Chapter 25: 245-253
Contents
Page 247
"the final Illness... was from Gravel"
Referring to Chalicosis, perhaps? From WIKI: Chalicosis (Greek, χάλιξ, gravel), sometimes called Flint disease, is a form of pneumoconiosis affecting the lungs or bronchioles. The disease is caused by the inhalation of fine particles of stone. It is found chiefly among stonecutters.
Mr. Birch
Thomas Birch (November 23, 1705 – January 9, 1766) was an English historian, and member of the Royal Society. From WIKI
Mr. Mead
A touch of an anachronism, as this seems to be Richard Mead (11 August 1673 – 16 February 1754) who an English physician. His work, A Short Discourse concerning Pestilential Contagion, and the Method to be used to prevent it (1720), was of historic importance in the understanding of transmissible diseases. He was also a member of the Royal Society. From WIKI
Mr. White
Most likely Gilbert White, who was a member of the Royal Society. Gilbert White (18 July 1720 – 26 June 1793) was a pioneering naturalist and ornithologist. From WIKI