Notable service in the field of abdominal surgery won for Dr. James Bell an international reputation. His broad study and research made him a scientist of renown and his opinions were largely accepted as authority by the profession which recognized him not only as an eminent surgeon, but equally capable educator. He was born at North Gower, Ontario, in 1852, and after acquiring his early education in local schools and by private tuition, he entered McGill University and was graduated as Holmes’ gold medallist in 1877, a fact indicative of the excellent work which he had done in his student days. He was immediately appointed house surgeon in the Montreal General Hospital, which position he held until 1882, gaining that broad practical experience and knowledge which only hospital practice can bring. In 1880 he became medical superintendent of the Montreal General Hospital and in 1885 was appointed to the position of assistant surgeon, followed by appointment as surgeon a year later. He filled the position with distinction for eight years and then became surgeon of the new Royal Victoria Hospital in 1894, remaining in that connection until his demise. As the years passed his skill and ability constantly increased and developed and his reputation spread abroad until he was acknowledged not only one of the eminent surgeons of Canada, but also, by reason of his specialty in abdominal work, as one of the most distinguished representatives of the profession on the American continent. He became just as widely known in connection with surgical work for the treatment of gall stones and kidney diseases. In addition to his other hospital service he was consulting surgeon of the Children’s Hospital. After going to Victoria Hospital he remained a consulting surgeon of the Montreal General Hospital and also acted in a similar capacity at the Maternity Hospital. [Illustration: DR. JAMES BELL]