Under the auspices of the Harvard Union, Colonel Thomas Wentworth Higginson, and Honorable Andrew Dickson White are to speak before the University this week; the former this afternoon on "Orators and Oratory;" the latter Friday night on "Evolution vs. Revolution in Politics." The combination of subjects is appropriate, for in the work of the debating clubs practice in speaking is combined with the study of political, social and economic questions; the selection of the speakers is admirable; Colonel Higginson is one of the best examples of what a public speaker should be and Mr. White is one of the deepest thinkers and most earnest workers among our public men.

The opportunity to hear these two authorities is fully appreciated by Harvard undergraduates. We recognize the distinguished position which Harvard men have always taken in speaking and debate. In the ante-bellum days when rhetorical speaking was in vogue, the polished Everett, the unflinching Summer, the persuasive Phillips were the country's leaders. Then came the change from the vehement "oratorical" style to the simple, direct and business-like speaking-a movement in which Harvard men have taken the lead: Colonel Higginson's "Hints on Speech-making" has been of inestimable service; the late Governor Greenhalge and ex-Governor Russell were among the most active exponents of the new style of speaking; President Eliot has always held it before us by his own example.

It is this simple, direct and business like speaking which characterizes Harvard men in public life today; Senator Lodge, Commissioner Roosevelt, Governor Wolcott, and ex-Governor Long are admirable examples of its efficiency. That this style of speaking has been successful among the undergraduates our great record in debate has effectively shown. The method of studying the great public problems by original research, coupled with this business-like, earnest way of presenting them will bring success in public life in the future.

The provision which Harvard makes for this two-fold training is unexcelled. The research work in the history and economic courses, and the excellent training given in English 10, 30 and 6, as well as the opportunities offered by the Freshman Debating Club, the Forum and the Union are indeed valuable. The plan of supplementing this training with such lectures as those by Colonel Higginson and Mr. White re-enforces in the most excellent way all that is thus taught the undergraduates.