The Yale freshmen are at present receiving their annual lecture in the columns of the Yale papers, berating them for their indifference and alarming backwardness in the matter of athletics. We cannot remember the time when the performance of this solemn duty did not fall to the lot of the Yale publications. Ancient custom has sanctioned it, and therefore, we presume, had the New Haven college the most phenomenally athletic class ever seen, it would still have to endure from its seniors words of disparagement and exhortation.

Exhortations delivered to Harvard freshmen are perhaps of no great practical value. Practical works and private energy are generally of the most effect here. A class soon exhibits its temper and gives in some unmistakable way very soon after its entrance unmistakable evidence of its spirit and enthusiasm. Its first class meeting showed that want of enthusiasm cannot be laid to the charge of the class of '87. Whether this enthusiasm will be turned into well directed energy and find its expression in the freshmen's contests in football, rowing and base-ball is yet to be seen. We have no reason to think the result doubtful at present.