it will be more proper to allow it to follow its natural course, and burst spontaneously, than open it, by a large incision, or by the introduction of a seton: If we do open it, the orifice should not at first be large, but should just comprehend the diseased or whitened surface. [31] This likewise affects the system, and produces syncope, if the mechanical support be withdrawn suddenly from the parts. Sometimes, after an abscess has burst, or been opened, it continues in a progressive state of amendment for some time, and then becomes stationary, continuing to discharge matter without healing. This either takes place from the whole surface, or from a particular part of it, forming a sinus, the treatment of which will afterwards be mentioned, being the same with those which succeed abscesses which are originally unhealthy. After an abscess bursts, the proper application is a warm poultice[32], which should be continued in general as long as there is any stool, or hard margin; that is to say, until the increased quantity of diseased organic particles, which were formed during the inflammation, be absorbed, and the vessels at that part have either assumed the suppurative or natural action. After this, the orifice ought to be covered with a slip of lint, and moderate pressure applied over the surface of the abscess[33], by which the sides are kept in constant contact, and reunion is accelerated. Good diet is also necessary, for we thus increase the powers of recovery, or keep up a proper action, and renew the vital principle, the quantity of which has been lessened during the inflammation, both by the continuance of a state of overaction, and by the remedies which are employed to diminish the action; for a state of real and permanent weakness is thus induced. [32] This poultice does not require to be so hot, nor changed so frequently, as before the full formation of matter. [33] If this produces pain, we may in general conclude that it has been used too soon.