Two pieces of flannel should be at hand each doubled to the desired size; they are to be saturated with boiling water and wrung out dry as possible. To wring it out without scalding one’s fingers, put it inside a towel, and this may be made with a hem at the end so that a stick can be thrust through it. Wring the flannel so dry that it will not make the bed or bed clothing wet. Cover with oiled muslin a little larger than the fomentation, and over that lay some dry flannel or cotton. If the stupe is put on hot, and frequently changed, it derives or draws blood towards the skin, and is often useful in relieving spasm and pain; and the continued use of them prevents suppuration. Medicaments are sometimes added to make them more irritant or sedative; then they are not changed so often, but they must not be allowed to get cold. After the fomentations are discontinued, carefully wipe the parts dry to which they have been applied, and cover with a warm, dry flannel. I subjoin a few useful fomentations in which decoctions or medicines are used. 1. Add one ounce muriate of ammonia and two ounces spirits of camphor to 1 quart of boiling water just before dipping the flannel into it. 2. For a fomentation to the bowels, chest, &c., of a child, take 1 oz. paragoric, 1 oz. Jamaica ginger, and 4 ozs. hot water. 3. Twenty drops spirits turpentine may be sprinkled over each stupe, but be careful about blistering the skin or making a sore. 4. A decoction of chamomile flowers, hops, or conium, may be used for the fomentation instead of water. 5. Twenty drops or more of laudanum may be dropped over each stupe. This might soothe pain without causing stupor. POULTICES, like stupes, are means of applying warmth and moisture. If applied early, it is believed they may prevent the formation of pus, as they bring about a resolution of the inflammation. When suppuration has commenced they facilitate the passage of matter to the surface, and lessen the extent of the disease. When applied to an inflamed part or swelling they should extend over considerable surrounding surface, but for a suppurating wound they should be but little larger than the opening. Avoid putting them on very hot in a case of paralysis and also upon children, though they should be applied quite hot usually.