Page:The Thruston speech on the progress of medicine 1880.djvu/24

20 superstition and ignorance which interfered with its practical good.

We see, then medicine, both considered as an art and as a true scientific study, has slowly evolved from the darkest shades of superstition and credulity.

We see the theories which at one time or other have possessed the minds of those who have been engaged in the practice of medicine overthrown, when viewed by that pure light which the investigation of disease alone can give.

And more than all we shall see medicine now studied with the view rather of anticipating disease or its results, and bringing to the help of its investigations that aid from science, which directly and indirectly contributes so largely to the ultimate success of such an undertaking.

Sciences which the student of medicine in the present day has innumerable opportunities of makmg himself acquainted with in this University, I might also add in this College, which to-day celebrates the memory of that founder, who of his substance contributed so munificently to our resources.