Those who were in the neighborhood of Quincy Square last evening might have heard a chorus of men's voices. On inquiry they would have learned that it was the 'varsity Glee Club serenading Dr. A. P. Peabody in honor of his eightieth birthday, which takes place today. This was not merely an ordinary serenade; it was a token of the love and esteem which the college feels towards its true friend and benefactor.

Dr. Peabody's connection with Harvard began when he was twelve years old. At this age he passed his examinations to college, and doing the work of the freshman and sophomore years within the next year, he entered the junior class at the age of thirteen and graduated at fifteen in 1826. After a few years of acting as tutor to a private family, he entered the Harvard Divinity School, and afterwards became instructor in Hebrew and tutor in Mathematics. The year after he left the Divinity School he was ordained pastor of a Second Parish church in Portsmouth, N. H., where he stayed till 1860.

The all-important part of Dr. Peabody's connection with Harvard came in 1860, when he was made Preacher to the University and Plummer Professor of Christian Morals. It is in this position which he held until ten years ago, that he rendered such invaluable service to the college. In all these years he was the close friend of the students, aiding them in their plans, helping them in their troubles, and setting that great example of personal love and devotion which the college has ever since endeavored to follow. Indeed it is Dr. Peabody's example most of all, perhaps, that is and has been of such value to us and to those before us. His absolutely simple and genuine way of doing things, both in his preaching and in his pastoral work in the college, has been one of the principal qualities that has made Dr. Peabody so beloved by the students, and his work and example so valuable and lasting to the University.

Dr. Peabody's work as a college preacher has been eminently successful. In 1881, while in the bloom of his work he layed down his charge to be taken up by younger hands. And yet Dr. Peabody is not old. Though his hair has turned white, his love and spirit for kind works are as fresh and young as ever. Since he resigned his position as preacher, he has been active in writing and translating, and now and then the college has the pleasure of listening to him in Appleton Chapel.

On this, his eightieth birthday, the whole college unites in warmest greetings to the dear old doctor.