908. Water is the beverage prepared by the bountiful Creator to allay the thirst of all living creatures on the earth; and when the bare quenching of thirst is the object, clear, pure cold water is the best drink that can be given: but, when other objects are to be attained, a combination becomes necessary, into which, generally, enters an acid, an alkali, a stimulus, a tonic, or some article of nourishment. In bilious diseases, acidulated drinks are often found beneficial—and one of the best of these is in the form of lemonade.
909. Lemonade.—Take fresh lemon-juice, four ounces; fresh and very thin-peeled lemon, half an ounce; white sugar, four ounces; boiling water, three pints. Let this mixture stand till cold, then strain for use. As this drink sometimes causes pain in the bowels, it should not be drank too freely.
910. Apple-Water.—Take one tart apple of ordinary size, well baked; let it be well mashed; pour on it one pint of boiling water; beat them well together; let it stand to cool, and strain it off for use. Add loaf-sugar, if the patient desire it.
911. Vinegar Mixture.—Take of good vinegar three ounces, water, one pint; loaf-sugar, two-and-a-half ounces.