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Contents vii

CHAPTER 6 Securing Services  138

Starting a Hardened System   140
Service Management  145
SysV Init  146
Upstart  151
Systemd  152
Hardening Services  154
Using Mandatory Access Controls   157
Security Enhanced Linux   157
AppArmor  159
Servers Versus Desktops  160
Protecting Against Development Tools   161
CHAPTER SUMMARY  163
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   164
CHAPTER 6 ASSESSMENT  164

CHAPTER 7 Networks, Firewalls, and More   166

Services on Every TCP/IP Port   167
Protocols and Numbers in /etc/services   168
Protection by the Protocol and Number   168
Obscurity and the Open Port Problem   169
Obscure Ports  169
Opening Obscure Open Ports   169
Obscurity by Other Means   170
Protect with TCP Wrapper   171
What Services Are TCP Wrapped?   171
Configure TCP Wrapper Protection   171
Packet-Filtering Firewalls  173
Basic Firewall Commands   174
Firewalld  183
A Firewall for the Demilitarized Zone   185
A Firewall for the Internal Network   187
Alternate Attack Vectors   187
Attacks Through Nonstandard Connections   188
Attacks on Scheduling Services   189
Wireless-Network Issues  191
Linux and Wireless Hardware   191
Encrypting Wireless Networks  191
Bluetooth Connections  192
viii    Contents

Security Enhanced Linux   193

The Power of SELinux   194
Basic SELinux Configuration   194
Configuration from the Command Line   194
The SELinux Administration Tool   196
The SELinux Troubleshooter  197
SELinux Boolean Settings   197
Setting Up AppArmor Profiles   202
Basic AppArmor Configuration  202
AppArmor Configuration Files   202
AppArmor Profiles  203
AppArmor Access Modes  204
Sample AppArmor Profiles  204
AppArmor Configuration and Management Commands   204
An AppArmor Configuration Tool   206
Best Practices: Networks, Firewalls, and TCP/IP Communications   206
CHAPTER SUMMARY  208
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   208
CHAPTER 7 ASSESSMENT  209

CHAPTER 8 Networked Filesystems and Remote Access   210

Basic Principles for Systems with Shared Networking Services   211
Configure an NTP Server   212
Install and Configure a Kerberos Server   212
Basic Kerberos Configuration   213
Additional Kerberos Configuration Options   215
Securing NFS as If It Were Local   216
Configure NFS Kerberos Tickets   216
Configure NFS Shares for Kerberos   216
Keeping vsftp Very Secure   217
Configuration Options for vsftp   217
Additional vsftp Configuration Files   219
Linux as a More Secure Windows Server   219
Samba Global Options   220
Samba as a Primary Domain Controller   224
Making Sure SSH Stays Secure   225
The Secure Shell Server    225
The Secure Shell Client   228
Create a Secure Shell Passphrase   228
Contents ix

Basic Principles of Encryption on Networks   230

Host-to-Host IPSec on Red Hat   231
Host-to-Host IPSec on Ubuntu   231
Network-to-Network IPSec on Red Hat   233
Network-to-Network IPSec on Ubuntu   233
Helping Users Who Must Use Telnet   233
Persuade Users to Convert to SSH   234
Install More Secure Telnet Servers and Clients   235
Securing Modem Connections   235
The Basics of RADIUS   236
RADIUS Configuration Files   236
Moving Away from Cleartext Access   236
The Simple rsync Solution  238
E-mail Clients  238
Best Practices: Networked Filesystems and Remote Access   239
CHAPTER SUMMARY  241
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   241
CHAPTER 8 ASSESSMENT  242

CHAPTER 9 Networked Application Security  243

Options for Secure Web Sites with Apache   244
The LAMP Stack   245
Apache Modules  247
Security-Related Apache Directives  248
Configure Protection on a Web Site   251
Configure a Secure Web site   252
Configure a Certificate Authority   252
mod_security  254
Working with Squid   255
Basic Squid Configuration   256
Security-Related Squid Directives   257
Limit Remote Access with Squid   258
Protecting DNS Services with BIND   258
The Basics of DNS on the Internet   258
DNS Network Configuration   259
Secure BIND Configuration   259
A BIND Database   261
DNS Targets to Protect   261
Domain Name System Security Extensions   261
x    Contents

Mail Transfer Agents   263

Open Source sendmail   263
The Postfix Alternative  266
Dovecot for POP and IMAP   267
More E-mail Services   268
Using Asterisk  268
Basic Asterisk Configuration  269
Security Risks with Asterisk   269
Limiting Printers  270
Printer Administrators  271
Shared Printers  271
Remote Administration  271
The CUPS Administrative Tool   272
Protecting Time Services  273
Obscuring Local and Network Services   273
Best Practices: Networked Application Security   274
CHAPTER SUMMARY  275
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   276
CHAPTER 9 ASSESSMENT  276

CHAPTER 10 Kernel Security Risk Mitigation   278

Distribution-Specific Functional Kernels   279
Kernels by Architecture  280
Kernels for Different Functions   281
The Stock Kernel   282
Kernel Numbering Systems   283
Production Releases and More   283
Download the Stock Kernel   284
Stock Kernel Patches and Upgrades   284
Managing Security and Kernel Updates   285
Stock Kernel Security Issues   285
Distribution-Specific Kernel Security Issues   286
Installing an Updated Kernel   286
Development Software for Custom Kernels   287
Red Hat Kernel Development Software   287
Ubuntu Kernel Development Software   288
Kernel-Development Tools  288
Before Customizing a Kernel   289
Start the Kernel Customization Process   289
Kernel Configuration Options   291
Contents xi

Building Your Own Secure Kernel   299

Download Kernel Source Code   300
Download Ubuntu Kernel Source Code   300
Download Red Hat Kernel Source Code   300
Install Required Development Tools   301
Navigate to the Directory with the Source Code   301
Compile a Kernel on Ubuntu Systems   302
Compile a Kernel on Red Hat Systems   302
Compile a Stock Kernel   302
Install the New Kernel and More   303
Check the Boot Loader   303
Test the Result   303
Increasing Security Using Kernels and the /proc/ Filesystem   304
Don’t Reply to Broadcasts   304
Protect from Bad ICMP Messages   305
Protect from SYN Floods   305
Activate Reverse Path Filtering   305
Close Access to Routing Tables   306
Avoid Source Routing   306
Don’t Pass Traffic Between Networks   307
Log Spoofed, Source-Routed, and Redirected Packets   307
Best Practices: Kernel Security Risk Mitigation   307
CHAPTER SUMMARY  309
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   309
CHAPTER 10 ASSESSMENT  309

PART THREE Building a Layered Linux Security Strategy   311

CHAPTER 11 Managing Security Alerts and Updates   312

Keeping Up with Distribution Security   313
Red Hat Alerts  314
Red Hat Enterprise Linux   314
CentOS Linux  314
Fedora Core Linux   315
Ubuntu Alerts  315
Keeping Up with Application Security   316
The OpenOffice.org Suite   317
Web Browsers  317
Adobe Applications  318
Service Applications  318
xii    Contents

Antivirus Options for Linux Systems   320

The Clam AntiVirus System   321
AVG Antivirus  322
The Kaspersky Antivirus Alternative   322
SpamAssassin  322
Detecting Other Malware   323
Using Bug Reports   323
Ubuntu’s Launchpad  324
Red Hat’s Bugzilla   325
Application-Specific Bug Reports   325
Security in an Open Source World   327
The Institute for Security and Open Methodologies   328
The National Security Agency   328
The Free Software Foundation   328
User Procedures  329
Deciding Between Automated Updates or Analyzed Alerts   329
Do You Trust Your Distribution?    330
Do You Trust Application Developers?   330
Do You Trust Service Developers?   330
Linux Patch Management   331
Standard yum Updates  332
Updates on Fedora   332
Updates on Red Hat Enterprise Linux   333
Standard apt-* Updates  333
Options for Update Managers   335
Configuring Automated Updates  335
Automatic Red Hat Updates   337
Pushing or Pulling Updates   338
Local or Remote Repositories   338
Configuring a Local Repository   338
Commercial Update Managers   339
The Red Hat Network   340
Canonical Landscape  341
Novell’s ZENworks  341
Open Source Update Managers   342
Various apt-* Commands  342
Various yum commands  343
Red Hat Spacewalk   345
Best Practices: Security Operations Management   345
CHAPTER SUMMARY  346
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   347
CHAPTER 11 ASSESSMENT  347
Contents xiii

CHAPTER 12 Building and Maintaining a Security Baseline   349

Configuring a Simple Baseline   350
A Minimal Red Hat Baseline   351
A Minimal Ubuntu Baseline   353
Read-Only or Live Bootable Operating Systems   354
Appropriate Read-Only Filesystems   355
Live CDs and DVDs   356
Keeping the Baseline Up to Date   356
A Gold Baseline   357
Baseline Backups  359
Monitoring Local Logs   359
The System and Kernel Log Services   359
Logs from Individual Services   363
Consolidating and Securing Remote Logs   365
Default rsyslog Configuration   365
The Standard rsyslog Configuration File   365
Identifying a Baseline System State   368
Collect a List of Packages   368
Compare Files, Permissions, and Ownership   369
Define the Baseline Network Configuration   370
Collect Runtime Information   370
Checking for Changes with Integrity Scanners   371
Tripwire  371
Advanced Intrusion Detection Environment   372
Best Practices: Building and Maintaining a Secure Baseline   373
CHAPTER SUMMARY  374
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   374
CHAPTER 12 ASSESSMENT  374

CHAPTER 13 Testing and Reporting   376

Testing Every Component of a Layered Defense   377
Testing a Firewall   377
Testing Various Services  378
Testing Passwords  381
Testing Mandatory Access Control Systems   382
Checking for Open Network Ports   382
The telnet Command  382
The netstat Command  383
The lsof Command  386
The nmap Command  387
xiv      Contents

Running Integrity Checks of Installed Files and Executables   392

Verifying a Package   393
Performing a Tripwire Check   394
Testing with the Advanced Intrusion Detection Environment   395
Ensuring that Security Does Not Prevent Legitimate Access   398
Reasonable Password Policies   398
Allowing Access from Legitimate Systems   401
Monitoring Virtualized Hardware  401
Virtual Machine Hardware   402
Virtual Machine Options   402
Monitoring the Kernel-Based Virtual Machine (KVM)   403
Standard Open Source Security-Testing Tools   404
Snort  405
Netcat and the nc Command  407
Vulnerability Scanners for Linux   408
Nessus  408
OpenVAS  410
Nexpose  410
Where to Install Security-Testing Tools   412
Hint: Not Where Attackers Can Use Them Against You   412
Some Tools Are Already Available on Live CDs   413
Best Practices: Testing and Reporting   415
CHAPTER SUMMARY  416
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   416
CHAPTER 13 ASSESSMENT  417

CHAPTER 14 Detecting and Responding to Security Breaches   418

Performing Regular Performance Audits   419
The Basic Tools: ps and top 420
The System Status Package   421
For Additional Analysis   421
Making Sure Users Stay Within Secure Limits   422
Appropriate Policies  423
Education  423
User Installation of Problematic Services   424
Logging Access into the Network   424
Identifying Users Who Have Logged In   424
System Authentication Logs  425
Monitoring Account Behavior for Security Issues   426
Downloaded Packages and Source Code   426
Executable Files  426
Contents xv

Creating an Incident Response Plan   427

Increased Vigilance  428
Should You Leave the System On?   428
Acquiring the Memory Contents   429
Having Live Linux CDs Ready for Forensics Purposes   433
Helix Live Response   433
SANS Investigative Forensics Toolkit   435
Digital Evidence and Forensics Toolkit   435
Build Your Own Media   435
Forensic Live Media   436
When You Put Your Plan into Action   437
Confirming the Breach   437
Identifying Compromised Systems   438
Having Replacement Systems in Place   438
Secure Backup and Recovery Tools   439
Disk Images for Later Investigation   439
The rsync Command  440
Mount Encrypted Filesystems   440
The Right Way to Save Compromised Data as Evidence   441
Basic Principles for Evidence   441
Remembering the Volatile Data   442
Preserving the Hard Disks   442
Disaster Recovery from a Security Breach   442
Determining What Happened  443
Prevention  443
Replacement  443
How and When to Share with the Open Source Community   444
If the Security Issue Is Known…   444
If the Security Issue Has Not Been Reported…   444
Best Practices: Security Breach Detection and Response   445
CHAPTER SUMMARY  446
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   446
CHAPTER 14 ASSESSMENT  447

CHAPTER 15 Best Practices and Emerging Technologies   448

Maintaining a Gold Baseline   449
Monitoring Security Reports   450
Working Through Updates  450
Recalibrating System Integrity   450
Ensuring Availability with Redundancy   451
A Gold Physical Baseline   451
A Gold Virtual Baseline Host   451
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xvi    Contents

Identifying Your Support Options   453

Red Hat Support Options   454
Canonical Support Options   455
Open Source Community Support   455
Checking Compliance with Security Policies   456
User Security  456
Administrator Security  456
Keeping the Linux Operating System Up to Date   457
Baseline Updates  457
Functional Bugs  458
New Releases  458
Keeping Distribution-Related Applications Up to Date   459
Server Applications  459
Desktop Applications  461
Managing Third-Party Applications   461
Licensing Issues  461
Support Issues  462
Sharing Problems and Solutions with the Community   462
Which Community?    462
Sharing with Developers   463
Sharing on Mailing Lists   464
Testing New Components Before Putting Them into Production   464
Testing Updates  465
Documenting Results  465
Beta Testing  466
Keeping Up with Security on Your Systems   466
A New Firewall Command   466
More Mandatory Access Controls   466
Penetration-Testing Tools  467
Single Sign-On  468
Incident Response  468
CHAPTER SUMMARY  469
KEY CONCEPTS AND TERMS   470
CHAPTER 15 ASSESSMENT  470

APPENDIX A Answer Key  471

APPENDIX B Standard Acronyms  473
Glossary of Key Terms   477
References  491
Index  497
 To my beautiful wife, Donna,
who has made life worth living again
—Michael Jang

To those who have made me who I am today:

Berkeley Breathed and Hunter S. Thompson
—Ric Messier
© Rodolfo Clix/Dreamstime.com

Preface

Purpose of This Book

This book is part of the Information Systems Security & Assurance Series from Jones
& Bartlett Learning (www.jblearning.com). Designed for courses and curriculums in
IT Security, Cybersecurity, Information Assurance, and Information Systems Security, this
series features a comprehensive, consistent treatment of the most current thinking and
trends in this critical subject area. These titles deliver fundamental information-security
principles packed with real-world applications and examples. Authored by professionals
experienced in information systems security, they deliver comprehensive information on
all aspects of information security. Reviewed word for word by leading technical experts
in the field, these books are not just current, but forward-thinking—putting you in the
position to solve the cybersecurity challenges not just of today, but of tomorrow as well.
Security Strategies in Linux Platforms and Applications, Second Edition, covers every
major aspect of security on a Linux system. The first part of this book describes the risks,
threats, and vulnerabilities associated with Linux as an operating system. Linux is one of
the predominant operating systems used for public-facing servers on the Internet. As a
result, a big focus for this book is on implementing strategies that you can use to protect
your system implementations, even in cases where they are public facing. To that end,
this book uses examples from two of the major distributions built for the server, Red Hat
Enterprise Linux and Ubuntu (Server Edition).
With Linux, security is much more than just firewalls and permissions. Part 2 of
the book shows you how to take advantage of the layers of security available to Linux—
user and group options, filesystems, and security options for important services, as well as
the security modules associated with AppArmor and SELinux. It also covers encryption
options where available.
The final part of this book explores the use of both open source and proprietary tools when
building a layered security strategy for your Linux operating system environments. With these
tools, you can define a system baseline, audit the system state, monitor system performance,
test network vulnerabilities, detect security breaches, and more. You will also learn basic
practices associated with security alerts and updates, which are just as important.
As with any operating system, a Linux implementation requires strategies to harden
it against attack. Linux is based on another operating system with a very long history,
and it inherits the lessons learned over that history as well as some of the challenges. With
Linux, you get a lot of eyes looking at the programs, which many consider to be a benefit
of using open source programs and operating systems. While there are advantages,

xix
xx    Preface

however, there are risks associated as well. Fortunately, a large community is built
around improving Linux and the various software packages that go into it. This includes
the National Security Agency (NSA), which initially developed a set of security exten-
sions that has since been implemented into the Linux kernel itself.
When you are finished with this book, you will understand the importance of custom
firewalls, restrictions on key services, golden baseline systems, and custom local reposi-
tories. You will even understand how to customize and recompile the Linux kernel.
You will be able to use open source and commercial tools to test the integrity of various
systems on the network. The data you get from such tools will identify weaknesses and
help you create more secure systems.

Learning Features
The writing style of this book is practical and conversational. Each chapter begins with
a statement of learning objectives. Step-by-step examples of information security concepts
and procedures are presented throughout the text. Illustrations are used both to clarify
the material and to vary the presentation. The text is sprinkled with notes, tips, FYIs,
warnings, and sidebars to alert the reader to additional helpful information related to the
subject under discussion. Chapter assessments appear at the end of each chapter, with
solutions provided in the back of the book.
Throughout this book are references to commands and directives. They may be
included in the body of a paragraph in a monospaced font, like this: apt-get update.
Other commands or directives may be indented between paragraphs, like the directive
shown here:
deb http://us.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu/ lucid main restricted

When a command is indented between paragraphs, it’s meant to include a Linux

command line prompt. You will note two different prompts in the book. The first prompt
is represented with a $. As shown here, it represents the command-line prompt from
a regular user account:
$ ls -ltr > list_of_files

The second prompt is represented by a #. As shown here, it represents the command-line

prompt from a root administrative account:
# /usr/sbin/apachectl restart

Sometimes, the command or directive is so long, it has to be broken into multiple lines due
to the formatting requirements of this book. Line wraps are indicated by a curved arrow,
as is shown at the start of what looks like the second line of the iptables command.
It is just a continuation arrow, which would be typed as a continuous command on the
command line or an appropriate configuration file.
iptables -A RH-Firewall-1-INPUT -i eth0 -s 10.0.0.0/8
 -j LOG --log-prefix “Dropped private class A addresses”.
Preface xxi

Chapter summaries are included in the text to provide a rapid review of the material and
to help students understand the relative importance of the concepts presented.

Audience
The material is suitable for undergraduate or graduate computer science majors or
information science majors, students at a two-year technical college or community college
who have a basic technical background, or readers who have a basic understanding
of IT security and want to expand their knowledge. It assumes basic knowledge of Linux
administration at the command-line interface.
© Rodolfo Clix/Dreamstime.com

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank Jones & Bartlett Learning and David Kim of Security Evolutions
for the opportunity to write this book and be a part of the Information Systems Security
& Assurance Series project. This book required a more substantial team effort than ordinary
book projects. I would also like to thank the amazing project manager, Kim Lindros;
the top-notch technical reviewer, Mike Chapple; the sharp copy editor, Kate Shoup;
the marvelous compositor, Mia Saunders; the eagle-eyed proofreader, Ruth Walker;
and Larry Goodrich along with Angela Silvia of High Stakes Writing for facilitating
the entire process.
In addition, I acknowledge the gracious help of Billy Austin of the SAINT corporation,
along with Mike Johnson of AccessData with respect to their products. The author also
acknowledges the fortitude of Linux security professionals everywhere, white-hat hackers
at heart who have to deal with cultural biases from the mainstream security community
along with the legitimate fears of the open source community.
Most importantly, I could not do what I do without the help and support of my wife,
Donna. She makes everything possible for me.
Michael Jang

Writing any book is a process. Revising an existing book for a second edition is also a
process. It takes a team of people to get from conception to completion. Thanks to Mike,
Kate, Mia, Larry, and everyone else who helped get this second edition to the goal line.
Mostly, I’d like to acknowledge all those people who jump into things without any
idea what they are getting themselves into. This fearlessness is the best way to jump
into something new and guarantee that you are going to learn a lot. Try it some time
if you haven’t already.
Ric Messier

xxiii
About the Authors
MICHAEL JANG is a full-time writer, specializing in Linux and related certifications.
His experience with computers dates back to the days of badly shuffled punch cards. He
has written books such as RHCE Red Hat Certified Engineer Study Guide, LPIC-1 In Depth,
Ubuntu Server Administration, and Linux Annoyances for Geeks. He is also the author of
numerous video courses, and teaches preparation courses on Red Hat certification.

RIC MESSIER has been working with Unix and Unix-like operating systems since the
mid-1980s. In the intervening decades, he has done system administration, network
engineering, penetration testing, and programming; developed managed security services;
and worked in operations security and a number of other jobs in between.
Ric is a security professional who has worked with a number of companies from large
Internet service providers to small software companies. He has run a small networking
and security consulting practice for the last several years. Additionally, he has taught
courses at both the graduate and undergraduate level. Currently, in addition to writing
books and recording training videos, he is the program director for Cyber Security and
Digital Forensics at Champlain College in Burlington, Vt. He also maintains a blog
on information security and digital forensics at securitykilroy.blogspot.com.
 PA R T O N E

Is Linux Really Secure?

© Rodolfo Clix/Dreamstime.com

Security Threats to Linux   2

Basic Components of Linux Security   18

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Other documents randomly have
different content
 OUR C. L. S. C. COLUMN.

BY CHANCELLOR J. H. VINCENT, D.D.

For the past year I have given in The Chautauquan a series of

articles on the interior significance and higher aims of the
Chautauqua movement, instead of the answers to questions which
filled the C. L. S. C. column in former years. The closing article of
this year must be made up of answers to questions which are of
general interest.
1. A correspondent inquires “whether Alfred Ayres, author of the
‘Orthoepist,’ and editor of the English Grammar of William Corbett, is
a recognized standard authority in pronunciation, and whether he
should be preferred to Webster or Worcester.” To this I can only
reply that I do not so understand Mr. Ayres’s claim or position in the
field of letters. He certainly is not accepted as are Webster and
Worcester; and the chief advantage of his little volumes is in
showing what one man who has given much attention to the subject
of pronunciation thinks on the subject. That is all.
2. “How can a knowledge of Greek, Roman, or any other history
be of any benefit to me? I prefer to study the works of God, and in
chemistry and other departments of science to trace the signs of his
wisdom.”
Answer: It is important to study God’s great gifts to the race in
the great characters of history and literature. The genius of Homer is
as much a wonder as is any fact in physical science. Acquaintance
with the vivacity, enterprise and energy of the Greek character is as
valuable to people who now live in the world as is a knowledge of
the physical constitution, shape, habits of life, and movements of the
colossal creatures reported by geology as having occupied this
planet ages on ages ago. No education is complete that has not to
some extent been influenced by the spirit of the old Greek culture.
The whole history of that people shows the impotence of mere
culture without moral character, and we may trace through the ages
of Greek history the evidences of divine wisdom and justice. By all
means let us study natural science, but let us not abandon history.
Whatever pertains to man in any age of the world should possess
peculiar interest to us.
3. “People in our neighborhood often say to me: ‘Why study those
books? You will not live to finish the course; and if you do, what
good will it do you or your children?’”
Answer: Ignorant people often ask the question, “Of what use is
education, beyond a small amount of reading, writing and
arithmetic? Why should people who have to work in kitchens and
fields study the stars? Why should men who neither care to act on
the stage, or to write for the press, give much attention to William
Shakspere?” Whatever our business may be, we need to read
general literature because we are members of society, and owe
something as rational beings to society. Parents should keep in
sympathy with their children, whose world of knowledge must of
necessity in this age grow wider and richer all the time. We are,
moreover, members of this universe, and God is our Father. We have
a right as his children to know something about his works and ways
and wisdom. Life is a wearisome thing to people who are ignorant.
There is sustaining power in the large thoughts which a true culture
brings. If one expects to live forever with God, he should cultivate
noble and worthy character on this side the grave, and such nobility
is increased and such holiness promoted by a wide range of reading
and study with worthy motive.
4. I am happy to announce that the “Chautauqua Press” has been
fully organized. Under its direction some of the books of the C. L. S.
C. will be published, and a series of standard books will be issued at
once for the formation of home libraries; books adapted to the
special courses and bearing also upon the Required Readings.
The first series of three or four volumes will be ready by August
1st, and will supplement the regular work of the coming C. L. S. C.
year. While all the classes are reading Roman History, Latin
Literature, Italian Biography, and Italian Art, our “Chautauqua
Library, … Garnet Series,” will provide for those who wish to read
more than the required books, and for those who, as graduates,
wish to win seals, the following admirable volumes:
“Readings from Macaulay. Italy. With an Introduction by Donald
G. Mitchell (Ik Marvel).”
“Readings from Ruskin. Italy. With an Introduction by H. A. Beers,
Professor of English Literature in Yale College.”
“Art and the Cultivation of Taste, by Lucy Crane, with an
Introduction by Charles S. Whiting, of the Springfield (Mass.)
Republican.”
[The fourth volume of the first series will soon be announced.]
This series of four volumes will constitute a special course, for the
reading of which the Garnet Seal (a new one) will be given to all
graduates, and may be won by those undergraduates who are able
to do more than the Required Reading for each year.
The Chautauqua Press will soon have on hand a rich library of
cheap but handsomely printed and bound volumes with which every
Chautauquan will desire to decorate and enrich “The Chautauqua
Corner.”
Now we are on the eve of another summer of rest, of
convocation, of Assembly reunions. From these retreats comes much
of inspiration which keeps the Chautauqua movement in operation
during the remainder of the year. Let me urge all members who can
possibly do so to attend the nearest Assembly. Go to the Round-
Table. Record your name on the list kept by the local secretary.
Show your colors, and thus lend your influence to the Circle.
In behalf of the administration, the president, the counselors, the
secretaries, I extend to all members of the Circle a hearty salutation;
and to all of you who read these lines who have for any reason
grown remiss or apathetic in C. L. S. C. service, I give an earnest
invitation to come back, resume your readings, join the class of ’89,
and make sure of a successful four years’ course.
You will join me, I am sure, in one universal Chautauqua salute to
the honored editor of The Chautauquan and his competent associates
and contributors as our tribute to the ability with which our monthly
has been conducted.
And now, as we “study the word and the works of God,” may our
Heavenly Father be “in the midst,” and “may we never be
discouraged” in pursuing the high and beautiful ideal of the C. L. S.
C.: The attainment of symmetrical and practical culture which will fit
us the better to serve our fellows upon the earth, and to enjoy the
blessings promised by our Father in the heavens!
Plainfield, N. J., May 21, 1885.
 GLIMPSES OF THE CHAUTAUQUA
PROGRAM.

A part of our creed of late has come to be that we need change

in summer. If our homes are in cities, we need it because we can not
have there the requisites of good health—fresh air, pure water, quiet;
if we live in the country, we want and need a change which will give
us social advantages; if we are teachers or students, we want
opportunities to see, to get new ideas, to observe new people and
their customs. This theory of summer living makes the demand for
summer resorts. It is rare, however, that any place offers with any
degree of completeness health, society and opportunities. It is
claimed for Chautauqua that all three may be found there; that it is,
in short, an ideal summer resort, open to all classes of people. The
outlook for Chautauqua in 1885 confirms this claim, and gives to its
admirers most satisfactory glimpses of what is in store for them
during the coming season.
Chautauqua is fortunate in having had candid, disinterested men
examine its condition and management, and pronounce their verdict
as to its healthfulness. One of the most critical examiners of public
places in America, Hon. B. G. Northrup, made his visit to
Chautauqua last summer a kind of inspection tour. He pried into
every corner and cranny, and publicly denounced every abuse he
found. With “courage indomitable,” the Chautauqua “powers that be”
attacked the enemy, and “they are ours.” This summer there is no
pestilential spot, not one vault nor cess-pool nor wet spot to poison
the water and breed disease. The determination of the management
to have perfect sanitary arrangement at any cost—even if all other
improvements are abandoned—is producing a condition
unparalleled. This result, and the means taken for its
accomplishment, are worthy of close study by every visitor at
Chautauqua, particularly by those who are property owners, or are
interested in the government of towns.
Chautauqua is a safe resting place. But it is more. It is
preëminently a social place. Its social life is as pure and wholesome
and natural as the air and water. Simple, unaffected manners, free,
kindly intercourse, characterize the daily life of the people. “How
very democratic you are here,” said a visitor last year, “and I don’t
see a particle of snobbishness.” And it is true. The simple reason,
perhaps, is that Chautauqua brings out of every one the best in
them. People literally live too high there for snobbishness. They can
run out in the morning for their milk or bread or steak; they can
carry their bundles or do their own washing, and the high, clear,
mental atmosphere of the place forbids them minding who sees
them at their duties, forbids any one who sees them feeling that the
work is menial. This mental and social air is indeed one of the most
exhilarating things about the place. You do live socially above your
ordinary level—live so because it is “in the air.” You can not help it.
How wonderfully good health and good company contribute to
making a good working place. Above all things else Chautauqua is
that. Its pure air stirs your blood until you feel like working; its social
life stimulates you; its opportunities are a constant temptation. Of
course Chautauqua temptations begin with the platform. There are
at least two features of the program for the platform of 1885 which
deserve special attention. Of these the first is—it is timely. The
questions which are interesting society are the questions it
discusses. Note what a prominent place “Mormonism” holds. Miss
Kate Field makes it the subject of two lectures: “The Mormon Creed”
and the “Political and Social Crimes of Utah,” and Mr. W. L. Marshall
takes up “Utah and the Mormon Question” in a third lecture.
Temperance, our knottiest social problem, is elucidated by Miss
Frances Willard in the “Evolution in the Temperance Reform,” by Mrs.
Ellen Foster, by Hon. G. W. Bain, by a National Temperance Society
Day, by temperance bands, by conventions, and by every attraction
which Chancellor Vincent can devise and valiant Chautauqua
temperance workers carry out. Missions, too, have a brave array of
talent to plead their claim. The first four days of August are mission
days, on which are discussed means of increasing interest and
improving methods of evangelizing both foreign and home heathens,
of raising funds, and of securing workers. One of the leading mission
workers of 1885 will be the Rev. Wm. F. Johnson, of Allahabad,
India. Mr. Johnson has been in the field nearly twenty years. He will
fill the place this summer that Ram Chandra Bose and the Rev. Mr.
Osborne filled in the missionary conferences of last year.
A second characteristic is—the program is practical. Every day is
full of hints; every exercise is suggestive. As an illustration, no
profession is attracting so much attention to-day as is journalism; a
successful journalist is to discuss it. Such a subject will be of
practical benefit to numbers of young men and women who will be
listeners to Mr. Carroll. Practical Christian ethics and Christian work
form prominent subjects; as, for example, the three days’
examination of “Parish Work in Cities,” by Edward Everett Hale, and
the interesting meetings of the Society of Christian Ethics. The tours
abroad, while they are so bright and entertaining, are brimful of
suggestions. This summer is to be unusually rich, the time being
given largely to Italy. One pleasing variety will be a tour around the
world with Philip Phillips.
The special features of the summer will be strong. The Teachers’
Retreat, which begins its sessions in July, is arranged to do for
teachers one peculiarly necessary work, to show them how to use
the best methods, to lessen the friction which is incident to all school
work. It is ably manned to produce this result, Prof. J. W. Dickinson,
of the State Board of Education of Massachusetts, being at the head
of the department of Pedagogy, and nearly a score of successful
specialists assisting in expositions of their peculiar methods. The
terms for the C. T. R. are very low.
Persons holding the $5 ticket of the Chautauqua Teachers’ Retreat
will be entitled to the following privileges: All general exercises in the
Amphitheater, including lectures, concerts, recitals, and
entertainments, during the sessions of the Retreat; fourteen lessons
in Pedagogy; fourteen lessons in Practical Application of Pedagogical
Science; four Tourists’ Conferences; two Expositions of Method in
Chemistry; one Exposition of Method in Penmanship; two Expositions
of Method in Elocution; one Exposition of Method in Phonography;
one Exposition of Method in Stenographic Reporting; two admissions
to each of the several classes in the Schools of Language; two
lectures on School Methods by Prof. Edw. E. Smith, Superintendent
of Schools, Syracuse, N. Y.; ten Half-hour Drills in School
Calisthenics. Special classes are arranged as well for those who can
find time to take in more than the full program, or who desire
special instructions.
Each summer, since the idea of a summer school was conceived,
there has been a steady growth in the opportunities given to
students. The coming season keeps up the record for improvement.
The C. S. L. stands preëminent among Chautauqua institutions. In
its departments of Greek, Latin, Hebrew, English, French, German
and Spanish, the practical benefit to be derived in six weeks is
altogether inconceivable to those persons who are unacquainted
with the teachers directing the studies, and with the methods used.
To two or three features we would call particular attention—features
which serve merely as samples of work being done daily in all
classes. In the Anglo-Saxon room there is a class which studies
“Hamlet” for four weeks, a series of lessons rich in illustrations and
full of facts. A particular beauty of this class is the free discussion
and analysis of character which Professor M’Clintock encourages.
Professors Worman and Lalande have many novel devices for
fascinating their students. As interesting study as there was at
Chautauqua last summer was the children’s hour in German,
conducted by Professor Worman; as a lesson to teachers it was
unsurpassed, as a drill for children it would teach them German if
anything would. As for the French, the weekly lectures, the French
receptions, and now this year, the “French table” which Professor
Lalande has arranged for, are prominent features.
Not content with reading Latin, Professor Shumway proposes that
his students talk it. For many students at Chautauqua last summer a
tree became arbor, the forest silva, the shade umbra, the dead alive
—a result, by the way, that very often is accomplished at
Chautauqua. The successful introduction of a School of Microscopy
was accomplished in 1884; 1885 will see the work enlarged. This
department is under the direction of an able teacher, Professor Hall.
His outfit for observation, and for preparing and mounting objects is
most complete.
It is said that when the Egyptians moved the huge rocks which
form the pyramids, musicians were stationed among the workmen,
and every motion was made in time to music. Chancellor Vincent
seems to have profited by this suggestion in preparing the
Chautauqua program for 1885, for it is all set to music of the rarest
kind. To begin with, the great organ is handled by a skillful master,
Mr. I. V. Flagler. His series of recitals contain selections from the
greatest masters. The chorus will be led by our old favorites,
Professors Case and Sherwin. The Fisk Jubilees, the Meigs-Underhill
Combination, a new quartette—the Schubert, of Chicago, vocalists
with rare voices, and with a splendid repertoire—and Miss Dora
Henninges, of Louisville, a superb mezzo-soprano, will complete the
musical program for 1885.
These are but hints of what the six weeks’ session holds in store
for visitors to Chautauqua this season. The entire program, with all
its specialties, has been prepared with consummate care and with
close regard for popular needs. The management has striven
honestly to make Chautauqua a perfectly healthy place, with
abundant social life, and with opportunities suited to the needs of all
classes of people. The verdict of its thousands of visitors is that in
the past they have succeeded. The outlook for 1885 declares that
this year will be still more abundantly successful.
 LOCAL CIRCLES.

C. L. S. C. MOTTOES.
“We Study the Word and the Works of God.”—“Let us keep our
Heavenly Father in the Midst.”—“Never be Discouraged.”

C. L. S. C. MEMORIAL DAYS.
1. Opening Day—October 1.
2. Bryant Day—November 3.
3. Special Sunday—November, second Sunday.
4. Milton Day—December 9.
5. College Day—January, last Thursday.
6. Special Sunday—February, second Sunday.
7. Founder’s Day—February 23.
8. Longfellow Day—February 27.
9. Shakspere Day—April 23.
10. Addison Day—May 1.
11. Special Sunday—May, second Sunday.
12. Special Sunday—July, second Sunday.
 13. Inauguration Day—August, first Saturday after first Tuesday;
anniversary of C. L. S. C. at Chautauqua.
14. St. Paul’s Day—August, second Saturday after first Tuesday;
anniversary of the dedication of St. Paul’s Grove at Chautauqua.
15. Commencement Day—August, third Tuesday.
16. Garfield Day—September 19.

The present number closes Volume V. of The Chautauquan and

interrupts for a time the pleasant monthly visits with Local Circles. A
review of the year’s work must be satisfactory to all. It has been a
progressive year for the circles; few have fallen out of line; numbers
of new organizations have been formed; almost all have increased
their membership; the circle work has been done more thoroughly
than ever before; new methods have sparkled on every page of
reports; the social life has been quickened and intensified; the circle
evening has become the most important evening of the week; it has
been made the occasion of practical discussions and of intelligent
conversation; a stronger feeling of union exists; the local circle has
become a permanent institution. There is much encouragement in
the review, but there is much for each circle to learn in a study of
the reports of the past year.
The present issue of The Chautauquan will contain all the reports
received up to the date of going to press; those received after that
date will necessarily be held over for the October issue.
Very interesting and encouraging reports have been received from
Halifax, Nova Scotia, where the local circles are prospering, and much
earnest work has been done. While their routine work and the
required course of reading and study are pursued by the several
circles separately, their occasional reunions are found profitable, and
furnish much real enjoyment for the members. One such was held
on Longfellow day at Dartmouth, across the harbor, which proved
intensely interesting to an expectant audience. Thorough
preparation was made for this meeting, and the whole arrangement
was admirable. On Shakspere day an equally excellent program
celebrated the day. The programs for both were highly original. The
annual conversazione of the “Central” circle, Toronto, was held on
May 19th. The novel little arrangement for a program—three ribbon-
tied circles—looks most inviting. A half hour of orchestra music
preceded the address and concert, after which were stereopticon
views and a promenade. The guests were entertained at the Normal
School building, where the museum and picture galleries were
thrown open to them.
Among the Maine circles is a goodly one at Rockport, composed at
its beginning in 1882 of twenty-one ladies. They have clung together
through separation in a way quite remarkable. One of their number
spent last year at sea, but took her books along, and had her
Chautauquan sent to meet her at various points. Another friend who
has been around the world during the past year missed her books at
Antwerp, but writes from San Francisco that she is ready to make up
the year’s work. The Rockport circle has the peculiar honor of having
for its president a lady over seventy years of age.——“Mountain
Echoes” have reached us from Bridgeton—nineteen of them. This
circle was formed in 1883, and for a year met monthly; the success
was so great that they have doubled their number of meetings. A
sufficient proof of their statement that “good work is being
done.”——Fifteen members of a circle at Bangor write us that they
have enthusiasm quite sufficient for a class much larger. It is the
steady variety, too, we fancy, for since 1881 they have met, with few
exceptions, every Monday night from October to July. The studying
is done on this evening, and time has been faithfully used, for they
have succeeded in reviewing several books. A talented young
physician in their midst has favored them this winter with lectures on
Animal and Vegetable Biology, with microscopic illustrations.——A
spirited circle, the “Whittier,” of twenty-five members, is working at
North Berwick. Debates are frequent features of their programs, and
they have adopted the sensible habit of choosing timely questions.
Shakspere day was observed by a reading of the “Merchant of
Venice,” the characters being assigned by a committee. At North
Berwick the circle is fortunate in having members of different
denominations who mingle in perfect cordiality. The result of their
work together has been, they write, “an improvement of mind and
broadening of ideas.”
A pleasant gathering of C. L. S. C. folks has been carrying on local
circle work since October last at Meredith Village, New Hampshire.
Some fifteen members are in the company. A gentleman interested
in the work kindly furnishes them a room, lighted, warmed, and
furnished. The memorial days are held in honor, and recently they
have had “an extra” in a talk on chemistry from a teacher of the
town.
Vermont is represented this month in a lively letter from
Montpelier: “Our circle is not dumb, as might be inferred from our
silence, neither are we deaf to the appeals for reports from local
circles. The trouble is this: Though an organization of about twenty
members since October last, we have until this month been
nameless. One name after another was suggested until ‘The Idea
Hunters’ was proposed, and met with general favor. I think our
motto should be, ‘Hunt until you find,’ for we are constantly hunting
in reference books for settlements to the many questions proposed.
We are learning, of course, and getting no little amusement out of
our researches as well.”
From the “Chautauqua Quintette,” of Chelsea, Mass., we have this
cheery report: “We are a little company of five ladies, all intensely
interested in the C. L. S. C. work. We derive great benefit from our
work, and some of our programs would be creditable to a larger
organization.”——A slightly discouraged circle, finding it “hard to
exist,” is the “Thaxter,” of Attleboro. The small membership troubles
them. It should not, it seems to us, especially since they have five
members who write “fine essays.” We surmise that if the “Thaxter”
has five good essay writers it is better off than many a large circle,
and from the program of their Longfellow entertainment it is evident
that some one of their number knows how to manage such things.
Cheer up, friends.——A really joyous letter comes from Melrose,
where the secretary of the “Alpha” has been delaying her report
because the new members would not cease coming in, and she
wanted to get them all. She writes: “Every member is enthusiastic,
and I believe that excellent work is being done. This is my last year
—that is to say the last of my first four years’ course. Please accept
the most cordial greetings of our circle; we hope to send annual
greetings for many years to come.”——A dainty hand-painted
souvenir of the Shakspere evening of the “Alpha,” at Uxbridge,
accompanies their report of good, strong work. The circle is small,
but, says one of their number, “Chautauqua means a good deal with
us.” The “Alphas” are to be congratulated on the success of the
memorial exercises they have held this year.——Twenty-eight
“Pilgrims,” of Dorchester, with their pastor as leader, are pursuing
their course up the hill of knowledge courageously. Their meetings
are well attended and interesting. Their verdict is: “We certainly feel
that our circle has been a great benefit to us all the year, though it
has been our first attempt at such work. We have no reason to
regret starting, and look to next year for greater results.”——At Lynn
the “Raymond” circle carried out a very taking list of exercises in
celebration of April 23d. It was the first entertainment of the kind
the circle has ever given, and certainly they ought to be pleased with
their success. Their program has that unusual merit, originality.——
The “Vincent” circle, of Needham, was organized early in the fall, and
has been flourishing since. Nearly forty members are in the class,
and next year additions are expected. The “Vincent” is going to do
what we wish every circle in existence would do, have a
representative at their nearest Assembly—if you can not go to
Chautauqua. The ideas and stimulus gained would be worth many
times the cost and fatigue.——A suggestion comes from “Clark”
circle, of Jamaica Plain, that deserves a comment. It is that The
Chautauquan print more of the programs which it reports. Did we not
furnish at least four programs each month for the use of circles we
should certainly do this. As it is, we prefer to take the many good
suggestions which we get from the programs sent us, and use them
in our monthly programs. We do this because the programs sent us
can not be printed until so long after the performance has taken
place that they are of no practical use to circles; by readapting them
we can give them to circles in a way in which they will be of use.
The “Clark” itself has sent us a program that deserves reprinting,
only of what practical good would be a March program in The
Chautauquan for July?——“Although but a very small part of the great
Chautauqua army, we have caught something of its spirit, and wish
it ever increasing success.” So writes the secretary of the
correspondence circle of “Earnest Workers,” of which Alice C.
Jennings, of Auburndale, is president. The circle has a thorough and
systematic plan of work. Frequent letters from the president offer
counsel and hints. At each monthly meeting memoranda from the
students are read. These memoranda contain answers to a list of
printed questions, such as: “What books have you read in
connection with the C. L. S. C.? What three subjects in them have
most interested you? Have you met with any difficulties, and if so,
what?” etc. The whole plan of their work is admirable——The
“Acadia” circle of Franklin, Mass., was organized in 1882. It has now
sixty members. The president, although pastor of a large church,
has been absent but five times since the circle’s organization. One of
their great helps has been the pronouncing matches on Greek
names and common English words. On Shakspere day the circle had
the pleasure of listening to a lecture from Dr. R. R. Meredith, on
“Leisure Hours.”
From Woodbury, Conn., comes a plea: “Pray receive into your host
of local circles the ‘Lone Star,’ for we are alone. There were others
with us who are not faded, but gone.” Marriage and going west has
robbed the circle of its members, until but one is left to keep the fire
burning on the shrine. We are glad to find a corner for that one here
—certainly in these columns there is plenty of company and no need
to grow lonely.——The “Newfield” circle of West Stratford is still
“marching on.” On Shakspere day the circle read “Merchant of
Venice” and “Julius Cæsar” with hearty appreciation, closing their
celebration with a C. L. S. C. experience meeting. Many were the
stories told of what Chautauqua had done for them.——Mansfield
Center, a rural village in a dear old fashioned Connecticut street, is
the home of a circle of eleven members. It was not begun until
January last, but has shown its colors by having quite caught up.
Two of the professors of the neighboring Agricultural College have
given them very interesting lectures, and on Longfellow and
Shakspere days recitations and music furnished pleasing
entertainments.
A report of a successful first year comes from Auburn, Rhode
Island, where the “Clio,” of fourteen members, was formed in
October last. The new circles are all, like the “Clio,” promising to
start next fall with fresh vigor.——Our thanks are due the “Esmeralda
Bachelor” circle for the program of the first memorial services under
the auspices of the Rhode Island Chautauqua Union. Great credit is
due to Prof. John H. Appleton, the president of the Union, for his
efforts to make the occasion a success.——The Sentinel Advertiser,
of Hope Valley, devoted almost a column to a Shakspere evening, at
which the “Aryans” of that town entertained the “Pawcatuck” circle
of Carolina. Some twenty-six of the guest circle were present and
were greeted with elegant hospitality by the home circle.
They are always doing something new at Ocean Grove, New York.
The last has been a Tree Planting Day. On April 15 the C. L. S. C.
planted a beautiful maple for each class respectively of ’85, ’86, ’87,
and ’88. Representatives of each class were present, the largest
number, of course, being for 1888. There was a short address by Dr.
Stokes, prayer by the Rev. A. E. Ballard, and an appropriate song for
each tree set out in Bishops’ Grove. In the evening a “service
extraordinary” was held; trees and tree planting were the topics of
talks, of songs, reading and reminiscences.——The Palmyra C. L. S. C.
has enjoyed two evenings in chemistry recently, Prof. J. C. Norris, of
Walworth Academy, kindly explaining dark points to them, and
performing many fine experiments. The circle is very warm in its
praise of the lecture and lecturer.——A Chautauqua circle consisting
of fifteen members was organized at Union Springs in January of this
year. The members make their lessons interesting and profitable
with music, questions, and readings.——The “Philomathean,” of
Lancaster, has a capital way of working in its inexperienced
members. “Questions, criticisms, and commendations are
interspersed through the whole evening. We aim to draw out the
silent ones, to make all interested and feel themselves responsible;
try to have every one feel that he must take every appointment, and
allow no one to escape his turn at getting up question lists and easy
work, and so seek to train them for the more difficult work.” This
circle is not yet a year old, and numbers fifteen members.——We are
happy to introduce the first C. L. S. C. inventors. The “Unique” circle,
of Lockport, claim that honor. Their invention is a game made up
from the questions and answers in The Chautauquan, and is intended
to form a comprehensive review of the year’s work. “The Unique” is
the title of it. Would it not be generous in the Lockport circle to
share their discovery with the rest of us?——The “Argonaut” circle,
of Buffalo, entertained a large number of invited friends at a special
meeting held in April. The affair was a decided success. The
“Argonauts” deserve special credit for the efforts that they are
making to awaken interest in the affairs of the C. L. S. C. by extra
meetings.——At Yonkers there is a circle now in its third year which
has never reported to The Chautauquan before. In all it numbers
twenty. Their work during the past three years of their existence has
been in regular programs of essays, readings, and questions and
answers, with an occasional variation to suit necessity. This year
they held a very successful memorial service in honor of Longfellow’s
day, and more recently have had a valuable lecture, with
experiments, on chemistry.——Fourteen persons are reading the
Bryant course in connection with The Chautauquan, at Munnsville. The
circle did not undertake work until January, so adopted a short
course for the rest of this year rather than try the regular course. We
hope to find them at work on the regular course next fall, with their
hopes of a larger membership gratified.
“Our Junto” is a circle within a circle. Five young men of the
“Broadway” circle, of Camden, New Jersey, form it. Their program for
the spring (of which they ought to be very proud) is a little book
rather than a single page, containing the work laid out for the
“Juntonians.” The plan is admirable. Each member has something to
do at every meeting, and he knows what it is to be so long
beforehand that he has ample opportunity to gather material. All
circles will find it to their advantage to give attention to “Our Junto’s”
plan.——Last October a few of the many students in the C. L. S. C.
in Newark, organized a local circle. By the perseverance of these few
others have been persuaded to join until the circle numbers about
twenty. They have taken the name “Arcadia.” Memorial days in
particular find pleasant observance. The last celebration, Longfellow
day, was especially interesting. The chemistry is furnishing an
excellent opportunity for experiments, which the “Arcadia” is
fortunate enough to have a chance to carry on in an academy
laboratory.——For the sake of northern New Jersey, which they are
sorry not to see often reported in The Chautauquan, the members of
the “Hawthorne,” of Hackettstown, a circle of five members, formed in
April last, has sent us thus promptly its report. The “Hawthorne”
plunged in medias res and celebrated the Shakspere memorial
almost as soon as its organization was complete. Such a vigorous
start promises well for their progress next year.——The “Round
Table” circle of Jersey City is a band of twenty enthusiastic workers. A
great deal of genuine hard work has been done by them the past
year. The memorial days are celebrated, and every incentive used to
foster the true Chautauqua spirit. Experiments have recently been
given the class at the high school under the direction of the teacher
of science.——The “Ionic,” organized in Dover, in January last, grows
in interest with each meeting. There are nine members, whose
happy experience thus far has been never to be discouraged. But
why should they be? “Each member does his part.”
The “Kensington,” of Philadelphia, is a circle of eleven members
who are much in love with their readings. Such a success has their
circle become that the members are willing to sacrifice other things
to be present, and the president writes that he has received great
benefit in going over again the fields of study that he harvested
years ago.——A letter from the secretary of the “Pleiades,” of
Philadelphia, says: “‘Pleiades’ is now nearly two years old. We began
the present school year by increasing our membership from nine to
eighteen. We took the advice given in The Chautauquan on simplicity
of government, adopting such rules only as would systematize
matters, and having as little formality as possible. It is a success.
The meetings are so profitable that we think of continuing them all
summer. Two of our members have taken college courses in
chemistry, and they have been giving us some practical experiments
in this delightful study. Greetings to our sister circles, and praises to
our alma mater.”——The “Emanon” circle, of West Philadelphia, has
sustained a sad loss in the death of Mr. John S. Rodgers, to whom
the circle ascribes its success. He had been the instructor of the
class for a long enough time for its members to appreciate his worth
and sincerely mourn his death.——A similar sorrow has come to the
circle of West Bellevue, where Mrs. Dr. W. G. Humber, a loyal member
of the C. L. S. C., died on the morning of May 3d.——The
Chautauquans of Pittsburgh make more of Special Sunday than any
other circles that we know of. Our last reminder of this is a tiny vest-
pocket program of the exercises carried out by the “Duquesne” and
“Mount Washington” circles on the second Sabbath in May.——The
circle at Uniondale writes us that it has chosen for its name
“Meredith,” in honor of Samuel Meredith, first Treasurer of the
United States, and for their motto they have selected “Spare minutes
are the gold dust of time.”——What better proof of the efficiency of
the course than this testimony from the “Tennyson” circle of thirty
members, at Rochester, Pa.: “We think generally that our most
pleasant evenings are spent at our circle. One thing that deserves to
be especially noted is that light reading among us is being
superseded by solid study and the reading of standard authors.”——
A circle of ’88s, at Allegheny City, bears the popular name of “Wallace
Bruce.” Starting with eighteen members they have grown to twenty-
eight, a sign, we hope, that next year they will increase with the
same rapidity. Their program of Shaksperean exercises is before us,
and it bears some excellent numbers.——The “Carbondale” circle
reports a prosperous year. The interest and enthusiasm of the
members is increasing. The memorial days are all observed, and by
devoting ten to fifteen minutes of each session to singing the circle
is becoming familiar with Chautauqua songs. Mr. and Mrs. G. R.
Alden gave the circle some very happy talks on their return from
their recent trip to the Florida Chautauqua and New Orleans
Exposition. The circle closed its first year with a trip to England; this
year it closed with a “Greek night.” Going direct to France they
propose to visit Paris, Switzerland, Italy and Greece. Arrived in
Hellas, the manners, customs, home life and amusements of the
Greeks are to be described in short essays. Each member intends to
constitute “thonself” a committee of one to secure a new member
for next year’s circle.——An appreciative letter reaches us from
Springboro, where a circle now numbering fifteen has been in
existence since 1881. The president writes: “While we are nearing
the goal of graduation we look back with gratitude at our rich feast
with kings and princes, with masters of art, of science, and of
literature. Best of all, we find that we have been made to more
clearly understand the wonderful power of the Infinite in all things.
With our motto ‘Invincible’ still before us we hope not only to finish
the course, but keep climbing with the Chautauqua brotherhood
while life lasts.”——Let all good Chautauquans congratulate the
fraternity at Montrose. Thus the secretary writes: “It has long been a
wish that we might have a branch of the C. L. S. C. in our ‘City on
the Hill.’ Four attempts were made, but to no avail; finally a few who
were especially enthusiastic endeavored to push ahead once more.
The result has been more successful than we anticipated. We
organized in January with nine members, and now have grown to
sixteen. We trust that July will find us with the desired amount of
work fully and well accomplished. There is a most encouraging
prospect of doubling the membership another year.”
Twenty-seven enrolled members make up the circle at Erie, Pa.
The circle meets in the Y. M. C. A. parlors, and the informal, pleasant
meetings have proved a great attraction to the members. The
Shakspere memorial was observed very successfully, by a parlor
session. The literary part of the program consisted of a discussion on
the authorship of Shakspere, followed by readings, then came
refreshments and the evening was closed by a half hour of
Chautauqua songs. Not many evenings ago an address was
delivered by the president on Emerson, followed by an hour of
practical observation through the telescope. The Erie circle claims
that they have interesting meetings, and as a proof say that a non-
member, a blind man, is in almost constant attendance.——About
100 members of the C. L. S. C. Alumni Association of Pittsburgh met
in a social way at the parlors of the Seventh Avenue Hotel on April
20th, to enjoy the pleasures attendant upon the third annual reunion
of the society. Arrangements had been partially made for the
reception of Dr. Vincent, who had been expected, but the following
letter was received instead:
 To the Annual Reunion of the Pittsburgh C. L. S. C. Alumni Association,
Pittsburgh, Pa.:
My Dear Fellow-Students—I sincerely regret the engagement which had
been made prior to the invitation to meet you this evening. The original
engagement it was impossible to break. I am therefore denied the privilege
of your feast of reason and flow of soul. The Chautauqua work increases in
expansion and power. The later classes are steadily growing. I have the
good hope that the classes of ’89, already forming, will be the largest and
most flourishing of all. I am more and more convinced that there are
multitudes of people who would hail with joy the provisions of the “C. L. S.
C.” if they were simply informed concerning them. Are you doing all you can
toward the enlightenment of the great public with regard to the C. L. S. C.
and other branches of the Chautauqua work? Let me urge you to renewed
zeal in this direction. Bidding you “a hearty God speed,” I remain your
servant in this goodly work.
J. H. Vincent.
The banquet passed off most pleasantly.
At a recent meeting of the “Evergreen” circle, of Greenville, S. C., the circle expressed
in a series of fitting resolutions the sorrow of the members at the death of Mr. Richard
Grant White, and their appreciation of the value of his recent work for The Chautauquan.
A letter from Petersburg, Virginia: “We organized our circle last October, but it was
almost January before we got fairly started. We follow closely the work laid out in The
Chautauquan, occasionally having a public meeting. Our observance of the Longfellow and
Shakspere days was as creditable as any literary exercises ever presented in our vicinity.
Our desire for books has been so much increased by the C. L. S. C. that we have resolved
to establish a library for the reading element of our city, and we have begun by the
purchase of a few works as a nucleus.”
Orange City, Florida, has the beginning of, we hope, a large circle, in six readers who
are taking the C. L. S. C. with their general reading. They use the questions and answers
and make the general news of the week a feature of every program. The “Orange City”
circle is looking forward to an assembly some day at Mount Dora.
Ohio comes in with a letter too good to lose: “I discover in your May number that a
Kansas member of the C. L. S. C. class of ’85 says he is the oldest of that class and was
born (1815) in the year of the great battle of Waterloo. I hope he will persevere and
enjoy the exercises until he reaches the age of at least three of the ‘Irrepressibles of ’84,’
two of whom are 75 years of age and one 84. The last is still reading for another seal and
hopes to be at Chautauqua in August. Hope the member from Kansas will press on in the
work he has begun, for there are great possibilities before him which can only be
attained by perseverance. He will retain his mental faculties fresh and vigorous as in
youth. Press on, good brother, and you will reap your reward here and hereafter.”——The
C. L. S. C. of Cincinnati and vicinity held their Sixth Annual Reunion on May 5th in the
parlors of the First Presbyterian Church. A goodly number were present from “Alpha”
circle, “Cumminsville,” “Christie,” “Mt. Auburn,” “Cheviot,” “Grace M. P.,” “Third
Presbyterian,” “Emanuel,” “Covington,” “Newport,” “Madisonville” and “Walnut Hills.” The
program consisted of an address of welcome by J. G. O’Connell, Esq.; prayer by Rev. S.
N. Spahr, followed by music, readings, and recitations. The room was brilliantly decorated
with mottoes and class emblems, and a profusion of choice and fragrant flowers. From
the chandeliers were suspended the class dates, ’85, ’86, ’87, and ’88, and the letters S.
H. G. and under these were grouped merry companies, who took part in the collation,
which was not the least enjoyable feature of the program. The quarterly vesper service
was held on Special Sunday, May 9th, at Grace M. P. Church. It was ably conducted by
Mr. E. F. Layman, President of “Grace” circle. Rev. S. N. Spahr gave a very excellent
address to the members upon knowledge rightly directed.——The “Young Men’s” circle of
Cincinnati has been doing good work this year. The circle is composed of companion
workers in church and Sabbath school, and the bounds of union have been strengthened
by the united study of the “Word and Works of God.” The Chautauqua studies were taken
up by them with an earnest desire to better fit themselves for successful work. Their faith
and courage has been severely tried by the death of one of their active, earnest
members, Mr. George E. Wilcox—a sorrow which they are struggling to make a blessing.
——The class of ’88 has a live section at Morrow, the “Irving.” There are over thirty
regular attendants in the band and their fortnightly meetings are conducted like college
recitations, a pastor being the instructor. May the “Irvings” prosper and multiply.
A friend writes from Norway, Michigan: “We wish to be recognized by our fellow-
workers as a prosperous circle, although a small one, and we are very glad we have
joined them.” The “Norway” has made a splendid record in its year’s existence, having
met every week since last October. It need not fear a lack of cordial welcome here.
——“Thornapple” circle, of Nashville, boasts a history very similar to that of the “Norway.”
It was first organized a year ago, and its membership is ten. The members are all
workers, and kindly report themselves highly pleased with the Chautauqua Idea.——A
letter full of the Chautauqua characteristics comes from Decatur: “Our ‘Pansy’ circle of
twenty-five members have held regular meetings since October. We are enthusiastic, and
have done genuine work. But it has not all been work. We have had a ‘question match’
upon Greek History and Mythology, the winner of the contest receiving as a prize an
original poem. On Founder’s day the question box was on ‘What has Chautauqua done
for me?’ On Longfellow’s memorial the circle visited a neighboring class, spending a
merry evening. But the red-letter day of the year was April 23d, when a dinner party was
tendered the members and their husbands by one of the circle. It was generally
pronounced the most enjoyable affair the town had had in many a day and served as a
good advertisement of what the C. L. S. C. does for its members. Few of our guests knew
how much we had done or could do.”——An unusually good joint meeting took place at
Flint in honor of Shakspere. Two circles of the C. L. S. C. and one of the Spare Minute
Course united. We like one thing on the program particularly. After taking up in essays
Shakspere’s Character, Home Life and Contemporaries, the essays were all studies of one
play—“Macbeth;” thus the plot of “Macbeth” was outlined, then followed “Macbeth’s
Character,” “Lady Macbeth,” “Who was Duncan?” “Witches and Ghosts,” and “Moral of
Macbeth.” This is a much more satisfactory method than several disjointed readings or
studies. The evening was closed by conversation and readings, conducted by an able
Shaksperean scholar, Hon. E. H. Thompson.
Shakspere himself would, we wager, have been nothing loath to have taken part in the
celebration given in his memory at Goshen, Indiana; for “Kitchen Science” illustrated took
up the first part of the evening, and the supper, we are told, was not confined to the
articles on which The Chautauquan has tried to instruct its readers this past year. In the
evening, after these gastronomic exercises were finished, a literary program was carried
out.——Here is a circle “of the first magnitude.” Read its record. “The Franklin C. L. S. C.
of Indiana has increased during the past three years from a membership of twelve to
forty-five. We have never failed in having our regular meetings every two weeks since we
first organized. During the past winter the circle managed the lecture course of our city,
and as one of the results cleared nearly $100. Chancellor Vincent was one of the
lecturers, and the members of our circle were delighted to meet him after hearing ‘That
Boy.’”——The C. L. S. C. at Lima, representing classes ’85, ’86, ’87 and ’88, is one of the
brightest and most wide-awake circles in the State. The circle was organized three years
ago, and now has a pleasantly furnished room with piano, library, etc.; meets every
Friday evening, and observes all memorial days.——Shawnee Mound has a Chautauqua
class of twenty-three members. We are pleased to notice that the circle passed, at a
recent meeting, a resolution of respect in memory of Richard Grant White, expressing
their sorrow at the loss which American scholarship, and in particular the C. L. S. C. have
sustained.——We are pained to record the death of Mr. Hermon St. John, at Salem, on
May 1st. The Chautauqua work loses in him a faithful friend.
It has been remarked in these columns already that “Alpha” of Quincy, Illinois, is
famous for its novelties. Their latest sensation was the very practical illustration of a
subject given before the circle by the secretary. This gentleman is a native of Hibernia,
and so was chosen for a paper on dynamite. When called upon to perform he produced a
package of the explosive, much to the consternation of the members.——There died at
Rushville, on April 18th, the oldest member, without doubt, of the C. L. S. C. in the world,
Mr. Van Rensalaer Wells. Three years ago his daughter began reading to him the books of
the course. He took a lively interest in these readings, and finally joined the class of ’86.
Had he lived it was his intention to have visited Chautauqua at the graduation of his
class.——A good woman from Chicago writes: “I went about from house to house among
my friends, and finally succeeded in inducing three young persons, all earning their own
living, to begin the readings with me.… We sit around a table socially, and discuss freely
our literary repast.… I forgot to say that I am a very busy woman, the mother of three
boys. My best reading is often done after nine at night, when the little eyes are closed in
sleep.”——The announcement of a new C. L. S. C. arrival is made from Oregon, where the
“Ganymede” of twenty members appeared in October last. Busy people, but they feel
that they can not afford to miss the Saturday evening meeting. The meetings are to be
continued through the summer for the purpose of review.——Another Illinois addition
made to the C. L. S. C. last fall was at Savoy, where a club of eighteen was gathered.
Notwithstanding the very severe weather and deep snow, and the fact that the circle
members are farmers, living far apart, the sessions are full and wide-awake. A very good
plan has been tried by the circle in chemistry, the blackboard being used for exercises.
Every circle ought to have a blackboard.——The history of the class at Buckley began in
1882, when six members met in informal meetings for discussion. In 1884 it was thought
wise to organize formally. Since that time the circle has been making a decided
impression upon the community. Two public meetings have been given, which have
attracted general attention. At the last, the closing session of the year, thoughtful
remembrance was made of the president by the gift of a beautiful chair.——A band of
nine join the ranks from Warren. It is only of late the class has found a name. It is
“Meridian,” from the fact that the town is situated on one of the meridians. The circle has
been following The Chautauquan in its plan of work, using the published programs, with
slight variation.——“It takes three to make a circle,” writes a lady from Farina, “and we
are three; one ‘Invincible,’ one ‘Pansy,’ and one ‘Plymouth Rock.’ We are scattered as to
time, but are united in interest, in enthusiasm, and in determination. Our circle was
organized in November, 1881, only a dot—myself—but though alone, and unsuccessful in
securing readers, and hindered in every way from doing the best of work, there was a
satisfaction in doing the readings that nothing had ever brought into my life. What we
shall accomplish as a circle, the future will reveal, but there is no ‘giving up’ to any of
us.”——A Chautauqua circle of Moline, not yet a year old, and a Shaksperean circle, under
the same direction as the former, have been coöperating the past season in a series of
parlor meetings of great interest. In January it was a dinner party; on Founder’s day a
literary performance with brief essays on Chautauqua subjects; and on Shakspere day a
decidedly new thing—a Shaksperean quotation contest. No one was allowed to give a
quotation that had been given by another, and the successful competitor took the prize
on his ninety-fifth quotation.——We are in receipt of the Longfellow program of the
“Oakland” circle, of Chicago; an excellent and varied list of numbers it is. The “Oakland” is
a wide-awake circle.
From Markesan, Wisconsin, the secretary of “Climax” circle writes: “We are still in a
flourishing condition. Although some who were with us last year have gone to new
homes, we have new members to make up those we have lost. There are no very young
students in the class, but one has to wear two pairs of spectacles to see. We have
observed most of the memorial days, and found the programs in The Chautauquan very
useful.”——What one zealous reader did is told in a note from Darlington: “Last year
myself and daughter read the course alone. Before the beginning of the present year I
put a short article explaining the C. L. S. C. scheme into our local paper, and called a
meeting of all those who would like to take the course. The result is that we now have a
circle of thirteen. There will probably be an increase next year.”
A beautiful souvenir of the Longfellow celebration of the “Vincent” circle at Milwaukee,
Minn., has reached our table. The memorial was a perfect success, and with justice the
members felt very proud of it. The “Vincent” is another circle sprung from the faithfulness
of a single reader, a lady who in 1883 began the course, and in 1884 had gathered a
circle of twenty-two about her, each one of whom responds promptly and faithfully to all
calls for class work.——The “Quintette” of “Plymouth Rocks” at Duluth have been doing
the regular work since October, in informal meetings led by the different members in
turn. They expect soon to change their name to suit an enlarged membership.——The
“Gleaners,” of Zumbrota, with a goodly number of their friends were treated to an
interesting program of exercises on Shakspere day. The “Gleaners” are a power in their
community, and have, they say, “enough enthusiasm to fill up an evening without
refreshments.”——At Hastings a circle began life in October with sixteen regular members,
besides several local members. The class has had a sad break in its ranks by the death of
Miss Kate Stebbins, a bright young woman who had undertaken the C. L. S. C. studies.
——St. Paul bids fair to become exactly what its Chautauquans are aiming to make it, a
great C. L. S. C. center. To this end a “Central” circle has been formed in the city,
composed of six circles, the “Wakouta,” “Itasca,” “Dayton’s Bluff,” “Plymouth,” “Canadian
American,” and “Pioneer,” and numbering in all over an hundred members. The “Central”
circle celebrated Longfellow’s day by a very enjoyable program, and is trying to make
arrangements for other joint entertainments. The St. Paul friends are proud of having two
of their number prominent at Lake de Funiak, Mrs. Emily Huntington Miller, one of the
founders of the “Pioneer” circle, and Dr. L. G. Smith, pastor of the First M. E. Church.——
The home of the Minnesota Summer Assembly, Waseca, is the center of a stirring circle of
twenty members. The increase in the circle is largely due to the efforts of the Rev. A. H.
Gillet and his colaborers at the Assembly, which met at this lake for the first time last
year. The “North Star,” of Waseca, offers a very attractive plan of work.
The Iowa friends come in as strong as ever. Winterset reports a new circle of twenty-
five members, with a weekly program published in the local paper, and growing zeal.——
Dunlap reports another which is in its second year, and which numbers twenty-three. An
especially good program was arranged by these friends recently. A number of their
members visited New Orleans the past winter, and an evening of sketches of Exposition
sights was arranged.——“Sunny Side Straight Line,” of Hamburg, is composed of two
school ma’ams. They meet whenever and wherever it is convenient; after five p. m.,
before eight a. m., at the gate or in the kitchen. Pleased with the course, they are looking
forward to joining the “Pansies” at Chautauqua in 1887.——The Afton circle had the
pleasure of celebrating its first memorial day on April 23d. They succeeded so admirably
that Addison day was observed as well. The Afton circle pays a kind tribute to the work:
“We are glad the Chautauqua Idea struck us, but sorry it failed to reach us sooner. It has
been of untold benefit to us, opening to our view new fields of thought, and arousing
new resolutions for the future.”——At Blanchard the “Pansy” class gave an entertainment
not long ago for the benefit of their work. An elocutionist was secured and after the
performance the C. L. S. C. and its aims were presented to the audience. The circle
realized a nice little sum from their venture, which they propose to turn into maps, charts
and the like for their room. An excellent idea.——Kindly mention we must make, also, of
the Decorah circle. Like all Iowa circles, it “grows.” The secretary writes: “We began last
year with quite a small number, but have kept adding to our numbers until there are
eighteen now who are reading the course. Our circle is composed entirely of ladies, the
most of whom have work that takes up the greater part of their time. We have very
pleasant meetings and derive much pleasure and profit from them.”——Washington, Iowa,
has a circle of thirty members. It has been holding weekly meetings for over two years.
At the close of last year this circle held a picnic with the Fairfield circle, and this year they
have distinguished themselves by an elaborate Longfellow entertainment. “Miles
Standish” was read and illustrated by tableaux. The Washingtonians certainly displayed
extraordinary artistic ability in arranging one, at least, of these tableaux. They wanted
“Priscilla” led in on her “Snow-white Bull,” but how to manage the “palfrey” was a
question. Here is how they did it: A long narrow table was padded, the legs wrapped, a
head with suitable horns constructed, and the whole thing finally wrapped with white
cotton-flannel. “Necessity is the mother of invention.”——A beautiful memorial comes
from one of the members of the circle at Humboldt. “My mother, aged eighty-one years,
died March 4th. She was the first one in this county to become interested in the C. L. S.
C. She made her eldest grandson a member, bought the books for the first year’s course,
and read them first, marking whatever she wished him to notice. At our class meetings
she always selected from the Bible the chapter to be read at the opening exercises.… A
grand helper has left us.”——At Keosauqua a circle was organized as long ago as ’82. Of
the original eight members only three are left, but the circle has more than held its own,
now numbering twelve or more members. They are fortunate in having as a leader a
teacher of unusual ability.——At Tabor a circle was organized last September, which, with
a goodly membership of interested members, is doing excellent work. A Professor from
Tabor College has helped this circle much by performing for them chemical experiments.
The Chautauqua work has lost one of its strongest members in Cooperstown, Dakota,
this year, in the sad death of Mrs. H. G. Pickett, who accidentally shot herself in her
husband’s bank in that town. She was an ardent admirer of the Chautauqua work, and
her life a true exposition of the truths that the C. L. S. C. is striving to bring into the
practical every-day life of its members.——A spirited Shakspere anniversary was
celebrated at Faulkton. The parlors where the circle met were filled to overflowing with
delighted guests, and full exercises of tragedy, song and jest were carried out.
The “Kate F. Kimball” circle, of Minneapolis, Kansas, started on its career in October last
with a membership of thirteen. Their plan is simple and practical—a sure way of
introducing conversation. Each member is required to prepare five questions on the
readings, which are given to the circle, and which are then discussed. This method would
serve a good purpose in the conversazione.——The Kansas City Journal suggests that
Tuesday night in that city ought to be called Chautauqua night, as nearly a dozen circles
meet there on that evening.——The “Clytie,” of Arkansas City has had a severe trial of its
loyalty this year. Malarial fever has broken their ranks so that they have been able to hold
but a few meetings. It does not dampen their ardor though, and they express all honor
and gratitude to Superintendent and Counselors for their wise help. The “Clytie” joins
another Kansas circle in protesting against the name “Plymouth Rocks.” This is the
“Greenwood,” of Eureka, which declares, “We can not become reconciled to it.” The
“Greenwood” does not, however, allow its pleasure in the reading to be spoiled by the
class name, for it writes: “Chautauqua gives us a broad departure from our daily cares
and ruts which is very refreshing, and we trust it will be of benefit to us.”——Here is a
five-year-old Kansas town, Everest, of five hundred inhabitants, with a circle of sixteen
members. Here is certainly a chance, with such a start, to grow up with the country.——
Greetings to the class of ’86, and to all Chautauquans, come from the circle at
Leavenworth. This circle has ten members. Its chief circle interest is the question box,
which frequently leads to a lively discussion. They are favored in having secured an
excellent leader, the Rev. J. A. Monteith. Several of this class are reading the White Seal
course.
There are in Nebraska nineteen circles of the C. L. S. C. A strong effort is being made to
secure at the Assembly at Crete, in July, a full attendance of representatives from all
these organizations. Accept a word of advice from The Chautauquan. Go to Crete if you can
get there. It will pay you in more than double measure to take part in the exercises of C.
L. S. C. day. Of the nineteen circles of Nebraska, the one at Lincoln takes the lead, we
believe, in numbers. It has reached forty-seven, with an average attendance of about
forty. In recognition of the literary character of the circle the Superintendent of Public
Instruction in Lincoln has kindly opened a room in the new State House to the circle. The
Lincoln circle, as befits its location at the capital of the State, is taking active measures to
make the C. L. S. C. day at Crete a success. Already they have attracted public attention
by a unique Shaksperean festival, at which a number of guests were entertained.——
Another of the nineteen is at Falls City, an ’88 offspring. The circle has seventeen
members. An executive committee of three appoints instructors for the review of each
meeting, following the plan in The Chautauquan. The class observed Longfellow day with
appropriate exercises. Our Falls City friends have chosen a name with a meaning
—“Misselts”—“I will surmount all difficulties.” Not an easy name to take, by any means,
but the “Misselts” is made up of school teachers mainly, and what can they not do?——
An addition to the Nebraska circles is made at Holdrege. It came about in this way, writes
a friend: “I left my home circle in Indiana in December last and started out to ‘try my
fortune in the far West.’ I first stopped at Odell, Nebraska, and tried to introduce the
‘Chautauqua Idea’ there. I found it was already being talked of, and by the efficient
efforts of a gentleman interested in the movement, a grand, earnest circle was organized.
In February I came to Holdrege, the ‘Magic City,’ as it is called, naturally expecting every
one to be interested in the C. L. S. C. I had almost decided to give up the course,
because I was so busy, when I met a teacher of the town—a ‘Pansy.’ We have formed a
circle, and next year instead of having the smallest number possible, expect to compare
favorably with any in the State.”——Blair has a circle of twenty-two members this year. A
small circle has been at work in the town for two years, but this year its membership has
increased in remarkable proportions. Blair is situated within sight of the Missouri River,
and from this noble stream the circle calls itself the “‘Souri.” Occasional parlor meetings
for invited friends are enlarging the work rapidly in Blair.
Already we have given our readers hints of the noble way in which Professor Spring
has been representing Chautauqua at New Orleans. His last public exploit was the
Shaksperean Anniversary. From a local paper we learn of the success of the undertaking:
“The thirty-first birthday of the Stratford-on-Avon bard was celebrated last evening at the
Exposition. The ceremonies were gotten up almost entirely by Prof. Edward A. Spring,
director of the Chautauqua classes in sculpture. It was hoped that Judge Braughn and
other local gentlemen learned in Shaksperean lore would have been present, but a heavy
storm prevented. The ceremonies, however, were very successful, though briefer than
had been intended. They were presided over by ex-Governor Hoyt, from far-away
Wyoming, chief of the jury on education, who made a brief but eloquent oration in
commencing the proceedings. He dwelt on the incomparable greatness of Shakspere and
the immense influence his writings have had on the many millions of people speaking the
English tongue, and showed how, as the centuries roll on and as the English speaking
peoples grow and multiply, the luster that attaches to his name must grow brighter and
brighter. Following Governor Hoyt, Professor Spring made a neat little speech, setting
forth the benefits accruing to those connected with the great educational institutions with
which he was connected, and how appropriate it was for the Chautauquans to include in
the fifteen great events they commemorate, the birth of Shakspere. Mr. Spring then
introduced Mrs. Florence Anderson Clark, of Bonham, Texas, a member of the C. L. S. C.,
who closed the evening by reading an original poem on Shakspere.”
From the far western frontier of Texas, at Albany, comes this letter: “Three of us
associated ourselves together the first of October to read the Required Readings of the C.
L. S. C. In January we were joined by two more. Our method of study has been to have
each member originate twenty questions, to present at each weekly meeting to the
members, who on the following week take them up to answer and discuss. The circle has
been quietly but seriously working. The benefit of having a certain course of reading has
already been felt, and we believe that many others will be influenced to join us the next
year.”
Colorado is represented by a circle of seventeen at Delta, a growing young town
blessed with many people of culture and refinement. The circle belongs to the ranks of
the ’88s, and is proceeding with the vigor characteristic of the class. They luckily can
introduce good music as a part of each evening’s program. By the secretary of the Delta
circle a word of experience is added: “After pursuing the course of study nearly four
years, I can add my testimony as to its great inspiration to all who are systematically
keeping it up.”
Carson, Nevada, has the “Sierra Nevada” circle of twenty-five ’88s, a vigorous young life
that, in spite of delays in getting books, and the discouragements in starting, is getting
along famously. The spread of the C. L. S. C. in the West depends very largely upon the
organized circle. The “Sierra Nevadas” have a summer work of bringing in recruits, as
well as of making up back lessons.
The flags are flying from the “Green” circle, of Portland, Oregon, and “we are getting
along splendidly,” is their watchword. They write that they are growing more and more
enthusiastic, and that the circle is becoming “a joy and a feast of good things” to them
all. “Green” circle had a brilliant Longfellow celebration last winter. The feature of it was a
Longfellow picture gallery, representing the principal heroes and heroines. A good idea to
remember when we come around to February 27, 1886.
The remarkable Floral Festival held in Sacramento, California, on May 5th, in honor of
Mrs. M. E. Crocker, to whom that city owes so much for her munificent charities and
endowments, was participated in by two of the local circles of that city. The “Sacramento”
circle sent an elegant tribute to the festival. On a bust about three feet high, decorated
with flowers and bearing the letters C. L. S. C., was erected a gateway with gates ajar;
within was an open book. The “Vincent” circle sent one equally unique—a pyramid of
flowers surmounted with a flower-wreathed pole, from which was suspended a banner of
flowers.
The “Alma” circle of San Diego, California, consists of seventeen members of the class
of ’87. Longfellow’s day was a very pleasant occasion with them. The president tells us:
“The good effects of the reading are already to be seen among our numbers; a desire for
good and profitable reading being manifested more and more as we pursue the
course.”——The Chautauquans of San José had a very interesting meeting in celebration
of the “Bard of Avon.” A most excellent program was rendered. One of the leading
features was a very able critical review of “As You Like It,” read by a lady of the circle.
 THE C. L. S. C. CLASSES.

CLASS OF 1885.—“THE INVINCIBLES.”

“Press on, reaching after those things which are before.”

OFFICERS.
President—J. B. Underwood, Meriden, Conn.
Vice President—C. M. Nichols, Springfield, Ohio.
Treasurer—Miss Carrie Hart, Aurora, Ind.
Secretary—Miss M. M. Canfield, Washington, D. C.
Executive Committee—Officers of the class.

There will be excursions from Chautauqua to Niagara Falls every few days during the
season, and there will be no difficulty in securing ample and satisfactory accommodations
for the class of 1885, or any portion of it.

The challenge of our classmate in Kansas brings forth the following from Maryland: “I
see in the May Chautauquan a chivalric old gentleman hailing from Kansas, claiming to be
the oldest member of the class—being born in the year the battle of Waterloo was
fought. Now, I have entered on my seventy-fifth summer, and remember distinctly the
battle of Waterloo. But, he claims also to be the youngest. Now, if I shall have the
pleasure of meeting him at Chautauqua, and he is so disposed, we will run a foot race.
But, really, this is the time for ‘grave and reverend seigniors’ to speak out. Who comes
next?”

Nebraska.—I trust that I shall be numbered with those who shall “pass under the
Arches” at dear Chautauqua this summer, thereby proving that I am one who is earnestly
striving to “Press on, reaching after those things which are before.” The C. L. S. C. means
a great deal to me. These magic letters are the key which unlocks all the enthusiasm of
my being. These four years have been a new revelation to me, and have been of deep,
abiding interest, and a well-spring of joy. Last year my dearest friend, a devoted
Chautauquan, a member of the class of ’85, a thorough “Invincible,” in every sense
where right was involved, went on before. Since that time I have read alone, but hope to
be one of the successful many who shall pass under the Arches and “begin” again,
instead of ending on Commencement day.
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