Pharmaceutical Notices. 
185 
amination. The discovery of this impurity, with that of nu- 
merous others detailed, in late numbers of the Journal, are 
powerful incentives for the adoption of the universal practice 
among those engaged in dispensing medicines, of preparing 
their own pharmaceutical materials. Those who, from igno- 
ance or neglect, or parsimony, refuse to adopt this rule, will 
inevitably fall behind in the race with their competitors, and 
pay the penalty, which the universal law of nature invariably 
inflicts, while they who pursue this course, with industry, ca- 
pacity, and a certain knowledge, that what they dispense for 
the sick is pure, and the best of its kind, will as invariably 
secure to themselves an honourable standing, and a clear 
conscience, if although a pecuniary recompense may not re- 
ward their labours. 
W. R. F. 
Baltimore, Sept. 24, 1835. 
Mercurial Ointment, — Several methods for making this valu- 
able preparation have been given in former numbers of the 
Journal of Pharmacy, but none of them appear to have ful- 
filled the desired result. The following mode unites the 
great desiderata, in the most efficient manner. A few pounds 
of mercury and pig's foot oil were introduced into an iron 
bottle, which was well closed, and attached to the frame of 
a saw, at a saw mill in full operation. After it had been sub- 
jected to the violent agitation necessarily resulting from its 
situation, for about six hours, it was removed and examined. 
The result was a well formed and homogeneous ointment, of 
good consistence and colour. 
C. D. B., Cincinnati. 
Vol. I.— No. 3. 
24 
