THE PALMER HOUSE

For some time now the late Professor Palmer's house has stood bleakly vacant in the Yard, while the Corporation has evidently been unable to decide its fate. Answers to the question so far offered include renting it to some professor, reconstruction into classrooms, and demolition. Another answer is that within its ancient yellow walls may very possibly lie the long expected solution to the well known commuter problem.

Until last year the position of the average commuter was rather unfortunate. Compelled usually to remain around Harvard during most of the day for classes, special library study, or athletics, he found himself with no common, congenial place to meet his fellow commuters and eat with them, to study and read, or even simply to relax. Phillips Brooks House made a commendable effort to meet these needs, but its facilities are naturally limited, and what arrangements have been made are admittedly only temporary. The Student Council's suggestion for spreading the outside men among the Houses is beset with all manner of difficulties and seems almost incapable of satisfactory execution.

Combining dining hall, common room, and small library in the Palmer house would be far simpler than the Student Council's plan and probably much more pleasant to all concerned. As for the expense, all those intending to make use of the building should be asked to contribute to the small fund necessary for its upkeep. It is doubtful that there would be much difficulty in collecting a sufficient sum. Even though a small original outlay might be called for from the University, the importance of the problem and the definite advantages of the plan more than warrant some sacrifice.