Nine books of physick and chirurgery written by that great and learned physitian, Dr Sennertus. The first five being his Institutions of the whole body of physick: the other four of fevers and agues: with their differences, signs, and cures.

The Fourth Book. Of the Plague, and of Pestilential and Ma∣lignant Fevers. (Book 4)

CHAP. I. Of the Nature of the Pestilence.

HItherto we have finished the essential differences of Fevers; it remains that we now should speak of the accidental. Amongst which, the principal and most necessary to be known, are those that enfold the Pestilence, pestilential Fevers and ma∣lignant.

And indeed concerning the Plague, with which, * 1.1 although not alwaies, yet most commonly a Fever is joyned; That name is most noted to be attributed to the most pernitious and destru∣ctive of all others: But what the nature of that disease is, amongst Authors is much controverted. For first of all, sithence various and several kinds of diseases and symptomes may appear in the Plague: Yet because they are also often perceived without the plague, the nature of the plague is not to be placed in so ma∣ny diseases and symptomes differing in specie, but in some pecu∣liar sort: Nor doth the being epidemical or contagious, con∣stitute the nature of the pestilence, since other diseases also may be universal and contagious.

But since that this is granted by all, * 1.2 that the Plague spreads most, when many are infected together with the same disease, and they die, and others are infected: Hence it may easily ap∣pear, that the plague is primarily a disease of that part on the which life depends chiefly, and the which being hurt, a man is in very great danger of his life, namely the heart, the fountain of life, and store-house of vital heat: For although the humour wherein the venome inhereth may subsist in divers parts (whence the same diseases and symptomes in every pestilence are not the same to appearance) yet in what place soever it subsisteth, it hath

a peculiar antipathy with the heart, and thereby destroyeth a man so suddenly.

But from whence that force and quality so mischievous and inimicous to the heart, * 1.3 hath its original, and dependeth, of that there is a very great controversie amongst Physitians; and in∣deed, some do conceive that the Pestilence only consisteth of pu∣trifaction, and conclude, that by putrifaction the nature of the Pestilence may be consumed. But because they themselves ac∣knowledge that all putred Fevers are not pestilential, they strive variously to determine it in putrifaction, and that they divers ways strive to explain, but all in vain. Whatsoever therefore putrifaction is concluded to be, it sufficeth not to constitute the pestilence; for there are measures and degrees of putrifaction al∣so whatsoever they are, since that they differ only according to magis and minus, they differ not in their kind, neither do they separate the plague from the rest of the putred Fevers. Moreover the Plague hurteth in another kind then a putred Fever doth; for it spreads it self for the most part in a moment, and brings forth pernicious effects, it diffuseth it self in an astonishing man∣ner, and into whatsoever it enters, a very little of the pestilent venome may lie hidden any where a long time, and remain whole, and afterwards be taken into the body, and on a sudden produce such grievous symptomes, and brings forth such effects as are not in the power of the primary qualities, on which the ground of putrifaction depends: Moreover, if the plague should pro∣ceed from putrifaction only, a Fever also would never be without the pestilence: yet since it is observed that a Fever is without the plague, as out of Hippocrates 3. epid. comm. 4.25.55. Galen de simp. med. facult. de terra Armenia. Jac. de partib. in 1. quarti Avicen. cap. de Febre Pestilent. Alex. Benedicto, Fr. Valleriola loc. comm. lib. 3. c. 18. and out of others it is mani∣fest. Lastly, the way of cure is far different from that of other putred Fevers, and the pestilent poyson indicates and requires a∣lexipharmall means, which in other putred Fevers are neither indicated nor have any place.

Therefore we have determined that the plague doth consist in a hidden quality, and in its nature wholly adverse to the heart, and that the pestilential poyson is endued with such a quality, which by the effects of it, as we lately said, beyond the primary qualities doth prove.

Contagion is joyned with the pestilence, and pestilential poy∣sons have always contagion joyned with them as a proper acci∣dent, because it belongs to all plagues, but not only to the plague.

Therefore we define the pestilence to be a venomous disease of the heart, from venomous matter, * 1.4 and in its whole substance pe∣culiarly adverse to the heart, and gotten by infection, and there∣fore is of it self infectious, and suddenly and joyntly hurting all the actions of the heart, very acute, deadly, introducing de∣structive symptomes of all sorts.

But what the specifique nature of this venome is, and what its differences are in divers constitutions pestilential, no man can easily explain. To me it seems probable to be the highest degree of corruption, which indeed the humours in our bodies can pos∣sibly receive; to which through many alterations, mutations, and fermentations it comes, and into which diseases which went before, at length degenerate: Whence it comes to pass, that when the Plague reigns, other sporadick diseases that come not by or∣dinary means, and all benigne diseases for the most part are si∣lent, and those epidemical diseases that reigned before cease.

CHAP. II. Of the causes of the Pestilence.

COncerning the causes of the Pestilence, * 1.5 or this great corru∣ption, they are twofold; some of them generating the Pesti∣lence, others propagating the same, which are comprehend∣ed under the name of contagion. In the former rank are Ayr, Stars, course of Diet, Poysons, imagination and terror.

For first, * 1.6 Ayr somtimes contains in it the seeds of the pesti∣lence, which when by drawing in the ayr by our breath, men draw in that therewith, and so the pestilence is stirred up in them, and that when it happens, most grievous pestilential constituti∣ons are occasioned, and is far more pernitious then to those to whom the contagion of the plague is only transferred. Ayr be∣comes pestilential, when there is in it excess of heat and moisture, which dispose bodies to putrifaction; such a constitution of ayr Hippocrates describeth 3. epid. comm. 3. yet the Plague may be bred also without such a constitution of ayr, and that very cor∣ruption it self is not terminated in the primary qualities; but 'tis necessary that certain occult qualities, and that somwhat divine, mentioned by Hippocrates should concur, but it takes its venenosity and pestilential quality first from heaven, whilst that the ayr by a peculiar influence from the stars, whether it be so disposed in the first qualities, that it should putrifie and be cor∣rupted, or in an occult manner also it be so disposed and affected,

that in it poysonous seeds are generated, which in their whole substance are adverse to man.

To which thing Astrologers teach, that Saturn doth prin∣cipally act his part. Moreover the Ayr may receive its pestilential seeds from the caverns of the earth, whilst from thence venomous steams exhale, being generated in the ayr long pend up before; to which purpose Earthquakes much conduce, which move venomous steams in that manner, and open ways for their evaporation; so out of a chest which hath been long shut, being opened, the plague cometh forth, as Julius Capito∣linus hath noted in Vero: The same may happen in standing pools and lakes, and corrupted waters in Wells. Lastly, Histo∣ri•••• inform us, that the ayr hath been infected by the carcasses of such as have been slain, and by the corruption of multitudes of dead locusts.

Secondly, although the stars by corrupting of the ayr may be the cause of the pestilence whilst they so corrupt it, as that that pestilence which is contained in it, the seeds or sparks being com∣municated to man, they excite the plague in him: yet by it self also, by affecting of mans very body, they may cause the plague, whilst either they dispose the ayr so, that whether by manifest or occult qualities, 'tis rendred not fit for the preserva∣tion of mankind, but corrupteth the humours therein, so that they become of a pestilential nature; or also proximately and immediately by occult influencies, they corrupt mans body, and principally the humours and spirits contained therein; concern∣ing which thing Astrologers are to be advised with. * 1.7

Thirdly, Pestilential venome may be generated from common Diet. That which often happens in a long dearth of provision, in Camps and Sieges, where men are compelled to make use of corrupt and unwholsome meat, by reason whereof ill humours are generated; which being detained in the body, are more corru∣pted, and at length become pestilential; as Histories sufficient∣ly testifie.

Fourthly Unguents and venomous powders being spread a∣broad may cause the plague, * 1.8 being that which by mischievous per∣sons hath been done and committed, as histories again inform us: yet if any one would refer this kind of cause to contagion or infection, * 1.9 we will not contend with him.

Fifthly, The cause is imagination, terror, and fear; and ex∣perience hath taught us, that some whilst they have beheld those that were infected with the plague, or dead of it, or seeing some go out of a house that was then infected, by reason of too much

terror and fear, have fallen sick of the plague: I have observed the same to proceed from anger.

CHAP. III. Of Contagion.

ANd these are the causes, by means whereof the pestilent poyson may be generated in the ayr, or in mans body; yet it often comes to pass, that neither the ayr, nor evil diet, nor any of the rest of these causes have stirred up the pestilence, but otherwise from elsewhere being brought into some place by contagion, and afterwards by contagion also it is diffused into more places. * 1.10 For although there are other diseases contagious also, yet the plague is the most infectious of all others.

Contagion is a production of the like diseased or sickly affect in another body, by pollution sent out from a discased body, but there are three things required to perfect contagion: A contagi∣ous body it self that may infect others, a disease or an affect con∣trary to nature, which is communicated to another, and the body which is infected.

First, a contagious body is that which whilst 'tis sick of any disease, diffuseth not the disease it self (for the actident goes not out of the subject) but some of the morbifique cause out of it self, and communicates it to another, and so in this manner excites the same disease in it. For that which is communicated to an∣other from out of a contagious body, is not the disease it self, but a certain body flying out of the diseased body, and received into another, having power of stirring up the same in it. The Greeks call it Noseras apocriscis, and aporroias, and miasmata: The Latines, the pollutions and seeds of contagion; and since that we see that such seeds have not only hurtful qualities in the smallest quantities, and that they easily insinuate themselves into the body, but also they endure a long time, and retain their strength entire, and they are most exactly mixed, and are some way spirituous, * 1.11 and 'tis necessary they should sowe their store of strength by some occult quality.

But contagion is not scattered after one manner, for somtimes it goes out by breathing, somtimes through the pores of the skin, or in the form of vapours, or of sweat and filth adhering to the skin, and is communicated to other bodies. And this seed go∣eth out most plentifully from an infected body, when the poyson is too strong for nature, and overcomes it, which happens in those that are dying.

The seeds of contagion are communicated either by immedi∣diate contact, or by some medium and vehicle. This vehicle is twofold; ayr, and some fewel, as they call it: Ayr, when it re∣ceives the seeds of contagion from infected bodies, it can carry them to places nigh, yea and somtimes more remote places. That hath the nature of fewel in it, which can receive the seeds of contagion, and communicate the same to another; which kind of bodies are thin and porous, as Flax, Cotton, Feathers, the hairy skins of animals, and garments made of them, feathers al∣so of birds, and birds themselves; and it is found out for a truth, that those pestilential sparks have often lain hid in the cinders or ashes; and it may come to pass, that any one may carry the sparks of it about him in his garments, and not be in∣fected, and yet they being moved and shaked, may infect an∣other.

But the seed of a contagious pestilence when 'tis received into a body, it brings in that disposition with it wherewith that body from out of which it came was afflicted, and that for the most part suddenly, yet somtimes it is found to lie hid some days in the body before it denudates it self.

Thirdly, Concerning the body that receives the pestilent treasury, although no man can promise to himself immunity from the pestilent venome, yet it is certain some are more easi∣ly, some more hardly infected. The cause whereof without all doubt consisteth in some peculiar occult quality of the heart, by the power whereof it hath or hath not strength to resist the veno∣mous pestilence; yet because the venomous quality is not trans∣ferred without a subject out of the infected body into another, it will more powerfully insinuate it self if it be received into a body proportionable and like unto that wherein it was generated: whence kinsmen are sooner affected then others. Yet there are also other things that occasion the more facile reception of the pestilence; for such as breath stronger, and such as have wide and open pores of their bodies, easier take in the seeds of the plague, inhering in the Ayr, or any place apt to retain it.

CHAP. IIII. Of the signes of the Plague.

MOreover concerning the signs, * 1.12 that I may say nothing of approaching signs, desiring brevity, but only by what means it may be known we will speak. Indeed the plague when many have been infected, may easily be known; but be∣fore many have been overspread thereby, there is scarce any path∣ognomick signe by which it can certainly be known, that one or a few being affected are sick of the plague; afterwards when more are visited, it is not so difficult to be known, especially when all sporadick diseases for the most part are silent: For first, the plague seizeth on many, and the most it kills. Secondly, 'Tis contagious, and easily given to others, and 'tis more con∣tagious then any other disease. Thirdly, by its violence it de∣stroys the strength, and principally the vital spirits. Whence fourthly, when little, frequent, and unequal pulses are made, palpitation of the heart happens, lipothymie, syncope, and great anguish and perplexity altogether. Fifthly, If the disease be pro∣tracted, and the venome corrupt the humours, evils and sym∣ptomes happen of all kinds, and the whole order of the body is disturbed; Fevers happen, divers wheals or pustules, buboes, carbuncles; yet if there are no pushes, bubo, or carbuncle ap∣pear, we must not therefore conclude that the sick hath not the plague; for it often happens that before they come out, and can be drived out by reason of the debility of nature, the sick die with the violence of the disease. There happens likewise other sym∣ptomes of all sorts; for when the strength of the body is debili∣tated by the vehemency of the poyson, the humours and spirits are corrupted, the excrements are changed, and the urine either becomes crude, or fully corrupted, the sweats are stinking and un∣timely, filthy, foetid, ill coloured excrements proceed from the belly, the qualities of the body are variously changed, and there is nothing at all in burning and malignant Fevers, which may not appear likewise in the pestilence: * 1.13 But there is no disease at all to which the Aphorism of Hippocrat. 19. sect. 2. doth more a∣gree: for oftentimes when the plague flatters most, it brings un∣expected death; and on the contrary, those that have seemed desperate, often recover when past hope.

But there is the more hopes when tumors come forth suddenly in a place that is not dangerous, and after their coming forth the

symptomes abate, also if the wheals are of a good colour, and with remission of symptomes; if medicines, meat and drink are not vomited up again, if sweats come out with lightsom∣ness to the sick, and other signs are discerned, which use to be pre∣sent in salutary Fevers.

But the greatest danger is, when tumors come not enough out, and carbuncles draw near to the heart, or vanish again; if gid∣diness in the head, watchings, a coma, or convulsion fits are pre∣sent, if the sick shall say every thing stinketh, if trembling of the heart, fainting of the spirits be present, if all things are thrown up by vomiting, if the extremities of the body wax cold, if the sweat be cold, if the excrements are of divers colours, black, and stinking, and if the other ill symptomes of malignant Fevers be present.

CHAP. V. Of preservation from the Pestilence.

BUt because 'tis safer to prevent the Plague, * 1.14 then being pre∣sent to expel it out of the body, we should therefore be care∣ful first to prevent it. The way of preservation (with Gods assistance, which we ought to seek by prayers) consists in two things.

The first is, That all those causes that may occasion the sick∣ness may be avoided.

Furthermore, that the force of those causes when they cannot be avoided, may be broken, and our bodies rendred less apt to entertain them, and more able to resist them.

First therefore if the Plague reign any where, all commerce with the infected is to be avoided, and if any one be certainly infected, he should be separated from the rest with all his hous∣hold-stuff, indeed for many weeks, and the house infected (as hereafter shall be shewed) cleansed; and in case it be doubtful whether any one be sick of it or no, 'tis better to be too cautious then careless.

But if the pestilence be now sown in any place, 'tis safest to remove from thence, according to that common verse,

Mox longe tarde, cede recede redi.

Forthwith far from it go, Returning come back slow.

The reasons of which do not prove that he should change his place, the assistance of God being implored, he should often use

medicines against poyson, and fortific the body with those things that resist contagion, as also he should endeavour that his body should be free from all excrements, and preserved in its natural state.

And that we may begin a posteriore, * 1.15 the body is not to be rashly weakned with strong medicines; yet if any vitious humour shall be in the body, lest that the force of the Alexipharmacal me∣dicines should be debilitated, or the venomous poyson should easily take root in the body, it is to be purged by little and little with lenitives; to which purpose the most profitable are pills of Ruffi, so called from the authors name, and by custome called Pestilential pills; out of which also is made the Elixir proprie∣tatis, oyl of Vitriol being thereunto added: Syrup of Roses so∣lutive is also profitable, and Rhubarb, Agarick, and medicines compounded with them, which are every where extant. If blood abound, it may be abated by opening of a vein.

The Diet ought to be such, * 1.16 whereby vitious humours may not be cumulated; and with meats and drinks most principally things good against poyson should be mixed; and also, if as it may easily happen, any of the vitious humours be cumulated, let them be purged by the said medicines.

And forasmuch as Fontanels take away excrementitious hu∣mours by little and little, and hence take away the provision for the plague, they also in pestilential times are profitable.

Mediocrity also is to be kept in exercise and rest, sleeping and waking, and the passions of the mind, and principally as much as 'tis possible, intentive thoughts of the plague, and fear of the same is to be shaken out of our minds.

Besides these, two things more are yet necessary for our pre∣servation from the plague: First to take heed that none of the pestilential seed be attracted; Furthermore, if that happen, we being ignorant thereof, our bodies should be fortified against it.

First therefore we should endeavour that the Ayr wherein we live be pure; * 1.17 and therefore first publike places are to be cleansed from all filth, and the ayr should be purified with fire, principally of the wood of Juniper, Oak, Pine, Bays, and odoriferous plants being kindled; furthermore, every one should avoid company, and therefore solemn and frequent meetings are justly forbid by the Magistrate. The windows likewise towards places infected should be kept shut, and the ayr (as I newly said) with burnt woods, or with vinegar bezoarted, being poured upon hot bricks, or with suffumigations, or with pyrion powder kindled, should be purified.

No man should go abroad until the Sun be an hour or two high, * 1.18 neither fasting, nor unarmed with alexipharmacal things, therefore balls of Amber, Nodules, sweet Limments mixed with Treacle, oyl of Rue, Znezedoaric, Angelica, Citron, Juniper, and such like should be held to the nostrils, and under the tongue con∣venient troches should be held, cordial bags should be applied to the region of the heart.

Amulets likewise of poysonous things are commended by ma∣ny, * 1.19 as Arsnick, powder of a Toad, Quicksilver and such like being prepared, descriptions whereof are every where extant: which whatsoever they do, without question they perform in such manner, that they draw the venomous poyson to themselves, by the similitude of their own substance, and turn it from the heart; as those that are wounded with a Scorpion, with the oyl thereof being externally anointed, are forthwith healed: yet you must take keed that those bags, or mass of such things be not heated by motion, lest the strength of the poyson should be com∣municated to the heart through the pores of the skin.

But the greatest hope of health and security, * 1.20 is in medicines that resist poyson, out of which those are to be selected which by long experience have been approved; The simples are, Angelica, Valerian, Tormentil, Carduus Benedictus, Sorrel, Dittany of Crete and white, Rue, Swallow-wort, Scordium, Scabicon, Di∣vels-bit, Burnet, Olsnicium, Fluellin, Vipers-grass, Marigolds, Wormwood, Tansie, Zedoary, Masterwort, Gentian, Juniper berries, Walnuts, Hartshorn, Bolealmanick, Terra sigillata, an Emerald, a Hyacinth.

Out of which are various compounds; amongst which those that excel, and are approved by long use, are Mithridate, Trea∣cle and Confectio Liberantis, as also that antidote which is ascribed to King Mithridates, of which Pliny lib. 23. cap. 8. as also Theriaca Diatessaron, to which the moderns have added many more, as the Electuary of Saffron, or of an Egg, as 'tis called, Dioscordium, Tracastory, Antidotus Saxonica, Antidotus Guidonis de Cauliaco, Pulvis Caesaris rubeus, and Gryseus Electuarium Camphoratum Kigleri, and many more, which the Tracts of divers Authors concerning the pestilence afford such as are profitable, as well for preservation from the Plague, as for the cure thereof; so that it becomes us to be more solicitous about the choice of them, then the store of them here: And amongst so great plenty, 'tis more safe nevertheless to depend on those that have been approved by long use and experience, then such as are newly invented, what colour or pretence soever they afford them∣selves.

But because those strong and hot medicines are not pro∣per for women with child, nor children, they should have medi∣cines of Harts-horn, the bone of the heart of a Stag (or Deer) the roots of Tormentil, Pearl, Bole Almenick, Coral, Bezor, and precious stones: And since that there is no small difference amongst Alexipharmacal Medicines according to the qualities they have besides their occult ones, every one of them doth not agree with every age and season: for in a hotter Ayr, medicines that are not so hot are to be used; which must also be observed in those which in regard of their age or constitution of body are hotter, lest that humour should be kindled, and a Fever from thence arise afterwards; or if some are hotter, they should be prepared with Vinegar, or taken with Syrup acetos. Citri, Sorrel great or small, Pomgranates.

For there is no depending upon one medicine against poyson, but they are to be varied, lest that nature should be accustomed to it, and thereby can receive little benefit by it.

CHAP. VI. Of the Cure of the Pestilence.

IF in any disease in the world, certainly in this an exact way of cure is to be used, * 1.21 since that the smallest fault being com∣mitted by any, may become an irreparable damage: But be∣cause the right reason of Cure depends on indications, and see∣ing that the Plague is an occult disease, and its nature consists in an occult quality, which by its peculiar force is mischievous to the heart, and is very contagious; but that is introduced by a cause endued with the same quality; Hence 'tis manifest, that that occult quality indicates a medicine alexipharmacal contrary to it, and shews that the cause in the body, whether taken by breathing in, or contact, or by what means soever contracted, should be removed and eradicated; But how that ought to be done, is controverted amongst Physitians.

For first, since that neither Phlebotomy, * 1.22 nor Purgation are indicated by the pestilence, quatenus 'tis the pestilence, whether they are to be used or not is controverted.

First, Concerning the opening of a Vein, since that it nei∣ther cures the disease, nor takes away the venome, nor the cause, 'tis rarely to be used, and in that Pestilence which is occasioned by evil Diet, 'tis wholly to be omitted, as also in that which ari∣seth from a pestilential constitution of Ayr, unless there be very

great store of blood which must be diminished, and its heat mi∣tigated: But if the Plague come by infection, and there be that plenty of blood as may cause us to fear lest that a putred Fever should happen, which may become no less dangerous to the sick then the Plague it self, or that it be observed that the blood flows violently to inconvenient places, and that the strength is rather oppressed by its plenty, then dissipated, you may breath a Vein, yet only bleed what the strength can well bear with; and that should be in the beginning, for when twelve hours or more are passed away, 'tis safer to omit bleeding, because the strength be∣ing debilitated with the violence of the poyson, it cannot well bear it. Concerning the place for breathing of a Vein, such a place is to be chosen, as may help the motion of Nature, not hinder it, and may together divert the pestilent matter from a noble part; Therefore if a Parotis break out behind the ears, or a Bubo under the Arm-pits, or a Carbuncle in the superiour parts, a Vein should be opened in the Arm on the same side; but if a Bubo come in the Groyn, a Vein should be opened in the foot on the same side. But if a Carbuncle should arise in either of the Legs, seeing that useth to cause an inflammation, and great pain, by which the strength is weakned, 'tis convenient to open a Vein in the contrary leg; for neither is the motion of nature hindred by this means, but the matter is drawn from the superiour parts towards the inferiour, and a great flux to the part affected, and the increase of the inflammation is hereby pre∣vented.

Moreover Purgation also is not indicated by the pestilence, * 1.23 nor can the seeds of the Plague be eradicated by any purging medi∣cine, unless perhaps a great disturbance of nature being made, which must then be joyned with danger: and for as much as Nature for the most part expels the pestilent venome to the out∣parts of the body, this motion of Nature by Purgation is hin∣dred, and the pestilent venome is drawn into the internal parts, and is more mixed with the humours, and the motion of hu∣mours being stirred up, most dangerous, nay deadly vomits and sluxes are occasioned: And therefore not in purging, but in medicines that resist poyson, principally, and next under God the hope of health and safety is to be placed.

Wherefore it will be safest for any one that shall think himself to be infected with the Plague, * 1.24 having first implored the assistance of almighty God, to fly to those medicines resisting venome, mentioned in the fifth chapter before, and to take some one ex∣perienced and approved medicine; and in case it be vomited up

at the first, then 'tis best to take of it again forthwith; nay, in case it be retained, it will not suffice to take of it but once, but the Alexipharmacal medicine should be repeated thrice in the space of four and twenty hours, and so to continue for two days, until that the force of the poyson shall be broken. The medi∣cine being taken, the sick should forthwith compose themselves to sweat, especially the second time after taking, they should keep out the cold Ayr, and if the strength will bear it, they should continue their sweat for two hours space: The sick should by no means sleep, until he hath sweat twice, and between the sweats should be refreshed with Conserve and Syrup of Roses, Sorrel, acetos. Citri, of Pomgranates, red Gooseberries, with cordial and odoriferous waters applyed to the Nostril, and sprinkled about the Bed-chamber. It shall be profitable also to take warm bread out of the oven, and fill a hollow part of it with Treacle, and apply it to the Navel, or to the Arm-pits, that it may draw the venome to it; The sweat being ended, the body should be rub∣bed and dried with clean warm linnen clothes, being careful that no cold ayr be admitted, and the sheets and coverings of the beds should be changed. After the sweat, the sick should be nourished with meats that afford good juice, and easie of concoction, yet taken but in a small quantity.

When the sick hath sweat once, if there be need of opening a vein, let it be done in that manner as is already heretofore ex∣pressed: And when the Alexipharmicks have been taken of two days by the sick, and the body is Cacochymick, or the Plague depend upon some internal default of humours, and that great danger of a Fever be to be feared, it will be convenient to admi∣nister a purge, that some part of the matter putrifying and in∣creasing, the Fever may be abated; so that Nature may over∣come the rest more easily: they should be gentle, as Syrup of Ro∣ses solutive Tamarinds, Rhubarb, Agarick, Pestilential Pills, Tryphera Persica, Syr. Diasercos.

Afterwards if it be not needful to cause sweat (which never∣theless ought not to be hindred if it come on a critical day) such medicines are to be continued as hinder putrifaction, resist a ma∣lignant Fever, and extinguish the flames in the bowels and hu∣mours.

And then we must be wary how we use Treacle, or any of the other hot medicines, without any respect of the disease, nature, age, and other circumstances; wherefore when the Fever hath set upon the body, such things are not to be exhibited, unless they are mixed with cold things, or else cold things alone may be

given, such as Syrup, acetos. Citri, of Sorrel, Pomgranates, red Gooseberries, rubi Idaei, as also Pearl, Coral, precious stones, Bezoar.

But since that Nature for the most part useth to send the most venomous part of the matter to the out-parts of the body, * 1.25 and occasions Buboes and Carbuncles: If the venome perfectly, or most part of it be driven out into a Bubo, which may be known by the remission of the Fever and Symptomes, we must expect ripe∣ning, although not perfectly, as in other tumors, yet it must be helped by all means; for if either a Bubo come not enough out, or be encreased over-much, and still the Fever and symptomes abate not, and the sick no ways mends, we must endeavour that a way may be opened for the letting out the venome.

Therefore either vesiccatories must be applyed, or the skin must be scarrified, that the poyson may freely expire, and the pesti∣lent humours fly out; a young chicken also, or pigeon, the fea∣thers about the rump being pull'd off, should to the great advan∣tage of the sick be applyed to it, although no incision be made, and that should be often repeated; or a dryed Toad being moist∣ned with wine, should be applyed: afterwards we must endeavour that the rest of the matter may be brought to maturity by proper medicines described every where up and down; into the place opened by Incision, convenient digestives should be put; and if the incision be not made deep enough, and the quitture be still therein detained, the tumour must be opened with an Incision knife, and the Ulcer mundifyed with proper medicines, and it must not be healed up, until all the venome be come out.

But Carbuncles are forthwith to be scarrified, * 1.26 and that deep enough, that the pestilent and corrupt humour may come forth, afterwards some convenient plaister must be applyed, such as may be of the soot of a chimney, and others, described up and down in Authors: Some apply the plaister de Magnete Arsenicali, 'tis proper to apply a dryed Toad also, being first powd'red, in wine, to the places adjacent, lest the venome should return to the inter∣nal parts; some defensitive of cooling, drying, and binding things must be applyed; some make a circle with a Saphire stone about the Carbuncle, lest the poyson should creep farther, and thereby extinguish the same; and if the Carbuncle be too much encreased, and cause great pain, a vein should be opened under the same, that so the corrupt blood may be evacuated, and to abate the heat, a plaister of Houndstongue is to be applyed.

When an Escar shall be generated, it must be taken away with a convenient Unguent, and the Ulcer must be mundified and

cured in due manner; but during the whole time of the cure, twice every seven days a potion of the temperate medicines that resist venome should be drunk, lest any of the malignity should remain in the Body.

CHAP. VII. Of the Nature of a Pestilent and Malignant Fever, and of the difference of them from the Plague.

FOrasmuch as the highest degree of corruption of humours is in the Pestilence, we must as it were ascend to it by the malignant and pestilent Fevers: of them therefore we will now speak, in what respect these three, the Pestilence, a pestilent and malignant Fever differ.

That the pestilence consists in a certain occult quality meerly adverse to mankind, and that it is infectious, * 1.27 and that a Fever is not of the same essence therewith, but yet commonly accom∣panies it, is already shewed: And therefore the Plague it self al∣so, when it hath a Fever joyned with it, may not without cause in some measure be called a pestilential Fever: yet other Fevers al∣so are called pestilent without the plague, wherein the corrupti∣on of humors hath not yet attained that high degree which may constitute the nature of venomous pestilence, yet they contain in them somwhat like to that venomous and malignant pesti∣lence, and moreover either are not pernitious, or contagious as the plague, if they are both of them, yet they are less destru∣ctive then the plague; for the difference of a pestilential Fever, so called in particular, and of the venomous pestilence (since the nature of them both is unknown) betrays it self in this, by the vehemency and contagiousness of it, which is perceived to be less, not only in sporadick Fevers, but in epidemical pestilenti∣als, then in the plague it self: But concerning malignant Fe∣vers, although they by a general name signifie truly pestilentials, yet in particular those are called malignant, wherein there is a less degree of corruption then in those that are truly pestilential, and wherein the humours which kindle the Fever contain in them some occult quality tending to venenosity; whence there is less destruction and infection, somtimes there is none.

And that the matter may be handled in few words, if it ap∣pear by the symptomes in any Fever, that besides putrefaction there is a lso some occult and maligne quality, and yet but few die thereof, whether they are epidemical Fevers, or sporadick, or

contagious, or not contagious; this is the first degree of corru∣ption, and such a Fever in particular is called malignant; but in case many die, and yet others are not infected, or although there be some contagion, and some destruction, and yet neither the contagion nor destructive power have attained to the highest degree, and many continue well in health, 'tis a pestilent Fever in particular. Lastly, if so be many which begin to be visited die, and that most every where are infected, and that the contagion be spread over remote places, 'tis the plague.

CHAP. VIII. To what kind of Fevers Pestilent and Malignant ones pertain.

MOreover since there are three kinds of Fevers, * 1.28 Epheme∣ral, Putred, and Hectick, and again of putred Fevers, there are some differences: 'tis now enquired to what kind of Fevers malignant and pestilent do belong, or whether ma∣lignancy and pestilency belong to all Fevers, or to some certain kind only.

But we have already determined that there are no Ephemeraes nor Hecticks pestilent and malignant, because that in all pesti∣lent and malignant Fevers, there are manifest tokens of corru∣ption or putrefaction of humours, although that malignant and pestilent humour have likewise a manifest antipathy with the spi∣rits, and may stir up a dangerous Fever.

But all putred pestilential Fevers are continued, since the force of the venomous putrifaction is such, as that it can easily diffuse it self into all the veins and arteries, and may easily corrupt the humours.

But malignant Fevers in particular so called, may also be in∣termittent, as experience sheweth: Neither is it impossible, that even in the first passages of the body, the putrifying humours may acquire some malignity; and seeing that in such Fevers the force of the venome is not so great, nothing hinders but that Nature may appoint certain excretions at appointed periods.

Continued pestilent and malignant Fevers, are particularly addicted to no sort of them, but according as putrefaction hap∣pens into this or that sickly preparation, so this or that conti∣nued Fever is stirred up, somtimes a Synocha, somtimes a perio∣dick; whence various symptomes likewise do arise, according to the sickly provision.

Moreover concerning the differences of malignant and pesti∣lential Fevers, * 1.29 since that in every such Fever there are found two things, the putrifaction it self, from whence the Fever ariseth, and malignity; in respect of these also, do the Fevers differ. For somtimes equally from putrefaction and malignity, danger is at hand; which Fevers, if the putrifaction and malignity be great, are exceeding dangerous; but if neither the malignancy nor putrefaction be much, the Fevers are not dangerous. Som∣times there is more putrifaction, but the malignancy is not much; and then the Fever comes neerer to the nature of other putred Fevers: but somtimes the putrifaction is not much, but the malignant quality vehement, and such Fevers seem to be milde but they are most fraudulent and dangerous.

Concerning the nature of Pestilency and Malignity, al∣though it be occult, yet from its effects we may apprehend a cer∣tain variety, whilst somtimes spots, somtimes Measles, somtimes wheals come forth; somtimes too great sweats, somtimes Catarrhs, Pleurisies and other evils, according to the antipathy which the venome hath with this or that particular part.

CHAP. IX. Of the causes of a Pestilent and Malignant Fever.

AS for the causes of these Fevers, * 1.30 because their malignancy is less then theirs of the pestilence, and through this, as it were by degrees, we ascend to the Pestilence, those which are the causes of the Plague, for the most part, are the same with those of malignant and pestilent Fevers; but more mild, as prin∣cipally ayr, heaven, course of diet, and contagion.

Namely malignant Fevers in the first place do arise from a sickly provision of the body; for it ariseth from meat that is bad, fit for corruption, and very obnoxious to putrifaction, whereof Galen may be seen, in his book of Meats affording good and bad juice, and the humours may be so corrupted in our bodies, as that they become venomous, of which I have spoken in the Instituti∣ons in the second book, part 2. cap. 12. Furthermore from com∣mon causes likewise, namely unprofitable constitution of Ayr, as also from the influence of Stars.

But pestilent Fevers so called in particular, have the same causes, but more grievous, which at length if they are increased, produce the pestilence; whence Fevers malignant and pestilent long con∣tinuing, at length turn to the plague.

CHAP. X. Of the Signs of Malignant and Pestilent Fevers.

IN the same manenr is it about the Diagnostick signs: * 1.31 for in a pestilential Fever peculiarly so called, the same signs almost appear as in the plague, only fewer, or more gentle; and such Fevers are not so dangerous nor so infectious as the Plague it self.

But as to the signs of their differences, if both malignity and putrifaction be very much, the strength will be much weakned, and grievous, nay the most dangerous symptomes appear: If the putrifaction be very great, the malignancy little, the feverish symptomes which accompany putrifaction are vehement enough, but the strength is not so much debilitated. But if the putrifa∣ction be not great, but the malignant quality vehement, the symptomes which accompany the Fever are gentle enough, but the strength is exceedingly weakned.

If the humours only are affected, there appear Buboes, Car∣buncles, Imposthumes, Spots, Pushes, and other tokens of pu∣tred Fevers, if the spirits are much infected, these signes are wanting, neither is the heat great, the strength suddenly lan∣guisheth, and the sick are troubled with faintings, the pulses are unequal, weak, and languishing, and the Fever it self in one two or three days space is terminated by health or death. Lastly, if the heart be much infected, great defect of the strength is present, and the sick do not complain of any great heat.

As concerning Malignant Fevers; * 1.32 they are very difficult to be known at the first, because the malignity often lies hid, and shews not it self, unless when it take strength; wherefore all signs are diligently to be weighed, and if any thing be suspected, it must be seriously pondered; but all the signs of a malignant Fever are greater then those of a Fever; and the symptomes which appear, are more vehement then those which can proceed from a Fever, namely weakness of strength, unquietness, more anxiety then the feverish heat would occasion; the pulse is freqnent, little, weak, or if it seem to be natural, other evil symptomes are pre∣sent, the Urine somtimes is like unto those who are in health; somtimes thin and crude, having in it no sediment, or in case it have any, 'tis more like an excrement then a sediment; som∣times 'tis thick, discoloured, troubled, muddy, having a red and troubled sediment; the heat is more milde then the nature of the

disease, and symptomes seem to afford: the face or countenance is much changed from its lively and natural state; and therefore by these signs pestilent and malignant fevers may be easily known: yet there are other things happen, heaviness to sleep, watchings, diliriums, pains of the head, noises and deafness of the ears, loath∣ing or vomiting, flux of the belly, hemorrhodes of the nose, tumors arise behind the ears, under the arm-pits, and about the groin, also divers specks, and almost no evil which can be ob∣served in other perillous Fevers but may here be discerned.

Concerning the prognosticks, and first of pestilential Fevers, * 1.33 there is the same with them for the most part as of the pestilence; for by how much the more grievous the symptomes are, and the strength more debilitated, by so much the more danger is por∣tended; but by how much the milder the symptomes are, and the strength firmer, by so much is there the more hope of health.

There is the same reason in malignant Fevers for the most part, and what is to be hoped concerning the event in every such Fever, is manifest out of those things which are spoken in the Institutions, Book 3. part 3. chap. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

CHAP. XI. Of the Cure of Malignant and Pestilential Fevers in general.

COncerning the cure of pestilent and malignant Fevers, * 1.34 since there are two things in these Fevers contrary to na∣ture, venome, or malignity, and the Fever; by what means the Fever may be resisted, is manifest from those things that have been said hitherto concerning Fevers: how malignity also may be resisted out of those things which are already spoken concerning the pestilence, is plainly shewed.

The greatest difficulty here is in this, to which of them we must have an eye first, and which last, and how the malignity may be taken away without increasing the Fever, and on the contrary, the Fever may be regarded without increasing the ma∣lignity. Which that it may rightly be done, the pestilent ve∣nome and malignity, and the putrifaction and Fever are to be considered and poised together amongst themselves, and regard to be taken whence the greatest danger may arise; and in the first place look to that, yet so, as that the other may not totally be neglected.

Wherefore in a pestilential Fever, * 1.35 as being that wherein ma∣lignity most troubleth, presently we should fly to Alexipharmicks and Sudorifiques; yet those are to be rather chosen which are the more temperate, such as were formerly proposed against the pesti∣lence; afterward if need be, a vein should be opened, and that timely, and scarce after the fourth day, before all things shall be disturbed in the body, and the strength be weakned, namely, when blood doth either abound in quantity, so that it distendeth the vessels, or it is a burthen to the strength, or is stirred by some motion, that it may be feared lest it should be carried to some principal part; but if the disease have made some progress, and the strength now labours, the breathing of a vein is more safely omitted then untimely appointed; but in case the strength will not suffer a vein to be opened, cupping with scarrifying is fit to be used to the inferiour parts.

But purging at the beginning of these Fevers is not conveni∣ent, * 1.36 unless such as may purge only the first ways without any manifest agitation of the rest of the humours; but stronger are not convenient, because they stir the humours, and mix the venome with them the more, and often cause dangerous fluxes of the paunch.

If the matter tend upwards, * 1.37 and there be any nauseousness, vomit is to be provoked by the weaker sort of medicines causing them.

Hence we are to come again to the Alexipharmacal medicines, which notwithstanding should be such, as that the humours should not thereby be increased: Therefore those are to be exhibited that are more temperate, and together do resist putrifaction; such are Sorrel, Citrons, Pomgranates, Cinquefoyl, Tormentil, Harts∣horn, the bone of a Harts heart, Bezoar stone, Bolealmenack, Terra Sigillata, and such like, and medicines prepared of these, but principally Bezoar water is often to be administred, as being that which doth forthwith penetrate, which may be so tempered, as that it may resist the Fever and putrifaction; and therefore with such medicines, Syrup of Sorrel, Limmon, Pomgranates, Sorrel, * 1.38 and young Sorrel, and such like are to be mixed.

The matter being diminished, vesiccatories may be applied to the Legs and Wrists, * 1.39 to the advantage of the sick, since that they draw the venomous matter from the interiour parts to the exteri∣our, without any trouble or weakning of the strength.

But if it be a malignant Fever in particular so called, and the putrifaction more then the malignity, the first passages are first to be purged, and not only with lenitive Clisters, but lenitives

also are to be given, as Syrup of Roses solutive, Manna, Cassia, Tamarinds, Agarick, Rhubarb, Tryphera Persica, especially if the matter swell: But we must wholly abstain from the strongest, as Scammony, Coloquintida, Turbith, and such like. And indeed, if the putrefaction presently increaseth, and a more vehe∣ment Fever is thereby kindled, and especially if the humours swell, presently that is to be done, and that before the third day.

But these things in general cannot sufficiently determine; these tracts in particular of these Fevers, shew the way more clear∣ly; for such pestilent and malignant Fevers are somtimes propa∣gated by infection, when it is most safe that the pollution in what manner soever taken, should be expell'd by Sudorifiques and A∣lexipharmicks out of the body, and afterwards, if occasion do require, to appoint purgation and Phlebotomie; somtimes like∣wise nature it self expells the matter to the circumference of the body, as it useth to happen in the Measles and small Pox; but then Nature is also troubled in her work, and the matter which is thrust out to the exteriour parts of the body, ought not to be called in again by purging, but 'tis rather to be helped by Sudo∣rifiques and Alexipharmicks in its work; but somtimes the Fever is occasioned by vitious preparation of the humours, or is che∣rished thereby, and the peccant matter in the Stomack, near the Midriff and first passages, manifesteth it self by vomit, pain, heat, bitterness of the mouth, anxiety, and other tokens, which neces∣sarily should be avoided by vomit or purgation.

The first passages being opened, and the body evacuated, * 1.40 pre∣sently the opening of a vein is to be appointed, if it be needful, and that before the fourth day.

After purging the body and opening a vein, * 1.41 if occasion re∣quire, 'tis convenient to use some Sudorifique, but such as may not increase the Fever, such as we have already proposed; and although sweat doth not always follow, yet such medicines are to be continued and exhibited daylie, that so the body may by de∣grees be apt to sweat, and that nature at length of its own ac∣cord, in its own time, may expel peccant humours by sweats; but the stronger Sudorifiques at the first, debilitate Natures strength; and since the humours in these Fevers are not alwaies so disposed that they can be discussed by sweats, yet the thinner are dispersed, and the thicker remains behind. * 1.42 Wherefore pre∣paration and alteration of the humours is to be ordered by those medicines which open, and if occasion require, may cut those humours, and may resist ebullition and putrifaction, extinguish

the heat of the Fever, and resist malignity, and may by degrees dispose nature to sweats; such are Sorrel, Scordium, Carduus Benedictus, Scorzoneca, the seed of Citron, Roots of Tor∣mentil, Cinquefoyl, juice of Citron, Pomgranates, and Syrups of these, Spirit of Vitriol: when the humours are sufficiently prepared, unless Nature expel alone, they are to be evacuated by a convenient passage, but then also lenitive medicines must be used, and purgation scarce to be ordered before the fourteenth day.

If Nature tend to evacuation by urine, * 1.43 it is to be helped by an emulsion of the seeds of Melons, Citron or Limmon, Car∣duus benedictus, with the water of Sorrel, Mayden-hair, and such like.

But during the whole time of the sickness, * 1.44 as well in ma∣lignant as in pestilent Fevers, medicines are to be applied to the Pulses and heart, such as strengthen the heart, and resist ma∣lignity, which are very where extant; Symptomes also, if any urge and debilitate the strength, are to be taken away and miti∣gated, as in their own place shall be shewed.

Concerning Diet, * 1.45 the meat should be of good juice, and of easie digestion; and to beware that when the strength languisheth Nature be not over-burthened; the meats also should be mixed with such things as resist this Fever, we must abstain from wine, unless swooning fits happen, but 'tis more convenient to use small beer, a decoction also of Harts-horn may well be given, with such a quantity of Spirit of Vitriol as may render it grate∣ful to the taste, to which also some Juleps of Roses and Violets may be added: It allays thirst, likewise opens obstructions drives away putrifaction, and resisteth malignancy; of Aegyptii, as Prosper Alpinus in his fourth book of Medicines Aegypt. chap. the fourth. Pulp. of Tamarinds and Barberries, the fruits being dryed, with the seeds of Fennel or Limmon, they pour them in∣to abundance of fair water, and so prepare a Drink, which they administer to the sick during the whole time of the disease in ma∣lignant and pestilent Fevers, and confide much in the use of this Drink, since that it is found that Tamarinds and the fruit of Barberries do exceedingly resist putrifaction in Fevers.

CHAP. XII. Of a Malignant Fever, with the Measles and Small Pox.

ALthough the nature of malignity, * 1.46 from whence mali∣gnant Fevers are denominated be occult, and therefore much cannot be spoken of the differences of these Fe∣vers, yet there is not one reason only even of the same, but some variety shews it self by the effects and symptomes, whence also certain differences of malignant Fevers are are appointed, of which we will now speak in particular.

First, there happen Feavers wherein pushes or eminent tu∣bercles break forth, and sometimes certain spots shew them∣selves: the Greeks call them Exanthemata, and Ecth••mata the Latines Papulas and Pustulas, and at this day they are called the Measles and Small Pox; which names, although they are not used in the same manner by all, yet the most at this day call variolas, parvos varos, little spots or Measles, and they give this name to those pushes full of humours, which for the most par•• suppurate, which the Germans call die Bi∣atterne and Bocten; but they call those Mobillos, which are spots only in the skin, or rather small tubercles in the skin, which the Germans call die Masserne.

Variolae are pustules breaking forth in the skin and parts adjacent, * 1.47 with a continued Fever occasioned by the fervency of the blood, and sent forth by the expulsive faculty; but Morbilli are little red spots or tubercles coming out in the skin with a continued Fever, bred by the ebullition of the blood, and sent out by the expulsive faculty.

Of both kinds there are some differences; for of Variolae, some are greater, some less; some white, others yellow, or of some other colour; some break out forth with, and rise high, and are ripened and encompassed with a red circle, and come forth without any grievous symptomes, and are not dange∣rous; others are yellow, come forth slowly, and presently pitch again, and have a livid circle about them, and are dange∣rous.

To the Variolas belong those pustules also which break out of the body, and are about the bigness of Lupines, * 1.48 and shining like Christal, out of which a certain waterish substance

issueth; which some therefore call Chrystals, the Germans call them Shaffsblattern, oder Bindvocten, which are less dangerous, and without any manifest Fever for the most part they do appear.

Moreover to the Variolaes belong those tubercles coming out here and there in places, and are free from quitture, which the Germans call Steinbocten, and are for the most part the least of all the kinds of Variol. and freest from danger, which befals children often without a Fever, and are presently heal∣ed; so that Infants seldome take their beds for them,

To the Poxes or Measles certain small red tubercles do be∣long, which invade with heat, and a cough and other sym∣ptomes of the Pox, yet less dangerous then the pox; the Ge••∣mans call them die Rittein, or die Rottein, because they are red; somtimes they come alone, somtimes are mixed with the Pox, and somtimes come after the Pox is healed; which disease Halyaabas calls Rubcolam, lib. 8. Theoric. cap. 14. Moreover there are other breakings out which seem to be referr'd to Poxes, which the Neapolitans call Rossoniam and Rossaliam, as Johannes Philippus Ingrastiat of tumours speaks; by others they are called Purples, and Eruthemata, yet some call the red spots or Patechii, purples: They are red, and as it were fiery spots, because scarce worthy to be cal∣led tumours, coming out over all the body, as it were certain small Eryspelaes at the beginning of the sickness, or on the fourth or fifth day: In the progress of the disease it spreads over all the body, as if it were on fire, or as if one were sick of an universal Erysipelas, which colour, as in the beginning, so in the declination, is turned into spots, which again on the seventh or ninth day vanish, falling away from the skin like scales of Fishes.

The subject of spots and pushes is the skin, * 1.49 and other parts answering to the skin in proportion; for it hath been found in dead bodies, that the superficies of the Intrals, and on their skin without side the Pox have been setled.

Concerning the cause of these, * 1.50 there is difficult and great controversie amongst Physitians; The Arabicks, and those which follow them, attribute the cause of the small Pox and Measles to the uncleanness of the blood, contracted from the menstruous blood in the womb, by the Infant which was there nourished with it; for they say, that this filth being left in the body, doth lie still, like unto leven, until stirred; so that

the whole blood, boyls like new wine, and so whatsoever is in it of impurity, is seperated and sent to the out-side of the bo∣dy; and they therefore say so, because they observed that al∣most all men at some time are troubled with the Pox or Mea∣sles, and those which have had them once or twice, for the most part are free from them ever after.

Others are against this opinion, and say, that it proceeds from some occult celestial cause, whose impression, children being more infirm, are apter to take, then those that are strong and in years; neither do they think it probable, that Infants are nourished in the womb with unclean blood, or that this impurity can lie hidden so long in mans body, since 'tis known that not only Infants, but youths, nay such as are well in years, and old men also some times fall sick of the small Pox, which formerly have been sick of Fevers, and troubled with scabs, in whom (in case any impurity had been in the blood, it ought to have been then taken away.

But in regard both opinions contain difficulties in them, and both seem to be held up with probable arguments; let us joyn them together; for if the Pox and Measles are epidemical and infectious, 'tis not to be denied but that they then arise from a certain peculiar malignant disposition of ayr,: Then Infants, as being more tender, sooner are infected; although it cannot be denied, that from an external cause, an infirmi∣ty lying hidden within, may be brought forth into action, yet if the power of the malignity be greater, those of ripe years may somtimes be afflicted: But if the Pox or Measles come forth scattered here and there, 'tis probable that they proceed from the impurity of the womb, whereby a vitious disposition of the body is contracted by the party in the in∣fancy especially if there be no fault in the Ayr; for al∣though an infant in the womb be nourished with the purest blood of the mother, yet when it becomes bigger, and want∣eth more nourishment, it cannot be but that it must draw some of the depraved humours which are cumulated in the womb with it. Whence it is known, that Infants have been born sick of the small Pox, or had them come forth presently after they come into the world: Yet 'tis not impossible but that from ill Diet the same vitiousness may be contracted, as from the menstruous blood in the womb, and that may hap∣pen to those that have had the small Pox twice or thrice, al∣though it may likewise happen by reason of the first pollu∣tion

and defilement, of which some reliques were left.

The small Pox and Measles alwaies come forth with a Fe∣ver; * 1.51 for they are stirred up by a certain crisis, and that ebul∣lition not only happens to the subcutanial veins, but also to the greater; whence heat is communicated to the heart, and a Fever is kindled, and that Fever is made a putred Synocha, as may appear by the equal heat, and the matter contained in the Pox; and that which is gentle, often vanisheth within a few days, neither is it regarded by Infants, nor the standers by; but that which is more vehement, if the disease be to determine with safety, will abate when the Pox comes forth; somtimes these Fevers become pestilential, and then many Infants are extinguished.

And thus the small Pox and Measles are generated from internal causes; yet external causes likewise do often concur, as humours corrupting in this manner, or lying hidden, have force of moving: The first is Ayr, by reason of the influence of Stars, or causes otherwise so disposed, as that they may cor∣rupt the humours in this manner. Moreover contagion, when a certain sickly effluvium or steam from bodies diseased of the small Pox or Measles, is communicated to another body, and causeth the same disease therein.

But of Poxes and pushes there is certain differences, as hath been said, in substance, quantity, and quality. According to substance, some consist of this, some of that humour; ac∣cording to quantity, some are big and many, others small and few: according to quality, some are white, others red, yellow, livid, violet colour, &c. Some come out suddenly, others slowly; some are presently healed and vanish, others continue long; some afflict only the external parts of the body, some the internal also.

But when the Pox or Measles are coming, * 1.52 there is present pain in the head, eyes, and throat, an itching of the nostrils, sneezing, terror in sleep, fits like epileptical ones, pain on the back, burning and pricking in the skin, difficulty of breathing, a dry cough, trembling of the feet, yawning, retching, pal∣pation of the heart, which actions so hurt, proceeds from the ebullition of the blood, and fuliginous vapours sent from the heart, and dispersed over all the body. Their Urine is often like unto theirs who are in health, the peccant matter being thrust out to the extremities of the body; yet somtimes 'tis troubled by reason of the great ebullition of humours, the he∣morrhodes

of the Nose are frequent, tears use to fall from the eyes of their own accord, or the eyes shew as if they were ready to weep; somtimes vomiting happens, the face and eyes are red, the skin rough, the voice hoarse, and lastly, a Fever by the ebullition of humours is kindled; If these signs therefore for the most part are present, and are encreased on the third or fourth day, and certain red spots appear in the skin, 'tis a sign that the Pox or Measles are at hand; and this suspition is increased if the Pox reign thereabouts. A little afterwards those specks are exalted like grains of Mellet, and afterwards changed into pustules full of quitture, and are become Pox, or are extended abroad, and small tubercles are made, and the Measles are produced.

The nature of humours is principally known by the colour, * 1.53 for if the pox proceed from a cholerick humour mixt with blood, they are more red, and do itch more from Flegm, they are whiter, from melancholy blacker: somtimes likewise they are of violet colour, green, lead colour, and with greater cor∣ruption of humours: If they possess not only the skin, but also the internal parts, the Fever is greater, thence comes great difficulty of breathing, straitness of the breast, a greater cough, pain in the stomack and guts most vehement.

Small Pox and Measles are numbred amongst acute diseases, * 1.54 and are terminated within fourteen days; they come forth commonly about the fourth day, they increase till the seventh, the height is manifest the eleventh, and from thence to the fourteenth is the declination; but the drying of them conti∣nueth till the twentieth day somtimes.

The Fever adjoyned, the magnitude of symptomes, the manner of the Pox, and the strength or the sick shew the event. For if the Fever and all the other symptomes after the coming out of them do abate, if large hemorrhodes of the nose have preceded, if the pustules are great, white and red, soft eminent, not alike, come forth quickly, and are soon ripened, a good event is to be hoped for.

On the contrary, the Fever if it be great, and be not mi∣tigated after the coming out of the Pox, and the tubercles are violet colour, green, livid, haad, contiguous, come forth and ripen slowly, and the symptomes which use to be in ma∣lignant Fevers be more grievous, the strength weaker, they portend danger, and either bring death, or some great evils in the eyes, nose, chops, gullet, lungs, guts, liver, reins, and leave fil∣thy pits and scars in the skin.

There is in a manner the same reason of the Measles, which the more milde the Fever and symptomes are, the less danger; but by how much the greater, the more danger is adjoyned with them; they are sooner discerned, neither are they so loth∣som to the sight; red ones likewise, and those that soon ap∣peare are more mild, but those that are green, violet colour, black and come forth slowly are worst.

But the worst is, when the Pox or Measles come not throughly out, or do vanish again, for then by the matter left within, or returning in, a greater Fever is kindled, sym∣ptomes become greater, and the sick, for the most part, perish.

The chief scope of the cure must be, * 1.55 that since Nature strives to expel the matter to the remote parts of the body to assist it: the second is, That the pravity of the matter may be corrected: The third, That the strength may be fortified: And lastly, To take care that no part of the body receive any detriment.

The endeavours of Nature are furthered if the humours are driven out to the circumference of the body, and the impedi∣ments that may disturb the matter in its coming forth, whe∣ther it be store of matter, or pravity of it, or obstruction of the bowels must be taken away.

But because this evil principally invades Infants, * 1.56 breathing of a vein is not necessary, since their age will not tolerate it, but if it happen in an age that will bear it, and the abundance of blood require evacuation, presently at the beginning be∣fore the becoming out of them, a vein is to be opened, that nature being eased of part of its burthen, may the easier expel the remainder.

Strong Purges are not to be used, lest nature should be hindred in its endeavour, or a dangerous looseness should be occasioned; yet if the body be bound, it may be relaxed by a lenitive Medicine or Clister, which together allays the heat of the humours, and strengthens the internal parts.

Moreover we must observe whether Nature do its office in expelling; * 1.57 for then there is no need to help it with many me∣dicines, especially heating ones.

But if the Pox come out slowly, Nature should be helped with expelling Medicines; yet such things should be mixed therewith, as may strengthen the internal parts, mitigate the heat of the humours, and resist malignity.

The expelling Medicines are, Roots and Seeds of Fennel,

Turnip, Carduus benedictus, Columbine, Limmon, the Roots of white Dittany, Burnet, Maidenhair, Marigold flow∣ers, decoction of red Parsnips, Scordium, Scabions, Myrrhe, Figs, Lentiles, and other things that resist malignity.

These things cool and resist malignity, Sorrel, * 1.58 young Sor∣rel, Lettice, Waterlillies, Purcelane, Barley, Tormentil, En∣dive, Cichory, Juice of Limmons, Oxysaucharum, Rob of Currans; In giving of which, regard must be had to the malignity and Fever together, and according as need shall re∣quire, the medicines must be chosen or mixed.

Medicines of Figs, Lentiles, Lacca, and Tragacanthwere, in use amongst the Arabians, which were likewise used by lat∣ter Physitians; yet if the malignity be great, you may sly to more exquisite resisters of poyson.

But principally we must endeavour to beware that the sick take not the fresh ayr, but be rather placed in a hot place, that the pores of the skin may be kept open, and that nothing may hinder Nature in expelling,

And we must be careful also, that the eyes, nostrils, * 1.59 and in∣ternal parts may not be hurt; and therefore the Lungs are to be fortified and strengthned with medicines of Poppy, Len∣tiles, Violets, Tragacanth Roses, the guts with strengthners, and moderate binders, the eyes, and nose with such like, as their infirmities do shew they have need of. The mouth and chops should be washed with decoction of Plantane, red Ro∣ses, flowers of Pomgranates, Prunellas, Syrup of Pomgranates, and such like.

Whilst the wheals are ripening, there will be much itching, but beware of scratching, lest you thereby cause scars in the skin; if the quitture be white, and the pustules not too great, 'tis best to commit the whole business to nature; but if they are great, or many of them joyned together, when by their whiteness, softness, and freeness from pain they shall appear to be ripe enough, they may be opened with a silver or golden needle best.

Concerning Diet, * 1.60 the sick by all means must be kept from the cold ayr, neither must he be kept too hot, lest it make him faint: The manner of Diet as in other acute Fevers, is to be appointed, namely thin; yet to Infants, if their stomacks will bear it, some meat may be given, because their bodies are not diaphoretick, and by reason of their store of innate heat, cannot so well endure fasting: from meats that are salt, acrid,

flat, which may increase an ebullition of humours, we must refrain, and those that moderately cool and bind, and allay the heat of the blood, must be administred. Wine at the first is not convenient, but rather small Beer, or Barley water; but in the progress of the disease, when the symptomes slacken, to those that are accustomed to it, a little of the smallest wine may be granted.

There ought to be temperate moderation of the other non-naturals likewise, watchings and sleep, the sick should sleep moderately: In the beginning of the Pox or Measles, there should be gentle frictions of the legs and arms used, whereby the humours might be called out to the circumference of the body. 'Tis in use to put a red cloth to the bed in the sight of the sick, to cause motion of humours to the exteriour parts. The Belly should be kept open with a gentle Clyster, if need require: Lastly, all vehement perturbations of the mind must be avoided, especially anger and fear.

CHAP. XIII. Of the Spotted Fever.

MOreover, another sort of malignant Fever is, * 1.61 when certain spots like the biting of gnats appear in the skin; There are of divers colours, but principally red, called by Authors Puncticulae, Peticulae, and Patechiae, whence the Fevers are also called Peticulares, Patechiales, Lenticulares.

These spots are without all itching, extuberancies, and ul∣ceration, as in Poxes; and these spots in these Fevers appear principally in the back, arms, legs, and breasts, namely in pla∣ces through which the most eminent veins and arteries do pass, but in the face they do seldom appear, because it is alwaies ob∣vious to the external Ayr.

These spots have their original from the thinner parts of the putred and corrupt humour, * 1.62 whence they suddenly come out and vanish; but although they are made by the expulsive faculty, driving this part of the corrupt humour to the extre∣mities of the body; yet that seldom happens critically, because they come out for the most part at the beginning, the matter being not as yet concocted, neither is there any notable eva∣cuation of the matter made by them, nor the sick are not the better for them, but for the most part by how much the more plentifully they come forth, by so much the greater store of corrupt matter is indicated, which notwithstanding as is said already, is not sufficiently evacuated by those spots.

There are of those spots several differences; for first, * 1.63 they differ in colour, some are red, arising from the more temperate blood putrified; others yellow & green, when choler is putrified; others, Pomgranet colour and black, when melancholy, putrifi∣eth. Moreover they differ in quantity, for some come out more plentifully, others more sparingly; some are greater, others less, according to the quantity and thickness of the humour, and strength or weakness of nature: some come out at the be∣ginning, others in the progress of the disease.

This Fever is known by the signs of Malignant Fevers in general already set down; and when the spots joyn together, * 1.64 they shew malignity more plainly.

But what event of these Fevers may be hoped for, is mani∣fest

by the prognosticks of malignant Fevers in general. * 1.65 Con∣cerning the spots themselves, although it be good that the pec∣cant matter be carried to the extremities of the body, yet by these spots they cannot sufficiently be evacuated; therefore al∣though if they are plentiful, they shew that store of matter is present; yet they shake it not of, and therefore they portend danger rather then health: Neither is their paucity always good, and although it signifie no store of matter, yet it also denotes debility of nature: These spots (if they lie hidden) are evil signs; because they shew that the matter which before was coming to the outside of the body, does now tend inwards, and go to the head, heart, or some internal part. Red spots are most safe, yellow and green worse, and pomgranate colour and black most dangerous. Although such as come out at the first appear symptoma••••cal, yet those that break forth the seventh day, or thereabouts, are critical: yet unless other good signs are present, put no confidence in them, because they do not sufficiently evacuate the matter; but if they come out slowly, 'tis evil; for that happens either by reason of the thickness of the matter, into which if the malignity fall, 'tis not easily overcome, or else by reason of density of the skin, which hin∣dreth free transpiration.

Lastly concerning the cure, * 1.66 those things that are spoken a∣bout the cure of malignant Fevers, are here also convenient, namely, the belly is to be loosned either by Clister or lenitive medicine; or if the matter tend upward, and the sick be in∣clinable to vomit, a Vomit must be given.

Then if occasion require, * 1.67 a vein is to be opened before the fourth day, or else afterwards to be omitted; but whether the spots now coming forth do hinder the breathing of a vein, is shewed in the Institutions lib. 5. part. 2. sect. 1. cap. 17.

But since nature it self strives to protrude the matter we see to the extremities of the body, and 'tis profitable in all ma∣lignant diseases to drive out the matter from the greater to the lesser vessels, and to free the bowels from vitious humours, the endeavours of nature is here to be assisted, * 1.68 and the matter tending to the outmost parts of the body, is by it to be eva∣cuated; because that otherwise that which is malignant will admit of no concoction.

Therefore let the sick be kept in a place moderately hot, and forthwith some Sudorifique medicine, and which also may re∣sist malignity given, such as are before propounded for the

plague and malignant Fevers in general, and for the Measles and small Pox; yet those are to be selected amongst them that may not increase the feverish heat; and the Fever and the malignity are to be weighed together, and of that which most requires it, regard must be taken.

Somtimes a looseness happens in this Fever, * 1.69 which unless it be too great, should not be stopped, but the business should be committed to nature, and in the interim, only with al∣tering medicines, and such as resist malignity, the morbifique cause must be resisted.

Afterwards to fortifie nature, Pearls, Coral, Hartshorn, juice of Pomgranates, Citron, Confectio de Hyacintho, Al∣kermes, and such like are to be exhibited.

Externally likewise medicines are to be applied to the region of the heart, and to the pulses, * 1.70 which draw venome from the heart, and resist malignity, and some use an unction ex Hy∣draeolo, and niter to relax the skin, and draw out humours.

Neither is it unprofitable to apply vesiccatories to the arms, * 1.71 especially if the external parts are cold, and the internal burn, and that pains in the head, deliriums, a lethargy, and other symptomes in the head are present; for so both the humours are called from within outwards, and are likewise refelled from the head.

CHAP. XIV. Of the English Sweat.

THere was a kind of Fever malignant, * 1.72 which began in England in the year 1486. and thence it took the name of the English Sweat, and it reigned there about forty years, and killed almost an infinite number of Englishmen: Hence being spread through the Netherlands, Germany, the Low Countries, Holland, Zeland, Brabant in Belgia, Flan∣ders, Dane, Norway, France, it continued until the year 1530.

The same Fever was accompanied with Sweats, and was called the Sudatory Fever; for those which were troubled with this Fever, abounded with Sweat, without Bubo, Carbuncle, or puttings forth; the sweat perpetually and in great abun∣dance coming out, until the dissolution of the disease, which hapned within twenty four hours space: Together the sick languished, deficient in mind, with unquietness, troubled at heart, pain in the head, and also with palpitation of the heart, and they had a pulse, thick, frequent, swift, and unequal; and the palpitation of the heart accompanied those that esca∣ped, oftentimes some years, somtimes till death.

But the cause of this disease was inherent in the most subtile parts of the blood and spirits, * 1.73 which were together affected, which the shortness of the disease argues, and without doubt the blood and spirits contracted this malignity from some evil disposition of Ayr, and other corruption; whence also this disease in many places in the Low Countries with cloudy ayr, suddenly invaded men, and the birds also were found dead un∣der the Trees, and 'twas observed that they had pustules under their wings like Vetches or Tares: But what manner of cor∣ruption of the Ayr it was, can scarce be explained.

For this was a most cruel disease, * 1.74 and within the space of twenty four hours, it either killed men, or left them senseless: and indeed at the first when this disease did invade any City, it troubled them fifty or sixty times, but it scarce troubled them the hundredth time.

But the chief business of the cure consisted in the promotion of sweat, * 1.75 and weakning venome, which nature of its own ac∣cord endeavoured; for all those that did not further the sweats,

nor use cordials, and took fresh ayr, died within four and twenty hours.

In occasioning Sweats, the strength must be regarded, which in case it be weak, the sweat must so be moderated, that there∣by it may not be debilitated more, and dejected: for 'tis ob∣served, that by too much causing sweat, and whilst the sick be∣yond their power to suffer, are cover'd in their beds, abundance of men have been stifled: During sweating, the sick should be hindred from sleep.

They used to occasion sweat, and infringe the malignity, water or Sorrel, Scabious, Terra Sigillata, Bolearmenick, Dit∣tany, Carduus benedictus, Zedoaric, Tormentil, Waterlillies, Burrage; Species liberantis is also proper, and such like, which use to be applied in malignant Fevers, and the Pox. During the Sweats, the sick should be refreshed with the juice of the Syrup of Citron, Pomgranates, Sorrel, and other things be∣fore mentioned about the plague. Odoraments should also be applied to the Nose. When the sick hath sweat enough, some of the weight of the clothes should be abated by degrees, and the sweat at last diligently wiped off and cleansed.

CHAP. XV. Of the Ungarick Disease.

AMongst the malignant Fevers, * 1.76 there is also a disease cal∣led the Ungarick, because it was first known in Hun∣gary in the year 1556. and thence 'tis thought 'twas spread almost over all Europe, Indeed some think the patechial Fever, and the Ungarick Disease are the same; and 'tis true that spots often happen in that, but not alwaies is it so, and the name of a patechial Fever is extended larger then the Un∣garick disease; for this is a certain kind of malignant Fever, or if it have spots, and is patechial, yet this disease is bred in Camps by reason of evil Diet, whence we think it to be pro∣perly called the Military disease, or the Disease of the Camps, because that not only in former times in Hungary, but else∣where, it wandred up and down in the Camps hitherto, and thence is dispersed up and down. But there is a malignant and infectious Fever called Morbus Ungaricus; 'tis continu∣ed, and hath great store of vitious humours about the stomack and first passages joyned therewith.

The proximate cause of this Fever is putrefaction, * 1.77 the causes and malignant corruption of the humors in the vena cava. But they are cumulated and corrupted by errors of Diet, and first by default of the Ayr, which in Hungary is extream thick and in the night filled with clouds, or if they are discussed, 'tis very thin and in the Summer time most hot; and otherwise, likewise in the Camps 'tis not most profitable; because that in them it is most common to lie un∣der the open canopy, and to draw the vapours which come from the ayr and the rain, and when their clothes are wet, cannot change them, and in winter time are often penn'd up in little hot-houses. Moreover bad diet may be a cause of this disease, wherewith Souldiers (for want of better) are forced to make shift with, and those for the most part which are accu∣stomed to fare better; hence because good chyle cannot be ge∣nerated by evil diet, and the errors of the first concoction cannot be corrected in the second, many filthy humours are collected within the first passages, which with the chyle are carried to the Liver, and thence into the veins, and from that evil chyle bad blood is generated, which even voluntarily tends

to corruption and putrifaction, and at length an unprofitable disposition of ayr coming, it doth not only putrifie, but be∣comes maligne. Whence not only a putred continued Fever, * 1.78 but also a malignant is stirred up, and one that is also infecti∣ous, which may also infect those that have no ill humours in their bodies, whence the symptomes do somthing differ. And as according to Diet, scituation, and other circumstances, the matter occasioning a disease is not alwaies the same, so there happens differences in the symptomes joyned with the Fever. Nay in the Fever it self there ariseth certain differences in re∣gard of the peccant humour, whence from some arise putred Synochas, from others burning cholerick Fevers: But although great store of peccant matter, as hath been said, occasioned by evil diet, be collected for the most part in the stomack and first passages, yet that is not the containing cause of the Fever, but only symptomatical, stirr'd up by the Feverish heat, especially in the beginning of the disease, that it causeth pain in the heart, anxiety, burning about the midrif, and vomiting, and increaseth and cherisheth the Fever it self.

And all other symptomes which appear in other malignant Fevers, may here also be present, * 1.79 and for the most part spots and specks appear; but amongst other things, the pain of the head for the most part is exceeding troublesome; thence this disease amonst the vulgar took its name die hauptcranct∣heit. Most that take this disease from ill diet, do complain of pain in the stomack, and under the pointed gristle, where a certain retention and hardness is likewise observed. There is great thirst presently at the beginning, and the tongue dry and rough, a little after they are troubled with deliriums, which are gone again when the matter falls down to the ears, and then deafness ensueth.

'Tis an acute disease, * 1.80 and is terminated at most in about fourteen days commonly, yet in some not until twenty days. But what event of this disease may be hoped for, is manifest by what hath been already said concerning malignant Fevers in general; namely, by how much the strength is the greater, and the symptomes lesser, by so much is there the more hopes of recovery; on the contrary, by how much the symptomes are the greater and more, and the strength weaker, by so much the more danger; with some when a looseness happens, 'tis a good crisis, but to most when the matter ascends to the head, and thence down to the ears, and deafness followeth, 'tis an ar∣gument of health.

But as in other malignant Fevers, so likewise in this, the curing must be performed by taking away what feeds it, and resisting the malignant quality, yet the symptomes are not to be neglected.

And first concerning the Fever, * 1.81 and its cause in those that have contracted this disease from ill diet, or in the camps, this thing happens that the vitious humours are not only contain∣ed in the vena cava, as in other Synochas and burning Fe∣vers, but there is great store of humours lies hidden in the stomack, and about the first passages, which is known by the antecedent diet, pain in the stomack, anxiety, heat about the midrif, and vomiting; for then that matter is forthwith to be evacuated, as being such as doth severally exist, separated from the other humours, it will not come to any concoction, but corrupts both meat and medicines being taken, and Sudo∣rifiques and other medicines which are taken, are carried into the more destructive parts of the body, and it increaseth the Fever.

But this may be done by purging, * 1.82 amongst the medicines Agarick is principally commended, then also Vomits, by which oftentimes great store of Flegmatick and Cholerick humours, of all kinds are evacuated, which lay hidden about the stomack: But for those which took the disease only by infection, and in whom peccant humours are not collect∣ed in the stomack by reason of ill Diet; there is no need of Vomits or Purgation, but 'tis sufficient only to evacuate the first passages by lenitives.

When the first passages shall be freed from peccant humours, * 1.83 forthwith the first or second day a vein must be opened, if it be necessary, and the strength of the sick will bear it; but in case some days are slipt over, and the strength be weakned, and the party be troubled with vomiting, or have a looseness, the breathing of a vein is to be omitted. The vein should be opened in the arm, or if the party be weak, in the ancle, which likewise conveniently refels the matter from the head, and in this disease is very profitable.

Nature being thus eased of its burthen, * 1.84 forthwith Sudo∣rifiques, and such medicines as resist malignity are to be given, yet they are so to be temper'd, as that they may not increase the heat of the humours, nor augment the Fever. Here Harts-horn prepared, bezoar stone, Antimonium, Diapho∣reticum, Bez••ardicum minerale, Terra Sigillata, Pulvis Cae∣saris

rubeus, Montaynanae, Species liberantis, and other such like before mentioned about malignant and pestilent Fevers in general is manifest. If we may use Mithridate, Treacle, and such like, that are hot, by reason of the vehemency of the ma∣lignity, lest the heat should be increased, they are to be allayed with cold waters and vinegar, to which there may convenient∣ly be added spirit of Vitriol and Tartar, but 'tis not suffici∣ent once only to use such medicines to provoke sweat, or twice, but again and daylie to corroborate the spirits, resist maligni∣ty and putrifaction, yet in a lesser quantity then usual, and moreover species Elect. de Gemmis, temperate Cordials, Dia∣margarit. Frigid. Confectio de Hyacintho, Sper. Viniol and Tartar, Bezoar water, and other things before mentioned in the cure of the Plague, and other malignant Fevers.

Externally likewise to the heart is to be applied, * 1.85 and to the Pulses Medicines, as also the spirits are to be preserved with odoraments, and the malignity to be resisted; which were also mentioned before in the cure of the Plague, and other mali∣gnant Fevers.

Lastly, * 1.86 the Diet should be the same as in malignant Fevers is expressed, and indeed the aliment to resist putrifaction should be dry; to abate the Fever, cold, and mixed with Cordials, or have cordial qualities: Wine in this Fever is hurtful, and for the most part those that refrain it not, die.

CHAP. XVI. Of a Malignant Fever with the Cramp.

THere are likewise other malignant Fevers, * 1.87 which had ac∣companied with them certain other diseases, namely the Cramp, Catarhs, a Cough, and the Squincy; for in the year 1596, and 1597. in the Bishoprick of Collen, West∣phalia, the County Waldestein, Wittenstein, and Hassia, there reigned a disease joyned with a Fever, which they then called die Kriebeltcranctheir, Kriempstsucht, oder Bi∣chende Senche.

It seized upon men with a twitching and kind of benum∣medness in the hands and feet, somtimes on one side, somtimes on the other, and somtimes on both: Hence a Convulsion invaded men on a sudden when they were about their daylie employments, and first the fingers and toes were troubled, which Convulsion afterwards came to the arms, knees, shoul∣ders, hips, and indeed the whole body, until the sick would lie down, and roul up their bodies round like a Ball, or else stretch out themselves straight at length: Terrible pains ac∣companied this evil, and great clamours and schrietchings did the sick make; some vomited when it first took them. This disease somtimes continued some days or weeks in the limbs, before it seized on the head, although fitting medicines were administred; which if they were neglected, the head was then presently troubled, and some had Epilepsies, after which fits some lay as it were dead six or eight hours, others were troubled with drowsiness, others with giddiness, which continued till the fourth day, and beyond with some, which either blindness or deafness ensued, or the Palsie: When the fit left them, men were exceeding hungry contrary to nature; afterwards for the most part a looseness followed, and in the most, the hands and feet swell'd or broke out with swellings full of waterish hu∣mours, but sweat never ensued. This disease was infectious, and the infection would continue in the body being taken once, six, seven, or twelve moneths.

This disease had its original from pestilential thin hu∣mours first invading the brain and all the nerves; * 1.88 but those malignant humours proceeded from bad diet when there was scarcity of provision.

This disease was grievous, dangerous, and hard to be cured, for such as were stricken with an Epilepsie, were scarce totally cured at all, but at intervals would have some fits, and such as were troubled with deliriums, became stupid. Others eve∣ry yeer in the month of December and January, would be troubled with it.

The Cure consisted in evacuating of the peccant humors, and corroborating of the Nerves. First, * 1.89 therefore the vitious humors are to be purged out of the first passages with Hermo∣dactils, Turbith, Spurge prepared, Diagrydium Electuary, called Diaphenicum, of the juyce of Roses, there being added Caster, Costus, seed of Rue and Commin.

Afterwards Medicins against the Convulsion, were given of Piony, Birdly me of the Oak, Caster, Sage, Mans skull ad∣ding thereto medicines resisting malignity, with the root of Swallow-wort, Divels bit, Treacle, Mithridate; and so pur∣ging and altering medicines are to be taken by turns, and con∣tinued: The external parts were anointed and fomented with those medicines which were proper for other Convulsions.

CHAP. XVII. Of a malignant Fever, with a Catarrh, and a Cough, and the Squincy.

SOmtimes an Epidemical Catarrh and Cough accompany Malignant Fevers; * 1.90 such a Fever in the year 1510. 1557. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 1580. and 1591. and especially in the year 1580. spread o∣ver most parts of Europe under the Northern Equinoctial And that disease was then called a Feverish Catarrh, and a Chatarrish Fever, also a suffocating Fever, der Bien und Schafshusten, Shafteranctheit und hus Nerwehe.

This Fever came with heaviness in sleep, pain of the head, a dry cough, pain of the breasts, hoarseness, pain of the stomack, difficulty of breathing, which even when the cough ceased would continue till the fourteenth day.

This Fever proceeded from the moistness of the fort-going years; * 1.91 for when peccant humours were cumulated in the bo∣dy, by reason of that irregularity of the ayr, and at length be∣came putred, and malignant, and adverse to the head and breast; thence a continued Fever was kindled, and with part of the peccant humours gotten into the brain and breasts, a ca∣tarrh and cough was generated.

This disease, although most men had it, yet it was not mortal; for almost all men had it, and scarce one of a thou∣sand died therewith.

This Fever was cured as other malignant Fevers, * 1.92 also by re∣garding the putrifaction and malignity, and lastly, in having respect to the head and breast, which were principally troubled with this Catarrh and Cough.

Breathing a vein was not then proper, and it was found by experience, that for the most part they all died that were let blood.

But lenitive purgers were proper, because the matter did reside in the first wayes; afterwards there was administred such things as might alter the matter in the head and breast, as use to be given for a Catarrh and a Cough, and those things that resisted malignity were not to be neglected.

Lastly, * 1.93 sometimes a Squincy, Pleurisie, Peripneumonia, is joyned with a malignant Fever, and spreads over many places, as it hapned in the year 1348. as Fracastorius relates, and in

the year 1557. as Dodonaeus in chap. 21. of his observations witnesseth, and in the year 1564. likewise.

VVhich Fevers for the most part did arise from the contra∣riety of ayr, and principally from its over-moist constrution, even as epidemial dysenteries arose from precedent driness of the ayr, such as hapned in the year 158••, and 1626.

Those Fevers were cured as others that were malignant. But this is to be noted besides, * 1.94 that regard must be taken of that part wherein the force of the disease or symptome joyned there∣with resides most, and the disease and symptome which accom∣pany the malignant Fever should be cured in the same manner as is propounded in the cure of particular diseases.

CHAP. XVIII. Of the Cure of Symptomatical Fevers.

LAstly, * 1.95 there often happens in Fevers various symptomes, which are no less troublesome to the sick then the Fe∣vers themselves, and therefore they require cure by them∣selves, and should be taken away, or abated. Such are first pain of the head, too much watching profound sleep, delitiums, convulsions, ••p••epsies, driness of the tongue, thirst, pain of the heart, looseness, faintings and swoonings: All which proceed from the humour that was the cause of the Fever, or from vapours and fumes proceeding from it, and so molesteth this or that part either with its plenty, excess of primary qua∣lities or malignancy.

Universal Pu••gers first used, these symptomes are taken a∣way by revessing, repeling, eissipating that matter from the part affected, to the more remote parts; as need shall require that excess o•• qualities wherewith they are most troubled, to be altered and corrected, or even the malignity, if there be any, must be oppugne•• with contrary remedies, and the parts, if occasion requisie, strengthned; or the symptomes themselves must be resisted with proper remedies. All which how to be performed, in particular to explain, is beyond the purpose of our Institutions, but practical books should be advised with concerning it, and especially the cause of each symptome must be diligently sought out; because the same symptome often proceeds from divers causes; and moreover cannot always be be cured with the same Medicine.

Glory and Thanksgiving be to God.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  What the Plague is.
• * 1.2

  The plague a disease of the heart
• * 1.3

  Whether the nature of the plague con∣sist in pu∣trifaction.
• * 1.4

  Definition of it.
• * 1.5

  A cause
• * 1.6

  Ayr.
• * 1.7

  Common Diet.
• * 1.8

  Poysonous things.
• * 1.9

  Imagina∣tion.
• * 1.10

  Infection.
• * 1.11

  Infection how many ways it is spread.
• * 1.12

  Diagno∣stick signs
• * 1.13

  Progno∣sticks
• * 1.14

  Preserva∣tives.
• * 1.15

  Purging.
• * 1.16

  Diet.
• * 1.17

  The Ayr how to be purified.
• * 1.18

  How every man ought to fortifie himself a∣gainst the Plague.
• * 1.19

  Amulets
• * 1.20

  Alexi∣pharnicks.
• * 1.21

  Cure.
• * 1.22

  Breathing a Vein.
• * 1.23

  Purgation.
• * 1.24

  Use of Ale∣xiphar∣micks.
• * 1.25

  Cure of Buboes.
• * 1.26

  Cure of Carbuncles
• * 1.27

  The plague pestilent and mali∣gnant Fe∣vers, how they differ.
• * 1.28

  To what kind of Fe∣vers pesti∣lent and malignant ones be∣long.
• * 1.29

  The diffe∣rences of pestilent and mali∣gnant Fe∣vers.
• * 1.30

  Cause.
• * 1.31

  The Dia∣nostick signs of pestilent Fevers.
• * 1.32

  Of mali∣gnant.
• * 1.33

  Progno∣sticks.
• * 1.34

  Cure.
• * 1.35

  The Cure of the plague in particular. Sudorificks Bleeding
• * 1.36

  Purging.
• * 1.37

  Vomits.
• * 1.38

  Vesicato∣ries.
• * 1.39

  Cure of a malignant Fever in particular. Purging,
• * 1.40

  Bleeding.
• * 1.41

  Sudori∣ficks.
• * 1.42

  Altering preparing medicines.
• * 1.43

  Causing Urine.
• * 1.44

  Topical things.
• * 1.45

  Diet.
• * 1.46

  Small Pox and Mea∣sles.
• * 1.47

  Definition.
• * 1.48

  Differen∣ces.
• * 1.49

  Subject.
• * 1.50

  Cause.
• * 1.51

  Whether any and what Fe∣ver may be joyned with the Small Pox and Mea∣sles.
• * 1.52

  Diagno∣stick signs.
• * 1.53

  Signs of Causes, and of the part affected.
• * 1.54

  Progno∣sticks.
• * 1.55

  Indicati∣ons and Cure.
• * 1.56

  Bleeding.
• * 1.57

  Expelling thing.
• * 1.58

  Cooling things.
• * 1.59

  How the parts are to be defend∣ed.
• * 1.60

  Diet.
• * 1.61

  Patechiae
• * 1.62

  The cause.
• * 1.63

  Difference.
• * 1.64

  Diagno∣stick signs.
• * 1.65

  Progno∣sticks.
• * 1.66

  Cure.
• * 1.67

  Bleeding.
• * 1.68

  Sweats
• * 1.69

  When a looseness comes, what must be done.
• * 1.70

  Topical medicines.
• * 1.71

  Vesiccato∣ries.
• * 1.72

  The En∣glish sweat
• * 1.73

  The cause
• * 1.74

  Progno∣sticks.
• * 1.75

  Cure.
• * 1.76

  Of the Hungari∣an disease.
• * 1.77

  The causes.
• * 1.78

  Nature of the Unga∣rick dis∣ease.
• * 1.79

  Diagno∣stick signs:
• * 1.80

  Progno∣sticks
• * 1.81

  Purging.
• * 1.82

  Purging
• * 1.83

  Bleeding
• * 1.84

  Sudori∣fiques.
• * 1.85

  External things.
• * 1.86

  Diet.
• * 1.87

  A malig∣nant Fe∣ver with the Cramp.
• * 1.88

  The cause
• * 1.89

  Cure.
• * 1.90

  A malig∣nant Fe∣ver with a Catarrh and a Cough.
• * 1.91

  The causes.
• * 1.92

  Cure.
• * 1.93

  A malig∣nant fever with a Squincy.
• * 1.94

  Cure.
• * 1.95

  Symptomee of Fevers.