The Future of the Victoria University

Abstract

PROF. SCHUSTER (P. 319) does not challenge the accuracy of my statements and I have nothing to alter in them. I have enjoyed reading his playful comments, but I have no desire to enter upon a mere dialectic contest with him, especially if it is to be fought with dynamical metaphors. I only wish now to disavow the predilection for federal universities, which Prof. Schuster artfully attributes to me. I have certainly acquired belief in one existing federal university which includes Lancashire and Yorkshire, but if that “experiment” is to fail, I do not see that I should necessarily favour another of the same kind. I must therefore decline with thanks the consolation that is offered me in the contingent possibility of my being able to take part in a federal university for Yorkshire. The immediate need of those who are or may be charged with university organisation seems to me to be an authoritative and impartial pronouncement on the causes which are alleged to warrant the disruption of the Victoria University. This is what I await before agreeing to any fresh experiment.