Fig. 3. A view of the cross-piece F, which must be firmly fixed in one of the splints G G, but moveable in the mortise of the other, so that the splints may be taken asunder at pleasure. The following is the method of applying this apparatus. While extension and counter-extension are made by two assistants, the surgeon placing the bits of tape H on each side of the leg, secures them firmly by the roller A applied round the limb, with a proper degree of tightness. He then applies the middle of the handkerchief or roller B on the tendo Achillis, brings its ends across each other, before the leg at C, and carrying them down along each side of the foot, secures them by a knot at D. Letting go the ends of the handkerchief B, he next places on each side of the leg the splints G G, connects them at the lower end by the cross-piece F and secures them at the upper end by the tapes H. He then resumes the ends of the handkerchief B, carries them downward as seen at _a a_ and secures them by a firm knot at E round the cross-piece F. From this view and explanation of the apparatus Fig. 1, I presume its construction, application, and mode of operation will be very easily understood. It is unnecessary therefore to add, that the extension and counter-extension made on the limb, will be directly proportioned to the degree of force with which the ends _a a_ of the handkerchief B are drawn over the cross-piece F. As action and reaction, in this case, must, as in all others, be equal, the splints G G will be pushed upward by the ends of the handkerchief B with precisely the same force that is applied on these ends to draw the foot and lower fragments downward. Hence the counter-extension made above on the roller A will be exactly equal to the extension made below by the handkerchief B. I ought to have observed, that it is necessary to defend the soft parts, both above and below, from the pressure of the extending and counter-extending straps, by means of soft compresses applied next to the skin. This is particularly necessary on the instep C where the ends of the handkerchief B cross each other. It requires some attention on the part of the surgeon to prevent this spot from being excoriated, especially if it be found necessary to make a forcible extension. If the fracture be simple, a bandage of strips previously applied round the limb from the ancle to the knee is highly useful. It secures the fragments more effectually from lateral displacement, and prevents the swelling of the leg. A simple roller applied with a moderate degree of tightness round the foot, is also of service in preventing a swelling in that part, as well as in removing it if it has already occurred.