CHAPTER XXXIII 

 EFFECTS OF NARCOTICS UPON THE MIND 



572. Stages of action. A perfect engine acts smoothly, 

 and with an ease of motion which suggests a delight in its 

 work. The body is an engine at the service of the will. 

 A derangement of any part disturbs the action of the 

 brain according to the extent of the disorder. While little 

 or no alcohol can ever be found in the brain, yet the leu- 

 comaines and other poisons produced by the action of 

 alcohol reach the whole body, and produce a profound 

 effect upon the brain sooner than upon any other part. 

 Three stages of the effects of alcohol are well marked : 



First, there is a stage of stimulation ; second, the cells 

 act in an uncertain manner. This is the stage of disturbed 

 action; third, the cells act slowly or even cease to act. 

 This is the stage of paralysis. All three stages are often 

 seen in drunken men upon the streets. 



573. Stage of stimulation. A small amount of alcohol 

 causes the blood to circulate more rapidly. More food 

 reaches the brain cells, and so they show more activity. 

 It produces a happy state of mind in which men over- 

 estimate their abilities. Men drink mainly for this effect 

 of the alcohol. 



Some gifted men with weak wills exert themselves only when under 

 the influence of strong drink, and from this fact many reason that 

 alcohol increases the brain power. These gifted men hang about the 

 saloons, eating little and drinking much. In this condition their brains 

 receive no strength or energy to devote to any object. A drink fur- 



