/ 37 ) 
and which gives strength to the produce, and 
enhances its aromatic flavour. On most pro¬ 
perties, it had been customary, to cure the 
remnants of the crop in this way, for the use 
of the plantation ; and it has been well noticed 
by great epicures in the flavor of the decoction, 
that the Coffee thus cured, produced the strongest 
and best beverage. 
With regard to the use of Coffee as a beve¬ 
rage, it lias had its admirers and detractors. In 
the East, it 1ms been the subject of many a 
ridiculous controversy. The Turks believe that 
the infusion of Coffee was invented by the An¬ 
gel Gabriel, to restore the health of their Pro¬ 
phet, Mahomet. In Europe, it has been pro¬ 
nounced by some as injurious to health, whilst 
others talk of its virtues with enthusiasm; but. 
the extended use of this beverage in Europe 
during the last ten years is of itself sufficient 
testimony of its salutary qualities, and must 
negative the assertions of its detractors. On 
chemical analysis, it has been found to contain 
an acid or gummy substance, a resinous and 
astringent extract, a considerable proportion of 
oil, and some ammonia and other salts. The 
action of fire destroys its crude and watery 
taste, and renders the oil empyreumatie. When 
prepared for the table, it has established for 
itself, the character of aiding digestion, and 
has a marked effect on the nervous system, in 
removing langour and drowsiness, end in favor 
ing a pleasant cheerfulness, friendly to socia¬ 
lity, wit, and good humour. The Turks 
on going to batfle, or on any emergency, enT 
ploy opium to excite their spirits, and to stea_ 
dy th.ir courage,—to relieve the langour con.. 
