We honor the memory of the pioneer heroes who invaded the forests. Amid privations and labors, such as later generations know little of, they founded an empire more magnificant than the storied nations of Greece and Rome. The latter ravaged peoples and countries and made serfs. The former built school houses and made men and women. We envy the very few of our old schoolmates, who will be present at the reunion and bespeak for all a joyous time.
Pleasant thoughts surround the memories of our boyhood days.
So as we near the time when we will leave this earth and are gathered to our fathers, the scenes of our youth loom up with renowned lustre. Our interest in the town of our nativity grows more fervent as time goes on. For him no minstrels raptures swell. High though his titles, proud his name, Boundless his wealth as wish can claim, Despite those titles, power and pelf, The wretch concentered all in self, Living, shall forfeit fair renown. And doubly dying shall go down, To the vile dust from whence he sprung, Unwept, unhonored and unsung.