Stepping stones to success in the practice of surgery.

THE DISTINCTION which you conferred on me in my election to the presidency of this association has for me a peculiar significance. Living outside its geographic limits, I considered it a special privilege to be welcomed into your group several years ago. For the same reason, the knowledge that you honored me with your highest office is all the more precious. Again, let me say, as I said to you last year, that of the seventeen professional societies to which I belong the fellowship and inspiration of this membership have meant more to me than those of any other. My remarks on this occasion will deal with a familiar theme. The subject was chosen largely because it is my belief that the high calling of surgery demands the most rigorous standards of admission, the most thorough preparation of those who would enter its ranks. The opinions expressed bear repetition in