DR. EDWARDS' REPORT. 
157 
mount,) but also that of the revenue. Already certain drugs 
have been imported of a superior quality to those of the 
same kinds, heretofore, and at a cost of over 100 per cent, 
on former invoices. 
The immediate operation of a new law always occasions 
more or less dissatisfaction in the trade it effects, but I am 
credibly informed that regular dealers in drugs express 
themselves satisfied that the law is a necessary and benefi- 
cial one, and absolutely necessary to the prevention of in- 
justice and injury to the community. 
Dr. Bailey, whose position brings him in more direct con- 
tact with venders of drugs, will, from his own knowledge 
and experience, be enabled to inform you more parti- 
cularly on the several points involved in your inquiry. As 
far as the action of this office is concerned, the instructions 
of July Sth, 1848, have in all respects been confirmed. 
I am, sir, yours, very respectfully, 
C. W. Lawrence. 
Hon. Thomas O. Edwards, New York. 
As an example of the increasing popularity of the bill, I 
am credibly informed that the head of one of the principal 
importing houses in New York, who took strong ground 
against the passage of the law in question, and who spent 
the greater part of the past summer abroad in making pur- 
chases, establishing correspondence, &c , wrote home to his 
partners, that from what he had seen during his travel, of 
the manner drugs, medicines, and chemicals were prepared 
for the Amercan market, he was satisfied that our drug law, 
judiciously carried out, would not only be of great benefit 
to the community, but likewise to the honest importer and 
dealer. 
Many similar changes in sentiments could be detailed, if 
necessary. The only or greatest murmurings and disaffec- 
tion at present, are confined to a few commission houses, 
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