Templars In Session

Kalamazoo, May 16.- The 38th conclave of the grand commandery, Knights Templar of Michigan, began here Tuesday afternoon. The rain early in the morning was disappointing to the ladies. A carriage drive had been arranged by the local committee for their entertainment. But as it began to clear off about 11:30 uiany of tha ladies, despite the dampness, rode to the asylum, where they were given every attention by the officials. In honor of the great occasion many local merchants decorated their stores with fiags and bunting, until the business streets assumed a holiday appearance, which helped to dissipvte' the gloomy day. At 1:30 p. m. the lines of grand commandery were formed at the American House; then nnder the escort of Peninsular commandery, No. 8. Knights Templar, all the members being in full uniform, the procession marched to the Masonic hall, where the grand commandery meets. - At 2 o'clock the grand commandery of the state niet in solemn conclave. The sessiou was opened by Grand Commander Henry L. Anthony of Sturgis. who introduced in a few chosen words Hon. Hugh McCurdy of Corunna, grand master of the grand encampmentof the United States, and who was fraternally aud cordially welcomed to the session. Mr. McCurdy responded in an eloquent address. The grand commander then delivered bis annual address, which showed the condition of the order in this state and its steady increase. The report of the grand secretary was then read, as also that of the grand treasurer. Both reports 6howed that the financial condition of the order was good. At night an elabórate banquet and ball was given the grand commandery by Peninsular Commandery. No. 8. The Masonic temple was magnificently decorated.