152 APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY 



drop, but subsides gently and without perceptible 

 dicrotism. 



' The sphygmogram corresponding to this description 

 will have a nearly perpendicular rise, a moderate eleva- 

 tion, a rounded summit, and a gradual, almost unbroken 

 fall.' 



The great differences in the frequency, volume, force, 

 and tension, and the character of the wave, in the 

 pulse of different individuals are matters of common 

 knowledge, and it is of interest to ask whether differences 

 of pulse are indicative of differences in physical or mental 

 constitution. It is instructive, on this point, to learn the 

 opinion of such an experienced observer as Broadbent. 

 ' Speaking generally,' he says,* ' I have found physical 

 strength, energy, and endurance impartially associated 

 with small, low-tension pulse, and with large arteries 

 and high tension, and the reverse. I can say the same of 

 intellect, perseverance, courage, and force of character 

 generally ; they appear to be absolutely independent of 

 circulatory conditions. It is, indeed, clear that the 

 circulation is not the determining influence in the pro- 

 duction of the differences which are found to exist in 

 respect of bodily or mental energy. The circulation is 

 the servant, and not the master ; and, physiologically, it 

 is tissue activity which conditions the blood-supply, and 

 not the blood-supply which conditions the tissue change. 

 In disease, again, the modifications of the circulation 

 which are observed are more frequently effects than 

 causes, and the pulse is an index not so much of a 

 more or less rapid movement of the blood, to be taken 

 * ' The Pulse,' p. 48. 



