WAXY DEGENERATION is a morbid process in which the healthy tissue of various organs is transformed into a peculiar substance, allied in some respects to amyloid compounds, and in others to albuminous substances. Organs affected by this degeneration have a certain resemblance in consistency and physical character to wax. They may be cut into portions of the most regular shape, with sharp angles and smooth surfaces; and the thinnest possible slices may be removed by a sharp knife for micro scopical examination. Such organs are abnormally translucent, increased in volume, solidity, and weight. Usually, the first parts afttcted by this degeneration are the small blood-vessels, the middle or muscular coat being first changed. Subsequently, the secreting cells become similarly affected. When a solution of iodine is brought in cm tact with such tissues, a very deep violet red color is produced; and this deep red color is alone a sufficiently characteristic test. Although amyloid degeneration is common to many tissues and organs, the parts most frequently affected are the spleen, liver, and kidneys. This morbid condition in one or more organs is the expression of a general
pathological state, the conditions and relations of which are as yet but little known.
WAY, in law, deuotes the right of a person or persons to pass over land of another, or the path or road over which such right may be exercised. Ways are either private or public. A private right of way is derived by grant, express or implied. If one con vey part of his land to another, and cannot reach the part reserved except over the part conveyed, a right of way over the latter is impliedly reserved. This is called a way of necessity. As to another method of obtaining a right of way, see PRESCRIPTION, ante. Intermediate between public and private ways are quasi public ways, such for instance as the inhabitants of a t. have immemorially used from their t. to a market. Such a right cannot be now created, but must be the result of an ancient custom. A highway is created where a person has expressly or presumptively dedicated a portion of his land to the public, or it may be created by statute.