American Ideas for English Readers

The University of Cambridge having under comparatively recent regulations given archeology a definitely-recognized position among the subjects for the Classical Tripos examination, has now advanced another important step by establishing a suitable home for classical studies, and under the same roof has provided a home for the antiquarian and ethnological collections of the University. For the past eleven years classical archeology has been systematically taught, but what was previously carried on under difficulties has been since 1884 pursued under advantageous circumstances. New buildings were formally opened May 6, 1884, by the Vice-Chancellor. Brief addresses were made by the Vice-Chancellor and Prof. Colvin. Mr. LOWELL then said:

He also regretted with the Vice-Chancellor, both on his own account and on theirs, the absence of the French Ambassador, who could have spoken on archeological subjects from the position of a master. He had been asked to say a few words, and with sincerity he could say that it always gave him great pleasure to be the herald that brought to the old home a message from the new. That scarlet gown, which had suddenly converted him into a flaming minister (_laughter_), reminded him that Cambridge had adopted him as one of her children. (_Cheers._) He therefore felt charged to bring a message from the new Cambridge in the New World -- a message of filial respect -- to the old Cambridge in the Old World. There was also a propriety in his being there, from the fact that a great deal of the interest which had been felt in this undertaking had been stimulated by the lectures and the labors of a countryman of his own. Having said this, he might naturally be expected to take his seat, but he knew he was not expected to do so.