Page:Of the Gout - Stukeley - 1734.djvu/65

Rh external and an oyly application. The peculiar nature and property of the evil which affects the joints, seem'd to indicate, that it was thrust out of the habit, like an unwelcome guest; it was turn'd out of doors as far as might be, and wanted somewhat that should either lead it safe out of the purlieus of the body, or destroy it where it was; that it might not make a fresh return inwardly, to disturb the family. More particularly we may discover, that unctuous applications have been a frequent intention in arthritic remedys. Nevertheless time was not mature for the exact recipe in the case. Since I have enter'd upon this argument, I have met with many relations that I can depend upon for fact, of accidental cures by external applications. And I find, they, all consisted of volatile, unctuous substances; but none so certain, convenient, cheap, easy and well appropriate to the case, and effectual as our preparation. I mention the thing only as a confirmation of the rationale upon which I proceed and of the true intention to be regarded in the cure. And tho' before, authors have been in the right track, yet they did not persevere, as is a common case in practise. If we see not an immediate effect produc'd we change our method, and know not what it will produce. And thus no Rh