272 Correspondence of J. Nickles. 
he deflagration of powder takes place at 250°, but its combustibitity 
varies with the charge, and the size of the grain. T wder in 
rains burns between 270° and 320°, while powder pulverized, burns: 
between 265° and 270°. 
In view of the facts, M. Violette concludes that it is necessary to re- 
vise the charges employed, taking into consideration the actual com- 
powder, with charges calculated according to the actual composition 
of the charcoal, have given a range much beyond the standard rate ob- 
tained with the ordinary powder. 
periments on the Anesthetic properties of the smoke of the Lyco- 
perdon.—A naturalist of Paris, M. Frederic Gerard, has tried upon 
himself the effects of the smoke of the Lycoperdon proteus, (a species of 
puff-ball,) observed to be anzesthetic by Mr. Richardson. 12 grammes of 
this substance were placed on some tinder which kept up the combus- 
tion, and he placed his head in it for 15 minutes. It produced a strong 
irritation of the pharynx, and then of the eyes; after removing the ap- 
paratus, he experienced a series of narcotic effects, which incon- 
venienced him for several hours, and the next day, they had not entirely 
passed awa 
. Gerard has not succeeded in confirming the assertion of the 
“Mainzer Volksze eitung,” that animals subjected to this smoke, are 
thrown into a state of prostration resembling death. He has found also 
that the properties of the Lycope a bovista and L. excipuleformis, 
are _ same as those of the L. pro 
oroformization.—Dr. Jobert a Lashballe one of the principal 
surgeons of Paris, who has used chloroform since its anzsthetic pro- 
perties w Saad known, has presented a long.memoir on the observ- 
ations hich he has made on this subject, and on the precautions re- 
quisite in the employment of this stupefying liquid. 
We cite some passages from his repor 
Use of chloroform should cease, whenever the beatings of the hea 
lose at once their power and number. The physician should continually 
keep watch of his patient, and not judge of the action of the chloroferm 
from his irregular movements or loquacity, for the insensibil ity is often 
nervous system has sunk fom any violent shock, or when the patient 'S is 
depressed by Been, abundant suppuration, loss of blood, or an 
vanced chlorotic state. 
dens to reanimate the o organs ip currents of air directed upon the face 
oo members, giving the patient the poles most favorable for 
ling the circulation, by placing him horizontally on bis his backs - 
