Question 783

X is a mass found trapped in the gastrointestinal system (usually the stomach, though it can occur in other locations.There are several varieties of X, some of which have inorganic constituents and others organic.

X were sought because they were believed to have the power of a universal antidote against any poison. It was believed that a drinking glass which contained a X would neutralize any poison poured into it. The word "X" comes from the Persian word which literally means "protection from poison."

In 1575, the surgeon Ambroise Pare described an experiment to test the properties of the X. At the time, X was deemed to be able to cure the effects of any poison, but Paré believed this was impossible. It happened that a cook at Paré's court was caught stealing fine silver cutlery. In his shame, the cook agreed to be poisoned. He then used X to no great avail as he died in agony seven hours later. Paré had proved that X could not cure all poisons as was commonly believed at the time.

Answer: The Bezoar stone