(We invite all men in the University to submit communications on subjects to timely interest, but assume no responsibility for sentiments expressed under this head.)

To the Editors of the CRIMSON:

It is more unfortunate that Harvard should be so suddenly called upon to express officially its opinion on so important a matter as universal military service. Although the question has been in the air for several months, it has been brought home to very few students. Without a discussion in the columns of the CRIMSON, as in the present case, the vote represents little more than the "snap judgment" of the University. Under the circumstances, if the CRIMSON wished to comply with the Army League's request for an official canvass of Harvard sentiment, to be presented before the Senate Committee, there was small choice in the matter; but it is to be regretted that the present vote will be quoted as representing the final, fixed opinion of the University on the subject.

One aspect of the matter which would bear discussion, is the relation of compulsory service to President Wilson's recent speech, and the policies suggested therein. Anyone who is in any way in sympathy with his proposals and sees in a league of nations, or at least a common understanding among nations, a possible solution of the difficulties of the future, (something worth trying, even though its success cannot be mathematically demonstrated),--any such person should consider the adoption of universal military service in its light. President Wilson proposes essentially that the United States be ready to join with the other nations in guaranteeing, among other things, that the world at large be secured against aggression. The question is, can we, in good faith, propose this, and at the same women embark on an entirely new policy of universal service. This obviously looks toward a great increase in our military strength, and the obvious query is, what is it for? We say, and sincerely believe, it is for defense only; but will this be accepted by other nations? Diplomatic authorities tell us that the Kaiser was an earnest worker for peace, and did not willfully precipitate the war. This statement is usually greeted with smiles, and references to the enormous military organization of Germany, and to historical fact. Our military preparations will be undeniable, and unfortunately historical. Fact is none too reassuring in our case. Our expansion southward in Porto Rico. Panama, San Domingo, Danish West Indass, Hayti, Nicaragua,--not to mention the Philippines,--has been steady and sure. We point with pride to Cuba as a proof of our altruistic motives, but it is hard to persuade a foreigner that the incident is closed even yet.

Unless we wish to vitiate the Presidents efforts by making them appear insincere; unless we wish to rob ourselves of the opportunity of leading the way in the reconstruction of Europe and the world; unless we are to militarize ourselves sufficiently to challenge any likely combination of nations against us and to invite the formation of such combinations, we must at least, withheld from universal service until after the reorganization of Europe. HALLOWELL DAVIS '18.