Memories of the World's Fair. 



Sitting on the steps of the pavillion, one balmy October 

 evening, I watched this transformation take place and its mem- 

 ory will go with me through life. Gradually the shadows 

 ascend the Louisiana monument; until the last flickering bar 

 of sunshine disappears from its gold-banded dome. Slowly the 

 cascades grow transcendant with interior flames of colored 

 lights, constantly changing in color and depth, varying in shade 

 and producing the most beautiful effects imaginable on the 

 falling waters. 



The cornices, corners, arches and domes of the big build- 

 ings stand out in red and golden beads of fire. Launches and 

 gondolas are gliding by noiselessly over the quiet waters of 

 the "Grand Basin" and the song of a gondolier floats up on the 

 soft south wind as he keeps time with the dip of his oar. The 

 discordant and inarticulate murmurs of the gazing crowd are 

 succeeded by silence as they stand awed in admiration of the 

 enchanting scene unfolded before them. 



Deep beyond words, and far beyond expression, is the 

 subtle pathos of this transitory scene at such an hour. As I 

 arise from the pavilion and turn my steps homeward, a feeling 

 of sadness creeps over me to think that this fragile city of 

 beauty, like the evening rainbow, must soon disappear. But 

 its magnificent memories and lessons can never die. The out- 

 lines and proportions of these fine models of architecture will 

 survive in the minds of the thousands who have been charmed 

 and educated by their contemplation. 



Any attempt to estimate or measure the lessons of the 

 great Louisiana Purchase Exposition, and its educational bene- 

 fits, would be impossible at this time. It is very doubtful if 

 5 per cent of the visitors to the fair make a careful study and 

 analysis of the exhibits, but a large per cent study those ex- 

 hibits in which they are most interested and carry home a rich 

 store of information that will be invaluable to them through 

 life. Thus, much of the information gleaned at the fair will 

 be gradually unfolded in the future conditions of private and 

 public life. 



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