Watkins Glen High School - Senecan Oracle Yearbook (Watkins Glen, NY)

Text from Pages 1 - 62 of the 1903 volume:

WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL. WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL THE ORACLE. j j £ £ Published by SENIOR CLASS OF 1903. 5Dcl icatc to Carolyn JGcll GaplorO, patron Saint of Class of THE ORACLE. 3 1903 ORACLE STAFF. X? £7 Editor.in-Chie f: VV. 13. WAIT. Assistant Editors: CORA 13 PALMEK, MARGUERITE N. SCOBKY, GERTRUDE M. RICHARDSON, MYRA A. BUCK, LEGWAND VV. FROST, GRACE HARING, HELEN L. CULLEN, RAV R. WAIT. Lenrand W. F rost, Finance: Ray F. Walt. Helen L,. Cullen, Printing: Marguerite N. Scobey, Gertrude XT. Richardson, Cora 13. Palmer. Artists: James A. Hope, Florence S Barries. 4 THE ORACLE. EDITORIAL. OR three years past, a school year-book, The Oracle, lias been published by the students of Watkins High School, at first by means of funds raised by themselves, but of Jate through financial aid from the Hoard of Education. In the publication of this fourth edition of the hook, we believe that we have in some respects improved upon those of former years. Our aim has been in a large degree to make a hook which shall he interesting both to those who are at present enjoying the opportunities afforded by this school and to those who have taken up their life work, but who, nevertheless, have a lingering interest in the work of the school. We believe that the Alumni Department is an original and welcome feature. We are to some extent indebted to the former editors of The Oracle for suggestions regarding the work, as well as to the members of the student body of the school who aided in many ways. For the financial aid which has made this work possible, the Honorable Members of the Board of Education may be sure they have our heartiest thanks. In such a work there must be a little fun. and if there is some at others' expense, we beg of them to remember the rhyme. If mayhap we have chanced to tease. Have writ what likes you not, We ask that all may be forgot. Save that we sought to please. W. H. W., '08. V. H. S. FACULTY. THE ORACLE. o BOARD OF EDUCATION. OFFICERS. 0. P. Hurd, S. S. Johnson. E. A. GlLLKTT, Grorgr A. Ringer, .... President Clerk Treasu rer Collector Charlrs A. Cole. John Haughry, Grorgr C. Wait. MEMBERS. (). P. Hurd, Grorgr I). Norman. Henry Shulman. M. M. Cass. Jr. COMMITTEES. Finance, ------ Norman and Wait Teachers. ------- Wait and Cass Repairs, Insurance and Supplies, - Shulman and Norman Library and Apparatus, - - - Cole and Haughry Text Books and Curriculum, - Cass and ('ole Truancy and Indigent Pupils, - - Haughry and Shulman tF WATKINS HIGH SCHOOL FACULTY. Samuel S. Johnson, John A. Peers. A. B., (). B. K., Carolyn B. Gaylord. Julia M. Hawes, Jennie M. Haring. - Principal Vice-Principal Preceptress - Teachers’ Class History, English and Preparatory PROF. S. S. JOHNSON. WII ILE we turn with grateful hearts to our teachers, it is with special gratitude.that, we look to our beloved principal, Samuel S. Johnson. Twenty-nine years ago betook up his duties here as principal of the Academy. The school was very weak and run down, hut under Ids wise and able guidance it has gradually attained a prominent place among its sister High Schools. Prof Johnson is a man of strong character and resolute purpose. He has ever sought the advancement of the school and the uplifting of its students. He has an excellent knowledge of mathematics, and his ability to teach arithmetic and algebra has long been recognized. On account ot his mature age and long experience lie is especially qualified to have charge of a High School. G. M., bJ. 6 THE ORACLE. PROF. JOHN BEERS. Prof. John Beers, our Vice-Principal, hails from LeRaysville, Pa. He was graduated from Candor High School in’95 from which he went to Collegiate Institute, Towanda, Pa. He was graduated there in ’97 and then entered Syracuse University where lie pursued a classical course and graduated in ’01 with the highest honors. In September of that year became to Watkins High School and now has charge of classes in Foreign Languages and Geometry. Mr. Beers has demonstrated a thorough mastery of his subjects and by his interest and untiring industry, has been able to skillfully conduct his pupils over the stumbling blocks that have confronted them in their attempts to acquire a knowledge of foreign languages. He has taken a lively interest in athletics, having helped organize our efficient basket ball and base ball teams. Mr. Beers, during his stay among us. has won many warm friends who wish him the greatest success. L. W. F., ’03. MISS GAYLORD. Miss Carolyn B. Gaylord, Preceptress of Watkins High School and Patron Saint of the class of 1903, is now nearing the end of her fourth and last year with us. Throughout the whole of her work here, her success has been such as no other teacher has ever excelled. Possessed of an excellent college education, with the knowledge of how to use it to the best advantage, her efficiency in the class room has been well recognized from the first, while her sincere interest in all matters, literary, athletic and social, relating to the welfare and progress of the school, has won her a place among her pupils which few teachers are fortunate enough to attain. Sweet in disposition, tactful and becomingly dignified in manner, well-read and popular—surely an ideal teacher, did not circumstances fix her vocation otherwise. Until the past year, Miss Gaylord’s work in the High School has included both English and Scientific subjects; but last fall, much to her own delight and that of all so fortunate as to be pursuing any of the Sciences at that time, she was relieved of the work in English and left free to give her whole attention to the line of study of which she is so fond and in which she is so ably prepared to instruct. The regard in which Miss Gaylord is held by the members of the Senior Class was conclusively brought out when they conferred upon her the highest honor in their power, and with unanimous voice chose her as their Patron Saint—the first that Watkins High School 1ms ever known. Among all her friends, none can go beyond them in sincere respect and affection; and assheleaves us in response to a claim which we recognize as even stronger than our own. she is followed by the love and best wishes of the class of 1903. wherever her future course may lie. M. N. S., ’03. THE ORACLE. 7 MISS HAWES. Miss Julia M. Hawes has had charge of the training class work three years, and each of these years has been marked by increased efficiency. Miss Hawes is a progressive teacher, and one who has power to impress her pupils with the importance of thorough training. It is impossible for those who are under her supervision to do halfhearted work. The influence of her thoroughness and enthusiasm makes her pupils strive to attain the highest results. The excellent work done by Miss Hawes lias received the high commendation from the Training Class Inspector, and it is to be hoped that Watkins High School will be fortunate enough to retain her for many years to come. But Miss Hawes is more than a “teacher,” she is a true friend. Her charming personality, and the humor, which never degenerates into the unkindness of wit, have won many friends. All who know her have been helped to higher ideals and worthier ambitions; and the influence of these things will remain. G. M. R., ’03. 7 7 MISS JENNIE MAE HARING. This is Miss Haring’s first year as one of our teachers, but in that short time she has won many warm friends and has proven herse'f a capable and efficient addition to the faculty. She graduated from this school with the Class of ’98, after which she spent a year in the Training Class. The past three years have been spent in teaching—two years at Enfield, Tompkins County, and one year at Pine Creek, Orange County. She had just begun a year’s work at Alexander, Genesee County, when the position here was offered her. Miss Haring has charge of the English and History courses, and from her success it can easily be seen that she has at least one forte, and delights to act as a sister to the younger boys. M. A. B., 03. When the faculty dies and goes to Heaven— If enormous sins can be forgiven— They'll swear “ Prof.” in as a sub for Peter, (Who could they get with expression sweeter) To stand and watch the golden gate And seize the wretches that come in late. “Report!” he’ll cry in that old way; You’ll know him if you chance that way.—Ex. Take care of the pennies and the dollars will soon take care ol you. Pcnna. Punch Bowl. 8 THE ORACLE. SENIOR. BOAST. ONE year ago a class was organized in Watkins High School, the members of which called themselves the “gay young Juniors” of 1902. There were fourteen of them then, and though during the transformation into “grave old Seniors” their numbers have shrunk to nine, this loss seems but to have increased the class spirit and strength ened the bonds of class friendship. Though perhaps not as dignified as tradition commonly requires, the Seniors of 1908 are second to none in loyalty, aspiration and honest endeavor. While the Latin motto selected by the class is translated ip the words “Step by Step.” there is also a Bible verse which well expresses the attitude taken by the members on all occasions—“Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth, a stranger, and not thine own lips.” In accordance with this principle, it is not our intention to dwell with self-complacent egotism upon what must be already apparent to all the world—namely, our past glories; but, rather, upon our possibilities for the future. That the class of ’08 has outdone all previous ones, even the self satisfied “ naughty two,” in scholarship marks, is indeed something to be proud of; that it is the first ever to have chosen a Patron Saint (a choice made, moreover, with never a dissenting voice—a circumstance hitherto unheard of in class meeting) is an unmistakable mark of progress; that the majority of its members lies twofold with the genus femina is another source of superiority; but it is not in these facts themselves so much as in what they would seem to promise for the future that the true value lies. That any of our band will startle the universe with wealth of achievement we scarcely dare hope, but that each will find his own particular place and fill it better than anyone else could do. we sincerely believe and trust. And if, perchance, a single genius should bloom from among the nine members, the remaining eight will know no prouder moment than when they say to an admiring public: “I was classmate with that person, back in the old High School, in 1908.” Our Senior year is nearly over. The time to which we have been looking forward ever since the “verdant freshmen” days has come and is npidiy passing away. How the High School is to keep on its foundations after we are gone is still an unsolved riddle; but even as the United States still stood after Washington’s withdrawal from public life, so Alma Mater will not be allowed to perish even when the most steadfast of her children have left her forever. What little we have been able to do to keep her honor bright we have done; and this charge, a legacy to us from the class of 1902, we in turn pass down to our Juniors, who. however wild and irresponsible at present, will before long be obliged to assume all the care and dignity which now is ours. Before we do this and pass into the Alumni Hall of Watkins High School we give three cheers and a tiger for her Seniors—past, present and future. M. N. S . ’08. THE ORACLE. 9 President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Patron Saint, Colors, Motto, Plant, Tree, Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Prophetess, Historian, CLASS RECORD. William B. Wait Marguerite N. Scorey ......................Myra A. Buck Legrand W. Frost Carolyn B. Gaylord .......................Green and White ......................“Gradatira” .....................Fern ....................Purple Leaf Maple Marguerite N. Scorey William B. Wait Cora B. Palmer Grace Haring BASKET BALL. £? £? £7 OFFICERS. Ray F. Wait, Captain. Prof. J. A. Beers, Manager. MEMBERS. A. F. Forres or Tiios. Lem reck,..............Center Thos. Lem reck or Thos. Considine, - R. Forward M. Horn or F. F. Murphy, . L. Forward Ray F. Wait, - R. Guard Arthur I). Were, L. Guard GAMES PLAYED. GAME. WHERE PLAYED. SCORE. VV. H . s. W. H. S. vs. Keuka, Keuka, 5 23 W. H. S. vs. Watkins A. A. Watkins, 7 14 w. H. S. vs. Starkey, Starkey, 5 37 w. H. S. vs. Keuka. Keuka, 23 23 2nd W. H. S. vs. Odessa, ()dessa, 7 4 W. H. S. vs. Penn Van A. A. Penn Yan, 10 12 2nd W. H. S. vs. Odessa. Cook, 15 17 W. H. S. vs. Waverly, Cook, 18 13 W. H. S. vs. Reading. Reading. 18 3 W. H. S. vs. Cook. Cook. 1 37 W. H. S. vs. Sayre. Sayre, 25 12 W. H. S. vs. Elmira. Cook, 24 15 This year for the third time in the history of the school a basket ball team was organiy.ed. The two preceding teams were strong, but thanks 10 THE ORACLE. to the superior management of Prof. John A. Beers this year’s team es-tablished the best record. As will be noticed in the schedule, this year's team played but two High Schools, the other eleven games being against Athletic Associations and schools of a higher class. In these, older and better developed players were found, and considering the teams that our school played against, we think that we have established a record worthy of any High School. Our chief boast, if boast we will, is our standing with Keuka College, which is a tie. T. P. Consimne, ’37. BETA LITERARY SOCIETY. THIS well known society was organized in the fall of 02 by Prof. Johnson, who selected Legrand W. Frost, Fred E. Harvey and Arthur I). Webb as a committee to choose three girls and, with their help, form a society. The girls chosen were Marguerite N. Scobey. Ella F. Bradley and Nancy Abbey. With the efficient aid of the girls, the constitution was drawn up and the Beta Literary Society stood before the world. The meetings, which are held every other Wednesday evening, are very interesting and instructive, the purpose being to improve the student in debates and add to his or her literary knowledge. Any registered member of the High School is eligible to membership, about fifty having joined since its formation. OFFICERS. Bkrtha Cole, Albert W. Forbes, Bertha M. Thompson, Lelia V. Tolbert. President. Vice-President. Secretary. Treasurer. A. I). W.. 04. A United States consul, recently returned here, who evidently aspires to rival Mark Twain as a wit, gives the following account of how English is taught in French schools. ‘‘Jean, you will stand up, said the master to his brightest pupil, upon the occasion of the consul’s visit. “Now conjugate the verb, I have a gold mine.’” “ I have a gold mine, responded the bright pupil with scarcely an accent, “Thou hast a gold thine, He has a gold his’n, We have a gold our’n. You have a gold your’n, They have a gold their’n ”—Ex. She frowned at him and called him Mr. Simply because he came and Kr. That very night her just to spite That naughty Mr. Kr. Sr.—Ex. THE ORACLE. 1 1 JUNIOR. BOAST. WATKINS High School has passed through many prosperous years and sent out many bright students, but none who have surpassed the class which will go out into the world in 1904. This class is composed of sixteen members, eight of whom are girls and eight boys. The Senior Class of 1903 have been complimented on their good standings, but about fifty per cent, of the Junior Class were in the Senior Class when it was organized, therefore we are confident that the class of 1904 will excel the one of 1903. Among our members is our famous Greek student—the first one in the history of the school. The most distinguished feature, however, is that some of the class is good all of the time, allot' the class some of the time, but not all of the class all of the time. L. W. E., '04. MEMBERS OF JUNIOR CLASS. Lee W. ErvAY, .... President. Ella F. Bradley, - Vice-President. Edna Cooper,................................ Secretary. Horace It. White, .... Treasurer. Helen Nancy Abbey, Leroy F. Abrams, Lena M. Curry, JosieM. Curry, GIRLS’ Albert W. Giles. Fred A. Harvey, Lloyd I). Mottram, Ethel L. Guthrie, BASKET BALL £? OFFICERS. Ethel Van Lone, Arthur 1). Webb, Anson F. Hendrickson, Bertha M. Thompson. TEAM. Mary Weed, Captain. Carolyn Gaylord. Manager. ()i,a Tucker, Treasurer. REGULAR TEAM. • Marion Goff, Mary Weed. Ola Tucker, Nellie Mathews, Phoebe Baldwin, . R. L. Center Forward Forward It. Guard L. Guard Mildred Gatlin, - GAMES PLAYED. GAME. WHERE PLAYED. SCORE. W. H. S. W. H. S, vs. Cook, Cook, 17 6 W. H. S. vs. Starkey. Starkey, 15 6 w. H. S. vs. Starkey, Watkins, 18 4 w. H. S. vs. Dundee, Dundee, 9 7 w. H. S. vs. Keuka, Watkins, « 7 w. H. S. vs. Keuka, Keuka, 0 12 12 THE ORACLE. The people of the village of Watkins as well as the faculty and students of the High School are very proud of the Girls’ Basket Hall Team. They have had many contests with the girls’ teams of other schools, and have had the pleasure of wearing home the laurels after each game, excepting the two games played with Keuka College. The first meet with Keuka. which was at the Watkins Opera House, was a hard struggle on both sides from start to finish—in fact it was more like “that barbarous foot ball game’’ which is played mostly by men (?) or boys. At the finish when the whistle blew, the score was 7 to H in favor of Keuka, and our most able manager was found in one corner of the room in a terrible fit of hysteria, crying: Oh! my! while three or four of the Keuka girls were laid out in another corner, either from pure exhaustion or a dead faint and under the care of a physician. In fact, the fainting spells of the Keuka girls during the contest were quite numerous. The return game was simply a repetition of the first, so far as our defeat was concerned. We fear we have, like the knights of old, related our defeats and slighted our victories, but we will suffice to say that in two games with Starkey, one with Cook and another with Dundee, we have returned victorious with scores that would astonish a college athletic club. But the members of the team are far too just to take the credit of their victories upon themselves; they one and all unite in praising the excellent instruction and training they have received from their beloved manager, Miss Carolyn B. Gaylord. M. M. W., M. L. G. 'F GRASSHOPPERS. Motto—Good deeds toward the janitor; brotherly love to our friends. BELIEVING in the doctrine that “ it is more blessed to give than to receive,’' a small number of the more philanthropic students of tin school decided to form a society, the object and main purpose of which is expressed in the beautiful motto quoted above. Unlike many charitable societies, this organization does not distribute its store of good without first possessing good evidence that the parties to be helped are worthy of such aid. It is also a rule that only High School students and the janitor are to be benefited in any way. The chief demand upon the society being fuel to keep the body warm, the school authorities were kind enough to order several old seats broken up, and although the goodly supply of thoroughly seasoned hardwood slats thus furnished were kept in the basement, they were used to a good purpose several times during the winter. One of the most touching cases in the history of the society was that of our dear beloved janitor. Now everyone knows that indispensible person is the hardest worked individual in the county. So that when GRASSHOPPERS. THE ORACLE. 13 that some of the “Grasshopper’’officers on a tour of inspection, perceived the furnace fires were not burning very brightly, it is easily seen what impulse caused them to turn to the work of stoking them to the proper degree of warmth. However, a small mistake on the part of the fireman caused a little trouble. Instead of putting on good coal he used ashes, probably for the sake of economy, and for a draft he left the furnace doors wide open; of course the fires were soon extinguished, and our janitor received a vote of thanks from the principal. But this little error was made up for by the good deeds done later, during the spring. A committee of members was at once appointed to follow (at a safe distance) from place to place, and do any little odd jobs that Mr. Taylor might have left undone, such as unlocking the door, turning out the gas, or wedging a plug under the attic door so that no one could follow' him upstairs. The janitor has expressed on several different occasions his high appreciation of this careful attention The society is noted for its work in establishing order and neatness among the school pupils, especially among the girls. One rainy day, when there wrere several gross of rubbers scattered along the halls, in groups of two, one of our greatest of reformers took it upon himself to teach the owners of the shoes an object lesson in neatness. He. therefore, with great trouble to himself, piled them all up in one large heap, so that when the owners came to go home they could easily pick out their own property. Such has been the success that has attended the careful management of the funds, that our Secretary is very busy acknowledging such communications as the following: Watkins, April 20th, 1903. Skc’y “Grasshoppers,” Sir;—1 had that “tired feeling.” I wanted to sit down all the time. One night Mr. Mottram advised me to take some of your treatment, massage he calls it. I followed his advice and am happy to say that I have not been able to sit down since. Yours, Legrand Frost. W. B. W., ’03. THE ALPHA LITERARY SOCIETY. Ethel Van Lone, Mary Weed, Marion Goff. Mildred Gatlin, President. Vice-President. Secretary. Treasurer. The Alpha Literary Society was organized Oct. 3, 1002. At this time the members numbered thirty-three, but as many have left school, it is somewhat smaller; however, new members have been added until at present there are twenty-seven. The purpose of the Alpha is the improvement of its members in f heir literary work. At its meetings which, are held once every two 14 THE ORACLE. weeks, on Wednesday evening, six members, previously selected, entertain the society with essays, recitations and interesting bits of news. Music is made a special feature of the meetings. To vary the entertain nients, debates are sometimes held instead of the regular program, three teachers acting as judges. The benelit of this society cannot be overestimated. In debating and writing essays, the members not only attain a knowledge of things they would otherwise pass by unnoticed, but gain confidence in themselves, which will greatly help them in future years. They learn to be self-reliant and will be better able to strive for themselves when they leave school. The members all take an interest in the work and many pleasant evenings have been spent at the entertainments. In after years we will remember, with pleasure, the Alpha as one of the most beneficial societies to which we ever belonged. W. H. S. BASE BALL CLUB. 7 7 £ OFFICERS. Ray F. Wait, ----- President. T. A. Lkmbkck, ... . Captain. Prof. J. A. Bkkrs, ----- Manager. TEAM. Murphy, Catcher, W. Wait, 1st Rase. Spknckr, 2d Base, Lembkck, Pitcher, R. Wait, 2nd Base, Burch, Right Field, White, Short-stop, Hendrickson, Center, Bunn, Left Field. Two games have been played both of which were won by our opponents. The first with the Kiowas at Horselieads was a very closely contested game, lasting 12 innings. The pitching of Lembeck and of Van Duzer were the features of the game. The other with Horselieads High School played at Watkins was not such a fast game, although except for one inning it was a well played game. We have dates with Starkey Seminary, Waterloo High School and return games with the Kiowas and Horselieads High School. GAMES PLAYED. W. H. S. vs. Kiowas. W. H. S. vs. H. H. S.. 'F W. H. S. 4 5 2 i H. R. W., ’04. (rood morning, Willie. I am gladt o see you early of late, you used to be behind before but now your first at last.—Exchange. THE ORACLE. 1 5 A LETTER. £? £7 Watkins, N. Y., November 21, 1903. Dear Pata:—You wanted me to write and tell you how I get along here and how I like the place, so I will now try to do so. Watkins is an awfully big place, papa; the streets cross each other and there are the most people, why one day the physics class (that is where they teach about falling bodies, I’m glad they didn’t see me the time I fell off that strawstack) were watching the shadows of people who went by and do you know there were two or three people and a dog in not more than twenty minutes. Put I must tell you about our school now. It is a great big brick building, and to get up where I am you have to go up a 'ot of stairs. I’m afraid this will cause my shoes to wear out, but I’m as careful as can be and always take three steps at a time. There is one large room and this is where we all meet mornings. The girls sit out in the middle and sing. I wanted the boys to go too but they seem kinda bashful so the girls have to get along alone. Just before we take our seats, that is before the girls do, Mr. Johnson (most of the boys call him Prof, but I don't think that sounds nice, do you, papa, for he is quite an old man) generally gets up and gives us some good advice, then, he makes one or two rules. This is so the people won’t get beyond his control. He says the queerest things; once he said we must do whatever Miss Haring (she is another of our teachers) wanted us to. He would hold up her hand in everything and the board would hold up his. I didn’t know people held hands only when somebody went to see somebody like the time Jerry Murphy came to see sister Sue. Well, then Miss Gaylord plays a march, “Here comes the bride,” but I guess she means “Here sits the bride.” and then we get ready to go to classes. Mr. Johnson rings a little bell and sometimes lie acts mad and rings it good and loud, then we go to the recitation rooms. When Mr. Beers is in the big room we have lots of fun. If anything is done that he don’t like he hits the desk with his pencil and sometimes he gets real angry. One day he was so angry he spoke to Tom Considine. Some of the boys write notes to the girls and the girls answer. Do you think that is right? The boys have a society called the “Grasshoppers,” and they grab people and initiate them. I hope they don’t get me, but 1 am very popular so am afraid they will for they want the popular fellows, they say. I was very glad to get the 25 cents. Thot that would last me a long fjine, but we pupils thot it would be awfully nice to get Mr. Johnson a present for his birthday so we all put together and bot him a lovely Morris chair, just like Deacon Haskill’s. I gave live cents. Hope you won’t care. Well, I guess I have written about enough. I in pretty earefijl whom I go with. 1 don't want to go with any one who uses bad 16 THE ORACLE. words. I heard some one say “darn it” the other day, but tell mama not to worry fori won’t have anything to do with him. I went to church and Sunday-school last Sunday and expect to go to prayer meeting tonight. Write and tell me how the pigs and chickens are, also the cows and lambs, also mama and Sue. Good bye. Your obedient son. Tommy. M. A. B., m X? HIGH SCHOOL LOG BOOK. 7 7 Sept. 2, 1902—School opens. A number of “would be” Seniors of both sexes appear at the building at an unearthly hour to obtain back seats. Question of the day—how long will they keep them? Sept. 3—Prof. Johnson reads Eccl. in for the first time since school opened yesterday at 9 a. m. The pupils of long standing at once realized what it was that made school seem so unfamiliar the day before, and the new arrivals received a valuable “ first impression.” Sept. 5—Prof., who is “ no respecter of persons,” informs the Seniors in the back of the room that they may soon be invited to “come way front and sit down.” Sept. 8—Miss Haring, the “ cracker jack.” arrives, and bids fair to make the last period of the afternoon a veritable reign of terror. But time is a wonderful softener. Sept. 10—Myra Buck distinguishes herself by being the first Senior to fulfill Prof’s prophecy (no pun intended) of Sept. 5. Sept. 15—Prof, makes his annual announcement—“All W. H. S. girls must pass in and out at the south end of the hall.’’ Sept. 17—Where was Cora Palmer when roll was called at 4 p. m.V Some say: “ In the hall with her Cornell Freshman;” others: “ In the cloak-room, dressing.” Wonder which explanation the young lady her self advanced to the Professor?” Oct. 19—The executive committee of the Alpha was moved to cheers at their business meeting. Cora Palmer and Lloyd Mot tram agreed upon one point ! ! ! Xov. 12—Prof, requests-(?) the girls in the Physics class to start for class on time and not “go traipsing down the aisle” after his Algebra class is called. Nov. 13—On the tap of the Professor’s bell, the four girls above mentioned started on a mad rush in the direction of the Laboratory. The Black Diamond isn’t in it any more. Evidently this is Prof. Beers’ opinion, by the haste with which he got out of their path as they came bearing down upon him. Nov. 17—Truly the importance of the Seniors is increasing ! Two of them. Myra Buck and Helen Cullen, had a special march played for their exit after school to-night—and by order of the Professor himself ! % HOYS’ BASKET BALL TEAM THE ORACLE. 17 Nov. 25—Miss Haring met with an accident to her teeth in Elementary English class, and has seemed strangely reluctant to smile ever since. Dec. 12—M-irguerite Scobey forgot to ask Prof. Johnson whether she might be excused early until she was in the hall, ready to go. Then, in her excitement, she backed into the arms of a man who was with the Professor. A few minutes later. Jennie Starkweather leaped into the arms of this same man. It is our opinion that he must by this time have some rather pronounced ideas as to the demonstrativeness of W. H. S. girls. Dec. 15—At about 8:20 this morning, the part of the continent near Seventh street was convulsed by an earthquake. It was explained at the High School a little later, when one of the students testified to having seen Prof. Johnson fall fiat as he was leaving his house for school. Same date—The Professor's Scripture reading this morning was not Eccl. Ill; it was one containing the words, “His head shall be brought lower than the dust.” Dec. 1H—Nan Abbey was called out of school this morning. As she went into the hall, observers saw her spring forward with open arms, and a few minutes later she returned and asked to be excused, “to see a friend.” Upon the Professor’s inquiring if her friend was a lady, she blushed, but “could not tell a lie.” Yesterday, to day and forever—Prof. Johnson remarks to the freshmen in the front of the room that unless this “everlasting talking and laughing” is stopped, they will all be indefinitely expelled. Jan. 5, 1903—The new year opens with glory for Watkins High School. One of the Faculty has received a message over the Pacific cable ! Jan. 16—Albert Giles embraced Cora Palmer in Physics class. Feb. 9—Ella Bradley attends two business meetings: One at the school-house, the other at the marsh. The Dike and Wood at the latter did not seem to interfere with the excellence of the skating. Feb. 24—Frederick Sherman introduced Miss Bertha Cole as “mine Frau” to Prof Beers. Mar. 4—We can’t understand why Carrie Wasson should object so violently to the Alpha glee club singing about “Massachusetts, grand and great,” at the society meeting this evening. Mar. 5—Miss Haring seems to be trying to rival the “son John of Mother Goose, as she came to school this morning with “one shoe off and one shoe on.” A strange time of year to be harvesting a corn crop, Miss Haring ! Mar. 10—Prof, asked Sherman a new question—“What is the difference between a pound of feathers and a pound of lead?’ After Shermans reply, Prof, remarked: “If everyone knew as much as Sherman, they would be all right ;” and that noon the scrap-basket was the smallest head-gear possible for F. E. D. S. 18 THE ORACLE. Mar. 11—Miss Haring sat between two boys at tin Beta meeting tins evening. Mar. 18—Carrie Wasson was late for school this morning. If Prof. Johnson would like to know the reason, we suggest that he apply to her Montour Falls friend for an explanation. Mar. 25—Albert Giles stood 1(H) in Geometry ! ! ! Apr. 13—School re-opens after spring vacation. Prof, makes use of his old, yet ever touching allegory concerning a “race horse” and the “last quarter.” Apr. 22—Wonder why Carrie Wasson blushed when Miss Haring asked her what “Mass.” stood for? We do not think it was from inability to reply. Apr. 25—Harrison Brown thinks it would be lonely in Heaven with only George Washington and himself. Apr. 28—At the Cook-Watkins base-ball game. Floyd Bunn’s “big brother” acted in the capacity of assistant chief of-police. His duties were performed very well and he should be congratulated on his success- Apr. 28—Five Senior girls, having met to work on The Oracle. telephoned to a near-by grocery for ten cents’ worth of cinnamon drops, to be delivered at the south door. They got it. too, and on credit at that. Apr. 28—Myra Buck takes the prize as vocalist for the Physics class. Apr. 28—Cora Palmer was obliged to cut class-meeting this morning in order to get her Lat(t)in lesson. Apr 28—Miss Haring received a tremendous shock at 11:20 a.m., when Cora Palmer and Myra Buck were on time for Roman History class. Apr. 20—Sadie Brewin, by mistake or otherwise, answered to the name of “Booth” at roll-call this morning. Apr. 29—No Physics class this morning. Cora Palmer and Legrand Frost improve the opportunity by reading “ The Mystery of the Haunted School House, or Who Turned out the Gas”? on the hall stairs. May 1—Meeting of The Oracle stall' at which Grace Haring did not mention Buffalo. May 1—Kate Campbell, Lee Ervay, Josie Curry and “Pete” White go botanizing on the front steps of the school-house this afternoon. May 4—Grace Haring, to avoid shocking Mr. Beers, said “demon instead of “devil” in German class to day. May 5—‘ Art” Webb, during Physics class, saw two gills carrying umbrellas pass the school-house. May 5—Can any one tell us the language of the lily? Fred Harvey sent one to Jessie Culver to-day, and we are anxious to know what is brewing. May 6— Bert Wixson and Irene Evelyn were found “twoing it” on the steps of the young lady's boarding place after the breaking-up of the Beta this evening. THE ORACLE. 19 May 6—Thk Oraclk staff received a most enjoyable serenade this evening. As the strains arose to the library windows, one of the staff read the following ditty: “C stands for chumps who sing at night Till nature hides herself in fright. The wandering felines, sore afraid, Cease their nocturnal serenade.” May 7—According to Eccl. III. there is “a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,” and the members of the Botany class would like to inform Miss Brouwere and Mr. Hope that a trip into the woods comes under the latter head. May 10—Did Wait went to church this evening. We can’t quite decide whether this unusual occurrence was due to the fact that be was allowed to assist in the management of the stereopticon or to the prospect of the lights being turned off. May 11—Delia. Tolbert, who believes that Ide-as may be obtained in other places than the school room, stayed home this afternoon to entertain company. May 11—Tom Lembeck goes out on the school ground “to get a breath of fresh air.” 17th century (in Holland)—Tulips of all kinds greatly prized. May 12, ’03 (in W. H. S.)—History repeats itself. May 13—Lights extinguished at the meeting of the Alpha this evening. Upon search being made for the guilty party the only person to be found in the cellar was our principal. Professor S. S. Johnson ! May 15—Miss Haring was obliged to give her Roman History class fifteen minutes in which to get through laughing. May 18—The boys of W. H. S. assist James Hope to “break away” this morning. May 20—Did Wait makes use of the drought to acquire the position of watering the campus—especially the class tree. May 29—Sadie Brewin forgot her “beau” this morning. May 30—Memorial day is a happy day for once; the Seniors finish Thk Oraclk. A green little freshman in a green little way Some chemicals mixed just for fun one day, And the green little grasses now tenderly wave O’er that green little freshman’s green little grave.—Ex. A requiem, a dirge, a moan, a howl, a lament, an abstract of every thing that is sorrowful and hideous of sound.—“Songs of the Nations, page 74. sung by the Girls’ Glee Club. 20 THE ORACLE. “AIN’T DAT A SHAME!” £? One dark and stormy night, The rain was falling fast. Miss Gaylord said to her Physics class: “Come to the electric light plant !” So they set out, just nine in all. They searched along the fence, But they couldn’t find the gate. And when they did—lo ! it was locked. And tough did seem their fate: Oh, listen to their mournful cry: “Ain’t dat a shame. A measly shame, To keep us students Out in the rain ! Open up that door And let us in ! We stand here freezin'. Wet to the skin ! ” Well, Frost he scaled the wall. And oped to them the gate, And then straight through the plant they went, Attended now in state, And many a “shock” they took with glee. At length they turned their steps From ’lectric lights to salt, But here, alas, they met rebuffs, And though quite free from fault They were turned out, and, wailing, cried: “Ain’t dat a shame, A measly shame, To keep us students Out in the rain ! Open up that door And let us in ! We stand here freezin’, Wet to the skin ! ” So then the boys set out To get the called-for “pass,” And while they went, the girls discussed The “salt-man’s horrid sass,”— His words profane had shocked them sore, But when the boys returned The pass they sought was “nit,” THE ORACLE. 2 1 And so, turned down, all started home, And town-folk had a lit As once again they heard that cry: “Ain’t dat a shame, A measly shame. To keep us students Out in the rain ! Open up that door And let us in ! We stand here freezin’, Wet to the skin ! ” M. N. S., ’03. GRINDS. Irish—He is what he is; God pity him; he might have been worse. Sherman—Brim full of learning, see that pedant stride, Bristling with horrid “Trigg” and puffed with pride. Raplee—He is a man with some of the propensities of the mule in him. Lembeck—If it were not for novels, shows, bowling alleys, women and above all a great dislike for work, I would be a fine student. Considine—I’d get married, but durn it. you know I’m so bashful, I s’pose you don’t doubt it, I’d never have courage to go ask the old folks about it. Griffin—I’m smarter a heap than I look. Campbell—I love its giddy gurgle, I love its fluent flow, I love to wind my mouth up, I love to hear it go. H. J. Brown—A good boy; would make a good hero for a Sunday-school book. Harvey—A stammering awkward that scarce dared raise his eyes before the magisterial gaze. Goff ) Tucker - —Not exactly sporty, but, shall I say it, young and giddy. Weed ) Ervay—A full grown child. I. ove—The deed I intend is great, but what as yet I know not. Forbes— May you live all the days of your life. Webb—But I confess I am fond of girls, yes I really am. L. Tolbert—What have we here? R. Wait—Unfriendly to society’s chief joys. Starkweather—The pink of prime precision. L. Bradley—Born a little shaver, and a little shaver yet. Curry} —Two l°vely berries moulded on one stem. Miss Hawes—I am resolved for death or dignity. Wilson—God bless our baby. 22 THE ORACLE. Thompson—I may be small but always have my way. Culver—She gets the idea alright, but she is not always happy in the expression. Hawes—There is mischief in this girl. Abbey—In thy face I see the ways of honor, truth and loyalty. M iss Grace Haring—Oh ! thou art mild, too mild—I pray thee swear. Yes, it is very easy for some people to be awkward. No personal allusion, of course, Mr. Stoughton. Did Wait—How good is he, how just. How fit for highest trust. Amasa Haughey—“He’ll never go there any more.” Pearl Everts—“With a zeal inexhaustible, inexplicable, undefinable, approaching almost to incomprehensibility. ” Brewin—Among the faithful is faithful only she. Mottram—I'd like to play the devil but I dar’sn't. Hope—From his forehead fell his tresses Smooth and parted like a woman. Bradley—Is she not exceeding fair. Wasson—A daughter of the gods, Divinely tall and most divinely fair. Buck ) Palmer -—“No respect for anything, human or divine !” Seobey MY EXPERIENCE IN A DUNGEON. TH E other morning it was very warm in the chapel, so I slipped from the room when Professor was not looking and went down in the basement with two other young rascals to study. When we reached the cellar we found the door locked. We were nearly brokenhearted. We sat down on the basement stairs and wept aloud. The noise attracted Romeo’s attention, and he came to the door and inquired w hether a doctor’s services were required or whether a quart of peppermint essence would relieve our sufferings. We sprang up and induced our beautiful janitor to admit us, by telling him we were a committee of three, appointed to examine his chewing tobacco. We were soon seated in the janitor’s office, preparing for work wdien wre heard a sound that filled our hearts with dread. It was the sound of heavy footsteps. The same thought struck us all. “It is the Professor!” Our hair stood upright on our heads, our teeth chattered, our bodies shook as with the ague, the moisture gathered on our brows. We knew only too well the awful penalty for leaving the room without permission. We knew that Professor would not let us enter the room for the morning exercises for a month, and that being deprived of hearing the girls’ sweet voices raised in song, we should pine away, become mere shadows and die of melancholia. The steps drew nearer, THE ORACLE. 23 the door opened and we beheld—Thomas Considine. Our hair resumed its normal position, so suddenly were we dazed by the shock. “Tommie” was evidently bent on getting a bottle of ink with a few “Nick Carters,” both of which are obtainable in the cellar. We saw Thomas go to the corner of the room where on a bench were placed two kegs, one of ink the other of coal oil, and a jug of Romeo’s favorite “Liver Medicine.” Need I say that this jug was the magnet that drew us to the basement so often? Thomas took some of it, anyway, and then, with his usual luck, filled the ink bottle with kerosene. After Mr. Considine returned to the regions above, my companions left me alone, securing the door with some pieces of two-inch wire. I had a feeling of pity forthem for I knew it was very warm out there inthe basement, so I seized a pail of water and emptied its contents over the door. Some sulphurous exclamations from without told me my aim was true. My jailers then went outside and laughed with demoniac glee at me through the bars over the windows. At last, aroused to terrible wrath, I vowed that if they did not get out of my light, I would shake my fist at them. The threat took effect and they left me alone in my misery. I began to suffer from hunger and thirst, for the only thing in the room, after I had been fastened up, (of course excepting myself) was the janitor's “Liver Medicine,” and 1 had long ago exhausted that. At last a thought struck me (fhe first one in years.) I could escape! Only three feet of stone lay between me and freedom. I was so hungry I would have welcomed the task of eating my way out. But fortunately a better way presented itself. I removed the doorknob, pushed the bolt through and opened the door. I went up to the big room and found I had been absent just ten minutes. F. E. H., 04. COZY CORNER. £7 £7 SPOONS. Two souvenir spoons on the parlor wall. When the lights are burning low, With naught but a ribbon to separate. Swing softly to and fro. Two human spoons on the parlor tete. With nothing at all to separate. Are spooning away at a terrible rate. As the shadows come and go. And the spoons above hold their silver sides, While they laugh at the spoons below, And say, “They are surely the spooniest spoons That ever we did know. ” 24 THE ORACLE. THE UNTRANSPORT ABLE. Of all sweet things that letters bring The sweetest still we ever miss, No letter brings that choicest thing, That undefined, girls call—a kiss. “ How soft a girl's face is pressed against your own; How slight the girl herself seems when your arms are Holding her to you with a clasp that joy makes rough Though love tries to make it gentle ! Was ever A carnation pink so sweet as her lips? TO A. LOCK OF HAIR. A long fair hair upon my coat, The memory of a head that lay Just there, and of two eyes that smote Me deep tho’ it was but play. Suppose that every manly breast Whereon that head’s reclined Had kept one hair or two at best, To bear the thing in mind— God—at the tho’t I stand appalled, Hy this time she’d be nearly bald ! At 8 they stroll neath Luna’s light. At 9 her father’s door was seen, At 10 he whispered to her good night And sadly left her at 1:15. A PARLOR DRAMA. A parlor tete, Out goes the light, A maid, a man, Their lips unite In osculation. As is the maid A button pressed A door flung wide, You know the rest, Oh consternation! The manly form Takes quick adieu. Encounters the Paternal shoe, In elevation. ('OZY CORNER. THE ORACLE. 2 5 RECIPE FOR A KISS. To one piece of (lark piazza add a little moonlight. Take for granted two people. Press in two strong ones a small white hand, sift lightly two ounces of attraction, one of romance, add a measure of folly, stir in a floating ruffle and one or two whispers. Dissolve half a dozen glances in a small quantity of hesitation. Place the kisses on a flushed cheek or two lips, flavor with a slight scream and set aside to cool. This will succeed in any climate if directions are carefully followed. f f f f It would be strange— To see the Physics class pass in order. For Marion Goff to come to school alone. To see Miss Evelyn when she is not looking toward the west side of the room. To see Orrilla Smith come to class on time. To see Arthur Webb chew gum ( ?) For the boys to keep step when the march is played. For Forbes to spell “ asked ” right. To hear Professor read Eccl. III. (V ) For Ray Wait to attend class meetings. When will “.Jim Hope see Miss Hrouwere home? Grace Haring forget Buffalo? Romeo wash the boards? Lena Curry pass Advanced English ? “ Beatrice ’ Coleman forget (‘go, ich and je ? Myra Buck learn to obey “Prof’s” rules? Carrie Wasson stop blushing? Ella Bradley finish her course in telegraphy? Marguerite Scobey forget the “ lingo?” W. H. S. get another teacher like our Patron Saint ? Thk Oraclk of 1908 be published ? rF 'F Miss Haring—( To Lembeck in the Elementary English class.) ‘ How would you punctuate the sentence, ‘Mary, a pretty girl, is walking down the street ? ’ ” Lembeck—“ I’d make a dash after Mary.” y 'F Boyibus kissibus sweet galorum, Girlibus likibus want somorum.—Ex. 26 THE ORACLE. CLASS POEM. Read, my friends, and you shall see A history of the naughty three. When all are present, there are nine. And we always have a .jolly time. Six of us live in the High School town. Three of us on the hill tops brown. Some are young and very good, I would say they all are if I could. We hold our meetings near the ’phone. Often you hear a melodious tone: “Send some candy, won’t you please V We’ll wait for it in the southern breeze.” These meetings very important are, But we never have got quite so far That all our class could in union meet, To see them together would be a treat. We worked hard on the H. S. book. And lots of trouble we all took. This shows that we are workers hard. And our knowledge have to guard. For colors, we chose white and green, The prettiest shades that e’er were seen. Our class plant is the little fern, But just what kind I cannot learn. Our motto is Gradatim bold, And when translated, I am told. It signifieth “step by step.” That’s how we all our wisdom get. We had to have a Patron Saint, Because it seemed so nice and quaint: And so, of course, we had to choose The teacher whom all hate to lose. There is no more that can be said. The rest will be learned when this book is read; And if there any mistakes should be, Go to the class of naughty three. And now we bid you all adieu. To turn our minds to something new. We hope that we will ever find Friends like our old ones, true and kind. M. A. B., 08. THE ORACLE. 27 SENIOR CLASS. MYRA A. BUCK. OU R ehanning Secretary, Miss Myra A Buck, is surely one of the most notable members of the class of 1903. Without a few words in regard to her The Oracle would be a complete failure. The first year “Ma attended the High School she was given a back seat because of good behavior, but each year since it has been a common occurrence to see her with her books under her arm searching for a seat near the Professor’s desk. In spite of all this she has proved herself to be one of the most accomplished and capable students who ever honored the High School with her presence. She never could be induced to tell what subject she liked best, but from the length of time she remained in Geometry class every one drew their own conclusions. Only those who know her can estimate the extent of her good humor and originality with which she is possessed. One day when Myra was heard loudly discussing the merits of the President, everyone thought she meant the President of the United States, but since the Senior class was organized it has come to light that there are other “Presidents.” Although Myra has not decided what profession she will follow, her friends are confident whatever it is she will be sure to attain the highest success. G. M. R., 03. £? £? £7 HELEN LOUISE CULLEN. Among our most industrious students is “Nell” Cullen. In the grades her progress was marked and rapid; she was such a student as a teacher delights to have in her classes. After entering the High School shecontinued her progress, showing a special liking for foreign languages. Miss Cullen has been faithful to her school duties, having completed her Regents’ work in January. She is a very good singer, but is reluctant to exercise her talent in the school room. After the spring vacation we were deprived of her genial company for she launched out upon the broad pathway of life. G. H., 03. £? £? £? LEG RAND W. FROST. Our treasurer and all-around man. Legrand W. Frost, joined us three years ago, after receiving an excellent preliminary education at Montour Falls. Soon after coming here he began to take an interest in athletics and for the last two years he has devoted considerable time to basketball and base ball. But he has by no means neglected his studies to indulge in these sports, for he has distinguished himself quite as much in the class room as on the diamond. His many good qualities and pleasing manners have won him many warm friends, and we ma trulv sav that the doors of success are open to him. W. B. W., 93. 28 THE ORACLE. GRACE HARING. Miss Grace Haring, one of the brightest and most studious of the class of 1903, received the first part of her education in a district school in Reading. In September, 1900, she left her country home and went to Buffalo where she spent a year in the West High School, and although she had the best time of her life while there she longed for a sight of the old district school house. But by that time she was too far advanced to attend it again, so she decided to come to Watkins, where she has been for the past two years. She deserves the congratulations of all. for competing the course in such a short time. H. L. C., ’03. £7 £? £7 GERTRUDE RICHARDSON. Without a word concerning “Gert” Richardson, the W. H. S. Oracle of 1903 would hardly be worth publishing. “Gert” is a general favorite. Her happy disposition and pleasant manners have won for her innumerable friends. In a way, she is quite remarkable for it never seemed necessary for her to study, yet she always had her lessons. Besides being a good student, she is a fine musician She has not fully decided what her future vocation will be. but thinks it “ would be lots of fun ” to be the stenographer of some wealthy bachelor, then after a time she might become his “ private secretary.” Her classmates all hope that success may attend whatever duty she undertakes. . M. A. B., ’03. £7 CORA B. PALMER. “Corv ” Belle Palmer, our prophetess, is one of the brightest, though youngest members of the class of ’03. From the beginning to the end of her school career, her ability as a student has been marked, while her genius for winning the affection and respect of all who know her is of no less prominence. A good, conscientious worker, in anything she undertakes, is “ Cory.” as well as a very jolly companion and sweet, true friend. Of her sweetness there can certainly be no question, for how could a sweet girl graduate” at “sweet sixteen” be otherwise V Firm in principle, clear in mind, loyal in heart—these characteristics must surely win her the happy and successful future which no member of our class merits more highly than she. M N. S., ’03. MARGUERITE N. SCOBEY. “Daisy” Scobey, our beloved Vice-President and Valedictorian, has always been one of the school’s brightest stars. She is a student of exceptional ability, and her labor has ever been crowned with success If there is one branch in which she is more proficient than in others, it is the art of composition; many stories testifying of her talent have already gained her an enviable reputation among her friends, who expect to see her name among the most illustrious writers of the future. She is ardently admired by her classmates and they sincerely wish her C. B. P . ’03. success. SENIOR CLASS. 3 m THE ORACLE. 29 WILLIAM B. WAIT. William B. Wait, our honored President and Salutatorian. is undoubtedly the most studious member of the class of 1903. He is young:, quiet, bashful, delicate .and of an angelic disposition. Since the meetings of Thk Oracle stall he has become a great favorite with the fairer sex, especially with our pretty little (?) Secretary. “ Did” has finished his course in the High School in the remarkably short time of three and a half years. Reasons for this are the facts that he is seldom seen on the streets after dark, keeps good company, and never chews, smokes, drinks nor swears. He is truly a typical young man. Mr. Wait is a good athlete, being the first baseman in the first W. H. S. base ball team. He has had much experience making toy boats, forts, guns, etc., which will help him in the future if he does not decide to become an electrical engineer. L. W. F., 03. £7 £? £? RAY F. WAIT. Ray Wait, or “ Breeze” as the lads call him, may be said to possess most of the qualities of a good student. For although he as played in nearly every basket ball game this year and has always been on hand for practice, he has at the same time applied himself well enough to his studies to capture one of the class honors. Under the instruction of an expert in elocution. Mr. Wait became famous as an orator in his junior year, and it was with great difficulty that he was persuaded to give up the idea of a lecture tour of the State. This year he seems disposed to give up his work along this line and devote more time to athletics. Although we hope to see him soon return to the stage, yet we should not be at all surprised to see the following item on the sporting page of the New York World: Ray Wait signs with “Champions.” W. B. W., ’03. Mr. Beers says he thinks the teachers ought not to be mentioned, so we won't report his remarks when tlie boys gave him the electric shock. The Song of the Collector—Never put off till tomorrow what can be dunned to-day. Miss G. Haring—“ I wonder if Mr. Mottram is flirting with me in earnest or just for fun.” Professor (As love takes a front seat)—“One by one the roses tall.’ Mottram—“ I would just as soon join the ball team.’ 30 THE ORACLE. ALUMNI DEPARTMENT. TH E Alumni of Watkins High School is venturing upon new water. We have left the beaten routes and, thanks to the courtesy of the Senior Class, have embarked into the world of letters. How well we are prepared for this undertaking will be shown by our success, and though many will not be asked to write, all should be willing to help this, our first attempt, by all means in their power, if it be no more than buying an Oracle. The news of his appointment came to the editor much the same as lightning out of a clear sky. He was completely dazzled by the brilliancy of the field opening before him and in an evil moment accepted the position. He was rushed for time but in his spare moments dashed off his orders or requests to his co-workers. Time passed and with the answering mails the editor awoke to the response bilities of his position. Some could not read his writing, others doubted his judgment and a few were so far away that their communications would not be entered in time. But there were many who flocke 1 to the banner of the old High School even under his poor leadership and to these is due whatever success the department may bring upon the Alumni. For several years back the Alumni of Watkins High School has been pactically dead. For a few years they held banquets, but these were abandoned as being too costly and too much work Since that time the Alumni as a body capable of doing good for the old school has seemed to disappear. A few of the members have met once a year at the Senior reception and elected officers whose duties were to give up next year to the newly elected ones. We sincerely hope that this condition of affairs is about to cease. This Alumni department of The Oracle, which we trust will be continued for years, should serve to draw together and furnish a common bond of loyalty. We hear too that our Vice-President is planning for a banquet, and should he succeed in his endeavor much would be done toward reviving the true Alumni spirit. £7 £? £? The policy of the Alumni editorial staff would be hard to describe. Time was limited and the editor was busy with university work. It being the first edition for the Alumni, he thought it advisable to let the readers know what the different members are doing, hence, the rather extended and complete Alumni notes written by different members. We should all thank our oldest grad, although she in a womanly way objects to the title, for the excellent articles sent us. If we all respond to the call from the High School as readily as she, the success of the banquet is assured. £7 £? The members of the Alumni unite in mourning the death of Mr. Schuyler Moore. As is shown in the notes, Mr. Moore was a member of the class of ’95 of W. H. S., and a junior in the Academic course at Cornell. At Cornell he was looked upon with much esteem by his instructors, and respected by all We extend our sympathy to those who were nearer and dearer to him than his fellow Alumni. THE ORACLE. 31 VIEW OF MICHIGAN. In the limited space which is given me, it would be idle to dwell at length on the courses, departments and instructors of our university, and to one who feels moved to know more, access may be had to a catalogue upon application to our Secretary. Suffice it to say that nearly four thousand students attend and that upon a campus of 400 acres there are 23 department buildings. Your attention may have been attracted to Michigan’s unparalleled record in athletics, especially in the football seasons of the past two years. Never having lost a game, the score stood last year at 550 to 0 and this year 022 to 12. Athletics, although an important feature in university life, is by no means the most important. Next to the courses taken in the university 1 would say that the social life stands second in importance. It is coming personally in contact with men and women of such varied dispositions, but as a rule with such keen intellects, and becoming acquainted with them that helps develop one in such a way that even the greenest freshman after three or four years of hard knocks comes out of the university with a polish and a character which enables him to put up a good fight for himself and his fellowmen. The fraternity life I would speak of here as a prominent factor in helping develop the best men of the university. Yet I would say here that sometimes I feel that perhaps better characters are developed when the path has not been smoothed, and where every inch of the way has to be mastered with the most strenuous effort. In speaking of the helpfulness of society life in developing the university student, I would touch for just a moment on co-education. It seems to me that a man is not fully developed until he has had those qualities of gentleness and firmness of character which come from contact with gifted and high-minded girls. Not least of our social features which will interest you is the Huron River. Of itself it is not much of a feature, yet the ardent freshman, the irreverent sophomore, the diligent junior and the reserved senior all find ample time to make it a delightful source of comfort. Here you may go and find its waters dotted with rowboats and canoes, some paddling up to drift down with the current in the moonlight, others seeking a cove where there is only room for two and their lunch. The Students’ Lecture Association secures for its lectures the leading men in our country’s different phases of life and helps to keep one in touch with the problems which confront us in our national development; while the Y. M. C. A. has tended to guide the motives and life purposes of the men it has touched along the highest lines of deepest culture tor their spirtual and moral development. At a university a man is made broadminded, learns to think and act for himself, and above all he forms friendships which mean much to him, and along with it all becomes a specialist along his chosen line of work. And to any one who is thinking of university training let me say, look up the advantages which Ann Arbor possesses and give her a fair show, yet go to a university if you can by all means, it does not matter much where 32 THE ORACLE. FUN AND WORK AT ELMIRA. One of the chief features of the recreation side of the life at Elmira College is the large number of spreads given by the girls. An Elmira girl can give a spread when she has almost nothing with which to begin. Half a cake is a good enough excuse any time to ask a dozen or more girls to her room. And a whole cake—she becomes at once the most popular girl of the day. But we cannot eat all the time, for a box filled with goodies does not come from home every day in the week. Some of our spare time is spent in athletics. Many are very enthusiastic tennis players; some have even been known to get up at six to have a game before breakfast. Basketball is even more popular than tennis. Though fewer girls are inter ested in it than were in the fall, still the members of the several class teams stick to their post faithfully. Along with the basketball the girls are practicing for field day. The sports on this occasion are very similar to those in men’s colleges; running, jumping, hurdling and throwing being the chief features of the day. After the hard work out of doors, the books and lessons for the next day call for their share of attention. Of course, the student finds the work much harder than she did in the preparatory school; still it is easier to study and the greater competition gives an impetus to her work. So the time is passed in work and fun; and before the green freshman realizes it, she has become a gay sophomore; the sophomore a jolly junior with her gown and white tasselled cap; and the junior has grown into a dignified senior and moved up to Senior Hall from which in a short year she goes out into the world, ever loyal to her Alma Mater. £7 £7 7 SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY. Syracuse is the coining university of New York State. No other has made such rapid progress against such adverse conditions. No one dared to hope thirty-two years ago when 41 students assembled to take a liberal arts course that it would be able to count its students in thousands in less than one-third of a century. To day it has five colleges with a total of twelve degrees and three certificates which can be granted in different courses, and has enrolled upon its books the names of 2,000 students, a great proportion of whom are young ladies. Its students represent 20 states and the following countries send one or more: Canada, Cuba, England, Germany, India. Japan. Mexico, Porto Rico, St. Domingo. In athletics, Syracuse is at present the rising star and all large col leges have their eyes on her, wondering what she will do next. A request is all that is needed to give her a game or a meet with the large universities. Yale said after the foot ball game last fall which was near the end of the season: “It was the hardest game played so far this season.” Our present baseball team has almost a perfect record. Our crew, although in her infancy, finished far from the last. Our track team at THE ORACLE. 33 the Intercollegiate Meet in New York last year was able to run up more scores than Columbia and Cornell added together. From an educational standpoint she ranks near the top. Her gradu ates are sought after and often are hired before they have received their diplomas. Her medical department is known the country over as a standard. Taking the state examinations to measure by, only two others are her equal, Yale and Northwestern of Chicago, and from the time she has held this record there are no close competitors. If there are any who desire an education and can say that they are not able to pay tuition the faculty will gladly furnish the desired scholarship and then they will sing with the thousands who are now fil'ed with the love of their Alma Mater, ‘Where the vale of Onondaga meets the eastern sky, Proudly stands our Alma Mater on her hillgtop high.” £7 CORNELL. Cornell. I yell. yell. yell. Cornell. At the request of ye Alumni editor, we once more contribute a few lines to the pages of The Oracle. At his suggestion we shall confine ourselves to a few remarks concerning Cornell University. In writing of Cornell at this season of the year, one is puzzled whether to devote his space to Athletics, Spring Day, the Junior Smoker, the Freshman Banquet or the beauties of the Campus. One might fill an Oracle with any one of these subjects. If in speaking of athletics he says more about the track team, rowing and Reget ta Day. and less about base ball, he is to be pardoned. If, in writing of Spring Day, hedevotes too much attention to the“mouche-m niche’’and too little to the parachute juinp.it is because the San Francisco wonder has impressed him. Of the story of the freshman banquet, there are two sides. The Sophomores claim that their part of the affair was a success; the Freshmen claim that the banquet has never been surpassed. Evidently there was some success somewhere. Of the beauties of the Campus, it is needless to speak to the people of Watkins. The view from your cemetery observatory is not surpassed here, but it seems to be fully equaled. We command a far reaching view down the lake and up the valley; the hills rising high beyond the city are similar to those in Watkins But the Campus itself with its many avenues lined with large trees, with its beds of lloweis and shrubberry, and great stone buildings covered with ivy. is indeed beautiful It must be seen to be appreciated. To sav that Cornell students have to study is a mild statement. President Schurman delights in saying this is the hardest working community in the United States. This statement your Alumni editor refuses to deny. Returning from the Library at the hour when the ghosts shake the dust from their bones, one always sees a great number of students burning the midnight oil. This is necessitated by the harrow 34 THE ORACLE. ing prospect of an “eight o’clock.’’ But it is not to be supposed that life here is all work. Comedians also have their hours of play. This comes in various ways. As we write, sitting in the marble seat in the Library entrance, we can see dignified seniors spinning tops, playing marbles, and even rolling hoops—for this is Senior Day, and to-morrow they assume the cap and gown. Last Friday xvtis Spring Day. when numerous circus tents sprang up on the Campus, and the students disguised as hawkers, peddled their squawkers and toy-ballons, giving no change. In this way we make merry; we attend the “Smokers;” we view the games; and on the delightful evenings we gather in groups on the green grass and sing the evening song, and the Alma Mater, of whose verses we never get tired. And with mighty voices ring out the words, “ Hail to thee, our Alma Mater, Hail, all hail, Cornell!” ALUMNI NOTES. £? £7 £? OFFICERS. George L. Buck, - President. J. Cameron Argetsixgkr, - - - Vice-President. Miss Grace White, - - - Secretary. Miss Helen White, ... Treasurer. The initial commencement of Watkins High School was in 83, the class consisting of but one member. Mary M. Freer, now Mrs. Charles Searles, of Cripple Creek, Colo. The Class of ’84 comprised four members, Gertrude M. Martin, afterwards Mrs. C. McCarthy, of Batavia, since deceased; Lulie O. Martin, now Mrs. Loel Smith of Watkins; S. Helen Cass, now Mrs Milo Shepard, of Geneva, and Sara H. Wilmot, who has charge of the Western Union Telegraph office at Watkins. Class of 85—Nellie J. Hennesey, of Watkins, and Julia T. Donovan, now Mrs. Tierney, of Rochester. The Class of ’86 was larger and has scattered widely. Alcora S. Crane (Mrs. Lathrop) resides in the State of Washington. Bessie B. Johnson (Mrs. D. G. Thompson), in Trinidad, Colo. Lola B Thomas (Mrs. Wm. Corwin,) in Newark, N. J. Katharine Whippy is teaching in New Jersey. Julia A Roe (Mrs. Lansing Davis), lives in Guatemala, C. A. One member of the class, Mary A. Donovan, died soon after graduating. Class of ’87 comprised four girls and two boys, the first young men to graduate from our school. Adella Dodson (Mrs. Win. Latimer), of Wolcott, N. Y.; Catharine Phinney (Mrs. Mott Taylor), of Watkins; Helena H. Haight, of Watkins; Sarah Smith, of New York City; Herbert A. THE ORACLE. 35 Morgan, of Auburn. N. Y., and Edward A. Thompson, of Cleveland, Ohio. Class of’88. Daniel VanDuzer wandered to the far west, where he now holds the responsible and lucrative position of school commissioner in Idaho. Robert Pellet, after a course at Cornell law school, passed several years in the practice of law in Watkins, but is now connected with the bridge and steel works at Economy, Pa. Daniel S. Tuttle, lawyer, died in August. 1899. Edward J. McCaul was long a valued employee in the office of the Fall Rrook R. R. Co., at Corning. Death ended his career on March 17, 1900. Anna K. Donovan, after due consideration, became Mrs. John Sullivan and still resides in Watkins. Mary N. Fitzgerald’ having graduated at Gfeneseo Normal College, accepted a position in Watkins High School, where she is still one of the efficient teachers. Edith C. Johnson, now Mrs. Jule Stein, is enjoying life in the metropolis. A number of years ago, Ella P. Beckwith became Mrs. Wm. Wake-man of Wedgwood. Class of 89. Katharine Maloney, on September 30,1901, was married to Mr. Thomas McKenna, of Watkins. Lusena Smith, as was natural, grew tired of her name, so changed it to Mrs. Howard Peck, but her place of residence remains the same. William W. Smith, who long ago renounced single blessedness, is still associated with the hardware firm of L. H. Durland, Son Co. Class of ’90. Of the four members of 1890, but one resides in Watkins, that member being Helen E. Freer, now Mrs. N. C. Crofut. Sarah C. Pope, after completing her course at Elmira College, spent a year in Germany in the study of the language. On her return she was married to Prof. A. C. McLachlan, of Jamaica, L. 1. Jane Hill, now Mrs. O. M. Palmer, resides in Montclair. N. J. Lena S. Van Derlip, after a year spent at Albany Normal College, and several succeeding years as Regents examiner, became Mrs. W H. Houston, now of Allentown, Pa. Class of ’91. Carrie May Hawes is Mrs. H. O. Bennett, of Penn Yan, N. Y. Mariana McCaul still makes her home in Watkins. George R. Smith is married and living at Burdett, N. r. Daisy C. A an Derlip has spent much of the time since graduation as a teacher in the Watkins High School. Class of '92. Delia Crum, desirous of having a historical name, finally changed her name to Mrs. John Brown, of Long Branch, N. J. Lida M Haring, after her marriage to Mr. Wm. Hi'lerman, of Reading Center, did not at once desert the profession of teaching. Frances G. Shulen-burg, after a successful experience as teacher in Watkins High School, abandoned her career and was married to Mr. Charles Rogers, of Watkins. Margaret Pellet, shortly after completing her course at Vassar College, was married to Mrs Roswell Nichols, a lawyer in New ork city. Of the Class of ’93. Miss Jessie Haring, who is connected with the Watkins Telephone Company, is the only representative, her fellow graduate, Miss Rose Rooney, having died in August, 1899. The graduates in ’94 seem to have been inspired with the spirit of 36 THE ORACLE. matrimony—three of the four young ladies now subscribe themselves as Mesdames—Fannie Budd Cole, of Watkins, Anna Ely Huston, of Hector, and Allie Shew man Clark, of Elmira, and it is rather audibly whispered that Miss Elizabeth Russell, who is a teacher of modern languages at Plattsburgh Normal, is soon to follow in the footsteps of her colleagues. George L. Buck, the valedictorian of the class, after graduating at Colgate, was vice-principal of Watkins High School for a time. He now holds a lucrative position with Silver, Burdett Co., of Chicago. Class of ’95 June, ’95, gave W. H. S. the largest class vet graduated. Miss Jessie Norton, after graduating from Albany Normal, became a training class teacher, her sister Helen not having finished her normal course because of ill health. Miss Elizabeth Oliver is employed at the Glen Springs in Watkins. Miss Jane Hurd is studying music in New York city and holds a position of contralto in one of the large churches there. Miss Minnie Gardner, of Cortland Normal, is teaching in Hector. N. Y. Miss Esther Wait after graduating spent two years at Wells College. Miss Louise Gillett is book-keeper and Secretary of the Sav� e. Waverly and Athens Gas Company. Miss Helen Johnson is teaching at Watkins High School. Of the boys of ’95 two are married, Alexander Frost, who is with the Sorosis Shoe Company, of Chicago, and Glenn Frost, who holds a position with the Bureau of Immigration on Ellis Island. William Pellet, a Cornell man. is practicing law in New York city. The ranks of ’95 were broken by the death of Schuyler Moore at Cornell, during the typhoid fever epidemic of this year. Class of ’96. Harry C. Buck, who graduates from Colgate in June, expects to teach. Miss Anna M. Cullen is teaching in the rural schools of the county. Miss Anna B. Fitzgerald, a graduate of an Elmira business college, is a stenographer in Watkins. Miss Carolyn S. Barnes spent a year after graduation at St. Agnes school, Albany. Miss May C. Scobey taught a short time, and then married Frank Frost, of Watkins. Of the Class of ’97. Miss Louise Weller is book-keeper with L. H. Borland, Son Co., of Watkins. Her sister Laura is in attendance at Syracuse University. The remaining member. Miss Ada Woodward, is at the home of her father, C. M. Woodward, Esq., of Watkins. Class of ’98. Jennie M. Haring at the time of her graduation also completed a course in the Teachers’ Training Class. After having taught for some time in the country schools, she became a member of the faculty of Watkins High School. Frances M. Considine after graduation was for some time bookkeeper in her uncle’s place of business, and now occupies a responsible position with the Watkins Telephone Co. Helen G. Edgett, who also while in the High School took the Training Class course, has since graduating been teaching in the public schools of Schuyler county. Nellie L. Frost, after leaving Watkins High School, graduated in the department of music at Cook Academy, and is now taking a post graduate course at that school. Lelia M. Forbes after graduating has completed a course in music at Cook Academy, and also pursued a course of study at the Rochester Business Institute. Nellie C. THE ORACLE. 37 Fitzgerald after leaving the Watkins High School has graduated from tlie Geneseo Normal School, and now occupies a responsible position as teacher in the Gloversville schools. Agnes P. Kennedy, while taking the regular course at the High School also took the training class work, and has since been very successfully teaching in her home county. Jennie E. Mosher, also a graduate of the training class, has been since her graduation, and now is, a very successful teacher in the public schools. Elizabeth Spencer, also a training class graduate, for a time followed her vocation of teaching, but owing to the necessity of her being at home, has been for a time forced to give up her work Lois Spencer soon after her graduation died, leaving her classmates and friends to mourn the loss of one so dear to them. Grace L. White at the time of graduating also completed the course in the State training class for teachers, and after successfully teaching in the common schools for some time, was tendered a position as instructor in the Watkins High School. With this commencement she completes her third year there with unqualified success. Class of 1899. Nellie J. Berry after graduating accepted a position with the dry goods firm of T. H. Abbey Co., which said position she still holds. Ellen P. Cogswell, after graduating took a full course at the Geneseo Normal, and is now teaching in the Gloversville schools. Helen B. Hope has, since graduating, been taking an eclectic course of study, and is at home in Watkins. Schuyler Paterson commenced the study of medicine, but owing to ill health, was obliged to leave school, and is now in California for his health. He is interested in the manufacture of electrical supplies. George M. Velie graduated from the Law Department of Union University, was admitted to the bar, and is now the junior member of the law firm of Nye Velie at Watkins. Helen G. White after graduating took a course in the department of music at Cook Academy. Miss White has been very successful in giving instruction in music, Latin and German to private students. Frances K. Witt graduated from the training class department at the same time she completed her literary course. Since graduating she has been engaged in teaching in various parts of the state. Class of 1900. Arthur K. Bennett, upon his graduation, commenced a course of study in the department of medicine in the University of Michigan We believe now he is in his junior year. Elizabeth Brown soon after leaving Watkins High School entered theState Normal College at Albany, graduating from that place this year. She has already commenced teaching and is meeting with deserved success. Chester R. Brown commenced the study of medicine, was obliged to give up the work on account of ill health, and is now on a trip abroad with a gentleman, Mr. Brown acting as his companion. Louise Cullen after graduating went to Emporia, Kansas, and commenced the course offered at the State Normal School at Emporia Miss Cullen graduates from that place this year. Bessie T. Haughey at the time of graduating completed the training class course, and fora short time taught at the WalKins High 38 THE ORACLE. School. Announcement was recently made of her marriage to James Burch of this village. John S Hurd for a time remained in Watkins. In 1902 he went to Cleveland where he is now successfully engaged in the lumber business. Grace Howard, after taking the training class course, has been engaged in teaching in the different schools of the county. Fred A. Johnson soon after leaving the High School went to New York city where now he is holding a position of trust in a large banking house. Nettie J. Matthews, since graduating, has been following her vocation as teacher, and has met with deserved success. Ruth Pang-born, for a time after graduating taught school, but is now married (Mrs. E. VanDeventer) and resides at Campbell. N. Y. Class of 1901. J. Cameron Artensinger, (Cornell). Harvey E. Brad ley, (Syracuse University.) Mary E. Bradley, (Watkins). Frederick B. Bond, (Buffalo Medical College). Charles H. Erway, (Syracuse University). Harry Fink, (Elmira). Robinson V. Frost, (Watkins). Helen M. Hurd, (Watkins). James A. Hope, (Watkins). Ella M. Smith. (Townsend). William T Taylor, (Watkins). Class of 1902. Florence S. Barnes. (Elmira College). Jennie M. Ellison, (Watkins). Nina M. Gaining, (Elmira College).) Edna E. Hawes, (Watkins). Marianna F. Rooney. (Elmira Business College). Minnie Rhodes. (Moreland). Charles E. Smith, (Cook Academy). Frederick E. Sherman. (Watkins). Seth W. Webb, (Cornell). Percy W. White, (Watkins). THE FIRST COMMENCEMENT. £7 £7 £7 OV E R the drift of years comes a voice to me from the past. A voice that wakes all the old memories of girlhood. It is the voice of my Alma Mater, and it speaks in no uncertain tones. It comes with the breath of a long gone June; with the fragrance of summer roses, with the blue of summer skies, with the inspirations and intoxications of days when youth and ambition, and roseate dreams made life a holiday, and the future a fairy vista, spanned by a rainbow of glorious promise. I was surprised a few days ago to receive a communication from the Alumni editor asking me to write something concerning the first commencement of Watkins High School, then the Watkins Academy. The request was made in deference to me as the “oldest member’ of the Alumni of that institution. I confess to being gratified by the distinction thus conferred upon me, but alas ! Every joy has its bitterness, there is a worm in the heart of every rose. I, who am considered a rather youthful matron in my social set, was named with a sort of reverence for the antique, the oldest alumnus of Watkins. Shades of departed youth! Ghosts of juvenile days that were but are not. Instinctively I went to the mirror to look for gray hairs and wrinkles. Whether or not I found them-----Guess. The first commencement! Ah. 1 remember. The sky was bright and THE ORACLE. 39 the air was balm, and our hearts were light on that thirteenth (lay of June, 1883. If I catch rightly the key note of that day, a lot of us felt that Watkins Academy was the pivot upon which the world turned round and that the eyes of Christendom were upon us. It is not so long ago speaking from a historical standpoint and having in mind Egyptology and the Pyramids, hut I have lived long enough to know that only a small fraction of the civilized world was conscious of the existence of Watkins Academy on that memorable Commencement Day. To refresh my memory I turn to a report of the occasion clipped from one of the local newspapers. How this ancient memorial has been preserved, amid all my wanderings, and the various calamities that have at divers times played havoc with my effects is a mystery. From its rather florid and typographically eccentric story, I gather that on Wednesday at 2 p. m., June 13th, 1883, a large and interested audience convened in the old academy building to hear and see the commencement exercises. Being the only graduate, I naturally came off with the honors. The program from the paper runs as follows: Prayer by Rev. Win. Sharp: vocal solo, Drifting of the Tide, Miss Julia Roe; piano solo by Miss Jennie Beach; piano solo, Miss EllaShuhnan; recitation, Mark Anthony’s oration over the dead body of Caesar, John L Cass; A Divided Republic, Harry O. Bennett ; A Tribute to Washington. W. F. White; An original poem, J. Maud Coats; essay, Policy of England towards Ireland, Mary M. Freer. Modesty prevents me from quoting the report farther, as the writer drifts into a flowery eulogy on the attainments and personal accomplishments of the solitary candidate for graduating honors. As subsequent years have not entirely justified his verdict of transcendent genius. it is best left to the imaginations of my successors in school honors. The Rev. Mr Meigs presented me with my diploma, signed by James Gray, president of the Board of Education, and Prof. S. S. Johnson principal of the school. At this distant day I can not say whether or not the subject matter of my essay did justice to the grandiloquence of its title. I suppose I did the best I could. Why I selected that subject has always been an unanswerable question to niv mind. I probably knew as little about it as any I could have hit upon. That a girl graduate in white dress and fluttering ribbons should boldly step into the discussion of a subject that had puzzled diplomats and statesmen for a century may illustrate the old proverb that fools rush in where angels fear to tread. How fair that school life looks across the stretch of time. The common doings of the day even were saved from being prosaic by the glamour of fancy and feeling, and the scantity of honest endeavor o eI all. And as I think upon those days, faintly, like the refrain of distant music come the voices of my old time companions, the laugh of glee, the romping on the campus, the singing in the chapel, the school bell that summoned us to study. All the old environment quivers around me. I see 40 THE ORACLE. no longer the distant ramparts of the snow slashed mountains nor the foot hills sweeping up to their eternal domes. But I am once more a girl among my companions at the old Watkins High School, where first I learned to hope and aspire and strive. The atmosphere of those days of learning has ever been around and about me, to encourage to fresh effort and to preserve my ideals amid the struggle of life and the rush of events. Mary Frkkr Skarlks, Cripple Creek. Colorado. 'F FROM AN ALUMNUS. £? £? DEAR MR. EDITOR:—Paradoxical as it may seem, the summons to contribute a word to the “ Alumni Notes” has given rise to both discomfort and pleasure. It is certainly discomforting to be dragged from the inexacting obscurity into which I had settled, and subjected to that critical gaze always accorded editorial prominence; but to feel the pulse of organization, the spirit of progress and the final realizations of purpose, all of which become manifest when we see appearing yearly in our midst this publication which can well lay claim to our universal pride, it is most gratifying. And it is only meet that we take advantage of any opportunity to express our appreciation to recent generations for accomplishing a thing, which not so many years ago would have impressed a senior class as well-nigh impossible. It is not difficult for the writer to call to mind the time, when to financier a scheme for obtaining a dollar and a quarter baseball was considered no mean task. It was a procedure which consisted of drafting impressive articles of incorporation for a baseball team, subscribing a capital stock of eighty or ninety cents, collecting paid up capital of fifty cents, and floating on the top of Waugh’s soda water fountain a bond issue which never assumed a more substantial form than airy promises to pay the remaining seventy-five. I merely mention this instance in the way of comparison. Now even the young ladies bring back laurels with their finely equipped athletic teams, and with perfect self-confidence a representative body of students enter fearlessly into a publishing enter prise, where not only financial responsibility and promotive genius are requisite, but where political sagacity has so far manifested itself as to secure an appropriation of note from a conservative Board of Education which is just recovering from a severe attack of bituminous coal bills. These are no uncertain evidences of growth. They disclose discipline inefficiency of organization, possessing the power of which men make themselves felt in the world, when without any such resource they be come easily replaced mechanisms in the dull monotony of a humdrum existence. They go to show that the members of present classes are not content to stop with the accomplishments of their predecessors, but forge on to work out other problems of increasing moment, and so they THE ORACLE. 41 evince a progressive energy in harmony with that spirit of national aggression which, within the last decade, has made the public judgment of this country the most respected precedent in the tribunal of the nations of the world. The very appearance of “The Oracle” itself is the realization of a well defined purpose. It is a bringing of things to pass, with the power of which we have one of the most vital equipments of life’s success, without the power of which we are mere derelicts on a fretful sea of worldly ambitions. Each year sees changes in our Alma Mater. New faces come and go. New teachers from time to time take the places of those who were our former guides. The old wooden building has given place to a beautiful structure of brick. But associated with all these ephemeral scenes, there remains another source of genuine enjoyment in the recollections of our High School days. I voice the mind of every alumnus when I say it is an unalloyed pleasure to be able to go back and still be refreshed with the same genial personality and ever living interest of the man who for over a quarter of a century has been at the helm. With the memory of most pleasant associations of the past; with the evidence of these gratifying achievements of the present, and with the assurance of a future of increasing promise, it is with legitimate pride and unbounded satisfaction that we are permitted to speak as “Alumni” of Watkins High School.