Mr. Thomas B. Fitzpatrick of Boston, the well-known merchant, presided. On his right and left were seated the Hon. John Hannan, mayor of Ogdensburg, N. Y.; the Hon. Charles E. Gorman, Providence, R. I.; the Hon. Joseph H. O’Neil, president of the Federal Trust Co., Boston; Mr. M. F. Dooley, of the Union Trust Co., Providence, R. I.; the Hon. Joseph F. O’Connell, congressman-elect, Boston; Mr. D. H. Tierney, Waterbury, Conn., and the Hon. Daniel O’Connor, Australia. The following letter was received from President-General McGowan: 1739 N. STREET, N. W., WASHINGTON, D. C. January 16, 1907. DEAR MR. MURRAY: I regret exceedingly that I will not be able to attend the annual meeting and dinner on January 24th. My cold does not improve, and unless there is a change very soon, I will have to start for a milder climate. It is a great disappointment to me not to be with you on that day and I beg you will express to all the members of the Society my regret at my enforced absence and the hope that next year I may be more fortunate. My attack of “grippe,” which started the middle of last month, has left me with a most provoking cough, and I do not get my strength back. With kind regards, believe me, Sincerely yours, JOHN MCGOWAN. * * * * * Music was furnished during the banquet by a fine orchestra. Following was the dinner: MENU. Cape Oysters Bisque of Lobster Aux Souffles Consomme Printaniere Paupiette Halibut Au Vin Blanc Potato Croquettes Filet of Beef, Fresh Mushrooms Delmonico Potatoes Stringless Beans Sweetbread Cutlets with Peas Punch a la Romaine Roast Red Head Duck Chiffonade Salad Fancy Assorted Cake Neapolitan Ice Cream Fruit Cheese Small Coffee