in relation to the past and to the future, which recognizes the existence of the Infinite as well as the Finite, of the Ideal as well as the Real, which while it insists on relative standards of conduct, also insists on the existence of an absolute standard towards which man is tending, which, in thus increasing our knowledge of man and of man's relation to the universe, has increased immeasurably our insight and power,—"And with much Power comes always much more Love,"—to such thought, religion and poetry owe an overwhelming debt of gratitude.
The two men of the age who have, to my mind, most insisted on these truths are Herbert Spencer and Robert Browning.
Let us picture to ourselves the gigantic figures of the Philosopher and the Poet standing at the portals of the Infinite: one holds in his hand the keys, the other the lamp which casts foreshadows of a dim splendor ever on before in that eternal circle life pursues."
SOCIETIES.
The Query Club, of Nashville, Tenn., has revived its study of Shakespeare with greater earnestness this season than ever. Its capable and enthusiastic leader, Mrs. C. M. Harris, writes that it began the winter with a historical play, "Henry V.," and is now busy with the comedy of "As You Like It," intending to conclude the session with the tragedy of "King Lear." Mr. H. M. Doak, of Nashville, favorably known as a student of Shakespeare, gave the club a fine Shakespeare talk, and Professor W. M. Baskervil, of the Vanderbilt University, addressed them on "King Lear."
The Mutual Club, of Woodland, Cal., is formed, writes its leader, Mr. C. W. Thomas, for the "Study of General and Comparative Literature." That so broad a scope of study should be adopted by a club is not only a significant sign of the irresistible tendency of vigorous society work, hut one that may suggest to other clubs a course which would not only vary their programmes and make their organiza-
