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216
has been submitted to me. It had but one peculiarity,
it was very sour, and would, for that reason,
disagree with delicate constitutions. I am glad to
report that it only contained 17 per cent, of proof
spirit.
Of Drugs I have examined six: two Calomels,
two samples of White Precipitate, and two of Bismuth
Trisnitrate. All were genuine, and of first-rate
quality.
As Baking Powders have been indicated as
supplying the alum found in some breads, I have
examined one sample. There is no mystery about
their composition, and they are quite harmless. For
use they depend upon the presence of tartaric acid
and bi-carbonate of soda. When water is added
effervescence takes place from the escape of carbonic
acid gas, and they are so compounded that bi-carbonate
of soda shall remain in excess after the completed
action of the tartaric acid upon a portion of
the bi-carbonate.
An Egg Powder I found similarly constructed.
The colouring matter was a little turmeric. If any
person believes that the egg powder furnishes any