We begin to wonder why it is that we cannot control our drinking. We believe ourselves weak willed or morally deficient. Dr. Silkworth saw alcoholism as an illness, a manifestation of an allergy. The doctor's opinion gives us a rational basis from which to begin our examination of the problem of alcoholism. Our own experience validates his view of the physical aspects of alcoholism. When we begin to drink we develop a craving for more alcohol that is beyond our ability to control. Dr. Silkworth treated Bill W. for alcoholism the second, third and fourth times he was admitted to Town’s Hospital in New York. Dr. Silkworth explained to Bill the grave nature of his affliction. This information helped Bill to admit his powerlessness over alcohol so that he was open to the solution for alcoholism suggested to him by his high school friend Ebby T.