2. Now when a man drinks, most of it goes to the belly (the gullet being a sort of funnel which catches the greatest part of all that we ingest) but some of it goes into the larynx as well. The amount is, however, very small - not sufficient for us to feel it forcing its way in through the pressure of the current; for the epiglottis is a precisely fitting lid, and will not allow anything more than drink to get past. Here is the proof: take some water, colour it with blue copper carbonate or red ochre and give it to an animal which is almost dying of thirst (a pig is best, since this animal is neither cautious in its feeding habits nor refined in its manners). While the animal is still drinking, cut its throat. You will find that it is stained with what the animal has drunk. The operation however is one which requires uncommon skill. We need have no doubts then when we say that drink has an effect, and a beneficial one, upon the larynx. Why is it then that when water rushes in impetuously it inconveniences us an provokes an acute fit of coughing? Because, I say, its course is then contrary to that of the breath; but the liquid which flows in as a result of pressure passes down the side of the larynx and hence does not oppose the upward passage of breath. Quite the contrary, in fact: by moistening the larynx it provides a smooth passage for the air.