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seminate as widely as possible one of thegreatest blessings to mankind, it is unneces-sary for me to say one word. Every medicalpractitioner knows what prejudices still existwith a large portion of the poorer classesagainst vaccination, and but for the reason-ing of their own medical attendant wouldnever consent to its performance : conse-

quently, if left to their own deliberation, withthe mere privilege of having their childrenvaccinated by an application to the uniondoctor, the recent Act would soon become adead letter. In this union nearly the wholeof the medical practitioners are under en-gagement with the board of guardians to

vaccinate, indiscriminately (within the dis-trict), at the sum of 2s. 6d. for every success-ful case ; which has had the effect of extend-ing the benefit to almost every individualnot previously vaccinated. Under thesecircumstances, it might be difficult to divinethe motive of this sagacious guardian, whomI will readily acquit of any charge ef huma-nity to the poor. It is sincerely to be hopedthat a matter of such vital importance to thecommunity, is not to be intrusted to a cliqueof men whom Nature, in her bountiful dis-pensations, surely never meant to becomelegislators for the public health. There are,however, at that board, gentlemen of intelli-gence and liberality, who should be remindedof the trust reposed in them as guardians ofthe rights and comforts of the poor, thattheir presence upon occasions of such impor-tance might defeat the mischievous schemesof men so utterly incompetent.

I trust I shall not have to report the con-firmation of the above proceeding, thoughenough has taken place to awake the atten-tion of the public; showing into whosehands are intrusted means of providing forthe health and lives of the community. I

am, Sir, yours most obediently, C.June 6, 1842.P.S.-The districts in this union are about

to be advertised for medical contracts, theresident practitioners having dared to exer-cise the right of opinion as to the inadequacyof the sums offered.

THE DUNMOW UNION.

To the Editor of THE LANCET.

SIR,—I have just accidentally noticed in amorning paper (the Advertiser) an adver-tisement from the guardians of the Dunmowunion (Essex). It appears that they havedivided an union, of about 18,500 inhabit-ants, into six medical districts, with an

aggregate allowance to the medical men of4001. per annum, exclusive of midwifery andvaccination. Amongst the items is one of2300 inhabitants and 44l., and 4100, 881.Now, although I am thoroughly aware

that such a scale as 201. per 1000 inhabit.ants is a great deal too little (only contrast

what the middle classes pay in the same dis.

trict), yet I believe that it is more than hasbeen often given under that not too humaneAct, the New Poor-law : therefore, if eventhat scale could be established by publicopinion, it would be something gained. Itherefore think that, by comparison, theDunmow guardians deserve some credit, Ishall be glad to see your opinion, or that ofyour readers, on the subject. Yours, &c.

NON-MEDICUS, CANTAB. M.A.London, June 4, 1842.P.S.—In a town where I passed my early

days the population was 1600, and the paro.chial medical man (under a milder law)received 401., which no one grumbled at.

CIRENCESTER MEDICAL UNION,

! To the Editor of THE LANCET.SIR,—I am an old practitioner in the neigh-

bourhood of Stroud, and although your con.stant and able advocacy in the cause ofmedical reform includes almost all that couldbe desired, I will take the liberty of makingone or two remarks.

If the present laws, which are intendedto regulate the practice of our profession,were acted on, one great evil and one kindof injustice would be removed, namely, thepractising of persons not only without anykind of qualification, but possessed of everysuch disqualification as an entire want ofgeneral and medical education could confer.But such individuals are not thus negativelyallowed to pursue this unlawful course, theyare positively upheld by the officers of

government, and especially elected and ap-pointed by them avowedly as fit and quali-fied to investigate the diseases of hundredsof our poor neighbours, and as " men ofscience" to administer remedies at the bed.side of suffering humanity. Such instancesare of frequent occurrence, in ourownneigh-bourhood they exist, and the extensive unionof Cirencester is medically provided for bythe appointment of such as are above de-scribed. A return should be asked for ofthe names and qualifications of all who areacting under the union : the College of Sur-geons, or the Apothecaries’ Company, shouldsend some person to examine the certificates,or medical local commissioners on the spotwho are themselves legally qualified, whocould constitute such examination withoutexpense. In the proposed Bill or Act ofParliament, certain qualifications are dis-

tinctly pointed out as the sine quâ MOM; andafterwards appears a proviso, " unless other-wise duly qualified," which must nullify allthat precedes. I remain, Sir, yours veryrespectfully, &c. &c. lVie;nrces,

Stroud, June 4, 1842.P.S.-It is feared that Sir J. Graham’s

proposed Bill may sanction and almostlegalize those unqualified persons who are atpresent acting under the unions.