SONNET. 77 



The circulation through a Jimb is affected by position ; the re- 

 moval or increase of atmospheric pressure is known to affect the cir- 

 culation of the skin j the action of the air and chest, during respira- 

 tion, also modify the circulation. It is a well-established fact that 

 a whale can suspend respiration for twenty minutes, and sink to the 

 depth of an English mile in the ocean. 



The effect of the interrupted respiration and increased external 

 pressure, must necessarily be an alteration in the circulation, which, 

 unless met by a suitable provision, must prove inconvenient, if not 

 fatal, to the animal. That such a provision existed, Mr. Houston 

 was prepared to prove ; it existed in the enormous size and com- 

 plexity of the venous system, particularly in the right cavities of 

 the heart, — the vense cava, the hepatic veins, and those of the ab- 

 dominal and spinal canal. These facts were illustrated by some ele- 

 gant preparations of the injected venous system of the seal and por- 

 poise. The subject was farther pursued, and the circulation of some 

 animals possessing the power of suspending respiration for a less 

 considerable time, was examined ; the result was highly satisfactory 

 — and it was proved, by demonstration, from several specimens, that 

 the enlargement of the heart and venous system was proportionate 

 to the power of suspending respiration. Several new facts were ad- 

 duced, both in comparative anatomy and pathology, which would 

 appear highly confirmatory of Mr. H.'s physiological views as stated 

 in the communication. 



SONNET. 



Guide me, O God, as with a father's hand, 



Through this world's darksome wilderness : O stay 



My footsteps, trembling on Temptation's sand, 



Uphold them o'er the rough and narrow way 



Which leadeth unto life ; that so I may. 



Strong in thy might, all sinful wiles withstand. 



My inmost thoughts conform to thy command, 



Nor from thy will in act or purpose stray. 



All-present One ! who dwellest in the light 



None may approach unto, yet deign'st to hear 



The sigh scarce-breathed, the heart's unlettered prayer, — 



Shield me from every dark desponding fear — 



My best affections to thyself unite — 



And let thy favour be my chiefest care. E. S. 



