INTRODUCTORY ADDRESS. 
629 
once pupils within these walls, I would fain hope that our 
friends are pleased with revisiting, if I may be allowed the 
phrase, their scientific birthplace, their alma mater. 
On such occasions as this, it is impossible not to revert to 
many who are no longer amongst us, but whose works and 
examples are a valuable legacy to their successors. Already, 
though the college is hardly to be called an old institution, 
the muster-roll of the names of those who have presided in 
this theatre, and have been the instructors of previous gene- 
rations of pupils, begins to augment and shape itself into some- 
thing like a history. St. Bel, Morecroft, Coleman, Sewell, these 
have gone before us. Blaine, Youatt, Percivall, and many 
others, are also passed away ; but have left us the inherit- 
ance of their industry, and the fruits of their great attainments. 
It was not without great perseverance that any of these men 
founded the reputation which they have left behind them ; 
nor assuredly without inward satisfaction did they expend 
their lives and energies upon a profession which they felt to 
be identified with humanity, science, and the good of their 
country. As the interval lengthens which separates us from 
them, we begin to estimate their w r orth, and to pass a more 
impartial verdict upon their labours. I will not venture to 
say anything in detail which I might consider characteristic 
of those who have preceded me in this College. I will not 
amplify upon the comprehensive mind of Coleman, or the 
single-hearted dignity of Sewell ; but I will be content with 
the remark, that these names which are enshrined in our 
memories, owe their elevation to qualities which nature has 
sown broadcast among you, if you will only determine to 
cultivate them by consistency of conduct, steadiness, in- 
dustry, careful observation, rectitude of purpose, and the 
postponement of pleasure to duty : and although we may not 
occupy the same position they did, yet there is a place of 
honour and respect within the reach of every one of us. 
And now, gentlemen to work ! To-morrow 7 morning you 
must be w ith Professor Simonds in the trenches of peaceful 
knowledge and exploration, digging for the treasures W’hich 
only labour yields. It is yours to supply the casualties that 
time makes in our ranks : yours, to carry on another stage 
of that old and never-ending siege which w 7 e have to w r age 
on the one hand against ignorance, and on the other against 
suffering and disease. May w 7 e always present the imposing 
front of a truly united army ! May we all be enabled to 
sink personal in public considerations, and may the destinies 
of those who begin their career to day, eclipse the brightest 
hopes which any of us have ever entertained for the future. 
xxvtii. 81 
