438 PURGATIVES AND CLYSTERS IN SPASMODIC COLIC. 
and the muscles of the arm and shoulder diminished, while on 
the shoulder were ample marks of previous treatment. On 
the animal being made to move, the affected limb moved 
only from the knee, and that in a half circular direction, 
bringing it again in the position observed whilst standing. 
PURGATIVES AND CLYSTERS IN THE TREAT- 
MENT OF SPASMODIC COLIC IN THE HORSE. 
By G. Armatage, V.S., Sheffield. 
Nos. 338 and 340 of the Veterinarian for February and 
April, 1856, open with an elaborate article by Mr. Joseph 
Gamgee, M.R.C.V.S., upon the above subject; and from the 
character of the instances adduced, he brings positive proof of 
the absurdity of the present system of their wholesale admi- 
nistration. 
Judging from the silence of the members of our profession 
which has followed so valuable a production, I am inclined 
to believe in a great measure that s£ Truth has been drawn in 
its fairest lines f and is, therefore, too payable to be opposed. 
I would gladly have perused a communication from others 
te older in the service than myself,” rather than attempt to 
write, but being persuaded that the object is a laudable one, 
and we cannot well use it threadbare, I am induced to do so, 
although far be it from me to take up one system on account of 
its novelty, or to stigmatise another, because I think well to 
discontinue it. 
Mr. Gamgee very justly observes: “ How often is the 
veterinarian puzzled as to whether it is a simple case of 
colic he is attending, or if inflammation has set in?” Hence 
the prescription of oil in lieu of aloes, and the admixture of 
other ingredients of a narcotic nature. 
I believe we are too much concerned about the temporary 
pain the animal evinces than we are respecting a removal of 
the cause of it, and in this humane delay we are surprised 
at the sudden departure of our patient. 
The fear of inflammation also seems to be a means of 
prevention in the use of purgatives alone for the cure of 
colic ; and the Veterinarian does not lack of communications 
in which we are assured of the unfortunate results attendant 
upon giving a dose of physic without any preparation. 
Now in equal fairness, if we allow that various impressions 
are propagated through the entire length of the alimentary 
