If the vomica or imposthume should discharge itself into the cavity of the breast, betwixt the pleura and the lungs, there is no way of getting the matter out but by an incision, as has already been observed. As this operation must always be performed by a surgeon, it is not necessary here to describe it. We shall only add, that it is not so dreadful as people are apt to imagine, and that it is the only chance the patient in this case has for his life. A nervous consumption is a wasting or decay of the whole body, without any considerable degree of fever, cough, or difficulty of breathing. It is attended with indigestion, weakness, and want of appetite, &c. Those who are of a fretful temper, who indulge in spirituous liquors, or who breathe an unwholesome air, are most liable to this disease. We would chiefly recommend, for the cure of a nervous consumption, a light and nourishing diet, plenty of exercise in a free open air, and the use of such bitters as brace and strengthen the stomach; as the Peruvian bark, gentian root, camomile, horehound, &c. These may be infused in water or wine, and a glass of it drank frequently. It will greatly assist the digestion, and promote the cure of this disease, to take twice-a-day twenty or thirty drops of the elixir of vitriol in a glass of wine or water. The chalybeate wine is likewise an excellent medicine in this case. It strengthens the solids, and powerfully assists Nature in the preparation of good blood[77]. Agreeable amusements, cheerful company, and riding about, are however preferable to all medicines in this disease. For which reason, when the patient can afford it, we would recommend a long journey of pleasure, as the most likely means to restore his health. What is called a _symptomatic consumption_ cannot be cured without first removing the disease by which it is occasioned. Thus, when a consumption proceeds from, the scrophula or king’s evil, from the scurvy, the asthma, the venereal disease, &c. a due attention must be paid to the malady from whence it arises, and the regimen and medicine directed accordingly. When _excessive evacuations_ of any kind occasion a consumption, they must not only be restrained, but the patient’s strength must be restored by gentle exercise, nourishing diet, and generous cordials. Young and delicate mothers often fall into consumptions, by giving suck too long. As soon as they perceive their strength and appetite begin to fail, they ought immediately to wean the child, or provide another nurse, otherwise they cannot expect a cure.