We are pleased to see, by the proof sheets of the forthcoming catalogue, that the Dante Society offers an annual prize, for three years, of one hundred dollars for the best essay on a subject drawn from the life and works of Dante. Competition is open to any student of the university or to any graduate of not more than three years standing. The first prize is offered for the year 1886-87, and the essay must be deposited with the Dean on or before the first day of May of the latter year. The judges of the essays will be a committee of the Dante Society.

Of the four subjects announced for the first year, two require a knowledge of Italian, and two do not, so that a chance for competition is really given to everyone. Such similar prizes as have been occasionally offered in the past, have been of great benefit to all who have tried for them, furnishing as they do, a pleasing incentive for a most valuable literary work. As plenty of time is given, it is to be hoped that a large number will make use of the opportunity.