Richard Henry Lee to Landon Carter

I wish with all my heart you had found the Harlem oil as effecatious as Mr. Allen supposed, but when I heard the old Gentlemen recommending it in such strong terms, it occurred to me, that like other Carmenatives it was palliative only, and that the cause must be removed by other medicines. I do not remember any further direction for its use than the number of drops for a dose, and a general reference to the paper of directions. You reason very well on the distemper, and I make no doubt but that a proper attention to food, keeping the body from costiveness, whilst a proper tone is restored to the Intestines, will at length produce a radical cure. In sudden fits of severe pain, the Oil may perhaps, like other Carminatives procure ease, but I am convinced that a recurrence to other remedies is necessary to remove the cause. I have not any calcined Magnesia, but surely any common crucible would effect this purpose.

My family are a little indisposed at present, but next week I did propose to visit Richmond, and whilst there, I will endeavor to persuade Mr. Parker to join me in paying respects to Sabine Hall which always gives pleasure to

your affectionate friend.

R. H. Lee