AN EXERCISE FOR CHILDREN'S DAY

(The two master builders standing together)

Master Builder. Dear friends: The Bible tells us that all are builders. That some are wise and others are foolish. That some are building on the sand, without any protection against the storms and floods, that will surely cause their fall. That some are building with wood, hay or stubble; or with gold, silver and precious stones, without any protection against the day, when the fire will consume these perishable materials. That others, however are building safely and securely, with divinely appointed materials, on the Rock of Ages and the unchanging, impregnable Word of God. That the indwelling Spirit, commonly called the Comforter, is the occupant, strength and life of their temple; and their conscientious observance of the Sabbath, is to them the pledge of Divine favor and the visible sign of their sure protection.

Assistant Builder. All of you no doubt are familiar with the words of the poet, Longfellow:

"All are architects of fate Building on the walls of time; Some with massive deeds and great, Others with the ornaments of rhyme. For the structures that we raise God's Word is with materials filled; And our todays and yesterdays Reveal the materials with which we build."

"We have planned today to build A temple—on earth, a heaven; A temple on rocks so solid, And with materials divinely given, That all who hear the Master's call To service and an endless life, May of this be sure, whatever befall They have builded for time aright."

Life is what we make it out of what God puts within our reach, and every act is a foundation stone for the next one. Walking in the truth, adding to our faith and building a temple all mean advancing one step or stone at a time.

Master Builder. The white stone referred to in Revelation was an emblem of pardon and a badge of friendship.

The stone ordinarily is an emblem of solidity and enduring strength. In this sense it is an emblem of an eternal truth, or principle. When Peter confessed, "Thou art the Christ," Jesus said in regard to his confession, "Thou art Peter, and on this rock" or fundamental truth, "I am Christ," "I will build my church; and the gates of hell (hades) shall not prevail against it."

David tells us "The Lord set his feet upon a rock." He calls the Lord a rock, a fortress and a high tower; and entreats the Lord to "lead him to the rock that is higher than I." Peter speaks of Jesus as a living stone, and of believers as lively stones that form a spiritual house, an holy priesthood.

We are now ready for the foundation.

"And as we build, let each one pray, That we may build aright; That all we do on earth may be Well pleasing in God's sight."

Chorus. "We're building up the temple, Building up the temple Building up the temple of the Lord."

Bearer: We bring the corner stone on which our temple rests.

Master Builder: This stone represents our Lord Jesus, the sure foundation. Let us hear of this stone, the Rock of Ages, what the Bible may tell.

Bearer: "Behold I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious; and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe, he is precious; but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders rejected, the same is made the head of the corner. Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."

He said of himself, I am the light of the world. I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Without me ye can do nothing. My grace is sufficient for thee.

Paul said of him, "We preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling-block and unto the Greeks foolishness; but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God."

Asst. Bearer: Peter said: "Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought by you builders—the Jews—which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven, given among men whereby we must be saved."

Bearer: "We bring another stone for the foundation."

M. B. "This stone represents the Word of God that endureth forever. Let us hear of this stone what the Bible may tell."

Bearer: "Thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus.

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect; thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

"The law of the Lord is perfect; converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether."

Asst. Bearer. "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."

"Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and my words, of him shall the Son of Man be ashamed when he shall come in his own glory, and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels."

"Ye are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord, for a habitation of God through the Spirit." See John 1. 4,14.

M. B. The two fold foundation of our glorious temple has now been laid. It consists of the Rock of Ages and the Word of God that endureth forever. We are now ready for those good materials for the walls of the temple that are better than wood, hay or stubble, gold, silver or precious stones.

FAITH. Bearer: We bring the stone that represents Faith.

Master Builder: Faith is a goodly stone, and it fits right well. Let us hear of Faith what the Bible may tell.

(Adjust and repeat for the other stones.)

Bearer: By grace are ye saved through Faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.

God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life.

Asst. Bearer: Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. They which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful. Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life. See also Rom. 10:8-10.

VIRTUE—COURAGE. B: Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just; whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Thou therefore my son, Timothy, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus and endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

Asst. B: The Lord said unto Joshua, "Be strong and of a good courage: that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses, my servant commanded thee; that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." See also Eph. 6:10-17.

KNOWLEDGE. B: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God and that the spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy: for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. See Prov. 4:7-8; 3:16-17

TEMPERANCE. Abstain from all appearance of evil. If meat make my brother to offend I will eat no meat while the world standeth. The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law. And 2 Pet. 1:5-6.

PATIENCE. In your patience possess ye your souls. Let us run with patience the race that is set before us; looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

GODLINESS. "Great is the mystery of Godliness: God manifest in the flesh, believed on in the world and received up into glory. Godliness with contentment is great gain. Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come. Fear God and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."

KINDNESS. "Be ye kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Love ye your enemies, and do good; lend hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil."

CHARITY. "Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long and is kind. Charity envieth not; beareth all things, believeth all things, endureth all things. And now abideth faith, hope and charity, these three, but the greatest of these is charity." Luke 10:27. I John 3:17.

All repeat 2 Pet. 1:5-8, and review the foundations.

THE SABBATH. "The Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath: therefore the Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath, and the apostle John calls it the Lord's day."

"From the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and the first day of the week ever since to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian Sabbath."

"And the Lord spake unto Moses saying, verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep, for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever."

Isaiah refers to the Sabbath as a pledge of divine favor. "If thou call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord and shalt honor it, not doing thine own ways; I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father."

Ezekiel, a prophet of the captivity, older than Daniel and faithful even unto death, refers four times to the pollution of the Sabbath as one of the principal causes of the captivity. "The word of the Lord came unto me, saying, I gave them my Sabbaths to be a sign between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them. But the house of Israel walked not in my statutes, and my Sabbaths they greatly profaned. Then I said I would greatly pour out my fury upon them to consume them and scatter them among the heathen."

Abraham Lincoln very truly observed, "As we keep or break the Sabbath day, we nobly save or meanly lose the last best hope by which man rises."

Washington and Lincoln, apart from what they did, were great men. The divine element of a God given character belonged to each. Goodness is the basis of greatness, and greatness is character; the ability and willingness to serve.

All unite in repeating the fourth commandment.

THE DESIGN. It can be ornamented with a gilt cross and decorated with evergreen festoons pendant over the ends. Bouquets of the same color can be laid at the corresponding angles.

THE CROSS. "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."—Paul.

The children bringing bouquets can be supplied with short exercises like the following.

I bring these flowers: Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

These beautiful flowers I bring, A grateful offering to my king.

I bring these pretty flowers, A fragrant relic of Eden's bowers.

I bring these roses fair To Him who hears my evening prayer.

I bring to him this pretty rose, Who died and from the dead arose, To save us all from all our foes.

These flowers I bring to him of whom it was said, "I am the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valleys."

"By their fruits ye shall know them." This is the present test of character; of men, their teachings and institutions.

Fruit, FRUIT, MORE FRUIT. Every branch that beareth not FRUIT He taketh away; every branch that beareth FRUIT He purgeth it, that it may bring forth MORE FRUIT

"In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea. With a glory in his bosom that transfigures you and me; As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free, While God is marching on."

See also Math. 7:30; John 15:5-8, 14, 15.

Repeat in unison the call of Jesus for the children:

"Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven."

OPPORTUNITY FOR DECISION

Daniel in his youth, purposed in his heart, not to defile himself by eating the king's meat or the wine which he drank. Joshua expressed his decision to all Israel, saying, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

Choose ye this day whom ye will serve? While the congregation is standing and singing an appropriate, familiar hymn, encourage every undecided person present, to accept Jesus as their savior; and to indicate with the uplifted hand, their decision to live a Christian life.

Provide testaments or bibles for those needing them.

BUILDING DAY BY DAY

"We are building in sorrow and building in joy A temple the world cannot see. But we know it will stand, if we found it on a rock, Through the ages of eternity. Cho. We are building day by day As the moments glide away, Our temple which the world may not see. Every victory won by grace Will be sure to find a place In our building for eternity.

"Every deed forms a part in this building of ours, That is done in the name of the Lord; For the love that we show And the kindness we bestow He has promised us a bright reward. Then be watchful and wise Let the temple we rear Be one that no tempest can shock; For the Master has said And He taught us in His word We must build upon the solid rock." —H. E. Blair

GROWING UP FOR JESUS

"Growing up for Jesus, we are truly blest, In His smile is welcome, in His arms our rest, In His truth our treasure, in His word our rule, Growing up for Jesus, in our Sunday School. Growing up for Jesus, till in Him complete, Growing up for Jesus, oh! His work is sweet; In His truth our treasure, in His word our rule, Growing up for Jesus, in our Sunday School.

"Not too young to love Him, little hearts beat true, Not too young to serve Him, as the dew drops do. Not too young to praise Him, singing as we come, Not too young to answer, when He calls us home. Growing up for Jesus, learning day by day, How to follow onward in the narrow way; Seeking holy treasure, finding precious truth, Growing up for Jesus in our happy youth." —Pres. Board Publication.

OUR HAPPY LAND

A Favorite Children's Chorus.

Land of children, birds and flowers, What a happy land is ours! Here the gladdest bells are rung, Here the sweetest songs are sung. With Thy banner o'er us, Join we all in chorus, Land of children, birds and flowers What a happy land is ours.

Let us keep it so we pray, Drive the clouds of sin away; Father by Thy love divine Make us, keep us ever Thine. With Thy banner o'er us, etc. Keep us Lord from day to day In the straight and narrow way. May it be our chief delight, To walk upright in Thy sight; With Thy banner o'er us, etc.

What a happy land What a happy land is ours, Here the gladdest bells are rung, Here the sweetest songs are sung; Freedom's banner o'er us, Join we all in chorus, Land of children, birds and flowers, What a happy land is ours.

THE ARCH

The arch, which appears on another page, illustrates in a very striking manner the mutual dependence of all the stones, representing the divinely appointed elements of character, on their crown, the keystone, which represents the Sabbath or fourth commandment, the connecting link between the first and second tables of the law and the visible bond of every man and nation to his Creator.

When the keystone has been placed in position the arch will sustain considerable weight, but if it be removed nearly all of the other stones tumble to the floor in a confused heap. Those who do not remember the Sabbath to keep it holy unto the Lord, may manifest some of these divinely appointed elements of character, but every one who conscientiously observes the Sabbath as a day for public worship, reading and teaching the Word of God, endeavors to develop all of them. The indwelling spirit is dependent on an intelligent knowledge of the Word, and the strengthening influence of the Sabbath is usually according to the good use that is made of it.

EXPLANATORY

A couple of cracker boxes inverted serve for the two foundation stones. The parts of the temple consist of frames made of thin strips, about five inches wide. Each stone is about three inches shorter and one and one-half inches narrower than the one below it, and it rests on supporting strips inserted in the top of the lower one. All can be set aside in the lower one when they are inverted. All are covered with white printing paper and the letters are fastened with little tacks.

The large letters are 2-1/2x1-1/4 and the small ones 1-1/2x7-8 inches. A bright red color is essential in order to produce the nicest effect. They can be cut very speedily and uniformly if the cardboard is first ruled with a pen, into squares the size of the letters, and then ruled with a pencil one-fourth of an inch distant from the ink rulings.

The arch is four feet wide at the base. The inner circle is described with a radius of two and the outer one of three feet. The curved edges of each are cut with a scroll saw. Strips of orange boxes or sheets of card board, one foot long, are used to nail on their straight edges. All are covered with cheese cloth or muslin and the letters are placed on a curved line. The arch and temple can both be built on a smaller scale with box board. The lifting of the keystone of the arch, when first inserted is a very interesting performance.

REFERENCES

TEMPLE: 1 Cor. 3:16-17; Math. 7:24-27; Luke 6:47-49; 1 Cor. 3:12-15; James 1:22-24; Rev. 2:17; Ps. 18:2; 31:2-3; 71:35; 40:2; 61:2; 62:2.

JESUS. Isa. 28:16; 1 Peter 2:6; Math. 16:15-18; John 1:1-2-14; Dan. 2:34-35; 1 Cor. 8:11; Math 21:42-44; Acts 4:10-12; 1 Peter 2:4-6.

WORD. 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 1 Peter 1:20-21; Ps. 19:7,10; Heb. 4:12; Ps. 119:105,130; Isa. 40:8; Math. 24:35; Mark 13:31; Luke 9:26; Eph. 2:19-22.

FAITH. John 3:16, 36; Heb. 11:1-3; Eph. 2:4-8; Acts 16:31; Heb. 11:23-26; Mark 11:22-23; Gal. 3:6-9; Luke 16:10.

VIRTUE. Phil. 4:8; Josh. 1:6-9; 2 Tim 2:1-3; 1 John 2:13-14.

KNOWLEDGE. John 17:3; 1 Cor. 3:16-17; Prov. 1:7; Isa. 11:1-2, 33, 6; Prov. 4:7-8; 3:16-17.

TEMPERANCE. Gal. 5:22-24; 1 Cor. 8:13; 2 Peter 1:5-6; Gen. 2:16-17; Dan. 1:8; Thess. 5:22.

PATIENCE. Luke 21:19; James 5:11; Heb. 10:35-36; 12:1-2.

GODLINESS. 1 Tim. 4:8; 6:6-7; 3:16; Ec. 12:13-14.

KINDNESS. Eph. 4:32; Luke 6:35; Ps. 103:2-4.

CHARITY. 1 Cor. 13:4-8; 13:1-3; 2 Peter 1:5-8.

SABBATH. Ex. 20:8-11; Mark 2:27-28; Ex. 31:13-17; Isa. 58:13-14; Ezek. 20:13, 16, 20, 24; Luke 4:16:18; Rev. 1:10.



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MAXIMS AND SUGGESTIONS

RELATING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF A GOOD CHARACTER AND THE ACHIEVEMENT OF GOOD SUCCESS—NUGGETS FROM SHORT TALKS TO THE STUDENTS ON FRIDAY EVENINGS.

"Precept upon precept, line upon line, here a little and there a little." Proverbs.

Unstable as water thou shalt not excel. Jacob.

Be gentle in manner, firm in principle, always conciliatory.

Go forward; and if difficulties increase, go forward more earnestly.

In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity. Augustine.

Find a way or make one, is excellent; but sometimes it needs to read, Find employment or make it.

Whatever cannot be avoided must be endured. Endure hard things bravely.

Patience and Perseverance will perform great wonders.

Early to bed and early to rise will make a man healthy, wealthy and wise. Ben Franklin.

Whoever wins man's highest stature here below must grow, and never cease to grow—for when growth ceases, death begins. Alice Carey.

"There is so much bad in the best of us, And so much good in the worst of us; It is hardly fair for any of us, To speak ill of the rest of us."

If thou wouldst know the secret of a happy life, rise in the morn, with armor clasped about thee, for the day's long strife. "Thy duty do."

The very angels then will stoop, when the night brings rest, to cradle thee in heavenly arms because thou didst thy best. Jennings.

Bear and forbear are two good bears to have in every home, in order to keep peace in the family. Grin and bear it, is another good one. Impatience, scolding and fault-finding are three black bears, that make every one feel badly and look ugly. Don't harbor them.

BIBLE PRECEPTS. Faithful is the Bible word for success.

He that is faithful, is faithful in that which is least.

Owe no man anything. Render to all their dues.

Be not wise in your own conceits. A wise son maketh a glad father; but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.

Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you.

Wisdom is the principal thing, therefore get wisdom. Her ways are ways of pleasantness and all her paths are peace.

Honor the Lord with thy substance and with the first-fruits of all thine increase; so shall thy barns be filled with plenty.

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish thou the work of our hands. Moses.

The hand of the diligent maketh rich. The hand of the diligent shall bear rule.

Be not slothful in business. A man diligent in his business shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

Anger resteth in the bosom of fools. Make no friendship with an angry man, lest thou learn his ways: Let not the sun go down upon thy wrath. Be patient; and not a brawler or striker.

SPIRITUAL POWER. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

HOW SOME MEN ACHIEVED GREATNESS

Abraham believed God and was promptly obedient to His divine call. "The Lord made Abraham rich" and the "Father of the Faithful."

"The Lord was with Joseph," the innocent slave in prison. He led him from the prison to a throne and made him a successful ruler in Egypt.

Daniel the youthful, God-fearing captive at Babylon, "sought the Lord by prayer, supplication and fasting." "The Lord prospered him," gave him favor with princes and made him the greatest statesman of his age.

Job was a "perfect and upright man, one that feared God." Satan said of him, "Doth Job fear God for nought?" Satan then deprived him of his family, property and health. Job still maintained his integrity, saying, "The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away." The Lord then gave Job twice as much as he had before; so that the latter end of Job was more blessed than his beginning.

When the Lord said to Moses, "Come now, I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people out of Egypt;" he hesitated, saying, "Who am I?" "They will not believe me;" and "I am not eloquent." But when he obeyed the call and went, the Lord went with him, the people believed, the army of Pharaoh was overthrown; and Moses became the first emancipator, a great leader of men and the greatest lawgiver in the history of the world.

OAK HILL BE'S

Be Honorable. Never do that which will cause you afterwards to feel ashamed.

Be Honest. Never deceive or take that which belongs to another.

Be True. Stand firmly for the truth and be faithful, though you stand or work alone.

Be Pure. Shun the impure and abhor whatever will corrupt good morals.

Be Polite. Help the weak and never by word or act offend another.

Be Prompt. If you have done badly, hasten with your apology before you are called to account.

Be Thoughtful. Learn how to exercise that forethought that anticipates every future need at the beginning of an undertaking.

Self Control. Self control means self discipline. Self discipline means that I must be willing to:

Be, what I know I ought to be;

Say, what I know I ought to say;

Do, what I know I ought to do;

Go, where I know I ought to go;

Do, with my might what my hands find to do; and be firmly decided, not to do anything I know I ought not to do. It is the ability to control one's thoughts and energies by rule, so as to act prudently, and never impulsively or impatiently.

All make mistakes, some more than others. "To err is human." He succeeds best who makes the fewest mistakes; and most quickly corrects them, when discovered.

"I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true.

"I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live up to what light I have.

"I must stand with anybody who stands right; stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he goes wrong." Lincoln.

Freedom. True freedom is the freedom to do right, and for it good men contend. The liberty to do what one may wish to do, is not freedom, for that may be wrong.

Tact. Tact is the ability to please rather than offend, by saying or doing the right thing in a pleasant way at the right time, ignoring petty slights and insults and leading disagreeable people to become your friends.

Blessed is the teacher who expects much from his pupils, he is thereby likely to receive it; that has common sense in framing regulations, and backbone to enforce them; whose vocabulary contains more "do's" than "don'ts." Lucy A. Baker.

The little birds, like the busy bees, are cheery and valuable helpers. Encourage their presence and aid, by planting trees for their songs and building little houses for their young.

The domestic animals are our servants and profit-makers, or mortgage lifters. Always treat them kindly. Never permit anyone to strike, or stone them. Even the pig of your neighbor, when he becomes a mischievous intruder in your field, if you give him a friendly chase, will conduct you to a hole in the fence that ought to be closed.

"Kind words can never die, Cherished and blest; God knows how deep they lie, Stored in each breast."

Character. Character is a word derived from another one that means to impress or engrave. It marks our individuality. It is the result of the principles and habits, that have impressed themselves on our nature and the abilities that have been developed. Solomon calls it a good name, which suggests reputation. It is tested and strengthened by overcoming difficulties. A good character is within the reach of all while greatness is possible only to a few.

"When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; When health is lost, something is lost; When character is lost, all is lost."

Character. "Character is not what we think, feel or know; but what we are. Character is being; and it is infinitely nobler to be than to have, or know, or do. The rank, value and dignity of character cannot be overestimated. The confidence of the whole world on which trade, empires, homes and real happiness are built is confidence in character. Character is the great end; moral and spiritual education is the greatest means to attain that end."—Martin.

Character is personal power, the poor boy's best capital and the success, that makes him greater than his occupation. The weak wait for opportunities, but the strong seize them and make even common occasions great.

The world honors success. God honors faithfulness. The world commends worldly achievements, but God rewards character.

Every student should endeavor to build up the community in which he lives commercially, socially and religiously.

Beware of strangers that come to you full of smooth talk and clad in fine clothing. The tree, book, land and other agents sometimes prove helpful. But you will be happier and more prosperous, if you will send for a catalog and get just what you need, and at cost. You will thereby avoid the expensiveness and uncertainty of doing business through a nicely dressed, but irresponsible stranger.

The upright exert a blessed influence long after their departure from the earth. They are remembered in the home, the social circle and the church.

"That man exists, but never lives, Who much receives but nothing gives; But he who marks his busy way, By generous acts from day to day, Treads the same path his Savior trod, The path to glory and to God."

Education. Everything from a pin to an engine has its cost and someone must pay the price.

In education the material is human and the product is a new and living worker for the world's work. The material and moral progress of the world has been principally due to the work of educated men and women.

Education has its cost, but the profit of a good christian education is vastly greater than its cost. It pays to educate young people who are christians, that they may become leaders in thought and action.

"A good education enables one to manifest goodness and not badness. Drawing out all the good qualities of head and heart, it magnifies them and suppresses the bad ones. If this seems hard, it should be remembered that all things of value are obtained only by effort."

"For every evil under the sun There's a remedy, or there's none, If there is one, try and find it; If there is none, never mind it."

"A clear and legible handwriting is one of the best means of giving a stranger an impression of force of character, self-control and capacity for skilled work. It wins favor by making the reading of it easy and a source of pleasure. It is one of the crowning attainments of a well cultured life."—Spencer.

"Success follows those who see and know how to take advantage of their opportunity."

The Lord loves to use "the weak things" and "things that are despised." He loves to put the treasure of His grace into the feeble, that the world may be compelled to ask, "whence hath this man power?" Rev. J. H. Jowett.

Self education is accomplished by reading good books, with the aid of a dictionary. Get a Bible dictionary for the Bible, and a Webster or Academic dictionary for other books.

Do all things by rule. A good rule tells the right way to do things. If you do not know the rule ask for it. Never violate a known rule. It never pays to do so; the confidence of someone is sure to be forfeited.

Keep Busy. Keep busy and you will keep happy. Read good books when you cannot work. If you call on a friend and he is busy, do not become an idler or make him one. Either help him or read his best books.

Idleness. Idleness is a sin against God. "Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work." "In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread." "If any man will not work, neither let him eat." It is also a sin against our nature; causing a slow movement, which is a serious disappointment; tardiness, which is like a dead fly in precious ointment; and, that loathsome disease, laziness. Like drunkenness it is an inexcusable shame, that dooms one to poverty and clothes him with rags. Shun idleness as you do the sting of a hornet, or the bite of a rattler.

"We are not here to play, to dream, to drift, We have our work to do, and loads to lift. Shun not the struggle; face it. 'Tis God's gift." "They are slaves who fear to speak, For the fallen and the weak. They are slaves who will not choose Hatred, scoffing and abuse, Rather than in silence shrink From the truth they needs must think; They are slaves, who dare not be In the right with two or three." Lowell.

Do your best. Put your best efforts in your work, no matter how simple or difficult the task.

"I am passing through this world but once. I will therefore do my best every day, and do all the good to all the people I can."

"I do the very best I know how—the very best I can; and I mean to keep doing so until the end. If the end brings me out all right, what is said against me won't amount to anything. If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference." Abraham Lincoln.

Efficiency. Efficiency is the ability to perform work in the shortest and quickest way, by omitting every useless movement.

Faith. Faith rests on facts and realities. It is the basis of home and business. "It swings the rainbow across the dark clouds, makes heroes in life's battles, extracts the poison from Satan's arrows and links us to God and the good in heaven."

Let us have faith that right makes might, and in that faith let us to the end dare to do our duty, as we understand it. With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish, the work we are in. Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg.

Gladness. Gladness is sown for the upright. The joy of the Lord is your strength. Manifest your joy and gladness by wearing the smile of contentment and love. It includes a sparkle in the eye, a little ripple on the cheek and the kind word that "never dies."

"Smile and the world smiles with you, Laugh and the world will roar, Growl and the world will leave you, And never come back any more. All of us could not be handsome, Nor all of us wear good clothes, But a smile is not expensive, And covers a world of woes."

Energy. Energy is power in action. Stagnant water lacks power, but water in action produces steam, the power that moves the world's machinery and traffic. Knowledge in action means power on the farm, in the home and in the church.

"God bless the man who sows the wheat, Produces milk and fruit and meat; His purse be heavy, his heart be light, His corn and cattle all go right, God bless the seed his hand lets fall, The farmer produces the food for all."

Knowledge. Knowledge is power, when it is wisely assorted, assimilated and immediately employed; as is the water of a river, when it is used to produce electric power. The knowledge that leads to sovereign power, includes self-knowledge, self-respect and self-control. The man who does well whatsoever he undertakes, cannot be kept down, except by his own indiscretions.

A good character is essential to the soul winner. It is a false notion that one must meet the world on its own level—drink to win a drinker, smoke to win a smoker, and play the world's games in order to win it to Christ. Richard Hobbs.

Thrift. Thrift consists in increasing the value of our possessions every year, by making good investments of our time and money, and by earning more than is spent for living expenses. "A penny saved is two pence earned."

Our Father in heaven sends no man into this world without a work, and a capacity to perform that work.

"Live for those that love you, For those you know are true; For the cause that lacks assistance, For the wrong that needs resistance; For the future in the distance: And the good that you can do."

"A fool with a gun or an axe can destroy in five minutes, what it took nature years to perfect and perpetuate."

A little house well filled, A little field well tilled, A good wife well willed, are great riches.

Leaders. Be a leader. A leader does his thinking before hand and endeavors to provide for every need. He must be well informed and know how to arouse interest and stimulate activity. He must discover and adopt only the best methods. The rewards of leadership are a continually increasing power to lead others and the ability to conduct your own life most usefully and happily.

"A good farmer's tools are under shelter; But Pete Tumbledown's lie helter-skelter; And when he wants his tools again He finds them rusty from the rain."

"Divide and conquer," was Joshua's rule of strategy in the conquest of Canaan. "Separate for the march, unite for the attack," was a maxim of Napoleon. Both are good rules for the people in all our churches, in their constant conflict with vice and iniquity.

The noblest man does not always uphold his rights, but waives them for his own good and the good of others. A keen sense of honor, that condemns dishonorable conduct, is one of the finest results of a good education. Education is expected to do for the mind, what sculpture does to a block of marble.

"A merry farmer's girl am I, My songs are gay and blithe; For in my humble country home I lead a free, glad life. Through fertile fields and gardens mine, I love at will to roam, And as I wander gayly sing, This is my own, free home, My own free home."

Genius. There is no genius like a love for hard work. Hard work develops strength, increases usefulness, and tends to length of days. Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work. In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread. Labor conquers all things.

"He lives the best who never does complain, Whether the passing days be filled with sun or rain. Who patiently toils on though feet be sore, Whose home stands by the road with open door; Who smiles though down he sits to feast or crust, His faith in man sincere, in God his trust." A. F. Caldwell.

Seek employment by the month or year, rather than by the day; and render unswerving loyalty to those of your own home, school and church; and those who favor you with employment.

A man's work is the expression of his worth. It should make a man of him, and give him great pleasure and delight. When a man knows his work and does it with the enthusiasm of Nehemiah, it gives him joy and enables him to exert a good influence. "That man is blest who does his best and leaves the rest."

The world owes no man a living, but every man owes the world an honest effort to make at least his own living.

SAVE THE BOY; SAVE THE GIRL!

Save them from bad habits and evil associations. Save them for useful careers, happy homes and a glorious inheritance.

"If a blessing you have known, 'Twas not given for you alone, Pass it on. Let it travel down the years, Let it dry another's tears, Till in heaven the deed appears, Pass it on."

Greatness: Goodness is the basis of that service that leads to greatness. The keynote of that service is found in the words: "The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister; and to give his life for many." The cross is the symbol of a service that is faithful, even unto death.

"So live that every thought and deed may hold within itself the seed of future good and future need."

Undertake great things for God and His glory and expect great things from Him.

"Never trouble trouble Until trouble troubles you."

Prudent, hopeful and enthusiastic are those who make the "desert to rejoice and blossom as the rose."

Habits: A habit is a cable; we spin a thread of it every day, and at last we cannot break it.

Thoughts leave an ineffaceable trace on the brain or memory.

"Sow a thought and you reap an act, Sow an act and you reap a habit, Sow a habit and you reap a character, Sow a character and you reap a destiny."

A pretty oak tree is a beautiful emblem of the strength, beauty and eminent usefulness of an intelligent and noble man. Train the head, the heart and hand, and thus develop that strength and beauty of character, that fits one for the most eminent usefulness.

A single aim means undivided attention and interest. Concentrate your faculties on the particular work of each day, that later you may be able to give your undivided attention to your chosen employment. All great achievements have been won by those who have had a single aim. "Consider the postage stamp, my son; its usefulness consists in sticking to one thing, until it gets there."—Josh Billings.

Concentrate your energies and be master of your work. The world crowns him who knows one thing and does it better than others.

I will. Always say, "I will" or "I'll try," when work or a duty is proposed, that can and ought to be done. Never say, "I can't" or "I won't", except to resist a temptation to do wrong. While the "I can'ts" fail in everything, and the "I won'ts" oppose everything, the "I will's" do the world's work.

God has a plan for every life. He made you for use and for His own use. He gives power to those whom He uses. Let Him use you. Your happiness depends on the consciousness you are fulfilling your divinely appointed mission; and your success, on your will being in harmony with your work.

Only the tuned violin can make music; and only the life in harmony with God can "please him" or "win souls" to Him. Spiritual power is necessary for spiritual work.

Investments. Invest only where your investment will be under your own personal supervision, or that of a known and trusted friend. Invest only in those kinds of properties, the successful and profitable management of which, you best understand.

Investments in young stock and good real estate increase in value; but investments in rolling stock always decrease in value. Buy low from those who have to sell, and sell to those who want to buy.

Seek counsel only of those who are achieving success, and never trust a stranger.

Home. A home is one of the best investments for every one of moderate means. It provides a shelter for the individual and for the family, no matter what may happen. A regular income must be assured in order to retain a place to sleep in a rented house. The early desire to own a home makes steady employment a source of pleasure.

It is not what we eat, but what we digest, that makes us strong.

It is not what we read, but what we remember, that makes us learned.

It is not what we earn, but what we save, that makes us rich.

Home. A christian home is a precious heritage. It is the divinely appointed educator of mankind. Its seclusion, shelter and culture are invaluable. There the mother whose hand rocks the cradle, moves the world, teaching the lessons of obedience, self-control, faith and trust. Use only a mellow and sweet tone of voice in the home. A kind and gentle voice is a pearl of great price that, like the cheery song of the lark, increases the joy and happiness of the home with passing years.

"The farmer's trade is one of worth, He is partner with the earth and sky; He is partner with the sun and rain, And no man loses by his gain. And men may rise and men may fall; The farmer, he must feed them all."

"Man's chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever."

Knowledge. "Other things may be seized by might or purchased with money; but knowledge is to be gained only by study."—Johnson.

"He that studies only men, will get the body of knowledge, without the soul; and he that studies only books, the soul without the body. He that to what he sees adds observation, and to what he reads, reflection, is in the right road to knowledge, provided that in scrutinizing the hearts of others he neglects not his own."—Cotton.

Co-operation. "All real progress of the individual, or of society, comes through the joining of hands and working together in a spirit of helpfulness for the common good."

A brother in need is a brother indeed.

"Whoso hath this world's goods and seeth his brother in need and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?"

Never go security for any one who cannot give you a mortgage or whose word is not as good as his bond. "He that is surety for a stranger, shall smart for it; and he that hateth suretyship is sure."

Eloquence. Eloquence is the expression of a moral conviction. It is overpowering when the moral conviction is tremendously felt. This was the secret of the eloquence of Lincoln, Beecher and Garrison, when they spoke of the wrong of slavery; and of John B. Gough, Neal Dow and Frances Willard, when they plead for an uprising against the curse of strong drink.

Marriage. Marriage is a divine ordinance, instituted by our Heavenly Father in the time of man's innocency. It is not a sacrament, but a social institution, intended to promote the comfort and happiness of mankind, through the establishment of the family relationship, and a responsible home, where the children may be trained for the service of God and the work of their generation. The gospel hallows all the relations of life and sanctions the innocent enjoyment of all the good gifts of God. It purifies the hearts of those who walk in the way of obedience and induces the peace that passeth understanding.

"Life is real, life is earnest And the grave is not its goal, Dust thou art to dust returnest, Was not written of the soul. Let us then be up and doing, With a heart for any fate; Still achieving still pursuing, Learn to labor and to wait."—Longfellow.

Robbers. Idleness, tardiness and "late nights," are three bold bad robbers, that must be strenuously resisted and overcome. Be watchful or they may rob you of the best that is in you.

Spare Moments. It is better to be a busy silent reader in the home or school and learn something useful, than to be an idle, noisy talker, disturbing others and causing the loss or forfeiture of valuable privileges.

Have a book for spare moments in the home. Read only good books, the Bible and catechism first; then those on history, biography, travel, and progress in the arts and sciences, including one on your own occupation. Do not read worthless story books. They will rob you of your time, and the taste for the Bible and other good books. Time wasted in idleness or reading worthless books means bad companions, bad habits, and the loss of opportunity, energy and vitality. Learn to abhor idleness as nature does a vacuum.

Say No. Have the courage to say "no" to every solicitation to violate rule or known duty. "The companion of fools shall be destroyed." "Though hand join in hand the guilty shall not go unpunished." "This is Fabricius, the man whom it is more difficult to turn from his integrity, than the sun from his course."—Pyrrhus.

Writing. Train the hand and inform the mind so you can write the English language,

"Plain to the eye and gracefully combined."

"The pen engraves for every art and indites for every press. It is the preservative of language, the business man's security, the poor boy's patron and the ready servant of mind."—Spencer.

Train: The hand to be graceful, steady, strong; The Eye to be alert and observing; The Memory to be accurate and retentive; The Heart to be tender, true and sympathetic.

Promptness. Promptness takes the drudgery out of an occupation. The decision of a moment often determines the destiny of years. Every moment lost affords an opportunity for misfortune. Punctuality is the soul of business, the mother of confidence and credit. Only those, who keep their time, can be trusted to keep their word. Tardiness is a disappointment and an interruption; a kind of falsehood and theft of time.

Vices. The four great vices of this age are Sabbath-breaking, gambling, intemperance and licentiousness. These must be fought all the time, like the great plagues that attack the body, tuberculosis, leprosy and small pox. The gospel will save any one from all of them; and some day it will sweep them from the earth, as they are now kept from heaven.

"A Sabbath well spent Brings a week of content, And strength for the toils of the morrow; But a Sabbath profaned, Whatso'er may be gained, Is a certain forerunner of sorrow."

To be a leader is a praiseworthy ambition. A leader is one who wins the confidence of the people so that they are willing to follow. Our Lord Jesus gave the secret of leadership, when he said: "Whosoever would be first among you, shall be servant of all;" and again, "The Son of Man came not be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."

America. America is a land of opportunity, where the poor boy secures a home and later may participate in the government. Most of those, who are managing the world's work to day, were poor boys yesterday. If you are in the school of adversity today, do not be discouraged, "thank God and take courage;" for you are merely on the same level with those, who by their energy and thrift, are making sure of success tomorrow. When Lord Beaconsfield became a member of Parliament, and the other members did not care to listen to his youthful speeches, he said to himself, "I am not a slave nor a captive; and by energy I can overcome great obstacles. The time will come when you will hear me."

Books. "The first time I read an excellent book," said Goldsmith, "it is to me as if I had gained a new friend." "Books are the pillars of progress, the inspiration of mankind. They exert a wonderful influence and a mighty power, though silent," says John Knox in Ready Money, "in lifting up humanity and making progress possible." They enable the reader to converge and associate with the noblest and best minds. In them we have the thoughts and deeds, the experience and inspiration of all the great ones of earth.



Good books, that breathe the best thoughts and experiences of others, are trusted friends, that bring instruction, entertainment and contentment to the home. As companions and counselors they supply a real want, that makes the home more than merely a place for food and raiment. "Writing makes an exact man, talking makes a ready man, but reading makes him a full man,"—that is a man of intelligence. A man is known by the books he reads and the company he keeps. Let some of the world's best books find an inviting and permanent place in your home.

Books and voices make a glorious combination. No one can tell what good books and good voices may not do. The Word of God and the gospel of our Lord Jesus, have come to us in the form of a book, and we call it by way of pre-eminence, "The Bible," or Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. Our attention has been directed to them by the living voice. Let your tongues proclaim the glad message of divine truth and redeeming love. The Holy Spirit will record the results in the Lamb's Book of Life.

Read and preserve the books.

WIT AND HUMOR

"Laugh, and grow fat."

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine."

Aunt Dinah: "How long hab you dis set of dishes?"

Mother Hubbard: "Let me see; I've had 'em—four girls and a half."

Mike: "Do ye believe in the recall of judges, Pat?"

Pat: "That I do not. The last time I was up before his honor he sez: 'I recall that face.—Sixty days.' I'm agin the recall of judges." Life.

Bishop: "Well, Mr. Jones, how do you like your preacher?"

Deacon Jones: "He's de best I eber seed, to take de Bible apart; but he dun' no how to put it to gedder agen."

A Swede, that had not yet had time to learn our language was accused of throwing a stone through a plate glass window. When the lawyers failed to enable him to describe it's size the judge asked:

"Was it as big as my fist?"

"It ben bigger," the Swede replied.

"Was it as big as my two fists?"

"It ben bigger."

"Was it as big as my head?"

"It ben about as long, but not so thick," the Swede replied, amid the laughter of the court.

* * * * *

The German's trouble with the English language.

Visitor: "Those are two fine dogs you have."

Cobbler: "Yes und de funny part of it iss, dat de biggest dog is de leettlest one."

Cobbler's Wife: "You must mine husband egscuse; he shpeaks not very good English. He means de oldest dog is de youngest one."



XXXI

RULES, MOTTOES AND COURSE OF STUDY

WALL MOTTOES

I. OAK HILL MOTTO

Time is precious Time is money— Do not stand idle, waiting, Do not keep others waiting, Do something useful. Be a busy, silent worker, Shun the idle, noisy shirker.

II. RULE OF ORDER

Order is the first law of Heaven, and it is the first rule in every well regulated home, school and church.

IT REQUIRES THAT EVERYONE:

BE in the right place at the right time, DO the right thing in the right way, DO the same things the same way, KEEP everything in the right place; and COMPLETE whatever has been undertaken.

ENDEAVOR BENEDICTION

"The Lord bless thee and keep thee:

"The Lord make his face shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee:

"The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

"And unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."

III. ESSENTIALS TO SUCCESS

An unwavering aim, Unswerving integrity, Intelligent industry, Neverfailing promptness, Indomitable perseverance, Unbounded enthusiasm, Willing and strict economy, In the employment of time, Talents, money and expenses.

IV. BUSY DAY

THIS is our BUSY DAY. Do not intrude here to day. Come some other day. LOAFERS Are worse than useless. Their presence here is STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.

KEY WORDS: The Key words that open or close doors of opportunity, and contrast the characteristics of the good and bad student, are as follows:

GOOD STUDENT

POET: Politeness, Obedience, Economy and Earnestness, Thoughtfulness.

BAD PUPIL

DIED: Disorderly conduct, Idleness, Extravagance, Deceit.

GOOD WORKMAN

STEAM: Steam is a good key word, to enable one to remember how the good workman works efficiently and profitably. He works:

Steadily, Thoughtfully, Enthusiastically, Alone, Methodically.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

I. STUDENTS

The Superintendent and Teachers wish all the students to be gladdened and strengthened by the joy of successful achievement. To effect this each student must learn to do promptly and thoroughly everything he knows he ought to do, and refrain absolutely from doing anything he knows he ought not to do. "The joy of the Lord is your strength."

Order. Good order must be maintained in all the buildings and premises. It requires that there be a place for everything and everything be kept in its place; that each student know his place and be in it at the right nick of time.

Silence. All are expected to be silent, thoughtful, earnest workers so as to make perfect recitations. The discipline of absolute silence is necessary to the attainment of complete self control, and the achievement of the best results, both as a student and workman. Silence must be observed in the Academy at all times, and only a low tone of voice is appropriate in the other buildings at any time.

Obedience. All are expected to yield a prompt and cheerful obedience to all the Rules and Regulations, and never indulge in any disputes with your teachers.

Students render themselves liable to suspension or expulsion by persistent disobedience, quarreling, disorderly conduct, profane or unchaste language, truancy, or general disregard for the rules of the school.

No student known to be affected with a contagious disease, or coming from a family where such diseases exist, shall be received or continued in the school.

Pupils must procure drinks and make all other necessary preparation for school at playtime, and keep their places after the bell rings.

Pupils shall not ask questions, walk across or leave the room while classes are reciting, nor at any other time without permission.

Pupils must observe the common forms of politeness and at all times treat their teachers and one another with courtesy and respect.

No pupil shall be permitted to leave or be absent from the school during school hours, except in case of illness without an excuse from the superintendent or parent.

Rooms. The rooms occupied by the students are merely sleeping apartments; and for this purpose the pure cold air in them is conducive to the enjoyment of the most rugged health. They must not be used for study or amusement, especially at night; and drafts of air from the windows must be avoided.

Each student on rising, when no other provision is made is expected to air the bed and room, to empty the slop pail and put it on its shelf in the sun, to make the bed and sweep the room; and after breakfast to report for duty, the boys at the office, and the girls to the matron. They will report in the same way at 2:30 p.m., and the children at 4:00 p.m.

All are expected to refrain from returning to the sleeping rooms during the day, from entering the rooms of others in the evening and from receiving visitors without permission. The doors must be kept closed.

Illness. The first duty of everyone who becomes ill is to report that fact to the superintendent, or matron. He expects everyone to perform every duty assigned in a faithful and responsible manner, until notice of illness has been received.

All are required, even when feeling indisposed and lacking an appetite, to come to the table for warm drinks at the regular meal time.

All requests for meals to be brought to the rooms, shall be sent to the matron or superintendent at or before meal time.

Sitting Rooms. The small boys, when needing the comfort of a warm room, must occupy their own sitting room, and the larger boys and girls the rooms provided for them, respectively; each endeavoring to make a good use of their spare moments, while occupying these places, and observe the rule requiring quiet and good order in the buildings.

Chapel Bell. The chapel bell shall be rung at 7:45 and 7:55 a.m.; at 12:45 and 12:55 p.m.; at 2:40 p.m. and at 6:45 and 6:55 p.m. Every student is expected to be in his place and be ready for work on his studies, before the tap bell is heard at 8:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Farm Bell. The signal for the janitors or fire makers shall be rung at 5:40 a.m., the call to rise, at 6:00 a.m.; for dinner at 11:40 a.m.; supper at 5:40 p.m.; retiring at 8:20 and 8:30 p.m., when all lights in the rooms must be put out.

The dining room bell will ring for breakfast, at 6:20 a.m.; dinner, at 11:55 a.m.; supper, at 6:00 p.m.

All matters for the mail must be delivered at the office before 1:00 p.m.

II. MEETINGS AND CHORES

Genius. All are encouraged to learn how to work hard and constantly, and to use every spare moment for some good purpose. There is no genius like that for hard work. Enthusiastic interest in one's work is essential to success. Idleness is a sin, a waste of life, and cannot be endured at Oak Hill, which is intended to be a hive of industry.

Carefulness. All must learn to use rightly and carefully the books, slates, tools, and furniture entrusted to them. All injuries to books, furniture or buildings must be paid for by those guilty of injuring them.

Services. All, unless specially excused, are required to attend all the religious services on the Sabbath, including the Bible Memory class. The Endeavor meeting is the student's special training service; all are expected to participate in it, by at least reading or repeating a verse of Scripture; and in the Bible Memory class by committing an average of one verse a day. All are encouraged to covet the best gifts, especially the power of complete self-control, and the ability to say things forcibly, and do things thoroughly.

Speakers. Those speak with authority, who, instead of telling what they think, or making an apology, tell what the Bible, the law of the Lord, says. All should endeavor to instruct, animate and encourage; none should ever indulge in fault-finding, or allude to any personal grievance.

Leaders. Leaders of meetings are expected to be fully prepared before hand, to stand when they speak; to speak sufficiently loud and distinct as to be easily heard by the most distant listener; to repeat the numbers of the hymns; to request the audience to stand during prayer; to afford an opportunity for volunteer prayers or remarks; and to close the meeting as soon as the interest in it has ended.

Immorality. No one guilty of persistent immoral conduct, will either be admitted, or be permitted to remain at the academy.

Chores. The domestic work in all the buildings, the care of the stock, and the preparation of the fuel, are apportioned among the students, and all are required to do their part.

Janitors. The janitors must see that the kindling has been provided in the evening; rise promptly at the call of the janitor's signal; and have the fires in the sitting rooms and chapel burning in good shape, before the ringing of the rising bell. These fires are to be maintained during the day by those specially appointed to perform that duty. All are expected, to exercise good judgment and practice economy in the use of both the kindling and wood. The ashes from all the stoves must be carried to the heap every morning. Only old vessels may be used for this purpose and these, when emptied, must be returned to their proper places.

Care of Stock. Those assigned the care of the stock are required to be prompt and faithful in caring for it; in the morning, at noon and evening day by day, according to instructions, without having to be prompted. This work must not be left undone or entrusted to others, without first notifying the superintendent.

Other Chores. This rule, requiring faithfulness, applies also to those, who have been assigned the chore work about the buildings, kindling fires, sweeping halls, cleaning lamps, carrying water and wood.

Hall Lamps. The hall lamps, water pails and other fixtures, that are intended to serve all, must never be removed from their places, to render service to an individual.

III. WORK AND THINGS FORBIDDEN

Work Period. All over 13 years of age are expected to render three full hours of faithful and efficient work each day, and on Saturday until 2:30 p.m. Time lost by tardiness, or unnecessary absence during the working period, must be made up before the end of the term.

Object. The aim of your teachers, during these work-periods, is to give you a practical knowledge of the simple arts of life; that you may be intelligent, capable and efficient workmen; be enabled to make your own homes more comfortable, and create a demand for your services.

Tool Rules. Each workman, at the close of the work period, must return all tools used to their proper place. If they have been transferred, then the last one using them must return them. None are permitted to use any tools, or touch any musical instrument, until they have been taught the rules relating to them; and have been shown how to use them, and do the work in a skillful and workmanlike manner. Tools must never be taken to any of the rooms to do any repair work.

Non-interference. When students are working under the direction of anyone, they must not be interfered with by others, nor leave the work assigned them, without the knowledge and approval of the one, under whose direction they are working at the time.

Irregularity. Irregularity greatly interferes with a student's progress and the work of his class and teacher. Leave of absence during the term cannot therefore be granted, except for the most urgent reasons. Those, that from any cause, miss one or more lessons, should endeavor to master them when they return.

Caution. All are kindly advised never to be guilty of any word or act, that will be likely to cause you to forfeit the esteem and confidence of the superintendent, or your teachers. A good student endeavors to aid and cheer, but never disobeys or annoys a teacher.

Things Forbidden. Never permit yourself to indulge in any dispute with your teacher in the school room, shop or field.

Don't tease, ridicule or despise others; be polite and courteous to each other.

Don't indulge in the use of profane or obscene language, or in any acts of deceit, falsehood or theft.

Don't use or have in your possession, any intoxicating liquors, tobacco or snuff in any form; gamblers' or obscene cards or pictures; concealed weapons; or soil the floors with spittle or wash water.

Don't indulge in singing, whistling, unnecessary talking or foolish laughter while working with others; or play ball while others are working, or choring.

All communications between boys and girls, and all association or interference on the play grounds are strictly forbidden.

At the close of all meetings, especially those in the evening, the girls are required to go directly and quietly to their hall.

Don't be extravagant or foppish in your dress, or borrow or lend, either clothing or money.

Don't send home for eatables or other unnecessary things. New clothing, especially shoes, should not be sent from home, without having the measure taken. It is better to send the money.

Every article of clothing needing to be washed must have the owner's name.

Don't tamper with the street lamp, or the plugs in the water trough; nor change the pins, tubs or tube at the well; nor roughly jerk the pump handles at the well and cisterns.

Use everything in the way and for the purpose for which it was intended, never otherwise.

Don't leave your seat in the school room, or go out of it during school hours, without permission from your teacher. Never sit on the tops of the desks.

Teachers. Each teacher is expected to keep in an orderly form on the teacher's desk, for use in conducting recitations, a complete set of the Text books used by the classes; and to prepare before hand all lessons or parts thereof that may not be familiar.

The power of suspension or exclusion is vested only in the superintendent. This power must never be exercised by any of his helpers without his previous knowledge and approval.

All matters relating to the repair of the buildings and their equipment should be promptly reported to the superintendent.

The aim of the primary teacher, at the time of recitation, should be to have all the pupils reproduce the entire lesson one or more times in concert and then individually to accomplish this with as few words as possible.

The aim of every teacher should be to make Oak Hill, to all the young people pursuing their studies here, a fountain of inspiration, a sanctuary where fellowship with the Redeemer of the world and a new discovery of the glory of God shall be among the blessings bestowed.

Book Marks. The teachers are required to furnish every new pupil one complete set of approved, folded marginal book marks; one for each text book, and for both the Sunday school and Memory lessons in the Bible. By example and precept, they are expected to require them to keep them in their proper places, and if carelessly lost, to replace them with new ones of their own making. Among the objects to be attained by the enforcement of this rule are the habit of carefulness in little things, to save the books from other injurious methods of marking and to save the time of the teacher, class and pupil.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS

The rooms occupied by the students must be carefully inspected by the matrons or their special monitors every time the students leave them for the school or chapel; to see that the buildings have not been endangered by any acts of carelessness or thoughtlessness.

The ladders must be kept where they may be easily and quickly obtained.

On the first Friday of each term the students shall be organized into a Fire Department, the superintendent serving as chief and the matrons and teachers as his special aids. The fire-fighters shall include the pumpers and a bucket brigade; the life and property savers shall include the ladder squad; and the strenuous work of all shall continue until the building or the last possible piece of property has been saved.

The fire drills shall consist of quick orderly marches, at an unexpected signal, from all the buildings occupied, and the report of each squad for duty to their respective foremen.

TO PARENTS

These suggestions to parents or guardians appear on the monthly report cards.

This report is sent you in the hope it will give you that information you naturally desire to receive in regard to the work and standing of the pupils you have sent to the academy.

In your communications to your children encourage them to be prompt and punctual in meeting every engagement, to remember the Sabbath day, to improve their spare moments by reading the Bible or some good book, to do their best during the hours of study and work each day, and to refrain from association with the idle or worthless.

(1) SALUTE TO THE FLAG

(2) We give our heads (3) and our hearts (4) to our Country. (5) One country, one language (6) one flag.

1. All rise and extend right arm toward the flag. 2 Touch forehead with tips of the fingers. 3. Right palm over the heart. 4. Both hands extended upward. 5. Lean forward, hands at sides. 6. With emphasis, right hand pointing to the flag. Sing America.

"The red is for love that will dare and do The blue is the sign of the brave and true. The white with all evil and wrong shall cope, And the silver stars are the stars of hope."

THE STUDENTS GOODBYE

Good bye, Oak Hill; good bye; We're off to the fields and the open sky; But we shall return in the fall, you know, As glad to return as we are now to go. Good bye, Oak Hill; Good bye,

THE COURSE OF STUDY

The following is the course of study pursued at the academy, the high school course being added June 1, 1912.

I. PRIMARY DEPARTMENT

First Grade: First Reader, Reading Chart, Primer, Printing, Numbers and Tables. Books of Bible, Memory Work.

Second Grade: Second Reader, Doubs Speller, Printing, Writing, Tables, Primary Arithmetic. Also the Bible, Shorter Catechism and Vocal Music in this and the subsequent grades.

II. INTERMEDIATE DEPARTMENT

Third Grade: Third Reader, Doubs Speller, (Smith's) Primary Arithmetic, Principles of Penmanship, (Spencer or Eaton), Introductory Language Work, Primary Geography.

Fourth Grade: Fourth Reader, Doubs Speller, Primary Arithmetic, Writing, (Thompson's) Principles of Drawing, Primary Geography, (Krohn's) First Book in Physiology.

Leslie's Music Chart and Ideal Class Book; and Thwing's Voice Culture, are used weekly for instruction in the principles, and general drills in gesture, note reading and voice culture.

III. GRAMMAR DEPARTMENT

Fifth Grade: Fifth Reader, U. S. History, Doubs Speller, Primary Arithmetic, Reed & Kellogg's Graded Lessons in English, or Burt's Grammar, Physiology, Writing, Nature Study Chart.

Sixth Grade: Fifth Reader, History of United States or Oklahoma, Doubs Speller, (Smith's) Practical Arithmetic, Writing, Geography, Drawing, Burt's Grammar or Reed & Kellogg's Graded Lessons in English, Agriculture.

Seventh Grade: The Bible, Literary Readings, Doubs Speller, Arithmetic, Grammar, Agriculture, Civics, Writing, Geography Completed.

Eighth Grade: The Bible or Literary Readings, Doubs Speller, Grammar, Composition, (Carson's Handbook), Arithmetic, (Evans & Bunn's) Civics, Constitution of Oklahoma and United States, Writing, Bookkeeping (Stephenson's), Thompson's Drawing for Rural Schools.

Wentworth's Mental Arithmetic is commended for use in the Sixth to Eighth grades.

Frequent reviews of the rules and definitions are essential to the attainment of a thorough knowledge of any textbook and the most rapid advancement in it.

Didactic Electives: Page's Theory and Practice in Teaching; Holbrook on the Teacher's Methods; Wickersham on School Government; Trumbull, the Teacher Teaching; or similar works.

This outline of grades and studies is intended to be suggestive and helpful to the teachers in the Academy in grading and promoting the pupils. The pupils should be arranged in classes according to their several abilities, rather than according to this outline in an arbitrary manner, in order that the classes at the time of recitation may be as large as possible rather than small. Their grade is ascertained by the majority of their studies, and their standing or rank by their percentage in each.

This course has been arranged in harmony with the outline course prepared in 1908 for the public and city schools of Oklahoma, and is intended to prepare pupils for entering the high school course consisting of the Ninth to Twelfth grades, or a normal course consisting of Didactics, Methods in Teaching and School Government.

A suitable certificate is issued to all pupils that complete, in a creditable manner, all the studies in this preparatory course ending with the Eighth grade.

The industrial work and training required of all the boarding pupils is intended to include a practical knowledge of agriculture, animal husbandry, apiculture, poultry raising, carpentry, cobbling, concrete, gardening, domestic science, sewing and laundry work, as the opportunity is afforded and the pupils discover fitness for these arts.

IV. HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

Ninth Grade: Grammar, Arithmetic, Composition, Civics, Elementary Algebra, Bookkeeping.

Tenth Grade: Algebra, Hill's Etymology, Physical Geography, General History, Rhetoric.

Eleventh Grade: Algebra, Rhetoric, Ancient History, American Literature (Abernathy), Composition, Botany, Plane Geometry.

Twelfth Grade: Solid Geometry, (Hessler & Smith's) Chemistry, Newcomber's English Literature, Political Economy.

Electives: Astronomy, Geology, Zoology, Trigonometry; Surveying, Stenography, Typewriting, Telegraphy.

In January 1908, when P. K. Faison, first superintendent of the public schools of McCurtain county, made his first visit to Oak Hill, he stated that Wheelock and Oak Hill Academies were the only graded schools in McCurtain county at that time.

TEACHING IN SUNDAY SCHOOL

As a help to young Sunday school teachers in the preparation of the lesson and its management before the class Miss Saxe's method of five points of analysis and five points of application are given.

ANALYSIS

1. What is the principal subject? 2. What the leading lessons? 3. Which the best verse? 4. Who are the principal persons? 5. What teaching about Christ?

APPLICATION

1. What example to follow? 2. What to avoid? 3. What duty to perform? 4. What promise to proclaim? 5. What prayer to echo?



XXXII

SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS

"Gather up the Fragments that nothing be lost."—Jesus.

SAVINGS OR WAGES

It is a matter of great importance to every one to learn early in life the difference between monthly or yearly savings and wages; and also the difference between personal expenses and profitable investments.

When a boy works on the railroad and has to supply all his daily wants, he knows what his wages are and answers the question quickly, stating what he receives by the day when he makes a full day's work. But when he is asked, "What are your monthly savings?" he is bothered and frankly confesses he cannot tell. Before the end of the second month the wages of his first month have slowly passed through his hands for personal expenses and little or nothing has been saved for profitable investment.

When a boy works for a farmer, who receives him into his home, providing for him a furnished room, fuel, light, boarding and washing, he does not seem to receive more than half what the other boy receives who works for the railroad. When he is asked the same question, "What are your monthly wages and what your monthly savings?" he makes reply by stating the balance in the farmer's hand as his savings, and that is correct; but he cannot tell what his wages are, by way of comparison with the other boy. The first boy at the end of the month has received wages the other boy his savings, save for his clothing. The latter at the end of the year has ordinarily saved more than the former, though all the time he may have imagined he was not receiving sufficient wages, merely because the monthly allowance of the farmer is commonly called "wages," instead of by the right name, "monthly savings."

That which the farmer does for his boy, in providing him a home and helping him to save his earnings, this Industrial Academy is now doing for every boy, that is received into the membership of the Oak Hill Family and makes his home there during the summer season.

At the Academy he not only finds steady employment, but is removed from the places that call for worse than useless daily expenditures; and the monthly allowance, made by the Superintendent, represents not his wages but his monthly savings, in the deposit bank of the institution.

When a parent or boy makes the discovery, that the boys who remain at the Academy during the summer months have more funds to their credit in the Bank of the institution in the fall of the year, than many of those who receive a higher daily wage elsewhere, and that they also make the most rapid progress in their studies, they begin to see the difference between working for savings and working for wages; and how much better off is the boy, who takes the training and grows up under the stimulating and elevating influence of a good educational institution.

INVESTMENTS

A personal expense is an expenditure of money for some article that may indeed be necessary, as a pair of shoes, but it begins to depreciate in value as soon as the expenditure has been made. A profitable investment is an expenditure of money, time or talents, that is expected to increase in value or yield an income. If a lamb is purchased it will grow into a sheep and its value is doubled. If an acre of good land is purchased it is sure to increase in value according to its quality and location.

The ability to avoid personal expenses and to make profitable investments is one of the things that determines our good or ill success in life. The education of a thoughtful, earnest boy or girl is ordinarily a good and profitable investment, for their value or usefulness may be increased many times more than that of the lamb or the acre of land. If they are gratefully responsive to their training no better investment can be made, than that which has for its object the intellectual, moral and religious training of our boys and girls.

A christian educational institution is an investment for producing manhood and character, things that money will not buy. One may invest in bonds or stocks, and make or lose money; but he who aids in the production of christian men and women, trained for service, increases their usefulness and continues to live through their consecrated lives and achievements.

This institution makes its appeal to the friends who have money and who would make a profitable investment; and also to the thoughtful boys and girls, who would greatly increase their value to society, the church and the world, by obtaining a good education in their youth.



XXXIII

SUMMER NORMALS AND CHAUTAUQUA

"Apt to teach, patient."—Paul

The summer normals were established at the academy in October, 1905, and were continued during the next two years. Their object was to prepare candidates for the ministry, under the care of the Presbytery, to serve also at that time as teachers in the mission, and later in the public schools; and to afford ambitious young people the opportunity to prepare for the same work. They were conducted by the superintendent and Bertha L. Ahrens, the latter serving as instructor in the class room.

At the time they were held, they afforded the only opportunity in the south part of the Choctaw Nation, for the Freedmen to receive this training. When the McCurtain county normal was established at Idabel in 1908, they were no longer needed and were discontinued.

Those that attended the normals were as follows:

In 1905, Mary A. Donaldson of Paris, Texas.

In 1906, Mary A. Donaldson and Lilly B. Simms, Paris, Texas; Mrs. W. H. Carroll and Fidelia Murchison, Garvin, Mary E. Shoals, Grant, and James G. Shoals, Valliant.

In 1907, Zolo O. Lawson, Shawneetown, Mary E. Shoals, Grant; Delia Clark, Lehigh; Virginia Wofford and Solomon H. Buchanan, Valliant.

When the first summer normal was held at the academy in 1905, a request for some lectures or an instructor a part of the time addressed to Hon. J. Blair Shoenfelt, Indian agent, Muskogee, brought the following response from John D. Benedict, superintendent of schools.

"The colored citizens of the Choctaw Nation have not been allowed to participate in the benefit of the school fund of that Nation; hence we have not been able to establish any schools for colored children in the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations, until this year. We have now a few colored schools in both of these Nations. There has never been any demand for normals or summer institutes for colored teachers in these two Nations. They will enjoy an appropriation of $100,000 for the ensuing year, but there are no funds available for normal schools among them this year." John D. Benedict, Superintendent.

This letter indicates the lapse of provision for the general education of the Choctaw Freedmen and its renewal during the last years of the Territorial government.

LICENTIATES

Those that pursued the course of study, provided during these years, for those that were preparing specially for the ministry, were Noah Alverson, Griffin, and John Richards, Lukfata. Mr. Richards died at 28 in 1908 and Mr. Alverson was ordained in 1910.

CANDIDATES FOR THE MINISTRY

In April 1911, Riley Flournoy, Sylvester S. Bibbs, Fred McFarland and Clarence Peete expressed the desire to become ministers of the gospel and were received under the care of the Presbytery at Eagletown, as candidates. All were members of the Oak Hill church and school.

THE FIRST CHAUTAUQUA

In 1907, the last year under territorial government, arrangements were made for a patriotic celebration, in the form of a Chautauqua at the Academy. The following account of it is from the columns of the Garvin Graphic:

The Fourth of July meeting by the Freedmen at Oak Hill Academy, near Valliant, was a real patriotic Chautauqua, the first meeting of the kind ever held in this part of the Territory, and well worthy of more than a mere passing note. The preparations for the occasion, which included a comfortable seat for everyone, were fully completed before hand. The speakers' stand and the Academy buildings were tastefully decorated with our beautiful national colors, one large flag suspended between two of them, being twelve feet long.

"The exercises included three series of addresses, interspersed with soul-stirring patriotic music by the Oak Hill Glee Club, and the speakers included several of the most eloquent orators in the south part of the territory. The occasion afforded ample opportunity for the free and full discussion of those questions, relating to the administration of our public affairs, that are now engaging the attention of the people; and this fact was greatly appreciated both by the speakers and the people.

"At the forenoon session James R. Crabtree presided with commendable grace and dignity. The Declaration of Independence was read in a very entertaining and impressive manner by Miss Malinda Hall, who has been an efficient helper in the work of the Academy, since its reopening two years ago. The principal address at this session was delivered by Rev. Wiley Homer, of Grant, a large, well built man with a strong voice, who for many years has been a capable and trusted leader among the Freedmen of this section. Others that participated were Johnson Shoals, of Valliant, who has been pursuing a course of study at the Iowa State Agricultural college, Ames, Iowa, and W. J. Wehunt, one of the prominent business men of Valliant.

"At the afternoon session Isaac Johnson, a natural born orator, presided and, both in his address and happy manner of introducing the speakers, enlivened the occasion with unexpected sallies of natural mother wit and eloquence. Rev. W. H. Carroll, of Garvin, one of the instructors of the Academy, discussed in an able manner a number of questions relating to the educational and church work among the negroes; and he was followed by Prof. P. A. Parish, of Idabel, the well-known "Kansas negro," but of full-blood African descent, who seemed at his best in the discussion of current and local public questions.

"Rev. Wiley Homer presided at the evening session and the address was delivered by Rev. Chas. C. Weith, of Ardmore. This address, delivered in the cool of the evening, marked the climax of interest. In an eloquent and forceful manner he recalled the events that led to the first declaration of independence, which was for the freedom of the soul by Luther in Germany in 1517; traced the growth of this sentiment in other countries until it found its expression in the Declaration of Independence for the citizen, by our forefathers in 1776; and pressed the urgent need of Godliness on the part of every American citizen, in order to have the highest type of patriot and to insure the permanency of our civil and religious liberty. This address was a rare treat for the people of this section.

"Patriotic solos were rendered by Miss Bertha L. Ahrens, organist, Rev. W. H. Carroll, S. H. Buchanan, Mrs. J. A. Thomas and Miss Hall.

"The barbecue was prepared during the night previous by Charles Bibbs.

"Rev. R. E. Flickinger, the superintendent of the Academy, at the close of the day's sessions, received hearty congratulations for the excellent character of the arrangements for the day and was encouraged to provide for similar patriotic celebrations in the future."



XXXIV

GRACES AND PRAYERS

"In all things, give thanks, pray without ceasing."—Paul.

The following forms of grace and prayer are intended to be suggestive helps to young people, who have the desire to be ready always to lead in prayer and conduct family worship, with interest and profit to others. Bible reading and private prayer prepare for public prayer; but the latter is rendered much easier, when it is remembered, that it should consist of expressions of thanksgiving, confession, petition and intercession. Those that lead should speak loud enough to be easily heard by everyone, and with an earnestness, that suggests sincerity.

GRACE AT MEALS

BREAKFAST. We thank Thee, our Father, for sweet rest and refreshment in sleep, thy bountiful supply of our wants and the right use of our faculties. Give us wisdom this day in the discharge of duty and in the employment of our time and talents for Jesus' sake. Amen.

DINNER. We thank thee, our Father, that thou dost give to us health and strength to perform our labors and hast surrounded us with the blessings and comforts of life. Feed our souls with the bread of life and enable us to serve thee acceptably for Jesus' sake. Amen.

SUPPER. We thank thee, our Father, that thou hast enabled us to perform the labors of the day and graciously supplied our wants. Establish the work of our hands and forgive our sins for Jesus' sake. Amen.

HELPFUL FORMS OF PRAYER

"Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray thee, Lord, my soul to keep; If I should die before I wake, I pray thee, Lord, my soul to take; And this I ask for Jesus' sake."

We thank thee, O Lord, for strength of arm to win our daily bread; for enough on which to live and some to give to those that are unfed. We thank thee for shelter from the cold and storm, a place that may be shared with a friend forlorn. We thank thee for thy wonderful love on us bestowed, that we should now be called the children of God.

May thy gracious presence go with us this day. Put good thoughts into our minds and good words into our mouths. Make us strong to do that which is pleasing in thy sight, by making thy word the guide of our lives. Bless our friends that are near and dear unto us. May their lives be found precious in thy sight. Command thy blessing to rest upon our neighbors and all with whom we associate.

May thy richest spiritual blessing rest upon thy servant, our pastor, and all the people to whom be ministers; so that the work of the Lord may prosper in our hands. Bless our children and youth by writing their names in the Book of life and inclining them to walk in thy commands.

Forgive our sins, comfort our hearts, strengthen our faith and enable us to serve Thee acceptably; we ask it for Jesus' sake. Amen.

ANOTHER ONE

We thank thee our Father, for the Bible, thine own blessed word, that teaches us, what we are to believe concerning Thee, and what duties Thou requirest of us. Help us to read it with the understanding heart, that it may prove a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.

We thank Thee for the voice of conscience, prompting us to do right. Enable us by Thy grace to do promptly, that which we know to be right. Help us to remember the Sabbath, to keep it holy unto the Lord. Help us to set our affection on the "house of the Lord;" and when we worship Thee, may the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us. Bless our friends and neighbors; all who seek an interest in our prayers. Forgive our sins and enable us to serve thee acceptably, for Jesus' sake. Amen.

A PRAYER FOR THE AGED

Ever blessed and gracious God, our Father, I humbly pray that thou wilt not cast me off in the time of old age, when my strength faileth. Preserve unto me the right use of my faculties for my soul trusteth in Thee. Comfort and strengthen my soul in the day of weakness that I may attest thy faithfulness in fulfilling all thy gracious promises.

Thou hast taught me to know mine end and the measure of my days, that I might apply my heart unto wisdom; and desire to dwell in Thy presence, where there is fulness of joy; and at thy right hand, where there are pleasures for evermore.

When the time comes for my inexperienced soul to leave its earthly temple, send the blessed angels to carry it to the mansions, thou hast prepared for the redeemed, who put their trust in Thee; and accord unto me an abundant entrance into the Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To whom be praise, dominion and glory, now and forever. Amen.

"How beautiful to be with God! To lay aside this toil-worn dress, To wear a crown of righteousness, And robes of purest white possess; And sing the sweet redemption song." —Frances Willard.



XXXV

PRESBYTERIAL MEETINGS AND PICNICS

OAK HILL IN 1905.—NOT A BUCKET.—GOING TO PRESBYTERY.—ENTERTAINMENT FOR EVERYBODY.

On August 31, 1905, the Presbytery of Kiamichi met at Oak Hill, at a time when an attack of malaria at his summer home at Fonda, Iowa, prevented the return of the superintendent. The attendance of visitors was unusually large. It fell to the lot of Miss Eaton, matron, and Miss Ahrens to provide for their entertainment. They were ably assisted by Miss M. A. Hall and Mitchell S. Stewart. They had sixty for dinner on Friday and Saturday and one hundred and twenty-five on Sabbath.

On this occasion three new members were added to the roll, Jack A. Thomas was elected and ordained an elder, and Samuel Harris, a deacon.

The meetings of the Presbytery, which are always evangelistic, have now come to be the most attractive, interesting and profitable meetings held in their respective communities. As the available churches are few in number, the meetings are held in each every two or three years. The coming of the Presbytery is anticipated with a great deal of interest, and a "big crowd" is the delight of the congregation, receiving and entertaining it. This is a fact worthy of special note.

NOT AN OAK HILL BUCKET

In the Territorial days, or, rather previous to the allotment of lands to them individually in 1905, the most attractive meeting, in their various neighborhoods, was the annual old-time picnic, made interesting by the presence of a "merry go round" that relieved them of their nickels, and a platform, where promiscuous dancing was sure to be continued through most of the night, and be accompanied with considerable dissipation and immorality.

When the superintendent discovered the nature of these gatherings, he did not hesitate to declare their dissipating and demoralizing tendency. He also stated the attitude of the institution in regard to them by giving utterance to the following sentiment: "Whilst everything at the academy is available for the betterment of the colored people, there is not an Oak Hill bucket available for use, at a dissipating and demoralizing dance in the timber." This sentiment sounded a little harsh and cruel at first, but it now commands the approval of all the good students and of those, who are doing most to promote the happiness and welfare of the young and rising generation. Since the young people have come to participate, to a greater extent, in the frequent meetings of the Presbytery and in an annual Sunday school convention, the old time "dance in the timber", has become a "thing of the past."

EVERYBODY GOES TO PRESBYTERY

The meetings of the Presbytery are sure to be attended by everyone, living in the vicinity of the meeting, and by as many others as can manage to "get there." It is unusual for any colored minister and his elder to be absent from any meeting, no matter how great may be the difficulties, that have to be overcome in getting there. If the place of meeting can be easily reached, additional delegates are chosen to represent the Sunday school, the aid, Endeavor and Women's Missionary societies.

If these additional delegates get to the meeting, they are duly enrolled and later are accorded all the time they wish in making their oral reports of the work they represent. All seem to enjoy making reports and addresses at Presbytery. Many are animated with the earnest desire to aid in giving their race an uplift, and the address in Presbytery seems to be one of the nicest opportunities to do this. This is especially true of some of those among the older people who cannot read, survivors of the slavery period who inherited good memories and good voices. Several of the most eloquent and deeply impressive appeals, it was the privilege of the author to hear at the academy or Presbytery, were delivered by those, whose condition of slavery in youth and isolated location afterward prevented attendance at school. By frequent participation in religious meetings, where they endeavored to repeat and enforce Bible truths, to which they had given an attentive ear, caused them, like some of the famous philosophers in the days of Socrates and Aristotle, to be held in high esteem as persons of intelligence and influence in their respective communities. Henry Crittenden, Elijah Butler, Mrs. Charles Bashears, and Simon Folsom were all good examples of unlettered, but natural orators, who found their widest sphere of usefulness in the activities of the church.

GOING TO PRESBYTERY

Those, attending the meetings of the Presbytery, often experienced serious disappointments on the way and some little inconveniences, when they got there. Previous to the organization of the church at Garvin in 1905, there were only two churches, Oak Hill and Beaver Dam at Grant, that were located near the railroad. All the other churches were located in rural neighborhoods, 8 to 20 miles distant from the nearest station. The roads to them were merely winding trails through the timber, that crossed the streams where it was possible to ford them, without any grading of the banks.

That which we witnessed and partially experienced, in making our first trip through the timber to a meeting of the Presbytery at Frogville, about fifteen miles from the station, was characteristic of three other meetings we attended, at a distance from the railroad.

The delegation, that arrived at the station, consisted of nearly two dozen and about half of them were women. We arrived at the place the wagons were to meet us, after walking across the railroad bridge over the Kiamichi river, a short distance west of the station. When we arrived there, we found only one wagon of the three, that were expected. That was a serious but not a stunning disappointment. The luggage was crowded into the bed of that wagon and it carried also a few of the older women. The rest of us set out on a good long walk, indulging the hope other teams would surely meet and relieve us somewhere on the road. As the hour of noon was approaching, we anticipated our needs on the way, by having a box of crackers and a slice of cheese put on the wagon. When we reached a half way place, where there was also a spring of good water, this lunch was greatly enjoyed. We managed to ride the remainder of the distance, and at the end of the journey we heard no one complain the "road am hard to travel."

ENTERTAINMENT FOR EVERYBODY

The problem of entertainment, always seemed before-hand a rather serious one for the few families, living near the church in a rural neighborhood. Their generous hospitality, however, never seemed to be over taxed, but to have an elasticity, that included a cordial welcome to every one, and as much of comfort during the night as it was possible to extend. Many of the younger people on Saturday and Sabbath evenings, when their number would be greatest, would be grateful when they were accorded a pillow and blanket for a bed on the floor, or a bench.

The happy, hopeful spirit, manifested by both hosts and guests, in meeting the responsibilities and unexpected disappointments, that are sometimes experienced while attending meetings of the Presbytery in the rural neighborhoods, reminds one of the happy remark of a little six year old boy, in regard to a sunny visitor, whom he knew had experienced many trials and had just left their home: "Yes, I like her; she goes over the bumps as though her heart had rubber tires."