MISCELLANEA. 
599 
discussion which might arise thereon would in all likeli- 
hood prove of more real benefit than if a successful one were 
brought before the meeting. He would recommend the 
members to relate all cases of importance, whether successful 
or not. He also suggested, as the subject for the next meet- 
ing, Soundness and Unsoundness in Horses. And he 
further remarked that, if possible, the members should agree 
as to what should constitute unsoundness in a horse when 
brought for examination ; as by that means a great deal of 
disputation might be avoided, our employers be more satis- 
fied with the opinion given, and the public have to acknow- 
ledge that doctors did not differ upon the point. 
He then proposed, and Mr. Moir seconded, a vote of 
thanks to Professor M‘Call for the able address he had de- 
livered; after which the meeting separated. 
Charles Moir, Hon. Secretary. 
To the Editors of the ‘ Veterinarian / 
MISCELLANEA. 
VALUE OE REFLECTION AFTER READING. 
One of our most popular authors has designated reflection 
after reading to be “ the couch of the soul ,” — it furnishes the 
mind somewhat with rest. He says : “ Just as a change 
of posture relieves the weariness of the body, a change of 
thoughts will prevent your spirits becoming languid. Sit 
down in a silent chamber, at eventide, throw the window up, 
and look at God’s bright stars, and count those eyes of heaven; 
or, if you like it better, pause in the noontide heat, and look 
down upon the busy crowd in the streets, and count the men 
like so many ants, upon the ant-hill of this world ; or if you 
care not to look about you, sit down and look within yourself, 
count the pulses of your own heart, and examine the motions 
of your own breast. At times, ’tis well to muse upon heaven; 
or if thou art a man who lovest to revel in the prophetic 
future, turn over the mystic page, and study the sacred visions 
recorded in the Book of Daniel, or the Book of Revelation. 
As thou dost enter these hallowed intricacies, and dost medi- 
tate upon these impressive symbols, thou wilt rise up from 
thy study mightily refreshed. You will find it like a couch 
to your mind. * 
“ Again, meditation is the machine in which the raw material 
of knowledge is converted to thg best uses. Let me compare 
it to a wine-press. By reading, and research, and study we 
gather the grapes ; but it is by meditation we press out the 
