CHAPTER I.

FIRST MEETING OP THE NATIONAL COMMISSION.

Appointment 01 commissioners by President Harrison — First meeting convened by Secretary Elaine — Hon. A.
T. Ewing, of Illinois, calls the commission to order in the parlor of the Grand Pacific hotel in Chicago —
Rev. John Barrows makes a prayer — John T. Harris, of Virginia, temporary chairman — Thomas W.Palmer,
of Michigan, unanimously selected as permanent president — John T. Dickinson, of Texas, made permanent
secretary in the same way — Sketches of the lives of these two gentlemen — Selection of vice-presidents —
Adjournment . j<^