PROTOPLASMIC NERVE THEORY. 119 



pheral termination of all nerves in loops. By means 

 of such anatomical elements we can see how the most 

 complex functions of the nervous system as a whole, 

 viz., afferent, efferent, commissural, and possibly inhibi- 

 tory, can be performed. And also we have the possi- 

 bility of a current force acting by induction from a 

 closed circuit shown for the first time if the loop form 

 is proved true, and sufficient insulation be rendered 

 probable. 



By the foregoing, we see how the nerves may consist 

 of merely dead formed material, if considered merely 

 as constituting an apparatus for conducting a stimulus 

 from one living part to another, and it is in this sense 

 that the nerves are generally spoken of when no other 

 qualifying word is used. But like other parts, even 

 the conducting cords require the presence of their 

 special protoplasm masses or bioplasts for their forma- 

 tion and repair. And besides, it is in these that the 

 nerve current (whatever be its nature) originates and 

 not in the fibrous matter itself. As proofs of this, Dr. 

 Beale adduces the following facts. 



" That these masses of germinal matter, which I have shown 



to be numerous in all ultimate nerve fibres of all nervous organs, 



. besides taking part in the formation of the fibres, are concerned 



in nervous action, appears to be probable from the following 



facts : 



" 1. They are very numerous in the peripheral ramifications of 

 all nerves. 



" 2. All special peripheral nerve organs, as the retina, the ex- 

 pansion of the olfactory and auditory nerves, the papilla of 

 touch and taste, as well as the peripheral nervous expansions 

 beneath sensitive mucous membrane, the skin, &c., are re- 



