News For Women

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21404, 21 February 1935, Page 2

News For Women

I CURRENT NOTES Mrs Coleridge Farr left on Tuesday for a visit to Wellington. Friends of Miss Ruth Sympns, who was injured in the cricket match on Monday, will be pleased to hear that she is making satisfactory progress towards recovery. Miss F. Gill, who has been staying with her sister, Mrs Charles E. Leslie (Timaru), has returned to Christchurch. Miss R. L. Prebble ("Trenodden," Ashburton) and Miss Lorna Lambie ("Inverell," Ashburton) are at present visiting Christchurch. Mrs J. G. Nolan and her sister, Miss Woolcombe, arrived from Tii maru yesterday and are staying at Warwick House. Miss Alice Philpotts, who for seven years was in charge of the hospital at Christ's College, will arrive in Christchurch to-morrow and will stay with her sister, Mrs C. G. Wilkin, Wroxton terrace. Sir Archibald and Lady Edmonstone (England), who have been on a tour of »te Southern Lakes and Mount Cook| left Christchurch via Kaikoura and Picton for Wellington, and will sail to-day on the return voyage. While in Christchurch. they were entertained by Mrs W. F. Kent-Johnston at her home in Knowles street. Sir Archibald was groom-in-waiting to King Edward, and Lady Edmonstone was lady-in-waiting to Princess Christian. Mr and Mrs G. March (Loburn), accompanied by their daughters, Jeannette and Ailsa March and their nephew, Mr Grant Jamieson (Timaru), will leave to-night for Wellington and will sail bv'the Potorua on "Saturday en route for England. Mrs G. Hennessy (Morven) is the guest of her mother, Mrs C. S. Bowden, Papanui road. Mrs F. Parson (Webb street i left last night for the north to visit relatives and friend? in Wellington. Miss Nora Good (Hawera) is the guest of Mrs Stone-Wigg, Waihi College, Winchester. Mr and Mrs George I. Hamilton will leave to-day for Wellington to join the Rotorua en route for England. They expect to be away for six or seven months. Mrs A. Rogerson (England) is visiting Mr and Mrs J. R. C. Matthews, Sefton. Miss B. Gould (Christchurch) is staying with her sister. Mrs R. M. Innes, "Fiveways," Orari. Miss Marjorie Nairn (Hawke's Bay), who has been spending a few days in Christchurch as the guest of Mrs John Moore (Garden road). J will leave to-day on her return to ! the North Island. She will leave I early next month for a visit to Eng- j land. ! The engagement is announced of Frances Mary O'Donel. elder daughter of Professor R. E. Alexander, C.M.G., and Mrs Alexander, Lincoln College, to David, only son of Mr Addison McLecd, Wimbledon. London, and the late Mrs McLeod. At the annual festival of the j Mothers' Union of the Christchurch | Diocese held yesterday, membrrs dc- ] cided to send the following message ! to their president, Mrs West-Wat- i son. who is resting at Kowai ! Bush. "Members of the Mothers'] Union assembled in St. John's | schoolroom, send loving wishes for! your recovery. - ' \

Mrs M. Maning. who recently arrived in Christchurch with her husband, the new manager of the Christchurch branch of the Bank of Australasia, is a keen social and church worker. She was a foundation member of the Hamilton branch of the Mothers' Union and had been president of that organisation for three years. She had also been superintendent of the Sunday school, and a member of the Ladies' Guild of St. Peters Church, and a committee member of the orphanage. Before her departure for Christchurch, the St. Peter's Guild and Mothers' Union combined to entertain her at an enjoyable parly, and she was presented with a beautiful Dresden dressing table set and a brown leather handbag. The Bishop of Waikato expressed regret at her departure, and spoke of her faithful service to the church, and during the afternoon she was also presented with a bcuquet of tiger lilies from the orphanage committee. At a party arranged by the wives of Hamilton bank managers, Mrs Mailing was presented with a bronze inlaid enamel vase, and at one of a number of private parties, she received an album of Hamilton views as a souvenir. LEARN TO KNIT Get "Woolcraft"—invaluable to beginners—which gives simple and practical instructions for making all kinds of woollen garments—men's, women's, children's. All best-known and new stitches explained. 96 garments illustrated. Send lOd stamps to Patons and Baldwins, Ltd., Box 1441R, Wellington. _3 SUN-BATHING DISCOVERY! N.Z. sun-bathers can now avail themselves of the remarkable new I.P.L. EMOLLIENT. This new discovery EMOLLIENT, if applied before exposure, filters out that portion of the ultra-violet ray which causes burn—yet it leaves a glorious, even healthy tan. If applied after burning it gives instantaneous relief by expelling the poisons of the burn. IP L EMOLLIENT is obtainable in generous bottles at 1/6. _g TOILET HINTS. Taveners (Vincents) double-strength hair restorer (guaranteed not a dye) restores white, grey, and faded streaky hair to natural colour Certain dandruff remedy, 2/6, posted 3/6, from Toilet Salons, and Tavener, Chemist, 183 High street. Christchurch. —3 POISE. A woman of poise is a woman who carries her head well, and nothing makes a woman want to hold her head proudly so much as an original and fashionable Eugene Permanent Wave by the Annette Tpilet Salon (two doors from Tivoli Theatre). Ring 41-042 for the appointment. —2 MANY HAPPY RETURNS. .TO.. STONrHURST. The popularity of this Christchurch Private Hotel is evidenced by the .e----turn visits made by many of its guests. Among Stonehurst's attractions are comfortable bedrooms, good bathrooms, splendid table, laundry facilities for ladies, etc.. 12/6 per day, £3 10s weekly. Hotel Stonehurst, Christchurch. 2

The Lady Editor will be pleased to receive for publication in "News for Women" items of social or personal news. Such Items should be fully authenticated, and engagement notices must bear the signatures of both parties. Correspondence is invited on any matters affecting, or of interest to, women.

MOTHERS' UNION

| ANNUAL CHURCH SERVICE SERMON BY THE REV. W. J. HANDS The annual church service for members of the Mothers' Unions was held in the Anglican Cathedral yesterday morning. The cathedral was well filled by members from all the branches in and around Christchurch. The Rev. W. J. Hands, vicar of Avonside, was the preacher. Mr Hands took as his text the thirteenth verse of the sixty-sixth chapter of Isaiah: 'As one whom his mother, comforteth, so will I comfort you." He explained that this was the only occasion in the Old Testament where God was likened to a mother in His care. The Jewish religion was essentially a masculine one, but in the New Testa- ! ment, though Christ referred to God in the Hebrew word Abba, father. He frequently referred to the care and tenderness of God as of a mother. Woman then took her proper place in Christianity. Women were as numerous among the friends of Jesus as men, and all the best characteristics of women were to be found in the character of Jesus. Christianity had sometimes been called an effeminate religion, a belief for women alone. It was certainly true that women were thought more of in worship in Christianity than in many of the other faiths. If it could inspire women such as Joan of Arc, Nurse Cavell and Florence Nightingale, then God could be thanked that it was a faith suited to women, "When we think of absent friends, we find that we must imagine the person and so we think in mind pictures," I said the preacher. "In the same way I we must conjure up mind pictures of a sort when wc think of God and pray to Him. The difference in -the religions of the world lies mainly in the different mind pictures that each creed forms of God, and in the Bible we havo the treasure book of religious imagination. God is shown to us as King, shepherd, workman, warrior, husband, brother, and friend. All these give some picture and some characteristic of His nature; but the most satisfying and the most influential on our lives is the picture of God as Father. "It is the one name that Jesus Christ found at all adequate as He frequently used it as both 'My Father' and 'Your Father.' Yet even that still left something out as it did not present a complete picture of the divinity. There was lacking the motherly affection." I Although the rain prevented mem- i bers from holding their annual garden party at Bishopscourt in the afternoon, they did not abandon their programme, but concluded the festival in St. John's schoolroom. Latimer square. By 2.30 i p.m. there was barely standing room j for the latc-ccmcrs. ! Archibshop Julius. who oflicially ' | welcomed members, said that he had] | arrived prepared for a melancholy i meeting, but' the cheerful atmosphere | had dispelled his fears. Seeing mem- ] I bers crowded together in the hall made I him realise how ihe movement had [grown in the diocese, and to him it' j>ecmed not only to grow, but to.gather : strength i\nd wisdom, and width of out- [ ! lock each year. Perhaps one uf the ' ] reasons why ihe Union had flourished! , while many other organisations had j ] faded into obscuritv was that it had i | not accepted as :i.s ohibboleth the word ' I "forbidden." The whole spirit of [Christian teaching was something other ; | thrsii protest, he said. People did not j see enough of the positive, which I should be exalted in an effort to try to make life graceful and beautiful. "We should encourage others to higher and nobler things instead of warning them against the depths," he added. He regretted that illness had prevented the attendance of the Bishop and Mrs West-Watson, who sent greetings. The Rev. F. N. Taylor led the devotions, and Mrs Taylor welcomed the Archbsihop. It was decided that the following resolution, which was carried unanimously, should be sent to the proper authorities: "That members of the Christchurch Diocesan Mothers' Union assembled at St. John's schoolroom, having learnt with sorrow of the intention to hold a marriage ceremony in connexion with the carnival on the New Brighton beach, and regarding this procedure as highly derogatory to the dignitv and sanctity of marriage, earnestly appeals to pll who are concerned with the project to abandon out of Christian charity an action which cannot but hurt the deeper feelings of a large section of their fellow citizens." ! Mission Work Mrs G. Mason, who has been a missionary in Melanesia for almost 22 years, spoke of her work amongst the natives and her efforts to raise the outlook of the mothers. Her efforts had met with little success until she had married and had been able to demonstrate with her small son the proper care of babies. A Mothers' Union had eventually been formed, and her present to each new-born baby of a member was a 21b fruit tin to be used as a bath, a gift greatly coveted. Usually 90 women attended the union meetings, and from their own small savings and the help of a friend in England they had been able to have their own banner for the church. Cement and other materials for an ant and earthquake proof building had recently been sent to the Solomon Islands from Melbourne by the parents of C. Sage, who was drowned off the coast of Mala and it was hoped that when the building was completed the Mothers' Union would have the use of one of the chapels for its meetings.

EVENING PARTY To honour Miss Suzette Pritchetl, whose marriage will take place early next month, Miss Rewa Campbell was hostess at a pleasant little Rift party held at "Orwell," Church lane. The drawing-room was decorated with hydrangeas and pink lilies. An amusing competition was won by Miss Ethel Claridge. Miss Campbell's guests were Miss Suzette Pritchett, Mrs Stanley Boddington, Misses Betty Pritchett, Molly Dailey, Marjory Moody, Betty Williams. B. Cookson, Dorothy Berggren and lima Berggren.

WEDDINGS DAVID—COOPER A large number of friends showed a kindly interest in the wedding celebrated by the Rev. A. K. Warren, at St. Mary's Church, Merivale, yesterday afternoon. The bride was Joan Campbell, elder daughter of the late Colonel Charley Cooper, and of Mrs Cooper, Brown's road, St. Albans, and the bridegroom. Richard Douglas, elder son of Mrs I. E. David, London, England. Mr A. Worsley was organist. Blue hydrangeas had been arranged with cream flowers and greenery throughout the church. The bride's beautiful frock of magnolia satin, cut on the bias, was made on classical lines, the cowl folds of the high neckline being draped to the right side and caught with a round pearl-studded ornament, a similar ornament being placed above the slash at the back of the, bodice. The sleeves were long, and closre-fitting, and a panel, cut in one with the frock, gradually widened out from the waistline and formed an oval train. An uncommon chaplet of pearl.orange blossom held in place her long veil of cut tulle, edged with fine gold thread, which was worn over the face, and she carried a sheaf of philipinense lilies.

Dr. W. J. His]op escorted the bride, who was attended by her sister, Miss Ann Cooper, and Miss Elizabeth Harris. Their frocks of deep cream georgette, were mounted on gold taffeta, and fastened with tiny georgette buttons from the neck to the waistline of the bodice at the back. The soft berthes, which gave a sleeve effect, were caught to the centre of the.neckline in front and shirred with gold thread, and the low flares of the skirts, tucked into vandyked points below the knees, were weighted with double folds of the material. Plaited girdles of gold lame were caught under large lame bows at the back of the waistlines, and their plaited head bands were of matching lame. Cream and gold (lowers were arranged in their trailing bouquets. Mr George Milne .(Dunedin) was best man. and Messrs Lewis Black, Owen Johnstone, and H. Houghton iGlen Wye) were the ushers.

Mrs Cooper entertained the guests at her home, where soft pastel-shaded (lowers predominated in the floral decorations throughout the reception and dining-rooms. She was wearing a midnight-blue lace frock made with a cowl neckline, the short sleeves of her matching coatee being banded with skunk fur. Her wide-brimmed navy velour felt hat was finished with a blue and white quill placed across the centre of the crown, and she wore also a spray of cream begonias. Mrs W. Shand (Wellington), the bride's aunt, wore a black frock of georgette and lace, brightened with a spray of pink carnations, and her picture hat was of black straw. A black lace frock and a smart black hat relieved with touches of pink were worn by Mrs Hislop. The bride travelled in a shaded blue and white crepe de chine frock, trimmed with kilting placed vertically on the Douched sleeves, and on the skirt, where it continued around the hemline. A silver ivy leaf trimmed the shoulder and clasped the narrow belt, and the collar and lapels of her navy wool georgette coat were bordered with sable fur. Her hat of navy velcur was turned up smartly at the back.

; KK HARDSON—O'DRISCOLL The wedding of Lucy Josephine, eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs W. J. O'Driscoll (Waitawa. South Canterbury), and William Thomas, third son | of Mrs M. Richardson (Timaru), took place yesterday morning in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Timaru. The Rev. M. Murphy. S.M.. performed the ceremony and celebrated Nuptial Mass, and Mrs N. D. Mangos was organist. The church was decorated with begonias and pink gladioli. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore a trained frock of ivory georgette, made with an ovalshaped lace yoke, which extended over the shoulders to the long, tight-IHUng sleeves, and was finished with frillings of georgette. Her embroidered tulle veil was arranged with clusters of orange blossom, and she carried a sheaf of cream gladioli. Miss Molly O'Driscoll. sister of the bride, and Miss Molly McGrath, her cousin, were the bridesmaids, and their frocks were of water-lily green tucked organdie, weighted with ruching on the deep flounces of the skirts. Wide frilling formed the sleeves and green satin sashes were tied at the back of the waistlines. They wore Tuscan straw hats banded with green satin, and carried armlets of yellow roses. Miss Sheila McGrath, cousin of the bride, attended as (lower girl, wearing a carnation pink organdie frock. The skirt was composed of frills, the bodice had short puffed sleeves, and a green satin sash defined the waist. The wreath of pink flowers in her hair toned with the pink flowers in her basket. Mr John Richardson iDuitedin) was best man. and Mr Richard Kelly (Timaru) was groomsman. The .quests were received at the home of the bride's parents. Mrs O'Driscoll was wearing an ensemble of black san crepe, the sleeves of the frock being of striped tangerine and white crepe. Her black hat was trimmed with tangerine, and she carried a bouquet of Iceland poppies. Mrs Richardson wore a frock of black lace and georgette, and a black pandan straw hat. She carried a bouquet of deep cream roses. The bride travelled in a tunic frock of reseda-green wool crepe trimmed with white log buttons, and a white felt hat trimmed with green

ST. JOSEPH'S FETE A successful dance held at the home of Mrs Lawlor, Papanui, was arranged by the younger members of the flower stall for the forthcoming fete of St. Joseph's parish. Songs were sung by Miss Harrison, and a tap dance was given by Mr Robins. Miss N. Mclntce and Mr Robins won a novelty dance. Music was supplied by Mrs Eyres, Mr Smith Played for extras, and the toaster of ceremonies was Mr J. Burke. Those present were Mesdames M. Percasky J. Richards, Carol, Misses M. Connell, A. Burke, T. Burton, K. Highsted A. Fielding, Molly Mclntee. N. Mclntee. A. Preston, F. Ashby, Overend, C. Bertram, M. Ashby I. and D. Hanrahan. E. Harrison, M. Sim, D. Burke. 1. Burke, M. Sim, C. Hanra- £ an c e u Sr T S £? rol ' J - Lawlor, Colthart, X. Smith, J. Highsted. Murphy, B. Connell, A. Burke, Robins, F. Ashby, P Percasky K Halligan, J. Ashby, L. Mclntee. D. Smith, J. Richards, and J Burke.

VISITORS TO CHKISTCHLKCH Nmv f:,ty Hotel: Mr and Mrs A. Tilt (London, Mr and Mrs A. Park (Wellington) „nd Mrs 11. H. Uhnville (Middlemarch). Hotel Federal: Mr and Mr,. H. 11. Dear*.v, Mr and -Mr., A. J. Ferguson, and Mrs K. h. 1-ergiison (Auckland), Mr and Mrs 0. Mov.a (ClievHH), Mr and Mrs 1,. B. Huton (I nvereargiH), Mr and .Mrs R. SutlierAr ,1 11 .^\ i " 1 « an ' li ». Mesdames G. N. Goldie a\ell,nson , W. It. Johns (Waitara). and «. K. MeAlDino (Spve). Warner's Hotel: Mrs Renwick (Dungree), Mr and Mrs lan S. Itennie (Culver- .'»).» arsnj Mrs 11. W. Hobbs (Auckland). United Service Hotel: Mr and Mrs John tarrcll (Auckland).-Mr and Mrs L- H Tingov (Wellington), Mr and Mrs J. T„ . Whiteman (Buenos Aires), Mrs A. F. Ilamsav and Miss K. Parker (Melbourne) Clarendon Hotel: Mr and Mrs U Kentledge (Dunedin). Mr and Mrs A. Wright, Mr T. T). Wright, and Miss I.). B. Wright (Oamai-n ).

FOR CAKE-FREE LIVING THE COMFORTABLE HOME A PLACE OF RELAXATION A home, above all things, must bo a place of relaxation. To live in a beautifully furnished house which is not comfortable is like living in a museum. One must walk about and sit down with care, must not drop cigarette ash, must not move the furniture to a more convenient position —must, in short, make oneself completely uncomfortable in order that the beauty of the furniture may be preserved, writes a contributor to the "Woman's Journal." But a house where the whole family can move about with comfort, can sink down into chairs without fear of breaking the springs, is a real home, and worth striving to achieve. Naturally, the choice of furniture is the most important factor. Fortunately, these days, the trend of design is towards simplicity. Scarcity of domestic labour and the interest taken by most women in problems outside their home have made it very necessary that furniture should be easy to clean and be kept in good condition with the minimum of labour. Walls and Floors Delicate wallpapers which showed every mark are no longer popular. Washable wallpapers, distempers, and oil paints have superseded' them. Fingermarks can be washed off, and there is no longer any need to raise the old cry, "Don't mark the wallpaper." Plain carpets, it must be admitted, do show marks more easily than those with a small all-over design. But as they make for restfulness, and when fitted to the skirting, for cosiness, too, it is worth shutting one eye to this drawback. A good pile carpet, however, will wear for a long time without needing to be cleaned if it is taken care of properly. Sweeping grit into the carpet- instead of out of it, by brushing the pile in the wrong way, soop wears out the thickest and sturdiest weaves, but vacuum cleaners are' an invaluable help, and to possess one it is worth economising in other directions.

And now for the main help towards making a home really homelike —the furniture. Choose the simplest lines and sturdy woods, and you will not go far wrojig. Oak. if it is good oak, not stained deal, is one of the hardest of woods, and if it is light, will need no polishing. Australian walnut is another hard-wearing wood, and is good with the fabrics of to-day. Fruit trees, apple, cherry, and pear also give

sound timber, as do some of the woods from Canada and Australia, Columbian pine, and Queensland maple. Mahogany is a hard-wearing wood, but it does not look at its best when it is made up in the style of to-day, and accompanied by modern fabrics. It needs elaborate design and expensive brocades to set it off to advantage. Built-in furniture is a splendid ally when one is trying to achieve a carefree atmosphere. If you plan the accommodation you want very carefully, you can get the local carpenter to do the actual work. This furniture saves a lot of work, and is extremely useful. Unit furniture, made on the straightest of straight lines, is nlso good.

Fabrics for Upholstery

The rush and bustle of modern life have banished delicate silk from our homes. We have no time to treat it with care, and we want something sturdy that we can live with easily. All the new tweed-like fabrics used for upholstery fulfil this need. Linen, or linen tweed, makes excellent and very hard-wearing curtains. So does cotton. It is a better investment to buy a fadeless cotton fabric that launders easily and quickly than it is to get a more delicate imitation silk.

With this type of background, few ornaments are necessary, but they must be well chosen. Bowls and jugs of good shape in glass or pottery, and plenty of (lowers will make your rooms far more attractive than a lot of fussy accessories. The simpler the colour schemes you choose for your home these days the better will you reveal the design of fabric and wood. Light backgrounds, pale primrose, French grey, a soft silvery green, a pale turquoise, all are good if the aspect of the room is considered before the scheme is chosen. Simply designed fabrics, or those that rely on their weaves for decoration, are best for hangings. Avoid over-large, fantastic designs. They are bad modernism, and extravagance in its worst form, as you will so quickly tire of them, and need more. The best modern fabrics are restrained in colouring and design, never flamboyant or self-conscious; and this applies to rugs as well. So let your home be a simple one where everyday life can be enjoyed in ease and comfort.

WOMEN'S DIVISION OF FARMERS' UNION DIAMOND HARBOIR-I'I'HAU The monthly meeting of the Diamond Harbour-Purau branch of the Women's Division of the Farmers' Union was held in the golf pavilion, Diamond Harbour, on Tuesday evening, Mrs Harold Gardiner presiding. ' The secretary reported that an evening social held in January had realised £4 6s 6d for the funds. It was decided that a small gift from the members should be made to the little daughter of Mrs H. H. Gardiner, the first baby born to a member since the inauguration of the branch. An opportunity was taken to say goodbye to Miss Lynley Jackson, who will leave next month for a visit to England. During the evening Miss Isherwocd read a play, "The Rest Cure." Competition winners were:—Vase of flowers: Miss P. Hunter 1, Miss N. Gardiner 2. Best worked buttonhole: Mrs A. Pope 1, Mrs A. Gardiner 2. Mrs Alan Jackson and Misses Runa and Doris Gardiner were the hostesses. MUSICAL COMEDY COMPANY The Christchurch Musical Comedy Company held an enjoyable little dance in the Jellicoe Hall last night, the organising committee being Misses R. Pedder, I. Beale, M. Donaldson, Messrs F. Pitt. A. Pedder, and J. H. Beale (secretary). The object of the dance was to foster the social intercourse of members and to raise funds for the initial expenses of the forthcoming production "Sally." Supper tables, arranged in cabaret style in the ballroom, were decorated with pink and mauve asters and pink belladonna lilies. . Among those present were Mesdames A. Dickson. J. Burridge, T. Wright, R.

T. Cargill. N. McKenzie, C. Hindle, B. Rennell. D. McKivett, R. Peterson, Misses E. Evans. Grant, J. Brosnahan, Betty Beaven, Elma Craighead. V. Beale. Jessie Dickson, Wilders McMullan, Kathleen Read. Audrey Brown, Eila Brown, Eileen Henry, Lettie Hervcy, Estelle Doherty. Lottie Colville, Myra Grennell. Audrey Crotty, Grace Nixon. Lou Cameron, Pat Lynskey, Doris Hinchey. W. Henderson, H. Pattison. A. Fitzgerald. S. Archbold, N. Hamilton, E. Robinson, A. Blundell, B. McKenzie, and H. Todhunter.

FREE KINDERGARTEN RICHMOND Mrs E. Hitchcock presided at the first meeting held this year by the committee of the Richmond Free Kindergarten. Before the business session, members stood in silence as a tribute to the memory of the late Mrs K. E. Marshall, who had worked with them almost from the opening of the school, 14 years ago. The resignation of Mrs S. McCausland, owing to her impending departure for Dunedin, was received with much regret. Mrs F. Pyne and Mrs S. Geary asked for three months' leave of absence. The roll number was reported to be 70. Members discussed the Cook Strait copper trail, a challenge from the Wellington association, and it was reported that progress was being made with the sale of penny tickets, each currying the Christchurch association two yards towards the winning post. The committee had helped at a jumble -sale to assist the fund, and it was decided that members should be in charge of the sweets stall at the garden party to be held at the home of Mrs K. Hadfield, Shirley, on March 2. Have you anything to sell—Do you wish to buy? If so, a small advertisement in the classified section of "The Press" will be all you need. 12 words Is, three insertions 2s 6d. —6

KUSSIAX GIRL'S ODYSSEY

PANDERINGS IN MANY

LANDS

HEMOBIE.- <>V MANCHURIA

■ u . tt jo years of -uch wanderings I .', P seldom :r:r.iu.ir.cd outside Ihe fiction a young Russian girl, ,'-f"Valentin'- D::ik'"V, has lately arJJ in Chri.tchu.vh. She is one of „1 two New South Wales teachers to New Zealand at the be- ;., ~r th/> year under the teachers' 't±2Tge schc-me, and she is at present .«oed in teaching at the PhillipsDuring her year in the jjaeision she hopes to see a great the country and its people. Life in Manchuria jtu Diakof! is the elder daughter of •;* iate Professor Diakofl, formerly cjeric" of education in Manchuria. building of the Chinese Hiiihvay. .nunerous towns •jy-V up along t!ie line, and at one 2»V;<"'- Tiicar. Mis.- Diai:off was born. .'^7r*: : he ai.d .'.■':' parents lived in Vs't'::;, of v. i'.icii siic has many vivid '-"ar.c'r'ics of bitterly cold winters, i-i hot. dusty summers, of the hawk- ,--. ar.d' pedlars who thronged the .I^*with a continual crying of their ■iirej. of Russian refugees, of Japan««so!diers, of Chinese bandits, of the -jo'v nat.ci:iah;iv • which rubbed el'xn'i ii : 'i<-' > ; ''cets. So severe was •7< Harbir, climate that its well-to-do 'iian '!.': b:t;er.:- went often to Sous he::l!:i rr.crts. and it was v.ti:e a'. o:ie <>f these, lmanpo. east•lird lo'vards Vhidivostock, that Miss I&ici! ( ' r ' a; '■■' l"- through a night of wor- v -' a: ' cinly a child at the tie. but Mie remembers the darkened vjic. v.-ilh the women and children OTchinj,' on tiie fit or waiting for the •so shots with wh ch the sentry was •3 give the alarm that the banfiits had isived. At last, the shots were heard. .43' hour followed, and then another, 'zA at last new.s was brought to the •ariSed women and children that the rafltLts hed retired to the hills. A Jsjcnese armoured train had come up z the night, and frightened them Japan and the U.S.A. A little more than 10 years ago f,fr-ts in Manchuria caused Professor Datoff to decide to take his family to ij-e other land. The family travelled in a leisurely way through Korea, ~di across to Japan. Miss Diakofl .3-KJ Japan, possibly, she admits, bewx of its utter unlikeness to the mi Manchunan landscapes she had sown; and her last view of Fuji-,-ina. ncitinji into the blue of the :rrasthe Mr.p drew away from Yoko- ■ -/-a rt::.u;ii:, a haunting memory. By :_: t::.e :}:<■ '■',;,., studying English in ;xd cjrni- ' m preparation for a

•:V. to A:r.iTica, where her father landed to study modern educational .TiswL:. Crossing the Pacific, the ir.Jy ';;:;ri d c it Vancouver, whence ■:*;• j<j .:!,'. ;■<. ci to San Francisco, ana. k/.ir to N'ew York. Soon afterwards. I'is; Dtakot'f v.tis enrolled among the |H ft )j j!'.:'j.-Ms of Berkeley Univcuity. rr:':r; ;;< r -truggle with the English :£' r %3x- i.'-'-atr.'..' more intense, but the ::.-'iry'n.:: kindness of Iter professors ■s'.pti i: r r t':rough some difficult In Mf\ic'i r> .-jr.' -.rah university experience 'i' 7j*. to be prolonged, for I'rofes■:r j:iijff was drawn towards Mexico :;•• aswnts of the cheapness of land «:: libour. and , thought that hi.> *::.'...'y night iinda home ihere. How*vr:, vhen hj- reached Guadalajara, "■--- district ii; which lie intended to *"'.z, he discovered that land was ''.es? only because those who had '•;TZft\y owned it had eifher D'eeu CM or driven away; so on he and :.* family went, to Mexico City, where Xis DiakofT was. r-oon hard at work, s *-iy«ig Spaiiiih. with a view to en'*r~.g the- university. "I should rove *'.' have studied there." says Miss Dia- «•?. There was something very attractive about the idea of being a "■:dfßt at the oldest university in the Sew World." France—and Australia Professor DiakofT found that in fcxxo there was nothing to be done, *~i the family set out for Europe. They travelled through Cuba, staying •rate time in Havana; then they t-ojsed the Atlantic, and passed '"-ough Spain. Later came France, '«ere Miss DiakoiT was soon busily f "Saged in studying French, as a preparation for entering the university. 2:*. here, again, Fate intervened; and «'■«• a short residence in Paris the B'-isian pilgrims set out for Austraf- By that time the resources of ;■'- family were becoming strained. •"• '•'•a- necessary that we should lind ''•" Mis:, DiakofT. "Alas, there v "j'. none for my father, while my into Spanish and French rii f.o» improved my accent when in English. I applied for many ?«:t:cns. but no one would engage y /- At last, in desperation. I became •- r -~panio>i in an Australian, home, so ;*• I could learn to speak better J-'-giish. After three month? of that, • «P?ht-d tor a position as sales-girl J 1 we of the big draper/ stores in The manager told me that ,-*_ required only experienced girls,, asked him how was I to become J Piac-:iced when no one would give ''■'-, a chance to learn. He relented, !,''i rt mained in the store until I y-f go to the Teachers' College. ( -"cortur.ately, my Russian matriculaj^.'"??s not entitle me to attend an ;_.Strsijan university, although I am .;•■« tnat matter.-; fre differently ar-''■'-'d !! » New Zealand.' ''"he Charm of New Zealand wr* years a „ 0 Mlss Diakoirs s-jf* v ''f'it to Russia. "But I felt if, d vested too much of my liu ! r? ve]1 "«K about the world," she is.'" \,f s -->ed beliind, in Austra- :<'- :'.'% Diuko'f has taught in Syd- ,.•■; «t Walla Walla and at Grafton, y.J.' ' e ''Wnr-rii coast. Since she has "-dv '■'"' tla '' con tinued to "■'"'■' Y-'m v ''hich ;: !ie now speaks ..,;■ a tract of foreign intona.•Vr,. r '" loe ' JUo > 1 lias also claimed her •>."'', '■ ijnd -''lie has done a fair .2 '.'r , publ "' in Austrabr,'!* Ehe has f;i "c" under the h'**<-? <, e ' v Zealand. As yet. she ',«»•'.,: . Ml '-' h 'Js seen little of the "•**.''•■!, „ shp !ovr ' s what she has '"•*n Jar. U v, ' lldor and more rugged I "'*. ••bi.t°": r ? f -,'' rjU, ' s "." Miss Dia- '"* rr. f /r ls con! '>Hially remindJii . ij:m - Tlic ? re is the same '■*'•'* rivf-r- V ar, .V v of ii'mnspbere. you vour m« l ,ar " J ,hoso of Ja P a "' !*«emv ft m -i alrendy -"on-owing beys wa »derings did not fco bn "g us all to New Zealand."

WOMEN'S INSTITUTES

HORNBY Mrs R. Hepburn presided at the monthly meeting of the Hornby Women's Institute. Mrs Robinson, a member of the Greymouth Institute, was welcomed. Arrangements were made for the show to be held in April, and nominations were received for the new committee. A demonstration of smocking was given by Miss E. Holder, Christchurch. The competition for a hand-knitted cushion resulted: Mrs J. Rowe 1. and Mrs E. G. Walker 2. Hostesses for the afternoon tea were Mesdames J. Rowe, Kingsford, P. Cannon, and C. Marsh. COALGATE The Coalgate Women's Institute picnic was lecently held by kind permission of Mr G. Grigg, "Haldon," on that part of his estate bordered by the Hororata stream. The willows provided pleasant shade for the many families who attended, and all made merry in bathing, paddling, games, and races. Results of races were as follows:—Children's race, under 5 years: Maureen McCaughan 1, Stanley Prestidge 2. Girls' race: Janet Smith 1. Joan Smith 2. Boys' race: Albert Johnstone 1. Edwin Tilley 2. Single women's race: Miss Roa Calwell 1, Miss Doreen Prestidge 2. Elopement race: Mrs Calwell and Mr C. Collings 1, Mrs Brown and Mr Tom Joyce 2. Men's novelty race: Scott 1, Tom Joyce 2. Shoe jumble race: Mrs McCaughan 1, Mrs Scott 2. The blind man's buff was won by Pat Randall (Christchurch). During the afternoon tea. Mrs Cokings (president) presented the race prizes, and later a pleasant community sing was conducted by Mr CalwelJ KAIAPOI At the monthly meeting of the Kaiapoi Women's Institute held in the Orange Hall, the president, Mrs A. Blakeley, presided over a large attendance of members. Also present as guests were a large number of mem- ! bers of the Ohoka branch, to whom a cordial welcome was extended. Four; new members were also welcomed. As \ the institute had been requested to as- j sist in the forthcoming Beautifying Association's carnival as the winter committee, it was decided to hold a poster afternoon and to accept Mr Gray's offer of the Gray Raven Hall for "the occasion. Members were reminded of the annual meeting and election which take place next month, and were requested to send in nominations for the committee to the secretary. Mrs F. Moore reported that a link had been established with the Women's Institute in Sweetwater, Peace River District, British Columbia, and that much interesting and helpful correspondence was anticipated. During the afternoon an amusing competition was won bfMrs Madeley, who later contributed a recitation. Miss Peggy Dixon gave an exhibition of dancing, and Mrs L. G. BilclifE sang a song. The competitions resulted as follows:—Best bloom, Mrs E. J. Corcoran 1. Mrs F. Coup 2, Mrs W. Richards 3; raspberry jam, Mrs W. Richards 1, Mrs J. W. Barnard 2, Mrs E. J. Corcoran 3; bowl of asters, Mrs J. Johnston 1, Mrs W. Richards 2, Mrs B. Forrest 3. The hostesses were Mesdames H. Millar, P. Hunt, L. Wilson, H P. Todd, J. Colman. H. Hamlin, Misses Griffiths, N. Stark, and A. Hopkins. LITTLE RIVER The monthly meeting of the Little River Women's Institute was held in the Town Hall. Mrs Vanstone presided. Nominations for committee were received for the annual meeting to be held in March. The competition for the best arranged bowl of roses was won by Mrs Dickson, and for the best slice of Christmas cake by Miss J. Keenan. The subject chosen for the debate was "The World is a better place to live in than it was 50 years ago." The final decision was given in favour of the affirmative. The hostesses were Mesdames T. E. Stanbury, .1. Lewthwaite, Trail, and Misses McQueen, M. and N. Brankin.

HORORATA There was a large attendance of adults and children at the picnic of the Coalgate Women's Institute, held at the Hororata river on Mr Grigg's property, the outing being greatly enjoyed by all The Coalgate Institute had made complete arrangements, and the first picnic was an outstanding success. A sports programme was gone through and resulted in some close contests, both in the children's and adults' events. WAIPARA At the December meeting of the Waipara Women's Institute, Mrs L. Baker presided over a good attendance of members and friends. Mr C. Blyth (Christchurch) gave an interesting demonstration on making baskets. The results of the competitions were:—Plate of mixed biscuits: Mrs Topp 1, Mrs L. McGuckin 2. Home-made Christmas gift: Mrs Topp 1, Mrs Conway 2. The hostesses were Mesdames Darroch, Conway, and Miss Cameron. LEESTON Miss R. Bowden presided over tli-s monthly meeting of the Leeston Night Circle of the Women's Institute, at which there was a very good attendance. One new member was elected. The North Canterbury Federation extended an invitation for the annual meeting to be held in Christchurch in May, and it was decided to make arrangements at a later date. An interesting address was given by Mr F. W. Page on the art of public speaking. His experience in debating and dramatic circles and the advice tendered proved very helpful, and he was accorded the thanks of the meeting. A competition for the best man's buttonhole resulted:—Misses R. Cunningham and E. Hurford (equal) 1, Misses G. Mitchell, F. Hickman, and C. Cooke (equal) 2. Miss M. Cooke 3. The hostesses were Misses F. Hickman, B. Gorman, V. Fussell, A. Free, and S. Mertin. ISROOKSIDE At the first meeting of the Brookside Women's Institute for this year, Mrs F. S. Candy presided over a fair attendance. In a letter the Returned Soldiers' Association thanked the institute for disposing of soldiers' handicraft goods. There was a good response to the roll-call, "A cold sweet.' A very interesting travel talk, entitled "A Trip Round the World," was given by the Hev. F. B. Lawrence, who was accorded a vote of thanks. The competition, "Best value sixpenny grocery parcel," was won by Mrs S. Canny, Mrs A. Croy being second, and Mrs Candy third. Mr Lawrence acted as judge. Miss Mildred Brooks played a pianoforte solo. LADBROOKS Twenty members were present at the February meeting of the Ladbrooks Women's Institute. Mrs Meyer presided. An interesting demonstration of spinning from raw wool was given by Mrs E J. Chennells (Christchurch), and a travel talk by Miss W. Anderson (Christchurch) was also much appreciated. A competition for the best photographic study of a child, judged by Mrs Chennells and Miss Anderson, was won by Miss Betty McLaughlin 1, and Mrs R. J. Ware 2. A letter of thanks was received from Nurse Maude acknowledging a Christmas gift of toys and goods. It was decided to form a birthday party committee at the annual meeting in March, when officers for the year will be elected. A vote of thanks was passed to Mrs L. Smart, who acted as president during Mrs Meyer's absence. It was decided that the institute should be represented at the drama festival to be held at Prebbleton. Hostesses were Mesdames Meyer (2) and Miss V. Meyer.

WEST COAST FEDERATION At a meeting of the West Coast Federation Executive of Women's Institutes, Mrs G. Black presided over a good attendance. A progress report on the establishing of a dental clinic at Ruru was forwarded to the Health Department. Resolutions for the Dominion conference were discussed. Arrangements were made for the visit of the Dominion secretary, Mrs Kelso. The annual meeting of the council will be held on April 12. THE PEAKS A pleasant afternoon was spent at the hall, when Mrs White presided over the monthly meeting of The Peaks Women's Institute. Because of harvesting, the January meeting was cancelled and the competitions carried forward to the February meeting. A competition for the best jar of preserved apricots resulted as follows: —Mrs W. N. Hewett 1, Mrs C. McKeegan 2 and 3. Mrs McKeegan also won the competition for the best plate of fancy cakes. Much amusement was caused by a nail-driving competition, which resulted: Mrs Cowie and Mrs Kennedy equal 1, Mrs H. Gray 2, and Miss M. Kennedy 3. A competition was also held for a Victorian posy, in which Mrs A. Cowie's entries took first and second place, and Miss M. Hewett tnird. The hostess was Mrs W. N. Hewett.

CAVE The attendance at the Cave Women's Institute this month was not large. Miss Amyes presided and welcomed all members and visitors. Correspondence was read and members were asked to give produce for the Red Cross street day in Timaru. Nominations for the committee for the ensuing year were received. A very interesting and helpful .talk on the dinner table competition to be held at the Fairlie show was given by Mrs McLeod, and a hearty vote of thanks was passed to her. The hostesses served a much appreciated afternoon tea after which an amusing candle lighting competition was held and was won by Mrs Seymour. The competitions resulted as follows:—Raspberry jam: Miss Amyes 1, Mrs Cameron 2, Miss Wisely 3 Plums: Mrs Cameron 3, Miss Wisely 2, Mrs Hart 3. Bowl of annuals: Mrs Malthus 1 and 2, Mrs Moses 3. Gladioli: Mrs Hart 1, Mrs W. Little 2, Mrs Malthus'3. COMING-OF-AGE PARTY Friends of Miss Dorothy Liebcrt celebrated her twenty-first birthday anniversary with an enjoyable social held at the Frascati. Dancing and games were enjoyed, and musical items were given by Misses Alison Allsop and Mollie Hathdrley, and Mr W. B. Lambert. Amongst those present were Miss Dorothy Liebert, Mr and Mrs C. Shaw, Mr and Mrs W. Newman, Mr and Mrs W. Lambert, Mr and Mrs M. J. Boyer, Mr and Mrs W. T. Beanland, Mr and Mrs A. W. Beanland, Mr and Mrs H. G. Liebert, Mr and Mrs A. Nettleton, Mr and Mrs T. Smith. Mr and Mrs C. Read. Mr and Mr,-; J. Day, Mr and Mrs J. J. Archer, Mesdames J. Beanland, Novello Andrews, E. Nettleton, L. C. Fenn, E. L. Lucas, A. Richards, A. Smith, P. G. Martin, Misses R. Nettleton, C. Halifax, P. Newman, Enid Newman, A. Allsop, D. M. Berry, Jean Read, Bernice Smith, M. Templeton, Joan Templeton, Hilda Andrews, A. Garth, Mavis Larcombe, N. Frater, Ida Hellewell, Edna Richard, Gwen Griffiths (Auckland), Mollie and Betty Hatherley, N. Holden, T, Boyer, N. Boyer, M. Boyer, R. Duluen, E. Trethowen, Messrs D'Arcy Broughton, John Owen, G. A. Mcßae, S. Pritchard, K. Dickey, W. R. Stewart, P. Liebert, R. Liebert, T. Archer, E. H. Nixon, H. Nettleton, H. A. Thomas, G. Mollison, K. W. Staples. B. Templeton, E. Law, C. McKenzie, S. Brierly, L. Shaw, R. Moon, K. Newman, R. Nettleton, D. Day, and J. Richards.