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The joint debate between the representatives of the Yale and Harvard Unions last night was a highly successful and very enjoyable affair. The members of the Harvard Union deserve the greatest credit for the way it managed the debate. Especial praise is due Mr. J. M. Perkins, the president of the Union; he was a leading spirit in the original plans for a joint debate and much of the work of completing the actual arrangements has fallen upon his shoulders. He has discharged his responsibilities as president of the Union in an admirable manner and it is a pleasure to congratulate him and his fellow-workers upon the success which has crowned their labors.

The debate was certainly a gratifying success. The interest which it aroused was far greater than even the most sanguine expected. It is to be hoped that this awakened interest marks a return of our enthusiasm for the long neglected art of public speaking, and that the joint debates of this year are only the beginning of an annual series. The friends of the two universities have long desired some such contest. It is well that there be a rivalry on this side of the college life as well as in athletics; that there be the same sort of stimulus to intellectual that there is to physical activity.

The Harvard Union has now to choose the men who shall represent it in the debate at New Haven. Last night has emphasized the dignity and importance which these debates are to have, and therefore, the care which the Union should exercise in selecting its representatives for the April debate. It is to be hoped that the best men can be secured. Every effort should be made to have Harvard represented as strongly as possible in this return debate.

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