There is one principle that controls the diagnosis of all cases of apoplexy among ye'r true country gentlemen--and that is, that the system is reduced and enfeebled, by habitual devotion to the decanter.

In such attacks ye canna' do warse, than to let blood.

But, I'll no be hard upon you, Sir Gervaise; and so we'll drop the subject--though, truth to say, I do not admire your poaching on my manor.

Sir Wycherly is materially better, and expresses, as well as a man who has not the use of his tongue, _can_ express a thing, his besetting desire to make his last will and testament.

In ordinary cases of _apoplexia_, it is good practice to oppose this craving; though, as it is my firm opinion that nothing can save the patient's life, I do not set myself against the measure, in this particular case.