Genre:

News-Commentary, Drollery

Subjects:

Education, Lecturing, Physiology, Anatomy, Human Species, Crime

Institutions mentioned:

Royal Navy

    Discusses a 'report of Naval and Military Intelligence' describing the lectures 'On the Physiology of Man' given to the policemen who patrol Chatham Dockyard. Reveals that the lecturer, Mr Lichfield, is merely 'an uncommonly intelligent' police officer who, according to the report, showed himself to be 'thoroughly conversant with the subject'. Believes that the physiological subjects taught by Lichfield will give policemen 'abundant food for contemplation' and the ability to reflect on the 'beautiful framework of bones' and physiological mechanisms that he uses to catch criminals. Concludes by observing that the policeman has now 'begun to apprehend the facts of science', and 'not only commands progress in the thoroughfares, but exemplifies it in the walks of intellect'.