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Nor is the distinction assumed by Dr. Cullen, between the action of remedies on the Simple and Living solids less hypothetical. Tonics and astringents may certainly exert a beneficial effect upon the animal fibre, but not by any immediate action on its materials, but through the agency of its living principle.—“Medicamentum non agit in cadaver.”

The classification of Dr. Young, although it presents many points of interest and value, is not altogether free from objection; his classes in some instances are perhaps unnecessarily sub-divided, without a sufficient regard to the primary and secondary operations of the substances which they include. The arrangement of Murray has been adopted in the present inquiry, not as being less objectionable, in a general point of view, but as one which from its simplicity, is better calculated, as a frame-work, if I may so express myself, for the display of those particular facts, the knowledge of which I consider essential for the successful administration of medicinal agents, and for the full comprehension of those practical doctrines which it is the exclusive object of this work to inculcate.