Original Records of the Phi Beta Kappa Society; Wm. and Mary Qrtly., Vol. 4, No. 4, 1896 Transcribed by Kathy Merrill for the USGenWeb Archives Special Collections Project ************************************************************************ USGENWEB ARCHIVES NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by any other organization or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the contributor, or the legal representative of the submitter, and contact the listed USGenWeb archivist with proof of this consent. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. http://www.usgwarchives.net *********************************************************************** Original Records of the Phi Beta Kappa Society William and Mary College Quarterly Historical Magazine, Vol. 4, No. 4, (Apr., 1896), pp. 213-241. WILLIAM AND MARY COLLEGE QUARTERLY HISTORICAL MAGAZINE VOL. IV. APRIL, 1896 NO. 4 ORIGINAL RECORDS OF THE PHI BETA KAPPA SOCIETY(1) [The Phi Beta Kappa Society was first organized at William and Mary College December 5, 1776. John Heath, a student from Northumberland county, Va., afterwards distinguished for his public services, was the first president, Richard Booker, of Amelia county, was first treasurer, and Thomas Smith, of Gloucester county, was first clerk or secretary. A medal for use and rules of government were promptly adopted. The society continued in active operation till Saturday, the 6th of January, 1781. Three days before this date, the British fleet, bearing Benedict Arnold and his forces, had arrived opposite to Jamestown. With an invasion at the door, the members of the society who still remained at the college met, and "thinking it most advisable that the records should not be removed, determined to deliver them sealed into the hands of the college steward until the desirable event of the society's resurrection". It is presumable that the records were delivered as resolved, but in 1783 one of the members - Landon Cabell, present at the meeting on Janaury 6, 1781 - returned to college, and to him the steward of the college probably surrendered them. At any rate, they are next found in the hands of his son, Dr. Robert H. Cabell, who, on December 14, 1848, de- livered them to the keeping of the Virginia Historical Society. - Virginia Historical Re- gister, Vol. II., p. 52. At the annual meeting of this body in December, 1895, Col. William Lamb, president of the chapter revived at the college, made application for their return. The application was unanimously granted, and the original proceedings, once more in their old custody, are now published as a whole for the first time. In the matter of the present publication, the editor may say that he sought and received the kind endorsement of Rt. Rev. Henry C. Potter, of New York, President of the United Chapters of the P B K; Col. T. W. Higginson, of Cambridge, Mass., late President; Rev. Dr. E. B. Parsons, Secretary of the United Chapters, and Col. William Lamb, President of Virginia Alpha. As the first doings of the first Greek Letter Fraternity in the United States, these records are a curiosity. As the membership embraced the names of some of the most illustrious men in the United States, they are also historical. At the end of the proceedings I have attempted to give brief personal notices of most of these members. It may be observed here that the list, as given by Hugh Blair Grigsby in his "Convention of 1776", is imperfect in omitting some names and misspelling others. ______________________________________________________________ (1) Copyrighted by Lyon G. Tyler, 1896. Page 214. This istory of the society at William and Mary College after its suspension in 1781 is a chequered one. While Elisha Parmele carried the organization to Yale College, whence it spread over the North, no aparent attempt was made for its restoration till 1849. Then an interest was aroused in the subject, and it was discovered that one of the old members, William Short, originally of Surry county, Va., and in the interval distinguished as minister of the United States at the courts of France, Holland, and Spain, was living in Philadelphia at the advanced age of ninety-one. It was a singular fact that he was president of the society when it was interrupted in 1781. Measures were taken to revive the society in the college, with Mr. Short as the connecting link with the original society. This was done, and it was in operation till the war between the States in 1861, when the president of the college, professors, and students rallied again to arms at the call of Virginia. The college came out of the war with blackened walls and greatly diminished revenues. The walls erected in 1693 were once more built upon, and the college was again opened to students in 1867. But the Board of Visitors, after struggling along for several years, were finally forced to close the college in 1881. It remained closed till 1888, when the legislature being appealed to came to its assistance and made provision for an annual appropriation. Suc- ceeding this, Congress passed an act to pay the college $65,000 by way of indemnity for damages done during the war. This was a most creditable act on the part of Congress, and it gives the writer pleasure to state that no Southern members were warmer friends of the bill than Hon. George F. Hoar, of Massachusetts, Hon. N. M. Curtis, of New York, and Hon. Frank E. Beltzhoover, of Pennsylvania. In 1893 the college, restored to new hopes and having an attendance of students greater than at any other time in its history, celebrated its two hundredth anniversary. Among the features of this memorable occasion was the revival of the Phi Beta Kappa Society - a result mainly due to the active endeavors of Col. William Lamb, of the Board of Visitors. The revival was ef- fected under the auspices of Col. Benjamin S. Ewell, the venerable President Emeritus, one of the members initiated at the revival in 1849. On December 9 the following members met at the college: Col. Benjamin S. Ewell, President of Virginia Alpha, P B K; Col. William Lam, W. Talbot Walke, and Rev. Robert Gatewood. The following new members were elected: Lyon G. Tyler, President of William and Mary College; Professors Lyman B. Wharton, J. Lesslie Hall, T. J. Stubbs, Van F. Garrett, Hugh S. Bird, and Charles E. Bishop, of the Faculty, and Mr. Charles Washington Coleman, librarian. At the triennial meeting in 1895 the number of all the chapters of the P B K then existing in the United States was thirty-four. - EDITOR.] "A LIST OF MEMBERS WHO HAVE BEEN INITIATED INTO THE S. P. ALIAS P B K SOCIETY. 1. JOHN HEATH, 6. JOHN STUART, 2. THOMAS SMITH 7. DANIEL FITZHUGH, 3. RICHD BOOKER, 8. THEOCK FITZHUGH, 4. ARMSD SMITH, 9. JOHN STORKE, 5. JOHN JONES, 10. ISAAC HITE, Page 215. 11. WM SHORT, 31. WILLIAM STUART, 12. JNO MORISON, 32. JOHN JAMES BECKLEY, 13. GEO. BRAXTON, 33. THOMAS SAVAGE, 14, HENRY HILL, 34. JOHN PAGE, 15. JOHN ALLEN, 35. WILLIAM CABELL, 16. JOHN NEVISON, 36. ELISHA PARMELE, 17. HARTWELL COCKE, 37. GEO. BRENT, 18, THOS HALL, 38. PEYTON SHORT, 19. SAMUEL HARDY, 39. JOSEPH CABELL, 20. ARCHIBALD STUART, 40. JOHN MARSHALL, 21. JOHN BROWN, 41. BUSHROD WASHINGTON, 22. [PREESON BOWDOIN]*, 42. [THOMAS LEE]* 23. [LYTTLETON EYRE]*, 43. LANDON CABELL, 24. DANIEL CARROLL BRENT, 44. WM. PIERCE, 25. THOMAS CLEMENTS, 45. RICHARD B. LEE, 26. THOS. WILLIAM BALLENDINE 46. WM MADISON, 27. JOHN MOORE, 47. JOHN SWANN, 28. JOHN MORRE, 48. [THOMAS COCKE]*, 29. SPENCER ROANE, 49. [STEVENS THOMPSON MASON]*. 30. WILLIAM STITH, On Thursday, the 5th of December, in the year of our Lord God one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, and the first of the Commonwealth, a happy spirit and resolution of attain- ing the important ends of Society entering the minds of John Heath, Thomas Smith, Richard Booker, Armstd Smith, and John Jones, and afterwards seconded by others, prevailed, and was accordingly ratified. And for the better establishment and sanctitude of our unanimity, a square silver medal was agreed on and instituted, engraved on the one side with S.P., the initials of the Latin S----- P-----, and on the other, agreeable to the former, with the Greek initials on P B P, and an index imparting a philosophical design, extended to the three stars, a part of the planetary orb, distinguished. In consequence of this, on Wednesday the 5th of Janry, 1777, a session was held, in order both to adopt a mode of initiation and to provide for its better security. ____________________________________________________________ *The portions in brackets are supplied from the text, the original entry being worn away. To the list the name of George Lee Turberville, of Westmoreland, should be added, as he asked and obtained leave to establish a chapter in Westmoreland county on May 18, 1780. His name makes the number an even half hundred. Page 216. And first in corporation, an oath of fidelity being considered as the strongest pre- servative, an initiation was accordingly resolved upon and instituted as follows: I, A.B., do swawre on the holy Evangelists of Almighty God, or otherwise, as calling the Supreme Being to attest this my oath, declaring that I will, with all my possible efforts, endeavour to prove true, just, and deeply attached to this our growing faternity; in keeping, holding, and preserving all secrets that pertain to my duty, and for the promotion and ad- vancement of its internal welfare. Whereupon the oath of fidelity being thus prescribed and instituted, was afterwards severally administered to the respective gentlemen, viz.: John Heath, Thos Smith, Richard Booker, Armistead Smith, John Jones, Daniel Fitzhugh, John Stuart, Thck Fitzhugh, and John Stork, as the first essays or rudiments to an initiation. In consequence of this, we severally, freely, and jointly proceeded to the election of officers, proper and most suitable for its internal regulation. Upon the recommendation of three members, viz.: Jno Heath as Presidnet, Richd Booker as Treasurer, and Thos Smith as Clerk, the society esteeming them as necessary persons for the functions of their several duties accordingly selected them. The fraternity having gone through the business of the present session, after a recom- mendation of certain proper and salutary laws, to be prepared against the next ensuing meeting of march the 1st, jointly adjourned. March 1st. Agreeable to the recommendation of our preceding session, we have severally presented the subsequent laws as proper and most conducive to the advantage of our growing fraternity: Resolved 1st. That in every design or attempt, whether great or small, we ought to in- voke the Deity, by some private sacrifice or devotion, for a fraternal prosperity. 2. That a profanation of the preceding oath of fidelity subjects the Member to the pain of the universal censures of the fraternity as well as the misery of certain expulsion. 3. That every member, after being properly initiated, shall be obliged to furnish himself with a Medal, wholly corresponding with those of the Fraternity. 4. That an orderly session of members from the Presdt downwards should be observed. Page 217. 5. That in case of the incapacity or necessary absence of the President, the choice of any other member shall be left to the discretion of the Society. 6. That the non-attendance of any single member, unless by some certain obstructing in- ability, or cogent necessity, subjects him to the penalty of five shillings. 7. That no gentleman be initiated into the Society but Collegians, and such only who have arrived to the age of sixteen eyars, and from the Grammar Master upwards; and further, be- fore his disposition be sufficiently inspected, nor then without the unanimous approbation of the Society(1). 8. That every member during a session behave with a becoming decency, and declare their sentiments, vicissively preventing confusion. 9. That the least appearance of intoxication or disorder of any single member by liquor, at a session, subjects him to the penalty of ten shillings. 10. That for the encouragement of any new invention of Arts and Sciences, some premium be allowed from the public treasury. 11. That six members shall be the fewest sufficient for the execution of business. 12. That each member when desirous of proposing anything to this fraternity shall rise from his seat and particularly address the President. 13. That a regular meeting of once a month, unless a necessity of sooner convening should interpose, is hereby established and ordained. ____________________________________________________________________ (1) There were three departments at the college: First, the Grammar or Latin school, the head of which was called the Grammar Master or Professor of Humanities. He was assisted by an usher, sub-usher, and writing master. This school was open to children of eight years and upwards, who were termed scholars. The school corresponded to the English preparatory schools of Eaton and Harrow. On attaining a sufficient age, they were passed to the philosophy schools, and were ranked as students, and assumed the cap and gown. There were two philosophy schools, viz.: that of natural philosophy and mathematics, and that of moral philosophy, in which was taught rhetoric, the Belles-lettres, and moral and mental science. After passing these schools, the student if he chose divinity as a profession attended the lectures of the Professors of Divinity, of whom there were two. If he proposed to be a lawyer or doctor, he apprenticed himself to some eminent practioner in Virginia, or went to the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, or Edinburgh, or studed at the law schools in England, the Inns of Court, Middle Temple, etc. Page 218. 14. That the duty of Treasurer in keeping accurate estimates and accompts of all reimburse- ments as well as disbursements is esteemed nothing but legal and constitutional. 15. That if any dispute, attended with animosity and indignation, should arise amongst us, such a metter ought to be recognized by a session of the whole Society. 16. That the President be invested with the prerogative of convening the members of this fraternity, when he shall deem it expedient; that he have likewise the privilege of giving a decision, when there happen a division of voices, and hte power of commanding due attendance to be paid him while discharging the important function of his office. 17. That the duty or office of the Clerk be indispensably requisite, as well in keeping a proper roll or conscription of the fraternity, as fair and legible books in writing. 18. That four members be selected to perform at every session, two of whom in matters of argumentation and the others in opposite composition. 19. That such of the compositions as are deemed worthy by the Society shall be carefully preserved and endorsed by whom and at what time delivered. 20. That the youngest on the roll be appointed Herald for the function of convocating the members. 21. That the infringement of any of the laws enacted or to be enacted, except such as have the fines annexed, subjects the members to the discretionary punishment of the Society. 22. That no member shall be expelled without the unanimous concurrence of the Society. 23. That every person after being initiated pay into the public Treasury the sum of 6s - Dollars(1). 24. It is also ordained that any number of members shall have full authority and Power to transact Business of any kind, when these members shall think it absolutely necessary for ye Preservation of ye Society. 25. That any Law or Laws which is, are, or may be enacted agreeable to Resolve cannot be altered or amended in less than a month after the proposed amendment, and then by a majority. 26. That if the number of members, according to Act 11th, cannot be convened, any smaller number shall have power of doing Busi- _____________________________________________________________________ (1) This word is in a different hand, and was added later. On August 22, 1778, the initiation fee was made $5. On June 27, 1779, it was raised to $10. Page 219. ness of any kind. But such Business, Initiation excepted, shall always be subject to be cancelled by a majority until confirmed according to Act 11th (1). 27. Whereas, by Resolve 19th respecting Declamation and argumentation, it is intended that those compositions only be preserved which may do honour to the Society; and, forasmuch as it is inconvenient for the whole meeting to take the merit of them into their due consideration: Resolved that three members be appointed to judge of the Performances, and always to inform the ensuing meeting of their Determination. Provided, however, that when either of the ap- pointed judges declaims, a temporary successor to him as judge be appointed by the meeting(2). March 27th. At a called meeting, Mr. Isaac Hite, being recommended as a worthy member of this fraternity, was accordingly initiated. After which we jointly adjourn ourselves to the established time. April 5th. Mr. Booker having been charged at a meeting of this fraternity of a thorough infringement of three of the preceding resolves, viz.: 6th, 13th and 14th, and whereuon, being willing to receive his defence, we have postponed his examination to the next meeting. After which we jointly adjourn ourselves. April 15th. At a call meeting, Mr Wm Short, Mr John Morison and Mr Geo. Braxton, being recommended as wrothy members of this Society, were accordingly initiated. The business being finished, we adjourn ourselves. April 19th. Mr Booker, having appeared and made his defence, was, with honour and unanimity restored to the good opinion of this Society. The business being finished, we adjour ourselves. May 3d. For the better distinction of the fraternity between themselves in any foreign country or place, it is resolved that a [The rest scratched out.} Mr. Heath, having resigned the office of President, the fraternity proceeded to the appoint- ment of a successor, and Mr T. Smith being recommended, was accordingly appointed. In consequence of this appointment, they proceeded to the choice of a Clerk, and Mr Wm Short being recommended, was also appointed. ____________________________________________________________________________ (1) The twenty-fifth and twenty-sixth resolutions are in a different hand, and were added July 4, 1778. (2) This resolve appears to ahve been added August 8, 1778. Page 220. The fraternity having finished the business of the evening, adjourned to the second Saturday after the expiration of the holidays. June 16th. At a call meeting, Mr Booker, Treasr, having resigned his office, delivered to the Society the money in his hands. And the Society adjourned. June 21st. In consequence of Mr Booker's resignation, Mr Isaac Hite being recommended, was appointed to succeed him. Ordered that Mr Hite and Short be appointed to revise the laws and propose to the next meeting such new ones as seem to them necessary. The business of the night being finished, the Society adjourned. July 2. At a call meeting, in order that the President might resign on account of his leaving the College, he resigned accordingly, and delivered a speech, which is ordered to be carefully kept. In consequence of the above resignation, the Society proceeded to the choice of a successor, and Mr Heath being recommended, was re-elected to this important post. The business being finished an adjournment took place. July 26th. The Society having met agreeable to appointment, assented to the amendments made by those chosen at the last session to revise the laws and make such propositions to the next meeting as seemed to them necessary. The business being finished, the Society adjourned. Nov. 29th. Mr Heath, Prest, being absent: agreeable to the fifth resolve the Society proceeded to the choice of a temporary Prest, and Mr Arms: Smith being recommended as a proper person, was accordingly elected. Mr Henry Hill being recommended as a worthy member of this Society, was initiated. The Business of the evening being finished, the Society adjourned to the 5th of next Month, being the Anniversary, to be kept at the Raleigh. Febry 24. [1778] At a call meeting, the President being absent, they proceeded to nominate one in his stead, upon which Mr Short being recommended, was elected. Mr John Allen, Mr John Nevison, & Mr Hartwell Cocke being recommended as worthy members of this Society, were accordingly initiated. The business of this evening being finished, the Society adjourned to Febry 28. At a call meeting, Mr Hall being recommended as a worthy member of this Society, was accordingly initiated. After which an adjournment took place. Page 221. March 21st. At a meeting of this Society agreeable to an appointment at the last Session, Mr Fitzhugh & Mr Stuart delivered their Declamations, which are ordered to be preserved. On a motion made for an Amendment to the thirteenth Resolve, ordered that for the future a meeting of once a fortnight be observed. Mr Theck Fitzhugh & mr Isaac Hite being next on the Roll, are appointed to produce a Declamation at our ensuing eeting. The Business being finished, an adjournment took place. April 4th. At a meeting of this Society, agreeable to an appointment at the last session, Mr I. Hite & Mr T. Fitzhugh deliver'd their Declamations, which are ordered to be preserved. April 4th. At a call meeting, the President being absent, the Society proceeded to nominate one in his stead; upon which mr I. Hite being recommended, was elected, and likewise Hartwell Cocke was chosen Clerk. Mr J. Morison and Mr G. Braxton being next on the roll, are appointed to produce a Declamation in . . . composition at our ensuing meeting. The Business being finished, an adjournment took place. May 2. At a meeting of this Society, agreeable to former appointment, Mr Morison delivered his Declamation, which is ordered to be preserved. Mr Braxton being absent. The Business being finished, adjournment took place. July 4th. At a meeting of this Society according to adjournment: ordered that an addition of the 25th and 26th Resolves be made to the former Body. The Business being finished, an adjournment took place. July 25th. At a meeting of this Society, it being found convenient to have temporary Presidents, the members proceeded to confirm on in that office and Mr Smith being deemed a proper Person, was accordingly elected. Ordered by an unanimous voice of the present meeting, that an Amendment be made to Resolve 25th. The Business of the Evening being finished, an adjournment took place. July 30th. At a call meeting for the Initiation of Mr Saml Hardy, recommended as being worthy of an admission into this Fraternity, he was accordingly initiated. There being no other Business, an adjournment took Place. Aug. 8th. At a meeting of this Society, W. Short & J. Allen delivered their Declamations agreeable to appointment. Page 222. Ordered that an addition of the 27th Resolve be made to our Code of Laws. That Mr Hardy, Mr Hall, Mr Fitzhugh, Mr Short be appointed judges agreeable to the above resolve. That the absentees of former meetings be exempted from Fines, & in future their excuses be examined at their next attendance without Fail. The Business of the night being finished, an adjournment took Place. Aug. 22nd. Resolved that the last appointment of Judges of Composition be abolished, and that three members, agreeable to Resolve 27th, be chosen by Ballot. The Society proceeded to this appointment; upon examination of the Box, the greatest Number of votes appearing in favour of Mr Hall, Mr Short and Mr J. Stuart, they are accordingly confirmed. Resolved, that as the Price of Initiation hitherto paid is inadequate to the Purpose, it be augmented to five Dollars. Resolved, that in future, meetings of this Society be held regularly once a week. An adjournment. Aug. 29th. Resolved, that three members be appointed to revise the Laws, and that an Election of them be held on the next full meeting. That every member who desires to propose anything to this Soceity produce it in writing. That every member who is absent from the Society be written to in the most pressing Terms to attend on the 5th of December in order to celebrate that glorious Day which gave Birth to this happy Union. The Society, wishing not to impose this Business altogether on the Clerk, proceeded to appoint an assistant, Mr. Hardy, to him for this Purpose. Resolved, that the two members appointed to argue, agreeable to Resolve 18th, shall be confined to the subject of the Compositions delivered at the same meeting; and that it be moreover strongly recommended to the other members, as an additional and improving Exercise, to give their sentiments extempore on the same subject after hearing the others. Sep. 4. At a meeting of this Society, the President being absent, Mr Short was appointed to that Post. Mr Hall and Mr Cocke, agreeable to the last appointment, delivered their Declamations upon the advantages of an established church. Three members, agreeable to a Resolve at the last meeting, were appointed to revise the Laws, viz., Mr Stuart, Mr Hall, & Mr Hardy. Mr Hall be- Page 223. ing one of the Judges, a temporary successor was appointed to inspect his performance, viz., Mr Hardy. Ad adjournt. Sep. 11 & 18. At two meetings no Business appearing from Absence of the appointed Members. Adjournment took Place. Oct. 10. At a meeting of this Society, resolved that a late Resolution requiring a convention of members once a week be annulled, and that in future, meetings be held as formerly, viz., once a Fortnight. Nov. 21st. Not a sufficient number of members appearing hitherto at this meeting, it was resolved that Messrs Smith & Stuart, being the two oldest members, delcaim at the next meeting, and that Messrs Fitzhugh argue on the same subject. Resolved, that Messrs F. Fitzhugh, Morison and Cocke be appointed to make Provision for the ensuing Anniversary, that it may be celebrated with a becoming Solemnity. Mr. Archibald Stuart being recommended as a gentleman worthy an admission to this Society, was in due form introduced. Whereas the members of this Society are willing to take under their care objects worthy of charity, Resolved, that Messrs Hardy & Cocke be appointed to look out for some Orphan likely to receive advantage from being put to a proper School, & make their report of the same to the ensuing meeting. Resolved, that the Clerk purchase for the use of the Society two Quires of paper, & that he draw upon the Treasurer for the Price of the same. An adjournment. Dec. 4th. At a called meeting, it appearing that the State of the Society was declining through Want of Members, Resolved, that a committee be appointed to take the same into their consideration. Resolved, that Messrs Hall, Hardy, A. Stuart, Short, & J. Stuart be appointed. Messrs John Brown, Preeson Bowdoin, Lyttleton Eyre, & Daniel Carroll Brent, being severally recommended as gentleman worth an admission to this Society, were accordingly initiated. The Business of the Evening being over, the Society adjourned with an agreement to meet on to-morrow evening at the Raliegh, to celebrate the Anniversary of this fraternity. Dec. 5th. The Society having met agreeable to appointment, after the President had re- signed and delivered a valedictory on the Occasion, the Night was spent in Jollity & Mirth. Mr. J. Heath and Thos. Smith, of the former members, attended on this auspicious Day, for which they have the grateful Acknolwedgements of the Society. Page 224. Dec. 10th. At a meeting of this Society, upon a motion made that a President be elected, it was agreed on, and after examining the Ballot box, the greatest Number appearing in Favor of Mr. Short, he was in pursuance confirmed, for which the Society received his Thanks. Resolved, that in future, admission to this Society be not confined to Collegians alone. That if any Member appointed to declaim or argue, absent himself on the Night of his intended Performance, he be subject to the Penalty of five Dollars, unless his excuse be deemed sufficient by the Society. Mr. J. Stuart, formerly appointed one of the Committee to revise the Laws, being about to leave College, Mr. A. Stuart was appointed to succeed him. An adjournment. Jan. 23rd [1779]. At a meeting of this Society, the Clerkship being vacant by appointment of the late Clerk to the chair, a new one was balloted for, and the greatest number of votes appearing in favour of Mr. John Nivison, he was accordingly confirmed. Resolved, that in future, members be elected and expelled by ballot, and that it be per- formed by the words Pro & Con. Mr. Heath & Mr. Hite were appointed to engage in composition, and Messrs. Short and Nivison in argumentation at the ensuing meeting. An adjournment. February 6th. At a meeting of this Society, Mr. Heath being absent, the compositions were not delivered. Mr. Clements being proposed as a worthy member was balloted for and received. Mr. Ballindine being also recommended as a wrothy member was balloted for and received. On a motion made for appointing a Successor to Mr. Sal Hardy in order to revise the laws, Mr. Short was appointed to succeed him. On account of Mr. Hite's indisposition he is excused & Mr. Short appointed in his stead to produce in opposition to Mr. Heath. Messrs. Hall and Nivison to argue. The business of the evening being finished, an adjournment took place. February 27th. At a meeting of this Society, Messrs. Heath and Brown, upon making known the reason of their absence at the last meeting, were excused by the Society. According to appointment, Messrs. Heath and Short delivered their compositions, and Messrs. Hall and Nivison argued. Messrs. Hite and Bowdoin were appointed Judges instead of Page 225. Messrs. Hall and Short, who were engaged in composition and argumentation. Messrs. Stuart and Brown were appointed to produce compositions on the justice of African Slavery. Messrs. Bowdoin and Eyre to argue. The Forms of Initiation instituted by the Committee were read and resolved upon. The Laws revised by a committee appointed for that purpose wre read and received universal approbation. Messrs. Baker, Moore, and Roane, being recommended to this Society as worthy members, were ballottted for and received in due form. A Letter was received from our worthy Brother, Mr. John Stuart in which was inclosed twelve shillings which was to purchase a Testament for the Society, but as the Society had been presented with one from Mr John Nivison, it was put into the Treasury. The business of the night being finished, an adjournment took place. At a Meeting of this Society on March 13th, 1779, according to appointment, Messrs. Stuart and Brown delivered their Compositions and Messrs. Bowdoin and Eyre argued. Upon examination of the Treasurer's accounts there was found to be L18, 8s, in the Treasury. Mr. Wm. Stith being recommended to this Society as a worthy Member, was ballotted for and initated in due form. Messrs. Brent and Clements were appointed to produce compositions, inquiring whether Agriculture or Merchandise was most advantageous to a State. Messrs. Baker and Ballindine were appointed to argue on the same subject. The business of the eveing being finished, adjournment took place. At a meeting on Saturday, March 27th, 1779. The Judges having examined the compositions produced at the last meeting, Mr. Brown's was deemed by them worthy of being preserved, and was accordingly preserved. Mr. William Stuart being recommended as a worthy member of this Society was balloted for & initiated in due form. Messrs. Brent and Clements, according to appointment, produced their compositions. Mr. Ballendine being excused from aruging on account of his situation, and Mr. Baker, the other disputant, being absent, the subject was discussed by the Members. Page 226. Messrs. Ballindine and Moore were apointed to produce compositions inquiring whether Brutus was justifyable in having his sons executed. Messrs. Roane and Stith were appointed to argue on the same subject. The business of the Evening being finished, an adjournment took place. At a Meeting on Saturday, the tenth of April, as our President was absent, a temporary one being ballotted for, Mr. Hite was appointed. According to appointment, Messrs. Ballindine & Moore produced their compositions, & Messrs. Roane & Stith argued. Mr. John James Beckley being recommended as a worthy member of this Society, was ballotted for, and it was resolved that there shall be a meeting on Monday Evening for his initiation. Messrs. Baker and Stuart were appointed to bring Compositions enquiring into the cause and origin of Society. Messrs. Heath and Fitzhugh to argue on the same subject. The business of the evening being finished, an adjournment took place. At a meeting April 12th, agreeable to appointment, Mr. John James Beckley was initiated in due form. At a Meeting April the 19th, Mr Thomas Savage being recommended as a worthy member of this Society, was ballotted for & Initiated in due form. Mr Bowdoin being about to depart for Europe, requested the company of the Society at the Raleigh, where he gave them a very elegant Entertainment. After many toasts suitable to the Occasion, the Evenign was spent by the Members in a manner which indicated the highest esteem for their departing Friend, mixed with sorrow for his intended Absence & Joy for his future prospects in Life. April 24th, 1779. According to appointment, Mr. Stuart produced the other gentlemen being absent the subject was not discussed. Messrs. Heath & Hall making the Society acquainted with the reason of their absence at the last meeting, were excused. Messrs. Beckley & Savage were appointed to bring in Compositions enquiring whether a wise state hath any interest nearer at Heart than Education of the Youth. An adjournment. Pursuant to summons from the President for a meeting of the P B K, eleven Members convened at College Wednesday Evening, May 5th, 1779. In absence of the President, Mr Hall is proposed pro Tem:, and on Ballot received a majority of votes. Page 227. Whereupon he took the chair accordingly. J. J. Beckley is in like manner proposed and appointed Clerk. Mr Hite being about to leave College, begs Leave to resign the Office of Treasurer, and desires that his Acct's may be examined. Ordered to be referred to a Committee. Mr Brent and Mr Stuart to retire and report immediately. Committee reported accounts fairly stated, and Cash in Hand L18. 19. 8. with a Balance due the Treasury L4. 10. Ordered to transfer Cash in Hand to the next Treasurer, with the Accts. The Society proceeds to appoint a Treasurer. Mr Stuart being proposed on Ballot, received a majority of Votes. Mr President, Mr Nivison, & Mr Nivison(1) absent and ordered to be noted. Adjd till meeting in Course. Saturday, May 4th, 1779. Mr President and Mr Nivison offered reasons to excuse their non-attendance at last meeting, which were admitted as sufficient. Mr John Page & Mr Henry Blunt were severally recommended as worthy Members of this Society, and on a Ballot taken, Mr Page was unanimously elected and initiated in due form. Mr Blunt, on a Ballot taken for him, was rejected, three ballots being returned with the word con. Mr Savage & Mr. Beckley delivered compositions pro and con on the question whether a wise State hath any Interest nearer at hand than the Education of Youth? Mr Stuart and Mr Heath argued on the same question. Ordered that the Treasurer be directed to furnish candles and such other conveniences for the accommodation of the meetings as may be necessary, placing the same to proper account, and taking Vouchers for the disbursements. It being suggested that it might tend to promote the designs of this Institution and redound to the honor and advantage thereof at the same time, that others more remote or distant will be attached thereto, Resolved, that leave be given to prepare the form or Ordinance of a Charter party, to be entrusted with such two or more brothers of the P B K, as to a General meeting shall, on due application for the same, be thought to merit such a trust; with delegated power in the plan and principles therein laid down, to consititute, establish and initiate a fraternity correspondent to this. __________________________________________________________________________ (1) Perhaps Morison was meant. Page 228. and that a Committee be appointed of Mr President, Mr Stuart and Mr Beckley to prepare a draught of the same and report at next meeting. An adjournment took place . . . . . (1) Saturday, June 5th, 1779. A meeting of the P B K was convened by summons from the President. Present, five members. Mr. Stuart appointed President pro tempore. Mr Beckley, Clerk. Mr William Cabell is recommended as a worthy member of this Society, and on a Ballot taken he is unanimously elected and initiated in due form. Ordered that further time be given to the Committee appointed to prepare the draft of a Charter party & that they report to the next meeting. An apology was offered for Mr Heath's non-attendance, which, being deemed sufficient, he is excused. Mr Hartwell Cocke & Mr Brown appointed to declaim, Mr Stuart & Mr Beckley to argue on Question: Whether an Agrarian Law is consistent with the Principles of a wise Republic. An adjourment took place. A General Meeting of the P B K. June 12th, 1779, being in course. Mr Brent is elected President pro tempore, & took the chair accordingly. Mr. Beckley, in like manner, as Clerk. Mr Cocke & Brown offered declamations on question, Whether an agrarian law is consistent with the principles of a wise republic. Mr Stuart & Mr Beckley argued on same question. Committee appointed reported form of Charter party to lay till next meeting for consideration of the members. An adjournment took place. At a meeting June 27th. The Clerk being absent, Mr Brown was appointed pro Tempore. The committee formerly appointed, having been prevented by unavoidable accidents from compleating the Business relative to the Charter, prayed for an additional allowance of time. Upon a motion made it was agreed to. The Treasurer being about to leave College for some time, desires that his accounts might be examined by a committee and a successor to him appointed. ________________________________________________________ (1) A portion of the sentence too faded to make out. Page 229. Order'd to be refer'd to a committee, Mr. Brent and Mr. Brown to retire and report immediately. Committee reported that the accounts were fairly stated, and cash in hand L21, 19. 8., with a ballance due the Treasy of L6. 0. 0. Ordd to transfer the cash in hand to next Treasurer with the Ballance due. Proceeded to appoint a Treasurer. Mr. Wm. Cabell being recommended was accordingly appointed. Resolved, that as the Price of Initiation hitherto paid is inadequate to the purpose it be augmented to Ten Dollars. Messrs. Roane & Stuart were appointed to bring in Compositions enquiring whether anything is more dangerous to Civile Liberty in a free State than a standing army in time of Peace. Mesrs. Page & Savage to argue on the same subject. The Business of the evening being finished an adjourment took place. At a meeting called by the President July 5th, 1779. Mr. Beckley reported form of Charter party, read & referred to a Committee of the Whole, Mr. Brown in the Chair, reported, a debate by paragraphs and agreed to. Resolved, that the charter party do pass. Mr. Short presented additional laws, read & agreed to. Mr. Beckley offered excuse for non- attendance at last meeting, admitted as sufficient. Mr. Fitzhugh in like manner excused for his first non-attendance and fined for twice not attending. Adjd. At a meeting held in Course, July 10th, 1779. The Clerk being absent, Mr. H. Cocke was appointed pro tempore. Mr. Stuart & Mr. Roane brought in their compositions as by the last meeting appointed, and likewise Mr. Savage & Mr. Page argued on the same. The Persons appd to examine and return whether the Pieces deliver'd be worthy or no to be kept, two of which have now left Colelge, there being two appointed, one of wch is pro tempore, the other is appt constantly to act: vizt. Mr. Brown to act constantly, & Mr. Beckley pro tempore. Resolved, that the Clerk provide an Ink stand and return the price of the same to the Treasurer, which may be reported the next meeting. The persons appointed to form a seal for this Hon: Society are Mr. Short, Mr. Brown & Mr Bickley. Page 230. Ordered that Mr. Hardy have this Charter by the unanimous voice of the members now met. The meeting to be called The Bira. Mr. Cabell & Mr. Fitzhugh appointed to bring in compositions the next meeting, & Mr. Short & Mr. Cocke to argue whether Parents have a right to prevent the marriage of Children after entering into contract. The business being finished, an adjournment took place. At a meeting called by the President July 11th, 1779. The form of Charter Party being again referred to the consideration of a committee, several alterations were suggested as necessary in the same by Mr. Short. The amendments proposed were read in their proper places, and were agreed to. Mr. William Steward then petitioned the Society that a form of the Charter party should be granted him. The Society, considering his zealous attachment to her interests and the particular attention he having paid to her laws, unanimously resolved that the same be granted him & that the meeting be called Pappa. Resolved, that a copy of the form of Charty party and also of the laws be drawn off and delivered to Mr. W. Stuart. Resolved, also, that Mr. Savage and Mr. Cabell be appointed to do the same. Adjd till to-morrow night. July 12th: The P B K met agreeable to adjournment. Pursuant to a former resolution the form of Charter party was delivered Mr. Stuart, toether with teh Code of laws drawn off according to direction. Adjd till day in course. At a meeting held in course July 24th, 1779. The Clerk being absent, Mr. Cabell was appointed pro tempore. Mr. Fitzhugh and Mr. Cabell brought in their compositions agreeable to appointment & Mr. Short and Mr. Cocke argued on the same. Upon a motion made, ordered that the fines instead of one dollar and five, as they now stand, be raised to ten dollars and twenty. Messrs. Brown and Brent appointed to bring in compositions. Messrs. Roane & Beckley to argue the subject, "Whether the Institution of the Ostracism was Legal". An adjournment. At a meeting called by the President July 31st, 1779. The Clerk being absent, Mr Brent was appointed pro tempore. Mr. Eliajah Parmale is recom- mended as a worthy Member of this Page 231. Society, and on a Ballot taken he is unanimously elected and initiated in due form. An adjournment took place. At a meeting of the P K B, August 7th, 1779. The Clerk being absent, Mr. W. Cabell was appointed to act in his stead. The Gent. appointed to compose, brought in their compositions and those that were to support them offered their declamations. Resolved that Mr. Brent & Mr. H. Cocke be appointed to procure a box of such dimensions as may appear most proper to deposit the papers in belonging to this Society; also they procure an inkstand for ye use of the same. Mr. Beckley and Mr. Brent to write, Mr. Savage & Mr. Page to argue. The subject of dis- putation to b whether Commonwealths or Monarchies are most subject to Seditions and Commotions. Adjourn'd. At a Meeting of the P B K, August 14, 1779, John Beckley offered excuse for non-attendance at the two last meetings, which were admitted as sufficient. Mr. Hartwell Cocke in like manner. Mr. Brent was called on but offered no reasonabl excuse, and was thereupon fined according to law. On the motion of Mr. Cabell, the form of a Charter party is granted him by duplicate to be signed aco: to Law. The meeting hereby established to be called Dekra. Adj. At a meeting called October 25th, 1779. The President not present, Mr. John Nivison was appointed pro tempore and likewise Mr. Hartwell Cocke was appointed Clerk pro tempore. Mr. Richard Cocke was balloted for, there being a dissenting voice, he was not initiated. The business being finished an adjournment took place. At a meeting of the P B K, October 29th, 1799. The president being absent, one owas balloted for a majority appearing in favour of Mr. Brown, he resumed the chair. The Clerk being likewise absent one was balloted for & a majority was for Mr. Nivison. In consequence of one of our Laws, we proceeded to the choice of two gentlemen to declaim on the Anniversary. Mr. Short & Mr. Brown were elected for that purpose. Page 232. Mr. Fitzhugh & Mr. Cocke to write, & Messrs. Stuart & Brent to argue. The business of the eveing being finished, an adjournment took place. Meeting covened the 13th November, 1779. Ordered that the Gent. appointed to declaim and argue at this meeting be continued thereafter at the ensuing meeting. A subject is directed on the following question: Whether a General Assessment for the support of Religious Establishmetns is or is not repugnant to the principles of a Republican Government. Mr. Brown discharged from appointment at last meeting to declaim on the Anniversary, and a Ballot taken for another person in his stead -- Mr. Stuart elected. Ordered that summonses issue to convene the absent members on the Anniverary. Various Causes suggesting to this Society the Necessity of appointing a vice-president of this Body to reside in College, and the insufficiency of former laws having occasioned delays in Business & other inconveniences therefrom; It is hereby declared a future law of this Society, that a standing vice-president be appointed who shall have the same powers, in the absence of the efficient president that is given by Law, and it is ordered that this be added to the standing Laws of the Society. So much of any former law as is repugnant to this is hereby repealed. Mr. George Brent was recommended as a gentleman worthy the honor of admission as a member of this Society, and on a Ballot taken he was unanimously admitted and initiated in due form. The Society proceeded to Ballot for a Vice-President, and on examining the Ballots, Mr. Stuart is elected. Ord: Mr. Fitzhugh withdrawing himself be noted. An adjournment took place. At a meeting convened November 27th, 1779. The Clerk being absent Mr. Cabell was appointed to act pro tempore. The Gent. appointed to ye usual exercises performed agreeable to custom. Ordered that Saturday next be celebrated as ye anniversary of this Society. Order'd also that Messr Beckley and Ballindine be appointed to make a proper provision for ye evening of ye 4th December, for ye entertainments of this Society. Order'd that ye fine of five shillings be inflicted on Mr. Fitzhugh for withdrawing himself on ye eveing of ye 13th Novr. Page 233. Mr. Beckley excused from performing at ye next meeting from the multiplicity of business which pressed him. Messrs Ballindine and Roane appointed to declaim and Messrs Savage and Page to argue. The theme of Disputation whether Theatrical Exhibitions are advantageous to States or ye Contrary. The business of ye evening being over an adjournment took place. At a meeting call'd by ye Vice-President Decr 2d, 1779. Mr. Cabell agreeable to Law, laid his accounts as Treasurer before ye meeting, and desired that they might be examined. Ordered to be referred to a Committee. Mr. Brown & Mr. Brent to retire and report immediately. Committee reported accounts fairly stated and case in hand L23.9.6. and a balance due to Treasy L6.17. Mr. Cabell about to leave College for some time begged that a Treasurer might be appointed to act pro tempore. Ordered, that mr. Brown be appointed to do ye same. Introduced a Law which is ordered to be added to ye Standing laws of ye Society, and may be seen under XXII. Adjourn'd till Saturday evening. Saturday, the 4th of December, 1779. A meeting of the P B K was convened at six o'clock P.M., being ye Eve of the Anniversary to Commemorate that day, at Mr. Davenports in Williamsburg, present, Mr. President and twelve other members. Mr. President left ye chair and Mr. Fitzhugh was called to ye chair for ye Evening. Mr. President and Mr Stuart agreeable to appointment of a former meeting exhibited their Declamations on given subjects. Petition of Mr. Parmelie for a Charter Party to institute a Branch of this Society at Cambridge in Massachusetts, granted: To be called Exaclov. Mr. Brown, Mr. Bickley, Mr Cabell appointed to examine exhibitions and report to next meeting. Adjourned till to-morrow evening. W. SHORT JUR. PREST. At a meeting convened on ye evening of ye 5th December, 1779. Mr. President leaving ye chair called Mr. Brown to ye same. Mr. President suggesting ye necessity of making some innovations in ye form of Charter Party, to introduce it properly and give it an extensive footing, in ye State of Massachusetts Bay, proposes some Page 234. amendments to ye same which being read in their proper places were accorded to. Resolved, that so much of Mr. Parmelie's petition as relates to ye establishment of a Phi: Society to be conducted in a less mysterious manner than the P B K be not agreed to as ye design appears to be incompatible with ye principles of this meeting. Ordered, however, that Mr. Parmelie be thanked for ye proof which he has given of his Zeal by openly comunicating his Sentiments to this Society. Mr. President and Mr. Cocke appointed to do the same. Adjournment took place. W. SHORT JR. PREST. At a meeting called by the President Decem: 9, '79. Mr. President leaving the chair, called Mr. Stuart to the same. The Clerk being absent Mr. Brent is appointed pro tempore. Whereas this Society is desirous that the P B K should be extended to each of the United States. Resolved, that a second Charter be granted to our Brother, Mr. Elisha Parmele for estab- lishing a meeting of the same in the College of New Haven in Connecticut, to be of the same Rank, to have the same Power, and to enjoy the same Privileges with that which he is empower'd to fix in the University of Cambridge. To be called the Zira. An adjournment took place. W. SHORT PREST. At a meeting in course Saturday the 11th December, 1779. Agreeable to usage a Commee. was formed, Mr Brent as chairman. Messrs. Ballindine and Roane delivered Declamations on the subject given at the late meeting, the same was argued and after some discussion the subject was posponed. Mr. Cocke excused for first non-attendance. Same for second non-attendance & not writing excused. Same for third non-attendance at third meeting fined. Mr. Beckley fined for once non- attendance. Mr. Fitzhugh's non-attendance noted. W. SHORT JR. PREST. The inclemency of the winter season and recess of the students and other members of the P B K having interrupted the regular meetings of this Society, a few of the members remaining in Wmsburg convened on Saturday the 4th March when a subject for Declamation on the same day se'ennight being agreed on a meet- Page 235. ing was called and held on Saturday the 11th March, being the day of meeting in course (as well as for this as other business). Pres't, Mr. President and six other members. Mr. Nivison and Mr Short delivered declamations on the question "Is a Public or Private Education More Advantageous". Mr. Cocke and Mr Stuart argued on the same question, and after discussion the same being fully investigated was closed. Ordered that a Charter party be granted to Jno. bEckley by the unanimous vote of this meeting to be denominated Hra, and established at Richmond. Mr Brown and Mr Short appointed to declaim. Mr Nevison and Mr Cocke to argue at next meeting. Question: "Had William the Norman a Right to Invade England". An adjournment took place. W. SHORT, Pres't. At a meeting of this Society Thursday the thirteenth of April, 1780. Present the President and seven members. Mr Hartwell Cocke being absent the litterary business was postponed. Messrs. Short and Joseph Cabell being proposed as worthy members of this Society were ballotted and received. Ordered that a copy of the Charter be drawn off immediately and sent to Mr. Beckley, together with a letter of thanks. The business of the eveing being finished an adjournment took place. At a meeting of this Society April 22nd, 1780. Present all members except Mr. Cocke & Mr. Ballindine. Mr. Brown and Mr. Short, according to a former order, delivered their declamations on the Question had Wm. the Norman a right to the Crown of Great Britain. Mr. Cocke being absent, Mr. Nevison delivered his Sentiments. According to order of last meeting a charter party, together with a letter of Thanks was sent to Mr. Beckley. That the business of this Society may be carried more regularly than of late, it is re- solved that in future every Member who is fined by this Society for Non-atendance & neglects offering the money to the Treasurer imediately, shall be obliged to pay an interest of 25 p. cent. monthly every such fine so long as he is in arrears. Mr. John Stuart and Mr. Theok. Fitzhugh appointed to declaim, Mr. Archd Stuart & Mr. Thos. Ballindine to argue. The Question, Whether the Execution of Charles the first was justifyable? An adjournment. W. SHORT, Pres't. Page 236. At a meeting of the Society the 18 of May, 1780. Capt. John Marshall being recommended as a gentleman who would make a worthy member of this Society was ballotted for & received. Messrs. Thos. Lee & Landon Cabell being also recommended as worthy a seat in this Society, were ballotted for & received. Mr. George Lee Turberville requesting a Charter to establish a branch of this Society in Westmoreland, it was unanimously agreed upon that his request be granted, and that the branch be denominated the 0. The business of the evening being finished an adjournment took place. At a meeting in course Saturday, May 21st, 1780. Mr. President leaving ye chair, called Mr. Brown to ye Same. Mr. John Stuart according to appointment delivered his Sentiments on ye execution of Charles ye 1st. Mr. Fitzhugh not being able to procure an author who has treated of this Subject said nothing on ye occasion. Mr. Ballindine being absent, mr. Archibald Stuart & gentlemen not interested on ye occasion argued ye same. Mr. Wm. Cabell & Mr. Peyton Short appointed to declaim ye Question whether any form of Government is more favourable to public virtue than a Commonwealth? Mr. Joseph Cabell and Mr. Marshall to argue ye same. An adjournment. W. SHORT, P. At a meeting in course Saturday, June ye 3rd, 1780. Mr. President leaving ye Chair called Mr. Fitzhugh to ye same. Mr. Wm. Cabell, according to order, delivered his declamation on ye Question given out. Mr. Peyton Short, being un- prepared, was silent on ye occasion. Mr. Marshall & gentlemen not immediately interested argued ye Question. Capt. Wm. Pierce being recommended as a worthy member of this Society, was ballotted for & received accordingly. The Treasurer agreeable to one of ye fundamental Laws of this Society, laid his accounts before ye same for an examination. Ordered that Messuirs John & Archibald [Stuart] do examine ye Treasurer's accounts by ye next meeting, when they shall make a report of ye same. Mr. Ballindine's excuse for his non-attendance at ye last meeting being deemed sufficient, he was accordingly excused. Mr. Peyton Short being called on to give his reasons for not de- Page 237. livering a declamation according to appointment gave such as were thought insufficient. Ordered that Mr. Washington and Mr. Peyton Short bring in declamations at ye ensuing meeting, ye Question whether ye rape of ye Sabine women was just. Mr. Lee & Mr. Landon Cabell to argue ye same. At a meeting on Course Saturday, June ye 17th, 1780. The President being absent ye Vice-President filled ye chair. Mr. Richard Land Lee being recommended as a Gentleman worthy a seat in this Society was ballotted for & received. The Vice president leaving ye chair call Mr. Wm Cabell to ye same. Mr. P. Short being absent, Mr Washington alone delivered a declamation on ye subject given out. Mr Lee, Mr Lan Cabell and Gentlemen not immediately interested, discussed ye same. Mr. Richard Lee & mr John Stuart appointed to bring in declamations, & Mr Wm Short & Mr Theok Fitzhugh to argue. At a meeting in course, July ye 1st, 1780. Mr Wm Madison & Mr John Swan being recommended as Gentlemen worthy of a seat in this Society, were ballotted for and received. The Vice President, leaving ye chair, called Mr. Brown to ye same. Mr Ricd B. Lee & Mr John Stuart, according to appointment, brought in declamations, ye Question, Whether Religion is necessary in Government. Mr Short & Fitzhugh being absent, it was not argued. Mr Nivison & Mr Spencer Roane appointed to declaim. Mr. Brent to argue. An adjournment. At a meeting of ye Society, July 29th, 1780. Mr. President, leaving ye chair, called Mr Wm Cabell to ye same. According to appointment, Messuirs Nivison & Roane delivered their declamations, ye Question, Whether in a civil War any person is justifiable in remaining Neuter. Mr. Brown & Mr Brent being unprepared, were silent, ordered that Mr John Stuart who was appointed one of ye Committee to examine ye Treasurer's accompts, is now absent, that Mr Richard Lee do supply his place, & that ye Committee shal, at ye ensuing meeting, make their report. Mr. Archd Stuart & Mr John Brown to declaim. Page 238. Mr. Daniel Carol Brent & Mr Thos. Ballindine to argue. At a meeting in course, August ye 12th, 1780. Conformable to Custom ye Committee was framed. Mr Roane, Chairman. Mr Brown and Mr Archibald Stuart, agreeable to order, delivered their Declamations. Ye Question, Whether Duelling ought to have toleration in this or any other free State. Mr. Brent and Mr. Ballendine argued ye same. The Committee to whom ye Treasurer's accompts were referred, have examined ye same & reported that there are L27.4.8 in ye Treasury L24.17.0 in arrears. Mr Wm Cabell & Mr Josh Cabell appointed to bring in declamations at ye ensuing meeting. Mr Bushrod Washington & Mr Thos. Lee to argue. An adjournment. At a meeting in course, August 27th, 1780. Both ye President & Vice President being indisposed, Mr. Brent was appointed. Agreeable to usage, a Committee was formed, Mr. Roane, Chairman. Mr Wm Cabell, according to appointment, delivered his declamation, ye Question, Whether all our affection and principles are not in some measure deducible from self Love, declaring ye Negative, Mr Joseph Cabell being absent, nothing was offered in ye affirmative. Mr. Washington reasoned extempory upon ye same, Mr. Thos. Lee, his antagonist, being also absent. Ordered that Mr. Landon Cabell & Mr Wm Pierce, bring in Declamations at ye ensuing Meeting. Mr. Richard B. Lee & Mr Wm. Madison to argue. An adjournment. At a meeting in course, September ye 12th, 1780. Agreeable to custom the Committee was formed, Mr Swan as Chairman. Mr. Pierce & Mr R. B. Lee being absent, ye Question, whether Poligamy is a dictate of Nature or not, was only handled by Mr. Landon Cabell & Mr Madison. Resolved, that Mr Wm Short & Mr Richard Lee do bring in Declamations, at ye celebration of ye Anniversary. Mr. Wm. Cabell being about to depart College, Mr. Daniel Carrol Brent is appointed to succeed him in his office as Treasurer. Ordered that the thanks of ye Society be given Mr. Cabell for ye faithful discharge of his office, & that Mr. Swan & Mr. Washington wait on him for that purpose as well as to receive the Books. Mr. Swan & Theok Fitzhugh to bring in Declamations at ye ensuing meeting. Mr. Short & Mr. Nivison to argue. Page 239. An adjournment. At a meeting in Course, September ye 23rd, 1780. Agreeable to custom ye Committee was formed. Mr. Brent as chairman. Mr Wm Short & Mr Theok Fitzhugh being absent, the Question, whether Avarice or Luxury is more beneficial to a Republic, was only handled by mr. Swan & Mr. Jno. Nivison. Mr. Thomas Cocke being proposed as a Gentleman worthy a seat in this Society, was ballotted for & received. Mr. Josh. Cabell fined 20 Dols for non-attendance on ye Evening he was appointed to declaim. Mr. Swan, Mr. Thos. Lee, Mr Washington, Mr. Madison & Mr. Nivison fined 15 Dollars each for senting themselves on Evenings when disengaged. Mr. A. Stuart & Mr. Brent to declaim, Mr. Roane & Mr. Peyton Short to argue at ye ensuing meeting. The business being finished, an adjournment took place. At a meeting in Course, October 6th, 1780. Agreeable to custom ye [committee] was formed, Mr. Rich'd B. Lee as Chairman. Mr. Stuart being indisposed, & mr Roane being absent, ye question, Whether Brutus was justifyable in killing Caesar, was handled by Mr Brent, Mr Short & other gentlemen not im- mediately interested in ye debate. Mr. Joseph Cabell & Mr Bushrod Washington to declaim. Mr. Thos. Lee & Mr. Landon Cabell to argue at ye ensuing meeting. An adjournment. At a meeting in course, October ye 22nd, 1780. The vice President being absent, Mr. Daniel Brent was appointed in his stead pro tempore. The vice president leaving ye Chair, called Mr Swan to ye same. Agreeable to appointment, mr. Joseph cabell and Mr. Bushrod Washington delivered their declamation, ye question, Whether a man in extreme want is justifiable in stealing from his Neighbour to relieve his present necessities? Mr. Thos. Lee, having obtained leave of absence, & Mr Landon Cabell being absent without leave, ye subject was not argued. Mr. Wm Madison & Mr Swan to bring in declamations at ye ensuing meeting. Mr. Thos. Cocke & Mr. John Stuart to argue. An adjourment was agreed on. At a meeting call'd on the 30th of Nov. The President and vice President being absent, Mr. Brent Vice President pro tempore Page 240. took the chair. The Clerk being absent, Mr. T. Lee appointed pro tempore. Mr. Stevens Thompson Mason being recommended as a gentleman worthy of a Seat in this Society, was balloted for and received. Mr. Fitzhugh and Mr. Landon Cabell were appointed to speak for a Supper at the Raughley on the night of the Anniversary. Adjourn'd to the Raleigh on Tuesday, 7 o'clock. At a meeting at the Raleigh on the 5th December, to celebrate the Anniversary of this Noble institution, were present Mr. Brent, Vice President, Mr. Roane, Mr. L. Cabell, Mr. Rd. Lee & Mr. Cocke. Mr. Brent, V. Pt. pro tempore took the chair, the clerk being absent, Mr. L. Cabell was appointed. The V. Pt. left the chair & called Mr. Roane to ye same. Mr. Rd. Lee, according to apointment, then proceeded to declaim on the progress of the arts & sciences. President Short, who was likewise to declaim on this nigiht, being absent & the business of the night being over, Mr. Brent returned to the chair, the remainder of the Evening was spent in sociability & mirth. Mr. John Stuart & Mr. Theok. Fitzhugh were both absent. An adjournment took place. 1781. On Saturday, the 6th of January, a meeting of P B K was called for the Purpose of Securing the Papers of the Society during the Confusion of the Times, & the present Dis- soltuion which threatens the University(1). ________________________________________________________________________ (1) When Mr. Jefferson became a member of the Board of Visitors and government, he caused the enactment of a statute, December 4, 1779, which reorganized the College. It did away with the Divinity chairs, and substituted the chairs of Law and Police, and Medicine. The Grammar School was abolished, and Modern Language took the place of the Ancient Languages. It recognized the Elective system by permitting the student to take his choice, within certain limits. The College was now frequently called the University, a title formally assumed in the caption of the faculty minutes, June 3, 1782. The following from the minutes of December 29, 1779, shows the character of the reorganization: "Decr 29th 1779. At a meeting of the President and Professors of Wm & Mary College, under a statute passed by the Visitors the fourth Day of December, 1779: Present. James Madison, President, & Professor of Natural Philosophy and Mathematics. George Wythe, Professor of Law and Police. James McClurg, Professor of Anatomy and Medicine. Robert Andrews, Professor Moral Philosophy, the Laws of Nature and of Nations, and of the Fine Arts. Page 241. The members who attended were William Short, Daniel C. Brent, Spencer Roane, Peyton Short, & Landon Cabell. They thinking it most advisable that the papers should not be removed, determined to deliver them sealed into the Hands of the College Steward, to remain with him until the desirable event of the Society's Resurrection. And this Deposit they make in the sure & certain Hope that the Fraternity will one day rise to Life everylasting and Glory immortal". [End of original record.] ________________________________________________________________________ Charles Bellini, Professor of Modern Languages. Resolved, That Mr. Andrews act as Clerk of the Society for this day. Resolved, that the Lectures in the different Schools shall commence for the ensuing year on the 17th of January. For the encouragment of Science: Resolved, that a student on paying annually one thousand pounds of Tobacco shall be entitled to attend any two of the following Professors, viz.: of Law and Police; of Natural Philosophy and Mathematics; of Moral Philosophy, the Laws of Nature & Nations, and of the Fine Arts, & that for fifteen hundred Pounds he shall be entitlted to attend the said three Profesors, the Fees to be paid at that Period of the Year when the courses of Lectures commence". In this last resolution is a distinct recognition of the elective system, now widely adopted. Four years before the opening of the University of Virginia Mr. Jefferson wrote to Francis Eppes that "at William and Mary College students are allowed to attend the schools of their choice and those branches of sciences which will be useful to them in the line of life they propose. The College was also the parent of the honor system. Judge Beverley Tucker claimed for William and Mary the credit of being the first institution to recognize that young men should not be spied on during examinations and other times. Was not the College the first also to create a chair of Modern Languages? The Grammar or Latin School, dis- continued by Jefferson, was re-established after a few years.