PALLADIAN.

GENERAL REMARKS.

The school year of 1886-7 opened with the brightest prospects for Palladians. Sixty of the old members were present, and these immediately commenced an enthusiastic work for new members. In this work the Palladians were quite successful, for fifty-one new names were added during the year. Fears were entertained as to the result of so large a membership, but the society did not lose sight of the fact, that an increase in membership is not a true index to complete success. The literary work as well has received a comparatively large share of attention. The younger members are very willing to bear their share of the work—a fact which shows the real literary tone of the society. The most harmonious feeling has prevailed, and a steady advance has been made from the opening to the close of the year, and the mysterious power that we call "Palladianism" has become deeply rooted in every heart.

The accessory organizations are deemed most important to the success of the society as a whole, and of each member individually. Nowhere can the same training be had that is found in a debating society; and with the repeated proof of this there remains no doubt that the P.B.D.C. and P.G.D.C. are the main pillars of the society. In them is found a freedom from restraint which leads to the greatest success in speaking. These auxiliaries have been instrumental also in placing the society on a firm financial basis.

There has seldom been a year when there was not some debt upon the society, which required extra exertions to be met. In the spring of this year a new indebtedness was incurred by the purchase of a piano; yet six hundred dollars was promptly subscribed to cover the first payment on it. The resources of the society, however, lie as much in energy and determination as in ready money. It is this which makes it possible for the society to pay such heavy sums from time to time.

In view of what the society has accomplished during the year its members have reason to be proud. It still holds its rank in quality of work and membership, and is able to vindicate its position. That the Palladians have been successful in making their programmes attractive is shown by the large audiences that have filled the hall the whole year. The prospect for the coming year is even more pleasing than that of one year ago. There is good evidence that the society will take another long stride forward in the line of real culture, and keep pace with the improvement of all branches of University work.