On the other hand, when the body is too open, twelve or fifteen grains of rhubarb, with half a drachm or two scruples of the Japonic confection, given every other evening, will have very good effects. In those flatulent complaints which come on about the time the _menses_ cease, repeated small bleedings often give more relief than any other remedy. With regard to diet, the Doctor observes, that tea, and likewise all flatulent aliments, are to be avoided; and that for drink, water with a little brandy or rum is not only preferable to malt liquor, but in most cases also to wine. As Dr. Whytt has paid great attention to this subject, and as his sentiments upon it in a great measure agree with mine, I have taken the liberty to adopt them; and shall only add to his observations, that exercise is in my opinion superior to all medicine, both for preventing the production and likewise for expelling of flatulencies. These effects, however, are not to be expected from sauntering about, or lolling in a carriage; but from labour, or such active amusements as give exercise to every part of the body. OF LOW SPIRITS. All who have weak nerves are subject to low spirits in a greater or less degree. Generous diet, the cold bath, exercise, and amusements, are the most likely means to remove this complaint. It is greatly increased by solitude and indulging gloomy ideas; but may often be relieved by cheerful company and sprightly amusements. When low spirits are owing to a weak relaxed state of the stomach and bowels, an infusion of the Peruvian bark with cinnamon or nutmeg will be proper. Steel joined with aromatics may likewise in this case be used with advantage; but riding, and a proper diet, are most to be depended on. When they arise from a foulness of the stomach and intestines, or obstruction in the hypochondriac viscera, aloetic purges will be proper. I have sometimes known the Harrowgate sulphur-water of service in this case. When low spirits proceed from a suppression of the menstrual or of the hæmorrhoidal flux, these evacuations may either be restored, or some others substituted in their place, as issues, setons, or the like. Dr. Whytt observes, that nothing has such sudden good effects in this case as bleeding. When low spirits have been brought on by long-continued grief, anxiety, or other distress of mind, agreeable company, variety of amusements, and change of place, especially travelling into foreign countries, will afford the most certain relief. Persons afflicted with low spirits should avoid all kinds of excess, especially of venery and strong liquors. The moderate use of wine and other strong liquors is by no means hurtful; but when taken to excess they weaken the stomach, vitiate the humours, and depress the spirits. This caution is the more necessary, as the unfortunate and melancholy often fly to strong liquors for relief, by which means they never fail to precipitate their own destruction.