he best.

Housemaid's Knee.--To cure a swelling on the knee-joint is, as a rule,
easy. _Rest_ is a first and paramount necessity. Bathing with hot
water, not too hot for comfort, for at least an hour each day is
usually sufficient. If the knee has been blistered, or leeched, it is
more difficult to cure; but a cure may be expected if the bathing be
continued for a long enough time. It is best done by wrapping a cloth
dipped in vinegar round the knee, and placing the foot in a bath, then
pouring hot water on the bandaged knee, lifting it from the bath in a
jug.

When pain in bending is felt in the very centre of the knee-joint, this
hot pouring may be needed for a month, or even longer. During the
intervals of pouring a large cold compress should be worn, first well
oiling the knee. Cover the compress with oiled silk. This will soften
even a very stiff knee, so as at least to bring about ability to bend
without pain. Of course, if there is any disjointing, good surgical aid
must be had, if possible, to replace the bones in their natural
position.

Hydrocele.--_See_ Dropsy.

Hysteria.--This is usually brought on by some excessive strain upon the
brain nerves, and may show itself either in the violent or in the
fainting form; it may even pass from the one to the other, fainting
alternating with violent movements and cries. It may often be checked
by plunging the patient's hands into _cold_ water.

In the silent stage, where sometimes unconsciousness continues for
hours, a dry blanket should be laid on a bed, and another blanket must
be rolled up and prepared with hot water as directed in Fomentation.
Fold this until it is the size and shape of the patient's back, and lay
her down on it, so that the whole back is well fomented. Take care not
to burn the patient: soothing heat, not irritation, is required.
Consciousness will usually return almost immediately. All except
attendants should be excluded from the room. Allow the patient to rest
in this comfortable warmth until signs of discomfort appear, then
gently rub the back with hot olive oil, dry, and leave to rest or sleep
if possible. Do all with great _steadiness of temper and kindness_;
such a condition in the nurse is especially essential in these cases.
Where the fit is violent, apply every mental soothing influence
available, and remove from the room all excited persons. Then apply
cold cloths to the spine to soothe the irritated nerves and brain. Two
ma