In this brilliant review of the famous society's history, R. H. Phelps '30, former first marshal, continues his article in connection with the coming celebration.

In Phi Beta Kappa, too, "extemporaneous disputes" and carefully prepared papers in opposite composition" were the regular fare at the fortnightly meetings. Even in those days college students had considerable aversion to doing unnecessary work, and there are many reports of meetings containing such statements as "Brother -- being absent the extemporaneous dispute was omitted," and "Brothers -- & -- being absent there were no performances." Yet most of the discussions scheduled were apparently held; and the subjects treated at these meetings have a particular interest, for they include current affairs, speculative questions, potentially humorous topics, debates on academic subjects; and a number of these are matters that are still live themes of argument in colleges.

Colonial Extracts

The following extracts are taken from a list compiled some years ago: 1778--October 23--Whether it would be for the usefulness of ministers to have their salaries increased.

1793--November 26--Whether the civilization of the American Indian be practicable.

1796--May 10--Whether the excise law be advantageous to the public.

August 30--Whether any government have a right to restrain emigration.

1798--April 4--Whether a treaty with Great Britain, offensive and defensive, would be advantageous to the United States.

May 29--Whether French politics be more injurious than New England rum.

1798--December 4--Whether the possession of the West Indies would be of advantage to the United States.

More general topics included:

1787--August 28--Whether mankind be happier in a state of Nature or in Society.

1791--July 5--Whether the fair sex conduce to the improvement of ours.

1792--December 18--Whether literature flourishes more under monarchy than under democracy.

Annual Meeting Held