The executive board immediately took up business details, chairmen were appointed through Maryland, and correspondence conducted toward forming branch associations in other states. A number of the clubs and societies whose representatives had pledged their support promptly redeemed their promises. Over two thousand circular letters were issued calling attention to the work, and emphasizing the voluntary nature of the contributions.
The cause widely endorsed, success seemed assured, when conditions were reversed by the financial stringency of June, 1907. Accepting the situation, the executive board resolved to wait until returning prosperity justified resumption of active measures, though untiring workers continued to add to the fund.
The celebration of the Centenary being contemplated alike by Johns Hopkins University and the Association, coöperation with the use of McCoy Hall for the exercises was invited by Dr. Ira Remsen in a cordial letter to the president of the Association. This appropriate suggestion accepted, the programmes were merged into one of great dignity and power, commanding close attention from the brilliant assemblage; the evening of January 19, 1909, marking an epoch in the literary history of Baltimore.
For the speakers gracious permission to here record their tributes the executive board extends warm and appreciative thanks, and also acknowledge the vivid interest lent this volume by the accompanying photographs.
With confidence in ultimate success justified by the
