the immediate direction of General
Thayer. The general character and aim of the course are indicated by
the following quotation from the Instrument of Gift: 'The requisites
for admission to the school shall be of a high order, embracing such
studies, at least, as are specified in a paper to be hereto appended,
called 'Programme A,' bearing my signature, which programme shall be
regarded as an absolute minimum, and which may, in the discretion of
the Board of Overseers, created by the 5th article of this
Instrument, be extended, but not diminished or contracted in the least
degree.'

"'2. The course of study shall extend through at least two years, and
the duration of the course may be further extended so as to include
another half year, should three or more members of the Board of
Overseers judge, after a fair trial of the two years' course, such
further extension to be expedient. The studies and instruction of each
year shall extend continuously from September first to July first
following.'"

"Instruction was begun to a regular class of the engineering course,
September, 1871. During the preceding months of the year preparatory
instruction had been given. From 1871 to 1873, a preparatory course of
two years was contemplated, and during the year 1872-3 was maintained
in connection with the higher course. Meanwhile the detailed statement
of requisites for admission, styled 'Programme A,' was prepared by
Professor Fletcher, under supervision of General Thayer, and with the
aid of several professors eminent in the various subjects which it
includes. These requirements embrace all the branches of a common
school education, a full course of pure Mathematics and a thorough
course in Physics, including theoretical Chemistry and Astronomy. The
high standard thus established justified the following announcement in
the College 'Catalogue.' 'The department is to be essentially, though
not formally, post-graduate. The course of study is to be of the
highest order, passing beyond what is possible in institutions for
general culture, and is designed to prepare the capable and faithful
student for responsible positions and difficult service.' It was
intended that the Preparatory Department should provide instruction in
the subjects embraced in 'Programme A.'

"The decease of General Thayer in October, 1872, deprived the School
of his personal supervision. The general direction of its affairs then
devolved on the Board of Oversee