STATE GRANGE OF ILLINOIS. 11 



The Secretary read his annual report: 

 To the Worthy Master and Members of the State Grange: 



In view of the quite lengthy report of the Executive Com- 

 mittee, and it including about, if not all suggestions for the 

 good of the Order I think necessary, I consider it unnecessary 

 for me to make a lengthy report. 



I am of the opinion that the order of " Patrons of Hus- 

 bandry" stands as well and is upon as good a basis now as at 

 any time since its existence. 



It is true that the paying membership is not as large as a 

 year ago, but it is composed of members who have the interest 

 and welfare of our Order at heart. 



Since the last meeting there has been fift3'-nine Subordinate 

 Granges organized, making the total number 1.592. 



There has been 31 charters returned and by me sent to the 

 Secretary of National Grange. 



Notice has been sent to all Granges who were in arrears for 

 dues to the State Grange. 



The letters received and the condition of those who have not 

 paid up such arrears will be laid before the Master of State 

 Grange at the first opportunity, for his action. I had hoped to 

 be able to have done so before this meeting, but have not for 

 want of time. 



As you are all aware, my term of office expires with this year. 

 I was elected to the office of Secretary of State Grange at its 

 organization, and was re-elected for the second term two years 

 ago. With what success or ability I have performed its duties it 

 is for you to judge. 



There has been many pleasant features and incidents con- 

 nected with the office, and I have formed many acquaintances 

 that I shall remember with pleasure. 



Before retiring from the office allow me to thank you all for 

 the uniform kindness with whicli you have always met me. 



I ask you to overlook and forgive anj' mistakes 1 have made. 



Referred to Committee on Finance. 



The Secretary of the Executive Committee submitted the fol- 

 lowing report: 



Worthy Master and Patrons: Your Executive Committee 

 do not deem it necessary, or even desirable, to burden the pro- 

 ceedings of this meeting with a detailed statement of all the 

 transactions of this Committee during the year just closed. The 

 minutes of our meetings are here, and can be consulted or read 

 if desired. 



Much of our business is of such a nature as to present but few 



