LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLK.

Otago Witness, Issue 2403, 22 March 1900, Page 61

LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLK.

Dear Dot, — This is about the sixth time I have started to write to you, but I am determined to post this letter. 1 do not know many of your correspondents, but have found out who 8.0.8. is, and where he lives. A cousin of mine lives in Gore, and I am going to try and find out who Wullie, Wellwisher, and Jessie C. are. I was speaking to a girl the other day, •and she told me she had started to write you a letter for about the twentieth time. lam a great reader, and have read " St. Elmo," " 'Ihe Little Larrikin,"^ and many others too numerous to number. I was in Dunedin la3t Friday, and saw a girl coming out of a "butcher's shop with a badge in her hat. 1 did not speak to her, as I did not have mine. I wonder who it would be? — perhaps she was _on!y a reader of the little folk's page — I shall have to say pages, a3 there is more than one page now. Taffy was saying he thought that a capital plan about the Little Folk's Cot — so do I, Dot, and I hope it will succeed. With love to the little folk, the editor, and yourself, — Yours truly,

QUEEN OF THE FOREST

Waikouaiti, February 24.

[Your girl friend has been having plenty of practice, Queen, but I suppose she never got very far past " Dear Dot, ' and of course that v. ould not do very much good, would it? — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — This is the glorious season of the year, when you wear a great coat one day, a thin coat the second, a porous plaster the third, and a doctor's bill the fourth. Dear Dot, the editor must put on such a look when he sees so many little folk's letters. Now, editor, do not scold Dot for the letters. Just scold the little folk, and you will come better off. Dear Ziska, would you like the present of a hen's feather? Now, do not be offended, for I just said that in fun. Dear Dot, have you a bicycle. 1 wish I had one. I shall end my letter with a short story, Dot. "Hullo!" said a chestnut to a robin, "What are you?" '" I am a little bird, ' said the robin. " What are you?" "I am a little burred, too," said the chestnut, — Yours truly,

DAFFODIL,

["Ha! Ha! Ha!" screamed the onlooker, and then bur'ed his face in his hands, so he became a little bird too, and thus there were three of them. Now, Daffodil, see what punning will do. I wonder what the editor will do when he reads that awful little story, and its more dreadful sequel.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I felt a little disappointed when I saw you had decided we were not to assist the Fourth. Contingent. Was it not strange that so many of us thought of the same thing at the same time? and I suppose we are all strangers too. At least I have not been fortunate enough to find out many of yotir correspondents, but after reading Alys's letter £ feoi as if I should like to know her. I should like very much to correspond with her. Would yon, Alys? Ido enjoy my letters from Marguerite, and although I have not much time for -writing, it is very pleasant in the country to get letters and answer them. I think it would also be very dull now if it were not for Dot's page and letters Dear Dot, I saw in the paper that before the volunteers left London they were presented with the Freedom of the City. Now, as I do not know what that means, would any of the little folk (or yourself) be kind enough to tell me. I see Wullie has written again, but where has Lamb got to ? She surely does not know how we miss her. I wonder if she is enjoying herself too much, or is she studying so hard that she has not time to think of Dot. Poor 8.0.8., you chances of getting to the war seem very tew; but never mind, practice shooting and riding, .then perhaps you may be the Major Eobin of the next war. It seems likely this war will soon be over — at least we are all wishing so. Everyone ifefcs &0 excited watching for the Daily Times to have the latest news. My little brother says it is strange that ladies are always first where there is anything good, but not at the war. T see we shall all have to save up and mako the cot scheme a success — it is probably the best. With love to 8.0.8., Harry, the dear editor, and your own dear self, — Yours truly,

OLD GIRL,

March 2,

[I am so sorry you were so much cusappointed, dear, but it is good of you to enter into the cot scheme co enthusiastically, and i am sure we shall all be proud of our effort by-and-bye. Presenting the Freedom of the City of London is nowadays merely an honorary ceremony, but it was at one time fraught with great meaning. In the olden times it carried with it many privileges, such as being able to vote and have the name inserted in the burgess roll, gave the holder a social position which he wou'd not otherwise have, and was altogether a coveted distinction. The method of voting has since been liberalised, and many of the other privileges which it carried with it have fallen into disuse, so that now the distinction, though held in high e3teem, does not carry any material advantages. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I was delighted to see a letter from Wullie, and it was a very nice one. The scolding which his mother gave hira would not have much effect, as he is so far away from her. I think the badge looks very pretty when it is sewn on the hat. I hay only seen one other besides my own in this district, and I know the friend who wears it. Dear Dot, is not tins war a terrible thing? lam glad to say that the Boers are now getting the worst of it, however.' To change the subject foi a more piea-sa-ut one, I say that the cure for, love given by Eoy would bo rather a hard one to mix together. I will close now with a couple of riddles: — (1) How' many sticks go to make a crow's ncjt ? (2) As round as a tub, as hollow as a drum, cock up his tail and away he will run. "With love to Dot and all the little folk, —Yours truly,

THE SKIPPIE.

March 2. [1 wonder if Boy tried the mixing himself. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I do not think you have anyone writing from here, so I thought I woiild send you a few lines. I have seen the little folk's photos in the Christmas Annual, and I think Jessie C. looked the best. Wullie's letters are very amusing. Isn't it funny, Dot, that none of the little folk can find out who you are, thoiigh 8.0.8. .thinks he did. I like his letters very much indeed. Isn't this war terrible, Dot? I hope it will soon stop, and that the British will win. With love to all little folk, jiot forgsiting Dot, — Yours truly, ERNESTINE (aged 13 years).

Februaiy 21.

[Do you know, Ernestine, I can never understand why anyone should say they " hope .British will win." Why, of course they will,

no matter at what cost. Surely no one really ever thought that the British had a chance of not being victors in the end? The British have never really been beaten yet, and I don't believe they ever will. Of comso they meet with reverses now and again, but that only nialces our brave countrymen all the moro determined.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, — It has been veiy warm all day, but now it is" nice and cool. lam writing this outside, ar.d want to finish it before Ihe mosquitoes come about, for you don't get much peace when they come. They are very annoying, buzzing around one, and they can give a very nasty bite. Of course they don't take the piece with them. Well, I think I havo said enough about mosquitoes,, or people will think I live in quite a dangerous pait of the world. Dear Dot, I live in a pretty little valley, surrounded b} r beautifully curved hills, covered with bush, and a river flowing roxir.d it (the vallej') in the shape of a horse sjioe. A little while ago the nnsllctoe was in bloom, and the bush looked very gay with these big patches of scarlet flowers mixed through it. The river is very nice for boating, but one must have good eyesight to keep off the many snags that are in it, for it isn't very pleasant io be launched on top of one for an hour or two. I wonder how much longer this war is going to last. It is very sad about the Victorians, if it is true what is in the papers about them. Dear Dot, it is a pity that the letters have lo be shortened, for some of them are ao interesting; but of course it can't be helped. I wonder why Lamb has not written lately? I hope she is not ill. I have taken my norn de plume partly from the interpretation of the Maori name of my district. Well, I think I had better stop now, for I do not want to break the rules the first time I write to you ; so goodbye for a while, hoping that I may write again, with love to all the little folk and your own dear self. — Yours truly, ,

RIBBONWOOD.

February 26,

[Ribboiiwood is certainly welcome to a place in our pp.ges. and I only regret that her letter has had to wait for a place. However, lam acting as fairly as I can in this respect, for I keep the letters in the order in which they come in, so that all which are worthy of being printed will in the end find a place.— DOT.]

Beat Dot, — I am going to tell you about the place where I live, near the Waiaa River. It is also near the Limestone Gorge and the Waiau Caves. I have been in the caves a few times, ai>d thought them very pretty. In some places they aio very high, and the roof and walJs are covered with hard white material, long stalactites hanging from the roof and walls. There is a large well aflec you get in a long way, which cannot always be crossed. Most people carve their names in the cave. It is not easy to get into them in wet weather, because they have so much water in them. The caves are not ao pretty now as they were at first. When you are near the well you can hear a stream flowing over stones above your head. There are a great many caves branching off from the main cave. Lights have to be used in the caves. With love to all, — Yours truly,

D. A. D.

[You are indeed fortunate to have been through the caves on different occasions, D. A. D. It is a pity they cannot be photographed, especially if they are not improving, I suppose through people breaking the stalactites off.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — For long I have thought your page wanted but one thing to make it good — make it complete. You have a Scotchman writing, an Irishman, and Englishman, and now the French mademoiselle. You need the writer from the Fatherland, and will you let me take that honoxired position — I, the little Fraulein ?> Does the dear Dot think well of the Germans? So many do not. Do I not know well that your English little people will smile large at mine letter, ar.d say of the complacency of German conceit? It always is so; but the Dot knows it is one great mistake. It is just and lawful pride. Now, think, then. Who have the wonderful great schools? It is the Germans. Who are the great scientists? Again, it is the Germans. And last, who are the greatest musicians? But it will not be disputed, as it is the Germans. Our Kaiser — think of him! Ach, he is a goot man. But I have spoke enough of the Fatherland to convince all the sceptical ones. The English little people will tire even of it. Ach! my dear Dot, your English is a ratty language. lam not at home (1 use an English expression) in it. But lam proceeding. I now make scarce any mistakes. Say to me, is not mine English very well, excellent? I love the dear Dot. If I had not detected she was English, I would swear she was. German. But the English are goot. They are after Germans. Ido not mean they are going to catch the Germans. But they speak evil of the great Kaiser. That should not be. ~ But the English disbelieve naturally. They will doubt the poor little Fraulein who has fey, friends in this strange country. My parent does not know I am writing 110 the Dot. I will not write more letters till I perceive the manner in which, mine first is received. I have much nuisance with believe, receive, and perceive, ar.d also with the- capital letters. But Dot will pardon any blunders I make, as sonio words I wrote as the sound was to mine eara. — Yours truly,

FRAULEIN.

[I am sure our little "German Fraulein will receive a hearty welcome to Dot's Page. She already writes capital English, with just the little spice of foreign idiom which tends to make it charming. Wo can very well afioid to let her do her little ciov; over Germany and the Germans' many virtues. I really do not think the English now "speak evil of the great Kaiser." While we all laugh now and again at his little foibles, we admit that he\s a farseeing and wise-governing Emperor, " and 1 think England is very pleased to have a greater measure of 'his friendship than was at one time thought possible.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — It is very Rot to-d.ay, and most of the people are burning their bush. There are clouds of smoke everywhere. I think the Critic Club is a good idea, as it teaches the corresi^ondents to/ be careful how they write. This is not a nice place to live m in winter, but it is not half bad' in summer. It is nice to go down to the beach on a hot day and watch the restless water, While the great waves,, Like molten glass, Come leaping to the shore.

The Catlins roads are very muddy in winter. Some years ago a man came to try to get some land, and when his horse got bogged he was in too big a hurry, so he left it and sent a "bullock-puncher" with his team to\Dull it out of the mud. Another man got his horse bogged, and the horse's foot must have got caught in a root because it pulled its hoof off before ho got it out. There is another of my schoolmates going to write to you, Dot, this week. I know by sight one of tho men who is going to the- Transvaal with the Fourth Contingent. I think the war will be over in a few weeks now, don't you, Dot, through Cronje' s force having surrendered, and a large number being taken prisoners. There can' u 5 be many Boers left now, as Cronje had most of them fighting with him. With lovo to Sancho, Mr Editor, and yourself, — Yours tiuly,

LOCKSLEY.

March 2

[Now, Lockslej-, I am afraid that little jam about the proßjseotive usttler and his bp/jged

hors6 is a little bit cverdv.iwa. Ido hope tho war will be over ccci, but I sm orroH there will have lo be a prolonged siego of Pielorra first, and if so the laige number of prisotiofb in that city will probably havo a pretty hard time of it. I hope the Boers will be so badly beatm before they get to Pretoria that they will not ba able to mu--tcr very strongly in that city, however.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I must open my fourth letter to yoxt with many tlnmks for printing them so punctually, especially as you are so hard pressed with epistles from the little folk. Perhaps we should thank the editor for all his trouble too, though I don't think he has as much vexation as you. The Boers must be pietty well sick of the war by now, especially after Cronje' s defeat. Lord Roberts seems lo be the right man in the right place ; besides, the soldiers evidently have a great deal of faith in him, — a very important thing in war. There was a great demonstration down here when the news of the relief of Ladysmith and Cronje' s defeat became known. Flags were run up eveiy where; if theie were no flag poles to hang them on they were hung out of shop windows. This was followed by the ringing of pll the church and fire bells, the blowing o£ whistles, ar.d the chiming ol the Post office clock. At 2 o'clock the Garrison Band turned out, ascended the band rotunda, and commenced proceedings by playing ''God save tho Queen." This was followed by speeches by Ihe mayor and prominent citizens, and more patriotic airs by the band. This meeting was ended by cheers for all the British generals fighting in South Africa, Major Robin, the mayor, the Fourth Contingent, and very hearty groans for President Kruger. About six hundred people assembled in an hour, and this proves that the people of Southland are just as> loyal as their neighbours the Otagonians. I have just received news that I have passed my music (theory) examination. The news was specially welcome, because I had gra\e doubts as to the result of the examination. But, however, ' all's well that ends well." I wonder if many of your boy writers take in the magazine called the Captain ? It was started at the beginning of last year, and is an English magazine. I have about eight numbers of it now, and I strongly advise all boys to take it in. One of your writers was passing remarks about Jam and Jelly's letter. Now, I think that is unfair, because they wrote and apologised for their misconduct. Dot invited them to write again, co I don't think that they should be discouraged to write in any way. I'm quite suie that Dot will agree with me heie. What a laige number of letters you are getting, Dot; con'dn't you persuade the editor to have a supplement called "Dot's Supplement" inserted in the Witness? You could tell him that it would be a fitting commemoiation of the success of the British m Soitth Africa.

The editor won't know who 1 am, but about seven years ago he showed me all over the printing office, and gave me a big bundle of blank pape/ which I took a great fancy to. I remember I liked the winding steps very much. I should very much like to see the Scouts go away, but there is very little chance of us getting a holiday, though I think it is well worth one. Have any of your little folk taken up the hobby of conjuring? I have done so, and with great success. If any of you do take up this hobby,, wi!l you just write saying so, and I shall be only too pleased to tell you a few tricks and give you some hints. The bird Tui found was, I think, a kingfisher. At any rate the description she gave corresponds with tha'- ol a kingfisher. I hope you will have fine weather when you visit Southland, Emeiald. I was glad you took my part re the Boer tactics. I was afraid you might scold me, Dot, for talking o.i a subject of which I knew very little. I must conclude now with good wishes to yourself and all your correspondents. Yours truly,

DOM DUM

[Yes, Dum Dura, I heartily endorse your remarks about Jam and Jelly. They acted in a very proper manner in. writing in the chaiming way they did in their second letter, and should be heartily welcomed to our pages. I am only too pleased, Dum Dum, for any of my little friends to express an opinion on the current topics of the day. It shows that you have an inquiring mind, and are capable of thinking for yourselves. Even should I think you are. taking a wrong view of the matter dealt with, and think it necessary to sny so, do not be discovtraged, but try to look at the matter impartially, and find out whether you really hove made a mistake or not. Try to write a much shorter letter next time, dear. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I see there is a correspondent, Pom Pom, writing from here, and I am trying to find cut who it is. Wuliie ■writes very interesting letters, especially to those who are fond of Scotch. I love the dear old Scotch ao.igs better than any others, although I am not Scotch myself. There is quite a craze here just now among the boys for playing soldiers, and it is .very amusing to see them— some on horses, shanks's pony, etc., with tail hats and long trousers. The fire bell was rung her? the other afternoon, and there was great excitement when we heard that Ladysmith had been relieved. There was to have been a great procession m the evening, but the report piovcd to be untrue, and we had to wait for a while longer. A holiday was declared today in honour of the British victories in South Africa. Cronje is safe within Lord Roberls's camp now, and I hope he will like it. I hope this dreadful war will soon be ended, and that there will not be many more brave men slaxightered. I think I know Kitty Clover personally. You lived in Westport for a time, did you not, X? The girl I knew came from Kent, England, so 1 think it is the same. Tell me in your next letter if you know who I am, Kitty. I have a great number of lessons to learn — viz., Latin, French, Euclid, Algebra, history, grammar, and geography — every night, so I have not much time for writing. On Satiu-day we drove out to Rochfort terrace, aid spent a most enjoyable day. On the way out an old lady told us thcie was an eccentric man out there, and, lo and behold! when we wer3 lighting the fire an old man came along with an axe in his hand, and I must say I felt rather uneasy when he stopped to speak to us. However, after he had been talking- for short time, we found out he was a very nice old man (not the mad one), and we were very glad, I can tell you, as it was rather a lonely place, only four or five people living there. I shall now say good-bye, dear Dot, hoping this letter is not too long, with love to Dot, Shan, Kitty, Clover, and Echo. — Yours tiuly, WILLIAM TELL.

[That was quite an adventure, William Tell ; but what had become of your bow and arrow? Surc'y you would not have felt uneasy if it had been slung over your shoulder. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — For a wonder I have no letters to write. I can't believe it. I generally have at least three to answer. I did not get a single letter all this week. Wullie has a long letter in this week. I see several writers saying they saw girls and boys with Dot's badge on, but they don't say they spoke. I thought that was one of the reasons why we got the badge, and if I happen to see an3"one with the badge on, and they don't speak or smile, I shall be angry. Yes, Mona, I will forgive you, and I hope you will do the same by me. Wasn't it kind of Alys to offer to give her 10s towards buying a horse? But I think it was too late. I think ib is a prrr.nd idea about the lilllo folk's cot. Svivoiy evcrjore will be able to £,ive Id a. Month — a shilliiiiy a year — to it, If there- are more than two writing from ono house, they could put by gd a month — thr.t would not be awjl^ but it would help A wouldn't

it, Dot? I have to icou tba calves, r.c gf»rctbya, v.vh Icvo to Dian.ond, Koa, lima, ar.d ltoxbnighits. — YotU'j truly,

MARGUERITE.

[Yes, dear, I shall be quite content with the smallest amount possible, for every mite helps, and no one need hesitate to send even a penny stamp after we have made a start.— DOT.]

* Dear Dot, — I am living in Invercargill just now, but my home is not here. Where it is I think I had better not tell you, for by that I might betray myself to some of your little folk who know me very well, and have done so for years. I attend the Invercargill High School, and 1 see that there you have some friends, for 1 have seen two or three badges worn by schoolmates. I think I know the girl to whom Thelma alludes when she writes of a girl who jumbled up her words when she went to fetch some milk. But, Thelma, you should not laugh at that unlucky person, lor 1 have known you to do such things and rather worse too. Dear Dot, did you. ever learn Latin? If you have not, you may count yourself favoured. I am just beginning to learn it, and it is simply awful. Did you have any rejoicings on the occasion of the relief of Ladysrnith in Dunedin, Dot? In Invercargill we had a splendid time. The girls in the High School drew up a petition asking for a holiday because of the relief of Ladysrmth. Eveiy girl in the school signed it, and then it was presented to the rector. Of course the holiday was granted, and a capital afternoon was spent, at least by me. A few of my friends and I went up the water lower, and I can assure you, Dot, it will be a good while before Igo up again. I was terribly giddy when I reached the balcony, and when we staited to come down I was shaking. However, I got down safely, without any limbs being broken. Before leaving I wrote my signature in a good many places, so if ever you climb the tower,, you may see my name, and near it another name that you have heard of before. At half-past 1 all the bells Jbegan to ring, all tlie whi&tles to blow, and all me people to rush into the streets. Speeches v/eie delivered by some of the leading men, and "Soldiers of the Queen" was sung. Isn't this wai terrible? I would be very glad to hear that every Boer was taken prisoner and that Britain was once more supieme in Africa. Fancy such people as the Boers rising against the British, the greatest race on earth! Jt is impudence on their part, and very silly too, for they are sure to be beaten. 1 must now conclude with love to all D.L.F. — Yours truly,

EUTERPE. [And it is to be hoped very quickly too, Euterxoe, now thai the British have made a start in real earnest.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I see the letters are falling upon you as fast as ever. I think the voting brought a lot to the page. 1 think it a grand idea abou' the children's ward, and I for one will help all I can. When do we start? If each of us keeps giving a little now and again, it will not take such a long time before we reach the amount, will it ? It would have been nice had someone suggested about collecting funds for a horse to send to the Transvaal sooner, but as you said we should not have had time, and I think the children's ward will do nicely. It is indeed very good of you, Dot. Poor 8.0.8. is having a great time of teasing about being in love. 8.0.8. might be in love with Dotare you, B.O.B.? I hope Boy's recipe will cure you. \Tt seems a very good one. Fancy a fourth and even a fifth contingent going away! It is terrible to think of the poor fellows going away, perhaps never to return, and to be- shot down by those horrid Boers. 1 didn't know any of the former contingents, but I know several of the fourth, one of them having gone from here. I felt sorry to see him going away. We have now a Critic Club among us, and they Eeern to be doing a deal of good in the way of shortening the letters and preventing the writing of private talk in the page. I suppose they will be giving me a dressing down, but I can't help it, as there is nothing of any interest here to write about — it is &uch a quiet place. I have seen 3"ou, Roy, but only once, a long time ago, and I am sure you will have no idea who I am. Your initials are G. S., of the G., are they not? You and Dingo are old shall I tell, Roy? What a long time it is since we heard from Cooee. Has she sent in her resignation, Dot? It is really too bad of you, Cooee, if you have quietly slipped away and deserted the page without letting us> know. I have four years yet to continue writing to your page. That is a long time yet, isn't it? What a lot of L.F. like reading! I don't like reading books at all I have books here called "Little Fishers and Their Nets," "Dr Livingstone," "The Pictorial Tour of the World," " Hope v. Rest," and several others. Do you like reading, Dot? I don't suppose you get much time for that, but if any L.F. care to read them, i shall send them if they send their addresses to me. We are having perfect weather now, and the crops are beginning to ripen. Indeed I can see the stooks from our door in some of the neighbours paddocks. Yes, dear Blackbird, I've already written you the long letter you asked for, and am waiting your reply. I must conclude, with best love to Blackbird, Marguerite, Dunedimte, Roy, and Frank. — Yours truly,

CUCKOO

Later. — I have just seen Witness about the photos, and, dear Dot, I regret very much to inform you that I cannot send my photo for the Witness as asked for, as I have not got one to send, and the nearest photographer i= over 10 miles from here. When Ido get it taken (which will be soon, I hope) I shall send you one. — C.

[I a.m sory we shall not get your portrait just now. Cuckoo, but of course it will be welcome later on. The idea was that the collecting for the cot was not to start till the beginning of the year 1901, dear, but that everyone ,vho can do to should put away a penny a month this year so as to make a really good start at the beginning of the century. I think that has met with general acceptance, so we may look upon it as settled. lam sure Cooee has not left us for good, dear. I think she is away at present where she does not see the Witness, but we shall hear from her again, never fear. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I was at a picnic a few weeks ago, but I did not enjoy myself, as it was very cold. What amusing letters Taffy, secretary of Critic Club, writes. If Marjory is correct in the initials, then I know Bubbles and Mount Hoy. I have found out who you aie, Bluebell. Now, Marjory, are not yotir initials F. E. ? Do you think you know me, Bluebell? I tiied the cure you gave me for warts, and it cured them in a few days. Be quick, Lamb, and write, as I like your letleis very much. With lovo to all the little folk, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly,

PINKIE

[It was a pity you had a cold day for your picnic, dear ; otherwise you would no doubt have enjoyed your outing. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I thought "Wullie had deserted our page altogether, but he has turned up again. The Critic Club is a very good idea, don't you think, Dot? There is to be a circus here on Tuesday night. I can go if I like, but I don't think I shall. My brother is going. What a lot of people aie collecting for the patriotic fiinc l . Have we to put our name with our n<M)i e'e plum?, Dot? With best love, — Yoiiis tru'.y,

EVANGELIST. £Yes, Evajigelifrt, the name should always

Rccomi>?ny a Utter will" rt r.oii do plume. If and the t-.jt'.rcs:. may be wrii:-en on the back. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I went to Palmerston during th» holidays, and stayed there for nearly two weeks. We have a. grandfather, three aunts, and a lofe of cousins there. Ido not know any of your little folk, unless it be A Loaf— l think I know her. Does her surname begin with T.? Wo weie down at the lagoon to-niglit. We v>vre trying to catch crawfish, but they were too quick for xis. When we were coming home Laura and Arthur saw a very big niorepork. Artie said it was as big as Johnnies head. Our dog is barking so loud that he is stopping me from writing this letter. Dear Dot, dad says that you are not a woman at all, but one of the men of the office, but I don't believe him. There is a pretty little baby next door to us. She is my cousin. After I come home from school I go over and help grandmother to nurse her. She does not like staying inside, and cries if she can't go out. We went to Foxton for our school excursion. We had to get up very early, drive seven miles to the station, and then go by train. From Foxton we went seven miles down the river. We then got out of the boat and paddled in the sea and gathered shells. We paw a very big bone on the beach; it was the bone of a whale. Coming home Laura went to sleep in the train. — Yours truly, LIZZIE TAIT. Ballance, February 26.

[I should not be surprised some day to heak that not only are Dot and Emmeline big, active men who should be away fighting the Boers, but that the editor, after all that has been said of him, is a tender-hearted woman ! However, we all understand, and really don't mind what is said now— do we? Ihat must have been a very nice trip, and I expect most of you were nearly following Laura's example.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — An aided school has bsen started at the Beaconlights. and my sister, niece, and myself are going to it. We have about three miles to walk. The road is all right going, but coming back it is terrible, for we have to pull ourselves up with sxipplejacks. Dear Dot, my sister says you are the editor himself. Well, I think you are a very pretty young lady, with dark hair and pretty blue eyes. Deur Dot, lam taking a norn de plume, for the boys at school tease me about my letters. With love to Dot and the editor, — Yours tiuly,

HEIRESS.

February 26,

[So your sister has made a discovery, Heiress? Well, let us hope it has made her happy, but I do not think she need try to get you to believe such nonsense. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — You were quite right when you paid that as soon as the British got all their troops together they would beat the Boers. What rejoicing there would be at Home when the news reached them of the relief of both Kimberley and Ladysrn'th. If Pretoria were taken I think the Boers would neccl to give up all idea of beating the British; don't you, Dot? The colonials are getting great praise, I see. Ido hope thai there will be no more killed. I know three who are going with the fourth contingent, and I was hoping to get down to Dunedin to see it off, but I will not be able to do so, as the harvest has commenced. We had a patriotic concert up here not long ago, Dot, and we hrn.ll some very good performers — one especially I liked better than any of the rest. I wish you had been here for it, dear old Vilette. I have found out who Eoby is, Dot, and I think I know lona. The first time I meet Jessie C. I intend to speak to her. Since I started to write this letter I have seen the last "Witness, and find that G-. Y. M. has found me but, but I think I can trust her not to give me away. The "first time I come down your way, G. Y. M., we shall see which can go the faster, the bay or the grey hack. Oh, Dot, I was so disgusted to-night: my sister tad iust come back from* Gore, and a gentleman had presented her with some penny packets that he thought would smase her. Well, she had too many, so she asked me if I would have one. Of course I said yes, and, on opening it, to my disgust I found a gentleman's moustache. It is a terrible-looking thing, and I think it is the last time that I shall open a packet before all the rest of our family, for oh, Dot, how they did laugh a,t me. With, love to dear old Vilette, G. Y. M., Jessie C, Skipper, and Ziska, not forgetting yourself, Dot",— Yours truly,

VEVETTE,

Dear Dot, — I am now living irt the Auckland Province. I enjoy reading the little folk's letters, and we always welcome the Witness. My brother and I go four miles eyery Saturday for the mail — that shows we are fond of our Witness, doesn't it, Dot? It is a good while since Christmas, but as I have not written to you for a long time, I thought I'd ask how you enjoyed yourself then. As for myself, I did nothing but eat. When do you think wo shall see the end of the war in the Transvaal? I only wish they would take me, but 1 will have to wait a- few years yet before I am old enough, and I suppose the war will be over by that time. That was a very interesting letter from Flora Sinclair, of Centre Island Lighthouse; was it not? I hope she will write again soon. lam in the Sixth Standard at school, and wo will be examined in September. When it is fine my brothers and Igo fishing or swimming after school. We generally tnke our little rat terrier Jess with us. She catches penguins for us among the rocks. We pluck them and use them for bait. With love to all the little folk, not forgetting vourself,— Youis tiuly, KAURI GUM.

Auckland, March 2.

[That is a handy way of getting bait, K. G.> but you do not tell us what kind of fish you catch. You certainly must look forward to the Witness when you go all that distance for it, and even then I suppose it is over a week old.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — 1 shall gladly practise a little self-denial and contribute towards the cot. Will it not be grand, little folk, to think we have helped to "maintain a hospital? Yes, Dot, I have noticed that 8.0.8. is in love, but I differ with you as to the time he first came under the spell. I think the change was first noticeable in a letter describing a visit to the Witness Office. Fai be it from me to inFinuate that Dot cast the spell, for it may have been Emmelinc, or perhaps the editor. Now, Dot, I have always said that boys wrote more interesting letters than girls, and there is another sensible girl, Ragamuffin, to take my part. Ah, well, I suppose man's superiority will assert itself. My big brother ■was lecturing me the other day on the respective qualities of -Tian and woman, and concluded with, "Now, it's no use your talking; men are the lords of creation, and women are inferior in almost every respect." I can assure you I was quite impressed, more especially as this lord of creation has a convincing little gesture which — well, it speaks volumes. But I don't think his excellency will show to advantage when he sees the above. Well, let him storm, it will serve him right. Do you know, Dot, the boys say I am in my "dotage" (pun, I suppose). They may laugh; I shall laiigh too, and if they tease me I shall put m something that will make them collapse. That reminds me that I owe Bertie something for quoting to me, "Dear Dot, I go to school," etc., etc., although I am constantly trying to force upon him the knowledge ihat all ltttors of that type have gone cut. f.rnie liqw.

Mauley; it won't do— your trying to make us believe you are a boy. Boys seldom display a taste for fancy woik, you l-an,v, jmcl kincy Dot would not call a v% ucy 'oc-iv. I thought from the first that you imc awe, lively <nrl, and when I had read ;<w Idler I told my mate that I did r.ot ' move si v ord of it lyour being a boy, I mean). They say I am quiet, and I belie\e T am (sometimes); but be that as it may, I like lively girls best. I was amused at Bt>y's last letter. Are jou iust beginning to realise that you are getting old Boy? Don't despond, my dear fellow. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereoi— only, if you write until you are 20, Man ■would be a more suitable norn de plume. I do not wish to exceed the "400," Dot, so give my love to the Witness Office, and all in and connected with it.— Yours tiuly,

PIQUE,

February 23. ' [Dear me, Pique, what an insinuation to throw out! No wonder neither Eniineline nor Dot are to be seen very often by visitors to the Witness Office, when theie i-> danger of such a charge as that being hurled at them. \Vhatever was it Maidey said to lead any of -. ato infer that she was a boy? I really cannot remember ; but, with such a name, how could anyone think her a boy for a moment ! — DOT.]

Dear Dot,— l was at the Floral Fete on Wednesday, and kept ray eyes open for badges, but I didn't see any. I fancied I saw one on the coat of ti High School boy, but I was too far away to distinguish it. However, I was going along George street when I saw one, but I didn't know the wearer. Are we^going to get some sunirner at last. Dot? I had a, good laugh when I read Solomon Slew's Recount of the Old Phil's christening. I wonder if he remembers anything about it— l don't suppose he does. lam so glad Lactysmith is relieved, and I suppote everyone else is. The school children got a holiday, ana, to let everybody see (or, at least, hear) that they were loyal, they went marching about, ringing co-./balls and beating tins. I only know two of your correspondents, and one of them is my cousin. — Yours tuily,

March 2. [The school children evidently made plenty of noise, Loaf, so I suppose it is safe to say they enjoyed themselves. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — We are two very gieat chums, and we made up our minds to wnto to you. Being often dre&sed alike, we are nearly 'always taken for sisters. We know 15 of your correspondents, including 8.0.8., Jessie C, Scotch Wullie, Devonshire Dumpling, and Queen Bess." One day. as Enid and I were out for a walk, we were very thirsty^ and we did not like to go into any ol the houses for a drink. We wandered along till we came io a river. As I was bending down to take a drink, Enid, for fun, gave me a slight push, which sent me flying into the river. As I ■was falling I caught hold of Enid's skirt, and she got such a fright that she fell in too, but ,~ive soon got out — Yours truly,

LADY VIOL AND LADY ENID

[What undignified proceedings for two titled latiies! Stooping to get a drink from a river, and then being pushed and-'pulled in ! Whatever were you like when you got out again, ladies ?— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I am not long home from a holiday to Lunisden and Invercargill, which I enjoyed very much. Skippers is a goldniinmg locality. The men get gold by ■ dredging, sluicing, and quartz-crushing. Our school teacher has lately left us, and our school is closed until we get another.- The war is a very- sad thing, is it not? So many lives will be ,l°ct through it that I am sure we shall all be glad when it is over. I like leading Wullie's letters, as they are veiy interesting. The winters are very haid up here, The only amusements are snow-balling and skating. We are having a new bridge built, and it is very high sbove the river. We have a horse, and lam very fond of riding. With love to the little folk and yourself, — Yours tru'y,

SUNFLOWER

[I am afraid we have a Sunflower writing already, dear, and ii so you will hear fioni her in the course of a week or two, so next time you had better be prepared with another norn de plume.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I suppose you think I have forgotten you, but I only delayed writing because 1 wished to get a badge. There was a school picnic a few weeks ago to Hokitika, which is about 50 miles from here. We had great fun on the nierry-gc-round, and also at the seashore. We got our prizes some time ago. The name of mine is "The City and. the Castle." I like it very much, it being by xny favourite authoress, Mrs Annie Lucas. ■Dear Dot, do you like Annie Swan's books and tales? I do; I have read a great many of them, but my favourite book is "Dorothy's .Training. ' We live in a very pretty place among the hills. Dear Dot, I do ■ihope this dreadful war is soon finished, because of the poor soldiers who are •being killed. I think the writer who -put the advertisement' for rain in has her wish, for -it has been raining incessantly ail night. With best love for yourself, and also for the editor,— -Yours truly,

CAMELLIA,

March 3.

[It was a good change for you, going so far to: your picnic, dear, and I am sure you all must have enjoyed yoursehes well. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — Here I am again, taking up your valuable space, but I'll promise not to break the editor's rule. I know four of ycui correspondents now, so I am getting on, and m time I hope to know more. i k:,.ovr E. H. G-. very well. She ptayccl with me a short time in Dunedin. Dum Duni is a lelation of mme — b it now, I'm telling talcs on him. He is 15 .years old. I wonder what he will say when he pees this, Dot? lie hasn't found me out yet. I was veiy glad to see your letter in last week, E. H. G. I know D. O. S. hy name, but not to speak to. I alto know Chrystal H. lam glad Wullie's father liked her letter, because she is such a sweet, patient girl. She has a lot to bear, and has come down south for a change. She is eagerly waiting for Wullie's letter, and then, if able, will write to you. She thanks Wulhc"s father for his kind thought, and thinks Wullie should be proud of such a father. What has become of Lamb, dear Dot? It seems strange she has forsaken your page. I don't agree with Jean when she says in her letter that the jßoers are s cowardly race. They are a very treacherous cne, but daring and brave; don't you think so, Dot? We can afford to give_ them a little praise for their one good point. There was a false repoit circulated here one flay: -that Lady&mith was relieved. Ail the gchools got a holiday. There was great disappointment when the truth v< as made known. However, it is all right now, and this time it is tru». With love to the editor, E. U. G., Dhiystal H., and yourself, Dot, — Yours tiuly,

CIGAKETTE

P.S. — Dear Dot, do you know what my norn 3e plume is taken from? I think it is a £ood idea to know each one's origin.

[Cigarette is me of Ouida's characters. She was a vivandiere — that is, a girl who follows nn army, and sells the troops provisions, liquors, etc. On the stage she is represented in fancy dress, with a little cask of spirits slung ovei her shoulder, and every now and igain she puffs away at a cigarette, hence her aame. She is always blight and cheerful,

and is the life and soul of the (stage) army. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I have just lead the V\ r itness, and sea that jou would like my photo. I don't think I could get one for you by the Ist of April. Do you want midgets or carte de visites, Dot? I will get my photo taken and send it to you in time for the next group. Will that do, Dot? I wonder who Evangel is. lam too late for the voting, but these are the ones I intended to vote for: Hyacinth, Mona, and Ismeiie. I think your suggestion above the children's cot a very good one, and I firmly believe that you will get all the help yo.i require from the little folk. Have you auy badges left, Dot? My sister says shi wants one, bat she will not send because sn<? thinks there won't be any left. I am sitting; at the open window writing this. There is a vase of flowers on the table, and I had just started when a bumble bee came and alighted on the flowers. I cleared out of the room till the bee went ay. ay, and then caixie back to finish the letter. With love to Dot Minerva, Fatiraa, Isni^ne, and, last but not least, the cditcu,— Yours truly,

March 2,

[I am sorry you have not been able to sen'! your photo m "time for the first gionp, Hoby, but never mind, I hope there will bo plenty later on for the second group. lam afraid midget? would be too sma'l to give satisfactory results, JRoby. The larger the better, but whatever size, the photo must be clear and distinct, with the fpee shoving out well. There ure only about half a dozen badges left, Robv, and 1 do not think I shall order any more, as I can only get a good number, and 1 should probably have a lot left on hn ; .l. — DOT.]

Dear* Dot, — My brothers have found out that I write to you, &o they hpve something to tease me about. I have been away from home for t-.vo weeks. Ihe people where 1 was staying ha\e a large orchard, and I used to s?o every morning and gather m the fallen apples. A Lopf and i (you will thing A Loaf a queer kin#l of companion to have) went to the FiorrJ Fete at Forbury Park on Wednesday. We were looking out for badges all day. but we never saw one. I made an apple tart yesteida3 r , and when I was taking it out cf the ovpn I burnt my finger, and let the tart full on the floor, ar.d then the boys started laughing at me. Sometimes I make tartlets for their lunch, and when they come home from work one wiil say he had to break his with the steam hammer; then another will say he had to seek his for half an hour; but I take it all in good part, for I know they Lke to tease. With love to all the little folk and yourself, not forgetting the editor, — Yours truly, LASSIE.

March S,

[Lassie's brothers must indeed be teases, but as she is a sensible lassie, and only laughs at their joke%, it closs not matter. You should insist on the steam-hammer brother b-mging home a sample of the crushed tart to see how tho jam has blended with the crust. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I know six ycung men who have gone to the war, and one of them has been wounded, but, ] am glad to say, not severely. All the schools in New Zealand were to be closed for half a day on account of Cronje and 4000 c-f the Beers being captured. Our school did nGt happen to t.et the news quick enough to let the children have a holiday, so what did the children do but run nvpy next clay from school. They wcM a, little way up the road and then cleared through a track in the bush, and they did not return to tchool till about 1 o'clock m the afjernoci. We have been having grand weather lately. We ha\;e a new minister down here now. Ho is a real nice minister. A lot of people have been burning their bush lately. I like watching the fii-JS — they look loveiy. With love to all 'ie little folk and vourseif, — Yours tiuly, BENNETT.

March 3.

[It v. as scarcely fair to the teacher to take French leave in that way, Bennett. Why did you not appoint a speaker, and wait o.i the r.eacher with a request for p. holiday .' — DOT.]

Dear Do.,—T he Old Philosopher took Sol aivl me to the picnic with him on Saturday, ani Tve did enjoy, ourselves. One of the little folk asked me if I was Sol, but. I didn't kiJTT who she waa. A lady said we ought to be proud of the Old Phil, and so we ore, Dot. He is good to us, for he i;as been b033 over us for over six years now — ever since Dad went up counvry, aud then tiie Old Phil was nine years oli Didn't he make a young father? Well, he is good to us, but when Dad comes homo he ought to let the Old Phil go up country for a holiday, for he has had none, as he started work the next week after he left school, and he studies Lord. I wish he would go back to school again. He took a book to the picnic, bus 1 don't think he opened it, for he enjoyed himself. Sol kept us on the hunt, ior you. never know where to find him. Sol enjoys giving us same anxious hunts. Our school picnic is at Waihola. I hope you and a lot of the little folk will be there, Dot. It's on a Saturday, — Yours tiulj',

[I am afraid Bert's school picnic has come and gone Jong ere this, and I wns not theie. Hovever, I hope they all enjoyed themselves, and that Bei-t saw some of our little folk at all events.— DOT.]

3)ear Dot, — I am afraid I shall have to pass the bat rouad md sing, "Pay, pay, pay," before I can s,cu my photo taken ior Perhaps the Oid Phil will sport me if I behave well. Dear Dunedimte am? Punch, how glvd 1 was to find j'ou out. Shake hands, girl=. jSovv we're introduced properly. You see I'm not fco bashful as the Old Phil. I think he is sony ha had.it a sister to introduce him to you at the picnic. The badge ought to be an imroduction. You see the Old Phil takes altor Dod m being bashful. I enjoyed myself at the picJiic in spite of the other two nippers. Is'cw, Dun., a lady said we ou&ht to he very proud of the Old Phil, but I think he ouj,ht to be very proud of us, especially Me — doa't you think' so, Dot? Thanks awfully, Puella, for calling that calf after me. You will sometimes wonder, Dot, which calf now wntes to you. Poor .Little Lady, I'm awfully sony for you. When, l come to see you I ahall not go so far as Opoho — I won't say where, m case ihe Old Phil takes another walking fit in his head. I wasn't sorry he got sold. He slipped the lime and oil bottle in his pocket, and didn't atk me to come. If he had asked me I could have found you out in a jiffey. Are you not fair, Little Lady? Now, Dad, you mustn't say we tea&e the Old Phil. Yen know he can take care of himself. He gave me a lecture 3'csterday about being 10 minutes late. lie sees us all at home before he goes to his office. 1 can tell you, we are good boys to the Old Phil, Dad, and I won't want another tplkmg to for a lo.ig time,— Yours tiuly, SOLOMON SLOW.

[I have no doubt the Old Phil is very proud of you all, Sol, but lib doubt you require repressing occasionally or you are different to most other boys. Jam beginning to get quite certain that your name must have been given you sarcastically, Sol. Beit &ays he never knows where to find you, and I fancy you pro a pretty lively younger b: other to the Old Phil.— -DOT.]

Dear Dot, — We have h«icl very changeable weather here this last week or two. When I wrote last time two of my schoolmates also wrote, and we signed our names Thiee Schoolmates, but we write separately now. and all have different names. Jam glad to see ?o many corresponding to your page, and all wiit-

ing interesting letters. I know a good few who write to you, Dot, among them being Pauline, Miss Muffet, Doreen, Schoolgirl, Olive, and lam not sure of Roxburghite. I should like to ask Roxburghite if she is fair, not very tall, if her eldest sister is ill Christchurch, and if she has three or four brothers? Pauline, I wish you would hurry up and write to me. You may not know who I am, but you ought to. I was down where you live for my holidays a year ago or more. Dear Dot, I did not manage to get anywhere for my holidays this summer, but had lots of fun at home. One day my mate and I and two or three others went for v, meme up the river, and we looked for birds' nests while the others lighted bushes and had their fun. But the best of it was when we brought back the eggs. We boiled them and my mate stood alongside of them for about five minutes or more, and after all that trouble with them just as she was going to take them off they all fell into the fire, and that was the end cf the birds' eggs. With love to Pauliae, Miss Muffet, and yourself, — Yours truly,

MOTHER HUB BARD

[Whatever did you boil the birds' eggs for, Mdther H. ? Surely you were not going to oat them 1 ' And then to boil tiny things like that for five minutes — you must have wanted them hard indeed. However, you had a capital day's outing evidently. — DOT.J

Dear Dot, — How nice it must be to get such a lot of letters. What a lot of writing you must do — all the same I should not like to be you, inside all clay, and cloiiig such a lot of writing. Doss it not injure your sis;ht? What nice letters 8.0.8. writes; I wish I could write hkp him — couldn't you giv? iuc a lew hints, Dot? I wonder if Wullie is 1< jr ii.c end cf his holidays yet? I should n ike to see the fourth contingent away, "but -I'm afraid I ■shall be disappointed. 1 have stopped to read the Critic Club. Five imputes later: I am nearly falling off my chair .vith laughing! I suppose you lemember Isabel Mshanoy, vho used to write tales for the little folk. I know hsr, and i am always looking to see if iiiere ia one of her stories ia the paper. I suppose it isn't every " iittle folk " that cpii boast of being an auntie to three. That's what I can do, but I f-n^pose 1 phall have to bid you good-night, With a sigh. So it's good-bye chil'un, I will hab to go, Where de rain don't fall an' de win' d'm'o Llcw, An' your ulster coats you will not r.oed, When you ride upon de chariot m he morn. With love to all, including yoursolf, r.i d that impatient editoi,— Yours truly,

liEDvTTAItT

[You will not look m vain this t iiie, Jiedstart, for IsobeL has a tale in this week, b~.it it is not a children's tale, but a <- giown-up's, ' ai.d a very pathetic one it is. I am sure most of my little frier ds will read it, even Uicugh it is r.ofc in their page. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I am sorry thai I am too lato for the voting", but if theie is a second group can we vote for anyone wko&e pholo was in Ihe last — I inea>i the first one? That is a good idea about the D. L. P. Cot. I hop? the D. L. P. will appiove 01 it, and demonstrate their approbation in a tubotaEtial manner. I wonder which : eport about V. M'K. we are to believe. What a glorious time we had last Friday. It is needless to ask if you were on the festive spot. I was standing by i-Jie Douglas Hotel, and saw eveiythir.g splendidly. 8.0.8., poor old fellow, I heartily sympathise with your longing to be eft to the Transvaal; but I suppose you will havp to bs contented. i have seen a few dozen badges lalely, mostly worn by girls. I know Hariy, Bert, and Scl by sight, and also PriaciUa and several others. Echo, Dunedmite, and Marguerite are the chief of our girls novi , also, Dockleaf, Koby, and Itniene. As for Lamb, lam quite disappointed every time i look lip and down the page for her signature, as il is never there. I v.'t>3 sorry I could nov get to the annual picnic of the Times people, but business, siways business, with vie. I see all the letters iue shortened considerably, so J shall stop. Adisu, hoping to see tins i.i punt in a few weeks' time. "With leve to Duncchnite, Echo, Shan, and Harry, and our dear Dot,— Ycura trill y,

THE COOK

[That is much better, Cook, but vhy do you wiito with your left haad? It looks as if you wished to <?i£giusc your writing, and it is &o difficult to lead. Jam cure t!~e linotype operators will dread to see your wiitiag. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — "What viifte>iir, the pco>p oi LadysmiUi niust htivt enduird! Ju a t f«.ncy hvin^ Oil horseflesh and porndfce, and no delicacies for ike tcver-slrickon people, their illness, no douLi, caiisecl by the pollution of the water by the Boc-is. Dear Yiot, don't jcii think that Geneial 'Whit: and his ga:-i:?o- need to be. sent away ior a change io regain their health '^ What a lelief it will be to the Empire when we hear of Mcfcking being relieved, as they must be suffering terrible privations being besieged for the last five moathfe. I arxiously watch the papers every day to heai of Lord Methuen's arrival with the relieving army. Colonel Plm«er deserves a Y.C. for the plucky niaunci m whioh ho is foicmg his way fiom the north to assist his chief Colonel Bftden-Powcll. De?i Dot, what a great day ii will bo in Dmiedm o.\ the _24th, ihe send-oft of the fourth contingent. J. aiii anxiously counting the days, as we aie all P'.omised a tup to see their depprtvu'e. T>e:v Dot, I like yon: idea of the little folk &nbscubing a fctim o£ vno-iey for the cot ftino. I mjsc-lf v.ill subscribe as you euggest; biit I prefer sanding in the year's subscription r.t oace. What a nice verse liariy dedicated to Z'ir.iguerlie in th:s v/cek'& Y/itness. lie seems to b2 quite a poet I know yen, Maiajueritcjour initials are M. 8., and jou live in a place whose initial letter is O. "With love to dear old Marguerite and your own precious seli, — Yours truly,

MASCOTTE

[I hope Mascotte will read or the lelief of Mafeking m the same Witness that her letter appears in. I th.uk gallant Baden-Powell will want a holiday quite ps mush as brave Gpneral White, and probably be quite ab unwilhng to take one. They are two brave me a, and I hope they will live to enjoy the rewaid they deserve. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — So- our pages have been shoitencd at last. What a shame! The editor is greedy, and wants too much for himself. I won't send him my love any more. I say, Harry, 1 have been looking out for tlvit photo for a lone; while, but am disappointed every day. So look alive now. Why don't yen hurry him up, Bait and Sol Re the chi'dren's cot for the hospital, Dot. I must pay it is a capital lde-i, and I am saving up 6d a week (can't afford auy mole just yet, as the holidays hiought me to rather "hallow water). Later on, no doubt, I shall double it. I wonder whatever has happened to Lamb. Peihaps her auntie and uncle won't allow her to write or to see the papers now. I'm positive she is the little girl to whom I alluded m one of mj' letters some time ago. J must come to a full slop here, Dot, or I shall be breaking the rules again, then our Dot will be so c-r-o-s-s. With We to 8.0.8., Harry, Ziska, Holly, and youiself, — Youis tiul^,

MAIDEY.

T? S. — I say, 8.0.8., you are gethog quite p. stranger. Suiely you arc not downhearted because you cannot go to the war?

[No, Maidey, not c-r-o-s-s, but s-o-r-r-y that she would have to curtail your letter. Suielv.

dear, you cannot afford to put away more than 6d a week for the D.L.F. hospital cot?. "Why, I shall be quite happy if a lot of you can put that away a month. Think how much it would come to by the end of the year. You kno-» I don't want your subscriptions to become .burdensome. — DOT.]

S. R., Kuri. — I have only one or two badges left, and I am afraid thej' will Le gone before you can send for them. I don't think there will be sufficient demand to warrant my ordering more, so those who haven't sent before now must just regard themselves as out of it. Amy A. — No, dear, I cannot get all the letters in just now, so I have to select the best and leave the poor ones out. If you try again when -you get on a little further at school perhaps you will be more successful. A. E. S.— lt was addressed "Dunedin" instead of Dunrobin, and that was the reason you did not get it. You will r.o doubt have received it ere this, however. — DOT.] Laddie. — Mr Harnmaker's address is Findlay Courier Company, Fine! lay, Hancock County, Ohio, U.S.A. I handed your letter to the editor, who said he would do as you wished.

ANSWERS TO LAST WEEK'S RIDDLES. By The Skipper: — (1) None, for they are all carried ; (2) a pump.

Badges sent from March 12 to 19: — Lizzie E. Nicoll, Susie Kirk, A Mothpr, Maltha Dickey, Ernest Dickey, Mjrtle, Red, "White, and Blue.