Official communications were addressed to this body by the National Temperance Society, through its president, Hon. Wm. E. Dodge, by the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union, through its president, Mrs. Annie Wittenmyer, and by the New York Friends’ Temperance Union, asking from it a declaration as to the true character of alcohol and its value in medicine.

The following is the full text of the memorial of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union: 

To the Chairman and Members of the International Medical Congress: 

“HONORED SIRS:—­I take the liberty, as a representative of the Woman’s National Christian Temperance Union of the United States, to call your attention to the relation of the medical use of alcohol to the prevalence of that fearful scourge, intemperance.

“The distinguished Dr. Mussey said, many years ago:  ’So long as alcohol retains a place among sick patients, so long there will be drunkards.’

“Dr. Rush wrote strongly against its use as early as 1790.  And at one time the College of Physicians at Philadelphia memorialized Congress in favor of restraining the use of distilled liquors, because, as they claimed, they were ’destructive of life, health and the faculties of the mind.’

“‘A Medical Declaration,’ published in London, December, 1872, asserts that ’it is believed that the inconsiderate prescription of alcoholic liquids by medical men for their patients has given rise, in many instances, to the formation of intemperate habits.’  This manifesto was signed by over two hundred and fifty of the leading medical men of the United Kingdom.  When the nature and effects of alcohol were little known, ft was thought to be invaluable as a medicine.  But in the light of recent scientific investigations, its claims have been challenged and its value denied.

“We are aware that the question of the medical use of alcohol has not been fully decided, and that there is a difference of opinion among the ablest medical writers.  But we notice that as the discussion and investigation goes on, and the new facts are brought out, its value as a remedial agent is depreciated.

“A great many claims have been brought forward in its favor, but one by one they have gone down under the severe scrutiny of scientific research, until only a few points are left in doubt.  In view of this, and the startling fact that tens of thousands die annually from its baneful effects, we earnestly urge you to give the subject a careful examination.

“You have made the study of the physical nature of man your life-work, and you are the trusted advisers of the people in all matters pertaining to the treatment of diseases and the preservation of life and health.

“You are, therefore, in a position to instruct and warn the masses in regard to its indiscriminate use, either as a medicine or a beverage.

“We feel sure that, true to your professional honor, and the grave responsibilities of your distinguished position, you will search out and give us the facts, whatever they may be.