CANADIAN DRUGGIST.
VOL. I. TORONTO AND STRATHROY, AUGUST, 1889. NO. 2.
THE CANADIAN DRUGGIST,
5 Jordan Street, Toronto, Ont.
And Strathroy, Ont.
WILLIAM J. DYAS, Editor and Publisher.
Subscription, $1 per Year, in Advance.
Advertising Rates on Application.
The Canadian Druggist is issued on the 15th of each month, and all
matter for insertion should reach us by the 5th of the month.
All cheques or drafts, and matter intended for the editor, to be
addressed to Box 438, Strathroy, Ont.
New advertisements or changes to be addressed
CANADIAN DRUGGIST, 5 JORDAN STREET, TORONTO.
FIRST RESULTS.
In our first issue we spoke confidently of the future prospects of this
journal, as to its filling a want in Pharmaceutical journalism in
Canada, of a certain recognition by druggists as THE organ of the
profession and of encouraging words from Pharmaceutical friends. We are
glad to say that we have not been mistaken in our expectations. From the
Provinces of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island,
Manitoba and British Columbia we have already received congratulatory
letters as well as subscriptions, one and all virtually agreeing in the
verdict, “Just what we needed.” Appended are extracts from a few of the
letters received:
“Allow me to congratulate you on its make up, which I consider good.”
“Congratulate you on your first number and do not doubt your success.”
“Very complete and well calculated to find favour with every Canadian
chemist.”
“Congratulate you on the make up and contents of the CANADIAN DRUGGIST,
and wish you success in your enterprise.”
“Was pleased with the first issue of your journal and found a number of
items that would be of interest and use to the druggists of this
Province; trust that you may have the success that your enterprise most
assuredly entitles you to.”
“Find the CANADIAN DRUGGIST the most interesting paper for druggists in
the Dominion. I wish you success.”
One of our advertisers says that within two weeks after the publication
of the first number, he had business enquiries from two druggists in
Prince Edward Island and one in British Columbia, the extreme easterly
and westerly Provinces of our Dominion, mentioning the advertisement
which appeared in the CANADIAN DRUGGIST leading to the transaction of
business with them.
INSURANCE OF DRUG STOCKS.
By mutual consent of all fire insurance companies (and when will they
not agree to increase their own profits by raising rates), the rate on
ordinary drug stock is higher than ordinary merchandise rates, claiming
the greater risk on the former class. That this is not the case is shown
time and again from statistics which clearly prove that although drug
stock may and does include goods which are of a particularly inflammable
nature, yet the precautions taken, the description of containers in
which these goods are kept and the usually small proportion of them in a
retail store has reduced the number of fires originating in such
premises to a very small percentage of the total fire losses.
In Philadelphia a “Druggists’ Mutual Fire Insurance Company” has been
formed, and has issued a large number of policies. Would it not be well
for the druggists of Canada to consider the question either of concerted
action on their part to compel the insurance companies to give us more
reasonable rates, or failing in this to establish a company on somewhat
the same lines as the Philadelphia company? We append some extracts from
the Druggists’ Circular, showing the feeling which exists in the United
States in this matter:
At the annual meeting of the Ohio Pharmaceutical Association, held in
1888, a committee was appointed to investigate the subject of mutual
fire insurance. This committee has recently made public the results of
its work from which it appears that the druggists of that State pay
pretty dearly for their insurance. It is estimated by the committee,
from all that they can learn, that druggists by protecting themselves on
the mutual plan can save from one-half to three-quarters of the money
now expended for premiums.
There has long been an exceedingly strong suspicion in the minds of
druggists everywhere that the rates usually charged them for insurance
against fire were extravagant. When protesting against these charges
they have been confronted with pictures of the terribly dangerous
character of their stocks--how their stores were magazines of highly
inflammable substances, which by the breaking of a bottle, might in a
moment be involved in destruction.
To show that a pharmacy is in fact a rather safe place, so far as fire
is concerned, we may quote from the report above referred to that in
Cleveland the loss to retail druggists from that cause during a period
of eighteen years amounted to only $5,500; and in Cincinnati the loss in
eight years was but $3,000.
PHARMACISTS’ AIDS.
There can be no doubt of the fact, that two of the most rapidly
increasing demands upon the ability of the pharmacist of to-day,
are analytical chemistry and microscopy. The former includes that
class of demands that so frequently apply to the druggist for
analysis of some special compound or even more often for an
analysis of urine. These are not limited to the “ignorant (?)
laity,” but are decidedly common requests from physicians
themselves. It has only been a few years since these subjects
became so important in the diagnosis of disease, and therefore only
the decidedly studious or recent graduate appreciates or
investigates the utility of their possibilities. Referring
especially to the matter of urine analysis, for every druggist
should be posted on analytical chemistry, we know that very few of
our best pharmacists have made any special study of this specialty
and the following is an ordinary result. The doctor, often for lack
of time, quite as often for lack of information, applies to the
pharmacist for an analysis of urine--presuming, the pharmacist
cannot do it, naturally enough the doctor goes elsewhere, but does
he ever return for any more such work? Does he ever refer anyone
else to that store for it? No--all references in this line are to
that pharmacist who is capable thereof. How many prescriptions, how
much trade is thereby lost, transferred? Just because the first
pharmacist could not do a little chemical analysis that would not
have required more than twenty minutes of his time, for which,
also, he would be paid. On the other hand, presuming, he says,
“Yes, I will analyse it for you,” the doctor not only has reason to
go there again for such work, not only refers other doctors, as
also his patients, there, but trade, prescriptions, etc., are
necessarily increased.
We know a pharmacist who, as a result of this one department of
analytical chemistry, took in two hundred dollars for the work
itself in one year, to say nothing of the increase of trade thus
induced. In other words, we believe that a pharmacist should not
only be a druggist, but a chemist. He need not delve in the minute
depths of the subject, but there are many of its minor branches
like the one referred to--that require but little study or time,
that not only add to his business, but give a scientific touch to
his reputation that the public decidedly admire. As regards the
microscope in pharmacy, the many and increasing articles in our
different journals commending its value and use are but growing
proofs of the fact that the pharmacist of the future will and must
be a microscopist.
Here we have another of the many minor studies, that are not only
easily learned but quite as easily applied.
The value of a microscope is illustrated readily by the fact that
while every crystal, root, rhizome, leaf, powder, starch, etc.,
have distinctive and individual peculiarities, yet very few of
these are distinguishable by the naked eye, while all are easily
resolved and can be identified by aid of a microscope and a little
experience. When we think of the fact that England, France, Germany
and other foreign countries make a business of manufacturing
especial “adulterants for the American trade” we can comprehend the
necessity of individual analysis. Of course the microscope can only
apply to a part of these things, and many pharmacists have but few
occasions to use its powers. Nevertheless if one possesses the
knowledge to detect anise in conium, or vice versa, starch, sugar,
etc., in quinine and antipyrine or powdered ipeac, to say nothing
of coffee, pepper and many more drugs that are so commonly
adulterated, he could save the price of his instrument in a
comparatively short time, and while enjoying the pleasure of this
delightful and instructive work would also know that he is
conscientious in supplying pure articles to his customers.
It is encouraging to know that microscopy has been gaining in
importance in many of our pharmacy schools. Usually starting with
small proportions and inefficient supplies--it, as a study,
gradually works its way and proves its utility until to-day a
number of the leading colleges require the work as one of the
necessities for graduation. In many medical schools of the United
States and Europe not only is microscopy applied temporarily but
much stress is being laid on photomicrography, by which means its
valuable investigations are easily preserved. It is evident that
microscopy is one of the pharmaceutical advancements of the day. It
has rapidly pressed its needs upon the scientific part of the
profession. It is growing in demand. It is a comparatively new
field and presents grand opportunities for observation,
investigation and original work.
As the time must surely come when a part of the pharmacist’s
armament will be a microscope and microscopy, we wish to direct
attention to the subject in the belief that those who would be
progressive may be led to investigate its value.--[N. E. Druggist.
CUTTING PRICES.
In connection with this subject of cutting, the following interview of
an Era reporter with Mr. Alexander Hudnut, the proprietor of the great
cut rate store of Hegeman & Co., New York, will be read with interest.
Mr. Hudnut said:--
The rebate plan, or any other system of artificial bolstering, is
as futile as it would be to try and dam Niagara. Legislation on the
subject is unnecessary and superfluous. The matter carries its own
death warrant with it.
Some six years ago the drug trade got together and formed a most
beautiful plan for maintaining prices. Where is that beautiful plan
now? The rebate system is probably its legitimate offspring. Come
to me some years hence and I expect to be able to point to a string
of lineal descendants of the rebate plan, each of them as helpless
to perform what is expected as the other. The world ought to be
wise enough by this time to recognize the fixity of the laws which
govern commerce.
I regard the principle of cutting as a settled policy in the drug
business, and I shall pursue that steadily. Hegemann & Co. have
done a business of about $325,000 annually. I expect to increase it
to half a million dollars. In London the immense stores of the Army
& Navy, and of the Civil Service have worked a revolution in the
drug trade, by buying at first hands in immense quantities, and
selling on close margin. They have even cut the rates on
prescription business. The result has been that the chemists, as
they call them there, have been compelled to come down in their
prices, and a process of elimination has steadily gone on--the weak
have had to go to the wall. The result is the “survival of the
fittest.” These conditions apply to New York, and I venture to say
that there are not over ten drug stores in the city of New York
that are making their owners more than a living. With the rest it
is simply a process of more or less rapid rusting out.
An absence of cut prices, and general prosperity marks the retail drug
trade of Cleveland. The Cleveland Pharmaceutical Association is clannish
and its dues are so moderate that almost the entire trade is within the
Association. This gives rise to a brotherly feeling which makes doing
business a pleasure; and prevents cuts and insures prosperity. The drug
trade in many cities suffers from wholesale slashing of prices from the
lack of such an Association as exists in Cleveland. The Association is
thoroughly organized, and the two wholesale houses in Cleveland do
everything in their power to help the retail trade along, and decline to
sell at retail in
OPIUM.
In Opium the reduced estimates of the probable yield from the current
crop, coupled with advices of higher prices in London and the primary
market, have caused a much firmer feeling here. The bulk of the spot
supply is controlled by three dealers who it is said are working in
harmony to raise prices, in which effort they have already made
considerable progress, it would appear, since at the close there was
very little standardized to be had at $3.10, the general quotation being
$3.15. Natural was held at $3.20 to $3.50. While there were no large
buyers in the market, the demand for single cases and broken lots was
very good. Powdered has advanced to $4.20 to $4.30 as to seller and
test. We have received the following from Smyrna under date of July
13th: “There is no longer doubt that if the yield of 5,000 baskets is to
be reached by the new crop (including the 1,250 baskets from Salonica)
the fields on the high grounds must yield much more than the lower
fields have shown up to the present moment--arrivals of 117 baskets
against 570 in 1888, which certainly is a poor showing. It is true that
in Constantinople, where they got the opium from the districts where the
gathering was made in advance of the others this season, they had
received 45 baskets against 125 last year, which is somewhat better than
we can show, but is still awfully poor. Holders are very sanguine and
will not sell their goods unless they get higher prices, and as they now
have increased facilities for depositing their goods with banks at
reasonable rates of interest, it is most probable that buyers will have
to accept their terms. The stocks abroad were large, but as they have
been kept all along at lower rates than what opium could be bought at in
the primary markets, they have gradually melted down to reasonable
quantities. London has hardly 1,000 cases, the greater part of which is
Persian and high grade Turkish, not suitable for the American market.
New York has about 500 cases which could be called ‘in the market.’ The
balance is held by outsiders who would not part with their opium unless
they get much higher prices for it. But all this is a matter of little
consideration to the native merchant in Turkey; he holds on to his opium
when he sees a small crop, and buyers will have either to live on the
European and New York stocks or pay them something better than the
starving prices they paid for the last few years.” Since this was
written, some cables advise crop estimates reduced to 4,500 baskets
(including Salonica), and prices in Smyrna from 9s. 3d. to 9s. 9d.
ADVANTAGES OF TRADE JOURNALS.
Trade journals have become an established institution, and the fact that
they have come to stay cannot longer be doubted. Their advantage, to
both the buyer as well as the seller, is manifested every day in the
change which has been wrought in the present manner of transacting
business. A few years ago, before these journals were established, if a
party desired to purchase a certain line of goods, the first thing he
would do would be to supply himself with the necessary funds, pack up
his grip and start out upon a tour of observation and inspection; and
after traveling over a large amount of territory and spending
considerable money, would finally succeed in finding the goods sought
for. The manufacturer who was desirous of introducing to the public any
new line of goods, was obliged to resort to the slow, expensive and
uncertain method of mailing out printed circulars, at the rate of ten
dollars per thousand for postage, besides the expense of printing,
folding and directing them; and perhaps eight out of every ten thus sent
out, if received at all by the parties to whom directed, would find
their way to the waste-paper basket without ever being opened. It being
impossible to reach every one by this method, the chances for striking
one who might be in want of the article named therein was often not one
in five hundred, while perhaps a hundred others might be omitted who
might be in want of it.
Advertising in a general way in the papers of the day was not a
profitable investment. Those papers having a very large circulation,
such as the “Scientific American,” the “Iron Age,” and others which
might be named, were valuable papers and probably were the best mediums
at that time; but their circulation, although very large, was general,
and while the advertiser was charged for the space occupied at a rate
based upon a circulation of 40,000 or 50,000 copies, yet in many
instances but very few of the trades interested and to whom it was
desirable to introduce the goods, were ever reached. For instance, the
“Iron Age” circulated principally among hardware and iron dealers, who
formed a considerable portion of its circulation, very few of whom had
any interest whatever in saw-mill or planing-mill machinery, and so on
with all other trades, and as before stated, while they were paying
exorbitant rates for advertising based upon the large circulation of
those journals, they were really deriving less benefit from it than they
would have received from a medium of one-quarter the circulation, but
devoted exclusively to this particular trade and circulated exclusively
among them.
Every trade is now represented by a journal devoted to that trade
exclusively, and a purchaser now, instead of spending large sums of
money and much valuable time in roaming over the country in search of
any particular line of goods, may sit down quietly in one corner of his
office and consult his trade paper, in which he will find the goods of
the most prominent and reliable manufacturers carefully described and
fully illustrated by fine, artistic cuts, so that all that is required
is to write to some of those houses, who will cheerfully answer all
inquiries, or in most cases, send their travelling man, who will come
prepared to give them all further information that may be required, and
their purchases may be made then and there to just as good advantage as
if they had spent $100 in travelling expenses, in order to visit the
same house in person. If any house is neglected by not being represented
in its own trade paper, it is its misfortune in not being represented,
and not the fault of the journal.
Another change has been brought about, and one that trade journals have
had more or less to do with: There is a different class of travelling
men representing these houses at the present time from what there was a
few years ago. Since buyers have abandoned the plan of visiting these
houses in person prominent manufacturers have found it for their own
interest to employ none but sober, competent and reliable men to
represent them--men who are well posted in the business and who are
competent to give intelligent and reliable information with regard to
the goods which they represent, and the result is that the public has
more confidence and is more ready to deal with them than formerly, while
the “bums” that formerly represented, or misrepresented, these houses
have disappeared from the road. Manufacturers find it to their advantage
to have their goods thus represented in these journals, for the reason
that while the rates are much lower than would be obtained in the former
mediums, they are sure every copy that is sent out from the office of
publication, whether the circulation be 1,000 or 10,000 per issue, will
be sure to fall into the hands of some one who is interested in their
particular line of goods.
The public has been benefited by trade journals in another manner which
can not be omitted. Almost every journal representing any particular
trade has secured the services of experienced and practical writers,
who, from long experience in this particular line, have become experts
in the business, and from whom much valuable information may be obtained
by those who have not had the same experience and advantages. Many young
men just starting out in life, either as proprietors or foremen in the
various trades, have received many valuable hints from these sources,
which have been of much benefit to them, and which might have required
years of experience before they could have acquired the same
information. And for this and other reasons which have been given, what
was said at the commencement of this article may be repeated, viz., that
the trade journals have come to stay.
No druggist can afford to do without his drug journal. Through the
columns of the CANADIAN DRUGGIST he may keep himself posted on new
remedies, approved appliances, fresh developments in the pharmaceutical
and chemical worlds; he can, at a glance, note the fluctuations in
prices of goods, and by careful perusal of the advertising columns (not
by any means the least important part of the trade journal) will keep
track of all specialties offered by our advertisers. Our advice is, Read
your trade paper regularly, and support it liberally.
DIGNITY IN BUSINESS.
It is not a good plan to descend to sensationalism in the methods of
conducting business. True enterprise is as far removed from the
rowdy-dowdy style of procedure as is day from night. All men are not
coarse and ignorant in their perceptions, and no business communication
or business announcement should be sent forth that is not gentlemanly
and delicate in both diction and sense. A contrary course will soon
convince its author that he is making a great mistake in stooping to
vulgarity and the small and unrefined side of men’s natures.
It is all very well to make a little noise occasionally, in order to
stir up languishing trade. The more noise the better, in fact, provided
it is only the right kind of noise, and not the discordant braying of
commercial fish-horns. A red-hot campaign now and then is the best thing
out, but it must be managed with skill and tact.
The most successful merchants of to-day recognize the fact that it does
not pay to abuse competitors. If one’s competitors are dishonorable and
tricky the public will find it out in the long run, whereas if they are
straightforward and progressive, no amount of slander will hurt them.
Praise your own wares truthfully and fearlessly, and let your neighbor’s
alone--that is the best way. Brag and bluster may do for a season, but
they don’t wear.
When a merchant advertises in the newspapers he is in great danger of
saying too much--or rather, of clothing what he does say in the wrong
terms. Slang should be avoided always. Never appeal to the passions and
prejudices of your patrons. Most men nowadays happily think with their
intellects. It is an error to suppose that we can either interest or
instruct people by first assuring them that they are all but hopelessly
ignorant. Human nature may be weak, but it is strong enough to resent
such offensive presumption. The public knows more than many a merchant
is willing to give it credit for.
In sending out trade letters and circulars it is not only unwise but
positively ruinous to assume an undignified and vulgar tone. Nothing
shows the ass in the lion’s skin so quickly. It should always be borne
in mind by the merchant or business man of whatever line that culture
and good breeding are appreciated even by the unlettered, and that is
asking favors--which every business man in some form or other does of
his patrons--the language of the gutter is not the proper means of
expression to employ. All business transactions should be dignified.
Smith & McGlashan Co,
[LIMITED]
WHOLESALE DEALERS IN
DRUGGISTS’ SPECIALTIES
Sundries and Fancy Goods
Agents for E. B. Shuttleworth’s Fluid Extracts, Specialties and
Pharmaceutical Preparations
Malleable Steel Spring, Reversible, Hard Rubber, Celluloid, and Elastic
Belt Trusses.
Mailing orders for Trusses promptly filled. We make a specialty of
Hard and Soft Rubber Sundries.
Our travellers are out with Holiday Goods and are showing a large line,
carefully selected from every Plush Goods maker in Canada. Our lines of
imported goods should be seen. We would remind our friends that we sell
almost exclusively to the Drug Trade.
SMITH & McGLASHAN CO., Limited
53 FRONT ST. E.
TORONTO, - ONT.
HICKSON, DUNCAN & CO.
25 FRONT STREET
Successors to
W. H. BLEASDELL & CO.
In calling the attention of our numerous customers to our large and
varied stock of Fancy Goods, are pleased to state that we are
exceptionally well prepared to fill orders in large or small
quantities, and at much better value than heretofore. Buying direct
from the manufacturers in Germany, France and England, we can offer
special inducements in all lines of
DRUGGISTS’ AND TOBACCONISTS’ SUNDRIES
Toys, Cutlery, Sporting Goods, Games, Vases, Brushes, Bisque
Figures, Stationery, etc.
Yours respectfully,
HICKSON, DUNCAN & CO.
LAWSON & JONES
Forest City Label Works
LONDON, - - CANADA
Established 1882
We are the only firm in Canada devoting special attention to
CHEMISTS’ PRINTING
and with our present facilities we can successfully compete with
any of the American or European Label houses.
We invite comparison of our work and prices with others.
We also supply Estes’ Turned Wood Boxes, Gill’s Seamless Tin Boxes,
Paper Pill and Powder Boxes, Cartons and special lines of
Containers.
Write for Catalogue. Mention this paper.
LAWSON & JONES
226 King Street, - London, Canada
J. PALMER & SON
IMPORTERS OF
DRUGGISTS’ SUNDRIES
Sole Agents in Canada for
A. & F. PEAR’S SOAPS
DUPONT’S BRUSHES
BERTRAND’S PERFUMES
[Illustration]
The Largest and best assorted Stock in Canada of
BRUSHES, COMBS, SPONGES,
PERFUMERY,
CHAMOIS, SOAPS, FANCY GOODS,
TOILET REQUISITES.
1743 & 1745 NOTRE DAME
MONTREAL - - CANADA.
Please mention CANADIAN DRUGGIST when ordering goods advertised.
LYMAN BROS.
& CO.
WHOLESALE
[Illustration: DRUGGISTS]
--AND--
Manufacturing
Chemists
WAREHOUSES:
71 & 73 Front St. East
CHEMICAL WORKS AND MILLS:
147 & 149 Front St. E.
TORONTO.
A full assortment of Drugs, Chemicals and every requisite for the retail
trade.
TRADE NOTES
Clarke & Co., of Kamloops, B.C., contemplate going more extensively into
manufacturing specialties.
Prof. Shuttleworth, of the Ontario College of Pharmacy, is enjoying a
well earned holiday in the North-West.
Mr. North, representative of the Recamier Manufacturing Co., New York,
has been in Montreal relative to the establishment of an agency in
Canada.
At a recent meeting of the New Brunswick Pharmaceutical Society, the
following officers were elected for the ensuing year: C. P. Clarke,
President; R. W. McCarty, Vice-President; R. E. Coupe, Secretary; I. C.
Cochrane, Treasurer; M. V. Paddock, A. C. Smith, W. Mowat, S. McDiarmid,
H. J. Dick, C. W. Parker, I. W. Racine, C. H. Fairweather, Council.
D. Taylor & Co. have purchased the drug business of J. B. Meacham, Yonge
Street Arcade, Toronto.
The stock of Lowden, Paton A Co., wholesale druggist’s sundries men, was
sold by auction at their warehouse, Front St., Toronto, on July 24 and
25. Fair prices were realized.
J. W. James, formerly with Dr. C. Clark, of Ridgetown, has been engaged
by J. W. Meek as manager of his branch drug store at Glencoe, Ont.
W. A. Lavel & Co., Smith’s Falls, have dissolved partnership. The
business is continued by W. A. Lavell.
J. W. Yeomans, formerly in business in Hamilton, is on the road for the
Davis & Lawrence Co.
Mr. Harry Warwick, of Warwick Freres, Grasse, France, was in the city
this week.
Mr. Houston, formerly with the Davis & Lawrence Co., is on the road for
Messrs. Thos. Leeming & Co., Montreal.
R. T. Shaw, the Almonte druggist, assigned for creditors’ benefit on the
24th July.
Dr. C. J. Edgar, of Inverness, P.Q., has just sold out his drug
business.
Tyrrell H. Duncombe, who has been clerking in his cousin Dr. Duncombe’s
drug store in St. Thomas, has just bought out the business.
Among the many losses by death that we have heard of lately we regret
exceedingly to have to announce that of Thomas B. Barker, who has for
years been doing business as a wholesale druggist in St. John. His son,
who of late years has been a partner in the firm, will continue the
business.
W. B. Thompson, the Cornwall druggist, is advertising his business for
sale by tender.
G. W. Henderson, who has for years had a well established drug business
in Liverpool, N.S., died early in the month.
R. O. Snider & Co., Toronto, were fined for breach of the Weight and
Measures Act.
Stuart W. Johnston’s store at the Island makes a bright spot. Mr.
Unsworth, his assistant, reports business good.
Lowden, Paton & Co.’s sale was largely attended by retail men and some
good bargains were picked up.
Mr. Lowden is now the selling agent of the Burlington Glass Company, a
line in which he is thoroughly versed.
J. F. Holland, the druggist and stationer in the town bearing his own
name, was burned on 30th July.
Mellin’s food has advanced 5% owing to the duty being raised to 35% and
1¼c. lb.
R. Weir, Toronto, has removed from Yonge St. to corner of Isabella and
Jarvis.
C. H. Cowen, corner Wilton Ave. and Parliament, has removed to corner
Carlton and Parliament Sts., Toronto.
Auction sales are very unsatisfactory affairs at all times, and we fear
that there was no exception to the rule in the case of Lowden, Paton &
Co., who got rid of most of their stock the last week in July through
the assistance of Suckling, Cassidy & Co., the Toronto trade
auctioneers. When people buy at auctions, if they are well posted in
values, they rarely bid above half the value of the goods and if the
quantities are large they are not content unless they obtain decided
bargains. At the Lowden-Paton sale plush goods were sold in large
quantities at prices that would scarcely pay for the fittings, while
rubber goods and extracts simply brought no value at all. This sale is
but another reminder of the fact that a stock and business are not in
themselves of any more value than they will bring under the hammer, but
are merely means to an end--an annual income. When taking stock this
fact should not be forgotten and a liberal discount should always be
made on fixtures and such goods as are considered poor or dead stock.
* * * * *
The wise druggist: “Well, sonny, what is it?” asked the drug clerk,
peering over the counter at the 3-feet mite of humanity. “Mamma sent me
to get a piece of soap--cast-iron, I think she said.” “We don’t keep any
summer hotel soap here,” returned the clerk; “you must have mistaken the
metal. Wasn’t it Castile?”--[Life.
FORMULÆ.
DR. FLINT’S TONIC.
Dr. Austin Flint gives (_N. Y. Med. Jour._) the formula of a saline and
chalybeate tonic which is now prepared by several leading drug houses in
New York city in the form of tablets. It is used with success in loss of
appetite, etc., and is also said to be an excellent remedy in Bright’s
disease. The following is the formula:--
Sodii chloridi 3 ij
Potassii chloridi gr. ix.
“ sulph gr. vj.
“ carb gr. iij.
Sodii carb gr. xxxvj.
Magnes. carb gr. iij.
Calc. phos. præcip ℨss.
“ carb gr. iij.
Ferri redacti gr. xxvij.
“ carb gr. iij.
Mix and divide into 60 tablets, two of which may be taken three times a
day after eating.
FRECKLE LOTION.
Hydrochlorate of ammonium 4 parts.
Dilute hydrochloric acid 5 parts.
Lait virginal 50 parts.
Glycerin 30 parts.
Mix, with strong and continued agitation. The freckles are to be touched
morning and evening with a camel’s hair pencil wet with this solution.
“Lait virginal” is a mixture of 2 parts tincture of benzoin with 62
parts orange flower water.--_L’ Union Medicale._
BENZINE JELLY.
To make a benzine jelly for removing grease spots from textiles _Meyer
Bros.’ Druggist_ recommends the following:
I.
Infusion of soap bark, 20 per
cent. 4 fl. dra.
Benzine 2 fl. ozs.
Mix and shake for half an hour and then let stand for 12 hours to
gelatinize.
II.
A translucent, gelatinized benzine can be made as follows:
Tincture of soap bark 12 fl. drs.
Benzine to make 8 fl. ozs.
Mix as in first formula.
SACHET POWDERS.
The following formulæ for sachet powders are given in the _Chemist and
Druggist_:
_Lavender._ Parts.
Lavender flowers 128
Thyme 8
Mint 4
Oil of lavender 1
Cloves 4
Tincture of ambergris 2
_New Mown Hay._ Parts.
Orris root 2 200
Tonka beans 300
Vanilla 300
Oil of bitter almonds 1
Oil of rose geranium 12
Oil of rose 3
Oil of bergamot 6
Extract of musk 64
_Jockey Club._ Parts.
Orris root 600
Sandal wood 100
Oil of bergamot 16
Oil of rose 1
Extract of musk 32
Extract of civet 16
_Violet._ Parts.
Orris root 400
Rhodium wood 100
Rose leaves 100
Black currant leaves 100
Benzoin 4
Musk pods 8
Oil of bitter almonds
The solids should be in a coarse powder, freshly ground.
TOOTHACHE DROPS.
Morphine acetate gr. j.
Oil peppermint gtts. v.
Phenol gtts. xx.
Collodion fℨi.
M. Apply with cotton. _Jour. de Med._
PHARMACY MEETING.
The half-yearly meeting of the Ontario College of Pharmacy was opened in
the college buildings, Gerrard Street East, Toronto, on Tuesday, August
6th, at 3 o’clock p.m. There were present: Mr. John A. Clark, Hamilton;
Mr. J. E. D’Avignon, Windsor; John J. Hall, Woodstock; G. S. Hobart,
Kingston; Andrew Jeffrey, Toronto; L. T. Lawrence, London; John McKee,
Peterboro’; J. H. Mackenzie, Toronto; C. H. McGregor, Brantford; A. B.
Petrie, Guelph; J. W. Slaven, Orillia, and Henry Watters, Ottawa.
On the motion of Mr. John McKee, seconded by Mr. Andrew Jeffrey, the
President, Mr. John A. Clark, Hamilton, was appointed Chairman.
The Chairman called upon Mr. Isaac T. Lewis who read the result of the
election of members to the council and the number of ballots cast for
each and the same was approved.
President Clark said that when he undertook the duties of president two
years ago, he realized that it would be a task of considerable
difficulty to discharge the duties to the satisfaction of the members of
the Board. He hoped the meeting would not be characterised by any
unpleasant feeling such as had been manifested in the late Council.
Nominations for Vice-President having been declared in order, Mr. J. E
D’Avignon moved the appointment of Mr. W. B. Saunders, and Mr. C. H.
McGregor moved Mr. J. Hall. Mr. Hall was elected, only one ballot being
cast for Mr. Saunders who was not present.
The Vice-President, in the course of a brief speech, expressed the
reluctance he felt in opposing Mr. Hall. He would reserve his reasons
for doing so until Mr. Saunders was present. It was necessary in giving
effect to the new act that men who held office before should be
identified with the Council. He would do his best to secure for the
college any of the benefits obtained from the act.
On the motion of Mr. J. H. Mackenzie, seconded by Mr. L. T. Lawrence,
Mr. Isaac T. Lewis was re-elected Treasurer and Registrar for the next
two years.
The Chairman stated that the auditor, Mr. Daniels was away in England,
and that it would be necessary to appoint another for the unexpired
term. On the motion of Mr. J. H. Mackenzie, seconded by Mr. J. McKee,
Mr. W. A. Hargreaves appointed for the unexpired term.
Mr. H. Watters, seconded by Mr. John McKee, moved that a committee
consisting of Messrs Slaven, Hall, Jeffrey and the mover and seconder be
appointed to strike standing committees.
Mr. C. H. McGregor, seconded by Mr. J. J. Hall, moved as an amendment
that Messrs. Hobart, Watters, Petrie, Mackenzie and McGregor receive the
appointment. The amendment was lost by eight votes to four.
Mr. D’Avignon moved the adoption of the minutes as printed in the
Pharmaceutical Journal for February.
The Chairman--I object to that, as part of them recorded there not true.
I refer to page 117 of the journal where it says: “The President rose to
a question of privilege referred to some statements made in the World
with regard to his connection with the Pearen matter.” I object to the
manner in which that is put in.
Mr. Lewis, Registrar, at the President’s request, read the minutes as
recorded in the minute book as follows:
“The President arose to speak on a matter of privilege, and
explained to the council the action he had taken in the matter of
the attempt at alteration of the Register of Apprentices by J. M.
Pearen, and read to the Council the letter in the World of February
8th, and claimed the statements therein were not in accord with the
facts, and he thought it was due to him that the Council should not
allow them to be uncontradicted.”
Mr. Davidson--Then I infer that the report in the Journal with that
exception is correct?
The Chairman--As far as I know.
Mr. D’Avignon, seconded by Mr. Watters, moved that the minutes of last
meeting of the Council be accepted as read, the inference being that
they were read from the minutes and not from the Journal.
This was agreed to unanimously.
The Committee on Standing Committees reported as follows:--
Executive and Finance--Mackenzie, Petrie, Slaven, Hall, Hobart.
Education--Jeffrey, D’Avignon, Watters, Petrie, Slaven.
By-laws and Legislation--Hall, Hobart, D’Avignon, McKee, Lawrence.
Infringements--Mackenzie, Watters, Hobart, Lawrence and Saunders.
Mr. Mackenzie thought the whole Council should act on such an important
branch as the Infringement Committee, but Mr. Watters pointed out that
this was contrary to the constitution, which limited the number to five.
Mr. Hall and Mr. Hobart seemed to favour the amendment of Mr. Mackenzie,
stating that it was difficult to cover the districts in any other way
without the appointment of a private prosecutor or detective.
Mr. Jeffrey thought the Council should not undertake such work.
The President sustained the by-law, and ruled Mr. Mackenzie’s motion out
of order.
On the motion of Mr. Watters, seconded by Mr. Hall, the motion to
approve of the committees was carried unanimously.
The council then heard communications, accounts, notices of motion,
educational committee’s report, special committee’s report, regulations
for examiners and applications from apprentices, after which they
adjourned till Wednesday, at 10 o’clock, a.m., the business of
considering the reports being referred to the various committees.
Wednesday Morning.
The Council met at 10 o’clock, President John A. Clark in the chair.
The Chairman read some correspondence he had with Mr. E. R. Beckwith,
Secretary of the State Board of Pharmacy, at Petersburg, Virginia. He
(the Chairman) remarked that there had been a difference of opinion in
the Council regarding the Pharmacy laws. The desire of the writer was
that those who passed the examinations before competent Boards could
pass into and practise in any other State without re-examination, and
that the certificate of the Secretary should suffice. Seventy-five per
cent of marks were suggested as requisite. It was proposed to call a
convention of State delegates to arrange the matter, and that the vote
of two-thirds of those so assembled should be sufficient to give power
to act. He (the Chairman) wrote Mr. Beckwith on June 13, giving him the
names of colleges with whom the Ontario College interchanged
certificates, namely: the Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Massachusetts
and California Colleges, and with the Board of Pharmacy of the City and
County of New York. As regards the scheme of interchange so far, the
States reported as follows: Delaware considered unadvisable; Tennessee,
yes; Nebraska does not favor; Pennsylvania, undesirable; North Carolina,
yes; Michigan and Minnesota, yes.
Mr. A. B. Petrie said that in many of the State Boards four or five men
met together and granted diplomas, while many of the colleges were
private enterprises. While the Ontario College was desirous to raise
the standard, a step of this kind might be injurious if not dangerous.
Mr. G. S. Hobart thought it would prove a benefit to go into the
arrangement as more young men crossed into the United States to practise
than came from the United States to this country.
On the motion of Mr. Andrew Jeffrey, seconded by Mr. H. Watters, the
following resolution was put and carried:
“That the communication of E. B. Beckwith, of Petersburg, Virginia,
referring to the holding of a convention of State and other Boards of
Pharmacy, be received, and the President of the Council be instructed to
watch the proceedings, and if he deems it in the interest of the College
he is hereby empowered to attend such convention.”
Mr. Lewis read the Registrar and Treasurer’s report as follows:--
“I beg to report that since 1st February, 1889, the following
medical practitioners have taken out registration:--Wm. Spencer
Harrison, Brantford; James Switzer Freeborn, Lionshead; R. G.
Montgomery, Forest River, Dakota; W. B. Nisbet, Angus; Alexander M.
McFaul, Staynor; Richard Allan Clark, Ridgetown; D. C. Leitch,
Dutton; George Veitch, Linwood; Declan E. Foley, Westport; John
Cuthbertson Choffut, Keene; Francis Rorke, London; James McDiarmid,
Hensall; Richard R. Hopkins, Grand Valley; Michael Jos. Keene,
Brantford; Francois Xavier Balade, Ottawa; Wm. Alexander Munns,
Thetford; Duncan McEdward, Thetford; Geo. Johnston Dickson,
Desboro’.
“The number of applications for registration has been 123, a small
number of whom have been registered, the balance being kept in
abeyance for the Council to deal with. The numbers of renewals
issued since February 1st, 1889, were as follows: 1 for 1886, 3 for
1887, 54 for 1888, and 551 for 1889, total 609. The register showed
the members in arrears, 86 for 1888, 200 for 1889, as near as I can
judge. The statement of receipts and disbursements showed balance
on hand at the beginning of the year to have been $5,095.94;
receipts, $3,865.23; disbursements, $5,546.81.”
On the motion of Mr. John McKee, seconded by Mr. J. H. Mackenzie, the
reports were received and referred to the Executive Committee.
On the motion of Mr. J. E. D’Avignon, seconded by Mr. H. Watters, a
committee, consisting of Messrs. Jeffrey and Mackenzie, were instructed
to take an inventory of the books and other belongings of the club, with
a view to insurance, which the Chairman remarked should be done without
delay.
On the motion of Mr. J. J. Hall, seconded by Mr. A. B. Petrie, the
Registrar was instructed to have a circular addressed to each man doing
business in the Province as a pharmaceutical chemist, inviting him to
comply with clause 10, sub-section 1 of section 31, being the recent
amendment to the Pharmacy Act passed March last.
Several members thought copies of the whole Act should be sent.
The resolution was passed.
The Chairman suggested that a solicitor should be consulted in the case
of E. M. Pearen who had been asked to be present that day at eleven, but
did not appear.
Mr. D’Avignon alleged that the charge against Mr. Pearen was alleged
forgery, and if that was so, that he should be prosecuted. The fact that
the register of apprentices had been altered would interfere with their
proper registration as druggists afterwards.
Mr. H. Watters--The question is, can we prove it?
The chairman said he concurred with Mr. D’Avignon when he said that a
lawyer should be consulted.
Mr Lewis was reluctant to tell the Council the exact facts, but said he
would inform a lawyer of the whole matter. He felt more annoyed that he
had been beaten, so to speak, by Mr. Pearen than from any other cause.
On the motion of Mr. H. Watters, seconded by Mr. J. E. D’Avignon, the
mover, with Messrs. Petrie and Lewis, were appointed to consult a
solicitor and report.
Mr. J. M. McKee moved, and J. W. Slaven seconded the following
resolution:--
“That whereas the report of the Registrar-treasurer of February 16,
1889, shows that the fees from students of this college for the
past year have been $5,756, of which sum $4,378 by this statement
is due to the professors, and only $1,378 retained by the College,
according to agreement (See Sept. Journal, p. 23), which agreement
we recommended be cancelled, and the Professors forthwith be
notified by Registrar accordingly in view of the rapidly increasing
revenue from students and the large amount of money paid out to the
Professors, we believe we are warranted in readjusting the salaries
so that each of the Professors be paid by the Executive of this
College a definite sum according to work performed. Therefore, be
it resolved, that the Educational, the Executive, and the Finance
Committees do at once confer with the Principal and teaching staff,
and endeavour to make satisfactory arrangements with regard to the
same. Failing to meet this, or arrive at a satisfactory agreement,
that they be further empowered to report as soon as possible upon
some plan whereby such an arrangement can be effected.”
The mover pointed out that when the school first commenced the amount
received by the teachers was only $108. It had been gradually
increasing, and although not doubting the ability of the teachers he
thought each one only had a right to be paid for what he did. He did not
know, however, where they could find another college making so much
profit. Last year there had been a profit of $1,388, which the
matriculation fees had brought up to $1,600. It was a question whether
they could do so with reduced salaries. A cheaper staff might spread an
influence against the college.
Mr. A. B. Petrie said that in Philadelphia the scholars were certainly
attracted by the prestige of the professors, but in Canada they were
obliged to come to the college in any case.
Mr. J. E. D’Avignon pointed out that no one was obliged to come until
after the Act had been passed this year.
Mr. J. W. Slaven pointed out that the institution was now $14,000 in
debt.
The resolution was carried and the Council adjourned at noon.
Wednesday Afternoon.
The Council met at 3.25, Mr. John A. Clark in the chair.
Mr. Watters reported that along with Mr. Petrie he had been to the
office of Messrs. Edgar & Malone, barristers, and saw the former
regarding the case of Mr. Pearen. Mr. Edgar thought the correction made
in the books was necessary in the interests of the young men.
Mr. Watters, therefore, seconded by Mr. Petrie, moved the following
resolution:
“Mr. Pearen not having complied with the request of this Council to
appear before the Board to explain the irregularities with which
his name has been associated, acting on legal advice it is deemed
unadvisable to take any further action in the matter, and it is
hereby resolved that no further action be taken.”
A communication from Messrs. Edgar and Malone, barristers, was filed
along with the resolution stating that in the action of Mr. Pearen, in
regard to the apprenticeship of Mr. John A. Dunbar, there was no
evidence to sustain an action against him under the Pharmacy Act, and
further, that such being the case, no action could be taken under
Section 20, looking to have his name erased from the register, and that
the firm thought it unwise to press matters against Mr. Pearen.
The resolution was carried.
Mr. A. D. Weeks, chemist, Uxbridge, handed in a letter and an
application on behalf of Mr. T. C. Nicholls, B.A., Uxbridge, claiming
clemency of the O.C.P. The Chairman, after Mr. Weeks had been heard,
told him that as was usual in such cases, the application would be
considered by a committee.
An application from John J. Watson, for time served in Hazelton was then
lodged and also remitted to the committee.
The following notice of motion was made: Moved by Mr. John J. Hall,
seconded by Mr. L. T. Lawrence,--
“That the mover hereby gives notice of motion that he will be at
the next semiannual meeting, bring in a by-law to carry out the
provisions of sub-section 3 of section 1 of the amendments in the
Pharmacy Act, passed March, 1887, providing for the holding of the
elections to this Council by districts, and to amend No. 10 in
accordance therewith.”
Mr. Slaven moved, and Mr. McKenzie seconded,--
“That the reports of the Executive and Finance Committees be
adopted. Accounts amounting to $56.35 were passed for payment.”
H. W. Watters moved, Wm. Lawrence seconded, the following resolution:--
(_Continued on page 10_)
SHOP-WINDOW CURES.