The competition-singing, harmonious, now began, and the different societies followed in quick succession. The name of the society about to sing was announced by a placard so disposed as to be seen by the whole assembly, and also by the standard or banner of the society, which always preceded the members as they came forward on the stage, and waved encouragement over them while they contended for the prize. It may be remarked, that many of these banners were very elegant, being made of the richest velvet or satin, with gold or silver embroidery of mottos, or emblematic figures. Each society sang two pieces, under its own director, entirely without accompaniment.