in reference to their Counter-Poisons. 217 



acetic acid may prove serviceable, where acetous^ acid would 

 not prove effectual. 



Two and a half drachms of tincture of opium were given to 

 a rabbit. In a short time the eye became more opake. The 

 pupil dwindled to a mathematical point, and was insensible to 

 the stimulus of light. The head fell to the floor — the breath- 

 ing was laborious and difficult, and loud — and there super- 

 vened a total prostration of strength. Acetic acid was then 

 administered through a quill, and applied to the mouth on a 

 sponge repeatedly. The head was also bathed with acetic 

 acid ; and it was also applied to the extremities, and in the 

 direction of the spine. The whole quantity of the acetic acid 

 used was about a fluid ounce. The animal was also frequent- 

 ly roused, and finally kept warm. The animal effectually re- 

 covered. 



These experiments were repeated with uniform success on 

 other rabbits. Several days have elapsed, and they continue 

 in the most healthy condition. 



I much regret that these experiments have been so painful 

 to me, as to cause for some time an interruption of my re- 

 searches on Hyoscyamus niger, Atropa belladonna, Cicuta vi- 

 rosa, and other vegetable poisons ; and nothing but the high 

 importance which might attach to the discovery of an antidote 

 to their fatality could have induced me to commence these ex- 

 periments. 



I have no hesitation to pronounce with most positive cer- 

 tainty, that in ammonia will be found a complete antidote to 

 hydrocyanic acid, and in acetic acid an effectual counter-poi- 

 son to opium. 



The agency of voltaic excitement holds out a method to 

 discover the comparative sedative or narcotic properties of 

 vegetable juices, as well as their counter-agents. It unfolds 

 also those that are stimulant, and those that are riot, with 

 their relative correctives. By this means, we are prepared, by 

 well-grounded anticipation, for the successful application of an 

 antidote. 



