such as mud, sand, feathers, &c. have been accidentally, or criminally introduced. It will at the same time be extremely proper to ascertain the state of the nasal cavities, and to observe the quantity and consistence of the mucus in these parts, as well as in the fauces. The tongue may now be gradually pulled downwards, until the isthmus of the fauces is stretched, when, by cutting through the arch of the palate, the whole of the pharynx will be exposed; the dissection should then be extended in order to bring the commencement of the œsophagus into view, which should be carefully examined. The position of the epiglottis is the next object of inspection; and lastly, the interior of the larynx and trachea may be disclosed by making an incision through the thyroid, crycoid, and tracheal cartilages, at their anterior parts. Ligatures should be placed on the lower parts of the œsophagus and trachea.
Thoracic cavity. Having accomplished the examination above described, we may proceed to expose the cavities of the thorax and abdomen, in the manner already explained, (vol. iii, p. 52) remembering always that, by carelessly wounding the thoracic viscera, we shall, in a great degree, defeat the objects of the dissection; on this account it will be advisable to make the division of the ribs with scissars, instead of a scalpel. From the examination of these cavities we shall, in the first place, derive a confirmation, or refutation, of the opinion respecting the maturity, or viabilité of the subject, which the external view of the body had suggested. Previous to the end of the seventh month the heart will be found exceeding in size its just proportions, and without much difference of capacity between the auricles and ventricles. The lungs will appear small, solid, and retracted
