Kappa Alpha Theta Journal, Vol. 2 no. 2

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CONTENTS Butler’s Falls . Seventh Biennial Convention A Delegate’s Account . History of Nu . . The Cynicism of Carlyle . Editorial . . Exchanges . Resolutions . . Fraternity Notes . Chapter Correspondence . Alumnae Letters . Personals . Advertisements . PAGK. 4:1 44 40 52 54 57 02 05 06 67 75 78 80

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-^IPIRIILj, 1887. Kappa Alpha Theta. PUBLISHED FOR THE FRATERNITY KAPPA CHAPTER. LAWKENCE, KANSAS: JOURNAL BOOK AND JOB PRINTING ROOMS. 1887.

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Kappa Alpha Theta. MART E. WILDER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF. ALTCE E. BARTELL, 1 LUELLA J. MOORE, V MAY L. WEBSTER, \ Associate Editors. TELLA CHAPMAN, BUSINESS MANAGER. PRICE OF SUBSCRIPTION, $1.25 PER ANNUM. SINGLE COPY, 35 CENTS. Exchanges and Communications to be sent to MARY E. WILDER, 1220 Ohio Street. Lawrence, Kansa*.

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Kappa Alpha Theta. VOL. II. APRIL, 1887. BUTLER’S FALLS. No. 2 The ceaseless dripping, dripping of the Falls! Above all human pangs and earthly ills The dripping of the Falls goes ever on. Around, the leafy forest solitude Unbroken, save by tuneful note of bird, Or lively chattering of some social squirrel Discoursing wisely from his safe retreat; Above, the unfathomed dome of cloudless blue From earth to heaven, from heaven to earth expands, Embracing all with God’s unfailing love. When the gray earth was new and tottering Time With baby limbs and childhood’s smile had sprung Fresh from the forming hand of Nature’s God, Then thou wert here with patience infinite, Pouring thy feeble drops with tireless care Upon the huge and slowly wearing stones. What hast thou witnessed since the birth of Time! Nations have risen and fallen to decay; Empires have toiled with bloody sweat of war; New faiths have swept the startled nations o’er; For all mankind the stricken Christ has bled. Great men have labored long and earnestly. Striving with all the mighty strength of Right Against the guarded bulwarks of the Wrong. New worlds have been discovered, men have sought With mole-like blindness, the unsearchable,

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44 Seventh Biennial Convention . Have scaled the heavens, have spanned the countless years Of circling ages with the bridge of thought. Yet ever thou the same; corroding Time, Profanes not thy true greatness; thou shalt be, When we are crumbled to our native dust, And Time is merged into Eternity. Annie Laurie Adams. The above lines were written at llanover, Ind., where the writer spent her Freshman year. It was there that she made the acquaintance of K A 0, and there that many of the pleasantest recollections of her life are centered. To a casual passerby, the little town may seem dull and uninteresting, but to one who has lived there through a college year, and has learned through frequent afternoon strolls to know intimately the exquisite bits of scenery that lie all around, there is a charm about the place that does not easily fade away. Butler’s Falls— the subject of these lines — is one of many situated within a radius of three miles around the village. It is a great semicircle of rock, at the center of whose circumference a thin stream of water trickles lazily over and falls a distance of ninety feet, to the gorge below. j Seventh Swnnial (t mvmtion . The Seventh Biennial Convention of Kappa Alpha Theta was summoned at Madison, Ind., February 23d, 1887. The convention was formally opened Wednesday at 10 a. m., in the parlors of the Madison hotel. An examination of creden¬ tials was made, and an order of exercises decided upon. The committee on credentials reported the following delegates present : Alpha, Greencastle, Ind. — Miss Vickery, Miss Fallass. Beta, Bloomington, Ind. — Miss Morris, Miss Rawles. Delta, Bloomington, Ill. — Miss Myers, Miss Groves. Epsilon, Wooster, Ohio — Miss Johnson. Theta, Indianola, Iowa — Miss McGee. Kappa, Lawrence, Kas. — Miss Webster. Lambda, Burlington, Vt. — Miss Chamblers.

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Seventh Biennial Convention . 45 Mu, Meadville, Pa. — Miss Rietze. Nu, Hanover, Ind. — Miss Arbuckle, Miss Fitzgerald, Miss Hill. Miss Margaret Hill, Mu, occupied the presidential chair, with Miss Lou Morris, Beta, as secretary. Communications and petitions were presented from Iota, at Cornell, through which the chapter was enabled to take an active part in the proceedings. Four business sessions were held. During the first, attention was given to petitions for charters. Two only were granted — one at Albion, Mich., and another at Lincoln, Neb. Others were referred to appropriate committees for further investigation. A congratulatory letter was also sent to the chapter just established at Los Angeles. The second session was called to order at 2 p. m. Work on the constitution was begun. The third session, beginning at 7 p. m. and continuing until after midnight, was also wholly devoted to the constitution. The result of these lengthy discussions was seen in the radical changes effected. A fourth session was called Thursday at 1 p. m., the morning having been spent in a visit to the college buildings at Hanover. A number of hours were consumed in a discussion of the Journal , Catalogue , Song Boole, and finances, before the order of miscellane¬ ous business could be taken up. The limits of human endurance were reached before all the business on hand could be disposed of, but as comparatively little of importance remained unfinished, the convention adjourned to meet at Lawrence, Kas., in October, 1889. A magnificent banquet tendered the fraternity by Mu chapter, closed the proceedings. It was the grand finale of an occasion most pleasant to us, and — we hope — profitable to the fraternity.

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46 A Delegate's Account. Ji %)Mute6 Jlcmuni. The time will come, perhaps, ‘‘when the sun grows cold and the stars grow old,” that the question, “what to wear” will not bring distraction and heart-rending agony to the soul of the girl of the period. ’Tis a consummation devoutly to be wished, but the time is not yet ripe for such a glorious emancipation, nor will it be so long as conventions, receptions and banquets reign supreme in the hearts of college girls. W e are morally certain that the heart of each delegate quickened its beating a little in thinking of dresses to wear at the convention — or, as in one case we know of — lack of dresses. Fraternity girls are not Miss Flora McFlimseys, nor ultra fashionable voung ladies, nor yet advocates of dress refoim, but there is one subject on which all girls agree — to make the best possible appearance on all occasions. W e do not believe that the coat makes the man, but we are convinced that dress has a good deal to do with the making of a girl. So, after the manner of girls, we borrowed and scraped together all the finery of our respective chapters and families, and sent word to the neigh¬ bors to bring in all their spare jewelry, and then we started, in all the ‘glory of our borrowed plumage, for the convention. Now we, individually, did not do this, but some of the delegates looked so nice that we were just mean enough to believe anything, and especially were we ready to credit it, having been told by one who knew. On their way to convention, those delegates who could con¬ veniently do so, stopped off at Oreencastle, in order to accept Alpha’s kind invitation to a reception given on the 21st of February. The reception was held at the home of Col. Weaver, who has been minister to Austria for a number of years, and who is now one of

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A Delegate's Account • 47 the professors at Greencastle. Their magnificent home passes description, being literally filled with beautiful pictures, unique vases, books, and all manner of foreign bric-a-brac. It would be still harder to do justice to the charming manner in which we were received and entertained by the host and hostess. They were particularly kind to the strangers, putting them at their ease at once, and making them forget their natural shyness. We were forced, though not against our wills, to carry away a most glow¬ ing impression of the sociability of the gentlemen, and the gracious¬ ness of the ladies of Greencastle. The evening was spent in talking to death the people whom we met, and meeting others whom we wished to talk to. Oh, how some of us longed for two tongues and four eyes that night, and how many bright things we have thought of since which would have come in so “pat.” However, we enjoyed ourselves to the full extent of one tongue and two eyes, and would be glad to know that we would all meet again on a like happy occasion. To some of us not blessed with large alumnae chapters, it seems almost incredible to think that nearly all the ladies at the re¬ ception could give us the Theta grip. It rouses our enthusiasm just to imagine a company of sixty Theta’s, but what happiness it must be to possess that many in one chapter, and to have their support and help in all questions. Some of us were almost green with envy as we thought of the unequal distribution of numbers, but we fell back on the dear old law of compensation, which never fails to adjust all wrongs and equalize the blessings of fraternity girls. If some of the chapters have not so far-reaching a Theta back-ground as Greencastle, we know of one, at least, that has a more desirable “ ’bus-line.” The meanest things we could say of Greencastle conveyances, could not half depict the truth in its sad reality. Words fail us when we try to describe that “’bus” in which we were placed by a malicious conductor, and which bore us, in all the glory and pride of our first convention, from the station to the dormitory. We had traveled all day, we were footsore and weary; but occasional glimpses of the coming evening of pleasure

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4 8 A Delegate's Account . refreshed us, and we gaily launched ourselves out into a sea of imagined repartee and nice nothings which were to captivate the unsuspecting hearts of the Greencastle youths. We little knew what fate had in store for us, and although the wind howled and the rain beat, we were happy — and ignorant. The truth in all its coruscating, corrugating splendor did not burst upon us until we were fully on our way to the dormitory. We were not greatly alarmed at first, but as the bumpings and thumpings increased, it seemed as if we were telescoping all the rocks of the Glacial Period. We flung dignity to the winds, and wildly clung to the straw at the bottom of the “’bus.” We tried to steady our reeling heads by clutching at the door, which was a board, pure and simple, with a nail for a knob. We thought of the spontaneous-instantaneous- ness of the going-to-pieces of the wonderful one-horse shay, and we held our breath waiting for the end. It was sad to see our poetic thoughts collapse, and our would-be repartee vanish into thin air, and had it not been for the warm welcome we received at the hall, we feel we could never have forgiven that conductor — never. The morning of the 22d saw us in Chapel, listening to the eulo¬ gistic remarks on Washington and liberty, and also to the discordant cadence of cow-bells, chestnut bells and tin whistles. To one un¬ acquainted with the cause of such a demonstration, the scene would have out-rivaled a Pandemonium let loose. The matter “ in-toto,” resulted from this : The good president of the college, in fullness of heart, and all kindness and earnestness, had, on the previous day, called the attention of the students to the lack of enthusiasm mani¬ fested by Young America on our national holidays. The presi¬ dent’s highest hopes could never have equaled the results. Imagine six hundred students effervescing with ecstacy, and with the hope of satisfying the president’s ardent spirit. The grave and dignified Seniors bore a banner with the strange device — “Did it with my little hatchet,” accompanied by a picture of the venerable George in the cherry-tree act. It was really very funny; flags fluttering, bells jingling, and boys yelling “My country, ’tis of thee,” etc.

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A Delegate's Account . 49 When the exercises were over, there was a grand rush in the hall for the Senior’s flags, and we were obliged to flee for our lives. After visiting several of the fraternity halls, we proceeded to Miss Hammond’s, where we held an informal meeting, spending an hour most delightfully, talking and singing fraternity songs. We were so pleased with the spirited way in which the girls of Alpha sung, that some of us straightway resolved to learn every song in our new book if it took a year. It has taken me sometime to get to the point of really starting for the convention, but the afternoon found us en route for Madison. Five girls in various stages of sleepiness, all endeavoring to talk at once. We have always believed that the “best of all ways to lengthen the days, is to steal a few hours from the night,” but we could not in truth and sincerity say that in the presence of such a weary company. However, we forgot it all when we met four delegates at Indianapolis, and the nine of us sped on our way with light hearts and lighter heads, Half a dozen girls or more met us at Madison, and one young man, who loomed up like a good deed in a naughty world, who knew just how to extricate our checks from us, and then disappeared mysteriously from view. A youth to fortune but not now to fame unknown, for in the annals of our memory we have traced his name in glowing characters. W e were all entertained in the principal hotel in Madison; a very pleasant arrangement on account of the ease with which we got together for meetings. The first evening was passed in making acquaint¬ ances. The convention was called to order at io o’clock, the next morning, but as the order of proceedings, together with as much of our work as can be published in the ’Journal is given elsewhere, 1 shall pass by the business meetings. During the recess between the first and second sessions, the entire convention and all of Nu Chapter took a trip on the raging and muddy Ohio. We had heard so much of Kentucky’s beauties and horses, that the temptation to actually see them, was too great to be

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So A Delegate's Account. resisted. We started for the river and boarded a boat which, truth compels me to admit, was a ferry. It had been whispered that the pilot was extremely susceptible to the charms of young ladies, and we, in cold blood, determined to take advantage of this in order to get reduced rates. For reasons which were apparent to us all, but which we would rather not mention here, Kappa’s delegate was chosen to beard the lion in his den (the pilot box), and either get a reduction from fifteen to five cents, or perish in the attempt. She was so quickly successful that we regretted not having asked to go across for nothing. Too much ^can not be said of the beauty of Kentucky — in the distance — with its rolling hills whose tops were in the clouds. But alas! as we approached, the vision of loveliness resolved itself into a mass of mud of fierce and ap¬ palling blackness; the noble horses turned out to be pigs doubly dyed in aforesaid mud, and the beautiful girls were — out of town. We took all the delight we could out of the display of pachy- dermal happiness, and abjectly begged pardon for carrying off so much of that dearly beloved soil. We returned from Milton, Kentucky, in time for an afternoon session, and for the remainder of the day and a good portion of the night, devoted ourselves to business with an assiduity which showed an unlimited capacity for hard work. Of course we were desirous of seeing the college buildings and the campus of which we had heard so much, and when the other Greeks at Hanover most gallantly placed their carriages at our disposal, we unanimously voted to show our appreciation of their kindness by using them Thursday morning. The distance from Madison to Hanover is six miles, along a road which winds in and out until the top of the hill is reached, and we see Hanover Col¬ lege in the midst of a campus so naturally beautiful that we thought of the Acadian Land with its forest primeval. Below the college winds the Ohio, the beautiful river sparkling and dancing in the sunlight, and on all sides are trees and rocks and flowers and rippling little streams — in summer — that is — for we gave our im¬ agination full reign.

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A Delegate's Account. 5i We were most cordially welcomed by the college professors, and conducted by them through the various departments. Their kindness and interest in us will not be forgotten ; we carried away none but pleasant recollections of our brief visit to Hanover. In the evening came the reception and banquet — that deluge of happiness which was to end our sojourn in the enchanted land of Convention. The bright and witty things that were said that night, the charm of smiling faces, the grace of twinkling feet, the menu which satisfied the most exacting connoisseur — all seemed to us the consummation of blissful things. The overwhelming rush of recollections baffles our descriptive powers, but as the editor of the Madison Herald was brave enough to make the attempt, you may have another Greek's version. Epsilon. “As was confidently predicted by their friends, Nu Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity closed their sessions last night in a most brilliant manner with a reception irt honor of the visiting fraternity delegates, given in the Madison Hotel, under the delightful chaperonage of the ladies of the Faculty of Hanover College, and managed, as it was, by the members of Nu Chapter, of whom the word active is no nusnomer. This commingling of fraternal spirits proved one of the most delightful social affairs ever given in Madison. “A word as to the young ladies who so gracefully played the roles of hostesses last evening. Nu Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity, the largest and best known of all our lady fraternities, was founded at Hanover College six years ago. Never very large in numbers, Nu Chapter has, since its origin proven one of the most efficient arms of the fraternity at large. Its appearance at Hanover College was welcomed as a joyous omen of peace by the warlike Creeks there, who had for several years carried on a vigorous and often an enervating border warfare. The relining influence of the admission of a coterie of lady Greeks was soon most apparent. Even the fraternity ‘goat ’ the hero of countless toasts and poems, has gracefully bowed acknowledgment to the influences of side-saddle and skirts, and his antics have lost the dread violence which prevented many from giving utterance to the magic ‘ Sesame ’ which admits the uninitiated to the Greek world of mystery. In spite of a popular superstition to the contrary, our young ladies have proven valiant defenders of fraternal secrets. Last night proved them admirable exponents of true Grecian hospitality. It was a novel and an altogether pfeasing sight to see the ‘white rose and red’ laid aside, and Greek meet Greek under a flag of auspicious omen and happy y

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52 History of Nu. combination, and black and gold of Kappa Alpha Theta — symbols of secrecy and loyalty to Greekdom. “From eight o’clock until the still, small hours, when old ‘8ol’ sends forth warning that revelries must cease, a constant stream of guests poured into the brilliantly lighted parlors of Madison’s justly-famed hotel. Euterpe’s disciples renewed their vows and derived additional inspiration from a de¬ lightfully rendered concert, given in the music room, with the College Glee Club and Miss Palmer and Frank Vail as bright and particular stars. Terp¬ sichore rallied her forces in the large dining-room of the hotel, which had been cleared in anticipation of the wishes of her devotees. Refreshing ices and tempting viands of every description made the tete-a-tete supper-rooms popular resorts. The brilliant costumes of the young ladies made the ball¬ room a scene of beauty. In the presence of so much beauty our pen refuses to particularize, but this we must say, the ladies of Nu Chapter and our bevy of faculty ladies, by their assiduous attentions to all, by the exercise of a grace which was to the ‘ manner born,’ have won immortal fame as enter¬ tainers. This was the verdict of every one so fortunate as to be present at the reception last evening. “ The visiting delegates depart with sincere regret and grateful acknowl¬ edgment of the courtesies extended them by their entertainers. Need we say that the beauty and wit of our visitors, representing almost every State in the Union, have left indellible impressions upon the hearts of the manly Greeks V “Long life to Kappa Alpha Theta, and may many more such delightful entertainments gather toiler standard the friends of whom she has legion.” The following extracts are from a letter written by one of our charter members, giving an account of the founding of Nu Chapter. It was interesting to me, as a Nu girl, and will probably be of in¬ terest to some of the old girls of other chapters as a bit of history calculated to recall somewhat similar experiences of the early days of their respective chapters: “When Hanover College opened her doors to us, she gave us the same privileges that have always been accorded to her students: the right of

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53 History of Nti. organizing and governing societies composed of the most congenial ac¬ quaintances. This society feeling gradually grgw more restricted in its meaning, until it developed a class of secret organizations, to which we joined ourselves, scarcely six months ago. “A year ago, this little cluster of fraternity sisters was little more than a dream — a dream that not even the most hopeful of us ever really expected to see realized. A year ago, only one or two of us had thought of such a thing as a regularly organized Greek circle; the most feasible plan seeming to be that of organizing a literary society, under the supervision of older peopl<;and with the sanction of the faculty. At last we saw the entire removal of this feeling, and to each one of our members came a hard-working fra¬ ternity spirit that has endured through all our many disappointments and hindrances of every kind. “A little less than a year ago, from the little post-office that marks its letters ‘6-27-81/ a letter was sent to Greencastle, asking in fear of a ref usal information concerning the organization of a chapter of K A e. Its style alone shows the awe that pervaded even the atmosphere of the room where, in the Sunday silence, only broken by the soft ripple of the river before the door, a would-be Theta sat petitioning for an entrance into the mystic circle. ********** 1 his first letter was not answered. At intervals during the first term of this year, letters were sent to Bloomington and Greencastle, both by our members and members of other fraternities, who were friends of ours. At last a rumor came to us, that secret societies were to be suppressed. Our distress was great, for we had only received certain news of our acceptance a few days before. Then our rivals made their appearance, and gave us another cruel wound. Driven almost to desperation, a telegram was sent to Bloomington praying for our institution. A group of anxious-faced girls gathered in the hall one evening to read a little folded paper that contained oui late. It said: ‘ What you ask is impossible. Don’t send any more tele¬ grams.’ It was almost a death blow, but we came bravely from this trouble, making up our minds to stand by K A e or not try to organize a frater¬ nity at all. It was a glorious resolution, for it made our reputation among our sister chapters. Way oil* in Burlington, Vermont, they heard of our per¬ sistent applications, and a letter came congratulating us; and in our own State, hardly a letter has been sent to us without some mention of our con¬ fidence in the fraternity. At last, the welcome news came that we were to be initiated; and when we gathered in our dear old hall, that snowy, cold, winter day, there was not one of us but gave a sigh of thanks that we were sisters by charter, at last. Since that day when all the forces of nature seemed spent upon us to break our courage, we have never faltered. There has never been a moment of discouragement or hesitation. *

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54 The Cynicism of Carlyle. “A fraternity may be made the best or the worst influence that can b» brought to bear on a student. It rests upon us all. which it shall be.” I will only add to the above that we have endeavored to make this influence the best, and I think we have no reason to be ashamed of the record of the past five years. We have averaged three initiations a year. The social spirit has been kept up by numerous banquets, the broader fraternity spirit by reunions of all the members. With one exception we have held the places of honor on all the exhibitions of the literary society, and have never failed to send a representative to the conventions. Nu. Susan W. Moffett, Hanover College. <$ke fyjmctim oj Buiiyh. In the southeast of Scotland, among the granite hills and black morasses which stretch westward almost to the Irish sea, lies Craigenputtock, the former home of Thomas Carlyle. Here, in this “loneliest nook of all Britain,” as he calls it, were passed the early years of his married life, and it was here he opened a new world to thoughtful men. We must all acknowledge that our lives are colored by our surroundings, and may it not be that the cold, dreary skies, the barren heath, the general bleakness of the moorland landscape left their impress on Carlyle’s character? He had many strong points, clear insight, rugged independence, stern integrity, and an intense hatred of all lies and shams; yet there was a harsh background of dogmatic egotism and a sublime contempt for everybody who fell short of his standard. His works are tinged with this creed: “I believe in Thomas Carlyle, I find empti¬ ness and chagrin everywhere, I can reverence no existing man.” If we look carefully at his writings, we shall perceive he does not truly want to reverence a man, for while, Diogenes-like, he pro-

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The Cynicism oj Carlyle. yy fesses to seek one, he has inwardly resolved that no man is to be found. In this cynical mood, and with dark-colored glasses, he looks at the world, and it is not strange that the pictures he pre¬ sents are frightfully distorted. To him, Wordsworth is “a small, diluted man — a contemptibility;” Keble, with whose hymn, “Sun of my Soul,” the Christian world is familiar, he gravel}' pronounces “a little ape,” and Gladstone interests him chiefly on account of his “cock nose.” It is with mingled indignation and pity that we hear him speak of Charles Lamb as a “ wild idiot, a combination of feeble wit and a proclivity for gin.” W e are indignant that Carlyle, disagreeable, cross and surly, should with his calm smile of superiority refer so contemptuously to a man who maintained, in the most adverse cir¬ cumstances, a cheerfulness in striking contrast to the temper of the Sage of Chelsea. We can but wonder at the self-assurance of the man who sets himself up in this way to pass sentence of failure so relentlessly upon the majority of his fellow men. The habit of cynicism with Carlyle was so strengthened by time, that finally he could not speak without a murderous stab at something. He had his own vocabulary. The world was trans¬ lated into “ a dusty fuliginous mass.” London, “ a foggy Babylon the quality of his food “Stygean.” But why cite further illustra¬ tions. Enough has been given to show the general attitude of a nature richly endowed, but sadly warped and narrowed by a fault¬ finding spirit, which finally ended in wholesale denunciation. It is this, perhaps, more than any one thing, which has lessened our respect for Carlyle. In cruelly ridiculing those whose impulses were, in the main, good, he has done an incalculable amount of in¬ jury. He has blown his trumpet with no uncertain sound against sham, pretense, and hypocrisy, but it has ended there. While be¬ wailing the decadence of our times, he has done nothing to stem its current. His writings display a bold, manly spirit — yet with strange inconsistency, he identified himself with the conservatives, and did not cease to pour forth volley after volley of ridicule against popular liberty.

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The Cynicism of Carlyle. In forming a just estimate of Carlyle, we must not fall into his error of indiscriminate condemnation, but must remember the moral atmosphere in which he was developed. Born under cold, bleak skies, at a time when theological opinions were severe in the ex¬ treme, the harsh, rough points in his character were developed, rather than checked. He was chased, as he says, “by the most beggarly specter of beggary, and it was only in middle life that the despicable bug-bear was driven out of sight. Always in pool health, he led a most dyspeptic, solitary, self-shrouded life. Tak¬ ing that into consideration, it is not strange that he felt “existence to be bleak as death,” or that he felt he had better “ be dead than thus indifferent, contemptuous, disgusted with the world and its roaring nonsense.” As we look at this picture with its poverty, sickness, and heavy trials, we see his real genius shine out the more brightly. We pity the gloomy, silent, old man, bankrupt in faith and heart, without hope and without fear, passing away, his ruling passion of scorn strong even in death. A sad conti ast to the calm and serene ending of some whom he had classed as “contempti- bilities.” Yet let us not think of him sadly, but kindly, as he lies among the Annandale peasants from whom he sprung, and wait for the time “ When the spirit’s true endowment, Shall stand out plainly from its false ones, and apprise it if pursuing Or the right way, or the wrong way to its triumph or undoing.” Iota.

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Editorial. 57 SdttomalQ The “Kite has taken a long flight. Bright with mystic in¬ scriptions, and bearing with her the vows of eternal friendship, she has winged her way far to the westward, almost into the “portals of the sunset.” Across the intervening space of half a continent, we stretch out the hand of fellowship and welcome right heartily our new sister at Los Angeles. No less cordially do we extend greeting to the chapter recently established at Albion, Mich. Having at one time found the doors of “ Theta closed against them, its members showed themselves possessed of true Theta spirit by refusing overtures from all others. With an independence we could not help but admire, they organ¬ ized under the name of Sigma Theta, and have since shown them¬ selves capable of doing splendid work. Thus the perilous period of childhood in chapter life is safely passed, and they begin their existence as Thetas with all the advantage that experience gives. We trust that the “Kite” will prove an “open sesame” to deeper pleasures and a broader experience, and will be a truer emblem of their future life than the jew'eled crown could ever have been. After our recent enthusiastic convention, we are in a con¬ dition to understand and concur in a regret expressed by some of our cotemporaries upon similar occasions, viz., that the fraternity magazine must to some extent fall into alien hands. Under such circumstances only an extremely unsatisfactory account of the work done at convention can appear in our columns. We are obliged to pass by some radical changes in fraternity policy and content

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Editorial. 58 ourselves with noticing a few facts of less general interest. Other channels will convey the information, but a discussion upon some measures taken, a free expression of the opinions of our various chapters, would be of advantage in more than one respect. Few conventions have done more or better work in the brief time al¬ lowed them, than the one just adjourned. A previous careful deliberation on the part of the chapters as to the points to be taken up, showed its results in the comparative ease and dispatch with which the most complicated questions were disposed of. The dele¬ gates are to be congratulated upon their efficiency. We are constantly reminded that this is an age of progress. In all ranks and departments of life there is an ever increasing need of activity. Fraternities form no exception. The general rule works, if possible, more rigidly here. A wide spread lethargy is the precursor of swift and inevitable annihilation. It is then in accordance with the signs of the times, that we see our ultra-con¬ servatism relaxing somewhat its hold upon our fraternity policy. There is no danger of our rushing to a worse extreme — of becom¬ ing too radical. The idea of exclusiveness has been too deeply imbedded in our fraternity history. All the traditions of the past are against such a result. We have balance wheels enough; there is no need to fear any additional motive power, The question of extension has confronted us at all our conven¬ tions, and although the fiat has long since gone forth that a large number of chapters is not especially desirable, yet taking into con¬ sideration the great number of colleges which Theta could enter with honor to herself, we certainly are in no position to stop grow¬ ing. There is an inspiration arising from numbers which we can not afford to overlook. In regulating the fraternity machinery we should be careful not to impede its action so as to make it practi¬ cally useless.

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Editorial . 59 The question of the presidency of the Grand Chapter has been settled for all time. Alpha, in the vigour and wisdom of her prime, has rescued it from the control of frivolous youth and tottering infancy, and henceforth, midst the gales of innovation and the rocks of tradition will safely steer the bark she herself launched. Little can be said against the decision. For many reasons it is best to have the headquarters of the G. C. permanently established with one chapter. The difficulty of transferring the parapharnalia of the G. C. from place to place, and the awkwardness of having sub rosa printing done by so many different establishments, is of itself an irrefutable argument in its favor. As to Alpha being the favored chapter, the honor belongs to her as the founder of the fraternity. Moreover, during her entire history, she has main¬ tained a steady growth and an ascendancy that bodes well for the future. Our most important office could not be left in better hands. The recent action of the convention making eligible to mem¬ bership the alumnae of colleges in which chapters of Kappa Alpha 1 beta exist, seems to call forth great differences of opinion. Its effect upon chapters now fully established, will be virtually noth¬ ing; upon those yet to come it may be felt. It was designed to enable new chapters to associate with themselves graduate mem¬ bers whose assistance and influence would confer greater strength. I here seems to be no sufficient reasons why a girl in everv respect fitted to become a Theta, whose inclinations and pursuits are nearly identical with those of friends still in college halls, whose associa¬ tions throw her constantly into companionship with Thetas, should be denied the privilege of membership because the chapter was organized a year or two after her college course was completed. Such a one may make a most loyal and enthusiastic Theta. Her superiority in years and experience will make her influence more deeply felt, and fewer restrictions upon her time will allow her to

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6o Editorial. take a most active part in fraternity matters. Thus that aching void which all young chapters, destitute of alumnae, so bitterly be¬ wail, will be in some measure filled. So much for the judicious use of this power; but there is an¬ other view. The badge might mean as much to the post graduate as to the alumna, but in most cases, will it? Is it not true that, with the vast majority, after graduation the fraternity takes a sub¬ ordinate place? The wear and tear of real life brings other in¬ terests, sterner duties. The true field of fraternity work is within the college walls. Hence we should say that this measure in question is beneficial only so far as it covers exceptional cases, and that an indiscriminate use of such a privilege would be highly injurious to the true fra¬ ternity idea. If our fraternity means anything, if our badge is the outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, we can not bestow it where it becomes, practically, a meaningless symbol. The position that we have always taken as regards honorary mem¬ bers, offers indisputable evidence that this idea has been fully ac¬ cepted by the fraternity. We need no figure-heads. Then, festina lente. The path is yet untried. Alpha has undertaken the publication of the new catalogue. It i§ now in process of preparation, and will be issued next Sep¬ tember. It is a laborious piece of work, at best, and every chapter should see that her share of the work is promptly and efficiently done. The proposed new Song Book was given to Beta. She has our sympathies. The plans are so far entirely in embyro, and we can say nothing more than that the book is to be handsomely got¬ ten up, and that the greater part of the music is to be printed. Now let our poets and musicians emerge from obscurity, and shed the lustre of an undying fame upon their fraternity.

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Editorial. 61 While we find so much to commend, we think the convention made a mistake in disregarding our advice that the Journal should be published by an eastern chapter. In thus instructing our dele¬ gate, we spoke two words for the magazine and one for ourselves. We appreciate the honor the fraternity has again conferred upon us, and we acknowledge the courtesy that has been uniformly shown us, but we were sincere in our decision. For two years we have labored and struggled, and we cry “Satis.” Four years and a half is a long period for so young a chapter as we to monopolize our official organ. Again, we stated most decidedly that, in our opinion, the Journal should be published from a more central point, and we have seen no satisfactory reason to the contrary. W e are not only situated at a great distance from our own chapters, but we are away from the real field of fraternity enterprise. Of the fraternities represented at Kansas University, not one has a chapter in any other college in the State. If, as is so often stated, fraternities have taken such a decided move westward, they have not yet come in such numbers as to darken the sun. The real strife takes place afar off — only the rumors of war reach us. But since the decree has gone forth, Kappa finds her only con¬ solation in the fact that the Journal will henceforth be expected but three times in a college year. The convention agreed to de¬ mand but three numbers — a fall, a midwinter, and a commence¬ ment one. But few of the so-called quarterlies really average four issues per volume. Chapter life is of itself so full and brim¬ ming over, that it is not to be wondered at if outside affairs some¬ times receive too little attention. Attention, Chapters! — Let all contributions for our com¬ mencement number be on hand by May 15th. Remember the new law. It will no doubt be effective. We shall be greatly mistaken if there is found any Theta so hard hearted that £ fine fails to touch her.

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62 Exchanges . The November issue of the Chi Phi Quarterly rounds up volume IV. The editor who has guided it through the last two years of its literary voyage, surrenders the helm with evidence of no reluctance, and gracefully bows himself out, waving a farewell “good-bye! God-speed!” Though the local office was undergoing all the horrors of removal, and the number in external appearance evinces perhaps a little haste, internally it maintains the high standard of previous numbers. The Greek press is reviewed with length and interest, and the chapter reports are notably well written, and excellently supplemented with personals. The literary department shows breadth and ability. An article on Exclusiveness, defines advantageously the term as applicable to fraternities — pointing out its pernicious as well as its salutary Influences — recommending in conclusion the golden mean. An open letter contains much worthy council to X , and is of such general application that we clip the following: “That fraternity is strongest in the long run which knows just what it is capable of anil does it with all its might. “ And if Chi Phi will set herself to discovering and understanding her capabilities she will have gone far towards the consummation I wish for her — which is neverenter¬ ing a contest for supremacy when she is over matched, weighing well her fighting powers, and never placing a chapter without are sonable assuiance tliat it will, at least within appreciable time, hold its own, and strike iis roots deep at lust. That is a very moderate policy, and it is not the ideal that we should aim at, and some day will, I trust. “Two things are needed to accomplish this: first and most important, an intelli gent understanding of our ne. ds, of our errors, of our wisest course of action by the active members of Chi Phi. This means education. And secondly, to strengthen this (which would be unnecessary if we had u well-defined policy such as Pve outlined) provisions in our organic law of such a nature that it would be a very difiicult ?natter to secure a chapter from Chi Phi, and making the granting of such chapter impossible without full and exact knowledge of the past and present and as much of the future as# experience and good judgment will unfold, of the institution to which it is proposed to trust this precious offspring of our Good Mother. There is no excuse for a mistake In such a case error is crime— from a fraternal point of view. “It is no disgrace to have dead chapters There are some fraternities which are boasting of the smallness of the number os these defunct branches, which would be stronger had they more of them. But it is a disgrace, it is worse, it is degeneration, it is ruin to continue to establish chapters only to see them gasp and die where they never bad a chance to live. It is not enough that a college bus a great name and a long roll of students; both these it may have and still the conditions of life be unfavorable for Chi Phi. Why try the impossible? M In October, the Sigma Chi gives u full account of the convention mat¬ ters, all undoubtedly very dear to the 2 X heart. “ In many respects,” says tie editor, “the convention that sat at Columbus during the seventh, eighth

Page 25

Exchanges. 6j and ninth of September, was an unusual one. Among its many legislative resolutions we note with considerable interest a law to the effect that here¬ after each and every chapter is required to submit, at a certain fixed time, a report for each issue of the magazine. That the non-appearance of such a report from any chapter signifies either a failure on its part to fulfill its duty, for which offense it shall be fined; or, that the communication was considered unworthy of publication.” An excellently conceived oration, delivered before the convention by Hon. O. S. Brumback, is followed by a long poem, in which we are told that — “A Sigma Chi needs not be literary Nor have the ‘blushing honors’ on him thrust. Nor live a life entirely exemplary (Though that were well,) yet one thing be he must, A whole-souled brother, friendly, friendly very, A man in whom your inmost soul can trust, Whose love and comradeship are priceless, royal, A ture-born Greek in all that’s grand and loyal.” The December number is very complete in all its departments. Twenty- eight chapters have responded with excellent letters, and the exchanges are unusually full of vitality and interest. The “ Heal Meaning of Non-Secrecy,” appearing in the August number of the Delta Upsilon Quarterly , discusses very clearly the position of the order on the question that principally distinguishes it among Greek letter fraternities. The writer thereof emphatically urges that Delta Upsilon ” should let it be distinctly understood that secret mottoes, grips, pass-words, and rites are unknown in our fraternity.” “Fraternity, morality, scholar¬ ship, non-secrecy,” are the qualities characterizing Delta Upsilon. Of the sixtv-seven pages of the Quarterly, forty-six are given to chapter news — probably the most remarkable feature of the number. Chapter letters cover a space of ten pages. The Delta Gamma Anchora has about completed the third year of its literary career. Like many of its contemporaries, it has met with reverses from time to time, yet still carries its banner erect. The November num¬ ber is very creditable, and shows marked improvement in the journal. Delta Gamma letters are the most readable we have seen in the Anchora. There is a relishable frankness about them. We notice the following from Phi Chapter at Colorado University: x “ There Is at the University a very nourishing chapter of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, also one of the I. r. Soiosis, which organization is distinctly Western, we believe. The I. C. girls lmve not treated us with that consideration and kindness which should characterize the relations between rival societies However, we forgive them as they are only * Preps.’ ” Considerable space is devoted to Minor English Classics, sketching Mother Goose and her melodies. Although perhaps not strictly a subject for a fraternity journal, it is rather interesting matter.

Page 26

64 Exchanges . None of our exchanges excell The Shield of Phi Kappa Psi, in point of promptness — always on time — a quality which at once gives any magazine a certain degree of precedence. Nor are we disappointed when we look into pages so replete with well-chosen matter as are the October, November, December and January issues of this magazine. In every instance the articles are pointed, the reprints well selected, the editorials vigorous and thoughtful, the exchanges and chapter letters excellent. A sketch of Greeks and college life appearing in October, says that fraternities have originated “like other institutions of college life, because the student community had felt a social need that could be met in no other way.” Some very practical hints as to the proper sphere of fraternity life are given. In November the cover of The Shield underwent a slight metamorphosis. The color, which was neither a pale green nor yet a blue, is transformed by the magic of Phi Psi chemistry, into the faintest olive — the prettiest cover The Shield has yet had. We observe in the January number the appointment of Mr. S. T. Gilmore as assistant editor. Judging from Mr. Gilmore’s Greek and Latin in K. S. U., we think him fully equal to the emergency. The Kappa Sigma Quarterly , in general appearance, is a very neat, un¬ pretentious little magazine of forty-three pages. During the one short year of its existence, it has struggled with many of the ailments incident to the young life of all fraternity journals. With the October number it launches out again with an excellent spirit of intention. The editorials, though con¬ siderable in quantity, are principally devoted to internal affairs. A strong point is made of chapter letters and personals. Several reprints occur in the literary department, together with a biographical sketcli of Stephen A. Jackson, very prominent in Kappa Sigma. Kansas University has been honored with another fraternity organ — the Delta of Sigma Nil — which has made its appearance since our last issue. The Delta is ably edited and is a credit to Z N. The editors have the right idea of a fraternity journal when they say it is “not intended for a literary organ.” They desire matter pertaining to fraternities, and above all “ news.” Another excellent suggestion is the advice to chapter correspondents: “In all things tell the truth about yourselves and about your rivals.” It is natural, we suppose, for a Greek to believe that his or her chapter is the best in college, and allowance can be made for a certain amount of coloring in chapter letters. Hut gross exaggeration of self superiority and uncharitable misrepresentations of rivals, should be avoided in these letters. However, this evil is not so pronounced now as in the days when fraternity organs were not so widely circulated among members of the fraternities. We will not presume upon the good nature of the Scroll by devoting as much space to it in this issue as it complained we did in our last. As for u s

Page 27

Resolutions . we are quite ready to have our swords beaten into curling irons and our spears into crimping pins. We distinctly stated that we did not wish to be under¬ stood as holding the whole fraternity responsible for the action taken by an 44 under-graduate chapter.” The December number of the Scroll contains a most excellent editorial on the “Development of the National Fraternity.” 14 Reminiscences of John McMillan Wilson,” is an appropriate tribute to the useful life and true manhood of a deceased brother. We find in the January issue an editorial on “Pan Hellenism,” which is thoroughly good and sug¬ gestive of many ideas which the Greek world would do well to consider. The Exchanges, which are only an occasional feature of the Scroll , are very interesting, and show that magazine’s marked ability to take care of itself. Whereas, Our Heavenly Father has, in Ilis infinite wisdom, deprived our dear sisters, Josie and Harry Cook, of the loving and tender guidance of their mother, by removing her to the beautiful home above; and Whereas, We desire to extend to them our deepest sympathy in this the hour of their sad affliction; therefore be it Resolved , by Kappa Chapter , Kappa A Ipha Theta , That in the death of Mrs. Cook we have lost one of our most honorable friends, a woman of pure, noble character, and true Christian life. Resolved , That as a token of respect to her memory, a copy of these resolu¬ tions be sent to the bereaved sisters, and published in the city and University Papers, and also in the journal of Kappa Alpha Theta. Tella Chapman, Emma Baktell, Mrs. G. A. Lewis, Committee.

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66 Fraternity JVotes. J'oMQ Twenty-three fraternity journals are now being issued.—^. The Chi Phi Quarterly will hereafter be edited in New York city, by 13ourdinot Keith. The biennial convention of Delta Gamma will be held in the spring, at Cleveland. Ohio. / Bowdoin College had 121 students last year, all of whom, save five, were fraternity men.— Kappa Sigma Quarterly. The fortieth convention of A K E convened at Washington, January 5th and Oth. About one hunhred and fifty were in attendance. A 0 has re-established Illinois Alpha at Northwestern University, also has entered Syracuse University, Syracuse, N. Y., and Washington and Lee University, Lexington, Va. Ben has a quasi organization at the University of Denver, which will in time be regularly chartereds— Ex. It is also rumored that Ben will enter the University of Cincinnati. Psi Upsilon held her forty-fifth convention with Delta Chapter, Uni¬ versity of N. Y., on February 24th and 25th. The convention was a very successful one, all chapters being represented, and the total attendance being over five hundred. The Greek-letter fraternity is undergoing a most marked development, and competent men who are well posted upon the rapidly changing situa¬ tion are rare — so rare that The Sigma Chi has need of every one whom it can attract to its service. It can offer in return a work that will constantly increase in its interest, and that affords excellent opportunity for originality and independanoe both of thought and execution. To add some zest to the work of the magazine, to improve its contents and to increase the number of those who may hereafter take a personal interest in its success, the of¬ ficers having it in charge have decided to offer a special invitation to the members of the fraternity, both active and alumni , to contribute articles upon any subject relating to fraternity or college affairs, and they will pre¬ sent to the author of the best and most appropriate article contributed dur¬ ing the year, a special Sigma Chi badge. This proposition is made not especially to excite competition for a reward, but to emphasize and call at¬ tention to the earnest desire to .rally about our magazine a strong corps of competent contributors.— The Sigma Chi , December.

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Chapter Correspondence. 67 @hafokt ondemek? DELTA. Illinois Wesleyan University , Bloomington , Illinois. Delta calls her roll after the holidays without an absent member. During the past term, three bright links were added to our chain: Gertrude Jenkins, Lou Gray, and Nellie Caldwell. Last term we were surprised by a strange face in the college hall inquiring for Kappa Alpha Theta, but surprise gave place to pleasure when we saw the Kite with the Kappa Chapter head, and gladly we welcomed Miss Eidemiller, from Lawrence, Kansas. In the afternoon we met at the home of Mattie Myers, and enjoyed a visit wdth our Kansas sister. She told us much of their chapter there, and of the convention at Wooster. Enthusiasm for Theta can last even when school days have passed, as she fully con¬ vinced us by her actions. On Hallowe’en we entertained a few friends at the home of Altha Watson, with a taffy pull. We had a very pleasant time, as all Thetas must know. Yours 'in Kappa Alpha Theta. M. L. EPSILON. Wooster University , Wooster, Ohio. Another term of school has gone by; examinations are over and our two weeks’ vacation has begun, and now comes the thought, almost forgotten amid the many cares of examination week, that °ur letter to the 'Journal has not yet been sent. We feel that we have now a ohapter of which we can justly feel proud. We have enrolled three new Theta’s this term: Gussie Underwood, Annie Lehman, and Bertha Brown, all Fresh¬ men. One of them was much sought after last year by our rival fraternity, Kappa Kappa Gamma.

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68 Chapter Correspondence. Our number is now thirteen, which, in spite of its evil reputa¬ tion, has not yet brought us any bad luck; for we feel that we have been quite successful this term. Though we have not initiated all we have asked, yet the answers have been indecisive, and we think it quite probable, judging from past history, that we will have several more new members to report next term. So many girls who enter college know so little about the character of fraternities, and seem to have the idea that the fra¬ ternity will encroach upon time which should be devoted to study. Our aim is to try to show such that it is possible to be good stu¬ dents as well as good Thetas. We quite approve of the plan which the ladies’ fraternities at Cornell have agreed upon regarding new girls, and wish very much that we were so situated as to make it practicable to adopt it here. We hold our meetings every Friday night, and during the latter part of the term, as Christmas has been approaching, we have adopted the plan of taking our fancy work with us, and while listening to one of our number read selections from Emerson or Hawthorne, we have busily plied our needles, and thus we have not only spent most cosy and delightful evenings, but we have been able to make many a little Christmas token for the loved ones at home. The faculty have taken an action which causes quite a sensa¬ tion in fraternity circles here. This is their regulation, announced at the close of the term : “ Hereafter, no social gatherings of lady and gentlemen students in public halls will be permitted.” The different gentlemens’ fraternities have heretofore been in the habit of occasionally holding banquets in their halls, to which they have invited their lady friends. Several most enjoyable gatherings of this sort have been held this term, but alas ! the irrevocable decree has gone forth that this must happen “never again.” The an¬ nouncement has also been made that “ the faculty disapprove of dancing.” Another regulation which causes our five Sophomores much

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Chapter Correspondence. 69 sorrow, is that “mathematics shall be required through instead of to the second term of the Sophomore year.” A reception was given a few weeks ago by the ladies of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity at the home of one of the mem¬ bers, to which several of our girls were invited, also representa¬ tives from each of the gentlemens’ fraternities. We have not yet indulged in anything of the sort, but are saving up for a grand finale later in the year. Wishing our sister chapters a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Yours in Theta, Epsilon. THETA. Simpson College , Indianola , Iowa. To Kappa Alpha Theta, Theta Chapter sends greeting. The dawning of the new year seems to have brought good fortune to our chapter. Most of our members of last year are in their places, anticipating a bright and prosperous year. There are new battles to be fought for Theta, but there seems to be a promising field for work. We have three rival societies, so our battles are hard fought, but Theta usually comes out with flying colors. Since last we met through the columns of the Kappa Alpha Theta, one of our girls has been married. Although she does not reside here, her love for Theta is not displaced by the new ties. One of our girls is a teacher of Music in this college, and an¬ other the teacher of Art. By next September we hope to have our new college building completed. Theta hopes to keep pace with “ Simpson ” in her advancement, and to keep the “ black and gold ” floating proudly in the air. Yours in Kappa Alpha Theta, Louise Cheshire. IOTA. Cornell University , Ithaca , N. Y. Last spring, as we said “good bye” to so many of our sisters — not only Seniors but under-graduates who were not to return to

Page 32

7o Chapter Correspondence . the University — it was with some feeling of trepidation that we looked forward to the fall, when so few would be left to support the fraternity. Those gloomy forebodings have not, however, been in the least realized. We had one strong reinforcement in the person of a former member, who has returned to complete the course of study interrupted by sickness. We initiated one member — a Sopho¬ more — making our number eight, besides our resident members, whom we affectionately term our “faculty.” Our work has been carried on by committees, as has already been explained to you in a former letter. In order that we might progress faster in our literary work, it was decided that the com¬ mittee on literature should give a twenty minutes’ reading each week. During the past term these readings have been selections from Charles Lamb. One of the pleasantest meetings of the fall term was that de¬ voted to the art committee. The process of etching was explained and illustrated by all the instruments and materials used by etchers. Never before has Sage College been so full of students, not only of Freshmen, but also of special students and post-graduates from other colleges. There are unusually bright and attractive girls. As much, however, as we have been interested in some of the “new girls,” our own selfish content with each other has been so great that it was with an effort that we roused ourselves to a consideration of the future. We have been very fortunate in securing those whom we wished, having pledged two members and initiated one. Perhaps our sister chapters will be interested to know how the new rule in regard to rushing, has operated. One effect it certainly has. It renders the new girls independent of fraternities by throw¬ ing them for so long on their own resources for society; then, too, it does not prohibit rushing after the first of December. We are not yet ready to concede that the disadvantages of the new rule outweigh the advantages. Iota.

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Chapter Correspondence. 7i LAMBDA. University of Vermont , Burlington , Vt. The call for chapter letters for the Journal has come again, and Lambda gladly responds. This has been a very successful year for us, and we could wish for our sister Thetas nothing better than happiness and prosperity equal to our own. As Kappa Alpha Theta is the only ladies’ fraternity in our University, we have no need of the “rushing” practiced in so many of our colleges, and we should not approve of it under any conditions. The course of Iota charter this year seems to us a wise one, and we hope more of our chapters will adopt it or a similar course for the future. We took five new girls from the Freshman class, and were very fortunate in our choice. We made our selections after a great deal of careful thought, and took only those whom we thought most worthy. You would be surprised at the amount of fraternity spirit which our new girls have even now. All are enthusiastic Thetas, and the “black and gold” was never worn by more loyal ones. Our chapter is now so large that we can afford to be exclusive, and we wish it might be so with all the chapters. We think it better to select a few carefully than to take several merely to in¬ crease the number. We decided upon our plan of work for the winter at our last meeting, and expect to find it both pleasant and profitable. The pleasure will be increased by an occasional “ spread,” and perhaps the kettle , of which you have heard, or rather its contents, will add to the feast. We think this wil lnot in the least decrease th e projit, Tor the intellectual feast after it will be all the more enjoyable from the contrast. Wishes for success to the Journal and all chapters, from Lambda.

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72 Chapter Correspondence . MU. Alleghany College , Meadville , Pa. This term began with a bright sky for Mu, and her star is still in the ascendant. Our initiations have been two, one for Miss Helen Sherman, ’90, of Titusville, Pa., and the other for Miss Henrietta Miller, ’90, of Brownsville, Pa. We have been making improvements in our hall, and hope to do more. Our alumnae have kindly aided us. Three of our alumnse have been recently married : Miss Lydia Wood, ’85, to Mr. Homer Bodley,of Pittsburg; Miss Clara Snyder, ’85, to Mr. O. W. Hollister, of Youngstown, Ohio; and Miss Vir¬ ginia Miller, ’86, to Mr. Charles P. Lynch, of Warren, Ohio. We have had several “ spreads,” but have done nothing else in the social line. Alpha chapter of Delta Tau Delta has invited our chapter to a large reception Monday, February 14th, which will doubtless prove to be a social success, as Delta parties have been heretofore. Among the different fraternities here there is a healthy com¬ petition. We still remain the only representative of ladies’ fra¬ ternities in Alleghany. We look forward to the convention anticipating many good movements for the advancement of Theta’s welfare. Yours in Kappa Alpha Theta, Mu. NU. Hanover College , Hanover , Ind. The widwinter term opens with prospects for work and pleasure to Nu chapter. The term is very short, and there is much of col¬ legiate and of fraternity work to be crowded into it. We are looking forward with great pleasure to the meeting of the fraternity Conventions . The Province Conventions of Sigma Chi will meet here at about the same time as ours. Last term was quite gay in fraternity circles. The Phi Gamma Delta’s gave two receptions, to both of which all the members of

Page 35

Chapter Correspondence . 73 Nu chapter were invited. Other fraternities gave informal recep¬ tions and “ spreads ” throughout the term. Kappa Alpha Theta had a very daint}^ feast about three weeks before the close of the term, on the occasion of the pledging of our “Preps.” All the fraternities in Hanover are in a flourishing condition, numerically, with the single exception of Delta Gamma, which has but two members. There is a strong “barb” element among the girls, although they have no regular organization. At the recent election of speakers for the May exhibition of the literary society, Kappa Alpha Theta got both valedictory and salutatory, besides two speakers. We also have one of the honor places in the exercises on the 2 2d of February. Before another issue of the Journal the convention will have met, and among other things, it will be decided where the Journal will be published during the next two years. We sincerely hope that Kappa will consent to continue its publication. She has amply proved to us that she is worthy of the trust. Nu chapter was greatly pleased with the slight change in the dress of the Kappa Alpha Theta. It does not look so sombre as before. Nu has done little but talk of the convention for three months. If the other chapters have done likewise, we may expect an enthu¬ siastic meeting. We expect to have a good many of our “old girls” here then. May we not hope to have some visitors from the alumnae chapters? Nu sends best wishes to each and every chapter of the Kappa Alpha Theta. Mu. KAPPA. University of Kansas , Lawrence , Kansas. The year thus far has been a prosperous one for us. Our regular work has been varied by open meetings, and they have been among the most pleasant of our year’s experiences. Their most important feature is an address, the remainder of the session being devoted to music, conversation, and a “ spread .” Our pledged

Page 36

74 Chapter Correspondence . members are always present in full force. At the first of these meetings we listened to an address from Prof- Jas. H. Canfield, Professor of History, and one of the most brilliant members of our Faculty. His subject was the Story of a Life . We will not at¬ tempt to give any idea of the impression it produced on us, other than to say that it was one of those lives that leave all life purer and stronger, and that we each felt we were better women for having known its history. Mrs. Prof. Carruth gave us, at the second meeting, a very in¬ teresting lecture on German Women . Her travels abroad enabled her to give us a very vivid description of German life, and one that left us entirely satisfied with our lot as American girls. We have recently added three new names to our list: May Walker, Ella Ropes, and Bessie Root. Two more girls have also donned our colors: Martique Babcock, and Helen Simpson. In the Oread-Orophilian contest this year, our representative, Emma Bartell, won marked honors as declaimer. We have not entertained as much as usual this year. We have however given two very enjoyable parties, one at the home of May Webster, and another at that of May Walker. Sydney Dailey also opened her beautiful home in West Lawrence, and entertained her friends in honor of the Thetas. Progressive euchre, conversation, music and dancing made up a most delight¬ ful evening. About fifty were present. With best wishes to each sister chapter. Kappa.

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Alumna’ Letters. 75 JUumnm £dler4. Radnor Hall, Bryn Mawr, Pa., Feb. IO, ’87. Dear Girls: — First I must tell you where I am. Bryn Mawr is a station ten miles distant from Philadelphia, in fact hardly more than a suburb of the city. The word itself is of Welsh origin, and means High Hill. Now this village is at present interesting to me because here is located Bryn Mawr College, of most recent date among America’s colleges for women. This college was endowed by Dr. Joseph W. Taylor, of Burlington, New Jersey, who proposed to found an institution of learning for the “ advanced education” of women, which should afford them “all the advan¬ tages of a college education which are so freely offered to young men.” The site of the college was purchased and the buildings were begun during the lifetime of the founder, who died in 1880. In the same year the college was incorporated by the authority of the State of Pennsylvania, and invested with power to confer de¬ grees. In ’the spring of 1885 the first program was issued, and the college opened for instruction in the following autumn with forty-four students. At present there are about sixty-five in at¬ tendance. Our domestic organization is very similar to that of Vassar, Smith, and Wellesley. You may have noticed that this letter is dated at Radnor Hall. This hall is just completed, and is the second of a series of buildings contemplated in the future, each of which is intended to accommodate fifty students. Merion Hall is the name of the first building, and there we receive our physical refreshment this year, for Radnor is not as yet sufficiently filled so that it demands a dining-room of its own. Within easy access is Taylor Hall, which corresponds to our Main Building at Law¬ rence. These are all beautiful buildings, which I hope in the future, by the aid of photographs, to show to some of you. The gymnasium, the finest yet constructed for women, must not be

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76 Alumna Letters . forgotten, but want of time prevents me from even attempting a description. “To the John Hopkins University acknowledgement is espec¬ ially due, since from it has been borrowed the system of “major and minor electives in field combination.” I quote the preceding sen¬ tence from the program, partly because I wish to be accurate, and partly because I think this statement may excuse me if I do not attempt to explain a system difficult to undrrstand, and almost im¬ possible to explain, on paper, at least. Our institution here is of a superior character, and the standard of scholarship very high. If the intellectual work of the college does not appear to fill much space in this letter, it is not because it occupies an inferior position in the minds of the students, or in my own, but because it is easy and pleasant to talk of one’s surroundings, and perhaps more in¬ teresting for others to hear. I am studying Greek and German. Byrn Mawr is a Friends’ college. Of course we all know that Pennsylvania was the home of William Penn, and that Philadelphia is the city of Brotherly Love, but I think we never realize the strength of the Quaker faith in the State until we live here a few months. However, there is nothing at all peculiar in the manage¬ ment of the college that would indicate the faith of its founder, except the absence of all musical instruments. I will confess I look forward with pleasure to the time when I shall hear the sound of my piano at home. The larger number of the students are from Friends’ families, and most of them are from the State of Penusylvania, but Colorado sends two representatives, California one, and Nebraska one. When at school I had to write compositions; I believe in my college days they were dignified as essays and orations; I always preferred not to have too much material at hand, but thought I could do better with a few main facts concerning a subject than if I had a great mass of information to deal with. Now if this letter is unsatisfactory and fails to entertain you, it is because I have so much to tell I find it hard to choose what I shall say. I might tell of an amazing ignorance of the West that sometimes piques one’s

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Alum nee Letters. 77 pride, but on the whole is amusing; or I might tell you that the girls here are conservative, and only mention, for instance, a co¬ educational institution in a rather disapproving tone; and I certainly wish I could tell you of at least two peculiar characters that I have been trying to study lately, but dare not, for no one knows into whose hands this letter may fall after it is printed. I will only say that I never met a nicer set of young women, (nice is here used in its most comprehensive sense), and they have treated me very cordially, as they do all strangers. As I look over this letter it seems to me pretty well dotted with egotistic I’s, but I shall not change it, for I haven't time. I thought the last number of Kappa Alpha Theta the best yet issued, and shall welcome with pleasure the next number, for I appreciate now the sight of familiar names. Sincerely yours, Agnes Emery, Brandon, Vt., December 14, 1886. Dear Journal: — In the morning mail comes a request from Lambda that I should write a letter to the your mi! “ right away — at once.” Now it is not long since I used to share the consterna¬ tion produced by a sudden demand from headquarters for such and such a contribution at such and such a time. And from one of Kappa’s former board of editors I have heard graphic accounts of the woes and tribulations attendant upon the non-appearance of desired contributions. And so I hasten to comply, even though I have nothing to say. The Journal has been so often assured of its interest as a con¬ necting link among graduated members, that I need not add my mite of encouragement. To me, its interest is by no means con¬ fined to items concerning personal friends; there are the names grown familiar through chapter correspondence; and now and then a name that seems to possess a peculiar fascination for the fancy- I do wish to thank the Journal , however, for the splendid edi¬ torial on the action of the Phi Delta Theta of Athens, Ohio. It seemed a piece of unwarrantable impertinence, but as I must own myself one of “the grand ladies from the East,'’ doubtless I am not unbiased in my opinion. With sincere wishes for the prosperity of the Journal and its editors, I am, Yours in Theta, Jean A. Christie, Lambda, ’86.

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78 Personals . Delta. Mamie Caldwell is teaching music in Clinton. Sarah Van Pelt, ’86, spent the holidays in Chicago. Sadie Patton, ’86, is visiting her brother in Springfield. liilla Sikes, ’86, made us a pleasant visit before the holidays. Maud Pillsbury, ’86, is lying very sick at her home in Pontiac. Carrie Russell returned from her trip to the lakes, improved in health. A few friends enjoyed a parlor Christmas tree at the home of Altha Watson. Laura McCulloch, ’87, holds the office of president in Dells Lettres So ciety, this term. Luella Bradley, a Theta sister in Wisconsin, intends to start to Europe with her mother, in a short time. Mattie Myers assisted her mother in entertaining a large company on the evening of the 30th of December. Kappa. Alice Pettee is studying art in Chicago. Mildred Pickard is at her home in Washington, Kansas. Alice Cummings made a dying visit home a few days ago. Mrs. Ida (Bay) Duback spent a few days in Chicago, recently. Jean Anderson leaves soon, to return to her home at Atchison. Lizzie Pettee is attending aTadies’ school at Independence, Missouri. Ilattie Cook did not return after the holidays. She is sadly missed by Kappa. Miss Mattie Slavens, of Alpha, has been visiting Miss Lillian McMillan, of this city. May Walker, Bessie Root, and Ella Ropes are the latest additions to the ranks of K A 0. Mrs. Cora (Pierson) Hopkins, ’84, has been visiting her old home in this city for some time. Stella Overton has left school for this year. Kappa hopes to welcome her back next term. Alice Noble, of Dallas, Texas, spent a few days in this city, settling up her father’s business.

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Personals . 79 Mrs. Julia (Watson) Nicholson, ’81, of Topeka, is frequently to be seen in the halls of K. S. U. Kate Merrill, who has been studying music in New York city, will re¬ turn to complete her course at K. S. U. Mrs. Grace (Houghtellin) Finney, of Las Yegas, N. M., has returned to her home after a short visit in this city. Miss Maggie Eidemiller, *81, entertained a large number of her lady friends at an elegant lunch party, recently. Mrs. Carrie (Hastings) Fletcher surprised her Lawrence friends by a short visit, before going to her new home in Wichita. Josie Cook spent the winter in Michigan, attending her mother during her last illness. She is now at her home in Kansas City. Married— December 29th, Miss Mamie Hudson and Mr. Dell Kiser, both of Topeka. The best wishes of Kappa follow the happy couple. Married— October 27th, Miss Ida Hay, of Fort Scott, and Mr. George Duback, of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Duback will make Lawrence their future home. May Webster has been quite ill for some time, but is slowly recovering. It is a mooted question whether her indisposition is owing to the dissipa¬ tion of convention, or to the reception given her at the news that the Journal was to be returned. Mu. Miss M. E. T. Scott, ’86, is teaching at Forestville, New Y ork. Florence Sullivan, formerly of ’88, is teaching at Miles’ Grove, Pa. Sallie Welsh,’ 84, is organist in the Methodist church at Franklin. Pa Eary Fishbrim, ’90, was obliged to leave college on accou of poor health. Mr. and Mrs. Homer Bodley ( nee Lydia Wood), have gone to Baton Rouge, Miss., where they will make their future home. Nu. Crissie Gilchrist, ’85, has been called to the chair of Latin in Del Norte College, Del Norte, Colorado. Mrs. Joseph Ibach, one of Nu’s charter members, accompanied by her daughter Mary, spent the Thanksgiving holidays at her old home in Madison. Kate Piatt, ’86, has been obliged to give up her position as Instructor of Science in Michigan Female Seminary, on account of the severe illness of her mother. Dame Rumor whispers that ere long one of our sisters will take into her keeping the future happiness of a certain prominent young man. Of all the good wishes that may follow the happy couple, none will be more sincere than that of Nu.

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8o Advertisements. Kappa Alpha Theta Pins In All the Latest Styles, and of Artistic W orkmanship. YYre will semi on selection when desired. Do "not fail to see our badge before buying. IP. L. MILES & GO., Manufacturers of Fraternity Jewelry, &c., No. U Euclid Avenue. CLEVELAND, OHIO. dreka Fine Stationery and Engraving House, ii 2 i Chestnut Street, Philadelphia. Reception, Wedding, Commencement and Fraternity Invitations, '4, Fraternity Publications, Illustrations, &c. Correct Kappa Alpha Theta Stationery always on hand. Samples and Prices Mailed on Application.

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Adz ■ ertisements . Si J. S. CREW & CO., THE LEADING BOOKSELLERS. Students Supplied at Reduced Prices. Artists’ Materials. VVM. WIEDEMANN, Makes a Specialty of Manufacturing FUME CONFECTIONEMY AND ICE CREAM, DEALER in FRUITS and NUTS. ITsT EVERY VARIETY. Best in Quality. Finest in Finish. Manufactured by J. F JVF~WMA.Fr, Official Jeweler to the Fraternity, 19 JOHN STREET, 1ST K AV A" ( > I UK .

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. \d verti seme nts. THE LEADING DRY GOODS HOUSE OF KANSAS. The Dry Goods and Carpet House OF GEO. INNES, LAWRENCE, KANSAS, Asks the attention of the Ladies of Kansas State University, Ac., to its lovely stock of the Latest Novelties in Dress Goods, Velvets, Plushes and Silks, Also to their Beautiful Stock of JACKETS, WRAPS AND ULSTERS, Which for Variety, Cheapness and Magnitude has no equal in the State. WE ARE HEADQUARTERS FOR EVERYTHING IN OUR LINE: Kid Gloves, Cashmere Gloves, Silk Gloves, Mits, Corsets, Ruchings, Hosiery, Merino and Cotton Underwear. When you want any goods in our line be sure to call, GEO. UsTITIES, 313 Mass. Street.