182 LIFE AND DEATH. 



3. THE CONSTITUTION OF HISTONES AND 

 ALBUMINS. 



Constitution of Histones. But we are only half-way 

 through our task. We are acquainted in its origin 

 with one of the genealogical branches of the proteid, 

 the nucleinic branch. We must also learn something 

 of the other branch, the albumin or histone branch. 

 But on this side the problem assumes a character of 

 difficulty and complexity which is admirably adapted 

 to discourage the most untiring patience. 



The analysis of albumin for a long time baulked 

 the chemist. " Here," said Danilewsky, "we come to 

 a closed door which resists all our efforts." We know 

 how vastly interesting what is taking place on the 

 other side must be, but we cannot get there. We get 

 a mere glimpse through the cracks or chinks which 

 we have been able to make. 



This analysis of albuminous matter at first requires 

 great precautions. The chemist finds himself in the 

 presence of architecture of a very subtle kind. The 

 molecule of albumin is a complex edifice which has 

 used up several thousand atoms. To perceive the 

 plan and structure, it must be dismantled and 

 separated into parts which are neither too large nor 

 too small. Such careful demolition is difficult. 

 Processes too rough or too violent will reduce the 

 whole to the tiniest of fragments. It is a statue 

 which may be reduced to dust, instead of being 

 separated into recognizable fragments, easily fitted in 

 place along their fractured faces. 



Analysis of Albumin by Schiitzenberger. Schutzen- 

 berger, a chemist of great merit, attempted (about 



