Procure nice, high vine blackberries, that are perfectly ripe--the low
vine blackberries will not answer for syrup, as they do not possess the
medicinal properties of the high vine blackberries. Set them on a
moderate fire, and let them simmer till they break to pieces, then
strain them through a flannel cloth--to each pint of juice put a pound
of white sugar, half an ounce of cinnamon, powdered fine, a quarter of
an ounce of finely powdered mace, and a couple of tea-spoonsful of
powdered cloves. Boil the whole together fifteen minutes--strain it, and
when cool, add to each pint of syrup a wine glass of French brandy.
Bottle, cork, and seal it--keep it in a cool place. This, mixed with
cold water, in the proportion of a wine glass of syrup to two-thirds of
a tumbler of water, is an excellent remedy for the dysentery, and
similar complaints. It is also a very pleasant summer beverage.