86 Corolla 4dr 1.6 Automatic Exhaust Question.

[midwestconnection]

After the manifold on the engine and the header pipe and then going under the car from the engine there is something missing that has been cut out of the exhaust and a flex exhaust pipe added in it's place and then about a foot farther back is what looks like the catalytic converter with hose connections coming out the side and then it goes on to the back of the car and the muffler under the trunk.

Can somebody tell me what that missing piece is?

[midwestconnection]

Any help please?