The speech assumes a sobbing tone, and occasionally the expression of the face is wild and haggard.

As regards the crucial diagnostic test of a glass of water, the following account of a patient's attempt to drink is given by Curtis and quoted by Warren: "A glass of water was offered the patient, which he refused to take, saying that he could not stand so much as that, but would take it from a teaspoon.

On taking the water from the spoon he evinced some discomfort and agitation, but continued to raise the spoon.

As it came within a foot of his lips, he gagged and began to gasp violently, his features worked, and his head shook.

He finally almost tossed the water into his mouth, losing the greater part of it, and staggered about the room gasping and groaning.