Interesting Address by Mr. Guild

Under the auspices of the University Debating Club, Hon. Curtis Guild, Jr., '81, lieutenant-governor of Massachusetts, delivered an address last night in the Living Room of the Union on "Public Speaking in Politics." Mr. Guild began by outlining the essential qualities of a public speaker. It is a current belief, he said, that in the field of American politics public speaking has been wholly supplanted by the newspapers. It is indeed true that at present the press, especially since it is entirely independent. and to a great extent a substitute for the old time orator and political mountebank, does exert a tremendous influence. Yet the public will always listen to a sincere address, no matter how disliked the speaker may be. conviction of opinion secured Bryan a large following, despite the flaws of his political platform; and sincerity obtained for Roosevelt immediate popularity, notwithstanding the bitter opposition of the Democratic newspapers.

The most effective speakers employ the simplest methods. They must have something to say, they must mean what they say, and they must say it so that it can be heard. Sound arguments and plain facts carry more votes than party abuse or flights of rhetoric. Honest purpose, backed by character, does not always succeed, yet never more than today has the sincere advocacy of a cause a better chance of hearing.

By the use of personal anecdotes Mr. Guild went on to illustrate the main defects of a "stump" speaker, showing what trivial details may spoil the most finished address; as, for instance, the effect of a tactless introduction or the sensation caused over a brass band. In closing be related several interesting experiences of his campaign tour with Roosevelt through the western states.