of my conduct, which is founded upon the most accurate theory
and experience. However, in this case, I must inform you that I have
found out the art of making my very beds medicinal; and this you must
confess, from the excellent night you have passed. I cannot impart the
same salutary virtues to down or silk, and therefore, though very much
against my inclinations, I have been compelled to lodge you in this
homely manner. But now, if you please, it is time to rise.'

"Ramozini then rang for the servants, and the gentleman suffered himself
to be dressed. At breakfast the gentleman expected to fare a little
better, but his relentless guardian would suffer him to taste nothing
but a slice of bread and a porringer of water-gruel--all which he
defended, very little to his guest's satisfaction, upon the most
unerring principles of medical science.

"After breakfast had been some time finished, Dr Ramozini told his
patient it was time to begin the great work of restoring him to the use
of his limbs. He accordingly had him carried into a little room, where
he desired the gentleman to attempt to stand. 'That is impossible,'
answered the patient, 'for I have not been able to use a leg these three
years.' 'Prop yourself, then, upon your crutches, and lean against the
wall to support yourself,' answered the physician. The gentleman did so,
and the doctor went abruptly out, and locked the door after him. He had
not been long in this situation before he felt the floor of the
chamber, which he had not before perceived to be composed of plates of
iron, grow immoderately hot under his feet. He called the doctor and his
servants, but to no purpose; he then began to utter loud vociferations
and menaces, but all was equally ineffectual; he raved, he swore, he
promised, he entreated, but nobody came to his assistance, and the heat
grew more intense every instant. At length necessity compelled him to
hop upon one leg in order to rest the other, and this he did with
greater agility than he could conceive was possible; presently the other
leg began to burn, and then he hopped again upon the other. Thus he went
on, hopping about with this involuntary exercise, till he had stretched
every sinew and muscle more than he had done for several years before,
and thrown himself into a profuse perspiration.

"When the doctor was satisfied with the exertions of his patient, he
sent into the floor an easy chair for him to rest upon, and suffered the
fl