AND PHYSIOLOGY. 



169 



their positions, and also, from the amount of fat contained in 

 them, to protect the intestines from cold and mechanical 

 violence, and to furnish a soft surface for them to glide over 

 in their various movements. In a lateral view of the abdo- 

 men, Fig. 182, some of the parts of the Omentum and Me- 

 sentery may be seen. At 4 is seen what is known as the 

 lesser Omentum, connecting the Liver and the Stomach. At 

 5 and 6 are seen the folds which constitute the greater 

 Omentum. At 10 is found the Mesentery, which encircles 

 the small intestines. This is a broad fold of the Peritoneum 

 connected to the middle of the cylinder of the Jejunum and 

 Ileum through their whole length, and is attached to the 

 posterior wall of the abdomen. Within the layers of the Me- 

 sentery are found from 130 to 150 bodies of almond shape 

 and size, known as the Mesenteric Glands. Through these 

 the Lacteals pass on their way to form the Thoracic Duct. 



308. Lacteals* — The Lacteals are minute vessels, which 

 commence with the inner or mucous coat of the intestines, 

 Fig. 183. 



Aorta. Thoracic Canal. Lymphatic Glands. 



Lacteals. Mesentery. 



Chyliferous Vessels. 



What small bodies are found in it, and what is the use of the Mesentery ? 



