ratively demanded in the Act of Incorporation,
efforts were immediately commenced at the next session of Congress to
effect this purpose. Again the painful, anxious delays, again the
wearisome opposition were encountered. But Miss Baker and the movement
had friends--and in the highest quarters. Her efforts were countenanced
and aided by these, but it was not till the session of 1866 approached
its close that the amended bill was reached, and the votes of both
Houses at last placed the whole matter on a proper footing, and in
competent hands.

With Major-General Butler at the head of the Managing Board of Trustees,
the successful commencement of the Institution is a foregone conclusion.
The Board is composed of some of the best men of the Nation--men, some
of them unequalled in their various spheres. The United States will soon
boast for its disabled defenders Institutions (for the present
management contemplate the establishment of Homes at several points),
fully equal to those which the great Powers of Europe have erected for
similar purposes. In the autumn and winter of 1866-7 Miss Baker
succeeded in consummating the purchase, and tender to the Trustees of
the Asylum of the Point Lookout property.

The labors of Miss Baker for this purpose are now ended. She retires,
not to rest or idleness, but still to lend her efforts to this or any
other great and worthy cause. She has no official connection with the
organization which controls the destiny of the Asylum. But it will not
cease to be remembered in this country that to her efforts the United
States owes in great part all that, as a nation, it has done for the men
who have thus given all but life itself to its cause.

MRS. S. BURGER STEARNS.

This lady is a native of New York city, where she resided for the first
seven years of her life. In 1844 her parents removed to Michigan, where
she has lived ever since, receiving her education at the best schools,
and spending much time in preparation for a classical course at the
State University. She was, however, with other young ladies, denied
admission there, on the ground of expediency; and finally entered the
State Normal School where she graduated with high honors.

She soon after became Mrs. Stearns, her husband being a graduate of the
Literary and Law Departments of the Michigan University. But choosing to
devote himself to the service of his country, he entered the army as
First Lieutenant, afterwards ris