WISDOM IN THE WEST

"Decorations and medals are humbug", announces Professor Rasmus Bjorn Anderson of the University of Wisconsin as he refuses the Cross of St. Olaf offered him by the King of Norway for his researches in Norwegian literature. Unlike the subject of Browning's verse he sees little glory attached to a "riband to stick in his coat", when voicing the independence of the West and the freedom of the true scholar, he scorns the tinseled tribute of royal appreciation.

There are not many within or without the doors of American education who would follow in the footsteps of this rugged and courageous professor. Every June hordes of successful men come to the universities for the honor of a brief association with prominent academicians, while these latter themselves are not adverse to extra-curriculum honors. From this grand assemblage of notables Professor Anderson stands out, even without his medal.