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8
are small pox and measles. Small pox which alarmed the public
mind in 1859-60 by its ravages, has latterly become little fatal.
There have been, however, during the year 14 deaths from it; in
eight of the cases they were unprotected by vaccination, while three
of the others were doubtful. Vaccination has been pursued with
earnestness by the medical officers, and always encouraged by medical
gentlemen in private practice.
Measles has raged as an epidemic throughout London during the
past year. There were 68 deaths from it in this District; 10 of
which occurred in the Workhouse for children at Limehouse.
There were 70 attacked, so that bearing in mind the circumstances
under which many find their way in such a place, it is a percentage
by no means large.
Of the 140 inquests referred to in Table I, and particularised
in Class 15 of Table II, it will be seen that 16 were from suffocation in
bed at night, or as it is termed "overlaid." As a general rule, it will
be found that these accidents occur on a Saturday or Sunday night, a
circumstance to which I have repeatedly alluded. Suspicions are
beginning to be awakened to an impression that these deaths are not
always accidental; it is not however an easy thing to establish this,
or the contrary. When public opinion shall cast something like a
slur on the principals in these cases, then they will begin to cease.
There were 2 deaths from scurvy on board ships in 1860, which
came under the inquisition of the Coroner. The last was in the Brig
"Cowslip, " in the London Dock; the evidence from the enquiries I
have instituted went to prove, in the treatment of the crew, that there
had been the grossest violation of the Mercantile Marine Act. By
this law a definite amount of space is required for each seaman; the
kind ot provisions is pointed out, with the extra support, if procurable,
made imperative in the event of the breaking out of scurvy, &c., tire.
But it was very revolting to hear the details of the treatment of the
men on board, and how in every way the humane requirements of the
Act had been set at defiance. Had the man died a day earlier he
would have found the same grave as two others who were out at sea;
and the public would not have heard of the doings on board the
"Cowslip, partially provisioned with old ships' stores on a voyage
out to Aden.