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Human Heart-Circulation of the Blood

it undergoes certain changes, and then passes through veins into the left auricle of the heart, thence into the left ventricle, by the contraction of which it is forced into an artery, through whose ramifications it is dispersed to all parts of the body, from which it is again returned to the right auricle; thus keeping up a perpetual circulation, for, whilst life remains, the action of the heart never ceases. In a state of health the heart contracts about seventy times in a minute, and as supposed, at each contraction, to propel about two ounces of blood; to do which, the force it exerts is very considerable, though neither the quantity of force exerted, nor of blood propelled, is accurately determined. The heart comprises within itself a world of wonders, and whilst we admire its admirable structure and properties, we are naturally led to consider the wisdom and power of Him who formed it, from whom first proceeded the circulation of the blood, and the pulsations of the heart; who commands it to be still, and the functions instantly cease to act.

This important secret of the circulation of blood in the human body was brought to light by William Harvey, an English physician, a little before the year 1600: and when it is considered thoroughly, it will appear to be one of the most stupendous works of OMNIPOTENCE.

The blood, the fountain whence the spirits flow,.

The generous stream that waters every part And motion, vigour, and warm life conveys To every particle that moves or lives, -through unnumber'd tube.

Pour'd by the heart, and to the heart again Refunded.

Armstrong.

Who in the dark the vital flame illum'd, And from th' impulsive engine caused to flow Th' ejaculated streams through many a pipe Arterial with meand'ring lapse, then bring Refluent their purple tribute to their fount:

Who spun the sinews' branchy thread, and twin'd The azure veins in spiral knots, to waft Life's tepid waves all o'er; or, who with bones Compacted, and with nerves the fabric strung:

Their specious form, their fitness, which results From figure and arrangement, all declare Th ' Artificer Divine!

Bally.

Again:- -The nerves, with equal wisdom made.

Arising from the tender brain, pervade And secret pass in pairs the channel'd bone, And thence advance through paths and roads unknown.

Form'd of the finest complicated thread, The num'rous cords are through the body spread.

These subtle channels, such is every nerve, For vital functions, sense, and motion serve;-- They help to labour and concoct the food, Refine the chyle, and animate the blood.

Blackmore.

We now proceed to some CURIOUS AND INTERESTING