JENNER. 257 finally in an elevated rank amongst its most suc- cessful explorers. We perceive that Jemier was not conducted to his great discovery by an accident which might have equally favoured a less diligent student, but that his mind was prepared to seize any previously unnoticed phenomenon which might present itself, and to derive from a careful and vigorous spirit of observation those profitable results which the indolent and timid ascribe to the chance of fortune, but which are in reality the rewards of patient and well-directed inquiry. We shall enter more minutely into the early period of Jenner's life than into the details of his later years, which are in a manner embodied with the subject that has consecrated his name. The years in which a great character forms itself, and the manner in which it displays itself before it has ripened into public fame, are always those least familiar to the world, and, we may add, are often the most instructive and animating to others. In this early part of his career Jenner afforded indi- cations of genius which good judges of character recognised as the harbingers of future reputation. His surgical attainments, his amiable and polished manners, and his very general information, se- cured to him a welcome reception from the most distinguished families in his district. His tender- ness, kindness, and meekness, were remarkable ; an uncommon delicacy of feeling occasionally threw a pensive shade over his mind, but his lively disposition equally entered into the deepest sympathy with the sadder moments of his friends, or gaily participated in their happier hours. The excursions which he was obliged to make gratified s
