"We seem to marvel at nothing in this progressive age. We always wonder what other marvellous inventions may be in store for us to necessitate another Exposition upon a gigantic scale, to be held somewhere in this country. Perhaps within another decade, when the Isthmian canal is finished, the golden stream which will connect the waters of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, we may celebrate at the national capital city the greatest event of the twentieth century, bringing to the commerce of the world peace and plenty. At the same time we may hope to celebrate the establishment of our American merchant marine, the one thing needed to carry our American products and goods into the harbors of the world, floating the Stars and Stripes now so seldom witnessed upon the ocean vessels. This country seems to forge ahead at a rapid pace, not only in its material wealth, but in everything that tends to the happiness of our people, even the humblest citizens sharing in the general prosperity. Every section has cause to rejoice--the South with its cotton, the North with its financial resources, the West with its farm products, the East with its industries, all seem to participate in the general welfare of the country. In conclusion let me thank you again for the courtesy extended to our people, and we wish you great success in this stupendous enterprise." At the conclusion of Mr. Schieren's remarks the presiding officer said: "For many years the _Brooklyn Times_ was owned and edited by the late Mr. Bernard Peters. He was a man of strict integrity, high moral ideals, and a forceful writer. The editorial chair of the _Times_ is now occupied by his son, Thomas P. Peters, a worthy son of a worthy sire. Ladies and gentlemen, I take pleasure in introducing to you the orator of the day, Mr. Thomas P. Peters." Mr. Peters was greeted with hearty applause as he arose. His oration in part follows: ORATION OF MR. PETERS "To speak a word for Brooklyn at this time, I was not the first choice of the Committee of Arrangements. Unanimously that honor was assigned to one of Brooklyn's favorite sons. But sickness of a most serious nature overtook him only a few days ago, and after a brief illness, he was early last Wednesday morning called to his final rest. Although upon pleasure bent, our hearts are sorrowful because of this loss to Brooklyn.