Bleeding

It was always a subject of inquiry with me, who originated the system of

bleeding; and why it was that all kinds of doctors and physicians

persist in taking the stream of life itself from the system in order to

preserve life. In the case of General Washington, which I copy from the

Independent Chronicle of Boston, January 6, 1800, the editor, using

James Craik, physician, and Elisha C. Dick, physician, as authority,

st tes that a bleeder was procured in the neighborhood, who took from

the General's arm from twelve to fourteen ounces of blood, in the

morning; and in the afternoon of the same day was bled copiously twice.

More than that, it was agreed upon by these same enlightened doctors, to

try the result of another blood-letting, by which thirty two ounces more

was drawn. And, wonderful as it may seem to the intelligent mind at this

day, they state that all this was done without the slightest alleviation

of the disease. The world has become more wise now, and experience has

shown how ridiculous this system of bleeding was. What is true in regard

to the human system is also true in regard to the animal. There are some

extreme cases in which I have no doubt moderate bleeding might render

relief. But these cases are so few that it should only be suffered to be

done by an experienced, careful, and skillful person. My advice is,

avoid it in all cases where you can.