But the chief interest centered in the drama, that brought a crowded house on Wednesday evening, and was repeated the next week.

Public examinations were held for three days, beginning Friday the 22d, when a good number of friends visited the different rooms, noted the work of the pupils, and shared with the teachers the quizzing of the pupils, who seemed to enjoy their part.  Not the least interesting because thoroughly practical was the display of garments, stitching and mending in the sewing-room; and, in the blacksmith and the carpenter shops, articles manufactured by the boys.  The school ground gives evidence of workmen—­attending to fences, repairs on buildings, a shop, and two pump-shelters erected.

The catalogue just issued lists 287 students, a gain of twenty-four per cent. in two years; gives a history of Burrell from its start in 1869, and among former students names all the lady teachers of the city school, besides five on other faculties in Selma.

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BLOWING ROCK, N.C.

By Mrs. Ellen R. Dorsett.

Skyland Institute at Blowing Rock, N.C., has during the year continually had in mind the saying, “Children should be seen and not heard,” and so has not lifted up her voice to report her work.  But the child is now six years old, is growing in beauty and strength, and needs some attention.

The year has been one of good things.  Our pupils have been of a better class than in previous years, and better adapted to go out and teach.  Our attendance has been more regular, our tuition has been paid as a rule, and, although epidemics have prevailed all about us, we have lived under the banner of the ninety-first Psalm and “no evil has befallen us.”

Our closing exercises consisted of reports from our different organizations by a representative from each; class histories, and an industrial exhibit on Tuesday afternoon, June 2.  The following morning Rev. J.L.  Murphy gave us an address on the topic, “Wanted—­A Man.”  It was able, interesting, and inspiring.  Mr. Murphy has for several years been president of a girls’ college in Hickory, N.C., and we were fortunate in securing his services.

We have more applications for places in our home and school next year than we have places, and just as soon as that debt is paid, the North will hear a lusty cry from this child for room, more room.

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ENFIELD, N.C.

By Rev. T.S.  Inborden.

The Joseph K. Brick Agricultural, Industrial and Normal School, located at Enfield, N.C., celebrated its first anniversary May 29.  It was a noteworthy occasion for many who had not before visited the old plantation under the new regime.

The exercises began at eight o’clock p.m., but as early as three o’clock the people began to gather.  They came on foot, in ox carts, wagons and on bicycles.  They were plain farmers, young teachers, politicians and merchants.  All were enthusiastic in their interest in the school.  The exercises were full of interest and the outlook for another year never seemed brighter.  Another year, God willing, we will show a great advance.