Latham Spa IN LANCASHIRE, With some remarkable CASES and CURES Effected by IT; Together with A farther Account of It; As may conduce to the PUBLIC ADVANTAGE With Ease and little Expense.  
LONDON, Printed for ROBERT CLAVEL, in Cross Keys Court in Little Britain. 1672.   

TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE CHARLES Earl of DERBY, LORD LIEUTENANT Of the County Palatines of Cheshire and Lancashire, Chamberlain of CHESTER, AND LORD of MAN, and the ISLES, etc.  
My Lord,  
SPrings tend not more naturally to the Ocean, than this Treatise to your Lordship, The rise and Original of it.  
What I have collected, the faults excepted, hath been much out of your own Observations, writ in a Style, your Lordship must pardon, that it may live.  
When I first visited your Spa, I approached its Avenues with some prejudice, being not convinced of the Efficacy of Waters (though I have observed some, and read of more) in comparison of a well ordered Method in Physic, which I still favour: Though in pertinacious obstructions, and diseases, that must be long hewing down, native to those Parts through which the waters may pass, incline much to their use, especially if Patients (nauseating variety of Medicines) can comply with These, as more natural and obvious to their Constitutions.  
And here by the way, I cannot approve of such fictitious waters, as some by a pretended skill, in opposition to natural Spaws, say they can apt to this or that distemper. No, I am not convinced that Art (though in some great Masters of it, it may arise to a wonderful Excellency) can yet ever so deliciously compose medicines as to equal the refined Spirits, which God and Nature hath with so much Curiosity mixed in the Bowels of the Earth.  
A truth Fallopius seems to deny, hac ratione ductus, quod ob eorum soliditatem (speaking of concrete Minerals) nihil ab iis abradi possit; which Julius Caesar Claudinus in his ingressu ad infirmos (p. 373.) clearly confutes, aswell from their first as their second qualities; with whom our Learned Jordan in his discourse of Baths, and mineral waters (p. 63.) agrees, that before Minerals have their full Consistence, whilst they are in solutis principiis, as earth, juice, or vapours (afterwards indeed they will need some Medium, or Corrosive to unite them with the water) they may be communicated with water, non qua Talia sunt (to enforce Claudius his words) secundum suam substantiam, sed per soluta sua Principia, terras (scil.) succos & vapores.  
And hence I account the waters of Israel better than Abanah and Pharpar Rivers of Damascus; God having on Those bestowed a Blessing, He denied these, his hand having more immediately in those divinely tempered, what Art in these can but grossly imitate.  
And▪ yet I do not deny that from the Family of Minerals, many powerful and Noble medicines may, and are daily by Art framed to eradicate distempers; in which particular none certainly was ever happier than our Learned Willis, the Atlas and strength of Physical improvements, which being mixed with common water, as a Vehicle to carry them off, may effect good Cures, so Alcoholised; But not with like facility, and so little Disgust as your Lordships and other Spaws pro●●●e: The Abuse of which have many times profaned their use: So that they, who would effectually drink of Spaws, must also consult judicially about the manner, there being (as the Lord Verulam excellently observes) many Medicines which by themselves would do no Cures, but being orderly applied produce great ones, Nat. Hist. p. 16.  
And here I would not be mistake, as if by a judicial consulting of the manner of drinking these Spaws I insinuate such a necessity of advising always with Physicians, as no Dose could effectually be took without them: No, that were to supply the defect of practice by the Commendation of the Spa, to foment Distempers, and then allay them: An Artifice too mean, and disingenuous, however so specious and practicable.  
I know the Poor (for whose Relief these Spaws seem providentially to be found) may resort hither beneficially on small preparations, having robust bodies, natures which with a little help, can work out potent Diseases; And the Rich (coming advised by their Physicians) may likewise receive infinite good, according to the qualifications preface) unless extraordinary symptoms arise, which in some measure too, they may be prepared for; That water being weak, and poorly impregnate, if not inficiously, which ever and anon requires medicines to actuate its virtues, or to remove bad effects.  
I know, Medicinal Springs were never more pretended to than of late; Nor shall I deny such their content, Qui ipsos inflatis buccis orbi commendant.  
That which I have more to add, as to your Lordship's Spa, is only, that I believe Time, the Mother of Experience will commend it to Posterity, especially whilst your Charity Accommodates the Poor, as your Example animates others.  
I mention not Time, as if the experience of 20 years in the general, as well as four years particular observation, were not sufficient to evidence the Virtues of your Lordship's Spa; But that a greater Concourse to it may (without the nicety of any) set a larger Seal on its power and energy.  
More might be insisted on, but I fear I have trespassed too long on your Lordship's Patience, a virtue I would not further wound.  
Long may you Live, the Glory of your Family! Your Countries Preservation! and your Sovereign's Repose, and Confidence! That at length, though late, you may be Crowned with Martyrs, and the immarcible Reward of Loyalty, and a good Conscience! I am,  
My LORD, Your Lordship's most obliged and humble Servant E. Borlase.   

LATHAM SPA; How it is situated, what Conveniences may be there had for Strangers, whence it proceeds, its virtues, and some account of the Cures wrought by it.  
IN the Manor of Latham in Lancashire, within a quarter of a mile of Lathamhouse (the ancient and Magnificent Seat of the Earls of Derby, which too sharply bears the Character of her Lord's Loyalty, and the Miseries of more than a Civil War) is a notable Medicinal Well, commonly called Maudlin Well, in the Tenancy of Thomas Hulmes of Slade, named the Westhead, erecting its Spring much higher than the Road adjacent to Ormeskirke, the Noble burying place of the Stanley's, Earls of Derby.  
The happy effects of which Well I having observed the last Summer, attending the Commands of the Right Honourable the Earl of Derby and his Lady there, who have equally (with many in their numerous Family) received much benefit thence; I cannot, without injury to the public, but obey his Lordship in this brief but just account, though it be more suitable to my Inclinations to indulge my Retiredness than to expose it.  
This Spa (by the Care and Nobleness of the Earl of Derby and his Lady mutually assistant to the health of their Neighbours) is walled in with a good free stone, and defended from the violence of weather with a well ordered and decent▪ covering, set on a necessary, though no curious Fabric of wood, ordered more to secure it from rain, than the Rays and power of the Sun, which have still a sufficient influence upon it; whence this Spa being entire, it preserves (without the affronts of accidents) its own pureness and efficacy, issuing forth its stream (through a well paved Channel) into the Road where the neighbourhood and common people (who are alike free, coming at seasonable hours) drink of it there, and convert much of the water (running into the Road) to their necessary uses of washing, brewing, and the like with no little advantage; it being observed that the people thereabouts are of healthier Constitutions, and not so subject to the Epidemical distemper of this year, which hath so miserably infected most places; though I will not say (as Abheers of the Germane Spa) that vix annosiores homines sub nostro Coelo, quam Spadanos inveneris, it is sufficient they have not like Distempers at present as elsewhere.  
The Water (in its descent beating on the pavement) dies it with a rusty iron colour, one Argument of what it is impregnant with.  
Not far from the Spa there are many able Tenants sufficient to receive the best Persons with all Accommodations and respective conveniencies.  
The Spa is set about with Trees which yield a pleasant shade, and there are two competent Seats about it for the Patient's repose, and Attendants.  
Adjoining to it, there is a large field (of late repurchased by the Earl of Derby for the freer access of all comers thither) by nature cast into such order, as men and women may have a full conveniency for their walks and evacuations, without trespassing on either's modesty, and that with diversity of Entertainment too, there being shrubs, plants, and young trees of sundry sorts and uses.  
A fathom scarce sounds the bottom, where there is laid a large Millstone, through the hole of which the Spring forces its passage, casting up (within a foot of the surface) a clear silver sand, mixed with such variety of little thin Cockle-shells, and some Periwinkles curiously filled by the penetrable quality of the vitriol, as the finest glass is not more perspicuous, more smooth, that were a Microscope set to enlarge their minute bodies, what figures, what improvement, what objects might thence captivate the eye? more and no less I am persuaded than Mr. Hooke in his Book hath improved to admiration, evincing (as Dr. Power in his Preface to his Experimental Philosophy hath it) the dull world how curiously the minutest things are wrought, and with what signatures of Divine Providence they are enriched, which (as it is excellently observed in the Beauty of Providence) doth not daily fall under our sense and observation: And yet none of these, or any of the sand ever mixes with the stream, though it issues (through a large hole in the side of the Cistern) with a current flux bubbling in several places at once, and is of that strength, that if one try the deepness of it with a stick, it immediately buoys it up.  
Some (from the Cockle-shells and Periwinkles found in this water) conjecture, that this Spa may be fed by subterraneous veins from the Sea, whose shore is commonly stored with such shells; nor is the opinion wholly to be exploded, though the earth (in its matrice) may also have such a plastic virtue, as (from its prolific ferment actuated by the Sun) it may produce such shells, which, as the case stands, is hard to determine.  
Mr. Childrey in his Britannia Baconica (a good piece) page 75. mentions Cockle shells, and Periwinkles found at Alderley near Severn in Glocestershire; but so as he rather allows them attempts of Nature failing in her workmanship for want of fit matter, than such in reality, which those we speak of are in figure and other similitudes exceeding like, though very minute, and without the least substance found in them; though in a Close hard by, there are like shells which have full fishes in them; Ours (as Mr. Childrey's) are not found near the surface of the Earth, but in the body of the sand cast up by the force of the Spring.  
This Spa (by its Effects and the separation of its parts) seems impregnate with Vitriol and some Alum out of Iron, and not in the least saturated with any ill quality.  
That Alum is an Ingredient, not the main Principle, nothing discommends the Spa; As by Forestus and others we shall hereafter more fully evidence and clear.  
And here before I proceed, I must (from all whom I have discoursed with) insert, that if this Spa proves slow, in getting off with some, it is but with a few, and that through their want of advice first, whose distempers have such a nicety of complications as may (in prudence) require advice, (which I think aught regularly to be taken by such. Ne fortè aqua noxios humores incurrens, eos secum rapiat, inventamque obstructionem augeat, as Abheers observes) or if it comes off slow, it is through the irregularities of others in taking the water too late in the day, and dining too early and plentifully after, indulging besides a more than ordinary freedom; Yet none ever complained that it prejudiced them in the least.  
I have heard that Dr. Spratling (a Person worthily respected in Lancashire, for his Endowments, though somewhat morose and cloudy) commended this Spa to Mrs. Fleetwood of Penwerden, and others, as singularly good.  
And this Testimony I have from a Reverend Prelate, one of the most ingenuous and intimate Sons of the inmost Recesses of Nature, that He hath a very good Opinion of this Spa, though he drank but one morning of it: In which opinion is Dr. Pope, one of the Council of the Royal Society; And Dr. Howorth of Manchester (my honoured friend) a Person whose desert entitles him to no mean Credit, writes to me, That he lately viewed and drank of the Latham Spa, and perceived it to be as deeply impregnate with the tincture of the Iron and Vitriol Minerals as any water in Lancashire, or the Yorkshire Spa: adding further, That the greatest Test now must be from Those, that by experience make further discovery of its usefulness and benefit it affords, which he believes may answer the hopes and expectation he hath of it.  
And old Spa drinkers, of which I met some at this Spa, told me cheerfully, that a less quantity effected their business than at Tunbridg, Epsom, Barnet, and other Spaws, of which (in an ingenious Persons Case here following) you will have a notable proof, which cannot but be an excellent Quality, considering thereby that the Hypochonders are less stretched, Obstructions are more powerfully opened, the filth of the stomach impacted in its folds and wrinkles is sooner fetched off, especially if an easy vomit of Sa● vitrioli albi, which as well astringendi vi, strengthens as evacuates the stomach in robust and obstinate bodies, precedes, and the membranous Parts (by the speedier coming off of the water) are easier relieved, especially if this Spa be a little acuated (as I have advised some) with Salt of Vitriol, or Steel, or Cakes of Cream of Tartar, the Germane way prepared, freely bestowed by the Countess of Derby, who obliges (by her great indulgence) her Neighbours thereby.  
There is an Ingenuous Person, one of a quick and through apprehension, who coming (more out of a complacency than complaint) to this Spa, drank of it with others some days successively, but seldom more than three pints at a time, yet made within an hour and an half two chamberpots full of Urine; which clearly demonstrates its celerity and virtue. And that he might not be without a blessing (though the healthfulness of his Constitution knew not what he might desire) he yet found much gravel, to which his Parents are addicted, evacuated by it, and himself freed of an Ebullition of blood, which Critically (about Midsummer) had expressed its virulency in small pimples, for some late years, with much offence.  
This Spa I have throughly tried as to the turning its colour with the powder of galls, oak leaves, the boiling it with milk, the bearing of soap, which (as the Lord Bacon observes, Nat. Hist. p. 87.) hungry water will not admit of, such kills the unctuous nature of the soap. As likewise I have tried other experiments (frequent in the like Case) and I find few Spaws, if any sooner answer all their Tests than this. Less than a grain of the shave of Gall will immediately tincture a considerable glass full of the water, first purple, then inky. Nay, I have experienced that after some of this Spa had been kept seven weeks in a bottle, it yielded to the Gall a full colour, though indeed, it putrifies soon, being out of its body, which argues highly the fineness of its Spirits, they being thin and aerial, and is an evincing token of its virtue, in the Judgement of the Lord Verulam, Paulus Aegineta, Oribasius and others.  
And that I might be yet fuller informed (desiring to lay no Fucus on a withered face) I caused three pints of this water (after it had been carried seven miles) to be distilled in a Lamp Still, excellently performed by my Lord's Apothecary in the House: The first four or five spoonfuls of which so distilled, I turned (as I had done the rest from the Well) with a little Gall, though what was afterwards distilled never altered in the least, notwithstanding how much Gall soever I put in, but remained insipid and clear.  
I put also into a glass of Spa water, at the Spring a few drops of the volatile Spirit of Hartshorn, which made a white separation, with a strong scent, not of the faetor of the Hartshorn, but the Spa, as if it had drawn all its Spirits into a narrower compass, which a few drops of the oil of Tartar reduced to its clearness and scent.  
The scent of this Spa is not loathsome, somewhat it is like ink, more (in my apprehension) like the Seashore when the Tide's gone out, brackish and subtle.  
Further, I exactly weighed a glass of fresh Spring-water with as much to a drop, as we could measure it, of Spa water, which in three ounces (so much the glass contained of Spring-water) the Spa water came short of the Spring-water a full half ounce, which demonstrates the levity of its parts, and the subtlety of its Spirits, which in the opinion of the Lord Verulam (Nat Hist. pag. 86.) makes much for the better: Though I must confess too with Heurnius, that Learned and entire Physician on Hypocrates his Aphorisms 26. l. 5. Non lance semper aestimanda est aqua, sed si non gravis sit Hypochondrio, verùm si ea subito pervadat, nec ibi cunctando putrescat, is the best quality, which I have already manifested are extant in our Spa.  
This Spa hath a bluish Cream, or skin which swims upon the water after it hath stood a very little while, Instar iridis, vel caudae pavonis in aquae superficie, to use Hadrianus a Mymsicht's expression in his Anima Vitrioli, a medicine of admirable use, as this Spa, (for this reason) may be in many of the like Cases, especially when obstructions are the original of such distempers.  
I know coal waters, and others which are not without some ill quality (as standing Lakes and the like) have the same coloured scum, but not from the like Principle, the one being from putrification, This the innate virtue of the Minerals.  
Abheers (who in concerns of this nature leaves nothing unsearched) believes this various coloured fat, or skin in the superficies of the Spa to be liquid Amber, though others think it Sulphur: But whether from the one or the other, certainly much virtue is specified by it, both being ingredients active and effectual.  
This Spa works several ways, most by Urine, often by Urine and stools, sometimes by Vomits, but least free that way, unless the stomach be before foul and nauseous.  
The Spa at first drinking, is exceeding cold; to avoid the inconveniences of which falling suddenly on the stomach, a sensible part and the bowels, I advise, as is usual in the like case, Fennel seeds, Coriander seeds, Lemmon or Orange pills, Angelica roots, or roots of Enula Campana candied, to be taken with it, which brings off the water gratefully: And if some few drops of that Noble and generous Medicine Elixir proprietatis be taken in a draught of the water now and then, I am persuaded it may further its excellency, as the Earl of Derby fully experienced when he took the water in reference to an indisposition on his stomach, which this Spa hath happily removed, begetting besides an excellent appetite.  
Some (Claud. p. 382. not without Authority) admit of a spoonful of Salt in their first Cup, ut facultatem intestinorum irritent, ac alvum subducant, which in robust bodies replete with gross humours, I shall not forbid according to Avicen and Mesue cited by Dr. Jerden, p. 130. though it is too severe, and harsh for finer contextures, having such tenuity of parts as may fret the guts and bowels.  
In the weaker and finest bodies Manna may be sufficient, Rhubarb with Cream of Tartar, or Tartarum vitriolatum, or my Deobstructive powder, which I have observed hath done singularly well.  
Some have been for drinking this Spa warm (as they were they say the first Examples of that course at other Spaws) the stomach being apt to suffer by the contraction the water may make on the nerves through its active quality, the nerves enduring no cold, in pursuance of the Lord Verulam's advice for warm drinks, (Hist. Life and death p 214) which may be in some constitutions more proper at meals than in a course of Physic, and I believe his Lordship means so, for so drunk in a course of Physic it makes it more nauseous, diminishes its spirits, renders it less penetrable, and gives it another quality, though in weak bodies the water with good effect may be taken warm, yet if such who desire to take it so would either drink it in their bed, or go to bed soon after they have drunk their dose (as with some is usual at other Spaws) all inconveniencies of its chillness would be easily prevented, especially if the former rules of taking some gentle Correctives with the water were faithfully observed, or a little white wine drunk with it, Ut si vestigium aliquod frigiditatis ventriculo ab illis communicatum fuerit, ab his deleatur. Claud. p. 390. For though this water (as Abheers observes of his Spa, p. 102.) Actu est humida, potentia potentèr exsiccat & calefacit, sicque ventriculi, & Cerebri vitia emendat. And that it affects the stomach by its coldness with no ill effects, is evident from the appetite it raises in all that take it, signally remarkable even to the repairing of some appetites prostrate before, constringendo enim ventriculi orificium excitat suctionem, as Hollerius in his praxis, p. 456. observes from our supreme Master, when he calls cold water 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Vorax.  
The Right Honourable the Countess of Derby when she first began to drink of this Spa (three or four years since) was forced to take Cardamum seeds with it, now a few Fennel seeds, sometimes without any thing, the Spa passes off with much ease and benefit.  
Exercise (whilst the Spa is in drinking) is most necessary: light walking is good, but in that the body is apt thence to sweat, than distribute the water, the matter of which is much spent by sweat, especially if the motion be violent, whereby the strength being drawn into a narrow room, the Spirits become more sharp, and predatory, I commend riding, shooting, bowling, or what may make the water more easily descend, and enlarge its distribution; and if some easy exercise to warm the bowels be had before one drink the water, I conceive it may make way for the water to proceed with less prejudice.  
What diet (in this case) is most necessary, is very obvious, viz. meats of easy digestion, all fruits of the season must be avoided; early rising, going to dinner when the waters are come off, and soon supping is most requisite; yea Lipsius his advice to Lessius from the Spa in his Epistles is excellent, vix quandocunque venietis coenulam vobis paratam apud me scitote ex legibus spadanis, tenuem frugalem cum fame dimissuram: so is a cheerful spirit, moderate exercise, and all temperance, and the body by Art, if the water effects it not, is constantly to be kept open.  
In what Cures this Spa hath been most happy I shall in brief run over some; Time, which matures all, and my leisure, (at present somewhat disturbed) being to enlarge further as there is occasion.  
In facilitating the passage of the stone and gravel, and abstersing its sordes and minera, I find it very successful.  
One Cropper in the Manor of Latham hath (for these twenty years) found, (as to the stone and gravel) much benefit by this Spa in great violence and extremity.  
Major Henry Nowell Deputy Governor of the Isle of Man, drinking of this Spa, found (as I am informed) infinite relief by it, voiding thereupon much Gravel and many stones.  
John Lingley a poor man, miserably afflicted with a continued pain about his reins, and his bladder, especially when he would make water, drank freely (after he had been gently purged) of this Spa, by which he immediately found such ease, that the membrum virile (swelling priapismi instar, constantly before when he endeavoured to make water) grew orderly, and he voided the next morning a stone with two discoverable branches.  
A Gentleman of a fair Estate, and an Ancient Family nigh to, and in Leverpool (one of the most increasing and flourishing Sea-Towns now in England) having, but ineffectually, long experienced the ablest advice in London for an Ulcer in his right Kidney, at length repaired to this Spa, of which for some days (indeed too few to make a through Cure) he drank freely, and with that effect, as ever since he is restored to such a competency of health and strength, as he travels in his new Chariot with ease, and walks without the least disturbance, who for some years before could not stir without stooping and much pain.  
Strange success it hath had on most sturdy obstructions, and Annual pains.  
Richard Dinton (at present Coachman to the Earl of Derby) was long held with an excessive pain about his stomach, flushing heats in his head, and a straightness at times about his heart. Several months successively (for two days together in a month, and no more) he had an intermitting Tertian, with a regular Type, and a sharp stitch in his right side; for which he tried much means, but in vain; At length he drank freely of this Spa, taking some days a little Rhubarb and salt with it (the Medicine is of the Lord Bacon's approbation, Hist. of Life and Death, p. 218.) and is now in good health.  
A Gentlewoman of good note washing her knees and hams morning and evening with this Water (she drank of it too) eased herself thereby of infinite pains and aches in those parts.  
Here I must insert a Case of great importance, Elizabeth Holden Wife to one of the Keepers of Latham Park, a woman of good years, and grave, having for a long time suffered under intolerable pains about her stomach, back, and belly, principally towards the Matrix, and in her groins: And fearing by the bigness of her belly, that she might fall into a Dropsy, drank orderly of this Spa, being tired out with variety of Churlish Medicines before. After a day or two, the Spa wrought so effectually with her, as first it mitigated her pains, then lessened her belly, and at length, Oh numen Aquarum! It brought away such Bladders, as many of them equalled a pigeon's egg, which being broke, with some noise, yielded a spoonful of limpid liquor somewhat jellying: Before the voiding of which, pains, not unlike Throws, pressed her in her belly, groins, and lower parts. I had (by the favour of the Earl of Derby) one of those Bladders, the last I think, she ever voided, sent to me, whose outward Tunicle was not unlike a Swine's bladder, but without Fibres or veins; within it was smooth, and had adhering to its sides a slimy bluish jelly substance. Upon discourse with her, of which afterwards she assured me, that she had not voided less (since she took notice of them) then two hundred, each with pain and trouble, though the last with least. What to think of these I am somewhat uncertain; That there are Monsters in Physic, as in Nature, is no late Exclamation. Ludovicus Nonnius, a learned Physician of Antwerp, in an Epistle to the most ingenious Beverovicius of Dordrecht, inserted in his Treatise De Calculo, writes that as in the Yard Caruncles may be generated, which enclose Urine, so the like substance may be bred in the body of the bladder: And Zacutus Lusitanus, that admirable observer of especial Cases, p. 184. gives an excellent evidence, that multa monstrosa in vesica innasci, & membranae nerveae Globi crystalli forms, incredibilis quantitas pituitae, & alia mira quae intus corercita deinde excernuntur cum urina. Nor is Sennertus, that Learned and excellent man less observing in his Chapter, de vermibus & aliis praeter naturam in vesica natis. And none of our books, treating of preternatural accidents, but are plentifully stored with strange productions from the womb; Concessions much strengthening our present Case though they clear not the reason of it: Nor do I believe the reason is easily found out.  Multa tegit sacro involucro Natura. 
Though till I am better convinced, I must suppose these Bladders voided by our Patient to be bred in her bladder, if there, or in her womb, as Aposthumes, of which there are great varieties arising from choice of matter, as Sennertus well observes, disseminated through the whole body, some of them enclosed in a proper tunicle, receiving form and matter from the place they are generated in. I have been lately assured by a Person worthy to be credited, that having had some years since, discourse with an Eminent Physician in these parts, whose infirmities generally tied him to his Chamber, he was then told by him that he once had a Patient, a Gentlewoman of good quality, who on her Urine had a fat scum with various colours in it, under which swum many Bladders, the bigness of a large pin's head, very clear, which being broke afforded a slimy water, which he conceived were the effects of some Apostumated matter in the Reins, and not improbable, so various is Nature in the discharge of her burden. But that which sways most, next to what may be imputed to the irregularities of the womb, is the opinion of a Learned Physician, whose deserts challenge more than is paid to his years and merits. He conceives these Bladders come from the Mesentery, and are the involucra and Cystes of Scrofulous Tumours generated there, there being, as Vigo maintains, the focus and seminary of the Scrophula expelled thence, as Schenckins observes of other evacuations, per ductus occultos; and hence Forestus in his Treatise of Chirurgical observations (lib. 3 p. 259. in 8º) from Arnoldus observes, that Aquae minerales aluminosae non solùm infernos hos strumosos, ac pituitosos abscessus, sed externos quoque & summa corporis occupantes imminuunt, ac discutiunt; from whence this Patient received so much benefit: But to our intent.  
The Colic seldom here misses of a Cure; Holmes who had lately the ground in Lease, gives an excellent Testimony of this, as others whilst I was on the place.  
Since, Mr. William Blackbourn of Billings, a young Gentleman, having some sharp heats breaking forth in his body, went the last Autumn to Holywell, in hopes the coldness of that Well (certainly a clear and fresh one) would have relieved him; But washing there, returned notwithstanding with the same heats increased, and some days after had the Colic so extremely, as it tormented him much; Whereupon coming to this Spa, he drank plentifully of it, and was that day cured of his Colic, and mended immediately of his itch.  
This Spa hath wrought good effects on long obstructions, of which something hath been took notice of in Dintons' Case.  
The Countess of Derby being sensible of a more than ordinary indisposition on her right Hypochonder, applied herself, two years since, to the drinking of this Spa; The Spaws in Germany, (those of Ardenne, as that of Wilong in the Territories of the Landgrave of Hesse, famous for the Duchess of Longaveile, Sister to the Duke of Conde, proving afterwards with Child) having been no strangers to her palate and observations, which encouraged that Excellent and discerning Person to hope well of her own Spa at Latham, in taste and trial not unlike. Upon drinking of which she found so notable an improvement of her health, languid and impaired before, that her appetite returned, the rawness and crudity of her stomach before mentioned, wore off, her flushings and heats grew less, and her Liver (till then stretched immovably to her ribs) grew loose and pliable, and all upon drinking this water, this admirable vehicle imbibed with such active qualities as wasting the pertinacious humours, adhering to the Parenchyma, and vessels, before rebellious to ordinary solutives, and medicines, restored her Ladyship to the excellent health she now enjoys.  
The Lady Colchesters' Gentlewoman complaining, through a long indisposition, of much pain inhere head, and stomach, with a strange averseness to meat, & a vomiting afterwards, drank orderly (after some small preparations) of this Spa, and in few days grew well, and so continues.  
In old Aches, and inward and outward Sores, this Spa is of good effect.  
Thomas Holmes of Slade, about 50 years old, having been troubled several years last passed with a pain about his Midriff, which though not altogether, yet in great measure hindered his daily Labour, contracted by a strain, lifting a great weight near 20 years since, the last May began to drink of this Spa (not constantly and regularly, but as he thought fit, and business permitted him) in quantity about two quarts at a time, and is now not only freed of his pains, but can daily do more work than he could possibly reach to for some years before.  
His Servant also, about Christmas was twelvemonth got a strain in his back, lifting more than he could well master, which disenabled him much; In June last he drank of this Spa, for the most part, twice a day for some weeks, whereby he is now lusty and follows his labour close, without the least sense of his former Complaints.  
Henry Maudesley (within the Manor of Latham) being in very great pain at his heart, in his thighs, legs, feet, and head (you must accept of his own expressions) for which he had tried what help Boulton and the Country afforded (Eminent men in some places) but in vain, came, or rather, with much ado, crawled to Latham Spa, with a strong confidence, where in the morning, he drank thereof freely, and getting a bottle, carried it full home of the same water, and drank of it when he went to bed; Next morning he found himself (amazed at the Deliverance) in a very good Condition, and both his thighs broken out with pimples, out of which issued much water, whereupon he immediately grew perfectly well, and so continues.  
Alexander Parr, one of the Keepers of Latham Park, on a bruise, vomited much blood, and thereupon grew weak, and shortwinded, but drinking of this Spa recovered strength, grew hearty, and spat no more blood.  
Thomas Aiscough, one of an athletic constitution, upwards of 50. every winter (for some years last passed) being troubled with a severe Cough, together with a shortness of breath, complaining withal of such exquisite pains in his shoulders and over his breasts, as the anguish of them would sometimes cloud his Reason. Quibus etsi non tollitur lumen illud, ut sic dicam, mentis: tamen interdum offuscatur, & velut nubeculâ serenitatem ejus subducunt; to make use of dear Lipsius his words to Prunius, than his pains would descend to his stomach, where they would be more tolerable, and afterwards settle, with much virulency, in his thighs, having in their walk pained his hips, so as to turn them black, and in the end determine in his great toes, with blisters pouring forth (for some weeks) freely thick and putrid matter, as Herc. Sax. p. 288. observes in the like Case, Humours descended, ad pedes, in quibus fiunt tubercula & sic solent solvere abscessus: for the Cure of which he had much advice, but finding it ineffectual, resorted to this Spa, which after due preparations by bleeding, vomits, purges, and an orderly diet, which of himself he was not much inclined to, wrought so powerfully on him, every way, as he found exceeding Relief thereby, and is now returned to the Isle of Man, (where he usually lives) with much Comfort, and satisfaction: Though such a habit of Distempers will necessarily need, Spring and Fall, some evacuation more than natural.  
Monsieur Pelate, Gentleman of the Horse to the Countess of Derby, one well versed in Chemistry, and a sober person, who in his own Country had often visited the Waters of Bourbon, and the most reputed Spaws, acknowledges This, in its kind, to be nothing inferior to any of them; It having effected a most signal Cure on him, who, being much indisposed, and stiff in his Limbs, inclinable, as he suspected to a Palsy (a Scorbutic one I conjecture) drank orderly of this Spa, and within a short time recovered his Limbs, with a constant good habit of body, before much indisposed, and obstructed through a sedentary life in his more retired years. The last Summer he went to Holywel, and with others bathed himself there. Upon which ensued a great indisposition on his Limbs, and his whole body; The Spring being too cold and piercing (though it must be owned, for its Rise and Purity, one of the excellentest of that nature) as it discomposed him much, so much as he hath expressed his resentment ingeniously, fecit indignatio versus: since he hath recovered his health by drinking again This Spa.  
John Thorp of Chester, 16 years old, having been for several years, if not since his birth, exceeding scrofulous in his face, arms, body and legs, so violent there, as to have eight bones at once took thence, underwent all usual means for his recovery, but finding little good thence the year 1669. the humour broke forth very violently in his arm, thighs and back, in his back so violently as it ran extremely distempering his whole body, sufficient indeed, and more than sufficient to make him an object of great Charity; which the Earl of Derby considering, ordered (about the midst of July last,) that he should be brought with much Care to This Spa from Chester, of which he drank freely, it agreeing (after two or three days) excellently with him, working by stools, and urine, very kindly, so kindly as after six week's stay there, observing an orderly Course, both as to Physic and diet, his Ulcers mended to admiration without any other application whatsoever, than the Spa water; His pains, before intolerable, vanished, his strength (near exoluted) increased, and his mind (dejected through the loathsomeness of his distemper) grew serene, so that at this day he stands a Miracle of Restoration, being able to walk cheerfully, that lately could not move without anguish, and complaints, though I suspect (unless the next Spa season perfect his recovery) his distemper, through its violence hath so impoverished Nature, that he will at length fall under his Complaints, through the decay of some Parts, (without the recovery of which) Natures cannot well subsist, though at present, exceedingly relieved.  
John Stephen of Newgate in Holland near Latham, 20 years old, having (near the vertebrae of the loins, within somewhat more than an inch of the back bone, upon the first of the spurious ribs) a great Tumour which for six months was gathering to suppuration, but could not be brought to it, notwithstanding the most usual effectual poultices, cataplasms, and plasters, till by the advice of a Country woman, a Colt's Secundine, which was stretched (according to their Custom) on a board, and by pieces applied to the Tumour so ripened, and easily broke it, as at the first running it yielded some quarts of laudable Quittor, The next dressing almost as much, and every day after, for four weeks, the Aposteme wetted three or four napkins each dressing, not unlike to what Herculius Saxonius observes, p. 288. of one he opened, qui excernebatur pus album eo die ad libras octo, & sequentibus diebus ultra decem libras; which comes the nearest I read of to our Patient, who being thereby brought very low, and finding no benefit by what he had been advised to for his recovery, He with much difficulty repaired to Latham Spa, where (after he had took a dose of the Apozem prescribed for the former Scrofulous Patient, he drank orderly of that Spa; As Her. Sax. in the former Chapt. advises in curatione ulceris post abstersionem: utilitèr enim, says he, administrantur omnes Aquae Thermales, & intemperie calidâ conveniunt frigidae, in minus calida aluminosae, nam exsiccant & mutant intemperiem parts, as Forestus in his Chyrurgical Observations p. 329. also advises, by which the Patient in few days gathered strength, with such a stomach, as his sores (he had two) ran kindly, grew sweet, and by the Fistula injection, which the Countess of Derby (excellent in those things) ordered, out of her Charity and knowledge, is now in such a Condition, as he can without pain ride, nay go many miles, who before could scarce hold up his back one step, and might easily have the wound healed, if there were not more danger Lupum auribus tenere; Some Recidiva's remaining, which (for fear the vertebrae of the back should be foul, or the Cartilege, and the Tendons of the joints be thereby impaired, the Aposteme being long in gathering) I cannot yet but indulge Doctor Reads Caution, not to heal the Orifice too soon. Before he came to the Spa, oftentimes the Orifice in his side would be shut up, upon which he would breathe extreme short, and spit up exceeding bitter matter in great quantity, ready to suffocate him (the matter being translated to his Lungs) which, after drinking a day or two of the Spa, turned its Course to the Wound, never reversing its order since: So happy hath this Spa been to this poor neighbour.  
Some in Dropsies have repaired happily to this Spa.  
The Lord Strange's Nurse, a Woman of a full body, cheerful, and of a wholesome Complexion, being exceedingly swollen in her belly, thighs and legs, nay almost all over, afflicted too with violent pains in her head, and a troublesome Asthma, seriously betook herself to drink of this Spa, and without any considerable preparation; which, in few months cured her Dropsy, remedied her headache, and freed her, as it hath done some others lately, of her Asthma, that at this time she enjoys much health.  
I know a Divine about 40 years old, a graceful Preacher, and Reverend, much afflicted with the Scurvy, and many of its languishing symptoms, besides miserable swollen legs, who drinking of this Spa but a few days, returned home infinitely eased of his Complaints, and cured of his swollen legs.  
In the Worms, nothing proves more effectual. The Housekeepers Wife of Cross-Hall (a sweet Retirement of the Earl of Derbys) maintains it, that one of her Children being very ill, and as she thought at the point of Death, and she herself too, at that time, indisposed and ill, drank both of this Spa brought to them in a bottle, by James Holmes the Husband, and immediately they both grew well. The Mother thereupon voiding two, and the Daughter three worms Indeed the Neighbourhood, as I am informed, drinks it often upon that score, and with much benefit.  
Mistress Elizabeth Nowell, being troubled with the Palpitation of the Heart from the womb, and Spleen, drank some days of this Spa, and found not relief only, but (for aught I yet hear) a Cure.  
In women's Diseases, viz obstructions of the womb, Critical evacuations, hysterical fits, etc. the whites with all the symptoms arising thence, the Spa produces excellent effects, too apparent here to insist on, that through the whole, glance only at some Cures; As also in loosenesses, bloody fluxes, fluxes of the Liver, This Spa effects considerable Cures, and that not so much as some suppose, by a restringent, and thickening quality condensing the prodigality of Humours preying on Nature, thereby disabled to act in her own vigour, as by an opening, and discussing virtue, precipitating the Morbific Cause of these and the like fluxes, whereby Nature (being rid of her superfluities) she recovers her pristine strength, as Abheers p. 24. excellently well observes to this effect.  
The same may be affirmed of the Gonorrhoea, and all the diseases incident thereto: Of which you may take two Examples, One of a young man about 29 years, who having run through a Course of Physic, not less terrible than the Disease, drinking of this water, was speedily cured of a notable Flux of Blood in the frenum with its consequents.  
The other was of a man about 30. who having a Consumption in his back, drank freely of this Spa, and in few days gathered strength, such as (if a Quartan, which hath seized on him this winter, do not again impair his strength exceedingly) may restore him to a healthful Condition.  
I may here likewise mention one (related to him that looks to the Well) who having spent much in the Cure of a dysentery, was by his friends advised to come from Manchester, where he lived, and lacked not advice of Learned and eminent men, to drink of this Spa, which he did, and in a short time returned cured.  
Nor is it any wonder that this Spa impregnate with sufficient virtue, should have such an effect on the Diseases last mentioned, since (as Sennertus observes of the taking of the Aquae Thermales, in the Dysentery, the reason of which Cure is also pregnant for the rest) That cum una opera pluribus scopis satisfaciant, acres (scil.) humores diluant, & deturbent, sordes ulcerum detergant & ulcera ipsa egregiè consolident, so my Author in his Ch. De dysenteria, p. 329. 4ᵒ which, as a Conclusion to this hasty Discourse, is not impertinent to insert: And though I might now add more, each day during its season, raising up some passage worthy an Observation; Yet with the shutting up of the Spa in Winter, we will also leave the rest to flourish with this Spring, If what we have writ, we judge not more than sufficient.   
FINIS.  

Memoriae Sacrum ILLUSTRISSIMI Paris Conjugum, Viri quidem Nobilissimi D. D. CAROLI Comitis DERBIAE, Et Junctae Illi Lectissimae Foeminae D. Dorothea Helenae, Operam Conferentium ut Aquae Acidulae Lathamenses, Omnium visui obviae & usui expositae essent.  
Anno à FONTE saliente plus minus XLXX. Aera Christi MDCLXXII.   

A further Account of LATHAMSPAW, as IT may conduce to the public Advantage, with ease and little Expense, under the favour of the ILLUSTRIOUS PERSONS, the Proprietors of IT, whose Charity exposes IT to All, as their Countenance gives Life and encouragement to IT.  
MAny having been encouraged by the success, which They and their Friends have found on their Repair to Lathamspaw, to inquire further after its Effects, and the Times and Customs to be observed there; (too cursorily glanced at in the first Treatise of this Subject) I cannot, but in order to the approaching Season, so far yield to the Importunity of Truth, and the public benefit; as briefly to affirm what the most knowing and ingenious testify, that the Excellency of that Water far excelled the attempt of its Praise and Virtue: though it being remote from the Business of the Nation, the Access to it may not be so universal, as is observed in other Places weaker impregnated with the Minerals, Iron, Vitriol, and Sulphur. Nor were the Effects more visible on the Plebeian, than the Patrician, as hereafter may be more particularly expressed; though some circumstances in their Cases, are more remarkable, than a short time may well comprehend; to which at present (intending few Notes only, not a Tract) I am narrowly confined. Hence for their clearer Information, who shall repair thither, for the opening of Obstructions, either of the Liver, Spleen, or Mesentery, the Inn of slow Fevers, and other contumacious Effects; freeing the Ureters of Gravel, Stone, or Phlegm, restoring the Appetite, clearing the Vessels of the Gall and curing the Diseases incident thereunto, also the suppression of Urine, painfulness, etc. the rectifying the Womb, furthering Conception, menstrual Evacuations, and rectifying other Infirmities of Women; dissipating Hypocondrick Vapours, or Melancholy, removing old Pains, Scorbutic affections, with its prodigal and virulent Progeny, Dropsies, Asthmas, Morphew, distempers of the Reins, Worms, Relics and proper Fuels of intermitting Fevers; healing old Sores, sore Mouths, inflamed Eyes, inveterate Dysenteries, Laskes, and Fluxes, with many Diseases lodging in the Channels, through which the water passes. I shall add some Directions, observing (to the Profanation of this great Blessing) how irreligiously, how brutishly most flock thither, (as to other Spaws) without discrimination, or rules to be bounded by in their Drinking; as if the Water were a Spell, not a Medicine: whereas the influence even of the Pleyades, and Orion, have not their natural Effects, but as the Bodies (they work on) are capacitated to imbibe their Energy.  
In pursuance of which, so grateful to the most illustrious Indulgers of this Spa, whose Interest is never so well advanced as in the Community of Good, I shall set down some Canons which (observed) may make the Waters (influenced from above) truly healing and beneficial; not here only, but where ever the like are drunk, so as these Rules may prove a general Benefit summed up in a narrow Room: In publishing of which, I comply rather with their Charity, (diffusive as their virtues) then seek my Ease or Repose.  
First, as to the Time, though some are of opinion, Waters may be drunk in winter as being stronger then: Yet the Air being then cold, the Pores are more condensed, whence the passages are not so relax; and commonly one is driest in the Summer months, so more inclined to drink freely, a good Expedient to carry them off readily; in which respects, I conceive the fittest Time to repair hither, is, from the end of May to August, inclusively. Some (so the constitution of the Season dissuades not) commend August most, though generally then the first Rains begin, and that (according to the Proverb) discovers the Poverty of Nobility: The Trees thence forward casting their Livery, whence People clothing themselves warmer imply Waters (afterwards) are ill Visitors of the inward parts: But this Circumstance may be overruled according to the seasonableness of the year, no maxim being truer than that, Change of Seasons principally begets Diseases. Certainly the hottest Season, and clearest Air, are fittest Times to drink Waters in: the Air (a vehicle by which Diseases are conveyed to us) being much indisposed by the contrary, consequently Waters, and we by them, in case Wind, Rain, or Air prove unwholesome; Yet I have known Those, whom the strongest Medicines could not move, the Waters (though in Winter) have wrought on effectually; but such Patients are not sufficient to make the Rule general.  
Secondly, let such (as would drink these Waters) advise with their Physician, whether the Cause (for which they would apply themselves hither) be probable to be relieved here: Siloe was not for all; since Luxury, complicate Diseases have flown in upon us. Nothing is so sovereign which (in some respect) may not be attended with an inconvenience, though I havebeen so strict, in my observation of this Water, that I cannot charge the least Ill upon it; Who were fit to drink it; Who have took it orderly, that have not been spent with Age, or whose Heat or Vital parts have not been asleep.  
Thirdly, having rightly discovered the Disease (for one may emulate another, and yet is not to be cured by the same means) let them carefully pursue Rules, drink orderly, and keep within the compass of a sober Diet.  
Rules consist first in Purging, either by Vomit, or Stools, of which more in the larger Treatise on this Subject, it being impossible to apt Medicines to every one's Necessities, though (in general) the Nauseous may help their Stomaches by Hiera Picra, in Pills, from half a Drachm to a Drachm, or take it in its Species, with Syrup of Wormwood, and strengthen their Stomach afterward with Zedoary, Galinga, China-Ginger, sweet Calamus Roots candied, and the like. The costive may do well to take Diacassia cum Manna an ounce, Cremor Tartar a scruple, made into a Bolus the night before, or some of the lenitive Electuaries with a little Hiera Picra, which by morning may relax the belly. 2. Let the Patient drink the Water early, on an empty Stomach, and walk, jump, ride, swing the Arms, shoot at Butts, or exercise gently after, also a little before; the better to relax the Passages, and excite natural Heat: weak Persons may drink them in their bed, some what warm, but never too much at once, least driving obstructive Matter into the Ureters, the Waters find not a current flux; or (the Stomach being overcharged) the Patient be forced to vomit: not that a Vomit the first or second day may be inconvenient, though the Custom of it may effeminate the Stomach, and divert the Course more natural and intended. Hence I disallow drinking in the afternoon, unless a Cup or two, four or five hours after Dinner, that the Chylus diluted may be the better distributed; but then I am against such as would sleep upon it, for that (as some well observe) the Water lying longer in the Stomach, than at other times, and gathering Heat, it sends up Vapours apt to oppress the Brain. 3. After the Water begins to come off kindly, the Patient may drink thin Veal or Mutton Broth altered with Asparagus, Fenel, Parsley roots and the like, with Tops of young Wheat, Succory, Chervil, and seasonable Herbs, the better to warm the Stomach and open the passages. 4. Dine not till the Water be come off: A little White or Rhenish Wine (in a glass or two of the Water) furthers that; sometimes a Pipe of Tobacco, also Elecampane or Angelica Roots candied, Orange Pills, Tablets of Aromaticum Rosa●um, and the like, mentioned under the first head (strengthening the Stomach) help concoction, than which nothing can bring off the waters sooner. 5. As one ascends by degrees to his Doses, (which is impossible to assign positively to any, for that the Water works not alike with All) so let him descend gradually; and if he will not admit of other Physic, let him, at least, take a Glister in conclusion, that (what the waters have thrown into the Bowels) it may cleanse and relieve; Else after evacuations, (sometimes Torments) may ensue very prejudicial: indeed Glisters (and those of the Spa Water) may (in case of Costiveness, or obstinate obstructions) be of excellent use through the whole course. 6. Feed on meats easy of Digestion, such as may rather satisfy than whet the Appetite; The Belly's cheaply fed: especially avoid the crude Fruits of the Season, viz. Cherries, Cucumbers, Million, Pease, Peaches, or what may raise the least satiety; the fertile Parent of divers complicate inexplicable Diseases. 7. Spend the vacant time in gentle exercise, as before is specified, also in Mirth, and good Company, that together with the Body, the mind may be relieved. 8. Get convenient sleep in the nights, rarely in the day, unless the Patient be very weak, and that sleep may be taken with Advice; and in case you sweat kindly in the night, check not favourable Dews; although such I am against, in the Act of Drinking; for that it spends much of that matter which is more natural to come away by Urine, so, enfeebling the Spirits, it much indisposeth the Patient. 9 Less than fourteen or twenty days (a respect being ever had to the habit of the Patient, and his strength) cannot well serve to run the Course in: In the strict observance whereof, some time's Headache, Maziness, and the like (by reason of vapours) affect the Patient. In others the pains of the Hemorrhoids prove offensive: And the Waters get off difficultly with others. All which may thus probably be remedied.  
First, the Patient (having been seasonably purged) may take a Tablet of Sugar of Roses, preserved Quinces, or the like, mentioned in the first Head under the Rules to be observed, which, gratifying the Brain, repels the grossness of the vapours.  
Secondly, the Hemorrhoids may be prevented by a Glister (in a little quantity the better to retain it) of common Oil, or Oil of Violets and Butter, injected a convenient space before the Patient drinks the Water; or make an Ointment of Oil of Violets, Mucillage of Psylly seeds; and a little Wax, wherewith (as also with Oil of Eggs, well beaten with the yolk of an Egg) the Part may be well anointed.  
Thirdly, as to the difficult coming off of the Water, sharp Glisters may be excellent, yet in respect there is some doubt of those as not sufficiently reaching the Parts most burdened, Caesar Claudinus his Bolus Silvius, his Electuarium Hydragogum, a neat compounded Medicine, or the deobstructive Powder mentioned in the first Treatise, pag. 27. may do well in a draught of white Wine early in the morning. Nay the same Powder taken (sometimes from a Drachm to a Drachm and a half with the water) may be a ready means to bring it off, or to prepare the Body at first, as hath been long experienced: Though if the Body still proves obstinate, it's better to desist, than force Nature to what she will not readily yield to. And yet I have found, nor are others without the same Notion, that where these, or the like waters come not off readily, they often spend themselves (even some months after) in beneficial sweats, or large salivations, nay (not seldom) in great quantities of Urine; that it hath amazed some, where the treasures of these Waters should be so long deposited without further prejudice, which (as observations very important) I could not but insert, that where the Waters are slow, hopes may not be cold. Some complain of sharpness of Urine, after drinking the Waters, though Others are certainly cured (even of this complaint) by their orderly government herein; to remedy which, Emulsions of the greater cold Seeds, white Poppy Seed, and Almonds sweetened with Sugar of Pearl, Syrup or Sugar of Althaea, may contribute much: though I have long experienced, that a draught of Florid Wine well defecated hath not had less happy effects on this complaint, than it hath found in the Dysury, or Strangury, proceeding from cold Indistempers fomented by refrigerating accidents; Of which, and the other Heads I might say more, the Field being spacious, but so these Rules (with the rational deductions that may favourably be gathered thence) may be well observed, I see not why brevity to the Reader as well as to myself may not be an advantage. Farewell.   


CAstalios Latices decantavere Poetae,  
At Lathamensis tutior haustus Aquae.  
Mens vatum Lymphata furit, corpusque tabescit▪  
Ast hinc mens sano Corpore sana viget.    

Printed in the Year 1672.