Oberlin College eview. - Digital Resource Commons - Oberlin College

Oberlin College eview.
Vol. I. Wednesday, October 7, 1874. Number 13..
H'ontrilHiteil.l
Sympathy with All Ages.
I'KOF. i:. I liAHKOWS, I). I).
The mushroom may spring up in a night, but not the mighty
oak. This lias in it the growth of centuries. It has attained
to its present size only by continuous progress through these
centuries. A thunder-stor- m may produce a torrent, swollen,
turbid and roaring, hut when the shower is over the torrent
disappears with it. Not so the broad and ever-flowin- g Mis-
sissippi. That has a history. That has grown to its present
size by innumerable contributions all along its path. Even-lak- e
and spring, every shower of rain throughout the whole
valley ot the Mississippi is represented in the majestic tide of
waters which it pours from age to age into the Mexican Gulf.
Just so it is with history the history of mankind at large,
and especially the history of the kingdom of God. God's
Church is the river that has rolled down to us from Eden. It
has in it the whole course of Providence from the beginning.
The present is the product of the past ; and can be truly
studied and understood only in the light of the past.
Tor the better illustration of this let us take a small section
of Christendom, sav the Xew England States. What New
England is she
to-da- y,
is by virtue not merely of present in-
fluences coming upon her from without (though these have
their share of moulding power,) but emphatically by virtue
t her. past historv from the bcinniiiLr. But her history can-no- t
be separated from the character of the pilgrim fathers
lio founded her. Their character, again, was formed in Old
Kland. in the midst of that stern conflict for civil and
relig-,,,U- s
bedom, which shook the nation to its centre. Neither
earlier nor later in the historv of Great Britain could she have
sent forth such a sturdy, uncomprom sing band of Christian
freemen. But the conflict of their day grew, necessarily, out
of the previous current of British history in two distinct but
mterlocking.streams that of their civil, and that of their ecclesiastical
establishment. And the underlying, animating:
Principle of both was Christianity. This links the revolution
Great Britain, in Cromwell's day, with the struggles of the
Christian Church from the primitive ages; and thus with the-- .
Whole history of the Mosaic religion; for out of this was dc- -
sloped Christianity. As the New Testament cannot be separated
from the Old, so neither can the Christian from the
Jewish Church. Both together constitute, ;ii God s plnn, one
indivisible whole. The New Eng'tmd of to day has in --
herself, then, the whole history of Goo's Church from the be
i
'
ginning this historv linked in, as it has ever been, with that
of the civil governments of the world.
Since, now, the present is a product of the past, and can be
truly undertood only in its light, it follows, that to neglect or
'despise the past is a mark of folly. It is this which consti-
tutes false radicalism. - The radical man, in the bad sense of
the term, has no sympathy with anything that has existed be-
fore him. He knows nothing but the present, and he acts
upon the supposition that to the men of his age belong all the
treasures of wisdom. The natural consequence is a destruc-
tive policy, that pulls down without either the skill or the pow-
er to build. He finds everything human marked with im-
perfection, and his plan is to set all aside without ceremony,
to make way for his theories of a perfect order of things. Of
this spirit the leaders of the first French revolution were the
incarnation. Their idea was to abolish the whole fabric of
the past, that they might begin with their "Year One." The
result is known to the whole world.
But while a deep sympathy with the past operates, on the
one hand, as a preservative from this false radicalism, it opposes
itself, on the other, to that false conservatism, which
aims to petrify society in its present form, as if all change
were degeneration; while a true knowledge of history shows
that society has attained to its present state only through the
experience of successive generations. It also teaches that it
is not the plan of Providence that the world should ever be-
come stationary. As it has always been moving forward, un-
der God's guiding hand, towards something higher and bet-
ter in the future, so it must continue to move. It is a river
that cannot stop anywhere in its progress to the final consummation.
' If at times its current, like that of the Arar, described
by Civsar, is so gentle that it seems to be motionless,
it is still bqrnc onward by a resistless force. Attempt to ar-
rest it and you make a Niagara. An inward power, which
nothing can destroy or withstand, is carrying society forward
from stage to stage, in accordance with God's high purposes.
Whoever, then, has a true sympathy with the past, must
have also, a warm sympathy with the future, ever looking
forward to it with those exalted hopes which Scripture
warrants him in cherishing. And since it is through the
present that the past and the future are connected, he must
have, likewise, a warm sympathy with the present. Such a
man will believe that God is at work in the present, as he has
been' in the past, and will be in the future; that while the
principles ot his government arc immutable, the application
of them to human society, must bring in the future innumer-
able changes, as it has done in the past. As he will not dc- -

98 Oberlin College Review.
sire change for its own sake, so neither will he look upon all clilCctions of the students are in sympathy with the positions
change with suspicion, as if it must be, of itself, an evil. Such tajen tjlc instructor, investigation ceases, inquiry is at an
a man, who has sympathy with all ages, is the only true re- -
former. ,
lost
IContnluitcit.T
New Blood in Education.
, , investigation,
cm tjlc ;nlcrest 0f the student flags, and the instructor has
a great incentive to effort. The method changes from an
common to all,
ft ' to dogmatic
"
assertion
one hanc1' and Passivc receptivity on the other.
on the
That this is not the proper preparation for the battle of life,
It seems to be a principle, founded alike upon nature and will be accepted upon mere assertion. The graduate, instead
revelation, that, for the highest development of the human of coming forth a strong man, armed and confident in his skill
race, the blood of near degrees of consanguinity must not and prowess, proved in a hundred encounters, knows neither
be mingled. And, as if to prove that a law which works llis strength nor his weakness. He knows not how to avoid
secretly and in silence can control the greatest events, it is an attack, because he never has been attacked, and fails to
confidently asserted that the great nations of the world have Profit by. victory, because he never fought a battle and never
been mixed nations, and that the progressive stage in each won a victory.
corresponded with, or immediately succeeded, the infusion of two remedies lie within the rcath of the student. lie
new blood. Striking as this fact in history is, and generally ,na' take his course partly in one college and partly in
admitted as is this principle, it does not seem to have occurred anthcr ; or, he may insist that, whenever it is practicable,
to many educators that the same law holds true in the world m a changes in the faculty, new men men educated elsc- -
of ideas, and should be recognized in every system of in- - where shall be appointed to fill vacancies,
struction. New methods and new ideas are as necessary to The first has many discomforts, among which are the scve- -
colleges as new men and new blood are to families. "g of many pleasant ties, and the idle and sometimes un- -
Such is the dearth of originality, that he who originates a just criticisms of those who imagine that a college has a lien
single idea may fairly claim to be an original man. Many uPon the education which it gives its students. The second
men have lived, been called great, and died without enter- - is 80 clearly for the advantage of the college at large, as well
taining an idea not acquired from without. Not only this, as ot llle individual student, that he may claim it is as a right,
but the stock of ideas possessed by each individual is small, The current plea that it is necessary to have instructors whose
and, when called upon to convey them, he quickly exhausts views arc il perfect sympathy, is the offspring of timidity,
them. This is true of instructors, as well as of other men. aml possibly, bigotry. Opinions which cannot hold their
They, accordingly, are induced, cither voluntarily or involun- - own in a fair fight are not worth maintaining by less frank
tarily, to use constant repetition, perhaps not of language, but methods.
of idea and of thought. So well recognized is this among Xuw mea will bring new methods, some of which, it is fair
to Pastime, will be improved methods. A new method,
students, that the shrewd ones have been known to prophesy
what would be the sage reflections of some professor upon cven if not intrinsically better, where introduced by way of
a future lesson, and it is a matter of universal experience that clian?e, often will serve to awaken interest. A new man,
a thoroughly annotated text-boo- k rarely needs revision in the moreover, has a reputation to make, and is more nearly meas- -
hands of subsequent classes. It consequently results that an
urcd according to his merits. He will exert himself more
institution soon acquires a fixed set of ideas in matters of dis- - strenuously, make a better record, and accomplish more than
c.phne, of morals, of manners, a.id upon all the questions he would were he placed in a corresponding position in the
arising ,n a college course. This status, so long as the men faculty of hi Alma Mate. A new man will teach his asso- -
remain the same, can change only as the individual instruct- ciatcs - many things, and thus exert an 'indirect influence
ors progress in knowledge But in poverty-stricke- n colleges, scarcely less latent for the good of the student,
w ere the faculty are paid starvation salaries, and each mem- h is - not a kindness to promote a student or an alumnus to
er is required to do the work of three or four men, the ac- -
the Posit'on of tutor or professor in the college where he has
action of new ideas by the instructors i,, and must continue 1,ccn educated. It would be better for him to go elsewhere,
to be, exceedingly small. A student soon learns about all
aml bc"er for his Alma Mater to have some one else to fill
such instructors can give outside of the
his
text-book- s, and as if Pla. A Z
2 r A'X" a,ettcnd:"Men
thcmselves ha" cdu- - g.ve me
cited
credit
havXitcSlrT
for
and
genius.
where the ,,m,
All the genius I have, lies just in
CntC,tainCd ",at ",C- -
T' WhC" 1 lm'C " !" LiXy.
1 "
This does !'
1CfrC ",0- - 1
not influence the student ""
alone Th '
I ' 7
" " n
effect ' Ca" thc fr,lIt of - upon the B'- lt is the l of
1 n me instructor
instructor. IWr Nothing so well enforces cftort Wand of thought" '
and accuracy on '
the part of a teacher as a skeptical ' W Tl ,
inquiring class of students " If ,t aU ,i, P'C.I'"1'S and pre- - thing for. a man to
'
do all he can".
,he , lh's saying is attnhuted to John I5rown: '--
It is
a mighty

Contributed.
Personal Liberty.
j. w. welsh, '78. '
The idea of liberty has been as a mighty pillar, around
which all the great conflicts of earth have gathered and
raged ; for it heroes have toiled and suffered, for it multi-
tudes of martyrs have laid down their lives. It has been the
theme of nations and the song of poets, and, in its name, the
grandest and most sublime sacrifices recorded in history have
been made. And yet, the majority of men are slaves; aye,
slaves more servile and abject than is the poor wretch who
cowers in fear beneath the driver's lash.
I grant that the cry of the oppressed has been heard and
answered that the clank of the bondsman's chain is no
longer heard in the civilized .world. But, what is slavery ?
Is it bodily bonds ? No ; the body is but a senseless clod.
Load a man with chains until he is bowed to the very earth,
and yet that man is free as air. The mind is the man, and
restraint, unless self-impose- d, has no relation to it. But
here men have committed a grave error. By their own acts
they have forged the fetters which enslave their minds, and
the mighty conflicts of the future, in which Truth and Error
are to be the champions, will have for their object the redemption,
not of the body, but of the mind, from bondage.
The present age is styled the Era of Emancipation. It is
a period of unrestrained license. But its freedom is an al-
most perfect type of servitude. Looking at the condition of
men, we can but see that it is a mockery to call them free.
Passion numbers her devotees by millions. The demon,
Rum, holds high carnival in every land, and drags thousands
of helpless victims at his chariot wheels ; and every vice is
represented by multitudes of votaries, who bow in abject servility
to its power.
It is called a liberal period, the Golden Age, in which Rea-
son sits enthroned, dictating the progress of the world, and
proclaiming universal freedom to humanity. And yet, in almost
all departments of mental action, men arc enslaved by
their reverence for authority and precedent. They pay tri-
bute to and allow themselves to be controlled by, the cus-
toms, and-system- s schools of the past, which have no more
relation to the vital necessities of the present than a senseless
mummy from the catacombs of Egypt has to a living man of
the nineteenth century. The professions, especially, are more
or less affected by this peculiar and pernicious characteri-
stic. The law is so encumbered and hedged in by ancient
technicalities, formulas and customs, that the chances of the
individual for obtaining justice depend entirely upon whether
his case conforms to them in every respect. Medicine is a
conglomeration of ancient and musty theories, rather than the
product of sound, practical, common sense. Theology goes
backward rather than forward for its inspiration, and, in its
servilc reverence for antiquated doctrines and dogmas, it too
often ignores both the revelations of Nature, God's great ex
Oberlin College Review.
99
ponent and interpreter, and the progress of the race, and
rushes blindly on in obedience to the dictates of a dead past,
while the living issues of the present, the mighty problems
which interest humanity now, plead in vain for attention.
Men, in general, pay homage to the supposed infallibility of
their own opinions. They are controlled in their action by
prejudice, by petty animosities, by party spirit and sectarian
zeal, and thus their influence is limited and their power for
good in a great degree nullified. Can a man be called free
who allows himself to be wrought upon by any outside influ-
ence until it becomes the absolute dictator of his actions?
No, that man alone is free who rules his own mind, and is
master of his own life who is swayed by no idle influence,
with a pure heart, a clear conscience and clean hand, can,
in the strength of his own manhood, stand firm amid the
great, writhing, seething sea of human life, with enmity
toward none and charity for all ; who, with an unbiased
judgment and an unselfish purpose, can look on dispassionately,
and estimate at their true value all the elements which
enter into the great structure of human association. Such a
man enjoys perfect liberty. He is under no restraint, simply
because he has no desire to transgress law. His life is in har-
mony with the spirit of the universe, in which, though all
things are subject to law, yet all things are free, because they
never come in contact with that law. He labors for humani-
ty, because he loves the brotherhood as a whole. He serves
God, not because he believes him to be the God of his particular
sect or people, but becattpe he is the God of all the nations.
He endeavors to see things as they are, and, condemning
falsehood, he strives to honor truth. There is grandeur,
and dignity, and power in such a life. It raises a man above
all the distinctions of wealth and caste ;' above all selfish ani-
mosities and interests ; above all homage to rank and power,
and places him where he can look up with a pure adoration,
and down with a true charity. It releases him from all bond-
age to creeds, and introduces him to the freedom of the sons
of God. He is the peer of angels, and walks the earth a
prince, knowing and feeling that no power can deprive him
of this liberty, to which he is joint heir with God.
Ah, this is liberty ; this perfect emancipation of the mind ;
how little there is of it in the world, and how much the world
needs it !
IIow we go, groping and stumbling, and wrailing through
the darkness ! The slaves of vice, the victims of passion,
the creatures of impulse ; hampered and walled in by preju-
dice and bigotry ; spurred onward by false ideas of duty, and
trembling with fear, when for eacji of us there is a sphere of
perfect liberty, in which God intended we should walk and
work untrammelled, without fear and without reproach.
Difference between Church and State in France: One
has a religion independent of morality; the other a morality
independent of religion. Here the negation of the true God,
there the assertion of a false deity. Pere Hyacinth.

100 Oberlin College Review.
OBERLIN COLLEGE REVIEW.
A Semi-Monthl- y your mil, devoted to the Interests of Oberlin College
TEl'MS: One year $1"A). Sin-- le Copies 10 cents.
The llEviEW is published each alternate Weilnesilav, duriiii,' ih.f College Year,
s of the I'nion
and monthly during the Winter vacation, under the aiis.ii.-e-
Library Association, spare will lie devoted to articles bv the Alumni ami
members of the College Faculty. Some of the best productions of the Undergraduates
will also appear. J.ocal Items and Personals will have a vcrv prominent
place.
All Communications with reference to the Editorial Department and Subscriptions,
should be addressed to
.1. A. WINTERS, Oiuau.lN, ().
All Communications pertaining to Advlktisinu, or the Publishing Department,
should be addressed to
PRATT & PiATTLK, PiBLisiiiais.
Extra copies may be had at Regal's I!ooktore.
E A DIES LITERARY.
Alice I). Akmsisv.
Till KAPPA PI.
M. STAKK.
EDITORIAL BOARD.
J. A. WiXTr.r.s, Editor-in-Chie- f.
SOCIETY EDITORS.
ALPHA ZETA.
E. K. Faihciiild.
J-'EIO- I AN.
Em i:n A. IIaykx.
Pill DELTA.
A. T. Pri!Ni:i.t..
Ix accordance with the announcement in the last Review
with this issue begin the labors of a new Board of Editors'
As we f take up the work assigned to us, a few words to our
readers, by way of explanation and greetinr mav not be in-appropriate.
It was one great purpose of those who originated the Review,
to present to the Alumni a paper which would com-mai- n
then respect, and help to cement more firmly the ties
which bind them to their Alma Mala: To accomplish this
it was thought best to devote a certain space to articles from
the I acuity and Alumni themselves, and to present, also such
matters relating to the present working and prospects of the
College as would be of interest to those who had formerly
enjoyed its privileges. That this purpose has not been a failure,
no better testimony is needed than the fact that our subscription
list already shows a very fair proportion it Alumni
subscribers, whose numbers are being gradually increased
In. the purpose named was not the only one which the
ioumlers ot the Review had before them. Oberlin College
with her thirteen hundred students yearly, was certainly no
barren field m which to plant a college paper. The m.es-tio- n
then presented itself, how can the interest of this body
of students be aroused to the support of such a paper? A review
of the ground suggested the means : by iivinj,
dent public,
thc stu
through the proposed paper, a view of those organizations
of college hie, in which the students themselves
Tu'T:J ? .thi the objection that a
JtllJLI - uouiu iniurc the literary
'""-n-il , societies, nwLicues, byy
the
turnin lurmiif
. i
surplus energy which had made them the
"A
equals
'nt
of any
channerT12"1101-1- C0.U,,tr i,Uo
1
channel, lo meet this objection, a premium, as it were was
to be paid upon earnest literary effort, by Win, phce to
some ot the best public and society exercised, th eby1 eh in
to increase thc zeal for thorough society work ' 1 "
semlal0 V8rioU8 80cial 77 fl'aturM f
The I he indent life.
be
e must taken mto account, for what
to
could possibly tend
ihat interest students more in such an enterprise, ban the fa"
i vas m complete sympathy with their daily exne, en cc
Suielv, Oberlin could not all CO c'Jof
reqnent
communication hi, these, arisingft"
'
feeling create,) by ,be e.chane of Coilee er
We have thus hastily reviewed the principal motives that
prompted the founding of the Review, and have given a
general idea of the plan which it seemed best to follow in its
management, that our readers may more clearly understand
the diiliculties under which any Hoard of Editors must labor,
because of the diversity of interests which need to be considered.
In looking over the history of the Review, we see much
to commend many features which may well be taken as
models bv present and future Editors. In carrying out the
general plan of the paper, and in imparting to it a high literary
tone, our predecessors were eminently successful. Hut it
would indeed be strange, it, with no previous experience of
the kind, a paper had been presented which needed no improvement.
It would be still more strange, if, in the time which
has elapsed since the first issue, no new light had dawned
upon the minds of those interested, as to the character which
such a paper must have, in order to receive the sympathy and
support of all classes.
Ve are sure that we express the opinion of those previously
connected with the Review, in saving that, althoi" h
very acceptable to our students, it has not placed itself in such
intimate relationship with them, as to cause a real desire, on
their part, for its success. The society exercises which have
appeared from time to time, while of the highest literary merit,
have not been of a character to meet with general favor. A
reform seems to be demanded in this direction. Hereafter,
we shall admit fewer society articles, and as our circumstances
permit, shall rely on articles written expressly for the paper.
We believe that such articles can be obtained, and call
upon our Professors, Alumni and students, to rally to the support
of their paper.
In our Local and Personal departments, also, a change
seems necessary. These arc to represent every department
of the Institution, Theological. College and Preparatory. It
is due to the lower classes that the paper be made a representative
of their interests, as well as of those of thcologues or
members of the upper classes; for to the preparatory students
we look in no slight degree for support. In thus presenting
matters pertaining to every department and class; wc shall
help to kindle anew that fraternal feeling between thc upper
and lower classes, which has been such' a prominent feature
in the history of our College. The Alumni can think no less
of the Review because of this change. Once they were
students in classes of similar grade to those now doing thc
work; and what graduate can there be, to whose mind These
incidents of our own college life will not recall others of bygone
years, in which he or she was an actor?
With this cursory explanation of plans for thc coming year,
we lay aside the pen. Many will probably be our mistakes
many the lessons to be learned. The plan proposed may
not be carried out in all its minutia", but. however that may
be, our time will not be misspent, if we can make the Review
as acceptable as it has been in the past.
Reus ratio v is not so unimportant a matter that the student
can afford to overlook it. Many an eminent scholar,
whose health has given way after a long and continued
strain of the mind, has realized only too late the danger that
lies in w;iU work and no play."
What sort of exercise, then, shall we have r
In the early days of this college, sawing wood was supposed
to oiler thc desirable union of physical exertion and
mental stimulus which was necessary for the relief of the
cramped limbs and overtaxed brain of the student, the
theory being that change of work was rest. The pecuniary
benefit ot this mode of retention, perhaps, enhanced its at-Iractio-
At the present day this old-tim- e notion
ns
meets
with Ittlc acceptance. Hard work loses none of its disagreeable
qualities from the fact that it is called recreation.

Obcrlin College Review.
In many colleges, the gymnasium presents a convenient
way of gaining the necessary exercise and relaxation. Some
of the students in our ow n institution have shown a
com-mcndah- le
activity in litting up a building with the appropriate
apparatus for gymnastic exercises, and in procuring a
teacher. Hut this mode of exercise seems to lack the essential
element of popularity, and hence, is available only for a few.
For several years, base ball has been the favorite amuse-meir- t
of our students, and almost every pleasant afternoon
has found a company of youths, in fantastic attire, engaged
in the game, with a "devoted enthusiasm which wouhf have
delighted the professors' hearts, had it only been applied to
their studies. Knocks, bruises and weariness, were borne
with courageous indifference, and in no wise interfered with
their enjoyment and intercut in the game, but we question
whether the pain and exhaustion were borne quite so philosophically
when the next day's lessons demanded attention.
The great fault of the game of base ball, as usually conducted,
is. that it defeats the primary object of exercise for
the student, namely, the preparation" of the mind and body
for literary work. Within a short time, this game has been
supplanted by that of foot ball, and now students of every
grade, from the grave and sedaie theologue to the newly
Hedged " prep," join in the sport with equal zest. Here, certainly,
is exercise for the body. Is there rest for the mind ?
On the principle of a reaction for every action, we conclude
there is a deep rest, if it equals the unrest in the minds
of the unfortunates whom duty compels to cross Tappan
Square, in the vicinity of (he players. J ?ut this game is open
to the same objections as that of bac ball. As an occasional
amusement, it is excellent, but, for daily exercise, something
less exhausting is preferable.
All health writers agree in pronouncing the exercise of
walking veiy beneficial. The body is kept in an erect position,
and most of the muscles are brought into action. In the
Lnglish universities, a long walk is a part of the daily routine
of almost every student. Why is it that so few of our students
are in the habit of taking daily exercise in this way ?
A brisk walk in the bracing air of October will drive away
melancholy, rest the body, clear the brain, and leave the
student in just the condition to prepare his lessons in a manner
satisfactory to himself and gratifying to his teachers.
Think of it."
It is a lact, which is growing more and more into notice,
that the culture of American youth, like that of the French,
has been calculated to make "the youth feel that his country
is the greatest country in the world ; that the greatest he-roe- s,
generals, poets and statesmen of the world are his
countrymen ; that no country can compare with his own in
resources ; no people with his own in bravery, and no land
with his own, in scenery, soil, climate, productions anil inhabitants.
bile the proper amount of such culture is very neces-s:"'- y
to the youth, and is highly beneficial in its results, it
still holds true that such education has been carried to an
alarming extreme.
W e have the legitimate fruit of such a course in the fact
that Americans are known to the rest of the world as spread
eagles. It is the remark of a Boston man that "the sun rises
in the Fast, w here I come from." "Yes," was the reply, "but
don't stay there long." This is a good illustration of our
feeling as a nation, and of the local jealousies which we sus-- t
un among ourselves.
While we may boast that we constitute the Xew World,
md oiK. district of country may call herself the Oreat West,
t is well to remember that our own greatness is merely great-'J- s
on the map. Our national literature, if, indeed, a collec-t- i
)ii of tracts, essays, stump-speeche- s, compilations and I'at-- c
it Ollice reports can be called a literature, is as yet in its
'"fancy, and the depth of culture we have attained must be
IOI
measured by the growth of our literature. Our aesthetic
culture is still in the germ. But, while wc have as yet no
superstructure, the foundation of our national character has
been deeply laid. Our common school system, like that of
(jennany, must, in time, produce universities of ripe scholarship,
philosophical lore and scientific attainments. Carlyle
lias said : "The modern university must be mainly a collection
of books to which the students can refer,"" and the
remark is one of great significance. Such universities, with,
perhaps, one or two exceptions, are not to be found on this
continent. The essential thing in correcting a fault is, to be
well aware of it. The need is, that wc, as students, become
aware of our own, our national weakness, and be awake to
all means of reforming it, and developing a thoroughly
American culture.
A MKMoii: written by a friend of its subject i generally to be
avoided, since it is necessarily founded on the Do mortnhmil nisi
hnunm principle, it ran hardly be expected to instruct, or even to'
please any outside of a limited circle of admirers of the author or
ol Ins subject. When, however, we find a work of this kind edited
$-u- - "A1'11 :,S Kill,,h T Emerson,. Jaines Freeman Clarke, and
illiam If . (.banning, we have a right to expect that it will, in a
great measure, rise above this common fault. The Memoir of
Margaret Fuller, written by the gentlemen just named, has been
recently placed on the shelves of our library.' The work is interesting
and in most respects worthy of its authors; but it is too
long, and would be more acceptable to the general reader if the
two volumes were reduced to one. We are instinctivelv curious to
know something of the inner life and thought of one whoj--e public
career has interested us. The present work fully meets this want in
regard to one of America's noblest daughters. Margaret Fuller
was not, perhaps, a great woman, but iter's was truly a noble
gifted and useful life, and as such it deserves more than a passing "
notice.
Fart first is an auto-biographieal
sketch of her childhood and
youth, not written for publication, and is, therefore, quite naturally
the most interesting portion of the book. In the second chapter
Mr. J. F. Clark gives an account of his acquaintance with Margaret,
in a slow and cautious manner, as if afraid of revealing too
much. Mr. Emerson, on the contrary, takes the reader atonee
into his confidence, and in a series of pleasant essays, presents
with entire impartiality his impressions and estimates of his friend.
Dr. ( banning follows, in his usual graceful and dignified style,
giving an account of a different portion of her life. Her European
experience is given in extracts from her own letters, and the book
doses with an account of the sad and fatal homeward voyage.
The life of Margaret Fuller is an example of a purely intellectual
existence, separated as far as possible from the physical. Her
father early observed indications of a superior mind in his eldest
child, and resolved to superintend her education himself. While
still a mere child she was subjected lo a course of discipline which
rivalled in severity the curriculum of any American college. At
the age of fifteen she could read fluently Latin and Greek, converse
readily in German, French and Italian, and was better read in
History and Philosophy than most college graduates. This hotbed
growth, however, was made at the expense of health, and of
those nameless social graces in which the greatest charm of woman
lies. With no companions of her own age, taught to regard her
own mind as superior to all around her, she grew up cold,
haughty and imperious. She was particular in the selection of her
friends, but when once she had made her choice, all this haughtiness
and reserve disappeared, and she uwda them love her whether
they would or no. She was undoubtedly the finest conversationalist
of the century, and none whom she chose to win could resist
her power. It was here that her greatest strength lay, and to this
her remarkable influence was due. As a writer she met with good
success, but was herself never quite satisfied with her productions.
Emerson says: kk Her pen was non-conduc- tor a She always took
it up with some disdain, thinking it a kind of impiety to report a
life so warm and cordial." Her mind would not wait for that
perfection and accuracy of detail, so essential in an influential
writer. Of her poetry she herself says with justice : "My verses,
1 am ashamed when I think there' is scarce a line of poetry in
them, all rhetorical and impassioned, as Goethe said of De Stael."
The great aim of her life was the perfect development of herself,
audit was not until after her voyage to Europe, and her trying
experience in Italy, that the latent elements of a nobler life were
called forth. Then, however, she blossomed into a purer womanhood,
but only in time to be transplanted to that larger sphere, for
which she was just beginning truly to prepare.

102
LOCAL MATTERS.
Obcrlin College Review.
Thk Oberlin Sabbath School Association, hold a union meeting
in the First Church, on Sunday, the 27th of September. The President
of the Association, Mr. R. G. McClelland, 74, called the meeting
to order at two o'clock, P. M. Notwithstanding the inclemency
of the weather, and the storm which had continued for the two
days preceding, the church was well tilled, and the delegations
from the country were large. One district, seven miles distant, was
represented by a delegation of twenty-tw- o. The exercises were
opened by the song, "Jesus the Water of Life will (Jive." The
singing was led by W. B. Chamberlain, 7.". After a prayer by Mr.
H. IT. Bawden, of the Baptist Church, Pres. McClelland made a report
of the work done by the Association during the past year. He,
stated that great interest had been manifested in the schools, and
that through their instrumentality souls had been saved, lie also
informed us that the surrounding region, for a distance of six or
seven miles either way, was represented in the meeting, and that a
similar meeting was then being held in Pittslield.
The children then sang with great enthusiasm, "My Sabbath
Home." Rev. Mr. Brand, of the First Church, then made some interesting
remarks, welcoming the children. He alluded to the
first Sabbath he spent in Oberlin, just one year ago. He closed
with an earnest appeal to children to choose the better part.
Professor Ellis, of the Second Church, followed. He told of a
Sunday School which he attended thirty years ago, held on Tappan
Square, when the trees of the forest still stood where the dwellings
of Oberlin have since been placed. They had no Sunday School
room, but met in a large tent. This Sunday School was held on
the 4th of July. Tie alluded to the prejudice which at that time
existed against Oberlin, and claimed that the Association had done
good work in assistingto remove that prejudice.
Like Jesus" was then sung.
The hymn, "More
Deacon Wright, Superintendent of the Second Church School, reviewed
the lessons of the first month of the last quarter, and beautifully
portrayed the character of Moses. The beautiful son-- '
"Land Ahead," was then sung with spirit.
.Mr. Goodrich, of the First Church School, reviewed the second
month of the quarter, commenting upon the miracles of Jesus, and
drawing from them practical lessons for the schools. The audience
joined the children in singing, "Come to the Savior." Bro. Haw-de- n
then commented on the lessons of the last month ; the baptism
of Jesus; Herod's gift; the feeding of the multitude, and the healing
of the Syro-Phu'nici- an woman. After the hymn, "Coronation,"
the benediction was pronounced by the Rev. Mr. Brand, and the
meeting dispersed.
The affairs of the Association are prospering. The meeting was
one of great interest and will be long remembered.
At present the Association has 15 schools under its control, and
musters 42 teachers and an average attendance of 400 pupils.
Wk have seen street cars and omnibuses that might have been
patented by Goodyear, for they stretch equal to his best india rubber,
and there is always "room for one more;" but the Ladies'
Hall does not appear to belong to this class of articles. It is lull
and can hold no more, unless some adventurous ones wish to
"camp out" up garret. We are told that several young ladies
came last week for whom places could not be found. The Hall
deserves its popularity, for those in it testify that it is a pleasant
home.
tsS-itdkx-
will find in our advertising columns notices from some
of the lice business men of the place.
At the monthly meeting of Phi Kappa Pi, the critique was presented
by Mr. Rogers, 7c. It was a rather severe review of the
exercises of the preceding week. The society then engaged in the
discussion of the question, "Was the Policy of the United States toward
Maximilian's Government in Mexico wise?" The debate
was opened in the affirmative by Mr. Shutt, of 77. He presented
ins arguments clearly, but lacked energy and interest in sustaining
them. Mr. Frost, 7. opened the negative. He had evidently
studied the question carefully, and freely criticised the conduct of
our Government.
The monthly election resulted in the choice of II. H. Hart, 7."), as
Pres.; W. G. Frost. 70, Vice Pres.; and W. C. Calland, 77, as Secretary.
The regularity with which some of the members arrive
at half-pa- st seven is suggestive of the terminus of the ladies' hours
of recreation. More diligence, brethren.
The monthly meeting of Phi Delta occurred Sept. .), 1874.
Mr. Longhead, 7, presented the critique, which was a rigid
review of the written exercises of the previous week, and of the
debate so often ignored by critics.
The discussion followed upon the question, " Should Congress,
legislate concerning railroad tariffs V The regular disputants,
Monroe, 77, on the affirmative, and Ogan, 7, on the negative,
presented some well weighed thoughts, and in a systematic
manner; but the main arguments were brought forward in the
general debate which was enthusiastic, and exhaustive.
In monthly election the following officers were chosen : Presi-
dent, Brown, Vice-Preside- 7.V, nt, Tracy,
Marks, 7.).
7." ; Recording Secretary,
Alpha Zeta held her monthly meeting last Friday evening. Mr.
D. P. Allen, 7", presented the critique, which was an able and
comprehensive review of the exercises of the previous meeting.
The old question, "Was Shakespeare the author of the plays com-
monly attributed to him," was discussed with airood deal of enthu-sias- m,
notwithstanding its throadbareness. Messrs. (J. A. Sessions
77, and W. S. Scarborough, 7.", were the leading disputants.
The election for monthly officers resulted in the choice of I. W.
Fitch, 7.), for President; D. D. Clayton, 7c, for
Vice-Preside- nt,
and J. C. Harris, 7i, Secretary.
D. P. Allen, 7-"- , and J. D. Mills, 7."), were selected to represent
the society at Ciiion Exhibition.
The society ratified the new constitution of U. L. A., being the
last of the constituent 'associations to take action upon the matter.
Wk give below a synopsis of the Monthly Rhetorical Exercises
which were delivered Monday, Oct. 3. Space forbids an extend-
ed notice of each.
Freshmen: li.lt. Adams, "The Battle of Gettvsburg;" W. L.
Anderson, "Importance of Systematic Beading;" W. A. Bowen,
'Independence of Character;" C. S. Brown," Written Language;"
A. M. Countrymen, "Past and Present of Truth and Error."
Music Beethoven's .)th Symphony; Prof. Bice, and Miss Wattles.
Sophomores: M. (. Alexander, "Sympathy;" F. A. Churchill,
"Causes of the French Defeat;" A. S. Eaton, "Home."
Juniors: L. W. Burr, Poem, "The Mind's Employ;" E. Cooke,
"The Spirit of Bevereuce;" Miss E. C. Akers, "Schiller."
Music Solo, Miss Rosa Allen.
Seniors: J. p. W. Brown, "Philosophy of History;" D. H.
Flett, "Enthusiasm a Condition of Success."
Bkv. J. H. ViNCLxr, D. D., will be present at a Sabbath School
Institute to be held in this place, Oct. 15. In the evening of the
ime day he will deliver his celebrated lecture entitled, "That
Hoy."

Ohcrlin College Review.
Foot Bali.. The campus has been a scene of groat activity latently,
ami foot hall bids lair to become a pt-riiianc- institution. The
theologies especially seems to think that muscular Christianity is
the need of the pulpit, ami manifest considerable vim, ministerial of
course. While they were recently dispJayingtheir agility, a bystander
might have, heen heard cxchiiining,"IIow heautiful are the feet of
them that bring good tidings." The Seniors were recently inter-
rupted in their game hy some outsider, who at first intruded upon
the ground, and then captured the hall, carrying it to a great dis-
tance. The ball was with ditlicully recovered, and as the outsiders
continued to manifest their insolence, they were politely requested
to vacate the premises, and leave them to the students, which request
they coolly refused, with the threat of further interference if the
game was continued. Finding nothing else would do, the Captain
of the Seniors laid bold of one of the most forward, and assisted
his departure. At this juncture the Captain was assaulted
hy another burly outsider. The mob then speedily gathered
for the defence of their leaders, and the Seniors hastened to protect
their comrades. For awhile a eonllict seemed imminent, but
better counsels prevailed and now it is "all quiet along the Potomac."
At the present writing the theologies are champions at
foot ball. The Sophs, and Freshmen are breathing out defiance to
the ministers and the prospect is exciting.
Oxk night last week, lout; after the curfew-be- ll had rung, and
honest men and birds had become quiet, an " Hew in the window
of a certain young lady's room at the Hall. After exploring to his
satisfaction, be perched himself not
"On Hi. icilli l bust of 1 'nl las
.lust ii'iou I In cliaiiilit r i!nr,"
but on a bracket, whence be could look down with serene and pat-- ,
ronizing gravity upon the astonished ladies who came to visit him
next morning. What brought his owMiip from " The nights' Plutonian
shore," located somewhere in neighboring cornfields? Is
hoaorf fl,jvr of the bats and owls which will inhabit the Ladies'
Hall when it becomes a venerable ruin? or is he draw 11 hither by
the love which. all his tribe is know n to bear to Creek, and logic
and philosophy? We tiut it is Only this and nothing more."
h:oK. C. H. Cnuinriu. jrave the first of the Institute lectures,
Tuesday night, Sept. His subject was
'
-
M
e
c
h
-
a
n
i
c
a
l
Ceogra-ph- y
how to teach it." W ith a louple of glo'ies the Professor illustrated
in his clear and pleasant way, the change of seasons, change
of relative length of day and night, and various other points, giving
many .valuable hints as to the best method of teaching this di-
vision of geography ; the division o poorly handled hy the average
common school teacher. Those who attend these lectures will certainly
gain much from them. The second lecture was delivered by
Prof. Forbes, of Cleveland. His subject w as "School Covernment.''
Prof. Forbes presented his thoughts in a clear and satisfactory
manner.
I)R. As-sociati- on,
D10 J.kwis w ill lecture for the benefit of the Cymnasiuin
Monday evening, October 12. Dr. Lewis' reputation as
H lecturer is national. His thorough culture and extended obser-
vation eminently qualify him for the lecture platform. The fact
that he originated the Woman's Movement against Intemperance,
' this State, has greatly increased his celebrity, and every one is
uixious to bear him. The subject of his lecture will be, "Our
Cirls."
f"K Ladies' Heading Room is reported to be in prosperous condition.
Resides the previously good variety of papers and magazines,
.hmr-Orlea- we notice new friends, Chicago Weekly Trihune, Boston ns
l';,-hin- i and Popular Science Mmilhhj.
- -
103
At a recent meeting of the Klioian society the Dress Jli-fnr- ui
question was discusse.l. For once difference of opinion was not
necessary to an animated discussion. Unusual interest was shown
but opinions and convictions seemed to be almost entirely on one
side for the reform, or rather for reform. The confession of most,
of the ladies, if expressed, would be like Portia's, "I can easi-- r
teach tw enty what were good to he done, than to be one of the
twenty to follow mine own teaching."
Wiiii.k discussing climate and character lately, a Junior excited-
ly exclaimed, "Well, now, if a man should go to Italy and be born
there, would he be a better musician?" He evidently must have
heen listening to some siren songster of the Conservatory, and desires
to cultivate his own acoustic abilities. For information we
refer the anxious member of '7(5 to the article in our last issue, on
'"Cliinate and Character," also to the pages of Buckle and Cuizo'jJ
Bi:v. Mi:. Brand, pastor of the First Church, left town on Tue --
day, Sept. 2!, to attend the National Council, at Xew Haven, Conr,
He was absent last Sabbath. The students, who form a large
part of Mr. Bs congregation, have found in him a warm-hearte- d,
earnest friend. They regret his absence for even one Sabbath.
Skxiok to Classmate, anxiously; "Another failure to report next
week, out after ten." "That's nothing new," from the other.
"What now ?" "The Deacon was out in the orchard, too, last night.
He asked me why I came so late to buy apples. He didn't give me
live minutes of grace." The Senior made his report privately.
After perusing the local of our last issue, one of the Fourth
Years was heard to exclaim : " How Is this ! Do hens have teeth ?
I didn't suppose they did." We would recommend to the Four h
Year and that liberal proportioned Senior, a review of their z(-olo-
with a passing notice of the chapter on ornithology.
Pi;. MoiKi.vx tells the Junior Theologues that be likes them veiy
well in the main, but has one fault to find with, them ; they v a it
to know everything at once; they put up their little bottles, with
necks necessarily rather small at present, and ask him to pour in
the whole ocean at once.
Ckhtain Seniors and Fourth Years, not satisfied with the lessons
assigned them in V trier, are reading and discussing Locke's Essay
on the Huiium UixlerstaiHlhiti. After Locke, who?
Ir is to be rereted that the paint bucket did not fail before the
roof of Council Hall was reache I. Is that a chronic sunset on the
western side?
Pioh.k about town are anxiously inquiring what caused the
( 'Impel bell to ring about two o'clock one morning last week. Will
the bell-ring- er please explain?
Tin: members of '78 seem to appreciate the benefits to be derived
from society discipline. (Juite a number have already joined the
different societies and others are coming in from week to week.
C.u.(Tri:TiNi theologues are dimly conscious of a slight loss of
prestige, but charitably attributed it more to the wind than to the
College Seniors.
Tn 1:111: are thirty-fiv- e theologues in attendance at the Seminary
Ibis term, about thirty of whom are located at Council Hall.
Ir is reported that there is another happy man in tow n. ITe
rides a velocipede.
Look orr for the coming Catalogue.
MARRIED.
m
WtiHiUT 15KD0KTH.V. On Wi'iliii'H.lay, Si'pt. 25, 1871. at the First I'lvsliytorian
( lunch of Saratoga Strings, . Y.. by tho livv. Dr. v o ulliriiluy, of Now Brunswick,
N. .1 . assisti'il'liv Hiv. Win. Newman, Albert A. Wright, I'r.ifi'ssnr of
ceS-ien-
Natural in
N. r.ciloriha. of Saraioga Sirin;;s.
gy,
Oherlin College, ami .Miss Mary h. 15.' lorllia, laugh..'r f Dr.
''

104 Oberlin College Review.
PERSONALS. bee slionlil so soon receive such an appointment is not merely a
compliment to him ; 1ml, as a manifestation of candor in the wil- -
Pkks. Faiiiciiild left town last week to attend the Council at linguess to acknowledge merit in a person educated elsewhere, the
2$ew Haven. appointment reflects honor on the fair name of Yale.
'49 Mills . Kev. Henry Mills was in town a few days since.' 7r Bosr. McCi.f.li.axi). F. A. Hose and 'J'. McClelland are
After several weeks travel in the Fast tarrying at New Haven for jnt recovering from severe attacks of fever.
attendance upon the National Congregational Council-- he returns WEy.;,;. Eugene Frayer, now of '7', Cornell, has heen
to his pastorate at Canton, 111.
yUv, V(1.y mv j, lvi,i10j() jvver j,t his home at Carson, (). Iu- -
'57 Biiooks. Hies. W. M. Brooks, of Tahor College (la), paid quiring friends will he pleased to learn that he has so far recovered
Oberlin friends a short visit, on his way to New Haven, last week, as to he aide to sit up a portion of each day.
'G7 Theo. '70 Wiuoiit. His friends will all learn with sorrow '7.') Wi:i;ht. Miss Alice Wright returned home last week, her
that continued ill health has at last constrained Hew C. F. Wright health not being such as to warrant further study at present.
to resign his pastorate at Norwalk. He goes to the church at :,;.,., ,,.,..., is Marv Fraver was suddenlv called awav a
l-Xirhau-lt, Minn.,
hoping to rind health in that climate.-- m Vol- -
timp un ,imjuit i hMi
in death. Her classmates and numerous friends in this place
'US Bruit. A. W. Burr is at Andover, where he expects to take sympathize deeply with her in this great alllietion. She intends
the last year in theology. He is also studying Oerman. to return in the Spring to resume study with her class.
'GO Aimorr.-M- rs. Abbott, formerly Miss Electa Woolley, of '7J llrxTixwox. Miss Metelill Huntington who has been
College class 'GO, is teaching at Nokomis, 111. resting from study for the past few months, on recount of ill health,
'72 Bkowxk . A. L. Browne, having returned from a year's has '"eturned with renewed vigor to take up once more the duties
work in the South, is now teaching at Sheridan, Kendall Co., 111.
o1' student life.
7,5 'S''i:yi:xsox. .1. 0. Stevenson, for the past two Summers
'72 Wakxf.i:. O. S. Warner is still the proprietor and manager
of the Akron (0.) Business College. connected with this College, is now studying with the Senior
Daniels,' Tll,'olil'al . He is also taking several
'72-Daxikls.-T.
F. who for the past two years has
heen connected with the First National Bank of this place, has
lately been elected Treasurer of the First Church.
'72-Gi:axx.s.-G.
H. (Jrannis leads the choir of a prominent
l i , tr
Ontario,
church in New Haven, Conn.
1- -
73rko.-ELLis.-- Kev. J. F. Ellis has resigned his char-- e in
tl,C S,'ie,,ti,i,, d,0K
"(i Tollifff.. 0. .1. .loll ill e is pursuing his studies for the
" (,m,,,,",,on w,!h :,t home in Cobourg,
T8-C- as'-k- 11 ' L'tle has ,HH'" MFll to give up his
l'wurfte 0,1 :Ur0,mt r 1MK,r h"dth. " sailed firm New York on
Toledo. Whither he deoarts "with ,l. vn,.w ..i.im m
'
mother" is not known at present.
'"th uU' Ior ,lis ,,0I,U at Honolulu, Sandwich Islands. In hi
departure the class loses an estimable student and the College one
r, r
.
.J-Ck- yfu.-S. S. Cryer is at Princeton. of llPr falUlflll workci.s
. '.iomak --Mi.,S J. A. Sherman, Collegeclass '73, teaching Cornelius B. Bradley, 0. C. ';, Theo. Sem. '71, is spending
in the public schools at Cedar Kapids, la. mm tIlll0 in t0W1 Mr u w vvmn W(M)t ;is
'73 Amf.xt. W. S. Anient is studying in Union Theological '"'iwary to Siam, but was oblige! to return on account of his
Seminary, New York City. health. His health seems much improved by his trip west.
'73 Bkyaxt. S. J. Bryant, of Yale, is putting to immediate
use his theologic attainments, as appears from reports of the large Exchanges.
Bible class tliat he instruct in one of the city churches.
I-a-
'74-Axi)-
Ki,sox.
ck
Matthew Anderson,
of
after staying
time
"two days" .
ZonX
prevents any extended review of our ex
at the Theological Seminary at Alleghany, Fa., went to FrinceUm. MraWe '
'74-MALT-
Y.-Miss M. J. Maltby is teaching in the Cnion .
T1 v n
School, at Van Wert, 0., of which M. Woodford '7 is 1,n,R11Ml- minch.il -
i , Loin(n1 ,n llu' ,:lst two numbers which we liavc
' ' received, has taken a noble stand against that most des- -
a-KEXX- KDY.-Missr AI. ,r Mary Kennedy is teaching at Benzonia, liable custom, college rushing of which Vale lias just had
Michigan. her annual experience. In a well written article upon "Pub- -
'74-MAmH-
AM.-Will K. H. Markham number' fT R(Lvism " Wd in
keep us posted of his he 111 " rf ofptcmher 26, ,t
whereabout? we mistake , not, are ex-
, -
piessed the sentiments of "(," Gf '74, 0. C.
IT7grt
'74-HAYX-
F.s.-The Ouide to the Northern Ohio Fair tins year -- The
lHnV 7 L' (-
n th-h- - In iUn v r. tu , , , - w ;
- U & upt thcU mven o
Advertising Agents, Cleveland, it presented a good idea of the the best tiling we have lately read. wouhl advle tl c
articles on exhibition and, as to the variety of advertisements ami C(1'tors of those papers whicb'indu!-- e so freelv in the dilVer- -
the execution of the whole, was most creditable. cnt kimU of criticism mentioned to oive it a careful reading.
'74-MAnsnA- LL.-Bcnj. Marshall
Becker Co., Minn.
is visiting relatives at Audubon, A Freshman was overheard, by another Anient "ivin" a
'74-LF- .E.-F. T. Lee represents the Divinitv School on tb,
-
Rlowin account of her own accomplishments and'e" cellen- -
c,es to ?n humble amJ '"ri"K audicn '
-
F
r
i
e
-
n
d
,
" said
the