INTRODUCTION. XXIX 



a large number of the most distinguished and active 

 men in their private capacity in Europe ; yet, col- 

 lectively, they* are inactive, and a century behind the 

 spirit of the age. Their Transactions are published 

 but twice a year, whilst a discovery in these days 

 has its run, and is supplanted by another discovery, 

 in half that time.* 



All the minor societies, also, which have split from 

 the great parent institution, for the advancement of 

 natural knowledge, partake of its inactive character, 

 and have made scarcely any attempt to elucidate the 

 nature of the present malady. 



In the year 1845 Commissioners were appointed 

 by Government to inquire into the present malady 

 existing in the potatoe plant ; and three able men, 

 Kane, Lindley, and Play fair, were selected to per- 

 form these duties. As far as their investigations went, 

 their recommendations were practical and generally 

 valuable. Their attention, however, at that time, 

 was properly concentrated on the best mode of pre- 

 serving the tuber, instead of ascertaining the cause 

 of the malady. 



The investigation into the nature of an universal 

 disease among organic bodies belongs especially to 

 the practical surgeon. He is investigating disease in 

 every hour of the day, and every day of his life. He 



* This year forms an exception to the general rule, as four parts 

 have been published at a cost exceeding 1000/. ; but no doubt a 

 more frequent and cheaper means of publication might be em- 

 ployed. 



