Farcy. 125 



both to the sufferings of the patient, and the absurd speculations of 

 the Doctor. 



In thus delivering my sentiments respecting" the effects of Calo- 

 mel upon Horses, as I am aware that they militate against gene- 

 rally received opinions, so I hope it will not appear that I am under 

 the influence of prejudice ; for having no hypothesis to serve, I 

 consider that it would be a species of injustice to my reader, were I 

 to withhold my experience of facts, which has produced a settled 

 conviction in my mind, of the dangerous consequences resulting' 

 from the promiscuous use of Calomel in this, as well as many of the 

 other diseases of Horses. Moreover, Calomel has a disposition when 

 used as an alterative, to attack the salivary glands of the Horse, 

 more easily than any other preparation of mercury, with which I 

 am acquainted, which property depends, probably, upon its being 

 more easily absorbed into the system. 



Further, it does not appear to me, that mercury in any form, is a 

 specific in any of the disorders of Horses ; and I am most decidedly 

 of opinion, that it is frequently had recourse to, both as an alterative, 

 and as an additional ingredient in purgative medicines, where its use 

 is productive lof much mischief. But, the particular preparation of 

 this mineral, which I have recommended the use of in Farcy, is 

 rarely, if ever, found to attack the mouth or bowels. Its palpable 

 effects seem to be confined, to the kidnies and urinary passages, and 

 if be used with that caution, which I have all along recommended, 

 it will not only be found a most powerful and useful remedy in 

 Farcy, but by its ultimate effects, will tend to lessen the ravages of 

 the Glanders ; which, like the gout to physicians, hath hitherto re- 

 mained a popular opprobium to the Veterinary art. 



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