Haemoglobin estimation in general practice.

S YDENHAM wrote " And so Hysterical Diseases are most commonly cured ... but especially a Chlorosis, or Virgin's pale colour. I order some Chalybeate Remedy to be taken . .. for it raises a Volatile Ferment in the Vapid and Languid Blood, whereby the weak Spirits are raised . . . for as often as Steel is given in the Green-sickness, the Pulses are manifestly greater and quicker . .. and the pale and dead Countenance is changed and becomes fresh and lively". (Sydenham 1705)