50 EDITORIAL OBSERVATIONS. 
by its decision? If not, its labours will be all in 
vain. 
While we thus can point to two subjects that have 
obtained prominent notice, there are two others respecting 
which w T e cannot refrain from expressing no small degree of 
disappointment at their awakening no interest whatever 
amongst our members. The first in order is Mr. Raddall’s 
proposition to form “ Provincial Veterinary Medical 
Associations.” We thought, and still think, well of this, 
and expressed ourselves to that effect at the commencement 
of our duties as editors. We should rejoice to know that 
some one had, with all needed zeal, determined at least to 
make an attempt to carry this out. The second is, Mr. 
Varnell’s suggestion to institute a “Veterinary Protection 
Society.” It may, perhaps, surprise some of our readers, 
as we confess it has done ourselves, when they are informed 
that respecting this latter proposal we have never been 
favoured with a single line from any one. Have all drank of 
the Lethal stream that renders them oblivious to their common 
interests? Surely, in both of these propositions there w r as 
much that is suggestive, much worthy of consideration. 
Let us hope the coming year will arouse us from our slum- 
bers, and that, like giants refreshed with new 7 wine, we may 
buckle on our armour with renewed vigour to do battle in 
the general cause, and thus to aid in the onward march of 
our profession, remembering that 
“ Contemptu famee contemni virtutes.” 
As heretofore, w^e have appended concise reports of similar 
cases to those communicated to us for publication, or have 
given explanations in notes when asked to do so, hoping 
thereby to add somewhat, however little, to the worth of 
the contributions received. 
We much regret to have been obliged to withhold from 
insertion during the year several communications containing 
that which w T e considered was uncalled for. Personalities 
w T e would always fain avoid. Some, we know, love a con- 
troversial spirit, maintaining it to be productive of good to a 
