and it was to this indomitable industry that he owed his success in
life. His perseverance was displayed even in his amusements; he was
fond of music, but had not a sufficiently correct ear to play the
violin well, yet he would not abandon it, but scraped away year after
year, in hopes of ultimate success, although in this instance without
attaining his object. In more important pursuits, his industry was
amply rewarded; and having taken his degree, we must now call the
heretofore denizen of the Pit, Dr Dickson, and record, that the
students of the university, on his leaving Edinburgh, presented him
with a testimonial, to signify their appreciation of his valuable
demonstrations in the class of Practical Anatomy. Some of his
preparations may still be seen in the Museum of the College of
Surgeons.

An appointment as assistant-surgeon in the navy was now procured for
him; medical officers being then in greater request than they are in
these piping times of peace. With affectionate regret, and not unmanly
tears, he left the home that had sheltered him for so many and such
important years of his life, and towards which he ever evinced the
warmest attachment. His gratitude was not long in shewing itself
practically. In a few years, he returned from abroad; and on landing
in Britain, heard that the son of his former benefactor, with whom he
had been on the most intimate terms, was desirous of leaving the army,
and entering into partnership with some medical man in England, for
which a considerable sum of money was necessary. Dr Dickson knew full
well that there might be some difficulty in advancing the required
amount to the youngest of a family of fourteen; so he addressed a
beautiful and touching letter to him--saying, 'that he had already,
out of the savings of his pay and prize-money, bought an annuity for
his old mother, and had no one else to provide for. To you,' continued