A clear statement about those who extend the welcome and of those who are
to be welcomed is appropriate. This may be expanded advantageously by
giving a few of the characteristics of each, greater latitude being allowed
in complimenting those who are welcomed than those who entertain. It is
bad taste to spend more time in telling our guests how good and great we
are than in expressing the exalted opinion we have of them for their noble
work, their great fame, or their high purpose; or in declaring the pleasure
we feel and the honor we have in entertaining them. The warmth of the
welcome extended should be expressed in the fullest manner, and as
this is the central purpose of the whole address, it will bear _one
repetition_. A good illustrative story, brief but pointed, may be worked
in somewhere, perhaps in connection with a modest depreciation of our own
fitness or ability adequately to express the strong feelings of those we
represent, though if one can be found having a connection with the visitors
themselves, it will be still better. What we wish our visitors to do while
with us may also be appropriately referred to. If there are places of
interest for them to visit, work for them to do, or special entertainments
provided,--here is additional matter for remark. All these items may be
run through in a few minutes, and then the address should close. The most
bungling and formal welcome, if short, will be enjoyed more and be more
applauded than the most graceful and eloquent one unduly prolonged. Should
however, in spite of this warning, more "filling in" be desired of an
appropriate character, it may be found almost without limit in setting
forth the claim of the cause which both the visitors and the entertainers
represent--athletic sports, religion, benevolence, education, or what not.