222 DETAILED SYNTHESIS. 



spinal column, and adding to their own extent of mo- 

 bility. 



357. But THE MOST WONDERFUL THING in the chest 

 framework is its adaptation to the peculiar motions de- 

 manded of it ; for to the perfection of structure for move- 

 ment in the spinal column it adds its own by means of 

 the form of its ribs, their joints and cartilages. 



358. THE CAPACITY OF THE CHEST is INCREASED OR 

 DIMINISHED by simply raising or depressing the ribs, 

 and in either case the elasticity of their cartilages will 

 at once restore them. 



359. THE INTERVERTEBRAL SUBSTANCES can also 

 be made to lend aid in increasing and diminishing the 

 capacity of the chest, for when they are put upon the 

 stretch by raising the spinal column, or compressed by 

 curving it, the ribs have so much the greater extent of 

 motion. . 



360. THE EXQUISITE ADAPTATION OP THE FRAME- 

 WORK OF THE CHEST is worthy the contemplation of 

 every studious mind, for it is truly wonderful that so 

 much flexibility of motion should be combined with such 

 stability; that such complexity of results should be 

 gained by such simplicity of construction. 



361. THE CARTILAGES OF THE CHEST, like those of 

 other parts, CAN ONLY BE KEPT IN GOOD CONDITION by 

 alternate activity and repose ; and continued pressure or 

 disuse will despoil them of all their beautiful properties, 

 uses, and results. 



362. TIGHT CLOTHING impedes the action of some, 

 and subjects others to constant pressure, the result of 

 which is diminished capacity for breathing, with all its 

 dire results to the complexion, the expression, the activ- 

 ity of mind, etc., and incapacity for graceful movements, 

 that are always dependent as a sine qua non upon the 

 elasticity of cartilage. 



857. What in the chest ? 858. How ? 859. What aid from ? 860. What 

 said ? 861. How ? 862. What said ? 



