TO CORRESPONDENTS.

In Answer to several Correspondents, we state in general terms, that all Apprentices must undergo an examination if they intend to become Members of the Pharmaceutical Society; but the Pharmacy Act does not prevent their commencing business as Chemists and Druggists without becoming connected with the Society. Those who desire to be registered under the Act, or who wish for information as to the course they should take for that purpose, should write to the Secretary, giving their names and addresses.

Z. (Settle). This question is answered in the Notice to Correspondents of our last No. U. M., A. P. S., wishes to know if the following formula can be dispensed as a perfect emulsionOl. Amygdal. dulc.

R

Liquor. Ammoniæ, āā 3j.

Spir. Rosmarini

Aqua Mellis, aa Ziij. Misc. fiat Lotio.

The emulsion is sufficiently united for practical purposes, but should be shaken when used. The oil and solution of ammonia should be mixed before the spirit is added.

J. E. (Tottenham Court Road).-The rumour that a recent alteration in the law enables Chemists to sell spirit of wine is a fallacy. It would be dangerous to act upon the supposition that such rumour is founded on fact. Chemists are allowed, not by law, but by sufferance, to furnish spirit for medicinal purposes only. See vol. vi., page 99 to 118.

B. W. R.-Vermilion was formerly called cinnabar of antimony, because it was obtained in the process for making butter of antimony.

A Member (Wolverhampton).—The substance sold as jalapine is resin of jalap, which has been precipitated from an alcoholic solution by the addition of water. There are two or three methods of preparing it, which yield products not quite identical. Thus, the jalap in its usual state may be exhausted with spirit, some of the spirit removed by distillation, and the residue mixed with water. In this case the jalapine would retain much colouring matter. Again, the jalap may be first boiled with water, so as to remove everything soluble in that menstruum, then treated with spirit so as to extract the resin, and this solution may be digested with animal charcoal to remove colouring matter, afterward concentrated and mixed with water. In this case it would be almost colourless.

An Old Member (Dudley).—(1.) Wishes to know how a certain essence, used for flavouring culinary matters, is made, but as no sample has been sent we are unable to give an opinion.-(2.) Treat the dregs in the manner usually adopted for obtaining morphia from opium.-(3.) Syrup of poppies of the French Coder. Take of alcoholic extract of poppies one part, distilled water eight parts, simple syrup 100 parts. Dis. solve the extract in the water, filter the solution, add it to the syrup, boiling, and strain. C. L. M. states, that on opening a parcel of milk of sulphur, he found that the greater part of it had changed its colour, and he wishes to be informed the cause of this change. An opinion founded on such slight data would be of little value.

A Member (Birmingham).—We have not been able to find the article referred to. A Subscriber.-We know of no better way of preserving leeches than that which it appears you adopt.

Mr. F. Row, of Norwich, states, "I would, through the medium of your Journal, caution my fellow-Druggists to be on their guard against a deputation (as I suppose) from the Commissioners of Stamps, which has been too successful in this city."

R. J. T. (Exeter).-Medicines, to which the labels referred to are attached (excepting castor-oil and aperient mixture), will require to be stamped, as reference is made to the complaints for which they are recommended.

W. G. H. (Reading).-Ammoniacal solution of nitrate of cobalt may be used. An Enquirer.-(1.) The examinations are not confined to any particular books.— (2.) Indentures are not required.-(3.) Application must be made to the Secretary. Meetings have been held in Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, and, we believe, at some other places in the country, for the purpose of discussing the provisions of the Pharmacy Act, but as these were occurring just at the time of our going to press, we are unable to insert any particulars in the present number.

Instructions from Members and Associates, respecting the transmission of the Journal, to Mr. SMITH, Secretary, 17, Bloomsbury Square, before the 20th of the month.

Advertisements (not later than the 23rd of the month) to Mr. CHURCHILL, Princes Street, Soho. Other communications to the Editor.

VOL. XII.--No. III.-SEPTEMBER 1st, 1852.

A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW OF THE CHEMISTS AND DRUGGISTS OF GREAT BRITAIN.

OUR extensive correspondence and personal communication with the Members of the Pharmaceutical body during several years, have made us acquainted with their position, requirements, habits, and general sentiments. So far as these bear upon their future prospects, a few remarks may not be out of place.

The most striking characteristic of the Chemists and Druggists prior to the formation of the Pharmaceutical Society, was the total absence of chemical affinity for each other. Nothing but actual persecution or bodily fear could bring them together. The cause being removed, the effect ceased-and until the recurrence of a similar source of attraction in the shape of a new peril, the repulsive force prevailed. No other communications of an official character ever took place between them, and in the meetings which were held, the science of the Chemist was overlooked and forgotten in the defensive struggles of the tradesman. Even between individuals there was an unaccountable reserve in reference to chemical subjects and Pharmaceutical qualification. It appeared to be forgotten that knowledge-like money-produces interest by circulation, and that knowledge is the true source of power, position, and respectability.

When the permanent union of the Chemists for mutual improvement and advantage was proposed, the chief obstacle to be overcome was the incompatibility of the elements to be united; and the senior members of the trade, judging from past experience, considered the project chimerical. Upon a further discussion of the proposal, it was discovered that the shyness and reserve which had hitherto prevailed, was rather habitual and superficial than constitutional, and when the ice was broken the current began to flow in the right direction, and a disposition to go with the stream was manifested. Jealousy and distrust gradually gave place to more worthy sentiments, and although some of the old leaven still remains to be rooted out, the absence of chemical affinity for each other is no longer the characteristic feature of the Chemists and Druggists.

When the detailed plan of the Society was suggested and discussed, it was received in a manner symptomatic of the disjointed and unorganised condition of those to whom it was addressed. It met with an immediate response from some whose own experience had led them to similar conclusions, who were sensible of the evils, and rejoiced to see that others concurred with them in desiring to provide a remedy. Some granted the hypothesis, but denied the practicability of the deduction. They said nothing could be done without an Act of Parliament, which it would be impossible to obtain, and, suiting the action to the word, they withheld their co-operation. A considerable number, however, although only partially convinced, followed the example of those in whose judgment they had confidence, and lent a helping hand. Others again shut their eyes against facts and their ears against arguments, denied the existence of abuses on one side or danger on the other, and composed their minds in an artificial security, as the ostrich buries his head in the sand and thinks himself safe because he can see nothing. Lastly, there were the systematic opponents of change, who think it "better to bear the ills we have than fly to others that we know not of;" and the advocates of peculiar crotchets, who view every subject through their own telescope.

Such were the auspices under which the Pharmaceutical Society was introduced. It may be supposed, therefore, that it was no easy matter to smooth

down asperities, and adapt its constitution and regulations to the sentiments and circumstances of the parties concerned. Some advocated a high subscription to ensure respectability, others a moderate one to avoid exclusiveness; some thought the examination should be compulsory on all Members from the commencement; others desired that not only the original Members, but Associates and Apprentices should be exempted. On other questions conflicting opinions arose, and it was not easy to adjust the balance. These difficulties were gradually overcome, in consequence of the disposition which prevailed among the majority to wave minor prejudices for the sake of attaining the great object-unanimity; and although it was impossible to please all, an amicable arrangement was effected by mutual concessions, and the constitution of the Society settled down to its present state.

Similar influences prevail to a greater or less extent in the provinces and in the metropolis. In most towns, some of the most intelligent and respected inhabitants are Chemists. We continually find them filling responsible offices, such as mayor, magistrate, guardian of the poor, &c., and also connected with sanitary committees and local institutions of a scientific and useful description. They are not usually addicted to politics, but it will be generally found in any town where a Chemist enters into such matters, he holds a prominent position in the committee of his party. We have observed rather a tendency to conservative principles on general subjects, and also in reference to sweeping reforms and changes in their own business or profession. The services of Chemists on juries are held in estimation; they are considered—as a class-superior in intelligence and experience to the average of tradesmen, and this is urged as the principal argument against their exemption from serving on juries. The Chemist und Druggist, although not a professional man, is usually recognized as a link between the trade and the profession. His avocations, if faithfully and conscientiously performed, demand the exercise of the mental faculties, and the knowledge thus acquired lays the foundation of the influence and respect which he enjoys. This is the case with the bona fide Chemist and Druggist who has voluntarily taken the means to establish a fair reputation in his business. While, however, the merits and character of some individuals reflect credit on the class, this is in some degree neutralized by the delinquencies of others, and the mixture of the business of the Chemist and Druggist with other trades is carried to such an extent in many places, that it is quite impossible to draw the line with a view to classification. In one town with which we have communicated, a majority of the Chemists and Druggists are ladies, an occurrence not unfrequent in other places.

In most towns there are some whose business consists chiefly in counter-practice, who are engaged from morning till night in prescribing for the poor at twopence or threepence per dose. These are the parties who bring down upon the entire body the indignation of the Apothecaries, and are pointed out as illustrations of the encroachments of the Chemists and Druggists. It is, however, admitted on all hands that those who carry on and encourage this kind of business occupy an inferior position in the trade, and that in proportion as they rise as Chemists, they avoid, instead of courting, the responsibility of irregular medical practice.

Since the establishment of the Pharmaceutical Society a considerable improvement is observable in the general character of the business, for although Chemists and Druggists cannot be driven they may be led, and a Society of this description, established on a sound basis and inculcating certain principles, exerts an influence which spreads by imperceptible degrees, and the result is manifested by the increased desire for information, the adoption of improvements in the mode of conducting business, the encouragement of education in the junior members of the trade, and the desire to assist in the measures requisite for raising the status and qualifications of its members. These effects are most observable in places where a sociable and friendly disposition prevails among the Chemists, and more especially where endeavours have been used to obtain an honourable

understanding with the members of the medical profession, who have, in some instances, given their cordial assistance by delivering lectures, attending scientific meetings, and reading papers. Where the Chemists will not be induced to come together or to observe what is passing around them, no progress can be expected. They adhere to the habits of their forefathers, adopt the ostrich as their model, shut their eyes and ears against evidence, and believe themselves to be secure. In a few years they will wake from their sleep, and on taking a bird's eye view of the Pharmaceutical Chemists of Great Britain, they will find themselves, like Rip Van Winkle, a generation behind their brethren.

WHAT LOOMS IN THE DISTANCE.

In the foregoing article we referred to the favourable estimation in which the bonâ fide Chemist and Druggist is held by the public on account of the mental training which the acquirement of the necessary qualification for his business demands, and the influence resulting from such education. This, however, being altogether voluntary, belongs rather to a section of the class than to the class itself; that is to say, a man who has acquired a reputation as a respectable Chemist and Druggist is presumed to be an educated man, but the fact that he is, or calls himself a Chemist and Druggist, does not confer upon him influence or respectability. When the Pharmaceutical Chemists are as a class separated from those who possess no qualification, the case will be different. Admission into the class will be de facto presumptive evidence of education and mental superiority. The demand for ordinary commodities regulates the supply. As long as the distinction between a genuine and a spurious article is not known, both fetch the same price in the market; but when the distinction is pointed out, the demand for that which is genuine increases. The same result will follow when the distinction between a Pharmaceutical Chemist and a "bluebottle Chemist" is understood by the public.

A review of the past often affords data for calculation as to the future. We have seen that many Chemists and Druggists withheld their support from the Society until a Charter was obtained; some still refused to come forward, because they said nothing could be done without an Act of Parliament. An Act having been obtained, it has been questioned whether the powers conferred by the Act are sufficient for the purpose. When excuses are wanted they are easily found. But if those who raise these doubts and fears as an excuse for their own inactivity, had put their shoulders to the wheel in the first instance, they would have greatly facilitated and expedited the result which has now been attained without their assistance.

Thus far, discouragements and obstacles have been surmounted, but much remains to be done. We must not expect to sail with a fair wind in smooth water without intermission. We shall from time to time have fresh difficulties, which, as heretofore, will be overcome by the same steady perseverance which in past experience has been found successful.

A question has arisen on the interpretation of the provisions of the Act and the Charter, relating to the admission of Chemists who commenced business on their own account after the date of the Charter, and before the passing of the Act. The Charter confers the power of admission by certificate of due qualification. The bye-laws define the mode in which this power is to be exercised. The Act confirms the Charter, and also confirms the bye-laws until the next Annual Meeting in May. It has been thought advisable to obtain a legal opinion on the subject, as it is the desire of the Council to admit all Chemists and Druggists who were in business on their own account prior to the passing of the Act, on production of satisfactory evidence that the parties so admitted are duly qualified, but without obliging them to come to London to pass the regular

examination. The importance of effecting this object has been pointed out in other parts of this number.

While we regret that any doubt has arisen on this point, we are not at all apprehensive as to the ultimate result. Several modes of overcoming the difficulty have been suggested, but the legal opinion not having been received, it would be premature to enter further into detail. It is not improbable that other questions may arise, requiring serious consideration, in the course of the proceedings under the Act, and endeavours may be used by interested persons, who, like the stormy petrel, are always in their element in foul weather, to raise doubts and distrust, and to magnify any difficulties which may occur. Whatever statements may be made for the purpose of throwing dust in the eyes of the Members, we see nothing in the distance but a triumph over all obstacles, and the attainment of the objects contemplated in the Act. This we have kept steadily in

view from the commencement.

Nothing of importance has been added to or taken from the facts originally published and discussed. The necessity for the movement was proved in the first instance, every year has furnished fresh evidence, and the facts are recorded in the report of the Select Committee of the House of Commons. The principal difficulties have been overcome, we have taken several steps in advance, and nothing remains but to persevere and take a victory.

THE ADULTERATION OF COFFEE, &c.

TOWARDS the close of last session, the retailers of coffee were alarmed by the circulation of a rumour respecting the rescinding of the "Treasury Minute," which permitted the mixture of chicory with coffee. The Chancellor of the Exchequer in reply to a question in the House, said that the minute was not rescinded, and that all he could say was, that whatever regulations might be made on the subject, would be such as to do no injury to the fair trader.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has kept faith with the fair trader, and placed a check upon fraud by substituting for the former license to adulterate, the following minute:

"That in future, licensed dealers in coffee be allowed to keep and sell chicory, or other vegetable substances, prepared to resemble coffee, in packages sealed or otherwise secured, containing respectively not less than two ounces, and having pasted thereon a printed label, with the name or firm of the seller, the exact weight and true description of the article contained therein, and provided that no such article be kept in a loose state, or otherwise than in such packages aforesaid, in any room entered for the storeage or sale of coffee."

By this minute, as much liberty is granted as rogues ought to be trusted with, or honest men could desire. Chicory, roasted corn, beans, or other substances may be sold singly or mixed, provided the actual contents of each package are stated on the label. The public will choose for themselves. They may have pure coffee if they please, but if they prefer it sophisticated they must mix it themselves. We are not aware of any objection to the moderate use of chicory, and some persons think it improves the flavour of coffee. But the "Treasury Minute" which allowed the unrestrained mixture, encouraged fraud, by affording to dishonest retailers the opportunity of mixing with their coffee not only chicory, but any trash with which it might suit their purpose to adulterate the compound. A Commission is at this time engaged on behalf of the Government, in the examination of chicory and coffee in reference to this question.

It would be well if some regulation could be adopted with regard to certain drugs which are systematically sophisticated. For example: if scammony, chalk, and flour were sold separately, the public might mix them or not, according to fancy. If milk of sulphur and sulphate of lime were sold in ounce or two