Ruschenberger.] lO-j [Nov. 0, 



professors is contingent upon the number ; and large classes, in 

 common estimation, vouch for the excellence of the school as 

 well as of the qualification of its graduates. 



The circumstances of medical teaching suggested that to im- 

 mediately prolong the course of study, thus augmenting the 

 expenses of the student and increase the requirements of gradu- 

 ation to what they should be, must be instantly followed by 

 great reduction of the classes, and consequently of the remun- 

 eration of the professors. 



The aspect of affairs was to them unpromising. Discontent 

 was prevalent. 



While matters were still in an uncertain state, Dr. Rogers, 

 without application, was elected, May 2, 187 7, Professor of Med- 

 ical Chemistry and Toxicology in the Jefferson Medical College, 

 a chair just vacated by resignation. He accepted the office and 

 resigned his position in the University, -which he had held during 

 a quarter of a century. The transfer added to his emolument 

 without increase of labor and relieved his anxiety. It was un- 

 derstood that several of his old colleagues expressed at that time 

 willingness to accept position elsewhere under like conditions. 



The Trustees managed affairs wisely. They established the 

 excellent scheme of medical education now in operation, which, 

 followed thoroughly by the student, places him be} r ond the 

 necessity of seeking further instruction after graduation in post- 

 graduate courses, which many to whom diplomas may have been 

 prematurely granted consider essential to properly qualify them 

 for general practice. Discontent has disappeared. The pro- 

 fessors receive annual salaries in place of fees from students. 

 The prosperity of the Medical Department of the University 

 seems to be assured. 



The reception of Dr. Rogers into the Jefferson Medical Col- 

 lege was cordially manifested at his lecture introductory to the 

 course of 1877-78. It was estimated that not less than 1200 

 physicians, students and others were crowded into the hall. At 

 the conclusion of the lecture a silver vase was presented to him 

 as a token of the respect felt for him by the great class of med- 

 ical students. 



In addition to his own work in the college he completed the 

 course of instruction on Materia Medica in the session of 1878, 



