THE window which has lately been placed in Memorial Hall is another sample of American work, and shows what a state of perfection the art of making stained-glass windows has attained in Boston alone. The present window was executed by the well-known firm of W. J. McPherson & Co., and is the first purely mosaic stained glass window ever erected in this country. By mosaic stained-glass window we mean one wherein all the effect of light and shade is obtained, not by the use of paint, but by the sole use of various colored glasses so disposed that the effect is similar to most elegant mosaic work.

The Class of 1844 secured the services of the artist, Mr. John La Farge, and he has the honor of making the original cartoon for the window; but the one to whom most credit should be given is Mr. MacDonald, of the above firm, by whom the utter ignorance of the artist in regard to the right division of the figure by lead-work (which in the construction of stained-glass windows is all-important) was overcome, and the present richness of color and fine effect obtained. This central or figure portion of the window represents the Chevalier Bayard standing on the field of battle clad in the armor of his time. The attitude is graceful and majestic, and the effect of the figure is greatly enhanced by its being brought out in bold relief against the folds of the rich blue flag which forms the background. The selection of the tints which compose the armor displays the perfect knowledge of the maker as to what was exactly necessary, and the subtile disposition of them is strikingly beautiful. Moreover, the effect of the window, instead of being diminished by its distance from the ground, is rather increased, and when the window is wholly completed it will undoubtedly be one of the finest specimens of stained glass in the country.

It is intended to have a decorative border of appropriate design surround this figure portion, and the ventilator underneath is to be filled with a representation of the helmet and arms of the Chevalier. On the acceptance of this window by the Class of 1844, work will probably be commenced on the other half of the window, which, when completed, is to contain a corresponding figure of Columbus. After the ice has thus been once broken and a window fairly erected, it is to be hoped that other classes, beholding the beauty thereof, will copy the good example thus set before them, and evince their interest by contributing liberally to the furtherance of the work of adorning our grand banqueting-hall.