Subsequently they proceeded to Judith, Lady Montefiore's Theological College, where the lecture hall was brilliantly illuminated. A profusion of choice flowers, tastefully arranged between numerous lights on steps in the bay window, gave it a charming appearance.
The Principal of the College held a special service, and addressed the assembly on the events of the day, concluding with a heartfelt prayer for the life of Sir Moses, in which all fervently joined.
With this service the religious celebrations of the day terminated.
The residents in the town and neighbourhood, the relatives and friends of Sir Moses, now assembled at a public banquet given in St George's Hall, under the presidency of the Mayor. During dinner the latter received a message, which he read to his guests. "Sir Moses wishes to send a message of friendly greeting to the Mayor of Ramsgate, and to his guests assembled this evening. He desires to drink a glass of wine with them, and wishes good health and prosperity to them and to the town. He regrets much that he is unable to be present with them to-night." The message was received with hearty cheers, and the Mayor proposed the toast of the evening, which was received with much enthusiasm, and acknowledged by Mr Joseph Sebag.
In the course of the evening a torch-light procession was formed at the Town Hall, and marched up to East Cliff, where a grand display of fireworks took place, the spot specially selected for it being not far from the bay window of Sir Moses' bedroom, to enable him to see it from his chair. The whole town was illuminated.
Thus the day passed in perfect happiness for Sir Moses and those who had taken part in the festivities. For the latter the sight of this grand old centenarian, who had won so much honour, esteem, and friendship, will never be effaced from their memory.
Great and numerous, however, as were all these manifestations of veneration and affection for Sir Moses in England and other parts of the world, the feeling must surely have arisen in the minds of many that the lights which illuminated the streets would soon be extinguished, the voices of the brilliant orators again be silent, the flowers which had this day decorated many a Synagogue become faded, and the words of the preachers forgotten; while the numerous charitable and educational institutions, which the recipient of so much homage had called into existence all over the world, will remain, and, while benefiting mankind in a high degree, will serve to keep alive the memory of his unselfish devotion.
The following morning he was better than could reasonably be expected after such an exciting event, but he was anxious to convey his sense of gratitude to the thousands who had honoured him with their congratulations, and at once gave orders for the purpose. His medical attendant, however, strongly advised him to refrain from too much exertion, and he wisely consented to remain quiet for some time.
Relatives and friends suggested that measures should be adopted by which he should be relieved of the necessity of answering his many correspondents. When weak and ailing he agreed to what they proposed, but the moment he felt a little stronger he invariably insisted on continuing his good work.