Chemical and Physical Papers. 191 



that the millet also contained an excess of alkali. It is probable 

 that the soil had something to do with the large percentage of toxic 

 principle, as it is well known that variation in soil constituents has 

 a marked efPect upon the increase in toxic principles where they 

 are liable to exist. Millet under normal conditions has a diuretic 

 effect and throws a vast amount of work upon the kidneys, which, 

 when overworked, produce muscular disorders. 



