1 • * / AN ADDKESS CLASS OF MEDICAL GRADUATES, llnfoersitg of tl)e 0tate oi Jtli00outi, DELIVERED AT THE PUBLIC COMMENCEMEMT, MSHtH 1, 1849, BY THOMAS LABOUR, M. D. Professor of Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children, in the University. — '* >* - * AN ADDRESS TO THE CLASS OF MEDICAL GRADUATES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, DELIVERED AT THE PUBLIC COMMENCEMENT, MARCH 1st, 1849. / ', BY THOMAS BARBOUR, M. D., Professor of Obstetrics and Diseases of Women^jdJMldr.fiauin the University, SAINT LOUIS: CHARLES AND HAMMOND, PRINTERS, CORNER MAIN AND OLIVE STREETS, 1849. CORRESPONDENCE, St. Louis, March 2d, 1849. Prof. Barboub, Dear Sir:—At a meeting of the Graduates of the Medical Department of the University of the State of Missouri, the undersigned were appointed a com- mittee to request of you, for publication, a copy of the able and appropriate Vale- dictory Address which you delivered before them last evening. Respectfully, A. KERNS, M. D. CHAS. H. HOLLIDAY, M. D. P. B. CHILES, M. D. J. C. FITZ, M. D. P. T. DIMMITT, M. D. Committee. fo Drs. A. Kbhxs, C. H. Homidat, P. B. Chiies, J. C. Fitz, and P. T. Dimmitt, Gentlemen:- In compliance with the wishes of the graduating class, so politely expressed through you, their committee, I with pleasure send you, for publication a copy of my Valedictory Address. ' You will please accept for yourselves and for those whom you represent the as- surance of my affectionate regard. ^ Your sincerely attached friend, 0 THOMAS BARBOUR. ADDRESS Graduates of the University of the State of Missouri: The objects for which you left your homes, to sojourn amongst strangers, have been fulfilled. The highest honors of our Institution have just been conferred upon you. You hold in. your hands the testimonials of our respect, esteem, and confidence in your ability to assume the weighty responsibilities of the medical profession. The relationship which we have so long sustained towards each other, is now dissolved; the period of your pupilage is ended, and you have been admitted as members of the same great ^and dignified fraternity to which we be- long. The pleasing duty has been devolved upon me, to congratulate you, in the name of the Faculty and Trustees of this Institution, on having obtained the envi- able distinction that has been just awarded you; to welcome you into the ranks of our profession; to extend to you the hand of fellowship; to offer, from the stores of our experience, some precepts for your future guidance—and then, to bid you, farewell! Gentlemen, we are about to part, and you soon will go forth as the representa- tives of our school, to enter on the practical duties of your profession ; and as you regard the dignity and character of your " Alma Mater," the solemn respon- sibilities that await you, and your future success in life— it becomes you to attend to the counsel which, in the spirit of kindness and true friendship, 1 desire to offer to you, as the parting admonitions of your preceptors, who will continue to feel for you the deepest solicitude. In entering upon the interesting field of labor that lies before you, it is proper that you should count the cost of your undertaking, and carefully estimate the dignity and responsibilities of your high calling. The healing art has been de- clared to be the most God-like of all human avocations. It has for its objects the alleviation of the sufferings, and the preservation of the health and life of our fellow-men. What nobler sentiment could animate a human heart, than a desire to relieve afflicted humanity! It was this instinctive impulse, implanted by a mer- ciful Creator, which first prompted man to relieve his fellow-man, and originated the beneficent profession to which you will be devoted. The duties of this pro- fession are co-incident with the sacred laws of religion and philanthropy, and the offspring of that noble principle of our nature, which impels us to love our neighbor as ourselves. The medical profession has ever been characterized by the benevolence and self-sacrificing spirit of its followers, who, true to their sacred trusts, have en- dured the loss of personal comfort, health, and repose, together with worldly ad- vantages, in their endeavors to disseminate good around them. Do not suppose 4 that you are about to enter on a campaign, which is to be easy and uninterruptedly prosperous; nor that your pathway is to be constantly strewed with fortune's flowers. There lies before you the prospect of a noble career of usefulness and honor; but remember that much toil, and many painful conflicts, must be endured, and that great energy, self-denial, and moral courage are indispensable for emi- nence or success. The goal to which, I trust, your ambition aspires, is perched on the loftiest summit of the mount that is before you; the way that conducts to it is difficult, and otten dreary, and be assured that those only will attain to it, who climb with resolution and vigor. Such then, gentlemen, is a brief view of the profession on which you are about to enter, and as you may be assured that it is one of which you may well be proud, affording scope for the exercise of your best faculties and affections, tending by its noble purposes to elevate you above all that is low and ignominious, and causing you to be the honored instruments of the greatest earthly good to your fellow-men, be encouraged to nerve yourselves for every trial that may await you, that you may never feel disposed to shrink from its duties and re- sponsibilities; but having begun a good work, and being prepared for every exi- gency, you may eagerly '' press forward toward the mark—for the prize of your high calling." Let me guard you against the too common and fatal error of young physicians— that when they have received from their Alma Mater the testimonial of their qualifications to practice the healing art, the period of their study is at an end. You have, indeed, but learnt the way of learning—you have but laid a good foun- dation for your future superstructure. You have but planted the good seed, from which the golden harvest can alone be reaped by careful nurture and cultivation. However great may be your talents—whatever the degree of your acquirements at the commencement of your professional career, unless you continue to study diligently, and observe closely, you will not only not keep pace with the advance- ment of medical science, but will, day by day, retrograde—and will soon be dis- tanced on the course by your more diligent and aspiring competitors. The most important part of your education remains to be attained, because the most valuable part of every man's knowledge is that which he acquires for himself, by cultivating the talent of careful observation and correct reasoning. Our science is progres- sive—it is limitless in extent. When many years have passed over your heads, and when your knowledge and experience have been greatly extended, you will still find that every day will develop some new truths, which will tend to dispel past errors, and establish the science on an immutable basis. The knowledge that we, at present, possess, is truly but the day-spring, the dawn of a far more glorious light, that is destined to " shine brighter and brighter until the perfect day." Remote ages of the world, will, doubtless, witness tri- umphs in our science of which we have now, not the faintest conceptions. Judging of the future from the past, may we not reasonably anticipate such a consummation of it, that there may be found an antidote for every poison__a balm for every wound—a specific remedy for every malady incident to man.' 5 In view of the progressive advancement of our science, you should be ambitious to make continual additions to the stores of knowledge you may have accumulated in early life. If you would be eminent in your profession, and successful in life, you must regard your present attainments but as the key to the vast store-houses of riches which may, by it, be opened for your enjoyment. The field that lies before you is a vast, and comparatively unexplored one. As yet, but little has been effected—much, very much, remains to be accomplished. How great, then; is the encouragement offered to young men of talent and assidu- ity, to devote themselves to its cultivation and improvement! Go forth, gentle- men, resolved to labor with energy and zeal, and be assured that great will be your rewards—an honorable distinction in society, success in life, and the grateful consciousness of doing good to your fellow-men. Never be contented to stand still in the back-ground of your profession—resting satisfied with the attainments which you have made—but rather aspire to press forward and be foremost in its ranks. The road that leads to distinction in our profession is rugged, steep, and often desolate; in attempting to pursue it you may sometimes be prompted to give up in despair, whilst the object of your desires may still be far off. But be encour- aged to press forward, and climb step by step, and sooner or later you will sur- mount every obstacle. As you ascend, new beauties will be continually developed, and charming prospects will be presented, that will serve to sustain your sinking spirits, as the unfolding beauties of a distant landscape cheer the weary traveler as he pursues his lonely way. Should you not be the fortunate possessors of what is usually called brilliant genius, do not despair of making any high attainments in your profession, and conclude that it would be vain for you to enter the arena of competition with others of supposed superior abilities. That you may know what your own pow* ers are, you must try to use them. Industry is necessary to their development, and the faculties of the mind are strengthened and improved by cultivation. Without proper culture and those circumstances which are calculated to call into active exercise the powers of the intellect, the most favored by nature may live and die in obscurity. Experience teaches the consoling truth that the best and most useful acquisitions that have ever been made in any department of science, have been the rewards of the labor and untiring perseverance of what may be called good intellects. The man of lofty genius is but too apt to depend upon the natural powers which, if uncultivated, as seldom yield good fruit as the neglected field, the soil of which, though rich, yields only weeds in exuberance. It becomes you to be unassuming in your pretensions, A distinguished medical writer has remarked, that " humility leads to the highest distinction, for it leads to self improvement. It is the only true foundation of a just self confidence." Armstrong observes that "genius, in a medical man, is the habit of patient observation." There is no professson in which there is a greater necessity that those engaged in it should cultivate the talent of observing, thinking, and rea- 6 soning for themselves, than it is in ours. Combine this talent with energy and activity, and no one can predicate at what point you may arrive. In regard to the course of study which you should pursue, I would remark that, if you wish to attain to eminence in the way of life which you have chosen, you should devote the most of your leisure time, in the early part of your pro- fessional career, to the study of medicine. There is no calling which requires a wider extent of knowledge for its proper exercise. The science of medicine con- templates man's physical, mental, and moral nature, in health and disease. It extends into exterior nature, and investigates all agents which have the power to cause, prevent, alleviate, or cure disease. It considers the mutual action and re- action of bodies, and the changes in nature, form or position, resulting therefrom; so far, at least, as those circumstances are connected with the functions of the human system, and the operation of exterior agencies on that system, or the mod- ification of such agencies by natural or artificial causes. Hence, anatomy, phy- siology, pathology, psychology, botany, chemistry, mineralogy, zoology, and natural philosophy, are but a portion of the sciences which contribute to form the complex science of medicine. It will be your first duty to understand these fully, if you would be truly scientific and skilful physicians. But the accomplished physician is expected to possess much general knowledge; and, as every kind of information is calculated to expand and.strengthen the intellect, and better qual- ify it for particular pursuits, every young professional man should devote some time to the cultivation of his mind. Such useful occupation will tend to prevent that melancholy, ennui, and miserable despondency, which are but too often experienced in the commencement of professional life, and which are calculated to depress the faculties of young men, and deprive them of that spirit and energy which are indispensable to success. If you have time for miscellaneous reading, I would earnestly advise you to eschew the trashy, light literature of the day, as it is not only insubstantial as aliment to the mind, but corrupting and demoralizing in its tendency. When we consider how short is life, and how very short is the portion of that life which is suitable for the proper cultivation of the mind, it must be admitted that it is un- wise to devote that time to the perusal of works which are but the creations of wild and fanciful imaginations, and but too often of evil and corrupt hearts. I would commend to you books which can impart useful information; such as will teach you the realities of the past and present ages—the histories of nations that have flourished and fallen—that now exist, especially of our own beloved coun- try—of men who have figured conspicuously on the stage of human action— and those which are calculated to qualify you for a higher state of existence. Above all vnould I urge you to study the Bible—Heaven's best gift to man— " a lamp to our feet, and a light to our path,"—to lead us through nature, up to nature's God. 7 " Most wond'roxis book! bright candle of the Lord ! ......! Star of eternity! the only star By which the bark of man conld navigate The sea of life, and gain the coast of bliss Securely ; only star which rose on Time, And, on its dark and troubled billows, still, As generation, drifting swiftly by, Succeeded generation, threw a ray Of Heaven's own light, and to the hills of God— • The eternal hills—pointed the sinner's eye." I would earnestly impress upon you the importance of eclectism in the study of medicine. Disdain to bow obsequiously before the unhallowed shrine of systems which have prevailed in every age of medical history; and which, founded not on an assemblage of well-ascertained facts, but chiefly on assumed principles, have sacrificed thousands of the human family, and greatly retarded the progress of medical science. Adopt no exclusive system, but impartially review all that have successively risen and fallen; and select from each that which is true, from the false, as you would precious gems from a mass of rubbish. The true object of eclectism is to analyze all systems, ancient and modern, and to separata those facts which have been deduced from undeniable premises, from false principles gratuitously assumed, and so associate them as to construct, by degrees, an im- perishable fabric, because based on the results of critical observation and expe- rience. Receive with caution the dicta of authorities, who, anxious to establish some favorite doctrine, are but too apt to see, as it were, with a microscopic eye, what the heart desires to see, and so pervert facts as to make them quadrate with their preconceived opinions. Apply the rigid test of the experimental method to the principles of every doctrine which your preceptors may have taught you, or which you may have learned in the books. It is only by a rigid and critical observation of the phenomena of disease, at the bed-side of the sick, and of the effects of treatment, that the truth or falsity of any system can be determined with precision. Nor should you confine your observation to the phenomena of disease during life; if you would obtain acom- prehensive knowledge of all of its elements, you should extend your investiga- tions to the dead body, in order to discover the nature, seat, extent, and effects of disease, and associate the pathological conditions with the groups of symptoms that may have been previously observed. The light that is evolved by this method of investigating disease, is of infinite value, and can alone rid our science of the uncertainty with which it has so long been stigmatized; and elevate it to its high- est possible perfection. If you desire to enlarge your knowledge, attain an enlightened experience, and increase the sphere of your usefulness in your profession, you should note down the results of your observations in every interesting and unusual case, relative to the prominent phenomena presented, and the course of treatment pursued. The faithful pursuance of such a plan will make you more accurate in the investigation of disease, and will furnish you a valuable resource of reference, which will 8 prove to be a rich treasure of instruction to you in after years., Besides you will thus be enabled to contribute to the profession important facts, which may throw additional light on diseases of obscurity, and tend to the elucidation of their na- ture, and the improvement of their treatment. Thus, all the knowledge that experience gives, instead of dying with its possessors, would be preserved; and medical science, in some degree, advanced. You should be ambitious to add somewhat to the existing stores of knowledge. Search for facts as you would for precious jewels; and, when you have found them, let them not be buried with you, but leave them recorded as memorials of your existence and useful- ness, and as an inheritance for those who will follow you. If, gentlemen, you thus act, when you come to the close of life you will enjoy the high gratification of knowing that you have not lived for yourselves alone, but that you have been useful to others. When you have finished your course, and you are about to take your departure, may the retrospect of your life be pleasing and satisfactory. May you be able to say, as did the illustrious Pott, when seized with his last illness: " My lamp is nearly extinguished—I hope it has burned for the benefit of others." The con-. sciousness of being useful must be a 6oarce of great comfort and happiness at every period of life. Usefulness is the surest foundation of success and inde- pendence. To ensure the confidence and permanent patronage of even your dearest and best friends, you must establish a reputation for knowledge, skill and usefulness in your profession. In entering on the arduous field of labor lhat lies before you, it is but a reason- able expectation that a prominent object with you will be the attainment of a com- petency for yourselves and families; but for the honor of your profession, do not make this the limit of your ambition. Especially would I urge you to repress in your hearts that love of lucre which would prompt you to prostitute your high and dignified calling, by making the knowledge you may possess of valuable means of cure, subservient to the accumulation of wealth, in the way of secret reme- dies. Should you hereafter become possessed of such knowledge, let a spirit of benevolence lead you to make it known to the world, and thus render yourselves benefactors of mankind. This is the spirit of philanthropy which has ever char- acterized the noble profession to which you aspire. Holding, as I do, the lamp of experience to direct you along the rugged path which you expect to pursue, it is my duty to apprise you that numerous difficul- ties lie before you, that you may be prepared to meet them in a proper spirit, and exert yourselves to overcome them. Most men are naturally prone to shrink from difficulties; to evade them, rather than endeavor to surmount them. This disposition is, but too often, the foundation of dissatisfaction and unhappiness in the ranks of our profession. Never yield to this disposition on small occasions- do not view the little mole hill with a microscopic eye, and magnify it into a lofty mountain, perhaps, to you, inaccessible. Start upon your professional journey, with a conviction that a fixed determination to attain an object, is the first and dost important step towards its attainment, and that there is no, greater source oi 9 earthly happiness, than that of surmounting difficulties, for nothing is better cal- culated to improve the intellectual faculties, capacitate for greater actions, and ex- tend the sphere of usefulness. In view of the many causes which tend, in the early part of professional life, to discourage and dissatisfy the young physician, I would urge you to cultivate 6uch a love for your profession, and resignation to the privations and sacrifices you may have to endure, that you may avoid the great evils incident to discontent with your calling. Your expectations of success—perhaps extravagant—may not soon be realized. Many young physicians, especially of fine talents and attainments, who generally are disposed to appreciate highly their own merit, are but too apt to suppose that to secure the confidence and patronage of the community in which they may set- tle, all that is necessary is to take an office, hang out a sign, and tender their ser- vices to the public. But alas! how many are doomed to endure for months, or even years, the mortification of disappointed hopes, which sometimes leads to an abandonment of the profession! Be prepared for this disappointment. You should expect that strangers will be very slow in committing to you their dearest interests—their health and lives. You must remember that professional reputation is slow in its growth, even under the most favorable circumstances. During your probationary state, you will sometimes be subject to ennui and discontent—evil spirits which would prompt you to give up the struggle in dispair. If you would dispel such feelings, you should, when not engaged in the active duties of your profession, make your offices your homes, where you should de- light to dwell, and enjoy the sweet companionship of books, from whicn you can derive those rich stores of knowledge which will eventually secure success. In the pursuance of this course, you may not so soon obtain business, as the active out-door, electioneering competitor, who aims to acquire popularitity by mingling with every crowd—on the streets, in the taverns, or store houses—to discuss the politics of the day, or the speculations that may be afloat; but be encouraged by the assurance that, most generally, the reputation and success of the latter—as rapid in its growth—is as ephemeral in duration as the mushroon; whilst that of the ardent and persevering follower of his profession, may be justly compared to the majestic oak, which, though slow in growth, is enduring in existence. The period of your probation is your seed time; be careful that you plant good seed, and then cultivate well your soil. Wait patiently for the increase. Sooner or later some genial showers will descend—germination and growth will begin and, in due time, you will reap a golden harvest. A fruitful source of discouragement and discontent with young physicians, is the preference which is often given, even in enlightened communities, to the igno- rant and unconscientious pretender in the profession, whilst true merit is disre- garded. The intelligent physician, who has spent years of painful toil and soli- citude in the acquisition of a thorough knowledge of his profession, cannot but be mortified when he beholds the presumptuous empiric supersede the truly scien- tific. But, gentlemen, you should not be discouraged on this account; if you 10 will pursue your profession with ardor and perseverance, you may feel assured that before your rising reputation, such competition will gradually pass away, "like the morning cloud and early dew." The young physician of sensitive mind, and kind and sympathetic heart, is often dispirited and discouraged, and inclined to abandon a profession of such fearful responsibility, when, after having watched with deep anxiety, and ex- hausted all the resources of his art, his patients sometimes sink under the ruthless power of death. However, painful such an event may be, it should only humble your pride, not lessen your confidence in the resources of our art. It is incident to man to die. It is the decree of him who made us, that we should return unto the dust from whence we sprang. However talented, skilful, or experienced the physician, or however devoted his attention, he cannot always ward off the arrow of the insatiate archer death. You should possess yourselves of all the important knowledge of your profession, and when cases are committed to your care, you should bestow all the attention that you can, and leave nothing undone; then, if all avail not, your consciences should be clear, and be assured that an enlightened community will never condemn you. Having briefly noticed some ol the most prominent causes of professional dis- content, I deem it proper to point out the most serious consequences to the profes- sion, and to society. The discontented physician ceases to take interest in his profession; the study of medicine becomes irksome to him; the responsibilities of the profession become hateful; he visits patients with reluctance; and instead of making a careful and thorough examination of the case, in order to the adoption of the most appropriate treatment, he spends his time in trivial conversation, or hurries from a Scene that is repugnant to his feelings. He pursues his profession from mercenary motives only; and hence, is ever complaining of its unpleasant duties. Such a physician is apt to-degrade his high calling, and inflict irreparable injury on those who put their trust in him. Another evil consequence of dissatisfaction is the desertion of physicians from the ranks of the profession for the sake of lucre, in the various channels of trade, or for the supposed honors of the politician or lawyer, for whose vocation they conceive their minds are better suited. Thus a profession from which distinction and independence might have been secured, is abandoned for another for which there may be no capacity, and society is deprived of the valuable services of one in whom the highest confidence may be reposed. This is morally wrong. The contemptuous opinion which the discontented physician entertains and ex- presses to the world, in regard to his profession, excites in the public mind a like contempt for the doctor and his art; confidence in regular physicians is thereby greatly lessened, and empiricism, in all its forms, is encouraged and patronized. In the choice of a place of residence, be deliberate, but when you do locate, re- solve to hold on with « deathless constancy." Many are the evils resulting from the unfortunate propensity—which most young physicians have—to move from place to place, with the hope of bettering their prospects. Among the most prom- 11 inentmay be enumerated the following: 1st. The interruption of professional improvement; 2d. The sacrifice of valuable capital, which may have been ac- quired in the way of friends and influence; 3d. Instability of purpose, which will prevent success any where; and 4th. Impoverishment. Be assured that no where in this wide world will you find an " El Dorado," or a " happy valley," where, without labor and perseverance, you can be possessed of the wealth of the eaith, or enjoy an elevated professional character. If you journey in pursuit of them, you will discover, when too late, the sad reality that they are phantoms which will continue to elude you. If you would enjoy independence, and an enviable distinction in your profes- sion, you should settle where you would be willing to live whilst you do live j and be assured that, with industry, perseverance, and judicious management, the richest rewards that your profession can bestow will, in due time, be awarded to you. I would earnestly commend to you the cultivation of courteous, compassionate, and gentle manners. This is a means of professional success, too little regarded by young physicians. How often is it the case that elegance and pleasantness of manners constitute the prominent qualifications of an eminently successful rival, whilst another, whose talents and acquirements may be great, but whose address is awkward and displeasing, will be very slow in the acquisition of business! If you would be popular and beloved, you should be dignified, but not too re- served; affable, without too much familiarity; respectful and polite alike to every grade of society. Be assured-that, wheresoever you may be located, in whatever caste of society you may move, your success in your profession will greatly de- pend on your good manners, which, until you are known, must be your first recommendation. Among the means of professional success, none are more influential than promptitude aud punctuality in attending to the calls of the sick. If persons im- pose much confidence in a physician, they look forward, with great pleasure, to his arrival, when they can unbosom themselves to him; explain all their painful sensations to him, have their fears dispelled, and their hearts cheeked by the ex- pression of his sympathy, and his assurance of their safety. But the consolation that is afforded to the patient is not the strongest reason for promptitude on the part of the physician. Many diseases admit of no delay; a few hours may de- cide the issue, whether forjife or death. If the principle of benevolence toward suffering humanity, is not a motive sufficiently strong to urge to the faithful discharge of the obligations under con- sideration, the principle of interest should; for you may be assured that, though the man of high reputation, who has grown grey in the labors of his profession, and has thus a stronghold on the affections of his patrons, may, with impunity, shrink occasionally from his arduous duties, no young practitioner, however great may be his claims, can expect to do so and succeed. In the commencement of your professional life, you may expect to receive a large proportion of calls from the humble poor, who may be totally unable to pay you. Let me advise you never to refuse to serve—first, because it is a duty which you owe to humanity; and secondly, because, in the end, your inteiests will be 12 promoted. Some of the most distinguished physicians that have ever lived, were remarkable for their kindness and attention to the poor; and acknowledged their indebtedness to this, as a means of professional success. Sydenham and Boerhaave were distinguished for their assiduous attentions to the indigent sick. The latter was more punctual and attentive to the poor, than to his opulent patrons; and as- signed as his reason, that " God was their paymaster." The illustrious Cullen, was kind and devoted to the poor, and attributed much of his success among the wealthy, to their observation of his assiduity and disinterested kindness among their poorer neighbors. In our own country, we have the noble examples of Dr. Rush and Dr. Wistar, who manifested great kindness and benevolence to the poor. Do not suppose that the services you may render to the poor, will make you no return. The practical knowledge derived, the consciousness of being in- strumental in relieving a suffering human being, and the deep gratitude felt for the benefit conferred, should be to every physician who aspires to eminence, or who claims to be humane, very ample rewards. Should these motives not impel you, and the love of money be the main-spring to action, I can assure you that, even in a pecuniary point of view, you will be fully compensated; for every honest and virtuous family is visited in sickness by those who are able to pay, and who, observing the disinterested benevolence of the attending physician, are apt to reward it by their own confidence and patron- age. Thus you may often see fulfilled the promise, " Cast thy bread upon the waters, and thou shalt find it again, after many days." If you desire or expect to be popular in your profession, you must be faithful in the discharge of your duties in the sick room. It is here that the best oppor- tunities will be afforded you of consummating your wishes; for this is the thea- tre where the qualities of the good physician are most conspicuously exhibited. You should evince, by your manner, and all of your actions, that you feel for your patients the warmest sympathy, the tenderest regard, and a solicitous concern for their welfare. Your countenance should be pleasing, and expressive of hope ; your manner should be soothing and persuasive; and you should be unremitting in your efforts to comfort and relieve the sick. Be calm and self-possessed, that you may, even under the most trying circumstances, inspire confidence in your skill and judgment. Be careful, critical, and deliberate in the investigation of disease, that you may impress the mind of your patient with the belief that you understand the nature of the case, and that you feel competent to afford relief. On entering the sick room, let the condition of your patient command your first attention; ior, be assured that nothing is better calculated to wound the feelings of the sick, and excite distrust in the kind regard, sympathy, and solicitude of the physician, than an indulgence in ordinary conversation, previous to an exam- ination of the case. Having ministered to the diseased body, you may often effect much by appropriate conversation, principally directed to the sufferer, with the view of diverting the mind, calming the fears, and exciting confidence in your skill and hope of recovery. Under the most discouraging circumstances, do not despair too soon, and aban- don your patient to what you may suppose to be his inevitable doom. In this way, doubtless, many have been lost, who might have been saved by diligent perseverance in remedies. Let your motto be: " Don't give up the ship till it sinks." The lamp of life is sometimes so nearly extinguished, that, like the dim 13 light of an expiring taper, we may think that every ray that is emitted will be the last. Yet, how often is it the case that, though our hope seemed to be vain, the object of our cure, and of other's Jove, by degrees revives ? The cloud of sorrow, that had impended, passes over, and the bright and cheering star of hope arises, to comfort many afflicted hearts! How changed would be the scene ! Joy and gladness would pervade every bosom ; and, should it be your happy lots to be instruments of such blessings, you would be regarded as ministering angels; and your jich recompense would be the love and gratitude of all around. In view of the high responsibilities of your profession, and the sacred trusts that will be committed to you, it behooves you to be strictly temperate in your habits. To a certain extent, you wi II be the arbiters of life or of death; and often on your ex- ertions will be reposed the hopes of an afflicted family. How necessary then, that, in the pursuit of a profession which, more than any other, requires accuracy of observation, and freedom from perplexity, your memory should be unconfused, and your judgment unclouded! 1 would urge you to eschew, as a great evil, that contaminating spirit which tends to derange the health, weaken the mind, and in- capacitate one for the arduous and responsible duties of the physician. What- ever may be your talents, however excellent your attainments, whatever your claims on society, the vice of intemperance would blight your fairest hopes in the spring-time of life. Many, as buoyant with hope and expectation as you now are, and whose talents might have elevated them to eminence and usefulness, have fallen the degraded victims of the inebriating'draught, which represses the noble rage of the mind, and pollutes the genial currents of the soul. If you would be eminently successful in life, and blessed when time shall end, you should cherish in your hearts, and act out in your lives, the sacred principles , of morality and religion. May they ever be " as a lamp to your feet and as a light to your path," midst the temptations and dangers to which you will be ex- posed. Be assured that they will conduce much to the consummation of your highest hopes of professional success. They are essential to the constitution of the great and good physician. They will teach you how to live; they alone can teach you how to die. The peculiar and interesting relation which you will sustain towards patients, and confiding families, will impose upon you the weightiest obligations to secrecy, discretion, and honor. Every communication that may be made to you, and every circumstance that may come under your observation, should be held in sacred confidence. Never abuse or betray the confidence that may be reposed in you, but be, as your duty and interest require you to be, the strictly confidential friend of all with whom you may have professional intercourse. Towards your professional brethren, be ever courteous, respectful and forbear- ing. Frown with indignation on the low and contemptible arts and devices prac- tised by some, to raise themselves at the sacrifice of others' welfare. Disdain, by word or action, to tarnish the reputation, or injure the prospects of your profes- sional brethren, whom you should never regard with an envious or jealous eye, but as fellow-laborers in the same great field of usefulness; as co-workers in the common cause of doing good to your fellow-men. The illustrious Hufeland has remarked—" he who degrades a colleague, degrades himself and his art." Let this precept make an indelible impression on your minds, and incite you, through life, to protect the character, the feelings and the interests of every worthy member 14 of the profession. As you regard the dignity and honor of your high calling, your own respectability, and that noblest of human virtues, charity, you should ever conform to the divine precept—" Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." But, gentlemen, however pure may be your motives, however correct your con- duct, however irreproachable you character, you must expect to be assailed and calumniated. The wisest and the best of men have not escaped the envenomed darts of slander. Even he who thought it not robbery to be equal with God— when he tabernacled on earth—was censured and reviled. Follow the example of our Divine Exemplar, who when reviled, reviled not again, but pitied those who maliciously used him. Never condescend to retaliate by detraction or re- crimination; this is unbecoming to the gentleman and the christian. Keep your consciences void of offence ; possess a consciousness of rectitude, and let your hearts be endued with the sacred priaciples of truth and justice, and you will oc- cupy an impregnable fortress of defence, and may, with noble independence, scorn the assaults of enemies, whether made by dastards who may shoot in am- buscade, or by a numerous junto, that tinder false colors, may openly attack you. " Purity of motive and nobility of mind shall rarely condescend To prove its righ's, or prate of wrongs, or evidence its worth to others. And it shall be small care to the high and happy conscience What jealous friends, or envions foes, or common fools may judge. Should the lion turn and rend every snarling jackal], Or an eagle be stopp'd in his career to pnnish the petulance of sparrows? Should the palm tree bend his crown to chide the sparrow at his feet ? • • • * * * • • Should the nightingale account it worth her pains to vindicate her music \, Before some sorry finches that affect to jndge of song? No: many an injustice,many a sneer and slur, Is passed aside wite noble scorn. *** *••*« For the great mind well may be sad to note such littleness in brethren." In conclusion, gentlemen, I would remind you of the important and responsible relation which you will continue to sustain to the Institution whose diploma you will take with you, and which, inter nos et ubique gentium, will be an honorable passpon to you. Wheresoever you may go, you will be regarded as the standard by which her merits will be judged; may you, therefore, ever feel the obligation resting upon you, to endeavor, to the utmost of your ability, to sustain her repu- tation, and reflect honor upon her. Your preceptors feel a deep solicitude for your future welfare, and indulge the fond hope that you career in life may be such as to prove you to be worthy of the confidence they have, this night, re- posed in you. May they not cherish a more exalted hope, that years hence, when our voices may have been hushed in death, some, I should say, many among you, may be destined to be looked upon as amongst the brightest orna- ments of your " Alma Mater," and the proudest monuments of American science. Be assured that when we part, you will take with you our warmest sympathies and our sincere wishes for your happiness and success. Hoping that the Divine blessing may attend all of your efforts in life, and that your last end may be that of the righteous, we would most affectionately bid yoa, Farewell.' GKADUATES or THE MEDICAL DEPARTMENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI. SESSION OF 1848-'9. NAMES. ANGELL.JOHN M............. BARRETT, JOSEPH ADDISON BROWN, M. FRANKLIN....... CURTIS, IRA BLACKMAN..... CASTLIO, JASPER N........... CASE, DON CARLOS.......... COLE, DAVID V.......-...... CHILES, PHILIP B............. CUNNINGHAM, RICHARD F.. DEARBORN, JONATHAN, JR. DUNHAM, LAVINUS......-.. DIMMITT, PHILIPT........... FITCH, GEORGE W............ FITZ.JOHNC.................. GROVES, ALEXANDER A..... GLENN, HUGH J.............. GIDDINGS, SILAS B............ GRATIOT, CHARLES B...... HOLLIDAY, CH\RLES H...... HOWELL, WILLIAM J....... JAYNE, WILLIAM............ KERNS, ABSALOM........... LAMME, ACHILLES.......... LEWIS, RUSSELL B........... LYNDE, ROBERT RALSTON. MATSON, JAMES T............ MONTGOMERY, THOMAS P.. NASH, CHARLES E........... NANCE WILLIAM H......... OWENS, SHERWOOD A...... CDONNELL, THOMAS....... PAYNE, OLIVER B.........., SUBJECT OF THESIS. .....Gastritis. .Portal Circle and Liver. .Therapeutical agency of Mercury. Leucorrhea. ■ Inflammation. .Paralysis. .Remittent Fever. .Typhoid Fever. .Epidemic Cholera. .Intermittent Fever. . Hernia. • Acute Pneumonia. .Influence of the Mind upon Disease .Menstruation. .Diseasesincidentto Malarious Districts. .Inflammation. .Conception. .Malaria. . Medical Excellence. ..Typhoid Fever. ..Remittent Fever. .Diseases and Considerations Modifying Treatment. ..Erysipelas. ..Pneumonia. ..The Blood and the motive powers which produce its Circulation. .Moral and Intellectual Qualifications of a Physician. ..Epidemic Cholera. ..Hernia. ..Typhoid Fever. ..The Blood. ..Acute Gastritis. ...Parturition. 16 NAMES. SUBJECT OF THESIS. RAMEY, JAMES..........................Intermittent Fever. RICHARDSON, SILAS....................Epidemic Cholera. REDMAN, ELIAS C......................Hydrocephalus. SEELEY,,MARCELLUS. E...............Scarlatina. STEWART, JOHNG.....................Cholera Infantum. TODD, WILLIAM W....................Yellow Fever. Ad Eundem Degrees Conferred upon : BURNS, WILLIAM H., M. D., from Kemper College, Missouri. RANSOM, S. S., M. D., from Berkshire Medical College, Massachusetts. TAYLOR, JOHN L., M. D., from Transylvania Medical College, Kentucky. KNOWLES FREEMAN, M. D., from Kemper Medical College, Missouri. BROWN, B. B., M. D., from St. Louis University, Missouri. Honorary Degrees Conferred upon: HENRY C. WRIGHT, Missouri. J. W. HOLLOWBUSH, Illinois. G. JAYNE, Illinois. W. BLISS MAXON, New York. HEROD W. HUDNELL, Missouri. he'* '/-