Page:Transactions of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia (ser 03 vol 05).djvu/56

xlvi Barnes, whose celebrated Commentaries on the Scriptures were merely the expansion of the notes originally prepared for his Bible Class, Dr. Wood endeavored to utilize his writings also, by giving to the world what was primarily intended for a much narrower circle. Thus nothing really valuable was ever lost; his toilsome lucubrations received a permanent form; and by these, "he, being dead, yet speaketh."

In 1840, Dr. Wood, by the request of his medical brethren, prepared and read a biographical memoir, or eulogy, on the occasion of the death of Dr. Parrish. It was delivered in the anatomical theatre of the University, then situated in Ninth Street below Market; and was memorable both for the crowded audience, and for the presence of ladies for the first time in that locality. The subject was dear to his heart; and he paid a beautiful, chastened, and touching tribute to the memory of his preceptor and friend. In 1865, he discharged in this hall, at the instance of the College, the same office for his friend and companion, Dr. Bache; and now, amid the scenes so long associated with his presence, his own departure calls for regretful and loving commemoration.

Correspondence necessarily engrossed much of Dr. Wood's time, for it was frequently conducted with persons residing abroad, or in other States; and often related to matters of Pharmacy, etc., in which they were mutually concerned, either as individuals, or as members of committees. In one instance, his correspondent was a justly celebrated pharmaceutist in a neighboring city, and the question related to the preservation of certain articles combined according to a given formula. The confident assertion of the laboratory was controverted from the study, and the result demonstrated the remarkable sagacity and minute knowledge of its occupant. He was