State Ledger, April 25, 1884

State Ledger, April 25, 1884

THE BRUCE BANQUET.

A High Compliment to a Distinguished Colored Man.

A right royal banquet was spread Thursday night, and tendered complimentary to Ex-Senator and now Register B. K. Bruce. The guests who graced this occasion were personal and political friends of the Register, who were especially invited to participate in the affair, and who assembled at the Benevolent Hall in this city, at an early hour.

The table was beautifully decorated with an immense profusion of elegant bouquets and flowers, and literally loaded down with strawberries and every variety of fruit and sweet-meats and the substantial viands appropriate to such an occasion. Champagne flowed freely, and J. J. Spelman as presiding master of ceremonies managed the proceedings with unusual order and decorum. The Hope Cornet Band contributed the music, and at 10 o’clock precisely, the guests took their seats at the table.

The first regular toast, “Our Guest,” was given by M. M. McLeod, in a well timed and happy strain, and was appropriately responded to by Senator Bruce. The second toast, “The President of the United States,” was responded to by Hon. James Hill, in a eulogy to the character and administration of that officer. The third toast, “The Press,” was responded to by E. L. Gillian, of the People’s Adviser. To the fourth toast, “The Ladies,” Dr. Bryant happily responded. Then came the fifth regular toast, “Education,” responded to by Rev. C. L. Harris.

Miscellaneous toasts and the pleasures of the table then occupied the main portion of the time until two o’clock, when the meeting adjourned. The whole affair is a matter in which our colored friends have cause to congratulate themselves for its great success.

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