CHRISTMAS IN THE TRENCHES

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 3137, 16 July 1917, Page 4

CHRISTMAS IN THE TRENCHES

The Mayoress (Mrs. J. P. Luke) and her band of helpers associated with tho Countess of Liverpool Fund have, been especially busy for some time past in gathering funds and gifts of various kinds for our soldiers in the fighting lines. They aro particularly desirous that nt the coming Christmas time our soldiers shall bo made to feel that tho people of New Zealand have had them in mind, and that tho men shall be cheered and comforted by the receipt of parcels and gifts, which will bo welcomed not merely for the sake- of old associations, but also for their usefulness and their worth. In order to ensure delivery at tho right time tho work of organisation has been taken in hand early, and already there has been a good response from various bodies and organisations, as well as from individuals, in the shape of funds I and gifts of various kinds. Themoney is used in tho purchase of suitable gifts and comforts, including, of course, tho Christmas plum puddings, which aro specially made and packed to keep and travel in good order even to the very front trenches. This year, owing to tho shortage of certain classes of foodstuffs in tho Motherland, theso gifts, particularly plum puddings and fancy articles of food, should bo more welcome than ever to tho men in the fighting lines. We raako reference to the matter now because in a few days' time Mrs. Luke will proceed on a tour of the country districts in support of this effort, and wo trust that she- will meet with tho success the- merits of tho undertaking warrant. All kinds of societies and organisations can assist; schools, groups of town or country residents—indeed, everyone oan do somebhing if tho spirit prompts them. To the men in tho fighting lines tho parcels of gifts from their own land are a neverfailing source of joy. Thoy cheer i and encourage them as nothing else could do, and at Christmas time, when the men's thoughts naturally turn to their homes and people in New Zealand, thc-so evidences of kindly remembrance arc welcomed by thorn with a grateful appreciation that warm the hearts of those who have sent tho gifts. _______