tested. A person of robust frame,
whom I much esteemed, died suddenly of the malady. I entreated his
friends, in the interest of humanity, to allow his body to be examined.

The people at this period indulged in the use of sauces, seasoned with
strong stimulating spices. These were excluded from colleges, and
consequently were used by adults only.

I communicated my opinion to the doctors: viz., that in the case they
were about to examine, it would be found that these burning condiments
had inflamed the intestines, and impeded nature in the discharge of her
functions. My impressions were correct. With the aid of the electric
microscope upwards of forty minute ulcers, highly inflamed, were
discovered in the intestines of the deceased, and in each of these
ulcers were seen several minute grains of some very hot condiments much
in use, which had affected the inner membrane, generated the ulcers, and
caused a hasty but painful death.

Assured of the baneful effect of the condiments, I determined to forbid
their use, though I knew this would be a serious infliction on the
people, inasmuch as the extreme heat of our climate made stimulants
necessary. The condiments were much liked, and amongst all the many
fruits and vegetables we possessed there were none that could be used as
substitutes.

On forbidding their use, I made known publicly the discovery that had
been made, every particular being clearly explained, that the people
might be convinced that I was acting for their good.

In obedience to my orders, the spices were collected from every quarter,
and placed in large warehouses secured under lock. The "bolts" were
delivered to the kings, who were astonished at the rapidity with which I
had obtained obedience to a decree depriving all of what had become a
daily want.

I saw, however, that unless the people were supplied with a substitute
for what they had lost, they would soon return to the deleterious
condiments in spite of my decree.

Having made known to all about me that I wished some hours for serious
thought, I shut myself up in a little cabinet at the summit of my
palace, where I could see only the heavens. All around me was silent and
calm as night.

Having prayed the aid of the Great Power, I endeavoured, by intense
meditation, to discover what healthful condiment could be substituted
for the deleterious spices of which the people were deprived.

After many hours of deep meditation, a ray of light bur