The Universities and the Social Problem. Edited by John M.
Knapp. (Rivington and Percival.)—The range of this most interesting little volume goes beyond what is indicated by the word "Universities." Various other missions and clubs are represented, the work they undertake being described by repre- sentative writers. The papers—there are thirteen of them—are not by any means cut after one pattern. The writers differ on some important matters. The "working men's clubs" which Mr. Binnington Ingram describes do not sell any intoxicants. The clubs of the "Club and Institute Union," about which Mr. T. S. Peppin writes, permit them. Mr. Peppin says broadly that the teetotal clubs do not pay, and Mr. Ingram's paper allows it to be, at present at least, the fact, though he is hopeful about the future. The average expenditure per member is 2d. per night for drink and food at the club where alcohol is per- mitted. A curious little difference occurs about shirt-collars., In Mr. Ingram's paper the collar appears as a symbol of respectability (p. 49). Mr. Hugh Legge, writing about the " Repton Club for Rough Boys," deprecates the collar. When "the richer ones take to wearing collars," the end is near. (This is a particularly good paper.) Mrs. Marian Barnett writes about " Hospitalities ;" Mr. Percy Alden tackles the grave question of intervention in local administration. There are three excellent papers about the work of women in the East-end. Mr. Jay has something well worth reading to say about Shelters. He tells, by the way, a most amazing tale. "'Work,' I have heard it said, what is that ? Something to eat F'" This is a book which ought to be widely read.
Previous page
