SMOKE TALK BY NORMAN HAPGOOD

On Saturday evening, February 20, Mr. Norman Hapgood, editor of ColliersWeekly, spoke before a crowded hall at the Commons, upon the subject, "Idealism in Politics."

After a few humorous introductory remarks and allusions, Mr. Hapgood began by stating that although idealism in politics may be considered by many as "imaginary or impossible," nevertheless it exists and has existed in several instances for many years in our national annals. He cited as examples the great statemanship of Abraham Lincoln, and the noteworhy policies of that man in selecting for his cabinet officers and high officials his deadliest political opponents. As instances of contemporary idealists, Mr. Hapgood mentioned Governor Hughes, Theodore Roosevelt, and President-elect Taft; the fearless stand taken by Hughes against race-track gambling, the independent and self-confident administraion of the President, and the gradual and sure rise of Mr. Taft.

The lecturer then spoke of the means and room for improvement in New Hampshire politics, in his opinion. He also gave his ideas in support of woman's suffrage.

After the lecture Mr. Hapgood met a considerable number of instructors and students, talking with them upon different phases of his subject.