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A common species of tumour is that which is attached to a mucous surface, and is called POLYPUS. Polypi vary in structure and disposition; some are simple and benign, others are most malignant. The simple mucous polypus has a shining appearance, being invested by an extremely delicate membrane, in some degree resembling the mucous, and moistened by a fluid similar to the mucous secretion; it is of soft consistence and homogeneous structure. They are generally light brown, sometimes greyish, and in some degree diaphanous. They are connected to the mucous membrane by a narrow pedicle; generally occur in clusters, and are of pyriform shape; one or more are often suspended from one narrow base, and they seldom attain a large size. They possess but little vascularity, though occasionally minute vessels are seen ramifying pretty freely on their surface, and may be considered as almost devoid of sensibility. The malignant polypus, on the contrary, is always attached to the mucous membrane, and also to the subjacent parts, by means of a broad base; and its form and structure vary according to the particular action which it has assumed. Most frequently it is encephaloid, of an irregular form, and often presenting a cauliflower appearance, its surface being studded with numerous excrescences of medullary consistence and colour. Such tumours will be afterwards treated of, as occurring in different situations.