And now, in conclusion, allow me to make a national and patriotic, as well as individual application of the motto which you bear upon your banner. You remember the origin of palms. They were first given to those among the Romans who were victorious in their games. It was done in imitation of the Grecian practice of rewarding the victor in the Olympic feats. And the reason why the palm-tree was made choice of for the purpose, is because in its growth, it would raise itself above any weight that might be placed upon it. Indeed the palm-tree is said by some writers to flourish most when most oppressed. And the palm-tree may be associated by a most appropriate and beautiful simile with the American character. Behold it rising from the soil in its strength, making its way through every opposing obstacle, pushing even the huge rocks aside, and shooting its head through the air, until it stands in its majesty, a giant in size and in power, defying the wind and the storm, and yet bowing gently before the breeze that moves among its branches. See the tall trunk and proportioned foliage showing the tree to the sun, a thing of beauty as well as of majesty,――of grace as well as power. Need I make the application? Turn your thoughts to the years when the iron hand of oppression lay heavily upon the fathers of this nation. See how they rose above the power that oppressed them; how they removed the difficulties that surrounded them; how they pushed aside the mountain barriers that hung over them; and, how the proud head of the American came up. See how, amid toil, and tears, and blood, the glory of the American character arose and shone. See how, in its majesty and in its might, it appeared before the world, that wondered at its dignity and grace, while it trembled at its power. CONCLUSION. In this simile is seen what an appropriate emblem the palm is of the American character. May that simile be perpetual! May it be the pride of the American youth to sustain it! Let no danger, no difficulty, no oppression, let nothing whatever be an impediment in the path of the young American to fame. And in whatever department of life his lot may be cast, let him study, let him labor, and let him pursue his way with persevering diligence. Then may he obtain the point of success at which he aims. Boys, let your eyes be fixed upon the model I have set before you in the character of the immortal Washington, and let your mind and heart be ever on the motto, PALMAM QUI MERUIT FERAT. And when, after the toil of years, you have won the laurel, while you are proud of the American character, your country will be proud of you. [Illustration: THE END.] SCHOOL AND MISCELLANEOUS BOOKS, PUBLISHED BY J. MURPHY. A COMPENDIUM OF ANCIENT AND MODERN HISTORY, with Questions adapted to the use of schools and academies. By M. J. Kerney. This work has been introduced as a Text book into several colleges and academies, in Maryland and the Western States.