Ultimate elements of which the body is composed— Proximate principles—Fluids and solids—Primary tissues— Combinations—Results—Organs, systems, apparatus— Form of the body—Division into head, trunk, and extremities—Structure and function of each—Regions— Seats of the more important internal organs 148 CHAPTER VI. Of the blood—Physical characters of the blood: colour, fluidity, specific gravity, temperature; quantity—Process of coagulation—Constituents of the blood; proportions —Constituents of the body contained in the blood—Vital properties of the blood—Practical applications 334 CHAPTER VII. Of the circulation—Vessels connected with the heart; chambers of the heart—Position of the heart—Pulmonic circle; systemic circle—Structure of the heart, artery, and vein—Consequences of the discovery of the circulation to the discoverer—Action of the heart; sounds occasioned by its different movements—Contraction; dilatation—Disposition and action of the valves—Powers that move the blood—Force of the heart—Action of the arterial tubes; the pulse; action of the capillaries; action of the veins—Self-moving power of the blood—Vital endowment of the capillaries; functions—Practical applications 357 FOOTNOTES. 408 INTRODUCTION. The object of the present work is to give a brief and plain account of the structure and functions of the body, chiefly with reference to health and disease. This is intended to be introductory to an account of the constitution of the mind, chiefly with reference to the development and direction of its powers. There is a natural connexion between these subjects, and an advantage in studying them in their natural order. Structure must be known before function can be understood: hence the science of physiology is based on that of anatomy. The mind is dependent on the body: hence an acquaintance with the physiology of the body should precede the study of the physiology of the mind. The constitution of the mind must be understood before its powers and affections can be properly developed and directed: hence a knowledge of the physiology of the mind is essential to a sound view of education and morals.