Genre:

Letter, Spoof

Subjects:

Medical Practitioners, Medical Treatment, Health, Physiology, Politics

    Written from the perspective of Charles Locock, who begins by asking for the 'honour of being your political attendant'. Explains that, since the Isle of Wight 'contains the maritime residence of our dear Sovereign, whose first physician-accoucheur I became in 1840', his claims will be clear. Offers his solutions to political problems that are described as though they are diseases. For example, he advocates an 'antiphlogistic policy, for avoidance of stimulants', although he regards the nation to be 'as well as could be expected'. Upholds Britain's repression of revolution and encouragement of progress as a 'prescription' that saved Europe, but explains that while he is 'in favour of emulcents' he does not rule out use of 'steel and Bacon's powder'. Declares his support for Edward G G S Stanley (14th Earl of Derby), whom he considers a better 'practitioner' than Henry J Temple (3rd Viscount Palmerston). Turning to the question of reform, he insists that 'there is so depressed an action of the national pulse, that I feel bound to wait for further symptoms' and opposes the infusion of 'fresh blood' because it 'savours too strongly of empiricism for toleration'. Concludes by offering to attend 'any consultations' at any time. This letter refers to Locock's unsuccessful attempt to contest the constituency of the Isle of Wight in the Conservative interest.