The questions may be asked--(1) Is it a fœtus?--(2) Is it a mole? If so, is a mole also a fœtus?--(3) Is it merely the coats of the uterus, and unconnected with pregnancy? 1. _Is it a Fœtus?_--The development of the fœtus is given on pp. 35, 36 _et seq._ 2. _Is it a Mole?_--This question gives rise to another: Is a mole a fœtus? To this the answer must be in the affirmative. Moles, being the diseased appendages of the fœtus, vary in character, and have been described by obstetrical writers under the following heads: (_a_) Hydatiginous; (_b_) Carneous; (_c_) Fatty Moles. (_a_) _Hydatiginous Moles_ are a result of a diseased condition of the villi of the chorion. The villi become dropsical, and hang in masses like a bunch of grapes. (_b_) _Carneous Moles._--These are the result of hæmorrhage into the chorion. The blood becomes organised, and a fleshy mass is formed, to which in some cases a withered fœtus is attached. (_c_) _Fatty Moles._--Death of the fœtus and fatty degeneration of the placenta, or fatty degeneration of the placenta and death of the fœtus, produces this variety of mole. A withered fœtus with a mass of fatty placenta are expelled. 3. _Is it merely the Coats of the Uterus, and unconnected with Pregnancy?_--Fleshy masses may be expelled from the womb, which may not be the result of sexual intercourse. The description just given of true moles will, it is hoped, assist in forming a correct diagnosis. Considerable care will be required, for the honour of the woman accused depends upon the opinion given as to the nature of the substances submitted for examination. It must also not be forgotten that moles may be retained for many months in the uterus and be then expelled. The knowledge of this fact may rebut an accusation of infidelity against a wife. Polypi may be discharged from the womb; the presence of a pedicle will point to their true character. All substances expelled from the uterus should be carefully washed in water, and all clots removed. The examination of the woman may also help in the formation of the diagnosis. The absence of the signs of defloration or of recent delivery will be in her favour. 2. =Examination of a Woman stated to have aborted.=--This subject may be divided under two heads--(1) Has the woman been recently delivered? (2) What were the means used to procure the abortion?