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13
The diminution of mortality from Zymotic diseases has
already been remarked; and as the number of deaths was
precisely the same as in the previous year, it is natural
that some inquiry should be instituted as to the manner in
which the number was made up—what other diseases have
been in such excess, that, with a reduced mortality from
disease which is more or less controllable, the number of
deaths has been maintained—allowance having been made
for a year's growth of population.
Fever, to begin with special contagious diseases, has
been fatal in 44 instances—54 such cases having been
registered in the previous year—the average number of
the preceding three years being within a fraction of 51.
The localization of Fever is always a matter of interest,
no less than its type. In the South Ward it was predominant,
the Centre next, the North and West having an
equal number, and the East being the lowest.
It will be remembered that some uneasiness was created
by a statement some months since in a local newspaper that
Fever was prevalent and rife in the East Ward. There
were, doubtless, some cases of Fever in the portion of the
district which was named; but the account I have here
given will point out the advantage of relying on the actual
returns rather than on individual observation or experience.
A sensible diminution in the deaths from Small Pox will
be observed on examining the Table, the reduction being
from 33 to 15. The disease itself, without regarding the
mortality attending it, I think I am justified in stating to be
at an end, so far as regards its epidemic form, possibly from
the field of its influence being restricted by many of the
unvaccinated having been attacked by the disease, and also
perhaps by the remainder having taken just alarm, and