In the treatment of chronic diseases, the first indications of a departure from health are of the greatest value, particularly those occurring before there was any treatment. After a remedy has been given, and old symptoms reappear in the inverse order of their development, it is an indication that the cure is progressing favorably, and no other medicine should be given. So, also, in acute diseases, the value of first symptoms is great. In diphtheria for instance, the side upon which it begins may decide the choice of the remedy. *