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Otago Daily Times, Issue 16003, 20 February 1914, Page 4

THE STEAD MEMORIAL. A letter from Lady Stout which appears in our columns this morning' contains an appeal to the women of New' Zealand which, may be cordially commended to their attention. Lady Stout invites subscriptions towards what is known as the Stead Memorial Fund, a name expressive of a movement which is being actively promoted in the Old Country by an influential committee to perpefcnate in a very practical and suitable manner the memory of a man whoea life was largely devoted to the furtherance of plans for the >protection of women. It is proposed, and the scheme has already made substantial progress, to establish in London and elsewhere where nidst needed and in accordance with funds available a number ofproperly supervised hostels for women and girls. The idea that deeply interested Mr Stead, and the spirit in which the Stead Hostels, as they will be styled, will be instituted,' will thoroughly harmonise ,with the belief that the best memorial to a man is one that carries out the spirit of his life. The promoters of the move* ment are desirous of raising such a fund as, supplied in grants or on loan, will enable every Jarge town in the Old Country as well as many in other countries — since Mr Stead's work was international in character and the need to be met is international also—to have at least one such hostel. This may appear rather ambitious, and it may possibly happen that some modification of this design may be necessary, but tho successful launching of the scheme is the present matter of concern and interest. It is anticipated that tho first.. Stead Hostel, which will be situated in Westminster," will be started very shortly, and emphasis is placed upon the fact that it will be open to women of all nationalities. Women of many lands, wd are told, and members of many professions and societies, have sent in contributions, but more is yet required if this hostel is to be entitled to description as an international memorial. TheTe are thousands upon thousands of women workers in the Old Country to whom such institutions as the Stead Hostels, in supplying shelter and comfort, will undoubtedly prove a boon of almost inestimable value. It is desired that the London memorial, on behalf of which appeal is now being particularly made, shall be a truly great and representative; one, and such a project will command, it can scarcely be doubted, sympathetic interest throughout the Empire. In her letted Lady Stout has, drawn attention to the inauguration of a Women's Shilling Fund in connection with the Stead Memorial, and the invitation to the women of New Zealand to lend support thereto is reasonable and appropriate.