240 Dr. Eafon on the XJJe of Acids . 
the more finifhed hypocrite, or the more exqui- 
fite voluptuary. In a word, let virtue form the 
bafe and the fhaft of the column ; and I have 
not the leaft obje&ion, that tafte fhould furniih 
the foliage, and ornament the capital. 
Observations on the Use of Acids in bleach¬ 
ing of Linen. By Dr. Eason. Read Auguft 7, 
1782. 
T HE ufe of acids, in bleaching of linen, has 
been long known. Formerly milk was 
chiefly employed ; but it had feveral incon¬ 
veniences. The quantity requifite could fcarcely 
be obtained; its effect was flow; and, contain¬ 
ing animal matter, it was apt to rot and fpoil the 
cloth. 
About thirty years ago, it was difcovered, that 
the folfil acids, when properly diluted with water, 
anfwered much better, and would do more in 
a few hours, than animal acids could do in a 
week, in facilitating the whitening of cloth. 
At firft, it was imagined, that the mineral 
acids would be apt to burn, or corrode linen fub- 
ftances, when immerfed in them. But experi¬ 
ence foon difpelled fuch fears, and convinced 
bleachers. 
