A Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets, Perform'd by Mr. John Howard Surgeon at Guilford

by Nathanael St. André

"A Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets, Perform'd by Mr. John Howard" is an unusual medical account written during the early 18th century. This book details the bizarre events surrounding the delivery of multiple rabbits from a woman named Mary Toft, who was treated by Mr. Howard, a surgeon in Guilford, England. The narrative addresses issues of medical anomalies and the societal curiosity surrounding the strange phenomenon of a woman purportedly giving birth to rabbits. In this account, the author, Mr. St. André, recounts his investigation into the claims made by Mary Toft, who allegedly experienced a series of labor-like pains resulting in the expulsion of several rabbits. Mr. Howard documents the details of the deliveries, noting the physical examinations and the medical peculiarities associated with the creatures. As the narrative progresses, it raises questions about the nature of the event—whether it was a genuine medical mystery or a case of deception. The book outlines the observations and testimonies from various medical professionals and witnesses while maintaining a tone of skepticism towards the claims. Ultimately, this narrative not only serves as a historical curiosity but also reflects the complexities of credulity and medical practice in the early 18th century.