of Sugar in the Blood. 105 
action of the absorbents, it is so strongly opposed by the 
known structure of that system of vessels, that I believe few 
persons will admit it to be in any degree probable. 
Since we have become acquainted with the surprising che- 
mical effects of the lowest states of electricity, I have been 
inclined to hope that we might from that source derive some 
explanation of such phenomena. But though I have referred* 
secretion in general to the agency of the electric power with 
which the nerves appear to be indued, and am thereby recon- 
ciled to the secretion of acid urine, from blood that is known 
to be alkaline, which before that time seemed highly para- 
doxical, and although the transfer of the prussiate of potash, 
of sugar, or of other substances may equally be effected by 
the same power as acting cause, still the channel through 
which they are conveyed remains to be discovered by direct 
experiment. 
I have, indeed, conjectured that, by examining the blood in 
the abdominal vessels, or contents of the lacteais, it mig:ht be 
possible to detect them in transitu ; but I have not been in- 
clined to make such experiments on living animals, as would 
perhaps throw light upon the subject. 
I remain, Dear Sir, 
with great regard, 
yours very truly, 
W. H. WOLLASTON. 
January i, 1811. 
• Philosophical Magazine for June 1809. 
MDCCCXI. 
P 
