_Manuel de Sommelier, par_ A. JULLIEN, Paris, 1817.
Not one Constitution in a thousand, is so happily constructed or is constantly in such perfect adjustment, that the operations of the Abdominal Viscera (on which every other movement of the system depends) proceed with healthful regularity.
The following hints will point out to the Reader, how to employ Art to afford that assistance to Nature, which in Indisposition and Age, is so often required, and will teach him to counteract in the most prompt and agreeable manner--the effects of those accidental deviations from strict Temperance,--which sometimes overcome the most abstemious philosopher--when the seducing charms of Conviviality tempt him to forego the prudent maxims of his cooler moments.
They will help those who have delicate Constitutions, to obtain their fair share of Health and Strength,--and instruct the Weak, so to economize the powers they have, that they may enjoy Life as well as the Strong.
To humour that desire for the marvellous, which is so universal in medical (as well as in other) matters,--the makers of _Aperient Pills_ generally select the most DRASTIC PURGATIVES, which operating considerably in a dose of a few grains, excite admiration in the Patient, and faith in their powers, in proportion as a small dose produces a great effect,--who seldom considers how irritating such materials must be,--and consequently how injurious to a Stomach in a state of Debility, and perhaps deranged by indulging Appetite beyond the bounds of moderation.
INDIGESTION will sometimes overtake the most experienced Epicure;--when the gustatory nerves are in good humour, Hunger and Savoury Viands will sometimes seduce the Tongue of a "_Grand Gourmand_" to betray the interest of his Stomach[69] in spite of his Brains.
On such an unfortunate occasion,--whether the intestinal commotion be excited by having eaten too much, or too strong food--lie down--have your Tea early after Dinner--and drink it warm.
This is a hint to help the Invalid, whose digestion is so delicate, that it is sometimes disordered by a Meal of the strictest Temperance. If the anxiety, &c. about the Stomach does not speedily abate, apply the "_Stomach Warmer_." This valuable companion to Aged and Gouty Subjects, may be procured at No. 58, Haymarket.