A man apparently drowned is brought out of the water.

He does not speak, or see, or move, or feel.

He is rubbed and warmed, but no sign of life can be perceived.

Can we therefore conclude that the man is dead?
Nay, we will put him to the test.

Bring a feather, hold it before his mouth, watch it carefully, does it move?
A crowd of anxious bystanders gather round to see.