This joyous day, bringing with it pleasing recollections of the past; and bright anticipations of the future, was welcomed by the ‘Clionian Society.’ In the afternoon the Society assembled in their Hall below, and about 4 o’clock, accompanied by the Utopian Society, they proceeded to the Hall above, where a very respectable audience awaited them. After being seated the exercises were commenced with prayer by Mr. Charles H. Holloway an Honorary Member, after its conclusion, the President ‘Pro-tem’ announced W. H. Gailliard as annual orator. The speaker now arose, and appropriately introduced his subject with a few preliminary remarks and then proceeded to elucidate the manner in which Knowledge may be obtained, and eloquently portrayed the happy effects resulting therefrom, his subject was frequently brightened by the many striking historical illustrations brought forward, which rendered ^it^ doubly impressive, after enchaining the attention of the audience for a considerable time on this most interesting subject, he failed not to congratulate his fellow members on the return of another Anniversary, and to recommend to them [the] principle of sef self-application as the true path to Knowledge and consequently usefulness. Having concluded he sat down amid repeated applauses ^which^ assured him of the manner in which his interesting address was received by the delighted audience. The exercises were then closed with the Benediction, and this bright ^assembly^ left for their homes saturated¹ with a rich intellectual repast. The Society then retreated to their hall below, when after a short time they too separated, but not without a mind doubly encouraged to pursue the path of ‘learning and mental improvement’ which has, and ever will be the sole object of the Clionian Debating Society.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

The society held its regular monthly meeting on the above date, it was called to order by the President ‘Pro-tem.’ The first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last regular meeting and of the Anniversary Celebration was read and approved. The President ‘Pro-tem’ having been chosen to fill the seat, on account of the Vice President’s absence, Mr. W. H. Gailliard was then appointed to ^act^ as Vice President. The secretary read the report of the Committee appointed to examine his books, which report being favorable, was unanimously adopted. Mr. Cardozo moved that a copy of Mr. Gailliard’s annual oration be requested of him, which being seconded, was put to the house, and unanimously carried. The regular debates now commenced, and was warmly kept up for a considerable time, and would have been continued to exhaustion, were it not that the limited time allotted, checked its further continuance. After its conclusion the President decided in favor of the affirmative. The Committee of Queries handed [in] their questions from among which the following was chosen, “Which had the greatest influence on Grecian character their Poetry or Philosophy.” Mr. R. L. Deas was read out on the affirmative ^first^ and Mr. W. H. Gailliard on the latter portion of the question. The Polls were now opened for the election of Annual Orator for 1852 upon the managers counting the votes Messrs. Weston and Cardozo were found to have an equal number of votes, the President therefore casted his vote in favor of the former, he was then declared duly elected. the contribution list were called and considerably cleared. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The reporter made his report, the last roll was called and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

But one short month had elapsed when the Clionian Society (true to her purpose) had again assembled in their hall on the above date. The meeting was called to order by the President. The first roll called, and the minutes of the last meeting read and approved. Mr. Horry was called upon to fill the seat of the Vice-President. The regular debates then commenced and was carried on with increasing interest and life, till when at its height, and the minds of all became warmed in the subject, while all was life and animation the adjourning hour arrived, and both speakers and hearers had to give up their pleasures for the time being. After a short interval the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the latter portion of the question. The Committee handed in their questions, from among which the following was chosen, “Were the allied nations of Europe right justifiable in banishing Napoleon.”² Mr. Hyams was Page 68 →appointed on the affirmative, and Mr. Horry on the negative of the question. Mr. W. O. Weston annual orator ^elect^ for ’52; offered his resignation to that office—which by the unanimous voice of the body was not accepted, but upon being again urged by him, it was concluded that the office was vacant, and that they would go into an election for annual orator at the next meeting. The Secretary gave notice that at the next meeting the general election of officers for the eleventh term would take place. All business of importance being now concluded, the reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

A regular meeting of this Society was held on the above date. It was called to [order] by the President pro-tem, the first roll was called and the proceedings of the last meeting read and approved. Not having obtained a quorum until a comparatively late hour, it was moved that the regular debates which were to have taken place be deffered [sic] ’till ^the meeting^ after the election and installation of officers, ^which^ was seconded and unanimously carried. The Society then went immediately into an election of officers for the eleventh term. And upon report of Managers the following were declared elected (See officers list). The votes were also taken for Annual Orator ^for 1852^ which resulted in the election of Mr. S. W. Beaird. Upon motion of Mr. S. W. Beaird next Monday evening was appointed as the time for the installation of officers elect. He also moved that as the President and Vice President are absent from the city, that some one of the members be chosen to act as President on that occasion, which ^was^ seconded and unanimously carried. Whereupon Mr. W. H. Gailliard was proposed, and ^also^ elected. Mr. E. G. Beaird then presented Moore’s Poetical Works, a most valuable gift from Miss Frances P. Bonneau to the Clionian Society.³ Whereupon Mr. S. W. Beaird moved that a Committee of Six be appointed to return the thanks of the society by letter to the kind donor, which was seconded and unanimously carried, the President then appointed the following gentlemen, viz. S. W. Beaird, Chairman, E. G. Beaird, H. Cardozo Jr., W. H. Gailliard, S. J. Maxwell and R. L. Deas. The President also appointed the following gentlemen to examine the Books of the Secretary and Treasurer, and to report concerning them at the next meeting, viz. S. W. Beaird, W. H. Gailliard, and E. G. Beaird. No more of business appearing to demand attention the reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

An extra meeting of this Society was held on the above date for the purpose of installing the officers elect. The meeting was called to order by the President, the first roll called and the proceedings of the last regular meeting read and approved. The committee appointed to examine the Books of the Secretary & Treasurer made a favorable report thereon. The regular installation now commenced by the inauguration of the new President, who after having accepted the high and honorable charge entrusted to him, proceeded to install all the subordinate officers successively, all of whom expressed a cheerful willingness to perform any duty which the Society’s welfare would demand of them, and thus ended the installation. The President then appointed Mr. W. O. Weston Chairman on the committee of general interests. Mr. S. W. Beaird notified the Society of his acceptance of the high and important trust committed to him as its Annual Orator for ‘52.’ Mr. W. H. Gailliard moved that the constitution be read for the instruction of the members on the first meeting in April which upon being amended by Mr. S. W. Beaird that it be read after the hearing of the “Private Oration” was seconded and carried. The Secretary notified the Society that on Monday evening 31st March, the regular debates which were necessarily deferred will then take place. All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

This Society held another ‘extra’ meeting on the above date for the purpose of hearing the deferred debates. it was called to order by the President. The first roll called, and the minutes of the last extra meeting read and approved. The regular debates then commenced, was warmly carried on, and ceased only on account of the expiration of the time allotted to it, after which, the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the negative portion of the question. The Committee of Queries then handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen, “Have the late Revolutions of Europe tended much to benefit the condition of the people of that Continent.”⁴ Mr. Hampton was read out as debatant on the affirmative, and Mr. Maxwell on the negative of the question. Mr. Deas presented to the Society two ^very^ valuable pamphlets, which upon motion was received and the thanks of the Society ^unanimously^ returned to the kind donor. Notice was given that on next Monday evening the 7th “proximo,”⁵ the “regular” Oration before the Society would then be delivered. The Chairman on the “Committee of General interests” handed in his list Page 70 →of those who should assist him in the performance of the duties incumbent on that office. All business of importance being now concluded, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned. H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

With their usual promptness the Clionian Society held a regular Monthly meeting on the above date. It was called to order by the Vice President—the first roll called—and the proceedings of the last ‘extra’ meeting read and approved of. The Vice President then appointed Mr. A. L. Horry as President ‘Protem’ who after having taken the chair, arose and announced to the audience the name of Mr. S. J. Maxwell as the Orator for the evening. The speaker then arose and introduced that most interesting subject “Education” with a few preparatory remarks, and then proceeded to show with great success the importance of Learning in preparing Man to act his part in the great drama of life and in opening his mental eyes to the works of nature particularly as exhibited in the Starry firmament above, which the happy speaker proved to be the source of the greatest exercise of the mind, and the highest flights of the Imagination. After having illustrated his subject with many beautiful figures, and striking facts, he closed his excellent address, which from beginning to end was characterised by great depth of thought, and a flow of elegant language, that would do honour to one of greater advantages, and thus he sat down amid the applause of the audience, after which Mr. W. H. Gailliard arose and paid a deservedly high compliment to the speaker and then moved that a copy of his address be requested, which was ^seconded^ by Mr. S. W. Beaird, put to the house, and unanimously carried. The President accordingly made the request, which the speaker promised to comply with in a few days. Mr. S. W. Beaird, Chairman on the committee of thanks to Miss F. P. Bonneau presented to the Society a copy of his letter written to that Lady which was unanimously received by the body. All business of importance being now concluded, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and this meeting of members both Honorary and private adjourned by motion.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

A regular meeting of this Society was held on the above date, after being called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last meeting read and confirmed. The Vice President and Secretary being absent on account of sickness their seats were respectively filled Page 71 →by Messrs. S. W. Beaird and W. O. Weston. Mr. S. W. Beaird then moved that the regular debates for this evening be deferred to the next regular meeting, which being seconded was carried. According to previous notice the polls were now opened for the election of Semi-Annual Orator. the votes were polled, counted, and upon report of Managers Mr. R. L. Deas was declared elected unanimously. Mr. S. W. Bea[i]rd now moved that for the present our meetings be changed from once a month to twice a month and that it be the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the Month, Mr. E. G. Beaird seconded the motion but moved the latter portion by substituting the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the Mondayth which being acceded to was put to the house and carried. Mr. S. W. Beaird notified the Society of his intention to bring before it at its next meeting the alteration of an amendment of Bye Laws determining the time of reading the Constitution quarterly, that it be changed to every installation meeting as being the most convenient and proper time. The Semi-annual and Monthly contribution list were called, and partly paid. All business of importance being now concluded, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

This Society held its regular Semi-Monthly [meeting] on the evening of the above date. it was called to order by the President, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last meeting read and confirmed. The Vice President being absent from the city Mr. A. L. Horry was called on to fill his seat. Mr. R. L. Deas then arose and expressed to the Society his extreme reluctance to inform them that he would be unable to serve them in the capacity of Semi-Annual Orator, and therefore begged that they would accept his declination. The time now arrived for the commencement of the regular debates, the appointed ^ debatants^ was called out and reported to be absent. Whereupon the President arose and opened the house for the members at large, the chanced⁶ was embraced, the debates commenced and was carried on with considerable warmth until the last moment allowable was used, after its close, the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the affirmative portion of the question. The committee of Queries now produced their questions from among which the following was chosen “Will the World’s Fair bring about the contemplated union of intercourse among the nations of the earth.”⁷ Mr. W. E. Marshall was read out on the affirmative, and Mr. W. O. Weston on the negative of the question. Mr. S. W. Beaird explained to the Society the alteration to the amendment of Bye Laws he intended to offer but for the want of time he would defer ’till the Page 72 →next meeting. No more of business appearing to demand attention, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called and the Society on motion adjourned. H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

On the evening of the above date, this Society held its regular Semi monthly meeting. It was called to order by the President, the first [roll] was called, and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The Vice President being absent from the city, Mr. E. G. Beaird was called on to fill his seat. The regular debates now commenced and not one moment had elapsed when the sound of voices were not heard successively on each side of the question, and such was the warmth with which it was supported that time was forgotten in the excitement of debate. but as all things must have an end this had to meet the same fate. when after its close, the President arose and announced his decision—which was in favor of the affirmative side of the question. The committee of Queries now produced their questions, from which the following was chosen “Which is the most responsible for an article the Composer or the Publisher.” Mr. S. W. Beaird was read out on the first—and Mr. E. G. Beaird on the latter portion of the question. It was now proposed that the letter of an applicant which was in possession of one of the members be now brought before the Society, but it being found ^that^ the possessor had forgotten to bring it, It was moved by Mr. H. Cardozo Jr. that an extra meeting be called for the consideration of the letter, and that next Monday evening be the appointed time, which was seconded, and carried. According to previous notice Mr. S. W. Beaird brought forward an alteration to the amendment which requires the “Secretary to read the Constitution quarterly for the benefit of the Society” which alteration reads thus—The Reader shall read the Constitution at every installation meeting for the benefit of the Society. the amendment was put to the house and unanimously adopted. All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

An ‘extra’ meeting of this Society was held on the evening of the above date. being called to order by the President, the first roll was called and the proceedings of the last regular meeting read and approved. The President then received a letter directed to the officers and Members of the Clionian Debating Society, through Mr. W. H. Gaillard which was refferred [sic] to the Secretary and upon being opened was found to contain an application for membership from Page 73 →Mr. Alexander Forrester, concerning whom the committee on general interests made a favorable report. he was then ballotted for, and declared elected. Mr. S. W. Beaird gave due notice that at our next regular meeting he would bring forward some other alterations to the Constitution. The Secretary also gave due notice that our next meeting would be the regular time for the general election of officers for the 12th term. All business of importance being concluded, the reporter made his report, the last roll called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

A regular Semi-monthly meeting of this Society was held on the above date. The first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last (extra) meeting were read and approved. The President and Vice President being absent, their seats were respectively filled by Messrs. Gailliard and Hampton. The regular debates now commenced—was spiritedly carried on—and ended only when it could be no longer continued. The President “Pro-tem” now arose and announced his decision as being in favor of the latter portion of the question. Due notice having been given that this would be the time for the election of officers for the 12th term—The Committee of General Interests accordingly opened the ballot box, and after the votes were deposited—and counted, the following gentlemen were declared elected (See officers list). the next meeting was appointed as the regular installation meeting. No more business appearing to demand attention, the reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society adjourned by motion.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

With her usual promptness, this Society assembled on the evening of the above date. It was called to order by the President—the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last meeting read and approved. Mr. Forrester the member elect being present—the reader proceeded to read the Constitution for his hearing—and after the conclusion of which he came forward—signed his name—Paid the ‘initial fee’ and thereby became a regular and respected member of the Clionian Society. The regular installation now commenced with a few remarks from the retiring President in which he expressed himself highly gratified to know that the utmost harmony of feeling had prevailed during his official term, and that he had the happy consciousness of having done his duty. he then turned to his successor and congratulated [him] on his election to that important post, and being confidant [sic] that he will be fully able to discharge the duties and Page 74 →responsibilities incumbent on such an office, cheerfully resigned to him the chair. The new President now accepted the dignified office, and assured his fellow members that with the constitution as his guide he would discharge the duties of his office to the best of his abilities. nearly all of of [sic] the officers elect being present—he proceeded to install them successively—all of whom affirmed that they would faithfully perform the duties incumbent on their respective offices. The installation being now concluded, the President proceeded to make several appointments, the first of which was that of Mr. R. L. Deas, as Chairman of the committee on ‘general interests,’ and Messrs. S. W. Beaird, R. L. Deas, and I. A. Hyams as the committee to examine the books of the Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Cardozo having declined serving on the ‘Committee of Queries’ on account of his many duties as Secretary and Treasurer, and his declination having been accepted, it was moved that an election to fill the vacancy take place at the next meeting, which motion was seconded and carried. The Committee of Queries now handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen, “Which exercises the greatest beneficial influence upon society Intellectual or Moral excellence.” Mr. Barrow was read out on the first, and Mr. Cardozo on the latter portion of [the] question. All business of importance being now concluded, the reporter made his report, the last roll was called and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

A regular meeting of this Society was held on the above date. the President called it to order, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last meeting read and approved. The election to fill the vacancy in the committee of Queries now took place, and resulted in the choice of Mr. R. L. Deas. The President then proceeded to install the Vice President (who was absent at the last meeting) and the elected member of the “Committee of Queries” Mr. R. L. Deas, presented to the Society two very valuable pamphlets containing an address from the Hon. W. D. Porter,⁸ and a sermon from the Rev. Mr. Miles.⁹ this repeated manifestation of his regard for the Society was unanimously accepted by them. The regular debates now commenced, and after every possible moment being used on the subject, it was moved that it be deferred to the next meeting for further discussion. The President having decided in favor of the motion, he gave ^due^ notice to that effect. All business of importance being now concluded, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

The above mentioned date brought together the members of this Society for a regular Semi-Monthly meeting. It was called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last meeting read and confirmed. The Vice President being absent Mr. Deas was appointed to fill his seat. The President now gave notice that the floor is opened for the further ^discussion of^ the subject deferred from the last meeting. The chance was embraced, and one after another arose in quick succession each warmly supporting his side, until the last moment allowable had ceased, the President then arose and gave his decision in favor of the latter portion of the question. The ‘Committee’ now handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen—“Has the Intellect been beneficial or deleterious to man’s Happiness?” Mr. J. M. Dereef was appointed on the first and Mr. R. L. Deas on the latter portion of the question. The Chairman on the “Committee to examine the Books of the Secretary and Treasurer” made a favorable report thereon and which was unanimously accepted by the Society. Mr. R. L. Deas “Chairman on the committee of general interests” now presented to the Society a list of such members as he had chosen to serve with him on that committee. All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

Under a sense of advantages enjoyed, the Clionians assembled in their hall on the evening of the above date for a regular meeting—It was called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last regular meeting was read and confirmed. The regular debates now commenced and was carried on with increasing vigor even to the close, after which the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the first portion of the question. The ‘Committee’ now handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen—“Which is the most Advantageous, desirable, and Beneficial—a Married or Single Life.” Mr. Forrester was read out on the first, and Mr. Gaillard on the last portion of the question. The President now informed the Society that he had received through Mr. Forrester a letter which he gave to the Secretary to read who upon opening found that it contained an application for membership in the Society from Mr. Henry J. D. Cardozo. The Constitutional two thirds not being present further action on the letter was postponed. All business of importance being now concluded, the reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

Proving true to the avowed object of the Society its members assembled for another regular meeting,—which was called to order by the President, the first roll called—and the proceedings of the last regular meeting read and confirmed. The time now arrived for the hearing of the regular debates, which was commenced, and was carried on with growing fervor, each side receiving increasing support and proportionately growing in interest, when to the regret of all, it had to cease for want of time, after which the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the first portion of the question. The “Committee” now handed in their questions, from among which the following was chosen—“Was the conduct of Gen. Lopez commendable or condemnable.”¹⁰ Mr. Hyams was read out on the first portion of the question, and Mr. Horry on the last. The President now arose and stated that for two meetings the requisite number to act on a letter of application ^was not present^ and for that reason he requested the secretary to summon the members for an extra meeting to be held on Thursday Night. No further business appearing, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

[The proceedings volume held at the Charleston Library Society ends here. The volume at Duke University begins with a modified version of the minutes of the meeting of September 22, 1851.—Ed.]

Proving true to the avowed object of the Society, its members assembled for a regular meeting, which was called to order by the President, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last regular meeting read and confirmed. The time having now arrived for the hearing of the regular debates, they were accordingly commenced, and were carried on with increasing fervor—each side receiving a warm support, and growing in interest, even to the close (which was hastened for the want of time) after which the President arose and announced his decision, which was in favor of the first portion of the question. The ‘Committee’ now handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen—“Was the conduct of Gen. Lopez commendable or condemnable.” Mr. Hyams was appointed on the first, and Mr. Horry on the last portion of the question. The President now arose and stated that as two meetings had elapsed, and the requisite number not obtained to act on a letter of application which was before the Society, he would request the Secretary to summon the members to attend an ‘extra’ meeting of the Society to be held on Thursday night coming. All business being now finished, the Reporter made his report the last roll was called, and the Society on motion—adjourned.Page 77 →

Page 78 → H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

An “Extra meeting” of this Society was held on the Evening of the above date. After being called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last regular meeting were read and confirmed. The President now arose, and stated that he had received two letters of application for membership from Messrs. H. J. D. Cardozo, and Robert Sanders, which were read by the Secretary, and then handed over to the “Committee on General Interests” who after some consultation made a favorable report thereon the Ballot Box was then opened, the votes deposited, and counted, and the Gentlemen declared elected. The Secretary was then requested to notify the Gentlemen, and summon them to appear at the next meeting. According to previous notice Mr. S. W. Beaird, offered an amendment to the Constitution, which was as follows, Every member failing to debate after being notified, and who shall after a month’s indulgence fail to come forward to offer a constitutional excuse, His fine being levied after, shall be known as legal. Absence from the city, and sickness, the only exceptions. The amendment was put to the house, and carried. Mr. W. H. Gaillard now moved that the Society go immediately into an election for Semi-Annual Orator, which was objected to on account of the lateness of the hour, it was then moved that the election be postponed to the next meeting, which was seconded, and carried. Mr. S. W. Beaird now brought before the Society several valuable works, and a beautiful picture, presented to the same by Mr. A. L. Horry, which was unanimously received. Mr. R. L. Deas then moved that a letter of thanks be returned to the kind donor, which motion was carried. A committee of six was then proposed for that purpose. The President accordingly appointed the following gentlemen. R. L. Deas, Chairman, S. W. Beaird, W. H. Gaillard, H. Cardozo Jr., I. A. Hyams, and A. C. Forrester, Committee. The Secretary then presented the invitation which was received by the Society from the Utopian Association, and which was unanimously accepted. All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

Another “Extra meeting” of this Society was held on the evening of the above date, it was called to order by the President, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last ‘extra’ meeting were read and approved. The President then arose and after stating the objects of the meeting, requested the Reader to read the Constitution to the members elect, (who were then present) which was done by that officer in a distinct manner, they then expressed their approval in a few neat and appropriate remarks, signed their names, paid the “initial fee” and thereby became regular and respected members of the Clionian Fraternity. Mr. S. W. Beaird now proposed an addition to the 10th Resolution which provides for the election of the Succeeding Orator at the same time that the Semi-Annual Oration is delivered. it was seconded, and carried. He also gave notice that at the next meeting, he would bring forward an addition to the 2nd Amendment of the Constitution. Mr. H. Cardozo Jr. offered the following resolution which was seconded, and carried. Resolved, that as [in] order to preserve the distinctiveness of the Clionian Debating Society that whomsoever shall become a member shall in no wise be a member or apply for membership in other Institutions raised and carried on for the support of the same principles. Resolved—That as Mr. W. E. Marshall has already been, and is a member of another Institution of the same character, previous to the passage of the above resolution—he be considered the only exception. All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

The Society held its regular Semi-Monthly meeting on the evening of the above date, it was called to order by the Vice President, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last “extra meeting” were read and approved. The time now arrived for the hearing of the regular debates they were accordingly commenced, and was carried on with much Life and Vigor even to the close, when the President arose, and announced his decision in favor of the first portion of the question. The Committee now handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen—“Whether forms of Government exert any important influence on the growth and character of National Literature.” Mr. S. J. Maxwell was appointed on the affirmative, and Mr. W. E. Marshall on the negative of the question. According to previous notice Mr. S. W. Beaird brought forward his Addition to the second Amendment of Constitution which reads Page 80 →thus—No applicant’s letter can be acted upon until the meeting following that of the reading of his letter. It was put to the house and unanimously carried. As was previously agreed on the polls were now opened for the election of Semi-Annual Orator, and which resulted in the choice of Mr. B. E. K. Hampton who upon being informed of his election—arose and announced that he would be utterly unable to serve the Society in that capacity, and would therefore decline. Mr. S. W. Beaird then moved that at the next meeting we go into another election, which was seconded, and carried.

All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

The lapse of two weeks, again brought together the members of this Society for a regular meeting. The President being absent, the Vice President filled his seat and Mr. W. H. Gaillard filled that of the Vice, the meeting was then called to order, the first roll called, and the minutes of the last regular meeting read and approved.

The regular debates now commenced on an interesting question, which was warmly supported on each side until the adjourning hour checked its further continuance. The President then arose, and announced his decision in favor of the affirmative portion of the question. The Committee now handed in their questions, from among which, the following was chosen—“Whether success in difficult Sciences are the results of Genius, or Industry and Perseverance.” Mr. Robert Sanders was appointed on the first, and Mr. W. O. Weston on the last portion of the question. Mr. S. W. Beaird gave due notice that at the next meeting he would offer the striking out of several articles of the Constitution rendered unimportant by succeeding ones.

All matters of importance being now attended to, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

A regular Semi-Monthly meeting of this Society was held on the evening of the above date. The President being absent the Vice President filled his seat, Mr. Hyams filled that of the Vice, the meeting was then called to order, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last regular meeting read and approved. Mr. S. W. Beaird now arose, and moved that, on account of the lateness of the hour, the regular debates be postponed to the next debating meeting, Page 81 →the motion was seconded, and carried. The general election of officers for the 13th term then took place—and which resulted in the choice of the following gentlemen (See officers list) The election of Semi-Annual Orator also took place, which resulted in favor of Mr. I. A. Hyams who, upon being informed of his election, arose, and announced that he would be unable to serve the Society in that capacity, and therefore declined. It was then moved that the Society go into another election, the motion was carried, the Box was then reopened, the votes deposited and counted, and Mr. A. C. Forrester declared elected. According to previous notice, Mr. S. W. Beaird offered the following resolution which was adopted. Resolved—That as certain portions of the Amendments of the Constitution of this Society have become superfluous and useless, that they be blanked out of the regular order of rules, To wit, the 1st and 6th of the Constitution, The 1st and 3rd of the Bye Laws, and the 1st Resolution. All business of import being now concluded, the reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

An “extra meeting” of this Society was held on the evening of the above date. The President having called it to order, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last regular meeting were read and approved. The Reader then proceeded to read the Constitution for the benefit of the Society, this being done, the regular installation commenced with a few appropriate remarks from the retiring President, who, after expressing his thanks to his fellow members for aiding and sustaining him in his course during his official term; and congratulating his Society on its bright prospects of future eminence: proceeded to install the Vice President (The President being absent) who after accepting the office, then installed the subordinate officers, all of whom manifested such cheerfulness in accepting their respective positions, and expressing such a willingness to serve the Society, as to leave one to infer that they intend to give a practical exemplification of the excellent maxim that “When duty is known duty will be performed,” and thus ended the Installation. Mr. S. W. Beaird now arose and offered the following resolution, Resolved—That the thanks of this Society be tendered to its late President Mr. B. E. K. Hampton for the faithful and impartial manner in which he discharged his duties during his official term. it was seconded, and unanimously adopted. The President according to Constitution, appointed a Committee of three, composed of the following gentlemen—R. L. Deas, W. O. Weston, and S. J. Maxwell, to examine the Books of the Secretary and Treasurer, and report thereon at the next meeting. Page 82 →All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll called, and the Society on motion adjourned. H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

On the evening of the above date, this Society held its regular Semi-Monthly meeting, it was called to order by the Vice President, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last ‘extra’ meeting were read and approved.

The regular debates now commenced, and was carried on with increasing warmth, until when at its height the adjourning hour arrived, and there being many who had not yet spoken on the question, it was moved that it be postponed until the next meeting for further discussion—the President being favorable to the motion, announced the continuation of the debates to the next meeting. Mr. S. W. Beaird a member of the Committee on General Interests—informed the Society that purchase had been made of a work called “The Book of the World”¹¹ in two volumes, which was received as information. The President elect being now present was duly installed by the Vice President and after accepting the office offered a few appropriate remarks, in which he expressed his gratification at being made the Head of a Society whose object and aim were among the noblest that could engage the mind of man, and therefore would endeavor to act in accordance with his position. All business of import being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned. H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

With undeviating punctuality this Society held its regular meeting on the evening of the above date. The President and Vice President being absent, Mr. W. H. Gaillard was chosen President “Pro tem,” and Mr. Forrester Vice President. The meeting was then called to order, the first roll called, and the minutes of the last meeting read and approved. Mr. S. W. Beaird now arose, and moved that as the meeting had organized at so late an hour and the debates to be finished being of an interesting nature—they be further postponed ’till the next Monday night, the motion was seconded, and carried. The Committee appointed to examine the Books of the Secretary & Treasurer, made a favorable report thereon, which was received by the Society. Mr. R. L. Deas Chairman of the committee appointed some time since to return the thanks of the Society by letter to Mr. A. L. Horry for his valuable presents—submitted a copy of the same, which was received. Mr. S. W. Beaird a member of the Committee on General Interests laid before the Society several valuable works purchased Page 83 →for the Library, which was received, and the thanks of the Society tendered to the Committee for their excellent choice. Mr. A. C. Forrester now arose and gave notice that under present circumstances he would be unable to serve the Society as Semi-Annual Orator, and therefore declined his declination was accepted. Mr. R. L. Deas then moved that at the next meeting another election be had for Semi-Annual Orator, which was seconded and carried. Upon motion of Mr. S. W. Beaird the Utopian Society was unanimously invited to attend our approaching Anniversary. Mr. E. G. Beaird Chairman of the Committee on General Interests reported to the President the appointment of his committee which was received. All business of importance being now finished the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned. H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

An “extra meeting” of this Society was held on the evening of the above date. The President being absent, the Vice President filled his seat, and Mr. E. G. Beaird, that of the Vice. The meeting was then called to order, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last meeting read and approved. The President now arose, and stated that the meeting was called for the purpose of finishing the postponed debates, and therefore the floor remained opened for the members at large. The chance was embraced, and in a short time the heat of the former debates were rekindled and fresh fuel being ^now^ added thereto, created a flame, which would have continued to spread, were it not that that powerful Engine—Time arrived and quenched its its [sic] glowing ardor after which, the President gave his decision in favor of the first portion of the question. Among the questions handed in by the “Committee” the following was chosen “Which is the most conducive to Man’s Happiness Mechanical or Agricultural employments.” Mr. S. W. Beaird was appointed on the first, and Mr. E. G. Beaird on the last portion of the question.

All business of importance being now finished, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

1. 1. Satiated was likely intended.
2. 2. This is likely a revisiting of the query about the exile to St. Helena that the Clionians debated in March 1849, with “the allied nations of Europe” referring to those arrayed against Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. These forces encompassed the Duke of Wellington’s allied army (British, Dutch, Belgian, and German) and the Prussian army commanded by Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher.
3. 3. Page 84 →Multiple editions of the works of the Irish poet Thomas Moore (1779–1852) had been published by 1851. Frances Pinckney Bonneau, a teacher of Black children in the 1850s, was the daughter of the prominent schoolmaster Thomas S. Bonneau, who died in 1831. Frances would marry Richard S. Holloway, who joined the Clionian Debating Society in April 1853. See Amrita Chakrabarti Myers,Forging Freedom: Black Women and the Pursuit of Liberty in Antebellum Charleston (Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 2011), 101–2.
4. 4. A variety of republican uprisings swept Europe in 1848, although revolutionary governments were short-lived, and social and economic issues remained unresolved.
5. 5. Proximo, abbreviated prox.: “occurring in the following month.” That is, the oration was scheduled for April 7. It would be delayed until April 14.
6. 6. Chance was likely intended.
7. 7. The Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of All Nations was held in London’s Crystal Palace from May to October 1851.
8. 8. Local white attorney William Dennison Porter (1810–1883), the son of a grocer and an alumnus of the College of Charleston, delivered an address to his fellow alumni in February 1851, which was published as a pamphlet entitled Self-Cultivation. See Edmund L. Drago,Charleston’s Avery Center: From Education and Civil Rights to Preserving the African American Experience, rev. ed., rev. and ed. W. Marvin Dulaney (Charleston, SC: History Press, 2006), 38.
9. 9. James Warley Miles (1818–1875), a white Episcopal minister, missionary, and educator, was a professor of Greek and history at the College of Charleston between 1851 and 1854. A number of his sermons and addresses were published as pamphlets. See William Henry Longton, “Miles, James Warley,” in American National Biography, ed. John A. Garraty and Mark C. Carnes, vol. 15 (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1999), 443–44.
10. 10. The Mexican army officer and statesman Antonio López de Santa Anna (1794–1876), victor at the Alamo, was a powerful, controversial leader in the Texas Revolution and the Mexican–American War.
11. 11. Richard Swainson Fisher’s two-volume Book of the World was published in New York in 1849, with a second edition in 1850–1851.