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19
symptoms, may or may not be correct. But hitberto
there is no evidence, based upon observation, that
Thames-air can produce Fever.
I take this opportunity of correcting another
erroneous report which has been made a ground for
increasing the public alarm. It has been asserted, and
repeated in several periodicals, that the authorities
have been compelled to shift the Dreadnought from her
accustomed moorings. This statement is not true.
When circumstances require such a step, the medical
staff will not hesitate to recommend its adoption.
Although it has been shown that the emanations
of the Thames even in their greatest concentration have
not produced Fever or Cholera or Diarrhoea in an epidemic
form, I have no desire to overlook the fact, that
many persons, mere passengers, or habitually working
on the river, or in immediate proximity to it, suffered
from nausea, sickness, headache, and depression. But
this circumstance outweighed as it is by the other facts
to which I have adverted, is very far from justifying
the panic that has been fomented. There is an immense
( population floating on the river. There is no evidence
to shew that it has suffered more than temporary
inconvenience.
All that I have here and elsewhere stated in reference
to the influence of the Thames upon health, is
simply a narrative of facts, history. I leave prophecy
to others.