Second day charities contributions--expected to be the highest of the five day drive--dropped drastically below predicted figures and prompted concern among Combined Charities officials that the drive would fall far short of its $18,000 goal.

Solicitors collected $3,370, mostly in cash and checks, bringing the two day totals to $5,982, more than $1,500 short of last year at this time.

Charities officials publically blamed the poor showing on hour exams and the coming Princeton weekend. Privately, however, it is known they fell solicitors, have let down on the job and aren't putting on enough pressure.

Solicitors Quit Early

Several solicitors have quit collecting early in order to submit their totals to the drive's treasurer before midnight. This practice has cut into House totals and endangered the campaign's success.

Before the drive's opening Charities chairman Kirby von Kessler expected the new pledge system to reduce collections, but this has not happened, as most contributions have been in check or cash so far.

"There's no valid reason why we're not getting the money. When Eliot hands in only $1 and $2 contributions there's something wrong," Charities treasurer Ed Strasser said last night.

Despite these pessimistic reports, only three Houses contributed less money than on the first day of the drive.