13. Our Colored Troops: Deserving of freedom because they fight like men.
Response by Lieut. Wakeman.
Song: “Babylon is fallen.”
The party, after selecting a few simple trophies, such as fig-branches for walking-canes, large pond-lilies, flowers, wreaths, and bouquets, returned to the landing, and re-embarked for Vicksburg.
CLOSING EXERCISES.
On the boat, the following business was transacted:—
Vote of thanks to Col. Thomas and staff for getting up the celebration; to the Orator of the Day, Parson Livermore; to the President, Rev. Dr. Warren, who made a brief response; and also to Capt. Wightman an officers of “The Diligent.”
The following song was then sung by a young contraband:—
“We heard de proclamation, massa hush it as he will:
De bird he sing it to us, hoppin’ on de cotton-hill;