The Spike or Victoria College Review, June 1903

The Debating Contest

The Debating Contest.

Judges : J. W. Joynt, Esq., M.A.; Rev. J. W. Simmonds; W. J. Morrell, Esq., M A.

St. Benedict's Hall was crowded on Saturday night to hear the Debate, and a contest of very even merit was patiently endured. Though much of the "oratory" was good, little was really excellent. The Canterbury men waxed most eloquent, though the Auckland men probably made the best points. Few in the Hall were certain as to the result when the Judges retired, but few were surprised at the decision.

The Debate was arranged in two parts, Victoria College and Otago University trying conclusions first, and Canterbury and Auckland Colleges afterwards on the same question. The subject of Debate was "That a System of Compulsory Military Training for Home Defence be enforced throughout the Empire." The Victoria College Representatives spoke well, Ostler especially relieving the situation by taking up a slightly dramatic line of attack. Canterbury College was awarded first place, and Otago University second. Canterbury College was represented by Rev. A. B. Chappell and Mr. J. R. Cunningham.

While the judges were considering their verdict the Auckland students entertained the audience with an amusing comedietta, "Sappho," the words of which were written by Dr. B. D. Bamford, an old student of Auckland College.