TESTIMONIAL TO PROFESSOR MORTON. 
269 
Association, he is also entitled to our gratitude. At its 
meetings much valuable information relative to his depart- 
ment has been made public, of which we now reap the 
advantage. The correct manner in which he edited the 
publication in connection with that society further com- 
mands our admiration. But it is needless to cite other 
illustrations. I could easily do so ; but I must not detain 
you any longer. The review I have taken of the Professor’s 
career is of necessity very imperfect; yet I think I have 
adduced sufficient to substantiate my assertion — that our 
honoured visitor merited this testimonial, not less for his 
services in the cause of the profession than for his personal 
kindness towards us. I will therefore at once proceed to 
acquit myself of the duty your kindness has imposed upon 
me. This beautiful vase bears the following appropriate 
inscription : — “ Presented, with other articles of vertu , by the 
Students of the Royal, Veterinary College, to W. J. T. 
MORTON, Esquire, Professor of Medical Chemistry and 
Materia Medica in that Institution, a Tribute of Esteem and 
Gratitude, equally in acknowledgment of his Assiduities 
as a Teacher and his kindness as a friend. Session 
1852-3.” To you, Professor Morton, I have the distinguished 
honour of conveying with this gift the verbal expression of the 
grateful feelings the students as a body entertain towards 
you ; and allow me, Sir, to congratulate you in having earned 
for yourself such a position in their esteem. In desiring your 
acceptance of this tribute of our regard, permit me to express 
my sincere wfish, — and in this also I know I am joined by 
all present, — that you may long live to occupy your present 
position ; and I trust that, when the infirmities naturally 
attendant upon senility disqualify you for the discharge of 
the obligations of a teacher, you may retire, wfith the con- 
sciousness of having fulfilled your every duty, to enjoy what, 
in your case, after the labours you have sustained, and the 
difficulties your diligence has overcome, may be emphatically 
designated dignified ease ! 
Mr. Morton spoke in reply nearly as follows : — Friends 
and Gentlemen, — I accept with unfeigned gratitude this 
proof of your esteem and kindness. With Shakespeare I 
am disposed to say, 
“ Now my bosom’s lord sits lightly on its throne 
but that I am altogether unable to give expression to the 
feelings with which it is pervaded. Thus your munificence 
has made me so poor that even in words I cannot thank you 
as I ought. I will not, however, withhold from you the fact 
xxvi. 36 
