920 On Diseases and Accidenps of Farmers, 



over-exerled themselves, and of others who leisurely 

 finished their tasks, is very great. In the one case, a 

 stiffness in the limbs and a general indisposition, are often 

 the consequence ; while in the other, the labourers are 

 ready upon the return of the day, to renew their work. 

 Some farmers upon a false pecuniary calculation, encou- 

 rage such trials of speed. But exclusively of the risk of 

 health, and consequent loss of time, more is lost by run- 

 ning over a field, than is saved in wages and food. Good 

 and clean work, more than speed, is desirable, 



A greater quantity of ardent spirits than necessary, is 

 commonly used in the harvest field. A nominal quantity 

 per day is sometimes stipulated for, but this seldom holds 

 out, and a farmer who is anxious to secure his crop, and 

 keep his hired men in good humour, will not hesitate to 

 indulge them in an additional supply, if demanded. In- 

 tire relief from the disagreeable task of measuring out spi- 

 rits may often be avoided, by contracting with a person to 

 cut and secure the crop ; a gentleman farmer should al- 

 ways endeavour to do so. When a general indisposition 

 takes place after severe labour in the field, the best reme- 

 dy is, an infusion of thorough-wort^ a plant growing along 

 creeks and in moist places. It should be taken strong at 

 first, to operate as an emetic and purge, and afterwards it 

 may be drunk weak, but warm, to promote perspiration, 

 which it will do most powerfully. The person affected 

 must lie in bed. If the head ache, ten or twelve ounces 

 of blood should be taken away ; and as little nourishment 

 as possible be given, until the stomach recover its tone, 

 and the whole system its healthy action. 



A still more serious peril attends harvest. This is the 

 sudden loss of sense and muscular power, from impru- 

 dently drinking cold water, while the body is very warm. 

 The remedies must be active and speedily applied, or 

 death will be the inevitable consequence, even before a 



