The author was once prepossessed in favor of iodide of potassium for the cure of diabetes. He is indebted to Mr. Woodger, the excellent practical veterinary surgeon of Paddington, for a knowledge of the very superior efficacy of the drug just named. It exercises a potent action over the kidneys, at the same time it is a first class tonic, and in a surprising manner reduces the desire for fluids. It is in all respects the exact medicine which could be wished for in a case of =diabetes insipidus=. ALBUMINOUS URINE. Two cases of this description occurred in the extensive practice of the late William Percivall, Esq. They are narrated in the admirable work entitled "Hippopathology," bequeathed to posterity by the estimable author. The present writer having been honored by the friendship of the gentleman named, is, from frequent conversations upon the subject, the better able to describe and to depict the disorder. [Illustration: THE POSITIONS ASSUMED BY HORSES HAVING ALBUMINOUS URINE.] The positions of both horses were remarkable. One stretched the fore and hind legs out, as though it were about to urinate; the other roached the back and brought the hind feet under the body as far as possible. Turning in the stalls was, in each case, accomplished with difficulty; and the straddling gait remarkable in both, indicating the seat of the affection. Some urine being caught by the groom, it was thick but clear--like melted calves' foot jelly--and, when cold, the surface was uneven. Bichloride of mercury being added to a portion of the fluid, caused a thick, colorless, opaque substance--resembling coagulated white of egg--to be thrown down, leaving a clear straw-colored liquor above the settlement. Another portion being first treated with acetic acid, afterward mixed with prussiate of potash and subsequently boiled, became in appearance like to milk. With time, however, a white sediment occurred, leaving the fluid perfectly clear. Mr. Percivall's treatment was mildly depletive. He bled moderately, gave a laxative, and applied mustard to the loins for a brief space. Perfect rest, strict attention to diet, and repeated doses of opium, constituted the after-measures. It is also mentioned that diuretics, tonics, and stimulants were tried, but all proved injurious. Both animals ultimately recovered. [Illustration: THE TESTS FOR ALBUMINOUS URINE. A. The appearance of the urine when cold, being partially rough on the surface. Sometimes, however, the fluid is merely thicker than usual, appearing like water in which a portion of gum has been dissolved. B. The white precipitate produced by the addition of a portion of the solution of bichloride of mercury. C. Some urine to which a little acetic acid was first added. A portion of the solution of prussiate of potash was subsequently introduced. The liquid was then boiled, when it became thick, white, and opaque, like milk. ]