3 John was able to join us at the Members’ Day on Saturday, 18 May; and what a day it was! Not only did we enjoy a stimulating Cecil Isaacson Memorial Lecture by Michael Crumplin FRS about naval surgery and Nelson’s mortal wound, but never before has the Club witnessed such a splendid turnout of members – over 60 of you – plus about 10 guests, some of whom have since joined. It was only circumstances that caused us to move away from Greenwich for the AGM, but given the turn out and the fantastic atmosphere generated, the message is clear: a central London location is much better for everyone. We look forward to returning to central London again next year. This may or may not be at the East India Club, but it was certainly an excellent venue and given the historical connections that I have highlighted in this dispatch, it is probably fitting to leave you with one more that relates the East India Club itself. Its home at 16 St James’s Square, has a direct connection to the official Waterloo Dispatch written by the Duke of Wellington on 19 June 1815. The Dispatch was carried to London by Major The Honorable Henry Percy, aged 30, serving with the 14th Light Dragoons. He had been posted as an aide de camp to Wellington and would most likely have known General Álava. After an eventful journey from Waterloo to London, one that compares with Lieutenant John Richard Lapenotiere’s carrying Collingwood’s Trafalgar Dispatch, Percy announced the victory to the Cabinet. The Prime Minister, Lord Liverpool, then accompanied Percy to Mrs Edward Boehm’s house at 16 St James’s Square, where the Prince Regent was dining. Percy’s final mission was to lay the two French Imperial Eagles captured during the battle at the Prince’s feet. This took place in the room adjacent to where we enjoyed our Members’ Day. Isn’t history marvelous! With kind regards and best wishes to you all. Peter Warwick, Chairman There was much lively conversation over welcoming coffee in the Hogarth Room, surrounded by prints by the artist. Present chairman Peter Warwick (left) warmly thanked our lecturer, the distinguished surgeon Mr Michael Crumplin.
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