CHAP. I. Of the ſituation of the Town of Knaresborow.

GNaresbrugh (commonly called Knaresborow) is a very ancient Market Town in the Weſt-Riding of Yorkeſhire, diſtant 14 miles from the City of Yorke; where the Pole is elevated 54 degrees, and 20 odde minutes. On the South-weſt part thereof is that fair, and goodly Fort, ſo much renowned, both for the pleaſant ſituation, and remarkable ſtrength, known by the name of Knaresborow Castle, ſeated on a moſt ragged and rough Rock; whence (as learned Mr. Cambden ſaith) it is ſo named.

Both the Caſtle and Town are fenced on the South and Weſt parts with the Rivers N • de: which is beautified herewith two fair Bridges of ſtone, which lead from the Town into the Forreſt adjoyning, as alſo unto a larg empaled Park of his Majeſties, called Bilton-Park, well ſtored with fallow Deer: part whereof is bordered with the ſaid river.

The Town it ſelf ſtandeth on a hill, having almoſt on every ſide an aſcent to it; and about it are divers fruitfull valleys well repleniſhed with graſſe, corn and wood. The waters there are wholſome and clear; the ayre dry and pure. In brief, there is nothing wanting, that may fitly ſerve for a good and commodious habitation, and the content and entertainment of ſtrangers.

Many things are very obſervable in this place, which becauſe they rather doe appertain to the volumnes of Geographers, and Antiquaries, then to the purpoſe intended in this little treatiſe, are here omitted.

CHAP. II. Of the ſeverall earths, ſtones, and minerals, found neer and about this place.

ALthough there are in ſundry places of this kingdome, as many or more ſeveral kindes, and ſorts of earths, quarries of ſtone, minerals, and mines of mettals, then in any other Realm whatſoever; notwithſtanding, no one place hath been obſerved to have them either in ſuch plenty, or variety in ſo ſmall a diſtance as this. For here is found not onely white and yellow marble, plaiſter, oker, rud, rubrick, free-ſtone, and hard greet-ſtone, a ſoft reddiſh ſtone, iron-ſtone, brim-ſtone, vitreal, nitre, allum, lead, copper, (and without doubt, divers mixtures of theſe) but alſo many other minerals might (perhaps) be found out by the diligent ſearch, and skilfull induſtry of thoſe, who would take pains to labour a little herein.

All which doe manifeſtly demonſtrate, that nature hath ſtored this little territory with a greater diverſity of hidden benefits, then great and ſpacious Countries otherwiſe abounding in outward native commodities, and that the fountains, or ſprings of water hereabouts cannot otherwiſe then participate of their ſeveral natures and properties.

CHAP. III. Of the fountains, of pure and ſimple waters, neer and about the Town.

AS generally moſt part of the Weſt Riding of Yorkſhire (eſpecially the hilly and more mountainous places thereof) are ſtored with fountains and ſprings of clear, limpid and pure ſimple waters; ſo likewiſe the territory hereabouts is not without plenty of them. Two whereof have gotten and purchaſed that reputation, as to be Sainted: The one called by the name of Saint Magnus, or Magnus-well: the other, that of Saint Roberts.

Theſe, formerly for a year, or two, have been in great requeſt in theſe parts amongſt the common ſort, much ſought unto by many, and great concourſe of people have daily gathered and flocked to them, both near, and afarre off, as is moſt commonly ſeen, when any new thing is firſt found out, Fama enim creſcit eundo, even unto incredible wonders and miracles, or rather fictions, and lyes. All which commeth to paſſe as we may well ſuppoſe, through our over much Engliſh credulity, or as I may better ſay) rather ſuperſtition. For to any ſuch like Well, will ſwarm at firſt both young and old (eſpecially the female ſex, as ever more apt to be deluded) halt, lame, blinde, deaf, dumb, yea, almoſt all, and that for all manner of maladies and diſeaſes, both inward and outward.

But for as much, as theſe are ſprings of pure, and ſimple waters meerly, without any mixture at all of minerals, to make them become medicinable, it is verily thought, that the many and ſeveral cures, which have been attributed unto them in thoſe times, when they were ſo frequented, were rather fained and imaginary, then true and real; and that thoſe, who then viſited them, were deſirous (either to uphold and maintain the credit, and reputation of their Saints, or elſe, to avoid the ſcorn and deriſion of their own deluſion) to have others likewiſe deceived.

Time hath quite worn all their ſtrength, and conſumed all their virtues; ſo that nothing of worth now remains with them, ſaving onely their bare names and titles: Sic magna ſua mole ruunt.

Wherefore to omit theſe, as ſcarce worthy the mentioning; thoſe are chiefly here to be deſcribed, which do participate of mineral vertues, and faculties.

CHAP. IV. Of five fountains near unto the town, which do participate of mineral virtues.

OUt of the divers Fountains ſpringing hereabouts, five are worthy the obſervation of Phyſitians. The firſt whereof is very near unto the river bank, over againſt the Caſtle, called by the name of the Dropping-well, for that it droppeth, diſtilleth, and trickleth down from the hanging rock above. The water whereof hath a certain quality or property to turn any thing that lieth in it, into a ſtony ſubſtance in a very ſhort ſpace.

Three of the others (being all of them much of one, and the ſame nature) are termed by the country people thereabouts the Stinkingwels, in regard they have an ill, and fetide ſmel, conſiſting moſt of Sulphure-vive, or quick brimſtone. One of them, and that which hath the greateſt current, or ſtream of water, is in Bilton park

The other two are in the ſaid Forreſt; one is neare unto the Town; the other is further off, almoſt two miles from it, beyond a place called Haregate head, in a bottome on the right hand of it, as you go, and almoſt in the ſide of a little brook.

The fift, and laſt (for which I have principally undertaken to write this ſhort Diſcourſe) is an acide, or tart fountain in the ſaid Forreſt, commonly named by the vulgar ſort, Tuewhit-well, and the Engliſh Spaw, by thoſe of the better rank, in imitation of thoſe two moſt famous acide fountains at the Spaw in Germany, to wit, Sauuenir, and Pouhon: whereof the firſt being the prime one) is half a league from the Spa, or Spaw Village; the other is in the middle of the town.

CHAP. V. A more particular recitall of the firſt four wels.

I Purpoſe to ſpeak ſomewhat more in this place of the firſt foure Springs mentioned in the former Chapter, in regard the conſideration of them may perhaps give ſome light to thoſe, who ſhall hereafter ſearch further into the ſecrets, which nature may ſeem to afford in the Country hereabouts.

The firſt is the Dropping well, known almoſt to all who have travelled unto this place. The water whereof diſtilleth and trickleth down from the hanging Rock over it, not onely dropping wiſe, but alſo falling in many pretty little ſtreams.

This water iſſueth at firſt out of the earth, not far from the ſaid hanging Rock, and running a while in one entire current, continueth ſo, till it commeth almoſt to the brim of the crag; where being oppoſed by a damme (as it were artificial) of certain ſpongy ſtones, is afterwards divided into many ſmaller branches, and falleth from on high in manner aforeſaid.

It is therefore very like that Mr. Cambden in perſon did not ſee this fountain, but rather that he had it by relation from others; or at leaſt wiſe (if he did ſee it) that he did not mark, and duly obſerve the originall ſpringing up of the water, when in his Britannia he ſaith thus: The waters thereof ſpring not up out of the veins of the earth, &c.

Concerning the properties and qualities thereof, I have nothing more to write at this time (there being formerly little triall had of it) ſaving that divers inhabitants thereabouts ſay, and affirm, that it hath been found to be very effectuall in ſtaying any flux of the body: which thing I eaſily believe.

The other three are ſulphurous fountains, and caſt forth a ſtinking ſmell a-farre off, eſpecially in the Winter ſeaſon, and when the weather is coldeſt. They are all noiſome to ſmell to, and cold to touch, without any manifeſt or actual heat at all; by reaſon (as may moſt probably be thought) their mines and veins of brimſtone, are not kindled under the earth; being (perhaps) hindred by the mixture of ſalt therewith.

Thoſe who drink of their waters, relate, they verily think there is gun-powder in them, and that now and then they vomit after drinking thereof.

The waters as they run along the earth, do leave behind them on the graſſe and leaves, a gray ſlimy ſubſtance, which being ſet on fire, hath the right ſavour of common brimſtone. They are much haunted with Pigeons, an argument of much ſalt in them; of which in the evaporation of the water by fire, we found a good quantity remaining in the bottom of the veſſel.

One thing further was worth obſervation; that white mettall (as ſilver) dipped into them, preſently ſeemeth to reſemble copper: which we firſt noted by putting a ſilver porrenger into one of theſe; unto which Sir Francis Traps did firſt bring us. Which tincture theſe waters give by reaſon of their ſulphur.

Touching their vertues, and effects, there may in general the like properties be aſcribed unto them, as are attributed unto other ſulphurous Bathes actually cold, participating alſo of Salt.

The vulgar ſort drink theſe waters (as they ſay) to expell reef, and fellon; yea, many who are much troubled with itches, ſcabs, morphews, tetters, ring-worms, and the like, are ſoon holpen and cured, by waſhing the parts ill-affected therewith. Which thing they might much more conveniently and more commodiouſly do, if at that in Bilton park, were framed to capacious Bathes; the one cold, the other • to be made hot, or warm by art, for certain known houres a day.

CHAP. VI. A more particular deſcription of the fifth, or laſt Fountain, called the Engliſh Spaw.

THis, being the principal ſubject of this whole Treatiſe, is in the ſaid Forreſt, about half a league, or a mile and a half, Weſt from the Town; from whence there is almoſt a continuall riſing to it, but nothing ſo great as the aſcent, is from the Spaw village to the Sauvenir. This here ſpringeth out of a mountainous ground, and almoſt at the height of the aſcent, at Harcgate-head; having a great deſcent on both ſides the ridge thereof; and the Country thereabouts ſomewhat reſembleth that at the Spaw in Germany.

The firſt diſcoverer of it to have any medicinal quality (ſo far forth as I can learn) was one Mr. William Slingsby, a Gentleman of many good parts, of an ancient and worthy Family neer thereby; who having travelled in his younger t me, was throughly acquainted with the taſte, uſe, and faculties of the two Spaw Fountains.

In his latter time, about 55 years ago, it was his good Fortune to live for a little while at a Grange houſe very neer to this Fountain, and afterwards in Bilton Park all his life long. Who drinking of this water, found it in all things to agree with thoſe at the Spaw. Whereupon (greatly rejoycing at ſo good and fortunate an accident) he made ſome further trial and aſſay. That done, he cauſed the Fountain to be well and artificially walled about, and paved at the bottom, (as it is now at this day) with two fair ſtone flags, with a fit hole in the ſide thereof, for the free paſſage of the water through a little guttered ſtone.

It is open at the top, and walled ſomewhat higher than the earth, as well to keep out filth, as cattell for comming and approaching to it. It is foure ſquare, three foot wide, and the water within is about three quarters of a yard deep.

Firſt, we cauſed it to be laded dry, as well to ſcoure it, as alſo to ſee the riſing up of the water, which we found to ſpring up onely at the bottome at the chink, or cranny, between two ſtones, ſo left purpoſely for the ſpringing up of the water at the bottome: Which (as Pliny obſerveth in his 31 Book of his Natural Hiſtory, and the third chapter) is a ſigne above all of the goodneſſe of a Fountain.

And above all (ſaith he) one thing would be obſerved, and ſeen unto, that the ſource which feedeth it, ſpring and boile up directly from the bottome, and not iſſue forth at the ſides: which alſo is a main point that concerneth the perpetuity thereof, and whereby we may collect, that it will held ſtill, and be never drawn dry.

The ſtream of water which paſſeth away by the hole in the ſide thereof, is much one, and about the proportion of the current of Sauuenir.

The above-named Gentleman did drink the water of this Fountain every year after, all his life time, for helping his infirmities, and maintaing of his health, and would oftentimes ſay and aver, that it was much better, and did excell the tart fountains beyond the Seas, as being more quick and lively, and fuller of Minerall ſpirits; effecting his operation more ſpeedily, and ſooner paſſing through the Body.

Moreover, Dr. Timothy bright of happy memory, a learned Phyſitian, while he lived, my very kind freind, and familiar acquaintance, firſt gave the name of the Engl ſh Spaw unto this Fountain, about thirty years ſince or more. For he alſo formerly had ſpent ſome time at the Spaw in Germany; ſo that he was very able to compare thoſe with this of ours. Nay, he had furthermore ſo good an opinion, and ſo high a conceit of this, that he did not onely direct and adviſe others to it, but himſelf alſo (for moſt part) would uſe it in the Summer ſeaſon.

Likewiſe Dr. Anthony Hunton lately of Newark upon Trent, a Phyſitian of no leſſe worth, and happy memory (to whom for his true love to me, and kind reſpect of me, I was very much beholden) would often expoſtulate with me at our meetings, and with other Gentlemen of Yorkeſhire, his patients, how it came to paſſe, that I, and the Phyſitians of Yorke, did not by publick writing make the fame and worth thereof better known to the world?

CHAP. VII. Of the difference of this Fountain from thoſe at the Spaw, to wit, Sauuenir, and Pouhon.

THis ſpringeth almoſt at the top of the aſcent (as formerly hath been ſaid) from a dry and ſomewhat ſandy earth: The water whereof running Southeaſt, is very clear, pure, full of life, and mineral exhalations.

We find it chiefly to conſiſt of a vitrioline nature and quality, with a participation alſo of thoſe other minerals, which are ſaid to be in the Sauuenir Fountain; but in a more perfect and exquiſite mixture and temper (as we deem) and therefore to be ſuppoſed better and nobler then it. The difference between them will be found to be onely Secundum majus & minus, that is, according to more, or leſſe, which maketh no difference in kind, but in degrees. This partaketh in greater meaſure of the qualities, and leſſer of the ſubſtances of the Minerals, then that doth; and for that cauſe it is of a more quick and ſpeedy operation; as alſo for the ſame reaſon, his tenuity of body, and fulneſſe of mineral ſpirits therein contained, it cannot be ſo farre tranſported from its own ſource and ſpring, without loſſe and diminution of his ſtrength and goodneſſe. For being carried no further then to the Town it ſelf (though the glaſſe or veſſel be cloſely ſtopt) it becommeth ſomwhat weaker: if as far as to York, much more: but if 20 or 30 miles further, it will then be found to be of ſmall force or validity, as we have often obſerved.

Whereas contrariwiſe the water of the lower Fountain at the Spaw, called Pouhon, is frequently and uſually carried and conveyed into other countries afar off, and remote, as into France, England, Scotland, Ireland, and to divers parts of Germany, and unto ſome parts of Italy; Yea, and that of Sauvenir, (which is the better Fountain, and whoſe water cannot be carried ſo far away, as the other may) is oftentimes uſed now a dayes at Paris, the chief City of France.

But this of ours cannot be ſent away any whit ſo far off, without loſſe and decay of his efficacy and vertue, ſo ayrie, ſubtill, and piercing are its ſpirits and mineral exhalations, that they ſoon paſſe, vaniſh, and fly away. Which thing we have eſteemed to be a principal good ſigne of the worthy properties of this rare Fountain. So that this water, being newly taken up at the Well, and preſently after drunk, cannot otherwiſe, but ſooner paſſe by the Hypochondries, and through the body, and cauſe a ſpeedier effect, then thoſe in Germany can. Whereby any one may eaſily collect, and gather, that this getteth his ſoveraign faculties better in its paſſage by and through the variety of minerals included in the earth (which onely afford unto it an halitious body) then thoſe do.

If then we be deſirous to have this of ours become commodious either for preſerving of our healths, or for altering any diſtemper, or curing any infirmity (for which it is proper and available) it ought chiefly to be taken at the Fountain it ſelf, before the minerall ſpirits be diſſipated.

CHAP. VIII. That Vitrioll is here more predominant then any other Minerall.

WE have ſufficiently been ſatisfied by experience and trials, through what Minerals this water doth paſſe: but to know in what proportion they are exactly mixed therewith, it is beyond humane invention to finde out; Nature having reſerved this ſecret to her ſelf alone. Nevertheleſſe it may very well be conjectured, that as in the frame and compoſition of the moſt noble creature, Man (the leſſer world) there is a temper of the four elements rather ad juſtitiam (as the Phyloſophers ſay) then ad pondus; ſo Nature in the mixture of theſe Minerals, hath likewiſe taken more of ſome, and leſſe of others, as ſhe thought to be moſt fit and expedient for the good and behoof of mans health, and the recovery and reſtitution of it decayed; being indeed ſuch a work, as no Art is able to imitate.

That Vitriolum (otherwiſe called Chalcanthum) is here moſt predominant, there needs no other proof, then from the aſſay of the water it ſelf; which both in the tart and inky ſmack thereof, joyned with a piercing and a pricking quality, and in the ſavour (which is ſomwhat a little vitrioline) is altogether like unto the ancient Spaw waters: which according to the conſent of all thoſe, who have conſidered their natural compoſitions, do moſt of all, and chiefly participate of vitrioll.

Notwithſtanding for a more manifeſt, and ſuller triall hereof, put as much powder of Gals, as will lye on two-pence, or three pence, into a glaſſe full of this water, newly taken up at the fountain, you ſhall ſee it by and by turned into the right and perfect colour of Claret wine, that is fully ripe, clear, and well fined, which may eaſily deceive the eye of the skilfulleſt Vintner,

This demonſtration hath been often made, not without the admiration of thoſe, who firſt did ſee it. For the ſame quantity of galls mingled with ſo much common water, or any other Fountain water thereabouts, will not alter it any thing at all; unleſſe to theſe you alſo adde vitrioll, and then the colour will appear to be of a blewiſh violet, ſomewhat inkiſh, not reddiſh, as in the former, which hath an exquiſite and accurate conjunction of other Mineral exhalations, beſides the vitrioline. But this probation will not hold, if ſo be you make triall with the ſaid water being carried farre from the Well; by reaſon of the preſent diſſipation of his ſpirits.

CHAP. IX. Of the properties and effects of Vitrioll, according to the ancient and modern Writers.

THE qualities of Vitrioll, according to Dioſcorides, Galen, Aetius, Paulus Aegineta, and Oribaſius; are to heat and dry, to bind, to reſiſt putrefaction, to give ſtrength and vigour to the interiour parts, to kill the flat worms of the belly, to remedy venemous muſhroms, to preſerve fleſh over moiſt from corruption, conſuming the moiſture thereof by its heat, and conſtipating by his aſtriction the ſubſtance of it, and preſſing forth the ſerous humidity.

And according to Matthiolus in his Commentaries upon Diſcorides, it is very profitable againſt the plague and peſtilence, and the chymicall oyle thereof is very available (as himſelf affirmeth to have ſufficiently proved) againſt the ſtone and ſtopping of Urine, and many other outward maladies and diſeaſes, (Andernacus and Geſner adde to theſe the Apoplexy) all which, for avoiding of prolixity, I do here purpoſely omit.

Neither will I further trouble the Reader with the recitall of divers and ſundry excellent remedies, and medicines, found out and made of it in theſe latter times, by the Spagyrick Phyſitians, and others: Inſomuch that Joſeph Quercetanus, one of thoſe, is verily of opinion, that out of this individual mineral, well and exquiſitly prepared, there might be made all manner of remedies and medicines ſufficient for the ſtoring and furniſhing of a whole Apothecaries ſhop.

But it will (perhaps) be objected by ſome one or other in this manner: If vitrioll, which as moſt do hold, is hot and dry in the third degree, or beginning of the fourth, nay, of a cauſtick quality and nature (as Dioſcorides is of opinion) ſhould here be predominant; then the water of this Fountain muſt needs be of great heat and acrimony; and ſo become not onely unprofitable, but alſo very hurtfull for mans uſe to be drunk, or inwardly taken.

To which objection (not to take any advantage of the anſwer, which many learned Phyſitians do give, viz. that vitriol is not hot, but cold) I ſay: Firſt, that although all medicinall waters doe participate of thoſe minerals, by which they do paſſe, yet they have them but weakly viribus refractis (eſpecially when in their paſſages they touch, and meet with divers other minerals of oppoſite tempers and natures.

Secondly, I Anſwer, that in all ſuch medicinall Fountains as this, ſimple water doth far ſurpaſſe and exceed in quantity, whatſoever is therewith intermixed, by whoſe coldneſſe it commeth to paſſe, that the contrary is ſcarce, or hardly perceived. For example, take one proportion of any boyling liquor to 100. or more, of the ſame cold, and you will hardly find in it any heat it all. Suppoſe then vitrioll be hot in the third degree, it doth not therefore follow, that the water which hath his vertue chiefly from it, ſhould heat in the ſame degree. This is plainly manifeſt not onely in this fountain, but alſo in all others, which have an acide taſte, being indeed rather cold then hot, for the reaſons above mentioned.

CHAP. X. Of the effects which this Fountain worketh, and produceth in thoſe who drink of it.

EXperience ſheweth ſufficiently, beſides reaſon, that this water firſt, and in the beginning cooleth ſuch as uſe it: But being continued, it heateth and drieth; and this for the moſt part it doth in all, yet not alwayes. For (as we ſhall more fully declare afterwards) it effecteth cures of oppoſite, and quite contrary natures, by the ſecond and third qualities wherewith it is endowed; curing diſeaſes both hot, cold, dry, and moiſt.

Thoſe waters (ſaith Renodaeus) which are repleniſhed with a vitrioline quality, as thoſe at the Spaw, doe preſently heal, and (as it were) miraculouſly cure diſeaſes, which are without all hope of recovery; having that notable power and faculty from vitrioll; by the vertue and efficacy whereof, they paſſe through the meanders, turnings and windings of all parts of the whole body. Whatſoever is hurtfull, or endammageth it, that they ſweep and carry away: what is profitable and commodious, they touch not, nor hurt: that which is flaccid, and looſe, they bind and faſten: that which is faſtned, and ſtrictly tied, they looſe: what is too groſſe and thick; they incide, diſſolve, attenuate, and expell.

More particularly the water of this fountain hath an inciſive and abſterſive faculty to cut and looſen the viſcous and clammy humours of the body, and to make meable the groſſe: as alſo by its piercing and penetrating power, ſubtilty of parts, and by his deterging and deſiccative qualities to open all the obſtructions, or oppilations of the meſentery (from whence the ſeeds of moſt diſeaſes doe ariſe and ſpring) liver, ſpleen; kidneys, and other interiour parts (and which is more to be noted and obſerved) to coole, and contemperate their unnaturall heat, helping and removing alſo all the griefs and infirmities depending thereupon.

Beſides all this, it comforteth the ſtomack by the aſtriction it hath from other minerals, eſpecially Iron, ſo that (without doubt) of a thouſand, who ſhall uſe it diſcreetly, and with good advice (their bodies firſt being well and orderly prepared by ſome learned and skilfull Phyſitian, according to the ſtates thereof, and as their infirmities ſhall require) there will ſcarcely be any one found, who ſhall not receive great profit thereby.

Moreover, it cleanſeth, and purifieth the whole maſſe of blood contained in the veynes, by purging it from the ſereſity peccant, and from cholerick, phlegmatick, and melancholike humours, and that principally by Urine, which paſſeth through the body very clear, and in great quantity, leaving behinde it the mineral forces, and vertues.

Their ſtooles, who drink of it, are commonly of a blackiſh, or dark green colour, partly becauſe it emptieth the liver and ſpleen from aduſt humours, and melancholy, or the ſediment of blood; but more eſpecially, becauſe the minerals intermixed do produce and give ſuch a tincture.

CHAP. XI. In what diſeaſes the water of this Fountain is moſt uſefull and beneficiall.

OVer and beſides the peculiar and ſpecifical faculties, which this fountain hath, it ſheweth divers and ſundry other manifeſt effects and qualities in evacuating the noxious humours of the body, for the moſt by Urine, eſpecially when there is any obſtruction about the kidneyes, ureters and bladder: Or by Urine and ſtoole both, if the meſentery, liver, or ſpleen, chance to be obſtructed. But, if the effect or grief be in the matrix or womb, then it cleanſeth that way according to the accuſtomed and uſuall manner of women.

In melancholly people it purgeth by provoking the haemorrhoides, and in cholerick by ſiege or ſtool. If it cauſeth either vomit or ſweat, it is very ſeldom & rare.

See here a moſt admirable work guided by the omnipotency and wiſdome of the Almighty, that a naturall, clear, and pure water, ſhould produce ſo many and ſeverall effects and operations, being all of them in a manner contrary one to another, which few medicines compoſed by Art can eaſily perform without hurt and dammage to the party. Wherefore being drunk with thoſe cautions and circumſtances neceſſarily required thereunto, it is to be preferred before many other remedies, as not onely procuring theſe evacuations; but alſo (which is more to be noted) ſtaying them when they grow ro any exceſſe. For ſeeing that here are minerals contained booh hot, cold, dry, appercive, aſtringent, &c. there is none ſo ſimple, but muſt needs think and grant, that it cannot otherwiſe be, but good and wholſome in grievances and diſeaſes, which in their own natures are oppoſite:

But I may inſtance in ſome few, for which it is good and profitable, and therein obſerve ſome order and method; It dryeth the over moiſt brain, and helpeth the evils proceeding there from, as rhumes, catarhs, palſies, cramps, &c.

It is alſo good and available aginſt inveterate headaches, megrims, turnings and ſwimmings of the head and brain, dizzineſſe, epilepſie, or falling ſickneſſe and the like cold and moiſt diſeaſes of the head.

It cheareth and reviveth the ſpirits, ſtrengtheneth the ſtomack, cauſeth a good and quick appetite, and furthereth digeſtion.

It helpeth the black and yellow Jaundies, and the evil which is accompanied with ſtrange fear and exceſſive ſadnes, without any evident occaſion or neceſſary cauſe, called Melancholia or Hypocondr aca. Likewiſe the cachexy, or evil habit of the body, and the dropſie in the beginning thereof, before it be too far gone. For beſides that it openeth obſtructions, expelleth the redundant water in the belly, and contemperateth the unnaturall heat of the Liver.

It cooleth the Kidneys or Reins, and drive forth ſand, gravel, and ſtones out of them, and alſo hindereth the encreaſe or breeding of any new, by the concretion and ſandering of gravel, bred of a viſcous and clammy humor or ſubſtance, the ſame it performeth to the bladder for which it is alſo beneficiall, if it chance to have any evil diſpoſition either in the cavity thereof, or in the neck of it, and ſhutting muſcle called Sphincter, whereby the whole part or member, is let and hindered in his office and function.

Moreover if there chance to be any ulcer in the parts laſt ſpecified, or any ſore, or fiſtula in perinao through an impoſtume ill cured, this water is a good remedy for it in regard of its cleanſing, cicatricing and conſtringing power and vertue; and for that cauſe it is very proper & commodious for the acrimony and ſharpnes of Urine, and againſt the ſtopping and ſuppreſſion of Urine, difficulty of making water, and the ſtrangury.

Although it is very available againſt the ſtone in the Kidneys, and againſt the breeding and increaſe of any new there; yea and againſt little ones, that are looſe in the bladder; yet notwithſtanding it will afford little or ſmall benefit to thoſe, in whom it is grown to be very great and big in the bladder: becauſe nothing will then ſerve to break it, as Braſſavolus ſaith, but a ſmiths anvil and hammar. Nevertheleſſe, if in this caſe inciſion be uſed, it will be very commodious, both for mundifying and conſolidating of the wound, made for the extraction of it.

It ſhall not be needfull to ſpeak much of the profit, which will enſue by the fit adminiſtration of it in the inveterate venereous Gonorrhaea cauſing to ceaſe and ſtay totally, and correcting the diſtemper, and the ulcerous diſpoſition of the ſeed veſſels, and the vicine parts.

There are very few infirmities properly incident to women, which this water may not ſeem to reſpect much. The uſe whereof, after the advice and councel had of the learned Phyſitian, for the well and orderly preparing their bodies, is ſingular good againſt the green ſickneſſe, and alſo very commodious and behovefull to procure their monethly evacuations, as alſo to ſtay their over much ſlowing; as well to correct, as to ſtay their white floods; as well to dry the womb being too moiſt, as to heat it being too cold, through which cauſes and diſtempers conception (for the moſt part) is let and hindered in cold Northern Countries, as England and the like. For by the help of it theſe diſtempers are changed and altered, the ſuperfluous humidities and mucoſities are taken away, the part is corroborated, and the retentive vertue is ſtrengthned.

This hath been ſo much, and ſo often obſerved at the ancient Spaw, that it cannot otherwiſe, but be alſo verified at this in after times, when it ſhall be frequented (as thoſe have been) with the company of Ladies, and Gentlewomen: Divers whereof, having been formerly barren for the ſpace of ten, twelve years, or more, and drinking of thoſe waters for curing and helping ſome other infirmities, then for want of fruitfulneſſe, have ſhortly conceived after their return home to their husbands, beyond their hopes and expectations.

Beſides all this, it is good for thoſe women, who, though otherwiſe apt enough to conceive, yet by reaſon of the too much lubricity of their wombs, are prone to miſcarry and abort, if before conception they ſhall uſe it with thoſe cautions and directions requiſite.

Alſo it reſpecteth very much the hard ſcirrhous and cancarous tumours, and the grievous ſoars and dangerous Ulcers of the matrix. All theſe excellent helps and many more it performeth to women with more ſpeedy ucceſſe, if it be alſo received by injection. But here by the way, all ſuch women, who are with child, are to be admoniſhed, that they forbear to uſe it during that time.

In children it killeth and expelleth the worms of the guts and belly, and letteth and hindreth the breeding, and new encreaſe of any more.

I will here forbear to write any thing of the benefits which it affordeth againſt old and inveterate itches, mohphews, leproſies, &c. in regard the other three ſulphurous fountains, before mentioned, do more properly reſpect ſuch like grievances. Neither will I now ſpend any more time in ſhewing what vertues it hath in the cure of the Indian, commonly called the French, or rather Spaniſh diſeaſe: becauſe experience hath found out a more certain and ſure remedy againſt it.

CHAP. XII. Of the neceſſity of preparing the body before the uſe of this water.

IT is not in moſt things the bare and naked knowledge or contemplation of them, that makes them profitable to us; but rather their right uſe, opportune, and fit adminiſtration. Medicines are not ſaid to be Deorum Manus, that is, the hands of the Gods, as Herophilus calleth them, or Deorum dona; that is, the gifts of the Gods (as Hippocrates believed) till they be fitly applyed and ſeaſonably adminiſtred by the counſel and advice of the learned and skilfull Phyſitian, according to the true rules, and method of Art.

Temporibus medicina valet, data, tempore proſunt, Et data non apto tempore vina nocent.

That is,

Medicines availe in their due times, And profit is got by drinking wines. In timely ſort; but all in reaſon. They do offend, drunk out of ſeaſon.

Therefore to know the originall minerals, faculties, and vertues of this worthy acide fountain, will be to no end, or to ſmall purpoſe for them, who underſtand not the right and true uſe, nor the fit and orderly adminiſtration of it. For not onely Phyſick or medicines, but alſo meats, and drinks taken diſorderly, out of due time and without meaſure, bringeth oftentimes detriment to the party, who otherwiſe might receive comfort and ſtrength thereby: So likewiſe this water, if it be not drunk at a convenient time and ſeaſon, in due faſhion and proportion: yea, and that after preparatives, and requiſite purgings, and evacuation of the body, may eaſily hurt thoſe, whoſe infirmities otherwiſe it doth principally reſpect. For medicines ought not to be taken raſhly and unadviſely, as moſt do hand over head without any conſideration of time, place, and other circumſtances; as that ignorant man did, who getting the receit of that medicine, wherewith formerly he had been cured, made trial of it again long after for the ſame infirmity without any help or good at all; whereat greatly marvelling, received this anſwer from his Phyſitian: I confeſſe (ſaid he) it was the ſelf ſame medicine but becauſe I did not give it, therefore it did you no good.

To the end therefore that no occaſion may hereafter be either given or taken by the miſgovernment, or over-raſhneſſe of any in uſing it to calumniate and traduce the worth, and goodneſſe of this fountain, I will briefly here ſhew what courſe is chiefly to be followed and obſerved by thoſe who ſhall ſtand in need of it.

Firſt then, becauſe very few men are throughly and ſufficiently informed concerning the natures and cauſes of their grievances, it will be neceſſary that every one ſhould apply himſelf to ſome one or other, who either out of his judgement or experience, or both, may truly be able to give him counſell and good advice concernning the conveniency of this fountain. And if he ſhall be adviſed to uſe it, then let the party (in the fear of God) addreſſe himſelf for his way to it, againſt the fit ſeaſon of it, without making any long and tedious daies journeys, which cauſe laſſitude, and wearineſſe.

Then, being come to the place, he ought after a dayes reſt, or two, to have his body well prepared, and gently cleanſed with eaſie lenitives, or purgatives, both fit and appropriate, as well to the habite and conſtitution thereof, as alſo for the diſeaſe it ſelf, and as occaſion ſhall require, according to the rule of method, which teacheth that univerſal or general remedies ought ever to precede and go before particulars. Now what theſe are in ſpeciall, to fit every ones caſe in particular, is impoſſible either for me here, or any elſe to define preciſely. Ars non verſatur circa individua. We may ſee it true in mechanical trades. No one Shoomaker can fit all by one Laſt: nor any one Taylor can ſuit all by one, and the ſelf ſame meaſure.

Yet in regard it may perhaps be expected that ſomething ſhould be ſaid herein, I ſay, that in the beginning (if occaſion ſerve) ſome eaſie Clyſter may very fitly be given, as well for emptying the lower inteſtines from their uſuall excrements, as for carrying away and cleanſing the mucoſe ſlimes contained therein. After that, it will be convenient to prepare the body by ſome Julep or Apozeme, or to give ſome lenitive medicine to free the firſt region of the body from excrements. For otherwiſe the water might peradventure convey ſome part of them, or other peccant matter, which it findeth in his paſſage either into the bladder, or to ſome other weak and infirm member of the body, to the increaſe of that evill diſpoſition, which is to be removed, or elſe to the breeding of ſome other new infirmity.

Some perhaps will here object and ſay, that the time of the year, in which this fountain will be found to be moſt uſefull, will be the hotteſt ſeaſon thereof; or (if you liſt ſo to call it) the dog-days, when it will be no fit time to purge at all.

To this I anſwer and ſay: Firſt, the purging medicines here required are not ſtrong, and generous, but gentle, mild and weak, ſuch as are ſtyled Benedicta medicamenta: which may with great ſafety and profit be given either then or at any other time of the year without any danger, or reſpect of any ſuch like circumſtance at all.

Secondly I anſwer; although this obſervation of the Dogdayes might perhaps be of ſome moment in hotter Countries, as Greece where Hippocrates lived, who firſt made mention of thoſe dayes: yet in colder climates, as England, and ſuch like Countries, they are of little or ſmall force at all and almoſt not to be regarded any whit, either in uſing mild and temperate purgatives, or almoſt in any other; or in blood-letting, though very many, or moſt do erroniouſly ſay and think the contrary. So that (if there be cauſe) they may as well and ſafely then purge, as at any other time: Or if occaſion ſhall urge, as in plethoricall bodies, and many other caſes, a vein may ſafely (or rather moſt commodiouſly) be then opened, and ſo much blood taken away, as the skilfull Phyſician ſhall think in his diſcretion and wiſdom to be needful and requiſite.

Let no man here think that this is any ſtrange poſition or a new paradox (for the learned know the contrary) or that I am ſtudious of innovation, but rather deſirous to root out an old and inveterate error, which in all probability hath coſt moe Engliſh mens lives, than would furniſh a royall army, in neglecting thoſe two greater helps or remedies, to wit Purging and Blood-letting in hot ſeaſons of the year; which in all likelihood might have ſaved many of their lives, while expecting more temperate weather, they have been ſummoned in the mean time, or interim, by the meſſenger of pale death to appear in another world.

Wherefore let all thoſe who are yet living, be admoniſhed hereafter by their examples, not obſtinately and wilfully to eſchew and ſhun theſe two remedies in hot ſeaſons, and in the time of the Dog-dayes, (much leſſe all other manner of Phyſicall helps) not once knowing ſo much as why, or wherefore, and without any reaſon at all, following blind and ſuperſtitious tradition and error, haply firſt broached by ſome unworthy and ignorant Phyſician, not rightly underſtannding Hippocrates his ſaying in all likelyhood, or at leaſt wiſe miſapplying it: which hath ſo prevailed in theſe times, that it hath not onely worn out the uſe of purging, but alſo of all other Phyſick for that ſeaſon, becauſe moſt people by the name of Phyſick, underſtand purging onely, and nothing elſe; as though the Art and Science of Phyſick was nothing elſe, but to give a potion, or purge. Then we rightly and truly might ſay, Filia devoravit matrem.

But foraſmuch as moſt people are altogether ignorant of the true ground or reaſon, from whence this ſo dangerous an error concerning the Dog-dayes, did firſt ſpring and ariſe, give me leave a little to go on with this my digreſſion, for their better inſtruction and ſatisfaction; and I will briefly and in few lines, ſhew the caſe and miſtake ſomewhat more plainly.

Hippocrates in his fourth Book of Aphoriſmes, the fifth, hath theſe words: Sub canicula, & ante caniculam, difficiles ſunt purgationes. That is, under the canicular, or Dogſtar, and before the Dog-ſtar purgations are painfull and difficil. This is all that is there ſaid of them, or brought againſt them for that ſeaſon or time of the year. A great ſtumbling block againſt which many have daſhed their feet and knockt their ſhins, and a feafull ſcar crow, whereat too many have nicely boggled. Here you do not find or ſee purging medicines to be then prohibited, or forbidden to be given at all (much leſſe all other Phyſick) but onely ſaid to be difficil in their working partly becauſe (as all expoſitors agree) nature is then ſomewhat enfeebled by the heat of the weather; partly becauſe the humours being then, as it were, accended, are more chaffed by the heat of the purging medicines; partly, and laſtly, becauſe two contrary motions ſeem then to be at one and the ſame time, which may offend nature; as the great heat of the weather leading the humours of the body outwardly to the circumference thereof, and the medicine drawing them inwardly to the center. All which circumſtances in our cold region are litle, or nothing at all (as formerly hath been mentioned) to be regarded. For as Jacobus Hollerius, a French Phyſitian, much honoured for his great learning and judgment, hath very well obſerved in his Comment upon this Aphoriſme; Hippocrates ſpeaketh here onely of thoſe purging medicines which are ſtrong and vehement, or hot and fiery; and that this precept is to take place in moſt hot Regions, but not in theſe cold Countries, as France, England and the like.

Over and beſide all this, thoſe churliſh hot purging medicines, which were then in frequent uſe in Hippocrates time, and ſome hundred years after, are now for the moſt part obſolete, and quite grown out of uſe, ſeldome brought in practice by Phyſitians in theſe dayes; becauſe we have within theſe laſt ſix hundred years, great choice and variety of more milde, benigne, and gentle purgatives found out by the Arabian Phyſitians, which were altogether unknown unto the Antients, to wit, Hippocrates, Dioſcorides, Galen, &c. which have little heat and acrimony, many whereof are temperate, and divers cooling, which may moſt ſafely be given either in the hotteſt times and ſeaſons of the year, or in the hotteſt diſeaſes. Let us adde to theſe the like familiar and gentle purging medicines more lately, yea almoſt daily newly found out ſince the better diſcoveries of the Eaſt and Weſt Indies. So that henceforth let no man fear to take either eaſie purgatives, or other inward Phyſick, in the time of Canicular or Dog-dayes.

The ſame Hollerius goeth on in the expoſition and interpretation of the ſame Aphoriſme, and confidently ſaith: Over and beſides that we have benigne medicines, which we may then uſe, as Caſſia, &c. We know and find by experience, no time here with us more wholeſome and more temperate (eſpecially when the Eteſian or Eaſterly windes do blow) then the Canicular dayes, ſo that we finde by obſervation, that thoſe diſeaſes which are bred in the moneths of June and July, do end in Auguſt, and in the Canicular dayes. Wherefore if a diſeaſe happen in thoſe dayes, we fear not to open a vein divers times, and often, as alſo to preſcribe more ſtrong purging medicines.

Wherefore away hence forth with the ſcrupulous conceit, and too nice fear of the Dog-dayes, and let their ſuppoſed danger be had no more in remembrance among us. And if any will yet remain obſtinate, and ſtill refuſe to have their beams pulled out of their eyes, let them ſtill be blinde in the midſt of the clear Sunſhine, and groap on after darkneſſe: and let all learned Phyſitians rather pitty their follies, then envy their wits.

CHAP. XIII. At what time of the year, and at what houre of the day it is moſt fit and meet to drink this water.

TO ſpeak in generall terms, it is a fit time to drink it, when the ayre is pure, clear, hot and dry: for then the water is more tart, and more eaſily digeſted, then at other times. On the contrary, it is beſt to forbear, when the ayre is cold, moiſt, dark, dull and miſty: for then it is more feeble, and harder to be concocted.

But more ſpecially, the moſt proper ſeaſon to undertake this our Engliſh Spaw diet, will be from the middeſt or latter end of June, to the middle of September, or longer, according as the ſeaſon of the year ſhall fall out to be hot and dry, or otherwiſe.

Not that in the Spring time, and in Winter it is not alſo good, but for that the ayre being more pure in Summer, the water alſo muſt needs be of greater force and power. Notwithſtanding it may ſometime ſo happen in Summer, that by reaſon of ſome extraordinary falling of rain, there may be a ceſſation from it a day or two. Or if it chance to have rained over night, it will then be fit and neceſſary to refrain from drinking of it, untill the rain be paſſed away again: or elſe (which I like better) the Fountain laded dry, and filled again, which may well be done in an houre, or two at the moſt.

Touching the time of the day when it is beſt to drink this water, queſtionleſſe the moſt convenient hour will be in the morning, when the party is empty and faſting about ſeven a clock: Nature having firſt diſcharged her ſelf of daily excrements both by ſtoole and Urine, and the concoctions perfected. This time is likewiſe fitteſt for exerciſe, which is a great good help, and furtherance for the better diſtribution of the water, whereby it doth produce its effects more ſpeedily.

CHAP. XIV. Of the manner of drinking this water, and the quantity thereof.

THoſe who deſire the benefit of this Fountain, ought to go to it ſomewhat early in the morning; and, if they be able and ſtrong of body, they may doe very well to walk to it on foot, or at leaſt wiſe ſome part of the way. Such as have weak and feeble legs, may ride on horſe-back, or be carried in the Coaches, or born in Chairs. As for thoſe whoſe infirmities cauſe them to keep their Beds or Chambers, they may drink the water in their lodgings, it being ſpeedily brought to them in a veſſel or glaſſe well ſtopt.

It is not my meaning or purpoſe to deſcribe here particularly what quantity of it is fit and meet for every one to drink: for this is part of the task and office which belongeth to the Phyſitian, who ſhall be of counſell with the Patient in preparing and well ordering of him: who is to conſider all the ſeverall circumſtances, as well of the malady or diſeaſe it ſelf, as of his habit and conſtitution, &c. Nevertheleſſe I may adviſe, that at the firſt it be moderately taken, increaſing the quantity, daily by degrees, untill they ſhall come at laſt to the full height of the proportion appointed, and thought to be meet and neceſſary. There they are then to ſtay, and ſo to continue at that quantity, ſo long as it ſhall be needfull. For example, the firſt morning may happily be ſixteen or eighteen ounces, and ſo on by degrees to 20, 30, 40, 50, 60. or more, in people who are of good and ſtrong conſtitutions. Towards the ending the abatement ought likewiſe to be made by degrees, as the increment was formerly made by little and little.

Here by the way every one muſt be admoniſhed to take notice, that it is not alwayes beſt to drink moſt, leſt they chance to oppreſſe and overcharge nature, that would rather be content with leſſe. It will therefore be more ſafe, to take it rather ſomewhat ſparingly, though for a longer time, then liberally and for a ſhort time. But, indeed, the trueſt and juſteſt proportion of it, is ever to be made and eſteemed, by the good and laudable concoction of it, and by the due and orderly voiding of it again.

It will not be here amiſſe to adde this one obſervation further: That it is better to drink this water once a day, then twice, and that in the mornings, after that the Sun hath dried up, and conſumed the vapours retained through the coldneſſe of the night, &c. as is formerly declared. After drinking it, it will be needfull to abſtain from meat and other drink for the ſpace of three or four hours.

But if any one, who hath a good ſtomack, ſhall be deſirous to take it twice a day; or if any ſhall be neceſſarily compelled ſo to doe for ſome urgent cauſe, by the approbation of his Phyſitian, let him dine ſomewhat ſparingly, and drink it not again, untill five hours after dinner be paſt, or not untill the concoction of meat and drink in the ſtomack be perfected: Obſerving likewiſe, that he content himſelf in the afternoons with almoſt half the quantity he uſeth to take in the mornings.

CHAP. XV. Of the manner of dyet to be obſerved by thoſe, who ſhall uſe this water.

THe regiment of life in meats and drinks, ought chiefly to conſiſt in the right and moderate uſe of thoſe, which are of light and eaſie digeſtion, and of good and wholeſome nouriſhment, breeding laudable juyce. Therefore all thoſe are to be avoided, which beget crud and ill humours. There ought furthermore ſpeciall notice to be taken, that great diverſity of meats and diſhes at one meal is very hurtfull, as alſo much condiments, ſauces, ſpice, fat, &c. in their dreſſing and cookery.

I commend hens, capons, pullets, chickens, partridge, pheſants, turkies, and generally all ſuch ſmall birds, as live in woods, hedges, and mountains. Likewiſe I doe approve of veal, mutton, kid, lamb, rabbets, young hare or ſeverits, &c. All which (for the moſt part) are rather to be roaſted then boyled. Nevertheleſſe thoſe, who are affected with any dry diſtemper, or thoſe, who otherwiſe are ſo accuſtomed to feed, may have their meats ſodden, but the plainer dreſſing the better.

I diſcommend all ſalt meats, beef, bacon, pork, lard, and larded meats, hare, veniſon, tripes, and the entrails of beaſts, puddings made with blood, pig, gooſe, ſwan, teal, mallard, and ſuch like; and in generall all water-fowle, as being of hard digeſtion and ill nutriment.

Amongſt the ſeveral kinds of fiſhes, trouts pearches, loaches, and for moſt part, all ſcaly fiſh of brooks, and freſh rivers may well be permitted. Moreover ſmelts, ſoals, dabs, whitings ſturbuts, gurnets, and all ſuch other, as are well known not to be ill, or unwholeſome to feed on. All which may be altered with mint, hyſſop, aniſe, &c. Alſo cre-fiſhes, crab-fiſh, lobſters, and the like, may be permitted.

Conger, ſalmon, eels, lampries, herrings, ſalt-ling, all ſalt fiſh, ſturgion, anchovies, oyſters, cockles, muſcles, and the like ſhel-fiſh are to be diſallowed.

White-meats, as milk, cruds, cream, old cheeſe, cuſtards, white-pots, pudding-pies, and other like milk-meats, (except ſweet butter, and new cream cheeſe) are to be forbidden. Soft and reer eggs we do not prohibit.

Raiſons with almonds, bisket-bread, marchpane-ſtuff, ſuckets, and the like, are not here forbidden to be eaten.

Let their bread be made of wheat, very well wrought fermented or leavened; and let their drink be bear well boyled and brewed; and let it be ſtale, or old enough, but in no wiſe tart, ſharp, or ſower: And above all, let them forbear to mix the water of the fountain with their drink at meals; for that may cauſe many inconveniences to follow and enſue.

Let me advice them to eſchew Apples, Pears, Plumbs Codlings, Gooſeberries, and all ſuch like ſommer fruits, either raw, in tarts, or otherwiſe: Alſo peaſe, and all other pulſe; all cold ſallets, and raw hearbs; onions, leeks, chives, cabbage or coleworts, pompons, cucumbers, and the like.

In ſtead of cheeſe at the end of meals, it will not be amiſſe to eat citron, or lemon pils condited, or elſe fennel, anniſe, coriander comfits, or biskets and carawayes, as well for to diſcuſſe and expell winde, as to ſhut and cloſe the ſtomack, for the better furthering the digeſtion of meats and drinks. And for that purpoſe, it would be much better, if the Phyſitian, who is of counſell, ſhould appoint and ordain ſome fit and proper Tragea in groſſe powder mixed with ſugar, or elſe made into little cakes or morſels. Likewiſe marmalade of quinces either ſimple or compound, (ſuch as the Phyſitians do often preſcribe to their patients) may be uſed very commodiouſly.

After dinner they ought to uſe no violent exerciſe, neither ought they to ſit ſtill, ſadly, heavy and muſing, nor to ſlumber and ſſeep; but rather to ſtir a little, and to raiſe up the ſpirits for an hour or two, by ſome fit recreation. After ſupper they may take a walk into the fields, or Caſtle yard.

CHAP. XVI. Of the Symptomes or accidents, which may now and then chance to happen to ſome one or other in the uſe of this water.

ALthough thoſe who are of good and ſtrong conſtitutions, obſerving the aforenamed direction, do ſeldome or never receive any harm, or detriment by drinking this water: notwithſtanding it may ſometime ſo fall forth, that ſome of the weaker ſort may perhaps obſerve ſome little, or ſmall inconvenience thereby, as retention of it in the body: inflation of the belley: coſtiveneſſe, and the like. Wherefore to gratifie thoſe, a word or two of every one ſhall ſuffice.

1. Then, for to cauſe a more ready and ſpeedy paſſage of it by Urine, it will not be amiſſe to counſel the party after his return to his lodging, to go to his naked bed for an hour or two, that thereby warmneſs and natural heat may be brought into each part of the body, the paſſages more opened, and nature by that means made more fit and apt for the expulſion of it. During which time it will be very requiſite to apply hot cloaths to the ſtomack: but not ſo as to provoke ſweat. Or elſe, to cauſe it to void and evacuate either by urine, ſtool, or ſweat, exerciſe will be a good help and furtherance; if the party be fit for it. But if neither of theſe will prevail, then a ſharp glyſter ought to be adminiſtred.

The inflation or ſwelling of the belly hapneth principally to thoſe, who have ſeeble and weak ſtomacks; who may do very well to eat anniſe, fenel, or corriander comfits at the fountain between every draught, and to walk a little after; or elſe ſome carminative Lozenges, made with groſſepowders, ſpices and ſeeds for breaking of wind: or what other thing the learned Phyſitian ſhall deem to be moſt fit and proper in his wiſdome and judgment. But if the inflation chance to be very great, then a carminative glyſter muſt be ordained.

Such as ſhall be very coſtive may doe well to eat moiſtning meats, and to uſe mollifying hearbs, raiſons ſtoned, corants, damaſcene prunes, butter, or the yolks of eggs, and the like in their broths, or pottage. If theſe will not be ſufficient, then let a day be ſpared from drinking the water, and let the party take ſome lenitive medicine, laxative corants, or ſome ſuch like thing; whereof the Phyſitian hath ever great choice and variety, wherewith he can fit directly every one his caſe; to whom preſent recourſe ever ought to be had, when any of theſe, or the like accidents do happen, as likewiſe in all other caſes of waight and moment.