Anniversary of the Order.

In issuing the usual proclamation for the due observance of the Anniversary of the Order, I took the liberty of departing from the form which had been specially prepared and eminently proper at the time for the observance of a day of thanksgiving and praise after the close of the war, for the harmonious reunion and preservation of the Order "from the desolation that had sundered and scattered into fragments every other organization of a national character, whether moral, religious, or secular," and endeavored to make it more in keeping with the anniversary ceremonies and regulations required to be observed on such occasions, and most respectfully submit it for your approval.