tic flavour: it is chiefly used at the tables of the luxurious; and is one of those artificial stimulants of the palate, which deserves no commendation, especially for vitiated or relaxed habits.
SPA-WATER, a chalybeate mineral fluid, which arises from numerous springs, and particularly from that of Pouhon, in the vicinity of Spa, in Flanders.
This liquid, when first drunk, possesses the remarkable property of inducing a slight degree of intoxication. It is preferable to common water; as it more effectually allays thirst, especially in febrile complaints, which are accompanied with foulness and dryness of the throat and fauces: it is also very refreshing, after the stomach has been debilitated by excess, or intemperance.
The Spa-water affords relief in numerous complaints, especially those of the alimentary canal; in diarrhœa, and other obstruftions; as it restores the healthy action of the parts, while it promotes the usual secretions.
The dose varies according to the age and strength of the patient: it, however, seldom exceeds half a pint, which is repeated three or four times, in the course of the day. But, if the water be taken with a view to produce laxative effects, it will be proper to conjoin it with small portions of Rochelle salt, or similar gentle aperients.
SPADE, a well-known implement, which is principally employed in horticulture.
The bit, or blade of this tool, is composed wholly of iron, being about 8 or 9 inches broad, and a foot in length: the upper part is flat; and, and in the centre, there is a hole or socket, in which is insertcd a handle or shaft, being 112 inches in diameter, and about 3 feet long. It is employed for stirring and dressing the ground; the labourer thrusting it in, to the depth of ten or twelve inches, accordingly as the nature of the soil may require.
The English spades, in general, are well calculated for heavy garden soils; but, as there are many situations, especially those abounding in sand and gravel, which might be more easily managed with a tool of a different shape, we have procured the following Cut, that represents the spade employed in Tuscany, and the northern parts of Italy.
