Fluxionum methodus inversa; sive quantitatum fluentium leges generaliores . .

London: J. Matthews, 1703. FIRST EDITION. Numerous text diagrams and mathematical equations. Contemporary Oxford-style sprinkled calf, a bit worn, front hinge weak but holding; interior excellent. A duplicate from the library of the University of St. Andrews with a contemporary inscription on the title page and a gift inscription, also contemporary, on the verso. First edition of Cheyne’s attempt at mathematics. It is quite likely that Cheyne had knowledge of Newton’s manuscript on the calculus despite it not having been published as yet (it was finally published posthumously in 1736). This treatise on fluxions, or integral calculus, was applicable to medical as well as to the mechanical sciences, which attracted the notice (and criticism) of the celebrated mathematician Abraham de Moivre

Cheyne (1671-1743), a Scottish physician, mathematician, and theologian, was a fellow of the Royal Society, and the principal spokesman for British “Newtonianism in its many facets.” He was a prolific writer, authoring a number of medical works.

He moved to London in the early 1700’s and ultimately practiced medicine in Bath. According to Eimas, “his medical treatises ... did not contribute appreciably to the advancement of science but were popular largely because Cheyne possessed a superior literary style.” Most of his works were prepared primarily for the lay reader, and the advice he provides is commonplace and sensible. At one point he weighed over 400 pounds, and had to interview his patients from his carriage. By a vigorous diet of milk and vegetables, he was able to reduce his weight and became an expert on diet and health, from his own “experience and observation on my own crazy carcase.”

Cheyne’s circle of friends included many prominent medical and scientific writers such as Gregory, Halley and Richard Mead.

DSB, III, pp. 244-245; Eimas, Heirs of Hippocrates, 761; Zeitlinger, I, 779.