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. So, too, there is
nothing irrational in supposing that the trunk may run forwards to a
certain distance after the head has been cut seeing that bloodless
animals at any rate can live, and that for a considerable time,
after decapitation, as has been set forth and explained in other
passages.
The purposes, then, for which the viscera severally exist have now
been stated. It is of necessity upon the inner terminations of the
vessels that they are developed; for humour, and that of a bloody
character, cannot but exude at these points, and it is of this,
solidified and coagulated, that the substance of the viscera is
formed. Thus they are of a bloody character, and in substance resemble
each other while they differ from other parts.
11
The viscera are enclosed each in a membrane. For they require some
covering to protect them from injury, and require, moreover, that this
covering shall be light. To such requirements membrane is well
adapted; for it is close in texture so as to form a good protection,
destitute of flesh so as neither to attract humour nor retain it,
and thin so as to be light and not add to the weight of the body. Of
the membranes those are the stoutest and strongest which invest the
heart and the brain; as is but consistent with reason. For these are
the parts which require most protection, seeing that they are the main
governing powers of life, and that it is to governing powers that
guard is due
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