AbstractPyridine reacts directly with an alkylamine in toluene in the presence of powdered sodium or potassium. The yield of the 2‐alkylamino‐pyridine increases proportionally with the amounts of pyridine and sodium used. α‐Picoline and quinoline react in the same manner. Some derivatives of these heterocyclic bases have been prepared by reaction with primary alkyl‐ or aralkyl‐amines. Experiments with aromatic or secondary amines were unsuccessful. A mechanism has been proposed for this direct substitution in view of the experime