SPAVIN OR NOT] ANOTHER OPINION. 307 
so meanly of Mr. Gloag as to suppose that he was the author of 
“ Shoeing Smiths but I meant to imply that there was a connex- 
ion, and I think so still : however, let that pass. 
Before any of my letters have appeared in The VETERINARIAN, 
they were submitted to several calmer, older, and wiser heads than 
my own, — men whose integrity and professional knowledge I hold 
in the highest esteem ; and when such men did not see occasion 
to find fault on the score of their being “ unprovoked” or “ unde- 
served,” I do not think that I have much to fear in leaving the 
matter in the hands of the profession. 
I shall now conclude, and take this, as being the last, opportunity 
of thanking the readers of The Veterinarian for the patience 
with which they have borne with me during the last five years of my 
not unfre.quent appearance; but when such letters as those by 
“Shoeing Smiths,” and by “ J. Hely, 11th Hussars,” and such a 
note appended, I can only say, in your own words, that it is as 
“undeserved” as it is “unprovoked.” 
I know well that there are many who can do more for science 
than myself, but no one can feel more earnestly or have a greater 
desire for the advancement of my art. As long as I am in it I shall 
pursue the same object, though probably not again in print; at all 
events, not through the channel I have hitherto made use of : for 
when those who cannot subscribe to babbling dogma or bow down 
their heads to Baal are to be insulted with mean-spirited scurrility 
and low personal abuse in the place of argumentative proof, when 
such is called for and justly due, it is time to say farewell. 
May 3, 1850. 
SPAVIN OR NOT? ANOTHER OPINION. 
To the Editor of “ The Veterinarian .” 
Sir, — I AM strongly inclined to think that the lameness of 
Amylum’s pony is caused by his striking his fetlock with his other 
foot, thereby occasioning inflammation of the metacarpal nerve in 
its passage over the joint: he may do this, and yet leave no external 
mark, as I have found in very many instances. 
I should therefore recommend him to blister the inside of the 
fetlock, give a little rest, and afterwards ride him with a boot, such 
an one as will act as a cushion to ward off the blow. 
J. F. L. 
