of the Stomach. 285 



peatedly known much acidity and wind produced in that 

 visciis, by the strong reflection of light from the snow in 

 a bright winter day. Hence in walking, or riding, un- 

 der such circumstances, the eyes should be in some 

 measure defended. As variable weather, and a damp 

 atmosphere are prejudicial, it will be advisable to fix up- 

 on a place for a stated residence, where these evils pre- 

 vail in the smallest degree. A dr}'-, sandy soil, and an 

 elevated situation at a distance from the sea shore, is usu- 

 ally to be preferred. Some dyspeptic persons, howev- 

 er, appear to be benefitted by residing near the shore. — 

 This is especially the case with some females, who usu- 

 ally reside in the interior countrj^ ; and who spend no 

 small part of their lives in a rocking-chair, or about some 

 employment which scarcely furnishes any amusement, or 

 exercise. To such persons, I have repeatedly known a 

 a journey, and short residence by the shore, highly use- 

 ful. But the benefit here, though usually attributed to 

 the friendly influence of sea air, ought undoubtedly to be 

 attributed chiefly, and perhaps solely, to the exercise of 

 the journey, to the novelty, variety, and amusement de- 

 rived from an unceasing change of country, and that of- 

 ten a very beautiful one, to the conversation and kind of- 

 fices of near friends, to the cessation of the usual domes- 

 tic cares and anxieties, to an increased appetite, to a more 

 generous mode of living, and a uni\'ersal change of ob- 

 jects. A due degree of energy and exertion at home, 

 would, in many instances, throw ofl* the complaint also. 

 An obstructed perspiration of the head may be prevent- 

 ed, by avoiding hair powder and pomatum, and by comb- 

 ing it with a sharp ivory comb daily, and brushing it with 

 a stifl" brush. 



The efficacy of impure air in producing disorder in the 

 stom.ach, appears to me to be much greater, than is usu- 

 ally admitted. Most persons appear to believe, that the 

 danger to be apprehended from impure air, arises from 

 the effect which it has on the lungs, in consequence of 

 being inhaled. This opinion I cannot but think to be 

 erroneous. In the month of October, 1804, I was re- 

 quested to visit a man, li\ing about thirty miles distant, 

 who had a little time before, the misfortune to break his 



