CONCERNING THE DAY

So much has been said about the significance of the intercollegiate athletic field as a factor in social understanding that it is not to be wondered if a justly tired public long ago became dubious and raised its hand in protest. Considerable exaggeration undoubtedly in many instances gives rise to a far too optimistic view towards meetings which are often more objective spectacles breeding little mutual understanding. In an atmosphere tuned up to the scale of fifty thousand spectators it becomes increasingly more convincing for the sceptic to smile away the mention of a genuine relationship between the two participating student bodies.

There is, however, something peculiar to the appearance of the Cadet regiment in Cambridge which in this instance adds weight to the persistent words of those who welcome as inter-collegiate athletic contest as a sound social agent. In the very solidarity of the Army ranks is a situation which makes it impossible for Harvard men to be unaware of the nature of these guests from the Hudson. They stand out clear in the view of their hosts, set aside from the motley crowds which throng the stadium. And this picture of the Corps is sure to create an impression on all those who see it today. A real, vivid impression, not one which will be swallowed up in a thousand others, but which will survive for longer than a weekend of sport and gaiety.

Civilians may learn from this glimpse of the Army's future officers. When a tendency on the part of the public towards the extremes of toying with the white flag of pacifism or rattling the saber seems so attractive it is well to realize the essential similarity of all undergraduates in or out of uniform. A little careful observation reveals interesting facts and the playing field this afternoon should give ample proof that the men of West Point offer no inherent threat of jingo militarism against the world.

With the memory of the Army's last visit to Cambridge still fresh the University turns this morning with keen anticipation to the second coming of the Corps within as many years. The meeting with the Academy a year ago marked the resumption of athletic relations on the football field after a lapse of thirty-three seasons. This renewing of a contact which in the past has been characterized by its cordial sportsmanship and which in the present gives so much satisfaction, stands forth in the undergraduate mind as probably one of the most agreeable results of the recently inaugurated rotating-schedule policy of the Athletic Association.