The structure of the test and subtest designs of the Haptic Intelligence Scale for Adult Blind fosters inferences that what is being measured is the same, or similar to, the Performance subscales of the WAIS. The implied assumption that, while the task is similar, performance without seeing may not be interpreted differently is questioned. Theoretical notions, in part derived from the Dutch psychologist, G. Révész (1950), were employed to interpret what is being assessed in terms of nonvisual sensory input, resultant differences in modes of recognition and structuring of the stimulus, and tasks involved. Analysis is done on 2 levels: (a) the overall test results as a measure of nonverbal cognitive adaptation to and ability to employ touch and movement in a variety of tasks; and (b) the subtests as to mental functions involved, the clinical cues that can be derived from performance of the tasks, and instances of marked differences in scores earned on one subtest relative to other subtests. (8 ref)