4/31 This is called the _drum_ of the ear, because between it and the canal of the ear there is stretched a thin membrane like the head of a drum. The ear-drum is also called the _middle ear_. Bones of the Ear.~--Within the drum of the ear there are three curious little bones which are joined together so as to make a complete chain, reaching from the drum-head to the other side of the drum. The last bone fits into a little hole which leads into another curious chamber. This chamber, which is called the _inner ear_, is filled with fluid, and in this fluid the nerve of hearing is spread out. |