The New York Herald Newspaper, June 24, 1874, Page 3

7 , THE COLLEGES. Dedication of Memorial Hall at Harvard. INTERESTING EXERCISES. An Oration by Charles Francis Adams. YALE CLASS DAY. A Brilliant Attendance at the Dis- tribution of Prizes. THE VASSAR LADIES. ‘Meeting of the Alumni of Union College. Yesterday's Proceedings at the Colleges of the City of New York and Princeton, COLLEGE OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK. Growing youthful enthustasm in anything per- taining to a collegiate education as well as undi- Minished ardor of older heads, to say notning of ‘the never ceasing interest of young ladies in the Matter, served to fill Booth’s Thestre last evening, motwithstanding the uncomiortable heat, to ite fallest capacity, the occasion being the annual prize speaking of our youthful but popular institu- tuon of learning, yclept the College of the City of New York. Like most occasions of this character, given up to intellectual displays, the proceedings ‘were, taken as a whole, rather heavy and dull; Dut then the weather must be considered, and again, youthful essays and oratorical efforts, how- ever near the former may approach to the excel- lence of Macaulay and the latter come up to ‘the standard of a Beecher, an Emmett or a Patrick Heary, are hardly the things fora hot summer's Right. However, if some were in reality bored, a spirited show of interest was kept up, and as the young contributors to the evening’s intellectual @ntertainment made their entrances and their exits they were warmly applauded, and from par- quest and dress circle sparkling eyes amid mazes of moving fans looked on approvingly, and this ‘was the battie half won. Occupying the platform ‘were the faculty and many well known citizens con- s@picuous for their interest in the cause of public education. Opening the evening’s intetlectual feast, suc- ceeding the usual preliminaries of music and a prayer, was the reading of the Riggs prize essays by their authors, The first one read was by Wil- bur Larremore, of the Junior class, his subject, which was put interrogatively, being, “How far may the best literature of the present century be Tegarded as the fruit of a careful study of older Masterpieces?” He treated his subject, which, ‘after all is not so intellectually appalling as at Orst @lance it may seem, with great candor and fair- mess. He gave the old masters a far more serious consideration than they are given in the “Inno- cents Abroad.” He gave those “old fellers,” as Mark Twain calls them, a good deal of credit, but yet insistea that some of our best writers, as -Charies Dickens, for instance, was mot under much obligation to them. But then he approved of improving genius and of trimming its lamp. Altogether it was a very good essay, solid, researching, spirited and evidently original, The next of these essays was read by Samson Lachman of the senior class. His topic ‘was also presented in the popular conundrum form as doliow: “What ideas originating in feudalism and chivalry still favorably influence civilization in the United States?” He, too, went back to auld Jong syne. A very graphic picture was given of the old feudal days and the knights of the middle ages on their gaily caparisoned chargers. He traced ‘with clearness the ideas of that old time finding their impress now on our modern Civilization, Prose declamations followed. There was more Ife in these, more animation, more interest. “The Impeachment of Warren Hastings,” b; Albert Philip, of the Sophomore class, was weil recited. That great scene in English history was vividiy portrayed. His gesticulation, which was too stiff and formal, somewhat marred it. There was general disappointment when Charles 0. Rushmore came on to the stage, of diminutive figure and a voice suggestive of John Randolph, it ‘was not to be supposed he would make much of cus to the Envoys.”” But there pointment. That little figure grew in proportions and that shrill voice sent goon a mulous thrill through the vast audience. The succeeding decilamations were ‘The Spirit of Anti-Slavery,” by Carl Schurz, by Haniord Craw- ford; “The Gladiator” of Kellogg, by Louis Werner, both juniors; “The Death Penalty” of Victor Hugo, by William T. Rodenbach, and “The Declaration of Irish Rights,” of Grattan, by Charles W. Rush, the last two speakers belongin; to the senior class. All spoke very well and wit! an easy grace of delivery rarely surpagsell among ‘the students of our older colleges. Ooncludi the evening’s programme were poetry declamations. There were three of these respectively by members of the sep tamcre, junior and ‘senior classes. James M. Smith” dirst ve. “The Mantle of St. John de Mar- fa by Whittier; George N. Morsitor gave “The ton,” from Schiller, and Joseph Eastman, the “Island of the Scots,” from Aytoun. Reciting poetry requires a higher order of de- clamatory art than prose recitations, These pra T adeh belg though not a Bellew or a Booth, and though not always catching mghtly the spirit Of certain passages, acquitted themselves exceed- ingly wel 4 prolonged programme made it late when the exercises concluded, but the audience continued to linger ana the interest was undiminished to the close, The judges for the occasion are Nathaniel Jarvis, Jr.; James W. Gerard and Allen Campbell. PRINCETON COLLEGE. PRINCETON, June 23, 1874. ‘There was a large and influential attendance at the Commencement exercises to-day. The events of the day were the delivery of Dr. Jacobus’ ora- tion and the unveiling of the bust of Dr. McLean. At eleven o’clock a procession was formed to the Presbyterian church, adjoining the college grounds. ‘The church was filled with a very attentive au- aitory. DR. JACOBUS’ ORATION. Dr. Jacobus occupied nearly an hour in his de- livery. He alluded, at the outset, to his own a@raduation, forty years ago, in early boyhood, and gave a sketch of the college buildings and usages in his time. This afforded an opportunity for mak ing @ reference to the improvements now made im the college buildings, at a cost of over $1,000,000, This was followed by a pian for the urther endow- ment and equipment of the college. The subject announced tor the oration was ‘ihe Higher Kdu- cation.” A teat was jound in the scientific hatl now building in the College grounds, This, said the Ductor, was the type and fitting exponent of the coliege. He commented on the new basis of scientific education as an overthrow of the old systems and on the basis of man’s relation to the lower animals. Sctence calculates transits and eclipses, and properly glorifies its methods of posi- — pled ia io th 4 the evenin; ‘ery large audience assemble: to listen to the Junior Orations. To-morrow, the 127th annuai Commencement, at gine M., the procession wil be formed at the liege chapel and move to the First Presbyterian church, yee yg A Anak ETD orations ‘will be ‘onoanced, eg ed aud the prizes aoa Jeliowships announced, prize Seate will reserved on the main floor of the eharch for the processton only. Gentiemen desir- ing seats will therefore take their piaces in the ssion Where assigned by the marshal. The galleries of tbe ohurch will be reserved for the ladies exclusively. Admission only by tickets * assigning to reserved seate. During the Commencement exercises there will be an intermission of fiiteen minutes, but no ad- ie The close of this intermission will be indicated by the ringing pf the college bell, Aiumni dinner at hal-past two o’clock P. M., In Dickingon Hail. Application for tickets may be made to the marshal and Reception Committee. In the college chapel, at <hree o'clock, there was a meeting of the Alamni, immediately after Which Dr. DnMeia nrasented she bust of Dr, | Of which the old and familiar NEW YORK HERALD, _WEDN McLean, whieh was unveiled with appropriave ceremonies. HARVARD DEDICATION DAY. Boston, Mass., June 28, 1874. To-day the Fellows and faculty of old Harvard dedicated the new Memoria! Hall, erected in com- memoration of those graduates of the institution who fought and those who died on the battle fleld | during the late rebellion. And it may be said to | her honor that the list of those noble men who ylelded up themselves to death and duty is a very long one. No better marx of recognition could | be raised, therefore, than this beautiful hall, which, wiile it will remain for generations as a testimony of valor and intelligence, will also serve to embellish the grand square at Cam- bridge. The buiiding ia built of black and red brick, the window tracery and copings being of Nova Scotia stone. When the theatre has been completed the hall will pe 310 feet long and over a hundred feet in width. The memorial transept is 122 feet long, 30 feet wide, 60 fect higb, and has a tower surmounting it of about 200 feet in height. The dining ‘fall is to be large enough to seat from 800 to 1,000 persons, and ts 164 feet long, 60 ‘eet wide and 80 feet high. The architectural beauties of the imterior of the buliding are in keeping with its libera! dimensions, The wide spanning arches of the banquet hali are of ash, and also the stairs and galleries, The staining of the windows has been aelicately executed. In the upper part of the ortel at the west end, in circleta, the college seal has been imitated, reading, Sigitiwm scade- t™e Harvardine tn Nov, Ang.—Christo oe ec- clesia. At the east end of the grand banqoet hall a nar- row door of biack walnut leads into the memorial transept. This is also entered by heavy double doorways from the outside, one at each end. Entering from the south end one is impressed at once with the majestic Gothic arches that interlace high overnead the broad arched spaces in the walls with their Latin inscriptions, the siained windows, the marble floor with its broad squares of white and black, and the memorial tablets which bear the names of the dead heroes. ‘The western Wallis occupied by five Gothic atches, the middle one being filled by the doorway ito the banquet hall. The groundwork of these arched spaces is a subdued greenish yellow, and the numerous Latin inscriptions are in brown letters of aatique furm, THE DEDICATION OBREMONIES. The beaatiiul weather had the effect of attract- ing agreat number of lashionable viditors to the dedication of this splendid structure this afternoon, At bali-past two the Alumni of Harvard College, with their friends, and @ ja) body of students, assembled in Massachusetts from the walis tings belonging to the institution had been transferred to the new building. ‘Twenty-three maretials bad been se- lected or the occasion, and tne arrangements, as finally carried out, were v creditasie to their judgment. A band was in attendance, and played various lively selections. At about half-past three o'clock the marshals commenced to form the pro- cession, as it was to prosset to the new and it starved in vhe following order:— ORDER OF PROORSSION, Band. Chiet Maraval and Aids. President of the Association of the Alumni, and Orator ot the Day. Chaplains of # Committee of Fit e: by the Chairman ot the Commitee of Pity and of the Building Committee. tees of the Sanders Fund. President and Fellows of Warrant College. estdent and Fellows of Harva: & The Honorable and Reverend Overseers. His Honor the Lieutenant Governor of the Common- wealth, and Alda, Ex-Presidenis of the University. Present and Past Officers of Insiruction Government in the University. Officers of the United states Army and Navy. Invited Officers of a ne, Order of the Loyal on. Inyited Officers of the Grand Army of the Republic. Subscribers to the Memorial Fund, not Alama Mayor, Aldermen and President of the Common Council of the city of Cambridge, preceded by the sheriff of ese x. Other gentlemen specially invited. Stadents of Harvard Unive who served in the Army and Navy daring the Jar of tho Rebellion, ° Alumai of H: ard G lege, ‘nthe on yt their classes, order o} of Barttadents of ihe University. ‘Se THE EXERCISES. There wasa slignt delay in seating the are body of peopie in att in Memorial Hall, ie but the aamirable plans of the marshals and their assistants prevented all confusion, All being seated at length, the Handel and Saydn Society, at a signal trom the chief marshal, commenced 1 opening verse of Beethoven’s grand anes Chorus” (Mount of Olives), The Rev. .Heory Bel- lows offered prayer, on the labor of love a8 rey ited by the building then to be dedicatea to the noble work of civiliz- ing and Christianizing. The choir then rendered the chorus from the oratorio of “St. Paul” by Men- delsaobn :— Happy and blest are they who have endured, For though the body dies, the soul shall Inve forever. Mr. H. B, Rogers read the report o! the Butlding Committee. In rejerence to the progress of the work he said :— The central vestibule, sacred to the memory of those who fell In the war, this noble hall tor the use of the alumni and undergraduates, the tower, the several Tooms for the corporation, overscers and’ committees— indeed, the whole edifice, with the exception of tho theatre, is now so tar finished as to admit ot immediate occupancy; and measures are in progress by which, 1t is hoped, their use, under proper guarantees and fe- strictions, may be legally and satist ly secured to the ’ colfese during the time that must elapse before the remaining portion of the bulid- ing. can be completed. Notwithstanding an vorable circumstances, the cellar and the foundatio Were begun in the spring of 1870 and the corner stone was laid, with appropriate ceremonies, on the 6th of October of that year; the walls of the dining hall were raised and covered in during the autumn of 1871; the memorial vestibule, with the four small towers and ‘the great central tower, was built and roofed be fore the winter of 1872 and the greater portion of the in- eriof Anish was pus up before the close of the year 1818. From the report of the treasurer it appears that the Cost of the building as it now stands, including commis- sions, insurance and extras, has been $200,000, wich is Jess than the estimate originally made for thr portion of the work. In addition to this there nas been ex- ended for land purchased of the Jarvis heirs, tor a round, $13,000, thus making the total outlay The report of the Committee of Fifty was read by their chairman, Mr. J. G. Palfrey. After refer- qr ng to the formation of the committee on July 19, 1865, the report read :— On the 6th of October, 1870, when the corner stone was laid of the building in Which we mect to-day, the com- mittee in their report submitted a general account ot the plans which had been determined upon and of their proceedings down to that time. Two portions of the projected structure are now completed, the dining hall and the Memorial Hall proper ; and the committee, with the advice of counsel, have made an arrangement’ with the president and teliows for the use and occupation ot it by the college. Asit now stands it has cost a sum somewhat exceeding $30,000 At the business meeting of the Association of Alumni to-morrow the treasurer will make a detailed report of receipts and outlays, Thé committee are not unmindtul of a part of their commission remaining unaccomplished. They have taken measures, to be consummated in due time, for connecting in the grateful memory of future times with this solid pile, the names of those Whom the havoc which bereit us of their comrades has spared to render turther services to their country and confer further honor on the Fair Mother wno sent them from her home on the way of virtue and duty, and who proudly counts over her store of jewels again to-day beneath her own Foot. The “Heavens are Telling,” @ chorus from Alaydo’s “Creation,” was next rendered by the society in a splendid manner, after which the President introduced the orator of the day, the. Hon. Charles Francis Adams, who was received with great enthusiasm, On standing forward Mr. Adams said:— MR. ADAMS’ ADDRESS, We gather once more in our old haunts, so long consecrated to the arts of peace. All around us we note the evidence of constant expansion going’ on during two centuries and a half of unceasing labor to multiply facilities for developing the sov- ereign powers of intellect and of conscience im- planted in our race. In this long interval have come hither the patient seekers after wis- dom, zealous to pick out of the piles of ancient lore those seeds of truth which they might atterwards spread broadvast ainong their neighbors in the land. It is neediess at this day to recapitulate the cir- cumstances under which our brethren long ago entered into the two earher struggles. We are not engaged in perpetuating their memory in associa- tion with these walla. Enough to say that even Without it the record of their self-devotion is as sacredly preserved in our hearts, Neither do I be- lieve that the descendants even of our antagunists Of those days, inthe mother country, would now be disposed to question that whatever honors we might bestow by od them in any form were fully deserved at our hands, But let this be as it may, tam ready to admit that our responsibility for the course taken in the two earlier struggles was as nothing when compared with that in tne deplor- able conflict in which our immediate comrades fell. It was no longer an appeal to force imposed Upon us by an older branch of the race separated from Us by a wide ocean and the parties organized under distinct forms ol government were prac- tically Pg endangered by the result, This jater the total built up in common, and under which all had for three-quarters of & century enjoyed Privileges of protection to life, liberty and prop- erty, such a8 have seldom contributed to promote the happiness of mankind, It 1s no of my ur to enter upon an examination of the, have ever read or heard of, in the annals of man- kind, was there @ more general aversion in the great body of the people involved in It to resort to violence than in this. This remark I mean to apply quite as fully to the citizens of the slave Beates, excepting, perhaps, the single case of bouth Carolina, a8 to those of the iree States, How much hard labor was spent by a few hot- headed and desperate spirits, concentraied at Washington and a tew other capitals of the States, by studied misrepresentations of the intentions of the party then coming iuto power, to spread alien- ation among their constituency, and bow little they conceived the possibilty of entailing upon themselves by their action the gigantic struggle which followed, I had some little opportunity to observe. In point of fact the passions of tae peo- ple in the larger States could not be stirred up, Heither eould a decisive step nave been reached except by resorting to contrivances. ‘The most marked instance vu! this was the dramatic dis- charge Of @ gun, nominally against Fort Sumter, but aimed by a Virginian much more directly at the reluctant and wavering majority of the con- vention in his own State It was this act which completed the alienation. But the performers litte conceived that at the same instant they had overcome the almost lethargic aversion of great multitudes everywhere in the tree States credit the possibility of the pepraence of any oh hostility at all outside of Soutv Carolina, 1 ve ventured upon what some of you may think an irrelevant topic on this occasion tor two rea- sons. The first show that at no time prior to to the war or since has there been any deep-seated malevolence existing between any cousideraole umber of ple, iet them be where they may. Hence there is no danger to a complete restora- tion of good feeling trom elevating memoriais of this kind. The second to show that ip the commemoration now made in honor of the youths whose Mt wae to per- jer in the is no spirit of Struggle, there pride or exultation in successful warlike achieve- ment, however brilliant, or of satisfaction in the suites of our bretbren less fortunate else- where, but purely a desire to perpetuate the re- membrances of those sone of our: cull who were induced by considerations of puolic duty alone to leave the pursuits for which their educa- tion had destined mM, and to rigk all the happy Prospects opening to them in iite for the single ect of ahieg to uphold the fundamental laws of the jana, BLESSED BE GoD this fearful trial has passed over us, It may for a moment have been mixed with more or less of bit- terness inseparable irom antagonism. Hut as I have maintained that among the great body of the nation it was not felt before the struggle began, so I tuily believe that from the day of pacification it rapidly melted away. We would be among the firat to deplore any evil consequences that may have attenued the social changes tnat bave taken place in some of the States by the aggravation of selish intruders, holding no stake in the soll, and to in- outs the hope that the time is not distant when we shall welcome the feat fouth of those genial climes as we did of yore, to take their full share Of ail the advantages we labor to muitiply tor all onr own. There 6 no feeling here but one of sym- thy and good will to all our brethren wherever hey may be. There ie, then, no aang when ‘we who sedulously soliow only the quate of peace ow associate with this grand edifice the memory O1 those who fell@ sacrifice to the misfortune of this fearfal war. They left these scenes little dreaming of any iuture disconnected with duties incident to a community quietly sheltered under the shield of law. lt is probable that the larger number had not yet been animated even by the lUghter emotions stirred up in the customary in politics, But party antagonism a few had caught the enthusiasm inspired by the great reforming movement of that day, or approved its vehemence. The were called out mainly ws the tocsin_ whic! sounded the alarm that the State was in danger. ‘rhe lessons they had learned here had inspired them with a profound respect for authority, especially when once deliberately establisned by consent, and a frm conviction of the obligation to uphola it by common co-operation against every assault. Hence, when the ory of dapger came it Was a noble, anexaited tmpulse which prompted them, setting aside all secondary considerations of satety and honor in purely civil pursuits, to ae- Vote all their powers to the one patriotic end of helping to hold up the HONORED INSTITUTIONS OF THE LAND. Hence it is that not because any and all these young men embarked in military enterprises do we award them a permanent remembrance here, nor yet for any services rendered in the vocation, however brilliant, There would have been no room for thetr names had they repeated the career whether of Alexander of Macedon or Na- poleon Bonapar‘e or even of Julius Cesar, those mighty scourges of mankind. No. it 18 the pay of the motive that inspired these no le young. men in a holy cause that earus for them the meed we pay to their heroism. How few of us who follow the common paths of life aspire so high! They are not heroes who hazard lie and fortune for fame or for guid, for praise or for power. ‘They are the true heroes who place all their ua ATS this world on the stake of the salvation of their country, and aim at no prize beyond the maintenance of the publip good. We award these honors in no narrow, self- Tratulatory seuse, We do so to invite emulation well doing eqi in all our ssate-of wherever the gem Iné order for advance may ae- velop any useful force, nd matter what its origin. But if any youth, ambitious to excel, elect to turn their steps hitherward they will be met in acor- responding spirit, no matter from whence they come; whether irom the fiery proximity of the tropics or the thrilling regions of thick-ribbed ice, from the sands aud rocks vordering either ocean or the loftier ranges of the central mountains, These peaceful groves will yield their grateful shade to all alike who may seek them as @ solace for even the sternest intellectual labor. These recording marbles will revive the faith ever and anon fainting under the effort of reaching the bigher realms of human speculation, and stimulate to nobler endsall earnest souls zealous to be them- seives inscribed among the brilliant examples of their race. Neither in THIS BOUNDLESS FIELD OF ANTICIPATION, let us confine our aspirations within the limits of one Continent, Let us hope that, in the propor- tion in which the marvellous advance of science continues to throw down the artificial barriers that have been set up in barbarous times to divide and separate the nations, our efforts may be more apd more directed to the work of smoothing away such distinctions by presenting honorable induce- ments 1o all lovers of learning and of progress, no matter what their origin, to enter upon the wide region for improvement yet lying untrodden here. And now may I be permitted to stop in my task, in order to dwell for a Moment upon a pleasing recoliection of one too early lost, alas! to nis myriads Of iriends and disciples made here, a na- tive of another republic and @ far-off continent drawn tous by the temptation of the wide pros- pect of scientific investigation ana discovery open- ing to him in America. Agassiz was an enthu- siast in his pursuit, and yet had a spirit of perse- verance which steadily directed zeal for observation to the attainment .of useful re- sults, His enthusiasm, likewise, was of that broad and genial kind which created him @ teacher, binding his pupils in an electric chain. It was of his labors that he re- marked to me, not long before we lost him, his object had been so to extend their results and concentrate them at one point on this continent, that nowhere else could the same facilities fora full knowledge of the subject he observation be aflorded to students. Hence be looked forward to @ time when the ordinary course of travel might be changed, and the young seekers for this kind of learning, instead oi going from here to Europe to improve by visiting the superior sources there sup- plied, would be found making their way over to this side to observe and to profit by treasures not to be found anywhere but here. Now this is precisely the sort of ambition that secures the most glorious advantages to great seats of learning. 0, that our countrymen could like- Wise be stimulated by such an enthusiasm in quest of any heroic pursuit! For in this his devo- tion to science he was stirred by no selfish end whatever. Milliona might have been poured at his feet. He would have picked them up only for the purpose of enlarging the means of knowledge in his deparment of science, and making it the most complete on the face of the earth, Here, then, was indeed another hero, Why, then, you may ask, not associate him too with the memories of this noble hally Why not? Because he has been beforenand with us. He has built up his own monument in yonder edifice, almost within our reach. There and there only will the heroism of Agassiz ve properly appre- ciated, There and there only can his spirit vivify the energies of those who aspire to emulate bis career. We now solemnly dedicate this edifice in accordance with the original design of its pro- Jectors, as MEMORIAL HALL, Long may its walls enaure, baptized as they are with the purest blood in the land! Long may they remain to gather new proofs of the effect of edu- cation to exalt the noblest impulses implanted by the great Creator of all thingsin the minds and hearts of nis children! Long may these portals lie open to welcome from every side those panting to excel in any labor honorable to mankind! May the names now associated with the infancy of the edifice serve but as brilliant precursors of others equally associated with action held most precious in all buman esteem! May they shine with inex- tinguishable light as beacons to guide the march of coming generations to the end of time! At the conclusion of the oration the whole as- sembly joined in singing the following verses, Specially written for the occasion by Oliver Wen- ell Holmes :— Where, girt around by savage foes, Our nurturing Mothers shelter rose, Behold the lofty temple stands, Reared by her children's grateful hands! Firm are the pillars that dety The volleyed thunders of the sky; Sweet are the summer wreaths that twine With bud and our martyrs’ shrine. ‘The hues their tatte: olors bore Fall mingitug on the stilt oor yi ite of this conflict, Knough for the immediate occaston to say that the difference had its remote origin in a practice commenced in barbarous times, which no one in the present day will be found likely to defend, for the inception of which in America neither side was responsible. What I wish to affirm apropos to the present occasion, is, and I do it trom sincere conviction foundea upon some means of observation, that down to the very momem of breaking out of hostilities, there had been at no time and nowhere any spirit of enmity engendered between those who ultimately fought with each other, which would naturally have prompted a resort to such extremities, Nay, | will go further aud bold): Auseverate that in no conflict Of the king which ‘ill evening spreads her spangled pall, And wraps in'shade the ariel, hah. Firm were their-hearts to danger’s hour. Sweet was their maahood’s morning flower, ‘Their hopes with rainbow hues wore bright How swiftly winged the sudden night! © Mother! on thy marble page Thy children read, from age to ago. The mighty word that upward leads ‘Through noble thought to nobler deeds, Truth, heayen-born Truth, their foarless guide, aneee ed ; Qurt love has reared rthly shrine, ‘heir glory be forever ! The exercises were conciuded with the benedic- tion, pronounced py the Rev. James Walker, aD. a aT ener Cate sr ena one noe knew nKSns wEnISTTN ry Sent ESDAY, JUNE 24, 1874.—-TRIPLE SHEET. CLASS DAY AT YALE. New Haven, June 23, 1874. The day that the Seniors have patiently looked forward to for the last four years hag at length come, and the morning was as beautiful aud bright as could be desired, though the rain in the after- noon was @ damper to the proceedings. From | time immemorial this has been the day when the | new-fledged graduates bid farewell to each other and to everything that has made their lives so pleasant, Petty jealousies are buried, unkind words are forgotten, and all mingle together in @ grand series of festivities given on tnis their Class Day. Those whom they love and whose memories are ever cher- tshed by them when separated are present to- day, and by their beauty, their generous sympathy and unmixed pleasure, make tie day seem even more pleasant. At eleven o’clock this morning, amid the music by the band and the ringing of the | old cohlege bell, the Seniors formed tn front ot the college buildings, and, marching into the chapel, occupied the seats reserved for them. The building was completely jammed with young ladies, old ladies, and ladies of the medinm sphere, flere | was one who had a brother who wasthe poet. Here was another who was the cousin.of the ora- tor. Thereamotner was proudly admiring her son, and there a father was looking with an air of satisfaction on the som upon whom he had spent 80 much money in order that he might graduate. All bad an interest in the programme, and were amply repaid for the little discomfort they under- went on account of the hard seats of the chapel, Ex-President Woolsey, President Perter and mem- bers of the corporation and faculty were present. PROCREDINGS IN THE CHAPEL. Alter a prayer by the President the class poet ‘was introduced. His name is George Darius Reid, of SheMeld, Conn., and he chose for bis subject “Athens/’ The poem was fully up to the average of such college productions, His closing verses to his-class were received with great enthusiasm and interest and were entirely free from assuming affected language. The orator of the day was Henry Harger Ragan, of Turin, N. Y., who spoke on “Republican Liberty.”” The oration, although not a model of its kind, is imstructive in showing how tne student who desires to avoid the glaring error of plagiarism in ite worst aspect must labor at history and modern facts before attempting to present a discourse that Must tnevitaply be severely criticised. Aiter dealing with ‘divine ht”? in @ manner that would have caused Henri Cinq to shake his drapeau hysterical defiance frompnis barontal house- top at Frohsdorf, graduate Ragan said in reference to republicanism :— It has not been proved that republican govern- ment can be maintained by every nation to which the system may seem attractive, or by any nation without serious effort on the part of its citizens. Un the contrary a thousand weaknesses’have been re- vealed, which threaten the life of a {ree state, a thousand dangers which can only be avoided by the utmost care and skill. The perils of popular government are not all at the outset; they are not over when once 8 prosperous start has been made; they can never be wholly paat. An influence which to-day is harmless may to-morrow destroy the na- tion. We have papersd wonderfully for 100 years; but what of that? Many a republic nas lived longer, ana yet, in the end perished miserably. There are dangers yet to be faced more serious than any that we have thus far encountered. We naturally turn to ask how this liberty can best be preserved. To us, wno this day step into the ranks ofactive life and take upon ourselves the responsibilities as well as the privileges of American citizens, the question is most pertinent. Anything like @ full and savisfactory answer is, of course, far beyond the powers ol any one of us, All that I can hope to do is to point out radely and most imperfectly some of the modes in which, as it appears to me, we, @s American citizens, may bee pecte our country and the cause of popular rey. The first thought that fueron itselfia, that, in respect to many of the duties of catizensbip, American citizens need to be more conservative. By conservatism Jdo not mean mere hanging back in the race, mere dragging upon the wheeis of progress, but active, thoughtful effort to keep the government under the rule of mind, The ideal conservative I conceive tobe him who re- fases to take a ste} til is reasgnab! \ that it wit be & a afvance: who ‘declines ¥0 make a change tn@il he is persuaded that tt will. be an iupeereers: who takes care, rather to‘ secure and preserve what be nas siroady gained, ‘0 grasp more at the risk of losing all. Nor 18 such cont opposed to progress. The not put a stop to progress if he would, What he can do, and what, ior the good of big count But there. 1s need of conservatism in other re- spects, In our zeal to extend the blessings of our institutions to all mankind we have thrown our doors wide open and lavished upon every comer not only more than jusvice or benevolence could require, but more than is consistent with safety to ourselves. It ts Said that the spirit in which our institutions were conceived forbids that we should shut them up to our own exclusive use. And 80 14 does. We have no right to be niggardiy of our treasures, but we have as little it to be prodigal of them. Is it benevolence or wisdom to place important political privileges, involving cor- responding duties, in the hands of men who are | incapable of comprehending their value or mean- ing? itis universally admitted that the one thing needful above all others for the success of a repub- lic ts a high standard of intelligence in its citizens, What are we doing to secure this grand desid- eratum? Our schoo) system, it ts said, is perform- ing the work. But we are admitting thousands every year to all the privileges of citizenship whom our school system does not reach. The American people do not seem to realize that they are doing anything extraordinary in thus deliberately increasing, by additions from — without, | the proportion of ignorance and moral | obliquity in the voting class, Other republics have found enough corruption in their own native-born citizens to insure their destruc- tion. We calmly invite the ignorance and vice of the world to come in and make their home with us and take possession of the safeguards of our | liberty. All the changes that have thus far been | made in the law of naturalization have been in the direction of greater laxity. We have gone too far in this direction. Wisdom and pradence demand | that we should turn squarely about and take a | firm step toward conservatism. That it would be extremely dificult to take such a step affords no suMicient ground for refusing to make the attempt. If conservatism can be applied to the elective tranchise at ail, this is, pre-eminentily, the place for it. To extend the term of residence now required to twice or even thrice that period could afford no just cause for complaint, and would, unquestion- ably, give @ material check to the degeneration of the voting classes. Finally, if we are to maintatn our high position among the nations of the earth, we must preserve @ high standard of national honor. Would that we might have, in these degenerate days, something like @ revival of that stern ola Puritan virtue which sustained the nation in its infancy and gave it the vigor ofitsearly manhood! Wouid that men might learn that expediency 1s not the only thing te be considered in the affairs of this world; that | there is such @ thing as right, and that it has a a in public as well as private concerns! What | is this we hear about the “policy” of paying | the national obligations? Can that nation nope to prosper that stops to debate upon the “policy” of keeping its promises’ If the United States is ever to become @ truly great nation it must not hesitate between right and wrong in its ublic measures; if must have more truth, more jonor, More Maniiness in its public men. The danger to this country is not that the government will be overthrown by violence and a despotism Ret Ey in tts place—the fate of the ancient repub~ lics—but that it will become a byword among the nations for the corruption and+imbecility of ia politics. Wé may not be destroyed, but we shall certainly be disgraced if we do not rouse ourselves to sbake off the demoralizing tendencies of the age and revive something akin to purity in our na- tional councils, THE PRIZES. After the singing of the parting ode, written by Frederick Addison Cline, President Porter an- nounced the following prizes :— For excellence {5 composition during the year to mem. bers of the Senior ©. Aidis, Wilcox. Thatcher, Curtis, (equal), Doughty and’ Hedges (equal). Second Kank—Spaniding, Walden, Whi tte more, Farnain, W. foster, Renuedy und Leet aust we Prizes tor declamation to the Sophomore Class—First prize, Harrison ; second, Bottom ; wird, Durric, Senior Mathematical’ Prizes—First prize, Thatcher, $2; second, W. Kelley, $10. Winthrop Prize tor the Junior Vlaws—Griffin, Blodget. Prize in Modern Languages, George H. Benton. nbs, Wooldey Scholarship (Hresnman Clasw, John 8 ‘The Hurlbart Scholarship, Thomas D. G: . The Third Vreghman prise, Charies ©, Grn Prizes for Haglish Vombosition in phomore First prize, Gleason, Hadley, Howe, Marvin; .P. Gaylord, Hyde, Sage, Smith; third, Bingham, jushneéll, Caner, Worcester, thematical "Prizes in the Sophomore Cinas—First second, Maxson; third, Kendrick. ry Scholarship was awarded to Fox, of the olarship to Thatcher, of the Senior determined by lot between two equal com- and Thatcher. . Forest Scholarship to Benton, ot the ol an Bristed Scholarship to Haditey, of the Sophomore ot Berkeley Prizes for excellence in writing Latin awarded to the following members of the Freshinan Clage |. Forbes, Hodges, Thatcher, a. Thomas, W. Williams; second, P. Bige- low, Briscoe, G. Kilot, Gultisor, Miller, Pyle, Shipley. waee Shean Prize ot $35), chet to all ema. , Whe awe jenry B. a of the Yale Theologiexl Som pany. The exercises at the chapel then closed. YALE HISTORY, After @ refreshing rest of a couple of hours the wating claas, with their many friends, both jadies and gentiemen, assembled beieath the old elms to lusten to the Clas® bistories—an old cus tom, the commencement of which is not exactly known. The Senio's were seated on benches around a table, upon which the historians read their amusing and weil told jokes, while the ladies were seated in the rear on elevated seats. A heavy shower, however, later in the afternoon, Jorced the audience to go to the chapel, Tne ac- customed pipe of peace was smoked with a min- gied air of gravity and mirth. Instead of the tra- ditional whiskey puneh the cooling lemonade waa uated, The historians of 1874 were Charles J, larris, Frank Jenkins, Cameron D. Waterman and Thomas P, Wickes, THE ‘74 IVY. After the bistories had been read the class re- Paired to the college Mbrary, where the Class iv: was planted ny the Class Ivy Committee, C. 0. Starkweather, F. A. Clive and E. Swallow. The ivy ode, written by ©. C. Starkweatuer, was next sung to the air of “Evening Bells.” Preceded by the band the class marched back to the college buildings, each of which they bade Jarewell with uhree times three cheers. Alter call- ing on President Porter and several of the Pro- fessors they returned to the College Campus apd gave “nine times three” farewell cheers for the glorious cla» of 1874. The Class Day Committee were ©. E. Humphrey, G, L. Dickerman, D. R. Howe, U. F. Joy and D. A. Kennedy. EVENING EXERCISES AND BALL. The exercises this evening were exceedingly interesting. The Senior Ball attra ted universal universal attention. The young ladies {rom Oni- cago, St. Louis, Buffalo, Cincinnati, New York and Philadelphia, to say nothing of smaller cities, ol gented & gay an picturesque pignt as “4 waltzed and promenaded in Music Hall. The gran ballroom was richly decorated. Under the gal- lemes Were canary biras and flags and festoona. On the stage were two sheaves of wheat, upon which were carelessly strewn beautiful wild flowers. Two small cologne fountains and one large one perfumed the air, and altogether the affair was most briliant. The Promenade Com- mittee were #. C. Lepage Its M Boces J. R punning, T. G. Evans, W, S. Halsted, F. G. Inger- soll, P. A. Porter, C. BR. Walker end F, 8. Wither- THE SCIEWTTIFIC SCHOOL The closing exercises of the Scientific School were held this evening tn spite of the rain in the hall of the new Scientific building. The building Was Well filled, and many distinguisned men were present, including the President, many of the ‘oieesors, Hon. Edwards Pierrepont, L1.D., Chief Justice Waite and others. VASSAR COLLEGE: POUGHKEEPSIE, June 23, 1874, This was class day at Vassar. The influx of Visitors from all parts of the country was so great as to deprive many late comers of a bed vo sleep on at the hotels, The rush this morning by the street car railroad, which goes directly to Vassar College, was tremendous. This town, with its Rip Van Winkle traditions, has suddenly awakened to the extreme importance of the Vassar College Commencement. Everybody knows what Vassar College is, and it is only necessary to state that the one grand, underlying principle which “old man Vassar” had in his mind was that of instituting a college for females on the exact plan of the ordinary colleges for males. THE SERVICES OF THE DAY began with an address from the President, F. F. Fisher. Then followed an exceedingly interesting “Rhstory of the Class of 74,” by Miss Bennett. There was a poem by Miss E £. Hoyt,anad “A Prophecy of the Class,” by Miss A, G. Howes. After this began the exercises at the tree in the coilege grounds, supplemented by music from Gilmore’s Band. Then there was the presentation of the spade with which ‘old man Vassar” dug out the original joundations of the college. This pre- sentation business consumed a good deal of wind: rhetoric, but QGilmore’s music supervened an everybody was happy. Next came the “Senior Charge,’ by Miss L. H. Brownell, and the ‘Junior Reply,” by Miss Kate ane and both had many points of interest and 8 Tne formula of “depositing the records” fol- lowed, and finally the “class song’’ was song, Mr. Eastman joining in with his marvellous tenor voice. TRE CLAS3 SONG. The following was sung, with much grace and sweetness :— Sweet summer bells are ringing odjtender, mournful knell; cpllege days are ende: “And we must say farewell. But let oar song paps As in glad da: yore, While we stand around the elm tree. mplem of Seventy-four. Alas ey : ad daiunthess, *ibetmielaes loving sway. «rander aims inspiring, Pyke loo ee in her sheltering ws The past holds eergriig precious; ‘The future, too, For we ere rich 1 ‘Though chan; Bug bid us close forever, Till ‘the end the work shall crown.” THE RXERCIBES AT THR TREE, Here it was tnat Vassar came forth in perfec- tion. There have been many briliiant groupings of Vy atthe Academy oi Music where an ex- cess of silk, satin and jewelry made the scene one of intoxicating splendor, but few so beautiful as this. When Giimore’s Band struck up the old samiliar “shadow dance” a tnrill ran through the triple circle of ladies, all in their light and exquisite sum- mer costumes, and the great majority without any head-covering Whatever. And such an aggrega- tion of beauty! The multitude of biondes and brunettes, dressed accordin, from Paris, stirred to the soul the spectator, MONOPOLY OF FEMALE BEAUTY. No doubt of the fact, Vassar has the female beauty of the Union.. Here all the gentlemen of wealth, taste, good béhavior and moral conduct may come and see an exhibition of American loveliness they never saw before. Miss Howes was especially effective. She was dressed in biack, with @ rosebud in her hair, and her hair was of the Seepess Taven, Her voice, like that of the distinguished maiden Annie Laurie, whose story is familiar 8 everybody, was low and sweet. ‘The peculiar character of her recitation was read- ily apprehended. It was a sort of burlesque of almost everything, and the telling points were quickly appreciated and applauded by the au- dience. It is doubtful if there ever was a pathering of such extreme female loveliness assembled around the oid elm tree in the Park. The mascu- lune visitors were few. Asa rule they behaved as if they were condemned to be hanged and were expecting every moment a reprieve, UNION UNIVERSITY. SCHENECTADY, N. Y., June 23, 1874. Union College commencement exercises opened here to-day with the meeting of Phi Beta Kappa Society in South College. THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION met later in the college chapel, Horatio G. Warner, of Rochester, chairman. The meeting was aa- dressed by Mr. Judge O. 8. Jenkins, ex-Governor of Georgia, of class of 1824, who spoke of the extreme pleasure it afforded him now,in the evening of a longer pilgrimage of life than usually feli to the lot of men, to come back to these scenes where as a boy he learned better than from any other preceptors. He alluded to the bond of union which always existed between schoolfellows, and said at all times and opportunities he would be glad to show that it had existence yet with him. The chairman asked if any of the class of 1816 were present? Intermediate years were called and no response until 1824, when Mr. Marks, of New York, took the floor, and was warmly received. He Spoke of the regret which filled his soul at seeing 80 few of his contemporaries preseat, as he knew there are many tiving yet. Amasa J. Parker, of Albany, responded for 1825, describing the admirable system of teaching, and said he looked forward with confidence thatold Union will sustain its reputation, 1826 was represented by the chairman, He told of the indulgence of Dr. Nott—of the winning way he had of reclaiming wicked boys, Sneers had been aimed at Union College, but if any other in- stitution had as mach brain work he could sympa- thize with the alumni there. Twelve years ago, he said, the class of 1811 was represented here, and there are four of them living yet. There was no superficial education here, and the men before hun who had ‘gone through the mill” can bear him out in saying that out of the 4,000 graduates who have gone jorth irom these classic walls there is no equal a8 a body in the United States. ir 1882, describt the trem- ig knees with which he approached the awful , bus left filled with pleasure and gratitude e kindness and instruction he had received for Jrom the estimable Nott. 1886 Was represented by the Rey. Dr. Ingalls ana 1839 by Dr. Austin. Rev. Dr. Fillmore spoke for 1640, recounting sev- eral schooimasters who became D. D.’s, ernors, none to State Prison and only oné or two to Congress. He, too, told of the bond of iriend- ship he found always existing ‘among the jalumni; mentioning Dr. Vedder, in Japan, and many others whom he inet on the slopes of the Pacific, who tendered their best oMces on recognising in him @ representative of their old alma mater, THB MEMORIAL HALL. With the leave of the chairman 8. B. Brownell introduced @ message from the Board of Rc mn saying that owing to the munificence of the alumni and trustees funda had been provided for the com- pletion of the memorial hall, and a contract ordered to be signed for th ction of # fire- Proof dome, plans of which were submitted to the Meeting, Une hundred thousand dollars had been me gov- to the latest edict expended on that building, anda litte more wilt complete it, which onan ee Gone at once, REMINISCENCES, ke of the great pleasure it gave him to hi that what was Called their “castle air’? was pow about to be rendered what it wi originally designed to be—a repository of the m mentoes with which the minds of aii the alumni Were associated when looking back to the they had spent tl For bim thi ity ba attractions, one of which was the grave of his o1 # yn, killed in the war; the other, the halls af ‘nion. } The Rev. Dr. Millard, of Syracuse, Pronounced this the white year of Union College, and felt pi to recognize the spirtt of energy and determina< tion to advance which existed. Professor Wells, who was recetved with rounds o; applause, addressed the association on the necesait, of action in providing funds.to aid the “Runnin; of the machine.” Endowments and foundation: have here, as elsewhere, proved but sources 0: expense, a8 Do provision js with these made the cost of professors to teach. He trusted that whe: they went among the alumni in their homes they would by their influence him m bis efforts to sustain the a which are requisite to carry out a proper of mstruction im such af important ment. From the manner in which his remarks were re< ceived it 16 evident thas he is itkely to be 60 practit cal a The How H. R. Pierson (ciass of 46) was elected President of the sioial jation and Jobn A. De Bemer was re-elected Trustee. THB ANNUAL UBT. In a splendid gymnasium, just finished, about ~ of the alumm: were entertained at saunipmoud my rgon was chairman, ner; Mr. H. ted by the Clarkson N. Potter and in. W. '. . Boyd having said grace, Chairman recommended th address the meeting. The Hon. | James D. Featherstone (1834), A. H. Rice aa and J.J. any” Davenport, lowa (1854), appr priately respond } THR PHI BETA KAPPA SOCIRTY were addressed at a quurtcr to eight o’clock P. My by the Hon. C. J. Jenkins, in an excellent speech. THE AUMBER OF GRADUATES Present this year exceeds that of many of those receding, and has afforded great satisfaction. ‘o-mMorrow will be devoted to the commencemens exercises. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, Hanover, N. H., Jane 22, 1874, lreached here Saturday evening. The traing Were filled with visitors for the annual commence- Ment, which occupies nearty ail of the current week, and the principal hotel already begins to overflow. The season of the year, the exquisite beauty of the place, the fact of its being exactly on the line of travel for the White Mountains, added to the college occasion, serve to give the town the ap~ pearance of a watering place. The exercises com- menced yesterday (Sunday) with the baccalaureate discourse by Dr. Asa D. Smith, the President. The college prizes have just been declared, and: ere always a subject of much interest. The $50 Senior prize, founded by Richard B. Kimball for! the best statement of what bedi ed Mowe | man from the rest of the animal creation, wi awarded to Ferdinand Blanchard, of Windsor, Vt. It should be noticed that this young man, Uke many o/ the Dartmouth boys, has tought bis way unaided through his college course, and winie Unable, by reason of his exertions to pay hts ex- penses, to compete as a recitation scholar with the more favored of his clags, Le has, at the end of the four years, carried off the frst philosophical prize.) On Wednesday William M. Evarts delivers a eulogy, on the late Chief Justice Chase, who wis a gradu~ ate of Dartmouth. it is known that Mr. Evarts! hastaken extraordinary pains with this produc- téon, and much is expected of him. On Thursday are tne exercises by the graduates, who immediately alter strike out into the world to conquer jortune or find themselves unhorsed mm tae contest and thrown outside the arena. I ought to say that Dartmouth is fast becoming iver- mty the wider sense. Besides the lege”? proper there 1s the Medical School, the iaw fee- vares, the Chandler Scientific College, the Agri- cultural College, founded by the state, the Thayer Institute, for education in the highest departmens of engineering, and Moore's preparatory school. 8T. PETER’S MALE SsCHOOL, ‘The closing exercises of St. Peter's Romam , Catholic male parochial school were celebrated ‘last night, Tne extreme warmth of the night aid mot prevent the school room in Barc'ay street from being crowded to eDcess. ny the numeroos Miriends of the pupils and tne admirers of the Christian Brothers’ system of school educatton. The ladies were in the majority among the audience, and as the exercises pro- @ressed showered floral honors upon their Javorite actors in the exercises, The schoolroom was fitted up very taste!ully for the occasion. A carpeted dats, decorated with fanc: ful devices and blooming flowers, was placed the south side of the room, for the accammoaation of the pupils who were to recite or sing; in both of which accomplishments the pupils showed con- siderable proficiency. ‘This school is under the supervision of Father O'Farrell, purish priest of St. Peter's, and. ia directed by Fathers Alpheus and McCieary. Be- tween 600 and 700 boys receive gratuitous educa- ey perce eta books free, at the charge of the Parish. Quite a varied programme in vocal and instru- menial music and recitation was goue through very creditably by the boys, at the end of which a distribution of premiums took place, and the exer- ciges closed by an address irom J. F. McNally. MULLEN’S WALKING MATOE, To THe EpiToR OF THE HERALD:— Your report of my walking match against time took me quite by surprise. Will you allow me in self-defence to say that I engaged the Wash- ington Riding Academy as the course on which to walk under the representation that seven- teen and three-tenths times round made an exact mile. I never measured it myself, as I shall certainly doin all my future matches, but depended solely on the representations as to distance made to me. I have now had the above course carefully measured twice with a filty foot tape line. The course itself is only forty-four inches wide from stakes to wall, exciu- sive, of course, of the four right angle corners which, from corner stakes to angle of walla, are Dine feet five inches on the diagonal. Measuring in the centre of this narrow course, where I always walk, and cutting off the corners as best to my ad- vantage, the exact distance round is 276 feet, not 240 feet, a8 your Feporter puts it. That gentie- man doubtless measured the track hurriedly and under disadvantages. I repeat that £ am more than astonished at learning through the HERALD that I have not accomplished the dis- tance [ supposed, having, as 1 now see, jailed to do so by one-tenth of the assumed miles walked. Had 1 possessed the means or the friends neces- sary Ishould have walked the match in the Rink, or sone other suitable locality, but being poor ‘and friendiess 1 was obliged to put up with the only course offered to me and suited to my circum- stances. No worse arena for such an exbibition could well be imagined. The ventilation and light are not what they ought to be, and the four right angles of the track compel a man to throw the whole weight of his body on one knee in turning juickly round. ‘This is the only reason why my nees became swollen. On the opening day, when walking, as I supposed, the 115 miles, I soolianly ‘went all the time in the same direction, the result being an inflammation of the left knee joint. This I have managed to walk off by changing the turns, thereby tarowing the weight on the other knee, and I now feel as well and capable as ever in my! lite, When I have it in my power to rent the Rink [ shall again attempt this match and will do 120 “fair and square’? miles within tne twenty- four hours. I know my own powers and mean to show that I have no Jalse coniidence in myself, W. MULLEN. STRAWBERRIES SHORT,’ The thermometer indicated 96 degrees in the shade yesterday, as Mr. Elliott, an elderly gentie- man, made bis appearance at the Tombs Court to tell of how he had bought MERaxpD advertisements for strawberries. He mopped his forehead while be walted for his turn, and fanned himself with his hat. Court loungers prophesied that there was a big forgery case going to come up, for it is seldom, except in such cases, that the dingy Court ll age by the presence of such a substantl loo) man Mr. Elliotts, who has a breadth o! beam which successful investment can alone im~ baerted On Saturday might he longed lor straw- Fries and cream and on way home to Jer- sey he purch: what he thought was a basket of strawberries for Mfty cents. On the way gastronomic flircation about the her astonishment, twe: ‘Were ali she could get, notwithat ng hit it several times on the . 8 the wicker !abric, and the Sret astonished gaze ie triple shear into the bottom of the half a BRRALD basket and file: top with frais. Year noon Mr. Elliott went to buy some more ‘ber- ries, and bappened on the same Reading, who sold lim enother basket “deaconed” in the way. Jonn was brought before the Judge, who commit. ted him lor trial for selling goods under false pre.