, grasping him by both hands, he
said, "Fillmore, I am proud of you! Solaris is more than proud of the
masterful way in which you have treated the entire subject! Your
presentation of the theme, seemed to me to be so perfect, so exhaustive
and eloquent, that in the future I may not expect to again hear its
equal."

The next moment Fern Fenwick came forward, radiant in her loveliness,
her beautiful eyes shining with emotions of love and gratified pride. In
a voice, whose clear, well modulated tones, thrilled him as no music
could, she said, "Nobly done, Mr. Flagg! I knew you would not disappoint
me! Your speech was the most lovely poem in prose that I have ever
heard! So perfectly charming, that I find it far beyond my best words of
praise! In return for such an eloquent tribute, the trees should join in
a grateful anthem! You have sounded the key-note; it is the evident
destiny of co-operative farming in the twentieth century, to restore
these noble trees to their rightful domain."

The banquet, which followed the oration proved a great success. It was
really one long, interwoven garland of witty speech and inspiring music,
together with the merry jingle and melodious crash of silver and china.
The enjoyable zest of the entertainment, was spiced and flavored with
the appetizing aroma of an abundance of delicious, well-cooked food.
Placed at the head of the first table, our hero and heroine were at all
times the center of attraction; the observed of all observers. "A
handsome couple, evidently heaven-ordained for each other," was the
universal comment.

The dance in the evening, was fittingly chosen as the closing function
of this famous festival. In arranging the program, Fern and Fillmore
were selected by the floor managers as the leading couple. Inspired by
the music of an excellent band under the leadership of Gilbert Gerrish,
the assembled guests with the vigor and enthusiasm of youth caught the
prevailing spirit of merriment, and gave themselves up to the
fascinating movement of musical measures. Lost in the charm of the mazy
dance, the merrymakers noted not the flight of time. The last number on
the program came all too soon for them.

Dismissed by George Gerrish, the people of Solaris left the hall in a
joyful mood. They declared with one accord, that the day of the
tree-planting festival, had proved the happiest one on the farm.

CHAPTER XXIX.

THE STORY OF GILBERT GERRISH; OR, THE STRENGTH OF THE W