Originally published in 1913, this text of the Linacre Lecture delivered at St John's College, Cambridge, will be of value to those interested in the role physicians have played in British history from Bede to Johnson. Moore details how doctors have effected change throughout British history not only by curing disease but also through their friendships with great men of letters, monarchs and scientists. This was a topic close to Moore's heart, since he himself was close to many leading figures of his day, including the Rossettis and George Eliot, in addition to being a highly respected physician and academic.