Conversations on the human frame, and the five senses

Preface

Some of the following Conversations have previ¬ ously appeared in one of the periodicals of the day. Since that time they have undergone both addition and revision, and the series has been completed.

The subject of the volume is one not generally considered suitable for the young ; but the idea of sketching this outline of Anatomy was suggested to the writer’s mind, by the questions of some chil¬ dren, who were anxious to obtain information upon it, and no work could be found sufficiently simple to put into their hands.

IV

PREFACE.

In commencing a course of lessons on Natural History, the question presents itself, What is the right plan to be pursued ? Is not the proper starting point the wonderful construction of our own frame, together with the curious instruments by which the mental powers are called into exercise ; and should not this study always precede that of the habits and manners of other animals ?

The first authorities have been consulted, and no labour spared, in order to make this little work as perfect as possible in all its details ; but on a subject Avhich requires the scientific knowledge of the other sex, the writer would not have presumed to consider her statements correct, had she not been assisted by a valued medical friend, to whom she submitted each paper which related to anatomical subjects.

To him the Author gratefully acknowledges her obligations, both for directing her to the most suit¬ able works, from which to draw information, and

PREFACE.

V for the kindness with which, amidst numerous pro¬ fessional engagements, he sacrificed his time to re¬ vise her imperfect attempts.

ON THE MOUTH AND TASTE .