ABSORPTION AND ULCERATION. 405 



film. This film is cellular in its constitution, and so far it is 

 analogous to the epidermis or epithelium. It is a peculiarly 

 endowed cellular layer, which takes up progressively the 

 place of the subjacent textures these being prepared for 

 dissolution, either by the state of the system, the condition 

 of the part, or by some influence induced by the contiguity 

 of the new formation. Carrying out, therefore, the principles 

 at present regarded as regulating the reciprocal functions of 

 textures and vessels, the subjacent textures disappear in con- 

 sequence of a disturbance of their own forces, consequent 

 upon the appearance of new forces residing in the cellular 

 layer. The disturbance and gradual annihilation of the 

 natural forces residing in the subjacent textures, is indicated 

 by the gradual disappearance of these. That new forces, not 

 formerly existing in the part, are developed, appears from the 

 formation of the cells of the cellular layer. As these appear 

 in rapid succession, and disappear as rapidly, the subjacent 

 textures also disappear, either by previous solution and 

 subsequent absorption by the properties and powers of the 

 former \ or under the peculiar circumstances of inflam- 

 matory action by the more vigorous growth of the former, 

 monopolising the resources of the part, the latter dissolving 

 and disappearing by the usual channels of the returning 

 circulation, more rapidly, but according to ordinary laws. 



From this view of the process, it appears that, so far from 

 consisting in a diminution of the formative powers of the 

 part, such a progressive ulceration is actually an increase of 

 it. The apparent diminution is a consequence of the ex- 

 tremely limited duration of existence of the cells of the 

 absorbent layer, which die as rapidly as they are formed, dis- 

 appearing after dissolution, partly as a discharge from the 

 surface, but principally through the natural channels by which 

 the debris of parts, which have already performed their allotted 

 functions are taken up into the organism. 



