THE EMPIRE’S CALL.

Otago Witness, Issue 3193, 26 May 1915, Page 53

THE EMPIRE’S CALL.

RECRUITS PASSED AS FIT. The following men have passed the medical examination at the Defence Office; Charles Edward Patey, car conductor, Mornington. _ William James Christie, railway fireman, South Dunedin. Henry Albert Symes, railway porter, Mornington. Roland Seymour, cutter, Dunedin. Robert Kennardi Bayliss, labourer, Dunedin. . .. Peter Alexander M'Laren, railway employee, St. Clair. _ George Robert Ogg, cheesomakcr, sawyers’ Bay. „ Leonard D'Arcy Mitchell, plumber, is.iß. V alley. William Stirling Sutherland, carpenter, Dunedin. . _ Thomas Gourkiy Dick, baker, Dunccun. Harry Wade Harvey, railway employee, Burnside. . Frederick Edward Jackson, tea planter, Dunedin. Charles Wright, machinist, St. Kuda. James Bonn, driver, Dunedin. Arthur Albert Froggatt, metal woikci, Dunedin. Jack Duncan, driver, Duncdm. Frederick George M‘Lc-an, labourer, ot. Hilda. Peter Neill, optician. Mornington. Thomas William Grainger, carpenter, Dunedin. , . William Sloan, tanner. Green Island. Neil MacCallum Morrison, storeman, Mornington. . , , ~ Reuben McCarthy Newman, clerk. DanG Reader Wilfred Steel, stock agent, DunCd ß.‘ IT. Sloan, cleric, Port Chalmers. William Malonev. boilermaker, St. Kuoa. Dennis Moore, range fitter, Ravonabourne. , , J E. J. Bovno, labourer, Dunedin. W E. A- Cushion, labourer, Duncom. J. E. M‘Nulty, railway porter, fcoutn Dunedin. Charles Dyer, fireman, Cavcrsham. George M." Currie, labourer, Caversnam. Walter Hadlee, letter carrier, Dunedin. John Bevin, labourer, Kaikorai. . William Johnstone, farm labourer, Wairongoa. . James E. Hancock, miner, Dunedin. Henry F. Furscott, miner, Dunedin. Charles Bradfiold, manager, Dunedin. Arthur Harlvind, dentist, Dunedin. Hugh E. Harvey, clerk, St. Hilda. Donald I. MTvcllar, railway porter, Dunedin. Arthur R. Gould, shepherd, Dunedin. James Adam, painter, Dunedin. David T. Wright, salesman, Dunedin. Thomas A. M. Anderson, linesman, Dunedin. . Frederick W. Parsons, painter, Dunedin. Robert Adamson, painter, Dunedin. Andrew J. Hudson, labourer, Port Chalmers.

Stanley S. Stephens, clerk, Dunedin. John Thomas Adams, engineer, Dunedin. Fred Taylor, seaman, Dunedin. Hugh D. Asquith, steward, Dunedin. Du guild Paterson, clerk, Dunedin. John B. A. Smith., metal worker, Dunedin. Victor J. Bchnumar.n, clerk, St. Clair. Hugh Davis, farm hand, Merton. James Clayton, railway cleaner,' South Dunedin. Richard D. Hamilton, motor mechanic. Port Chalmers. Henry M. Wilde, motor mechanic, Henley. Leonard J. Glastonbury, labourer, Dunedin. John P. Whelan, labourer, Highcliff. Frank D. Barron, station hand, Kew. David E. Tyler, insurance agent, Mornington. Arthur IT. D. Macdougal, clerk, Roslyn. Percy Cosgrove, shop assistant, Abbotsford. MORE MEN NEEDED. ' CALL UPON UNMARRIED. STIRRING APPEALS. WELLINGTON, May 24. For the first time since the beginning of the war Ministers have felt it incumbent upon them to say now that recruiting is not quite satisfactory. In an open-air address on Sunday afternoon the Prime Minister made a strong appeal to young men to enlist, and to-day the Hon. J. Allan (Minister for Defence) made another appeal in a statement made to a reporter. “ Recruiting for the infantry is not satisfactory,” said Mr Allen. “ Recruiting for all other branches of the force —mounted infantry, artillery, and Engineers—is quite satisfactory; but for the two extra battalions of infantry and for the Seventh Reinforcements it is not nearly so satisfactory. The one district that has excelled itself is Wellington, which has provided more than its quota for those new battalions and the Seventh Reinforcements bv something like 400 men. Auckland, on May 15 last, was short of its quota by from 400 to 450 men, and I have heard nothing of the Auckland enrolments since that date. It is possible that the deficiency has been made up. If not, then I hope Auckland will set to work to do its duty. Canterbury was short on May 15 my from 450 to 500. Otago, on the same dale, was 650 men short, but since May 15 they have raised some 210 men. They are therefore still short, and if Otago and” these other districts cannot make up their quota the men will have to be provided by Wellington or some other place having an excess. I am sure all the districts real iso that the country and the Empire arc relying upon them, and I hope those who are interested in recruiting will see that all those who ought to enlist do so, especially all married men without families. “ What do you say to the duty of a married man?” Mr Allen was asked. “As to tho duty of a married man,” replied Mr Alien, “ it must be for himself to decide. H he possibly can go, I think the urgency is so great, now that even a married man must make sacrifices for tho defence of tho Empire, which means that lie should remember the defence of his own home, his wife, and his children. In the case of a married man some provision is made for his widow in tho event of his death, and. as I have promised. I am going to ask Parliament to improve that for non-

NEW ZEALAND’S RESPONSE.

j commissioned officers and privates. If pos- ' sible, we don’t want to alter the regulations, with regard to age and height, but wo do want these extra men. The two now battalions are coming- to Trend ham about May 59, and the Seventh Reinforcements on I June 12. Wo want the men before these dates.” ■ “ There is a most extraordinary discrepancy,” Mr Alien continued, in the numbers rejected as medically unfit in the different centres. I have examined the returns supplied to me. and 1 am so astonished at the • differences that I am having inquiries made | as to the reason the percentage of rejections . varied from 5 per cent, in \\ cllington to 25 1 per cent, in Otago.” APPEAL BY MR MASSEY. At a church parade and demonstration yesterday, at which Mr Massey delivered a ■ patriotic speech, ho made this appeal for men :—ln. olden times the Fiery Cross was sent round to call the Highland elans to battle. The Fiery Cross has been sent round the whole British Empire, and the whole British Empire and the manhood of ! the Empire are donning their uniforms and I taking up their weapons and going out to I fight as soldiers of the King. In our own ; country what has happened? What have wo seen from the bush clearing,, from the sheep station, from the g-umfields, and the mining centres, from the office of the professional man and the merchant, from the water front? Men of all ranks and all classes have come, eager and willing to do their duty. But more men arc wanted, and ; I apnoal to the manhood of th:s country. | More are needed to take the places of those I who have fallen, and to increase the strength ; of the army and so ensure victory and i bring this awful war to a speedy conclusion, i Men are wanted for other reasons—-to strike a blow on account of the outrages with which the press has made us familiar. In the last few* weeks the drowning of helpless women and children, the poisoning of wells and watercourses, the bombardment of defenceless towns; crimes such as wo would not have believed even savages could be guilty of. Vengeance is mine, I will repay. "saith the Lord.” and I have not any doubt that Ho will repay. But it is still our duty as citizens of peace-loving countries to see that those unspeakable outrages —some of which can only be hinted at —are made possible for all times. Men are wanted, because wo realise that wo are out against a cruel and unscrupulous foe—against an enemy whose word is as nothing, whose written pledge is as nothing; only to be observed so long as it -suits tbom to so ; an enemy to whom human life and national honour are as nothing when opposed to German ambition or German supremacy. THE RECRUITING MEETINGS ' LARGE GATHERING IK GARRISON HALL. The Garrison Hall was packed last night when another recruiting meeting was held. . It, was noticeable that the gathering was | composed very largely of ladies. In the i absence of the Mayor (Mr J. J. Clark), who is ipclisposed, the drain was occupied by Colonel Stone ham (chairman of the Recruit- ! The Garr.son Hall was packed cn Friday ing Committee). The chairman and Mr C. E. Statham, M.P., delivered stirring addresses. and 11 men handed nr their names. The Chairman referred to the lists of killed and wounded' that had come to hand lately, and moved a vote of sympathy with , the relatives. The attendance at the recruiting mooting hold in the Oddfellows’ Hall, Caversham, oir Friday, was large, but, unfortunately, 1 there was no response to'the urgent ap- , peals made in speech, and song to join the : colours. The speakers were Mr T. K. Sldey, M.P., wire presided, Mr Mat Bradley, and the Rev. Mr Miller. MEETING AT GREEN ISLAND The recruiting meeting in the Green Island Public Hall on Friday was heralded by the local band, which played lively martial music about the door. Two carloads of speakers and performers arranged for by the Patriotic Committee journeyed out from Dunedin to assist in tiro conduct of the meeting. A large- audience gathered in tire hall, but, strangely enough, it consisted chiefly of women and school children. It looked us though the type of young man for whom the meeting was primarily intended was not prepared to “ face the music,” and took the precaution ! of staying away. The Mayor of Green Island (Mr J. Lindsay) presided, and the platform was gay with flags. Speeches wore delivered by the Mayor, Messrs J. Loudon and J. A. Park, and' three recruits gave in > their names. RALLY AT CROMWELL CROMWELL, May 21. A recruiting rally was held in tiro | Atheneum Hail last night, the proposal : being enthusiastically taken up by the rcai- < dents. The programme comprised musical 1 items and a series of speeches, the speakers i being Messrs A. M. Brodrick (Mayor), i James Horn, Abel, the Rev. Mr Rankin, ! arid Mr J. APDonald (Dunedin). The speakers made stirring references to the demands of tiro Empire, and appealed strongly to all young men to shoulder arms in the . present crisis. The response exceeded local | expectations, as it was not considered that a great many were available. Those who i cninc forward to the platform were Charles I.Swann, Andy Roe, and Douglas _ Vnrcoo I (previously enlisted), and new recruits in the parsons of William Mitchell, John Clark, Cyril Betts, James M'Douald, David Lawrence. and Richard Thomas. To-day two : others have enlisted—Leslie Sibbald and j Francis Duke. At Lowborn to-night ani oilier rally is to bo held. ! The ' Dunedin representative (Mr j M'Donuld) has gone to Alexandra on a | similar mission, and is accompanied by the | Rev. Mr Rankin (Cromwell), who last night j delivered a stirring address to the young men. r lhe Mayor (Mr Brocii’ick) r-s demoting considerable time to the work, aim is assisted by Captain Mackenzie, acting as local r c c r u i t i i > g o ffi c or. MEETING AT ROXBURGH. ROXBURGH, May 21. A very successful recruiting rally -was held here last evening. Despite the short notice

the hall was packed, the attendance exceeding’ that of the meeting for Belgian relief held on Monday, and the greatest enthusiasm prevailed. The Mayor presided, and' associated with him on the platform were the members of the Patriotic Committee and Borough Council.

Rousing recruiting speeches were delivered by the Rev. Messrs Gunn and Benning, and these were interspersed with patriotic songs by local talent and selections by the band. Towards the end of the meeting tiro Rev. Mr Henning, who had fairly captured his audience, appealed to the young men to come forward for enrolment. Within a few minutes several advanced to the platform amidst tiro cheering of the gathering, and their names were taken by Lieutenant Allen. The singing of the National Anthem concluded a highly successful gathering. Those who volunteered arc S. Dunsmuir. J. Dunsmuir. J. E. Bennetts, R. Graham, T. Millard, J. Kitto, A. Jeannette, H. Haugh, R. Benzie. MEETING AT ALEXANDRA. ALEXANDRA, May 22. A monster procession led by Mr C. E. Murphy, duly caparisoned and mounted, preceded a patriotic demonstration in the Alexandra Town Hall on Friday night. There was a largo attendance, and Air E. Marsiin presided in the unavoidable absence of the Mayor. Air C. E. Richards read a stirring letter from, Air J. J. Ramsay, who> was confined to his house with a severe cold, and stirring addresses were delivered by Mr John AT Don aid (ox-Mayor of Dunedin), and the Rev. Mr Rankin, of Cromwell, also by Air Alarshn. The band and the pipers played patriotic airs in the street, end in the hall an orchestra contributed selections, and patriotic songs were sung. An appeal for recruits brought forward 10 young men, and this may bo taken as a record, considering the size of the district, and the number already at the front. As the lads came forward, they were chcored to the echo. Tiro sum of £8 was collected in the hall to go towards socks for the troops. MEDICAL STUDENTS NOW DEBARRED. It has boon decided that no more medical students arc to bo allowed to enlist with the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces. This decis’on has been adopted following on the rule now being enforced at Home, as a measure to counteract- a possible shortage in doctors. As a matter of fact, British students are now being sent home from the front in Franco in order to enable them to complete their studies. NEW ZEALAND MOUNTED INFANTRY. WELLINGTON, May 23. Unfounded reports are circulated by persons nretending knowledge they do not possess, that our mounted infantry have boon sent on from Egypt to France, and that they are fighting in that theatre. It appears to he true that mounted men arc of little use in the Gallipoli campaign, in its present phase, at any rate, but tire mounted men are or. the peninsula fighting as infantry. This much is known with c'srtamty. It is not known with certainty whether all the mounted men have gone, but it may bo assumed that the great bulk_ of the mounted men have crossed the Aleditorrancan. leaving their horses in Egypt. THE MAORI CONTINGENT. REPORTS FROM GENERAL GOBLEY. WELLINGTON, May 20. The Hen. James Allen has received from Major-general Godiey a report dated March 29. The report stated that the Ala or is had been made very comfortable in the camp where they were situated near the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. They appeared to bo pleased with their quarters (this was before the contingent had left Malta). They had tents on the hires of tire Egyptian Army tents, which were the most suitable for the climate there —cold nights and, hot clays. General Godiey was making every •provision for suitable appointments in the camp, and, with the assistance of the Y.M.C.A. ’ representatives, was endeavouring to make their camp more attractive for them than the city. Major Herbert, of the 9th (East Coast) Rifles, had been appointed to their command, in place of Major Peacock, who had been invalided at Aleany. Writing again on April 2, General Godiey said tiro Minister would have heard that the Maoris had been ordered to Malta. After having seen them, ho was very disappointed that they were not g’oing' with the Expeditionary Forces. Pic believed they would have done well. They were leaving for Malta that night. Since their arrival in Egypt they had behaved Cxiraociinarily well, and had earned golden opinions by their appearance, smartness, and general efficiency. Everyone thought well of them. They were sorry they were not going with the New Zealanders. lie had got the High Commissioner and Generals Bivdwooa and Maxwell to go to the camp and see thorn. They had been given a great reception, the Maoris dancing a haka for them. Since theft General Godiey said ho had received the following letter from General Sir J. G. Maxwell.—“ Will you let the Maori Contingent know that, in accordance with wnat I told them yesterday. I have both written and telegraphed to Lord Kitchener tirrrt it is their tic-sire to servo anti light, with tiro Nnv Zealanders. I think they will bo a valuable reinforcement, • don t you?” The Minister states he intends from time to time to communicate to the Maori members matters m connection v.itli the Alaori Contingent. DEATH IN SAMOA. WELLINGTON, May 20. Advice has been received by the defence authorities of the death of Lance-corporal James Lovell, of the Samoan Relief Force, from pleurisy and cardiac complications. Cor nova I Lovell was born in England on June 27, 1874, and served for seven years in, the Ist and 2nd Border Regiment. Tie was a sailor, and prior to the Relief Force was employed by the Union Steam Ship Company. His next-of-kin is his brother, Mr William Lovell, who resides at Calcutta, India. HEALTH BULLETIN. WELLINGTON, May 24. The Administrator of Samoa reports that the health of the garrison troops is good. Captain Roachc, of the Headquarter’s Staff, is convalescent, and the following arc doing well: —Infantry Battalion-Bugler H. G. Roberts, cymphangitis: Private T. G. Risk, colitis; Private G. F. Dunlop, ulcerated leg;

Private W. Struthers. injury to back; Private V, r . E. C. Ingram, tonsilitis. HORSES FOR REMOUNTS. WELLINGTON, May 15. The buyers of horses for the reinforcements are not meeting with any clifiicultv in procuring suitable animals at very fair prices: indeed, the only complaint made by sellers js .that the Government will not buy enough horses. Probably the anxiety on the part of owners to get rid of any spare horses is in great measure due to the present high prices of fodder. With the next draft 1100 horses will be shipped. The numbers with each draft vary according to the accommodation of the ships, but the monthly percentage is kept up. A few days ago a. farmer at Rakaia—Mr William Harrison — presented the Defence authorities with a very tine artillery horse. SECOND STATIONARY HOSPITAL. OFFICERS SELECTED. WELLINGTON, May 19. Tire No. 2 stationary hospital, which Now Zealand recently contracted to send to the front, is now being organised at Trcntham, and judging by the qualifications of the officers selected the staff should, like that of the No. 1 stationary hospital, prove a credit to the- dominion. The hospital, though officially designated a '‘stationary” one, is virtually a mobile joint, taking tho place of tho olyl so-called ‘‘field hospitals” used in previous campaigns, and will bo close up to tho front, or in other words, but one remove from the firing line. Tho hospital will consist of 200 beds, with no nurses. The personnel comprises eight officers (one lieutenant-colonel, two majors, four captains or subalterns, and one quartermaster), one warrant officer, eight-sergeants, one bugler, and 76 rank and iiio. The officers who have- received their definite appointments - were announced this afternoon, as follow: —Officer commanding. Lieutenant-colonel W. Parkcs, M.D., F.R. C. Ed In.; majors—Major T. Copeland Savage, F.R.C.S., Eng., Major M'Guire, M.D.; captains—Captain F. T. Boworbank. M. 8.. Ch. 8.. Cantain Scott, Captain Fergus, F.R.C.S., Ed in.,* Captain Wallis, M.8.C.M.; quartermaster. Lieutenant Goo. Purdy. Olie HONOURED DEAD. MEMORIAL SERVICE IN WELLINGTON. ADDRESS BY PRIME MINISTER. WELLINGTON, May 25. A memorial service in honour of. New Zealanders killed at the Dardanelles was held in Newtown Park under the auspices of the New Zealand Patriotic Society yesterday. There was an audience of 10.000 citizens, which included the Prime Minister and tho Mayor (Mr J. P. Luke). The Wellington (sth) Regiment, D Battery, tho Wellington Engineers, t he Railway and Post and Telegraph Engineers, tho Army Service Corps, and Ambulance Corps. Senior Cadets, Veterans’ and National Reserve units, to the total number of 3000 men, paraded. Tho service was conducted by Chaplain-major D. C Bates and Chaplain-captain J. Chapman. Seven bands took part in the proceedings, and largo crowds witnessed tho march of tho soldiers to the park. Tho Rev. Archibald E. Hunt, whoso son has boon just wounded in Turkey, delivered an inspiriting address calling for more men. “Ovlore men” was also the keynote of the address by tho Right Hon. VV . F. Massey. He was proud, he said, that Wellington was doing her .part in the gigantic struggle, and paid' a tribute to the silent work._ of the mothers and wives who wore making big sacrifices. Men were needed to take the place of those who had fallen, and were fulling so gloriously at the Dardanelles. Tho dominion would always do her part till Britain had concluded peace with honour. DEPENDENTS OF SOLDIERS. GOOD WORK BY PATRIOTIC ASSOCIATION. The Officer Commanding the district has approved of a miiitarv night being set apart by tho P 1 i m me r-H all Comedy Company. The date fixed is Juno 4, and tho proceeds will be devoted to tho Dependents of Our Soldiers’ Relief Fund. It is that there will be a large attendance of officers, non-commissioned officers, men, and their friends. Tickets may bo obtamccl from the committee of officers for the district. Tho officers and men will attend the performance in service uniform. The work of the Patriotic Association in regard to soldiers’ dependents is much wider and greater than most of the public seem to be aware of. In very many cases tho. association has taken over tho entire payment of house rent, and in addition where tho number of children warrants the extra expenditure, coal is being supplied. The work is conducted systematically _ and thprougblv; every case is dealt with on jts merits, and the most liberal assistance, with duo regard to tho proper use of the moneys contributed iro the association, is given. Indeed. in many cases families arc now better provided for than was the case when the soldiers wore at homo. V nero families have been housed under very moan conditions the association has gone further and provided better accommodation. Besides'those things those assisted have the benefit of free medical attention, and medicine is provided at the lowest possible cost. If there is sickness in the home and extra assistance is needed, it is immediately forthcoming. In a number of cases the association has found that The soldiers have insurance policies that tho dependents aro not in a position to keep up, and in such cases it has undertaken to carry on the necessary payments. It is not only the families of casual workers, though these form the majority, that receive' assistance. It has been found that the wives of men •who were in receipt of 11s or 12s a da_y prior to joining* the forces, and o.vn th-*n properties, have found themselves getting into difficulties, and in the??>_ cases tho association has come to the relief, so that the properties will remain intact, as is only right. The scope of the work is -very wide, embracing not only the city,_ but even the country districts as far as Clinton and Earnsclengh. As evidence that the assistance given meets the cases, it may bo remarked that not a single complainthas been made to the association oy any of the wives. It has in he borne in mind that the soldiers’ allocations do not represent any great amount, about 28? per week, but where house rent and other assistance i? added a fair average weekly wage for casual workers is reached. This is onLv

to show that there need bo no ease of suffering or hardship, and there need be no hesitation in approaching the association, which is doing its work conscientiously. As already stated, every case is dealt with thoroughly, the fullest possible inquiry hem made to ensure that both those assisted and those assisting receive justice at the hanas of those responsible. . . The work of the Patriotic Association cannot, of course, take permanent form for the years to come. ihat is a mattei for the Legislature, and will bo dealt with In due time when Parliament assembles, and the necessary proposals to ensure the future of the dependents ot those hilled -a d maimed comes up for consideration. SERBIAN RELIEF FUND. THE OTAGO DAILY TIMES AND OTAGO WITNESS LISP. Previously acknowledged £402 19 10 Total to date - ...£449 14 4 THE Y.M.C.A, EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FUND. Previously acknowledged £l6l 11 6 Total to date ..j ••• 92 18 THE ANAESTHETICS EMERGENCY FUND. Previously acknowledged ... £22 6 9 Total to date ...£147 17 0

THE BELGIAN DOCTORS AND PHARMACISTS’ RELIEF FUND.

Canon Curzon-Siggers and Mr A. H. Fisher report the following receipts for the fund to be administered in Egypt by the Rev. O. Bush-King:— Previously acknowledged ... £239 9 6 Total to date ... i.< £663 0 6 OTAGO WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION. Work has been carried on steadily every day this week. Large quantities of the different articles required for the gift parcels have been cut out and distributed to ladies, who are sewing them in their own homes. „ , _ The Port Chalmers Women s Committee has forwarded another- largo consignment 70 pairs of socks, four scarves, 12 Balaclavas, fix sponge bags, six button -bags, six holdalls 13 housewives, and 26 handkerchiefs. The girls and boys of the Sawyers Bay School have supplied 20 pairs of cuffs, one dozen button bags, and one Balaclava. Another box from the Port Chalmers Women’s Committee contained 117 baby clothes for the Lady French Fund. The Clinton Women’s Patriotic Committee has made another -addition to its already generous supply, a box arriving yesterday with tho following gifts: —100 soap bags, 29 service bags, 52 tea towels, 124 handkerchiefs, 47 pairs socks, five pairs cuffs, 10 Balaclavas, and six scarves—a truly generous donation from Clinton, which is one of our smaller towns. PORT CHALMERS WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION. The -women of Port Chalmers and- the surrounding districts are working very hard in the interests of the soldiers, and even the school girls are busily acquiring the art of knitting in a spirit of helpfulness, ffhe members of the "Women’s Patriotic Association are gx-eatly delighted at the interest that is being displayed in their work by the people of Port. At the weekly work gathering on Friday the workroom was_ crowded both in the afternoon and evching. Ihe committee reports that almost every day women are offering to help in whatever is the most needed branch of the work at the time. The school children, with the help of their teachers, have taken up the knitting enthusiastically. CATHOLIC SEWING GUILD. The Catholic Sewing Guild for the Belgian Relief met on Wednesday, when the following donations wore received: —Mrs Shiel £2, Helper 10s, Mrs Dunning 10s, “ A Friend ” 2s. Goods were received from Holy Cross College, Pdice Station, Dunedin, Mrs Burn. Mrs Dyer, Mrs Fraher, Miss Feeney. Miss Hcgarty, Mrs Laybum. Mrs Molloy, “A Friend 1,” “A Friend 2,” Anonymous, Mrs Smith, sen. (Portobello), “ A Friend 3,” Mrs Munroo. APPAREL FOR THE TROOPS At last week’s meeting of the Otago Education Board a letter was received from Mr Eudey, representing the teachers of Dunedin and suburban schools, asking if the board would sanction, if possible, the present sewing syllabus being held in abeyance, so that tho girls might devote their energies to the preparation of articles - that were needful in this time of war. It was considered in tho light of tho present crisis that the girls might be permitted to lay aside, for a time, the ordinary syllabus and take up what might bo called a patriotic sewing syllabus. The Chief Inspector suggested that a modification of the syllabus asked for could be permitted only by tho department. In view of the national crisis and representations made ho would recommend the department to allow a modification being made in the syllabus, with a view of giving tho girls a personal interest in the stirring times through which we were passing. It was resolved to make application to tho department for permission to bring about tho necessary modification of tho syllabus. THE BELGIAN FUND. MONTHLY CONTRIBUTIONS BY FARMERS. The farmers and workers in Moa Flat, Dunrobin, and Edievale district have instituted a scheme of monthly contributions to the Belgian Fund, in which Mr R. AcfconAdams, of Wilden Station, is interesting himself. The first collection resulted in the substantial sum of £57 17s 6d for the fund, as under: — Moa Flat. —Wilden employees (5s monthly teach): William Manson, Hugh Shields, Charles Weather all, Robert Thomson, Harry

Sheppard, William Patterson, Adam Brockie, Richard Spedding, Colin M'Donald, Jog Massey, William Walker, Arthur Byron, Chas. Gallagher, Clarence Melrose, Robert M'Namara, Thomas Costello, William Ruane, Leonard \\ aite, W alter Knolvlcs, William Ballooh, Clifford Monear, Pholis Diamond, Willie Pringle, Gwin B. Rooney, John W. Rooney. In addition: George R. Young £l, R. Acton-Adams £5 —£12 ss. Edievalo and D unrobin Farmers, 20 s monthly (per Mr Duncan M’Lonnan). —W. Spencer, D. M'Lennan, Mrs Beresford, W. M'Kenzie, R. F. Smaill and Son, R. Heath, Mrs E. M'Kenzie, Finlay Bros., C. Duff, H. Duff (and donation £3), R. Edie, A. Edie, Murdoch M'Kenzie, W. Caffell, JohnHaugh -£lB. ' Edievalo and Dimrchm Farmers Families and Employees’ List, 5s monthly (per Mr Duncan M'Lennan).—J, M'Lonnanyß. Philpott, T. Ackley, C. Hartnett, J. 1 ; ulhern, M. Barr, L. Jones, G. Towns, G. Spence, Alex. Fraser. In addition: Geo. Spencer 10s, John Edgar 10s, Haugh Bros. 10s. Mill hands: John M'Kenzie, A. Hall, J. Stanniors. J. Ford, T. Thompson, R. M'Clelland, W, Clack E. Clack, W. O’Connor, T. Thornton, H. Edwards —£6 15s. Moa Flat Farmers.—Paul Bros. 20s, Brenssell Bros. 20s, Win. Philpott 20s, Alfred Jane, sen., 20s, Jano Bros. 20s, R. Yardlcy 40s G M. Love 20s, S'. J. Kempthorne 20s (and 25s donation). Heath Bros. 20s. Alex. M'Kenzie 20s, Smaill Bros. 40s, Mrs Wilkins 20s—£15 ss. , „ Moa Flat Farmers’ Families and Employees.—Svdnev Jane, Reuben Jane. Leslie Nicbol, John Harvey, Clement Dedman, William Hughes 5s each. Walter Yardley 10s, Miss Yardlcy, A. Kerr, J. Kerr, J. Russell 5s each, W. Hickey 2s 6d, H. Brewster, John Harris, jun., Nicholas M'Cann, Edward Hickev 5s each. Ohaffcutter hands: Geo. Jenkins, Alex. Duncan,’ Angus M'Coll, Chas. Sinclair, Jack Kitching, Gus Munyard 5s each —£5 12s 6d.

A HANDSOME DONATION. AUCKLAND, May 18. It is announced that the sum of £IO,OOO has now been subscribed wherewith to purchase Mr H. E. Partridge’s collection of Lindaeur pictures for tho Auckland Art GalAt a function in tho Town Hall this week a cheque for £IO,OOO will be handed to Mr Partridge, who will pass it on to the Belgian Relief Fund, and hand over the pictuics to the city. It is onlv a few weeks since Mr Partridge made his offer, and almost all the public bodies in or near the city have made donations towards the fund. PROPOSALS FOR DRILLING. IDEA FAVOURED. IN AUCKLAND. AUCKLAND, May 20. A movement is on foot among the sports bodies in Auckland to arrange tlnit on Saturday bo given to d . v, hn f tnort l o men for each Saturday given to P<> 6 Hockey Association Executive s enthusi PstTcally in favour of the proposals, and the bodies Controlling football also tl idea. Other similar bodies in other cities are to bo approached. OTAGO ATHLETES AND THE WAR. A CREDITABLE RECORD. a f the monthly meeting of the Otago ~ ® f t u„ iv / \ A. Association on So 21st the President (Mr E ItoseyeaiO said lie had always been proud of holdin o the position of president and eepecuiUy was he so when he could say that 200 f ELo rnnk* of t-lio association in tho Otago Centre had joined the Expeditionary Forces.' It had been stated that New Zealand, in proportion to its population, hS Unt more n,on on aot.vo any other pl«» m the "“PHf He was quite sure also that the Utago Centre of Vo N.Z.A.A.A. had sent more men in proportion to its strength as a body than any other such body in the' dominion. —'(A pplause.) They were all instlv proud of the men who had gone away to fight the battles of the Empire—(Applause.) Amongst the number who had volunteered were tho following delenates of the Otago Centre: —Messrs R E. fwleston B. F. Mitchell, B- L- Aitken F M. Reid, L. E. Barratt, J Coburn, and \V Tweedy. The various clubs had contributed the following proportion of men t> the forces;— University 48, Anglican 3-, ■poi Civil Service 20. St. Kilcla if, Dunedin 15, St! Joseph’s 14, Cargill Road 11, Caversham 10, Y.M.C.A. 8, Dunedin Harriers 7, and Mosgiel and South Dunedin Presbyterian 1 each. Every club in tho centre had participated, and it was a, worthy record for the centro.-(Applause.) Two club members had died on active service—Lieutenant J. Cowan (St. Joseph s Club) and Private Torrio- (Pacific Club)— both of whom were held in the highest esteem Quite a number of men had been reported wounded. The secretary would send letters of sympathy to relatives of deceased members. Ho moved the following resolution:—‘This centre desires to record its highest appreciation of the gallantry and pluck shown by the men or our Now' Zealand troops engaged at the Daydanelles, and also to convey its heartfelt svmpathy to the relatives of those who have been killed in doing their pest to upliold tho honour and best traditions cs our n£ *Mr Sanderson seconded the motion which was carried, all members standing. Mr Doull added that it was the duty of the centre to do what it could for volunteers in the direction of securing employment for them on their return. Tho President mentioned that Mr U. M. Reid, one of tho most zealous members of the centre, and Mr Ait-ken, another good worker for sport, had volunteered. Tho former was not only an active member, hut was a well-known donor of prizes for the encouragement of the sport. Ho had much pleasure on behalf of tho Otago Centre In moving- that the services of both gentlemen be recorded. They were wished good luck, and a safe return. Tire motion was carried on tho voices, amidst applause. Mr Reid, who responded on behalf of Mr Ait.kon, said they would do their best for their country, and return to do their best again for tho sport.— (Applause.) THE BELGIAN FUND. CARNIVAL AT HOKITIKA. HOKITIKA, May 20. Tin’s evening Mr Berries opened a bazaar, which is being held in aid of the Belgian Fund, and ho afterwards patronised a concert for tho name object. He was

subsequently entertained by the Yvesthmd County Council. Great interest is being taken in the local queen of the carnival election, and a. substantial amount bus already been raised by this juoans to swell the Belgian Relief Fund. THE WINTER SHOW. At a meeting of the Otago A. and P. Society on the 20th a letter was received from Miss Burt (lion, secretary of the Otago Women’s Patriotic Association), who wrote in connection with the catering at the forthcoming Winter Show', and suggested on behalf of her committee that half the proceeds be given to tho Wounded _ Soldiers’ Fund and half to the Belgian Relief Fund. After consideration it was resolved to comply with the suggestion of the above association. Various details in connection with the Belgian and Wounded Soldiers’ Relief Funds wore referred to the sub-committeo with power to act. BELGIAN BAZAAR AT KAITANGATA. The people of Kaitangata district have been working bard for some weeks for a bazaar in aid of the Belgian Relief Funds. The function was opened in Wilson’s Hall at Kaitangata on the 19th inst. by the Mayor (Mr Robert Adtcheson), who expressed confidence that the reputation of the district for generosity would be sustained by tho worthy steps being taken to assist the Belgians. The hall was crowded last evening. At the conclusion it was found that £BS (exclusive of art union money) had been received. The bazaar will be continued till Tuesday. Tho bazaar being held at Kaitangata in aid of the Belgian Fund was continued last night. Over £430 has been received to date, and it is expected that over £SOO will bo realised a? a result of the effort. Produce worth £2o is still in band, and it is hoped to dispose of this before the bazaar Concludes to-night. CARNIVAL AT HYDE. A carnival and sale of produce was hold at Mrs Lynch’s hall, near tho Hyde Raihvay Station, on Thursday. Mr C. G. Trotter, of the Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Society, Dunedin, conducted the auction sale. His genial stylo brought tho bids thick and fast, and numerous lots were bought in and reoffered. Everything brought full value, and in a great many instances fancy prices were paid. There was a large attendance. The refreshment rooms (in charge of Mrs Carvalho and others) did a roaring trade, as did the frqit stall, In charge of Miss Kinney, and Mr Taylor and Mr Currie successfully conducted some side shows, _ The day wound up with a potato race and tilting in the ring competition. A dance held In the hall in the evening was Well attended. INVERCARGILL CARNIYAL WEEK. INVERCARGILL, May 21. A most successful carnival, extending over a week, was concluded to-day, with the annual winter show as the central feature. Perfect autumn weather prevailed throughout tho week, and there was a large influx of visitors to the town, the available accommodation being fully taxed. The winter show was the best yet held by the Southland Society, Additional fixtures were the annual poultry show, tho annual dog show, tho annual conference of the South Island Dairy Association, the Waterloo Cup meeting of the Coursing Association, and gatherings of minor importance. By way of conclusion, this afternoon the Patriotic Committee organised a demonstration which was a. brilliant success, the attendance exceeding. 10,000. The gross receipts have not yet been ascertained, but £6OO was taken at the gates and grand stand to-day. The theatre was thronged in the evening, when a patriotic concert was given, at which the local war funds were further increased, and vigorous recruiting speeches were made. The success of the initial carnival week is a matter for general congratulation. Nearly 300 men have now answered the call to enlist, while .Southland’s quota in the special force is 400. Recruiting is to be vigorously carried out during the next fortnight, and it is confidently anticipated that fully 500 men will come forward. HOKITIKA CARNIVAL. MAGNIFICENT RECEIPTS FOR BELGIAN FUND. HOKITIKA, May 24. There was a record attendance in Hokitika to-day, when the election of carnival queen was held. Visitors came from all parts of the West Coast, Greymouth being particularly well represented. Tho interest taken in the election was exceptionally keen, and right up to the closing of the poll the support of tho various candidates vied with each other in swelling tho fund for tho Belgians. The people of the district originally set out to collect £2OOO, but tho election ' realised £5347, in addition to the amount taken at the gates. The commercial travellers’ candidate (Miss Gicsoking, of Greymouth) received the largest number of votes, This, candidate was expected to win tho election, as she has had the wholehearted support of the West Coast commercial travellers and Greymouth people. They carried through an extensive programme of entertainments, and adopted many and varied means of augmenting the fund. Tho travellers have supported a candidate in every carnival qnocn election held in New Zealand to swell the Belgian Fund, and on this occasion they were determined to be successful. Thdr win proved to bo very popular. The of tho other candidates have been organising for some time past to win the election, but their votes were distributed among five local aspirants. Following is the result: Miss Gicseking (Greymouth), 209,261. Miss Myrtle Keller (Hokitika), 160.187. Miss Fanny Evans (Hokitika), 136,406. Miss Winchester (Rose), 79,903. Nurse Isdrtite (Kurnara), 34,146. Mies Hatch (Rinui), 21,838. When tho result was announced each candidate returned thanks for the support accorded her. The successful queen is to ho crowned tonight in tho theatre.

P ATRIOTIC AND RECRUITING COMMITTEE. A meeting of the Patriotic and Recruiting Committee was held in the Town Hall on the 25th. It was mentioned that an some cases employers had met yonng_ men in their employ offering their services to the Empire

in anything but a generous _ spirit, _ and it was resolved that a deputation wait upon these employers. It was resolved that tho send-off on Saturday to the reinforcements bo from the railway station, the arrangements being left to the following sub-committee—The Mayor, the chairman, and Messrs C. G. White and H. H. S. White. Tho secretary was instructed to write to the Minister of Defence, asking that m the press reports tho name “Australasians in connection with tho operations at the Dardanelles be deleted, and that the colonial troops bo described as “Australians and “New Zealanders” respectively. THE RELIEF FUNDS. The amount invested on the Oamaru C up, and from which tho club will donate tlio proceeds to tho Belgian Fund, ran to £2549. This will moan that tho best part of £3OO will go towards the fund. The Rev. H. 0. Fenton, lately attached to All Saints’ Church as curate, has consented to deliver a lecture in aid of the Belgian and Serbian relief funds. He made quite a name for himself in England as a popular lecturer, having a raoy style of delivery and description. The lecture selected, “ Tho Gates of the Orient,” is specially suited for the present time, giving a very good idea of tho country where tho New Zealand reinforcements spent many months. The London papers say that every picture portrayed tho glorious warmth and sunshine of the East, and that in spite of the inclement weather- on the night of tho lecture being given, only standing room was available. Mr Fenton is a photographer of no mean order, having carried off in one year the three highest awards for lantern slides in the British Empire. The lecture will be given in the Early Settlers’ Hall on Juno 17. LARGE SUM RAISED IN GISBORNE. GISBORNE, May 19. In connection with the Queen Carnival and Patriotic Funds, the Cosmopolitan Club last night voted £IOOO to support their candidate. Tho City Band had previously given up their share of tho proceeds of the carnival, estimated at £IOOO. Lhc sale of the Union Jack realised over £4OO. RETURNED SOLDIERS. PROPOSAL FOR LAND SETTLEMENT. PRIME MINISTER APPROACHED. (Fbom Oub Own Cokbesfondent.) WANGANUI, May 23. What provision the State intends to make for returned soldiers is a question that will probably be discussed when the House meets, Mr E. Newman, M.P. for Rangitikei, having already moved in tho matter. Mr Newman is desirous of seeing - that manj men will get homes on the land, instead of settling in tho towns. In a nutshell, his proposition is that, if a trooper is a country man, and want? land, ho would be better off with a good section than a small pension. With that object in view, Mr Newman wrote to the Prime Minister suggesting that, as a largo number of men had come from country districts, and would naturally desire on their return to Now Zealand to resume country pursuits, the Government should consider the advisability of setting aside a large block of tho better quality of our remaining Crown lands, with the purpose of settling those men thereon. Mr Newman, in his letter, pointed out that the young men now serving- in tho war were losing their chances of acquiring Crown lands at low value and on most favourable terms. In the interests of the country, and of the troopers alike, ho considered that a strenuous effort should be made to secure them as permanent settlers of New Zealand, and to prevent them from drifting- citywards. The Prime Minister replied as follows: “With regard to providing' land for returned troopers, I propose to do whatever may be possible in this way, but it is to bo remembered that a very large proportion of these men have had no training whatever which would enable them to make successful settlers, and the remaining Crown lands are mostly second and third-class, requiring both capital and experience to make a success of thorn. Wherever, however, returned soldiers have the necessai-y experience, and apply to me, I shall endeavour to provide land for them; but one of the difficulties of tho future is this: that the remaining Crown lands, or only a very small proportion of them, are at all fit for agricultural purposes. There arc, it is true, blocks of land suitable for fruitgrowing which could be cut up into 20 or 25-acre sections, but fruitgrowing requires a special training, even perhaps more than the other branches of agriculture. I intend to have legislation dealing with the subject laid before the House when Parliament meets. —-Yours sincerely (signed) W. F. Massey.’’ GERMANS IN NEW ZEALAND NOT WANTED IN RESPONSIBLE positions; NAPIER, May 21. A largely-attended meeting, called by the Mayor at the request of a deputation of ladies, to-night decided to forward the following petition to the Prime Minister:— “ WeP the undersigned British born subjects of the dominion of Now Zealand, beg to draw your attention to tho attitude of New Zealand during tho present great struggle for the existence of the Empire. The” British loaders of all parties have denounced the Gormans as murderers and pirates. The enemy has deliberately broken every law, human and divine, in conducting the war against us. Their leaders, princes, admirals, and teachers have educated their whole people to carry on brutality on a wholesale scale. We are of opinion that, while the dominion is showing considerable energy in supporting the Empire, it has failed in tho want of stringent control of tho resident Germans, naturalised or otherwise. The retention of Germans in responsible positions, and inadequately controlling and punishing suspects and offenders, is calculated to demoralise the public by apparently condoning tho enormous crimes which the Gormans are committing against our relatives and kindred. There are about 11,000 Gormans over the age of 21 resident in Now Zealand. We earnestly and _ respectfully pray that all parties should join in taking more active stops to remove German and other alien enemies from responsible positions, and to more stringently and completely control the German element in New Zealand.” The mooting also carried a resolution congratulating General Botha_ on his success in German South-west Africa,

STATEMENT BY MINISTER OF DEFENCE, In reply to a letter to the Hon. James Allen (Minister of Defence), conveying a resolution adopted at the recent public meeting regarding the Government’s attitude to lumaturahsed subjects of enemy countries residing in New Zealand, his Worship the Mayor (Mr J. J. Clark) has received tho following:—“I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of May 15, with resolution passed at a meeting of citizens of Dunedin, on May 12, to the effect that non-naturalised enemy subjects should be interned. Non-naturalised enemy subjects have, to a very large extent, boon interned, and if you 'know of any that have not boon so dealt with, I should be glad if you would acquaint me with their names. As to the naturalised subjects, those whom we suspect to be in any way disloyal are under observation. With respect to disloyal British subjects, they are being dealt with in accordance with military law.—Yours faithfully, (Signed) J. Alles.’? GERMAN LABOURERS SEEK INTERMENT. WANGANUI, May 22. According to l accounts from Raetihi, a number of Germans are employed on tho railway works between Ohakune and Raetihi. There has been a good deal of friction, and this became acute after the Lusitania disaster, fisticuffs being resorted to. The Teutons have since boon told off to work in a cutting by themselves, to avoid further trouble, and it is understood that they have applied to bo interned after their next pay-day. ATTITUDE OF THE GOVERNMENT. WELLINGTON, May 24. In connection with the questions that have been raised in regard to tho employment of aliens in the service of the State a circular Was issued some time ago by the Public Service Commissioners, the first two clauses of which are as follow: — “ (1) All Germans not naturalised to be removed from the public service. “ (2) All Germans who are naturalised British subjects are to be suspended unless satisfied that such persons are absolutely loyal, careful inquiry to bo made in such cases.” “ These instructions have been carefully complied with,” stated the Prime Minister to a reporter to-day. “ SHuce the war began the Government has not naturalised any aliens.” munitions of war. OFFER BA T NEW ZEALANDERS. DECLINED BY AUTHORITIES. The lion. James Allen has replied as follows to the letter from Mr G. Harper, (president of the Citizens’ Defence Corps), regarding munition workers for Great Britain (says tho Christchurch Press): —“I have to inform you that the following telegram ha.s been received from the Imperial Government in reply to tho offer of tho New Zealand Government to send Homo a number of skilled mechanics to assist in the manufacture of munitions of war: ‘The matter has been carefully considered by the Munitions of War Committee, which appreciates highly the offer, but feels that questions of transport, distance, and testing workmen to bo sent make it difficult of acceptance. Whilst circumstances make it difficult to accept the offer, his Majesty’s Government is most grateful for the spirit which dictated it.’ Under these circumstances, while thanking all those who so willingly offered their services, the New Zealand Government can take no further action in the matter.” ITALY'S INTERVENTION APPRECIATION IN DUNEDIN. A deputation assembled at the Town Hall on Monday morning for the purpose of waiting upon Mr John Roberts, C.M.G., consular agent at Dunedin for Italy, and expressing to him the gratification of the citizens that that nation had resolved to throw in its lot with the Allies in the life-ancl-death struggle now taking place in Europe. Tho deputation consisted of leading representatives of many branches of the communitv, including tho Primate (Bishop Nevillj, Dean Fitchett, ministers of other denominations, Mr C*. E. Statham, M.P., Mr J. A. Johnstone, Mr G. Fenwick, and various well-known business men. Tho Mayor (Mr J. J. Clark), in a few suitable remarks, introduced the matter, and then called upon Mr Johnstone to move the following resolution: — The citizens of Dunedin desire to express their great gratification at and sincere appreciation of the decision of the Italian nation in joining Britain and her allies in their struggle for the freedom of the world against the German military despotism. Mr Johnstone proposed the motion in a stirring speech, and it was seconded by Dean Fitchett (who is always interesting when speaking on. military affairs) and Mr George Fenwick. _ ' The motion was carried unanimously and suitably acknowledged by Mr John Roberts, Who stated that he had not yet received official intimation of war having been declared.

BRISTOL PIANO COMPANY. WELLINGTON. May 18. Mr M. J. Brookes, manager of the Bristol Piano Company, writes to the press as follows: —‘T was'much .pained to read of the regrettable disturbances at Wanganui, by which two windows of the Bristol Piano Company’s showrooms were smashed. Why, I cannot for the life of mo understand. The shareholders in my company, with which I have been associated for 32 years, are British born and bred, and, though I hate to sing praises where I am concerned, I am proud) to say that no company in the dominion could have shown more practical svmpathv in aiding the Empire and its Allies. The Bristol Piano Company has 10 employees in the Expeditionary Forces, nil of whom are on half-pay, with a promise of reinstatement in their positions on their return Again, all onr directors have relatives fi■dating with the Allies. What more could anv firm do to help to maintain civilisation against barbarism and militarism ? ’ ’