Autograph letter signed : Venice, to Mr. Simon, 1878 September 18.

Concerning the meaning of gout and its various physical presentations; discussing the etymology of the word gout and its several meanings; saying "...be it known that amongst several meanings assigned by Dr. Johnson to the word 'gout' is 'drop', but he does not analyze the drop. The venetian physicians of the 16th century believed the arthritis to be a drop of acrid humour generated in the head and which distilled downwards, for they called it 'a descent of catarrh'- very few fine ladies will own to gout, so when the malady gets no lower than their faces they call it 'neuralgia', when it gets to the loins, Mr. Bull says he has 'lumbago,' not until it reaches his legs does he ever mention gout - never having thought of its etymology. If you agree with the 'Pantaloons,' neutralize the acid with an alkali. I cure my gout, which takes the form of lumbago, with acetate of potash, but never at any time, drink wine or eat 'green-meat', such as salads, cauliflowers, &c;" sending his regards to 'Brother John' and Mrs. Simon.