GIFTS FOR THE TROOPS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 16204, 14 April 1916, Page 6

GIFTS FOR THE TROOPS.

BACKING ARRANGEMENTS.

MAYOR AND COUNCIL ASSIST. i

A most interesting diversion was afforded during the packing of the second consignment of soldiers' gifts at tho Town Hall yesterday by an impromptu visit from the Mayor, Mr. J. H. Gunson, members of the City Council and Harbour Board, 'and the executive of the War Relief Association. The work of packing was in full swing when the visitor appeared, and the Mayoress, Mrs. Gunson, in a happy speech, expressed her appreciation of such an excellent opportunity for letting the men see the Women's Patriotic League actually at work. "We want the business men of Auckland to see for themselves just what we are doing for our boys at the front,-" she said. "Without seeing for themselves, they could not realise the scope of the work we have undertaken in regard to the Dominion gift scheme, and it is well that thoy should know." They certainly could not have chosen a better time for such a demonstration. Over 100 women were busy at tables piled with all manner of good things to eat and to wear, and though thero was much activity there was no confusion whatever. In concluding her speech, Mrs. Gunson invited the visitors each to pack a parcel, and in a few momenta the Mayor and a score of Auckland's leading citizens were to be seen carefully selecting condensed milk and fish paste and sweets from the boxes, wrapping them in socks and towels, and tying them up with more or less scientific knots, in capacious khaki handkerchiefs. Signed gift cards were included in these parcels, so that some months I hence New Zealand boys in some far, unknown land will have the novel experience of finding themselves the favoured recipients of a bundle of good things sent personally by the Mayor or by one of the leading citizens of Auckland. The Women's Patriotic League now has the matter of the Dominion gift scheme thoroughly in hand, and yesterday's packing was a triumph of organisation. A band of workers had placed all the gifts in readiness on the tables the day before and wßen the packers made their appearance at ten o'clock they went straight ahead with the work, with such dexterity that the whole consignment was ready, in 100 large boxes, by mid-day. The cooperation of all the country centres is an essential factor in the continued success of the gift scheme. The secretary, Miss Spedding, reports that money has come in well from the country districts, and it is hoped that later on this support will enable the work to go on without entrenchment on the main fund. As soon as time permits another tour of the country districts will be made by the Mayoress and Miss Spedding, with a view to obtaining the co-operation and support of every branch league.