A debating society is at first somewhat of a disappointment.

You do not often find the youthful Demosthenes chewing his pebbles in the same room with you; or, even if you do, you will probably think the performance little to be admired.

As a general rule, the members speak shamefully ill.

The subjects of debate are heavy; and so are the fines.

The Ballot Question--oldest of dialectic nightmares--is often found astride of a somnolent sederunt.