26 



close of the half-century upon which we have entered ; 

 but our society shall still live on and prosper. Others 

 will rise up, and carry on the good work ; and as they 

 come with fruits and flowers — the results of their labors 

 — to adorn these halls, they will remember those who 

 have jj^one before. Thus from generation to generation 

 may this temple continue to stand, and honor the names 

 of those who erected it. 



Commemorating as we do by this celebration the com- 

 pletion of the first half-century of the existence of our 

 society, it is natural to look forward to the future of its 

 history. When we reflect upon what has already been 

 accomplished, how from its small beginnings it has risen 

 to its present usefulness and renown, who does not feel 

 that its future is yet to be equally prosperous and glo- 

 rious ] 



The seed which has been sown, 



" Thougli it long lies buried in the dust, 

 Shall not deceive our hope," 



but will continue to spring up for years to come. Much as 

 has been accomplished, still greater results are in store for 

 posterity ; and as time advances, still richer acquisitions 

 in fruit and flower will gladden the eyes, and charm the 

 senses ; and, as you and your posterity shall come up to 

 these altars with your votive off"erings, let all remember 

 with gratitude those who laid the foundations of this 

 society, and those who have so actively co-operated with 

 us to advance the objects of our institution, and have 

 brought it forward to its present prosperous condition. 

 As the members from time to time congregate in these 

 halls, think you not, that, if these portraits could speak 

 from the canvas, they would bless you for your works 1 

 Methinks they now speak to us, and rejoice with us in 

 the good which this institution has bestowed on the 

 world. 



