THE DOUBLE-EDGE

In concluding the summary which he handed to Commissioner Dillon last night, Superintendent Gill wrote, "For more than three months an intensive effort was made by the Auditor to find everything. . . derogatory to Norfolk or the Superintendent. The most serious culmination of that effort is these thirty-six allegations. The wonder is that nothing more could be found to criticize in the planning, erection, and administration of a new prison, over such a long period of time." And, recalling what Gill has done to the sickly thirty-six, the intelligent citizenry will join in a hearty yea. Whatever the outcome, the Superintendent has shown to those who heed that he is an honest man, an able administrator, and a good fighter--all in all not a follow to be trifled with.

But how about the rest of our dramatis personae? Hurley has left for parts hence, a discredited politician, doomed by the phrase "hit and run." Ely, whichever way he jumps, has lost the support of literates who once believed him above such stuff, Dillon has played a very small part indeed, indicating plainly enough that his job is as yet too big for him. The Boston Herald advertising itself "a Republican paper and proud of it" has muffed its big chance to pin the Governor, and has lost a good slice of circulation to boot.

Some will lament that Gill's energies should have been diverted to so tiring and useless a task. The CRIMSON is inclined to the opinion that his time has been well spent.