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I find that the old Roman baths of this quarter, were…

“I find that the old Roman baths of this quarter, were found covered by an old burying ground, belonging to the Abbey; through which, in all probability, the water drains in its passage; so that as we drink the decoction of the living bodies at the Pump-room, we swallow the strainings of rotten…” quote by Tobias Smollett
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“I find that the old Roman baths of this quarter, were found covered by an old burying ground, belonging to the Abbey; through which, in all probability, the water drains in its passage; so that as we drink the decoction of the living bodies at the Pump-room, we swallow the strainings of rotten bones and carcasses at the private bath - I vow to God, the very idea turns my stomach!”

Tobias Smollett

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author is disgusted by drinking water that may be contaminated by decaying remains.

In simple terms: He finds the idea of contaminated water repulsive.

Key Takeaway

Avoid drinking potentially polluted water.

Themes

health hygiene disgust history

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

historical educational

When to use this quote

  • historical sites
  • tourism
  • archaeology
  • public health

Key Concepts

contamination sanitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What precautions can be taken at historic sites?
  • How does knowledge of past practices affect modern hygiene?
A Different Perspective

Historical accounts may exaggerate for effect.

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