Dr. Loughead, the appointed essayist, read an interesting paper upon the Metric System, reviewing the many advantages which might be gained by its adoption by the medical profession.
Dr. D. B. Smith read a report of a case of hysterical blindness (see page [212] of this number), and followed with a verbal report of a very peculiar case of exfoliation of the epidermis.
Remarks on the cases reported were made by Dr. Corlett and others.
Dr. Hitchcock reported a case of malpresentation, in which, by manipulation and the slight aid of forceps, delivery was accomplished with safety to both mother and child.
Dr. Corlett spoke on the method of prescribing the bromide of arsenic. He said the most trustworthy way was the alcoholic solution, which he had been in the habit of diluting it in the strength of one grain to eight ounces of simple elixirs without precipitation. Care must be taken that no water be added before the bromide of arsenic is dissolved in alcohol. Spoke favorably of its use in the class of skin diseases known as nenrose cutanae.
Dr. Ebright reported the case of a man who had swallowed a silver dollar. Dr. Pixley told of a similar disposition of a five franc piece, and Dr. Everhard related a recent attempt by a lady to swallow the gauge of a sewing machine. The three cases terminated favorably, though the last mentioned required the aid of a surgeon.
The chair announced the following as the standing committees for the ensuing year:
Admissions—Drs. D. B. Smith, E. Hitchcock, S. Pixley.
Publication—Drs. B. B. Brashear, T. H. Phillips, H. M. Fisher.
Finance—Drs. T. McEbright, M. M. Bauer, L. P. Proehl.