Negroes is greater than I thought. While I am entirely independent of public opinion, the reflection on my friends Mr. ---- and Dr. ---- has been very great." * * * * * LETTER FROM A FORMER STUDENT AT MOBILE. Dear Friend: I entered Emerson Institute the first Monday in October of 1892, but long before that time I had contemplated going there to school, though not having any immediate support I could not attend until the above-named time. Just two days before I entered the school I had accepted a position as clerk, but seeing the great need of an education I quit immediately and entered school. When I entered Emerson I had not been in school for about seven years, but had to some extent been engaged in study. I had no sure means of support, but was determined to educate myself. Our principal, seeing my earnestness, gave me the privilege of living at the "Home," which enabled me to work out my board and tuition. I gladly accepted. And it is here the lasting influence began its effect upon me. Indeed, I cannot state the first impression made, but I do know the best; that is, it was here I became a Christian and was made to accept Christ as my Saviour. I think I professed religion in March of 1893, during Mr. Moore's work there. From this step I began to build a principle that would be able to stand the many temptations that would come upon me. The next best thing, it was here (at Emerson) I was made to realize the evil effect of alcoholic liquors, and when, as before that time, I had some toleration for wine, etc., I pledged myself against it and became a strong defender of "Prohibition." I was fortunate in being awarded a prize for the best-made speech on Prohibition in a contest given by Emerson Institute on May 22, 1894; and I almost decided to become a temperance lecturer. It is impossible for me to enumerate the myriad of good influences that have surrounded me by being a student in Mobile. But permit me to say that if there is any one thing in earth that I owe for my stableness in that which is right, it is my having been immediately under the good influences of Emerson Institute and its earnest teachers. I have been made to see the power of a good education. My mind, heart, and soul have been broadened; and now I am able to look upon humanity from a broader point of view. It has certainly given me a more congenial spirit, and wherein I may have been conceited, I am not now. One very important influence is that I have decided to never stop short of the very best possible education. I have been made to believe that morality is the only standard for ideal Christianity.