be suddenly and
unexpectedly jeopardized, and immediate relief prove necessary. While
under these circumstances the prompt application of such domestic
treatment as good common-sense may dictate, guided by a knowledge of
those first principles of medical learning which we shall hereafter
endeavor to make plain, may result in speedy and happy relief, yet at
the same time there should be no delay in summoning a competent
physician to the bedside of the sufferer.

Then, and not the least important, there are the various chronic or
lingering diseases, from all of which few individuals indeed, who pass
the meridian of life, entirely escape. In this class of ailments there
is generally no immediate danger, and, therefore, time may be taken by
the invalid for studying his disease and employing those remedies which
are best suited for its removal. Or, if of a dangerous or complicated
character, and, therefore, not so readily understood, he may consult
either personally or by letter, some learned and well-known physician,
who makes a specialty of the treatment of such cases, and whose large
experience enables him to excel therein.

In consideration, therefore, of the foregoing facts, we deem it most
profitable for our readers that Part Fourth of this volume should be
arranged in the following manner:

The milder forms of uncomplicated, acute diseases, which may be readily
and unmistakably recognized, and successfully managed without
professional aid, will receive that attention which is necessary to give
the reader a correct idea of them, and their proper remedial treatment.

We shall devote only such attention to the severe and hazardous forms of
acute diseases as is necessary in order to consider their initial stage,
with their proper treatment, not attempting to trace their numerous
complications, or portray the many pathological conditions which are
liable to be developed. For, even by devoting much space to the latter,
we could not expect to qualify our unprofessional readers for
successfully treating such obscure and dangerous conditions.

We shall devote the largest amount of space to a careful and thorough
consideration of those chronic diseases, which, by a little study, may
be readily recognized and understood by the masses, and for the cure of
which we shall suggest such hygienic treatment and domestic remedies as
may be safely employed by all who are in quest of relief. In the more
dangerous, obscure, or complic