He was followed by a violin and clarinet duet by the Messes Vera and Leona Dickman (NOTE: neighbors and close friends of the Sylvesters.) accompanied by Mrs. Arthur Koenig. A male quartet composed of Messrs. Rohweder, Bolton, Vermilya and Slocumb rendered a very pleasing selection. Mrs. W. Woodcock rendered a solo in her usual pleasing manner that delighted all.
The treat of the evening, which all had looked forward to was when in a few fitting remarks the chairman called on Byrl E. Sylvester to relate his experiences while in the Ambulance Service in France. As he arose he was greeted with the loudest applause of the evening and the whole audience arose in one mass. For a moment he was dazed but soon collected himself and gave a splendid description of experiences and events, from the time he left New York harbor, during his training, service at the front, in the hospitals, until his return to the States and home. During his talk he showed a number of relics obtained in the field, among which were parts of a German Aeroplane. He exhibited a gas mask, showed how it was worn and explained its construction, and also showed the steel helmet he wore while in the service. In concluding he referred to his return home, of the crowd congregated at the depot with the band and a lump in his throat that for a time made him speechless. After taking his seat at the rear of the stage he was presented with a beautiful bouquet of cut flowers by Miriam Rohweder.
A ladies quartet, composed of Mesdames Woodcock, Young, LaCraft and Miss Petterson, rendered a beautiful song. Miss Lutz followed with a reading from Kipling that captivated the audience.
The meeting was closed with a benediction by Mr. H. J. Hill and a selection by the band.
It proved one of the most successful and pleasing gathering that has yet been held in Plainview. Though an admission of but 10 cents was charged to aid in buying yarn for the ladies work, over $50.00 was realized. At the close many remained to inspect Mr. Sylvester’s souvenirs and to greet him once more.
(NOTE: The following is the "Note Card" that Byrl used when giving his speeches. It was typed.)
1. Trip over
.....a. Leaving N.Y.
.....b. Submarine preparation
.....c. Learning to speak French
.....d. Arrival at Bordeaux
2. Arrival in Paris
3. Sandricourt
4. Dijon
5. Leaving for the Front
.....a. War Zone
.....b. People at work
.....c. Trucks in Transport
6. Arrival at Front
.....a. Base Hospitals
7. First Shell fire
8. Trip up to Front Posts
9. Gas Shells
10. Abris
11. German Prisoners
12. French Hospital
.....a. Care
.....b. Bombing
13. Paris Hospital

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