138 AEBOR DAY. 



have originated in a mind at once poetic and practical. I 

 believe that the author of Arbor Day is to hold a perma- 

 nent place in popular regard alongside the author of the 

 homestead law. 



This commonwealth of its origin should not only cele- 

 brate but use the day, until everywhere within her bor- 

 ders "the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad 

 for it, and the desert shall blossom as the rose; * * 

 and the parched ground shall become a pool, and the 

 thirsty land springs of water." 



Last year the university had the privilege of listen- 

 ing to the chaste and classic eloquence of Mr. Morton 

 himself; this year we observe the day by laying the 

 corner-stone of the Grant Memorial Hall, a structure 

 consecrated in a special sense to the sentiment and the 

 duty of patriotism. Whether by planting trees or by 

 planting institutions, we propose always to honor the 

 day which Nebraska has given to the nation, and which 

 the nation is so warmly taking to her heart. 



I desire to join with all my heart in the congratulations 

 which the 22d of April must always bring to the distin- 

 guished citizen to whom Nebraska and the nation are alike 

 indebted for Arbor Day. 



Faithfully yours, 



IRVING J. MANATT. 



