\ r V. THE MEDICAL COMPANION TREA.TIXG, Accordiiic;' to the most successful practice, I. THE DISEASES COMMON TO WARM CLIMATES AND ON SHIP BOARD. ir. COMMON CASES IN SURGE- RY, AS FRACTURES, DISLO- CATIONS, kc. III. THE COMPLAINTS PECULIAR TO WOMEN AND CHILDREN. A DISPENSATORY AND GLOSSARY. TO \THICH ARE ADDED, A BRIEF ANATOMY OF THE HUMAN BODY; AN ESSAY ON HYGIEINE, OR THE ART OF PRESERVING HEALTH AND PROLONGING LIFE; AN AMERICAN MATERIA MEDICA, INSTRUCTING COUNTRY GENTLEMEN IN THE VERY IMPORTANT KNOWLEDGE OF THE VIRTUES AND DOSES OF OUR MEDICINAL PLANTS; ALSO, A CONCISE AND 1MPARTIA.L HISTORY OF THE CAPTURE OF WASHINGTON, AND THE DISEASES WHICH SPRUNG FROM THAT MOST DEPLORABLE DISASTER. THE THIRD EDITIOjX^GREATLY IMPROVED. BY JAMES EWELL, PHYSICIAN IN WASHINGTON, F ORMERLV OF SAVANNAH. " I have always thouc^ht it a greater happiness to discover a certain Tiiethod of curing-, even the slightest disease, than to accumulate the largest for- tune; and whoever compasses the former, I esteem not only hajjpler, but widci* and better too." Sydenham. PHILADELPHIA: PKINTED FOR THE AUTHOR, 1817. Dlsti-lct of Pennsylvania, to wit: BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the seventh day of May, * SEAL. * in tlie fortieth year of the independence of the United States « « of America, A. D. 1816, James Ewell, M. D. of the said dis- ******** trict, hath deposited in tliis office the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as author, in the words following, to wit: ** The Medical Companion: treating, according to the most successful prac- tice, I. The diseases common to warm climates and on ship board: II. Common cases in surgery, as fractures, dislocations, &c. III. The com- plaints peculiar to women and children. With a Dispensatory and Glos- sary. To w hich are added, a bi ief anatomy of the human body; an essay on Hygieine, or the art of preserving health and prolonging life; an Ame- rican Materia Medica, instructing country gentlemen in the very import- ant knowledge of the virtues and doses of our medicinal plants; also, a concise and impartial history of the capture of Washington, and the dis- eases which sprung from that most deplorable disaster. The third edition —greatly improved. By James Ewell, physician in Washington, formerly of Savannah. " I have always thought it a greater happiness to discover a certain method of curing, even the slightest disease, than to accumulate the largest fortune; and whoever compasses the former, I esteem not only happier, but wiser and better too. Sydenham." In conformity to the act of the Congress of the United States, entituled, ** An act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned," and also to the act, entitled, '* An act for the en- couragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein men- tioned," and extended the benefits thereof to the aits of designing, engra- ving, and etching historical and other prints." D. CALDWELL, Clerk of the District of Pennsylvania. RECOMMENDATIONS. IN testimony of the merits of this work, the following commendations, by some of the most distinguish- ed medical characters, of the United States, are in- serted. Philadeltihiay December 31, 1807. Dear Sir, I have read your book entitled " The Medical Comfianion,*^ with pleasure, and think it worthy the attention of the citizens of the United States. W. SHIPPEN, M. D. Professor of Anatomy, Dr. James Ewe II. Philadel/ihia^ December 31, 18(57. Dear Sir, I have carefully perused your work, " The Medical Comfianion^** and take much pleasure in expressing; my entire approbation of the plan, and of the utility with which you have conducted your inquiries. Your book cannot fail to be a very acceptable present to the public in general, and especially to our own countrymen. I really am of opinion, that you are entitled to much praise for the pains which you have taken in furnishing us with a work, the want of which has long been experienced among us. Your friend, &c. B.S. BARTON, M. D. Professor of Materia Medica^ Mitural History and Botany, Dr. James Ewell. December 28, 1807. I have read " The Medical Companion^^ by Dr. James Ewell, vith satisfaction. It is a book containing a variety of matter in a small compass. The practice which he recommends in diseases, iv Recommejidations* is modern and judicious, and the work cannot fail of being useful in all families in the United States. JAMES WOODHOUSE, M. D. Professor of Che7nistry in the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Jaijies Eiuell, Dear Sir, I have looked over your " Medical Companion'* with pleasure. The arrangement of the various parts is judicious, the languacje plain and perspicuous, and the sentiments happily condensed; the modes ot treatment grow out of the most improved state of our science, and may serve as a safe and useful guide to every family, cutoff from the services of able physicians. Accept the homage of my regard. JOHN B. DAVIDGE, M. D. Professor of Anatorny^ Surgery^ life, in the College of Medicine of Maryland, Baltimore, Feb. 19, 1808. Dr. James Ewell. Dear Sir, We have perused your Medical Comfiariion'* with much sa- tisfaction, and strongly recommend it to the attention of those fa- milies who cannot with convenience procure medical aid. VVe think it the best publication we have ever read on the domestic treatment of diseases, more especially as it regards those of our climate. We are very respectfully, sir, your most obedient servants, BROWN & MACKENZIE. Baltimore, March 4, 1808. Dr» James Ewell. Sir, I have read your book on Domestic Medicine with pleasure. The practice recommended in it is judicious, and being from the pen of a native physician, has great advantage over the publications of Buchan and Tissot. JOHN SHAW, M. D. Professor of Chemistry in the College of Medicine of Maryland, Dr. James Ewell. Dear Sir, Charleston^ May 7, 1808. Your " Medical Companion" contains much useful knowledge in a small compass, and is particularly adapted to these states. Families remote from medical aid, wiU find their account in pos- Recommendations, V scssing a book which describes diseases so plainly, and prescribes for them so judiciously, as bid fair to save valuable lives, which otherwise might be lost. Your most obedient servant, DAVID RAMSAY, M. D. Dr. James Ewell, Charleston, S. C. May 12, 1808. Dear Sir, The perusal of your " Medical Cow/iamon'* has given me the greatest satisfaction. Such a publication has been much wanted, and I think the plan and execution of your work must answer the most valuable purposes. Yours very truly, ALEX. BARRON, M. D. Dr. James Ewell, Charleston, May 14, 1808. Dear Sir, 1 have with great pleasure perused your " Family Physician." I find it to be a well digested compend of the most modern and ap- proved modes of treating diseases, especially those to which our country is most exposed. You have subjoined a dispensatory, ju- diciously calculated to obviate those errors which too frequently ensue from the exhibition of medicine, where the aid of the prac- titioner cannot be obtained. Yours, &c. PHILIP G. PRIOLEAU. Dr. James Envell. Washington, March 1, 1808. Sir, I return you my thanks for the copy of " The Medical Com- panion" you have been so kind as to send me, and must particu- larly express my sense of the favourable sentiments expressed to- wards me in the beginning of the work; especially loo, where it recals to my recollection the memory of your respectable father, who was the friend and companion of my youth, and for whom I retained through life an affectionate attachment. The plan of your work is certainly excellent, and its execution, as far as am a judge, worthy of the plan. It brings within a moderate compass whatever is useful, levels it to ordinary comprehension, and as a manual, will be a valuable possession to every family. I pray you accept my saluations and assurances of esteem and respect. TH: JEFFERSON. Dr. EivelL vi Re CO mm enda tions. Philadelphia, Aug. 13th, 1816. Dear Sir, I have looked over with some care, the copy of the Third Edi- tion the " Medical Companion" which you did me the favour to present to me. By the additions and revisions given to this new impression of the work, it is not only enlarged, but exceedingly improved. After stating so much, I need hardly repeat an opinion, which I publicly expressed on a former occasion, that I consider it, as in- disputably, the most useful popular treatise on medicine with which I am acquainted. Compared with the European Books of the same nature, it has, especially in relation to the treatment of the diseases of our own country, a very decided superiority. I trust that the success of this literary enterprize may be equal to your very generous and benevolent disposition. With great respect, I am dear sir, yours, 8cc. N. CHAPMAN, M. D. Professor of the Listitutes and Practice of Medicine and Ciinical Practice^ in the University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, Aug. 13th, 1816. Dear Sir, I have derived much satisfaction from a perusal of the third Edition of your " Medical Companion." The additions and improvements which it contains, as compared with the two first editions of the work, are extensive and impor- tant. To families in the country, remote, not only from medical aid, but from places where common medicinal articles are to be pro- cured, your Materia Medica alone, disclosing to them the healing resources of their own farms and forests, will be of high value. Nor, provided they be true to their best interests, and avail them- selves of the advantages placed at their disposal, will your rules and directions for the preservation of health, be less useful to them. In addition to these two important branches, now introduced into the Medical Companion for the first time, it contains a large amount of new miscellaneous matter, which cannot fail to be in- teresting to the reader. On the whole, if I be not greatly mistaken in my estimation of the character of your work, it is well calculated to prove exten- sively useful, and to place you in the midst of the permanent be- nefactors of your country. That you may receive, in reputation and wealth, your full re- ward, is the sincere wish of Dear sir, your very humble And obedient servant, CH. CALDWELL, M. D. X)r. James Eivell. Reco7nmendatio77s, vii The folloiving Review is from that celebrated luork the Xeiv York Medical Repository. Manuals of health, or popular publicaiions on medicine, have become so frequent as to have excited the censure of some grave and oracular members of the profession. They consider their publisiiing brethren as unnecessarily divulging the arcana of the art, as depreciating its credit and estimation, and as teaching the common mass of readers to know as much as themselves. This communicative disposition they conceive to be carried to a very faulty extreme. For when the secrets of the healing faculty are promulgated by its members, with such consummate knowledge and success, what is left for distinguishing the regularly initiated from those who are without the pale? The propagation of the Es- culapian mysteries is viewed to be faulty on another account; inasmuch as in diminishing the importance, it lessens the profits of the practisers, and thus, for the gratification and emolument of one tell-tale author, the whole fraternity is disparaged. Let us, however, do justice to those sons of physic who are thus accused of faithlessness, in uttering abroad those matters which ought to be viewed as under the restriction of closed doors. Con- trast their conduct with that of another class of medical personages, who for ever deal in nostrums, and are incessantly boasting of their wonder-working powers; who assure the credulous world they can cure every possible disease of mind and body; but with a cunning equal to their effrontery, permit no mortal to become acquainted with their remedies. Compare the conduct of him who v/ithholds nothing from his fellow citizens, with that of him who keeps every thing to himself. There can scarcely be a stronger exhibition of generous communication on the one part, and of selfish conceal- ment on the other. Whatever may be pleaded in behalf of the per- sons who refuse to make a magnanimous publication for the good of mankind, of such valuable means of cure as they may possess, or who secure the profits of them under the statute of patents, there certainly is a character of greater disinterestedness and phi- lanthropy, and a temper of a brighter mould and finish in him, who, without fee or price, offers to his fellow creatures all he knows that will be beneficial to them. We know it has been said, that a smattering in the knowledge of the animal economy, and of diseases, multii)lies the number of patients, and encourages the practice of physic. Books on such subjects, addressed to the people at large, are peculiarly calculat- ed to alarm their fears whenever they are unwell, and, therefore, impel them to seek assistance from those on whose skill they rely. It has been surmised too, that the disciples of Buchan, Willich. and their coadjutors, have often been led, from superficial and conceited knowledge, to become prescribers to others, and liave, by their blunders, rendered the attendance of the regular physi- cian more needful than ever. Hence it has been argued, that pub- lications of this kind fail to promote the plausible object of theii' composition, and in reality, produce a mischievous, and not a benc- . 1 n o o - I xirs sagacity aud skill. > TO HIS EXCELLENCY THOMAS JEFFERSON, PRESIDENT OF THE UmTEB ST.1TES. I BEG leave to present this book to Mr. Jefferson^ not because he is President of 1807, but because he was the patriot of 1776; and still more, because, through the whole of a long and glorious life, he has been the philosopher and friend of his country: with all the ingenui- ty of the former, exposing the misrepresenta- tions of illiberal foreigners; and with all the ar- dour of the latter, fanning the fire of American science, and watering the roots of that sacred olive which sheds her peaceful blessings over our land. To whom then, with equal propriety, could 1 dedicate a boot, designed at least to promote health and longevity? And to wliom am I so B X Dedication. bound by the tenderest ties of affection and gra- titude, as to Mr. Jefferson? The early classmate and constant friend of my deceased father, and instruraentally the author of my acquaintance with the first characters in the state of Georgia; among whom, with peculiar pleasure, I would mention the honourable names of Milledge, Troup, Bullock, and Flournoy. That you may long direct the councils of a united and wise people, steadily pursuing health, peace and competence, the main pillars of indi- vidual and national happiness, is the fervent prayer, of your Excellency's Much obliged, and Very grateful servant, JAMES EWELL. 4 PREFACE. ON the important subject of domestic medicine, ma- ny books have been written, which, though excellent in other respects, have greatly failed of usefulness to Americans; because they treat of diseases which, ex- isting in \ try foreign climates and constitutions, must widely differ from ours. The book now oiFered to the public has, therefore, the great advantage of having been written by a native American, of long and succes- ful practice in these southern states, and who, for years past, has turned much of his attention to the composi- tion of it. The professed object of his book is to treat in the most clear and concise manner, almost every disease to which the human body is subject — to give their com- mon names and surest symptoms — to point out the causes whence they originate, and the most approved method of treatment — and, lastly, to prescribe the suit- able regimen and means of prevention. A publication like this, cannot but be exceedingly use- ful to all, and especially to those who live in the coun- try, or who go to sea, where regular and timely assis- tance cannot always be obtained. Among the many and great services, which may be rendered by such a book, we may fairly state its ten- dency to prevent that dangerous officiousness of igno- xii Preface. rant persons, as also, that equally pernicious neglect of the patient, at the onset of the disease, whereby so ma- ny lives are lost. These, with many other evils result- ing from the want of such a work, constituted the mo- tives which first led the author to ofter this publication to his countrymen. It is not for him to determine, whe- ther it be happily executed or not; but whatever may be the general opinion as to its merit, he has the high satisfaction to know, that it not only flows from the purest motives, but also contains a faithful relation of facts, founded principally on his own experience; and what is not his own, has been selected from authors of the greatest celebrity. As to language, he has not, he confesses, been over- studious of ornament. Having made it his prime ob- ject to convey instruction, he has employed the style which to him appeared the most familiar and intelligi- ble; so that in all cases of disease, the patient might be directed in the plainest manner possible to the appro- priate remedies. The reader will find in the latter part of the work, a table of such medicines as are almost constantly called for in families, with an adaption of the doses, accord- ing to the age of the patient, together with directions how to prepare and administer them. To have those articles always in readiness, would not only save a great deal of time and expense of send- ing on every trivial occasion to a distant physician, but must also afford to a tender parent or master, an infi- nite satisfaction, because of the very great advantage it gives him over a disease which he can meet with a suit- able remedy at the first moment of its attack. For there can be no doubt, that thousands have perished, not be^ cause thefc were no remedies, but because these remc- Preface, xiii dies were at such a distance, that the patient was lost, before they could be brought to him. It is a well known fact, that the hero of Stony Point, the brave general Wayne, after his defeat of the In- dians on the Miami, was suddenly taken off by a gouty spasm in the stomach, which might easily have been cured, could a single pint of French brandy have been procured. What numbers have died miserably of lock- jaw, and cholera morbus, for lack of a vial of laudanum, with proper directions to use it? How many fond mo- thers have hung distracted over their children, Strang- ling under the croups or swollen with the poison of ser- pentSy when the former might so easily have been cured by an emetic, and the latter by caustic volatile alkali. But it were an endless task to enumerate all the heart- breaking tragedies that have taken place in families, merely for the want of the appropriate remedies, of sud- den and alarming diseases. It were therefore a godlike act in all persons, in tolerable circumstances, to keep a medicine chest, not only for the benefit of their own families, but also of their sick and indigent neighbours, who often suffer, and sometimes perish, for want of proper medicines seasonably administered. As it is impossible entirely to banish technical phrases when writing on medicine, the reader is presented with a Glossary^ explaining the medical and scientific terms which have unavoidably been employed in this work. To conclude; the author, animated by the extraordi- nary success of X\\t ^' Medical Companion^'' has greatly improved and enlarged this third edition, by adding a synopsis of the anatomy and physiology of the human body; essays on air, food, exercise, sleep, evacuations, and passions; and a Materia Medica of the United States.— Aho, having been himself a melancholy spec- xiv Preface, tator of the capture of Washington by the Bri- tish, he has annexed a concise and impartial history of that awful tragedy, with sundry important hints relative to those bilious and camp fevers, and dysenteries, which followed that great national calamity. With these improvements, he flatters himself the " Medical Companion" will not fail to be far more ac- ceptable to his fellow-citizens; and under this pleasing impression, he submits it to their generous patronage. TABLE OF CONTENTS. page ADMONITORY hints to ladies 445 Apoplectic fits ... 352 Asthma .... 368 Bites of Musquitoes - - 406 venomous animals - 407 Bleeding- at the nose - - 342 Blood-letting - - - 440 Capture of Washington - 661 Chicken^ or swine pox - - 340 Chilblains - - - - 410 Cholera morbus ... 375 Cold - - - - 301 Collection and preservation of vegetable substances - 627 Colic 372 Common ulcers ... 419 Consumption ... 544 Convulsive fits - - - 485 Costiveness and wind - - 480 Cramp . - . - 864 Croup, or hives ... 488 Deafness .... 328 Diarrhoea, or looseness - - 376 Discharge from the vagina 483 Diseases of children requiring external treatment - - 473 Diseases of children requiring medical treatment - - 477 Dislocations • . - 430 Dislocation of the jaw - - 432 of the shoulder - ibid of the elbow - - 433 — ^ of the thigh - - 454 Dispensatory ... 639 Dropsy .... 373 Dysentery .... 350 Earach .... 337 Epidemic . - - -318 Epileptic fits - - . 354 Eruptions of the skin - . 394 Fainting fits ... 355 Falling of the palate - - 311 Fevers in general . - 271 Intermittent, or ague and fever 274 Nervous fever - - 290 Remittent, or bilious fever 280 Fracture of the ribs - - 439 Gleet Glossary Gonorrhoea Gout Guinea worm Heudach Hernia, or rupture Heartburn Hiccup, Hooping Cough Hydrophobia Hygieixe, or the art of pr serving health Of Air Food Exercise Sleep - Evacuations Of the Passions Love Hope - Jov Grief - Fear Anger Hatred - Envy Avarice - Intemperance Vanity Modesty Dress Cleanliness Patriotism Religion Hypochondriac disease Hysteric fits Incontinence of urine - . 347 Indigestion, or weakness of the stomach - 370 Infantile jaundice - - 473 inflammation of the bladder - 326 of the intestines - 324 xvi Contents, Inflammation of the kidiiies - 325 of tlie liver - - 320 of the stomach - - 322 Injuries of the head, and frac- tures of the limbs - - 436 Intoxication - - - 402 Issues 443 Itch 396 Jaundice .... 399 Looseness, or cholera infantum 481 Management of chlld-bed - 464 of infants - - 4G8 Materia Meuica - - 493 Measles - 339 Menstruation ... 44" Mortification - - - 428 Mumps 311 Night mare - 368 Obstruction of urine - - 387 Palpitation of the heart - 366 Palsy 358 Peripneumony, or inflammation of the lungs - - - 317 Phrensv, or inflammation of the brain - - - - 299 Piles 349 Pleurisy . - - - 314 Poisons .... 405 Pox 388 Pregnancy .... 450 Preliminary observations - 17 Progress of labour - - 456 Prolapsus ani, or falling of the fundament - - - 414 Putrid sore throat - - - 307 Qjiinsy, or inflammatory sore throat - - . . 304 Recovering persons apparently drowned .... 404 Recovering persons apparently killed by lightning or noxious vapours .... 405 Red gum ... - 479 Rheumatism - - - 330 Rickets .... 492 Saint Anthony's fire - - 341 Scalds and burns - - 411 Scirrhus, or cancer - - 417 Scrofula, or king's evil . 398 Scurvy - - - - 393 Sea sickness - . . 402 Seminal weakness - - - 387 Small-pox .... 337 Snuffles 478 Sore eyes - - . - 3 12 Spitting of blood - - - 343 Sprains and bruises - - 430 Structure of the human machine 29 Suppression and difficulty of urine . • - . 348 Swallowing of pins - - 409 Table of medicines for family use 632 Teething .... 486 Tetany, or locked jaw - 365 Tetter, or ring-worm - 397 Thrush .... 480 Tinea, or scald-head - - 397 Tooth ach - - ' - - 329 Tumours, or boils - - 416 Vaccine disease, or cow-pox - 333 Venereal disease - - 384 Warts and corns - - - 415 Watery head ... 486 White swelling ... 400 Whitlow .... 415 Worms .... 484 Wounds ... - 422 PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS. Contemplating the numberless diseases to ^vhich man is liable, and which may cause him to drag out a protracted life of distress, or suddenly to cut him off in the bloom of his existence and amidst his useful- ness, we must adore that divine Excellence which has given us m medicine the means of counteracting those dreadful evils. As might have been expected, the attention paid to an art, which rises in importance over all others, has ever kept pace with the general progress of intellectual improvement, and it has received the respect and en- couragement of every enlightened people. With the Greeks, especially, the wisest and most po- lished of all the ancient nations, medicine was held in the highest estimation. Its votaries were cherished and rever- ed by them w^hile living, and in some instances they car- ried their enthusiasm so far as to deify them after death. It is not indeed easy to conceive a more noble character, than a great and amiable practitioner of medicine, one who has expanded his mind to the utmost extent by the brilliant attainments of science, and mellowed the dis- positions of his heart by the habitual exercise of bene- volence towards the afflicted objects of his care. How exemplary are Physicians of this description? Such was Hippocrates, the father of medicine. Such was the pious, the enlightened Sydenham. Such was the benevolent Jones of Savannah. Such is that *' brilliant star," the en- C 18 FreUmina7'ij Obseiuations, lightened Rush; and such are 'many others who have emulated their virtues and rivalled their fame; among whom, I have the high satisfaction to enumerate of my particular friends, Craik of Alexandria, Weems of Georgetown, Stevenson of Baltimore, and Chapman of Philadelphia. Bui unhappily, all those who profess our art do not resemble those bright examples. Medicine more than any other good thing, is subject to abuse and debase- ment, by the sordid and mischievous ** tricks and de- vices" of empiricism. Like noxious weeds these impos^ tors rise up at first, from the rank soil of their own ef- frontery; but they owe much of their subsequent growth to the protection which they derive from the want of that information widely diffused, which would at once detect, and " laugh into scorn" their idle claims, and arraign to conviction their dangerous tendencies. They live but by tolerance. The sliglitest examination of their pretensions, would drive the herd into their holes and hiding places, and consign their wideJij spread fame to utter oblivion. It is strange, *' it is passing strange," that so little popular curiosity prevails with regard to medicine, par- ticularly when the public mind is so actively alive to subjects certainly of less moment. Talk to the generality of mankind about property ^x\^ you would suppose they were all lawyers^ they reason so sensibly on the various points of meum et tuum. But touch them about that which is of more worth than all property, 1 mean health, and they are as silent as niutts. Did not experience evince the fact, we should lliink it impossible that in things of such high concern, men could be so prepos- terously deceived! so careful of the dross, and yet so negligent of the gold. What can be more deeply interesting than the inves- tigation of that beautiful organization which has, em- phatically, been pronounced God's master work?" What more important than acquiring the knowledge of preserving this admirable mechanism? And what more pleasant and useful than to investigate the medical plants- Preliminary Obscrvat'iom, 19 of our extensive country, wherel)y we may remedy those painful maladies which assail the human frame? Half the attention and the time which is devoted to the minor politics arising out of our party dissentions, assisted by very little of that overboiling zeal that is given to the acquisition of property, would, if appropria- ted to medical studies, enable any person of tolerable ca- pacity to practice with safety and advantage in those cases of simple disease, ^vhich are most incident to our climate, and to detemine between the ^'arrant Quack" and the modest, well-educated, and judicious physician. Assuredly, some care might be profitably directed to medicine. Why will not the intelligent citizens who are scattered throughout the country, dedicate a part of their *' liberal leisure" to it? Of all the sciences it is the most inviting, and that which opens the largest treasures to its cultivators. No one can lend his mind to it with- out receiving usurious interest." iMedicine is the di- gest of human knowledge. It is the great reservoir into which every stream of science pours its tribute, which in return spread its fertilizing water over every field that brings forth its ripe and abundant harvest." The want of a popular medical education, we have remarked, promotes the success of Empirics. To what else can the amazing increase of these creatures be as- cribed. Would they dare to quit the shades of their native insignificance, if they thought they were to en- counter the blaze of criticism, or to be inspected and scrutinized by the torch of truth? No: the terrors of such a process, were it practised,/WOuld exterminate the race, or leave to them only a beggarly account of empty boxes." We repeat that Empirics are nurtured and sustained exclusively by the prejudices of mankind in their fa- vour, arising from their inability to judge rightly of their merits. For can it be presumed that any one, who is at all acquainted with the subject, would repose the slightest confidence in the nostrums of the most stupid, illiterate, dishonest, and vagrant of society, who are confessedly destitute of even the elements, the mere al- phabet of medicine. 20 Freliminary Observations. Who can believe, that these nostrums^ as is generally asserted by their proprietors, are applicable equally to a variety of diseases, as opposite to each other as the poles, and that too, under every difference of age, con- stitution, temperament, habit, season, and climate? Is it to be credited that skill can be possessed in a profession the most complex, without any preparatory devotion to it? Reason and experience combine to as- sert the impossibility. The powers of eloquence or poetry, may be an inhe- ritance; but, medicine is not intuitive. Whoever ac- quires it, that is, that thorough knowledge of it, which confers surpassing skill," must undergo a slow, toil- some and arduous probation. Its temple is raised on the summit of the loftiest emi- nence, and the path which leads to it, winds in tedious tortuosity, narrow, intricate and perplexed; but strewed, at its different stages, with flowers to tempt, and hung at its termination with fruits to reward. Few, very few, have ever reached it. The majority of those who set out on the enterprise become soon discouraged, and either linger by the way, or are lost in its mazes. The energies of genius, assisted by unwearied dili- gence, can only hope to surmount the difficulties and to gain the prize. But candour must still allow that the Empiric strength- ens, in some degree, his credit with the public, by some- times performing great and imposing cures. Such in- stances, however, of occasional success, bring with them no solid claims to confidence. They are indeed calculated to excite distrust when properly viewed. Their cures, which are admitted to be few, are alone registered and promulgated. Nothing is ever said of the failures or the deaths produced. No regular and im- partial account is kept, nor any striking adjustment of balances. But, what must really be the fatality of a prac- tice conducted in a way so rash and indiscriminate, with- out the guide of either principle or experience? The nostrums employed are uniformly composed of ingre- dients of the greatest activity, principally of the mine- Freliminary Observations, 21 ral poisons, as arsenic, corrosive sublimate, calomel^ &c. and which can never be neutral in their operations. Whenever administered they assume a side in the pend- ing contest, and exert all their might either for the pa- tient or the disease, till one or the other yields. The preceding is a faithful picture of Empiricism — of its swaggering pretensions; of its danger, and its un- certainties; a plain and unvarnished tale, in which nought is extenuated or set down in malice." But with the too prevalent inclination for nostrums, we regret the strange aversion that exists and which pro- ceeds from the same neglect of medicine, to some of the most efficacious remedies. Tartar is denounced as a Qtxi^nnKl^stroyer of the stomach; mercury, because it lodges in the bones; arsenic, as rancorously poisonous, &c. Sec. Thus are those powerful and salutary agents, when in the hands of a judicious Physician, stigmatized by the false views of vulgar prejudice. It has been wise- ly and truly declared by high authority, *' that all me- dicines in large doses are poisons, and that poisons in small doses are the best medicines." This is no paradox. The efficacy of a remedy must be proportioned to its force, provided it be administered with discretion, and its operation properly restrained. On the contrary, the weakest medicine becomes poisonous when given in an undue quantity. In the use of medicines we should be careful to adapt them to the nature of the disease, and the condition of the patient's system at the time. For the salutary pro- perties of a remedy are not positive, but entirely rela- tive to the peculiar circumstances of the case. A remedy, therefore, may do harm, or prove benefit cial, according to the degree of judgment exercised in its employment. This position might easily be illustrat- ed and enforced by a variety of examples. We shall mention, however, only a few that are most pertinent. What then is more sanative in its effects than the Pe- ruvian bark in the treatment of intermittent fever or gangrene; or more deleterious if given in an excited system? Where is there a readier cleanser of a foul 22 Preliminary Observations, stomach than emetics? yet, in inflammations of that organ, nothing would prove so pernicious. The same remark appHes to cathartics, ** nature's scavengers of a gorged aiimentary canaL" With regard to the lancet: What could we do with- out it? Hovv quell those dreadful insurrections of acute disease which every where ravage our country? But indispensable as it is in such cases, yet there is, perhaps, no remedy, which is more mischievous when wrongly applied. W'ho has not experienced the soothing restorative operation of opium, that divine medicine, which has not with too much force been called, magnum Dei do- num," [the great gift of God;) and who has*ntt known its demoniacal influence when imprudently employed? In this way we might proceed through every class of the Materia Medica, deriving proofs to fortify our rea- soning, and to warn us of the danger of abusing reme- dies. Enough, however, has been said: we trust the admonition will not be neglected. To adopt and to accommodate, as we have indicated, the various medicines of which we are possessed, is the secret of successful practice, and constitutes the v/ide difference between the discriminating physician and empiric, i'he practice of tlie one is governed by principles slowly and cauiiously deduced from the contributions of long experience and diversilied observations; and that of the other is the result of daring experiment, sanction- ed only by the chances and calculations of the lottery. In the revolutions of the wheel, and amidst a thousand blanks, a prize will come out! Thus, an important cure bv an Empiric, like an enormous prize, seizes public at- tention, and is bounded abroad by the clarion of flime," while the evidence of the murderous practice, like the blanks of the lottery, are hushed in silence or buried in forgetfulness. It may be proper to observe here, that in using all active medicines, Ave should begin with the smallest do- ses, increasing them gradually, until the quantity suited Preliminary Observations, 23 to the strength of the constitution is discovered. For there are instances of constitutions on which one fourth, and even one tenth, of what would not affect others, will act powerfully. As the system speedily acconnmodates itself to the ac- tion of medicines, we should never continue one medi- cine too long at a time. When we find it is losing its ef- ficacy, it should be changed for some other of the same class, and after a short interval the patient may, if he choose, return to his first medicine. By thus varying the remedies, as the system becomes accustomed to their action, we shall be enabled to cure diseases which other- wise would not have yielded; as in obstinate intermit- tents, where I have frequently employed the bark with- out effect: but on changing it for either the solution of arsenic, or vitriolic pills,* a cure has generally taken place, and when it did not, by exciting a slight mercu- rial action in the system and immediately following it with one or the other of the above medicines, I have pretty constantly succeeded. On this account medicines should never be made too free with, as preventives of disease, unless there be evidently a morbid predisposi- tion lurking in the system: for by thus wantonly fami- liarizing ourselves to medicine when there exists no necessity for it, we shall stand a very good chance to be disappointed of its proper effects, in the season of our need. Bitters, those especially that are made with spirits, like other cordials, have no doubt their use at times, as in damp weather which hangs so heavily on the springs of life. But to use them or mint slings, or drams^ as some do every morning, even the briglitest, when dumb nature herself is smiling and every bird and beast is ut- tering its artless joy, is a species of suicide. It is a most wicked attempt to substitute artificial and false joys in place of those that are moi^t pure and natural. But such an impious fighting against God and Nature, generally turns out as might be expected. These wretched self- destroyers seldom live out half their days. For the same * Vid. Dispensatory. 24 Preliminary Observations, delightful exhilaration which ont- antifogmatic produced last year, requires two this year, and in that increase, till the habit of intemperate drinking is confirmed. How melancholy it is that rational beings should act so madly, and that the all bountiful Creator cannot intrust us with his good things, without our shameful abuse of them! Thus it is, that men turn into poisons those pleasant beverages that were given for cordials to raise their de- pressed spirits, to invigorate their flaccid nerves, and to enal)le nature to repel the various attacks of a humid or infected atmosphere. Among the many remedies of disease, there is none perhaps, that holds a higher place than the bath, in its diflTerent forms. The cold bath, by its sudden shock, is peculiarly fitted to invigorate the system and to re-ani- mate its circulations and secretions. Hence its acknow- ledged reputation in all cases of weak and relaxed ha- bits, particularly those of the studious and sedentary. It ought however to be remembered, that like every other remedy, it belongs but to one set of diseases. In affections of the viscera, obstructions and inflammations, it is hurtful. If after leaving the bath, the patient do not feel a kindly glow on the surface, he has good cause to fear that the angel of health was not there before him " to move the waters.'''' On going into the plunging bath, as it is call, d, it were better to dash in at once head foremost. The shock in this way is more instantaneous and the distribution of the blood more salutary than when it is driven, as by wetting the feet first, from the extremities to the head. It is on this principle that the shower bath possesses advantages superior to the piling- ing. Immediately on coming out of the bath the body should be rubbed dry with flannel or coarse cloths, and moderate exercise taken. Besides the advantages of general cold bathing, its partial use is no less salutary in all cases of local action. In periodical headach, and indeed in most complaints of the head, the aflfusion of cold water, though a simple, is a very eflfectual remedy. If persons subject to the quinsey and sore throat, in- Preliminary Observations, 25 stead of muffling their necks, would bathe them two or three times a day in cold water, they would find their account in it. When the healthy resort to the cold bath, on account of its purifying and pleasant effects, they may continue in it for some time. But to strengthen and give elasticity to the solids, every thing depends upon the sud- den shock. The time of day for bathing is a matter of indifference, provided it be not immediately after a full stomach, and when the body is warm and in a state of free perspiration. The warm badi, which is about the temperature of the blood, has nearly all the advantages of the cold bath, without being liable to so many objections. Some in- deed tell us, that it weakens the body, but so far from doing so, it may justly be considered as one of the most powerful and universal restoratives with which we are acquainted. Instead of heating, it cools the body, dimi- nishes the pulse, and takes off its unnatural quickness, according to the length of time the bath is continued. Hence tepid baths are of great service, when the body has been overheated, from whatever cause, whether by severe bodily or mental exercise. In all these cases, its happily composing and recuperative virtues, seem to be owing to its tendency to promote perspiration, and to relax spasm. Warm bathing, hardly can be sufficiently commend- ed for its sovereign effects in promoting cleanliness, and consequently for curing all diseases of obstructed per- spiration from foul skin. It is much to be lamented that so many poor children should be made the victims of their parents' laziness, and neglect of this most sweet and and healthful virtue, cleanliness. For would they devote a little of their mispent time and money to the more decent clothing and frequent washing of their children, there could be no doubt that those little innocents would enjoy ten thou- sand times more comfort than they can possibly expect while covered with filth, and tortured with scald-heads, blotches, itch, and vermin. In fine, having seen the fatal termination of so many diseases, in my opinion, ea- D 26 Preliminary Observations. sily curable by the bath, I cannot dismiss this impor- tant s'lbject without earnestly recommending it to every gentleman to provide for his family the convenience of bathing, as being not only one of the greatest luxu- ries, but the best preservatives of health in tliese warm climates. Not only is it essential to health, thus luxuriously to refresh the person by bathing and washing off the im- purities of the skin, but an equal solicitude should exist to remove all filth out of ihe chambers of the sick, and frequently to change their linen and bed clothes, which when saturated with foetid perspirable matter, must prove extremely unpleasant and hurtful to the patient. And here 1 cannot but breath the most fervent wish that my numerous friends, the Planters, for whose ser- vice chiefly this book is intended, would be persuaded to insist more rigorously on cleanliness in the persons of their slaves. That the constitution of the African is more firm than ours, and better fitted to sustain the toils of warm climates, is very certain; but it is equally true that his daily labours, vv ith the sudden changes of wea- ther, often put his constitution, good as it may be, to trials, which loudly call for every aid that humanity can possibly afford him. Of these aids, next to plenty of wholesome food, cleanliness is one of the greatest. It is indeed, a medicine both of body and mind. The poor- est slave, however degraded his condition may be, has still left a portion of mind, which can never be totally insensible to his outward appearance. Cover him with rags and filth, and you not only injure his body by ob- structing perspiration and corrupting the fluids, but you attack him in his mind: knowing that he appears vile and loathsome to others, he becomes much more so to himself. This idea embitters reflection, depresses his spirits, and in conjunction with other causes, often brings on diseases which press him to an untimely grave. Whereas by ordering him frequently to bathe, and by affording him three changes of apparel, of which he could always have one clean, you would greatly refresh and comfort him both in mind and body. Thinking that Preliminary Observations. 27 he makes a decent appearance in the eyes of others, he becomes well pleased with himself, and looking on his new habit, however cheap and simple, as an evidence of his master's affection and value foi him, he feels at once the touch of an honest pride in himself, and of friend- ship for his r/^aster, which lightens his task and sweet- ens all his toils. But, if cleanliness be of such importance to the health- ful, how much more so to the sick slave. When sinking; under the heat and burden of his labours, can it be good policy to suffer him to be put like a mere animal into a narrow dirty cabin; there left, with scarcely a child to hand him a cup of cold water,'''* with no food but dry bread, and breathing the foetid atmosphere of a sultry, filthy habitation! In such circumstances, what but a mi- racle can save him from destruction? Having been frequently an eye witness of such scenes, (of which the owner himself was, perhaps, ignorant,) I feel it my duty to advise him not only for humanity, but interest sake, to erect for his slaves, especially if he have many, a cheap, coarse kind of building as an hospital. This building should be fixed on some spot, enjoying in the highest degree, the double advantage of good wa- ter and air. It ought to consist of but one large room quite open to the top, well aired by doors and windows, and with a plank floor, that it may be frequently washed and kept perfectly clean. Some good tempered notable old woman of the family, should be appointed to attend the sick and supply the proper nourishment. In this cheap and simple way, many a valuable slave might, we are certain, be saved to his owner, which alone were an ample reward, without counting the present comfort of such humanity, or the future blessings of Him, who has promised, that " every act of love, even to the poor- est slave, shall be remembered as if done to himself." To the truly wonderful effects of this regimen, em- bracing cleanliness, fresh air, good nursing and diet, I, myself, can bear the most public and unequivocal tes- timony. In the year 1805, when our Summer and Autumnal 28 Preliminary Observatiofis. fever raged with uncommon violence and mortality in Savannah, having considerable practice among the ship- ping, I was induced, chiefly from motives of humanity, to open a private hospital for Seamen. And though I had usually from twenty to thirty patients during the sickly season, 1 lost but one of all who Ifad been taken into the hospital at an early stage of the disease. This extraordinary success, I ascribe in a great measure to the virtues of the regimen above recommended. And in support of this reasoning, I will venture to assert, that hardly an instaiice can be quoted of the recovery of sea- men when lelt negiected, or badly attended in the con- fined boarding-rooms, or steerages of the ships where they were attacked. The very happy result of the little Hospital system above stated, cannot but excite the most earnest wish for a similar establishment in Savannah, but on a much larger scale. Such an institution could not fail to prove a great blessing to the state, but more so to Savannah, where such numbers of useful citizens, especially sea- men, are annually swept off. It affords me pleasure to state, that since the appear- ance of this friendly hint, in the first edition of this work, the humane citizens of Savannah, have actually estab- lished an Hospital as above, and have found it abundantly productive of the good effects predicted. Fortunate would it be, if similar institutions were erected in all our seaports. In addition to the softer whispers of humaniti/i gratitude now lifts her louder voice to the nation, and surely our gallant sailors, principally the objects of such hospitals, have given glorious proofs in the late awful contest, that they deserve every mark of attention that a great nation in the plenitude of munificence can be- stow. OF THE STRUCTURE OF THE HUMAN MACHINE. How poor, how rich, how abject, how august. How complicate, how wonderful is man! How passin,^ wonder He who made him such! Who center'd in our make such strange extremes! From different natures, marvellously mixed! An heir of glory! a frail child of dust! Helpless immortal! insect infinite! A worm! a God! — I tremble at myself, And in myself am lost. Young. *' I am fearfully and wonderfully made, O Lord,^^ ex- claimed David on surveying the admirable mechanism of his own frame. Indeed so complicated and curious is the structure of this fabric, which has justly been termed the master-piece of God's works," that no person who contemplates it, can possibly avoid joining with the pious Psalmist. That illustrious physician of antiquity, Galen, is re- ported in his youth to have been a Sceptic, but on wit- nessing a dissection, and examining the mechanism of the human body, the divine wisdom and design run- ning through all its parts, he was struck with such a sense of the great Architect, that he immediately be- 30 Of the Structure of came a convert, and during his life devoted himself to the worship of the Deiiy with all the fervour becoming an enlightened and grateful mind. Having himself, hap- pily caught the first spark of Divine light from a sur- vey of this wonderful machine, he earnestly recom- mends to others the study of it as the noblest emj)loy- ment of the faculties, and one of the surest guides to rational devotion. His thoughts on this subject, though emanating from a heathen, are well worth the attention of all Christians. — " Those treatises," says he, '* which display the excellencies of the great Creator, com- pose one of the noblest and most acceptable hymns. To acquaint ourselves with his sublime perfections, and point out to others his infinite power, his unerring WISDOM, and his boundless benignity — this is a more substantial act of devotion, than to slay hecatombs of victims at his altar, or kindle mountains of spices into incense." Now, as one object of the " Medical Companion" is to treat of the art of preserving this divine piece of workmanship in a healthy state, nothing can impress us more forcibly than the absolute necessity of being made acquainted with its parts, and the laws that govern them. Without some knowledge thereof, it appears no more rational or possible to take the right care of it, or to keep it in good order, than it would be for a man to perpetuate the regular motion of a clock or time piece, who was totally ignorant of its mechanism. The study of Anatomy^ as it leads to the knowledge of NATURE, needs not, says the illustrious Cheselden, many tedious descriptions, nor minute dissections; what is most worth knowing is soonest learned, and least sub- ject to difiiculty, while dividing and describing the parts more that the knowledge of their uses requires, per- plex the learners, and make the science tedious, dry, and difficult. Upon this principle, the following anatomical descrip- tion of the human body is conducted; and to render it perfectly intelligible to the uninformed readers, techni- cal terms have, as much as possible, been avoided. 4 the Human Machine. 31 When a master-builder (says the celebrated Her- vey, whose sublime sentiments on this theme, are at once so elegant and appropriate, that I have taken the liberty, frequently to use them) undertakes to erect a magnificent edifice, he begins with the less decorated, but more solid parts, those which are to support^ or to contain the rest/' This order we will follow in consi- dering the structure of the human frame. The Bones are the hardest and most solid parts of the human machine, cast into a variety of moulds, en- larged or contracted into a variety of sizes, and calcu- lated from their strength, to support the whole body. The manner of their articulation is truly admirable, and remarkably various; yet never varied without demon- strating some wise design and answering some valuable end. They contain marrow, which makes them less brittle, and are covered with a membrane, or thin sub- stance like a bladder, called periosteum (except on the skull, where it is called pericranium) which is exqui- sitely sensible in an inflamed state, being plentifully sup- plied with nerves and blood-vessels. Its use is to sus- tain the vessels which enter the substance of the bones with their nourishment. The head, designed for the resi- dence of the brain, is framed in exact conformity to this important purpose, ample to receive it; strong to uphold it; and firm to defend it. The Ribs, turned into a regular arch, are gently moveable for the act of respiration. They form a secure lodgment for the lungs and the heart. The Back- bone is intended not only to strengthen the body, and sustain its most capacious store-rooms; but also to bring down that appendage of the brain, which is usually termed Spinal marrow. The Arms, pendent on either side, are exactly pro- portioned to each other, that the equilibrium of the structure may not be disconcerted. These being the 32 Of the Structure of guards which defend, and the ministers which serve the whole body, are fitted for the most diversified and ex- tensive operations; firm with bone, yet not weighty with flesh; and capable of performing with singular expedition and ease, all manner of useful motions. To these are annexed the hands^ and all terminated by the fingers; which are not, like the arms, of the same length, and of equal bigness, but consisting of various little bones, and a multitude of muscles: what shape can they not assume? what service can they not perform? The Thighs and Legs are alike substantial and state- ly columns; articulated in such a manner, that they ad- minister most commodiously to the act of walking, yet obstruct not the easy posture of sitting. The legs swell out, towards the top, with a gentle projection; and are wrought off, towards the bottom, with neat diminutions. Which variation lessens their bulk, at the same time that it increases their beauty. The Feet compose the firmest and neatest pedestal; infinitely beyond all that statuary or architecture can accomplish; capable of altering its form, and extending its size, as different circumstances require. Besides performing the oflSce of a pedestal, they contain a set of the neatest springs, which help to place the body in a variety of graceful attitudes, and qualify it for a multi- plicity of advantageous motions. The undermost part of the heel, and the extremity of the sole, are shod with a tough, insensible, sinewy substance. This we may call a natural sandal. It never wears out, never wants repair, and always prevents that undue compression of the vessels, which the weight of the body, in walking or standing, might otherwise occasion. While many animals creep on the ground, while all of them are prone in their posture or their aspect, the attitude of man is erect. Which is by far the most graceful, has an air of dignity, and bespeaks superiori- ty. It is by far the most commodious; fits us for the the Human Mad tine. 33 prosecution of every grand scheme, and facilitates the success of all our extensive designs. It is likewise at- tended with the greatest safety; being, if not less than any other position exposed to dangers, yet more hap- pily contrived to repel or avoid them. The Cartilages approach much to the nature of bones, but are smooth and elastic. In them there is no sensible cavity for containing marrow, nor are they co- vered with any membrane to render them sensible as the bones are. They serve to make the bones, whose extremities they cover, move freely in their joints. They also contribute, in a great measure, to the forma- tion of several parts, as the wind-pipe, nose, ears, and breast. The Ligaments are tough, compact substances, more flexible than cartilages. I'hey have no conspicuous ca- vities, neither have they any sensibility, lest they should suffer upon the motion of the joint. They serve to unite the several limbs, and prevent their parting from each other, as happen in dislocations. The Muscles are distinct portions of soft, red flesh, with strong tendinous heads and tails designed for in- sertion. — They are composed of the slenderest fibres, yet indued with incredible strength; fashioned after a variety of patterns, but all in the highest taste for ele- gance, conveniency and usefulness. These with their tendons annexed, constitute the instruments of motion. The former contracting their substance, operate some- what like the pulley in mechanics. The latter resem- bling the cord, are fastened to a bone, or so'ue portion of flesh; and following the muscular contraction, actuate the part into which they are inserted. This, and all their functions, they execute, not like a sluggish beast of burden, but quick as lightning. Nature having inserted a nerve or more in each muscle, sets them at work; dif- fuses the power of sensation through the body; or, re- turning upon an impression from without, gives all E 34 Of the Structure of needful intelligence to the soul: so that flesh and nerve« are the principal constituents of a muscle. Inwardly they supply the several movements of the active machine: Outxvardlt/ they render its appearance plump, well pro- portioned, and graceful. The strength of the muscles is astonishing in all per- sons, but especially in cases of phrenzy, and in certain extraordinary characters, who, by the use of a few mus- cles only, will easily raise a weight much greater than that of their own bodies. The Tendons^ although much smaller than the body of the muscle, are composed of the same number of fibres. They are not capable of contraction, but serve like ropes to pull when the fleshy fibres act, for the commodiousness and firmness of insertion, and for the direction of motion. The use of the tendons is to avoid a large quantity of flesh near the joint, to prevent clumsiness in particu- lar places, and for the better admitting of that friction, which, in less compact parts, would have been inju- rious. The Nerves are surprisingly minute, white cords de- rived from the brain, running to every part of the body. They perform two distinct oflfices; the one is, convey- ing sensation from all parts of the body to the brain. — Whatever impression is made, whether of an agreeable or disagreeable nature, on any part of the body, imme- diate intelligence of it is conveyed by those faithful sen- tinels to the seat of intellect. The other offices, perform- ed by the nerves, is carrying the commands of the will from that seat to all the different parts of the body; in consequence of which the limbs and body are moved, in a great variety of directions, as the will ordains. For, most of the muscles of the body which produce motion, are in the guidance of our will; some of them, however^ are entirely independent of it, as those of the heart, and vessels which carry on the circulation of the blood; and some are partly under the direction of our will, and part- ly independent of it, as those of respiration. the Human Machine, 35 But all the muscles, the involuntary, as well as the voluntary, are enabled to act only by their communica- tion with the brain; for when that is cut off by the de- struction of the connecting nerve, whatever impression is made ou the part can no longer be felt; the orders of the will to that part can no longer be obeyed, and the part itself can no longer move. The Arteries are strong elastic tubes which arise from the heart; and thence striking out, as they go, into num- berless smaller canals or branches, distribute the blood to every part of the body. These being wide at their ori- gin, and lessening as they branch themselves, check the rapid motion of the blood. To sustain this shock, they are indued with uncommon strength; by perform- ing this service they oblige the crimson current to pass into the narrowest defiles^ and distribute itself into all quarters. The blood thrown from the heart dilates the arteries, and their own elastic force contracts them. By which means, they vibrate in proper places, very perceiv- ably against the finger; bring advices of the utmost im- portance to the physician; and very much assist him both in discovering the nature of diseases, and prescrib- ing for their cures. The larger arteries, wherever the body is formed for bending, are situated on the bending side; lest, being stretched to an improper length by the inflection, their dimensions should be lessened, and the circulating fluid retarded. They are not, like several of tlie considerable veins, laid so near the surface as to be protrusive of the skin; but are deposited at a proper depth in the flesh. This situation renders them more se- cure from external injuries. The V nns are tubes or vessels which accompany the arteries, and are appointed to receive the blood from their extremities, and reconvey it to the heart. Small at their rise, and enlarging as they advance, they are void of any pulsation. In these, the pressure of the circulating fluid is not near so forcible as in the arteries; for which reason their texture is considerably slighter. In many 36 Of the Structure of places they have valves, because the slow motion of the blood in the veins, and their weaker contractile power, unassisted by a force adequate to that of the heart, have s:reat need of such an invention to ensure its return to the heart. The Secretory vessels are minute tubes in the differ- ent organs, which serve to separate and strain off the different fluids from the general mass of blood. The Excretory vessels arc those tubes which also belong to the different organs, whose office is to carry off the humours that are separated. The Glands^ commonly called Kernels, are small bo- dies of finely interwoven vessels, whose office it is to se- crete or separate fluids from the blood for particular uses, as spittle in the mouth, bile in the liver, milk in the breast, Sec. Glands, when obstructed, become large and indurated, from which scirrhus and cancers are pro- duced. The Membranes are thin tunicles or fine webs like a bladder, appointed to enwrap the fleshy parts; to form a connection between some; to line the cavities, and make a separation between others. The Fibres are simple thread-like bodies, which serve to form other parts; hence some are very hard, as the bony ones; and others soft, as the fleshy parts. The Skin^ like a curious surtout, exactly fitted, en- velopes the whole, formed of the most delicate net- work; whose meshes are minute, and whose threads are multiplied even to a prodigy. The meshes are so minute^ that nothing which is discernible to the eye passes them; though they discharge every moment myriads of super* fluous incumbrances from the body. — The steam arising from the warm business transacted within, is carried off by these real, though imperceptible funnels; which con- the Human Machine. 37 stitutes what we usually call insensible perspiration, A . single grain of sand, according to Mr. Lewenhouk, will cover no less than one hundred and twenty-five thou- sand of the^e funnels, or what has been prettily styled " cutaneous chimneys,^'' The threads are so multiplied,, that the point of the smallest needle cannot pierce any single part without causing an uneasy sensation, and an effusion of blood; consequently without v/ounding, even by so small a puncture, both a nerve and a blood-vessel. The outermost covering of the body is that soft whitish tegument which rises in the pustule of a blister, and is called scarf-skin. The next, or true-skin, is that reddish and exquisitely tender part which appears when the blister is broken, and the dead skin taken off. The first is void of sense, and intended to screen the second, not only from the stroke of injuries, but even from the impressions of the air, which, mild as it may feel to the sheathed, would be too rough and sharp for the naked nerves. The natural colour of the cuticle is white. The ap- parent black or brown colour in the African or Indian, is entirely owing to the mucous substance under it. The skin unites in itself two very essential functionSo It is the organ of the sense of the touch; it is the chan- nel of perspiration. For this purpose, innumerable nerves and vessels are dispersed throughout the skin, which are in the continual act of feeling, and at the same time, of secreting and volatilizing noxious parti- cles. It has been proved by accurate experiments, that the healthy individual daily and insensibly perspires up- wards of three pounds weight of superfluous and im- pure humours. It may, therefore, be confidently as- serted, that no part of the body is provided with so many important organs, by which it is connected with almost every operation performed in animal life, as the skin. By this organization^ we are placed in immediate connexion with the surrounding atmosphere, which par- ticularly affects us through the skin, and exerts its in- fluence on our heahh; We farther feel directly through that medium, the qualities of the air, heat, cold, pres- sure and rarefaction. 38 Of the Structure of Important as the skin is to external life, it is no less to the internal economy of the body, where it appears to be peculiarly designed to preserve the grand equili- brium of the different systems, by which the human frame is supported in its vital, animal, and sexual func- tions. If any stagnation, accumulation, or irregularity arise in the fluids, the skin is the great and ever- ready conductor, through which the superfluous particles are separated, the noxious volatilized, and the fluids, stag- nating in their course, eftectually attenuated; a canal be- ing at the same time opened for the removal of those humours, which if they could get access to the vital parts, such as the heart and brain, would cause inevi- table destruction. By the proper exercise of this or- gan, many diseases may be suppressed in their early stages; and those which h^ve already taken place, may be most eflfectually removed. No disease whatever can be healed without the co-operation of the skin. The na- ture and constitution of this organ most certainly deter- mine either our hope or apprehension for the safety of the patient. In the most dangerous inflammatory dis- eases, when the prospect of recovery is but gloomy, a beneficial change of the skin is the only effort by which nature, almost overcome, relieves herself, and ejects the poison in a surprising manner, frequently in the course of one night. The greatest art of a physician, indeed, consists in the proper management of this extensive or- gan, and in regulating its activity, where occasion re- quires. To mention only one circumstance; it is well known to those who have experienced the beneficial effects of a simple blister, that its stimulus, like a charm, has frequently relieved the most excruciating pains and spasms in the internal parts. When the sensibility of the surface is impaired; when the myriads of orifices that are designed for the con- tinual purification of our fluids, are obstructed, if not closed; when the subtle nervous texture is nearly de- prived of its energy, so that it becomes an impenetrable coat of mail^ is there any reason to wonder that we are so often harassed by a sense of constraint and anxiety, the Human Machine, 39 and that this uneasiness, in many cases, terminates in gloom and melancholy? Ask the Hypochondriac, whether a certain degree of the cold, paleness, and spasmodic sensation in the skin, does not always precede his most violent fits of imbecility; and whether his feelings are not most comfortable, when the surface of his body is vigorous, warm, and perspires freely? In short, the de- grees of insensible perspiration are to him the surest barometer of his state of mind. If our skin be disor- ganised, the free inlets and outlets of the electric, mag- netic, and other matters, which affect us at the change of the weather, are inactive. Thus the origin of extreme sensibility towards the various atmospheric revolutions, is no longer a mystery; for, in a healthy surface of the body, no inconvenience will follow from such changes. If we farther advert to those acrimonious fluids, which, in consequence of an imperfect state of perspiration, are retained in the body, and which affect the most sensible nerves and membranes, we shall the better comprehend how cramps and spasms, the torturing pains of the gout and rheumatism, and the great variety of cutaneous diseases, have of late become so obstinate and general. The just proportion of the fluids, and the circulation of the blood, are also determined in no small degree, by the skin; so that if these fluids become languid, the whole momentum of the blood is repelled towards the interior parts. Thus a continual plethora, or fulness of the blood, is occasioned; the head and breast are greatly oppressed; and the external parts, especially the lower extremities, feel chilly and languid. May we not infer, from what has been advanced, that the use of baths is too much neglected, and ought to be universally introduced? Bathing is considered an excellent remedy for allevi- ating both mental and bodily affections. It is not merely a cleanser of the skin, enlivening and rendering it more fit for performing its offices; it also refreshes the mind, and spreads over the whole system a sensation of ease, activity and pleasantness. It likewise removes stagna- tion in the larger, as well as in the smaller vessels, gives Of the Structure of an uniform, free circulation to the blood, and preserves that wonderful harmony in our interior organs, on the disposition of which our health and comforts so much depend. A person fatigued, or distressed in body and miiid, will derive more refreshment from the luxury of a tepid bath, and may drown his disquietude in it more effectually, than by indulging in copious libations to Bacchus. There subsists so intimate a relation between our in- terior and exterior vessels, that almost every error or ir- regularity in the organs within, shows itself first on the surface of the body, particularly on the face. How often are we struck with the countenance of a person who thinks himself in perfect health, but whose illness, the result of some morbid cause, concealed in the body, justifies, in a few days, the serious apprehensions we entertained at our last interview? Nature has wisely or- dained, that the first appearance of internal irregularities should be indicated by the countenance; but to what do we generally apply this index? We refuse to avail our- selves of her beneficent intimation; and the continued use of pernicious substances, instead of promoting the ob- ject we have in view, ultimately tarnishes and impairs that beauty which we meant to adorn and pre-serve. The secret venom, circling in her veins. Works through her skin, and bursts in bloating stains; Her cheeks their freshness lose, and wonted grace, And an unusual paleness spreads her face. Granville. We imagine it in our power to improve the skin, without attending to the purity of the fluids, though it is indebted to them for its very existence; and yet we should smile at a person, who should attempt to cleanse an impure tongue by constantly scraping it, when a dis- ordered stomach was the real cause of that impurity. the Human Machine* 41 The Cellular Membrane^ so called from its numerous cells, adheres very closely to the skin, running between the muscles in general, and between their several fibres in particular; and communicating with the membrane which lines the inside of the breast and belly. — All its cells communicate with each other throughout the whole body, so that from any one part the whole may be filled w ith air, as is evident in beasts, from the butch- ers blowing up their lean meat with air when newly killed, and in emphysema, where the air from a broken rib, getting into one of the cells, forces its way into all the rest, distending the body to a frightful size; as also, in general dropsy, wherein all the cells, filled wdth w^ater, may, by puncture, be emptied in the course of a night. In health this membrane is filled with an oily substance, which gives an agreeable rotundity to the limbs. It is also the seat of biles, and contributes to keep the inner parts warm and pliant; and, by filling the interstices of the muscles, renders the surface of the body smooth and plump. The Head, that majestic dome, being the seat of the brain, in which the soul is supposed to reside, resem- bles the GeneraVs tent in an army, or the Monarch's pa- lace in a city. It has a communication established with all, even the most remote parts of the system, has out- lets and avenues, for the ready despatch of couriers to all quarters; and for the reception of speedy intelligence on every interesting occasion. It is furnished with lodg- ments wherein to post sentinels of various characters, and appoint to various ofiSces — to expedite their opera- tions; whether they are employed in reconnoitering what passes without, or examining what claims admittance within; the whole turns upon a curious pivot, most nicely contrived to afford the largest and freest circum- volutions. This stately capitol is screened from heat, defended from cold, and, at the same time, beautified by a copious growth of hair. The GREAT CREATOR, profuscly gracious to man- kind, has made us an inestimable present of the senses; F 42 Of the Structure of to be the inlets of innumerable pleasures, and the means of administering the most valuable advantages. High in the head, bright and conspicuous as a star in the brow of evening, is placed the eye. In this elevated si- tuation, like a sentinel posted in his watch-tower, it commands the most enlarged prospect. Consisting only of simple fluids, enclosed in thin tunicles, it conveys to our apprehension all the graces of blooming nature, and all the glories of the visible heavens. How prodigiously wonderful! that an image of the highest mountains, and a transcript of the most diversified landscapes, shall en- ter the small circlet of the pupil! How surprisingly artful! that the rays of light, like an inimitable pencil, should paint on the optic nerves, paint in an instant of time, paint in their truest colours and exact est lineaments, every species of external objects. The Eye is so tender, that a slight accident, scarce perceivable by some other parts of the body, proves very injurious to its delicate frame. It is guarded, there- fore, with the most solicitous care; with a care evident- ly proportioned to its nice texture, and extensive use- fulness. It is entrenched deep in the head, and barricad- ed on every side with a strong fortification of bones. The wisdom and goodnc ss of the Creator appear in the astonishing apparatus of muscles with which the eye is furnished, to produce all the necessary and convenient motions in the situation where it is placed. The eye- brows serve to defend this delicate organ from too strong a light; and 'as the incursion of the smallest fly would incommode the polished surface, it is farther de- fended by two substantial curtains (eye-lids) hung on a most slender cartilaginous rod, which secure it from floating dust and from every troublesome annoyance. In sleep, when there is no occasion to exercise the sense, but an absolute necessity to protect the organ, these curtains spontaneously close, and never fail to lie shut. On the inside of these curtains or eye-lids, lie glands, which secrete a limpid fluid, that lubricates the eye- ball, as often as we wink, or, as it were, oils its wheels, and fits it for a course of unwearied activity. the Human Machine. 43 The Ear consists of an outward porch and inner cham- bers, with tools of the most admirable contrivance, and finished workmanship. The porch is that cartilaginous substance, standing somewhat prominent from the head, covered with a tight expansion of the skin, and wrought into irregular bends and hollows; which, like circling hills, or surrounding rocky shores, collect the wander- ing undulations of the air, and transmit them with a vi- gorous impulse, to the finely stretched membrane of the tympanum, or drum of the ear. The avenue ^ or nar- row entry, is secured from the insinuating attempts of little insects, by a morass of bitter and viscous matter, disgustful to their taste, and embarrassing to their feet. The hammer and the anvil; the stirrup and the drwn; the winding labyrinths, and the rounding galleries; these and other pieces of mechanism, all instrumental to the power of hearing, are, beyond description, curious. Amazingly nice must be the formation and incon- ceivably exact the tension of the auditory nerves, since they correspond with the smallest tremours of the atmo- sphere, and easily distinguish their most subtle varia- tions. With the gende gales that fan us, or even with the ruder blasts that assault us, these delicate strings are but little affected. Whereas, they are perfect unisons with those fine, those significant agitations of the air, which the acutest touch is unable to discern. These living cords, tuned by an Almighty hand, and diffused through the echoing aisles, and sonorous cells, these re- ceive the impressions of sound and propagate them to the brain. These give existence to the charms of mu- sic, and reciprocate the rational entertainments of dis- course. The eye perceives only the objects that are be- fore it; whereas the ear warns us of transactions that pass above us, behind us, all around us. The eye is useless amidst the gloom of night, and cannot carry its observation through the bolted door or the closed win- dow-shutter; but the ear admits her intelligence through the darkest medium, and the minutest cranny. Hence, when we cannot see our friend, because of an interpos- ing' partition, yet by the friendly aid of this organ, we can learn that he is in the adjoining room by his voicej 44 Of the Structure of or that he is near by his steps. The eye is upon duty only in our waking hours; but the ear is always ex- panded, and always accessible; a courier which never tires; a sentry ever in his box. To secure a resource, in case any misfortune should disable o/zc of the hearing or seeing organs, our all gracious maker has given us duplicates of each. As there are tremulous concwssions impressed upon the air, discernible only by the instruments of hearing; there are also odoriferous particles wafted by the same serial vehicle, which are perceivable only by the smell. The Nostrils are wide at the bottom, that a large quantity of effluvia may enter; narrow at the top, that when entered, they may close their ranks, and act with greater vigour. Fine, beyond all imagination, are the streams which exhale from foetid or fragrant bodies. — The very best microscopes, which discover thousands and tens of thousands of animalcules in a drop of putre- fied water, cannot bring one individual among all these evanescent legions to our sight. They sail in number- less squadrons, close to our eyes, close by our ears; yet are so amazingly attenuated, that they elude the search of both. Nevertheless, so judiciously are the olfactory nets laid, and so artfully their meshes seized, that they catch these vanishing fugitives. They catch the roaming perfumes, which fly off from the opening honey- suckle, and take in the stationed sweets which hover round the expanded rose. They imbibe all the balmy fragrance of spring, all the aromatic exhalationsof autumn, and enable us to banquet even on the invisible dainties of nature. Furnished with these several organs, not a breeze Flies o^er the meadows, not a cloud imbibes The settijig suit's effulgence, not a strain From all the tenants of the warbling shade Ascends, but whence our senses can partake Fresh pleasure, Ak EN SIDE. the Human Machine, 45 Another capacity for frequent pleasure, our bountiful CREATOR has bestowed, in the power of taste; by means of which the food that supports our body, feasts our pa- late; first treats us with a pleasing regale, then distri butes its beneficial recruits. The razor, whetted with oil, becomes more exquisitely keen. The saliva^ flowing upon the tongue, and moistening its nerves, quickens them into the liveliest acts of sensation. This sense is circumstanced in a manner peculiarly benign and wise; so as to be a standing, though silent plea for temperance. The sight, the smell, the taste, are not only so many separate sources of delight, but a joint security to our healih. They are the vigilant and accurate inspectors which examine our food, and inquire into its proper- ties, whether it be pleasant or disagreeable, wholesome or noxious. For the discharge of this office, they are ex- cellently qualified, and most commodiously situated; so that nothing can get admission through the mouth, till it has undergone the scrutiny, and obtained the pass- port of them all. To all these, as a most necessary and advantageous supplement, is added the sense of feeling; which ren- ders the assemblage complete. While other senses have a particular place of residence, this is diffused through- out the whole body. In the palms of the hands, on the tips of the fingers, and indeed through all the extreme parts of the flesh, it is most quick and lively. The whole army of Xerxes drawn out in battle array, with his miU lions of supernumerary attendants, were but like a few gleaners straggling in the field, if compared, either in number or order, with those nervous detachments, which pervade the texture of the skin, and minister to the act of feeling. The crowning gift, that which improves the satisfac- tion, and augments the beneficial effects accruing from all the senses, is speech. Speech makes me a gainer from the eyes and ears of other people; from the ideas they conceive, and the observations they make. And what an admirable instrumeiU for articulating the voice, and 46 Of the Structure of modifying it into speech, is the tongue! The tongue has neither bone nor joint; yet fashions itself, with the ut- most volubility, into every shape and every posture, which can express sentiment, or constitute harmony. — This little collection of muscular fibres, under the con- ductinj^^ skill of the creator, is the artificer of our words. By this we communicate the secrets of the breast, and make our very thoughts audible. By this we instruct the ignorant, and comfort the distressed; we glorify God, and edifv each other. Who would not bless for this the gift of speech. And in the tongue's beneficence be rich? But still, what is this mansion of flesh, though so ex- quisitely wrought, compared with the noble and im- mortal inhabitant, which resides witliin? " That intellectual being, Those thoughts, which wander through eternity, I'he Mind or Soul has a much higher origin than that of the perishable frame, with which it is at present con- nected. It is neither nerves, nor the nervous fluids. These are only its agents, in this its imj>risoned state. When the silver cord"*"^ is broken, which connects mind and MATTER together, vitality ceases^; the body then, with ail its artful and numerous vessels, fibres and nerves, and other exquisite machinery, undergoes decomposition, and is turned into its original elementb; but the immor- tal SOUL, having shaken off this coil, is destined for a new residence; to flourish in eternal youth; to outlive the wreck of elements, and the crush of worlds. It is embodied even in its residence in another world. Thou fuol," says the Philosopher and Apostle, " that seed which thou sowest is not quickened except it die." — And that which thou sowest is not that body which shall be; but God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed its own body. So also is the re- the Human Machine. 47 siirrection of the dead. The body is sown in the earth in dishonour, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weak- ness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual. Behold I show you a mystery. VVe shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a mo- ment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised in- corruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corrup- tible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." Man therefore is not what he will hereafter be. \Vhat we discover of him here below, is only the gross foldage^ under which he crawls upon the earth, and which he must shortly cast off. The animal body has no other relation than to this earth; the spiritual body will have enjoyments which ear hath not heard, nor hath h entered into the heart of man to conceive;^ ^iitw senses will disclose themselves, and, by multiplying his perfections in an almost infinite degree, his sphere will be aggrandized, and he will be equal to superior intelligences. Revelation informs us it will be so; and the parable of the seed is the most expressive and philosophic emblem of this wonderful pre-ordination. The senses, as they will be brought into subjection to the soul, will no longer rule over her. Separated from flesh and blood, there will remain in her none of those earthly affections which resulted from them. — Trans- ported into the regions of light, the human understand- ing will present no ideas to the will, but those of high- est good. It will then have no other than the lavvful de- sires, and God will be their constant and ultimate end. It will love him from gratitude; will fear him from a principle of love; and will adore him as the supremely amiable being, and as the eternal source of life, perfec^ tion, and happiness. Christians, who believe this doctrine of life, can ye have any dread of death? Your immortal spirits continue ally cleave to matter, and they are indissoluble; being henceforth united to an unperishable, and differently or- ganized body, she looks upon death as a happy trans- 48 Of the Structure of n)utation, which, by disengaging the seed from its cover- ing, will give a new being to the plant. " O death, where is then thy sting! O grave, where is thy victory!" The Thorax or breast, is situated between the belly and neck. The front part is commonly called the breast; the posterior part the back, and the lateral parts the right and left sides. Before we take notice of the internal parts, it may be proper to speak of the mammas or breasts. These are two glandular bodies, of a roundish oval figure, most remarkable in women. The time of their growing full in the female is about the age of fourteen or fifteen, and that of their decreasing, is about the fiftieth year. The breasts are composed of a vast multitude of minute vessels to secrete the milk from the blood. These vessels, as they approach the nipple, fall into, and form eight or ten larger pipes, which are connected together with admirable skill, that, in case of any obstruction or accident in any one or more of them, the milk might not be obstructed. The swelling of the breasts during the time of ges- tation, is owing to the consent between them and the womb. The cavity of the breast is lined by a fine smooth membrane, named pleura, and contains those two grand organs, the heart and lungs. The Lungs are divided into two larger portions, call- ed lobes; the one on the right, and the other on the left side. The vessels which enter the lungs, are the trachea or wind-pipe, by which we draw in the air, the pulmonary artery, which comes from the right ventricle of the heart, and the pulmonary vein, whose trunk opens into the left ventricle of the heart; each of these divides into two branches. The lungs differ from every other part of the body in this respect; the wind-pipe, in its minutest ramifica- tions, passes through all parts of its substance, terminate the Human Machine. 49 ing every where in air vesicles for the grand purpose of respiration, which keeps it in a continued state of action and re-action. Hence, when the lungs are diseased, their motion is not only increased by the respiration being* quickened, but they suffer violent concussion by the means of coughing. This circumstance renders disor ders of the lungs more peculiarly difficult to cure. The Heart is a strong, active, indefatigable, muscular body, of a conical figure, included in an exceedingly strong membranous bag, called the pericardium or heart-purse, and situated in the cavity of the chest. It has two separate cavities, called ventricles, out of which issue the two large arteries of the human body, one • called pulmonary, or artery of the lungs, the other aorta, or large artery of the body, fram which all the other ar- teries go off, as 'branches of a tree from its trunk, divid- ing themselves into minute ramifications in their pro- gress. Near the mouths of these two ventricles are two other hollovv^s, which, from their similitude to dog's ears, are called auricles, into which the veins, returning from all parts of the body with the blood, empty them- selves, through two large trunks or channels. It has two motions called systole and diastole; the former is when it contracts itself, and thereby forces the bjood into the arteries. The diastole is when it relaxes itself, and re- ceives the blood from the veins. The ventricles of the heart are each capable of receiving an ounce of blood or more, and therefore being full in their diastole, wc may suppose that they throw out at least one ounce of blood each systole. The heart contracts .about four thousand times in an hour, more or less, according to the differ- ent temperaments, sexes and ages; and, therefore, there pass through the heart every hour, four thousand ounces, or two hundred and fifty pounds weight of blood. Now the common opinion is, that the whole mass of blood does not exceed twenty-five pounds, and, therefore, ac- cording to this allowance, a quantity of blood equal to the whole mass, passes through the heart ten times in an hour, that is about an ounce every second. If G 50 Of the Structure of the heart contract eighty times in a minute, then twenty- five pounds weight of blood pass through its ventricles once in five minutes, or twelve times in an hour. — The farther the blood moves from the heart, its velocity de- creases as the artery divides into more branches, so much so, that the blood moves 5233 times slower in some capillary arteries than it does in the aorta or great artery. The blood is received from the arteries into the veins, where it still moves more slowlv as it returns to the heart again. The arteries arc to the veins as 324 to 441, and consequently the blood moves in the veins above 7116 times slower than it does in the aorta. The heart is the grand organ of the circulation of the . blood, and, consequently, of life. Impelled by this beat- ing engine, part of the blood shoots upward; and sweeps, with a bounding impetus, into the head. There it im- pregnates the prolific fields of the brain; and forms those subtile spirituous dews, which impart sense to ever)'^ nerve, and communicate motion to every limb. — Part flows downward; rolls the reeking current through all the lower quarters; and dispenses the nutrimental stores, even to the meanest member, and the minutest vessel. Observe, how the stately Thames^ and the lordly Po- tomac^ refresh the forest and groves; water the towns which crowd their banks; and make the meadows they intersect, laugh and sing. So, only with an incompara- bly richer fluid, and with inflnitely more numerous streams, this human river laves the several regions of tlic body, transfusing vigour, and propagating health through the whole. The living flood never discontinues its interchangeable tide; but, night and day, whether we sleep or wake, still perseveres to sally briskly through the arteries, and return softly through the veins. Such astonishing expedients are used to elaborate the chyle, to blend it with the blood, and to distribute both through the body, that the animal constitution is perfect- ly maintained. In youth, its bulk is increased; in age, its decays are repaired; and it is kept in tenantable con- dition for the soul, during the space of seventy or eighty years. the Human Machine, 51 The doctrine, taught by the immortal Harvey, the discoverer of the circulation of the blcod, is, that all the veins of the body falling into two trunks, viz. the as- cending and descending cava, empty themselves into the right auricle of the heart. The right auricle unloads into the right ventricle of the heart, which throws the blood through the pulmonary artery, into the lungs, by its two branches, which go to the right and left lobes. From the lungs the blood is brought back by the pul- monary veins, into the left auricle, and thence it passes into the left ventricle, from which it is distributed through the body by the aorta, or large artery and its branches. These terminate in the veins of tl>e body, which collect the blood and bring it back to the heart, by the two cava, or large veins. In other words, the blood is conveyed from the left ventricle of the heart by the aorta and its branches, to the minutest and most remote parts of the body, and then, passing from the extremities of the smallest arte- ries into the incipient veins, circulates through them into their larger branches, and so on into the right auricle of the heart, thence into the right ventricle, whence it is^ forced (with the fresh supplies that it receives from the chyle in passing through the subclavian vein) into the pulmonary artery, and after circulating through, and be- ing acted upon by the lungs, in its passage through them, is returned by the pulmonary vein, into the left auricle, and thence into the left ventricle, and so on, the same round, until death concludes the progress. There is in the consideration of the organs perform- ing the circulation of the blood, an air of grandeur that seizes forcibly on the mind, and penetrates it with the highest admiration. V/ e perceive that the blood, every time it is returned to the right ventricle of the heart, is direcdy dispersed through the lungs, and immediately reconveyed to the heart, before it is permitted to begin a new circulation. In the study of nature throughout all her work, how- ever complex the machine, the utility of each part ever claims the admiratipn of the speculative mind. The ob- 52 Of the Structure of servation is beautifully illustrated on the present occa- sion, and " I believe it will be admitted by every one (says the ingenious Author of the Medical Extracts) that the blood, after having performed one round, throughout the animal economy, undergoes some new and important change in its transit through the lungs, especialiv requisite to support a second circulation. — This change is certainly the oxygenation of the blood, and we should expect if oxygen be the natural stimulus to the heart, and arteries, that their pulsation would be Ui proportion as the blood had access to this principle." That animal heat depends upon the action of the arte- ries, and the circulation of the blood in general, is very natural to imagine; because whatever increases the ve- locity of the circulation, whether exercise, friction, or disease, also increases the internal heat; whereas faint- ing, hemorrhage, and whatever produces a weak and languid circulation, also diminishes the heat of the body. VVhen a ligature is put around an artery, so as to prevent the blood from being carried to any particular limb, that limb becomes colder than it was, and does not recover its natural heat, until by removal of the liga- ture, or the expansion of the branches, which go oft' from above the ligature, the usual quantity of blood is circulated through the limb. The intimate connexion which subsists between the life of man and the air he breathes, was entertained in the remotest ages. Some even supposed that, speaking of the creation, when Moses says, God breathed into man the breath of life," he alludes to this intimate union. It is thus with a new-born infant; the first thing we do is to infuse into his nostrils the breath of Hfe." For until the lungs are expanded, and the venal or pur- ple blood is changed into arterial or crimson, in that or- gan, the heart does not contract, nor the arteries vibrate; and, like a clock, that is not wound up, though sound in all its parts, they remain entirely at rest. In the clock, if but wind it up, the main-spring applying its pow- ers, all the wheels are immediately put into motion, and it marks its. hours and minutes; so, likewise, in the ani- the Human Machine, 53 mal macliine, the blood in the lungs having imbibed the vital principle from the air, the heart acquires its actions, the brain its energy, the nerves their sensibility, and the other subordinate springs of life presently resume their respective functions. No organ c*an be severely aft'ected without affecting the heart, and disturbing its functions, nor can the heart be in the smallest degree affected, without disturbing every function of the animal economy. But the heart is not only affected by what injures the body, but also by what ruffles the mind. Rage occa- sions frequent and forcible contractions; sorrow, slow and languid ones; and there are instances of violent pas- sions suspending the contractions of the heart altogether, and occasioning death. The heart is not only affected by whatever hurts the body or mind of the person, to whom it belongs, but also by what hurts the bodies or minds of others. But the extent of this kind of sympa- thy differs greatly in different persons. In some it em- braces children, friends, relations, countrymen, and in a certain degree, the whole human race; in others, it seems to be entirely confined within the limits of their own bo- dies, or at most, reaches with a blunted sensibility, no farther than to those whom they conceive to be their own offspring. While the blood is in circulation, vari- ous liquors are separated from it by a process called secretion, all these secretions being necessary for the health and preservation of animal life. When it is taken from the vein by the usual mode of bleeding, and left to itself, it soon congeals, and appears to be composed of two distinct parts, called crassamentum, or solid, and serum, or liquid. In a mass of healthy human blood, about one half is crassamentum, which hath the red co- lour to itself. The serum in a healthy state is almost colourless; at other times it is yellowish, or of a green- ish hue, while the top of the crassamentum has differ- ent degrees of firmness, and puts on different appear- ances, with respect to colour, according to the consti- tution and health of the subject, from which it is taken. A due proportion of the respective parts of the blood is necessary to perfect health. 54 Of the Structure of The Diaphragm or Midriff is a large, thin, broad muscle, thiit divides the breast from the belly. The uses of the midriff are, first, to assist in respira- tioji, for, in taking in the breath, it is pressed down- wards, and in expiration, it rises upwards into the cavity of the breast: secondly, to assist the necessary motions of the stomach, intestines, liver aiid spleen; and for assisting the expulsion of the faeces, the urine, the foetus in parturition, and of the secundines or after birth. It marks our passions by its irregular actions, as sighing, yawning, coughing, laughing. It is affected by spasms as in hiccough. The Abdomen or Belly lies between the breast and pelvis, which is formed by the juncture of the haunch bones. The belly contains many of the principal parts of the human body, as the stomach, the intestines, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, &c. — On its inside it is lined with a membrane called peritoneum, which is capable of a very great extension; and afterwards can contract itself to its ordinary size, as we see in preg- nancy, dropsy, corpulency, and repletion. The Stomach may be considered a dilatation of the oesophagus or gullet, as it is a continuation of the same tube. Its figure nearly resembles the pouch of . a bag- pipe, and has two orifices, the one above from the gul- let, through which it receives the crude aliment, the other below, whereby it conveys the partially digested food or chyme into the duodenum. Before the food enters the .euiiet, it must of necessity pass over the orifice of the wind pipe; consequently must be in very imminent danger ol failing upon the lungs, which would, if not entirely obstruct the breath, yet occasion violent coughing, and great inconveniencies. To obviate this evil, the all foreseeing contriver has placed a moveable lid, or hung a cartilaginous draw- bridge; which, when any of the smallest particle of food advances to enter the stomach, is pulled down, and shut the Human Machine* 55 close; but the very moment the morsel is swallowed, it is -et loose and stands open. By this two-fold artifice, the important passage is always barred and made sure against any noxious approaches; yet is always left free for the necessary accession of air, and commodious for the purpose of respiration. When the malster prepares his grain for the trans- mutation of the brew-house, he suffers it to lie several hours steeping in the cistern, before it is fit to be spread upon the floor, or dried on the kiln. The meat and drink likewise must remain a considerable time in the stomach before they are of a proper consistence and temperature, either for the tender coats, or the delicate operation of the bowels. For which purpose that great receiver is made strong to bear, capacious to hold, and so curiously contrived, as to lay a temporary embargo upon its con- tents. Here they are lodged in the very centre of warmth^, and concocted by the most kindly combination of heat and humidity. Here they are saturated with other fer- menting or diluting juices; and are kneaded, as it were, by the motion of the stomach, and compression of the neighbouring parts. So that every the minutest frag- ment is separated; the whole is reduced to a tenuity abundantly finer than the exactest grinding could effect; and all is worked up into the smoothest, most nicely mixed pulp imaginable. From hence it is dislodged by a gentle acting force, and passes by a gradual transition into the cavity of the intestines. The Intestines form one continued canal from the sto- mach to the anus, which is usually five or six times the length of the individual. It is curiously convoluted in the abdomen, and is extremely irritable. Although one entire tube, anatomists have divided it into the small and great intestines. The small intestines are called duo- denum, jejunum, and ilium; the larger are the caecum^ colon, and rectum. The Duodenum, so called, because it is generally twelve inches long in adults, is the widest and shortest of the small intestines. At a short distance from where 56 Of the Structure of it joins the stomach, it receives two ducts, the one from the liver, bringing the bile, and the other from the pan- creas, or sweet bread, bringing its liquor to complete the digestion of the food. The second gut is the jeju- num, so called, from its being usually found empty ^ its numerous lacteal vessels having absorbed the chyle, i The Ilium is the third and last of the* small intestines. The great length of the small guts is evidently for the convenience of a greater number of lacteals, that the chyle which misses their orifices in one place may not escape them in another. The Caecum, or blind gut, is a pouch, as it were, of the Colon, about three inches long, and called blind, from its being out of the direction of the passage of the food. The Colon is the greatest and widest of all the intes- tines, about eight or nine hands' breadth long, and by lying so contiguous to all the bowels, it communicates all the benefits of the injections thrown into it. When the Colon is affected, there is a sense of weight, tliough the pain is not very acute; whereas, in the small guts there is not any sense of weight, but an acute pain. Sometimes a pain in the colon attended with fever, the pain extending to the ribs, gives a suspicion of pleurisy, though the colon only is affected. — The colon is narrow- er on the right side than elsewhere, whence colic pains arise more frequently, and are more severe in this part. The excrements are long retained here, and often are much indurated before they pass farther on. The Rectum or straight gut, is about a hand's breadth and a half long. It begins where the last curvature of the colon ends, and is terminated at the fundament. At its termination it is surrounded by circular muscular fibres, called the sphincter ani, to retain the fasces. The intestines are not left to move at random in the cavity of the abdomen, but are artfully tied down by a membranous web, which prevents their circumvolu- tions from being entangled in each other, at the same time allowing a gende, but animated motion. That part of it which is connected with the small intestines is the Human Machine, 57 called mesentery, the other part fastened to the colon, mesocolon: — All the intestines have in their inner mem- brane an almost infinite number of very small glands, whose office it is to discharge into the intestines a li- quor for the attenuation of the chyle, for lubricating the intestines, and in the large guts to soften ihe fasces, that they may be evacuated vvhhout pain. The intestinal ca- val serves to complete the first digestion, strain off the chyle, and carry off the fasces. Had the intestine been straight and slwi^t, the food might have gone through them, without resigning a sufficient cjuantity of its nourishing particles. Therefore this grandest of all the vital ducts is artfully convolved, and greatly extended, to afford an opportunity of sifting more thoroughly whatever passes, and of detaining what- ever may serve its purposes. Though the alimentary substance can never mistake its way, yet it may, through some accidental impediment, attempt to return back* ward. Tn this case a valve intervenes, and renders what would be extremely pernicious almost impracticable. Upon a survey of the use of the stomach and intes- tines, we cannot avoid being struck with wonder at its apparent simplicity, answering so many salutary pur- poses. As soon as we take our food, it is received into a place in all points calculated to render it fit for yield- ing its nutritious contents. At first, the food taken into the stomach, retaining its peculiar properties, irritates the coat of that organ, and occasions a contraction of its two orifices. The food thus confined then undergoes a constant agitation by means of the abdominal muscles, and of the diaphragm, and by the motion of the fibres of the stomach itself. By these movements every part of the food is exposed to the action of a fluid secreted in the stomach, called the gastric juice, which gradually dis- solves and attenuates the food, and prepares it for its passage into and farther change in the intestines. The painful sensation of hunger, which is the irrita^ tion of the gastric juice on the coat of the stomach, or a sensation of a defective supply of chyle in the arterial system, being removed by the food, we soon feel a mild H 58 Of the Structure of and undescribable delight, first, from the Stimulus of the aliment, and secondly, from the distention of this, and the increased action of other parts. The aliment having remained during two or more hours in the stomach, is converted first into a greyish pulp, which is called chyle. This fluid passes out of the right orifice, the fibres of which relax to allow it to es- cape; while the grosser and less altered particles remain in the stomach till they acquire a sufficient fluidity to pass into the intestinal canal. As the digested food en- ters the duodenum, it stimulates the common duct of the gall-bladder, from which it receives a full supply of bile, and of saliva, secreted from the pancreas. The Chyle^ drawn oflf by all the secretory orifices, is carried along millions of the finest ducts, and lodged in several commodious cells. As a traveller, by taking pro- per refreshments on the road, is better qualified to pur- sue his journey; so the chyle, diverted to those little inns, is mixed with a thin, diluting, watery substance, which renders it more apt to flow, and more fit for use. Hence it is conveyed to one common receptacle^ and mounts through a perpendicular tube. When provision or ammunition is transmitted to an army, it generally passes under an escort of able troops. As this is the immediate support, and principal nourishment of the whole system, its conveyance is guarded with peculiar caution. The perpendicular vessel that conveys it, not having sufficient force of its own, is laid contiguous to the great artery, whose strong pulsation drives on the creeping fluid, enables it to overcome the steep ascent, and unload its precious treasure at the very door of the heart. Here it enters the trunk of a large vein, which is secured by a valve admirably constructed to prevent the refluent blood, in case it should offer to return; but opens a free, safe and easy avenue to introduce this milk, this manna of nature. The Blood, through every stage of its simple circuit, having sustained great expenses; being laid under con- the Human Machine. 59 tribution by every gland in the whole system; and hav- ing supplied myriads of the capillary vessels with mat- ter for insensible perspiration, must be very much tm- paverished; but is most opportunely recruited by this accession of chyle. Besides the uses above specified, appropriated to the stomach and intestines, there is another very consider- able one bestowed on them, particularly the former, by which impressions are diffused to almost every part of the machine, and from which all the sensible pans of the body receive very peculiar and extraordinary advan- tages. We mean that of conveying action to different parts, and feeling the effect from these sympathetically and instantaneously. For instance, a glass of wine or brandy, received into the stomach of a person exhaust- ed with fatigue and ready to faint, gives instantaneous spirits and fresh vigour. This must proceed from the manner it affects the nerves of the stomach, and their being sympathized with by the rest of the body, as there is not time for the liquor to be conveyed into the blood in the usual manner. The Stomach is not only more universally sympathiz- ed with than otherorgans, but also hath a greater number of distinct reciprocal sympathies with particular parts of the body than any other organ. A blow on the head oc- casions vomiting. A disordered stomach often excites a head-ach. The head-ach, which is apt to come after drinking too much wine, or other strong liquors, cer- tainly proceeds from the stomach, and sometimes is di- minished or entirely removed by a dram. A stomach disordered by indigestion, is often accompanied with flushings in the face, with palpitations at the heart, with difficult breathing, with dejection of spirits, with an un- common sensibility to any unexpected sight or noise, and with giddiness. The Omentum or Caul is a fine membrane like net- work, larded with fat. It is situated under the perito- neum, and immediately above the intestines, on the sur- 60 Of the Structure of face, resembling an apron tucked up. It serves to lubri- cate the intestines, that they may the easier perform their peristaltic motion, to cherish and defend them froth cold, and to assist in the formation of the bile. It serves also to temper the acrimony of the humours, and pro- babl}-, to give nourishment to the body, as all the other fat is supposed to do, when it is incapable oi' being nourished any other way. The Liver is situated immediately below the dia- phragm or midriff, on the right side. It reaches as far back almost as the spine or back bone, and rests upon the rip;ht kidney. It is the largest gland in the body, and is divided into two unequal parts, called lobes. Except for the vessels, which are very numerous, the liver would be very soft, and like a piece of congealed blood. The great use of the liver is to secrete the bile. It is the seat of various disorders, hiflammation, abcess, scir- rhus, &c. and in most of them, the countenance hath a pale colour, or a yellowish one, with a greenish cast. There is one circumstance not much attended to with respect to the situation of the liver, its large or right lobe occupies the whole half of the belly where it lies from the spine to the inside of the ribs, laying over the upper part of the kidneys. Now, this position of the liv- er is not often considered, for when any person hath a pain in the small of the back, they say very readily it is in the kidneys, but if it is a little higher up in their back, it is seldom, if ever, thought to be in the liver, though it most undoubtedly may, as its posterior edge lays on that part, on the right side. The Gall Bladder^ or receptacle of bile, is fixed to the under side of the liver. Punctual as a porter in his lodge, it waits, ready to pour its acrimonious, but salu- tary juices on the aliment, as it advances from the sto- mach; which dissolve its remaining viscidhies, support the peristaltic motion of the intestines, and greatly assist in completing the digestion. Such is the importance of the bile in our constitution, the Human Machine, 61 and the ill consequence of an error in it, that every aid is desirable, by which our knowledge of its nature can be promoted. When there is a defect of bile, it disposes the body to various diseases; as melancholy, indigestion, and obstruction of the viscera, &c. When there is a re- dundancy of bile, or it offends the stomach by its acri- mony, it causes chilliness, shivering, and great anxiety. It is certain, that in fevers, the bile is not only plenti- fully generated, but is also peccant in its quality, and whence, if not duly evacuated, it must be productive of many disagreeable symptoms; hence the importance of a soluble belly in febrile disorders. The Pancreas, or Sweet Bread, is a large gland, si- tuated near the stomach, serving to secrete a liquor like the saliva, which is discharged, by a short duct, into the duodenum. The Spleen is situated under the cartilages of the left short ribs. In its natural and sound state, it is about six or seven inches long, about three in breadth, and one in thickness. It often becomes scirrhous and consider- ably enlarged in persons who have been frequently at- tacked with intermittent fever. Its use is not precisely known. The Kidneys are two oval bodies, situated in the loins, contiguous to the two last short ribs; the right under the liver, and the left under the spleen. They separate the urine from the blood. The Ureters are tubes about the size of goose quills, and about a foot long; they arise from the kidneys, and enter the bladder near its neck. They form to them- selves, as it were, valves, so that, upon the contraction of the bladder, the urine is ejected through the urethra, its proper passage. The Bladder is a membranous and fleshy sack or bag, capable of contraction and dilatation, situated in the 62 Of the Structure of lower part of the belly. Around its neck (which is longer in men than in women) there goes a small sphincter mus- cle, whose office it is to contract the orifice of the blad- der, that the urine may not be involuntarily discharged. The use of the bladder is to receive the urine, which is perpetually secreted into it from the kidneys. The Uterus or JFo?nb, is situated between the urinary bladder and the Rectum, or straight gut. It is placed, by Divine wisdom, in a situation of great security, call- ed the pelvis or bason, being guarded on all sides by the strong bones that form the basis of the trunk. In figure it very much resembles a pear, its broadest extremity, which is called its bottom, is uppermost, and its small part, the neck, is downwards. The womb, when im- pregnated, hath a very small cavity, but becomes larger as pregnancy advances, and in the time of delivery, has its mouth wonderfully dilated, so as to give passage to the child. About the age of puberty, the blood-vessels of the uterus become distended, and secrete monthly a fluid which is called menses, catamenia, and vulgarly, flow- ers, courses. The Vagina^ or neck of the womb, extends from the mouth of the uterus to the pudendum or external parts. In women it enlarges, and like the uterus, in the time of birth dilates very much. Just within the vagina is the orifice of the urethra, which is shorter, wider, and straighter than in men. Besides the womb and vagina, there are two other contrivances which are supposed to perform particular functions, in the propagation and formation of our spe- cies, the one called ovaria, from their retaining small round substances of the nature of eggs, the other fallo- pian tubes, from their discoverer Fallopius. The Fallopian Tubes are situated on the right and left sides of the womb. They rise from its bottom by a nar- row beginning, and dilate in the form of a trumpet to tlie Human Machine, 63 their extremities at the ovaria. Their cavity, where they open into the womb, will scarcely admit* of a hog's bris- tle; but at its widest part, it will take in the end of one's little finger. The tubes are about four or five fingers' breadth long. They serve to convey from the ovaries the rudiments of the foetus to the womb, where they are further deve- loped and perfected. The Ovaria^ or Ovaries^ are two small bodies, situa- ted on each side of the fundus uteri, or bottom of the womb, behind the fallopian tubes. At the age of puber- ty they are full and plump, and continue so until the menses are about to depart. They contain from ten to twenty or more pellucid eggs, which are supposed to contain the primordia of the foetus. The Testes, or Testicles^ are two oval glandular bo- dies, seated in the scrotum, which serve to secrete the semen from the blood. The scrotum, or external cover- ing, is made up of the scarf skin, true skin, and imme- diately under the latter, is a thick cellular texture closely adhering to it. It is likewise composed of many fleshy, or nmscular fibres, by means of which the scrotum is contracted, and is reckoned a sign of health. The Prostate Gland is situated at the neck of the bladder, and is about the bigness of a walnut. By some it is supposed to secrete a fluid merely to lubricate the urethra, and by others, it is deemed subservient to the process of generation. The Urethra is a canal or pipe of the thickness of a goose quill, and about twelve or thirteen inches long, which begins at the neck of the bladder, and terminates at the end of the penis. Its inner membrane furnishes a mucilaginous liquor, serving to defend it against the acrimony of the urine. The Penis is composed of two spongious bodies, part 64 Of the Structure of of the urethra, the glands or nut at its extremity, and its integuments. The spongious bodies take their name from being porous like sponge, and capable of being dis- tended and enlarged by the blood penetrating their sub- stance, as in cases of erection. The integuments of the penis make a hood to the glands or nut of the yard, call- ed prepuce or foreskin. The small ligament, by which it is tied to the under side of the nut, is called frasnum. The use of the prepuce, or foreskin, is to keep the nut soft and moist, and to preserve its sensibility. The am- putation of it constitutes circumcision, a practice recom- mended by Moses to the Jews. We shall now conclude the anatomical part of the hu- man body, and trust enough has been said, concise as it is, to give to the uninformed readers just conceptions of the most important parts of the human machine, and its natural action. We see the greatest multiplicity of parts, yet the most perfect harmony subsists between them all. No one hinders, but each assists the operation of another, and all conspire to the benefit and preservation of the whole. Most judiciously has the great apostle touched this subject; and most happily applied it to illustrate the reasonableness, and enforce the practice, both of personal and ^ocia/ duties, of private content, and public concord. The hody^ he observes, is not one member^ but many^ to each of which some peculiar and needful office is as- signed; so that the foot^ though placed in the lowest or- der, and destined to serve on the very ground, has no reason to reckon itself a worthless outcast; or to say. Because lam not the head I am not of the body. Neither has the head^ in its exalted station, and amidst its ho- nourable functions, any cause to despise the inferior limbs; or to say, with contempt and self-sufficiency, / have no need of you, — If there were no feet, what would become of the locomotive faculty? or how could the body convey itself from one place to another? If there were no hands, \yhat should we do for the instruments the Human Machine, 65 of action? Or how could the animal frame be defended and accommodaled? Nay, the parts, which seem to be less honourable^ are necessary. Even those which form the sediments, or throw off the dregs, are of importance to Hfe and its comforts. Should those be obstructed in their action, the most raging torment ensues; should the obstruction continue, death is the inevitable conse- quence. — By this wise adjustment there is no schism in the body^ no separate or interfering ends are pursued by the members, but the safety and support of each are the one undivided care of all. Thus should it be among men, and among Christians. There is both a subordination of persons, and a concate- nation of interests; for which reason, a general agree- ment should take place, and a mutual subserviency to each other's welfare. — The meanest have no cause to be dissatisfied with their condition. To acquiesce in the unerring disposal of Providence, and cheerfully to con- tribute their share to the common good, is alike the du- ty of all. The highest should condescend to men of low estate; and maintain a regard to the well-being of the poorest y as that which is intimately connected with their own. In a word, each should feel a tender concern for all; rejoicing in their happiness, and studying to estab- lish it; sympathizing with their miseries, and endeavour- ing to heal them. Wise, — wonderfully wise, and eminently gracious, is the regulation both of spontaneous and involuntary mo- tion. Were this regulation reversed, what deplorable incpnveniencies would take place, nay, what unavoida- ble ruin must ensue! Deplorable inconveniencies; if the discharges of the bowels, or evacuations of the bladder, •^^re quite independent of our leave. Unavoidable ruin; if the action of the heart required the co-operation of our thoughts, or the business of respiration waited for the concurrence of our will. The will, in some cases, has not so much as a single vote. In others, she determines and commands like an ab- solute sovereign; nor is there a monarch upon earth so punctually obeyed, as this queen of the human system- 66 Of the Structure of If she but intimate her pleasure, the spirits run, they fly to execute her orders; to stretch the arm, or close the hand; to farrow the brow with frowns, or dimple the check w ith smiles. How easily as well as punctually^ are these orders carried into execution! To turn the screw, or work the lever, is laborious and wearisome. But we move the vertebrae, with all their apparent chambers; \ve advance the leg, with the whole incumbent body; we rise from our seat; we spring from the ground; and, though much force is exerted, though a very consider- able weight is raised, we meet with no difficulty, we complain of no fatigue. That all this should be effected without any toil, and by a bare act of the will, is very surprising. But, that these motions should be made, renewed, continued, even while we remain entirely ignorant of the manner in which they are performed, is beyond measure astonish- ing. Who can play even a single tune upon the piano, without learning the dift'erence of the keys, or studying the rudiments of music? Impossible! Yet the mind of man touches every string of the human machine with the most masterly skill, though she knows nothing at all concerning the nature of her implements, or the process of her operations. We walk, we run, we leap, we throw ourselves into a variety of postures, and perform a mul- titude of motions, yet are utterly unable to say which nerve should be active; what muscles should swell, or what tendons approximate. Put a German flute into the hand even of a sen- sible person; without a master to instruct him, he is at a loss to make the instrument speak; much less is he able to sink and soften the sound, to exalt and extencyt just as he pleases. Yet we are self-taught in the method of formings regulating, and varying the voice. Naturally, and with unpremeditated fluency, we give it the lan- guishing cadence of sorrow, or the sprightly airs of joy; the low faltering accents of fear, or the elated tone, and rapid sallies of anger. We can never sufl&ciently admire this multiplicity of animated organs; their finished form and their faultless order. Yet I must confess myself struck with greater admiration at the power, the truly the Human Machine, 67 mysterious power and sway which the soul exercises over them. Ten thousand reins are put into her hand; she is not acquainted with their office, their use, or their name; she has not learned so much as to distinguish one from another, nevertheless she manages all, con- ducts all, without the least perplexity, or the least irre- gularity; rather with a promptitude, a consistency, and a speed, which nothing else can equal! Since health de- pends upon such a numerous assemblage of moving organs; since a single secretion stopped, may destroy the salutary state of the fluids, or a single wheel clog- ged may put an end to the vital motion of the so- lids; with what holy fear should we pass the time of our sojourning here below! trusting, for continual preserva- tion, not merely to our own care, but to that omnipotent hand, which formed the admirable machine: that the same hand which formed it, may superintend its agency, and support its being. When we consider the extensive contrivance, and de- licate mechanism, — what plans of geometry have been laid; what operations of chemistry are performed; in a word, what miracles of art and elegance are executed, in order to furnish us with the necessary recruits, and the several delights of life; — is there not abundant rea- son to cry out with the inspired writer, ^' How dear are thy counsels unto me^ 0 God! Thy counsels of creating wisdom! thou hast not been sparing, but even lavish of thy indulgent designs. Thou hast omitted no expedient which might establish my ease, enlarge my comforts, and promote, yea complete, my bodily happiness; and is not this a most endearing obligation to glorify the blessed God with oun bodies^ as well as with our spirits? The mechanism of our body; the connection and sub- serviency of all its parts to a common purpose; the ex- quisite contrivance of its organs, consisting of such va- rious minute vessels, interwoven with wonderful art, have led Anatomists, in all ages, to acknowledge an in- finite, wise and powerful maker. Among the most pre- cious remains of antiquity, are those commentaries of 68 Of the Structure of Galen, written on the uses of the several parts of the human body, as hymns, and offerings of praise, to the great Creator. Is it, indeed, otherwise conceivable how such consist- ency and harmony could have taken place in the differ- ent parts of our wonderful frame? How they could have been so exactly fitted to each other, and to the exterior objects which have an evident relation to them, and the system they compose? Could the bones, which in all amount to four hundred, and the muscles, which are still more, and are each so well disposed for motion, be adjusted without a superior knowledge in mechanics? The eye, so admirably adapted to light, and appropri- ated to vision, was it formed without a knowledge of optics? or the ear without the science of sounds? Kven our inclinations and passions, those sources of so much apparent ill, are, by the Deity, providentially rendered the means of our preservation, both as individuals and a race; and the selfish and social affections, like centripe- tal and centrifugal forces, conduct us with proper force, to the end intended by our maker to be produced by them. Yet the love of life and all its enjoyments, the fear of death and all its dreadful harbingers, and the so- cial affections and all their endearments, would not have been sufficient security for our carrying on the vital motions with that constancy and uniformity necessary to the preservation of life, if thus engaged these motions had depended upon our will and choice. Reason would have deliberated concerning them with too much slow- ness, and volition would have executed them often with a dangerous and fatal caprice. For, if the heart had been subject to the souFs authority, as much as the voluntary muscles are; if its motions could have been suspended or stopped with the same facility, death would then have cost us no painful pang; and, whenever the body was tortured with disease, and the mind in anguish from grief or disappointment, a remedy so easily applied might have been too frequently resorted to, and yet more unfortunate beings might have rushed uncalled into the presence of Him who stationed us for the wisest reasons the Human Machine* 69 here on earth. The preservation of life, therefore, great- ly depends on our vital motions being entirely subject to the wise government of the Author of our lives, who charges Himself with the immediate care of them, and of us. All this, when attentively considered, must affect us with a sense of God's goodness; who, respecting the imbecility of man's nature, hath been pleased, by appe- tites and passions, to excite him to acts of self-preser- vation; where the violence of these might have been hurtful, no less than the slowness and instability of rea- son, hath taken our safety under his more immediate di- rection. To attribute contrivances like these, and even understanding itself, to unintelligent causes, rather than to the all wise Parent of Nature, seems an incom- prehensible perversion of reason and philosophy. That mind must be strongly prepossessed, and bewildered with false science, which rather seeks for the cause of these involuntary motions in dead matter, organization, chance, necessity, something that, without knowledge or power, acts wisely and powerfully, than in the great Fountain of power ^ wisdom and animation. If chance could be supposed to produce a regular de- terminate action, yet it is beyond the highest degree of credulity, to suppose it could continue this regularity for any time. But, we find it remains through life, incle- pendent of our will; and the same incessant vital actions have been carried on from the commencement of the world. It is thus that the sun's influence upon the earth hath ever been regular. The production of trees, plants, and herbs, hath ever been uniform. Every seed pro- duces now the same fruit it ever did. — Every species of animal life is still the same. Could chance continue this regular arrangement'? — Could any thing continue it, but the hand of an Omnipotent Creator? The human body is exalted to a most intimate and personal union with the eternal Son of God. He who decorated the heaven with stars, and crowned the stars with lustre; He vouchsafed to be made flesh, and was found in fashion as a man, — Nay, this is even now the apparel of that divine and adorable per so. v. He is 70 Of the Structure of clothed with our nature; he wears our very limbs; and appears in the dress of humanity, even at the right hand of God, and at the head of all the heavenly hosts. What think you of another privilege mentioned by the Apostle? Your bodies are the temple of the Holy Ghost." Not your souls only, but your very bodies, are the shrine in which the high and holy one that in- habiteth eternity ^ condescends to dwell. He, who sitteth between the cherubim and walketh in the circuit of the skies, is pleased to sanctify these earthly tenements for his own habitation. And is not this a much grander em- bellishment, than all their matchless contrivance, and masterly workmanship? Nor must I omit the dignity — the transcendant dig- nity, which is reserved for these systems of flesh at the resurrection of the just. They will then be refined and improved into the most perfect state, and the most beau- teous form; surpassing whatever is resplendent and ami- able in the most ornamental appearances of material na- ture. They will be purer than the unspotted firmament; brighter than the lustre of the stars; and, w^hich exceeds all parallel, which comprehends all perfection, they will made like unto Christ's glorious body; like that incom- parably glorious body which the blessed Jesus wears, in his celestial kingdom, and on his triumphant throne. When we add all these magnificent prerogatives^ which are revealed in scripture, to all those inimitable niceties which are displayed by anatomists, what thank- fulness, what admiration can equal such a profusion of favours? Say, why was man so eminently rais'd Amid the vast creation, why ordain'd Through life and death to dart his piercing eye, With thoughts beyond the limit of his frame; But that the Omnipotent might send him forth, In sight of mortal and immortal powers, As on a boundless theatre, to run the Human Machine, 7 1 The great career of justice; to exalt His generous aim to all diviner deeds; To chace each partial purpose from his breast, And, through the tossing tide of chance and pain, To hold his course unfaultering, while the voice Of Truth and Virtue up the steep ascent Of nature, call him to his high reward, The applauding smile of Heaven? AKENSIDt. ON HYGIEINE; OR, THE ART OF PRESERVING HEALTH, Reason's wliole pleasure, all the joys of sense, Lie in three words — Health, Peace, and Competence. But Health, consists of temperance alone. And Peace, O Virtue, Peace is all thy own. Pope. In the preceding chapter I have treated of the struc- ture of the Human Body; and even from the cursory analysis there exhibited, the reader must have seen with what propriety it has been called "God's Master Piece." Although so numerous in its parts, so complicate in its arrangement, and so passing delicate as to its mate- rials; yet, I hope, we shall show that by due attention to what are termed the Non-Naturals, by which are meant air, food, exercise, sleep, evacuations and pas- sions, we shall go far to preserve this fabric in good health from the cradle to the grave. Nay, so wonderful is the body in its resources, I mean its powers of re- novation; and so sovereign are the virtues of the Non- Naturals, that thousands are the instances of persons On Hygieine^ b^c. 73 who after having their health apparently ruined by an aduse of them, have on returning to a wise and tempe- rate use, entirely recovered their health, and attained to a most active and happy old age. Hence the reason why mankind are so often sick, is because they so often err in the use of these the appointed preservatives of life and health. To inculcate this truth more universally, I have in- troduced these disquisitions on the art of preserving health, and to render them more acceptable to my read- ers have enlivened them with appropriate illustrations, hoping thereby to make impressions as lasting as they are important. OF AIR. Thou cheerful g-iiardian of the ruling year, Whelhei* thou wanton'st on the Western gale. Or shak'st the rigid pinions of the North, DifFiisest life and vigour through the tracts Of air, thro' earth and ocean's deep domain. Without thy cheerful active energy No rapture swells the breast, no poet sings. No more the Maids of Helicon delight. Come then with me, O Goddess heavenly gay! Begin the song; and let it sweetly flow. And let it sweetly teach thy wholesome laws; How best the fickle fabric to support **0f mortal man; in healthy body how ^' A healthful mind the longest to maintain." Armstrong. As soon as an infant enters the world, the air rushes into its lungs, the circulation of the blood through that organ commences, and its life from that moment de- pends " on the breath that is in its nostrils,^' which is incessantly taken in and thrown out of the lungs. While the child remained in the womb, it required no external K 74 On Hygieme^ or the art air, because it existed in the blood which was received from its mother through the umbilical cord, or navel string. But as soon as the infant is born, the air is in- haled and the circulation is determined through the lungs, which ever after continues in that way — and hence the necessity of breathing, which can never cease but with life. Since then air is the main instrument of vitality, both to man and all creatures, it certainly must be a most pleasing and profitable study to acquire correct ideas of this great element. By the unlettered part of mankind, the vast atmo- sphere which surrounds our globe, to the depth of two and thirty miles, is supposed to be one simple, colour- less, invisible mass, without any essential difference of qualities, and without weight. But it is a gross mistake; for instead of being a simple uniform element, it is com- posed of several parts, some of which are widely difter- ent from each other. We have, too, numberless proofs of its weight; like other bodies it falls to the earth, and is more dense as it approaches its centre. Every one knows that air on the tops of high mountains is much thinner than it is below in the valleys. But the weight of air is susceptible of demonstration by positive expe- riment. Having exhausted the air out of a thin glass flask, and suspended it at one end of a balance, which being nicely counterpoised by weights in the other scale; this done, admit the air into the flask, into which it will rush with a noise, and though the flask was balanced before, it will now, upon admission of the air, preponderate. If the flask holds a quart, it will be found that the weight of the air it now contains, is about seventeen grains above what it was when empty, so that a quart of air weighs about seventeen grains. We will mention another experiment, which is easily put into practice. Some water being poured into a sau- cer, burn a bit of paper in a tea-cup, which by rarifying, will exhaust and make a vacuum in the cup. Then while the paper is yet burning, turn it hastily down, of Preserving Health. 75 paper and all, into the saucer, and the air without will press the water up from the saucer into the cup. The water will stand within the cup in a column; and if the cup were thirty-two feet high, and the air within it per- fectly exhausted, the water would rise to that height in it, as we have said before. This satisfactorily accounts for the rising of water in pumps, or the standing of the quicksilver in the barometer. If further proof is necessary to show the weight of that great ocean of air, which constantly surrounds us, let a man take a thick glass tube, such as is put over lamps, and place it upright on a table that has a small hole in it for an air pump. Then let him place his hand closely over the top of the tube, while a friend with the pump extracts the air, and he shall find that as the air on the inside is removed, the air on the outside will press his hand down with much violence. Nor will he be surprised at this pressure of the air, when he comes to learn, that a column or pillar of air of only one inch diameter, and thirty-two miles high, (which is the depth of the atmosphere from its top above the clouds to the ground), weighs about fourteen pounds. If the hand of the person Avhich covers the top of the tube, measure ten inches square, the pressure on it will be about one hundred and forty pounds — sufficient in all conscience to crush every bone in the hand. By the same token, a square foot of such a column of air would weigh near two thousand pounds, and as a common sized man mea- sures about fourteen square feet, it is a fact, as curious as it is awful, that every such person bears constantly on his body a weight of fourteen tons, or twenty-eight thousand pounds of air. Some persons may doubt this, from the conclusion that such a weight would crush every man to pieces. So it would, if it were to press solely on any particular part. But this conclusion in- stantly flills to the ground, when it is recollected, that this pressure of the air is uniform and equal all around him, the air pressing as strongly from below as from above; from one side as from another; thus causing the various pressures most exactly and admirably to coun- 76 On Hygieiney or the art terpoise each other; of this w e see a wonderf ul instance in the case of fibhes in the ocean. One of these ani- mals at a great depth under water, would be crushed to atoms, if all that heavy element pressed only on his back. But the God who made him has so kindly attended to his safety, as to cause the water that sur- rounds him from below to press upwards as strongly as that from above to press downwards. There is another reason why our bodies are not so sensible of the tremendous weight of air, which thirty two miles deep presses upon us; it is simply this, all bodies are full of air; and the air within pressing against that without, preserves even the most delicate bodies uninjured. A bladder, or even a bag of oiled paper, if filled with wa- ter, remains perfectly unhurt, though a hundred fathoms below the surface of the sea; because the water within furnishes a full resistance to the water without. But take away this resistance from within, and you shall find that the slightt^st pressure will bring the two sides together. According to the late discoveries in Chemistry, the atmosphere consists of three different species of air — namely, pure, respirable, or dephlogisticated air; azotic, or phlogisticated air; and fixed, or carbonic acid air. The proportion of the first, namely, pure or v ital air, consists according to the French Chemists, who have given it the name of Oxygen^ of 27 or 28 in the hun- dred parts; the second, the Azote of the French, of 72 or 73 in the hundred; and the third, namely, the Carbo- nic acid air, of about one part only in the hundred. Oxygen is much better adapted to the respiration of animals than common atmospheric air. If two animals be enclosed in vessels, one of which contains pure Oxy- gen, and the other common atmospheric air, in propor- tions equal to the size of the animals, the former in the Oxygen will be found to live six or seven times as long as the latter in common air. It is properly this Oxygen which we inspire, and which is the grand support of ani- mal life. Persons apparently dead, or in a state of suffo- cation, have been instantly restored to life, by its infiu- of Preserving Health. 77 encc, and from the corresponding testimony of several respectable physicians, it appears to have been employed with advantage in many obstinate 'diseases. The cele> brated Ingenhouz, therefore, gave it the name of vital air. It promotes combustion in a very high degree. A candle will burn in it from six to seven times longer than in common air, with a much greater degree of heat, and a more briUiant flame. Bodies in a glowing state are immediately inflamed, when put into Oxygen gas; and even metals, which are not very fusible, are melted in it with the greatest facility. Azote^ by others called phlogisticated, mephitic, cor- rupted, or suflfocative air, is absolutely unrespirable, and not miscible with water. It arises from the change which atmospherical air undergoes in every process of com- bustion, putrefaction and respiration, whether produced by nature or art. Azote enters into no combination with water, but may be rendered less hurtful by shaking it with that fluid. This accounts in some measure for the salub ity of the sea-air. It greatly promotes the growth of plants, and readily accumulates in apartments filled wiih peo- ple, or containing articles fresh painted with oil colours, or in which strongly fragrant flowers are kept without having any accession of fresh air. We should be ex- tremely cautious in entering such places, as diseases of the breast and lungs are too frequently the consequence of neglect, or ignorance. The Carbonic acid air, ov fixed air, is miscible with water, but in its pure state is equally unrespirable as the Azote. It derives its origin, parily from the vinous fer- mentation of vegetables and some animal substances, and partly from the mild alkaline salts and earths com- bined with acid. Much of this air abounds in mines, where it frequently distresses the workmen by its suftb- cating eflect. It is also observed in most mineral waters, where a stratum of it sometimes floats upon the surface of the well. These waters, as well as fermented liquors 78 On Hygieiney or the art which contain a considerable portion of fixed air, re- ceive from it that well known pungency so agreeable to the palate. Hence flat and spoiled beer or wine, may be corrected and restored to its former briskness, by the addition of fixed air evolved from chalk and vitriolic acid; or by mixing it with new beer, or wine in a statq, of fermentation. As this species of air quickly extinguishes fire, ani- mals cannot live in it. These three aerial bodies, though blended together, arrange themselves, in some degree, according to their specific gravities; that is, the proportion of azotic air^ v/hich is the lighter body of the three, will be found most in the upper part, the oxygen air in the middle, ^ and the fixed air will be found most in the lower part of the apartment. This occasions a circulation in the air, the rarified air will ascend, the fixed air sink, and the colder and purer air rush into the apartment through every crevice. To render the circulation of the air plain to sense, if the air of a room be heated by a fire, whilst the air in the next room is cold, and the door between opened, the hot air of one room being rarified, will pass through the upper part of the opening of the door into the cold room; and on the contrary, the cold air of the other room being heavier, will pass into the former through the lower part of the opening. This may be proved, by applying a candle at the upper and lower openings between the two rooms. The direction of the flame of the candle will point out the contrary currents of air. It is for this reason, that when a fire is light- ed in a chimney, a strong current of air enters the room, which may be felt by applying the hand near the key- hole, or other small openings, if the door and windows be shut. A fire is said to purify a room; but this it does partly by drying the daiiipness of the room, and chiefly by promoting the circulation of the air. The fire does not perform such service by purifying the bad air, but by removing it, and substituting that which is fresh and wholesome. Hence it appears that those persons are of Preserving Health. mistaken, who are over anxious in keeping out the air from entering the apartments of convalescent persons, by accurately stopping, by list, linings and sQTtd 6ags^ all the smallest openings that admit fresh air. Unless the air were constantly renewed, persons would be exposed to the most fatal accidents in large assem- blies, or crowded rooms*. A rout was lately given at a celebrated Bathing-place, or springs. The room was small and the company very numerous. They had not been long seated at the card- tables, before a young gentleman and lady, both in deli- cate health, fell into a swoon. The doors and windows were immediately thrown open, to afford fresh air, which quickly dissipated the alarm, by reviving the young in- valids. A physician who was present telling one of his medical companions how severely he himself had suffer- ed from the air of that vile oven, and that he had made up his mind to write a bitter philippic against Routs, was archly answered by his friend, " let them alone Doc- tor, how otherwise should twenty-six physicians of us subsist in this place?'' As a further illustration of the above reasoning, take a room thirty feet by twenty-five, and thirty feet high; capable of containing one hundred persons. Now since each person consumes about five cubic feet of air in an hour, that is, deprives such a quantity of air of its oxygen, or vital principle, it would follow, that, as such a room could contain only twenty-two thousand five hundred cubic feet of air, unless the air was constantly renewed, it would be rendered completely mephitic or noxious in about /oz/r hours and a half, and it is proba- ble that the greater part of the company would be se- riously incommoded, or even perish long before that time. The following affecting narrative is a melancholy con«^ firmation of this fact. In the summer of 1756, the Bri- tish setdement of Calcutta in India, was attacked by the natives under the Viceroy Rajah Doulah, a young man of the most violent passions, and without the leasj sense of honour and humanity. After a most obstinate 80 0)1 Hygieine^ or the art resistance, the little garrison surrendered themselves prisoners of war, on a solemn promise from the Rajah of the most honourable treatment. But no sooner had the monster got them in his power, than utterly regard- less of what was due to honour, to humanity, and to a brave enemy, he barbarously drove them all into a dark shallow vault under ground, called the black hole^ only eighteen feet square. The number of the unfortunate men thus cruelly immured, was one hun- dred and forty-six, with their gallant commander, Colonel Holwcll, the historian of the following tragedy. The humane reader may form some idea of one hun- dred and forty- six poor fellow^s, many of them badly wounded and bleeding, and all worn out with the fa- tigue, and covered with the dust and sweat of a hard day's fighting, crammed and crowded together on a hot sultry evening, into a small dirty hole, eighteen feet square, with only two little windows, and those ob- structed by strong iron bars. A profuse siveat quickly broke out on every indivi- dual, attended with an insatiable thirsty which became the more intolerable, as the body w-as drained of its moisture. It was in vain that they stripped off their clothes, or fanned themselves with their hats. A difficulty in breathing was next observed, and every one panted for breath. Colonel Holwell, who was placed at one of the windows, called to the sergeant of the guard, and after striving to excite his compassion by drawing a pathetic picture of their suflvrings, promised him a thousand rupees in the morning, provided he could find means to remove some of his people into another place of confinement. The sergeant, allured by the promise of so mighty a reward, assured him he would use his utmost endeavours, and retired for that purpose. What must have been the impatience at this time of these unibrtunate objects? In a few moments the sergeant returned, but in the chilling language of disappointment, told them that the viceroy was asleep, and no man durst disturb his repose! of Preserving Health, 81 The despair of the prisoners now became outrageous. They endeavoured to force open the door, that they might rush on the swords of the monsters, by whom they were surrounded, and who derided their sufferings; but all their efforts proved ineffectual. Tiiey then used execrations and abuse to provoke the guard to fire upon them. The captain of the guard was at length moved to compassion. He ordered his soldiers to bring some skins containing water ^ which by enraging the appetite, only served to increase the general agitation. There was no other way of conveying it through the windows, but by hats; and this mode proved ineffectual, from the eager- ness of the wretched prisoners, who struggled for it in fits of delirium— The cry of water! water! issued from every mouth. The consequence of this eagerness was, that very little fell to the lot even of those who stood nearest the window; and the most fortunate, instead of finding their thirst assuaged, grew more impatient. The confusion soon became general and horrid; all was clamour and contest; those who were at a distance, endeavoured to force their passage to the window, and the weak were pressed down to the ground, never to rise again. Colonel Holwell observing now his dearest friends in the agonies of death, or dead, and inhumanly trampled on by the living, finding himself wx^dged up so closely as to be deprived of all motion, begged, as the last mark of their regard, that they would for one moment remove the pressure,. and allow him to retire from the window, and die in quiet. Even in such dreadful circumstances, which might be supposed to have levelled all distinction, the poor delirious wretches manifested a respect to his rank and character; they immediately gave way, and he forced his passage into the centre of the place, which was less crowded, because, by this time, about one third of the number had perished, while the rest still pressed to both windows. He retired to a platform at the fiuther end of the room, and lying down upon some of his dead 82 On Hygieine, or the art friends, recommended his soul to the mercy of its Creator. Here his thirst grew insupportable; his difficulty in breathing increased; and he was seized with a strong palpiiaii(jn at the heart. These violent symptoms, which he could not bear, urged him to make another effort: he forced his way back to the window; and cried aloud, " Water! For God's sake^ a little -water T"^ He luid been supposed already dead by his wretched companions, but finding him still alive, they exhibited another extraordinary proof of regard to his person: •* Give him water," they cried; nor would one of them attempt to touch it, until he had drank. He now breathed more freely, and the palpitation ceased; but finding him- self still more thirsty after drinking, he abstained from water, and moistened his mouth, from time to time, by sucking the perspiration from his shirt sleeves, which tasted soft, pleasant, and refreshing. The miserable prisoners now began to perceive that it was axr^ and not water that they wanted. They dropt fast on all sides, and a strong steam arose from the bo- dies of the living and the dead, as pungent and volatile as hartshorn. Colonel Hoi well being weary of life, retired once more to the platform, and stretched himself by the Rev. Mr. Bellamy, who, together with his son, a young lieutenant, lay dead, locked in each other's arms. In this situation he was soon deprived of sense, and seemed to all appearance dead, when he was removed by his surviving friends to one of the windows, where the fresh air brought him back to life. The Rajah being at last informed that the greater part of the prisoners were suffocated^ enquired if the Chief were alive, and being answered in the affirmative, sent an order for their release, when no more than twenty three survived^ of one hundred and forty-six, who entered into this prison. How many melancholy instances of a similar kind have occurred on board of vessels engaged in that most abominable and diabolical traffic, the slave trade. of Preserving Health. 83 My soul is sick with every day's report Of wrong and outrage with which earth is filled: There is no yielding flesh in man's hard heart, It does not feel for man. The nat'ral bond Of brotherhood is sever'd, as the flax That falls asunder at the touch of fire. He finds his fellow guilty of a skin Not coloured like his own; and having power To enforce the wrong, for such a worthy cause^ Dooms and devotes him as a lawful prey. Thus man devotes his brother; And, worse than all, and most to be deplored, As human nature's broadest, foulest blot. Chains him, and tasks him, and exacts his sweat With stripes, that mercy with a bleeding heart Weeps when she sees inflicted on a beast. Then what is man? and what man seeing this, And having human feelings, does not blush And hang his head, to think himself a man? I would not have a slave to till my ground. To carry me, to fan me while I sleep. And tremble when I wake, for all the wealth That sinews bought and sold have ever earned. Cow PER. To mention no other fact, a strong proof of the neces- sity of the frequent renewal of air may be found in the records of the Dublin lying-in hospital. In this hospital two thousand nine hundred and forty- four infants out of seven thousand six hundred and fifty, died in the year 1782, within the first fortnight after their birth, wliich is nearly every third child! They al- 84 On Hygieine, or the art most all died in convulsions, or what the nurses call nine days Jits, because they came on nine days after their birth. Many of these children foamed at their mouths, their thumbs were drawn into the palms of their hands, the jaws were locked, the face was swelled, and looked blue, as though they were choked. This last circum- stance led Dr. Clark to conclude that the rooms were too close and crowded. That benevolent physician con- trived therefore air- pipes, by which the rooms were completely ventilated. The consequence was, a prodi- gious decrease in the mortality. It is almost unnecessa- ry to mention the frequent and sudden deaths that have taken place from entering deep wells, cellars, and other confined places. A baker of Chartres, going down into a deep cellar with his son, carrying a candle, on getting near the foot of the stairs, fell dead. Instantly the candle went out, and the son crying for help, fell down also. His brother running down after him, presently called out for help, and was heard no more. His mother followed next, and then a maid, both of whom perished. An alarm being excited, the house was presently filled with the neigh- bours, four of whom, one after the other, went down, and all died. The physicians ordered large quantities of fresh water to be thrown into the cellar. A dog and a lighted candle were then let down, without injury to either, and the dead bodies in the cellar were taken out. Three poor men at Denton, Maryland, having nearly completed a deep w^ell, quitted their work to go home to keep the Holy-days. However, before they left the well, they covered the mouth of it closely. Carbonic acid gas settled at the bottom of it. — After some time the unlucky well diggers returned, and opening the well, very unsuspiciously let themselves down to their work. Two out of the three perished at the bottom — the other saved himself only by not going down. Lime-kilns throwing off large quantities of fixed air, are extremely dangerous. of Preserving Health, 85 A couple of disorderly young women after rambling a greater part of the night, crept, early in the morning, into a little hovel, contiguous to a lime-kiln^ and fell asleep. The kiln being in high blast, diffused a portion of vapour through the crevices into the hovel, but the poor wretches were too sound asleep to be awaked. After some hours, the man who had the care of the kiln, coming to look after his work, finding these wo- men asleep endeavoured to awake them, but in vain! They were taken immediately to the hospital. The one first ccMiveyed recovered, but the other perished. There is another species of mephitic air, which bums with a bright flame, and, if mixed with common air, instantly catches fire and explodes; hence it has received the name of inflammable air." Mines and coal-pits are frequently infested with this gas, which being ten times lighter than common air, ascends to the upper region of the mine; and is called Fire-damp. To discharge this, the miners are in the habit of crawling on their hands and feet, and with a ta- per affixed to a long stick, set fire to it, which is suc- ceeded by a terrible, and sometimes fatal explosion. — This air is often generated in the stomach and bowels of animals both living and dead. A lighted candle held near, has often caused it to take fire. Bartholine relates the case of a person, who having drank a large quantity of brandy for a wager, died, after an eruption of a flame of fire had first issued from his mouth. The inflammable xvoman of Coventry^ as described by Mr. VViinier, appears also to have reduced herself by dram drinking, to such a state, as to be capable of being set on fire, and burning aw;jy like a match: so eager, says the learned Dr. Beddoes, were the principles of which she was composed, to combine with Oxygen, 86 On Hygieine, or the art An instance of the same kind occurred at Christ's church, in Hampshire. One John Hitchell, a carpenter, of that parish, a great drunkard, having ended his day's work, came home and went to bed. His wife found him dead before morning at her side. He felt so extremely hot, that it was impossible to touch him. He lay burning for three days; nor was there any appearance of flame outwardly, but only a smoke or mist ascending from his mouth till he was consumed. The Russians and Germans are frequently exposed to fainting during their cold season, from the noxious air of their stoves, and want of due ventilation. As soon as a person is discovered in this state, without sense and motion, he is instantly carried into the open air, and be- ing stript, is rubbed very briskly with snow, or cold wa- ter, which generally recovers him, if breathing has not been suspended above an hour. Faintings, or suffoca- tions from the fumes of charcoal, are commonly cured by cold water thrown on the patient. As the mass of atmospheric air is incessantly corrupt- ed by the respiration of men and animals, by the burn- ing of so many natural and artificial fires, by the disso- lution and putrefaction of innumerable substances, and by various other phlogistic or disoxygenating processes, it would at length become altogether incompetent for its original designation, if the all benevolent Creator had not provided eftectual means for its improvement and renovation. Among the most powerful of these is the vegetation of plants. For this very important discovery, we are indebted to Dr. Priestley, who was so fortunate as to make it after he had long employed many fruit- less attempts to correct impure air by artificial means. He found that air rendered deleterious by the breathing of animals, which had died in it, was again so completely restored by the vegetation of plants, that after the lapse of some days, an animal could live in it with equal ease, and for the same length of time, as before. The ingenious philosopher, Dr. Ingenhouz, remark- of Preserving Health. 87 ed, first, That most plants have the property of correct- ing bad air within a few hours, when they are exposed to the light of the sun; but that, on the contrary, during the nighty or in the shade, they corrupt the air: second, That plants from their own substance afford a very pure air, or oxygen, when exposed to the rays of the sun; but a very impure air, or azote, at night, or in the shade: third, That not all parts of plants, but only the green stalks of leaves, produce this beneficial effect: fourth, That the disengagement of j)ure or vital air does not commence until the sun hat> been some time above the horizon, that it ceases altogether with the termination of day-light; and that the disadvantage arising from the impure exhalations of plants, during the night, is far ex- ceeded by the great advantage they afford during the day; insomuch, that the impure air generated by a plant during the whole night, scarcely amounts to a hundredth part of the pure vital air, or oxygen, exhaled from the same plant in two hours of a serene day. Thus, the at- mosphere is constantly preserved in that state of purity, which is the most salutary both to animals and vege- tables. As the vegetable kingdom is renewed in Spring, and as vegetation in general is most lively in that season, there can be little doubt, that the pure vital air is then most copiously evolved by means of the light and heat of the sun. Hence it follows that the air of Spring is more wholesome than that of Autumn, which is satu- rated with impure particles. The cold, however, and the frequent winds which prevail at a more advanced pe- riod, prove extremely efficacious in counteracting the baneful effects of corruption and putrefaction. All strongly scented bodies are more or less perni- cious; not only those of a foetid, but even those of a fragrant smell. The latter, if too strong, are particular- ly dangerous, as a sense of disgust does not naturally incline us to avoid them. Hence people who carry large nosegays in the hot days of summer, or sleep in rooms decorated with flowers, are apt to feel themselves affect- 88 071 Hygieine, or the art ed with head-aches, vertigoes, fainting fits, and even apoplexies have been produced in persons of a pletho- ric habit. The smell of roses, how pleasing soever to most per- sons, is not only odious, but almost deadly to others. A gentleman has been known to fall into a swoon upon the smell of a rose. And Laurientus, Bishop of Uratis- lavia, was killed by the smell of this delightful flower. I knew a stout soldier, saith Donatus, who was never able to bear the smell or sight of the herb rue, but would evermore betake himself to flight at his first notice of its presence. Zacutus Lusitanus tells us of a fisherman, who, hav- ing spent his life at sea, and coming accidentally to the reception of the king of Portugal in a maritime town, where perfumes were burnt, was thereby thrown into a fit, judged apoplectic by two physicians, who treated him accordingly; till three days after the king's physi- cian guessing the cause, ordered him to be removed to the sea-side, and there to be covered with sea-weed, which soon recovered him. Warm air relaxes the body, and occasions a quicker circulation of the fluids: hence the tender and infirm suffer severely in hot weather; hence arise hysteric and hypochondriac complaints, convulsions and diarrhoeas. CWi/ renders bodies more compact, the appetite stronger, and digestion easier and quicker. On the contrary, the resistance of the fluid parts becomes so great, that even the increased powers of the solids cannot overcome it, if the cold be too violent. In winter the blood is much disposed to inflammations: hence stitches in the side, inflammatory sore throats, rheumatisms, &c. In persons who take little exercise, the fluids are apt to stagnate, and the solids to chill during the winter; upon the whole, however, the effects of cold weather may be ren- dered less hurtful, and even salutary to the body, if pro- per exercise be not neglected. of Preserving Health, Damp or Moist Air suddenly relaxes and debilitates, retarding the circulation, checking the perspiration, and depressing the spirits. If damp air be accompanied with cold, it tends, by obstructing the perspiration, to throw the retained humours on the breast, throat, stomach, bowels, &c. occasioning sore throats, pleurisies, sick Stomach, diarrheas, &c. If damp air be accompanied with heat, it is still worse, by opening the pores, through which the moisture penetrates into the body, and pre- disposes every part of it to putrefaction and dissolution. This accounts for the great mortality prevalent during the hot season at Batavia, and some of the West India islands. Dry and Cool Air^ from its elasticity, promotes, in an extraordinary manner, the serenity and alertness of mind and body; and is therefore most agreeable and salubri- ous both to the healthy and infirm. Too sudden a transition from warm to cold air, or the reverse, is pernicious. But none have ever complained on leaving, however suddenly, the sickly air of the town, for the dry, pure, temperate air of the country. — After all, the surest sign of good air in any place, is the lon- gevity of its inhabitants. The most certain marks by which to distinguish whether the air in rooms be damp or not, are the follow- ing: the walls or tapestry change their colour; bread ac- quires a mouldy surface; sponges in the rooms retain their moisture; loaf-sugar turns soft, iron rusts; brass and copper acquire a green colour, and wooden furni- ture moulders and crumbles to pieces. In cities the sitting rooms ought if possible to be above the ground floor, or on the second story, well ventilated by convenient doors and wdndows. And as to the bed- rooms, they ought assuredly to be on the most elevated stories in the house, that they may be as far removed as possible from that mass of azote, or deadly aii*, which is so copiously generated in large towns, and which natu- rally settles near the ground. Dr. Caldwell, lecturing on this subject, states that it M On Hygieme^ or the an was on this principle he was induced, contrary to the remonstrances of his family and friends, to keep his son in tlie third story of his house, during a very sickly season in Philadelphia, and adds that he could not avoid being sensibly struck with its happy effects in preserv- ing his heakh. And I am convinced the excellent health which my family enjoyed during eight or nine years' residence in Savannah, was greatly owing to sleeping in large well aired chambers, three stories from the ground. The airing of apartments should not be neglected, even in winter, as fires alone are not sufficient to carry off the corrupted air. If possible, we should not sit through the day in a room in which we have slept; as the bed clothes, and particularly feather beds, very slow- ly part with the exhalations they have imbibed during the night. It farther deserves to be remarked, that all damp vapours are prejudicial, hence the keeping of wet clothes in dwelling rooms, should by all means be care- fully avoided. OF FOOD. For this the watchful appetite was given. Daily with fresh materials to repair This unavoidable expense of life. This necessary waste of Hesh and blood. Hence the concoctive powers, with various arti Subdue the cruder aliments to chyle; The chyle to blood; the foamy purple tide To liquors, which through finer arteries To different parts their winding course pursue; To try new changes, and new forms put on. Or for the public, or some private use. Armstrong. Nature not only points out the Food fit for infancy, but also kindly prepares it. When the babe, just born of Preserving Health, 91 into this cold world, is applied to its mother's bosom, its sense of perceiving warmth is first agreeably affect- ed; next its sense of smell is delighted with the odour of the milk; then its taste is gratified by the flavour of it; afterwards the appetites of hunger and of thirst af- ford pleasure by the possession of their objects, and by- the subsequent digestion of the aliment; and lastly, the sense of touch is delighted by the softness and smooth- ness of the milky fountain, which the innocent em- braces with its hands, presses with its lips, and watches with its eyes. Satisfied, it smiles at the enjoyment of such a variety of pleasures. It feels an animal attrac- tion, which is love; a gratification when the object is present, a desire when it is absent, which constitutes the purest source of human felicity, the cordial drop in the otherwise vapid cup of life, which overpays the fond mother for all her solicitudes and cares. Lo! at the couch where infant beauty sleeps, Her silent watch the mournful mother keeps; She, while the lovely babe unconscious lies, Smiles on her slumbering child with pensive eyes. And weaves a song of melancholy joy. — Campbell. A parent who abandons the fruit of her womb as soon as it is born, to the sole care of an hireling, hardly deserves that tender appellation. Nothing can be so pre- posterous and unnatural, as a mother abandoning the care of her child. If we search Nature throughout, we cannot find a parallel. Every other animal is the nurise of its own offspring, which thrives accordingly. Connubial fair! whom no fond transport warms, To lull your infant in maternal arms; Who, blest in vain with tumid bosom, hear His tender wailing with unfeeling ear; 92 On Hygieine, or the art The soothing kiss, and milky rill deny- To the sweet pouting lip, and glist'ning eye! Ah! what avails the cradle's damask roof, The eider bolster, and embroider'd woof 1 Oft hears the gilded coach, unpity'd plains; And many a tear the tasseled cushion stains! No voice so sweet attunes his cares to rest, So soft no pillow, as his mother's breast! Darwin. It is in infancy and early age, that the foundation Is laid for the many diseases arising from indigestion, which are now found in almost every family. If children are fed immoderately, the first passages become too much distended, and the stomach by degrees acquires an un- natural craving for food, which must be satisfied, what- ever be the consequence. These excessive supplies not only are unnecessary, but produce the most serious and fatal disorders. There is a certain relation subsisting be- tween what is taken in, and what is lost by the body; if we eat and drink much, we likewise lose much, without gaining any more by it than we might do by moderate meals. Eating too little retards the growth, and eventu- ally diminishes the digestive power of the stomach. Na- ture is easily satisfied, and is always best provided if we do not obtrude upon her more than she is accustom- ed to. If we have for some time, taken little nourish- ment, nature becomes so habituated to it, that we feel indisposed as soon as the usual measure is transgressed; and both the stomach and its digestive powers are there- by impaired. It would be impossible to lay down fixed rules, whereby to determine the salubrity or insalubrity of ali- ments, with respect to the individual. Experience is indeed our chief guide upon this sub- ject; for such is the peculiarity of constitutions, that the same article which will nourish and perfectly agree with of Preserving Health, 93 ^jne person, would prove highly pernicious to another. Let us, therefore, in the selection of our food, adopt that which long and careful observation has confirmed to be salutary, and to avoid those things, however tempt- ing to the palate, which we know to be injurious. There are, however, articles of diet obviously impro- per to every one, which though they may not manifest their ill effects immediately, yet, nevertheless, under- mine and break down by gradual operation, the vigour of our systems, and entail upon us with certainty a train of chronic disorders, of all others the most troublesome and difficult to cure. The articles of this description are all high seasoned dishes, and those which are com- posed of a great variety of ingredients. People in health require no excitement to the relish of good and whole- some meat, and to those in the opposite state, the luxu- ries of the table are poison. It is an old saying, that good laws have their ori- ginal from the bad manners and evil way of living in that people for whom they are made." From which we may conclude that the Romans were a people exceed- ingly addicted to all kind of luxury, in as much as they enacted so many laws to repress their proneness to the practice of this vice. Yet all these were ineffectual; for, according as their riches increased, so did their inclinations grow this way, till at last, in a monstrous sensuality, they extinguished even the last remains of their primitive virtue. This ex- ample hath since been followed to a pernicious extent in every civilized country. The sad effects of luxury are these; We drink our poison, and we eat disease. Not so, O Temperance bland; when ruled by thee. The brute 's obedient, and the man is free: Soft are his slumbers, balmy is his rest, His veins not boiling from the midnight feast. 94 On Hygieine, or the art 'Tis to thy rules, bright Temperance! we owe All pleasures which from strength and health can flow; Vigour of body, purity of mind, Unclouded reason, sentiments refin'd; Unmix'd, untainted joys, without remorse, The intemperate sensualist's never failing curse. DODD. There are three kinds of appetite: first. The natural appetite, which is equally stimulated and satisfied with the most simple dish as with the most palatable: second, The f^r^i^cm/ appetite, or that excited by bitters, spirits, pickles, and other condiments, which remains only as long as the operation of these stimulants continues: third. The habitual appetite, or that by which we accus- tom ourselves to take victuals at certain hours, and fre- quently without any appetite. Longing for a particular food is likewise a kind of false appetite. By the true and healthy appetite alone, can we ascer- tain the quantity of aliment proper for the individual. If in that state we no longer relish a common dish, it is a certain criterion of its disagreeing with our digestive organs. If after dinner we feel ourselves as cheerful as before it, we may be assured that we have taken a pro- per meal; for if the proper measure be exceeded, torpor will ensue, with indigestion, and a variety of unpleasant complaints. The stomach being too much distended by frequent indulgence, will not rest satisfied with the former quan- tity of food; its avidity will increase with excess, and temperance alone can reduce it to its natural state, and restore its elasticity. Fulness of blood and corpulency, are the disagreeable effects of gluttony; which progres- sively relaxes the stomach, and punishes the offender Avith headach, fever, diarrhoea, and sometimes sudden death. When the tir'd glutton labours through a treat, He finds no relish in the sweetest meat. of Preserving Health, 95 Then hear what blessings Temperance can bring, (Those blessings, only, form my cause to sing) First Health — the stomach cramm'd from every dish, A tomb of roast and boil'd, of flesh and fish, Where hile and tvind^ and phlegm and acid jsLV, And all the man is one intestine war, Remembers well the school- boy's simple fare^ The temperate sleeps, and spirits light as air. Pope. King Hardicanute, as Harold his brother for his swift- ness was surnamed Harcfoot, so he for his intemperance in diet might have been surnamed Swinesmouth; for his tables were spread every day four times, and fur- nished with all kinds of curious dishes, as delighting in nothing but gormandizing and swilling. — But he had soon the reward of his intemperance; for in a solemn as- sembly and banquet at Lambeth, revelling and carous- ing, he suddenly fell down without speech or breathy after he had reigned only two years. It was a maxim of Socrates, " that we ought to eat and drink to live, and not to live in order to eat and drink." Something may be said in favour of those whom disease has brought to a canine appetite; but nothing in behalf of those gluttons, whose paunches have been so immeasurably distended by a beastial custom, and an inordinate desire to gratify their own sensuality. Sen- sual enjoyment, when it becomes habitual, loses its rel» ish, and is converted into a burden. Temperance in meat, drink, and pleasures, is the great support of nature. It is the preservation of the dominion of soul over sensCj of reason over passion. The want of it destroys health, for- tune and conscience. Chremes, of Greece, though a young man, was verjr infirm and sickly, through a cours% of luxury and in- 96 On Hygieine^ or the art temperance, and subject to those strange sorts of fitj? which are called trances. In one of these, he thought that a philosopher came to sup with him; who, out of all the dishes served up at the table, would only eat of one, and that the most simple: yet his conversation was sprightly, his knowledge great, his countenance cheer- ful, and his constitution strong. When the philosopher took his leave, he invited Chremes to sup with him at a house in the neighbourhood: this also took place in his imagination, and he thought he was received with the most polite and affectionate tokens of friendship, but was greatly surprised, when supper came up, to find nothing but milk and honey, and a few roots dressed up in the plainest manner, to which cheerfulness and good sense were the only sauces. As Chremes was unused to this kind of diet, and could not eat, the philosopher or- dered another table to be spread more to .his tastej and immediately there succeeded a banquet, composed of the most artificial dishes that luxury could invent, with great plenty and variety of the richest and most intoxi- cating wines. 'J'hese, too, were accompanied by damsels of the most bewitching beauty. And now Chremes gave a loose to his appetites, and every thing he tasted raised ecstasies beyond what he had ever known. During the repast, the damsels sung and danced to entertain him; their charms enchanted the enraptured guest, already heated with what he had drunk; his senses were lost in ecstatic confusion; every thing around him seemed Ely- sium, and he was upon the point of indulging the most boundless freedom, when, lo! on a sudden, their beauty, which was but a visor, fell off*, and discovered to his view forms the most hideous and forbidding imagina- ble. Lust, revenge, folly, murder, meagre poverty and frantic despair, now appearec^ in their most odious shapes, and the place instantly became the direst scene of mise- ry and desolation. How often did Chremes wish himself far distant from such diabolical company! and how dread the fatal consequences which threatened him on every side! His blood ran chill to his heart; his knees smote against each other With fear, and joy and rapture were of Preserving Health, 97 turned into astonishment and horror. When the phi- losopher perceived that this scene had made a sufficient impression on his guest, he thus addressed him: "Know, Chremes, it is I, it is iEsculapius, who has thus enter- tained you; and what you have here beheld is the true image of the deceitfulness and misery inseparable from luxury and intemperance. Would you be happy, be temperate. Temperance is the parent of health, virtue, wisdom, plenty, and of every thing that can render you happy in this world, or the world' to come. It is, indeed, the true luxury of life; for, without it, life cannot be enjoyed.'' This said, he disappeared; and Chremes, awaking, and instructed by the vision, altered his course of life, became frugal, temperate, industrious; and by that means so mended his health and estate, that he lived without pain, to a very old age, and was esteemed one of the richest, best, and wisest men in Greece. Such is the beautiful moral drawn by the pen of ele- gant and instructive fiction; with which, if there be any mind so insensible as not to be properly affected, let us only turn to that striking reality presented to us in the case of Lewis Cornaro. This gentleman was a Vene- tian of noble extraction, and memorable for having lived to an extreme old age; for he was above a hundred years old at the time of his death, which happened at Padua, in the year 1565. Amongst other little perform- ances, he left behind him a piece entitled, " Of the ad- vantages of a Temperate Life," of which we will here give our readers some account; not only because it will very well illustrate the life and character of the author, but may possibly be of use to those who take the sum- mum bonum^ or chief good of life, to consist in good eating. He was moved, it seems, to compose this little piece at the request and for the benefit of some ingeni- ous young men, for whom he had a regard; and who, having long since lost their parents, and seeing him, then eighty- one years old, in a fine, florid state of health, were desirous to know of him what it was that enabled him to preserve, as he did, a sound mind in a sound bo- dy, to so extreme an age. He describes to them, there- N 98 On HygieinCy or the art fore, his whole manner of living, and the regimen he had always pursued, and was then pursuing. He tells them that, when he was young, he was very intempe- rate; that his intemperance had brought upon him many and grievous disorders; that, from the thirty-fifth to the fortieth year of his age, he spent his nights and days in the utmost anxiety and pain; and that, in short, his life was grown a burthen to him. The physicians, however, as he relates, notwithstanding all the vain and fruitless efforts which they had made to restore his health, told him that there was one method still remaining, which had never been tried, but which, if they could but pre- vail with him to use with perseverance, might free him, in time, from all his complaints; and that was a tempe- rate and regular way of living. They added, moreover, that, unless he resolved to apply instantly to it, his case would soon become desperate, and there would be no hopes at all of his recovery. Upon this he immediately- prepared himself for his new regimen; and now began to eat and drink nothing but what was proper for one in his WTak habit of body: but this was at first very- disagreeable to him. He often wanted to live again in i his old manner; and did, indeed, indulge himself in a freedom of diet, sometimes, without the knowledge of his physician; but, as he informs us, much to his own detriment and uneasiness. Driven, in the mean time, by the necessity of the thing, and resolutely exerting all the powers of his understanding, he at last grew con- firmed in a settled and uninterrupted course of tempe- rance: by virtue of which, as he assures us, all his dis- orders had left him in less than a year: and he had been a firm and healthy man, from thenceforward, till the time in which he wrote his treatise. Some sensuahsts, as it appears, had objected to his abstemious manner of living; and, in order to evince the reasonableness of their own, had urged that it was not worth while to mortify one's appetites at such a rate for the sake of being old, since all that was life, after the age of sixty-five, could not properly be called a liv- ing life, but a dead lifew Now," says he, " to show of Preserving Health* 99 these gentlemen how much thpy arc mistaken, I will briefly run over the satisfactions and pleasures which I myself enjoy in this eighty-third year of my age. In the first place, I am always well, and so active, withal, that I can, with ease, mount a horse upon a flat, or walk upon the tops of very high mountains. In the next place, I am always cheerful, pleasant, perfectly content- ed, and free from all perturbation, and every uneasy thought. I have none of that fastidium vita^ that satiety of life, so often to be met with in persons of my age. I take a view of palaces, gardens, antiquities, public build- ings, temples, fortifications, and endeavour to let nothing escape me which may afford the least amusement to a rational mind. Nor are these pleasures at all blunted by the usual imperfections of great age; for I enjoy all my senses in perfect vigour; my taste especially, in so high a degree, that I have a better relish for the plainest food now than I had for the choicest delicacies formerly, when immersed in a life of luxury." As a principal rule of diet, we ought to take food with an easy and serene mind, and to eat slowly. The stomach suffering in this case a very gradual distention, as the food has sufficient time to be duly prepared by masti- cation. To eat of one dish only seems most conformable to nature, and is, doubtless, the means of procuring the most healthy fluids. The diet ought npt only to be such as is best adapted to the constitution, but likewise to be taken at regular periods; for long fasting is hurtful at any stage of life. All great and sudden changes of diet are universally dan- gerous, particularly from a rich and full diet to a low and sparing one. When, therefore a change becomes neces- sary, it ought always to be made byidegrees. When a person has suffered so much from extreme hunger, much food must not be given him at once. By full feeding, thousands long starved at sea, have been destroyed at once. Such persons should be supplied with liquid food, and that sparingly. As soon as the food has entered the stomach, the im- 100 On Hygieine^ or the art portant office of digestion begins. The vigour of the organs exerted on this occasion, ought certainly not to be abridged by violent exercise; but muscular and ro- bust people feel no inconvenience from gentle motion about one hour after the heaviest meal. But as the whole process of digestion is of much longer duration than is generally imagined, the afternoon hours cannot be em- ployed so advantageously to health in any labour re- quiring strong exertions. In violent exercise, or an increased state of perspira- tion, the fluids are propelled to the external parts, and withdrawn from the stomach, where they are indispen- sable to assist the proper concoction. Exclusive of the quantity and quality of food, great attention is due to the kind of it in particular constitu- tions. Animal food in general is more nourishing than vegetable, and when fresh, is likewise more easy of di- gestion. On this account, it generally agrees best with delicate and weak constitutions. But the flesh of young animals, with a proportionate quantity of well boiled and wholesome vegetables, is the best diet adapted to our system. In summer it is ad- visable to increase the proportion of vegetable food, and to make use of acids, such as vinegar, lemons, oranges, and the like. With regard to our food, however, in quantity and quality, it should be properly proportioned to our exercise. The labourer, who is perpetually toiling from morning till night, could not subsist on food ap- propriated to those who pursue not the severer exercises of the body; his diet must be of the coarser kind, such as salted meats or fish, cheese, corn bread, potatoes, onions, and peas, and these in pretty large quantities. On the whole, it will be found to be the safest both in health and sickness to regulate our diet with simplicity, ever bearing in mind that a preference is to be given to such articles as our personal knowledge has demonstra- ted to be the most congenial to our constitutions and habits. Nature has appointed milk for the food of children; of Preserving Healths 101 because on account of their growth they require much nourishment. From this circumstance we may also con- clude, that milk is easily digested by healthy stomachs, since at the early age of children the digestive powers are but feeble; and hence it is of service to persons en- feebled by dissipation or disease. Yet milk is not a pro- per food for the debilitated in all cases; nay, under cir- cumstances, it may even be hurtful. It does not, for instance, agree with hypochondriacs; as it occasions cramp of the stomach, heart-burn, colic, or diarrhoea. Febrile patients, whose weak organs of digestion do not admit of nutritious food, and whose preternatural heat would too Asily change the milk into a rancid mass, must abstain from it altogether. With these exceptions, milk is an excellent species of diet, generally of easy digestion, insomuch, that per- sons much reduced in bodily vigour, have been cured by eating milk only. Buttermilk^ when new and sweet, is cooling and re- freshing; as also is bonny-clabber. Cheese, being made of the tough parts of milk, is dif- ficult of digestion; and should be used with caution, ex- cept by the hearty and laborious. Eggs, when fresh, and soft boiled, are as wholesome as they are delicious; but when hard boiled, they are indigestible; and when corrupt or tainted, have occa- sioned violent purging and vomiting, and putrid fevers. Fish in general, are less nourishing than other animal food, though they are not difficult of digestion while in a fresh state. Salt water fish are perhaps the best of any, as their flesh is more solid, more agreeable and healthy, less exposed to putrescency, and less viscid. Fresh wa- ter fish should lie in strong salt and water, an hour or two before they are dressed; otherwise the mud flavour that is in them is very apt to nauseate weak stomachs. 102 On Hygieine^ or the aH Crabs and lobsters^ when quite fresh, are excellent food, but if tainted, they are no better than poison. The inhabitants of inland towns cannot be too cautious in their use of them. Oysters^ when raw, are easily digested, and may be eaten with great advantage even by the weak and con- sumptive. If eaten in any quantity, they produce laxa- tive effects; hence they afford an excellent supper tp those liable to costiveness. Poultry, as chickens and turkeys, furnishes a most valuable aliment. * Venison, and every variety of game, form a light and wholesome food, and extremely useful to delicate sto- machs. Beef, pork and bacon, yield a copious and permanent nourishment; and when taken in moderate quantities, agree well with all stomachs and constitutions. Sausages are a substantial kind of nourishment, but require strong stomachs to digest them. The same may be said of blood-sausages, usually called black pud- dings. Bread, which is called the staff of life, is very pro- perly eaten with animal food, to correct the disposition to putrescency; but is most expedient with such articles in diet as contain much nourishment in a small bulk, be- cause it then serves to give the stomach a proper degree of expansion. To render bread easy of digestion, it ought to be well fermented. To persons troubled with flatulency and indigestion, all pastry whatever is un- wholesome, frequently producing dangerous colics and incurable obstructions. Fruit, in general, possesses strongly resolvent pow- «rs, and is the more beneficial as it comes to maturity of Preserving Health. 103 at a time when the body is relaxed by the heat of sum- mer, and when the blood has a strong tendency to in- flammation. It is besides of great service in attenuating the thick bilious impurities collected during the sum- mer, and of evacuating them by its laxative virtues. — The acid contained in most kinds of fruit, is as useful to quench thirst as to resist putrefaction. In weak sto- machs, however, or such as are filled with impurities and slime, it is apt to ferment and occasion some incon- venience; but this may be avoided by a temperate use. It is most wholesome when eaten on an empty stomach, which can exert all its power to expel the air disengaged from it, and to remove it before it begins to ferment. Boiling, as well as drying, corrects the flatulent tenden- cy of fresh fruit; so that thus prepared, it will agree with almost all stomachs. By either of these methods it is de- prived of its superfluous humidity, as well as of its fixed air; whence it becomes more nourishing, but less cool- ing than in the fresh state. In our aliment, an essential part is drink^ the use of which is indispensable to the digestion of food. ffatevy as the basis of most of our drinks, should be carefully obtained in its highest purity. Passing, for the most part, through subterranean channels, it is often impregnated with metals or minerals of a nature injuri- ous to the constitution; and such impregnation may be known by the sensible qualities of the water. The best water is that which is pure, light, and without any par- ticular colour, taste or smell. Where water cannot be obtained pure from springs, wells, rivers or lakes, care should be taken to deprive it of its pernicious qualities, by boiling and filtering, but most effectually by distilla- tion. Any putrid substances in the water, may be cor- rected by the addition of an acid. Thus half an ounce of alum, in powder, will make twelve gallons of corrupted water pure and transparent in two hours, without im- parting a sensible degree of astringency. Charcoal pow- der has also been found of great efficacy in checking the 104 On Hygieinc, or the art putrid tendency of water. To the same purpose vinegar and other strong acids, are well adapted. Whatever kind of drink is used, it ought to be taken always in a moderate quantity. Too much drink, even of water, innocent as it is, tends to oppress and weaken the stomach, of course to generate acidities and flatu- lence. Some advise us never to drink without eating some- thing, but he who drinks only when nature requires it, has no occasion to eat every time he drinks. Persons, on the contrary, who are once accustomed to drink more than is necessary, or to make use of hot, stimulating, and intoxicating liquors, would do well always to eat some bread, or other solid food, along with them. An undue proportion of drink, renders the mass of blood too thin and watery, and occasions a general de- bility of the body. On the other hand, too little drink renders the blood thick and viscid, and weakens the di- gestive powers. Light and well fermented beer, is a wholesome, and at the same time, diluent species of nourishment. With persons already plethoric, the light- est beer generally agrees best. Thick and nourishing beer, is of service to wet nurses, and the debilitated. Sweet beers are only nourishing, but the bitter kinds are strengthening also. The latter are beneficial in a weak state of digestion, and to people troubled with acid in the stomach; yet sweet beer is more wholesome for daily use, and at the same time less exposed to dan- gerous adulterations. Cider^ when properly fermented and pure, is also a pleasant and wholesome liquor. On the contrary, when it is new or tart, we cannot recommend it as a salubrious beverage. TFine^ when pure, and used in moderation, certainly conduces to health, especially in weak and languid ha- bits. See Vine. Mat. Med. Ardent Spirits^ when properly diluted, is likewise ap of Preserving Healtlu 105 excellent beverage and antiseptic. These liquors are of considerable service in preventing the bad eft'ects of a moist and cold atmosphere, pestilential vapours, damp military camps, unclean occupations, and occasionally too, of a temporary abstinence from food. But as the infusion of too great a quantity of oil im- mediately extinguishes the lamp; the light of reason and the lamp of life itself are frequently suffocated, and put out for ever by an imprudent use of either wine or spirits. It was a usual custom amongst the Romans to drink down the evening, and to drink up the morning star: and another of their common practices was, to drink so many cups and healths, as there were letters in the names of their mistresses: Six cups to Navia's health, seven to Justina be. To Lijcas five, to Lyde four, and then to Ida three. Martial. A young officer meeting with several of his old ac- quaintances, and being induced by them to follow the example of the Romans in this respect, was so over- come by what he drank, that he laid himself down to sleep, upon a bench, which was near to an open case- ment; there was his face beat upon all the night long, by a thick snow that had fallen. In the morning he had a strange writhing in his mouth; his right cheek, which lay nearest to the window, was fixed, nor was he able to move the eye-brow, or any of the muscles on that side of the face, in consequence of a partial stroke of the palsy. Some riotous Students, at a famous University, were entertained by Mr. R. a bachelor, at his chamber, who intending to treat them to the height of intemperance, had so gorged himself with toddy and wine that he was f^ist asleep at the table he sat by; in which posture his associates left hini. A candle stood upon the table near him; and in liis sleep he had turned himself so incon- O 106 On Hygieinv, or the art veniently, that it burnt his breast, and the parts about it, in such a manner, that his entrails might be seen, which yet was not perceived by him that was buried in wine. In the morning he was called on and awakened by his fellow toss-pots, and invited by them to take a glass of mint cordial, when he complained of insuffer- able torments. The most skilful physicians were immediately sent for, but in vain did they endeavour to oppose so great a burning; so that in horrid torments, upon the third day following, he concluded his miserable life; having first warned his companions, with tears, to beware of intemperance. Tea is considered by some as being highly injurious, while others have either asserted its innocence, or even ascribed to it extraordinary virtues. When taken in a large quantity, or very strong, and at a late hour, it of- ten produces watchfulness; but if used in moderation, It greatly relieves an oppressed stomach, and pains of the head. It ought, however, to be made of a moderate strength, otherwise it certainly effects the nerves. Hy- pochondriac and hysteric people are much deceived in their opinions of the efficacy of tea; for all the evils arising from weak stomachs and flatulency, of which they complain, are certainly increased by tea, especially if taken in large quantities, and strong. The cold sto- mach which they propose to warm by it, is a mere phantom of the brain; for this sensation of cold, is no- thing but relaxation, which, instead of being removed by hot liquors, is assuredly increased by them. Coffee promotes digestion, and exhilarates the animal spirits; but an excessive use of it, like tea, aflects the nerves, occasions watchfulness, and trembling of the hands. As possessing excellent antispasmodic virtues, it is a favourite bevera'ge with the hypocondriac and hysteric. Chocolate is nutritious and wholesome, if taken in of Preserving Health. 107 small quantity; but to the corpulent arid weak, particu- larly those which whom a vegetable diet disagrees, it is generally hurtful. OF EXERCISE. By health the peasant's toil Is well repaid; if exercise were pain Indeed, and temperance pain. By arts like these Laconia nursed of old her hardy sons; And Rome's unconquered legions urged their way, Unhurt, through every toil in every clime. Toil and be strong. By toil the flaccid nerves Grow firm, and gain a more compacted tone; The greener juices are by toll subdu'd. Mellowed, and subtilis'd; the vapid old Expell'd, and all the rancour of the blood. Begin with gentJe toils, and, as your nerves, Grow fii-m, to hardier by just steps aspire. The prudent, even in every moderate walk. At first but saunter; and by slow degrees Increase their pace. This doctrine of the wise. Well knows the master of the flying steed. Armstrong. It was a common saying among the ancients, that acute diseases are from heaven and chronic from our- selves. To die, says Dr. Johnson, is the fate of man; but to die with lingering anguish, is generally his own folly. Inactivity never fails to induce an universal re- laxation of the contractile fibres. When these fibres are relaxed, neither the digestion, the circulation, npr the peristaltic motion can be duly performed. It is absolutely impossible to enjoy health where the perspiration also is not duly carried on; and that can never be the case, where exercise is neglected. The necessity of action is not only demonstrable from the {di\)nQ of the body, but evident from the observa- 108 On Hygieine^ or the art tion of the universal practice of mankind, who, for the preservation of health in those whose rank or wealth exempts them from the necessity of labour, have in- vented sporrs and diversions, though not of equal use to the world with agricultural employments, yet of equal fatigue to those who practice them, and differing only from the drudgery ot the husbandman, as they are acts of choice, and therefore performed without the painful sensation of compulsion. But such is the constitution of man, that labour may be styled its own reward, nor will any external excite- ments be requisite, if it be considered how much hap- piness is gained, and how much misery escaped, by frequent and violent agitation of the body. "Love labour," cried a Philosopher, " if you do not want it for food, you may for physic." The idle man is more perplexed what to do, than the industrious in doing what he ought. Action keeps the soul in con- stant health; but idleness corrupts and rusts the mind. A gentleman was under close confinement in the Bastile seven years, during which he amtised himself in scattering a few small pins about his chamber, ga- thering them up again, and placing them in different figures on the arm of a great chair. He often told his friends, afterwards, that unless he had found out this piece of exercise, he verily believed he should have lost his senses. " Pray, of what did your brother die?" said the Marquis Spinola, one day, to Sir Horace Vere. He died, Sir," said he, '*of having nothing to do." — Alas! Sir," said Spinola, **that is enough to kill any general of us all." Indolence often originates from a mistaken educa- tion, m which pleasure or flattery is made the immedi- ate motive of action, and not future advantage, or what is termed duty. This observation is of great value to those who attend to the education of their own children* of Preserving Health. 109 I have seen (says Dr. Darwin) one or two younj^ mar- ried ladies of foriune, who j)crpetually became uneasy, and believed themselves ill, a week after their arrivalin the country, and continued so uniformly during their stay; yet, on their return to London or Bath, immedi- ately lost all their complaints; and this repeatedly; which I was led to ascribe to their being in (heir infancy surrounded with menial attendants, who had flattered them into the exertions they then used. And that in their riper years, they became torpid for want of this stimulus, and could not amuse themselves by any vo- luntary employment; but required ever after either to be amused by other people, or to be flattered into activity. Dr. Johnson says, " whenever chance brings within my observation a knot of young ladies, busy at their needles, I consider myself as in the school of virtue; and though 1 have no extraordinary skill in plain work or embroidery, I look upon their operations with as much satisfaction as their governess, because I regard them as providing a security against the most dangerous insnarers of the soul, by enabling themselves to exclude idleness from their solitary moments, and with idleness, its at- tendant train of passions, fancies, chimeras, fears, sor- rows, and desires." If sedentary employments are intermixed with a due quantity of exercise, they will never injure health. Weak fibres are the constant companions of inactivity. Nothing but daily exercise in the open air can brace and strengthen the powers of the stomach, and prevent an endless train of diseases, which proceed from a relaxed state of that organ. We seldom hear the active and labo- rious complain of what are called nervous diseases; these are reserved for the sons of idleness. Many have been completely cured of these disorders by being reduced from a state of opulence to labour for their daily bread. This plainly points out the sources whence nervous dis. eases flow^ and the means by which they niiay be pre- vented. 110 On Hygieine^ or the art Weariness Can snore upon the flint; when resty sloth Finds the downy pillow bard. The shades descend, and midnight o'er the world Expands her sable wings. Great nature droops Through all her works. How happy he whose toil Has o'er his languid powerless limbs diffused A pleasing lassitude. He not in vain Invokes the gentle deity of dreams. By toil subdued^ the warrior and the hind Sleep fast and deep, — Their active functions soon With generous streams their subtle tubes supply Ere morn, the tonic irritable nerves Feel the fresh impulse, and awake the soul. Armstrong. Independent of the blessing of health by exercise, "the hand of the diligent," as justly observed by Dr. Dodd, maketh rich; but the soul of the sluggard desire th, and hath nothing." A gentleman states, that as he was sitting with some friends before the door of the Capitol, a beggar pre- sented himself, who with sighs and tears, and lamentable gestures, expressed his miserable poverty, saying withal, that he had about him a private disorder, which shame prevented him from discovering to the eyes of men." They, pitying the case of the poor man, gave each of them sometliing, and he departed: one amongst them sent his servant after him, to enquire what his private infirmity might be, which he was so loth to discover? The servant overtook him, and desired that satisfaction; and having diligently viewed his face, breast, arms^ &c. and finding all his limbs in good plight, " I see nothing," of Preserving Health. Ill said he, whereof you have any such reason to com- plain.'' "Alas!" said the beggar, **the disease that afflicts me, is far different from what you conceive of, and is such as you cannot see; it is an evil that has crept over my whole body; it is passed through the very veins and marrow of me, in such a manner, that there is no one member of my body that is able to tak^ proper exercise, or do any work; this disease by some is called idleness." The servant hearing this, left him in anger, and returned with this account of him; which, after they had well laughed at, they sent to make further inquiry after this beggar, but he had withdrawn himself. To show the absolute necessity of exercise in cold climates, we cannot omit relating the botanical excursion of Sir Joseph Banks, Dr. Solander, and others, on the heights of Terra- del- Ftlego. Dr. Solander, who had more than once crossed the mountains which divide Sweden from Norway, well knew that extreme cold produced a torpor and sleepiness almost irresistible; he therefore conjured the company to keej) always in mo- tion, whatever pain it might cost them, and whatever relief they might be promised by rest: Whoever sits down,'''' said- he, '•'-will sleep; and xvhoever sleeps will wake no more^ Thus at once admonished and alarmed, they set forward, but while they were still upon the naked rock, and before they got among the bushes, the cold was so intense, as to produce the effects that had been most dreaded- Dr. Solander, himself, was the first who found the inclination, against which he had warned others, irresistible; and insisted upon being suffered to lie down. Sir Joseph Banks entreated and remonstrated with him in vain; down he lay upon the ground, though it was covered with snow; and it was with great difiicultv that his friends kept him from sleeping. One of his black servants also began to linger. Partly by persuasion, and partly by force, the company made them go forward. Soon, however, they both declared, they would go no farther." Sir Joseph Banks had recourse again to ex-! postulation^ but this produced no effect. '^When thel 112 On Hygieine, or the art black was told, that if he did not go on, he would in Ik short time be frozen to death, he answered that he desired nothing so mnch as to lie down and Jdie. The Doctor did not so explicitly renounce his life; he said he could go on, but that he must first take some slecp^'^ thougli he had before told the company, that " to sleep, was to perish." They both in a few minutes fell into a profound sleep; after considerable exertions they happily succeeded in waking the Doctor, who had almost lost the use of his limbs, and the muscles were so shrunk, that his shoes fell from his feet; but every attempt to rclieve the unfortunate black proved unsuccessful. The ten thousand Greeks, in their memorable retreat in passing through Amenia, were exposed, says Xeno- phon, to a contest still more dangerous than the enemy, in which neither skill nor valour could avail. The snow fell in such quantities during the night, as completely covered the men with their arms. Their bodies, when freed from the snow, were benumbed and parched with the piercing coldness of the north wind. Many slaves end sumpter horses perished, with about thirty soldiers. It was observed, that those died who did not use suffi- cient exercise. Since we have touched upon the subject of cold, we cannot forbear inserting the observations of the im- mortal Darwin. Animal bodies resist the power of cold probably by their exertions. But if these increased exertions be too violent, so as to exhaust the power of the brain, the animal will probably sooner perish. Thus, a moderate quantity of wine or spirit, repeated at proper intervals of tiuic, might be of service to those who are long ex- posed to excessive cold, both by increasing the action of the capillary vessels, and thus producing heat, and per- haps by increasing in some degree the secretion of sen- sorial power in the brain. But the contrary must happen when taken immediatel}', and not at due intervals. A of Prese^-ving Health. 113 well attested history was once related to me of two men, who set out on foot to travel in the snow, one of whom drank two or three glasses of brandy before they began their journey, the other contented himself with his usual diet and potation; the former of whom perished, in spite of every assistance his companion could afford him, and the other performed his journey with safety. In this case the power of the brain was exhausted by the unne- cessary motions of incipient intoxication by the stimulus of the brandy, as well as by the exertions of walking, which so weakened the dram-drinker, that the cold sooner destroyed him; that is, he had not power to pro- duce sufficient muscular or arterial action, and in con- sequence sufficient heat to supply the great expenditure of it. Hence the capillaries or smaller vessels of the skin, first ceased to act, and became pale and empty; next those which are immediately associated with them, as the extremities of the pulmonary artery, as happens on going into the cold bath. By the continued inaction of these parts of the vascular system, the blood becomes accumulated in the internal arteries, and the brain is supposed to be affected by its compression; because these patients are said to sleep, or to become apoplec- tic, before they die. When travellers are benighted in deep snow, they might frequently save themselves by lying down on the dry ground, and suffering themselves to be entirely covered with the snow, except a small hole for air. The ground being usually at the 40th degree of cold, that is, eight degrees above freezing, and the snow in contact with their clothes, thawing and contracting into the snow next to it, would form above them a close dry co- verlid, that would perfectly exclude the external cold, and place them in a situation almost as warm as a bed! My reverend and worthy friend, Dr. Andrew Hun- ter, of Washington, overcome with the fatigued of a long day's march, during the revolutionary war, threw himself down with the rest of the armv, on the cold fro- P 114 On Hygieiney or the art zen ground. His only cover was a blanket, and a saddle his pillow. Instantly his wearied senses were locked up in sleep so sound, that he never felt the cold snow, which presently began to fall in heavy flakes upon him. Next morning when he awoke, he was astonished at his situation — a heavy fall of snow a foot deep had com- pletely covered him, through which the heat of his breath, melting the snow as it fell, had formed a nice opening. Having raised his head, and seeing his com- rades still asleep, he laid himself down to enjoy a little longer this singular kind of bed, which he declared was very pleasant. If these facts were more generally known, they might save the lives of many valuable citizens. OF SLEEP. The shades descend, and midnig-ht o'er the v/orld Expands her sable wings. Great Nature droops Through all her works. Now happy he whose toil Has o'er his languid powerless limbs diffused A pleasing lassitude: he not in vain Invokes the gentle Deity of dreams. His powers the most voluptuously dissolve In soft repose: on him the balmy dews Of sleep with double nutriment descend. Armstrong, "Tired nature's sweet restorer, balmy sleep," can- not be dispensed with. It introduces a most welcome vacation, both for the soul and the body. The exercises of the brain and the labours of the hands, are at once discontinued; so that the weary limbs repair their ex- hausted vigour, while the pensive thoughts drop their load of sorrows, and the busy ones rest from the fatigue of application. Most reviving cordial! equally beneficial to our animal and intellectual powers. Since sleep is so absolutely necessary, so inestimably valuable, observe what a fine apparatus Almighty Good- of Preserving Health. 115 ness has made to accommodate us with the balmy bless- ing. With how kind a precaution he removes whatever might obstruct its access, or impede its influence! He draws around us the curtain of darkness, which inclines us to a drowsy indolence, and conceals every object that might too strongly agitate the senses. He conveys peace into our apartments, and imposes silence on the whole creation. May we not discern in this gracious disposition of things, the tender cares of an affectionate Mothery who hushes every noise, and excludes every disturb- ance, where she has laid the child of her love to rest? 60, by sueh soothing circumstances, and gentle working opiates, He giveth to his beloved sleep. No sooner does the morning dawn, and day-light en- ter the room, than this strange enchantment vanishes. The man awakes, and finds himself possessed of all the valuable endowments which for several hours were sus- pended or lost. His sinews are braced, and fit for action. His senses are alert and keen. The romantic visionary heightens into the master of reason, and the frozen or benumbed affections melt into tenderness, and glow with benevolence. Without these enlivening recruits, how soon would the most robust constitution be wasted into a walking skeleton, and the most learned sage degene- rate into a hoary idiot. If sleep does not pay the accustomed visit, the whole frame of man will in a short time be thrown into disor- der; his appetite ceases, his spirits are dejected, and his mind, abridged of its slumbering visions, begin to adopt waking dreams. A thousand strange phantoms arise, which come and go without his will; these, which are transient in the beginning, at last take firm possession of the mind, which yields to their dominion, and after a long struggle runs into confirmed madness or death. But it is happy for mankind that this state of inquietude is seldom driven to an extreme. However, man finds it more difficult to procure sleep than any other animal, and some are obliged to court its approaches for seve- ral hours together, before they incline to rest. It is in vain that all light is excluded, that all sounds are re- 116 On Hygieine, or the art moved, that books of entertainment are read; the rest- less and busy mind still retains its former activity, and Reason, that wishes to lay down the reins, in spite of herself, is obliged to maintain them. This is strongly instanced by Shakspeare, in the soliloquy of King Henry. How many thousands of my poorest subjects Are at this hour asleep! O! gentle sleep, Nature's soft nurse, how have I frighted thee, That thou no more wilt weigh my eye-lids down, And steep my senses in forgetfulness? Why, rather, sleeps ly'st thou on smoky cribs, Upon uneasy pallets stretching thee, And hush'd with buzzing night-flies to thy slumbers; Than in the perfum'd chambers of the great, And lull'd with sounds of sweetest melody? O thou dull god, why ly'st thou with the vile In loathsome beds, and leav'st the kingly couch, A watch-case or a common larum bell? Wilt thou upon the high and giddy mast Seal up the ship-boy's eyes, and rock his brains In cradle of the wild imperious surge; And in the visitation of the winds. Who take the ruffian billows by the top, Curling their monstrous heads, and hanging them With deaf 'ning clamours in the slipp'ry shrouds, That, with the hurly, death itself awakes? Canst thou, O partial sleep! give thy repose To the wet sea-boy in an hour so rude; And, in the calmest, and most stillest night, With all appliances ^nd means to boot, of Preserving Health. 117 Deny it to a King? Then, happy low, lie down! Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown. Excess of sleep is not less prejudicial to health than the want of it. The whole body sinks gradually into a complete state of inactivity, the solid parts become re- laxed, the blood circulates slowly, and remains particu- larly long in the head; perspiration is disordered, the body increases in fat, and is rendered incapable of being the medium of mental exertion, the memory is enfee- bled, and the unhappy sleeper falls into a lethargic state, by which his sensibility is, in a great measure, de- stroyed. Sleeps immediately after supper, is apt to occasion the night mare, or a stagnation of the blood, which, by its pressure, produces the sensation or idea of this trou- blesome bed-fellow. It is principally the nervous, the debilitated, and those of an impaired digestion, who are visited by such terrific dreams. The proper duration of sleep, in youth and adults, is usually settled at six or seven hours; in children and the aged, from eight to nine hours. The more bodily weak- ness we feel, the more we may indulge in sleep; pro- vided it be refreshing. If people in a state of health are perfectly cheerful in mind and body, when they awake, this is the most certain criterion that they have slept sufficiently. Though weakly persons may have a dispo- sition to sleep during the day, they ought not to sleep long, since it tends to increase their languor and relax- ation. Whether to sleep after dinner be advisable, must be decided by a variety of concurrent circumstances; age, climate, and the like. However, a sleep after din- ner ought never to exceed a half, or one hour at most; and it is also much better sitting than lying horizontally; for, in the latter case, we are subject to determinations of the blood towards the head, and consequently to head-ach, and risk apoplexy. In the evening we should eat light food, and not retire to rest till two or three hours after supper. The mind ought to be serene and 118 On Hygieine^ or the art cheerful previous to going to rest, and we should then avoid gloomy thoughts; so that we may as much as possible guard against dreams, which always interfere with the refreshing influences of sleep. Dreams are frequently suggested to lis by bodily sen- sations, and from what we experience while awake. — Two persons who had been hunting together in the day, slept together the following night. One of them was re- newing the pursuit in his dream, and having run the whQle circle of the chace, came at last to the fall of the stag. Upon this, he cried out, with a determined ardor, /'// kill him, Pll kill him: and immediately felt for the knife which he carried in his pocket. His companion happening to be awake, and observing what passed, leaped from the bed. Being secure from danger, and the moon shining bright into the room, he stood to view the event; when, to his inexpressible surprise, the infatu- ated sportsman gave several deadly stabs in the very place, where a moment before the throat and life of his friend lay. This shows what scenes of horror we might commit amidst the mad sallies of sleep, if we were not prevented by our Heavenly Father, who interposes in our behalf, and defends us as with a shield. Although it is too great a vanity to give over much credit to our dreams, and to distress and distract our- selves about the signification and successes of them; yet they are not altogether unuseful to us. By dreams we may often discover much of our own natural incli- nations, and the constitution we are oft'. Besides this, there hath been so much of highest concernment re- vealed to some in their sleep, that it is enough to make us believe there is not altogether so much of delusion in dreams, as some men imagine. About three years before the gospel was first preach- ed in one of our villages, a certain woman had the fol- lowing dream; which in the event, appears remarkable. She thought she was walking up the hill above the town, near to a barn, now a meeting-house, when on a of Preserving Health. 119 sudden the clouds gathered darkness, and a dreadful storm of thunder and lightning came on. She looked back upon the village, and the tempest seemed still more horrible, for the blackness of darkness seemed to overshadow it. Terrified at this dreadful scene, she thought she met an acquaintance, with a small quantity of flax under his arm, spinning as he passed along, to whom she said, calling him by name, Surely, the day of judgment is come." He seemed but little concerned, and only said, " My thread is almost spun." The man was then in health, but died in a short time after. She went on till she came opposite to the door of the barn, and thought a strange man came out of it, and perceiv- ing her concern, offered her the New Testament, say- ing, " take, read, and pray over this, and it will teach you the way of salvation." Immediately she thought the clouds dispersed, and the darkness disappeared, and all was calm again. This dream made no impres- sion, except upon her memory; and, for some time after the place was first opened for worship there, she seemed determined never to attend; but, on the con- trary, persecuted those who did; till on a certain day, she was intreated to go ojice, merely out of curiosity. Soon after she was seated, the minister rose up in the pulpit, and proved be the person of whom she dreamed; the remembrance of which, together with the subject of his discourse, touched her to the very heart, and drew tears from her eyes. From this time, the Spirit of God seemed to work powerfully upon her soul, a renovating change took place in all her powers, and having gone through much persecution, she still appears a striking monument of saving mercy. Such is the power of Almighty grace. Astyages, the last king of the Medes, saw in his dream, a vine to spring forth from the womb of his only daughter, and at last to flourish and spread it- self, so that it seemed to overshadow all Asia, with its very fruitful branches. He consults with the soothsay- ers upon this dream; who answered him, " that of his 120 On Hygieiney or the art daughter should be born a son, who should seize on the empire of Asia, and divest him of his throne."—- Terrified at this prediction, he forthwith bestowed his daughter on Cambyses, a foreigner, and then an ob- scure person. When his daughter drew near to the time of her deliver}^ he sends for her to himself, that whatsoever should be born of her, should perish by his own command. The infant therefore is delivered to Harpagus to be slain; a man of known fidelity, and with whom he had long communicated his greatest secrets. But he fearing that, upon the death of A sty- ages, Mandane, his daughter, would succeed in the empire, since the king had no male issue, and that then he should be sure to be paid home for his obedience, doth not kill the royal babe, but delivers it to the king's chief herdsman, to be exposed to the wide world. It fell out that the wdfe of this man was newly brought to bed; and having heard of the whole affair, she earnestly im- portunes her husband to bring the child home to her that she might see it. The husband is overcome, goes to the wood where he had left him; he finds there, a bitch, that at once saved the babe, and kept oft' the beast and birds from it, and also suckled it herself. Affected with this miracle, and thus instructed by a brute in humanity, he takes upithe child, carries it to his wife; she sees and loves it: breeds him up, till he grew first to a man and then to a king. This was the great Cyrus, who overcame Astyages, his grandfather, and translated the sceptre from the Medes to the Per- sians. Sleep accompanied either with talking or walking, called somniloquism and somnambulism, is a transient paroxysm of delirium. When they are induced by an increase of stimuli, whether corporeal or mental, blood- letting, gende cathartics, vegetable diet, with moderate exercise, are the best remedies; but when they arise from a diminution of customary stimuli, a glass or two of wine, a draught of porter, or a dose of laudanum at bed-time, and a change of air, will generally succeed. of Preserving Health. 121 A remarkable case of somniloquism, or sleep with ail ability to pray and preach onco a day, is that of Miss Rachel Baker, of New York. These quotidian paroxysms as stated by the ingenious and learned pro- fessor Mitchill, recur with wonderful exactness, and, from long prevalence, are now become habitual. They invade her at early bed time, and a fit lasts usually about three quarters of an hour. A paroxysm has been known to end in thirty-five minutes, and to continue ninety-eight. It attacks her with a sort of uneasiness of the spasmodic kind, anxiety in respiration, and hysteric choking. There is, however, no chill, or even cold- ness. Nothing like the torpor of an ague. There is no febrile excitement, nor any sweating stage at the close. The transition from the waking state to that of sleep is very quick, frequendy in a quarter of an hour, or even less. After she retires from company in the par- lour, she is discovered to be occupied in praising God with a distinct and sonorous voice. She commences and ends with an address to the throne of grace; consisting of the proper topics of ac- knowledgment, submission, and reverence; of praise and thanksgiving, and of prayer for herself, her friends, the church, the nation, and for enemies, and the human race at large. Between these is her sermon, or exhor- tation. She begins without a text, and proceeds in an even course to the end; embellishing it sometimes with fine metaphors, vivid descriptioas, and poetical quo- tations. A trait in her case pecuHarly worthy of notice, is the difference between her sentiments on certain subjects in a state of sleep, and those she entertains when awake. For example; she maintains resolutely, that she is not asleep during her paroxysms, although it is evi- dent to every bystander that she is not awake. She contended, while in New York, that she was not from home, but at her ordanary residence in the town of Scipio. So likewise she prays and preaches when the fit presses her, though her conviction, in her seasons, of wakefulness, is, that individuals of h^ sex are pr©- 122 On Hygteirie, or the art hibited, by apostolic mandate, from acting as public teachers. These variations from the fact, in relation to her bodily condition, to her local situation, and to her mi- nisterial functions, are memorable features of the affec- tion under which she labours. While subjected to this peculiar action, she says that she knows not whether she is in the body or out of the body; yet declares she feels high enjoyment, and benevolent wishes that others could have the exquisite sensations which she experi- ences. Nevertheless, during her waking hours, she la- ments her malady as a sore affliction; and considers it as a visitation upon her to punish her sins, or to try her constancy and virtue. The celebrated Dr. Goldsmith, gives the following history of Cyrillo Padovano, the noted sleep walker. It has often been a question in the schools, whether it be preferable to be a king by day, and a beggar in our dreams by night, or inverting the question, a beg- gar by day, and a monarch while sleeping? It has been usually decided that the sleeping monarch is the hap- piest man, since he is supposed to enjoy all his hap- piness without contamination; while the monarch in reality feels the various inconveniencies that attend his station. However this may be, there are none, sure, more miserable than those who enjoy neither situation with any degree of comfort, but feel all the inconveni* encies of want and poverty by day, while they find a re- petition of their misery in a dream. Of this kind was the famous Cyrillo Padovano, of whom a long life has been written: a man, if I may so express it, of a dou- ble character, who acted a very different part by night from what he professed in the day. Cyrillo was a na- tive of Padua in Italy, a little brown complexioned man, and, while awake, remarkable for his probity, piety, and candour; but unfortunately for him, his dreams were of the strongest kind, and seemed to overturn the whole system of waking morality; for he every night of Preserving Health. 123 walked in his sleep, and upon such occasions was a thief, a robber, and plunderer of the dead. The first remarkable exploit we are told of Cyrillo was at the university, where he showed no great marks of assi- duity. Upon a certain occasion, his master set him a very long and difficult exercise, which Cyrillo found it impossible, as he supposed, to execute. Depressed with this opinion, and in certain expectation of being chastised the next day, he went to bed quite dejected and uneasy; but awakening in the morning, to his great surprise, he found his exercise completely and perfectly finished, lying upon his table, and, still more extraor- dinary, written in his own hand. This information he communicated to his master when he gave up his task, xvho being equally astonished with him, resolved to try him the next day, with a longer and more difficult task, and to watch him at night when he went to rest. Ac- cordingly Cyrillo was seen going to bed with great uneasiness, and was soon heard to sleep profoundly; but this did not continue long; for in about an hour after he lay down he got up, lighted his candle, and sat down to study, where he completed his task as before. A mind like Cyrillo's, not naturally very strong, and never at rest, began, when he arrived at manhood, to become more gloomy, solicitous, and desponding. In consequence of this turn of thinking, he resolved to leave the world, and turn Carthusian, which is the most rigorous of all the religious orders. Formed for a severe and abstemious life, he was here seen to set lessons of piety to the whole convent; and to show that he deserved the approbation, as well of his fellows in seclusion as of the whole order. But this good fame did not last long; for it was soon found that Cyrillo i walked by night, and, as we are told of the fabled Pe- nelope, undid in his sleep all the good actions for which he had been celebrated in the day. The first pranks he played were of a light nature, very little more than running about from chamber to chamber, and talking a little more loosely than became one oi 124 On Hygieme^ or the art his professed piety. As it is against the rules of the fra- ternity to confine any man by force to his cell, he was permitted in this manner to walk about; and though there was nothing very edifying in his sleeping con- versation, yet the convent were content to overlook and pity his infirmities. Being carefully observed on one of those occasions, the following circumstances offered. — One evening, having fallen asleep on his chair in his cell, he continued immoveable for about an hour; but then turning about in the attitude of a listener, he laughed heartily at what he thought he heard spoken; then snapping his fingers, to show he did not value the speaker, he turned towards the next person, and made a sign with his fingers as if he wanted snuff. Not being supplied, he seemed a little disconcerted; and pulled out his own box, in which there being nothing, he scraped the inside as if to find some. He next very carefully put up his box again, and looking round him with great suspicion, buttoned up the place of his frock where he kept it. In this manner he continued for some time immoveable; but without any seeming cause, flew into a most outrageous passion, in which he neither spared oaths nor execrations, w^hich so astonished and scandalized his brother friars, that they left him to exe- crate alone. But it would have been well if poor Cy- rillo had gone no farther, and driven his sleeping ex- travagances into guilt. One night he was perceived going very busily up to the altar, and in a little beau- fet beneath, to rummage with some degree of assiduity. It is supposed that he wished to steal the plate which was usually deposited there, but which had acciden- tally been sent off the day before to be cleaned. Disap- pointed in this, he seemed to be extremely enraged; but not caring to return to his cell empty-handed, he claps on one of the official silk vestments; and finding that he could carry still more, he put on one or two more over each other; and thus cumbrously accoutred, he stole off with a look of terror to his cell; there hiding his ill- got finery beneath his mattress, he laid himself down to continue his nap. Those who had w^ntched of Preserving Health, 125 him during this interval, were willing to see his man- ner of behaving the morning after. When Cyrillo awoke, he seemed at first a good deal surprised at the lump in the middle of his bed; and going to examine the cause, was still more astonished at the quantity of vestments that were bundled there. He went among his fellows of the convent, and inquired how they came to be placed there; and learning the mamier from them, nothing could exceed his penitence and contrition. His last and greatest project was considered of a still more heinous nature. A lady, who had long been a be- nefactor to the convent, happened to die, was desirous of being buried in t-ie cloister, in a vault which she had made for that purpose. It was there that she was laid, adorned with much finery, and a part of her own jewels, of which she had a great abundance. The solemnity at- tending her funeral was magnificent, the expenses great, and the sermon affecting. In all this pomp of griel, none seemed more affected than Cyrillo, or set an example of sincerer mortification. The society considered the depo- sition of their benefactress among them as a very great honour, and masses in abundance were promised for her safety. But what was the amazement of the whole convent the next day, when they found the vault in which she-was deposited, broke open, the body mangled; her fingers, on which were some rings, cut off; and all her finery carried away! Every person in the convent was shocked at such barbarity, and Cyrillo was one of the foremost in condemning the sacrilege. However, shortly after, on going to his cell, having occasion to examine under the mattress, he there found that he alone was the guiltless plunderer. The convent was soon made acquainted with his misfortune; and, at the general request of the fraternity, he was removed to another monastery, where the prior had a power, by right, of confining his conventicals. Thus debarred from doing mischici; Cyrillo led the remainder of his life in piety and peace. 126 On Hygieine^ or the art The Feather-beds, in which we usually sleep, arc, certainly not as healthy as mattresses in summer. But, as many individuals have not sufficient resolu- tion to use these, they ought to be particular in having their feather-beds frequently shaken and aired. Farther, it is highly improper to sleep in beds overloaded with clothes; they heat the blood more than is consistent with health, and produce an immoderate and enervating per- spiration, which still more weakens the organs already relaxed by sleep. The custom of sleeping with the cur- tains drawn close, is pernicious to health, because the copious exhalations, which then take place, cannot be properly dissipated, and are consequently re-absorbed. It is also very imprudent to cover the head with the bed- clothes. The old and abominable custom of warming the bed, likewise deserves to be condemned; as it has a di- rect tendency to produce debility. A spacious and lofty room, should always be chosen, if practicable, for a bed-chamber, and attention paid to the admission of fresh air, even during the night, in warm weather: Lastly, no candle or fire should be kept burning during the night in a bed-room. OF EVACUATIONS. By subtle fluids pour'd thro' subtle tubes The natural, vital, functions are perfornn'd; By these the stubborn aliments are tam'd. The toiling heart distributes life and streng'thi These the still crumbling- frame rebuild. — Armstrong The evacuations of the body, from its superfluous, impure, and noxious particles, are no less necessary than its nourishment. The same power which changes and assimilates our food and drink, likewise effects the due and timely evacuation of the secretions. It is an object of preserving Health, 127 of the first consequence, that nothing remain in the body which ought to be evacuated; and that nothing be eject- ed, which may be of use to its preservation. How many persons do we find who complain of bad heahh, not- withstanding every attention they pay to air, ahment, exercise, and sleep; while others enjoy a good state of health, though totally careless with regard to these par- ticulars, and all owing to a difference in the state of the evacuations. If these be disordered, the most rigor- ous observance of dietetic rules isi nsufiicient to insure our health; while, on the contrary, most of those rules may be neglected, for some time, without any injurious consequences, if the evacuations be regular. Nature re- moves not only noxious matter, or such as is in a state of corruption, but likewise the useful fluids, if they be- come superabundant; for instance, the milk, semen, and blood. In such cases, therefor^e, these must be consider- ed as objects of evacuation, equally natural and salu- tary. Nature expels all crude and acrid substances by tho^fe three grand emunctories, the kidneys, bowels, and skin, and accordingly as they are disordered, diseases of dif- ferent degrees of malignity and duration will necessarily ensue. Nature also frequently relieves herself by more unusual channels; such are the bleeding of the nose, in plethoric young men; the hemorrhoids, with which per- sons of a middle age are sometimes troubled; the various ulcers common to those whose fluids are in an impure state; the excretions of saliva, and the expectoration of others, &c. By a premature suppression of these trou- blesome, but salutary efforts of nature, great mischief may be produced to the individual. Many persons perspire much under the arm-pits; others in the hands or feet; others again are subject to eruptions in the face, or different parts of the body: such canals, however, if nature be once accustomed \o eject by them certain ill humours, cannot be suddenly stopped without considerable danger — cleanliness, in the strictest sense of the word, is almost the only safe remedy to counteract their fatal effects. 128 On Hygietne^ or the art OF THE PASSIONS. Passions, like aliments, though born to fight. Yet mix'cl and soflenM, in his work unite. Love, Hope, and Joy, fair Pleasure's smiling" train^. Hate, Fear, and Grief, the family of Pain; These mix'd with art, and in due bounds confin'd. Make, and maintain the balance of the mind. The lights and shades, whose well accorded strife. Gives all tlie strength and colour of our life. Pope. Passions are the active forces of the soul: They arc its highest powers, brought into movement and exertion. Like wind and fire, which are instrumental in carrying on many of the beneficent operations of nature, where they rise to undue violence, or deviate from their proper course, their path is marked with ruin; so are the pas- sions cither useful or destructive, according to their di- rection and degree. OF LOVE. Where friendship full exerts her softest power. Perfect esteem enliveiied by desire Ineffable, and sympatliy of soul; Thout^ht meeting thouglit, and will preventing will, With boundless conhdence: for nought but love Can answer love, and render bliss secure. -What is tl)e world to them. Its pomp, its pleasure, aiid its nonsense all! Who in each oHier clasp whatever fair High fancy forms, and lavish heart can wish; Something than beauty dearer, should they look Or on the mind, or mind-illumin'd face; Truth, goodness, honour, harmony, and love, The richest bounty of indulgent heaven, Meantime a smiling ofispring rises round. And mingles both their graces. By degrees, The human blossom blows; and every day. Soft as it rolls along, shows some new charm, The father's lustre, and the mother's bloom. 7'jiOMSoy. of Preserving Health, 129 Love, the most universal and grateful passion of the heart, is not only conducive to health, but contributes greatly to the happiness of every society in which it is introduced. A warm and reciprocal aflection between two virtuous lovers, may be considered the sweetest charm of life. But it is only among the virtuous and no- ble spirits that you are to look for cordial and lasting love. This marriage of souls can never exist long among the vicious. Love arises from a desire of what is beautiful and fair, and is defined to be an action of the mind, desiring that which is good. No one loves before he is delighted with the object, let it be what it will, by which means it becomes pleasing in our eyes, and begets a value and esteem in our affections. This amiable passion in many respects is very wonderful and unaccountable; it is of such power in its operation; that it has often taken the diadem from kings and queens, and made them stoop to those of obscure birth and mean fortune. It wrests the sword out of the conqueror's hand, and makes him a captive to his slave. It has such a variety of snares to entangle the most wary, that few have at one time or other escaped them. Eginardus was secretary of state to Charlemagne, and having placed his affections much higher than his condition admitted, made love to one of his daughters, who, seeing this man of a brave spirit and a suitable grace, thought him not too low for her, seeing merit had so eminently raised him above his birth; she loved him, and gave him free access to her, so far as to suffer him to laugh and sport in her chamber on evenings, which ought to have been kept as a sanctuary where re- liques are preserved. It happened on a winter's night, Eginardus (ever hasty in his approaches, but negligent about returning) had somewhat too long continued his visit; and in the mean time a snow had fallen, which troubled them both; he feared to be betrayed by his feet, and the lady was unwilling that such prints should be found at her door. Being much perplexed, love. R 130 On Hygieine^ or the art which taketh the diadem of majesty from queens, made her do an act for her lover, very unusual for the daughter of one of the greatest men upon earth: she took the gentleman upon her shoulders, and carried him all the length of the court to his chamber, he never setting a foot to the ground, that so the next day no impression might be seen of his footing. It fell out that Charlemagne watched at his study this night, and hearing a noise, opened the window and perceived this pretty prank, at which he could not tell whether he were best to be angry or to laugh. The next day, in a great assembly of lords, and in the presence of his daughter and Eginardus, he asked what punishment that servant was worthy of, who made use of a king's daughter as of a mule, and caused himself to be carried on her shoulders in the midst of winter, through nighty snow, and all the sharpness of the season. Every one gave his opinion, and not one but condemned that inso- lent man to death. The princess and secretary changed colour, thinking nothing remained for them but to be flayed alive. But the emperor looking on his secretary with a smooth brow, said, " Eginardus, hadst thou loved the princess my daughter, thou oughtest to have come to her father, the disposer of her liberty; thou art wor- thy of death, but I give thee two lives at present; take thy fair portress in marriage, fear God, and love one another." Though the female be the weaker sex, yet some have so repaid the weakness of their nature by an incredible strength of affection, that they have oftentimes perform- ed as great things as we could expect from the courage and constancy of the most generous amongst men. — They have despised death, let it appear to them in what shape it would; and made all sorts of difficulties give way before the force of that invincible love, which seemed proud to show itself most strong, in the greatest extremity of their husbands. Arria, the wife of Cecinna Pastus, understanding that her husband was condemned to die, and that he was of Preserving Health, 131 permitted to choose the manner of his death, went to him, and having exhorted him to depart this life cou- rageously, and bidding him farewell, gave herself a stab into the breast with a knife, she had hid for that purpose under her clothes; then drawing the knife out of the wound, and reaching it to Pastus, she said, Vulnus quod feci, Paste, non dolet, sed quod tu facies:" The wound I have ^lade, Pectus, smarts not; hut that only which thou art about to give thyself,'*'' Whereupon Mar- tial wrote the following epigram: When Arria to her husband gave the knife, Which made the wound whereby she lost her life, " This wound, dear Paetus, grieves me not," quoth she, " But that which thou must give thyself grieves me." But speaking of the charm and force of virtuous love, our thoughts naturally turn to that brilliant display of it exhibited by lady Ackland. Lady Harriet Ackland had accompanied her husband to Canada in the beginning of the year 1776. In the course of that campaign she had traversed a vast extent of country, in different extremities of season, and with difficulties that an European traveller will not easily conceive, to attend, in a poor hut at Chamblu, upon his sick bed. In the opening of the campaign of 1777, she was restrained from offering herself to share the fatigue and hazard expected before Ticonderoga, by the posi- tive injunctions of her husband. The day after the con- quest of that place, he was badly wounded; and she crossed the Lake Champlain to join him. As soon as he recovered, lady Harriet proceeded to follow his for- tunes through the campaign; and at Fort Edward, or at the next camp, she acquired a two- wheel tumbril, which had been constructed by the artificers of the artillery, something similar to the carriage used for the mail upon the great roads of England. Major Ackland commanded the British grenadiers, which were attached to general On Hygieine, or the art Fraser's corps; and consequently were always the most advanced part of the army. Their situations were often so alert, that no person slept out of his clothes. In one of these predicaments, a tent, in which the major and lady Harriet were asleep, suddenly took fire. An orderly Serjeant of grenadiers, with great hazard of suffocation, dragged out the first person he caught hold of. It proved to be the major. It happened, that in the same instant, lady Harriet, unknowing what she did, and perhaps not perfectly awake, providentially made her escape, by creeping under the walls of the back part of the tent. The first object she saw, upon the recovery of her senses, was the major on the other side, and in the same instant again in the fire in search of her. The serjeant again saved him, but not without his being very severely burned in his face and different parts of the body. Every thing they had with them in the tent was consumed. This accident happened a little time before the army passed the Hudson River. It neither altered the reso- lution nor the cheerfulness of lady Harriet; and she con- tinued her progress, a partaker of the fatigues of the advanced corps. The next call upon her fortitude was of a different nature, and more distressful, as of longer suspense. On the march of the 13th, the grenadiers be- ing liable to action at every step, she had been directed by the major to follow the route of the artillery and baggage, which was not exposed. At the time the ac- tion began, she found herself near a small uninhabited hut, where she alighted. When the engagement was becoming general and bloody, the surgeons of the hos- pital took possession of the same place, as the most convenient for the first care of the wounded. Thus was this lady in hearing of one continued fire of cannon and musketry for four hours together, vv^ith the presumption, from the post of her husband at the head of the grena- diers, that he was in the most exposed part. She had three female companions, the baroness of Reidesel and the wives of two British officers, major Harnage, and lieutenant Reynell; but in the event, their presence serv- ed little for comfort. Major Harnage was soon brought of Preserving Health. 133 to the surgeons, very badly wounded; and, a little time after came intelligence that lieutenant Reynell was shot dead. Imagination will want no help to figure the state of the whole group. From this time to the 7th of Oc- tober, lady Harriet, with her usual serenity, stood pre- pared for new trials; and it was her lot that their severity increased with their numbers. She was again exposed to the hearing of the whole action, and, at last, received the shock of her individual misfortune mixed with the intelligence of the general calamity; the troops were de- feated, and major Ackland, desperately wounded, was taken prisoner. The day of the 8th was passed by lady Harriet and her companions in common anxiety; not a tent nor a shed being standing, except what belonged to the hospital, their refuge was among the wounded and dying. When the army was upon the point of moving, after the halt described, Ijreceived, says the officer who has recorded the events, a message from lady Harriet, submitting to my decision a proposal (and expressing an earnest solicitude to execute it, if not interfering with my designs) of passing to the camp of the enemy, and requesting general Gates' permission to attend her hus- band. Though I was ready to believe (for I had expe- rienced) that patience and fortitude, in a supreme degree, were to be found, as well as every other virtue, under the most tender forms, I was astonished at this proposal. After so long an agitation of the spirits, exhausted not only for want of rest, but absolutely want of food, drench- ed in rains for twelve hours together, that a woman should be capable of such an undertaking, as delivering herself to the enemy, probably in the night, and uncer- tain of what hands she might first fall into, appeared an effort above human nature. The assistance I was enabled to give was small indeed; I had not even a cup of wine to offer her; but I was told she had found from some kind and fortunate hand, a little rum and dirty water. All I could furnish to her was an open boat, and a fev/ lines, written upon dirty paper, to general Gates, recom- mending her to his protection. Mr. Brudnell, chaplain to the artillery, readily undertook to accompany her; and 134 - On Hygieiney or the art with one female servant, and the major's valct-de-cham- bre, (who had a ball which he had received in the last action then in his shoulder,) she rowed down the river to meet the enemy; but her distresses were not yet at an end. The night was advanced before the boat reach- ed the enemy's out-posts; and the sentinel would not let it pass, nor even come on shore. In vain Mr. Brudnell offered the flag of truce, and represented the state of the extraordinary passenger. The guard, apprehensive of treachery, and punctilious to their orders, threatened to fire into the boat if it stirred before day- light. Her anx- iety and suffering were thus protracted through seven or eight dark and cold hours, and her reflections upon that first reception could not give her very encourag- ing ideas of the treatment she was afterwards to expect. But it is due to justice to say, that she was received and accommodated by general Gates with all the humanity and respect that her rank, her merit, and fortune de- served. Happy they! the happiest of their kind, Whom gentler stars unite, and in one fate Their hearts, their fortunes, and their beings blend. 'Tis not the coarser tie of human laws Unnat'ral oft, and foreign to the mind, That binds their peace, but harmony itself Attuning all their passions into Love. Thomson. " It is this," says Lavater, which has sweetened every bitter of my life; this has alone supported me, when the sorrows of a wounded heart wanted vent. — When my best endeavours were rejected, when the sa- cred impulse of conscious truth was ridiculed, hissed at and despised, the tear of sorrow was ever wiped away by the gentle, tender, and affectionate address of a fe- male mind, wlio has an aspect like that of unpractised virginity, which felt, and was able to efface each emo- of Preserving Health, 135 tion, each passion in the most concealed feature of her husband's countenance, and by endearing means, with- out what the world would call beauty, always shone forth in countenance heavenly as an angel." Serene in virgin modesty she shines, And unobserved the glorious orb declines. Oh blest with temper, whose unclouded ray Can make to-morrow cheerful as to-day: She who ne'er answers till a husband cools, Or if she rules him, never shows she rules; Charms by accepting, by submitting sways, Yet has her humour most, when she obeys. Pope. How delightful that sentiment, which, even in advan- ced life, inspires a passion perhaps more profound than it excites even in youth; a passion which collects into the soul all that time has robbed from the senses, and stripping life, in its last stages, of all gloom, unsociabi- lity and indifference, secures us the happiness of meet- ing death in those arms which sustained our youth, and entwined us in the ardent embraces of. love. O the sweet powerful influences of love! It is this that unites the interests as well as the hearts of lovers, and gives to each the joys and felicities of the other. — And it is this which induces the delicate lady to forget better days, and to smile in poverty, and toil with the husband whom she loves. What charm then under Heaven can excel this noble passion? No pleasures are comparable to those that affect the heart, and there are none that aifect it with such exquisite delight, as loving and being beloved by a worthy object. Ask the husband who is blest with an amiable wife, and he will tell you that the most delicious feeling his heart ever ex- perienced were those of virtuous love. 136 On Hygieine, or the art Go gentle gales and bear my sighs along! The birds shall cease to tune their evening song; The winds to breathe, the waving woods to move, And streams to murmur, ere I cease to love. Pope. Love is a vice only in vicious hearts. Fire, though the purest of all substances, will yet emit unwholesome and noxious vapours when it is fed by tainted matter; so love, if it grows in a vicious mind, produces nothing but shameful desires and criminal designs, and is follow- ed with pain, vexation and misery. But let it rise in an upright heart, and be kindled by an object adorned with virtue, it is safe from censure. Sweet is the breath of morn, her rising sweet, With charm of earliest birds; pleasant the sun When first on this delightful land he spreads His orient beams, on herb, tree, fruit and flovv'r, Glist'ning with dew; fragrant the fertile earth After soft showers; and sweet the coming on Of grateful evening mild: then silent night With this her solemn bird; and this fair morn, And these the gems of heav'n, her starry train. But neither breath of morn, when she ascends With charm of earliest birds; nor herb, fruit, flow'r Glist'ning with dew; nor fragrance after show'rs; Nor grateful evening mild; nor silent night With this her solemn bird; nor walk by moon Or glittermg star-light, xvithout thee is sweet, MiLTOX. of Preserving Health, 137 In propitious love the heart beats with joy; vivacity cheers the countenance, the eye is brilliant, society is courted, and all the benevolent affections are indulged. But disappointed love, on the other hand, is extremely detrimental. It depresses the spirits, enfeebles digestion, takes away the appetite, banishes sleep, and not unfre- quently produces insanity. History aiTords many in- stances of mental derangement from disappointed love. The following affecting cases deserve to be mentioned. A German lady of great beauty and accomplishments, having married a Hessian officer who was ordered to America, and not being able to acquire any tidings of him in her own country, came over to England, Here, she could only learn the destiny of her husband from those ships which had either transported troops to the continent, or were bringing back the wounded. Day after day she wandered on the beach at Portsmouth, and hour after hour she wearied her eyes, bedewed with tears, in the vain expectation of seeing him. She was observed at the same spot, ere it was light, and watched each motion of the waves until the setting sun. — Then her haunted imagination presented him mangled with wounds, and the smallest gust of wind seemed to threat- en her with an eternal separation. After eight months spent in this anxious manner, she received the melan- choly pleasure, that a vessel bringing some wounded ^ Hessian officers was arrived. She kept at some distance, for fear of giving too great a shock to her husband's feelings, should he be among them. He was landed with others: she followed to the tavern. — When she entered the room, he burst into a flood of tears. A lady was sup- porting him in her arms. What words or painter could represent the tragedy that followed? He had married in America, and this person was also his wife. He entreated for ^'■pardon'''' — was past reproach, for in a few minutes after he sunk into the arms of death. The lady, whose melancholy history we are recording, rushed from the room, and leaving her clothes and money at her lodging, she wandered, she knew not whither, vowing, that she 138 On HygieinCy or the art would never enter house more, or trust man," She stopped at last near Bristol, and begged the refreshment of a little milk. There was something so attractive in her whole appearance, as soon produced her whatever she requested. She was young, and extremely beautiful; her manners graceful and elegant, and her countenance interesting to the last degree. She was alone, a stranger, and in extreme distress; she asked only for a little milkj, but uttered no complaint, and used no art to excite com- passion. Her dress and accent bore visible marks that she was a foreigner of superior birth. All the day she was seen wandering in search of a place to lay her wretched head; she scooped towards night a lodging for herself in an old hay stack. Multitudes soon flocked around her, in this new habitation, attracted by the nov- elty of the circumstance, her singular beauty, but, above all, the suddenness of her arrival. French and Italian were spoken to her, but she appeared not to understand these languages; however, when she was accosted in German, she evidently appeared confused; the emotion was too great to be suppressed, she uttered some faint exclamations in our tongue, and then, as if hurried into an imprudence, she attempted to be also without know- ledge of this language. Various conjectures were in- stantly formed, but what seemed passing strange, was, her acceptance of no food, except bread or milk, and that only from the hands of females. On the men she looked with anger and disdain, but sweedy smiled, as she accepted any present from the other sex. The neigh- bouring ladies remonstrated with her on the danger of $0 exposed a situation, but in vain; for neither prayers nor menaces could induce her to sleep in a house. Beneath a stack Louisa's dwelling rose, Here the fair maniac bore four winter's snows; Here long she shiver'd, stifF'ning in the blast, And lightnings round her head their horrors cast, Disheveird, lo! her beauteous tresses fly, And the wild glance now fills the staring eye, of Preserving Health. 139 The balls fierce glaring in their orbits move, Bright spheres, where beam'd the sparkling fires of love. It may gratify the reader to learn, that it has beeri ascertained since her death, that this fair sufferer was the natural daughter of the Emperor Francis of Ger- many. In W , a small village in Saxony, there lived a poor, but honest and upright curate, who for many years had enjoyed, without alloy, the tranquil pleasures of domestic happiness. He had a wife, and an only child, a daughter. Content in the sphere wherein they were placed, and unacquainted with the turbulent passions. of the fashionable world, their days flowed quietly on in an uniform course of undisturbed felicity. The mother and daughter took a joint care of all the domestic con- cerns, and strove, by every act of attention and love, to diminish the burthen which the duties of the good old man imposed on him. Harriet, this was the name of his daughter, was, in the strict sense of the word, the child after his own heart. He was unhappy if she was absent even for a few hours; she was, therefore, his constant attendant. She was about eighteen years old, but had not yet experienced the inquietudes of that passion, which often exhibits itself in very early life in the great world, and her principles and mode of thinking were too noble and good to inspire her parents with even the slightest apprehensions as to the wanderings of her heart. But hear her history. Far different from the condition of the Americans^ the Saxons are obliged, in time of peace, to receive the king's cavalry, which are quartered in differ- ent villages, where it is maintained at the expense of the poor peasantry. Most of the soldiers are riotous young men, who, by virtue of their profession and uniform, obtain entrance into the houses of all the peasantry, and even of the curates, to the great corruption of the inno- cent and virtuous manners of the country people. One of them, a handsome, but giddy young man, was quar- teerd at W , where he soon made the acquaintance 140 On Hygiehie^ or the art of the good old parson. The young soldier had more culture of mind than is usually met with in such a class of men. He pleased the curate, who often invited him to the parsonage, and listened with pleasure to the his- tories of his battles, and warlike achievements. The tender-hearted Harriet found great entertain- ment in the company of the young warrior, and like Othello's mistress, the story of his life, the battles^ sieges, fortunes that he had passed, the hair -breadth ^scapes, the moving accidents by flood and fields won her heart. Love had^aken possession of her bosom, before she was aware of its approach. She blushed when he took her by the hand, and was unhappy when he left lier. The soldier could not resist the beautiful girl, for his heart was formed for love; they therefore soon came to an explanation of their mutual passion, which, for the present, they agreed to conceal from their parents, for fear that prudential motives would cause them to oppose it. They bound themselves to each other, how- ever, by an oath, which, at the same time that it showed the strength of their aftcction, exhibited the most ro- mantic turn of mind. They promised to marry as soon as he could attain the rank of serjeant- major, and agreed that the one should destroy the other, who first failed in the engagement. Thus matters stood, when, contrary to the wishes of the lovers, a lawyer from a neighbour- ing tov/n applied to the father of Harriet for the hand of his daughter. He was well received, and his views promoted by the old people; but when his intention was declared to the unfortunate girl, she fell into the arms of her father, as if struck with lightning, and, on her recovery, wept bitterly, entreating them not to encou- rage the addresses of this new lover. Her parents, being ignorant of the true cause of her aversion, thought that time would soon overcome it, and therefore gave their solemn promise to the lawyer to second his wishes. Harriet, however, resisted every argument, and re- mained true to her promise; but her parents at last growing tired of her opposition, determined to employ their authority, which at last prevailed. The young sol. of Preserving Health. 141 dier soon received the intelligence, and instantly formed this desperate resolution, for without his lovely Harriet he could not live. A short time before the marriage-day, a dance was given in W , in honour of the pair. To this he resorted, unable any longer to resist the de- sire of seeing once more his beloved. He concealed himself among the spectators until he saw her dance; this roused him to a state of fury; he ran home, took a pair of loaded pistols, and waited until the party broke up. It was a dark night, but he discerned the unhappy bride intended, and her bridegroom, walking hand in hand. He stepped up to her, and in a lo^v voice, re- quested that she would indulge him with a moment's conversation. She disengaged her arm from that of the lawyer, intreated him to walk on, assuring him she would immediately return: but, alas! she was to return no more! A pistol was heard, and when her trembling friends reached the place, they found her weltering in blood, zX the feet of her murderer. ^' Now art thou mine again," cried the soldier, in tones of horrid jov, and fled, but not to escape. He delivered himself to the ofl[icers of justice, and begged to be instantly executed, which event, indeed, scon followed. Learn parents, from this story, the danger of inter- fering with your children's affections in so serious an affair as marriage: for as Shakspeare observes: Marriage is sure a matter of more worth Than to be subject for attorneyship; For what is wedlock forced, but a hell, An age of discord and continual strife? Whereas the contrary bringeth forth bliss, And is a pattern of celestial peace. The most dangerous effects of love is jealousy; that passion, in its nature terrible, even when it is not ex- cited by love, renders the soul frantic, when all the af- fections of the heart are combined with the most acute sentiments of self4ove. Love is not the only ingredient 142 On Ifygieine, or the art of jealousy, as it is of the regret we feel when we ceased to be loved. Jealousy inspires the thirst of vengeance; regret inspires only the wish to die! Jealousy is a more painful situation, because it is composed of conflicting sensations, and because it is discontented with itself. It repents of the past; it preys upon itself; and the pain it occasions, is supportable only when it sinks into melancholy. Bonaventur, sitting at a table, and looking earnestly upon a beautiful woman there present, was asked by her husband, why he so gazed? He answered, That he admired the excellency of the Creator by contemplating the beauty of the creature; and that if mortals were so amiable, how lovely should we be at the resurrection.'* This was an example, saith Boschier, that was rather to be admired than imitated; suitable to the golden age, and not this present iron age of the world, wherein jea- lousy may be compared to the Indian arrows, so enven- omed, that if they prick the skin it is very dangerous, but if they draw blood, it is irrecoverably death: the first motions that rise from this root of bitterness have their evil effects; but where the disease is improved, it em- poisons all our comforts, and throws us headlong into the most tragical resolutions. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, had a smack of this disease; for when he visited Abdera, and some other remote cities of Greece, he wrote to his friend Diony- sius to oversee his wife in his absence, although she lived in his house with her father and mother, who, he knew would have a care of her; yet that would not sa- tisfy his jealousy, he would have his especial friend Dio- nysius to dwell in his house with her all the time of his peregrination, and to observe her behaviour, how she carried herself in her husband's absence; for a woman had need to have an overseer," saith he, " to keep her honest; they are bad by nature, and lightly given, and if not curbed in time, as an unpruned tree, they will be full of wild branches." vf Preserving Health, 143 A rich man of Basil fell into a cruel jealousy of his wife, a virtuous person, upon this slight occasion: he had thrown off a pair of silk garters, because they were g^^own old, and, as he thought, no longer fit for his wear: his wife took them up, and in his presence gave them to a servant who chanced then to be present. The ser- vant thankfully received them, and fitted them to his legs. Upon which the jealous husband thought all that was ill of his wife, and the devil increasing his unjust suspicion, upon a Sunday, while the rest of his family were at church, he rushes upon his wife with his drawn sword, accuses her of adultery, and, without hearing her reply, immediately slew her. The murder was scarce committed, when, repenting of what he had done, he was seized with such extremity of sorrow, that he grew weary of his life. He therefore wrote down, *' that by the instigation of Satan, moved w'ith false suspicions, he had murdered his innocent wife;" and, having tied this note to Lis left arm, he threw himself headlong from the top of his house into the street, by which fall he died. The Marquis of Astorgas, of the family of Osorio,' indulged himself in an illicit intercourse with a most beautiful young woman. His wife, on being informed of his intrigue, went immediately to the house where her husband's mistress lived, and murdered her in the most cruel manner. She tore her heart from her bosom, and took it home, ordered it to be hashed and served up to her husband for dinner. After he had eaten of it, she asked him if it was good? and, on his answering yes, she said, she was not in the least surprised, for it was the heart of his mistress, whom he so dearly loved. At the same time, she drew from a cupboard, the bleeding head of his murdered favourite, and rolled it on the table, at which this unhap- py lover was sitting with his friends. His wife immediately departed, and took refuge in a convent, where she soon afterwards went mad with rage and jealousy. 144 0?i Hygieine^ or the art Earth has no rage like love to hatred turn'd, Nor hell a fury like a woman scorn'd. Dryden-. The power of beauty is universally acknowledj^ed; it hath been the object of love and admiration in all times and among all nations. But, alas! what is beauty with- out the graces of virtue! We soon see to the bottom of such shallow goods, and consequently must experience a decay of that admiration and affection which constitutes happiness in the first degree. But to no such mortifying disappointment is he liable, who bestows his love on an object in which are concentered all the charms of beauty and all the graces of virtue. In Italy there grows an herb; they call it the Basilisco: it is sweet-scented enough; but, withal, it hath this strange property, that being laid under a stone in a moist place, in a few days it produces a scorpion. Thus, though the woman, in her first creation, was intended as a help for man, the partner of his joys and cares, the sweet per- fume and relish of his days throughout his whole pil- grimage; yet there are some so far degenerated from their primitive institution, though otherwise of exterior beauty and perfection enough, that they have proved more intolerable than scorpions, not only tormenting the life, but hastening the death of their too indulgent husbands. The noble Pittacus, so famous for his valour, and as much renowned for his wisdom and justice, feasted upon a time certain of his friends, who were strangers. His wife coming in at the midst of the dinner, being angry at something else, overthrew the table, and tumbled down all the provision under foot. At which, when his guests were wonderfully abashed, Pittacus, turning to them, said, There is not one of us all but he hath his cross, and one thing or other wherewith to exercise his patience; and, for my own part, this is the only thing of Preserving Health. 145 that checketh my felicity; for were it not for this shrew, m} wife, 1 were the happiest man in the world: so that of me these verses may be verified: This man, who while he walks the street, Or public place, is happy thought, No sooner sets in house his feet, But woe is him, and nought for nought; His wife him rules, and that's a spight, She scolds, she fights, from noon to night.'' Joan, grandchild to Robert, King of Naples, suc- ceeded her grandfather in the kingdom of Naples and Sicily; a woman of beautiful person, and rare endow- ments of nature. She was first married to her cousin Andrew, a prince of royal extraction; and of a sweet and loving disposition; but he not being able to satisfy her wantonness, she errew weary of him, and caused him. to be strangled in the night, and then threw out his corpse into a garden, where it lay some days unburied. It is said, her husband on seeing her twisting a thick string of silk and silver, asked for what purpose she made it; she answered, to hang you in," which he then little believed; the rather, because those who intend such mischief, use not to speak of it before- hand; but it seems she was as good as her word. There is no vice whatever that is very easy to over- come; but that of the lust of the 'flesh seems to have a peculiar difficulty in the conquest of it. But, how much the more strong, therefore, the enemy is, and the more intimate and familiar he is with us, the more noble is the victory, and the conquest more glorious. Scipio had taken the city of New Carthage, where, besides the rest of the spoil, there were found a number of boys and girls, and the children of nobility: among the rest, one virgin was brought and presented to Scipio, whose marvellous beauty attracted the eyes of all men: T 146 On Hygieine, or the art it was supposed that this would be no unacceptable present to a young general. But as soon as he had looked upon her, " I would," said he, accept and en- joy this virgin, were I a private person, and not in such command as now I am: as it is, the republic keeps this mind of mine sufficiently employed; yet I receive her as a kind of plfdge, to be by me restored and returned, where reason and humanity shall direct." He then asked the young lady of what country she was, what her birth, and who her parents? By her he understood that she was a princess, and contracted to Luceius, a young prince of her nation. The general, therefore, sent both for him and her parents: and when come, setting the lady by him, spoke thus to htr spouse: As soon as the virgin was by my soldiers brought and presented to me, I with pleasure beheld the excellency of her form, and I praised the other accomplishments of her body and mind, for nature hath not brought us forth blind and al- together indifferent of such things: love can reach even this breast of mine, but then it must be an honest one, and such as the time and my affairs will permit; though, therefore, she is mine in the right of war, I am not de- sirous, in the midst of arms, to play away my time in amorous dalliances: nor, perhaps, would it be just to detain from a valiant person one that is already con- tracted to him. I have learned thus much from her; and have, therefore, sent for thee, that I might see thee, and that I, heaven is my witness, might deliver this virgin chaste as I found her, to thee. She hath lived with me in the same caution and reservedness as if she had been with her parents; nor was it a gift worthy either of my- self or thee, if either force or private fraud had made any diminution to her virtue. Receive her inviolate, and enjoy her; nor do I desire any other recompense than a cordial respect to Scipio and the Romans." The young prince was astonished for joy; the parents fell down at the feet of Scipio, and laying there a considerable weight of gold, offered it as her ransom; but he bid the young prince take it as a part of her dowry from himself, abcf^e that which her parents should give. Thus did he over- of Preserving Health, 147 come at once lust and covetousness; and by this one noble act of his, drew a great part of Spain to the side of the Romans; they striving with eagerness to be sub- ject to a person of so much virtue. A young Itahan nobleman fell in love with a duchess of singular beauty, but knew not hovv to make her sen- sible of it; at length chance gave him an opportunity beyond his expectations. One evening, as he returned from hawking, he passed through the fields of the lady in question, bordering on the palace. The duke, her husband, and she were walking together as the young lord came by. The duke, seeing his train, and what game they had been pursuing, asked him some ques- tions concerning their sport, and, being of a hospitable disposition, invited him into his palace to partake of a collation. He accepted the offer; and here commenced an acquaintance, which in time made way for an assig- nation between the duchess and him. Accordingly, he was let into the garden one night, and conducted pri- vately to her chamber, where she was beforehand ready to receive him. After some compliments; " my lord," said the duchess, *'you are obliged to my husband for this favour; who, as soon as you were gone from our house, the first time he saw you, gave you such com- mendations as made me conceive an immediate passion for you." And is this true, madam?" demanded the young nobleman, in astonishment; " then far be it from me to be so ungrateful to my friend." With that he re- sumed his garments, which he had begun to throw by, and instantly took his leave. Where shall we find one so generous and honest, so noble and divine, as that of Joseph, recorded in Holy Writ^ The same arguments which a base mind would have made to itself for perpetrating the evil, namely, free trust, full power, and immediate temptation, were, to this brave, this gallant man, the greatest motives for his forbearing it. He could do it with impunity from man; but he could not affront and presumptuously of- fend a just, a holy, and an avenging God. 148 On Hygieine, or the art Virtue, the strength and btauty of the soul, It pleases, and it lasts; — a happmess That even above the smiles and frowns of fate Exalts great nature's favourite; — a -wealth That ne'er encumbers, nor to baser hands Can be transferred; it is the only good Man justly boasts of, or can call his own. Armstrong. There was a maid called Lucia, who lived a virgin among many others, and whose exquisite beauty was sought after with vehement solicitation, by a powerful lord, who, having command and authority in his hands, sent messengers to seize on this innocent lamb; and whilst they were at the gate menacing to kill her, and set all on fire, if this poor creature was not delivered into their hands, the maid came forth — What is it," said she, you demand? I beseech you to tell me whether there be any thing in my power to purchase your lord and master's love?" Yes," answered ihey^, your eyes have gained him; nor ever can he have rest till he enjoy them"" "well, go then," said she, only suffer me to go to my chamber and 1 will give you sa- tisfaction in this point." The poor maid, seeing her si- tuation, she spoke to her eyes and said: how, my eyes, are you then guilty? I know the reservedness and simplicity of your glances; nor have I, in that kind, any remorse of conscience. But, howsoever it be, you ap- pear to me not innocent enough, since you have kmdied fire in the heart of a man wh.ose hatred I have ever more esteemed than his love: quench with your blood the flames you have raised." Whereupon, with a hand pi- ously cruel, she digged out her eyes, and sent the torn reliques, cmbruedin her blood, to him who sought her, adding, behold what you love." He, seized with hor- ror, hastened to hide himself in a monastery, where he remained the rest of his days. of Preserving Health. 149 Of all the characters under the sun, there is none so degradiiii^ to human nature as a false lover or libertine. To obtain his ends, he must become a liar, a reprobate and a villain. It is reported of the cruel beast called the Hyaena, that by his exact imitation of the human voice, he draws the unwary shepherds out of their cottages, till he hath brought them within the compass of his power, and then he falls upon them with all his fierceness, and devours them. Thus it is with these brutish men, who, by pre- tences of love and virtue, gain the hearts of poor inno- cent females, till they become either masters of their fortune or honour; which done, death itself is more de- sirable than that bitterness and indignity, with which they treat them. A Frenchman of note, whose name is Villars, marri- ed a young, rich, and amiable lady; but having been formerly addicted to converse with lewd women, as soon as the honeymoon was over, gave himself up to the same vicious courses, slighted and abused his wife with words and blows; forsook her bed; took away her clothes, her rings and jewels, and gave them to his mis- tresses; telling his wife, *' He did not marry her but for her fortune, which he would spend upon these women, because he loved them, for he never had any kindness for her." All these unkindnesses his wife bore with in- finite patience, in hopes to reclaim him by her modest and humble behaviour. At length, finding he had almost consumed his whole estate, he brought two of these women home to save charges, and made his wife wait upon them at table, which she did without discovering any trouble or discontent at this more than servile em- ployment. But the more she sought to please them, the more insolent were they, insomuch that one of them commanding her to fetch some water to wash her hands and to kneel while she held the bason; the lady refusing so mean a submission, the strumpet threatened to beat her; whereupon the lady taking courage, threw the wa- ter in the hussy's face; wdio crying out, and the husband 150 On Hygieine^ or the art coming to inquire into the reason of it, she cried out, Oh, your wife has killed me, she has killed me, re- venge my blood!" and then counterfeiting death, fell iipon the ground as if she had been really dead; which the husband believing, run his wife through the body with his sword, of which wound she died immediately; upon this the vile strumpet jumped up and kissed the murderer. However they did not escape the vengeance of Heaven, for they were shortly after apprehended, and sentenced to be hanged; Villars as principal, and his two mistresses as accessaries, and were executed accordingly. One John Williams married a poor idiot for the sake of a sum of money that had been left her; which when he was possessed of, he determined to shorten the life of the unhappy wife by a series of cruelty, that so he might be quit of a connexion which interest alone had made him contract. For this purpose he drove a strong staple into the wall of a closet in the room where they lodged, and to this staple he daily tied her with a rope, which he drew round her middle, her hands being fas- tened behind with iron handcuffs; and the little food he allowed her was laid on a shelf just within the reach of her mouth, so that if she dropped any part of it she could not recover it again. And fearing lest this treatment might not despatch her soon enough, the barbarous vil- lain augmented his cruelty by contracting the rope that confined her, till her toes only reached the ground; and if his daughter attempted to alleviate her misery by set- ting a stool for her to stand on, he used to heather un- mercifully. By this treatment the poor creature became a frightful skeleton, and she was so far reduced that her stomach loathed food; which, when he perceived, the artful villain released her, loosed her hand, set meat before her, and invited her to eat with the most endear- ing words, with a view to skreen himself from justice; but in two days after she died. For this barbarous mur- der he was executed in Moorfields, amidst a numerous populace, whose resentment the villain fearing would of preserving Health. 151 urge them to tear him to pieces, made him earnest with the hangman to despatch him. The female who yields her virtue to the brutal desires of a false lover, degrades herself in his estimation, by the infidelity she commits, and his heart is cured by the contempt for her which he feels. Pride, however, in the case of such a woman, aggravates the sufferings which her love inflicts. In the e\ es of a modestly bred woman, the surrender of so precious a jewel inspires a remorse and shame, when she ceases to be beloved, that consti- tutes the bitterest woe of life. It is surely matter of wonder, that these destroyers of innocence, though dead to all the higher sentiments of virtue and honour, are not restrained by compassion and humanity. To bring sorrow, confusion, and infamy into a family; to wound the heart of a tender parent, and stain the life of a poor deluded young woman, with a dishonour which never can be wiped off, are circum- stances, one would think, sufficient to check the most violent passion, in a heart the least susceptible of feel- ing- Let the unhappy fate of Monimia be ever impressed on the minds of my young female readers. she flourished Grew sxveet to sense, and lovely to the eye^ Till at the last, the cruel spoiler came, Cropt this fair rose, and rifled all its sweetiiess, Then threw it, like a loathsome xveed, axuay. Otway. She was the lovely and accomplished daughter of an aged and worthy country squire. A young officer, a man of birth and fashion, who lived in the neighbourhood, took advantage of the unwary disposition of this inno» cent girl, and afterwards cruelly deserted her. She thus addresses him: 152 On Hygieine, or the art Since language never can express my pain, How can I hope to move when 1 complain? Yet such is woman's frenzy in distress, We love to plead, tho' hopeless of redress. Perhaps, affecting ignorance, thou'lt say, From whence these lines — whose message to convey? If then you force me to avow shame. Behold them prefaced with Monimia's name. Lost to the world, abandoned and forlorn, Expos'd to infamy, reproach and scorn, To joy and comfort lost, and all for you, And lost, perhaps, to your remembrance too; How hard my lot! what refuge can I try, Weary of life, and yet afraid to die! To these reflections each slow weary day, And each revolving night, a constant prey, Think what I suffer, nor ungentle hear What madness dictates in my fond despair. Grudge not this short relief — too fast it flies! Nor chide that weakness I myself despise. For sure one moment is at last her due Who sacrificed her all, for love and you. If not of rock thy flinty heart is made. Or tigers nursed thee in the desert shade. These lines will sure thy cold compassion move, Which ask but audience to an injured Love. Tho' no return my warmer wishes find. Be to the wretch, tho' not the mistress, kind; Without restraint, habituate to range The paths of pleasure, can I bear the change? of Preserving Healths 1 53 Doom'd from the world unwilling to retire, In bloom of life, and warm with young desire; In lieu of roofs with princely splendor gay, Condemn'd in distant wilds to drag the day; Yes, yes, this change I could unsighing see, For none I mourn, but what I find in thee: There centre all my woes; thy heart estrang'd, I mourn my lover, not my fortune chang'd; Blest with thy presence, I could all forget, Nor gilded palaces in huts regret; But exil'd thence, superfluous is the rest, Each place the same, my hell is in my breast; To pleasure dead, and living but to pain, My only sense to suffer and complain. As all my wrongs distressful I repeat, Say, can thy pulse with equal cadence beat? Can'st thou know peace—is conscience mute within? That upright delegate for secret sin; Is nature so extinguish'd in thy heart, That not one spark remains to take my part? Not one repentant throb, one grateful sigh? Thy breast unruffled, and unwet thine eye? Thou cool betrayer, temperate in ill ! Thou, nor remorse, nor thought humane can'st feel: Born in an age, when guilt and fraud prevail, When justice sleeps, andint'rest holds the scale; Thy loose companions, a licentious crew, Most to each other, all to us, untrue; Who, indigent of honour as of shame, Glory in crimes, which others blush to name. U 154 On Hygieine^ or the art These are the leaders of thy blinded youth, These vile seducers laugh thee out of truth; Whose scurril jests all solemn ties profane, Or Friendship's band, or Hymen's sacred chain. With such you lose the day in false delight, In lewd debauch you revel out the night. (O fatal commerce to Monimia's peace,) Their arguments convince because they please; Whilst sophistry for reason they admit, And wander dazzled in the glare of wit. Oft I revolve, in this distracted mind. Each word, each look, that spoke my charmer kind". But oh! how dear their mem'ry I repay! What pleasures past, can present cares allay? Of all I love for ever dispossess'd; Ah! what avails, to think I once was bless'dl Thy fatal letters, O immoral youth, Those perjur'd pledges of fictitious truth^ Dear as they v*'ere, no second joy afford, My cred'lous heart once leap'd at evVy word, My glowing bosom throbb'd with thick-heav'd sighs, And floods of rapture rush'd into mine eyes: When now repeated (for the theft was vain. Each treasured syllable my thoughts retain,) Far other passions rule, and different care, My joys are grief, my transports are despair. Why dost thou mock the ties of constant love? But half its joys the faithless ever prove; They only taste the pleasures they receive, When, sure, the noblest is in those we give. of Presei'ving Health, 155 Acceptance is the heaven which mortals know, But 'tis the joy of heaven to bestow. Oh! emulate, my love, that task divine, Be thou that angel, and that heaven be mine. Yes, yet relent, yet intercept my fate; Alas! I rave, and sue for new deceit. First vital warmth shall from the grave return, Ere love extinguish'd, with fresh ardor burn; Oh! that I dar'd to act a Roman part, And stab thy image in this faithful heart; There riveted to live, secure you reign, Ah! cruel inmate, sharp'ning every pain; While, coward- like, irresolute, I wait Time's tardy aid, nor dare to rush on fate; Perhaps may linger on life's latest stage, Survive thy cruelties, and fall by age; No — Grief shall spread my sails, and speed me d^er^ [Despair my pilot) to that quiet shore, Where I can trust, and thou betray no more, 'Tis past — 'tis done — what gleam of hope behind, When I can ne'er be false, nor thou be kind? Why then this care — 'tis weak — 'tis v^^W'—farexvelU At that last word w^hat agonies I feel! \ faint — \d:Le — remember I was true — *Tis ?ill I ask — eternally — adieu. 156 On Hygieine^ or the art OF HOPE. " Hope springs iinmortal in the hunnan breast, Man never is, but always to be blest. O Happiness, our being's end and aim, Good, Pleasure, Ease, Content, what'erthy name: That something still, which prompts the eternal sigh. For which we bear to foe, or dare to J/e." Pope. Hope is the anticipation of joy, or the presentiment of an expected good. It is attended with all the favour- able effects of a fortunate event, without possessing any of its piiysical advantages; because the expectation of happiness does not affect us so excessively as its enjoy- ment. Besides, it is not liable to those interruptions, from which no human pleasure is exempt; it is employ- ed principally with ideal or imaginary objects, and ge- nerally keeps within the bounds of moderation; lastly, the sense of happiness contained in hope, far exceeds the satisfaction received from immediate enjoyment, consequently it has a more beneficial influence on health, than good fortune realized. Although hope is in itself only ideal, and presents its flattering images to the fancy in a borrowed light, yet it is nevertheless the only ge- nuine source of human happiness. With thee, sweet Hope! resides the Heav'nly light, That pours remotest rapture on the sight: Thine is the charm of life's bewilder'd way, That calls each slumb'ring passion into play. Wak'd by thy touch, I see the sister band, On tiptoe v/atching, start at thy command, And fly where'er thy mandate bids them steer, To Pleasure's path, or Glory's bright career. Campbell. of Preserving Health, 157 The poet Hesiod tells us, that the miseries and cala- mities of mankind were included in a great tun; that Pandora took olF the lid of it, sent them abroad, and they spread themselves in great quantities over all lands and seas; but at this time, Hope only did remain behind, and flew not all abroad, But underneath the utmost brim and ledge it still abode. And this is that which is our principal antidote, which keeps our hearts from bursting under the pressure of evils; and that flattering mirror that gives us a prospect of greater good. Hence some call it the manna from heaven, that comforts us in all extremities; others, the pleasant and honest flatterer, that caresses the unhappy with expectation of happiness in the bosom of futurity. When all other things fail us, Hope stands by us to the last. Hope gives freedom to the captive, when chained to the oar; health to the sick, while death grins in his face; victory to the defeated; and wealth to the beggar, while he is craving alms. Primeval Hope, the Aonian Muses say, When Man and Nature mourn'd their fiirst decay; When every form of death, aiid every woe, Shot from malignant stars to earth below; When Murder bared her arm, and rampant War Yok'd the red dragons of her iron car; When Peace and Mercy, banish'd from the plain, Sprung on the viewless winds to Heav'n again; All, all forsook the friendless guilty mind, But Hope, the charmer, lingered still behind. Campbell. A very notable case of the influence of Hope on the human body, and its maladies, i§ recorded in the history 158 On Hygieiney or the art of the long siege of Breda, in 1625, by a physician, eye-witness to the fact. The garrison, depressed by fatigue, poisoned by bad provisions, and dying rapidly of the scurvy, were on the point of giving up the town. The Prince of Orange, anxious to prevent its loss, contrived letters to the gar* rison, promising them speedy assistance. These were accompanied with newly discovered medicines against the scurvy, of a most extraordinary price, but still more extraordinary efficacy. To each physician were given three small vials, filled with drops of such sovereign power, that four drops were sufficient to impart a heaU ing virtue to a gallon of liquor. We now, says the phy- sician, who was one of the eye-witnesses of this curious fact, began to display our wonder-working balsams. Nor were even the commanders let into the secret of the cheat upon the soldiers. All who had the scurvy crowded around us to take their doses. Cheerfulness again appears in every countenance, and the universal faith prevails in the sovereign virtues of the remedy. The effect of this delusion was truly astonishing. Many who had not moved their limbs for a month before, were seen walking the streets erect and perfectly cured. Ma- ny, who declared they had been rendered worse by all former remedies, recovered in a few days, to their inex- pressible joy, and the no less general surprise, by their taking, what we affirmed to be, their gracious Prince'^s cure, " This curious relation," adds Dr. Lind, " would hardly perhaps gain credit, were it not in every respect consonant to the most accurate observations, and best attested description of that disease. It is given us by an eye witness, an author of great candour and veracity, who, as he informs us, wrote down every day the state of his patients, and seems more to be surprised with their unexpected recovery, than he probably would have been, had he been acquainted with the nature of this surprising malady. An important lesson in physic," adds this excellent writer, *4s hence to be learned; the won- of Preserving Healths 159 derful influence of the passions of the mind on the state and disorders of the body. This is too often overlooked in the cure of disorders, many of which are sometimes attempted by the sole mechanical operation of drugs, without calling into our assistance the strong powers of the imagination, or the concurring influences of the soul. Hence it is, that the same remedy will not always pro- duce the same effect, even in the same person; and that common remedies often prove wonderfully successful in the hands of men not of the faculty, which do not answer the purpose in a timorous and distrustful patient. A certain Rhodian, for his over freedom in speech, was cast by a tyrant into a 'cage, and there kept as a wild beast, to his great pain and shame: for his hands were cut off*, his nostrils slit, and his face deformed by several wounds upon it. In this extremity, he was ad- vised by some of his friends to shorten his life by a vo- luntary abstinence from all food. But he rejected their counsel with great indignation; and told them, While a man is alive, all things are to be hoped for by him.'* Cease, every joy, to glimmer on my mind, But leave — oh! leave the light of Hope behind! What, though my winged hours of bliss have beenj Like angel-visits, few and far between! Her musing mood shall every pang appease, And charm — when pleasures lose the power to please! 160 On Hygieine, or the art OF JOY. Pleasures are ever in our hands or eyes; And when, in act, they cease, in prospect, rise» Present to grasp, and future still to find. The whole employ of body and of mind. All spread their charrtis, but charm not all alike j On diff'rent senses, diff 'rent objects strike; Hence diff'rent Passions more or less inflame. As strong or weak, the organs of the frame; And hence one master passion in the breast. Like Aaron's serpent, swallows up the rest. Pope. Joy is that state of mind, in which it feels extraordi-' nary pleasure. The activity of the whole machine is en^ livened; the action of the heart and arteries is increased; the cirfiulation of all the fluids is more vigorous and uu - form; it prevents the formation of disease, and facilitates the cure of such as are formed* Pope Julius the second, receiving information of aux- iliary forces that were coming to him from the king of Spain, to make an end of the Farrarian war, was so ex- ceedingly rejoiced at it, that he was prese ntly relieved of a fever, with which he was afflicted for some time. Askew, a wealthy and facetious farmer of Cornwall, was afflicted with a most alarming imposthumation, of which he appeared to be on the very point of suftbca- tion. Concluding, from his agonies, that he had but a few moments to live, his servants, an ungrateful crew to such' a generous a master, began to plunder. One seized his gold watch, another laid violent hands on his plate; and the third, more daring still, broke his bureau, and began to finger his gold. A monkey, who was pre- sent, seeing what they were about, and thinking he might as well take a hand in the game, laid hold of his master's wig, and with his gold-headed cane, made him of Preserving Health, 161 a low bow, and began to walk about the room as a man of great con:5equence. The stately steppings and self- assumed dignity of Jacko, so tickled the fancy of Mr. Askew, as to excite a most immoderate fit of laughter. The imposthumation burst, the purulent matter was thrown up — and, to the eternal confusion of his ser- vants, Mr. Askew perfectly recovered his health. Ptolemeus Philadelphus had received the sacred vo- lumes of the law of God, newly brought out of Judea; and. while he held them with great reverence in his hands, praising God upon that account, all that were present made a joyful exclamation; and the king him- self was so overjoyed, that he broke out into tears. Na- ture having so ordered it, that the expression of sorrow should also be the follower of extraordinary joys. The Egyptian Temples, they say, were exceedingly beautiful and fair in the frontispiece, but foul and filthy inwardly. So this affection of joy, which seems out- wardly so pleasant upon us, and which furnishes our hearts with much pleasure and delight, proves fatal to us in the excess of it, and serves us much after the man- ner of ivy, which seemeth to adorn the tree whereunto it cleaveth, but indeed sucketh out and stealeth away the sap thereof. A gentleman, at a sermon, saw a woman fall from her seat half asleep; at which most of the congregation laughed; but he was so much moved, that for three days he did nothing but laugh, by which means he was much weakened, and continued in an infirm state of body for a long time after. Cardanus, in the fifth book of Wisdom, gives an in- stance of the danger of this passion when it exceeds its due bounds, in a smith of Milan, a fellow citizen of his, who being highly commended for refining an instru- ment called the colea, heretofore made use of by Archi- medes, out of extreme joy, ran mad. X 162 On Hygieiiie, or the art Philemon, a comic poet, beholding an ass eating some figs that a boy had laid dov\'n; when the boy returned, ** go now," said he, " and fetch the ass some drink;" the old man was so tickled with the fancy of his own jest, that he died laughing. In the same manner, and much upon the same occasion, died Chrysippus. The same is related of one of the Popes, who, when he was ill, saw a monkey at his bed side put on the holy tiara. Philippides, a comic poet in Athens, being arrived to a great age, when in the contest and trial of poets, he, beyond all his hopes, had the victory adjudged to him, and not able to bear the great joy it excited, he sud- denly fell down and died. Captain Coucy, a gallant gentleman of ancient ex- traction, in France, and governor of Coucy castle, fell in love with a young lady, and courted her. There was reciprocal love between them; but her parents under- standing it, by way of prevention, shuffled up a forced match between her and one Mr. Fayel, who was heir to a great estate. Hereupon, captain Coucy quitted France in discontent, and went to the wars in Hungary against the Turks, where he received a mortal wound near Bu- da. Being carried to his lodgings, he languished four days: but a little before his death, he spoke to an ancient servant, of whose fidelity and trust he had had ample ex- perience, and told him he had a great business to trust him with, which he conjured him to perform; which was, that after his death, he should cause his body to be opened, take out his heart, put it into an earthen pot, and bake it to powder; then put the powder into a hand- some box, with the bracelet of hair he had long worn about his left wrist, which was a lock of Madame Fayel's hair, and put it amongst the powder, together with a little note which he had written with his own blood: and after he had given him the rites of burial, to make all the speed he could to France, and dehver the of Preserving Health. 163 box to Madame Fa\ el. The old servant did as his master conimandtd him, and so went to France; and coming one day to Monsieur Fayel's house, he suddenly met him with one of his servants; who, knowing him to be captain Coucy's servant, examined him; and finding him timorous and to faultfr in his speech, he searched him, and found the said box in his pocket, with the note which expressed what was in it; then he dismissed the bearer, with menaces that he should come no more thi- ther. Monsieur Fayel going in, sent for his cook, and deli- vered him the powder, charging him to make a well relish- ed dish of it, without losing a jot, for it was a very costly thing; and commanded- him to bring it in himseii after the last course at supper. The cook bringing in his dish accordingly. Monsieur Fayel commanded all to avoid the room, and began a serious discourse with his w^ife; " That ever since he had married her, he observed she was always melancholy, and he feared she was inclining to a consumption, therefore, he had provided a very pre- cious cordial, which he was well assured would cure her," and for that reason obliged her to eat up the whole dish. She afterwards much importuning him to know what it was, he told her at last, she had eaten Coucy's heart;" and so drew the box out of his pocket and show- ed her the note and bracelet. In a sudden exultation of joy, she with a deep-fetched sigh, said, This is a pre- cious cordial indeed;" and so Bcked the dish, saying, " It is so precious, that it is a pity ever to eat any thing after it." Whereupon she went to bed, and in the morn- ing was found dead. This sad story is painted in Coucy castle, and remains fresh to this day. When the Romans were overcome by Hannibal at the - battle of Thrasymene, and the news of that calamity was brought to them, the anxious and solicitous multi- tude flocked to the gates, as well women as men, to hear what became of their friends: various were the af- fections of inquirers according as^h&y were certified of the life or death of their relations; But both the sorrow and joy of the wonien exceeded that of the men. Here it 164 On Hygieine^ or the art was that one woman meeting at the gate with her son in safety, whom she had given up for dead, died in his arms as she embraced him. Another hearing, though falsely, that her son was slain, kept herself within doors in great sorrow and perplexity: when unexpectedly she saw him come in; this first sight of him caused such excessive joy as to deprive her immediately of life. If we have anticipated any joyful events, the body is gradually prepared to undergo the emotions connected with it. For this reason we ought to fortify ourselves with the necessary share of firmness, to meet joyful as well as disastrous tidings. Habitual joy arising from the perfection, rectitude, and due subordination of our faculties; and their lively exercise on the most worthy object, as the love of God, and the practice of virtue; constitutes mental or rational happiness. A soul in commerce with her God, is heav'n; Feels not the tumults and the shocks of life; The whirls of passions and the strokes of heart. A deity believed, is joy begun; A deity adored, is joy advanced; A deity beloved, is Joy matured. Young. of Preserving Health. 165 OF GRIEF. It is the great art of life to manage well The restless mind. For ever on pursuit Of knowledge bent, it starves the grosser powers Qviite unemployed, against its own repose It turns its fatal edge, and sharper pangs Than what the body knows, embitter life. Chiefly where solitude, the nurse of care. To sickly musing gives the pensive mind, There madness enters; and the dim-eyed fiend. Sour melancholy, night and day provokes Her own eternal wound. Armstrong. Grief, like a poison, corrodes the powers of the mind and body; it enfeebles the whole nervous system; the heart beats slower; the circulation of the blood, and other fluids, become more inert; the appetite and diges- tion become vitiated, and thus arise obstructions and other distressing complaints. Tears are the anodynes of grief, and ought, therefore, not to be restrained. They have a tendency to prevent the danger to be apprehend- ed from grief, by diminishing the spasmodic motions in the breast and head; and by restoring regularity in respiration, as well as in the circulation of the blood. A \yidow lady was left in narrow circumstances with a boy and girl, two beautiful and lively children, the one six, and the other seven years of age; as her cir- cumstances allowed her to keep but one maid servant, these two children were the sole attention, employment, and consolation of her life; she fed them, dressed them, slept with them, and taught them herself: they were both snatched from her by the gangrenous sore throat, in one week; so that she lost at once all that employed her, as well as all that was dear to her. For the first three or four days after their death, when any friend vi- 166 On Hygieine, or the art sited her, she sat upright with her eyes M^ide open, with- out shedding tears, and affected to speak of indifferent things. Afterwards she began to weep much, and for some weeks talked to her friends of nothing else but her dear children; but did not for many years, even to her dying hour, get quite over a gloom which was left upon her countenance. When any cause of deep grief is presented to the mind, it frequently gains such a force as almost totally to exclude all thoughts, except those that are connect- ed with it. Hence the whole imagination is by degrees obscured, and the most usual consequences of it are the deepest melancholy, succeeded by insanity— and sometimes that speedier dissolution, " a broken heart." A rich Bishop of Salisbury being spoiled of his goods and thrown out of his casde, vv^as so emerged in grief, that he ran perfectly mad, and remained in that situa- tion for several years until his death. Governor Alvarado married Lady Beatrice, and he dying, his wife abandoned herself to all the excesses of grief; and not only dressed her house in black, and ab- stained from meat and sleep, but in a mad impiety said, " God could now do her no greater evil." Soon after happened an extraordinary inundation of waters, which on a sudden assailed the Governor's house, and caused this impotent Lady now to bethink herself of her devo- tion, and betake her to the Chapel, with several of her maids; where leaping on the altar and clasping about an image, the force of the water carried away the Chapel, and she with her maids were drowned. Charles, Duke of Burgundy, being discomfited at the battle of Nancy, passing over a river, was over- thrown by his horse, and in that state was assaulted by a gentleman, of whom he craved quarters; but the gen- tleman being deaf, slew him immediately: yet after- of Preserving Health, 167 wards, when he knew whom he had slain, he died with- in a few days of grief. . Homer had sailed out of Chios to lo, with a purpose to visit Athens: here it was, that being old, he fell sick, and so remained upon the shore, where there landed certain fishermen, whom he asked if they had taken any thing?" They replied, ''what we caught we left behind us; and what we could not catch we brought with us;" meaning, that when they could not catch any fish, they had loused themselves upon the shore, kill- ing what they took, and carrying with them such as they could not find. When Homer was not able to solv^ this riddle, it is reported that he died with grief. When the Turks came to raise the siege of Buda, there was amongst the German captains a nobleman called Rayschachius, whose son, a valiant young gentle- man, having got out of the army without his father's knowledge, he behaved so gallantly in fight against the enemy, in the sight of his idXhtr and of the army, that he was highly commended of all men, and especially of his father, who did not know he was his son; yet before he could clear himself he was compassed in by the enemy, and, valiantly fighting, was slain. Rayschachius, exceed- ingly moved by the death of brave a man, ignorant how near it touched himself, turning about to the other cap- tains, said, " this worthy gentleman, whosoever he be, deserves eternal commendation, and to be honourably buried by the whole army." As the rest of the captains were with like compassion approving his speech, the dead body of the unfortunate son was presented to the most miserable father, which caused all who were pre- sent to shed tears; but such a sudden and inward grief surprised the aged father, and struck so to his heart, that after he had stood awhile speechless, with his eyes fixed, he fell down dead. Uvipertus elected bishop of Rauburg, went to Rome 168 On HygieinCy or the art finding himself neglected and rejected by him, upon the account of his youth, the next night for grief all the hair of his head was turned gray, whereupon he was received. ^ The melioration of grief by time, and its being at length even attended by pleasure, depends on our re- taining any distinct idea of the last object, and forget- ting for a time, the idea of the loss of it. This pleasure of grief is beautifully described by Akenside. Ask the faithful youth Why the cold urn of her whom long he lov'd So often fills his arms: so often draws His lonely footsteps at the silent hour To pay the mournful tribute of his tears? Oh! he will tell thee, that the wealth of worlds Should ne'er seduce his bosom to forego That sacred hour; when stealing from the noise Of care and envy, sweet remembrance soothes With Virtue's kindest looks, his aching breast, And turns his tears to rapture. Whilst the great genius of physic, Hippocrates, drove away maladies by his precepts, and almost snatched bodies out of the hands of death, one Antiphon arose in Greece, who, envious of his glory, promised to do upon souls, what the other did on bodies; and proposed the sublime invention, which Plutarch calls the art of cur- ing griefs where we may truly say, he used more vanity, promises, and show of words, than he wrought effects. Certainly it were to be wished that all ages, which are abundant in misery, should likewise produce great com- forts to soften the calamities of human life. of Preserving Health. 169 O! canst thou minister to a mind diseased, Pill -k IVoni the memory of rooted sorrow, Rase out the written troubles of the brain; And, with some sweet oblivious antidote, • Cleanse tlie stuff 'd bosom of that perilous stuff Which weighs upon the heart? Shakspeare# In the pagan religion, the power of dying was the great consolation in irremediable distress. Seneca says, " no one need be unhappy, unless by his own fault." — And the author of Ttlemachus begins his work by say- ing, that Calypso could not console herself for the loss of Ulysses, and found herself unhappy in being immor- tal. But to the Christian, this one suggestion, I know that my Redeemer liveth, affords a richer cordial to the fainting soul, than all the volumes of Heathen Phi- losophy. Many are the sayings of the wise In ancient and in modern books enroll'd, Extolling patience as the truest fortitude: And to the bearing well of all calamities, All chances incident to man's frail life. Many are the consolatory writs form'd With studied argument, and much persuasion; But with th' afflicted in his pangs such sounds Little prevail, or rather seem a tune Harsh, and of dissonant mood from his complaint: Unless he feel within Some source of consolation from above^ Secret refreshings, that repair his strength, And fainting spirits uphold. MiLtOT?. Y 170 On Hygieine^ or the art When the heart is oppressed, every former comfort at that moment usually goes for nothing. Life is beheld in all its gloom. A dark cloud seems to hang over it; and it is too often reviewed, as no other than a scene of wretchedness and sorrow. But this is to be unjust to human life, as well as \ingrateful to its author. Only consider how many days, how many months, how many years you have passed in health, ease and comfort; how many pleasurable feelings you have had;- how many bles- sings, ill short, of difierent kinds, you have tasted; and you will be forced to acknowledge, that more materials of thanksgiving present themselves than of lamentation and complaint: these blessings, you will say, are past; but though past, ought they to be gone from your re- membrance? Do they merit no place in the comparative estimate of goods and evils of your state? Did you, could you expect, that in this mutable world, any tem- poral joy was to last forever? Has gratitude no influence to form your mind to a calm acquiescence in your Be- nefactor's appointments? What can be more reason- able than to say — Having in former times received so many good things from the hand of God, shall I not now without despondence, receive the few^ evils which it hath pleased him to send? If we are deprived of friends, whom we tenderly loved, are there not some still remain- ing, from whom we may expect much comfort? If our bo- dies are afflicted with sore disease, have we not reason to be thankful that our mind continues vigorous and entire? that we are in a situation to look around us for whatever can afford us ease; and that after the decay of this frail and mouldering tabernacle, we can look forward a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens^ In the midst of all distresses, there remains to every sincere Christian, that mixture of pure and genuine con- solation, which springs from the promises and hopes of a future life. Consider what a singular distinction this makes in your situation, beyond the state of those who, under the various troubles of life, are left without hope; without any thing to look up to, but a train of unknown causes and accidents, in which they see no light nor com- ef Preserving Health. 171 fort. Thank the Father of Mercies, that into all the evil he sends, he infuses joyful hope, that the suffer- ings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in the end to the vir- tuous and good. Have we sustained the greatest of all losses? it is his gain that he yet liveth, that this life is but the threshold, the portal, the entrance to a better place, and that his happiness is as complete as our misery is great. Let us turn our eyes from earth to heaven, from the perishable body to that which endureth forever; and, even whilst we are heavy with affliction, let us smile with our eyes turned upwards, and say, It is thy will, I sub- mit. — He is happy. I would not wish him back to a troublesome world. — 1 soon shall follow after him. The mortal hath put on immortality — We shall then meet, never, never, to be separated more." Think, then, ye mourning parents, nor complain For breathless children, as ye weep in vain. Why should you be in lamentations drovvn'd, While your young babes with victory are crown'd, Before the sword was drawn, or cruel strife Had shed its venom on the ills of life? Perhaps Almighty God foresaw some vile, Some tempting evil should them beguile; Of sore adversity, a dreadful storm, Or of dire wickedness, a monstrous form. How then in words which nothing can avail, Against lhat kind precaution dare you rail? Remember, that of them you're not bereav'd. But from " the coming evil they are sav'd." AnketelLo 172 On Hygieine^ or the art OF FEAR. Timorous self-love, with sick'niii^ fancy's aid, Presents the danger that you dread the most, And ever galls you in your tender pari. Hence, some for love, and some for jealousy. Have lost their reason: some for fear of want. Want all their lives; and others every day, For fear of dying, suffer worse than death. Is tliere an evil worse than fear itself? And what avails it, that indulgent Heaven From mortal eyes has wrapt the woes to come. If we, ingenious to torment ourselves. Grow pale at hideous fictions of our own? Armstron*. Fear has its origin in the apprehension of danger, and is kindly placed in man as a sentinel for self-preser- vation. But, like every other passion, the excess of it is pernicious. If it be raised to the degree of terror, the hairs are raised on end, and the whole body put into horror and trembling. With some individuals it is apt to occasion diarrhoea; and in others, an involuntary dis- charge of urine. If the passion continues, the spirits are put into confusion, so that they cannot execute their of- fices; the usual succours of reason fail; judgment is blinded; the powers of voluntary motion become weak; and the heart is insufficient to maintain the circulation of the blood; which, stagnating in the ventricles of the heart, causes swooning, and sometimes sudden death. Don Diego Osorius, a Spaniard of a noble family, being in love with a young lady of the court, had pre- vailed w ith her for a private conference under the shady boughs of a tree, that grew w^ithin the gardens of the king of Spain: but, by the unfortunate barking of a little dog, their privacy was betrayed, and the young gentle- man seized by some of the king's guard, was imprisoned. It was a capital crime to be found in that place, and, of Freserv'mg Health, 173 therefore, he was condemned to die. He was so terrified at the hearing of his sentence, that one and the same night saw the same person young, and all turned gray, as in age. The jailor, moved at the sight, related the ac- cident to king Ferdinand, as a prodigy; who, thereupon, pardoned him; saying, he had been sufficiently punish- ed for his fault, seeing he liad exchanged the flower of his youth into the hoary hairs of age.'' The like happened to a dissipated youth while he lay sick on his bed. He, hearing the physicians despaired of his life, what with watching and the fear of death, all the hair on his head turned gray in the compass of one night. A lady, near the time of her delivery, was exceed- ingly frightened with the cry of fire at midnight; and beholding the flames not far off*, she presently complain- ed of an extraordinary commotion of the inflmt. She went to bed and slept; but, ere long, was taken with a strange and horrible kind of convulsion, of which she died within twelve hours after her fright. Mr. , a clergyman, about forty years of age, who was rather a weak man, happened to be drinking wine in a jocular company, and by accident swajlowed part of the seal of a letter which he had just received: one of his companions, seeing him alarmed, cried out, in humour, " It will seal your bowels up." He became melancholy from that instant, and in a day or two refu- sed to swallow any kind of nourishment. On being pressed to give a reason for his refusal, he answered, he knew nothing would pass through him; and though he was frightened into taking a little broth once or twice by threats, yet he soon ceased entirely to swallow any thing, and died in consequence of this insane idea. I knew a surgeon, says Dr. Darwin, who was always rather of a parsimonious disposition, had a large house, with a fortune of forty thousand pounds left him; and in 174 On Hygie'iney or the art a few weeks became insane from the fear of poverty; lamenting that he would die in a jail or in a work-house. He had left off a laborious country practice, and the daily perception of profit in his books; he also now saw greater expenses going on in his new house, than he had been accustomed to observe, and did not so distinctly see the source of supply; which seems to have occa- sioned the maniacal hallucination. The fear of hell, con- tinues he, has also, in some instances, been attended with fatal effects. In this kind of madness, the poor pa- tients frequently commit suicide; although they believe they run headlong into the very hell which they dread! The miserable life bad men have, by reason of their continual fear of death, we have exemplified in Dionysius, the tyrant of Syracuse, who finished his thirty-eight years rule in this manner: Removing his friends, he gave the custody of his body to some stran- gers and barbarians; and being in fear of barbers, he taught his daughters to shave him, and when they were grown up, he durst not trust them with a razor, but taught them how they should burn off his hair and beard with the white films of walnut kernels. Not daring to speak to the people out of the common rostrum or pul- pit for that purpose, he used to make orations to them from the top of a tower. On one occasion, he gave his cloak and sword to a small boy whom he loved, to hold for a few minutes; and when one of his most familiar friends had jestingly said, " You now put your life into bis hands," and that the boy smiled, he commanded them both to be slain, one for showing the way how he might be killed, and the other for approving it with a smile. At last, overcome in battle by the Carthagenians, he perished, as might have been expected, by the treason of his own subjects. The rich Cardinal of Winchester, Henry Beaufort, who procured the death of the good Duke of Gloucester, was soon after struck with an incurable disease; and, understanding by his physicians, tliat he could not live, of Preserving Health. 175 he expressed himself thus; " Fye, will not death be hired? will money do nothing? must I die that have such great riches? If the whole realm of England would save my life, I am able, either by policy to get it, or by riches to buy it." But the king of terrors is not to be bribed by gold; it is a pleasure to him to mix the brains of princes and politicians with common dust; and how loth soever he was to depart, yet grim death would seize upon him, How^ shocking must thy summons be, O death! To him that is at ease in his possessions; Who, counting on long years of pleasure here, Is quite unfurnish'd for the world to come? In that dread moment, how the frantic soul Raves round the walls of her clay tenement. Rushes to each avenue, and shrieks for help, But shrieks in vain The foe, Like a staunch murderer, steady to his purpose. Pursues him close through every lane of life, Nor misses once the track, but presses on; Till forc'd at last to the tremendous verge, At once he sinks to everlasting ruin. Blaib. The King of Hungary, being on a time very sad, his brother, a jolly courtier, would needs know of him what ailed him: Oh, brother," said he, 1 have been a gi-eat sinner against God, and I fear to die, and to appear before his tribunal." These are," said his brother, " melancholy thoughts," and withal made a jest of them. The king replied nothing for the present; but the custom of the country was, if the executioner came and sound- ed the trumpet before any man's door, he was presently to be led to execution. The king, in the dead time of 176 Oft Hygieine, or the art the night, sent the heads-men to sound the trumpet before his brother's door; who hearing it, and seeing the messengers of death, runs pale and trembling in his brother's presence, beseeching him to tell him wherein he offended. " Oh brother," replied the king, " you have never offended me; but is the sight of my execu- lioners so dreadful? And shall not I, that have greatly and grievously offended God, fear not his, that must carry me before his judgment'-seat?" The best remedy against this tottering state of the soul, is a good conscience; which if a man want, he will tremble in the midst of all his armed guards. Fools! if you kss provok'd your fears, No more m^ spectre form appears. Death's b-it a path that must be trod, If man would ever pass to God: A port of calms, a state of ease From the rough rage of swelling seas. Parnell. The virtuous soul pursues a nobler aim, And life regards but as a fleeting dream: She longs to w^ake, and wishes to get free, To launch from earth into eternity. For while the boundless theme extends our tlioughts, Ten thousand thousand rolling years are naught. Gay. Jerusalem being taken by the Christians, and God- frey of Bulloin made King of it, the Sultan of Egypt had prepared a great army, either to besiege it, or fight the christians; w ho perceiving themselves unable to cope with so great a power, with great earnestness besought the assistance of Almighty God; then full of courage went to meet the enemy. The barbarians seeing them of preserving Health. Ill approach and come on so courageously, who they thought would not have the confidence so much as to look them in the face, that they never so much as thought of fighting, but running headlong in a disorder- ed flight, they were slain by the Christians, as so many beasts, to the number of an hundred thousand. Thou, to whom the world unknown With all its shadowy shapes is shown; Who seest appall'd th' unreal scene. While fancy lifts the veil between: Ah, Fear! ah, frantic Fear! I see, I see thee near. I know thy hurried step, thy haggard eye! Like thee I start, like thee disorder'd fly. For lo, what monsters in thy train appear. Collins. It is said of Epicurus, a profane teacher, that never was a school boy more afraid of a rod, than he was of the thought of a God and death. No man more feared the things which he taught should be despised, than himself. For whatever there is in the air, there is cer- tainly an elastical power in the conscience, that will bear itself up, notwithstanding all the weight that is laid upon ! it. Men may silence for a while the voice of their own conscience; but it will find a tim^e to speak so loud as to be heard in despite of its owner. ** He that commits a sin shall quickly find, The pressing guilt lie heavy on his mind; Tho' bribes or favours should assert his cause, Pronounce him guiltless, and elude the laws; None quits himself, his own impartial thought Will damn; and conscience will record the fault.'" Z 178 On Hygicine^ or the art Theodoricus, king of the Goths, most treacherously murdered two Roman senators, Symmachus and Boethi- us, whom he had induced to visit him. Not long after their death there was set before him on the table at sup- per the head of a great fish; there did he think he saw the head of Symmachus with a horrible yawning, and threatening him with flaming eyes. Immediately, there- . fore, he caused himself to be carried to bed, a physician was sent for, but could not help him; he told his friends about him of that terrible resemblance of Symmachus which he had seen; and deploring his wicked cruelty, he soon after gave up the ghost. Attains, king of Pergamus, had slain his mother, and also his wife; for which he was so pursued with divine vengeance that he never after had a joyful day; laying aside his royal ornaments, he put upon him a poor and sordid garment; he suffered the hair of his head and beard to grow; he came not to show himself in public to the people; and there was nothing of mirth or feasting at his court. To conclude, he was so terrified with his conscience, that yielding up the government of his king, dom, he betook himself to the employment of a gar- dener, digging up the earth, and sowing seed therein; after this he passed to the art of graving in brass, and therein spent his time. At last he purposed to make a se- pulchre for his mother; and being intent upon the work, through the vehement heat of the sun, he contracted a fever, which terminated his existence in a few days. Catullus, governor of Lybia, fraudulently and unjust- ly put to death three thousand Jews, and confiscated their goods. Not long after he fell into a grievous dis- ease, and was cruelly tormented, not only in body but also in mind; for he was so greatly terrified, and still imagined he saw the ghosts of them whom he had so un- justly slain, ready to kill him; so that he cried out, and not able to contain himself, leaped out of his bed, as though he had been tortured with torments and fire. of Preserving Health, 179 And this disease daily increasing, he died in a most shocking manner. The wretched state of king Richard the Third, after he had murdered his nephews, is thus described by sir Thomas More: " I have heard, saith he, by credi- ble reports, that after this abominable deed he never had quiet in his mind, and never thought himself safe. When he went abroad, his eyes whirled about, his body was privily fenced, his hand ever on his dagger, his counte- nance and manner like one who was ever ready to strike: he took no rest in the night, lay long waking and mus- ing, sore wearied with care at watching, and rather slumbered than slept, troubled with fearful dreams: he sometimes started suddenly up, leaped out of his bed, and ran about the chamber: his restless heart was conti- nually tossed and tumbled with the tedious impression and stormy remembrance of his horrid and abominable deeds." Conscience, what art thou? thou mysterious pow'r, That dost inhabit us without our leave, And art within ourselves another self, A master self, that loves to domineer, And treat the monarch frankly as the slave; How dost thou light a torch to distant deeds, Make the past, present, and the future frown: How, ever and anon, awake the soul, As with a peal of thunder, to strange horrors! Shakspeare. A Pythagorean philosopher had bought a pair of shoes of a coblcr; but having no money at present, de- sired him to stay for it till the morrow, and then he Would return to pay him. He came with his money ac- cording to agreement, and then heard that the cobler had just died; he, therefore, without mention of the 180 On Hygieine^ or the art tnoney, departed with a secret joy for the unexpected gain he had made thai day; but finding that his con- science would not suffer him to be quiet, he takes the money, goes to the coblcr's shop, and casting in the mo- ney there — Go thy ways," said he, " for though he is dead to all the world besides, yet he is alive to me." A good conscience is to the soul what health is to the body. It preserves a constant ease and serenity within us, and more than countervails all the calamities and af- flictions that can befall us. When the mind has been under the influence of sud- den surprise, or vehement attention to some interesting object, it has frequently suspended, and even entirely cured ague and fever, asthma, and other chronic dis- eases. An officer of great courage, who had contracted the asthma by long service in India, declares, that during a most severe attack of that complaint, when he could scarcely breathe in an erect posture, and without power to move, as he thought, six yards, to save his life, the alarm guns were fired for the whole line to turn out, be- cause the Marrattas had broke into the camp. Knowing that certain death would be his portion if he remained in his tent, he sprung out with an alacrity that amazed his attendants^ instantly mountedhis horse ^ and with great ease drew his sword, which the day before he could not move from its scabbard, though he had used his whole strength in the attempt. From the instant of the alarm, the debility left him, together with the asthma, nor did the disorder return for some time after. A lady who was affected with the tertian ague, was so terrified by the explosion of a bomb, which was fired off during the fit, that she fainted away. Slight cordials were immediately administered, and she soon recovered from her state of weakness without any appearance of fever, which had afterwards no return. of Preserving Health. 181 A young lady who had a quartan ague for several months successively, was invited by some of her ac- quaintance to take an excursion on the water, with a view to dissipate the melancholy ideas occasioned by her ill- ness; but they had scarcely got into the boat when it be- gan to sink, and all were terribly shocked with the dread of perishing. After escaping this danger, the patient found herself cured, and she had no return of the ague. A man of a hot, moist constitution, being suddenly seized, in very warm weather, with an internal cold, died within eighteen hours without the least agitation, or any of the convulsions that accompany the agony of death. His friends, surprised at so sudden and fatal an accident, requested the physician who had attended him to open his body, which he did, and found that he died of a mortification. He was an extraordinary fat subject, and what was very remarkable, his bones were as small as those of a young girl, and his muscles extremely weak, and rather membranous than fleshy. While the physician was dissecting the body, and pointing out the cause of his death, a brother of the deceased, of a like ha- bit and constitution, who had been absent several years, entered the room of a sudden; and hearing the detail of the circumstances of his death, of which he saw the cause in so extraordinary conformation, he became speechless, and fell into a fainting fit, from which neither cordials, nor any other means employed in such case, could recover him. The patient seemed to have neither pulse nor respiration, his body all over was in a cold sweat, his limbs began to grow stiff, and in short he ap- peared to be' dying. The physician considering him a dead man, observed and fortunately rather in a loud voice, let us replace the parts of the dead body we have dissected, and sew it up; in the mean time the other will be quite dead, and I will dissect him also." He had scarcely uttered these words, when the gentleman in the fainting fit started up from the bed, roaring out pro- digiously loud, snatched up his cloak, took to his heels 182 On Ht/gieine, or the art as if nothing had happened to him; and since that time he has enjoyed a good state of health. |^ I have frequently observed, says the ingenious au- thor of the Medical Extracts, delicate hysterical wo- men, who, for many months, had seldom enjoyed one day's health, suddenly relieved from every complaint, when a favourite child was attacked with a disease, in which danger was apprehended: and they continued in appearance, to be in perfect health during the whole course of the illness, and exhibited an unusual alertness in discharging their duty as nurses and parents. But when they understood that the danger was over, their former complaint gradually returned, to their great surprise; for from the health they had lately enjoyed, and for so considerable a time, they believed themselves perfectly cured. Through a most criminal inattention to children in the nursery, a foundation is sometimes laid in their ten- der minds for those superstitious terrors, from v/hicl> not all their eftbrts in subsequent life can entirely re- lieve them. I allude to those dismal stories about witches^ spirits^ hobgoblins, JRaiv-head md Bloody -bones ^ where- with silly nurses, especially poor blacks, are so fond of frightening infants. Considering the importance of deep impressions made during those tender years, parents cannot too strictly forbid every thing of this sort; neither can they ever exceed in their generous labours to illu- minate the minds of their children with lofty ideas of their Creator, and that mighty power which he will never fail to exert in their favour, if they will but be good* Timorous persons are more readily infected by con- tagious disorders, than those possessed of fortitude. — Hence it is we find nurses most frequently escape con- tagion, while persons of a fearful disposition contract the disease on entering the chamber of the sick only once or twice. of Preserving Health, 183 Persons under a violent fit of fear, should be treated like those who suffer from any other spasmodic contrac- tion. Tea, a little wine, or 'spirits and water may be given to them; vinegar, lavender-drops, or spirits of hartshorn may be held to the nostrils; warm bathing of the feet, and emollient injections may be of advantage; but above all, the mind ought to be duly composed. — Excessive hashfulness borders on fear; it may be cor- rected by social intercourse with persons of a cheerful disposition. OF ANGER. When reason, like a skilful charioteer, Can break the fiery passions to the bit. And, spite of their licentious sallies, keep The radiant track of glory; passions, then, Are aids and ornamente. Young. Resentment of wrong is a useful principle in human nature; and for the wisest purposes was implanted in our frame. It is the necessary guard of private rights; and the great restraint on the insolence of the violent, who, if no resistance were made, would trample on the gentle and peaceable. But, in the fulness of self-estima- tion, we are too apt to forget what we are. We are ri- gorous to offences, as if we did not daily entreat heaven for mercy. It is a vice that few persons are able to con- ceal; for if it do not betray itself by external signs, such as sudden paleness of the countenance, and trembling of the joints, it is more impetuous within. This headstrong and impetuous affection of the mind, is well described by some of the ancients to be a short madness. It is a disease, that wheresoever it prevails, is no less dangerous than deforming to us; it swells the / 184 On Hygleiney or the art face; inflames the blood; and like the mischievous evil spirit in the gospel, that threw the possessed now into the fire, and then into the water, it casts us into all kind of dangers, and frequently hurries us into the chambers of death itself. Coelius, the orator, was certainly the most passionate of mortals; for, having asked his client divers questions, and he agreeing with him in all things he questioned him about, in a great heat he cried out in open court, *' say something contrary to me, that so we may quarrel. How could he possibly endure an injury, who was not able to bear obsequiousness itself? Montagne, in his Essays, gives us a story which he remembered to be current when he was a boy, of a neighbouring king, who, having received a blow from the hand of God, swore he would be revenged, and in order to it, made proclamation, that for ten years to- come, no one should pray to him, or so much as mention him throughout his dominions. By which," says he, "we are not so much to take measure of the folly, as the vain- glory of the nation, Spain, of which this tale was told." Those who feel the approach of anger in their mind, should, as much as possible, divert their attention from the object of provocation, and remain silent. They should never use loud oaths, violent upbraidings, or strong expressions of countenance, or gesticulation:* of the arms, or clenched fists; as these, by their former as- sociations with anger, will contribute to increase it. I have been told, says Dr. Darwin, of a serjeant or cor- poral, who began moderately to cane his soldiers, when they were awkward in their exercise; but being addicted to swearing and coarse language, he used soon to en- rage himself by his own expressions of anger, till, to- ward the end, he was liable to beat the delinquents un- mercifully. Is this not applicable to some of us, in the treatment of our slaves? of Preserving Health, 185 A gentleman in New- Castle county, Delnware, was so enragf d with a neighbouring slave, for j)ersf vei ing, contrary to his orders, to visit a female servant in his family, that he bought him of his master at a high price, for the express purpose getting satisfaction; that is, to give him a severe flogging, and then to sell him to a ne- gro-buyer. What with the bitter curses and blows he inflicted upon the poor f llow, tied hands and feet, his anger rose at length to a flame he could not control; and, by the time the master had lost the power to inflict, the poor slave had lost the power to sufl'er — having li- terally expired under his cruel hands. A sea captain, in Charleston, South Carolina, navi- gated his vessel with the help of three slaves. On some provocation from one of them, he laid hold of the offen- der, who was so alarmed at his master's looks, that he jerked away from him. Roused to fury by such an act of treason, as this appeared to him, the master caught up a broad axe, and with the looks and voice of a demon, ordered his other slaves "to seize the d d villain." Frightened out of their wits, they seized their fellow- servant, and the master, black with rage, and regardless of his prayers and supplications, had him dragged to a block, and in a most barbarous manner struck oflf his head. Although th J laws of the land did not sentence these inhuman masters to death, yet neither of them long sur- vived their infernal acts. The gnawings of a blood ^ stained conscience soon brought them down to the grave. A young gentleman in Augusta, Georgia, going to a party in the neighbourhood, in a gig, had not got out of the street, before his horse baulked. The youth, leaping from his gig, and angrily catching his horse by the bridle, led him off". Having mounted his gig, he cracked his whip for a second start; bu; his horse had no: gone many steps, before he ur.fortunutely fel! b:rk .;gain. Leaping from the gig in a violent rage, he struck his 186 On Hygieine^ or the art horse over the head with his loaded whip, and then at- tempted to lead him off once more. Frighted by such violence, the animal, in place of moving forward, drew back. Enraged by snch obstinacy, the young man re- peated his blows with the whip until it broke, which ra- ther increased the perturbation of his mind. By this time, finding himself surrounded by unwelcome spectators of his brutal conduct, he became more furious; and snatch- ing a large club, continued his unmerciful blows, until he brought the horse to the ground; when, after a few struggles, his blood and brains flowing copiously, the poor animal expired. Pale and trembling Anger rushes in, With falt'ring speech, and eyes that wildly stare; Fierce as the tiger, madder than the seas. Desperate, and armed with more than human strength. He whom Anger stings, drops, if he dies, At once, and rushes apoplectic down; Or a fierce fever hurries him to hell. Armstrong, A gentleman being greatly incensed against his ser- vant, drew his sword cane with intentioj|of running him through his body. Two or three of his friends being present, laid hold of the gentleman, and took away the sword, that he might not pollute his hands with the blood of his servant. While he was thus in their hands, the gentleman, through extreme anger, fell into an apoplexy, which terminated his existence. Victor Pisanus, the Venetian admiral, famous for his exploits, understanding that his vice-admiral, through cowardice, had suffered ten ships of the Genoese to es- cape out of the Sipontine haven, fell into such a passion as put him immediately into a fever, whereof he died. of Preserving Health. 187 Solomon, sensible of the destructive tendencies of ungovernable passions, says, " Wrath slayeth the angry man, and envy killeth the silly one; and that the wicked shall not live out half their days." For, as violent gales of wind will soon wreck the strongest ships, so violent passions will soon destroy the best constitutions. And, one unquiet disposition distempers the whole peace of a family or society, as one jarring instrument will spoil a whole concert. There is no man obliged to live so free from passion, as not in some cases to show some resent- ment, so that the injurer may not be encouraged to com- mit a second injury; but this should be done in a cool and deliberate manner, and to carry with it nothing like revenge. It was a good method observed by Socrates; when he found in himself any disposition to anger, he would check it by speaking low, in opposition to the motions of his displeasure. The angry man is his own severest tormentor; his breast knows no peace, while his raging passions are re- strained by no sense of either moral or religious duties. To prove that passion is exorbitant in its demrinds, what proportion, for instance, is there between the life of a man, and an affront received, or supposed to be given by some unguarded expression. How fantastic, then, how unjustifiable, are those supposed laws of modern honour, which, for such an a/front, requires no less re- parat!bn than the death of a fellow creature; and which, to obtain this reparation, requires a man to endanger his own life? Laws which, as they have no foundation in reason, never received the least sanction from any wise or polished nations of antiquity, but were devised in the darkest ages of the world, and are derived to us from the ferocious barbarity of Goths and Vandals. Who is there, were he to behold his enemy during that conflict which human nature must suffer at the last, but must feel relentings at that enmity which hath deprived ano- ther of existence? " There is the man with whom I contended, silent and mute forever! How poor is the advantage which I now enjoy! He is fallen, and I am about to follow him! In a 188 On Hygieine, or the art short time we shall be laid together! Had he not -his vir- lues and good qtialities as well as I? When we shall both appear before the judgment seat of God, shall I be found innocent and free of blame for all the enmity I have borne to him?" My friends, let the anticipation of such sentiments serve now to cool the heat of anger, and allay the fierce- nebJi of resentment. Let us look upon this world as a state Oi trial. Elevated by such sentiments, our minds will become calm and sedate. We shall look down, as from a superior station, on ihe petty strifes of this world. They are the selfish, the sensual, and the vain, who are most subject to the undue influence of passion. They are linked so closely to die world, by so many sides they touch every object, and every person aro\md them, that thty are perpetually hurt, and perpetually hurting others. B'»t the spirit of true religion removes us to a a proper distance from the grating objects of worldly contention. It leaves us suffix iently connected with the world, for acting our part in it with propriety; but dis- engages us from it so far as to weaken its power of dis- turbing our tranquillity. It inspires magnanimity; and magnanimiiy always breathes gentleness. It leads us to view the follies of men with pity, and not with rancour; and to treat, with the mildness of a superior nature, what, in little minds, would call forth all the bitterness of passion. Every man knows how to row in a calm; and an in- different pilot will serve to direct the course of a ship when the season is quiet and serene; but the conduct of that governor is most praise- worthy, who knows how to steer his vessel aright when the winds are enraged, and a furious tempest has put the tumultuous waves into a vehement commotion. In like manner, it is small commendation to appear mild, when nothing is said or done to displease us; but to repress our rising passions, and to keep down our resentments in the midst of inju- rious provocations, is a victory greater and more deser- ving of praise, than perhaps the greatest conquerors ever merited. #/' Preserving HealtJu 189 Forgiveness of injuries, and a merciful disposition towards those who have offended us, is not only an in- fallible mark of a great and noble mind, but it is our indispensable duty as reasonable creatures, and peculi- arly so as Christians. Gaston, Marquis de Renty, an illustrious nobleman, was a soldier and a Christian: and had a peculiar felicity to reconcile the seeming opposition between those cha- racters. He had a command in the French army, and had the misfortune to receive a challenge from a person of distinction in the same service. The marquis re- turned for answer, that he was ready to convince the gentleman he was in the wrong; or, if he could not con- vince him, was as ready to ask his pardon. The other, not satisfied with this reply, insisted upon his meeting him with the sword; to which the marquis sent this an- swer: that he was resolved not to do it, since God and his king had forbidden it; otherwise, he would have him know that all the endeavours he had used to pacify him, did not proceed from any fear of him, but of Almighty God, and his displeasure: that he should go every day about his usual business, and if he did assault him, he would make him repent it. The angry man, not able to provoke the marquis to a duel, and meeting him one day by chance, drew his sword and attacked him: the marquis soon wounded and disarmed both him and his second, with the assistance of a servant who attended him. But then did this truly Christian nobleman show the difference betwixt a brutish and a Christian courage; for, leading them to his tent, he refreshed them with wine and cordials, caused their wounds to be dressed, and their swords to be restored to them; then dismissed them with Christian and friendly advice, and was never heard to mention the affair afterwards, even to his near- est friends. It was a usual saying with this great man, that there was more true courage and generosity in bear- ing and forgiving an injury, for the love of God, than in requiting it with another: in suffering, rather tharu re- venging; because the thing was really more difficult: 190 On Hygieine, or the art adding, that bulls and bears had courage enough, but it was a brutal courage; whereas, that of men should be such as became rational beings and Christians. A quarrel having arisen between a celebrated gentle- man in the literary world, and one of his acquaintance, the latter heroically, and no less laconically, concluded a letter to the former, on the subject of the dispute, with, ** I have a life at your service, if you dare to take it." To which the other replied, " You say you have a life at my service, if I dare to take it. I must confess to you, that I dare not take it. I thank my God that I have not the courage to take it. But though I own that I am afraid to deprive you of your life, yet, Sir, permit me to as- sure you, that I am equally thankful to the Almighty Being, for mercifully bestowing on me sufficient reso- lution, if attacked, to defend my own." This unex- pected kind of reply had the proper effect: it brought the madman back again to reason; friends intervened, and the affair was compromised. Sir Walter Raleigh, a man of known courage and honour, being very injuriously treated by a hot-headed, rash youth, who next proceeded to challenge him, and, on his refusal to accept, spit upon him, and that too in public, the knight, taking out his handkerchief, with great calmness, made him only this reply: Young man, if I could as easily wipe your blood from my consci- ence, as I can this injury from my face, I would this moment take away your life." The consequence was, that the youth, struck with a sudden and strong sense of his misbehaviour, fell upon his knees, and begged forgiveness. ||| There was an uncivil fellow that did nothing all the i day long but rail against Pericles, the famous Athenian, in the market place, and before all the people: and though Pericles was at that time the public magistrate, ye^ he took no notice of it, and all the while dispatched j| sundry matters of importance, till night came; and then, 1 of Preserving Health 191 with a sober pace, went home towards his house, this varlet following him ail the way with abuse. Pericles, when he came to his house, it being dark, called to his man, and bade him light the fellow home, lest, it being night, he should lose his way. When Xenocrates came one time to the house of Pla- to to visit him, he prayed him, " that he would beat his servant for him, in regard he himself was not at present so fit to do it, because he was in a passion." Another time he said to one of his servants, " that he would beat him sufficiently, bui that he was angry." King Robert was one of the greatest kings that ever wore the crown of France. He once surprised a rogue who had cut away half of his cloak, furred with ermine, to whom he did no further evil, but only said mildly to him, "Save thyself, and leave the rest for another who may have need of it." Casimir was duke of the Sendorainians, a potent prince, and afterwards king of Poland: being on a time in a humour to divert himself, he called to him one Jo- hannes Cornarius, a knight, and his domestic servant, inviting him to play at dice; they did so, and fortune was equally favourable: and so, that having spent much time in gaining little upon each other, and it being grown far in the night, it was agreed to set the whole sum in controversy upon one single cast of the die. Casimir proved fortunate, and won all the 4lioney. Johannes, displeased, and incensed with his bad fortune, in the heat of his impatience falls upon the prince, and with his fist struck him over the mouth. It was a capital crime for the servant to strike his lord, and the same also his prince: but though all present were incensed at this insufferable action, yet he escaped by the benefit of the night, but was seized in the morning, brought back, and set in the presence of Casimir, to receive his sen- tence. He having well weighed the matter, broke into this wise speech. ** My friends, this man is less guilty 192 On Hygieine^ or the art than myself: nay, whatever ill is done, is on my part. Heat and sudden passion, which sometimes oversways even wise men, did transport him, and moved both his mind and hand to do as he did. But why did I give the cause? Why, unmindful of my own dignity, did I play %vith him as my fqual? And, therefore, Johannes, take not only thy pardon, but my thanks too: by a profitable correction thou hast taught me, that hereafter I should do nothing unworthy of a prince, but retain myself with- in the just limits of decency and gravity." This said, he freely dismissed him. Arcadius, an Argive, never gave over reviling king Philip of Macedon, abusing him with the most re- proachful terms; and arrived at last to that bold impu- dence, as to give him this kind of public warning: So far to fly, until he hither came, Where no man knew or heard of Philip's name. This man was afterwards seen in Macedonia. Then the friends and courtiers of king Philip gave him informa- tion thereof, moving him to inflict some severe punish- ment upon him, and in no case to sufi'er him to escape his hands. But Philip, on the contrary, having this railer in his power, s])ake gently unto him, used iiim courte- ously and familiarly, sent unto him in his lodging gifts and presents, and so sent him away in safety. After- wards, he commanded those couriiers who had incited him against hmij|ito inquire what words this man gave out of him amongst the Greeks. They made report again, and told him, that he was become a new man, and ceased not to speak wonderful things in praise of him. " Look you, then," said Philip unto them, am not I a better physician than all you? and am not I more skilled in the cure of a foul-mouthed fellow than the best of you?" Clinias, the Pythagorean, was a person very diflferent both in his life and manners from other men. If itchan- of Preserving Health. 193 ced at any time that he was influenced with anger, he would take his harp, play upon and sing to it; saying, as oft as he was asked the cause of his so doing, ** that by this means he found himself reduced to the temper of his former mildness." There is a charm, a power that sways the breast, Bids every passion revel or be still; Inspires with rage, or all your cares dissolves; Can soothe distraction, and almost despair: That power is Music. Armstrong. While the physician prescribes draughts for curing bodily diseases, an able musician might prescribe an air for rooting out a vicious passion. Asclepiades, a noble physician, as often as he had frenetic patients, or such as were unhinged, or evil af- fected in their minds, did make use of nothing so much for the cure of them, and restoration of the health, as music and sweet harmony of voices. At such time as the tyrant Eugenius raised that pe- rilous war in the East, and that money grew short with the emperor Theodosius, he determined to raise subsi- dies, and to gather from all parts more than before he had ever done; the citizens of Antioch bore this ex- action with so ill a will, that after they had uttered many outrageous words against the emperor, they pull- ed down his statues and those also of the empress his wife. A while after, when the heat of their fury was past, they began to repent themselves of their folly, and considered into what danger they had cast themselves and their city. Then did they curse their rashness, confess their fault, implore the goodness of God, and with tears, " that it would please him to calm the emperor's heart." Their supplications and prayers were solemnly sung, with sorrowful tunes and 2B 194 On Hygieine^ or the art lamenting voices. Their bishop, Fhivianus, employ- ed himself valiantly, in this needful time, in behalf of the city; made a journey to Theodosius, and did his utmost to appease him: but fiuding himself re- jected, and knowing that the emperor was devising some grievous punishment; and on the other side, not having the boldness to speak again, and yet much troubled in his thoughts because of his people, then came this device into his head: At such time as the emperor sat at meat, certain young boys were wont to sing musically unto him. Flavianus wrought so, that he obtained of those that had charge of the boys, that they would sufter them to sing the supplications and prayer of the city of Antioch. Theodosius, lis- tening to that grave music, was so moved with it, and so touched with compassion, that having then the cup in his hand, he with his warm tears watered the wine that was in it, and forgetting all his conceived displea- sure against the Antiochans, freely pardoned them and their city. Concerning the efficacy and power of music, I am desirous, says the Rev. Nathaniel Wanley, to set down what I myself saw practised upon Madame de la March, a gentlewoman near to Garet, young, virtuous, and pas- sable for beauty, who upon report of her husband's in- clination to change, and inconstant affections, fell into such a fury, that on the sudden she would throw herself into the fire, or out of the window, or into a fish-pond near her house, out of which she had been twice rescu- ed, and so was more diligently kept. The physicians at- tended her to no purpose, notwithstanding all their en- deavours; but a Capuchin passing that way to crave alms, and hearing what had befallen her, advised that some skilful and experienced person on the lute should continue to play by her; and that in the night some plea- sing ditties should consort with the music: it w^as ac- cordingly performed, and in less than three months the violent passion forsook her, and she remained sound both in body and mind. of Preserving Health, 195 Music exalts each jo}:, allays each ^rief, Expels diseases, softens every pain, Subdues the rage of poison, and the plague; And hence the wise of ancient days ador'd One power of Physic — Melody and Song. Armstrong. "When Apollonius was inquisitive of Canus, a Rhodi- an musician, " what he could do with his instrument?" he told him, that " he could make a melancholy man merry, and him that was merry much merrier than he was before; a lover more enamoured; and a religious man more devout." Timotheus, a Milesian, was so excellently skilled in music, that when he played and sung a song composed in honour of Pallas, in the presence of Alexander the Great, the prince, as one transported with th^ gallantry and martial humour of the air, started up, and being stirred in every part, called for his armour; but then again the musician changing into more sedate and calm- er notes, sounding as it were a retreat, the prince also sat quiet and still. What shall we say of Stradilla, the celebrated compo- ser, whose music made the daggers drop from the hands of his assassins! Stradilla having carried off the mistress of a Venetian musician, and retired with her to Rome, the Venetian hired three desperadoes to assassinate him; ^but fortunately for Stradilla they had an ear sensible to harmony. These assassins, while waiting for a favour- able opportunity to execute their purpose, entered the church of St. John de Lateran, during the performance- of an oratorio, composed by the person whom they in- tended to destroy, and were so affected by the music that they abandoned their design, and even waited on the musician to forewarn him of his danger. 196 On Hygieine, or the art OF HATRED. Infernal Malice, inly pining Hate, And Envy grievinj^ at another's state; When these are in the human bosom nurst. Can peace reside in dwellings so accurst? Hamilton. Hatred is a Fury that never sleeps; it ulcerates the soul, and tortures it throughout. Hence it never fails to injure the body. As admiration, the first of the passions, rises in the soul before she has considered whether the thing repre- sented to her be good, or convenient to her, or not; so, after she has judged it to be good, there is raised in her the most agreeable and complacent of all passions. Love; and when she hath conceived the same to be evil, she is quickly moved to Hatred, which is nothing but the soul's aversion to that which threatens pain or grief, and may be defined to be " a commotion produced by the spirits, that inciteth the soul to be willing to be separa- ted from objects that are represented to her as ungrateful and hurtful;" which definition only respects pure na- ture; but through the corruption of men and manners, it may be said to arise from an imbibed prejudice, or envy aggravated by continuance, and heightened by a malicious intention of malignancy, and injuring the per- sons to whom we have a disaffection, and that two with- out any reason but what proceeds from a self-contracted wickedness. Anger is sometimes allowable, and when, excessive, is still called but the vice of men; but hatred is said to be the sin of devils, being not confined at home, but roves abroad, seeking whom it may devour, Timon, the Athenian, had the surname of Man-hater: he was once very rich, but through his liberality and over- great bounty, was reduced to extreme poverty; in which condition he had large experience of the malice of Preserving Health. 197 and ingratitude of such as he had formerly served; he, therefore, fell into a vehement hatred of mankind; was glad of all their misfortunes, and promoted the ruin of all men as far as he might with his own safety. When the people, in honour of Alcibiades, attended on him home, as they used when he had obtained a cause, Ti- mon would not, as he used to others, turn aside out of the way, but met him on purpose, and said, Go on, my son, and prosper, for thou shalt one day plague all these with some signal calamity." He built him a house in the fields that he might shun the converse of men. He admitted to him only one Apemantus, a person much of his own humour, and he saying to him, " Is not this a fine supper?" " It would," said he, be much better if thou wert absent." Timon gave orders that his sepulchre should be set behind a dunghill, and this to be his epitaph: Here now I lie, after my wretched fall; Ask not my name, the gods destroy you all. Mison was of like manners with Timon, and had his name from the hatred he had to all men: whenever he was conversant among men, he was always sad: but when he was in any solitude, or place by himself, he was used to laugh and rejoice. Being asked why he laughed when nobody was present? " For that very reason," said he. When Sigismund, Marquis Brandenburgh, had ob- tained the kingdom of Hungary in right of his wife, it then appeared there was a mortal hatred betwixt the Hungarians and Bohemians; for when Sigismund com- manded Stephanus Konth, and with him twenty more Hungarian knights, to be taken and brought beforfe him in chains, as persons that had declined the obedience they owed him, not one of all these would name or ho- nour him in the least as their king; and before either they or their servants would change their minds, they were 198 On Hygieine^ or the art desirous to lose their heads. Among the servants was Chiotz;?, the page of Stephanus> who sadly bewailed the death of his master; and whereas, by reason of his tender age, the king made him divers promises; and to comfort him, told him, ''that he would take him as a servant about his own person;" Chiotza, with a trou- bled countenance, and in terms that testified at once both anger and hatred, replied, that he would never subject himself to the service of a Bohemian swine;" and in this obstinacy of mind he died. Cato, the censor, bore such a hatred to the female sex, that it was his common saying, that if the world was without women, the conversation of men would not be exempt from the company of the gods." Hyppolitus was also of the same complexion, as he expresses himself in Seneca: I hate, fly, curse, detest them all: Call't reason, nature, madness, as you please; In a true hatred of them there's some ease. First shall the water kindly dwell with fire, Dread Syrtis be the mariner's desire: Out of the west shall be the break of day, And rabid wolves with tender lambkins play, Before a woman gain my conquered mind, To quit this hatred, and to grow more kihd. Vv^hen the emperor Frederick had newly obtained a most signal victory in Hungary, he made a speech to his soldiers, whereof this was a part: " We have done," said he, " a great work, and yet there is a greater that still remains for us to do; which is, to overcome our- selves, and put an end at once to our covetousness, and the desire of revenge." Thus great and generous souls are ever found to be the most placable, and are easiest of Preserving Health. 199 .appeased; while the weak and fearful are guilty of the greatest barbarities, as not knowing how to allot any nieasure or bounds to their anger. A certain Italian, having his enemy in his power, told him there was no possible way for him to save his life, unless he would immediately deny and renounce his Sa- viour. The timorous wretch, in hope of mercy, did it; when ihe other, forthwith, stabbed him to the heart, saying that now he had a full revenge, for he had killed at once both his body and soul. In the Isle of Majorca, there was a lord of a castle, who, amongst others, kept a negro slave; and, for some fault of his, had beaten him with severity. The villain ]\Ioor, watching his opportunity, when his master and the rest were absent, shut the door against him, and, at his return, thus acted his revenge: while his 'master stood without, demanding entrance, he reviled him, vio- lated his lady, threw her and two of his children out of the castle window, and stood ready to do the like with the third and youngest child. The miserable father, who had beheld the ruin of all his family but this one, begged of his slave to save the life of that little one; which the cruel slave refused, unless he would cut off his own nose. The fond parent accepted the condition, and had no sooner-performed it, than the bloody villain first cast the infant down headlong, and then himself, in a barbarous bravery, thereby to elude the vengeance of his abused master. As I went from Rome with my company, says Came- rarius, passing through the marquisate of Ancona, we were to go through a city called Terni. As we entered the city, we saw over the gate, upon a high tower, a certain tablet, to which were fastened, as at first it seemed to us, a great many bats or reer-mice; we, think- ing it a strange sight, and not knowing w^hat it meant, one of the city, whom we asked, told us thus: *' There was," said he, " in this city, two noble, rich, and mighty 200 On Hygieine^ or the art houses, which for a long time bore an irreconcileablc hatred one against the other; their malice passed from father to son, as it were, by inheritance, by occasion of which many of both houses were slain and murdered. At last, the one house, not many years since, resolved to stand no more upon murdering one or two of the ad- verse party by surprise, but to run upon them all at once, and not to leave one of them alive. This bloody family secretly gathered together, out of the country adjoining, with their servants, and such other bravoes as many Italians keep in pay to employ in the execution of their revenges; these were privily armed, and had notice to be ready at a word. About midnight they seize upon the person of the governor of the city, and leaving guards in his house, go on silently to the house of their enemy, disposing troops at the end of every street. About ten of them take the governor in the midst of them, as if they had been the archers of his guard, whom they compelled, by setting a poignard to his throat, to command speedy entrance. He caused the doors to be opened; they, seeing the governor there, made no refusal; which done, they call their accompli- ces that stood not far olF, put the governor into safe- keeping, enter, and kill man, woman, and child, and the very horses in the stable. That done, they forced the governor to command the city gates to be opened, and so they departed, and dispersed into private places amongst their friends; some fled to the next sea-ports, and got far off; but such as staid near, were so diligently searched for, that they were found, drawn out of their holes, and put to death with grievous tortures; after, which, their hands and feet being cut off, were nailed to the tablet," saith he, " which you saw as you came along, as a lesson to posterity. The sun having broiled those limbs so fastened, makes travellers, that know^ nothing of the tragedy, suppose they are reer-mice." In the year 1506, in Lisbon, upon the tenth day of April, many of the city went to the church of St. Do- minick, to hear mass: on the left side of the church of Preserving Health. 201 there is a chapel, much reverenced by those of the country, and called Jesus' Chapel. Upon the altar there stands a crucifix, the wound of whose side is covered with a piece of glass. Some of those that came thither to do their devotions, casting their eyes upon this hole, it seemed to them that a kind of glimmering light came forth from it: then happy he that could first cry a mi- racle; and every one said that " God showed the tes- timonies of his presence." A Jew, that was but lately become a Christian there, denied that it was any mi- racle, saying, It was not likely that out of a dry piece of wood there should come such a light." Now, albeit many of the standers-by doubted of the miracle, yet, hearing a Jew deny it, they began to murmur, calling him a wicked apostate, a detestable enemy to Jesus Christ; and after they had sufficiently reviled him with words, all the multitude, foaming with anger, fell upon him, plucked off the hair of his head and beard, trod upon him, trailed him into the church yard, beat him to death, and kindling a great fire, cast the dead body into it. All the residue of the people ran to this mutinous company: there a certain friar preached a sermon, where- in he vehemently urged his auditors to revenge the injury that our Lord had received. The people, mad enough of themselves, were more incensed by this ex- hortation. Besides this, two other friars took and held up a cross as high as they could, crying out, *' Revenge! heresy! down with wicked heresy, and destroy the wick- ed nation!" Then, like hungry dogs, they fell upon the miserable Jews, cut the throats of a great number, and dragged them, half dead, to the fires, many of which they made for the purpose. They regarded neither age nor sex, but murdered men, women, and children; they broke open doors, rushed into rooms, dashed out chil- dren's brains against the walls: they went insolently into churches to pluck out thence the little children, old men, and young maidens, that had taken hold of the altars, the crosses, and images of saints, crying, Misericordia! Mercy! mercy!" There they either murdered them prescntlv, or threw them out alive into the fire. Many 2C 202 On Ilt/gieifte, or the art that carried the port and show of Jews, found them- selves in great danger; and some were killed, and others wounded, before they could make proof that they had no relation to them. Some that bore a .ejrudge to others, as they met them, did but cry JewsP^ and they were presently beaten down, without having liberty or leisure to answer for themselves. The magistrates were not so hardy as to oppose themselves against the fury of the people; so that, in three days, the cut-throats killed above two thousand Jewish persons. The king, under- standing the news of this horrible massacre, was ex- tremely angry, and suddenly despatched away officers with full power to punish so great offences; who caused a great number of the seditious to be executed. The friars that had lifted up the cross and animated the people to murder, were degraded, and afterwards hang- ed and burnt. The magistrates that had been slack to repress this riot, were some put out of office, and others fined; the city also was disfranchised of many privileges and honours. In the year 1572 was the bloody Parisian matins^ wherein was spilt so much Christian blood, that it flowed through the streets like rain water, in great abundance; and this butchery of men, women, and children, con- tinued so long, thai the principal rivers in the kingdom were seen covered with murdered bodies; and their streams so dyed and stained with human blood, that they who dwelt far from the place where this barbarous act was committed, abhorred the water of those rivers, and refused to use it, or eat of the fish taken therein, for a long time after. This tragedy was thus cunningly plot- ted. A peace was made with the protestants; for the as- surance whereof, a marriage was solemnized between Henry of Navarre, chief of the protestant party, and the lady Margaret, the king's sister. At this wedding there assembled the prince of Conde, the admiral Co- ligni, and divers others of chief note; but there was not so much wine drank as blood shed at it. At midnight the watch-bell rung; the king of Navarre aucj the princp of Preserving Health. 205 of Conde were taken prisoners; the admiral murdered in his bed, and thirty thousand, at the least, of the most potent men of the protestant religion, sent by the way of the Red Sea, to find the nearest passage to the land of Canaan. In the reign of Edward VI. upon the alteration of religion, there was an insurrection in Cornwall and di- vers other counties, wherein many were taken and ex- ecuted by martial law. The chief leaders were sent to London, and there executed. The sedition being thus suppressed, it is memorable what cruel revenge or sport Sir William Kingston, provost-marshal, made by vir- tue of his office, upon men in m.isery. One Boyer, mayor of Bodmin in Cornwall, had been amongst the rebels, not wilUngly, but enforced; to him the provost sent word that he would come and dine vv^th him, for whom the mayor made great provision. A little before dinner, the provost took the mayor aside, and whisper- ed him in the ear, " That an execution must that day be done in the town, and therefore required that a gal- lows should be set up against dinner should be over." The mayor failed not of his charge; presently after din- ner, the provost taking ttie mayor by the hand, desired him to lead him to the place where the gallows was; which, when he beheld, he asked the mayor, If he thought it to be strong enough?" Yes," said the mayor, " doubtless, it is." *' Well, then," said the pro- vost, '* get you up speedily, for it is provided for you." ** I hope," answered the mayor, you mean not as you speak!" In faith," said the provost, *' there is no re- medy, for you have been a busy rebel:" and so, with- out respite or defence, he was hanged. Near the said place dwelt a miller, who had been a busy actor in that rebellion, who, fearing the approach of the marshal, told a sturdy fellow, his servant, that he had occasion to go from home, and, therefore, if any came to inquire for the miller, he should not speak of him, but say that he was the miller, and had been so for three years before. So, the provost came, and called for the miller, when ^04 On Hygieine^ or the art out comes the servant, and said, " he was the man." The provost demanded, How long he had kept the mill?" These three years," answered the servant: then the provost commanded his men to lay hold of him, and hang him on the next tree. At this the fellow cried out, that he was not the miller, but the miller's man." " Nay, Sir," said the provost, *' I will take you at your word. If thou beest the miller, thou art a busy knave; if thou art not, thou art a false lying knave; and, howsoever, thou canst never do thy master better service than to hang for him;" and so, without more ado, he was dispatched. Excellent was the advice that was given to the Ro- mans by the ambassadors of some cities in Etruria, That since they were men, they should not resent any thing beyond human nature; and that in mortal bodies they should not carry immortal feuds." Light injuries are made none by disregarding them; which, if revenged, grow grievous and burihensome, and live to hurt us, when they might die to secure us. It is princely to dis- dain a wrong; and they say, princes, when ambassadors have offered indecencies, used not to chide, but deny them audience; as if silence were the royal way to re- venge a wrong. We cannot, perhaps, better instance the noblest way of taking revenge, than that heretofore pointed out by a common soldier. When the great Conde commanded the Spanish army in Flanders, and laid seige to one of its towns, the soldier in question being ill-treated by a general officer, and struck several times with a cane, for some words he had let fall, answered very coolly, that he should soon make him repent it. Fifteen days after, the same general officer ordered the colonel of the trenches to find him out a bold and intrepid fellow in his regi- ment to do a notable piece of service; and for which he promised a reward of a hundred pistoles. The soldier we are speaking of, who passed for the bravest in the regiment, oflfered himself for the business; and taking of Preserving Health. 205 with him thirty of his comrades, whom he selected, dis- charged his commission, which was a very hazardous one, with incredible courage and success. On his return, the officer highly commended him, and gave him the hundred pistoles he had promised. These, however, the soldier presently distributed among his comrades, say- ing, he did not serve for pay, and demanded only that, if his late action seemed to deserve any recompense, they would make him an officer: And, now, Sir," con- tinued he, to the general, who did not know him, I am the soldier whom you so abused fifteen days ago; and I told you I would make you repent it." The gene- ral instantly recollected him, and in great admiration of his virtue, threw his arms round his neck, begged his pardon, and gave him a commission that very day. M. Bibulus, a man of eminent authority, while he abode in the province of Syria, had two sons slain by the soldiers of Gabinius, for whom he exceedingly mourned. Queen Cleopatra, of Egypt, to assuage his grief, sent him bound those that had slain his sons, that he might take of them such revenge as he thought fit. He very joyfully received this good office, but com- manded them untouched to be returned back to Cleopa- tra, thinking it revenge enough that he had the enemies of his blood in his power. When the duke of Alva was in Brussels, about the beginning of the tumults in the Netherlands, he had sat down before Hulst, in Flanders; and there was a pro- vost-marshal in his army who was a favourite of his, and this provost had put some to death by secret com- mission from the duke. There was one captain Bolea m the army, who was an intimate friend of the provost's; and one evening late he went to the captain's tent, and brought with him a confessor and an executioner, as it was his custom. He told the captain he was come to ex- ecute his excellency's commission and martial law upon him. The captain started up suddenly, his hair standing upright, and being struck witli amazement, asked him^ 206 On Hygieine, or the art Wherein have I ofFended the duke?" The provost an- swered, " Sir, I am not to expostulate the busmess with you, but to execute my commission; therefore, I pray prepare yourself, for there is your ghostly father and executioner." So he fell on his knees before the priest, and having done, and the hangman going to put the halter about his neck, the provost threw it away, and breaking into a laughter, told him, " there was no such thing, and that he had done this to try his courage, how he would bear the terror of death." The captain, look- ing ghastly at him, said, " Then, Sir, get you out of my tent, for you have done me a very ill office." The next morning, the said captain Bolea, though a young man of about thirty, had his hair all turned gray, to the admiration of all the world, and the duke of Alva him- self, who questioned him about it: but he would con- fess nothing. The next year the duke was recalled, and in his journey to the court of Spain, he was to pass by Saragossa; and this captain Bolea and the provost went along with him as his domestics. The duke being to repose some days in Saragossa, the young old captain Bolea told him, that there was a thing in that town worthy to be seen by his excellency, which was a casa de loco, a bedlam house, such a one as there was not the like in Christendom." Well," said the duke, " go and tell the warden I will be there to-morrow in the after- noon." The captain having obtained this, went to the warden, and told him the duke's intention; and that the chief occasion that moved him to it was, that he had an unruly pravost about him, who was subject often times to fits of frenzy; and, because he wished him well, he had tried divers means to cure him, but all would not do; therefore, he would try whether keeping him close in bedlam for some days would do him any good. The next day the duke came with a great train of captains after him, amongst whom was the said provost, very shining and fine. Being entered into the house about the duke's person, captain Bolea told the warden, pointing at the provost, " that's the man:" the warden took hira aside into a dark lobby, where he had placed some of of Preso-ving Health. 207 his men, who muffled him in his cloak, seized upon his sword, and hurried him into a dungeon. The provost had lain there two nights and a day; and afterwards it hap- pened that a gentleman, coming out of curiosity to see the house, peeped into a small grate where the provost was. The provost conjured him, as he was a Christian, to go and tell the duke of Alva his provost was there confined, nor could he imagine why. The gentleman did his errand; and the duke, being astonished, sent for the warden with his prisoner: the warden brought the pro- vost in cuerpo, full of straws and feathers, madman-like, before the duke; who, at the sight of him burst into laughter, asked the warden why he had made him pri- soner? Sir," said the ^varden, it was by virtue of your excellency's commission, brought me by captain Bolea." Bolea stepped forth, and told the duke, Sir, you have asked me oft how these hairs of mine grew so suddenly gray; I have not revealed it to any soul brea-| thing; but now I'll tell your excellency;" and sorelatedi the passage in Flanders; and added — ** I have been ever since beating my brains to know how to get an equall revenge of him, for making me old before my time." The duke was so well pleased with the story, and the wittiness of the revenge,that he made them both friends. 208 On Hygieine^ or the art OF ENVY. — Malicious Envy rode Upon a ravenous wolf, and still did chew Between his canker'd teeth, a ven'mous toad. That all the poison ran about his jaw: But, inwardly, he chew^cd his own maw At neighbour's wealth, that made him ever sad: For death it was when any good he saw, And wept, that cause of weeping none he had. * « But when he heard of harm, he waxed wond'rous glad. He hated all good works, and virtuous deeds. And him no less that any like did use; And who with gracious bread tlie hungry feeds. His alms, for want of faith, he doth accuse; So every good to bad he doth abuse; And eke the verse of famous poets' wit. He does backbite, and spiteful poison spews From lep'rous mouth on all that ever writ: Such one, vile Envy was. Spenser. To repine at the superior happiness of others, is the nature of Envy. It arises from self-love or self-interest, particularly in such individuals whom nature has denied certain qualifications of body or mind, which they cannot avoid seeing in others. It is almost the only vice which is practicable at all times, and in every place; the only passion which can never lie quiet for want of irritation; its effects are, therefore, every way discoverable, and its attempts al- ways to be dreaded. Envy commands a secret band, With sword and poison in her hand. Around her haggard eye-balls roll, A thousand fiends possess her soul. The artful, unsuspected spright, With fatal aim attacks by night. of Preserving Health* 209 Her troops advance with silent tread, And stab the hero in his bed; Or shoot the wing'd malignant liCy And female honours pine or die. Cotton. Solomon emphatically styles Envy, a rottenness of the bones," and we too often witness its baneful effects on those who cherish the fatal poison. It shows itself in horrors even on the face of young females, who, it might be supposed, could not possess so odious a pas- sion. Observe an envious girl, who, while pleased vvi^h herself, appears quite beautiful and pleasing in her man- ners; but on the appearance of one of her sex, c school* mate, of superior beauty and endowments, her counte- nance becomes strangely altered. In like manner the spi- rits become depressed; and, as the body cannot remain undisturbed, when the mind, to w hich it is so nearly at- tached, is in such misery, the person who is tormented with it cannot enjoy good health. For it is the passion of the damned; and, as it richly deserves punishment, it never escapes it. There died not long since, a young lady, who, for some time before her death, appeared to be lingering and melancholy. Her appetite failed, her flesh withered away, and her dissolution seemed at hand. One day she called her intimate friends to her bed-side, and spoke to the following eftect; '* I know you all pity me; but, alasl I am not worthy of your pity, for all my misery is en- tirely owing to the wickedness of my own heart. I have two sisters; and I have all my life been unhappy for no other reason but because of their prosperity. When we were young, I could neither eat nor sleep in comfort, if they had either praise or pleasure. As soon as they were grown to be women, they married greatly to their ad- vantage and satisfaction: this galled me to the heart; and though I had several good offers, yet, thinking them 2D 210 On HygicmCy or the art rather unequal to my sisters, I refused them, and then %vas inwardly vexed and distressed, for fear I should get no better. I never wanted for any thing, and might have been happy, but for this wretched temper. My sis- ters loved me tenderly, for I concealed from them as much as possible this odious passion; and yet never did any poor wretch lead so miserable a life as I have done, for every blessing they enjoyed was a dagger to my heart. 'Tis this envy, which, preying on my very vitals, has ruined my health, and is now conveying me down to the grave. Pray for me, that God of his infinite mercy may forgive me this horrid sin; and with my dying breath I conjure you all to check the first risings of a passion that has proved so fatal to me." Plutarch compares envious persons to cupping- glasses, which ever draw the worst humours of the body to them: they are like flies, which resort only to the raw and corrupt parts of the body; or, if they light on a sound part, never leave blowing upon it till they have disposed it to putrefaction. When Momus could find no fault with the face in the picture of Venus, he picked a quarrel with her slippers: and so these malevolent persons, when they cannot blame the substance, will yet represent the circumstance of men's best actions with prejudice. The black shadow is still observed to wait upon those that have been the most illustrious for virtue, or remarkable for some kind of perfection: and to excel in either has been an unpardonable crime. " The man who envies, must behold with pain Another's joys, and sicken at his gain: The man unable to control his ire, Shall wish undone, what hate and wrath inspire. Anger's a shorter frenzy, then subdue Your passion, or your passion conquers you; Unless your reason holds the guiding reins, And binds the tyrant in coercive chains."^ of Preserving Health. 211 When Aristides, so remarkable for his inviolable at- tachment to justice, was tried by tl^e people at Athens and condemned to banishment, a peasant who was un- acquainted with the person of Aristides, applied to him to vote against Aristides. Has he done you any wrong," said Aristides, " that you are for punishing him in this manner?" No," replied the countryman, I don't even know him; but I am tired and angry with hearing every one call him the just, Mutius, a citizen of Rome, was noted to be of such an envious and malevolent disposition, that Pub- lius, one day observing him to be very sad, said, " either some great evil has happened to Mutius, or some great good lo another." Cambyses, king of Persia, seeing his brother Smer- dis draw a stronger bow than any of the soldiers in his army was able to do, was so inflamed with envy against him, that he caused him to be slain. Maximianus the tyrant, through envy of the honours conferred on Constantine, and the virtues attributed to him by the people, contrived all that a desperate envy could invent, and a great virtue surmount. He first made him general of an army, which he sent against the Sarmatians, supposing he would there lose his life. The young prince went thither, returned victorious, leading along with him the barbarian king in chains. On his return from this battle, the tyrant engaged him in a perilous encounter with a lion, which he purposely had caused to be let loose upon him. But Constantine, victorious over lions as well as men, slew him with his own hand, and impressed an incomparable opinion in the minds of his soldiers, which easily gave him a pas- sage to the throne, by the same degrees and means which were prepared for his ruin. Medicines cannot cure a disease so odious; education and improvement of morals are its only antidotes. En* 212 On Hygieine^ or the art vious persons commonly give too much importance to trifles; hence they, ought to be instructed to employ themselves in more useful pursuits; to judge of things according to their true value, and to accustom them- selves to a philosophic calmness; they ought to learn how to overcome, or at least to moderate, their selfish- ness; to counterbalance their expectations with their deserts; and to equal or surpass others in their merits, rather than in their pretensions. OF AVARICE. And, Oh! what man's condition can be worse Than his, whom plenty starves and blessiTjgs cur$e? The beggars but a common fate deplore; The rich poor man's emphatically poor. If cares and troubles, envy, grief, and fear, The bitter fruits be what fair riches bear. If a new poverty grows out of store. The old plain way, ye Gods! let me be poor. Cowley* This vile passion, which frowns at the approach of the stranger, clinches the hand against the poor, denies, all encouragement of public good, and can pinch and starve wife and children, is hardly more detestable in a moral point of view, than it is pernicious in a physical. It is true, that by his unwillingness to part with his money, the miser is generally a temperate and even an abstemious character, and so far his vice is beneficial to his health. But in many other respects this detestable vice operates very hurtfully to the health of him who is cursed with it. By the extreme eagerness to make money, by the distressing fears about keeping it, by the incon- solable grief for losing it; besides the heart-aches, the envies and jealousies, the sleepless nights, wearisome days, and numberless other ills which it inflicts on its of Preserving Health. 213 • slaves, it often ruins their health, and brings them down to the grave by some lingering disease, or more horri- ble suicide. History tells us of illustrious villains; but there never was an illustrious miser in nature. The great and learned Hippocrates wished a consul- tation oif all the physicians in the world, that they might advise together upon the means how to cure covetous- ness. It is now above two thousand years ago since he had this desire; and after him a thousand and a thousand philosophers have employed their endeavours to cure this insatiable dropsy. All of them have lost their la- bours therein; the evil rather increases than declines under the multitude of remedies. There have been a number in former ages sick of it; and this wide hospital of the world is still as full of such patients as ever it was. A rich cotton planter in Georgia, in consequence of losing two cents in the pound on a crop of cotton, was seized with such a sadness of heart, that he took to his bed, and refusing to be shaved, shirted, or to take suit- able nourishment, died miserable. He was a bachelor, and his estate, on appraisement, amounted to nearly one hundred thousand dollars! In York county, Pennsylvania, a farmer, so wealthy as to raise one hundred bushels of clover seed on his own lands, in consequence of losing five dollars per bushel on his clover seed, that is only getting seven dol- lars in Philadelphia, after he had been offered twelve for it at home, was struck with such a deadly heart anguish, that he went into a fit of despondence and hung himself. After his death, silver to the amount of two hundred thousand dollars was found barreled up in his cellar! Cardinal Angelot was so basely covetous, that by a private way he used to go into the stable, and steal the oats from his own horses. On a time, the keeper of his horses going into the stable in the dark, and finding him 214 On Hygieine^ 6r the art there, taking him for a thief, beat him soundly: he was , also so hard to his servants, that his chamberlain, watch- ing his opportunity, slew him. Lewis the Eleventh, in fear of his father Charles the Seventh, abode in Burgundy, where he contracted a familiarity with one Conon, an herbman: succeeding his father in the kingdom, Conon took his journey to Paris, to present the king with some turnips, which he had observed him to eat heartily of when he sometimes came from hunting: in the way, hunger constrained him to eat them all up, save only one of an unusual bigness,* and this he presented to the king. The king, delighted with the simplicity of the man, commanded him a thousand crowns, and the turnip, wrapt up in silk, to be reserved among his treasures. A covetous courtier had observed this; and having already in his mind devoured a greater sum, brought a very handsome horse, and presented him to the king, who cheerfully accepted the gift, and gave orders that the turnip should be brought him: when unwrapt, that it was seen what it was, the courtier complained that he was deluded: No," said the king, here is no delusion; thou hast that which cost me a thousand crowns, for a horse that is scarcely to be valued at a hundred.'' Nitocris, queen of Babylon, built her sepulchre over the most eminent gate in that city; and caused to be en- graved upon her tomb, What king soever comes after me, and shall want money, let him open this sepulchre and take thence so much as he pleases: but let him not open it unless he want, for he shall not find it for his advantage." Darius, long after, finding this inscription, broke open the sepulchre: but, instead of treasure, he only found this inscription within: " Unless thou wert a wicked man, and basely covetous, thou wouldst never have violated the dormitories of the dead." of Preserving Health. 215 OF INTEMPERANCE. We curse not -yine—\\ie followed her, with a chopping knife in his hand, with which he struck at her wrist, and cut her very much; no help being near but an old woman, who durst not interpose, fearing for her own life, who prayed her mistress to stay and be quiet, hoping all w^ould be well, and so getting a napkin, bound up her hand with it. After this, still railing and raging at his wife, he struck her on the forehead with an iron cleaver, whereupon she fell down bleedin,^:; but recovering her- self, upon her knees she prayed unto God for the par- don of her own and her husband's sins, praying God to forgive him as slie did. But as she was thus praying, the infernal demon, her husband, split her skull open with the cleaver, so that she died immediatelv: for which he was apprehended, condemned, and hanged. But so callous was the wretch, that even under the gal- lows he did not exhibit any marks of repentance. Retreat then from your dishonourable courses, ye who by licentiousness, extravagance, and vice, are abusers, of the world! You are degrading, you are ruining your^ selves. You are grossly misemploying the gifts of Gody and mistake your true interest. Awake, then, to the pursuits of men of virtue and honour. Break loose from that magic circle, within which you are at present held. Reject the poisonous cup which the enchantress Plea- sure holds up to your lips. Draw aside the veil, which 224 On Hygieine^ or the art she throws over your eyes. You will then see other ob- jects than you now behold. You will see an abyss open- ing below your feet. You will see Virtue and Tempe- rance marking out the road which conducts to true felicity. You stand upon eternity's dread brink; Faith and repentance seek with earnest prayer, Despise this world, the next be all your care. Trapp. It is a lamentable fact, so great is the infatuation of this vice, that few, once deluded, have ever after reco- vered their freedom. Some glorious instances, however, have occurred, which is surely fine encouragement to others. We also have liie pleasure to find none are greater enemies to vice, than those who formerly were the slaves of it, and have been so fortunate as to break their chain and recover their liberty. A medical gentleman in Virginia, who was married to a most amiable lady, by associating with dissipated characters, became at length intemperate himself. As soon as he acquired habits of intemperance, his dispor sition was altered, and from an affectionate husband he proved very turbulent, and treated his wife so ill that she was constrained to separate from him. After living a disorderly life for some time, he was brought to a sense of reflection, and with an entire change of mind and manners, he renounced all vicious habits, plead guilty before his amiable wife, who was ready to forgive, and thev have since lived in the utmost harmonv. So sensi- ble is he of the danger of using spirituous and vinous liquors to excess, that he will not taste them, lest he should be enticed to exceed the bounds of moderation; and whenever he sees a person so inclined, never fails to caution him against so insidious an enemy. of Preserving Health, 225 A gentleman in Maryland, who was addicted to drunkenness, hearing a considerable uproar in his kitchen one night, felt the curiosity to step without noise to the door, to know what was the matter; when, behold, they were all indulging in the most unbounded roars of laughter, at a couple of his negro boys, who were mimickmg himself in his drunken fits! — as, how he reeled and staggered; l#iv he looked and nodded, and hickupped and tumbled! The pictures which these children of nature drew of him, and which had filled the rest with such inexhaustible merriment, struck him with so salutary a disgust, that from that night he be- came perfecdy a sober man, to the inexpressible joy of his wife and children. A very respectable gentleman in Philadelphia, had a wife who, by her fondness for strong drink, had almost broken his heart. At length he was advised, *' as a des- perate remedy in a desperate disease," to place a barrel of spirits in her closet, and let her kill herself as soon as possible, since every persuasive means had been used in vain to break her of this beastly vice. At the sight of so extraordinary a visitant in her closet, she was struck with such horror at the idea of the dreadful design on which it was placed there, that she was immediately re- claimed, and recovered all the purity and lustre of her former character, to the infinite joy of her husband, children and numerous friends. Colonel Gardiner^ a gentleman of fortune, who, to all the advantages of a liberal and religious education, added every accomplishment that could render him most agree- able; early entered into the army, and was soon called into actual service, at which time he behaved with a gallantry and courage which will always give a splendour to his name among the British soldiery, and render him, in this respect, an example worthy of their imitation. But, alas! amidst all the intrepidity of the martial hero, yoxx see him vanquished by the blandishments of plea- sure, and plunging into the most criminal excesses. 2F 226 On Hygieine^ or the art Before he had attained the age of twenty-two, he fought three duels. In the battle of Ramillies, he was shot through the neck, and by a singular intervention, as it were of Providence, when the strippers of the dead came to him, and had taken up an instrument, wholly to abolish life, being faint and speechless from loss of blood, a friar interfered, and some spirits being given him, he was revived, and#iade prisoner. He still, how- ever, lived without a sense of God or religion. After his exchange he rose gradually in the army, till at last he became aid-de-camp to Lord Stair. He then went to Paris during the reign of the Duke of Orleans, and lived in a court, the most dissolute in the world. What, by a wretched abuse of words, is styled gallantry, was the whole business of his life; and his fine constitution, fascinating person, and elegant address, gave him full opportunity of indulging in every excess, so that he generally went by the name of the happy Englishman. When returning to England, as he was going post upon a French horse, the animal fell vvidi him, and he was picked up for dead. When in the packet-boat, a few weeks after, a violent storm arose, and the vessel was in so much danger, that the captain us ged all to prayers. It was then tiiat colonel Gardiner first seriously consi- dered the follies and crimes he had been guilty of; that he was not sent into the world for nought; that he had neglected the part assigned him; had degraded his own nature; and, instead of being useful, had been hurtful among those with whom he had acquaintance. What account had he to give to his Maker? Self- condemned, polluted by so many crimes, how was he to find mercy in the sight of God? Hence an overwhelmed and de- jected mind; hence that wounded spirit, which who can bear? His prayer was long and fervent, and troubled with many tears. The mercy of God was again shown him, but among his giddy and dissolute companions, he j soon afterwards endeavoured to excuse himself the scandal of " having prayed." Some time after, having made an assignation with a married lady, to kill time, he went to a neighbour's house, and the master being sud' of Preserving Health. 227 denly called out, he stumbled upon a book which was called the Christian Soldier; as the hour was not yet ar- rived, he took up this book, and from the title had the curiosity to dip into it. Some passages struck his atten- tion, and he read on till he fell asleep. He dreamt he saw an unusual blaze of light poured upon the book, and he afterwards had a strong visual representation of the Lord Jesus Christ upon the cross, surrounded on all sides with glory, who addressed him as an ungrateful sinner, despising the numerous mercies shown him." When he awoke, the impression was so vivid, that he could scarce conceive it had been a dream; he then looked back with horror on his past life; he would fain have kneeled down and asked pardon of God, but he thought he was a monster as yet too vile to supplicate Heaven. He never once rememl)ered the assignation, but went home, and passed this and the three succeed- ing nights without the refreshment of sleep, in fasting and prayer. His mind was continually taken up in re- flecting on the Divine purity and goodness; the grace which had been proposed to him in the Gospel, and which he had rejected; the singular advantages he had enjoyed and abused; the many mercies he had received and despised; with the vain folly of that career of plea- sure, which he had been running with desperate eager- ness: all roused his indignation against the great De- ceiver, by whom, to use his own expression, he had been so wretchedly befooled!" Thus the whole frame and disposition of his soul was new-modelled and changed; and he became, and continued to the last, a most pious and exemplary Christian. Repent, believe, and mourn your errors past, And live each day as though it were your last. Rural Christian. O Tempera7ice! thou support and attendant of other virtues! Thou preserver and restorer of health! Thou maintainer of the dignity and liberty of rational beings, from the wretched, mhuman slavery of Sensuality, 228 On Hy^ieine^ or the art Taste, Custom, and Example! Thou brightener of the understanding and memory! Thou sweetener of life and all its comforts! Thou companion of reason, and guar- dian of the passions! Thou bountiful rewarder of thy admirers and followers! how do thine excellencies extort the unwilling commendations of thine enemies! and with what rapturous delight can thy friends raise up a panegyric in thy praise! OF VANITY. So weak are huinari kind by Nature made. Or to such weakness by their vice betray'd; Almight . VA> n y1 to thee they owe Their zest of pleasure, and their balm of woe. Young. Vanity consists of an agreeable reverie; and is well ridiculed in the story of Narcissus, who so long con- templated his own beatiful image in the water, that he died from neglect of taking sustenance. On the green margin sits the youth, and laves His floating train of tresses in the waves; ^ Sees his fair features paint the streams that pass, And bends for ever o'er the watery glass. Darwin. As the vain found their claims on qualities which they do not possess, they frequently meet with mortifi- cations; while their extreme solicitude for distinctions they are not entitled to, can never allow them any re- pose; hence vanity is an enemy to health. of Preserving Health, 229 Observe a lady at a ball, anxious to be thought the finest woman in the assembly, and doubrful of success. The pleasure, which it is the purpose of die assembly to enjoy, is lost to her. She does not for a momtnt ex- perience such a sensation; for it is totally absoibed by the prevailing sentiment, and the pains that she takes to conceal it. She watches the looks, the most trivial marks of the opinion of the company, with the attention of a moralist, and the anxiety of a politician; and wishing to conceal from every eye the torments she fetls, her affec- tation of gaiety at the triumph of a rival; tlie turbu- lence of her conversation when that rival is applauded; the over-acted rep^ard which she expresses for her; and the unnecessary efforts which she makes, betray her suf- ferings and her constraint. Grace, that supreme charm of beauty, never displays itself but when the mind is perfectly at ease, and when confidence prevails. Uneasi- ness and restraint obscure those advantages which we possess; the countenance is contracted by every pang which self love occasions. We very soon discover the change; and the vexation the discovery produces, still augments the evil which it is desirous to repair. Vexa- tion increases upon vexation, and the object is rendered more remote by the very desire of possession. In this picture too, which, we should think, ought only to re- mind us of the caprices of a child, we recognize the sufferings of maturer age, the emotions which lead to despair, and to a detestation of life. Dominicus Sylvius, Duke of Venice, married a gen- tlewoman of Constantinople. She plunged into sen- suality with so much profusion, that she could not en- dure to lodge but in chambers full of delicious perfumes; she would not wash herself but in the dews of heaven, which must be preserved for her with much skill: her garments were so pompous, that nothing remained but to seek for new stuffs in heaven, for she had exhausted the treasures of earth: her viands were so dainty, that all the mouths of kings tasted none so exquisite; nor would she touch her meat but with golden forks and 230 On HygieinCj or the art precious stones. God, to punish this pride and super- fluity, cast her on a bed, and assailed her with a malady so stinking and frightful, that all her nearest kindred were forced to abandon her; and none stayed about her but a poor old woman, thoroughly accustomed to stench and death. The delicate Seniora was infected with her own perfumes in such a manner, that from all her body there began to drop a most stinking humour, and a kind of matter so filthy to behold, and so noisome to the smell, that every man plainly perceived that her dis- solute and excessive daintiness had caused the infection in her. If a beautiful, proud, and gay woman, would but se- riously reflect on what a loathsome carcase she must ere long become in the grave, amidst worms and corrup- tion, it would tend to mortify her pride, lessen her va- nity, and teach her to be humble. Ye proud, ambitious, wealthy, young, and gay, Who drink the spirit of the golden day, And triumph in existence, come with me, And in the mould'ring corpse your picture see, What you, and all, must soon or later be. Solitary Walks. Pride, well placed and rightly defined, is of ambigu- ous signification, says the late incomparable Marquis of Halifax; one kind ot it is as much a virtue as the other is a vice. But we are naturally so apt to chose the worst, that it has become dangerous to commend the best side of it. Pride is a sly^ insensible enemy, that wounds the soul unseen, and many that have resisted other formi- dable vices, have been ruined by this subtle invader; for, though we smile to ourselves, at least ironically, when flatterers bedaub us with false encomiums; though we seem many times angry, and blush at our praises; yet our souls inwardly rejoice; we are pleased with it, of Preserving Health. 231 and forget ourselves. Some are proud of their quality, and despise all below it; first, set it up for the idol of a vain imagination, and then their reason must fall down and worship it. They would have the world think, that no amends can be made for the want of a great title. They imagine, that with this advantage, they stand upon the higher ground, which makes them look down upon merit and virtue as things inferior to them. Some, and most commonly women, are proud of their fine clothes; and when they have less wit and sense than the rest of their neighbours, comfort themselves with the reflection that they have more lace. Some ladies put so much weight upon ornaments, that if one could see into their hearts, it would be found that even the thought of death was made less heavy to them, by the contemplation of their being laid out in state, and honourably attended to the grave. The man of letters is proud of the esteem the world gives him for his knowledge; but he might easily cure himself of that disease, by considering how muchjearning he wants. The military man is proud of some*reat action performed by him, when possibly it was more owing to fortune than his own valour or con- duct: and some are proud of their ignorance, and have as much reason to be so as any of the rest; for they be- ing also compared with others in the same character and condition, will find their defects exceed their acquisi- tions. O, sons of earth! attempt ye still to rise, By mountains pil'd on mountains to the skies? Heaven still with laughter the vain toil surveys, And buries madmen in the heaps they raise. Pope. Hannibal was so exalted with the victory he had won at Cannas, that afterwards he admitted not any of the citizens of Carthage into his camp, nor gave answer to any but by an interpreter. Also, when Maherbal said,at his tent door, That he had found out a way whereby 232 On Hygieine^ or the art in a few days, if he pleased, he might sup in the capi- tol," he despised him. So hard is it for felicity and mo- deration to keep company together. Alcibiades had his mind exceedingly puffed up with pride, upon the account of his riches and large posses- sions in land; which, when Socrates observed, he took him along with him to a place where was hung up a map of the world, and desired him to find out Attica in that map; which, when he had done, Now," said he, '* find me out your own lands:" and when he replied, that " They w«^re not all set down;" " How is it then," said Socrates, ** that thou art grown proud of the pos- session of that which is no part of the earth." A person of infinite wit, speaking of what might pre- cisely be called a proud and vain man, once said, *' When I see hini, I feel somethug like the pleasure of seeing a happy couple; his self-love and he live so happily together.'^ ^ I once saw, says Dr. Darwin, a handsome young man, who had been so much flattered by his parents, that his vanity rose so near to insanity, that one might discern, by his perpetwal attention to himself, and the difficulty with which he arranged his conversation, that the idea of himself intruded itself at every comma, or pause of his discourse. I dreamt that, buried with my fellow clay, Close by a common beggar's side I lay; And as so mean an object shoek'd my pride, Thus like a corpse of consequence I cried: Scoundrel, begone! and henceforth touch me not, More manners learn, and at a distance rot. *' Scoundrel, then," with haughtier tone cried he, " Proud lump of earth, I scorn thy words and thee; of Preserving Health. 233 Here all are equal, now thy case is mine, This is my rotting place, and that is thine." DoOD. The cure of vanity may be attempted by excess of flattery, which will at length appear ridiculous, or, by its familiarity, will cease to be desired. I remember, says Dr. Darwin, to have heard a story of a nobleman, in the court of France, who was so disagreeably vain in conversation, that the king was pleased to direct his cure, which was thus performed. Two gentlemen were directed always to attend him; one was to stand behind his chair, and the other at a respectful distance before him: whenever his lordship began to speak, one of them always pronounced, " Lord Gallimaufre is going to say the best thing in the world." And, as soon as his lord- ship had done speaking, the other attendant pronounced. Lord Gallimaufre has spoken the best thing in the world." Till, in a few weeks, this noble lord was so disgusted with praise, that he ceased to be vain, and his majesty dismissed his keepers. OF MODESTY- Hait., Modesty I fail* female honour h&U! Beauty's chief oniamer.ty without whose charms Beauty disgusts, or gives but vulg-ar joys. Thou gii/st the smile its grace; the heightened kiss Its balmy essence s-^ceetf Armstronc. Modesty is to virtue, what a fine veil is to beauty. It is one of the most distinguishing and attractive cha- racteristics of the female sex. It comprises the beauties of the mind, as well as those of the body; and it not only heightens the desire of the male, but deters him 2G 234 On Hygieine, or the art from rudeness and improper behaviour It is, therefore, the interest of the men to cherish, and not to injure, by indelicacy, a quality from which they derive so much pleasure and advantage. I remember, says a female author of great distinction, the count M , one of the most accomplished young men in Vienna, when I was there; he was passionately in love with a girl of peerless beauty. She was the daugh- ter of a man of great rank and influence at court; and, on these considerations, as well as in regard to her charms, she was followed by a multitude of suitors. She was lively and amiable, and treated them all with an affa- bihty which still kept them in her train, although it was generally known that she had avowed a predilection for the count, and that preparations were making for their nuptials. The count was of a refined mind and delicate sensibility; he loved her for herself alone; for the virtues which he believed dwelt in her beautiful form; and, like a lover of such perfections, he never approached her wiihout timidity; and when he touched her, a fire shot through his veins that warned him not to invade the vermilion sanctuary of her lips. Such were his feelings, when, one night, at his intended flither-in-law's, a party of young people were met to celebrate a certain festi- val; several of the young lady's rejected suitors were present. Forfeits were one of the pastimes, and all went on with a grateful merriment, till the count was com- manded, by some witty Mademoiselle, to redeem his glove by saluting the cheek of his intended bride. The count blushed, trembled, advanced to his mistress, re- treated, advanced again — and iit last, with a tremor that shook every fibre in his frame, with a modest grace, he put the soft ringlets, which played upon her cheek, to his lips, and retired to demand his redeemed pledge, in evident confusion. His mistress gaily smiled, and the game went on. One of her rejected suitors, but who was of a merry, unthinking disposition, was adjudged by the same indiscreet crier of the forfeits, to snatch a kiss from the lips of the object of his recent vows. A of Presemng Health, 235 lively contest between the lady and gentleman lasted for a minute! but the lady yielded, though in the mids^ of a convulsive laugh. And the count had the mortification, the agony, to see the lips, which his passionate and de- licate love would not allow him to touch, kissed with roughness by another man, and one whom he despised. Without a word, he rose from his chair, and left the room, and the house — and never saw her more! Thus, by that good-natured kiss, the fair boast of Vienna lost her husband and her lover. " Learn, then, ye fair, to keep the person sacred; like the pure mind, Be that array 'd in modest dignity: Nor e'en its beauties flauntingly expose — Thus may ye keep the heart your charms have won. The attractive grace and powerful charm of Modesty, cannot be better illustrated, than by relating the follow- ing interesting narrative. Charlotte Corday was tall and well- shaped, of the most graceful manners and modest demeanour; there was in her countenance, which was beautiful and enga- ging, and in all her movements, a mixture of softness and dignity, which were evident indications of a hea- venly mind. She came to Paris, and under a feigned pretext gained admission to that republican tyrant, Marat, in whose breast she plunged a dagger, acknowledged the deed, and justified it, by asserting that it was a duty she owed her country and mankind, to rid the world of such a monster. Her deportment during her trial was modest and dignified. There was so engaging a softness in her countenance, that it was difficult to conceive how she could have armed herself with sufficient intrepidity to execute the deed. Her answers to the questions of the tribunal, were full of point and energy. She sometimes surprised the audience by her xvit, and excited their ad- miration by her eloquence. Her face sometimes beamed 236 On Hygieine, or the art with suhlimity, and was sometimes covered with smiles. She retired while the jury deliberated on their verdict; and when she again entered the tribunal, there was a majestic solemnity in her demeanour, which perfectly became her situation. She heard her sentence with at- tention and composure, and left the court with serenity^ her mind being long before prepared even for the last scene. It is difficult to conceive the heroism which she displayed in the way to execution. There was such an air of chastened exultation thrown over her countenance, that she inspired sentiments of love, rather than pity. The spectators, as she passed, uncovered their heads before her, and others gave loud tokens of applause. She ascended the scaffold with undaunted firmness. When the executioner informed her that her feet must be tied to the fatal plank, she submitted with a smile. When he took off her handkerchief, the moment before she bent under the fatal stroke, she blushed deeply; and her head, which was held up to the multitude the moment after, exhibited the last impression of offended modesty. Such an instance of a young female, given up to de- struction, and yet so tremblingly alive to modesty, that even in her last moments she resents the slightest insult to that, more than she dreads the executioner's axe, is a display of the charm, as well as the force of virtue triumphant over death, that deserves to be preserved in everlasting remembrance. Its effects on the crowd beggared all description. Admiration held the gazing thousands mute. And though, while gazing on her cheeks yet divinely enriched with the blush of deathless modesty, they shed their tears over her untimely fate; still their joy-glistening eyes seemed to thank her for such a proof of the divinity of virtue, and the birthright of innocence to heaven. One of the spectators, a young man, by the name of Lux, had his feelings wrought to such an adoration of her virtues, that he proposed in a pamphlet published the day after, to erect a monument to her honour, and to inscribe it wdth these words: — GREATER THAN BRUTUS.— He was instantly of Preserving Health, 231 sentenced to the guillotine. He received the news with jov, and died exulting that he had the honour of being offered up at the same ahar with the immaculate Char- lotte Corday, Modesty is one of the chiefest moral virtues in itself, and an excellent stock to graft all others on. Other quali- fications have their abatements agreeable to their use de- signed, and the opinion the world has of their owners; but modesty is a virtue which never feels the weight of censure; for it silences envy by meriting esteem, and is beloved, commended, and approved wheresoever it is found. It is the truest glass to dress by, the choicest di- rector of our discourses, and a sure guide in all our ac- tions. It gives rules in forming our looks, gestures, and conversations; and has obtained such an esteem among the judicious, that though mode or art be wanting, it will either cover, excuse, or supply all defects; because it is guarded by an aversion to what is criminal, an utter dis- like of what is offensive, and a contempt of what is ab- surd, foolish, or ridiculous. It is the great ornament of both sexes; for those that have forfeited their modesty, are reckoned among the worthless, that will never come to any thing but shame, scandal, and derision: and in- deed the deformity of immodesty well considered, is instruction enough, from the same reason, that the sight of a drunkard is a better sermon against that vice, than the best that w^as ever preached upon the subject. The Milesian virgins were in limes past taken with a strange distemper, of which the cause could not then be found out; for all of them had a desire of death, and a furious itch of strangling themselves: many finished their days this way in private: neither the prayers nor tears of their parents, nor the consolation of their friends prevailed; but, being more subtle and witty than those that were set to observe them, they daily thus died by their own liands. It was therefore thought that this dreadful thing came to pass by the express will of the gods, and was greater than could be provided against 238 On Hygieine^ or the art by human industry. At last, according to the advice of a wise man, the council set forth this edict: " That every such virgin as from henceforth should lay violent hands upon herself, should, dead as she was, be carried stark naked along the market-place." By which means not only they were restrained from their killing themselves, but also their desire of dying was utterly extinguished. A strange thing, that those who tremble not at death, the most formidable of all things, should yet through an innate modesty, not be able to conceive in their minds, much less endure a wrong to their modesty, though dead. Plutarch observes, that as thisdes, though noxious things in themselves, are usually signs of an excellent ground wherein they grow; so bashfulness, though many times a weakness and bttrayer of ihe mind, is yet generally an argument of a soul ingenuously and virtu- ously inclined. We read of many, who, through modesty and fear, when they were to speak publicly, have been so disap- pointed, that they were forced to hold Their tongue. Thus Cicero writes of Cario, that being to plead in a cause before the senate, he was not able to speak what he had premeditated. Also, Theoprastus being to speak before the people of Athens, was on a sudden so depri- ved of memory, that he remained silent. The same hap- pened to the famous Demosthenes in the presence of king Philip. Nor are we ignorant that the like misfor- tunes have befallen many excellent persons in our times. An Athenian, of decrepid age, came into the theatre at Athens, on a public night, when it was very much crowded. He went to that part of the house where his young countrymen were sitting, but instead of making room for him, they closed their ranks. By chance he came to the place where sat some young Lacedemonians of the first distinction, who, moved with the age of the of Preserving Health, 239 man, in reverence to his years and hoary hairs, rose up, and placeH him in an honourable seat amongst them; which, when the people beheld, vviih aloud applause, they approved the modesty of another city. At which one of the Lacedemonians said, it appears that the Athenians do understand what is to be done, but they neglect the practice of it." These young Lacedemonians were Heathens. How devoutly were it to be wished, that all young Christians would copv so fair an example, and learn to treat seniori- ty widi a respect equally amiable and endearing. That was a modesty w^orthy of eternal praise, of God- frey of Bulloign. By the universal consent of the whole army he was saluted king of Jerusalem, upon the taking of it out of the hands of the Saracens: there was also brought him a crown of gold, sparkling with jewels, to be set upon his head; but he put it by, saying, " it was most unfit for him, who was a mortal man, a servant, and a sinner, to be there crowned with gems and gold, where Christ, the Son of God, who made heaven and earth, was crowned w^ith thorns." OF DRESS. If the rude verse that now detains your ear, Should to one female heart conviction bear; Recall one gentler mind from Fashion's crew, To give to Nature what is Nature's due; — Whilst others mount the arduous heights of fame. To wake your feelings be my nobler aim: Nor yet unblest, if, whilst I f:ui to move. The fond attempt my kind intention prove. RoscoE. ;i Pliny, one of the most celebrrted naturalists of an- il tiquity, pathetically laments, " that whilst jXature has i given various clothing to the brute creation, and even \ fenced plants and trees with bark against the injuries 4 240 071 Hygmne^ or the art of the cold and heat, she should have cast man into this world naked, unprovided against the inclemency of dif- ferent climates and seasons." But, instead of agreeing with that philosopher, that Nature has, in this particu- lar, acted more like a cruel step-mother, than a kind and indulgent parent to man, we cannot sufficiently extol her providence and wisdom. It was no more than con- sistent with equity to provide the irrational part of her works with clothing suitable to their circumstances; but man, whom she endued with the transcendant faculty of REASON, she hath very wisely left to accommodate himself to the difference of season and climate, and to clothe himself, accordingly, with the fleeces, the skins of animals, and the products of various plants and trees. Mkhvifery was first practised by women. Hence the dressing of children became an art which few could at- tain. Each midwife strove to outdo all others in this pre- tended knowledge. These attempts were seconded by the vanity of parents, who, too often desirous of making a show of the infant as soon as it w^as born, were am- bitious to have as much y^/zm/ heaped upon it as possi- ble. Thus it came to be thought as necessary for a mid* wife to excel in bracing and dressing an infant, as for a surgeon to be expert in applying bandages to a broken \\xv\h\ and the poor child, as soon as it came into the world, had as many rollers and wrappers applied to the throat and body, as if every bone had been fractured in the birth; and these often so tight, as not only to gall and wound its tender frame, but even to obstruct the motion of the organs necessary for life. Nature knows no other use of clothes but to keep the body xvarm. And the pressure of the abdomen by rollers or laced jackets, impedes the action of the stomach and bowels, and the motion necessary for respiration; and consequently the just circulation of the blood. Hence a train of dreadful disorders ensues. The shape God has given, is too often attempted to be mended by dress, and those who know no better, be- lieve that mankind would be frights without its as- sistance. The bones of growing persons are so cartila- of Preserving Health. 241 glnous, that they readily yield to the slightest pressure, and easily assume the mould in which they are con- fined. Hence it is that so many girls, in proportion to boys, are misshapen. A lady who had no girls but were misshapen, though her family was numerous, consulted the celebrated ana- tomist, Mr. Cline, on the prevention. ' To have no stays ^ — and to let the next girl run about like the boys^'*^ was the excellent advice of this gentleman; which being complied with, none of the future children were after* wards marred by the illplaced attention of the ignorant mother. It has been said, observes a celebrated female author, that the love of dress is natural to the sex; and we see no reason why any female should be offended with the assertion. Dress however must be subject to certain rules; be consistent with the graces, and with nature. By attending to these particulars is produced that agree- able exterior which pleases, w^e know not why; v^hich charms, even without that first and powerful attraction, beauty. Fashion, in her various flights, frequently soars be- yond the reach of propriety, Good sense, taste, and delicacy, then make their appeal in vain. Her despotic \ and arbitrary sway levels and confounds. Where is I delicacy? where is policy? we mentally exclaim, when : we see the fair inconsiderate votary of fashion exposino- unseemly, that bosom which good men delight to ima- gine the abode of innocence and truth. Can the gaze of the voluptuous, the unlicensed admiration of the profli- gate, compensate the woman of sentiment and purity, for what she loses in the estimation of the moral and just? But, delicacy apart, what shall we say to the blind conceit of the robust, the coarse, the wanton fair one, who thus obtrudes the ravages of time upon the pub- lic eye? Nature having maintained a harmony between the figure of a woman, and her years, it is decorous that the 2 H 242 On Hygielney or the art consistency should extend to the materials and fashion of her apparel. For youth to dress like age, is an in- stance of bad taste seldom seen. But age affecting the airy garment of youth, the transparent drapery of Cos^ and the sportiveness of a girl, is an anachronism, as frequent as it is ridiculous. Virgin, bridal Beauty, when she arrays herself with taste, obeys an end of her creation; that of increasing her charms in the eyes of some virtuous lover, or the husband of her bosom. She is approved. But when the wrinkled Jair, the hoary-headed matron, attempts to equip herself for conquest, to awaken sentiments which, the bloom of her cheek gone, her rouge can never arouse; then we cannot but deride her folly. There is a mediocrity which bounds all things, and even fixes the standard which divides virtue from bombast. Let us, therefore, in every concern, endeavour to observe this happy temperature. Let the youthful female exhibit, without shade, as much of her bust as shall come with- in the limits of fashion, without entering the borders of immodesty. Let the fair of riper years appear less ex- posed. To sensible and tasteful women, a hint is suffi- cient. Such can never lose sight of that fine sentiment which is so happily expressed by the inimitable Thomson: Loveliness Needs not the foreign aid of ornament; But is, when unadorn'd, adorn'd the most. There are persons who neglect their dress from pride, and a desire to attract by a careless singularity; but^^^ wherever this is the case, depend on it, something is wrong in the mind. Lavater has observed, that persons habitually attentive to their attire, display the same re- gularity in their domestic affairs. Young women, he con- tinues, who neglect their toilet and manifest little con- cern about dress, indicate a general disregard of order; a mind but ill adapted to the details of house- keeping; a of Preserving Health. 243 deficiency of taste, and of the qualities that inspire love: : they will be careless in every thing. The girl of eighteen, ; •who 'desires not to please^ ivdl become a slut or shrew ^ at twenty-five. " Taste," says, Dr. Knox, requires a congruity be- tween the internal character, and the external appear- ance." Another author, the discriminating Chesterfield, observed, that a prepossessing exterior is a perpetual letter of recommendation." Hence we see that the desire of exhibiting an amiable exterior is essentially requisite in women. It is to be re- ceived as an unequivocal symbol of those qualities, which we seek in a wife; it indicates cleanliness, sweet- ness, a love of order, and universal propriety. What, then, is there to censure in a moderate consideration of dress? Nothing. We may blame, when we find extrava- gance, profusion, misappropriation; the tyranny of fash- ion; slavery to vanity; in short, bad taste! Though we cannot hope entirely to escape the un- pleasant sensations, or altogether to ward off the fatal effects occasioned by the sudden changes of our cli- mate; yet, considering properly the nature of clothing, \ve may avoid much of the danger. If ladies are subject to catch cold more frequently than men, it is not alone their delicacy of constitution, or their being more con- fined within doors; but the frequent changes they make in the quality and quantity of their garments, and some- times, however fearful of a partial current of air, be- cause they expose those parts of the body that a little before had been warmly clad. If a greater proportion of females fall victims to consumption, is it not because, losing sight more than men of its primary purpose, says Dr. Beddoes, they regulate their dress solely by fantas- tic ideas of elegance? After the high encomiums bestowed upon flannel by so many respectable authors, both ancient and modern, and by persons who, from long experience, have ascer- tained its beneficial effects, it is surprising that any indi- vidual should be whimsical or hardy enough to dispute On Hygieine^ or the art its gefieral salubrity, merely with a view to establish a favourite hypothesis. It has been objected, that flannel worn next the skin is debilitating, because it too much increases perspira- tion; but this is not founded on truth, since perspiration, as long as the skin remains dry^ never can be hurtful. In answer to another objection against the wearing of jBannel, it is certain that a flannel shirt may preserve the body as clean, and much cleaner, than linen, if as fre- quently change^!. To cold or phlegmatic temperaments; to all who lead a sedentary life; to individuals subject to catarrhs, or frequent colds, gout, diarrhosa, and partial congestions of the blood; to all nervous patients and convalescents from severe chronic disorders; to persons who are too susceptible of the impressions of the atmosphere; and, lastly, in such climates and pursuits of life, as are expo- sed to frequent and sudden changes of air, the wearing of flannel next to the skin is certainly a salutary dress. It will also be found a better preventive of contagion than any other; because, while it encourages perspira- tion, it at the same time removes the inhaled poisonous particles. It is a mistaken notion that flannel is too warm a clothing for summer. I have never found the least in- convenience from wearing it during the hottest weather; but, on the contrary, have experienced the greatest ad- Vantage. A celebrated author's favourite receipt for health was, " to leave off" flannel on mid-summer day, to resume it the day following." To keep an animal in health, beside the retaining of a due degree of animal heat, there must be a continual generation of new juices, and a perpetual discharge of the old. Without the due quantity of perspiration^ which with us depends very much on our clothing, neither the Vegetable nor animal can continue in health: a plant, whose perspiration is stopt, becomes sickly and dies; jjl even an egg, who^e shell has been covered with a var* "I nish, and the perspiration stopt, will produce no animaL of Preserving Health. OF CLEANLINESS. The grand discharge, the effusion of the skin, Slowly impaired, the languid maladies Creep on, and through the sick'ning functions steal; As, when the chilling east invades the spring. The delicate narcissus pines away In hectic languor; and a slow disease Taints all the family of flowers, condemned To cruel heav'ns. But why, already prone To fade, should beauty cherish its own bane] O shame! O pity! nipt with pale quadrille. And midnight cares, the bloom of Albion dies. Armstrong, Cleanliness may be considered the grand secret of preserving beauty, as well as promoting health; and, therefore, is applicable to all ages and sexes. It main- tains the limbs in their pliancy; the skin in its softness; the complexion in its lustre; the eyes in their brightness; the teeth in their purity; and the constitution in its fair- est vigour. The frequent use of tepid baths is not more grateful to the sense, than it is salutary to health, and to beauty. By such ablution, all impurities are thrown off; cutane- ous obstructions removed; and, while the surface of the body is preserved in its original brightness, many threatening disorders are put to the rout. Indeed, so im- portant is this regimen, that every family should make a bathing vessel as indispensable an article in the house as a table. Against the rigours of a damp, cold Heaven, To fortify their bodies, some frequent The gelid cistern; and, where nought forbids, I praise their dauntless heart. With us, the man of no complaint demands 246 On Hygieiney or the art The warm ablution, just enough to clear The sluices of the skin; enough to keep The body sacred from indecent soil. Still to be pure, ev'n did it not conduce, As much it does, to health, were greatly worth Your daily pains. 'Tis this adorns the rich; The want of this is poverty's worst woe; With this external virtue, age maintains A decent grace; without it, youth and charms Are loathsome. This the venal graces know; So, doubtless, do your wives; for married sires, As well as lovers, still pretend to taste; Nor is it less, all prudent wives can tell, To lose a husband's than a lover's heart. Armstrong. Cleanliness is certainly agreeable to our nature. It sooner attracts our regard than even finery itself, and often gains esteem where that fails. It is an ornament to the highest, as well as the lovvxst situation, and can not be dispensed with in either. I had occasion, says the author of the Spectator, to go a few miles out of town, some days since, in a stage- coach, where I had for my fellow-travellers, a dirty beau, and a pretty young quaker woman. Having no inclina- tion to talk much, I placed myself backward, with a design to survey them, and to pick a speculation out of my two companions. Their different figures were suffi- cient to draw my attention. The gentleman was dressed in a suit, the ground whereof had been black, as I per- ceived from some few spaces that had escaped the pow- der which was incorporated with the greatest part of his coat; his periwig, which cost no small sum, was after so slovenly a manner cast over his shoulders, that it seemed of Preserving Health* 247 not to have been combed since the year 1682; his linen, which was not much concealed, was daubed with plain Spanish, from the chin to the lowest button; and the dia- mond upon his finger, which naturally dreaded the water, put me in mind how it sparkled amidst the rubbish of the mine where it was first discovered. On the other hand, the pretty Quaker appeared in all the elegance of cleanliness. Not a speck was to be found upon her. A clean, oval face, just edged about with little thin plaits of the purest cambric, received great advan- tage from the shade of her black hood; as did the white- ness of her arms from that sober- coloured stuff in which she had clothed herself. The plainness of her dress was very well suited to the simplicity of her phrases; all which, put together, gave me an exalted sense both of her good taste and her pure innocence. This adventure occasioned my throwing together a few'hints upon cleanliness, which I shall consider as one of half -virtues, as Aristotle C2i\\s them, and shall re- commend it under the three following heads: As it is a mark of politeness; as it produces regard; and as it bears analogy to purity of mind. First, it is a mark of politeness. It is universally- agreed upon, that no one unadorned with this virtue can go into company without giving a manifest offence. The easier or higher any one's fortune is, this duty arises pro- portionally. The different nations of the world are as much distinguished by their cleanliness, as by their arts and sciences. The more any country is civilized, the more they consult this part of politeness. We need but compare our ideas of a female Hottentot and an English beauty, to be satisfied of what has been advanced. In the next place^ cleanliness may be said to be the foster-mother of love. Beauty, indeed, most commonly produces that passion in the mind, but cleanliness pre- serves it. An indifferent face and person, kept in perpe- tual neatness, has won many a heart from a pretty slat- tern. Age itself is not unamiable, while it is preserved clean and unsullied; like a piece of marble constantly 0 24S On Hygieine^ or the art kept clean and bright, we look on it with more plea- sure than a new vessel that is cankered with rust. We might observe farther, that as cleanliness renders us agreeable to others, so it makes us easy to ourselves; that it is an excellent preservative of health, and that several vices, destructive both to mind and bedy, are inconsistent with the habit of it. We find, from experi- ence, that through the prevalence of custom, the most vicious actions lose their horror, by being made fami- liar to us. On the contrary, those who live in the neigh- bourhood of good example, fly from the first appearance of what is shocking. It fares with us much after the same manner as to our ideas. Our senses, which are the inlets of all the images conveyed to the mind, can only trans- mit the impressions of such things as usually surround them. So that pure and unsullied thoughts are naturally suggested to the mind by those objects that perpetually encompass us, when they are beautiful and elegant in their kind. OF PATRIOTISM- Man, through all ages of revolving time. Unchanging man in every varying clirae, Deems his own land, of every land the pride, Belov'd by Heaven o*er all the world beside; His home a spot of earth supremely blest, A dearer, sweeter spot than all the rest. MOITTGOMERY. Patriotism, properly defined, is the love of the laws and of the commonwealth. It is a sentiment which makes us prefer the interest of the public to our own. At the very name of country, the wise and brave feel an en- thusiasm which renders them invincible. Patriotism also contributes greatly to the promotion of good morals; and hence to health, and every other of Preserving Health, 249 blessing, both private and public. Rome, Athens, and Lacedemon, owed all their glory to patriotism; and their nothingness to their Ibrgetfuiness of their country, their laws, and morals. Happy if these awful lessons, read to us in the ex- amples of the great republics of antiquity, could but avail to kindle among ourselves that divine patriotism which once exalted them to such glory among the na- tions. Among innumerable other blessings, health would then be promoted. For the noble virtues of the soul con- stituting patriotism^ as magnanimity, disinterestedness, valour, and consciousness of doing our duty, Avould diffuse through the heart that habitual complacency and joy most friendly to health; w^hich would be still further promoted by that simplicity of manners, and activity of life, which belongs to Republicans. Whereas, on the contrary, in proportion as national patriotism decays, health becomes enervated by luxuries and other vices, which are sure to overspread a nation that has lost the animating fire of patriotism. John II. king of Portugal, who, for the nobleness of his mind was worthy of a greater kingdom, when he heard there was a bird called a pelican, that tears and wounds her breast with her bill, that with her own blood j she may restore her young ones to life, when left as dead by the bitings of serpents, this excellent prince took care that the figure of this bird, engaged in this action, should be added to his other royal devices; that he might hereby show, that he was ready upon occasion, to part with his own blood for the welfare and preservation of his people and country. Pity it is to conceal their names whose minds have been, in this respect, as pious and princely as his, not fearing to redeem the lives of their fellow- citizens at the price of their own. ' Themistocles, the Athenian general, after his many I famous exploits, was banished the country, and sought after to be slain; he chose, therefore, to put himself ra- ther into the power of the Persian king, his encmv, than 2 I 250 On Hygie'ine^ or the art to expose himself to the malice of his fellow-citizens. He was by him received with great joy; insomuch, that the king, in the midst of his sleep, was heard to cry out thrice aloud, I have with me Themistocles, the Athe- nian." He also did him great honour, for he allotted him three cities for his table- provisions, and two others for the furniture of his wardrobe and bed. While he re- mained in that court with such splendour and dignity, the Egyptians rebelled, encouraged, and also assisted by the Athenians. The Grecian navy was come as far as Cyprus and Cilicia; and Cimon, the Athenian admiral, rode master at sea. This caused the Persian king to levy soldiers, and appoint commanders, to repress them. He also sent letters to Themistocles, then at Magnesia, im- porting that he had given him the supreme command in that affair, and that he should now be mindful of his promise to him, and undertake this war against Greece. But Themistocles was no way moved with anger against his ungrateful countrymen, nor incited to wage war with them by the gift of all his honour and power; for, after having sacrificed, he called about him his friends, and having embraced them, he drank a strong poison, and chose rather to close his own life, than to be an instrument of evil to his native country, which yet had deserved so ill at his hands. Thus died Themistocles in the sixty-fifth year of his age, most of which time he had spent in the management of the republic at home, or as the chief commander abroad. At the siege of Turin by the French army in 1640, a sergeant of the Piedmontese guards signalized himself by a singular example of patriotism; this sergeant guarded with some soldiers, the subterraneous parts of a work of the citadel; the mine was charged, and nothing was wanting but what is called a sausage or pudding, to blow up several companies of grenadiers who served in the work, and posted themselves in it. The loss of the work would have accelerated the surrender of the place. The sergeant, with great resolution, ordered the sol- diers he commanded to retire, begging them to desire of Preserving Health, 251 the king his master to protect his wife and children. He then set fire to the powder, and perished for his country. On the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, in the Ameri- can war, the Loyalist of 22 guns, then in the Chesapeake, became a party in that disastrous event; her crew were conveyed to the Count de Grasse's fleet — of that fleet the Ardent captured off Plymouth, made one, but was then in a very leaky condition. The Count being in- formed that the carpenter of the Loyalist was a man of talents, and perfectly acquainted with the nature of the chain pump, of which the French were ignorant, order- ed him on board the Viile de Paris, and addressed him thus: Sir, you are to go on board the Ardent directly; use your utmost skill, and save her from sinking, for which service you shall have a premium, and the en- couragement due to the carpenter of an equal rate in the British navy; to this I pledge my honour; on refusal, you will, during your captivity, be fed on bread and wa- ter only." The tar, surprised at being thus addressed in his own language, boldly answered; Noble Count, I am your prisoner — it is in your power to confine me; but never let it be said that a British sailor forgot his duty to his king and his country, and entered volunta- rily into the service of the enemy; your promises are no inducement for me, and your threats shall not force me to injure my country." There is a land, of ev'ry land the pride, * Belov'd by heaven o'er all the w^orld beside; Where brighter suns dispense serener light, And milder moons em paradise the night; A land of beauty, virtue, valour, truth, Time-tutor'd age, and love-exalted youth. ' Where shall that land, that spot of earth be found'?' Art thou a man?—^ patriot? — look around; 252 On Ht/gieine, or the art O thou shalt find, howe'er thy footsteps roam, That land thy country, and that spot thy home! Montgomery. As Americans, we feel the love of country, not merely because of the idea that it is the land where we were born, but because it is the land where we enjoy Jree- dom^ and equal rights^ and every blessing that can sweeten lite, and gild it over with glory. Hence we need not have gone back to ancient times to show what men have dared from patriotism. No, thank God! we have in our own country, and in our own days, names as bright as ever adorned the annals of time. The memo- ry of my exulting reader is already flying before me to a host of heroes, who even courted wounds and death for their country. To Lawrence, whose last words were, *'Z)owV give up the shipP^ — to Burrowes, who, when desperately wounded on the deck, said, Iwon^t be carried below; prop me up that I may see my brave men at their gunsP'' — to Lowry Donaldson, who cried, gallant countrymen^ I die^ but don't let the cause of free- dom die with me!'''' — to Daviess, who, on the field of Tippecanoe, smiling in the arms of fate, exclaimed, Thank God, I die in the best of causesP'' — to a common sailor, who, while below, dressing for a mortal wound, and hearing his companions on deck shouting for victo- ry, snatched away the shattered stump of his arm, say- ing, '* Let me go, doctor; I know I am dying; but I must give one huzza more for my country P"* — to Pike, Covington, Gibson, Wood, Holmes, Stoddard, Bea^ey, Mead, Spencer, Wattles, Hoppuck, Bradford, Armi- stead, Vanhorn, Jack, Middleton, Woolfolk, Smith, M'Donough, Blaney, Legate, Yates, Jackson, O'Fling, of the army — to Allen, Ludlow, Wilmer, Funk, Babbit, Hamilton, Howell, Stansbury, Gamble, Cowell, Wil- liams, Brookes, Bush, Broome, of the navy — to Davis, Allen, Lauderdale, Henderson, Graves, Hickman, Hart, M'Cracken, Hooper, Pace, Buel, Hamilton, Evans, Quarles, Brown, Belknap, Blakesley, Clagget, Clemm, of Preserving Health. 253 Rosevelt, Poe, of the militia — and a thousand other Martyrs of Liberty, who all rushed into the battle as if animated by the immortal Washington's in- junction, — " Remember, that you are going to fight for LibertyP^ and who all died rejoicing that they had shed their blood to cement her holy Fabric. " To live with fame the gods allow to many; but to die with equal lustre, is a gift which Heavtn selects from all the choicest boons of fate^ and with a sparing hand on few bestows.^^ OF RELIGION. Yet, though kind Heav*n points out th' unerring road. That leads through nature up to bliss and God; Spiteof that God, and all his voice divine. Speaks to the heai't, or teaches from the shrine, Man, feebly vain, and impotently wise. Disdains the manna sent him from the skies; Tasteless of all that virtue gives to please. For tliought too active, and too mad for ease. From wish to wish in Ufe's mad vortex tost. For ever struggling, and for ever lost; He scorns Religion, though her seraphs call, And lives in rapture, or not lives at all. Cawthorn. Some of my readers may perhaps be surprised, that in a book which professes to treat of Health, I should so far forget the text as to introduce the subject of JReli- gion. But I trust they will cease to wonder when they consider that health is the physical result of nicely ba- lanced appetites and passions, and that there exists no power on earth, that can so attune these into harmony, as Religion, Cast your eye around you, and say whence have sprung most of the diseases, both mental and cor- poreal, but from lack of this divine guardian of man, Religion, By this great name, I do not mean that hy- pocrisy which consist!^ in gloomy faces, nor that narrow 254 On Hygieine, or the art bigotry which rests on particular forms; the one only- shows that religion is very galling to their feelings; the other is but too often false and treacherous, deluding those who behold them, into the opinion of their supe- rior sanctity and virtue. Nor can I entertain a more fa- vourable opinion of those who make a profession of re- ligion and exhibit too much levity. It is a maxim among politicians, that those who know not how to dissem- ble, know not how to rule." But this will not hold in religion, where virtue is at all times to be the guide of our actions. And the wretch who would dissemble be- fore God, is an abominable hypocrite — worse than the Atheist — nay, worse than the beast of the earth. Religion has too often been the mask of dissimulation and hypocrisy, by which many innocent persons have been deluded, then off goes the disguise, and the devil appears in his own likeness. Oliver Cromwell was a hypocrite in perfection; for though he had more than ordinary sense and courage, yet he would whine and cant to admiration, when he found that it would better advance his designs among the fanatics. He was of no one faction in religion, and yet by his deep dissimulation, kept himself the supreme head of them all. He cajoled the Presbyterians, flattered the Independants, caressed the Anabaptists, and kept them in continual jar with one another, that they might have no leisure to unite against'him; and thus accom- plished his diabolical design, of placing himself at the head of the government. There are some sectarians who are so illiberal as to express a belief, that those only of their persuasion are in the right road to heaven! Strange infatuation! Can this be consistent with the Scriptures or reason? The pure spirit of the gospel of Christ breathes forth a holy religion, founded on meekness, charity, kindness, and brotheriy love; but bigotry or any thing like fanaticism has quite a contrary effect. In mental illusion, imagination, when she first begins to exercise her powers, seizes on some fact, of the real nature of which the mind has but an obscure idea, and, of Preserving Health. 255 for want of tracing it through all its connexions and de- pendencies, misleads reason into the darkest paths of error. The wild conjectures, and extravagant opinions which have issued from this source, are innumerable. The voice of the calm inquirer, Reason^ is incapable of being heard amidst the lumuh; and the favourite image is animated and enlarged by the glowing fire of the pas* sions. No power remains to control or regulate, much less to subdue, this mental ray, which inflames the whole soul, and exalts it into the fervour of Enthusiasm , hurries it into the extravagance of Superstition, or pre- cipitates it into the furious frenzies of Fanaticism, The growth of fanaticism, whether religious or po- litical, is not confined exclusively to any age or country; the seeds of it have been but too plentifully sown in all the regions of the earth; and are equally baneful and injurious in whatever soil they spring. Every bold, tur- bulent, and intriguing spirit, who has sufiicient artifice to inflame the passions of the inconstant multitude, the moment he calls the demon of fanaticism to his aid, becomes troublesome, by producing fermentations high- ly detrimental to the peace of society, and frequently dangerous to the government under which he lives. The fire of fanaticism is, indeed, so subtilely power- ful, that it is capable of inflaming the coldest minds. The rapidity of its progress certainly depends, in a great de- gree, on the nature of the materials on which it acts; but, like every dangerous conflagration, its first appear- ances should be watched, and every means taken to ex- tinguish its flames. The extinction is perhaps, most happily and readily effected by those counteractions which the common occupations, and daily duties of life produce on the mind, when judiciously opposed to the flagrant evil. Of the advantages, at least, of this re- source, a circumstance in the history of the late Dr. ^ Fothergill, aflfords a remarkable example. This celebrated physician, says Dr. Zimmerman, possessed the greatest tranquillity of mind, and had ob- tained so complete a dominion over his passions, that he declared to a friend, recently before his death, that he 256 On Hygieine^ or the art could not recollect a single instance, during the whole course of his life, in which they had been improperly- disturbed. This temper, which was perfectly suited to the character of the religion he professed, the tenets of which he strictly practised, he maintained on all occa- sions; nor was there any thing in his general conduct or manner that betrayed to his most familiar friends the least propensity towards enthusiasm; and yet, distant as the suspicion must be, under these circumstances, that he should ever be under the influence of superstition, it is well known, that while he was a student at Edin- burgh, where he was distinguished for the mildness of his manners, and the regularity of his conduct, he one day in an eccentric sally of fanaticism, ran almost en- tirely naked through the streets of that city, warning all its inhabitants of the impending wrath of Heaven, and exhorting them in the most solemn manner, to avert the approaching danger, by humbly imploring the mer- cy of an offended Deity. But this religious paroxysm was of short duration. He was at this time in habits of intimacy with the great characters who then filled the professional chairs of the University, and ardently en- gaged in the pursuits of study; and the exercises which his daily task required, together with the company and conversation of these rational, well-informed, and think- ing men, preserved his reason, and soon restored him to the full and free enjoyment of those faculties, from which both science and humanity afterwards derived so many benefits. " Blest is the man, as far as earth can bless, Whose measur'd Passions reach no wild excess; Who, urged by Nature's voice, her gifts enjoys, Nor other means than Nature's force employs. While warm with youth the sprightly current flows, Each vivid sense with vig'rous rapture glows; And when he droops beneath the hand of age, No vicious habit stings with fruitless rage; of Preserving Health. 257 Gradual his strength and gay sensation cease, While joy s tumultuous sink in silent peace." It is that fervent love of God and man, constituting the heart- gladdening religion of Christ, which I mean. This not only gives a check to our passions, but also ensures a happiness, which is " like a tree, whose leaf shall not fail." The man who loves God, enjoys that first of felicities, the cotisciousness of having placed his affections on the only object that truly deserves them. O! how amiable is gratitude; especially when directed to the Supreme Benefactor. It is the most exalted principle that can ac- tuate the heart of man. When a good man looks around him on this vast world, where beauty and goodness are reflected from every object, and where he beholds millions of crea- tures in their different ranks, enjoying the blessings of existence, he looks up to the Universal Father, and his heart glows within him. And in every comfort which sweetens his own life, he discerns the same in- dulgent hand. Thus it is that gratitude prepares a good man for the enjoyment of prosperity; for not only has he as full a relish as others of the innocent pleasures of life, but, moreover, in these he holds communion with God. In all that is good or fair he traces his hand. From the beauties of nature, from the improvements of art, from the blessings of public or private life, he raises his af- fections to the great Fountain of all the happiness which surrounds him, and this widens the sphere of his enjoy- ments, by adding to the pleasures of sense, the far more exquisite joys of the heart. Adversity is the grand test of what is true and what is false among the different objects of our choice; and our love of God, tried by this, will soon discover its in- finite value and excellence. Persons of every character are liable to distress. The man who loveth God, and he who loveth him not, are alike exposed to the stroke of 258 On Hygieiney or the art adversity. But on the bad man adversity falls with dou- ble weight, because it finds him without defence and without resource. But to the man whose soul rejoices in his God, adversity has nothing gloomy and terrible. Believing every thing in the world to be under the ad- ministration of God, and looking up to that God as to an all- wise and benevolent Father and Friend, he wel- comes every thing that comes from him. If this good- ness of God is so admirably seen in the works of Na- ture, and the favours of Providence, with what a no- ble superiority does it even triumph in the ministry of redemption. Redemption is the brightest mirror in which to contemplate the most lovely attribute of the Deity. Herein God manifests his love for poor sinful mor- tals, in so exalted a manner, that it is beyond parallel; beyond thought; above all blessing and praise. — In- comprehensible love! May it henceforward be the fa- vourite subject of my meditation; more delightful to my musing mind, than applause to the ambitious ear! May it be the darling theme of my discourse; sweeter to my tongue than the dropping of the honey- comb to my taste! May it be my choicest comfort through all the changes of life, and my reviving cordial even in the last extremities of dissolution itself! Religion, as is justly observed by Dr. Dodd, is such a sense of God on the soul, and our obligation to, and de- pendence upon him, as to make it our principal study to do that which we think will be pleasing in his sight, and to avoid every thing which we think will offend him. As he is the fountain of goodness and justice, of course religion must be the foundation of every Christian and moral virtue — to do good to all, and to avoid giving offence to, or injuring willingly, even those who arc enemies and persecutors. It is so far from debarring us of any innocent plea- sure or comfort of human life, that it purifies our en- joyments, and renders them more grateful and generous; and besides this, it brings mighty pleasures of its own. ^ of Preserving Health. 259 those of a glorious hope, a serene mind, a calm and undisturbed conscience, and thus makes us habitually dieerful. Thou, Cheerfulness, by Heaven design'd To sway the movements of the mind; Whatever fretful passion springs, Whatever wayward fortune brings To disarrange the power within. And strain the musical machine; Thou, goddess, thy attempering hand Doth each discordant string command, Refines the soft and swells the strong, And, joining Nature's general song, Through many a varying tone unfolds The harmony of human souls. Akenside. Cheerfulness is consistent with every species of vir- tue and practice of religion. It is an implicit praise and thanksgiving to Providence^ under all its dispensations. It is a kind of acquiescence in the state wherehi we are placed, and a secret approbation of the Divine will in his conduct towards man. As I was betwixt sleeping and waking, says a sub- lime author, I perceived one of the most shocking figures imagination can frame, advancing towards me. She was dressed in black, her eyes deep sunk in her head, and her complexion pale and livid as the counte- nance of death. Her looks were filled with terror and unrelenting severity, and her hands armed with whips and scorpions. As soon as she came near, with a horrid frown, and a voice that chilled my very blood, she bade me follow her. I obeyed, and she led me through rugged paths, beset with briers and thorns, and a deep solitary valley. Wherever she passed, the fading verdure with. 260 On Hy^'ieine^ or the art ercd beneath her steps; her pestilential breath infected the air with malignant vapours, obscured the lustre of the sun, and involml the fair face of Heaven in univer- sal gloom. Dismal bowlings resounded through the fo- rests; from every baleful tree the night raven croaked his dreadfiil note; and the prospect was filled with desolation and horror. In the midst of this tremendous scene, she addressed me in the following manner: "Retire with me, O rash, unthinking mortal, from the vain allurements of a deceitful world, and learn that pleasure was not designed the portion of human life. Man was born to mourriy and to be wretched; this is the condition of all below the stars, and whoever endeavours to oppose it, acts in contradiction to the will of Heaven. Fly then from the fatal enchantments of youth and so- cial delight, and here consecrate the solitary hours to la- nnentarion and woe. Miseri/is the duty of all sublunary- beings, and every enjoyment is an offence to the Deity, who is to be worshipped only by the mortification of every sense of pleasure, and the everlasting exercise of sighs and tears.'* This melancholy picture of life quite sunk my spirits, and seemed to annihilate every principle of happiness within me. I threw myself beneath a blasted yew, where the winds blew cold and dismal round my head, and dreadful apprehensions chilled my heart. Here I resolved to lie till the hand of death, which I impatiently invoked, should put an end to the miseries of a life so deplorably \vrt'tched. In this sad situation, I espied on one hand of me a deep muddy river, whose heavy waves rolled on in slow and sullen murmurs, when I found myself suddenly surprised by the sight ofthe loveliest object I ever beheld. The most engaging charms ofyouth and beauty appeared in all her form; effulgent glories sparkled in her eyes, and their awful splendours were softened by the gentlest looks of complacency and peace. At her approach, the frightful spectre, who had before tormented me, vanished away, and with her all the horrors she had caused. The gloomy clouds brightened in cheerful sun-shinej the groves recovered their verdure; and the whole regior* of Preserving Health. 261 looked J^ay and blooming as the garden of Eden. I was quite transported at the unexpected change, and reviving hope began to glad my thoughts, when, with a look of inexpressible sweetness, my beauteous deliverer thus uttered her divine instructions: <'My name is Religion. I am the ofFsprinc; of Truth \r\dL,Love, and the parent of Benevolence^ Hope^ and Joy, That monster, from whose power I have freed you, is called Superstition; she is the child of Discontent^ and her followers are Fear and Sorrow, Thus, different as we are, she has often the insolence to assume my name and character^ and seduces unhappy mortals to think us the same, till she at length drives them to the borders of despair; that dreadful abyss, into which you were just going to sink. *' Look around, and survey the various beauties of the globe, which Heaven has destined for the seat of the human race, and consider whether a world thus ex- quisitely framed, could be meant for the abode of misery and pain. For what end has the lavish hand of Provi- dence diffused such innumerable objects of delight, but that all might rejoice in the privilege of existence, and be filled with gratitude to the beneficent Author of it? Thus, to enjoy the blessings he has sent, is virtue and obedience; and to reject them merely as means of pleasure, is pitiable ignorance, or absurd perverseness. Infinite goodness is the source of created existence; the proper tendency of every rational being, from the highest order of raptured seraphs, to the meanest rank of men, is to rise incessantly from lower degrees of happiness to higher. They have each faculties assigned them for various orders of delights." What!" cried I, " is this the language of Religion? Does she lead her votaries through flowery paths, and bid them pass an unlaborious life!" " The true enjoy- ments of a reasonable being," answered she, mildly, ** do not consist in unbounded indulgence^ or luxurious ease, the tumult of passions ^ the langour of indulgence^ or the flutter of light amusements. Those are often raised into the greatest transports of joy^ who are sub- 262 On Hygieiney or the art ject to the greatest depressions of melancholy: on the contrary, cheerfulness, though it does not give the mind such an exquisite gladness, prevents us from falling into depths of sorrow. Mirth is like a flash of lightning, that breaks through a gloom of clouds, and glitters for a moment. Cheerfulness keeps up a kind of day-light in the mind, and fills it with a steady and perpetual serenity." Were men sensible of the happiness that results from true religion, the voluptuous man would there seek his pleasure, the covetous man his wealth, and the ambitious man his glory. In vain we seek a Heaven below the sky; The world has false, but flattering charms: Its distant joys show big in our esteem, But lessen still as they draw near the eye; In our embrace the visions die: And when we grasp the airy forms, We lose the pleasing dream. Watts. Let the affections of a man be once softened and dul- cified with Divine love, and he is ever secure from the sudden apoplexies of the passionate, the poisonous cups of the drunkard — the murdering pistol of the duellist — the assassinating dagger of the jealous — the loathsome diseases of the harlot — and the wasting hectics of the gambler. The love of gaming is the worst of ills; With ceaseless storms the blacken'd soul it fills; Inveighs at Heaven, neglects the ties of blood; Destroys the power and will of doing good; Kills health, pawns honour, plunges in disgrace, And, what is still more dreadful — spoils your face. Young. of Preserving Health. 263 Though justice and judgment are called the work of God, yet his mercy, as more natural to him, is said to rejoice against judgment; but these, his attributes, have their alternate courses; for the presumptuous boldness of man grows often to such an excessive height, as to ex- tort a vengeance from his unwilling hands, that by this wholesome severity others may be cautioned against secure sinning, upon the foolish confidence of Heaven's inadvertence, or impotency to punish, A man having spoken slanderous words against a gentleman, who had it in his power to punish him, when accused of the falsehood, to justify himself, said, " If he spoke them, he desired God to send an immediate token of his wrath upon his body, and in case he should defer to do it, he wished the devil might." Immediately he fell down in an apoplectic fit, which he never had be* fore, and continued for seve'-al years to have them. A gentleman of , having lost a considerable sum by a match at cock-fighting, to which practice he was notoriously addicted, swore, in the most horrid manner, that he would never fight another cock as long as he lived; frequently calling upon God to damn his soul to all eternity, if he did; and, with dreadful imprecations, wishing the devil might take possession of him, if ever he made another bet. About two years afterwards, Satan, whose willing servant he was, inspired him with a vio- lent desire to attend a cock-fighting at , and he complied with the temptation. When he came to the place, he stood up, as in defiance of Heaven, and cried, I hold four to three on such a cock." Four, what?" said one of his companions in iniquity. " Four dollars," replied he. " I'll lay," said the other. The wager being confirmed, he put his hand in his pocket for the money, when, awful to relate, he instantly fell a ghastly corpse to the ground. Religion, like the treasure hid in the field, which a man sold all he had to purchase, is of that price, that 264 Ofi HygieinCy or the art it cannot be had at too great a value; since, without it, the best condition of hfe cannot make us happy; and with it, it is impossible we should be miserable, even in the worst. Amongst all the nations, there are none so barbarous and cruel, none so utterly lost to all the sentiments of humanity and civility, but have embraced and continued amongst them the notion of a Deity, or some Being entitled to their adoration. This is a principle so deeply engraven in the very nature of man, that no time, nor change, nor chance, hath ever been able to obliterate it; so, that rather than have nothing to worship, men have often been contented to adore as gods, even the works of their own hands. And, indeed, herein their ignorance and folly is chiefly to be lamented, that they have still made choice of any thing, rather than the true God, to pay their homage and veneration. In the mean time, they shame some of us, in having been more zealous in their superstition, than we are in the true religion. The Athenians consulted the oracle of Apollo, de- manding what rites they should make use of in matters of their religion. The answer was, " The rites of their ancestors." Returning thither again, they said, " The manner of their forefathers had been often changed;" they, therefore, inquired, *' what custom they should make choice of in so great a variety?" Apollo replied, The best." First to the gods thy humble homage pay; The greatest this, and first of laws obey: Perform thy vows, observe thy plighted troth, And let religion bind thee to thy oath. The heroes next demand thy just regard, Renown'd on earth, and to the stars preferr'd, To light, and endless life, their virtue's sure reward. Due rites perform, and honours to the dead, To every wise, to every pious shade. of Preserving Health^ 265 With lowly duty to thy parents bow, And grace and favour to thy kindred show: For what concerns the rest of human kind, Choose out the man to virtue best inclin'd; Him to thy arms receive; him to thy bosom bind. Pythagoras. So great a reverence for religion had the Ethiopian kings in the time of Ptolemy, king of Egypt, that when- soever the priests of Jupiter, who worshipped in Meroe, declared to any individual that his life was hateful to the gods, he immediately put an end to his days. Nor was there any of them found to have had a more tender re- gard to the safety of his own life, than he had a reve- rence for religion, till king Argenes, who, lest the priests should tell him he should die, began with them- selves, put them all to death, and thereby abolished the custom. The Christians were to build a chapel in Rome, wherein to perform service to Almighty God; but they were complained of, and the ground challenged by cer- tain inn- holders in that city. The matter was brought before the emperor, Alexander Severus, who thus de- termined: *' The things," said he, that concern the gods, are to be preferred before the concerns of man; and, therefore, let it be free for the Christians to build their chapel to their God, who, though he be unknown to us at Rome, ought, nevertheless, to have honour done unto him, if but for this respect alone, that he beareth the name of a God." When the Duke of Saxony made great preparations for a war against a pious and devout bishop of Magde- burgh, the bishop, not regarding his defence, applied himself to his episcopal function, in the visiting and well-governing of his church; and when it was told him that the duke was upon his march against him, he replied, 2L 266' On Hygieine^ or the art " I will take care of the reformation of my churches, and leave unto God the care of my safety." The duke had a spy in the city, who, hearing of this answer of the bishop, gave his master a speedy account thereof. The duke having received this information, did thereupon dismiss his army, and desisted from his expedition, say- ing, " he would not fight against him who had God to fight for him." While the colleagues of Constantinus, the Roman emperor, were persecuting the Christians with fire and sword, he politicly pretended to persecute them too; and declared to such officers of his household, and governors of provinces, as were Christians, that he left it to their choice, either to sacrifice to the gods, and by that means preserve themselves in their employments, or to forfeit their places and his favour, by continuing steady in their religion. When they had all declared their option, the emperor discovered his real sentiments; reproached, in the most bitter terms, those who had re- nounced their religion; highly extolled the virtue and constancy of such as had despised the wealth and vani- ties of the world; and dismissed the former with igno- miny, saying, that those who had betrayed their God, would not scruple to betray their prince: while he re- tained the latter, trusted them with the guard of his per- son, and the whole management of public affairs, as persons on whose fidelity he could firmly rely, and in whom he might put an entire confidence. The great Lord Burleigh used to say, " I will never trust any man not of sound religion; for he that is fake to God^ can never be true to ?7ian,^^ Voltaire, a man who, after having long and too justly been considered as the patron of infidelity, and after having shown himself equally the enemy to every reli- gious establishment, at length, to the astonishment of all serious minds, and at the close of a long life of near eighty years, in the most solemn manner, gave tlie con- of Preserving Health. 267 fession of his faith here subjoined; and which is confirm- ed on the oath of several witnesses who were present. "I believe, firmly," says he, '*all the Catholic, Apos- tolic, and I^oman Church believes and confesses. I be- lieve in dhe God, in three Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, really distinguished; having the same nature, the same divinity, and the same power. That the second person was made man, called Jesus Christ, who died for the salvation of all men; who has estab- lished the holy Scriptures. I condemn, likewise, all the heresies the said church has condemned and rejected; likewise all perverted misinterpretations which may be put on them." If a veteran in the cause of infidelity thus closes his life and his works, does it not greatly behoove those who have been deluded and misled by his writings, seriously to look to themselves, and bring home this striking example to their hearts, lest they fall into the condemna- tion which their master seeks thus meanly at the end to avoid? There are many wicked men who will speak unbe- coming things of God in a humour of bravado amidst company, but will tremble before him in solitude, and shudder at the approach of death in sickness. Ah! what is life? with ills encompass'd round, Amidst our hopes, fate strikes the sudden wound: To-day the statesman of new honour dreams, To-morrow death destroys his airy schemes; Is mouldy treasure in thy chest confin'd? Think all that treasure thou must leave behind; Thy heir with smiles shall view thy blazon'd hearse, And all thy hoards with lavish hand disperse. Should certain fate th' impending blow delay, Thy mirth m\\ sicken, and thy bloom decay; 268 On Hygieine, or the art Then feeble age will all thy nerves disarm, No more thy blood its narrow channels warm. Who then would wish to stretch thfs narrow span, To suffer life beyond the date of man? The virtuous soul pursues a nobler aim, And life regards but as a fleeting dream: She longs to wake, and wishes to get free, To launch from earth into eternity. For while the boundless theme extends our thought, Ten thousand thousand rolling years are nought. Gay. Of all the singular virtues which united in the charac- ter of Gustavus Adolphus, of Sweden, that which crowned the whole, was his exemplary piety to God. The following is related of him when he was once in his camp before Werben. He had been alone in the ca- binet of his pavilion some hours together, and none of his attendants at these seasons durst interrupt him. At length, how^ever, a favourite of his, having some im- portant matter to tell him, came softly to the door, and looking in, beheld the king very devoutly on his knees at prayer. Fearing to molest him in that sacred exer- cise, he was about to withdraw his head, when the king espied him, and bidding him come in, said, " Thou wonderest to see me in this posture, since I have so ma- ny thousand subjects to pray for me: but I tell thee, that no man has more need to pray for himself, than he who, being to render an account of his actions to none but God, is, for that reason, more closely assaulted by the devil than all other men beside." When the town of Landshut, in Bavaria, surrendered to him at discretion, the principal inhabitants of it fell down upon their knees before him, and presented him with the keys of their town. Rise, rise," said he; "it is your duty to fall upon your knees to God, and not to so frail and feeble a mortal as I am." of Presemng Health, 269 It was the daily practice of that eminent physician, Dr. Boerhaave, throughout his whole life, as soon as he arose in the morning, which was generally very early, to retire for an hour to private pra} er and m.editation on some part of the Scriptures. He often told his friends, when they asked him how it was possible for him to go through so much fatigue, that it was this which gave him spirit and vigour in the business of the day. This, therefore, he recommended, as the best rule he could give: for nothing, he said, could tend more to the health of the body, than the tranquillity of the mind; and that he knew nothing which could support himself or his fellow- creatures, amidst the various distresses of life, but a well grounded confidence in the Supreme Being, upon the principles of Christianity." From the very respectful mention which I have so frequently made of Religion, some of my readers may be charitable enough to conclude, that I am religious in a high degree. Would to God I were. From my soul I wish that my devotedness to religion had all my life been equal to the exalted opinion which I entertain of it. But, though like most of the human race, I have too often neglected my duty in this respect, yet can I say, before my God, that I look upon religion as the only true glory and happiness of man; and though worlds were thrown into the opposite scale, yet would I not re- linquish the joys, imperfect as they are, which I derive from it. And from this circumstance I have often been led to think, that if I derive so much comfort from the little religion which I possess, how truly enviable, how superlatively happy must they be, whose whole lives are devoted to her service, and whose hearts are perpetually enjoying those sublime pleasures which her unclouded smiles can impart. Arise, my soul, on wings seraphic rise, And praise th' Almighty Sov'reign of the skies; 270 On Hygieine, ^c. In whom alone essential glory shines, Which not the heaven of heav'ns, nor boundless space confines. While this immortal spark of heavenly flame Distends my breast, and animates my frame; To thee my ardent praises shall be borne On the first breeze that wakes the blushing morn: The latest star shall hear the pleasing sound, And nature in full choir shall join around. When full of thee my soul excursive flies Through air, earth, ocean, or thy regal skies; From world to world new wonders still I find, And all the God-head flashes on my mind. When wing'd with whirlwinds,vice shall takeits flight To the deep bosom of eternal night. To thee my soul shall endless praises pay; Join, men and angels, join th' exalted lay I Blacklock. « QF FEVERS IN GENERAL. Under this head are comprehended all fevers what ever, by which the human frame is affected; but, as they arise from a great variety of causes, and affect persons of very dissimilar constitutions, they must of course differ in their nature, and require a very distinct treatment. Two very opposite states of the human body are sup- posed to give rise to fevers, and to form their great and fundamental distinctions. The one is called the phlogis- tic diathesis, or inflammatory disposition; wherein the heart is excited to rapid and strenuous exertions, ma- nifested by great strength in the action of the vessels, while the blood itself exhibits a more florid hue and denser texture than usual. In the other, the brain and nervous system are more directly affected, their energy seems impaired, the force of the heart and vessels is diminished, the blood is of a looser texture, and the fluids tend to dissolution. In the first state, when the inflammation originates from external causes, as wounds, contusions, or burns, 272 Of Fevers in general. the fever follows the local affection, and is in proportion to the degree of inflammation in the part affected. Such fevers are called sijmptj:)niatic. This is also the case hi certain disorders of the lungs, aand other viscera, which arise, not from external inju- ries, but from some vice in the part, which gradually brings on inflammation and fever. If the local inflam- mation is removed, the fever is removed also; if it cannot be subdued, but increases gradually, destroying the organization of the part, the patient dies sometimes by the violence of the fever, and sometimes merely be- cause an organ essential to life is destroyed. Cold is found, by universal experience, to give a dis- position to inflammatory disorders; and heat to those called putrid.^ During the winter, and early in the spring, pleurisies, peripneumonies, quinsies, rheuma- tisms, and inflammatory fevers prevail. Towards the end of summer, and particularly in autumn, fevers of a different nature, with dysenteries and putrid ulcerous sore throats make their appearance. Although it is true in general, that cold occasions a disposition to diseases of an inflammatory nature, and heat to those supposed putrescent, yet, persons who take violent exercise in sultry weather, or who acciden- tally fall asleep on the ground, exposed to the beams of the mid-day sun, are sometimes seized with fevers of a highly inflammatory and dangerous quality; the inflam- mation directly affecting the brain itself, or its mem- branes. The time in which intermittents and remittents arc most prevalent, is the end of summer and beginning of autumn, when heat and moisture combine to hasten the corruption of anifnal and vegetable substances, and fill * We continue this term in obedience to custom, only. For it conveys a false view of what really happens in those fevers. Re- cent experiment, and more accurate observation, have demonstra- ted, that putrefaction never takes place in a living body. The process which sometimes goes on in these malignant fe- vers, has some of the appearances of putrefactionj but it is, in fact* totally distinct. Of Fevers hi general. 273 the atmosphere with miasmata. These considerations reduce it next to a certainty, that something essentially connected with a marshy soil produces fever, and wc can suppose nothing* with so much probability, as the effluvia of stagnant water and corrupting animal and vegetable substances. And if a sudden stoppage of perspiration, from the cold of autumn, after the body is relaxed by the heat of summer, is sufficient of itself to produce fever in dry and well ventilated countries, where there is no reason to think that marsh miasmata prevail, we cannot be sur- prised to find them far more universal and more obsti- nate in low and marshy soils, where the first cause con- curs with the second. A still more active source of fevers is the effluvia from the living human body, which, when long con- fined, becomes in the highest degree acrimonious, and gives rise to diseases the most dangerous and malignant. Whenever numbers of people are crowded together, the air must soon be deprived of its vital ingredient, by re* peated respiration, hence this infectious matter will be formed, but with most rapidity in gaols, in hospitals, in the holds of ships, and in dirty dwellings, where its viru- lent tendency is hastened by nastiness, by unwholesome food, by desponding thoughts, or by the effluvia coming from bodies in a diseased state. It communicates its in- fection not only to those who approach the places in which it is generated, and the human body from which it flows, but also will remain long entangled in beds, blankets, and other articles, which have been in contact with the patient's body, retaining its activity, and capa- ble of infecting others at a considerable distance of time and place, if, unhappily, those contaminated materials are carried abroad. In this manner, one person who is not himself infected, may infect another:-the first person, in such cases, being less predisposed to the disease than the second. Although the infection arising from the living human body, is not perceived to act at a great distance from its direct source; yet it seems most probable that it does not 2 M 274 Intermittent y or immediately lose its virulency; but after it is diffused in the atmosphere, continues in some degree to act in conjunction with the miasmata of marshes, with heat, obstructed perspiration, and the other caiistb of fever, and, according to the various proportions of those causes, combined with the circumstances of season, climate, and the constitution of the patient, the nature of the fever is determined. INTERMITTENT, OR AGUE AND FEVER. Symptoms. Is that fever which has periodically, a clear intermission alternating with a return of its paroxysms. From the length of time between the fits, the species of the fever are distinguished and named. Thus, if the fit returns every day, it is termed a quotidian; if every third, a tertian; if every fouith, a quartan. The ague commences with weakness, frequent stretching, and yawnings, succeded by sensations of cold in the back and extremities, which increases, until the limbs as well as the body become agitated with frequent and violent shivering. This continues for some time, during which a violent pain of the head and back, and a sensation re- sembling a stricture across the stomach, frequently dis- tress the patient; and the sense of coldness is so great, that no endeavours to obtain warmth are of the least avail. These symptoms, subsiding by degrees, give way finally to w^arm flushings, which increase, until redness and heat, much greater than natural, are extended over the whole body; the patient at length burning with such extreme heat, as to be now as solicitous for the refresh- ing sensation of cold, as he was before anxious to miti- gate its violence. After these symptoms have existed for some time, they gradually decline; the thirst goes off, the skin is relaxed, and a moisture breaks out on the head, which soon becomes general and profuse; then it slowly abates, till it entirely ceases. This is the general progress of a regular paroxysm of a well-formed intermittent; the patient is often left, ap- parently, free of disease, until the next attack. Ague and Fever. 275 Causes. The remote causes of ague or autumnal fever are, first, the effluvia which arises from marshes or moist grounds acted on by heat. Secondly, cold, espe- cially when accompanied by moisture, which will ne- cessarily act wiih more certainty, if a predisposition to the disease exists. This predisposition may be induced by living too sparingly, or on trashy food, excessive fa- tigue, impeded perspiration, preceding disease, indul- gence in spiritous liquors, and in fine, by whatever tends to weaken the system and impoverish the blood. Hence the poor are more subject to the disease than the rich; For health consists of spirits and of blood, And these proceed from generous- wine and food.. Pope. Treatment. In the cure of an ague, whether quo- tidian, tertian, or quartan, much the same plan may be followed, which is, as far as possible, to prevent the dis- ease from being habitual; for the longer it continues, the more it weakens the constitution, and disposes the glan- dular viscera, as the liver, spleen, &c. to obstructions, and often prepares the habit for dropsies and other chro- nic diseases. So that although this disease is not very alarming in its appearaiice, yet if injudiciously treated, or neglected, it often draws after it the most serious consequences; and hence merits particular attention. The cure of the disease therefore calls for an emetic, or a dose of calomel and jalap, or salts, senna and manna, to free the bowels of their offending contents; and if the patient be of a full habit, with headach and flushed coun- tenance, the pulse hard and quick, showing an inflam- matory disposition, blood-letting will be highly ne- cessary. Having by these means prepared the system, strength- ening remedies should next be employed. Of these, the Peruvian bark is the most celebrated, and ma} be used with safety in the time of intcrmisbion, provided there exists no swelling or hardness of the viscera. In that 276 Intermittent, or event the bark must be withheld, until these symptoms are rendered milder by the exhibition of gentle laxatives, blisters, and diaphoretic medicines, as the cathartic and saline mixtures, (see Recipe 11 & 14,) whose good ef- fects will be greatly aided by dihient drinks and absti- nence from solid food. As soon as the system is properly prepared for the use of the bark, it may then be exhibited in such doses as the stomach will bear, and at such intervals, that six or eight dor.ei may be taken during the intermission. Should it disagree with the patient in substance, give it in some other form, as the cold infusion, decoction, or tincture. (See Recipe 37. 36. 53.) In the mean time, strict attention must be paid to the habit of body: for in vain shall we expect to cure iniermittents, if the bowels be not kept open and the skin moist. When, therefore, the Peruvian bark produces cos- tivenesSj five or six grains of rhubarb, or some mild purgative, should be added to each dose; and in case of cold phl< gmatic habits, with a dry skin, the addition of ten or fifteen grains of Virginia snake-root is peculiarly proper. In some constitutions the bark produces severe and copious purging. This debilitating effect may be pre- vented by addhig five or six drops of laudanum to each dose. And when the patient is troubled with sourness on the stomach, flatulence and pain, take the bark in lime water, or conjoin with each dose, eight or ten grains of salt of tartar, or magnesia. Some patients are subject to profuse sweats, from debility. In such cases the bark should be united with a few grains of the rust of steel, or ten or fifteen drops of elixir \ itriol, and taken in wine. But when these evacua- tions proceed, as they often do, from an imperfect cure, accompanied with great and intense heat, during their prevalence, we must immediately resort to the prepara- tory remedies, as blood-letting, cathartics and diapho- retics. Tt sometimes occurs, that the fever will not yield to Jgue and Fever, ' 277 the bark, even when all the usual preparatory medicines have been employed. In such cases we may justly sus- pect the liver to be diseased, particularly if the counte- nance be either livid, or pale, or of a yellowish cast; and in that event, the us*e of the bark should be suspended until those ob-.tructions are removed. For this purpose one of the mercurial pills (see Re- cipe 24,) should be given night and morning, until ptya- lism, iha is, a soreness of the mouth with increased spitting, is produced, which will generally succeed; and whrn ii fails, the nitric acid diluted, and given m its usual doses (see Recipe 16) may be depended on. After a ptyalism i-^ effected, recourse must be had to one or other of the strengthening remedies, to give tone to the system. From the tenor of these observations it follows, that the Peruvian bark is not a remedy to be employed in every case of intermittent fevers, but that much caution is necessary in the exhibition of it, lest the use of so valuable a medicine be turned into abuse. For unless the system is propeily prepared by suitable remedies, the administration of bark, or any other tonic, is an error fraught with the most serious mischief. The Peruvian bark being so costly, and not always to be had pure, it must afford much pleasure to the bene- volent, to learn that the black oak bark of America possesses the same virtues of the Peruvian, as has been verified by repeated experiments, not only in the cure of intermittents, but other diseases hitherto treated with the Peruvian bark alone. It may be exhibited in the same manner, only in rather larger doses. In substance it is most efficacious, and if well pulverized it will be found more palatable than the Peruvian bark, and not so apt to excite vomiting. Another mode in which this remedy may be employ- ed to great advantage, from its abundance in our coun- try, is by bathing twice or thrice a- day in a strong de- coction of it; which to children, and patients whose stomachs will not retain medicine, will prove exceed- ingly beneficial. When the black oak bark is not con- 278 Intermittent^ or venient, the red oak bark, though less efficacious, should be substituted, as I have often witnessed the happiest effects accruing to debilitated persons bathing in a strong decoction of it, about lukewarm, particularly in the last stage of fevers. Hence this remedy well deserves the attention of the planter. Professor Barton assures us that he has employed the bark of the Spanish oak in gangrene, with the happiest effect, and that he considered it in powder, equal to the best Peruvian bark. See Oak. Materia Medica. The common dog- wood bark of our country, is also an excelk nt substitute for this costly medicine, particu- larly in the cure of intermittents; so is the bark of the wild cherry. tree, and of the lyriadendron lulipifera, or American poplar, all of which may be given in the same forms and doses, as the Peruvian bark. See Materia Medica. The columbo root, as an admirable corrector of bile, is a most useful medicine in this complaint, and will often be retained by the stomach, when the bark, in every form, has been rejected. It is likewise an excellent remedy, conjoined wi»h steel, as in the form of the tonic powders or pills, (see Recipe 4 & 23,) for patients dis- posed to be dropsical, or who have a swelling and hard- ness of the spleen, called ague cake; especially, if a purge or two have been previously employed, and some mercurial action excited in the system, by one or two grains of calomel, taken every night and morning for a few weeks. Another valuable medicine in the cure of agues, and which has frequently succeeded when the bark failed, is white vitriol. But like other tonic medicines, it re- quires that the stomach and bowels should be freed of their morbid contents, before any good effects can result from its use. Therefore, some evacuating medicine is always necessary; after which, one of the vitriolic pills (see Recipe 24) may be given every three or four hours during the intermission of fever, gradually repeating the dose, or increasing it, as the system becomes habi- tuated to its action. Ague and Fever. 279 But among the remedies of intcrmittents none is more infallible than the solution of arsenic, (see Recipe 27,) which may be given with perfect safety to persons of every age, beginning with the smaller doses, and pro- portioning them to the age of the patient. Stimulants administered before the fit, by inducing a salutary change in the system, have frequently overcome the disease. It is in this way that emetics are considered useful in the coming on of the fit, so is active exercise, and other stimulants. I have frequently, in obstinate intcrmittents, prevent- ed the recurrence of the fit, by exhibiting a large dose of laudanum or asther about an hour before the expect- ed paroxysm. Dr. Kellie, an ingenious surgeon of the British navy, states, that many instances have occurred of 'the good effects of compression by tourniquets or bandages ap- plied so as to obstruct the circulation in two of the ex- tremities. The plan pursued by him was to apply the instrument on one thigh, and on one arm, of opposite sides, at the same time. In two minutes after the appli- cation of the tourniquets, the shaking and other symp- toms of the cold stage entirely ceased, a mild hot stage was immediately induced, and the patient found him- self quite relieved. After suffering the instruments to remain on for about fifteen minutes, they were removed, and the cold symptoms did not return. He further states, that if the tourniquets be applied previous to the acces- sion of the paroxysm, the cold stage will entirely be prevented; and that, where the cold stage of an ague is either thus shortened, or altogether prevented, the fol- lowing hot stage will be rendered both milder and of shorter duration. As agues are liable to recur, one excellent mean of prevention, as well as cure, is to wear fiannel next to the skin, and to exchange the situation where the dis- ease was contracted, for another, even though not of a healthier air. This alone has often effected a cure. In like manner a change of medicines is as necessary as a change of air, that the body may not become habituated 280 Remittent^ or to any one mode of treatment. I'herefore, it ou,^bt to be remembered, that neither bark, nor any other tonic medicine, should be continued longer than a fortnight at a time, but should be changed for another article v/hose virtues are nearly the same. After a week or two, the former may be resumed, in case the disease should jjrove obstinate; and to bring about the necessary changes in the constiiution, larger doses should be given. Regime N. As to regimen in the cold fit, very little more is necessary than warm camomile tea. In the hot fit, the drink may be barley water, mint or balm tea, lemonade, toa^^t and water, or cold spring water, taken often, but in small quantities at a time. When the sweating begins, the drinks just enumerated may be enlivened w^ith wine, and if the parent be able to take it, he may be allowed a little nourishment. During the intermission, the diet should be as nutritious as the pa- tient's appetite and digestion will allow. Every thing that tends to keep up a gentle perspiration, and to give tone to the vessels, is useful; hence moderate exercise is singularly proper, since nothing more conducch to th« se beneficial effects. The exercise should be of that kind to which the patient has been most accustomed; and taken in the open air, unless wet weather, or a damp situation forbid. But the utmost care should be taken, that exer- cise be not pushed to fatigue, which, by inducing de- bility, carries thousands, particularly foreigners, to un- timely graves. REMITTENT, OR BILIOUS FEVER. | Symptoms. In this fever there is a remission or abatement of its violence, but not a total cessation. Like other fevers, it commences with a sense of coldness and shivering, accompanied by violent pains in the head and back, great dejection of spirits, sickness at the stomach, giddiness, loss of strength, and difficulry of breathing. The cold stage is succeeded by a considerable degree of heat, the pulse, which in the cold fit was small and • Biliotis Fever. 281 quick, becomes full, but abates not of its quickness. — The pain of the head and back increases, and the nau- sea is augmented, frequently terminating in copious vomitings of bile. These symptoms continuing, the , skin, which had hitherto betn hot and dry, becomes moist. Soon after this, the symptoms abate, and some- times cease entirely. The patient flatters himself with the hopes of health speedily returning; but, alas! these pleasing illusions are soon dissipated by another attack, which comes on with increased violence. And if the fe- ver be not opposed by means early employed and suf- ficiently powerful, a constant delirium and restlessness take place; the discharges become very offensive, suc- ceeded by twitchings of the tendons, profuse clammy sweats, and convulsions, which soon terminate in death. Causes. Remittents are produced from the same causes which induce intermittents, but acting here in a more powerful manner. Like these, they are most pre- valent in the months of August, September, and Octo- ber, when heat and moisture combine to hasten the corruption of animal and vegetable substances, and im- pregnate the air with noxious exhalations. Treatment. In the cure of this fever, all our ef- forts should be made to bring the remission to a com- plete intermission; and this is to be effected by bleeding, cathartics, emetics and diluents, with such medicines as have a tendency to solicit the circulation of the fluids to the surface. Hence, on the commencement of the dis- ease, bleeding will generally be found necessary, and should be often repeated, when there exists much pain in the head, with a hard and quick pulse. But to evacu- ate the first passages of their impure contents is always necessary; and this is best done with calomel and jalap, or salts, senna and manna, (see Recipe 38,^ and when circumstances do not prohibit the use of emetics, they may also be employed. The extent to which these means are to be carried, can only be directed by the symptoms present, the habit of body, and other considerations. It 2 N 282 Remittent^ or will in many cases be proper to exhibit an emetic at the very first attack, but this may sometimes be forbidden, by great irritability of the stomach, or the appearance of inflammation. For frequently in diseases of the same origin, and in persons very nearly similar, wirh respect to age, sex, and temperament, one will frequently be accompanied with an inflammatory diathesis, whilst another will be more of the low, irritable species; and consequently the treatment must be varied, in propor- tion to the nature and violence of the disease. For among fevers, we see all the intermediate degrees and varie- ties, from common agues to those of the most violent and infectious kinds. If the patient is of a strong plethoric constitution, with a hard and quick pulse, a deep seated pain in the eyes, a burning heat at the stomach, and flushed countenance, indicative of a strong inflammatory dis- position, bleeding is absolutely necessary, and should be repeated every ten or twelve hours, or oftcner, until the inflammatory symptoms subside. The necessity of diligently evacuating the intestinal canal, must be obvious to every person. And it is not always by one or two brisk cathartics that this com- plaint is to be cured; but the operation must be con- tinued until the whole of the bilious matter is evacuated, which may be known by the faeces changing their color, and putting on a natural appearance. When the irrita- ting matter is thoroughly evacuated, mild laxatives, as the cathartic mixture, (see Recipe 11,) or castor oil, answer very well in the course of the disease to keep the body gently open; but in desperate cases calomel is most to be depended on. And if a ptyalism, or a slight salivation be exciteuTDy the calomel, the patient has no cause of alarm, but rather of joy, as this is a certain in- dication of recovery. How desirable then must it be in high stages of bilious fever, to have this efiect produced as early as possible, by giving calomel, and rubbing in mercurial ointment, and dressing the blisters with the same. * Besides the aforesaid evacuants, glysters of warm Bilious Fever, 283 soap-suds, or molasses and water, to which may be added a little, vinegar, should be employed; as they are not only useful in removing from the larger intestines any offending matter present, but also in producing the good effects of fomentations. Attention having been paid to the state of the bowels, which is always necessary, because of the constant dis- position to accumulate bile, such medicines as tend to determine the fluids to the surface, are next to be re- garded. Of this class are the saline mixture, minder- erus's spirit, febrifui^e, and antimonial powders, (see Recipe 14. 15. 3. and 1.) Either of these maybe exhi- bited in their usual doses, every two or three hours, but in desperate cases the antimonial powders with calomel, or calomel alone, in small doses, are most to be relied on. The warm bath also admirably promotes insensible perspiration, by relaxing the skin, and taking off the stricture of the vessels; it consequently should always, when practicable, be used, and if a bathing vessel can- not be procured, the extremities should be immersed in warm water at least once a day. The temperature of the bath, should be regulated by the feehngs of the patient, and that v^diich affects these most agreeably, should be preferred. The cold affusion, by throwing cold water over the patient, or sponging the body with vinegar and water, has been attended with the best effects in warm climates, particularly if the application be made during the height of the paroxysm, when the head is generally affected. After the inflammatory disposition has ceased, bark will add considerably to the cure; but if incautiously used at the outset, as it frequently is, will render every symptom more violent. However, if the patient sud- denly becomes giddy, feeble and languid, the bark and wine must be had recourse to, and given freely on the remission; otherwise, it will degenerate into a true ner- voiis fever. But you must not mistake the debility which arises from oppression, requiring evacuants, for an exhausted state of the system; as in that case the use of tonics would be but little better than butchery. 284 Remittent^ or Anoflier medicine of great importance m this disease is the columbo root, which readily checks the vomiting, so frequently an attendant, and supports the patient's strength during the use of such medicines as are requi- site to abate the febrile heat, and to carry off' the bile. After unloading the stomach and intestines, by two or three brisk purges, and diminishing the arterial action, by bleeding if requisite, a wine glass full of the infusion of columbo, (see Recipe 39,) or ten or fifteen grains of the powder may be given in a cup of mint tea, every two or three hours, either conjointly or alternately, with some gentle opening medicine, as rhubarb, rnagnesia, cream of tartar, or salts, to remove the redundant bile by keeping the bowels open. Sdlts, though a nauseous medicine, may be rendered much less so by adding a little sugar, acidulated w^ith lemon juice or sharp vinegar, as in the form of the ca- thartic mixture; and this is an excellent aperient, to be exhibited in small doses after the vitiated bile has been removed by calomel. A solution of salts in seltzer water, is a form still more agreeable. During this general treatment, particular symptoms will require attention. The headach for example, which so frequently accompanies this fever, is to be treated by applying to the head cloths wrung out of cold watrr, or vinegar and water often repeated, until the malady is removed; besides which a blister should be applied be- tween the shoulders. As to the vomiting, that depending on the peculiari- ties of habit, is to be variously treated. In some I have found the saline mixture or infusion of columbo, answer very well; in others a spoonful or two of new milk, or equiil parts of milk and lime water, given every hour, have had the happiest effects. A spoonful of sweet oil and molasses has proved equally beneficial, when vomit- ing is accompanied with a burning sensation at the pit of the stomach. To others, porter has afforded imme- diate relief. Never was there a more welcome or won- derful illustration of this, than in the case of Mrs. Car- roll, consort of Daniel Carroll, Esq. of Dud- ington. Bilious Fever. 285 It was my good fortune to attend this very amiable lady under a most violent attack of the bilious fever, with' incessant vomiting. All t'^e usual remedies were employed, without any good effect, which excited con- sideraljle alarm. She being in a state of pregnancy, and recollecting that Nature sometimes snatched a cure be- yond the rules of our art, I a^kt d her if there was any article of drink to which her appetire particularly led her. " Yes, Sir," replied she, I have been craving to drink some good London porter, for two days past, but I would not mention it, being under the impression you would forbid my taking it." Learning that Dr. Thorn- ton had some of that description, I immediately obtained a few bottles, and giving her a glass of it, diluted with a little water, it acted like a charm, — and, in a few weeks I had the very great satisfaction of seeing my fair patient perfectly restored to health. The warm bath, or local applications, such as flannels wrung out of a warm decoction o£ camomile flowers, or mint leaves stewed in spirits, or equal parts of sweet oil and laudanum rubbed on the stomach, have done much good; ahd when these fail, a large blister, or a cataplasm of mustard- seed, ought instantly to be applied ov.er the region of this organ. When the stomach is in a very irri- table state, the patient may frequently moisten his mouth and throat with cold water, but should drink as little as possible of any liquid. Wakefulness, or inability to sleep, will often yield to the warm bath and blisters, and when they fail, a glass or two of porter or the camphorated julep may be given, which also failing, a dose of laudanum is proper at bed time, provided there exists no considerable inflamma-^ tory diathesis. The pain in the bowels is mostly relieved by the warm bath, -or a moderate bleeding and emollient injections, to which occasionally may be added twenty or thirty drops of laudanum; if these produce not the desired eftect, and the fundament is scalded from the evacuations, give glys- ters of milk and lime water, composed of half a pint of each; these failing, inject every hour with cold water,and apply clothes wrung out of it, to the belly. 286 Remittent, or If a delirium comes on in the first stage of the dis- ease, it is to be treated by bleeding, purging, and the means prescribed above for violent headach; but should it occur at a later period, the pulse weak and irregular, with a great propensity to sleep, besides making cold appjications to the head, the body should be frequently sponged with cold vinegar and water, or equal parts of vinegar and spirits. And should not the recollection in a few hours become more improved, and the pulse fuller and more uniform from this mode of treatment, it will be proper to apply a blister to the head, and sinapisms or blisters to the extremities;- besides which, wine or some cordial must be allowed; and if there be a cold sweat, or coldness of the extremities, flannels wrung out of hot spirits, or spirits of camphor, ought to be applied often around the arms, legs and thighs. On the decline of this fever, patients are sometimes troubled with night sweats, to relieve which, gentle ex- ercise in fresh air, and the tonic powder or pills, (.see Recipe 4 and 23,) or bark and elixir vitriol will be proper. Regimen. With respect to regimen, the food and drink should be varied, and adapted to the taste of the patient. Nature perhaps, generally takes care, that no error shall be committed in that way, during the con- tinuance of this disease. The patient is seldom persuaded to swallow any thing but liquids, during the prevalence of the fever, and if by accident he should have an in- clination for something more solid, arrow root, sago, corn, or rice, gruel, mush, panado, custards, roasted ap- ples, oranges, grapes, or other mild ripe fruits, are all that should be allowed. To allay the thirst, barley or rice water, apple water, tamarind water, molasses and water, toast and water, or cold spring water, lemonade, raspberry or currant jelly, dissolved in water, mint or balm tea, acidulated with lemon juice, or other pleasant acids, may be given with great benefit, in frequent, but small quantitit s. These cooling drinks not only quench tliir^, but also tend to excite perspiration. Bilious Fever. 287 Washing the face and hands of the patient from time to time with vinegar and vvater,^ is always refreshing. The room should be somewhat darkened, and kept moderately cool, by a constant succession of fresh air; taking care, however, that the current of wind is not immediately directed on the patient. The covering of the bed ought to be such as is found most comfortable, and the body kept as nearly as possible, at rest. When the fever subsides, and the patient regains a desire for food, it will be best, in addition to the mild articles of diet already mentioned, to begin with puddings of vari- ous kinds, new-laid eggs boiled soft, soups with vegeta- bles, raw oysters, &:c. resuming his usual diet gradually, as he finds his health return. To keep up the tone of the system, a moderate use of genuine wine, or porter diluted, or brandy, or rum and water made weak, will be proper; at the same time pay- ing due attention to air, cleanliness, and exercise. Thus have I detailed, in the clearest manner, accord- ing to my experience, the best curative means of this the most prevalent and dangerous of all our Southern maladies. It is however much easier to prevent, than cure diseases; and in order to the first, I will point out the general means which have been found conducive to this great end, and which constant experience has sanctioned. Prevention. To obviate the attack of summer and autumnal fevers, we should intercept their causes, or guard the habit as much as possible against their influ- ence. Therefore, on visiting a warm climate w^here any epi- demic prevails, the first stept is to prepare the system as much as possible, for the unavoidable change it is about to undergo; and this preparation consists in living tem- perately, and taking every other 7iight^ or oftener^ one or two grains of calomel, or chewing rhubarb, or drink- ing molasses and water, or using sulphur in such doses as to increase the discharge by the bowels, without de- bilitating the system. If there prevails a fulness of habit, 288 Remittent^ or the loss of ten or twelve ounces of blood will also be a useful precaution. In the mean time, an imprudent ex- posure to the heat of the sun, or night air, should be strictly avoided. Hard drinking is another cause of disease, which should be carefully guarded against in warm climates, particularly by seamen, who of all others, are perhaps, the most inattentive to health. The same admonition applies to their sleeping on deck during the night, and cold bathing when overheated, or in a state of intoxica- tion, which by suddenly checking the copious perspira- tion, seldom fails to bring on disease. Cold moist air is a frequent cause of disease in warm climates; hence too much attention cannot be paid to comfortable fires, and suiting the dress to the changes of the weather. Flannel worn next to the skin, is one of the chief pre- servatives of health. Many people indeed, clamour against it as tending to debilitate, because it creates per- spiration. But this is altogether a silly prejudice; as mild perspiration, or a soft skin, so far from being hurtful, is the very habit of healt h. It preserves a proper medium of temperature, by absorbing the excessive moisture from the body during the day, and by preventing the elFects of the cold damp air at night. Cleanliness, both in our persons and apartments, is so essential to health, as to form a leading consideration in all our views to that first of blessings. The neglect of this not only renders a man loathsome and offensive to himself, but gives rise to many of our most inveterate and fatal diseases. Among the various means used for the prevention of diseases, and for the preservation of health in general, none is perhaps more beneficial in warm climates, than good wine prudently used. It increases the circulation of the fluids, promotes both the vsecretions and excre- tions, and invigorates all the functions of the body. How much is it then to be lamented, that so valuable a cordial cannot always be got pure; from the avarice of selfish men, who, at a low price purchase tart or half- Mlioiis Fever, 289 spoiled wines, and, to render them saleable, adulterate them with the most poisonous ingredients; so that they become the most insiduous foes to health. The common red wines are most generally adulter- ated, and artificially coloured, as manifested by a red sediment in the glass, as well as in the bottle. But the most pernicious of all adulterations of wine, is that of sugar of lead, or lead itself, which gives it a sweet taste: and therefore it ought to be remembered, that every wine of a sweetish taste, accompanied with astringent qualities, may justly be suspected to be adulterated with that noxious mineral.* When genuine wine cannot be procured, good old spirits are of considerable service, especially when taken in small quantities, and much diluted. These pleasant preventives, whether under the name of grog or toddy, must, in consequence of their gentle stimu- lant qualities, be peculiarly beneficial to persons whose lot is cast in low situations and moist air. But they should never forget, that no where is the great virtue of self-government more necessary, than in theiruse. For if indulged to excess, they seldom fail, whenever a pre- disposition to any particular disease lurks in the system, I to rouse it to action. \ In like manner, we must have regard to a proper re- i gulation of diet, which consists in preserving the happy , mean between long fasting on the one hand, and immo- ! derate eating on the other. Vegetables are peculiarly i adapted to warm climates, and consequently should i * To detect wine adulterated with lead: take two drachms of cream of tartar, and one drachm of dry liver of sulphur, which must be put in a two-ounce vial, filled with distilled or soft water. The vial must be kept well corked, and occasionally shaken for about ten minutes; when the powder has subsided, decant the clear liquor, and preserve it in a well-stopped bottle for use. Prom sixteen to twenty drops of this liquid are to be dropped in a small glass filled with the wine suspected to have been adulterat- ed; and if the wine turn ^blackish or muddy, and deposit a dark- coloured sediment, we may be certain it is impregnated with sugar of lead, or some other preparation of that metal, equally destruc- tive. 20 290 ^ Bilious Fever. \ constitute the chief part of our diet. Sweet oil, when pure, is perfectly wholesome; but rancid oil, butter, fat, or meat the least tainted, must be wholly rejected. To those of weak habit and bad digestion, much be- nefit w^ill result from a glass of the infusion of columbo, or camomile, or cold water, every morning, on an empty stomach. Such are the general means for preserving health, and preventing diseases in a southern climate. The chief point is to avoid the exciting causes, ancf keep the bowels always moderately lax. See Appendix. NERVOUS FEVER. The fevers already described, and indeed all diseases attended with a considerable degree of morbid heat, affect in some measure the nervous system; but in this particular species, the nervous system is more imme- diately and more violently affected, than in any other. When a fever is once produced, from whatever cause, it seldom fails, by long continuance, to occasion all the symptoms which appear in the nervous or malign^ant fever. This fever has been described by different authors under various names; the typhus or nervous fever, the slow fever, the gaol fever, the hospital fever, the ship fever, the petechial fever, the putrid fever, and the ma- lignant fever. The first appellation it receives from its attacking the brain and from the effects it produces on the nervous system. The second, from the slow and gradual man- ner in which it sometimes attacks. The third, fourth, and fifth, from their being apt to arise in gaols, hospi- tals, and ships, when numbers of men are crowded to- gether, and when sufficient care is not taken to have such places well ventilated and cleansed. The sixth, from certain spots which sometimes appear on the skin of the patients, labouring under this disease; the se- venth, from a putrid state, or tendency supposed to take place in the Jiuids; and the last, from the dangerous Nervous Fever* 291 nature and malignity of the fever: but they are all one and the same disease; variously modified, according to the violence of the symptoms, and the difterent consti- tutions o^the patients. Symptoms. The symptoms are commonly more various in this, than in any other fever. It sometimes creeps on in such a slow insidious manner, that the pa- tient will have suffered the disease to make considera- ble progress, before he thinks it necessary to use any remedies. On other occasions it comes on with a great degree of rapidity, and with many of the symptoms common to all fevers. Thus, it commences with alternate sensations of heat and cold, a want of appetite, nausea, and occasional vo- miting. These are followed by some confusion of the head, a sense of weakness, dejection of spirits, tremor of the hands, and frequent sighing without knowing the cause. At this stage the pulse is irregular, sometimes a little quicker, at other times about the natural standard. A dull and heavy pain with a sense of coldness, pos- sesses the back part of the head in some, and others, a pain in the orbit of one eye. These symptoms gradually increasing, the pulse be- comes smaller and at the same time quicker, while the arteries of the temples and neck beat with additional force. The patient is generally more restless towards night, |he breathing is somewhat difficult, and very little refreshment is obtained, from his short and disturbed slumbers. During these symptoms, the patient often utters vague and unconnected sentences, and not un- frequently deafness supervenes. As the disease advances, the hands tremble so as to prevent his guiding them to his mouth; the fingers are in constant motion; the tongue becomes dry, of a dark colour, and trembles vvlien attempted to be put out; and sometimes the gums and lips are covered with a dark viscid substance. To these succeed stupor, cold clammy sweats, with a foetid smell, hiccup and twitching of the 292 Nervovs Fever* tendons, together with an involuntary discharge of the excrements. Causes. This fever is occasioned by impure air, and putrid animal and vegetable effluvia. We are there- fore not surprised to find it often originate in gaols, ships, and dirty dwellings; where numbers are crowd- ed together, and wliere it is not possible to have suffi- cient ventilation. Though human contagion, and the effluvia arising from putrid animal and vegetable substances, arc the most frequent and active cause of this disease, yet they cannot be considered as the only ones; for we some- times meet with instances in a country neighbourhood, of persons being seized with the disease in all its ma- lignity; where it is not epidemic, nor can it be traced to any place where the human effluvia could be suppos- ed to be confined in any uncommon degree. Hence nastiness, a moist atmosphere, much fatigue, cold depressing passions, low scanty diet; excessive study, too free use of mercury, immoderate venery, profuse haemorrhage, or whatever weakens the nervous system, may be enumerated among the causes. Treatment. With regard to the cure, where the inflammatory symptoms appear to run very high, bleed- ing may be cautiously used. But it will be generally safest, to resort to a pretty active evacuation of the ali- mentary canal. Therefore, on the first appearance of the symptoms, twenty or thirty grains of ipecacuanha, or four or five grains of tartar emetic, may be dissolved in a pint or more of weak camomile tea; of which the patient may drink a gill every fifteen or twenty minutes, until it ex- cites vomitmg; which ought to be assisted by drinking freely of warm water. If this medicine proves only emetic, the intestines should be evacuated the following day by a dose of rhubarb, cream of tartar, or cathartic mixture, (see Recipe 11.) The saline mixture (see Recipe 14,) given in a state Nervous Fever. 293 of effervescence, every two hours, readily abates thirst, and removes the increased irritability of the system. In like manner, a table-spoonful of yeast, given every three or four hours, affords much relief, and has alone, often proved an effectual remedy. Whatever may be the mode of action of yeast in ty- phus, the fact appears to be indisputable, that fixed air takes off that extreme debility of the stomach so con- spicuously marked in disorders of this nature; and in proportion as that subsides, the pulse rises, becomes slower and fuller, the burning heat on the skin disap- pears, and a truce is gained for the reception of nourish- ing supplies- The most agreeable mode of administer- ing yeast, is to add two table-spoonfuls of it to a quart of beer or mild porter, of which a wine-glassful may be taken every hour or two. According to the practice of Drs. Thomas, Currie, and Jackson, as well as other eminent practitioners, the affusion of cold water is one of the most powerful and efficacious means which we can make use of in typhus fever. Its effects will be more salutary, in proportion as it is adopted early, or during the first stage of the dis- ease. Such being an indisputable fact, established upon the firmest basis, we ought always to employ it, very soon after we have evacuated the contents of the ali- mentary canal. In the early stage of the disease, cold water may be poured in* considerable quantity from a height, or dashed forcibly from a pail on the patient. But aspersion or ablution of the body, by means of a sponge, will be more eligible and safe in the advanced periods. The effects produced by both modes are grate- ful and refreshing to the patient, and they usually bring about an abatement of fever, followed by more or less of a diaphoresis, and this again by a refreshing sleep. ti ;j Dr. Currie states, that the cold affusion may be used at any time of the day when there is no sense'of chilli- ness present; when the heat is steadily above what is natural; and when there is no general or profuse per- spiration. During the cold stage of the paroxysm of 294 Nervous Fever. fever, while there is any considerable sense of chilliness present, or where the body is under profuse sensible perspiration, this remedy ought never to be employed, as we might extinguish life by it. In the advanced stage of fever, when the heat is reduced, and the debility, great, some cordial, such as wine warmed with an addi- tion of spice, or even brandy, should be given imme- diately after it. As the danger of this fever, is in proportion to the debility, the great point is to keep up the strength by a liberal use of bark with wine, which should be given on the remission, in such forms as might best agree with the patient: a nourishing diet at the same time should be used, suited to the taste of the patient; taking care to produce an evacuation daily by glysters; and when these are not effectual, a small dose of rhubarb, cream of tartar, or some gentle purge, may occasionally be given. By this general plan, a cure will for the most part be effected; but in the progress of the disease, particular morbid symptoms will require especial treatment. Thus, affections of the head with stupor and delirium, will sometimes be relieved by shaving the head, and fre- quently applying cloths wrung out of cold vinegar and water to it. But if these affections, notwithstanding, should continue, a blister to the head, and sinapisms to the feet, will be required. When a diarrhoea or looseness occurs, three or four drops of laudanum, or double the quantity of the ano- dyne sudorific drops, (see Recipe 17,) should be given in a little mulled wine, and repeated as may be found necessary. In case of watchfulness, the camphorated julep or porter and water will generally succeed. When how- ever, these means fail, ^nd there is great prostration of strength, followed by stupor, and a train of the most distressing symptoms, wine should be exhibited in large quantities; and it will be found that the patient will show a relish for this valuable cordial, after refnsinf^ medicines and every kind of nourishment in a solid JVervous Fever. 295 form. At first it is better relished mulled; but after- wards, the patient will take it freely in its pure state, and in the quantity of one or two quarts a-day, without intoxication. The proper rule to be observed in the use of wine is to give it until the pulse fills, the delirium abates, and a greater degree of warmth returns to the extre- mities. And upon the smallest appearance of the stupor returning, the pulse quickening, and sinking, for they usually go together, the wine must be resumed, and continued in that quantity which is found sufficient to keep up the pulse, and ward off the other bad symptoms. When wine cannot be had, rum or brandy diluted with milk, or water sweetened, will answer, and with some patients is better relished. The friends of the sick should never be disheartened too soon, for here, if any wherCj we may say while there is life, there is hope." And I can truly aver that I have often seen the patient raised, as it were from the dead, by the determined use of generous wine alone, especially old Madeira. As soon as the patient is able to take nourishment, such as panado, arrow-root, &c. the quantity of wine must be gradually diminished. For although it be ab- solutely necessary to take it so liberally, during the^on- tinuance of this fever, yet, as soon as that shall have left the patient, much caution becomes necessary in the use of it: since the third part of what formerly had proved a salutary cordial and restorative, would in this state of convalescence, occasion a dangerous intoxi- cation. When the patient is able to resume the bark, it may be given in such doses as the stomach will bear; and in case of aversion to it, an infusion of camomile flowers, columbo, or pomegranate bark, may be substituted. {See Materia Meclica,) Blisters, as well as sinapisms, are serviceable, by their stimulating effects; but they should not be con- tinued on long at a time: and when a blister is raised in this disease, the sore should be frequently washed with an infusion of bark; and nothing ought* tobe ap- 296 Nervous Fever* plied to the part which may tend to increase the dis- charge; for that, by debilitating the system, would prove injurious. In the course of the disease, if the lips and teeth are covered with a dark crust, attended with ulcers in the mouth and throat, the detergent gargle (see Recipe 42,) should be frequently used. In every malignant case, this fever tends fatally on or before the seventh day: but more frequently those who die, are carried off about the middle or towards the end of the second week. When the patient survives the twentieth day, he usually recovers. When the fever terminates favourably before, or at the end of the second week, the crisis is generally obvious; but when that happens at a later period, particularly if after the third week, the favourable turn is less evident; and some- times several days pass, during which the disease goes off so gradually, that the most experienced are in doubt whether it abates or not. At length, however, it be- comes evident by a warm moisture on the skin, by the dark- coloured gluey substance which adheres to the gums and lips, growing less tenacious, and being more easily removed; by the stools regaining a natural colour; by the urine being made in greater quantity, and depo- siting a sediment; by a return of appetite, and by the pulse becoming slower than it was before the Gom- mencem'ent of the disease. Regimen. In addition to the mild articles of diet enumerated in the bilious fever, bread and milk, with a little water, sugar, and the pulp of a roasted apple, form a most grateful and nutritious food; and for the sake of variety, cider, perry, porter, or any other drink which the patient covets, should always be allowed. It has been observed, that this fever often originates from corrupted air, and of course must be aggravated by it; great care should therefore be taken, to prevent the air from stagnating in the patient's chamber. When that is small, and cannot be well ventilated, the patient should be carried into the open air, and allowed to sit there two or three hours every day in mild weather. - jVervous Fever. 297 > When this cannot be conveniently done, every means in our poweirlo ventilate the room should be employed. Strong-scented herbs ought every day to be strewed about the room, and vinegar frequently sprinkled about the bed clothes, and some evaporated, by pouring it on a hot iron. The bed clothes ought to be in no greater quantji than is agreeable to his feelings, and when he can sflBip, with hi^lodit refre^ing change of^5?Btur^nd situation. The patient shoi^AJiave his linen apH'^^Siyiijg^ hanged often, and the s!5oJ^ removed ct^arly. asj^sible; for nothing re- es the»*sick more th<||^ cdm air and cleanliness, th^ early stage of this disease, when there is eternatural heat, washing the face and hands often'^in cold vinegar and water, ^lid wiping the body with wet cloths, will be highly refreshing; and in the more ad\^ced stage of the disease^Vhen there is less febrile iMjat, bathing daily in a strong decoction of black or red oSk bark, about milk warm, cannot f^l to pro- duce the happiest effects. {See Oak. Materia Medica,) In all cases where the fever is unusually protracted, and leaves the patient in excessive weakness, the recovery is slow and precarious; and the greatest care is required to prevent any error in diet, during the convalescence, as a very small degree of excess at this time, will pro- duce very troublesome consequences. Food of easy digestion, taken in small quantities and often repeated; gentle exercise when the weather is favourable; atten- tion to prevent costiveness, by some mild laxative; and the use of bitters to assist digestion, or the rust of steel, when there is any prevailing acid on the stomach, arc the most certain means of reinstating health. Having in the preceding chapter enumerated the dif- ferent means for the prevention of diseases, I shall now point out such as are most suitable to arrest the pro- gress of contagion when commenced. When a contagious fever makes its appearance, the first precaution is to separate the sick from the healthy, and thus to cut off, as much as possible, the intercourse betwe^ them. The next step should be, to purify both 2 P 298 Nervous Fever. beds and clothes from every particle of filth. The chambers must be often fumigated, by burning good sharp vinegar or tar, and the floor washed daily with ley or the solution of pot-ashes, or strong soap-suds. A cloth wetted in lime water and hung up in the room, and replaced as often as it becomes dry, is also a great mean of purifying infected air. When a contagious disease originates on shipboard, quicklime should always be addtd to the water wjiich is used for commoi^ driak', \% the proportion ^one pound of quick lime, t^hogshea^d of water; biiffll the water is impure, a larger quality of lime will be tje- cessary; and some of it should be put also ^intc^the ship's well, to prevent the putrid and foul airij^isilJg thence. When these means are ineffectual to stop the pro- gress of any contagious disorder, fumigatio|| with the nitrous vapour, will undoubtedly succeed:^nd the method of preparing it, is to put half an ?unce of vitriolic acid into a cup; warm it over a shovel of coals, adding to it, by little and little, about the same quantity of powdered saltpetre, and gtirring it occasionally with a slip of glass, as long as the vapour arises. The vessel is then to be carried about the room, the doors and windows being close shut, and put in every corner and place where it can be suspected there is any foul air; the fumigation to be continued for one or two hours every day, or oftener, until the contagion is destroyed. If the vapour should irritate the lungs, so as to ex- cite much coughing, fresh air should be admitted, by opening the door or windows of the room. However, after a little familiarity with it, this vapour will not offend the lungs, but on the contrary will prove highly grateful and refreshing. The vapour of muriatic acid has also been success- fully employed in purifying infected air, and destroying contagion. It is made use of in the following manner. I^ut one pound of common salt into an earthen vessel, and pour over it, from lime to time, a small quantity Nervous Fever. 299 of sulphuric acid, till the whole salt is moistened. If the air is foul, and peculiarly offensive, apply a gentle heat under the vessel, to extricate a larger quantity of va- pour; but, in general, the simple addition of the* acid to the salt vi^ill be found sufficient, unless the apartment is very large. An eminent physician belonging to the marine bar- racks of Brest, states, that previous to visiting the hos« pital, he was in the habit of introducing into his nos- trils sponge cut in a proper size and shape, and mois- tened with some essential oil. He also kept in his mouth a piece of orange-peel; and from this simple method he escaped several putrid and pestilential dis- eases, which in one year killed eleven physicians and one hundred and thirteen students. Where any one is apprehensive of having caught in- fection, which may be suspected by a bad taste of the moutb, and want of appetite; an emetic should be given towards the evening, and on the patient's going to bed he may be allowed a little mulled cider, or wine whey, with a small dose of the anodyne sudorific drops. (See Recipe 17.) The warm bath, if such a luxury can be commanded, would here be found exceedingly refreshing and bene- ficial, PHRENSY, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. Symptoms. A deep-seated headach, redness of the eyes and face, violent throbbing or pulsation in the ar- teries of the neck and temples, incapability of bearing light or noise, a constant watching or delirium with picking the bed clothes. The pulse, although some- times languid, is generally hard, tense and strong. The mind chiefly runs upon such subjects as have before made a deep impression upon it, and sometimes from a sullen silence the patient becomes all of a sudden de- lirious and quite outrageous. 300 Phrensy* Causes. Exposure of the head to the scorching rays of the sun; too deep and long.continued thinking; excessive drinking; suppression of usual evacuations^j^ concussion of the brain, and whatever may increase the afflux of blood to the head. > Treatment. Blood-letting is the " anchor of hope''* in this disease, which should be employed copiously on its first attack, and repeated as the symptoms and strength of the patient will permit. Immediately after bleeding, a large dose of salts, or some cooling purge must be given. Ice pounded and put into a bladder, or folds of cloth wet with vinegar or cold water, should constantly be applied to the head, and if the symptoms prove obstinate, it ought instantly to be shaved, and the whole of the scalp covered with a blister. When the pulse has been reduced by blood-letting from the arm, if the pain in the head continue severe, let cups or leeches be forthwith applied to the temples, forehead, and back of the head. Bathing the feet and legs in warm water, or wrapping them up in flannel wrung out of hot water, is also of great service, by producing a revulsion of blood from the head. With the same view sinapisms should be employed. One of the antimonial camphorated powders, (see Recipe 1 and 2) given every two hours, or large por- tions of nitre dissolved into the patient's drink, will be useful. If the disease be occasioned by a sudden stoppage of evacuations, every means to restore them must be tried. In all inflammatory aflfections of the head, a copious discharge from the intestines will be found highly be- neficial, by diverting the humours from the head; and * when we cannot employ purgatives, laxative clysters should be used. To assist also in diminishing the determination of the blood to the head, the patient should be kept as near the erect posture as can easily be borne. Cold. 301 Regimen, The diet should be of the lightest kind, as ripe fruits, with diluent drinks, such as cold water^ tamarinds and water, &c. freely used. The patient to be kept in a dark room, as cool and quiet as possible; avoiding all irritating causes, and breathing a current of fresh air.* COLD, Is a disease of the inflammatory kind, which occurs more frequently on sudden changes of the weather, and attacks persons of all constitutions, but especially those of consumptive habits. It is also at times epidemic, when it is known by the name of influenza, and has been erroneously consider- ed as depending upon a specific contagion for its cause, I'he influenza generally pays us a visit every six or seven years. The season of its visitation is the middle or latter end of autumn, after a long spell of dry weather, as was verified last year. It would appear to be no re specter of persons, knocking equally at the door of the rich and the poor, and attacking the young no less than the aged. Symptoms. Its first symptoms are a stoppage of the nose, dull pain, with a sense of weight in the forehead; stiffness in the motion of the eyes, and soon after cough, hoarseness, an increased secretion of mucus from the * It was of this disease, generally 'termed a stroke of the sun, that the brave general Greene, an officer second only to Wash- ington, died at Mulberry Grove, his country seat near Savannah. As a true Refmblican he delighted in exercise, particularly that of gardening: of which he was so fond as sometimes to continue it under the meridian blaze. It was in this garden that the last sum- mons found him. His honourable friend, E. Telfair, Esq. had often cautioned him against imprudent exposure to the Georgia suns: but believing that he possessed the same nerves, as in the hot field of Monmouth, he still pursued his favourite exercise. But while busily adorning the soil which his own valour had so gloriously defended, a sun-beam pierced his brain, and in a short time translated to heaven, as noble a spirit as eVer fought under the standard of Liberty, 302 Cold. nose, and tears from the eyes, attended with mor^ or le^s fever, and sometimes sore throat. Cause. This disease is generally the effect of cold, which by obstructing the perspiration, throws the re- dundant humours upon the nose, fauces and lungs; or to those great physical changes which give rise to epidemics. Treatment. The treatment of this disease, as of all others of an inflammatory nature, consists of the an- tiphlogistic, or cooling remedies. Where it is slight, little else will be necessary than to live abstemiously; avoid cold, and whatever may increase the feverish habit. Bathe the feet and legs before going to bed, in lukewarm water, and drink freely of diluting li- quors, as flaxseed, balm or ground ivy teas, weak wine whey, barley water, &c. thereby exciting perspi^ ration; and taking care afterwards to avoid a sudden exposure to cold or damp air. Attention must at the same time be paid to keeping the bowels open, by the occasional use of castor oil, or some cooling cathartic. When the disease is more violent, blood-letting in a larger or smaller quantity should be employed; and repeated as the symptoms may require, in conjunction with the preceding remedies. And in case of pain, apply a blister as near as possible to the affected part. If the cough, which is often troublesome, be not removed by diluent dr!nks, or flaxseed sy)|up, (see Flaxseed. Materia Meclica,)^ or by cheWing liquorice- ball, or by taking now and then a tea-spoonful of sweet. oil and honey; opiates, after the inflammatory symptoms have abated, may be given at bed lime with success. Sixty or eighty drops of paregoric, for ex- ample — or thirty or forty of laudanum, or the anodyne sudorific draught or bolus in warm tea. (See Recipe 18 and 20.) The steam of hot water, or vinegar and water, inhaled, also greatly alleviates this symptom, as well as the hoarseness, so commonly prevalent. When the cough is very frequent, the fever considerable, and Cold. 303 tlie breathing intercepted by transient pains, or tightness of the chest, the cooling course above recommended, such as bleeding, purging, blistering, with diluting drinks, must be early emjiloyed; otherwise inflamma- tion of the lungs will succeed, which, if not speedily removed, may terminate in consumption. The frequency of this disease, from the sudden changes of weather to which our climate is subject, and the slight degree of alarm generally excited by what is called ** only catching a cold^'*'^ too often occa- sions that neglect, which gives rise to the most distress- ing maladies, such as quinsy, pleurisy, inflammation of the lungs, rheumatism, &.c. Fully satisfied that numbers fall victims to the sup- posed insignificance of this insidious enemy, I have thought it my duty thus to warn the inattentive. Prevention. To guard against this disease, the utmost attention should be paid to a due regulation of the clothing; which ought to be neither too thin, nor so irregularly disposed, as to leave one part of the body naked^ whilst the rest is burthened, and too warmly clad; an error frequently committed among children and young persons. Warm rooms and impure air may weaken the body, but warm clothing can never be injurious in cold weather. The use of flannel cannot be too highly recommended as a preventive of this dis- ease; and if an objection should be made to weafing it next to the skin, on account of the irritation it occa- sions, it may be worn over the linen. Putting on wet clothes, or lying in damp sheets, or sitting in wetted ro^is, are so well known to be inju- rious, that it is hardly necessary to admonish people against such obvious improprieties. The common pru- dence of shunning, when heated, a torrent of cold air from the crevice of a door or window; or throwing ofl* the clothing immediately after taking exercise, are so obvious, as not to be required to be enlarged on. Equal danger arises Jfrom too suddenly passing out of an at- 304 Quinsy, or mosphere of a very cold temperature, to one of a much warmer. Thus, when any part of the body has been exposed to cold, it is liable to be much more affected by heat, than before the exposure. Of this, the method of treat- ing frozen limbs in cold countries, affords a beautiful and decisive proof. Were a frozen limb to be brought before the fire, or immersed in water, a violent in- flammation would come on, and speedily terminate in mortification. They therefore rub the parts benumbed with snow, and then very gradually expose them to a warm temperament. Hence it will evidently appear, that strong drinks, both before and after exposure to severe cold, must be highly dangerous; and it should always be remembered, that when the body has been either chilled or much heated, it must be brought back to its natural state by degrees; and again, after being exposed to wet weather in summer, the clothes should be changed as soon as possible, and the body kept quiet and cool for some time. By attention to these precautions, those inflammatory diseases, for which cold only prepares the system, may be easily avoided. QUINSY, OR INFLAMMATORY SORE THROAT. Symptoms. Is distinguished by a sense of heat, pain and tightness in the fauces and throat, accompanied by a difliculty of svv'allowing, particularly fluids. In gene- ral, the inflammation begins in one tonsil, a gland oil each side of the palate; then spreads across the palate, and seizes the other tonsil. When the inflammatipn possesses both sides, the pain becomes very severe, and swallowing is performed with extreme difficulty; but if it attacks the upper part of the windpipe, it creates great danger of suffocation. Inflammatory Sore Throat. 305 Causes. Cold — wet feet — throwing off the neck- cloth — or drinking cold water when overheated. Treatment. The same rules are to be observed^ as in all cases of disease highly inflammatory, such as bleeding, purging, and other cooling means. The ex- tent to which these are to be used, can only be ascer- tained by the violence of the disease, and the constitu- tion of the patient; but from the danger of this com- plaint, they should be early and freely employed, par- ticularly if there exists any fever. Local applications have also their good effects, and in slight cases, are often sufficient to remove the inflamma- tion. Receiving the steams of warm water, or vinegar and water, through a funnel or spout of a tea-pot, will give great relief. Much benefit may be derived from the use of gargles, commencing with the common^ and after the inflammation is considerably abated, using the as- tringent gargle. (See Recipe 40 and 41.) At this stage of the disease, gargles of port wine, or brandy and water, answer every purpose, to restore the tone of the fibres, relaxed from over distention. External applications are, likewise, of great use. In slight cases it will be sufficient to have the neck rubbed twice or thrice a-day with the volatile or camphorated liniment, (see Recipe 64 and 65,) and apply a piece of flannel. The embrocation will be rendered still more stimulating by adding a small portion of the tincture of cantharides. But in those cases where the inflammation is considerable, the early application of leeches, or a blister or cataplasm of mustard around the neck, is most to be relied on; which by exciting external in- flammation, will lessen the internal. Onions {see Materia Medica,) are also excellent when applied externally in this disease. In addition to those remedies, the antimonial mixure (see Recipe 6) or decoction of rattlesnake root, (see Materia Med?ea,) given in such doses as will excite perspiration, is much to be depended on, when the in- flammatory svmptoms run high; and before the febrile 2Q 306 Qiihisy. symptoms are any way violent, the timely exhibition of an emetic often proves extremely useful, and some- times checks its complete formation. Should these means prove ineffectual, and there ap- pears a tendency to suppuration, it ought to be pro- moted by frequently taking into the fauces the steams of warm water, or applying warm poultices to the eck. As soon as a whitish tumour with fluctuation of matter is discovered, it should be opened by the lancet, and then the detergent gargle (see Recipe 42) should be used. If in consequence of the largeness of the tumour the patient cannot swallow, he must be sup- ported by nourishing clysters of broth, gruel or milk. If persons as soon as they discover any uneasiness in the throat, were to use nitre as already recommended — bathe their feeth in warm water — apply flannels mois- tened with one of the above liniments, and keep com- fortably warm, this disease would seldom proceed to a great height. Regimen. With respect to the regimen., it must be of the cooling kind, except the application of cold. Barley or rice water, flaxseed tea, and such like, ren- dered agreeable to the palate by the addition of jelly or honey, should be often tak^n, although difficult to swal- low: for the pain conseqi^ent on swallowing, is more owing to the action of the Inflamed parts, by which de- glutition is performed, than by the passage of the liquid which is swallowed. Prevention. For the prevention of this disease, the directions should be adverted to, which have been given under the head of cold. Where it becomes habi- tual, an issue behind the neck, does often succeed in preventing its recurrence.* * Well knowing how deep an interest the world always takes in great mcn^ I trust it will not prove unacceptable to my country- men, to learn, that the above malady, the Quinsy^ was the mes- senger, whereby God was pleased to introduce into his own pre- Putrid Sore Throat. 307 PUTRID SORE THROAT. This is a contagious disease, and appears more ge- nerally in autumn, after a hot summer. It oftener attacks children, and persons of relaxed habits, than those of vigorous health. Symptoms. It generally comes on with a sense of giddiness; such as precedes fainting, and a chilliness or shivering like that of an ague fit. This is soon fol- lowed by a great heat, and these interchangeably suc- ceed each other during some hours, till at length the heat becomes constant and intense. The patient then sence, the soul of that purest of human beings, George Wash- ington. On the afternoon of the 13th December, 1799, riding out to one of his farms, he was caught in a driving rain, which soon turning into a snow storm, deposited a considerable quantity of snow be- twixt his cravat and neck. Long accustomed to brave the incle- mencies of weather, he paid no regard to this circumstance; but having brushed off the snow on his return, he supped and went to bed as usual. Some time before day, he was awakened with the sore throat, and difficult breathing, which constitute quinsy. A faithful domestic, who always carried a lancet, was called up and bled him, but without affording any relief. About day break my near relative and honoured fireceiitor^ Doctor James Craik, of Alexandria, the inseparable friend and fihysician of Washington, was sent for, who reached Mount Vernon about ten o'clock. Alarmed at the general's symptoms, he communicated his fears to Mrs. Washington, who immediately dispatched servants for Doctors Dick and Brown. Nothing was omitted that human in- genuity and skill could do for a life so dear, but all in vain. It ap- peared in the result, as the illustrious «w^ possible. The 348 Suppression and Difficulty of Urine. occasional use of rhubarb in small doses,' to keep the bowels easy, tends to alleviate the aff'ection. SUPPRESSION AND DIFFICULTY OF URINE. Arises from a variety of causes, as calculous concre- tions — obstructions in the uretha — blisters — or the tincture of cantharides, taken internally too freely — wounds, bruises, &c. Treatment. If the pulse be full and feverish, bleed and procure stools by emollient glysters and cooling laxatives, such as castor oil, or the cathartic mixture. (See Recipe 11.) Much dependence is to be placed in the free use of dehiulcent drinks, as barley water, flax- seed tea, mucilage of gum arabic, decoction of marsh- mallows, of parsley roots, or of water-melon seeds, es- pecially if the affection be owing to the cantharides, or any injury of the bladder. One of the camphorated powders (see Recipe 2) given every three or four hours, in the patient's common drink, will also prove an auxili- ary. Great relief will be obtained from the warm bath, used oftener or seldomer as the case may require, or from the frequent applications to the belly of cloths wrung out of hot water, or bladders half filled with it. Opiates are serviceable, but should never be used in the heio^ht of fever. When this complaint is in consequence of calculous concretions or gravel obstructing the urinary passages, which may be known by pain in the loins, sickness at the stomach, and sometimes a discharge of bloody urine, an infusion of wild-carrot seed sweetened with honey is very beneficial. A more powerful medicine, liowever, for sjravel complaints, is the caustic alkali or soap-lees, (see Recipe 33,) but being of an acrid nature, it ought always to be given in mucilaginous drinks, and com- menced with small doses; which should be gradually increased as far as the stomach can bear, and continued Piles. 349 for a long tihie, particularly if there should be an abate- ment of the symptoms. When the application of blisters causes a difficulty of urine, wash the blistered part frequendy with warm milk and water, or apply sweet oil. In children, a sup- pression of urine is often relieved by a poultice of raw onions or radishes applied to the bottom of the belly. ^ Regimen. During the violence of this complaint the lightest diet only should be used, and mucilaginous drinks taken freely. Those who are often afflicted with it, ought carefully to avoid aliment hard of digestion, flatulent, or of a healing nature. PILES. Symptoms. Painful tumours about the fundament, or a flow of blood from it. Causes. Costiveness — strong aloetic purges — much riding — or sedentary habits. Treatment. If the patient be of a full habit, bleed and live abstemiously, keep the body gently open with molasses and water, or equal parts of sulphur and cream of tartar, in doses of a tea- spoonful two or or three times a- day. When the tumours are painful, set over a steam of hot water and anoint the part with sweet oil, or wash frequently with lead water, to a half pint of which may be added one or two table-spoonfuls of laudanum. If the tumours will not yield to one or other of these applica,tions, anoint them night and morn- ing with mercurial ointment, to which may be added opium. The application of leeches to the tumours, is highly useful. If the disease arises from debility, give ten grains of steel thrice a-day. When the piles are of the bleeding sort, apply cloths dipped in cold vinegar and water, or a strong solution of white vitriol or slum, frequently to the fundi^raent, or anoint the part with the hasmorrhoidal ointment, (see i 350 Dysentery^ or Bloody Flux, Recipe 66,) and endeavour to restore the tone of the vessels by the use of bark, columbo, or steel. DYSENTERY, OR BLOODY FLUX. Symptoms. A discharge of mucus by stool often bloody — violent gripings— ^pain in the loins — a t onstant inclination to go to stool, widiout being able to void any thing; and sometimes fever. Causes. Putrid air and aliment — green fruit — strong cathartics — obstructed perspiration, and whatever in- creases the natural irritability of the intestines. Treatment. To conduct the patient safely through this disease, the bowels should be evacuated by calo- mel, castor oil or the cathartic mixture; (see Recipe 1 1,) and if the patient be of an inflammatory disposition, or there be febrile symptoms, blood-letting will also be required. After the acrid contents of the stomach and intestines have been evacuated, the anodyne sudorific bolus or draught (see Recipe 20 and 18) may be given at lied time: and on the following day, if there be no evacuation of a natural appearance, one or other of the above aperient medicines must be exhibited in small doses, until the desired effect is obtained. To produce a natural evacuation duily, is a circum- stance of the greatest importance in this disease, and should at all times be kept in view. To neglect this, as my good old friend, Doctor Henry Stevenson of Bal- timore, used often to say, would be like " Locking the thief in the house to do all the mischief he could.'' ^ It is sometimes proper, mstead of bleeding to give an emetic in the beginning of the disease, to persons of w^eak habits; but where there is a great degree of irri- tability of the stomach, or obstructions of the liver, vomiring will do more harm than good. When the dibcase is epidemic, after having premised the necessary evacuations, calomel is most to be de- pended on, in doses of four or five grains, combined Dysentery^ or Bloody Flux. 351 with the anodyne sudorific bolus, or with one or two grains of opium alone, exhibited every nijjjht. And when the calomel does not produce a natural evacua- tion, it is always proper to give a small dose of castor oil, or one or two wine-glasses of the cathartic mix- ture (see Recipe 11) every morning, until the disease begins to yield. If acidity prevails in the stomach and intestines, as marked by oppression, heat, sour belching and vomit- ing, and excoriations about the fundament, besides a liberal use of mucilagmous and sheathing drinks, a wine-glassful of the absorbent mixture, (see Recipe 8,) or a spoonful or two of new milk and lime water, should be given every two or three hours. Frequent injections of flaxseed tea or barley water with a table- spoonful of laudanum are of infinite service when the pain in the bowels and tenesmus are distressing. In obstinate cases, or when there is the least ap- prehension of an inflammation of the bowels, the warm bath or local fomentation to the belly, and afiewards a blister, are indispensable. Cupping here is also useful. At the close of the disease, or when it indicates symp- toms of a putrid nature, the infusion of bark or co- lumbo is particularly useful, with wine; an^ rhubarb may be administered as a purge. Doctor Mosely of Jamaica, states, that in chronic dysentery, unattended with fever, there is not a more efficacious medicine than the vitriolic solution, (see Recipe 7) in doses of a table-spoonful every morning, with an opiate at bed time. In preparing this solution, the proportion of either the vitriol or alum may be increased or diminished according to circumstances; that is, when evacuations are required, the quantity of alum may be dimanished, or entirely omitted, and when great astringency is re- quired, the quantity of alum is to be increased and the vitriol diminished. Another simple, though efficacious remedy in this . disease, is a solution of common salt in vinegar or le- mon juice, termed antidysenteric mixture, (See Recipe 552 Apoplectic- Fits. 10.) This medicine has also been strongly recom- mended in bilious fever or putrid sore throat, when the bowels are in an irritable state. Dewberry is like*vise a valuable medicine in this distressing disease. (See Materia Medica.) b Regimen. In the violence of this disease, the diet should consist only of arrow root, sago, panado, or gruel, and the drinks of a cooling and sheathing nature, as barley or rice w^ater, flaxseed tea, or mucilage of gum arable. But when the disease has existed some time, the diet should be more nourishing, particularly if the patient has been weakened by preceding disease, or is either of a tender or an advanced age. Oranges, and whatever ripe fruit the season affords, may be al- lowed. The room should be constantly fumigated with vine- gar, and well ventik^ted. The clothing as well as the bedding ought to be often renewed, and all offensive odoqrs^ particularly the feces, should be removed as speedily as possible. Prevention. The same means of prevention are here to be used, as under the head of bilious fever; and as this disease becomes infectious, like autumnal fevers do, by neglect of cleanliness, its further progress through the medium of bad air, maybe checked by attending to the mode of purifying that element, prescribed under the head of nervous fever. APOPLECTICFITS. Symptoms. Sudden falling to the ground, with a deprivation of sense and motion, attended by deep sleep and noisy breathing; the circulation remaining unim- paired. Causes. Plethora — hard drinking — too large doses of opium-— blows — tight neck-cloths, or whatever in- terrupts the return of the blood from the head. Apoplectic- Fits, 353 Treatment. In the cure of a disease threatening such sudden fatality, remedies must be speedily em- ployed. The patient's head should instantly be raised and supported; and he be placed in a situation where he can respire a cool air. He is to be bled most copiously to the amount of a quart or more, and this must be re- peated after a short time if he is not relieved, especially if the disease occur in a person of robust and plethoric habit. Cup also on the temples. Brisk purges are next to be administered, and when these cannot be swallow- ed, the most stimulating injections should be thrown up. Where the disease depends rather on a depletion of the blood vessels than on too great fulness, which may be known by its attacking old people of debilitated habits; bleeding is sparingly to be resorted to, particu» larly if the countenance appears to be sunk and palid. In these cases the patient ought to be laid on a bed, with his head elevated, and turned every hour; glysters are then to be given, and as soon as liquids can be swal- lowed, the contents of the stomach and bowels should be evacuated by a brisk purge. Sinapisms and blisters to the extremities should not be neglected. But searing the soles of the feet with a hot iron, will more certainly and suddenly rouse the torpid system. * Regimen. The diet should be of the lowest kind, consisting principally for several days after the attack, of diluent drinks; such as rice or barley water, tamarind water, flaxseed tea, &c. * Prevention. In full habits, let the diet be light and sparing, and the bowels kept open. In debilitated habits, the diet should be more nourishing, and the strengthening medicines, as bark, steel, &c. employed to give tone to the vessels. 354 EPILEPTIC-FITS. Symptoms. The patient falls suddenly with a de- privation of sense; while the muscles of the face and every part of the body are violently convulsed. Causes. Excessive drinking — sudden stoppage of the courses — severe fright — injuries of the head — teeth- ing in children — and irritation from worms in the sto- mach and intestines. Treatment. To prevent the patient from injuring himself by the violence of his struggles, he ought im- mediately to be placed on a bed. The clothing should be every where loosened, and the head moderately ele- vated. A slip of wood should be placed between the jaws to prevent their closing on the tongue, and nothing is to be administered in a glass vessel. Should it appear" that the patient has been drinking too freely of spiritu- ous liquors, or has loaded his stomach with indigestible matter, a strong emetic should be immediately given, which, by cleansing the stomach, will often terminate the paroxysm. If suppressed evacuations are the cause, they must be re-excited by such means as are calculated to restore the course of nature. If the patient complain of pain in the head, a seton in the nape of the neck should not be omitted. If worms be the fault, which may be known by an offensive breath and irregular appetite, they must be removed before a radical cure can be effected. Sometimes an epileptic fit is preceded by an uneasy sensation in some of the limbs or trunk of the body, creeping upwards to the head. In this case, the fit will be prevented by applying a ligature above the part so affected. Many cases have occurred, in which this disease has been cured with the sugar of lead, particularly under the age of maturity. It should be commenced in small doses, beginning with one fourth of a grain, for a half Fainting- Fits. 355 grown person, and gradually increased to two grains or more, thrice a-day, made into pills with the crumbs of bread. If from using this medicine the bowels are dis- ordered, it should be laid aside until relief is obtained by the use of the warm bath, mild laxatives, and opium in more than usual doses. A small portion of opium combined with the lead, will generally obviate or correct its unpleasant operation. The good effects of nitrate of silver, commonly called lunar caustic, liave also been attested by eminent phy- sicians, in doses from one fourth, very gradually in- creased to a grain, twice a-day, made into pills with bread. The flowers of zinc have likewise been highly spoken of, and are said to have performed permanent cures, in doses of six or eight grains morning and night. The herb cardamine or ladies smock, has been pre- scribed with advantage, and may be taken to the extent of a drachm three or four times a-day. As there is incontrovertible evidence, that these me- dicines have succeeded in certain cases, they are all de- serving of a fair trial, particularly in the treatment of a disease in which no plausible remedy should be left un- tried. FAINTING-FITS. Symptoms. The pulse and respiration suddenly be- comes exceedingly feeble, insomuch at times, as to create a fear of the total extinction of life. Causes. Fright — long fasting — large evacuations — debility, &c. ♦ Treatment. The patient should be placed in a re- clining posture, and every part of the clothing which by its tightness is likely to interrupt the free circulation of blood, must be immediately loosened. The doors and windows of the room, especially if the weather be warm, should be kept open, and no more persons ad- 356 Hysteric- Fits, mitted than are necessary to give assistance; and these should not prevent the free access of the air to the patient. Sprinkle flie face with cold water or vinegar, and apply volatiles, burnt linen or feathers to the nostrils; and that the stimulus may with more certainty be in- haled, the patient should be kept from breathing through the mouth, by holding a handkerchief forcibly against it, taking care, however, to leave the nostrils perfectly free. HYSTERIC-FITS. This disease more frequently occurs in the unmar- ried or barren woman, and those who lead a sedentary life. It very seldom appears before the age of puberty, or af^tr the age of thirty-five years. The lime at which it mo>t readily occurs, is that of the menstrual period. It generally commences with universal languor and coldness of the extremities. The colour of the face is variable, being sometimes flushed and sometimes pale. The pulse becomes unequal and obscure. The stomach is sometimes affected with vomitings, the lungs with difliculty of breathing, and the heart with palpitations. A painful sensation is often felt, like that of a globe or a ball in the left side of the belly, advancing upwards, and producing the same uneasiness in the stomach, from wliich it rises in the throat, occasioning by its pressure, a sense of suffocation; when a degree of fainting comes on, and certain convulsive motions take place, agita- ting the trunk of the body and limbs in various ways; after which, alternate fits of laughter and crying occur, and a remission then ensues. In some patients, a vio- lent beating pain takes place in some part of the head, as if a nail was driving into it. Sharp pains, likewise, attack the loins, back and bladder, and the patient makes an unusual quantity of urine as limpid as water; which is one of the most characteristic signs of the dis- ease. ' The appearances which take place in this affection, Hysteric -Fits, 357 are considerably varied in different persons, and even in the same persons at different tiuics. It differs by having more or fewer of those circumstances above mentioned; by these circumstances being more or kss violent; and by the different duration of the whole fit. If the patient be young and of a plethoric habit, blood-letting will be required during the fir; but in de- licate constitutions this operation is not advisable. Vo- latiles, singed feathers, and the like, should be applied to the nostrils; and if the patient can swallow, a tta- spoonful of aether, or tincture of assafoetida, or thirty or forty drops of laudanum may *be given in a glass of cold water, and repeated in a couple of hours or sooner if necessary. Clysters of gruel, to which have been added a tea- spoonful or two of laudanum, will also have a good effect. The feet and legs should as soon as pos- sible be put into warm water, and well rubbed with the hand. Cold water sprinkled on the face, and the ad- mission of cool air in the room, are likewise proper auxiliaries. During the intermission of the fit, the nervous sys- tem should be strengthened to prevent a recurrence, by the tonic powders, pills, or drops (see Recipe 4, 23 and 19) in their usual doses, after having administered some purgative medicine. Upon the approach of any languor, the patient should instantly take a glass of wine, or a tea-spoonful of lavender, or ten or twelve drops of laudanum in a glass of cold water. Regimen. An attention to diet is highly proper for the removal of this disease. A milk and vegetable diet duly persisted in, will have the most salutary effect, especially in sanguine constitutions. The best drink after dinner is water with the addition of a little good wine, or a smaller quantity of old spirits. Tea should be prohibited altogether, or used sparing- ly. Moderate exercise, particularly riding on horseback, is of the greatest service, as are likewise amusements and cheerful company* 358 PALSY. Is a disease consisting in a loss of the power of vo- luntary motion, but affecting certain parts of the body only, and by this it is distinguished from apoplexy. In the most violent degrees of palsy, the patient loses both the power of motion, and sense of feeling, either of one side, or the lower half of the body. The first is termed hemiplegia^ the latter paraplegia. When it affects any particular parts only, as the tongue, the lip, eyelid, &c. it is termed a local palsy. Symptoms. If this disease be not the effect of apo- plexy, it is often preceded by universal torpor, giddi- ness, a sense of weight or uneasiness in the head, dul- ness of compression, loss of memory, and a sense of coldness in the part about to be afiected; there is also, sometimes, tremor, creeping, and pain in the part. Causes. Compression of the brain from any of the causes inducing apoplexy — certain poisons received into the body, as lead, arsenic, Sec. — injuries done the spinal marrow. It is also produced in consequence of extreme debility, and old age. Treatment. If palsy arises from the causes pro- ducing apoplexy, it must necessarily be treated in the manner recommended for the cure of that disease, by bleeding copiously in full habits, and keeping the bowels in a laxative state for many days. When it arises from diminished energy of the ner- vous system, both internal and external stimulants are required. In this state, a table-spoonful of horse radish scraped, or the same quantity of mustard-seed swal- lowed three or four times a- day, will have a good ef- fect. The volatile alkali is also of infinite service in large doses. At the some time external stimulants must be duly attended to, such as dry frictions over the part affected, with a flesh brush or rough cloths, and the Hypochondriac Disease. 359 flower of mustard, or flannels impregnated with the oil of turpentine, volatile liniment, or oil of sassafras, to which should be added some of the tincture of cantha- rides. Stimulating the part with nettles has produced good effects, as well as electricity, particularly in local palsies. A seton in the neck, particularly if the patient is affected with giddiness, will afford considerable re- lief, and should not be neglected. Cases of palsy have been cured by a salivation. If the disease is in consequence of a curvature in the back bone, compressing the spinal marrow, a perpetual blister or issue over the part affected, or on each side of the diseased portion of the bone, is the only remedy. A local palsy, particularly when it is confined to one muscle, will generally yield to the application of a blis- ter as near to the part affected as possible. Regimen. In plethoric habits the diet should be of the lightest kind; but quite the contrary in debilitated habits. In such cases the diet should be warm and strengthening, seasoned with spices and aromatic in- gredients, and the drink must be generous wine, mus- tard whey, ginger tea, or brandy and water. Flannel worn next the skin is peculiarly proper, so is regular exercise, when not carried to fatigue, or used in a cold damp air. HYPOCHONDRIAC DISEASE, f Commonly called Vapours^ or Low Spirits. J This complaint chiefly occurs in the male, and that at advanced life; and it is confined, for the most part, to persons of a sedentary or studious disposition; espe- cially such as have indulged grief or anxiety. Symptoms. Languor, listlessness, or want of reso- lution and activity, with respect to all undertakings— a disposhion to seriousness, sadness, and timidity as to all future events — an apprehension of the worst or most unhappv state of them, and therefore often, on 360 Hypochondriac Disease* slight ground, a dre d of great evil. Such persons are particularly aiientive to the state of their own healrh. and to the smallest change of feeling in their bodies; from any unusual sensation, perhaps of the slightest kind, they apprehend great danger, and even death itself; and, in respect to all their feelings and apprehen- sions, there is, for the most part, unfortunately, the most obstinate belief and persuasion. This diseased state of mind, is sometimes attended with symptoms of indigestion, hysterical affections, and sometimes with melancholy; but these are merely ef- fects. Causes. Indolence — violent passions of the mind - — the suppression of customary evacuations — obstruc- tions of some of the viscera, &.C.; but its immediate cause appears to be a loss of energy in the brain, or tor- pid state of the nervous system. It would appear, how^ ever, that these complaints proceed from an original affection of the stomach. Treatment. The cure of this disease seems to de- pend on exciting the nervous energy which is depress- ed, and that particularly by attending to the state of mind. A constant state of motion should therefore be ad- vised, especially by riding on horseback, and making long journies which presents new objects to the view. Nothing is more pernicious in this disease, than idle- ness; but in avoiding it, all application to former stu- dies, are to be prevented. The present emotions must be favoured and indulged; and though an attempt should be made to withdraw the attention of such pa- tients from themselves, yet their confidence ought first to be gained; and since the persuasion of their own opinion is strong, and the infallibility of their own fears and sensations rooted, however absurb thece may be, they require a very nice management,* Raillery * Some Hypochondriacs have fancied themselves miserably Hypochondriac Disease. 361 must never be attempted. From this supposed bodily affection, the mind should be diverted by employments suitable to the circumstances and situation in life, and afflicted in one ^vay, and some in another — some have insisted that they were tea pots, and some that they were town clocks— This that he liad a big belly, and that his glass legs — one that he was extremely ill, and another that he was actually dying. But I have never heard of any of this blue-devil class, whose extrava- gance ever yet came up to the following, which was related to me by my noble hearted old friend, the late Dr. Stevenson, of Baltimore, whose very name always sounds in my ears, as the summary of every manly virtue. This Hypochondriac, who by the bye was a patient of Dr. Ste- venson, after ringing the change on every mad conceit that ever tormented a crazy brain, would have it at last that he was dead, ac- tually dead. Dr. Stevenson having been sent for one morning in great haste, by the wife of his patient, hastened to his bed side, where he found him stretched out at full length, his hands across his breast, his great toes in contact, his eyes and mouth closely- shut, and his looks cadaverous. Well, Sir, how do you do? how do you do this morning? asked Dr. Stevenson, in his blustering jocular way, approaching his bed. " How do I do," replied the Hypochondriac faintly — " a pretty question to ask a dead mam" " Dead!" replied the Doc- tor. " Yes, Sir, dead, quite dead. I died last night about twelve o'clock." Quick as lightening Dr. Stevenson caught his cue, which was to strike him on the string of his character, on which the Doctor happily recollected he was very tender. Having gently put his hand on the forehead of the Hypochondriac, as if to ascertain whether it was cold, and also felt his pulse, he exclaimed in a doleful note, " Yes, the poor man is dead enough — it is all over with him, and now the sooner he can be buried the better." Then stepping up to his wife, and whispering her not be frightened at the measures he was about to take, he called to the servant, " My boy, your poor master is dead. And the sooner he can be put in the ground the better. Run to Mr. C — m, for I know he always keeps New England coffins by him ready made, and do you hear, bring a coffin of the largest size, for your master makes a stout corpse, and having died last night, and the weather warm, he will soon begin to smell." Away went the servant, and soon returned with a proper cof- fin. The wife and family having got their lesson from the Doctor, gatli-ired around him, and howled no little, while they were put- ting (he body in the coffin — Presently the pall-bearers who were quickly provided and let into the secret, started with the Hypo- chondriac for the church-yard. They had not gone far before they were met by one of the towns-people, who having been properly 2 Z 362 Hypochondriac Disease, unattended with niuch emotion, anxiety, or fatigue. Company which engages attention, and is at the same time of a cheerful kind, will always be found of great drilled by the facetious Stevenson, cried out, " Ah Doctorl what poor soui have you got iheref" Poor Mr B sighed the Doctor — " left us last night." " Great pity he had not left us twenty years ago,** replied the other, for he was a bad man.** Presently anothei of the towns-men met them with the same question. \nd what poor soul have you goi there Doctor?** " Poor Mr. B ," answered the Doctor again, " is dead.** Ahl indeedl" said the other. " And so the devil has got his own ai last. " Oh villain!'* exclaimed the man in the coffin, " if I was not DEAD, how 1 would pay you for that.** Soon after this, while the pall-bearers were resting themselves near the church-yard, another one stepped up with the old ques- tion again, what poor soul have you got there Doctor?" " Poor Mr. B he replied, " is gone.'* " Yes, and to h — 11, said the other, for if he is not gone there, I see not what use there is for such a place.'* Here the dead man bursting off the lid of the coffin, which had been purposely left loose, leapt out exclaiming,." Oh, you villain! I am gone to h — II, am 1! — Well, 1 have come back again to pay such ungrateful rascals as you are." A race was immediately commenced between the dead man and the living, to the petrifying consternation of many of the spectators, at sight of a corpse, bursting from the cof- fin, and in all the horrors of the winding sheet, racing through the streets. After having exercised himself in a copious perspiration by this fantastic chace, the Hypochondriac v/as brought home by Dr. Stevenson, freed of all his complaints. And by strengthen- ing food, generous wine, cheerful company, and moderate exer- cise, was soon restored to perfect health. To demonstrate further, the happy effects of possessing quick wit, " to shoot lolly as it flies." I will cite another case of Hy- pochondriasm, which came under the care of that Philanthropic and learned physician, the late Doctor Crawford, of Baltimore, who in every thing amiable and good, was not unlike his intimate friend, Doctor Stevenson. A certain Hypochondriac, who for a long time fancied himself dying of a liver complaint, was advised by Dr. Crawford, to make a journey to the state of Ohio. After an excursion of three months he returned home, apparently in good health: but upon receiving information of the death of a twin brother who had actually died of a schirrhus liver, he immediately took the staggers, and fall- ing down roared out that he was dead, and had, as he always ex- pected, died of a liver complaint. Dr. Crawford being sent for, immediately attended, and asked the Hypochondriac how he couW Hypochondriac Disease. 363 service. The occasional reading of entertaining books, or playing at any game, in which some skill is required, and where the stake is not an object of much anxiety, if not too long protracted, will further assist in diverting the mind from itself. The symptoms of indigestion, and hysteric com- plaints, that so frequently attend this state of mind, al- though the effect, rather than the cause, are objects of practice; inasmuch as they tend to aggravate and real- ize the false apprehensions of the patient. These se- condary affections require the same mode of treatment as recommended for indigestion and the hysteric dis- ease. The warm bath is peculiarly beneficial in this complaint, and when the system becomes somewhat invigorated, the cold bath may be employed with ad- vantage, provided there exists no obstructions in the bowels, — From an acid acrimony generally prevailing in the stomach, the rust of steel, or filings of iron in doses of ten grains thrice a-day, is the most salutary medicine of all the tonics. Magnesia and lime water are useful on the same account. Regimen. A proper diet constitutes an essential part, in the treatment of this malady. In general, light animal food is what alone agrees with such patients; for there are few, if any vegetables, which do not prove be dead, seeing he could talk. But still he would have it that he was actually dead. Whereupon the sagacious Doctor exclaimed, " O yes, the gentleman is certaily dead, and it is more than pro- bable, his liver was the death of him. However, to ascertain the fact, I will hasten to cut him open before putrefaction takes place." —And thereupon getting a carving knife, and wheting it as a butcher would to open a dead calf, he stepped up to him and be- gan to open his waistcoat, when the Hypochondriac, horribly- frightened, leaped up with the agility of a rabbit, and crying out " Murderl Murderl Murderl" ran off with a speed that would have defied a score of Doctors to catch him. After running a con- siderable distance, until he was almost exhausted, he halted; and not finding the Doctor at his heels, soon became composed. From that period this gentleman was never known to complain of his liver; nor had he for better than twenty years afterwards any symptom of this disease. 364 Cramp, flatulent in their bowels. Acids are particularly inju- rious. All malt liquors, except porter, are apt to excite too high a fermentation in the stomach; and wines, for the most part, arc liable to the same objections. If an exception can be made in favour of any, it is good old Madeira, if it can be obtained, which not only promotes digestion, and invigorates the concoctive powers, but acts, immediately, as a generous and wholesome cor- dial. The use of spirituous liquors is not to be recom- mended as a habitual resource, though they may be taken occasionally, in a moderate quantity, diluted with water. Tea and coffee, though hurtful to people with bad digestion, are often useful, however, to the hypo- chondriac. Moderate exercise we have already obser- ved, is indispensible in the cure of this complaint; and it cannot be taken any way with so much advantage, as in long journies, when convenient, accompanied with such circumstances, as may convert them into an agree- able amusement. CRAMP. A PAINFUL spasm of the calf of the leg or muscles of the toes, and sometimes of the stomach. Causes. Sudden stretching of the limbs — advanced pregnancy — acidity — indigestion, &;c. Treatment. A cramp of the calf of the leg is best relieved by standing up, which simple act, by throwing the weight of the body on the toes, forcibly extends die muscles, and thus takes off the spasm. If the cramp arises from acidity or indigestion, give every night a pill composed of half a grain of opium, with six grains each, of rhubarb and prepared chalk, and administer ten grains of the rust of steel, morning and noon. A cramp of the stomach is best treated by an infu- sion of red pepper, (see Materia Medica,) or a large dose of aether or laudanum, accompanied with friction on the part, either by a flesh brush, or flannel. When Tetany y or Locked Jaw, 365 these fail, a very copious bleeding will sometimes re- move the spasm, after which the patient must be purged. Persons subject to the cramp in the leg, may prevent it by wearing stockings in bed, and occasionally rub- bing the part with camphorated oil. According to vul- gar authority, sulphur grasped in the hand, is good to cure, and carried in the pocket to prevent cramp. TETANY, OR LOCKED JAW. Symptoms. A rigid and painful contraction of all or several of the muscles. Its first symptoms is a stiff- ness in the back of the neck, increasing to pain, ex- tending next to the root of the tongue, then shooting into the breast, and lastly seizing the back. Causes. Wounds of the head, or extremities — and punctures of the slightest kind, as running a splinter under the nail, or into the toe or finger. It is equally induced from cold or moisture, particu- larly when sudden vicissitudes prevail, or sleeping on damp ground. Treatment. Give on the first appearance of this disease, two or three tea-spoonfuls of laudanum or three or four grains of opium, to be repeated every two hours or oftencr, with a half pint or more of wine or strong spirits and water, between the doses. These re- medies should be increased and carried to the utmost extent, as the symptoms may indicate. If these should fail to relieve the spasm; give from twenty to thirty drops of the tincture of (see Recipe 56) cantharides every hour, until it produces stranguary or a difficulty of urine. As soon as this occurs, it must be discontinued, and flaxseed or marsh mallow tea, or barley water drank freely, and some of it injected by way of glysters, to which may be occasionally added, a tea-spoonful or two of laudanum. Cold water poured suddenly on the shoulders, has 366 Palpitation of the Heart. sometimes done admirable service, and which may al- ways be looked for, if the patient after being wiped dry and put to bed, feel a kindly glow over the system. — Otherwise the cold bath should be laid aside; and the warm bath in its place, accompanied with diaphoretic medicines, as the anodyne sudorific drops, (see Recipe 17) in larger doses than usual for promoting perspira- tion. On the decline of the spasm, bark with wine and opiates at bed time should be given until the patient's health is reinstated. (See Tobacco Materia Medica.) In every stage of the disease, it is of importance to keep the bowels open, by the usual stimulating purga- tives or glysters. Tetanus has oftentimes yielded to a salivation. When local injuries have been the cause of this dis- order, the wound should be dilated and filled with com- mon salt, Spanish flies, or turpentine, and afterwards dressed with warm poultices until the wound be brought to a state of good digestion. If a wounded finger or toe be the cause of this horrible malady, it ought instandy to be cut olF. PALPITATION OF THE HEART. Symptoms. In this disease, the motion of the heart is performed with more rapidity, and generally with greater force than usual; which may not only be felt by the hand, but often he perceived by the eye, and even heard; there is frequently a difficulty of breathing, a purplish hue of the cheeks and lips, and a variety of anxious and painful sensations: it sometimes terminates in sudden death. Causes. A morbid enlargement of the heart itself, and of the large vessels — organic affections — an heredi- tary dispositioi! — plethora — debility or a morbid con- dition of the system — mal-confirmation of the chest, and many of the causes inducing fainting. Treatment. The exciting causes must be avoided or removed, if they are within our power. Hiccup, 367 When the disease arises from plethora, and the action of the heart is violent, bleeding is indispensible, which should be followed by a cooling cathartic; and after- wards the tincture of digitalis, in doses from ten to twenty drops thrice a-day, by lessening the action of the arterial system, will effect a cure. When there is reason to believe this affection is in consequence of debility, the solution of arsenic in its usual doses, taken for some time, is a certain remedy. When the nervous system is afl'ected, small doses of aether or laudanum, will be found very serviceable. Those who are subject to a palpitation of the heart should carefully avoid violent exercise, irregular pas- sions, and all circumstances that may tend to increase the action of the sanguiferous system. HICCUP. Is a spasmodic affection of the diaphragm, and some- times of the stomach; from the irritation of acidity, poisons, &c. Treatment. When acidity is pointed out to be the cause, give the absorbent mixture (see Recipe 8) or twenty drops of hartshorn with a tea-spoonful of mag- nesia in a cup of mint tea, or a spoonful or two of milk and lime water: and to prevent its recurrence, take ten grains of the rust of steel thrice a-day. When occa- sioned by poisons or improper food, an emetic will be proper. If the spasm continues violent, resort to small doses of «ther or laudanum, or the camphorated julep. (See Recipe 12.) Preserved damsons have been found of excellent use in this complaint, in the quantity of a tea- spoonful every hour, or oftener. In weak stomachs oppressed with indigestible food, a glass of good wine or spirit and water often relieves. iEtiier apphed externally to the stomach on a softhnen rag with a warm hand to coidine it, is a good remedy; so is the application of a buster in obstinate cases. A 368 Night Mare, — Asthma, sudden alarm has often succeeded in curing this affec- tioHj^after every other means had failed. NIGHT MARE. SvMPtoMS. An alarming oppression or weight about the breast, with dread of suffocation. Causes. Late and excessive suppers — great fatigue — drunkenness, or sleeping on the. back. Treatment. If the patient be of a plethoric habit, bleed, purge, and use a spare diet. And when the dis- ease is the consequence of debility and weak nerves, the tonic medicines, as steel, bark or columbo, in their usual doses, are proper. Prevention. The patient should sleep on a hard bed, which invites to frequent changes of sides, eat light suppers, which with due exercise, and cheerful- ness during the day, form the best preventive remedies. ASTHMA. Is often hereditary. When attended with an expec- toration of phlegm, it is termed moist or humoral; and when with little or none, dry or nervous asthma. Symptoms. It generally attacks at night with a sense of tightness across the breast, and impeded respi- ration. The person thus taken, if in a horizontal situa- tion, is obliged immediately to get into an erect pos- ture, and solicits a free and cold air. In violent parox- ysms, speaking is difficulty and uneasy. Treatment. On the first attack asthma, bleed- ing is serviceable, if the pain in the chest, and difficj^lty of breathing be considerable; but less so afterwards, since the disease has a natural tendency to take off the plethoric state of the system. Heart-Burn, 369 When the fit comes on in consequence of a loaded stomach, an emetic will be found serviceable. A cup of strong coffee has oftentimes afforded great relief; and when the disease proceeds from the irritation of mucus, a spoonful or two of vinegar in a glass of cold water is a good remedy. As in other spasmodic affections, the most powerful antispasmodics, as laudanum and aether, should be re- sorted to. These may be given conjointly or separately, but in large doses, to allay the violence of the fit, or to prevent its accession. Thus half a tea- spoonful of lau- danum, or one of aether, to be repeated in an hour, if necessary, in a glass of cold water, has frequently re- lieved the symptoms, or when taken at the approach of the fit, have suppressed it altogether. In every stage of this disease, the greatest attention must be paid to keep the bowels open by mild laxatives or giysters. Accordin.s^ to Dr. Cutler, the emetic weed, (see Ma- teria Medico) is the most certain remedy in this com- plaint. Regimen. A light diet, easily digestible and not fla- tulent, is always proper for asthmatic persons; and du- ring the fit, cool drinks and fresh air are proper. It will will always be found serviceable to wear a flannel shirt and to keep the feet warm. Prevention. During the absence of the paroxysm, tonic medicines and the cold bath, together with mode- rate exercise, will be most efficacious in obviating its recurrence. HEART-BURN. Symptoms. A burning sensation about the pit of the stomach, with acid eructations, flatulence, and some- times retching to vomit. Causes. A relaxed state of the stomach, generating various acidities and acrimonies from food too long de- 3 A 570 Indigestion^ or tained. As it is often a symptom of indigestion, the cause may be found under the head of the following chapter. Treatment. The first indication is to remove the unpleasant sensations existing, which may be done by taking either a small tea-spoonful of salt of tartar, or a table spoonful of magnesia in a glass of mint- water or tea, or a wine-glass full of each, of lime-water and new milk; or a tumbler of mucilage of gum arabic or flax- seed tea taken cold, with a small piece of liquorice ball dissolved in it. But to cure the disease effectually, after an emetic, give ten grains of the rust of steel thrice a- day for some time, and keep the bowels moderately open with magnesia or the root of rhubarb chewed occasion- ally, or the tincture of it, (see Recipe 52,) taken in small doses. If acrid bile be the cause of heart- burn, a tea- spoonful of the spirits of nitre in a glass of the infusion of columbo gives ease, and combined with elixir vitriol, in their usual doses, ensures the cure. In this disease, great benefit has been experienced an«l someiimes a complete cure effected, by the appli- cation of a blister to the pit of the stomach. To render it the more efficacious, the blister should be kept run- ning for at least a week. I Regimen. The diet of those who are subject to this complaint, should consist chiefly of animal food; and all fermented or acid liquors and greasy ahment, must be strictly avoided. A glass of brsmdy, or gin and water, after dinner is the best beverage. Moderate exercise is particularly beneficial. INDIGESTION, OR WEAKNESS OF THE STOMACH. Symptoms. Want of appetite — nausea — sometimes vomiting — heart- burn — costiveness — distentions of the stomach, particularly upon taking a small quantity of food — f^'equcnt risings into the throat of a sharp acid li- quor, and eructations of imperfectly digested matter. Weakness of the Stomach, 371 Causes. Errors and irregularities in the mode of liv- ing — cold and moisture — intense stud} — depressing passions — and abuse of tobacco, opium or spirits. Treatment. If the patient complain of oppressed stomach, with nausea, give a vomit of ipecacuar.ha; and afterwards the columbo in substance or tincture, in a glass of strong mint- water, three or four times a-day, now and then interposing a dose of the tincture of rhu- barb, (see Recipe 52.) to prevent costiveness. A mix- ture of mustard seed with the columbo is of great uti- lity, particularly when acidity and flatulence prevail; as also lime-water in doses of a wine-glass full thrice a-day. If the disease, as is too often the case, has been brought on by hard drinking, its only radical cure is to be found in temperance, cordial nourishment, exercise and the use of elixir vitriol with bark, or the tonic powder or pills (See Recipe 4 & 23.) When the patient complains of a pain in the stomach, resort to the remedies for heart-burn, and use friction with a flesh brush or flannel over the part. Shoul^ this fail, give a dose of aether or laudanum; and in case of costiveness, administer an injection. This treatment will generally palliate the pain, after which endeavour to restore the tone of^the stomach by tonic medicines, as bark, columbo, steel, &c. The costiveness peculiar to persons in this complaint, must be removed by medicines which gently solicit the intestines to a jnore regular discharge ot their contents; and this effect is best obtained by flour of sulphur, mag- nesia, or rhubarb chewed every day, and only the saliva swallowed. Strong purgatives are unfit to correct habits of costiveness, as they weaken the action of the intestines, and thereby increase the complaint when the evacuation is over. But nothing can so effectually obviate this affection, as a constant custom most sacredly observed, ol gomg every morning to the privy, although you have not a natural inclination. Should indigestion arise from a deficiency of bile, give 372 Colic, morning' and noon about twenty grains of ox gall, o the same quantity of columbo, when the former canno be obtained. In some cases, particularly of old age, the digestion is injured by putrid matter, from decayed teeth, con- stantly mixed with the saliva; and thence affectin the organs of taste, and destroying the appetite. To correct this, wash the mouth frequently with a solution of akim or lime water, or which is preferable, with fine charcoal powder, (see Receipe 5) diffused in warm water. Regimen. The diet should consist chiefly of animal food well chewed, and taken in small quantities, follow- ed with a glass of brandy and water, or good wine. — Frequent friction with a flesh brush or flannel over the region of the stomach and belly will be found exceeding- ly beneficial. Afier taking a puke, we have known a milk diet, persevered in for several weeks, effectually cure indi- gestion. This article, almost always offends the stomach at first; but, by continuance, becomes agreeable to it, and effects a cure. The milk should be new, and fiee from acidity. Early rising and moderate exercise in the morning air can hardly be enough recommended, inasmuch as they contribute so happily to restore the tone of the stomach, as also of the whole system. It is impossible to furnish a plan of regimen adapted to every constitution and habit, but if the patient will but pay due attention to what benefits, and what injures him, wisely regulating his mode of living by the infor- mation thus obtained, his present maladies will soon disanpear, and their future recurrence be for ever inhi- bited. COLIC. Symptoms. A violent pain in the bowels originating from constriction, attended with costiveness and some- times vomiting. The pain is commonly seated about the Colic* 373 navel, and resembles various sensations, as of burning, twisting, boring, or a ligature drawn very tight across the intestines. It comes on without fever, but which soon follows, especially if inflammation lake place in the intestine af- fected, and then all the symptoms become greatly ag- gravated. Causes. Flatulence — indigestible aliment taken in- to the stomach — acrid bile — hardened faeces — costive- ness — worms — drinking too freely of acids — intermit- tents improperly cured — sudden check of perspiration — and the application of poisons, such as lead, &:c. &c. Treatment. When the disease evidently arises from wind (as may be known by a rumbling in the bow- els, by pressure on the belly, or by the ease experienc- ed from a discharge of it, or by the patient's lying on the belly,) a glass of brandy, gin, strong mint- water, or tea made of ginger or calimus, will generally give relief. But it is only in colic from wind that these hot spiritu- ous and carminative substances are to be used, for in all other cases they do great harm, and often destroy life. Where the pain is fixed and acute, bleeding is advi- sable, particularly in full habits, to prevent inflammation. Next the action of the intestines must be excited by brisk purgatives, such as castor oil, calomel and jalap, or salts, senna and manna, aided by stimulating glys- ters. If these means prove inefliicacious, immediate re- course must be had to the warm bjth, in which the patient should remaui as long as he can bear it. — Where a bathing vessel cannot be procured, flannels wrung out of hot water should be frequently applied over the belly as warm as can be endured. Tobacco glysters, two drachms of the leaves in a decoction, may be administer- ed; and when the pain continues obstinate, a large blis- ter ought to be applied over the belly. If the above remedies prove ineftectual, opium and calomel in large doses should be employed. To their exceeding utility in obstinate colic, I can subscribe, 374 Colic. from numberless successful experiments, made by my- self* Eminent modern physicians advise, that when all other means are despaired of, the patient should be pla- ced erect on the floor, and a pail of cold water thrown on his feet and legs; this, though apparently a droll re- medy, yet certainly deserves to be tried in desperate cases, especially as we are assured from the best autho- rity, that it has often succeeded: it acts, as is said, by occasioning an immediate evacuation of the bowels. For the vomiting which often occurs in, this disease, common garden mint, peppermint, (see Materia Medi- ca) or any other spices boiled in wine or spirits, and^ flannels wrung out of it, and laid hot on the pit of the stomach, are excellent, especially if a little laudanum be added. If acrid bile be thrown up, the saline mixture, or infusion of columbo should be given; and when vomit- * How I came in possession of this admirable secret, both jus- tice and gratitude require that I should explain. In the year 1801, I spent several weeks in Georgetown, Colum- bia district. While there, I was requested to visit a Mr. James Tur- ner, who had long been indisposed with the ague and fever; but then suffering under a severe attack of the colic, accompanied with most obstinate costiveness. For three or four days the best aperients, as calomel, castor oil, salts, senna and manna, and injections, with the warn\ bath, and blisters, were used, but without effect. Be- ing much alarmed about his situation, I stated the case to my very excellent friend, the ingenious and learned Qoctor John Weems, who advised the immediate use of six grains of opium, with twen- ty of calomel in a bolus; and one third of that dose every two hours afterwards, if the first failed to operate. I expressed my fears that so large a ^lose of opium might do harm. " No, sir," re- plied he, 'tis small does that do harm; give large doses, large enough to take the spas?Bs, and you save the patient." I still retained my repugnance; however, recollecting his great inedical attainments, and the desperate case of my patient, i acced- ed lo his advice, and scarcely was the second dose swallowed, be- fore it began to operate like a charm. The spasm was taken oft' the intestines — copious foetid evacuations succeeded, and our pa- tient was presently restored. This is but one of many extraordinary cures performed by Doctor John Weems. The* citize*ns of Georgetown and Wasfiing- •ton, will long lament the early fate of this gentlemen, of whom for ardent friendship, and medical sagacity, I can truly say — his equal I have seldom seen, his superior nex/t?r. Cholera Morbus, or Vomiting and Purging, 375 ing is attended with cold extremities, a bl ster to the back often relieves this symptom. Vomiting, in this disease, is also frequently removed by a blister on the pit of the stomach. Regimen. Evacuations being once produced, mu- cilaginous drinks and light diet should be strictly adher- ed to; and the bowels kept moderately open by mild purgatives, giving opiates at bed-time if necessary, until the'sorenebs and distention of the belly go oiF; and no hardened fasces appear in the stool. When recovered, the patient should cautiously avoid whatever may lead to a relapse, especially acid and fla- tulent food, costiveness, and taking cold. CHOLERA MORBUS, OR VOMITING AND PURGING. Causes. It is generally occasioned by a redundan- cy and acrimony of the bile — indigestible food or such as becomes rancid or acid on the 'stomach — poisons — strong acrid purges or vomits — passions of the miiid, or a sudden check of perspiration. Treatment. Endeavour as early as possible to ex- pel the acrimonious matter which affects the alimentary canal, by large and repeated draughts of chicken water, beef tea, barley or rice water, or thin gruel, &c. which should also be given freely in glysters. After having cleansed the stomach and intestines, give a tea- spoon- ful! of asiher, or thii ty or forty drops of laudanum, in mint- water or tea, and repeat the dose every hour or of- tener, as. the frequency of the evacuations or the urgen- cy' of the pain may require. If the laudanum be rejected from the stomach, give opium in pilfeof half a grain, repeated every half hour, or every hour, at farthest, until the disease be checked. In general, this mode of treatment is sufficient; but if the patient be of a plethoric habit, he ought to lose blood immediately; and in case the pain continues violent, be placed in the warm bath; should the bathing vessel not 376 Diarrhoea^ or Looseness. be at hand, peppermint stewed in spirits, or cloths wrung out of hot spirits or decoctions of camomile, hoDs, O! lavender, ought to be applied to the stomach and belly, and often renewed. If acrid bile be the cause of this complaint, the infu- sion of columbo (see Recipe 39,) must be given every half hour or oftener, in large doses; and in case of great heat, a small quantity of nitre in the patient's drink, will be proper. When the disease originates from food, either very acid or putrid, besides plentiful dilution with the above drinks, give castor oil, salts or rhubarb; and if from poisons swallowed, the patient should drink largely of pure sweet oil, melted butter, or mucilaginous drinks, with small portions of salt of tartar. Regimen. As no disease more suddenly weakens the patient, he should take freely of a light but cordial and nourishini^ diet, occasionally assisting his appetite, if deficient, with elixir vitriol, tincture of bark, or hifu- sion of columbo. If he cannot sleep well, an opiate at bed-time may be taken, until his strength and spirits return. DIARRHCEA, OR LOOSENESS. Symptoms. A purging without sickness or pain, succeeded by loss of appetite. Causes. Acid or putrid aliments — obstructed pers- piration — acrid bile — drinking bad water — worms — vi- olent passions, or a translation of morbid matter of other diseases to the bowels. Treatment. If offending matter be lodged in the stomach, give an emetic, and opiate at bed time; and on the succeeding day if the disease is not removed, a dose of rhubarb or castor oil, follovi^ed by forty drops of lau- danum at night. If the disease be in consequence of cold, and the skin be dry, the ntimonial mixture see (Recipe 6) exhibit- ed in small doses during the day, and the anodyne su- Colic, 577 dorific bolus or draught (see Recipe 20 & 18,) repeated at bed-time, with a flannel shirt, will geiierally effect a cure. When bile is indicated to be the cause, the columbo in decoction or powder, will be found admirable; and if ac- companied with sour and debilitated stomach, the tonic powders or pills, (see Recipe 4 23) with exercise, are the best remedies. Where bad water is in fault, it should instantly be changed or corrected by wine, brandy, or porter; remembering that in all cases of continued eva- cuation, laudanum may be given at night after the sto- mach and bowels have been cleared. When worms iixluce this disease, which may be known from the sliminess of the stools, and bad breath, such medicines as are calculated to destroy them must be employed. Afterwards a wine-glass full of lime-water, with an equal quantity of new milk, will be proper three times a-day. In obstinate cases, no medicine is superior to the con- tinued use of the vitriolic solution (see Recipe 7) with an opiate at bed-time. The nausea which this medicine produces is very disgusting, but from that circumstance much of its efficacy 'is derived. Should a common dose fail to nauseate, it should be increased until that symp- tom is eftected. The blackberry, (see Materia Medica^) conjoined with a small -portion of cinnamon, ginger, calamus, or some aromatic, is also a valuable remedy. Regimen. The diet should consist of arrov/ root, sago, rice milk, and the white meats.* The drinks may be of the diluting kind, as already enumerated; — genuine wine may also be allowed, if it does not turn souf on the stomach. Moderate exercise is peculiarly useful, amd no- thing facilitates the cure more than flannel next the skin.* ♦This was the Angel in disguise," that opened the prison doors of this uneasy life, and gave happy freedom to my ever-re- vered father, Colonel Jesse Ewell, of Virginia. My sister Charlotte celebrated his virtues in an Elegy, the following extracts frora ' 3 B 378 DROPSY. A collection of water, in some part of the body. Symptoms. In common dropsies, the legs usually swell, and a pit remains for some time after pressing the flesh — the appetite abates — the face is bloated — urine little — thirst great; with slow fever, shortness of breath, and lassitude. Causes. Excessive drinking — poor diet — protracted which I beg permission of the reader to insert, as a small tribute of gratitude to the best of parents, and but a faint portraiture of his worth. " Early he woo'd fair virtue for his guide, And rarely wanderM from her guardian side; By him the needy never were denied, He sooth'd their sorrows, and their wants supplied. He mourn'd the contests of the neighbouring poor, And open'd wide his peace-restoring door; Where soon his wisdom taught their strifes to cease, Reviv'd their loves, and sent them home in peace. The slaves whom Hcav'n to his care consign'd, Ne'er felt the terrors of a slavish mind; Well fed, warm clad, to moderate labours prest. They lov'd their fetters, and their bondage blest. As FRIEND — as FATHER — who his praise can tell? W^here first begin, or with due raptures swell? To check our wrong, his frowns were ever light, And sweet his smiles whene'er we chose the right. And when at length the awful hour drew nigh. To waft his spirit to its native sky, Such in that moment as in all the past, " Oh bless my children, Heav'n !" was still his last. Now scap'd from earth, with God he dwells above, And shares with angels in their feasts of love. Then come, blest faith, come hasten to my aid, licst grief profaiTe disturb his happy shade; Teach me to bow submissive — and adore, Th' unerring counsels of eternal power, Which gives in love, or still in love denies. And makes e'en " crosses, blessings in disguise." And thou, fond memory, still my sire recall, Record his virtues, imitate them all — That joys like his my mortal life may prove, And peace eternal crown ray state above." Dropsy. 379 iiitermittents — scirrhous tumours of the abdominal vis- cera, but particularly of the liver; and in fine, whatever may occasion too free a secretion of the, serous fluids in the cellular membrane, or any cavity of the body, and at the same time diminish the action of the absorbent ves- sels. Treatment. Like other diseases, the treatment must vary according to circumstances. In every form of dropsy, if there be a hard, full and quick pulse, blood- letting constitutes one of the principal remedies, ai^d must be repeated once or twice a week, until the action of the arterial system is considerably diminished. Brisk purges, as calomel and jalap in full doses, are indispensable, and ought always to succeed bleeding, and be given as often as the patient's strength will ad- mit, followed by the anodyne sudorific bolus or draught at bed- time. (See Recipe 20 &: 18.) While feverish symptoms continue, nitre is extremely useful in this disease, in doses of ten grains four or five times a- day, or in such quantities as the stomach may bear; but should never be continued longer than two weeks, if no good effects result from its use. iVnother valuable me- dicine for lessening the action of the pulse, and thereby increasing absorption, is the fox- glove, (see Materia Medica,) which maybe given in powder, decoction or tincture. The latter is the most convenient form; and in doses of twenty or thirty drops in a wine-glass of mint water, m^ay be taken twice or thrice a-day, until the water is removed, or the inflammatory disposition taken off*. If this quantity do not induce sickness, or produce any evident good effect, the dose must be gradually in- creased to forty or sixty drops or farther. Cream of tartar, from half an ounce to an ounce dissol- ved in a pint or more of water, is a pleasant and useful drink, and this taken early in the morning has frequently succeeded in evacuating the water. As soon as the action of the pulse becomes lessened, it is necessary to strengthen the system and increase the digestive powers, by the exhibition of steel alone, or the 380 Gout. tonic powders, pills or drops (Recipe 4, 23 &: 19) thrice a-day, diirine^ the intervals of purging. In weak habits, accompanied with obstruction of the viscera and feeble pulse, stimulating medicines, as calomel in small doses to excite ptyalism; and afterwards tonic medicines, with a generous diet, form the most valuable remedy. The juice of leeks in dobes of a spoonful twice a-day is said to have performed surprising cures; at any rate, in this state of the disease the patient can hardly make too free a use of the acrid stimulating vegetables, as garlic, onions. Sec. Tight bandages applied in the morning round the belly and limbs, have their good effects in preventing the increase or return of dropsical swelling. Friction with a flesh brush or flannel every morning from the ex- tremities upwards, is of the greatest service; particular- ly if the skin be previously moistened with the volatile liniment, composed of equal parts of soap, spirit and vi- negar. Regimen. During the inflammatory disposition, or when there is a preternatural heat on the skin, or much action in the pulse, the diet should be light and easy of digestion. In the other state, when the patient is weak and feeble, it should be of the most nourishing kind, with a liberal use of wine. Exercise is of the greatest importance when not carried to fatigue. In the lowest stage of the disease, swinging or riding in a carriage are most proper; but as soon as the patient's strength will admit of it, riding on horseback will be found most beneficial. GOUT Is often hereditary, but generally indolence and lux- ury are the hated parents of this disease, which righ- teous heaven has marked with such severity, that, like the leprosy of Naama, it is hardly ever curable.* * An English nobleman, after twenty years of riotous living, Gout. 381 But though art has not often succeeded to cure the gout, yet it has discovered a variety of means to shorten the fits, and render them much more tolerable. Symptoms. The gout mostly affects the joints, but the viscera are not exempt from its ravages. It sometimes comes on suddenly, passing from one part of the body to the other, in the twinkling of an eye; but generally is preceded by indigestion, flatulency, loss of appetite, unusual coldness of the feet and legs, wiih frequent numbness, sense of pricking, and cramp. These s} mp- toms take place several days before the paroxysm comes on, but commonly the day preceding it, the appetite becomes greater than usual. The next morning, the pa- tient is roused from his sleep, by an excruciating pain in the great toe, or ball of the foot, resembling the gnawing of a little dog. Treatment. No matter what part of the body this disease first seizes, the lancet will be required in every case where there is an increased action of the pulse, to take oft' the inflammatory disposition. The extent to which the blood-letiing must be carried, can only be ascertained by the violence of the disease, and the sex and constitution of the patient. In this, as in all inflam- matory fevers, the bowels ought to be kept open freely by laxative medicines, as castor oil, sulphv.r, cream of tartar, rhubarb, senna, jalap, or calomel. Indeed a fit of the gout may be oftentimes entirely, and almost instan- awoke one morning in the torments of the gout. Ashe iay writhing with pain, his servant ran up stairs to him with great joy in his countenance: " O! sir, good news! good newsl there is a tamous gout doctor below, who says he will veniure his cais, he can cure your honour in a week " " Ahl that is good news indeed, To.n; well, run my good boy, and put up his carriage and horse^, and treat the doctor like a prince." O sir, the genileman iias no carriage and horses; I believe he walked a foot!" "Walk a foot! what! cure the gout and walk a foot! go dov/n Tom, go down, and instantly drive the rascal out of the hou-^e; set the dogs upon hi.Tj, do you hear? the lying varlet! why if he co\ild cure the gout he might ride in a richer carriage than his majesty." 382 Gout, taneously removed by active purging. Even drastic purges need not be dreaded in this disease. Nitre with diluting liquors, given in such quantities as to excite a gentle perspiration, are of great utility in the inflammatory stage of the disease. After the ac- tion of the pulse is somewhat reduced by evacuations, blisters over the pained parts are greatly to be relied on. As soon as the inflammatory state of the gout has subsided, stimulants and tonic medicines, as bark and steel, are the best remedies. Laudanum, asther, good French brandy and aromatics, as calamus, ginger, Vir- ginia snake-root, and red pep])er, (see Materia Medica) in the form of teas, are all exceedingly useful in this feeble state of the disease, especially when it affects the stomach or bowels. Besides these internal remedies, frictions on the stomach and bowels, or the application of cloths wrung out of hot spirits or water, over the pained parts, and sinapisms to the feet, should be em- ployed, whenever the gout attacks the head, lungs, bowels or stomach. Gentlemen long in the habits of intimacy with this dis- ease, should remember that it is of immense rudeness, and ready on the slightest provocation to quit the toes and knuckles, and seize on the very stomach and bow- els of its best friends. They should therefore be con- stantly on their guard, and keep always by them a vial of asther or laudanum, or a case of good old French brandy;* the latter of which is admirable for chasing the gout from the stomach. * For lack of this ammunition, the gallant Wayne was cut off long before " his eye was dim, or his natural heat abated. " Late in De- cember, 1796, he embarked at Detroit for Presque Isle, but not without his usual supply of brandy, which however, was all lost, through his servant's carelessness in upsetting his case. On the passage he caught cold, which brought on a violent attack of the gout in the stomach; and, for want of his usual remedy, he suffer- ed the most excruciating torture until he reached Presque Isle, where he died early in January, 1797. His body was deposited in the centre of the fort, to show the children of future days, the grave of him who so bravely defended their liberties. Filial piety has since removed it to his native state, where it now sleeps with the dust of his fathers. I arn Gout, 383 The white hellebore (see Materia Medica,) is highly extolled as a remedy in this distressing disease. Regimen. The diet should be regulated according to the state of the patient. If feverish, and of a pletho- ric habit, the lightest diet ought to be used. If debilita- ted and of a relaxed habit, generous diet should be allowed. Exercise, although painful at first, must be freely taken. Prevention. If the person be plethoric, and has been accustomed to drink freely of wine, and eat hear- tily, he should gradually diminish the quantity of the aliment; particularly every spring and fall, as the dis- ease is more liable to recur at those seasons than at any other time. But in debilitating habits predisposed to the gout, a stimulating diet is most proper, assisted with the use of the rust of steel, bitters or bark. In every case, costiveness should be avoided; and flannel worn next to the skin is peculiarly proper. Nothing, however, prevents the disease, more than temperance and exer- cise.* I am happy to acknowledge, that for this anecdote, I am indebt- ed to the politeness of my worthy friend Captain Hugh M'Call, of Savannah. * The story of the wealthy Mr. Palmer in the reign of George I. though well known to many, is yet so apropos to our subject, that I cannot deny myself the wish to relate it. Young Mr. Palmer re- ceived from his father, what the London merchants call a plumb, (i. e.) a round 100,0001. of which he contrived to make such "good use." that by the time he was forty years of age, he was torn to pieces by the gout. His physicians advised him to try the virtues of a sea voyage with the soft balmy air of Montpelier. He set out, but on his passage up the Mediterranean, was captured by an Alge- rine corsair, who took him to Morocco, and sold him for a slave. He was bought by a farmer, who carried him into the country, and set him to hard labour, allowing him nothing better than brown bread and dates, and even of that hardly enough to support him. His only drink was water, and his only bed a plank. In a few weeks every gouty symptom disappeared, and he recovered his health, with an uncommon portion of activity. These first of blessings continued with him all the time he was in captivity, (two years,) at the expiration of which, he. was ran- 384 VENEREAL DISEASE. The venereal disease is of two species: the one, a local affection of the genital organs, termed Gonorrhoea, or Clap; and the other, a general or constitutional com- plaint, termed Syphilis, or Pox. THE GONORRHOEA, Of which we shall first treat, is an inflammation of the mucous membrane, lining the urethra in men, and the vagina in women; seated in the male about the frsenum of the penis, and in the female a small distance up the vagina; but in its progress communicating to all the surrounding parts, and producing a variety of pain- ful sensations. Symptoms. A discharge of mucus, at first white, but soon turning of a yellow or greenish appearance — an acute or scalding pain in making water, with most inde- cent erections of the penis, termed chordee, very pain- ful, and sometimes followed by a discharge of blood. — At times the inflammation spreads to the contiguous parts, occasioning strangury, swelled testicle, swelling in the groins similar to buboes, or a contraction and thick- ening of the fore-skin; which when drawn over the head or nut of the yard, is termed phymosis, and paraphy- mosis when retracted behind it. When these symptoms dance their attendance to the catastrophe, the clap may be said to flourish in its full bloom, and the patient finds himself fairly seated on the stool of repentance. somed by his friends. — On his return to England, he was hardly known 'i)y his acquaintances, so great was the change which tem- perance and exercise had wrought upon him. But alas! for the lack of fortitude, he soon relapsed into his old passion for the rich dishes, flowing glasses, and soft couches of epicurism. His system soon became bloated and relaxed; and his ancient foe, the :crou! returned, and killed him in a short time. Venereal Disease. 385 The appearance of a clap in the female, is pretty much the same as in the male, allowing for the difference of the parts. The disease in them is always milder, inso- much, that at times there is no other symptom but the discharge, which is often mistaken for the fluor albus. — They are, however, more subject to excoriations of the parts, than the men; and indeed, when the inflammation is considerable, it often extends to the urethra, and oc- casions great pain. Treatment. As the disease is local, topical appli- cations in the form of injections become necessary. The patient should therefore without delay employ one of the injections, (see Recipe 44 & 45,) which in irritable ha- bits, may be a little weakened, and the strength gradual- ly increased as the inflammation abates. Indeed, when the inflammation is very considerable, it is better at first, to inject with sweet oil or mucilage of sassafras; [see Materia Medico) and in such cases, the testicles ought to be suspended by a bandage, and the antiphlogistic regimen strictly adhered to, particularly in taking freely of mucilaginous drinks; as flaxseed tea, barley water, or the mucilage of gum arabic, and obviating costive- ness, by small and repeated doses of cream tartar. — Whichsoever of the injections is used, it must be thrown up the urethra six or eight times a-day, immediately af- ter making water, and with a syringe that works easily, that it may not hurt or inflame the parts. For the chordee, which occurs mostly in the night, give a dose of laudanum at bed-time, and rub the guilty member well night and morning, with mercurial oint- ment, or the camphorated liniment. Should a hemorrhage supervene, it may be removed by rest, and immersing the part often with cold vinegar and water, or lead water, of the ordinary strength, of which the patient may throw a little up. When the inflammatory symptoms of gonorrhoea in- crease to a violent degree, a swelling or inflammation of one or both testicles sometimes supervenes. The same consequence is often produced by astringent injection-s 3C 386 V enereal Disease. imprudently exhibited. In such cases the general reme- dies for allaying inflammation, as blood-letting, cooling cathartics, dikient drinks with small portions of nitre dis- solved in them, become necessary. Besides which, the testicles must be suspended by a bandage, and kept con- stantly moistened with cloths wrung out of lead water, or cold vinegar and water, often renewed. The swelling of the glands in the groins, and of the spermatic chord itself, require a similar treatment; which will also ^.uc- ceed in reducing the contraction or thickening of the fore- skin, should that symptom occur. In addition to this general treatment, when the penis is affected, it must be soaked every hour in warm milk and water or soap-suds, which should often be injected between the skin and the glands, to prevent the stagna- tion of matter, whose extreme acrimony might otherwise produce a mortification of the parts. In these affections, a horizontal posture, and spare diet, are particularly en- joined. In case of much pain with little or no fever, an opiate may be given at bed-time. And if hardness remain af- ter the pain, the patient should have mercurial ointment rubbed on the part, night and morning, and take freely of a strong decoction of sarsaparilla. But if a swelling without hardness, follow, one or two vomits, succeeded by tonic medicines, with the use of the cold bath, will generally cure. Such are the principal symptoms, which attend go- norrhoea. Its consequences, which induce a new state of disease, after the original affection is removed, are no less important. GLEET. This is known by a constant discharge of mucous matter, after the inflammatory symptoms have subsided; occasioned by the relaxation of the mucous glands, or stricture in the urethra. A discharge of this kind may also be occasioned by hard drinking, violent exercise, or straining. Venereal Disease, 387 Treatment. The cure of this affection depends on the use of uva ursi (sec Materia Medica) or balsam capi- vi, in the dose of from twenty to thirty drops, thrice a day; or tonic medicines, as bark, steel, or columbo, with the cold bath, and a nutritious diet. Besides which, an astringent injection, prepared by dissolving twenty or thirty grains of alum in half a pint of water, may be injected up the urethra, twice or thrice a day. If a stricture be the cause, the introduction of a bougie is the only remedy. SEMINAL WEAKNESS, Is another consequence of clap, when there has been frequent returns of it, and is known by an involuntary discharge of the semen. At the beginning of the dis- ease there is a great inclination to erections, and the emission of the semen is attended with pleasure; but gradually the penis becomes lame, the testicles hang lower than usual, and unless they are otherwise sus- pended, become almost a burden to the possessor. Although veterans in the wars of Venus, are most liable to be complimented with this kind of gleet, yet it may originate from other causes, as self-pollution, a sudden lift or strain, hot glysters, straining to stool, or the imprudent use of strong diuretics. Let the cause, however, be what it will, there is no drain which steals away the quintessence of life and strength more rapidly. Treatment. If the emission takes place on the slightest irritation, as heat, wine, &:c. and is attended with some degree of spasm, it is a sign the patient is in a very rampant state, and can hardly get him a wife too soon. But if it oozes away insensibly, cold bathing, and tonic medicines, as bark, steel, or balsam capivi in the usual doses, with a generous diet, are the best remedies. Costiveness should be carefully avoided. OBSTRUCTION OF URINE, Is another formidable symptom, which sometimes succeeds gonorrhoea. It is produced by certain changes 388 r enereal Disease. of the passage, from tumours seated high up in the urethra, or contraction of the urinary canal. Treatment. When this affection arises from tu- mours, a cure may be attempted, by the use of the mer- curial pills, (see Recipe 25,) night and morning, and a decoction of sarsaparilla, or mezereon; but it is often incurable. When spasmodic constriction of the passage is the cause, it will be removed by the warm bath or fomenta- tions. The penis may also be rubbed with camphora- ted oil, (see Recipe 65) or equal parts of aether and lau- danum. If this fail to take off the spasm, bleed, and give laudanum in large doses. POX, Is the venereal disease in its confirmed state, mani- fested by chancres, buboes, or warts about the genitals. To these succeed ulcers in the throat, nose and tongue, blotches on various parts of the body, with nocturnal pains, especially in the shin bones, and shoulders. The system is now filled wdth the horrid poison, which, unless mercifully arrested, will soon ulcerate the eyes, consume the nose, contract the body, and convert the loveliest form into such a mass of corruption, such a dunghill of stench, such a picture of ghastliness, as is sufficient to strike the guilty person with terror. A pallid youth, beneath a shade, A melancholy scene display'd; His mangled face, and loathsome stains, Proclaim'd the poison in his veins; He raised his eyes, he smote his breast. He wept aloud, and thus addressed: Forbear the harlofs false embrace^ Though lewdness wear an angeV s face: Be wise by my experience taught; I die^ alas! for want of thought,^'* Cotton. Venereal Disease* 389 ELEGY. Weep o'er the jniseries of a wretched maid, Who sacrific'd to man her health and fame; Whose love, and truth, and trust, were all repaid, By \^ant and woe, disease and endless shame. Curse not the poor lost wretch, who ev'ry ill That proud unfeeling man can heap, sustains; Sure she enough is curst, o'er whom his will Inflani'd by brutal passion, boundless reigns. - Spurn not my fainting body from your door, Here let me rest my weary weeping head; No greater mercy would my wants implore; My sorrows soon shall lay me with the dead. Who now beholds, but loaths my faded face, So wan and sallow, chang'd with sin and care? Or who can any former beauty trace, In eyes so sunk with famine and despair? That I was virtuous once, and beauteous too. And free from envious tongues my spotless fame: These but torment, these but my tears renew. These aggravate my present guilt and shame. Where were my virgin honours, virgin charms? Oh! whither fled the pride I once maintained? Or where the youths that woo'd me to their arms? Or where the triumphs, which my beauty gain'd? Ahl say, insidious Demon! Monster! where? What glory hast thou gain'd by my defeat? Behold the miseries I am doom'd to bear. Such as have brought me to my winding sheet.'* Treatment. Happily for mankind, the Governor of the world, is a father who pitieth his children,^^ and 390 Veyiereal Disease. afflicts them, not to kill, but to cure. In mercy he has appointed a medicine for this dreadful malady. A medi- cine, which, when taken in sufficient quantity, quickly flies to all parts of the system, attacks the disease at every post, drives it from gland to gland, and with a fi- delity and courage truly admirable, never gives it rest until it has completely expelled it from the body, and restored the patient to former health and vigour. This wonderful medicine is mercury, which requires only to be so managed as to obtain full possession of the sys- tem; not exceeding it by salivation, nor falling short of it by untimely purging. To hit this desirable point, let one of the mercurial pills (see Recipe 25), be given night and morning, until the system is fully charged with the medicine, which may be known by a slight soreness of the mouth and gums, and foetid breath. This fortunate state .of things, carefully supported a few weeks, will remove the disease. If the mercury affects the bowels, lessen the dose, or give it at longer intervals, or use the mercurial ointment; and if there is an increased secretion of the salivary glands, we should omit the mercury for a few days, and take a tea-spoonful of flour of sulphur, in a glass of milk or flaxseed tea, night and morning. In this way the disease may generally be cured in a short time. It will always be prudent, to continue the mercury in small doses for ten or twelve days after the total disappearance of all the symptoms. There are cases, however, where mercury will not answer; as in scrophulous habits, and when the blood is vitiated. In these, the nitric acid should be preferred, and from one to two drachms of it, diluted, (see Re- cipe 16,) may be taken in the day. This medicine seems especially adapted to cases where the habit of body is much debilitated, from the long continuance of the dis- ease, or where it has acquired great irritability from an incautious use of mercury. It is also a sovereign cure of spongy gums, eruptiorrs, ulcers, nocturnal pains, and all the train of consequences, usually attendant on this disease, when of long standing and imperfectly cured. Venereal Disease 391 In the treatment, therefore, of venereal patients, too much attention cannot be paid to mark the peculiarities of habit; and we should always remember, that, when unfavourable appearances supervene from the use of mercury, other medicines, as the nitric acid, or tar wa- ter, (see Recipe 3 6 & 32) or decoctions of prickly ash, mezereon, lobelia, sarsaparilla, shumach, or poke bounce. (See Materia Medica.) In this disease, there are certain symptoms which re- quire local treatment. Thus, a chancre, which is a small red pimple, terminating in ulcer, with hard edges, and generally situated on some part of the prepuce or the fore-skin of the penis, is best removed by the applica- tion of caustic; or, if recent, washing with spirits or brandy, or a solution of kali, (see Recipe 30,) and ap- plying dry lint to the sore, with cleanliness, will gene- rally prove sufficient. When a bubo supervenes, which is known by pain and swelling in the groin, every attempt should be made to disperse it by rubbing in mercurial ointment on the inside of the thigh or calf of the leg; and the applica- tion of cloths wTung out of lead water, or ice, if it can be procured, to the swelling, renewed, as often as they become warm. Besides which, the patient should be kept still, the bowels open, and the pain alleviated by the use of opi- ates at bed-time. When a tendency to suppuration is discovered, in- stead of the former plan, warm poultices of flaxseed, m.ilk and bread, or mush and fat, must be applied and renewed three or four times a day, until the tumour breaks. After which, one or two poultices may be con- tinued, to accelerate the discharge of matter, for a day or two, when the sore must be kept clean with soap- suds, and dressed night and morning with basilicon, spread on lint, until the matter is mostly discharged. — The sore should then be dressed with lint dipt in a so- lution of kali, (see Recipe 30) once or twice in twenty- four hours, as may be indicated by the discharge of mat- ter; and lastly, when there is no appearance of proud 392 Venereal Disease. flesh, it may be healed with Turner's cerate, or any healing ointment. Warts are a frequent aFection of the penis, and some- times remain after the venereal virus is expelled. In which case they may be removed by ligatures, or the application of caustic. Regimen. There is hardly any thing of more im- portance in the cure of this disease, than a proper regi- men. Inattention to this, not only procrastinates the cure, but often endangers the patient's life, in full ha- bits, the diet should always be light and cooling. Exer- cise should never be carried to excess, and the patient should wear flannel on using any preparation of mercu- ry. Cleanliness is of too much importance ever to be neglected. As soon as the disease makes its appearance, the infected part should be frequently washed in milk and water, or soap-suds; and if from a neglect of clean- liness, venereal ulcers appear, the sores must be well cleansed, and dressed with dry lint, night and morning. In obstinate cases the lint should be dipt in the solution of kali. When the patient is in delicate health, or much re- duced, a nourishing diet, with wine, bark, and other tQ^ nic medicines, are proper, with pure country air. Prevention. After a suspicious connection, it be- comes a prudent man to discharge his urine, as soon as possible, and wash well his polluted member, by draw- ing forward the fore-skin, and closing the end with his finger, that it may be distended, and retain for a few seconds the urine. The glans and penis should then be well washed with strong soap-suds or grog. | In women, besides cleansing the external parts, some portion of the wash should be injected up the vagina, by means of a female syringe. 393 SCURVY. Symptoms. An unusually weakened state of the bo- dy — pale and bloated countenance — the breathing af- fected on the slightest exertion — the gums soft, swollen, and inclined to bleed on being rubbed, and sometimes putrid ulcers are formed — the teeth become loose — the breath foetid — and the urine high coloured. The heart is subject to palpitation — the lower extremities to drop- sical swellings — the body to pains of a pleuritic or rheu- matic kind — besides which, blotches and ulcers break out in different parts of the skin, and often terminate in mortification. Causes. Cold moist air — vitiated or scanty diet — an indolent life, with luxurious indulgencies — corrupted water or provisions — and whatever may weaken the body, or vitiate the humours. Treatment. Raw and fresh vegetables of every description, particularly those of an acid kind; and fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges, sorrel, &c. (see Ala- term Medica,) furnish the most elfectual remedies. But as these are not at all times to be obtained, common vinegar, or nitrous vinegar, used freely, will completely answer the end. The nitrous vinegar is prepared b}^ dis- solving three or four ounces of nitre or saltpetre, in one quart of good vinegar; and of this solution, from one to two spoonfuls may be taken three or four times a day, according to th» advanced stage of the disease; and as frequendy some of it may be used in bathing the limbs, where they are either stiffened, swelled, blotched, or ulcerated. Soda water, or nitric acid (see Recipe 16,) will be found a useful auxiliary, vv^hen. the disease is inveterate. • The belly most freqyently will be kept^pen by this medicine, and when it is not, the exhibition of cream of tartar, or tamarinds, will be highly beneficial. When the gums arc enlarged, ulcerated and foetid, the mouth should be frequently washed with a decoction of bark, 3 D 394 Eruptions of the s/cin. in which a little alum is dissolved, and the gums rub- bed with a powder composed of equal parts of finely pulverized chiircoal and bark, and with which the scor- butic ulcers may be dressed morning and night. ThesCj ulcers may be known by their soft and spongy edges. I Regimen. So uncommonly salutary are vegetablel in this disease, that whenever they can be had fresh| they should, with ripe fruits and milk, constitute the chief part of diet for scorbutic patients. When these articles cannot be procured, a mild, nourishing diet, with w ine, cider and porter, is most proper. As nothing is of more importance to the scorbutic, than breathing pure fresh air, it should at all times be well supplied. Seamen, therefore, affected with it, ought constantly to keep on deck in fair weather. ERUPTIONS OF THE SKIN. There subsists so intimate a relation between the in- tei^al and external parts of our body, that no disorder scarcely takes place within, that does not show itself ul- timately on the surface. Diseases of the skin, are therefore very numerous, and as they most commonly arise from a constitutional cause, should be treated by general remedies. Local applications, particularly remedies, which are composed of mineral poisons, by repelling the vitiated humours to the brain, lungs or bowels, have often produced fatal consequences. Persons of relaxed habits, especially females, are sub- ject to an eruption, attended with nedness and soreness of the skin, forming large spots on the face and neck. This is certainly the mark of a constitutional debility and can only be removed by tonics, as the bark, bitters, so- lution of arsenic, nitric acid, he. and exercise. Atten- tion should also be paid to a frequent change of linen, and the skin occasionally dusted* with starch. Cutaneous eruptions oftentimes arise from a foulness of the stomach; in which case occasional vomiting and purging are fotmd to be highly useful. Eruptions of the skin. 395 There are eruptions in the face of persons of appa- rent health, called grog blossoms, which are the conse- fjaences of an inflamed liver, from a too frequent use of wine and spirits, and high living. An attempt to remove these pimples by external means would not only be fruitless, but highly danger- ous. Their cure can only be effected by gradually cor- recting he habit of intemperance, both in eating and drinking. The primary affection must be first relieved. This is to be done by taking every night from half a grain to one grain of opium, combined with two grains of calo- mel. After using this medicine for some time, or until the mouth is affected by salivation, the solution of arse- nic (see Recipe 21) in the usual dose, twice a-day, for a week or two, will complete the cure. Scaly affections of the skin, or clusters of small pim- pies over the body, usually occur in some habits, spring and fall, which will generally yield to sassafras tea, or cream of tartar and sulpur, in doses of a tea- spoonful, night and morning. Should this fail, the decoction of sarsaparilla, and one of the mercurial piils night and morning, for a week or two, and afterwards the solu- tion of arsenic, will always succeed. The prickly heat, is an eruption which is sometimes very troublesome; but commonly disappears on keeping moderately cool, and avoiding warm drinks. When this is not sufficient, and the itching is severe, the ca- tharcic mixture (see Recipe 11,) taken two or three times a week, and the external applications of elixir vi- triol, diluted in water, will prove a good remedy. The nettle rashy so called from its resemblance to eruptions made by the stinging of nettles, is sometimes attended with intolerable itching. When many of the eruptions run together, the part seems swelled, forming tumours, such as appear after being struck with the lash of a whip, and betwixt them, the skin is inflamed and very red. The elevations appear suddenly, but seldom ^continue long, and are apt to disappear from one part of the body and appear again in another. 396 Itch. The itching is the greatest inconvenience, as it some- times prevents the patient from sleeping, but the disease is not dangerous. With respect to the cure, observing a cooling regimen and a laxative state of the bowels, is generally sufficient; but if fever supervenes, it will be proper to bleed and give the antimonial solution (sec Recipe 6,) in small doses, to determine the fluids to the surface. When the disease is of a chronic nature, and often returns, twenty drops of elixir vitriol, taken thrice a-day, in a cup of camomile or centaury tea, or infusion of columbo, should be directed. To allay the itching, a solution of borax in vinegar, half an ounce of the Ibrmer to half a pint of the latter, affords a good wash. ITCH. The itch consists of small watery pimples of a con- tagious nature, which first appear between the fingers, aixl on the wrists; but in process of time spreading over the whole body, except the face; attended with a great degree of itchiness, especially after being heated by ex- ercise, or when warm in bed. In the cure of this disease, sulphur used internally and externally, is considered as a certain specific. A tea- spoonful of the flour of sulphur taken in milk or spirit and water, thrice a day, and some of it rubbed on the inside of the arms and legs at bed time, either dry, or in the form of unction, will soon effect a cure. Where the sulphur is disliked, the mercurial ointment may be rubbed in every night, about the size of a nutmeg, until the eruption entirely disappears. The itch lotion (see Recipe 43) Vv'ill also be found an effectual remedy in this complaint, by washing the parts affected with it two or three times a day. The internal exhibition of sulphur alone, or combined with cream of tartar, should always precede or accompany the external applications. Dock root, tobacco, and Virginia snake root, (see Materia Medica) have sometimes cured when the above reme- dies failed. Tetter y or Ring- Worm — Tinea, or Scald Head, 397 TETTER, OR RING- WORM, Is an eruption that attacks various parts of the skin, in a circle, with an inflamed basis, which gradually spreads, forming an extensive excoriation, sometimes moibt, at other times dry; and is attended with smarting and itching, succeeded by scurfy scales. Treatment. If the habit of body be not faulty, ex- ternal applications alone, are often sufficient to remove this affection. The saturated solution of borax, with vinegar or le- mon juice, one drachm to two ounces, is an excellent remedy , without producing the least pain on its applica- tion. The itch lotion, when prepared with double its strength, is also equally good. Covering the eruption daily with ink, or the juice of black walnut, (see Mate- ria Medica,) has often effected a cure. Where the disease is inveterate, internal medicines must be exhibited and continued for some time; buc4i as limewater, flour of sulphur, the mercurial pills, or which is preferable to all of them in obstinate cases, the solution of arsenic. (See Recipe 27.) TINEA, OR SCALD HEAD. Symptoms. This disease consists of little ulcers at the roots of the hair, which discharge a humour that dries into a white scab, or thick scales, and has an offen- sive smell. It is not only a very troublesom.e complaint, but contagious, and when united with a scrofulous con- stitution, found extremely difficult to be cured. Treatment. When it is merely a complaint of the skin, it may be successfully treated with topical a[ plica- tions. In the beginning of the affection, washii 14 the sores well night and morning with strong soap-suds, or a decoction of tobacco, or by applying an oint vient, made with jimson-we( d, or pride of China, (see Mate- ria Medicuj) will frequently effect a cure. But if the dis- 398 Scrofula, or King's Evil. order prove obstinate, the head ough;: to be shaved, an after being well washed with soap-suds, covered with tar and suet, spread on a bladder. My very ingenious friend Doctor Chapman, has assured me, when every other application failed in removing this disease, he al- ways succeeded, by having the affected parts washed with this lotion* twice a-day. But in cases where topical applications are resisted, medicine should be given internally, as limewater, flour of sulphur, or calomel, according to circumstances; and to hasten the cure, the course of the fluids may, in the mean time, be in part diverted from the head, by blis- ters or sinapisms. SCROFULA, OR KING'S EVIL. This disease is most frequent among the children of the poor, and negroes, who are ill fed, ill lodged and ill clothed; it is also hereditary, but never contagious. It most commonly occurs in children from the third, to the seventh year; frequently, however, it discovers itself at a later period in habits peculiarly disposed to it. Symptoms. It is known by indolent hard tumors of the lymphatic glands, particularly those of the neck, be- hind the ears, or under the chin. The upper lip, and division of the nostrils arc swelled, with a smooth skin, and hard belly. In the progress of the disease, these tumors degenerate into ulcers of bad digestion; the dis- charge of which consists of a white curdled matter, re- sembling somewhat the coagulum of milk; and pre- vious to their breaking, they acquire a sort of purple redness, and a softness to the touch. Treatment. As soon as these tumors are first dis- covered, endeavour to disperse them by sea bathing, or bathing in salt and water, one pound to three gallons of * Take liver of sulphur, three drachms — Spanish soap, one drachm — lime water, eight ounces— rectified spirits of wine, two drachms, mix. Jaundice. 399 water, or cold water alone, or by frequent application of lead water. Warm fomentations and poultices of every kind, do harm, as they seem only to hurry on a sup- puration, which, if possible, should be prevented. — A large draught of sea water every morning will be found a useful drink. Peruvian bark and steel used alternately every two weeks, will be of infinite service by giving tone to the system. The remedy, however, most to be depended upon in this disease, is the muriat of lime, given in doses of ten to eighty drops, gradually in- creased, three or four times a day, diluted with water or tea. When a suppuration takes place, the solution of arsenic should be given twice or thrice a day. The best application lo scrofulous ulcers, is a powder com- posed of one pound of finely powdered bark, and one ounce of white lead in fine powder, mixed well together; or a fine powder of calamine-stone alone, and the ulcers covered with it daily, keeping it on by brown paper and a bandage. Where these are not to be obtained, the constant application of linen rags moistened with a so- lution of one ounce of sugar of lead, in a pint of water, may answer every purpose. With respect to the diet, it should be nourishing and easily digestible, avoiding all viscid food. Moderate ex- ercise in a dry warm air is exceedingly beneficial. JAUNDICE. Symptoms. Yellow^ness of the skin, but chiefly of the eyes, the urine also yellow — inactivity — anxiety and uneasiness at the pit of the stomach — itchiness of the skin. Causes. Whatever obstructs the passage of the bile, through its natural channel. Treatment. The indications of cure are, to re- move the obstruction:^, which, as it originates from dif- j ferent causes, will require different modes of treatment. As vicid bile is the most common cause of this com- plaint, in full habits, and where there are any feverish 400 TFhite Swelling. symptoms, begin the cure with bleeding, afterwards give an emetic, and then a day after a dose of calomel and jalap, which should be often repeated if necessary. — Common soap in large quantities has been exhibited with much success in this case, but as this is disagreea- ble to take, the salt of tartar, which has the same ad- vantage, or soda, may be taken in doses of twenty or thirty grains, three or four times a day, dissolved in the infusion of col umbo. If there be any acute pain in the region of the liver, with a quickness of the pulse, bleed more freely, give one of the mercurial pills, (see Recipe 25,) night and morning, until a ptyalism is produced, use the warm bath, and apply a blister over the pained part. In cases of much pain, three or four table-spoonfuls of olive oil should be swallowed, and if it do not succeed in quiet- ing the pain, one or two tea- spoonfuls of aether, or thir- ty drops of laudanum must be given. The warm bath, or bags of hot salt applied to the right side, are like- wise beneficial. After the obstruction is removed, the tonic powders or pills, (see Recipe 4 & 23,) or dog- wood, or cherry-tree bark, (see Materia Medica^) are necessary to restore the tone of the system. Regimen. The diet ought to be regulated according to the constitution of the patient. In plethoric or fever- ish habits, the diet should be low, and in cases of ex- cessive debility it should be of the most nourishing kind. Vegetables, by creating flatulency and acidity, are to be avoided. Mucilaginous drinks are peculiarly pro- per; and in many instances, sucking a new laid egg every morning, on an empty stomach, has succeeded in curing this disease, when all other means failed. WHITE SWELLING, Is distinguished by an acute pain, without any exter- nal inflammation, of a joint, attended with a gradual in- crease of its size. Though all the joints are occasion- ally subject to it, yet its most usual seat is in the knee. White swellings are generally of a scrofulous nature, Wiite Swelling. 401 but sometimes they are produced by rheumatic affec- tions, and sometimes follow strains that have been ne- glected, or badly treated. Treatment. As soon as an affection of this kind I is discovered, the patient should remain in bed, and the ' limb kept perfectly at rest; without which, remedies . cannot produce any good effect. I The great object, is to prevent the formation of mat- ter, by the immediate application of leeches, or scarifi- ! cations to the part affected, and by which, eight or ten i ounces of blood may be taken away, every other day, or oftener, according to circumstances. The whole joint should then be kept continually wet and cold with the so- lution of crude sal ammoniac, (see Recipe 28) by means of four or five folds of old linen. After the local affec- tion is somewhat abated, frictions with the volatile lini- ment, or a mixture of soft soap and spirits of camphor, to which may be added some tincture of cantharides, will have a good effect. With one or other of these li- i niments, the joint is to be rubbed well twice a day, and afterwards covered with a piece of flannel that has been soaked in the same. If this should not produce good effects, the part must be rubbed night and morning with mercurial ointment, in the quantity of two drachms at a time, and continued until the mouth is gently affected. — The cure may then be completed by small blisters on each side of the joint, which should be kept running for j a length of time. ' If the disease in spite of these remedies continue to ■ advance, emollient poultices must be applied often, un- til various abscesses appear, and these should be opened as soon as they seem to point, and afterwards to be treated as ulcers. ' In cases where the white swelling is evidently scrofu- lous, tonic medicines, as bark, steel, &:c. and a nourish- ing diet, to correct the constitutional affection, with sti- mulating applications to the joint, form the best reme- dies. 3 E 402 Sea- Sickness. — Intoxication. SEA-SICKNESS. Symptoms. A most unplcasiint giddiness, with great nausea and vomiting, occasioned by the motion of the vessel. The duration of this complaint is very uncertain. Generally it lasts but a day or two, but in some cases it will continue the whole voyage. Treatment. Though time, perhaps, is the only cure, yet it will be greatly alleviated by keeping the bowels open. A tea- spoonful of aether in a glass of wa- ter, relieves the convulsive affection of the stomach. — High-seasoned food and acidulated drinks are peculiar- 1)^ proper. But nothing will be found more serviceable than exercise, cheerfulness, and fresh air. Persons should, therefore, never go below; but romp on the decks, cut capers in the shrouds, and divert their minds and move their bodies, as much as possible. INTOXICATION. Symptoms. Like every other kind of phrenzy, it comes on with a burning redness of the cheeks — a swell- ing of the jugular veins — and a fiery wildness of the eyes. The tongue is considerably affected, but very differently in different stages of the disease. At first, only glib and voluble — then loud, and louder still — at length noisy and excessively disagreeable. The patient now is quite on his top-ropes, and nothing goes down with him, but the most ranting songs, roaring laughs, ripping oaths, and bluntest contradictions, accompanied with loud thump- ing of the fist on the table, especially if politics be the topic of conversation. There is no complaint that affects patients so differently — some it makes so ridiculously loving, as to hug and kiss one another — others it kin- dles into such rage and fury, that they will frequently throw the bottles and glasses at the heads of their best friends. And indeed, so wonderful is its influence, that it is no uncommon thing with it, to inspire cowards with courage, to teach truth to liars — and to make per- Intoxication. 403 sons naturally reserved, loquacious and even boister- ous. The memory now partakes of the general infirmity, being hardly able to connect the parts of a story begun. The tongue at length, as if about to lose its powers, be- gins to trip — then to stammer — and at last the utterance dies away generally in some idle half-finished threat or oath. Hiccups now ensue, with a silly grin of the mouth, which continues half open, from the falling of the lower jaw. The face puts on an air of great stupidity — the eyes turn heavy and sleepy, and the patient begins to nod, with his head btnding forward; until, becoming too heavy, he sinks under the table, and not unfrequent- ly, after a filthy vomiting, falls asleep among the dogs and cats. Treatment. In a fit of drunkenness, the patient should instantly be placed in an airy situation, the head and shoulders kept erect, and the neck -cloth and collar of the shirt unbound, and copiously bled, if his situation seems alarming. The next step is to provoke vomit- ing, by the most expeditious means, such as tickling the throat with a feather or the finger. Cold applica- tions to the head, as cloths wrung out of cold water, or vinegar and water, often renewed, will have the happi- est effect: so will plunging the body into cold water; for many instances have occurred of persons having fall- en overboard in a drunken fit, and having been picked up sober. Therefore, it will be found an admirable mode of so- bering those vagabonds who, as a nuisance, infest the streets of every city, to take them to the nearest pump, and there deluge them with cold water. This will not only bring them to their senses, but send them off, un- der that sense of shame, which ever follows the commis- sion of a crime so truly ignominious. 404 TO RECOVER PERSONS APPARENTLY DROWNED. As soon as the body is taken out of the water, it should instantly be rubbed dry, and wrapped in warm blankets; unless the cooling process should be first ne- cessary, in consequence of the patient being in a half frozen state. For, in that case, the body ought to be rubbed with snow, or flannels wrung out of cold water' or vinegar, before any degree of artificial warmth is ap- plied. After which the patient is to be placed on a bed or mattress, with the head elevated, and air is then in- stantly to be blown into the lungs, by inserting the pipe of a pair of bellows into one nostril, or for want of that ar- tide, a tobacco pipe, a quill, or even a card folded in the form of a tube; while the mouth and opposite nos- tril are closed by an assistant, or covered with some wet paper. By thus forcing air into the lungs, and alternate- ly expelling it, by pressing the chest, respiration may happily be restored. Volatile salts, or vinegar, should also frequently be applied to the nostrils. Next the intestines are to be stimulated by injections of warm spirits and water, or mulled wine. It will be more effectual still, if some warm spirits and water be introduced immediately into the stomach, by means of a syringe and a long flexible tube. While using the in- ternal stimulants, a bladder of warm water should be applied to the region of the stomach, and the legs and arms briskly rubbed with a warm hand, or with flannel, extending the friction gradually to the thighs, belly, and chest. At that critical period, when sneezing, slight twitch- ings or gasping, mark the first dawn of returning life, it will be prudent to moderate the stimulating powers. When respiration and the power of swallowing are re- stored, the patient should be kept moderately warm, and gentle perspiration encouraged by warm drinks. To Recover Persons apparently Dead. 405 Should feverish symptoms ensue, moderate bleeding, together with mild laxatives and cooling regimen, will complete the cure. TO RECOVER PERSONS APPARENTLY KILLED BY LIGHTNING OR NOXIOUS VAPOURS. Treatment. Instantly throw cold water, with some force, in large quantities on the face and head, which should be often repeated for some time, and if conveni- ent the whole body may be plunged into cold water, and afterwards wiped dry, and warmth gradually appli- ed. If the body and extremities feel cold, instead of ' the application of cold water, the warm bath about the temperature of the blood, should be prepared as soon as possible, and the patient immersed in it for twenty or thirty minutes, using frictions at the same time with the hand. As soon as the patient is taken out of the bath, his skin must be wiped dry, and wrapped up in warm flannel, and gentle stimulants employed to pro- duce a reaction. When by these means the circulation of the blood is increased, and the extremities become warm, bleeding will be proper, and must be often repeated, if the pa- tient have fever, or complain of pain. Besides which, evacuations must be procured by purgative medicines and glysters, and the antiphlogistic plan in every res- pect strictly pursued, until the febrile symptoms abate. After which tonic medicines with wine, in case of debi- lity, are of infinite service. POISONS. Treatment. The cure of poisons swallowed, whe- ther vegetable or mineral, requires either an immediate evacuation, or a counteraction of their effects. — There- fore, as soon as possible, throw in an emetic, quick in . its operation, as blue or white vitriol in a dose, from ten 406 Poisons* — Musquito Bites, to thirty grains, repeated in fifteen minutes, if necessa- ry, and assisted by copious draughts of warm water. To remove the stupefaction, which generally ensues after an imprudent dose of opium, acids of the Vegeta- ble class, as lime juice, or vinegar diluted with water, . ought to be exhibited freely. But if the patient lay in a deadly stupor, with cold extremities, the warm stimu- lating plan must first be adopted. Sinapisms or blisters ought instantly to be applied to the extremities; or as a more effectual remedy to produce reaction in the sys- tem, the legs and arms should be whipped well with rods, and the soles of the feet seared with red hot iron. When mineral poisons are taken, if a vomiting does not follow, attempt the expulsion by a quick emetic as above described, and let it be worked off with warm , water, adding to each draught, twenty or thirty grains of salt of tartar; which medicine should be continued until the cure is completed. The exhibition of sweet oil, milk, and mucilaginous drinks, in large quantities, do good by obtunding the acrimony of the poison, and must not be omitted. The same method should be pur- sued, whether arsenic, corrosive sublimate,* sugar of lead, tartar emetic, or any metallic salt has been taken; and unless the remedies are quickly resorted to, death inevitably will take place. If in consequence of the effects of poison, fever super- vene, the antiphlogistic treatment as recommended in inflammatory complaints, must be pursued. BITES OF MUSQUITOES. Musquito bites often degenerate into painful acrid ulcers, particularly on the legs, in consequence of scratching them. It is therefore proper, where these in- sects are troublesome, to wear loose linen buskins to * It has recently been discovered by an eminent Spanish phy- sician, that the whites of eggs diluted with water, is an antidote against corrosive sublimate; and that common lump sugar is an antidote against verdigrise. Bites of V enomous Animals. 407 guard the legs in the evening; and when this has been neglected, apply oil, vinegar, lime juice, or camphora- ted spirits to the part, to allay the itching and tingling occasioned by their bites. BITES OF VENOMOUS ANIMALS. Treatment. The bites of all venomous animals are cured by the same means, which are very simple, if the remedies were always at hand. The caustic volatile alkali, or eau de luce, is a certain antidote against the bites or stings of the most venomous serpents or spi- ders. Lint wetted with either of these should instantly be applied to the injured part, and renewed as it be- comes dry. A tea-spoonful of the same medicine must also be given to the patient in a little water, every hour or oftener, as may be indicated by the symptoms. Lunar caustic possesses the same admirable virtue, and should always be employed, when the other medi- cines are not at hand. The best mode of using it, is to dissolve five or six grains of the caustic in two or three ounces of water, and keep the affected parts moistened with it, as above directed. Some of the same ought al- so to be given internally, only in a more diluted state* When these remedies cannot be procured, a cataplasm made of quick Hme and soap, should be applied to the bitten part, and as much cayenne, or red pepper, mix- ed in spirits, sw^allowTd every hour or two, as the sto- mach can possibly bear. The juice of plantain and hore-hound, in doses of a table-spoonful every hour or two, is considered a good remedy against the bites of veromous serpents, as is also squirrel ear. (See Materia Medica.) As soon as a person is bitten by a poisonous animal, a tight ligature should be made above the injured part, until suitable remedies can be employed. When the toe or finger is bitten, cutting it off" immediately will prevent mischief from the poison.' It is also a fact that suckinf; the wound immediately after being bitten, will arrest the progress of the poison. 408 Hydrophobia. This was lately verified in the neighbourhood of Au- gusta, in the case of a youth who was bitten by a rattle snake, and the wound being instantly sucked by a man present, prevented its mischievous eft'ects; nor did any injury result to the operator. When this remedy is resorted to, it may be prudent for the operator to guard his mouth with sweet oil or milk, and not swallow the saliva. It should never be attempted by a person with a sore mouth or very bad teeth. HYDROPHOBIA; OR, THE BITE OF A MAD. DOG. This disease is so dreadfully alarming at all times, that we ought, as the best means of security, to endea- vour to prevent it. Therefore, as the infection of a rabid animal is con- veyed by his teeth into the wound, the sooner it is re- moved, the less chance is there for absorption. Conse- quently, the bitten part should immediately be washed, and where it can, be cut out, or burnt with a hot iron, deeper and more extensive, than the wound itself. Af- ter which, the wound should be filled with mercurial ointment, and kept open for some time. In addition to this treatment we should diligently em- ploy mercury, both internally and externally, to exite a salivation. When the disease is once begun, large bleedings with purgative medicines, must be resorted to, and frequent- ly repeated. Sweet oil has been highly recommended for this malady, in very large quantities. Opium, in such doses as are given in tetany, has also been said to produce beneficial effects. It is probable, the caustic volatile alkali, might prove an antidote against the poison of a rabid animal, as that of the most venomous serpents. Chick-weed and emetic- weed, (s^e Materia Medica,) is considered by some, a remedy in this dreadful dis^ ease. Guinea Worm. — Sxvallowing of Pins, 409 GUINEA WORM. Tliis disease is frequent among the new negroes, and is pretty uniform in its appearance. The patient is at first sensible of an itching; and, on examining the part, a small blister is generally to be perceived. Frequently two or three of these blisters manifest themselves; and at times the part has the ap- pearance of being stung with nettles. Beneath these blis- ters, or other affections, on raising the skin, there ap- pears a small piece of mucus, on removing which, the head of a worm is to be seen. It is generally firmly fixed, and .requires force to detach it from the parts be- neath. When once separated with the forceps, it can be twisted round a ligature, or a piece of lint, and by this means a portion of it, a foot or two in length, may be extracted in the course of one day. In its appearance, it resembles what is called bobbin, or small tape, and is of the same size. It is transparent and moist, and appears to contain something like a white liquid. As much of it as will come away without pull- ing, is daily to be extracted. It is always dangerous to use force, on account of the risk of breaking the worm. When this accident happens, it occasions the most acute pain, accompanied with swelling and inflammation of the neighbouring parts; and these symptoms will often continue for two or three weeks. In this case the worm also takes a different course, and soon throws itself into another part. SWALLOWING OF PINS. Pins and other hard and sharp pointed substances, sometimes pass into the gullet, and even into the sto- mach. It is too prevalent a practice, when any substance of this kind has passed into the stomach, to endeavour to hasten its passage through the bowels, by giving some opening medicine, 3 F 410 Chilblains* Milk alone, or mixed with raw eggs, should be im- mediately takrii, as by the coagulation which takes place, the substance may become so involved, as to pre- vent its doing injury to the stomach; and on the same principle should opening medicines, which render the feces thin, be avoided; as by allowing the faeces to ob- tain some firmness, there will be the greater probability of the pointed parts of the substance being so sheathed, as to prevent their injuring the intestines. It is but rare, however, that any serious injury is done to the stomach by the point of the pin. CHILBLAINS. Symptoms. Are inflammatory swellings, chiefly af- fecting the heels, feet, and toes, and sometimes the arms and hands, attended with great pain and degree of itch- ing. Causes. This disease is owing to a weaker action of the small vessels, most remote from the heart, occa- sioned by cold or dampness, and occurs most frequent- ly among children and people of delicate constitutions. Treatment. Where the parts are frost bitten by long exposure to the cold, they should be plunged into the coldest water, and afterwards rubbed with salt. — When they arc only benumbed, they may be rubbed with strong brine, or spirit of camphor, or opodeldoc, (see Recipe 62 & 63,) to which a little laudanum may be added, if the pain or itching be very troublesome; but when they crack and discharge an acrid matter, poultices should be applied, but not for any length of time, as their continuance is apt to produce fungous excrescences. The application of diachylon plaster to the part, if the exciting cause be avoided, will after- wards eff*ect a cure. 411 SCALDS AND BURNS. The leading indication in affections of this kind, is to abate the pain; and this is effected by whatever induces i insensibility of the part; as plunging it suddenly into cold water, covering it with ice or snow, or applying soft soap, brandy, laudanum, aether, or spirits of tur- pentine. Of these remedies, spirits of turpentine deserve the preference, especially where the skin is detached. A liniment prepared of basilicon ointment and spirits of turpentine, and applied twice a day to burns, when there is a loss of substance, alleviates the pain like a charm, and brings the sore to suppuration in a few days, which may afterwards be healed, by a liniment composed of equal parts of linseed oil and lime-water, or by the application of the simple saturnine ointment, or Turner's cerate, (see Recipe 67, 68 & 71,) or what is preferable, an ointment made with the thorn apple. (See Materia Medica.) The application of cotton to a burn or scald, admirably alleviates the pain. Blisters, which occur from burns, should be opened as soon as the irritation induced has subsided; and in order to prevent any bad effects from the admission of air, small punctures ought to be made in preference to incisions. The constitutional treatment of burns must be regu- lated by the degree of inflammation and pain. When the former is considerable, and affects the system at large, bleeding, mild laxatives, and other remedies suited to inflammation in general, become necessary; and in the latter, where the pain is violent, laudanum ought to be given in pretty large doses. When the patient is of i debilitated habit, wine and bark, will be of infinite service; and when the sores do not heal kindly, astringent washes are necessary, as re- commended for indolent ulcers. 412 HERNLE, OR RUPTURES. The term rupture was adopted when it was supposed that the disease was always the consequence of a rup- ture of some of the parts, which form the cavity of the abdomen or belly. But anatomical examination has shown, that this disease, as it most commonly appears, takes place in consequence of the protrusion of some of the contents of the abdomen, through openings, which are natural to the human body, and without any violent separation of the parts. It w^ill not be necessary to de- scrilje particularly, the several kinds of ruptures which may occur. It will be sufficient to observe, that rup- tures will generally appear in the groin, in the upper and fore part of the thigh, and at the navel. Those which appear, at first, just above the groin, will, in general, if neglected, soon descend into the scrotum, in men, and into the labia pudendi^ of women. The tumour, in this disease, is most commonly formed by a part of the intestinal canal, or of the omentum or caul, or of both. In those ruptures which are capable of easy redaction, as soon as a pressure is properly made, the protruded intestine generally slips up, all at once, with a kind of guggling noise, and the tumour immediately subsides; where the tumour has chiefly been formed by omentum^ that passes up more slowly, and without that particular noise which accompanies the return of the intestine. In those cases of rupture, where stricture has taken place on the protruded parts, and the reduction is there- by rendered difficult, the belly becomes tense and pain- ful, the pain of the belly, as well as of the tumour itself, being much increased on the least exertion; a total stoppage of discharge by stool takes place, and the pa- tient is distressed by a sickness at the stomach, which increases, until there is almost constant retching and vomiting. To prevent these evils, it is only necessary, that such Hernia^ or Ruptures. 413 a pressure be kept on the opening, through which the part protruded, as may prevent its again falling out: the pressure of the fingers shows how effectually this may be done, and if, at the time this pressure is made, the pa- tient but gently coughs, he will discover how forcibly the protruding parts are driven outwards, and how necessa- ry it is to guard against their future propulsion. The ingenuity of artists has devised a mode, by spring trus- ses, of applying a constant and properly adapted pres- sure, requiring little or no exertion, or even attention, of the patient himself. No person, therefore, in the situa- lion just described, should suffer a day to pass, more than is absolutely unavoidable, without obtaining the comfort and security which will follow the application of a truss; since, if it be adopted at the first appearance of the disease, not only will the malady be stopt in its progress; but, if employed with constancy and steadi- ness, a radical cure may be gained. If it be discovered that the return of the rupture is be- come difficult, and that a stricture on the protruded part has perhaps taken place, the person should place him- self on his back, inclining to the side opposite to that diseased, with the head low, and the breech raised high, the knees being drawn upwards, and a little outwards. Whilst lying in this posture, he should endeavour, by such pressure as he has been accustomed to employ for its reduction, to return the protruded part. Should he not succeed in this attempt, he may lay on the part a piece of folded linen, dipped in cold water, and repeat his attempts. If these be also unsuccessful, he may then be assured that a stricture has taken place, and as his life depends on its speedy removal, no time should be lost, in obtaining the best surgical assistance that can be had. The umbilical hernia^ or rupture of the navel, is most common to childhood, and is easily cured if early attend- ed to. The means to be adopted are simply these — the pro- truded parts are to be returned, which may be easily done by slight pressure with the finger; and retained in 414 Falling of the Fundament. their proper situation, by a conical piece of very soft sponge, thoroughly cleared, by rubbing between the thumb and finger, of sand and minute shells, which may be lodged in its cavities. This being kept to the part, by the point of one finger, is to be secured by se- veral slips of strongly adhesive plaster, three inches in length, crossing each other in a stellated form. PROLAPSUS ANI, OR FALLING OF THE FUNDAMENT. It is occasioned by weakness of the part, which is aggravated by costiveness, hemorrhoidal swellings, di- arrhoeas, and particularly a tenesmus. Treatment. The cure is to be effected by reduc- tion of the part as soon as possible, and retaining it in its natural position, by a compress, secured with a ban- dage. To effect its reduction, the patient should be laid on his face in bed, with his buttocks raised above the rest of his body, and while supporting the tumour with the palm of one hand, the part of the gut least protrud- ed is to be first introduced with the fore-finger of the other. As soon as the bowels are returned, the bandage is to be applied. When the protruded parts become in- flamed, from being exposed to the air, before a reduc- tion be attempted the inflammation is to be alleviated by blood-letting, and fomenting the part with a warm de- coction of mullein. Persons who are subject to falling of the fundament, would do well to wash the part, immediately after eva- cuation, with a strong decoction of oak bark. Such remedies as tend to recover the tone of the parts most readily, are to be used, as cold bathing par- tially applied, and injections of the decoction of bark, with the addition of a little laudanum, or starch, if there be an acrid discharge. With the same view, tonic me- dicines, as steel, columbo or bark, should be taken thrice a day. Persons subject to this disease ought to use such diet as produces but little excrements, and IFarts and Corns, — TFhitloxv. 415 those of a soft consistence. Rye mush and molasses, used exclusively as a diet for a few weeks, has been found to produce a perfect cure. WARTS AND CORNS. When warts are attended with inconvenience, they may be removed cither by ligature or caustic, accor- ding to the extent of their base. The caustics common- ly used for this purpose are crude sal ammoniac, blue vitriol, lunar caustic, or tincture of steel, applied every day. As corns are formed entirely from pressure, we must carefully avoid the occasional cause, by wearing wide shoes; and for their removal, they should be bathed for some time in warm water, and then pared off as much as possible, without giving pain; after which apply over them a wafer or diachylon plaster, to defend them from the cold air. Another method is to allow them to grow to some length, through a piece of perforated leather properly secured by plaster, or any other means, and afterwards to pick them out, or to cut round their root, by which they may for the most part be easily turned out. WHITLOW, Is an inflamatory swelling of the fingers, confined generally to the last joint, particularly under the nail, attended with a sense of most burning heat. Causes. It is often induced by external violence, as the puncture of a pin, or contusion of the nail; but it most frequently takes place without any obvious cause. Treatment. The moment that a sense of any pre- ternatural heat, or pain is felt, in order to effect reso- lution, apply a blister, or let the finger be bathed, seve- ral times a day, in a mixture composed of four ounces 416 Tumours^ or Boils. of spirits of camphor, half an ounce of laudanum, and two drachms of extract of lead. When those articles are not at hand, holding the hand in brandy, or sharp vinegar, or very hot water often repeated, and conti- nued for some time, will likewise prevent suppuration. According to my honourable and worthy friend, John Taliaferro, Esq. of Virginia, the application of a piaster composed of lime and soft soap is a sovereign remedy. Should, however, these means fail to produce reso- lution, the best method is to make an early opening down to the bone, which will occasion the patient much less pain, than allowing the matter gradually to make its own way to the surface; which likewise, from the length of time required, is attended with more mischief to the parts. The wound is then to be brought to sup- puration by emollient poultices, and afterwards treated as an ulcer. TUMOURS, OR BOILS. Every tumour terminates inoneof the following ways. By an absorption of the substance into the circulation; by a conversion into pus^ or degeneration into scirrhus or cancer. There are two plans for the treatment of tumours. Either by resolution or maturation. In the first, there is a dispersion of the swelling; and in the second, it is brought to maturity, and of course, a discharge takes place by spontaneous rupture, or by incision. Treatment. In the treatment of tumours, we must be regulated by the nature and condition of them. If, for example, they should appear on any part of the body, with only a slight degree of pain, tension, and inflammation, and no preceding indisposition, that may induce us to believe it to be the eftbrt of nature, to get rid of some noxious matter; we should then endeavour to disperse the inflammation by strictly observing a cool- ing regimen, by bleeding, by mild cathartics, and by topical remedies, as cloths rung out of lead water, or saturnine poultices, (see Recipe 68 J often renewed. Scirrhus, or Ca?icer. 417 But when they arise from bad habits of body, their suppuration in all cases should be promoted as soon as possible, by warm emollient poultices, as milk and bread, flaxseed, or mush and fat, renewed every three or four hours. When the suppuration is complete, if the matter do not make its own way^ the tumour is to be opened with a lancet or caustic, and after applying one or two poul- tices, it should be dressed with basilicon (see Recipe 70) spread very thin on lint, night and morning, until it ceases to discharge: after which, with Turner's cerate, or some healing ointment. If fungous or proud flesh appear, it must be destroyed by sprinkling red precipi- tate, burnt alum, or rhubarb over it, or touch the pro* tuberant part with blue vitriol or caustic. Attention must also be paid to the general state of the system, since if that particular state on which the tu- mors depend, is not changed, the patient may be ha- rassed a considerable time, by their recurrence. Hence, in debilitated constitutions, the tonic and strengthening remedies, such as bark, sea bathing, &:c. should be employed, and in robust and gross habits, sulphur and cream of tartar, ought to be taken in doses of a tea- spoonful thrice a day. A tumour on the gums is to be brought to suppura- tion by applying roasted figs internally to the part, as warm as can be borne; and afterwards the mouth is to be frequently washed, either with the astringent or de- tergent gargle, (see Recipe 41 8c 42.) But when it ari- ses from a carious tooth, a removal of it becomes neces- sary, in order to eflfect a cure. SCIRHHUS, OR CANCER. A cancer is a spreading sore preceded by a hard or scirrhous swelling of the part, attended with pain, and, for the most part, a thin foetid discharge. Any part of the body may be the seat of this disorder, though it is mostly confined to the glands. A scirrhus in the breast commences with a small 3 Q 418 Scirrhus or Cancer. hard and moveable kernel like a pea, without discolora- tion and without pain. This generally increases in size and in hardness. The neighbouring parts become affec- ted with a sense of pain and uncommon heat, as if touched with fire, or j)ierced with sharp needles. In- flammation now succeeds, which ending in an ulcer or open sore, the cancerous state begins. When the sur- face of the skin is attacked by cancer, it generally be- gins \w\x\i a small excrescence of the w^atery kind, which becomes a cancerous ulcer, on suffering even the slightest irritation. Treatment. If the unfortunate subject of this malady is a young subject, and of a good constitution, and the complaint in its worst state; the best advice to be given is to apply to some experienced surgeon, and have the part extirpated immediately. When extirpa- tion cannot be accomplished, every attempt should be made to stop the progress of the complaint, by general and topical blood-letting, by a cooling diet, consisting principally of milk and vegetables, and to keep the bowels open by the occasional use of mild cathartics. In the incipient scirrhous state, wearing a hare or rabbit skin over the part affected is extremely useful, and when this cannot be procured a mercurial plaster will be found serviceable. Lead w^ater in this state has like- wise been employed with some success, by arresting the progress of the complaint. Every thing that tends to irritate, such as rubbing, picking, or handling the affected part, should be avoided. Tht clothing should be so regulated as not to press too hard on the tumour, nor to keep it disagreeably warm, nor leave it painfully cold. When the cancer becomes ulcerated, various have been the applications, but those which give the least pain arc the most eligible. The narrow leaied dock-root has proved an effectual cure of this malady, in many instances. The manner of applying it, is by boiling the root till it is quite soft, then bathe the part affected with the decoction three times a day as hot as can be borne, using the root in form of poultice. Conunon Ulcers, 419 Another remedy for this disease, is the sokition of arsenic. It is to be taken inwardly thrice a day in its usual doses (see Recipe 22) and to be applied exter- nally in a diluted state. A drachm of the solution is first to be diluted with a quart of rain water, and made gradually stronger, till it be double of that strength. This mixture may be either applied on lint, or made into a poultice with the crumb of bread. The solution of kali on lint, has also been employed with some success in cancerous ulcers; beginning with it weak, and gradually increasing its strength. The charcoal powder (see Recipe 5) is an excellent application to cancerous sores, particularly when they have an offensive smell. It may be daily applied in pow- der on lint; carefully observing not to expose the ulcer to the air, on changing the dressing. Carrots (see Ma- teria Medica) are also a good application to foetid ulcers. COMMON ULCERS. No disease occurs more frequently among the poor and negroes, than ulcers of the legs; for this obvious rea- son, they are more exposed to accidents, and when they meet with a wound or contusion in the leg, the injured part inflames, and becomes an ulcer for want of proper care. Women with obstructed menses are also subject to this disorder. . Ulcers receive various appellations, and require dif- ferent modes of treatment, according to their appear- ances, or the causes, and peculiarities of the constitution of the patient. Where the disease is local, topical reme- dies only are necessary; but, when it is connected with any disorder of the constitution, medicines that affect the whole system, are absolutely necessary. W^hen ulcers appear to have had any effect, either in carrying off, or preventing disorders to which the constitution may have been liable, a cure should not be attempted, until an issue is made in some more convenient part, which should be made to discharge nearly as much as the ulcer. (See Issues.) 420 Common Ulcers. An ulcer not attended by any considerable degree of pain and inflammation, and which affords a discharge of mild matter, of whitish consistence, the granulation firm, red, and of healthy appearance, is called the simple purulent ulcer, and is entirely a topical affection. This ulcer is the most simple that can occur, both in its symptoms and method of cure; and it is to the state of such a sore, that every other species must be reduc- ed, before a permanent cure can be effected. The causes of purulent ulcers are, all wounds that do not unite without the formation of matter, and every ex- ternal accident that terminates in suppuration, with an opening, as a consequence of it. In the cure of this species of ulcers, first remove any inflammation which may attend it, by emollient poul- tices, as bread and milk, renewed every three hours. As soon as the inflammation subsides, omit the poultices, lest the granulations be rendered lax and flabby; but keep the sore clean, and dress with some mild ointment, such as Turner's or the simple cerate (see Recipe 71 &. 67) spread very thin on soft lint, or apply dry lint, and upon that a piece of linen spread with the ointment. The thorn apple ointment (see Materia Medica) will be found a most valuable application to wounds. The frequency of dressing ulcers, must depend on the quan- tity of matter discharged; but in general they should be dressed once in twenty, four hours in winter, and twice in summer, and the greatest care should be taken, in renewing the dressings, not to expose the sore for any time to the air. When the ulcer is filled up with sound flesh, the remaining part of the cure consists in the for- mation of a cicatrix. This is frequently the work of na- ture; but, in many cases, w^hen every deficiency appears to be supplied, still a cure is tedious; the surface of the sores remaining raw, and discharging freely. In such cases, the sores shoijld be washed twice a day with sim- ple lime water, or with some of the astringent washes, (see Recipe 29.) Ulcers of the irritable kind, which yield a thin icho- rous discharge, sometimes bloody, and give pain on \ Common Ulcers, 421 being' touched, are brought to a favourable state by warm fomentations, as decoctions of marsh mallows, of the tops of wormwood, of camomile flowers, or hops (see Materia Medica) and by pouhices of the same in- gredients, to which may be added l:)ruised flaxseed or oatmeal. But so soon as the irritability of the ulcer is removed, these applications should be discontinued, and the common remedies for ulcers employed. However, there are cases of irritable ulcers being ren- dered more painful by the application of any thing warm,, and when this happens, such fomentations are not to be employed. There, the sweet oil or saturnine poultices applied cold, will be found most beneficial. Indolent ulcers which are marked by a backwardness in forming ja^ranulations, and in those that are formed, a want of sufficient strength to bring about a complete cure, require stimulating applications, as lime water, solution of kali, or any of the astringent washes (see Recipes 31, 30 &: 29.) Lint dipped in either of those solutions that may be found to agree best with the pa- tient, should be applied twice in twenty-four hours to the sore, after being carefully cleansed with castile soap and water. The strength of the solution should be gra- dually increased every two or three days; for what at first gives considerable pain, will soon lose that effect. Tincture of myrrh, pure or diluted, according to the state of the ulcer, is in many instances a good applica- tion, and a decoction of walnut leaves is exceedingly useful in disposing foul ulcers to heal. In some superficial ulcers, attended with a thickening of the skin, and when there is an unusual coldness of the limbs, without any tendency to mortification, warm salt water has been used with the greatest advantage. There is nothing of more importance, both in facili- tating and ensuring a permanent cure of ulcers on the legs, than compression; which, however, should never be employed until the inflammation has subsided. Soon as this desirable event shall have taken place, and the usual dressings are applied; then the affected part should be covered with several foldings of soft linen rags, and 422 rVounds. the whole secured upon the part with a cahco or flannel bandage, three inches in breadth, and four or five yards in length; or rather, as much as will support the limb from the foot to the knee. This bandage should be applied with as much firm- ness as can be borne by the patient, and as much even- ness as possible, by passing it first round the leg at the ancle joint, then once or twice round the foot, and after- wards up the limb in a spiral manner, until it reaches the knee, observing, that each turn of the bandage have its lower edge about an ifich above the lower edge of the fold next below. If the compression should give pain and produce inflammation, the part that is affected should be moistened with cold water, poured from a tea- kettle or tea-pot, and repeated as often as the above symptoms may indicate the necessity. Should any disease prevail, its removal must first be effected. If the patient be weak, the diet should be nu- tritious; and tonic medicines, as bark or the nitric acid, given in their usual doses. But if, on the contrary, of a plethoric habit, he should observe a spare and cooling regimen, and take a tea- spoonful of cream of tartar and flour of sulphur, thrice a day. In obstinaie cases, small doses of calomel until the system is affected with it, or the use of poke- berry bounce, will assist the cure. WOUNDS. The cure of all wounds is affected in two ways, either by adhesion or suppuration; and previous to attempting either of these modes, the hemorrhage or further eft'usion of blood should be restrained, and any extraneous sub- stance removed. Hemorrhages are to be restrained, by the application of dossils of lint, or by the tourniquet, or pressure with the hand, above the wounded part, until a ligature can be applied. In dangerous hemorrhage, or bleeding in the extre- mities, I have known the curative operations wonderfully assisted by simply raising the limb as perpendicularly as possible. In the erect posture, the gravity of the bloed Wounds, 423 so checked its velocity, as to enable the surgeon with o-reat care to stop its effusion, which he had not been able to effect while the limb was pendant, and its vessels distended with blood. Simple as this suggestion may appear, it is a new dis- covery in the science of healing, Vor which we are indebt- ed to professor Physick, whose extraordinary skill in that noble art, has conciliated to him that very amiable tide, " the American Hunter," and for safety of all surgical operations has placed Philadelphia on the same high level as Edinburgh itself. When ligatures are necessary in consequence of large arteries being wounded, the following rules are to be ob- served in applying them. If you have no tourniquet, take a garter or a cord, make a small linen cushion about four or five inches long, three broad, and about two thick, or roll up a handkerchief hard, in a similar form, and lay it on the trunk of the artery above the wounded part; pass the garter or cord, over the handkerchief, round the limb; tie a knot leaving a proper space; and then twist the liga- ture with a piece of stick, until the hemorrhage is com- pletely restrained; you are then to prepare a ligature, formed of two or three white waxed threads proportion- ed to the size of the vessel; after which slacken the ban- dage, in order by its hemorrhage, to discover exactly the situation of the artery, and with a tenaculum or a crooked needle, stick its point into the coat of the artery, and draw out the latter for an eighth of an inch, when a ligature, previously placed over the instrument in the manner of a ring, by one of the ends being put twice through the other, termed the surgeon's knot, is to be pulled over the point of the needle by an assistant; and when upon the vessel, its two ends should be drawn gently, until the sides of the latter are compressed. A second knot, if the artery is large, may be then made, after which the instrument isao be removed, and the ends of the thread or ligature cut off, at such a distance, that they may hang at least one or two inches without the edge of the wound. When a small artery is wounded, if it be divided, it JVounds* retracts, and the hemorrhage presently ceases. If it 15 punctured, the wound should be enlarged, and then the artery may be tied, if proper pressure proves ineffectual. Sand, dust, or small pieces of glass, &c. are best remov- ed by washing the parts in warm water, either by means of a sponge, or of a syringe. In the third place as the principal object, proceed to the employment of these means, which will probably heal the wound in the most easy and expeditious man- ner; for the longer this is neglected, the less is the part disposed to heal. Whenever the nature of the injury will admit of it, the divided parts should be immediately brought into contact, the irritation excited by the wound itself, will then generally be productive of a certain de- gree of inflammation, which will accomplish a union in the course of a few days; however, in relaxed habits, with symptoms of debility, the application of some sti- mulants, as Turlington's balsam, spirit, or balsam of apple, will be required to produce that effect. The wound is then said to be healed by the first intention, and this mode of cure should always, when practicable, be at- tempted. The means of drawing and preserving divided parts in contact, are bandages, adhesive plasters, and sutures. With respect to the two first, these should always be preferred to the latter, in wounds that do not penetrate to any considerable depth. The mode of applying adhesive plasters is by straps; one half of which is fastened on one side of the wound, and the other on the skin, on the other side of the wound, drawing it tight, and hold it firm until the warmth of the part secures it; but if the w^ound is deep, this con- tact of the sides must be made by sutures. In forming sutures, it should be observed, that one stitch, or suture, is sufficient for every inch of wound, and that the ligature or stitch should always be carried near the bottom of the wound, and the threads passed from within, outwards. Thus, a needle being put upon each end of the sam.e thread, well waxed, and each of the needles inserted at the bottom of the sore when pushed t)ut\vardly, about half an inch to an inch from the edge of ♦ Wounds, 425 the wound, according to its depth, will form one stitch, and the needle being withdrawn, the same thing is to be repeated, according to the extent of the wound. When all the stitches are completed, the lips of the wound are to be pressed together, and supported in that position, until the ligatures are tied in the manner as already directed for making a surgeon's knot. It is of consequence to observe, that where the use of sutures or adhesive plasters has been neglected at first, they may be employed with advantage during any stage of the sore, as the parts will unite at any time very rea- dily; and it will expedite the cure very much, to bring the edges of the ulcer into contact, whenever it can be done. When the parts are brought together, in the man- ner directed, in order to prevent the access of air, it will be proper to cover them with lint spread either with a thick mucilage of some mild gum, or some bland oint- ment, as the simple or saturnine, (see Recipe 67 and 68,) or in debilitated or relaxed habits apply Turling- ton's balsam, (see Recipe 59.) The first dressings of wounds should never be-re- moved, until the cure be completed, or until they ap- pear to be covered with matter, unless the pain in the wound becomes severe, and is productive of much in- flammation; and then the dressings should immediately be removed, and the parts gently rubbed with some olive oil, and a plaster of saturnine cerate, spread on soft lint, applied. If this prove insufficient, and the inflam- mation is observed to rise still higher, a separation of the lips, the stitches tense, and the points where stitches pass, particularly inflamed, cut the ligatures, and take away every thing that is like stricture upon the wound. All hopes of procuring adhesion must now be abandoned, and the wound should be brought to a spee- dy and plentiful suppuration, by flaxseed, or milk and bread poultices, often renewed; and as soon as there is a full appearance of pus, with relief of the more violent symptoms of inflammation, the poultices should be laid aside, and the sore then treated as a simple ulcer. When the sutures or plasters have been applied, and 3 H 426 Wounds, the symptoms of pain and inflammation continue mode- rate, they may generally be removed about the fifth or sixth day, as a union will by that time be produced. Gun-shot,* or lacerated and contused wounds, as marked by their ragp^ed and unequal edges, are the most dangerous of all others, from their disposition to gan- grene. Hence it is obvious that in these wounds, the means .to guard against mortification should be early employed. In the treatment of wounds of this descrip- tion, three stages are to be observed in its progress, which may be termed the inflammatory, suppurant, and the incarnating. In the management of the first or in- flammatory stage, especially if the patient complain of much pain, blood-letting should be had recourse to, and repeated according to the violence of inflammation and strength of the patient; and if possible to procure leeches, these should be applied near to the edges of the sore. Emollients are then to be used, as pledgets of mild oint- ments on the wound, with poultices of bread and milk, or flaxseed laid above, and renewed every three or four hours, in order to promote a speedy suppuration, which are the best means of preventing gangrene. When the pus is freefy formed, a separation of the most injured parts takes place, and as soon as they have come away, the edges of the wound may be brought together by plas- ters or bandages, but no kind of suture should be em- ployed; and the sore will then come to be treated as a simple ulcer. In the second or suppurant stage, the chief point is to check the excess of suppuration, and dispose the wound * Speaking of gun-shot wounds reminds me of a most awful and melancholy event, which not long since took place in Charleston, S. C. — I mean the death of the great physician and historian, Dr. DaA'id Ramsay. This gentleman, whose urbanity of manners, and extraordinary literary acquisitions, had rendered him the brightest ornament of science and society, was suddenly cut off amidst his usefulness to his family and country, by the pistol of a lunatic. The untimely fate of so truly amiable a man, and so distinguished a physician and patriot, as Dr. Ramsay, will long be remembered with the deepest regret. IFounds, 427 to heal. This depends on a light nourishing diet, with wine, and die plentiful exhibition of bark, and elixir vitriol. The third or incarnating stage is promoted, by plac- ing the member in a proper position, to give a free dis- charge of matter, assisted by pressure at the same time, and by opening every collection which appears; by re- moving splinters, bones, or whatever causes irritation — and by healing with astringent dressings of lint, dipt in the solution of kali, lime water, or any of the astringent washes (see Recipe 29) when the discharge is excessive. In the progress of wounds, certain constitutional symptoms arise, that demand particular attention; these are pain, inflammation and convulsive affections. The first of these, usually goes oflf in a short time, by attend- ing to the posture and ease of the wounded part, and removing any extraneous irritation; but when it conti- nues very violent, and for a longer time than usual, it will be necessary in the first place, to try the effects of laudanum, in doses of eight or ten drops every two or four hours; and when the inflammation is violent, to unload the vessels by topical bleedings; which may be further aided by fomentations and emollient poultices. If these are not sufficient, and the pain still continues acute, it probably depends on a partial separation of nerves; to relieve which, a complete division of them should be made. The latter complaints are spasmodic, which vary in degree from the slightest convulsive twitching, to the highest state of spasm in the attack of the lock-jaw. They are frequently the effects of trifling- injuries, a small scratch for instance, whidi does not penetrate to a greater depth than the skin, will sometimes induce them; and when they happen as the consequences of large wounds, they do not make their appearance un- til the sore seems nearly healed. Upon the first symptoms of these aff'ections the pa- tient should be immersed in a bath of warm water, soap-suds or a ley made with wood ashes, as long as he can bear it, and opium should be exhibited in pretty large doses, every two or three hours, as the symptoms 42S Mortification. may indicate. When this fails, the malady is to be treat- ed by remedies prescribed for tetany.' The constitutional treatment of wounds requires, du- ring the inflammatory stage, the strictest attention to the cooling regimen, a low spare diet, an occasional use of laxatives, and the wounded part kept in such a situa- tion as aflfords most relief. When suppuration is formed, a fuller diet will then be necessary; and if the discharge of matter is excessive, bark and elixir vitriol must be employed. MORTIFICATION. The word mortification, in its present acceptation, or meaning, is generally supposed to have place where the circulation is no longer performed through the diseased part, which generally turns blackish, and becomes pu- trid, producing a separation ot the diseased surface from the sound flesh, like an eschar, in consequence of a caustic having been apphed. In the incipient stage of this disease, which is termed gangrene, there is gene- rally a very high degree of inflammation, and a swelling of the parts affected, with some vesications, like those from scalds, but of different colours, according to the extravasated fluid, with which they are replete; some- times pellucid or yellow, at other times black or brownish. While things are in this state, attempts should be made to prevent a sudden change to a mortification: but, in order to effect this, it must be observed, that a tendency to mortify, may be owing to very opposite causes: it must therefore be extremely obvious to every man of consideration, that there cannot be any thing properly a specific for a disease, where a plethora or fulness is the cause in one subject, and inanition in another. We know very well that all inflammations may ter- minate in mortifications. It is also of importance to know that where there is a languid circulation, as in old age, or in cases of excessive debility from protracted Mortification. 429 fevers, the extremities not only threaten soon to become gangrenous, but the progress to mortification is often very rapid under such circumstances: for, not only the vital heat is deficient, but the vessels themselves are frequently diseased, and though duly distended with blood, are incapable of reacting on the contained fluid, which consequently in time must stagnate in the small vessels. Hence it is obvious, that a mortification may proceed from a circulation that is too rapid, or too languid; and consequently, the treatment must vary according to cir- cumstances, and the cause of disease. In the first case, general blood-letting, diluent drinks, with nitre dissolved in them, and the cooling regimen in every respect, are indispensable for its cure. And in the second, a liberal use of cordials and invigorating medicines, as wine and bark, to raise and maintain the vital heat, and to check the progress of putrefaction, can alone be depended upon. When the mortification proceeds from too languid a circulation, or when there is much pain, opium or laudanum is one of the greatest cordials, and should be taken freely every three or four hours, but not in such doses as to produce its narcotic effects. The best external application to arrest the course of gangrene or mortification, is to apply a blister over the gangrenous part, sufficiently large to cover one or two inches of the sound flesh, and afterwards to dress the part with cataplasms, made of bark or charcoal povv^der, (see Recipe 5,) and yeast, to be renewed every three or four hours, or as often as they acquire a putrid smell. When the mortified parts begin to separate, remove no more at each dressing than comes away without pain or loss of blood, and as soon as the gangrene stops, and granulations of good flesh appear, it is to be treated as a simple ulcer. 430 Sprains and Bruises. — Dislocation^. SPRAINS AND BRUISES. In the treatment of sprains and bruises, the chief point is to give an instantaneous vigour to the solids, so as to prevent the increase of effusion. Hence the part should be instantly phinged into cold water. After this, cloths wetted with vinegar or lead water, to which laudanum may be added, should be applied, and renewed as fast as they grow warm, until the pain and inflammation have somewhat subsided. The sprained part may then be dressed two or three times a day, with a bandage of brown paper, dipt in warm vinegar and spirits, or em- brocated with opodeldoc or volatile liniment, (see Re- cipe 64); always observing to preserve the part in the easiest and most relaxed posture. In addition to this local treatment, if the patient be of a plethoric habit, or the injury very severe, blood-letting, cooling cathartics, and a light diet are particularly en- joined. When bruises have been neglected at the onset, or become painful, warm fomentations of bitter herbs, are extremely useful; and their good effects will bf con- siderably aided, by applying the ingredients themselves as a poultice to the part as warm as can be borne, and sprinkled with a little finely powdered camphor. After serious sprains, the patient often complains of weakness and uneasiness in the injured parts. In such cases a stream of cold water, poured on the part at a considerable height, from the spout of a tea-kettle or pitcher, two or three times a-day, completes the cure, especially, if a flesh brush or flannel be vigorously used immediately before and after the application. Some as- sistance will likewise be obtained, by the use of a bandage or roller, to confine the swelling when thai symptom occurs. DISLOCATIONS. What is termed a dislocation, is the removal by force of an articulated bone, from its natural situation, which is easily known by a degree of protuberance on one side, Dislocations. 431 equalled by a corresponding hollow on the other; by comparing the joint of one member injured with its fel- low; by an inability to move the injured limb, and by pain and tension in the part affected. In whatever part a dislocation happens, it is of great importance to have it reduced as soon as possible; because, by delay, the ope- ration becomes extremely difficult, and very frequently rendered impracticable, after the inflammation and swell- ing have come on. Therefore, whenever this accident happens in the country, if medical assistance cannot immediately be obtained, the most intelligent person present should reduce the bone. In the replacing of dislocated limbs, the principal ob- ject to be attended to, is the mode in which the exten- sion is made; for the success of the operation depends more on this, than the force with which it may be ap- plied. Therefore gradually extending from one side to the other, and gently moving it upwards and downwards, is more likely to succeed, than strong extension in a right line: the force should be begun very gradually, and increased slowly at each trial, in case it resists the first. In case of a luxation being obstinate to reduce, bleeding so as to cause faintness, may often be used advantageously, and whilst the patient is in a weak state, there is a greater probability of success, from extension well directed; the operator at the same time, endeavour- ing with his hands to replace the dislocated end of the bone. After the bone is replaced, compresses made by two or three folds of old linen, wetted with vinegar or lead water, should be constantly applied to the part, in order to obviate inflammation; and the limb should be re- tained in its natural situation, by bandages, which should neither be applied over tight, nor over loose; as in one case they would compress too much, and in the other they would be no use to the parts. Where inflammation has taken place, before the re- duction is accomplished, it cannot be performed until that is overcome. For this purpose we must adopt the antiphlogistic plan, such as bleeding, keeping the bow- 432 Dislocatio7is, els in a laxative state, by the occasional use of the ca- thartic mixture, (see Recipe 11) and using warm drinks, together with the camphorated powders, and antimonial solution (see Recipe 2 & 6) in their usual doses, in or- der to promote perspiration. DISLOCATION OF THE JAW. The lower jaw may be luxated by yawning, blows, falls, chewing hard substances, or the Hke. This acci- dent may be known to have taken place, from the pa- tient's being unable to shut his mouth, or to eat any thing. The chin, likewise, either hangs down, or is wrest- ed to one side; and the patient is neither able to speak distinctly, nor to swallow without considerable difficulty. The common method of reducing a dislocated jaw is to place the patient upon a low stool, in such a manner that an assistant may hold the head firm, by pressing it against his breast. The operator is then to push his two thumbs, protected with linen cloths that they may not be bitten, when the jaw slips into its place, as far back into the patient's mouth as he can, and then, with his fingers applied to the outside of the angle of the jaw, en- deavour to bring it forward, till it move a little from its situation. He should then press it forcibly downwards and backwards, by which means the elapsed heads of the jaw will immediately slip into their place. DISLOCATION OF THE SHOULDER. The humerus or upper bone of the arm is the most subject to dislocation of any in the body, and may be luxated in various directions: the accident, however, happens most frequently downwards, but very seldom directly upwards. This dislocation may be discovered by the patient's inability to raise his arm, as well as by violent pain in attempting it, and by a depression or ca- vity on the top of the shoulder. When the dislocation is downward or forward, the arm is lengthened, and a ball or lump is perceived under the arm-pit; but when Dislocations, 433 it is backward, there appears a protuberance behind the shoulder, and the arm is thrown forward towards the breast. The usual method of reducing a dislocation of the shoulder is to set the patient upon a low stool, and to cause an assistant to hold his bod}^ firm, while another lays hold of his arm a little above the elbow, and gra- dually extends it. The operator then puts a napkin un- der the patient's arm, and causes it to be tied behind his own neck. By this, while a sufficient extension is made, he lifts up the head of the bone, and with his hands directs it into its proper place. In young and delicate persons an operator may generally reduce this disloca- tion by extending the arm with one hand and thrusting in the head of the bone with the other. In making the extension, the elbow ought always to be a little bent. If much difficulty occur in the operation, blood-letting, sometimes so far as to produce fainting, becomes neces- sary. This remedy seldom fails to facilitate the reduc- tion. DISLOCATION OF THE ELBOW. The bones of the fore-arm may be dislocated in any direction, but most commonly upwards and backwards. In this luxation, a protuberance may be observed on that side of the arm towards which the bone is pushed; from which circumstance, joined to the patient's inability to bend his arm, a luxation at the elbow may be known. For reducing a dislocation at the elbow, two assis- tants are for the most part necessary: one of them must lay hold of the arm above, and the other below the joint, and make a pretty strong extension, while the operator returns the bones into their proper place. The arm must afterwards be bent, and suspended for some time with a sling about the neck. Dislocations of the wrist and fingers are to be reduc- ed in the same manner as those of the elbow, viz. by making an extension in different directions, and thrust- ing the head of the bone into its place. • 3 I 434 Dislocations* — Injuries of the Head. DISLOCATION OF THE THIGH. When the thigh-bone is dislocated forward and down- ward, the knee and foot are turned out, and the limb is longer than the other; but when it is displaced backward, it is usually pushed upward at the same time, by which means the limb is shortened, and the foot is turned in- ward. When the thigh-bone is displaced forward and down- ward, the patient, in order to its reduction, must be laid upon his back, and made fast by bandages, or held by assistants, while by others an extension is made by means of slings fixed about the bottom of the thigh a little above the knee. While the extension is made, the ope- rator must push the head of the bone outward until it gets into the socket. If the dislocation be outward, the patient must be laid upon his face, and during the extension, the head of the bone must be pushed inward. Dislocations of the knees, ankles, and toes, are reduc- ed much in the same manner as those of the upper ex- tremities, viz. by making an extension in opposite di- rections, while the operator replaces the bones. In many cases, however, the extension alone is sufficient, and the bone will slip into its place merely by pulling the limb with sufficient force. It is not hereby meant that force alone is sufficient for the reduction of dislocations. Skill and dexterity will often succeed better than force; and one man who possesses them has been able to per- form what the united force of many was found inade- quate to accomplish. INJURIES OF THE HEAD, AND FRAC- TURES OF THE LIMBS. If, in consequence of a bad fall or blow, a considera- ble injury appears to have been received, the sufferer being unable, in consequence of the loss of his senses, to point out the injured part; some consideration is ne- cessary before any attempts are m^de^ even to raise him Injuries of the Head. 435 from the ground. Because should a fracture of one of the bones have happened, and not suspected by his as- sistants, their exertions to raise him, and to place him on his feet, might force the ends of the fractured bone through the soft part, and convert a simple fracture into a very dangerous compound one. The limbs, therefore, should be carefully examined; but even if they seem to have sustained no material injury, yet should the patient not be precipitately raised, until something be provided, on which he may be placed; as thereby unnecessary, and perhaps injurious exertions, are avoided. As it will be fair to conclude, from the deprivation of the senses, that the brain may have sustained some in- jury, great care should be taken, to convey the patient to his apartment with as little injury as possible, and whilst laying in bed the head should be somewhat raised. If the patient be of a plethoric habit, a moderate bleed- ing wiU be required, as soon as possible after the acci- dent; after which the bowels should be evacuated either by purgative medicines or glysters. One or two stools being procured, and if possible the warm bath used, the anodyne sudorific drops, (see Recipe 17,) should next be exhibited, to produce perspiration, and to excite ab- sorption of the extravasated blood; and this mixture should be continued in doses of ten or twelve drops every four or six hours, until the patient is out of dan- ger, observing to keep the bowels open. During convalescence, the bark, columbo or steel with wine, may be employed. If there be a laceration of the scalp, every attempt should be made to induce suppuration of the part, by the application of warm fo- mentations or poultices, and this taking place, a relief of all the symptoms will occur, when it is to be treated as a simple wound. But should it be discovered that a leg or thigh is bro- ken, the patient is not to be stirred until a proper vehicle, as a door, or two or three boards well secured together, is procured, on which he can be placed. To place him on this, two persons may raise him by means of a sheet slid under his hips, whilst one raises him by the shoul- 436 Injuries of the Head. ders, one person raising the sound leg, and one carefully conducting the fractured limb, which should be placed on a pillow, with the knee a little bent. I'hc best mode of conveyance is undoubtedly by two or four men, and a carriage should never be employed, when this mode can be adopted. As the patient will be under the necessity of lying some time without getting up, much subsequent pain and exertion will be prevented, by preparing the bed in the following manner. In place of the laced canvass, bottom boards are to be laid across the bed frame, which makes the bed hard and keeps it perfectly level and smooth during the cure. In place of a featherbed, a mattress only is to be laid above those boards; over this another, cut into four parts, with a piece of a sheet sewed round each portion, is to be placed, that they may be shifted under the patient from time to time. On the bed thus prepared, a pillow, like a mattress, flat and firm, is to be laid for receiving the limb. In setting a broken bone, very little extension is re- quired, nor should tight and firm bandages be used, which give considerable pain to the patient, without the least benefit. In a simple fracture of the thigh or leg, with patients not unruly, very little more is necessary than to restore the foot to a right direction with regard to the leg, and then stretch out the limb on a well made pillow; observing to extend, straighten, and lay it anew, when it is disordered or shortened, without fear of hurt- ing the callus. And when you have placed the limb be- tween two splints, or troughs, made of untanned leather or paste-board, which have been previously soaked and softened, the whole braced down with ribbons or tapes which may preserve it steady, you have done every thing. Having prepared two long troughs, or pieces of un- tanned leather or paste-board bent in a hollow form, lined, or rather cushioned with two or three folds of flannel, with tapes or ribbons, four or five in number, attached to the outside of one of the splints, by which both splints may, after all is over, be gently tied to- Injuries of the Head, 437 gether, with bow knots, to be slackened or tightened, according to the swelling of the limb; you are then lo place these by the side of the fractured leg, and direct one of the assistants to apply his hands broad around the upper part of the limb, and grasp it gently and steadily; take the foot and ankle in the same manner in your own hand; slip your left hand under the broken part of the limb, slide it gently along, and then lay it upon the splints, to which the ribbons are attached. If the bone cannot be reduced by this extension, en- deavour to force it in with your thumbs. Begin then to lay the limb smooth; let your assistant again grasp it, by spreading his hands upon the thigh, or below the knee, with the design of extending, along with you, not by lifting the kg from the pillow, but rather by keeping it down, and steadying it by pressure, while you, with both hands, lift the foot and ankle; grasp them gently, but firmly; raise them a little from the pillow, and draw gently, steadily, and smoothly. When you have thus extended and smoothed the broken leg, in a man- ner which you almost suppose agreeable, rather than painful, to the patient, press it down gently, and steadi- ly, upon the lower splint; the upper is then to be laid above it; and by grasping the soft and moistened splints, you must model them a little to the shape of the limbs. When the whole has taken a form, tie several tapes, one after another; and after having tied them in a general way, go over them again, one by one, and tie them a lit- tle closer, so as to keep the limb agreeably firm. The process is either slower or more imperfect in children and old people: their bones, therefore, are more apt to be broken again; hence with them the splints should be kept longer applied. On particular occasions also, particular precautions must be taken. Thus with delirious patients, and those who are liable to sudden motion, as when at sea, the limb after being set must be laid between two pillows, and the pillows fcistened to the bed. It is also, sometimes necessary to make the splints more secure, and this may be done by soaking a roller or bandage in whites of eggs, mixed with a little 438 Injuries of the Head, flour; or by strewing a little powdered rosin on the ban- dage, and afterwards soaking it with spirits of wine; or finally by soaking the bandage with fine glue, which makes a firm case, and is far from being offensive. Lastly, though splints and bandages in general are unnecessary during the cure; yet, when a patient rises from bed, rests the weight of his body on the fractured bone, and begins to be exposed to accidents, the splints laid along the limb, should be made firm by a bandage or roller as above described, to prevent those accid-nts which may be incurred by precipitation and rashoi^ss. In fractures of the arm, the parts hang naturally in the best posture, and require bat two splints of thin paste- board, rolled gently with a linen roller: and in frac- tures of the fore-arm, the limb preserves its natural length or form; it requires merely to be laid upon a long splint of paste-board, with a small splint laid above, the two splints being secured with light ribbons or tapes, and the arm from the elbow to the finger's ends supported by a sling or handkerchief round the neck, raising the palm of the hand to the breast, with the fingers moderately bent. When the arm is fractured between the elbow and shoulder, the fore- arm may be placed in the same position, as already described; but the sling, instead of supporting the whole lenght of the arm, should only sup- port the hand, which should be raised higher than in the former case, the elbow being allowed to sink; its motion, however, being prevented, by a handkerchief passed moderately tight round the trunk, including the fractured arm. When the small bones happen to be fractured, they must be replaced and retained in their situation, by splints and bandages fitted to the part. In using splints of paste-board or untanned leather, it is always necessary they should be applied in the first instance wet, so as to assume the form of the fractured part. After the first fortnight, the dressings should be occasionally removed to allow some motion of the joints; and then replaced, and daily removed for the same purpose. Fractures of the Ribs. 439 When there is an external wound, communicating with the cavity of the fracture, it is termed a compound fracture. This sometimes occurs by the prolusion of the bone; at other times by the same force which caus- ed the fracture. In such cases, the bone is to be reduc- ed by carefully attending to the posture of the limb, and by dilating the wound, when the bone becomes gir- ded in it. The wound is then to be dressed with dry lint, in order to allow the blood to coagulate, w^hich will torm a kind of scab, and every effort should be made to unite the wound by the first intention, thereby con- verting the accident to the state of a simple fracture. Almost all fractures are attended with contusion and consequently swelling; the abating of which is the first step that should be taken towards the cure, and is to be effected by bleeding, if the patient is of a plethoric ha- bit, by mild purges, a cooling regimen, and by the ex- hibition of the anodyne sudorific drops, as already de- scribed: the application to the parts affected should be- vinegar or lead- water, with crumbs of bread, or poul- tices made of stale beer or vinegar and oatmeal, with a little oil to prevent their growing dry or stiff. The swelling of the limb being subsided, and the cal- lus formed, cold water may be poured through the spout of a tea kettle over the fractured limb every morning to restore the tone of the injured parts. FRACTURES OF THE RIBS. The ribs are broken, for the most part, near to the middle. The accident usually proceeds from blows or falls; and is known by an acute pain in breathing, and a cre- pitus or grating being perceived, on pressing the rib in different places. By carefully passing the hand over the rib, the inequality produced by the fracture may be sometimes distinctly felt. Coughing produces a crepi- tation, which is frequently perceptible to the patient himself as well as to the bystanders. The only treatment necessary, in simple fractures of 440 Blood- Letting, the ribs, whether one or several be broken, is to keep the part, during the reunion, as much as possible in a state of rest. This is done by counteracting, to a consi- derable extent, their motion in respiration. To effect this, a bandage, six inches wide, is to be passed repeat- edly round the chest, as tightly as the patient can suffer it to be drawn. Its slipping down may be prevented by means of a shoulder strap. Instead of a roller, a jacket, of strong linen, capable of being drawn very tight, by means of tapes, may be used. Until the reunion be completed, the patient should be kept as quiet as possible. If the lungs be wounded by a splinter of the rib, blood will be spit up, and high fever and inflammation will be likelv to ensue. In this case, blood must be drawn copioushj^ from the arm; and the patient be treated, in all respects, as if he were labouring under pleurisy. BLOOD-LETTING. The art of opening a vein, and the necessary cautions respecting the operation, should be learned by every one; since cases of emergency may happen, when the necessity of its being performed is evident, and where life may be lost before medical assistance can be obtained. Another qualification necessary to be possessed, is that of being able to stop the flow of blood from a vein thus opened. To bleed, you are to apply a ribbon or ligature with some degree of tightness, an inch or two above the el- bow joint; and as soon as a vein is conspicuous, place the thumb of your left hand about an inch below the place of your puncture, and then with your right hand, holding the lancet firm betwixt your thumb and fore finger, make an incision obliquely into the vein, without changing its direction, or raising the- handle, lest the point, being lowered in proportion, should cut the un- der part of the vein, or perhaps even wound an artery.* * To discriminate between an artery and vein, is a matter of the vitmost importance. This is readily done if proper attention be paid. Blood Letting. 441 When the quantity of blood you wish, is drawn, un- tie the ligature, and close the orifice. To acconnplibh this, let the thumb be placed on the orifice, so as to bring its sides together, and to press it with a moderate force. The flow of blood will now be stopped, and the opera- tor with the hand, must introduce a compress, made by twice doubling a piece of linen about two inches square, between the orifice and his thumb; over this place ano- ther compress, three or four inches square, of a thick- ness sufficient to fill up the hollow of the bend of the arm, confining the whole with a ribbon or tape, passing over the compress, and above and below the elbow, in the form of a figure eight, finishing with a knot over the compress. If the bleeding continue obstinate, the sleeve of the gown or coat above the orifice, ought to be ripped or loosened — and if this do not succeed, the lips of ihe in- cision should be brought nicely together, and while they are compressed firmly by the thumb of the operator, the coldest water should be poured on the arm, or the ori- fice washed with sharp vinegar. The placing of a piece of adhesive plaster over the orifice in the vein, generally succeeds in checking the flow of blood. To bleed in the foot, a ligature must be applied above the ankle joint, and after opening the most conspicuous vein, if the flow of blood is not copious it may be in- creased by immersion of the part in warm water. On removing the ligature, the blood will readily cease to discharge, and a piece of court plaster is the best ban- dage. Topical blood-letting is executed by the application of leeches, as near as possible to the part affected, or by a scarificator, or an instrument with a number of lancets acted upon by a spring. The chief mark of distinction is, that the artery has a pulsation, which the vein has not. But frequently it happens, that an artery lies so immediately under a vein, that its pulsation may be felt through the vein. In such cases it will be prudent not to open the vein unless the operator ir, skilful} for it must be attended with danger. 3 K 442 Blood' Letting . When leeches are employed they must be previously prepared by drying them, or allowing them to creep over a dry cloth; the part also to attract them, should be mois- tened with cream, sugar or blood, and they confined on it by applying a wine-glass over them. When the scarificator is used, as soon as a wound is made, a cup exhausted of its atmospheric air, by burn- ing over it for a few seconds, a bit of soft paper, dipt in the spirit of wine, and on the flame of which being near- ly exhausted, must instantly be applied over the scarifi- ed part; when full, it is easily removed by raising one side of it, to admit the air. When you have taken away in this manner a sufficient quantity of blood the wounds are to be covered with some cream or mild ointment. In the operation of blood-letting, certain morbid con- sequences at times arise, which demand a special treat- ment. The most common of these, are a swelling of the part termed ecct/mosisy and when it occurs, shifting the posi- tion of the arm, so as to induce a free discharge, will lessen the tumour, if not entirely remove it. Should this fail, compresses dipt in the solution of sal ammoniac or brandy are to be applied. These also failing, and the swelling still continuing without any diminution, the tumour must be opened, and after removing the coa- gulated blood, the sore is to be treated as a common wound. This result, however, very rarely occurs. Another consequence which sometimes follows blood- letting, is an acute pain, immediately felt on the in- troduction of the lancet, and communicated from the part to the extremity of the member. The treatment of this complaint consists in the early use of cloths, wrung out of lead- water, applied to the part, and adopt- ing in every respect the antiphlogistic plan, as blood- letting, cooling cathartics, and a low diet, to obviate inflammation. This treatment not succeeding, laudanum must be given in large doses; which also failing, a free division of the nerve or tendon, which was pricked with the lancet, is the only remedy left. The last accident requires to be noticed, is the wound- Issues. 443 ing of an artery, which is known immediately after the operation, by strong compression of the vein, above and below the orifice, by the tremulous motion in which the blood flows, and by not being able to stop the dis- charge as usual. The cure of this affection may be at- tempted in the early stage, by compression, and observ- ing the antiphlogistic regimen. On their failing, the tu, mour must be extirpated, and then the ends of the vessel secured by means of a ligature until a reunion of the parts is effected; when the circulation is made to pursue a different channel. ISSUES. These are a kind of artificial ulcers, formed in differ- ent parts of the body, for the purpose of procuring a dis- charge of purulent matter, which is frequently of advan- tage in various disorders. Practitioners were formerly of opinion that issues served as drains, to carry off* nox- ious humours from the blood; and therefore they pla- ced them as near the affected part as possible. But as it is now known that they prove useful partly by the quantity of matter which they produce, and partly by sympathy, they are generally placed where they will oc- casion the least inconvenience. The most proper parts for them are, the nape of the neck; the middle, outer, and fore- parts of the shoulder; the hollow above the inner side of the knee; or either side of the back- bone; or be- tween two of the ribs; or wherever there is a sufficiency of cellular substance for the protection of the parts beneath. — They ought never to be placed over the belly of a muscle; nor over a tendon, or thinly covered bone; nor near any large blood-vessel. The issues commonly used are, the blister-issue, the pea- issue, and the seton or cord. When a blister-issue is to be used, after the blister is removed, a discharge of matter may be kept up by dres- sing the part daily, with an ointment mixed with a little of the powder of cantharides, or Spanish flies. If the discharge be too little, more of the powder may be used; if too great, or if the part be much inflamed, the issue- ointment may be laid aside, and the part dressed with 444 Issues, basilicon, or with common cerate, till the discharge be diminished, and die inflammation abated. It is sometimes most proper to use the issue ointment, and a mild one, alternately. A pea-issue is formed either by making an incision with a lancet, or by caustic, large enough to admit one or more peas; though sometimes, instead of peas, kid- ney, beans, gentian- root, or orange- peas, are used. When the opening is made by an incision, the skin should be pinched up and cut through, of a size sufficient to re- ceive the substance to be put into it. But when it is to be done by caustic, the common caustic, or lapis in- fernalis of the shops, answers best. It ought to be re- duced to a paste with a little water or soft soap, to pre- vent it from spreading; and an adhesive plaster, with a small hole cut in the centre of it, should be previously placed, and the caustic paste spread upon the hole. Over the hole an adhesive plaster should be placed, to prevent any caustic from escaping. In ten or twelve hours the whole may be removed and in three or four days the eschar will separate, when the opening may be filled with peas, or any of the other substances above mentioned. The seton is used when a large quantity of matter is wanted, and especially from deep seated parts. It is frequently used in the back of the neck for diseases of the head or eyes, or between two of the ribs in affec- tions of the breast. When the cord, which ought to be made of threads of cotton or silk, is to be introduced, the parts at which it is to enter and pass out should be previously marked with ink; and a small part of the cord being besmeared with some mild ointment, and passed through the eye of the seton-needle, the part is to be supported by an assistant, and the needle passed fairly through, leaving a few inches of the cord hanging out. The needle is then to be removed, and the part dressed. By this me- thod matter is produced in quantity proportioned to the degree of irritation applied; and diis can be increas- ed or diminished by covering the cord daily, before it is drawn, with an irritating or mild ointment. ADMONITORY HINTS TO LADIES. If we consider but for a moment, the wonderful power which superior beauty exerts over the human breast; how instantly at sight of a lovely woman, the hearts of the young are thrown into the most delightful palpitations; and the looks of the aged brightened with admiration and pleasure; we can no longer wonder that it should be so highly prized by the other sex. But it is to be lamented that such preposterous means should be employed to gain an end so desirable, and that real beauty should be so often mistaken. Thus, some girls fancy that beauty can only exist in forms slender and dehcate. At the very thought of be- ing corpulent, they are alarmed, and to obviate gross- ness, as they call it, they drink such quantities of vine- gar as not only destroy the tone of the stomach, but introduce a withered ghastly paleness. For the same purpose they continue the absurd practice of wearing oppressive jackets or corslets; which, by compressing the ribs, prevent the expansion of the lungs. Another imprudence, and still more detrimental, is that of appearing at assemblies in winter, in light dresses, exposed to the baneful effects of cold, with the aggravating addition of extraordinary warmth, by the fatigue of dancing; hence consumptions and a train of maladies, too long to be here particularly described, are produced. There are others who, reading of the fair skinned belles of Europe, foolishly conclude that the rose and the lily are the only colours of beauty. Catching at this female passion for fair and unfrec- kled faces, the quacks have prepared a number of 7ioS' trutnsy called cosmetics or beautifiers. These, they vauntingly profess are to heal the chaps on the lips — to remove pimples — and freckles — and to give the coun- 446 Adtnonitory hints to Ladies. tenance such a fair, smooth and charming^ appearance, as to render it impossible for any one to contemplate it without being enamoured. But unfortunately, these boasted cosmetics^ instead of heightening the polish and charm of beauty, too often contribute to tarnish and de- stroy it.* The truth is, beauty is not the creature of a quack, but the gift of nature; and to bring it to perfec- tion, nothing more is necessary than exercise, cleanli- ness, temperance and cheerfulness. These are the hand- maids of health; and healthy to persons of certain sym- metries and expression, is beauty. How much then is to be deplored, that so many of our young females, should think so meanly of exercise, which alone brings the female frame to perfection — paints it in the loveliest colours — and by giving rich- ness to the blood, and vigour to the nerves, disposes to habitual cheerfulness, and alike qualifies the mind for thought, and the heart for love. On the contrary, how different is the female who leads an inactive and sedentary life, too generally looked on as proofs of a fine modern lady, which seldom fail to relax the system — retard the circulation — vitiate the blood, and obstruct the secretions. Hence, that chalky paleness of the face — that faintness of the eyes — indi- gestion — flatulence — weak nerves — low spirits — irre- gularities of nature — and constant complainings. Yes, many a girl by constant muffling and housing herself; by dreading that the sun should ever kiss her cheeks, or the wind ruffle her tuckers; by much indul- gence in bed, and other imprudencies, renders herself so exceedingly pale, and delicate, and puny, that her appearacce is better fitted to damp love than to excite it. * To such of my readers as are partial to the use of cosmetics, an infusion of horse radish in milk is recommended as one of the best and safest. Another innocent preparation for clearing the skin of pimples, and recent eruptions, is the expressed juice of house- leek, mixed with an equal quantity of sweet milk or cream. When these fail, blistering the facii all over the eruptions will often suc- ceed in removing them. 447 MENSTRUATION. One of the principal constitutional characteristics of the female, is menstruation, or the monthly evacuations peculiar to the sex. This important operation generally takes place about the age of twelve or thirteen, but varies through the world, either in degree or frequency, both from consti- tution and climate. Its return is generally once a month; and in robust constitutions it continues for a shorter period, than in the more weakly. It is of importance for women to know that occasional irregularities are not always the eonsequence of this dis- ease. Constitutions vary as much in respect to the re- gular returns of this discharge, as they do with regard to its first appearance, or its final cessation. Those in whom the change occurs very early from vigour of con- stitution, require little to be done for them; but in weak- ^ er and less plethoric young women, the non-appearance of this evacuation is too often considered as the cause, whereas it ought to be viewed as the effect, of the state of the habit unpropitious to its taking place. And ac- cording to family practice, under this false impression, warm teas and forcing medicines are employed at the approach of this disease, which have often done much harm. Nature is not so defective in her own judgment as to require such auxiliaries. Care should be taken so to manage the habits of their lives, as to improve the ge- neral state of their health, by attention to diet, moderate exercise, change of air, and cheerfulness, which will be found to have the happiest influence on the body and mind, and gives a salutary impulse to the circulation of the blood. When the habit of a young w^oman is full, and the complexion fair and florid, a low diet, cooling cathar- tics, and bleeding, will be proper to relieve some oc- casional indisposition; but the same complaint must be treated differently, if the constitution be backward, the 448 Menstruation, frame delicate, and the person of a melancholic tempe- rament. In such cases a nourishing diet, change of air, gentle exercise, particularly riding on horseback, with strengthening medicines, as the rust or tincture of steel, or the tonic powders in tiieir usual doses, together with the occasional use of the stimulating purgative pills, (see Recipe 4 and 2I) to keep the bowels in a regular state, are best calculated to assist nature. For the spasmodic pains of impeded menstruation, when the above means have failed of aftbrding sufficient relief, a foot bath about the temperature of the blood, may be used with advantage on the eve of menstruating. Sitting over the steam of warm water may also asf^ist, and when these are insufficient, a grain of opium com- bined with six grains of camphor, should be given at bed time. With respect to the immoderate flow of the menses, all women know what is its ordinary quantity and dura- tion; but they should also remember, that what is to one woman a just and due proportion, would be to another, from the difference of constitution and temperament, an immoderate flow; and before they attempt to restrain it, let thena carefully consider, what may have been the exciting or occasional cause. They are too frequently told that such a situation arises from mere debility; and under that belief will take cordials atid stimulating me- dicines. In general this is not the case, and by such improper treatment, the flow is increased, and the habit rendered feverish. In every case where there are febrile symptoms, an amendment cannot take place until the antiphlogistic plan, such as bleeding, nitrous medicines, cooling ca- thartics and a low diet, with rest, are adopted. When the hemorrhage is sudden and profuse, the clothing which may occasion the least interruption to the free circulation of the blood should instantly be re- moved, and the patient placed in a recumbent posture, enjoying cool air. Every thing which is drank should be as cold as possible, and cloths dipped in cold vine- gar and water, should be frequently applied to the loins Menstruation, 449 and abdomen. Preparations of sugar of lead and ipeca- cuanha, (see Recipe 21) are highly important in this complaint, where the hemorrhage is profuse. When flooding has induced much debility in the sys- tem, it will be proper during the interval of menstrua- tion to employ cold bathing and tonic medicines. The occasional cause should in all cases be particularly avoided, as by these means only the disease is to be pre- vented. A few observations in this place on the fluor albus, or whites, may with propriety be introduced. This trou- blesome complaint, in like manner as the preceding condition, is too often considered by the sex, as the ef- fect of general weakness in their habit. .[ I;cy are there- fore, again led to the indiscriminate use of heating and tonic medicines, as wine, bark, &c. without regarding the habit of body or cause of the disease. Local complaints of the chronic kind are commonly unconnected with constitutional causes; but by the mis- management of them, women either infect the constitu- tion with them, or they increase them, through having injured the general condition of the habit.. It is under chronic local complaints of all kinds, even in both sexes, that so much more good may be done, by doing but little cautiously, and trusting much to time, under the secret and salutary agency of nature. A sick person should not therefore deem the physician's pre- scription trifling, as to the end desired, because it may appear in itself of little importance. A milk diet, change of air, and the partial cold bath, as sponging the loins and thighs with cold water every morning, with attention to cleanliness and proper exer- cise, and avoiding the occasional causes, are often suffi- cient to eflfect a permanent cure. However, in addition to this plan of treatment, when the disease arises from debility, or laxity of the vessels of the parts, the balsam capiva, and the tonic powders or pills, or the rust of steel alone, in their usual doses, may be employed with the greatest advantage. Ten grains of powdered rosin taken three or four 3 L 450 Pregnancy. times a day, in the yolk of an egg, or a little molasses, is an excellent remedy in this disease. If the discharge should continue after the employ- ment of these means, a strong infusion of green tea or oak bark, to which a little alum may be added, should be thrown into the vagina several times a-day, and the tincture of cantharides taken in some mucilaginous drink, in doses of twenty or thirty drops, thrice a-day. In respect to the final cessation of the menses, it is brought about by a particular change in the condition of the womb itself, and not through any material altera- tion in the constitution. How absurd it is therefore to set up any power to act in opposition to this established law of the animal economy. With these important changes of the constitution may sympathize, and be dis- composed, if improperly treated; but by the laws of nature, the general health, both before and after these local alterations, may be better, than when under the influence of menstruation, which was solely ordained for one most important function ©f the woman's life. It is true at that critical period, when the discharge is about to cease, which occurs between the 40th and 50th year of a woman's age, the cessation is sometimes suc- ceeded by a determination of blood to the head, lungs, or bowels; but this is owing to their general tempera- ment, and may be easily obviated by moderate exercise, a spare diet, and the occasional use of aperient medi- cines, to keep the bowels in a laxative state, and in case she complains of violent headach or giddiness, by blood- letting. PREGNANCY. The great varieties of the female constitution occa- sion pregnancy to be to some of the sex, of no trouble or distress, through the whole period of child-bearing; but it is to others often a continual disease, they being, perhaps, from the very first week to the last of their pregnancy, more or less disturbed in their frame from the peculiar irritability of their habits. The usual pe- ! Pregnancy. 451 riod, however, that its troublesome sympathies and anti- pathies prevail, is during the first month, until the time of quickening is past. In the young and healthy constitution, one of the most early symptoms of the incipient stage of pregnan- cy, is an uneasiness in the breasts, somewhat differing from what she may have been accustomed to on the eve of menstruation, and soon attended with some sen- sible addition to their natural fulness and weight, as well as with a particular change in the appearance of the are- ola, or dark circle round each nipple. The nipples also soon become more prominent, some bulbous or glandu- lar eminences around them enlarge, and a milky fluid will stain the linen, which had not been at all, or so much observed before. These occurrences may justly excite in the mind, the first apprehension of pregnancy, after which, the interrupted course of menstruation ge- nerally establishes the certainty of the situation. Nature would sc^, by these early notices, to put the mother immediately upon her guard, that she may not by imprudencies, and too much freedom, disturb the tender embryo. The most important circumstances to be attended to, in the incipient months of pregnancy, is the costive habit of the bowels. This will more or less accompany the whole period of pregnancy. Its prevention will subdue, if not wholly keep off, some of the troublesome complaints of the stomach; and will often guard, most securely, against some of the exciting causes of early abortion. The complaints which occur in the early months of pregnancy, require a variety of treatment, in different circumstances. When symptoms of fulness appear in young women, formerly healthy, and accustomed to live well, indica- ted by pain or giddiness of the head, and flushings in the face, or when the sickness is constant or excessive, moderate bleedings will be exceedingly useful. But in opposite circumstances, where there is appearance of nervous delicacy, along with symptoms of indiges- ,1 452 Pregnancy. tion, and consequently debilit), bleeding must be care- fully avoided. In such cases, a nourishing diet, good air, cheerful society, and easy exercise, are most pro- per. Bleeding, cautiously used, either to reduce a too plethoric state of the general habit, or to alleviate some morbid afffction, is a salutary agent; but it is in gene- ral more frequently had recourse to in pregnancy, than it should be, upon very erroneous principles. Because a pregnant woman, though by one of the established laws of nature, is now obstructed, they conceive it pro- per to draw blood, ihat the constitution may be freed of an imaginary redundancy, not recollecting that the process of pregnancy is going on, to employ the inter- rupted menstrual fluid, to the now essential purpose of affording growth and support to the increasing womb itself, as well as to its contents. All the temporary be- nefits to be derived from blood-letting, may be most safely and permanently attained, by a due attention to the diet, and to the state of the bowels. Vegetables well boiled, and ripe fruits, are exceedingly proper for pregnant women, subject to a costive habit. When the stomach appears affected, along with con- stant loathing, or frequent retchings, the offensive mat- ter should be discharged by gentle vomits of ipecacuan- ha, and the cold infusion of camomile flowers, or co- lumbo root, drank daily. If this affection is accompa- nied with a plethoric habit, or feverish disposition, small bleedings will generally give temporary relief; and when it occurs in a constitution of the nervous irrita- ble kind, laudanum in its usual doses may be depended upon. The floodings to which women are liable, at any time of pregnancy, occurs most frequently in the first months, and vary much in their character and tendency. They are more or less attended with danger, according to their frequency, and to the time of pregnancy. In the early months they will sometimes put on the appear- ance of a copious flow of tlie menses, and render the sex sometimes doubtful of their situation. This will Pregnancy, 453 happen most frequently in the first and second months, and may be connected with the monthly paroxysm of the womb, aggravated by the existing state of pregnancy. When such hemorrhage has occurred, some injury has most hkely been done to the embryo, whereby it is blighted; and about ihe third month of pregnancy, the patient will miscarry, if she does not at the time that the flooding first happens. However, by prudent management on the first alarm, such as keeping quiet and cool, by giving internally cold acidulated drinks, and by the application of a bladder with cold water, in which some crude sal am- moniac is dissolved, or cloths wrung out of vinegar and water, to the organ affected, the hemorrhage may be restrained, and abortion prevented. If the discharge should be attended with pain in the back, a dose of laudanum will put a speedy stop to the threatened dan- ger. Bleeding will be found of great service in pletho- ric habits, to prevent miscarriage; but when the symp- toms which threaten it, have already come on, it is im- proper. In these cases, women should also be cautioned against adopting the idea, that this symptom arises from debility. Many, from this mistaken notion, have occa- sioned themselves to miscarry, by having recourse to the use of port wine and bark, by which they have also generally impaired their constitution, and have brought on a disposition to flooding, which has continued many months. In relaxed habits, the hazard of relapse must be guarded against, by the use of tonic medicines, a nou- rishing diet, moderate exercise, and the cold bath, but not on its extreme. Sea bathing, or bathing in a vessel in the patient's room, with the water a little warm, three or four times a week, is not only an excellent method to prevent miscarriages, but other disorders w hich are incident to pregnant women, and generally attendant upon a weak lax fibre. In full habits, or when there is an evident disposition to plethora, gentle evacuations, a 454 Pregnancy. cooling regimen, and an abstemious and spare diet, are the best prophylactics. The irritable, as well as the plethoric woman, should take heed in time, and guard herself against disturbing the process of conception, in its early stage, by avoiding the occasions of either sudden alarm, fatigue, fever, or whatever might derange the equable state of her health, and by attending to those means for its preservation, which are best suited to her particular constitution. Women advanced in their pregnancy, are frequently liable to pains in their back and loins, and cramps on the sides of their belly, and legs, and thighs. When they are violent, and the habit is full, smaH bleedings, gentle laxatives, a light spare diet, and occasional opi- ates, are the best palliatives. By caution and good ma- nagement, these occurrences seldom prove any bar to a safe delivery, or a favourable getting up. Nothing can be of greater importance to a pregnant woman, than cheerfulness. They should therefore not be depressed, by the relation of any unpleasant intelli- gence. Some women are often greatly disturbed by the account of misfortunes which have happened to others in the same situation. The impression made on a timid mind, may remain during the whole state of pregnancy. The general health may be thus impaired, and the approach of labour too much dreaded; so that both body and mind arc in a less favourable state, than they would otherwise have been. It should be considered, that though difficult and dangerous cases now and then occur, they most com- monly terminate well, if properly treated, and their num- ber exceeding small, when compared to the multitude of women who are delivered, and it is probable that it would be still smaller, if the cautions above laid down were properly observed. We would further caution women against having re- course to cordials, to raise their spirits when low. Their good effects are, at best, but temporary, while they are ultimately baneful to the constitution; and the use of a small quantity too frequently produces the necessity for Pregnancy, 455 a larger, until both the mother and the unborn infant arc injured by this pernicious practice. The best cordials for lowness of the spirits in pregnancy, are pure air, mo- derate exercise, and a light and cautious diet. There is another affection of the mind of a different character, from which lowness and hysterical indisposi- tions often arise; namely, the force of a pregnant woman's imagination. This is often supposed to reach the infant in the womb, and to occasion marks and other defor- mities. But every mother may feel confident, that Pro- vidence has better guarded the unborn innocent, than to have exposed it to injury, from every variation in the feelings of a parent. Even admitting the possibility of such an influence, it could only take place at a very early period after conception, while the embryo is in its most tender state; and even then, it seems, in a manner, se- cured by nature against the above accidents, by the pe- culiar provisions made for its defence in the womb. But it soon attains a sufficient degree of firmness to over- come any sudden or irregular impulse of the blood, from which alone such deformities, or other blemishes, could happen. The mother should, as much as possible, avoid every occasion of terror, on her own account, when any thing alarming occurs; but, let her not fear that her child will be marked from thence, or, still less, from some hidden operation of a disappointed longing, which most gene- rally does not take place, until the above-mentioned period is passed. Numberless examples could be produced to convince women that the notion which most of them have, that figures of animals, or other extraordinary marks, are stamped on the face or the body of the foetus in the womb, by the mere force of the woman's imagination, is a gross error. In every instance it will be found, where a child is marked, the supposed cause of it has never been mentioned by the mother until after its birth; and when a woman has really been alarmed during her preg- nancy, and ventured to foretell that her child would be marked, she has as uniformly been delivered of her fears 456 Progress of Labour, and her child together, for her prediction has never been verified.* PROGRESS OF LABOUR. When a woman, after a preceding day of ease and un- usual activity, about the full period of her reckoning, begins to feel some restlessness about her, with occa- sional pains in her loins and sides; if she further per- ceive, that the bulk of the belly has fallen, that the mo- tion of the c!>ild has not been, for some time, so sensi- bly and frequently felt, and that she has a nervous hur- ry of the spirits upon her, with a feverish glow of heat, she may then conclude, that nature feels an inclination to prepare her for the termination of her pregnancy. Some persons are disposed, at this time, to a laxity * Dr. Moore, in his Medical Sketches, relates a case so strongly in point, attended with such singular circumstances, that it is worth mentioning here. " A lady who had a great aversion to monkies, happened unfor- tunately, during the course of her pregnancy, to visit in a family where one of those animals was the chief favourite; on being show- ed into a room, she seated herself on a chair which stood before a table, upon which this favourite was already placed. He, not natur- ally of a reserved disposiiion, and rendered more petulant and wan- ton by long indulgence, suddenly jumped on the lady's shoulders. She was terrified, and screamed; but, on perceiving who had treated her with such indecent familiarity, she actually fainted: and through the remaining course of her pregnancy, she had the most painful conviction that her child would be deformed by some shock- ing feature, or perhaps the whole countenance, of this odious mon- key. " The pangs of labour did not overcome this impression; for in the midst of her pains, she often lamented the fate of her unfortu- nate child, who was doomed, through life, to carry about a human soul in the body of an ape. When the child was born, she called to the midwife with a lamentable voice, for a sight of her unfortunate offspring, and was equally pleased and surprised when she receiv- ed a fine boy into her arms. After having enjoyed for a few min- utes, ail the rapture from this clfange from pain and misery to ease and happiness, her pains returned, and the midwife informed her that there was still another child. " Another!" exclaimed she, " then it is as I have dreaded, and this must be the monkey after alll" She was however, once more happily undeceived; the se- cond was as fine a boy as the first." Progress of Labour. 457 of the bowels, which is by no means an unfavourable symptom; and, in very costive habits, if nature should not relieve herself, it will be advisable to take some gen- tle aperient medicine, to bring about that which is un- questionably favourable on the eve of every, but parti- cularly the first, labour. Premature labour is sometimes threatened by pains, which produce, for a while, some real change in the womb, sufficient even to give the practitioner just reason to expect, that they will .erminate in delivery. But things again recover their pristine state; the alarm of na- ture subsides, and the woman proceeds in her pregnancy, for several days longer, and sometimes for several weeks. As the change in the womb, above-mentioned, does certainly occur, even on a false alarm, it should put young and female practitioners on their guard, lest they promote labour too hastily, either by general treatment, or any manual operation; for these would only fruitlessly tease the patient, when the judicious exhibition of an anodyne would do every thing that can be wished for. When, in consequence of irregular or premature pains, the membranes containing the waters with which the child is surrounded, have been broken before labour has really commenced, it must be expected soon to take place; though, if the pains should have entirely ceased, on the discharge of the waters, it may be delayed for some days; but it most frequently happens within twen- ty-four hours. There is nothing in this circumstance alarming. It may occasion the first part of labour to be more slow, but not in any degree less safe io the end. It arises wholly from the fineness of the membranes, w^hich contain the waters, and which must rupture in every labour, at some period or other; and hence the waters are sometimes unexpectedly discharged, in a sudden manner, without the least preceding pain. In a slow labour, especially if it be the first, part of the time, commonly spent in the lying-in apartment, might with more propriety be passed in the usual do- mestic habits. It would serve to lessen the too anxious 3 M 458 Progress of Labour. expectation of a speedy delivery, as well as to prevent the impatience of the attendants, both of which are often improperly indulged. In the mean while, the apartment may be properly prepared, and the patient had better not go into it, until that necessary bustle is over. Some attention is also requisite, as to the manner of preparing the bed. The mattress should always be placed upper- most, especially in summer, and the necessary appara- tus and covering so arranged, that the patient may not require to be taken off the bed, after her delivery, which is often exceedingly improper, and, indeed, sometimes impracticable; not to mention the fatigue it always oc- casions, even when it may be d(»ne safely, as to other particulars. Little things are often of great importance, and are sometimes found to be so, when it is too late. Women should so prepare their dress, against the time of labour, that it may not be necessary to disturb them, soon after delivery, by a change of apparel. When this is properly managed, they avoid an unseasonable fatigue, and the hazard arising from linen which may not have been cautiously aired. A sensible woman should always consider, that, in a slow labour, she may be afflicted with many distressing, and what have been called false, or spurious, pains; but there are very few by which nature does not mean some good in the end. She must therefore give her mind to patience, as all unnecessary interference would rather retard, than assist the labour, and will only be employed by the designing and unskilful. Labours vary considerably in respect to duration. The first, if at the full period of gestation, is generally much the slowest, for very evident reasons, which occur on that occasion only. But any subsequent labour may be tedious, from circumstances of a peculiar nature, but equally safe, with respect to the conclusion, as those of ordinary rapidity, provided no interference be used, and nature be left to the secure, though slow, accomplish- ment of her object. When a woman, in her first labour, is within an hour or two of her delivery, she ought, on no account, to be Progress of Labour. 459 restless, or violent in her exertions, which many are apt to be, when the conclusion of the labour draws near. It is then that the practitioner is to guard against the se- rious consequences, which have sometimes attended the violence and hurry of the patient. More good will be derived from prudently delaying, than from hastening, the birth of the child, especially if it be the first, and this, even though the powers of nature herself may seem more than equal to the delivery. For this, and other reasons, which will presendy be mentioned, it is also proper that such means should be used, as will prevent any part of the child being born into the world in too sudden a manner. We will now suppose the woman is just safely deli- vered of her child, and that a complete cessation of the regular pains has followed. She must now endeavour to calm that disturbance of the whole frame, which, added to her anxiety of mind before delivery, had excited a great degree of heat and perspiration, especially if it should have been her first labour, or one attended with some unusual difficulty. In this state, she must not let herself chill, or cool too fast. It may, perhaps, have been necessary to throw off the bed clothes, during the last hour or two: if so, they should immediately on the birth of the child, be lightly placed over her again. She may now moisten her mouth with a cup of tea, grit gruel, or barley water, for either of which she w^ill feel desirous, if she has not been taking frequently of one or the other, during the latter part of her labour: but they must be given her without wine or brandy. If she feels herself disposed to sleep, she should indulge it: at all events, she should keep herself quiet, and not encourage con- versation. For it may be observed, that in general, the mind of a woman newly delivered of her first child, is so occupied with the novelty, as well as the anxiety, of her situation, that her attention is too long kept alive, and therefore she can scarcely sleep, though exhausted by the fatigue of her labour. The midwife must now carefully attend to the degree, and force of contraction, which the womb is disposed to 460 Progress of Labour. take on, immediately or soon after the birth of the in- fant. Tlie experienced practitioner will indeed have a presentiment, even while it is coming into the world, of what is likely to take place afterwards, from the man- ner in which the expulsion of the infant is completed. This should be effected slowly, even after the head is born, because such a practice favours that kind action of the womb, necessary to detach the placenta, which a contrary method will interrupt, and, we have no doubt, has often been the cause of its being, with difficulty, brought away. Premature, or active endeavours to loosen it, must, however, be avoided, if its separation should not readily take place, by the seasonable contrac- tion of the womb. Let the operations of nature be watched, and she will prove the surest guide, though, in this part of the delivery, she ought never to be wholly depended on. The loss of blood, naturally consequent to the birth of a child, varies exceedingly in different women, and even in the same women in different labours. On some occasions it is very trifling, and on others, considerable; and the variation may either depend upon constitutional predisposition, or be occasioned by the peculiar attach- ment of the placenta to the womb. In some it will partly precede the descent of it, and in others, will wholly take place after it, though not immediately. It cannot happen to excess before the delivery of the af- ter-burthen, but from some peculiarity of circumstances, provided proper attention be paid in time, to favour the first endeavours of nature to throw it off. The skilful practitioner, however, may know that it is safe, and yet not think it proper to bring it away immediately. A woman should, therefore, avoid expressing any impa- tience about it, as this might induce some practitioners to use that despatch which is not altogether consistent with their opinion; as many for want of firmness in their own judgment, have done, that the patient, or her friends, might not have it afterwards to observe, that they were a long while in bringing away the after- bur- then. Progress of Labour. 461 This kind of censure is too frequently passed upon the just conduct of the midwife, from the improper pre- judice, so often indulged, in favour of a speedy delivery of the placenta. Women are too apt to deem that prac- titioner most skilful, who is the shortest time in finishing that part of a labour. Fatal, therefore, have sometimes been the consequences of this ill-judged management, particularly among the female practitioners. The pla- centa, when it is at the command of the midwife, is sometimes a means of preventing that flooding which always excites a considerable degree of alarm in the lying-in room, and is certainly increased by the terror of the patient. It is a mistaken idea, that, in general, some external mechanical force is necessary, in order to expel the placenta. We cannot, therefore, approve of the modes, occasionally recommended, of coughing, sneezing, blow- ing on the back of the hand, or making general pres- sure over the belly, with a view of helping its descent, by any kind of tight bandage applied to the abdomen, immediately after the birth of the child. The tender uterus may suffer from this pressure; nor is it of mo- ment, as to the effect it might have, either of disposing it to contract, or of supporting the viscera, which are not as some suppose, relaxed, but only the parts of the abdomen containing them. We generally find that the womb has of itself contracted, in a favourable manner, when there has not been any very sudden, or hurried, delivery of the infant. Neither can pressure be necessa- ry, as some have lately asserted, to prevent the immo- derate expansion of an elastic vapour in the intestines, from the sudden change in the bulk of the womb dimi- nishing the volume of the contents of the abdomen. The position, to which a woman generally inclines, soon af- ter her delivery, of itself supports the belly. If any thing further is wanted, a pillow placed before her will be sufficient, against which the patient may rest with that degree of pressure, which will feel agreeable to her. There is also a general action of the hand on the ab« 462 Progress of Labour. domen, which the patient herself may perform, and by which the uterus is tenderly excited to contract, and the placenta. of course detached, in the most favourable manner, that will be found more useful than a bandage, or any extraordinary exertions of the patient, for this purpose. But as this may not be necessary in every case, it must be left to the judgment of the practitioner to direct, with the proper cautions to be observed in the application. We would further observe, that there can hardly ever be occasion for a woman to bear down, during the delivery of the placenta. Indeed, on many occasions, it must be carefully avoided, lest it should produce, or increase, a disposition to the prolapsus uteri. The throes, which take place naturally, are caustd by the contrac- tions of the womb, and with them alone the practition- er can generally, in due season, safely bring it away. They are most seasonable, when they quickly follow the birth of the child. We do not approve of a free and indiscriminate use of greasy applications, in the progress of a tedious la- bour. They are wholly unnecessary in the first stage of it, and in the latter part they interfere with the chan- ges, which then take place naturally, and produce that mucous secretion, by which the parts are most favour- ably lubricated, for the easy termination of the labour. But, after the complete removal of the placenta, it will be proper to apply a small quantity of mild pomatum, or fresh lard, to defend the parts from the acrimony of the ensuing discharges. Women will sometimes be liable, from peculiar irri- tability of habit, to some degree of faintness after de- livery, most commonly after the coming away of the placenta; but they may comfort themselves with know- ing, that it is not always caused by too great a loss of bloodc It is generally occasioned by uterine pains, and, though the patient may be faint, and even pale, the pulse will continue to be felt the whole time. On re- covv:ring from the swoon, they are able to recollect that some degree of after- pain had immediately preceded Progress of Labour, 463 the faintness. Under these circumstances, it would be - proper to take a cup of milk-warm gruel, with a little wine and nutmeg, unless they have taken a sufficient quantity of proper nourishment since the birth of the child; for they should avoid overloading the stomach, as a nausea from fulness will sometimes occasion faint- ness. When this circumstance has occurred, and has been removed by the above treatment, it will be still prudent to indulge themselves longer than usual, before they undergo the bustle of being settled in bed; and if they have really had rather a free discharge of blood, it would be advisable, that they be as little as possible disturbed, for several hours, and not raised to an erect position of the body, until they feel sensible they arc quite revived. If hemorrhage alone should cause the faintness, then cloths wetted with cold vinegar and water, must be fre- quently applied over the surface of the belly. A more effectual remedy, when the hemorrhage is alarmingly profuse, is to pour cold water out of a pitcher from a height on the abdomen. This scarcely ever fails to check the effusion. Cloths wrung out of cold vinegar may also be applied to the vagina. Air should be admitted freely into the chamber, if the syncope is very great; some cool light nourishment should be given, and great quiet observed for a length of time: but it will be proper not to take cordials, or warm liquids, at first. The occasional return of uterine pains under these distressing appearances, may afford ' consolation to the practitioner, and to the alarmed friends of the patient. If these general rules are observed, especially if a medical gentleman is not in attendance, they will proba- bly prevent immediate danger, and in time recover the patient. The restoration of the circulation will be deno- ted, by the return of the pulsation at the wrist. But it will always be proper to call in medical assistance ini- i mediately, when the above alarming circumstances oc- ' cur. 464 MANAGEMENT OF CHILD-BED. A child-bed woman, as soon as all the circumstances of her labour have been adjusted, may with propriety consider herself as still in a state of health, and as requir- ing little more than the common cautions, and good management on all occasions necessary to preserve it. The first hours after delivery, provided some light nourishment has been taken, should be dedicated to quiet and sleep, and no persons should be allowed to enter the patient's chamber, except such as are abso- lutely necessary. A number of people, besides preventing repose, foul the air, and render a frequent supply necessary. The chamber door, and even the windows, if the weather be warm, should be opened every day, and the room in every respect kept as clean, and as free from any disa- greeable smell, as any other part of the house. The patient should often be supplied with clean linen, well aired; for cleanliness, and free, pure air, are essen- tial in this situation; and upon the strictest examination it appears, that there never was miliary eruption produc- ed without a sweat, nor a puerperal fever without either foul air, an accumulation of excrement in the intestines, or confinement of the patient to a horizontal position, thereby occasioning a stagnation and absorption of acrid matter, except in cases where violence had been used in the delivery of the child or the placenta. The heat of the room ought to be so tempered that the patient may neither be chilled with cold, nor yet suffer from sweat or burning. The strictest attention should be observed to have an evacuation daily by the use, if necessary, of mild laxa- tives, or by the exhibition of glysters composed of milk, oil and sugar, or of soap suds. It is a security against fever and inflammation; and even forms one principal mode of relief, when they are already affected with either the one or the other. An equal regard should also be paid to get out of the bed as soon as they can with pro- Management of Child-Bed. 465 priety, and to sit up as long as possible, without fatigu- ing themselves. If the lochia do not flow so plentifully as may be ex- pected, or if they entirely stop, no irritating or forcing medicines should be used. They never do any good, j and are often productive of much mischief. If the patient I be otherwise as well as can be wished, no regard need j be paid to this circumstance. We not only find this evacuation very diiferent in different women, but even in the same woman in different lyings- in, from which she recovers equally well. Much mischief is often done by binding the belly too tight. If there be any occasion for support, a thin nap- kin pinned very slightly round the waist, is all that is absolutely necessary, and the sooner this is disused the better. But little change takes place in the breasts, after the first months of pregnancy, until about the second' day after deUvery. Then it is usual to feel a greater sensa- tion of fulness in them, accompanied with a febrile irri- tation, which varies in different women, according to constitution and management; but in all is favoured by temperance, a cool regimen, and composure of mind. The child should always be put to the breasts early, before the milk can have stagnated in them, or they can have acquired any great degree of hardness. It will be beneficial both to the mother and child, \^ this be done in a few hours after delivery; and this is most consistent with the operations of nature. If the patient have not nursed any fofraer child, the infant will probably meet with difficulties in fastening on the nipples. In this case some older infant should be applied, or it will be proper to have them drawn by some other means, without giving pain. If the breasts grow knotty,, they should be gently rubbed twice or thrice a day with a soft hand, moistened with sweet oil, or the volatile liniment (see Recipe 64). If they become inflamed and hard, a poultice made with the crumbs of bread and lead water, and applied nearly cold upon the part affected, and renewed every four or 3 N 466 Management of Child-Bed, five hours, vviil generally remove the complaint in a short time. Should this treatment not succeed in twenty-four hours, the application of leeches and the exhibition of the cathartic mixture, (see Recipe 11) will probably be attended with advantage. If, notwithstanding these, suppuration should ad- vance, warm bread and milk, or flax -seed poultices, must be frequently applied over the part, until the abscess breaks, after which they may be employed twice a day^ observing at each dressing, to carefully press the matter from the wound. As soon as the matter ceases to dis- charge, the sore may be healed with Turner's cerate. (see Recipe 71) or some mild ointment spread thin on soft lint. During the inflammatory state of the breast, the child must suckle entirely at the other breast, by which the blood will be diverted to it in greater quantity, and the impulse of the circulation at the inflamed part will be in consequence diminished. The practice of covering the breasts with flannel, or too many clothes, is a frequent cause of their becom- ing inflamed; as, from the heat and perspiration they are thereby kept in, they are much more liable to receive cold from the exposure of the chest in putting the child to suck, whatever precaution may be taken to avoid it. To prevent the nipples from becoming sore, they should be washed daily during the last month of preg- nancy with brandy or port wine, to harden their tender surface; but when they become inflamed, or chapt, the use of those astringent applications must be discon- tinued. The best application to them, when ulcerations are formed, and attended with a sharp acrimonious humour, is a strong mucilage of gum arable, or they should be often washed with quince, or flax-seeds. Thick rings made of beesvv^ax, and fitted very exactly to the nipples, are often preventive of sores, by keeping the nipples elongated. They should be applied imme- diately after the child has finished its suction, and be put on so that the ends of the nipples may protrude Management of Child-Bed, 467 themselves through them. These rings, however, ought not to be used, when tlie milk runs out in too great quantities. If the woman do not suckle her child, no method should be used either to repel the milk or invite it into the breast. Nature will be certain to do her part. She is soon made sensible, that the blood determined to them is not wanted, and there will therefore be very lit- tle further effort made on her part to continue it, and it will in the course of a short time cease of itself A cool- ing caihariic, with a suitable regimen, will entirely su- percede the necessity of any local treatment, and is all that can be required, even when a mother has suckled before. No degree of fever in child-bed should be passed over unattendeii to, or be thought lightly of. Even the most serious are often slight at their beginning. Neither should any local pain, or tenderness, or fulness of the bowels be neglected, lest they should arise from the in- cipient state of some inflammation, which, if not checked at first, by proper medicines and suitable regimen, might, in a short time, put on some alarming appearance. Let it be remembered, that it is much easier to prevent dis- eases than to cure them. It will, however, be proper, to prevent unnecessary alarm, to notice that the milk fever, which comes on about the second or third day, is not dangerous, and that it will not return a second time, if the cathartic mixture (see Recipe 11) be administered to open the bowels, and a cooling regimen observed. It may also be very necessary here to point out the difference between the pains which sometimes happen to women under puerperal confinement. Those which take place soon after labour, unattend- ed with fever, and affect principally the back and loins, are not dangerous, and will readily give way to a dose of laudanum. But the pains confined to the belly, at- tended with tenderness on pressure, and are more or less accompanied with fever, indicate that some local inflammation has taken place, and the suitable remedies to subdue it cannot be too early employed. 468 Management of Infants', We have already observed in this chapter, that a warm regimen, and foul stagnated air, are the causes of miliary, puerperal fevers. It is therefore obvious, in order to their cure, that cleanliness, cold acidulated drinks, and a free and even cold air be strictly enjoined. In the beginning of these fevers, blood-letting is sel- dom adviseable, as they soon put on the form of putrid- ity, and require the same mode of treatment as recom- mended for the cure of nervous or putrid fever, unless the pulse is much excited, accompanied with other symptoms of violent action, in which case, the deple- ting system should be pursued. MANAGEMENT OF INFANTS. As soon as the child is born, it is proper to moisten the head and chest with a little brandy, which is all that is necessary, until the navel string is tied. In general, there is more impatience shown by the attendants, than is prudent, in respect to tying the navel string, and removing the infant from the bed. It is al- ways proper to let the pulsation in the cord entirely cease, before this is done, unless the child has previously cried. In order to tie the cord as it ought to be, two ligatures will be necessary, which should be formed of such a number of threads, knotted together at each end, that in tying firmly with them, there may be no danger of dividing the navel string. And, as soon as the circula- tion in the umbilical cord is stopped, one of them is to be applied about three or four fingers breadth from the navel, and the other about two inches from the first, on that side next the placenta, and then divide the cord between them. Ift respect to the first washing of the infant, nurses are sometimes at a loss how to proceed. It is most frequently born so clean, that much washing is not ne- cessary. A httle soap is recommended to be used with the first water, to which it is proper to add a spoonful or two of brandy or rum. The water need not be more Management of - Infants. 469 than milk warm, and the head of the child should be washed first. The infant is sometimes born with a cheesy mucus on its skin, , which is most in quantity at the bendings of the limbs and back. It will be more readily removed, with the assistance of a little soft pomatum or sweet lard. It is adviseable not to remove the whole of it at the first washing. The remainder will be more easily taken oflf the next day, when the child may again be washed all over with some warm water and spirit. But this is only to be used a second time, when this cheesy mucus has been in so great a quantity, that it requires more time to get it off, than can with propriety be employed at the first washing. For the regular daily washing, only cold water should be used, with which the child should be washed all over, beginning with the head. It should be finished as expeditiously as possible. The infant should be af- terwards well dried, particularly at the bendings of all the extremities, and the whole body and limbs should be gently rubbed with dry soft linen or flannel until a glow of warmth appears upon the skin. It is the manner of washing a child that secures it from suffering from the application of cold water. The more delicate and weakly an infant is born, the more will cold water strengthen it, if well applied; and, besides its bracing qualities, it will by cleanliness, prevent excoriations, and keep off that troublesome complaint, termed the scald head. When the application of cold water has been omitted for some days, it will be better to begin with the addi- tion of some brandy to the water, lessening the quan- tity of it gradually, so as to leave it off entirely in a fev/ days. When children are a few months old, cold bathing may be substituted in the room of washing with cold water: and it may be proper here to add some direc- tions, respecting the mode of dipping a child in cold water. Of these, the principal is, carefully to watch for that moment when it has taken in a full breath, and 470 Management of Infants. then to plunge it into the water, and take it out instant- ly, so that no part of the action of respiration may be necessary, during the time of submersion. The child will then breathe freely on being taken out of the water, and suffer little or none of that agitation, which often defeats the intention of the practice, and produces a terror when it is to be repeated. The next article to be noticed, in the management of the new-born infant, is its dress. Very improper me- thods are often taken, even from the birth, to strengthen the apparent weakness of a young child, such as the practice of tight rolling, by which means the circula- tion of the blood is impeded, and the action of the ab- dominal muscles hindered from properly performing their offices. If it is wished to have them strong upon their limbs, and properly active, early in life, as by nature they are intended to be, they should have the perfect freedom of their limbs, and their bodies easy, from the first day of their birth. Their clothes should therefore be reasonably loose upon them, and not too great in quan- tity, although properly proportioned to the nature and variableness of the weather. The quantity of an infant's bed covering should also be appropriate to the season of the year. Children should not be used to too much. If this article is not ju- diciously managed, as they grow up, they will be apt to perspire in bed, the consequence of which is, that they take cold, by throwing off the clothes, or they are weak- ened in spite of cold bathing, by the relaxing effects of heat and moisture. With respect to the proper manner of purging the new-born infant, the first thing commonly given by nurses, is butter and sugar mixed, which has often been detrimental by promoting acidity in the bowels. If the infant, after being completely dressed, is appa- rently quite easy, it should be laid down to sleep, with- out taking any thing. And after a few hours, it may be applied to the mother's breast, whose milk is not only opening, but has the effect of promoting the natu* Mamgemejit of Infants, 471 ral action of the intestinal canal. However, if the infant appears to be loaded with phlegm, a little well made plain grit gruel should be given immediately, and when this or its natural food, the milk, is not found sufficient to expel the meconium or first black stools, and the child appears to be indisposed, a tea-spoonful of good castor oil may with propriety be given. As most of the infantile indispositions arise from overloading their stomachs, it is of great importance to pay due attention to the feeding of them. Nature has pointed out that mother's milk is the most suitable nourishment for the child; but even of this their sto- machs may be gorged. The mother would do justice to herself and child, if she would not accustom it to suck in the night after go- ing to rest. Good habits are early and easily acquired with infants. When the child is to be brought up by the hand, considerable judgment is necessary to proportion the quantity of food to its age and strength. Weakly chil- dren will always require less food than those who are stronger, for they are less able to digest it. They are frequently attacked with alarming and even fatal con- vulsions, from their bowels being over-loaded. Under all circumstances, if the food is too thick, or given in too great a quantity, the perfect digestion of it is pre- vented. When the infant cannot obtain the milk of the mo- ther, or that of a healthy woman who laid in about the same time, the best food, for several months at least, is goat's milk, ass's milk, or cow's milk alone or mixed with an equal quantity of well-boiled grit gruel or ar- row root. If the child's bowels be in a laxative state, the milk may be boiled; but otherwise, it had better be given freshly drawn from the animal, or slightly warm- ed. It is not necessary to feed a child oftener than five or six times in twenty-four hours, and the less it is fed in the night the better. It is a most ridiculous error to suppose, that whenever a child cries, it wants victuals, 472 Management of Infants, and thus to be constantly feeding it both day and night. If the child's wants and motions be judiciously attended to, it will be found, that it seldom cries, but from pain; and if it be properly nursed, and quite easy in its dress, it will rarely cry at all. Nurses should be particularly cautioned not to lay a child on its back when fed. In the posture of sitting, it swallows its food more easily, and more readily feels when it has enough. As the child advances in age, and its strength in- creases, weak broths with a little barley, rice, or hard biscuit boiled in them, may be allowed. Without a proper degree of exercise in the pure air, our attention in clothing and feeding infants, will not succeed to our wishes. It is therefore of great import- ance, both to the population of the country, as well as the health of the inhabitants, that parents should atten- tively consider, that the more children are exposed to the open air, within prudent bounds, the hardier they grow, and the less they are subject to take cold. In the first period of infancy, the exercise should be very gentle, and afterwards increased, as the strength of the infant increases; and that will always be best, which, at the same time it gives motion to the body, appears to divert and entertain the mind. Independent of those means already described, to ensure the health of children, and preserve the human species, we must have an equal regard to the disposi- tions of children. It must be remembered, that on the treatment the child receives from his parents during this stage, will perhaps depend much of his misery or hap- piness, not only in his passage through this but through the other stages of his existence. If, on the one hand, every little sally of passion and impatience is immediately controlled; if that which is admissible is regularly permitted, and that which is improper, as regularly withheld, the little creature will soon learn to distinguish that which is allowed, from that which is prohibited. He will indeed urge his claim, for that which he has been taught he has a right to; but will not harass himself and his attendants with ceaseless Diseases of Infants, 473 shillings, or raving to obtain that wliich uniform pro- hibition has placed beyond expectance. But a melancholy reverse appears, if on the one hand no consistency is observed in his management; if at one time, the shghtest indulgence is refused, and at another ihe most extravagant, and even injurious cravings are gratified; the child becomes more and more fretful, till at length he manifests such ill nature, as to render him odious to all around him, and sooner or la-'er the poor little suftererpays with his life the purchase of his early- indulgences. DISEASES OF INFANTS REQUIRING EX- TERNAL TREATMENT. In this chapter, we will make a few observations on those diseases to which the newly born infant is liable, from the circumstances incidental to its birth, and which require principally external treatment. The head and face of a child after a difTicult labour, or from an unfavourable presentation of the face, will sometimes be very much swelled. It will commonly subside in a short time. But when a tumour remains on any part of the head, it must be bathed several times a-day with brandy alone or mixed with vinegar, which will soon disperse it. The scrotum will also sometimes be remarkably tu- mid, and even discoloured, particularly when a child has been born by the breech presentation. In this case it will be proper to suspend it by a cloth, after first co- vering it with a piece of linen, wetted with brandy, which should be frequently renewed. When an infant is born, with no other sign of anima- tion than a weak pulsation of the heart, and the arteries of the navel string, we must endeavour to rouse the circulation by frequent applications of warm cloths, and by rubbing the nostrils, temples, and extremities, with spirits or volatiles. A table- spoonful of brandy must be poured on the child's breast, and if possible a little 3 O 474 Diseases of Infants, of it should be swallowed. Stools should also be pro- cured by glysters, or by giving a dose of castor oil. Infants are born with a thin membrame under their tongue, called ih^frccniim, which is sometimes so broad as to require dividing, in order to give freedom to the tip, and to allow the child to take proper hold of the nipples in sucking. It is easily divided by a sharp pair of scissors, and the operation can nevtr be attended with any inconvenience, or hemorrhage, if it be done with proper caution. The infant generally has an evacuation from the bow- els soon after birth. If, however, any length of time should have elapsed without one, it will be proper to ex- amine the fundament, which is sometimes imperforated, so that the meconium cannot be voided. This case can only be relieved by a surgical operation, by which the natural passage is opened, and afterwards secured from closing again by the introduction of the bougie. The vagina of the female is also sometimes imperfo- rated. Parents should therefore carefully examine the infant, that it may not grow up with a defect, w^hich at a certain period of life, must inevitably prove trouble- some, and which, at last, will require an operation to relieve. When a child suffers from a retention of urine, it should immediately be inquired into, whether the orifice of the urethra be pervious. This obstruction is more rarely, met with in the female than the male. If it be found closed, the skill of the surgeon is required. Some- times an infant will be very long, perhaps a day or two, before it voids the urine, where no defect or obstruc- tion is to be seen. It will then be proper to rub the bel- ly with some warm brandy mixed with a little oil. Some have recommended it to be rubbed with an onion. Whichever be used, it is advisable immediately af- terwards to apply to the belly a bladder half filled with scalded bran, or camomile flowers, or hot water; and lest by some accident it should burst, it would be pro- per to enclose it in a setond bladder. A glyster of thhi gruel, with a little oil, should be ^iven, and if necessary, Diseases of Infants. 475 a tea-spoonful of castor oil may be swallowed. If the child is in considerable pain, a few drops of laudanum mav with propriety be added to tlie glyster. The breasts of infants will often enlarge considerably, within two or three days after they are born. The vul- gar notion of nurses, respecting the cause of this ap- pearance, is the occasion of much bad management. They become tumid, and appear to contain something like milk; and ihey have therefore often been rubbed and squeezed with a roughness amounting to cruelty. If the pressure of the clothes is avoided by their being put on loosely, it will go off gradually without any ap- plication; but in case of much inflammation, equal parts of brandy and vinegar must be applied cold by means of soft linen, or poultices of the crumbs of bread and lead water or milk, should be employed for its resolu- tion. Many mothers will make themselves uneasy about the falling off of the navel string. This generally happens about the fourth or fifth day, but often earlier, and some- times much later. When it separates, the nurse need only apply a piece of linen rag, scorched. If there should be more than usual tenderness, it may be proper also to sprinkle it with a little prepared chalk, or starch. In some instances, there is a discharge, and the 'part continues raw, and then it will be proper to apply three or four pieces of soft cabbage leaf, laid one over an- other, that they may be preserved moist and cool, and continued as long as the discharge may be considerable. The bleeding which sometimes happens at the navel, is of such little consequence, that a light compress, with some gende styptic, and secured by a stick- ing plaster or bandage, soon removes it. The soreness, Vv'hen considerable, may require a milk and bread poul- tice, and the exhibition of some mild laxative medicine. Infants are sometimes very early troubled with her- nial affections; and when they happen in the groin, all that can be done, is to bathe the part occasionally with brandy, keep the body open, use the cold bath, and prevent the child from crying as much as possible. 476 Diseases of Infants. Rupture of the navel has already been treated of, in the preceding part of this work, under the head of rup- tures. There will often appear in the scrotum of infants, at birth, a turgescence, which has been called the watery rupture. Of this it is proper that parents and nurses should be aware, that it may not be mistaken for the true rupture. From this it will be readily distinguish- ed by its transparency, and by its not becoming larger when the infant cries. It will generally Itc cured by compresses moistened with vinegar and water, with the addition of as much brandy as the skin is able to bear. But the best method is to puncture the bottom of the tumour with the point of a lancet, which is attended with very little pain, and soon effects a cure. Another little complaint like the watery rupture, is tumefaction of the prepuce, which also arises from ex- travasated water, and is a partial dropsy of the skin. The complaint will be removed in a few days, by wash- ing the part frequently with lead water, or by applying a poultice made with it and the crumbs of bread, and by keeping the bowels open. An mflammation will sometimes attack the eyes of children soon after birth, which has been usually attri- buted to cold; however, that is not the cause. A slight case will do well by keeping the eyes clean, and washing very frequently with cold water. If the eyelids should stick together when the infant sleeps, it will be prudent to apply a very small quantity of sweet oil, fresh butter, or lard, to their edges. When the inflammation is con- siderable, a blister to the nape of the neck, and the oc- casional use of the cathartic mixture, (Recipe 11,) in doses of a tea spoonful every hour or two, to keep the bowels in a laxative state, are proper. The inflammation x^rmtdi galling^ which so frequent- ly occurs in the groin, between the legs, and on the neck of an infant, evidently arises from inattention to cleanli- ness, and from the use of coarse or new pilches,^ * If children were attentively held over a pan from tlie month, Diseases of Infants, 477 The cure will easily be effected by washing the parts often in cold water, and after being wiped dry, dusting them witli prepared chalk, or starch. If the excoriations are situated about the genitals, it may also be proper to apply a thick mucilage of gum arabic, or to cover the part with a little fresh saturnine or simple cerate, to de- fend it from the action of the urine. Slight ulcerations behind the ears of infants are also very common, and only require to be washed daily with cold water, and covered with a singed rag to keep the cap from sticking to diem. They are sometimes bene- ficial, especially during bowel complaints, or teething; and will get well and break out again into very foul sores several times, without any cause for alarm. However, when these sores become extensive and painful, it will be proper to apply a blister on the nape of the neck, to draw off the heated serum, and to give, now and then, a few grains of magnesia and rhubarb, or the absorbent and aperient mixture (see Recipe 9.) The sores should also be well washed with castile soap and water, and dressed with an ointment composed of one drachm of calomel and one ounce of the simple cerate mixed well together, and spread on each side of a dou- ble linen cloth; which must be applied twice a day. DISEASES OF CHILDREN REQUIRING MEDICAL TREATMENT. Before we proceed to the consideration of those dis- orders requiring medical treatment, it may be proper to give a hint in regard to the doses of medicine. In pre- scribing for children, the chief difficulty lies in fixing the appropriate dose; and hence medicines more fre- quently fail with them, or are over-dosed, than with the adult. As a direction, therefore, it is proper to examine in a general manner, the proportions fit for this early period of life. it would be found that they are more cleanly than people suppose, and would supersede altogether the use of cloths, either by night or day. 478 Infantile Jaundice, — Snuffies. Thus seven years require half the dose of an adult. Three years the fourth. One year the sixth. One month ........ the tenth. With these proportions in view, where no peculiarity of constitution exists, the doses stated will generally succeed. INFANTILE JAUNDICE. That yellow colour of the skin, which is observed in some infants a day or two after birth, arises from vis- cid matter affecting the gall-ducts; and is readily re- moved by the exhibition of three or four grains of ipe- cacuanha, or a few drops of antimonial wine, to excite vomiting, and by keeping the bowels open by the occa- sional use of the absorbent and aperient mixture (see Recipe 9), or a watery infusion of rhubarb. Should the symptoms continue, the emetic ought to be repeated after tvvo or three days, and the above mixture or rhu- barb given every other day. SNUFFLES. This term is given to a disease, which generally affects children within the month, and most commonly in the first or second week, on account of the noise made in respiration. The discharge is much more abun- dant than that which attends common cold. It is, from the first, purulent and thick; and afterwards turns thin. Children afflicted with this malady are always of a weakly, unhealthy habit; and though having apparently no particular complaint, they seem incommoded from a stoppage of the head, which is particularly percepti- ble in sleep, when their breathing is difficult. A purple streak is observable on the verge of .the eye-lids, as an attendant on this disorder, with a general fulness exter- nally, about the throat and neck, lis duration extends to several weeks; and when it departs, it is usually sue- Red Gum, 479 ceeded by a disorder of the bowels and other com- plaints. This disease appears with various dej^jrees of violence. The chief symptom that gives uneasiness here is the difficulty of breathing through the nose, which arises from an inflammation of the membrane, that lines the posterior nostrils and throat. By this inflammation ex- tending, every part comes to be affected, even to the stomach and bowels, and hence the great and increabing debility it quickly occasions. The stools are thick and pasty, and of a peculiar green or blue colour. From this account of the disorder, the state of the bowels is a circumstance which must be more attended to, than in almost any other disease. To this end, one or two tea-spoonfuls of castor oil should be given every day, so as to procure four or five evacuations daily. The bark should be given in a decoction or glyster, joined with cordials, to support the strength of the child. The same remedies should be exhibited to the wet nurse. * The acrimony of the discharge on the adjacent sur- faces of the nose and throat, should be prevented by washing the parts frequently with warm camomile, or elder-flower tea, and afterwards applying a little sweet oil. Where convulsions are threatened, or occur, lau- danum is very proper, after the operation of laxative medicines; and in many cases, the anodyne should be given two or three times a-day. In this disease, blisters are improper, as tending to produce gangrene of the part. RED GUxVr, Is an efflorescence of spots, varying in their size and appearance, confined to the superior parts of the body. In general it is necessary only to keep the bowels open with the absorbent and aperient mixture, or magnesia, and to keep the child moderately warm, otherwise the rash striking in, may fall upon the bowels and produce fever. Infants are Uable to various kinds of rash, both 0 480 Thrush. — Costiveness, ^c, in the mouth and on the body, till the period of teeth- ing is over. These cutaneous affections will be found owing either to some ill quality in the breast milk, a heating regimen, or errors in diet. It is only necessary to avoid the occa- sional causes, and the infant will not be troubled with them. THRUSH, Is an eruption of white spots, generally appearing within the month, on the lips and inside of the mouth, and sometimes affecting the whole alimentary canal. Like the preceding disease, it ow^s its origin to som.e affection of the first passages, and consequently will re- quire a similar treatment. As a local application, borax and honey, in propor- tion of one drachm of the former, finely powdered, to an ounce of the latter, and well mixed together, will have an excellent effect in cleansing the mouth, and healing the ulcers, especially when the milk adheres much to its surfaces. A little of this paste may be .put on the child's tongue, as often as may be necessary to keep the parts clean; which will be licked to every part of the mouth, and will effectually do, without putting the infant to pain, by forcibly rubbing it on. But the cure is not permanent, unless the occasional causes are avoided, and the absorbent and aperient mixture, (see Recipe 9,) or magnesia, be given to subdue the feverish state of the svstem. •I COSTIVENESS AND WIND. Costiveness may be either constitutional or acquired. When constitutional, it is better to do but little, parti- cularly if the child appears in tolerable health in every other respect. In case of acquired costiveness, the pre- vention, as well as cure, will only be permanently found by avoiding improper treatment and diet. Flatulence generally accompanies costiveness, and Looseness, or Cholera Infantum, 481 is sometimes attended with pains of the stomach, and bowels, which are indicated by the drawing up of the infant's limbs, and by its agonizing manner of crying. Under such circun»stances, it will be proper to apply warmth to the belly, by bran or camomile flowers heat- ed with hot water, and put into a bladder, which is only to be half filled \vith it, and then tied and wrapped up in a flannel. At the same time it will be proper to give a tea- spoonful or two of castor oil. If this should not operate speedily, or the child remain in much pain, a plain glyster of thin gruel should be administered. The suppository will sometimes answer very well. The best in common use is prepared by scraping a can- dle until it is rendered sufficiently small and tapering to introduce it into the anus about an inch, or two inches at most. It will be better to dip it in oil be- fore used. A strip of paper or linen cloth twisted up, and well moistened with oil, is easily introduced, and forms also a good suppository y or dry glyster. It is a very common practice to give carminative me- dicines to infants, in order to remove flatulence, such as grated ginger and spices of different kinds. These ought never to be employed when the infant is the least feverish, or when the bowels are in a costive state. If any flatulence remain after costiveness has been re- moved, and there are no febrile symptoms, a drop or two of laudanum, or double the quantity of parego- ric, fennel tea, and a little of the absorbent and ape- rient mixture, (see Recipe 9) or magnesia, may be giv- en w ith advantage. It is the bad manner of feeding, as well as over-feed- ing children, in general, even at the breast, that is the cause of almost all they suffer from costiveness, flatu- lence, and acidity. LOOSENESS, OR CHOLERA INFANTUM. A purging is one of the most frequent complaints of infancy; however, it should be remembered that it is not always a disease; but on the contrary, it often proves 3 P 482 Looseness^ or Cholera Infantum, a remedy. By it, nature most commonly throws off an offending cause. Its causes, therefore, and treatment, require very particular attention. Both vomiting and purging very often arise from un- wholesome milk or other food, from teething, from a moist cold air, as well as from the sudden disappear- ance of some eruption on the skin. The purging is not then hastily to be stopped, until the offending cause be removed. The treatment, therefore, of this complaint, must consist first in removing, as far as possible, the irrita- ting matter, and then checking die particular symptoms. If the offending cause appears lodged in the stomach, the cure should begin by giving an emetic, and after- ter wards small doses of rhubarb, or the absorbent and aperient mixture (see Recipe 9). The nature of this disease is to be often drawn from the appearance of the stools, and the treatment ought in a great measure to be regulated from that circum- stance. Thus when the stools are sour and curdled, after the necessary evacuations have been premised, the ab- sorbent mixture (see Recipe 8) or a few grains of pre- pared chalk or magnesia, combined with grated nut- meg, or some aromatic, is strongly pointed out, in ad- dition to opening medicines. When again the stools are slimy, and of a clayey colour, in addition to the former plan, injections of soap-suds are not to be omitted, and castile soap dissolved in milk will be found a useful drink. When die stools are watery and bloody, or foetid, castor oil and calomel are the best purgatives, and if attended with much griping, glysters of milk and soap- suds should be often repeated. The extent and continuance of this plan, must de- pend on the obstinacy of the complaint. To these me- dicines, opiates according to the age of the child, may be given with the greatest advantage at bed-time, pro- vided there exists no febrile symptoms. When the child is cold and languid, the purgative medicines ought to be joined with some aromatics, as grated ginger, and given less frequently: and during the intermediate days, as well as the evening after the Discharge from the V agina. 483 physic has operated, a cordial diet, such as the addi" tion of wine in gruel or arrow root, with plenty of nut' meg, should be allowed. Besides this internal treatment, external applications are of the greatest service, as cloths moistened with the camphorated spirits, or wrung out of brandy stewed with spices, and applied warm to the belly and extremi- ties. Blisters to the legs and arms have also their good effects, and ought to be rej)eated in obstinate cases. Wearing flannel next the skin, or a bark jacket, will also prove an auxiliary. A soft flannel bandage, passed frequently, and with some degree of tightness, round the body immediately over the stomach and bowels, is found to be a very useful remedy in this complaint. In the treatment of all abdominal complaints, much attention is necessary to the nature and kind of food or nourishment taken. The food of children, with this view, should be deprived of acid as miich as possible; hence, instead of milk, animal food, in the form of beef tea, or mutton broth, is preferable. When there is an habitual disposition to purging, there is no diet superior to arrow root; and when this is not at hand, flower ba- ked in an oven till it breaks into a powder, and afterwards made up with boiled milk, is a good substitute. Tapi- oca and sago are also very nutritious. Indeed it is pro- per to alternate the food occasionally, from one kind to another, and frequently to exhibit the animal food in a solid form, when the stomach rejects fluid nourishment. The change of the wet nurse sometimes makes a ne- cessary part of the treatment; and when a child has been weaned, resuming the breast has often had the happiest effect. In many instances, a change of air alone has proved an effectual remedy, after every other means had failed. DISCHARGE FROM THE VAGINA. Infants have sometimes a discharge from the vagina, a few days after birth, resembling matter; but it is of no consequence, as it goes off of itself in a short time. 484 fVorms. Children of five or six years old are subject to a mu- cous discharge, resembling the genuine whites of adults, which will in some instances be in an excessive quanti- ty, so as to run through all their clothes. The disease readily yields to a little cooling physic, as the cathartic or absorbent and aperient mixture (see Recipe 9) and keeping the parts perfectly clean with soap-suds or lead water. When it is obstinate, balsam capivi may be given thrice a-day, and if the child is puny, the tincture of steel is a suitable remedy. WORMS. The symptoms enumerated as most commonly distin- guishing worms, are, pain and acid eructation of the stomach, variable appetite, foul tongue, fcetid breath; the belly full, hard and tense, with occasional gripings or pains in different parts of it, particularly about the navel; irregular state of the belly, heat and itchiness of the fundament, urine while and limpid, and often dis- charged with difficulty. With these symptoms are join- ed a dull appearance of the eyes, often dilation of the pupil, itchiness of the nostrils, short dry cough, slow fe- ver, vvith evening exacerbations and irregubr pulse, grinding of the teeth in sleep, Sec. However, many of the above symptoms occur in other diseases; and I believe, as was suggested to me by the learned Dr. Caldwell of Philadelphia, that worms are much oh^mr suspected to be the cause of children's complaints, than what they really are. For the cure of worms, two indications arise; first, to expel them, and secondly, to prevent their generation. The first may be effected by giving a dose of calomel at bed-time, and rhubarb the next morning to work it off. The pink-root (see Materia Medica) has long been held in high estimation as a vermifuge. It may be given in the form of tea, with milk, sweetened, for breakfast, oloserving not to continue the use of it, if it is found to effect the child's eyes. The bark of the pride of China (see Materia Medica) is much extolled of Convulsive Fits. 485 1 late, as a remedy for worms. My friend Dr. Grimes, of Savannah, says, that he considers it one of the best vermifuges Wje are acquainted with. He directs a tea to be made of the bark of this tree, and as much of it I taken during the day, as the child can bear without j producing vomiting, purging, or considerable weakness of the limbs. External applications have also been found useful for the removal of this complaint. These consist of a liniment made of equal parts of beef's gall, aloes and sweet oil or fresh butter rubbed, on the belly every night; or a plaster made of dry rue and aloes, or gall mixed up with a little turpentine and lard, and applied over the region of the belly, taking care to cover the navel with a piece of cotton. The future generation of worms will be prevented by avoiding greasy food, and by taking the rust or tinc- ture of steel thrice a-day, joined with bitters, to give tone to the bowels. CONVULSIVE FITS. The convulsions of children are generally preceded by slight symptoms of distortion of the face, as, invo- luntary laughter when asleep or awake, squinting of the eyes towards the nose, or turning them upwards, the child, at the same time, changing to a bluish colour. The fit itself is distinguished by distortions, more or less general, according to the violence of the attack. They are attended with the usual symptoms of froth, or frothy discharge from the mouth, and they are ter- minated by profound sleep, from which the child awakes unconscious of its former state. The treatment depends on the particular cause of ir- ritation. Thus when it is expected to arise from reten- tion of the meconium^ or undigested matter received into the stomach, laxatives, as castor oil, should be given as early as possible. When from teething, the protrusion of the teeth should be hastened by lancing the gums. When from retropelled eruption^ the warm J- 486 Teething, — Watery Head. bath and blisters are to be had recourse to. And whe from xvorrns, the remedies detailed in that disease are to be employed. When the cause of convulsions is unknown, throwing up a glyster, bathing the extremities in warm water, and blood-letting, if the child seems able to bear it, are the safest means during the uncertainty. The symp- toms still continuing, sinapisms should be applied to the extremities, and blisters behind the ears. An emetic of ipecacuanha or antimonial wine, is found to be an exceedingly useful remedy in this dis- ease. TEETHING. The symptoms that mark dentition are, heat and swelling of the gum, and a tendency to drivel or slaver much, with starting, and thrusting of the fingers into the mouth. Difficult teething, as a species of inflammatory disease, is to be treated as such. Bleeding with a leech or two behind the ears, or applying blisters there, or to the nape of the neck, will be found beneficial. But nothing is so effectual as scarifying the gum with a lancet, which "should be occasionally repeated, according to the ur- gency of the symptoms; for, by thus removing the cause of irritation, the effect cannot fail to cease. A moderate looseness being beneficial in teething, should rather be encouraged than checked. If costive- ness prevails, it must be removed by the occasional use of the cathartic, or absorbent and aperient mixture, (see Recipe 11); and when there is much fever, the antimo- nial solution (see Recipe 6) in very small doses, to pro- duce perspiration, should also be employed. WATERY HEAD. This disease is distinguished by pain of the head, accompanied with nausea, sickness and other disorders of the animal functions, without any evident cause, and Watery Head, 487 sudden in their attack^ variable state of pulse; constant slow fever; and in the advanced stage of the disease, dilation of the pupil of the eye, with a tendency to a comatose state. / It most frequently takes place between the age of two and ten years, and with children of a scrofulous habit. It may, however, arise from falls and blows on the head. The first stage of the disease is marked by loss of appetite, and a degree of melancholy and uneasiness, without the child being able to fix on any particular cause. Pain in the head is next felt, especially above the eyes, and in a direction betwixt the temples. In very young subjects, pain in the head is indicated by the child putting his hand often to his head, and waving it about. This pain gradually extends, and is at last felt more particularly in the arm and leg of one side. The affections of the stomach next commence, and alternate with pain and uneasiness of the head. The febrile symptoms, though pretty constant, are milder in the morning, but sufter also an evening exacerbation. Vo- miting occasionally occurs, but costiveness is a leading symptom; the tongue is a little affected, except towards the end, when it assumes a scarlet colour, and some- times becomes aphthous. As the disease advances, all the symptoms of hectic are conspicuous, and during the whole disease, the child shows a strong propensity to the bed, or a desire to avoid being moved. This disease is truly inflammatory in its commence-' ment, and can only be treated with success by the early , employment of those means which are best calculated to subdue inflammation; such as copious and repeated bleedings, the application of leeches or cups, blisters to the head and temples, and an issue behind the neck. Besides these external remedies, active purges, as calomel and jalap, must be frequently administered, and if possible a ptyulism should be produced by the use of mercury, either in the form of calomel in small doses, or by rubbing in the unction. If acid prevails, the absorbent-mixture (see Recipe 8), 488 Croups or Hives. must occasionally be given, and during the continuance of fever, the tincture of digitalis or foxglove, (see Recipe 55) will be found an auxiliary. After subduing the inflamnriatory action of the system, opium or laudanum may be employed with advantage, to relieve the spasm, or pain of the head, when is it con- siderable. In the last stage of the disease, cold bathilig and the use of tonic medicines, may be required to in- vigorate the system. CROUP, OR HIVES. This disease, which is peculiar to children, is a spe- cies of asthma, with violent catarrhal symptoms. It is most common in low marshy countries, or on the sea coast, and in wet and cold seasons. Indeed it is readily occasioned by any thing wet or damp, or which ob- structs the perspiration. There are two species of croup, the acute or inflam- matory, and the chronical or lingering. The former is attended with a very quick pulse, cough, hoarseness, and difficulty of breathing, soon after and sometimes even before the occurrence of the croak- ing noise, which is the characteristic of this disorder. As the disease increases, the pulse quickens, the heat aug- ments, and an excessive restlessness takes place. The breathing becomes more and more difficult, and labori- ous, and the peculiar wheezing sound which accom- panies it, so increases, as to be heard at a considerable distance. The symptoms continue to increase in violence, until a spasm of the muscles of the parts taking place, the patient is suffi)cated; the disease ofte« completing its course in the space of three or four days and nights. The extreme degree of danger which always accom- panies this disease, and the rapidity with which its symptoms proceed, show that-immediate remedies are requisite to arrest its progress. Therefore, on the first appearance, blood-letting, both general and topical, should be eniployed, and repeated two or three times a- Croups or Hives, 489 clay, according to the violence of the symptoms, and ha- bit of the patient. Immediately after bleeding, an emetic should be administered, and the sickness kept up for several liours or even days, by small doses of the antimo- nal solution, (see Recipe 6). Inhaling the steams of hot vinegar and water, and embrocating the throat with the volatile liniment, (see Recipe 64) have also their good effects. Besides which, the application of blisters to the throat are not to be ne- glected, if the symptoms are the least alarming. The decoction of seneka or rattle snake root, (see Materia Medica), is a valuable medicine in this dreadful complaint. It should be given at first in such doses as to excite vomiting, and afterwards in smaller doses, to keep up a nausea at the stomach, and to produce per- spiration. Onions (sec Materia Medica) are also cele- brated as a sovereign remedy. The tincture of digitalis or foxglove, (see Recipe 55) is likewise a good remedy, if employed in the early stage of the disease. Attention should always be paid to keep the bowels open by castor oil, or some aperient medicine. The most speedy and efficacious of all remedies, in this alarming disease, which has come under my notice, is calomel in very large doses. For this valuable reme- dy, I candidly acknowledge myself indebted to my ex- cellent and very learned friend, professor Davidge of Baltimore. From him, I have been emboldened to use it in des- perate cases, in doses from thirty to sixty grains, to children. On my own daughter, only four years old, and apparently in the very act of suffocation, I used it in the dose of at least sixty grains. The cure was al- most instantaneous. Among other instances of cure as surprising, was one in the infant of my amiable friend, Mrs. Chalmers, lady of the Rev. Mr. Chalmers, of Washington. The dose was forty grains. The cure was so immediate, that the over-joyed parerit insisted I would instruct her in the remedy, for fear, on the next attack, I might not be in the way to prescribe. On 3Q 490 Hooping' Cough. learning I had given her infant, not more than between thret- and four years old, forty grains of calomel, she was excessively frightened, and exclaimed, " you have killed my child!" and indeed she could hardly be per- suaded for some time, though her eyes told her the con- trary, that I had not Jailed her child. So powerful is the effect of this medicine, that it sud- denly removes the dibcase without having recourse to other means. It acts on the stomach, bowels and skin. In cases not very alarming, I have given calomel in smaller d(5ses, conjoined with ipecacuanha, with good e fleets. The flaxseed syrup is peculiarly beneficial in all dis- eases attended with cough, and therefore should not be omitted in this. To prevent a relapse, and to restore the strength of the patient, it will be proper, at the close of this complaint, to give bark in any form* which is most agreeable and convenient. • The latter, or chronical croup, is produced by spasm, and unaccompanied with fever. A most important re- medy in this species, if early used, is the warm bath, immedialeiy followed by a glister, to which some of the juice of raw onioHs may be added. A tea-spoonful or two of the juice may also be given by the mouth. If the symptoms do not yield to this treatment, an emetic should be administered, and after its operation, a dose of laudanum will be proper. Some children are troubled with this complaint for several years, and then seem to out-grow it. A flannel shirt, light diet, cold bath, change of air, gentle exercise, and whatever strengthens the body, are the best pre- ventives. HOOPING-COUGH, Is a contagious disease, attacking in paroxysms of a convulsive suffocating cough, with a loud noise or hoop at each respiration, and generally terminating by vomit- ing. It is clearly the effect of a specific contagion, of a peculiar nature, and highly active, affecting, like the. small-pox and measles, but once in life. Hooping- Cough, 491 The treatment of this disease must be regulated by the degree of fever and spasm. When the fever is con- siderable, bleeding becomes clearly indicated, as well as blisters over the breast, and the use of laxative me- dicines, together with such as may determine to the sur- face; of which class, the decoction of rattle- snake root, (see Materia Medica) or the antimonial solution, (see Recipe 6) are to be preferred. When the spasmodic state is most predominant, and the symptoms of fever mild, errctics will be highly use- ful, followed by a dose of the anodyne sudorific drops, (see Recipe 17) at bed-time. If a free use of the flax- seed syrup is not sufficient to allay the cough, laudanum, or paregoric, when fever does not forbid, may be given with the greatest advantage. • In this tiresome disease, I have foimd no remedy, when there is little or no fever, superior to this mix- ture*, given three or four times a-day, in syrup or tea; commencing with small doses, and gradually increasing them until a slight strangury is excited. The strangury usually comes on about the third day, and the hooping- cough seldom continues longer than a few days after- wards. A grain of assafoetida, administered four or five times a-day, proves oftentimes a very useful remedy in cases of hooping-cough. When the disease is recurrent,' and returns some time after its apparent departure, as it frequently does upon taking cold, an emetic, a dose or two of castor oil, and the anodyne sudorific drops, (see Recipe 17) laudanum, or paregoric at bed-time, as the symptoms may indicate, will quickly remove it. A milk and vegetalDle diet is peculiaVly proper in this complaint; and when the pa- tient is debilitated, a change of air and tonic medicines, as the bark of columbo, will be found necessary. * Take of Tincture of bark, one ounce and a half, Paregoric, half an ounce, Tincture of cantharides, one drachm, Mix. 492 RICKETS, J Consist in an enlargement of the head, belly, and joints, flattened ribs, and general emaciation, with a bloated or florid countenance. This disorder generally takes place from six months to two years of age, and arises either from unhealthy parents, or from the chil- dren being improperly nursed, kept wet, dirty, in a close damp air, without due exercise. VVeakness and relaxation being the cause of this com- plaint, its remedy must of course be to promote diges- tion, and to brace and strengthen the solids. Hence a nutritious and cordial diet, with exercise in the country air, is indispensable. Along with this, the cold- bath and tonic medicines, as bark, columbo, and steel, to warm and invigorate the constitution, are peculiarly proper; but they should not be entered upon, without previous purging with calomel and jalap. The tincture of rhubarb (see Recipe 52) should also be occasionally employed, to keep the bowels in a regular state. How- ever, nothing will be found more eftectual in recover^- ing the patient, than a generous diet, and cold bathing, particularly in salt water. Sea-bathing constitutes, per- haps, the most promising remedy in this disease. MATERIA MEDICA, ' **HOW wonderful are thy works/O Lord! in wis- dom hast ihoa made them all; the earth is full of thy riches.'* Ill all parts of these his Glorious Works, in their admirable fitness to one another, and their constant sub- ■ serviency to the goodoi all, we behold the Wisdom and I Goodness of the Great Creator. I But in no department of his works do these traits of mingled wisdom and goodness^ shine with greater lustre than in the vegetable kingdom. There is scarcely a plant that greens the field, a flower that gems the pasture, a shrub that tufts the garden, or a tree that shades the earth, that does not contain certain medicinal virtues, to remove our pains, and to heal our diseases. The American continent, though the last found, is not the least favoured of God in this respect. Embra- cing almost every clime and soil of the globe, it richly abounds with drugs of every healing quality. The common saying, that every country/ contains the j best cures for its own diseases, seems fully verified in America. Here, above all countries, is the ague, and here, exclusively, is the grand cure, the Peruvian bark i tree, or dogwood. And here too, exclusively, is found ' the Spanish- fly, the tobacco, the Jamestown weed^ the pink and snake roots, besides those other valuable plants, equal to the ipecacuanha, rhubarb, jalap, &c. &c. which have hitherto been imported at a great expence, though not always genuine; but which may now be obtained in j our own fields and woods, both unadulterated and ' cheap. 494 Materia Medica. \ Worthy of the high character of Americans, many ■ gentlemen of the finest genius among us, have explored the medical treasures of our own country, and have shown an eagerness to make known the precious means to preserve the health and lives of our citizens. First on the list of this noble band of philanthropists, stands that bright constellation of all literary and professional genius, the late professor Barton, from whose "Collections TOWARDS A Materia Medica of the United States," much valuable matter ha^s been selected. If by the laws of Rome, "a civic crown was adjudged to the man who saved the life of a single citizen," what eulogy is sufficiently great to be attached to the memo- ry of him, who, besides illuminating several other walks of ornamental and useful knowledge, has by investiga- ting the virtues of our native vegetables, laid the found- ation whereby millions of our worthy citizens may be rescued frorp an untimely death. Next comes professor Chapman, who, if possible, with greater ardour has been bending the forces of his powerful mind to the same all-important researches. The meed of highest gratitude is due also to profes- sors Hosack, Dexter, Mitchell, and to Doctors Mease, Cutler and Thatcher; to colonels Hamilton, Bird, &c. From the valuable discoveries and communications of these gentlemen, I have, with great industry and care, compiled an American Materia Medica, exhibit- ing, in alphabetical order, the nameSy characters, and qualities of our best medicinal plants hitherto discovered, together with the diseases they suit, and their proper doses, and forms of administration; the whole stripped of technical terms, and making, as I humbly hope, one of the most complete systems for family use now extant. Materia Medica, 495 AGARIC. See Touchwood. AGRIMONY. Agrimoniay Grows two or three feet high, m hedges and the mar- gins of fields — blossoms in July on long spikes, yellow. It is known by the vulgar name of cuckold^ from the seeds sticking to the clothes in the fall of the year. In whey or tea it forms a good drink in fevers. The juice of this plant, or a strong infusion of the roots, two handfuls to a quart of boiling water, and sweetened with honey, is an excellent medicine in the jaundice, scurvy, and habitual diarrhoea or looseness. Dose of the infusion half a pint; of the juice a wine-glassful three times a day. The herb has been applied externally to fresh wounds. ALDER, BLACK. Alnus Nigra^ Sometimes called Virginia winterberry, grows in moist places, generally sending up several slender stalks to the height of ten feet, and bears a red berry. The bark is tonic, and accordingly is used in sub- stance, or in strong decoction, like the Peruvian bark, in intcrmittents, and other cases of debility, as dropsy, gangrene, Sec. The inner bark in the shape of poultice externally, with the decoction internally, a handful or two boiled slowly in three pints of water to a quart, is celebrated both by professor Barto|i and Dr. Mease, as of admirable use in arresting the progress of morti- fication. A strong decoction of the berries formed into a syrup with molasses in dose of a wine-glassful, or two tea- spoonfuls of the powder of the inner bark, is said to be a good purge. ALEXANDER. See Parsley, wild. 496 Alateria Medica, ALUM ROOT. Heuchera Americana, Called also American Sanicle. The root is a very in- t:^nse astringent. It is the basis of a powder which has lately acquired some reputation in the cure of cancer. Professor Barton observes that he does not believe that the alum root has cured genuine cancer, but that it has proved very beneficial in obstinate ulcers, which have been mistaken for cancers. He says it is one of the ar- ticles in the Materia Medica of our Indians, the powder- ed root of which they apply to wounds, ulcers, and cancers. ANGELICA. Angelica, Grows in marshy woods and hedges, flowering in June and July. It is frequently cultivated in our gar- dens. Every part of this useful vegetable partakes of its aro- matic virtues, but especially the root, which in the form of powder, tincture or tea, is useful in flatulent colics. Conjoined with dogwood bark, or any other tonic, it may, like the Peruvian bark, be employed with ad- vantage in intermittents and low stages of fever. The dose, one tea-spoonful, in substance, of the former to two of the latter. It may also be employed in the form of strong decoction, in doses of a gill, or in cold phleg- matic habits, in tincture, either alone, or with dogwood berries, centaury, lemon peel, or any other articles of the bitter and tonic class. A strong decoction of the root, combined with red oak bark, a large handful of each to a pint of boiling water, makes an admirable gar- gk for relaxed and spongy gums, and ulcerated sore throats. APPLE, PERU. See T/iom Apple. Materia Medica. 497 ARBUTUS. See Bearherry. ARROW ROOT. Maranta Arundinacea, Is cultivated in the southern states. A table-spoon- ful makes a pint of the finest jelly in nature, which af- fords the most nutritious food in acute diseases for children. To persons labouring under bowel complaints^ as diarrhoea and dysentery, it is of itself a remedy. The jelly is made in the following manner — To a table-spoonful of the powdered root, add as much cold water as will make it into a thin paste, and then pour on boiling water through the spout of a kettle, stirring it at the same time briskly, till it becomes a clear jelly; after which season it with sugar and nutmeg, and to render it still more palatable, a little wine or lemon juice may be added. But to children, blending it With new milk is best. ASARABACCA SWAMP. Asarum, Grows in low grounds. It has but two leaves, which rise immediately from the root, and divide from one stem. The flowers are purple and bell shaped, and proceed from between the leaves. The whole of this plant has a nauseous bitter taste. The root, from a half, to a table-spoonful in powder, operates both upwards and downwards. In the form of infusion, a half handful to a quart of boiling w^ater, it is said to be serviceable in the hooping-cough, in doses of a table- spoonful to children every half hour, or oftener, until it vomits; and in doses of a tea-cupful three times a-day, it has been used with success to pro- mote the menses, or courses, 3R 498 Materia Medica, AVENS COMMON. Geum Urbanurriy Grows a foot high by fences and borders of fields. The blobboms are white or yellowish in Jtily. Its smell resembles that of cloves. A strong linccure of the root, two handfuls steeped in a qiiar^ of spirifs, given to the quantity of half a wine- glassiul, or the powder, in dohes of a tea-spoonful, se- veral times a-day, has afforded an excellent remedy in intermittents and other disorders where strengthening medicines are requisite. It is said to be equal to the Peruvian bark. There is another variety of this plant, called water avens, throat root, cure-all, which is to be found in boggy meadows. The blossoms are purplish, and ap- pear in May. Its properties are the same as the prece- ding. A decoction of it has been found beneficial as a gargle in ul erated sore throats, which probably gave rise to the name of throat root^ or throat wort. BACK-ACH BRAKE. See Fern Female, BALM. Melissa Officmalis^ |j| Makes an excellent tea in fevers, and when sweeten- ed, and aciduiaied with the juice of lemons or cream of tartar, forms a most grateful beverage. BARBERRY. Berberis Vulgaris^ Grows along the sides of roads, in hedges; — leaves oblong, tender, and subject to the rust; the flowers are Materia Medica. 499 in clusters; the fruit oblong and acid; the stem is de- fended by three thorns. A double handful of the berries boiled in three quarts of water to two, and given in doses of a tea-cupful four or five times a-day, sweetened with white sugar, is ex- tolled as a remedy in diarrhoea, dysentery and jaundice. BASTARD IPECACUANHA. Ipecacuanha American. BAYBERRY. Myr'ica Cerifera Humilis, Called also Dwarf Candleberry Myrtle, grows in swamps to the height of two or three feet, and bears nu- merous green berries, of which tallow is made. The bark of the root has been considered a good re- medy for the jaundice. The powder of it, in doses of twenty or thirty grains, has been employed as a mild emetic. The inner bark, in poultice, applied morning and evening to scrophulous swellings, and drinking a tea-cupful of a strong infusion of the leaves, is said to have wrought surprising cures in a fe^v weeks. BEARBERRY. Arbutus Uva Ursty Bears whortleberry — wild cranberry. Is a low ever- green shrub, somewhat resembling the myrtle. The leaves have a bitter astringent taste, and unques- tionably possess great medicinal virtues, especially in relieving the irritation of the stone, gravel, and old cases of gonorrhoea, menstrual discharges, also catarrhs and consumptions. The dose — half a pint twice or thrice a-day of a de- coction made of the leaves, a handful to a pint, or a tea- spoonful in substance, two or three times a-day. 500 Materia Medica, BEECH DROPS. See Broomrape Virginia. BENNE. Sesamum Orientate^ Is now cultivated in South Carolina and Georgia. The leaves by infusion afford an excellent mucilaginous drink, which is ui>ed with manifest advantage in dysen- tery, diarrhoea, and cholera infantum. The seeds yield a pure and pleasant oil, which in doses from one to two wine-glassfuls, acts well on the bowels. It is now generally used at the tables of the wealthy, and from the specimen I had of it at the table of my honourable friend, governor Milledge, near Au- gusta, I consider it equal to the best Florence or salad oil. BETH ROOT. Trillium Rhumhoydum^ Grow in meadows about a foot high — the leaves oval, three at the top of each statk, one flower of a purple co- lour, bell-shaped, producing a small berry, that contains the seed — the root of a brown colour externally, bulb- ous and full of small fibres. The powder of the root in doses of one tea-spoonful three or four times a-day, is said to be exceedingly use- ful in spitting of blood, immoderate discharge of the menses, or in cases of discharging bloody urine. It is also said to be a good application, in the form of poul- tice, to putrid ulcers, and to obviate gangrene or morti- fication. BIND WEED. See Potatoe, Wild. BITTER-SWEET. See Nightshade, Woody. Materia Medica. 501 BLACKBERRY, OR DEWBERRY. These, though different in name, are nearly, if not entirely, the same in nature. They both bear the same kind of berry, which, when ripe, is pleasant and whole- some. The roots of these vines, but especially of the dew- berry, are famous as astringents. From my own obser- vation in practice, two handfuls of the clear roots in three pints of milk or water boiled to a quart, and given in doses of a tea-cupful every two or three hours, has often cured obstinate diarrhoea and dysentery, when the best medicines of the shop had failed. BLACK SNAKE ROOT. See Virginia Snake root. BLAZING STAR. See Devil's Bit. BLOOD ROOT. Sanguinaria Canadensis^ Has a variety of names, as Red Root, Puccoon, In- dian Paint, Turmeric. It grows about a foot high in rich woodlands, and flowers in April. The leaves are roundish and deeply indented, somewhat like the white oak leaves — stems naked, supporting single flowers; blossoms white. When the fresh root, which is about the size of the litde finger, and blood red, is broken, a juice issues in large drops resembling blood. According to Dr. Dovvnie, the root in powder from twenty to thirty grains, is strongly emetic. Professor Barton considers it nearly equal to the seneca or rattle- snake root in cases of ulcerous sore throats, croup and hives, aiid other similar affections. Professor Dexter Celebrates it in doses of one grain of the powdered root, or ten drops of the tincture, every two or three hours, as an excellent diaphoretic in colds, pleurisies, and other inflammatory complaints. 502 Materia Medica, A tincture may be prepared by steeping a handful of the root sliced in half a pint of spirits. It may also be exhibited in the form of decoction, a handful to a quart of boiling water, and a table-spoonful for a dose every two or three hours. The blood root is considered the chief ingredient of the quack medicine known by the name of Rawson's biuers, recommended as a remedy for the jaundice. The juice of the root is said to be good for destroying warts. BLOODWORT STRIPED. Lapathum Sanguineum Rubrum^ Grows six or seven inches high, on the sides of banks, and in upland woods. Out of the top of the stalk, which is small and bare of leaves, grow small purple flowers, which turn into husks thai contain the seed. The leaves, three or four in number, lie flat upon the ground, are hairy, and full of red winding veins; the root small, tough and fibrous. An infusion of this plant, a handful to a quart of boil- ing water, in dose of a tea-cupful every three hours, is said to be useful in restraining immoderate flowing of the menses, and all other hemorrhages. A strong decoction of the roots with half the quantity of sugar or honey, and formed into a syrup in dose of a table-spoonful every hour or two, is beneficial in consumptions or vio- lent coughs. The expressed juice, in dose of a wine- glassful, and the leaves bruised, and frequently applied to the wound from a snake, or any venomous insect, is said to eradicate the poison. BLUE CARDINAL FLOWERSu See Lobelia. BONESET. See Thoroughwort. BOWMAN'S ROOT. See Indian Physic. , Materia Medica. 503 BOXWOOD. See Dogwood, BROOMRAPE, VIRGINIA. Orobanche Virginiana^ Grows from Canada to Georgia, and rises six or eight inches high, of a brown colour, brittle sprigs, but no leaves; the root is bulbous. It is generally found under the shade of the American beech tree; hence it is some- times called beech drops, but more generally cancer root. Every part of this plant is considerably astringent, and along with the astringency, especially in the recent plant, there is combined a peculiar and extremely nauseous bit- terness. It has been celebrated as a remedy in dysen- tery, but its principal reputation is in cancerous af- fections. It is supposed this formed a part of the cele- brated cancer-powder of Dr. Hugh Martin, whose success in the management of many cases of this dreadful disease, has been acknowledged by the regular practi- tioners of Philadelphia. It is certain, says professor Barton, that the powder of cancer root has been of great service externally ap- plit^d to obstinate ulcers, some of which had resisted all the ordinary applications. The fresh bruised root has also been applied with good effects to cancerous sores. In the form of decoction it has been found useful as a wash to gallings in warm weather, or excoriating of the skin. It is also esteemed a good application in cases of St. Anthony's fire. BUCK THORN. Spina Cervinoy Grows in hedges. It is a prickly bush, which flowers in June, and produces in the fall a round black berry containing four seeds. 504 Materia Medica. Equal parts of the expressed juice of the berries and molasses, or half the quantity of sugar, with a little ca- limus or ginger, formed into a syrup by a gentle fire, is said to be a good purgative medicine in doses of a large wine-glassful, and is much used in the cure of dropsies. BURDOCK. Arctium Lappa^ Grows on the road side, on rubbish and ditch banks, bearing purplish blossoms in July and August. The juice of the fresh leaves, or an infusion or decoc- tion of the roots, operates gently on the bowels, sweetens the blood, promotes sweat and urine, and is esteemed serviceable in scorbutic, rheumatic, and venereal disor- ders. The juice is given in doses of a wine-glassful, and the decoction half a pint three times a day. BURNET SAXIFRAGE. Phnpinella^ Grows about a foot high. The leaves are variously shaped; flowers in September; the seeds are furred and egg-shaped. The root, in the form of decoction, a handful to a quart of water, is esteemed by some a useful medicine in asthma, coughs, and obstructions of the menses, in dose of a wine-glassful twice or thrice a day sweetened. BUTTERFLY WEED. See Pleurisy Root. BUTTERNUT. See Walnut, White. BUTTON SNAKE ROOT. " The button snake root grows in South Carolina and Georgia, in poor pine land; the root bulbous, with Materia MecUca, 505 nuinerous fibres, of a pungent nitrous taste; the leaves or blades long, narrow, pointed and saw-edged. A stalk shoots up in autumn, to the height of three feet, bearing globular prickly flowers, of an ash colour, which, from a fancied resemblance to buttons of an old fa- shion, gives its name. " This root is a powerful sudorific; but in cases of gan- grene and foul ulcers, is perhaps superior to any thing yet discovered. The mode of applying it, is in the form of poultice by boiling it soft."* * For the above I am indebted to my very honest, but unfortimately to'o credulous friend, Paul Hamilton, Esq. formerly secretary of the navy, whose zeal and success in explorinc; the virtues of our indig-enous ])lants can nevei be sufhciently applauded. For these and many other patriotic virtues, a kind Providence was pleased to raise him up a son as disinterested and pubr lie spirited as himself; I mean that extraordinary youth, lieutenant Archibald Hamilton, who, in defence of his country, went forth in the early period of life to meet the veteran tai"s of Great Britain. He w as a midshipman on board th.e United States frig-ate, when after a short action she captured tlie British frig-ate Macedonian. His activity and valour in that briUiant affair were so conspicuous, thattlie g-allant Decatur assig'ned to him the honourable and pleasing duty of bearing- the British colours to the seat of government. With uncommonly good fortune he arrived at Wash- ington on the very evening that the president and his lady, with the heads of departments, at a splendid ball were celebrating this glorious victor^^ I had the pleasure to be one of the party; and never shall I forget the looks of his venerable father, his most amiable mother, and charming sisters, when this blooming young warrior was ushered into the crowded ball room, with the trophies of American valour. The joy manifested on this occasion was not confined to his relations alone; for it w\astobe seen in the countenance of every one present, but more especially in the young females, who, as was very natural to suppose, from his unassuming and graceful deportment, could not conceal the tender emotions of their hearts. To the lionour of the president, this modest and amiable youth was soon after promoted to a lieutenancy. He followed the fortunes of commo- dore Decatur, when he shifted his llag from the United States to the Pre- sident; and was with this intrepid officer when in that single frigate he en- deavoured to fight his way through a British squadron. In this most unequal conflict the President was overpowered, but not until she had completely silenced one of the hostile f.-igates. By the last shot that was fired from the enemy, the gallant young Hamilton was killed. To say he was brave to the height of tJiat heroism which has raised the In- fant navy of his country to be the admiration of the world, is to sav but half his praise. The far nobler j)ralse was ]»is, of having rendered himself the idol of his brother oilkers, and his numerous relations and friends— to all of whom he has bequeathed the inexpressible pleasure of attachiug to his me- mory everything that w&s amiable and good. 3 S 506 Materia Medica. CALICO TREE. Kalmta Latifoliay Broad leaved laurel, called also winter-green; grows seven or eight feet high in swamps and moist rocky pas- tures; blossoms ^re white, tinged with red in June or July. There is another species, Kalmia Augustifolia^ narrow leaved or dwarf laurel, called also ivy, lambkill; blossoms reddish, variegated. A decoction of the plant externally applied, has often cured the itch; but like all other poisons it should be used with great caution. An ointment, made by sim- mering the leaves in hog's lard, is good for the scald head and obstinate sores. According to Dr. George G. Thomas, an obstinate diarrhoea has been cured, by a decoction made from an ounce of the leaves in half a pint of water, boiled to half, and thirty drops three or four times a-day. In this form it has also been used internally with great success in the scald head. CALIMUS, OR SWEET FLAG. Acorus CalimicSy Grows in marshy situations, and in shallow water, and may be known by the long sword- shaped leaves, re- sembling those of the blue and yellow flags, but narrow- er, and of a brighter green. The root is like that of the blue flag in appearance, but has a strong aromatic smell, and a warm pungent taste. The flavor is greatly im- proved by drying. The root possesses stomachic virtues, and is frequent- 1}' grated into water, and given to children for flatulent colics, free of fever. It is sometimes used as an ingre- dient with dogwood, cherry bark, centatiry, &c. in morn- ing bitters, as a preventive of the ague in low marshy situations. CANCER ROOT. See Broomrape Virginia, Materia Medina, 507 CANDLE-BERRY MYRTLE. See Bayherry. CARAWAY. Carwn Carui^ A. choice aromatic — grows kindly in our gardens. The seeds assist digestion, strengthen the stomach, and are serviceable in flatulent colics. The dose of the seeds in powder, from one to two tea-^oonfuls to adults. CARROT, WILD. Daucus Carota* The wild carrot grows two or three feet high in mea- dows and swamps, and flowers in July. The seeds have an agreeable aromatic smell, and in a slight degree, a warm pungent taste. An ounce or half a handful of the seeds infused in a pint of water, and taken in doses of a tea-cupful every hour or two, is said to give immediate relief in suppres- sion of urine, and is also serviceable in promoting the menses. The roots of the carrot cultivated in our gardens, beaten to a pulp, form an excellent application to can- cerous and other ill-conditioned ulcers, allaying the pain, checking the suppuration, and foetid smell, and soften- ing the callous edges. A marmalade of carrots, on ac- count of their strong antiseptic qualities, has been suc- cessfully used for preventing and curing the sea scurvy. An infusion of these roots has also been found useful in gravel complaints. CASTOR OIL. Ricinus Communis^ Flourishes well among us. The kernels yield al- most a fourth part of their weight in oil, which is ob- 5.08 Materia Medic a. tained from them either by expression or decoction. Ex- pression is the best method of preparing; but the com- mon mode is to shell the seeds, and boil them in water, and as the oil rises, to skim it olF..^ Castor oil is a gentle and useful purgative, and is a most efficacious remedy for the colic or dry belly- ach, and also dysenteries, in doses of a wine-glassful every two or three hours until it operates. In doses of a tea- spoonful, it is the most suitable purge, when not rancid, to expel the meconium from new-born infants. CAT-GUT, OR GOAT'S RUE. Galega Virgzniana. It is vulgarly called cat- gut, from the resemblance of some of its roots to the article of that name. A decoction of the roots is reputed to be an excellent medicine for destroying w^orms. CELANDINE, THE GREATER. Chelidonium^ Major ^ Grows about two feet high in meadows, and by run- ning brooks, has many stalks, with large? joints than is common in other plants, very easily broken; the leaves large and saw-edged; the flowers, consisting of four leaves, are yellow; after which come long pods, enclosing black seeds; the roots long, reddish exter- nally, and yellow within, and full of yellow juice. Twenty or thirty drops of the juice, or half a tea- spoonful of the dried root in powder, in a cup of new milk, morning and night, is said to be beneficial in dropsy, green sickness, and cutaneous eruptions. The juice rubbed on warts, ring and tetter worms, effectually cures them. A poultice made of this plant boiled in milk, or the roots roasted, and mashed in vinegar, is extolled by some as an excellent application to disperse §crophulous tumours on the neck. Materia Medic'a, 5®9 CENTAURY. Centaurhim Minor, Is a fine stomachic bitter; and either in a simple infu- fusion, or united with calimus or angehca root, is excel- lent in relaxations of the stomach and general debility. CAMOMILE. Chmncemelwn^ Grows well in our gardens. An infusion, or tea, made of the flowers, is excellent to warm and strengthen the tl^e stomach in cases of indigestion, loss of appetite, and and other complaints arising from debility. It is also of great use in doses of a tea- cupful three times a day, as a preventive to the ague and fever, and bilious fever, in sickly situations. In the form of fomentation and poultice it is serviceable in discussing hard tumours. ' CAMOMILE, WILD. See Mayweed. CHERRY TREE, WILD. Prunus Cerasus Virginiana. The bark of this tree is an excellent substitute for the Peruvian bark. I have myself frequently employed it in the cure of ague and fever, biliousfever, and other dis- eases where tonic medicines were proper. In intermit- tents of long standing, I have found it more efficacious when united with the Virginia snake root, in the propor- tion of one part of the latter to four of the former. It may be employed either in powder or decoction in the same doses as the Peruvian bark. A strong infusion of it in sound cider, is said to be useful in the jaun- dice. A decoction of the bark will be found a good wash to ill-conditioned ulcers. The cherry of the tree when ripe in autumn, is much used in the southern 510 Materia Medica, states for making bounce and cordial. The gum of the common cherry tree, is a good substitute for the gum arabic. CHICK-WEED, RED. Annagallis Phenicea, Called also red pimpernel, guaclvhul. Is cultivated in many gardens, and grows spontaneously near Balti- more and Havre de Grace. According to the deposition of Valentine Kettiring to the legislature of Pennsylvania, and report made by their committee, the red chick-weed is a specific in that most dreadful of all diseases, the hydrophobia, or bite of a mad dog. The dose for an adult is a small table-spoon- ful of the dried leaves in powder. For beasts the dose is much larger. CINQUEFOIL. Potentilla Reptatiss^ Grows on pasture grounds, and is something similar to strawberry. The stalks trail along the ground, and' have but five leaves on each stalk, placed together, of unequal size, and bear a yellow flower. The whole of the plant, particularly the root, in the form of decoction, a handful to a quart of water, or milk, boiled slowljr, and sweetened with loaf sugar, is recommended as a remedy for the dysentery and bowel complaints. The dose for adults is a tea-cupful three or four times a day, and one third or half the quantity for children. CLEAVERS. See Goose Grass. COAKUM. See Pokexveed. Materia Medica, 511 COCK-UP-HAT, OR YAU WEED. Stillingta^ Grows on the high dry lands of the southern states, and is much used there as a cathartic medicine. It is employed in the cure of that hideous disease, the yaws, and is said to be a specific in the venereal disease. COHUSH, OR PAPOOSE ROOT. Caulophyllum Thalictroides, Grows about two feet high, in low moist rich grounds near running streams, and on islands that have been overflowed. The leaves grow on small stalks near the top of the stem, which resembles the hand and fingers. The flowers are of a pale blue colour, which yield a berry something like grapes. The root is composed of many fibres, and is crooked, resembling the rattle snake root. An infusion of the root, a handful to a quart of boil- ing water, in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a day, or the same quantity steeped in a quart of spirits, in doses of a wine-glassful twice or thrice a-day, is highly extolled by the country people as a remedy for the rheumatism, and serviceable in cases of obstruction of the menses and dropsical complaints. COLT'S FOOT. Tussilago Farfara^ Grows about eight inches high, in moist situations, producing yellow flowers early in the spring, which ap- pear before the leaves. These are soon succeeded by large roundish leaves, which have a bitterish mucilagi- nous taste. It is said a decoction of the leaves and flowers, two handfuls to a quart of water, with or without milk; 512 Materia Medica, taken freely, is serviceable in coughs, consumptions, diarrhoeas and dropsical complaints. The leaves powder- ed fine, and used as snufF, removes giddiness and ob- structions of the head. COLUMBO AMERICAN. Cohimba Americana^ Grows plentifully in the western country, in the vi- cinity of the Ohio river, and from abundant experi- ments, is found fully equal to the imported. Columbo root has long been esteemed a powerful antiseptic and tonic, and as such, has been employed with manifest advantage in gangrene, cholera morbus, bilious vomit- ing, or purging, bilious fever, indigestion, want of ap- petite, &c. It may be given in powder in doses of a small tea -spoonful every three or four hours; or in de- coction in doses of a tea-cupful. Two or three ounces of the root steeped in a quart of spirit, form an excel- lent bitter, which, when taken in mint- water, or infusion of orange-peel, in doses of a table-spoonful, is excellent fcr moderating the retching in pregnant women, COMFREY. Consolida^ Grows about two feet high in moist situations near springs, but is cultivated in our gardens. The leaves are large, similar to water dock, flowers of a pale blue colour; the roots long, rather thicker than a man's fin- ger, mucilaginous, and black externally, but white within. A liandful of the roots boiled in milk, and given in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a-day, is a po- pular remedy in dysentery, bowel complaints, and the fluor albus or whites. It is also beneficial as a diet drink in the clap, or in other cases attended with a burning heat in making water. Materia Medica. 513 CORIANDER. Coriandrum^ i Is cultivated in our gardens. The seeds are warm, and of a pleasant flavour, and in doses from a tea, to a table-spoonful, have been found useful in cases of indi- I gestion, and flatulence. When mixed with senna, they \ more effectually correct the odour and taste of the infu- j sion, than any other aromatic. They also form an ex- I cellent addition to ingredients for bitters. COW PARSNIP. Heracleum Sphondylium^ Is found in hedges, meadows and pastures; but should be carefully distinguished from the hemlock or wild parsnip that grows in hedges, and is poisonous. According to Dr. Orne of Salem, it has been often used with success in epilepsy, especially in cases of in- digestion with flatulence. The dose is three drachms of the powdered root, taken daily, and a strong infusion of the leaves and tops drank at bed time. CRANE'S BILL. Geranium 31acidatum^ Improperly called by some crow foot. It grows five or six inches high in meadows and woods; has long slender stalks, with seven long narrow leaves at a joint? The root is generally crooktd and knotted, blackibh on the outside and reddish; has a rough taste, with an aro- matic flavour. When applied externally, it is highly extolled for its styptic power, in stopping hemorrhages of wounded vessels. The powdered root in dose of a tea-spoonful thrice or four times a-day, or a decoction in milk, used as a common drink, is said to be excellent in checking 3 T 514 Materia Medica, immoderate menstrual discharges, also the whites and gleets, and obstinate diarrhoea. The following account of the efficacy of crane's bill, as stated by Dr. Mease in the Medical Museum, de- serves the attention of the reader: The son of Mr. David Cooper near Woodbury, partially divided the artery at the wrist with the point of a hatchet in trimming a tree; the wound bled pro- fusely, and an aneurismatic tumour of the size of a pul- let's egg was quickly formed. Dr. Hendry, who was immediately called, applied a tourniquet, and also a piece of flat lead to the tumour; and apprehending that the usual operation would be necessary, requested the assistance of Dr. Wm. Shippen from Philadelphia. On the arrival of that gentleman, the operation was resolv- ed on; when the father of the young man insisted upon the trial of a vegetable remedy, which he said he had learned the use of from one of the aborigines of our country. He immediately repaired to the .woods, and returned with some of the specific, which was pounded in a mortar with a little cold water, and applied to the part, and in a short time, to the great satisfaction of the sufferer and his friends, checked the bleeding. The tourniquet was left on as a precautionary measure, but fortunately no occasion offered for using it. In the course of a few days the wound healed, and the young man had no further trouble. A man in pruning a tree, divided the stout muscles of the fore- arm in an oblique direction: the wound was full four inches in length, and bled profusely from a large artery and numerous smaller vessels. His shirt sleeve was filled with blood; for being made tight round his wrist and fore-arm, it prevented the blood from escaping, and forming a coagulum round the bleeding orifice, checked for a short time a further effusion. The powerful effects produced by the geranium in the former case, induced Dr. Hendry to apply it in the present; accordingly he procured some of the roots, and after washing and pounding them, filled the wound therewith: the effect upon the smaller vessels was al- most instantaneous in checking the profusion of their Materia Medica. 515 contents, and the bleeding in a short time entirely ceas- ed; and although, as in the former case, the tourniquet was very properly suflfered to remain, yet no occasion offered for using it. Another case occurred of a wound in the ancle from a scythe, which had bled so profusely as to cause the man to faint; but on the application of the geranium by Dr. Hendry as above, it ceased in a short time. In the instance of a violent vomiting of blood, which had resisted a variety of remedies, an infusion of the plant in water, produced the desired effect in a few minutes. Another instance mentioned to me by Dr. H. of the astringent effects of the geranium, was that of a young man who had a most obstinate hemorrhage from the socket of a jaw-tooth, which had been extracted. An attempt was made by a physician from Philadelphia to close the bleeding orifice by burning it with a red hot needle, but without effect; on the application, how- ever, of the geranium, the bleeding soon ceased. In consequence of the virtues of the geranium having been so often experienced about Woodbury in cases of he- morrhage, the inhabitants have been induced to cultivate the plant in their gardens; and it would be well if their example were followed by every one in the coun- try; for though Providence has diffused the valuable plant over every part of our country, yet as it grows principally in the woods, and the accident it is intended to relieve may admit of no delay, and often happens in winter when the plant cannot be found, it should be transferred to every garden, that it may be at hand when wanted. CROSSWORT. See Thoroughwort. CROW FOOT. Ranunculus Bulbosus* A very acrid plant, growing in meadows and fields. The leaves or roots bruised, and applied to any part 516 Materia Medica. of the body, will soon raise a blister, and ought to be used when the Spanish flies cannot be obtained. The roots colltcted in the fall, may be very well preserved through the winter, by burying them in some fine dry sand. CUCKOLD. See Agrimony. CUCKOW BREAD. See the following. CUCKOW PINT. Arum Maculatum^ Also called lords and ladies, wake robbin, dragon root. The leaves are generally bespangled with black and white spots, and striped in gaudy style; whence the country people have given it the name of lords and ladies. The root is bulbous, resembling a small turnip. Both this and the leaves in a fresh state, are extreme- ly acrid, and have been used with advantage exter- nally for blistering, and internally in cachexies, rheu- matisms, and all other complaints of cold phlegmatic habits. Of the fresh root, from ten to thirty grains may be taken thrice a day, in the form of emulsion, with gum arabic, or cherry-tree gum. The root, which should be used fresh, may be kept so for a year, by burying it in a cellar in sand. CUCUMBER ROOT. Medeola Virginica. According to professor Barton, it is a very common plant. The root is while, and tastes a good deal like the cucumber. It possesses diuretic properties, and has cured dropsies. Materia Medica. 517 CURE-ALL. See Averts. CURRANTS. The white, red, and black currants, all grow luxuri- antly in our gardens, and when perfectly ripe, and made with sugar and water, into the form of lemonade, serve as a most grateful and cooling drink in fevers. An infusion of the bark, sweetened with currant jelly, or honey, is an excellent gargle in sore throat, and an in- fusion of the young shoots is said to be beneficial in erup- tive fevers. Currants afford an excellent wine, for making which, the following is an admirable recipe. Of red or white currants ripe take fourteen pounds, broke into three gallons of water, and let stand for two days, when the stalks, &c. will all be at top. Press oflP all the stalks, and while straining the mixture, add twelve pounds of sugar; turn it into a cask, and keep it full enough to let the feculent matter work out — re- peatedly removing it, and filling it up, until no more rises, which will be in about fourteen days; add to it one quart of spirits nearly tasteless, or else brandy, and bung up close — keeping it at least six months be- fore it is bottled. Let the currants be gathered free from dew or rain; and if they be spread a day or two before they are used, they will be none the worse. Fourteen pounds will make one gallon juice, twelve pounds of sugar another gallon; therefore the above ingredients should be equal to five gallons, and enough to fill up with. CUSTARD APPLE. • Annona Triloba^ Is said to be a good purgative medicine. 518 Materia Medica, DANDELION. Leontodon Teraxacu7ny Vulgarly called piss-a-beds; grows in meadows, pas- tures, and road sides and ditch-banks, with yellow flow- ers, which blow from April to September, and pos- sess the remarkable quality of expanding early in the the morning, and closing in the evening. The root, leaves and stalk contain a large proportion of bitter milky juice, which, in doses of a wine-glassful twice or thrice a day, is good in chronic inflammations of the liver, dropsies, difficulty of making water, and other complaints arising from obstructions of the viscera. It may also be taken in the form of a strong decoction, from a gill to a half pint twice or thrice a day. DEADLY NIGHTSHADE. See Nightshade Deadly. DEERBERRY. See Mountain Tea, DEVIL'S BIT. Veratrum Luteum. The root of this plant is a very pungent bitter, and is employed as a tonic, either in the form of tincture or infusion. In this last form it has also been employed as a vermifuge. DEWBERRY. See Blackberry. DILL. Anethum Graveolens^ Flourishes in our gardens, producing seed delight- fully aromatic, which, in doses of one or two tea -spoon- fuls, are excellent to remove flatulent colics, and assist digestion. 'Materia Medica, 519 DOCK WATER, OR WATER DOCK. Rumex Aquaticus, Grows in wet ditches, mill-ponds, sides of rivers, and in shallow water, flowering in July and August. Half a pint of a decoction of the leaves or roots, two handfuls to a quart of boiling water, or two or three tea-spoonfuls of the dried roots in powder, taken two or three times a-day, is an admirable medicine to sweeten and purify the blood in scurvy, scald head, tet- ter worm, and other cutaneous diseases. The fre^h roots bruised, and mixed with vinegar, or in strong decoction, is a good cure of the ring worm, and has often subdued that filthy complaint the itch, when quack medicines, and even sulphur had failed. It is also well worthy trying in form of poultice to tumours and cancerous ulcers. The curled dock, narrow and broad leaved dock^ which grow in yards and cultivated fields, are all va- rieties of this useful plant, and possess similar virtues- It is said the narrow leaved dock, applied in the form of fomentation and poultice, to a cancerous sore, and from a pint to a quart of the decoction taken daily, made a perfect cure. DOGWOOD. Cornus Florida, The bark of this famous tree, which may well be termed the cinchona or Peruvian bark of North Ame- rica, possesses like that all those tonic powers, which give it such admirable control over intermittents, gan- grene, and all diseases proceeding from debility. From my own observation in practice I am abun- dantly warranted in pronouncing it generally preferable to the imported bark, which is often injured by adulte- rations. Like the Peruvian bark, but in somev»'hat lar- ger doses, it may be used in substance or decoction, 520 Materia Medica. infusion or tincture, either alone or conjoined with snake root, or some of the aromatics. But the shape in which it will be found most agreeable, is that of an ex- tract, which is easily prepared by boiling the bark, straining it, and then evaporating it very slowly to the consistence of honey. To prevent the fatal effects of burning it, the vessel in which it is evaporated should be of the wide mouth sort, placed in a large pot of boiling water, and often stirred towards the close of the operation. The dose is from a half to a whole tea-spoonful, thri2e or four times a-day. The beautiful red berries of dogwood, combined with lemon peel, snake root, cali- mus, or any other warm aromatic seeds, form a fine bitter against the common fall complaints. DRAGON'S CLAW. See F^er JRoat. DRAGON ROOT. See Cuc/cow Pint. ELDER COMMON, OR BLACK, Sambucus Niger ^ Grows to the height of a small tree, in hedges, and along the borders of meadows: the young shoots are full of pith, and the old stalks empty; flowers in July, and the berry of a blackish purple colour when ripe. The expressed juice of elder berries put into a plate, or wide mouth vessel, and evaporated in the sun to the state of an extract, in doses from a tea, to a table-spoonful, acts as a good aperient medicine. A tea made of the leaves, a large handful to a quart of boiling water, and taken freely, removes a costive habit, promotes perspiration, and thus proves useful in erup- tions of the skin, St. Anthony's fire, colds, dropsies, and all obstructions of the viscera. The inner green bark, steeped in wine, a large handful to a pint, or made into a strong decoction, purges gently, in doses • Materia Medico. 521 of a gill. The flowers stewed with lard, form a good ointment for burns. Elder berries also form an exx^ellent wine, according to the following recipe: Elder wine is made by mix- ing twelve gallons and a half of ripe elder berry juice, and forty- two pounds of sugar, with thirty- seven gal- lons and a half of water, that previously has had boiled in it six ounces of ginger, and nine ounces of pimento, bruised and strained off; and when it has nearly cooled, rather less than milk warm, add a pint of thin brew- er's yeast, and let it ferment for fourteen days, in the barrel, then bung up close, and bottle in six months. ELECAMPANE. Inula Helineuniy Grows three or four feet high, in stony pastures, and by the road side; flowers large and yellow, in July and August; and the root when dry, has an agreeable aro- matic smell, and in a decoction sweetened with honey, or in the form of syrup, or a tea- spoonful of the pow- dered root in molasses, is recommended for promoting expectoration in asthma and coughs. The fresh root, in ointment, or strong decoction^ is said to cure the itch. ELM, AMERICAN, OR SLIPPERY. Ulmns Ameriearua. My very learned friend, professor Mitchell, has wit- nessed its good effects internally in catarrhs, pleurisies, and quinsies; and externally as a poultice for gun-shot wounds, tumours, and all ulcers and sores accompanied with irritation. A tea-spoonful of the inner bark in powder, to a quart of boiling water, or a simple infu- sion of the bark in boiling water, forms an astonish- ingly rich jelly, which I have often tried with the hap- piest effects, ia diarrhoea and dysentery. With the 3U 522 Materia Medica, addition of a little sugar, lemon juice, citron, or nut- meg, it might be made an excellent substitute for sago or arrow root. I am indebted for this improvement to the reverend and very amiable Dr. Gant, many years chaplain to congress, and physician to Mr. Jeftcrson. This learned gentleman, universally celebrated for his successful treat- ment of dysentery, declared to me, with great candor, that he ascribed much of his reputation in that danger- ous disease to this fine jelly. EMETIC WEED, OR INDIAN TOBACCO. Lobelia Injiata^ Grows in dry fields, and rises to the height of one or two feet, with branched stems, flowering in July and August, with blown cups, filled with numerous small seeds. The blossoms are solitary in a kind of spike, of a pale blue colour. The leaves are oblong, and have a very acrid and pungent taste, similar to that of tobac- co. The leaves collected in August, while the plant is in blossom, and carefully dried and preserved, act as a speedy and excellent emetic, in doses from ten to twen- ty grains; or it may be exhibited in the form of a satu- rated tincture, in doses from a tea to a table-spoon- ful. As it is a medicine of considerable activity, it should be given in small quantities, and the dose repeated every ten or fifteen minutes, until it excites vomiting. From its speedy operation, as an emetic, there is no doubt it would be ^an effectual remedy for the croup and hooping cough. In small doses it must be of great uti- lity in consumptive and other coughs, by exciting ex- pectoration. It is, however, valued on account of its approaching nearer to a specific in that most distress- ing disease the asthma, than any other that has been yet discovered. The following highly interesting observations from the Rev. Dr. M. Cutler, an eminent botanist, who first Materia Meclica, 523 noticed the virtues of this plant, is related in Dr. Thacher's American new Dispensatory. " By chewing a small portion of it, commonly not more than o?ie of the capsules, it proves a gentle emetic. If the quantity be a little increased, it operates as an emetic, and then as a cathartic, its effects being much the same as those of the common emetics and cathar- tics. " It has been my misfortune to be an asthmatic for about ten years. I have made trial of a great variety of the usual remedies, with very litde benefit. In several paroxysms, I had found relief more frequently than from any thing else, from the skunk cabbage. The last sum- mer I had the severest attack I ever experienced. It commenced early in August, and continued about eight weeks. Dr. Drury, of Marblthead, also an asth- matic, had made use of a tincture of the Indian tobac- co, by the advice of a friend, in a severe paroxysm early in the spring. It gave him immediate relief, and he has been entirely free from the complaint from that time. I had a tincture made of the fresh plant, and took care to have the spirit fully saturated, which I think is important. In a paroxysm, which was perhaps as severe as I ever experienced, the difficulty of breathing was ex- treme, and after it had continued a considerable time, I took a table- spoonful. In three or four minutes my breathing was as free as it ever was, but I ftrlt no nausea at the stomach. In ten minutes I took another spoonful, v/hich occasioned sickness. After ten minutes I took the third, which produced sensible effects upon the coats of the stomach, with moderate puking, and a kind of prickly sensation through the whole system, even to the extremities of the fingers and toes. The urinary passage was perceptibly affected with a smart- ing sensation in passing urine, which was probably provoked by stimulus on the bladder. But all these sensations very soon subsided, and a vigour seemed to be restored to the constitution, which I had not ex- perienced for years. I have not since had a paroxysm, and only a few times some small symptoms of asthma. 524 Materia Medica\ Besides the violent attacks, I had scarcely passed a night without more or less of it, and often so as not to be able to lie in bed. Since that time, I have enjoy- ed as good health as perhaps belore the first attack. Dr. Cutler states a particular case has been related to him, of an effectual cure of the hydrophobia, or bite of a mad dog, in the last stage of the disease, by this plant. In a disease so formidable as this, it is certainly worthy of trial." ERGOT, OR SPURRED RYE. Secale Cornutum, Rye is subject to a disease in low wet situations, or when a hot summer succeeds a rainy spring. The spu- rious substance called ergot, is found projecting from among the leaves of the spike or ear; it is a long crook- ed excrescence, resembling the spur of a cock, point- ed at the extremity, of a dark brown colour externally, and white within. Some spikes are occupied wholly by spurs, while others have two or three only, inter- spersed with genuine seeds of rye. This extraordinary substance possesses considerable medicinal properties. In lingering and laborious cases in childbed, it acts as an invaluable medicine, speedily inducing forcible pains, and expediting delivery. It is given in the form of powder, in doses from five to fifteen grains, but it has sometimes been found more active in the form of decoction, prepared by gently boiling thirty grains of the powder in half a pint of water, of which ' one third may be taken every twenty minutes, until proper pains shall have commenced. It is proper, however, to caution the domestic prac- ' titioner against employing this powerful medicine in cases of prasternatural presentation, or even in every case of natural presentation. The powerful and conti- nued efforts of the uterus, from the effects of the ergot, prevent the retreat of the child's head after being advanced, and the unceasing pressure in some in- stances, occasioned the death of the child. Let this Materia Medica, 525 circumstance, therefore, have its due eflfect, and induce tlie utmost precaution in the administration of this pow- erful article. This medicine has also been successfully employed in cases of obstructed menses, or monthly evacuations. See Thacher's Dispensatory. EVERGREEN CASSINE. See South Sea Tea. FEATHERFEW, OR FEVERFEW. Matricaria Vulgaris. It is frequently cuhivated in gardens. A handful of the leaves and tops infused in a quart of water, and given in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a day, is used bv country people to promote the menses, to strengthen the stomachy to raise the spirits, and promote perspira- tion in colds and fevers. FENNEL, SWEET. Fceniculim Dulce^ Grows kindly in our gardens. A tea-spoonful of the seeds with a little sugar and spirits, is a common remedy among the country people in flatulent colic. To children afflicted with the above complaint, an infusion of the seeds sweetened is highly serviceable. The seeds yield an aromatic oil, which, in doses from two to twelve drops, removes flatulence, promotes expectoration, and is serviceable in coughs. FERN FEMALE, OR BACKACH BRAKE, Grows near ponds, and in moist pastures, about twelve inches high. The leaves are single, winged, and about a hand's length; the root is about the size of a 526 Materia Medica. goose quill, of a brown colour, very sweet, and of a mu- cilaginous taste. A quart of a strong decoction of the roots, and a pint of honey, formed into a syrup, by gentle simmering, and given in doses of a table-spoonful every hour or two, is esteemed highly beneficial in all violent coughs. It is said that three parts of the roots of this plant, and one part of sumach root, boiled slowly in any kind of spirits, until it becomes slimy, and then applied warm to the spine, has frequently relieved the backach; hence the vulgar name, backach brake. It has also been employed as a remedy for the rickets in children. FERN, MALE. Polypodium. Called also sweet fern, male polypody. It grows in woods and stony places, flowering from June to Oc- tober. The root, when chewed, is somewhat mucilaginous and sweet, and afterwards astringent and bitter. Sweet fern in powder, in doses from one to two tea- spoonfuls, or a decoction, a pint a day, followed on the fifth day with a dose of castor oil, or some purgative medicine, is esteemed a powerful medicine against worms, and particularly the tape worm. FEVER BUSH, OR WILD ALLSPICE. Dumus Febrisj Grows in meadows and swamps, and generally rises five or six feet high, leaves numerous and somewhat spearshaped; the blossoms rather of a reddish colour; the berries are blood red, and of a pleasant smell. A handful of the twigs of this bush, infused in a quart of boiling water, and given in doses of a tea- cupful every hour or two, is said to be extremely cooling and bene- ficial in fevers. Materia Medica. 527 A handful or two of the berries infused in a quart of spirits, forms a pleasant bitter. FEVER ROOT, OR DRAGON'S CLAW, Grows upon mountains, and the sides of hills, about six or seven inches high; the leaves grow in a cluster from the top of the root, spear-shaped, blossoms yellow; the root black, about the size of cloves, very tender, re- sembling the claws of the animal whose name it bears. When it is pulverized and exposed to the air, it will liquify. The root in form of powder in doses of a tea- spoon- ful, or in the form of decoction, a handful to a quart of water, in doses of a tea-cupful every hour, is esteemed an excellent medicine in bilious fever, pleurisy, colds, St. Anthony's fire, and other febrile diseases. FIG TREE. Ficus. This tree ought more generally to be cultivated in our gardens, as it affords a fruit both grateful to the stomach, and easy of digestion, possessing also medicinal pro- perties. A decoction of figs makes an excellent gargle for cleansing the throat and mouth; and the fruit, externally applied to tumors, or gum-biles, is good to promote suppuration. When unripe, figs, as well as the whole tree, yield an acrid milky juice, which if taken, proves doth emetic and purgative, but externally is a mild caus- tic — hence is frequently used to remove warts, ring and tetter worms. 528 Materia Medic'a. FLAG BLUE, OR WATER FLAG. Iris Pseudacorusy Grows by the brink of rivers, in swamps, and mea- dows, blossoming in July; flowers blue, variegated with white, yellow and purple. The juice, in doses of a tea-spoonful, diluted with wa- ter, is said to be an active cathartic medicine, and to produce copious evacuations from the bowels, and to be useful in dropsy and dysentery. It produces similar ef- fects in powder, from thirty to sixty grains, and has been employed as a vermifuge. In the form of decoction, used as a diet drink, it is greatly extolled in venereal cases. The root of the yellow flag, mixed with the food of hogs that have been bitten by a mad dog, has been known to save, when without it others have run mad. FLAG, SWEET. See Calimus. FLAXSEED. Unumy Possesses great medicinal virtues. An infusion, or tea, is the most suitable drink for patients labouring under violent colds, coughs, difiiculty or burning in making water. The flaxseed syrup, which is prepared by adding a pint of honey to a quart of strong tea, and simmering it away slowly by a gentle fire for an hour, observing to take oflf the scum as it rises, I have found to be a most valuable medicine in diseases of the breast and lungs, in doses from a tea to a table-spoonful, every hour of two, or oftener when the cough is troublesome. The flaxseed, bruised, also forms one of the best emollient poultices with which we arc acquainted. Materia Medica, 529 FLEA BANE, PHILADELPHIA. Erigeron Phtladelphicum* Called by some, skerish. It is said, by professor Barton, to be a very common plant in many parts of the United States, and that in the form of infusion or de- coction, it operates powerfu41y as a diuretic, and also as a sudorific. It is likewise reputed to be a good re- medy for promoting the menstrual discharge. In Virginia there is a plant called piss- wort, which is esteemed a powerful medicine in cases of strangury or difficulty of urine. FLOWER DE LUCE. See Flag Blue. FLUX ROOT. See Pleumy Root. FOX-GLOVE. Digitalis Purpurea^ Has lately been cultivated in our gardens. It rises to the height of two or more feet, and its leaves are large, egg-shjped, notched like a saw, and covered with hairs. Blos->oms of a beautiful purple colour, hanging down- wards in a row along one side, which are compared with the fingers of a glove, and in the inside are elegantly mottled with spots like little eyes. The fox-glove has been employed with advantage in those disorders where the frequency of the pulse re- quires to be abated. In the incipient stage of consump- tion, it has, by 'diminishing the circulation through the lungs, frequently succeeded in arresting the progress of the disease. It has also been advantageously employed in the second stage, but here it should be exhibited with the greatest precaution. The treatment of consumption with fox-glove, cannot be more satisfactorily shown, than 3X 530 Materia Medica, in the following practical remarks of my learned friend, Dr. John Spence, of Dumfries, Virginia, communicated in that useful work, the New- York Medical Reposi- tory: " In the incipient stage of consumption, where there is considerable vigour of constitution, particularly if at- tended with active hemorrhage from the lungs, I push the use of the digitalis cautiously, but freely; that is, I try to reduce the pulse under sixty strokes in a minute, and maintain this depression for two or three weeks, notwithstanding there be occasionally considerable and distressing nausea. At the same time, I advise a milk and vegetable diet, with gentle exercise on horseback, or in a carriage, when the weather will admit, and the use of the swing-chair for an hour at a time, twice or thrice a- day. When the pains about the chest are wan- dering, I also advise the repeated application of a blis- ter, and other stimulating plasters, to the breast, and between the shoulders; but if the pain be fixed, I pre- fer the introduction of a seton, as near the part affected as possible. My patient is also directed to drink mode- rately of emollient teas, or tar water, to be warmly clothed, to avoid cold and wet feet, and setting up late at night. All great exertions of the body, but particu- larly of the lungs, as singing, or speaking loud, must also be carefully avoided. '* In the second, or more advanced stage of this disease, accompanied with a quick pulse and great general de- bility, the treatment is very different. The fox-glove must be so managed, as to lower the pulse, and mode- rate the fever; but never pushed to such an extent, as to excite nausea or sickness at the stomach. A little ex- perience will soon enable a judicious and attentive prac- titioner to ascertain the dose adapted to his patient's constitution; and as soon as he has attained this know- ledge, he must be persevering in the use of the medicine. At this period of the disease, the patient's strength must never be suffered to languish. He must be supported by nutritious diet. Agreeably to the present manners of society, two or three meals are taken in the course of the day; but this mode of ea(ing is very improper with Materia Medica, 531 delicate constitutions, more food being generally eaten at such stated |)eriods, than is necessary; thereby causing great heat, accelerating the pulse, and throvving the whole system into commotion. The diet should be nou- rishing, and of easy digestion, such as jellies, broths, eggs boiled soft, oysters raw or moderately roasted; in- deed a bit of fowl, beef, mutton or venison, dressed rare, may be taken in small quantities every two or three hours throughout the day. This deviation from the pre- sent fashion of eating is indispensable, ample nou- I rishment being thereby thrown into the system w^ithout I exciting irritation. At the same time I recommend solid food in this way, I forbid the use of spices, wine, or spirits. The same directions respecting topical ap- plications and exercise, are equally applicable to this, as the incipient stage, and particularly the exercise of swinging; and care must be taken, that the swing-chair be so constructed, that the patient may be perfectly at ease, without being afflicted by fatigue, or bodily exer- tion." Many other respectable physicians beaf testimony in favour of this medicine in consumptive cases. Dr. Bed- does, of London, considers the fox- glove almost as in- fallible a remedy in consumption, as the Peruvian bark in intermittents. From its power of reducing the force of the circulation, it is esteemed likewise a valuable remedy in bleeding of the nose,, spitting of blood, and excessive discharge of the menses, and also in palpita- tion of the heart from the passions of the mind or intem- perance. Dr. Rand, of Boston, has experienced the most de- cidedly good effects of this medicine in most of the pre- ceding complaints. In one instance of hasmoptoe, or spitting of blood, in a very athletic young man, where the discharge eluded the force of every other medicine, it reduced the pulse in eight hours, from one hundred to fifty pulsations in a minute, and stopped the hemor- rhage. He has also given the medicine with complete success in cases of mental derangement. Fox-glove possesses also diuretic power, and has long been employed in dropsy. It unquestionably acts 532 Materia Medica, powerfully as a diuretic, or in evacuating the water in dropsy, and will be found of the greatest utility in every species of this disease, but more especially the dropsy of the breast, when there exists an increased action in the system. However, from the respectable authority of Dr. Wi- thering, and the celebrated Dr. Darwin, we are assured it has been exhibited with the most happy effects, in cases of extreme debility, where the pulse was feeble, intermitting, and the countenance pale. It should not be given in such doses as to excite much sickness or purge, otherwise it will not produce its diuretic effect. The best rule for its administration, is to commence with the smaller doses, twice or thrice a day, and gradu- ally increase the quantity daily, until the medicine either acts on the kidneys, the stomach, or the bowels; and on the first appearance of any of these effects, it is to be suspended. After evacuating the water, tonic or strengthening medicines should be employed. Dr. Currie, another physician of great eminence in England, has employed this medicine with signal advantage in inflammation of the brain, heart, and lungs, and found it also an excel- lent remedy in the inflammatory rheumatism. The leaves of this plant are the part in use, of which from one to three grains in powder, may be given to an adult twice or thrice a day, alone, or united with some aro- matic, or the powder may be formed into pills with soap, or the crumbs of bread, or it may be given in the form of infusion, by infusing a drachm of the dried leaves in half a pint of boiling water, for four hours, adding to the strained liquor one ounce of any spirituous water; from one to two table-spoonfuls to be given twice or thrice a day, as a medium dose for an adult. Another more con- venient way of ascertaining the dose of fox-glove, is by making a saturated tincture of it in proof spirits, which has the twofold advantage of being invariable in its original strength, and of keeping a long time, without losing any of its virtues. Put two of the leaves nicely dried, and coarsely powdered, into half a pint of spirits; let it stand by the fire side twenty-four hours or longer, Materia Medica. 533 frequently shaking the bottle, and thus making a saturat- ed tincture of fox-glove, which must be poured from the sediment, or passed through filtering paper. F. om twenty to sixty drops of the tincture may be taken in a little mint- water or tea two or three times a day. This medicine has also been externally applied with good ef- fects. An infusion of it is recommended as a good wash for painful cutaneous eruptions or ulcerations. An oint- ment, prepared by simmering the leaves in lard or fresh butter, has been found successful in scrophulous ulcers and scald head. FRENCH APPLE. See Thorn Apple, FROSTWORT. Systis Canadensis^ Grows in woods about two feet high; leaves small and numerous, of a whitish colour like frost; the stalk purple; flowers of a pale colour, producing a small pod with very small seed. It is said in cases of scrophula, or king's evil, an in- fusion of the leaves, a handful to a quart of boiling wa- ter, in doses of a tea-cupful three times a day, and the leaves in the form of poultice, applied to the swelling twice a day, has performed cures. FUMITORY. Fumaria Officinalis^ Grows in corn-fields, and by fences, and rises a foot high; leaves pale green, and the flowers of a reddish pur- ple. The leaves in the form of infusion, a handful to a quart of boiling water, and taken in doses of a tea-cupful thrice a day, are esteemed a good medicine in scabby eruptions, and all cutaneous diseases, particularly if the eruptions are washed with the infusion. 534 Materia Medica. GARGET. See Po/ce Weed. GARLIC, COMMON. Allium Sativum^ Is highly stimulating, and therefore useful to persons of cold phlegmatic constitutions. It provokes the appe- tite, assists digestion, removes flatulence, promotes ex- pectoration and urine, and hence has long been used in scurvy, asthma, and dropsy. Where it cannot be taken in substance, the best forms are either in syrup or pills. Externally applied, it blisters the skin. A poultice or cataplasm of equal parts of bruised garlic and ciAjmbs of bread, mixed with sharp vinegar, applied to the soles of the feet, in the low stage of acute disorders, or nervous fever, is good to raise the pulse, and relieve the head. Sydenham says it exceeds all other applications for occasioning a revulsion from the head, and that the eflficacy of garlic thus applied every night, until slight inflammation is produced, is superior to Spanish flies. It is an excel- lent remedy in cases of croup or violent sore throats. See Onions. It will also be found a good application to the pubes in producing a discharge of urine, when its retention has arisen from want of due action of the bladder. When made into an ointment, it is said to discuss cold and indolent tumors, and has been esteemed for its efficacy in cutaneous eruptions. In deafness, a small clove of the root, wrapped in gauze, cotton, or wool, moistened with th^ juice, and introduced into the ear, has frequent- ly proved an efficacious remedy, if repeated twice;, or thrice a day. GENTIAN. Gentiantty Grows on the sides of roads, and in waste pastures, two or three feet high. The stem is strong, smooth, Materia Materia. 535 anil erect; the lAves, which rise from the lower part of the stem, are spear-shaped, large, ribbed and rough; flowers yellow, in whorls^ terminating in yellow bitter berries. Its virtues are equal to the imported. It has long oc- cupied the first place in all recipes for bitters, whether used to provoke the appetite, or give tone to the system. It may also be taken in the form of infusion, a small handful of the root to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a-day. GINSENG. Panax ^inquefolium. Grows in abundance on the sides of mountains, arid in rich soils. My friend, Dr. Thornton, has some plants growing on his farm near Washington, which he obtain- ed at Monticello; he says it is easily cultivated. It flow- ers in July, and has black berries; the root has an agreeable sweetish taste, and is much esteemed by the Indians; it is also an article of exportation. The leaves or root in the form of infusion, are con-^ sidered useful in cases of debility, and gravel com- plaints. The root chewed, or steeped in wine or spirits, and taken in doses of a wine-glassful twice a-day, acts as a cordial, and invigorates the system. GOAT'S RUE, VIRGINIA. See Cat Gut. GOLDEN ROD, OR THREAD. See Mouth Boot. GOOSE GRASS. Galium Aparine^ Called by some Poor Robin's plantain, from its effi- cacy in curing the gravel. Grows in hedges, low grounds, and near brooks, to the height of five or six feet, ciinibing on the bushes 536 Materia Medica. near it. The tipper side of the leaves is white, with sharp prickles; the flowers small, and divided into four segments; these change into a fruit rather large, com. posed of two berries slightly adhering together, and covered with hooked prickles, containing two seeds. The leaves in the form of decoction, a handful to a quart of water, are highly celebrated as a remedy in gravel complaints, and suppression of urine, in doses of a tea-cupful every hour or two, until relieved. It has ^Iso been recommended in the cure of scurvy, spitting of blood, and epilepsy or fits. GROUND HOLLY. Pyrolla Umbellata* It is sometimes called Pippsisseva, which is its Indian appellation. It possesses, in an eminent degree, the same properties as Bear's Whortleberry, which see. GROUND PINE. Arthetica, Grows plentifully in stony lands, about six inches high, sending forth many small branches, with small narrow grayish leaves, somewhat hairy; flowers of a pale colour, growing from the joint of the stalk, among the leaves, after which come small round husks. A large handful of the leaves and flowers steeped in a pint of wine, and taken in doses of a wine-glassful twice or thrice a-day, is said to be beneficial in rheu- matism and uterine obstructions. GROUND PINK. Silene Virginica^ Called also catch-fly. A decoction of the roots is said to have been found a very efficacious remedy for worms. Materia Medica. 537 GUINEA PEPPER. See Pepper, Red. HART'S TONGUE, Grows among rocks and shady places; the leaves are of a shining black colour, long, pointed, and tongue- shaped. This herb, in the form of infusion, a handful to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea-cupful two or three times a-day, is said to be a good remedy in diar- rhoea and dysentery; and in the form of ointment, pre- pared by simmering a handful of the leaves in half a pint or more of lard, is a good application to scalds and burns. HEART'S EASE, OR HERB TRINITY. Vio^a Tricolor, Grows generally in corn fields, producing white and yellow blossoms, intermixed with purple, which flower from May to September. A decoction of a handful of the fresh leaves, or half the quantity of the dried, in a pint of milk, used daily for some weeks, is said to be a certain remedy for that disorder in children, called milk scab, or that species of scald head which affects the faces of children. HEART SNAKE ROOT. This, according to my ever-esteemed and honourable friend, Paul Hamilton, Esq. flourishes in Carolina and Georgia, in rich high lands, never exceeding the height of six inches. The root is of a very aromatic taste, and the smell somewhat resembling the sassafras. The leaf shaped like a heart, dark green, and very glossy on the upper surface. The juice of the root and leaf pounded 3 Y 5S8 Materia Medica, together, in dose of a table- spoonful for an adult, is an active and safe emetic; and a decoction in as large quan- tities, and as frequent as the stomach will bear, is of ex- cellent service in the jail, camp, and nervous fever. HELEBORE, WHITE. Veratrtun Alburn^ Grows in wet meadows and swampy places. The stalk is thick, strong, hairy, upright, and usually rises from two to four feet. The leaves are large, oval, rib- bed, plated, of a yellowish colour, and surround the stem at its base. The flowers are of a greenish colour, and appear from June to August, followed each by three flat pods, containing whitish triangular seed. The root is short, commonly near an inch thick, with numerous fibres hanging from it, of a brown colour externally; it has, when fresh, a nauseous bitter taste, burning the mouth and fauces; snuffed up the nostrils in very small quantities, it excites most violent sneezing. Every part of this plant is extremely acrid and poi- sonous. By the hand of skill, it has been employed in- ternally with beneficial effects in several obstinate dis- eases, as those of the melancholic and maniacal kind, and epilepsy, king's evil, herpetic, and other cutaneous affections. In those complaints the bark of the root, collected in the spring, has been given in the form of powder, beginning with half a grain at a dose, and gra- dually increasing the quantity daily according to its ef- fects. The American species, says Dr. Thatcher, very pro- bably possesses all the properties of the foreign officinal root. It is undoubtedly a plant of highly active powers, meriting a particular investigation as an article of our Materia Medica. In fact, a new interest has lately been excited both in Europe and the United States, relative to the properties of white helebore. It is even supposed to be the basis of the French specific remedy, called Eau Medicinale d'Husson, so highly famed for its almost infallible powers in the cure of the gout, as to com- Materia Medica, 539 mand the enormous price of from one to two crowns a dose. This remcdj was discovered about forty years ago by Mr. Husson, a French officer, who affirms it to be prepared from a plant whose virtues were before unknown in medicine; and it has long been celebrated in France, and other parts of the European continent. The importance and popularity of the subject were incitements to various attempts for that purpose, and to the ingenuity of Mr. I. Mooffe, member of the royal col- lege of surgeons, London, the public are indebted for a composition, which, if not identically the same, bears a strong resemblance to the Eau Medicinale, in smell, taste, and dose: and also in all its effiscts, as far as it has been tried in the cure of gout. The composition of Mr. Moore consists of wine of opium Sydenham, one part, wine of white helebore, three parts, made by infu- fusing for ten days eight ounces of the sliced root of that plant, in two and a half pints of white wine, and strained through paper. This compound when exhibit- ed in doses from one to two drachms, has, in a variety of instances, effected a speedy cure of gouty parox- ysms. There are, indeed, well attested facts, where the most painful gouty affections have yielded to a sin- gle dose of about one drachm; and the instances of its failure have hitherto, it is believed, been more rare than can be said of any other remedy. The employ- ment of the composition of Mr. Moore, has also, in the hands of respectable physicians, been extended to acute rheumatism, and to some comatose affections, with the most decided advantage; and a perseverance in similar trials is strongly recommended. Its operation may be promoted by some aromatic, or by peppermint, penny- royal, or ginger tea. It in general occasions some nau- sea and vomiting, followed by bilious stools. Exter- nally applied in the form of ointment or decoction, it cures the itch, and other cutaneous affections. An oint- ment is prepared by simmering the root slowly in hog's lard. The decoction is made by boiling two ounces or a handful of the root bruised, in a quart of water, to a pint and a half, and then strained. The addition of a 540 Materia Mcdiea. few ounces of lavender, rose, or lemon water, may be made, if convenient. With this the parts affected should be washed twice or thrice a-day. HEMLOCK. Cpnium Maculatum^ Grows to the height of six or seven feet in rich lands, near ditches, and in moi9#shady places. It is an um- belUferous plant, with large leaves, of a dark green colour on the upper side, and a whitish green underneath; they much resemble parsley, especially the leaves of the smaller sorts, whose poisonous quality is the most violent. The stalk is round, smooth, hollow, and mark- ed with brown or red spots; the flowers are white; the seeds greenish; flat on one side, very convex, and mark- ed with five furrows on the other. The root is long, yellowish without, white and fungous within, and some- what resembling a carrot; it changes its form according to the season; the leaves have a rank smell, resembling the urine of a cat, but do not much affect the taste. This poisonous plant possesses great medicinal vir- tue when judiciously employed. It has been used with considerable advantage in painful cancerous ulcers, ve- nereal ulcerations, cutaneous affections, gleets, painful discharges from the vagina, and in a variety of cases of scrophulous affections. It has also been of great effi- cacy in epilepsy, chronic rheumatism, and jaundice. Externally applied, it has been useful in discussing scirrhous tumours, particularly those of a scrophulous nature. The proper method of administering hemlock in- wardly, is to begin with a grain or two of the powder of the leaves, or the inspissated juice, and gradually to increase the dose, until the head is affected with slight giddiness, or it occasions some sickness and trembling agitations of the body, or produces one or two evacua- tions the morning after the dose. One or more of these symptoms are the evidences of a full dose, and here continue until none of these effects are observed; and Materia Medica, 541 then, after a few days, increase the dose; for little ad- vantage can be expected, but by a continuance of full doses. The dried leaves arc less liable to injury from keep- ing than the inspissated juice. The leaves should be collected in June, when the plant is in flower, and its particular smell strong. The drying of the leaves should be performed quickly before a fue, on tin plates. The proof of the drying having been well performed, is the powder's retaining the odour of the leaves, and the deep- ness and freshness of the colour. It should be kept in close vials, and secluded from the light. HENBANE, BLACK. Hifosciamus Niger j Grows at the sides of fences, about old ruins, and on dung-hills, and with the dung is sometimes carried into gardens, where from fts similitude to parsnips, it is mis- taken for them; and when eaten, produces stupor, and apoplectic symptoms terminating in death. It rises from one to two feet in height; the stalks are thick, woody, irregularly branched, and covered with a hairy down; the leaves surrounding the stalk at their base, stand ir- regularly; they are large, soft, and downy, pointed at the ends, and very deeply indented at the edges; their colour is a grayish green, and they have a disagreeable smell: the flowers are large, egg-shaped, and of a dirty yellowish colour, with purple streaks. The root is long, tough, white, and when recently cut through smells like liquorice. According to Dr. Stork, the juice of this poisonous plant inspissated, and exhibited in doses from one grain to twenty, every twenty-four hours, has relieved many from palpitation of the heart, a tendency to melancholy, coughs, and other spasmodic disorders and convulsions, and this after other means had failed. HERB BENNET. Avens. 542 Materia Medica, HERB TRINITY. Set Heart's Ease. HOGBED, OR HOGWEED. Ambrosia^ Grows near farm yards, and on stony soils, like moss, about three inches high. The leaves are of a deep green colour, small and curly. The hogs delight to make their bed on it, from whence it derives its name. A handful of this plant infused in a quart of water, and given in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a day, is a popular remedy among women to promote the menses or courses. HOLY THISTLE. See Thistle Holy. HOODED WIDOW HERB. Scutellaria Lateraflora^ Is found in abundance on the banks of rivers, and the borders of ponds, flowering ^n July and August. The stem is square, branched, and attains the height of from one to three feet. The leaves opposite, narrow- pointed, on long foot stalks; the blossoms small, of a violet colour, intermixed with small leaves. Dr. Thatcher has introduced this plant in his Ameri- can Dispensatory, on account of its recently reputed effi- cacy as an antidote to canine madness. It is directed to be given in the form of a strong infusion of the leaves every morning fasting, and to be continued for several weeks. For cattle, it may be mixed with their food or drink. HOPS. Humuli^ Are an agreeable strong bitter, principally used in making malt liquors. They also induce sleep; hence the popular remedy of a pillow of hops to procure sleep Materia Medica. 545 in the delirium of fever, and insanity, which not unfre- quently succeeds. They give out their virtues to spirits or water. In the form of fomentation and poultice, hops serve as a most valuable application to ill-conditioned ulcers, or painful cancerous sores. ^ Mr. Stephen Hammock, assistant surgeon to the royal hospital at Plymouth, gives the following account of the benefit obtained from the external use of hops. I have seen, (says Mr. H.) very good effects from hops in poul- tices and fomentations applied to ulcers of the worst kind, in more than sixty patients received into the hos- pital from ships of war. Some of the ulcers proceeded from scurvy, and some from other causes. But though all of them have been sordid, fcEtid, and extensive, yet the foetor has soon been corrected by these applications, and the ulcers have ceased to spread. A large handful of hops is to be well boiled with a quart of water, to which should be added meal, or bran, forming a poultice, applied to the ulcer, without any intervening lint. But, previous to this application of the poultice, the ulcers are directed to be well fomented with the decoction. The pain proceeding from the ul- cers is soon alleviated, and the ulcers soon cease to spread. They become clean, and in a state to be dress- ed with lint, or any soft ointment. See Duncan's Annah of Medicine, also Medical Repository, Hops form the bases of beer and yeasts, of which the following are the most simple, and among the most ap- proved. Beer, Take fifteen gallons of water, and boil one half of it, or as much as can conveniently be managed; put the part of the water thus boiled, while it is yet of its full heat, to the cold part, contained in a barrel or cask, and then add one gallon of molasses, commonly called treacle, stirring them well together; add a little yeast, if the vessel be new% but if it has been used for the same purpose, the yeast is uruiecessary. Keep the bung-hole open, till the fermentation appears to be aba- ted, and then close it up. The beer will in a day or two 544 Materia Medica, afterwards be fit to drink. A few handfuls of hops, boiled in the water, either with a little orange peel, or without, give a wholesome and pleasant bitter to this beer, and assist in keeping it from turning sour. If tops of the spruce-fir be added to the water which is boiled for making this beer, it is then called spruce beer. Extemporaneous small beer. To two quarts of com- mon porter, add of molasses half a pint, of ginger two drachms, water just warm, four quarts; let the whole ferment in a warm place, then rack oft. Another, Lemon peel one ounce, cream of tartar four ounces, hops one ounce, molasses one quart, ginger one drachm, bruised cloves four in number, boiling water four gallons; ferment with yeast. To make yeast. Boil a pint bowl full of hops in two quarts of water to one quart; put eight table-spoonfuls of flour into a pan, and strain the hop water boiling on it; when mixed, it should be thick batter, and when milk warm, stir in it a breakfast cup of good yeast; put in into three porter bottles, stopping them with paper; put them into a milk pan near the fire, and as soon as the mixture rises to the top of the bottle, remove them to the cellar until it subsides, then cork the bottles, and and set them on a cool cellar floor, or in an ice house. In very warm weather, the corks ought to be taken out every day, to let out the carbonic acid air, and the bot- tles again stopped. Another valuable receipt. Boil twelve clean washed, middle sized potatoes, and at the same time, boil, in another vessel, a handfiil of hops in a quart of water; peel and mash the potatoes in a mortar or bowl; pour part of the hop water, while hot, upon the potatoes, mix them well, and jxiss them through a sieve, then add the remainder of the hop water, and half a tea- cupful of honey, beat all well, and add a small portion of leaven to bring on the fermentation. Put the whole in a stone jug, and set by the fire, in the winter; all the utensils must be scalded every time they are used, and wasJicd perfectly clean. One tea-cupful of the Materia Medico. 545 above potatoe yeast, will answer for two quarts of flour. In summer the yeast ought to be made every second day. HOREHOUND. Marrubeum Vulgare^ Grows among rubbish, flowering from July to Sep. tember. The leaves have a very bitter taste. An infusion or tea of the leaves sweetened, is a very common remedy for colds. A syrup prepared by sim- mering slowly for an hour, a pint of honey in a quart of a strong decoction of the plant, is, from my own ex- perience, an excellent medicine in coughs, or any breast complaint, in doses of a small table- spoonful every two or three hours, or oftener, when the cough is very troublesome. In like manner, a candy prepared by sim- mering slowly half a pint of the juice with a pound of sugar, will be found equally serviceable. In the southern states there is a plant, called wild horehound, growing to the height of one or two feet, of which a tea, prepared by adding one or two handfuls of the fresh leaves, or half the quantity of the dried, to a quart of water, in doses of a gill or more, every two or three hours, acts gently on the skin and bowels, and is used like the Peruvian bark as a tonic in the cure of ague, and bilious fever. HORSE-RADISH. Cochlearia Armoracea^ ' . Grows on the sides of ditches, and damp places, but is cultivated in our gardens for culinary and medicinal purposes. It has long been known as a most powerful antiscorbutic, and when taken freely, it stimulates the nervous system, promotes urine and perspiration, and is thereby usefully employed in palsy, dropsy, scurvy, and dironic rheumatism. The root should be cut into 3Z 546 Materia Medica. small pieces, without bruising, and swallowed in the dose of a table-spoonful without chewing, once or twice a-day, or it may be steeped in wine, and taken in doses of a small wine-glassful. Upon the authority of the celebrated Dr. CuUen, it is, in the form of syrup, excellent in hoarseness, or in the . decline of violent colds and pleurisies. Whether externally or internally employed, horse-radish proves a stimulant; hence it has been found serviceable by chew- ing it in palsy of the tongue, and applied in paralytic complaints to affected parts. The root, scraped, and applied in the form of poultice, to the feet, until some inflammation is produced, in low stages of fever, at- tended with delirium, has also produced good effects. It is said, the root steeped in vinegar, will remove freckles of the face; if so, it deserves to be tried in cases of ring or tetter worm. HOUSELEEK. Sempervivwriy Grows on the roofs of houses and old walls, flowering in July. The juice of this plant, mixed with honey, is said to be of considerable service in the thrush of children. Stewed with cream, it is a great favourite with the country people, for the cure of corns, fresh burns, stings of wasps, bees, and other external inflammations. An infusion of the leaves is also said to be cooling and lax- ative. HYSSOP. Hyssop us, Is cultivated in our gardens. An infusion of the leaves, sweetened with honey, or in the form of syrup, is useful in humoral asthma, coughs, and other disor- ders of the breast and lungs, accompanied with inflam- matory symptoms. Materia Medica, 547 ICE PLANT. Mesembryanthemum^ Grows in woods to the height of six inches, and be- comes white in September; the stalk and leaves are like frozen jelly, and when handled, dissolve as ice. The root pulverized, in doses of a half or tea spoonful, in the morning, is said to be a good remedy for chil- dren troubled with fits; hence it is called by the coun- try people, Fit Root, Adults may take it in much larger doses. INDIAN HEMP, Grows in woods, and on the borders of meadows, three feet high; the stalk is bare for a foot, then spring many branches; leaves numerous, flowers whitish, si- milar to buckwheat, which terminate in seedpods resem- bling a cucumber. The bark of the root in the form of powder, in doses from twenty to thirty grains, or half a tea-spoonful, will generally operates as an emetic and cathartic. In doses of five or six grains, or a wine-glassful of the infusion, every two hours, it promotes perspiration. It has been found beneficial in rheumatism, dropsies, and asthmatic complaints. A table-spoonful of the infusion, half a handful of the bark to a pint of boiling water, given oc- casionally to children in the hooping cough, throws off the phlegm, and prevents straining. INDIAN PHYSIC, OR AMERICAN IPECA- CUANHA. Spiraea Trifoleata^ Grows about two or three feet high, in low woods and meadows. 548 Materia Medica. Professor Barton says, the root, which is the part made use of, is a safe and efficacious emetic. The celebrated Col. Bird, of Virginia, was so ena- moured of this plant, that he wrote a pamphlet on its virtues, which he found, from great and successful prac- tice, in his own very numerous family, to be at least equal if not superior to those of the imported ij -ecacu- anha. In the dose of thirty to forty grains in powder, for an adult, it is one of the most bafe and certain eme- tics. In broken doses of five or six grains, every two hours, it is equally valuable as a sudorific. It may also be given in infusion, a handful to a pint of boiling wa- ter, of which a small tea-cupful may be taken every fif- teen or twenty minutes, until it promotes vomiting. INDIAN TOBACCO. See Emetic Weed, INDIAN TURNIP. Arum Triphyllum^ Grows in meadows and swamps, six or eight inches high, purple stalks, leaves three in number, roundish, and berries of a bright scarlet colour. It is a very acrid plant. An ointment prepared by simmering the fresh root in hog's lard, and one eighth part of wax, is said to be a good application in the scald head. From -he autliority of professor Barton, we learn that the receni root, boiled in milk, has been advanta- geously employed in cases of consumption. He even cites a very striking instance. It is also recommended in the asthma, and hooping cough, in the form of con- serve, made of a pound of the peeled root pounded fine- ly in a mortar, with three pounds of loaf sugar; dose, a tea-spoonful twice or thrice a-day. Materia Medico. 54r9 INDIGO WEED, OR WILD INDIGO. Sophora Tinctoria^ Grows in great abundance on the road sides, and in the woods, and is used by travellers in the middle states to drive away the flies. A decoction of this plant in large doses, is said to operate powerfully on the stomach and bowels, but in smaller doses of a wine-glassful, proves a mild lax- ative. An infusion, or tea, is said to be cooling and good in fevers; and in the form of fomentation and poultice, to arrest the progress of mortification, espe- cially if a little of the infusion be taken internally at the same time. An ointment prepared by simmering the bark of the root in cream, fresh butter, or lard, has been re- commended as a good application to sore nipples or ul- cers of the breast. IPECACUANHA, AMERICAN, Indian Physic IVY. See Calico Tree. JAMES' TOWN, OR JIMSON WEED. See Thorn Apple. JERUSALEM OAK, OR WORMSEED. Chenopodium Anthelfne?itkum, Has long been employed to expel worms. One or two tea-spoonfuls of the seed with molasses or honey, is generally given to a child two or three years old in the morning on an empty stomach, and the dose is some- times repeated at bed-time. It ought to be continued for several days. When there is an aversion to using 550 Materia Medica. it in this form, the seed may be boiled in milk, and taken in doses of one or two wine-glassfuls, or the ex- pressed juice of the plant sweetened, may be exhibited in doses of a table-spoonful. The oil, which is prepared from the seed, possesses the same virtue, and is found a more convenient form of giving the medicine. JUNIPER, COMMON. Juniperus Communis, An evergreen shrub, growing on dry barren com- mons, and hilly ground. A strong decoction, made of a handful of the tops and berries to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea- cupful three or four times a day, has long been employ- ed in dropsy, scurvy, and gravel, or difficulty of urine. The oil of juniper possesses the same properties in a high degree, and imparts them to ardent spirits. The peculiar flavour, and well known diuretic effect of Hol- land gin, are owing to this oil. LAMBKILL. See Calico Tree. LAUREL. See Calico Tree. LAVENDER THRIFT. Statice. Lzmonium^ Grows on the sea shore, on salt marshes, flowering from July to September. The stem is naked, branched, and about a foot high; the leaves long and pointed; the flowers blue, and growing on long spikes on the tops of the branches. According to Dr. Hughes of Providence, and Dr. Baylies of Dighton, a decoction of the root has been tried with success in aphthous state of fever, and ulcer- ous sore throat, as a most powerful antiseptic. In large Materia Medica. 551 doses it operates as an active emetic, and in smaller as a strong expectorant. LEMON TREE. Citrus Medictty Is now cultivated in the southern states, and holds the first place among the cooling and antiseptic vege- tables, to correct the putrid tendency of animal food in summer. The acid of lemons, from its antiseptic properties, has long been employed as a remedy in the scurvy. My highly esteemed friend, Dr. Cutbush, says, from the commencement of our navy, it has been used on board the ships of war with very great success, in pre- venting, as well as curing this disease. The fresh fruit is preferred. Lemon, or lime juice, diluted with water, and the addi- tion of a little sugar, forming lemonade, serves as one of the most grateful beverages in bilious and nervous fe- vers. When saturated with common table salt, it proves a valuable medicine in dysentery, putrid sore throat, and remittent fever. In diarrhoea and diabetes, where the aliments are apt to run off in their crude state, this mixture is said to be a most efficacious remedy. A table- spoonful of lemon juice, fifteen or twenty grains of salt of tartar, or salt of wormwood, with the addition of a little water, swallowed in a state of effervescence, is ex- cellent to stop nausea, and allay febrile heat. The acid of lemons is a common remedy against narcotic vege- table poisons, such as opium. Either of the following methods is recommended for preserving the juice of lemons or limes. Boil the juice after straining, and bottle it, or squeeze the fruit, put the juice and pulp into a bottle, cover the top with an inch of oil, cork and rosin the bottle. The juice is supposed to feed upon the pulp. Before using the juice, the pulp and oil must be carefully taken out. The dried peel of lemons is a grateful aromatic, and as a 552 Alateria Medica. stomachic, generally constitutes one of the ingredients of bitters. LETTUCE, WILD. ■ Lactuca Virosoy Grows about four feet high, about hedges and the borders of meadows. It has three different kinds of ! leaves; those proceeding from the root are slightly toothed, and those attached to the flower stalks are arrow-shaped, pointed, and minute; the flowers are yellow and small, the leaves are milky, and smell like opium. An extract prepared from the expressed juice of the leaves, gathered when in flower, and given in doses of from five to ten grains twice or thrice a day, is said to be a powerful diuretic, and of great efiicacy in the cure of dropsy. LICHEN, OR LUNGWORT. Lichen, Is a thin shell or skin which grows on the bark of the white oak tree, resembling the lungs, from whence it is called lungwort. It is said to possess the same qualities as the Iceland moss, or lichen, so celebrated in the cure of consump- tion. An infusion, a handful to a quart of boiling water, used as a common drink, or a strong decoction formed into syrup, with honey or sugar, may be taken in doses of a wine-glassful three or four times a day. It is also said t» be a useful medicine in the hooping cough. Materia Medico, 553 LIFE ROOT, Grows on the borders of meadows, about two feet high, leaves large and saw-edged; flowers yellow, and the root small and fibrous. An infusion of this plant, a handful to a quart of boiling water, taken in doses of a tea-cupful five or six times a-day, is said to be an excellent remedy for the gravel. LOBELIA, OR BLUE CARDINAL FLOWERS. Lobelia Syphilitica^ Grows abundantly in the middle and southern states in moist grounds, and near springs; has an erect stalk three or four feet high; blue flowers; a milky juice, and a rank smell. Professor Barton says this plant was purchased from the northern Indians by the late sir Wm. Johnson, as a remedy in the venereal disease: hence its specific name syphilitica. He doubts, however, its power to cnre the pox: though from its diuretic quality, it certainly has been found useful in gonorrhoea or clap. He states that many persons in the western country, from their igno- rance of botany, have made use of a plant which they call lobelia^ in the venereal complaint. But from the specimen he has received, he believes the plant to be the serratula spicata or spiked sawwoort. It is a power- ful diuretic, and there is good reason to believe that it has been found useful, not only in venereal complaints, but also in cases of gravel. Thus ignorance sometimes leads to knowledge. The lobelia is generally administered in the form of a decoction, a handful of the root and leaves boiled slowly in three pints of w^ter to a quart, of which a gill or more may be taken (hree times a-day. 4 A 554 Mafe?ia Medica, MADDER, WILD. M Riibia Tinctonim, -M Is cultivated in Pennsylvania and South Carolina for dyeinj^ a fine red colour, but also possesses great medi- cinal powers. ll has been highly recommended in visceral obstruc- tions, particularly of the uterus, in coagulations of the blood induced either by falls or bruises, in dropsical complaints, and especially in the rickets. It may be given in powder from five to fifteen grains to children, and from half to a whole drachm three or four times a-day to adults. When taken internally, it possesses the remarkable quality of tinging the urine of a red colour; and produces similar eftects on the bones of animals, when eaten with their food. MAGNOLIA, Goes by several names, as beaver tree, swamp sassa- fras, elk bark, Indian bark. It is an agreeable aromatic tonic bitter medicine. An infusion or decoction of the bark has beennised in the ague and fever, and much celebrated among the western Indians as a remedy in rheumatism. I am in- formed from a respectable source that John Dickinson, esq. author of the celebrated Pennsylvania Farmer's Let- ters, was completely cured of a violent attack of the chronic rheumatism by a strong decoction of the twigs of the magnolia. The species magnolia grandiflora, ever- green laurel, sometimes called tulip tree, grows to the height of eighty feet near Savannah*. The bark of the root of this tree is also used as a substitute for the Peruvian bark in intermittent fevers. The cones or seed-vessels Materia Mcdica, 555 ©f the magnolia, which is commonly called cucumhcr- trce, has been advantageously used in Virginia in liie form of tincture, in rheumatic complaints. MAIDEN HAIR. Asplc7iiutn Trichomanes^ Called also milk waste, spleenwort. Grows on old walls, rocks, and shady stony places, generally to the height of seven or eight inches; leaves very fine and soft and spotted underneath; stalks of a dark purple colour; flowers from May to October. Its leaves have a mucilaginous sweetish taste, without any peculiar odour. An infusion, by pouring a quart of boiling water on a handful of the dry herb, sweetened with honey, and taken in quantity of a tea-cupful every hour or two, or a spoonful in the form of syrup, is said to be good in tickling coughs, hoarseness, and disorders of the breast, proceeding from acrid humours, in irregularities of the menses, and obstructions of the viscera. MALE FERN. See Fern Male. MALLOW, COMMON. Maha Syhestris, Grows in hedges, foot paths, and among rubbish; flowering from June to August. The leaves possess a mucilaginous sourish taste. A decoction of this plant is said to be useful in dy- senteries and gravel complaints, though it is chiefly em- ployed as an emollient poultice to produce suppuration. 556 Materia Medica. MANDRAKE, OR MAY-APPLE. 9 Podophyllum Peltatum^ ^ Grows on low grounds, two or three feet high, leaves generally three, broad at the base, and terminating in a sharp point; flowers yellow; the fruit resembling a lime, or small yellow apple, which is much admired by some. The root is an excellent purgative, and may be taken in doses from ten to thirty grains in substance, or double the quantity infused in a gill of water. Dr. Little, of Pennsylvania, esteems it preferable to jalap. The ho- nourable Paul Hamilton, who often used it, directs equal parts of the juice and molasses to be mixed, and a table- spoonful taken every hour or two until it operates. The best time of gathering the mandrake, for medici- nal purposes, is in autumn when the leaves have turned yellow, and are about falling off. The Indians dry it in the shade, and powder it for use. MARSH MALLOW. Althaea Officinalis y Grows in marshes and wet places. The leaves have a soft woolly surface, feelingly like velvet. The flow- ers are of a white pale flesh colour, and appear in Au- gust. Every part of the marsh mallow, and especially the root, when boiled, yields a copious mucilage; on account of which it is employed in emollient cataplasms or poul- tices, for softening and maturating hard tumours. It is likewise of eminent service in the form of infusion, in asthma, hoarseness, dysentery and gravel. MARSH ROSEMARY. See Lavender Thrift. Materia Medic a. 557 MASTERWORT. Imperatoria^ Grows in meadows and rich soils, two feet high; leaves three together, saw-edged, and spear-shaped; flowers in June. The root of this plant is a warm and grateful medi- cine in flatulency, weakness of the stomach, and bowels, and dropsical affections. It may be taken in the form of powder, decoction, or tincture. One drachm, or a tea- spoonful of the powder in a glass of wine, or spirits, and taken an hour before the fit, has frequently prevented the ague. The decoction or infusion is made of one hand! u I in a quart of boiling water, and the dose a tea- cupful three times a day, MAY APPLE, Mandrake. MAY WEED, OR WILD CAMOMILE. Cotula FcetidOy Grows about two feet high, in pastures near fences; the flowers yellow, resembling camomile flowers, and are frequently used as a substitute for them. MEZEREON. Daphne Mezereumy Called also spurge laurel, dwarf bay. Grows plenti- fully in woods and shady places near the Ohio, and flowers in the month of February or March. The fruit is a berry, in which is found a single seed. The leaves are spear-shaped, and the flowers grow of a beautiful red or rose colour. 558 Materia Medica. J The bark of the root of this plant is the part used im medicine, and has an extremely acrid burning taste iiil the mouth and fauces. 1 Dr. Withering asserts that a patient who lived underl extreme difficulty of swallowing for three years, wasJ effectually cured in two months, by chewing the rooti as often as she could support its irritating effects. The! fresh root scraped, and applied to the surface of the skin,! affords an efficacious blister — when taken internally, it determines to the surface, and has been found great- ly serviceable in rheumatism and obstinate cutaneous diseases. Its principal use, however, is in the venereal disease, in the last stage, or when mercury has failed. It is particularly efficacious in relieving nocturnal pains, ajid removing venereal nodes. One gill to half a pint of the decoction, made of two drachms, or a handful of the bark, with an equal quantity of liquorice root, boiled in three pints of water to a quart, may be taken three or four times a day. MILK, OR SILK WEED. Vincetoxlcum^ Grows by the road sides, and on sandy ground, about three feet high; the stalk square; leaves oval and milky;^ flowers yellow, which terminate in a pod resembling a cucumber, filled with down, which when ripe, is blowi^ away. A handful of the root boiled slowly in a quatt of water for half an houf, and given in doses of a gill or more three or four times a day, is reputed to be an ef- fectual remedy in the cure of dropsy, and serviceable in catarrhs, scrophulous and rheumatic disorders, and gra- vel complaints. Materia Medica. 559 MILKWORT, COMMON. Polygala Vulgaris^ Thrives in dry pastures, and flowers in June and July. Its roots possess an extremely bitter taste, to- gether with all the virtues of the American rattlesnake root. A table- spoonful of a strong decoction of the root, two handfuls boiled slowly in three pints of water, to a quart, and taken every hour or two, promotes perspira- tion, as well as expectoration, and has therefore been used with advantage in colds, pleurisies, and other dis- orders of the breast. MILTWASTE. See Maiden Hair. MINT. Stt Peppermint. MISLETO OF THE OAK. Viscunij Is to be found on several kinds of trees. That which grows on the oak is said to have cured epilepsy or fits. It is directed that the misleto be separate^ from the oak, about the last of November, gradually dried, and when pulverized, confined iii a bottle well corked; to be given in doses of a tea-spoonful three or four times a day, gradually increasing the dose according to its effects. 560 Materia Medical MOORWORT, BROADLEAVED. Andromeda Mariana, Called wicke at the southward. A strong decoction of this plant is extremely useful as a wash in that dis- agreeable ulceration of the feet, which is called toe-itch, and ground itch, a very common complaint among the negroes and lower class of people in South Carolina and Georgia. MOTHERWORT. Leonurus Cardiaca, Grows in waste places, and flowers in July and Au- gust. The flowers are in thorny whorls, purplish within, and white on the outside; the leaves are opposite, two to each whorl; they have a strong, disagreeable odour, and bitter taste. An infusion of this plant is a common domestic me- dicine in fainting, and disorders of the stomach. It is said to be peculiarly adapted to some constitutions af- fected with nervous and hysterical agitations; and that if taken at bed -time, procures refreshing sleep, when opium and laudanum had failed. MOUNTAIN TEA, OR DEERBERRY. Gaultheria Procumbens, It spreads very extensively over the more barren, mountainous parts of the United States. A strong infusion of this plant, a large handful to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea- cupful three or four times a day, is esteemed useful in asthma, and for promoting the menstrual discharge. Materia Medico. HI MOUTH ROOT, OR GOLDEN THREAD. Nig-eliaj Is found in swamps. The stems erect and naked; the leaves grow by threes at the termination of the stems; the white solitary blossoms appear in May; the roots are thread-shaped, and of a bright yellow colour, and possess considerable astringency and bitterness. By the country people the root is employed as a re- medy for the thrush and cancerous sores in the mouths of children. MUGWORT, OR COMMON WORMWOOD. Arteintsia Absinthiumy Grows two or three feet high, on road sides and among rubbish; leaves deeply divided, pointed; on the upper side of a deep green, and on the under soft or downy; flowers small and purplish. An infusion, a handful of the tops to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea-cupful, or a tea-s|)OonfuI of the powdered leaves three or four times a-day, is an admi- rable stomachic in weakness of the stomach, lowness of spirits, and hysterical affections. It is also said to be a useful medicine in difficult menstruation, in inter- miltents, jaundice, and dropsical affections. Externally it is applied in the form of fomentation and poultice to resist putrefaction and relieve the pains of bruises, as well as prevent the swelling and discoloration of the part. MULBERRY TREE. Morus, Nigra et Alba, Its fruit hath the common quality of all other sweet fruits, quenching thirst, abating heat, and proving lax- atiye in its effects. 4B 566 Materia Medica, A syrup made of the juice of the fruit, serves as aa excellent gargle for mitigating inflammations of , the throat, and ulcers of the mouth. The bark of the root of the black mulberry tree, in doses of thirty grains, or half a tea-spoonful of the pow- der, or double the quantity infused in a gill or half a pint of boiling water, or equal parts of a strong decoc- tion and molasses formed into a syrup in dose of a wine- glassful, is an excellent purgative, and has been used with success as a vermifuge, particularly for the tape- worm. The fruit of the common mulberry tree, when pro- perly fermented, and prepared, yields a pleasant vinous liquor, known under the name of mulberry wine. Con- siderable quantities of these berries are likewise consu- med in the cider countries, where they are mixed with the apples, in making a delicious beverage called mul- berry cider. For this purpose, the ripest and blackest mulberries are selected, and the expressed juice is add- ed to the cider, in such a proportion as to impart a per- ceptible flavour. The liquor thus acquires a very plea- sant taste, as well as a deep red colour, similar to that of the finest port wine, both of which continue undimi- nished by age. MULLEIN. Verbascum* The leaves, a handful to a quart of milk, is a com- mon remedy in bowel complaints. In the form of fomentation or poultice, it is employed to relieve the piles, and other painful swellings; and in a dry and pulverized state, to destroy fungous or proud flesh. MUSTARD, BLACK AND WHITE. Sinapisy Nigra et Alba* Mustard used with our food, provokes the appetite, assists digestion, and promotes the fluid secretions, and Materia Aledica, 563 is especially adapted to persons of weak stomachs, or where much acid prevails, as it acts upon the system ge- nerally without producing much heat. A table-spoonful of prepared mustard in a pint of warm water, on an empty stomach, operates as an eme- tic in nervous disorders. A tabie-spoonful of the un- bruised seed taken twice or thrice a-day, proves a gen- tle laxative, increase the urinary discharges, and is useful in chronic rheumatism, asthma, palsy and dropsy. In obstinate intermittents, or ague and fever, or with persons who find the Peruvian bark oppressive at th®' stomach, a tea-spoonful of the whole seeds, or the flour of mustard united with the bark, or any of its substi- tutes, will very frequently succeed in the cure, when a pound of bark alone would not produce the desired cflTect. In languid constitutions, or low stages of fevers, a gill of the seeds mixed with a small handful of horse radish, and infused in a quart of wine, in doses of a wine-glassful occasionally, is a most cordial stimulant. Another excellent form in which mustard may be ta- ken, is that of whey. It is prepared by boiling two or three table-spoonfuls of the seeds bruised, in half a pint of milk, and as much water, till the curd be perfectly separated, to which a little sugar may be added, and of this drink a tea-cupful may be taken three or four times a-day, in nervous fevers. The pov/der of the seeds, mixed with the crumbs of bread or flour, and formed into a poultice with sharp vinegar, is an excellent application to the parts aflfected with rheumatism, and to the soles of the feet, and palms of the hands, in fevers, where there is a languid circula- tion, or cold extremities, or in cases of delirium. NETTLE, STINGING. Urtica, The expressed juice a wine-glassful, or a decoction, one handful to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a-day, is said to be useful in jaundice, asthma, consumption, and gravel com- 564 Materia Medic a. plaints. It is also said that the flower and seeds, in doses of a drachm thrice a-day, may be substituted for the Peruvian bark in ague and fever. Externally it has been employed in restoring excitements to paralytic limbs and other cases of torpor and lethargy. It may be applied by stinging the part with the nettles; or the fresh leaves may be applied to the arms or legs. NIGHTSHADE, AMERICAN. See Pokeweed. \ NIGHTSHADE, DEADLY. Atropa Belladonnay Grows two or three feet high in hedges, among rub- bish, and uncultivated places; flowers dusky brown on the outside, and a dull purple within, appearing single among the leaves in June or July; the berries round, green, changing to red, and when ripe, of a shining black. The whole of this plant is poisonous, and chiK dren allured by its beautiful berries, have too often ex- perienced their fatal eflfects. Like all other strong poisons in the hands of skill it performs wonderful cures in palsy, epilepsy, melancholy, jaundice, dropsy, and cancer. I have, says the great professor Cullen, had a cancer of the lip entirely cured by it. A scirrhosity in a woman's breast, of such a kind as frequently proceed to cancer, I have found entirely discussed by the use of it. In the employment of this dangerous medicine, it is necessary to begin with very email doses. A half a grain of the powdered leaves or root, or two table- spoonfuls of the infusion, prepared by infusing twenty grains in half a pint of boiling water, and strained after cooling, is a sufficient dose for adults to commence with. The dose is to be gradually in- creased, and repeated daily; but as soon as any dan- gerous symptoms occur, its use ought to be suspended for soine days, and afterwards resumed in smaller doses. Externally the powdered leaves are applied to mitigate the pain in cancerous and other ill-conditioned ulcers, Materia Medic a. 565 and the leaves in the form of poultice, to discuss scir- rhous and cancerous tumours. The garden nightshade, growing also on dung-hills, with white flowers, odour of musk, and the berries, when ripe, of a shining black, possess similar virtues of those of the deadly nightshade. From one to Uiree grains of the dried leaves infused in boiUng w\^ter, and taken at bed time, will generally induce a copious perspiration, increase the discharge of urine, and operate as a mild laxative on the following day. If after increasing the dose, some visible effect is not produced, its further use will not avail much. The dose is to be repeated every night, or every other night. In the form of poultice, it haih abated the inflammation of the eyes, painful swellings, and inflammations of the venereal kind, and scrophulous and cancerous tumours. The woody nightshade, called also bitter sweet, be- cause it is first sweet, and then bitter, grows on the sides of ditches, and in moist hedges, climbing upon the bush- es with winding, woody, but brittle stalks. The flowers are in clusters of a blue purple colour, appearing in June or July, and always turning against the sun. The berries are red. This species is not so deleterious as the above tw^o, and it acts more uniformly. Its sensible operation as a medicine, is also by sweat, urine, and stool, and in the form of infusion, is said to be eminently serviceable in acute rheumatism. It has also been found efficacious in jaundice, scurvy, obstruction of the menses, and in ob- stinate cutaneous disorders. An infusion, prepared by adding a pint of boiling water to an ounce or half a handful of the twigs or stalks, either in a fresh or dried state, of which a tea-cupful or more may be taken morn- ing and evening. Another form is made by steeping four ounces of the twigs in a pint of wine. The dose a wine-glassful. In the form of poultice or cataplasm, it is also said to be a powerful discutient of hard tu- mours. For this purpose, boil two or three handfuls of the leaves in wine or vinegar, to which may be added a little flaxseed, and this to be applied warm to indurated or hard tumours. The application of the juice and 566 Materia Medica, leaves to cancerous sores, in some instances, has per formed a cure. OAK. The bark of the oak possesses, in a considerable de- gree, astringent, tonic, and antiseptic properties. Hence we can never be at a loss for a remedy in those diseases in which the Peruvian bark has been recommended. In intermittents, and low stages of fever, in the advanced stage of dysentery, diarrhoea, indigestion, and other diseases of weakness, or loss of tone in the system, I have myself employed internally the black and red oak bark with equal , effects, though in rather larger doses than the Peruvian bark. Many cases have come under my knowledge in practice, of persons, especially chil- dren, reduced to mere skeletons, by protracted disease, of bilious, nervous fever, and bowel complaints, whose stomachs would not retain medicine, being most won- derfully restored to the blessing of health by bathing in a strong decoction of oak bark, not more than milk warm, twice a day. In the year 1809, 1 was requested by my brother. Dr. Thomas Ewell, who had the superintendance of the marine hospital in Washington, to visit some of his pa- tients in the confluent small pox, which had proved fa- tal in several instances. The first case presented to my view, was that of a poor sailor in the last stage of this dreadful disease, and so far gone that it was thought utterly useless to prescribe for him, his coffin being actually ordered. Reflecting, however, on the virtues of the oak bark, I did not myself entirely despair of his case; and, in- stead of passing him by, I ordered a bath of a strong decoction of oak bark to be prepared with all possible despatch, setting, at the same time, some of the soldiers to boil the water, while others hastened to the woods for the bark. When ^vc came to immerse him in it, we found his whole body such a mass of corruption, from the top of his head to the soles of his feet, so filled with Materia Medica. 567 maggots, that there was no other way to bathe him but in a sheet. I directed him to be supplied liberally with, milk toddy, and to repeat the bath every two or three hours. By persevering in this treatment for two or three weeks, gradually diminishing the toddy, and oak bath, as his strength increased, to the astonishment of all the spectators he was miraculously snatched from the jaws of death. When his sight was restored, he was much surprised to see that the astringent waters of the bath had made him look, as he said, as black as a negro, I am happy to add, that of several others in the hospital, who were treated in a similar mode, not one died. In further proof of the tonic and antiseptic virtue of tRe oak bark, I beg leave to cite the following case from Professor Barton. In a case of gangrene of the foot, says this learned professor, from the puncture of a nail, which came under my notice in the course of last summer, I gave to the patient very large quantities of the decoction of oak bark, at the same time that the affected part was con- stantly kept wet with the same decoction, or with a poultice made of bread and milk and the bark. I can- not but ascribe the recovery of my patient to the use of these means, and I am emboldened to recommend the use of this cheap remedy, as one highly worthy their at- tention in similar cases. OAK POISON. See Poism Oak. ONIONS. Allium Cepa^ Possess similar virtues with the garlic, only in a lei4 degree. The disagreeable smell which they impart to the breath may be effectually obviated by eating a few leaves of parsley immediately after the onions. Onions are justly reputed an efficacious remedy in suppression of urine, in dropsies, and in abscess of the 568 Materia Medica. liver. The following exemplification of the virtue of onions in liver complaints, deserves the attention of thq reader. Captain B. Burch, one of the surviving heroes of '76, and father of Mr. Samuel Burch, chief clerk o£ the house of representatives, who, for every thing amiable, is a chip of the old block, was aiBicted with an abscess of the liver, which was deemed incurable by his physicians. Seeing some onions in the room, 'he expressed a wish to eat one. Thinking it a gone tase with him, and no longer a matter of any con- sequence what he ate, his wife immediately gratified his appetite. After eating one or two onions, he found him- self much better, which induced him further to^ndulge his appetite. He subsisted for several weeks entirely on onions, with only the addition of a little salt and bread,, and from using this diet he was restored to perfect health, and is now a very hearty man in his 53d year. This, with innumerable instances of a similar sort, ought to convince the young practitioner, that in the cure of this disease, nature ought always to be consulted, as she seldom or never errs. Upon the high authority of our virtuous and able statesman, the honourable William H. Crawford, onions externally applied, is an invaluable remedy in violent sore throats. This worthy patriot informed me, that one of his children was violently attacked with the croup, at his mansion in Georgi^f a physician was sent for, but before he arrived, the disease became so alarming as to threaten the child with immediate death, if something for its relief was not speedily done. Recollecting to have heard that an ointment of garlic had been employ- ed with beneficial effects in sore throats, he instantly t||td some onions beaten, not having any garlic at hand, to which was added a small portion of hog's lard, and with this mixture, the neck, breast, and back of the child was well rubbed, which in the short space of one hour, relieved all the distressing symptoms. Another case of croup, cured by this application, came under the notice of Mr. Crawford last fall, as he was travelling Materia Medica, 569 j from Georgia to the scat of government. A little girl, ' daughter of the gentleman at whose house he tarried one I night, was seized with this alarming malady, and on his recommending the above remedy, it was employed with the same happy effects. He also stated to me, that while in Paris, he was af- ' fllcted with a violent sore throat, which, not yieldijftg to the usual remedies, he directed some onions to be beaten, and had them applied to the soles of his feet and legs, 1 over which his stockings were drawn. The happy re- f suit was, that he had a good night's rest, and in the morn- ing found his throat entirely cured. He communicated the cure wrought on himself to a French lady who was greatly distressed with a sore throat, which induced her to make the experiment, and the fortunate rebult>^as very remarkable. ORANGE TREE. Citrus Aurantium, Is now cultivated in the southern states, and deser- vedly esteemed for its grateful acid juice, which, by quenching thirst and diminishing heat, is of'(f|fnsidera- ble use in febrile disorders. From its virtues to resist putrescency, it has always and most deservedly held the first place on the list of antiscorbutics. The following is a receipt for making orange wine: Take the expressed juice of forty sour oranges> five gal- lons of water, and fifteen p6unds sugar; boil the wat^er and sugar for twenty minutes, skim constantly, and when cooled to a proper heat for fermentation, add the juice and outer rinds oj the fruit, rasped or sheered off, putting all in a proper keg; lea^e it open for two or three days, and then biing it close for six months. if} PAPAU. See Custard Apple. PAPOOSE ROOT. See Cohush. 4C 570 Materia Medic a. PARSLEY-LEAVED YELLOW ROOT. Zanthoriza Apiifolia^ Is a native of the southern states. The stems reac* the height of three feet, and are somewhat thicker than the barrel of a goose quill. The root is from three to twelve inches long, and about the diameter of a man's little finger, sending off numerous scions, sometimes two feet in length, by which means it spreads considerably. The flowers appear before the leaves, very early in th spring. Both the stem and the root are of a bright yellow co-, lour, and possess a strong and bitter taste. In medi- cinal virtues, it is nearly allied to the celebrated Colum- bo root. The powdered ste m and root, in the dose of two scruples, is highly recommended in all cases requir- ing bitter and tonic medicines.* According to professor Barton, we have a very com- mon plant in various parts of the United Stales, par- ticularly in the rich soil adjacent to ihe Ohio and its branches, in the western parts of Virginia, Pennsylva- nia, and Kentucky, which is commonly called Yellow Root. He describes the root of this plant as being a very powerful bitter, perhaps not less so than the pre- ceding, and very popular as a tonic medicine. The usual forms of administering it are powder, tincture, and. infusion. This latter has t^en employed as a wash in * The above is the character of this plant, as given by my excellent friend, the late Professor Woodhouse. Friendship is often partial; but eulog-y, to be just^ must employ bright colours to paint the character of such a man as Dr.. Woodhouse. W ith ikut rare benevolence which imparts its noblest ardor to friendship, he combined a genius which threw a solar radiance over the dark abyss of chemical science, besides illuminating other walks of useful know- ledge. To darken the gloom of so awful a dispensation, it pleased the great FA- THER of LIGH I S to take into his presence another star of equal lustre with Dr VV(;odh()use. I mean that refulgent genius. Dr. Shaw, late professor of Ch> mistry in the university of Maryland. The friends of an art so import- ant as Chenaistry, will long have cause to mourn the early extinction of those bright luminaries. Materia Medica, 571 inflammation of the eyes. It is supposed this is the plant which some of the Indians make use of to cure can- cers. PARSLEY, WILD. Fetrosellinian, Grows in meadows, and among rocks near the sea; 'Stems firm, near six feet high; long, thick root, strong smell, acrid taste; flosvers in July, and kidney shaped seed, which alone are used in medicine, as a powerful diuretic. A small handful of the seed, boiled in a quart of water, and sweetened with honey, in doses of a tea cupful every hour or two, is celebrated as a remedy in suppression of urine, or gravel complaints. PEACH TREE. Amygdalus Fersica. Both the flowers and leaves are excellent cathartics, and ought to be preserved by every family. A tea- spoonful of a strong infusion, sweetened, and taken every hour or two, will operate mildly on the bowels, without griping as senna does. Of the syrup, prepared by boil- ing slowly the juice of the leaves, with nearly an equal quantity of molasses, honey, or sugar, a table- spoonful to children, and a wine-glassful to adults, will also prove a mild laxative medicine. I have myself witnessed its good effects in St. Anthony's fire and measles, and have no doubt of its utility in other diseases requiring gentle laxatives. The honourable George M. Troup, with Colonel David M'Cormick, both of Georgia, and my most inti- mate friends, on a visit to one of their cotton plantations just settled in the interior part of the state, and where there was neither medicine nor physician, were taken dangerously ill of the bilk)us fever. A good neighbour hearing they were ill, went to see them, and prescribed 572 Materia Medica. what he called " a?i excellent physic which was sim- ply a strong infusion of peach leaves, to be taken in doses from a gill to half a pint every two or three hours. It operated on the stomach, bowels, and skin; and by persevering in the use of it for a few days, they were happily restored to health. A decoction, prepared by boiling a handful of the dri. ed leaves in a quart of water to a pint and a half, and taken in doses of a tea-cupful every two or three hours, is reputed, upon respectable authority, to have proved an effectual remedy in many cases of affections of the kidnies or gravel complaints, as also in cases of voiding blood by urine, which had resisted the usual remedies. PENNYROYAL. Mentha Pule^ium. An infusion, a handful to a quart of boiling water, a tea-cupful the dose three times a-day, has long been esteemed in hysteric complaints and obstructions of the menses. Dr. Withering says, that the expressed juice of pennyroyal, with a little sugar or honey, a tea-cup- ful every two or three hours, is a useful medicine in the hooping cough. PEPPERMINT. Mentha Piperita^ Is an excellent stomachic in flatulent colics, languors, hysteric cases, and vom.iting. The usual modes of ad- ministering it, are infusion, the distilled water, and the essential oil. This last, united with rectified spirits of wine, forms the essence of peppermint, so highly es- teemed. In nausea, cholera morbus, obstinate vomiting, and griping, pcpptrnnnt, infused in spirits, and applied as hot as can be endured to the stomach and bowels, will be found a most valuable remedy. Materia Medica, 573 A lady of the first distinction, in Alexandria, was seized with a violent fit of the colic, bringing on a weakness and irritability of the stomach, with nau- sea and vomiting mcessantly. Two eminent physicians seni for could prescribe nothing that did any service. Dr. Craik being called in, immediately ordered a large cataplasm of stewed mint in spirits, to be applied as warm as it could be borne to the pit of the stomach and aMomen. It operated like a charm. The distressing nausea and vomiting left her, the aperient medicines were then retained, and the obstinate constipated state of the bowels was speedily removed.* * To heighten my satisfaction in this cure, it was wroug^ht by a man, of whom I can never think without feeling the most tender sentiments of grati- tude; I mean my uncle. Dr. Jumes Craik, with whom I was then a student in Alexandria. From the double motive of pleasure to myself and profit to others, I beg^ to sketch a short outline of Dr. Craik. Habits of temperance, early adopted and steadily adhered to, imparted to his constitution, though naturally delicate, a degree of vigor and vivacity that carried him through life very pleasurably, till his eightieth year. After he retired from practice, he continued daily to take considerable exercise; and such was his activity, that, but a short time before his death, he walked from his country seat to Alexandria, a distance of eight miles! The virtues which adorn the husband, the parent, the friend, and the mas- ter, have seldom been seen to shine with more durable lustre than in Dr. Craik. In reward of his virtues, Heaven was pleased to distinguish him with un- common favours. For upwards of forty years, he was honoured in an extra* ordinary degree, with the friendship of the great Washington, being all that time his companion and physician. This, however, was nothing compared to the happiness lie enjoyed in marriage with a lady, who, for all the charms ** of a mind dluinincd tkce, and all the graces of truth, goodness, and harmo ny of love," never had her superior among the fairest daughters of Eve. " So like an angel did she spend her days. So like a blessed saint's, were all her ways; So bland, so gentle^^all her actions were, One would have thought her an immortal here?^ After more than fifty years of the happiest life. Dr. Craik was removed to those scenes where bliss immortal reigns. But their separation was short. " He first deceased, she for a few months tried To live without him— lik'd it not, and died." 574 Materia Medica, PEPPER, RED OR CAYENNE. M Capsicum A?inum, Is cultivated in our gardens; it is a powerful stimu- lant, and has been found beneficial in chronic rheuma- tism. I'hose who are subject to flatulence will find be- nefit in using it with vegetables and soup. In cases of violent pain or cramp in the stomach, no medicine is superior to a strong infusion of red pepper, one or two pods to half a pint of spirits, in dose from a half to a wine-glassful. It is also useful, both as a medicine and gargle, in putrid sore throat, when infused in water. Steeped in spirits and applied warm to the extremities in chronic rheumatism, or low stages of nervous fever, when the circulation is languid, it has produced the most happy effects. PINKROOT, CAROLINA. Spigelia Mar Handicap Grows abundantly in the southern states, and is de- servedly esteemed a vermifuge^ or destroyer of worms. An infusion, a handful to a quart of boiling water, and one or two tea-cupfuls night and morning, is the usual form and dose. With the addition of milk and sugar, children will take it almost as readily as their tea. It sometimes occasions disagreeable affections of the eyes; when this occurs, suspend the use of the medicine until these symptoms disappear, and then select from another parcel, or make tea of the tops only, as it is supposed the deleterious effects are in consequence of some other root being attached to it. Pinkroot is also considered a valuable medicine in fevers, as is verified daily, when given to children in a febrile state for a vermifuge, when no other effect has been produced than a removal of the fever. Materia Medica. 575 PISS WORT. See Flea Bane. PLANTAIN. Flaiitago^ Has long been employed as an antidote against the bites of snakes, spiders, and other venemous insects. The juice, extracted from the whole of the plant, is gene- rally given in doses of two tal:>le spoonfuls every hour, or oftcner, until the patient is relieved. It is sometimes given in conjunction with horehound or rue. The leaves bruised are considered by some a good apphcation to fresh wounds. PLEURISY ROOT. Afscleptas Deciimbens^ Has a variety of names, as butterfly weed, flux root, decumbent swallow wort. It is a beautiful plant, grow- ing two or three feet high under fences and upland pas- tures. The flowers are of a bright orange colour, and appear in July and August. These are succeeded by long slender pods containing the seed, which have a de- licate kind of silk attache d to them. The root is spindle or carrot- shaped, of a light brownish colour on the out- side, white within. This plant possesses great medicinal virtues, and ought therefore to be cultivated in our gardens. It has long been employed as a remedy in the treatment of vio- lent cold and pleurisies. No medicine is better calcu- lated than this to produce general and plentiful perspi- ration without heating the body, and hence its well-me- rited fame in curi.ig the disease, which name it bears. Mr. Thomson Mason, of Virginia, was among the first who noticed the virtues of this plant, and from his long 576 Materia Medica, experience of its utility in pleurisy, strongly recommen- ded it as a specific. He states, that after the use of an emetic, and the loss of some blood, in the incipient stage, he administered, of the pleurisy root finely powdered, as much as would lie upon the point of a case-knife in a cufJ'of warm water, and repeated the dose every two hours until the patient recovered, which happened fre- quently in a very few days. By these simple means Mr. M. cured great numbers. VVe have also many of the most respectable physicians celebrating its virtues in pleurisy, and other recent af- fections of the breast. A tea- cupful of a strong infusion, a handful to a quart of boiling water, is given every two or three hours. Professor Barton says the root of this plant in powder possesses a purgative quality, and that he has used it with advantage in dysentery. In Vir- ginia also it has been used with great effect in this com- plaint. This root is frequently resorted to by country people for the relief of pains of the stomach from flatu- lence and indigestion, hence it is called by some wind- root. My honourable friend, Paul Hamilton, esq. ascribes the same virtues of curing pleurisies and dysentery to a plant that grows in South Carolina, and which is also called Pleurisy Root, Asclepias Erectus. He thus describes it: It grows in rich high lands. The root has the ap- pearance and taste of a small, long, sweet potatoe; the stalk erect; the leaves resembling the persimmon leaf, is situated transversely, and when broken, it throws out a viscid milk; blossonis in May and June. The blos- soms are a cream colour, with purple centres. Twenty grains of this root in powder, he says, given in warm water or tea, is excellent in flatulent colic; and the same quantity repeated every two hours, in pleurisy, will sel- dom fail to bring on a perspiration, while its pectoral effects are admiral:)le. Materia Medica, B77' POISON OAK. I^hus Toxicodendron^ Embraces several species, the most dangerous of which is the swamp sumach. The poison may bt- com- municated, not only by the touch, but also by the smoke, smell or steam, producinc^ an eruption on the skin, with pain and itchiui*;, and sometimes attended with swollen head and fever. One of the best remedies which has come under my notice, is a wash of crude sal ammoniac and corrosive sublimate, two drachms of the former to one of the latter, in a quart of water, used externally twice or thrice a-day, with a dose or two of salts, or an infusion of senna and salts. I have lately been inform- ed, from a source which can be relied on, that lime wa- ter excels any other application as a wash in this dis- tressing affection of the skin. The species called some- times poison wood, has a low shrubby stalk, the leaves somewhat heart-shaped, the flowers small, the berries round, and of a yellowish grey colour when ripe. Dr. Anderson, of Hull, has employed the leaves of this spe- cies in doses from half a grain to four grains, three times a-day, with success in paralytic cases. Poison vine, called also poison creeper, has a slen- der stem, and frequenily climbs to the top of our tallest trees. The flowers, which appear in June, arc small, of a light yellow colour, and have a delightful odour. An extract of the leaves, two grains to a dose, and increased, has been successfully employed in paralytic affections, as well as an infusion in tetter- worm and scald head. Professor Barton says, that a decoction has been used with seeming advantage in cases of consumption; and others say, that a decoction of the root is serviceable in asthma. 4D V 578 Materia Medica, POKE. WEED. Phytolacca Decandra^ Is known by a variety of names, as American night- shade, coacum, garget, skoke. The berries steeped in spirits, have long been employed in the chronic rheuma- tism. It has, however, sometimes failed, which may have been owing to the peculiarity of constitution, or to the inertness of the bounce or tincture from age, an effect often observed by professor Barton, as also by myself. From the authority of this learned professor, the juice of the ripe berries, inspissated to the state of an extract, and spread upon a rag, or upon the leaf of the plant, is an excellent application to scrofulous or indolent tumours. The juice of the leaves has been ap- pHed in the same manner with equal advantage. An ointment of the leaves with lard is good in various kinds of ulcers. The roots, bruised, are sometimes applied to the hands and feet of the patients in ardent fevers. To make an extract, expose to moderate and continued heat, the juice of the berries or leaves, until by evapo- ration, it thickens to the consistence of honey. It may also, be made from the root, which is equally efficacious. Boil the roots for some time, strain the decoction, and then reboil it to a thick consistence. Other virtues have been recently ascribed to this plant by respectable phy- sicians. An infusion of the leaves is recommended externally as an admirable remedy for the piles. One ounce of the root steeped in a pint of wine, and given to the quan- tity of two table- spoonfuls, is said to operate mildly as an emetic. It is also said that this plant may be relied on as an efficacious remedy for the venereal disease, in its various stages, even Vvithout the aid of mercury. From my own experience of the virtues of poke- weed, I can recommend it as a most valuable medicine in rheu- matic and gouty affections, as also in nocturnal pains, and obstinate ulcerations in the venereal disease, brought Materia Me die a. 579 on by the excessive use of mercury. The usual form of exhibition is the bounce, a wine-glassful three times a-dav. The bounce is prepared by filling a jug with the whole berries when ripe, and then pouring as much spirits to them as the vessel will contain. An ointment, prepared by simmering slowly the leaves or a handful of the root scraped in a pint of hog's lard, with a small portion of beeswax, has been used with great success in cancers, and various kinds of ul- cers. POLYGONUM. An infusion of it, as a diet drink, is a powerful promo- ter of urine, and very useful in gravel complaints. POLYPODY, COMMON. Poly podium^ Grows on old walls, shady places, and at the roots of trees, flowering from June to October. The root has a sweetish taste, but by long boiling, becomes bitter. An infusion of half an ounce of the fresh root in half a pint of boiling water, in doses of a wine-glassful every hour or two, operates as a mild laxative. POMEGRANATE. Punica^ Is cultivated in the southern gardens. The fruit is agreeable to the palate, and possesses the general pro- perties of subacid fruits. Its rind boiled in milk, and drank freely, or in powder, a tea-spoonful for a dose, three times a-day, has been used with success, in diar- rhoeas, dysenteries, and other diseases requiring astrin- gent medicines. The flowers possess the virtues of the rind, only in a less degree. 580 Materia Medka. POPLAR TREE, OR WHITE WOOD. ^ Liriodendrum TuUphfera, The bark of this noble tree, as well as the root, is a very strong bitter, and considerably aromatic. In intermittents, in the last stage of dysentery, and other diso) ders requiring tojiic medicines, it is consider- ed hut little inferior to the Peruvian bark, and is gene- rally emplo} ed in similar doses and forms. There is another species of poplar, the aspen tree, populus trcmula^ the bark of which, according to pro- fessor Barton, is also an excellent tonic and stomachic. POPPY, WHITE. Papaver Sommferum^ Grows in our gardens, and yields a juice, which, when inspissated, to a proper consistence, is called opium. According to the experiments of Dr. S. Ricketson, of Duchess county. New- York, the opium obtained from our poppies, is equal, if not superior to the im- ported. With respect to the method of cultivating the plant, and preserving the opium, we shall insert the directions gi\en l)y Dr. Ricketson. " The poppy seeds should be planted about the mid- dle of jViay, in rich moist ground, an inch deep and ten or twelvt inches apart, and kept clean. When the plants are arrived to the state of flowering, on a sun- shining day, cutoff the stalks, at about an inch distance from the flowers, and as soon as the juice appears, which it does at first equally well on the part of the stalks cut off* with the flowers, as on the standing part, collect it with a small scoop, or penknife. After the juice ceases to appear on the standing stalk, it should be cut off about an inch lower, when it will be found to Materia Medica, 581 yield almost as freely as before, and repeated as long as any juice appears. The juice, when collected, should be put into an evaporating pan, placed in the sun's heat, and frequently stirred, till it becomes of ^^consistence to De lormed into pills, or made into rolls for keeping and exportation. The quantity of opium that may be preserved, depends very much on the largeness of our plants, and the care used in collecting it. From one pop- py plant, 1 have obtained seven grains of opium. If any would choosf to have the opium freed from its impuri- ties, it may be easil\ done, by pressing the juice before it is inhj)issattd, through a iiuen strainer; but if pains be ta- ken, according to the foregoing directions, I believe there will be little or no occasion for it." A 'strong decoction of the dried heads mixed with half the quantity of sugar, or honey, and formed into a syrup, by simmering slowly by a gentle fire for an hour, is occasionally used in doses of a table-spoonful in coughs and breast complaints, on account of its anodyne efiects. Poppy heads are also used externally in fomen- tations and poultices, either alone, or conjoined with the leaves of southern wood, camomile flowers, or other ingredients. POTATOE, SWEET. Convolvulus Batata. From this root Bowen's patent sago is prepared, which forms a very nutritious jelly, like arrow root, and is prepared in the same manner; to which the reader is referred. The process generally used for procuring the powder of the sweet potatoe, is to grate the clean roots, wash the mass through brass sieves of different sizes, and col- lect the flour at the bottom of the vessel which receives the fluid; finally, dry it in pans either by the fire or in the sun. The vine of the sweet potatoe, supports the famous insect, called the potatoe fly, which, from repeated ex- 582 Materia Medica. periments, is found fully equal in all respects to the best Spanish flies. The potatoe flies generally make their appearance about the last of July or first of Au- gust, and may be collected in great abundance morning and evening, by shaking them from the leaves in a ves- sel of hot water, and afterwards drying them in the sun. These insects will also feed upon tlie vine of the Irish potatoe. As they can be procured in immense quantities annually, with but little trouble, every family should carefully collect them. POTATOE, WILD. Convolvulus Panduratus^ Grows in low grounds and sandy soils, near running water. It trails along the ground several feet, much like a grape vine; the root very large, hard, and white, running very deep in the earth; the leaves triangular, the flowers are whitish with a purple tinge, and bell- shaped. It is called wild rhubarb, and from the article whose name it bears, is employed as a purgative in doses from a tea to a table-spoonful of the powdered root. Professor Barton says, the root in powder or decoction has been much recommended in Virginia, and other parts of the United States, in cases of gravel. The de- coction is prepared by boiling slowly a handful of the root sliced or bruised in three pints of water to a quart, of which, in gravel complaints, a tea-cupful may be taken four or five times a day. PRICKLY ASH, and PRICKLY YELLOW WOOD. Zanthoxylum^ Possess the same virtues. Both species arc covered with numerous prickles, whence the name. Both the Materia Medica, bark and berry are of a hot acrid taste, and when chew- ed, powerfully promote spittle. It is used in this way to cure the tooth-ach, as well as by putting some with- in the hollow, also to cure the palsy of the tongue. A decoction, or infusion of the bark of the root, a small handful to a quart of boiling water, in doses of half a pint three or four times a day, has long been em- ployed with great success in chronic rheumatism, para- lytic affections, and venereal disease. There is no me- dicine which I have found so effectual in relieving noc- turnal pahis, and disposing venereal ulcers to heal, as the prickly ash in the above form and doses. A tincture, prepared by steeping half a pint of the berries, or a handful of the bark, in a bottle of spirits, is much esteemed as a remedy in doses of a wine-glass- ful in flatulent colics. It is sometimes employed in thi# form, in cold phlegmatic habits, afflicted with the rheu- matisro. PRICKLY PEAR, Grows on sandy lands, and rocky places. A large handful of the pear cut in slices, boiled in a quart of milk, and taken in doses of a gill every morn- ing, is reputed to be of great benefit in scurvy, dropsy, cancers, and cutaneous eruptions; and that the inner soft mucilage of the pear, while green, on a rag, to ulcers morning and night, is very efiicacious. It is also said that a fresh piece of the inner side of the pear, applied twice a day to corns, after soaking the feet in warm water, and paring off the horny part, will in a few days perform a cure. * PRIDE OF INDIA, OR CHINA. Melia Azedarach^ Is now completely naturalized to the southern states^ The public walk and streets of Savannah and Augusta, arc ornamented by rows of this tree, a mile long, which 584 Materia Medica. furnish a most delightful shade against the scorchin sun, and adds not less to the healthiness than to the beauty of these cities. Independent of its luxuriant ver- dure, and cooling shade, it is highly valuable for its medicinal properties, being now ascertained to be one the best vermifuges in nature. Many physicians in the southern states, have witness- ed its remarkable effects in destroying and di.slodging worms. It has been even found a remedy against the tape-worm. I have not myself made use of this medicine, possibly because of having witnessed the deleterious effects of the berries on some pigs and a parrot. In the fall of the year 1795, at a country seat which I then owned, in Lancaster County, Virginia, a sow with eight or ten pigs came into the yard where I had seve- ral trees of the Pride of China, and observing the pigs to eat with avidity the berries, which were dropped on the ground, I had many of them thrown from the tree, and in a few hours all the pigs were seized with the common symptoms of inebriation, and died. The sow did not appear lo be the least affected, although she also ate of them. The death of the pigs would not have operated so strongly on my mind, had it not been for a parrot, which not long after fell a victim to those ber- ries. This enchanting bird, which spoke many words as plainly as a human person, and which for several years had been a pet in the family of Dr. Andrew Robertson, the father of Mrs. E****, had not long arrived at its new home, before it was tempted to eat of the fruit of this tree. A gentleman who was not appri- zed of the deleterious properties of this berry, presented the much-admired Poll with one of them, which she soon ate, and relished so well, as loudly to call out, give me some moref^^ give me some moreV After consuming several, she in a short time fell into a state of stupefaction, followed by a violent purging, which soon terminated her existence. The common modes of using this medicine, are the infusion or tea, and saturated decoction. Of the former Materia Materia, 585 a handful of the bark to a quart of boiling M'ater, is j^i ven in doses of a small tea-cupful morning and night. The decoction is made by boiling a large handful ot the fresh bark of the root in three pints of water to a quart, which IS given to children in doses from a half to a whole wine-glassful. Dr. Koilock, of Savannah, observes, when exhibited in the latter form, every three hours, until it operates, he has found it beneficial as a febrifuge in those affections usudlly denominated worm fevers, but where no worms are voided. The pulp w hich in- vests the stone of the fruit, pounded with tallow, has been successfully employed in cases of scald head. Would not an ointment prepared by slowly simmering the root in hog's lard, be found also an excellent appli- cation to that loathsome disease, also to tetter worms and ulcere? PUCCOON. See Blood Root. QUEEN OF THE MEADOWS, Grows in hedges, and on the sides of meadows, about four feet high; the stalk reddish, leaves long, spear- shaped, and opposite each other; flowers purple. A large handful of the roots boiled in three pints of water to a quart, and given in doses of a tea-cupful every two hours, is said to be an excellent remedy in suppression of urine, and carrying of the water in drop- sy. QUINCE TREE. Pyrus Cydonia, The liquor expressed from the ripe quince, also the syrup, has frequently been given with great success in nausea, vomiting, and fluxes. The juice of the quince with sugar, a gallon of one to two pounds of the other, is said to make a most de- lightful wine. The ripe fruit sliced and steeped in 4E 586 Materia Medica. French brandy or spirits, with a little supjar, or equal parts of the juice and spirits sweetened, forms an ad- mirable cordial and stomachic. The quince makes also a nice preserve, and the seeds a fine mucilage, which with sugar and nutmeg, is an excellent drink in dysen- tery. RADISH. ;1 Raphanm'^ ■ Is esteemed as an antiscorbutic, particularly if eaten with the skin. When old, or after having been kept some time, they oui^ht to be avoided, especially by per- soiis of weak stomachs, as apt to create indigestion and colic, and to render the breath disagreeable. RASBERRY. Idaus^ Like the rest of the rich subacid fruit, when ripe, are wholesome and nourishing. Rasberries, as well as straw- berries, held in the mouth, will dissolve tartarous con- cretions formed on the teeth. RATTLE, OR SENEKA SNAKE ROOT. Polygala Senega^ Grows nearly a foot high, the leaves pointed, and somewhat oval; the stalks upright, and branched, the flowers white, the root variously bent and joined, whence it is supposed to resenible the tail of the animal whose name it bears. In violent colds, croup, pleurisy, acute rheumatism, and all inflammatory oompkiints, 1 can recommend it as an admirable mtdiciue to promote perspiration. The Materia Medica, 587 best form of using it is in decoction, a handful to a quart of boiling water, a wine-glassful to adiilts, ever\ tu o or ! three hours, increasing or lessening the quantity to avoid vomiting and purging. My sagacious friend, professor Chapman, recom- mends it very highly in obstructions of the menses, four ounces of the decoction to be taken in the course of the day, im reabing the quantity when the menstrual effort is expired, as far as the stomach will allow. If this excite nausea, aromatics are to be added, as cin- namon, calamus and angelica. Dr. Archer, of Hartford county, Maryland, was among the first who noticed the efficacy of this medicine in cases of croup, or hives. He directs a tea-spoonful of the strong decoction to be given to a child every half hour, or hour, as the u. gency of the s\ mptoms may demand, and during the intervals a few drops occasionally, until it acts as an emetic or cathartic; then repeated in small quantities, to keep up a constant stmiulus in the mouth and throat. Patients who use this medicine, should not be permit- ted to drink any thing whatever for some time after each dose. He has also employed it in the form of pow- der in doses of four to five grains, mixed with a little water. Professor Barton, with his usual candour and libe- rality, observes, " I am persuaded that the Seneka is a very important medicine in the treatment of this com- mon, and too frequently unmanageable disease; and praise, is in my opinion, due to Dr. Archer for his im- portant discovery, for such I cannot but deem it. That the Seneka is a specific or certain remedy for the cure of croup, 1 do not believe; but from my own experi- ence, I am led to repose more confidence in the use of this medicine than in any other. I have made use of a very strong decoction of the root. I have always given it in large quantities. It appears to be chiefly beneficial when it occasions an expectoration of mucus, and when it proves emetic. It is also very useful by virtue of its purgative quality. But I have known it 588 Materia Medica, occasion very plentiful stools, without benefiting the patient. Indeed, in the exhibition of Seneka, I would;] rather wibh to guard against large purgings. I have 11 sometimes treated my patients almost entirely vvithT| Seneka. Even in such cases I have perceived mostl unequivocal good efftcts from it. But I have more generally given along with the Stneka, calomel, and sometimes calomel combined with ipecacuanha. 1 have not omitted the employment of the lancei, though thisa in man) cases of croup is noi absolutely necessary, and! the use of blisters or sinapisms applied near the seat ofl the disease. I am happy to close this short notice by« observing, that several respectable physicians in Phila-! dtlphia, inform me that they have used the Seneka wiih* much advantage in the disease in question." Along with its emetic, cathartic, expectorant and diaphoretic qtialities, the Seneka possesses a diuretic power, and hence has been found useful in cases of. dropsies. It likewise acts upon the salivary glands. In the prevailing epidemic I have found a decoction of this velvet able, taken freely at the commencement of the dis- ease, a medicine of great utility. RATTLE SNAKE VIOLET. See Violet. RHUBARB, WILD. See Potatoe, mid. ROSE. Rosa. The hundred-leaved, or damask rose, is justly term- ed the queen of flowers. Ottar, or essence of roses, is obtained from these by distillation, and is doubtless the most elegant perfume in vegetable nature. Independent of their use in this manner, a decoction of its leaves will be found a mild laxative, and, when formed into a syrup, may be given with advantage to children. The conserve of roses is also prepared from them for medi* cal purposes. Materia Medica. 589 ROSE WILLOW. Salix^ Grows near brooks, alonp; the banks of rivers, and on the borders of meadows. It is about the size of an ap|/le tree, and covered with a grayish-coloured bark, and very red within, with a bunch in the top resenibling a bunch of roses. Four ounces, or a large handful of the bark, boiled in three pints of water to a quart, and taken in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a day, is said to be an excellent remedy in cases of gleet, the whites, im- moderate tlowing oithe menses, and m cutaneous erup- tions. RUE. Ruta, Has an ungrateful smell, and a pungent, bitter taste. The leaves are acrid, and when applied to the skin are apt to produce blisters. Employed in the form of tea, the\ are reputed to be of great service to persons of cold phlegmatic habits. According to Boerhaave, an infusion of the leaves powerfully promotes perspiration, quickens the circulation, removes obstructions, and is particularly adapted to weak and hysterical constitutions, suffering from retarded, or obstructed secretions. SAGE. Salvia. An infusion of the leaves, or tea, is considered ser- viceable to persons of cold phlegmatic habits, labourmg under nervous debility. Sweetened, with the addition 590 Materia Medica. of a little lemon juice, it forms an exceedingly gratefu and useful drink, in febrile disorders. Sage was supposed by the ancients to possess virtue of prolonging human life; hence the follo.vin verse: Cur moriatur homo, cui salvia crescit in hoito? How can a man die, in whose gardtn there grows sage in allusion to its many virtues. Wiiat a shameful abu of this pretended property was made by the late sir Joh Hill, in his patent tincture of sa^^e, for the prolongin of human life, and warding olF old age, is known every one. This conduct could not fail to draw uj)o himself the pen of the wits of the age; and Garrick, with Thomson, conjointly, published the following epigram: Thou essence of dock, valerian and sage, At once the disgrace and f>est of the age. The worst that we wish thee for all thy bad crimes. Is to take diy own physic, and read ihy own rhymes. Dr. Hill made the following reply: Ye desperate junto, ye great, or ye small, Who combat dukes, docti^r^ the deuce, and them all, Whether gentleman, scribbleP^or poets in jail, Your impertnient curses shall n«ver prevail; rU cake neither sage, dock, nor hjalsam of honey; Do you take the physic, and Pif take the money. Such shameless imposition on common sense, de- serves something worse than ridicule; for deceiving the sick and helpless, they merit the execrations ol every man who has one spark of humanity, SAMSON SNAKE ROOT, Grows from six to twelve inches on dry land, and bears on the top two or three pale blue flowers; leaves Materia Medico, 591 opposite, sword-shaptd; the root matted, variously bent, .and has an ai^recable bnur tjste. Upon the respectable authority of the honourable I Wm. Mayrant, of ^outh Carolina, the root of this plant r posses»ses in a very great degree tonic powers. He stated I to me, that being himself reduced to a mere skeleton ; by dyspepsia, or uidigestion, and having tried the usual remedies employed in such cases without receiving any ( benefit, he was at length induced, as his last hope, to I try the virtue of this j)lant, which had been recommend- I ed to him by a negro man. He was directed to steep a i handtul of the root in a b ntle of spirits, of which he ; Avas to take half a wine-glassful diluted with water three times a day; and such wa^ the astonishing effect wrought I b) this medicine, that in a few weeks his health was perfectly reinstated. On his way to congress last fall, he discovered the plant to grow near Fredericksburg, Virginia, and collected some of it to exhibit in Wash- ington. Several persons in delicate health, and troubled with dyspepsia, were readily persuaded, from the re- commendations of colonel Mayrant, to make use of his favourite remedy, and not without receiving conside- rable benefit. Among these were three ladies of the first distinction; I mean the amiable ladies of the ho- nourable P. P. Barbour, Aylett Hawes, and Thomas Gholson. Such testimony cannot fail to excite those who may be afflirted in a similar manner, to make use of a remedy which promises to be a valuable acquisi- tion to our Materia M( dica. It may be taken in the form of powder, tincture, or decoction. SANICLE, AMERICAN. See Jlum Hoot. SARSAPARILLA. Smilax Sarsaparillaj Grows in several parts of the United States. It is a small vine, resembling a bramble. 592 Materia Medica, A decoction of sarsaparilla, prepared by boiling a largt hanehui of the root in a quart of water, till the third part be evaporated, has long been employed as an auxiliary to mercury, in the treatment of venereal compldints. It promotes perspiration, attenuates viscid humours, relieves venereal head-ach, nocturnal pains, and disposes venereal ulcers to heal. In rheuniatic af- fections, cutaneous disorders, and scrofula, it is a vtry useful medicine. It may also be exhibited in the form of powder in doses of two drachms, or e xtract in doses of one drachm, three or four times a-day. SASSAFRAS. Laurus Sassafras* An infusion, or tea of the flowers, or bark of the root, has oficn been successfully given as a sweetener or pu- rifier of the blood, in scorbutic, venereal, and cutane- ous disorders, or where an acrimony of the fluids pre- vails. Conjoi'ied with the bark of dog-wood, cherry- tree, or oak, it is very useful in obstinate intermittents. The oil, externally applied, in the chronic rheumatism, and also in wens, has oftentimes proved salutary. The pith of the small twigs, in water, iorms a mucilage of excellent use for sore eyes, and as an injection in the incipient stage of gonorrhoea. It also affords, when sweetened, vi^ith the addition of nutmeg, a palatable jelly, useful in dysentery and febrile diseases. SCULL CAP, BLUE. See Hoo'ded Widow Herb. SCURVY GRASS. Cochleara Officinalis^ Is a pungent stimulating plant, and in the simple state of a salad, or in the Ibrm of expressed juice, a Materia Medica, 593 wine-^lassful three times a day, has lon^ been esteemed one of the best of all the antiscorbutic plants. SENNA, AMERICAN. Cassia Marilandica^ Is easily cultivated from the seeds, and ought to be more generally introduced into our gardens. It has long been employed as a purgative. To increase its effects on the bowels, manna, salts, or tamarinds are generally added. To correct its ill flavour, and prevent griping, it should be joined with some aromatics, as co- riander or fennel seed, ginger, &c. In the form of decoc- tion, a handful to a pint of boiling water, ihe dose is a tea-cupful every hour or two, until it operates. It may also be exhibited in the form of tincture, to relieve flatu- lent colics, four ounces of senna to a quart of spirits, with an ounce of coriander seed, or ginger, and a wine- glassful the dose. SKOKE. See Thorn Apple. SKUNK CABBAGE. Draconitum Fwtidum^ Abounds in swamps and meadows, and emits a dis- agreeable smell, nearly resembling that of a skunk or pole-cat, and from this, and its leaves resembling those of a cabbage, it has acquired its name. The roots dried and powdered, have proved of ex- cellent use in asthmatic cases, and often afforded relief in this distressing disease, when other means were in- effectual. It should be exhibited during the paroxysm, and repeated as circumstances may require, in doses of thirty or forty grains. It will be proper to persevere 4 F 594 Materia Medica, in the use of it for some time after the paroxysm has gone off, until the patient has perfectly recovered. Dr. Cutler has celebrated its efficacy in his own case of asthma, after other medicines had failed. In one of the most violent asthmatic cases, two tea-spoonfuls of the powdered root in spirits, procured immediate relief, and on repeating the trials with the same patient, it af- forded more lasting benefit than any other medicine. In childbed it produces the desired effect, in doses of a tea- spoonful repeated occasionally. In numerous other in- stances of spasm, and also in chronic and acute rheu- matism, and dropsy, in powder or decoction, it has per- formed important cures. The seeds possess the same virtues with the root. Dr. Cutler vehemently cautions, that, in collecting the roots, the white hellebore, or poke root, which some people call skunk weed, be not mistaken for this plant, as the consequence might be fatal. There is an obvious difference: the hellebore has a stalk, but the skunk cab- bage has none, and the roots of the latter are much lar- ger than those of the former. SOAPWORT. Saponaria Officinalis^ Grows in moist swamps and meadows, particularly on the Ohio river, where it is used as a substitute for soap. It rises about a foot high, the leaves are pointed, and furnished with three ribs, the flowers numerous, large, and of a pale pink colour. A handful of this plant boiled in three pints of water to a quart, in doses of half a pint, three or four times a day, has been found useful in the jaundice, obstructions of the liver, and the venereal disease. Materia Medica. 595 SORREL. Oxalis Acetosella^ Called also sour trefoil, or cuckow bread. Yields, on expression, a grateful acid juice, which has been beneficially used in the scurvy, and scorljutic eruptions. An infusion of the leaves makes a palatable diet drink in fevers, and on being boiled in milk, forms an agree- able whey. A conserve made of the leaves, with double their weight of loaf sugar, forms an excellent substitute for lemons, and may be given with advantage, in all putrid and other fevers, where antiseptics are indica- ted. The leaves bruised, and externally aj)plied to scrofulous ulcers, have produced excellent effects, by promoting suppuration and granulation. SOUTHERN WOOD. Sec Mugwort. SOUTH SEA TEA, OR YAUPON. Alex Vo7nitona^ Grows abundantly in the southern states. It rises about twelve feet high, shooting into many upright slen- der stiff branches, covered with whitish smooth bark; the leaves small, ever-green, and saw-edged; the flow- ers small and white, and grow promiscuously among the leaves, succeeded by small berries, which become red in October, and remain so all the winter. It is held in great esteem among the southern Indians. They toast the leaves, and make a decoction of them, which is called black drink. An infusion, or tea of the leaves, is considered as pala- table as bohea tea, and when used freely, is a powerful diuretic, and hence of service in the cure of dropsy and suppression of urine. 596 Materia Medica, SPIKENARD. Aralia Racemosa^ Grows in low rich grounds and among rocks, to the height of three or four feet; the leaves are many, on long branches, from a thick purplish stalk, flowers very small, of a bluish colour, producing berries much resembling those of the ejder, of a sweetish pleasant aromatic taste. The roots are very long, about the thickness of a fin- A pint of the berries steeped in a quart of spirits, in dose of a wine-glassful, is said to be a speedy cure for the gout in the stomach. The roots in the form of in- fusion, a handful to a quart of water, and given in doses of a tea cupful three or four times a day, have been found efficacious in gouty complaints. The fresh root applied in the form of poultice, is said to be excellent for wounds or ulcers. SPLEENVVORT. See Maiden Hair. SPRUCE LAUREL. See Mezereon. SQUIRREL EAR, OR EDGE LEAF. I am indebted* to my much-esteemed friend, the ho- nourable Paul Hamilton, for the description and virtues of this plant. Produced on barren pine land, in Carolina and Geor- gia, is a species of sage, and very efficacious as an an- tidote to the poison of the snake bite. It is known by the remarkable characteristic which forms its name. The leaf, instead of presenting its surface to the sun, pre- sents its edge, and is in colour and shape, very much like the ear of a squirrel, although larger; the \ Materia Medica. 597 stalk never rises beyond three feet, and its leaves are alternate and transverse. A wine-glasslul of the juice of this plant has been known to rescue from death persons bitten by the rattle snake, who were so far gone, as to be incapable of speaking. The flower of this plant is white and fuzzy, and appears in every warm month in the year; the smt- II that of mellilot, with a slight tincture of the aro- matic. STINK WEED. See Thorn Apple. STRAWBERRY. Fragaria, The fruit of this plant is delicious, and being of a cooling and laxative nature, may be considered as me- dicinal. If freely eaten they impart their peculiar fra- grance to the urine, and when retained in the mouth for some time, dissolve tartareous concretions on the teeth. They are of great service in cases of scurvy, and, according to Linnaeus, a copious use of them has proved a certain preventive of the stone in the kidnies. An infusion of strawberry leaves, while young and tender, makes excellent tea; but for such purpose they ought to be dried in the shade, being slightly bitterish and styptic. They have been used with advantage in laxity and debility of the intestines,* as likewise in he- morrhages and other fluxes. Lastly, they are of con- siderable service as aperients, in suppressions of urine, visceral obstructions, and jaundice. SUMACH, COMMON. Rhus Copallinum, , The berries or seeds, when ripe, are red and very acid. An infusion of them, sweetened with honey, is a good gargle for the sore throat, and for cleansing the mouth in putrid fevers. 598 Materia Medica. Mr. Jesse Torrey, who contemplates establishing a botanic garden in the vicinity of \V ashington city, says, he considers the ba: k of the root of sumach to be one of the best antiseptics produced by vegetation. Corro- ding ulcers, defyini^ every common application, imme- diately began to heal by washing them with a strong decoction, and applying the boikd bark as a poultice. He says it is a very important material in decoctions for hectic and scrofulous diseases. Sumach constitutes one of the ingredients of the following recipe, which was handed to me by a gentleman of the first respecta- bility and veracity, as a remedy for the venereal disease. Of the inner bark of pine and swamp elm, and the bark of the root of sumach, take each one pound, boil them in a gallon of water to three quarts, drink half a pint three times a day; if costiveness be produced, a dose of salts may be used. If there be ulcers, they are to be washed with the decoction made warm. The detergent effects will appear in a very short time. Ab- stinence from too much stimulants will accelerate the cure. This remedy is one of Heaven's best mercies to offending man, and instances can be produced of the effects of it, which would stagger credulity. Mercury, and nitric acid, have failed, but this has never been knovrn to fail when properly applied. It is, moreover, a fine application in dysenteric affections. SUNDEW. . Ros Soils ^ Called also red root, or youthwort. Grows in mossy bogs, flowering in July and August. The whole of this singular plant is acrid, and its juice sufficiently caustic to corrode corns and warts. It is said the juice, properly mixed with milk, and applied to the skin, will remove freckles and sun-burns. Materia Medica. 599 SWALLOW WORT. See Pleurisy Root. \ TANSY. « Tanacetum Vulgare. This plant possesses a warm bitter taste, and may be used as a substitute for hops. An infusion of the leaves is recommended for a weak stomach, hysteric comp- plaints, and obstructed menses. According to Dr. Withering, its seeds are an excel- le,nt vermifuge, in doses from a scruple to a drachm, and that if animal substance be rubbed with the herb, it will be effectually preserved from the attack of the flesh fly. THORN APPLE. Datura Stramonium^ Has a variety of names, as James Town, or jimson weed, French Apple, stink weed, &c. Its common name, James Town weed, is said to have arisen from the circumstance of a number of sailors being violently diseased by ignorantly eating the boiled plant at James Town, in Virginia, at its first settlement. It grows among rubbish, and on dunghills, to the height of two or three feet, flowers in July and August. The corolla is funnel-shaped and plated white with a tinge of pur- ple. The capsule is large, egg-shaped, and covered with thorns, which have four divisions, and contain nu- merous kidney. shaped seeds. The leaves are large, egg- shaped, and deeply indented, of a disagreeable smell, and nauseous taste. Every part of this plant is a strong narcotic poison; nevertheless, when judiciously administered, it is un- questionably one of the moet valuable medicines in our 600 Materia Medica, possession. Professor Barton considers it a medicine of great and invaluable powers, especially in cases of mania, attended with little or no fever, or with a rold skin and languid circulation. The form in which he exhibited it, was that of an extract prepared from the first leaves, beginning with a few grains, and gradu- ally increasing the dose to fifteen or twenty grains. In one case of mania, in a woman, he. increased it to sixty grains. In a few weeks it brought on an eruption in various parts of the body, " and she was dismissed," he observes, ** from the hospital, perfectly cured." Dr. Fisher recommends it highly in those cases of mania in young persons, where the fits occur daily, or monthly, at regular periods, especially if assisted by chalybtrates, or such other medicines as particular symptoms require, but advises the free and regular use of it, one or two doses every day. The most convenient form, especial- ly for children, he thinks, is the saturated tincture; the requisite dose may be known by the dilatation of the pupils. Dr. Alexander King, of Connecticut, has employed this medicine, in the form of decoction, one drachm of the seeds bruised, boiled in half a pint of water to a gill, in several cases of inflammation of the brain, atten- ded with delirium. The following is one of the cases recited by the doctor. A man of robust constitution, and sanguine habit, about 26 years of age, after drinking pretty freely, was seized with a slight paroxysm of the apoplexy, which was followed with a cold fit of fever, attended with a violent pain of the head, and delirium. On the second day I found him delirious, with an inflammation of the brain, or rather the meninges. I bled him largely, so that he even fainted in a recumbent posture, which was succeeded by another partial paroxysm similar to the first. I put him on a course of medicine, nearly the same as prescribed in a former case. The next day I found no abatement of the symptoms; he had slept none for two nights past, and was quite outrageous. I then prescribed for him a decoction of the seeds of the datu- ra stramonium, and directed the nurse to give him a Materia Medica. 601 ^ tea-spoonfiil every quarter of an hour. I found, on !; visiting him the next morning, that soon after taking i, the decoction, he became calm and composed, and went i^lo sleep. I continued the sauiC medicine through the ji course of the fever, v\hi< h lasttd about seven days, ; except one day in which I purposely omitted the use ' of it, in order fully to satisfy myself as to the operation of the nudicine. On that day the delirium returned, \ and he slt^pt none the night following. 'I'he i^ext morn- i ing i iuid recourse to ihe decoction as usual, and it produced the same salutary effects as before. In this case, I had a fair opportunity to observe the I acti(^n of the medicine, in an early stage of the disease, ! which was coolmg, anodyne, and sedative. As a remedy in epilepsy, professor Barton thinks it may be relied on, even in the most deplorable cases. A lady, aged fifty-five, having for some months been afflicted with alarming attacks oKepilepsy, by which her powers of intellect and of articulation were impair- ed, happily experienced a restoration, by taking one grain of the extract once in twenty -four hours. Al- though she did not suffer another attack, after com- mencing the course, she found it necessary to continue it for several months, to remove all apprehensions of a recurrence. A single grain seldom failed to excite unpleasant vertiginous sensations, accompanied with efflorescence of her face, and some degree of sleepiness. In asthma and spasmodic cough, stramonium is said to have proved essentially beneficial. It is also said to have produced salutary effects in cases of chronic rheu- matism, and difficult menstruation. As this medicine is endued with most active powers, it ought to be administered in very small doses at first, and the quantity gradually increased daily, until it pro* duce, in a slight degree, vertigo, or dilatation of the pupil. In the course of my practice, I witnessed the delete- rious effects of this plant in a child, who was attacked with convulsions similar to those which attend persons afflicted with the disease termed St. Vitus's dance, ac- 4G 602 Materia Medica. '™ companied with delirum, tremor, thirst, glaring eyes, dilated pupil, and considerable efflorescence of the skin. The parents were perfectly ignorant of the cause of the child's sudden indisposition; but, from the symptoms, I was convinced it had taken some of the stramonium, and on making the necessary inquiries, learned it had been playing with some of the seeds a few hours be- fore. Immediately on visiting the child, I directed the warm bath, and gave it six or eight grains of blue vitriol, which was repeated at the interval of fifteen minutes, before it excited vomiting, when some of the seed were throw^n up. After the operation of the emetic, I administered a large dose of castor oil, which, assisted by stimulating injections, produced in a few hours some evacuations, and the child was entirely relieved from all those distressing symptoms. Domestic practitioners will recollect, that two or three grains of blue vitriol is a full dose for adults; and the large dose given in this case was from persuasion that the child's stomach had been deprived of its sensibility, through the narcotic effects of the poisonous seeds. The extract may be made by exposing the juice of the plant to the heat of the sun, or by boiling the bruis- ed seed or leaves in water for the space of four hours; then strain off the liquor, evaporate over a gentle fire, without taking olF the scum, until it has acquired the thickness of syrup; then place it in a warm oven, in an earthen vessel, until it becomes of a proper consistence for use. The dose is from one to two grains, or more, for an adult. The saturated tincture is prepared by steeping one or two handfuls of the leaves in a half pint of spirits for a few days. The stramonium has also been employed externally with the most happy effects. In recent wounds, inflam- mations, or bruises, the leaves, either alone, or united with bread and milk poultice, have been applied to the part with manifest advantage. In the form of ointment, which is prepared by simmering slowly the fresh leaves bru'ised in hog's lard, with about one eighth part of bees- wax, for an hour, and then strained through a coarse Materia Medic a. 603 cloth, it will be found excellent for the piles, scalds, and burns. From my own observation, it far excels all other applications I have made, to obstinate cutaneous sores, ill-conditioned ulcers, and painful cancerous af- fections, THOROUGHWORT. Eiipatorium Perfoliatum^ Is known also by the following names, thorough- stem, crosswort, boncset, and Indian sage. The first of these names, thoroughstem, has been imposed upon it from the peculiar structure of the leaves, which are opposite, and appear as though the stem was thrust through them. It has received the second name of cross- wort, by w^hich it is known in many parts of Virginia, from the position of the leaves, each pair of which take their origin from opposite sides of the stem, so that they cross each other nearly at right angles. I am at a loss, says professor Barton, to refer the word boneset to its real origin; but I presume the plant received this name from the great relief which, on many occasions, it has been found to afford to persons labouring under violent remitting and other fevers, in w^hich the bones are greatly pained. The resemblance of the leaves of this plant to those of the .common sage, was long ago remarked by the botanists. Hence the name Indian sage, by which the eupatorium is known in some parts of Pennsylvania. This plant flourishes in wet meadows, and other moist places. The stalk is hairy, and rises from tw^o to four feet. The flowers are white, and appear in July and August. The leaves at each joint are horizontal, saw- edged, and rough, from three to four inches long, and about one inch broad at the base, gradually lessening to a very acute point, of a dark green, and covered with short hairs. This plant posseses very active powers, and has been exhibited with uncommon advantage in intermittents, remittents, and other diseases of debility. When exhi- 604 Materia Medica. bitfd in the form of a warm decociion, a handful of the herb boiled in a quart of water, a wine- e^lassful every two hours, has proved peculiarly beneficial^ says pro- fessor Barton, in fevers, bv exciiing a copious perspira- tion. In larger doses, it proves emetic, with which view it is used in some parts oi the Uniu d States, as an ex- cellent remedy in intermittents. The dried leaves in powder, in doses of twelve or fifteen grains, are said to operate gendy on the bowels. Every part of this plant may be advantageously employed in practice. Fhe flowers, as a tonic bitter, are deemed equal to the flowers of camomile, for which they might be substituted on many occasions. This medicine has also been found very efiicacious in cutaneous diseases. In a peculiar and distressing af- fection of the herpetic kind, which was formerly very common in Virginia, and there known by the name of James River ring worm*, professor Barton states, from the respectable authority of Dr. Thomas Knox, of Cul- pepper county, Va. that a decoction of this plant drank daily, for a considerable time, made a perfect cure. A wine glassful of the expressed juice of the green herb drank every hour, is celebrated as a certain cure for the bite of a rattle snake. The bruised leaves should be ap- plied to the part. THROAT-ROOT. See Avens. THYME, GARDEN. Thymus Vulgaris^ Is one of the most powerful aromatic plants, and as such, is frequently employed in the form of tea, in those complaints where medicines of this class are indicated. • This dis.Gfusting disease prevailed mostly amon.^the inhabitants on James River. It attacked the thig-hs, the scrotum, and especially tlie parts imme- diately adjacent to the anus. It extended its ravages into the rectum, and perhaps much further. Materia Medica. 605 TOBACCO. Nicotiana Tabacum. This " obnoxious luxury," to use the language of the eloquent and patriotic John Randolph, Esq. is a medi- cine of the most uncommon powers; being emetic, ca- thartic, sudorific, diuretic, expectorant, narcotic, and antipasmodic; hence its utility in a variety of diseases. A table- spoonful of an infusion, one ounce in a pint of boiling water, will excite vomiting; however, as it has no peculiar property as an emetic, and its operation is attended with severe sickness, it is not often employed with this view. As a purgative, it is employed in the form of clysters, in all cases of obstinate costiveness. Exhibited in this form, in the quantity of two or three table-spoonfuls of the infusion, mixed in half a pint of milk or thin gruel, it has frequently afforded almost in- stantaneous relief in violent colics, after other medicines had proved ineffectual. If this quantity procure no re- lief, nor excite giddiness, nor nausea, the injection may be repeated every half hour, with the gradual increase of the infusion, till one or other of these effects takes place. By this mode of proceeding, the violent effects of tobacco may always be avoided. As a diuretic, it has on many occasions proved an invaluable remedy, as in ascites and other dropsical affections, also in gra- vel, or difficulty of making water. In those cases, ac- cording to Dr. Fowler, the dose for adults should be from sixty to one hundred drops of the infusion in a tea- cup of water, twice a day, about two hours before din- ner, and at bed-time; it being observed to disagree the most with the stomach in a morning fasting. And such is the difference between the morning and night, that almost every patient will require to take one fourth, and some one third more in the forenoon than in the even- ing, in order to enable ihem to bear the dose with equal convenience. The connuon dose just mentioned, relates only to adults of an ordinary constitution; for it de- 606 Mata'ia Medica, serves particular notice, that between constitutions which are very nervous and irritable, and those which are very robust or torpid, or long accustomed to the use of tobacco, the dose will admit of very great and sur- prising alterations. As an expectorant, in asthmatic cases, unattended with inflammatory symptoms, this medicine has fre- quently afforded relief. In cases of tetanus, or lock-jaw, injections of tobacco infusion, says, Dr. Mease, have been used with success. They not only produce eva- cuations from the bowels, which are generally obsti- nately constipated, but tend to a relaxation of the vio- lent spasms so peculiar to this disease. On this account, he suggests the propriety of giving it in the dreadful disease produced by the bite of a mad dog. Besides the internal use of tobacco in the above dis- eases, it is likewise commended for its virtues exter- nally employed. In the tooth-ach, a piece of lint moist- ened with the expressed juice of tobacco, has often acted as a charm in mitigating the pain. In obstinate ulcers, an ointment, or the dried leaves of tobacco, steeped in water, and applied to the part affected, have been attended with beneficial eftects, after the usual re- medies had failed. In the itch, and obstinate cases of cutaneous eruptions, the tobacco infusion, as a wash ap- plied two or three times a day, seldom fails of effecting a radical cure. In that detestable distemper, called lousy evil, to which many children are subject, though from neglect of cleanliness, adults are sometimes afflicted with it, the infusion has effected a radical cure, in seve- ral instances, after preparations of mercury, and other applications, had failed. It will be found equally destruc- tive to crab-Hce, if applied two or three times a day, to the parts which they infest. In cases of worms, tobacco externally applied, is deserving the highest estimation. Professor Barton states, that the leaves pounded with vinegar, and applied in the shape of poultice to the region of the stomach and abdomen, have often discharged worms, after pow- erful anthelmintics had been exhibited internally in Materia Medica, 6f)7 vain. We ought not to be surprised, says he, at this effect of the tobacco, since we know that the same ve- getable, appHed externally, is often efficacious in in- ducing vomiting. Accordingly, says he, I have for some years been in the habit of applying tobacco leaves to the region of the stomach of persons who have swal- lowed large quantities of opium, and other similar arti- cles, with a view of destroying themselves. It is well known, diat in these cases, the stomach is often ex- tremely inirritable, insomuch, that the most powerful emetics have little t fleet in rousing that organ into ac- tion. Here, as an auxiliary at least, the tobacco, in the manner I have mentioned, is certainly very useful, and in many instances ought not to be neglected. In further testimony of the efficacy of tobacco ex- ternally applied, in the most formidable diseases, we cannot forbear inserting at length, a letter addressed to the Editors of the Medical Museum, by Dr. Edward Cutbush, now of this city, a gentleman no less distin- guished for his medical attainments, than for his surgi- cal knowledge. Preceding this letter, is a minute detail of the case, related by an Italian physician, of a young woman, long afflicted with an abdominal swelling, pro- ducing violent convulsions, which, after having baffled the most efficacious means, was radically cured by Dr. Edward Cutbush, M. D. senior physician of the Ame- rican marine hospital at Syracuse, in the year 1805. " Sir, " In consequence of the earnest solicitations of tfte parents of the young woman, whose case is above stated by one of her physicians, she was brought to my house in Syracuse to be examined. I received from herself and parents a history of her case, which corresponded very nearly with the above statement. Her parents informed me they had consulted 33 physicians and sur- geons of Naples, and different parts of Sicily, without receiving any advantage. Some were of opinion that the swelling was owing to a collection of water in the uterus; others in the ovaria; others, that it was an en- 608 Materia Medica, larged liver; finally, two or three were strongly im- pressed with the idea, that it was an extra-uttnne foe^ tus, which produced all the distressing symptoms above stated. On examination, 1 found a very large swelling, extending from the epigastrium in a diagonal direction to the anterior spinous process of the right ilium. The tumour had a number of inequalities on its surface; no fluctuations could be felt; she could not bear it pressed i| without suffering great pain. I must confess I did not II give any decisive opinion in the case, it being perfectly 1 new to me, and especially after the numerous contradic- j tory opinions and practice of the first physicians of Na- I pies and Sicily had failed in giving relief. She had f been twice under the liberal use of mercury in Naples and Syracuse; in the latter place, by the direction of a surgeon belonging to Lord Nelson's squadron, when his lordship was there in 1798, without beneficial effect. From this history and examination, I entertained no hope of relieving her; but the solemn entreaties of her parents determined me to make trial of a remedy, which I had found useful in discussing obstinate tumours, and which finally terminated a disease that had been the source of great distress to the unfortunate female, and which, doubtless, proved the disease to have been an hydropic affection of the uterus, or right fallopian tube, thouQ:h no undulation could be discovered. I directed the leaves of the nicotiana, recently collected, to be stewed in vinegar, and applied to the abdominal swell- ing. The first appUcation produced nausea, vomiting, . vertigo, great depression of muscular strength, copious perspiration, and a loose state of the bowels. Her pulse became very slow. In consequence of the violence of the above symptoms, it was not long continued; but on the succeeding day, it was repeated morning and even- ing, and produced all the above symptoms, but in a less degree, attended with an immoderate flow of water from the vagina. The application was continued twice a-day for one week, when its effects on the system were less powerful; but I was informed, with the most rapturous expressions, that the tumour had diminised very much. Materia Medica, 6Q9 The clay following, a priest was despatched to inform me, that the water was continually running from her as she walked her room. The remedy was continued about twenty days, but the swelling disappeared entire- I ly before the fourteenth. No medicine was given, ex- I ceptinga small quantity of opium or wine during the day. When the application of the tobacco was omitted, her abdomen was perfectly soft and she could bear it j pressed wiihout pain. She was occasionally attacked with syncope, and complained of a want of appetite; I advised a bandage to i)c applied around her body, a course of tonic medicines, a generous diet to be gradu- ally increased, equitation, (riding) and cheerful company. I saw her in. October, 1805; she informed me that all I the functions of her body where natural; her countenance was florid and cheerful. April 1, 1806, I was informed she remained in good health. It is difiicult to account for the modus operandi of tobacco in this case, unless the violent commotion, which it cxcitod in the system, ruptured the cyst which probably contained the water. I conceive the external . application of tobacco, as a remedy in many diseases, de- mands more attention from physicians than it has gene- rally received. In obstinate constipation of the bowels, I have applied tobacco stewed in vinegar or water, with the greatest success; even after powerful cathartics, enemata of different kinds, injections of tobacco smoke or the infusion of the plant, have failed; and conceive it preferable in many cases of ascites, to the common mode of administering it internally in the form of tinc- ture or infusion. I am, sir, with esteem, yours, EDWARD CUTBUSH.*' Happy if this plant " of many virtues'* could always be exerted to such beneficient purposes as those above, and for which, no doubt, it was intended by the all wise . and benevolent Creator. But, alas! we are constraini^d to deplore, not only the idle and expensive,, but too pft^n fatal abuse of it, by snuffing, chewing, and smoking, 4 H 610 Materia Medica. practices which cannot be too severely censured, espe- cially in young persons, and those of weak digestion, consumptive, or delicate habits. When used in either of those forms, by persons unaccustomed to its use, it will, in small quantities, produce stupor, giddiness, and vomiting. But, like spirits, opium, and other narcotics, the use of it may be introduced by degrees, so that its peculiar effects, even from large quantities employed, seldom appear. TOE- ITCH. See Moorwort, Broad- leaved. TOOTHACH-TREE. See PnV% Jsh, TOUCHWOOD. Boletus Igniarius^ Called also punk. It is a spongy substance, growing on the white oak, pine, and hickory trees, generally used for catching fire with flint and steel. The heart of that which grows on the oak, reduced to a powder, and applied to violent hemorrhages from wounds, is said to be an excellent application to stop the bleeding. TREFOIL, WATER. Menianthes, Grows about twelve inches high, in marshes, swamps, and wet meadows. It bears many elegant flowers, in a spike, which are sometimes white, but commonly rose- coloured on the outside, and in the inside finely fringed; the leaves are three together, resembling our garden beans. A drachm of the powdered leaves is said to operate up and down. An infusion of the leaves, two handfuls to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea-cupful two or three times a day, is esteemed a useful medicine in chronic rheumatism, in scorbutic complaints, and in all impurities of the blood. Materia Medico. 611 TULIP-BEARING POPLAR. See Poplar, mite. TURMERIC. See Bloodroot. UNICORN ROOT. Aletris Farinasa, Grows in meadows, and on the sides of mountains, about siK or seven inches high; leaves spear-shaped, lying on the ground, and are green all the winter. The flowers grovv on the stalk from the ground, w^hich hang down at the top when fully blown; the root is whitish, full of small fibres, about the thickness of the end oif the little finger, and crooked at the end. The powdered root, in doses from a half to a tea- spoonful, is said to afford relief in hysteric, and flatu- lent or wind colic. A large handful of the root steeped in a quart of spirits, in doses of a wine-glassful three times a-day, is highly esteemed by some as a valuable remedy in chronic rheumatism. VALERIAN, WILD. Valeriana Officinalis, Grows abundantly in the vicinity of the Ohio river. It rfses two or three feet high — the leaves in pairs, large, hairy, and of a dusky-green colour — flowers stand in large tufts on the tops of the branches, of a pale whitish- red colour. The root, which is the part used in medicine, consists of a number of slender fibres, matted together, and at- tached to one head; of a brown colour, having a strong and unpleasant smell. Valerian has long been recom- mended by the most learned physicians as a medicine of great use in nervous disorders; and is particularly serviceable in hysteric cases, as well as in epilepsy, pro- 6i2 Materia Medica. ceeding from a debility of the nervous system. Accord- ing to Dr. Withering, it is an excellent medicine in cases of habitual costiveness. It should be given in doses from one to two tea cupfuls or more, in powder, three times a-day. It seems most useful when given in sub- stance, and in large doses. VINE, GRAPE. Vitis Vinifera, Several species of this valuable shrub grow in the United States. The success which has attended the at- tempts to cultivate foreign and native grapes, sufficiently prove that our climate is perfectly congenial to the cul- tivation of the vine, and, that with very little attention, we might supply ourselves abundantly with cheap and wholesome wines. Wine certainly is most excellent to prevent, as well as to cure diseases. A prudent use of it, when genuine, I can say, from my own experience and observation, admirably conduces to health. It will be found particu- larly beneficial to the weak and aged, and to those who are exposed to a warm and nioist air, or to a corrupted one. It exhilarates the spirits, quickens the circulation, promotes digesiion, invigorates both the body and menial faculties, and thereby renders persons less sus- ceptible to disease. As a medicine, wine is a most grateful and valuable cordial in languors and debility, in which it is found to raise the pulse, support the strength, promote perspira- tion, and resist putrefaction. Hence we cannot appre- ciate too highly this reviving liquor, which justly merits the title of *'donum Dei," gift of God. Were we to have less recourse to ardent spirits, and instead of con- tinuing in those abominable practices of drinking before dinner, to take a few glasses of wine after dinner, we should find our account" in it. During my long resi- dence in Savannah, and exposed as I was alternately by my professional pursuits, to the scorching sun and chilling night air, I was never attacked with the pre^ Materia Medica. 613 vailing fever, incident to that climate, which I ascribe almost entirely to the daily use of the purest and best wine. In further corroboration of this fact, I will with candour state, that, when from unforeseen reverses of fortune, I was induced to remove to the more healthy situation, as I thought, of Washington, not a season has elapsed, but some one or other of my family has suffered severely with the bilious or nervous fever, )• which I cannot but ascribe, in a great measure, to our ' not drinking such good wine as we were accustomed ' to at the southward. There are many persons in good circumstances, who I object to the daily use of wine, as being too expensive. I To such I would recommend it as economy. Besides ! the very great satisfaction which would naturally flow from having a healthy family, money is often saved by a prudent use of it. To illustrate this, it is only ne- cessary to state, that several families at the southward, who were in the habit of paying annually large ac- counts for medical attendance, inquired of me how it was, that myself and family enjoyed such perfect health, while they were sickly. I remarked, that it was princip?^lly owing to drinking good wine, and as- sured them, though against my interest, if they would but pursue my plan, they also would enjoy good health. Some of them adopted my plan, which carried convic- tion with it; for on the following year, and afterwards, they enjoyed much better health, were enabled to attend to their business, and found the expense of the wine saved in their physician's bill. Others ag;iin object to the habitual use of wine, as not congenial to their con- stitution, observing that whenever they entertained, or dined with their friends, they were either induced from politeness or persuasion, to drink as the rest of the company,* from which their heads were uniformly af- * The following anecdote will at once show the absurdity of pressing oxir friends to drink more wine than their appetites crave. A foreigner was in- vited to a party, consisting, as he was told, of English philosophers, of whom he conceived a great deal. After a very plenteous dinner, the cloth was cleared, and the bottles were placed on the table. He was pressed ifter five glasses to drink on, but the stranger persisted in assuring the com- 614 Materia Medica* fected, and they always felt disagreeable on the fol- lowing day. This objection is at once refuted, by sim- ply stating, it is my wish to impress on my readers the use, but not the ahuse of wine, which no man more heartily than myself abhors, especially in ^oiing per- sons^ whose readiness to take glass for glass with their elders, is to me one of the most lamentable spectacles in nature. The excessive use of this stimulant, as well as every other, is most certainly injurious to the sys- tem, and ought, therefore, to be carefully guarded against by every rational person. It deserves also to be noticed, that the same quantity of wine which would produce intoxication in one person, would have little or rro effect on another; and there is also a wide dif- ference between taking it on an empty stomach, and on a full one. As it respects myself, it is a positive fact, that one glass taken an hour or two before dinner, will affect my head more than a pint after dinner. In like manner, a half pint of adulterated or impure wine, will produce unpleasant sensations on me, when a pint of genuine Madeira, will have no other than the pleas- ing effect of invigorating the constitution. The appre- hension which some persons entertain, ttftit children, early accustomed to wine, will be apt to become drunk- ards, is without the smallest foundation whatever. On the contrary, it is a lamentable truth, that we daily see persons, who were restrained in the early period of their lives, from drinking wine, toddy, or table drink, in the presence of their parents, become perfect sots after they arrived at the age of manhood. It is one of the greatest commendations of wine, that we never see those who daily indulge the use of it become drunk- ards. This is verified, not only in France, but in ma- ny parts of our Union. In Charleston, Savannah, and Augusta, the inhabitants generally make use of wine; the consequence of which is, they are sober, dis- creet, and, notwithstanding the climate, are healthy. It is a rare thing indeed to see a drunkard of any de- pany, he felt no drought. These philosophers began then to be angry, and the foreigner rang the bell, and insisted on another course, for they ought as much to eat, as he to drink against inclination. Materia Medica. 615 scription in the streets of those cities. Whether it is owing to their drinking less ardent spirits, or a better police than we have, I will not pretend to say, but such is the fact, and would to God I could, with equal propriety, make the same remarks of the metropolis of the United States, where drunkenness among the lower class and negroes, reigns triumphant, throwing open, as it were, the flood-gates of every species of vice. ** Vice is a monster of so frightful mein, As, to be hated, needs but to be seen; Yet seen too oft, familiar with her face, We first endure, then pity, then embrace." PpPE.. It is also worthy of remark, that among the genteel circles in Charleston, Savannah, and Augusta, you will hardly meet with an instance of a gentleman drink- ing any thing before dinner, or pressing his friends to take more wine after dinner than they feel an in- clination for; however, this is nothing more than what might have been expected from those who are not ex- celled by any society on earth, either for polished man- ners, or true hospitality. Experientia docet," expe- rience teaches, is my motto, and as I speak from this alone, I feel conscious of the rectitude of my heart, in earnestly recommending to my fellow-citizens, both old and young, the daily and prudent use of genuine wine, at least during the sickly season, and in unheal- thy situations, mihout any fear whatever of making sots of them. That the tcnderest infant may be benefit- ed by it, I am convinced from my own practical ob- servations; but if higher authority is required, .1 will conclude with the following sentiment of that celebra- ted physician, the late professor Rush. lU is remarkable, says he, that the children of per- sons in easy circumstances, who sip occasionally, with their parents, the remains of a glass of wine after din- ner, are much less subject to disease, than the children of poor people, who are without the bcHcfit of that ar- ticle of diet. 616 Materia Medica, Having said so much in praise of the generous juice of the gra|>e, and considering it as I sincerely do, one of the choicest medicines in the Materia Mcdica, I can- not do otherwise than present my readers wiih the fol- lowing most approved method for makinp^ American wines, taken from the Domestic Encyclopedia^ vol. 5. Grapes must be fully ripe before they arc gathered; gather them in a fair day, when they are perfectly dry; and take away all the rotten and unripe grapes, for they spoil the wine. If your vintage be large, and you ga- ther more grapes than you can mash and press out in one day, let them be gathered without bruising, for bruised grapes soon contract an imsavory taste, and hurt the wine; however, if they are mashed the same day they are gathered, the bruising will do no, hurt. Chaptal advises to cut off the tails of grapes very short with a pair of scissors, and to choose none but sound grapes, and those clusters which are best ex- posed, rejecting those which have been sheltered, and near the ground, and to prefer those which ripen at the bottom of the vines. They are then to be put into smi]!! baskets to prevent the loss of juice, by the superincum- bent weight; and when full they ought to be put in carts, or on the backs of men or horses. I would advise the gathering of them to be direct- ed by some grave discreet person; for as this work is done generally by servants and children, it is made matter of pastime and frolic; and so many grapes are lorn off, and either bruised or scattered on the ground, to the no small damage of the owner, both in the loss of fruit, and in hurting the wine: and these things should be impressed on the minds of the gatherers be- fore they begin, that every thing may be done regularly and in order, by which means more work will be done, and to much better purpose. If white frosts happen before some of your grapes are fully ripe, let them still hang on the vines, and they will grow ripe, rich, and high flavoured; but they must be gathered before the weather be so hard as to freeze Materia Medica, 617 the grapes, for that will spoil them: the light frosts that only kill the leaves do not hurt the fruit, unless it be such as are late ripe; these should be carefully co- vered from all frosts, they should grow against walls or board fences fronting the south or south-east, and at night be covered with mats or frames thatched with straw, which should be so contrived as to be set up to cover the fruit or let down at pleasure. As the wine made from black grapes has a different management from that made of white grapes, I shall begin wi-h the white; these then must be gathered as I mentioned before, in a fair day, when the grapes are perfectly dry; and both the rotten and unripe grapes be carefully plucked off from every bunch, die clus- ters are then thrown into the .mash vat, and cwo or three men, according to the quuntiiy, having washed their feet and legs very clean in bran and water, get into the vat and trample and mash the grapes thoroughly, so that none escape. Chaptal says, as a general rule, that the grapes must be equally pressed, to insure a uniform fermentation: and the vat filled in 24 hours, to avoid the inconvenience and imperfections arising from a successive series of fermentations, and when unexpected rain suspends the collection of the grapes, the juice of those already col- lected and placed in the vat, must ferment separately. The first and second pressing being mixed together, is put into hogsheads, and filled within four inches of the bung, that it may have room to work and ferment, the casks placed in some warm room or dry cellar. Then having a small spile fixed in the middle of the head of the cask, the third or fourth day, draw a little of the wme in a glass, and if it be pretty fine draw it off im- mediately into a clean dry well- scented cask, the larger the better, so you have wine enough to fill it, which you must do within two inches of the bung, and stop it close, leaving only the vent-hole open for a second fer- mentation; after a few days it will work a second time, but not so much as at the first; if your wine be strong and good, which you may know by the age of your 4 1 618 Materia Medica, vineyard, and by the goodness of the seasons, it will be best to leave the bung-hole open for this second working; the wine will be the better: for strong wines require a greater fermentation than weak wines, and the stopping of the bung-hole checks the working, and pre- vents weak wines from spending themselves too much; on the contrary, if strong wines have not a thorough Working, they are apt to grow thick and ropy: by this you may form a proper judgment what degree of fer- mentation is proper for the wine that is under work- ing, and govern yourself accordingly. Three or four day^s after the second fermentation begins, carefully watch your wines every day, again try them in a glass, and .if they be pretty fine, prepare a cask sweet and good, burn a good large b^jmstone match in it, and as soon as the match is burnt out, whilst the cask is full of smoke, draw off the wine into it; now fill up your cask to the brim, and bung it up tight, and stop the vent-hole; the smoke of the brimstone will hinder any further fermentation; and this is called stunning or sul- phuring; then make a mortar of clay and horse-dung mixed up with strong flaxseed jelly, and covering the bung and veipt hole close with it, let it stand till it is fit for use. When you first rack off, if you have any old wine that is rich and good, of the same kind or colour, put four or six gallons of it, and two gallons of good brandy into your cask, this quantity is sufficient for an English hogshead, and then rack off" your wine into it for the first time, this will greatly strengthen and preserve it. When wine is in fermentation, all the gross parts are thrown up to the top of the cask or vessel that it fer- ments in, and there meeting the air, they contract a harshness. If then they are suffered to pass down through the body of the wine, which they certainly will do as soon as the fermentation is over, they will communicate those evil qualities to the wine. For this reason, draw off your wine both times before the fermentation be quite over. These general rules are of great consequence. I now pass on to the making of red wines from the Materia Medica. 619 black grapes. Red wines have a different management from the white; the whole of one or even two days treading or mashing, where the vintage is great, is thrown into a large vat, the must, stalks, skins and all, and stands in some warm dry place or cellar. The vat is covered close with sheets or blankets, or both, and thus it remains, according to custom, from four to seven or even ten days, according to the coldness or heat of the weather. This is done to obtain a strong fermen- tation, in order to give a deeper colour to the wine; and this is the only end proposed by it; the manager of this work, visits the vat twice a day, and in a glass viewa- the colour of the wine and tastes it; if the tincture be not deep enough to his mind, he knows by the taste of the w^ine, whether it will stand a longer fermentation: if it will not, he contents himself with the colour it has, and draws and presses it off, and fills it into casks, leaving about two inches from the bung, for a second fermentation. When the second fermentation is over, which generally happens in four or five days, he then draws it of into clean well scented casks, and adds to it six gallons of good old wine and two gallons of brandy to an English hogshead, which contains from 60 to 63 gallons. Where the same kind of wine is not to be had, he makes use of Port wine. He then fills the cask quite full, and bungs it up tight, leaving only the vent hole open to let out the generated air. Note: when I say, where the same kind of wine is not to be had, he makes use of Portugal wines, this is mentioned for our prac- tice, not that the French make use of such wines, for they always have wines enough of their own of the same kind. Besides the main pulp or core of the grape, which is white in black grapes as M^ell as others, there sticks to the inside of the skin, a considerable body of rich pulp, of a deeper dye in some than in others. This pulp gives the colour to the grape, this same pulp also gives the colour to the wine, for the same grape is capable of viaJdng white wine as well as red wine; if the main core which is first trod out, be only used, the wine will 620 Materia Medica* be white; but if the red pulp be mixed with it, it makes it of a rich purple colour; as this is a clear case, the great point of improvement is, to dissolve or extract this rich |)ulp, without injurini^ the wine. That the present method is the best and most effectual to that pur|)0se, I can by no means think; the violent fermentation through which the wine is made to pass, in order to procure the tincture, must exhaust the spirits in a very great degree, and leave the body in a weak and languid state, and sul'jject it to harshness, to turn eager or vapid in a short time; I think I have reason to conclude, that if the husks or skins, after four days lying in the murk, were taken out, and thrown into the mash vat, and trod over again, and especially if some of the must, or rather wine, be now and then thrown over the husks, in order to wash away the pulp, that a full tincture may be obtained; without torturing the wine, as the present manner is, and without running so great a risk of spoiling it. Another Method^ by Joseph Cooper^ Esq, of Gloucester county. New Jersey. I put a quantity of the comb from which the honey had been drained, into a tub, and added a barrel of cider, immediately from the press; this mixture was well stirred, and left for one night. It was then strain- ed before a fermentation took place; and honey was added until the strength of the liquor was sufficient to bear an egg. It was then put into a barrel; and after the fermentation commenced, the cask was filled every day, for three or four days, that the filth might work out at the bunghole. When the fermentation moderat- ed, I put the l)ung in loosely, lest stopping it tight might cause the cask to burst. At the end of five or six weeks, the liquor was drawn off into a tub; and the whites of eight eggs, well beat up, with a pint of clean sand, were put into it: I then added a gallon of cider spirit; and after mixing the whole well together, I re- turned it into the cask, which was well cleansed, bunged it tight, and placed it in a proper situation for Materia Medica. 621 racking off, when fine. In the month of April follow- ing, I drew it off into kegs, for use; and found it equal, in my opinion, to almost any foreign wine: in the opinion of many judges, it was superior. This success has induced me to repeat the experi- ment for three years; and I am persuaded, that by using clean honey instead of the comb, as above de- scribeo, such an improvement might he made, as would enable the citizens of the United States to supply them- selves with a truly federal and wholesome wine, which would not cost a quarter of a dollar per gallon, were all the ingredients procured at the market price; and would have this peculiar advantage over every other wine, hitherto attempted in this country, that it contains no foreign mixture, but is made from ingredients pro- duced on our own farms. VIOLET, RATTLE SNAKE, Grows about four inches high, on the banks of rivers, and in pine woods; leaves grow in a cluster from a stalk, oval-shaped, fleshy, and full of small veins; flowers of a pale blue colour. An infusion of this plant, a handful to a quart of boil- ing water, taken in doses of a tea- cupful three or four times a-day, and some of the green leaves bruised, and applied twice or thrice a-day, to scrofulous tumours, or king's evil, is said to be an infallible remedy. VIOLET, SWEET. Viola OdoratQy Is cultivated in our gardens; leaves heart-shaped, notched, flower deep purple, and odoriferous. A tea-spoonful of the powdered herb is celebrated as a mild laxative. To children, a strong infusion or de- coction formed into a syrup with molasses, honey, or sugar, in doses of a wine-glassful, will be more ac- ceptable. 622 Materia Medica. VIRGIN'S BOWER, Grows about two feet high, near ponds and low pas- tures; leaves opposite in pairs, and terminated by an odd one, the flowers somewhat resemble the appearance of feather tails. A sinall handful of the leaves infused in a quart of boiling water, and given in doses of a gill three times a-day, is said to be very beneficial in venereal sores, or cutaneous eruptions of long standing, particularly if the sores are washed with the same. The bruised green leaves have been applied to ulcers, as an escharotic, to destroy fungous or proud flesh. VIRGINIA, OR BLACK SNAKE ROOT. Serpentaria Vzrginiana^ Grows in rich woodlands, from seven to nine inches high, leaves heart-shaped, flowers of a purplish brown colour. The root is composed of a number of strings or fibres, issuing from one head, and matted together, of a brownish colour on the outside, and pale or yel- lowish within. It has an aromatic smell, and a warm bitterish pun- gent taste. It promotes perspiration, raises the pulse, and resists putrefaction. Hence it is especially adapted to the low and advanced stage of typhus or nervous fever. It may be given in the form of infusion or tea, a handful to a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea- cupful, or in powder, from ten to thirty grains every two or three hours. Conjoined with the Peruvian bark, or any of its substitutes, it is an admirable remedy in obstinate cases of the ague and fever, and other dis- orders of general weakness. In cold phlegmatic habits, it has also been exhibited in the form of tincture, and when united with double the quantity of dogwood bark, or berries, it affords a good bitter. Professor Barton Materia Medica, .623 observes, that a strong decoction of the root was used witli gi\^at benefit as a gargle in a putrid sore throat, which prevailed in New Jersey. Externally applied, the decoction has been found to cure ihe itch. WAKE ROBIN. See Cuckow Pint, WALNUT, WHITE. Jiiglans Alba^ Affords one of the finest cathartic medicines in the whole American Materia Medica. The inner bark, boiled for several hours, then strained and reboiled to the con- sistence of thick honey, forms the best preparation of this invaluable medicine. A common sized pill or two at going to bed, is admirable to remove those costive habits, which occasion head-achs, loaded stomachs, colics, 8vC. And in increased doses, say double quanti- ties, it will be found a sovereign medicine in dysen- tery, bilious fever, and all other complaints requiring aperient medicines, more especially if combined with equal quantities of calomel. I cannot quit this extract without most heartily recommending it to every Ameri- can family to keep it constantly by them. The bark of the root is excellent to raise a blister, therefore may be substituted for Spanish flies. WATER CRESSES, Grows in running brooks and wet ditches. The green herb, eaten as a vegetable, and the express- ed juice in doses of a table-spoonful two or three times a day, is an effectual remedy for the scurvy. 624 Materia Medica. WATER TREFOIL. See Trefoil, ITater. WHITE BRYONY, Grows in low meadows and swamps; the stems twist about bushes, and shoot out to a great extent; the leaves pointed, irregularly toothed, very large, diminishing gradually to the top; flowers of a yellow green, which produce a red berry; the root is white and large. A very strong decoction of the root strained, and then simmered slowly by the fire, until it become of the con- sistence of honey, is said to be a good purgative medi- cine in doses from one to three tea- spoonfuls. WHITE WOOD. See Poplar. WILLOW- Salix, Professor Barton thinks that our willows possess nearly the same virtues that have been ascribed to those of Europe, and that they might be substituted for the Peruvian bark. The bark of the white willow, smooth willow, and crack willow, so called from the remark- able brittleness of its branches, collected when it abounds with sap, has been successfully employed in intermittent or ague and fever, in doses of one or two drachms. The broad-leaved willow is said to possess greater virtues than either of the above. This species may be distinguised by the shape of its leaves from all others, except the bay- leaved willow. The leaves of the latter are smooth and shining, of a deeper green, and have not the downy appearance on the under sur- face, which is so remarkable in this. It is found in Materia Medica. 625 woods and hedges, on hilly situations, and delights in cold clayey moist grounds. A strong decoction of this bark resembles port wine in colour. It is astringent to the taste, and somewhat bitter. According to Dr. Wilkinson, it is a remedy of great efficacy in most cases where the Peruvian bark is indicated. He directs one ounce and a half (a handful) of the bark to be infused in one quart of water for six hours, then boil it over a gentle fire for a quarter of an hour, and strain for use. Of this, the ordinary dose is a is a wine-glassful three or four times a day. But in ague and fever, the dose may be repeated every third hour in the interval of the fit. WINTERBERRY. See Mdery Black. WINTERGREEN. See Calico Tree. WOOD BETONY, Grows about a foot high in upland woods, and old pastures; the stem sqtiare and hairy, the leaves oppo- site, and h iiry, the flowers in spikes of a purple colour. An infusion of the herb, a handful to a quart of boil- ing water, in doses of a tea cupful every two hours, is said to be serviceable in rheumatic or gouty affections. WORMSEED. See Jerusalem Oak. WORMWOOD. See Mugwort. YARROW, Grows in dry pastures, and along the sides of fences, about a foot high; leaves pointed, flowers white, ting- ed with a little purple beneaih. 4K 626 Materia Medica. A handful of the tops of yarrow infused in a quart of boiling water, in doses of a tea-cupful three or four times a day, is reputed to be a valuable medicine in the dysentery, bleeding piles, and restraining immoderate flow of the menses. A table- spoonful of the expressed juice, taken twice a day, and the herb bruised, or in the form of poultice, is said to have cured a cancer of the breast. The green leaves pounded, and applied over a bruise, dissipates it in a few days. COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION OF VEGETJiBLE SUBSTANCES. HERBS and leaves are to be gathered in dry wea- ther, after the dew is off them, and are to be freed from decayed, widiered, or foreign leaves. They are usually tied in bundles, and hung up in a shady, warm, and airy place, or spread upon the floor, and frequently turn- ed. If very juicy, they are laid upon a sieve, and dried by a gentle degree of artificial warmth. They should be dried in such quantities at a time that the process may be finished as quickly as possible; for by this means their powers are best preserved: the test of which is, the perfect preservation of their natural colour. Flowers ought also to be collected in clear dry wea- ther, after the dew is off, immediately after they have opened. They should also be dried nearly as leaves, but more quickly, and with more attention. As they must not be exposed to the sun, it is best done by a slight degree of artificial warmth. Barks and woods should be collected when the most active part of the vegetables are concentrated in them, which happens in spring and in autumn. Spring is preferred for resinous barks, and autumn for those that are gummy. Barks should be taken from young trees, and freed from decayed parts, and all impurities. Seeds and fruits are to be gathered when ripe, but be- fore they fall spontaneously. Roots which are annual, should be collected before they shoot out their stalks or flowers. Those which are worm eaten or decayed are to be rejected. The others 628 Materia Medica, are immediately to be cleaned with a brush and cold water, letting them lie in it as short time as possible; and the fibres and little roots, when not essential, are to be cut away. Roots which consist principally of fibres, and have but a small top, may be immediately dried. If they be juicy, and not aromatic, this may be done by a moderate heat; but if aromatic, by simply exposing them, and frequently turning them in a current of cold dry air. If very thick and strong, they are to be split or cut into slices, and strung upon threads; if covered with a tough bark, they may be peeled fresh, and then dried. Such as lose their virtues by drying, or are di- rected to be preserved in a fresh state, are to be kept buried in dry sand. The proper drying of vegetable substances is of the greatest importance. It is often directed to be done in the shade and slowly, that the volatile and active parti- cles may not be dissipated by too great heat; but this is an error, for they always lose infinitely more by slow than by quick drying. When, on account of the colour, they cannot be exposed to the sun, and the warmth of the atmosphere is insufficient, they should be dried by an artificial warmth less than 100*^ Fahrenheit, and well exposed to a current of air. When perfectly dry and fria- ble, they have little smell; but after being kept some time, they ar tract moisture from the air, and regain their proper odour. DISPENSATORY. HAVING finished, as far as the limits of this work will permit, a general detail of the practice of domestic medicine, adapted to the climate of our country, it now only remains to notice the medicines requisite for family use, and to point out the best forms of prescribing them, in the treatment of the different diseases, described in the preceding parts of this work. The following table of medicines will be found suffi- cient to answer every purpose of domestic practice, and the expense will be found nothing, compared to the great advantages which must result from being constant- ly supplied with them. To render the work still more complete, 1 have, in this table, annexed to the medicines, their doses according to the age of the patient; observ- ing, however, that whatever general rule may be given, it can only be applied with reference to the habit and state of the patient. The judgment of the person who administers the medicine must therefore be exercised in this respect. It will be found that the constitution is often attended with certain peculiarities, both in relation to medicine in general, and also to certain substances particularly, which knowledge is only to be obtained by experience. A. TABLE OF MEDICINES FOR FAMILY USE, WITH THEIR DOSES AND QUALITIES ANNEXED. These doses must be increased, or diminished^ accord- ing to the strength and habit of the patient. ^3^ A Table of Medicines for Family uscy Medicines. Ars. solu. of (a) Antimonial wine —as a diaphoretic Alum Aloes . Arrow root Balsam capivi Balsam Turlington Burley Bitters Borax • Bark, Peruv. (b) Calomel Camphor Cream of tartar Caustic vol alk. liq Corrosive sublimate Columbo Chalk, prepared Camomile flowers Gastile soap Cast(^r oil Es>. Pepper Mint Elixir Vitrol ^ther Vitriolic (c) Flaxseed Gint^er Gamboge Gum Arabic Hartshorn, Spirit Honey Ipecacuanha Jalap Lunar Caustic • Laudanum Magnesia Manna Nitre Nitric Acid Oil of Olive Opium" (d) Oin ment Simple Saturnine Mercurial ■ Basilicon Paregoric Elixir Adult. From 19 to 15 From 15 to 10 From 10 5 to 12 drops 3 to 4 drachms 26 to 60 drops 5 to 15 grains 5 to 20 grains 20 to 80 drops do. do. 2 to 4 drachms 30 grs to 2 dm: 6 to 20 grains 4 to 2C>grains 4 to 12 drms. J to 2 drms. 30 to U drms. 5 to l^ grains 3 to 1 5 grains 4 to 8 drms. i to 1} drms. 10. to 60 grs, 25 to 50 grs. 10 to 50 grains 20 to 45 grains 20 to 80 grs. 4 to 12 drms. 10 to 50 drops 15 to 40 drops ^ to 2 drms. 5 to 25 grains 6 to 12 grains I to 1^ drms. 15 to 30 grains 1 5 to 40 grains A to 3 grains 20 to 60 drops i to 2 drms I to 2 ounces 10 to 30 grains to. 3 grains 1 to 4 drms. 5 to 10 drops 3 to 3^ drms. 20 to 50 drops 4 to 12 grs. 4 to 1 8 grs. 1 7 to 60 drops do. do. I to 3 drms. 25 to 14 drms. 4 to 10 grains 2 to 10 grains 3 to 8 drms. ' drm. 20 to 60 grains 3 to 10 drms. 10 to 40 drops 12 to 35 drops ^ to U drms. 5 to 20 grains 5 to 10 grains I to 1 drm. 12 to 25 grains 10 to 30 grains to 2^ grains 15 to 50 drops I to lA drm. 1 to 1^ ounce 10 to 25 grains I to 2 grains 1 to 3 drms. 4 to 8 drops 2^ to 3 drms. 15 to 40 drops 3 to 10 grains 3^ to 15 grains 15 to 40 drops do. do. 1 to 2 drms. i to 8 to 40 grains 16 to 40 grains 20 to 50 grains 3 to 8 drms. 8 to 3C drops 10 to 30 drops 30 dps. to i dm 4 to 18 grains 4 to 8 grains 20 to 50 drops 10 to 20 grains 8 to 25 grains ^ to 2 grains, 12 to 40 drops 20 grs. to 1 dm ^ to 1 J ounce 8 to 20 grains 1 to 1 gram 1 to 2 drms. 3 to 6 dr 2 to 2^ d 12 to 30 d 2 to 7 gr 3 to 12 g;I 1 2 to 30 d p do. 0. 20 to 1 dn 3 to 8 gr 2 to 6 gr. 2 to 5 drii. 25 to 50 d p 7 to 35 gil 15 to 35 g 15 to 40 2| o 6 di 6 to 20 d 8 to 20 d 18 dps. to 3 to 15 g r 3 to 6 gr 1! 1 5 to 30 di 8 to 1 5 g 6 to 20 g to 'i ^ 10 to 25 d 1 5 to 50 g * to I oui 5 to 12 g 50<}ps. IJ With their Doses and Qualities Annexed. 633 5 drops 21 drms ) 40 grains 6 grains 4 grains 4 drms 40 drops 12 grains 15 drops From 4 to 2 | From 2 to 1 1 to 4 drops 1 lo 2 drms 8 to 15 drops 1 to 3 strains U to 8 grains 8 to 15 drops do. do. 12 to 30 8;rains 2 to 5 grains I to 3 grains I to 3 drms 15 to 30 drops 5 to 20 grains 10 to 25 grains 10 to 25 graitis 1-| to 4 drms 3 lo 12 drops 4 to 10 drops 12 to 40 drops 2 to 10 grains 5 to 10 'drops 5 to. 10 grains 4 to 12 grains t'^ to ^ grain 5 to 15 drops 8 to 3Q grains 2 to 4 drms 2 to 8 g;rains 20 to 50 drops J«to 3 drops 1 to 1^ drm. 6 to 10 drops l.to 6 grains 5 to 10 drops do. do. 10 to 25 grams 2 to 4 grains 1 to 2 grains ■| to 2 drms 10 to 20 drops 4 to 15 grains 7 to 20 grains 8 to 20 grains 1 to 3 drms 2 to 10 drops 2 to 6 drops • 8 to 30 drops 2 to 8 grains 3 to 8 drops 4 to 8 grains 3 to 8 grains 3 to 8 drops 6 to 20 grains 1 to 3 ANODYNE SUDORIFIC DROPS. Take of Laudanum, one part Antimonial wine, two parts. Mix. 644 Dispensatory. Recipe 18. ANODYNE SUDORIFIC DRAUGHT, Is prepared by adding a dose of the above drops to a cup of sweetened tea. , Recipe 19. TONIC DROPS. See Tincture of Steel. A dose to be taken thrice a-day. Recipe 20. ANODYNE SUDORIFIC BOLUS. Take of Opium, one grain Ipecacuanha, ten grains Syrup sufficient to form a bolus. Or, Opium and tartar emetic, each one grain Mucilage of gum Arabic sufficient to form a pill. Recipe 21. STIMULANT PURGATIVE PILLS. Take of Calomel and gamboge, each one drachm Soap, ten grains Syrup sufficient to form a mass. Beat them loge^ht r, ;uid then make twenty-four pills. Dose f<^r an adult, from three lo six. Or, Calomel Aloes and Soap, each one drachm Syrup sufficient to form a mass. Dispensatory, 645 To be divided into thirty-six pills. Dose for an adult, from four to eight. Or, Calomel, one drachm Jalap, two drachms Soap, ten grains Syrup or mucilage sufficient to form a mass. To be divided into thirty-six pills. Dose for an adult, from six to eight. Recipe 22. PILLS OF SUGAR OF LEAD AND IPECACU- ANHA. Take of Sugar of lead and Ipecacuanha, each six grains Opium, one grain. Syrup sufficient to form a mass. Divide in four parts; one pill to be taken every three hours, until the hemorrhage ceases. Recipe 23. TONIC PILLS. Add a sufficient quantity of syrup to the tonic pow- ders, to form a mass, and make pills of an ordinary size. The number constituting a dose, to be taken thrice a day. Recipe 24. VITRIOLIC PILLS. Add a little crumb of bread, to any given quantity of white vitriol, and syrup sufficient to form a mass; then divide the mass into as many parts as there are doses of white vitriol, according to the age of the patient. One pill to be taken thrice a day. 645 JOispensatory. Recipe 25. MERCURIAL PILLS. Take of Calomel, one drachm Opium and Tartar emetic, each ten grains Crumb of bread a small quantity Syrup, or mucilage of gum Arabic, sufficient to form a mass. Divide into forty parts. One pill to be taken night and morning by an adult. Recipe 26. MERCURIAL SOLUTION. Take of Corrosive sublimate, twenty-four grains Laudanum, half an ounce Spirits, one pint and a half. Mix. Dose for an adult, from three to six drachms, twice a day. Recipe 27, SATURATED SOLUTION OF ARSENIC. Take of Arsenic in powder, about one drachm Water, half a pint. Boil it for half an hour in a Florence flask, or in a tin sauce-pan; let it stand to subside, and when cold, filter it through paper. To two ounces of this solution, add half an ounce of spirit of lavender. A dose to be taken twice or thrice a day. Dispensatory, 647 Recipe 28. SOLUTION OF CRUDE SAL AMMONL\C. Dissolve half an ounce of crude sal ammoniac in one pint and a half of cold water, and then add half a pint of vinegar. Recipe 29. ASTRINGENT WASHES, Take of Lime water, half a pint Brandy, four ounces. Mix. Or, Lime water, half a pint Corrosive sublimate, fifteen grains. Mix. Or, Lime water, half a pint Tincture of myrrh, one ounce. Mix. Or, Make a solution, either of lunar caustic or blue vi- triol in water, of sufficient strength to produce a little smarting. To be applied on lint to the sore. Recipe 30. SOLUTION OF KALI. Dissolve from one to two drachms of salt of tartar, in half a pint of water, to be applied as the above. Recipe 31, LIME WATER. Pour two gallons of water graduajly, upon a pound of fresh burnt quicklime; and when the ebullition 648 Dispensatory. ceases, stir them well together; then suffer the whole to stand at rest till the lime has settled; after which strain off the clear liquor, and keep it in vessels closely stopt. Calcined oyster- shells may be used instead of quick- lime. Recipe 32. TAR WATER. Pour a gallon of water on two pounds of tar, and stir them strongly together with a wooden rod. When they have stood to settle two days, pour off the water for use. Recipe 33. CAUSTIC ALKALI, OR SOAP-LEES. Mix two parts of quicklime, with one of pot-ashes; and suffer them to stand till the lixivium be formed, which must be carefully filtrated through paper, before it be used. If the solution does not happen readily, a small quantity of water may be added to the mixture. Recipe 34. ANODYNE WATER. Take of Rose or common water, two ounces Laudanum, two drachms. Mix. Dispensatory* 649 Recipe 35. SATURNINE, OR LEAD WATER. Take of Sugar of lead, two drachms Water, one pint and a half. Mix. Or, Extract of lead, two drachms ^irits, half an ounce vVater, one pint and a half. Mix the extract and spirits, and then add the water. Recipe 36. DECOCTION OF BARK. Take of Bark, one ounce Boiling water, one pint. Simmer them together for ten minutes, and strain off the liquor. Recipe 37. COLD INFUSION OF BARK, Mix one ounce and a half of bark in powder, in a quart of water; let it stand twenty-four hours, occasion- ally shaking the bottle, and then strain off the liquor. This preparation is superior to the decoction. A dose to be taken every hour or two. 4N 650 Dispensatory^ Recipe 38. PURGATIVE INFUSION. Take of Senna, two drachms Salts and Manna, each half an ounce Boiling water, three gills. A large wine-glassful of the infusion to be taken every hour by an adult, until it operates. n Recipe 39. INFUSION OF COLUMBO. Take of Columbo bruised, three drachms Boiling water, half a pint. Mix. After steeping for one hour, pour off the in- fusion. Recipe 40. COMMON GARGLE. Take of Barley water, or Flaxseed tea, half a pint Crude sal ammoniac, one drachm. Mix. Or, Sage tea, half a pint Vinegar, half an ounce Nitre, one drachm Honey, one ounce. Mix. Dispensatory, 651 Recipe 41. ASTRINGENT GARGLE. Take of Sage tea, or Infusion of roses, half a pint Vinegar, and Honey, each two ounces Ahim, half a drachm. Mix. Or, Infusion of oak, or Peruvian bark, half a pint Honey, one ounce Alum, half a drachm. Mix. Recipe 42, DETERGENT GARGLE. Take of Astringent gargle, half a pint Tincture of myrrh, from half an ounce to an ounce. Mix. Recipe 43. ITCH LOTION. Take of Corrosive sublimate, one drachm Crude sal ammoniac, two drachms Water, one pint and a half. Mix. 652 Dispensatory. Recipe 44. INJECTIONS. Take of White vitriol and * Sugar of lead, each one scruple Mucilage of gum Arabic, or Common water, half a pint. Mix, and after standing ten or fifteen minutes, strain off the clear liquor. An ordinary syringe full, to be thrown up the urethra six or eight times a day, after making water. Or, Recipe 45. Dissolve thirty grains of white vitriol, in half a pint of mucilage of gum Arabic or water. To be used as the above. Or, Recipe 46. Dissolve one grain and a half of corrosive sublimate mercury in lialf a pint of water. To be used as the above. These injections may be made weaker and stronger, according to circumstances. Recipe 47* EMOLLIENT GLYSTER. Take of Flaxseed tea and Milk, each six ounces. Mix. Or, Dispensatory, 653 Recipe 48. Warm water, half a pint Molasses, four ounces, or, Sweet oil and Brown sugar, each two ounces. Mix. If one drachm of laudanum be added to either of the above formulae, it forms the anodyne glyster. Recipe 49. STIMULATING GLYSTER. Take of Common salt and Brown sugar, each one ounce Olive, or Castor oil, two ounces Water, half a pint. Mix. Recipe 50. ANTIMONIAL WINE. Take of Glass of antimony powdered, two ounces Madeira wine, two pints. Digest for twelve days, now and then shaking the bottle, and then strain through paper. Recipe 51. LAUDANUM, OR THEBAIC TINCTURE. Take of Purified opium, two ounces Brandy, two pints. Digest for eight or ten days, frequently shaking the bottle, then strain off the tincture. 654 Dispensatory, Recipe 52, TINCTURE OF RHUBARB. Take of Rhubarb, three ounces Lesser cardamom seeds, or Ginpfer, bruised, half an ounce Brandy, or Rum, two pints. Digest for eight or ten days, and then strain. Recipe 53. TINCTURE OF BARK. Take of Peruvian bark, powdered, two ounces Orange peel, and Virginia snake root, each half an ounce Brand}', or Rum, two pints. Digest for eight or ten days, and strain. Recipe 54. TINCTURE OF COLUMBO. Take of Columbo root, bruised, three ounces Brandy, two pints. Digest for several days, and strain. Dispensatory. 655 Recipe 55. TINCTURE OF FOXGLOVE. Take of Dried leaves of foxglove, one ounce Brandy, half a pint. Digest for a week, and strain through paper. Recipe 56. TINCTURE OF CANTHARIDES. Take of Cantharides bruised, two drachms Brandy, one pint. Digest for seven or eight days, and then strain. Recipe 57. TINCTURE OF MYRRH. ♦ Take of Myrrh in powder, one ounce and a half Spirits, one pint. Digest for seven days, and strain. Recipe 58. PAREGORIC ELIXIR, OR CAMPHORATED TINCTURE OF OPIUM, Take of Purified opium Flowers of benzoin Camphor, and - Essential oil of aniseed, each two drachms Brandy, two pints. Digest for eight or ten days, frequently shaking the bottle, and then strain the elixir. 656 Dispensatory. Recipe 59. TURLINGTON'S BALSAiM, OR COMPOUND TINCTURE OF BENZOIN. Take of Benzoin, three ounces Balsam of Tolu, one ounce Aloes, half an ounce Brandy, two pints. Digest for seven days, and strain. Recipe 60. RHEUMATIC TINCTURE. Take of Gum guaiac Vitriolated tartar in powder, each three ounces Spirits, two pints. Digest for eight or ten days, and strain. A dose to be taken twice or thrice a day. Recipe 61. BITTERS. Take of Gentian root, two ounces Orange peel, and White canella, each ounce Brandy, two pints. Digest for several days, and then strain. Dispensatory* 657 Recipe 62. CAMPHORATED SPIRITS, OR TINCTURE OF CAxMPHOR. Take of Camphor, two ounces Brandy, one pint. Mix thcni together, that the camphor may be dis- soivcd. Recipe 63. OPODELDOC, OR SOAP LINIMENT. Take of Castile soap powdered, three ounces Camphor, one ounce Brandy, one pint. Digest the soap in the spirit by the fire until it is dissolved, and then add the camphor. Recipe 64. VOLATILE LINIMENT, OR AMMONIATED OIL. Take of Olive Oil, two ounces Hartshorn, one ounce. Mix. Recijye 65. CAMPHORATED OIL. Take of Camphor, half an ounce Olive oil, two ounces. Moisten the camphor with a little spirit, and then rub it in a mortar with the oil, until dissolved. 4 O 658 Dispensatory* Recipe 66. HiEMORRHOIDAL OINTMENT. Take of Galls levigated, two parts Hogs lard, eight parts. Mix. Recipe 67. SIMPLE OINTMENT. Take of Olive oil, five parts White wax, two parts. - Mix them together by a slow fire, and stir until it is cold. Recipe 68. SATURNINE OINTMENT. Take of Sugar of lead, two drachms White wax, two ounces Olive oil, half a pint. Rub the sugar of lead previously powdered, with some part of the olive oil; then add it to the wax melt- ed with the remaining oil, and stir the mixture until it be cold. Recipe 69. MERCURIAL OINTMENT. Take of Quick-silver, and Hogs lard, each one pound Dispensatory, 659 Tallow, one ounce Spirits of turpentine, half an ounce. First triturate the quick- silver with the tallow and spirits of turpentine, until the globules entirely disap- pear; then add the lard and form it into an ointment. Recipe 70, BASILICON OINTMENT. Take of Rosin, Bees-wax, each one pound Hogs lard, one pound and a half. Melt them together by a slow fire, and strain the mixture while hot. Recipe 71. TURNER'S CERATE. Take of Calamine prepared Yellow wax, each half a pound Hogs lard, one pound. Melt the wax with the lard, and as soon as the mix- ture, exposed to the air, begins to thicken, mi^with it the calamine, and stir the cerate until it be cold. Recipe 72. BLISTERING PLASTER. Take of Wax Rosin Tallow, and Cantharides, each equal parts. 660 Dispensatory. Havin,^ melted the three first ingredients together, sprinkle and mix in the flies powdered, a little before they become firm. When I he blistering plaster is not at hand, its place may be supplied by sprinkling the flies over any oint- ment or paste, spread thin on leather or cloth. Recipe 73. SINAPISMS. Take of Good mustard, and Flour, or crumbs of bread, each equal parts Sharp vinegar, suflBcient to form a poultice. It may be rendered more stimulating if necessary, by the addition of a little garlic or horse-radish. ^ APPENDIX. BILIOUS FEVER. (referred to in page 290.) IT was this disease commissioned by Heaven to ter- minate the earthly existence of that amiable young fo- reigner, Dr. MoNTEATH, of the British army. But how can I think of him or his early fate without thinking at the same time of the 24th of August, that dark and dismal day! the darkest and most dismal of all in the American calendar, which threw such a gloom over the rising glories of my country! But a short time before that awful tragedy, I was congratulating myself, so little do we know what is be- fore us, as being happily situated in a city founded by the great Washington himself, and called after his name: a city where liberal nature had done so much, and where art and population alone were requisite to erect an em- porium that should vie with the noblest cities of the an- cient world, and through time immemorial display the grandeur of its high original. But a few days, I say, before this, I was indulging a train of thoughts so pleas- ing to the patriotic bosom, when I heard that the Bri- tish squadron in the Chesapeake bay, having received a reinforcement, had landed a small army at Benedict, on the river Patuxent. Many of my neighbours ap- peared to be much alarmed that the enemy should be so near. But, for myself, I can truly say, that my bo- som was never more entirely a stranger to panic, than at that season; for I was firmly persuaded that the en- emy could have no other object in view, than the des- truction of our flotilla, which unfortunately had been chased some weeks before up the Patuxent. I could not for a moment suppose it possible, that he would Capture of Washington. have had the temerity to approach this place, particu- larly after giving so long notice of the arrival of the van of admiral Cochrane's fleet, which was about the middle of July. And it was very natural for them to ex- pect our government would adopt the necessary pre- caution of having a force competent at least to prevent the destruction of our city. What! to make an attack on Washington, the me- tropolis of the United States, and in the interior too! fif- ty miles from their shipping, with woods and forests enough between to give our marksmen an opportunity to cut off ten times their number! Under these circum- stances will they ever dream of attacking Washington? No, never. With far better chance they attacked Fort Stevenson, and also Sackctt's Harbour, and Fort Erie; but the gallant Croghan, Brown, Backus, Scott, Gaines, Ripley, Towson, &c. soon gave them cause to repent of their temerity. And will they now dare invade the city of Washington, with such an immense population between, and such large cities to aid, and the President, Mr. Mun- roe. Gen. Armstrong, Capt. Jones, and Gen. Winder to protect? Such was my reasoning, and a very fair way of reasoning too, I thought. And I was encou- raged in this belief, by learning that the President and his cabinet were in high spirits, and that Gen. Win- der, with only a small detachment of his army, under the command of the gallant Major Peter, of Georgetown, had held the enemy in check for a day or two. But, behold! on the evening of the 23d, Gen. Win- der retreated precipitately to Washington. However, I was not still without some consolation; for, on the same evening. Col. Minor, with his regiment from Vir- ginia, arrived in the city a little after sun-set. Immedi- ately on his arrival, he requested me to present him to the President, which I did, as I also did my worthy school-mate. Dr. Peake, surgeon of the regiment. We had not long been seated before the President ob- served that Col. Minor ought to have reported himself to the Secretary of war; consequently we hastened to the lodgings of Gen. Armstrong. After Col. Minor had Capture of Washington. 663 held a short interview with the secretary, he returned with me to my house. On the way, instead of anima- ting my hopes, he became as it where Job's comforter, observing, such was the astonishing indiiference mani- fested on this occasion, that he felt no hesitation to de- clare it as his opinion, that the city would be sacrificed. Instead of being immediately supplied with arms and ammunition, he was, it seems, instructed to make his men put in order the few guns which they had brought with them, and in the morning to report himself to Col. Carberry, who would furnish additional arms! Early next morning Col. Minor made application for the arms; but was informed Col. Carberry had gone out to his country seat the evening before! After several hours spent in most painful waiting for his return. Col. Minor was authorised by Gen. Winder to get the arms by any means. About this time Col. Carberry rode up. But, behold! another cause of delay was presented. The arms were dealt out at last, but without flints! and in- stead of throwing them out by handfuls, they were ac- tually counted out, one by one^ as carefully as if they had been so many guineas. And it is a fact, that after counting out a considerable number, the man employed in this economizing business, fearing he had miscounted, insisted upon counting them over again! Thus was our republic, at this awful crisis, deprived of the services of Col. Minor and his regiment. For, in consequence of the above shameful delay, they were not able to johi the army before the retreat. Receiving good information that the enemy was in ra- pid march for Bladensburg, Gen. Winder, then lying near the Eastern branch bridge, moved on to meet him there, where Gen. Stansbury, with his brigade from Baltimore, was stationed. The reader will observe that Bladensburg is a small village, about five miles from the capital, on the Anecos- tic or Eastern branch, where it is narrowed to a creek, which is passed on a bridge, and is every where above foidable. The village lies on the east side of this creek. On the west is a fine rising ground, with fences and bushes favourable to an invaded force of good 664 Capture of Washingtotu marksmen, besides a small breast- work which was has- tily cast up. This spot Generals Winder and Stansbury fixed on to receive the enemy, who, about twelve o'clock, came in full view on the hills of Biadensburg, and very soon afterwards the battle commenced. The enemy finding, on getting near the bridge, he should have to pass a defile between the creek and marsh in front of our battery, instantly displayed a hea- vy column to the right, and passed the ford higher up the creek. This judicious movement, by deprivmg our men of the promised advantages of their battery, as also presenting an appearance of an attempt to surround them, excited both alarm and despondence. The Bri- tish having but one or two six-pounders, and knowing that the whole success of the expedition depended on carrying every thing with a coup de main, pushed on with a rapidity and firmness which raw troops were not to have been expected to resist, and consequently a ge- neral rout of the militia ensued. That the enemy would have met with a very differ- ent reception, had our troops been in a tolerable state of preparation, is evident from the following fact. The gallant Barney, Martin, and their brave comrades of the flotilla, and Miller, Sevier, and Grayson of the ma- rine corps, were on the field of battle, but caught no- thing of the epidemic fright. On the contrary, eager to stop the progress of the enemy, they came up in a trot, opening at the same time a destructive fire, which made hideous lanes through the British columns. But these columns were familiar with the ravages of death, and fighting under the eye of Ross, and headed by Thorn- ton, Wood and Brown, fearlessly filling up the chasms of fate, pushed forward with undaunted courage. But it was not for a few hundred troops to repel the enemy; and at length, overpowered by such vast superiority of numbers, their ammunition wagons re- treating, and themselves nearly surrounded, they were constrained to retire, leaving their commanding ofiicers, the gallant Barney and Miller, dangerously wounded on the field. I shall not attempt to described my feelings during Capture of Washington. 665 this awful conflict between the enemy and my coun- trymen. From the frequ' nt advices brought that morn- ing of the approach of the enemy, as also from the general movement of our troops to meet him at Bla- densburg, the inhabitants of Washington had been some time in a state of extreme anxifty, expecting every moment the report of the guns that should an- nounce the commencement of the battle. Between twelve and one, while with my trembling fa- mily in the third story of my house, we beheld the rock- ets ascending, and soon heard the roar of the cannon. When the firing had ceased, my feelings were left in fearful fluctuation; — now fondly hoping that my coun- trymen had prevailed — then awfully fearing that all was lost. This anguish of suspense was, however, but mo- mentary. I soon discovered the dust beginning to rise above the forests in thick clouds, on whose dark tops growing larger and larger every minute, and rapidly ad- vancing, I read the dismal fate that awaited us. Presently I beheld the unfortunate secretary of war and suite, in full flight, followed by crowds of gentlemen on horse- back, some of .whom loudly bawled out as they came on, "^y, jiy; the ruffians are at hand! If you cannot get away yourselves, for God's sake send off "^oyxx wives and daughters^ for the ruffians are at hand!" Wlicn 1 surveyed the extended lines of our infantry and cavalry enveloped in clouds of dust as if universal nature was in tumultuous motion, all heightened by the fearful apprehension, that the horrid scenes exhibited by the enemy in Hampton and Havre de Grace were about to be acted in Washington, I felt myself palsied with horror. And as if the measure of my distress was not yet full, my wife standing by my side with looks wild with terror, as though she beheld the enemy in sight, cried out, OA, what shall we do? what shall we do? yonder they are comingP'' and fell into convulsions; my two daughters shrieking by her side. The reader, especially if he be an affectionate husband, may form some idea of my affliction. I shall not attempt to describe it. Supposing now that the tragedy of destruction was 4P C66 Capture of IFashington. about to commence, and finding it impossible to obtain even a cart to remove my f;aniily to the country, I took my wife and two daughters, a little before sun-set, and leaving my house and property in the hands of servants, went to the hou-sc of a sick lady. Although Mrs. Orr, the lady whom I ailude to, did not live more than a hundred yards from my house, I considered it a place of greater safety, as her extreme ill state of health would doubtless have protected her, even had the enemy been as was represented, ruffians.''^ Moreover, I was indu- ced to go to the house of Mrs. Orr in consequence of her earnest entreaties, as her husband was from home, and some of her servants had run off with the frighten- ed multitude, leaving her in a situation truly distressing. About twilight the enemy made his appearance in the city, which was announced by the firing of muskets from the house of Mr. Sevvall, followed by several vollies from the British. The fire of our men from Mr. Sewaii's house killed two Br itish soldiers, wounded several, and killed the horse of major-general Ross. The conse- quence was, this house was immediately set on fire, and much valuable furniture consumed with it. And I was informed by some of the British officers, that it was a most fortunate thing that major-general Ross was not killed, for in that event, it would have been impossible to have restrained the soldiery, who idolized him,- from commiting the most horrid outrages both on our city and its inhabitants. It was not many minutes after the exhibition of thid scene, before we were presented with the spectacle so much dreaded — a full view of the advance of the British army in the capitol square! About this lime, the navy, yard was committed to flames by commodore Tingey, in pursuance of orders from Secretary Jones; and very soon afterwai ds, the British set fire to the capitol, the president's house, and the war office. The treasury office shared a similar fate the next morning. The con- vflagration of these noble and splendid buildings spread a glare over the night that was truly awful. But the confiagration of our large new frigate, nearly ready to Capture of JVashington, 667 launch, and the new sloop of war, equipped! with all the adjacent magazines filled with naval stores, exhibi- ted an appearance still incomparably more terrific. In common with other men, I have drunk of the bit- ter cup of affliction; but it vvas reserved fcr that dole- ful night to teach me that private misfortune weighs but as the dust in the balance against the far heavier load of public calamity. To behold so great a calamity as this — the capital of our country seized upon by a small army ^ and all its grand public buildings and ships wrapped in flames, what wonder that it should have filled all hearts with consternation, and even frightened some into convulsions. Had such a number of troops as military men might have deemed sufficient, been timely provided for the defence of the metropolis; and had those troops, in all points well prepared, gone forth and met the en- emy in a gallant conflict — the feelings of the nation, even under discomfiture, would not have been so grie- vously wounded, "for the victory is of God." But so shamefully was the public interest and honour sported with on this occasion, that nothing but the overthrow of the enemy at Niagara, Chippewa, Erie, Sandusky, and Orleans, together with the brilliant achievements of our infant navy, could ever again elevate the coun- tenance of an American citizen, or enable him to support the spirit and dignity of a man. For when the British, four thousand strong, made their appearance on the hills of Bladensburg, dressed in their crimson uni- forms, and began to press on to the charge, our militia men, about six thousand, generally gave way. And without wonder, for nothing had been done to prepare them for such a conflict. Raw troops, suddenly brought together, and taken, as it were, by surprise, were, as is very natural, seized with consternation. Some of the officers bewildered, seemed at a loss who should command — the men whom to obey — some were destitute of arms — others of am- munition — and many, by long marching and counter- marching, without rest or refreshment, were so broken down that they were not able to sustain such a shock. 668 Capture of JVashington. But while I lament the causes which led to the dis- comfiture of the militia in general, I feel it my duty to recognize those smaller, and therefore still more glo- rious exceptions, the district militia, or at least those who were on the field of battle. So far from their run- ning or retreating in disorder, they generally exhibited every mark of heroism, particularly the volunteer com- panies, who did not withdraw until ordered the second time to retreat. I have thought it a duty I owe my countrymen, thus to dwell on this disastrous affair, as furnishing an in- structive lesson, at any rate, to all future secretaries of war. I must confess, however, that I find much com- fort in the belief, that no disaster of this sort is to be apprehended, while the office continues to be filled by the honouable William H. Crawford, whose talents and virtues are so highly and deservedly appreciated. How an undisciplined militia, under such distressing circumstances as above related, will behave on any fu- ture occasion, may be awfully inferred from their be- haviour on the past. Soon as the enemy began to throw his rockets, many of the raw militia men, at sight of these strange shooting stars, as they were ascending, roared out, See! see! there they go! there they go!^^ But when the rockets were seen descending in a direc- tion towards themselves, they loudly bawled out again, ** j\o! here they come! here they come!^"* and dropping their guns, fled like frightened sheep in every direction, except, indeed, towards the enemy. A gentleman, a short distance beyond Bladensburg, hearing the report of the cannon, iinmediately rode to- wards the field of battle; but before he had gone far, he met several companies of the militia in full flight. *'What," says he, *Vsoldiers, you are not running?" Oh, no!" exclaimed some of them, "we have done our duty — our ammunition is spent. We gave it to them; boys, didn't we?" " Yes," returned his com- rades. We peppered the rascals — we strewed the d — d red coats — and if the others will only do their duty, not Capture of Wash ington . 669 one of them will ever get back to their vessels." The gentleman suspecting iheir poltroonism, and obtaining by stratagem a peep into their cartridge boxes, found they were full, except the single cartridge with which their guns were loaded! Another anecdote, and I have done. A militia officer making his retreat, attempted by way of a short cut to cross a deep oozy marsh, which presently stopped both himself and his horse. In endeavouring to extricate himself, he received a small scratch, which made him bawl out, " I arn wounded! I am mortally wounded^'' Some of the soldiers, supposing from his cries that the British were close at their heels, only ran the faster; however, a few, wiping their eyes, and not beholding the dazzling red coats, went to his relief. On examin- ing the back part of his thigh, where he said he had received his mortal xvound^ they found it to be nothing more than a prick of his own spur! With such disorderly, panic-struck creatures, who ' but must commend Gen. Winder for ordering a re- treat, not indeed to save these fugitives^ for they took care to save themselves, but to save the flower of our gallant yeomanry, who were eager for a conflict, where- in, at such odds against them, they must certainly have perished — for it was but too plain that our sacred capitol was doomed to fall. Never shall I forget my tortured feelings, when beheld that noble edifice wrapped in flames, which, bursting through the windows, and mounting far above its summits, with a noise like thunder, filled all the sad- dened night, with a dismal gloom. To heighten our alarms and those of Mrs. Orr, we were suddenly startled by a most tremedous rapping, at the door. Soon as the door was opened, five or six British soldiers presented themselves, asking very po- litely for something to eat. Instantly a cold ham, with loaf bread and butter, and wine, were set before them, which they partook of, conducting themselves with the utmost good behaviour. Presently I beheld a light in every room in my house, 670 Capture of Washington, which, with the reflection from the capitol then in flames, led me to fear it was on fire. Not having remo- ved any part of my property, and anxious to save at least my medical library, I communicated my fears to the soldiers who were at supper, and solicited their aid. The Serjeant observed he could not think it possible niy house was on fire; but afe any rate, if I thought so, he and his men were ready to go with me, and give all the aid in their power. In a few minutes, however, I found out my mistake, by the sudden extinction of the lights, and also by the arrival of my servant, who in- formed me that my house had been plundered by the British soldiers. While I was standing at the door, the Rev. Mr. M'Cormick came up, and told me if I would accompany him, he would introduce me to niajor general Ross and admiral Cock burn, with whom he had been conversing, and found them to be ''''perfect gentlemen,'''' Hoping from this circumstance to derive security to ray house and what property remained, I readily accompanied him and was introduced, as he thought, to general Ross; but it was unwittingly to the admiral, who rectified the mistake of the reverend gen- tleman, by saying in his quick and piercing tone, 7ny name is Cockhiirn, sir.''^ I told him I had understood that private property was to be held sacred, and that I had placed implicit confidence in the report. He an- swered that " it would be so deemed." I replied, that *' some of my furniture, apparel and plate, had been pliindered." With whom did you confide your property, sir?'* I answered," With my servants." Well, sir, let me tell you it was very ill confidence to repose your property in the care of servants." In the mean time, general Ross came up, to whom I was also introduced. He had just come in time to infer from what admiral Cockburn had said, that my house had been robbed. In a tone that will for ever endear him to me as a ''' perfect gentleman'*^ indeed, he observed he was very sorry to hear that my house had been dis- turbed, and begged that I would tell him which it was^ Capture of fFashi?igto?i. 671 and he would order a sentinel to guard it. We were then standing before my. door, the south end of Carroll's row, facing the capitol. This is my house, sir," said I. With an amiable embarrassment he replied, " Why, sir, this is the house we had pitched on for our head- quarters." I told him, I was glad of it, and regretted that he had not taken it earlier, as my property would then have bt.en protected." He observed, he could never think of trespassing on the repose of a private family, and would order his baj2:gage 6ut of my house immtdiately." 1 earnestly begged he would still consider it as his head-quarters. " Well, sir," said he, since you are so good as to insist on my staying at your house, I consent; but I will, endeavour to give you as little trouble as possible. Any apartnjent under your roof will suffice me." I asked him to accompany me and I would show him a room. He assented, and I conducted him to my own bed-chamber, which was the best furnished in my house, with an uncommonly large mattress on the bed. He refused for some time to accept of it, and insisted I should go ai d bring Mrs. Ewell home; observing, that I might depend on it my family should be just as safe as they were the evening before when the American army was here; for, continued he, / am viyself a married man — have several sweet children — and vene- rate the sanctities of the conjugal and domestic rela- tions,'^'* 1 feel no fear of offending my virtuous countrymen, by exhibiting even in an enemy such strokes of refine- ment and generosity as these. Thank God, such achiev- ments are too congenial with their own spirit and man- ners, not to be read with pleasure. The commander in chief of a victorious army, carry- ing himself with such consummate modesty and polite- ness to those whom the fortune of war had placed in his power is a spectacle to honourable to human nature, and too conductive to the general good, to give offence. 672 Capture of Washington. Ill all wars, there are brutes on both sides, whose savage examples would turn men into demons, and war into a horrid struggle for mutual slaughter and extermi- nation. All are concerned to oppose examples so de- testable. Then let all unfurl the counter-examples of those heroic spiriss, who mourn over the calamities which they are obliged to inflict, and treat the van- quished as brothers. The lovely sight will attract the eyes of all, and while they admire they may imitate. — With this fond hope, I bhall go on occasionally to en- tertain my readers with such anecdotes of the British officers, as may contribute, now that the war is at an end, to rekindle the pleasant flame of former friend- ship and lead to the performance of those fraternal acts which will gratify the common parent of us all. Having thus made a virtue of necessity, and from true policy as well as politeness, left my house and fur- niture in possession of the Batish general and admi- ral, I went down to my ftimily at Mrs. Orr's. The next morning, about the hour of breakfast, I re- turned, and as I approached my house, -I saw the sol- dier who was holding the horse of general Ross, sud- denly fall down in a fit. I hastened to the poor fellow, and opened a vein, which gave him immediate relief. While I was attending to him, a British serjeant came up at the head of a file of soldiers, one of whom de- sired me, rather roughly, to give him some water. Without suspecting offence, I called to my servant, and ordered him to bring out a pitcher of water. What meaning the Englishman could have attached to the word pitcher^ I know not; but kindling into a violent passion, he exclaimed, You d — d rebel, do you think I am a beast to drink out of a pitcher?" At this moment general Ross, who had overheard the in- solent language of his soldier, stepped up. The man, greatly abashed, instantly turned his face, and seemed as if he would have shrunk among his comrades; but the general, with every mark of displeasure in his coun- tenance, jerking him by the collar, exclaimed, ** FiUian, is this the way you speak to a gentleman! — and in the Capture of Washington* 673 moment, too, that he is doing a kindness to a sick fel- low soldier of your own? Serjeant, what sort of a man is this?" The Serjeant, with considerable trepidation, replied, *' Why^ sir, he is a pretty good sort of a man, I believe, sir!" A pretty good sort of a man, sir!" replied the general, a pretty good sort of a man! to speak to a gentleman in this style? Very well, sir, this conduct shall not pass unnoticed." He then turned to me, and after thanking me for my - goodness i"*^ as he called it, to his fainting soldier, ob- served, that in all armies there were some scoundrels to be found, and that he was sorry to say there were too many of that description in his army. Sometime after this, Mrs. Ewell and my daughters came to Mrs. M*Cardell's, next door to my house. As soon as captain Palmer, who had been in her company at Mrs. Orr's, saw her coming, he moved on with gene- ral Ross to meet her, and very politely introduced her to him. The general shook her hand with every mark of undissembled friendship; expressed his deep regret to learn that she had been so seriously frightened; and lamented sincerely the necessity that had given cause to these tragedies — namely, the burning of the British capital in Canada. Had the capital of Canada been burnt with the approbation of our government, there might have been some apology for the shameful destruction of our noble buildings; but I am happy in the belief, that though this was the impression of general Ross, it was not an act of the government. Mrs. Ewell, sensible of such unexpected attentions, made every acknowledgment that her confusion would permit, and endeavoured to relax her melancholy into a smile; but it was evidently an act of constraint. Grief was too deeply seated, to be thus easily banished from her cheeks, which still wore the marks of tears and of fright; and which evidently excited the tenderest sympathies of general Ross, as well as of the other officers. Mrs. Ewell was but a short time at Mrs, 4Q 674 Capture of fVashingtoji, M^CardelPs, before admiral Cockburn paid his respects to her, and in his apparently rough way, asked, Pray, madam, what could have alarmed you so? Did you take us for savages?" Her confusion preventing her from making a reply, he added, " Ay, madam, I can easily account for your terror. I see, from the files in your house, that you are fond of reading those papers which delight to make devils of us." It is but justice to admiral Cockburn to declare, that he frequently came to Mrs. M^Cardell's, making inquiries about the state of Mrs. Ewell's spirits, and endeavouring to console her. On my observing to general Ross, that it was a great pity the elegant library had been burnt with the capitol, he replied with much concern, lament most sincerely I was not apprized of the circumstance, for had I known it in time, the books would most certainly have been saved." " Neither do I suppose, general," said I, " you would have burnt the president's house, had Mrs. Madison remained at home?" No, sir," replied he, *' I make war neither against Letters nor Ladies; and I have heard so much in praise of Mrs. Madison, that I would rather protect, than burn a house which sheltered such an excellent lady." The saying, that " brave men are always generous^^'^ was signally illustrated in the pleasure that general lloss manifested in praising commodore Barney for his be- haviour in the battle at Bladensburg. " A brave officer, sir," said he. " He had only a handful of men with him, and yet he gave us a very severe shock. I am sorry he was wounded; however^ I immedia tely gave him a parole y and I liope he will do well. Had half your army," con- tinned he, " been composed of such men as the com- modore commanded, with the advantage you had in choosing your position, we should never have got to your city." What evidenced more the magnanimity of this offi- cer, he never uttered an expression in my presence against the president or any of the officers of govern- Capture of Washington, 675 nient; but often expressed the deepest regret that war had taken place between two nations so nearly allied both in consanguinity and interest. I can moreover truly say, I never saw the sunbeam of one cheerful smile on .general Ross all the time that he was in Washington. His countenance seemed constantly shrouded in the close shades of a thoughtful mind. The favourable opinion which the reader has formed of general Ross, will not be lessened by the following facts. The morning after the conflagration, a silly man from Ohio, mounted on an elegant horse, came to the British camp. What was his object is to this day a secret. But at any rate, to guard against the worst, the British officers took him up, and would no doubt have been glad to have gotten his horse. For my own part, I was of opinion at first that he was a traitor, and therefore took particular notice of him. Presently an affair happened which served to persuade me that my opinion had been erroneous. Considering it doubtful whether the officers would let him go, he came to the desperate resolution to mount his horse and make his escape, placing his safety on the speed of the animal. He had scarcely started before major Hamilton, an aid of general Ross, with two or three Serjeants, mounted their best horses, and went in full pursuit. The hue and cry after him spread like lightning, and few races ever attracted more spectators, or made more noise in so short a time. They had not, however, run more than a mile towards the eastern branch, before the horse of the Ohio man fell, and by some means or other broke the legs of the rider. The regret which general Ross expressed at the fate of the poor man, indicated a most feelmg heart; and he assured me that it was not his intention to have de- tained the man or his horse longer than the evening. He then ordered the animal to be put into my stable^ with a request that I would have him restored to the owner. The British soldier who was ordered to take the horse to my stable, muttered exceedingly that so elegant 676 Capture of PFbshingfon, a horse should be given up, and as soon as the gene- ral had set out with the army the same fellow came back with a He in his mouth, saying, he was ordered by the general to take the horse away. I was at a loss how to act; however, not finding myself out ©f danger, I delivered him up. But, behold! the next morning Daniel Carrol, Esq. of Dudington, rode to my house, and congratulated me that my horse was safe, I told him yes, through the goodness of the command- ing officer, my horse was given up to me immediately on making application, and that he then was in my stable. " Why,'* said he with some surprise, *' I was in- structed by Mr. Sevvall to inform you, than general Ross had left your horse in the care of captain Gantt." This amiable officer, it seems, seeing the horse next morning in camp, and knowing the history of him, could not rest until he had placed him in the hands of captain Gantt, on the road, with a request that he would deliver him to me, for that I knew how he was to be disposed of. AH generous Americans, will doubtless pronounce major-general Ross a magnaninjious enemy. Surely the instances already cited, prove his claim to that high character; and surely he dererves it, who, when told that our barracks, which according to the usages of war he had condemned, could not be burnt without in- juring private property^ immediately countermanded his own order, and thus saved to us that noble range of buildings. As nothing is more pleasing than to meet with in- stances of generosity in an enemy, I cannot forbear re- cording some traits of the magnanimous sort in the character of admiral Cockburn. At this I know some of my readers will startle. What! magnanimous traits in admiral Cockburn! Impossible! To such I beg leave only to say, I am about to state facts, which came under my own notice, and as they are honourable to that hu- man nature of which we all partake, I trust they w^ill afford pleasure to every reader who has a soul to enjoy a virtuous action, though in an enemy. Capture of Washingtojt. 677 The terror struck into the good people of our city, by the capture and conflagration as aforesaid, rolled on in such conglomerating floods to Alexandria, that by the time it reached that place, it had acquired a swell of mountainous horrors, that appear to have entirely prostrated the spirits of the Alexandrians. Men, wo- men and children in that defenceless place saw no- thing, in their frightened fancies, but the sudden and total destruction of their rising city, by the British ar- my then at Washington, and the British squadron, under captain Gordon, coming up the river. In this alarming situation, they very wisely deter- mined to throw themselves on the generosity of the enemy, and supplicate security for their town, on the humble conditions of capitulation. As men in time of their troubles seem naturally to look for a blessing through the ministration of the godly, the Alexandrians selected four of their citizens distinguished for piety and morals^ as Drs. Muir and Dick, and Messrs. Jona- than Swift and Wm. Swann, They arrived during the dreadful tornado which we experienced on that me- morable day; and as I happened to be sitting in my dining-room with admiral Cockburn, when these dele- gates presented themselves, I had a fair opportunity to hear every word that passed on this occasion. Soon as they communicated to the admiral the object of their mission, he replied, with the brevity that characterized him, " Gentlemen^ I have nothing to say^ until you first tell me whether captain Gordon is in sight of Alexandria or not,^^ The reply was, that captain Gordon was not in sight of Alexandria. " JVell then, gentlemen,'^'* continued he, I am ready to negotiate with you. And now , all I have to say is, that we want provisions, and must have them. But let me tell youj that for every article we take, you shall be allowed a fair priced Upon this they very soon retired. Scarcely had those gentlemen left admiral Cockburn, before one of his officers entered the room, and told 678 Capture of Washington. him, that the bank could not be burnt without injuring private property. Well then," said he, sternly, pull it down." Though I felt somewhat of awe in the presence of this son of Neptune, yet I could not here refrain from interposing for the safety of the bank. " Admiral Cockburn," said I, " you do not wish to injure private property.'' "No," said he, **I do not. But this is public property." No, sir," 1 continued, **the United States have no bank here now — this is altogether private property." Are you certain of that," said he. " Yes, sir," I replied, " I pledge my honour, it is private property." " Well then," said he, to the officer, let it alone." . There was another case in which I had the satisfac- tion to save the property of a valuable citizen. As I was standing on the pavement near my door, which as I said, the general and admiral had used as head- quar- ters, a British officer observed, in my presence, " ffell, we shall be done with burning when the rope- walks are burnt and that handsome building yonder," pointing at the house of my pious and worthy neighbour, Elias B. Caldwell, Esq. Why certainly you are not going to burn that house, captain," said I. ** Yes, sir," replied he, " we shall." ** It is not public property," I said. **No mat- ter for that, there is public property at the house," al- luding to some cartridges and cartridge-boxes, which had been left there; ** and, besides," continued he, " it belongs to a man who has been very active against us." It is true," replied I, " Mr. Caldwell is captain of a volunteer company, and a brave man. But brave men do not bear malice against each other for doing their duty; on the contrary, respect them the more for it, as general Ross, yesterday, did commodore Barney. And therefore, I hope, that as this house is private property, it will not be destroyed." He paused for a moment — then went to general Ross, who, I suppose, put a stop to it, for the house was not burnt. I did also what I could to save the rope- walks of the Capture of Washmgton, 679 Rev. Mr. Chalmers, Mr. Ringgokl, and Mr. Heath, but it was in vain; for they observed that they were determined to spare nothing that made in favour of our navy, I will relate another anecdote of the admiral, and let the reader judge for himself. On the 25th, in the afternoon, just as the general and admiral who were standing on the pavement at my door, were notified by their servant that dinner was ready, a dirty looking woman, stained with blood, came running up, and screaming out as she came, O, i avi killed^ I am killed; a British sailor has killed me." Instantly admiral Cockburn, with every mark of in- dignation in his countenance, gave orders for the sailors to be mustered on parade, and that the man whom she designated as the perpetrator of the act, should be shot at the Capitol without one moment's delay. The general and admiral, with their suites, then went up to dinner, leaving Dr. Doddy and myself to examine the wounds of the woman, whom we had conveyed to the hospital. On finding this poor wTetch, in her drunk- en delirium, sometimes cursing a British sailor, and sometimes an American soldier, as her murderer ^ and was in no condition to designate who had inflicted the wounds, which, after all the noise, were quite fleshy and slight, I requested Dr. Doddy to communicate her situation to the admiral, to prevent an innocent person from suffering death on her account. Presently the doc- tor returned with the compliments of general Ross and admiral Cockburn, who wished to see me. I went up and found they had dined, but the table covered with wine. General Ross politely bowing and waving his hand to a chair that stood by him, invited me to sit down and take a glass of wine with them. Admiral Cockburn, then addressing me, said, " we were determined, sir, to have the British sailor shot, who stabbed that poor woman; but it gives us pleasure to learn, that it is your opinion her wounds are not mortal. As she has however been w^ounded, and m.ore than probable by one of our men, we think it but just 680 Capture of Washington. she should be cured at our expense. That part of the business we shall be obliged to confide to you, and for your trouble we beg you'to accept of this trifle.'* Then he reached out to me a parcel of gold, six doubloons. After thanking him for such generosity, I told him he must excuse me from taking so large a fee; ** the wounds," said I, *' admiral Cockburn, are altogether Jiesh wounds^ of which she will soon recover; and my attentions to her, even though I was influenced solely by pecuniary consideratrons, cannot deserve so large a reward,^'* At that word, his face reddened, and he exclaimed, " large, my good sir, we are only mortified to think it is so small; but it is, I assure you, all the specie we have with us. If you will accept a bill on our govern- ment, we will make it better worth your services." I told him I could not accept a bill, for that the fee he now tendered was much too ample. He however pres- sed it on me with an earnestness which I could no lon- ger resist. Nothing to be sure was ever more providential, than the receipt of this money. I do not mean for the wounded woman, for she, a common strumpet, being slightly hurt, soon got well without much aid of the admiral's doubloons; but I allude to worthier subjects. I allude to the sick and wounded of the American and British soldiers, who, but for this supply, must some of them at least have inevitably perished. For, to be candid, all my funds were exhausted previous to the conflagration, in affording refreshments to my friends and wearied countrymen, who needed such hospitalities, and who had iiobly volunteered their services in de- fence of the metropolis. There was for example, John Stockton, of the rifle corps from Baltimore, commanded by the gallant major Pinkney, who lay very desperately wounded two days on the field of battle. By mere accident hearing of his situation, I pressed a cider cart from the country, and had him brought in — extracted the ball — dressed his wounds, which were assuming a gangrenous state, and Capture of Washing t07i. 681 plentifully supplied him for several weeks with the best nourishment from my table. Thus was this worthy soldier snatched from the yawning grave. There were also forty- seven of the British soldiers who were most miserably mangled by the terrible ex- plosion at Greenleaf's Point, the greater part of whom would certainly have perished, as the government made no provision for them until after the third day, had it not been for the admiral's gold, which by immediate transmutation into sugar, coffee, tea, milk, rice, arrow- root, bread, meats, vegetables, and fruits, were early applied to sustain their exhausted frames. It may gratify the generous reader, on more accounts than one, to hear the tragical history of that affair. About two o'clock, on the 25th, a British captain with a com- pany of soldiers, marching down on Greenleaf's Point, to destroy the powder magazine. On reaching the spot, they found the magazine empty, the powder the day before having been taken out and thrown into a dry well. The British being strangers to this fact, threw a lighted match into the well. A most tremendous explosion ensued, whereby the officers and about thirty of the men were killed, and the rest most shockingly mangled. Some of these unfortunate victims of gunpowder were seen flying in the air to great distances, and others were totally buried alive under tons of earth thrown upon them. The survivors were carefully brought up on the capitol hill, and in the most distressed situation were lodged in Carroll's buildings adjoining my house. I never saw more endearing marks of sympathy than were here exhibited on the countenance of general Ross. He observed, looking at me with an eye of searching anxiety, "l am much distressed at leaving these poor fellows behind me. I do not know who is to mitigate their sufferings." I understood his meaning, and instantly assured him that he need not make himself uneasy on account of his wounded soldiers. '* The Americans, general Ross," said I, are of the same origin with yourself. We have, I trust, given you many splendid instances of our hu- 4 R 682 Capture of TFashi7igton, manity in the course of this unfortunate war. And you may rely on it, sir, no attentions in my power shall be withheld from them." He gave me a look of gratitude, which I shall never forget, and then turning towards his men where they lay, burnt, bruised and mangled, on the floor, he silently gazed at their deplorable state, with that Godlike sensibility, near melting into tears, which strongly brought to my recollection these beau- tiful lines of Darwin: No radiant pearl, which crested fortune wears. No gem, that twinkling hangs from beauties ears. Not the bright stars, which night's blue arch adorn, Nor rising sun, that gilds the vernal morn, Shine with such lustre as the tear that breaks For other's woe, down virtue's manly cheeks. After a few moments spent in silent sympathy, he observed, I presume mattresses and suitable refresh- ments can be obtained for them in Georgetown. Fiom this, I was induced to believe, he intended to march in that direction for the purpose of destroying Mr. Foxall's foundcry. But in this I was agreeably mistaken. For as soon as night approached, and large fires were kindled along their lines, the enemy decamped,, and re- turned to their shipping by the same route in which they came. As general Ross was about to mount his horse, he took leave of me in a respectful manner; repeated his regret for the robbery committed on my property by his men, and assured me, that for those injuries, as also for the services I had promised his sick and wounded men he left behind him, I should be rewarded. Very early the next morning, I set myself to the per- formance of wliat I owed to the sick. AH the refresh- ments that the utmost cleanliness of both bed and board could yield; all the vigour and spirits that nourishing diet could impart, and all the relief that suitable medi- cines could afford, were plentifully supplied to those unfortunate suiFerers. And with the assistance of Dr. Wm. Baker, of Georgetown, who generously volun- Capture of JVashhigton. 683 teered his services, the fractured limbs and wounds were set and dressed to their exceeding comfort by the evening. After a few days, Dr. Baker and myself were noti- fied by Dr. Worthington, that he w^as appointed by the government to take charge of the British prison- ers. I expressed much surprise that an arrangement of this sort had been made with so little regard to my feelings, since I had been all along attending those unfortunate sufferers, and had, through a kind Providence, rendered them those services, without which, it is well known, that many of them must in- evitably have perished. I also observed, that after my solemn promise made to general Ross, I should never forgive myself if I abandoned his men. Dr. Worthington replied, that the affair might be easily accommodated, for as he was appointed to super- intend the hospital at Bladensburg, as well as this in Washington, making together a sum of duties more than he could discharge, he would be glad of my assistance. In this way, the British sick still continued the ob- jects of my medical attention. And I am most happy to add, so signal were the smiles of Providence, on my exertions in their behalf, that, although the bilious fever and dysentery raged in the hospital and encampments, with a violence that swept off nunibers of my own coun- trymen, yet not one of the British simk under their afflic- tion, except Dr. Monteith. This extraordinary success is to be ascribed, I shall ever think, as much to moral ?iS to medical cause. Clean- liness, fresh air, and pleasant restorative diet, contri- buted much, no doubt, to that desirable event; but not more, I firmly believe, than did the continued efforts that were made to keep up the spirits of my patients, and to render their minds habitually cheerful. Appre- hensive that the recollection of being our prisoners, might give that morbid irritability to their minds, which by destroying the spirits, would retard the cure, I stu- diously avoided every thing of that malignant tendency, and as diligently redoubled my efforts to gratify^ as 684 Capture of Washington. far as I was able, their wishes, and to anticipate their wants. Had general Ross but lived, I am confident I should have been liberally renumerated for the articles which were taken from my house, as well as for my medical attentions to his men, and for the supplies over and above the allowance made by my own government. But should I never receive a cent from the British go- vernment, I am not left without reward. The recol- lection of having done unto these afflicted foreigners, as I would they had done unto me, is a source of the live- liest satisfaction to me as a man; besides what I enjoy as an American^ on comparing my conduct with that of captain Shortland of Dartmoor prison, general Proctor of the army in Upper Canada, as also colonel Elliot, who, after having pledged himself to protect his wound-, ed prisoner, captain Hart, an old and intimate acquain- tance of his, and brother-in-law of those distinguished characters, the honourable H. Clay, and James Brown, suffered him to be inhumanly butchered by the Indian tomahawk. But sorry am I to add, that for my kindness to the British prisoners, I got no thanks from some of my neigh- bours. On the contrary, a few of them at least, were so enraged against me, that they branded me as a trai- tor and a friend to the British! And indeed, I have no doubt, had these unthinking people but pos- sessed a power equal to their passions, they would have acted in this fair city of Washington, the same horrid tragedies as did the blind mob in Paris, under Robes- pierre and Marat, and have made me the bloody victim of their diabolical rage and fury. But I am truly happy to state, that these men were not Americans. No, they were emigrants; and which is astonishing, they were the very countrymen of those wounded prisoners, to whom I afforded that aid which man ever owes to the unfortu- nate. The truth is, these men finding, on their return from flight before the British army, their houses had been plundered of a fe-vo articles^ fell into such a rage, that Capture of JFasJiington. 685 they were instantly for blowing up the British prison- ers, and hanging me for having treated them with the tenderness which their condition as sick and wounded prisoners required. Thank God, these inconsiderate men were among a people who would give them no countenance in such diabolical acts. They were surrounded by charitable Americans, who, with the most tenacious regard to their own rights, cherished an equal regard to the rights of others, and therefore hold in proper detesta- tion, those infernal mobs that would swallow up the rights of all, and convert society into the greatest of curses. I have much pleasure, in contemplating the contrast exhibited in the spirit and conduct of that estimable and faithful disciple of Christ, the Reverend Mr. Brack- enridge, who, although a great sufferer by the British in Washington, was among the first to afford comforts and consolations to the wounded and otherwise afflicted prisoners ! He prayed among enemies! Yes, I rejoice to state, that my virtuous countrymen were not implicated with those unthinking men; so far from menacing me for an act of mercy, which man eter- nally owes to man, they most heartily applauded me for it. And if I could possibly require any greater pleasure than that which I feel, when I think of what I did for those poor sick strangers, I should find it in the commendations bestowed on me, not only by my worthy countrymen who are denominated federalists; but also by the republican:., and those especially, whose esteem I most highly prized, as Charles Carroll, Esq. of Bellevue, John Graham, Esq. general Van Ness, colonel Brent, Dr. Thornton, the Rev. Mr. Chalmers, Mr. M'Kenny, the honourable G. W. Campbell, Gaillard, Cheves, Lowndes, Troup, Cuthbert, Eppes, Jackson, Gholson, Hawes, Condict, M'Kim, Ringgold^ Desha, Chappell, &,c. &c. When these worthy patriots understood that I had visited those afflicted captives, and rendered them aid before the hand of government had been extended to 686 Capture of Washington. their relief, they expressed their high approbation of my conduct, and several of them came to my house and thanked me for an act so honourable to the character of the American people, and above all so pleasing to God, and therefore so sure to draw after it his blessing. And I am happy to add, that his blessing in one goodly shape at least, was soon visited upon us for this kindness to the British prisoners, and through the medium of their gratitude. Finding that instead of having been treated as they expected, with great harshness for burning our capitol, they had been treated with the utmost tenderness and hospitality, they were struck with admiration of our goodness to them. Not only their language but their looks afforded us daily the most pleasing assurances of their gratitude. And as soon as their health would allow, they appeared as if never so happy as when they were domg something to requite us as far as they were able. To their great credit I can say, with truth, that in some laudable degree this amiable spirit appeared to belong to most of them. But in some it was more especially and gloriously predominant. There for ex- ample were sergeant Hutchinson of the royal sappers and miners, and Alexander Gunn of the Scotch fusi- liers. Those two young men, though low in rank, should stand forever high on the list of that virtuous fame which belongs to sensible and grateful dispositions. They acted as though they could never give proof enough of their love for the Americans. And it is a sacred truth, that when the American soldiers shrunk, as was sometimes the case, from their sick and dying comrades, through fear of the infection, these English soldiers volunteered their services !~^2iX. up with the sick — washed the bodies of the dead — and performed all the last sad offices of hu- manity, with as much tenderness as though the deceas- ed had been their own relations and friends. And it is but justice to these Englishmen to declare, that to their favourable reports of our kindness to them on this oc- casion, were to be ascribed many noble instances of Capture of Washmgton. 687 British politeness to our worthy citizens who feil into their hands. That very amiable gentlemen and distinguished phy- sician, Dr. Beans, of Marlborough, was made prisoner by the British as they were retreating to their vessels. The benevolent F. Key, Esq. of Georgetown, learning this, immediately obtained letters from sergeant Hutch- inson and others of the prisoners, and went with a flag on board the British squadron for his release. Soon as general Ross had perused the letter of sergeant Hutchinson, detailing the generous treatment which he and his comrades had received, he issued orders for the immediate liberation of Dr. Beans, although it had been previously determined that he should be sent to Bermuda. Thus by common acts of Christian charity to these poor captives, a most valuable life was saved to his family and country. Who does not in this behold another additional proof that the maddest policy on earth is revenge, and that the wisest philosophy under heaven, is that which teaches us " to love our enemies, and do good for evil.'^ And besides its exceeding pleasure and advantage, w^here is the charm, out of heaven, that so fascinates all hearts as that of God-like generosity to an enemy that is in our power? Take the following which was communicated to me by commodore Barney himself. As this gallant officer lay on the battle-ground badly wounded and helpless, and his men by his own order all retreated from him, he beckoned to an English sol- dier to come to his assistance. The soldier instantly stepped up and rendered the required service with as amiable an alacrity as to his own general. " You are a noble fellow," said the commodore, " and I am sorry I have not a purse for you. But here's my gold watch; you are welcome to it." **No, sir," replied the Englishman, can assist a brave man without being paid for it." As I have some how or other got into a string of anecdotes about the British exploits in Washington, I 688 Cap ture of Washington. beg leave to mention one or two more. As admiral Cock burn was looking at his men while they were throwing into the streets the types of the National In- telligencer, an American gentleman observed to him, '*if general Washington had been alive, you would not have gotten into this city so easily." "No, sir," replied the admiral. if general Washington had been president, we should never have thought of coming here." When this was told me, I added, " No, sir, nor if even the chairman of the military commitee had been secretary of war^ would they have dared it." The chair- man 1 allude to, was the patriotic G. M. Troup, of Georgia, who was always for carrying on the war with the greatest energy, and who would, at least, have had a sufficient force, with an experienced commander, to defend the metropolis of the United States against an invading army of four thousand men! As I have mentioned the name of Troup, I cannot forbear relating the following anecdote of this virtu- ous patriot. Besides the honour it does him, it is calculated to exalt the charm of that stern Spartan virtue, which alone can give immortality to our repub- lic. The colonel's younger brother, Dr. James Troup, studied physic with me in Savannah: and while his uncommon talents excited my admiration, his gentle and affectionate spirit conciliated my esteem in the highest degree. At my request, the honourable Paul Ha- milton, formerly secretary of the navy, appointed him hospital surgeon for the state of Georgia during the war. Col. Troup, on learning from me that I had obtained this commission for his brother, replied with a look of strong disapprobation, " No, doctor, it will not do; I thank you for your good wishes to my brother; but, sir, he must not except the commission you have been so good as to procure for him. I know," continued he, "it is an appointment both of honour and profit^ Capture of Washington. 689 but still I can never consent to his taking it. It may be be thought that I procured it for him. And I cannot bear the idea of using any influence that I may ever gain under government to raise my relations into office." After this long, though I hope not uninteresting di- gression, we will return to the bilious fever. I have stated that Dr. Monteith was the only victim of this disease among the British prisoners in the hos- pital here. Would to God there had perished but one in the American hospitals and encampments. But, alas! my heart bleeds when I think how many thousands perished during this war. I do not mean the common hireling soldiery, who, destitute of all vir- tuous habits, are perhaps the fit victims of war. No; but I speak of the thousands of our virtuous yeomanry, who, diseased or wounded in their country's service, have been cruelly sacrificed at the shrine of public ne- gleet. Think now of the following, which is but a common case. A regiment of brave patriots, notwithstanding the tears of wives, mothers and sisters, set out full of spirits, and eager to meet the enemy of their country. Many of them who had never, perhaps, walked ten miles in a day, are hurried on by an imprudent officer twenty or thirty miles, possibly, on the first day, with a heavy musket and knapsack on their shoulders! In the evening borne down with unusual fatigue, and their linen stiff with acrid perspiration, they halt for the night. Both in mind and body they require some- thing to exhil^arate and to strengthen. But, behold! in lieu of those refreshments which they had been ac- customed to at home, only a little raw meat is afforded for their bill of fare, and the cold earth, frequently without a tent, for their bed. What wonder that one fourth or fifth of this regiment should the very next morning be laid up! merely for lack of those provisions which certainly it was the duty of some officer or other under the government to have supplied. I have it from a gentleman who was on the spot, that of a fine regiment of Virginia volunteers encamping pre- 4 S 690 Capture of JVashington, cisely under these circumstances, near Snowden's iron works, upwards of two hundred were the next day on the sick list, several of whom died. And there, for another example, were the five thou- sand, who, according to the proverb of locking the stable door after the steed is stolen," were rapidly marched to Washington — after the city was taken — after the capitoi, ihe president's house, war and trea- sury offices were all burnt — after the navy yard and frigates were all demolished — and after the bridges were all blow^n up — I say, of those five thousand men, what awful numbers perished miserably, merely for lack of proper nourishment, medical attentions, and suitable accommodations. True it is, by order of the then acting secretary of war a hospital was established here for the accommoda- tion of the sick militia. But let not the reader lie under a mistake about this hospital. The word hospital sig- nifies not only a receptacle for the sick, but a place for every thing clean and sweet, and every thing nourish- hig and healing, with skilful physicians and attentive nurses. But, alas! this hospital had no such meaning — the' truth of which many members of congress and citi- zens can attest. The hospital was contiguous to the apartments oc- cupied by the British sick whom I attended, and being frequently entreated by my countrymen who were not under my care to prescribe for them, I had a fair op- portunity to witness their wretched situation. And I \vill declare before my God, I have seen twenty or thirty sick militia-men brought in of a day to this hospital, where, instead of the pleasant and cordial refreshments which their languid situation required, their rations of raw beef were thrown on a table, there lying for hours together for the poor sick soldiers to divide and dress for themselves as they could! And what was still more deplorable in this militia- murdering hospital, a young man of eighteen years of age, who had been studying medicine only a few months, and hardly knew how to put u.p the simplest prescription, much less to prescribe in Capture of JFas/wigton. 691 the absence of the surgeqn, was appointed surgeon's mate! With such mismanagement, what wonder that so many of our valuable citizens sunk under their com- plaints? And where is the wonder that the y should have exclaimed, with tears in their eyes — Had we but died in the field of battle, fightini^ for liberty and our country, we should have gloried in such a death; but to be brought here to die like sheep, it is insupportable!" f f GLOSSARY, OR EXPLANATION OF TECHNICAL TERMS. ^Ibdomen^ the belly. Abortion, miscarriage. .Abscess J a tumor containing mat- ter. Jbsorbents, medicines to correct acidity, and absorb or dry up superfluous moisture. Abstemious, low living. jicceleratCy to quicken. .4cescenty having a tendency to acidity. Acidulated^ impregnated with acids. Acme, full height. Acrid, sharp and corrosive. Acute, this term is applied to a disease which is violent, and tends to a speedy termination. Adult, of full age, beyond pu- berty. Affinity, likeness, resemblance. Affusion, pouring one thing on another. After-birth, or placenta cake, is the substance by which the child is connected with the mother in the womb. After-pains, see grinding pains. Ague-cake, enlargement of the spleen. Alcohol, rectified spirits of wine. Aliment, nourishment. Alimentary canal^ or tube, the stomach and intestines. Alkali, any substance whicl), min- gled with acid, produces fer- mentation. Alternate, branches or leaves, or flowers, springing out regu- larly one above another. Alternate, changed by turns. Analogous, one like another. Annual, living only one year. Anodyne, composing medicines, and such as mitigate pains. Antidote, a medicine to destroy poisons. Antifogmatics, drams. Antipathy, an aversion to par- ticular things. Antiphlogistic, counteracting in- flammation. Antiscorbutic, good against the scurvy. Antiseptics, medicines to correct putridity or rottenness. Antisfiasmodic , whatever tends to prevent or remove spasm. Antispasmodics, medicines for curing spasms, as laudanum and aether. Anus, the fundament. Aperient, opening. Aphthous, resembling the thrush. Areola, the circle which sur- rounds the nipple on the breast. Aromatic, spicy, pungent. Artery, a conic canal, conveying the blood from the heart to all parts of the body. Astringents, medicines to cor- rect looseness and debility. 694 Glossary^ or Atmosfihere^ surroundin,^.^ir. Attenuants^ medicines for redu- cing the body. B JBiennialy continuing alive two years. Bile^ or gall, a fluid secreted by the liver into the gall-bladder, and thence discharged into tlic intestines, for the purpose of promoting digestion. Bougie^ a taper body, introduced into a passage or sinus, to keep it open, or to enlarge it. Bolus, a form of medicine in a mass, larger than pills. Bulbous, root as garlic and onion; it is either Solid as in the tulip and turnip, Scaiy as in the lily, Coated as in the onion. G Calculous, stony or gravelly. CalLus, hard or firm. Cant har ides, the Spanish flies, used in blisters. Cafiillary, fine, hair-like. Caiisule, a dry hollow vessel con- taining the seed or fruit. Carious, rotten, applied princi- pally to the bones and teeth. Carminatives, medicines for dis- pelling wind. Catafilasm, a poultice or soft plaster. Catarrh, a discharge from the head or throat. Cathartic, a purge. Catheter, a pipe to draw off urine. Qatkin, a composition of flowers and chuff on a long, slender, thread-shaped receptacle; the figure of the whole resem- bling a cat's tail. Caustics, burning applications. Cautery, the act of burning with a hot iron or caustic. Cutaneous, of or belonging to the skin. Characteristic, a mark, sign, to- ken. Charcoal, a coal made by burn- ing wood under turf. Chronic, lingering disease, in op- position to acute. Chyle, a milky fluid, separated from the aliment in the intes- tines, mixing Avith, and form- ing the blood. Circulation, the motion of the blood, which is propelled by the heart through the arteries, and returned by the veins. Cla?n?ny sweats, cold, glutinous. Cleanings, see lochial discharge. Coagulum, a curd. Comatose, inclined to sleep. Comfiress, several folds of linen rags, a bandage. Concave, hollowed out like a bowl, as the petals of the cher- ry or the hawthorn; and the broad-leaved plantain. Cone, or strobile, a species of seed-vessel formed by a cat- kin with hardened scales; con- taining a seed within the base of each scale; as in the pine or fir. Conjiuent, running together. Constipation, obstruction, cos- tiveness. Contagion, infectious matter. Contusion, a bruise. Convalescence, recovery from sickness. Convex, opposed to concave: rising like the surface of a globe. Convulsions^ violent motions, fits. Corolla, blossoms, petals, or flower-leaves, is that beautiful part of a flower which first Explanation of Technical Terms. 695 draws the attention as the flower itself. Corroborants^ tonics or strength- ening medicines. Corrosiveefulous, of, or belonging to the king*s-evil. Secondary, not primary; a se- condary fever is that which oc- curs after a crisis. Secretion, the separation of fluids from the body. Secundines, the placenta, and membranes. Sedatives, composing medicines. Segments, the small part of a leaf cup or petal, included between the incision. Semen, the seed. Serous, thin, watery. Serrated, notched like a saw. Siyiapism, a poultice made of flour, mustard and vinegar. Slough, the parts that separate from a sore. Solitary f only one in a place; as but one flower on a fruit stalk; or only one fruit stalk, pro- ceeding from the same part of a plant. Soluble, loose, laxative. Sfiasm, cramp, convulsion. Specific, an infallible remedy. Spear-shaped, applied to a leaf, signifies that it is shaped like a spear or lance. Spherical, globular. Spike, a head or ear, as in rye, barley, wheat, &c. Explanation of Technical Terms, 699 S/iincj the back bone. Stamina^f the constitution or ha- bit of body. Stimulants, irritative medicines. Stomachics, medicines for the sto- mach. Strangury, a difficulty of ma- king water. Striated, channelled, furrowed. Stufior, a suspension of sensibi- lity. Sty/iiic, a medicine stopping the dischar^^e of blood. Sudorijics, medicines to promote sweating. Su/i/iository, a candle, or any other substance or composi- tion, introduced into the rec- tum to procure stool. Swooning, fainting. Symptomatic, a disease not pri- mary, but arising from another in contradiction to idiopathic. Syncofie^ a fainting or swooning. Technical, belonging to arts. Temfier anient, a peculiar habit of body. Temperature, state of the air. Tertian, returning every third day. Tetany, the lock jaw. Tonic, bracing, strengthening. Topical, local, confined to the diseased part. Tumour f a swelling. Turgescence, an over fulness. Type, a mark. Typhus, a genus of fever com- prehending those called ner- vous, yellow and putrid. U Ulcer, a sore, generally ill-con- ditioned. Umbel, a composition of flowers, in which a number of slender fruit stalks proceed from the same centre, and rise nearly to the same height, so as to form a regular surface at the top. Hemlock, carrot, and low parsnip are examples. — These are said to be umbel- liferous plants. U?ndilical cord, the navel string. Urethra, the canal which con- veys the urine. Uterine, belonging to the womb. Uterusy the womb. Uvula, the palate. Vaccine, vaccinous, belonging to or matter of the cow-pox. Vagina, the passage to the womb. Valetudinarian, a weak, sickly person. Variolus, small-pox matter. Vascular, belonging to the ves- sels. Vehicle, a liquor to take medi- cines in. Venous, belonging to the veins. Ventilation, a free admission or motion of air. Venomous, ') Vermifuge, worm-dispelling me- dicines. Vertigo, giddiness. Vesicating, blistering. Villous, shaggy, rough, hairy. Virus, poisonous matter. Viscera, the entrails. Viscid, glutinous, tenacious. Vitaly the seat of life. W Whites, the discharge from the womb. Whorls, this term is applied ei- ther to branches, leaves, or flowers, when they grow all round their respective stems, resembling in some measure the spokes round the nave of a wheel. INDEX. A page. Abdomen, or belly, descrip- tion of - - 54 Abortion, observations on 453 Abscess, see Tumours 416 Absorbent mixture, doses 634 how prepared - 641 Absorbent and aperient mix- lure, doses of 634 — — how prepared 64! Acid, nitric, diluted 643 ■ vegetable, a remedy in scurvy - 393 Acidities, see heartburn 369 Ackland, lady Harriet, her great affection for her husband - 131 Admonitory hints to ladies 445 Adolphus, Gustavus, his ex- emplary piety 268 Advice to masters 26 to parents 182, 471 After pains - 462 Agrimonia, properties of 495 Ague and fever 274 Air, its influence on the blood 51 on the body 74 — the exact weight of 74 — necessity for its renewal 79 — confined, bad effects of 79 — warm, relaxes the body 88 — damp or moist, checks perspiration - 89 — the most wholesome 89 — impure, how restored 298 Alcibiades, his pride check- ed by Socrates 232 Alder, black, properties of 495 page. Alexandria, delegates frorn 676 Alkali, caustic volatile, dos- es of - - - 632 Allen, colonel, died for his country - 252 Allen, captain, died for his country - - 252 Alum root, properties of 495 Americans, patriotism of 252 Anderson, Dr. recommends poison oak in paralysis 577 Angelica, properties of 496 Anger, dangerous effects of 183 melancholy instances of 189 advantages of repress- ing our rising passions ib wonderful effects of music in subduing it 193 Anodyne eye water, how prepared - - 312 Anodyne sudorific drops, doses of - - 634 — how prepared - 643 — draught, how prepared 644 Antidysenteric mixture, do- ses of - - 634 how prepared 641 Antimonial powders, doses of - - 634 how prepared - 639 Antiphon, promised to do upon souls what Hippo- crates did on bodies 168 Apoplectic fits - 352 Appetites, three kinds of 94 Apple, Peru - 496 Arbutus - - 497 Archer, Dr. celebrates se- neka in croup 587 Index, 702 Ardent spirits, properties of 104 fatal effects of 105 Argenes, his motive for kill- ing the priests - 265 Aristides, his goodness 2 1 1 Armistead, captain, died for his country 252 Arms, description of 3 1 fracture of 438 dislocation of 433 Arria, her invincible love for her husband 130' Arrow-root, properties of 497 Arsenic, solution, doses of 632 how prepared 646 Arteries, use of - 35 Asarabacca, properties of 497 Asclepiades, prescribes mu- sic for madness 193 Askew, cured of an impost- humation by laughter 160 Asthma, treatment of 368 Astringent washes 647 Athenians, the instruction they received from the oracle, in matters of re- ligion - 264 Atmosphere, definition of 74 — - component parts of 76 Attalus, terrified by his con- science - 178 Augusta, citizens of, noted for hospitality - 615 Avarice, injurious to health 212 fatal instances of 213 the desire of Hippocra- tes to find out an antidote 213 Avens, properties of 498 B Babbit, lieut. died for his"^ country - 252 Backach -brake 498 Backbone, its use 31 Backus, col. gallant con- duct at Sackett's ftai^ljour 662 Bacon, properties of 102 Baker, Dr. William, his be- nevolent conduct 682 Balm, properties of 498 Banks, Sir Joseph, his botan- ical excursion - 111 Barberry, a remedy in dys- entery and jaundice 499 Barbour, Mrs. testifies the efficacy of samson snake root as a tonic - 59 1 Bark, Peruvian, caution in the use of - 276 tincture of - 654 cold infusion of 649 decoction of 649 jacket of 638 Barney, commodore, his gallant conduct - 664 Barton, Dr. his noble efforts to serve his fellow-citizens 494 testifies the efficacy of oak bark in gangrene 567 of poke-weed in rheumatism - 578 of thorn apple in madness and epilepsy 600 — of tobacco to dislodge worms 606 Balsam capivi, doses of 632 Turlington's how pre- pared - - 656 Bastard ipecacuanha 499 Bath, cold, when proper 24 warm, efficacy of 25 Bayberry, properties of 499 Baylis, Dr. recommends la- vender thrift as an anti- septic - - 550 Beans, Dr. his release 686 Bearberry, 499 Beasley, major, died for his country - - 252 Beatrice, lady, her impiety and death - 166 Beaufort, Henry, his dread of death - - 174 Beauty, wonderful effects of 446 — r — how to preserve it 446 Index. 703 Beddoes, Dr. celebrates fox- glove in consumption 531 Bed-room, the most proper situation for - - 89 Beech drops - - 500 Beef, properties of - 102 Beer, receipts for - 543 — properties of - 104 Beggar, anecdote of one 1 10 Belknap, lieut. died for his country _ - - 252 Benne, yields an excellent salladoil - - 500 Betli-roQt, properties of - ib Bile, nature of, explained 60 Bilious fever, treatment of 280 prevention - 287 Bind-weed - - - 500 Bird, col. entitled to praise 494 celebrates the bastard ipecacuanha as an excel- lent emetic, &c. - 548 Bishop of Salisbury went mad from grief - 166 Bites of musquitoes - 406 — of venomous animals 407 of mad dogs - 408 Bitters, how prepared - 656 dangerous effects of 23 Bittersweet - - 500 Blackberry, or dewberry 501 Bladensburg, situation of 663 Blacksnake root - - 501 Bladder, anatomy of - 61 Blakely, lieut. died for his country - 252 Blaney, lieut. died for his country - - - ib Blazing star - - 501 Bleeding at the nose - 342 Blood, circulation of - 49 composed of two dis- tinct parts - - 53 Blood-letting, how per- formed . - - 440 Blood root, properties of 501 Blood wort, properties of 523 . Bloody flux - - 350 Boerhaave, Dr. verifies that religion is conducive to health - - - 269 Boils, see tumours - 416 Bolea, captain, his singular revenge - 205 Bonaventur, his admiration of a beautiful woman 142 Bones, anatomy of - 31 Boneset - 502 Bowman's root - - ib Boxwood - 503 Brackenridge, Rev. Dr. his christian conduct - 685 Bradford, captain, died for his country - - 252 Bread, most wholesome 102 Breast, swelling of, in in- fants - - - 475 Breath, bad, how to correct 329 Brent, col. Wm. friend of humanity - - 585 Brookes, lieut. died for his country - - - 252 Broome, lieut. died for his country - - - ib Broomrape, Virginia, pro- perties of - - 503 Brown, general, the hero of Sackett's Harbour, kc. 662 Brown, lieut. died for his country - 252 Bruises, treatment of - 430 Buboes - - - 391 Buckthorn, properties of 503 Buel, lieut. died for his country - 252 Burch, captain, cured of an abscess of the liver by onions - - - 568 Burdock, properties of 504 Burnet saxifrage - ib Burns, treatment of - 411 Burrows, captain, died for his country - - 252 Bush, lieut. died for his country - - - ib Butterfly weed - - 504 Butternut - - - ib Button snake root - ib 704 Index. c Caldwell, Dr. how he pre- served his son's health 89 his opinion re- specting; wormii - 484 Calico tree, properties of 506 Calimiis, pioperlies of ib Calomel, doses of - 632 Cambyscs, his envy to his brother - - - 2 11 Camomile, properties of 509 Camomile, wild, - ib Campbell, hon. George W. friend of humanity - 685 Camphorated powders, do- ses of - _ - 634 how prepared - 639 mixture - - 642 liniment, - - 657 spirits, - - - ib Cancer, treatment of - 417 Cancer root - - - 506 Candleberry myrtle - 507 Capture of Washington - 661 Caraway, properties of 507 Carrot, wild, properties of ib Carroll, Charles, esq. friend of humanity - - 685 Carroll, Mrs. cured of a bilious fever by porter 284 Cartilages, anatomy of 33 Casimir, his patience - 191 Castor oil, how made - 507 Catgut, properties of - 508 Cathartic mixture, how prepared _ - - 642 Cato, his hatred to the fe- male sex - - 198 Catullus, his torment after murdering 3000 Jews 178 Caustic alkali, or soap lees, 648 — lunar, doses of - 632 — — . volatile liquor, doses 632 Celandine, properties of 508 Cellular membrane, anato- my of - • -41 Cerate, Turner's, how pre- pared - - - 659 Centaury, properties of - 509 Chalk, prepared, doses of 632 Chalmers, Rev. Mr., friend of humanity - - 685 Mrs., her alarm at a large dose of calomel 489 Chapman Dr. his recipe for scald head - - 398 zealous in diffusing knowledge - - 494 his treatment of the epidemic - - 320 testifies the good effects of seneka in men- strual obstructions - 587 Chapell, hon. John J. friend of humanity - - 685 Chancres - - - 391 Chaptal's receipt for wine 616 Charleston, citizens of, no- ted for hospitality - 615 Charcoal powder, how pre- pared - - 640 Chastity, examples of, 145, 148 Cheerfulness, consistent with religion - - - 258 Cheese, difficult of diges- tion - - - 101 Cherry-tree, wild, an excel- lent substitute forthe Pe- ruvian bark - - 509 Cheselden, Dr. his obser- vations relative to the study of anatomy - 30 Cheves, hon. L. friend of humanity - - 685 Chicken-pox - - 340 Chickweed, red_ - 510 Chilblains - - 410 Child-bed, management of 464 Children, management of 477 Chincough - - - 491 Chocolate, properties of 106 Cholera infantum - 48 1 morbus - - 3f S Index^ Chordce - - - 3B5 Chremesj story of, an in- structive lesson to the in- temperate - - 95 Chyle, the manner it is con- veyed - - - 58 Cider, properties of - 104 Cinquefoil - - 510 Clagget, lieut. died for his country, - - 352 Clap, treatment of - 384 Cleanliness promotes health and preserves beauty 245 . the foster mother of love - - 247 essential both in sick- ness and health - 26 Cleavers - - 510 Clemm, lieut. died for his country - - 252 Clinias, calms his passions by music - - 192 Cline, Dr. his adyice on the dress of children 241 Coakum - - 510 Cockburn, commodore, anec- dotes of - - 676 Cock-up-hat, properties of 511 Coshus, his irritable dispo- sition - - 181 Coffee, properties of 106 Cohush, or papoose root, properties of - 511 Cold, treatment of - 301 prevention of - 303 Cold bath, when beneficial, and when injurious - 24 Cold-washing infants, im- portance of - 469 Colic, treatment of - 372 Colt's foot, properties of 511 Columbo, properties of 512 Comfrey - ib. Common ulcers - 419 Condict, hon. L. friend of humanity - - 685 Conscience, tliC force and effects of it - 174, 179 705 Consumption - • 344 Constantinus, his reverence for religion - - 266 Convulsions of children 485 Cooper, J. Esq. his receipt for a cheap wine - 620 Corday, Charlotte, history of her death - - 235 Coriander, properties of 513 Cornaro, recovers a bad con- stitution by temperance 97 Corns, treatment of - 415 Cosmetics, observations on 445 Costiveness, remarks on 371 Costiveness and wind, of in- fants - - 480 Cough, treatment of 302 Covington, general, died for his country - - 252 Cowell, lieut, died for his country - 252 Cowparsnip, pro'perties of 513 Cowpox - - 333 Crabs and lobsters, caution in the use of - - 102 Craik, Dr. his death, and that of his consort - 573 Cramp, treatment of - 364 Crane's bill, properties of 513 Crawford, hon. W. H. testi- fies the efficacy of onions in croup - - 565 his virtues deservedly appreciated - - 668 Dr. his successful mode of treating a hypo- chondriac - - 362 Cream of tartar, doses of 632 Croghan, major, the hero of fort Stevenson - 652 Cromwell, Oliver, his hy- pocrisy - - 254 Crosswort - - 515 Croup, treatment of - 488 Crowfoot, properties of 515 Cuckold - - 516 Cuckow-bread - - ib. Cuckow-pint, properties of ib. 4X; 706 Index, Cucumber root - - 516 CuUen, Dr. cured of a can- cer by nightshade 564 — celebrates horse-radish in hoarseness - 546 Cure-all - - - 517 Currants, properties of ib. Currie, Dr. recommends the affusion of cold water in nervous fever - 293 celebrates fox-glove in inflammation of the brain 532 Custard apple, properties of 5 17 Cutaneous eruptions - 394 Cutbush, Dr. bears testimo- ny to the efficacy of acids in scurvy - - 551 — — — of tobacco in dropsy - - 607 his successful practice 319 Cuthbert, hon. A. friend of humanity - 685 Cutler, Rev. Dr. deserving high commendations 494 — testifies the efficacy of emetic week and skunk cabbage in asthma 522, 594 D Dandelion, properties of 518 Darwin, Dr. gives an ac- count of a surgeon killing" himself from fear of po- verty - - - 173 cites a case in which pride was effectually cur- ed - - 233 his remedy to correct bad breath - 306 Daviess, col. his dying words 252 Davis, general, died for his country - 252 Deadly nightshade - 518 Deafness - - - 328 Death, over-much feared by some - - 173 occasioned by many persons placed in small apartments - 79, 83 Death caused by going into a dry well - - 84 by sleeping near a lime-kiln - - 85 by taking a large draught of brandy - ib. by gormandizing 95 • by exposure to cold weather - - 112 by laughter - 161 by joy - - 163 by grief - 166 by fear - - 172 by anger - - 186 by envy - - 209 by avarice - - 2 1 3 by blasphemy - 263 Dentition - - - 435 Deerberry - - - 518 Desha, hon. J. friend of hu- manity - - - 685 Devil's bit, a vermifuge 5 1 8 Dewberry - - - ib. Dexter, Dr. entitled to praise - 494 celebrates bloodroot as a diaphoretic - 50 1 Diaphragm, use of - 54 Dick, Dr. a delegate - 67f Dickenson, J. Esq. cele- brates the magnolia in rheumatism - - 554 Diet, observations on - 98 Difficulty of urine - 348 Digestion, nature of ex- plained - - 57, 98 Dill, a delightful aromatic 5 1 8 Dionysius, his miserable state of mind - - 174 Discharge from the vagina in infants - - 483 Diseases of children - 477 Dislocations - - 430 Dislocation of the jaw 432 — ; — of the shoulder - ib. of the elbow - 433 of the thigh, - 434 Dispensatory - - - 629 Dobby, surgeon of the Bri- tish navy - - 679 Index. 707 Dock, properties of 519 Dodd, Dr. his sentiments on religion - 258 Dogwood, equal to Peru- vian bark - 519 Donaldson, col. Lowry, his last words - - 252 Dorsey, Dr. his mode of ap- plying blisters in obsti- nate cases of sore eyes 313 Doses of medicines 63 1 Downie, Dr. esteems blood- root an active emetic 501 Dragon's claw - 520 Dragon root - 520 Dreams, remarkable cases of - - 118 Dress, custom of, in infants 240 love of - - 241 — neglect of, a bad sign 242 advantages of wearing flannel - 243 Dropsy - 378 Drowned persons how to be treated - 404 Drunkards reclaimed, in- stances of - - 224 Drunkenness, its horrid consequences - 105, 221 Drury, Dr. testifies the ef- ficacy of emetic weed in asthma - 523 Dublin lying in hospital, good effects of ventila- ting the rooms - 83 Duellists, their want of re- flection - - 187 how some have been mortified - - 188 Dysentery - 350 E Ear, description of 43 Earach - 327 Eginardus, anecdote of 129 Elder, properties of 520 Elecampane, properties of 52 1 Elegy on the death of Col. Jesse Ewell - 378 on an unfortunate girl 389 Elixir paregoric, doses of 632 how prepared 655 Elm, properties of 521 Emetic weed, properties of 522 Empirics, cause of their in- crease - - 19 cures on which their fame is built - 20 Envy, nature of - 208 its baneful effects 209 antidote against 2 1 1 Epidemic, treatment of 318 Epileptic fits - 354 Eppes, hon. J. W. friend of humanity - 685 Ergot, properties of 524 Eruptions of the skin 394 Erysipelas - 341 Evacuations, importance of 126 Evans, captain, died for his country - 252 Evergreen cassine 525 Excretory vessels, use of 36 Exercise promotes health 107 absolute necessity of 111 Explanation of weights and measures - 638 Eye, description of 42 inflammation of 312 F Fainting fits - 355 Falling of the fundament 414 of the palate - 311 Fallopian tubes, use of 62 Fanaticism, the cause of ex- plained - - 254 how to be treated 255 instance of its bane- ful effects - 200 Fashion, its excess disgustful 24 1 Fear, its origin - 172 turns the hair gray, and occasions death 172 708 Index, Fear, superstitious, foun- dation of - 182 Feather beds should be fre- quently aired 126 Featherfew, properties of 525 Febrifuge powders, doses 636 — how prepared 639 mixture 642 Federalists, humanity of 635 Feeding of children 471 Feeling, explained 45 Feet, description of 32 Fennel, sweet, properties of 525 Fern, properties of 525 Fever bush, properties of 526 Fever root, properties of 527 Fevers in gcTieral 271 Fibres, description of 36 Fig-tree, - - 527 Fish - - 101 Flag, blue, properties of 528 sweet - 528 Flannel, great preservation of health - 243,288 Flatulence in infants 480 Flaxseed, properties of 528 syrup, how prepared 528 Flea bane, properties of 529 Flies, potatoe, equal to the Spanish - - 581 how collected 582 Flooding - - 452 Flower-de-luce 529 Flowers, smell of, unhealthy 87 Fluor albus - 449 Flux root - 529 Food, the most proper for children - - 90 . the manner it is re- ceived into the stomach and digested - 54 « rules to be observed in taking it - 99 Fothergill, Dr. his fana- ticism soon cured 255 Fowler, Dr. celebrates to- bacco as a diuretic 605 Foxglove, properties oi 529 Fractures of the limbs - 434 of the ribs - 439 French apple - - 533 Frostwort, properties of ib Frozen limbs, treatment of 410 Fruit, properties of - 102 Fumitory, properties of - 533 Funk, lieutenant, died for his country - - 252 G Gaillard, hon. J. friend of humanity - - 684 Gaines, general, hero of fort Erie - - - 662 Galen, how he became con- verted - - - 29 Galling of infants - - 472 Gall bladder, its use - 60 Gamble, lieutenant, died for his country - - 252 Gamboge, doses of - 632 Gangrene - 428 Gant, Dr. celebrates elm in dysentery - - 522 Gargles, how prepared - 650 Garlic, properties of - 534 Gaston, the soldier and christian - - - 189 Gentian, qualities of - 534 Gholson, hon. T. friend of humanity - - 685 Mrs. festifies the tonic elfecis of Sampson snake root - - - 591 y^nger, doses of - 632 [Ginseng - - - 535 Gibson, colonel, died for his country - - 252 Glands, use of - - 36 Gleet - - - - 386 Glossary - - - 693 Glysters - - - 652 Gaol fever - - 290 Goats' rue, Virginia - 535 Index. Godfrey, Ms modesty, &c. 239 Golden rod, or thread - 535 Gonorrhoea - - 384 Goosegrass, properties of 535 Gordon, captain, of the Bri- tish navy - - 677 Gout - - - 380 doctor, anecdote of ib. Graham, John, friend of humanity - - 685 Gravel, treatment of - 348 Graves, major, died for his country - - 252 Grayson, captain, his gal- lant conduct - 664 Greene, general, his death 30 1 Greenleaf's Point, explo- sion at - - 681 Green-sickness - 449 Grief, injurious to heaJth 165 deep, induces insanity and death - - 166 its best remedy - 168 Grimes, Dr. his mode of administering the pride of china • - 484 Grinding pains - - 462 Gripes in infants - 480 Grog blossoms - - 394 Ground holly, properties of 536 Ground pine, - - 536 Ground pink - ib. Guinea pepper - - 537 worm - - 409 H Hamilton, hon. Paul, the philanthropist and patriot 494 his description of the button snake root - 505 the heart snake root 537 of the pleurisy root 576 of the squirrel ear 596 his mode of adminis- tering the May apple 556 Archibald, lieutenant, died for his country 252 — account of his death 505 709 Hamilton, captain, died for his country - - 252 Hammock, Ur. celebrates hops in ulcers - 543 Hannibal, his excessive pride - - 231 Hardicanute, killed by glut- tony - - 95 Hart, captain, died for his country - - 252 Harriet, story of - 139 Hartshorn, doses of - 632 Harts* tongue, properties of 537 Harvey, discoverer of the circulation of the blood 51 Hatred, destructive to mind and body - - 196 instances of - 197 Hawes, hon. A. the friend of humanity - - 685 Mrs. testifies the tonic effects of Samson snake root - - - 591 Head, description of - 41 Headach - - 327 Heart, anatomy of - 49 Heartburn - - 369 Heart's ease, properties of 537 Heart snake root, - ib. Hellebore, properties of 538 Hemlock, properties of 540 Hemorrhoidal ointment, 658 Flenbane, properties of 541 Henderson, colonel, died for his country - - 252 Hendry, Dr. testifies the efficacy of crane's bill as an astringent - - 514 Herb bennet - - 541 trinity - - 542 Hesiod, his observations re- lating U) hope - 157 Hiccup - - 367 Hickman, captain, died for his country - - 252 Hill, sir J. his effrontery 590 Hippocrates, his jealousy 142 HiveS) treatment of - 488 710 Index. Hoarseness - 302 and 546 Hogbed, properties of - 542 Holmes, captain, died for his country - - 252 Holvvell, colonel, his ac- count of the black hole in Calcutta - - 279 Holy thistle - - 542 Homer, cause of his death 167 Hooded widow herb - 542 Hooper, captain, died for his country - - 252 Hooping Cough - - 490 Hope, the source of human happiness - - 156 — its great influence on the body - - 158 Hoppuck, captain, died for his country - 252 Hops, properties of - 542 Horehound, properties of 545 Horse-radish, properties of ib. Hosack, Dr. a meritorious and distinguished botanist 494 Hospitals, a cheap plan re- commended to planters 27 — — ought now to be esta- blished in all our sea-port towns - - - 28 a most miserable sub- stitute for one - 689 Houseleek, properties of 546 Howell, lieut. died for his country - 252 Hughes, Dr. recommends lavender thrift as an an- tisceptic - - 550 Hunter, Rev. Dr. slept comfortably under snow 113 Husbands, instances of the base cruelty of some, 149, 222 Hydrophobia - - 408 Hygieine, or means of pre- serving health - 72 Hypochondriac disease 359 Hypocrisy - - 253 Hyssop, properties of - 546 Hysteric fits - - 356 I Si J Jack, captain, died foi* his country - - 253 Jalap, doses of - - 632 James' Town weed - 549 Jaundice - - - 399 Jaundice, infantile - 478 Iceplant, properties of 547 Jealousy, horrid effects of 143 Jerusalem oak, - 549 Imagination, force of 455 Imperforated anus - 474 vagina - ib. Impiety, consequences of 363 Incontinence of urine - 347 Indian hemp, properties of 547 physic, properties of ib. tobacco - - 548 turnip - - - ' ib. Indigestion - - 370 Indigo weed, properties of 549 Infants, diseases of, requir- ing external treatment 473 Infection, means of arrest- ing its progress - 298 Inflammation of the bladder 326 of the brain 299 of the breast 465 of the eyes 312 of the intestines 324 of the kidnies 325 of the liver 320 of the lungs 317 of the stomach 322 of the throat 304 Influenza - - - 301 Ingenhouz, Dr. his remarks on the properties of plants 86 Injections how prepared 652 Injuries of the head 434 Intemperance, a suicidal practice - - 215 — — a miserable refuge from misfortune - 216 — danger of - 221 instances of persons being reclaimed - 224 Index. 711 Intestines, anatomy of - 56 Intoxication, description of 402 how to be treated 403 Joan, murders her husband 145 Johnson, Dr. his pleasure on seeing ladies at work 109 Joseph, his exemplary con- duct - - - 147 Joy, facilitates the cure of disease - - - 160 fatal instances of when excessive - - 162 Ipecacuanha, doses of - 632 American - 549 Issues - - - - 443 Itch - - . - 396 Itch lotion, how prepared 65 1 Juniper, properties of - 550 Ivy - - - - 549 K Kellie, Dr. hi remedy for the ague - - 279 Key, F. Esq. his noble conduct - 686 Kidnies, their use - 61 King, Dr. testifies the effi- cacy of thorn apple in af- fections of the brain - 600 King of Hungary, story of 175 King's evil - - 398 Kingston, sir Wm. his cruel disposition - - 203 Kittering, V. Mr. states chickweed tobeaspecific for the bite of a mad dog 5 10 Kollock, Dr. testifies the efficacy of the pride of China as a febrifuge - 585 L Labour, symptoms of - 456 management of - 457 -— lingering - - ib Lacedemonians, their re- spect to ojd age - 239 Lambkill - - - 550 Lavater, his remarks on dress 242 Lauderdale, col. died for his country - - 252 Laudanum, doses of - 632 how prepared - 658 ' — caution in the use of 315 Lavender, doses of - 632 thrift, properties of 550 Laurel - ib Lawrence, captain, his dy- ing injunction - - 252 Leadwater, how prepared 649 Leeches, mode of applying 441 Legate, lieut. died for his country - - - 252 Legs, description of - 32 — dislocation of - - 434 — fracture of - - 435 Lemon tree - - - 551 Lettuce, wild, properties of 552 Lichen, properties of - ib Life root, properties of 553 Ligaments, anatomy of - 33 Lightning, how to recover persons apparently killed by - - - - 405 Lime kilns, dangerous ef- fects of - - - 85 Lime water, how prepared 647 Lind, Dr. his remarks re-^ lating to the passions - 158 Little, Dr. celebrates the may appleas an excellent purge - - - 656 Liver, anatomy of - 60 Lobelia, properties of - 553 Lochial discharge - 447 Lockjaw - 365 Looseness - 376 Love^ definition of - - 129 — the powerful influence of 129 — propitious, conducive to health - - - 137 — disappointed, renders the soul frantic - - ib Lover, false, an abominable character - - - 15! Index. 712 Lowndes, hon. W. friend of humanity - - 685 Lowness of spirits - - 359 Ludlow, lieut. died for his country - 252 Lumbago - - - 332 Lungs, description of - 48 M Madder, properties of - 554 Madison, Mrs. her amiable character duly apprecia- ted - - - - 674 Magdeburg, bishop, his faith 265 Magnesia, doses of - 632 Magnolia, properties of - 554 Maiden hair, properties of 55 5 Male fern - - - ib Malignant fever - 290 sore throat - - 307 Mallow, common - 555 Management of child-bed 464 of infants - 468 Mandrake, or may apple 556 Manna, doses of - - 632 Marsh mallow, properties of 556 Martin, sailing-master, his gallant conduct - 664 Mason, T. Esq. celebrates pleurisy root in inflam- matory diseases - 575 Masterwort, properties of ib Maximianus, his envy - 211 May apple - - 557 May rant, col. his descrip- tion of the samson snake root - - - 590 May weed, properties of 557 M'Cormick, col. D. testi- fies the efficacy of peach leaves in bilious fever 571 M'Kenney, Mr. W. friend of humanity - - 685 M*Kim, hon. Alex, friend of humanity - - 685 M'Donough, lieut. died for his country - - - 252 Mead, captain, died for his country - 252 Mease, Dr. deserving of high praise - - 494 testifies the efficacy of alder as an antiseptic 495 Measles - - - 339 Mechanism of the human body, contrivance of - 67 Meconium, observations on 471 Medicine, some knowledge of, important to the heads of families - - 19 — — necessary caution in the use of - - 21 Membranes, description of 36 Menstruation, - - 447 Mercurial solution, - 646 Mezereon, properties of 557 Middleton, captain, died for his country - - 252 Milesian virgins, tl^ir great modesty -: ^ - - 237 Miliary fever - - 467 Militia, anecdotes of - 668 shamefully neglected 688 Milk, properties of - 101 Milk fever - - - 467 Milk, or silk weed - 558 Milkwort, properties of 559 Milledge, hon. John, culti- vates the benne - 500 Miller, major, his gallant conduct - 664 Miltwaste - - - 55*9 Minor, col. his opinion re- specting the fate of Wash- ington - - - 662 Mint 559 Miscarriage - - - 453 Misleto, properties of 559 Mison, his hatred of man 197 Mitchill, Dr. his account of Miss Baker 121 Dr. deservedly ap- preciated 494 celebrates the elm in several diseases - 521 Index* Modesty, its great influence 223 Monimia, her deplorable fate - - 151 Montagne, relates a singular story of a king 184 Monteith, surgeon of the Bri- tish army, his death 661 Moore, Dr. cites a case rela- tive to the force of imagi- nation - - 456 Moorwort, properties of 560 Motherwort, properties of ib Mountain tea, properties of ib Moiithwort, or golden thread 561 Mortification - 428 Mosely, Dr. his favourite re- medy in dysentery 351 Mug wort, properties of 561 Muir, Rev. Dr. a delegate 657 Mulberry tree, properties of 561 Mullein, properties of * 562 Mwmps - - 311 Muscles, de^ription of 33 Music, powerful effects of 194 Mustard, properties of 562 N Navel string, manner of ty- ing it - - - 468 Navy, brilliant achieve- ments of - - 667 Nerves, description of 34 Nervous fever - - 290 Nettle rash - - 395 Nettle, stinging - - 563 Nightmare - - 368 Nightshade, properties of 564 Nipples, sore - 466 Nitre, doses of - 632 Nitric acid diluted . 643 Nostrils, their use 44 Nostrums, danger of 20 O a Oak, the bark of, possesses in a great degree astrin- 713 gent, tonic, and antisep- tic properties 566 — astonishing cure wrought by it - - 566 Obstruction of urine 387 0*Fling, ensign, died for his country - - 252 Ointment, basilicon 659 hemorrhoidal 65{i mercurial - ib — simple - ib saturnine - ib Omentum, its use - 59 Onions, properties of 567 Opiates, caution in the use of 3 1 5 Opium, doses of - 632 Opodeldoc, how prepared 657 Orange-tree - 569 Orne, Dr. recommends cow- parsnip in epilepsy 518 Ovaria, description of 63 P Pace, captain, died for his country - 252 Pagan religion, account of 169 Pain of the stomach 372 Palate, elongation of 311 Palmer, Mr. anecdote of 383 Palpitation of the heart 366 Palsy, treatment of 358 Pancreas, its use - 61 Papau - - 569 Papoose root - 569 Paraphymosis - - 384 Paregoric elixir, doses of 632 how prepared - 655 Parrot, killed by eating the berries of pride of China 584 Parsley-leaved yellow-root, 570 Parsley, properties of 571 Passions are either of an agreeable or disagreeable nature - - 128 Patent medicines, or nos- trums, why dangerous 20 Patriotism, definition of 248 of Themistocles 249 4 X 714 Index, Patriotism of a French soldier 250 — of an Englisli sailor 251 of Americans 252 Peach-tree, properties of 571 Perspiration, insensible, the imi)ortance of 38, 244 when suppressed, the danger of - 39 Penis, anatomy of - 63 Pennyroyal, properties of 572 Peppermint, properties of 572 Pepper, red, properiies of 574 Pericles, his command of temper • 190 Peripneumony - 317 Petechial fever - 290 Peter, major, his gallant conduct - 662 J'hilip, his good nature 192 Phrensy - - 299 Phymosis - - 384 Physic, Dr. his excellent advice in hemorrhage of the extremities - 422 Pike, general, died nobly for his country - 252 Piles - - 349 Pills, mercurial - 646 .. purgative - 644 -. ■ . of sugar of lead and ipecacuanha - 645 — tonic - - ib vitriolic - - Pinkroot, properties of 574 Pins, swallowing of - 409 Pisswort - - 575 Pittacus, his shrew of a wife 1 44 Placenta , - - 460 Plantain, properties of 575 Plaster blistering - 659 Pleurisy, treatment of 314 Pleurisy root, properties of 575 Plutarch, his observations relating to bashfulness 238 Poe, lieut. c^ied for his coun- try - - 253 Poison, treatment of 405 ■ oak, properties of 577 Pokeweed, properties of 578 Polygonum, properties of 579 Polypody, properties of 579 Pomegranate, properties of 579 Pope, Julius, relieved of a fever by joy - 1 60 Poplar-tree, properties of 580 Poppy, white, properties of 580 Potatoe, sweet, properties of 581 wild - - 582 Poultry, - - 102 Pox, treatment of - 388 Pregnancy, signs of 451 Preliminary observations 17 Prickly ash, properties of 582 heat, treatment of 395 pear, properties of 583 yellow wood - 582 Pride of India, or China) 583 Progress of labour - 456 Prolapsus ani - 414 Pr >metheus, his story rela- ting to intemperance 217 Prostate gland, description 63 Ptolomeus, cried for joy 161 PucCoon - - 585 Puerperal fever • 468 Putrid fever - 290 Putrid sore throat - 307 Pythagorean philosopher go- verned by his conscience 179 Q Quacks, cause of their in- crease - . - 19 Quaker girl, her attractions 247 Quarles, captain, died for his country - 252 Queen of the meadows 585 Quince-tree, properties of 585 Quinsy, treatment of 304 R Radish, properties of 586 Ramsey, Dr. his death 426 Rand, Dr. celebrates fox- glove in spitting of blood, 531 Index. 715 l^asberry, properties of - 586 Rattle snake root - 586 Rattle snake violet - 538 Red gum, treatment of 479 Regimen, its imporiance 27 Religion conduces greatly to health - - 253 gives a check to our passions - - - 257 purifies our enjoy- ments in life - - 258 — — — the reverence which heathens paid to it - S>64 Remittent fever - 280 Rheumatism - - 330 Rhubarb, doses of - 634 wiW - - - 588 Ribs, use of - - 31 Rickets - - - 492 Ricketson, Dr. his mode of extracting opium - 580 Ringgold, hon. S. friend of humanity - - - 685 Ring-worm - - 397 Ripley, general, his gallant conduct - 662 Robert, king, his forbearance 19 1 Romans, great drinkers 105 Roosevelt, lieut. died for his country - - 253 Rose, properties of - 588 willow, properties of 589 Ross, general, his conduct at Washington - 670 Rue - - - ' - 589 Routs, dangerous tendency of - - - - 79 Ruptures - - - 412 Rush, Dr. his observations relating to wine - 615 S Sage, properties of - 589 Saint Anthony's fire - 341 Sailor, American, singular patriotism of one - 252 Sailors, too inattentive to health - - - 288 Sailors, deserve the best treatment - - - 28 Saline mixture, doses of 636 — how prepared - 643 Salt of tartar, doses of 634 Samson snake root, 590 Sanicle, American - 591 Sarsaparilla, properties of 591 Sassafras, properties of 592 Sausages - 102 Savannah, citizens of, noted for their hospitality 615 Scaldhead - - . 397 Scalds and burns - 411 Scirrhus - - - 417 Sciatica - , - - 332 Scipio, his virtue - - 145 Scrofula - 398 Scullcap, blue - - 592 Scurvy - ■ - 393 Scurvy grass, properties of 592 Sea sickness - 402 Secretory vessels, use of 36 Seminal weakness - 387 Senna, properties of 593 Senses, specified and defined 4 1 Seton - 443 Severus, his reverence for religion - - - 265 Sevier, captain of marines, his gallant conduct 664 Shaw, Dr. his death - 570 Sight, the sense of analyzed 42 Sinapisms, how prepared 660 Syrup of flaxseed - 528 Skin, anatomy of - - 36 the functions of, ex- plained - - 37, 39 diseases of - 394 Skoke - -. 593 Skunk cabbage ' - 593 Slaves, brutally murdered 185 revenge of one on his master - - 1^9^ the manner they ought to be treated - - 26 Slave trade, barbarity of - 82 Sleep, concise history of 1 14 consequences arising 716 Index. from too much or too little - - - 117 after dinner, whether advisable - - 117 Sleeptalker - - - 121 Sleepwalker - - 122 Smali-pox - - - 337 Smith, iieut. died for his country - - - 252 Snuffles - - - 478 Soapwort, properties of 594 Socrates, his maxim relat- ing to food - - - 95 Solander, Dr. advice of, re- lating to cold - 111 Solution of kali, - - 647 — crude sal ammoniac ib Sore eyes - - - 312 — nipples - - 466 Sorrel, properties of - 595 Southern wood - - 595 South-sea tea, properties of ib Speech, blessing of - 45 Spence, Dr. his mode of exhibiting fox-glove - 530 Spencer, captain, died for his country - - 252 Spikenard, properties of 596 Spirit of lavender, doses of 634 . of Hiindererus, doses 643 how prepared - 636 Spitting of blood - 343 Spleen, description of - 61 I enlargement of - 278 Spleenwort - 596 Spotted fever - - 290 Sprains and bruises - 430 Squirrel ear, properties of 596 Stansbury, lieut. died for his country - - 252 Stevenson, Dr. his remark on bowel complaints - 350 — his treatment of a hy- pochondriac - - 361 Still born infant, mode of recovering - - 47:^ Stings of insects - 406 Stink weed - - - 597 Stockton, John, his deplor- able situation ^ - 680 Stoddard, major, died for his country - - 25? Stomach, description of 54 Stork, Dr. testifies the ef- ficacy of henbane in pal- pitation - - - 541 Strangury - - 348 Strawberry, properties of 597 Stroke of the sun - - 300 Stye, see sore eyes Sugar of lead, doses of 634 Sulphur, doses of - ib Sumach, properties of - 597 Sundew, properties of 598 Suppression of urine - 348 Sutures - - - 424 Swallow wort - - - 599 Swan, W. esq. a delegate 677 Swelling of the breast in infants - - - 475 Swift, J. esq. a delegate 677 Swine pox - r 340 T Table of medicines for fa- mily use - - 632 of weights and mea- sures - - 638 Taliaferro, John, esq. his remedy for whitlow 416 Tansy - - 599 Tartar emetic, doses of 634 on the teeth, how to remove and prevent it 329 Tar water, how prepared 648 Taste, pleasures of 45 Tea - - 106 Teeth, management of 329 Teething - - 486 Tendons, use of - 34 Testicles, anatomy of 53 swelling of - 385|^ Index, 111 Tetany, treatment of 365 Tetters, treatment of 397 Thatcher, Dr. entitled to praise - - 494 Theodoricus, his shocking death - - - 178 Thighs, description of 32 I — dislocation of 434 fiacture of - 435 Thorax, description of 48 Thomas, Dr. testifies the good effects of cayenne in putrid sore throat 309 recommends char- coal to stop bleeding at the nose - - 342 Thomas, Dr. G. testifies the efficacy of calico tree in diarrhoea - - 506 Thorn apple, properties of 599 Thornton, Dr. cultivates ginseng - - 535 Thoroughwort, properties 603 Throat-root - * - 604 Thrush, treatment of Thyme, properties of 480 604 Timon, the man-hater 197 Tincture of bark 654 of cantharides 655 of columbo 654 — of foxglove 655 of myrrh ib. — — of rhubarb 654 — — of steel 634 rheumatic 656 thebaic 653 Tinea, or scald-head 397 Tobacco, properties of 605 Tongue-tied 474 Tonic drops, 644 — • powders, doses of 636 hovr prepared 640 Toothach - 329 Toothach-tree 610 Touchwood ib. Towson, captain, his gallant conduct 662 Travellers in winter, caution to - - - 111 Trefoil . - 610 Troup, hon. G. M. friend of humanity - - 685 his great virtue 688 testifies the efficacy of peach-tea in fevers 571 his deafness cured 328 Tumours - - - 416 on the scalp of in- fants - - - 473 Turner's cerate, how pre- pared - - 659 Typhus fever - - 290 U Ulceration of the navel 475 Ulcers - - - 419 Ureters, use of - - 61 Urethra - - 63 Uterus, description of 62 Unicorn root - - 611 V Vaccine disease - 333 Vagina, description of 62 Valerian - - - 611 Vanhorn, captain, died for country - 252 Vanity, effects of - 228 cure of - - 233 Van Ness, general, friend of humanity - - 68^5 Veins, description of - 35 Venereal disease - 384 Venison - - - 102 Villars murders his wife 149 Vine, cultivation of - 612 Violet, rattle snake - 62 1 Violet, sweet, - - - ib. Virgin's bower - - 622 Vitriolic solution - - 640 Voltaire, his conversion 266 Vomiting, treatment of 284, 375 718 Index, W Wake robin Walnut, properties of AVarm bath, virtues of Warts Washing of infants Washington, general, his death . - - city, capture of Water cresses Water, impure, how to cor- rect it - - - trefoil ' - Watery head Wattles, captain, died for his country Wayne, general, his death Weakness of the stomach Weems, Dr. his prescrip- tion - - - his death Wells, dry, danger of White betony, properties of Whites White swelling White vitriol, doses of White bryony White wood - - - Whitlow Wilkinson, Dr. celebrates the willow as a tonic Williams, captain, died for his country Willow Wistar, Dr. celebrates ni- 623 ib. 25 415 469 306 661 623 103 624 486 25V 382 370 374 ib. 84 624 449 400 634 624 624 415 625 252 624 trie acid in liver com- plaints - - - 322 Withering, Dr. testifies the efficacy of fox-glove in dropsy - - - 532 Willow, properties of - 624 Wilmer, lieut. died for his country - - - 252 Wind and costiveness of children - 480 Wine, excellent to prevent as well as cure diseases 612 the "use of economy 613 abuse of, injurious 614 receipts for making 616 adulteration of, how detected - - - 289 Winterberry - 625 Wintergreen - 625 Wood betony, properties of 625 Woodhouse, Dr. his de- scription of the parsley- leaved yellow root his (il&ath Woi^ms W ormseed Wormwood Wounds 570 ib 484 625 625 422 625 Yarrow, properties of Yates, lieut. died for his country - - 253 Yeast, receipts for making 544 Yellow fever - 28a i f I