1808

Thomas Beddoes to Josiah Wedgwood, 15 April 1808

I do not feel confident that it is in my power to remove y^r anxiety & that of Mrs Wedgwood – But I think I can more easily than at first give an opinion suitable to the exigency of the case – Your statement gives these facts

1. constitution rather improved, as she now
        a. by sufficient increase of mass & height
        b. freedom from fever
        c. looks better than when she began to lie down

2. blood disorder less
        a. curvature somewhat diminished
        b. one of the splenious processes having been reduced to its natural size

It appears to me probable that had there been no curvature but the same state of constitution your late plan w^d have been the best for Miss Wedgwood’s health – I can only add that it has happened when 6 or 8 months’ lying down had done but little apparently two or three more have compleated a cure – And though it seems hard to keep a young person from the spring, still she may be in the condition to lose more than she will gain by any exertion – And you have a couple of months yet which you need not regret –

To expedite the defective ossification, more stimulating applications may be yet made to the spine – e.g. hot water enclosed in a bladder to produce slight pain – twice a day –

I w^d recommend a solution of muriate of magnesia & of sulphate of magnesia in such dose as shall excite the bowels in the slightest degree beyond the natural – as producing an add^l motion in 2 days or making the present more relaxed – Muriate of magnesia I make by saturating common marine acid & water equal parts with magnesia & I give this mixed with a saturated cold solution of sulphate of magnesia in doses of 2 – 3 teaspoons in milk & water with liquorice or what you please –

Mrs B desires to be remembered & wishes Mrs W. a good time – I remain Dear Wedgwood

y^rs truly

Thomas Beddoes

15 April:
1808

MS: WE/EL/1/1/L40–7059