GENTLEMEN,

THE cultivation of Science, and the progress of arts have justly merited the regard of every age and country. I esteem myself happy, therefore, that I have an opportunity of delivering my sentiments before so candid and learned an audi­ence, upon a subject which respects the advance­ement of the most useful knowledge, and the grow­ing credit of this institution;—a subject as import­ant as can well be imagined to employ our serious deliberation, or animate our warmest pursuit.

[Page 2]WHAT I am to propose is a scheme for transplant­ing Medical Science into this seminary, and for the improvement of every branch of the healing art.

IT must be confessed that in a knowledge of the supreme Being, and of the duties which we owe to him, consists the sublime of true philosophy.

THIS is the most interesting pursuit of rational creatures, as it regards the soul and constitutes the highest happiness.

A KNOWLEDGE of the duties which we owe to so­ciety, resulting from the relation in which we stand to one another, is an object of the next importance. After this, whatever relates to the welfare of the bo­dy deserves our most immediate concern.—Life, when burdened with disease, is but a complication of woes. Health is that choice seasoning which gives a relish to all our enjoyments. As the end of medical science is to restore and preserve health, the welfare of every individual, of whatever age or sex, is concerned in the improvement of it amongst them.

MEDICINE is a science as important in its object, as it is difficult in the acquisition. It is very exten­sive in its researches, and presupposes the knowledge of many other sciences. The cultivation of it re­quires [Page 3] no small abilities, and demands of those who engage in the arduous pursuit an enlarged and be­nevolent mind. But notwitstanding these difficulties, this science must still be productive of very great ad­vantages and honour to a seminary of learning, to a city and to a country; where the wisdom of well con­certed laws, and the encouragement given to the pro­moters of it, are sufficient to procure it an effectual estabishment.

A THIRST of knowledge and a spirit of inquiry are natural to man. It merits our endeavours to direct these to worthy objects. Whilst we are anxious to inform ourselves what were the customs of former ages, by what boundaries distant kingdoms are li­mited, what were the rites and ceremonies of bar­barous nations, or what flowers bloom in the remote Indies;—shall we have no desire of studying what more immediately relates to ourselves? shall we neg­lect to examine into the divinely curious and ama­zing structure of our own bodies? are we not con­cerned in applying our pursuits, to find out the nature of those multiplied calamities to which the human frame is unavoidably exposed, and the means of removing or asswaging those calamities?

TO hint at the means whereby we may accomplish the institution of medical schools in this city, and to [Page 4] point out some of the most considerable advantages it must be attended with, is the task in which I am here to engage. Upon a subject so new in this place, and so pregnant with the most interesting consequen­ces, I flatter myself you will hear candidly what I have to impart; and let the goodness of my intention apologize for any inaccuracies in the execution.

IT may be proper, in the first place, to give a gene­ral view of the boundaries of medicine, and the dif­ferent provinces of this extensive science; to show its present condition in America; the difficulties which accompany its study, and the impracticability of making any great progress therein, till it is put on a better footing. These being explained, the means of effecting that end, and the benefits arising from thence will be more easily apprehended.

ACCORDING to the learned Gaubius, ‘Medicine is the guardian of life and healthy against death and disease.’ ^* To be more particular. The Art of healing consists in a thorough knowledge of the human oeconomy; what constitutes health; what are the diseases, as well internal as external to which the body is exposed; their seat, causes, and symptoms; and the means of applying with skill, judgment, and address, the various remedies adapt­ed to cure or mitigate them.

[Page 5]FROM this view of medicine, we readily percieve Its great extent; we learn the principles on which is founded the division of it, into the Study of Physic, more properly speaking, and into Surgery.

THE former is conversant about the cure of in­ward diseases, and such complaints as require the use of medicines. The latter principally regards external disorders, and those inward maladies which need the manual assistance of a dexterous operator to relieve them. We likewise understand the reason of so many distinct branches of medical study; the pre­vious knowledge of which, both in the Physician and Surgeon, are requisite in order to qualify them for successful practice.

THE necessity of discriminating between physic and surgery will more manifestly appear when we consider, that they are distinct in their nature, and that either of them is an art, sufficient of itself to en­gage the industry of one man to cultivate.

THE various branches of knowledge which com­pose the science of medicine, are Anatomy, Materia Medica, Botany, Chymistry, the Theory of medi­cine, and the practice.

THESE will be fully known by defining them se­parately; by showing what weight they bear in the [Page 6] ballance of healing arts; their relation to each other; and how far the knowledge of them respectively con­tributes towards the cure of diseases.

ANATOMY, taken in a general sense, consists in know­ing the structure of the animal body; considered in parti­cular, it implies a knowledge of the frame and organization of the human body. It teaches of what kind of sub­stance all the parts are composed; it shews their fi­gure, texture, firmness, connection, and relation to each other. From this source we derive our first knowledge of the feat of diseases; of the proper or im­proper arangement of parts; of the danger or safety of an operation; and learn the best manner of perform­ing it with dexterity and success; In studying the art of healing we commonly begin with Anatomy, and very justly, for, unacquainted with this, it is impossible to learn the functions of the body in a healthy state, to know of what kind its diseases are, or how to remedy them.

IT is Anatomy that guides the doubtful step of the young votary of medicine through an obscure laby­rinth, where a variety of minute objects present themselves in such a group as, at first, to perplex his imagination. It is Anatomy which unravels the first difficulties in his pursuit; it lays open to his view the diversity of parts, their combination, dis­position, [Page 7] subordination, and movements. These, however intricate they may appear, all concur to establish the most perfect harmony in the human frame, which the attentive inquirer finds from Ana­tomy, to be created with the most geometrical ex­actness, according to laws prescribed by unerring wisdom.

IN short, Anatomy is to be esteemed one of the principal pillars, on which we are to raise the supper­structure of medical science, as well physic as sur­gery. Those who would engage in either cannot apply themselves too early, or with too much atten­tion, in order to become skillful anatomists.

CAN any one pretend to stile himself a Surgeon, or to perform any operation with safety, if he knows not the structure of the part he is to operate upon? If he is ignorant of the muscles which give it mo­tion, or of the nerves which give it sensation, by cut­ting through the tendon of a muscle, or by dividing some principal nerve, he may forever deprive the pati­ent of life, or movement in the part. If he knows not the course and distribution of its vessels, he may wound some considerable artery, and from the loss of blood may occasion dangerous accidents. Perhaps speedy death will be the consequence of his rash­ness.

[Page 8]WITH what propriety can any one arrogate to himself the title of Physician, if he is ignorant of Ana­tomy? how shall he be able to discover the seat of a disease, or what chance has he of being in a condi­tion to remedy it? Nor is a superficial acquaintance with Anatomy sufficient for either Physician or Sur­geon. The latter, (that he may not mistake what is natural for a disease, and in attempting to relieve an imaginary evil, bring on a real one;) ought to know the smallest hollow or protuberance of a bone; which serve in many instances to direct him, how far he may operate with safety, as the situation of the nerves and blood vessels are often to be referred to them. It is requisite for a physician to search out every the least particular in the structure of all the internal parts, that he maybe in a condition to distinguish the nature of the disorder with which it is affected. As a skillful Pilot informs himself of the least bank of sand or shoal where he is to avoid navigating his ship; so every follower of medical pursuits should be intelligent in the minutiae of Anatomy, if he wishes to practice with ease to himself, and to the benefit of his patient.

THE Materia Medica and Botany may very properly be termed the natural history of medicine, as from these branches of science we derive our knowledge of that part of natural history, which more immediately [Page 9] relates to the health giving arts. How worthy of a Physician, a Philosopher or a Gentleman, is the knowledge of the different productions of na­ture taken in its full extent? I cannot too earnestly recommend this study to young men, to qualify them for every useful profession that is conversant about natural objects, and especially for the study of medicine. But it behoves me to speak more parti­cularly of medical natural history, if I may be allowed to adopt that term in the sense I have already used it; and first of Materia Mediea.

MATERIA MEDICA treats of the natural history, and medical virtues, of all those bodies which are employed in diet, or in medicine. It considers the changes they undergo when applied to the human body, either internally or externally; and the effects they pro­duce on the system.

IT is beyond contradiction an object of great im­portance, to both Physician and Surgeon, to be well acquainted with the Materia Medica, as it belongs to this to consider the nature of aliments, the choice of medicines, and a knowledge of their action in the vessels, and how they preserve or restore health.

PHYSIOLOGY, Pathology, Chymistry, the Materia Medica, and indeed the several branches of medi­cine lend a mutual aid to one another, in a greater or less degree.

[Page 10] BOTANY is a knowlege of the natural history of vegetables. It may therefore be considered as part of the Materia Medica, as far at least, as it is con­nected with the knowledge of medicine.

BY the Science of Botany we learn to methodize the vegetable part of the creation, and to range ve­getables in different classes, subdividing them into a variety of orders, genera, and species. Such a syste­matic, or botanic arrangement, as it is called, has taught us this general observation, that all plants of the same natural order have in a degree some com­mon virtue. Botany thus lessens the difficulties we must otherwise have been at in discovering their me­dical virtues. I need not therefore dwell on the im­portance of this study to a Physician and a Philosopher.

CHYMISTRY is either Philosophic, or Pharma­ceutic. The former considers the particular pro­perties of bodies, and explains their effects. It is distinguished from natural philosophy, as this latter is only conversant about the general properties of bodies.

PHARMACEUTIC CHYMISTRY, is that branch of philosphic Chymistry, which regards the particular properties of such bodies as are appropri­ated to medicine. It considers their virtues in a simple state, or those which they acquire by combination, [Page 11] and in this has a close connection with the Materia Medica.

THERE are indeed but few substances which are used as Medicines, simply and singly, in their natu­ral state; but they are commonly compounded by art. As it belongs to Pharmaceutic Chymistry to treat of the separation of the parts of medicinal substances from one another, and of the new properties arising from the composition or resolution of those bodies, it is manifest that this science is of essential use. What­ever skill we may boast in investigating the nature of a disease, or in understanding the structure of the body, yet without a knowledge of the instruments which are to be used, and of their properties and ac­tion upon the body, whereby they produce a change from sickness to health, other knowledge avails little in the cure of diseases.

THE THEORY of PHYSIC, more commonly termed Medical Institutions, comprehends under it, the important doctrines of Physiology and Pathology.

PHYSIOLOGY teaches the uses of the several parts in the human body, it treats of all the functi­ons, vital, animal, and natural, in a sound state. The illustrious Haller very properly denominates it anima­ted Anatomy.

[Page 12]IT is the application of natural philosophy to Ana­tomy, and may very well be defined A philosophic knowledge of the human body, or a science of all the conditions arising from the structure of its parts. It has a foundation both in Anatomy and Philosophy.—Anatomy, in a more limited view, considers the structure of the dead body only; but Physiology teaches the functions of the living body. The dis­tinction will be more easily apprehended from observ­ing, that a person may be a good practical Anato­mist, and yet be ignorant of Phyfsology; but it is impossible to be a good Physiologist, without be­ing an able Anatomist.

THE great stock of literature, as well as genius, which is requisite to become an adept in this science, and the important nature of the subject it treats of, point out its dignity and excellency.

AS every disease we labour under is a disorder of the vital, animal, or natural functions; a thorough acquaintance with these in their sound state is implied before we can pretend to understand their morbid affections, or how to remedy them.

PHYSIOLOGY gives us the clearest light in the cure of diseases, which is the grand object of all our inqui­ries in medicine. The study of it is most entertain­ing, and engages our closest attention from the many curious subjects with which it abounds.

[Page 13] PATHOLOGY treats of the vital, animal, and natu­ral functions in a morbid state, as Physiology does in a sound healthful condition. It traces out the seat of dis­eases, examines their causes and effects, shews their differences, explains their symptoms, and all the dif­ferent phoenomena, which result from various affect­tions of the system, it prognosticates the event, and indicates the general method of treatment. In short, it forms a system of precepts in the art of healing. It is the immediate guide to practice, and a very capital part of medical knowledge.

THE smallest reflection is sufficient to discover the intimate connection of Physiolgy and Pathology, and the subserviency of the former to the latter.

LET no man lay claim to the dignified title of Physician, who is not thoroughly conversant in the medical institutions. Without this know­ledge, we have no better right to take upon us the cure of diseases, than a blind man to judge of co­lours, or a deaf man of sounds.

THE PRAXIS, or PRACTICE OF MEDI­CINE, is immediately conversant about diseases them­selves, and treats in the most particular manner of their nature, specific difference, their causes and symptoms, and especially the method of curing them, or alleviating the severity of them when incurable.

[Page 14]THIS part therefore, as it teaches us the univer­sal application of the precepts derived from a just reasoning and accurate observations made upon diseases, is unquestionably to be accounted the fi­nishing part of Medicine.

As the end of our pursuits is more noble than the means, the importance and dignity of practice are therefore evident; and in as far as the knowledge of the other branches are not considered in subser­viency to this, they are merely speculative; though they must be allowed to afford a speculation of a very sublime nature.

MEDICAL Science is one whole, of which all the branches I have enumerated are the several parts. They may be considered as the links of a chain that have a mutual connection with one another. Ana­tomy, Materia Medica, Botany, Chymistry, and the Institutions, are only the ladder by which we are to mount up to practice, A general knowledge, at least, in each one of them, is useful to both Physici­an and Surgeon; particularly to the former, who in proportion as he is more intimately acquainted with them all, will become more skillful in the heal­ing science. For, although he confines himself to his proper province of prescribing for diseases, yet ought he to understand the principles of the entire art, and more especially he ought to be very con­versant [Page 15] in practice. Seeing the life and health of mankind is the object of medicine, ignorance of the practice is a grand defect in a Physician, and an un­pardonable crime, as attended with irreparable in­juries.

THE great extent of medical science, which com­prehends under it so many different branches, makes it impossible to learn it thoroughly without we fo­llow a certain order. Whilst we neglect this, all our ideas are but crude conceptions, a rope of sand, without any firm connection. Should the student, as chance or whim might direct, sometimes apply himself to one branch, sometimes to another; or read indiscriminately even the best authors on the differ­rent parts of Medicine; for want of method, all his knowledge would be superficial; though he might take as much pains as would suffice to make him eminently skillful, had he from the beginning pur­sued a well concerted plan. What progress could we make in Mathematics, if we did not proceed step by step, and in a certain order?

THE knowledge of the more intricate and hidden truths of science are to be developed by degrees. We can only arrive at them by the assistance of other more obvious truths, which they are connected with, and which lead us to them by a certain chain of facts, observations, and just deductions in a train [Page 16] of strict reasoning. Medical truths rise out of one another, in some measure, like the propositions of Euclid. If we did not understand the demonstration of the first, we should not be able to percieve the proof of the more intricate ones that follow, which can only be explained by means of them, as a certainty of the latter depends upon the evidence of the former. What would require years of study to gain a supper­ficial acquaintance with, if we followed no just plan, may be attained within as few months, by pursu­ing a regular system; so much does method con­tribute to facilitate our progress.

THE order which I would recommend in the study of Medicine is to begin with Anatomy; then what I have called medical natural History, viz. The Materia Medica and Botany; Chymistry should follow; the Institutes come next; and the Study of Practice should compleat the work.

THUS I have sketched out a general plan of stu­dying Medicine, which it will be of the highest­consequence for students to observe. It belongs to the teachers of the several branches, to give more minute directions with regard to the particular con­duct of each respective one. It will not be impro­per however to observe here, that young men ought to come well prepared for the study of Medicine by having their minds enriched with all the aid [Page 17] they can receive from the languages, and the liberal arts. Latin and Greek are very necessary to be known by a Physician. The latter contains the rich original treasures of ancient medical science, and of the first parents of the healing arts. The former contains all the wealth of more modern lite­rature. It is the vehicle of knowledge in which the learned men of every nation in Europe choose to convey their sentiments, and communicate their discoveries to the world. As it is the best known of the dead languages, it is chosen as the most proper one, by the various nations of Europe, for a medium of intercourse amongst the learned, that is equally attainable by every one of them Hence it be­comes indispensably necessary for a Physician, who is to derive his knowledge from so many different sources, to be well acquainted with Latin.

THE French language has prevailed much in Eu­rope. The advantages which we may reap from the writings of many eminent men, and of many learned societies, which are published in French, make the knowledge of this language very valuable also to a Physician.

AN acquaintance with Mathematics and natural Philosophy we cannot dispense with, since we can go but small lengths in natural or medical inquiries without their assistance. Happy are we to [Page 18] have all these taught in such perfection in this place. Destitute of that general knowledge which unveils to us the operations of nature, we cannot penetrate into those truths, that form the rules by which we ought to conduct ourselves, in the cure of diseases.

THERE is no art yet known which may not con­tribute somewhat to the improvement of Medicine; nor is there any one which requires more assistance than that of Physic from every other science. Let young men therefore, who would engage in the pur­suit of Medicine or Surgery, make use of all their industry, to possess themselves in good time of these acquisitions. They are necessary to facilitate a pro­gress in the healing arts; they embellish the under­standing, and give many peculiar advantages, unat­tainable without them.

So much being said of the nature of medical know­ledge, we are the better prepared to form a judg­ment on the subject proposed. Let us now take a general view of the state of Physic as hitherto prac­tised in America.

AND here we may congratulate ourselves, that in this, and some of the large neighbouring towns, we have a number of skillful physicians and expert surgeons, qualified by genius, education, and expe­rience, to take charge of the health of their fellow [Page 19] creatures. Under these it is the custom of medical students to enter as apprentices, in order to learn their practice, and get an acquaintance with their profession. This it must be allowed is a great ad­vantage; but if we add to it, a casual conversation sometimes with the most able masters whom they can have access to consult, an intercourse with one another, and a reciprocal communication of senti­ment and observation, together with reading what authors they can procure on the various subjects of which this science treats; these make the sum total of the best medical education in America. How lame and insufficient it is must appear to all who have the least intelligence in these matters; but will be seen more evidently, I imagine, as we examine it more nearly.

IF, as I before observed, it is necessary that a plan be marked out for directing Students, and that they should be taught a regular course of every distinct branch of Medicine; the infant state of the co­lonies, and the want of professed teachers, have hi­therto cloged medical pursuits in America with in­numerable obstacles.

NEVER yet has there offered a coalition of able men, who would undertake to give compleat and re­gular courses of Lectures on the different branches of Medicine; and such an extensive field it is, as re­quires the united efforts of several co-operating to­gether, [Page 20] to cultivate it with success. As well might a parent take upon himself the private tuition of his son, and to make him master of all the different lan­guages, arts, and sciences, which are generally deem­ed requisite, previous to his entering upon the high­er studies of Law, Physic and Divinity; as that a Physician, engaged in an extensive practice, should undertake to deliver to his apprentices, in a regu­lar manner, the precepts of his art in all its branches. This is as impracticable as it is unreasonable to ex­pect. In spite of himself and his inclination to qualify young men in the profession, they must of neces­sity be left, for the most part, more to their own ingenuity, and precarious application, than a good man could wish. These are difficulties which he would rejoice to have removed; but they are evils which have hitherto been without a remedy. The fatigue, the greatness of expence, and the want of leisure time, which physicians involved in business cannot command, are bars, which those most willing to perfect students cannot get over.

YOUNG men, who are limited to the present op­portunities of improvement in America, cannot en­ter upon the stage of action, but with unfavourable prospect, and they must unavoidably be in continual perplexities. For seldom can we hope to see those who from too great forwardness, or too narrow cir­cumstances, engage untimely in the practice of their profession, ever become more than servile imitators [Page 21] of others. They blindly pursue an uncertain tract, in which they must constantly wander, since it is so often obscured, and insufficient to conduct them any great length.

A contracted view of Medicine naturally confines a man to a very narrow circle, and limits him to a few partial indications in the cure of diseases. He soon gets through his little stock of knowledge; he repeats over and over his round of prescriptions, the same almost in every case; and, although he is conti­nually embarrassed, has the vanity to believe that, from the few maxims which he has adopted, he has within himself all the principles of medical know­ledge, and that he has exhausted all the resources of art. This is a notion subversive of all improvement. It flatters the imagination of the indolent, as it dis­penses with those toilsome labours which are necessary to the production of truth; and chains him down to a dangerous rotine of practice, unworthy the name of art.

THE industry of many centuries have already been employed to bring Physic to that degree of perfection at which it is now arrived. It will still require a long time to remove the obscurities which yet veil many parts of it. The application of many, amongst the greatest of men, has hitherto been in­insufficient to clear up all our doubts in medicine. How then can it be supposed that any one, untutor­ed in this art, can by his own natural abilities ever [Page 22] reach the bounds of what is already known in it? The great multiplicity of diseases, which beset the human race, present us with a field too vast and unknown for individuals to cultivate by them­selves. Their causes are frequently so latent, and the usual resources of art so often fail the most skill­ful, as to compel them to seek out new paths in which they may proceed.

FOR a man of the most finished genius to enter upon practice, having only that stock of knowledge with which his own observation and experience could supply him, unenlightened by those discoveries which others have made, would be an act of presumption. Had this been sufficient to conduct us to the summit of our art, it would have been in a state of perfection many ages ago.

OBSERVATION and physical experiments should blend their light to dissipate obscurity from medicine. This is the more needful, as nature commonly offers herself to our notice under a cloud, and requires that we should follow her steps with scrupulous atten­tion, watch all her motions, and trace her through every meander she makes, in order to discern clearly the tract she keeps in.^* ‘In a course of observation, the mind is but a mere spectator, and only sees external appearances. We must aid these with the light of Philosophy to unveil knowledge fully. We must dive into the bottom of things by repeated [Page 23] and different experiments, and, as is were, force nature to yield herself up to our inquiries.’

To accomplish this demands the brightest talents, a liberal education and great experience. We can­not suppose then that a Student of ordinary parts can, by any means of himself, acquire sufficient skill in medicine to take charge properly of the lives oi mankind.

THE almost infinite number of objects, to which he ought to be no stranger, pass before him so very slowly, that the longest life would offer to his con­templation but a very inconsiderable share of those, with which he may be made acquainted, in the se­veral branches of his profession, by the instruction of able masters. Shall a novice then hope, merely by his own abilities, to raise a superstructure com­parable to that already built up to his hands, which has exhausted the ingenuity and invention, and em­ployed the industry of some thousand years? Where will the most extensive practice be sufficient; and how comparitively little will the most enlarged fa­culties contribute, to furnish him with a ten thou­sandth part of the materials?

SHOULD we for a moment turn our eyes upon the man, who dares to enter upon the practice of Physic, without being properly initiated in the science, or instrucled in the important duties of the profession, he would soon present us with a melancholy prospect. If not past all feelings of humanity, what compuncti­ons of conscience, what remorse would not fill hit [Page 24] breast from practising at random and in the dark, not knowing whether his prescription might prove a wholesome remedy, or a destructive poison. To discover the nature of an uncommon disease, or to account for an unusual symptom, puzzles his in­vention.—Ignorant of every true principle, from which, by a just reasoning, he might be able to de­duce practical interrences, he knows not what prog­nostic to make, or what plan of treatment to ob­serve.—Unsteady and irresolute, he attempts a va­riety of means; such as either avail not, or such as heighten the danger of the disease, already too vio­lent.—He may thus interrupt the salutary attempts of nature, or, not knowing how to second them, tamper with the life of his patient, and idly waiting to see what nature herself is capable of doing, neglect to succour her, till it is too late, and the fatal hand of death is just closing the gloomy scene.—Wretched is the case of those whom chance, or misinformed judg­ment, shall throw into 1 is hands, to fall victims of his temerity.—Great is the havock which his ignorance spreads on every side, robbing the affectionate hus­band of his darling spouse, or ten­dering the ten­der wife a helpless widow;—increasing the number of orphans;—mercilessly depriving them of their parent's support;—bereaving the afflicted parents of their only comfort and hope, by the untimely death of their beloved infants, and laying whole families defolate. Remorseless foe to mankind! actuated by more than savage cruelty! hold, hold thy extermi­nating hand.—

[Page 25]GLAD should I be to moderate this too exact de­scription of the effects of ignorant and presumptuous practice; but what judgment can we pass on those, who have been scarcely instructed in the first elements of medical science, and yet force themselves into prac­tice, as if they meant to sport themselves with hu­man life, and human calamities?

A VERY judicious person ^‡ has remarked, that Medicine is the science concerning which people in common take upon them to reason most, without having the least notion.—Who, that has not made Mathematics his study, will presume to argue upon any of the difficult calculations of Algebra? But when medical subjects are the topic, doubtless we are masters of them without study. It must be con­fessed indeed, if we know much about medicine without being educated in it, that our ideas of it are truly innate.

ABSTRACT truth is at all times but a simple un­divided object, yet has ten thousand counterfeits to impose upon the unwary. No wonder that the impatient ardor of youth, who cannot brook delay, or always take the necessary time to distinguish truth from falsehood, aspiring to reach the top of science by a rapid flight, hurries them on in a too unguarded manner, when left to themselves, and thus [Page 26] precipitates them into the grossest errors. In me­dicine, as in other sciences, if they do not let out on sound principles, they pass on from error to error and multiply mistakes, unable to divest themselves of their first prejudices, which, being confirmed by habit, become a second nature.

Easy it is to fall into errors, hard to recover our­selves from them.

Facilis descensus Averni; sed revocare gradum, hoc opus, hic labor est. ^†

WITH greater case we may sow just principles in the beginning, than clear away the rank weeds of popular prejudices, after having had time to take deep root, and fix themselves firmly in the minds of students.

LET us now turn our views to the growing state of this and the neighbouring colonies; let us reflect on the great number of inhabitants scattered through such an extensive tract of country, who are desti­tute of all the aids of medical science. Let us con­sider further, that in many large towns and villages, there are a number of persons entrusted with the practice of medicine and surgery, who, being de­stitute of all means of acquiring the true principles of their profession, remain in a pitiful state of igno­rance in it, without any prospect or opportunity of correcting their errors, or greatly improving their [Page 27] knowledge. We cannot then remain untouched with sentiments of compassion; we cannot avoid feeling part of their distress, or forbear to wish that a remedy were found for so great a misfortune.

NOR is this so desirable an object quite beyond our reach. The institution of schools for teaching the several branches of the healing arts mus have a very great tendency to effect our wishes. To the full accomplishment of these nothing can contri­bute more powerfully, than the resolution the trustees of this seminary have taken, to counte­nance this scheme which I have had the honour of proposing; and their encouragement of such persons as, upon due information, they shall find qualified to take upon them the important offices of professors, in the various branches of Medicine.

ALTHOUGH we may not be in a condition to enter upon every part of this great undertaking immedi­ately, yet we may lay a foundation, which cannot fail of being built upon shortly by those who follow us. Time will perfect what is properly begun. What indeed is all science, but the accumulated ob­servations and discoveries of a succession of many people, framed into a system? When this is once accomplished, every individual may then avail himself of the labours of others, and [Page 28] thus arrive, in a compendious manner, at a competent knowledge of any art. This is happy for us, see­ing life is short, and the human mind necessarily oc­cupied with a great number of pursuits, very dif­ferent from our particular professions, which would not allow us otherwise to go any great lengths.

FROM the union of ingenious men the arts find resources, never to be met with in the la­bours of individuals, with whom the most useful truths are frequently buried; whilst societies form a kind of magazine, which collects together all the knowledge of the learned, and consecrates it to pub­lic utility. It establishes a commerce for the com­munity, which never perishes, but from age to age is a fruitful source of new acquifitions. ^† What ra­pid progress have we not sometimes seen in science from a conspiration of counsel and industry? Thus institutions, which have appeared inconsiderable at first, improve fast, and make hasty strides towards importance and grandure. This very Seminary, of late only a collection of private schools, although of so short a standing, has increased its reputation and usefulness, so far as to attract the notice of our mo­ther country; and already begins to flourish, beyond what could reasonably be expected in so short a time.

OF what consequence the united efforts of men learned in their profession are, the medical college [Page 29] of Edinburgh afford a remarkable instance. With­in the space of little more than forty years, the pre­sent professorships in Medicine were first formed. A few gentlemen from Scotland, then prosecuting their medical studies at Leyden, concerted a plan, and undertook, themselves, the important charge of instituting schools for teaching the various branches of Medicine. They met with countenance and sup­port from the patrons of the university, and by the great abilities, assiduity, and experience of those gentlemen, and some few of their successors, the re­putation of that place is raised to such a height, that, to their immortal honour, it already rivals, if not surpasses that of every other school of Physic in Europe. The names of Drummond, Dick, Clerk, Rutherford, Sinclair, Alston, Plummer, Monroe, Whytt, Cullen, Hope, Black, and some others, are now known wherever the knowledge of Physic is cultivated; and they are revered at home as parents and guardians of the healing arts. There is a great resort of medical students at the university of Edinburgh, as well from Great-Britain, Ireland, and the West-Indies, as from the Continents of Eu­rope and America. These bring to the university and city considerable advantages, and, in return, car­ry the fame of their learning and their professors to every quarter of the globe. Were it necessary I could easily enumerate many similiar instances of the [Page 30] improvement of science; but these, I imagine, will suffice for the present.

WHY should we be deterred from establishing like institutions of Medicine in this seminary, especially as so many circumstances conspire to invite and encourage so important an undertaking. I shall briefly enumerate the most interesting of them.

THE city of Philadelphia, adorned with a set of eminent practitioners, draws to it a great number of pupils, from the neighbouring parts, to learn the arts of Physic and Surgery. We may reasona­ably expect, that from the proposed institution, the number of students, who shali resort hither to par­take of these advantages, will be gradually aug­mented.

BESIDES men of great abilities and eminence, un­der whom they may see private practice, the hospital of this city is a great persuasive to determine a concourse of medical students to this place. It would be doubly useful to them, and increase their motive of repairing here, if they could be first pro­perly initiated in the principles of their profession, by regular courses of lectures duly delivered.

[Page 31]THIS noble charity, maintained by the donations of the benevolent at no small expence, supports a great number of sick of both sexes. As there are six physicians of the most unquestionable skill, inte­grity, and character, who, moved by the tender principles of humanity, have taken upon them the charge of attending the sick gratuitously; pupils here meet with such a number of cases, both chronic and acute, treated so judiciously, and so agreeable to the rules of art, as cannot fail very much to facilitate the knowledge of their profession.

IT is a most favourable circumstance to the un­dertaking which I have suggested, that of these six physicians, no less than five of them are trustees of this college. We may from hence, I think, safely infer, that every thing in their power may be hoped for, to second the medical institutions of the college, by uniting with them the advantages of the hospital, and thus rendering the education of youth in the healing arts as compleat as possible in this city; to which nothing can contribute more than a course of clinical practice and clinical lectures, by physici­ans of knowledge and experience.^*

[Page 32]THE flourishing state of literature in this college, and the perfection in which the languages, mathema­tics, and polite arts are taught here, are strong in­ducements for such young men as propose engaging in the study of Medicine, to enter the college. Be­cause when medical lectures are given under the pa­tronage of the trustees and faculty, at the same time that students are prosecuting other parts of learning, they will have greater advantages there than hitherto they have enjoyed. Thus the motives of repairing to Philadelphia for the study of Medicine and Surge­ry will multiply in proportion.

THIS city, so large, in such a thriving state, and so extremely beautiful and pleasant in its situation, as well as so nearly central to all the colonies on the continent, has peculiar advantages in respect to the resort of students; which added to the advantage of [Page 33] the college, hospital, and the different courses of lectures, could not fail of bringing a concourse of strangers to this place.

THE establishment of a medical library in this col­lege would prove another great benefit to students, and tend likewise to influence their resort hither. Proper means may possibly be suggested to accom­plish this, without any great additional charge to the college. The pupils that attend lectures, for whose advantage it is intend [...], may, upon being matricu­lated, afford each of them to contribute annually a small sum. This from a number of pupils, in a suc­cession of some years, would be of considerable ser­vice towards procuring a medical library. Perhaps the physicians of Philadelphia, touched with generous sentiments of regard for the rising generation, and the manifest advantages accruing to the college thereby, would spare some useful books, or contribute some­what as a foundation on which we might begin.

THE growth of this and the neighbouring colonies calls aloud for a medical institution. The increasing number of inhabitants demands an increase of those who exercise the profession of Medicine and Surgery, and ought to be an argument with all of us, who re­gard either the present or future advantages of the country, to attend seriously to the importance of the subject.

[Page 34]THE scheme of establishing medical lectures, which I now subject with all deference to your considerati­on, has been communicated to some very competent and unbiassed judges in England, who not only deem it practicable, but a laudable and useful enter­prize. The great and well known Dr. Fothergill, the justly celebrated Dr. Hunter, and the learned Dr. Watson, men distinguished for their superior know­ledge in literature, and particularly eminent in eve­ry thing which relates to medical science, have esteemed the improvement of such knowledge a­mongst us worthy of notice, and the institution of lectures in every branch of Medicine as deserving the patronage of all who wish well to arts and sci­ences. It would therefore argue great inattention in us to neglect the first opportunity that offers, of giving effect and stability to the design. Nor can we defer the execution of it at this time, without risquing the loss of the noble prospect which it af­fords, not easily to be retrieved.

IT is with the highest satisfaction I am informed from Dr. Shippen, junior, that in an address to the public as introductory to his first anatomical course, he proposed some hints of a plan for giving medi­cal lectures amongst us. But I do not learn that he recommended at all a collegiate undertaking of this kind. What led me to it was the obvious [Page 35] utility that would attend it, and the desire I had of presenting, as a tribute of gratitude to my al­ma mater, a full and enlarged plan for the institution of Medicine, in all its branches, in this seminary where I had part of my education, being amongst the first sons who shared in its public honours. I was further induced to it from a consideration, that pri­vate schemes of propagating knowledge are instable in their nature," and that the cultivation of useful learning can only be effectually promoted under those who are patrons of science, and under the au­thority and direction of men incorporated for the improvement of literature.

SHOULD the trustees of the college think proper to found a professorship in Anatomy, Dr. Shippen having been concerned already in teaching that branch of medical science is a circumstance favour­able to our wishes. Few here can be ignorant of the great opportunities he has had abroad of qualify­ing himself in Anatomy, and that he has already gi­ven three courses thereof in this city, and designs to enter upon a fourth course next Winter.

I PROPOSE in a few months to employ myself in giving a course of lectures on the Materia Medica, in which the pharmaceutic treatment of medicines, as well as their virtues, will be described, and the [Page 36] doctrines of the chymical properties of bodies will be considered, as far as it useful to give a general idea of Chymistry, and as is consistent with a course of the Materia Medica. Next year I design to attempt a course of lectures upon the Institutes or Theory of Medicine, which will be illustrated with practical observations. Possibly in a few years more, persons duly qualified may offer to undertake full and com­pleat courses of every branch of medicine; and a plan may be adopted, conformable to that which is followed in the, so justly celebrated, school of physic at Edinburgh.

THE regular distribution of literary honours upon the deserving is a step, which is neglected in no in­stitution that promises fair to be extensively useful. As it is sometimes prejudicial to attempt a scheme entirely out of our reach, so, on the other hand, a too contracted plan often mars the work altogether, or frustrates the great utility which might be derived from a more finished model. Let us aim then to distinguish worth with adequate rewards, and confer due honours on real merit. This will, render the institution compleat, and give all possible encouragement to pupils.

As you have hitherto been so careful not to pro­stitute the honours of this seminary on any occasion [Page 37] by conferring them on the undeserving; and have made degrees in arts not an unmeaning title, but an honourable badge of distinction, you have given solid reputation to those who have been educated here. You have thus conducted them with ecclat to the study of the learned professions, or ushered them into other useful spheres of life with lustre and ad­vantage. The same regard being had to the higher degrees of literature would increase these good ef­fects. In a short time, every person would be ashamed to think of pracrising physic, who had not industr­ously cultivated the best opportunities of instruction. He would otherwise be marked out by every in­telligent man, as one who had never been properly initiated in his profession, and, consequently, as un­equal to the task which he had presumptuously engaged in.

IF the several parts of the design, which I have pointed out as practicable to execute, meet with that attention which they seem to merit, it is not to be doubted that, in a short time, medicine will put on the form of a regular science, and be successfully cultivated in the College. And supposing we are not able to meet with gentlemen already in circum­stances to engage in every part of the work, we may however hope that a laudable ambition, senti­ments of honour, and the interest of the public weal will prompt some of the rising students, a­mong [Page 38] ourselves, of more than ordinary talents; to cultivate with the utmost application the particular branches of medicine, to which they find their genius more especially point. It is to be hoped that they will avail themselves of every opportunity of improvement by going abroad, and on their re­turn, transplant hither, to the great emolument of the community, every different branch of knowledge relative to their profession. Is it not probable that such a plan as this laid before them will open the views, spur on the ambition, and allure the indus­try of students, so that we may hope to see, in some years, a number of gentlemen, natives of America., qualified to fill the most difficult and important parts of their profession, with usefulnefs and applause?

IT may perhaps be objected, that the colonies are yet in so infant a state that any attempt to establish medical schools is premature. It may be imagined, that it will prevent many from going abroad, to ob­tain a more compleat education. Let it be consider­ed, that every one, whose circumstances allow of this, will have a plan before them, and every incite­ment to render their education as perfect as pos­sible, Many who are not in a condition to support the expence of being educated abroad, by being instructed here in the first elements of their profes­sion, and informed what further remains to be done, have it in their power to finish their studies abroad [Page 39] afterwards with advantage. This class perhaps in­cludes the greatest part of medical students.

THE saving of money may be thought more neces­sary at this juncture, when the check which our com­merce has received makes it so scarce amongst us.

SOME there are indeed, and not a few, who can­not by any means afford the expence of crossing the Atlantic, to prosecute their studies abroad. The proposed institution will therefore prove highly be­neficial to every class of students in Medicine.

THERE is a difficulty indeed in the way of the un­dertaking of great weight, which it were to be wished could be surmounted; I mean in case all the different branches of medicine should be blended in the prac­tice of any professor. This evil would call aloud for a remedy. The love of humanity prompts every ingenious man, engaged in that part of medical pur­suits which he likes best, to prosecute it with assidui­ty and constancy. The bounds of life are the only limits to his industry. He devotes himself entirely to a toilsome study, but which ceases to appear so to him, when the interefts of humanity are the fruits of his labours. There are men fo intent upon im­proving favourite studies, that a labour of very many years is but a constant exercise of the eyes and hands, by which the science in general is greatly [Page 40] enriched, whilst they themselves remain in a shame­ful indigence and obscurity, neglected by those to whom their labours prove so beneficial. ^†

WHILST Medicine from the greatness of its object, the preservation of the species, is one of the most useful subjects of knowledge to a state, and at the same time one of the most extensive and difficult; we just regret that the very different employment of Physician, Surgeon, and Apothecary, should be p [...]iscuously followed by any one man, however [...]at his abilities. They certainly require very differ­ent talents. The infant state of a place, is some­times used as an argument, not in support, but as an apology for such measures. The longer we follow any faulty custom, the more difficult we find the task to break through the shackles of it, even when it enslaves us to our greatest detriment.

EVERY mechanic art, and almost every employ­ment in life, serve as instructive lessons to the prac­ticioners of Medicine. The construction of a watch, the building of a house, may the making of a pin, are striking examples of the truth of this assertion. In each of them a number of different artists are employ­ed, who confining themselves every one to his own branch of business, the whole work is more quickly finished, and more highly improved. The length, to which human skill may arrive, when thus pro­perly [Page 41] directed is amazing. Why then should we continue to follow such a variety of different occu­pations as are generally crouded together in the prac­tice of the healing art? The mutual interest of pa­tient and practitioner seem to require a different pro­cedure. The chief argument alledged for it, viz. that it is less expensive, is altogether fallacious, and, un­less I am much out in my conjectures, it will be found a very difficult task to prove the assertion. But granting it to be truely so, yet when life is the object at stake, a notion of cheapening health, and a disparagement of the practitioners skill, argue a sordid mind, and will, in the end, always discover a most mistaken plan of oeconomy.

IF Physic, Surgery, and Pharmacy were in different hands, practitioners would then enjoy much more satisfaction in practice. They would commonly be less burdened with an over hurry of business, and have an opportunity of studying the cases of the sick at more leisure. Would not this tend to the more speedy relief of diseases and the perfection of medical science, as every Physician would have more time by study, observation, and experience united, to cultivate that knowledge which is the only foundation of practice? "This knowledge, sought out by Philosophy, drawn from nature and the operation of Medicines, and founded upon the causes of our complaints, upon observations of their signs and upon die laws of the animal oeconomy, form [Page 42] the true Theory, without which, there is neither art nor method in the treatment of diseases. But how great is the force of prejudice, that prac­titioners, who affect a seducing kind of sim­plicity, should look upon those persons with disdain, who divide their application between study and prac­tice; they inspire a contempt for Theory, where­by they impose on the public who are no judges of its usefulness, Thus the most gross igno­rance finds, in credulity, a too sure means of decry­ing that knowledge which can alone direct our steps with certainty. Ought we then to endeavour to render the art compleat, by attending only to the progress of that experience which is acquired by practice, which frequently begets so much vanity and seduces the vulgar?" ^* Let us rather commend those who would be afraid of making no further ad­vance in the healing arts, if they were compelled to abandon study and to give themselves up wholly to practice; and who examine themselves every year, to know what progress they have made in die know­ledge of diseases, The great BOERHAAVE, whose [Page 43] example is worthy of imitation, laid it down to him­self, as an inviolable law, to divide his time between study and practice.

WHERE abilities and the love of a profession unite, there is the furest presage of success. But unhappy is the Physician, who has a soul turned to philosophi­cal inquiries, who loves to search into the causes, and investigate the phoenomena of diseases; and yet is at the same time diverted from these useful researches, by other occupations to which he has an aversion. How disagreeable! how cruel a case is it to be forced, incompliance with cu [...]om, to stifle the tender feelings of humanity; to take the knife into his unsteady hand; and in spite of reluctant nature within him, to be obliged to perform some painful and tedious operation on the suffering pa­tient! better consigned to one whose inclination, experience, and address, qualify him for the irksome, but needful task!

ON the other hand, a spirit of intrepidity and a particular turn of mind carry many beyond the horrors which get the better of others. Fired at the same time with a like love of humanity, and filled with desires of relieving the calamities to which external violence, and innumerable ac­cidents both from within and from without sub­ject our lot, they apply themselves with the most laudable zeal and assiduity, to improve that essential [Page 44] part of the healing art which is capable of giving effectual aid by the painful, but wholesome severity of manual operation.

TO render any person dextrous in the operations of Surgery, however intrepid he may naturally be, it is necessary that he should practise them often, and devote himself to them. This is inconsistent with the occupation of a Physician involved in a multi­plicity of business, and requiring leisure to study the cases of his patients, who linger under a complica­tion of evils widely different.

IT is to lovers of humanity like these, so different­ly occupied, that some owe the movement of their limbs, others the mitigation of obstinate diseases, and others the prolongation and pleasure of their lives.

THE business of Pharmacy is entirely different from either. Free from the cares of both, the Apothecary is to prepare and compound medicines as the Physici­an shall direct. Altogether engaged in this, by length of time he attains to that nicety of skill therein, which he never could have arrived at, were his at­tention distracted by a great variety of other subjects.

THE wisdom of ages approved by experience, the mstd certain test of knowledge, has taught us the necessity and utility of appointing different persons for these so different employments, and accordingly, we find them prosecuted separately in every wise and [Page 45] polished country, to the great advantage of each, and to the unspeakable emolument of the community! Indeed the benefits which these preservers of the human race, improving each his profession apart, have shed abroad in the world, somewhat resemble the great blessings of nature, the light and air; they are so common we all enjoy them, and, for the most part, without appearing sensible of their unspeak­able value.

I appeal to the common sense of mankind. The common sense of mankind, duly informed, gives its verdict against a promiscuous profession of different occupations. When a country has made some advances in other arts, and begins to flourish in knowledge, perhaps not without some luxury, it is high time that medical science should be practised with regularity. It would be unpardona­ble in the professors to let it remain at a stand, as if they had already attained the summit of human wisdom. This would curb every laudable attempt to improve polite literature amongst the rising generation. In general, languid is the prosecution of study, when there is but little prospect of seeing our labour crowned with success.

LET us now consider in a brief manner the ad­vantages we may hope for from the execution of our design. These are greater, and more in number, than strike our notice at once. We shall first con­sider [Page 46] the benefits which the STUDENTS of MEDI­CINE will derive from it.

IN a place so remote as Philadelphia from every school of Physic, we cannot expect a very early in­intelligence of all the medical discoveries and im­provements which are made in Europe. In esta­blishing medical colleges, the professors of each branch will find it incumbent on them to keep up a correspondence with the learned abroad. They will thus get speedy accounts of every thing new which may relate to their particular provinces. By improve­ing this knowledge, they can diffuse it amongst their pupils, and, by their means, more readily propagate it through every part of the country.

THAT this will be of the greatest utility is manifest, if we rely on the authority of the most celebrated academicians. They strongly recommend "to let none of those discoveries escape us, which are daily brought to light by the labours of masters in the art. Without this care, say they, the most consummate practitioner, within the space of twenty years, will be ignorant of those truths which are then familiar to novices: the labours of others will thus become a source of labours to himself, and, without new study, his knowledge will decay into ignorance. Thus the celebrated practitioners in the time of Harvey, content with the knowledge which they had acquired [Page 47] from their predecessors, shut their eyes against the light which this great man presented to them. They had made a long career in the exercise of their art, without knowing the circulation of the blood, which exposed so many errors in the books of the ancients, and so many false steps in their proceedings; whilst Novices, enlightned by this discovery, with reason despised these haughty practitioners who grew old in their errors."^*

STUDENTS are apt to be disgusted with any art, when, at their first entrance upon it, they find it be­set with difficulties which to them appear unsur­mountable; but when these begin to clear up, their eager pursuit of knowledge increases daily with growing pleasure. A regular course of instruction prompts them to an eager pursuit of learning: it sheds forth conviction upon the mind, and improves the confidence of the diligent; a confidence founded [Page 48] on the just principles of demonstration and reason. It is very certain that oral instructions and ocular illustra­tions render science easier, are more convincing, and make a more durable impression than the best wrote treatises.

A course of reading and observation is not suf­ficient, without other instruction, to qualify young men for practice; since many of the books of me­dicine are full of obscurity, or crouded with ab­surdities, which puzzle the unexperienced reader, and often lead young minds astray.

As the most precious metals in a state of ore are mixed with dross, so the choice truths of Medicine are frequently blended with a heap of rubbish. How va­luable and necessary is an experienced professor who knows how to clear this away; to present those truths simple and pure from mixture; to trace them out under the various appearances they put on at differ­ent times, and to discover to students the clue of rea­soning which they ought to pursue, in winding through a labyrinth of obscurity, before they can ar­rive at a clear knowledge of the more difficult parts of their profession! That is to teach them how to philosophize justly in medicine.

THE greatest genius left to itself is like the earth, when destitute of the sun, incapable of bringing its productions to a perfect maturity. A course of re­gular [Page 49] instruction is to the mind like the rays of light darting through the obscurity of Chaos. It dis­pells the clouds that envelope the understanding, and enables the diligent student to penetrate into the secret recesses of nature. Thus prepared, he is in a situation to enrich himself with those treasures of knowledge which the observers of nature have heaped together for many ages. He has a torch put into his hand to light him to the true science of curing diseases.

As the practice of teaching is requisite, in or­der to be able to explain the difficulties of any science, and render the communication of its pre­cepts familiar to others, it is necessary that persons should devote their time very much to it. This can only be done to good purpose, so that stu­dents may reap ample advantages therefrom, by means of instituting public professorships.

THE business of a Professor is to place before students in a full light, at their first entrance upon any study, the true object of that study, and to ascertain their proper pursuit. In performing this, he first ex­plains to them the terms of art, and renders the lan­guage and ideas thereof familiar. He afterwards di­rects them to what is the most proper course of study, and to the best authors to be consulted on the subjects of which he treats. He points out the mistakes which any of them may have run into, and puts them upon [Page 50] their guard against such errors as are apt to mislead students. He supplies the defects of those authors, And mentions what new light the latest disquisiti­ons and discoveries have thrown upon every subject. He thus points out the road which leads to science, and prevents the young votary from running into a maze of doubts. He confirms his steps, smooths the rugged path he has to tread, assists him in climbing the steep ascent, and, before dismission, informs him how he is to conduct himself, in order to reach at length to the summit of his profession. Having a plan before him, a fixed end in view, and the means of attaining it within his reach, the student, impel­ed on with irresistable ardor, presses forward, eager to reach the goal of knowledge and the height of all medical attainments; and since he is so well instruct­ed in his career, has the apparent prospect of wished for success.

ANOTHER manifect advantage of public lectures is, that they bring together a number of stu­dents of the same class of knowledge. If the professor is a man who labours to improve the growing mind, he has it in his power to kindle an ambition in the breast of his pupils. An opportunity is put into his hands of examining the progress they make. They become acquainted, and sometimes form so­cieties under the eye and direction of their teachers and masters. They converse, and write discourses [Page 51] on such literary and medical debates as tend greatly to their mutual improvement.

As to what regards students themselves, these se­veral particulars I am persuaded are sufficient to convince every judicious person of the necessity of instituting, in this seminary, professorships in all the branches of the healing arts.

THE great advantage which may be expected to accrue to the SEMINARY itself, from the establishment of medical schools, is the advancement of the grand design of such a seminary in general, and the im­provement of some of the most useful branches of literature, that can embellish any seat of learning. If wisdom and profitable science are the glory, the ornament, the highest attainment of humane nature, and give the strongest evidence of a people being enriched with generous and refined sentiments, by which all polished nations are ambitious of being distinguished; then, most certainly, it becomes an object of the first consideration with us to determine, whether the cultivation and patronage of this science are worthy our most ardent pursuits, and whether we shall improve this opportunity which is now put into our hands for that purpose. It is needless to in­form you of what consequence it is to take the lead in a design fo interesting, so noble and important.

[Page 52]THE reputation of every sort of usefull learning must be of great benefit to a CITY, as it will draw, from all parts, persons that have a relish for litera­ture, who will always prefer a place of education, in which the greatest number of advantages coincide.

THE resort of strangers to any city for the cultiva­tion of science must give it proportionably a pre-emi­nence over others. An education in any place begets that place an interest, and as it were naturalizes stran­gers to it. In return for a dispensation of know­ledge, it collects a tribute of riches as well as of affect­tion from all quarters.

AMONGST the benefits to be derived to the PRO­VINCE from the establishment of medical schools, I cannot pass over a particular one, which ought to fire the ambition, and animate the industry of every student who has chosen to devote himself to the cul­tivation of the healing arts.

WE live on a wide extended continent of which but the smallest portion, even of the inhabited part, has yet been explored. The woods, the mountains, the rivers and bowels of the earth afford ample scope for the researches of the ingenious. In this respect an American student has some considerable advantages over those of Europe, viz. The most ample field lies before us for the improvement of natural history. The countries of Europe have been repeatedly traversed [Page 53] by numerous persons of the highest genius and learn­ing, intent upon making the strictest search into every thing which those countries afford; whence there is less hopes or chance for the students who come after them to make new discoveries. This part of the world may be looked upon as offering the richest mines of natural knowledge yet unriffled, sufficient to gratify the laudable thirst of glory in young in­quirers into nature. The discovery must greatly en­rich medical science, and perpetuate the glory of the authors to latest time.

HOW many plants are there, natives of this soil, possessed of peculiar virtues? how many fossils to enrich the cabinets of the curious? how many na­tural substances, objects of new trade and commerce to supply materials for various arts, as well as to en­large the bounds of Medicince? what means are so likely to bring them to our knowledge as medical researches and careful experiments, prosecuted by those instructed how to make them, and how to pro­fit themselves of the discovery? A spirit of inquiry into these things would be put on foot as the natu­ral tendency of such an institution, and prove the most likely mrans of bringing to light the know­ledge of many useful things, of which we yet remain ignorant, the more readily, as natural history is one of the most essential studies to prepare a person [Page 54] for prosecuting medicine with success, and one of the most distinguished ornaments of a physician and man of letters.

FROM all these different views, I presume none will deny the expediency, and necessty if I may so say, as well as the exceeding great benefits of the proposed institution to this seminary, city and pro­vince. Nor does the utility of it stop here. We may not only hope to profit ourselves, but, in very many instances, contribute hereby to the advantage of the COLONIES, the vicinity and connections of which with ours might encourage many students to resort hither. Thus the reputation and influence of this in­stitution, becoming at length more universal, might extend themselves as from a center, and include distant places within the circle of its usefulnefs.

FOR a few moments, suffer me here to bespeak the attention of THE STUDENTS OF MEDICINE.

HAVING now kid before you an obje6t worthy of your most earnest regard; the nature of the studies in which you are to engage; their extent, difficulty, importance and dignity being now pointed out, and a plan suggested to you, whereby your labours may [Page 55] meet with a more certain success; consider well, Gentlemen, how much depends upon your own di­ligence.—Think how necessary it is to employ all your attention in order to accomplish so valuable an end.—To this end place before your eyes the illu­strious examples of great men, who, by pushing their researches into the bosom of nature, have extended the bounds of useful science. Tread in their steps, become indefatigable in the cultivation of medical literature, and be earnest to bring it to perfection. The rewards of the rich, the countenance of the great, and the justly merited esteem of the good and the vir­tuous, which outlasts the fleeting years of humane date, will not be wanting for your encouragement. You will be in a condition to practice the healing arts with skill and reputation, and to transmit your knowledge, and the benefits thereof, to a succession of others. What is a most pleasing reflection, thosse who have been distressed by irksome diseases, and relieved by your skill, will own themselves indebted to you for the life you have prolonged;—You will be ever remembered as the ornament and boast of your pro­fession, and be justly stiled guardians of the health of mankind.

THESE considerations ought to animate you in the noble pursuit, and determine you to persevere therein with unshaken firmness and constancy. Be [Page 56] not dispirited at the difficulties which present, or the obstacles you are to encounter. Let them serve ra­ther as a spur to your industry. They will not stand in the way of men who are determined to surmount all opposition in their course. Regard them as left by others for you to master. Was there no dif­ficulty remaining, you would have less scope for a genius of investigation; less honour in being barely followers of others. Both science and honour offer one fate to their votaries. They reward the cour­age of the brave and of the steady, and repell the faint hearted and irresolute. You have an ample field before you to cultivate. Inspired by a love of science, your diligent inquiry into natural causes and effects must produce discoveries; and these discove­ries prompt you with fresh alacrity to new researches; an employment as delightful and honourable as it is advantageous.

ORDER requires that I should now address myself in particular TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE COLLEGE.

To you HONOURED SIR, ^* and you GENTLEMEN who are trustees of this seminary, the respected patrons of literature, who alone can give force and stability to undertakings of such moment as this, I beg leave to return my warmest acknow­ledgements [Page 57] for the disposition you have shewn of encouraging every attempt to promote science in this plate; for your ready concurrence, with my proposal of instituting medical schools in this semi­nary; and for the honour you have conferred on me, in appointing me a professor of the Theory and Prac­tice of medicine. My gratitude cannot be manifested in a better manner, than in shewing the most scru­pulous regard to the improvement of medical learn­ing, and diligently prosecuting every measure which may be thought conducive to that end. I flatter myself nothing in my power shall be wanting to an­swer the great purposes of the institution.

THE learned Provost, vice Provost and faculty of the college have employed their unwearied care in­cultivating every branch of academical knowledge; and thus, with a success answerable to their wisdom and perseverance, have carried this seminary to a ve­ry high pitch of reputation. Their industry I shall set before me as an example worthy of imitation, and shall consult with them, in framing such rules as may be thought expedient for the better regulating of physical exercises, and fixing the medical schools on the most respectable footing. From their experi­enced judgement, and warm attachment to the interest of the college, I have room to hope for all the assistance they can yield me in carrying the de­sign into execution.

[Page 58]Being assured of this, it is yours to perfect the plan which I have briefly sketched out. Under your patronage we may hope that Medicine will put on the form of a regular science, and be cultivated with ardor and success; and that your influence will be employed to promote the several branches of it; to the establishment and perfection of which are annex­ed consequences, of the highest concern to the Ame­rican colonies in general, to this province, this city, and this seminary in particular. It belongs to you to collect the scattered powers that are necessary to be united, in an attempt so important; and to transplant hither some of the most noble and bene­ficial sciences that mankind are blessed with, the seeds of which, so opportunely sown, will certainly produce a luxuriant growth of the most profitable knowledge.

PERHAPS this Medical institution, the first of its kind in America, though small in its beginning, may receive a constant increase of strength, and an­nually exert new vigour. It may collect: a number of young persons, of more than ordinary abilities; and so improve their knowledge as to spread its reputation to distant parts. By sending these a­broad duly qualified, or by exciting an emula­tion amongst men of parts and literature, it may give birth to other useful institutions of a similar na­ture, or occasional rise, by its example, to nu­merous. [Page 59] societies of different kinds, calculated to spread the light of knowledge through the whole American continent, wherever inhabited.

SURE I am that you regard the rising youth as the growing hopes of the country. You ardently wish that they may become eminent, in every qualification which can render them an ornament, or a blessing to their fellow creatures. You are, no doubt, anxious to encourage a spirit of literature amongst them, and are attentive to procure them every advantage that may enable them to fill the higher offices of lite, and especially the learned professions, with ability and dignity. Nor do I imagine you will neglect any occasion, such as this which now offers, to answer these salutary purposes. Destitute of culture, the imagination of youth shoots wild and unprofitable; but, directed by art and improved by science, a na­tural genius is like a rich soil, the fruitful source of many benefits to a country.

WHILST the studies of youth are prosecuted un­der the encouragement and patronage of men dis­tinguished by their literature and worth, they have the highest motives that can animate the pursuits of a generous mind. They consider themselves as un­der the notice of the public, to which every ingeni­ous person labours to approve himself.

[Page 60]A LOVE of fame and a laudable ambition allure him with the most powerful charms. These passions have, in all ages, fired the souls of heroes, of patri­ots, of lovers of science, have made them renowned in war, eminent in government and peace, justly celebrated for the improvement of polite and useful knowledge. They have powerfully influenced the perfection of arts, the advancement of commerce and the prosperity of cities. They have heightened the character of particular people to such a degree, as to make them regarded by other countries with admiration and esteem. Such I hope will be the consequence of your patronizing Medical science in this place.

THE difficulties of executing the proposed plan are inferior, far inferior to the glory of being first in such an undertaking. What grand enterprize was ever accomplished without any difficulties?. If we have but resolution to master those which ob­struct our design, they will only serve to heighten the lustre of its atchievement. Seize then the op­portunity of executing a scheme so glorious in itself, and of such importance to this places as you have given a beginning to the task, I doubt not to see it fully perfected in due time.

As the interest of literature and the interest of this province are concerned in it, the undertaking will meet with assistance and support from every lover of [Page 61] science and every worthy citizen. They will unite their mutual aids to render the foundation of it solid and permanent. The good of the community, the welfare of our fellow creatures, and the common ties of humanity will suggest the most powerful arguments in favour of it, with every person of a pa­triotic generous disposition. When, by an early and well placed assistance, every one of us may contribute to save the lives of thousands; of thousands yet un­born; and, in some sense, give being to thousands more who shall spring from them; who does not feel himself warmly engaged in a design of such public utility?

THE conscious reflection of contributing to in­struct the rising generation, and to [...] them for public service, of cultivating the healing arts a­mongst us, and thus aswaging the calamities of di­sease, and relieving many miserable objects who labour under a load of poverty and sickness, cannot fail of giving an exalted pleasure to a benevolent mind. They experience it in the highest degree, who are most blessed with the refined sentiments of a tender and feeling humanity.

THE present AEra will be ever memorable in the annals of history, for the reputation of British valour, and the success and glory of the British arms, as well as distinguished by the reign of a King, the boast [Page 62] and joy of his people. Under his auspices, letters are cultivated, the arts flourish, and the sciences are protected with a paternal care. His regard for li­terature has been particularly extended to this semi­nary. Let us unite every power within us to ren­der ourselves worthy of such royal bounty, and multiply, all we can, the benefits which our gracious sovereign has intended we should reap from it, by the most diligent culture of every species useful knowledge. This will be a proof of the veneration we have for our monarch, who delights in the happiness and welfare of his subjects, the most distant of whom are near to him; and will testify how anxiously we desire to become, under his government, benefactors of mankind. The improvement of a science, useful as that of Medicine, adds lustre to a throne, an will perpetuate, to the latest posterity, the names of those who shall patronize and improve it.

OH! let it never be said in this city, of in this province, so happy in its climate, and its soil, where commerce has long flourished and plenty smiled, that science, the amiable daughter of liberty and sister of opulence, droops, her languid head, of follows behind with a slow unequal pace. I pro­nounce with confidence this shall not be the case; but, under your protection, every useful kind of learning shall here fix a favourite seat, and shine [Page 63] forth in meridian splendor. To accomplish which may every heart and every hand be firmly united,