8
THE BATTALION.
PUBLIC MEETING OF THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION.
This came off at 8:30 p. m. was well attended and much
interest was shown. Mr. Kyle elected by the first class
made the opening address, welcoming them to the college,
this was responded to by Chairman Smith of Denison and
afterwards Judge Chas. Rogan was introduced as orator of
the day and made a fine address.
TUESDAY.
This day proved as auspicious as the previous ones. At
10 o’clock the battalion was formed and marched to chapel
to witness the graduating exercises. Hon. L. T. Dashiell
who was to deliver the commencement address did not put in
his appearance; no news was received of him and the author
ities were at a loss to account for his not appearing. Mr.
Dean, member of the legislature from this district was called
upon and nobly responded. Though not having more than
half an hours notice, he produced an eloquent, patriotic and
well suited address. Mr. Todd the honor graduate then read
his thesis,subject,“The maintenance of orchard soil fertility.”'
Mr. Todd’s thesis fulfilled all expectations. Gov. Ross then
said it is not a common thing among so many boys for one to
be called upon so much but now the honor graduate is the
valedictorian. Too much cannot be said in praise of Mr.
Todd’s address, it was a valedictory in the true sense of the
word. The response by Mr. Durham was replete in beautiful
words and true human sentiment. Diplomas and degrees
were next confered by the president of the board of direct
ors upon the twenty-six graduates.
At 5 p. m. was fought the successful sham battle.
A drill of the Ross Volunteers followed later. It is need
less to say that the “Rosses” maintained their fine reputa
tion. They gave in addition to the usual exercises of the
manual and the bayonet a gun drill by music.
Graduating dress parade followed and then presentation
of presents oy companies to their captains, this over the boys
marched up to the armory to put up their guns and the 2lst