VOLUNTEER SISTERHOOD

Evening Post, Volume XCI, Issue 55, 6 March 1916, Page 2

VOLUNTEER SISTERHOOD

TO THE EDITOR,

Sir, —Having noticed that there has been considerable controversy in the New Zealand papers with regard to the advisability or otherwise of sending members of the Volunteer Sisterhood to Egypt, I feel that in common fairness to the supporters of the scheme the people of New Zealand should know how very greatly the work of the sisters is appreciated by the troops. At present the Volunteer Sisters are running a refreshment buffet in the Esbekiah Gardens in Cairo, and so much do the boys enjoy a good cup of tea and sandwiches made in the New Zealand style and served by New Zealand ladies, that the place is nightly thronged by hundreds of New Zealand, Australian, and English soldiers. Everywhere one hears expressions of gratitude and appreciation, and if the public of New Zealand, only knew how the buffet keeps the boys out of the v-afes and slums of Cairo, I am sure the scheme would have their whole-hearted support. There is such a feeling of home and of home comfort about the place that everyone feels, while lie is there, that he is nearer home ■ than he- has ever, been since leaving New Zealand. Of course, there are ot-hor attractions in the gardens such as roller skating, picture shows, etc., but I ant quite sure that I voice the opinion of the great majority of the boys when I say that the buffet is the greatest attraction of all. The Volunteer Sisters have to work very hard for nearly twelve hours a day, biit they feel, as we do, that they are doing their bit, and no matter how tired they are,, they are always cheerful and smiling. The scheme is an unqualified success, and is thoroughly deserving of the support of 'the public of New Zealand. Hoping that you will be able to spare sufficient' of your valuable space for the publication of this letter.—l am, etc., ONE OF THE MAIN BODY. N.Z Overseas Base Camp, Cairo, 18th January, 1916.