292 LIVERPOOL VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 
ence, and will doubtless assist us in attaining an equality with 
our Continental brethren, upon that particular branch of our 
science. The same gentleman, as co-editor of the Veterinarian , 
has periodically furnished us with original and valuable informa¬ 
tion, as well as translations from foreign journals. Indeed, were 
it not for Mr. Fleming's writings, and the reports of essays and 
discussions at the various Yeterinary Medical Associations, our 
monthly journal would fall exceedingly short of its mission in 
supplying the profession with valuable and practical information. 
It may be that I shall be considered impertinent, and display 
questionable taste in criticising the “ conduct” of the Veterinarian; 
but I am convinced that I only express the opinions of many 
practitioners who, like myself, are unscientific enough to prefer 
(if both cannot be given) receiving information on improved 
modes of treating cases, which I am daily called upon to attend, 
than to be made acquainted with the development of Bilharzia 
Hematobia, or read up some thirteen pages on the spontaneous 
movement in plants. 
During the past year death has been busy amongst our ranks, 
laying low alike young men full of worthy aspirations for future 
distinction in their profession as well as time-honoured veterans, 
who have witnessed the emergence of our science from infancy to 
adolescence. I deem it a privilege to have this opportunity of 
paying a tribute to the memory of one who has passed away from 
us. Professor Spooner, for eighteen years, was the official head 
of our profession, and rigorously did he uphold every tittle of its 
dignity. The fault of obstructing the progress of the profession 
has been laid to his charge; but, as I think, without just cause. 
By nature positive, and possessing no vestige of servility in his 
composition, he could not quetlv submit to the dogmatical opi¬ 
nions of men whose motives he did not appreciate. Thus he 
failed to see that change was synonymous with progress, and hence 
arose the accusation of obstructiveness. Those, however, who 
had the opportunity of pursuing their studies under his guidance, 
know full well that Charles Spooner stood second to none as an 
advocate for the advancement of the veterinary student in mind- 
culture and gentlemanly bearing. Let those to whom Charles 
Spooner's faults were apparent forget them in the grave, and 
unite with us in regret that a light has gone out in our lamp, 
and an ornament struck down from the edifice of our profession. 
To fill the vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr. Spooner, 
the Governors of the College have elected Professor Simonds as 
Principal. It would be unseemly for me to remark on that 
gentleman's capabilities for the high function he has been called 
upon to fulfil; but I may be permitted to say* that the belief 
which I, in common with many others, hopefully entertain for 
