320 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. [Jean. 



They dropped out one by one. We let fall the tear of 

 sorrow for the loss of their wise counsels and genial 

 companionships ; their places are filled by others who also 

 win our love and respect ; and with hearts softened by 

 tender memories, but with purposes strengthened by noble 

 examples, we turn again to take up the ever-present duties 

 of life, and the ontlowing current of our daily existence 

 closes with a ripple over the breach, and Ave are borne 

 swiftly along. 



Very few opportunities of my life have given me more 

 enjoyment than those which have brought me into an 

 acquaintance with the members now past and present of 

 this honorable Board. From them and from their secretary, 

 past as well as present, I have experienced many acts of 

 courtesy which will be cherished among the choicest 

 memories of my life. 



But, while we remember those venerable associates who 

 have passed on before us, we must not forget that many of 

 us who remain have already passed the meridian line, and 

 soon our places in life will all have been filled by others. 

 But let us — 



" So live that when our summons comes to join 

 The innumerable caravan which moves 

 To that mysterious realm, wliere each shall take 

 His chamber in the silent halls of death, 

 We go not, like the quarry slave at night. 

 Scourged to his dungeon, but, sustained and soothed 

 By an unfaltering trust, approach the grave 

 Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch 

 About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams." 



