the first three days alone brought in over twenty millions
of dollars. The entire country outside of New York
City contributed in the same time twenty-three millions
more, making the total for that short period forty-three
millions and some odd hundred thousand. The balance
of the whole, in fact more than the whole—the total
being over $115,000,000—was subscribed in a few days
more, making a record which has eclipsed anything here¬
tofore attempted in raising purely voluntary funds.

Valentine's Manual is glad to record this great work
as it is largely if not wholly the generous offerings of
those who are unable for various reasons, perhaps because
they are too old or perhaps too young, to take an active
part in the struggle at the front. There is a place where
every one can do "his bit" and even if it is only the
inglorious one of chipping in when contributions are
called for, this great fund shows that those who are
left at home will not be found wanting.

Marconi's Welcome

It is not often that practical men are successful speech
makers but the following short speech by Marconi the
great inventor is a model of its kind and worth repro¬
ducing as an expression of the Italian character. The
pupils of the William Marconi school at 117th Street
and First Avenue which is named for the great inventor
and is attended largely by Italian children, tendered him
a reception and gave him a heart stirring welcome. In
responding to the greeting he said:—

"Boys, Ladies and Gentlemen: I do not know whether I
shall be able to reply to the many kind things you have said
of me. I do, however, want to express my heartfelt thanks to
you for the tremendous reception you have extended to me and
also to express the joy it gives me to come here and meet the
pupils of the school that has honored me by adopting my name.

"You boys represent the future of this great country and it
is the vitality, enthusiasm and patriotism that you show which
give to your elders who are now engaged in actual war increased
courage to carry on their work. Nothing could please me more
than to see children who are preparing to become citizens of
the great ally of Italy at such time. We are living in stern
times and we must do all in our power to prepare not only to
end this terrible struggle victoriously, but also to prepare for the

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