es, which constitute
inflammation, are not so hastily distended as to burst, and form a new kind
of gland for the secretion of matter, as above mentioned; if such
circumstances happen as diminish the painful sensation, the tendency to
growth ceases, and by and by an absorption commences, not only of the
superabundant quantity of fluids deposited in the inflamed part, but of the
solids likewise, and this even of the hardest kind.

Thus during the growth of the second set of teeth in children, the roots of
the first set are totally absorbed, till at length nothing of them remains
but the crown; though a few weeks before, if they are drawn immaturely,
their roots are found complete. Similar to this Mr. Hunter has observed,
that where a dead piece of bone is to exfoliate, or to separate from a
living one, that the dead part does not putrify, but remains perfectly
sound, while the surface of the living part of the bone, which is in
contact with the dead part, becomes absorbed, and thus effects its
separation. Med. Comment. Edinb. V. 1. 425. In the same manner the
calcareous matter of gouty concretions, the coagulable lymph deposited on
inflamed membranes in rheumatism and extravasated blood become absorbed;
which are all as solid and as indissoluble materials as the new vessels
produced in inflammation.

This absorption of the new vessels and deposited fluids of inflamed parts
is called resolution: it is produced by first using such internal means as
decrease the pain of the part, and in consequence its new motions, as
repeated bleeding, cathartics, diluent potations, and warm bath.

After the vessels are thus emptied, and the absorption of the new vessels
and deposited fluids is evidently begun, it is much promoted by stimulating
the part externally by solutions of lead, or other metals, and internally
by the bark, and small doses of opium. Hence when an ophthalmy begins to
become paler, any acrid eye-water, as a solution of six grains of white
vitriol in an ounce of water, hastens the absorption, and clears the eye in
a very short time. But the same application used a few days sooner would
have increased the inflammation. Hence after evacuation opium in small
doses may contribute to promote the absorption of fluids deposited on the
brain, as observed by Mr. Bromfield in his treatise of surgery.

2. Where an abscess is formed by the rupture of these new vessels, the
violence of inflammation ceases, and a new gland separat