Page:Memoirs of John Abernethy, F. R. S., with a view of his lectures, writings, and character (IA 39002086429751.med.yale.edu).pdf/22

XIV PREFACE. I may sometimes have been forgetful of the dignity of biographical memoir; but in the diffieulty of having to treat of subjeets whieh, however important, are not always of the most popular kind, I have been obliged sometimes to think of the “guid vetat ridentem.” In the very delicate task of diseussing subjeets relating to some of my eontemporaries, I have endeavoured simply to do Abernethy justice ; and beyond what is neeessary for that purpose, have avoided any quotations or other matter, ealeulated unneecssarily to revive or rekindle impressions whieh may as well he dismissed or forgotten. It may appear to some that in my remarks on the present state of professional affairs, I have been too free. I ean only say, that I have stated exaetly what I feel. I am earnestly desirous of seeing a better state of things, but I have no idea that we ean materially improve that whieh we are afraid to examine.

I have to express my warmest thanks to several gentlemen for the readiness with whieh they have contributed their assistanee; my �