206 



SOLVENT FUNCTION OF THE STOMACH. 



Pp. S3. 



which yields the solvent fluid to be mixed, as above-men- 

 tioned, with the alimentary matters. In the horse the left 

 half of the stomach is lined by a membrane which enjoys but 

 very slight secreting power, and is protected by a thick, 

 stratified, cuticular structure. In the right end the soft and 

 actively secreting mucous coat is the same as we find in the 

 stomachs of carnivora, or in the fourth gastric compartment 

 of our domestic ruminants. In the empty stomach the 

 mucous coat is thrown into ample folds, which are effaced as 

 the organ is distended. In the horse, as we have before 

 shown, even during distension, there are folds arranged 

 spirally at the opening of the gullet. 



On examining the structure of the mucous membrane, we 

 find that it is reticulated, and may be compared to the mem- 

 brane lining the reticulum, but in miniature. (See Fig. 84.) 

 Into each compartment or space there are openings of glands 

 or tubes, about -g^-g-th of an inch in diameter. The eminences, 

 including the polygonal interspaces, vary in shape in the 



