Part 3 (1/2)

It has often been said by superficial observers: ”O, yes, any one can write shorthand, but how many stenographers can read what they have written?”

Perhaps there have been grounds for such allegations; but have these ever taken into consideration the mult.i.tudes of stenographers all over the world who do successfully read their notes?

Look at the voluminous reports of congressional, political and other speeches, appearing in the daily papers from time to time; to say nothing of the hundreds of folios of evidence daily reported in our courts and accurately transcribed.

Do not these sufficiently refute the a.s.sertion?

We feel sure the charge will never be brought against any of our cla.s.s, to each of whom the writing out of her notes has been made as essential a point as taking down.

In closing, let me again, in the name of the Cla.s.s of '89, extend a cordial welcome to you all, and let us trust, when we have pa.s.sed from the immediate influence of these surroundings, and have entered upon the career for which the studies of the past Winter have been but preparatory, we shall continue to merit your kind approbation.

Cla.s.s Poem

BY MISS ISABELLE KIERNAN.

_Cla.s.s of '89._

Good people all, both old and young, a.s.sembled at this time, To aid in bringing to a close, The Cla.s.s of eighty-nine;

We beg you will be lenient With our efforts here to-night, Ignore all faults, and note the good,-- This would be but polite.

This cla.s.s of ours united here, Ere long shall cease to be; A thought which strikes a tender chord That vibrates mournfully.

Though truly glad to know our work Has met success at last, Yet many a very pleasant hour In study has been pa.s.sed.

And on these hours in concert spent, Shall memory fondly dwell, When we in divers paths have turned, But where, Oh, who can tell?

Again we'll see that school-room scene, Our teacher at the head, Again we'll ply our pencils hard, As fast the words are read.

Our teacher's patience oft we've tried, And oft have vexed him sore, While he strove us expert to make In stenographic lore.

Oh, thanks to you, our faithful friend, For kindness you have shown, And patience too, with which the seeds Of knowledge you have sown.

And in the work we undertake, We'll to the _Mason_ bring The credit,--who within our minds Has built this wondrous thing.

Kind benefactors, we extend Our grat.i.tude sincere; For all the opportunities, Enjoyed throughout the year.

May your good work, crowned with success, Its blessings still bestow, On many who, through your kind deeds, Shall useful women grow.

A harvest rich of grateful hearts, Most surely you shall find; Such as is due to those who strive To elevate mankind.

And now farewell to one and all, Teacher and cla.s.smates, too; Hoping that future days may bring, Much happiness to you.

A Cla.s.s History

BY MISS EUGENIA E. LLOYD.