Class Debating Clubs.

To the Editors of the Crimson:

The scheme that appeared in the CRIMSON several days ago in regard to class debating clubs has many features that recommend it, but no change in the present condition of debating affairs should be made without considerable deliberation and discussion.

At present we have two large clubs and the Freshman club. These three, theoretically, provide for all members of the University interested in debating; if it can be said that they do not provide for everybody, then new organizations should be made.

It is a recognized fact that in the last two or three years interest in the weekly debates has flagged considerably. This may be used as an argument in favor of class debating societies. The real reason, however, of this apparent dying of interest is that debating activity has been transferred. In English 30 and English 6 Juniors and Seniors find opportunity for all the debating that time allows. A general survey of the field shows that the Sophomore class is the only one not expressly provided for, the Freshman Debating Club, English 30 and English 6 furnishing adequate opportunities for the three other classes. Sophomores, however, can do most valuable work in keeping alive the interest in the present upper-class clubs, a work much needed if the clubs are to maintain their past positions.

The scheme proposed would further sub-divide and dissipate activity in debating and would thus destroy the end at which it aimed.

H. D. BUSHNELL.