354 THE LAWS OF ORGANIC 



tions when reflecting on the probabilities of for- 

 tune, and, when not particularly engaged on this 

 subject, his respiratory functions will still show 

 that they are governed occasionally by the im- 

 pressions of the same cause. 



CCCCXXIII. Digestion, secretion, circula- 

 tion, in fine, every animal and organic function, 

 are deranged by the deteriorated qualities of 

 the blood : Whenever this wants its usual sti- 

 mulus, the constitution will be predisposed to fever ; 

 and if the solids of the body have been for some time 

 supplied with vitiated fluids, those will, on the slight- 

 est occasion, exhibit symptoms of mortification. 



CCCCXXIV. The above consequences are il- 

 lustrations of an extreme condition of the body ; 

 but if we examine the results of milder causes, 

 we shall observe effects in harmony with the 

 same. If the passion of grief be felt for a few 

 weeks or months, the eye soon loses its bright- 

 ness, and the countenance its natural expression 

 and colour ; digestion is tardy and fastidious ; 

 secretion is generally disordered ; the circulation 

 is quick and feeble, its distribution is rather in- 

 ternal than external, and the temperature of the 

 body is diminished : but as soon as the mourn- 

 ful object ceases to control the operations of the 

 mind, so soon does this restore to the respiration 

 its normal action, and every part of the system 

 is invigorated with new life. 



CCCCXXV. Depressing passions being at 



