1902

My heart is heavy with grief at the passing of four of our classmates, "Celery" (Raymond)Paine, Ben Stevens, Ralph Taylor, Dave Keniston. All were men who contributed much to the world in which they lived. Each stirred us with affection, after long intervals of not seeing them. They were all loyal Dartmouth men and devoted members of 1902. In an early issue, you will find the death notices for them on the pages headed In Memoriam. Will all those, both within and out of the Class, who so kindly wrote me at the time of the passing of these boys, please accept my thanks and appreciation of the letters and the newspaper clippings they sent?

Earlier in the month there came a kind and encouraging and appreciative letter from dear "Buck" Lewers '03. I was more touched and pleased by his letter than I can put into words. Why don't we all think to do these kind and helpful things that our friends may always know we love and cherish them?

Didn't you fellows think that the last issue of the ALUMNI MAGAZINE was unusually good? This isn't saying that the usual number is not so good that I don't read it from cover to cover. After reading the latest number, I feel that I know the faculty and their aims and ambitions in a way I never have before. Thank God, the old College does not stand still.

I wish each of you would write me a statement of "This I Believe," like Ed Murrow. It would help you to determine whether or not you are standing still. I would be glad to publish in this column the really good things that would come out of such statements. I have been reading Theodore White's Fire inthe Ashes, Europe in Mid-Century, published by William Sloane Associates. It is so much in agreement with my thinking that I am inclined to be a bit suspicious of it. It's worth reading, anyhow.

I am sorry indeed to hear through BenRiley that Louis Dow is planning a trip to the hospital. I join with Ben in hoping that a prompt recovery may make it possible for him to join the Class in Norwich in June.

Ducky Drake is having a fine vacation at Lake Worth. George Elderkin and family are at Venice on the west coast of Florida.

Percy produced a fine letter telling us of our proposed interim reunion in Norwich. I trust many will go. I am by no means sure that Stella and I can make it but we are still hoping. I am filled with something like nostalgia as I read over Percy's letter and think I may not be there. Arba Irvin is about to start for a long stay in California. He is doubtful as to whether or not he will be back in time to make the reunion.

Two weeks ago I looked out and there was Roy Hatch coming across the lawn. I suspect the neighbors were convinced that this household had suddenly gone crazy as they witnessed the vociferousness and heartiness of the greetings exchanged. Roy is staying in DeLand. We hope soon to go over to see him. The dear fellow looked remarkably well, considering that he had just completed a trip from Oregon.

Secretary, 210 Columbus Avenue Coronado Station New Smyrna Beach, Fla.

Class Agent 412 Garfield St., Pullman, Wash.