Chapter C: L. S. C. Commencement.a (2)

_Chautauquans_:—In these days of popular education, it may be profitable to examine the different sources of culture and development. First among these are books—the treasures that lie hidden in them may well awaken our inquiry and admiration, may well be worth the many hours of toil spent in preparing the mind, so that it can converse with the masters of the past and present. I do not wonder at hunger after the hidden treasures of books, for in them are power, wealth and pleasure. We need but watch the interested audiences that gather in this Amphitheater, to realize the power there is in the rostrum, how in all ages peoples have been confirmed or changed in their opinions by that mere persuasive power of words. Your mind now runs over the histories you have studied, and you recall the orators who, through the power of speech alone, have revolutionized empires, advanced or checked civilization. What pleasure to the mind and heart, to be able in our leisure hours to sit with Herodotus, Macaulay, Motley, Bancroft, and a host of others, and hear them tell their historic stories! or with David, Homer, Shakspere, Whittier and Bryant, and let them fill our minds with the beautiful and soothing words of poetry! Does not art, in a still more condensed form, give us the history of the nations of the past? Does it not give us a clearer idea of thought? What descriptive words could give us so clear a view of the golden candlestick, around which clusters so much of interest to the Bible student, as can be had by a look at the plaster mould of the arch of Titus, in the Museum? What more rapidly moulds, and more powerfully influences, the present age than do the pictures on the walls, and the books in the libraries of our homes?

May I venture to bring before your mind that other phase of art, known as the mechanic art? That art, on which the educator has placed so small an estimate that when an apparently dull boy is found in the school or family, he is turned over to it, in the notion that stupidity can here find subsistence and compensation.

Now, give this art the power to express itself in words and in the fine arts, and I will bring back to you the days of Raphael and Michael Angelo, in which thought was expressed in words and on canvas and stone, in such purity that the student in the schools of to-day is carried back to these times, to study the perfection and beauty of expression. In the line of a better educated labor lies the settlement of the great labor question. Will it be as Garfield suggests, for Chautauqua to provide not only for the leisure, but secure the leisure by some system of education that will make it possible?

If by any means the mental energies can be combined with the muscles, the product of labor will be greatly increased, and the time producing the same quantity lessened. Struggling labor hardly sees that in the short space of about thirty years the time has been lessened from thirteen and fourteen hours to ten hours per day, and the wages enhanced from fifty and seventy-five cents per day to an average of two dollars per day. In most of the prominent manufacturing establishments throughout the North we are at a near approach to a reduction of time to eight hours—_and may God speed the day_. Take the advance in quantity of products for ten years only, and by the aid of machinery, and more intelligent labor, we have gained more than two hours. Why should not labor get its due proportion? We are fast turning the drudgery of labor to pleasure. You need but visit the dish-washing and laundry-rooms at the Hotel Athenæum to witness the truth of what I state.

Some years ago I made an estimate of the number of inhabitants it would require to do by hard labor that which was done at that time by twelve thousand inhabitants by the use of steam and water power. It reached the enormous number of three hundred thousand inhabitants. From this we may learn that it will not be a great hardship to give to labor more leisure and more pay, not rashly as by strikes, but by prudent and gradual measures.

Ah, the wealth of nations rests in this art! The power to subdue forests and belt empires with railroads and telegraphs, and ignore distance is in its hands.

This art sends forth its missionary in its manufactured products to all quarters of the globe; every different product is a copy of a volume on some subject, carrying with it some Christian’s impress and prayer. So true is this that it needs no great expert to tell an article made by Christian hands from that made by heathen.

This power of the individuality impresses with interest and wonder. How readily thoughts in words are detected from others, even on the same subject. Every workman of a manufactured article in some such sense makes his individual impress on the work he performs, and it is as readily told. The Christian, liberty-loving intelligence is pressed into every article and sent forth on its mission of preaching the gospel to every creature, even gaining entrance where the missionary is refused. With this truth in mind, with what renewed pleasure must the liberated laborer make still greater impress of his individual mind. This thought can be carried into all that we do. Our walk, our talk, and the expression of our faces all enter into our products of whatever kind. How important that it should be imbued with the spirit of intelligent Christianity.

Class of ’83, you have only opened the doors to wider range, to fields of greater usefulness. All about you lie sleeping elements to be quickened into activity. Have your accumulated mental development well stored, and constantly add more. The purpose of the study was more to create an appetite for knowledge than to give a thorough or finished education.

We are glad as officers of the C. L. S. C. to present you with diplomas having places for many seals. May there be no laxity of effort until the crowning seal will emblazon over the whole its rays.

* * * * *

The Rev. Dr. Vincent said:

A large number of salutations from members of the C. L. S. C. have been received, some of them breathing a simple prayer of benediction on the Circle and its officers, others testifying to the value of the Circle to them intellectually, socially, and spiritually; many are too long to read at this time, but every line has been carefully read by the Superintendent of Instruction, and a few of the sentences are here reported:

From Sacramento, Cal.: “We long to be with you at the Assembly; but since we can not be, be assured that as we read of Commencement Day our hearts beat in sympathy with those of the C. L. S. C.”

From Washington, D. C.: “Hearty thanks for so splendid an opportunity of living more abundantly, as I have enjoyed through the noble conception and sensible management of the C. L. S. C. I hope to add many of its seals to my diploma.”

From St. Paul, Minn.: “The day in which ’83 passes through the Golden Gate you, who are present amidst the jubilee, will most likely forget the distant ones; but I for one will put on my C. L. S. C. badge, take out two faded maple leaves, kept in remembrance of last summer, and in imagination march with the proud class under the Arches, while I will pray the good Lord to bless Chautauqua.”

From Brooklyn, N. Y.: “The salutation, as recorded in Malachi iii:16, ‘Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard it; and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord and thought upon his name.’”

From San Francisco: A New Yorker writes: “I found THE CHAUTAUQUAN on a planter’s table in the Sandwich Islands, and learned of a circle in Honolulu.”

A member writes: “The royal road to learning is no _terra incognita_. Our _route en roi_ is called _via_ Chautauqua.”

From Amsterdam, N. Y.: A poem closes:

“I would like very much to Chautauqua to go;
It would certainly give me great joy;
But my duties are such that I linger at home:
I’ve a year-old Chautauqua boy.”

From Elkhorn, Wis.: One who sees through the lenses of the C. L. S. C., the Chautauqua University of the future, writes: “In 1904, A. D., I shall be fifty years old. At that time I hope to graduate at the Chautauqua University. This will give me just twenty-five years from the beginning of my course in 1876 to complete the work, and I intend to work diligently every year.”

From Massachusetts: “Language would be left a beggar if I were to tell you all that the C. L. S. C. has been to me. It has been a song and a poem, when life was beginning to read like prose. It has been sunshine on many a cloudy day. God bless our alma mater, and make her days long in the land.”

From New York: “When the history of the successful men and women of the next generation shall be written, may it be found that the members of the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle of 1883 are among the number.”

From Santa Barbara, Cal., comes the greeting of Mrs. M. P. Austin, who prays that “the C. L. S. C. may do as much for others as it has done for me.”

From St. Paul, Minn., a graduate writes: “Although in middle life, I have rejoiced like a child at the prospect of graduating. My studies have been precious to me; and, although I have carried them on alone, the enthusiasm has never grown less. May I boast of the dozen recruits whom I have brought into the work, not for the name of it, but because I want everybody to be benefited as I have been. Saturday will find me in a white dress and blue ribbon, and I shall try to catch the spirit which ascends to our Father, and have something of the blessings which are invoked upon the graduates of that day. May his blessed spirit be with you, and may he be precious not only to them who believe, but to many who never before have called on his name.”

From Massachusetts a member writes: “I have heard this objection to the C. L. S. C., that it leads to neglect of Bible study. My personal experience has been that I never spent more time in Bible study or loved it more than during the past four years.”

From Dakota a mother writes: “Although my boy is but eleven years old, he has done the greater part of my reading this year, and dear little Maggie, nine years of age, is greatly interested in what she calls mamma’s course. She also often reads for me, patiently spelling out the hard words.”

William C. Wilkinson, of Tarrytown, New York, writes:

“I send greeting, congratulation and God-speed to the
class of 1883. A persistence on your part of four years
in a course of volunteer reading and study has not only
created character in you, but also proved that you
possessed character to begin with. It was not perfectly
easy for you to do what you have done. There have been
times, more than once, during these four years, when
the temptation was strong to abandon your undertaking.
But you did not abandon it, simply because you would
not abandon it. Your will was strong enough to overcome
the strong temptation. Now your will is stronger for
having been strong. Go forward in this added strength
to add strength again. The will conquers by conquering,
until it becomes at length unconquerable. Conquer is a
proud word. Let us change it and say something meeker
and truer. Let us say, obey. We conquer only when we
obey. You have obeyed your conscience in accomplishing
your appointed course. That obedience is your victory.
When the will is perfectly obedient to conscience,
conscience being at the same time perfectly enlightened
by the Word and by the Spirit of God, then we are
omnipotent. We reign then with Christ. All things are
ours. Go on, alumni of Chautauqua. Carry forward the
banner. Let it float in your hands ever farther and
higher. I do not say _plant_ it anywhere. I say _bear_
it onward and upward. There is always, amid the Alps of
our glorious endeavor and struggle, a peak above and
beyond. Climb that, and then—forward still. The goal
is never attained, but the race itself is better than
would be rest at the goal. Remember the ranks that are
behind you, year after year, in the future. Give them a
generous lead. Remember the one pioneer rank in advance
of you. Tread close on their heels. Follow, so that it
will be hard for your leaders to lead. Lead, so that it
will be hard for your followers to follow.

“God bless and crown the Class of 1883!

“W. C. WILKINSON.”

Bishop Henry W. Warren writes:

“TOP OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS, August 1, 1883.

“_Dear Chautauquans_:—Pausing to take a farewell
look at the Atlantic slope before going down that
of the Pacific, my mind passes over many a place of
interest and rests on Chautauqua. There is no more
interesting place on the continent. How many faces rise
for recognition! But I can not indulge in personal
greetings, for the friends are so many and so dear that
time would fail me to speak of the institution that
is the outcome of the inspiration and labor of all
these friends. William Cullen Bryant said Chautauqua
exemplified the spirit of mutual encouragement.
President Garfield said that it taught what to do with
the result of civilization’s first fight, leisure; and
Bishop Wiley said it was a Christian center, able to
save the gospel if there was nothing else left.

“Unquestionably, Chautauqua is the grandest inspiration
and quickening of mind in this century or any other. It
is the consummate flavoring of our Christian republican
principles. It offers all opportunities for growth to
all men. It seems to present as good a chance to every
man as comes to any man. This development of mind is
our chief wealth. We turn auriferous quartz into coin,
iron ore into a body for the soul of electricity,
but mind had to be developed and refined first. Rome
sought wealth by the robbery of other nations, but she
never gained as much wealth in a decade as we develop
from nature in a year. What we need as a nation is
a perpetual push and effort of the masses of men to
rise. They drag down none of the few that are already
eminent, but, by surpassing them, incite to greater
attainments. Let there be no fear that there will
be too many great men, or men too great. These vast
glittering snow-peaks about me find room enough, as
well as the mole hills. ‘There is always room at the
top,’ for the top is larger than the bottom, as these
bending heavens are larger than the earth, and eternity
longer than time.

“Would that I could set one of these mountains near
Chautauqua and let its grassy base, its wooded slopes,
its masses of ore, its glittering crown of glorious
light say to every beholder: Here is an object lesson
worthy of God’s giving to his child, here is a symbol
of the eternal power of the God-head of your Father,
here are hints of what his child may be. All things are
for all men; whosoever will, let him come and take.

“Dear members of the C. L. S. C. of 1883, I commend you
to the baccalaureate sermon of Dr. Vincent to-morrow
for higher and grander utterances than these heights
can give; to Dr. Abbott also for grander foundations
than those of these mountains; even those of the
Christian faith, for the mountains shall melt with
fervent heat, but the word of God standeth forever.

“Yours in Christian knowledge and faith,

“HENRY W. WARREN.”

Dr. Vincent then read the following:

Let Framingham Chautauqua hail,
The child the mother greet!
O’er intervening hill and dale,
Oh, courier, be fleet!

Say, “Brothers, fellow-students, friends,
Ne’er turn to look behind;
For they whose pathway upward tends,
The sun-crowned summits find.

“The outlook broadens, even now,
A vision rare and grand;
Hope in each heart, light on each brow,
Join welcome hand to hand!

“And while the kindly grasp gives strength,
Repeat along the line:
‘We’ll turn from earthly lore, at length
Beloved, to things divine.

“‘Bright with perennial health and youth,
When that glad time shall be,
Our guide the way, the life, the truth,
Immortal pupils we!’”

After the reading of the congratulations and greetings, Dr. Vincent and President Miller presented the members of class ’83, present at Chautauqua, their well-earned diplomas. Out of this wonderful class of graduates, numbering nearly 1,400, over 300 were present. The class has representatives in all of the following States and Territories:

California, Maine, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Minnesota, Maryland, Iowa, Illinois, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Kansas, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Texas, Vermont, West Virginia, Connecticut, Missouri, District of Columbia, New Hampshire, Colorado, Dakota, Kentucky.

Canada is also represented, and in far-away China there is one graduate. Thirteen different denominations are represented, as follows: Methodist, Presbyterian, Congregational, Episcopal, Baptist, Christian, United Presbyterian, Reformed, Unitarian, Universalist, Friends, Roman Catholics, Seventh-day Baptists.

The following occupations were represented: Teachers, housekeepers, ministers, lawyers, clerks, students, mechanics, farmers, merchants, dressmakers, milliners, music-teachers, and stenographers.

* * * * *

SOCIETY OF THE HALL IN THE GROVE.

At 4 o’clock p. m., the Society of the Hall in the Grove assembled in the Hall for counsel in regard to its future work. It was clearly seen by all that the prosperity of the organization, if not its very existence, required accommodations for its meetings, such as Chautauqua could not now supply. After considerable discussion of many suggestions, the following committee was appointed to consider plans for the erection of a building, or of a series of buildings, in the near future for the use of the society: R. S. Holmes, of Auburn, N. Y.; A. M. Martin, of Pittsburgh, Pa.; A. H. Gillet, Prof. Mattison, and S. J. M. Eaton, D.D. A committee on constitution, aims and plans of the organization was appointed, consisting of J. H. Vincent, D.D.; J. R. Pepper, of Memphis, Tenn.; L. C. Peake, of Toronto, Canada; R. S. Holmes and J. G. Allen. J. G. Allen and A. D. Wilder were appointed additional members of the Guard of the Banner.

After the Society of the Hall in the Grove had completed the business, a social followed, and song and chat ruled the hour.

About 9 o’clock, under the direction of A. M. Martin, the camp fires were lighted. In the midst of a light which was nearly as bright as day, R. S. Holmes, I. I. Covet, of Pittsburgh; J. H. Kellogg, of Troy, N. Y.; Lewis C. Peake, of Toronto; Rev. J. H. Warren, of Tennessee, and A. M. Martin, of Pittsburgh, made speeches, containing reminiscences of the past, interspersed with song, and the great crowd appeared to listen as attentively as if it had not heard a speech during the day.

But the fires have burnt low, the people surround a bed of hot coals, and the time for corn roasting has come. The boys are ready, and some not boys in years are equally eager for the “green corn dance.” Without coarseness or rudeness the fun commenced, and continued till the night bells called to repose. Thus closed the graduating exercises of the C. L. S. C. Class of 1883. From morning till night the tide of life ran high, shared in by ten thousand people of all ages, from the tiny girl to the veteran of many years.

* * * * *

ORDER OF THE WHITE SEAL.

A meeting of the members of the Order of the White Seal was held on Saturday evening at 7:30 o’clock in the Hall, Rev. Dr. Eaton in the chair. In the absence of the secretary, the minutes of last meeting were read by the chairman. On motion, the Rev. S. J. M. Eaton, D. D., Franklin, Pa., was elected president for the ensuing year, and Mr. L. C. Peake, Toronto, Can., secretary. Rev. W. H. Rogers reported on behalf of the Committee on Individual Effort, Mrs. E. F. Curtiss for that on Local Circles, and Miss Carrie C. Ferrin for that on the Round-Table. On motion these reports were accepted. Committees for the ensuing year were appointed as follows: On Individual Effort, Rev. W. H. Rogers, Sodus, Wayne County, N. Y.; Miss Emily Raymond, Toledo, O., and Miss C. Dickey, Geneseo, N. Y. On Local Circles, Mrs. E. F. Curtiss, Geneseo, N. Y.; Miss Fannie E. Roy, Atlanta, Ga., and Clarence H. Bean, Varysburg, N. Y. On the Round-Table, Miss Carrie C. Ferrin, Ellington, N. Y.; Mrs. A. W. Briggs, Elma, N. Y., and Miss M. C. McGowan, Cincinnati, O.

FOOTNOTE:

[A] At Chautauqua, Saturday, August 18, 1883.

MONTEREY ASSEMBLY.

The Pacific Grove Assembly, held near Monterey, California, devoted Friday, July 13, to the commencement exercises of the C. L. S. C. We give a full report of the celebration:

Friday was a perfect Monterey day. The Chautauquans gathered according to program in the large public parlor of the railroad building and fell into line for a procession. The choir sang a cheerful Chautauqua song, in which many others joined, and then “processed.” First came the president and officers of the society, then the graduates, then all members of the C. L. S. C.—then everybody. All members wore an oak leaf, which is the regulation badge, but members of the graduating class wore for a decoration a broad badge of dark garnet-colored ribbon, fringed with bullion, and with the unfailing “C. L. S. C.” and the figures “1883” printed upon it in gold. They marched toward the Assembly Hall, passing under the motto-inscribed and garlanded arches, and entering the building proceeded to the front seats, which had been reserved. The hall, under the care of the decorative committee, had broken out into fresh verdure and bloom, while the letters “C. L. S. C.” and the class dates, “1879-1883,” had blossomed out in gold and scarlet upon the white wall behind the speakers’ platform.

The hall was full to overflowing. Everybody on the grounds had been invited to be present, and the greatest interest was manifested by all. The exercises began with an inspiring Chautauqua song. An earnest and appropriate prayer was offered by Rev. Dr. Heacock, of San Jose, and then a beautiful letter of greeting from Dr. Vincent, the founder of the society, was read. It was full of cordial friendliness, outlined briefly the benefits which he trusted all had received from pursuing the C. L. S. C. studies, and pointed out the catholicity and wide helpfulness of the Chautauqua Idea. It closed with words of stimulus and encouragement, as well as congratulation. Prof. Norton now made a brief but admirable introductory address. He spoke of the Chautauqua enthusiasm and interest as an intellectual revival. It is a work for the masses, differing from that of the great universities of whose benefits only a few favored ones can avail themselves. It goes to homes of poverty, to workshops and kitchens as well as the libraries and parlors. It is food for the hungry wherever they may be. It comes to lives which have been arid and desolate through monotonous toil. He spoke of the great increase of insanity among our farming population, owing, no doubt, to the lack of healthful mental occupation. The C. L. S. C. course of reading and plans for neighborhood circles may help these lonely, overworked people to new and broader horizons of thought and life. Prof. Norton closed with a pathetic and poetic comparison between our real lives and our temporary sojourn by the great sea which tosses and surges before us. Our footsteps on the shore here are washed away by every incoming tide, so with our “footsteps on the sands of time.” The great sea of eternity will soon efface all our little earthly deeds. Let us live for eternal things. Let to-day be a commencement indeed—a beginning of grander and better living, of deeds which shall survive in the long years of God.

The quartet choir sang another beautiful song, and then three essays were read from the graduates.

A delicate little prose-poem called “Childhood in Literature,” by Miss Myrtie Hudson, of San Jose (a post-graduate of our society), was read by Miss Lydia Bean. The diplomas were presented by Dr. Stratton, who remarked when giving them that these diplomas do not confer degrees, but something better than a degree, for they represent mature study, habits of fixed thought and life-long intellectual growth.

There were more than forty C. L. S. C. graduates in our State this year. The following were present: Mrs. Lydia A. French, Stockton; Mrs. H. J. Gardener, Rio Vista; Miss E. A. Wood, Riverside; Mrs. A. J. Bennett, San Jose; Mrs. M. E. McCowen, Ukiah; Mrs. E. M. Reynolds, San Jose; Miss M. McBride, Dixon; Mrs. C. C. Minard, Evergreen; Mrs. Estelle Greathead, San Jose; Mrs. Lucy N. Crane, San Lorenzo; Mrs. S. E. Walton, Yuba City; Miss Cornelia Walker, San Jose; Mrs. S. F. Gosbey, Santa Clara; Mrs. F. W. Pond, Los Angeles; Miss Alice M. Wells, Dixon; Mrs. M. H. McKee, San Jose; Miss Henrietta Stone, Mrs. Mira E. Miller, Santa Barbara; Dr. C. C. Stratton, San Jose.

After the commencement exercises the crowd dispersed, and the friends of the graduates gathered around them to congratulate and exchange friendly greetings. But it was late lunch-time, and the keen demands of appetite were never keener than here at Pacific Grove. So, with the understanding that all were to reassemble at 2 o’clock p. m., those who had lingered hastened away. The hour for meeting soon arrived, and the Chautauquans mustered in force at the beautiful cove near Prospect Park. After a lively social time, President Stratton called the meeting to order and pointed out a suggestive-looking traveling photographer, armed with the usual camera and other implements, who had been hovering about a neighboring cliff, and evidently had intentions of immortalizing the C. L. S. C. Assembly. Everybody was requested to assume a graceful attitude and a pleased expression, which they made haste to do. The beach was covered with people, standing, sitting, reclining. It was very hard work to be sober and proper, and look as dignified as future ages will demand. Our president reclined upon the sand, as befitted “the noblest Roman of us all;” the secretary sat upright and faced the music; the modest vice-president tried to get away, but was restrained by his numerous admiring friends; the small boys in front were entreated to keep still; the photographer removed the pall-like black cloth, and the deed was done. The result was quite successful, and the picture may yet hang in the “Hall in the Grove,” that eastern Chautauquans may see how their transcontinental comrades look when disporting themselves by the sunset sea.

The photograph business being disposed of, the next thing in order was the Round-Table. There was no table to speak of, but a great deal of “round”—an informal all ’round talk in a pleasant, familiar fashion. Everybody was seated upon the shining white sand, a soft gray sky overhead, a mild, warm atmosphere enfolding all, and the illimitable sea stretching out before us and breaking in soft murmurs at our feet. Members from all over the State gave, in brief conversational style, cheering reports of their various circles, and the utmost interest was manifested by all in the common weal. The tone of the meeting was decidedly inspiring, and all seemed ready to promise improvement and renewed effort.

The next evening was the mussel-bake. A blazing fire had been built upon the sand, but far from the assemblage, and much vigorous _muscle_ was displayed in stirring the embers and piling on driftwood and resinous pine cones, but as to the _mussels_, perhaps the less said about them the better. There were, indeed, mussels baked, and they were passed around upon a board in the most approved style, but it must be confessed the supply was not very abundant. The whole mussel-bake was a little like Hamlet, with the part of Hamlet left out. The explanation lay in the fact that mussels can only be gathered in certain places and at very low tide, and there had been a little misunderstanding. Nevertheless, brethren, we had a grand time, an unlimited supply of apples and freshly-roasted peanuts, and we fully propose to have a mussel-bake every year!

At a business meeting held during the assembly, Rev. Dr. Stratton was re-elected to the presidency of the Pacific Coast C. L. S. C.; Dr. C. L. Anderson, of Santa Cruz, was elected vice-president; Mrs. M. H. Field, of San Jose, general secretary and treasurer; Miss Mary Bowman, of San Jose, secretary of the Assembly, and Mrs. Eloise Dawson, of San Jose, treasurer of the Assembly. Votes of thanks were given to many benefactors and to retiring officers, especially to Miss M. E. B. Norton, who has given our Branch the most faithful and untiring service.

Our newly elected executive committee consists of Rev. C. C. Stratton, D.D., San Jose, president; C. L. Anderson, M.D., vice-president, Santa Cruz; Mrs. M. H. Field, general secretary, San Jose; Mrs. Eloise Dawson, San Jose, treasurer; Rev. J. H. Wythe, D.D., Oakland; Prof. H. B. Norton, San Jose; Rev. I. H. Dwinelle, Sacramento; G. M. Ames, Oakland; Miss Lucy Washburn, San Jose; Prof. Josiah Keep, Alameda; Mrs. L. J. Nusbaum, Sacramento; Rev. C. D. Barrows, San Francisco; Mrs. S. E. Walton, Yuba City; Mrs. Julia Leal, Los Angeles; Mrs. E. M. McCowen, Ukiah; Clarke Whittier, M.D., Riverside; Mrs. E. A. Gibbs, Santa Rosa; Miss M. E. B. Norton, San Jose.

MONTEAGLE ASSEMBLY.

By REV. J. H. WARREN.

Monteagle Assembly is located at Monteagle, Grundy County, Tenn., on the top of Cumberland Mountain, fifteen miles from Cowan, between Sewanee and Tracy City, immediately on the railroad owned and managed by the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company. Cowan is a small village on the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, eighty-four miles from Nashville and sixty-four miles from Chattanooga. The ride up the mountain from Cowan to the Assembly grounds is one of the most picturesque in this country. The ascent for the first nine miles is 1,100 feet. The Assembly owns a hundred acres of land, which have been laid out into parks, drives, avenues, and building lots. About twenty-five acres have already been improved, and quite a number of lots have been sold to individuals upon which to build cottages. An amphitheater, capable of seating 2,000 persons, on the plan of the one at Chautauqua, has been erected. Within a very short distance of the Assembly grounds is some of the most magnificent mountain scenery to be found in any country. The elevation is 2,140 feet above the sea level. The Assembly is strictly undenominational. Each Christian denomination is entitled to four members in the board of trustees, provided they have as many members of the Assembly. The charter prohibits it from being managed for the pecuniary interest of any person or persons.

The first annual meeting of the Assembly has closed. It was a success beyond our most sanguine expectation. The Normal School and Teachers’ Retreat opened July 2, and closed August 4. These schools were all well attended. More than one hundred and fifty teachers attended the Normal alone. About fifty-two studied elocution. These teachers were from several States, and a more intelligent class I have never seen collected together anywhere.

The Assembly opened July 17, and closed August 6. At the opening service there were 1,000 people present. The attendance was good during the entire Assembly. At one time on the grounds there were twenty-one States and nineteen Christian denominations represented.

In the program, two days were given to temperance, one day to Y. M. C. A. work, two days to missions, foreign and domestic, and two days to education. The meetings throughout were of great interest.

Out of the large number of speakers on the program only four or five failed to attend.

The Sunday-school normal instruction, the children’s meetings, and Mr. Van Lennep’s “Oriental and Biblical Museum” were interesting features of the Assembly.

But I desire to call special attention to the work of the C. L. S. C. at Monteagle. We recognize this as an institution in this country. It is fast finding its way into many of our Southern homes, and bringing sunshine and blessings to many hearts.

At our solicitation, Dr. J. H. Vincent was present two or three days of the Assembly, and represented the C. L. S. C. His words of wisdom and cheer were a joy to many hearts. There were twenty members of the C. L. S. C. present to greet him. This number was increased to seventy before the Assembly adjourned.

A permanent organization was perfected, with Miss Emma Brown, Memphis, Tenn., president, and Miss Anna W. Thomas, Memphis, Tenn., secretary. The idea is to have annual meetings at Monteagle.

Each member went away determined to organize local circles at their homes, so that when we return next year, if permitted to do so, the members will have swelled from fifty to five hundred. We hope Dr. Vincent will favor us with his presence each year.

During the Assembly a number of C. L. S. C. Round-Tables were held, which were profitable, socially and intellectually.

On the evening of July 21 was held the first C. L. S. C. camp-fire at Monteagle, under the leadership of Dr. Vincent. The speeches and songs were full of inspiration and good cheer. We only regret that hundreds of our people in the South were not present to enjoy the meetings with us, and take fresh courage and inspiration for the work of life.

Miss Thomas, our secretary, has been instructed to correspond with all members of the C. L. S. C., who were at Monteagle, and all others whose names and post-office addresses she can get. She would be glad to have the names of all who are interested in this work. We desire to arrange for some organized effort to push this work out into the many homes of our country. Let every city, town, and village, and neighborhood, organize a circle.

Those members of the C. L. S. C., who were at Monteagle, have determined to erect a Hall of Philosophy, that we may have a place in which to hold our meetings each year. This can be done very easily by a little co-operative effort.

All things considered, the Assembly was quite a success. The outlook is encouraging. Although located in the South, it is not a Southern institution, it is for the public good. Let the people come from the North, South, East, and West; all will be equally welcome. Life is too short to harbor animosities. Let us enter the struggles and conflicts of life like heroes and heroines. As a nation, we have a grand work before us to elevate our people socially, morally, religiously, and intellectually. Monteagle proposes to do her part. Will the good people of this country stand by us in this noble work? If you will, success is sure. There is no other enterprise of the kind in the South. The people are united. Give us your prayers and co-operation. If you desire to do good with your money, take hold of Monteagle Assembly.

To the sister assemblies over the land, we send words of greeting. To all the members of the C. L. S. C. throughout this broad land we extend the right hand of fellowship. For the unity, peace, and the uplifting of our people, and the establishing of Christ’s kingdom, may we all be united, heart and hand, in Christian love and sympathy.

MONONA LAKE ASSEMBLY.

No one can estimate the extent to which the C. L. S. C. is growing. One State after another surrenders to its influence. During the past year Wisconsin has taken hold of the work, and is now showing a wonderful interest in the studies of the “home college.” The little text-books have found their way into many a quiet family, and are beginning to revolutionize society in every city, village, and country neighborhood.

This fact was shown very clearly at the Assembly held at Monona Lake, near Madison, Wisconsin. Many local circles sent representatives to this gathering to receive, through them, inspiration and strength for the work of the coming year. The total attendance from various localities was nearly two hundred. C. L. S. C. Day was the best of the whole session. Although an entirely new feature, yet the people became so enthused that about a thousand called for circulars of information, and many joined the Circle before they left the grounds.

Rev. A. H. Gillet, the president of the Monona Lake Branch, delivered the annual address, in which he explained most admirably the object and aim of the Circle. Twelve persons, who had completed the four years’ course, were present to receive their diplomas, and notwithstanding the absence of the “Golden Gate” and the “Hall of Philosophy,” everything had the Chautauqua appearance, and the very atmosphere was filled with classic odors.

The camp-fire in the evening was a feature that will never be forgotten by those present. After the feast of solid food during the day, this evening hour was filled with real enjoyment, and many humorous speeches that were made as the flames ascended and the sparks disappeared in the starry dome above, served to lighten every heart, and to close the day with the feeling that it was indeed the best of the season.

The round-table conferences, conducted by Rev. A. H. Gillet, were full of interest. Some very important questions were discussed, and the members present prepared for successful work in their respective homes. The Chautauqua Songs were sung at all of these meetings, and never did “Day is Dying in the West” sound more sweetly than at Monona Lake.

But of all the exercises connected with the Circle, the Sunday evening vesper services were the best. Here was shown the real secret of Chautauqua success. Nearly every member, engaged during the week in gathering knowledge of art, science and literature, was found in his place on Sunday evening, lifting his heart to God, and showing thereby that we “keep our Heavenly Father in our midst.”

The organization of Monona Lake Branch was perfected by the election of Rev. A. H. Gillet as president, and Mrs. William Millard, of Milwaukee, secretary. An executive committee was appointed to arrange the plans for next year. We look forward to good reports from this daughter of Chautauqua, and give her a hearty welcome.

ISLAND PARK ASSEMBLY.

Unusual interest was manifest this season at Island Park, near Rome City, Indiana. The Assembly, conducted by Rev. A. H. Gillet, of Cincinnati, Ohio, was a great success. The place is growing in favor each year, and the fire kindled there will not only continue to burn, but to spread, until every hamlet within a radius of many miles shall receive the light and warming influences that come from such gatherings. The attendance this year was larger than ever before, the people were of a better class, and the program, as carried out, gave universal satisfaction. The singing of the Wilberforce Concert Company delighted everybody. Among the lecturers were Drs. O. H. Tiffany and C. H. Fowler, of New York City; Dr. Justin D. Fulton, of Brooklyn, N. Y.; Drs. Stocking and Alabaster, of Detroit, Michigan, and Dr. P. S. Henson, of Chicago, Illinois. Dr. W. C. Richards, of Chicago, gave several very interesting lectures on “Electricity.” The Island Park Branch of the C. L. S. C. was regularly organized this year, with Rev. A. H. Gillet as president, and J. L. Shearer, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, secretary. There were over two hundred members in attendance. The daily round-table conferences, conducted by Rev. Gillet and Dr. J. L. Hurlbut, of Plainfield, N. J., were highly appreciated by the members present, and many valuable suggestions given and received by these mutual discussions. The circle is enlarging continually in Indiana and Michigan, so that there is scarcely a town or village in which there is not a local circle, or at least a few individual members. Many have joined the class of ’87, and quite a large number, having completed the four years’ course, were present to receive their diplomas. C. L. S. C. day was the best of the session. Dr. C. H. Fowler, of New York City, delivered the annual address. The camp-fire was the grandest ever seen at Island Park.

Plans for the erection of a C. L. S. C. building are under consideration, a reading-room for the benefit of the Circle, an Island Park lecture association, and many other novel features are things of the near future.

The Music College, under the direction of Prof. C. C. Case, of Akron, Ohio, the school of languages, the department of elocution, the art school, and the secular teachers’ normal were also well attended. It is the intention of the managers to lengthen the time of these departments next year, and to offer additional facilities to those who wish to improve their vacation by carrying on some line of study. On the whole, we can say that Island Park Assembly is a fixed fact, a thing that has come to stay, and we are glad that the people are beginning to appreciate and to value the educating and refining influences of these gatherings.

LAKESIDE ASSEMBLY.

A regular “C. L. S. C. Day” was provided for in the program at the Lakeside, Ohio, Sunday-school encampment, and the “recognition of the Class of ’83” arranged for. The absence of Rev. J. H. Vincent, D.D., was an unexpected and greatly lamented interruption to our plans. But the inspiration of the “Chautauqua Idea,” which Lakeside has caught and thoroughly incorporated into its own fiber, did not allow a dampening of ardor, and so the “day” went on as days will, and especially such sunny days by Lake Erie as that was. Happily Lewis Miller, Esq., President of the C. L. S. C., was persuaded to remain a while and lend his cheery face, his wise words and his authoritative presence to the occasion.

A large audience, filling the capacious Auditorium, assembled, the members of the Class of ’83 took seats on the platform, and President Miller occupied the chair. After opening exercises in the use of the responsive services provided, copies of which were distributed among the audience, addresses were delivered by Rev. Dr. Hartupee, Rev. Dr. Worden, Prof. Frank Beard, and Rev. B. T. Vincent. After these had concluded, President Miller called the members of the class to their feet, and in a neat and appropriate address “recognized” them thereby as graduates of the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle, as part of the great class of fourteen hundred for the current year. A round-table was also held, conducted by Rev. B. T. Vincent, at which the subject of C. L. S. C. work was taken up by those present, and treated in a most practical manner. Representatives from several local circles gave outlines of their plans of work, and questions from interested students as to methods, etc., brought forth suggestive answers, awakening new interest in the subject of study, and stirring the uninitiated, of whom many were present, into an interest in the work. A Sunday evening C. L. S. C. vesper service was also most interesting. On the last evening of the encampment, Bishop Hurst, who was present, applied the subject of general reading as represented in the C. L. S. C. in its relation to a firmer religious texture in Christian character, in a ringing address which did much toward awakening new interest in this great work. The enthusiasm excited by the meetings in this behalf was cordially felt by Lakeside people, and it is determined to make the “recognition” of the class of the current year, and also the round-table, features of the annual program hereafter.

Surrounded as Lakeside is by an immense area filled with studious and enterprising people who are taking hold of the C. L. S. C. readings, and who are finding their special center of summer gathering there, this provision will be a source of great gratification to them, and a means of extending these benefits to many who only thus are brought into contact with this agency of Christian intelligence and popular culture.

MOUNTAIN LAKE PARK ASSEMBLY.

The fifth annual session of this Assembly lasted ten days, August 7-17. Some will recall the fact that the institution was established in the Cumberland Valley, Pennsylvania, and was held there for three successive years. Last year the experiment was made of holding the meeting in the Glades, at the new resort called Mountain Lake Park, Maryland. The new field was so full of promise and hope that it was at once determined to make it the center of the movement henceforth. The place is unique in some of its features, situated in the midst of a series of table-land glades, between the peaks of the Alleghenies, in the vicinity of some most romantic and stirring scenery, and possessing an atmosphere abounding in stimulation and vigor. Two years ago the region was an uninhabited wilderness, with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad resort, Deer Park, on one side three miles away, and Oakland, the county seat of Garrett County, two miles to the west. Now it is a summer settlement abounding in picturesque cottages, beautiful drives, and linked to a Sunday-school Assembly and to “summer schools” of various sorts for all time to come.

The lecture course of the session just past was of a high order. It included three superb addresses from Dr. Lyman Abbott, full of vigorous thought, religious ardor, and primed and charged with suggestiveness—“Why I believe in God, in Christ, and in the Bible.” Prof. Cumnock gave two magnificent entertainments in the shape of readings and recitations. Prof. Young, of Princeton, delighted us with three illustrated astronomical lectures; and the Rev. Jesse Bowman Young gave three tours, illustrated also with the stereopticon: “The Marvels of Colorado,” “London and Paris,” and “From Dan to Beersheba.” Prof. Harris, on the “Wrong side of the Moon,” Dr. Huntley, on the “Amen Corner,” Bishop Andrews, on “The Method of the New Testament Law,” and Dr. Payne, with two lectures, all did their best work, and earned and received high appreciation.

The normal classes were under the instruction of Rev. J. B. Young, Rev. J. T. Judd, Rev. J. Vance, and Prof. Elliott of Baltimore. The lessons were chosen in part from Dr. Vincent’s “Normal Outlines,” and in part were prepared by Mr. Judd.

Rev. Mr. Young conducted two enthusiastic and interesting services during the closing days of the Assembly, developing the “Chautauqua Idea.” Drs. Frysinger, Van Meter, and Leech, Messrs. Judd, Vance, Baldwin, Lindsey, and others, made capital addresses, bringing out as phases of this “Idea” the following elements: home study, Bible study, normal work, study of the classics, of literature, of the sciences.

On the last night of the Assembly at Mountain Lake Park the C. L. S. C. was organized, with over fifty members, Rev. J. T. Judd, of Harrisburg, Pa., being elected president, and Miss Jennie M. Jones, of the same city, secretary.

Thus from the tip-top of the Alleghenies we send out greetings to other Chautauquans, and join in the glorious work which is in marvelous measure leavening the land.

NEW ENGLAND ASSEMBLY.

The “Chautauqua Idea” is taking deep root in the soil of New England. Four years ago the first Assembly was held on the grounds of the Framingham Campmeeting Association. There was a fair attendance, and considerable enthusiasm. Each year has been an improvement. The number in attendance has been greater, and the interest has been on the increase. This year has been the best of all. Almost from the first the lodging accommodations were taxed to their utmost in providing for the unexpectedly large numbers. The gentleman in charge of the dormitory stated to the writer that he had a greater rush the first day of the Assembly, this year, than he had the first week of last year. Thus it continued during the ten days. It is therefore safe to conclude, that in a financial way, the meeting was a success beyond its predecessors.

The work of the various departments was done efficiently by Dr. Vincent, in charge, assisted by Dr. Hurlbut, and Prof. Holmes, at the head of the normal classes; Prof. Sherwin at the front with a magnificent chorus of nearly two hundred voices; Frank Beard with a drawing class of one hundred and fifty; and the platform occupied by such men as Prof. Richards, Dr. Lyman Abbott, Dr. Angell, Wallace Bruce, Dr. Hull, Dr. J. B. Thomas, Dr. Tiffany, Prof. Young, A. O. Van Lennep, and others. A feast of good things was to be expected, and we were not disappointed.

One of the enjoyable features of the Assembly was Rev. O. S. Baketel’s lecture on “Sights and Insights at Chautauqua,” illustrated with eighty stereopticon views. They were shown with the calcium light, and an audience of four thousand people sat for an hour and three quarters, hearing and seeing. It created a great deal of interest, both with old Chautauquans and the many who have never seen Chautauqua.

Prof. Sherwin had several very excellent soloists, and his chorus was exceptionally fine.

One of the new buildings this year is the C. L. S. C. office. This is a very neat structure, and greatly appreciated by those having in charge the C. L. S. C. It was usually crowded during office hours. About five hundred members of the Circle were present during the Assembly. One hundred and sixty-five joined the Class of 1887. Thirty-eight members of the graduating class were present and received their diplomas from the hands of Dr. Vincent. The Class of 1884 are thoroughly organized, and are looking forward to a grand time when next year’s bells shall ring in their festal day.

As usual, Mrs. Rosie M. Baketel had charge of the C. L. S. C. office. This is her third year in this position. She is one of the hardest workers on the grounds.

The presence of Dr. Vincent is always an inspiration to a Framingham audience. Though compelled to return to Chautauqua after the opening, he gave us a grand “send-off,” and his presence and labors when he returned again were greatly enjoyed.

ONE OF 1882.

HOW WE CAME TOGETHER.

[The following poem, from Counselor W. C. Wilkinson’s
volume, recently published by Messrs. Charles
Scribner’s Sons, tells the story of the author’s first
meeting with a friend of his, who is also a friend
of every reader of THE CHAUTAUQUAN—the Rev. John H.
Vincent, D.D. The friendship thus formed, not less
than twenty years ago, endures yet between the two as
vivid as ever. It is bearing fruit not then anticipated
in the associated labors which they perform for the
Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle.]

Thorwaldsen’s Lion, gray and grim,
Rock in his rocky lair,
On who would rend his lily from him,
Glowered out with dying glare.

I mused awhile the sculptured stone,
My pilgrim staff in hand;
Then turned to hold my way alone,
And lone, from land to land.

But God had other hap in store:
Even as I turned I met
A manly eye ne’er seen before—
I seem to see it yet!

Vanish the changeful years between,
Like morning-smitten rack;
As, morning-like, that crescent scene
Comes dawning swiftly back.

Again, above, that mellow noon
And soft Swiss heaven doth yearn;
Frowns still on us in pilgrim shoon
The Lion of Lucerne.

Once more each other’s hands we take,
The pass-words fly betwixt;
Though slack the speed that speech may make,
When heart with heart is mixed.

I see the green Swiss lake asleep
With Righi in her dream;
We cross the lake, we climb the steep
To watch the world agleam.

The paths are many up the slope,
And many of the mind,
We catch the flying clue of hope,
And wander where they wind.

The paths are fresh, the pastures green,
In walk or talk traversed;
The Alpland meadow’s grassy sheen
With many a streamlet nursed,

And the fair meadows of the soul
Forever fresh with streams
From the long heights of youth that roll,
The Righi-Culm of dreams.

We speak of summits hard to gain,
And, gained, still hard to keep;
Of pleasure bought with glorious pain,
Of tears ’twas heaven to weep;

And of a blessed Heavenly Friend
Who, struggling with us still,
Would break the blows else like to bend
The lonely human will;

Or with some sudden vital touch,
At pinch of sorest need,
Would lift our little strength to much,
And energize our deed.

Our talk flows on, through strain or rest,
As up the steep we go;
Each untried track of thought seems best
In hope’s prelusive glow.