The Life of Sophia Jex-Blake

by Graham Travers

Commending the whole question to the most favourable consideration of yourself and your colleagues, I remain,

Yours obedly,

Sophia Jex-Blake.”

At least she and Miss M‘Laren were not kept waiting long in suspense. On the very same day the answer was despatched:

“University of Durham College of Medicine,

Newcastle on Tyne.

June 23rd. 1873.

Dear Miss Blake,

I am requested to forward you a copy of a resolution passed unanimously at an extraordinary meeting of members held today.

‘That the members of this College, at an extraordinary meeting, having considered the question of opening the Classes of the College for the education of women, decide that they cannot consent to the application made, either as to education or as to Examination for Licences and Degrees.’