led to conclude that there must be some relation between the contraction of
this muscle and the secretion of tears. Can you tell me what this relation
is? Does the orbicularis press against, and so directly stimulate, the
lachrymal gland? As a slight blow on the eye causes, by reflex action, a
copious effusion of tears, can the slight spasmodic contraction of the
orbicularis act like a blow? This seems hardly possible. Does the same
nerve which runs to the orbicularis send off fibrils to the lachrymal
glands; and if so, when the order goes for the muscle to contract, is
nervous force sent sympathetically at the same time to the glands? (464/3.
See "Expression of the Emotions," page 169.)

I should be extremely much obliged if you [would] have the kindness to give
me your opinion on this point.


LETTER 465. TO F.C. DONDERS.

(465/1. Mr. Darwin was indebted to Sir W. Bowman for an introduction to
Professor Donders, whose work on Sir Charles Bell's views is quoted in the
"Expression of the Emotions," pages 160-62.)

Down, June 3rd [1870?].

I do not know how to thank you enough for the very great trouble which you
have taken in writing at such length, and for your kind expressions towards
me. I am particularly obliged for the abstract with respect to Sir C.
Bell's views (465/2. See "Expression of the Emotions," pages 158 et seq.:
Sir Charles Bell's view is that adopted by Darwin--viz. that the
contraction of the muscles round the eyes counteracts the gorging of the
parts during screaming, etc. The essay of Donders is, no doubt, "On the