The imposing structure known as the Permanent Memorial Art Palace, about to be erected on the site of the old exposition building and mentioned in a previous chapter, is to be the scene of some notable gatherings during the continuance of the fair. The building is to be devoted to the exclusive use of the world’s congresses. It will contain two large audience halls, having a seating capacity of 3,500 each, with twenty smaller halls, which may be utilized by committees and other bodies into which congresses are usually divided. These world’s Congresses will be interesting from every standpoint. There will be special congresses of lasting organizations, under the supervision of the auxiliary, to which will be delegated the consideration of all live questions, such congresses being conducted by their own special officers. There will also be popular congresses, open to all who may desire to attend, and at which will be presented for discussion all questions governing the results of human progress in all the channels of civilized life. The discussion will be carried on under the direction of the ablest exponent of that particular branch of knowledge whose services can be procured for the occasion. These congresses, besides providing the various organizations with the opportunity to discuss their interests, will secure to the people the opportunity to hear words of wisdom from the wisest of mankind. Suppose Mr. Gladstone, the most eminent Englishman of his time, should visit the fair, as is not improbable? Should he do so he will unquestionably be invited to deliver an oration. Mr. Gladstone is only one of many European notables who are expected to attend, and they will of course be conspicuous at these world’s congresses in the Permanent Art building.