THE SALE OF DRUGS.
[To THE EDITOR OP THE " SPECTATOR." J
SIR,—As a clergyman, working in a parish chiefly composed of residents with good and large incomes, I am writing to say how glad I am to see that the Spectator has taken up the subject of " Self-drugging." I am only desirous in asking you to publish this short letter to add my testimony to the widespread and rapidly increasing habit. One cannot but agree in every respect with the excellent letters which have already appeared. I can only say that, unfortunately, it is no uncommon experience to find in such a parish as this lives being wasted and homes ruined by the habit of taking such drugs as veronal, sulphonal, trional, &c. Great efforts have been made to suppress the evils of drunkenness, and it is apparent to all how much good has been done by public opinion, and most especially on the part of the medical profession. It is surely not too much to ask that at least the dangers of taking such drugs may be made known. From my experience I am convinced that the habit is to a very great extent begun in ignorance. One friend will tell another "that he or she has been ordered one of the above drugs ; that it is perfectly harmless because it can be bought anywhere and without a medical prescription." Thus the habit commences. Would it be impossible for doctors, when it is necessary to order such drugs, to tell the patient of their harmful effects when taken without medical advice? This would be one way, though a small one, of letting people know of the dangerous character of the drug they are dealing with. The medical profession know how great the evil is, and are anxious themselves that steps should be taken to hinder it. Let them stir up public opinion by dispelling the present ignorance. It would make the way easier for legislation against drugs now sold as perfectly harmless. Then, again, those who have votes might also approach their candidates on the subject. All—doctors, chemists, and the public—are at one in the matter, only no one moves. No real strong voice is heard against it as against, e.g., drunkenness. It is with gratitude, then, to the Spectator that I find it has opened its columns to correspondence on the subject.—I am, Sir, &c.,
CLERICUS.
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