lmore, the cheering ceased and the audience
became seated. He then introduced Fern Fenwick by a neat little speech
which provoked another storm of applause more demonstrative than the
first.

When order was again restored, at a signal from George Gerrish the
double quartet of mixed voices, which had been selected from the singers
of the musical club, came forward and, in a style which reflected much
credit on the club, gave a song of welcome composed for this particular
reception, and entitled; "She comes, she comes, she comes to us; our
wise and lovely patroness." This song, which created a real sensation,
was followed by an eloquent address of welcome delivered by George
Gerrish in his official capacity, as president of the company. His
remarks were seconded and emphasized most vigorously by long continued
demonstrations of approval from the assembled members.

In response, Fern Fenwick replied at some length in her most charming
manner. Turning to George Gerrish, she said:

"To you, the president, and through you, to the officers, members and
children of the company here assembled, I offer my sincere thanks for
the honor conferred, and for the pleasure given to me by this delightful
reception. The sentiments of kindly greeting, of keen appreciation, of
admiring approval, so beautifully expressed in your address of welcome,
have touched me deeply. I am so profoundly moved, that my heart
overflows with grateful emotions! Equally charming, and even more
gracious to me were the words and music of the song which your sweet
singers have rendered so artistically. These testimonials have so
wonderfully impressed me that I can not forget them! As the years come
and go, I shall cherish the bright memories of this eventful evening, as
added jewels with which to mark and adorn the shining links, interwoven
with the chain of my experience in life. These memories shall also serve
to strengthen my already intense interest in this most extraordinary
farm. A farm with such a wide range of improvements; with such an
imposing collection of large well constructed buildings; with so many
profitable allied industries in the full tide of successful operation;
with a general equipment so magnificent, that at every turn I am
astonished and delighted. I now understand why and how you have
succeeded in transforming the hated drudgery of farm labor into such a
pleasant, desirable occupation.

"Since the beginning of the enterprise, my inter