LETTER TO DONNELLY 



251 



should, in dealing with them, be only too glad to be able to make 

 it clear that some of the defects and shortcomings inherent in 

 this (as in all systems) had been disguised, and that even the 

 most fractious of Examiners had said their say without let or 

 hindrance. 



It is the nature of the system which seems to me to demand 

 as a corrective incessant and severe watchfulness on the part 

 of the Examiners, and I see no harm if they a little overdo the 

 thing in this direction, for every sham they let through is an 

 encouragement to other shams and pot-teaching in general. 



And if the " great heart " of the people and its thick head 

 can't be got to appreciate honesty, why the sooner we shut up 

 the better. Ireland may be for the Irish, but science teaching 

 is not for the sake of science teachers. — Ever yours, 



T. H. Huxley. 



