On rabies

Numerous as are the communications upon the subject of rabies, the paucity of experimental investigation is remarkable; the disease has remained for upwards of 2000 years, since the first recorded mention of it by Aristotle, exceedingly obscure in many essential points. The unparalleled and variable length of its incubation period has offered the greatest obstacle to systematic examination; in the words of John Hunter in the last century,“ It has defied alike scientific investigation as to its intimate nature, and all remedial measures for its successful treatment.” Lately, however, the results announced to have been attained by M. Pasteur, have promised to remove these obstacles, and encouraged research by new methods and with fresh views.