In the Blizzardly Cold South

By contrast, John McLean's R. F. Scott, appeared as something less perfect, more human and more sincere. His speech impressed me as being the best attempt at oratory of the evening. His subject was one which is frequently attempted in an oratory contest and for that reason was not a particularly good choice. However, he handled it reasonably well His opening gave the keynote: "The very drama of death often makes men famous, but ..." He went on to illustrate why Scott was, apart altogether from the fact that he died in tragic circumstances, a hero. The quotation from Scott's diary was well handled: a thing which is often quoted becomes trite by repetition, but this quotation is an integral part of Scott's story. His portrait of Scott as a dreamer was skilfully managed while I. at any rate, saw the southern wastes through Scott's eyes when John spoke of the undisclosed regions. These illustrations served to give colour and variety to the speech, and are the principal reasons why I rated him above Bruce Brown.

John's conclusion was good though I felt that more fire could have been impressed into the penultimate sentences. Although he has an excellent voice, he has yet to achieve the full realisation of his talents in this respect. He used little gesture but appealed as being quite at home on the platform. He has a pleasant manner and looks a likely future winner.