Page:The advancement of science by experimental research - the Harveian oration, delivered at the Royal College of Physicians, June 27th, 1883 (IA b24869958).pdf/29

25 conferred the greatest benefit on the hu- man race.

Never was the value of experimental research more clearly demonstrated. The links in the chain of truth on this all important physiological question had been obtained by experiment, Harvey united. those links to which he had made such important additions, and proved beyond doubt the circulation of the blood. He shewed how the blood passed in a con- tinuous stream, and although the valves of the veins had been previously described by several older anatomists, as by Sylvius, Eustachius, and especially by Fabricius of Aquapendente, Harvey explained their true value and demonstrated their action. His work absorbed his mind and his energies, even whilst in his strange duties on the field of battle at Edge Hill, in October 1642; whilst in charge of the young Prince and of the Duke of York he was en- gaged in reading, till warned by cannon shot that he was in dangerous proximity to the scene of carnage.

Soon afterwards in the same year we hear