Thus, though I pretend not to speak positively of the details of a subject, which will then only be fully understood when men acquire sense enough simply and unreservedly to discuss it, I may venture to assure my readers, that the main fact is incontrovertible. I shall adduce such facts in proof of this as may occur to me in the course of this investigation. However various and contradictory the different theories of generation, almost all physiologists are agreed, that the entrance of the sperm itself (or of some volatile particles proceeding from it) into the uterus, must precede conception. This it was that probably first suggested the possibility of preventing conception at will. The Author informs us, that among the modes of preventing conception which may have prevailed in various countries, that which has been adopted and practiced by the cultivated classes, on the continent of Europe, by the French, the Italians, and to some extent by the Spaniards and Germans, consists in a complete withdrawal, on the part of the man, immediately previous to emission. This is undoubtedly effectual where it can be done, but as our author remarks, that he can readily imagine, that there are men who, in part from temperament, but much more from their continued habits of unrestrained indulgence, may have so little command over their passions as to find difficulty in practising it, and some there may be who will declare it to be impossible. If there be any to whom it is impossible, Mr. Owen tells us, that he is convinced that the number is exceedingly small. In this, however, the Editor thinks the Author is in error. Numerous facts have come to the Editor’s knowledge which have demonstrated the impracticability of this check, and have convinced him that the number who are physically incapable of profiting by the Author’s recommendation, is much greater than he imagined. It is not unusual to see men, in a fit of anger, lose all self-control. Why, then, should we suppose them capable at all times of exercising restraint over the strongest passion of our nature? Mankind are endued with different degrees of passion. Some never loose that perfect command of their feelings which enables them to profit by the Author’s suggestions, while others differently constituted cannot practice the same forbearance. The Editor knows many affectionate husbands and kind fathers who would most gladly practice the check before mentioned had they the ability to do it.