LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK. Motto: We write for the benefit of others, not

Otago Witness, Issue 2660, 8 March 1905, Page 81

LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK. Motto : We write for the benefit of others, not

for out selves.

Dear Dot,— l am going to write you an account of how I spent Christmas and New Year. On Christmas Eve I rode to Milton oj my bicycle, partly on business, but chiefly to see and be seen. However, I didn't stay long there, as I was in a hurry to get back to join a carolling party. I rode back in the face of a strong wind, and reached home about 10.30 p.m. After disposing of my parcels, I set off again on my bike, and joined the carolling party. Our choir conductor invited us into his house, where we passed away the time playing and singing till they got the "carriage" and everything ready for our expedition. About 11.30 p.m. everything was in readiness, so, after satisfying ourselves with cakes, etc., we all trooped out to the waiting carriage, -which proved to be a dray, with an organ tied in one corner and a number of bags X)i chaff for seats — and very good ones they made, — with a good strong horse to pull the lot; and we needed it, too, as there were 10 of us. All seated and the torch lighted, we started carolling — quite a novel way of going about the business, was it not, Dot? You see, this is a rising township, but it .is still very scattered, so that was our reason for taking the dray, as we would have been too tired to walk round alt the time. So I can say I spent part of Christmas Eve and watched tho beaxitiful dawn of Christmas morning in a dray! ' Oh! what a glorious sky it was; if it could only have been painted by a gifted artist, what a rare and lovely picture it weuLT have made! It did not last long, however, but soon faded and disappeared from our view , so I did likewise, for I then disappeared away home, 'i'he nest day of importance was oui picnic day, but of that I'll say little, as you have already had a number of different accounts of it. But I would like to give an explanation of the changing of the picnic ground, which proved a disappointment to several who did not join our party m Milton. Lxillie was giving a bit of a "dijg" in last Witness, and said thsy had to drink water, as Beta was not there to make the tea at Quarry Bush, as she promised ; but as far as I can remember Reta never promised to make the tea. The fault lay between Fairy Denise and myselt. As most of the Milton L.P. know, it was arranged on the show day that the picnic was to be held at Quarry .Bush. .A* neither Jessica nor I knew anything about the outskirts of Milton, we had to rely on the Milton L.F. to pick out a^uitable place, and I think it was Fairy D. who suggested Qxiarry .Bush. As everything was arranged that day, I, a few days after/- wrote a lettor to the page tslling of the arrangements w? had made, etc., and it wasn't tilt after my letter was away that Jessica received one from Fairy I>. to say that she was afraid Quarr/ Bush would not be large enough for our picnic — that is, there was not sufficient clear space for playing games; and she thought Jones' 3 .Bush? would be the better place. However, by that time it was rather late to write another letter to Dot, unless, perhaps, I had written straight away, and evea then it imgus have -caused Dot some trouble; so Fairy D. said she would let as many as she could about the district know, and if we mat at the station it wouldn't make much difference. Still, I don't wonder at Lullie being a bit annoyed aftsr going to Quarry Bush, and then not finding Sis there. Had Jessica and I arranged to have the picnic in our own district we -would have known what place to decide upon; but our aim was to Jiave the picnic in as central a spot as' we could get it, and I think the place suited in that respect. The picnic is to bs an annual one, and I hope no mistakes will be made next time. Bride"s Blossom deserves credit, for he came all the way from Clinton to honour the picnic with vis presence, as^r several came from Lawrence, among them being Devonshire Dumpling, whose acquaintance I was extremely please. I to make. "We were honoured by another old writer turning up among the crowd who went to Quarry Bush — namely, Jim Brown. It was the first L.F. picnic I have been at, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, and hope it won't be the last. The next Tuesday evening I went to town, and made good use of the 10 day 3 I spent there. . I took my bicycle with imp, and enjoyed some good rides. I went to tho club on January 10, and enjoyed the evening "very much. I made the acquaintance of several whom I had not seen before. Tlie next day while walking along the street I dropped across Troubled Housewife, whom I had itoet at the cjub the night before, and before we parted we arranged to meet again in the afternoon and go to the Hospital, and then to the Witness office. We v/ent to see ths D.Li.F. Cot, and found it occupied by a tittle boy, who had been brought in the night before with a broken arm. From ths Hosp't.il we proceeded to the Witness office. I led the way rip the big iron stair, which T H. did not fall in love with, wondering when ive were ever going to reach the top, and entered the room -where the linotype operators were at work, and after watching operations and having the different works explained — for some of the men will almost take their machines to pieces to let you see the way it works — and really it is a wonderful machine, — we had a look in at some of the other rooms ; then went down those dreaded stairs, and had. a look into the library; and then I led the way to the editor's room, and, my knock being answered by a cheery '•Come in," I opened the door, walked in, and shook hands with the editor, and then introduced T. H. The auto, book was brought out, and T. H. wrote l.er autograph in it, I having entered mine the night before, and then the ever-obliging editor offered to accompany us through the jobprinting and the electric • rooms, and finally landed us in the illustrating rooms, which we we had a good look through. Then we went into another room, and were introduced to two young ladies, who were retouching some photos which were to be in the nest week's Witness. We spent a considerable time with them, laughing and joking over one thing and another, and then, realising that even the best of friends must part, we made our way out, and soon found ourselves walking up the street; and before going very far I had to part with Troubled Housewife, as she had to go and pack up ready for her homeward journey the next morning. That tevening my cousin and I went for a grand ride round the Bay, which was the finish up of that day's events. The next morning I cleaned my bicycle, and then rode through Woodhaugh, and up ?s far aa the Leith Valley School, and arrived back in time for dinner ; after which I again •mounted my "wheel" and set out in the direction of T. D. A.'s home, and, not having much difficulty in finding the place, reached there shortly after 2 p.m., and received a warm welcome from T. D. A. and her mother. Shortly after T. D. A. proposed a walk to a place she called "The Rocks," which we reached after a good long walk, which was very pleasant, although there was a good stiff wind blowing, which made us hold on to our hats. When we got to the big rock, T. D. A. was afraid it would be too windy to get on top of it. However, we thought we would risk it, so she hoisted me up first, thinking, I suppobe, that if I didn't get blown off it would be quite safe for her ; but when we got on top the gale we experienced before seemed to have increased to a hurricane, and we had to crawl along on our hands and knees till we got hoid of a smaller rock which is on top of the big one, and then I was able to turn round aud

view the scenery. Looking down one side of the Peninsula you could see Port Chalmeis, fiavensboiirne, and the whole of Dunedin and suburbs ; while on the other side rolled the mighty ocean, splashing and foaming over tho rocks. It was really a splendid view; but it was too windy to stay up long, we scrambled down and walked back to the house, where we had tea, pud tben I hurried back to town, although both T. D. A. and her mother tried to coax me to stay; and gladly would I have done so, only I had made up my mind to come horns that night, as I knew my mother would b? looking for me. After promising that the next time I came to town for a holiday I would go and stay a night or two with them, T. D. A. accompanied me a short distance down the road, and then, sad to say, we had to part. I then mounted my wheel and rods off, carrying with me pleasant memories of niy visit to T. D. A.'s, which had only one fault, and that was it was too short. Ah", short but sweet! I am already looking forward to the time when I shall again have tho pleasure of another trip to the Peninsula. \Vith a bit of a hurry-scurry I managed lo catch the last express, and landed in Milton at 9 p.m., where I left my luggage, and then rode out home on the bicycle. That ended my holiday, po I must now end this letter, as it is already far too long. I know Dot will think so, too; but please excuse ma, Dot, as I do nof write very often, and I won't be able to write many more letters, for I am now in the position that Jim Brown described, when one is

" Standing with reluctant feet Where the brook and liver meet." Now I'll close. Wi^h much love to all connected with the page, — Yours truly,

[It is long, "Reta, but so interesting that it really is not too long. lam indeed sorry to learn that you are within hailing distance of the dreaded retiring age, dear. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I only got two days foi my holidays, nevertheless I enjoyed myself not so badly. A week or so back I was out at the hay. We were taking it in with one horse and a framed sledge. My little brother, four years old, was out with me, and so I took him on top of the load with two pitohfork=, with which I had to steady the load. All went well till we had to cart some down the hill, when the sledge tipped, and over want the load, forks, D., and myself. I got a scai;e, as I feared the fork had hurt my brother, but when 1 heard him saying "Where's my hat?" I knew there wasn't much the matter with him. Everybody up here is crying out for rain — a very unusual thing. I have left school now — for good, I think. I got two prizes -at school this year — for spelling and composition — "Daisy in the Field" and "Ungava. I got "The Life of Nelson" and "Deeds That Won the Empire" for being one of the thirds in the Navy League examination of naval history. JL/ast year I got a pair of scissors foithe first sewing prize, and the girls' popular prize and a book for marks, so I did pretty well in the prize line. There were such nice prizes at this school the last time — pretty inkstands, workboxes, games, dolls, books, baskets, etc. The smallest girl in the school got a dressed doll, with a slate, pencil, and sponge and bag, for good conduct. It was very nice of the teacher to give it to her, I thought. On break-up day I spent such an enjoyable time, [n the morning the flag was hoisted, and the children, saluting, sang "God save the King." Than we went iv and went through the dialogues, recitations, and songs we were to say in 'the afternoon. This over, we went to' the bush for ferns to decorate the school. Some of us had brought flowers, so it looked very pretty. The minister gave out the prises after the programme of songs, etc., had been gone through. We finished up this enjoyable dsy by having tea and cakes, provided by the ladies connected with the school. Witii love to all, — Yours truly, N. E. J.

Dear Dot, — Like manj' more, I have been taking a holiday. I left Arrowtown on Tuesday, December 27, for Queenstown, to catch the p.s. Mountaineer waiting to convey the holiday-seekers across Lake Wakatipu. The rush and bustle of the crowded wharf were at length left behind, and ''.he passengers endeavoured to settle do-RTi aipd make themselves comfortable. The prospect this sunny morning was entrancing. The water of the lake reflected the vivid "blue of the cloudless sky, and the steep .giant Remarkables seemed about to close in over tho3e dark blue waters. Two hours' steam on the lake, durine which we were served with hot breakfast — the best course being the trout of the lake — brought us within sight of the wharf at Kingston, also the train. What a feeling of delight there i% iv the first move of the train! At la9t we having shaken the dust from off our shoes, and are bound for the open country, where the wind whistles free through the tussocks and clears the cobweb 3 from our brains. Gradually, as Kingston is left behind, the view on the Waimsa Plains changes and the prospect becomes more desolate. The line no longer passes through luxuriant trees and rich meadows, but tussock-covered hills and bleak, v.rad-swept plains take their place. Now and again the plains are varied by groups of dark fir-trees, which contrast with clumps of gum trees killed by last winter's frosts. It is a melancholy sight to see these exotics from a, warmer land seared and dead -amid the fresh verdure and growth. We arrived at Gore about midday, to find the atmosphere hot and sultry. All Gore came clown en masse, as it always does, to see the express arrive and depart. There was a jaunty, holiday look about the attire of the young men and young women. After changing trains for Invercargill, I made my way to the luggage van. Bags and boxes were being ejected from it like stones from Mont Pelee in eruption. A porter spared a fraction of a second to say that ours would go straight through to Invercargill. An hour and a-half brought us into Invercargill, with cries of "Claim your luggage, please," and "By your leave." We were kept busy for the first few minutes after our arrival. After securing my belongings I soon found my way to the Prince of Wales's Hotel, where I received a warm welcome and abundant hospitality from the proprietress, Miss M'Kenzie. There was a cold southerly wind blowing, which kept me indoors until late in the evening, when I took a stroll down Dee street. During my stay there I had the pleasure of meeting Ita, Casino, Country Larrikin, Rima, Zealia, Southland Cynic, Ceres, and others whose names I do not now recollect. I was greatly impressed with the way the town has been laid out, showing wisdom on the part of those responsible for such work. I could not spare time to visit the Bluff or Stewart Island. However. I have reason to believe that they are' ideal places for spending a holiday — particularly so Stewart Island, in that I understand it affords ■desirable climatic conditions, to say nothing of scenic attractions. I left Invercargill the following morning in the northern express en route for Dunedin. After an hour and a-half's ride in the train we steamed into Gore, taking on passengers, among whom were some well-known faces. With a cheer we bade Gore farewell, and moved forward on our way. From Gore to Clinton the country keeps its quiet beauty without much variation, save that the Blue Mountains come into view. Clinton is a desolate, bleak township, with bush-covered hills overlooking the station. A nice dinner may be obtained at the Temperance Hotel, which is

ready to sit down to as soon as the train arrives. At most of these country stations tlie inhabitants seem to "do" the platform m the same manner as the town people "do" the corners. The next station of importance 13 Balclutha, '"a cold, dry, prohibition place. Kailangata township can easily bs seen, and then comes pretty little Lake Waiho'a. Tho waters of this lake are usually yellow and muddy from the sluicing and dredging. The tram hastens along through the lovely Taieri Plains. The entrance into the tunnel at Abbotsford is wild and beautiful. The hills narrow until they form a, steep glen, up ths sides of which grow tussock, bush, and flax, while great boulders burst forth everywhere. No sooner is the station left behind than the tram plunges into another tunnel, and lo! we find ourselves at that pretty suburb, Caversham, now part of the city. The sea sparkles in the distance, and ths closely built houses in the foreground make a charming picture. In less than 10 minutes the train rushes into Dunedin Station, and we alight at a beautiful town, to which no pen of mine can ever do justice. I was met by a friend at the station, and good fortune and a little manoeuvring enabled us to secure a seat in a cab, and it was not long before we were speeding along Anderson's Bay road towards South Dunedin^ 1 stayed five weeks in Dunedin. New Year was ushered in -with the usual festivities. Being a Sunday morning no doubt modified the enthusiasm of the people. Ou January 2 1 attended the Caledonian shorts, and enloyed myself immensely. I also went to the theatre ; but what interested me most was a ride in the new electric cars as far as Normanby. I left Dunedin for Queenstown on February 1. The tr?in arrived at Kingston nbout half-past 5. It was not long before we were all on board the p.s. Ben Lomond. Hounding the pretty peninsula, which has been laid oi>t as a public park, we wer? fairly ]a the bay, and thsn an entrancing sight delighted the vision, for here, nestling amongst its trees almost to the edge of ths silver beaches, was Queenstown, that most charming and most delightful of alpine cities, where no one is ever in a hurry, and where trains and tramcars ara unknown. Before closing I must bid farewell to Dot and my comrades, because I have reached the D.L.F. allotted span. I have only been a writer for four years, but I have made many friends among Dot's L.F. during that sho v rt period. Wishing all D.L.F. a very prosperous year, and long may the page flourish. With your permission, Dot, J will be among the old writers when the O.W.W. comes round again. With best wishes to Ocean Wave, Emmeline, Salon», Ceres, Dot, and the editor, — Yours truly,

ARROWITE

P-S. — I shall always take an interest in the page, and shall exchange autos or correspond with any L.F. if they address letters to this address: "Mary Fitzgibbon, Arrowtown, Lake County. '

[We shall all look forward with plea.-sf.re to your feapearance in 0.W.W., Arrowite, ami I need scarcely say .that I r-egret exceedingly the onward march of Tims which has brought you to retiring age. I wish you a prosperous and happy future, dear. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — It was about two months before Christmas that. I sent you my last letter, and many things have occurred since then. Three weeks before Christmas, along with two of niy mates, I left here for Dunedin, where we sat for the matriculation examination. We spent a couple of weeks in town, and although ,it rained constantly during that time we enjoyed our trip very much. I saw in last week's Witness that Derby was telling ycu of the dreadful hill near- the Upper Junction. Well, Dot, I can sympathise with him, for I walked it almost every day I was in Dunedin ; but I was getting used to it at last, I don't think there are as many D.L.F. in Cunedin as in the country, for I didn't meet" ons during my stay. Although I had made up my mind to visit Dulce Doman, I did not get an opportunity to do so, for it rained something frightful the day I intended to go. I came home the week before Christmas, and enjoyecl myself very much the following month. The day after Christmas the usual picnic was postponed until the next day, a cricket match taking place instead; but I did not see the match, as I went with some friends to the Waipiata sports. It was very windy — a fact which didn't help Waipiata to look its best. As there is no shelter near the grounds, the wind was very disagreeable, but occasioned some fun, for everybody was holding on to their hats. I met a good few old D.L.F. on the grounds, and saw A Mother's Lass, Mine's A Better One Than Yours, Star, and Indian Chief. I had a chat -with Star on the station, but I don't think the ethers saw me. When v:e came home' from town A 'Mother's Lass was here sitting foi the p.t. exam., and Hoolihan was in Dunedin for the same purpose. I sincerely hope they pass, don't you, Dot? We left Waipiata about 7 o'clock, and reached home after 8. Next day I attended the picnic, and as the weather was perfect I enjoyed it to the full. Star came in for the picnic also. Jessamine spent her holidays in Clyde, and brought The Flower of the Chitha down with her. A few days ago the two just mentioned and Gwenevere and myself walked about a mile for gooseberries. It was a roasting hot day, so you can imagine how we felt when we reached our destination. The gooseberries were something lovely to eat after the heat. Although none of us happened to pass our exam., we still go to school, and I suppose we shall be going again for the same exam, next var. N~xt time I go to town I must go through the Witness office. Sports day was very cold 1 ere, but the race days were fairly fine. I did not goto the races, as I did not feel i .-dined to. With love to yourself and all DLBYours truly, GOLDEN LOCKS

Dear Dot,— A little while ago, along with n y sister and brother, I attended a picnic at Chatto Creek. We left home at about 1 p.m., and when we reached our destmat.on a good many people were already assembled, ihe picnic was held at the foot of a i-11 on a grassy piece of giound, with a few tiees on one side and a clear stream of water flowing past. After playing games for a while we had lunch. When lunch was over, tl c prizes were given out xo the Chatto Creek school children. There were some very Tj.ice books, and among them were "A Sailor, E/o -y Inch of Him," "A World of G11U3," "Little Women, ' "Miss Bobby," and "Sevpn Little Australians." I have read the three >btmentioned, and I think they are very j. cod. The children having received their prizes, different kinds of races were, indulged .n. I went in for several races, but did not win ; after all my running I omy succcod »cl In winning a penny. What would" you advise me to buy with it, Doty The prizes for ihe races vvere very poor, but as one r ian -said, "It was just for the fun of the thing!" The three-legged race and the wheelbarrow race were both very amusing. It was comical to .<=. c one boy taking another by the legs, and* wheeling — or, rather, pushing — him along aa a wheel ban ow. Skipping, hop-step-and-niuip, and wrestling were also indulged in. When these were over, we haa 1 some inor.e lunch, and finished up with a lolly scramble.' As my sister, brother, and myself had to walk all the way horne — a distance^of abou^ fmir miles

and a-half — you may be sure we were pr-l'y tired when we got there. It was almotT Urlt when we got home, very tired, but after having spent a very enjoyable day. We have had \'ery hot weather hero lately — just the sort of weather for harvesting. Our crop is not cut yet, but I suppose it will be soon. My bisier and 1 were learning the piano, but as the school teacher who taught us has left the ch=trict we jnst have to set on as best we .an With love to all the D.L.F., not lorgett.nj. Oot and the editor, — Yours truly, LEJL I ..

Dear Dot, — We are kavin r ; lovciy weather up here just now. My cousm and I have «om« good fun. She has been staying -with me for two months, but she is going home at the end oi this month. I =hall miss her awfully when she goes away. My cousin anJ I intended to y.o to church to-day, but it is too wet. I know a number 0/ D.L.F. up this way. I have two cows to nii ! k pud five pigs to feed. I like both feeding yigs and niilkii.g cows. I have never bocn to Dunedin, Dol, but I am corning up at Easter time* to &su my sister, who lives in toy/11. Dot, I am learning 1 to dance just nov>. I have been to two dances since my cousin came up to sta> witli- ; m£ 3 I can do nearly every dance now. My cousin and I went for a nice walk the other day, and we enjoyed ourselves very nuirh. With love to all the little folk and Mr Editor, not forgetting Dot, — Yours truiy.

AUAT PURD''.

- Dear Dot, — Ws have had about a monih'3 fine weather, but last night the thunder ami ligbtffing were something awful, and then tha ram came down in bucket Juls. I have been staying with my cousin for two months, And, let me tell you, we have hsd a grand time ofc it; but I have to go lioni%p-; the end of next vreek and start work again. I rioa't want to go home ye*-, but I -suppose I shall have- to i^o so, because my mother" has sent for me to go home twice no-wr, and I- haven't gone , bo if I don't go home th?s time sh& will have something to say to me when I get bnck. I have been staying at my -auntie's ioj.- a '\vee>, and I had a grand* time of it feeding hens ami pigs. We had 20 pigs to feed both morning and night, and I am sure 1 couldn't tell 5-0" how many hens I had to feed. AVou l d you like to feed pigs, Dot? , I like it aLT right, but I suppose I would soon get tired of it if I always had to feed them. Since I .came to stay with my cousin I have been at two or three dances, and now I can. do nearly every, dance, so I ' haven't done so bad, have 1, Dot? 1 went for a lovely drive last Sunday, and I enjoyed myself immensely, bu+ when to were going away I lost my coat. I was man awful state, because I didn't think I would, find it, but I got it all right when we were returning. With love to all the D.L.F. and Mr Editor, not forgetting yourself, — Yours truly, ' - - WHIT WEY. Dear Dot, — You will be thinking I have deserted your page altogether, as it is over four years since I last wrote to you. We then lived at Otakou, but as the place did not agreo with mother we shifted into a . lonely littV place called Mihiwaka. I cared little "for tas Viace, so after a while I took a trip down to Catlins, which I shall describe to you. Ons wet morning about half-past 4 I was roused out of bed to prepare for my journey. I gave my eyes a bit of a rub, jumped out of bed, bustled around, and very soon had everything ready to leave. A few kisses, a fewshakes of the hand, and I was gone. I thought then it would be not for long, Dot, bus I have been here now for over a year. Wei l , I reached Port Chalmers, where. l was to get into the train at 7 o'clock. About an hour afterwards I arrived in Dunedin, where I waited for the 9 express to leave for the south. Whilst waiting I fell in with one of my aunts, so we paradsd the streets a little, then proceeded to the Dunedin Station again, whefb I boarded the express for another portion « f my journey. The train was pretty well crowded, so I crept into a snug little corner which landed me near a window, and commenced reading. As there were some beautiful sights to see on my way down, you may be sure I liked to keep one eye on the book and one off, as the saying goes. In due tins I reached Hunt's Road, where I once more, and lastly, descended from the train, and wa=? conveyed in a dray with two horses for about eight miles along a rough, muddy road. Te was "a treat" to have a ride in a dray, Dol; do you think you would like to have a ride in one? I was very glad when I arrived at my destination, where I was heartily welcomed and given a cup of tea. Althongh tire 1 I spent a most enjoyable day. I got acquainted with a, number of the Purekireki D.L.F. c few weeks ago, and had my photo taken with them. If you have already received the phoco I suppose it will appear in the Witness very shortly. With love* to Cornflower, Straight Hair, and Lady of Holt Dene, not forgetting your- own dear self and the rd'tor. — Yom-3 CLEOPATRA.

CLEOPATPA

Dear Dot,— l notice another D.L.F. has, taken my norn deplume. I think I had it first, us I have been writing to you over two yeara now. Would the olher correspondent kindly change it or add II to her signature. Iwi at the Hyde races, and I saw several D.L.F., but I only spoke to two— Only a Leaf and Sailor,— and I overheard what "one of the A. girls said pbout, us. I was at a picnic at Moonlight on Friday, and I enjoyed myself immensely. The children presented their schoolmaster with a pair of gold sleeve-links, and they got prizes from the School Committee. With love to all the L.F. and heaps for yourself, — Yours truly,

QUEEX ANXE

Dear Dot, — I spent my Christmas holidays extremely pleasantly. I was housekeeping while my elder brothers and sisters were at tiit> Middlemarch sports. I was going too, but as we had some visitors to take to the station, which was about 10 miles off, I could not a;o. I was at the races in Hyde on February 10, and as it was a lovely day I enjoyed myse'f splendidly. There was plenty of irint tlier •, and that is a thing I fike. I met several D.L.F. there, but I did not speak, as I had no badge on. There wps to be a ball at night, but I did not stay. On Janu.nr 0 4 our school opened, and on February 17 vo had a great picnic— the largest we ever h^d m this district. Our teacher was presented with a lovely pair of sloeve-hnks, which he "s-e't deserved. They were presented by Boz All the school children ran races, t>nd got toys and prizes. I won two books — "Polly" and "My Plaj'tuates." lam fond of reading if I get an interesting book. There was plenty of lunch and lollies. I saw the Lass of Richmond there, and also Queen Anne. There is to be a social here on March 3 in honoui of a lady who is leaving this district, and a, presentation will bo made to nor. With love to Lily, Little Dorrit, and Boz, — Yours tivlv, matilda"

Dear Dot, — Christmas and New Year ,ive no;? a thing of the past, and we are once more plodding onward, not knowing wh^t Dame Fortune may have in store for t'.s. I va=s at a Sunday school picnic some time a;;o, held o cr at Pine Grove, an ideal place for a picnic. Isly mare and I wore there, and wo enjoyed ourselves immensely. After getting lured" of playing game 3, such ,as rounders, filling uy> the gap, etc., etc., we "sat under tha slulic of the beautiful pine trees— a welcome caangs

from the heat of the scorching sun. Tea being disposed of, we were called together to prepare to get our "phizs" snapped by the camera. A young man told me the other night I looked "a beauty" T quiti> brhi've him, too, for my face la hsml enough to truck anything, let alone iv glnsß. We loiu-licel homo at 9 p.m., "tired but linppv. Tlio Turf Chili held its annual rncos on I'Vlnnmv ">. Tliday turned out glnnotiH, ml my Iwo cliiiuih, my sister, and yours truly wended out wny to Ilio ccur&e. A friend guvo uh n lift hctohh th<' Taieri River m his buggy, which mivprt »k a good deal of walking. Wi> climlivd up »i little hill so as to got n good view of tho races when they wero run. linng well provided with eatables, fruit, li-monude, ginger ale, yon niuy bo sure, Dot, we on joyed ourselves. Tin Tacks, Agatu, Grcon Poplar, and Only a Leaf joined uh, ho it was a ,^oocl D.L.F. gathering. How gay evcryth.ng looked: the lovely green grass blended well with the lijtht summer attire worn by the ladies, and the bright colours of the jockeys made it altogether a picturesque scene. Here and there you could see little groups of ladies and gentlemen gaily chatting, and by their smiling faces I am sure everyone enjoyed themselves. I was at the ball at night, but I did not care much for the dancing part, as it was far too warm. We reached home a little after 5 o'clock on Saturday morning, and I tumbled into bed and had two hours' sleep before starling my daily toil. lam kept pretty busy now, as mother and father are away on their holidays to Enfield.

Well, now, dear Dot, I have come to the hardest part of my leter, where I must bid you and the L.F. farewell. Do not run away with the idea that I have reached the retiring age, for I have two more years to go yet , but for reasons which I cannot explain it is necessary for me to say good-b}'e. I shall continue to take a great interest in the Little F&'k's Page in years to come, as I have done in the past ; and how happy I shall be to be able to say I once was a member of Dot's large band. Thanking you very kindly, Dot, for all past favours, and hoping the page may continue to flourish, and also the debating clubs,— Yours truly, VICTORIA.

(Ellen W. Boyd, Hyde township.) [Needless to say, I wish Victoria a prosperous and happy career. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, — The weather is very fine up here just now, and the farmers are beginning their harvest. We had our school picnic about a month ago, but owing to the day being wet it was not a success. I was greatly disappointed, but towards night the weather cleared up, and we had a good dance. lam very fond of rabbiting. I have three rabbit dogs, and I go out rabbiting every night after I come home from school. I can catch as many as 30 rabbits. Killing rabbits is great fun up here in the winter time, when the snow is on the ground, for they cannot run, and all you need to do is to track one until you find where he is sitting, and then knock him over with a stick. There are a good many hares up here. I caught four the other night with my greyhound. There "re a lot of L.F. in this neighbourhood, and I know a number of them. With love to all the L.F., yourself, and the editor, — Yours truly, YOUNG JAMIE RABURN.

Dear Dot, — Time has flown, with all its excitements and festivities, since last I wrote to you. First of all came Pearl Queen's sistev's marriage, which took place at the bride's mother's home at half-past 8 on the mominq of December 22. It was very cold and drizzly, but the sun tried hard to shine. As I was not present at the wedding I can't gwe full particulars, but will say what I kno*v about it. The marriage was performed on the verandah in the presence of about 50 guests, mostly old friends. After it was over the breakfast was held in a large marquee, which was daintily decorated with flowers and the tables with all sorts of edibles. That part of the ceremony over, a lot yoked up and drove away to Heriot to see the bride suid bridegroom off in the train. They happened to arrive m Heriot simultaneously with anpthf>r delighted pair, and rice was very cheap that day. I was present at another wedding later on, and enjoyed myself thoroughly. It .va& in the afternoon, and after the ceremony and breakfast in the barn a large number of young people stayed and played various games till about half-past 9. Then they adjourned to the house, and indoor amusements were indulged in, such as singing, dancing, and so forth. Then we had supper, and at about 2 o'clock next morning everybody departed, after thanking the host and hostess for the pleasant time they had spent. At both events a piece of ihe bride's cake was handed to each. On the evening of the former wedding a dance was held in the barn, and there were about a hundred young people present to enjoy a, jig. A very enjoyable evening was spent, and at 3 o'clock a.m. everybody departed for home. Both brides received a number of useful presents. Last Wednesday the opening of the railway extension was celebrated in Edievale. The "jigger" comes up to Edievtile now, so we have not to go to Heriot for passengers any longer. The day was very .ioTd and dusty, but all the same there was a good crowd present. Photographers were f^-iig about in all directions. There were about six M.H.R.'s, besides Mr Hall-Jones, who opened the railway. After all the speecies were over the people made tracks to the goods shed, where a banquet was held. Speeches, toasts, songs, dances, and so forth passed away a merry evening. I made the acquaintance of a great D.L.F. about a month ago — namely, Queer Fellow. I enjoyed myself immensely that Sunday, but as he has told you all about it I need not enter into details. With love to Nibornud, Queer Fellow, Peail Queen, and Little Lady, who was an old class mate of mine in Dunedin, — Yours truly.

THE SHEPHERDESS'S FAIRY.

Dear Dot, — I was very unfortunate with regard to holidays this year. Twelve months ago I was promised a trip to Port Molyneux, but when the time came there was very htile said about it. The promiser turned up the day before, but had to go away again the next day. However, if I get the chance again I shall know what to do, I can tell you. On December 2 I went to the Gore show, and there met Country Lassie, Eldergowan, and three or four others, whose noms de plume I have forgotten. I was up at 4.30 a.m., and drove nine miles to catch the tram. It was 12 o'clock when I reached home again that night, so you can imagine I felt pretty tirtd after tramping about all day at the show : I spent a most enjoyable day all the same. A short time ago a resident of this district entertained a few of the people about here with his graphaphone and magic lantern. At about 8 o'clock a couple of dozen people had assembled, and the graphaphone was started with "a real Irish air," as the operator described it. The pictures shown by the magic lantern were just ' beautiful — or, at all events, I thought so. I saw a while ago a letter in which Young Timon was giving Clinton and Waipahi a bad name. She spys she would sooner be in Halifax, but perhaps if she were there she wouldn't like it either. Just fancy giving a place a bad name when we have a Bride's Blossom, Native Vine, aid Peony Rose in the r vicinity. We have nad a good long spell of fine weather, and everyone

has been wishing for rain. They have got their wish, too, for on Saturday evening we had a thunder shower, and it continued showery all next day, much to the farmers" delight, lam sure. Before closing I wish to tender my smcerest sympathy to Harry and tho rest of the family in their sad bereavement. With love to Hiawatha, Bride's Blos&om, Dulce Domau, Indian Chief, and all otherr.,— Yours truly, LADY BENUSSI. Dc-.ir Dot,— We have had a long spell of weuthcr here lately, but the rain, which was very much welcomed by the farmers of this district, hits come at last. I hope it clears up again soon, however. Christmas and New Year ;irc gone once more, and as the weather was not very favourable at the time I did not go anywhere. I had my first experience in thinning turnips this year, and I can tell you it is not very pleasant work, especially on hot days. I shall give you a short description of a concert I was at about two months ago. Noel a and I rode together, and arrived at our destination about half-past 7 o'clock, and very soon a crowd of people gathered together. The first of the proceedings was a recitation by one of the school children, and it was very well done considering the age of the girl. The next was some singing by young ladies of the"district, and it was accompanied with the organ, which was played by cur school teacher. Noela, Laetitia, a few of tre school children, and myself sang three songs — or, rather, tried to sing. Rose Leaf and Noela also contributed recitations, which wore highly appreciated by the audience. Aft?r having a few more songs the forms were shifted, ready for tea, and then dancing began. I stayed to see the dancing, and don't see any harm in it. It broke up at 4 o'clock, and very soon the crowd dispersed in all directions. I arrived home about 6 o'clock in the morning, after a very enjoyable night. The school's annual picnic was held a while ago, but none of us went. From Black Watch's account of the late L.F. picnic, I should say they must have had a most enjoyable time of it. I wish I could get to some of the fine picnics I read about, but I have not much of a chance, as I live too far away. The L.F. are increasing rapidly, and are also go ; ng ahead with clubs, concerts, and many other attractions. I have 96 autos now, but v ill not be satisfied until I get a good many more. With love to Calder, Easter, Honeysuckle, ai,d all the rest of the L.F., Dot, and the editor, — Yours truly, PEONY ROSE. Dear Dot, — We are in our old home again, among the "skeeters" and "floies," and, oh. re do have a time with 'em! We are down staying with grandma for our holidays, you Know. We told you before that we intended leaving here for Wellington. We don't like Wellington nearly so much as we thought we would, althoitgh it is a very lively place. It is quite nice to get back in our dear old home rgain, even if ft is only for a few weeks. We iiave been staying in Riverton for a week, and had lovely weather all the time we were there. We went for a bathe every day, so we ought to be sort of clean now. We have a cousin down with us. She is a terrible girl, Dot. Do you know what she's been doing lately? It has been so warm at nights that she las taken to camping out ovi a straw stack, desp/to skeeters, etc. How would you like that, Dot? Madge has just shaken some ink off the ren on to my face. It was an "accident," of course. We are very sorry to see that Hiawatha has resigned, for she wrote very nice letters. Maisie has just struck a match (suddenly) under cousin Chrissie's nose. My! didn't sho leap ! We are feeling very tired, so v ill retire to bed. I'm sure you will be glad, too, Dot, as we must weary you with our nonsense. Just fancy ! Madge is going a trip to Melbourne next Christmas. Don't Maisie and I wish we were going also. " I think they ought to let us go too, as we have never been parted before. However, I suppose we must grin and bear it. Good-night now, dear Y>ot. Chrissie is very sad because she didn't recjive a letter from home to-night. We say, better luck next time — as we suppose you'll say when you read this scribble. We said good-uisht too soon, so we'll say it again now. With love,— Yours truly, THE TRIPLETS.

Dear Dot, — Time is fleeting. It is over two years since I last wrote to you. So many changes have taken place since then : literary and debating clubs have been formed, picnics and socials have been held successfully al various centres. The page is very popular, and is progressing wonderfully. We have experienced some very hot days during the past three weeks, and this has had a beneficial effect on the crops in the ripening process. A few more fine days, and harvesting will commence. On February 14 the annual social was held, the church being crowded. The minister presided, and splendid addresses delivered by the Rev. Mr Lindsay and Mr J. Craig. During the evening anthems were rendered by the choir, friends from a distance making the evening enjoyable with various vocal items. Refreshments were served at the interval. The annual school picnic was held on the grounds last Wednesday. The weather was all that could be desired, and parents, friends, and children enjoyed themselves accordingly. The usual picnic games were indulged in, toys of all descriptions being the awards for children's races, etc. A dance in the evening brought a most enjoyable afternoon to a close. We are back to school once more, after an absence of six weeks. There were no failures, and I passed into Standard IV. Dot, don't you think there are too many critics in the page? It would be much pleasanter if criticism ■were left to the Critic Club. By Florodora's retirement from the page we have lost one of our favourite writers, but as old ones fall out new ones step in to take their places. Queer Fellow was out this way for a good while. I tender my sinceresfc sympathy to Harry and the rest of the family,~also to the relatives of our late comrade Florabelle, in their sad bereavements. With love to all connected with the page, including yourself and the editor, — Yours truly,

IVY DO RE EN.

Dear Dot, — Here I am again monopolising a corner of the page, but I do not think the L.F. will object to my occupying a little space, as it is a while since I last "honoured" them, with a short epistle. I cannot help remarking that D.L.F. affairs are making great strides at headquarters. What with the critics, etc., things are kept pretty lively, and with Mich an energetic committee as we have at the head of affairs at present the future welfare o£ the club is ensured. Any L.F. attenlint; the meetings cannot but notice the wholeheartedness with which the members throw themselves into the different subjects for debate, and also the welcome extended to auy new L.F. by one and all, and that spe-iks volumes for the success of the club. I notice that a few of the L.F. delight in criticising some of their comrades' letters, but I think they might at least ease their comments ponie■what and leave the onercms task to the Cntic Club, as the majority of tis write to the best of our ability. And we are not all scribes, as the certain L.F. referred to would like to assume; but if they would favour us with tbeir

"valuable" services for a few hints on letterwriting, a number of the L.F. would be very gratified indeed. Might I ask which Ftyle would satisfy their tastes? Perhaps they -a ill be able to re.jjlj favourably on the maiter.

Personally, I know a number of members who will not venture to write to the page so'ely for the above reason, but the so-called "'couimentators" are at liberty to scrutinise this it they wish to do so, for I am ever ready to receive, advice, and perhaps it will be*ir a. second look. I do not wish to be too severe on those L.F., but it is rather too much for one's feelings to come face to face with oi-r "irregularities," which certain L.F. are adepts at finding out. It is not my desire to occupy/ any more space on this subject, but if cerfcim L.F. would think the matter over a few more correspondents might contribute to the page. My word, this is a "growler." If I continue much further I will be another victim for tho "critics." Before concluding, I would like to quote a couple of samples of rather complicated rhyme which I noticed in a leading magazine recently, and, to my idea of thinking, they will take some beating: I. "Schott and Willing did engage In duel fierce and hot ; Schott shot Willing willingly, And Willing he shot Schott. The shot Schott shot made Willing quite A spectacle to see ; While Willing's willing shot went right Through Schott's anatomy." 11. " A silly old fisher named Fischer Fished fish from the edge of a fissure; But a cod, with a grin, Pulled the fisherman m — Now they're fishing the fissure for Fischer.'* Another opportunity for the "critics," little folk! Now, Dot, I think this has grown to a somewhat lengthy "glossary," so I shall "ring down the curtain" for a while. With V-i; to all the D.L.F., yourself, and the kind old editor, — Yours truly, GO HON. Dear Dot, — Harvest is in full swing up thi<s way at_ present, so I can tell you we are kept pretty busy ; but if the weather proves favourable it will not be for long. I have been aray for a fortnight's holiday lately, and I had a fine time. Athough I kept a good look oub for D.L.F., I only saw one all the time. I did not have on my badge, so I did not like to speak to her, but I learnt afterwards that she was a Christchurch girl. I went to see the Oamaxu sports on January 2, but I did i\ot enjoy myself very well, as the wind was wors? than awful. Amongst the D.L.F. I met vc re Lady Stair, Wilful Mary, Waxeye, and a few others whose noms de plume I cannot i-p-mernber. I did not get my photo taken with the group, although I intended to ; but my mate and I went away for a while, so we missed them. The unveiling of the fallen troooars' monument in. Oamaru is now a thing of the past. I did not go (we had the pleasure of having the chaffcutter that day), so I r-ru tell you nothing about it. The Sunday scl.ool annual picnic was held on December 17, and, as usual, was a success. As it was hekl at a place a few miles from the district we were taken in waggons drawn by a traction er.g : ne, and I think the ride down was enjoyed almost as well as anything else. With best love to all, not forgetting yourself,— Yours truly, MARGARITA.

Dear Dot,— l have such a darling little kitten, but it is always getting into mischief. We have such a lovely garden, and I watjr it every night. Our annual picnic was helj on Thursday. We went to Day's Bay, and on. our way home the captain took us around the warships, and we had a jolly time. I am in the Fourth Standard, and I find it veryhard. With love to all the little folk, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly, A MOUN

TAIN BELLE.

Dear Dot, — We had a splendid picnic this year. We went to Hokitika on the 18th of last month. It was a beautiful day, and *-c enjoyed ourselves splendidly. We left Ahaura, about half-past 7 a.m., and got to Hokitika at 11. When we reached our destination the man had the coppers boiling and the tea made, so we all had our lunch, and, needless to say, we greatly enjoyed it. After lunch we went for a paddle in the sea. Oh, dear, Dot, how the waves rolled, nearly taking us out to sea. We then went for a walk over the new bridge. It is a mile and a-half lon<*. It was 10 o'clock when we got back to Ahaura, and we were all very tired. With love to Dot and all the L.F.,— Yours truly,

MOLLY DAWN.

Dear Dot,— We have had beautiful weather lately, but to-day it has been dull. Yesterday I saw Paparoa as she was going down to the station. Yesterday while we were in school the teacher happened to look out of the window, and he saw a house on fire. It was burnt down, and all the thing 3 in it destroyed. Then the bush at the back of the house caught, and it is still burning to-nigh fc. Last Saturday was our school picnic day. We went to Hokitika. It was a very enjoyable day's outing. I went to see the Museum "with Jeannie Dear, Ivy Gresn, Joan d'Arc, and a few other friends. I would have liked to have gone and had a look at the Asylum, but the girls suggested that they might keep us there. There were five picnics besides ours at Hokitika, and the train was very long. A number of girls here are talking about writing to the Witness. I have not seen Nuggety Bob for a long time. She was not at the picnic. With love to Mountain Rambler, Ivy Green, Paparoa, Bramble, Grey Valley, Black Diamond, Nuggety Bob, West Coaster, Joan d'Arc, Jeanuie Dear, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly, LITTLE NELL.

Dear Dot, — I was at a picnic the other clay, but I only saw two L.F. there — Native Vine and Maid of the South. A good number of people were present, and we played fill the gap, twos-and-threes, rounders, and other games. The double-harness race caused a, good deal of amusement. My friend and I are writing on the bank of a creek, which is covered with musk and the pretty blue forget-me-not. It is pleasant to be out, for it is a nice cool evening after a very hot day. The people around here have not started harvesting yet, owing to the late season. It has been grand weather lately, but to-day it has started to ram. With love to Native Vine and aIL L.F. in general, not forgetting yourself, — Yours truly, J, T "'

EMON THYME

Dear Dot,— l am going to tell you how I spent my holidays. Our school broke up ca December 22, and only four prizes were given — two for attendance, and one each for the be&tliked boy and girl in the school. Countess Nightingale was the best-liked girl, so sha got the prize, and I am quite sure she deserved it. The day after the school broke up we had our picnic. It was a lovely day, and everyone seemed to be m good trim for enjoyment. One race was wholly made up of D.L.F. — a fact which we all noted at the time. I thought Chloe would be over to the picnic, but as she was at one the day before I suppose she preferred to stay at home. I went to the Duntroon sports on Boxing Day, in company with Otago and Waitaki Princesses. Just as we were going over the Maerewhenua River, which is quite yellow with mud, we met Fresh Water. As we were in a hurry we chel not have a long yarn with her. When we reached the sports ground we only met one D.L.F.— EuUlie,— and I don't think there weso

any more there. I went to Oamaru on the sports day, and I had such a jolly time, for I met a great number of D.L.F.. When Waitaki and New Zealand Princesses and I were in Oamaru the other day, we met a girl wearing a badge. We said "Hullo!" to her, md she spoke in return. I then said, "What is your norn?" and she said, "Oh, wouldn't you ■wonder?" and then she walked on. Well, you don't know how disappointed we felt after thao. We made up our minds not to speak "to any D.L.F. until they speak first. But if every D.L.P. got the same notion into their heads, I wonder who would speak first ? So on reconsideration we liave made up our xuincfs to pass over the drawbacks, and speak all the same> whatever the consequences may be. I must now conclude. With love to Juanita, Eulalie, Lady Stair, and Glaucia, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly,

GOLDEN PRINCESS.

Dear Dot, — I am going to tell you about my holiday. I left home on the Wednesday about 10 o'clock, and reached my grandmother's about 1 o'clock.- It is only 10 miles from here, but I think it far enough away for a holiday. My cousin had been out before me, and had made a nice swing, and when I went out it was never still, for I was always on it. Before I had been out an hour I had seen all my cousiora-playthings and the garden, the latter of which took us a long time, as it was so large. At night my cousin and I went with. our auntie to get Dinah (the cow) and May (the calf). Auntie has one cow and two calves, and one of calves she keeps tied up in the garden. After we had watched the cow being milked and the hens fed, we went inside, and I read some stories out of the Girls' Own Annual, and then went to bed, thus ending one flay.— Yours truly, MYRTLE.

Dear Dot, — It is some considerable time since I have written to you, but, seeing the large number of JL.F. who contribute to your worthy page, it 7 is not fair to intrude too much on your valuable time. My .letter is to be the last one i» the page, a3 the retiring age debars mj^from contributing too often now. _ There m, however, one consolation that we have— nsonely, Old Writers' Week. You little know, Dot, -with what regret Ben Bacon writes this farewell letter to you and the L.F. in general; but he hopes to meet most of them at Easter in Dunedin, if all is well. In wishing you good-bye, Dot, I hope and trust your page will prosper as it always has done under your special editorship. Best wishes to, Dot, the editor, Awkward N"ed, Scobie, Fred, Hubert, Brother Bill, Harry, Vance, and all the others. Sincerely your L.F. correspondent, <

BEJST BACON.

[I sincerely - regret to learn thpt Ben Bacon has arrived at retiring age, as I thought we should have had a year or two of his company yet: -I hope he will continue to take an interest in the page and the friends he has made .while he has been with us, and that lie will remember O.W.W. at Christmas, and have a good time in Dunedin during his visit at Easter. — DOT.] \

Dear Dot,— What a crowd of events those two little words bring up to one's mind. It is months — in fact, over a year — since I last wrote to your page, so you cannot say I trouble you too much, Dot. It is a new sensatipn for me to be writing to the D.L.F. I am still in the coitntry— in the quiet regions of Central Otago. We are surrounded by hills here, anil nothing is to be seen from day to day but tussocks and rooks, etc. Christmas, is past, and it will be 10 , weary jnontis- before it comes round again. I wish it would come more frequently than it does, as we 'always have a good time about then, and especially on Boxing Day and night. I enjoyed jreadmg the Old Writers' Week letters, some of them being very interesting, and I shall now offer the O.W. my heartiest congratulations on the success of O.W.W. The year 1904 passed over very quickly. It was undoubtedly a very successful one to the L.F. Page, and I sincerely hope this success will continue for years to come. With best love to Esrne, British Columbia, Paparoa, Mountain Gambler, Nuggety Bob, etc., not forgetting the leader,- our beloved Dot, — Yours truly sunny view.

Dear Dot,— Have you ever thinned turnips? 3fy sister and I think it very hard work and we grumbled a little on hot days. iJut they are all finished now for this year. ± do not suppose you have ever climbed a fuchsia tree? I have often done so, and the fuchsia berries are ripe jnat now. We tried to make some Jelly from the berries on Saturday, but it was not a success. All the farmers m this district have had to cut their thistles, and they are going lo be fined if they are not all cut by the end of February. Whenever you go out you are sure to hear the question, Are all your Canadian thistles cut?" X live a mile from school, and take 25 minutes to go there. I am sometimes late, but my master never says anything, as he is very nice _M ith love to yourself and the editor.— Yours truly

YETTA.

LETTERS CONDENSED.

Queen of Thorns tells me all about her Erst ride on horseback, which does not appear to have been very successful. "The weather having been fine lately, the farmers are very busy -harvesting. Some are cutting, stookin°and others are stacking. I went to Hyland ? s Circus on February 9, and I liked it very much. It was a nice clear night, and a large crowd assembled, most of the seats b°in^ occupied. -*"o Lady Isobel Carlyle was away for her holidays, and had a good time. "Waihola, whe'-e I live, is a very pretty village. There is one flaxmill two churches, and one school, a hotel, a hall, and a store. We have a re-atta on the lake here every year, and I go to it every time."

Ahuriri knows a good many L.F. "I live in the country, a long way from Duned'n tut am in town three or four times a year! While there I generally see quite a number of x).lj..b .

Eliza was away from home for her holidays, but she did not enjoy them very much "Very nearly all the children about here are practising for St. David's sports. There are two of the D.L.F. splendid runners, and I think they will win a race or two."

Central Otago has been having an argument with her schoolmates as to the identity and sex of Dot, and she is coming to town at Easter, and purposes calling on me in order to arrive at a solution of the mystery. "Dear Dot, have you ever been up Ota°-o Central line? I live up here. It has been lovely weather this last month, so I hope it ivifl continue."

Heritas has a darling little puppy dog, just six weeks old. "Our school picnic was h"ld on Thursday, and we went over to Day's Bay. 3t was moonlight when we came home. 'We were paddling aver there, and I got drenching wet."

Primrose II was one of the exexu-sion party of 400 who went to the Bluff. "The crops are all nearly ready, and I think they are gofsig to begin cutting about next week. We are going to have a Sunday 6chool picnic next Saturday, and I guppase these will be a good

number at it, as there are two Sunday schools united for the outing."

Guinea Gold tells me about their pet cat, Mabel, which every morning "sings out for its milk." "At home we milk 13 cows every morning and night, and we send four cans of milk to the factory every morning. lam in the Fourth Standard. We have a number of hens, and every week we send our eggs to the port." Palm Lily has six brothers, and she pathetically remarks, "Don't they make a noise!" "We have 13 cows milking, and we send our milk to the factory. We have had awful weather this year for a beginning. Soon all the boys will find out my norn de plume, and then I shall get the full benefit of their teasing propensities, btxt I suppose I shall survive."

Fan gives me a description of a walk she had with Juanita. They wished to go over the river in a chair, but the rope was broken ; so they contented themselves by going over to a derelict dredge and playing about the bridge.

AUTOS

Echo of Lucerne would like to exchange autos with any of the Mosgiel L.F. who are willing. Address : "Echo of Lucerne, Post Office, Caversham."

Queen Anne I would like all the Hyde L.F., and especially Only A Leaf, to exchange autos with her; also Angelesea, Lady la Roache, Lady la Touclie, Elmo, Indian Chief, Awkward Ned, and any other L.F. Address : ""Miss M. Coekerell, Macraes Fat, Otago."

Lady Isobel Carlyle would like to exchange autos with Lady Vane, Weeping Willow, and any other IkF. who are willing. Address : "Miss E. Crane, Waihola."

Lady Benussi would like to exchange autos with Dockleaf, Maisie, Echo, Little Lady, Lady Isobel, Country Lassie, Olive, Lucinda, and Indian Queen. "Please send three, and you shall receive three in return." Address: "Lady Benussi, care of Mr E-. Alexander, Clinton."

Ahuriri would he pleased to exchange autos with any L.F. Address: "Ahuriri, care A. Austin, Oinararua."

Lemon Thyme would like to exchange autos with any D.L.F. who are willing. Address : "Lemon Thyme, D.LJ?., care P. 0., Clinton."

Queen Charlotte is willing to exchange photos with any D.L.F. who are agreeable, arid they will get hers hi return. "I would especially like to exchange with Lady Esler, Jessica, and Dundonald." Address : "Queen Charlotte, care of Postmaster, Henley."

Go Hon reminds Juanita that she has not ssnt her auto, to him vet.

Ivy Doreen writes : — "Those who wish to exchange autos with me kindly address — ' Ivy Doreen, D.L.F., care P. 0., Crookston,' and I will send mine immediately."

Peony Eose would like to exchange autos with Maid of Kilieena, Fred, Scobie, El. Baba, Cherry Blossom, Nipper. Jessica, Marsh Marigold, Isalene, Saucer Eyes, and any ether L.F. who are willing. "I shall return mine .is soon as I receive theirs." Address : "Peony Eose, care Miss A. Alexander, Clinton."

Leila would like to exchange auto=; with Darky, Alpine Princess, Cornflower, Darl'ly's Helper,, and any other D.L.F. who are willing. Address: "Leila, D.L.F., care P. 0., Alexandra South."

Matilda wishes to exchange autos with any D.L.F.,' especially Tin Tacks, Pat Sneezer, and Christinas Lily. Address: "Matilda, care Mr "Reilly, Moonlight, via Palmerston S."

Margarita would_4ike to exchange autos with Isalene, Nuggety Bob, Ita, Jeannie Deans, Elmo, and any other L.F. Address: "i rargarita, D.L.F., Ferncliff, Ngapara." Little Nell would very much like to exchange autos with Clara, Love in a Mist, Hiawatha, Mine's A Belter One Than Yours, Find Out, and any other D.L.F. -who are willing. Address: "Little Xell, care Mr J. H. Garth, Cairn) street. Ahaura."

Golden Princess would like to exchange autos with Rambling Robin and Apple Blossom 11. "If they send me four I will exchange them for them. Would Alice C. and Tanfc Hideout please answer the letters I wrote to them?" Address: "Golden Princess, care P. 0., Georgetown, via Oamaru."

Sunny View would like to exchange autos with Ceres, Leila, and Awkward K"ed, also any other little folk who are willing-. "They will get mine in return." Address : '"Sunny View, care Post Office, St. Bathans."

Joan-nic Dear woxild very much like to exchange autos with Primrose. Gipsy Nell, Bride's Blossom, Indian Chief, Two Flirts, Two Shillings, Inquisitive Poll,vand any other D.L.F. who are willing. "I will send mine in return." Address: "Jeannie Dear, care Mr T. H. Garth, Camp street, Ahaura."

West Coaster.— What a cunning little idea, and what a charming wish, dear. It is really very sweet of you. And then the five and the four leaved shamrock : they are perfect specimens, and it was indeed good of you to send them to me. k. T. — I have forwarded on the letter and paper as desired, and trust you will hear in reply in due course. Cleopatea.— I find she is down as 111 in mv list.

LITTLE FOLK'S BADGES. Badges sent: — With pin: Ahuriri, Winsome