76 



their fathers, should demonstrate the capacity of man for self-govern- 

 ment. It was this civilization tliat, when slavery, with the warm 

 breath of old world despotism, was against us, gave us Lincoln's 

 Proclamation of Emancipation; it blotted out slavery; it vindicated 

 the Declaration of Independence ; and saved the nation. Let the 

 nations love and reverence the names of Cutler and Dane. They 



" heard the tread of pioneers 



Of nations yet to be; 

 The first low wash of waves where soon 

 Should roll a human sea." 



Yours, sincerely, 



J. WINGATE THORNTON. 

 Abner C. Goodell, Esq., V. P., Chairman of the Com. of Arrange- 

 ments. 



The celebration as a whole must be considered as an 

 eminent success. The evening was propitious, the ar- 

 rangements well carried out in all their details, the 

 speeches thoughtful and interesting, and no untoward 

 incident marred the enjoyment of the festival from its 

 beffinninof to the close. The occasion will long be remem- 

 bered by those who were so fortunate as to be present, as 

 a fitting celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of 

 the Essex Institute. 



