848 
PRACTICAL VETERINAIIV SCIENCE. 
On the other hand, those who do not happen to be blessed 
Avith a bright intellect, or to possess the advantages of a good 
education, avIio cannot so readily understand the lectures, or 
the technical terms used (and there are many such), two 
sessions is not sufficient to enable them to acquire a full 
knowledge of the principles of veterinary science, although 
they may have seen practice, or served an apprenticeship. 
Although I most emphatically maintain that it is quite 
right that a student should be made to know everything that 
is taught at college, still every experienced practitioner Avill 
bear me out when I say that, as he becomes fully engaged in 
general practice, much of Avhat is taught is not brought into 
requisition, consequently it soon falls into disuse, and is for¬ 
gotten. I question very much whether any one in private 
or general practice could get a living by his profession, much 
less accumulate a sufficiency for old age, if he conducted his 
business and adopted rigidly the system or method of treat¬ 
ment adopted at our colleges. He may be a skilful anatomist, 
even a good physiologist and chemist, and still not be able 
to earn his living by his profession. To these acquirements 
may be added industry and sobriety, and a high classical 
education, and still he may be far short of being a good and 
successful practitioner. 
It Avill now be seen that I propose that the student shall 
possess— 
1st. A good substantial English education. 
2ndly. A practical education, such as is acquired by an 
apprentice. 
8rdlv. A scientific or theoretical education. 
These are the three essentials to make a useful veterinary 
surgeon. They are three distinct branches of education. 
The first must be acquired at school. It cannot be acquired 
at veterinary establishments, nor at college. 
The second must be acquired at the practitioner’s establish¬ 
ment, and by Avorking amongst patients for several years. It 
cannot be acquired either at school or at college. 
The third must be acquired at the college. It cannot be 
acquired at school, nor at the practitioner’s establishment. 
All these are essentials, and must, of course, be insisted 
upon. 
If the Governors of our colleges and those in authority 
Avill only come to an understanding upon these points, and 
carry them out Avith fidelity, they Avill inaugurate a new era 
and confer a benefit upon Society, Avhich posterity Avill bless 
them for. Our profession may then expect .to occupy a 
higher station, and be more liighly appreciated, because it 
