This state of overacting may also be induced in old ulcers, without any malformation of the parts below, but merely in consequence of continuance; for, after an ulcer has remained long indolent, it comes to act so imperfectly, that it naturally goes beyond its power. This may be said to be a spontaneous change, or conversion of one genus into another. We have then two varieties of this species: First, the state of overaction induced in an ulcer which was previously healthy; and this admits of two stages, the incipient and confirmed: The first sometimes consists only of one short paroxysm: The second continues for a longer time, and generally depends upon the neglect of the first attack. Second, the state of overaction induced in an ulcer which has previously been indolent; and this admits of two subdivisions, which arise from the condition of the ulcer at the time of its overacting, namely, whether it have been healing and cicatrizing, or the edges have been callus, and the action imperfect and morbid. The observations on the cure of this genus of ulcers must naturally be arranged under the different species and varieties of these ulcers. In the first variety of the first species, our object is to remove the supernumerary, or fungous granulations, and to replace them with others, which are formed more slowly, and in greater perfection. Pressure, applied in the manner already explained, is one of the most useful remedies in this variety, and ought always to be tried first. The luxuriant granulations are quickly absorbed, and the succeeding ones are rendered more compact and healthy, and the cicatrix begins to be formed. If, however, we apply pressure in this, or indeed in any sore, to such a degree as to produce its specific effect, we must counteract its irritation by cold. If we do not, this sore is frequently converted into the second variety of the second species of this genus. Caustic, and escharotics, have been sometimes applied to these sores; but they only remove a layer of granulations, without affecting the formation of the succeeding ones so much as some other remedies. Stimulating applications are more useful; for, as they act more slowly, they produce a greater influence on the action. The cuprum vitriolatum, mixed with simple ointment, in the proportion of a drachm to the ounce, is frequently serviceable; but the ung. hyd. nit. is still more useful. One drachm of this may be mixed with an ounce of hog’s lard and a scruple of camphor. Red precipitate, mixed with resinous ointment, is also often of service. The application of powdered rheubarb is recommended by Mr. Home, and is frequently of service. Lotions of port wine, solutions of white vitriol, or rose water, containing as many drops of l’eau mercurielle[61] as will make it moderately pungent, may be usefully applied before the dressing. [61] L’eau mercurielle is a solution of mercury in nitrous acid.