Page:The Harveian oration on Harvey in ancient and modern medicine (electronic resource) (IA b20420080).pdf/14

fewer differences of opinion where all are better informed. As to the second, though there is no reason to think that Harvey meant the address to apply especially to himself, or be a repeated tribute to his own memory, yet in commemorating our benefactors it is not unreasonable to speak in particular of the greatest of them, one who was a benefactor not only to the College but to the race. And as to the third, the results of Harvey's work will without any special exhortation speak sufficiently in commendation of his method. Therefore I propose to make Harvey the subject of my discourse, and if I say again what has been better said before, my excuse must be that on so familiar a topic there can be little of novelty. Custom has sanctioned the use of this opportunity for the discussion of matters, often of the highest interest, but only remotely connected with Harvey or the purpose of his bequest. I shall not presume thus to wander, but gladly avail myself of the restrictions of a trodden path and a limited scope.