104 
Original Communications, 
tained, that my feelings of respect for any of you would not 
be lessened, should you act on different principles from those 
which I have laid down. But permit me to add, that, in 
case you are in doubt as to the moral propriety of any par- 
ticular line of conduct, you are bound in prudence to abstain 
from pursuing t. In such a doubtful case, it cannot be im- 
moral to abstain ; while to take a contrary course, may cause 
you to lose your self-respect ; a loss which no worldly gains 
can possibly repair. 
In conclusion, gentlemen, allow me to remind you, that 
having honourably completed your professional studies in this 
College, you are about to enter upon the theatre of the world, 
as conductors of an important business, and as citizens. It 
is highly important that you should commence your career, 
animated with correct principles. It is on this account that 
it is incumbent on you to decide in the outset, on the course 
of professional conduct which it will be proper for you to 
pursue. 
But I cannot allow myself to close this address, without 
calling to your mind the debt of gratitude which you owe to 
this College. This you are bound to repay by all the means in 
your power, by striving to distinguish yourselves in your 
profession, and by giving the laudable objects of the College 
your warmest support. 1 would also recommend to you to 
exert your influence with your young friends who are study- 
ing pharmacy, not to be satisfied with receiving the instruc- 
tions of the College, but to imitate your example, and, by 
honourable proficiency, win its diploma. The College, on 
its part, feels interested in your success, and will protect 
your rights, and promote your welfare, as far as their in- 
fluence as a body may extend. For my colleague and my- 
self, I can only add, that we shall continue to feel, as hereto- 
fore, a lively interest in your advancement : and now, at the 
moment when we are to exchange the relation of preceptor 
and pupil, for that of fellow citizens of the same community 
and members of kindred professions, we offer you our gratu- 
lations on the honours you are about to receive, and beg you 
to accept our warmest wishes for your health and prosperity. 
