gftRbt).SP7a MiS: Columbia (Hnitier^ftp College of J^fjps^icians; anb ^urgeong Hibrarp THE WATERS OF PLOMBIERES (VOSGES) WORKS BY THE SAME AUTHOR Des Gastrites chroniques. Paris, 1869. Des Dyspepsies flatulentes a formes douloureuses et de leur traitement par les Eaux de Plotnbieres, Paris, 1869. Des Diarrhees chroniques et de leur traitemeYCt par les Eaux de Plombieres. Paris, 1873. Guide medical aux Eaux de Plombieres. Paris, 1887 Traite des maladies du Rein, de Rosenstein, traduit de I'allemand par les docteurs Bottentuit et Labadie- Lagrave. Etiology and treatment of Muco-membranous Colitis. (British Medical Journal.) THH WATERS OF PLOMBIERES (VOSGES) BY D^ BOTTENTUIT Consulting Physician at Plomb'eres Ancien Interne des hopitaux de Paris Chevalier de la Legion d'honneur •^^ ( V LONDON & A. CHURCHILL NEW BURLINGTON STREET MoXLcnre D. Conway Nov. 17 1939 en 05 GENERAL INFORMATIONS > 2 m > 5 o o r o 2 GENERAL I xN FORM ATIONS THE ITINERARY The Eastern Railroad of France (Chemin de fer de I'Est), takes the traveller to Aillevillers, from whence a branch line leads to Plom- bieres. The Railway Station of Plombieres is a pretty one, situated opposite the Park. Several omnibuses meet every train. The station of Aillevillers is on a branch line, which joins the two main lines, leading from Paris to Strasbourg and from Paris to Belfort. One can take either of these main lines X GENERAL INFORMATIONS. from Paris. The Belfort line, by express, reaches Plombieres in 7 hours. The road by this line is 60 kilometres shorter than by the Strasbourg line. One passes by, Troyes, Ghaumont, Langres,. Port - d^ Atelier. The Strasbourg line, rather longer, passes by Eper- nay, Chalons, Bar-le-Duc. Nancy. By taking the Belfort line, one can reach Plombieres without change of carriage. In summer, from the i^* of June to the 25*^ of September, there is a special train from Paris to Plombieres, with Dining-Gar and Wagons-salons, reaching Plombieres, without change of carriage, in 6 hours. There are two roads one can take from London to Plombieres : 1° Via Paris — 6 hours from Paris to Plombieres ; 2° Via Calais-Bale — This is the shortest and cheapest route. The line from Galais to Bale {via Nancy- Epinal), passes by Galais, Amiens, Tergnier, Reims, Chalons-sur-Marne, Nancy, Epinal, Aillevillers, Plombieres. Leaving London in GENERAL INFORMATIONS. xi the evening, one reaches Plombieres at 2 p. m. next day. From Brussels to Plombieres, there are se- veral roads. One can reach Plombieres either by passing through Paris or by a cheaper route, by : Ar- lon, Athus, Longwy, Nancy, Epinal, Aillevil- lers, Plombieres. Leaving Brussels at 7 a. m. one reaches Plombieres at 9,80 p. m. The tra- veller can also take the line passing through Luxembourg, Metz, Nancy and Mirecourt. Travellers coming from the South of France, take the Paris- Lyon-Mediterranee line to Di- jon and thence they can proceed either by Gray, Vesoul, Port-d^ Atelier and Aillevillers, or else by Isle-sur-Thil, Cumont-Chalindrey, Port-d'Atelier-Aillevillers. — This latter route is shorter by 4 hours. Travellers coming from Italy or Switzer- land can take at Bale, the Calais-Bale, via Epinal-Nancy and stop at the station of Aille- villers-Plombieres from whence they reach Plombieres in 5o minutes. We must however advise all traveller to XII GENERAL INFORMATIONS. consult carefully the time tables of the diffe- rent Companies, before starting. Every year, there are changes in the hours of the trains. Hotels and Lodgings Every kind of accommodation exists at Plom- bieres for the benefit of the stranger, who only has to choose what he prefers from among the numerous larger and smaller hotels, pensions, furnished apartments and villas. There are six principal hotels at Plombieres, several smaller ones and about loo lodging houses, villas or chalets and furnished apartments with or without kitchens. Some of the lodging houses have table d'hote. The prices are generally moderate. Living costs about 4 to 7 francs a day. The price of rooms is more variable, and depends on their situation, size and comfort. — Good roms can be had for 3 francs to 8 francs a day or higher. Lodgings ought to be retained before hand. GENERAL INFORMATIONS. xiii This advice applies especially to the months of July and August. Baths The baths are divided into three classes. The price varies according to the comfort, etc. I^* CLASS. Nouveaux Thermes, Bain Romain, Bain Sta- nislas. 2*^ CLASS. Bain National, Bain des Dames. 3*^ CLASS. Bain Tempere, Bain des Capucins. Tne tickets or cachets de bains, douches and etuves are given at the Bain National, at the Nouveaux Thermes and at the Bain Stanislas. Tlie Establishments are open from 5 a. m. to 7 p. m. Mairie The bureaux are open from lo a. m. to 4 p. m. XIV GENERAL INFORMATIONS. Bureau de Poste et T61egraphe - Telephone It is situated avenue Louis-Frangais. There are daily five deliveries. The first at 7. a. m. for letters coming from Germany, Belgium, Strasbourg, Metz, Nancy. The second at 9. a. m. from Paris, England and generally North and South. The third at 10. 3o a. m. from Strasbourg, Metz, Nancy, etc. The fourth at 3. p. m. from the South. The fifth from Paris, England, etc. Reading Rooms and circulating Libraries There are several, where a good selection of books will be found. M. Soyard, rue de TEglise. M. Kastener, rue de la Prefecture. Carriages and Horses There are four or five stables, where one can hire horses or carriages for two or four persons. Breaks, etc. GENERAL INFORMATIONS. xv The excursions will be described at chap- ter V. Casino The Casino is situated on the little Prome- nade, between the town of Plombieres and the Grands Hotels. The Casino is formed by a central pavilion, and two wings. In front of the central pa- vilion there is a handsome double staircase which leads to a perron. In this central pa- vilion is a hall where visitors will find English billiards tables, the game of « petits chevaux » and oftoupies hollandaises, etc., etc. In the left wing is a theatre and ball room. In the right w^ing, leading one into the other, are the « salon des dames » , the « salon de conversation », the « salle de billards » , « ca- fes and salon de jeu ». Along the whole length of the building, there is a verandah wich is an agreeable refuge for visitors during wet wea- ther. The troup is composed of 40 artists. They XVI GENERAL INFORMATIONS. give four representations every week, on Sun- day, Tuesday, Thurday and Saturday. There are balls on Monday and Friday. Wednesday evenings are reserved for extra- ordinary representations, such as those by ar- tists who are not engaged by the season, bene- fits, etc., etc. The Band plays daily, in the morning from II 1/2 to I o^ clock and in the evening from 3 1/2 to 5. ■^■^ u. THE WATERS OF PLOMBIERES (VOSGES) CHAPTER I PLOMBIERES Situation — Topogra^phy — Antiquities Description of the town, etc. The little town of Plombieres and its valua- ble Establishment of mineral waters is situated in a deep valley, in the southern part of the De- partment of the Vosges. The origin of the name of Plombieres, in the patois of the country « Plumieres)), « Plumaires I 2 THE WATERS des anciens », « Piommer ou Piummer », has been warmly discussed and has given rise to many and sometimes very ingenious deriva- tions. Some arguing from an old but erronious theory, that these w^aters contained lead, thought and perhaps with good reason, that the name of Plombieres came from that fact. Hence the expressions : Aqiioe plumbaj^ce, Bal- neum plumbeum. Another derivation refers to an old tradition that formerly and even to the end of the ly^^ century, it was the custom on the first of May of every year, to decorate the Establishment with flowers. TheGermans who, at that period, came to these waters in greater numbers than any other people, gave them consequently the name of the Flower Bath, Blumen Bade, Plum- bersbad , Bhmibaeder, whence by a series of corruptions, the name of Plombieres. This c( Fete des fleurs » has a great analogy with certain old Roman celebrations in honor OF PLOMBIERES. 3 of their Divinities. II is very probable, thai this decoration of the Establishment v^ith flo- wers, was a continuation of an old Roman practice introduced during their occupation of Gaul. The custom would therefore be as old as the Roman domination. M. E. de Bazelaire has given another etymo- logy going even further back. He traces the dis- covery ofthese waters to the Gauls. According to this author, the name of Plombieres is deri- ved from two Celtic words « Plon » water, and « Ber )) hot. The Euphonic M is often in the Celtic language, found before a B. Hence the word Plomber, If we accept tnis theory, the town of Plombieres owes its name to its waters, as in fact it owes its existence and its prosperity. The recent discovery of old Celtic ornaments appears to give credit to this last mentioned theory. Nothing positive is known about the disco- very of the waters. Here as elsewhere a popu- lar tradition ascribes it to Hunters. 4 THE WATERS During a hard frost, some hunters having penetrated with a pack of hounds, into the Valley of the Eaugronne, as yet quite uncul- tivated, were surprised to see their dogs wet and covered with steam. Following the ani- mals, they came to an old oak where they found some others washing themselves in hot water. Hence the discovery of the c( Source du Chene », known to-day as the « Source du Crucifix «. Dom Calmet states that a bronze plate was found bearing the following inscription, com- memorative of the reparation of the Baths by the Emperor Augustus. a Termce Plumberiance ab Augusto Ccesare restitutce. » Evidently this fact pleads in favor of Mon- sieur de Bazelaire's theory, that these Baths existed previously to the Roman invasion. Dom Calmet tells us that many historians ascribe the edification of the Baths to the cele- brated victor of Attila, yEtius, about 428 A. D. OFPLOMBIERES. 5 According to Dom Calmet, more than fifty years before our era, Julius Cgesar or his lieu- tenantLabienus had employed his soldiers to deepen the river and build a wall to separate the hot mineral waters from the cold ones of the stream. He adds that in his time, there were still remains of this great work, and even to-day one traces under the « Pavilion des Dames »^ a great wall built of enormous blocks of hard cut stone placed one on the other, for- ming a kind of staircase. This wall divides the stream into two parts and thus isolates the hot mineral waters from the cold ones of the river. Many of the stones bear on them inscrip- tions in capital letters. So excellent is this work that the junction of the different stones is almoct imperceptible. This wall rests on large and square blocks of granite, which are embed- ded in a thick layer of cement. So strong is this cement that it can to-day be broken only by the action of powder. 6 THE WATERS The same constructions of stones and cement extend beneath a great part of the town. They were built so as to receive the water of the mi- neral Sources and to form vast Baths or Pis- cines containing not less than 400 ou 5oo cu- oic metres of water. In other points, the vapor of the water, was collected in chambers and formed, what the Romans called « vaporarium » . They are to-day styled « Etuves ». The subterranean works prove the impor- tance of the Baths, which existed at that pe-. riod. The excavations and discoveries made at different times have further demonstrated how considerable these old Roman construc- tions were. The works carried out during the reign of Louis XV for the foundation of the c( Bain Tempere », revealed the remains of some ancient Bronze water cocks, the remains of columns of the Doric order and other inte- resting antiquities. Subsequently other disco- veries of old Roman w^orks, were made during OF PLOMBIERES. 7 the excavations done by the order of Napo- leon III. These relics can be seen to-day. Be- sides these, many other interesting antiquities of Roman origin, have at different times been discovered. Whilst carrying out works orde- red by the Duke Leopold de Lorraine, a bronze slab bearing the following inscription^ was found. DEAO NEPTVN JOVSTISSIA VESTINA V : S : EM According to Rouvroy, the interpretation of this inscription appears to be that a lady, by name Vestina offered her vows to Neptune in gratitude for her restoration to health at Plom- bieres. M. de Beaulieu also cited the existence of a bas-relief on the pedestal of a tomb, dating 8 THE WATERS from the 3"^*^ century, bearing the following in- scription : A. CATORAVE A. NAILLO CONSURU O. DONAVIT Aulus Catorave offered this tomb to Aulus Naillus a slave like himself. According to Martinet, Grosjean and others, at different periods, vestiges of the Roman do- mination have been found. Amongst these a Celto Roman statue and numerous medals and coins bearing the effegies of Julius Gsesar, Neron, Vespasien, Trojan^ Faustine, Adrien, etc., etc. These and other antiquities, as well as the remains of the ancient Roman Baths, can be seen in the museums of Epinal and of Remi- remont. The extent and nature of the old construction. OF PLOMBIERES. 9 the curious and valuable relics found in exca- vations at different periods, prove without doubt, that the Romans frequented the Baths of Plombieres and founded an important esta- blishment there. This establishment which owed its origin to the Romans, was destroyed by the wars which culminated in the fall of the Roman Empire, in the 4^^' and 5* cen- turies. According to Baldiiiniis Richard de Wasse- bourg who is quoted by Dom Calmet, Ambron, grand-son of Pharamond, rebuilt the Baths, towards the end of the fifth century. Anyhow since the Romans settled there, Plombieres has undergone many changes and many catastrophies, which it is impossible to describe accurately to-day and many of which historymakes no mention. It would however seem that at no period these baths have ever been entirely abandoned, as happened to so many others. This is a strong proof of the value of their waters. 10 THE WATERS In the 6^^ or 7^*^ century,the Religious houses of S^ Colomban and S^ Romaric were founded. Their presence no doubt induced around them the settlement of a peaceful population, and there are good reasons to believe that, thanks to them and to that of the waters of Plom- bieres, these parts became in early times more settled and more civilised than the other dis- tricts of the Vosges. Historians relate that Queen Brunehaut (in 598), inhabited the Vosges with a large and sumptuous court and that she strove to repro- duce old Roman customs and habits. No doubt she was often a visitor to these waters. Charlemagne too had a Palace at Remiremont and came there witli his son Louis the Pious, to hunt and hsh. He too no doubt visited Plom- bieres. Towards the close of the 9'^^ century, Queen Valdrade, wife of Lothaire II, after her separation from her husband, inhabited the Abbey of Remiremont. She too may very li- OFPLOMBIERES. 11 kely have frequented these Baths. These con- jectures help to fill a gap in the history of Plombieres. It is also probable that Plombieres did not escape injury at the beginning of the tenth century, when the Hungarians ravaged the whole country and destroyed the celebrated monastery of S* Mont. The most reliable history ot Plombieres is to be found in the M. S. Chronicles of the Domi- nicans of Colmar. Wereadinthem,thatin i 292 Duke Ferry III of Lorraine built a stronghold above the Baths of Plombieres to defend Bathers against wicked men. At that time the country was desolated by small feudal Lords, and also by bands of banditti, styled « Rou- tiers » and (.^ Compagnie d'ecorcheiu'S. » It was against these marauders that this stronghold was built. The ground formerly occupied by this historical castle is now the garden of M">^ veuve Parisot. It is situated be- hind and a little below the « Gendarmerie «. 12 THE WATERS This fact explains the name which M"^^ Pari- sof s house bears of « Mejy du Guard )), or Me^ du Gard », « Jar din du Guet ». The Dungeon of the ancient castle commu- nicated with the « Bain de la Reine » by means of a door and covered way. We have no re- cord of the time or the reasons for the destruc- tion of the castle. All we know, is that the feudal rights which belonged to the noble Chapter of the Dames Chanoinesses de Remi- remont, was given by them during more than a century, to a league of small feudal Lords styled « Sires de Plumieres ». Later on, these rights reverted to the noble Chapter of the Dames de Remiremont and the Due de Lorraine. It is in the 17^^ century that the renown of the water of Plombieres reaches its highest fame. The good King Stanislas, who out of grati- tude, the Lorrains have surnamed the Father of the people, contributed much towards the OF PLO MB IE RES. 13 amelioration of the Establishment, and thus in- creased its prosperity. At this time, noble strangers of every country flocked to Plom- bieres. The daughters of Louis XV took the waters here, Montaigne who had visited nearly all the Baths of Europe writes : « Qiie ceiix oil ily a le plus d'amenite de lieu, commodites de logis, de vivres et de compagnies, etc., sont , en France, ceux de Bagneres et ceiix de Plom- bieres. » In 1/53, Voltaire and his celebrated enemy, the President Maupertuis both visited Plom- bieres. Voltaire, who as one knows, was the guest of Frederick the Great at Berlin, quarrelled with his Royal protector. He had previously intro- duced to the German Court his compatriot the President Maupertuis, soon however, he found in him a rival and jealousy prompted him to abandon the Court. He pleaded the state of health and begged for leave to go to Plom- 14 THE WATERS bieres, urging the great superiority of these Baths over all Germain waters. Permission was granted. On his road there, he met with the most unexpected delays and difficulties, all of which were created by his Royal and tyran- nic friend, Frederick the Great. To his disgust, on at last reaching Colmar^ he learnt that his dreaded enemy, from whom he was escaping, the President Maupertuis, was himself at Plom- bieres. He decided to put up at the Convent of Se- nonnes. Here the hospitality accorded to him by the learned Dom Calmet, induced him, at least so he writes, to forget the world and all its annoyances. He waited there until the President Mau- pertuis had left Plombieres. These two au- thors, destined to remain rivals during the rest of their lives, agreed but on one point... the efficacity of the waters of Plombieres. Amongst other historical celebrities, who have frequented Plombieres, let us mention : e c OF PLOMBIERES. 17 Under the first Empire, the Queens of Spain and of Holland, the Empress Josephine. Under the Restoration, the Duchess of An- gouleme; under the reign of Louis-Philippe, the Duchess of Orleans, who returning home one day, from a walk, learnt the death of her husband, killed by a fall from a carriage. The Emperor Napoleon III came eight times to Plombieres and left numerous traces of his passage. Thanks to his initiative the Church, the Hospital, and cdes Grands Hotels » were built, the Park and some of the principal roads were made. It was at Plombieres, that the Emperor met the Gomte de Gavour and that the « Pacte de Plombieres » which eventually led to the Ita- lian war, was concluded. During these last years the town of Plom- bieres has been honored by the visits of the Duke and Duchess of Chartres, the Grand Vizir Midhat Pacha and the Prince Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha. 18 THE WATERS DESCRIPTION OF THE TOWN, It is, as we have seen, very difficult to give a trustworthy account of the origin of the town of Plombieres or the date of its foundation, and still more difficult, to follow the vicissi- tudes through which it has passed. All we can say is that to-day, it is a very pleasing looking little town, and a very clean one. Situated in a deep valley, surrounded, as it were, by two mountains, it is thus protected on the South East and North West. Across the valley flows a small but rapid river called the « Eaugronne )). It rises atOlichamp, receives in its course before penetrating into « Plom- bieres » the little stream of « Saint-Antoine », follows the « Promenade des Dames « and penetrates into the town passing under the « Pont des Vaches ». Once in the town, it disappears under the houses flowing on a bed formed by blocks of granite. OFPLOMBIERES. 19 On leaving the town of Plombieres, the stream follows a delicious valley, till it throws itself into the river Serr or « Pavilion des Princes ». Here formerly the State offered hospitality to distinguished persons visiting Plombieres. The Emperor Napoleon III inhabited it. La Rue de la Prefecture is terminated by a bridge traversing the Eaugronne, which leads to the promenade where the new Casino has been built. Recent constructions have much modified the appearance of this part of the town. Here we find shops filled with magnificent embroideries, faiences of Lorraine and the no- 28 THE WATERS ted iron, and ornamental steel work for which Nancy has a so well deserved a reputation. The so called « La petite Promenade » leads Petite Promenade in 1879. from the town to the « Grands Hotels ». It is a Square surrounded by large trees. Three times a day a band plays here, and whilst listening to the music, visitors can rest OFPLOxMBIERES. 29 in a pleasant shade. On one side or the Square, is the « Nouveau Casino » built in 1 879. The Casino is formed of a Central Pavilion Petite Promenade in il and two wings, in front of the Central Pavilion there is a handsome double staircase which leads to a Perron, In this Central Pavilion is 30 THE WATERS a hall where visitors will find English Billiard tables, the game of « Petits chevaux » and of Toupies hollandaises, etc. etc. In the left wing is a theatre and ball room. Four times a week theatrical representations are given. On other days balls or concerts. In the right wing leading one into the other, are the « Salons des Dames », the Salons de conversation, the Salle de Billards, Cafes and Salons de Jeu. Along the whole length of the building there is a Verandah, which is an agreeable refuge for visitors during wet weather. The river Eaugronne walled in, as has been already described, by solid structures, passes beneath the « Petite Promenade ». Here where the valley grows narrower, the « Nouveaux Thermes » and the « Grands Hotels » have been built. The « Nouveaux Thermes », formerly cal- led the {( Bain Napoleon », are some of the largest and best of Plombieres and in fact of OF PLOMBIERES. 31 any in existence. They are composed of three floors of Baths. The lo^^'est, beneath the level ground, is occupied by private Baths and Les Grands-Hotels. « Etuves )•>. On the rez-de-chaussee, that is to say, on the level of the ground, are private Baths, with dressing rooms, private Douches, 32 THEWATERS and marble Piscines or swimming Baths. On the first floor, Douches and dressing rooms. The centre is occupied by a lofty gallery of over 100 metres of length, which connects together the two Hotels built at the same time as the Baths. These two Hotels can give hospitality to 200 persons, who will there obtain lodging and table d'hote, and are able to take the baths without leaving the Establishment. Between the Hotels and the Nouveaux Ther- mes, there is a large garden open to visitors, who will there find an agreeable lounge. Here they can take a stroll in the evening before darkness obliges them to retire to the saloons of the Hotels, where other amusements are awaiting them. In wet weather, the gallery or Hall, which unites the two Hotels, becomes a convenient and agreeable Promenade. Opposite the nouveaux Thermes, on the pther side of the Route d'Aillevillers, is th$ OF PLOMBIERES. 33 beautiful building of the « Chalet Rose », and near it the « Chalet Tivoli «, a dependance of the Grands Hotels. Chalet Tivoli. The western facade of the Grands Hotels overlooks the park de Plombieres. Le Grand Park, which will be described hereafter, commences at the Grands Hotels. 3 34 THEWATERS La Rue de PEglise is parallel with the Rue Stanislas. It is the continuation of the Route de Luxeuil and d^Aillevillers. The Hopital and Salle d'asile for children, is on this road as is also the Hotel de la Genda?^merie, which is situated, at the point where it bifurcates with the Route de Luxeuil. The Hotel de la Gen- darmerie is on the spot, once occupied by a Castle built by Ferry III, due de Lorraine, in order to protect strangers who came to Plom- bieres, to take the waters. The Rue d^Epinal is very steep. The houses situated on either side are inhabited by the poorer classes. Continually, passing along this street, are to be seen pious pilgrims, wen- dingtheir wayto the «Chapellede Saint Joseph)) and to the statue of « Notre-Dame de Plom- bieres )), intent on offering their vows. The Promenade des Dames, situated on the Eastern side de Plombieres, is the continua- tion of the Route de Remiremont. King Stanis- las ordered its creation in honor of his grand OF PLOMBIERES. 35 daughters Mesdames Adelaide and Victoire de France. Chalet Gentilhomme. Numerous obstacles had he to overcome before he could finish it. It is one of the most charming promenades 36 THE WATERS of theenvirons. Situatedatthe bottom of aval- ley, the sides of which are planted with magni- ficent trees, it is of a grandiose aspect. The river Eaugronne flows on one side and the shade thrown by the secular trees on its banks, offers a great attraction during summer months. The Eaugronne was the scene of a re- markable historical experiment. In 1804, the great inventor Fulton exibited before the Empress Josephine a small steam boat, w^hich passed up the Eaugronne, against the current. At the end of this promenade, is a large ma- nufactory of agricultural and also of instru- ments for domestic purposes. Six or seven hundred workmen are regularly employed in it. It belongs to M. de Pruines. Thanks to his benevolent exertions, this manufacture is a source of profit and benefit to the working population of the country. The climate of Plombieres is temperate and healthy. The air, like that of allthemountains of the Vosges, is pure. OF PLOMBIERES. 37 The town is situated at 466 , metres above the level of the sea, and consequently the variations of temperature are frequent, and there are certain precautions, which strangers should take and w^hich shall be noticed hereafter. The population of Plombieres is about 1800. A large proportion of these inhabitants gain their livelihood in part, by letting lodgings. Visitors will find at reasonable prices, good lodging and good living. There are two other occupations for the work- ing classes of Plombieres, worthy of notice. First the manufactory of every imaginable kind of article in steel, including personal or- naments. The workmanship is really admi- rable and there are few strangers, who do not carry away with them some pretty little trifle, as a recollection of their stay at Plombieres. The second manufacture is that of lace and embroidery, more recently established but scar- cely less perfect in its execution. Visitors can find very simple, but pretty 38 THE WATERS specimens of this work or if they prefer it, works of art, which will favorably compare with those of Venice. This manufacture is a precious resource for the working classes of the country. Children, from infancy, are brought up to it. Plombieres is a « Chef-lieu de Canton )>, It has a (( Justice de paix )->, « Brigade de Gen- darmerie^ « Bureau de Poste^ » and « Tele- graphe ». The waters belong to the State, but have been let to a private Company. Strangers will easily find accomodation in Hotels^ Boarding Houses ov Maisonsmeublees. Many of these Boarding houses have also « Tables d^hote. » Besides the Casino^ there are several Cafes wdth Billiard tables Reading rooms and lending libraries. The Casino has an excellent reading room, in which will be found the principal Parisian journals and many provincial and foreign ones. OFPLOMBIERES. 39 The Band of the Casino plays three times a day. Every evening, when there is not a ball, there is either a theatrical or a musical enter- tainment. Besides these sources of amusement, visitors will find it easy to make pleasant excursions into the country. The beautiful scenery of the environs of Plombieres is an inducement for walking ex- cursions. The country is of easy access. Bath chairs and des « chaises a porteurs » are easily to be obtained. Amateurs of donkey rides will find these useful animals always ready, before the Casino and the « Bain Romain )). Excellent horses and carriages are to be hired. Strangers can thus make long excursions and visit beautiful sites, which can be com- pared with the most noted spots in the Alps. CHAPTER II THE THERMAL ESTABLISHMENT Baths and Douches The Establishment at Plombieres is one of the finest in France. We propose to describe its different divisions The Baths are divided into three classes, according to the comfort to be found. Bain Roraain (first Class) The Bain Romain situated in the centre of the town, owes its name to the fact of being -42 THE WATERS built over the remains of an ancient « Piscine » of Roman construction. It was, formerly the only Bath in Plombieres. Interior of the Bain Romain. Historians tell us that formerly, it constitu- ted one vast swimming Bath or Piscine, of 100 metres in length, which extended to the OFPLOMBIERES. 43 point where to-day, the Bain Tempere exists. Four or five hundred persons could bathe there together. Even up to the middle of the 16*'' century, this Bath had undergone little change. The following lines, w^ritten by Joachim Camerarius in a Poem on Plombieres, appearto prove this. Primum valle Lacus patet recurva, Diversoria quem undequaque cingunt, In quo femina, vir, puer, puella, Pauper, nobilis, eruditus, infans, Et tardus senis, et levis juventa, Quique eat integer et cicatricosus, Quique et saucius est et ulcerosus, Sanus, morbidus, universi eodem Undae membra fovent lacu calentis, Quem circum paries datus coercet, Passus qui bis habet fere ducentos. The Establishment to-day consists of a large gallery built over the Piscine and surrounded by 24 private baths and dressing rooms. 44 THE WATERS Bain Stanislas (first Class) This Bath is situated in what was formerly « La Maison des Dames «. The ground floor is composed of two large rooms, in which massage is carried on. One is reserved for ladies, the other for gentlemen. From each of these rooms, there is a staircase leading to the Etuves. These rooms contain « lits de repos » on which patients recline whilst being scham- poed, after leaving the Etuves. On the ground floor, there is a complete Esta- blishment in which every imaginable kind of Douche is to be found. There is also a hand- some waiting room. The first floor consits of separate rooms, each of which contains a bath and a douche, to each is attatched a comfortable dressing room. OF PLOMBIERES. 45 Nouveaux Thermes . (first Clpss) The largest of all at Plombieres, used for- merly to be called the « Bain Napoleon », in Interior of the Nouveaux Thermes. recollection of its Founder Napoleon III. It is situated between the two « G?'ands Hotels » 46 THE WATERS and communicates with them. It is composed of three floors. On the ground floor, there are 3o rooms, each contains a bath, a Tivoli douche and a dressing room. The Tivoli Douche is a hot one, usually given immedia- tely after leaving the bath. Besides these 3o baths, there are 8 other rooms which contain « Douches Ecossaises «, (that is to say a douche of alternately hot and cold water) ; and other forms of hydrotherapic appliances. All these rooms open on a large gallery, 60 metres long and eleven high. In rainy weather it forms a pleasant walk. On the first floor there is a gallery running round the whole Establishment, into which open 32 rooms, containing baths, Tivoli dou- ches, etc. Bain National (second Class) Situated opposite the Bain Tempere and separated only by the Rue de la Prefecture is OF PLOMBIERES. 47 the Bain National. It is a modern construc- tion, occupying the site where formerly stood the « Couvent des Capucins ». The building was commenced under the first Empire and finished in 1821. On the ground floor, there are four marble Piscines. The marble is of the Vosges. They can accommodate 80 bathers and are all reser- ved to the use of ladies. There are twenty private rooms with baths, and douches and several rooms, where different kinds of vapor baths can be given. These vapor baths are of great utility. A stream of vapor can be directed on any part of the body, on an arm, a leg or elsewhere, according to the requirements of the case. The first floor contains of thirty rooms with baths and douches. In a separate building, but attatched to these Baths, are two piscines, lined with Vosgian marble, which were built for the use of the Empress Josephine and re- paired in 1843 for M™^ la Duchesse d'Orle'ans. 48 THE WATERS Bain des Dames (second Class) Named thus after the ancient and celebrated Abbaye of the Dames chanoinesses de Remi- remont. The Abbaye belonged to the Dames Cha- noinesses from the 1 3^^ century to 1789. It was also formerly called the « Bam de la Reine « because the Princess of Lorraine, the Queens of Sicily and of Denmark, chose it as their Bath. Dom Calmet states that this name of « Bain des Dames », can be traced much further back, to the time of Queen Valdrade, wife of Lothaire II, Queen of Austrasia. This Establishment is situated on the left bank of the Eaugronne and is composed of two parts. On the ground floor are two pis- cines, in each of which i5 persons can bathe at a time. There are also private baths, dou- ches and dressing rooms. This Establishment OF PLOMBIERES. 49 is reserved for the use ot the Hospital patients. The floor above is composed of a handsome Hall, on which open 14 private baths and douches. Bain Tempere (third Class) It was built in 1772. Whilst excavating the foundations, most interesting Roman remains were found, which consisted of copper water- cocks, parts of columns, remains of sculpture. On the ground floor are four marble pis- cines, each ofwhich is capable of accomodating - twenty four bathers. They are reserved to the use of men. Around the piscines, are private baths and douches. The Bain Tempere can accomodate 140 per- sons. Bain des Gapucins (third Class) Is a single piscine situated next to the Bain Tempere and communicating with it by a 4 50 THE WATERS covered passage. Its length is six metres by four. The water, wich comes from the cele- brated spring of the Capucins, well known for its properties in cases of sterility, enters by a circular opening. Etuves. Two in number, the Etuves Romaines, and the Etuves de I'Enfer. The Etuves Romaines are situated at the highest point of the town. The Romans usually built their Etuves at the point where the water was the hottest. These Etuves were lost till the reign of Napoleon III. Before this discovery, the only available ones were those called : « Etuves de Bassompierre », si- tuated near the maison Herise. This Etuve was either built or perhaps only restored by Charles-Louis de Bassompierre, who accompanied the Due de Lorraine to Plombieres. OFPLOMBIERES. 51 The doorway slill bears his name graven on it. For many years and even to-day they are given over to the use of the Hospital. Whilst the Emperor Napoleon III was at Plombieres, M. Jutier, the able Engineer, whilst examining the sources situated under the Etuve Bassompiere, found traces of an an- cient Roman piscine. It has since been con- verted into two Etuves. In 1882 a passage w^as made, from each of them, leading to the Bain Stanislas. One of these Etuves, used to-day by men, has been left in its primitive condition. At one of its angles several hot springs rise directly from the granite. When this piscine was discovered, a large bronze watercock, which had been closed for centuries, but which still bore on it a key, was found. Time had stiffened it and it was at first, im- possible to use it. An iron rod was intro- duced into the ring which surmounted it and after some efforts, it yielded and a great jet of 52 T H E W A T E R S hot water (74 cent., i55 Farenheit) gushed out. It is the hottest known spring in the world. The other Etuves, destined to the use of ladies, are entirely lined with white marble. A passage leads from each of these Etuves to the Bain Stanislas, where are situated the salles de massage. Here there are forty rooms with « lits de repos », where the patients^ after they have undergone massage, can take a douche or other hydrotherapic treatment. The superficial size of the Etuves is i5o square metres and M. Jutier tells us that, if it w^ere necessary to increase this space, there exists at a somewhat higher level, another ancient Roman piscine, in a perfect state of conserva- tion, which might be employed. Besides these, there are other Etuves situa- ted at the Bain National and called the Etuves de VEnfer. They are thus named from the source which supplies them, whose temperature is 65 degrees centigrades (149 Farenheit). OFPLOMBIERES. 53 This Etuve is divided into different compart- ments, each of which is preceded by a dressing room. The manner in which heat is used in these different Etuves, is very various. The temperature too, is very variable and can be applied in a progressive manner^ so as to enable the patient, little by little, to enure himself to higher temperatures. Temperatures which at first, would have been unbearable, are often, thanks to this progressive increase, easily supported. The vapor can be applied either locally, to a part of the body or generally, to the whole. There are rooms set apart for local applica- tions of vapor, to the arms, legs or other parts of the body. The Etuves « en Boites » deserve also to be mentioned, they consist of boxes of ingenious construction, in which the head alone is unco- vered and the rest of the body is plunged in the hot vapor. CHAPTER III SPRINGS The sources of mineral water are numerous, they yield together 750 cubic metres daily. To facilitate the study of these sources, they may be divided into three categories which will be successively considered. 1° Sources thermo-minerales. 2° Sources savonneuses. 3° Sources ferrugineuses. Sources thermo-minerales. These waters may be divided into three se- parate groupes. I® Les sources imperiales. — Three in num- ber, they rise at the highest point of the great 50 THE WATERS aqueduc called the Thalweg. They pass un- der the floor of the « Etuves » and communi- cate to them their high temperature. The mean temperature of these waters is 69° (i56 Farenheit). They are at once the hot- test and most mineralised waters of Plom- bieres. 2° The sowces de Vaqueduc dii Thah^eg. — They are nineteen in number and all rise in the space contained between the « nouvelles Etuves » and the « Bain Tempere ». Their mean temperature is 58° (iB/ Faren- heit). 3*» The « sources isolees ». — They bear the following names : Muller, du Crucifix, des Dames, des Gapucins, Fournie, Lambinet, Bizot, Sainte-Claire. The most important ofthese,are the (i Sources des Darnes » and « du Crucifix ». OF P LOME IE RES. 57 They are the only waters used internally, that is to say, used medically as drinking waters. The source des Dames, called also the source (( du Bain des Dames », a de Diane » or « de la Reine » rises on the left bank of the Eau- gronne. Its temperature and yield are very steady. It is an interesting fact to notice that the en- gineering works, executed in 1856 did not, as was often the case, in any degree diminish ei- ther of these qualities. In the case of the neigh- bouring source of the Crucifix, the result was different. The source des Dames has a well deserved reputation for the cure of cases of painful af- fection of the stomach and intestine (Dyspep- sia , gastralgia , enteralgia , chronic diar- rhoea, etc.). Its temperature is 5i cent. (124 Farenheit.) The source du Crucifix was almost the only one used forty years ago for drinking purposes. 58 THE WATERS Since the recent works, its temperature and its yield have considerably decreased. The temperature to-day, is only 43 cent, (109 Farenheit). It is consequently less popular than for merly. The following analytic table, due to MM. Ju- tier and Lefort, gives the mineral properties of the principal sources. The result of the analysis of the waters, induced these eminent chemists to formulate a law, applicable in a general way to all mineral waters , namely, that there exists a direct relation between the temperature of a spring and its de- gree of mineralisation. Sources savonneuses. They were discovered in 1680 by Alliot, the physician of Louis XIV.. Several of these springs pass into the « galerie des Savon- ^ Otos ir: OO .r-iCO ^- , iO w .se i = o :>occ . S -^ .10 i-O "^ O O w " M ^o ->c C/3 C-5 ai 00 to >=*■ CO o « CJ 5 S 1/) iil O ^j* o O ,» ro C-- . — c ro CO . O' ■T3 CO o " OO E^ O oo cc 05 O CO CO to Oi CO CJ 00 1^ "—.OOO UO CO O CO 5J '-H u •^ VD 'J ooo ^ O o ^ c- — >^ oo CO CO 3C' O r- ^ ^H PJ , 2 oc CO t^ .00 CO CO CD C-- C=?< CO w iO' *-^i ^.k o u f^ = IT- ro ro . '^ •^ CO -^ ^ O 2 ?Z ^ oj D- y o o cj rt 2! P ^ -3 < ^ ^ o -5 OO P (M — OOO -^O - O O w ■" *- o ■" ■^ ^- •" -= CiC- O OC CI c^ -^ CO ~3 W u - GC --ir- . C5 , CO r- vrx o T3 OC ^ *, w " O O c^ to d m -2^£ -0 5: w i> r- ^ ;^ ^ ocN T- a t- ! OO CO 00 «?" , CO W = ro iO o . O OO c- c- . --■* -rj u , z -^^ o^ o 05 OO to tyi CO c— CO O CO •o o ::J 3 -■ ■i, ^ o iri iTo ;, « Douche en cercle «, « Douche en couronne », C8 THEWATERS The « Douche locale » is divided into the fol- lowing categories : « Douches intestinales )> ou « ascendantes », « vaginales » et « peri- neales », They can be given either hot or cold, ot vv^ith alternally hot and cold water. They can be either stimulating or exciting or on the other hand, « derivative » or « reso- lutive)). It is not necessary to enter here into further details. All we need say is that since the construction of the «NouveauxThermes)), Plombieres possesses one of the most com- plete thermal Establishments which exists. It is scarcely necessary to say how impor- tant has been the action of the Etuves in the treatment of Rheumatism, Gout and Obesity. Their influence has always been acknowled- ged. Internally as a drink, it is especially the waters of the « Source des Dames )), du « Cru- cifix )) and of the « Sources savonneuses )), which are employed. CHAPTER IV MEDICAL INDICATIONS OF THE WATERS OF PLOMBIERES The softness of the waters of Plombieres, their tranquilising and calming effects, have from time immemorial made them one of the most successful remedies for affections of the nervous system. The action of the nervous system can either be exagerated, or diminished. Thus, in some cases, one sees symptoms of exagerated action with nervous et'ethisma. In others, symptoms of torpor, prostration of the nervous system 70 THE WATERS and consequent disturbance of all the func- tions which depend on their action. To meet the indications of the first series of these cases, we must seek for agents, whose effects will be calming and sedative. To meet those of the second series, we must look for agents, whose action will be energetic and sti- mulating. The waters of Plombieres can meet these requirements according to the mode of their administration. The Physician must therefore so direct the treatment as to obtain one or other of the required effects. The principal property how- ever of these waters is a calming or regulari- sing one on the nervous system. It is to this sedative action that the principal effects of the waters of Plombieres are due. The waters can be used however not merely so as to obtain a sedative action, but so as to ensure at the same time a derivative, a tonic or a stimulating one. It is the carefully combined use of these dif- OF PLOMBIERES. 71 ferent methods which produces the most satis- factory results. Diseases of Intestinal tube Affections of these organs are very frequent, they are also those most often treated at Plom- bieres. It must not however be rashly argued, that these waters suit every kind of disorder of the digestive tube. We will here briefly indi- cate those which are likely to receive most be- nefit from their use. Gastralgia One of the principal triumphs of the waters of Plombieres is in those disorders, where the element pain predominates. Gastralgia is the- refore an affection which has often been happily treated at Plombieres. 7^ THE WATERS The treatment is particularly successful when the pain of the Gastralgia is fixed and espe- cially when the affection is dependant on the rheumatic Diathesis or when it is more or less complicated by Dyspepsia. Dyspepsia It would be too long to describe here every kind of Dyspepsia. These waters are especially useful in cases of Dyspepsia, dependant on the rheumatic or herpetic Diathesis. But the best results, due no doubt to the sedative effects of these waters, are found in the treatment of the flatulant and painful forms. (Dyspepsies ila- tulentes et douloureuses.) We may say as much of Stomachal Vertigo. (Vertigo a stomacho laeso.) In numerous cases, Gastralgia and Dyspepsia are found as secondary affections amongst a cortege of other symptoms, due to different pri- OF PLOMBIERES. 73 mary diseases. The general health fails, the patients do not eat or cannot digest and daily lose flesh and strength. In these cases, the sedative effects of the waters of Plombieres, are most useful. M. le professeur Axenfeld has thus tersely formulated the indication of these waters, in such circumstances. « To relieve pain is often the best mode of assuring digestion and assimilation. Is not therefore the relief of pain the first indication in the treatment of many neuropathic condi- tions, dependant on a general state of debi- lity? " In truth a disease may be successfully combated by a remedy which is directed only against its secondary effects. We are therefore authorised to say that, whenever digestion is painful, whatever the primary cause, the wa- ters of Plombieres may be employed with good hope of success. Their sedative effect will infallably produce a notable amelioration of the nervous phenomena and we may even expect, 74 THE WATERS that in certain cases, by a happy action on the general condition, their use will result in a complete cure. (Bottentuit, Traitement des dyspepsies, i86g.) Diseases of the Intestines What has been said above, concerning the affections of the Stomach, applies with equal force to these of the Intestine, such as : Ente- ralgia, gastro-intestinal Dyspepsia, etc., etc. The Diathesis plays here too an important part. The intestinal affections dependant on the rheumatic and herpetic Diathesis, are those in which these waters are most successful. There is a categorie of affections of the Intes- tines, in which the waters of Plombieres act, one may say, as a specific, namely in Chronic Diarrhea. Before however prescribing the mode of treatment by these waters, in each particular case of Diarrhoea, the Physician OF PLOMBIERES. 75 should inquire into its nature, its causes and its complications. We will not enter here into further details. The reader who wishes for more information on the point, whill find it in our work on Chronic Diarrhoea ^ To resume, the action of these waters in the affections of the intestinal Tube, is twofold. They relieve the pain and by their action on the nervous system, regularise the functions of the Intestine. Diseases of Women These diseases are, after those of the intes- tinal tube, the ones most often treated at Plom- bieres. The mode of treatment varies much with the I. Bottentuit, Des diarrhees chroniques et de leiir trai- tement par les Eaux de Plombieres, in-8° de 128 pages; 1873. 76 THE WATERS form of disease under which the patient suffers. We may repeat what we said above, namely that here too the Diathesis plays an important part. Let us state at once, that patients suffe- ring from the rheumatic or herpetic Diathesis, will derive great benefit from the use of these waters, whilst, on the other hand, those suf- fering from the scrofulous Diathesis or from chlorotic affections, should seek other stations. One of the most important elements in the study of uterine affections, is the nevropathic element. This, in many cases, is the one which should be combated most vigorously, because, on the one hand, until relieved, there is little or no hope of cure, and on the other hand, it is a di- rect obstacle to the action of all general modes of treatment. The sedative effects of the waters of Plombieres, are in such cases, of great bene- fit. The calming and sedative mode of treatment by these waters, is useful in cases of Uterine OFPLOMBIERES. 77 Neuralgia, Irritable Uterus, etc., and especially in chronic Metritis. The stimulating treatment, should be directed against certain functional troubles of the Womb, Dysmenorrhoea, Amenorrhoea, Sterility, espe- cially when due to a faulty developement of this organ Gout. — Rheumatism. From time immemorial, Plombieres has been a favorite resort of sufferers from Gout. The great and ancient reputation of these Baths, proves that the results of the treatment, have in such cases, been fortunate. So numerous were gouty patients, that the Bain des Capucins was formerly called the « Bains des Goutteux ». The waters of Plombieres and the treatment adopted there, is especially suited to cases of chronic Gout, offering a fixed and persistent character. We must however add, that these 78 THE WATERS waters are very useful in cases of Gout, accom- panied by nervous erethisma. The waters of Plombieres are not less sove- reign in rheumatic affections. They possess two properties which are of the greatest utility in the treatment of such cases. i° Their high temperature. 2° An Establishment fitted with the best and most varied appliances to be found anywhere. Patients who cannot bear the Douches or the Etuves at other Stations can, thanks to a Judi- cious use of the Baths, support them and will reap great advantage from them. In such cases the Douches and Baths are given simultane- ouslv and thus the sedative effect of the Bath diminishes the exciting action of the Douche, without destroying its stimulating qualities. Rhumatism, as is well known, often attacks the Viscera. Its commonnest manifestations are those of Gastralgia and Enteralgia. Often it assumes other forms, less frequent perhaps, but more difficult to trace. OFPLOMBIERES. 79 In all such cases, the waters of Plombieres have a happy effect, but more than that, they combat, not only the effects of the rheumatic Diathesis, but the Diathesis itself, which is the origin of all these troubles. Affections of the nervous system The waters of Plombieres will be found very useful in the treatment of Neuralgia. But it would be an error to suppose that every case will .be benefitted by them. We have already studied some forms of visceral Neuralgia and .shown in what cases they can be successfully treated here. It is especially when the affec- tion is under the influence of the arthritic Diathesis, that these waters are likely to ren- der great services. Inflammatory Sciatica or Neuritis, as well, as rheumatic Sciatica, can be cured at Plom- bieres. Before however instituting the treat- 80 . THE WATERS ment, it is necessary to determine to which of these two classes, the Sciatica in question belongs, because the treatment to which the patient ought to be submitted, is very diffe- rent. The treatment which will produce good results if we have to do with a Sciatica of rheu- matic origin, will aggravate one, of an inflam- matory nature. There is a third kind of Scia- tica, that which is the result of some internal compression. It is easy to understand that the prognosis of these affections depends on the seat and cause of the compression. The treatment is also subordinated to the same considerations. Paralysis The forms of Paralysis differ according to the seat of the lesion. Whether in the brain, the spinal cord or the terminal nerves. TJie watery pf Plpmbieres are especially OF PLOMBIERES. 81 useful in the different forms of Paralysis de- pendent on alterations of the spinal cord or its envelopes. We have often seen, after a treat- ment by these waters, complete cures of Para- lysis and Paraplegia of rheumatic origin. These v^aters are particularly indicated where the nervous affection is accompanied by hyperesthesia. This symptom indicates that the excito motor action of the sensitive nerve is not entirely abolished and that there is a morbid tendency to exageration rather than to destruction of the function. Affections of the Skin These waters are useful also in certain affec- tions of the skin. The great dermatologist Biett recommanded them in the papulous forms, in Psoriasis diffusa and in certain forms of Eczema. More modern authors, amongst whom the 6 82 THE WATERS late D"" Bazin, the celebrated Physician of the Hopital Saint-Louis, writes that the uses of these waters are numerous. In the foremost rank, we must put the manifestations of the herpetic Diathesis. Hygienic Precautions It will be wise here to add a few words of advice to visitors, on questions of Hygiene. Plombieres is situated in a mountain district and here as elsewhere, in such circumstances, the changes of temperature. are rapid and the evenings and nights are cool. The traveller who leaves the hot climate of Paris, ought to bring with him warm clothing to use in the cool evenings of this mountain climate. The season opens on the i5^^ of May and closes at the end of September. The moment which patients should choose for their visit, is not indifferent. Rheumatic and gouty patients and these OF PLOMBIERES. 83 suffering from Neuralgia, should give the pre- ference to the earl/ season. There is a danger in the latter part of the season, of the action of the cold, following on the treatment by hot baths. The warm summerweather offers them certainly advantages for their treatment, which are not to be had later on in the year. For patients suffering from nervous affections of the stomach, or for those labouring under cuta» neousor uterine affections, the choice of any particular moment of the season, is without importance. CHAPTER V WALKS AND EXCURSIONS Walks The public Park extends in front of the great Hotels by the Route d'Aillevillers. The Emperor Napoleon III was the creator of this Park. It is a long garden situated on the bank of the river Eaugronne. The Railway station to-day, unfortunately separates it from the river. The construction of that station deprives it of a large space and also of one of its most picturesque sites. The Park is laid out, a FAnglaise. 86 THE WATERS Several avenues lead to a central lake. This lake, situated in an open space, has like the Park, been unfortunately diminished, owning to the construction of the station before mentioned. The administration is careful to keep the lake well stocked for those who like the sport of fishing. It is large enough to permit boats to circulate. The principal avenue of the Park leads to the (c Fontaine Stanislas « the road winds through a series of broken rocks, of wild ap- pearance, called in the country « Murjets «, which geologists denominate « Moi^aines ». These « Moraines » are not rare in the Vos- ges, and are frequently found in the environs of Plombieres. There are several sorts, some are due simply to the destruction ( fragmenta- tion ) of rocks, others really deserve the name of « Moraines » and are due to the melting of the glaciers, which formerly covered our moun- tains. The native peasants, less learned doubt- less than modern geologists, tell us that these OF PLOMBIERES. 87 rocks are the works of fairies. This is how they explain their origin. The fairies in order to avoid the trouble of climbing the mountains, when they wanted to pass, from one mountain to the other, deter- mined to construct bridges, which would con- nect them together. But as all of us know, the wicked fairies can only work at night, and at break of day all their power disappears. One night, when all were working, the cock crew^ day had dawned, their work was inter- rupted and in their hurried flight, they let fall the big stones they were carrying. Thus were pro- duced the « Miirjets maiidits » which are now called by the peasants « la Chiiee des Fees ». At one end of the Park, near the entrance of the wood, there is an excellent Establishment for Pistol and Carabine practice « Tir an Pistolet et a la Carabine ». This Establishment is the property of the Society of the « Societe des Francs-Tireurs des 88 THE WATERS Vosges )), who kindly offer the use of the Esta- blishment to visitors. Every year there are prizes distributed to visitors. On leaving the Park by the Route d'Aille- villers, one sees on the right « La Fontaine Caroline », erected in 1823 by M. Delessert, Prefect of Police under the Restauration, in commemoration of the cure of his daughter. Stanislas Fountain The road leading to this Fountain is one of the most popular. It is only 3 kilo- metres long. The road is a charming one, the views beautiful. We leave the Park by the avenue which passes in the middle of the « Chaos ou Murjets » and penetrating into the wood, arrive by a road on the flank of the mountain, which follows its contours. The stranger is protected from the hot rays of the sun, by the thick foliage of the ash and OF PLOMBIERES. 89 the fir and yet he can see, lying at his feet, the park and the mountain rising on the other side of the valley. Soon the traveller reaches the open space w^hich precedes the culminating point where the « Fontaine Stanislas » is situated, he then perceives the panorama in all its beauty. The « Fontaine Stanislas » offers a small stream ot water, rising from an immense rock, whose summit is curiously crowned by the roots of an ancient oak. The stream of waters is fresh and pure, but so little abundant, that it has inspired the fol- lowing lines graven on the sides of the rock. Heureuse du nom qui me reste, Bon roi, si je pouvais jamais recueillir Les pleurs dus pour jamais a votre souvenir, Je ne serais pas si modeste. A N O N Y M E . The rock bears several other inscriptions. 90 THE WATERS The most notorious is that of the Chevalier de Boufflers : Fontaine que le nom du plus aime des rois Doit rendre a jamais chere a toute la contree, Ne vous attendez plus a vous perdre ignoree Sous rherbe et la mousse des bois : Stanislas vous a consacree. Glorieuse d'uii nom si beau, Que le murmure de votre eau Parle de Stanislas a la race future. Simple dans sa grandeur, bon comme la nature, Son regne pastoral fit croire a I'age d'or. Votre onde est, a nos yeux, bien pure ; Son ame etait plus pure encore. The tragic end of tlie good King Stanislas is well known. Having risen early, as was his habit, on the 5 February 1766, he imprudently approached too near the hre place. His dres- sing gown caught fire. He rang the bell, no valet de chambre was at hand. He strove to extinguish the flames himself, but in so doing, fell into the fire. His hand falling in the red hot coals^ he fainted from pain. OF PLOMBIERES. 91 An Officer ot the Household perceived the odour of burning, but he considered that Eti- quette forbade him entering into the King's room. He called the valet de chambre, who finally arrived; but too late. They dragged their master from the fire. The wounds of the poor King were horrible, his sufferings terrible. However, though he was 88 years of age, he survived to the 2 3 of February. The grief of the Lorrains was extreme. During the last moments ot their good and well beloved mo- narch, all the avenues of Luneville were filled by crowds of his anxious subjects. Even to-day, more than a century after his tragic death, the memory of this good King is affectionately cherished in the country. Ferme Jacquot For those who do not wish to undertake long excursions, the « Ferme Jacquot » will 92 THE WATERS prove an agreeable walk, of moderate length It is protected from the heat of the sun, and at the end there is a pleasant resting place. The ccFerme Jacquot)) maybe called a retired little park, rich in vegetation and offering a beauti- ful view over the town and valley of Plom- bieres. The proprietor, M. Herise, kindly allows all visitors to enjoy themselves there, and in consequence it has become the favo- rite walk of idlers. In one of the avenues, is to be found a little spring, which bears the following inscription. Ne trouble point mon cours, si ton cceur est blesse. Ma source ne vient pas des rives du Lethe. L'amour, de tes douleurs, en se faisant un jeu, Rend mes eaux sans vertu pour eteindre ton feu. Fontaine du Renard The road leading to this spotis very agreeable. The views are pretty and its proximity to the town renders it a favorite walk. Distant only OFPLOMBIERES. 93 2 kilometres from Plombieres, it requires only about half an hour to reach it; less to return home, as then the road is down-hill. Two roads lead to the fountain. The longer is the easier one, but the shorter is the more pictu- resque. These two roads lead to a narrow and most picturesque alley, traversing the woods. On the road, one notices several springs rising from rocks, covered with ferns and other plants One of them bears on its side the follo- wing inscription : Toujours vive, abondante et pure, Un doux penchant regie mon cours ; Heureux I'ami de la nature. Qui voit ainsi couler ses jours. Near this fountain is a rustic hotel where the traveller may rest and refresh himself. Moulin-Joli Leaving the « Promenade des Dames )> and turning on the right, one falls on a charming 94 THE WATERS alley which ascends the valley, following the stream of Saint-Antoine. Soon one finds a small fountain dedicated to the recollection of j^mc Guizot, the first wife of the celebrated mi- nister in the reign of Louis-Philippe. M™* Guizot was a well known authoress whose literary reputation is still great. This little monument, destroyed in 1848 from poli- tical animosity, has since been rebuilt. Fur- ther on the road, one finds a mechanical saw- mill, which presents a picturesque appearance. Still further on, after half an hours'walk, the «Moulin-Joli « appears. A pleasant little wood wich sweet shade precedes it. The sole interest this building offers, is the fact of its having been a favorite resort of the Empress Jose- phine. She used often to breakfast there when she was at Plombieres. On returning home, one passes by the Fountain Pauline. It is diffi- cult to reach, owing to the artificial irrigation of the neighbouring meadows. The fountain OF PLOMBIERES. 95 springs from a rock, on which the following lines are inscribed : A Taimable simplicite, A la grace modeste, a la douce bonte, Qui, versant ses bienfaits, en cache I'orgine, On consacra mes eaux : je m'appelle Pauline. Ghapelle Saint- Joseph To reach the Ghapelle Saint-Joseph, one must take the « Route d'Epinal « On the right of the street one finds a steep, narow, stony and diffi- cult path, which leads to the statue of the Holy Virgin. The Virgin is represented extending her arms over the town, as in the act of blessing it. On the piedestal are graven the following words : Custodem me posuerunt. Between the statue of the Holy Virgin and the Chapel of Saint-Joseph is a terrace which 96 THE WATERS commands a magnificent view of the whole town. Every evening, numerous candles placed by Chapelle Saint-Josepb. postulants before the shrine of the Virgin burn, and their bright light seen from the town of Plombieres, produces a most picturesque effect. OF PLOMBIERES. 97 EXCURSIONS Les Feuillees There are two sites which bear this name. Both command the Val d'Ajol and the pretty little village of Laitre, with its silver stream flowing through a fertile country. The richly cultivated ground contrasts beautifully with the surrounding woods of dark foliage. Strangers must not hastily conclude that the name « Feuillees » necessarily indicates a reti- red and shady spot. This name has quite another origin. Years ago, the excursions around Plombieres took place in carts drawn by oxen. This mode of travelling was not, we can well imagine, either very comfortable or rapid. To diminish the dullness of the excursion, it was the fashion for the visitors, to join together and form parties. As these 7 98 THE WATERS parties took place in summer, it was the habit to cover the open carts with branches of trees and other foliage and thus to form a tent, called in french a toiture de feiiillage ou de Feiiillees. The name which originally belon- ged to the vehicle, was later on, applied to the spots to which they were often driven. The more celebrated of these Feuillees is the Feuillee Dorothee. The other one is called : V La Feuillee nouvelle ». The view^ obtained from these points can be compared with the most beautiful views of the Alps or the Pyrenees. The Feuillee Dorothee was so called after a Proprietor, a peasant woman, but also a poet, who dealt in musical instrument called : « Epi- nettes y>. She enjoyed formerly a great repu- tation as a poet at any rate in the country. Between 1828 and 1867, she received the visit of many noble persons. Amongst others, that of the Duchess d^Angouleme, to whom, by permission, she dedicated an ode. Later OF PLOMBIERES. ^01 on, the Duchess d'Orleans was the subject of her verse and finally the Emperor Napoleon received the same homage. Dorothee is gone, but the Feuille'e still bears her name. Epinettes are still to be bought there. Dorothee's old album is still preserved and visitors have only to ask to be allowed to see it. The perusal of her poetical works will procure half an hour's amusement. The new Proprietor of the Feuillees has made great improvements; amongst others a pathway leading from the Terrace, along the side of the mountain, towards Faymont. The view over the valley des Roches, is beautiful. The Feuillee Dorothee is one of the most popular excursion. There is a restaurant, where a good meal is to be had. La Feuillee nouvelle is a little further off. Situated on the picturesque road of the Val d'Ajol, it commands a view not less beautiful than that which we have described as lying before the Feuillee Dorothee. 102 THE WATERS Val d'Ajol On leaving « la Feuillee-Nouvelle » one takes a beautiful road, which leads by an easy descent to the village of Laitre, v^hich is situa- ted in the centre of the Val d'Ajol. Through the village passes the stream of the Gombaute, which in its passage, works the wheels of seve- ral manufactures. This village is celebrated as the birth-place of the family des Fleurot. The Fleurot have been celebrated for seven generations as bonesetters or « rebouteurs or renoueurs ». They were already celebrated in 1755. M. Morand, Docteur Regent de la Faculte de Medecine de Paris, wrote thus about them : « There are two families of that name, who throughout the whole of the Lor- raine, enjoy a reputation equal to that of the Nursins in Italy. The Nursins, for the opera- tion of the stone, the Fleurot, for the cure of OF PLOMBIERES. 103 luxations and fractures. Their success in the exercice of their art and their reputation dates back, for several generations. They are called « The Fleurot ». There is the old and the young Fleurot. They are both called « les hommes de la Broche. » The Broche is a little village of the Val d'Ajol. » The Duke Leopold of Lorraine offered them as a recognition of their charitable acts, titles of nobility. The family, after deliberation declined this offer. Our children, said they, will perhaps not be of our mind, elated by their rank, they will cease to render services to the poor, they will cease to cultivate our pater- nal acres. The Benediction of God will for- sake them. Dissentions will enter into the family, happiness will disappear. Vallee des Roches On leaving the Val d^Ajol, one enters into the « Vallee des Roches ». At the entrance of 104 * THE WATERS the Vallee des Roches is the « Cascade de Fay- mont. » A pretty little water-fall, five minutes distant from the main road. Cascade de Faymont. The Vallee des Roches is one of the most picturesque of the environs of Plombieres. OF PLOMBIERES. 105 The smiling landscape which precedes this spot, offers a great contrast to the savage beauty of the Valley, with its sinistre vegetation and its hanging rocks. A little further, is the « Cascade du Gehard «. Carriages can pass under the Cascade, on a stone bridge. A little path winds round the Cascade and allows visi- tors there, to see it in its several aspects. There is no danger in the promenade, for the « Admi- nistration des Forets » has prudently placed wooden railings everywhere, where otherwise there might, have been risk. Abbaye d'Herival The « Vallee des Roches » ends at Herival. He'rival is surrounded on all sides by moun- tains clothed w^ith fir trees. Here are the remains of the ancient Abbaye, inhabited for- merly by the Confessors of the Dames Chanoi- nesses de Remiremont. It was founded towards the middle of the 1 1^'' century by 106 THE WATERS Angibalde. The original laws and statutes of this religious house were so stringent, that no one could submit to them. The Brothers were bound to perpetual silence. Pope Honore II induced the monks who had deserted their Or- der, to accept the milder rule of the Order of Saint-Augustin. There still remains a beautiful Gross of Sculptured Stone and a Portico where one sees the Monogram d^Herival. The Sculpture is worthy of all attention. The manner in which the letters are enlaced one in the other, is really interesting. There are a few other remains of this ancient building. It as been replaced by a farm belon- ging to a member of the family Fleurot, of whom we have already spoken. Valley of Semouze A few miles distant from Plombieres, this savage but picturesque Valley, situated in a hollow surrounded by woods, terminates in OF PLOMBIERES. 107 the rich plain of Aillevillers. To reach it, starting from Plombieres, one must take the (( Route d'Epinal '^, to the ". Chemin du Blanc Murger », on which are situated several manu- factories. From that point, one follows the road which descends into the Valley of the Semouze, so named from the river which flows through it. This stream provides water-power for several manufactories situated along its course. The most important of these, is that of M. de Pruines. In this establishment and in one at Plombieres, he gives employment to the greater part of the working population of the district. The Manufactory of M. de Prui- nes is open to all visitors. The courteous reception accorded to strangers, induces many to make a call there. Following the course of the Semouze, one reaches a beautiful property called the « Chaii- deau ». Visitors are allowed to visit the gar- dens and the works. Following the stream, 108 THE WATERS one soon reaches Aiilevillers and thence can re- turn to Plombieres by the Valley of Saint-Loup. Following the Valley, one passes a la Pierre Carraude ». The c( Pierre Carraude » probably of Drui- dic origin, is a most interesting object. It consits of a vast fragment of stone more than 1 8 feet in height, which rests by a single point, on an inclined platform, facing the Valley. As one follows the stream of the Eaugronne, one reaches the « Champ des Rouges Vitus », « le Moulin Rouge Bac » « les Baraques Rouge- mont ». According to tradition, these places owe their name to the fact, that formerly stran- gers dressed in red, fixed their abode in these points. It is certainly true that in 1444 the Dauphin Louis, son of Charles VII of France, whilst making war in favour of the Emperor Frederic III, received into his army a large number of English mercenaries. It is believed, that later on, they settled in this part of the country and thus the names originated. OFPLOMBIERES. 109 Fougerolles and Luxeuil Few visitors leave Plombieres without ha- ving paid a visit to the pretty village of Fouge- rolles. Fougerolles is a straggling village of picturesque aspect, surrounded on all sides, by a forest of Cherrv-trees. These Cherry-trees are a source of revenue to the inhabitants. They yield a Kirsch whose reputation is not less celebrated than that of the Black Forest. Here are the ruins of an old Feudal Castle, well worthy of a visit. Luxeuil can be visited from Plombieres, ei- ther by a carriage or by train. The objects of interest at Luxeuil are its Esta- blishment of mineral waters and the ruins of an ancient Monastery, founded towards the end of the 6^^ century, by S^-Colomban. What remained of these buildings in the 14^'' century, was converted into a Seminary. There are several other buildings in the town, which date from the same century. no THE WATERS The house of the Cardinal de Jouffroy is es- pecially worthy of notice. Bains This pretty town is situated in a hollow, sur- rounded on all sides hy hills, covered with trees. Its origin is probably the same as that of Luxeuil and Plombieres and traces of Ro- man occupation have been found here also. The road leading to Plombieres, passes ac- cross the forest of Fays. Here are seen some interesting remains of an Edifice, the origin of which cannot be traced. The legend current in the country, relates that is was due to the Witches. The Witches who loved this country, determined to build a Palace. Already the walls rose to a certain height, when the birth of our Saviour put an end to the reign of these pernicious creatures and with it, to their Palace. It is related in the country, that often, bela- OF PLOMBI ERES. Ill ted foresters returning home at night, have seen these witches indulging in their infernal dances. Remiremont The road leading from Plombieres to Remi- remont, is about 12 kilometres long. Starting from the « Promenade des Dames ^> , it fol- lows the right bank of the Eaugronne. It passes between the forest of Humont and a wide extent of green grass, enclosed by a pine forest. Remiremont is a pretty little town, situated on the Moselle, in a hollow. Several small streams, passing between the mountains, centre here and throw themselves into the Moselle. Owing to its beauty, it has been surnamed the (( Coquette des Vosges )>. Remiremont is no doubt, a very ancient town. The story runs that Romaric, the favorite of Queen Brunehaut, tired of the frivolities of Court life, accompanied by his two daughters 112 THE WATERS and S'-Ame, retired to a Castle on Mont-Ha- bend , situated opposite the town ; it has since been surnamed the Saint-Mont. On the remains of an ancient Roman camp, he built a monastery, to which, persons of high nobi- lity of either sex were admitted. S*-Ame and S'«-Maiteflede were the first Di- rectors. To^vards the beginning of the lo''' century, this monastery w^as destroyed by the invasion of the Huns. The sacred house was entirely ruined and the nuns had to fly for refuge to Remiremont. It is from this epoch, that the celebrated Chapter of Remiremont dates. At first, it was a refuge for noble Ladies, be- longing to the families of the Lorraine and of Burgundy. Later on. Ladies of the highest families of France and Germany, considered it a great honour to be numbered amongst its inmates. Proof of an unbroken line of noble descent during five centuries, was required for admis- OF PLOMBIERES. 113 sion. Each century was supposed to contain three generations. During that period, no mesalliance could be tolerated. Consequently amongst these humble servants of God, were to be found none but Ba- ronesses, Countesses, Princesses, all bearing great names and many nearly related to sove- reign houses. These rules were so rigorously enforced, that difficulties were raised before admitting a Prin- cess of the House of France, because of the alliance of the Valois and the Bourbons with the Medicis. A brief of Pope Benoit XIII in 1 384, addressed to this Chapter, solemnly lays dowQ these rules and orders, that only Daugh- ters of Princes, Dukes, Counts or Barons or of ancient families of Knights, on the paternal and maternal side, could be admitted. The Chapter held almost sovereign rights over the town and neighbouring country. After 1 3 10, the Abbesses of Remiremont, took the title of Princesses of the Holy Empire. The 114 THE WATERS Chapter was often at variance with the Dukes of Lorraine, who saw wdth displeasure this part of their domain, withdrawn from their immediate control. The history of Remiremont is full of ac- counts of these struggles for power. One of the most remarkable incidents was that which happened in 1293, when Duke Ferry sought, on his sole authority, to build the « Chateau- fort de Plombieres ». After a struggle, the Duke had to yield to the « Dames Chanoi- nesses de Remiremont ». A remarkable instance of their energy, took place in i638. The recollection of it is still fresh in the country. In July 1 638, the great Turenne laid siege to the town of Remiremont, which was held for the Duke of Lorraine and the Emperor of Germany, by a small garrison. The great Turenne thought that he would easily reduce so feeble a place, and so despicable a garrison. His mistake was great, Catherine of Lorraine, OF PLOMBIERES. 115 the Abbess of Remiremont , organised the defense of the town. At the head of the Chapter, she mounted the ramparts, she encou- raged the soldiers and exhorted by her words and her example, the very women and chil- dren , to combat the enemy. Her courage communicated itself to all around her. Afte several unsuccessful attempts, Turenne was obliged to retire, with the loss of 800 men killed or wounded. The loss of the defenders only amounted to the death of two men. It is a notable event in history, to see so great a General as Turenne, obliged to retire before a garrison of Nuns. The last Abbess was a Princess of the House of Gonde. Part of this Abbatial Palace was destroyed during the great Revolution. The Mairie and the Municipal Library were established in what remained of it. They were destroyed by fire during the winter of 1870 to 1 87 1. They have since been rebuilt. The 116 THE WATERS Church of Remiremont, which also took fire at the same time, was fortunately preserved. It deserves a visit. Tourists should also go to the Calvaire, where they will find a beautiful and extended view. Route de Gerardmer We will now describe the different points of view which the Tourist will meet in going from Remiremont to the Schlucht. This is the most interesting and beautiful excursion of all those which can he made from Plom- bieres and in it, will be found all the most celebrated points of view of the Vosges. Le Saint-Mont — Le Pont des Fees After crossing the Moselle and following the Route of Gerardmer, one reaches the foot of the Saint-Mont, distant about three kilo- metres from Remiremont. It is a lofty moun- OF PLOMBIERES. 117 tain, covered with fir trees and studied here and there by granitic roks^ bare of all vegeta- tion. The .view from the top of the mountain, 678 metres high, is magnificent. Numerous streams flow on all sides, down to the valley of the Moselle, which runs along the foot of the mountain. The valley is shut in, by the Ballons d'Alsace, de Servance and the forest of Fossard. The Pont des Fees is a remarkable construc- tion. It is a viaduct 28 metres long, i3 wide and 7 high, which running across the valley connects the Saint-Mont to another mountain. Built by the Romans, it is constructed of stone without mortar. And is as perfect to-day as when first made. Le Saut de la Guve After leaving the Saint-Mont, we reach the village of Saint-Ame. On the left side of the 118 THE WATERS road, there is a foot-path, which leads in ten minutes to the « Saut de la Cave ». This little Cascade is formed by the Rive*r du Bel- liard, which precipitates itself into a deep cir- cular excavation, with sharply cut sides. The height of the Cascade is only 7 metres; But when the river is full, the waterfall is imposing. From Saint-Ame, the road follows the course of the Moselotte and soon reaches Vagney. Vagney is a large village situated halfway between Plombieres and Gerardmer. This is the spot generally chosen by tourists for breakfast and to rest their horses. Le Saut du Bouchot After passing through the village of Sapois, we take the new road of Gerardmer, which leads to the aSaut du Bouchot ». This Cascade 100 feet high, surrounded by a luxuriant vege- tation , is in reality composed of three Cas- cades, one situated over the other. Finally it OF PLOMBIERES. 121 throws itself into a single pool, whence it flows through the valley. To see this Cascade ir. all its beauty, one should go to the lower part of the valley, where without exposing oneself to any danger, one can enjoy a most magnificent spectacle. A quarter of an hour's drive further on, leads to Rochesson, celebrated for its cheeses^ better known in Paris as : Gerome cheeses. After this, one passes before an immense rock called « la roche des Dues ». From this point starts the route de la Bresse. After passing downhill for about three kilometres through a magnificent forest', one reaches Gerardmer. Gerardmer is a rich village recentlv built, situated at the foot of the Western Vosges. Towards the end of the i6*^ century, there were only about twenty families inhabiting Gerardmer. The armies of Louis XIII, after having ravaged the whole country, dispersed these poor people and drove them into the mountain. Towards the middle of the 17^^ i22 THE WATERS century, Gerardmer began again to be peo- pled. To-day the population amounts to about 6.000 in winter and at least twice as much during the summer months. The Abbe Jacquel says in his book on the Vosges, that Gerardmer ought to be called the Interlaken of the Vosges. Here are to be found Lakes, Cascades and steep Mountain Precipices. It is the central point of the pic- turesques sites of the Vosges. Here the tourist can put up, and make excursions into the coun- try, to visit the most beautiful spots, all of which are at easy distances. The Lake of Gerardmer, the largest in the Vosges, contains io6 hectares, and is loo feet deep. It is full offish. There are plenty of boats to be hired and one can make pleasant excursions when the weather is fine and the waters tranquil. It takes about an hour and a half to walk round the Lake. There is a picturesque foot path and a carriage road shaded by trees on either side. OF PLOMBIERES. 123 From Gerardmer to the valley des Granges is a pleasant walk. Pont de la Vologne. In this valley, distant three or four kilo- 124 THE WATERS metres from Gerardmer, is the Glacier of Keriioff. It is formed of rocks of granite lying one on the other. In the interstices of these rocks, even in the middle of summer, blocks of ice, are to be found. There is a marked diminution of tempe- rature in these spots and tourists should be careful, whilst visiting them, not to take cold. Road from Gerardmer to La Schlucht The road leading from Gerardmer, passes to the right of the valley of the Grange and pene- trates into that of Vologne. Soon one rea- ches an immense block of granite, situated a few paces from the road, on the left hand. It is called the « Pierre de Charlemagne );. It was so named in recollection of a halt made by the great Emperor, on returning home from hunting. A little further on, the road leads over a bridge, which spans the torrent of OF PLOMBIERES. 125 the Vologne. It is the « Pont de la Vologne», Saut des Cuves. This is one of the most picturesque points in the Vosges. Beneath it the river Vologne 126 THE WATERS flows between two walls of black stones and falling perpendicularly from rock to rock, forms a series of pools, hollow^ed out by the action of its waters. It is called in the coun- try the c( Saiit des Ciives ». The tourist in order thoroughly to enjoy the beautiful spec- tacle of the torrent, should leave his carriage and descend down to the banks of the stream. At first sight, it seems as though the descent would be dangerous, but, if one is not subject to vertigo, it is in reality neither difficult nor dangerous. The beauty of the scene, at the bottom of the valley, amply compensates for the fatigue of climbing again to the road. Following ihe Vologne, one soon reaches the « Lake of Longemer ». This lake is much smaller than that of Gerardmer. It only con- tains j5 hectares, but is beautifully situated. It is placed in the bottom of a Valley, closed in by two mountains covered with forests of fir trees. On a small promontory, which runs into OF PLOMBIERES. 127 the Lake, is the Chapel of Saint-Florent. This Chapel is celebrated for the miraculous vir- tues of a spinning wheel it contains. Tradi- tion credits the wheel when turned bac- wards and with the left hand, with the power of curing certain diseases. A little further, is the Lake of Retoiirnemer, which only contains fifty hectares. The road leading from Retournemer to the Schlucht, is very beautiful. Cut in the mountain side, it passes through a forest of immense fir trees and commands a view of the Lakes of Longemer and Retournemer. Five kilometres further on, there is a tunnel cut in the rock and called « La Roche du Diable ». Here too, the Tourist ought to leave his car- riage, climb to the top of this immense mass of stone and enjoy the magnificent panora- mic view which unfolds itself before him. 128 THE WATERS La Schlucht. — Le Honnek After following for some time the road which leads from Epinal to the Valley of Munster, one reaches the summit of the Schlucht. Here there is a new Hotel. It is the only inhabited house for 20 kilometres round. The Panorama commanded by the Schlucht is magnificent. Turning to the East, one sees the Alsace, the Rhine, the Duchy of Baden and the Black Forest. A little behind, on the other side, the Honnek. On one side the Valtin and on the other, the Ballon de Soultz. It is possible to return the same evening to Gerardmer; but the better plan is to sleep at la Schlucht and spend the next day in clim- bing the Honnek. It is necessary to take a guide. It is not a difficult ascension. It can only be done on foot and takes about an hour. About i366 OF PLOMBIERES. 129 metres in heigth, the Honnek is the loftiest mountain of the Vosges. The summit is rea- ched by a series of grassy lawns, called Chaumes. The view extends 20 leagues around. The Vologne rises here. Erckmann-Chatrian thus describe the moun- tain, (c The Honnek is more than 5. 000 feet high. Covered with snoAv till the middle of July, it descends abruptly to the « defile de Munster». Its sides are formed by immense black rocks, bristling here and there with pines, which when seen from below, look like tufts of fern. From the summit on one side you can see the valley of Alsace, the Rhine, the Alps of Bern, on the French side, the Lakes of Longemer et Retournemer and then rise mountains upon mountains and beyond them yet more mountains. The principal ones are: the Ballon de Soultz, the Rotabac and the Donon. » Tourists w^ho are willing to sacrifice one or two days at the Schlucht, can make se- veral pleasant mountain excursions, to the Lac 9 130 THE WATERS Vert, the Lac Blanc, the Lac des Gorbeaux or to that of Blanchemer; or they can ascend the Rotabac and visit Munster. Ballon d' Alsace. — Bussang. The excursion to the Ballon d' Alsace, is a shorter one than that which we have just described. Plombieres is only ten leagues dis- tant from this mountain. The road from Plombieres leads through Remiremont; from thence, one can either con- tinue the journey by carriage or take the Rail- road to Saint-Maurice, which is situated at the foot of the mountain. At a short distance from Saint-Maurice, is the little village of Bussang, noted for its fer- ruginous waters. The river Moselle rises here. The ascension of the Ballon d' Alsace is easy. The view at the summit of the moun- tain is not less beautiful than that one has from the Honnek, OF PLOMBIERES. 131 On one side, one sees the valleys of Saint- Amarin and of Massevaux, the Roche of Rin- gelstein, the plains of Alsace, the Rhine and the Black Forest. On the other side, the sum- mits of the Jura and rising above them the Alps. The height of this mountain is 1.200 metres. It takes about four or five hours to return from the Ballon d^Alsace to Plombieres and this excursion can be done either by road or by railway. END. CONTENTS CHAPTER I Pages Plombieres. — Situation. — Topography. — Anti- quities. — Description of the town, etc i CHAPTER II The Thermal Establishment. — Baths and Dou- ches. — Etuves 41 CHAPTER III Springs. — General considerations on the che- mical properties of the Waters of Plombieres. — Moder of application of the Waters 55 CHAPTER IV Medical indications of the Waters of Plom- bieres. — Diseases of Intestinal Tube. — Gas- tralgia. — Dyspepsia. — Diseases of the Intes- tines. — Chronic Diarrhoea. — Diseases of Women. — Gout. — Rheumatism. — Affections of the nervous system. — Paralysis. — Affec- tions of skin. — Hygienic precautions 69 134 CONTENTS. CHAPTER V Pages. Walks and Excursions. — The Park. — Stanislas Fountain. — Ferme Jacquot. — Fontaine du Renard. — Moulin Joli. — Ghapelle Saint- Joseph. — Les Feuillees.— Val d'Ajol.— Vallee des Roches. — Abbaye d'Herival. — Vallee of Semouze. — Fougerolles and Luxeuil. — Bains- Remiremont. — Le Saint-Mont.— Saut du Bou- chot. — Gerardmer. — Longemer. — Retour- nemer. — Saut des Cuves. — La Shlucht. — Le Honnek-Bussang. — Le Ballon d'Alsace . . 85 DRAWINGS Pages. The Casino iv View of Plombieres i5 Church of Plombieres 21 Rue Stanislas 25 Petite Promenade in 1879 ^^ Petite Promenade in 1882 29 Grands-Hotels 3i Chalet Tivoli 33 Chalet Gentilhomme 35 Interior of the Bain Romain 42 Interior of the Nouveaux Thermes 45 Park of Plombieres 65 Chapelle Saint-Joseph 96 Lakes of Longemer and of Retournemer. .... 99 Cascade de Faymont 104 Lake of Gerardmer 119 Pont de Vologne 1^3 Saut des Cuves 1^5 COLUMBIA UNIVERSI'lY LIBRARIES This book is due on the date indicated below, or at the expiration of a definite period after the date of borrowing, as provided by the rules of the Library or by special arrange- ment with the Librarian in charge. DATE BORROWED DATE DUE DATE BORROWED DATE DUE ::A8SS.5P72 Bottentuit n-.o . P l-o-l-^ B65