[MANUSCRIPT SCIENCE AND MEDICINE]

CULLEN, WILLIAM. Cullen's Practice. ?London: 1769-70 (date from spines labels). Three volumes, reverse calf, indicated as volumes 2, 4 and 5 (only) on the spines. 9 1/8 x 7 inches (23.25 x 17.75 cm); manuscript on paper, each volume over 200 ff., written rectos only in a neat formal script. Extensive binding wear. Bookplate of Thomas H. Buckler M.D., presented to him (see volume II) in 1853; together with a brief incomplete set of lecture notes on childbirth. 18th century; A bound volume entitled Clinical Cases on the spine. ?London: 1780s. Quarter calf of the period, spine lettering indicating that this is volume II (only). One or two apparent small excisions; and an interesting French manuscript on physics. Paris? First quarter of the 18th century, approximately 375 pp. written in a neat cursive hand; a section of printed plates by Guillaume Vallet, one dated 1725, bound in at the rear, with two plates in manuscript. Binding very worn, lacking at least the first two leaves and likely more.

The collection of "Clinical Cases" noted above is especially interesting, as it appears to be that of a practicing physician, providing records of his cases with diagnoses (including scrofula, syphilis, phthisis, mania etc.); a day-by-day account of the progression of the ailment; the outcome (cured, died, committed to the surgeons, "goes out by desire" etc.); and, in a few instances, the results of a post-mortem dissection.