VETERINARIAN. 
VOL. XIV, No. 157.] JANUARY 1841. [New Series, No. 97. 
ADVICE TO VETERINARY STUDENTS. 
By Mr. G. Baker, M.R.C.S. $ V.S. Reigate. 
Fingit equum tenera docilem cervice magister, 
Ire viam quam monstrat eques. 
Hor. Epis. ii, Lib i, G4. 
THE commencement of a new year is a period that strikes reflec- 
tion home to the most unthinking mind. It is, as it were, an isth- 
mus between the mighty continents of the past and the future. The 
former has been already traversed by all with differing aims, pur- 
suits, and results; the latter is an unknown country, in which the 
traveller can calculate circumstances only by observation, foresight, 
and previous experience : but he should so contemplate them in 
the past as to trust in them for the future, yet so trusting, to de- 
termine always to act resolutely upon motives, not of temporary 
expediency dictated by indolence or caprice, but upon those of 
prudence, foresight, and moderation. 
Not long preceding the new year there commenced another ses- 
sion at our Veterinary College, and with it an accession of young 
students just crossing the threshhold of their professional career. 
It has often appeared to me, that in very many instances the pre- 
liminary education of young men destined to pursue the veterinary 
profession is so circumscribed in its extent, that the attainment of 
scientific and general knowledge is not rated at its just value, as 
affording the firmest foundation on which to rest the professional 
character of a skilful practitioner. I may, therefore, be allowed to 
suggest a few hints to those young persons, not with the presump- 
tuous intention of directing them in a technical or scientific prac- 
tice, but merely to give them sound general ideas, which may 
render their views more liberal and their minds more generous, or 
arm them with some useful precautions. I would advise every 
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