OTAHUHU.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XIII, Issue 4668, 30 October 1876, Page 3

OTAHUHU.

The Otahuhu Band of Hope commenced operations in August last For some time j previous two or three abstinence advocates j -had-talkedover-the question—what could be done to further the views of entire abstinence from alcoholio liquors. It was suggested to • form a Band of Hope to effect this, and, to' learn Mlu otx»to af fooling th*. mnvn. ment, a public meeting was called, at which a good number of persons attended, the majority of whom were moderation men. The two or three advocates had to contend against this medium means of doing nothing, and, as a matter of course, nothing was the result. The minority, feeling they had the cause of humanity at heart, met again, and decided to attempt the formation. Sub-scriptions-were obtained from a few friends to defray the preliminary expenses, a night was fixed, the children came, in small numbers at first. As an inducement, a Tonic Sol Fa class was organised, and the necessary apparatus procured. Constant attention being paid to the children thus brought together,', the numbers soon increased, —night after night the forces being recruited with additional members, and are doing bo still. To see the happy faces enjoying themselves in glees and choruses, and in giving dialogues, recitations, Aα, would open the heart of the inoat sceptical, and none but those determined to stand to their wretched idol of self indulgence would stand aloof. The adult Society of Abstainers, seeing the good being effected, proposed to merge both into one ; this has been done, and found of great benefit. Free admission to all classes to come in and hear the children, whilst on nights ot meeting, open doors for any one readings, dialogues, &c., are given. The resnlfc is.a crowded; hall every. meeting. Again, to test the matter, a soiree and. entertainment was determined on, to consist pi tea, vocal music by the children and adult vocalists, speeches and addresses from known advocates. October 24 saw this gathering, when some 300 to 400 persons assembled ; the juveniles gave their chorueee aud glees to the manifest astonishment of every one, the efficient training and precision in time being very remarkable. Many kind friends from Auckland volunteered their assistance..;. The ,principles on , which the society was formed were anoounced, and the result was an overwhelming testimony that the work commenced had met with public approval. The police report less drinkiog goinJ on, while the grog-sellers confess a diminution of business. The assembly of Tuesday amply testified the labours of the promoters had not been in vain. But a word to the managers. Whilst receiving so many congratulations, let them not fall back into lukewarmnesß. Pres3 onward.—[Correspondent.] '■' -'