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48
that the inspectors had been less diligent than formerly
in the performance of their duties: that, however,
is not the fact. The truth is, that the prevalence of
small-pox rendered it essential for us to take one or
two of the inspectors from their ordinary avocations,
in order that they might devote themselves to the
work of advising and helping in those localities in
which small-pox was known to be present. Cooper
was thus engaged from March 25th, 1871, to April
19th; and again from May 27th to September 26th,
and from December 30th to March 25th, 1872—a
period of 233 days; Waters was then engaged from
April 20th to September 26th, and again from
December 30th to February 6th, 1872—a period of
197 days; during much of which time their services
were solely given to their special duties.
The duties thus devolving on these two inspectors
were as follows: to visit constantly the houses in
which small-pox was present; to give advice and furnish
disinfectants; to see after the removal of smallpox
patients to the hospital, and after the speedy
burial of the dead; and finally to see to and to superintend
the disinfection of infected houses, and the
disinfection or destruction of bedding, articles of
dress, &c. These duties were carried out by them