LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK.

Otago Witness, Issue 2686, 6 September 1905, Page 81

LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK.

Motto:—We write for the benefit of others, not for ourselves. Dear Dot,—The weather in Christchurch at the present time is very favourable for outdoor recreation, and the flowers are now coming into bloom. There were thousands of people in Christchurch for the Grand National, and they 'had a lovely day.' The North Hagley Park is now being laid out for the Great International Exhibition, and it is said that the exhibition will be the largest yet held in New Zealand. They have erected a large building in Christchurch called King Edward's Bai-racks, and it will hold thousands of people. Thuisday is Arbour X>ay, and they are going to plant trees on either side of the Uack right over to Governor's Bay. The outing will' be a great treat for the-, school boys. There is a large building in Ohristohurch called the Eoyal Cafe',- three storeys high. You go up ii a lift to the top storey, and then there is a very largo room with a number of tables, and you oan have tea. The weather on the West Coast is also very fine at present.—Yours truly, HEATHCOTIA. Dear Dot,—"We are having lovely weather just now, and most of the people have to carry water, as their tanks axe dry. A new church was opened here on Sunday, and there was a terrible crowd at the opening service. A social was held last night in aid of the building fund, the hall being crowded. I was Ihere, and enjoyed myself very much. I shall try to give yon a description of the town, three miles out of which I live. First theie is the public school; then there are two churches, a hall, a post office, a bank, a bicycle s**b.op, four stores, two hotels, and a bootmaker's shop The town is situated on the banks of the Molyneux Kiver, over which there is a strong traffic bridge. Where I live, is a nice green flat surrounded by hills. My second eldest brother is stopping with us just now. There- are a good number of dredges working on the river about here. The schoolmistress is leaving here soon, and I am 6ure the children win be sorry, as she is well liked by everyone. With love to all D.L.F , not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, LITTLE BRIGHT EYES 11. Dear Dot,—When in Dunedin, one of the D.L.F. informed me that every time a letter of mino arrived the printer who got it "swore like a trooper," so I'm returning good for evil and writing in English. Also, my brother informed me if I did not want my letters oondensed I had better write them in the form of "notes." Well, and it is my trip I'm going to describe to you, and I hope you can spare the space. I left here on the 14th of June, bound for Dunedin, and of course got there. On the Friday I went to the photo-taking, and there had the pleasure "of meeting, among others, my old chums Aretaand Violet Eose. The social was exceedingly enjoyable; but when one has to catch an early train the next morning it is not always best to go to a social tha night before, for one's temper is not improved thereby. For this day I was quite disappointed I was not a boy, for when ooie hears half a dozen times, in disappointed tones, "Oh, I thought you were a boy," it makes one wish it. Vance, however, went one better, and, seemingly being very polite, said, "I'm quite disappointed in not meeting a real nigger"! Thanks' On Saturday I took the S train to Christchurch, and it was a miserable journey. A young fellow in the carriage had a timetable and lead pencil, and every station we passed he'd say, "There's another gone, anyhow" ; and I did sympathise with his feelings, for we weie perfectly sick of it. That night I took the train to Kaiapoi, and was very glad to ses bed early that evening. On Monday morning I told my sister I was going to explore Kaiapoi, so not to expect me in too early; but about an hour afterwards I returned, and told her the most prominent thing in the town was, "We sell pit here", arc! really every shop and corner had that pip card on it. On Tuesday we went into Christchurch and explored that city, nut T don't think it is a patch on Dunedin. We bilced out on the Friday—at least I biked when I was not falling off; but I've sent a, paper to the chtb on th.pt memorable ride. ! I say, Quago, after that description, will you admit me "to ymir D.L.F. Cycling Club when it is formed 9 I'll do to encourage beginners siid piove that many falls clo not hurt. Going down pgain I went to Ngapara for a wa&k tQ stay with Violet#Kose, and enioyed

I myself so much; but in such a home as her*, one could hard.y hslp doing that. Unlika I my own hoiua, it is surrounded by hil's, a»id it was indeed a pleasant change. On mv way do>vn to Oamaru I stopped a couple of nights in Enficld— a very nice little township. Oamaru itself I do not care for a lntie bit. In our old geogia-phy I ramembci % reading soms rhyme about "tho white-robad city tha^ sits by ihe sen," and when about tluee vcrrs rgo I saw Oamaru for the first time I felt a distinct sense of disappointment, for I hardly realised that this dirty grey stone city "T, s Ihe one of the rhyme. Venly observation is better than reading. I came into Dunedin again on a Saturday, having been away sxartiy three weeks. For a week I stopped in Boslyu. and then went to stop with Areta, and there I might say I had the. best time 'it w.13 possible for anyone to have. On the Tuesday evening we went to the club, £>nd took one of my brothers, and it was very good, ypd the officers are all that can be desired; We took the evening train to Otokia tho next day, and I returned to Dunedin on the Tuesday next to spend my last three days in town. In the afternoon we went to the Gardens, and in the evening to the caib. The papers were exceedingly good, but Im-dly gC r the attention due to them; but of course some people can talk as well as listen. The next afternoon I had mv fortune told, and oh, my! Dot, I'm soino- to have a real good time. Aftsr giving mo" tho proverbial riches and two husbands, and all other good things, the soothsayer told me his fee. However, he gave me au exceptionally good time for the money; but all the same, I, don't yet take T. D. \.'« view of this particular matter. Iji jthe evening we went to hear Tittell .Brunej^nd it was just pirid. Thursday we took the car to St ■Hilda and had a pleasant walk" to St. Glair. wnich j£ a beautiful spot,;' and ."we had a good -d-ay tnat day,-' did we not, Areta? l n ths evening we went out arid' spsicttf the e-en-uig m playing "pit," but that game is rather quiet .for my taste. The-H-xt morning I sadly took my way home, after a most enjoyable six-week 3' trip Like most o"f the others returning liome Jr I was "stony broke," and spent even the'^hreepenny-bit I nicked ud for luck" on the Oama.ru station * While at Kaiapoi that dreadful train accidsnt occurred and I saw the scene of the wreck, and really it was most awful to look at. I've been at two socials since returning home, and at one of then? I had the pleasure of having a ya.rn with Bldergowan, and if Quago had been present he might have added "considerable" to his notes. Oh, I forgot to mention that one day we called on the editor and had a pleasant chat with ham. He showed a<3 a beautiful photo of Daisy Primrose, and altogether we spent a most enjoyable half-hour. i h ' I will stop ' a3 X suppose my rubbish is taking up valuable space; but before stepping I must say I shall bo pleased to exchange autos with any who care to do so, and if those who have been askin" for mine send theirs to this address they will receive prompt attention: "Darky D.L.F., care of Post Office. Pyramid Sidin'sr via Gore. With best love to all.— You^s * rul y, - . DARKY. ZL> hope Darky will not, take % the linotype operator's "swearing like a trooper" too seriously, -for we all* look forward to her dialeei^Jetters as a welcome ehanee to the vernacular of tho majority of writers, and should bs sorry to lose the-m because they may hz a, little more difficult to print. I am very glad to Igarn that your trip proved' so enjoyable, Sear" and trust you may be ablo to repeat it next winter.— "D,OT.] Dear Dot, — On a most lovely, day about two months age v Tim, another girl friend, and, myself set oul for Gorge Eoad, -to see tha rew" sawmill. We had about three miles fco walk, and the day was very warm, but we ■ ivcre in no hurry, so we took our time. Ac .about half-past 11 Tini began to get very anxio|is. 1 divined that she wr.s getting hungry; but she only laughed when I asked her, and looked at her watch to see Iha time. Well, we arrived at the mill all safe and sound, but, alas! what a disappointment! — the mill was not working. Poor Tini, who had been very lively all along the road, looked quite down-he.arted. However, it was not for long, and she said the best thing that we oould- do would be to go home. Our friend was going to stay with some friends at Gorge 'Eoad, so we said good-bye to her and set out for home. Tini said that we should Hot come back the way we went, but would go back through the bush aJong an old tramline; so we started, and, Dot, I am sure Ishall never forget it. Tini was on ahead of me, and we came to a big gully, the tramline being built over it like a bridge; "but it wais all grown up with fern's and young trees, and' '-the tramline wa3 very old and rotter". We were so frightened crossing it — at least I wa-s. Tini seemed to bs enjoying it, when suddenly she slipped and fell over the side, right downTTn amongst the tops of trees, ferns; etc. \'Oh', X, did get a fright: I shall never forget it. Poor Tini lay quite still for a few minutes, and then she started to laugh, and then I knew she could not. be vary badlyhurt. She managed to climb up on to th=* tramline again, none ths worse for her fall, and nothing much happened to speak or. during; the remainder of 'our journey. We airived home .about 3 o'clock, ' tired and hungry, but very happy. After *'we had had' some tea Tim said that she must be going honiq, but I would not let", her! Mother was giving- a little dance at night, antl I wanted Tini (who is a most lovely dancer) to stay to it; but she would not,' so- my mother mado her promise that she would come back to :t if she went home. Sbe promised, but veiv niuch against her y will; and a.t about 8 o'clock, after all the other people had arrived. I was beginning to think that for the first time since I became acquainted with Tini she had gone back from her word. Oh, how angry I felt with myself for doubtiii!? her when, with her brother, in she walked. I hope she enjoyed herself. She will be a.iviri£j me a turn when she sees all this in print. W^ll, Dot, we kept things lively until halfpast 2, and then — oh, it is hard to part! bub we had said good-night, and it was all over. It was very sad about Little Flirt, but I frusfc she, is better off in the unknown world. With fond love to all D E.F., "especially dear Tini, yoiirself, and the editor, — sTours truly. LITTLE GIBLIE.

Dear Dot, — At last, afler a year's silence, I am writing a few lines of greeting to you. I "houltl rot have been 'wribhis to-nigac either 'lad it not been for a slight indisposition which exempted me from the usual occupation of my evenings — lessons. So, you see, I am refreshing myseU by writiast a letter to the page. Poor "Bert, I felt qmie sorry for you when I re?d yoiir paper on '"My First Social: a Tragedy. 1 ' It was very sad for you to be placed in such an awkward predicament, was it not, L.F.? His paper, however, when he spoke of the pink and bluo labels, reminded me of a social I otter^'fl not long sinco, when theie "labels" -.it is passed round before supper to provide the partners. To an onlooker the result was extremely amusing-, and as I was ov.o of those who passed round the cards I had a srocd opportunity of observing the wav i" "vhicli the gentlemen went sboufc their btisin^sT of finding their "better halves " I enjoyed it 10 the full. For ihe first 15 jnirmtfts pjccit°iu' i«

reigned supreme, and the gentlemen sought ardently. But after they had found their partners, who generally were not the ones they particulaily desired, these worthy yourfg gentlemen quietly left their ordained partners and sought cut each one the "ppple of Ins eye. Pity the poor young ladies who ■ueio not the apple of anyone's eye! The piopnetors of Havelock tobacco ought to be gratified by finding that even in the D.L.F. Page there is frequently an advertisement in favour of their tobaco. What say you, Smoke Havelock 9 But lam afraid you youiiself are-

too shy to be much of a "living advertis^-

ment" in its favour. The Special Subject Week afforded much pleasant reading, but I was greatly disappointed at not seeing any

contribution from lea, who last S.S.W. con-

tributed, to my mind, the most original paper, "The Missing Link." Everyone else is "making trncks" for bed, so, hoping you will pardon al mistakes, writing, etc., I remain, — Yours truly, IRA.

Dear ~Do\, — Have you ever seen a ploughing match'? I am going to try to describe one I had the s?ood "fortune, or rather bad fortune, to be at, as my chum and I managed to run inlo each other, and I have not been able to tid<e my bike fince. Being a beautiful winter morning, we started early, and stayed at % friend's house for dinner, which we enjoyed after a 30-mile rid© in the frosty air. After an hour's time spent in looking round the garden and watching the various traps, riders, snd cyclists in abundance hurrying by, we again mounted our two-wheeled steeds and started for the competition field, which presented a very animated scene when we arrived. The competitors are each allowed an equalsized piece of ground, and had all got a good start by this time ; so we walked round about and tried to form an opinion as to who would be first. As it was a champion match, and among the competitors were a few from our own district, whom we naturally thought should have been first, great interest was taken in the work throughout the day. It was very amusing to watch the competitors' friends, who walked up and down all day, all giving different advice, and passing opinions as to who would be first. When the prize list was read out, after half a,n hour's time for the judges' decision, we found to our disappointment that we were completely out of it in regard to our local men, one of whom was trying very haid to win the much-coveted place of champion. Prizes are given for the best ploughing, horses, ploughs, best-looking ploughman, etc. I suppose L.F. boys will laugh ait a girl describing such a masculine affair as a ploughing match ; but never mmd — you couldn't expect a girl to do it as well as a boy, anyway, oould you, Dot? With love for the present, — Yours truly, CARMEN SYLVA-

[No, I should say not, Carmen Sylva; however, I think you have done very well indeed. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, — I live in a very quiet place in the bush, and as there is not very much amusement we have to amuse ounselves as best we can by rambling through the bush gathering ferns and wild flowers and birdnesting, etc.; but of course, Dot, it is not very oiten you see girls going out bird-nesting, for they generally leave that for the boys to do. I saw in last week's Witness that Waipati Lass was giving you a description of sawmilling. I have only seen one mill working, so I don't know much about it. I am going to tell you of an adventure my brother and I Irad the other day. We went through ths bush pigeon-shooting. After we had gone a good way in we came across a wild cat, which we tried to catch, but it was too timid to come near us, and ran away. We then pushed on, and we got two pigeons. Before we got out of the bush we came across a big pine with a very large supplejack hanging from it, and we spent about half an hour swinging on. it. I also gathered a lovely lot of ferns. The bush ferns look very pretty when pressed, and I have a good many of them pressed in a book. There are a good many L.F. here. Two of them — Tansy and The Smiling Lass — are away in Invercargill just no.w. Have you ever milked a. cow yet, Dot? We milk 20 for the cheese factory. 1 r t mind milking cows when it is fine ana dry, but in wet and muddy weather it is quite another matter. It is very interesting to see the cheese being made. The factory is always stopped in the winter time, but .as the winter is nearly over now it wi'l soon be starting again. Our work milking the cows will begin then. I saw in last week's Witness illustrations the photos of The Smiling Lass and Violet. A group of the Chaslands D.L.F. was tsken last Christmas. It wa-s supposed that it would appear in the Witness, but it has not been in yet. With best love to all the Cliaslands D.L.F , not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly CHASLANDS COURIER.

Dear Dot,— Since my last letter we have been visited by the Tittell Brune Company. I am sorry I only saw one piece — "L'Aiglan,' — but Mica Brune is by far the lies' actress I have ever seen. However, that is not saying mush, for I have not seen a really great actress yet. I have heard that authorities on such matters say that, next to Madame Sara Bernhardt, she is the greatest actress that has ever visited the colonies. I think, too, that some of the members of the company acted delightfully. Of course lam no judge, and maybe I was a little prejudiced because I know some of them, and one does not criticise one's friends as one would strangers. Of the play itself I shall not say anything, foa: you ha^e, I suppose, seen it too, and if not you will have heard enough about it. West's Pictures and the Brescians were here for four nights. I saw two performances, and J enjoyed them immensely. Dot, among all your correspondents are there none who live in or around Napier? I have often looked at the boys and girls who stand in groups at show grounds and other public places, but as I have never yet detected a badge I do not wear mine With best wishes tc younself and all L.F.,— Yours truly, MY LADY MOLLY. [Yes, I saw Miss Tittell Brune, and she certainly is a very talented actress, and most of the plays were delightful. There were several D.L.F. in Napier at one time, dear, but none of them have written for some considerable time. However, you may meet one or two some day when you least exuect it. — DOT.] Dear Dot,— l have been away staying a+ mv aunt's place for two or three weeks, and 1 had a vejy pleasant holiday with my friends. A very serious accident, attended by fatal results, occurred the other day down our way. A flaxmiller named Cummings got his arm "in the scutcher, and had it torn off just a little above the elbow. He was taken to the hospital, where, I am sorry to say, he died a day or so afterwards. The farmers down our way are getting all their ground ready for cropping as soon as they can. With love to all the L.F , not forgetting your own self and the editor, — Yours truly, ACTOR. Dear Dot, — Th-ere was a wedding up here on July 12, at the residence of Mr Bell, Timaru Station, when Miss Christina Jane Bell was married to Mr Samusl William Edward John. The Rev. W. H. Dyer, from Pembroke, performed the ceiemony in the open air. Mr Charles Harvey, from Hawea, acted as "best man," and Miss Jean Bell (the bride's sister) acted as bridesmaid. TKa bride's dress was

; of a very pretty blue cashmere, and she wore a veil wuh orange blossoms. After the cere- ■■ mony was over the people made their way to ; the dining room, where the table was filled four times. During the evening songs were : sung and recitations given, and dancing was kept \\~p till morning. Mrs Dyer took several photos of the guests, also of Mr and Mrs Bell . and the bride and bridegroom. My sister, my j brother, Rcsabelle, and myself were at it, and J we enjoyed ourselves immensely. We arrived j hemo next day at about 10.30 a.m., tired and sleepy, but well pleased with our night's j entertainment. With love to Maude. Ivy Green, Meta Rose, Pansy. Dot, and the editor, I --Yours truly, "QUEEN TOTTIE. | Dear Dot. — I drive to school, as we live five I miles away from it and it is too far to w&ik. I My eldest sister is going to get married in a month or two, and when the wedding takes place I shall give you an account of it. The Presbyterian ministei, Mr Dyer, died very suddenly at Tarras a short time ago. He had ! gone there to hold service, but took ill and ! died from hasmorrhage of the lungs two days | afterwards. He was buried in the Pembroke ; cemetery. He will be long remembered by all ' of us, as he gave an address at our picnic, and Mrs Dyer gave out the prizes. Much sympathy is felt for Mrs Dyer in her sad brreivernent. With love to Dot and the editor.— Yours truly. THE KING OF THE CASTLE. Dear Dot, — I am going back to school again row, but for a while the river' was m flood, j and we could not get over, a.s we go across in ! a boat. We are having very cold weather just i now, it being frosty in the mornings. We have not had much snow this winter, however. We often s-end the Witness Home to England to my cousins, and they are going to write to jou some time. I was in Alexandra last week, i and the road was very mucky and dirty. It was very cold going in before the sun got up, but when we were coming back it was nice and warm, and we had a pleasant drive home. At times we drive to Oniak&u, and I often see Indian Chief up there at the railway station. We live about 12 miles from Omakou j and about six miles from Alexandra. I am I going to another school since I last wrote. I There aio a few D.L F. going t this school, but I only know the names of one or two of them as yet. I have a sister living in Australia, and she has been over heie for a holiday lately. She- is in the Salvation Army, and as she had to be back for the General's meetings she could only get six weeks' furlough, so we could not see much of her, as she had to stay i with my sister at the Taieri as well. We had I j a good time with her while she was here, and ' were very sorry when the time came for her to go away. One of my sisters is down at the Taieri for a holiday just now. I have not been down to Dunedin for a long time, but I might be down at Christmas time. I have a sister down at Balclutha. I have also a sister over in Victoria, and she is to bs married some time this month. We are doing up our i gardens again. Last year we all liad gardens, I and mother and father were going to give us I a prize for the best one ; but at the end of j the year there was no particular one better j than another, so we each got a prize. I am ! going tc try to grow peanuts this year. I I have grown them before, but the fowls ate J them down. Do you think they would grow, I Dot? I have not grown many seeds yet, but | I shall soon have some planted. With love ! to all the D.L.F., yourself, and the editor, — j Yours truly, PERTHSHIRE, j [I am not quite sure sis to whether it is hot enough to grow peanuts in your district, Perthshire ; still it would be interesting to try. You will require a sandy soil and a warm aspect.— DOT.] Dear Dot, — We have had fair weather up ' here lately, but there have been some heavy j i showers to-iij^ht. The school is about 250 yards ' ' fiom our place, and is attended by about 60 I children. Behind the school is the garden, j in which wo are going to plant potatoes, • onions, beans, and other vegetables. It is a , square piece of ground 25 yards square, and is j I fenced with wire netting. I have four sisters ! . and one brother, all of whom have left school ' ! except one, who is in the Second Standard, j I was down at Dunedia on the Ist of August, | and enjoyed myself very much. I went down to tha. wharf .and saw two steamers — the In"v ereargill and the Marn^oSi — leave. This distiict is a farming one, and is blesoed with good roads. Farther to the west of the district is a chain of hills on the sides of which. ; is the Warepa Bush, which at one time was j very pretty. With lova to all the L.F., — Yours tuily, R. T. S. ! Dear Dot, —l have come here for a few j months' hob day. and am staying with one of i my aunts, but I am going home again soon, i There are no other D.L.F. at the place where I am now. There have been some terrible floods heis lately, the weather having beer ! something awful. I have to walk a mile and | I a-half to school e\ orj morning, and it makes I me feel veiy tired when I am coming home. There is to be a concert heie soon, and some of the school children are going to be in it. I think it will be a great success, and especially as it is in aid of the band. There is | a lady here who takes a great interest in tha ! D.L.F. Page. With love to you and all the : L.F., not forgetting the editor. — Yours truly, | BUSTER BROWN." Dear Dot, — Your most interesting page has been the means of bringing much happiness to those who bave been so fortunate as to j come in contact with it. How quickly time j flies, and yet what a great deal can happen j in just six months! During the last six months some of our most appreciated writers have retired. It seems a pity. Yet week after week your, page is crowded with nice, lively, interesting letters, which goes to show that irterest in D.L.F. matters is by no means decreasing How mysterious Quago is arous ing the curiosity of our little folk ! His notes are most enjoyable. Where have The Croakc-is got to at all, Dot ? We never hear from them now. Cheer up, Croakeis — the more the merrier! That great event the social is over, and nas. as all L.F. affans are, i areat success. How sorry I was I could not gei to it! But vve can't all be there, can we, Dot 9 However, our D.L F. boy Cornisn was dov,n to it, and it is a consolation to know that at least one out of our three Lawience D.L.F took part in it. Cornish gave us all the news and particulars about the sjsial, | and he seems to have had a glorious time j airong the Dunedin L.F. during show time. | I was glad to see so many had contributed to Special Subject Week. It is a change from the ordinaiy letters, and I rather enjoyed the tales. We are having most beaiiti ful weather here just now. Winter is quietly slipping by. Truly we had a good winter — in iact, the best we have had in the memory ot the oldest inhabitant. The roads are ' simply lovely, and biking is in full swing on^e more. A railway hue is in time to be constructed from Lawrence to Roxburgh, and no doubt it is a- great necessity, as the ; main road to Roxburgh in winter is very bad. Several other lines were proposed to ' Roxburgh, but the Lawrence line was pre- ' ferred, it being the cheapest and best in eveiy way, as the country is mo&tly level, ' and there is only one tunnel' on the whole , route. The land, too, will be more valuable, : and the up-countiv farmers will have a more convergent way of sending their produce to market^ At present there are^ a. number of ;

waggoners employed, and tho coach which' carries the mail and passengers luns to and fro\ daily; but when the railway comes all such Iraffio will cease. A creamery is tho next thing which is to be staited here, aivt when it gets under way our little town of

Lawrence will be on a par with the best of

them. A Eoeial that we had looked forward to with interest came off on Friday last — viz..

a fancy dress ball given by the young ladies. We were fortunate in getting a most beauh-

ful evening, and an ideal one for dancing, and this gave people living at a distance a chance to attend. The hall was tastefully decorated for the occasion with eveigrecns,, and presented a pleasing appearance to tha eye. The energetic committee had spared :io p'ams to have every arrangement as complete as possible. That their efforts were appreciated thoroughly was evidenced by the large attendance, fully 60 couples taking part m the grand march, which was led off at halfpast 8, and was a very pleasing sight. The fancy dresses cau=:sd a good deal of excitement. I shall not "e;o into details in connection with the dre=S3S — suffice it to say that everyone looked, at his or her best; but I must not forget to mention that anicng the audience were two clowns, and they were well fitted for their respective places, as they kept' us laughing all night with their funny antics and comical sayings. As for the supper, lfc was all that could b3 desired, and was done full justice to. The floor was in lovely order, and dancing was kept up merrily till the small hours, when all joined hands and sa-ng "Auld lang syne," and then threa cheers were given for the ladies, and so it ended — all agreeing that the young ladies' ball for 1905 was a decided success. With best wishes for the success of our club and the dear old psge, and with best love to all our L.F. and our patient Dot and the kind editor,— -Yours truly, PRISCILLA.

Dear Dot, — I have left school, and am not sorry, for it was not very nice to be shut up in a pokey little house. Our school was burnt; down, and we were all very sorry. We have been having splendid weather lately, although, it is supposed to be winter. We are milking four cows just now. I milk two, and I do not like it I am just trying to learn to cook, and I can tell you my brothers and sisters are teasing me fearfully, which I do not think at all fpir, do you, Dot? However, an old proverb says, "It's always fair when it is not raining," so I suppose I shall just have to be content to be teased. I am housekeeping just now. and I like it exceedingly. 1 have been for a holiday to a township about 10 miles from where we liv-e. I started about half-past 4, and got to my destination a little after 8; and I w?.i not sorry, for I waa toiTibly cold, but it wasn't so bad coming home. With love to all the little folk, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly, IMPUDENCE.

Dear Dot, — We are having a week's holiday now, and Little Bright Eyes is staying with, me. I have to walk about three miles to school. The dams would bear a while ago, but they will not bear now. We had some fun at school when the snow was lying on the ground We live about two miles and a-half out of the township. The place I live in i.s terribly rugged. It is not safe without a hght at night, if it is very dark, fox fear you should tumble down some face. Little Bright Eyes and I went down to the river to gather wood, and we had fine fun down, there playing at the edge of the water and in the sand. I shall have to go down to-morrow for some more wood. — Yours truly, THE QUEEN OF THE ACORNS.

Dear Dot,— What lovely weather we hare had iip this way; in fact, there has practically been no winter dt all. I was at a social on Friday niglii, and didn't I enjoy inyself l | There was one piece in particular which was. very good, but which would take too long to describe. There were quite a number of L.F. at it. "W-e are going to a birthday party to-night. It is to be hoped it will keep fine, j as wo all have our hearts set on going. j Veronica, Princess Charlotte, Goldspur, and j same more L.F. will be there also. I see , Irene has left S. row and is back at her ! home in TVaitahuna. Veronica will feel very lonely now she is gone. No doubt Irene was not sorry to leave, a.s it was a very quiet place. I was out at Veronica's place for two or three days about a fortnight ago. I enjoyed myself very well, the only thing I , missed being the tram. It passes quite closo j to our place, so that 1 thought it very quiet j without the train rattling by. My little sister j is always talking about you, Dot. She says | she is wilting to your page whenever she. ' gets the pen m her hand. She has a N.D.P., too. AVith fondest love to Lady Stair, Princess Charlotte, the editor, and not. forgetting yourself, — Yours truly, LYNDA. Dear Dot,— For a time I quite lost interest in D.L.F. matters, owing to all my fnenda resigning or elsa shifting from here, but now that that active member Lady Stair is in our vicinity my interest has greatly revived When we get together we talk D.L.F. by the yard. She is a great enthusiast, Dot, a.nd such a pleasant girl. I only got acquainted with her a few months ago, through the D.L.F. badge, but we feel as if we'd known each other all our lives— at least I do. She had Queer Fellow up seeing her a while back. Spring has come at last, with its budding trees and springing plants. lam glad winter is over, because this is a most disagreeable place in winter— altogether in the backblocks, among the hills. I have just finished reading a splendid book entitled "Maitland of Laurieston," by Annie Swan. I enjoyed id "immensely," as the saying is. There is to be a bachelors' ball here shortly, and if all goes well I hope to be at it. There is also to be a concert and dance on September 8, in aid of our new hall. For a small district like this we have a grand hall. With love lo Lady Stair, Ahunri, Broncho Bill, Jeaunie Dear, Vidocq, the editor, and youiself Yours tr "iy, GIPSY NELL [The address you a&k for is "Lee Flat Ststion, Traquair," Gipsy Nell.— DOT.] Dear Dot,— We left, Wellington late on the Saturday night, nmid a very rou<*h sea, ihe spray washing the deck. Next chy, beinsj Sunday, was vary quiet, as most of tho passengers were either sick or leading I spent tho day reading m a deck-chair p.,h! thinking of my chums in New Zealand going to church. It seemed funny for there to be no church service. On the following three days we had lovely weather, like sini.mer. Various games were played -on deck, and the evening we had a. little ringing. On Wednesday night v.-c had a grand concert in. the saloon — soiigs. niu-if, bagpipes, and the ship's band. 2\~ext momiiig at 2 o'clock we entered Sydney Hc.icU. 1 got up early, and the view was lovely All the hills, bays, islands, whnives, hou=os, streets, etc , wera lighted up with ga= or electricity. The moon shone overhead, and the smooth, rippling water made it a beautiful scene. We took an hour coming up the harbour. All was ro auiet and peacefu l , cvciybody being in th© land of Nod. Very few of the passengers weie awake. After anchoiing the mails wera taken off the boat and placed in vans, to be delivered into the post offices. About 3 o'clock everyor.e on board prepared for leaving and porteis, drays, and so forth began to arrive. Then we had a nice wait to get all our lugage, as here you have to get passes and take all your parcels to be msnected by

Hio<- Customs officer. There are policemen ] standing at the great iron gates, whom you j cannot pass without your checks. New Zea- ! land is a far freer country than here. All j the shipping companies have their own ■wharves and sheds, the latter being very large. All around you see wharves, which are crowded with, vessels of all descriptions — ferry boats, ships, launches, and steamers,, and men-of-war are anchored down the centra .of the harbour. On leaving the Customs we made our way towa-rds town, took a car, and soon reached home after a 20-minutes' ride in the electric cars — which, seem regular switchbacks, as they jump up end down hill something dreadful, at a terrible pace. I "was tired, and glad to get tt little peaoe. Where I live is very quiet — -*bout a mile or so out of town. I have been iere six weeks to-day: 1 time flies. I know my "way about town pretty well, as I am often in during the week. It is a. big city, Sydney— the shops larger than any in Dunedin, some being eight storeys high, Anthony Hordern's, Lassetter's, Mark Foy's, and Grace Bros.' being tfcs largest. The streets are not •wide, and the cars run in twos, one lot after N another/ and you have to be very smart in crossing, or you- will get run over. The j • Victoria Markets are very nice. There are many arcades, markets, and so fcrth off ecmie of the big streets. Pitt street is one of the most fashionable. The Gardens are very beautiful, alongside the Say. The pairks and domains 'are "not much to see, except for the . many statues ereeced- in memory of famous- - people;' I- Lwaß"throughL waß" through the Museum one day, ■ but'^l thought -oiir' Dunedin one every bit as good. Some" day I , shall visit the Zoo,' for I like- live 'animals better than stuffed one 3 I had a. look at the Darlinghurst Gaol from , - the! "road.- It is a very curious one — no win-dows-on the "sides, ■■ but skylights, on which stand armed warders', watching the prisoners beneath. • A criminal's life must be terrible. From, the courthouse'' he is taken in a large black >van, called " "Black Maria," to his doom. " Drunken .women are a very common sight here. A large new railway station is ■being built close to the old one. Here you are locked in your railway carriage after you deliver your tickete. The carriages are like boxes or small cabs, and each train, has its own platform. I suppose the Dunedin Railway Station won't lie long before it is competed. .. . Now I think I shall change the subject , and say something on D.L.F. matters! -I see by the Witness that T. D. A. sided with Awkward Ned for oncer Times have changed, I, think. I hopß that the club is still keeping '.up in members. I was present four or five nights before I left New Zealand. Boy ihad a very good letter in the Witness lately. He comes from my birthplace, Arrowtown. I wonder if there are any more L.F. there, as if 'so I should like their autographs. Anthea had a letter in about her Dunedin ■trip. ' I am 'glad she enjoyed herself, a.s it was her first town trip. I wonder what- she -would say if she saw Sydney.- I must thank /Bluebell and the other L.F. who sent ma j letters. I -shall 'answer them all soon, for I j like^the" New Zealand news. There is a column in' one of the Sydney papers by Uncle Tom. 1 The letters are very childish. something - like this : — "Dear Uncle Tom, — I hajve' » cat; give me a name for it. I am , eight, .and-' go' jto^ school," , and so on. That style once' adopted, by a, few L.F.about'six years, ago, -but I t dislike it very -muchr there is" not much' sense in it. An■otlier Jstylc, was : -VGive me/ a cure for toothache."- The ?DI,P." Page in' the Witness if xne T of the-bsst'-I have ever 'known. X P -wonder '..if "toy. L.F. 'knows Rough address? 'I. believe she' lives in New/ South 'Wales. Just .while I write ,the joy bells are pealing in St. Mary^ Cathedral, .up" the street.- With love and- irest wishes 'to Dot, the editor, Bliiehell- IV, Anthea,^ Pearl Queen. Boy, Black .Watch, Didn't You Knew"! Go Horn, and all the rest ', of the D.L.F.,— Yours truly, THE SHEPHERDESS'S FAIRY. [Rough Rider's aauress used to be "Miss Gertrude .Greenaway, Felton, Cambooya, > Queensland," T. S. F. I have not heard of hex having moved to Sydney: but if she has, no doubt -a letter, if sent to the address given, would be forwarded on to her. — DOT.] * —Dreams: ll.— At midnight, while the moon was shining, I saw a band so bright and gay ; All day I had. been sadly pining, •But now those thoughts had flown away. I^saw King and Hermit hand. in hand; The" Queen stooped to kiss the Loss ; The" Duke, the proudest of cur band, . ' - Knelt to let the Shepherd pass. The Fairy showered J. 0. Y. upon the Bleeding Heart; The Little Angel wafted secret bonds of love ; ■* The Sunbeam strove to act a better part, And showered bright rays from the realms above. The Soldier with, the Prince was talking - Of ' the\Black Watch aaid its M.E.R.1.T.5. ; ThesPcincess and the Lad were walking, ",With gay and lively spirits. I"or once the Dragon's fiery spirit slept, His .whole, form wrapped in dreams ; Th.c- L Wild' Wave's" current no more swept, "'But trickled forth in 'tiny sfoeaans. The'Cook'arM Housemaid from their toil had : vanished — No trace of work or sorrow could be seen; They from "their minds liad all cares banished, ' , And now were walking with the Queen. I saw 1 the Bramble with the Ivy intertwining ; The Rose nursed the sweet Forget-me-not ; I saw the Daisy anci the Violet there re dining Bound the Carnation's tender, snowy cot The Rata and the Fuchsia hovered o'er them, Drooped their fairy heads with grief; The Fpxglove and the Bluebell rose before them, Stealing kisses from our Daffodil chief. (To be continued.) A MOTHER'S LASS. Dear Dot,— Two months have passed away since I last penned you a. few lines, so X thought I would write niorej.for I shall not be able to write many mor© letters to you. I feel that dreaded! retiring «g& coming near. But I must not grumble; I have had my time as a D.L.F.» and 1 a very happy time it 1 has been, too. If all the l/.F. have as good a time a£ I have had they will have nothing to grumble about — something rather to boast about, I think; for just through being t* D.L.F. I have made friends true and kind whom I may well be proud of, and thank •Dot « thousand times — aye, more, for I thank h&- with -ail my heart. Dreary old winter has~left us for another year, and now we are ifenjoying the glories of spring. The days are anucfn. warmer and longer^ for although this is but' the beginning of spring, the birds are jfcttsy with their "nests, and the grass al;d Bowers are snooting forth their tender shoots fco -welcome the warm sunshiny days with Sowers and green blades, bora anew eac.h •spring. The birds are now increasing in numbers each day, and their songs are far tweeter than when divary winter reigned o'er the land,. During the midwinter holidays I .Visited Greymouth, Brunnerton, and Auaura-; 'indeed, I may say. I spent the jrlifil's fil my.

holidays (which consisted of two weeks) away from home. I had a most enjoyable time, for I was in good trim for a holiday, and when one seeks pleasure with an. open mind they enjoy all they get. I left home on Saturday, July 1, and returned on the 15th. On the Sunday afternoon I went for a walk down to the tip-head and along the shore. Both Sundays my cousin and I walked by the breakers' edge. Oh! to bo roaming along tho shore is a pleasure I dearly love. To walk on the beach and see the giant waves dashing up along the shore, and the sun sinking, as it were, into the sea, with all the glories of sunset, is indeed a pleasure. I love the roar of the ocean, and I admire the snovry flakes of foam where the breakers dash against the rocks. But somehow or other, -.vhen you are long by the sea you grow sad — at least I know I do; for, although I greatly enjoy the sea, a thought of how powerful the ocean seems and of how many poor souls have been engulphed in its clasp makes one reflect on sad memories. How many longing eyes and hearts have watched and prayed for loved ones who fell into its mighty grasp! It is so waxm down near the rolling breakers that when you leave the Beach you begin to feel cold. As we strolled along the sandy shore I could not help recalling tiie following verse, which I learnt long ago, when I used to go to school. It just expressed my feelings:— TLere is a pleasure in the pathless woods, There is a rapture on the lonely shore, There is society, wliere none intrudes, By the deep sea, and music in/ its rear. I love not man the less, but Nature more,

■ Froni these our interviews, in which I steal From all I may be^or hare been before, To mingle with the universe, and feel What I can ne'er expresG, yet cannot all conceal. ?', did' enjoy the two afternoons I spent, by lie sea, and the 'memory of those pretty sunsets and my- walks along the brink of th& sailor's grave will remain as sweet memories to me. On the second Sunday, when we were coming back from the beach, we called at the hospital to 'see an oid friend of ours who has been there now for years. He was very pleased to see us, and spoke very kindly U> us. We bad a talk abctit o!d friends and old times, when, just as my supply of news was exhausted, the tea bell rang, and we bade him good-bye and left him. I alßo went to two dances while I was in town, and I can tell you I did enjoy, them, for there's none so fond of a good hop as me. I went up to Bnmnerton on Tuesday evening, and returned to G-reymouth the next evening. While I was in Brunnerton I visited tho Brunner and Tyneside mines, the church, the school, and the principal places of note. I also saw the place where the Cossgrovee were killed by the dreadful slip of the 25th of May of last year. I felt a sad thought strike me as I gazed on the spot where those little children met their death, and what damage a small bit of a land-slide can do. When I was passing through the Brunner mine I felt funny too, for I thought of the poor mea who were suffocated there not so very many years ago. What heartrending scenes were witnessed at the mouth of that very coal mine when the bodies of husbands, fathers, brothers, and lovere were brought .out! There is a lovely monument in the Stillwater cemetery erected to- those who perished in that awful explosion. At places subh as these one -cannot help having an attack of the megriuis, for old scenes of past sorrow, like those of joy, re-turn-when's.one visits places where they were enacted. I went one day to a poultry chow while. -I was in Grey mouth, but I did not care very much for it. There was an art union in connection with the show, but I did not win anything, it is just hick, I think, and it must not be ill luck, but rather good luck, when you win a prize. I was in Ahaura on my journey ' home, and I only saw Elsinore, L.F. I had quite a little yarn with her, saw all her auto 3., D.L.F. trophies, anci such like. She is euch >a dear little comrade, too, and she and I talked nothing else but D.L.F. all the time I was there. When I was going to Brunnerton I chanced to be a fellow passenper with Biddy O'Toole and Elsinore's mother. I felt sorry to have to part from them at Brunnerton, for Biddy O'Toole and. I and. the kind mother of Elsinore talked on the D.L.F. Page and all the doings of the cltibbites and such like until I left them. I had the pleasure of seeing Nuggety Bob and Bramble one day in Greymoutb, and we exchanged smiles (Witness ones. I mean), for I was in a hurry, and then, I can tell you, the smile was useful. When I came to Atarau I had a chat with Nuggoty Bob, and I bade her good-bye after wishing her prosperity, bon voyage, and a good time at the club meetings when she reaches Duneclin. What ho, Scribbler! How very quiet you are! You thought we would not discover you, but I am now quite sure you know we know you. Hurry up and write again, and don't put us off this time. Do you like "pit," Dot? It's a nice game for a lonely place like this. No one can hear you, no matter how loud/ you yell, for we are not troubled with many neighbours. I am writing you this letter under difficulties, as some friends have called, and to pass away the time tibey have introduced tne game of pit. They are playing it in the next room to me, so don't be surprised if you find me putting down "Two — two for sale — three for sale," and such like, as the noise they are making would deafen anyone. Special Subject Week was an immense success, I see; so was the great social. Well done, ye L.F. ! You will soon be as well known throughout the Empire as our Premier, eh. Dot? I am now going to oease, as I think I have said quite enough for once. So, good-bye, dearest Queen Dot, until I write again. With fondest love* to Bogue 11, Scribbler, Cooee, and Mountain Rambler; and to my other correspondents everywhere I offer my love in double quantity, for their names are too numerous to mention, and that's far better, is it not? So, dear Dot, take 3, share too for yourself and. Mr Editor, and believe me to be — Yours truly, PAFAROA.

[Everyone will indeed be sorry to learn that Paparoa is nearing retiring age. I hope, however, it is still some months off. Auto, cards are obtainable from Harry, chairman D.L.F. Literaxy and Debating Club, Box 176, P. 0., Duneditij dear, the price being 9d per 25.— DOT.] D.ear Dot, — Since las£ writing to you I have iiad another short trip to Balclutha — this time to see the carnival which was held in aid of the band. It was open for fou.r days, beginning on Wednesday and ending on Saturday night, when the goods which were left over were sold by auction. My brother and I went up on Friday in the morning train, and after doing some messages in the afternoon we went to the carnival at night. Arriving there in good time, we got a capital place, from which we could easily see through the hall. I liked the poster march and th/e maypole dance exceedingly well, but I dicln't care much for the tambourine (frill, as it waa rather slow for my fancy. These being over, we made our way to the bran-tubs, and after having gome "dips" we paraded through the hall till it was time to leave. Saturday afternoon found us again at the hall, but we were outside most of the tim«, at the "Jißrunted spring/-' sWiL waa. * SK^at &tteaj>

tion. On Saturday night we boarded the train for home. There are a good many L.F. down here now, and it has been proposed to hold a picnic on November 9, if all goss well. I should like very ranch, to go to Dunedin during the Christina/; holidays, and I hope, if I go, that the L.F. will wear their badges, bo as to give me a chance of meeting them. Do you think the L.F. would let ma attend the L. and D. Club when I &o to town, as I should very much like to do so? I think The Dragon's idea of a bay at the next winter show is a first-class one, and I for one should be only too willing to assist. With love to all the L.F., yourself, and the editor, —Yours truly, . BUSH ROAMER. P.S.— I see by the Witness that Black Watch is at Glenomaru. Would he mind sending me his address, as I don't live very far away. Address: "Biush Roarner, D.L.F., Romahapa." fYes, Bush Roamer, you will receive a hearty welcome at the L. and D. Club meeting, where you will be able to make th-3 acquaintance of all the members. Black Watch will tell you all about it when you make his acquaintance.— DOT.] Dear Dot,— Some of you may wonder how the L.F. in the country manage to fill in time; but I can assure you that country life 1 is just glorious, and personally I would not exchange it for life in any town — no, not evevi \ for our fair Dunedin. v Not that I have any | dislike for Dunedin, but I always think that | one can have far more fun in the country; but I suppose others will have different ideas about it. My sister and I have just been having a musical evening, but of course just to our own liking. I only hope there was nobody eavesdropping. Do you know, Dot, I am afraid some of our D.L.F. are getting unpardomably lazy, or perhaps it may be they are so busy as not to have 'time for a little country bnmpkin, for I applied for a certain auto, about six weeks ago, and was promised it in a. few days; but the days have lengthened into weebs, and still it has not come. However, I am just living in hope, and perhaps I may get it yet. Couldn't you give them a word of instruction, Dot? But this brings me to the end of my page. Love to all the L.F., from — Yours truly, LADY LILIAN. fA promise should never be broken, dear, and it is practically breaking a promise not to fulfil it within reasonable time. Many L.F. ask autos. from prominent members of the club, such as Harry, Awkward Ned, -ST. D. A., Scobie, C. C. M., etc., but it is quite impossible for these to comply with all requests, for were they to do so it would mean a very serious tax on them for stamps. Applications for exchange should be more evenly divided, as plenty of less prominent members would be very pleased to exchange if asked to do so.— DOT.] Dear Dot, — Winter 'has comic and gone, and it has been nothing to complain about. We had dry weather and dry roads, and only two falls of snow to break the monotony. There has baen a good deal of frost, and it will niaka h big diffarence in the working of the ground. There was & good fall of snow la3t night, but it is melting again. The farm work is well advanced, and a few have started sowing. I have been working on the chaffcutter for a week, and found it a decent job so long as there is not much dust. The traction ■engine and bagger belonged to MiGibson, of Ashley Downs, but the driver and steerer bought it, and are Aunning it "on their own." They cut 80 tens in five days, and had some long shifts, too. An ambulance class has been started in Clinton, arjd a good j number attend. Dr Stenhouse, of Balclutha, gives the lessons, aaid he is> a very good j instructor. He comes by train, and cycles back after 10 p.m., when the class is over. The Clinton L.F. are writing some good letters now, and seem to be increasing weekly. I have been learning to pllay pit lately, and I found it pretty lively. It seems to be all the go just now; but I suppose it will soon die out, like other games have done. There have b&en some very interesting letters in the page lately. Jessica's last letter did not seem very reassuring, and her letters will be greatly missed if she does not write many more. With kind regards to all friends, — Yours truly, BRIDE'S BLOSSOM. Dear Dot, — I have been at Balclutha to the band carnival since last writing, and enjoyed myself very well. The band* played outside for a while, and when it had finished playing the men went inside and looked after some of the stalls and the "haunted swing." I had two "dips" in the bran-tubs, and got the same thing each time. We had a fall of snow the other day, but the snow did not lie on the ground very long. We have a few flowers oui just now, chiefly violets and primroses. We are playing football at school now, and the girls are playing rounders. With love to all the L.F., yourself, aaid the editor,— Yours truly, COLUMBUS. !

Dear Dot, — We are having lovely weather up in this district. Every day I rise to see nothing but fires; sometimes you can see hardly any distance for smoke. The last time I wrote to you, Dot. I was learning to ride, and now I am learning to drive, and so is my sister. WeLl, our first attempt was not too bad. Some hay was wanted to feed the cows, so I got the horse into the stable and gave it some chaff to eat while I went and got my sister to come and help me to Harness it up. We put on the harness all wrong at first, and through my lack of experience I put the hames on upside down. Oh, my! didn't my sister make fun of me! Anyway we got the horse yoked up in time and went for three loads of hay. Our first load was so small that we could hardly see it, and the last load we all sat on the top to keep it from falling off. So what do you think of our first attempt to learn to drive? The school children have started school again. Lady Lilystone has a good distance to go to school. She must feel it in the cold mornings. I have four brothers, who play football, two of them being in the Cambrians team, one in St. Bathans, and one in Raiifuiiy. With love to Lady Lilystone, Lady de Loris, etc., to Mr Editor, and not forgetting yourself, Dot,— Yours truly, H. I. M. Dear Dot, — We have had a lovely winter so far, but to-day it has become very stormy. Some of the farmers round here have begun sowing their grain. There are not many D.L.F. about her© just now. How nice it must be to live in Dunedin and to go to all tho D.L.F. Olub's meetings and socials. I was away for a holiday a few weeks ago, but I did not meet any D.L.F, Although I looked at the hat of everybody I met, to my disappointment. I did not see a single badge. As I was looking over a group of D.L.F. in a- Witness » short time ago I was surprised to see a girl with a norn de plume the same as mine; iso, Dot, I ask you to please put "II" after the one who deserves it ; but I hope it will not be mine, as I do not like numbers after my name. I chose this one as I thought there was no other D,L.F. of the same namo, but it is li.ke my luck again. The criticisms are becoming numerous now, Dot, are they not? They are certainly putting a little bit more life into the page. It was very interesting to read the letters in Emmeline's Cosy Corner Club on "How to Spend £1,000,000." My opinion is, Dot, that I am happier than if I had that huge sum, for I should ba 2YP.rj.ying JkS Jo iww 7. should, spend it. With

very best love to Smuggler, Amanda, Hilda, Texas Jack, -and all tho rest of the band, not forgetting yourself and the editor, — Yours truly, EVANGELINE 111.

[I am afraid you will be sadly disappointed to find that not only arc you not "I," but you are not even "II," dear, for my list shows two Evangelinas before you, and I am not sure that there is not one much older than any of you. However, as she is no doubt on the retired list that will not matter.— DOT.]

Dear Dot,—After learning to eat vinegar with a fork I have wakened up to find that ( it is time to write to yoii once more. We are having very funny sort of weather h&re at present. One day it is fine, and the next it is wet. We had snow last night, and of course it was cold to-day, but I soon got over it. I have just been looking at an old Witness, and I found aoiqe good letters in it, and also some indiffepeui ones like my own. Ow! Ow! The Maid of the Glen is sticking hatpins into us. I think she needs someone to stick something into her, so tliat she will understand how it feels, don't you, Dot? I have not been to the Debating Society's meetings for some time now, but I hear that it is getting along all right. The 12th of this month—that is, the Saturday before last, —as I was looking for my brother at the corner of Jackson street and Bast road, a trap stopped with two laclies in it, and* one of them had a D.L.F. badge on; and I was going to speak to her, but I could not muster up courage, enough. I hope if she sees this letter in the Witness her mind will go back to the girl whom she saw looking about in every direction as if she were trying to find : a lost, half-crown.—Yours truly, URSULA.