158 The Triumphal Chariot of Antimony. 



The open wounds, in the treatment of 

 which this balm produces striking results, 

 are especially those on which the medical 

 profession have brought their plasters, 

 ligaments, and ointments to bear in 

 vain. 



You see that I speak out with great 

 simplicity, for I am a monk, and know 

 not the ways of the world. Yet I can- 

 not always discourse so plainly and lucidly 

 as the nature of the subject would 

 seem to require. 



This oil is very helpful in serious 

 cases of accident, and more especially in 

 old wounds, so that few medicines can sur- 

 pass it. That oil which is prepared with 

 the common sublimate of the apothecaries 

 has equal efficacy, and, frequently, as ex- 

 perience has taught, is superior in cancer, 

 lupus, and similar complaints. But in 

 ordinary cases of fistula, and in bruises 

 and ruptures, this balm has great efficacy. 

 I do not mention all its marvellous effects, 



those that are less good and brave in the middle. The 

 orator arranges his arguments on the same principle, and 

 Basilius follows their precedent. 



