279 



experiments, was far from being recent, we must be asto- 

 nished at the minute quantity, that proves sufficient to 

 keep the uric acid in sohition: but this wonder ceases, 

 when we recollect, that the proportion of it, in the above 

 quantities of urine, is extremely small, and that it is 

 scarcely acid; as Ave may learn from the controversy tliat 

 took place, between tAvo such able chemists as Pearson 

 a;nd Fourcroy, on this subject. Finding, then, our com- 

 mon Ume-Avater exerting such powers, in preventing the 

 separation or crystallization of this substance, it occurred 

 to me, that much more might be expected from barjtic 

 lime-Avater, as containing a larger proportion of saline mat- 

 ter in solution; and that, though, from its poisonous effects 

 in the carbonated state, the internal exhibition would be 

 hazardous, yet it might prove an useful remedy, when in- 

 jected into the bladder. But hoAV uncertain are our appa- 

 rently best founded theories, Avhen not deduced from 

 experiment ! 



iVXPEItlMElfT VI. 



To three ounces of urine, Avas added one drachm of ba- 

 rytic lime-water, Avhich immediately seemed to decompose 

 the Avhole, render it turbid, and give it the appearance of 

 the urina jumentosa; for reasons easily and satisfactorily 

 explained by Fourcroy, to Avhom I must refer. After tAvo 

 days, I Avas surprised to find some small crystalline matter 

 adhering to the sides of the glass; and, upon examining 



N n 2 the 



