MEMOIR OF JOHN BARCLAY. 25 



with instances, numerous and diversified, where 

 similar functions are connected with quite different 

 organs, and similar organs with different functions, 

 from which he naturally deduces the fallacy of 

 phrenological theories. " Those who tell us," he 

 observes, * '^ that every prominent feature of our 

 character is indicated by some variety of the skull, 

 arising from modifications of the brain, seem neither 

 to reflect on the powerful operation of moral causes 

 nor on that powerful re-action of organs that so fre- 

 quently disturbs the functions of the brain, and, 

 when long continued, soon alters its structure. When 

 physiology is better understood, few will be deceived 

 by such theories and fancies ; " and he adds, with 

 that indignant scorn with which he always treated 

 the slightest approach to infidelity, " It will be found 

 equally hostile to the too easy credulity of ignorance, 

 the dogmas of error, and the overweening conceit of 

 the sceptic, who, with an intolerable degree of bigotry, 

 frequently talks of established laws, as if all the various 

 secrets of nature were unfolded to him, and he were 

 the confidant of the Sovereign of the Universe." 



Connected with comparative anatomy, the Doctor 

 devoted considerable attention to Veterinary medi- 

 cine, and to his exertions, we are informed, the pub- 

 lic is chiefly indebted for the establishment of the 

 Veterinary School, conducted by one of his pupils. 

 Professor Dick, under the especial patronage of the 

 Highland Society of Scotland, of which Barclay was 

 a distinguished member. 



* Introductory Lectures, page 168. 



