Germantown Academy - Ye Primer Yearbook (Fort Washington, PA)

Page 54 text:

THE PRIZE DEBA TE Une of the most interesting things that took place during the school year was the Prize Debate. The question which the debat- ers of the First Form selected to settle for all time was: Resolved, That the railway rates should be controlled by Congress. The question, while rather a new one, is the one which the present generation will have to settle. It was rather a difficult one for young minds to discuss, yet the manner in which the debaters handled it deserves much praise. It was more of an oratorical contest than a debate. However, some of the boys brought out strong proof, and it was very hard to find any unfinished lines in their arguments. The entire school gathered in our large assem- bly hall in order to hear it, and by the manner in which each debater was received, it was evident that all were pleased. VVe wish to congratulate the successful contestants, and feel highly honored that they are members of our class. Joseph Kuehnle, the winner of the lirst prize, made an excellent speech. Although it was brief, it was right to the point, and he had an abundance of proof for each argument. The cool manner in which it was delivered proved beyond doubt that he was master of the situation at all times. Olney Payne, the winner of the second prize, also had a very good speech. It showed great preparation and was one of which any boy might well feel proud. As our space is limited, it will be impossi- ble to discuss each speech fully, yet we leel it our duty to say that joe Brown and Robert Coleman deserve special mention. To Sterrett, Peck, Cookman, Campbell, Lea, Keefer and Ralston much credit is due for their good work. VVe hope the boys will be just as suc- cessful wherever duty calls them to speak, and feel sure they will be. The Primer extends its hearty congratulation to the debaters.

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BELFR Y CL UB The Belfry Club of the Germantown Academy gave its thirteenth annual perform- ance at Manheim, on Monday and Tuesday evenings, February 26th and 27th, 1906, pro- ducing Mark Twain's story, The Prince and the Pauperf' The play was an unusually hard one, and it was only after great prepara- tion that the boys were able to give it. Considering that it was the first time for a number of years that the play has been given two nights in succession, it was very success- ful. The attendance was good on both nights, and everyoneyseemed much pleased with it. The proceeds from the first performance went to the G. A. A. A., and the second to the Ger- mantown Hospital. Charles H. Riley, the Class of ,o6,s veteran actor, had the principal role, having the double part, the Prince and the Pauper. His acting was very good and added greatly to the suc- cess of the play. F. W. Hentz, '06, Robert Shields, '05, and Herbert Brown, '85, also are to be complimented. The stage direction was under the supervision of Mr. Palmer, '89, who has successfully staged our plays for a number of years. He deserves much credit for his work, and is hereby given our most hearty thanks for his faithful coaching. The cast was as follows: Edward, Prince of Wales, afterwards King Edward VI, Tom Curty, the Pauper Charles H. Riley, '06 Earl of Hertford, Lord Protector of Eng- land ................. Vlfilliam Gemmi,i06 Lord Seymour, younger brother of Earl Rowland E. Lea, '06 Miles Hendon, a soldier of fortune F. VValter Hentz, '06 John Curty, a London thief Robert Shields, '05