"Honestly- it is difficult to tell. His manner in labeling his wares is atrocious." As it would be when one was dealing in potentially illicit substances.

"As atrocious as his manners in general...." She uttered a bit more softly as the man expectorated. The careening saliva managed to miss the both of them, thank heaven.

There seemed to be little point in mentioning it, since Amelia still wasn't quite sure that this merchant could be trusted with something so important but sure. Why not? She would say it by name. "...Let me just start by prefixing this- what I'm about to say might seem ridiculous to you but I assure you that I am well aware that it has recently fallen into disuse. So please spare me your incredulous looks, your hearty guffaws and your reproachful remonstrations."

"Laudanum."