Oatmeal Gruel.
1 quart of water.
2 tablespoonfuls of oatmeal.
1/2 teaspoonful of salt.
Have the water boiling in a stewpan. Stir rapidly, and sprinkle the oatmeal into it, stirring all the while. Cover, and set back where it will cook gently for two hours. At the end of that time add the salt, and serve. This gruel may be strained or not, as may be best for the patient. A part of the gruel may be poured into a cup and a few spoonfuls of milk or cream be added to it.
If the gruel be liked thick, use four tablespoonfuls of oatmeal.