30 



of mutual forbearance and good will. I trust the same spirit will 

 continue to animate you. 



Our profession, gentlemen, is the link that unites Science and 

 Philanthrophy. It is one of the strongest ligaments that binds 

 together the elements of society. It teaches the rich their depend- 

 ence, and elevates the poor to a sense of the innate dignity of their 

 nature. Its aim is to add to the comfort and length of human life. 



In a country, where population is not crowding on the means of 

 subsistence, and where every individual has the largest opportunity 

 of promoting his own happiness, and of perpetuating it in his pos- 

 terity, the medical profession, entirely philanthropic in its objects, 

 more intimately connected with the pursuits of science than the other 

 learned professions, and not overshadowed by an hereditary aristo- 

 cracy, enjoys pre-eminently a high social position, and for all legiti- 

 mate objects a commensurate influence. Of that profession in the 

 various states of the Union, you are the representatives here assem- 

 bled, to lay deep and broad the foundations of its future usefulness. 



Your proceedings will be regarded with deep interest both here 

 and in Europe. History is writing her page; let it be one on which 

 the profession everywhere, and in future time, will dwell with pride. 



Our Association stands forth without a parallel in its high pur- 

 poses, and in its means of accomplishing them. May it prove an 

 exemplar of similar organizations in our sister republics of the 

 Western hemisphere, and exhibit in a new form to our brethren in 

 Europe, the easy adaptation of our institutions to the great end of 

 promoting the happiness of mankind. 



On motion of Dr. Watson, the Vice Presidents, and the ex- Vice 

 President, lately in the chair, were invited to take seats on the plat- 

 form. 



Dr. F. West presented the following Resolution, which was unani- 

 mously adopted: 



Resolved, That the thanks of the Association be presented to the 

 late officers of the Association, for the able, faithful, and gentlemanly 

 manner in which they have performed their duties. 



Dr. Hays, from the Committee on Publication, presented a 

 Supplementary Report, with the following Resolutions, which were 

 adopted. 



Resolved, — 1st. That the assessment for the present year be three 

 dollars. 



2d. That voluntary contributions be invited. 



