AN EDUCATIONAL FACTOR IN TB . "ENTENTE CORDIALE."
[To um EDITOR OP THE " SPECTATOR.") SIR,—In Paris, close to the Sorbonne, there is an institution of University rank which, through the energy and public spirit of its founder, has woven close ties between the educational systems of Great Britain and of France. The International Guild is a. College in which English-speaking students receive, under the direction of Professors of the Sorbonne, preparation for degrees and diplomas at the University, and where French students attend classes in the English language and literature. The teaching is admirable. The Guild enjoys the confidence of the University, of the Ministry of Public Instruction, and of the English and Scotch Education Departments. Nowhere else can English- speaking students find more competent advice as to their studies in France, or better opportunities of access to French intellectual life.
At present the Guild is in private hands. It is proposed to make it a public institution. Rent, salaries, and working expenses are now paid out of fees. Last year's accounts show a credit balance of £160. This is the margin out of which is paid the salary of the founder, who directs the institution. But when Miss Williams is no longer able to preside over the Guild it will be necessary (if the work is to be carried on at its present level) to secure the services of a successor of equally high position and ability. It is therefore proposed to buy the present rented buildings and to vest them in a body of trustees. This purchase will set free a sum of between £400 and £500 per annum, which will enable the trustees to com- mand the services of a woman capable of carrying forward the work which Miss Williams has set on foot.
The sum required is £12,000. Towards this Lord Strathcona and four City Companies (the Goldsmiths', the Drapers', the Skinners', and the Clothworkers') have given generous contri- butions. The Committee (which includes Lords Weardale and Fitzmauriee, the Principal of London University, the Chairman of the London Education Committee, and the President of the Modern Language Association) desire me to bring the matter under the notice of your readers and to ask for their support. Details of the work of the Guild may be obtained from Mr. Hardress O'Grady, 63 Albert Palace Mansions, Battersea Park, S.W., and contributions should be sent to the honorary treasurer, Mr. H. S. A. Foy, Bush Lane House, Cannon Street, E.C.—I am, Sir, &c.,
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