Genre:

Proceedings, Spoof

Subjects:

Disease, Meteorology, Medical Practitioners, Commerce, Sanitation

    Report of a meeting at the Apothecaries' Hall of medical practitioners who consider presenting a testimonial to the 'Clerk of the Weather' (i.e. the imaginary functionary supposed to control the weather) for his 'management'. According to Dr Twaddler, the weather has been so inclement as to be 'extraordinarily favourable to the [...] legitimate profits of the profession'. Twaddler goes on to remark on the 'few constitutions' that were 'insensible' of the rapid changes of temperature, and stresses that he does not 'grudge a share in the spoils' to his colleagues. Mr Honeyboy urges that the meeting should be cut short since 'time was fees' and 'they must make hay while the influenza shines upon them', an opinion which Dr Greed later echoes. Mr D'Emulgent, however, cautions that doctors should not do anything to increase 'prejudice against the profession', especially since people now feel that with healthier life-styles they could do without doctors. Mr Fitzabel agrees and advises that they should take people's money 'and be quiet'.