The least check
would have thrown them down the hatchway, and probably killed one,
or both, but they leaped over it without difficulty. They differ in
intellectual vigour; the perceptions of one are more acute than those
of the other, and there is a corresponding coincidence in moral
qualities. He who appears most intelligent is somewhat irritable in
temper, while the other's disposition is mild."
The connexion between these boys might present an opportunity for some
interesting observations in regard to physiology and pathology. There
is, no doubt, a network of blood-vessels and some minute nerves
passing from one to the other. How far these parts are capable of
transmitting the action of medicines, and of diseases, and especially
what medicines and diseases, are points well worthy of consideration.
Dr. W. thinks that any indisposition of one extends to the other; that
they are inclined to sleep at the same time; eat about the same
quantity, and perform other acts with great similarity. Both he and
Mr. Hunter are of opinion that touching one of them when they are
asleep, awakens both. When they are awake, an impulse given to
one does not in the least affect the other. There is evidently no
impression received by him who is not touched. But the opinion just
mentioned is undoubtedly erroneous. The slightest movement of one
is so speedily perceived by the other, as to deceive those who have
not observed closely.
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