The first meeting of the new Executive took place on Thursday last. All new members, except Mr. Birks, distinguished themselves by arriving late. The new President, after a fatherly talk, got down to business and, with Mr. Scotney to move the closure when necessary, the twenty-two items on the agenda were disposed of in record time.

"Smad's" Hansard reporter prided himself upon his punctual appearance at the first Exec. Meeting last Thursday, but his pride was hot shared by Misses Grainger, McLaren and Harding and Mr Scotney, who arrived at intervals between 8 and 8.30 p.m.

The meeting began at 8.5 p.m., the McGhie reading the minutes with pompous and deliberate articulation which must have sounded somewhat impressive to the one new member present at this stage. To the accompaniment of a regular tattoo from hockey players, the minutes were continued until interrupted at 8.15 p.m. by the entry of Misses Grainger and Harding, flushed and apologetic, A suave and unperturbed Mr. Scotney then interrupted, closely followed by Miss McLaren. The McGhie and the hockey still continued. . . .

The President.

Mr. Bradshaw rose and proceeded with a neat, well-rehearsed speech of welcome to new members. "When I was a new member I was frightened to open my mouth for six months . . . .," quoth the veteran, in urging new members "to stand up, speak up, and shut up." Anxious looks were directed at "Smad" when this strong language was used. Mr. Bradshaw also mentioned the word "punctuality," whereat offenders above-mentioned registered renewed embarrassment.

Business.

Following a number of minor matters, the Constitution of the Historical Society was approved; it could hardly be refused when backed up by a letter from Mr. P. J. S. Smith.

Subsidised Footballers.

An application from the Football Club raised the question of subsidies to travelling players. The Exec. resolved to adopt as its guiding principle that teams travelling for inter-'Varsity matches may be subsidised, but that other applications should be viewed with disfavour. As far as the Christchurch trip was concerned, the Exec. would consider necessitous cases.

Assistant Treasurer.

Mr. Jack Mules was appointed assistant treasurer, and a visit to the Exec. room on Friday showed him learning the ropes under Mr. McIntosh's eye.

The Building Committee.

As directed by the Annual Meeting, the Exec. considered the constitution of the Building Committee, and decided that it could not be improved upon. Another direction was carried out in the appointment of a commission of enquiry into the Cafeteria. This commission is to report to the Executive early in the third term.

Herr Scotney.

The Finance and Gym. Committees were elected without trouble, but the question of a Stationary Controller aroused quite a storm. Miss McLaren accused Mr. Scotney of Fascist tendencies for moving the closure without allowing time for an adequate discussion. Mr. Scotney said he was quite willing to do the work, but that it was a delightful job for a woman. Mr. Bradshaw, to clear the air, called for fresh nominations, and Miss McLaren was elected. She was also elected unopposed as N.Z.U.S.A. member and corresponding member, Mr. Scotney declining nomination.

Honourable members for Football, Basketball and Hockey constituencies clashed over the personnel of the Blues Committee. After much involved discussion the following were elected: Mr. Bradshaw (chairman), Miss P. Quinlan, Messrs. Allen, Diederich, McIntosh, Plank, and Wild. They have yet to consent.

A Lifetime Job.

The appointment of Records Officer brought forth a speech from Mr. Birks. With becoming modesty he said he had not done very much, and added that it was a lifetime job. Mr. Birks then retired, and in his absence was re-elected.

A Home Away from Home.

Miss McLaren thinks the Exec. room should be refurnished or at least have some new linoleum. The president, however, would like to see forms instead of armchairs used for meetings, and thinks an atmosphere of discomfort will lead to strong efforts for a Student Building. A sub-committee to consider the rejuvenation of the Exec. room was appointed. Mr. Scotney at last accepted a portfolio. He also offered his services as a collector of Stud. Ass. subscriptions.

At 11.40 the meeting closed with the news that the next meeting would be on Thursday next at 7 o'clock.

The Honours French Class was amused when it read that a young man of the 12th century refused to join in a drunken brawl on the grounds that he had become a student and must now "play the wise man,"—"Smad" reporters, please note!