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Osseous System-Essay IX.

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Our readers must not, however, suppose | are even actually in contact.-Besides this, that we intend to advocate the doctrine of the tables or laminæ themselves differ as Gall and Spurzheim, in which it is main- much in thickness;-to which may be tained that the dispositions or capacities added, that the deep furrows which the of individuals, intimately connected, as convolutions of the brain occasion on the they may be, with organic conformation, inner surface of the internal table, are not are, in their peculiarities and extent, de- to be identified externally on the surface noted by external signs upon the skull, of the skull, by corresponding elevations. and that these signs are certain enlarge- To these and many other circumstances, ments or elevations, from a consideration the advocates of the craniological system of which, the bent of mind, or intellectual seem not to have paid any serious attenpowers of an individual, may be surely tion. Ingenuity and novelty are sure to predicted. Such is not our meaning. It attract,-but time and slow experience are is simply this, that as in natural mental the tests of truth. endowments and peculiarities, as well as in education, the individuals of society differ more or less, but still differ; so also, is there a difference in the skull, as it respects its general contour. No two skulls are exactly alike,-and connected as the general form may be with disposition, or the results of education, we must not be understood as asserting that the brain consists of an assemblage of organs or parts, each of which is connected with some one power or passion, which predominates more or less, according to the increased or imperfect development of its peculiar

organ.

This, however, is, if we clearly understand it, the doctrine of Gall and Spurzheim; they have divided the skull into numerous distinct portions, as covering these various organs of the brain, to each of which some mental peculiarity or power, or some passion, is assigned, and from which it derives its distinguishing appellation. Thus one portion of the skull is said to be the organ, or rather the situation of the organ, of pride; another, of resolution, or locality, or murder, according to the experience and discrimination of the craniologist.

It must not, however, be supposed that we object to the system of these ingenious philosophers without a reason;-for, setting aside the air of impossibility which it carries on its face, there is one fact which militates so strongly against it, as to form what appears to us an almost insuperable objection;-namely, the variableness in the distance which the two tables of the skull are separated by the intervening cancellated structure, so as to occasion perpetual confusion, and baffle the endeavours of the inquirer, who would build his system on the most repeated examination of the skull externally. So great, indeed, and indefinite is the variation in this respect, that while in one instance they may be (as we ourselves have seen,) separated by more than half an inch,-iu another, they

Between the general contour of the skull, and the expression of the features and form of the face, there is however an harmonious concordance,-a oneness, which is to be felt rather than described. As it regards the differences in the general contour of the osseous structure of the face, these, though not so observable as in the skull, nevertheless occur, so that the whole presents an unity and harmony of expression.

Independently of the variations in the form and contour of the skull, connected with intellect, or resulting from education, and which may be termed individual, there are also national distinctions. Among different nations, differences in the peculiar cast of countenance, and form of the skull and face, may almost always be observed; and if the several kingdoms of Europe do not present these dissimilarities in SO striking a light, it is probably because they have all in a great measure originated from the same source, or become gradually intermingled and blended together. And yet, although perhaps, with respect to the shape of the skull itself, differences of a character truly national cannot here be traced, it must be however allowed, that in the cast of expression, and contour of the face, to a certain extent, these may generally be remarked.

But let us survey the broad divisions of the globe;-let us glance at the Asiatic, or African, the native of Australasia, or of the islands of the Southern Sea, and the justness of our observation is at once established. Compare any one of these with the European, compare them among themselves, and we find not only the cast and expression of the living countenance differing in a strong and peculiar manner, but the bones also of the skull and face presenting varieties in general shape and figure equally striking and remarkable. The height or breadth of the skull, the form of the forehead, the position of the orbits, the magnitude of the cheek-bones and lower jaw, are the principal points in

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Osseous System--Essay IX.

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derable length, yet, from its comparativé lightness, it cannot in general be more than sufficient to counterbalance the hinder part of the cranium. In the bird, the head is comparatively small; the number of vers tebræ of which the neck is composed, together with the method of their construction and attachments, allowing to it the utmost facility of motion.

which this difference exists. To convey, however, an accurate idea of these differences, without presenting either specimens or drawings to our readers, is impossible; we can, therefore, only recommend those who may feel interested in the subject, to consult the plates of Cowper, or visit the museum of anatomy, and there place in contrast the skulls of the English,-Russian,Turk,-Negro,—Hindoo,—Ancient In the human race, and throughout the

Egyptian,-Greek,- Caribbee,—and native of Australasia; in which the national distinctions are obvious and striking.

whole chain of the brute creation, the posi. tion as well as the form and contour of the head accords in unison with the structure, The position of the skull, and the relative figure, and design of the whole body. In situation of the articulating processes by this respect no animal could suffer an alte‐ which it is affixed to the spine, constitute a ration, without an incongruity never observmark of difference between man and the able in nature; hence, as one part of the inferior animals, which we must not omit frame reflects the rest, from an inspection to notice. In the human species, the skull of the skull, or a part of it, the general is exactly equipoised upon the spine, the figure of the body, and consequently the centre of its basis being the point of union; habits and leading instincts of the animal, thus in the erect position the head is ba- may be readily ascertained. Thus, through lanced on the neck with the slightest effort the various classes and orders of animals, of the muscles; but in the race of quadru. there are general rules which are never peds, although perhaps the ape tribe may broken, concordances from which there is have some claims to be considered as an no deviation. exception, the articulating processes, instead of being placed, as in man, in the centre of the base, are situated completely at the back of the cranium, so that the head depends, requiring for its support, constant and considerable muscular exertion. The muscles therefore of the neck are large and strong, (and this the more especially in ferocious animals, as the wolf and tiger,) so as to enable them to bear away their prey with facility.

The muscles of the neck in man, though marked and distinct, are small, and adapted merely for moving the head, and turning it in various directions;-they are not powerful-because great strength would at once be useless, and incompatible with grace or symmetry. The contour of this part of the body, and its manner of supporting the head, add much to the beauty of the human figure, a circumstance to which the ancients paid particular attention;—hence, in the air of grandeur, which so much distinguished the busts of their statues, as well as in the peculiarly graceful manner in which the head surmounts the neck, varying in minuter details in the demigod, the philosopher, and the gladiator, is their excellence unrivalled.

In the position of the head, and the situation of the articulating processes by which it is conjoined to the neck, the feathered tribes approach more nearly than the brute mammalia to man. In several species the skull is almost perfectly equipoised; for although the beak may project to a consi

We have now completed our sketch of the structure and mechanism of the Osseous System. It is merely an outline; for we have forborne to enter into a separate and minute detail of all the parts composing it, or to investigate particulars which can only be studied in the school of anatomy. Our aim has been, to give a general idea of the principles upon which this beautiful fabrie is constructed, to point out its fitness for its intended uses, and to shew the concordance which prevails among its several portions. t

It would indeed have been easy to extend and amplify our remarks, and carry on our researches to an almost indefinite length,-but then, instead of affording information to our readers, instead of giving them a succinct idea of the general plan, we should have led them into a labyrinth, the intricacy of which would confuse and not instruct, and which they would feel no inclination to re-enter. We cannot conclude without expressing a hope, that while contemplating a subject so replete with skill and wisdom, they have seen His power and goodness, whose care is over all that He has created. Well has the Psalmist written, "The works of the Lord are great ; sought out of all them that have pleasure therein."

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But in our researches through the book of nature, how often is its great Author forgotten! such, however, we trust has not been the case on the present occasion. On opening any one page, our readers could not but have seen the mystic characters in

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which His name is inscribed. Science is the handmaid of Religion; and he who, in his researches after knowledge, contents himself with a consideration of merely second causes, leaves half his work undone. Hammersmith. W. MARTIN.

THE SLAVE SHIP.

"Hear this, ye senates, hear this truth sublime, He who allows oppression shares the crime." A VESSEL touched at the coast of Guinea, the crew of which were, or feigned to be, suffering greatly for want of provisions, and the kind-hearted, unsuspicious natives came down in great numbers to the ship, bringing with them the fruits of the country, and other things acceptable to the distressed strangers. The Europeans would not take their presents without making them others in return, and a sort of commerce was established between the Africans and the white people. The former were ready to barter the most valuable goods they possessed, for things of little intrinsic worth, such as knives, looking-glasses, beads, and other trifles. Every day served to impress the natives with additional confidence, till at length they viewed their correspondence with the white men, as being the happiest circumstance that could have transpired for them. They came on board the vessel without the least distrust; and if they felt any regret, it was on account of the probable departure of the strangers.

The negro village which more especially held intercourse with the Europeans, consisted of about a hundred huts, in which were not less than six hundred inhabitants including children. The name of the chief was Morambo, and that of his wife Zilla; they were remarkable for conjugal affection, and love for their infant offspring, a boy and a girl. It was, perhaps, in the first instance, in obedience to the commands of their chief, that the natives came down to the coast to supply the wants of the white men, rather than from direct confidence in the formidable visitors, who, according to their ideas, had risen out of the distant ocean. Morambo indeed sought every means of removing their distresses, and endeavoured by the kindest offices of genuine humanity to conciliate their esteem. When the chief beheld the captain of the ship caressing his boy, his joy was at its height, and his confidence complete; he blessed the heart of the white man who could feel such brotherly affection for the children of Orissa.

The whites had so completely wrought upon the credulous sensibility of the Afri

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cans, that the time of their departure, which was shortly to take place, was regarded by the latter with feelings bordering on despair. A few days before the period of separation arrived, they visited the ship in a company, and entreated their friends not to depart till they had once more joined them in the feast and the dance. Their request was acceded to, and the following day appointed for the farewell entertainment.

All the luxuries of uncivilized nature were collected, to enrich the strangers' last feast; and amidst their mirth and festivity, the tear would start into the eyes of the Africans, whenever any little incident called more immediately to their recollection, the purpose for which they were assembled. Morambo led the king of the water-palace, (for so he called the captain of the vessel,) to the different spots which they had visited together: "We shall converse with each other no more, my friend," said the African, "nor sit any more in these pleasant shades at evening; in a few hours you will have spread those mighty wings, that will again carry you beneath the distant waters from which you rose.'

"

The sun was resting his dilated orb on the verge of the horizon, the Europeans and Africans were engaged in the dance, and Morambo with his wife Zilla was sitting beside the captain, who held their boy in his arms, and seemed to treat him with unusual tenderness. Suddenly a gun from the vessel was fired. The Africans looked alarmed, and for a moment suspended their festivities. Zilla snatched her child from the captain, and the eagle eye of Morambo threw its lightning glance on their companion, who betrayed no emotion. Silently the chief resumed his seat, and beckoned Zilla to do the same.

She did so, but

clasped her boy still closer to her breast. The dance commenced again, but the hilarity of the feast was gone, and the Africans regarded each other with fear and astonishment.

The extreme edge of the sun was just sinking behind the distant mountains. Morambo sat thoughtful and silent, and Zilla's tears coursed down her cheeks, and fell upon her child. Another gun was heard. Morambo sprung upon his feet, and raised up the almost fainting Zilla. "Go, Zilla," said he, "haste to our dwelling, and find the other child; Orissa, protect us! we are betrayed, Zilla!" Three guns were now fired in quick succession, and the Africans all fled towards their habitations. Suddenly one simultaneous shriek of terror and despair burst from the natives: "The huts are in flames!" exclaimed a

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hundred voices, and the wasting element was seen spreading with inconceivable rapidity over the whole village. Morambo perceiving too late the treachery of the Europeans, was on the point of rushing on the captain, when his arms were seized, and he was loaded with irons. Being thus carried on board the ship, he presently saw all his followers brought likewise in chains, and driven into the lower part of the vessel. But he was like a lion raging in the toils of the hunter, when he saw his beloved Zilla inhumanly loaded with fetters, and dragged along by the white men, towards the same quarter of the ship with the rest, "White man," exclaimed he, almost suffocated with rage and anguish," White man, think not Orissa has no care for his children, he will punish your treachery,-yet give me my Zilla, and I will not curse you -see they have already wounded her arm with the fetters-Christian, have mercyhear that shriek-Oh, Zilla, Zil-." He fell senseless at the foot of the mainmast, to which he was chained, and his inhuman captors were sufficiently merciful to leave him in this state of forgetfulness. The unhappy Africans were all secured in the hold of the vessel, the anchor was then weighed, and the ship stood away with a fair breeze for the West Indies.

Swiftly over the billows of the Atlantic, the proud vessel flew along. But on the fourth day of her passage, the man at the mast-head gave notice of an approaching storm. He pointed out the hardly perceptible ox-eye, which was hovering on the distant horizon, the sure forerunner of a tempest. The ominous speck gradually rose in the sky, increasing in size, and already congregating round it those black masses of vapour, which were shortly to hurl their vengeance on the floating shambles.

A rushing hurricane swept round the vessel, tearing away her sails and cordage, and rocking her frightfully over the abyss which opened in the waters. The thunder roared in one continuous peal, and the lightnings seemed to strike through the ocean to the centre of the earth. Shrieks, groans, exclamations of despair, and horrible imprecations of vengeance, issued from the lower parts of the vessel, where the Africans were confined. Morambo, who continued chained to the mainmast, at one moment called on the name of Zilla, then with a burst of frenzy invoked Orissa to exhaust his most dreadful vengeance on the white

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nation of casting overboard all the slaves, and suffering the vessel, thus lightened, to be tossed at the mercy of the waves, hoping that she might eventually ride out the storm.

One by one the miserable wretches were released from the hold, and no sooner did they arrive on the deck, than their inhuman masters cast them headlong into the furious waters. Yet none struggled with his executioners, or uttered a prayer for mercy. In the pauses of the storm, the splash of their bodies falling into the ocean struck the ear, but nothing more was heard or seen of them.

A shrill shriek burst from the under part of the ship, and in an instant Zilla had flown across the deck, and was in the arms of Morambo. They embraced each other with wild delight, their tears mingled, they called on each other's name; their miseries were at an end. Slavery might be endured, death was not terrible, they were once more united. Morambo uttered a broken prayer to Orissa, that he would turn the heart of the white man, and not destroy him.

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Heaven opened the mountains of waters were illuminated-a bolt of fire descended upon the vessel. The captain and his followers discontinued the work of destruction, and, crowding into the boat, left the remaining Africans in the flaming ship. Morambo, in a voice of madness, called to the captain to take in Zilla, but his words were lost in the roar of waters, the thunder peal, and the successive discharge of the ship's guns, as they became heated by the flames.

The captain before leaving the vessel had inhumanly ordered the hatch-way to be secured, to prevent the Africans rushing at once upon deck, and leaping into the boat, which would immediately have sunk on being so over-loaded. Dreadful were the groans and curses that issued from this den of death.

Amidst all the raging of the storm they were heard; and when the war of elements for a moment subsided, sounds of more than mortal anguish and despair were echoed through the waste of waters.

Morambo, still chained to the remnant of the shattered mast, stood like a statue. His folded arms enclosed Zilla. His eagle eye threw a wild indefinite glance over the dreadful scene. He was insensible alike to the tears, the caresses, the shrieks of his beloved,

The flames had communicated to every part of the vessel. The feeble cries of the suffocating wretches in the hold, were heard no more. Morambo and Zilla alone continued to live. The flames were fast gathering round them, and in a few minutes they must be consumed.

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Zilla seemed for a moment to gasp for breath, and in the next her head sunk upon the bosom of her husband, her arms let go their hold of him, and she hung lifeless in the iron grasp of Morambo.

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pects they pictured to their imaginations on first landing in those dominions of which they were the sole possessors, and the light hearts with which they prepared to fix out a spot for the reception of their goods, being their all in the world. After working like horses all the day, they lay down to rest under the canopy of Heaven, trust.

A broad flame of light darted from the water to the very heavens, and was succeeded by an explosion which terminated with its dreadful sounds the horrible catas-ing to rise with the sun, and renew their trophe. Scattered remnants of the ship were afterwards seen floating on the waves, but the spirits of Morambo and Zilla had ascended to the palace of Orissa.

The boat's crew after their departure from the ship were tossed about for some days, exposed to the inclement weather, and suffering all the extremities of hunger and fatigue. As their strength failed, the weaker were thrown overboard by the rest, to lighten the boat, and thus became a prey to the waters. Of those who reached shore some were killed by the natives, and others died for want of the common necessaries of life.

This tale of the sea is still remembered by the Africans, and they point out to their children the distant horizon, beyond which the powerful Orissa stretched his arm to punish the perfidy of the white man, and avenge the wrongs of Morambo and Zilla. London. THOMAS ROSE.

labours. The day dawned, and the sun rose, with a fine breeze, but no vessel-no Valparaiso was in sight.-Scarcely believing what they saw, nor daring to utter what they felt, they ran to the highest hills in the different parts of the island, in hopes of seeing her; but in vain did they stretch their longing eyes to catch a glimpse of all their hopes. She was gone! Nothing was to be seen round the boundless horizon. Sea and sky were all that met their view. The vessel was gone, and with her all their prospects and golden dreams vanished.

"In this forlorn situation, a consultation was held as to what should be done, when it was decided that one brother, with the crew, should take the boat, and cross over to the main land, and, if possible, ascertain at Valdivia what had become of the vessel and cargo. The other brother was to remain behind, to keep possession of the island, and the few things they had landed. George embarked with the crew, leaving John on the island. Trusting that Providence might protect them, they put to sea in their open boat, and reached Valdivia in safety, a distance of about thirty-five miles, where they soon learnt that the Dane had landed, and spread a report of not being able to reach Mocha, that he had sold all their property, and gone in the vessel they knew not where-this was a death-blow to all their prospects. Nothing now remained for poor George but to convey this mourn

MELANCHOLY FATE OF TWO BROTHERS. (From Lieutenant Brand's Voyage to Peru.) "JOHN and George Robertson, two brothers, after buffeting about South America, trying various schemes to invest their little property to the best advantage, decided on settling at the island of Mocha, with the intention of establishing a seal-fishery, and cultivating some parts of the island, which is very prolific in its natural produce, and by the labour of man might, from its situation and capabilities, be made a little para-ful intelligence back to his brother, who, dise. it may be supposed was most anxiously awaiting the result of his mission, independent of anxiety for his personal safety.

"With this object in view, they procured four others, adventurers like themselves, and purchased a whale-boat, with all other things requisite for such an undertaking; they then freighted a vessel, called the Valparaíso, commanded by a Dane, named

sn, for the purpose of carrying them to their destination. When off the island, it fell calm, but being anxious to get on shore, they left the vessel in order to prepare for the reception of the venture which was to stock their little kingdom, the captain promising to land every thing as soon as he was close enough in. Poor, unsuspecting fellows! how little did they dream of the disasters which awaited them. It may easily be imagined the golden pros

"They embarked again in their little boat, and with most sorrowful hearts put out to sea, in order to return to their solitary island. They had not been launched many hours upon the deep, when the clouds began to lower, and the sea to rise in troubled motion, which showed every indication of a coming storm; the wild gulls fluttered over their unprotected heads, and screaming with affright, seemed to confirm what their hearts foreboded, that the gale was near them. Fierce lightning began to play about the blackened horizon, and the distant thunder roared sullenly amidst the gathering clouds, seeming to warn them

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