=Pharynx.= The pharynx may be examined externally by inspection and palpation, and internally by direct digital palpation. Inspection reveals possible deformities of the region of the gullet, palpation the condition of the tissues as well as abnormal sensibility and infiltration. Internally, digital examination must be cautiously conducted, and after a strong gag has been securely inserted in the mouth. Under such conditions it is without danger. The hand being inserted exactly in the median line will detect obstructions which may already have been partly identified by external palpation, as well as the existence of inflammation with or without the formation of false membranes, and of ulcerations, polypi, etc. =Œsophagus.= In consequence of its anatomical formation, situation and course, the œsophagus may be divided into two distinct parts—viz., the cervical, which can be examined from the outside, and the thoracic, which cannot so be examined. The cervical part may be examined by inspection, by palpation from one side, or by palpation with both hands and from both sides. [Illustration: $1] Inspection leads to the detection of changes in the shape of the œsophagus and of the jugular furrow. In fat subjects, however, it is of little value. As the position and the course of the œsophagus are known, unilateral palpation, or, better still, bilateral palpation, employing both hands, is of very much greater service. These methods reveal the presence of swellings, infiltrations, changes in shape and sensibility, the presence of foreign bodies, the existence of dilatations or contractions of the tube, etc. Auscultation and percussion, though recommended by some practitioners, are not of much service. Inability to swallow, due to change in the œsophagus, is also detected by inspection. Its existence suggests a number of possible conditions, such as fissure or ulceration of the œsophagus, compression in the mediastinal region as a result of tuberculous or other disease, contraction or dilatation of the œsophagus, etc. Furthermore, inspection will betray the existence of dilatation of the tube, to which vomiting and regurgitation of food are sometimes due. Internal exploration is the only method of detecting changes in the thoracic portion, and may also be utilised to locate lesions in the cervical region. It is practised by passing a sound of small calibre or any flexible cylindrical object, such as a cart rope, etc. The patient must be fixed with the head extended on the neck and a proper gag or speculum introduced into the mouth. Exploration assists us in recognising the existence of inflammation of the œsophagus, true or false contraction, dilatation and the presence of obstructions. In animals of the bovine species all these lesions—viz., inflammation of the œsophagus, fissuring and ulceration, obstructions, compressions, dilatations and contractions of the tube—although not very frequent, are nevertheless from time to time encountered.