_In this small Work, the Author has delivered a very brief Outline of
a Natural Systematic Arrangement and Theory of Anatomy, Physiology,
Pathology and of the Materia Medica, as strictly dependent on each other._
_Of this system the tendency is, not to controvert one established fact
of Medical Science, but by pointing out their relations, to simplify, to
consolidate and if possible to increase the amount of our knowledge in
all the departments of Medicine._
_As a work of this kind is a fair object of criticism; to the philosophic
and liberal reviewer I have only to say, that I shall most willingly
submit to his decision. Error is almost inseparable from propositions of
any extent or magnitude, and I have doubtless committed many. But to the
reviewers for the Edinburgh Medical and Surgical Journal, and those of a
London Review under their influence, as they constitute a party somewhat
in opposition to my views, I have to observe, that, should they act
unjustly, as I know them not individually, I must hold their editor, whom
I do know, responsible for their conduct, and I consequently shall do so._
PRELIMINARY LECTURE TO THE COURSE OF ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY; EXHIBITING
THE OUTLINE OF A NATURAL SYSTEM OF THESE SCIENCES.