The following is an abstract of the above paper. It begins by saying that :—

So many cases of insanity consist of simple brain excitement, and in so many more is excitement the most distressing symptom, that if we could discover any agent which would subdue this excitement, and at the same time not interfere with the improved nutrition of the brain which rest, tonics, and good diet will effect, and on which complete recovery of its normal functions depends, such an agent would be a most incalculable blessing. There are many cases in which a physician knows that if he could tide over his patient for a few weeks of excitement, recovery would come as the natural termmination of the attack. Much distruct of strong narcotics prevails among the profession since Dr. Anstie's work on “Stimulants and Narcotics” appeared. And yet how is such a case of maniacal excitement to be managed without them out of a lunatic asylum? The exact condition of the brain cells in mania being as yet quite unknown, we cannot apply a direct antidote. At best we can only work empirically. But our empiricism may be founded on a rational and scientific examination of the effects of the drugs we use, and the natural history of the disease we treat, or it may be a mere haphazard employment of some agent recommended by some one who had no rational ground for his recommendation at all.