(seq. 3)

Valedictory Oration

What remains, most distinguished listeners, as the sun now hurries to its setting, the academic exercises having been successfully completed, and the candidates of both degrees having been crowned with laurel; what remains? Except that we should give the most abundant thanks to God, the best and greatest, for these festive days, which, by His divine grace, have still been granted to us.

To render thanks worthy of Him is beyond our power. Yet, the mind is eager at least to outline the thanks we cannot fully convey. To the Father of Lights, from whom every good and perfect gift descends, be blessing, and honor, and glory forever and ever. Furthermore, it remains, most kind listeners, that we deeply present to you a token of our grateful hearts, for having been pleased to attend these ceremonies and to dignify our seats with your presence; and that we bid you farewell in the best of health.

Here, however, as custom and duty demand, a most humble speech is first and foremost offered to the illustrious man, Mr. Jonathan Belcher, our supreme governor. In your presence, most celebrated Governor, the Academy boasts, and we all rise before you, as the highest authority is vested in you. It was a great honor and glory for Emperor Charlemagne to be seen cherishing and holding dear the school he had established. Now, however, common consensus marks the same glory for those who earn distinction in the same path of virtue. Therefore, gather your honors, most excellent man,