case of those who aim at a high position in scientific and practical medicine.
Before entering upon the task of preparing what, in my case, can only be euphemistically described as an "oration," I naturally endeavoured to derive some guidance and inspiration from the perusal of the thoughts and utterances of the eminent and distinguished Fellows who have in succession occupied my present position during this intervening period of forty years. My first impression was certainly not one of encouragement, for I at once fully realised that I could not hope to approach, even within measurable distance, the high standard which most of them reached, either as regards the instructive and interesting character of their themes, or the scholarly, polished, and often truly eloquent language in which they were expressed. Moreover, my difficulties were not diminished when I found that almost every possible subject which could be dragged in relating to Harvey had been dealt with again and again, from every conceivable aspect, and it seemed hopeless to attempt to strike out any new line, or to indulge in vain repetition, without weakening and spoiling what had already been so well said. One encouraging suggestion, however, I gained from my perusal—namely, that not a few of the Orators by no means adhered strictly to Harvey's injunctions in the selection of the subject-matter of their discourse, or at least gave
