GIFTS FOR PRISONERS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18901, 26 December 1924, Page 8

GIFTS FOR PRISONERS.

CHRISTMAS AT TH'E GAOL.

DAY OF RELAXATION.

MANY LUXURIES PROVIDED.

The kindly spirit of Christmas-tide found full play yesterday in the Auckland prison at Mount Eden. The day vas observed as a holiday for tho prisoners, apart from the necessary routine work. For the Roman Catholic inmates Mass was celebrated by lather Shaw, and the Rev. E. C. Budd officiated at the Holy Communion Church of England service. Tho Rev. A. P. Cowie also conducted a Church of England service. Dinner comprised roast beef, vegetables, and a substantial helping of good plum pudding. From various organisations additional luxuries were supplied. Biscuits and sweets were sent by the Salvation Amy, while the Fellowship of Reconciliation supplied a bunch of flowers for each prisoner Fruit was uonated by the Star of the East organisation, and from tho Rotary Club came a packet of cigarettes for each man. The Chinese residents, through the Rev. W. Mawson, the Chinese missioner, gave fruit and other delicacies, and from a society in Britain interested in the welfare of prisoners there came for each inmate a Christmas letter, Liberty to smoke was given, and a general air "of orderly relaxation prevailed. Practically all the inmates attended one or other of the services, and during the Cest of the day they were allowed to enjoy their present of tobacco in the open air. The number of male prisoners in the gaol yesterday was 368, the women totalling 12. For the latter numerous privileges were accorded, and in the afternoon they v.ere entertained to tea by Adjutant Go-don, of the Salvation Army. At this lit lie treat all prison crockery was set aside, and in lieu thereof danty cups and sarcers, plates and glassware, with white table cloths were introduced. For the time being prison fare was forgotten m tho joy of Christmas-tide. A treat on the men's side of the prison was supplied by Staff Captain Davis, but, of course, 'not in so elaborate a style as that provided for the women.