known
chemist of New York, has succeeded in dissolving Radium. Experiments
have been made, in the Flower Hospital, with the solution thus
produced, proving that it retains all the activity of pure Radium, and
that it is assuredly curative of Cancer in some of its external forms.
The solution is used in direct contact with the diseased part. Again,
what are known as " rain cures" find many enthusiastic advocates of
late; particularly in the States: (Texas, e.g.). All that is required
of the patient is to stand in the open air, with the body bare of all
clothing, and to let the falling rain pour thereon. For certain nervous
disorders, of a strengthless type, and for chronic rheumatism, the
treatÂment is almost infallible. " One good drenching shower of rain,
followed by a brisk rubbing down, has likewise cured scores of cases of
obstinate colds." This treatÂment is believed to have originated at
Austin, where many persons have now become thoroughly convinced of the
benefits conferred by rain baths. Since such a method of cure became
popular numerous back-gardens at Austin are surrounded by high boarded
fences, which serve to screen the citizens while pursuing the
treatment; this being described as " not only invigorating, and an
absolute nerve restorative, but also at the same time highly agreeable."
The
virtues of rain water (thus outwardly applied to the skin surface) are
exercised because of its containing, as chemists explain, air, carbonic
acid, some traces of nitric acid, salts, and organic matter. To the
carbonate of ammonia which is present they attribute the softness of
rain-water. Carbonate of lime is another constituent. Brandes
discovered various other substances therein, viz., chloride of sodium
(common salt), chloride of
