Bismarck Weekly Tribune

A Flow of Eloquence.

Boston, Dec. 12.—Over 1,000 solid business men of Boston and New England crowded the spacious apartments of the Hotel Vendome this evening on the occasion of the annual banquet of the Boston Merchants' association. At a round table in the center sat Hon. J. A. Lane, president of the association. At his right were ex-President Cleveland and Messrs. H. W. Grady, W. L. Putnam, H. A. Collins, John Lowell, Wm. E. Russell and Leopold. At his left were seated Gov. Oliver Ames, Andrew Carnegie, Clinton B. Fisk of New Jersey and Collector Saltonstall, all guests of the association. It was 8:15 o'clock before President Lane called the meeting to order. After reading a letter of regret from James Russell he proceeded in a brief speech to introduce Governor Ames, who welcomed the guests. When he mentioned the welcome guests from New York, Gov. Ames turned to Cleveland and said: "If wicked democrats speak as well of me when I retire from office as the republicans now do, I shall be abundantly satisfied." This sentiment was loudly cheered. Lane then introduced Cleveland as one who, strong in his personality, would speak strong words to-night which would be heard all over the land and across the sea in behalf of honest politics and those reforms which are now sweeping all parties before them. Carnegie was greeted with long continued applause of shouts and cheers, the assemblage rising and waving handkerchiefs. Cleveland's address aroused great enthusiasm and his points were frequently greeted with cries of "Good" and applause. Following Cleveland, Henry Grady, of Georgia who was warmly received and who spoke at length. Much applause and considerable laughter and tears was evoked by Grady's address. Andrew Carnegie was then introduced. Prior to entering upon his discussion he referred to Cleveland as one whom history would declare had tried to do his duty and possessed the respect of the country regardless of party. He said Cleveland had demonstrated one answer to a question of his own asking what to do with ex-presidents—he had shown that one good thing to do with them was to invite them to all banquets. When Mr. Carnegie said: "Why not run them again?" There was a storm of applause with cries of "Good! That's so!" and renewed cheering. Carnegie then proceeded to a brief exposition of the wonderful progress made by this country during the past thirty years in commerce, manufacturing and mining, declaring that in the last two industries she now leads the world, while her credit is first among nations. His address which was brief, owing to the lateness of the evening was confined almost wholly to statistics. He took occasion to say that he did not share the fears of the republicans of any serious danger. He believed nothing could prevent her from achieving her destiny. Carnegie was followed by Hon. W. L. Putnam, late democratic candidate for governor of Maine, who spoke briefly.