Politics at English Universities.

Great enthusiasm over political matters exists among the students of the great English Universities, and it is interesting to see what effect the present close election in England has upon the English undergraduates. The English Universities have always been strongholds of conservatism, and although it seems strange to the democratic American that a body of educated men should so place themselves in opposition to the liberal spirit of progress, it must be remembered that a large number of students belong to the aristocratic families.

Both Oxford and Cambridge have two or three representatives each in the House of Commons, and party spirit runs high in the universities. According to the Oxford Review, which speaks mainly on the subject, the two members of the university will surely be Conservative. Nevertheless, a rather amusing fight is going on. The various debating societies are now offering resolutions in support of Lord Salisbury's ministry, and the undergraduate politicians are exercising their oratorical powers in mimic Parliamentary contests. One man, who signs himself "Conservative," writes in the Review a vigorous appeal to all holders of sound political opinions to try to influence by direct arguments the wayward followers of the Liberal ministry. He urges the "extreme importance of doing everything in their power to further the good cause."

The following extract from the Oxford Review illustrates in a rather amusing manner the election spirit, and also shows the enviable position which the Oxford M. P.'s hold;

"There does not appear to be any likelihood of a contest for the two seats which, despite the parricidal attempt of Professor Bryce, are still allotted to the University of Oxford. The position of Sir J. Mowbray and Mr. Talbot is the most enviable that can be imagined. Not to be dictated to by a Caucus or Association, not to be compelled to make election speeches, or submit to unlimited 'heckling,' not to have to canvass the illiterate voter or the impracticable crotcheteer, not to have to open charitable bazaars, or preside at philanthropic meetings; in short to possess a seat in the Lower House without having to undergo any of the penalties attaching to it, is almost beyond the hope of ordinary mortals. Yet, such is their case and, despite Radical grumbling, we believe it will long remain so. An absurdly futile attempt was made, somewhile ago, to ascertain whether a moderate Liberal candidate could be run at the General Election with any chance of success, but we believe that the result showed that any such attempt would be attended with nothing but a considerable loss of money, and inextinguishable laughter from the winning side."