Grn 
XXII. seri Observations on the Albino. By Joun Davy, M.D., F.R.S. Lond. 
and Edin., &c. 
(Read 18th February 1861.) 
Amongst the natives of Ceylon, the occurrence of the Albino, the offspring of 
dark-skinned parents, is not very uncommon. In looking over my note-books, 
kept whilst I was in that island, between the years 1816 and 1820, I find mention 
made of five several examples. Now that the subject of species and varieties is 
attracting so much attention, perhaps the particulars I then collected of these 
abnormal instances of the human race may not be ee without interest, 
even if given a little in detail. 
In a work ‘“ On the Interior of Ceylon,” published in 1821, in describing the 
native races, I have stated that ‘“ The colour of their skin varies from light-brown 
to black ;” that “the colour too of their hair varies, but not so much as that of 
the skin ;” that ‘black hair and eyes are most common; that hazel eyes are less 
uncommon than brown hair; that grey eyes and red hair are still more uncom- 
mon; and that light-blue or the red eye of the Albino is the most uncommon 
of all.” 
The Albinos whom [I had an opportunity of examining were all children of 
natives of ordinary colour. As already mentioned, they were five in number, and 
besides these, I heard of no others then alive, with the exception of one, whom I 
did not see. 
Two of these Albinos were brother and sister. The latter was twenty-three 
years old, of average height, well made, and in the enjoyment of uninterrupted 
good health. Her skin was very white and soft, especially where it had not been 
exposed to the sun. Her eyes were of a very light colour, not very weak ; she 
could bear moderate light well, but disliked strong light. The pupil showed the 
absence of the pigmentum nigrum ; it was of a light flesh colour. The iris was 
nearly of the same colour, but lighter; its converging fibres were of a light grey 
hue, and very distinct, having interstices between them of a flesh colour. Her 
hair was nearly white, or rather of a light-cream colour, shining and fine, long, 
with a tendency to curl. Her eyebrows and eyelashes were of the same hue, 
but rather lighter. Her brother, who was three years older, had the same colour 
of skin, hair and eyes; and was well made, and in good health. He had a thin 
beard. His voice was feeble and somewhat effeminate. The disposition of both 
seemed to be mild and cheerful; the expression of their countenance not disagree- 
able. In conversation they expressed themselves readily, and seemed, if not 
acute, not deficient in intelligence. Neither of them was married. When 
VOL. XXII. PART III. 6P 
