Chapter II: Part 2

Corns and bunions demand a good deal of attention. There are many kinds of corn plasters and several “miraculous cures,” which are all “painless, simple and speedy,” and which secure “ease, comfort and good temper.” One proprietor of a miraculous cure is so enthusiastic that he breaks out into doggerel--

If corn or bunion trouble you, of this you may be sure,
That free from pain you soon will be by using ----’s cure.

After this the man who merely advertises a corn rubber is nowhere. We were, however, under the impression that corns originated from pressure or friction, and that the only radical cure was removing that pressure or friction after the corn, if very large, had been taken out. Toothache, being so common, has, of course, a number of cures. A sufferer would dare a good deal to appease the hideous throes of toothache, and when plaintively asked, “Why sutler from toothache when you can cure it by using the toothache pencil?” would certainly try this, that or the other remedy before facing the dentist. But, alas! the dentist’s chair is the ultimate fate of the person with an aching tooth, and he may be happy if on leaving the dentist he carries his tooth--in his jaw--along with him. Nervous debility seems almost as responsible as toothache or corns for certain cures. Among the hundreds o’ medicines devoted to nervous debility there are “best brain tonics,” “botanic pick-me-ups,” “golden medical discoveries,” “damiana wafers,” and “syrups” of all kinds. Liver complaints and digestive imperfections are also well supplied. “Candies” and “jujubes,” _cum multis aliis_, are all very good for liver and digestion--at least so say the proprietors. There is one advertiser who, having announced, “Remove the cause and the effect will cease,” soars boldly above his compeers, and announces, “Head, stomach and liver pills!” It is, however, in the domains of surgery that shop-window cures are most pronounced. “Another leg saved!” “Another hand saved!” “Another toe saved!” by a certain ointment and pills is boldly announced. If all is correctly stated with reference to this new ointment and pills, Professor Holloway is outdone. Cancers are exhibited, diseased bone is shown, and corns are produced, all cured by this wonderful ointment. Bills are also distributed purporting to be the history of cures. One begins, “A boy threw a stone and hit him on the finger over six years ago.” The remainder of the account may be transferred into, “Affliction sore long time he bore, physicians were in vain,” until he was cured by the pills and ointment. Now this was evidently a case of scrofulous disease of the bones, always most tedious, and recovery _post_ is not _propter_. We close the list by mentioning first “Oriental pills.” Why they are called Oriental pills we do not know, and what they are for we cannot ascertain. The name is curious, for pills in the East, unless introduced by Europeans, are as rare as snakes in Iceland. And, secondly, a cure for chilblains called “Chimethloplastron!” What it means we do not know. And we do not take to it--for the word does not come trippingly from the tongue like the blessed Mesopotamia.

It has been said that faith in the doctor is half the battle. Shop-window cures, however, require more than faith; they demand credulity. Nothing catches a man more than a pretended confidence; and of this among vendors of medicines, patent or not patented, there is no lack. It is astonishing how one is able to persuade oneself into a belief in accordance with one’s wishes. Barnum’s definition of a humbug was, “A man who gives you your money’s worth, but induces you to deal with him by some plausible tale connected with his goods.” Shakespeare asked, “Can’st thou not cleanse the stuffed bosom of that perilous stuff which bears upon the heart?” This is not to be done by nostrums, and not always by doctors. Notwithstanding the vigorous declarations of vendors of nostrums, they do not appear quite sure of themselves. For the names of eminent medical men are freely used--among others, those of Brodie, Blundell, Jenner, Clark. This recalls to mind an anecdote of the Duke of Wellington and Dr. Locock. Meeting one day the Duke said, “Confound you, Locock! I’ve almost poisoned myself by taking your pulmonic wafers!” “Ah!” answered Locock, “and I have lamed myself by wearing Wellington boots!”--_Globe in C. and D._

CANADIAN TARIFF CHANGES.

Alizarine, blood albumen, arseniate, bi-arseniate, chlorate and stannate of soda, tannic acid, tartar emetic, chlorate of potash crystals, gum gedda, gum barberry, grey tartar, fustic extract and quercitron or extract of oak bark, when imported by the manufacturers of cotton and woolen goods for use in their own factories only; and grey tartar, fustic extract, and quercitron or extract of oak bark, for the manufacture of colours, are admitted free of Customs duty until the end of the next session of Parliament.

Sulphate of alumina and alum cake, used as a substitute for alum by paper-makers, are placed on the list of articles that may be imported into Canada free of Customs duty.

Sumac, when imported to be used for dyeing or tanning purposes, i.e., manufacturing purposes, not further manufactured than crushed or ground, is placed on the list of articles that may be imported into Canada free.

Camwood, when imported to be used for dyeing or tanning purposes, i.e., manufacturing purposes, not further manufactured than crushed or ground, is also placed on the list of free articles.

A HANDSOME DRUG STORE.

A thing of beauty is a joy forever, and we hope Mr. E. D. Martin, of Ottawa, will long enjoy a successful business in the new premises he has just removed to at the corner of Rideau and Cumberland Streets.

Mr. Martin is one of Ottawa’s most enterprising and successful druggists and in the fitting up of his new store he has displayed great taste.

The front store is 50×30 and has two entrances and is lighted by three large plate-glass windows; the ceiling is of polished wood, the floor of granolithic tiles of mosaic pattern; the fixtures are walnut; the counters, two in number, each eighteen feet long, are embellished with show cases, and the handsome show cases on tables occupy positions in the centre of the store. At the further end of the store standing in the centre of an arch ten feet wide is a very fine dispensing case behind which is the dispensing room fitted up with two sets of dispensing scales and in duplicate all the appurtenances necessary for the carrying on of this important part of his business, and though we did not see any of Dr. Brown Sequard’s Elixir of Life, we can imagine the grim “Old Reaper” giving his scythe an extra whet when he sees Mr. Bray, the genial assistant, hand out a bottle of medicine to an invalid on whom he has fixed his eye.

Adjoining the dispensing room is Mr. Martin’s private office where he deliberates over his books--day, ledger, bank, and wants,--and we hope the two last will always be in a state of congestion. It is here, too, he has a vacant chair, not always vacant, however. I notice it is a little worn already, for the ubiquitous traveller in search for orders he always welcomes cordially, and as his trade is a large one, he usually has the satisfaction of seeing a grateful smile suffuse the countenance of that “noble Bohemian” as he wishes him good-bye.

ON TIME.

A want of punctuality is a fault in a business man that cannot be offset by any other good qualities. It will be constantly causing serious loss of time, money and temper to those who deal with him, and will naturally lead them to look elsewhere for their supplies. Nothing short of an utter impossibility should cause one to neglect the fulfilment of an engagement, or to be behindhand in filling an order.

When the great warehouses of an extensive provision merchant were smoking in ruins, he at once made out a circular and sent it to all who were expecting orders filled, stating that a fire on the premises had caused a delay, but that the next day they expected to dispatch all the goods ordered. It required all the energies of a masterly mind to accomplish the task, and all the hands he could bring to bear upon the business, but it was done, and his many customers had the inconvenience of but a day’s delay. It was a part of the man’s religion, as well as his business science, to keep no one waiting. That was but one of his many strong points, but they were all of the same reliable character. No wonder he rose to a true and substantial greatness in his chosen line. It is very hard turning over a new leaf in this particular, so it is a good plan to begin right. Prompt, punctual boys are apt to make the same kind of men, and vice versa.

You know that you “boys” are to be the future merchants of the land, however small the chances seem for it now. “The posts of time run swift,” and soon one and another will be dropping a line to this department, telling of their small start in business on their own hook. They will be sure of congratulations and good wishes all around, which will be cheering and inspiring, and so far real help to the worker. The habits he is forming while a clerk will, however, decide more than anything else his future success or failure.

If one has fallen into careless, unmethodical habits in any of his affairs, the only safe course is to “right about face.” The earlier, the easier. Self-interest alone would prompt such a course as well as honesty towards his employer.--[American Grocer.

NECESSITY FOR DISCRETION.

Though occasionally it might prove to be of value for the commercial traveller to hint in an off-hand way that he has received orders from other firms in the same town, still it would be the height of stupidity to tell the fact right out, as many of the brotherhood are in the habit of doing, that Mr. John Smith, for example, has to-day bought goods at such or such a price, and mentioning all the particulars of the sale, with the addition that the man solicited, if he will give the order, shall get the same article at a much lower rate. Any one who has an eye to business can in a moment see what this talk means. Besides, the commercial traveller who adopts such mistaken measures in his attempt to do business, will certainly lose the confidence of the man addressed, for no sensible person can think otherwise than that the agent would say exactly the same thing to a third and fourth customer as to the first and second. Without doubt a customer has the right to feel sure that the amount of his order and the price he paid for goods will not be made known to any business competitor, and he certainly would be little disposed to give his orders to an agent who shows a readiness to gossip about the affairs of neighboring merchants.

The commercial traveller who is wise will either avoid talk about purchases made of him in the place where he is doing business, or will say very little, always avoiding in this case the mention of details. And this even when questions are asked about them, for, though they may be pleased for the moment at having their curiosity satisfied, people will, as a rule, look with suspicion upon the imprudent discloser of other people’s business, believing, and not unjustly, that such a man would manifest the same willingness to reveal their secrets to others. Discretion in business matters will probably have its reward in the esteem of others, which readily develops into their confidence.

“Your Committee appointed to examine the claims of W. R. Austin and others to apprenticeship registration under the Pharmacy Act of 1884, recommends that their request be granted, and that all similar requests addressed to the Registrar be similarly treated.”

Mr. A. Jeffrey moved, and Mr. McGregor seconded,--

“That in any case where the presence of the Executive or other members of this Council is required in Toronto or elsewhere to attend upon the work of the College, that they be paid their actual expenses out of the funds of the College.”--Carried.

The Principal of the College sent a communication acknowledging receipt of a quantity of apparatus and books from Henry Watters, Esq., Ottawa. On the motion of Mr. J. J. Hall, seconded by Mr. Lawrence, Mr. Watters was thanked for the donation.

The Council adjourned at 4.15 until 10 a.m. Thursday morning.

Thursday Morning.

The Council met at 10.30, Mr. John A. Clark in the chair.

A representative of the CANADIAN DRUGGIST, who was present, lodged with the registrar an application on behalf of Mr. Dyas, proprietor of that paper, for access to the various reports made at the semiannual meeting. The chairman stated the request to the meeting, and after a brief discussion the following resolution was, on the motion of Mr. A. B. Petrie, seconded by Mr. McKee, unanimously passed:--

“That the request of Mr. Dyas, of the CANADIAN DRUGGIST, to be allowed to obtain full reports of this meeting, be granted.”

The report of the By-laws and Legislation Committee was read, and, on the motion of Mr. Hall, seconded by Mr. McGregor, they were received.

The meeting adjourned at 11.30, until three o’clock.

Thursday Afternoon.

The Council met at 3.45, Mr. John A. Clark in the chair. All were present except Mr. G. S. Hobart. The Council went into committee of the whole on the motion of Mr. Clark, seconded by Mr. McKee, on the report of the By-laws and Legislation Committee, Mr. Lawrence in the chair.

On clause 1, Mr. Watters moved that the name of J. W. McEachern be inserted as employer.--Agreed. Clauses 2 and 3, dealing with applications, were passed without discussion. Clause 4 having been reached, the chairman read several letters from George B. Dingman, Buffalo, asking what had been done regarding his application for a diploma. In his first try Mr. Dingman had been successful in all subjects except dispensing, but had since passed in that subject. Mr. Sanders, at whose request the correspondence was read, thought the explanations made sufficient, and the clause was passed.

Discussion arose over clause 5, from the fact that the applicant, Mr. A. W. Caton, admitted having been out of business since 1887. Mr. D’Avignon thought Mr. Caton wanted to set his wife up in business, and by saying that on paying up his arrears he would be admitted was paramount to saying that his wife would not. The clause was passed. Clauses 6 and 7 were passed. On clause 8 Registrar Lewis stated that recently he had an application from an apprentice of Hargreaves Bros., of whom one member had not paid fees. Four dollars was still claimed for one of their branches.

Mr. Sanders thought the precedent in McGregor & Parks’ case should not rule.

It was explained that three of the Hargreaves had interest in one store and only two in another, and when they made this application they had three businesses.

After further discussion progress was reported, and, on the motion of Mr. Hall, the report, as also the report of the Committee on By-laws, was referred back for amendment. The following is the gist of the reports as finally adopted:--

“Your Committee on By-laws and Legislation make the following
recommendations: (1) Referring to the two letters of A. L. Foster,
of Ottawa, advise that the registrar be instructed to write him,
that there being no evidence before the committee that the
apprentice did indenture himself as stated it would be necessary
for him to send affidavits, duly sworn to by the apprentice and his
employer, Mr. J. W. McEachern, proving his cases, and that when
received we feel disposed to comply with the request. (2) In the
matter of Alfred Wilson, of Radcliffe Infirmary, and the
corroborative letter of Richard Bremridge, we recommend the
registrar be instructed to write to Mr. Wilson that if he can
produce to this Council satisfactory evidence that he is a
pharmaceutical chemist of Great Britain, he may register. (3) In
the case of W. S. McClintock, of Galva, Ill., we advise that the
registrar be instructed to write him that our by-laws prevent the
Council recognising his claim for registration, as he has failed to
pass on the subject of chemistry, and that at present there is no
arrangement for exchange of diplomas with the State Board of
Pharmacy of Illinois. (4) In the case of George B. Dingman, of
Buffalo, we find by the evidence submitted to your committee that
he is entitled to registration. (6) In the matter of A. W. Caton,
Owassa, Mich., we recommend the registrar be instructed to write
him that on payment of arrears due to this Council he may be
registered. (6) We recommend that the registrar be instructed to
notify Mr. Geo. M. Everist that his claim, made on behalf of R. E.
Sinclair, cannot be recognised, as Dr. G. M. Eastern is not a
registered pharmaceutical chemist. (7) The claim of Malcolm C. Rose
of six months’ service with Mr. Hazelton cannot be entertained, as
Mr. Rose’s apprenticeship contract was not registered. (8) In the
matter of W. A. Hargreaves, of Toronto, your committee would
recommend that the precedents established in similar cases are
according to the Act, and that we cannot comply with Mr.
Hargreaves’ request. (9) In the matter of J. H. Emery we are of
opinion that his apprenticeship, served in New York State, under E.
G. Watts, who is a regularly qualified pharmaceutical chemist of
Ontario, though resident in New York State, will count in the same
way as if served in Ontario. (10) We have examined the claims of
Mr. J. C. Nicholls, largely based on the same grounds as others
referred to in the report of the Education Committee of last
February, and that like them Mr. Nicholls’ claim cannot be
entertained. (11) We recommend the application of J. J. Watson, of
Toronto, be granted, and that he be credited with the time from
January 7 to August 13, 1888, served with Mr. J. C. Hazelton.

In concurrence with notice of motion served upon the Registrar and members of the Council in accordance with by-law No. 20, we recommend that the word “public” in by-law 3 in the sentence “act as public prosecutor when so inserted by the chairman of the Infringement Committee,” be struck out, as recommended by the Deputy Attorney General in his letter of May 27. (2) That the phraseology of by-law 6 be changed so as to read “Two auditors shall be elected by ballot by the Council, said auditors shall not be members of the Council.” (3) That in by-law 13 we strike out the words “three years,” where they occur first in the by-law, and insert in place thereof first the words “four years” and after the words “pharmaceutical chemist” insert “and has attended two courses of lectures first in any college of pharmacy or school of medicine approved by the Council, the period occupied in attending these first courses may be counted as part of the term of apprenticeship, and the second or senior course at the Ontario College of Pharmacy such course to comprise the following subjects, namely: Pharmacy, chemistry, materia medica, botany and reading and dispensing of prescriptions, and has attained the age of twenty-one years. This shall not apply to those who are registered as apprentices prior to March 23rd, 1889. Such shall only be required to produce a written contract as having served as an apprentice for a term of three years.” (4) By-law 14 after the words “charge for” add “engrossed.” (5) By-law 10. Regarding the advice in the Deputy Attorney-General’s letter of May 27 we recommend that when by-law 10 is dealt with according to the notice of motion given at this meeting, the advice therein contained will be acted upon. (6) By-law 12. We advise that by-law 12 be cancelled, and that there be substituted therefor the following: “All apprentices shall, before the term of their contract commences, send to the Registrar of the college the sum of $1, together with a specified form of certificate, signed by the Provincial Inspector of Schools or by the head master of a high school or collegiate institute or other evidence satisfactory to the Council showing that the applicant has passed an examination in the following subjects, namely:

Arithmetic and Mensuration.--Reduction, Simple and Compound
Proportion, Vulgar and Decimal Fractions, Square Root, Areas of
Rectilineal Figures, Volumes of Right Parallelopipeds.

Algebra.--Elementary Rules, Greatest Common Measure, Least Common
Multiple, Fractions, Simple Equations of one Unknown Quantity.

Political, Physical, and Mathematical Geography.

English Grammar and Composition.

And at the same time shall also send to the Registrar a specified form of certificate showing that the applicant has entered into a binding contract with a registered pharmaceutical chemist to serve an apprenticeship for a term of four years. This shall not apply to apprentices who are registered prior to March 23rd, 1889. And the foregoing requirements as to registration shall not apply to those who commence their apprenticeship prior to March 25th, 1884, all of which is respectfully submitted.

The report and amendments were adopted.

Mr. McKenzie read the report of the Infringements Committee, and moved that it be received. Carried.

Mr. McKenzie, seconded by Mr. Hobart, moved its adoption.

Mr. Sanders made some objections, stating the work should be done directly through the chairman.

Mr. McKenzie remarked that it was time the Council took decided action in the matter as the country was well-nigh flooded with illegal business.

The motion was carried.

Following is the report: “Your committee believe that it is time that action should be taken by this Board to have the Pharmacy Act more strictly enforced, and we are of opinion that the detective system is by far the best possible way to reach the offenders. A division of the Province into districts will materially assist your committee in reaching many of the offenders, and in view of that we would advise that the registrar in future refer all complaints of infringements to the nearest representative of the district on this Council; and if he is satisfied that such complaint is well founded, he shall at once communicate such fact to the registrar, who shall at once notify the chairman of this committee, who shall have power to pay over to said detective a part of the fine accruing to the College; and that the sum of $200 be placed to the credit of the chairman of the committee, subject to his order, of which an account shall be rendered at each semiannual meeting of this Council. We recommend the rescinding of all former Acts of this Council conflicting with this report.”

* * * * *

The election of scrutineers was the next business. It was moved by Mr. Petrie, seconded by Mr. Mackenzie, That Messrs. McGann and Murchison be appointed. It was agreed that the President cast his ballot on this election, and the above named gentlemen were accordingly elected.

Mr. Jeffrey was appointed to fix the seal of the College in the absence of the Chairman and Vice-President to all documents requiring the same.

On the motion of Mr. G. S. Hobart, seconded by Mr. McGregor, this resolution was passed,--

“That the registrar be instructed to have printed 2,000 copies of the Pharmacy Act as amended to date, in form and size similar to those in the Poison Books, and that a copy be sent to each druggist in the Province.”

Moved by Mr. D’Avignon, seconded by Mr. Sanders,--

“That Messrs. Jeffrey and Mackenzie be appointed to act in conjunction with the President and Vice-President under By-law 5.”

This clause relates to the transfer of stock or debentures.

The Council adjourned at 5.15 p. m.

Friday Morning.

The Council met at 11.20, Mr. Clark again in the chair.

Mr. J. W. Slaven read the report of the Joint Special Committee composed of the Executive, Finance and Educational Committees, which was adopted. From this report it appeared that the Council have at last succeeded in settling the very difficult question of the Professors’ salaries. Under an arrangement entered into in 1886, the Professors have been paid according to the attendance at the College. Under the arrangement effected, each Professor will be paid a definite salary in proportion to the work he does, which it is expected to be a considerable saving to the College, thereby placing the Council in a position to deal with the debt upon the building. The report was adopted.

Moved by J. McKee, and seconded by J. H. Mackenzie,--

“That Mr. F. T. Harrison be appointed by this Council as the demonstrator of practical work as per report of your Committee.”

Carried.

Messrs. Watt and John C. Laidlaw were elected auditors of the Council.

It was agreed to give Dr. Slaven a new diploma, his old one having been lost by fire.

The Council adjourned at 11.40 till 2.30.

Friday Afternoon.

The Council met at 3.5, Mr. Clark in the chair. Mr. Jeffrey read the report of the Education Committee, and having been seconded by Mr. Watters, moved its adoption.

Following is a summary of the report,--

“The Principal of the School reports 68 junior and 63 senior
students at last term. The fees received amounted to $5,776. The
general conduct of the students was in all respects satisfactory.
The results of last examination show proficiency fully up to the
standard.

“In submitting rules for the guidance of examiners the Committee,
among other alterations, suggested that the dispensing clause be
altered to the following: The dispensing of five prescriptions with
neatness, accuracy and despatch, labelling and furnishing medicine
as if designed for patients, the order in which candidates
dispensing desk is left and the cleanliness of utensils to be
rated.”

The report was adopted.

The report of the Committee re the Duties of the Board of Examiners was also read. It contained the following:

“We recommend the appointment of the following gentlemen as
examiners for the ensuing two years: Prescriptions, A. R. Fraser;
chemistry, B. Jackes; botany, C. R. Sneath; pharmacy, Frank Holman;
materia medica, D. S. Sager; dispensing, Wm. Murchison. We think,
in view of the increased work devolving upon the examiners, their
remuneration should be increased, and advise that each examiner
shall receive, as addition to his present remuneration, a further
sum of 50 cents for each student exceeding the number of 50, who
shall be examined by him. We deem it advisable that By-law 13 be
amended by erasing the words ‘Professors of the College shall be
ex-officio members of the Board of Examiners, and shall act as
advisers,’ and that the latter clause of By-law 13 reading
‘Questions asked by examiners shall be published, and approximate
rating of the answers may be furnished to candidates, their
parents, employers or teachers,’ be struck out.”

Mr. Sanders suggested that the report be taken up clause by clause. He explained that a great difficulty experienced by the students was the fact that the number of marks in subjects in which they failed was not made known to them as in the subjects in which they were successful. The Council had set up a standard which was a high one, and did not give an opportunity to students of knowing to what extent they were deficient. All the marks, he thought, should be published.

The report was adopted after a brief discussion.

The report of the Board of Examiners, containing the following, was also approved.

“The number of candidates who presented themselves for examination
was 103. Of these 66 entered for all the subjects, 37 for those
subjects in which they had previously failed. With an experience of
an examination conducted under your proposed rules and regulations,
and more especially under that clause requiring that the written
part of the work of the examination be examined and completed in
the College building and before the examiners separate, we still
feel this work can be better and more satisfactorily done at home,
and would ask and suggest that such be allowed, and that the
examiners be allowed a week in which to return the papers to the
registrar; that a meeting of the Board be held before the final
result is published, as we understand this is the usual method
pursued by the examiners of the Medical College; that the
regulation regarding the number and value of written questions be
changed so as to read as formerly, and as appeared in the Journal,
namely, that the written questions be not more than four-fifths,
either in number or value, more especially in the subject of
prescriptions, when the value of the oral examination bears
directly on the ability of the candidate, and could profitably and
justly be enlarged to at least 50 per cent in value.”

Mr. Andrew Jeffrey gave the following notice of motion for amendment of By-law 12 to erase the following: “The professors of the College shall be ex-officio members of the Board of Examiners, and shall act as advisers, and that the latter clause of By-law 13, reading ‘The questions asked at the examinations shall be published, and approximate rating of the answers may be furnished to candidates, their parents, employers, or teachers,’ be struck out.”

On the motion of Mr. Watters the meeting adjourned at 3.45, to meet at 2 p.m. on the first Tuesday in February, 1890.

THE LONDON DRUG CO.

LONDON, ONTARIO.

J. DOUGLAS, Manager

IMPORTERS OF

Drugs and Druggists’ Sundries, Fine Chemicals, Perfumery, and all Goods required by Chemists.

MANUFACTURERS OF

Fluid Extracts, and Fine Pharmaceutical Preparations, Citrate of Magnesia, Etc.

We beg to intimate to the trade, and particularly to those who are commencing business on their own account, that we keep IN STOCK every requirement of a first-class Chemist and Druggist.

We carry full and complete sets of

LABELLED SHELF WARE
DRAWER PULLS
SHOW BOTTLES and VASES
SCALES, WEIGHTS, Etc.

and everything necessary for the executing of an opening order on the shortest notice.

Correspondence in regard to Prices, Terms, etc. solicited.

MERCK’S PURE PEPSINE IN SCALES

We have taken a great deal of trouble to put before our friends and the Trade the excellent character of this preparation. It is offered at a reasonable price, and dispensing chemists should put before their Medical friends its well-known merits. It possesses high digestive powers, is perfectly solvent, and keeps well. We have it in 1 lb., ½ lb. and 1 oz. bottles.

The London Drug Co.,--Importers

LONDON, ONT.

PUT YOURSELF IN HIS PLACE.

It is always in order to talk about the deportment of clerks towards customers, says Geyer’s Stationer. Almost every person one meets has a theory on the subject which, on investigation, will be found more or less tinctured with selfishness. Admitting that clerks are not always as affable as they should be, it is just as true, on the other hand, that customers are often at fault in manners, and too frequently excite similar shortcomings in those who are serving them for the time being. Still, in the world of clerks, patience should never cease to be a virtue, and a good salesman or saleswoman will never show a ruffled temper even under the most trying circumstances. Next to affable manners a cool head is of vital importance, for who likes to deal with fussy, confused people, and when rapid work is necessary, as at the busy season in large retail stores, the man or woman with a rather short supply of nerves will generally come out ahead.

Alertness and promptness are conceded requisites and obligingness a positive essential. But the faculty most valuable in a salesman is that of reading character, and if it is backed by ready adaptability and a mind sufficiently well informed to cater mildly to discoverable idiosyncrasies, so much the better.

A salesman’s business is, of course, to sell goods, but it is equally his duty to make the store a pleasant place for customers; and above all, to make them carry away a feeling of perfect satisfaction with the business they have transacted. This can be done without giving overweight or over-measurement, which are nothing less than a betrayal of trust, and as reprehensible as giving short weight and measure, the odium of which must, in the nature of things, fall upon the employer.

“Put yourself in his place” is an excellent guide to practice. A clerk who considers what qualities and qualifications he would like in employees were he, himself, an employer of men, and governs his conduct accordingly, will not stray far from the right course. An employer who can, in fancy, put himself behind the counter and view himself from the clerk’s standpoint, will be vastly wiser and more successful in his management, and customers who can imagine themselves in the salesman’s place, and can comprehend the thousand and one trials they are subjected to by careless and indifferent humanity, will, if they choose, be able to save both themselves and the clerks an infinite amount of wear and tear of nerve force, and at the same time, receive vastly more satisfactory service.

* * * * *

An English syndicate has subscribed $10,000,000 to establish extensive iron and steel works at Vallejo, Cal.

DRUG NOTES.

We would call the attention of druggists to the advertisement of Major’s Cement in our advertising columns. Major’s Cement has a deservedly increasing sale in the United States and is now extensively sold throughout the Dominion. Mr. Major is now giving away to druggists a handsome thermometer 24 inches long with orders for his goods. These cannot help of themselves to be quite an attraction and aid to business, and we would advise our subscribers to write A. Major, 232 William St., New York, mentioning the CANADIAN DRUGGIST, for prices and terms.

The Stillman Remedies Company, of 58 West 55th St., New York, have opened a Canadian agency for the sale of their celebrated Garfield Tea at 28 Yonge St. Arcade, Toronto, Ont. The trade will be supplied with free sample packages and advertising matter by writing to D. Densmore & Co., 28 Yonge St. Arcade, Toronto, and mentioning the CANADIAN DRUGGIST.

“You dirty boy” appears in our advertising columns this week. The sale of Pears’ Soaps is now something enormous, and the proprietors are spending their thousands in bringing and keeping them before the public. No druggist’s stock is complete without a full assortment of these goods. J. Palmer & Son, of Montreal, are the Canadian agents for Pears’ Soaps and carry a complete stock of them, together with a large variety of druggist’s sundries, toilet goods, sponges, etc.

Smith & McGlashan’s travellers are now on the road with samples of holiday goods in all materials and designs. An inspection of their samples will satisfy you as to the excellency of their goods.

We would draw the attention of the trade to Lyman, Knox & Co.’s advertisement (on the inside of cover opposite first page) of some of their specialties. This young and enterprising firm have made a place for themselves in the front rank of the trade, and we are pleased to say that they deserve the confidence and popularity so quickly gained.

The demand for Wilson’s Fly Poison Pads has been larger this year than ever before. This well-known article kills flies in large quantities, lasts a long time, comes in a very convenient and safe form, sells at sight, and pays the druggist a large profit. The trade should push it in their own interests.

* * * * *

A. B. Petrie, Guelph, is spending the summer on his island in Muskoka.

_Short, timely articles upon subjects of interest to pharmacists
are solicited for this department. In order to be in time for
publication in the issue of a given month, they should be in the
editor’s hands on the third day of the month._

_Always send your proper name and address: we do not publish them
unless you wish: if you do not, please use a distinctive
nom-de-plume._

_Write on one side of the paper only; and devote a separate piece
of paper to each query if you ask more than one, or if you are
writing about other matters at the same time._

RUNNING THE DRUG BUSINESS INTO THE GROUND.

Editor CANADIAN DRUGGIST:

DEAR SIR.--It has come to my knowledge that a druggist doing a
large business in Ontario supplies a physician with his medicines
at so much per year, the sum fixed being the average of three
previous years to making this bargain. I am anxious to get hold of
a shoemaker, baker, grocer or drygoods merchant who will supply my
family on that basis. Of course my family is on the increase, but
that is all right for me. What can an association do in a case of
this kind.

A MEMBER OF AN ASSOCIATION.

SELLING AT COST.

Editor CANADIAN DRUGGIST:

DEAR SIR.--What is meant when a druggist says I am selling at cost.
Does he mean that he sells at invoice price or does he add rent,
taxes, insurance, printing, freight, breakage, waste, tickets to
shows, public subscriptions, required by being in business, (not
charity) salaries, including a fair salary for himself, a small
amount for sundries, also interest on capital invested, making in
all from 18 to 25 per cent. on the invoice price of all goods. That
is, an article costs in the wholesale house $1. Its cost price when
handed to customer is $1.20. Would like to hear how others figure
this up and if my cost is too high, and if I must reduce expenses.
Yours very truly,

DRUGGIST.

* * * * *

A correspondent, writing from Herrington, Kansas, sends the following prescription recently filled by him. We are assured by a local connoisseur that the mixture is considered as “powerful good for snakes,” when spiritus frumenti can be obtained:

One ounce of hors horn,
one Ounce Alker Hall one
onse sweate Owl A smale
Lump Of cam For Gum.--[Nat. Druggist.

DISCRETION.

Who can do business without advertising? In this advanced age, when competition is so great, he that runs the race without advertising eventually gets left. It is considered one of the most important branches of a business man’s education to know how to advertise judiciously, and to do it so as to attract attention, and place it where it will do the most good. It is looked upon as much a part of contingent expenses as rent, insurance, etc. A certain percentage out of the profits of each year should be decided on to be expended for the next year’s business, and the sum increased in proportion to the increase of business. To do business, a business must be advertised.--[Manufacturer.

HOW TO BUY.

“How can I buy best?” is a question that agitates more than one mind in the commercial world, and one that very seldom is solved to the perfect satisfaction of the querist. I propose to go into some of the phenomena of the art of buying in this issue and, if possible, portray some of the obstacles in the way of the non-successful purchaser. There are two prominent classes of successful buyers, which are subdivided into many, but I intend to treat of these two only at this time, first among these, and the most favoured is the one who has intimate knowledge of that which he intends to buy, and who is thoroughly informed as to the best goods to purchase; the prices; where they are from, etc. The second best buyer is he who makes a great plunge among those from whom he intends purchasing and endeavours to impress them with his importance as a buyer, and his pretended knowledge of the subject on hand. This last fellow is styled the bulldozer. As to which one of these two classes of persons buy the closest and best there can be no dispute, the person of knowledge is free and unfettered because he is on an equal or superior footing to him from whom he intends buying, inasmuch as his information gives him the necessary leverage. The second is in the power of the seller because if a misstatement of fact is made, the purchaser is at a disadvantage in not knowing whether it is fact or not, and he has to rely upon his powers of depreciation and arraignment of the goods to carry him to success.

I remember once being in a merchant’s store and his tactics and manners on that occasion created the impression, which has lasted up to the present time, that he was the best buyer, or at least one of the best, I ever met. I will tell you what he did and you can then see for yourself. I walked in and awaited my turn; as soon as he was at leisure he came to me, and telling me his name, asked me if I wished to see him personally. I answered him I wished his attention, and told him my business. He said he was exceedingly busy and would like me to call again. I specially requested his time for a short space, and he gave me five minutes. I pulled out my watch and taking it off the chain laid it upon the counter, open. I commenced to tell him about my goods, and as fast as I could, dealt out the points respecting them. As the minute hand crossed the point, and my time expired, I was in the middle of a sentence, but I stopped abruptly and informed him “time was up.” He said he was sorry he could not grant me a longer interview as he had an engagement “but” said he, “I am interested in the information you have imparted, and I want you to come and see me when I have time to listen.” I promised I would, and did so. I went into all the details. I gave him all the knowledge I had amassed by months of study of that one object, and when I left him it was with a feeling of satisfaction that I had been partly repaid for my labour in informing myself of the subject, and that man at least knew enough to buy of that commodity intelligently.

The great difficulty in the way of most merchants becoming good buyers is because they are not satisfied to expend from three to five minutes with a salesman when he comes into their stores in finding out his prices, goods, etc., so that when the next one comes along if his prices are below he can take advantage of it, but at any rate, I would suggest the following to all merchants: Treat the salesman coming to your store with courtesy, politeness, and consideration, and you may be sure you will receive in return information that will repay you for the expenditure. I am sorry to say a great many business men forget that a compliment to their credit is paid to them when a man enters their stores to solicit their trade. Then remember the “goods well bought are half sold.”--[Review.

To the Trade.

JUST RECEIVED

A FRESH SUPPLY

Carlsbad Sprudel Salts

Small, per dozen, $7.00. Large, per dozen, $14.00.

Carlsbad Sprudel Waters

Per case of 50 bottles, $15.00. Per dozen, $4.00.

Æsculap Water

Per case of 25 bottles, $12.00 Per dozen, $6.50.

Davis & Lawrence Co., Ltd., Montreal

SOLE AGENTS FOR CANADA.

FILL ORDERS PROMPTLY.

I was chatting a few days ago with a downtown stationer on the subject of filling orders. Strange as it may appear, this merchant held the opinion that the most pernicious, if not the most damaging, habit in daily business was the lack of promptness in supplying what was ordered. “To secure an order,” said he, “some men will promise anything and everything. You may ask as a favor to have your order filled on the day agreed upon, and he will promise faithfully that it shall be done. You then make your arrangements and find that you cannot execute them. The worst of it is that some of the men who make these promises are of business repute. They mean well, no doubt, but I contend that they should show more regard for their word and respect for other people’s business.”

These are somewhat severe words, yet they are probably warranted, although the breach of faith complained of is not common. Business men, as a rule, while anxious to obtain an order, are equally as anxious to fill it, for the very obvious reason that the motive governing them in the one case is the same which governs them in the other. The truth is that in these competitive times everyone is desirous of doing all he can, and hence he accepts orders with the belief that, barring accidents or other unforeseen circumstances, he will be able to redeem his promise. Of course the wilful promise breaker and his business, too, regulate themselves, for if a man’s word is not to be generally trusted, depend upon it his goods will not find a very extensive patronage for any length of time.--[Stationer.

A PRACTICAL SYSTEM.

Some business men do a vast amount of work without any apparent effort; they are rarely, if ever, rushed, and are seldom compelled to seclude themselves from their friends on account of the pressing demands of their business. Other people, who really accomplish very little, are always in a hurry; they seem to have a dozen things to do at once, and the result is, they are in a state of almost perpetual confusion, and the little they accomplish is only done by the greatest difficulty. In a very small country store perhaps a merchant can get along without any system or method in conducting his business. He knows where everything is in his stock, and can lay his hands on it at a moment’s notice, and if a customer calls for it he can serve him without any very great amount of trouble; but, on the other hand, if he is at the head of a vast business, some great establishment, perhaps, in which there are a hundred departments, it would be utterly impossible for him to keep track of things without the most methodical arrangement throughout the concern with which he is connected. Our great merchant leaves the details of his business to subordinates, who are accountable to him that everything goes right in the departments over which they are placed. Some of the great establishments in our city employ thousands of men, yet so perfect is the system that every man can be located at a moment’s notice, and the closest watch can be kept upon the work which he is doing. There is a system for receiving and shipping goods, a system for keeping track of stock while in the hands of the producer or dealer; there is a cash system, a system of bookkeeping by which a mistake of a penny can be detected at the close of every day’s business. It is only by these wise and sensible precautions that a great business can be carried on successfully. Thousands of losses, little and great, are averted that would certainly occur did not this watchfulness prevail in every department.

A writer in the Detroit Free Press said not long ago that “there are some occupations which compel those who follow them to be orderly and methodical. There are none in which these qualities, where they have been neglected, can not be cultivated to good advantage. Deficiency in them is far from being a token of genius. It signifies something of indolence and much that is slipshod. Every man knows whether or not he is as orderly and methodical as he should be. If he is not, unless he is too old to attempt the task, he should endeavour to improve in these respects. There is no danger of his carrying it to that excess which marks persons who have a passionate love of order, but there is a likelihood that he will materially lighten his work, or find that he can do much more than he has been in the habit of doing.”

It seems to the Criterion that this is the keynote of a business man’s success. No man who conducts his business in a slipshod manner can expect to achieve desirable results. He should determine to be orderly and methodical at the very commencement of his career. Order soon becomes a habit with a business man, and by its observance he is enabled to do a hundred things that it would be impossible to accomplish if he did not go at them in the handiest and most effective manner.--[Grocers’ Criterion.

BRAINS IN BUSINESS.

One secret of success in business--the secret, in fact, of success on a large scale--is to conceive of it as a matter of principles, not merely as a series of transactions. There are great merchants as there are great statesmen, and there are small merchants as there are small politicians, and the difference is very much the same in both professions. The small politician works by the day, and sees only the one small opportunity before him, the small merchant does the same thing--he is looking for the next dollar. The statesman, on the other hand, is master of the situation, because he understands the general principles which control events; this knowledge enables him to deal with large questions and to shape the future. The great merchant does the same thing, his business is not a mere money-getting affair, not a mere matter of barter, but a science and an art; he studies the general laws of trade, watches the general condition of the country, investigates present needs, foresees future wants, and adapts his business to the broad conditions of time and place. He puts as much brains into his work as does the statesman, and he ends by being not a money getter, but a large minded and capable man. An eminently successful business man, of statesmanlike quality, said the other day that the more he understood of life the more clearly he saw that it was all done on business principles. By which he meant, not only that the universe stands for the dollar, but that the universe is governed by unvarying laws, that promptness, exactness, thoroughness and honesty are wrought into its very fibre. On these business principles all life is conducted, if not by men, at least by that power which is behind man. It ought to be the ambition of every young man to treat his business from the point of the statesman, and not from that of the politician.

DRUG MARKET REVIEW.

August 10, 1889.

Business for summer months has kept up very well, and for the past month there have been no notable changes in value.

Quinine is dull; there is a strong impression that quinine will not be any lower; an upward move seems probable.

Morphia and Opium, slightly advanced.

In Camphor there is a large demand and a further advance probable.

We were in error regarding duty being taken off tannic acid, it is only free when imported by manufacturers for manufacturing purposes.

Cubebs are dear and scarce, supplies are smaller every year.

Cascara Sagrada has gone back to old prices.

Pot Iodide and Bromide are unchanged.

Fair demand for Insect Powder: prices unchanged.

Mercurials are all higher.

Oil Anise will probably be higher as the bulk of it has passed into the hands of three holders. The basis of the speculative movement is owing to the probability of a stoppage of the shipment owing to a disagreement between the producers in China and the importers here.

Balsam Copaiba will probably be lower; the high price was caused by the crop last year not being marketed by the South American natives. The result was high prices which stimulated the natives to great activity in gathering and forwarding the balsam, and stocks have accumulated rapidly, so that at present there are 40,000 lbs. in first hands in European markets.

Golden Seal Root is unsettled and the tendency is to higher prices. Senega is in about the same position. Serpentaria continues to advance.

Coca Leaves reported advanced.

Caffeine and Salts are cheaper.

Glycerine unchanged, but there has been a sharp advance in crude.

In Gallic and Tannic Acids the reports of short crops from China are confirmed. Galls have gone up 10 to 15 per cent., and we may soon have to ask more money for Gallic and Tannic acids.

In Sulphonal the extremely keen competition between the eight or ten manufacturers has resulted in a decline in price. As things are it seems advisable to order only for immediate wants.

Oil Sassafras is likely to be dearer.

Opium, cuttlebone, quicksilver, anise oil, golden seal root, senega root, serpentaria root, shellacs, star anise, cassia, cloves, allspice have advanced.

* * * * *

D. S. Sage, Brantford, is doing the Continent. Mr. Charles Miller is looking after his business.

C. H. Moderwell, formerly of Stratford, now with Caswell, Massey & Co., New York, was visiting old friends in Stratford and vicinity.

WILSON’S FLY POISON PADS.

If there is a Druggist in Canada who is not selling them we say to him, You are losing money every day, you are losing opportunities of selling your customers goods which will give complete satisfaction, and bring them back to your store.