“Our Junto” is a circle within a circle. Five young men of the “Broadway” circle, ofCamden, New Jersey, form it. Their program for the spring (of which they ought to be very proud) is a little book rather than a single page, containing the work laid out for the “Juntonians.” The plan is admirable. Each member has something to do at every meeting, and he knows what it is to be so long beforehand that he has ample opportunity to gather material. All circles will find it to their advantage to give attention to “Our Junto’s” plan.——Last October a few of the many students in the C. L. S. C. inNewark, organized a local circle. By the perseverance of these few others have been persuaded to join until the circle numbers about twenty. They have taken the name “Arcadia.” Memorial days in particular find pleasant observance. The last celebration, Longfellow day, was especially interesting. The chemistry is furnishing an excellent opportunity for experiments, which the “Arcadia” is fortunate enough to have a chance to carry on in an academy laboratory.——For the sake of northern New Jersey, which they are sorry not to see often reported inThe Chautauquan, the members of the “Hawthorne,” ofHackettstown, a circle of five members, formed in April last, has sent us thus promptly its report. The “Hawthorne” plungedin medias resand celebrated the Shakspere memorial almost as soon as its organization was complete. Such a vigorous start promises well for their progress next year.——The “Round Table” circle ofJersey Cityis a band of twenty enthusiastic workers. A great deal of genuine hard work has been done by them the past year. The memorial days are celebrated, and every incentive used to foster the true Chautauqua spirit. Experiments have recently been given the class at the high school under the direction of the teacher of science.——The “Ionic,” organized inDover, in January last, grows in interest with each meeting. There are nine members, whose happy experience thus far has been never to be discouraged. But why should they be? “Each member does his part.”
The “Kensington,” ofPhiladelphia, is a circle of eleven members who are much in love with their readings. Such a success has their circle become that the members are willing to sacrifice other things to be present, and the president writes that he has received great benefit in going over again the fields of study that he harvested years ago.——A letter from the secretary of the “Pleiades,” ofPhiladelphia, says: “‘Pleiades’ is now nearly two years old. We began the present school year by increasing our membership from nine to eighteen. We took the advice given inThe Chautauquanon simplicity of government, adopting such rules only as would systematize matters, and having as little formality as possible. It is a success. The meetings are so profitable that we think of continuing them all summer. Two of our members have taken college courses in chemistry, and they have been giving us some practical experiments in this delightful study. Greetings to our sister circles, and praises to ouralma mater.”——The “Emanon” circle, ofWest Philadelphia, has sustained a sad loss in the death of Mr. John S. Rodgers, to whom the circle ascribes its success. He had been the instructor of the class for a long enough time for its members to appreciate his worth and sincerely mourn his death.——A similar sorrow has come to the circle ofWest Bellevue, where Mrs. Dr. W. G. Humber, a loyal member of the C. L. S. C., died on the morning of May 3d.——The Chautauquans ofPittsburghmake more of Special Sunday than any other circles that we know of. Our last reminder of this is a tiny vest-pocket program of the exercises carried out by the “Duquesne” and “Mount Washington” circles on the second Sabbath in May.——The circle atUniondalewrites us that it has chosen for its name “Meredith,” in honor of Samuel Meredith, first Treasurer of the United States, and for their motto they have selected “Spare minutes are the gold dust of time.”——What better proof of the efficiency of the course than this testimony from the “Tennyson” circle of thirty members, atRochester, Pa.: “We think generally that our most pleasant evenings are spent at our circle. One thing that deserves to be especially noted is that light reading among us is being superseded by solid study and the reading of standard authors.”——A circle of ’88s, atAllegheny City, bears the popular name of “Wallace Bruce.” Starting with eighteen members they have grown to twenty-eight, a sign, we hope, that next year they will increase with the same rapidity. Their program of Shaksperean exercises is before us, and it bears some excellent numbers.——The “Carbondale” circle reports a prosperous year. The interest and enthusiasm of the members is increasing. The memorial days are all observed, and by devoting ten to fifteen minutes of each session to singing the circle is becoming familiar with Chautauqua songs. Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Alden gave the circle some very happy talks on their return from their recent trip to the Florida Chautauqua and New Orleans Exposition. The circle closed its first year with a trip to England; this year it closed with a “Greek night.” Going direct to France they propose to visit Paris, Switzerland, Italy and Greece. Arrived in Hellas, the manners, customs, home life and amusements of the Greeks are to be described in short essays. Each member intends to constitute “thonself” a committee of one to secure a new member for next year’s circle.——An appreciative letter reaches us fromSpringboro, where a circle now numbering fifteen has been in existence since 1881. The president writes: “While we are nearing the goal of graduation we look back with gratitude at our rich feast with kings and princes, with masters of art, of science, and of literature. Best of all, we find that we have been made to more clearly understand the wonderful power of the Infinite in all things. With our motto ‘Invincible’ still before us we hope not only to finish the course, but keep climbing with the Chautauqua brotherhood while life lasts.”——Let all good Chautauquans congratulate the fraternity atMontrose. Thus the secretary writes: “It has long been a wish that we might have a branch of the C. L. S. C. in our ‘City on the Hill.’ Four attempts were made, but to no avail; finally a few who were especially enthusiastic endeavored to push ahead once more. The result has been more successful than we anticipated. We organized in January with nine members, and now have grown to sixteen. We trust that July will find us with the desired amount of work fully and well accomplished. There is a most encouraging prospect of doubling the membership another year.”
Twenty-seven enrolled members make up the circle atErie, Pa.The circle meets in the Y. M. C. A. parlors, and the informal, pleasant meetings have proved a great attraction to the members. The Shakspere memorial was observed very successfully, by a parlor session. The literary part of the program consisted of a discussion on the authorship of Shakspere, followed by readings, then came refreshments and the evening was closed by a half hour of Chautauqua songs. Not many evenings ago an address was delivered by the president on Emerson, followed by an hour of practical observation through the telescope. The Erie circle claims that they have interesting meetings, and as a proof say that a non-member, a blind man, is in almost constant attendance.——About 100 members of the C. L. S. C. Alumni Association ofPittsburghmet in a social way at the parlors of the Seventh Avenue Hotel on April 20th, to enjoy the pleasures attendant upon the third annual reunion of the society. Arrangements had been partially made for the reception of Dr. Vincent, who had been expected, but the following letter was received instead:
To the Annual Reunion of the Pittsburgh C. L. S. C. Alumni Association, Pittsburgh, Pa.:My Dear Fellow-Students—I sincerely regret the engagement which had been made prior to the invitation to meet you this evening. The original engagement it was impossible to break. I am therefore denied the privilege of your feast of reason and flow of soul. The Chautauqua work increases in expansion and power. The later classes are steadily growing. I have the good hope that the classes of ’89, already forming, will be the largest and most flourishing of all. I am more and more convinced that there are multitudes of people who would hail with joy the provisions of the “C. L. S. C.” if they were simply informed concerning them. Are you doing all you can toward the enlightenment of the great public with regard to the C. L. S. C. and other branches of the Chautauqua work? Let me urge you to renewed zeal in this direction. Bidding you “a hearty God speed,” I remain your servant in this goodly work.J. H. Vincent.
To the Annual Reunion of the Pittsburgh C. L. S. C. Alumni Association, Pittsburgh, Pa.:
My Dear Fellow-Students—I sincerely regret the engagement which had been made prior to the invitation to meet you this evening. The original engagement it was impossible to break. I am therefore denied the privilege of your feast of reason and flow of soul. The Chautauqua work increases in expansion and power. The later classes are steadily growing. I have the good hope that the classes of ’89, already forming, will be the largest and most flourishing of all. I am more and more convinced that there are multitudes of people who would hail with joy the provisions of the “C. L. S. C.” if they were simply informed concerning them. Are you doing all you can toward the enlightenment of the great public with regard to the C. L. S. C. and other branches of the Chautauqua work? Let me urge you to renewed zeal in this direction. Bidding you “a hearty God speed,” I remain your servant in this goodly work.
J. H. Vincent.
The banquet passed off most pleasantly.
At a recent meeting of the “Evergreen” circle, ofGreenville, S. C., the circle expressed in a series of fitting resolutions the sorrow of the members at the death of Mr. Richard Grant White, and their appreciation of the value of his recent work forThe Chautauquan.
A letter fromPetersburg, Virginia: “We organized our circle last October, but it was almost January before we got fairly started. We follow closely the work laid out inThe Chautauquan, occasionally having a public meeting. Our observance of the Longfellow and Shakspere days was as creditable as any literary exercises ever presented in our vicinity. Our desire for books has been so much increased by the C. L. S. C. that we have resolved to establish a library for the reading element of our city, and we have begun by the purchase of a few works as a nucleus.”
Orange City, Florida, has the beginning of, we hope, a large circle, in six readers who are taking the C. L. S. C. with their general reading. They use the questions and answers and make the general news of the week a feature of every program. The “Orange City” circle is looking forward to an assembly some day at Mount Dora.
Ohiocomes in with a letter too good to lose: “I discover in your May number that a Kansas member of the C. L. S. C. class of ’85 says he is the oldest of that class and was born (1815) in the year of the greatbattle of Waterloo. I hope he will persevere and enjoy the exercises until he reaches the age of at least three of the ‘Irrepressibles of ’84,’ two of whom are 75 years of age and one 84. The last is still reading for another seal and hopes to be at Chautauqua in August. Hope the member from Kansas will press on in the work he has begun, for there are great possibilities before him which can only be attained by perseverance. He will retain his mental faculties fresh and vigorous as in youth. Press on, good brother, and you will reap your reward here and hereafter.”——The C. L. S. C. ofCincinnatiand vicinity held theirSixth Annual Reunionon May 5th in the parlors of the First Presbyterian Church. A goodly number were present from “Alpha” circle, “Cumminsville,” “Christie,” “Mt. Auburn,” “Cheviot,” “Grace M. P.,” “Third Presbyterian,” “Emanuel,” “Covington,” “Newport,” “Madisonville” and “Walnut Hills.” The program consisted of an address of welcome by J. G. O’Connell, Esq.; prayer by Rev. S. N. Spahr, followed by music, readings, and recitations. The room was brilliantly decorated with mottoes and class emblems, and a profusion of choice and fragrant flowers. From the chandeliers were suspended the class dates, ’85, ’86, ’87, and ’88, and the letters S. H. G. and under these were grouped merry companies, who took part in the collation, which was not the least enjoyable feature of the program. The quarterly vesper service was held on Special Sunday, May 9th, at Grace M. P. Church. It was ably conducted by Mr. E. F. Layman, President of “Grace” circle. Rev. S. N. Spahr gave a very excellent address to the members upon knowledge rightly directed.——The “Young Men’s” circle ofCincinnatihas been doing good work this year. The circle is composed of companion workers in church and Sabbath school, and the bounds of union have been strengthened by the united study of the “Word and Works of God.” The Chautauqua studies were taken up by them with an earnest desire to better fit themselves for successful work. Their faith and courage has been severely tried by the death of one of their active, earnest members, Mr. George E. Wilcox—a sorrow which they are struggling to make a blessing.——The class of ’88 has a live section atMorrow, the “Irving.” There are over thirty regular attendants in the band and their fortnightly meetings are conducted like college recitations, a pastor being the instructor. May the “Irvings” prosper and multiply.
A friend writes fromNorway, Michigan: “We wish to be recognized by our fellow-workers as a prosperous circle, although a small one, and we are very glad we have joined them.” The “Norway” has made a splendid record in its year’s existence, having met every week since last October. It need not fear a lack of cordial welcome here.——“Thornapple” circle, ofNashville, boasts a history very similar to that of the “Norway.” It was first organized a year ago, and its membership is ten. The members are all workers, and kindly report themselves highly pleased with the Chautauqua Idea.——A letter full of the Chautauqua characteristics comes fromDecatur: “Our ‘Pansy’ circle of twenty-five members have held regular meetings since October. We are enthusiastic, and have done genuine work. But it has not all been work. We have had a ‘question match’ upon Greek History and Mythology, the winner of the contest receiving as a prize an original poem. On Founder’s day the question box was on ‘What has Chautauqua done for me?’ On Longfellow’s memorial the circle visited a neighboring class, spending a merry evening. But the red-letter day of the year was April 23d, when a dinner party was tendered the members and their husbands by one of the circle. It was generally pronounced the most enjoyable affair the town had had in many a day and served as a good advertisement of what the C. L. S. C. does for its members. Few of our guests knew how much we had done or could do.”——An unusually good joint meeting took place atFlintin honor of Shakspere. Two circles of the C. L. S. C. and one of the Spare Minute Course united. We like one thing on the program particularly. After taking up in essays Shakspere’s Character, Home Life and Contemporaries, the essays were all studies of one play—“Macbeth;” thus the plot of “Macbeth” was outlined, then followed “Macbeth’s Character,” “Lady Macbeth,” “Who was Duncan?” “Witches and Ghosts,” and “Moral of Macbeth.” This is a much more satisfactory method than several disjointed readings or studies. The evening was closed by conversation and readings, conducted by an able Shaksperean scholar, Hon. E. H. Thompson.
Shakspere himself would, we wager, have been nothing loath to have taken part in the celebration given in his memory atGoshen, Indiana; for “Kitchen Science” illustrated took up the first part of the evening, and the supper, we are told, was not confined to the articles on whichThe Chautauquanhas tried to instruct its readers this past year. In the evening, after these gastronomic exercises were finished, a literary program was carried out.——Here is a circle “of the first magnitude.” Read its record. “TheFranklinC. L. S. C. ofIndianahas increased during the past three years from a membership of twelve to forty-five. We have never failed in having our regular meetings every two weeks since we first organized. During the past winter the circle managed the lecture course of our city, and as one of the results cleared nearly $100. Chancellor Vincent was one of the lecturers, and the members of our circle were delighted to meet him after hearing ‘That Boy.’”——The C. L. S. C. atLima, representing classes ’85, ’86, ’87 and ’88, is one of the brightest and most wide-awake circles in the State. The circle was organized three years ago, and now has a pleasantly furnished room with piano, library, etc.; meets every Friday evening, and observes all memorial days.——Shawnee Moundhas a Chautauqua class of twenty-three members. We are pleased to notice that the circle passed, at a recent meeting, a resolution of respect in memory of Richard Grant White, expressing their sorrow at the loss which American scholarship, and in particular the C. L. S. C. have sustained.——We are pained to record the death of Mr. Hermon St. John, atSalem, on May 1st. The Chautauqua work loses in him a faithful friend.
It has been remarked in these columns already that “Alpha” ofQuincy, Illinois, is famous for its novelties. Their latest sensation was the very practical illustration of a subject given before the circle by the secretary. This gentleman is a native of Hibernia, and so was chosen for a paper on dynamite. When called upon to perform he produced a package of the explosive, much to the consternation of the members.——There died atRushville, on April 18th, the oldest member, without doubt, of the C. L. S. C. in the world, Mr. Van Rensalaer Wells. Three years ago his daughter began reading to him the books of the course. He took a lively interest in these readings, and finally joined the class of ’86. Had he lived it was his intention to have visited Chautauqua at the graduation of his class.——A good woman fromChicagowrites: “I went about from house to house among my friends, and finally succeeded in inducing three young persons, all earning their own living, to begin the readings with me.… We sit around a table socially, and discuss freely our literary repast.… I forgot to say that I am a very busy woman, the mother of three boys. My best reading is often done after nine at night, when the little eyes are closed in sleep.”——The announcement of a new C. L. S. C. arrival is made fromOregon, where the “Ganymede” of twenty members appeared in October last. Busy people, but they feel that they can not afford to miss the Saturday evening meeting. The meetings are to be continued through the summer for the purpose of review.——Another Illinois addition made to the C. L. S. C. last fall was atSavoy, where a club of eighteen was gathered. Notwithstanding the very severe weatherand deep snow, and the fact that the circle members are farmers, living far apart, the sessions are full and wide-awake. A very good plan has been tried by the circle in chemistry, the blackboard being used for exercises. Every circle ought to have a blackboard.——The history of the class atBuckleybegan in 1882, when six members met in informal meetings for discussion. In 1884 it was thought wise to organize formally. Since that time the circle has been making a decided impression upon the community. Two public meetings have been given, which have attracted general attention. At the last, the closing session of the year, thoughtful remembrance was made of the president by the gift of a beautiful chair.——A band of nine join the ranks fromWarren. It is only of late the class has found a name. It is “Meridian,” from the fact that the town is situated on one of the meridians. The circle has been followingThe Chautauquanin its plan of work, using the published programs, with slight variation.——“It takes three to make a circle,” writes a lady fromFarina, “and we are three; one ‘Invincible,’ one ‘Pansy,’ and one ‘Plymouth Rock.’ We are scattered as to time, but are united in interest, in enthusiasm, and in determination. Our circle was organized in November, 1881, only a dot—myself—but though alone, and unsuccessful in securing readers, and hindered in every way from doing the best of work, there was a satisfaction in doing the readings that nothing had ever brought into my life. What we shall accomplish as a circle, the future will reveal, but there is no ‘giving up’ to any of us.”——A Chautauqua circle ofMoline, not yet a year old, and a Shaksperean circle, under the same direction as the former, have been coöperating the past season in a series of parlor meetings of great interest. In January it was a dinner party; on Founder’s day a literary performance with brief essays on Chautauqua subjects; and on Shakspere day a decidedly new thing—a Shaksperean quotation contest. No one was allowed to give a quotation that had been given by another, and the successful competitor took the prize on his ninety-fifth quotation.——We are in receipt of the Longfellow program of the “Oakland” circle, ofChicago; an excellent and varied list of numbers it is. The “Oakland” is a wide-awake circle.
FromMarkesan, Wisconsin, the secretary of “Climax” circle writes: “We are still in a flourishing condition. Although some who were with us last year have gone to new homes, we have new members to make up those we have lost. There are no very young students in the class, but one has to wear two pairs of spectacles to see. We have observed most of the memorial days, and found the programs inThe Chautauquanvery useful.”——What one zealous reader did is told in a note fromDarlington: “Last year myself and daughter read the course alone. Before the beginning of the present year I put a short article explaining the C. L. S. C. scheme into our local paper, and called a meeting of all those who would like to take the course. The result is that we now have a circle of thirteen. There will probably be an increase next year.”
A beautiful souvenir of the Longfellow celebration of the “Vincent” circle atMilwaukee, Minn., has reached our table. The memorial was a perfect success, and with justice the members felt very proud of it. The “Vincent” is another circle sprung from the faithfulness of a single reader, a lady who in 1883 began the course, and in 1884 had gathered a circle of twenty-two about her, each one of whom responds promptly and faithfully to all calls for class work.——The “Quintette” of “Plymouth Rocks” atDuluthhave been doing the regular work since October, in informal meetings led by the different members in turn. They expect soon to change their name to suit an enlarged membership.——The “Gleaners,” ofZumbrota, with a goodly number of their friends were treated to an interesting program of exercises on Shakspere day. The “Gleaners” are a power in their community, and have, they say, “enough enthusiasm to fill up an evening without refreshments.”——AtHastingsa circle began life in October with sixteen regular members, besides several local members. The class has had a sad break in its ranks by the death of Miss Kate Stebbins, a bright young woman who had undertaken the C. L. S. C. studies.——St. Paulbids fair to become exactly what its Chautauquans are aiming to make it, a great C. L. S. C. center. To this end a “Central” circle has been formed in the city, composed of six circles, the “Wakouta,” “Itasca,” “Dayton’s Bluff,” “Plymouth,” “Canadian American,” and “Pioneer,” and numbering in all over an hundred members. The “Central” circle celebrated Longfellow’s day by a very enjoyable program, and is trying to make arrangements for other joint entertainments. The St. Paul friends are proud of having two of their number prominent at Lake de Funiak, Mrs. Emily Huntington Miller, one of the founders of the “Pioneer” circle, and Dr. L. G. Smith, pastor of the First M. E. Church.——The home of the Minnesota Summer Assembly,Waseca, is the center of a stirring circle of twenty members. The increase in the circle is largely due to the efforts of the Rev. A. H. Gillet and his colaborers at the Assembly, which met at this lake for the first time last year. The “North Star,” of Waseca, offers a very attractive plan of work.
TheIowafriends come in as strong as ever.Wintersetreports a new circle of twenty-five members, with a weekly program published in the local paper, and growing zeal.——Dunlapreports another which is in its second year, and which numbers twenty-three. An especially good program was arranged by these friends recently. A number of their members visited New Orleans the past winter, and an evening of sketches of Exposition sights was arranged.——“Sunny Side Straight Line,” ofHamburg, is composed of two school ma’ams. They meet whenever and wherever it is convenient; after five p. m., before eight a. m., at the gate or in the kitchen. Pleased with the course, they are looking forward to joining the “Pansies” at Chautauqua in 1887.——TheAftoncircle had the pleasure of celebrating its first memorial day on April 23d. They succeeded so admirably that Addison day was observed as well. The Afton circle pays a kind tribute to the work: “We are glad the Chautauqua Idea struck us, but sorry it failed to reach us sooner. It has been of untold benefit to us, opening to our view new fields of thought, and arousing new resolutions for the future.”——AtBlanchardthe “Pansy” class gave an entertainment not long ago for the benefit of their work. An elocutionist was secured and after the performance the C. L. S. C. and its aims were presented to the audience. The circle realized a nice little sum from their venture, which they propose to turn into maps, charts and the like for their room. An excellent idea.——Kindly mention we must make, also, of theDecorahcircle. Like all Iowa circles, it “grows.” The secretary writes: “We began last year with quite a small number, but have kept adding to our numbers until there are eighteen now who are reading the course. Our circle is composed entirely of ladies, the most of whom have work that takes up the greater part of their time. We have very pleasant meetings and derive much pleasure and profit from them.”——Washington, Iowa, has a circle of thirty members. It has been holding weekly meetings for over two years. At the close of last year this circle held a picnic with the Fairfield circle, and this year they have distinguished themselves by an elaborate Longfellow entertainment. “Miles Standish” was read and illustrated by tableaux. The Washingtonians certainly displayed extraordinary artistic ability in arranging one, at least, of these tableaux. They wanted “Priscilla” led in on her “Snow-white Bull,” but how to manage the “palfrey” was a question. Here is how they did it: A long narrow table was padded, the legs wrapped, a head with suitable horns constructed, and the whole thing finally wrapped with white cotton-flannel. “Necessity is the mother of invention.”——A beautiful memorial comes fromone of the members of the circle atHumboldt. “My mother, aged eighty-one years, died March 4th. She was the first one in this county to become interested in the C. L. S. C. She made her eldest grandson a member, bought the books for the first year’s course, and read them first, marking whatever she wished him to notice. At our class meetings she always selected from the Bible the chapter to be read at the opening exercises.… A grand helper has left us.”——AtKeosauquaa circle was organized as long ago as ’82. Of the original eight members only three are left, but the circle has more than held its own, now numbering twelve or more members. They are fortunate in having as a leader a teacher of unusual ability.——AtTabora circle was organized last September, which, with a goodly membership of interested members, is doing excellent work. A Professor from Tabor College has helped this circle much by performing for them chemical experiments.
The Chautauqua work has lost one of its strongest members inCooperstown, Dakota, this year, in the sad death of Mrs. H. G. Pickett, who accidentally shot herself in her husband’s bank in that town. She was an ardent admirer of the Chautauqua work, and her life a true exposition of the truths that the C. L. S. C. is striving to bring into the practical every-day life of its members.——A spirited Shakspere anniversary was celebrated atFaulkton. The parlors where the circle met were filled to overflowing with delighted guests, and full exercises of tragedy, song and jest were carried out.
The “Kate F. Kimball” circle, ofMinneapolis, Kansas, started on its career in October last with a membership of thirteen. Their plan is simple and practical—a sure way of introducing conversation. Each member is required to prepare five questions on the readings, which are given to the circle, and which are then discussed. This method would serve a good purpose in theconversazione.——TheKansas City Journalsuggests that Tuesday night in that city ought to be called Chautauqua night, as nearly a dozen circles meet there on that evening.——The “Clytie,” ofArkansas Cityhas had a severe trial of its loyalty this year. Malarial fever has broken their ranks so that they have been able to hold but a few meetings. It does not dampen their ardor though, and they express all honor and gratitude to Superintendent and Counselors for their wise help. The “Clytie” joins another Kansas circle in protesting against the name “Plymouth Rocks.” This is the “Greenwood,” ofEureka, which declares, “We can not become reconciled to it.” The “Greenwood” does not, however, allow its pleasure in the reading to be spoiled by the class name, for it writes: “Chautauqua gives us a broad departure from our daily cares and ruts which is very refreshing, and we trust it will be of benefit to us.”——Here is a five-year-old Kansas town,Everest, of five hundred inhabitants, with a circle of sixteen members. Here is certainly a chance, with such a start, to grow up with the country.——Greetings to the class of ’86, and to all Chautauquans, come from the circle atLeavenworth. This circle has ten members. Its chief circle interest is the question box, which frequently leads to a lively discussion. They are favored in having secured an excellent leader, the Rev. J. A. Monteith. Several of this class are reading the White Seal course.
There are inNebraskanineteen circles of the C. L. S. C. A strong effort is being made to secure at the Assembly atCrete, in July, a full attendance of representatives from all these organizations. Accept a word of advice fromThe Chautauquan. Go to Crete if you can get there. It will pay you in more than double measure to take part in the exercises of C. L. S. C. day. Of the nineteen circles of Nebraska, the one atLincolntakes the lead, we believe, in numbers. It has reached forty-seven, with an average attendance of about forty. In recognition of the literary character of the circle the Superintendent of Public Instruction in Lincoln has kindly opened a room in the new State House to the circle. The Lincoln circle, as befits its location at the capital of the State, is taking active measures to make the C. L. S. C. day at Crete a success. Already they have attracted public attention by a unique Shaksperean festival, at which a number of guests were entertained.——Another of the nineteen is atFalls City, an ’88 offspring. The circle has seventeen members. An executive committee of three appoints instructors for the review of each meeting, following the plan inThe Chautauquan. The class observed Longfellow day with appropriate exercises. Our Falls City friends have chosen a name with a meaning—“Misselts”—“I will surmount all difficulties.” Not an easy name to take, by any means, but the “Misselts” is made up of school teachers mainly, and what can they not do?——An addition to the Nebraska circles is made atHoldrege. It came about in this way, writes a friend: “I left my home circle in Indiana in December last and started out to ‘try my fortune in the far West.’ I first stopped at Odell, Nebraska, and tried to introduce the ‘Chautauqua Idea’ there. I found it was already being talked of, and by the efficient efforts of a gentleman interested in the movement, a grand, earnest circle was organized. In February I came to Holdrege, the ‘Magic City,’ as it is called, naturally expecting every one to be interested in the C. L. S. C. I had almost decided to give up the course, because I was so busy, when I met a teacher of the town—a ‘Pansy.’ We have formed a circle, and next year instead of having the smallest number possible, expect to compare favorably with any in the State.”——Blairhas a circle of twenty-two members this year. A small circle has been at work in the town for two years, but this year its membership has increased in remarkable proportions. Blair is situated within sight of the Missouri River, and from this noble stream the circle calls itself the “‘Souri.” Occasional parlor meetings for invited friends are enlarging the work rapidly in Blair.
Already we have given our readers hints of the noble way in which Professor Spring has been representing Chautauqua atNew Orleans. His last public exploit was the Shaksperean Anniversary. From a local paper we learn of the success of the undertaking: “The thirty-first birthday of the Stratford-on-Avon bard was celebrated last evening at the Exposition. The ceremonies were gotten up almost entirely by Prof. Edward A. Spring, director of the Chautauqua classes in sculpture. It was hoped that Judge Braughn and other local gentlemen learned in Shaksperean lore would have been present, but a heavy storm prevented. The ceremonies, however, were very successful, though briefer than had been intended. They were presided over by ex-Governor Hoyt, from far-away Wyoming, chief of the jury on education, who made a brief but eloquent oration in commencing the proceedings. He dwelt on the incomparable greatness of Shakspere and the immense influence his writings have had on the many millions of people speaking the English tongue, and showed how, as the centuries roll on and as the English speaking peoples grow and multiply, the luster that attaches to his name must grow brighter and brighter. Following Governor Hoyt, Professor Spring made a neat little speech, setting forth the benefits accruing to those connected with the great educational institutions with which he was connected, and how appropriate it was for the Chautauquans to include in the fifteen great events they commemorate, the birth of Shakspere. Mr. Spring then introduced Mrs. Florence Anderson Clark, of Bonham, Texas, a member of the C. L. S. C., who closed the evening by reading an original poem on Shakspere.”
From the far western frontier ofTexas, atAlbany, comes this letter: “Three of us associated ourselves together the first of October to read the Required Readings of the C. L. S. C. In January we were joined by two more. Our method of study has been to have each member originate twenty questions, to present at each weekly meeting to the members, who on the following week take them up to answer and discuss. The circle has been quietly but seriously working. The benefit ofhaving a certain course of reading has already been felt, and we believe that many others will be influenced to join us the next year.”
Coloradois represented by a circle of seventeen atDelta, a growing young town blessed with many people of culture and refinement. The circle belongs to the ranks of the ’88s, and is proceeding with the vigor characteristic of the class. They luckily can introduce good music as a part of each evening’s program. By the secretary of the Delta circle a word of experience is added: “After pursuing the course of study nearly four years, I can add my testimony as to its great inspiration to all who are systematically keeping it up.”
Carson, Nevada, has the “Sierra Nevada” circle of twenty-five ’88s, a vigorous young life that, in spite of delays in getting books, and the discouragements in starting, is getting along famously. The spread of the C. L. S. C. in the West depends very largely upon the organized circle. The “Sierra Nevadas” have a summer work of bringing in recruits, as well as of making up back lessons.
The flags are flying from the “Green” circle, ofPortland, Oregon, and “we are getting along splendidly,” is their watchword. They write that they are growing more and more enthusiastic, and that the circle is becoming “a joy and a feast of good things” to them all. “Green” circle had a brilliant Longfellow celebration last winter. The feature of it was a Longfellow picture gallery, representing the principal heroes and heroines. A good idea to remember when we come around to February 27, 1886.
The remarkable Floral Festival held inSacramento, California, on May 5th, in honor of Mrs. M. E. Crocker, to whom that city owes so much for her munificent charities and endowments, was participated in by two of the local circles of that city. The “Sacramento” circle sent an elegant tribute to the festival. On a bust about three feet high, decorated with flowers and bearing the letters C. L. S. C., was erected a gateway with gates ajar; within was an open book. The “Vincent” circle sent one equally unique—a pyramid of flowers surmounted with a flower-wreathed pole, from which was suspended a banner of flowers.
The “Alma” circle ofSan Diego, California, consists of seventeen members of the class of ’87. Longfellow’s day was a very pleasant occasion with them. The president tells us: “The good effects of the reading are already to be seen among our numbers; a desire for good and profitable reading being manifested more and more as we pursue the course.”——The Chautauquans ofSan Joséhad a very interesting meeting in celebration of the “Bard of Avon.” A most excellent program was rendered. One of the leading features was a very able critical review of “As You Like It,” read by a lady of the circle.
“Press on, reaching after those things which are before.”
President—J. B. Underwood, Meriden, Conn.Vice President—C. M. Nichols, Springfield, Ohio.Treasurer—Miss Carrie Hart, Aurora, Ind.Secretary—Miss M. M. Canfield, Washington, D. C.Executive Committee—Officers of the class.
President—J. B. Underwood, Meriden, Conn.
Vice President—C. M. Nichols, Springfield, Ohio.
Treasurer—Miss Carrie Hart, Aurora, Ind.
Secretary—Miss M. M. Canfield, Washington, D. C.
Executive Committee—Officers of the class.
There will be excursions from Chautauqua to Niagara Falls every few days during the season, and there will be no difficulty in securing ample and satisfactory accommodations for the class of 1885, or any portion of it.
The challenge of our classmate in Kansas brings forth the following from Maryland: “I see in the MayChautauquana chivalric old gentleman hailing from Kansas, claiming to be the oldest member of the class—being born in the year the battle of Waterloo was fought. Now, I have entered on my seventy-fifth summer, and remember distinctly the battle of Waterloo. But, he claims also to be theyoungest. Now, if I shall have the pleasure of meeting him at Chautauqua, and he is so disposed, we will run a foot race. But, really, this is the time for ‘grave and reverend seigniors’ to speak out. Who comes next?”
Nebraska.—I trust that I shall be numbered with those who shall “pass under the Arches” at dear Chautauqua this summer, thereby proving that I am one who is earnestly striving to “Press on, reaching after those things which are before.” The C. L. S. C. means a great deal to me. These magic letters are the key which unlocks all the enthusiasm of my being. These four years have been a new revelation to me, and have been of deep, abiding interest, and a well-spring of joy. Last year my dearest friend, a devoted Chautauquan, a member of the class of ’85, a thorough “Invincible,” in every sense where right was involved, went on before. Since that time I have read alone, but hope to be one of the successful many who shall pass under the Arches and “begin” again, instead of ending on Commencement day.
An earnest society lady writes: “The whole bent of my life is changed by the C. L. S. C. Next to being a Christian, it is the greatest blessing of my life. I read and listen to sermons and lectures more intelligently, and have been led into a spiritual life.”
Ontario.—I have often felt it my duty to express my thankfulness to the C. L. S. C. for the information I have received from their well chosen books. Words are inadequate to express my gratefulness to Chancellor Vincent and his coadjutors for the great and lasting benefit I have received from this course, although being unable to do the work as thoroughly as I would if time permitted. I complete my four years this summer, and I am more anxious than ever to explore other books which I have not read. This circle of reading has created a desire for some branches that hitherto was dormant, and revived the desire for others. From the first I have been anticipating a trip to Chautauqua, but will be unable to gratify my desire this summer. I hope to be able to receive my diploma at home. I think our class motto is excellent, and hope we will all prove worthy of our name—“Invincible.”
“We study for light, to bless with light.”
President—The Rev. B. P. Snow, Biddeford, Maine.Vice Presidents—The Rev. J. T. Whitley, Salisbury, Maryland; Mr. L. F. Houghton, Peoria, Illinois; Mr. Walter Y. Morgan, Cleveland, Ohio; Mrs. Delia Browne, Louisville, Kentucky; Miss Florence Finch, Palestine, Texas.Secretary—The Rev. W. L. Austin, New Albany, Ind.
President—The Rev. B. P. Snow, Biddeford, Maine.
Vice Presidents—The Rev. J. T. Whitley, Salisbury, Maryland; Mr. L. F. Houghton, Peoria, Illinois; Mr. Walter Y. Morgan, Cleveland, Ohio; Mrs. Delia Browne, Louisville, Kentucky; Miss Florence Finch, Palestine, Texas.
Secretary—The Rev. W. L. Austin, New Albany, Ind.
From all quarters there comes up the assurance from members of ’86 that they mean to be at Chautauqua or Framingham this summer. Attendance at an Assembly, with its enthusiastic “Round-Tables,” conferences upon literature, art and science, new lights upon past reading, and new outlooks for the future, well nigh doubles the value of the course. Come, earnest readers of ’86, and see.
Plans are already being formed for the graduation exercises at Chautauqua next year, and the hardly less interesting observances at the New England Assembly. Any suggestions bearing upon this important matter may be freely made by letter to the president or secretary, by those who can not be present at the Assemblies. The class of ’86 is the firstlargeclass to graduate; it has done grand work in the course, and it means to honor Chautauqua and itself by suitable exercises and observances, when its thousands shall come up to receive from the University their diploma in August, 1886.
We shall hear, personally or by letter, at the Assemblies, from our honorary members, of whom the class of ’86 is justly so proud.
Will members of ’86, in New England, remember the new Hall of Philosophy at Framingham, now under way, and to be completed by July 1st? Send your subscription, if you have not done so; subscribe and send at once if you have not yet taken a share in this grand enterprise, and induce your friends to lend assistance, that the few hundred dollars needed to finish and furnish the building may be at once forthcoming. Remit to N. B. Fisk, Woburn, Mass.
It is hoped that there will be a large number of the New England members at the Framingham Assembly in July.
Let your light shine! hold the torch on high! let every one see that the class of ’86 is true to its name—“Progressives.”
Miss Alice C. Jennings, ’86, whose poems from time to time have appeared inThe Chautauquan, writes as follows: “A severe sickness in childhood deprived me entirely of the sense of hearing. This has been more effectual than bolts and bars in excluding me from all institutions of learning. You can easily imagine how precious to a person so situated must be the opportunities of the C. L. S. C., and of the ‘Society to Encourage Studies at Home.’ At least four of my deaf friends have joined the C. L. S. C. on my own solicitation. We have tried to have a circle among ourselves. We live in five different places, but our headquarters are at Boston Highlands, and we send reports there every month.”