1876*

Now that practically all the survivors of the class have retired from active occupation in accustomed ways, the query naturally arises, how is this change viewed? Is it looked upon as a privilege or a burden? The Secretary has regular correspondence with most of his classmates, but he has never had an intimation that the later period of leisure was a burden. He did have a letter not long ago, from a graduate of another institution, recently retired from professional duties, in which it was mentioned that "time hangs heavy on my hands"; but within a week in a letter from a member of '96, living in a climate milder than that of New England, definite delight was expressed at the opportunities afforded by retirement leisure, with observations like the following" Sweet pea seed planted Sept. 1, was producing blossoms Dec. 7."

But the Secretary has definite interest at present as to the books his classmates are reading; an interest, however, that is not likely to be satisfied. Some hint as to an answer may be afforded by the literary taste of classmates so far as it is known. A number of years ago Tripp recommended Eothen, Kinglake's charming book of travel, and Chas. Reade's Cloister andHearth. Later he mentioned a Life of St.Paul and Monastaries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Tripp employs the greater part of his present leisure time in reading.

The Secretary knows something of McCutcheon's literary taste. McCutcheon reads French and dips into Montaigne, and he has collected a library that without doubt would stand inspection. Of his present reading the Secretary knows nothing. Of the literary taste and present reading of other classmates his knowledge is too slight to be recorded.

Secretary, 411 High St., West Medford, Mass.