Commencement at the Opera House

The opera house was packed last night with an intelligent audience to witness the third annual commencement exercises of the Walla Walla Hospital. There were three graduates, Miss Minnie Rankin of La Grande, Oregon; Miss Lottie Fowler of Kansas; and Miss Lettie L. Clark of Walla Walla. Miss Rankin, as valedictorian, delivered a thoughtful address on the work of the class and the duties of their chosen profession. The speaker showed a broad grasp of her subject and spoke with ease, force, and clearness. Rev. Holman B. Turner, pastor of the Baptist church, delivered a thoughtful address in which he paid a glowing tribute to the work upon which the young ladies had entered. He emphasized the need of self-sacrifice, energy, and perseverance. His remarks were given close attention by the large audience. The stage was tastefully decorated with flowers and vines, and conspicuously displayed was the class motto, 'Step by Step Onward.' Dr. J. F. Cropp, president of the Walla Walla Hospital, introduced the speakers and announced the several numbers on the program. Rev. Austin Rice pronounced the invocation, Rev. Andreas Bard presented the diplomas in a graceful speech, and Rev. Albert Dale Gantz pronounced the benediction. Prof. Pennell of Whitman College sang a solo, Prof. Edward Fischer gave a violin selection, and the Walla Walla orchestra rendered some of their best music.