XIV. On the temperature of man

Abstract

It has been too generally taken for granted that the temperature of man in health, as measured by a thermometer placed under the tongue, is a constant one. I have endeavoured to prove from the results of observations, that this is not strictly correct; that when not disturbed by disease it is subject to variation, to rise and fall under certain influences, especially of heat and cold, rest and exercise. In the present communication I propose to submit to the Royal Society some further observations on the same subject, made with an instrument better adapted for the inquiry than the medical thermometer commonly used, and which has afforded results of a precise and satisfactory kind.