Translations:Victor of Aveyron/109/en

There still remain some considerations of no trifling importance, which I had intended to have annexed to those that have been already stated; but the illustrations which they would have required would have trespassed the limits, and been inconsistent with the design of this little work. I moreover perceived, in comparing my own observations with the doctrines of some of our metaphysicians, that I dissented from them on certain interesting points. I ought of course to wait for a greater number of tacts, from which I may be able to draw a more certain anti-secure conclusion. A motive very similar to the preceding has prevented me, when speaking of all the developments of young Victor s constitution, from dwelling upon the period of his puberty, which has shown itself, for some decades past, in a most timing and unequivocal manner; and the first appearances of which cast considerable suspicion on the origin of certain affections of the heart, which w r e regard as very natural. I ought not, at this stage of my investigation, to be precipitate in judging and in drawing conclusions. I am deeply impressed with the persuasion, that until. they are matured by time, and confirmed by farther observations, that we ought to refrain from publishing, or even entertaining speculations, which may have a tendency to destroy prejudices in themselves perhaps respectable, and which, beyond all doubt, constitute the most amiable, as well asthe most consoling illusions of social life.