The closing examinations occupied nearly two days, May 31st and June 1st. The attendance of parents and other visitors was larger than at any previous occasion for some years past, showing perhaps an increasing interest in educational matters. Most of the older scholars (about fifteen of them) had left previously to teach country schools; but the classes which were examined acquitted themselves remarkably well. The questioning by the teachers threw them upon their own resources, and proved the excellent instruction they have had. The noticeable quickness and readiness of answer, and the mastery of each branch of study, showed that they have been trained to think for themselves, and not merely to learn by rote. In reading, geography, history, grammar, composition, arithmetic, algebra, natural philosophy, and other branches, the scholars showed very commendable proficiency, and again answered the often-answered question, “Can the negro learn?” One thing highly commended by all the visitors, and an important feature of the instruction, was the constant use of writing. The scholars spell out their lessons by writing on slate or black-board. They frequently prepare written compositions or reviews of lessons in grammar and geography, and in many ways are taught to express in written characters the thoughts drawn from their studies. Thus the facts are firmly fixed in mind, and they learn also by the same process to write, spell, capitalize, punctuate and compose. Some of the exercises written as ordinary lessons displayed handsome penmanship. Several leading white citizens attended the exercises, and expressed themselves as being much pleased. Among them were Professor Williams, principal of the State Asylum for the Blind, located here, a firm friend of negro education; and Professor Link, a professional teacher of many years’ experience, who said, significantly, in private: “I attend all the white schools, and I don’t see any difference”—which is quite an admission for a native Southerner. There was also Rev. J. W. Burke, a leading Methodist Episcopal clergyman, publisher and assistant editor of the _Wesleyan Christian Advocate_, well known as an excellent Christian man and a true friend of the negro. All the visitors showed decided interest and pleasure. A violent rain-storm arising in the afternoon doubtless kept away many who would have attended.