THE CASTLE PLEDGE.

Hawera Star, Volume XLIX, 31 August 1929, Page 18

THE CASTLE PLEDGE.

I promise to smile every time I can, and to chase all the frowns into the dark cave, where the Smile Giant -will kill them with his Magic Sword Happiness. My Dear Smiles, — I feel a very neglected person this week. Most of my Smiles have been too busy enjoying- their holidays and attending the Competitions to find time to write. Next week, now that the Competitions are over, I hope you will find time to write and tell me how you are spending your holidays. What a strenuous week it has been to be sure. Competitions morning, noon and night! I was not, of course, present at all the sessions, but those I did attend pleasantly surprised me by the quality of the work of the children. It was particularly pleasing to see competitors from, the country bravely facing the big audience and giving of their best—and a very good best too in many cases. On one of my visits to the Opera House I penetrated to those regions at the back of the stage, and these I saw a number of girls and boys waiting to take part in the folk dance. Their costumes and the costumes of other children I saw later during the Competitions made me realise how much work had been done by the mothers in preparation for the Competitions and how anxiously those mothers must be awaiting the judge’s verdict. I hope the boys and girls of to-day do remember that though they have much freedom and fun, parents still have to sacrifice time and energy, and sometimes money, in order that the young folks of to-day may enjoy themselves. It is a thought worth bearing in mind, Smiles, next time you have reason to say, “I’ve,.liad a good time to-day.” Heaps of love to you all, — Your affectionate SMILE QUEEN.