CHAP. 2.—THE TORPEDO: NINE REMEDIES.
And then, besides, even if we had not this illustration by
the agency of the echeneïs, would it not have been quite sufficient
only to cite the instance of the torpedo, [Note] another inhabitant
also of the sea, as a manifestation of the mighty
powers of Nature? From a considerable distance even, and if
only touched with the end of a spear or staff, this fish has the
property of benumbing even the most vigorous arm, and of
rivetting the feet of the runner, however swift he may be in
the race. If, upon considering this fresh illustration, we find
ourselves compelled to admit that there is in existence a certain
power which, by the very exhalations [Note] and, as it were, emanations
therefrom, is enabled to affect the members of the human
body, [Note] what are we not to hope for from the remedial
influences which Nature has centred in all animated beings?
