Page:The Fraternity and the College (1915).pdf/81

 characteristics which should be present in every good man. If there are any undesirable characteristics, such as 'yellow streaks,' they are very sure to show when a candidate is undergoing a severe test of 'horse play.' There is no doubt, however, that the 'rough house' element in many initiations has degenerated into a selfish desire on the part of a few individuals to get even with the pledge; hence the wholesale beating-up which so frequently occurs. From my own experience, I can say that a minimum amount of the 'rough house' element rightly applied can no doubt be a benefit to every pledge." Following the theory, perhaps, advanced by Bill Nye that "A certain amount of fleas is good for a dog."

On the other hand those who oppose "horse play" and who contend that the simple ritual is most effective give equally strong reasons. From some of these letters I quote.

"In the first case, a fraternity initiation should away from the effectiveness and dignity of any initiation. Secondly, true men are sportsmen enough to do the stunts they are asked to perform without any paddling or beating. More effective methods of regulating and discipling an initiate can be devised. Thirdly, a 'rough house' initiation is not a great amount of fun for the men present,