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SELF-Conservation acted from an innate Principle, most powerfully in∣clines all Creatures, especially Man∣kind, to a full Compliance with such Injunctions, as may best conduce thereunto; which being our chiefest Natural concern∣ment in point of Interest, as well as Duty, requires our utmost Endeavor in avoiding what may be prejudicial, and choosing what
may promote this, so just and necessary in∣tent: External Dangers hereupon Impres∣sing a deep sense of their destructive Events, do incessantly sollicite for suitable helps to rescue from those threatning Mischiefs, and by a more Cogent propensity all the Pow∣ers of Nature are set on work, and Medicine called in to assist with its Effectual Co-opera∣tion to oppugn Diseases, in order to an hap∣py Restoration to that State which suffered by reason of their Invasion. So then, Me∣dicine is commended to us as the proper Means whereby the proposed end of Sa∣nity may most probably be attained; to which application is naturally made in sick∣ness, from a well grounded confidence of its corresponding Efficacy, which good opinion of Physick, and the general conformity to those Primitive Dictates of Self-conservati∣on, give advantage and opportunity to very many of insinuating their zeal and forward∣ness to contribute towards the better satisfa∣ction of this obligation to Nature; and most people being easily convinced of the necessi∣ty incumbent on them to seek out for Help when seized by Sickness, and not discerning the Deceits of meer Pretenders to the Sci∣ence of Physick, from the real abilities of true Physicians, are upon this account fre∣quently misguided to imploy those who fru∣strate
the end of Medicines, and miserably disappoint their (otherwise regular) ten∣dency, to preserve themselves.
That this Delusion may no longer prevail in Affairs of such Consequence as Health and Life; I have essayed to distinguish be∣tween those who without requisite Qualifi∣cations undertake the Practice of Physick, and such whom Learning and Experience have accomplished for the accurate discharge of their Noble Profession. I shall under the notion of Empericks treat of the first sort; and however the term Emperick is notori∣ously known in respect of the vast* 1.1 swarm of them which pester all places, confidently pretending to Physick: yet to avoid mi∣stakes, I shall explain what I intend by it. I style him an Emperick, who, without consi∣deration of any rational Method undertakes to cure Diseases, whose frequent Periclitations (as he conceits) surpass the notional Theo∣ry of Physick, and his proof of Receipts seem to him more satisfactory then the Scholastick odd rules of practice: But what can be ex∣pected from such rude Experimentings, not respecting any Indications, or other circum∣stances very considerable in the right effect∣ing of a Cure? Who questions but that such Morbos Andabatarum more impugnantes, Proceeding blindfold to their attempts, must
inevitably err? Indeed the Empericks voice up their Experience, and think it an authen∣tick Diploma, capacitating them to practice Physick; I shall therefore enquire what Ex∣perience is, and then a right judgment may be made whether these answer their preten∣ces herein.
True Experience is constituted of Reason and Sense; for as a judicial observation of sensible Experiments produceth apt Theo∣rems, so thereby the Intellect forms Univer∣sal conceptions and essays their confirmation by repeated experimental Operations, whence issued what men call Science, together with all its eternal and immutable Truths; hence∣forth unquestionable by Sense, which having the Royal assent affixed to them are standing Laws not subject to future Censures: So then there is no cause why we should return to the first more rude and imperfect way, since the Science of Medicine is not only al∣ready invented and discovered, but adorned with intelligible Rules and Aphorisms, and thereby improved to general use. The Ex∣perience therefore of these Empericks being altogether void of Reason and dissentaneous from the known Maxims of Medicine is meerly the effect of sense, and consequent∣ly bruitish; for the enumeration of their pre∣sumed successes because of this defect of
Principles, is not argumentative to con∣clude an attainment of Experience, in re∣gard that Reason did not make due collecti∣on from those tryals and periclitations; but these in their practice act not unlike some who take pains rudely to heap stones together, designing thereby to erect an artificial Structure, the event being far o∣therwise; for the higher the heap ad∣spires, the neerer is its downfal and ruine: And so when the Empericks multiply their inartificial Experiments to meliorate their knowledg, and to acquire experience, fruit∣lesness attends their labors, and destru∣ction those who confide in their promised experience: They in the mean time who have the luck to be the A B C of the Em∣pericks first attempts, and patiently submit to their Embrio experiments run no small hazard, when their best grown Endeavors prove Molas-like, unshapen, and monstrous Births.
It is confessed that the advantages to Physick have been very considerable upon the account of dissatisfaction with some old Tenents, whereupon just occasions of further search and inquiry were admini∣stred to make new and more useful disco∣veries; but yet I cannot allow the infe∣rence by some late Writers in favor of
the Vulgar Experimenters, from hence de∣duced, as if because the Medicinal Science by successive discoveries was so much im∣proved, a through alteration of what re∣mains, seemed no less necessary to its compleatment and perfection; and there∣fore Empericism ought to be encouraged as the likeliest means to advance this hopeful work, for the consequence is al∣together illogical, and fallacious to con∣clude from some particular defects in Phy∣sick, that the whole Art is thereupon im∣pleadable of the same misprision of insuf∣ficiency and uncertainty; and that rea∣soning equally absurd, which pleads for the Empericks to be countenanced as if their experimentings might very much further this pretended Reformation in Phy∣sick: the new Doctrines are so far from designing the subversion of the ancient foundations, that they appear considera∣ble additions* 1.2 confirming and establish∣ing them, and they who have been pro∣sperous in making discoveries, did not in order to their scrutiny devoid themselves
of all artificial helps, but proceeded un∣der the conduct of firme and allowed principles to their succesful disquisitions, nay were it granted that not only every Age (as is abundantly evident) but each person should take notice of something before unobserved, yet would not these hereby ruine the settled constitution of the Medicinal Science, which notwithstand∣ing all such successes, is still permanent and unshaken: indeed many who applaud their Service, have troubled themselves ra∣ther to question Opinions in Physick, which are conjectural and the Product of Fancy, then well formed Aphorisms drawn im∣mediatly from sensible observation on which the Science of Physick is chiefly founded: and to this purpose, not a few have mis∣placed their pains in examining and dispu∣ting the Hypotheses of Hippocrates, Galen, and their Disciples about the Humors, Qualities, and the like Sentiments of those Authors who thought fit thereby to express their Conceptions, if any quarrel with those notions, they may take the same liberty of substituting others more agreeable to the Phaenomena of Nature; but the substantials of Physick are not al∣tered by the various dresses wherein they appear suitable to every Age.
As for the Empericks fitness to enter∣prise this pretended renovation of Physick, there seems to be no sufficient ground for any such expectation because they in their experimentings wanting directive precepts, can make no true judgment of their performances; from whence also no Rule can be formed as their natural re∣sult: they who would become Physicians are not educated as the raw Lacedemonian Souldiers were wont to be, first learning to fight in the dark, being emboldned to de∣sperate attempts by this initiation in night service; for gross ignorance is so far from accomplishing to attain the greatest diffi∣culties in Physick, that it utterly incapaci∣tates for such undertakings. When I have given an account of the several sorts of Empericks, their inabilities to advance Physick, may be easily apprehended: of which in the next place.
[ 1] The first sort of Empericks are such who try accidental and chance experiments on the diseased, not having any sufficient ground of perswasion that the Medica∣ments thus proved are proper: it may seem strange that any who pretend to Reason, should after this manner sacrifice to For∣tune, * 1.3 and yet they cannot be numbred whom good luck and presumptuous hopes of
success encourage to give Physick: the business is not so much, how likely or contrary the applications are to the Dis∣ease, if a Cure is wrought thereby; and I will not deny but that some of these are very prosperous by the use of Medicines, not reduceable to any known Rules of Art; if the reason is demanded, I know not how to avoid the attributing of their successes to any other power then the Infernal Spi∣rits assistance: the Divines term this an implicite compact, for that person (as a reverend and late Writer notes) Who ap∣plies the Creatures to those ends and uses, to which either by its own propensity or by God's institution it was never inclined, is at length taken in the snare of prestigious and diabolical delusion: And the excel∣lent Matthias Mairhofer is of the same judgment; Quando aliquis assequitur ef∣fectum propositum non adhibendo causas le∣gitimas & legitimas causarum conditiones licet sciens & deliberate non expetat Dia∣boli auxilium, dat tamen operam in procu∣rando effectu quibusdam occultis dubiisque modis, qui à Viris bonis merito judicantur symbolum Diabolicae operationis clam inter∣cedentis (says he) When any person de∣signs the attainment of any effect without respect to natural Causes, and not heeding
the conditions necessary to its production, although he doth not wittingly, and with de∣liberation implore the Divels help, yet working by occult and dubious waies he is most deservedly censured by all good men as guilty of a private and more secret Cove∣nant with the Divel to co-operate with him. I cannot distinguish between Charms and other known and solemn methods of Sorcery and Witchcraft, and these no less prestigious and hellish practises; in a business of such consequence, I am willing to speak plain, that the busie and officious people of both Sexes may understand their adven∣ture, when either out of an ambition to gain the popular repute of doing good, or for profits sake they give Medicines at random, not being able either to satisfie themselves or others concerning the true Vertues there∣of, and the reason of application; if what is thus given, succeeds not, then must they answer (at least to God) the death of the Patient, if the party recovers, then is there just cause of suspition that the evil Feind is their Adjutor with his long expe∣rienced skill, being willing to cure the Bo∣dy of one to destroy the Soul of another: When Learned and Experienced Physi∣cians are at hand, what occasion is there that these Empericks should hazard their
best part, and so highly injure themselves in hopes of doing good to others, or any people be so deluded, as to let the Devil practise upon them, and even possess them with health.
The common plea of these Empericks in respect of the hazard of their fortuitous experimentings is altogether vain, they perhaps thought the Medicaments by them thus used at random to be innocent and safe; but I must rejoyn that not only time and opportunity is lost by the interpo∣sition of these Empericks with their suppo∣sedly harmless Medicines, and Nature thereby suffers an interruption in her me∣thodical course, on both which Physicians most judiciously do lay great stress but granting that the things in respect of their nature are not deadly, yet being indirectly given, the event may possibly prove them such: for when a little Saphron (as a good Observator writes) did immediatly kill, a familiar Clyster presently occasioned death, a little Oyl of Roses (which I have seen) threatned the same fate, and an opiate Collyrium (if we credit Avicen∣na) straight-ways depriv'd of life; I say, when the safest Medicines are by these Empericks unduly and at all peradventure applied, though contrary to the true and
genuine indications of cure, they are so far inexcusable upon the account of such ha∣zards, as that they deserve the severest censure, who kill with reputedly safe Me∣dicines. Well then, there is no reason why these Empericks should make a Lot∣tery of mens healths, and in hope of a prize or cure, hazard Natures stock; for in this business there is not only an extra∣ordinary number of blanks, meer negati∣ons of advantage and success, but infinite positive evils destructive, and poysonous to mens bodies, and these are most frequently drawn by the unfortunate Empericks: Ptolemeus therefore (as a good Historian affirms) not upon a much different occa∣sion, wisely answered, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, h. e. There ought not to be the same hazard of mens bo∣dies as of Dice. I shall conclude this Head with a weighty saying of a late Wri∣ter, Fortuita nullo modo censenda sunt re∣media; Chance applications deserve not the very name of Remedies.
[ 2] 2. They are also Empericks who make experiment of any Medicine or Re∣ceipt from an Opinion only of its suffici∣ency and fitness to cure, as chance Peri∣clitations prompted on the others, so credulity spurs on these to practise Phy∣sick,
who have no other direction then what proceeds either from Fancy or Hi∣story. Geber gives us an apposite descri∣ption of the first; Qui animam habent opinantem phantasiam quamlibet, & quod credunt se verum invenisse, fantasticum est totum, à ratione devium, errore plenum & semotum à principiis naturalibus, says he, Such persons who are wholly guided by fan∣cy, when they please themselves with an Opinion of true discoveries, they are meer∣ly deluded and run into error, wanting the safe conduct of Reason and natural prin∣ciples to be the sure foundation on which they ought to build their knowledg. But the Profession of Physick requires the most improved judgment to a right manage∣ment and exercise of it, and by no means is the proper business of Fancy, which being uncapable of deliberation cannot weigh all necessary considerations in order to a regular cure.
'Tis true, that the operations of Fancy have oftentimes appeared very powerful, so that many wonderful effects owe their production chiefly to their energy; but yet I deny that the strong conceit of any person can naturally impower any Medi∣cine with new vertues to eradicate the Disease for which it is to this end direct∣ed:
the true Physicians endeavor to beget a good confidence in their Patiens of their Abilities, the properness of the Me∣dicaments prescribed by them, but the de∣sign is only to compose the Spirits that they may act uniformly in promoting the effica∣cy of the Remedies, whereas these Empe∣ricks possess the fancies of the sick by the prevalency of their imaginations,* 1.4 and hope thereby to work something answerable to the impression made upon them; and I question not but that the effect will re∣semble its cause, and the presumed cure also prove phantastical and imaginary, yet by all possible means do the Empericks strive to credit these Operations of fancy, per∣swading people to obey the strange inspi∣rations and secret impulses, which at any time either they suggest, or else happen to those who give themselves up to follow such delusions: did these consider that their fancies are frequently as diseased as their own, or Patients bodies admitting im∣pressions according to the acuteness or greatness of the Morbifick invasion, they would seek to physick for help, rather then profess it by the tutorage of fancy, or be matriculated in Bedlam before they at∣tempt such kind of practices: I shall pro∣duce a sad example to caution others; a
Revelation was communicated to one being indisposed, that she must in order to her recovery drink the decoction of an Hearb growing in such a place; but alas! the hearb proved Hemlock, and that impulse of fancy dispatched the Patient to another World.
I pass over the fond conceit of many who pretend familiarity with their Genii or good Angels, from whom, as they relate, they learn effectual Secrets to re∣medy most Diseases; for since that the events are not answerable to such extraor∣dinary communications, there is just cause of suspition that these Empericks either most pitifully cheat themselves by their easie perswasion, or others by imposture.
By History, I intend Medicines learn'd by reading and report, for the Empericks do sometime study Receipt-books to stock themselves with Medicines against most Diseases, and when they have proceeded so far, they are impatient for an opportu∣nity, to give an account of their ripe abili∣ties; if also a Receipt or Medicine is well vouched, many think that they may safe∣ly experiment its admirable vertues, and as in some places the execution of the Pri∣soner precedes his Tryal, so it is here, for these being fully perswaded that such Se∣crets
are not inferiour to the commendati∣on of them, make proof, and afterwards (oftentimes too late) reason about their fitness for the Disease and Patient, be∣cause so many employ themselves, their friends and purses, to procure or purchase Receipts or Secrets in Physick: I shall en∣quire how far not only such as are ordina∣ry, but the extraordinary Arcana may enable to practice, and if an ordinary mea∣sure of skill by the help of directions and cautions in the use of either may be suffi∣cient for persons not indiscreet.
Were it not confessed that Receipts do little in acute Diseases, I would easily prove it, for almost every hour varies the case, Nature being in a continual Agony to extricate her self by all possible means from the fury of the Distemper, and so∣licitously finding out the most expeditious way, respecting the peccant matter and parts chiefly affected, to free her self from imminent danger, in which sharp dispute sometimes she gains and sometimes loses, altering accordingly all the concomitating Symptomes, so that she must be traced in all her anomalous motions, in which hurry what place can there be for a set Receipt most commonly fixed to some general in∣tent? Neither in Chronical Diseases can
ever the extraordinary Arcana be at the same time Physician and Medicine, for such Diseases are never at a stand, but (if not interrupted) do regularly observe their encrease, state, and gradual declination, in which several tendencies though obscure and almost indiscernable, Nature is yet highly concerned to promote their me∣thodical completion▪ and if any defect or obstruction, either delaies or stops this orderly course, it is the Physicians busi∣ness by his experienced skill according to that exigency to remove all impediments, and effectually assist Nature in the due pro∣secution of this hopeful transaction; but that these Arcana should be so fitted to the successive alterations of Diseases, as by the same operation to carry on diffe∣rent Agencies, seems to me as improbable as the doctrine of elective Catharticks; I rather think that the Patrons of these Se∣crets will urge their Universal power, as if they were Plenipotentiaries, not tied up to a strickt observance of any either pri∣vate or publick instructions, but left at liberty to act according to the exigency of affairs, and the truth is, these need no Physicians if they can rationalize their no∣ble Arcana; but since that these pleaders for such like conceited Remedies cannot
produce one Medicine to verifie and con∣firm their Assertion, we are not obliged to give them credit:* 1.5 Fabritius ab Aqua∣pendente gives us another account, Nihil magis medicos in facienda medicina precla∣ros reddat, quam distincta differentiarum intelligentia cujusque morbi, & ea accom∣modata ad singulas remediorum admini∣stratio, ubi indicationes potissimum atten∣dendae, says he, The right distinction of diseases, and apt prescriptions according to their several indications, do chiefly ad∣vance the repute of Physicians. But how can these Empericks by the help of their Receipts and Arcana, and the common di∣rections about the Dose, the manner and time of giving them, and such like circum∣stances be enabled to know the Disease to which their Secrets are appropriated, di∣stinguishing it from others, which in most of the Symptomes agree with it, and ex∣actly discerning the strange intimate com∣plications, of great consequence in the per∣forming of a Cure. These Empericks with their noble Arcana the lawful issue of Physicians, but unhappily nursed a∣broad, seem not unlike him who having procured the Pensils of an excellent Lim∣ner did conceit himself capacitated thereby to draw Pictures to the life as the Painter
was wont to do, whose they were, but upon tryal, he quickly found his error, for it was the direction of the Pensil that produced such admirable Pieces of Work, wherein lay his deficiency: So in Physick, an igno∣rant person may have Receipts and noble Medicaments which avail nothing without an artificial application by them not ac∣quirable.
3. The most plausible part of the Em∣pericks rely on their observation of what doth well or ill under their hand, with a resolution to prosecute or reject according to their success or miscarriage, these herein presume to justle with true Physi∣cians, but should people be as prodigal of their Lives as these are of their skill, or had they full license for their accomplish∣ment to depopulate whole Countreys, yet cannot they make any certain and infal∣lible observation to be a sufficient Directo∣ry to them in their future undertakings: * 1.6 I grant indeed that these Empericks do rudely imitate their preceding Experi∣ments, with what hopes of success I know not; for should we admit that one of their Receipts or Medicaments wrought a Cure on a Patient, yet why should it have the same effect on another, who it may be differs in many respects more from the per∣son
so cured, then another Disease from that; and therefore such a Preparation or Receipt may by the same rule as well re∣spect distinct Diseases as distinct Persons: Whereas a right practice of Physick con∣sists in a due appropriation of Medicines or methods to the several constitutions and conditions of the sick; if the same bo∣dy every moment somewhat varies from what it was, and the repetition of the same Medicine upon this account is not alike beneficial, what probable expectation can be had from the same application to all who labour under the same Disease, which more disagree amongst themselves, then the Clocks in London and Paris. The Dialogue in Plato between Socrates and Phaedrus is very pertinent: Socrat. Si quis dicat, ego quidem illa scio corpori admovere quibus & calescat pro arbitrio meo & fri∣geat, & vomitus & dejectiones perfician∣tur & hujusmodi plurima teneo, quibus cognitis & medicum me esse profiteor, & alium quemlibet medicum me facere posse dico, quid alium responsurum autumas? Phaedr. Nihil aliud quàm percunctaturum nunquid etiam sciat, quibus, quando & quousque singula horum sint adhibenda, quod si nesciat, necessum est eum insanire qui quod ex aliquo medicorum audierit
quicquam vel in medelas nonnullas incide∣rit à se probatas neque artis aliquid intelli∣gat medicum se evasisse putet, h. e. Socrat. If any person says I can dexterously apply those things to the body which at my plea∣sure shall heat or cool it, and I understand Emeticks, Catharticks, and other ways of evacuation, besides very many Medi∣cines, by which I am not only able to pro∣fess Physicks, but be a fit Instructer or Tutor of others; what thinkest thou a stan∣der by would answer? Phaedr. I suppose he would enquire of him whether he knew to whom, when, and how long those Re∣medies might be useful, and if he satisfies not these Questions and Doubts, although he fancies himself to be an expert Physici∣an, yet seems he rather to be besides him∣self and distracted, who adventures to give Physick by the help only of some Receipt-books, or a few Medicines learn'd from Physicians, not being acquainted with the very Rudiments of the medicinal Science.
Besides, it many times falls out that these Empericks in their strict noting of the events of their Medicines, do greatly mistake in not rightly distinguishing be∣tween a true effect and Cure performed by their vaunted Receipts and the succesful labour of Nature, to be with the same
pangs delivered of their Medicine and the Disease for which it was appointed: That deplorate Diseases may be sometimes cured by such desperate irritations is altogether undisputable; as also that these* 1.7 igno∣rant Practitioners do commonly use such Medicaments, but let the World judge what will be the issue, if the Empericks not apprehending how it came to pass that the Patient recovered, shall be invited and encouraged to give the like Medicines as having their Probatum annexed to them. Neither can these Empericks tell when their Arcana, or Receipts infallibly cure, by which the fierceness of the Dis∣ease may possibly awhile be check'd, and the raging symptomes so becalmed as if all was well, but soon after like flames sup∣pressed, the Distemper breaks out again with more violence. I shall instance in the POX, for which every Emperick pretends a secret Receipt, and if Noctur∣nal pains cease, the Gonorrhea stops, and the virulent Ulcers heal, 'tis immediatly concluded that the Patient is rescued from that tyrannical Disease, and the excel∣lency of the Medicine is cry'd up, as if it was powerful enough to extirpate cer∣tainly this foul Distemper in all who shall make tryal of it, but within a few months
at least a year or two, it becomes too ma∣nifest that the Cure at first was only palli∣ated, in regard that it returns so notably improved, when many hundreds, thus a∣bused, are witnesses to the truth of this Accusation; I wonder with what face these Empericks can pretend from such disappointments of their Patients to an observation, emulating the true Physi∣cians Collection* 1.8 made by Reason and Experience.
Thus much for the brief discovery of the several sorts of Empericks, who not∣withstanding their insufficiency, would yet be tolerated and have full liberty (as they phrase it) to do what good they can; 'tis not to be questioned but that if such an universal license should be granted, these Empericks would more boldly im∣pose on the credulous people: When I consider the mischief which would un∣doubtedly happen in Trade, if all persons at pleasure without serving an Apprentice∣ship or allowance of the respective Com∣pany or Corporation, might set up and enjoy the same Priviledges as those who were trained up in those Callings, this being the directest way to ruine Trade; since that hereby Private Interest is ad∣vanced above the Publick; he who hath
but half an eye may foresee of what ill con∣sequence this Universal indulgence will be in Physick of an higher concernment then Trade; in this he who miscarries doth chiefly ruine his own Fortune, but in the other by how much more unfit the per∣son is who practices, by so much more hazard and danger attends all who have to do with him: I cannot resemble the issue of such a toleration in Physick to any thing better then to the Ocean which rests not because of its community, either one Bil∣low continually dashes against another, or many conspire together to croud them∣selves into a publick storm: So such li∣berty to practice Physick will as surely pro∣duce rude clashings amongst those who so earnestly press for it, raise dismal storms endangering the* 1.9 peoples lives, and ship∣wrack the most excellent Science of Phy∣sick.
I very much wonder that the honorable Mr. Boile* 1.10 should so much favor the pra∣ctise of Empericks, he thinks that the knowledg of Physicians may not be inconsi∣derably encreased, if men were a little more curious to take notice of the observations and experiments suggested by the practice of Midwives, Barbers, old Women and Em∣pericks, and the rest of that illiterate Crew,
&c. And in another place wills That we disdain not the remedies of such illiterate people only because of their being unac∣quainted with our Theory of Physick, &c. Which expressions seem very much to plead for free practice, for should Mid∣wives, Barbers, old Women, Empericks, and the rest of that illiterate crew being un∣acquainted with our Theory of Physick, be restrained, then might Physicians miss of that not inconsiderable encrease of know∣ledg promised; verily the accomplish∣ments of Physicians are very mean in the opinion of this honorable person, that may not be inconsiderably encreased by such in∣ferior and improbable additions: but the case of Physicians as yet is not so despe∣rate, as that to prevent sinking they should grasp at small rotten sticks and straws to be their treacherous support: did I not believe that these lines fell as a casual blot from this honorable persons Pen, I should more strictly examine them.
And since that not only a toleration to practice Physick is so much desired, but an equal liberty to introduce new Maxims into the Medicinal Science, most agreeable to the Experiments of these Empericks, I shall enquire whether hereby Physick may be advanced, and this request may be
gratified by Authority, as conducing to the publick good. I am so much a latitu∣dinarian as to conceive that learned and experienced Physicians are not obliged to credit the Dictates of any Author against their own experience, not as if I supposed that the private judgment of such dissen∣ters did ballance the authority of a continu∣ed and general approbation: but yet none acting like rational creatures ought to shut their eyes against new discoveries, when they have past a severe examination by competent Judges: however the Empe∣ricks and others alike ignorant ought not from this liberty very cautiously used by those who only may lay claim to it, to fancy an enjoyment of the same priviledg, for should such unskilful persons have free leave to publish their rude Conceptions, they would vent horrid & destructive no∣tions suitable to their erroneous and pre∣posterous actings, neither would there be any end of their absurd opinions, both in respect of multiplication and possibility of conviction; for these illiterate Empericks will* 1.11 endeavor passionately to maintain their Sentiments right or wrong, whose
zeal is the chiefest argument in the propa∣gation of their absurd perswasions: it was a good Law which commanded that all monstrous Births should immediatly be de∣stroyed, as well to prevent their encrease least also like Conceptions should be for∣med by means of such impressions on the imagination of teaming Women; and there is as much reason that the monstrous products of the Brain should by some pub∣lick Edict or censure be forthwith stifled to hinder their spreading and progress, con∣sidering also how much they may influ∣ence in the practice of Physick, to the great prejudice of Mankind.
I shall in the next place give some rea∣sons which incline such a multitude to in∣vade the Profession of Physick,* 1.12 who if the restraint was taken off, would be num∣berless.
1. The Excellency of Physick in∣vites so many Empericks to pretend to it, even as the value of Gold makes it more subject to adulteration, when vile and ignoble Mettals are not regarded; the greatest Monarchs and Potentates in the world have esteemed the knowledg of Medicine an addition to their Majesty and glory, and the sublimest Wits and most enlarged Souls exercising themselves here∣in,
find copious matter adequate to their contemplation; the meanest people also are ambitious to improve that common na∣tural principle inclining them to a desire of knowledg, apprehending that although they cannot reach the highest and most obscure truths in Physick, they yet may gain as much skill as will be necessary to their practice: such indeed is the abstruse∣ness of Physick, that few have by their indefatigable scrutiny attained to so much perfection, as that all doubts were satis∣fied and uncertainties insured; some my∣steries surpassing and baffling humane rea∣son and diligence: the Empericks taking notice of these difficulties which puzzle the most Learned, immediately conclude that they are in the same condition with the eminentest Physicians, being as much Admirers of what is concealed from both as they, and thinking themselves equally capacitated to understand vulgar notions in Physick as the others: I say, the most ignorant of the Empericks despair not in a shorter time then Trallianus his six months to commence lucky Conjecturers; and if to profess the knowledg of nothing, in respect of the great improbability of a right Conception is the sum of Ingenuity, and the shortest cut to true knowledg,
these have good hopes to deserve Promo∣tion and be as soon Graduates in Ignorance as any. Thus do the Empericks insinu∣ate themselves into the common peoples favour, who not being able to understand the fallacy, entertain their suggestions as Oracles, and are willing to be deceived; but although the excellency of the Medi∣cinal Science may be one cause why so ma∣ny desire to profess it, yet there is reason why hereupon they should be discouraged, since that they are insufficient to arrive at an ordinary measure of knowledg in these profound Mysteries: I might instance in the several parts of Physick, but having occasion elsewhere to treat of them, I pass to the next Reason of the Empericks adventuring to practice; which is,
2. Because the Magistrates either want power to punish unskilful Practisers of Physick, or are remiss in the execution of penal Laws upon them: So soon as Bar∣barism was expeld the Confines of any Nation, and Government civilized mens unnatural Cruelty into a peaceable De∣portment to their Superiors and an amica∣ble Society, respecting the good and wel∣fare of each other; Lawes were timely enacted to restrain the dangerous attempts of ignorant Practitioners, but yet Phy∣sicians
in all Countreys have not cause∣lesly complained that there still wants an∣other Law to command the due execution of the former. I shall not set down the Arguments which moved the High-Court of Parliament heretofore to guard both the People and Physicians with fitting Laws from the Injuries of the numberless illiterate Pretenders to the Profession of Physick; for the passing of those Acts imports the Grand Concernment and un∣questionable necessity thereof for the pub∣lick good: and therefore since it appears that those Laws by reason of some cir∣cumstantial omissions or defects, cannot be effectually observed according to their true intent, we may easily believe that the present Parliament being no less care∣ful of the Nations Welfare then their Pre∣decessors, especially in an Affair of such Consequence, will either vigorate the old Statutes with convenient Power and En∣largements, or make new to prevent such notorious Abuses as are now without re∣dress practised on his Majesty's Subjects.
In regard the People claim Liberty to employ whom they please, the Empericks as well as Physicians, I shall enquire whe∣ther they ought to enjoy such freedom;* 1.13 Fabritius Hildanus thinks it unfit that
they use whom they best approve, the ig∣norant as well as learned and lawfull Pra∣ctitioners; Non licet unicuique (quod non∣nulli objicere solent) corium suum cuicun∣que libuerit venale offerre, I know not whe∣ther the Law will adjudg them felones de se, who take destructive Medicaments from the hands of others being well informed of the hazard they run therein, as those who buy and use poysons with in∣tent to destroy themselves; indeed the first is a more solemn Conspiration then the latter, but they differ not in the event, for thereby the King loses a Subject and the Common-wealth a Member; and how∣ever these do not seem to design their own Deaths, yet when they take the directest course to it, what good interpretation can well be put upon such practises; it is at least the highest imprudence wilfully to run upon death in hopes of life.* 1.14 That all persons ought to be just to themselves will be easily granted, this being their pattern in relation to others in their converse, and wherein can they better express their sense of this Duty, then in the use of the best and likeliest means to rescue them from Diseases? they then seem dishonest to themselves who intrust their lives in the hands of those who more certainly
kill then cure, whereupon the Law which restrains the Empericks doth chiefly re∣spect the people, that the opportunities of their harming themselves might be taken away, and all mischief thereby preven∣ted.
Why the World should so fondly dote on these illiterate, impudent and cruel Practisers, as to prefer them before the most learned, modest and experienced Pro∣fessors of Physick, he cannot imagine who is unacquainted with the Stratagems* 1.15 by which they insinuate themselves into the peoples esteem. It is my next Task to discover the Empericks Practises, and to strip them naked of their plausible pre∣tences.
1. The Empericks undertake to cure in∣fallibly all Diseases in all Persons; if we can think that certain news of recovery can be welcom to a dying man, surely the Author of those comfortable tydings ex∣ceedingly merits an interest in him who is to partake of such an unexpected and va∣luable a benefit as Life: so then the Em∣perick hereupon is entertained, for great expectations do naturally beget confidence, and self-love works easily a through con∣formity to multiplied assurances of an e∣scape from imminent danger; Pliny hath
a very remarkable passage to this purpose, Adeo est cuique pro se sperandi blanda dul∣cedo ut cuique se medicum profitenti statim credatur cum sit majus periculum in nullo mendacio majus, says he, Every sick person doth so please and satisfie himself with hopes of a restoration to health, that he readily commits his body to the care of any one who pretends that he is a Physician, whereas there is no such cheat in the world as this. However if these universal Un∣dertakers can screw themselves into e∣steem with their Patients by promising what is incredible, not within their, nay, many times any humane power, yet they hereby lay a sure foundation of Popularity on which they build steadfast hopes that either by well wishing Friends and Relati∣ons, or else by the Patients themselves they shall be called in, that it may appear upon tryal whether they fail in their secu∣red performance: so that the contri∣vance is subtle, for if these Empericks are not employed, what ever they pre∣sume to say, speaks them to be no less then what they pretend, there being no publick or sufficient conviction of their vain boastings; And if by the Artifice of promising a certain Cure they gain such an opinion of their Abilities as to be em∣ployed
then (be the event what it will) their design of being entertained is thereby compassed.
The Digression may be pardonable, if before I take a prospect of the Empericks sufficiency to carry on his rash underta∣kings, I spend a little time in explicating what is commonly understood by incura∣ble Diseases: by the Learned, Diseases are reckoned incurable in respect of them∣selves, the Patient and the Physician. Of the first kind are those Diseases which tincture the very rudiments of our nature and being, which are conceived, born and grow up with us; he therefore who ima∣gines himself to be such an expert Engi∣neer as to turn the Microcosm at his plea∣sure, must have some unmoveable point whereon to fix his Instrument; who ever (I mean) attempts a total alteration of any mans Constitution and Nature, must suppose some parts free by whose assistance he may perform his engagement; but the deep stain of hereditary Diseases not only antidating the Moors blackness, who are not unlike the Europeans some minutes after they are born, but being as insepa∣rable as that from its subject, cannot by the Ocean of Pharmancy be washed out and changed: I might to this add the Plague,
at least that which is most fierce and se∣vere, which being the Rod of the Almigh∣ty to punish mens Impieties, cannot by any medicinal means be frustrated of its designed execution, there being a vast disproportion between natural Remedies and supernatural Causes, and hereupon the same Remedies being divinely impow∣red, prove effectual to rescue some, when left to their own vertues are baffled and become unsuccesful: I urge not this as if I conceived that the same Medicines or me∣thods were applicable to all seaz'd by the Pestilence with good hopes of the same benefit, for in this sad Disease, as well as o∣thers, respect must be had to all considera∣tions necessary to a regular cure; and hence it is that men are not only com∣manded but encouraged to use all proper and lawful means upon the account of the frequent reprieves which the great Majesty of Heaven issues out When and to Whom he pleases: But fearing least I should trans∣gress the limits of my intended Digressi∣on, though I might produce many more instances, yet I shall pass to the Patients in respect of whom some diseases are incu∣rable; And I must in the first place very much blame the carelesness and inadver∣tency of some Patients, who enjoying for
a long time good and uninterrupted health, when they find themselves only indisposed, the disease as it were by stealth insensibly creeping on them, are not awa∣kened by such distant Alarms to prevent their enemies incursion upon them, by which imprudent delay the Distemper takes deep root, and the fomes or Minera being inconsiderable at first, quickly enlargeth it self to the circumference of the whole bo∣dy, so that no part neither internal nor external is free from its insinuation, till like Ivy it inevitably throws down its kind support.
The impatience and refractoriness also of the Sick make their Diseases incurable, some of them choose rather to sink under a Chronical disease, then submit to a metho∣dical cure, being more weary of necessary preparations then the Grand Seigneour was of the tedious tuning the Instruments, when as a piece of high Entertainment He was invited to hear a most harmonious Consort of Musick: Did these Patients rightly apprehend the strict regard that must be had to the several intricacies of complicated Diseases, and that very often contrary Symptomes are to be dealt withal at the same time, and many other like circumstances, they might (I doubt not)
more securely and speedily be recovered from their Distempers, otherwise even upon this account incurable. Thus the Leprosie, Quartane Agues, the Epilepsy, most Consumptions, the Stone, Dropsy and Gout, and many others of the same fami∣ly (if not hereditary) are chiefly reme∣diless by reason of the Patients obstinacy and irregularities.
Besides the tenderness and natural weakness of some persons incapacitating them to struggle with very slight and easie distempers, much less with those which are more formidable and dangerous, makes their condition helpless, when robuster tem∣pers affected with the same disease, by the help of convenient Medicaments may be cured, To conclude this digression, Dis∣eases may be incurable in respect of Physi∣cians, who by reason of the* 1.16 inextricable difficulties which occur in the discovery of the Disease and parts primarily suffering thereby cannot make a true judgment, and this may sometimes be the case of those who are most able, not by reason of any deficiency in them, but either from an ill re∣lation or account from the sick, or a strong and perplexing obscurity in the Disease; but however true Physicians may (though rarely) in such obscure cases be nonplus'd
or mistake, yet they will not be over con∣fident and secure, acting as if they fully un∣derstood how to direct exactly what was most fit to be done, as in other known dis∣eases: This excuse will not serve the turn of our Emperical Conservators, who want skill to distinguish between curable and in∣curable diseases, engaging to cure both a∣like. Let Paracelsus who knew very well their devices give the reason; saith he, Quaestus proprii studio aegros suscipiunt om∣nes quicunque demum offeruntur ipsis un∣decunque,* 1.17 h. e. Hopes of gain prompts them on to undertake all who are willing to put themselves into their hands; for let the Disease be what it will (that's not the business) the caution Money not only re∣wards the boldness of their enterprize, but secures their Patient to them; and besides the advantage made by the Empericks of their Physick, good store of which must be bought in order to a cure, when the Pa∣tient is well they expect a* 1.18 quantum me∣ruit, A reward answerable to their paines and cure; If they chance to die, they are then satisfied by the gain of their Medi∣cines sold at an extraordinary rate▪
As these Empericks wanting the eye of Reason difference not a Mountain from a Molehil, a great Disease from an inconsi∣derable Disorder, so do they often respe∣cting their advantage use the microscope in the discovery of diseases, and what is as a mite almost imperceptible; being thus greatned is rendred most formidable, hence it comes to pass that every stich, qualm or fancy of infection, is esteemed the most dismal effect occasioned by some of the unheard of epidemical Ferments.
As for this latter stratagem, although the fear into which these Empericks put their Patients doth so far prevail as that they immediatly are employed, in regard there is such an evident testimony of their skill in discovering a disease not observable by any others, yet most commonly it hap∣pens that what was even nothing when the Emperick began to tamper, by his indirect courses proves dangerous, and then what remains, but that he make it answer his first opinion of it least he be discredited in not rightly apprehending the Disease.
2. The Empericks pretend cheapness as a prevalent argument inducing people to employ them, the poor shall be cured gratis to be decoys to some of better fashion, who being crazy even force their diseases to a
composition, and make them accept of little least they should have no allowance at all, the whole gang of these ignorant undertakers lay very great stress on this project, being sensible that a cheap Mar∣ket will never want Customers, and right∣ly apprehending how much the meer pre∣tence of Charity will commend them, e∣specially when they publish their zeal and affection for the publick good, beyond their own profit. I must confess that the Empericks herein have the advantage of the true Professors of Physick, who (as affairs now stand) cannot be so kind to the Poor as they most sollicitously desire or reasonably may be expected; for al∣though they freely give their direction to such necessitous people, yet when their Bill comes into the Apothecary's hand, since there is no set Tax on Medicines, it is in his power (notwithstanding the due care taken to prescribe what might not be too chargeable) to make the Physician seem uncharitable, for if the Apothecary exacts because the Physician took nothing, then is his friendship abused, and some ground of suspition (though altogether with∣out cause) that the Physician shares in the Apothecaries unreasonable gains; but I shall have a fit opportunity in the next
Chapter to discourse of this inconvenience both to Physicians and the People, and therefore at present I dismiss it. These Empericks (I say) ingratiate themselves by taking care that their Physick may not be so chargeable as the Physicians, hereby preventing the ruine of Families (as they would perswade the people) and the re∣lapsing of the sick, who are apt when cured, to regret at the great expence, and dislike that life which was so dearly pur∣chased; whereas price adds not to the ef∣ficacy of Medicines which are only suc∣cesful, as they are rationally, and according to Art directed: these Empericks may poyson mens bodies for six pence if they please, and people may be executed by the hand of these at as easie a charge as by the hang-man: in earnest I think it is a dan∣gerous thrift that men to save their purses (I mean they who are able) should be prodigal of their lives, It is doubtless worthy the consideration of Physicians that by some special care, provision be made for the poor, and though I know that eve∣ry true Physician is as willing to help the poor for nothing, as the rich for Fees, and cheerfully embraces all publick and private opportunities to express his readiness here∣in, yet these not taking notice of their
Charity herein run to Mountebanks, who by their unskilfulness make their condition worse then they found it, rendring those miserable Patients unserviceable to their Families and the Publick, and a continual charge to the Parishes wherein they live.
I remember an Expedient proposed not long since to some Physicians by an hono∣rable person which then seemed very ra∣tional to all present; it was to this pur∣pose: That either the Kings Colledge in London would appoint certain of their Members, or the Physicians by mutual a∣greement oblige themselves twice every week at convenient places, the hour be∣ing prefixed, to receive an account from the Poor who should bring Tickets of re∣commendation subscribed by the Minister, Churchwardens and Overseers of the Poor, he conceived that three or four at one time in distant places might accommodate the City and Suburbs of London, and that these having attended their Month, others should be appointed to succeed them, and in relation to the Physick that the publick Officers of the respective Parishes might when they received the Bills, take care to provide it at reasonable rates; those Phy∣sicians consulting (with respect had to the Patients condition) the nearest and
cheapest ways of cure: The whole Com∣pany returned their hearty thanks, espe∣cially the Physicians, that a way was thought on, whereby they might do their Countrey service, thinking it no dispa∣ragement to wait on the meanest person in the faithful discharge of their Calling.
As for others, there is no cause why they should be discouraged or hindred from the use of Physicians, and run to these Empericks when they are sick, be∣cause the one expects a better reward then the other; for the expence is abundantly compensated by that success, which in all probability will be the issue of the skilful Professors, whose chargeable education al∣so extraordinary difficulties in the attain∣ment of their Art and restless care for their Patients, are so many arguments plead∣ing, that they deserve a better esteem and respect then Empericks, who most of them are of the meanest rank, gained their practice in two or three days time,* 1.19 and commit their Patient to the good usage of the Receipts, and the truth is, the people pay dearly for these low priz'd Medica∣ments, when to boot they cost them their lives: but the able and judicious Physi∣cians do wisely manage their trust, endea∣voring to procure good and lasting health at
as easie a rate as possible they can, they daily experience that a common plant growing in every field which costs no more then the pains of gathering, if the use is skilfully directed, doth oft-times out-do a precious Medicine, and frequently exqui∣site, and elaborate remedies of an higher e∣stimate only conquer the radicated dis∣ease. The Physicians act prudently more regarding the Patients sickness then purse, yet are they no less sollicitous, when safely they may, to medicate according to their Pa∣tients ability;* 1.20 let Strada determine between Physicians and the Empericks: Medici fi∣nis est corporum salus quod si quis secus faciat ac Medicamenta contra quam finis artis praescribit, usurpet, improbi civis ac proditoris personam gerit, multo magis, si nulla ad salutem, omnia ad perniciem me∣dicamenta conficiat, suique jactet operis, pestem ubique spargere, cuncta venenis in∣ficere & moliri exitium humano generi, says he, The chief end and use of a Physi∣cian is to recover the sick, but if any one pretending to Physick, shall provide Medi∣cines not answering that end, he is a profli∣gate wretch and a trecherous villain, and much more if in stead of wholesom Medi∣caments he vents those which in their na∣ture are destructive, propagating the
Plague, poysoning all things, destroying his fellow Citizens, and attempting the extir∣pation of mankind. If the people would be so considerate as to weigh the hazard, when they employ these Empericks for the cheapness of their Physick, I question not, but that they would be more cautious to avoid such specious delusions, since that keen Medicines* 1.21 unskilfully handled will certainly wound if not kill.
3. The Empericks as not the least compleatment of their subtle iusinuations into the peoples esteem, do pretend new commanding and secret Medicines, exclaim∣ing against all ancient methods of practise as antiquated and obsolete; these so much extoll'd and even adored Receipts either (as they suggest) travelled out of some remote Countrey meerly out of kindness to be acquainted with those who desire their familiarity, or else they are reported to be no less then the most precious Jewels ransack'd out of Natures Cabinet, when she was by them forced to surrender both her self and treasure into their hands, and to color this design, these Empericks do usually bestow strange Titles on their Me∣dicines, as the Planetary Extract, the Cardiaupnotick Spirit, and Magnetical Balsom; which tearms are as Magical to
the Vulgar, as Agrippa's Vionatraba, Mas∣gabriel, and Abuzana; hereafter I shall give some account of these, and therefore I pass to the last of their practises.
4. The Empericks to advance their own reputation, do perpetually rail at Academical and Graduated Physicians, ac∣cusing either their insufficiency, or lazi∣ness; these observe that by how much more they decry and asperse with false Calumnies, those whom their just deserts have made their Superiors, by so much the more they gratifie the Rabble, desiring to vilifie that which distinguisheth others from them, when the Idol called Learn∣ing is removed, and all people are left to their Mothers wit and common ingenuity, there being a common road opened to the Science of Physick, what impedes but that every one may without interruption jour∣ney to it? and certainly there cannot be imagined a more perswasive argument to the Vulgar, then that if they will joyn and yield their assistance to undervalue the true Professors of Physick; by the same labour they make way for their own inte∣rest; and hence it is that the Empericks in their Pamphlets and common discourses, talk so dishonorably of lawful Physicians, not because of the Art they profess, for
then they should condemn themselves, but because of their University distinctions and the priviledges thereby derived to them: But until it be thought a fit expedient to put out the eyes of the Nation both in or∣der to Phylosophyzing, and also a better way of practising Physick, the true Sons of Art may keep on their course notwith∣standing the vain barkings of these Em∣pericks.
Some perhaps may expect that before I conclude this Chapter of Empericks, I say something concerning those now on the Stage in this Nation, who are as busie and as ignorant as any of their Predeces∣sors; I shall not defile my self so much as to retaliate their abuses, this course be∣ing unworthy of a Physician, and contrary to the direction of Hippocrates; but I hope they have no reason to take it ill, if I remind them of the several Callings in which they were educated, and ought still with care and industry to have exerci∣sed: The most eminent of our Empericks are HEEL-MAKERS, GUN-SMITHS, TAYLORS, WEAVERS, COBLERS, COACHMEN, BOOKBINDERS, and in∣finite more of the like quality, beside a great number of the other SEX, and these for the Credit of the business, either
make every Post wear their Livery, or else procure some Booksellers and others to be their PIMPS, on whose Stalls are hung large Tables with fair Inscriptions; The Sympathetick Powder made by Prome∣thean fire, Pilulae Radiis Solis extractae, famous Pectoral Lozenges, Diaphoretick and Diuretick Pills, Powders for all pur∣poses, and what not: by which means many simple people are Trapan'd to buy and use these Preparations, supposing they may as safely venture on a Medicine out of a Booksellers shop, as read a Book: but alas! some too late perceive their error, for what a man reads may be soon blotted out of his Memory, but such stuff taken into the body and appropriated to the Patient and Disease by the printed book or paper only, is not quickly dis∣miss'd, being oft-times a continual and la∣sting disease to them: in the Chapter of Chymistry, I shall more particularly give an account of these Medicines and the way of their application: I shall conclude this subject with one brief observation, That whereas it was manifest that some thou∣sands died more in London these last three or four years then the preceding, and it is as well known that the lawful Physici∣ans had less employment at those times
then formerly, we may rationally infer, that the true reason of such a Mortality was not (as the Author of Medela medi∣cinae ignorantly suggests) from the in∣crease and propagation of the Venereal, Scorbutick and spermatick ferments, but only by the Emperick ferment and its pernicious malignity.
Omnes ho∣mines, viri aequè ac foe∣minoe, anus ae∣què ac virgo omnes inquam medici vide∣ri pruriunt ut si omnes qui medicae artis cognitionem atque scienti∣am falso no∣mine sibi ad∣scribunt, nu∣mero compren∣dere velis, pri∣us quot flucti∣bus mare à condito aevo agitatum sit ser∣mone atque oratione ex∣pedias Seidel in praefat. lib. de morb. incu∣rab.
Multum e∣gerunt qui ante nos fue∣runt, sed non peregerunt multum adhuc restat operis multumque restabit, nec ulii nato post mille saecula praeclude∣tur occasio aliquid adhuc adjiciendi, Sen.
Quod aevum tam rude aut incultum fuit quo non aliquod medicina si∣ve ab ingenio sive ab exercitatione additamentum ceu ornamentum quo lo∣cupletior quam ante fieret acceperit, 1 Carolus Pisc. in praefat. lib. de serosa Colluvie.
Inexperi∣entia facit fortunam, ut experientia Artem.
Sapienter Em∣pedocles asse∣rit nervos sapientiae esse non temerè credere.
Fabrit. ab a∣quapend. p. 309.
In medicina cum laude fa∣cienda multa & poenè infi∣nita sunt ani∣madvertenda quae à rudi em∣piricorum po∣pello non an∣notentur, Hieron. b••rd. p. 30.
Sibi egregie sapientes videntur ta∣men in maxi∣ma rerum ig∣norantia ver∣santur, & ig∣norantiae te∣nebris circum∣fusi doctrinae causas intueri mentis suae acie neque∣unt, Shegk. in epist.
〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, Gal. lib. 3. meth. med.
Medicina infamis prop∣ter eorum qui eam exer••ent imperitiam.
Experim. philos. lib. 2. p. 220, 221.
Quilibet etsi à veritatis s••••p•• saepe multum aber∣rans tot techins f••catisque demonstrationibus suas palliare studet opinio∣nes ut à cunctis cuncta ferè ingenia primo occursu seducantur: Gul. du Vai•• in nov. mund. subl. anat.
Nullum fere hominum ge∣nus est quod non alat ri∣valitatem cum medicis, Freitag.
Fabritius Hild. p▪ 916.
Furor e st nè moriare, mori.
Em••irici maximam Arti faciunt injuriam in∣fignem inu∣runt maculam, ut periti apud vulgus non modo imperi∣tum, verum etiam prob dolor ••sanioris judicii ho∣mines obtine∣ant authorita∣tem, Seid.
Medicina exact•• indi∣get contempla∣tione & labo∣riosa in operi∣bus exercita∣tione, utpote quae tantis re∣rum difficulta∣tibus scatet, Alsat. p. 5.
Defens. 5. p. 259.
Sicut Pro∣thagoras sophisista qui disci∣pulis & audi∣toribus relin∣quebat esti∣mationem sua∣rum lectionum, ut quisque eorum tantum mercedis ei persolveret quantum existimaret se ex ejus lectionibus profecisse atque didicisse, Aristo. Ethn. p. 838.
Praxis qu•• ipsi utuntur trium dierum spatio ab ho∣mine vel vi∣lissimo acqui∣ritur, Panar. epist.
Strad. probos. p. 58.
Non licet bis peccare in medicina uti nec in bello.