But this year I am moved more than ever to that feeling.

There are those among you who have shown me traits of character that have filled me with even more much more than my usual amount of faith in the future of the American nation.

Young ladies and gentlemen, my fellow citizens, permit me to thank you for your loyal work to make this graduating class what it is, and what it is destined to become.

Go forth to uphold the traditions of Gridley and the glory of America, and may God bless you, one and all." His voice rather husky, and his eyes a little more wet, Old Dut sank back into the well-worn chair from which he had taught so many eighth-grade classes.
"Three cheers for our principal!" proposed Danny Grin.

The cheers were given lustily, with half a dozen tigers.
"Master Dalzell," replied Old Dut, "coming from the boy who, as the records show, has been disciplined more frequently in the last year than any other pupil present, I consider that a tribute indeed." "I meant it," said Dan simply.
Later the pupils of the five upper grades marched solemnly into Exhibition Hall, the appearance of the graduating class being greeted with applause by enthusiastic relatives and friends.
The orchestra played triumphal marches until all had marched in to their seats.
Then the orchestra paused, only to begin a moment later with the first measures of the opening chorus, sung by more than three hundred youthful voices.