Arkansas true Democrat., 1857-08-11
Examination at "The Camden Female
 Institute

MR. EDIroR-Ever interested in and anxious about the progress and advancement of edu- cation, we laid aside our daily employment. and, on the 29th and Both of July, attended the examination of the young ladies of "the Camden Female Institute" which, since it's origin, has been under the guidance of that able and truly worthy man, Dr. Hartwell- Every one is familiar with the regular routine of things at female examinations, hence 'tis unnecessary to mention the various features of the system of instruction here pursued, much less the high credit with which the various classes acquitted themselves. But we noticed one feature to which we would call special at tention, viz: the estimate that was placed on common written arithmetic. 'Tis common opinion, that female has no use for any knowl- edge of this branch-that she has no reason, no abstraction, and could not learn it even if she was instructed; and on this hy pothesis, so soon as she can read, nay sometimes before you find her studying physiology, botany, To- glc, rhetoric, and probably Abercrombie's Intel lectual Philosophy phy-from neither of which she able to derive the first clear, practical idea Such, however, was not the case here Each class Was well trained in this important branch and afforded ample proof that the female is not only capable of comprehending, but of making high attachments in arithmetic. The two classes examined Thursday morning, acquitted themselves with much credit one, though quite small, manifested clear knowledge of frac- tious in the mostdiflicult and complicated forms. But we need not specify classes, for all evinced clear understanding of their respective stu dies, and seeing what we did, we can safely re- commend the teachers of this institution to those who wish their daughte well instructed in the primary branches of education But while we mention their qualtc ations, for lay ing the foundation, we would not have the pub lie forget that this institution also has every facility for completing the superstructure- French, drawing, painting, music, etc., are all successfully taught-you also find here an ap- paratus consisting of an air-pump electrical machine, pair of globes, microscope, and many other philosophical instruments, without which a student can not get clear idea of many things met with in course of study. The concert, which occupied quite conspicuous place in the picture, came off on Thursday evening.
 This department is under the care of Prof. Lindon. The performances of his pupils speak well for his abilities, as an instructor, and at the same time tell of their own attention and progress Two hours soon passed away; the ten o'clock bell sounded the signal of our sepa ration. But as this session closes Dr. Hartwell's connection with the school, he rose, with his slvery locks and dignifed form, to bid adieu. His voice was parental, his countenance beamel with love and affection, and the purest anxe- ties of his heart seem to go out after the tender young, now about to go from his fathers and faithful guardianship. He spoke but few words, but twas enough; tears the sure evil dence that he reigned in the hearts of those he instructed, bedewed the fair cheeks of his pu. pills, and as he pronounced, farewell patrons. friends and dear pupils" the whole audience seemed to breathe forth Farewell venerable principal, farewell aged father, may Heaven smile on thy latter days; may you go down to your grave in peace, and your spirit be waited to the regions of endless bliss"
 Although Dr. Hartwell's services will no longer be connected with the lnsttute.n vet the corps of teachers are in every way ably qualified to perform the duties of the school.
 Mrs. Hathaway's reputation as an instructress and 9overness, Is too we'll known to need any praise from our pen and Mrs. Hay gave ample evidence on examination day. of her abilities Dr. Hartwel advised his patrons to support them, and expressed an assurance that they would not be disappointed. He trusts they will have full school and be sustained and patronlzed as their abilities and the facilities afforded by the Institute richly merit.
 LIVY.