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SMAD. An Organ of Student Opinion. 1932. Volume 3. Number 4.

Correspondence

page 10

Correspondence.

decorative Feature

New Speakers' Hooley.

Dear "Smad,"—

Though, we do not wish to interfere with any club's conduct of its own affairs, we feel that new speakers are already sufficiently handicapped without being forced to submit to conditions which reduce a debate to the level of a Billingsgate brawl. We find such terms hardly adequate to describe conditions at the last New Speakers' Debate. Throughout the whole of the first speech, a deafening uproar prevailed, through which the chairman sat with a smirking smile of smug indifference. Blasting of squeakers, slamming of doors, shuffling of feet, and a constant babble of voices were passed unheeded by our casual chairman.

At the conclusion of the speech, we, the undersigned, deeply in sympathy with the speakers and with the four serious-minded members of the audience (of whom we were two), thought it our duty to move a vote of no-confidence in the chairman. This casual gentleman reluctantly put the motion to the meeting, by whom it was carried unanimously. Imagine our surprise when this pocket Mussolini brushed the decision of the audience contemptuously aside, and proceeded with the meeting in defiance of every known democratic principle.

From then on the meeting sounded like the S.C.M. table in the Cafeteria. We had abandoned all hope of hearing the speeches, and were about to make a dignified exit from the meeting when our student, Stalin, made use of a lull in the storm and of his usurped position as chairman, to display feelings of petty animosity and vindictiveness against the only two members of the audience who had been public-spirited enough to protest against the reign of misrule. Referring to us by name, he attributed to us all the disturbance which was so obviously the outcome of his own incompetence. We feel that by making this protest we at the same time clear our own fair name and obtain for new speakers that fair play On which Victoria College has always prided itself.

C. G. Watson.

J. J. Coyle.

The Chairman Replies.

Since, whatever its object, the effect of the preceding letter, with its tone of injured innocence, is to convey an entirely wrong impression to those not present at the debate, then the self-justification of the irresponsible conduct at the debate should be criticised in the same manner as the irresponsible conduct itself.

New Speakers' Debates are solely for the benefit of new speakers, and not for the amusement of those who come to create a disturbance and distract the attention of the audience with incessant attempts at humour and unnecessary points of order.

The "No Confidence" motion, so far from being carried unanimously, was defeated by an absolute majority of the Society's members present. The "dignified exit" referred to was commenced during a member's speech, and was an ill-mannered and noisy parade along the top of one of the benches.

The "fair play on which Victoria College has always prided itself" should make it unnecessary for a chairman to call to order "public-spirited" and "serious minded" members who persistently interrupt speakers.A. Chorlton.

Our Kollege Kats.

Dear "Smad,"—

It is, indeed, no wonder that the general public on every possible occasion, harangue against the present-day student of University Colleges. They would be even more inclined to long vociferations if they knew just how futile an education is to most women of the day.

When one is not in a factory, or a workroom, one does not expect to meet the "cat" type of girl, who sees everyone else precisely as she herself really is. Taking, for example, our famous "S— P— Brigade," we find the very type of young woman that education should eliminate—the type which, as a body, welcomes the latest scandals about well-known figures, such as the breaking-off of engagements, new "finds" by older men students, the latest 'Varsity sheik, and flappers; the finding of very masculine women (incidentally By masculine women). You find them, when there is not more than one or two outsiders present, querying why a certain young student is knitting a gentleman's pullover; why another enters the Common Room, from the outer weather, mark you, with shining eyes, red lips, and rather, well, "dragged-out-of-a-gorse-bush" look about her hair. You find them seeking out the latest, perfectly harmless romances, weaving the men into wicked, shameful creatures, and the females into the lowest type of feminine crudity.

What, Sir, has education done to these women, may I ask? Simply given them a beautifully large vocabulary to express what the lesser educated woman can learn to express by reading disreputable magazines and newspapers, that is, to express simple, wholesome friendships in terms of atrocity, but meanwhile, and this is the point which causes the mischief, overlook, forget, forgive and encourage the greater things, which amount nearly to the category of crime, which are taking place before their very one-sided faces.

Perhaps, Mr. Editor, if you could at least grant a few lines of space in "Smad," you would help into the realm of forgotten things, the innocent who are being made to suffer while the guilty are allowed to go free—and give these educated, and superior type of gossips something really interesting to study.

T. M.

Verb Sap.

Dear "Smad,"—

Just a few notes which may be of use to the new Executive in its worthy emulation of the new broom. Would it be possible to provide a cup, mug, or other suitable utensil in the wash-room in the College for the benefit of those of the thirsty who cannot obtain "tick" down below? Quite seriously, it is 110 joke endeavouring to insinuate one's face under a tap which is parked at the side of a wash-basin whenever a drink of water is desired. Secondly, why not make the Cafeteria tickets 34 or 36 clips for 2/6? I presume one of the most expected valuable results of the ticket inauguration is the increase in sales. The idea is sound—the owner of a ticket does tend to use it oftener than would be the case if he searched his pockets for 2d. or 3d. each time, but do you not think, Mr. Editor, a better result would be obtained if the ticket was rendered more attractive, so that everyone who uses the Cafe page 11 teria at all would not think of being without a ticket? Thirdly, if there were 36 clips for 2/6 it might be conveniently arranged to interchange them with tram tickets on the cable car. A profitable business might be built up then with passengers dropping off at Salamanca for a few clips' worth of refreshments to keep them going over the tunnel halts. Incidentally, this is a case in point. The Cable-Car Company apparently have no fault to find with their long-established system of 12 clips for 1/-, or 36 for 2/6. This is quite analagous, the effect undoubtedly being increased patronage.

Furthermore, with regard to the Library: There are quite a number of books in every section which have strayed from the fold—presumably pinched. Some of these are set books, and apart from its meaning that the absence of one of these necessitates an increase in the number of students compelled to purchase the books, it also means that they have to bring their copies with them if they wish to work from them in the Library. Could the Professorial Board be approached with a view to seeing that all the set books are on the shelves? If a book has been stolen or missing for more than six months, it seems only fair that in the interests of the remaining honest students it should be replaced. Perhaps all set books could be bound in pink with blue stripes, or have some original colour scheme so that they could not be removed unofficially. Perhaps a "broad white band on each cover and their complete registration as week-end books only would improve matters. The students as a whole, I think, would find a few of the missing set books of greater use than some of the new books that enter the shelves. No more, Mr. Editor, I'm going down to nibble at a scone.

Bigger Biscuits.

Electioneering.

Do We Want It?

Dear "Smad,"—

As a result of the election an Executive with a new personnel will control, or attempt to control, the activities of V.U.C. Students.

In a few months' time, students will be grumbling at and criticising the actions of the Executive in seeming forgetfulness that one and all of these officers have been elected by themselves. It seems to me that insufficient interest is taken in this election, which, after all, in many respects is one of the most important events of the year. Freshers, second year students, and many others who hold a vote know nothing of the candidates, have never been in personal contact with them, and very often cast their Tote at random.

May I suggest, therefore, sir, that some system of electioneering be introduced. Let each candidate hold meetings and state his policy if elected, and let the students know their attitude on certain questions. Allow a little canvassing and advertising (through your columns). I feel sure that such an innovation would be effective in no little measure in infusing a little of that College spirit which certain critics state as sadly lacking. Further, besides brightening up the election considerably it would serve the practical purpose of bringing the voters into personal contact with the candidates.

George I. Joseph.

Note.—Freshers do not vote.—Ed.

Haeremai ! Haeremai !!

Saveloys or Pork Pies?

Dear "Smad,"—

I notice that in your issue of April 19th one, "Senex," deplores the tendency among some of the clubs to allow old customs to fade. He particularly refers to the fact that the Haeremai Club has substituted saveloys for pork pies. Apart altogether from the fact that saveloys are decidedly cheaper than pork pies, we would be only too pleased to oblige the gentleman if he could demonstrate to us just how he would heat the aforementioned pies. Cold pies on a cold night are not very appetising, and our Executive shows a marked disinclination to part with the whole of the £1 kitchen deposit if its, urns air used for heating anything except water.

The old Club song is used for convenience. Perhaps "Senex" has not yet attempted to teach the 'Varsity student a new song. If he was present at the Easter functions he may have realised by now that to teach the student anything is no easy task. The Haka was taught every night for weeks, and probably 20 knew it decently. We admit our inconsistencies, but if the fresher perjures his soul in no worse manner than in singing the songs of the old days he'll be a remarkably truthful student.

R. F. East.

Quot Homines.

Dear "Smad,"—

I crave short space in your columns to throw out a suggestion (pardon any mixture of the metaphor) to those who, so turbulently. so rashly, nay, so blusteringly, go flapping the wings of argument in our Common Room, and stir up such a dust and commotion that the air is not only oppressive with the usual narcotic haze (which, after all. is not to be objected to), but is demoniacally rife with the clash of conflicting opinion. "God spare my days" if ever I am caught up in the whirl of these arguments!

With many others—perhaps even your dear old self—I prefer the quiet tete-a-tete while reclined on the Common Room sofa.

Still Small Voice.

Note—The editorial staff has no leisure for tete-a-tete.—Ed.

Library Hours.

Notice Not Noticed.

Dear "Smad,"

In your last issue there appeared a report from the Secretary of the Students' Association in which reference was made to the fact that the Library was open at nights during the vacation but was not well patronised. I would like to point out that no notice that the Library was to be open at nights was posted either in the Hall or on the Library notice-board, and it was by mere chance that a few students did come to hear of it. The same position obtained two years ago, when the Library was open on Labour Day. On account of the poor patronage, however, it was closed on the holiday last year. Surely it is not too much to expect a formal notification when the Library is to be open during other than its usual hours.

"Senex..'

We are informed by the Librarian that there was a notice on one of the boards.—Ed.

page 12

For Rail - Sitters.

Dear "Smad,"—

I make this appeal, concerning College hospitality, to all those who have the good name of Victoria at heart. Anyone attending dances in the Gym. must be struck by the growing gulf fixed between the line of girls along the wall in front of the door and the mob of men around the door itself, both of which remain throughout the greater part of the evening as onlookers only—either because their partners have "slipped them up." or, candidly, because they have no partners. No one could accuse Wiktorians of excessive bashfulness, but on these occasions the majority of the men don't care to receive rebuffs from unknown girls, while, though it is 1392, and Leap Year, so far our girls have not made themselves notorious in this respect!

If the Committee of the body organising the dance were to appoint one, or perhaps several people to act (at different times, if need be) in the capacity of hostesses or M.C.'s, most of this congestion could be avoided and a very much pleasanter evening spent by those many who are, after all, the guests of the organising body. Such a courtesy extended to some whose circumstances prevent them coming into touch with College life to any extent would, besides being warmly appreciated, greatly increase the attendance and help to make the dance in every way a success.

"Beau Nash."

A Womanly Heart.

(The "Manly Heart" of last issue gets his answer.)

Shall I, because, a man is slow,
Die a virgin pure as snow;
Or shall his overweening pride
In heaven condemn me to abide?
This courting's often underdid,
E'en though he's worth a million quid,
For if his love is not for me—
By female tongue, to Hell with he!

He that bears a goodly purse
Sure for that is none the worse;
If he loves me for myself,
Well, I'll love him minus pelf.
But if he seeks to waste ray dough,
I'll pack his traps and off he'll go;
For what care I how he may fare
If for me he does not care?

He may wander in his ride
O'er the broad earth far and wide
For some creature with a "dot,"
Prithee "woman" call her not!
'Tis a puppet man would cull,
Let him have some image dull,
A wooden doll to sweep his floor,
Too unsexed to spurn the bore.

In this year of grace are we
Emancipated, proudly free!
We raise our banner to the skies
And scorn man's feeble abject cries.
"Wait your turn, presumptuous fellow,
You're too callow, you must mellow,"
In this world our sex is peerless.
Ne'er again we'll live Leap Year-less!

A Gentle Reminder...

Not a Gentle Remainder.—Ed.

Annual General Meeting.

At this meeting, on 24th June, the Report was. adopted without discussion.

Questions were asked about the loss on Joy Night to which Mr Reardon—(.Voice: "Are you in favour of abolishing the Oath ?")—replied. The loss was attributed to the prevailing hard times. His replies to Mr. Chorlton's lengthy cross-examination were satisfactory, and after Mr. Bishop's spirited defence of the Committee the discussion lapsed.

It was asked why the Executive Committee books had not been written up earlier, and the Executive, through the chair, accepted the responsibility; the funds were all accounted for. and after further discussion the accounts were adopted subject to completion of the audit.

Examination Fees.

The new Executive were requested to approach the Senate for reductions in fees for examinations and the L.L.B. Degree, and for extension of the time for payment.

Blues.

Moved and carried that the Constitution be altered to permit to permit the award of six Blues to the Harrier Club.

Election.

The results of the election were announced, and pandemonium ensued.

Mr. Bishop expressed the thanks of the Association to Mr. Rollings for the work he had done as president. He traversed the improvements resulting during the period. They were grateful to Mr. Rollings for the conscientious way he had carried out his onerous duties. The meeting carried the vote of thanks in the usual enthusiastic manner.

Votes of thanks were passed to the auditor and to Messrs Perry and Bradshaw for their work on the accounts, and the meeting closed.

After the meeting the outgoing Executive entertained the incoming at supper in the office.

Coming Events.

July 4th. Law Faculty—Trial.
July 8th. Dramatic Club.
July 9th. Science Society's Annual Dance.
July 12th. Debating Society.
July 15th. Dramatic Club.
July 16th. Plunket Medal Contest.
July 19th. Science Society.
July 23rd. Football Club's Annual Dance.
July 22nd. Dramatic Club.
July 26th. Science Society.
July 28th., 29th., 3th. Dramatic Club's Annul Production—Blue Triangle Hall.
July 30th Debating Society.
Aug. 5th Dramatic Club.
Aug. 6th. Haeremai and Basketball Club's Annual Dance.

Business Notices.

Lack of space obliges us to hold certain contributions over till next issue.

Patronise the firms who advertise in your magazine, and don't forget to mention "Smad."

Contributors are requested to sign all contributions, and indicate if a nom-de-plume is to be used.

The next issue of "Smad" will a pear on August 9th. Closing date for contributions July 30th.

  • Editor: E. C. Fussell. 'Phone 54-820.
  • Sub-Editor: Miss E. A. Plank. 'Phone 44-811
  • Reporter: A. Wansbrough. 'Phone 40-227.

Printed at the Printing Works of Messrs White and Sons. Printers and Bookbinders, 58 Aitken Street for V.U.C.S.A. Students' Association.