In May last I was attacked with sciatica, in a severe form, and for weeks my sufferings were terrible. I had neither rest nor sleep, save at intervals, when completely exhausted. My appetite forsook me, and I loathed food in every form. Liniments, lotions, blisters, hot baths, hot bricks, were applied without relief. The galvanic battery was resorted to in vain. Day-by-day I grew weaker, until I could no longer walk about. A doctor was called in, who pronounced mine a case of extreme debility and prostration, occasioned by sciatica, and other troubles. He ordered morphine in the form of pills, and injections of both morphine and atropia. My remonstrances against the use of these drugs were met by the not very encouraging assurance that morphine could only kill, at the worst, while, without it, I could endure the fearful torture but little longer. Drugs were used freely, and frequent outward applications were made of iodine and croton oil. I suffered less and slept more. By the persistent use of quinine, iron, and whiskey I gained considerably in strength, and at the end of five weeks, by being lifted from the bed to my chair, I was able to sit up several hours each day. Still, I depended wholly on morphine to quiet the cruel pain.
While in this condition Mrs. R. J. Robinson, of Hallowell, a Christian Scientist, was sent for. She took my case, and in a few hours I sank into sound slumber. Mrs. Robinson gave me five present treatments. With her assistance I walked nearly across the room, with little inconvenience.
During the next two weeks I received absent treatments daily. The pain and soreness in my leg, back, and hip gradually subsided, and finally disappeared. My appetite and strength returned; and I can now work all day, and take long walks without feeling fatigued. In fact, I never enjoyed better health. Eleven years ago, at the birth of my youngest child, I began drinking tea, and in course of time became a most inveterate tea-bibber. Many a time I have made an entire meal of hot, strong tea, enjoying a cup of the delightful (?) beverage more than the most appetizing food. Since my recovery I drink no tea, and have no appetite for it. I have almost dispensed with the use of glasses, and seldom feel the need of them.
