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The University Courier.
would be the target for insinuations of cowardice from every college in the state, which would rightfully denounce such a measure.
There is unquestionably as good material here as there is in the other colleges of Kansas, but we certainly do need instruction in speaking. With the exception of last year, when the University orator took second place, we have had a very ordinary ranking for the last four years, but in every case the fault has been with the delivery, not with the composition.
The students and faculty alike feel the want of a competent instructor in this line. The only law school in the state gives its graduates no training whatever in speaking, but sends them out with a degree of L. L. B. and if any of them ever learn to speak, as every lawyer should, it is due to his own exertion and not to any help in this line received from his alma mater. We predict that if the institution will afford competent instruction in oratory, the University representative each year will rank among the first three.
The new members on the board of regents, appointed by Governor Lewelling last Saturday, are good selections, and faculty and students are alike pleased. Ex-Governor Robinson, of this city, is as staunch a friend as the University can boast and has done much to make its present proud position possible. It goes without saying that on the board of regents his interest in University growth, coupled with his wide influence throughout the state, will prove of great benefit to our institution. Professor A. S. Olin, superintendent of the Kansas City, Kansas, public schools, was once a tutor at K. U., when there was a Normal department in connection wtth the collegiate work. He is recognized as one of the foremost educators in the West, and his loyalty to K. U. insures his undivided attention to her needs. Mr. J. P. Sams, of Seneca, the third member appointed, is a wealthy farmer and a firm believer in higher education. It is especially fitting that a farmer should be one of the board of regents, since the greater proportion of the students are farmers' sons and daughters. These three new
members, constituting one-half of our governing board, enter upon their duties at a time when great possibilities are open for our institution and it is confidently expected that each of them will be found faithful to his trust.
The three members retiring from this board are well known to students and alumni, since two are graduates of the institution. Mr. W. C. Spangler, of this city, very acceptably filled the important office of acting Chancellor during the vacancy following the resignation of Chancellor Lippencott and preceding the election of Chancellor Snow. Hon. C. S. Gleed, of Topeka, has not only served the University well as a regent, but has reflected credit upon his alma mater by his achievements in the legal and the literary world. Hon. Joel Moody, of Mound City, is well known to all as the author of the Moody Bill that gave the University a permanent appropriation. Each of the three retiring regents has worked untiringly in the interests of K.U., and upon their retirement the Courier voices the sentiment of all in its expression of approval of their efforts and of best wishes for continued success.
To the student who inclines toward athletics, the present season is one of considerable monotony. The constantly changing weather of February and March impose a restraint upon all out-door exercise, but the persevering man will overcome all obstacles. The gymnasium is well filled at all hours. A barn in South Lawrence has been well equipped for indoor work and the rink furnishes a practice ground for base ball aspirants. May the good work continue.
THE Glee Club fill their last engagement Friday night, in Ottawa.
WHAT a great business combination the coal merchant and the ice man could form!
SOME one could write an appropriate fable about the student who waited all day to see the ice go out.