30 
EDITORIAL OBSERVATIONS. 
In reference to the first subject, we incline to the opinion 
that, although there is much that is ambiguous in the cases, 
and the nature of the disease complex, it is to the food or the 
water, or both, that we must look for the cause of the disease ; 
viewing it as a sanitary question. Rightly did Mr. Varnell 
more than hint that the peculiarity of the affection consti¬ 
tuted sufficient grounds for the instituting of pertinent and 
searching inquiries into its cause and nature. Of what use 
are investigations into those things with which all are 
familiar? Science has its mysteries, it is true, but these are 
not always unfathomable, and we are more than justified in 
seeking their solution, since by so doing we are often enabled 
to throw light on much that otherwise would have lain 
hidden, and thus extend its boundaries. Herein, too, is 
seen the advantage to be derived from scientific knowledge, 
as the untaught would have been contented to let events like 
these pass by unnoticed. 
The next subject to which we would advert are the several 
instances of poisoning by vegetables, communicated by 
Messrs. Fuller, Litt, Musgrave, Wallis, and others. Surely 
these are full of interest, although we have yet much to learn 
under this head. We think, however, alluding to what has 
been already stated, that we are in a fair way to clear up 
much that is at present unsatisfactory here. The occasional 
introduction of the effects produced by certain plants on 
animals, by Mr. Watson, assuredly shows the practical 
benefits that must arise from veterinary surgeons becoming 
acquainted with botany. 
The question of veterinary obstetrics was, we think, pretty 
well ventilated, it having called forth papers from several 
pens, some of them being now and then dipped a little too 
deep in the gall of personality. We regret that these mani¬ 
festations should take place, holding them to be opposed to 
those kindly feelings which ought to prevail in a community, 
while they are sure to engender a spirit subversive of all 
union. It is true there are times and seasons that call for 
truth being spoken freely and boldly, but it may be done 
without acerbity, and uncourteous language should never be 
