The meeting was held in Central Church. A large and intelligent audience was present, and entered fully into the spirit of the occasion.
The orations were exceedingly well written and delivered. The oration of Rev. A. E. P. Albert, a graduate from our classical and theological department, on the subject, “Senator Jones’ speech, or is there to be a war of races?” was a surprise even to Mr. Albert’s friends, on account of its brilliancy, its vigorous thought and sustained eloquence. It is to be published in full in one of our city papers, and I wish all unbelievers in the mental capacity of the African would read it and pass upon its merits.
Wednesday noon occurred the Literary Exhibition in the University Chapel. What a storm raged without! It seemed as though the flood-gates were opened. We had it almost entirely to ourselves, only a few good friends venturing to face the tempest. The orations, compositions, dialogues, and select readings evinced decided talent in writing and speaking.
In the evening a concert was given at the church, with a few literary exercises. The musical programme was judiciously arranged, and was thoroughly appreciated by an audience of six hundred people.
The year has marked an advance in scholarship, and the University has acquired a firmer foothold in the city and state.
If we are quick to discern and seize upon opportunities of enlargement, the immediate future will furnish abundant room for the employment of busy hands and devoted hearts.
TILLOTSON INSTITUTE, AUSTIN, TEXAS.
BY JUDGE C. T. GARLAND.
The Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute has closed its first full year since the building of Allen Hall, and its Texas friends are full of congratulations on the progress made.