Acid‐catalyzed condensation of a series of 3‐oxoalkanoic acid esters with aniline affords the corresponding 2‐alkyl‐4‐quinolones in good yield. Treatment of these compounds with methyl iodide affords 2‐alkyl‐4‐methoxyquinolines and 2‐alkyl‐N‐methylquinolones. Three of the compounds are naturally‐occurring alkaloids which are synthesized here for the first time. Copyright © 1981 Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry