TROOPS l\ T THE WEST INDIES. :i85 



thereafter to give the Peruvian bark in 3ubstance, in full 

 doses, and at proper intervals, until the disorder be effectual- 

 ly stopt. 



But if the ague has continued some time, and the patient 

 complains of the bark loading his stomach, or if the bark be 

 rejected, it is probable that topical affections of the alimentary 

 canal, and of the viscera, are about to take place ; and this 

 will be certain, if, at the same time, there are symptoms of 

 phlogistic diathesis. In this case, small doses of pulvis anti- 

 monialis, and saline draughts in an effervescing state, should 

 be given to open the pores of the skin. 



When these failed, one grain of calomel, given three times 

 a-day, either alone or accompanied with an opiate, had the de- 

 sired effect. The calomel was then discontinued, and the cure 

 finished by the Peruvian bark. 



Quotidians and quartans were treated in the same manner 

 as tertians, but they are more difficult of cure. When there 

 were signs of visceral obstructions, calomel, in small doses, 

 was given daily, until a copperish taste was perceived in the 

 mouth, and the gums were slightly affected, when it was dis- 

 continued. In this case the disorder generally disappears, 

 without the farther use of the bark. But, should the ague 

 recur, it may be easily stopped by a few large doses of pow- 

 der of Peruvian bark. 



In the cold fit of agues, draughts of warm ginger-tea, or 

 warm water-gruel with wine, were given, and the patient was 

 moderately covered with bed-clothes. 



When the hot fit came on, and had continued about ten 

 minutes, a large dose of laudanum was given with a happy 

 effect. The pores of the skin were opened, a gentle diapho- 

 resis came on, the patient was disposed to sleep, and in a little 

 time freed of all his complaints. The Peruvian bark was 

 now given with safety and success. 



Accidental Symptoms. — It frequently happens in long pro- 



B b 



