Benjamin Franklin to John Fothergill, October 1, 1757

Tuesday morning, [October, 1757?] 5

Dear Doctor

I took the 30 grs. of Comp[oun]d Powder of Contrayerva 6 you prescribed, and had a good Night.

I had no Headach in the Morning, as when I took the Hartshorn Drops; 7 and therefore did not cup. 8

But I have had all Day yesterday, a Giddiness and Swimming in my Head, which, every time I rise up, or turn suddenly, makes me stagger a little.

I hear a humming Noise in my head, and seem now and then to see little faint twinkling Lights. And my Head feels tender.

Will Abstinence be sufficient to remove this Disorder: or do you still advise Cupping, and any thing farther, for Your affectionate Friend 9

Dr Fothergill