120 THE LAWS OF ORGANIC 



standard, and when the circulation is vigorous, 

 if these symptoms have not been preceded by 

 profuse perspiration or great fatigue. 



CXXVI. The augmented temperature and cir- 

 culation are proofs that the thoracic organs are 

 unusually or morbidly active ; and the great 

 quantity of blood which is distributed upon the 

 surface of the body is sustained there by its 

 highly stimulating properties and the force with 

 which it is propelled. When an individual, with 

 a constitution thus circumstanced, submits to the 

 application of cold, it produces a good effect, as 

 it diminishes the heat of the system and the 

 strength of arterial action, without possessing 

 sufficient influence to oppress the energies of the 

 vital powers. But when the body has been much 

 fatigued, or if it has perspired freely, the appli- 

 cation of the same means is injurious. After 

 fatigue and perspiration the blood is transmitted 

 with less vigour and less stimulating properties 

 to the surface, on account of the diminished ac- 

 tion of the lungs and heart ; and, therefore, if 

 cold be recommended in this state of the system, 

 it will disappoint the expectations of the physi- 

 cian, because it will determine the blood inter- 

 nally, and control still more the weakened function 

 of the lungs and heart, so that the oxygenation and 

 the propulsion of the Hood will be much impeded. 



