In this genus of ulcers, the bottom of the sore seems to be paved with a number of small fleshy points, with minute interstices betwixt them, or surrounding their bases. These are of a red colour, with a slight shade of the purple, and are wet with a yellowish fluid, which is called pus; but which must of necessity differ from the fluid yielded by suppuration. This separates freely from the surface, when it is wiped or touched with a sponge, and then the granulations may be distinctly observed[47]. The margins are smooth, thin, and a very little rounded, that is to say, are almost imperceptibly raised above the granulations, a circumstance which is essential to this ulcer, because, were they both on the same level, it would show, that the cicatrizing process did not go on properly; for, whenever the granulations rise to the level of the surface, they ought instantly to form skin. This cicatrix, which extends gradually from the circumference to the centre, is of a pale red colour; but the integuments immediately beyond it are white, and of the natural appearance. Sometimes, from a slight deviation or imperfection, one spot of the disk rises to the level sooner than the rest; but, in this case, it immediately skins, and the cicatrix extends from this in the same way as from the circumference, until they both meet. The sore is free from pain, the only sensation being a slight degree of smarting, or itchiness. [47] Whenever the discharge does not separate completely from the surface, when it is wiped, but part of it remains, like a film, or jelly, betwixt the granulations, or on particular spots, we may be sure that the action is not healthy. The treatment of this ulcer is very simple; for, in most cases, it is only essentially necessary that we prevent the operation of hurtful causes. We defend the part, by covering it with a soft pledget of lint, and keep it warm. When the cicatrization has commenced, it may be assisted by using an ointment containing any harmless powder, in such a proportion as to form a paste or scab upon the part[48], by which we afford an artificial covering, which remains in close contact with the granulations; and, by thus bringing them nearly into the same circumstances as when skin is formed, the cicatrizing action is accelerated. The same effect is sometimes produced, by allowing the pus to form a scab over superficial sores, by exposing them to the air, without any covering. [48] Simple ointment, rubbed up with a fourth part of its weight of finely levigated calamine, or flowers of zinc, makes a useful application. Mr. Bell recommends, amongst other remedies, a saturnine ointment; but, if this produces any specific operation, it must be a hurtful one, injuring the action. Dry lint is a very useful application; but, as it is apt to stick to the granulations, and tear them, when tender, it ought always to be well moistened before removal, which should be attempted slowly.