English: CASE A.—MICROCEPHALIC.
N. X. (Profound, Excitable Idiot). Note the bird-like profile, the
marked opisthognathism, and the degenerate ear. She is a lineal
descendant of Pocahontas, coming from a most distinguished family
both in politics and in literature. Photo was taken in 55th year.
From early childhood, M. was petted as one would pet an animal,
and was taught a number of tricks by her nurse and her father. At
his dinner-parties, when the ladies had withdrawn and men and wine
were in possession of the dining-room, he would give her champagne and
brandy until she was drunk, and then have her stagger up and down the
middle of the table, while he and his guests applauded and laughed at
her antics. In time she developed a certain kind of intelligence. When
asked what one did on Sunday she would clasp her hands, bow her head,
and cross herself; for Monday she would imitate washing; for Tuesday,
ironing; etc.
Persistent nausea was present, and merycism developed. She got a
certain amount of pleasure from vomiting, and unless constantly
watched would put her fingers down her throat in order to regurgitate.
For forty-five years she took no solid food, but lived on eggs, milk,
champagne, and brandy. She recognized the closet where her drink-
ables were kept, and when anyone approached it she would go through
the motions of drinking. She never learned to talk, and could do
nothing for herself, needing the care of a baby. She menstruated but
once in her life. She died of bulbar paralysis in her 59th year. Head
measurements: front occipital diameter, 534 inches; transverse
diameter, 412 inches; largest circumference, 16 inches; over head
from ears, 8 inches. The head tapered so much that the whole cal-
varium could be easily grasped in one hand. Her weight was 9312
pounds; and her height was 4 feet 8 inches.