C *59 3 
VIII. An Experimental Inquiry concerning Animal Impreg- 
nation. By John Haighton, M. D. Communicated by 
Maxwell Garthshore, M. D. F. R. S. 
Read February 2, 1797. 
DifFICILLIMUM aggredior laborem, et exitum vix promitto qui 
lectori satisfaciat. 
This was the sentiment of the justly celebrated Baron Hal- 
ler, when he first directed his attention to this subject, when 
he attempted to produce order and regularity out of chaos, 
and to show 
“ How the dim speck of entity, began 
“ T’ extend its recent form, and stretch to man.” 
Garth. 
The difficulties which discouraged so able a philosopher, are 
but ill calculated to inspire me with confidence ; but the dis- 
appointment from failure will be attended with this ’solacing 
reflection, that if I have miscarried, it is in a great under- 
taking. 
The multitude of physiologists who have sought for laurels 
in this field, can best bear witness to the difficulty of the pur- 
suit; and the penetrating genius of a Harvey, though adequate 
to a full exposition of the circulation of the blood, toils in vain 
in the mysterious researches of generation. His philosophic 
