An Introduction to the Study of Animal Magnetism

Upwards of thirty physicians were thus denounced, among them M. Donglé, a docteur-régent, who has given the following account of his interview with these scientific autocrats:

"Each of the magnetizing physicians received a special summons; almost all appeared and were sent into a separate chamber from the judges. Each waited with impatience for his summons and walked up and down, wondering what was going to happen. At length the usher appeared, and I was first summoned, having that honor as the eldest of the company. I entered, much surprised at not finding myself followed by any of my companions. I was requested to be seated, and the dean began by inquiring if I had paid anything for the instruction I had received in magnetism. Surprised at this question, I answered that M. Deslon did not receive money; that he only admitted medical men to observe and assist him; that he was in the highest degree respectable, modest, and obliging; and that of this the faculty were not ignorant. I was interrogated like a criminal, and I imagined myself transported to the Great Hall of La Tournelle A notorious criminal court in Paris.. They at length concluded by presenting me with a paper which I did not consider myself at liberty to sign. I declined signing it, and I assured the faculty, as a proof of my zeal and deference, that I had not yet discovered in this method a sufficient degree of utility to induce me to make any report on it."*

This inquisitorial interview between the physician, already pre-judged, and his court of accusers, was...

*From a pamphlet titled, “Rapport au publique de quelques abus auxquels le Magnétisme a donné lieu” (Report to the Public on Certain Abuses to which Magnetism Has Given Rise). By M. Donglé, Docteur-Régent. Paris, 1785.