Page:Quackery Unmasked.djvu/277

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CLERICAL INFLUENCE.
273

and scrupulously regarded. Yet, at the same time, the two classes may labor side by side in the great cause of humanity, and be mutual helpers of each other. Their offices, though distinct, are co-ordinate, and duty often calls them to the same house of mourning and to the bedside of the same expiring patient. No other professions are brought into such close proximity. The duties of no others are fraught with such deep responsibility, or are required on such momentous occasions.

Unfortunately, the members of each profession do not always entertain towards the other such sentiments of respect and kindness as would best promote their own happiness and usefulness. On either side may sometimes be seen a coldness or smothered antipathy; the members of each appear inclined to keep aloof from the other, or to maintain a shy reserve. From such observations, the public may be ready to conclude that they have little confidence in or respect for each other, and both callings are liable to be disparaged, because the public are not