THE TREATMENT OF SNAKE BITE. 403 
to scarify and apply it first. If there is any delay, or if no 
crystals be at hand, then instantly affix the ligature. A good 
plan is to jerk out your handkerchief and tie it as tightly as you 
can with your hands, and then scarify the punctures and apply 
your potash. . Afterwards the ligature can be tightened to a 
greater degree by the insertion of a stick. 
If a friend is at hand, then both operations may be carried 
out simultaneously. 
As a general rule, if a ligature can be applied within a minute 
Fic. 148.—If bitten by a snake between the wrist and elbow apply a 
ligature as shown here. If on the hand apply an additional ligature 
on the wrist, or at the base of a finger if one should be bitten. The 
long dark lines show the course of the larger veins under the skin. 
The short dark lines indicate the site of the bite. 
of the infliction of the bite, it is best to affix it first, then apply 
the potash as soon after as possible. Everything depends upon 
expertness and promptness. 
After the permanganate has been applied, and the limb 
ligatured, press and rub the parts about the incisions with the 
fingers, with a view of forcing out as much blood as possible. 
The severing of two or three small veins in the ligatured member, 
helps to get rid of the poisoned blood. If there should be no 
