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Introduction.
xi

literature. But let everyone adhere to their own profession; for it is evident to us that the Doctor knows no more about stay-making than we do of Sanscrit.

We are quite agreed upon the point, that "the use of stays and their present mode of construction require some consideration;" but our consideration should be how to improve them. Improve them? the Doctor seems to say; why, do away with them altogether. Pray do not hasten to your conclusion too rapidly, Sir. Supposing we adopted the same reasoning in reference to physic? We would say, and say truly, that it is nauseous to the palate, and upon the highest medical authority we might affirm that it is uncertain in its operation; but more than this, whatever Dr. A. prescribes, Dr. B. will condemn, and Drs. C. and D. will differ from both of them. Shall we then "throw physic to the dogs," knowing well, at the same time, that they will not take it? Nay, we know the profession too well; know that their skill, science, and experience will ever be invaluable to mankind; and know also that their only hope of maintaining their present honour­able position before the public is by adapting their