278 SPUNK. 
In Germany, and in some parts of England, this 
fungus is used as tinder, for which, on account of its 
readily catching fire, it is well adapted. It is prepared 
by being boiled in a strong ley, dried, and again boiled 
in a solution of salt-petre. In Franconia pieces of the 
inner substance of the spunk are beaten so as to resem- 
ble leather, and are sewed together for making gar- 
ments. The inhabitants of Lapland frequently burn it 
about their cottages, to keep oft" a species of gad-fly 
which is peculiarly injurious to the young rein- deer. 
This fungus is often employed as a styptic for the 
stopping of blood. When intended for this use^ the 
exterior hard substance is pared off, and the coat un- 
derneath is separated from the porous part, and well 
beaten with a hammer, until it becomes pliable. Thus 
prepared it is kept dry, in slices of convenient size, 
for use ; and, although it is not so much esteemed in 
this country as it was some years ago, many of the 
continental surgeons have a very high opinion of its 
efficacy. 
