4 DECEMBER 1926, Page 41

The New Competition

• The Editor offers a prize of £5 for an Essay in Prose or Verse on " The Character of an Ideal Friend."

- What are the essentials to be looked for in a true friend P If you were lucky enough to possess a friend who was all that he should be (not necessarily perfect as a human being, but complete in everything that concerns friendship), how de you conceive his character ? How much intelligence does friendship need ; how much frankness ; how much goodness of heart ? The editor leaves competitors very free in their mode of dealing with the problem. They may discuss it abitractly, if they choose ; or they may draw a picture of they ideal friend.