respiration, and not the exciting strain of the pibroch, which is meant. The argument that the fact is inexplicable, and the reference to the “woollen bag” are, however, adverse to this view.
Esquirol attributes a considerable amount of power both for good and evil to the influence of music on the insane. “I have often employed music but have very rarely obtained any success thereby. It calms and composes the mind, but does not cure. I have seen insane persons whom music ren dered furious :-one was so, because all the notes appeared false :—another, because he thought it frightful that the people should amuse themselves in the presence of so miserable
a being. I believe the ancients exaggerated the effects of music, while the facts recorded by modern writers are not sufficiently numerous to determine under what circumstances
it possibly may be of benefit. This means of treatment, however, is precious, especially in convalescence, and ought not to be neglected, however indeterminate may be the principles of its application, and however uncertain may be its efficacy.” When Lear awakes with the loud music ringing in his ears, and finds himself once more in royal state and apparel, and with Cordelia at his feet, fancy flashes upon him the idea that he has passed the dread bourne of life. Remembrance fails, and even personal identity needs verification. Lear. You do me wrong, to take me out o' the grave :— Thou art a soul in bliss ; but I am bound
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears Do scald like molten lead. Cor.
Sir, do you know me? Lear. You are a spirit, I know; When did you die? Cor. Still, still, far wide
Phys. He's scarce awake; let him alone awhile. Lear. Where have I been? Where am I?—Fair day-light?-I am mightily abus'd.—I should even die with pity, To see another thus—I know not what to say.—
I will not swear these are my hands :-let's see ; I feel this pin prick. 'Would I were assur’d Of my condition. N*
