"There are three ways to aid man in the accomplishment of his object or wishes. The first is to remove the obstacles to his efforts; the second is to supply him with means best adapted to enable him to effect his purpose, and the third is to inspire him to exert all his own power and potencies in the right direction.
"In all cases of disease, there are, in the diseased parts, obstacles to the free and universal action of the nerves and circulating vessels, which the vital force is endeavoring to remove. The whole science of physiology consists in the knowledge of the character and uses of the organs and powers of the system; that of pathology so far as it is a science, in the knowl-
24 THOMSONIAN SYSTEM
edge of its conditions and wants; and the whole art of practice of medicine lies in the knowledge of the modes and the means of supplying the wants. In some cases, Nature requires but one, in others, two of the aids above indicated; in others, all. In some cases, all can be applied and supplied, by one means; in others, more are required.
"The Physio-Medical school commends the use of heat and moisture, bland diffusive stimulants, innocent astringents, of the character that may be taken in perfect health, in all the ways and to the extent ever required in disease, without seriously deranging the physiological state. Thousands of means and many processes are of this character, and may be used almost indifferently; but some of the best have been selected, as those that may be relied upon, since with them alone disease is treated and cured with as much directness and certainty as philosophical and chemical experiments are performed.
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