Letter 0116

Posted on August 2, 2016 by -

Alexander Cunningham to Hans Sloane – n.d. [pre-1716]


Item info

Date: n.d. [pre-1716]
Author: Alexander Cunningham
Recipient: Hans Sloane

Library: British Library, London
Manuscript: Sloane MS 4075
Folio: f. 39


Original Page


Transcription

Discussed herbs of interest in that part of the country, as well as the old Roman camps. Promises to trace some of them for the use of the Royal Society.



Patient Details

  • Patient info
    Name: Sir Thomas Samwell
    Gender:
    Age:
  • Description

    Fever, heat and swelling of is face.

  • Diagnosis

    Possibly smallpox

  • Treatment
    Previous Treatment:

    Sloane had previously prescribed treatment. For fever and swelling of the face he was bled (at jugular -- by leeches -- and arm ), given "Clypters and cooling Emulsions" and "decoction coccini" for his ordinary drink as well as elder tea and small beer. He was given "Alexipharmick potion" to make him sweat. He also had a blister on the neck, purges and clysters. There was no time for vomiting. Also tried the pearl cordial.


    Ongoing Treatment:

    Everything had also agreed with Sloane's advice.


    Response:

    Problems have abated and "carried off the marks of he small pox wt it." Samwell will see Sloane in London. Cunningham assured Sloane that Samwell does not have smallpox "so that you will not be afraid to see him."

  • More information
  • Medical problem reference
    Smallpox, Fevers, Inflammations