New Lecturer in Botany

Dr. Newman Interviewed

"What do you think of New Zealand, Dr. Newman?" said "Smad."

"I say, that's not a fair question. I've only just arrived here."

"Of what Universities are you a graduate?"

"I am an M.Sc., Sydney, and Ph.D. London."

"What are your impressions of London University?"

"It consists of several colleges scattered throughout London, separated from each other by distances up to two or three miles. Hostels are attached to the University and the colleges but most of the students live in boarding houses, and because of this do not participate as much in University life as the residential students. Of course, I am unable to give an authoritative statement as to the manners and customs of the undergraduates, as I had contact mostly with graduates, being engaged in research work."

"Do you think there is any great difference between the English people and ourselves?"

"No; I found the English to be people much like ourselves, although they do not mix as easily as we do, but even that depends on where you are and who you are. There was one thing, however, that struck me about the English Universities and that was the existence of societies supporting the various political parties. Party clubs were being introduced into Sydney University when I left for England in 1929, but they were not favourably regarded by many as they broke the unity of spirit of University life. Anyway, there have been great changes. I belong to the war group, that is, I was brought up and spent my later school years during the war. We lived in uncertainty, and every morning rising with the possibility in our minds either of victory or defeat, or of some momentous change which would entirely change our lives. The following generation knew only the victory and seem, to their predecessors, cocksure. Perhaps this opinion is just another version of "Things aren't what they used to be.'"

"What is the state of public opinion towards the Universities in Australia?"

"It fluctuates according to the proximity of Festival Week."

"What are the modern trends in Botany?"

"Well, a lot of work is being done on the study of vegetation. The difference between the study of vegetation and study of plants is roughly the difference between studying society and the individual. This branch of 'botany could be popularly described as plant sociology. Botanists are studying the habits of plants in the aggregate, and their effect on the balance of nature. Needless to say this is of great importance as to foodstuffs industry, agriculture, etc. Erosion, dust storms and floods may be prevented by a study and application of the principles found in the scientific study of vegetation (genetics). For instance, where the climate does not suit the plant, the plant may possibly be modified by breeding to suit the climate, As exampled by quick-ripening wheat for regions near the Arctic circle. Of ultimate importance for a proper understanding of life processes and activities of plants is the study of their form and structure, but this I am afraid, is too technical for the majority of your readers . . ."

At this point "Smad" took the hint and quietly left Dr. Newman to the contemplation of the cycadofilicinean horrors he has to prepare for the advanced Boanty Laboratory .