On Wednesday, the 31st, occurred the closing exercises, beginning at 9 A.M. The school went through with their essays, declamations, dialogues and songs in a way that reflected credit upon them and their teachers. The church was well filled with spectators of all colors. Three students received certificates of graduation from the High-School course, and these will probably go to Atlanta University or elsewhere in the fall. After the programme was finished, some of the visitors were called on for speeches. Hon. Felix Corput, Mayor of the city, responded in few but commendatory words. Hon. B. M. Zettler, County Superintendent of Schools, made quite an extended address, with somewhat of eulogium and considerable of good counsel. Rev. E. J. Adams, a colored Presbyterian clergyman from Baltimore, a man of fine education and ability, made an excellent address. He spoke very highly of the great educational work of the A. M. A., in whose service he has himself labored, as a missionary in Africa, and also in this country. Mr. J. J. Clay, a prominent white citizen, spoke with much apparent sympathy and earnestness, commending education and the work of our school. There were several other short speeches from former students or patrons of the school, all showing deep interest in its work.
On Wednesday night came the grand finale in the shape of a closing concert, conducted by our music teacher, Miss Jennie Woodworth. Although the night was very rainy and stormy, the church was full, with quite a number of white people, who expressed their great gratification. The singing was good, and the concert well carried out to the end, showing decided musical ability on the part of all in solo, duet and chorus singing. Mr. Derry, a friendly white citizen, made an impromptu and voluntary address, full of real sympathy and kind words. The daily paper printed a flattering report of the concert, and of the whole work of the school. Public sentiment in this respect is becoming more and more friendly.
We are glad to report that both school and church have prospered during the year. The total enrollment of students is 199, and we rejoice to know that additional school rooms, so greatly needed, are to be provided before another year begins. Fifteen or twenty of the scholars were converted during the precious revival in March last. Quite a number will engage in teaching during the summer, and several will go to higher institutions of learning in the fall.