roxysms there is sometimes an involuntary discharge of fæces, urine, and semen; the evacuation of the fæces very generally occurs in cases of strangulation, and sometimes in those of apoplexy. The appearance of blood flowing from the ears would indicate a violent death from some external cause.
Apparent age of the deceased.—It is important to notice this circumstance, as it will not only assist us in identifying the individual, but, at the same time, point out the diseases of which he was most susceptible, and those of which he was less liable. In relation to such an object the question of age was keenly debated on the trial of Donellan, for an account of which we must refer the reader to the evidence printed in the Appendix. Apoplexy rarely occurs except in the middle or decline of life. Hippocrates says chiefly between the 40th and 50th year. Aphor. Sect. vi, 57.
Description of his person, as to bulk, stature, obesity, muscular powers, &c.—Many are the reasons which render a full and accurate investigation of these points an extremely important part of the inquiry. To say nothing of their use in identifying the individual, they will point out the diseases to which such a habit of body would render him liable; and we shall be enabled to deduce a general inference as to the probable state of his health. If suspicions should exist against any individual, we shall be thus prepared to arrive at some probable conclusion with regard to the degree of resistance which the deceased might be able to offer; by comparing which with the powers of the supposed assailant, some valuable circumstantial evidence may be elicited.
Conformation of the neck as to shortness, thickness, &c.—The apoplectic conformation may be said to be indicated by a large head, red face, short and thick
