To the Editors of the CRIMSON:

We are all well acquainted with the twin chimneys of the Elevated Power Plant which rise in grandeur, as it were, from the very heart of the Freshman dormitories, and dominate the entire surroundings by their size and height. They serve a utilitarian purpose to be sure but hardly an artistic one. And yet they must needs remain although it is obvious that they detract rather than add to the scenery.

While driving by these stately stacks the other day an idea came to me which, upon expression to the other members of the party and to several other friends since, met with such instant endorsement that I was urged to submit it for consideration. Practical or not it is at least interesting. The plan is simply this: To erect a cross member at a suitable height between the stacks, consisting of substantial framework so covered that it would appear to the eye as of the same solidity as the chimneys themselves. The result would be a gigantic H,--over a hundred feet in height and proportionately broad which would be seen to advantage from nearly every point of the compass.

The sentimental value of such a huge letter is easy to contemplate. It would stand at the entrance to the Freshman halls a constant reminder to the entering classes of the greatness of the University. It would face the athletic field and river where Harvard teams and crews would see it daily as the heroic image of the emblem they strive to win. And it would look across the intervening buildings to the Square, the Yard, and Memorial Hall, and all the spots of Harvard tradition and proclaim to all who behold it the presence of Harvard.

Whether or not this scheme is as practical as it is appealing to the imagination is of course uncertain. The cost of the work, the smoke from the chimneys, the strength of the stacks, the engineering problems, the sanction of the Elevated, etc., are all factors any one of which might make the undertaking impossible. However, we never know what a though is worth until it is criticised. So here is this one--do with it as you will. Yours for the big II.  VAN NESS H. BATES '19.