188 YORKSHIRE VETERINARY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 
it is the product of a high and noble nature. A body of 
veterinary surgeons of the present day, without a rallying 
point, are imbued with one idea, chiefly with reference to 
each other ; viz., a feeling of rivalry and antagonism. They 
view each other as opponents, and in no other light. Now, 
the tendencies of these societies are to change this state of 
feeling, to modify it, and if possible to entirely dissipate it; 
and in its stead to place a bond of sympathy, a brotherhood, 
which in its very nature has a tendency to produce kindly 
feelings and friendship; they involuntarily necessitate a 
better understanding, and give us an opportunity of forming 
a better knowledge of one another. We cannot all boast of 
having had a classical education ; but we endeavour, whilst 
in each other’s presence, to conduct ourselves as gentlemen, 
manifesting a becoming respect and amiability towards one 
another; this engenders kindness, and depend upon it has 
its effect on us in our conduct and demeanour towards each 
other beyond the precincts of this room. Veterinary sur¬ 
geons, as a rule, are noted for their civility, industry, and 
integrity, and let it not be said that veterinary surgeons 
become the detractors of their brethren in the profession. It 
has been well said by one of our ablest writers, that ‘man’s 
inhumanity to man, makes countless thousands mourn.’ 
Let it rather be said, f have faith in one another ; we may 
want friendship yet.’ You have, I doubt not, each of you, 
experienced at times, as I have, a feeling of overwhelming 
sorrow and sadness from circumstances with which you are 
at the moment contending. There is not one of us but is in 
the mill at one time or another. It may be from some 
serious and protracted cases doing badly, belonging to a 
fidgety and unreasonable proprietor; or it may be from a 
number of lame horses, caused by our own smiths, and the 
owner coming down upon us heavliy and harshly. Well, at 
such a moment as this, you happen to spy in the distance a 
fellow-member of the profession—one with whom you have 
frequently met at the society. At the first glance you dis¬ 
cern a cold, sharp, thoughtful countenance; it may be that 
very man is writhing under the same dejection of spirits, 
arising from the same cause as yourself. Well, just watch 
his countenance as he approaches and passes you; you per¬ 
ceive it to relax; it warms, it brightens up, it gladdens as 
you near each other, and by the time you meet it assumes a 
brilliant radiant smile; his eyes sparkle with pleasure, 
while he gives a frank, easy, honest wave of the hand, and 
a kindly, friendly nod of recognition, as he dashes past you. 
All this pleasantry is mutual, and, of course, you have 
