In many complaints, change of scene and association, are justly considered necessary to the restoration of health. It is not only the same in many cases of insanity but absolutely the first and most important step in every system which gives them a chance of restoration. Should then a bare residence in any place for the mere purpose of cure, be accompanied (in very many cases, it is unnecessary,) by an act which is considered as fixing the mark of degradation upon them, any more than it should in any other disease? This, instead of healing, is calculated to crush a heart already breaking; it is often fatal to their recovery! it is a principal cause of frequent relapses! They feel a stigma, thus fixed on their character, so confirming the prejudices of the world, and so encouraging that distressing and fatal look of suspicion towards them, that they are forced to feel that no one reposes any faith in them; and if this feeling does not ultimately destroy all comfort and confidence, all order and stability within them, it must very much weaken that concentration of energy so necessary to the successful exercise of all mental operations; and if their minds are weakened by previous attacks, and not well sustained by right principles, but on the contrary, like many others, merely regulated by worldly principles and considerations, then, they are not only deprived of the rock on which mind is based, but also of all the motives and objects which stimulate to mental action. In this state, what is mind but a sad wreck floating on the fathomless ocean of life, at the mercy of every wind and wave? To what else shall we compare its situation?—It is like a city broken down and without walls, any enemy may enter in, and overthrow it. Can we wonder then that persons whose minds are in this position, and whose prospects in life are thus blasted, should have a recurrence of the same awful visitation? or what is worse, that they should constantly feel their spirits paralyzed, and a melancholy gloom thus thrown over the remainder of their existence! To make it necessary in all cases to have certificates, so far from being a security against abuse, is more likely to be a cloak for those who may wish to take advantage of the patient’s defenceless state; whereas in cases of voluntary seclusion, there can be no risk; for with such honourable confidence, we have at once, the proof and the security that it cannot and will not be abused. These, however, are not the most desirable inmates, as it regards the ease and comfort of the superintendant, and therefore no one can have any other motive in recommending this practice of voluntary seclusion, but that which arises from the conscientious consideration of its being more conducive to cure.