This exudation
is all the more remarkable, as the surface is then cold,
and hence the term a cold sweat; whereas, the sudorific glands
are properly excited into action when the surface is heated.
The hairs also on the skin stand erect; and the superficial
muscles shiver. In connection with the disturbed action of the heart,
the breathing is hurried. The salivary glands act imperfectly;
the mouth becomes dry,[16] and is often opened and shut.
I have also noticed that under slight fear there is a strong
tendency to yawn. One of the best-marked symptoms is the trembling
of all the muscles of the body; and this is often first seen
in the lips. From this cause, and from the dryness of the mouth,
the voice becomes husky or indistinct, or may altogether fail.
"Obstupui, steteruntque comae, et vox faucibus haesit."
[16] Mr. Bain (`The Emotions and the Will,' 1865, p. 54) explains in
the following manner the origin of the custom "of subjecting criminals
in India to the ordeal of the morsel of rice. The accused is made
to take a mouthful of rice, and after a little time to throw it out.
If the morsel is quite dry, the party is believed to be guilty,--
his own evil conscience operating to paralyse the salivating organs.
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