I have not seen the articles alluded to, but am credibly informed that several papers have contained statements to the effect that Christian Scientists have issued fradulent diplomas. The Massachusetts Metaphysical College is the only chartered college sending out students qualified as above. Have been at the head of this school since its organization, and state upon authority, I have not granted a diploma; am waiting for students to prove their fitness for such legal indorsement before applying for special charter.
About four years ago, when Rev. Mr. Rice was a member of the Legislature, I was authentically informed he reported to that body that my attorney had told him I had concluded not to issue diplomas. I have never taken counsel of an attorney on this matter, and Charles J. Eastman, M. D., the gentleman Mr. Rice must have referred to, had told me at that time he made no such statement as the above, and openly contradicted it when such a report was returned to the House by Rev. Mr. Rice. When Mr. Rice called on me to converse on this subject in 1881, I had two witnesses present. In conversation about my school he asked me if I intended to give diplomas to graduating classes. I replied in substance that I should claim all the rights and privileges conferred by charter, whether I did or did not use them.
Charles J. Eastman. M. D., was never a student of mine, and, to my knowledge, never claimed to be a Christian Scientist. At the time Mr. Rice alludes to he was a homoeopathic physician and dean of the Bellevue Medical College. His name appeared in my curriculum as surgeon to be consulted outside, instrumental surgery not being taught in my college. His name has been removed from my curriculum. Such are the facts wherewith Rev. Mr. Rice would slander a religious sect.
