VOL. II
STATE TEACHERS COLLEGE, FRAMINGHAM, MASS., DECEMBER 23, 1032 *
itterrp Orisftmasi
No. 4
Nativity Pageant
Begins Christmas Week
English 6 and Choir
Unite for Production
On December 19, during the assembly period, the Nativity Pageant was presented by the senior drama class. The characters in the pageant were:
Angel of Peace............Betty Pipe
Angel of the Star.....Agnes Hornby
Angel.................Florence Benson
Mary..................Mary Partridge
Joseph................Helen Crockett
Three Shepherds.......Josephine Lynes,
Rosamond Henry, Rita Simons Three Wise Men........Miriam Sweet,
Marie Blaikie, Dorothy Cartwright
The story of the pageant was read by the Angel of Peace. The Angel Chorus was made up of the members of the Choir.
The committees in charge were: Director, Betty Pipe.
Assistant Director, Agnes Hornby.
Costumes, Rita Simons.
Lights, Dorothy Cartwright. Properties, Josephine Lynes. Stage, Helen Crockett.
Seniors Sing
Christmas Carols
As in former years, the senior class sang Christmas carols on the last night before the holidays. The girls started out at 8:30, first singing to the students, and then proceeding down the hill, visiting members of the faculty and friends who live in this vicinity. A brass quartet composed of Marjorie Brier '33 and Isabel Lynch '35, trumpets; Dorothy Seisig '34, and Virginia Boucher '34, saxophones, accom|»anied during the singing of the following songs: Silent Night; It Came Upon the Midnight Clear; Hark, the Herald Angels Sing; Joy to the World; Good King Wenceslas; Oh, Come, All » Faithful; God Rest You, Merry Gentlemen; Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem; The First Nowell; We Three Kings of Orient Are.
A buffet lunch was served to the carolers at Crocker Hall upon their return.
At 5 :30 Friday morning the seniors sing
ing carols made the traditional tour of the dormitories.
Glee Club Presents
Christmas Service
The Glee Club, under the direction of Mr. Archibald, presented its annual Christmas candlelight service in the assembly hall Wednesday evening, December 21.
The service was opened by the singing of the Largo. Other selections composing the concert were the Hallelujah Chorus; Carol of the Russian Children; Bethlehem; Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light; Shepherds Christmas Song; The Song of the Angels; While Shepherds Watched Their Sheep; God Rest You, Merry Gentlemen; Here A Torch, Jeannette, Isabella; Sing IVe Noel; O Come, All Ye Faithful; The First Nowell; Silent Night; What A Wonder; Ring Out, Wild Bells; Six Old Dutch Carols; Slumber Song of the Infant Jesus; Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming; While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night.
At the close of the service the girls marched out to the playing of Nazareth by Gounod.
A’Kempis Club Has Communion Breakfast
The members of the Thomas A’Kempis Club attended 8 o’clock mass at Saint Bridget's church on Sunday morning, December 11. Afterwards, a communion breakfast was served at the Old Framingham Inn.
President and Mrs. Bagnall and Father Dunford were guests of the club at the breakfast. The faculty advisers, Miss Joyce and Miss Long, also attended.
The president, Claire Keating, gave a toast to Father Dunford; Mary Anderson to Miss Joyce and Miss Long; Dorothy O’Day to President and Mrs. Bagnall; and Mary Leonard to Claire Keating.
Father Dunford spoke briefly on the meaning of the word “Amen.”
A second communion breakfast will be held in May.
Keeping Christmas
“Are you willing to stoop down and consider the needs and desires of little children?
To remember the weakness, the loneliness of people who are growing old;
To stop asking how much your friends love you and ask yourself whether you love them enough;
To bear in mind the things that other people have to bear in their hearts;
To try to understand what those who live in the same house with you really want, without waiting for them to tell you;
To trim your lamp so that it will give more light and less smoke, and to carry it in front so that your shadow will fall behind you;
To make a grave for your ugly thoughts— and a garden for your kindly feelings with the gate open—
Arc you willing to do these things, even for a day?
Then you can keep Christmas.
Are you willing to believe that love is the strongest thing in the world—stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than death—and that the blessed life tlat began in Bethlehem nineteen hundred years ago is the image and brightness of the Eternal Love?
Then you can keep Christmas.
And if you can keep it for a day, why not always?”
Henry Van Dyke.
Contributed by the Y. W. C. A.
Alton Hall
Blackiiigton Gives
Illustrated Lecture
Alton Hall Blackington, a former photographer for the Boston Herald, gave an informal illustrated lecture on The Romance of News Gathering at the assembly on November 28. With the aid of both spectacular and picturesque illustrations that he himself has gathered, he succeeded in convincing his audience that there are just as many things to marvel at here in New England as in Europe. The difficulties, perils, and joys of a newspaper photographer were ciparly brought to the attention of the audience.
Some of his topics included pictures of the following: a shipwreck at Plymouth, strawberries at Falmouth, Provincetown artists and players, etchings of dogs by Morgan Dennis, Lynn, Marblehead, Gloucester, West Point Cadets, a fire at Rockland, Maine, Vermont flood, the Coolidges, Dorothy Canfield Fisher, a faked photograph of a log drive, and two unique and astonishing dog portraits. He concluded his talk by showing a few of the pictures to be used in his new illustrated lecture about the Middle West.
It’s You
“You say the world looks gloomy, The skies? are grim and gray, The night has lost its quiet— You fear the coming day. The world is what you make it; The sky is gray or blue;
Just as your soul you paint it; It isn’t the world, it's you.” Anonymous.
Dial Formal to
Feature Winter Scene
New Staff To Be Announced In
January Issue
The last issue of the Gale Post under the administration of the present staff will be published on January 31. At that time a complete list of the succeeding members will be announced. Many changes will be made in the present staff and new names will appear.
Several girls from both the Household Arts and Elementary Departments are at present under consideration for positions as editor and assistant editor. The final selection of the two executives will depend upon a vote of the staff. All seniors, with the exception of one who will remain as reporter for the class, will finish their terms of office with the January issue.
Y.W.C.A. Bazaar
Attracts Many
The annual Christmas bazaar, sponsored by the Y. W. C. A., was held on Thursday, December 1. in the assembly hall from 3:00 until 8:30. Many took advantage of this opportunity to do their Christmas shopping.
Helmi Holmlund '33 was in charge of the food table, where candy, cake, and punch were sold. Louise Bullard '33 was in charge of plants: Betty Oliver ‘36, Japanese ware: Betty Beckwith '33, jewelry: Anna Smith ’33, brassware: Alice Marshall '34, candles: Catherine Cochrane '34, stuffed animals: Hazel Ramsey '33, handkerchiefs: Ann Jenkins '34, animal show: and Ruth Parker '33 and Adelaide Harrison, leather goods. Marion Crittendon '33 and Alice Campbell told fortunes, and Virginia Rhoades '34, playing the part of a very jovial Santa Claus, looked after the grab bag.
The stuffed pets of Florence Courtis '35 won both first and second prizes in the animal show. Dr. and Mrs. Meier and Miss Poole were judges.
A trio composed of Helen Boyd '35, piano: Ruth Lovelace '36, violin: and Hermaline Gage '36, cello played during the afternoon.
One of the attractions of the evening was the presentation of the second act of the Bird's Christmas Carol, by the senior drama class. Rita Simons acted as director. Those in the cast were .Josephine Lynes, Mary Partridge, Miriam Sweet, Helen Crockett, Agnes Hornby, Marie Blaikie, Betty Pipe, Dorothy Cartwright, Florence Benson, and Rita Simons.
Sub-Council
Members Chosen
The sophomore class met in rodin 41 on December 5 during the assembly jteriod and elected the following representatives to the chemistry sub-council.
Betty Whitney, division A: Leona Mier-zyenska, division B : Marjorie Studley, division C: Vera Bisbee, division D: Aura Louhi, vocational.
Tiie annual Dial Dance, which is open to the entire student body, will be held Friday, January 13. from o :00 until 1:00. Tickets will be S2.25. The proceeds will be used to help finance the Dial.
President and Mrs. Bagnall, Mr. and Mrs. Ried, Alice Campbell '33, editor-in-chief of the Dial, and her escort, William Ayer, will be in the receiving line.
The decorations will be in the form of a winter scene with corresponding silhouettes. Refreshments of fancy ices and cookies will be served during intermission. The orchestra has not been chosen.
Alice Campbell, general chairman of the dance, is assisted by the following girls: Geraldine Winchenbaugh '33, patrons and patronesses: Edna Purcell '33, decorations: Pauline Orsi '33, refreshments: Dorothy Gilmore '33, programs and tickets: Elizabeth Gardner '33, flowers; Faith Sincer-beau '33, ushers; Elizabeth Smith '33, as-si tants: and Jessica Eldridge '33, floor.
Dr. Chase to
Return Soon
Dr. Eleanor F. Chase, instructor in general chemistry, who has been ill for several weeks, is recovering rapidly and anxious to return to her classes, it was announced, recently. Dr. Chase will probably return after the Christmas holidays.
Miss Margaret Moran '32, has been here as substitute. Miss Moran was the president of the Chemistry Council last year when she was a senior at the college.
Freshman Class
Is Organized
Thelma Gray was elected president of the freshman class after two days of voting’ held in the students’ room December 13 and 14. Isabel Lynch, who came second highest, is vice-president. The other officers arc Marjorie Whittier, treasurer, and Doris Maynard, secretary.
Names of candidates were submitted by a committee nominated in a preliminary meeting with Mary Partridge '33, head of the Student Government Association, presiding. Girls working on,the committee for officers were:
Household Arts Department — Virginia Anderson, Ruth Lovelace.
Elementary Department—Lorraine Larson, Hazel Crowdis.
Vocational Department—Elizabeth Oliver.
This method of voting is being tried out this year after the dissatisfaction displayed with other systems of electing officers.
The Musical Clubs
THE GATE POST
Published every month during the school year by the State Teachers College, Framingham, Massachusetts.
STAFF FOR 1932
LITERARY LINES
Editor
Marie Blaikie ’33
Assistant Editor
Beulah Schafer ’33
Board of Editors
Literary...........Alice	Murfhy ’34 News....................Dorothy	Foster ’34
Sports..........Lettice	Mitchell ’33 Alumnae..................Muriel	Kodis ’34
Social.................Mary	Secor ’33 Faculty..............Marion Slayton '34
Commuters’ Comments	Humor............Elizabeth	Smith ’33
Anna McGinnis '34 Dormitory Doings
Kathryn Gavin ’33
News Editor in charge o/ Reporters
Dorothy Foster ’34
Reporters
Geraldine Winchenhaugh ’33	Dorothy Murphy ’35
Frances Ramsdell '34
Staff Artists
Elizabeth Gardner ’33	Anne Jenkins ’34
Business Staff
Manager—Mildred Smith '33
Assistants
Helen Russo '33	Ruth Patten '34	Anna Billa ’34
Eacully Adviser
Miss Louise Kingman
Literary Advisers
Miss Maude B. Gerritson and Miss Marjorie Sparrow
DECEMBER 23, 1932
Printed by The Lakeview Press, Framingham, Mass.
EDITORIAL
The Gate Post is reprinting, this month, two articles, one an editorial from the Albany State Teachers College News, the other an article from The American Observer of December 7. We feel that this policy will introduce new thoughts and stimulate a more cosmopolitan viewpoint.
THE COLLEGE MIND
It is our impression that it would be very embarrassing to many of the college students to be asked an opinion concerning a world, national, or even local problem. And even though the student may express an opinion, it is often more embarrassing to engage in an argument witn someone who is well informed when the knowledge of the facts is not in his possession. We have newspapers, magazines, radio, and the movies; yet a surprisingly large number of college students are absolutely ignorant about the affairs outside of their particular “little worlds.”
So many of these students feel that the knowledge they are gaining in the classroom is sufficient; there is the reason why the young people of today are so disinterested in what is going on in the world. A teacher without an understanding of world affairs cannot inspire the pupils to greater interest in those happenings. We go in a cycle; the school sends students to the teachers’ college with little knowledge and yet smaller interest in the world and national affairs; the teachers’ college sends these students back to the elementary schools to teach other pupils, and yet without an interest or knowledge of the subjects under discussion. It is a deadly cycle, numbing the life of the college student.
Thus, in order to send to the teaching profession better informed graduates, it is up to the students themselves to become better informed. It is through such study that the student is apt to be keener in his judgment and fairer in his opinions than the majority of the students. There are several magazines and newspapers which give unbiased opinions of the news of the day. A few minutes a day spent in reading these will keep a student well informed. A broader and more interesting world would result.
• Reprinted from the State College Neivs, Albany, N. Y.
❖ * * *
THE ART OF CIVILIZED LIVING
There has never been a time in the history of the world when human beings lived successful lives in isolation. Man is a social animal, and has always found some degree of cooperation a necessity. But civilized forms of living call for ever closer association of individuals. As we go about our daily work we are shoulder to shoulder with our fellows. We work with them, we eat with them. We are dependent upon others to help us in our recreation and our amusements. We get along only by means of economic associations with many men and women, some of them seen and others unseen. Life, under modern conditions, is an almost unbroken series of cooperative enterprises. When the association is close, there are many occasions for irritation. When one depends for so many of his satisfactions upon the conduct of other persons it must inevitably happen that he will often be thwarted, that there will be conflicts of interest. There will also be clashes of personality, wholly unconnected with the interests of any of the parties. People thrown together, forced to work and play and talk together, will at times get on each other’s nerves. If one is to get along in such a society, he must suppress his egotism on many occasions. He must push his own feelings and wishes into the background. Unless one is strong in character and well poised in mind, he will feel the strain of this forced cooperation; which is another way of saying that he will feel the strain of civilized living. Only those who are finely fitted in intellect and character can meet handsomely the requirements of the civilized life. To associate with others day in and day out without showing irritation, to live calmly, generously and good humoredly, taking disappointments lightly and contributing to the pleasantness of the associated life— to do all this is to achieve a distinguished manner of living. Such an achievement is a mark of power, a condition of success, a guaranty of happiness.
Reprinted from The American Observer.
The Christmas Lights
Oh! lights of Christmas shining out From windows wreathed in green, What message do you spread afar, What do your colors mean?
Is red the symbol of new strength, And green of hope and trust?
Docs the deep blue of the night Reflect repentance of the just?
And does the candle’s flame of love Shine with a golden good
Across the newly whitened street Where carolers have stood?
Oh, no, you say, the times are hard, My colors fade with blight.
Then may I ask one little thing, Why do you shine tonight?
E. H. G.
Prize Story
The Christmas Candle
It was dark outside, but within the room it was mellow and warm. Jessie stood at the window and stared, unseeingly, up the snow-piled street to the high, stone church whose lighted windows threw glowing colors onto the pavement below. A sad smile pulled at her lips and her eyes were wistful. Jessie was old and Jessie was alone.
With a little shake she drew away from the window and went to her high, deep chair by the table. The crisp warm aroma of scalloped oysters and oyster stew lingered in the room. Jessie smiled in wry amusement as she thought of the traditional Christmas Eve supper she had pre-pared. Scalloped oysters she had never liked, and stew had never attracted her particularly, yet she had prepared them both, remembering those days when she was a girl when to have varied the Christmas Eve supper would have been a sacrilege. Even then, her father had been the only one who liked scalloped oysters. Queer that she should remember this about him when he had been dead over fifty years.
The Christmas candle, too, had been a reminder of former days. It stood now on the window sill in its skirt of holly and ribbon, waiting to be lighted. At home the candle had stood alone on the kitchen table for which, each Christmas, a new red and white tablecloth had been bought. She remembered her father as he leaned forward, smiling slightly, to light the candle, and the awe which this bit of Christmas ceremony had produced. Each time she had wished that the Christ-child would see it and be safely guided. The candle had winked and sputtered on the kitchen table until the children were safely in bed. She glanced at her own table, but an electric lamp was in the center; so she left the candle on the sill in the shadows.
Rousing herself, she found a match and lighted the candle. Returning to her chair she fell once more into reverie; the glowing candle caused her to drowse. With an effort she sal up ami rubbed her eyes into wakefulness. She musn’t sleep or she would miss mass in the high, stone church down the street where at midnight the solemn service would begin, and the sweet, clear voices of the boys’ choir would blend with the soft singing of the violins.
The room was warm and she half dreamed as she sat there. A lethargy stole over her; she must rouse and go to the church, but weariness begged a few minutes respite.
She opened her eyes and looked at the candle. Its radiance seemed to brighten and diffuse—and then it disappeared and m its place stood a little boy. He came toward her hesitantly, with an ingratiating little grin on his mouth. His brown eyes looked at her hoiwfully as he came nearer.
She leaned forward with a smile and stretched out her hands to him. He bounded forward and grasped them, clambered onto her lap and snuggled against her shoulder.
The spinster arms enfolded him and her spinster heart was happy. His eyes weren't blue and his hair was neither golden nor
curly. This didn’t surprise her. The brown eyes and shaggy dark head were like the little brother's she had loved and mothered so long ago.
The chimes from the church rang out in impatience for the latecomers. She knew the aisles were already thronged—the can-. dies glowing, the incense burning. She must awaken and go to the church. She dreaded to o)xm her eyes for the warm child in her arms would be gone and the empty room would be as before. But o|xm them she rntist and open them she did. He stirred sleepily and burrowed down within her arms. She didn't close her eyes again, but feasted on his sleeping babyhood. She supposed he should be in swaddling clothes, but the soft, white flannel pajamas were much warmer.
He stirred again and opened his eyes. Fearfully she tightened her hold on him. However, he slipped down from her lap and stood before her, leaning lightly against her knees. She knew she could hold him no longer and her smile was wistful.
He seized her hand impatiently and tried to pull her away with him. She closed her eyes wearily;, she couldn’t go with him for she was old and too tired.
But the room receded, and as the darkness of the winter night enfolded her, a warmth seeped through the cold, old body. The child led her on and on, past the church and past the singing, and the radiance of the stars came out to meet them and the portals of Heaven opened to receive them home.
Margaret A. Coulter '33.
Honorable Mention
If the Christ Child Should Come
I was right in the middle of frantic, last minute Christmas shopping when I ran into Mike Wilson — tall, lanky, bronzed newspaper reporter — and proud of it. As it was almost noon and I already was as hungry as only a college girl can be, I accepted his invitation to lunch.
During a pause in the conversation, I said, "Mike, I went to a Christmas service the other evening. The Rector was talking about the first Christmas. He said that probably the first to recognize the signs of the Christ-Child's birth were the Wise Men. The thought came to me that if the Christ-Child should come today, it would he to a newspaper man that the sign would appear.”
“To a reporter?” Mike asked, musingly.
“Yes,” I said triumphantly, "they are the wisest guys on earth at present.”
The flashing reply that I had expected did not come, and I looked at Mike curiously.
“Do you remember when Lieutenant Bobby Nelson was married?” he asked. I shook my head. 1 knew Lieutenant Bobby, of course. Everyone did. Even the roughest newsboy on the Boston streets could tell all about the curly-headed idol of America, although it had been several years since he first came into prominence.
"He married a California girl, didn’t he?'' I asked.
"Lieutenant Bobby,” began Mike in a tone which ex|>erience had taught me meant a story, "had been riding the wave of popularity about a year when he suddenly disappeared. Editors went frantic. A month later, he reappeared with the girl who was his wife. The report started that she came from the Golden State, but no one ever knew anything definite about her. But because she was true blue all the way through, and because she was so charming and sweet, the public raised her onto the pedestal too.
"Of course there were some who tried to start some scandal about her, but they were never successful. When their child was born five years ago, Nelson was a household wford.
"Four years ago the day before Christmas, the editor called me into his office and
told me a story—well, it made me feel sick all over. It was about a girl who broke faith with a boy who had later committed suicide. There were other details. It wasn't
a pretty story, but the thing that made me fed funny was that the girl was Faith Nelson. I felt worse than ever when the
editor went on to explain that he didn't dare to print it if it wasn't true, so he wanted me to verify it.
“A reporter's life isn’t all roses, and the 'thorns must be taken with the buds. I knew that the Nelsons were spending i Christmas on Lieutenant Bobby's mother's I farm in New Hampshire., so I got out my old bus and headed north. When I reached the town, I was given rather complicated directions. It had been snowing slightly for quite a while, and then things started in earnest. To make conditions perfect, I lost my way. There had already been quite a snowfall before, and I soon ran into a drift, that, try as I might, I could not get out of.
"I was calling the bus, the weather, and the editor about everything I could think of when 1 saw approaching through the thickening veil of snow a horse and sleigh. With true country inquisitiveness, the driver pulled up and asked me what the matter was. I pointed out the fact that it was useless to try to run a car—especially one stuck in a snowdrift—in that storm. He offered to take me home with him.
"Miracles do happen. The farmer was old Mrs. Nelson’s hired man. When she heard my story, kind old soul that she was, she offered to give me my supper and let me spend the night there. When I had finished eating, she insisted that I join them in the quaint old New Hampshire sitting room.
“In the doorway I paused. Faith Nelson was sitting in a low rocking chair, holding their Child. A tiny hand rested on her cheek, and a tiny arm encircled her neck. In a flash it came to me—what it would mean to the Child if I should tell the story.”
Mike paused to look out of the window at the holiday crowd.
“It was Christmas Eve and I was a stranger in the house. Finally. I asked if I might use the telephone. Luckily the wires were still up and I got a clear line. I’m sure the Great Recorder smiled when I told the Chief there was no story.
Lucia Back '34.
Rachel Field
I wonder if other girls are all as interested in Rachel Field as I am. Last Friday I had the opportunity of seeing Miss Field in Boston, where she was making a personal appearance at Filene’s. Several girls from Framingham were present.
While another girl and I were standing waiting for Miss Field to arrive, a salesgirl remarked that she wondered whether Rachel Field would bring her dog "Spriggem” with her. We informed her that “Spriggem” had died, but I don’t think she believed us, for she called the head salesgirl, who confirmed our statement.
Miss Field was a little late because her train from Connecticut had been delayed. I thought that she would never come, but shortly 1 heard one of the salesgirls say, “Rachel Field is here.” We all looked up with excitement to see a middle-aged woman, wearing a bright green dress, being ushered in. This was really Rachel Field with her lovely red hair.
Miss Field was soon busy autographing books, but one girl from school finally summoned enough courage to present Miss Field with a letter which Miss Carter had sent to her. Then came my turn, and I advanced to make my little speech for Miss Carter. I told Miss Field that we girls were all from Framingham Teachers College, and she seemed quite pleased to see such a large delegation. When I said that Miss Carter was sorry that she could not come because of Open House al school, she told me to be sure to tell Miss Carter that she did not bring her dog with her this time. Miss Field felt sorry that she was not going to appear again on Saturday at Filene’s, but she was leaving in the morning for Portland, Maine.
Miss Field's latest book, Hepatica Hawks, as well as Hitty, was on display. I was
not fortunate enough to have in my possession one of her books, but I really wanted Miss Field's autograph. While on the train, we girls had an idea. Three of us happened to have our ten-cent [xietry books, that Framingham girls have all heard about, with us. Wc debated as to whether we should have enough courage to ask Miss Field to autograph one of her poems in this inexpensive book. But finally, after thinking it over, I took up my book. Because I am particularly interested in her Taxis and Toadstools, I asked her to autograph the poem called Taxis. While signing her name she made a humorous remark, “Ink doesn’t take very well on such cheap paper.” She softened this, however, by telling me that she thought the ten-cent books were really wonderful. Evidently Miss Field thought all these books were green in color, but mine happened to be orange and black, as I told her, for our school colors.
If ever Rachel Field appears again in Boston, I advise everyone who can to see her.
Mary Lundergan '34.
Searcher of Souls
Edwin Arlington Robinson has from early youth had an unusual understanding of human character, its motives, limitations, and frailties. His chief interest is in portraying the hidden thing of the soul. Half by forceful wording and half by implication he paints the soul of a man, always with pity rather than contempt for its weaknesses, always with a half humorous irony for its camouflage, but always with sure understanding.
In Matthias al the Door one finds one of Robinson’s great portrayals of a human soul. Matthias, an industrial king, content to the point of smugness and complete seifsufficiency, does no spiritual thinking, has no growth of soul until sorrow comes to him. One friend has taken his life at the door of a cave near Matthias’ home, another later meets death there. At this same dark door, symbolical of a gateway leading from this life to the next, Matthias’ wife kills herself because she loved another. Now Matthias is alone—without a warmth of love for any human being. His social position and wealth, which have meant so much to him hitherto, mean nothing now. His life is empty. He sees no refuge save 'n death. Shall he kill himself as those others did? He goes to the cave where his wife brought death upon herself—where his only friends met death willingly. There, ready to commit suicide, he sees a vision of what he must do to earn the peace of death. He has done nothing so far in his life that is kind, that has helped others to live. This he must now set out to do. He turns away from the door of death with a new strength of soul—a man reborn to service.
In The Glory of the Nightingales Robinson bares with tragic intensity the soul of a revengeful man. Malory comes to Nightingale’s mansion by the sea with the intent purpose of killing this man, who, he believes, was responsible for his ruined happiness with Agatha, whom both had loved. However, Malory finds that nature has forestalled him. Nightingale's physical strength is gone; he is dying. Malory, his fanatic purpose frustrated, turns away, but Nightingale stays him with some attempt at explanation. For three days Nightingale soliloquizes aloud, revealing his soul, until the fire of Malory’s revenge is slowly cooled. Why kill a man whose life was as barren of happiness as his own? Finally, however, Nightingale kills himself, but not before he has willed his wordly possessions to Malory for alleviating human misery, thereby giving Malory a new zest for life.
Robinson’s famous short poem Richard Cory shows his talent of implying the state of a man’s soul rather than by giving actual facts. By the indirect method of describing his effect on other people, he presents the man Cory as the townspeople know him, a man much admired and not a little envied for his material accomplishments. But the people could not see Cory's soul and Cory’s soul was in a state of black despair, for, “one calm summer night Cory went home and put a bullet through his head.”
Thus, these three poems illustrate Robinson’s power of delving into the hidden regions of a man’s soul with surety, with truth, and with sympathetic understanding.
Alice Murphy, '34.
VOCATIONAL HOUSE
Some children from the Montwait district of Framingham were entertained at a party given for them at the Vocational House on Saturday, December 15.
Vera Vrooman ’34 and Louise Brown "34 were hostesses.
♦ ❖ * *
CROCKER HALL
Abigail Beattie '34 was recently o;>erated on for appendicitis, but is now rapidly recovering. The Gate Post staff wishes to extend its best wishes to her, and express an appreciation of her willing assistance with the circulation of the paper.
In place of the annual Christmas party at Crocker Hall, the girls entertained 30 Framingham children at an afternoon party on Wednesday, December 21.
* * * *
HORACE MANN AND PEIRCE HALLS
Christmas parties were held in both Peirce and Horace Mann Halls on Wednesday evening, December 21. The exchange of joke presents provided fun for everyone. Dr. Meier acted as Santa Claus in Horace Mann.
HAVE YOU Bought Any of the NEW COLLEGE SEALS? Only .05 Each
In a recent sermon Dr. John Rathbone Oliver, physician, priest, and author of the well-known book Fear, gave a thoughtful illustration of two reactions to an emergency situation. Two frogs fell into a pail of cream; one saw no immediate means of escape from disaster, gave up, sank to the bottom and was drowned. The other frog looked about, saw no means of escape, but decided to swim as long as possible; he swam around and around the pail and after awhile, to his surprise, he found that his activity had churned the cream to such an extent that a ball of butter had formed; he climbed upon the butter ball and hopped out of the pail.
Let us not be inhibited by the depression, but rather increase our activities in the educational field and perhaps some new and useful measure will be formulated which we can use as a stepping stone to greater service.
A NEW YEAR'S PARTY!
MAKE YOUR RESOLUTIONS!
Wednesday, January 4, from 5:00 until 5:45
in
Horace Mann living room.
Y. W. C. A.
Class of 1934
ALUMNAE NEWS
NEWS BRIEFS OF THE CLASS OF 1920 Esther Litchfield spent several weeks touring California and Alaska.
Isabelle Lyons is a dietitian at the Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Medford.
Elizabeth Hanson is teaching clothing in Hartford, Connecticut.
Carolyn Stannis was recently elected treasurer of the Springfield Framingham Club.
Mary Loftus is teaching in Revere. She is also assistant to the principal.
Olive Murray Strangeman is principal of the Monroe School in Lexington.
Victoria Rylandcr is teaching in East Rochester, New York.
Mabellc Taft Moore has a young son, Roger Allen.
Edith Bond Blaney '06 of Westford has a son who entered Clark University this fall.
Eileen Hardyman ’30 is studying for her Bachelors Degree at Boston University.
Grace Cronin ’31 is teaching cooking in Boston.
Alice Winsloe ’32 is studying for her masters degree at Teachers College in Boston.
Alice Erickson '31 is teaching home economics and is coach of the hockey team at Stoughton High School.
Marie Trcanor, president of the class of 1930, is engaged to Mr. Frank Corliss, assistant principal in the Norwood school where she taught her first year.
Ruth Barker ’31 is in charge of athletics at Hamilton High School.
Gertrude Montana, Grace Cronin, and Loretta Ford, all of '31, have completed a course in the Vocational Department at the State House.
Evelyn Swanson '31 is teaching home economics at the Concord High School.
Alice Merrill '30 is soon to become Mrs. Benjamin Dorman.
Ruth Ackerman '31 is instructor in home economics at Beverly High School.
Josephine Huntley '30 is engaged to Mr. Merrill Doane.
Genevieve Ford ’30 is teaching tn Newton.
Christine Sheahan '31 is teaching in Waltham.
Ruth Callahan '24 was married to Mr. John Sheahan on Nov. 26.
Sylvia Johnson '31 teaches clothing in Worcester and social science at the Worcester Girls’ Club.
DO YOU KNOW THAT
Ruth Ufford Norris ’30 is the mother of a baby daughter, Nancy Jean?
Alice Rhodes Gilbert '30 has a small son ?
Catherine Rockwood ’32 is substituting at the Watertown High School?
Ruth Hunter '28 is engaged to Mr. John Duffy of Michigan?
Linda Adams Boyden '31 has a daughter, Patricia, five months old?
Minnie Schultz '30 is married to Mr. Milton Hall?
Beatrice Hutchinson Howland ’31 has a son born in November?
Gladys Felton ’32 is now demonstrator for the Wear Ever Aluminum Company in the Framingham district?
Miss Ruth E. Emmons of Lowell gave a tea to announce the engagement of Ruth Gertrude Hunter ’28, of 26 Parkman street, Dorchester, to John Duffy Taylor of Cleveland. Miss Hunter has been teaching in the Peter Bulkeley Schoo), Concord Center. Mr. Taylor is a graduate of the Hillside College, Michigan, and of the Harvard School of Business Administration, class of '32. He is now in the security department of the Guardian Trust Company of Cleveland.
FACULTY NOTES
On the evening of December 8 Dr. Meier, Dr. Foster, Mr. Ried, and Mr. Workman attended a men's club meeting at Fitchburg. The club is made up of members of the faculties of the Massachusetts State Teachers Colleges. >
* * * *
Miss Larned directed a play, The Enchanted Christmas Tree, by Percival Wilde, given at the Christmas meeting of the Civic League Players of Framingham. Miss Margaret Walker, a Framingham alumna, sang with the carolers in this play.
The Commuters’ Organization Christmas party was held Monday, December 10, at 5:30. Inexe]>ensive gifts, which added to the fun of the |xirty, were exchanged among the girls.
Helen Eagan, chairman, was assisted by the following committee: Jeanette Cooper '33, Edith Lindsay ’33, refreshments: Mary Falvey '35, Florence Bacigalupo '33, Margaret Magee '33, and Gladys Nelson '33, decorations and gifts: Rose Gill '35 and Barbara Houston '35, entertainment: Helen Landry '34, posters and sign-up sheets: Rose Hartley '35, serving: Dorothy Fisher ’34, music.
A bridge party was held Friday, December 9, in room 82.
TRAINING SCHOOL
Miss Hazel McCann of the Boys’ and Girls’ Bookshop of the Women's Educational and Industrial Union was the guest speaker of the Parent Teachers Association of the Jonathan Maynard School, Wednesday, November 30. The meeting was under the direction of Mrs. Stuart B. Foster, president of the Association.
Miss McCann gave a very interesting discussion of children’s books, having on display an attractive collection of her own.
Following the lecture, tea was served, with Mrs. Dunlap in charge.
Tuesday, December 13, the eighth grade girls served a Christmas luncheon under the direction of Miss French. Miss Cushing, principal of the training school, and Miss Joyce, eighth grade teacher, were guests.
Thursday, December 16, Miss Cushing and Miss Arey, the seventh grade teacher, were guests at a breakfast served by the seventh grade girls.
Report cards for the second term were issued December 15. Effort marks are now entered with accomplishment marks for each subject. A new type of card, which is much more convenient for the teachers, is used for the junior high grades.
Christmas is to be celebrated in true Christmas spirit Friday, December 23, at the Jonathan Maynard School. In the morning the children will gather in the assembly hall to sing carols under the direction of Mr. Archibald. Miss Thacher will accompany them at the piano.
In the afternoon the traditional visits to the various classrooms will take place in order to give all the children an opportunity to view the Christmas decorations and projects of the other classes. After the visits, the children will return to their own classrooms to enjoy a party.
The first half of the assembly period on Monday, December 19, was devoted to a Christmas program through the kindness of Miss Gray with pupils of Grade 2, and Miss Thacher with pupils of Grade 4.
Mr. and Mrs. Gustavus Scott announce the birth of a son, Robert Arno, on October 6. Mrs. Scott was formerly Marguerite Holden of the class of 1933.
THE WARREN KAY VANTINE STUDIO, INC.
Official Photographer for
Stale Teachers College at Framingham 1931-32	.
160 BOYLSTON STREET ::	BOSTON, MASS.
The Fine Arts Club
The Fine Arts Cub met for their monthly business meeting on Monday, December i 5, in room 41, Betty Pipe ’33, presiding. । The secretary’s and treasurer's reports were read and the members were requested to pay their dues as soon as possible to Mary Secor.
Ruth Johnson '35, Faith Sincerbeau '33, Harriett Werner '34, and Lettice Mitchell '33 were elected to choose the annual play to be presented in March.
* •+ * *
The Art section meets Monday and Thursday afternoons in the studio to paint and sketch. No definite program is followed at these informal meetings. Mr. Ried is usually present to assist in the work.
The Musical Clubs
The musical clubs have been working very hard on Christmas music. Their first attempt to extend Christmas cheer took place on Monday, December to, at the Ladies' Home.
* * * *
On Tuesday some of the members of the Glee Club went to the Framingham Hospital to sing carols.
* * * *
A very successful newspaper costume party with eighty people attending was held to raise funds for a viola for the school orchestra. The costumes were particularly clever and prizes were given to Mr. Archibald, Miss Poole, Miss Kingman, Madelync Brier '34, and Hazel Crowdis '35. Ice cream, cake, and candy were served.
* * * *
Many of the girls have ordered the Glee Club pin, which is in the form of a G-clef.
Jjt	*	*	*
Chairmen and committees have been elected for the concert on February 3.
General chairman, Marion Slayton '34.
Chairman of programs, Arleen Morse '34. Chairman of tickets, Maybelle Stevens '34. Decorations, Madelyne Brier '34.
Head usher, Frances Ramsdell '34.
The A’Kempis Club
The A’Kempis Christmas party was held Tuesday, December 13, from 4 DO until 5:30, with many members of the club present. Miss Long of the training school faculty also atttended.
Entertainment was provided by jig-saw puzzles, and prizes were awarded to the winners. Ice cream and cookies were served.
Ruth Carlon '34, chairman of the committee, was assisted by Loretta Kiely '34 and Alice Tobin '34.
“Christmas is the perfect drama of what life would be like if we could ‘remain forever thus,’ a drama of the incarnation of personality at its very best.”
“The work of the world is done by few; God asks that a part be done by you.”
"As I watch Christmas candles burn, I see in them a symbol of the Great Love which dipped a lustrous spirit into human form, that the world in its darkness might be illumined and made beautiful."
Items for Your
Notebook
No. 1
There are so many interesting facts that form a background for the Fine and Industrial Arts that I have decided to place a few before you in units. These may come in handy some lime as reference material, so cut them out for your notebook. Let us begin with:
The Neolithic and Paleolithic /Ige—covering a period from 10,000 to 2000 B.C. It is a combination period of both the Stone Age and the Reindeer Age because of the preponderance of stone utensils and weapons and the use of the reindeer and moose in most of its crude forms of design. It was in this period that the hieroglyphics first appeared and also the first crude practical cooking utensils.
The Egyptian and the Egypt-Assyrian Age—covering 2500 years from 3000 to 500 B.C. This includes the Old, Middle and New Kingdoms of Egypt. Their designs were famous for symbolical meanings. There are interesting stories connected with many of the following forms, The Nile Patterns, the Lotus in many forms, the fifty or more types of Scarabs, and the Winged Globe, etc. The Assyrians used the stars, the moon, and the sun in many of its forms. The present day “princess flared” skirt is almost a replica from early Assyrian panels.
The Roman Period—covering about 1100 years from 1600 B.C. to 500 A.D. In dress the tunic and toga appear standardized. Many of their designs, in the height of their glory, were shown in the forms of rosettes radiating from definite centers, the ancestors of present day “radial balance" in design. Their mosaics and fluted columns form a definite background for many architectural details now used. The Acanthus was also developed then as an architectural form.
The Greek Period—2000-330 B.C., covered 1650 years. It was called the Golden Age of Classic Art and Culture. It was during this period that the three orders of Architecture were created, Ionic, Doric and Corinthian. In costumes the Doric and Ionic Chiton and the Himation were created as standards in dress. The Petasus as headgear for men. The famous forms of Volutes, Involutes, Greek key, Anthemiun, etc., were developed as forms of design that are considered as beautiful today as they were then.
The Dark Ages—700 years from 300 to 1000 A.D.—The Fall of the Roman Empire. The degeneration of a race that ended in ruined cities, palaces pillaged, ruined art forms, murder and war. In the arts there was nothing but the old forms left. Crc-ativeness had temporarily stopped. Christianity began to bring order out of chaos.
Byzantine Period—500 to 1500 A.D.— The Pagan world united with the Christian, centering its activities around Byzantium now called Constantinople. Constantine the king became a Chfislian and discarded Roman art, language, laws and civilization and a real Byzantine culture developed.
Crusade Period—300 years, 1000 to 1300 A.D.—Christianity grows. Urged on by a frenzied Christian spirit the Crusaders (1095-1291) spread, through love of war, their doctrines of knighthood and chivalry. The cross and vine as an art emblem were used in many "heraldic” forms. It was during this period that Giotto was at the height of his career as an Italian painter. You should all know of the story of the “O" of Giotto.
Gothic Period—200 years, 1200 to 1400 A.D.—The development of the Gothic Cathedrals, and the heavy Gothic furniture in the forms of massive benches and chairs made this e|>och famous. Their designs showed illustrative details in decorative form of Biblical stories worked out in beautiful stained glass windows. The Gothic tapestries will stand as monuments for posterity. The handling of the human figure in carvings and the raised traceries are still wonders of the world.
The Early, Middle and High Renaissance Period—1300 to 1650—This was indeed a rebirth of Art and Civilization. It was during these great periods of the Renaissance that Chaucer, Shakespeare, Co|>ernicus, Kepler and Galileo lived. An art was developed with native forms, fused witli the
YWCA
The group studying the life of Jesus met on November 30 and December 14 in Crocker Hall. The girls are now studying the boyhood of Jesus. Adelaide Harrison has been elected scribe.
♦ * ♦ ♦
The Y. W. C. A. held an International Christmas meeting in Horace Mann living room from 5:00 to 5:45, Tuesday, December 20.
Miss Larned gave a vivid picture of Christmas in France and Germany, and members of the association, Hclmi Holm-lund ’33, Wanda Hazner '35, and Veronica Bahleda '36, told the group about the customs of their fathers’ homelands, Sweden, Poland, and Czechoslovakia. These talks showed that the true Christmas spirit, one of service and love, is found throughout the world. ♦ * * ♦
Members of the Y. W. C. A. made a Christmas visit to the Old Ladies’ Home in Framingham Centre on December 20, where they sang Christmas carols and the freshmen string trio played appropriate selections. Ruth Parker read “The Spirit of Christmas” by Edith Hooker and Betty Waite contributed several fine poems.
* * * *
The poetry circle has met twice during December. At the first meeting humorous selections were read and discussed. At the second meeting each member read her favorite poem on friendship. These were added to the anthologies being compiled by the members. Katherine Philbrick '36 was elected scribe of the group.
* * ♦ ♦
The Inter-Racial Group met with Miss Larned on the afternoon of November 28. This meeting was devoted to the study of the French system of government. Miss Larned had many pictures of President LeBrun and the members of the House of Representatives.
♦ * ♦ ♦
Miss Hunt’s interest group has had three meetings1 in room 108 Horace Mann Hall. The girls have been reading Marriage to India by Mrs. Sarangadar Dhas. The next book to be discussed will be Pearl Buck's East Wind—West Wind.
Everyone is invited to take part in the discussions.
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
Do you know that there is a Y. W. C. A. Bookshelf in the reading room? Look for the “Inch Library I”
Greek and Roman classic designs. The Scrolls, Nature forms, Spirals, Cartouche and Urns form designs that are reproduced in conservative modern art.
It was indeed a period of art development that stands pre-eminent — such men as DaVinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Titian, Hals, Rembrandt, Rubens, Murillo, Velasquez, Durer and Holbein. The human figure has never been drawn in the anatomical accuracy that we find in the works of these men. They did more than merely copy nature. They created for all time.
The Rococo-Baroque Period — 1600 to 1800 A.D.—Lavish, overdone and in many cases |>oorly constructed forms of furniture were developed at this time. The “rococo-esque” type of continuous curves in mirrors, clocks, picture frames and furniture in gaudy gold leaf and gildings made this period famous. It was an age of overdecoration, everything being done in lavish and extreme style.
The Empire Period—1700-1820.—Napoleonic Era. It was during this period the high-waisted and graceful Empire gowns were created.
F. W. Ried.
(To be continued in next issue)
“Aim lower and go higher.”
—William B. Storey.
SPORTS
A lull prevails in athletics at this time of the year following the tense excitement of Harvard-Yale, and preceding the visit of “Santa Claus.”
Class and division hockey games have been payed both systematically and satisfactorily under the direction »f Arleen Morse '34.
Sliding and skating will now occupy the spotlight unless “Old Man Winter” gets “cold feet.”
The monthly business and social meeting of the Athletic Association was held in the assembly hall, Wednesday, December 21, at 4:00. Cleo Aucoin '34, Helen Landry '34, and Marion Zeh '34, were in charge of the social part of the meeting.
Basketball season will start following the Christmas vacation.
It is not too late now to join A. A. Ask “Santa" for a dollar bill and take it to Katherine McNeilly, Crocker Hall. There are still good times coming; you won’t want to miss them.
Slipping in School
Who said depression? / have fun.
I don’t need presents, No, not one.
I don’t need clothes To play outside.
Not when I’ve found The linoleum slide!
I don’t want skates.
I don’t want skiis. I don’t need snow, Nor any breeze. Leather soled shoes?
I do need these!
So if you're tired
And you want to play, Come to Wells Hall, Come any day.
We'll start from the top
Then we’ll slide—what a thrill! Who said depression?
There is fun on the hill.
R. H. C.
“Open wide the window of our spirits, and fill us full of light;
Open wide the door of our hearts, that we may receive and entertain Thee with all our powers of adoration and love.”
OLD FRAMINGHAM INN Luncheon Afternoon Tea Dinner Overnight Guests Quotations for Special Parties gladly furnished.
SEDDON The Florist Warren Place Framingham Centre, Mass.
We Lunch at TRAVIS DRUG STORE
FOR FLOWERS
Phone 3533 BUTTERWORTH'S Framingham, Mass.
Cyril Sullivan diligently working on a science experiment amid the shouts of “I’m Harvard, I’m Yale."
"Peg”: “What arc you, Cyril?"
Cyril: “I'm busy.”	.
* * * *
DINING ROOM
Jess: "Gee, I’ve got water up my nose."
Georgia: “That’s all right as long as you keep it there.”
* ♦ * *
SCIENCE
Miss Hunt: “How big is a turbine?”
Mitchell: "About the size of a small beret.”
* * * *
MUSIC APPRECIATION
“Sab”: “Mr. Archibald, what kind of an instrument makes the bird calls in that record ?”
Mr. Arch.: “Oh, that’s only a defect in the record..”
♦ * * ♦
' HISTORY OF EDUCATION
L. Mitchell: “Romulus built a wall and Remus jumped over it.”
Class echoes: “No, Remus built the wall. No. Romulus," etc.
L. Mitchell: “Well, I don’t know, Miss Larned, one built it and the other jumped over it.”
♦ * ♦ ♦
“Dot” Schuerch, repeating oath concerning history books: “I promise not to return any books which I may have taken from this room and not to take any out illegitimately.”
♦ ♦ * ♦
"Sab” Mango says that she gets so tired in the day time that she has to sleep at night.
* * ♦ ♦
Miss Larned: “Who was the Greek who failed to make a successful flight?”
“Trudy” C.: “Pegasus.”
* $ ♦ *
Nit: “ ‘To much’ is a verb.”	,
Wit: “How so?"
Nit: "Haven’t you ever muched 11 cookie?”
♦ * ♦ ♦
Heard in library:
Trudy: "Montaigne went to college when he was six years old.”
Jess: “Yuh, he was perhaps crazy.” ♦ * ♦ ♦
Crocker Hall. *
Miss Hall: “How do you prepare parsnips?”
Grace M.: “I don’t know, I never prepared them."
Miss Hall: “That’s right, first you pare them.”
* ♦ * ♦
Miss Gerritson: “What do you think, Miss Cunningham?”
Peg: "No, I am not.”
* * * *
Chemistry lab. immediately after chapel.
Emma M.: “Kids, there’s no psychology today.”
Chorus: “Who said so?”
Emma: "It was announced right from the altar.”	’
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
“Liz”: “Hey, ‘Jess,’ where’s Togoland?”
"Jess": “Has it got anything to do with Eskimos?"
CLASS of 1935
These teachers with their just for fun exams!!
Miss Carter: “Take this test, just for fun?"
Mr. Archibald: “I'm going to give you a short exam to test your memory. It’s just for fun.”
♦ ♦ * *
HEARD DOWN THE CORRIDOR
1 The KMnO4 changed color because the sun is north of the globe now, so the sense organs of which the student must know arc Labrador, Greenland, and that cake my mother sent me. You mean to tell me that’s flabby fat right in the face I When the mothers and fathers visit school you have to be dignified and treat them in a professional way and you don’t realize how tired you get.
* * * *
IF
(With apologies to Kipling)
If you can make the vilest stinks invented And work in them from morn till late at night,
Or with your lot be perfectly contented When you arc asked to fool with dynamite; If you can still remain quite calm and placid When plant officials effervesce and fret, Or being told to test a fuming acid Can suck it through a 1-cc. pipet;
If you don’t get just what the boss expected Yet have the pluck the true results to state, And from the truth refuse to be deflected And never stoop to adding in the date;
If you can read a bunch of sample numbers When all the labels have been soaked in crude,
And can, when wakened from your slumbers At 2 a.m., respond in cheerful mood;
If you can drop the fruit of your exertion Before you’ve weighed it, on the concrete floor,
And feeling not a symptom of aversion Can start again as blithely as before; If you can take a broken desiccator And from it improvise a Liebig still, Or gage the rainfall by the dehydrator And give three hours a week to first-aid
drill;
If you can subjugate all thought of pleasure And still retain a meed of self-esteem;
If you can give your few short hours of leisure
To keeping up with every modern theme; . If you donate your every waking minute And seek your sole reward in duty done, Yours is the Lab. and everything that’s in it.
And what is more, you’re welcome to it, Son.
Mrs. J. C. Lamb.
Industrial and Engineering Chemistry.
♦ * * *
“HOW WOMEN BEGAN”
Ancient Sanskrit legend says:
“In the beginning when the great God Tirashtri came to the creation of Woman he found that he had exhausted the solid materials on making man, so he took the rotundity of the moor, the curves of the creepers, the clinging of the tendrils, the slenderness of reeds, the bloom of flowers, the lightness of leaves, the timidity of hares, the vanity of peacocks, the gaiety of sunbeams, the weeping of clouds, the fickleness of the winds, the sweetness of honey, the cruelty of the tiger, the glow of fire, the coldness of snow, the chattering of jays, the cooing of doves, the hypocrisy of the crane, and fidelity of the camel and compounded these elements into woman.”
♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
“Effort brings its joy;
Success, its own reward."