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W~bst~r [it~rary SO\i~ty. EVELOPMENT is the aim of all training and the sole reward of all intel- lectual labor, and is only secured by constant and continued obedience to D the laws of duty. That Webster Literary Society has done the necessary work to reach this goal during the past scholastic year is shown by the marked improvement of its members in literary lines. Both the faithful per- formance of duty and the manifestation of a lively interest in the Society's welfare have been the secret of its success. The mern bers started in at the beginning of the year greatly encouraged by the success which had crowned our contestants for the four preceding years. And by going earnestly to work and infusing new life into the meetings we presently succeeded in having our ranks swelled by an addition of nineteen new mem- bers. These men soon proved to be valuable acquisitions to our Society, enter- ing upon the work with a zeal surpassing, if possible, that of the old members. Our meetings have all been interesting and profitable, both to the hearers and to those who participated in the programs. The debates as a rule have been of a sober character, though not infrequently the humorist has been given an oppor- tunity of expressing himself upon questions suited to his profession. Those mem- bers to whom duties have been assigned have performed them with a creditable zeal, especially the debates. These debates have always been both ably and seriously rendered and have shown careful preparation on the part of the debaters. Throughout the year our reading table has been kept supplied with the Review of Rcincios, Literary Digest, Outing, JVI cClzl1'c's and other standard periodi- cals, and the members have taken profitable advantage of this excellent literature. Constant use has also been made of our large library. Our joint anniversary with the Browning Literary Society this year was, owing to some disagreement, not held until the seventh of April. The anniver- sary oration on "Did the Confederate Soldier Die in Vain?" was delivered in a forcible and impressive manner. The operetta and the drama, entitled "Nevada," were then rendered. And if the opinion of the public is to be trusted, surely Web- 116