This issue of Visual Neuroscience contains the last scientific contribution of Brian B. Boycott. In December 1999, Brian was just recovering from a serious operation in London, when I sent him an early draft of the paper. He returned the manuscript with many excellent suggestions for improvements and in the accompanying letter he wrote, “I think you are generous to include my name. I won't argue because when it comes out in 2000 it will be the 50th anniversary of my first published paper. This appeals to me.” Unfortunately Brian did not live to see the publication of this paper and passed away on April 22, 2000.