USE OF ST11YCHNIA IN PARALYSIS. 
667 
I am induced to think, from this case, and others which 
have come under my notice, that puerperal fever may be the 
result of prostration of nervo-muscular energy, and that the 
mode of treatment should be by exhibiting sedative and not 
stimulating agents. The latter, I know, have been given 
under the idea that the system wanted rousing. Both the 
nerves and muscular fibre are, however, unable to answer to 
stimulants, having no energy left which they can put forth. 
Sedatives then are required, that nature may restore, or 
rather replace the waste of nerve-matter and muscular fibre, 
which w ? aste I consider to be the cause of the inflammation. 
THE USE OF STRYCHNIA IN PARALYSIS. 
By J. Wood, Veterinary Student, Coleshill. 
August 18th, 1858, I was requested to attend a chestnut 
horse, the property of Mr. James Adcock, miller, who re- 
sides near this town. The horse in question was in excel- 
lent condition, twelve years old, of the light-draught breed, 
and had been in the possession of his present owner since 
he was three years old, and during the whole of this 
time he had been in good health. When about twenty- 
one yards from a public stable, he suddenly fell down 
from an attack of staggers, according to the waggoner’s 
description. He w r as got with considerable difficulty 
into the stable, and on my arrival I found the follow- 
ing symptoms to be present : Pulse a little slower 
than natural, but otherwise unaltered. Countenance not 
expressive of pain. Mucous membranes of their natural 
colour. Appetite good, To an ordinary observer there was 
little ailing the animal except his peculiar way of standing. 
When made to move he reeled with his hind quarters and 
dragged his limbs onwards. He had also scarcely any 
power to extend his fore legs, and in making the attempt 
they suddenly knuckled at every joint as if they were 
broken. In fact, it was dangerous to move him for fear 
of his falling. The limbs, however, were sensitive to the 
touch. 
Treatment. — I contented myself by administering a ca- 
thartic, and at night I applied a blister to his poll, and 
along the whole course of the spine. A sloppy bran mash 
which w 7 as offered him he ate with avidity. 
