testimonia'' /ifa/ TO W. H. VANDERSMISSEN Lecturer in German, University College, Toronto. (From Hon. Mr. Justice Falconbridge^ M.A.^ QC^ Gold Medallist in Modern Languages ., 1866.) Toronto, loth December, 1887. My Dear VanderSmissen, You will recollect that I was one of the graduating class of 1866, which was the first year of your connection with University College as lecturer on German. It gives me much pleasure to state that I derived the greatest benefit from your lectures and tuition. You always displayed the utmost interest in our work, and my experience was that you saw in advance where our difficulties lay, and explained them as we went along, without the necessity of our applying to you for the solution. Sincerely yours, W. G. FALCONBRIDGE. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A., University College. (From W. Macdonald^ M.A.y Si her Medallist in Modern Languages., 1867.) Toronto, Oct. 21st, 1887. Dear Sir, I have much pleasure, as one of the graduating class of 1868, in stating my opinion of the value of your work as lecturer in German. I cannot speak too highly of your kindly interest and endeavour towards the students of that time. The kindly interest which under a calm and undemonstrative manner was always manifested towards your then students was felt and appreciated by every one of them. In my own case there was nothing to induce any special regard or interest on your part, other than that arising from the relationship of teacher and student, and yet m my case, as in that of scores of others, the acquaintanceship formed in 'the lecture room was but the beginning ot a friend- ship which has endured unto this day. In other respects my knowledge of your work justifies me in saying with great confidence that you were both efficient and thorough, painstaking and successful. You have my very best wishes for your future success and advancement, to which, in my opinion, your work in the past, fruitful both of good educational results and of pleasant intercourse with your students, fairly entitles you. Yours truly, W. MACDONALD W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A., University College, Toronto. (From H. M. Deroche, fi. A,, Medallist in Modern Languages, 1868.) Napanee, Nov. nth, 1S87. W. H. Vandf.rSmissen, Esq., M. A., University College, Toronto : Dear Sir : 1 have much pleasure, as an old student of yours in German, m stating that I derived great benefit from your careful and assiduous instruction. To it I owe whatever acquaintance I have or had with the language and litera- ture of Germany. I always found you a painstaking, industrious and attentive teacher, taking great personal interest in your students and their progress, and feel certain that all your old pupils share my sentiments of personal regard, which you so thoroughly deserve. I trust that you may long continue to have the German Department of the I 'niversity, of which you have done so much to raise the standard, under your control. \ ours very truly, H. M. DEROCHE. (From John Galbraith, M. A., Professor 0/ Engineering., School of Practical Science., Toronto., First Class Honors in German, 1887.) School of Practical Science, Toronto, Nov. i, 1887. My Dear VanderSmissen: As a former student of yours for several years, I had an opportunity of be- coming acquainted with your high qualifications as a teacher of the German language and literature. You were painstaking and thorough in your work, and always ready to aflford students any desired information on difficult points. You produced the impression upon your students that you felt a lively interest in their success, a qualification very necessary in a good teacher. One could not but feel that you were a master in your subject. You possess not merely a minute knowledge of the details of the language, but your schol- arly training in both ancient and modern literature has given you a grasp of your subject possessed by few. There are not many who combine in themselves, as you do, a refined and educated taste in literary matieis with a thorough and accurate knowledge of linguistic details and of philological principles. Your work in the past entitles you to the foremost place in your chosen profession, and you have my best wishes for your future advancement. Yours very sincerely, J. GALBRAITH. (From R. E. Kingsford, M.A., LL.P., Medallist in Modern LanguageSy iS6g.) Toronto, Nov. 2, 1887. Dear VanderSmissen : It affords me very great pleasure to say that I was under your instruction in German for the four years of my academic course. Since then I have had many opportunities of judging your capacities in that direction. From my own knowledge and from the reputation you have always held among the graduates of my time and since, I am able to state^that I can con- scientiously bear testimony to your thorough scholarship, your helpfulness in teaching, and your interest in vour students while under your charge and in their subsequent career. You have been emphatically the right man in the right place and nothing would give me greater pleasure than to hear of iome substantial recognition of your long and excellent service. Believe me faithfully yours, R. E. KINGS FORD. (From the Rev. Prof. Scrimger^ M.A.^ Medallist in Modern Languages^ iS6g.) Montreal, Nov. 8, i8 7. As a former student under Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, I desire to bear testi- mony to the thoroughness and breadth of his scholarship, also to his character as a painstaking teacher, who ever showed a genuine interest in the progress of his students. I regard him as highly qualified to take a responsible position on the staff of the University. JOHN SCRIMGER, M. A., Professor of Hebrew and Greek, Presbyterian College, Montreal. (From Thomas Langton, M.A. i8yi.) My Dear VanderSmissen : In two years of my under-graduate course I attended your lectures in Ger- man, and almost all that I know o! that language was acquired in those two years. From what I saw of your teaching, I am convinced that your knowledge of the German language and its literature is both thorough and practical. You were always anxious to give instruction both in and out of the Lecture Room, and I am sure that in your hands i- Stude .t really desirous of learning would have exceptional opportunities of learning to speak, as well as to read and write German. Yours sincerely, THOMAS LANGTON. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq , M. A., University College, Toronto. (From I. B. McQuesten^ M.A.^ First-Class Honors in German ^ 1867.) Hamilton, Ont., Nov. 8, 1887. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A., University College, Toronto : Afy Dear Sir : It gives me very great pleasure to add my testimony to that of others, whose opinion ought to have deservedly great weight, as to your un- wearied eflforts and endeavor to impart a thorough knowledge of the work of your department to those under you. In my experience this did not apply to mere stated hours of lecture ; but to the time and labor taken from what would otherwise be your hours of leisure, the only record of which could be in the grateful remembrance of those who profited thereby. Believe me, most sincerely yours, I. B. McQUESTEN. (From J. H. Coyne, Esq., B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages, i8yo.) - ■■ - * St. Thomas, Aug. lo, 1887. My Dear VanderSmissen, -'"^ I have very much pleasure in bearing testimony to the great advan- tage derived by me during my Collegiate course from your instruction. As a student in the Honor course in German during the four years of my undergraduate life, I had to depend upon your lectures solely, never having had any other teacher in the language, either before or after entering college. Your lectures were both instructive and stimulating in my own case, and to fhem I was greatly indebted for whatever progress 1 was able to make in acquainting myself with the German language and literature, and in gaining the position in the class-lists to which I aspired. Yours sincerely, • JAMES H. COYNE. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A., • Toronto. (From C. Egerton Ryerson, B.A., Honors in Modern Languages, 1S70.) - ' -V Toronto, Oct. 27, 1887. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M. A., University College, Toronto : My Dear Sir : I had the privilege of attending your lectures on German at U diversity College from 1867 to 1870 in Pass and H onour work, and can cheer- fully testify that your lectures were invaluable, and exhibited not only high scholarship but a full appreciation and lucid explanation of the many difficul- ties that present themselves to all students of the German language. To this I may add that your diligence and the personal interest you took in the welfare and progress of your students added much to the benefits derived from your lectures. Believe me, yours faithfully, C. EGERTON RYERSON. (Frcm Hugh, Fletcher, B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages, iCyi.) Hopewell, Pictou Co., N.S., July 30, 1887. Dear Sir, It gives me very great pleasure to testify to the debt of gratitude I owe to you as German Lecturer in University College, Toronto, when I was a student. To this day I often think of your pleasant classes ; of the quiet, friendly and humorous way in which you pointed out our mistakes ; of the interest you scimed to take in our work and the time you were willing to give to every individual student who wished to learn. If one did not learn with you, it was his own fault, and not due to any want of earnestness or painstaking thoroughness on your part. To myself, it was not a task but a pleasure to attend the lectures on German ; and to your guidance and to the charms you showed us in the literature I owe my taste for the language, which I did not " cram " merely to pass or win examination marks. I need not speak of your personal popularity, for everybody knows that the students regarded you as their friend as well as professor, and still retain the affection for you which I myself feel. With best wishes, I am, Yours very truly, HUGH FLETCHER. W H. VanderSmissen, Esq., University College, Toronto, Ont. (From G. E. Casey ^ M.P.^ B.A.^ 1871.) FiNGAL, Ont., Nov. 16, 1887. My Dear VanderSmissen : 1 have great pleasure in testifying to the benefit I received, as an undergrad- uate, from your instructions in German. I was only able to pursue the study study for my two first years ; but even in that time I imbibed, under your in- fluence, enough of the language and spirit of German writers to afford me, then and since, much solid profit and enjoyment. You certainly inspired me, and I think the whole class, with a very real and lasting interest in, and enthusiasm for, the literature of the Fatherland. If others, like myself, have since failed to develop into ripe German scholars, if is assuredly owing to no lack on your part, either of ability or attention as an instructor. Hoping that many future undergraduates of Alma Mater may enjoy your assistance in the study of this noble literature, I remain, yours very truly, GEORGE E. CASEY. W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A. (From Wm. Williams^ B,A.^ Principal^ CoUingwood Collegiate Institute^ Medallist in Modern Languages^ ^^72.) COLLINGWOOD, ONT., NoV- 7, 1 887. I cannot deny myself the pleasure of giving expression to the kindly feel- ings which are associated with my recollections of Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen M.A., my German teacher in University College. Uuring my course it was my fortune to be placed under his tutorial care. To enter his class-room was always a delight. His pupils were ever received with courtesy and dismissed with the satisfaction of having received real instruction. His methods were so effective and his scholarship so thorough that I always found my difficulties solved with ease, clearness, and intelligence. Nor shall ! ever lose recollection of the careful attention he displayed and the lively interest he took in giving his pupils a full and accurate understanding of the beauties of the German language and literature, of which he himself was a perfect master. If any went to their examinations with unsolved difficulties or without a clear comprehen- sion of the author's meaning or an exact understanding of the intricacies of grammatical or sentential structure, the fault was none of his. One thing more I will add, and it is this : I can never forget the warm inter- est that Mr. VanderSmissen took in his pupils after they left the college walls and went out to do battle with the cold realities of life. Among others I owe him in this respect a debt greater than I can hope ever to be able to repay. WM. WILLIAMS, B. A. 2 in Principal, Collegiate Institute, CoUingwood. (From J. Douglas Christie, B.A., 1872, Principal Chatham Coll. Inst., late Modern Language Master at St. Catharines.) Collegiate Institute, Chatham, June 23, 1887. My Dear VanderSmissen, It gives me great pleasure to say that during my three years at University College you always took great interest in my progress. You ■were always able, and also willing and anxious, to explain difficulties arising in the work, not only those which I could find out myself, but also many more that I should, but for you, have left unnoticed. The difficulties and niceties of German prose you took great pains to shew me. Your rules and statements of principles are the best I have ever seen, and I have used them continually in my classes during my fifteen years of teaching German. In my translations from German to English, you always insisted on my giving you good English for good German. My prose must often have vexed you. Better from my own pupils has vexed me since. You always corrected all errors, and frequently re- wrote whole passages. Only a few days ago, I was looking at a selection from '' David Copperfield " thus treated by you. You always took deep interest in your students' work, and not only assisted us in class, but encouraged us to come to your private room, or to your residence. . I remain, yours very truly, J. DOUGLAS CHRISTIE (From y. H. Long, M.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages, 187J, Principal Peterborough Collegiate Institute.) - ■' The Collegiate Institute, Peterborough, Ont, July 28, 1887. I have great pleasure in bearing testimony to the excellence of Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A. , as lecturer in German in University College, Toronto. Taking, as I did, a Modern Language course, I had, while attending University College, ample opportunities of seeing and hearing Mr. VanderSmissen in his classes ; and I found him only too ready to do everything in his power to help the students in their German work. I may further say that Mr. VanderSmissen was most courteous and kindly in his bearing towards the students, and always exhibited great interest in their progress. J. H. LONG. (From Geo. E. Shaw, Esq., B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages, 1873 Modern Language Master, Toronto Collegiate Institute.) Toronto, Sept. 5, 1887. As an old pupil of Mr. VanderSmissen's, and from much subsequent association with him, I can bear testimony to his scholarship in German and general philology, and to his readiness and ability to impart information on these subjects to his students. I may also add that I hope he may long continue to preside over the German department in University College. GEO. E. SHAW, B.A., Modem Language Master, Toronto Collegiate Institute. (From L, E. EmbreCj B.A.^ Medallist in Modern Languages^ 1^75-, Principal Whitby Collegiate Institute.) Collegiate Institute, Whitby, August 4, 1887. I was a student in arts at University College, 1871-5, and studied German with Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A., taking honors in my last three years. I am not in a position to compare Mr. VanderSmissen's methods of instruc- tion with those of other German teachers, but I am pleased to say that I owe my knowledge of German to him, and am satisfied that my defects in the knowledge of the language are due to want of time on my own part and not to lack of interest on his. I always found Mr. VanderSmissen ready to do all in his power — by hints, the correction of exercises, &c. — to help me to acquire a practical knowledge of the German language. L. E. EMBREE, B.A., Principal, Collegiate Institute, Whitby. (From T. C. L. Armstrongs M.A., LL.B.^ Medallist in Modern Languages^ iSyj^ late Modem Language Master ^ Hamilton Collegiate Institute.) Toronto, Nov. 15th, 1887. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A.: Dear Sir: It gives me much pleasure to testify to the excellence of a re- spected teacher. I attended your lectures in German during the four years of my University course, and attached the greatest importance to the benefit to be derived from your instruction. I learned, especially in the later years of my course, to place in high estimation your knowledge of the idiomatic construc- tion of that language, and your scholarly appreciation of its literature. During my career as a High School Master, I attributed much of my success, such as 1 had, to the thorough grounding I had received under your tuition. I am, my dear sir, yours very sincerely, T. C. L. ARMSTRONG, M.A., LL.B. (From D. S. Pater son^ B.A.y Head Master^ Simcoe High School^ Gold Medal- hst in Modern Languages^ 1876.) I have great pleasure in bearing my testimony to the very general regard in which W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A., German Lecturer in University College, was, during my undergraduate course, held as a gentleman, a scholar and a teacher. I, in common with my fellow-students in the Department of Modern Lan- guages, was, during that four years' course, much impressed with the accuracy and breadth of his scholarship, the clearness and faithfulness of his teaching, and the patience and aiTability of his manner, all combining to make the work jn German not only profitable but also entertaining. The liberal classical and English education which Mr. VanderSmissen has received, I found, placed him at a great advantage, as compared with other specialists who had not enjoyed such a training. His digest of German grammar has been most helpful to me both as a student and as a teacher, presenting as it does a very complicated subject in clear out- lines and logical sequence. I am only discharging a debt of gratitude when I add that Mr. Vander- Smissen was always most faithful and painstaking in the correction and criticism of our numerous exercises in German Prose Compositon, which entailed upon him considerable labor after class-hours. In fine, my work in the German Room is among my most pleasant reminiscences of college life. D. S. PATERSON, B.A., r V ;:- . _^ ^. '• Gold Medallist in Modern Languages of 1876. (From W. G. Eakins, M.A., Medallist in Modern Languages^ 1876.) TORONTCS Nov. 27, 1887, I have much pleasure in stating that, as an honor man in Modern Languages during my course of study at University College, I derived much benefit from the lectures of Mr. W. H, VanderSmissen, Lecturer in German. Mr. Vander- Smissen showed himself at all times to be a thorough German scholar, being not only perfectly at home in the use of the language, but having a most exten- sive knowledge of the best German literature. He always displayed a warm interest in the progress of the class of which I was a member, and was ever ready and anxious to assist us in every way in his power. He took great pains to ground us thoroughly in German prose composition, making the correction of our work in that branch his special care. His lectures were among the most instructive of all those which I attended during my honor course. W. G. EAKINS, M.A. (From M. S. Clark, B.A., i8y6. Head Master, Georgetown High School.) I take oleasure in stating that, during my course of study at Toronto Univer- sity, I attended the German classes of Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, and formed a high opinion of his ability to make the study of German interesting and com- paratively easy to the student. His explanations were given where needed, were brief and clear, and his rules so simple and easily applied that one readily grasped them and never forgot them. I have always based my instructions to my pupils on what I learned at college, and regard it as a great advantage that my pupils now have in their hands editions of the German texts, which Mr. VanderSmissen has specially prepared for High School work. I am pleased to be able to say that I have frequently talked with Uni- versity graduates in regard to Mr. VanderSmissen's scholarship, and have always found that, in the department of Modem Philology, he was regarded as one who had read widely and carefully, had thoroughly mastered his subject, and was eminently qualified for the duties of his position. A careful examina- tion of his High School Readers has convinced me that Mr. VanderSmissen is fully abreast with the latest results of philological research, holds enlightened and liberal views on methods of teachmg, and well deserves the high estima- tion in which, as a scholar, he is held by all his old students. M. S. CLARK, B.A., Head Master, High School, Georgetown, Ont. Georgetown, Nov. 30, 1877. 9i From Charles Robertson^ Esq.^ M.A., Medallist in Modern Languages^ 1876, Modern Language M aster ^ Hc.mil ton Coll. Inst.) It affords me much pleasure to give expression to the high opinion I enter- tain of W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A., as Lecturer in German. While I as an undergraduate was in attendance at University College, I found him to take a deep interest in the progress of his students, and so pains- taking in his work that I was frequently astonished at the care and promptness with which he read and corrected the numerous written exercises of his students. To the student consulting him in regard to any difficulties, he was always at very great pains to remove these by giving clear and satisfactory explana- tions. From the benefits I derived from his instructions, and from all that I as a student knew of him, I regard Mr. VanderSmissen as an eminently competent Lecturer in German. CHAS. ROBERTSON, M.A., Modem Language Master. Collegiate Institute, Hamilton, Sept. 10, 1887. (From E. B. Brown., B.A.^ Gold Medallist in Modern Languages., 1^77') Toronto, 3rd Nov., 1887. My Dear VanderSmissen : The Department of Modern Languages in the University and College was in my student days by no means what it is now. I believe it was not in those days (1877 and previous years) expected of the Lecturer in German to do more than instruct in grammar and composition and read through the prescribed text-books. In my fourth year you gave us a course of lectures on German Philology, and while reading with you from the authors prescribed we got the benefit of your wide reading and knowledge of the language and literature. The men of my year looked upon you as a man of scholarly attainments and as a faithful and enthusiastic teacher, and this view, after some further experi- ence as a student of Philology and Literature, and association with yourself as an examiner, I adhere to. It would not become me to speak more definitely of your attainments and scholarship, but I may add that in my judgment you are peculiarly well quali- fied as a Professor from a certain clear-headed and lucid manner of explana- tion which is yours, and which seems to me invaluable. Believe me, faithfully yours, ED\YARD B. BROWN. (From W. N. Ponton., Esq., M.A., Medallist in Modem Languages^ ^^77-) Belleville, July, 1887. I have pleasure in testifying to the value of the instruction received from Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, Lecturer in German, during ijiy undergraduate course at University College. I recall particularly the ability and painstaking with which we were taught German prose composition, the neatness of the translations of involved passages, and the clearness of the lectures on com- parative philology. Mr. VanderSmissen was always accessible to the enquirer and assiduous in furthering the progress of the earnest student in his depart- ment. W. N. PONTON. 10 (From D. R. Keys^ B.A., Lecturer on English at University College^ Medallist in Modern Languages^ i8y8.) University College, Toronto, June 8, 1887. • I attended the lectures of Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen on German during the years 1874-8, and have been associated with him for the last five sessions as lecturer in the Modem Language department of University College. During all this time I have found Mr. VanderSmissen ever ready to contribute freely from his great stores of learning for the benefit of others. In his lectures Mr. VanderSmissen unites scholarly accuracy in details with a wide literary sympathy and a most painstaking assiduity in the correc- tion of prose exercises, the value of which I only appreciated fully during my post-graduate studies in a German university. There, too, I was able to com- pare his methods of teaching v^ith those of the most renowned university in Germany ; and the comparison was not to his disadvantage. On another matter it specially becomes all graduates in Modern Languages to express their indebtedness to the Lecturer in German. To him we owe it principally that the Modern Language department has been raised to its pre- sent high standard — a standard little if at all inferior to that of a German university. By his untiring efforts as teacher, as examiner, as author, and more especially as member of the various committees for the revision of the curriculum, ^fr. VanderSmissen has acccomplished a task which he began unaided, but ended with men at his side who, owing their training to him, were his grateful assistants in the work. DAVID R. KEYS, B.A., Lecturer on English and Italian, University College, Toronto. (From James IV. Bell^ Ph.D. Lips., Professor of History and Political Economy in the University of Colorado.) Boulder, Colorado, June 20, 1887. When I entered College, my preparation in German, as in many other branches, was defective, so that I can appreciate all the more the pro- gress I made under Mr. VanderSmissen's care. His teaching I found pains- taking and scholarly ; groiftiding well in the principles and laying well the foundation for future scholarship, rather than veneering for present show. As a consequence of this method, I had, on graduating, a thorough knowledge of my Grammar and of the outlines of the literature, having carefully read the German masterpieces — not mere newspaper selections and scraps containing the latest slang —and so was able to follow the lectures in the University of Leipzig with pleasure and profit a few weeks after my arrival there. I have a vivid recollection of frequently spending, especially during my fourth year, a half-hour or so in the Library with him, " out of school hours," going over my German Prose Composition papers, and I know that this privi- lege was not accorded to me alone. I wish to thank Mr. VanderSmissen for the interest he has taken in me and my work. JAMES W. BELL. u (From James Chisholm^ B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages^ ^^yg.) Hamilton, July 26, 1887. I have the honor to state that on my matriculation in Toronto University in 1874 I was totally ignorant of the German language ; that I found Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, then German lecturer, painstaking and always ready to assist me in my difficulties ; that to such assistance so cheerfully given, together with close attention on my own part, I owe whatever measure of success attended my study of the German language. JAS. CHISHOLM, B.A. (From D. K. Clark ^ B.A.^ 1^7 9i Modern Language Master, Woodstock College.) Woodstock College, Nov. 22, 1887. I attended Mr. VanderSmissen's lectures in German during my University course, and am pleased to testify to his efficiency as a Lecturer. His thorough acquaintance with both German and English Janguage and literature fit him to be an eminently successful instructor. He has the special advantage of being very concise aud clear in his definitions and explanations, and, whether in the class-room or in private consultation, I have always found him ready and cap- able of giving the fullest and most satisfactory assistance. D. K. CLARKE, B.A. (From W. H. Fraser^ B.A., Lecturer on Italian and Spanish, University College, late French and Gerjnan Master, Upper Canada College, Gold Medallist in Modern Languages, 1880.) Upper Canada College, June 8, 1887. It gives me pleasure to state that I attended the German classes of Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen in University College, during the four sessions of my undergraduate course. At that time I considered his lectures so valuable to me that I rarely lost an opportunity of being present, and my subsequent experience has but heightened my appreciation of the instruction imparted by him. His methods of teaching evinced at once the extensive and accurate knowledge of the ripe scholar and the directness and judgment of the practised teacher, while his energy and assiduity in supervising and correctmg the work done by his students individually is beyond all praise. Personally I feel myself greatly indebted to Mr. VanderSmissen for encouragement given on many occasions, and for direction of my studies beyond the strict requirements of his duties as a lecturer. In short, I may say that I never had the advantage of attending the classes of any professor who was more ready to direct my work or who took a more lively interest in myself and my studies. I feel sure that this was abo the sentiment of the honour men of the College in generaU I believe also that the labours of Mr. VanderSmissen from time to time in connection with the curriculum of study in Modern Languages are worthy of high praise. There is no doubt that the rank which these studies now occupy in University College, which in this respect will compare favourably with any college in America, is very largely owing to his wise direction. W. H. FRASER. 12 (From G. F. Lawson^ B.A., Honors in Modem Languages^ iSSo, Modern Language Master, Ingersoll High School. ) This is to certify that Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A., is in my opinion well qualified in every respect for the position he has so long and ably held as German lecturer in University College. He is not only proficient in his own subject, but he is also a gentieman of very high scholarly attainments. I have reason to be thankful for the interest he displayed in his work, and in his pupils' advancement during my four years at University College. His system of exactness and thoroughness has helped me very much in my career as a teacher. GEO. F. LAWSON, B.A. Ingersoll, Nov. 14, 1887. (From T. H. Redditt, B.A., iS.^Oy Head Master, Richmond Hill High School.) Richmond Hill, Nov. nth, 1887. Dear Sir : If in connection with my course at University College there is one thing pre- eminently fresh in my mind, it is the recollection of the lectures on German that I attended. It mattered not how great or how many might be the diffi- culties thrown up in my work, for I was always sure to have them explained by you, and that with a fulness of scholarship and clearness of expression that left nothing to be desired. I have often taken pleasure in telling my pupils that the study of German would be certain to be most satisfactory, because the instruction that they re- ceived in the High School would be carried on by Mr. VanderSmissen at University College, with a ripeness of learning and an attentive zeal that must lead to a mastery of a difficult language, if anything could. In common with the men of my year, I shall never cease to feel grateful for the unflagging care and industry with which you always aided us in our work. In my whole course, I missed only two or three lectures in German, and then the fault was my own. Nor did we find your interest bounded by the walls of the lecture room, for at all times you were, as it now appears to me, lavish of your time when your aid was sought. If there is one subject that I teach with more pleasure than all others, it is German. Competent authorities have given me high praise for success in that department. The solid foundation laid by your lectures has ever stood by me, and that I have been not unsuccessful in my profession, I owe largely to you. Bearing this testimony with the utmost pleasure and cause, I am, believe me, yours respectfully, T. H. REDDITT. W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A., Toronto. (From W. G. Shepherd., B.A., Honors in Modern Languages., 1881, Modern Language M aster , St. Thomas Collegiate Institute,) As a former student under Mr. W. H. VauderSmissen, M.A., Lecturer in Get' man at University College, Toronto, it affords me pleasure to testify to his tho- rough knowledge of German, his uniform courtesy, and his untiring zeal in aid- ing his students to understand the language and appreciate the beauties of its literature. W. G. SHEPHERD, B.A., Modern Language Master, St. Thomas, Ont., Nov. 14, 1887. Collegiate Institute, St. Thomas. 13 (From Chas. J. Mickle^ B.A.^ First Class Honors in Germany 1881.) Chesley, June, 22, iSSy. Dear Sir — It gives me great pleasure to say respecting your method of instruction in German, that I have always entertained an appreciative memory of your invaluable aid as a lecturer. You always displayed a conscientious activity in the discharge ol your duties ; in the lecture room I thought you particularly painstaking and thorough in imparting a knowledge of, and interest in, your subject ; at the end of four years I noted the fact that all difficulties both in language and ideas occurring in the appointed work had been pointed out by you and removed, and as all the work of the several years was thus discussed and mastered in the lecture room, I thought very highly of your method. I further found you most assiduous in overlooking the progress made by the individual scholar ; I still have a pile of German compositions which have been carefully corrected and annotated, bearing ample evidence to the untiring efforts made apart from the class room to advance your scholars. I always felt that you had a personal interest in us and our work ; there was no other class for which I felt so urgent a necessity to make suitable pre- paration as yours. We were sometimes in default ; you, never. Yours faithfully, C. J. MICKLE. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., Toronto. {From R. A. Barron, B^., 1881, Headmaster, Port Dover High School.) Port Dover, Nov. 16, 1887. I have pleasure in certifying that I attended Mr. VanderSmissen's lectures in German in University College, Toronto, during my third and fouith years (1879-8 1 )• I can cheerfully testify to his ability as a teacher and the kindly interest he seemed to take in his pupils in general. So far as I recollect no difficulties occurred in our class-work that he was not perfectly able and quite as willing to elucidate. His instructions have also been very valuable to me as a teacher. Since graduating I have prepared pupils in German for all grades from Third Class Teachers up to First Class University Honors, and I believe that the success that has attended my own labors is largely due to the efficiency of the instruction received from him, R. A. BARRON, Head Master, High School, Port J over. (From L. C. Corbet t, B.A., Honors in Modern Languages, 1882, Head Master, Arnprior High School.) Arnprior High School, Nov. 12, 1887. Some years ago, when a student in University College, Toronto, I had the honor of studying German under the popular and scholarly German Lecturer, W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A. Mr. VanderSmissen's lectures, which were characterized by marked ability, broad scholarship, clearness and fulness, were 14 much appreciated by the members of the class, who always entered the lecture room expecting to learn something not to be found in the text books, and were rarely disappointed. I always found Mr. VanderSmissen kind and courteous, ever ready to assist and encourage me in my studies. If I myself have since had any success in teaching, I feel that it has been chiefly owing to the training received at the hands of Mr. VanderSmissen and his co-workers in University College. L. C. CORBETT, Head Master. (From Henry J. Wright^ B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages^ 1882.) During my college course I punctually attended Mr. VanderSmissen's lec- tures in German. Possessing as I did no knowledge of German previous to my entrance into the second year, I was indebted to him for my instruction in the rudiments of the language at a time when the rest of the class were con- siderably in advance of me. I found his lectures of the greatest benefit and Mr. VanderSmissen himself particularly attentive and painstaking with me and with all members of the class. From the commencement of my course till its close he was ever most assiduous in his duties, and most careful of the interests and progress of his pup'.ls. In fact I cannot speak too highly of his ability and efficiency as German Lecturer in my time, feeling as I do that I owe to his instruction whatever acquaintance I may have made with the German language and literature. HENRY J. WRIGHT, B.A. (From E. F. Gunther, B. A., Medallisi n Modern Languages^ 1882.) 35 Adelaide Street East, Toronto, Nov. 3, 1887. Dear Mr. VanderSmissen : When a student at University College, I formed a very high opinion of your scholarship in the department of study over which you presided. I was per- suaded that you had not only the necessary ability to teach the language, but possessed also a thorough and scholarly acquaintance with the German lan- guage as regards its formation, histor>', and literature, those branches in fact which should form the more special subjects of study at a University. I al- ways found you most attentive to the work of your classes, and anxious to afford to your students every assistance in your power. I have always hoped that the department of German would at an early date be placed on an equality with other branches taught in University College, and I may add that I hope that you may long remain at the head of a depart- ment for which you are so well qualified. Believe me, yours truly, ERNEST F. GUNTHER. 15 (From D. J. G. IVishart, B.A,, M.D., Honors in German, 1882.) 30 Carlton Street, Oct. 20th, 1887. Dear Mr. VanderSmissen, As one who enjoyed the privilege of attending your lectures for four years — 1878-1882 — permit me to testify to your unfailing courtesy ; to the care- ful and thorough manner in v/hich you did your work in the class-room ; and to the high esteem in which you were held personally by the class. While the lazy and inattentive student found little sympathy at your hands, the one who was anxious and willing to learn could always count upon receiving every aid and assistance from you, so far as lay in your, power to give them. It would give me the utmost satisfaction to hear of your advancement, knowing how eminently fitted you are for the work of your department. I have' the honour to be. Yours very sincerely, D. J. GIBB VVISHART, M.D. {From John Squair, B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Languages, i88j ; Lecturer in French, University College.) University College, Toronto, June 8th, 1887. During the whole of my undergraduate course I was a regular member of Mr. W. H. Vander>>missen's German classes in University College, and I cheer- fully bear testimony to the fact that the instruction received in those classes has beer and continues to be of very great value to me. Mr, VanderSmissen is peculiarly well fitted to give instruction in German. Gifted with a keen mind, well trained by u. long course of study in both the ancient and modern languages, he was always able to give us help in the solu- tion of our difficulties. 1 think I never approached him with a passage requiring explanation that I did not receive satisfaction. But his services in the important department of German Prose afforded the most valuable assistance I received in linguistic study as a student of Uni- versity College. It would not be easy to find a man whose knowledge of English and German is so exact as that of Mr. VanderSmissen, and in the difficult task of rendering English into German that knowledge was always iX my disposal. During the four years of my college course he corrected a very large number of exercises for me with laborious and conscientious care. J. SQUAIR, Lecturer in French, University College. (From R. B aimer, B. A., Medallist in Modern Languages, i88j, Modern Language Master, Kingston Collegiate Institute.) As his pupil for four years in University College, it is with pleas -re that I testify to the scholarship, uniform courtesy, and patience of Mr. VanderSmis- sen in his capacity of German instructor. Most especially am I grateful for his assistance in German prose. In that most monotonous of tasks, correcting exercises, he was always unsparing of pains. ROBERT BALMER, B. A., 1883, Modem Language Master, Collegiate Institute. Kingston, Ont., Dec. 1887. 16 (From E. J. Mclntyre, B.A., Honors in Modern Languages, i88S, Modern Language Master, Collegiate Institute, St. Catharines.) St. Catharines, Nov. 29, 1887. I am happy to certify that I have a very high opinion of Mr. VanderSmissen as a gentleman of natural ability and scholarly attainments. In his work as Lecturer in German in University College, I know him to be very thorough and painstaking, willing at all times to give assistance to an anxious student, and his interest in the work and progress of his former pupils he continues in his honorable position as president of the Modern Language Association of On- tario. Mr. VanderSmissen has edited several German text-books, which, for accur- acy of scholarship and careful attention to the wants of teachers and pupils, are not surpassed by any on the curriculum. They testify to the mastery which Mr. VanderSmissen by years of study and practice has obtained over the Ger- man Language. E. J. McINTYRE, B.A., Modern Language Master, Collegiate Institute. (From A. W. Wright, B.A., Honors in Modern Languages, i88j, Modern Language Master, Gait Collegiate Jjistitute.) This is to certify that all the instruction in German I ever received from a teacher I owe to W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A. In the lecture room he showed himself to be, not only a thorough master of German, but also, inci- dentally, a sound scholar in languages in general. When reading together, he almost invariably knew before we asked him where our difficulties lay, and after his explanations we had but few questions to ask. His remarks on ob- scure points were always clear, honest and in every way satisfactory. His renderings were such as experience has shown me to be the right kind for class translation — as literal as the exigencies of good English will allow. He paid far more attention to the thought of the original than to the elegance of the translation, evidently preferring accuracy to glibness. In my teaching I keep his example before my mind's eye in this respect. He also took great pains with our exercises in German composition, for which I am especially grateful, as being the corner-stone of any success I have in teaching German. ARTHUR W. WRIGHT, B.A. Modern Language Master, Gait Collegiate Institute. Gait, Nov. II, 1807. {From L. H. Alexander, B. A. Honors in Modern Languages, 188^, Modern Language Master, Owen Sound Collegiate Institute.) Owen Sound Collegiate Institute, Owen Sound, Ont., Dec. 3rd, 1887. I take great pleasure in stating that I place a high estimate on Prof. W. H. VanderSmissen's German scholarship, and ability as German Lecturer. During my undergraduate course in University College, I noted particularly 17 Mr. VanderSmissen's careful supervision of the work of his students, individ- ually ; and to such faithful attention to his duties, I personally owe much. Also, since entering on professional life, I have used his German texts with a keen appreciation of the accuracy ,and appropriateness of his annotations. They are admirably adapted to the status of High School students in German. L. H. ALEXANDER, Master in Modem Languages, Owen Sound Collegiate Institute. (From W. Harley Smithy B.A., Gold Medallist in Modern Langua^es^ 1884.) Toronto, July 26, 1887. I hereby bear testimony as to the efficient work done by Mr. Vander- Smissen as German lecturer during my undergraduate course from 1880 to 1884. Not only were the hours spent in the Lecture Room profitable, but much additional time was devoted by our teacher to the interests of the student. W. HARLEY SMITH. (From T. C. Robinette^ B.A., Medallist in Modern Languages^ 1884.) Toronto, Nov. id, 1887. W. H. VanderSmissen, Esq., M.A.: My dear Sir : I was a student of the German language at University Col- lege during the years i fciSo to 1 884 inclusive . Previous to my entering the U ni- versity, I had not contemplated taking the Modern Language course, and so had no preparation whatever at school in German, but, after having been under your tuition lor four years, I was enabled to secure first-class honors in German at my graduation. As a student I always admired your scholarship, not only in German, but in the other departments of the Arts Course. You were ever watchful of the interests of your students, and endeavored to secure the highest attainment on their part by exacting from them the most thorough knowledge of the whole course in German. *I have always considered you most highly qualified for the honorable position you have so long held, and as a graduate I can only say that I hope your alma mater will long claim your services, if not in your present sphere, then in a higher one, where you can best make use of the knowledge and experience acquired by years of devotion to your profession. Yours sincerely, T. C. ROBINETTE. (From A. MacMeckan, B. A., 1884^ Fellow in German^ Johns Hopkins Univer- sity^ late Modem Language Master, Gait Collegiate Institute.) Baltimore, Nov. 21st, 1887. As a former student of German under Mr. VanderSmissen, I have much pleasure in testifying to his abilities as a teacher of his subject. In his knowledge of German on the practical side, he enjoys the incalculable advantage of its being his native tongue, and, as a critical student of both language and litera- 18 ture, he is painstaking, accurate and thorough. His reading is very wide and varied, both in his department and out of it. The best evidences of his scholarship, are saen in his editions of German classics, which have received the highest praise from American scholars. In High School work I have found his " Grimm's Marchen " very useful for scho- lars of all grades. I would add that during three years of personal intercourse with Mr. VanderSmissen, as my professor, I invariably found him courteous and ready to do all in his power to help me in my work. ARCH. MacMECHAN, Fellow in German, J. H. U. (From John H. Cameron^ B.A., late Fellow in Modern Languages, University Col lege J Medallist in Modern Languages, i88^.) University College, Toronto, June 8, 1887. Throughout my acquaintance with Mr. VanderSmissen, as student and as fellow, I have found him not only equally well acquainted with the idio- matic difficulties of English and German, and able to give his classes entirely satisfactory solutions of any difficulties that presented themselves, but also most willing to take pains with any student who applied to him for assistance in his work. In the elucidation of textual obscurities, and in the correction of exercises, I have received great benefit from his instructions ; and all has been so freely tendered that in truth I have always felt that the measure of my gain from his teaching was fixed only by my own eagerness to learn. This is especially true of the work I have done under him since graduation. He has always been ready with suggestions for my advantage and with the most valuable help in anything I undertook. JOHN H. CAMERON. {From J. G. Holmes, B.A., Honors in Modern Languages, iSSj.) : I regard Mr. VanderSmissen as one of the most interesting and instructive lecturers I listened to during my college course of four years. During all that time I was a member of his class, and I believe that his acquaintance, not alone with German, but with the other Modem Languages, is of the very widest char- acter. His translations were always in the purest and most choice English, and his quotations from our own authors were so many and apt that they lent a pecuHar charm to his lectures. I am of opinion that his knowledge of German literature and etymology is far beyond that of many who have written on those subjects, and his commentaries on " Faust" were more full and complete than anything I have yet met with. To his method of teaching I owe no small part of my college training, as he always aimed at directing our reading, rather than simply explaining idioms and difficulties. 19 As Librarian I ever found him most kind and obliging, and willing to take any trouble to give information. His advice as to the beit books was freely given, and I always found it correct and helpful. I am happy to be able to return, to a small extent, the many favors I received from him, in assistance in my leading, often given outside the regular lecture hours, and many times, I feel, at inconvenience to himself. . J. G. HOLMES, B.A. Toronto, 8th Nov. 1S87. Toronto, Nov. 8, 1887. {From the Same.) Dear Mr. VanderSmissen : I send you a few lines enclosed, but I can assure you they do not express at all the warm gratitude I feel towards you, for the many favors and the good advice I received from you during my college days, but all I have said I feel to be the truth, and I said the same both while at college and since, whenever your name was mentioned to me. Yours ever respectfully, J. G. HOLMES. (From Ckas. Whethamy M.A., French and German Master ^ Upper Canada College; late Fellow in Modern Languages at University College^ TorontOj and at Johns Hopkins University.) Toronto, June 11, 1887. As student and fellow in Modern Languages in University College I have had the best possible opportunities of becoming acquainted with Mr. Vander- Smissen, his scholarship and his methods. I have no hesitation in saying that few teachers of German are so thoroughly equipped for University work as Mr. Vandv'irSmissen. In addition to a very intimate acquaintance with the English as well as the German language and literature he has what is hardly less necessary for advanced work — a comprehensive knowledge of several more or less strictly cognate languages. The most difficult task of the teacher of any language is perhaps to make the work in Prose Composition thoroughly attractive and interesting to the student. In the correction of my Prose exercises — which I often handed in in very unreasonable quantities — Mr. VanderSmissen always displayed a good- natured patience and a painstaking conscientious accuracy which were to me a never-failing source of encouragement. I am glad to have an opportunity here to acknowledge my many obliga- tions to Mr. VanderSmissen, and may add in simple justice to an honored teacher that as student or fellow I have never stood in need of assistance without finding Mr. VanderSmissen ready to render it cheerfully and satisfactorily. CHAS. WHETHAM. 20 (From A. F. Chamberlain^ 5^., First Class in German^ i886.) '' : 34 Arthur St., Toronto, July 30, 1887. As a regular attendant for four years upon the lectures delivered by Mr. W. H. VanderSmissen, M.A., in the Department of German at University College, I can bear testimony to their high and scholarly character, as well as to the energy and diligence displayed therein. Mr. VanderSmissen has always taken as great an interest in me personally as regards my progress as a student (and in the case of the other students as well) as could reasonably be expected. Whenever I met with any difficulty in my work I always found him willing and able to solve it in a prompt and satisfactory manner. I can testify to the great benefit derived by me from Mr. VanderSmissen's lectures, not a little of which is owing to the fact that besides his scholarship in German he has a most thorough knowledge of English, so necessary to a successful teacher of languages. To show the interest taken by Mr. VanderSmissen in his pupils and the energy displayed by him I need only refer to his lectures on German Prose, that most important branch of our study. In revising and correcting our exercises, as well as in the lecture-room, he displayed a diligence and assiduity that cannot be too highly praised, besides convincing us of his thorough grasp of his subject and his great ability to teach it. A. F. CHAMBERLAIN, B.A. (From Miss Eliza B aimer ^ B. A.^ Honors in Modern Languages^ 1886.) Brantford Ladies' College, Nov. loth, 1887. Two years of regular attendance on Mr. VanderSmissen's lectures in Univer- sity College qualify me to bear testimony to the fact that his known high scholarship is accompanied by a readiness to assist in the progress of his pupils. More than once the recipient of his friendly advice, I found in him, moreover, a willingness to further our aims by practical help. He showed a desire to lighten and simplify the student's labour, by placing before us in sysi^ematic form the results of his exhaustive study of our more difficult authors : and in the German Prose classes he iepeatedly proffered additional help and guidance in any effort we might make in German Composition. On the occasions when I availed myself of his kindness in this respect, it was to find him cheerfully giving up time and convenience to attend to this self-imposed work. ELIZA BALMER. THK COHP, CLARK COMPAKT, LIMITID, PRlKTERS, COIiBORMK 81 REST, TORONTO.