189G The Zoologist— November, 1869. 



which can only be through its own inherent irritabililj^ and its own 

 ganglionic supply, and quite independent of the medulla, which, in 

 other respects, is liors de combat from three to four minutes before the 

 heart actually ceases to pulsate." 



This experiment, though unsuccessful in demonstrating the good 

 effucts of the reputed antidote, cannot be considered as conclusive, 

 as the man stated that it was not the most potent agent he was in the 

 habit of using, nor, indeed, should I consider any single trial as proof 

 either for or against the good effects of the drug, however it had 

 resulted. Many and repeated experiments are necessary before any 

 definite opinion can be formed on so important a subject, and, there- 

 fore, before recording one it is expedient that the experiments should 

 be made again ; and as Col, Showers has expressed a wish that the 

 man should have further opportunity of exhibiting his antidote, 

 I think that, on a future occasion, more certain results may be 

 obtained. 



Having studied the effects of the poison in many animals, and 

 having formed conclusions as to the nature of the cause of death, I 

 am sceptical on the subject of antidotes, and fear that the hopes of 

 those who are most sanguine on the subject will not be realized. I 

 am not the less anxious, though, to become acquainted with whatever 

 may be of service in the treatment of snake-bites, whether prophylactic 

 or therapeutic ; and I shall be glad to record any facts that tend to 

 throw light on the subject, as to admit the potency of an antidote 

 when I see it proved. Col. Showers informs me that the kelaree makes 

 the following objections to the experiment: — 1st, that he was not 

 fully prepared ; 2ndly, that the antidote was not the most reliable 

 one he knows of; 3rdly, that the animal was bitten three times by 

 the cobra. 



With reference to these I would remark, that the lime for the ex- 

 periment was appointed some days previously ; that he was invited to 

 make any previous preparation he thought desirable ; that the room 

 in which the experiments were performed was placed at his disposal, 

 and that certain snakes were also made over to him ; that he locked 

 himself in for some lime the day before making his preparations; and 

 that Mr. Sceva was most careful to see that all he wanted was pro- 

 cured, and all his wishes carried out on the day of the experiment. 

 The animal bitten was placed at his disposal to do what he liked 

 with, and all his wishes were complied with to the minutest details. 

 If, therefore, anything were wanting the fault was his own. 



