The National Intelligencer And Washington Advertiser

From the New-York Morning Chronicle
Communication.

Liberal effort for the promotion of Science.

The great discoveries that have of late been made in Galvanism, have attracted the attention of all the learned world. In Europe, it has been found, that the subtle agent, set in action by contiguous metallic plates, is capable of producing most remarkable effects. The decomposition of water, and the calcination of Metals, are two remarkable proofs of its power over inanimate matter. But its influence is not limited to the lifeless parts of creation, Galvanism has an astonishing operation upon living beings, and upon none more remarkable than upon the human frame. From such a stimulus, so gentle, and withal so pervading, so insinuating and diffusive, it has reasonably been supposed, that great succour might be derived to the healing art.

The advantage which the Galvanic fluid promised originally to medicine, is not hypothetical nor illusory. Experience has already demonstrated its efficacy, in various morbid states of the body—and it is now a truth which fears not the risk of contradiction, that diseases have been cured by its wholesome and reasonable application.

But judgment and discrimination are necessary to determine when and in what cases Galvanism will be of service. The citizens of New-York and the writer of this Communication have learned, that its almost indiscriminate application has been productive of disadvantage in one case, of disappointment in others, and of a doubt and distrust in the mind of many persons who were friends to the remedy, and who wished it success.

To ensure a fair trial to this newly discovered agent, to select the cases for which it appears best adapted, to apply the Galvanic influence to such only as seem likely to be benefitted by it, to an exact register of the practice with this remedy, to know exactly and fully its value, as an article of the Materia Medica and what good it is capable of doing, under the management of skill and science, and to give the citizens of New-York and its vicinity an opportunity of reaping the full benefits of the Galvanic practice, an association of physicians has been formed. We learn it is their intention to erect a Galvanic pile of the best materials, and according to the most modern improvements. To this which is to be in a central and convenient part of the city, persons will be admitted who are inclined to try its efficacy. And to prevent the impropriety of receiving it in cases where it's not indicated, this society of medical characters will previously examine the patient, and give an opinion as to the fitness of his case for the Galvanic practice.

By these means a Galvanic society will be formed in New-York, with a Galvanic pile at their command and under their auspices, a regular course of practice will be undertaken and pursued.

We are happy to learn that by the request of the association and friends of the Galvanic institution, Mr. Carenderfer, a gentleman who unites the character of a man of science with that of a practical artist, has consented to superintend the establishment, and to direct the administration of the remedy.