Book Notices, etc. Parturition without pain; a code of directions for escaping from the primeval curse. By M. L. Holbrook, M. D., Editor of Herald of Health. New York: Wood & Holbrook, 1871. Price $1. A very interesting and useful compilation. The propriety of the scriptural quotation on the title-page, "Neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things are passed away," (—Rev. xxi: 4,) we may question, but we cheerfully accord to the editor the meed of praise for his work. The following summary is given by the author: Painless parturition may be secured by attention to the following points during pregnancy (besides correct previous bringing up, moral, mental and physical): Moderate healthful exercise, and avoidance of shocks, fatigue and overexertion. Comfortable, or at least quiet and patient mental condition, avoiding all bad temper. Amusement and agreeable occupation as far as possible. Judicious use af bathing, particularly of the sitz-bath. The fruit diet, and avoidance of unsuitable food. and of alcoholic, narcotic, and other stimulants. Watchfulness and prompt treatment of the various ailments of the situation, should they appear. Kindness and indulgence by the patient's husband and friends. The use of chloroform, if required, at delivery; but only if administered and watched by a professional attendant. The Seventh Annual Report of the Consumptives' Home, and other institutions connected with a work of faith, to September 30, 1871. By Charles Cullis, M. D. Boston: For sale at Willard Tract Repository, 12 West street. Price 25 cts. We have watched the progress of Dr. Cullis' labors in Boston from year to year, with very great interest. The report before us shows a gratifying increase in contributions, and a success ful continuance of the "work of faith." Fifty-five thousand dollars were received during the year, for the Consumptives' Home. Number of patients at the beginning of the year. Number admitted during the year...-------- Discharged, relieved. Discharged, not relieved,.. Cured Died Now remaining in the Home.... Total.. Whole number cared for since opening the Home--- 38 -147 185 53 26 18 55 33 -757 Dr. C. has in view a home for the sufferers from cancer. At the Consumptives' Home the poor, sick with consumption, of whatever nation, creed or color, being friendless or unprovided for, are cordially received and cared for in the name of the Lord. The history of this work of faith from its inception to the present time, is a striking illustration of the value of that sweet trust which is anxiously careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, maketh known its wants to the Great Provider. Southern Voices: poems by W, H. Holcombe, M. D. Philadelphia: F. B. Lippencott & Co. An elegantly printed 12mo volume, of 164 pages, on tinted paper, cloth binding, gilt, which we reserve for more extended notice. NEWSPAPER JUBILEE.-Very few papers, religious or secular, now published, have been in existence more than a quarter of a century; but the New York Observer announces that it will enter upon its fiftieth year in the beginning of 1872. It was established as a religious paper; giving, also, the most important secular news; and it has been one of the ablest, and at the same time one of the most successful journals in the country. The Publishers announce for the coming year, as a free gift to each of their subscribers, a NEW YEAR-BOOK; containing a vast amount of information in regard to Church and State, and all important business affairs, a real encyclopedia, such as any intelligent person wishes to have always at hand. Specimen copies of the paper and prospectus of the Year-Book sent free to all who will apply. New subscribers will receive the paper free until January Ist. Address Sidney E. Morse & Co., " New York Observer," 37 Park Row, New York. AMERICAN OBSERVER FOR 1872. Before closing the volume of our journal for this year, we are making arrangements for the January number of 1872. The ninth volume will doubtless be much more satisfactory to its friends than any of its predecessors. As the American Observer has passed from the struggles and weakness of its infancy to the strength of manhood, more of maturity of thought may be expected. Its special features and peculiarities will be presented more prominently. It will be still more distinctly a professional periodical, devoted to the advancement of HOMEOPATHY. Independent-not neutral. Not the organ of any person or party. Having ready a word of encouragement for every good word and work which relates to the medical science we aim to cultivate, and with just as ready rebuke for every form of quackery and pretence. Controversial papers will be received, if they are devoid of the bitter spirit of partizanship which uncharitably judges of the motives of its opponents, and deals in offensive personalities rather than just reasoning. Preference will always be given however to practical rather than polemic papers. The mode of classification of the contributions, etc., into several departments, which was introduced by the American Observer, and which has met with such hearty approval, will be continued. It will retain on its corps of editors the old writers who have given it character heretofore, and some new contributors will be welcomed. The improvements which have been designed for the new year, new type, new paper, new engravings, etc., etc., will absorb the profits of the enterprise, and we are obliged to again urge upon all our subscribers the propriety of prompt settlement of their subscriptions. A few extra copies of the January number will be issued, which we will send as sample numbers to any physician or student desiring to examine it, who will send us his address. E. A. L. |