116 TRANSACTIONS OF THE SOCIKTY. 



lions, than probably any man living. He was in the habit, too, of making 

 his propositions after a very short acquaintance. 



Upon one occasion, he met with a lady in a rail-road car, who particu- 

 larly struck his fancy. He procured an introduction to her, and set about 

 his usual attentions. The lad}^, having been informed of his habit, hu- 

 mored the matter through the day. As they approached the end of the 

 day's journey, the gentleman made his usual proposition of marriage. The 

 lady replied with great seriousness, that the subject which he had proposed 

 was a very important one, and ought not to be hastily decided ; that she 

 would take a little lime to consider it, and if he would call at her house in 

 the morning, she would give him an answer, as in the mean time she could 

 consult Jier husband. 



He had actually offered himself, Mr. President, to a married lady. Just 

 such, sir, has been my fate all day, in seeking a subject for a speech to- 

 night. Every one I applied to, has turned out to be either engaged or 

 married to somebody else. And Heaven forbid that I should break olf any 

 match ! 



Beset by all these difficulties, sir, I repeat that I cannot make a speech 

 to-night ; and as a memento of my sufferings all day, I give you as a 

 sentiment, — 



The Misery of Table Public Speaking. — Equalled only by that of 

 seeking a wife in vain. 



The President then gave, — 



The American Institute, — The entrenched guard for the rights of the 

 agriculturist and the promotion of American manufactures. A union for 

 great results and national honor. 



Hon. Mr. Meigs, of New York, responded on behalf of the Institute. 

 He said that he was there as the servant of that body, which was full of 

 admiration of the taste, genius, and unparalleled industry of Boston. Nor 

 did any feeling of envy or jealousy exist in the minds of that institution. 

 The delegates were instructed to offer a most cordial and earnest invitation 

 to those present, to visit the Fair of the Institute, which was to be held in 

 October next. This invitation was cordially received. Mr. Meigs offered 

 the following toast : — 



Boston, and her splendid gardens, and her rail-roads to them. 



At this time, Mrs. Hamilton and several others of the distinguished 

 guests retired, and all present rose as they passed from the room. 



The following sentiments were then announced from the Chair : — 



The Ladies, — The love-plants of earth's garden, who twine their affec- 

 tionate tendrils round man's nature, shielding him from noxious blasts, 

 rejoicing with him in the full-leaved summer of his prosperity, and cling- 

 ing to him with unaltered love through the dreary winter of ruin and 

 decay. 



