THE 
VETERINARIAN. 
VOL. XXX, 
No. 357. 
SEPTEMBER, 1857. 
Fourth Series, 
No. 33. 
Communications and Cases. 
ON THE SOUNDNESS AND WARRANTY OF 
HORSES. 
By Charles Dickens, M.R.C.Y.S., Kimbolton. 
A very interesting letter on the above subject appeared 
in your number for last November, from Mr. Hawthorn, 
which was succeeded in January of the present year by one 
of an excellent practical nature from Mr. Gregory, of Bideford. 
I have been somewhat disappointed, that these communi- 
cations have not, from the importance of the subject of which 
they treat, been commented on by some of your numerous 
readers; but in the absence of such, I have ventured to throw 
together a few observations. 
The first of these gentlemen is a notable example of one, 
who having retired from the profession, and now deservedly 
enjoying his “ otium cum dignitate ” is yet fond of devoting a 
portion of his leisure time in giving his juniors some of the 
results and experience of an active life. Mr Hawthorn is of 
opinion that the subject would be much advanced by an 
Association of veterinary surgeons who have had some years 
of experience, and if so none would be more eligible than 
himself to be of the number. 
I do not think he has been quite happy, however, in the 
title of his paper, “Too much Science / 5 because I am of 
opinion that “ practice with science ” tact, talent, and discretion, 
are never more needed in the veterinary surgeon than when 
engaged in the examination of horses, as not only his own 
reputation, but also a considerable portion of the hard cash 
of his client are at stake. 
I contend that it is his duty in the prosecution of this 
part of his professional avocation, to point out the least 
XXX. 
65 
