[23] "We shall use the general term of methodism, to designate these three classes of fanatics, [Arminian and Calvinistic methodists, and the _evangelical_ clergymen of the church of England] not troubling ourselves to point out the finer shades, and nicer discriminations of lunacy, but treating them all as in one general conspiracy against common sense, and rational orthodox christianity."--_Edinburgh Review, Jan. 1808, p. 342._ [24] Traite Medico-Philosophique sur l'Alienation Mentale, 8vo. Paris, an. 9, p. 47. [25] The late Reverend Dr. Willis. [26] With respect to the persons, called Keepers, who are placed over the insane, public hospitals have generally very much the advantage. They are there better paid, which makes them more anxious to preserve their situations by attention and good behaviour: and thus they acquire some experience of the disease. But it is very different in the private receptacles for maniacs. They there procure them at a cheaper rate; they are taken from the plough, the loom, or the stable; and sometimes this tribe consists of decayed smugglers, broken excisemen, or discharged sheriffs' officers: "All that at home no more can beg or steal." How well such a description of persons is calculated to regulate and direct the conduct of an insane gentleman may be easily conjectured. If any thing could add to the calamity of mental derangement, it would be the mode which is generally adopted for its cure. Although an office of some importance and great responsibility, it is held as a degrading and odious employment, and seldom accepted but by idle and disorderly persons. [27] Vide Cullen, First Lines, vol. iv. p. 154. [28] "_D'uno luogo chiamato Timarahane, dove si castigano i matti._