The Universities
Oxford
THE University began the term actively with legislation, granting a licence to a new private hall to be called St. Peter's. Opposition was forthcoming, because the new hall is of definitely theological cast, and there was fear of religious tests. But the University is afraid of seeming unwelcome to benefactors, and Convocation approved the project by a large majority. It means that a fine site in New Inn Hall Street is saved from shops, and that some men who cannot face the increased expense of the Colleges will be able to . come to the University. Other legislation is in sight, especially with the vexed questions of the Bodleian Library and the Taylorian Institute. The evil feelings evoked by the prolonged dispute over the Bodleian are said to be abating, but there. is no sign yet of any plan being unanimously accepted. There is clearly a great cry for more room for books, but there are strong geographical and sentimental objections to building a new library elsewhere, even if the money is forth- coming. Still, if the Hebdomadal Council is not more Constructive in its proposals, the idea of a new library will probably gain ground, especially as the example of Cambridge
shows that really generous benefactors ,exist and that, where there is a definite scheme, money can be found to support it. The Taylorian is said to be on the _look out for new premises, but its movements are still secret. If it changes its dwelling, the Ashmolean Museum will have plenty of excellent rooms for the exhibition of its now rather congested possessions.
While these schemes are in the air, Colleges are busy- at work with building and improvements. Peckwater Quad- rangle is almost entirely refaced and is once 'more one of the architectural glories of Oxford. -Magdalen have started on new buildings designed by Sir Giles Scott, and the new Rhodes House is almost finished. Whatever doubts some may have had while it was being built, there is no doubt that Sir Herbert Baker's design has proved great success, and that he has given us one of the best buildings erected in Oxford for a long time. - It is to be formally opened in the summer, and there will be a great gathering of old Rhodes scholars for the occasion.
There are few impending changes in professorships and headships of Colleges. The most interesting is that in the Professorship of English Literature, vacated by the new President of Magdalen.. The chair has high traditions, and the electors will be faced by a distinguished lot of candidates.
Undergraduate life goes on without untoward incidents. The agitation started by Merton last term to reduce the use of motors has resulted in a proctorial rule that no motor may be out after 11 p.m. The wisdom of this is not widely accepted, and there are_those who.feel that it is an unwelcome step towards making Oxford like Sandhurst, where motors are not allowed at all. Of societies and meetings there is still no end. One of the most energetic is the English Society, which presents distinguished figures before crowded audiences. Its programme of this term includes Mr. Anthony Asquith, Mr. Humbert Wolfe and Mr. Middleton Murry. A new and promising club is the Poetry Society, which aims more at creation than at propaganda and sets out to discover and encourage young talent. - Everyone wishes it good luck, for in such activities the real life of the University consists. C. M. BOWRA.
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