a caustic. (v, 8, 9.) Μολύβδαινα, Plumbago, has similar powers to litharge, but removed from the middle temperament to the colder. * * * * * COMMENTARY. Several varieties of the Molybdæna are described by Dioscorides, from which it would appear that the ancients applied the term to more than one metallic substance; the variety resembling litharge being most probably graphite or plumbago; and the one of a leaden colour, being the molybdate of lead, or “yellow lead-spar” of Jameson. It is named Galena by his translators, but whether it, that is to say, the sulphuret of lead, was also comprehended under it we are unable to determine. The molybdæna occurs in the works of Hippocrates. Dioscorides recommends it as being incarnative and epulotic in plasters. Galen and the other Greek authorities treat of its medicinal powers succinctly like our author. None of the Arabians appear to have distinguished the molybdæna properly from litharge. Μόλυβδος, Plumbum, _Lead_, is possessed of refrigerant powers, and has also a considerably humid substance congealed by the cold. If wine, the oil of unripe grapes, or any of the cooling juices be rubbed with it, it will make an excellent application for ulcerous inflammations about the pudenda and anus. A plate of lead worn upon the loins restrains libidinous dreams; and a piece of lead put upon ganglia discusses them. Burnt lead being more desiccative, is also somewhat acrid. If washed it becomes desiccative without pungency, and makes a good application for ill-conditioned ulcers. * * * * *