I think our readers need not be told that Mr. Hall is a busy man. Rev. John M. Palmer, his pastor, says, "Few men so prosperous in business, so comfortable in possession of this world's goods, show such ardent devotion for church-work and active participation in all its varied forms, as does Mr. Walter Hall, at the same time meeting the requirements of the several positions which he holds. As class leader, trustee, steward, and Sunday-school superintendent, he is always on hand. Among the members of his class none are so poor but that he will hunt them up when sick, to offer with them a word of prayer, and very often giving them financial aid. One old member said, before passing away, 'How he has helped me! God will bless him!'" S. L. PARKER. [Illustration: S. L. PARKER, LAUREL, DEL.] Mr. S. L. Parker, whose picture I give here, belongs to that class of men who are able to not only do what they have seen others do, but able to create something out of almost nothing. Mr. Parker, when a mere boy, began business for himself in the town of Laurel, Delaware, in the month of May, 1885, with a stock of $19.50 worth of goods, bought on credit of a friend. At that time for a colored man to attempt to sell anything in Laurel, except gingerbread on the street corners, or fish on the street, was looked upon with no little curiosity, for, while Delaware is practically a Northern State, I was surprised to see what a great amount of race prejudice existed in it. At first, Mr. Parker was regarded as a lazy fellow, trying to get his living without hard work. But we are glad to note that he was fairly well patronized from the beginning of his business career. On account of his lack of business knowledge he met with several reverses during his first three years' experience; but, by constant efforts on his part, he gradually gained a footing that is regarded by even his opposers as firm and secure. So great has been his progress that last year his business amounted to over $10,000. He now conducts a general grocery store, manufactures ice cream for both wholesale and retail, having over $1,300 worth of machinery for that use. He has two ice cream parlors, which are well patronized by the very best people in the town, without any discrimination whatever. He also handles the ice business of the place, running two delivery wagons. He has packed this year 1,000 tons of ice for his next season's trade. In addition to his business already mentioned, Mr. Parker, during the season, ships large amounts of fruit and produce. I am glad to add to what has been said of our subject, I found, while in the town, that he had the respect and esteem of the very best people. H. A. TANDY.