The last number of the Monthly has an interesting editorial on the conference committee. The writer takes a stand directly opposed to that of a gentleman from whom we recently published a communication. The man in question condemned the committee because of its inaction. The Monthly, on the other hand, holds that the body is a conference committee, and not an executive committee. This distinction is one which must be often reiterated; for we are very likely to forget it.

Although the majority of us are very likely to undervalue the worth of discussion, which has no immediate result, yet possibly some believe too strongly in the efficacy of talk as talk. Without doubt every member of the committee has much clearer motives in the subject discussed, than he had before. Those who have ever tried to argue over any question cannot deny that debate or discussion brings out and defines their own ideas most marvellously. Undoubtedly, then, the talk has had a very good influence on the committee-men themselves. But as yet the students at large have been but little affected. Accordingly, while we would not disparage the good results already gotten, yet it seems as if much benefit would come if the committee sessions were public. It would not, however, be necessary to have the discussion open to all.