436 MYOLOGY

in the interval between it and the Latissimus dorsi, where it closes in the axillary-
space and forms the axillary fascia; it divides at the lateral margin of the Latis-
simus dorsi into two layers, one of which passes in front of, and the other behind
it; these proceed as far as the spinous processes of the thoracic vertebrse, to which

they are attached. As the fascia leaves the lower edge of the Pectoralis major to cross
the floor of the axilla it sends a layer upward under cover of the muscle; this lamina
splits to envelop the Pectoralis minor, at the upper edge of which it is continuous
with the coracoclavicular fascia. The hollow of the armpit, seen when the arm
is abducted, is produced mainly by the traction of this fascia on the axillary floor,
and hence the lamina is sometimes named the suspensory ligament of the axilla.
At the lower part of the thoracic region the deep fascia is well-developed, and is
continuous with the fibrous sheaths of the Recti abdominis.

Fia. 410. —
Superficial muscles of the chest and front ot the arm.

The Pectoralis major (Fig. 410) is a thick, fan-shaped muscle, situated at the
upper and forepart of the chest. It arises from the anterior surface of the sternal
from half the breadth of the anterior surface of the sternum,
half of the clavicle;
as low down as the attachment of the cartilage of the sixth or seventh rib; from the