Page:The Harveian oration on Harvey in ancient and modern medicine (electronic resource) (IA b20420080).pdf/22

10 their work and build upon their foundations, we appeal to the last infirmity of noble minds. We can imagine Dalton looking with placid satisfaction upon the superstructure which has been raised upon the atomic theory, scarcely less than the whole of analytical chemistry; we can imagine Newton as regard- ing with similar approval the marvellous illustrations of his law of gravity furnished by modern astronomy; and we can fancy Harvey as following the development of his discovery with an acquiescence which I fear he would not extend to the attitude of modern politi- cians with regard to his method. We can conceive Harvey as viewing with special regard those who have been most active in carrying on his work: Malpighi, Laennec, Hope, Williams, Corrigan, and I could add the names of some of our living Fellows were it not possible that they may be present to-day.

The immediate effects of Harvey's dis- covery were not beneficial to medicine, and were injurious to himself. His practice fell off mightily,' and practical medicine remained