on brought a small company of ladies and gentlemen from
the city, on invitation, to examine the collections of botanical
specimens presented by the pupils in that branch, and to select the
two most worthy. A number of very creditable collections were offered,
the competition was close, and resulted in the giving of three prizes.

Specimens of work in the sewing department and in carpentry were
opened to the public for inspection, and called forth deserved
commendation. Instruction in both of these departments is greatly
needed, and it is gratifying to note the marks of progress in the use
of the needle and in the use of carpenters' tools. The drawing by the
boys in the shop work was very noticeable.

The Annual Concert is a strong feature at Tillotson. People come from
miles around and fill the chapel to overflowing always, on Tuesday
evening before commencement. A slight admission fee is charged, to
help meet expense for music and incidentals. Early in the year, it was
decided to present on this occasion something a little more serious
than usual. It was anticipated that this might not be so popular, and
that there would be a falling off in receipts from sale of tickets.
Still it was felt that we ought to do something towards elevating the
standard along these lines.

Selections from the Oratorio of Elijah were chosen for this occasion.
At first the older students, upon whose hearty co-operation everything
depended, expressed their fears as to the result. But courage and
patience won the day with them. As they went forward with preparations
enthusiasm took the place of criticism. All fell into line, working
cheerfully and faithfully, drilling for the entertainment. Several of
the leading musicians of Austin became interested in the work of the
students, and attended the concert. They expressed great surprise and
pleasure at the success of the singers. This seems a good start in a
much needed improvement.

Wednesday, June first, came the graduation exercises.

The flowers of Texas are abundant and lend themselves for adorning
public halls with charming effect. For each of the public
entertainments of the week the chapel had been given a new array of
flowers and green, with variations striking and beautiful. This
morning the chapel seemed brighter than ever.

The only graduating address was upon "Literature and Authorship, with
the Valedictory." The young speaker, only nineteen, has already made
his mark as a writ