Duke University - Chanticleer Yearbook (Durham, NC)

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Preface to the Present Samuel Fox Mordecai, first dean of the Duke Law School, was a unique campus personality. One of the most brilliant men in the University, the Dean had a sharp and wonderful wit, combined with a vast knowledge of literature, which enabled him to quote at length from almost anything. It was a rare day when Dr. Mordecai ' s dog, Pompy Duck-legs, didn ' t accompany him to class. During his lectures, the dog sat by his desk, chewed tobacco, spit on the floor, and applauded at intervals, just as his master had taught him. Every afternoon, when classes were over for the day, Dr. Mordecai would start off in his chauffeur-driven car for a two-hour ride in the country. He was so punctual in going and coming that the students set their clocks by this daily ritual. Administration Popular among all his students, Law School Dean Samuel Fox Mordecai was a striking campus figure.

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DORIS DUKE — 1951

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Arthur Hollis Edens M ft ' • »» Between classes students chat with Dr. Edens on the Chapel steps. This sort of contact gives stu- dents a clear insight into the workings of Duke. Complete harmony is achieved as Dr. Edens completes his second year as Duke ' s president. T his is Dr. A. Hollis Edens. You might have seen him in the Dope Shop or at a dance, in the football stadium or walking on campus. You might have met him officially as President of the University, a nice, perfunctory desk job that only calls for a twenty-four hour day, seven days a week. His duties are quite simple. He need only be mother- confessor, warden, and captain. He can spend a diverting houi listening to the problems of the faculty, or, if he tires of t the pointed suggestions of the alumni, or an endless lis irate parents who don ' t understand why junior isn ' t Phi B Before you decide to be a university president, talk to him. Maybe then, you can see why all admire him, few envy him.