Note 80 — Chapter XXV

I have seen a pretty singular Consequence from the Abuse of mercurial Unction for the Itch; whether it happened from the Strength or Quantity of the Ointment, or from taking Cold after applying it, as this Subject, a healthy Youth of about sixteen, probably did, by riding three or four Miles through the Rain. But without any other previous Complaint, he awoke quite blind one Morning, wondering, as he said, when it would be Day. His Eyes were very clear, and free from Inflammation, but the Pupil was wholly immoveable, as in a Gutta serena. I effected the Cure by some moderate Purges repeated a few Times; by disposing him to sweat by lying pretty much in Bed (it being towards Winter) and by promoting his Perspiration, chiefly with Sulphur: after which the shaved Scalp was embrocated with a warm nervous Mixture, in which Balsam of Peru was a considerable Ingredient. In something less than three Weeks he could discern a glowing Fire, or the bright Flame of a Candle. As his Sight increased, he discerned other Objects, which appeared for some Days inverted to him, with their Colours confused; but Red was most distinguishable. He discovered the Aces sooner than other Cards; and in about six or seven Weeks recovered his full Sight in all its natural Strength, which he now enjoys. K.