228 SIR CHARLES BELL ON THE THIRD PAIR OF NERVES. 



At the same time, it will not be overlooked, that the texture of the nerve at 

 the union of the fasciculated roots very much resembles the texture of the spinal 

 ganglion (Fig. 2, D). The difference may be reasonably attributed to the distinc- 

 tion in office, i. e. that it has no reference to the sensibility of the surface, but 

 only to the condition of the muscle. 



The very peculiar and unique position of the roots of this third nerve, whilst 

 it places the function of volition directly in communication with the sensorium, 

 and unembarrassed by communication with other nerves, has also this superior 

 advantage, that it is in direct relation to the sensitive column. This connection, 

 as I have just said, has no reference to common sensation, for the nerve is strictly 

 limited to the muscles, but only to that property of estimating the condition of 

 muscular activity. 



We pass on to the consideration of the Fourth Nerve. To comprehend its 

 relations, we must take a wide range, and a different course. 



