[ ix ]
This, and the advice of some judicious friends to endeavour to prevent the ill effects of prejudice, made me resolve to attempt such an alteration as might be better suited, at this time, to the customs and circumstances of the people.
The preceeding plan I have ever since constantly followed, to my entire satisfaction, and I hope to that of my patients. Truth requires of me to acknowledge to the public, that I have always found, as far as my practice has hitherto given me an opportunity of judging, that the insinuation, which has been made to deter me from this mode of practice, viz. that people are too narrow minded here, and show no generosity to a physician, only employing a doctor because he is cheap or lives near to them, is utterly groundless. In most instances I have found their generosity has much exceeded my expectations.
One article more I have to mention under this head. It may frequently happen, in visiting my friends and acquaintance who employ me in their families, that themselves, their children or servants, may have flight complaints, for which they would be glad to have advice, but do not think them of importance enough to call in a physician, who may expect fees for little ailments. Such persons may always command my advice in these matters without a fee.
