28 GBOEGE JOHN EOMANES 1875- 



If the entire margin be cut out in a continuous 

 piece save a small portion to unite it with the bell, 

 and if the distal end be now irritated, a main of 

 contraction runs along the entire severed part till it 

 arrives at the small united part, when the whole bell 

 contracts. I should like to try whether under such 

 circumstances the margin would be thrown into a 

 state of electrotonus, but only having one cell I am 

 not able to make out this point satisfactorily. 



The severed margin continues its rhythmical con- 

 tractions for two or three days. I am now trying 

 the efiect of different chemical stimuh, and if you can 

 suggest any further line of experimentation, of course 

 I shall be very pleased. Only, if you can think of 

 anything which might be tried and which is not 

 mentioned in this letter, please write soon, as the 

 Sarsia will not last much longer, and they are the 

 best adapted for my purposes. 



I remain, very sincerely yours, 



Geo. J. KoMANES. 



P.S. — I should have said that neither gold nor 

 silver brings out any nervous tissue. 



Medusa muscle is not doubly refracting, but then 

 none that I have here seen is striated, and unstriated 

 muscle is not doubly refracting anywhere, is it ? 



Dunskaith : June 24. 



Many thanks for your long and suggestive letter. 

 The poisons also are most acceptable. I have 

 waited before writing to try effect of the latter, but 



