Page:The Hunterian Oration, delivered before the Royal College of Surgeons ... February 14, 1817 (IA b22009358).pdf/33

25 and chirurgical science was taught. There were also private theatres in various parts of the metropolis, unconnected with any hospital, where anatomical instruction was carried on by men of great worth and talents, by whose labours the general stock of knowledge was enlarged. Students thus qualified were enabled to practise their art with honour to themselves, and with advantage to society.

The arts and sciences, and literature in general, being now cultivated with an ardour hitherto unknown, the estimation in which the medical profession was held became proportionally greater. The well educated surgeon was sure of being amply rewarded by wealth, honour, and the grateful regard of an enlightened society. It was evident that the youth who could hereafter hope to shine

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