fully displayed. As far
as the eye could reach the brilliant procession filled the streets,
presenting a glittering, undulating line of infantry, artillery,
firemen, laddermen, axemen, zouaves, cadets, grangers, masons,
templars, highlanders, citizens, &c, with gleaming arms, rustling
flags, soul-stirring music, and other manifestations of patriotic
enthusiasm. Nearly every window, piazza and house-top was crowded with
feminine loveliness, to cheer with their smiles and lend their
graceful approbation to the _moving_ exhibitions of the occasion. On
the side-walks "miles of spectators" were seen submitting to the
stifling effects of clouds of dust, with the laudable desire "to see
and be seen." While immense flags were floating to the breeze across
the principal streets, countless numbers of miniature ones, in red,
white and blue, fluttered from windows and porches. A large number of
military and fire companies followed by delegations of the Masonic
Order, Good Templars, Odd Fellows, Caledonian Clubs, Grangers, invited
guests, visitors, &c, all joined in the grand procession to the fair
grounds.

EXERCISES AT THE FAIR GROUNDS.

Arriving at the Fair Grounds, the immense concourse of people gathered
around the large stand, which had been erected amidst a clump of
trees, for the ladies and invited guests. The stand was beautifully
decorated with evergreens, festoons, flags, hornets' nests, and other
emblematic devices. The ladies of the city had been diligently weaving
these evergreen and floral adornments for several days preceding the
Centennial. A precious bouquet and wreath, sent by Mrs. L.H. Walker,
from the grounds of Washington's tomb at Mt. Vernon, added a venerated
sanctity to the whole.

At 11 o'clock, Rev. Dr. A.W. Miller, of the First Presbyterian Church,
opened the exercises with an eloquent prayer. The "Old North State"
was then rendered in stirring tones by the Citizens' Band.

Ex-Gov. Graham then called the assembly to order, and said there was
cause to congratulate the vast assemblage of patriotic citizens
convened on this centennial occasion, for the bright, auspicious
weather that prevailed, and for the general health and prosperity of
the country. He felt highly gratified with the patriotic
demonstration, and rejoiced to see in our midst so many prominent
citizens from sister States. The Governor of North Carolina, and
several of the Judges of her Courts were present. The Governor of the
far-off