THE APPRENTICESHIP CLAUSE. 
643 
lege of Veterinary Surgeons have — have had from the very be- 
ginning — but a single object in view, and that is, the promotion of 
veterinary science and its professors. What they require of the 
pupil who presents himself before their Board for examination is, 
a certain amount of qualification; and if they have taken on them- 
selves to prescribe the way in which he shall obtain this qualifi- 
cation, they have but done so to ensure its attainment. Suppos- 
ing, therefore, that the schools so alter or amplify their curriculum 
of education that the Council become satisfied these objects are 
fulfilled, we apprehend that the apprenticeship clause would ad- 
mit of modification ; or that, in lieu of it, another might be framed, 
running to some such effect as follows : — That the candidate (for 
examination) shall bring satisfactory proof (in the form of certifi- 
cate) of his having been engaged in the acquirement of profes- 
sional knowledge for not less than THREE years, during two 
(sessional) of which he must have attended the lectures delivered 
at the Royal Veterinary College of London or at the Veterinary 
College of Edinburgh, or at such other school as may hereafter be 
sanctioned by the Charter- It being understood that one year out 
of the prescribed three (and that, advisedly, the first year) might 
(or must) be passed under the instruction of some member of the 
College in regular practice during that period. 
Most gratifying letters continue to reach us in approbation of 
the policy and measures adopted in the present crisis by our hard- 
working Council. The least return their country confreres can 
make them is a little encouragement ; and such letters as the one 
subjoined — kindly sent us per post by our excellent Secretary — 
contains the right sort of encouragement, and which is especially 
enhanced, coming, as it does, from a GOOD MAN AND TRUE ! 
* * * “ I am much pleased with the gallant manner in which the 
Council continue to conduct the struggle in which they are at 
present engaged on behalf of the profession. I admire their un- 
flinching firmness in adhering to the Charter. I would not have 
them give way one iota. Relying on their proved capacity, in- 
tegrity, and untiring energy, and also on the goodness of their 
