From JOHN STRUTHERS, ESQ., M.D., F.R.C.S.E., Lecturer on Anatomy in Surgeons' Hall, Edinburgh, and Assistant Surgeon to the Royal Infirmary, &c. &c.
COLLEGE OF SURGEONS, EDINBURGH,
From W. R. SANDERS, Esq., M.D., F.R.C.P.E., Lecturer on Physiology, Surgeons' Hall, Edinburgh, &c. &c.
EDINBURGH, 15, DUKE STREET,
November 18th, 1858.
November 18th, 1858.
In expressing my opinion of DR. JOHN IVOR MURRAY's fitness and claims for the appointment of Colonial Surgeon at Hong Kong, I ought to begin by mentioning that he has been intimately known to me since we commenced our studies together in the Edinburgh Medical School; that I am aware of his career as a practitioner for ten years in China; and that since his return to Edinburgh I have had the best means of judging of his riper attainments and character.
If the appointment is to be given on the score of merit and qualification, I know of no one better fitted for, and more deserving of it, than DR. MURRAY, whether on the ground of education, talents, character, or experience.
As a student DR. MURRAY was well known in the Edinburgh School for his assiduity and ability, and distinguished himself by gaining the highest honors in several of the University Classes. Then, his long residence as a medical man in China must constitute a very strong claim, for there not only did his native energy and talent secure him success, but the experience he gained has been of that kind which fits him peculiarly for the nearly similar position at Hong Kong.
DR. MURRAY has also, I may add, all along had a taste for the cultivation of the Natural Sciences during his leisure hours; and I believe, if appointed to Hong Kong, he would, besides discharging the duties, turn his position to national account, not only in collecting the products of Chinese Art and Science, but in adding to our knowledge of the Botany and Natural History of the neighbourhood.
In conclusion, let me add, what is of no less importance than professional skill, that DR. MURRAY is a man of upright character and of the highest honor; and that I believe, if appointed, he will not only discharge the duties efficiently and uphold the dignity of the Medical Profession, but of the British character, by his superior intelligence, skill, and uprightness. Although I shall rejoice in DR. MURRAY's appointment, since he desires it, I shall greatly regret the removal from Edinburgh of one who stands so high in my respect and affection.
JOHN STRUTHERS, M.D., F.R.C.S.,
Lecturer on Anatomy.
I have just been informed that Dr. IVOR MURRAY is a Candidate for the appointment of Colonial Surgeon at Hong Kong, and I have great pleasure in saying that I believe him to be eminently qualified for it.
He has already been in China, where he resided for ten years, engaged in extensive medical practice; and during that time he has made himself thoroughly acquainted with the country, the climate, and the prevailing diseases. His professional zeal and activity, which ensured him success in China, have also been already devoted to the public service, during the Crimean war. All who know DR. MURRAY have formed the highest opinion of his talents, professional ability, and character.
I feel assured that DR. MURRAY would fill the appointment in the most creditable manner.
WILLIAM R. SANDERS, M.D., F.R.C.P.E.,
Lecturer on Physiology and the Institutes of Medicine at Surgeons' Hall, Edinburgh.
From P. H. WATSON, ESQ., M.D., F.R.C.S.E., Lecturer on Surgery, Surgeons' Hall, Edinburgh, late Assistant Surgeon R.A., &c. &c.
10, CHARLOTTE SQUARE,
EDINBURGH, November 18th, 1858.
From an intimate acquaintance with DR. IVOR MURRAY during the last two years, I have had the best opportunities for forming an opinion of his talents and professional attainments. These are of a very high kind, and guided as they are by a vast practical experience both in civil and military life, both as a physician and surgeon in private practice, as the surgeon to a large Hospital, and in the Crimea, I have no hesitation in stating my conviction that no one with whom I am acquainted is better qualified to hold the appointment of Colonial Surgeon at Hong Kong; all the more that, from his previous long residence in China, he is thoroughly conversant with the country.
PATRICK HERON WATSON,
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