Genre:

Miscellaneous

Subjects:

Scientific Practitioners, Natural Philosophy, Heroism, Hospitals, Architecture, Mental Illness, Temperance, Patronage, Government, Epidemiology, Amateurism

    Relates that a statue of Benjamin Franklin stands in front of the public library, 'to whom it seems to be peculiarly dedicated', and observes: 'No person can be ignorant of the obligations which natural philosophy owes to him' (34). Gives an account of the hospital, and particularly of the care of the mentally ill patients. Recounts that one of the physicians attributes the large number of the latter, in comparison with Europe, to 'the abuse of spiritous liquors'. Reports the repeated 'ravages' of yellow fever in Philadelphia, and the steps taken to prevent recurrence. (35) Reflects that, while no one in America 'is sufficiently free from employment to give himself wholly to letters or the sciences', Philadelphia is a city which 'contains, more than any other, persons who cultivate them, and whose society is extremely interesting, when these subjects are discussed' (36).