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the severity of all other diseases, by having adequate ventilation, I
hope shortly to see every dwelling of the poor in the District, though
debarred from his other comforts, on a footing in this respect with his
wealthier neighbours. Clausing and drainage are all good as far as
they go, and no one can find fault with white-washing too much; but,
after all this, I could point to many cases of the kind, where, on the
first outbreak of an epidemic, say fever, and those abodes may, peradventure,
in the absence of better ventilation, turn out to be but so
many "whited sepulchres. "*
I have personally inspected 1,203 houses during the past year.
39 slaughter-houses have come under my supervision, in conjunction
with Mr. Scott, and 30 cow-houses In only 2 instances was it
found necessary to interpose a temporary objection to the renewal of
the licenses.
Notices served for sanitary improvements during the year 400
Traps and pans fixed, and cess pools filled up
Cess-pools emptied 20
Cleansing and lime-washing 293
Upper sashes made moveable, on recommendation 56
Total 858
From this, it will be seen that a great deal has been done, but I
cannot conceal the truth that very much more remains for improvement.
The large amount of zymotic mortality is not at all satisfactory.
I hope, shortly, to see it reduced to something like its normal proportions.
This can only be accomplished by constant vigilant supervision
of the localities where these diseases, from time to time, shall arise.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your most obedient Servant,
THOMAS ORTON,
Medical Officer of Health to the Limehouse
District Board of Works.
1863.
• Since this Report has been in print, I am gratified to add, that on an appeal
by me to the Magistrate, with the sanction of the Board, it has been decided that
ventilation shall be improved by the upper sashes being made moveable, or some
equally adequate arrangements.—T. 0.