From:
William Bowman, 1st baronet
To:
Charles Robert Darwin
Date:
1 Feb 1868
Source of text:
Sir John Paget Bowman (private collection)
Summary:
Thanks CD for the gift of his new work [Variation].
Contributor:
Darwin Correspondence Project
From:
Charles Robert Darwin
To:
William Bowman, 1st baronet
Date:
30 Mar [1868]
Source of text:
Doris Harris Autographs (dealer) (no date)
Summary:
Clarifies his earlier query on Bell’s observations. Seeks confirmation of Bell’s statement that the conjunctiva of a child whose eyes are opened forcibly during a screaming fit become engorged with blood. CD has noted a relationship between contraction of the orbicular muscle and secretion of tears; can WB explain why they appear related?
Contributor:
Darwin Correspondence Project
From:
William Bowman, 1st baronet
To:
Charles Robert Darwin
Date:
1 Apr [1868]
Source of text:
DAR 160: 268
Summary:
Asks for precise reference in Charles Bell to subject of CD’s question. Agrees to assist CD’s investigation. Asks about Bell’s observations on eyes engorged with blood. Has noticed that eyes of children with excessive photophobia tend to be pale when forced open.
Contributor:
Darwin Correspondence Project
From:
Charles Robert Darwin
To:
William Bowman, 1st baronet
Date:
2 Apr [1868]
Source of text:
DAR 249: 72 (photocopy)
Summary:
Gives Charles Bell’s explanation of the contraction of the orbicularis during screaming and seeks confirmation of his view because the action is "the key-stone of a whole class of expressions". Curious to learn WB’s conclusion in regard to the relation between contraction of the orbicularis and secretion of tears. Notes that voluntary contraction of the orbicularis causes no tears.
Contributor:
Darwin Correspondence Project