Nothing could seem more auspicious than such a prospect. Mr. Abernethy was a man remarkable for the original view he took of most subjects; a vast experience, gathered from various sources by a mind combining vividly perceptive powers with great capacity for reflection, a conformation well adapted for opening out _new paths, and extending the boundaries of science_. Abernethy was now to be associated with a colleague who had already manifested no ordinary talent for the graceful and judicious exposition of what _was already known_. Nothing could have seemed more promising; nor was there anything in the opening of Mr. Lawrence's first lecture which seemed calculated to baulk these expectations. His exordium contained an appropriate recognition of Mr. Abernethy, which, as we should only mar it by extract, we give entire. Having referred to the circumstances which immediately preceded his appointment, Mr. Lawrence thus proceeds: "To your feelings I must trust for an excuse, if any be thought necessary, for taking the earliest opportunity of giving utterance to the sentiments of respect and gratitude I entertain for the latter gentleman (Mr. Abernethy). You and the public know, and have long known, his acute mind, his peculiar talent for observation, his zeal for the advancement of surgery, and his successful exertions in improving the scientific knowledge and treatment of disease; his singular happiness in developing and teaching to others the original and philosophic views which he naturally takes of all subjects that come under his examination, and the success with which he communicates that enthusiasm in the cause of science and humanity which is so warmly felt by himself; the admirable skill with which he enlivens the dry details of elementary instruction are most gratefully acknowledged by his numerous pupils. "All these sources of excellence have been repeatedly felt in this theatre. Having had the good fortune to be initiated in the profession by Mr. Abernethy, and to have lived for many years under his roof, I can assure you, with the greatest sincerity, that however highly the public may estimate the surgeon and philosopher, I have reason to speak still more highly of the man and of the friend, of the invariable kindness which directed my early studies and pursuits, and the disinterested friendship which has assisted every step of my progress in life, the independent spirit and the liberal conduct which, while they dignify the profession, win our love, command our respect for genius and knowledge, converting these precious gifts into instruments of the most extensive public good[38]."