Page:The Message and Ministrations of Dewan Bahadur R. Venkata Ratnam, volume 2.djvu/139

 which it must be engraved; this is a pledge not of words but of thoughts, of ideas, of strivings and of resolves; this is a pledge not of passing interest but of permanent life-adherence. Early and clearly realise this. Without invidiousness, I may tell you that you are at a great advantage in being thus reminded of this latent promise in you. When we were young, there was no such encouragement given to us. Remember, at the same time, that, after all, others can only rouse up what is dormant and foster up what is germinating in you. Remind yourselves individually; remind one another as so many brethren forming an organic body the several parts of which cannot possibly be disconnected; remind yourselves thus, individually and conjointly, that the true life of this Association does not consist in so many meetings, so many conversations or so many lectures. The essential factor of your duty as members lies in upholding these high ideals in your lives. Your perception is keener, your sensitive-