“For ourselves, we have no fear that the truth in reference to the crime of procuring abortion, would do aught but good. It would appear that sheer ignorance in many honest people, is the spring of the horrible intra-uterine murder which exists among us; why not then enlighten this ignorance? It would be far more effectually done by some bold and manly appeal, than by the scattered influence of honorable practitioners alone. Will not the mischief, by-and-by, be all the more deadly, for delaying exposure and attempting relief?
“Whatever estimate may attach to our opinion, we believe that not only ought these things not so to be, but that the public should know it from good authority.”[262]
“This is a topic which ought to be regarded of the highest interest to the profession and the public.”[263]
“It is by far the most important subject before the profession, and in its medical as well as moral bearings, appeals alike to our patriotism and humanity.”[264]
“We think the public have very erroneous ideas of the turpitude of this crime, and we deem it our duty, as conservators both of the public health and morals, to set it in a correct light before them.”[265]
“The question of criminal abortion is doubtless one of extreme difficulty; it is not, however, beyond the reach of the enlightened prudence and the firm will of the authorities. It is a subject of such vital import to society in general, that we feel convinced it cannot but awaken the anxious thought of the persons who, from their position, are entrusted with the application of the laws and the control of public morals.”[266]
Whoever shall succeed in fixing upon it the attention it deserves, “has taken a stand in this matter alike creditable to his head and his heart, and we feel that he will receive the hearty thanks of every true physician.”[267]
“The increasing prevalence of infanticide,” which is but rare compared with criminal abortion, “its dangerous moral influence, the apathy with which so many regard its spread, and the very considerable difficulty in obtaining conviction, call loudly for reform. The question is one of national importance.”[268]
“With this view of the case before us, I suggest it as our imperative duty to direct the attention of legislators to the importance of enacting a statute in conformity thereto.”[269]