46. Nerve-tissue must be understood as having everywhere the same general Property. In one animal and in another, in one part and in another, Neurility is the same in kind, but not everywhere manifesting the same degree, nor applied to the same Function. The _composition_ of nerve-tissue varies, but not more than the composition of all other organized substances; the _structure_ is variable, but only within a small range; the _texture_ also; while the _connections_ are very various. Hence, whatever the variations in composition or structure, the nerve-fibre has everywhere one fundamental property, which in connection with a muscle has the functional activity of exciting contraction; in connection with a gland of exciting secretion; and in connection with a centre of exciting reflexion.[97] 47. Had a clear idea of Function as dependent on connexion been present to their minds certain physiologists would hardly have raised the mirage of “Nerve-force,” a mysterious entity endowed with “specific energies,” and capable of producing vital and psychical phenomena by an occult process; nor would others have been led to the monstrous hypothesis of particular nerve-cells being endowed with thought, instinct, and volition. They would have sought an explanation of functions in the combined properties of the co-operant organs and tissues. They would not have endowed one nerve with Sensibility, and another nerve of identical structure with Motility;[98] one nerve with a motor property, and another with the opposite property of inhibition. They would have seen that all nerves have the same _property_, but different _uses_ when in different connexions.