Since 5-alkyl-5-(~-bromoethyl)-barbituric acids' can be prepared in good yields from the lactone esters, since the methylxanthate had already been prepared2 from one of the bromo compounds, and since it is known that an aliphatic mercaptan can be prepared in good yield from a anth hate,^ the first experiments were conducted with potassium methylxanthate. On account of relatively poorer yields as well as lesser stability of both the methylxanthate ...
