44 THE INTEGUMENT, OR SKIN. 



interior is softer, and probably conveys the fluids by which 

 it is nourished. The hair is more glossy in health than at 

 other times. 



8. The nail serves as a protection to the end of the 

 finger, and also enables us to grasp more firmly, and to 

 pick up small objects. The hair, too, is a protection to 

 the parts it covers. On the head, it shields the brain from 

 extremes of heat and cold, and moderates the force of blows 

 upon the scalp. On the body, it is useful in affording a 

 more extensive surface for carrying off the perspiration. 



9. Complexion. In the deeper cells of the cuticle 

 lies a pigment, or coloring matter, consisting of minute 

 colored grains. On this pigment complexion depends; and, 

 according as it is present in less or greater amount, occa- 

 sions the difference of hue, that exists between the light 

 and dark races of men, and between the blonde and bru- 

 nette of the white races. Freckles are due to an irregular 

 increase of coloring matter. 



10. The sun has a powerful influence over the develop- 

 ment of this pigment, as is shown by the swarthy hue of 

 those of the white race who have colonized in tropical 

 climates. It is also well illustrated by the fact, thai 

 among the Jews who have settled in northern Europe, 

 there are many who are fair complex ioned, while those 

 residing in India, are as dark as the Hindoos ground them, 



11. An Albino is a person who may be said to have nc 

 complexion: that is, there is an entire absence of coloring 

 matter from the skin, hair, and iris of the eye. This con- 

 dition more frequently occurs among the dark races, and 

 in hot climates, although it has been observed in almosl 

 every race and clime. 



12. Sebaceous Glands. There are in the skin certain 



8. Office of the nail ? Of the hair? Give the illustrations. 



9. On what doe? the complexion depend ">. Light and dark races ">. Freckles ! 



10. Influence of the sun ? How illustrated? Jews? 



11. What is an Albino? Where are Albino* found ? 



l!4. What are sebaceous glands ? How do they act? Sebaceous glands of th< 

 fkce ? How do they act ? 



