ABSTRACT
A totally different series of reactions follow the stimulus received according as we plunge a hand into warm or into very cold water. In an order which concerns, not the succession, but the growing complexity of the reflexes, there are first of all reflexes in the vaso-motor field, in the form of vaso-dilation in one case and of vaso-constriction in the other. Certain general reactions follow, either of acceptance of the stimulus with an appearance of satisfaction and an attitude of expansion or, on the contrary, reactions of defence with sudden withdrawal of the hand, grimaces and a contracting attitude. These two expressions are accompanied by various manifestations in the respiratory, circulatory, secretory domains, etc. Finally there are co-ordinated acts of verbal expression, extremely variable in form, showing recognition of the excitation and of its effects: “That is warm water, the contact with which is agreeable; one likes to prolong it. Oh ! how icy this water is; it gives you a shock; it is painful; I really do not envy anyone who puts his hand in it.”
