The abnormal development of animals in which the testicles have failed to make their appearance by descending through the inguinal canal into the bags, is quite commonly met with in solipeds, the animal being then known by the designation of ridglings or originals. The position assumed by the organ in relation to its normal situation being so altered that it may be found either partly engaged in the inguinal canal (Fig. 22), or only remaining close to its superior opening (Fig. 23), is one of these inequalities, constituting what is called inguinal criptorchidy; another being when it remains floating in or adherent to some parts of the abdominal cavity--a condition known as abdominal criptorchidy (Fig. 24). As this condition has usually a peculiar effect on the temper of the animal so affected, often rendering him unfit for general use, it necessitates, on that account, the act of castration, with some changes in the manipulations described for the operation upon animals exempt from such an infirmity. In these cases the operation presents more difficulties, and is of a more serious character than the former, demanding on the part of the operator all the skill and knowledge which can be acquired from its frequent performance and extensive study. That the operation is one which is largely performed on the Continent there is no doubt, and many European operators have made for themselves an extensive reputation in connection with it. Among these the name of Professor Degives, of the Brussels school, merits mention. [Illustration: FIG. 22. TESTICLE ENGAGED IN THE INGUINAL RING. B--Testicle. C--Gubernaculum testis. D--Inguinal ring.] But there is probably, on this Continent at least, no better accredited authority, in this branch of surgery, than a gentleman, a layman, of Illinois, known very widely as FARMER MILES, who has for many years not only sustained an eminent repute in his specialty as a gelder, but I believe, has devoted a large share of study specially to the castration of ridglings. He has not only traversed large portions of the United States in the practice of this interesting branch of veterinary surgery, but has likewise achieved much renown and appreciative criticism from foreign sources, having travelled extensively in various European countries, and earned much honor from those who have watched his methods, and received ocular proof of his dexterity and success within the sphere of his special field of usefulness. [Illustration: FIG. 23. TESTICLE CLOSE TO THE RING. C′--Internal portion of the gubernaculum testis. C--Its external portion. B--Testicle. D--Inguinal ring.] [Illustration: FIG. 24. TESTICLE FLOATING IN THE ABDOMEN. A--Peritoneal ligament attached to the lumbar region. B--Testicle. C--Gubernaculum testis. D--Inguinal ring.]