324 
I am inclined, however, to question the absolute uniformity in 
the composition of any natural waters, because, as we know, they 
rive then ingredients from the rocks through which they pass, 
and these themselves are never or seldom of uniform chemical 
composition. If, moreover, Ave compare the analyses made at 
various intervals of Avaters like those of Bath, avo may notice 
differences, Avhich may be ascribed to defective analysis, but Avhich 
may also be partly due to slight variations in the rocks from AA’’hich 
the Avaters derive their mineral ingredients. Some Avaters, indeed, 
Avhich have been credited Avith Avorking Avonderful cures, have 
proved on analysis to contain but homoeopathic doses, Avhich might 
be used as an argument in favour of the efficacy of this system 
of medicine. 
But the people Avho, in by-gone days, visited our spas, set out 
on the journey in coaches, or AA'^aggons, or post-chaises, proceeding 
by gradual stages ; Avhilo noAV-a-days they Avould travel by rail at 
forty or fifty miles an hour, and expect to be cured Avith corres- 
ponding rapidity. This and other reasons have combined to 
render our spas and notable springs a matter chiefly of historic 
interest**; but, on this account, I did not think it Avould be less 
Avorth Avhile bringing the subject before you. 
Appended is a list of all the books and papers dealing Avitli 
Norfolk Avaters Avhich I have been able to ascertain. 
1G99. 
Allen, B. 
The Natural History of the Chalybeat and Purging Waters of England. 
[Aylesham, pp. 23.] 8vo. London. 
Another Edition entitled. The Natural History of the Mineral Waters 
of Great Britain. 8vo. London, 1711. 
1781. 
Elliot, Dr. J. 
An account of tlie Nature and Medicinal Virtues of the Principal 
Mineral Waters of Great Britain and Ireland. [Aylesliain, pp. 127 ; 
Thetford, pp. 170.] 8vo. London. 
Another edition in 1789. 
• See Granville, op. cit. p. xxxv. &c. 
