The ACADEMIC EXERCISES of the Cadets are not devoid of interest even to those who are attracted to the spot by the glittering displays of military life; while to those interested in the progress of education, the peculiarities of the system pursued at West Point seldom fails to increase their belief, that the method here followed might be more generally introduced into the great American collegiate system. The Corps of Cadets, in accordance with the usual custom, is divided into four classes, and the course of study extends through four years in duration. The classes are numbered inversely according to their entrance into the Academy, as the FIRST, SECOND, THIRD, and FOURTH Classes, corresponding to the Senior, Junior, Sophomore, and Freshman Classes in other institutions. Each class is divided into convenient sections of from twelve to fifteen Cadets, for instruction in its special branches of study, the first Cadet on each section roll being its squad-marcher, and being responsible for its punctual attendance and deportment. The recitation hours are sounded on a bugle, when the sections for the hour are formed at the Barracks, their rolls are called, and they are marched to the Recitation-rooms by their several squad-marchers. The instructor is there waiting their attendance, and after receiving the squad-marcher's report of the absentees, he sends three or more Cadets to the black-board, to discuss the propositions he announces to each; for which purpose they proceed to place their diagrams or analyses on the board. Another is called up on the floor and questioned on the lesson for the day, until one of those at the board is ready. The latter being called on, first enunciates the proposition to be discussed, then gives a condensed analysis of how it should be solved, and then gives the full discussion, delineation, or demonstration with reference to his diagram or analysis. Last of all, and reaching the termination of his subject, the instructor proceeds to question him on the parts slighted or omitted, and upon topics connected with the subject-matter under consideration. It will be seen that the recitation proceeds upon the supposition that the Cadet understands his lesson beforehand, and that the instructor's province is to make sure of the Cadet's thorough and accurate knowledge; to amplify his conceptions, and supply his deficiencies, rather than teach him the subject of the lesson. He also enforces that orderly and lucid exposition and arrangement of the matter, which carries the conviction that the Cadet not only knows his topic, but is able to communicate it to others. He requires accuracy of language, the observance of certain recitation forms, and proprieties in decorum, to a degree far higher than is usually demanded in other institutions. Three sides of the section-room are provided with wall slates or black-boards, and a tray for chalk, wipers, and pointers, extends across the bottom of each.