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There is a conceit, especially common in newspaper circles, that New Zealand newspapers are of a very high standard. We have been told hundreds of times through the press of our good fortune in possessing such unbiased journals. Reporters have even boasted of this superiority to Bernard Shaw. Yet every student will leave this controversy over freedom of speech with his appreciation of New Zealand newspapers confined to the exquisite artistry of the heading and the super-fine quality of the paper. We have been taught just how biased a paper can be, despite a mock semblance of gravity and fairness. Had Bernard Shaw seen a complete file of the references to student freedom as they have appeared in our Wellington press, he would not even have praised their headings or their paper; he would merely have pointed out that most people leave a kindergarten aged between 6 and 8 years. He did describe institutions such as the press would have our University as "booby-traps," and places which should be " turned into mental hospitals."
Especially in Wellington we have long felt the. heavy restraint of public disapproval and suspicion. Many have railed at its injustice; but we can expect nothing else from a public that has no knowledge of the University except through the grossly partisan excerpts, sponsored perhaps by the envy of mediocrity, that appear in our press. Very rarely does a report of any student activity that is above the mark of insipidity appear without an attached paragraph or a sub-leader on "contumacious" and "dangorous" students. Like an old woman, the press must have the last say; it cannot leave the report of facte to speak for itself.
This lack of sympathy is all the more disappointing in that the press was one of the first institutions to struggle for that freedom of expression which we students are now claiming. The University and the newspapers have fought together for the sacred principle; they have gained it together. But now, when one is in danger again and seems last, the other, not content with merely turning its back, sides with the enemy to preserve its own safety. Now that his privilege is assured, he would see the other institution locked under control.
If freedom of the press were to be assailed, there would be one long wail of vituperation and argument. Now that freedom of student expression is assailed, there are soft pats on the back for the reactionary. Yet the same arguments the papers would propound in their favour we bring forward in ours; the same principles they would lay down, we adhere to.
"Look after your university colleges, but cease cramming students with useless knowledge. Students must understand Russia and Germany. They must have knowledge on the subjects they have to deal with. Karl Marx is more important than Adam Smith, and I would have all students examined on Trotsky's History of the Revolution and on the policy of Stalin. I would cease teaching them on the past era-something which is supposed to be knowledge but is not knowledge at all."
"Nor was the solicitude of the government for the spiritual welfare of the student body limited to the requirement of monthly certificates of Confession and of secret reports from the Faculty concerning the private habits and tendencies of individual students; with almost an excess of paternal vigilance the Authorities required that the chins of the undergraduates should be examined for signs of any untoward growth. Beards were a symptom of incipient republicanism.
Editor : C. M. P. Brown.
Sub-Editors : R. S. Odell, J. Aimers.
Sports Sub-Editor : J. White.
Reporters : Miss Gwenda Norman-Jones, K Tahiwi, H. O. Wansborough.
Business : R. Bradshaw and L. O. Desborough.
"Smad" extends a hearty though rather belated welcome to the two new lecturers this year—Dr. A. C. Keys and Mr. H. R. Fountain. Mr. Foden has also taken over lectures in accountancy law subjects. And the best advice we can give them is that they should be continual and ardent subscribers to "Smad."
"That woman can get the better of man in any circumstances."
Results (marriages): Launa Marshall and Ralph Bannister.
(Engagements) : Tim Lambourne and Dora Priestly.
"Smad wishes to congratulate these Wikitorians, and hopes they will have every happiness in the future.
"Salvete victores Wikikorienses"—i.e. We congratulate our recent Senior Scholars, Miss M. Boyd (Zoology), Messrs I. D. Campbell (Law), L. Lyons (French), and K. J. McNaught (Geology). We note that three of these were resident at Weir last year; but we can't blame Miss Boyd for not making the fourth.
We understand that the Court of Convocation is taking as its motto: "He was dead, but he wouldn't lie down."
Don Currie is to be congratulated on breaking all international records by entering 'Varsity as a freshman and possessing a perfect 7 asider. Oh, that the mighty should follow in his steps! Its efficiency as a beer-strainer testifies to its genuine home-grown quality.
Mr. C. S. Plank, winner of 1/3 in the Common Room at bridge, insisted that his win would not affect his current mode of life in the slightest.
A lady visitor to Christchurch recently stated that judging from her experience she would say that Christchurch well deserved its title of being "the loving city."
Perhaps this explains the Tournament team's record.
When the Salamanca Parrot, rather rowdy in its screeching
(As a young and ardent parrot well may be)
Flapped its wings and ruffed its feathers, while allegedly upreaching
For the Fruit of Truth that leads to Liberty, Lo, there came his aged master, robed in academic trapping,
And counselled by the sages of the Press, Saying: "Stop your naughty flapping, while these gentleman are napping.
And squawk your views on Life a litle less!"
So they clipped the eager wings and they slit the fearless tongue.
Then resumed their creed-drugged slumber as before;
While upon the Tree of Truth where the Fruit of Reason hung Swings a withered apple, rotten to the core.
The last month has been one of quietness—before Tournament, owing to training, and afterwards a concentrated course of recovery from seasickness, etc. However, several members of the House have excelled themselves. "Porky" Hall failed to make the Tournament team; "Fat" Mason did not win the 100 yards at Tournament; " Nobby " Donovan did not win the shot put. nor the 220. and "Pug" Willis was cleaned up in the boxing. We are glad to say. however, that Stan Fade dead—heated for first in the mile walk and covered the House with glory by winning his N.Z.U. Blue. Well done, Stan! Geo. Sainsbury, showing latent prowess, annexed the 33 1-3 yards men's swimming handicap. This boy will go a long way if he sticks to his training.
A visitor to the House during Easter was our old friend "No Confidence Artie," who, in a few well-worded letters, asked some pertinent questions of the House Committee. We wonder if he was the moving power behind the addition of Epsom Salts to the sugar supplies.
Alas! We are losing our claim to antiquity. Our ruins are going! ! In their place we will have a bungalow with every modern convenience—e.l., h. and c., w.c., w.p.b., d.v.w.p. and C.M.G.
Monday, 23rd April—Presidential Address to Science Society by Mr. J. A. D. Nash, M.Sc., on "The Trend of Science."
April 28th, 30th and 1st May.—Cappicade (nee Extravaganza).
May 5th—Unveiling of the new portraits in the Library.
December 25th—Next year: Christmas.
It is time this question of fighting was dragged out once more from the cupboard where it was put. For a little while yet we may speak about it, then we shall have to dance to the tune the Big Boys play in this as in any other theme they choose.
It isn't any longer a hypothetical question whether one would fight for King and Country. Mars, his nasty face is now seen leering within our gates, and some are mistaking him for Sir Galahad.
Territorial ism is becoming active at. Victoria, and the Territorials are being conditioned to the right sentimental response whenever King or Country are mentioned. Dear old country—right or wrong—fight for her—noble sacrifice—dulce et decorum !
The growth of the military spirit at the College is a very good indication of the enfeebled state of our intellectual life. One seldom finds the thinkers, the people with any human philosophy at all, among the warriors. It is a commonplace that soldiers are not paid to think, and your animal man makes a very real soldier.
Consider our soldiers. The freshers are easily explained. They have just come from school. They have never heard that educated people no longer regard war as the rosy thing that school history books paint it. And, besides, if one has been a sergeant in the school cadets the impetus towards the territorial ranks is very strong.
I have heard our soldiers talking. This one likes soldiering because of the camps—an extra holiday; that one is a good shot and likes the shooting; but they all like the uniforms. The attractions of a shining uniform in which to strut around are irresistible. Why else do all small boys want to be tram conductors ?
The mere purpose of soldiering, killing other men, doesn't worry them much. If they do think about it, they picture themselves bravely defending hearths and homes against a wicked invader. They don't, or don't want to and won't, see it as murder which they are pushed into committing because their masters wanted a war. Perceiving this would proclaim them the dupes they are, so they shut their eyes.
If we went to war with Japan, it would be for British industrialists, the armament firms, and to oblige the organisations inspiring the anti-Japanese propaganda so evident in our Press, but just spread a little bit of "King and Country" about, pepper in the eyes, and your men will march to battle to fight nobly. Some one said "for King and Country."
I have heard some of our soldiers aver they were pacificists, but that they wanted Security—verily the antonym of Peace. Isn't it clear to them that security is the bug which rises to blight all efforts towards peace. Well, just look at Europe.
You may be able to navigate an argument thus far with a militarist; but he is just biding his time. He knows a rock which he thinks will split your ship. Before long, he will call in your sister. Last year it was Mr. Fortune's sister.
"What would you do if you saw a great, bulking enemy soldier molesting your own sister?"
You would reply, with Beverley Nicholls, "Well, naturally, I'd shoot him, if I had a gun . . ."
" And yet........."
"Just a minute. I ought to add that I should equally shoot a British soldier, if I saw him doing the same thing. Which makes your question rather silly, because it shows it up as a question which is entirely irrelevant, a question which has nothing to do with war, but is merely a matter of common humanity."
It isn't possible to deal with the whole field of argument here, but I think that with security and sisters the root arguments have been touched. I have said enough, I think, to show that, of all places, a University College is no stamping ground for Mars. If you want a peace which is not the peace of death, you won't encourage people in your midst who teach " si vis pacem para bellum." Every machine gun a feather for the breast of the dove.
There is something almost ludicrous in the epidemic of banning student magazines that has spread over the Southern Hemisphere. The Authorities remind us of old women chasing around after a flock of hens and occasionally grabbing a few tail feathers but never getting near enough to capture a bird. "Farrago" is the latest publication to be added to that list of "glorious martyrs "—Phoenix, Spike, Sirocco, etc.
Can't someone write an article that will secure a professorial ban for "Smad"? It need not be very radical—just a mention of Marx, a touch of cynicism and a few facts, sufficient to start the welfare League in his usual reaction. And then Honour!
The banning and censorship of journals is serious in a big community where this is the only real method of communication between large sections of the community, but it is a triviality in a University where what is banned in print will be spoken more forcefully; for conversation is a method of communication that will reach every member of a University—and in a shorter time than it takes to print a paper.
What should ye do, then, should ye suppress all this flowery crop of knowledge and new light sprung up and yet springing daily in this city, should ye set an oligarchy of twenty ingrossers over it to bring a famine upon our minds again, when we shall know nothing but what is measured to us by their bushel ?"
Everywhere throughout the civilised world, we see a spirit of unrest amongst the mass of the peolive—an unrest which will not be quieted until a consocial conditions in which the mass of the people live-an unrest which will not be queieted until a condition of social justice has been established.
If all mankind minus one were of one opinion, and only one person were of the contrary opinion, mankind would be no more justified in silencing that one person than he, if he had the power, would be justified in silencing mankind.
Nothing is more important in a University than freedom of speech and thought. Freedom of speech and thought have given the world everything good that humanity has to-day. One would have thought that the battle for freedom of thought and speech, once won, would be won forever. Eternal vigilance and the necessity to fight again appeared to be the price of that liberty. Although we are living in a dangerous age, I believe there is much less danger in allowing free discussion of all policies than in driving it underground.
Mr. Justice Ostler said that the whole tone of the magazine ("Student") had been disloyal, not only to the Empire, but to everything they held sacred. He had not exaggerated the position when he had stated that the question called for some action.
"What else is a university for? If sex is not discussed decently and publicly in a university it will be discussed privately and indecently. I repeat what I said the other day : the people who think university debating societies should be muzzled are those who think that a university's business is to proselytise for the Church of England. They do not know what education means; and they do not know what religion means."
"Can any respectably-minded person justify the sight of a naked gentleman, clad in a furry bath towel rampant over a sheik couchant? To my mind this suggests nothing short of a piece of nudist propaganda, coupled with an incitement for innocent young things to make their first acquaintance with vicious newspaper writers at an Ominously 'Orrible Oriental Orgy," writes " Sanitas," in Canta.
But, alas, this bestial scourge of nudism is threatening our own Alma Mater (figuratively, of course). It may come as a shock to the delicate-minded among us to learn that in the zoology classes animals of both sexes, without clothes, are examined under the microscopes by students of both sexes (presumably with clothes on). Surely we must study this scabrous upheaval of latent demoralisation and induce an S.C.M. working bee to make clothes for the relevant parts of the animals concerned. What impresses us most is not so much the blatant indecency with which this class swaggers abroad beneath its load of putrescence, as the cynical immorality with which it revels in its abhorrent activities.
And then there are the feelings of the animals to consider. How they writhe with chaste modesty at the callous brutality of an inquisitive mortal (of the opposite sex).
A "Smad" representative tactfully sidled up to a prominent zoologician and asked him to explain the grossness, the unparalled enormity, the apalling fetor of his work.
He smiled and offered us a look at his best exhibit. Hurriedly we declined; and we learned that this class is already full—the devil take it!
The Dramatic Club representatives were engaged in an animated discussion with the Exec. on the question of royalties.
Dramatic Club: This year's main production will be one of Shakespeare's plays.
Bob Bradshaw (ingenuously): Do you have have to pay royalties for that?
And Even The Exec. Saw The Joke!
Mr. McCallum said that the only way to deal with the boys was to rusticate them and vindicate the honour of the College. Such punishment might seem harsh, but it would act as a deterrent to others. After all, that was the object of punishment.
If Mr. Scotney were in Heidelberg, steel helmets, bombs, and concentration-camps would not baulk him. It is seldom that students have such splendid opportunities of witnessing an exhibition of the Hitler method as Herr Scotney demonstrated at the recent Debating Society and Labour Club meetings. The Great Example himself could scarcely have gagged the unruly element at the Labour Club as did the Local Product, while Hitler's methods lack that finnesse and tact displayed by the chairman at the Annual General Meeting of the Debating Society.
At the Labour Club, Mr. Scotney was confronted with a very mixed audience, consisting of those who had come with the genuine intention of fostering a new club, and those who had "looked in for the fun of the thing." This latter element, with its perverted sense of humour and general farmer-intellect, is becoming too common at club meetings, and Mr. Scotney is to be congratulated for the skilful manner in which he outmanoeuvred their stupidity.
The "fun" began when Mr. Edgley, with his accustomed genius, wit, and originality, moved by way of amendment to Clause I. of the Constitution that the name be changed to the "Conservative Club," a name as misplaced and ludicrous as Mr. Edgley's humour. It was then that the chairman, by voluble evasions and forceful manner, saved the club from an ignoble end at the hands of these irresponsibles by talking a majority out of an amendment, which they had a constitutional right to put.
Finally, after further wrangling, the Constitution was passed by 34 votes to 24. Stout work, Mr. Chairman !
Application for affiliation with the Students' Association was the next matter to come under fire, and after the somewhat misdirected incoherences of the McGhie in support of the Free Discussions Club, the motion was put. A sharp exchange of views passed between the chairman and Mr. Desborough when the voting disclosed a majority of one against the application for affiliation, and Mr. Scotney, exercising both a deliebrate and casting vote in an unconstitutional direction, declared the motion carried. Mr. Desborough hotly demanded a divsion, and with this confirmation the Labour Club gained leave to apply for affiliation. The meeting was not a peaceful one, but a sharp-witted autocrat in the chair robbed the duller wits of any satisfaction.
And now, Mr. Scotney, we must plead guilty of a despicable piece of journalese in an attempt to draw attention to this report. We withdraw our insinuations of any Nazi, and even quasi-Nazi sentiments, and congratulate you on your extremely capable management of an unruly obstruction which lacked even the quality of wit.
* * * * *
* * * *
"Ha, a new club!" sniffed our detective representative as he threw his eye at a captivating photo displayed in the Hall. An excellent exposure we thought it! Hurriedly he looked up his index of clubs at P. and a ¼ hour's search revealed that the Photographic Club had not existed before.
Careful examination of the dust in the Hall revealed the fact that Odell and Whitworth, the co-criminals, were discussing a "tea and toast" in the Grand. We tacked up and started an interview.
"About photography," we murmured, "I suppose you take photos?"
"Yes, that is the idea," they admitted with Olympian condescension.
"Night photos?"
"No, we use a dark room."
"And what do you take?" we questioned anxiously.
But they smirked, and would not give secrets away. However, they issued an invitation to all who missed the first meeting to communicate with the Secretary and join up.
Thankful for deliverance, we staggered down the gangway at Lyttelton under banners bearing signs such as "'Ale 'Itler!" Meanwhile the wharf was enlivened by 30 or more "Nazis" in the Canterbury colours, and we heard C.U.C.'s new haka for the first time—a most successful welcome, although somewhat upsetting to those members of the F.S.U. who had travelled down with us—at the other end of the ship. At Christ church we received an even more boisterous welcome, and were soon dispatched to our kind hosts and hostesses. All teams met in the noble College Hall for the welcome in the afternoon. The presence of Mr. A. E. Flower, who took part in the first Tournament 32 years ago, pointed the contrast between the venerable appearance of the buildings and the youth of New Zealand and its University.
The following morning was taken up with preliminaries in boxing, tennis, and swimming.
The boxing team did very well to have five finalists. O.U., A.U.C. and C.U.C. having three each. Some of the decisions were close, but we felt confident that we would regain the Boxing Shield from O.U. Max Willis and Angus Russell, although defeated, were by no means disgraced.
At tennis, our men came through well in their events, but the girls were not so fortunate. However, they went down gamely before more seasoned opponents, and this year's experience should be invaluable.
The rowing was held in perfect weather; the race started from Governor's Bay and finished off Corsair Bay. It quickly resolved itself into a procession, as A.U.C., after losing ground from a bad start, quickly gained the lead, and, rowing perfectly, paddled home by a wide margin from C.U.C., who were almost swamped by a misguided launch. O.U. were still less fortunate, and were swamped half-way, but, as one member remarked, that was only the 5th time he had been swamped in an eight. Better luck next time, Otago! We congratulate A.U.C. on winning their first boat race since the series commenced eight years ago.
We congratulate O.U. on their retaining the Boxing Shield after an exciting evening's boxing—the fate of the Shield turning on the result of the Heavyweight bout. O.U. won three bouts, A.U.C. and C.U.C. two each, V.U.C. none. We were disappointed, but have no reason to feel disgraced. Armour, Kent and Meek boxed exceptionally well. Murray seemed somewhat tired after a strenuous bout in the morning, and M. O'Connor's gameness will long be remembered in his fight against C. Steele, of A.U.C., who is to be congratulated on again winning the Scientific Medal. However, we had not gained a Tournament point, and all Doug. Burns could say in reply to Charlie Plank's anxious ring from Wellington was: "Nothing to report. Patient doing as well as can be expected."
On Sunday we learned that O.U. had won the Haslam Shooting Shield and all four practices. The drive was a most enjoyable affair over Cashmere Hills, past Governor's Bay (C.U.C. rowers broke all records over this part of the journey), over the Port Hills to Sumner and afternoon tea in the Town Hall, liberally adorned with "Smoking Prohibited" signs somewhat obscured by the prevailing clouds of smoke. The S.C.M. Tea and Church Service was well attended and rounded off another warm and pleasant day.
Monday was another beautiful day. Records commenced to fall thick and fast at the Athletics, no less than 7 being broken. First, A. T. Anderson (C.U.C.) reduced his own record in the 440 hurdles to 56 2-5th.; then H. M. S. Dawson broke C. E. Low's
Basketball, although not up to last year's standard was as exciting as usual. O.U. defeated V.U.C., 12-8, after a ragged game, in which neither team played up to form. Our players improved, to win a close game against C.U.C. by 9-7. After a very close game, A.U.C. won the Basket Shield by defeating V.U.C., 9-7.
When valiant deeds are sung and heroes-praised
In silent grief we shall recall their name Men whom Victoria taught, and Weir cooks raised,
Sent forth with blaze of trumps to win their fame.
For the strong in the field,
The splendour of noon,
To the victors the shield
—To Victoria the spoon.
When victory and defeat no more are told. In Christchurch bars their prowess still will ring;
And Southern maidens growing sere and old Remember them by many a little thing. Oh, why did they yield,
Despairing so soon?
To the victors the Shield
—To Victoria the Spoon.
Our players showed the benefit of the morning's match play. Brilliant shooting in goal, notably by Joan Watson, combined with splendid defensive work by the whole team, with Mary Mules outstanding, had A.U.C. badly rattled at times. We congratulate C.U.C., to whom Mary Mules will be a decided acquisition this year, on their first win at basketball for eight years. This was scored against O.U. by 10-6 in an extremely fast game.
The swimming was as noisy as usual in the evening. D. H. Symes (O.U.) won the three free style events in hollow fashion, equalling his own record in the 100yds. and breaking Lindsay's record in the 220yds. Misses M. Gillies and J. Thomson, of Auckland, and Miss A. Morris, of C.U.C., shared the women's events, and the Relay was won by A.U.C. after a thrilling race. C. I. W. Archibald was the only V.U.C. swimmer to secure a place, being 3rd. in the 220.yds. Breaststroke. Mason did very well, in view of the high standard shown, and should do better next year. The diving troupe's exhibition was most amusing, but the honours went to the C.U.C. lad who dived in fully clad from high in the gallery, and landed with anything but a sickening thud. We cannot commend the other allegedly humorous idea of pushing a man into the water from a girder in the roof.
Our men were eliminated in the semi-finals of the men's singles on Tuesday, and our two pairs in the mixed doubles suffered a like fate. Enid Cook and Page did very well indeed considering their youth and lack of Tournament experience against Miss Sherris and Barrer, the respective singles champions, who were easily the strongest pair in this event. C.U.C. retained the Tennis Cup, with 18 points, A.U.C. being runners-up with 8, V.U.C third with 6, O.U. scoring 3 points.
A most enjoyable Tournament, favoured throughout with glorious weather, concluded with the Tournament Ball on Tuesday night. The orchestra was marvellous, the claret cup incredible, especially the second variety, the partners superb. It is no wonder that the Ball was continued all over Christchurch till a very late hour.
We were boisterously farewelled, and arrived back-not a whit down-hearted, to be greeted in succession by ironical cheers, demands for production of our cutlery, and the white flag of surrender half-mast in the Gym.
A.U.C. were reluctantly farewelled, and so Tournament ended, with C.U.C. winners of the Tournament Shield by a wide margin, and V.U.C. winners of the Wooden Spoon by an even wider margin from O.U.
To our hosts at C.U.C. we can only record our grateful thanks. Our billetters combined with the lads and lassies to give us a wonderful time. Many a V.U.C. will weep homesick tears into his pillow when he sighs for those joyous days spent in Rolleston House or the Clarendon, or anywhere else you know of even better than I.
How fares America under the blue eagle? What does the N.R.A. stand for? In the face of a host of conflicting reports, in this far-off place it's been hard to pierce through the columns of cable and editorial fog to put together a coherent picture. Inflation, codes, regulations, strikes—NRA, CWA, CCC—what does this alphabet soup mean? And—most important—has it helped America to recover? Well, by now it may help us to know the popular American answer to the question: What does NRA stand for? It's "Nuts, raspberries and applesauce."
Broadly and most generally speaking, we can distinguish three main factors or tendencies which brought on the crash. In Roosevelt's New Deal there can also be found three essential characteristics. And it's by no stretch of fact that we can link the two pairs up, so that we see Roosevelt's policies accentuating the very tendencies of capitalism which resulted in the crash. Far from being a true step toward planned production, toward socialism, the New Deal is capitalism using the same old cards.
Firstly, and most spectacularly, NRA has meant inflation. As soon as the brakes on the credit engines went off, last April, away she went—the dollar soared. When it came to earth it had been depreciated by 40 per cent, of its gold content. Production shot up for a while—from its lowest level of the slump, and so did prices. They've stayed up—after a year of NRA the American price-level has risen by 18.5 per cent. So that the masses of the people are even less able to buy goods than they were before. The NRA has failed to restore purchasing-power. Instead it. has intensified the reckless expansion of credit—a primary cause of the crisis.
Secondly, the tendency toward monopoly, to the concentration of capital, to trustification, to the elimination of competition, and thus of the smaller businessmen, has been increased. America under NRA represents State Capitalism, with Big Business, In the form of the trusts, dominating the scene. All anti-trust legislation has been swept away by the N.R.A. Only on these conditions was the New Deal acceptable to the American capitalists.
Under the NRA there has been a great stimulus towards the further mechanisation of industry. This is the third factor potent in causing the capitalist crash—the displacement of men by machines. Under the NRA there is every inducement for industry to improve its technique. But far from the re-employment of some of the 15 million jobless Americans which Roosevelt said NRA would see, the displacement process has become more acute. The figures are startling. Taking the But employment only went back to 65. (Production subsequently dropped sharply). Stuart Chase has computed that if, under the NRA, production regains its
Thus with the breach between prices and purchasing-power widened, with the home market hopelessly crippled, with a huge army of unemployed, American Capitalists find most avenues for the disposal of their products closed. They are forced to depreciate their currency in the hope of gaining markets abroad. But other nations are also playing at this game. Every move each makes for its national recovery is a direct blow to the interests of other countries (Roosevelt broke up the World Economic Conference in order to push his own monetary programme). The imperialist fight for markets can pass at any moment into armed warfare. The NRA makes full provision for war. It specifies a terrific heightening of armament expenditure, establishment of semi-military camps for the unemployed, and a reorganisation of the internal defence of the U.S.S. As John Strachen says: "An inexorable destiny is making the rulers of America take step after step on along the road which leads to the next war."
—Pilate.
When Mr. G. B. Shaw arrived in Christchurch last Saturday he was presented with a copy of the C.U.C. weekly paper "Canta" and he was asked for his opinion.
"Oh, yes," said Mr. Shaw. "Yon sent me a number of it. An excellent paper. I used it to wrap up some books."
Unabashed Canta's representative asked if he would answer the questionnaire they had sent him.
Smiling broadly Mr. Shaw replied. " Probably my wife is wrapping up another book."
We walked in the gardens
On Saturday night.
With many "beg pardons" We walked in the gardens.
Her heart, always hardens Beneath the moonlight.
We Walked in the gardens On Saturday night.
Listen while they fall. The fallen? Why, the Welfare League, Canon James, the College Council, the Professorial Board, as represented by the nine reactionary individuals who didn't like the letter the Debating Society was so proud of.
Electoral history was made that night. We have always wondered what the Committee did with the pennies we slavishly handed to the doorkeeper at debates. Robbing kids' money-boxes we thought it. But the secret is out.
"All those who think this letter is a jolly good effort, say Aye," says the Chairman.
"Aye," chants everyone.
"No," respond the nine.
In a corner Mr. Coyle and Mr. Brown work out a little sum, counting out more pennies.
"The Ayes have it by 11s. 8d., Mr. Coyle informs the Chairman. Chairman Scotney breathes a sigh of relief. The system has worked, and wasn't going to need every finger and toe he could scratch together to do the counting. Past was the danger of his having to cast a vote.
It was different, of course, at the Labour Club Meeting. There he could be profligate with his votes as they didn't cost 1d. a time at an assembly which scorns vile pelf.
Voting by pennies is a good thing. It eliminates the temptation of double voting.
But who shall have them all?
We have much pleasure in introducin' to listeners the world-famed assistant announcer at 4YA. Nesbit writes up a full confession, specially for "Smad," in which he laid his soul so bare that we had to cover it over again, or parts of it. Here is a sample:—
"The Edinburgh of the South (Heaven help Edinburgh) is very like the city "Suprema a Situ," save that its motto is one word only—"Speights." Set in billowy hills at the end of a shallow fiord, Dunedin innocently spoils the scenery that might have been . . . .
"The University of Otago. A magnificent pile reeking of money and Presbyterianism—but despite this and the proximity of at least a dozen churches the students are students! But the University Library? What a disappoinment! It is not more than the size of the English and French sections of the V.U.C. Library. And the Law Section consists of—Four Shelves"
A motion protesting against the limitation of freedom of discussion in the University was passed at the opening meeting of the Debating Society. I should be pleased if I might have an opportunity of giving briefly my reasons for voting against the motion.
The definition of "freedom of speech" may be wide in scope, but its true meaning as a catchword of British liberty cannot cover unrestrained outbursts such as have been perpetrated by members of our Society. Attacks on religion and the laws of morality arising out of debates on these subjects have caused the present ban, and to suggest that licentious and indecent utterances can be justified by reference to the doctrine of "freedom of speech" is ridiculous in the extreme.
Only people with experience and knowledge of life could possibly debate such subjects in a proper manner. These subjects are too important to be discussed at our debates where rhetorical effect is everything, and where half the speakers have not prepared their subject. Spiritual matters are essentially serious and personal, and although there is no reason why a man should not express his religious beliefs, this is quite a different matter from debating them. I maintain that no subject can be dealt with seriously at our debates for at the best they are good nurtured Lear gardens.
To search after truth by discussion is one thing, but it is surely wrong to make it possible for religious and moral subjects, affecting the deepest things in human life, to be dragged through the mire of invective and ridicule in public debate.
Would you allow me to offer through your rotten little magazine (adequate adjectives from G.B.S.) a few thoughts for its limited clientele of a few comely maidens, a few handsome innocents of men and those other students who all comprise our dear University College?
You note that I say University College?—it seems to be a word that has rapidly changed in meaning. It used to imply those who were looked upon as our leaders, our hopes, our intelligentsia—dear laddies and lassies—but they seem to have lost those essentials of leadership and intelligence, an appreciation of proportion, an ability to clarify issues, and a capacity to act on their own initiative.
You doubt me, sir? Think of and remember the Annual General Meeting of the Victoria University College Debating Society for the academic year
I would suggest in all seriousness. Sir, that the above case is just an indication of a remarkable state which has arisen in our College. When one considers the motives of the contestants of the issue of freedom of speech one can see in much of the student advocation a remarkable case of group feeling aroused by a few individuals appealing to the ever present desire for self-assertion possessed by the young.
To your readers. Sir, I make an appeal to resume their status as University men and women—not mere chattels.
And now the older residents have been asked to leave so that more and yet more freshers can be made grist to the Mill of Unthought, called Weir. We might have known that the ruler (not Dr. Sutherland, but His Majesty the Merry Monarch Mediocrity) would manage to exile most of those who used to oppose his rule. For last year the steadiness, the sanity and the sense of a few moderately matured minds provided a little leaven—but now we have practically only the unleavened lump of freshers who haven't learnt to think and civil servant caricatures who can never learn.
Let the sensitive resident brave the dining-room for the occasional nutriment or the common-room for
rara avis—a resident who can make interesting conversation.
Surely it is better that a few freshers should quarrel lividly with lazy land-ladies and perhaps even succumb in the boarding-house struggle for existence, than that dozens of freshers and other junior students should have their vitality sapped by stagnation in the pride of their youth. For such is the fate of the many who take the mill for a fair sample of University tradition and adult life. I fear mightily for many an immature mind that the Mill is moulding. I fear not for my own—for I seek the company of the very few who are in the Mill but not of it, who stand aloof and are cantankerous enough and old enough to be able to oppose the Merry Miller's sovereignty.
Why am I still there ? Frankly, because my body loves hot showers. But my soul prays for the days when I, too, shall be sent a billet doux to tell me that I am not one of those for whom the Mill was intended. Till then, the student stands by, eagerly hoping—"How long?"
"Smad's" faith in the team was justified as it headed the second section of the Championship table and completed the season with two good victories. The side is composed of more younger players than usual and great things can be expected next season. Bill Tricklebank after magnificent bowling against Hutt brought his "bag" of wickets up to 60 in the last game, which was the best performance in senior cricket. Well done Trick. Doug. Dean approaching the 40 mark also did splendidly. Those promoted during the season did very well, and "Smad" congratulates Ken. Struthers particularly on his success with the bat—getting on the honours board second game in senior' is good going.
1. Sex Debate : That women can get the better of men in any circumstances.
In the great words of someone at the back of the hall, woman came after man and she has been after him ever since. In other words she has him on the run.
When necessary, however, she can show him a clean pair of heels. Nay more, if one can believe the stocking advertisements.
It is in these incidentals of her attire that woman's victory lies, and lies and lies. A poem written in the days before the Rudyard ceased from Kipling started off somewhat like this:
"A woman there was and she wore a hat (Even as you or I.) The crown was low and the brim was flat, 'Twas covered with onions and things like that And on top perched a vampire bat (With a button for its eye.)
We do not see hats like that nowadays. The vampire is kept strictly under the hat. But the point to be made is that it is a great victory for women to have the things they wear on their heads called hats.
Can anyone doubt that woman is queen of the earth when she is seen striding up and down a public-beach attired in something that looks like a cross between a postage stamp and a pair of bootlaces ? Her manner says, look at me. But who dares, remembering what happened to the poor chap that stared at Lady Godiva when she appeared in the medieval equivalent of the modern bathing costume, still a lot of sheep about.
An illustration from the Great War: The troops feared most by the enemy were the Highlanders. Why? Because their garments were feminine.
One of the speakers said there were more women than men. The New Zealand Year Book shows the contrary. This is not wholly Cow Country. Judging from the voting on certain resolutions at the Annual Meeting of the Debating Society, there are still a lot of sheep about.
The last word on the subject of this debate was written by Mark Twain. At the close of the "Diary of Adam," he depicts Adam, a grizzled old man, sitting disconsolately by the grave of Eve and saying. "Wherever she was, there was Eden."
Could Eve have said that of Adam ? No. She might rather have said, "He was the only man in the world for me, but gosh! he did raise Cain!"
The Swimming Club have had a very active season and several promising swimmers were discovered. The interest of members was kept alive by water polo, Life-saving and weekly handicap races. The Points Cup for Handicap races was won by Carlyon with 27 points. Two teams were entered in the Centre Water Polo Competition and the A Team was placed third.
A well-patronised carnival was held at Thorndon Baths late in the season at which an interesting and entertaining programme was run off.
We especially congratulate Miss Peggy Price for winning the N.Z. Ladies' Diving Championship. It is the first time since
The Seniors will have a much improved back line this year owing to the presence of Rae, the Otago provincial and N.Z.U. half-back, behind the scrum. The other backs with the exception of Cormack, are all available. The Club is very disappointed that several of our last year's forwards have gone over to other clubs; it is an unexpected and disloyal blow at a time when there were prospects of a vast improvement in our form this year.
This leaves room for the keenest and fittest of our younger forwards, who may infuse more keenness and dash into the play and bring the Seniors well into the limelight. Members of the Club are not dismayed and with Roy Diederich as captain, are keener than ever to bring the team into the first grade.
A very good practice of all grades was held on the 7th. April and remarkably good form displayed; we hope the numerous abrasions will be well cured before the next practice.
We wish to congratulate Stan Eade heartily on his dead heating for first place in the mile walk at the Tournament. Had his nose been as long as the swing of his hips was graceful he would have been an easy winner—but he will do it next year.
The Annual Meeting of the N.Z.U.S.A., attended by delegates from the University centres during Tournament. disposed of a lengthy agenda in business-like fashion. The existing name of "National Union of Students" was altered to that of "N.Z. University Students' Association," as being one move in keeping with the objects of the organisation.
A motion was passed unanimously to the effect that steps be taken to have the report of the
Immediately the Rugby and Hockey Councils ratify the proposals, the N.Z.U.S.A. will assume control of the granting of N.Z.U. Blues, and steps will be taken to see that uniformity of the N.Z.U. Blues Blazer is achieved.
The Joynt Scroll Contest is to be held annually between the months of April and July in the Centre in which the Tournament is to be held the following year. The Joynt Scroll Contest will therefore be held in Dunedin this year. It is to be noted that the Tournament eligibility rules will govern eligibility for the Joynt Scroll Contest.
The Association has already obtained concessions in hotel rates for students visiting Christchurch, Dunedin and Wellington. It is hoped to extend these concessions this year, and to allow graduates of not more than three years' standing the use of C.I.E. identity cards when traveiling abroad.
Lectures.—In the Second Term, a series of Lectures is to be given on " Evolution" in its various aspects by the following members of the staff:—
Professor H. B. Kirk.
Mr. L. C. King.
Dr. A. B. Wildman.
Mr. G. A. Peddie.
Dr. I. L. G. Sutherland.
This interesting series of addresses should appeal, not only to science students, but to the College as a whole.
Well, the Literary Society is giving all freshers a chance to show the be whiskered blatherer where he steps off by giving a prize of 10s. 6d. for the best fresher essay (humourous or serious) between 500 and 1,000 words on "Effects of the Shavian visit on N.Z. Literature." The best entry will be published in "Smad."