Yet, if Oxford is to continue to be the chief University of the world, it will only be by permission of the public. This is a truth which the pedants will only realize when it is too late. If every father who has a son whom he hopes will proceed to the University reads what I have set down here—reads it, and trusting nothing to the assertions of one man’s pen, makes further and more exhaustive inquiries—we shall very soon see the frantic capitulation of the Old Guard. I believe the dons and pedants of whom I have been writing to be honest men enough. They are sincere in their attitude, no doubt. It is comfortable to think that everything is for the best in the best of all possible Universities, but the obstinacy of a dozen mules in a mountain pass impedes the progress of an army, and because his stupidity is not the hybrid’s fault is no argument against his removal.
A certain number of Oxford dons are convinced that the Oxford system is without flaw.
The Historicides are the worst offenders, though some of their brethren who control the study of Pagan Theology and Philosophy are not far behind them. Both classes alike are convinced of their infallibility.
Yet let the educated public realize that—
No one who wishes to become a B.A. and M.A. of Oxford is forced to study
(a) English Composition or Literature;
(b) The History of the British Empire;
(c) The geography of the globe we inhabit;
(d) The scientific discoveries and inventions which have profoundly altered the conditions of modern life;