The English are easyer than any other Nation infatuated by the prospect of universal medicines, nor is there any other Country in the World where the Doctors raise such immense Fortunes. I attribute it to the Fund of Credulity which is in all Mankind. We have no longer faith in Miracles and Reliques, and therefore with the same Fury run after receits and Physicians. The same money which 300 years ago was given for the health of the Soul is now given for the Health of the body, and by the same sort of people: Women and halfe witted Men.
Habsblond R, ed. The complete letters of Lady Mary
Montagu Oxford: Clarendon, 1966-7:397
(24 April 1748)