Columbia University - Columbian Yearbook (New York, NY)

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PRESIDENT'S LETTER To the Class of 1909: A The cordial invitation of the Editor to contribute a word of greeting and good Wishes to the Class of 1909 is one that I am glad to accept. As each succeeding class. takes its place at the head of the undergraduate list and prepares to leave Alma Mater behind and to take up the tasks for which life at Columbia has been a preparation, those of us whose work lies here find our- selves feeling pride mingled With regret. VVe are proud to think that another company of American youth, owing allegiance to Columbia and looking back upon life here with affectionate re- gard, is ready to go out and take a share in the work of the World. We have a feeling of regret that we are so soon to miss the familiar faces and the constant association with those who for four years have been an integral part of the institution's life. Nevertheless, these changes are the law of life itself. So im- pressed was an ancient philosopher by the constant change in the aspect of things that he conceived of change as the fundamental principle which ruled the World. Who dares say that he was Wholly Wrong? But these changes are beneficent and upbuilding only when they carry into the new state or condition the best of What has been gained earlier. Life's law of gravitation seems to be the reverse of the law of gravitation in nature. In life it is the solidest and Weightiest characters and attainments that ultimately find their place at the top. No Columbia class has ever failed to produce some man or some men who have gained eminence and often distinction in the service of their kind and of

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their country. I am sure that the Class of 1909 is no exception to the rule. In the years to come, when you return for your gathw erings and reunions here, you Willbring with you some-I hope many-Whom the world has already recognized as men of useful- ness and of mark. You cannot break the old ties if you would, and I know that you would not if you could. As long as Colum- bia. stands, her doors are open to her sons. With heartiest greeting and every good wish to each and every member of the Class, I am, Sincerely yours, NICHOLAS MURRAY BUTLER.