the proprieties of the occasion, and
thus justified the bestowment of a marked honor upon them,--it may be
remarked, I say, that they thus enjoyed a distinction rarely if ever
before conferred upon members of a minstrel troupe.

While in Boston in 1876, the company were invited to a "camp-fire" of
Grand Army Post 115, composed for the most part of ex-officers of high
rank, and all gentlemen of education and good social position. On this
occasion, their own classical quartet and that of the "Georgias"
united in presenting some of the most exquisite music, while other
pleasing incidents of the evening rendered it one long to be
remembered. In the same city, at another time, they were entertained
at the residence of one of the most accomplished of its musicians. I
mention these pleasant occurrences simply to show the character and
extent of the popularity which this excellent troupe everywhere wins:
for to please a miscellaneous throng in public halls and theatres,
and, after the curtain falls at the close of the performance, to be
almost forgotten by the same, is the experience of most all minstrel
companies; but to be sought after when off the stage by people of the
best character, and invited to contribute with their fine musical
attainments and social qualities to the enjoyments of select private
circles, is a distinction, in the constant winning of which the
Georgia Minstrels stand almost if not entirely alone.

And now, as proofs of the great popularity of this company on the
stage, I shall present a few from among the many press notices,
regarding their performances, in my possession. These, while fully in
harmony with what I have said respecting the merits of these famous
performers, add some points of interesting description.

Says "The New-York Sun,"--

"Every song was encored some two or three times."

"The New-York Herald,"--

"The new melodies find in them the fittest interpretations."

"The Memphis Appeal,"--

"We might write a column of praise, and even then there
would be something unsaid of their merit. They are good in
every thing they attempt."

"The Indianapolis Journal,"--

"We doubt if a more successful entertainment of this kind
has ever been given in this city. We no longer wonder that
Boston sent forty thousand to hear them at the Hub."

"The Petersburg (Va.) Index,"--

"We do not hesitate to pronounce Callender's Minstrels the
supe