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Thou art not near me, but I hear thee speak, Sweet as the breath of June upon my cheek. And as thou speakest I forget my fears, And all the darkness, and my lonely tears. O love, my love, whatever our fate may be. Close to thy side, or never more with thee. Absent or present, near or far apart, Thou hast my love and flllest all my heart.

was born in San Francisco, Cal., on the 10th day of July, 1871. Having been deprived of her parents by death when she was quite young, she was cared for by an aunt, who encouraged and fostered her education. She, in after years, married Dr. A. M. Curtis, with whom she went to Chicago to begin life's work. Dr. Curtis is now enjoying a large and lucrative practice; to this energetic lady, doubtless, he owes some of his success. Mrs. Curtis has recently been made Secretary of the Colored Department of the World's Fair at Chicago. Mrs. Curtis is an energetic, faithful, pleasant woman of more than ordinary gifts. She is educated and refined—a great race lover.

This remarkable person was born in Delaware. She did much to educate herself, and far outran many of her sisters who were also free during those dark days of American Slavery. As a lecturer, debater and shrewd speech-maker she was indeed a most wonderful member of the Dark Race.

is the daughter of. the late Charles B. Ray. She has reached a high point of reputation as both an excellent poetical and prose writer. Having received her education in the very excellent