Page:Of the Gout - Stukeley - 1734.djvu/75

Rh quick subduing of the poyson is not so weakned in texture, but it can resist an insult of the humor. Hence there is somewhat of the appearance of a repelling quality in the Oyls but 'tis not so in reality. Thus we observe nature's method in the case. In a fitt where there is not an extraordinary quantity of matter, it seizes upon the great toe-joint as usual. Upon unction we find the whole instep swells. This is not owing to the unction, but to the poyson whose nature is to swell the part, as is too notorious. And in every operation of the oyls, the joint (especially if the patient has been frequently handled) generally swells as much as ordinarily. This does not depreciate the efficacy of the oyls, but magnify their virtue, that can subdue so great an evil; first by taking off the violence of the pain, next in extinguishing the poyson, upon which the swelling immediately returns to its pristine state and strength, with surprizing expedition. All the joints of the tarsus that were much swell'd and inflam'd, because the poyson was actually introduc'd upon them, suddenly recover their tone again as soon as the antidote can possibly operate. You must remember in this and all cases of the gout and rheumatism to pursue it with the oyls, and you find a speedy and prefect cure. In