THE NEW ALLEGIANCE 109 



than a hundred dollars, they lost out in their surmise, 

 for the full amount was collected, and never did I see 

 a more enthusiastic gathering, nor one more ready to 

 spend freely. 



The dedication of the Central High School took 

 place on Columbus Day, 1905. About five hundred 

 children gathered in the assembly room, entering four 

 by four, headed by their teachers, where they partici- 

 pated in a program of patriotic exercises. The build- 

 ing, which was crowded with people, inside and out, 

 was decorated with American flags. 



The program started with the "Star-Spangled 

 Banner," followed by 'The Flag of the Free." Patri- 

 otic speeches were delivered by some of the specially 

 invited guests and by my husband, who always reached 

 the hearts of young and old quickly with sincere and 

 earnest words. Mr. A. S. Solomons, who graced every 

 grand occasion in Woodbine, and in whom American- 

 ization of the immigrant boys and girls had a staunch 

 supporter, presided at the exercises. Old Glory was 

 unfurled, and as it floated over the beautiful white 

 head of this venerable man, he raised his hand and the 

 five hundred children, looking straight at him, recited 

 clearly and strongly: 



"Flag of our great republic! Inspirer of battle! 

 Guardian of our homes ! Whose stars and stripes stand 

 for truth, bravery, purity and union, we salute thee! 

 We, the children of distant lands, who find rest beneath 

 thy folds, do pledge ourselves, our hearts, our sacred 



