The striking feature of the current issue of the Advocate is the very creditable technique and tone of the verse. The stories, on the other hand, are in general vague and much longer than the plots themselves would warrant.

"That Friend of Ethel's," by G. B. Fernald '03, is perhaps the best story in the number. Although the title itself is poorly chosen, the characters are delicately and clearly drawn. The conversation, too, is natural; nevertheless the story would undoubtedly be much more appreciated and effective were there less of it. "Out and In," by Ezra Kidd, suffers, as do the rest of the stories from length and the lack of an obvious plot. The writer has shown a tendency to make many pointed observations on human nature in general--perhaps almost more than can be enjoyed at one time.

The only other stories in the number are "Five Years After" by an anonymous writer, which is a rather pessimistic picture with an ostensible moral; and "Patsey" by R. A. Wood '03, a story of Irish squalor and wretchedness a trifle too realistic in detail.

As for the poetry the "Song of the Smithy" by L. W., is one of the most charming bits of verse that has appeared for some time. It is simple in thought and lyrical in form. A sonnet entitled "To E. A. B." is another poem of considerable merit as is also a refreshing little love poem entitled, "Miranda" by R. Pier '03. "To a Motion for a Verse" by Lyon Ives has less poetry in it than the other poems; it nevertheless points an excellent moral.