FROM THE UNDERGRADUATE CHAIR

The most hectic period of a hectic year is drawing to a close. There are those who never were so glad to see a term end. but there stand others who regret the passing of the 1923-24 session—saying that it is undoubtedly a high point in the College's history. But more evenly balanced persons are inclined to welcome a change from the old order which fostered permanent skepticism, in favor of one which will discontinue the ranting and hypercriticism—in favor of accomplishing something constructive next year;—so in our farewell bow we let those interested know that Dartmouth is not going downward,—but, on the other hand, promises to lift its liberal head higher than ever in the next session. For the same undergraduate body that this year trampled much under foot bids fair to adopt a more sensible and thoughtful course next year.

Let it be clearly understood that this is a personal viewpoint, a sophomore viewpoint, if you please. In view of the action of the Class of 1926 in refusing to contest the picture fight with the freshmen this year, it may be well here to recite the heretical details: Last year 1926 succeeded in taking the picture, though 192S opposed them. This year the usual lack of interest in the fight was manifested during the first part of the term,—only a few sophomores discussing the fight and no freshmen knowing anything about it. Then an undercurrent, fostered by one or two, against the continuance of the tradition was manifested in two letters to THE DARTMOUTH.

As yet, no sides had been taken by the majority. But the party lines formed as soon as other individuals came out for the fight. So the scrap was «on. Objections were based on the claim that such class struggles are not in accord with liberal college ideals, o'thers denied the merits of the fight as a solidifying influence for the classes, still more could not see spending the night in the country dodging clubs. Then a forum was held, at which all were allowed to express sentiments and after which the three upper classes were allowed to vote. The opinion, both by voice and by ballot, was in the majority, against the contest. But Palaeopitus had previously decided to judge on a "percentage of percentage" basis, disregarding the mathematical impossibility of such procedure. So, when the sophomore class, which voted more than 2 to 1 against the contest, was counted as a third, and the senior and junior classes each as thirds,—the final announced result showed a bare majority for the contest.

Palaeopitus decided, as suggested at the forum, to allow the freshmen to remove restrictions if they won the fight and that the contest should be held as usual. Well, —that night was historic in the records of the Class of 1926. In a class meeting, those opposed to the contest succeeded in declaring that the Class of 1926 should not participate in the contest—by a 197 to 85 vote. The E'ditor of THE DARTMOUTH, interpreting the action as a reflection upon the honor, sincerity and integrity of Palaeopitus, called upon the class to state their positions more definitely—with which a resolution was passed whereby the refusal of the class to participate in the picture contest was emphatically reaffirmed and an assurance given that the action was in no way intended to reflect on Palaeopitus.

Then the Class of 1927 took advantage of the opportunity, marched out of Hanover 300 strong under cover of darkness, took a flashlight picture—and returned 3 A. M. cheering. Since that night no freshman rules have been observed.

Now the whole discussion seems to have been "much ado about nothing," so the issue is forgotten. But why did it ever occur? The reason is the same one that might be given for the general change in attitude of the campus during the year—and is direct evidence of the tremendous influence of THE DARTMOUTH. The daily newspaper during the past year fomented more discussion than any other College organization, and it was due directly to the personality and convictions of W. H. Cowley '24, editor-in-chief. Essaying a role of reformer, Cowley hammered at the institutions of the College which he did not believe worth while in a manner which was strongly individualistic. And doing so he brought about a marvelous change on the campus,—one of refusing to accept the dictates of the traditional past on the merits of tradition alone,—but rather first testing all vestiges of other years byreason and value. It is a rather unusual and amusing fact that the discussion was carried to such lengths as to turn almost on its instigator, for Cowley favored the retention of the picture fight, for instance. Also, it looked as though the senior committee on education would adopt a most radical majority report advocating fundamental changes in the present fraternity and athletic systems—which steps Cowley opposed,—according to authoritative seniors. However, these steps did not finally materialize.

Many claim freely that Cowley has done more for the College than any other 1924 man,—but it all harks back to the power and prestige the editor-in-chief of THE DARTMOUTH has. All of which leads up to the question as to what policy will be pursued next year. Much can be had of the differing policies by reading the "Amen, Etc." of Cowley and "The Reins Change," of Whitney Campbell '25, new editor,—both of which expressions come from the editorial columns of THE DARTMOUTH.