My Dear Students and Friends,—Accept my thanks for your card of invitation, your badge, and order of exercise, all of which are complete.
When I gave you a meagre reception in Boston at the close of the first convention of the National Christian Scientist Association, it was simply to give you the privilege, poor as it was, of speaking a few words aside to your teacher. I remember my regret when, having asked in general assembly if you had any questions to propose, I received no reply. Since then you have doubtless realized that such opportunity might have been improved; but that time has passed.
I greatly rejoice over the growth of my students within the last few years. It was kind of you to part so gently with the protecting wings of the mother-bird, and to spread your own so bravely. Now, dear ones, if you take my advice again, you will do—what? Even this: disorganize the National Christian Scientist Association! and each one return to his place of labor, to work out individually and alone, for himself and for others, the sublime ends of human life.
