This auspicious day, bringing with it much delight and pleasure, was hailed with great joy by the Clionian Society. In the afternoon about 3 O’clock the Society assembled in all its strength in thier meeting ‘Hall.’ And about 4 O’clock being joined by the Utopian Society, marched in procession to the School Hall above; where a large and enlightened audience were waiting in profound silence, to greet them. Being seated; the ceremonies were begun by prayer, from Mr. Job G. Bass, an Honorary member; after the conclusion of which; the President in arising announced to the anxious assemblage Enoch G. Beaird ^a member^ as the Society’s ‘Orator.’ The distinguished member in doing honor to his beloved Society; while attempting to meet thier every expectation; did truly do great honor to himself. Having kept the vast assemblage in strict attention for some time; while portraying in the most beautiful language and ^in^ the most eloquent st manner, the many happy effects resulting from the pursuit of an Energetic and Persevering mind. Interspersing his oration ^remarks^ with the most striking examples of bright and virtuous characters. Nor did he fail in the concluding parts to recommend every virtuous action to the favour of his fellow members. Assuring them that though no reward was offered them, to insure the duration of thier existence; yet through thier labours and toils they have been crowned with abundant success in time past; Which together with a due reverence and respect to the bright principles of Christianity they may ever yet entertain brilliant hopes of the continuance of the duration of thier Society’s existence. Having concluded amid numerous and great applauses both from every member and the whole audience; after the benediction was pronounced the assemblage was invited in the Society’s Hall where they were entertained by the members, for more than an Page 47 →hour, while exhibiting to them, the various articles; books, Library &c. in the possession of the Society. After which this multitude of enlightened ^people^ took up thier line of march for home, having enjoyed a pleasant New Year’s afternoon in the Hall of a Debating Society. After wishing the Society all success in thier Third year’s embarkation. They silently and peaceably departed; leaving thier lovely smiles in the recollection of every member and the well wishing of thier favourable voices, still sounding in the ear. Thus was joyfully and peaceably begun, conducted and ended the celebration of the Second Anniversary of the Cl ever prosperous Clionian Debating Society.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

A regular monthly meeting of this Society was held on the above date. Being called to order by the President; the first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meeting and also of the Anniversary celebration were read and approved. The debating commenced by the regular appointed and continued to receive very great support to the very moment of adjournment. The President arising decided in favour of the “Affirmative.” The following question was chosen by votes from those handed in by the Committee. “Which tends most to a nation’s benefit, its agricultural or commercial advantages?” Upon which Mr. W. Gaillard was read out for the first portion and Mr. I. Hyames for the latter. Mr. W. O. Weston presented to the Society for Mrs. Emma K. Farbeaux, 2 Volumes of Rollin[’]s Ancient history, being in cost 3 Dollars out of Five given by her for the purpose of binding some volumes which only costed Two Dollars.¹ He also after a few remarks moved that the thanks of the Society be extended by letter, which upon being seconded by Mr. S. W. Beaird that a Committee of Six be appointed to perform the honourable duty, was put and unanimously carried. Whereupon the following members were appointed Viz. W. O. Weston Chairman Messers. S. W. Beaird; R. L. Deas; B. E. Hampton; E. G. Beaird; and G. F. Barrow Committee. The Chairman of the Committee appointed to write a letter of request to Mr. Wm. E. Marshall a member now read the answer to said letter, and he Mr. Marshall having appeared and met all demands, upon motion of S. W. Beaird and being seconded, the letter was put and unanimously received. A motion was made by Mr. W. H. Gaillard, that the Society go into an immediate election for the next Annual Orator, but it being rather late, he withdrew his motion. The monthly Book list was called and almost altogether cleared. No more of business appearing; the Reporter made his report; the last Roll was called and the Society by motion adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Secretary

This regular monthly meeting of the above Society being held on the above date at the usual hour, was called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The regular debating commenced and was continued to the hour of adjournment though not altogether exhausted, was decided in favour of the first portion of the question. The following question was chosen from those handed in Viz. “Who was the most patriotic Demosthenes or Socrates?[”]² Upon which Mr. Augustus L. Horry was read out for the first portion and Mr. B. E. K. Hampton, for the latter. The polls were now opened for the election of an Annual Orator; when upon report of managers, Mr. Wm. H. Gaillard was declared elected, for January 1st 1851. The Chairman of the committee on the letter of thanks to Mr. Jacob Farbeaux; as also the chairman of another to Mrs. Emma K. Farbeaux, read each respectively the contents of thier letters which were all unanimously received by the body. Due notice was given that at the next regular meeting the present term of Officers shall have expired and that a general election will then take place. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The Last Roll was called an. The Reporter made his report and the Society by motion adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

This regular monthly meeting being called to order by its President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The regular debating having commenced was continued to the adjourning hour, when upon the President’s decision the supporters of the latter portion of the Question came off Victors. The following question was chosen from among those that were handed in by the Committee reading thus “Whether a man condemned to die, though unjustly, can, without a crime escape from justice & the laws?” Upon which Mr. Stephen J. Maxwell was read out upon the affirmative and Mr. W. E. Marshall on the negative. Mr. Wm. H Gaillard, Chairman of the Committee of Thanks to Honorary member Job G. Bass, for his gift of many valuable volumes; now read the contents of the letter bearing the signatures of the Committee, which being put was unanimously received as the property of the Society.

As soon as this meeting was called to order by the President, and the first Roll was called; upon the vacancy of the Vice’s ^seat^ Mr. Weston was requested to act. The Secretary gave notice to the body that he was not compelled to read the Page 49 →proceedings of the last meeting at a Protracted meeting and also as he understood that a portion it was to be protested at this meeting he did not deem it requisite to write them and therefore for such reasons omitted so doing. After which Mr. Wm. O. Weston arose and presented the anticipated “Protest” signed by many others, all of whom took part in supporting its claims for a length ^of time^ and which was opposed by others.³ The Protest having created a very different feeling from what was expected and tending towards evil consequences; was upon motion by S. W. Beaird laid aside. And the following resolution carried in its stead. “‘Resolved’ That as the Protest has become by the expressed opinions of many members the creator of very different feelings from what it was intended to produce, and before it should be attended with evil consequences Be it carried that it be not considered at all. And that as that portion of the proceedings of the last meeting as far as the election, was constitutional, that portion still remain legal. And as the after portion is acknowledged by all to be unconstitutional, that portion be reconsidered and re-acted upon at this meeting.” Which being put after being seconded was carried; and the Society immediately went into an election for Officers which resulted as follows. (See officers book dated March 1850) Notice was given that at the next meeting called by the President the installation of officers would take place. No more business appearing. The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called and the Society adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Secretary

This intervening meeting was called by the President, for the purpose of the installation of officers elect. Being called to order; the first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meetings, were read and approved. Upon the reading of the list of officers elect; the President Vice & Assistant Librarian declined, which upon a motion for its acceptation being seconded and put, was carried. The polls were then ordered to be opened and upon report of managers, it resulted in the choice of Messrs. Enoch Beaird; W. H. Gaillard & R. L. Deas, to fill said respective vacancies. The result of the above election required the resignation of Mr. E. Beaird as Reporter and as a member of the “committee of queries” he being elected President. When upon motion of S. W. Beaird, being seconded said resignation was accepted. The polls were again opened by order, to fill the vacancies, and upon report of managers Mr. Hampton was declared as elected Reporter and Mr. H. Cardozo Jr. as a member of the Committee of Queries. After the conclusion of the above portion of the business. The regular installation began by the relinquishing of the chair by the then incumbent Page 50 →attended with a few brief, yet well applied remarks to his fellow members as well as to his successor in office. The President elect returned the compliment paid him by his predecessor, in a becoming style, after which he accepted the chief seat in the body upon honour of word. The installation of the remaining portion of officers now successively took place according to station, all of whom allowed not the high compliment paid them by the President to pass unnoticed, but returned them in a manner that would speak well of every “Clionian.” Mr. W. H. Gaillard now took an opportunity to return his thanks to the body for having elected him as thier next representative as an Orator. A petition was brought forward by S. W. Beaird in accordance with Resolution 1st that, that Resolution which required Monthly meetings be, according to its own wording, dropped. And that the Art. 22nd of Constitution which called for Weekly meetings on every Wednesday evening be complied with. Which being seconded by Mr. W. O. Weston was put and carried. Notice was given to the members that on next Wednesday evening 27th inst. the regular Quarterly Oration would be delivered. S. W. Beaird Secretary & Treasurer, requested of the Presdt, that he would appoint, in accordance with the requisitions of the Constitution the Committee of Three to examine and report the state of his books and the Treasury Department. Whereupon Messrs. Hampton, Deas, & Cardozo were appointed. It being in the power of the President to appoint a chairman of the “Committee on general interests,” he accordingly appointed Mr. Henry Cardozo Jr. as that Chairman. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The Reporter made his report the Last Roll was called and the Society by motion adjourned to meet hereafter on every Wednesday evening. Simeon W. Beaird, Secretary

This first of the regular Weekly meetings, being held for the purpose of hearing the regular Quarterly Oration delivered; and being well attended both by members common & Honorary; was called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last intervening meeting were read and approved. The President in arising, announced to the Body the name of Mr. Henry Cardozo jr. as the ‘Orator.’ Anxiously and earnestly did every member listen to the first display made by their fellow Clionian. And well did he meet thier every expectation; in handling his subject as manfully as one more accustomed to the performance of such tasks. The “true happiness of man” received additional weight of importance from the many stresses and illustrations placed upon it by the venturesome Orator. Having concluded his remarks, Mr. W. O. Weston rose and in a few words moved that the Society request a Page 51 →copy of said address, which being seconded by S. W. Beaird, was put and unanimously carried; whereupon the President made the request in behalf of the Society, which was immediately met by the presentation of the Original by the Orator. The polls were now ordered to be opened; and upon report of managers, Mr. Augustus L. Horry was declared elected as next Quarterly Orator. Mr. Cardozo gave due notice to the Society that at next meeting he would offer a Resolution providing for the hereafter election of Orators every Four instead of every Three months as it now is. The seat of the Vice President being vacant, Mr. Wm. E. Marshall was requested to occupy it. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called and the Society adjourned by motion.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

At the regular hour; this meeting was called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read and approved. The regular debating commenced, and continued to receive very great support, till even past the hour for its ceasing; though still unh unexhausted. The President in arising expressed an embarrassment in deciding, and for some time remained doubtful. At length he gave his decision in favour of the “negative.” The Committee having handed in thier questions; the following was chosen, reading thus, “By whom has the most good been effected Martin Luther or George Washington?[”]⁴ Upon which Mr. W. O. Weston was read out for the affirmative ^1st portion^ & Mr. G. F. Barrow for the latter portion of the Question. The Secretary & Treasurer, now read the result of the examination of his Departments by the Committee appointed; which reported thier correctness. Mr. Cardozo read out the names of those gentlemen that he as chairman of the “Committee on general interests” had appointed; to wit Messrs. S. Beaird; W. Weston; R. L. Deas & I. A. Hyames Committee. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called and the Society adjourned by motion.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

The regular weekly meeting of the above Society, was called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read and approved. The discussion having commenced with much warmth was continued to its hour for ceasing, when the President decided favourable to the first portion of the question. The following question was then chosen Page 52 →from those handed in by the Committee, “Which [is] the more conducive to moral purity, a Country or City life?” Upon which Mr. Henry Cardozo jr. was read out in support of the former & Mr. J. M. F. Dereef for the latter portion. Mr. Wm. Weston presented to the Society Three pamphlets of good speeches & valuable letters; which upon motion of S. W. Beaird & seconded, the thanks of the Society were returned to Mr. Weston for his acceptable gifts. Mr. W. H. Gaillard moved that the Society, purchase the Five political speeches recently delivered in the Senate and now published,⁵ which was put, after being seconded, & ^was^ carried. No more business appearing to demand the attention of the Body. The Reporter made his report ^the Last Roll was called^ and the Society adjourned by motion.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

At the usual hour on the above date, the regular Weekly meeting of the above Society was called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read and approved. The debates commenced in order, and was continued to its ceasing hour. When upon the upon the [sic] President’s decision, the arguments in support of the first portion of the question were declared the most weighty. The following question was then chosen, reading thus “Who deserves the greater meed of praise, the Inventor or Improver of a project?” Upon which Mr. R. L. Deas was read out for the first portion of the question & Mr. W. H. Gaillard, for the latter. Mr. Deas presented to the Society a copy of an address of Professor F. W. Capers before the Citadel Cadets;⁶ for which, upon motion of S. Beaird & being seconded by W. Weston the thanks of the Body was unanimously returned to the gentleman. Mr. S. Beaird now notified the Society that on next meeting there was a certainty of there not being a quorum of the members in the city;⁷ and thereby moved that in consequence the Society postpone its meeting to the ‘Week’ after; which being seconded by Mr. Cardozo was put & unanimously carried. No more of business appearing. The Reporter made his report, The last Roll was called & the Society by motion adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

A regular meeting being held, it was called to order by the President at the usual hour. The first Roll was called, and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read & approved. The discussion commenced in order by the regular appointants Page 53 →and was continued with much warmth for a length of time by a portion of the members present; after which Mr. Cardozo arose and expressed his acknowledgement of the weight and importance of the subject and his utmost desire to participate, but through fatigue & indisposition was utterly prevented and thereupon moved the continuance of the discussion at next meeting. Mr. Weston in arising expressed himself as being placed in the same condition of the former gentleman and therefore seconded the motion; which being put was unanimously carried. Mr. Gaillard presented the Society with a copy of Professor B[r]umby’s address on geology;⁸ which upon motion of Mr. Weston and the same being seconded, it was carried that the thanks of the Body be returned to the gentleman. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called & the Society by motion adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

Sickness having laid its afflicting hand on many of the members of this brotherly Institution. It was, for the last “Two” weeks kept from assembling as usual. But at this date there being an extra fine attendance; the President called it to order. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read and approved. The unfinished arguments in support of the continued weighty question from last meeting were now begun and continued with great & even more than expected warmth to the ceasing hour; when upon the President’s decision, the supporters of the “Inventor’s” claims came off triumphant. The following question was chosen from those handed in by the Committee “Was Caesar right, in usurping the government of the Roman Empire?[”]⁹ Mr. I. A. Hyames was read out on the affirmative and Mr. A. L. Horry on the negative. Mr. R. L. Deas presented to the Society a copy of Mr. N. Mitchell’s address before the 4th of July Association.¹⁰ When upon motion of Mr. Weston and seconded by S. W. Beaird the & being carried; the thanks of the Body was returned to the presenter. The President gave notice that he had received a communication from Honorary member Job G. Bass accompanied with the requested address, which he delivered before the Society on its first Anniversary celebration in January 1849.¹¹ When upon motion of Simeon W. Beaird and being seconded and carried; the consideration of the same was laid over for the next meeting. No more of business appearing to demand the attention of the Assembly. The Reporter pro-tem made his report; the last Roll was called and the Society was by motion adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Secretary

The President having called this regular meeting to order. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read and approved. The discussion on the last adopted and weighty question was now begun and continued for a length of time with much animation, until the hour for ceasing had nearly arrived, when Mr. Weston who had already spoken on the subject to some length, expressed his desire for its continuation, as he would not like such a subject so important to be passed over until it was exhausted. The President after having heard the views of other gentlemen, put the said request to the voice of the body, which was unanimously carried. He therefore accordingly gave notice that he had granted its continuation. S. W. Beaird, Chairman of the committee on the letter to the Revd. Dr. Daniel A. Payne of Baltimore, an Honorary Member: gave notice that he had received an answer through the kindness of Mrs. E. K. Farbeaux, directed to him for the Body. Mr. W. H. Gaillard moved that both the letters of Messrs. Bass & Payne be immediately read. Mr. Weston opposed the motion and moved that the reading of the letters be postponed until there was a larger assembly of the members present; as the recent fire of the morning had probably fatigued many and prevented them from attending.¹² After other explanations and the support of other gentlemen of Mr. Weston’s views, Mr. Gaillard with all good humor withdrew his motion, and Mr. S. W. Beaird having seconded Mr. Weston’s motion, it was put & unanimously carried. No more of business appearing to demand the attention of this punctual body The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called and the minutes Society by motion was adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

There being a very good attendance of members, at this meeting. At the usual hour it was called to order by the President. The first Roll was called, and the minutes of the last Weekly meeting were read and approved. The floor was not given to any, for the continuance of the discussion on on the last important subject, which was begun, continued and ended with great warmth and interest. At the conclusion the decision was given in favour of the ‘Affirmative.’ The following question was chosen from among those handed in by the Committee “Whose learned men have contributed most to the advancement of civilization those of the Greeks or Romans?[”] Upon which Mr. B. E. K. Hampton was read out for the Greek and Mr. S. J. Maxwell for the Roman portion of the question. All business demanding attention being now concluded. The last Roll Page 55 →was called and. The Reporter made his report, and the Society was by motion adjourned.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

This persevering body again met at the usual hour on the above date for the transaction of business. Having been called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The discussion on the last adopted question was now begun with considerable warmth and continued to receive support to near the hour of adjournment; when Mr. Cardozo requested the continuation of the subject to the next meeting, being supported by Mr. Weston as a second. The President put the said request to the voice of the house and it being unanimously agreed on, he granted the same. Mr. S. W. Beaird moved that the time for hearing our next quarterly oration be fixed on the meeting after the election and installation of officers in July next, which being seconded, was put and unanimously carried; and the Secretary was ordered to notify the orator of the same. The reason of this delay being, the fourth month resolution of Mr. Cardozo not yet being carried, though under consideration. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The last Roll was called and the Reporter made his report. And the Society was adjourned by motion.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

In obedience to orders received from the President, this body met on this Monday evening in the place of Wednesday evening. Being called to order by the President, the first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The continuation of the last subject was begun and continued to the ceasing hour. When Greece with all becomingness received a decision in favour of her supporters. At this hour the Secretary gave due notice, that the general election and installation of officers would take place at the next meeting; therefore no questions were handed in by the Committee of Queries; as there would be no debating on that evening. The Secretary rose and requested the members at large not to consider him as a candidate for that responsible position any longer, as he had now occupied it for Six terms, including 2 years.¹³ He was willing to behold it occupied by other gentlemen, in order that he might recreate, but not that he found, any task in the least burdensome, that his fellow Clionians might impose on him. The President in accordance with the Constitution appointed the following gentlemen a Committee to examine the Page 56 →Treasury Departments, as also the books, of the Secretary and Treasurer. Viz. Messrs. H. Cardozo; W. O. Weston; & W. H. Gaillard. No more of business appearing to demand attention. The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called and the Society adjourned by motion.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

According to previous notice this meeting was called for the special purpose, of the general election of officers for the Ninth Term. Having been called to order by the President. The first Roll was called and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The Committee appointed to examine the books and Treasury of the Secretary and Treasurer made a favourable report. The polls were now ordered to be opened. And upon report of managers the following gentlemen were declared elected for the next term (See officers book). The adjourning hour having nearly arrived a motion was made by Mr. Wm. Weston and seconded by Mr. S. W. Beaird, that the Installation in order to be conducted properly, do take place on the meeting of next Wednesday 17th inst., instead of the present hour. Which being put was carried. Mr. Barrow gave notice that at the next meeting he would bring before the notice of the body, the utility of having Diplomas to present to members that may in time leave the State, which was received. At no election meeting before had there been so many candidates for the various offices, and yet proud we are to say that none had ever been conducted with more harmony and union than this. Which speaks well of the actions of this flourishing and laudable Institution. The hour for adjourning having arrived, and no more of business presenting itself to demand attention. The Reporter made his report. The last Roll was called and the Society adjourned over to the Installation meeting of the 17th inst.

Simeon W. Beaird, Sec.

The regular weekly meeting of this society was held on the above date, and being called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the minutes of the last meeting was read and approved. The regular installation (which was deferred from the last meeting) now commenced by the President arising and after announcing the name of Mr. Simeon W. Beaird as President elect, he congratulated himself and his fellow members on the Harmony and good order which the society had enjoyed during his official term, and beleiving [sic] that his worthy successor would be capable of promoting the same harmony he willingly resigned to him the elevated position. The President Elect now Page 57 →returned his thanks for the honours conferred on him, and on accepting the office avowed his determination to adhere strictly to the constitution, and thus he became duly installed. The subordinate ^officers^ was then duly installed, most of whom being present, pledged themselves to perform the duties of their respective offices to the best of their abilities. This being concluded, the committee of Queries handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen “Was Themistocles right in committing suicide rather than assist an enemy of his country.”¹⁴ Mr. W. E. Marshall was read out on the affirmative and Mr. W. O. Weston on the negative. All business demanding attending being now concluded, The Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the society on motion adjourned.

Error. Mr. R. L. Deas moved that a letter of thanks be addressed to Mr. S. W. Beaird, for his valuable services as Secretary & Treasurer, which was unanimously adopted.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

As usual this society held its regular meeting on the above date, and being called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the minutes of the last meeting read and approved. The regular debates now commenced and was carried on with considerable ardour even beyond the ceasing hour, at the close of which The President arose and gave his decision in favor of the negative. The questions for the next meeting were then handed in among which the following was chosen “Who accomplished the greatest good for his country Demosthenes or Cicero.”¹⁵ Mr. E. G. Beaird was appointed on the affirmative and Mr. G. F. Barrow on the negative, all business of importance being now concluded, the Reporter made his report the last roll was called and the society on motion adjourned.

Error—Mr. Deas being absent at the regular installation meeting, was duly installed by the President at this meeting.

H. Cardozo Jr., Secretary

This society held its regular weekly meeting on the above date after being called to order by the President, the first roll was called, and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The regular ^debates^ now commenced, and such was the spiritedness with which they were carried on that nought but necessity compelled them to close, after which the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the first portion of the question. The next meeting being Page 58 →agreed on by motion for the hearing of the quarterly Oration no questions were handed in. Mr. Deas gave due notice that at the next meeting he would offer a resolution to change the meetings from weekly to fortnightly. It was moved by Mr. Cardozo that the letters of Messrs. Bass & Payne be read at the next meeting which was agreed on. The President recommended to the society the purchase of certain valuable books for the Library which was agreed to by the members who instructed him (the President) to purchase said books. 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

This exceedingly well attended meeting was held on the above date, and being 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. Maxwell was called on to fill the chair. Mr. S. W. Beaird ^presented^ to the society for Mrs Emma K. Fa[r]beaux, three very valuable books written by distinguished Authoresses. Mr. R. L. Deas moved that a letter of thanks be returned ^for the same^ which after being seconded was put and unanimously carried. Whereupon the following members were appointed, viz. W. O. Weston chairman, Messrs. W. H. Gailliard, G. F. Barrow, A. L. Horry, and R. L. Deas, Committee. Mr. S. W. Beaird also presented to the society the valuable works which he was instructed by them to purchase, upon which he made a few very appropriate remarks, recommending the perusal of them, which was all well received. The desired period now arrived for the hearing of the quarterly Oration the President announced the name of Mr. Augustus L. Horry as the orator who with much self command delightfully entertained the audience for some time on the subject of “Perseverance[”] in the course of which he displayed a depth of intellect worthy of being cultivated. After concluding Mr. W. O. Weston moved that a copy of the address be requested of him, which being seconded was put and unanimously carried. Whereupon the President in a few pertinent remarks made the request, the Orator after having returned his thanks for the manner in which his address was received presented the original. According to previous notice the letters of Messrs. Payne and Bass were read and the Annual Oration of the latter received and deposited in the Library. Mr. Cardozo gave notice that at the next meeting he would bring forward his resolution for len[g]thening the time for the Quarterly Oration. The questions were handed in, from among which the following was chosen Which was calculated to shed the brightest lustre and influence on Grecian manners and character, “The laws of Solon or Page 59 →Lycurgus.”¹⁶ Mr. H. Cardozo was appointed on the first and Mr. J. M. Dereef on the latter portion of the question. No more of business appearing to demand attention, the Reporter made his report the last roll was called, and this meeting which was graced with the presence of many Honoraries adjourned by motion. H. Cardozo Jr., Secty.

The prevailing epidemic having seized a majority of our members for its victims, they were consequently prevented from meeting for the last two weeks.¹⁷ But on the above date there being a good attendance the President called the ^meeting^ to order, 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. Maxwell was called on to fill the chair. The regular debates now commenced and was carried on with increasing ardor to the last moment possible. after its close the President gave his conscientious decision in favor of the first portion of the question. The committee then handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen. “Was Cromwell right in usurping the reins of Government in England.”¹⁸ Mr. Deas handed in his resolution “for changing our meeting from weekly to semi-monthly” which was postponed for the next meeting’s consideration, the President gave notice that at the next meeting the election of Quarterly Orator would take place, 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.

‘Error’ Mr. Deas was appointed on the affirmative, and Mr. Gailliard on the negative portion of the question.

This punctual body assembled at the usual hour on the above date, the President called it to order, the first roll was called, and the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The regular debates then commenced and continued to receive a warm support till the limited time had passed, after its close the President arose and gave his decision in favor of the negative. Mr. H. Cardozo Jr. after due notice brought forward his resolution to lengthen the time for the delivery of the private Orations before the Society, it was seconded, put to the house, and unanimously carried. the polls were now opened for the election of regular Orator, the managers counted the votes and declared Mr. S. J. Maxwell orator elect. the committee of queries han[d]ed in their questions from among which the following was chosen “Are afflictions in any manner beneficial to Page 60 →humanity.” Mr. Hyams was appointed on the affirmative and Mr. Horry on the negative portion of the question. Mr. Maxwell filled the seat of the Vice-President he being absent from the city. 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.

The regular weekly meeting of this Society was held on the above date, it was called to order by the President, the first roll called, and the minutes of the [last meeting] was read and approved. Mr. Hampton who was absent from the city at the last Installation meeting, now appeared and was duly installed by the President. Mr. W. O. Weston Chairman of the committee appointed to return the thanks of the Society to Mr. S. W. Beaird for his valuable services as Secretary and Treasurer, now fulfil[l]ed his appointment (which was delayed for sometime on account of sickness) by the introduction of the following “Preamble and Resolutions.”

“Preamble”

The prevailing sentiment of the present age unfortunately has been to blind or in a manner to place upon the same platform the services of those who are truly meritorious, with those who are merely of an ordinary character. Among those who stand prominent in performing duties of an unexceptionable character, and of a rightly deserving description, and whose qualifications are of the rarest character, there stands prominent the name of S. W. Beaird, endeared as he is to us all by the relations that has existed between us as members, but more particularly as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Clionian D Society. his actions need no commentary, they are indellibly [sic] written upon the minds of each and every one, they are as familiar as the records of the Society, he being associated with it in such a great degree, yea from its origin throughout its different phases, to its now flourishing condition, and we have always beheld for ourselves this good deportment his business activity and his timely counsel in the most requisite hour. Deeming then his services while in that capacity as truly beneficial in its tendency to enhance the prosperity of the institution, and that his ever untiring industry in every post of duty whether laborious or tedious has tended in a great degree to place upon a firm foundation the financial and the literary condition and the respectability of the Society’s reputation, and above all nerving the cheerfulness with which he performed these onorous [sic] duties for the space of eight long terms,¹⁹ it is meet²⁰ that we should show forth some token of our appreciation of his valuable services. Therefore be it resolved unanimously.

Page 61 →1st That we fully regard the long-extended services of our late Secretary and Treasurer, and tender to him our sincere thanks for the ability and the zeal which he always evinced in the discharge of his onorous duties.

2nd That we tender to him our best wishes for the fulfilment properly of the new sphere of duties which the Society has tendered him.

3rd That the following Preamble and Resolutions be entered upon the Journals of the Society.

Signed, W. O. Weston / R. L. Deas / W. H. Gailliard

The above Preamble and Resolutions were unanimously adopted by the Society. Whereupon Mr. S. W. Beaird arose and expressed his thanks to his fellow members for the high esteem which they has placed on his services. Mr. W. O. Weston Chairman also of the committee appointed to communicate the thanks of the Society to Mrs. Farbeaux for her late valuable gifts, fulfilled his duty, by reading a copy of the letter, which was unanimously ^received^ by the Society. The regular debates now commenced and was warmly supported on both sides until the ceasing hour checked its continuance, after which the President arose and gave his decision favorable to the Affirmative. The committee of Queries handed their question[s] from among which the following was chosen, “Who has the greatest chance to show forth his patriotism in time of war the statesman in the hall of power, or the soldier on the field of battle.” Mr. Hampton was appointed on the first and Mr. Maxwell on the last portion of the question. Mr. Deas presented his resolution for changing our meetings from weekly to semi-monthly, which was put to the house and lost. 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.

The punctuality of our members was again manifested by attending the regular weekly ^meeting^ of the Society on the above date. Which was called to order by the President, the first roll called, and the proceedings of the last meeting were read and approved. The Vice President being absent on account of sickness, Mr. Barrow filled the chair. The regular debates commenced and was carried on with increasing animation till the adjourning hour checked its further continuance though unexhausted, after which the President gave his decision in favor of the latter portion of the question. The Committee of Queries handed in their questions from among which the following was chosen—“Was Caesar right in crossing the Rubicon or not.”²¹ Mr. W. E. Marshall was read out on the affirmative and Mr. W. O. Weston on the negative of the question. Mr. Cardozo gave Page 62 →due notice that at the next meeting he would move to carry into effect the first resolution. 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.

An “extra meeting” of the Society was held on the above date, it was called to order by the President, the first roll called, and the minutes of the last meeting read and approved. The Vice President being absent Mr. Hyams filled the chair. The regular ^debates^ now commenced and was so spiritedly discussed that the adjourning hour was almost forgotten, it however closed from necessity after which the President impartially decided in favor of the negative portion of the question. The Committee of Queries han[d]ed in their questions from among which the following was chosen—‘Was the conduct of the Roman General Regulus commendable or condemnable.”²² Mr. E. G. Beaird was appointed on the first and Mr. G. F. Barrow on the latter portion of the question. Mr. Cardozo moved that according to Resolution 1st our meetings do change from weekly to monthly, and that we meet on Monday Evenings instead of Wednesday Evening, as long as said Resolution continues in force which was seconded, put to the house, and unanimously carried. The President gave due notice that at the next meeting the present term would expire, and the election of new officers would take place, he also notified the officers that according to Constitution he would require of them a report of the completion of their duties. No more business appearing to demand attention, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called, and the Society on motion adjourned.

H. Cardozo Junior, Sec.

The regular monthly [meeting] of this society being held at the usual hour, on 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 regular debates then commenced, and was carried on warmly till the ceasing hour checked its continuance. After which, the President decided in favor of the first portion of the question. The polls were now ordered to be opened, and the Society went immediately into an election for officers. Which upon report of Managers the following gentlemen were declared elected. (See officers list) No questions were handed in as the next meeting would be occupied for the installation of officers. The Monthly and Semi-annual contributions list were called out and partly paid. According to previous notice the President called Page 63 →on all the officers for a report of the completion of their duties to which they respectively answered in the affirmative. All business of importance being now concluded, the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called and the Society on motion adjourned.

The President appointed the following committee to examine the books of the Sec. & Treas., W. O. Weston, B. E. Hampton, R. L. Deas.

H. Cardozo Jr., Sec.

This Society held its regular Monthly Meeting on the above date. After being called to order, the first roll was called, and the proceedings of the last meeting were read and approved. Mr. S. W. Beaird presented to the Society the three following Books which he was instructed by them to purchase, viz. Hawks Egypt. Noble deeds of Women. and Franklin’s Life.²³

The President now proceeded to install the new President which he prefaced with a few very appropriate remarks, and which was suitably answered by the President elect in a few remarks in which he signify^ed^ his acceptance of the office. The installation of all the subordinate officers were then successively conducted by the President, all of whom were apparently willing to perform any duty for the advancement of their beloved Society. The President then appointed Mr. S. W. Beaird as Chairman of the Committee on General interests and after a short time the Chairman announced to the President the following gentlemen who would compose his committee (See officers list.) Mr. S. W. Beaird moved that we invite the Utopian Society to attend our approaching third Anniversary which was seconded, and unanimously carried. The contribution list were called and considerably cleared. The committee of Queries then handed in their questions, from among which, the following was chosen, “Is education beneficial to society.” Mr. H. Cardozo was appointed on the affirmative and Mr. J. M. Dereef on the negative. All business of importance being now concluded the Reporter made his report, the last roll was called and this well attended meeting adjourned by motion.

H. Cardozo, Sec.

1. 1. Several multivolume English translations of the French historian Charles Rollin’s eighteenth-century text, The Ancient History of the Egyptians, Carthaginians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Medes and Persians, Macedonians, and Grecians, were available in 1850.
2. 2. This query compares the Greek statesman and orator Demosthenes (384–322 BCE) with the earlier Greek philosopher Socrates (ca. 470–399 BCE).
3. 3. Page 64 →The reasons for this protest are unknown.
4. 4. This query compares the German theologian Martin Luther (1483–1546), who sparked the Protestant Reformation, with President George Washington. Many US Protestants considered the founding of the United States to be a culmination of the Reformation; see Marjule Anne Drury, “Anti-Catholicism in Germany, Britain, and the United States,” Church History 70, no. 1 (March 2001): 105–6.
5. 5. Many US Senate speeches from early 1850 were published as pamphlets; topics included compromise resolutions, California’s admission to statehood, the Fugitive Slave Act, the question of enslavement generally, and the potential for national dissolution.
6. 6. Francis Withers Capers (1819–1892), professor at the Citadel until late 1847, addressed the cadets’ Calliopean Society in 1846. The address was then published as a pamphlet entitled State Military Academies.
7. 7. John C. Calhoun (1782–1850), the proslavery statesman serving as US senator from South Carolina, died in Washington on March 31. His remains were transported to Charleston, arriving on April 25. Plans for elaborate public demonstrations, processions, and funeral ceremonies in the city were well under way by mid-April, making it feasible for Beaird to predict that many Clionians would choose to be away. See “Telegraphic Intelligence: Reported for the Charleston Courier,” Charleston Courier, April 17, 1850, 2; “Arrangements for the Funeral of Mr. Calhoun,” Charleston Courier, April 22, 1850, 2; and “South-Carolina Mourns for Her Dead,” Charleston Courier, April 27, 1850, 2.
8. 8. Professor Richard Trapier Brumby (1804–1875) of South Carolina College delivered an address to the state legislature in 1849; it appeared as a pamphlet, An Address on the Sphere, Interest and Importance of Geology.
9. 9. The query refers to Gaius Julius Caesar (ca. 100–44 BCE), Roman general, statesman, and dictator.
10. 10. Local attorney Nelson Mitchell delivered a Fourth of July oration in 1848 that was published as a pamphlet in 1849, entitled Oration Delivered before the Fourth of July Association, on the Fourth of July, 1848.
11. 11. Bass was likely writing from Toronto, Canada West (present-day Ontario). In 1889 he reported that he left Charleston in 1849. His first wife, Ellen Bass, died in Toronto in 1851. Serving as a chaplain in the 90th New York Infantry during the Civil War, Bass later worked as a Methodist minister and penitentiary chaplain in Brooklyn, New York, until his death in 1901. Job G. Bass, Pension Application File, and Job G. Bass, deposition, January 12, 1889, in Conrad D. Ludeke, Pension Application File, both in Records of the Veterans Administration, 1773–1985, Record Group 15, National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, DC.
12. 12. A downtown fire began in the early hours of May 29 and destroyed several businesses and telegraph posts. Local newspapers blamed the fire on an arsonist and credited the decisive action of firefighters for saving the Charleston Hotel. See “Another Destructive Fire,” Charleston Mercury, May 29, 1850, 2; “Destructive Conflagration,” Charleston Courier, May 30, 1850, 2; “The Fire of Yesterday,” Charleston Mercury, May 30, 1850, 2; and “The Telegraph,” Charleston Mercury, May 30, 1850, 2.
13. 13. By this time Simeon W. Beaird had served as the society’s inaugural president for two terms and then as secretary and treasurer for six terms.
14. 14. Page 65 →In this query, the Clionians follow the tradition presuming that the death of Themistocles (ca. 524—ca. 460 BCE), Athenian naval strategist and politician, was an honorable self-sacrifice. See John Marr, “The Death of Themistocles,” Greece and Rome 42, no. 2 (October 1995): 159–67.
15. 15. This query compares two famous orators and politicians: Demosthenes in fourth-century BCE Greece and Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 BCE) in Rome.
16. 16. The query compares Solon (ca. 630–ca. 560 BCE), an Athenian statesman and lawmaker, with Lycurgus, traditionally a Spartan lawgiver of the seventh century BCE.
17. 17. An epidemic of a malady known as break-bone fever afflicted many people in Charleston in the hot summer of 1850, albeit with few fatalities. Symptoms included headaches, pain in muscles and joints, exhaustion, chills, fever, and nausea, followed by skin rashes and insomnia. See William T. Wragg, “History of the Break-bone Fever: An Epidemic which Prevailed in Charleston, in the Summer of 1850,” Charleston Medical Journal and Review 6, no. 2 (March 1851): 153–82; and Christopher Happoldt, “Observations on the Epidemic Break-bone Fever of 1850, in Charleston,” Charleston Medical Journal and Review 6, no. 5 (September 1851): 605–27.
18. 18. Oliver Cromwell (1599–1658) led parliamentary forces in the English Civil Wars against King Charles I, helping to overthrow the Stuart monarchy. During the republican Commonwealth, Cromwell was lord protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland.
19. 19. On July 1, 1850, Beaird recorded in the minutes that he had served as secretary-treasurer “for Six terms, including 2 years.” Here Weston, Deas, and Gailliard have added the two terms Beaird served as president prior to assuming the secretarial role.
20. 20. The adjective meet in this now-archaic usage means “proper” or “appropriate for the situation or context.” The Clionians would have been familiar with the usage from the King James Bible, where it frequently appears. For example, the second Pauline epistle to the Thessalonians salutes its readers: “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth” (2 Thessalonians 1:3, KJV).
21. 21. In 49 BCE, Julius Caesar’s forces crossed a small stream, the Rubicon, invading Cisalpine Gaul. The movement constituted a violation of law that precipitated a civil war in Rome, and “crossing the Rubicon” became a phrase indicating a purposive action from which there is no turning back.
22. 22. Marcus Atilius Regulus (fl. third century BCE) was a Roman general and consul who fought against the Carthaginians. Legends of his capture, his being sent to Rome to discuss peace, his arguments against peace, and his return to Carthage to die a martyr’s death have been celebrated and questioned.
23. 23. Francis L. Hawks’s The Monuments of Egypt; or, Egypt a Witness for the Bible appeared in 1850. Elizabeth Starling’s Noble Deeds of Woman, first published in London in 1835, was often reprinted during the nineteenth century. When the Clionians bought their copy of the famous autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790), the standard English edition was an 1818 version produced by Franklin’s grandson William Temple Franklin.