I. On the relation between the structure, function, and distribution of the cranial nerves. Preliminary communication

In a previous paper I have pointed out that the structure, distribution, and function of the spinal nerves, as well as the arrangement of their centres of origin in the spinal cord, all lead to the conclusion that these nerves are divisible into two parts; (1) a somatic part, supplying the external surface of the body and the muscles derived from the muscle plates, and (2) a splanchnic part, supplying the internal surfaces and organs and the muscles derived from the lateral plates of mesoblast. I also pointed out that the cranial nerves were built up on a similar plan and arose from similar centres of origin to the spinal nerves; that they too were divisible into somatic and splanchnic groups of the same type as in the spinal nerves.