On the other hand, it is elongated
in all polydactylous animals. Such, for instance, is the case in the
pig, in man, and in the dog. While in animals with solid hoofs it is
of a form intermediate to these two, being broad in one part, narrow
in another. Such, for example, is its shape in the horse, the mule,
and the ass.
13
The viscera differ from the flesh not only in the turgid aspect of
their substance, but also in position; for they lie within the body,
whereas the flesh is placed on the outside. The explanation of this is
that these parts partake of the character of blood-vessels, and that
while the former exist for the sake of the vessels, the latter
cannot exist without them.
14
Below the midriff lies the stomach, placed at the end of the
oesophagus when there is one, and in immediate contiguity with the
mouth when the oesophagus is wanting. Continuous with this stomach
is what is called the gut. These parts are present in all animals, for
reasons that are self-evident. For it is a matter of necessity that an
animal shall receive the incoming food; and necessary also that it
shall discharge the same when its goodness is exhausted. This residual
matter, again, must not occupy the same place as the yet unconcocted
nutriment.
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