EDITORIAL. 
145 
* - . 
EDITORIAL. 
, HOG CHOLERA, SO-CALLED. 
What the disease, known to Americans by the above expressed 
title, may be, we do not at this time propose to enquire. It is 
sufficient for us to know that it is infectious and a scourge—two 
characteristics entitling it to a proper consideration at the hands 
of our Government. 
Great Britain, by a dearly-bought experience, has learned, du¬ 
ring the last few years, the bitter lesson that neglect of a danger- 
beset interest sooner or later ends in disaster. Buried in the 
graves of her pestilence-stricken cattle lie millions of dollars of 
her wealth, wrapped in the dead hopes of her once prosperous 
citizens. 
The advice, the warnings, the pleadings of the only intelli¬ 
gence which could have given protection from the impending 
danger, were unheeded by the powers that govern, while they 
listened to the seductive reasoning advanced by the zealous spirits 
which ever find ready access to willing rulers’ ears. 
The veterinary profession, instead of being first, was last con¬ 
sulted in the matter, and the fatal negligence cost England alone 
more money than will be expended on the science of medicine 
dnrino; another century. 
But has America profited by this experience, which our friends 
who suffered so kindly hold before us as danger signals? Have 
the United States acquired wisdom in observing the shoals that 
wrecked the cattle interest of our mother country ? Do our office¬ 
holders look beyond the influences which surround the vantage- 
ground of a re-election, and through the mists of politics see the 
disasters which their dereliction of duty invite ? Unhappily for 
our future, only negative answers can be vouchsafed to these 
queries. 
The teachings of experience and the repeated warnings of 
those who would give protection in the hour of need, have fallen 
alike unnoticed on the perceptions of our representatives. Some- 
