On Sunday evening, in the Congregational Church, Rev. Dana Sherrill preached a sermon to the members of the graduating class, taking for his text Phil. iii., 13, 14. Gathering up the lessons learned, but forgetting past attainments, they should be ever striving for something better beyond. The kind, practical counsel found, at least, attentive listeners. Said one graduate: “That was our New Year’s motto. I shall never forget it now.” A new feature of our anniversary exercises was a juvenile concert. On Monday night a goodly company gathered in our chapel. One hundred and forty children greeted them with a song. The choruses were rendered with enthusiasm. Of particular interest were the solos and action songs by the little Primaries. A solo, “I’se gwine to Alabama,” given by one of the older boys, was thoroughly enjoyed. The net sum of $32.00 was raised for the increase of our library fund. It was interesting to watch the delighted parents during the sociability of the “breaking up.” Wednesday came, with clouds in the morning, and at the hour appointed for the public exercises, rain falling in torrents. Yet nearly every child was in place, and extra chairs were brought for the gathered spectators. The exercises consisted of recitations, dialogues and songs. As the children performed the parts assigned each, I did not wonder that both teachers and mothers “felt proud.” An invitation to examine work done by members of the sewing class was generally accepted, giving the happy parents fresh cause for pride. We decided to hold our graduating exercises on Wednesday evening. At an early hour every seat was taken, while numbers were standing in the aisles and halls. Girls in pretty white dresses and boys in fresh spring suits, march in and take seats reserved. A sweet song by the girls opened the exercises. Prayer was offered and the Lord’s Prayer chanted. Reading, declamations and recitations followed. Conversation between several girls concerning their plans for life brought “sincerity,” a fairy, into their midst. Her waving banner proclaimed to each the simple words, “Be true.” The graduates read their essays and received their diplomas, accompanied by kind words from the Superintendent. Mr. S., rising, called to him a boy of fifteen years and said: “A scholarship was offered to the one who should excel in general scholarship, punctuality and deportment. I hold in my hand a paper stating that you, having done this, are entitled to the same.” Amid hearty applause the gift was received with smiles and thanks. A few words from Mr. Callen, a colored preacher, and one of our pupils; a parting song, a gathering in the school-room for the “good-night,” and then we said good-by. * * * * * BREWER NORMAL INSTITUTE. REV. L. C. JOELL.