The elective pamphlet for 1886-87 has made its appearance. Contrary to expectations, a large number of important changes have been made, and we are happy to say that on the whole they seem to be changes for the better. Some of the most popular courses have been suddenly transformed into half courses, or written work of some kind required; notably among these, Political Economy 4 and Natural History 2. History 1, which for so long a time has been under the charge of Professor Macvane, has been given to a new instructor, and the lectures will be delivered three times a week. A tentendency to annihilate "snaps" seems to pervade the pamphlet from the beginning to the end, and this, coupled with the recent action of the faculty in regard to personal supervision of student's work by instructors, seem to be slowly destroying many of the former evils which were so apparent in the Harvard curriculum. Such a remedy, however, is but skin deep. The evils of the system may be weakened by such attempted aims, but nothing stable can ever be accomplished until the marking system is destroyed.

Let us, however, make the best of what is afforded us, and be thankful that the list of courses for next year is more complete than ever before.