THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



95 



View of the brain and nerves. 



Besides the nerves described above, there is a most extensive 

 system of nerves called ganglionic (from small ganglia or swellings 

 with which they are connected), that are principally distributed to 

 the lungs, bowels, and other viscera. Their functions are not pre- 

 cisely ascertained, but they do not confer either sensibility or the 

 power of voluntary motion. They are generally supposed to be 

 chiefly connected with secretion, and, from their connexions with 

 the spinal nerves, to form a bond of union between the rest of the 

 nervous system. 



By whatever parts effected, there can be no doubt that a union 

 or sympathy of the different organs does exist. The effects, in 

 paralysing the heart's action, of a blow on the region of the stomach, 

 of extensive burns, &c., have already been stated. If the brain of 

 a rabbit be merely removed, the heart may beat for an hour or more 

 afterwards, but suddenly crushing the brain instantly stops its 



