situated not far from the Campus, and are conducted with the most profound secrecy. No "Bones" man has ever been induced to disclose any of the doings of the society, and genuine offence is taken if it be referred to in his presence.
Next in importance comes the "Scroll and Key" society. Its members are all men prominent in some direction, but, as a rule, they are less celebrated than the "Bones" men. Popularity and wealth are important considerations in the choice of many of the "Keys" men, and the honor of membership is almost as eagerly sought as in "Bones."
The society yclept "Wolf's Head" has sprung into existence within a few years, and has grown to a good deal of importance and popularity. It has, like its sister organizations, a beautiful building, the interior of which is said to be handsomely furnished.
The Junior societies, "Delta Kappa Epsilon" and "Psi Upsilon," are ancient and honorable organizations which have been celebrated in story and in song. Prominence and popularity are the important factors in the choice of members. Up to the year 1877, both societies were accustomed to give Thanksgiving plays in Alumni Hall. These performances were very attractive to old graduates and town-people, but the college boys fell into the habit of doing and saying such objectionable things on these occasions that the faculty finally prohibited further public performances; and so it has come to pass that the yearly exhibitions are now witnessed only by the members of the society under whose auspices they are held. The exhibitions take the form of minstrel shows and burlesques on the plays of Shakespeare or some more modern author. The minstrel shows frequently include imitations of the eccentricities of the various professors, and are invariably received with great gusto. Costumers from New York are employed, and much time is spent in rehearsing for the presentations. Similar plays are given in May on the occasion of the initiation of the Sophomore members.
In addition to the fraternities mentioned above, there are several Sophomore and Freshman societies and a large number of Sheffield Scientific School societies; but they are less important than those that have been named.
The University Club is a purely social organization, and was established some years since for the purpose of affording a freer intercourse than the Seniors and Juniors had hitherto enjoyed. Its membership is confined to the two upper classes in the Academic department, to Sheffield Seniors, and to graduates. It is a sort of head-quarters for Yale men in and out of New Haven, and is among the first of the places visited by alumni when they come to town.
