ON GLYCERINE. 
O 
since he says it has failed completely in some experiments 
undertaken by him. He adds : 
“ It certainly preserves colours admirably, and has some remarkable 
effects in preventing the usual odour of putrefaction, but some substances 
which I placed in it have become completely softened down and destroyed. 
The exact changes it produces are well worth an extended research, but 
would occupy more time than I can command at present. Still, from its 
very striking effects of preserving colour and preventing putrefactive 
changes, especially the development of odour, at least for a time, it is likely 
to prove of great value where pathological or natural history preparations 
are required to be kept for a short period, either for more complete ex- 
amination, or for obtaining drawings of them. Tor microscopic preparations 
I have found it to answer very well when the specimens are suitably 
selected. I subjoin M. Cap’s tests of the purity of this fluid : 
“ 1st. It should have no appreciable odour if a drop is rubbed on the 
hand. 
“ 2d. Its consistence should be that of thick syrup, not absolutely 
colourless, but of a slight amber hue. 
“ 3d. One volume should dissolve completely in one volume of alcohol 
acidulated with one per cent, of sulphuric acid, without giving any appre- 
ciable deposit, even after twelve hours (the deposit would be caused 
by lime). 
“ 4th. Diluted and boiled with liquor potassse, it should not be altered in 
colour, showing the absence of glucose. 
The utility of this agent, more especially in veterinary 
practice, only remains now to be spoken of ; although the 
observant practitioner will avail himself of the knowledge de- 
rived from its employment by members of the sister profes- 
sion, he knowing that what is often applicable for the higher 
and nobler animal, man, isequally so for thelower animals which 
come under his more immediate care and notice. Its efficacy 
when applied to wounds or putrid ulcers, as a traumatic, 
depends greatly on its antiseptic properties, besides which it 
is a gentle stimulant ; as it does not dry quickly, the lesion 
is kept moist, and the access of atmospheric air necessarily 
prevented. It likewise retards the drying of poultices. It 
may not possess any very great advantage over oils in this 
respect, except that it readily combines with the materials 
usually employed ; but should these agents be applied to 
w ounds, then we must not lose sight of the corrective pro- 
perties already alluded to. 
In scalds and burns its soothing influence is great, and it 
keeps the skin supple. Horn retains its pliability for a long 
time if smeared with it, and therefore in some foot cases, in 
wTiich brittleness of the hoof exists, its use w 7 ould be attended 
with benefit. 
Dr. Richter, of Vienna, advocates the use of a solution 
consisting of one part iodide of potassium dissolved in two 
