A cure for lying and a bad memory [graphic]

"The interior of an apothecary's room: jars on shelves; a counter with drawers, pestle and mortar, flasks, &c. A bust of Galen stands on the lintel of the door (right). An alarmed undergraduate in cap and gown stands clasping his stomach. The doctor faces him triumphantly, with raised arms and holding a pill-box. His man, who wears an apron, walks off with a large box inscribed 'Anti-Fibbibus'. The (prose) inscription below the title relates that a 'College Wag' called on a 'travelling Empiric' and asked to be cured of a bad memory, and a habit of lying. He is cured by the 'gilded pill called - Pillula Memoria - Anti Fibbibus!!' The youth complains that he is poisoned with Asafœtida, the doctor answers that he speaks the truth and will never forget the medicine, so is cured."--British Museum online catalogue