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CHAP. X. Of the NUTRITION and POSTURE of the INFANT.
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THIS is manifest, that the Foetus is nourished in the first Months, by the Umbilical Vessels only: But the several following Reasons engage me to think; that, in the latter Months, it is alimented by the Mouth also, and That by a glutinous limpid Liquor: Which, being (probably) secreted from the Amnion for that Purpose, is found to surround it.
I. BECAUSE this Liquor, which seems very proper for that Use, is found not only in the Mouth, but also in the OEsophagus and Stomach of the INFANT.
II. IT is found changed in the smaller Intestines[23]; and being chylify’d in the Ventricle, it turns to Excrements, call’d Meconium, in the Rectum, or strait Gut.
III. WE find a large Quantity of this Liquor, surrounding the Fœtus in the first Months, and but little in the last; which cannot probably be consum’d any other way, than by the INFANT.
IV. BECAUSE[24] that the Oesophagus, Intestines, lacteal Vessels, and thoracick Duct, may continue open, and be gradually accustomed to their respective Functions.