Events and words

"Drama" from Kenneth Firth of Wellington Repertory proved most stimulating. He documented the sordid story of Britain's surrender to the dollar, how it had closed Britain's film studios and theatres, until, despite the fight of Actors' Equity, half Britain's actors were on the wharf or the dole. Apart from the warning implied in this, ho approved of New Zealand's projected National Theatre.

Prof. Gabriel (Otago) attempted a "popular science" talk, while denying that the scientist needed concern himself with man's, conquest of his environment. Rev. Bates analysed religious currents from the broader Protestant viewpoint. Mr. D. R. Grey, the Otago philosopher, thought we were all frightfully sweet, made the careful distinction between "mind and matter or the philosophies and science," and, standing on his toes, clasping his hands and rolling his eyes heavenwards; asked every questioner if he was quite sure what he was talking about.

Mr. Braybrooke, on Modern Trends in Law, gave some real meat on the rights of the individual, the growth of the Order in Council, and the use of "sub Judice" to muzzle discussion.

Ormy Burton seemed to derive his pacifism ultimately from original sin, and rejected all forms of violence and coercion. He rejoiced in the accusation of "christian anarchism," while admitting that war and social evils were fruits of capitalist society.