An Interesting and Scientific Fact
By O. S. Fowler
A FEW years ago a call was issued from London, England, to the scientists of the world to assemble for the discussion of whatever scientific subjects might be presented, every statement to undergo most rigid scrutiny. One member said, “Tobacco is not injurious. I have chewed it for fifty years, and my father chewed it for sixty years, without perceptible damage. All this hue and cry about it is nonsense.” The actuary answered, “Step forward, sir, and let us canvass this matter thoroughly. How much do you chew?” “I chew regularly three quids a day, of about this size,” cutting them from his plug. One was given to a Russian and another to a French chemist, with, “Please return their extracts.” Then the actuary said, “Will any young man unaccustomed to the use of tobacco, chew this third quid before the audience? Here are twenty dollars to any one who will.” A young man stepped forward. The audience were requested to scan his looks, cheeks, eyes, and general appearance, before he took it, and closely watch its effects. He soon became pale from sickness, then vomited, and anon fainted before the assembly. The extract from one quid was given to a powerful tom-cat. He flew wildly round, and then and there died. The other extract was put upon the tongue of a premium dog, which uttered a yelp, leaped frantically, lay down, and expired. These facts took place before the world. They are recorded in the most scientific repository of this century or any other, in a volume which cost twenty dollars a copy. Every consumer of tobacco in either form is a practical witness that these are its precise effects, by his own initiation to its use.—From 'Life: Its Factors, Science, and Culture,' by O. S. Fowler, LL. D.