is then presented, and free cauterization with the
firing iron becomes necessary.

At this point a word of explanation in reference to this operation of
firing may be appropriate for the satisfaction of any among our readers
who may entertain an exaggerated idea of its severity and possible
cruelty.

The operation is one of simplicity, but is nevertheless one which, in
order to secure its benefits, must be reserved for times and occasions
of which only the best knowledge and highest discretion should be
allowed to judge. It is not the mere application of a hot iron to a
given part of the body which constitutes the operation of firing. It is
the methodical and scientific introduction of heat into the structure
with a view to a given effect upon a diseased organ or tissue by an
expert surgeon. The first is one of the degrees of mere burning. The
other is scientific cauterization, and is a surgical manipulation which
should be committed exclusively to the practiced hand of the veterinary
surgeon.

Either firing alone or stimulation with blisters is of great efficacy
for the relief of lameness from bone spavin. Failure to produce relief
after a few applications and after allowing a sufficient interval of
rest should be followed by a second or, if needed, a third firing.

In case of further failure there is a reserve of certain special
operations which have been tried and recommended, among which those of
cunean tenotomy, periosteotomy, the division of nervous branches, etc.,
may be mentioned. These, however, belong to the peculiar domain of the
veterinary practitioner, and need not now engage our attention.

FRACTURES.

In technical language a fracture is a "solution of continuity in the
structure or substance of a bone." It ranks among the most serious of
the lesions to which the horse--or any animal--can be subject. It is a
subject of special interest to veterinarians and horse owners in view of
the fact that it occurs in such a variety of forms and subjects the
patient to much loss of time, resulting in the suspension of his earning
capacity. Though of less serious consequence in the horse than in man,
it is always a matter of grave import. It is always slow and tedious in
healing and is frequently of doubtful and unsatisfactory result.

This solution of continuity may take place in two principal ways. In the
most numerous instances it includes the total thickness of the bone and
is a complete fracture. In oth