At a period like the present, when lunacy legislation is attracting much attention, it is interesting to note the various peculiarities of the law as it now exists in various countries. I have no doubt that most of those who listen to me have seen the Blue Book which the Government caused to be published giving some account of the laws dealing with lunatics in several lands, but many who have not practised in Ireland are unacquainted with the very remarkable features which the lunacy law of that part of Her Majesty's dominions presents. It is true that geographical proximity, or even membership of the same kingdom, does not always connote similarity in social conditions; and the social conditions of any country are as important an element in legislation for the insane as for the sane. Nevertheless even from Ireland instruction may sometimes be obtained, though perhaps some will say that that land more often affords examples for avoidance than for imitation.