Note 296 — ON THE THEORY AND ART OF PRESCRIBING. (continued 2)

It is perhaps not generally known, that the sugared plumbs sold to children consist very frequently of Plaister of Paris; the introduction of such a substance into the intestines may often prove a source of mischief. I also understand, that it is no uncommon fraud to adulterate biscuits with the same substance. I confess I felt a great inclination to oppose the practice, lately suggested, of improving bad flour by the addition of Magnesia; I object to the introduction of any foreign and insoluble substance into our daily bread, and I am satisfied that the result of medical experience will sanction such an objection.