LUNATIC ASYLUMS IN BENGAL.
29
Cures.
Deaths.
ratio to strength. The number of cures was below the average of the past ten years, both
actually and in relation to strength. The number discharged improved was also rather less, but
the relation to strength a little better. The number discharged " otherwise," mostly escapes, has
undergone a satisfactory reduction. The death-rate continues high. Dr. Wise enters fully into
this subject, and gives a detailed account of each fatal case. The inference which he draws,
that the unusual prevalence of pulmonary affections is due to the overcrowded state of the
asylum, cannot be resisted. This has been repeatedly represented during the year.
Lunatics
from
Cachar and Julpi-
goree.
50. The disproportionate number of lunatics received from the Cachar district has
already been alluded to, and an inquiry into the subject suggested. I would also invite
attention to what Dr. Wise writes on the subject of lunatics sent from the district of
Julpigoree.
Attendants.
51. Notwithstanding the increase in the wages of attendants mentioned in last report,
(paragraph 41) Dr. Wise reports that it is still difficult to obtain good men for the money.
A proposal to increase the number of the establishment is at present under the consideration
of Government.
Accounts of the
asylum.
52. Dr. Wise gives a full and clear report of the cost of the institution and of the
industries with which the insanes are occupied, and their financial value. As in the Dullunda
Asylum, the institution is beginning to supply itself with articles of food and clothing. There
can be no objection to showing the value of these in a special account; but it would render
the accounts of asylums incapable of comparison with each men if the system of separate
industrial funds and separate industrial accounts were permitted.
Warming.
53. The efforts which have been made to preserve the lunatics from the effects of cold,
by placing stoves in the wards of the hospital, and clothing the patients better, appear to have
caused a reduction of bowel complaints.
Overseer.
54. Mr. Blackwell, the overseer, resigned his appointment in February, and Mr. Caval-
lieri was appointed in his place. (Government letter No. 747, dated 23rd February 1872.)
He has given much satisfaction. The native doctor continues to give satisfaction. I fully
endorse Dr. Wise's remarks regarding his pay.
Inspection.
55. Deputy Inspector-General of Hospitals, H. B. Buckle, C. B., inspected this asylum
on the 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, and 21st November. He remarks:—" The asylum was in very
good order. The general air of cheerfulness and content exhibited by the inmates is very
striking. They are most kindly treated; their peculiarities are studied, and work such as they
can do provided, with occasional amusement. The garden, and working the garden appear to
be sources of pleasure to the insane; and, with one or two rare exceptions, there is none of
that moping melancholy which is so distressing among the insanes; but by kindness and
encouragement they are gradually led to employ themselves in the same manner.''
Overcrowding.
Mr. Buckle comments on the overcrowded state of the asylum, remarking that each
male patient has only 32.13 superficial feet of ground space. The conduct of the overseer
and native doctor is commended.
H