the instructor doubtfully admitted her, as so many of the
High School pupils had found the subject very hard and
preferred a review of other mathematics. She entered the
class, however, on trial, and made a term's record of 5 per
cent, with an examination of 5.5 per cent, 6 per cent being
the highest mark for lessons in college.

During the next term she entered the class of mechanics, and
made a perfect record for term's work and examination.

While attending school she was well liked by her classmates,
being made Treasurer of Aeolian, one of the two college
societies for young women, and was also one of six
representatives chosen for Class Day Exercises. She was
given the place of honor upon the programme, and recited an
original poem, "The Lament of the Old College Bell, Once
First, Now Second."

Mrs. Talbert graduated from Oberlin at the early age of
nineteen, being the only colored member of her class after
the withdrawal of the late Lieutenant John Alexander.

She started out in life equipped not only with a great love
of learning but with all the encouragement which made it
possible for her to follow the inclinations of her mind.

In 1886 she accepted a position in Bethel University, Little
Rock, Ark.

Some women make themselves teachers, but Mrs. Talbert was a