buttermilk (_see_ Buttermilk Poultice) may be applied first, and
afterwards the weak acid. Secure that there be felt, before the close
of each application, a _slight smarting_, to show that the acid has
really soaked in. It is not difficult to guard against its spreading in
a family or school. All that need be done is, once a week or so, to see
that the whole skin of those exposed to infection, head included, is
freshened by a wash all over with vinegar, and then protected with a
gentle rub of olive oil. If this is done we should have little fear of
contagion. Such a weekly freshening would ward off other evils as well
as this one.

Rose.--_See_ Erysipelas.

Rupture.--The abdomen is formed of a series of _rings_ containing the
bowels, and holding them in proper position. If the muscles and tissues
holding these rings _yield_ so as to permit them to separate a little,
what is called "rupture" takes place. It may be caused by violent
muscular efforts, heavy weight lifting, jumping from a height, etc.,
etc. The rings are not broken, but only displaced, and especially with
young persons, the "rupture" can soon be brought all right, but even
with the aged, in all cases it may be mitigated, if not cured, by
proper treatment.

The first thing is to replace any part of the bowels which may have
escaped through the opening of the rings. Lay the patient flat on his
back. He must not be treated in any other attitude. Then rub the
swelling gently _downwards_. It _must not_ be rubbed upwards, or it
will be made worse. This rubbing will soon bring the bowel into its
proper place. Give some time and kindly care to this treatment, which
is very important. Then get a surgical instrument maker to fit a proper
truss. See that this really fits. If it hurts in any way when first put
on, it does not fit well enough. Avoid for a considerable time any
effort likely to strain the part. Take light and easily digested food;
give up all alcoholic drinks and the use of tobacco.

Saliva.--_See_ Digestion; Nourishment.

Saltrome.--The disease known by this name in Canada breaks out in the
hands, especially on the palms. The skin cracks open and refuses to
heal up. Sometimes, if the hands do heal, the trouble comes out on
other parts. It is probably due to the long-continued use of bad and
strongly irritating soap in washing the hands and face, conjoined, in
Canada, with the great dryness of the air.

The treatment for prevention is t