Dr. Mitchell of Philadelphia, in lecturing to his pupils upon the
diseases of the heart, narrated an anecdote to prove that the expression
"broken heart" was not merely figurative. On one occasion, in the early
period of his life, he accompanied, as surgeon, a packet that sailed
from Liverpool to one of the American ports. The captain frequently
conversed with him respecting a lady who had promised to become his
bride on his return from that voyage. Upon this subject he evinced great
warmth of feeling, and showed Dr. Mitchell some costly jewels,
ornaments, etc., which he intended to present as bridal presents. On
reaching his destination, he was abruptly informed that the lady had
married some one else. Instantly the captain was observed to clap his
hand to his breast, and fall heavily to the ground. He was taken up, and
conveyed to his cabin on board the vessel. Dr. Mitchell was immediately
summoned; but, before he reached the poor captain, he was dead. A
postmortem examination revealed the cause of his unfortunate disease.
His heart was found literally torn in twain! The tremendous propulsion
of blood, consequent upon such a violent nervous shock, forced the
powerful muscle tissues asunder, and life was at an end. The heart was
broken.
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Every heart has its secret sorrow, which the world knows not; and
oftentimes we call a man cold when he is only sad.
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