Letter from Dr. King

Selected writings of John King.

As Dr. King neared the end of his journey in life his thoughts reverted to the days of his activity in college work. To few men had it been vouchsafed to have served as a medical teacher for nearly sixty years, in over forty of which he taught Obstetrics to the classes in the Institute. When no longer able to do his work there, he kept in touch with the Faculty and student-body. This letter, almost the last that John King wrote, is characteristic of him, breathing his love for Eclecticism and the desire for remembrance. If the memory of any teacher ever deserved to be enshrined in the hearts of his pupils it is the memory of John King. He knew his work was well done; he knew he would be remembered; and his mind and heart looked forward to the future of the school in which his fruitful and happy life had been spent.—Ed. Gleaner.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Medical Class:

This morning the 1st of January, 1892, I have entered upon my eightieth year of life. Over forty years of that life have been devoted heart and soul to the cause of Eclecticism; for its advancement I have labored, and its interests have ever lain very near my heart; and now although by reason of physical infirmities I have been obliged to retire from the active duties of my honored position in the Faculty of this College, my mind and heart are still for the cause, and for the advancement of this school; my best wishes for the happiness and prosperity of each friend and student here. In all our relations as teacher and pupil there has been much pleasure to me; and many of the happiest hours of my life have been passed in this lecture room. For you and my colleagues I have only kind feelings and pleasant recollections. I am now nearing that other shore where I shall become only a memory to friends here. It will cheer me to think 'that in those years to come your thoughts will turn to the past and recall a kind remembrance of the old Professor gone before.

I send my kindest greetings, and happiest wishes for the New Year to you and my colleagues. Your friend and old-time teacher,

JOHN KING, M. D., 1892.

The Biographies of King, Howe, and Scudder, 1912, was written by Harvey Wickes Felter, M. D.