There were songs, also exercises in vocal gymnastics.
Pupils of the lower classes displayed their expertness at mental arithmetic.

Then, after more singing, the superintendent of schools, who had just arrived, mounted the platform and presented each graduating one with a diploma, showing that the recipients had faithfully and successfully completed their Grammar School course.
More music, after which Laura Bentley, a pretty little vision in white cloud effects, with yards of pink ribbon for the sunshine, stepped to the platform, made her bow and launched into the valedictory.
"And now," called Old Dut from the audience, "the old eighth grade is no more.

The exercises are over.

I thank all who have contributed to make this occasion so pleasant." "Three cheers for Old---Mr.Jones, the principal!" yelled Dan Dalzell, as the scrambling to get out began.

Needless to say, the cheers were given.