Page:An Examination of Certain Charges - Alfred Stillé.djvu/11

 forget their relative situation, as impertinently to dictate to the Board of Trustees, the line of conduct proper for them to pursue. The simple fact of their reception by that most respectable and intelligent body, would be sufficient to prove, did the absence of other proof render such necessary, that intentions so preposterous and presumptiouspresumptuous [sic] were not contained in them. They state in distinct terms, the view which the majority of the class had taken of the subject, and by no possible construction that we can perceive, intimate an action of the class entrenching upon the authority of the Trustees. That such was the opinion of the Board itself, subsequent events clearly show.

On Thursday, Dec. 4th, a meeting was again held, at which a committee was appointed to receive signatures to the resolutions adopted the preceding evening, and transmit the same to the Board of Trustees. Between the appointment of this committee, and the consummation of their duty, nearly a week elapsed. It was during this time that some of those occurrences took place, which 'a Physician' denominates 'the riots,' and upon which so much stress is laid. These, we next in order proceed to examine. On Friday, Dec. 5th, a general desire existed, that the measures then pending should receive, if possible, an universal support. As portions of the class differed only in regard to the mode of action, it was hoped that something might be hit upon, calculated to produce harmony and union. Individuals among those of conflicting opinions consulted together, and a happy adjustment was confidently anticipated; but unfortunately, too late in their arrangements, they found, when the lecture of the afternoon concluded, three several persuasions existed, some conceiving that a meeting of the minority, some of the majority, and others of the class had been summoned. In the excitement and confusion caused by a late hour, the want of adaptation in the place, and the total misunderstanding, a disorder arose which the disinterested and kind interference of the lecturer on the 'Institutes' succeeded in a great measure in allaying, but not until after an affair of a strictly personal character, (and which we rejoice in stating has resulted without serious consequences,) unfortunately originated.

This meeting being so abruptly and inauspiciously terminated, another attempt was made on the ensuing day, Saturday Dec. 6th, to reconcile differences. On this occasion the class assembled in the Anatomical room, and the subject was discussed by those who had signed, as well as those who had not signed the resolutions. But the class adhered to their preceding measures. It was then on motion resolved, "That all who had affixed their signatures, be requested to withdraw," in order that the minority might in perfect quiet, and without molestation, interchange opinions, and adopt such measures as their wishes might suggest, or their interest seem to demand. This meeting however, dissolved without decisive action; some of the number immediately signed the resolutions, others remained neutral, while others were content to listen, with a small remnant of the class, to the lectures which the Professor still continued to deliver. The Committee feel it their duty as