What the Hell

(Ed. Note--The Crimson does not necessarily endorse opinions expressed in printed communications. No attention will be paid to anonymous letters and only under special conditions, at the request of the writer will names be withheld.)

To the Editor of the Harvard CRIMSON:

Today we are in the midst of the well known depression which has even made itself felt within these hallowed walls. It is unnecessary that we call your attention to the fact that we call your attention to the fact that this depression has affected Harvard men and especially fathers of Harvard men which is more important. Therefore fathers of Harvard men naturally question the agreement of preaching and practice of Harvard's administrative officials on certain details which vitally affect Harvard's fathers' pocketbooks. Speaking in Metheun on January 14, Henry L. Shattuck, Treasurer of the University contended that public employes should take a wage cut of ten per cent in view of the increased purchasing power of the dollar. He was quoted in part as follows; "What counts is not the number of dollars received but the purchasing power of the dollars. And it is generally admitted that during this depression the purchasing power of the dollar has increased about 15 per cent." He also stressed the reduced private incomes of individuals such as Harvard fathers. We believe that he might benefit some thousands of Harvard fathers who suffer from reduced incomes and in some cases, outright loss of positions, by explaining why in the name of heaven the law of increased purchasing power does not apply in this sanctified locality. We grant the expenditure of approximately three dollars by the University for every one it receives from us and we realize the burden imposed on the officials to make both ends meet. But specifically we desire to know the reason for the increase in room rents in the Houses since last year in view of the statement of the Treasurer.

We like the towers, red and green. The bells, too, are not wholly obnoxious, But will someone who knows please explain to a bewildered electorate, WHAT THE HELL? (Name withheld by request)