For the first time war and the fear of air attack disrupted the routine of Harvard education yesterday morning, as a surprise air raid test covering Boston and vicinity broke up classes and closed Widener.

University officials in charge of civilian defense were unanimous in their satisfaction with the efficiency of the Harvard ARP system. Aldrich Durant, chief air raid warden, called the test "perfectly satisfactory"; and Dr. Donald Scott, chairman of the Committee of Civilian Defense, regarded the results as indicating "real safety" for the University.

Half Hour to Go

At 10:06 o'clock the alert sounded, calling all members of the ARP network to their posts. Exactly 30 minutes later the final signal sent all civilians to shelters. The actual test lasted until 10:50 o'clock, when the all-clear blew.

At 10:36 most classes were adjourned and students in the Yard sought safety in Widener, Memorial Chapel, or the Houses. Widener, because of its crowded condition, went into action at the first alarm. A mass of students gathered in the basement corridors and the great steel and glass doors stop the stairs were closed and guarded.

Lines of cars were curbed in the Square and local merchants watched from their doorways. Mt, Auburn Street rested virtually deserted, patrolled by the student wardens from the Houses. Littauer Center was filled with the uniformed groups from the Yard district.