Adulterations of Hydriodate of Potash 4*c. 
27 
ART. VII.— ON ADULTERATION OF HYDRIODATE OF 
POTASH &c. By F. & N. G. C a r n e s, New York. 
In reply to Art. LXIV, Vol. VI, page 287. 
Observing that our names have been used in the last num- 
ber of the Journal, in a paper on Hydriodate of Potash, by 
Dr. Adamson, and that it may be inferred from what is there 
stated, that we sell adulterated chemicals, we feel it due to 
ourselves to say a few words on the subject. 
That the article referred to was impure, we do not deny ; 
but the fault is not with us, but with the druggists of this and 
other cities, who will have cheap hydriodate of potash, with- 
out regard to purity. We were among the first of those who 
imported this article from Paris, years ago, when we sold it 
in its pure state, at from seventy-five to eighty-seven and a 
half cents per ounce ; a price sufficient to pay a fair profit ; 
but since that time, such has been the competition of trade, 
the influx of Frenchmen with adventures of inferior articles, 
and above all, the desire of our druggists throughout the 
country, to have cheap chemicals, that they might undersell 
each other, that we have been obliged in self defence, to im- 
port them of an inferior quality, or lose custom. 
But this is not the only article which is wanted cheap. 
Morphine, strychnine, iodine, and various other valuable sub- 
stances, which under no circumstances ought to be sold but 
in a pure state. It is not fair that we should be found fault 
with for selling impure articles, when purchasers themselves 
know that these articles cost more in Paris than they are 
willing to pay for them here. 
To conclude, if we could be supported in importing none 
but pure articles, we most certainly would never sell any 
other : but until then, we must continue to import two quali- 
ties ; one for those who want them cheap, the other for the 
fair dealer, who wants them good, and is willing to pay for 
them. 
