rs constituted by his Instrument of
Gift and appointed by himself. At that time the Board consisted of
Rev. A. D. Smith, D.D., LL. D., president of Dartmouth College, Prof.
O. P. Hubbard of New Haven, formerly at Dartmouth College, Prof.
George L. Andrews, of the U. S. Military Academy, Gen. John C.
Palfrey, C. E., of Lowell, Massachusetts, and Prof. P. S. Michie, of
the U. S. Military Academy. The last three gentlemen had been officers
in the U. S. Corps of Engineers.

"At its first meeting in May, 1873, the Board decided that it would
not be expedient for some time to come to maintain such an auxiliary
as a Preparatory Department. It was found that the limited means
provided by the founder would allow the attainment of his high ideal
only by working within comparatively narrow limits. Without attempting
to cover too broad a field, a high standard and thorough work were to
be essential features of the course.

"The Board of Overseers holds a meeting at Dartmouth College annually,
when it examines carefully into the working of the school, its
financial condition, etc., and adopts any measures promising to effect
improvement and secure greater efficiency, according to the powers
conferred upon it by the Instrument of Gift. The Board also examines
the students and recommends such members of the first class as it
finds to be qualified, to the Trustees of Dartmouth College for the
degree of Civil Engineer.

"The first class which completed the two years' course graduated in
1873. The class of 1877 was the fifth sent out by the school. At that
time the whole number of graduates was thirteen. There had been,
besides, two who left for professional engagements after the first
year of study. The graduates have nearly all obtained honorable
positions in the line of the profession soon after graduation, with
fair prospects for distinction.

"The nature of the course is such that a large corps of instructors is
not required. Careful training and drill in essential and fundamental
branches is the aim. Considerable time is devoted to out-door practice
but without attempt to make experts in any direction. Accordingly,
temporary employment in a professional line is allowed at proper
times, such as will conduce to the student's improvement and be more
or less remunerative. Thus it is expected that the student will be
fitted to advance rapidly and successfully in any 'specialty' to which
he may subsequently devote his efforts.

"T