1894

"We had the most wonderful Reunion that could possibly be held, or even dreamed It was simply perfect." So wrote Quincy Blakely in a moment of supreme enthusiasm two or three days after the Reunion. However, it seems to be a general consensus of opinion that our Fiftieth was the best of all our Reunions. Most of all it was best in fellowship. Various factors doubtless contributed, such as excellent weather, unusually satisfactory entertainment at The Inn, and rare cooperation on the part of all the College people. It wasn't the best attended Reunion (that was reached at our Twentieth when 83.3% of our living graduates were present), but it was a remarkable achievement to have 36 out of a possible 48, that is 75%, with four nongraduates in addition, for good measure.

On account of war conditions no special effort had been made to secure an unusual attendance of wives and children. However, the total here was very good, that is 29. The attendance at the Class dinner was 65.

"Events" were kept to the minimum in order that the family might have the utmost opportunity for just talking with each other. However, President and Mrs. Hopkins graciously opened their grounds for a reception on Saturday afternoon, when the Secretary of the Class gave the usual "Message" from the Fiftieth Year Class, with a response by President Hopkins. A Memorial service was held in the Wren Room of the Sanborn House on Sunday morning, and it may be said that no better place could have been found for the unusually fitting words of Quincy Blakely at that time.

Phil Marden, who has the principal responsibility for bringing out our Fiftieth Year history, reported that it was nearly all in type and it was expected to appear around August first.

Probably many went to the Fiftieth thinking that this was to be the end of our Class story. Instead we are now eagerly looking forward to the Fifty-fifth. Who knows but what we may win the Cup then. Of course, there was no competition for it this year. Two men who showed real courage in coming to the Reunion were Herbert Wilson and John Bartlett. Herbert's wife had been fondly looking forward to coming, but was suddenly taken from him about ten days before they were to start for Hanover. John's wife had gone somewhat earlier. They both must have felt that our sympathy was very real.

Secretary, 74. Kirkland St., Cambridge (38), .Mass. Treasurer, Somersworth, N. H.