" Ctirare'^ and its Antidotes. 139 



absorbed into tbe circulating system, and proves entirely in- 

 noxious, nay in some cases even beneficial, when introduced 

 into the body by other means. 



The more the faculty became acquainted with the terrific 

 activity, and invariably fatal results of this poison, the more 

 zealously did science bestir itself to discover some means of 

 neutralizing the operation of the curare. Quite recently the 

 preparations of iodine-natron, when administered in certain 

 proportions, have been recognized as antidotes ; dissolved 

 with the curare they seem entirely to obviate its evil effects. 

 Careful observation and a gradual acquaintance with the 

 properties of the curare, have further led to the conclusion 

 that it may be regarded as a remedy in certain cases, and it has 

 actually been administered with good results to animals afiPected 

 with tetanic convulsions. May it be reserved to the physi- 

 cians of our native country, to elicit from the quantity of this 

 subtle and singular poison, which they may expect to receive 

 through the kindness of Dr. de Lagos, such results as shall 

 make its remedial properties available for man, instead of 

 leaving its baleful energies as at present solely directed to the 

 destruction of organic life ! 



In the company of our Brazilian friends, already mentioned, 

 we also visited the most interesting of the public charities and 

 educational institutions of Rio. 



On the occasion of a visit we paid to the in part newly- 

 erected Casa de Corre9ao, which is managed on what is known 

 as the Auburn system, we were shown three Mozambique 



