Page:The Harveian oration, 1875 (IA b22314611).pdf/58

 priceless benefits, some by direct application, some through indirect and unexpected developments.

Even in the obscure future, Harvey might have discerned thus much, that through the long stride he had taken among the many steps that lead from ignorance to perfect knowledge, minds that might have continued to be busied and puzzled with the unsettled problem of the circulation, would be set free to engage in other and more profitable inquiries; that no one could henceforth devote himself to the study of any matter relating to the physiology of the human frame, but must own himself in some degree his debtor; that every physician every time he felt a pulse, would have a more intelligent appreciation of its indications, every surgeon who should stanch a hæmorrhage, or tie an artery, or perform an operation, would do it with a firmer hand, in consequence of his discovery of the circulation.

And these annual orations!—may we not venture to hope that in as far as, year by year, they faithfully portray Harvey, in his studious youth, busy manhood, and serene old age; they promote the objects he had in view, supplying with motive, example, and encouragement, all who are now