Drew is posting a historical note. Not to be attempted today.

Muriate of Mercury, just the thing NOT to have around the house. Mercury was used by the hat makers of 19th century. After enough exposure the term "Mad as a Hatter" was a real observation. It was also used in the original Dageurrotype process. Mercury fumes were used to develop the exposed silver plate. Again with the same result on the end user.

http://books.google.com/books?id=y08P3GE...DzmT5fN1aZhsiiI

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercury_poisoning

Pete