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to have taken place than in previous years. Some
mothers were found at other addresses, but many have
entirely escaped.
Two hundred and ninety five babies were re-inspected
between the ages of 4 and 8 months. Forty five per
cent, of these were found to be entirely breast fed, 30
per cent, were partly breast fed, and 25 per cent,
entirely hand fed. Cows' milk was the food chiefly
in use for these hand fed and partly hand fed infants,
but condensed milk (of a good brand), nursery biscuits,
oatmeal, and bread, are also largely used. In no case
was the use of a cheap brand of condensed milk
admitted.
Bottles with rubber tubes were used in 30 cases
only; three women assured me that they bought these
because they were obliged to buy the cheapest they
could get. The practice of feeding from a feedingcup
seems to be growing in favour. “Comforters”
are almost invariably used, though many mothers
promise to dispense with them when the dangers are
pointed out.
The cards of “Advice to Mothers” have been widely
distributed ; but I do not find that they are carefully
kept. They are sometimes given to friends, but one
fears that they are often destroyed. Attention is
directed, however, to the most important points at the
time that they are given; so no doubt they help to
impress these on the mothers’ minds.
Infantile Deaths.
Three hundred and seventy nine infant deaths were
referred to me for investigation involving 439 calls.