DOT'S LITTLE FOLK.

Otago Witness, Issue 3234, 8 March 1916, Page 75

DOT'S LITTLE FOLK.

Dot Invites short letters from her young friends throughout th« Dominoon on matters of interest to themselves, the result ol their observations In the animal world, descriptions of anything they ore intercepted in, oi the district in which they live, oi their school and home lile, holiday trips, &o. The letters are to be written by the little folk themselves, and addressed "Dot, oar« of Editor Witness."

Dot's Little Folk's Badge with pin, for use sa a brooch, obtainable on application to Dot. Prioe, Is 6d post free, in penny or halfpenny stamps. Aoto. Cards aw obtainable from Dot, Witness Office, Dunedin. Price, 9d for 25.

LETTER FROM A MILITARY CAMP

Dear Dot, —It is about eight months since I last penned those two familiar words. For somo time past I intended writing, but neglected -to do so. I consider it my duty to announce to you and" my comrades that I have joined the colours, and am in camp at Feathcrston with the Twelfth Reinforcements. It will be six weeks to-morrow since I. oame into camp. How time flies, Dot! It seems only a week or two since I left homo. I was two weeks under canvas at Tauhercnikau; but that camp was abandoned, and the whole Reinforcements wore shifted to this new one, which is very much larger. Well, Dot, I will try to give you a description of my trip over. First of all, I receivod notice from the Oamaru headquarters that I was accepted for service, and had to parade at the Oamaru Drill Hall on January 13 at 1 p.m. I left home on the 4th for" Dunedin, and intended leaving Dunedin on the 12th to spend the night with my relatione in Oamaru. I sent a wire that I was coming by the 3.15 express, and to meet m© at the station. In the afternoon I went down to catch the train, and found I was just five minutes too late. I felt very disappointed, for, sure enough, - they were there to meet me. I stayed that day in Dunedin, and next day the Otago boys had to assemble at the Dunedin Railway Station at 10 minutes to 8 to proceed to Gamaru. We left Dunedin at 8 o clock, and arrived at Oamaru at 11. We then had our dinner, and afterwards walked up to the Drill Hall, where we waited about an hour before wo were marched into the hall. After the captain had delivered a speech, we were marched out on to the main road, where the military band was lined up ready to load the procession to the railway station. We were halted there, and the parents and relatives were allowed to bid farewell to the heroes they were sending to the front. We were lined up again, and marched on to the railwav platform, formed into two lines, and stood at attention. About five minutes later tho troop train arrived from the south amidst roar 3of cheers. We left Oamaru at a quarter to 4, arriving at LyHelton at 8 o'clock at night. We left Lyttclton by the s.s. Maori at 9 o'clock, and arrived in Wellington at 7.30 next morning. After we came ashore we were marched up to the barracks, where we had our breakfast. That over, wo were marched back to the railway station, where the train was waiting to convey the troops to the camp; but eomo mistake was made, as the mounted men were taken to Trentham instead of Featherston. Wo left Trentham at 5 o'clock, and arrived at our destination at 9 o'clock. Well, Dot, you will be getting tired of this, so I will change the subject. The weather is very warm up here, especially this week. We haven't had any rain for quite a long time, and the grass is getting parched up for the want of it. Last week tho Twelfth Mounteds were camped up at Papawai for a week. We were camped in tents, which, I think, arc much better than the huts this warm weather. A

good number of us were skipping outside. I liavo been in Wellington only once since I came hero, so I intend going in on Saturday night. Well, Dot, I will have to make this my retiring letter, as I will be 21 on March 10, and 20 is the retiring age, is it not? Perhaps you will permit me to write while I am away. Since I entered the L.F. circle I have made many acquaintances, and am still corresponding with L.F.'s. I must thank yon for your kindness in printing my letters, although they weren't of much interest. I hope my later ones will bo more intresting if I have the luck to get to the front. I will conclude, wishing the page every success in future years. With best wishes to Black Pansy, Lady Catherine, Armchair, end Lovelink, not forgetting yourself and the editor,—Yours truly, SOMEBODY'S COMRADE (Trooper D J Kennedy, D Squadron, Twelfth Mounted Reinforcements, Military Camp, Featherston.)

[We must consider the rule as to the retiring age suspended in the case of all who enlist. I hope, dear comrade, you v/ill continue to write to the page as opportunity offers. We shall all be so proud of you and the other old L.F. who are fighting for the King and the Empire that wo do not want to lose eight of any of you. In the meantime we will all join in wishing you God-speed, good luck, and a safe return.— DOT.] LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK. Motto: —Wo writo for the benefit of others, not for ourselves. 8W No letter to contain moro than 450 words. Dear Dot, —It i 3 a long time since I last wrote to. you. The weather is pretty mixed here: one day you are nearly blown out of existence, tho next half-roasted, and then, perhaps, a little coo), fine weather. Tonght it is trying to drown us. We have some of our oats cut, but the rest are not ripo yet. The school excursion waa held last week. It was at Oolac this year. The excursion has been to Colac for the last halfdozen years, but for all that I enjoyed myself immensely. Wo went into tho bush to cut supplejacks, and were wading and prowling round about. I also went up to Lake George, which is a small lako about half an hour's walk from the beach. I was with Pinks and Queen of the Redskins nearly all day. About a month ago I was at another picnic, and enjoyed myself there, too. This season has been a, good one for bees, and wo have taken out a lot of honey, and still have a lot to take out. I always have tho straining of it; but I like the job all right. I have been straining some today, and -I"-'- I ''---' h <aey beer. at er I was finished ' • pretty :.v.vot tho honey w; ■• to roe in all ■ ; • .dons, and ah I ha. . <d t .' torn toothac .."j'i while, i think here must be an ah s in it, but ray brother thinks it is •' '. to ..ting toe much honey. Ono

of my brothers is away rabbiting With a friend of his. Thev have a contractor e hut, which they take about with them, and they eeem to enjoy camping out. My mother has been away for a holiday to Dunedin and round about there, and I was housekeeper. She went to see one of her brothers who was down on leave from Trentham. She has another brother in Trentham, too. Ho was with the Ninth Reinforcements; but he was in ado a military policeman, pq I don't know when he is going. The Territorial camp is to be held in the Invercargill Show Grounds this year, and two of my brothers will be in it. Our hens are laying fairly well now. Since I last wrote our best dog was poisoned, so we have got a new one; but I don't think he 13 going to be much good. I phall close now. With love to Queen of the Redskins and Pinks and yourself,—Yours truly, QUEEN OF THE ROSES (Taramoa).

[Straining honey must be, I should think, messy work. How do you contrive to keep tho bees a%vay, or perhaps you work in the evening after they have retired? —DOT.] Dear Dot, —This is only a short note to let you know that I haven't forgotten the page; butl am rather short of subjects at present. We Timaru people are very lucky when there are picnics here, becau&e we always eeem to strike a beautiful day. Take, for instance, yesterday. There were picnic? from Gcruldine, Teniuka, and Ashburton, and I am sure they could not possibly have wished for a better day, or if they did wish for a better they must be very, very hard to please. We had tho French Pied Cross gala evening on the 25th down at Caroline Bay, and it was a sight well worth seeing. There were sideshows, refreshments rooms, rind everything that was possible to make the evening as enjoyable as possible. I shall close now. With love to all the D.L.F.,— Youra truly,

LIFT (Timaru)

[From all accounts you have had too much fine weather in Timaru to suit most people, Lift. A good downpour of rain would bo welcomed by most folk. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It is a long time since I penned tlAjse two words, but all the samo I never forget to rend the D.L.F. letters every week. What a number of D.L.F. there are at the front! Ido enjoy reading their letters to the page. I wonder where all my correspondents have gone to. I have not heard from some of them this year yet. Where are you, Ilangi and Queenie, Pink Iris, and Loch Carron? Hurry up and send me along a few lines, comrades. I was out on Sunday with my friend, and we had the luck to be shown over the Timaru dredge. We went up to the bridge and saw the chart ana the telegraph and how .it was worked, and then wo had a look down the stokehold; but we didn't go down, for it was too dirty. My cousin was down here for nearly all his holidays at Christmas time. Ho used to take a dinghy out sometimes, and spend the afternoon in the bay. I went out with him a few times, and learnt to row. I think it is lovely to bo able to row. We did have some fine times out in the boat, and we had a few narrow escapes, too. Well, dear Dot, this is only a short letter, but I will try to write a longer letter next time. I often wish I could write a long letter like some of the D.L.F. do. I shall close now. With love to Uncle Mary, Loch Carron, Rnngi, Qbeenie, Pink Iris. Lady Catherine, Lady Crace's Mate, and all my correspondents, not forgetting, yourself,— Yours truly,

STRAWBERRY LEAF (Port Chalmers). [The Timaru dredge is more interesting when at work, but. oh, it does creak and groan dreadfully! Rowing is splendid exercise, and it is a pity more girls cannot engage in it in smooth water.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l was veiy pleased to see my letter in print. Wc have been having fine weather lately. We are milking three cows and feeding four calves I have read a good many books lately, some of which are: " Quecch}'," "On the Edge of a Moor," " Trevyln Hold," " Eric and Three Little Brothers." There is a library here which has over 3000 books in it. We go gathering mushrooms sometimes and get a few. They grow mostly in paddocks where there are sheep. I have two cousiii3 at the war. One was in France for 10 months, and then he was wounded in three places. He was •also gassed. I shall close. With kind regards to all the D.L.F., —Yours truly, ELFLEDA (Waitahuna Cully).

[I am glad you have such a well-stocked library near at hand. I hope you do not confine your reading entirely to fiction.— DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your happy hand? I am nine years of age, and in Standard 11. We have seven cows milking, and I milk two night and morning. My sister has a pet lamb, and it will not butt her, but will butt me. There are four children in my class at school. I can ride- a bicycle now. If it does not rain soon there will be no feed for tho cattle. Wc- are sewing handkerchiefs for the soldiers. I like my school teacher very much. We have eight hens and a number of chickens. We have a dog named Lassie, and she helps us to fetch the cows in. We had a lot of fruit on the trees this year. The days are getting short now. I know a few soldiers at the war. I shall dose. With love to all the L.F.,— Yours truly, - CYNTHIA (Airedale). [You are welcome to join us, dear. Pet lambs taught to butt become a nuisance when they grow up.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l must write and tell you about the holidays. We are back a-i school again, and I like being in a new standard. I stayed at Ophir for four weeks at Christinas time, and my grandfather milked four cows night and morning. I was very mueh afraid of them at first, but soon found they were very quiet. They have tho loveliest little red calf, and it was very playful. I saw young ducks just a day old, and they live in the water and never seem to feel the cold. At first I thought lho pigs would eat us, but they only wanted food, but never seemed to be satisfied with what they had. I had a ride on a bio; white horse behind grandad, and laughed -go much that I nearly fell off; but it was lovely. The weather is very warm in Central Otago. I felt ill in the train all the way up, but had belter luck coming down. I think I was glad to see Dunedin again. I get a postcard from my (laddie every mail from Siarn, and I save all the stamps. I must close now, ■With love to all the D.L.F. an <3 yourself,— Yours truly. BURMA (Dunedin). [A holiday in the country would be a delightful change to you, dear; and then a town girl learns so much about cow:;, horses, pigs, ducks, crops, and other things quite without receiving lessons.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Wo started school again, on February 1. I am now in Standard VI, and find the work fairly hard. Wo liavo had lovely weather here lately. I go in swimming pearly cxery day. Wo have removed, and are living in a now house. My aunt and uncle from Dunedin are staying here. I way at a play called " Oet-Eioh-Qnick Wallingford" on Thursday night, and it was very funny. One of my aunts is just baclr from England. She was in Ostend two weeks before the war. I am in our school cricket team, and wo are loading in tho com-

petition by one point. Swimming ia a very popular pastime down here at present, owing to the iiot weather; but the majority of the children cannot swim, us there are no baths heie. Invercargill is backward in this respect. We gee the Witness every week, and I a]ways read the L.F. letters in it. There seems to be more joining every week. I go to the pictures ones a week. We go to do woodwork eveiy Monday morning instead of going to school, i ride a mile and a-hali ro school in the car. There is a school about half a mile from us, but 1 like the school I have always been going to. I save up stamps, and have 1000. I sell stamps for a Dunedin firm. One oi my cousins is going to the war with the Australian Forces as a sergeant. My uncle and aunt in Takaka are trying to get to the war as a doctor and a nurse. My aunt was a nurse in the Dunedin Hospital for three years. 1 ant learning the piano, aire! I like it immensely. I practise an horn a day. I shall now close. With kindest regards to all L.F., not forgetting yourself,— Yours truly, AN IRISH JACK TAR (Invercargill).

[I hope you will persevere with your music. So many boys give it up when they have made but little progress, because it is tiresome, and outdoor games are attractive, and always regret doing so later in life.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —Only a few words to keep in touch with the dear old page. What sort of weather arc you having- in Dunedin'? It is very miserable up here. I never notice Queen of the Forest's name in the D.L.F. page r.cw. I wonder if she is s- ill living in Outram. What an enormous band ol Young Folks you have writing to you. Dot! I suppose you feel tired after you have finished reading all the letters they send in every week. I will bring this scribble to a close now. With best love to Meg Flynn, Hieland Lassie, Spring Blossom, Golden Whip, Silver Star, and Queen of the Forest, not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, LILY FROM THE PLAIN'S (Moa Creek).

[I am going - to devote some time one of these clays to count up the number of those who writs to the page. If you saw my bulky address books you would realise it is not a taslj to be lightly undertaken. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —This is my first letter to the page, and 1 would like to become a member of your happy band. I enjoy reading the D.L.F. letters very much. We have two pet rabbits. Is not this war dreadful, Dot! A number of men have left this district to go to it. The farmers around here are all husy harvesting. The school children are getting a fortnight's holiday to help. I know a number of D.L.F. Wake up, Old Aunt Sally, and write to the page. As this is my first I shall close. With kind regards to Fuchsia., Yanks, Patricia, A Gipsy Lass, and all the other D.L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, BATTLE MAID (Lumsden). [Yes, you may join us, dear, but send on your own name when next you write.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I like reading the D.L.F. letters, because they are interesting-. I have had one uncle and two cousins killed at the war. There are still about six or seven of my cousins at the front, and two uncles. Isn't this war dreadful, Doi! Wc have had terribly hot weather, but to-day it is very cold and drizzling. My mother and the baby are away for a holiday just now, and will be returning on Tuesday night. I shall close now. With love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, " DARDANELLA (Maheno).

[I trust your other cousins and two uncles will have the good luck to get through the war unscathed and return home safely.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We are having fairly good weather hero just now. I am in the Sixth Standard, and was 13 years of age in January. I received two books at the breakup—one from the committee and one for having the second highest marks in the school. On January 23 we motored down to Invercargill, and took The Mariata Lily, her brother, and The Doon with us. We had a very cold drive, but I enjoyed myself at Invercargill. We wore up on the water tower, and had a- good view of the town. Our picnic was hold on a fine day, and a good many were there. I was first in two races and third in another, and altogether I won 2s 3d. Our school started on the last day of January, and I did not care about going, but _ I like it all right now. We are not getting harvest holidays. I was in Gore yesterday, but did not see any L.F. The Mariata Lily's birthday was yesterday, and I gavo her a present. My father is lead-ing-ill, and Ims four men helping him. I shall close now. With love to all ihe L.F. and yoaraelf,-—Yours truly, DAISY CARAMEL (Otama). [You were successful indeed at the picnic. I suppose it is difficult to get suitable prizes for picnics,' but I don't like to hear of money prizes for young people. It reminds one of that strange " fowl," the " cash amateur."— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It is raining here to-night, and it is very unpleasant. My writing is not very good, as I cut my finger, and it is very troublesome. Could you give me a war name for my pup? I cannot find .a name for him. Ho is such a funny little fellow. Ho chases flies and moths and bees. Some o'f them sting him, but he- does not caro much. I am learning to milk now, and can milk two cows. I like milking very much. I think I shall close, as it is bedtime. Here is a riddle for the Little Folk: What is the drffeience between a school teacher and an engine-driver? With kind regards,—Yours truly, FISHER BOY (Tautuku). [I should think Scout might be a suitable name for your pup, considering his habits. Will that suit you, dear?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Just a, line to let you knew that death has .again visited and taken away one out of our large circle. Hilda Munro, of Kurow, died from appendicitis in Dunedin Hospital on Saturday, February 19. I really forget her N.D.P., but it was' either Faithful Fido or Royal Highness. Hilda was 18 years of age, and was one of our workers when the Haka-Kurow D.L.F. socials were on My sister received a nolo from De Claude (Richard P. Lord) some time a.go saying Hint he reached his home in England on December 1, and signed on for the front on December 0, sc by this time ho will be in the firing-line.—Yours truly, E. A. M. (Hakataramea). [The news of the death of ono so young will bo received with regret by all L.F.. end I am sure they will join with me in tendering our respectful sympathy to the sorrowing parents. I thank E. A. M. for bringing the sad event ander notice.—DOT] Dear Dot, —I have not written to you for five or six months. I kept putting 1 off things. It is dviz:'. l in l .;' to-day, eo I thought I would write to you. My Bister has a pot lamb but she is going to sell it soon. We aro back at school again learning _ a_ new kind of drawing—drawing in mess, it is called. There are 21 going to our school, which is just a new one —opened two or three months before Christmas. The war is etill raging We cannot realise the time the soldiers are having. We should all praise cur soldiers for fighting for King and country. There aro two ponies at our school. We had a con-

cert at the break-up, and had singing, reciting, and a dialogue. The name of the dialogue was " The Sick Doll." The songs were "Hearts of oak," " The scrap of paper," " Rule, Britannia," and " Tips " Our school teacher is very nice; we all like her. I can ride the bicycle; I learned before the holidays. I know a few D.L.F about here. Nearly all the harvesting i-: done, as there was not much to do. We have a mile to go to school; it is not very far. Some days the teacher rides a- bicycle to school, but most times she walks. I went to Oamaru and Weston for my holidays, and enjoyed myself very much I know a few soldiers who have gone to the war. I like reading. Some of th.e books I have read arc:—"The White Roof Tree," /'Margaret; or, The Bidden Treasure," " Littlebourne Locks," "A Ring of Rubies," and "A Posy for Girls." Have you read any of them? They are all nice books. I leccivcd two prizes at school—one for second best in the school and the other for sums. We are sewing for the soldiers on the hospital ship. Wo had a lot of fruit on our trees. I think I shall close. With kind regards to all the Littlo Folk, not forgetting our Queen Dot, —Yours truly. CORAL (Airedale). [I cannot recall having read any of the books you name, dear I congratulate you on having won the school prizes you mention.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —It is a long time since I wroto to you last. I have been in the Ashburton Hospital to undergo an operation for appendicitis. After the operation I was put into the women's ward for about a- week; then_ I was shifted into another ward. I v. as in the hospital for six weeks and three days. When I came homo there was a big clifferenco in things. The grass was al! green after the ram, the harvesting was all finished, and the wheat thrashed " I shall close now. With love t.-- the L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours trulv,

TRICKY (Willov.by). [How delighted yen would be to get back home again after such a long stay in the hospital, Tricky. Doubtless you would eeo vast changes about the place. I sincerely hope you may bo fully restored to health shortly, and feel better than ever—DOT.] Dear Dot.—-day I join your happy band? Wo are milking- _24 cows and feeding two calves. I have six brothers and two sisters. Igo to school. Our teacher is Miss Armour. She lives in the schoolbouse. I have some friends away at the war. I have a little grey pony called Tommie. The mill is up here now It is raining to-day. ■ I have a little baby brother, and he is a little trick. He is eight months old. I like reading the D.L.F. letters in the Witness. I always look forward to them. I shall close now. With love all flie D.L.F, not forgetting yourself, —Youi-3 truly, LITDO (Moa Flat). [Yes, you may join us, dear. It must be a pleasure to be fhe owner of a pony at your age—DOT.] Dear Dot, —It is a long time since I last wrote to the page. I am in the Fourth Standard new. 'My sister is also writing to you; her ISf.D.P. is Ludo. I have another sister besides her. I go every Saturday down to Heriot to learn music, my music teacher being Miss Murphy. The baby is sleeping at present. I have to nurse him. His name is Stewart. He has eight t-cefcb. We are cutting our cats at present. I have one brother learning the violin. I hod another brother learning the piano, but he didn't like it, so mum knocked him off it. I like leading the D.L.F* letters. I shall close now. With love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself,— Yours truly, HARVEST MAID (Moa Flat). [I hope you will bo more persevering than your brother with your music. You must be a great help to your mother nursing the baby when he is awake.—DOT.] Dear Dot; —I have passed into the Fourth Standard since I last wrote. I saw "Dad's Girl's letter in print last week. We are having cold weather up here. My brother has a farm of his own now. Wo are making- a garden at school. I have a garden with daffodils in it at school. I know a few L.F up here. We have our gramophone playing to-night. We are milking 24 cows, and have 28 calves. We do not feed them all. We ha.vc finished all our harvesting. I went out to my father's run when h: went out to shear his sheep. It was nice to see the sheep getting shorn. I am just getting better from a bad cold. We play rounders at school. Buttercup II is going to write Boon. I shall close now. With Jove to all the D.L.F., not forgetting vourself, —Yours truly,

GREEN" APPLE (Middloma.roh). [Shearing tirao is generally interesting, and. usually a very busy period.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —It must be nearly two years since I last wrote to the page, and as I will have, only two more years to write/ I think I had better turn over a new leaf and write oftener. We are experiencing very hot weather just now, and everything, in consequence, is very dry, and wo need rain badly. We could do with a little of the rain they have had in some parts of the South Island. There is not very much to write about from this part, but I may tell you about the Masterton A. and P. Show, which was held on Tuesday and Wednesday. February 15 and 16. 1 attended, and spent a most enjoyable day. It was a fine day, and so the attendance was large. A very fine spectacle was that of 400 mounted men from the Fcatherston Military Camp. They looked really splendid as they paraded round the oval. The camp band was alsopresent, and gave some splendid items. The event will long be remembered by those who had the pleasure of witnessing it. The Hon. J. Allen was anion? those present, and presented Private. O'Connor with the D.C.M. Private O'Connor belongs to Masterton. and was lately invalided home from the front, having won the D.C.M. at- Callipoli. Really this is an awful war that is causing such sorrow all the world over. We have a great many relations serving with the Home rtgiments, and one cousin is in camp with ihe Eleventh Reinforcements at Featherston. We are hoping to get down to s-ee the camp soon. It is only about 20 miles from here. The ca-mp is open on Sundays for visitors from 12 noon to f> p.m People who have been down say they have a lovely oa-mp down there. I think it is the wish of most people that the war will soon be. ended, and. of course, in favour of Britain and her brava Allies. Everywhere one goes the war is the topic of conversation: but leally it is too awful to talk about. I may say that we have a- Knitting Guild up here. It meets every fortnight at- a different house on each occasion. "The charge for afternoon tea is the email sum of 6d, and the money wo get provides the wool, etc. I am at present knitting n- pair of mittens. We do not have much snare time just now, but hope when the long winter evenings come round again that wc shall bo able to do more.. There are always about 15 ladies precent, eo you may gu'v*3 wo spend a nice time together. The ladies gave a- display of the work -in the school som-i thuo ago, and. everyone seemed surprised at the- collection. The geutlemai were admitted by giving a parcel or a silver coin, and the result was six parcels and £3 in cash; so, you sec, our party is doing their little bit. I think I had better close now

,___,—^_ —, ~—Sand leave room for abler pens than mine.-* Yours truly, MOUNTAIN LILY (Carterton). [The boys from the camp would make a bravo show at the Show Grounds It is pleasing to learn that the ladies and the young people are working- eg hard to proc vide cornforta for our soldiers. DOT:] Dear Dot.—l think a few years have elapsed sine? I penned those two words so dear to every D.L.F.. and 1 feel a!mo3t ashamed for not writing oitcncr. Since then a great change has come over 113 all. Little did we know that our Empire would bo mixed up in this dreadful turmoil. 1 remember the many wasted sheets of paper I had when I wrota my first, letter to you, and how the days seemed like weeks while I waited to see it in print I have it still in a little box at home. I was only a little kid then. Everybody is harvesting here at present, and there are sonic very pood cropsr' too. For miles around everything is a'golden blaze mottled hero and there by 3/ crop of green turnips or a paddock of dried! up or scorched grass Have you ever beers up to Queenstown, Lot? It is'a lovely placet when the snow is on the hills in winter tim-3. The lake itself is very beautiful. Paradise i-s supposed to be a very beautiful place, too. I have never been there myself. I suppose you feel proud of the number of I) L.F. who have gone to fight for King and country, I saw where you had a brother away, too. I have no brothers able to go. My eldest brother is only 10 years., and my youngest one year and six months. I think all the. Wakatipu L.F. have forgotten Dot altogether. Hurry up anrt write, Cherry Plum, Red Robin, Seafield, Tangle, Winnie, and Country Lass. _ And whore have Mother's Girl, Nascbyits, and Elm Tree gone? I enjoyed Dewdrop's account of the cows in her last loiter, and I am looking forward to her description of ''David Coppcrfield ' in hot next letter. I wish I could describe things as she does. Well, dear Dot, I think I will stop now. With best love to Red Robin, Winnie, Nasebyite, Mother's Girl, and Nebraska, not forgetting your own dear self,—i Yours truly, PALOONA (Lake Wakatipu''. [I have visited Queenstown, and was de» lighted with the place; but that was in the summer, when nearly all the snow had disappeared from most of the mountains, except at the Head of the Lake.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Here I am at last. I wrote 10 the page a while before Christmas, and said I would write after Christmas, so hero I am. It is simply awful up here. Talk about the heat —hot is no name for it. Yesterday wa* a very nice day. but Sunday was very cold, so to-day we are making up for Sunday. I suppose you will be having nice weather in town also. But I must say that a, hot day' in the country is much nic-sr than a hot day in the town. 1 wili now start to tell you something alio it the Christmas holidays. Well, first of all there was the show. 1 did not go to that, as it was a very wot clay; but tiie rain did not keep me away from the dance at night. I did not go to; tho concert, but arrived in time- for the dance. Then the New Year sports. Well, J went to the sports, and enjoyed myself im>. mensely; came heme and had ten, then went to the dance at night. I came home at 4 a.m. from the show dance and a quarter to 4i from the sports 01:0. Then we went for picnics through the week. My little nieca was up. end she is such a dear little girl, so you-can guess wo had a great time with her. She was here for five weeks, and I must say that we missed her when site went away. We receive a letter from my brother in Egypt every two weeks, and he seems to be having a good time so far. He was telling: lis what, he had for Christmas dinner, and no doubt it was as good as what we would, have her-e in New Zealand. He said they had three and a-half days off, and had sports on December 27. A great number of tho boys say that they do not receive the parcels, etc., sent to them, but my brother, has received parcels, etc., and he is quite delighted. Ho said the only ihings he does not receive are papers. On Christmas week he sent me such a lovely cushion cover. It is while satin with a pretty pale green silk edging. In the centre is depicted the Pyramids' and palm trees, and at tho bottom his ownY name and also mine worked in silk. It ia such a lovely cover. He also sent mother one, but hers is green, and flags are worked on it. He sent my married sister one exactly tho same na mine. Two weeks ago he sent us a photo of some of tho New Zealandera and Australians, and my brother looks so well. Ho looks fat and different from wha*j. he was when he was here in New I went to a picnic to Taieri Mouth last Wednesday, and had a real good time, t felt quite sad at having to leave the beach. Quits a number of us girls went in for a, paddle, and when we came out wo were just soaking-; but we soon, got our clothe* dried, and then made our way to the bush. We gathered quite a number of ferns, then came hack and had tea, and went for the boat again. We left here at 7 in the morn' ing, and arrived home again about 8.1 I!) p.mj so we hod a good day's outing. Quite ai number of the ferns I brought homo witMl me have started to grow. I think ferns make a room so nice and cool-looking; don't you think so, Dot? Bon Ami, hurry up and answer my letter; also you, Linnet. Did you receive my last letter, Linnet? You woulcj be away home when I -wrote it. I noticed your letter in the Witness, Marseillaise; so please write 1o me. Where have you got to, Everybody's Friend? Have you left Tho fruit is - very plentiful up here—such a number of plums and apples we had ; but the plums are all gone now. Wc have still plenty of apples, however. I see you have two more now correspondents from here, Dot—namely; Snowdrop Queen and Elfleda.. I know both", of them very well. Elfleda is Kuramekea's sister.. I will draw to a close. With best wishes to all mv correspondents, not forget- • ting yourself —Yours truly, THELMA (Wr.itahuna Gully). Dear Dot, —As it is raining today I thought I would take up the pen and write to tho. page. I have a lady friend coming dov,m to eta'y with me for a week. If I was old enough 1 would go and nurse the wounded eoldicrs. My mother and father are busy getting ready for Mutton Bird Island. About a week s<*o I got a letter from brother Fred at the front. Jt is quite a long time since I have seen a loiter from Mihi Moana in the page. I received the badge, and was very pleased to get it My two sisters and I go out. in a* boat fishing. We get tho paper only once a week, and the mail is- the same. With kind; regards to all of the. D.L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly. ' FERNDALE (The Neck, Stewart Island). Dear Dot. —As I pen these lines I am seated in the clnhroom staring at the inkstand and tablecloth seeking inspiration. Before I go any farther. Dot. you mustknow that our clubvoom is situated in a narrow arcade, and that just opposite i? a large cafe. The spacious dining room of this cafe is frequently let for socials, dances, etc., and with our windows open wo get an uninterrupted view of the proceedings. As-1 uit here a large party of musicians are prettying for a grand practice, so I am hastening to get this let tor finished before the harmonious (?) sounds of music disturb tho tranquil passage of my pen. Please don't think from this that 1 am not fond of music; fat: from it. But you will admit tua,t it u

toot exactly pleasant to listen to a full orchestra a few yards distant when you are at the most difficult of all tasks—composing 'a letter. By the way, if Bumble Beo seea jthia letteT It might interest her to know that curiosity was at the highest pitch regarding Postman Henry'e 85-page work of art,- the reading of which gave him a most pleasant how. I wonder if the writing of It fave the sender any pleasure. I'm quit© sure 'd have to take a week off after such a i strenuous effort. I had a rare piece of luck the other day. I struok an Old Writer, and

had a ploosant half-hour's chat. If you study your Old Writers' batch of letters you will probably find one from Gramophone. Among other DJL.F. reminiscences be told me about the photo page which ho to look eagerly forward to. I was wondering if It would ever be revived, I am sure that plenty of L.F. would gladly contribute to the photo page. You could depend on the " Timaru trio " for exe. This letter la quite an effort for me length—in fact, X might oven be able to handle & correspondent Boon, but 85-page lettera are barred. Well, I must now close.

"With kind regards to yourself and all the L.P.j—Yours trulv, BEONCHO BILLY (Thnaru).

[Who knows what' may happen when we have put the Huns in their proper place' Fox the present the thing is impracticable.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band? I am 15 years of age. I have four brothers and four sistera. My father has 400 sheep and 450 lambs. Stewart Island is a very pretty place. Tourists go out in launches. My brother, who is away to the war, is in the hospital in Egypt. I have one brother and two cousins away to the war. I shall have to close now. With love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, ISLAND GIRL (Stewart Island).

[Certainly you may join us-, dear. I hope you will be able to give ua in some of your letters some description of the part of the island where you live, or of paTts yon know. I am sure it would interest other L.F. who have never visited the island. —DOT.] Dear Dot,—As it is now some time since I last wrote to the old page I think I will once more pen a few lines. I think the commonest tcpio of conversation in these parts ia the weather, and I think those persons who discuss it have good reasons for doing so. There has been no good rain here now since the spring. Of Course, we have had one two fair showers between times just to keep our pecker up, I suppose, and everything has become very dry and barren. The poor sheen and cattle in some places are just nibbling away at the dry earth, and consequently have become very poor in condition. But never mind. To-night it is again trying to rain, so we all hope it continues ior a few days. I daresay if we all keep smiling wo will get rain some time, and besides, every cloud has a silver lining, so let' us hope for the best. Well, Dot, everything about here is very quiet just now. The new school which was opened last September is going ahead steadily, and the children all seem to be getting on well. They also like their teacher very much, so that will tend greatly to bring them along quickly. Some months ago we started a, Sunday school, which, I think, will be muchappreciated by all, as there was no such thing before, and the children used just to run about home, and Sunday was almost the same as any other day, the only difference being that they had a holiday from school. Of course, the Sunday 6chool is only on a small scale, but perhaps it might get better as it goes on. Isn't the war terrible, Dot I I often think of the poor boys away out there somewhere in Egypt, and wonder how they are getting on. I think we ought to help them as much as we can, for they are all doing their share in fighting for us in New Zealand. Quite a number of men I know have gone away. Some of them have been invalided home, and I suppose many others will have to go before this dreadful war is at an end. I hope you enjoyed your holidays at Christmas and New Year, Dot. I enjoyed mine immensely, although I didn't go away anywhere. There were friends staying at our place, and they helped to keep us lively. On Christmas Day 20 of us gathered together for our dinner. It was jrtst like a big picnic, only we had our big dinner. A picnic was held here on Boxing Day. The day was bitterly cold, and there were several showers, but we all went, and had a pretty fair time in spite of the elements. On New Year's Day we, along with some other friends, went to the breakwater in Oamaru. The day was beautifully fine, so we all made the best of our time. We were all out to enjoy ourselves, and, my word, we did. The time we had there seemed all too short, and we all arrived homo tired, but very happy, after our day'3 sport. Several sooials have been held lately either to farewell soldiers or to welcome Lome returned ones. I have been at one or two. I like dancing very much, and think it is good_ amusement once in a while. I don't think it would be very good if a person were to go to every social or dance that came along though, do yon, Dot? My sister, Queen of the Carnival, had a pet lamb which she called Jimmie, and he was such a nice animal. He was sold on Tuesday, and it seemed quite quiet without him for a while, Grizzel, my brother, is still working in the post office at Oamaru, and is getting on well there. He- comes home every Saturday night, and goes back again on Monday morning. Often one of hia mates comes out with hirm, anct they go out shooting together. The other day they shot 48 rabbits, so they did very well, didrrt they? The rabbits are very plentiful about here just now. I suppose it is became of the dry weather. I think my two youngest sisters, Coral and Cynthia, wrote to you last week; but it is some time since Queen of the Carnival and Grizzel wrote to the page. I like reading the D.L.F. letters. Whenever I get the Witness I always turn to that reading first. I think some of the D.L.P. write lovely letters. I often wish I could write like them. Well, Dot, I am sure you will be wondering when this uninteresting letter is coming to an end, so I will stop. With love to all the Little Folk, not forgetting your own dear self,—Yours truly, PBISCILLA (Ardgowan).

[I trust that you 'will soon have a downpour of rain 3n North Otago. It must be terrible to see poor beasts going back from laok of food. I nope your Sunday school will flourish,—DOT.]

Dear Dot —This Is our first letter ijo the page. Uay we join your happy band? We are both in the same class at school* Wa live over five and a-quarter miles from the school, and to-day w© rode our bike's and yesterday we rode our ponies. "We would" rather live- in a town than in the country, wouldn't you, Dot? Every morning when we get up we have to go round the sheep, but since they have been shorn we do not have to go round them so often. We are milking two cows. WelL Dot, as newa ia scarce about here, I think I must close now* With love to all the D.L.F., —Yours truly, TWO LITTLE SCHOOLBOY^ (Wondonside). [Certainly you may join us. I hope you will be able to continue sending a joint letter.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I will tell you about m 7 Christmas holidays, and hope you and all the D.L.F. spent a happy Christmas and New Year. The first two weeks I stayed at home, but I had a good time riding a bicycle all over the Hutt. In tho evenings I taught Princess Oeorgina to ride, but did not succeed very well. After Christmas I went into Wellington to stay for two weeks, and visited every picture thentre. in town. Then when I came home we all went down to Petone Beach to spend the rest of our holidays. One day while we were on the beach a lady and a girl got out of their depth, and it happened to bs the lady who could swim. She kept tho girl's head out of the water as long as she could, and sang out for help, but could not make anyone hear. They kept on crying out, "Help! We are drowningi" I heard them crying out for help, but took no notice till they sang out, " Help! Wo are drowningi" I ran up tho beach and told a man that two ladies were drowning. He came up, but he could not help, because ho had just come out of the hospital. Our boat was in the shed, but as it would take too long to get it out, and as there was another boat in the water, we got our own oars and rowlocks, and my brother and I just started

to row out to them when they found their footing and walked ashore. We used to go in swimming from 10 o'clock in the morning till 7 o'clock at night, but that day I did not go in till the afternoon, and that is how we did not hear them at first. The crops of potatoes are nearly all affected by the blight, and as for the tomatoes, the birds pick them, and they cannot be taken to the auction sale®. I forgot to say that I was > very glad to get back to school, but I don't think Princess Gcorgina likes going back. As I have no more to say I must close.—Yours truly, THE BUSY BEE (Lower Hutt).

[Delighted to learn that you and your brother_ had the presence of rnuid to go to the assistance of those who were apparently in danger of being drowned, though, fortunately, you were not called upon to drag them into the boat. The event was quite a feature of your holiday, which you will long remember.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Just a few lines to a-sk you if you will accept me as one of the members. I often read the page, and I think it is very interesting, and I am sure everybody! who reads the letters enjoy them very much. The weather is dry up here, and it has been a very bad season for the farmers. The bathing season is- nearly over. During the season we often go in for a bathe, aawe are very close to the river and also the sea. In the summer time visitors come out here for their _ holidays. There were quite a number of visitors staying here this summer, but as the holidays are over, the visitors have left. I must bring this to a close now. With kind regards to the D.L.P. and yourself,—Yours trulv, DAPHNE II (Oamaru).

[Yon may join us, dear, but as there is a writer from Galloway who has appropriated Daphne, you may either adopt another penname or you will have to be content with Daphne lI.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —As I see other children are writng to you from this district, I thought I might join the D L.F., too. Dad is the bead master of the Wairoa School. I am in the Seventh Standard this year, aa I got my piofioiency certiiica-te. I am 13 years old, and am the oldest in the family. We have a big orchard here. We get the Witness every week, and I like to read the D.L.P. letters very much. I find some of them yeiy interesting indeed. If I send you money in stamps will you please send me a badge? I know that a cousin of mine in Otago is a correspondent to Dot's column under the name of Mudgrubber. Two years ago I had a very enjoyable time camping out on the beach a-t Opoutama. Some schoolboys were there besides my brothers and sisters, grandfather, a/untie, and my mother and father. One thing that spoilt our holidays was that most of us were suffering from the whooping cough, and it is not a very pleasant thing when one is out camping and wants to have a happy time. lam learning music now, and this is my third year. Isn't this a terrible war, Dot! It does not matter where anyone goes, everybody is talking about the war, Well, Dot, I must close now. With love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, CLYDE (Wairoa, H. 8.).

[Very pleaded indeed to have another member from your distriot, where I believe quit© a number of the residents carrno originally from Otago. I am looking forward to receiving letters of interest from you.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —As it is quite a long 1 time sinco I last wrote to the page, I thought I would like to write to you to-night. I did not go anywhere for my holidays at Christmas time. The weather up here is very dry, and it is blowing to-night. It was partly through seeing "White Maple's letter in the Witness that made me write again. The last books I read were " Jacob Faithful," " Torn Sails," and " Neither Storehouse Nor Barn." Looking at last week's Witness (the D.L.F. letters) my eye" caught sight of a letter written by The Heavenly Twins. I thought it was suoh a nice little letter. I shall close now. With love to White Maple and all the other D.L..F., —Yours truly, WHITE CROCUS (Blackstone Hill). [I hope you will make an early appearance in the spring, dear.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I meant to write to you weeks and weeks ago, but I kept putting it off until now, when I find I have a good deal of spare time. The last three days have been just splendid for harvesting. I was out stooking for a while one day, but it would take a good deal of practice before I could become anything good at it. I have been having sorne splendid rides on horseback lately. One day my brother and I rode to a school picnic at Willsher Bay. It was just a lovely day, and we joined in with another two riders, and had a decent go along the beach. We have a fair crop of turnips to thin this year. One day I hurried up with my washing of the separator, etc., and off out to the. turnip paddock. The moment I brought mv hoe down on the drill I heard the 8 o'cloci horn from. Ihe freezing works 10 miles away. I was punctual for once. I have just been reading the L.F. letters, and was greatly amused at Dewdrop's letter. Anyone knowing anything about cows would appreciate that letter. During the last 10 weeks I missed but one day in getting up and getting in the cows and horses. I always took our doggie Flo with mc, for I was quite lost without her. If I did not have her with me the cowa would just stand and stare at me till I got behind them with my manuka stick. I noticed a letter in the Witness from Ardwell. But where has Pukete got to this long while, also Bata Vine? Well, Dot, 1 must close, With love to all the L.F; and yourself^-Yours truly, IVY DIAMOND (Port Molyneux). [•Stooking is far from easy work, dear. I am glad you are able to have a nice gallop on the beach now and again.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Just a few lines to say that I have secured another ineinbor to join the page. Sno came to see me to-night just as I was going to writo this, and the result was thai she had to do the earn©. "We had some very heavy rain _ last night, but it was needed badly, especially for the farmers. Last Saturday w* had our picnio at Waihola. It was very dull in the morning, but later on in the day it turned out beautiful. Wasn't that a terrible accident, Dot, about that little boy being hilled. It just happened before our tiain arrived. Well, dear Dot, I shall close now, as news is scarco to-night. Love to all the L.F., including your own dear self, —Yours truly, MARSEILLAISE (Dunedin).

[I antl pleased you have induced a girl friend to join. It is always nice to have some interest in common. That was a terribly sad accident at Walhola, and the boy's death co very sudden. —DOT.]

Dear Dot,— May I join your happy band. The weather is getting much colder now, and tho days are drawing in also. My sister is going to a picnic to-morrow, bo I hope she has a fine day. I went last Saturday to one with Marseillaise. We work in the same place together. Do you like-cats, Dot? I am very fond of them, especially little kitten* I have three sisters and two brothers; the youngest being two months old. He is such ft dear woe bnoy. Is not this war dreadful, Dotl It doesn r t seem if it ia going to

end. I had a cousin killed at the war. He comes from Australia. Well, dear Dot, I must stop now. With best love to all the Ul< and accept the same yourself,—Yours truly,

ROSELLA (Dunedin). [Yes, you may join us, dear. I love wellbehaved kittens. Wo have one just now winch plays and wrestles with a young spaniel m a moat amusing fashion.—DOT.] AUTOS. Strawberry Leaf (Lilian Neave, 14 Beach street, Port Chalmers) wishes to renew correspondence with Indian Pirate and any D.L F. willing-. J F'T, k- Moen > Waitahuna Gully, via Milton) wishes to correspond with Post- ?,.??' I T' y ' Almtio Tim& ' Moana, White i™L p 9g*a»«n. and any D.L.F. over seven J ears. Prompt replies. M^Sl a ( Y k % K Ge ° °™ of Mrs Gray, MBrido street South Dunedin) wishes to correspond with any L.P. willing. NOTICE TO CORRESPONDENTS. Writers to the D.L.P. page are particularly requested to note immediately the address of any writer inviting correspondence or an exchange- of autos when they have any intention of responding to the request, PERSONAL. All D.L P., and especially those who knew her, will be sorry to learn that Taieri Belle it 1 I n tho hospital, but pleased to learn that she appears now to be on the fair way to a splendid recovery. She was able to get up the other day—the first time for five months. Her sister, Pride of the Market, an old writer, was good enough to supply tho information.