THE EMPIRE'S CALL.

Otago Witness, Issue 3254, 26 July 1916, Page 45

THE EMPIRE'S CALL.

HEW ZEALAHO'S lEBPBIISE PROGRESS OF RECRUITING. A SURPLUS FOR THE NINETEENTH REINFORCEMENTS. THE REGISTRATION FOR THE TWENTIETH. The Rt, Hon. W. F. Massey, Chairman of the Recruiting Board, supplies the following information:— The registrations for the Nineteenth Reinforcements, which mobilises for training this week, show a Dominion excess of 98 over normal requirements. The official figures of the. enlistments for the infantry — all other arms of the service being full — as at date of Friday, the 21st inst.. are as follows: —Auckland military* district, an excess of 1; Wellington military district, an excess of 75; Canterbury military district, an excess of 32; Gtago military district, a shortage of 10;—or a total Dominion excess of 98. At the same date 1158 infantry had registered for the Twentieth Reinforcements, which i c due to mobilise for training at the end of August. As the normal requirement of infantry for each four-weekly draft is 116 men. the present registrations for the Twentieth leave a shortage of 658 men to be found in the coming month.

The Anzac troops are now taking a glorious part in the stirring deeds of the present great Western offensive, and it is not necessary for me to remind every fit

and eligible man in the Dominion of the urgent call that daily comes from his comrades and fellow-citizens in France to step forward and fill the gaps in the ranks. We read that, the Germans arc wondering how great are the English reserves, because they "know that, the continuance of our offensive will depend on our reserve strength. Let the military manhood of this Dominion, by keeping up a steady flow of reinforcements, demonstrate; to_ the enemy that our reserve force, is sufficient to continue the offensive until a definite victory is achieved. It will be a truly glorious achievement if we can maintain our flow of recruits by voluntary enlistment; but maintained they must- * be, whether by the voluntary principle or by bringing into force the compulsory powers contained in the Military Service" Act. TUNNELLING CORPS. WELLINGTON. July 19. In the House of Representatives to-day the -Minister of Defence read a letter from the High Commissioner regarding the Tunnelling Company, which he said was doing excellent work. The men had proved themselves equal, and even superior, to the enemy. CANTERBURY ENLISTMENTS. CHRISTCIIURCH, July 22. A report issued by the Canterbury District Headquarters' Office this morning showed that the following men have been secured in Canterbury military district for infantry drafts of undermentioned reinforceSments:—(Nineteenth Reinforcements, 444; Twentieth Reinforcements, 325; Twentyfirst Reinforcements, 126; Twenty-second Reinforcements, 80; Twenty-third Reinforcements, 45; Twenty-fourth Reinforcements, 29. In addition, 13 men are fit and available to be called up for service at 14 clays' notice, under Category B, and 228 applicants have yet to be examined. All other branches of the service have ample supplies of men. GOING TO THE FRONT. On Thursday evening the employees of Mount Royal Station gave a farewell social to Mr Allan Douglas, who is leaving for Trentham for his final training preparatory to going to the front as a lieutenant. During the' evening the manager of the station (Mr W. Murray) presented Mr Douglas with a silver wristlet watch and a case of pipes as a token of the respect in which he is held by the station employees. On Wednesday night a most successful concert and dance was held at Momona under the control of the local Patriotic Committee to bid farewell to Privates J. and A. M'Neill, J. Nichol, J. Warren, and R. Sprott, who are all on final leave from Trentham. Mr Amos resented each of the men with a fountain pen, pocket book, and sovereign case A smoke concert was held by the employees and neighbours of Wilden Estate, Moa Flat, on Friday evening, to bit! farewell to Mr Hugh Shields, one of the employees, who is leaving for the front. During the evening the manager (Mr G. R. Young), on behalf of the employees friends, made Mr Shields a presentation 6T a gold albert and pendant and a case of pipes, and expressed the sentiments of the employees towards their comrade, and wished him God-speed and a safe return. Several others also spoke in a. similar strain. Mr Shields's health was drunk with musical honours. RECRUITING ON THE WEST COAST. CHRISTCHURCH, July 24. The Greymouth group area reported to headquarter.' this morning that it had reduced the shortage in its infantry quota for the Nineteenth Reinforcements to six men. All tiie other group areas have'had complete quotas for some time. SIXTH MAORI REINFORCEMENTS. ' AUCKLAND. July 24. The Sixth Reinforcements of the Maori Expeditionary Force paraded through the city to-day, and comprise Lieutenants Gardner and Woodward and 90 non-commis-sioned officers and men. They were accorded a farewell at the Town Hall. MARRIED SOLDIERS. WELLINGTON. July 21. Aii inquiry whether he thought a soldier with seven children, t!v> eldest being only 9i years of age, should go to the front was' addressed "io the Minister of Defence to-dav by Mr Thomson.

The Hon. Mr Allen replied that he had discouraged such men going as far as was possible without a definite prohibition. There were cases, however, where men enlisted and made provision for the children, and those could not be stopped. In future the decision of the Cabinet not to accept men, with more than three children, except under special circumstances, would bo adhered to. SOLDIERS' CHILDREN. WELLINGTON, July 19. In the House _of Representatives this afternoon the Minister of Defence stated that the Cabinet had agreed to increase the allowances to soldiers' children up to five children from 3s 6ci per week to 5i pen week. This would come into force as from July 1. The Cabinet had also decided that married men with more than three children would not be allowed to enlist under the voluntary system except under special circumstances. LODGING ALLOWANCE. It has been decided by Defence Headquarters, Wellington, that /the lodging allowance of 2s per diem payable to men on sick leave from cutnp shall be given only in the case of men to whom such sick leave has been granted by the medical authorities in camp (says the Wellington Post). It shall not be paid to men who are away on ordinary leave when the sick leave is granted, as it is found that some men obtam sick leave as an excuse for overstaying their ordinary have. HECBUrTS FROM CHATHAM ISLANDS. CHRISTCHURCH, July 18. ' Major Bernau, who had been sent by the Government to tie Chatham IsiandsA to inspect likely recruits, returned to-day. He said that about 50 men had come forward, all of good physique. Major Rornau will report the result of his mission to the Government. NIUE ISLANDERS WELLINGTON, July 21. In replying to Poole in the Housa of Representatives to-day, the Minister of Defence said he did not think it wise to allow any more Niuc Islanders enlist in the reinforcements. The climatic conditions were against them, and while tho experiment had been useful, he did not think it should be continued. The Raratongans, however, were all right. GIFTS FOR SOLDIERS. AUCKLAND, July 21. About two tons of butter have been donated by 16 dairy companies in the Auckland province lor- presentation to units of the New Zealand Forces, for whom regular supplies of fresh butter are not available. This quantity represents the response to an appeal by the Mayor some weeks ago, as the result of a suggestion by Captain G. R. Hutchinson that a supply of butter would bo extremely welcome. Since tho letter was written the Main Body of New Zealand Forces has been moved to France, but a section of the force is operating in a* region where the gift will be appreciated. One of the difficulties in tho matter is that of securing the shipment of the butter to its destination, but Mr Gunson has written to the-. Minister of Defence inquiring whether cool space can bo obtained. NEW ZEALAND ARMY LATEST PROMOTIONS. ON THE FIELD OF HONOUR. MANY N.C.O.'S GET COMMISSIONS. Amongst the appointments and promotions of officers serving at the front are the following : OTAGrO EKCMEXX. Captain (temporary major) Charles Erio Andrews, New Zealand Stall Corps, to bo major, dated March 1, 1916. Captain (temporary major) Francis Henry Lampen, New Zealand Staff Corps, to bo major, dated March 1, 1916. Captain (temporary major) Duncan Colquhoun, to be major, dated March 1, 1916. The undermentioned lieutenants to be captains, dated March 1, 1916:—Lieutenants (adjutant) Daniel Erie Bremner cNew Zealand Staff Corps). Dudley Ilarcourt Sheppherd Buddie, Wm. Gibson . Allan Bishop, Ralph Howison Nicholson. Eric Buckingham Alley, Allen Henry Wright. Lancelot well' Jenninqg (Q.M.). Henry Robert Ker, Louis Goh'art Wilson, Peter Mackenzie. The undermentioned second-lieutenants to be lieutenants, dated March I.l9l6:—Secondlieutenants Wm. Francis Tracey, Frederick Milroy. Thos. Giihnan, John Elliott Cuthill, J. G. Johnston. M'Kenzie John White, John M'Pherson, Walter Keith Dougall, Alex. Smith Falconer Thos. Fiizpatriek. Malcolm MTherson Watt. The undermentioned non-commissioned officers io be second-lieutenants, dated March 1. 1916: —B/872 Sergeant Archie Gordon Henderson. 8/121 Acting Company Ser-geant-major Dominic Joseph Walls, 8/1735 Sergeant Wm. Patrick Fordo. COMMISSIONS IN IMPERIAL ARMY. The following members of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force are the nominees for commissions in the Imperial Forces for May, 1916:—4-509 Sergeant P. M. Hasina; 2-647 Gunner J. M. M'Kenzie; 11-284 Corporal N. S. Hyslop; 7-424 Lance-sergeant G. G. Rich; Trooper F. G. Ford Hutchinson. Wellington Mounted Rifle Regiment. The following ehon:s the names ot tno candidates who passed and the number of marks obtained at the special examination tor first appointment to commissions, held at Featherston in May last: —Sergeant _J. H. Harney, New Zealand Army Service Corps 1221; Sergeant V. 11. Potter, New Zealand Army Service Corps, 1179; Regimental Sergeant-major F. G. Love, New Z< aland Army Service Corps, 1300; Ser-geant-major C. G. R. Jackson. 12th Reinforcements. 1206; Sergeant-major F. L. Murray, 14th Reinforcements, 1102; Sergeant 0. Deans, 14th Reinforcements, 1036; Sergeant R. G. G. Westenra. 12th Reinforcements. 599; Sergeant R. C. Chapman, 14th Reinforcements, 952; Sergeant A. Evans. 12th Reinforcements, K'so; Sergeant 11. M. Rorke, 13th Reinforcements, 1009; Sergeant O. L. Ferens, 13th Reinforcements. 967; Sergeant R. Le C. Latter, 14th Reinforcements. 954. The maximum number of marks was 1800, and the minimum required to pass 9CO

• RETURNED SOLDIERS. RECEPTION IN WELLINGTON. WELLINGTON, July 18. The returned men were welcomed at a civic reception this morning. Amongst those present were Cook Islands and French soldiers who arrived by the Maitai this morning. DISCHARGED SOLDIERS. A statement issued by the Discharged Solc'iers' Information Department shows that on July 19 there were 5159 men on the register, as 'follows; —Disposed of, 3265; under action. 1138; not ready for action, including men returned by recent transports, 756. Of 3950 reports issued, 3721 had been received from interviewing officers, and 229 were still in the hands of the officers.

The following particulars of cases are given:— (A.) Cases Disposed of—(a) Left Now Zealand or cannot ascertain address, 119; (b) re-enlisted or returned to military duty, or have work to return to, etc., 1323; (c) men who have signed "assistance not required," 839; (d) men placed in employment, 730; (e) men who have not responded to repeated communications, and men who have accepted work tho department found for them but failed to start work, 148; (f) men who have drawn sections of land, 106. Total, 3265. (B.) Cases Under Action.—(a) Reports upon cases not yet returned by officers making inquiries, 229; (b) awaiting further advice (chiefly men who have stated that they aro not desirous of work), 558; (c) at present on employment wanted register, 351. Total, 1138. . (C.) Cases Not Ready for Action.—Men recently returned to New Zealand, now convalescing, not ready for employment, and net vet discharged by the military authorities, "756. Grand total, 5159. There are seven unplaced men in Wellington district, 56 in Dunedin, 43 in Christchurch, and 51 in Auckland. HOSPITAL SHIP MARAMA. A cablegram was received in Dunedin on the 18th stating that the New Zealand hospital ship Marama had arrived at Southampton a few days ago. MILITARY SERVICE BILL THE RELIGIOUS OBJECTOR. AGREEMENT REACHED BY PARLIAMENT. WELLINGTON, July 21. In the Legislatice Council this afternoon tho report oi tho second conference of the managers of both Houses on the Military Service Bill was received. The Hon. Mr Paul contended that no relief had been afforded to the Christadelphians, some of whom were prepared to give their lives rather than yield up their conscientious principles. The report was adopted. In the House of Representatives the Speaker announced the result of the second conference with the managers of the Legislative Council on the Military Service Bill.

The Prime Minister explained that the confereifcc had come to an agreement along the following lines: —The amendments in clauses 6 and 8 were of no great importance, but ensured uniformity in the action of these clauses. They now provided that the "Governor-in-Council should do what the Minister was previously empowered to do. In subsection 4 of clause 18 a most important amendment was made, under which the service to be performed by a religious objector was not limited to New Zealand. The clause now read as follows: "(4) A Military Service Board shall not allow any appeal on the grounds specified in paragraph (e) of subsection 1 hereof, unless the appelland shall signify in the prescribed manner his willingness to perform non-combatant work or services, including service in the Medical Corps and the Army Service Corps, whether in or beyond Now Zealand, as may be required of him at such rate of payment as 1 may be prescribed." In subsection 1 of clause 18, combatant service was substituted for military service. Considerable discussion followed. On a division being taken the report of the conference was agreed to by 44- voles to 18. OPPOSED BY GPLYMOUTH UNIONS. GREYMOUTII, July 18. Taking concerted action, the Waterafders' Federation and Seamen's Union and the State Miners' Union took a secret ballot on the question: Are you opposed to the Conscription Bill? The voting was: Affirmative, 292; negative, 109; informal, 3. Majority against the Bill, 183. ENDORSED BY WATERSIDE WORKERS. WELLINGTON, July 20. The Prime Minister has received the following telegram from the president of the Groymouth Port Waterside Workers' Union : We, the members of the Greymouth Port Waterside Union, endorse the. action of the Government in passing the National Servico Bill, Wo consider it the best and fairest method of reaching eligible portions who should serve their King and Empire. —(Signed) James M'Kinley, president." PERSONAL NOTES. Mr Morrison received a cablegram on Monday from his son, Lieutenant Morrison, conveying the pleasing intelligence (says the correspondent of the 73alclutha Free Press) that he was not seriously wounded. A Gisborno Press Association telegram states that Lieutenant E. R. Black cables from England that his brother, Lieutenant G. H Black, was killed on July 14 whilst assisting wounded comrades. Lieutenant Black was a local shoepfurmor, and was married to Miss Strand, of Palmerston North, shortly before leaving for the front. Mr J. W. Reid, of Napier, has received word from the War Office thai his eldest 6on, Lieutenant J. L. Reid. died on July 16, from wounds received in action. Mr G. S. llanos, of Gisborno, has received the intelligence (says tho Poverty Bay Herald) that his nephew, Lieutenant Neville Seymour, wont down with H.M.S. Queen Mary in the groat battle off Jutland. Tho officer was a son of the Rev. L. Seymour, and a nephew of tho late Admiral Seymour. Private John Johnston, who left with the 9th Reinforcements, and was killed in action, was a popular young man in the

Browns district (says tho Winton Record). He took an active interest in every movement, and proved himself a capable secretary of many Browns functions. As manager of tho Browns Dairy Factory he did excellent work, and the directors were sorry to lose him.

Lieutenant George Massey, of tho Imperial Field Artillery, whoso death in action is reported in our cables, was a son of Mr H. A. Massey, late of Invercargill, who is at present in London. Lieutenant Massey was educated at tho Waitaki Boys' High School, and was later coached locally preparatory to entering a military college in England, at_ which he obtained a lieutenant's commission in the Field Artillery. Captain Charles Campbell May, who has been killed, was the only eon of Mr Charles May, of Dunedin, who was in the MayOatway firm. Mr May was formerly in the telegraph service hero, and was in the Engineer Corps under Major Beal, He is now with tho Army Service Corps in Egypt. His son, Captain May, went to London and joined the King's Colonials, and then received a commission in the Manchester Regiment. Ho was about 28 years of ago. He married in England, and one child is left with the mother.

Major D. B. M'Kenzie, of Gore, who left with the Main Body of the Expeditionary Force, and returned to New Zealand last year in command of the invalided soidicrs by trie Willochra, has cabled to his wife stating that he will leave London for Now Zealand o n July 27. _ Major M'Kenzie, after spending somo six weeks at home, returned to tho front in September in command of tho Maori Contingent and was appointed to tho 2nd Infantry Brigade on arrival in Egypt. Ho has participated in the fighting in Franco since April. Mr A. S. Patcrson, of Dunedin, has been advised that his eldest son, Lieutenant John Rutherford Patcrson, has been wounded. Lieutenant Paterson, who is 30 years of age, and unmarried; left with tho Sixth Reinforcements. He is an ex-pupil of the Otago Boys' High School, and a graduate of Otago University, having taken his B.A. degree in 1906. lie was an active member of°thc Otago Hussars, and assisted in the conduct of his father's business prior to enlisting. Mr John Bcgg, of the Milton Dairy Factory, received advice by telegram on tho 20th that his brother, Private James Alexander Bcgg, of Otokia, previously reported dead, is alive and in hospital in London. Private Begjr was wounded in the fighting at Gallipoli on August 7, 1915, and shortly afterwards .was reported as having succumbed to tho injuries received. Apparently some mistake arose, and naturally the soldier's relatives aro highly pleased at the unexpected information after mourning ono whom they regarded as dead. CAPTAIN JOLLY. Captain W. D. Jolly, who has been killed in action, was one of the best-known men on the goldfields. He managed the old merchant business of D. A. Jolly and Sons, Cromwell, established in the sixties by his father, Mr D. A. Jolly, now resident at Musselburgh. Captaiii Jolly, like his father, was an enthusiastic volunteer, and then a Territorial. Ho felt that the country had need of his services when tho war broke out, and, in spite of home ties of the very happiest kind, he offered his services, and was at once accepted. Captain Jolly never missed a Territorial camp, and strove hard to attain efficiency. His men may truly be 6aid to have been deeply attached to him. He was the sort that men would follow anywhere. As a public man he gave his services willingly. He wis chairman of the Cromwell School Committee for years, and superintendent of the Presbyterian Sunday school. Ho led the agitation for the new public school, and presided over the opening function, when the late Mr Israel declared the fine modern building- open. Captaiii Jolly leaves a wife and five sons and a daughter. They will have, the heartfelt sympathy of the whole Upper Clutha Valley. Many an old hatter about Bannockburn and Nevis, which places ho visited regularly, will sorely miss him. A brother of Mrs Jolly, Commandant Waddell, is fighting with the * French army, and has received the Legion of Honour for conspicuous merit, while another brother has just returned invalided. No better sport than Captain Jolly ever rolled up a howl or handled a golf stick, and his brother-golfers and bowlers will deeply regret his death. It is safe to say that the whole of Cromwell and surrounding district will mourn his loss, and that for Mrs Jolly and the children, and for his brothers, and sisters, and father, the deepest sympathy will be shown. Our Cromwewll correspondent states that the town and district were overshadowed with sadness on receipt of the official intimation on Friday that Captain, Jolly had been killed in action in France. Universal sympathy is felt for his wife, six young children, and his relatives. LIEUTENANT HUDSON. Lieutenant Athol Hudson (9th New Zealand Reinforcements), killed on July 14, on the western front, was the New Zealand Rhodes scholar for 1915, and the news of tiiis tragic termination of a brilliant career will bo widely deplored. Ho was one of the six sons oi tho late Dr James Hudson, of Nelson. Five of the sons enlisted for active service, the sixth being still at Waitaki High School. Lieutenant Athol Hudson had a singularly distinguished career, culminating in the school cluxship, and a University Junior entrance scholarship. At Victoria College (Wellington), 'when he elected to carry on his science course under Professor Easterheld. he rapidly made his mark. In spite of serving with the Samoan Contingent and dislocating thereby his University course, he gained tho B.Sc. degree in 1915 and tho Senior scholarship in chemistry. On his return from Samoa he at once enlisted for further service, and topped the 60 candidates for a lieutenant's commission. Prior to his departure from New Zealand, he was unanimously elected Now Zealand Rhodes scholar {or 1915. The Victoria College Magazine-, on tho eve of his departure, spoke of him n& tho ideal Rhodes scholar, and paid a high tribute to the modesty and unselfishness of his University career. Among Waitakians feays the Oamaru Mail) he was held in high esteem, and there will bo deep and widespread regret that he has boon stricken down on the very threshold of a splendid career of usefulness. CAPTAIN BAIRD. The Southland Times states that the Rov. James Baird has received a very interesting letter from his son. Captain J. Bruce Baird. R.A.M.C., lately in practice at Kai-

tangata, describing his visit to Buckingham Palace on May 10. when ho received the Distinguished "Conduct Medal from his Majesty the King. According to the Gazette notice, it was awarded "'for conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty from September 25 to 27, 1915, when in charge of different bearer sections collecting wounded in the area between 'Lone Tree and Hulluch road under shell and machine gun fire." Captain Baird was a lieutenant at the time, and won not only the D.G.M., but also promotion to the rank of captain. Captain Baird is at present in charge of an ambulance train conveying wounded from the Flanders front. CAPTAIN GREER. Captain S. C. Greer, of the Maniototo Mounted Rifles, who has leased his farm and is shortly going into camp, leaves Patearoa (our correspondent writes) with the respect and good wishes of all who know him. An ardent student of military matters, he has risen through the various grades in his regiment to his present position, and, after taking a leading part in all local and district patriotic movements, has made the way clear for the • coveted step which will enable him to take an active part in the great struggle. An all-round sportsman, Mr Greer has represented the county in football, and has taken a keen interest; in cricket, having been a generous supporter and president of. the local club for a number of years. Rifle shooting matches have also found a keen advocate and participator in him, while various committees, including the local branch of the Otagd Farmers' Association (of which he was for some time a most efficient secretary) will miss his valued services as a practical business man. At <a largelyattended social the other evening, Mr Greer was presented with a purse of sovereigns with which to purchase a memento of the occasion. The chairman (Mr M'Skimming) and Messrs M'Atamney, P. Bleach, and H. Cleugh made apt speeches, and all expressed the hope that Mr Greer would come back to his native place safe and sound. Mrs Greer was also presented with a number of useful articles in recognition of her work on the ladies' committees, of which she has been a prominent member. There was a programme of songs, recitations, dances, and refreshments. PRIVATE RANKIN. Amongst those reported as killed during the past few days was Private Joseph Kankin, "fourth son o'f the late Mr John Rankin, formerly engineer at the Mosgiel Woollen Mills, and a native of Mosgiel. Ho left New Zealand with the Bth Reinforcements, from Morrinsville, Hamilton, where he was manager of the local cheese factory. While in Mosgiel he played for Taieri Rovers, and later on for Stirling. Ho received a medal from the latter club as the best back of the season. He was a member of the Druids' Lodge. On receipt of the sad news the flags on business places in Mosgiel were hoisted as a, tribute to his memory. PRIVATE TAYLOR. . The news that Private Lionel George Taylor, only son of Mr and Mrs G. 0. Taylor, of Takapau, Hawke's Bay, and until recent years a resident of Lawrence, had been killed in action in France was received with sincere feelings of regret (writes our Lawrence correspondent). The deceased was born in Lawrence, and was educated at the local District High School (where he had a fine scholastic record). He entered the public service as a cadet in the Lawrence Magistrate's Court, under the late Mr A. M. Eyes. After spending several years in that office, ho was transferred to Christchurch, and subsequently to Wellington, where ho enlisted, and left with the 11th Reinforcements. He was a particularly fine type of young man, and during the last few years of his residence in Lawrence took an active part in the social life of the community, being connected with the football, tennis, and golf clubs. Prior to the inauguration of the Territorial defence scheme, he was for some time a member of the Tuapoka Mounted Rifles. THE OTAGO BIPLANE FUND. The following subscriptions have been received :

SERBIAN RELIEF FUND. THE OTAGO DAILY TIMES LIST. Previously acknowlcdcd ... ...£1652 710 Waitahuna Patriotic Committee (per Mr J. H.'Uren) 5 0 0 Total £1657 7 10 BELGIAN CHILDREN. The secretary of the Education Board lias received the following additional contributions from schools in Otago for the Belgian Children's Fund:—Previously acknowledged, £3lO Is lid; Tokomairiro, £ls; Balclutha, £l3 Is id; Palmerston, £7 5s 3d; Katea, £5 17s 3d; Purakauiti £5 3s; Oamaru North, £4 0s 6d; Clark's Flat, £3,155; Te Houka, £3 15s; George Street, £3 153 6d; Morven Hills, £3 7s; Upper Junction, £2 18s 6d; Ravensbourne, £2; Glonkenich, £1 15s; Waitati, £l;—total, £382 15s. The secretary of the Education Board has received the following additional contributions from schools: —High Street, £23 10s; Tan-as, £l9 13s 9d; Cromwell, £8 Os 4d; Lovell's Flat, £5; Lower Harbour, £4 5s 6d; Rae's Junction, £4; Mornington, £4; Otepopo, £2 10s; Duntr.oon, £1 10s; Miller's Flat, £1 8s; Mount Stuart, £1 7s 6d; North Taieri, £1 ;—total to date, £495 18s 6d. OTAGO AND SOUTHLAND WOMEN'S PATRIOTIC ASSOCIATION. A meeting of the committee was held in the Early Settlers' Hall on the 19th inst. Accounts amounting to £282 13s lid were passed for payment. Mis Butterworth gave details in connection with the garden fete, which is to be held during the first week in August in the Brydone Hall. Mrs Brown will take charge of the tea rooms, and to assist her in the organisation ladies who intend sending donations of cakes are requested to let her know by post-card to the Early Settlers' Hall as soon as possible on which day, from August 1 till August 5, she may'expect their donations. During the week 380 kit parcels were packed and forwarded to Wellington to bo distributed on board the transports to the men of the Fifteenth Reinforcements. Numbers of dominion gift parcels were also made up. The equipment for the Sixteenth Reinforcements is well on the way to completion. MOONLIGHT-MACRAES PATRIOTIC SOCIETY. The ladies of Moonlight-Macraes Patriotic Society sent away to the Early Settlers' Hall for the month of June the following articles: —9 pairs socks, 4 balaclavas, 4 flannels, 1 suit pyjamas, 40 service bags, 30 soap bags, 20 pillowslips, 30 tea towels, 17 handkerchiefs, 4 bandages, and half of the proceeds from a patriotic concert (£5 18s 6d). The collectors brought in £2 3s. THE BERWICK WOMEN'S PATRIOT,C ASSOCIATION. The members of the Berwick branch of the Otago Women's Patriotic Association are working well. A considerable quantity of work is given out each fortnight. The goods sent to the Early Settlers' Hall since the beginning of June were: 127 handkerchiefs, 153 soap bags, 197 service bags, 16 balaclavas, 4 pairs socks, 7 tea towels, 5 housewives. WAIKOUAITI SOLDIERS' CONVALESCENT HOME.

The Otago Soldiers and Dependents' Welfare Committee has received the following report from Miss Mollison:—"I came into the home on June 29, assisted by Mrs Mollison and Miss May Mollison, and later by Miss Rule and Miss E, Caldcr. There wore eight men in residence when we arrived. Since then two have been discharged, and their places have not been filled. Captain Fleming and Dr Lyth paid their weekly visits to the home, and found everything satisfactory. Donations have been received from the following:—Mcsdames Kerr. Goodall, Cairney, Neil, M'Tamney, Falknor, M'Gill, Orbcll, Ballantyne, Beckett. Napier. Burnside, Nickell, Aitchison. Heckler, Maxwell, Johnston, Messrs Toomey, Manning. Souter, Misses Bray, Dunbar, Stewart, and M'Phee." NAVAL DEPENDENTS. An entertainment was held in the Moeraki Coronation Hall on July 14 in aid of the Navy Dependents' League. The public responded most generously. The programme took the form of a social and dance, and resulteS in £2B being gathered. Mr W. Nicholson (Mayor of Hampden) presided, and oncned the social with a few wellchosen remarks. The school children, under the co,ntrol of the teachers (Mr Woods and Miss Smith), sang the National Anthem and "Britain's Glory." Songs were also given by Mrs Davis, * Mr Woodley, and Mr T. Tipa and Mrs Hitchcock. Some interesting features were placed between the dances. One was the sale of a splendid pet lamb, presented by Mr P. Hampstead. After being resold several times, it realised £ll 7s. The Maoris gave a haka in fine style. They also sang "It's a Long Way to Tipperary " in Maori. Miss T. Culling escorted four nicely dressed little children round the hall with tho flag, and gathered in several coins. Dancing was indulged in till an early hour. Refreshments were provided by the ladies. PATRIOTIC CONCERT AT EAST TAIERI. The Riccarton Hall was filled to overflowing on Saturday night, when an entertainment was given by the St. Leonards Magpies in aid of the _ East- Taieri Ladies' Patriotic Sewing Guild. Mr A. Miller presided. The programme submitted was on the linea of that given by tho same company recently in Mosgiel, and the audience thoroughly appreciated it. At its close a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the performers on the Chairman's motion, while Mr Douglas proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies whose efforts helped so much to further the interests of tho Red Cross League. FAREWELL SOCIAL AT TAIERI MOUTH. A farewell social was tendered to Signaller F. Milne by the Taieri Mouth Patriotic Committee in tho hall at Taieri Mouth on Wednesday evening, July 19. Signaller Milne, who was down on final leave, is a member of the Sixteenth Ho was born and brought up in the Taieri Beach district. The chairman (Mr Mowat) presented him with a safety razor on behalf

of tho committee and local residents, and the recipient suitably responded. Dancing was the order of the evening, and musical items were contributed by many of those present. Supper was provided by the ladies. The singing of "Aula Lang Syne" brought a very successful and enjoyable evening to a close. JOTTINGS. Twenty-four men from the railway works at Tahora, in response to a telegram from the Defence Department, have offered their services (says the Stratford Post) in the Tunnelling Corps. Writing from France, an Oamaru boy says: "Wo have been in the firing lino closo on three weeks now. I am living in the cellar of a house (disused through shell fire), quite a little peach of a show that will do mo for a while. Nearly all the houses are shot away in the neighbourhood. There are some civilians still living in the vicinity, however, and every now and then the Germans lob a. shell in among them for spite. One nearly got me yesterday. I heard a pretty sort of whistling note, and made for the side of a brick wall, just in time to see the shrapnel knock up the yard where I'd been. They fired four shells and then knocked off. 1 made a record sprint for our old cellar."

Mr M'Alister, secretary to the Hon. W. Fraser, has received advice that his eon has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant, and transferred to the trench mortar branch. He took part in both Egyptian campaigns, and is now in France. Major Fulton (New Zealand Medical Corps) will accompany to Trent-ham, as medical officer, the men of the 19th Reinforcements leaving here on Thursday. Out of a total membership of 2300 in the first, division of the railway service, over 500 have so far' answered the call of the Empire (says the New Zealand Herald). This fact was mentioned at the meeting of tho Railway Officers' Institute on Monday evening.

A Jotter was received on Thursday from Surgeon-captain Rae M'Rae (son of Mr J. M'Rae). an old Timaru boy, who Js engaged in a casualty clearing station behind the firing lino "somewhere in France." Great activity in the O.C.S. was going on as orders had been received to get ready at once to accommodate 1000 patients. This letter was written early in June. Forty-five teachers from tho Wanganui. education district have proceeded to tho front or arc now in training (says tho Herald), and 10 others have notified their intention of enlisting. Five of their number have fallen on the field of battle.

Whilst a Gisborne soldier was wandering through a military cemetery in the North of France recently (says tho Poverty Bay Herald), he came across a tomb bearing the inscription : "In memory of C. C. lies, Lieutenant, R.A.M.C. Died of wounds."

The British Australasian reports:—The wedding of Trooper T. M'Alpine, Otago Mounted Rifles, Woodcote Camp, Epsom, and Miss Lillian Irwin; Garratt lane, Tooting, was celebrated on Empire Day. The comradeship of the Anzacs expressed itself in tho shape of useful presents to the bride and bridegroom (travelling bag and lady's workcase). The presentation was made in camp, Sergeant-major Hadfield and Quartermaster Robinson presiding, and the gifts were presented by Private Cecil Duke, A.I.F. Trooper M'Alpine, who is the son of Mr J. H. M'Alpine, Hamilton South, has been in England since Aug-ust. 1915. The Hawera Star says that a local settler has just received word from a New Zealand soldier, now "somewhere in France," that he has received, in a batch, 45 letters sent to him from New Zealand. Some of them had been addressed to .him to Samoa, some to Gallipoli, and some to France, and have at length reached him. Some of them were dated as far back as February, 1915. A patient at present in the Auckland Hospital is to be tried by court-martial upon his discharge on a charge of. desertion from the ranks of the New Zealand Tunnelling Corps. It is stated that prior to the departure of the corps from the dominion the man disappeared from his unit. He was afterwards located at Gisborno, arrested, convoyed to Auckland, and admitted to the hospital there._ Tuna is only a small place.; six miles from Stratford, eastward of Midhirst, but the people claim to be as loyal and patriotic as any can be (says the Post). The roll of honour of the school at Tuna shows that 17 pupils have so far gone to the front, or are in training at the present time. Besides these, presentations have been made to 10 others, who were not pupils of the school, but who enlisted from Tuna.

In Wellington there is a woman with five children whom the War Relief Association is helping (says, the Dominion). First of all, her husband went to the war and left her to fight the world alone. She had to seek assistance, and this she received. The other das the association's representative called to sec how she was faring. She found that a girl of 12 was laid up with a sprained ankle; that a boy of nine had contracted measles and pneumonia ; and that a boy of seven had a poisoned hand. Five of the sons of Mr George Chartens, of Mangatoro, are now serving with the King's colours. Two ejdisted at Dannovirke, two in Gisbornc, and one in Dun©din. . . Among the passengers by the Maitai which arrived at Wellington from San Francisco, via ports, on Tuesday (says the Post) was a Getman subject who Mas brought from Rarotonga for internment. Another passenger who arrived by the vessel was a man who refused to answer questions put by the United States authorities to those wishing to land, and who was therefore compelled to return to New Zealand. A CANTERBURY OFFICER'S LETTER. EXCITING EXPERIENCE IN THE DESERT. An officer, writing from Romani Camp under date May 25 sends to the Christchurch Press the following account of the work of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles in the Sinai Peninsula:— Since Christmas we have been about three months on patrol and garrison work out in the Sinai Desert. The rest of tho time- wo have been in reserve on the Egyptian side of tho canal. Wo have to do a tremendous amount of travelling about, and it is quite second nature to us now to shift camp. We are becoming quite like tho nomad Arab tribes wo have been amongst. A few weeks ago the brigade got sudden orders to pack up and march, to relieve a

part of the line that was being attacked. Wo wero in a reserve camp at the timo enjoying the privileges of a canteen and the proximity of civilisation. At 5 p.m. wo got orders, and by 10 o'clock next morning we marched 35 miles through heavy sand, and wero in position. This country is intensely interesting, abounding with old Roman ruins quite up-spoiled-by tourists. The natives themselves are quite a different race from the " Gippics,' - and we constantly see phases of native lifo denied to the average traveller. Practically the entire population on this side of the country is now interned. Most of the Sinai is absolute desolate waste—wave after wave of sandhills,—but the centre and south arc high, rocky ranges, sloping gently down to sea level on all sides. Along the Mediterranean coast, where we are at present, the surface is for about 10 or 15 miles inland on a line with the ocean, or, rather, the valleys are. Water can be got in any of them, of a sort brackish to nearly fresh. This district is a mass of salt lakes in winter, but now they are just mud-flats, very treacherous, too. Date palm groves are in every valley, each grove supporting a few natives; they also graze goats and camels on what little vegetation there

is. . , The fighting out hero this year has been confined to a raid last month by about 1500 Turks and a few raids by the colonial mounted troops. A few days ago the Canterbury Mounted Rifles and the 6th Light Horse had an experience they are not likely to forget. They were sent out to reconnoitre the country about 25 miles to our front and to capture parties of Turks reported out there by our 'planes. As luck would have it. the localities proved the hottest wo have had this summer. Starting at mid-dav on the Monday, wo trekked out about 12 miles, and rested until _ dawn. Then, splitting up into three parties, we marched'to our respective destinations. My squadron, the Ist, had to patrol about eight miles to the south, into the high sandhills. 'All our work was over by about 10 o'clock, and, having drawn a blank, wo watered at the only available well. This well was in a deep hollow, bare of any shade. It consisted of an old Arab well and several recently made by the Turks, and the water was indescribable in smell, colour, and taste. The heat since about 7 o'cloqk had been intense, and all water bottles Were empty. Many of the horses owe their lives tc this well. About 10.30 we set off for our rendezvous, about 8 miles. Will any of us forgot that ride? A blazing sun and a scorching hot •wind, every part of one's skin seemed to be cracking. Mile after mile we ' plodded on, to stop was fatal, and our only hope was a steady pace and to grin and bear it. At last, in the distance, we could see the palm trees of our destination, and a cheer went up. A mile or ed, and we were at the well. The scene here was beyond description. No one who ha 3 not suffered thirst can understand it. Men drank with their horses the brackish water out of the canvas buckets. And one bucket did not satisfy some. The look on some men's faces I nover wish to see again. All parties got back to the palms about the saine time (2.30), but many stragglers wero left behind. On all sides men were prostrated, and there were many cases of sunstroke. All we could do was to throw water over them until they came round again. About 25 men out of the regiment, and many Australians, had to go to hospital. Wo still wear our slouch hats, and would not give them up. None of us blame thorn in any way. Wo were praised by the general for our behaviour, and he remarked that no "other troops would have stood the ordeal so well. Every one of us is hoping to strike a blow soon for his country, but will we get the chance? Perhaps we colonials are too impatient, but I think it is a good fault. For tho last few days wo have had a grand breeze off the sea, and we are all feeling fit r.gain. NEW ZEALAND'S TRIBUTE TO FRANCE. PRIME MINISTER'S MESSAGE. WELLINGTON, July 18. In reply to a request by the London Chronicle, the Right Hon. Mr Massey has sent a message on behalf of New Zealand expressing affection and admiration for our French comrades. Ho refers to the fact that our men are fighting side by side with the gallant sons of France, and pays a tribute to French chivalry and courage, heroic endurance, and patient self-sacrifice, and concludes by paying homage to the dead. He says their fame is as imperishable as their deeds are immortal. To France and her dauntless army, to our other Allies, and to our own British soldiers we say, "Fight on, victory is certain. God will defend the right." ALIEN ENEMY COMMISSION ATJSTRIANS IN THE NORTH. AUCKLAND, July 18. Tho Alien Enemy Commission sat at Auckland to-day. The bulk of tho evidence pointed to the Austrians in the north being loyal to British rule; that they were not in possession of arms, had not been drilling, and were not a menace to the community. Mr Powell, chairman of the Hokianga and Mangonui County Council, said that he had lived for 20 years in tho north of Auckland, and while; there were many Austrians there as loyal as Britishers, there were, on tho other hand, many traitors. He had seen Austrians on a Sunday prior to war hoist tho Austrian flag and go through drill, and considered they were a menace to the community, and that they interfered with recruiting. ALIENS' COMMISSION. MR FELTRIM'S DENIAL. AUCKLAND, July 22. Before the Aliens' Commission, F. W. Feltrim, director of Parenga Company, and former manager, denied that he left Parenga because an Austrian found he had made misrepresentations as to possibilities of tho field. COLONEL RHODES'S VISIT TO EGYPT.. • REPORT BEFORE PARLIAMENT. VALUABLE WORK ACKNOWLEDGED. WELLINGTON, July 21. In tho House of Representatives to-day tho Minister of Defence laid on tho table Colonel Rhode s's report on his official visit to Egypt, Gallipoli, and Malta. He moved that the report bo printed. Mr Wilford spoke appreciatively of the

work dono by Colonel Rhodes, saying that the information sent to New Zealand was a great comfort to parents, who prior to his visit to Egypt were in grave doubt to certain matters, which Colonel Rhoo.es was able to set at rest. Messrs Witty, Buddo, Young, and El also spoke in eulogistic terms of Colonel Rhodes's work. Dr Thacker complained that no one had seen the report, no one knew what was in it, and no one was in a position to discuss it. . Mr M'Callum said that whatever Colonel Rhodes reported as to the postal arrangements in Egypt he would no doubt concur in it, but he hoped that Mr M'Ourdy would not be degraded hi his position in the service. Though not perhaps the most experienced officer, he worked extremely hard, and overcame almost insurmountable difficulties in getting the mails to Gallipoli. Ho was really deserving of the thanks of the country for what he did. Colonel Rhodes said that in his report he paid a tribute to Mr M'Curdy, who would not suffer in consequence of any recommendations of his. He thanked members for their kind tributes, and specially wished to place on record his appreciation of tho devotion of his secretary (Mr Crow), who, even usder fire, never relaxed his assiduity. Tho Minister, in reply, said Mr M'Curdy would not suffer in his position, but Mr Holdsworth, the senior officer of tho Postal Department, was leaving shortly for France to take charge of tho postal arrangements. He spoke in tho warmest terms of the unselfish work done by Colonel Rhodes, whose report was a most valuable document. Tho report gives in great detail full particulars, of the work done and the inquiries made, and shows that much valuable work was done in improving the conditions of the men in regard to postal and hospital matters. Some 13 special matters were referred to Mr Rhodes for his consideration, and under each heading detailed particulars are given of the inquiries made and the action taken. In reference to the special funds for the care of the sick and "wounded. Mr Rhodes says that these funds wero administered by special committees at Cairo and Alexandria. This formed the beginning of a good working system, in which New Zealand was easily first in the field in setting an example which was later followed by other countries. New Zealand also initiated a system by which men in hospital could secure extra comforts by drawing against their pay up to 3s a week. Upwards of 120 visits were paid to sick and wounded convalescents, and everywhere nothing but good was heard of the men from medical officers, nurses, and others. Attention was also given to the graves of the dead, and a scheme would be submitted later for the beautifying of the Anzao zone. This scheme was prepared by Mr W. Draper (director of the Egypt : an Government Gardens at the Delta Barrage), but Mr Rhodes comments that obviously Mr Draper had never visited Gallipoli, and he thought personally that the place should be kept as much as possible in a state of nature. OUR BOYS IN LONDON NEED OF A HOSTEL. £2OOO WANTED. "Great need hostel accommodation New Zealand men in London ; may we spend £2OOO your account, make provision?— Howard Williams, chairman Overseas Committee British National Council." This cablegram was lately received by the New Zealand National Council of the Young Men's Christian Association from the association's British National Council. In the face of such a statement and appeal, the New Zealand Council could only reply sending the money without delay, and trust to the people of New Zealand to endorse their action by making the expenditure good. •Mr W. H. George, of Messrs Kersley and George, Wellington, has undertaken to placo the position before the public, and is touring New Zealand at the present time on this mission. Mr George is a member of tho National Council of the association, and is peculiarly fitted to make an appeal on it 3 behalf, for he returned only six weeks ago after a six months' absence in Egypt investigating all the activities of the association there. Mr George went at his own expense as a special commissioner from the New Zealand Council, and was accompanied by Mr W. G. Jamieson, of Christchurch (president of the council). While there he secured in addition to information in tho ordinary shape of photographs and printed matter, no less than 4000 ft of kinematograph film, illustrating the daily life of our men from the time of their entering Trentham to the time they loft Egypt for France. WALTON ON THAMES HOSPITAL. Mr Sinclair Thomson, writing from Walton, to acknowledge the sum of £2OO cabled to hiin by Mr F. 0. Bridgeman, says: "I have opened an account with London Coimty anil Westminster Bank here, and given Captain Dalston authority to sign as lion, treasurer, 'Duncdin Special Fund.' We will use the money wisely, and only whero we think it is wanted and deserved. Some boys who have had their sight injured at Gallipoli have to get expensive glasses, and as the War Office is not too generous in giving frequently tested glasses, wo will see that such cases are helped out of your special fund, and that useful comfort and friendly assistance is given whero wanted. I cannot tell you how much the response to my letter is appreciated, first by me, and second by all the staff at the hospital. I shall report from time to timo what we have_ done, and meantime please convey to friends who subscribed my warmest thanks for their generous support. It is well to have lived in Duncdin, and to have learned what sincere friendship is." Mr Bridgeman has remitted by bank draft £54 in addition to the £2OO cabled, and suggests that in view of the heavy casualties that may bo expected from now on to the end of tho war, further help might be given from Otago to provide comforts for the wounded at the Walton Hospital. He will bo pleased to receive any further contributions to bo remitted, say monthly, to Mr Thomson for this special fund. Y.M.C.A. SECRETARY IN ERANCE. LETTER FROM MR TIISLOP In the course of a letter dated April 22. Mr llislop says: "We arrived at Marseilles on April 12. Four secretaries left

Egypt "with the troops who were moving at the beginning of the month—three Australians and one New Zealander. Green, Arthur, and Beauropaire went with th<; Australians, and I came on with the New Zealand men. Since our arrival we have been moving _ about, and have not been settled. I_ think we are just about fixed now, but it is hard to say. There is not much opportunity for work, as the men are scattered all over in a 12-mile radius. There arc a few billeted in each village. I am still with the Ist Otago Battalion. M'Gowan is chief man in France, and I have made all arrangements with him for equipment. The only thing now is to' get a place for our work. This is rather difficult, as the military people have secured all the available ground. I am in touch with General Russell, and he thinks that I will not bo able to do anything for a day or two. Something will turn up as socn as the men got settled. We are not able to do anything unless the authorities sanction it, and that makes it rather difficult, as they are seldom in a hurry. I visit the men in their billets every day. and keep in touch with them as much as possible. I think the men .will be moving nearer the firing line soon, and then I may have a better opportunity for work. I was within four miles of it the other day, and saw an anti-aircraft, gun shelling a Taube which was flying over the town. We are able to get close up to the line now with our buildings, and have the opportunity of serving tho men practically on the spot where they are fighting. One of our buildings had three shells through it the other day, but no one was hurt. I think we will be able to have a good work going here, but we had a much better opportunity in Egypt. The voyage from Egypt was a very pleasant one. We had an exceptionally fine boat—the Cunard liner Franconia. We had a 56 hours' train journey from Marseilles. It was rather tiresome, but nevertheless pleasant. The green fields were very_ nice after the dry sands of Egypt. We passed through Paris during the night, and wo did not see anything of it. Wo were in camp nearly a week, and now we are in billets. It has been raining and snowing since ever we came, and the men are feeling the cold very much. The food has boon rather scarce. Some of tho men were rather badly off tho othei night, and I gavo them £1 to buy some broad, etc. There are one or two things I should have written you about ore this, but unfortunately I overlooked them. " Since writing the above I have been to Calais, and made arrangements to have equipment sent on. Transport is one of our greatest problems. Military stuff must always be sent on first, and sometimes our stuff »will bo at a station days before it can bo sent on. I have managed to secure a sitting room in my billet, and each evening I have about half a dozen men in and we have a short Bible study, and then have a talk. I have secured a number of English papers, and the men are always eager to see them. Tho Anzacs are getting a great reception here. I believe tho Australians are doing things at the front. While in Calais I cabled to Cairo for three more men, and hope they will be here by the end of the month. Word came through on Sunday that one of our huts at the front was burnt down on Saturday night. A shell came over and set it going. Tho man in charge had a narrow escape. There was also a gas attack tho same night, and one of our secretaries got enough to make him peedy for a few days. Wo have all got gas helmets. New Zealand weeklies, are much needed, and T am thinking of sending Brownell a cablegram asking him to send on some." LETTERS FROM TEE FRONT LIFE IN THE TRENCHES. A CHATTY CORRESPONDENT. Tho following interesting extracts, dealing with life in the trenches in France, are taken from the letters of a sergeant with tho New Zealand Forces to his parents in Dunedin :—■

"1 was just waiting for some paper to turn up, when, at luncii time, as luck wouid hav.\ iv, up turned your parcel of soup, cocoa, and a wad of paper, 'ihe soup and cocoa tablets are 'bon,' and, as you can guess, will be keenly appreciated. Sergeant V , who shares tins dug-out with myself and another sergeant, also received a parcel this morning from England, containing cocoa tablets, and, above all things, half a dozen hard-boiled eggs. Wo afo them for lunch, and enjoyed them immensely. Tho wails of our dug-out, which is a fairly decent one, are of galvanised iron, tho roof water and bomb-proof, and the lloor boarded and dry. Tho entrance is just large enough to crawl through, "The trenches are floored and dry, and the tucker good —what better conditions could we have ? 1 nearly forgot to mention our friends the rats; millions of them, some such beauties, too; almost as big as cats. As soon as it is dusk they run about in shoals. it is absolutely impossible to keep them down. "When the aniseed powder arrives I shall try it. The 'live stock' certainly do thrive on Keating, but this has ite good point—it seems to fatten thorn to such an extent that they are much more easily found. I am sure you would bo amused to sec us at times, stripped to tho waist, and busy with our singlets.,

Speaking of his first actual experiences iii the trenches, the writer says: "You can imagine what my feelings were on initiation, expecting something from nowhere; not excited, but a trifle nervy. I well remember at first passing through the 6:t 6in trenches, head clown and body bent, and scaling past what appeared to be low or dangerous places. This did not last long—the sight of the old hands stalking unconcernedly about soon reassured us, and before the day was out we, too, were walking at cafic. All hands have to stand to at 8.15 p.m. and 2.15 a.m. for an hour, and it is during and between these times that things are liveliest. "Last Wednesday evening (May 17) there was a Lit of excitement. At o p.m. the foghorns started sounding (poisonous gas alarm). Immediately tho order came down to stand to with gas helmets. We all made for our posts and wore our helmets turban fashion, so that," in tho event of gas coming over, they could ho lowered at once. Tho South Africans, further down tho line, caught it slightly, but, as far as we were concerned, it was merely an alarm. "The cooking arrangements in the front line arc really splendid —each platoon of about 40 men has its own cook and cookhouse. Coke braziers are used, as smoke fuel would mean a shell for tho cooks. "We have had three casualties lately. The first—a very unfortunate affair—happened

like this: Reliefs were being changed'; the old sentry challenged the now sentry, who did not answer. The old sentry shot the new one dead. The second one was duo to shell concussion; a man was sitting in his dug-out, when it was blown in., Tho fellow wont t.o hospital. The last was an accident: A man blow a bullet and a 'pullthrough' through his own arm." "This afternoon we wore paraded, when a piano circled above us. Anti-aircraft guns had a go at it, and, though there* wore shells bursting all round it, tho aviator seemed undaunted. After having a good screw at us he sailed off, as we thought, to convoy our w-herea-bouri to a 'Boscho' battery. Wo picked ourselves to bo shelled this evening. It appears, however, that this plane's life was short, one of our shells gett:ng it a few minutes after, bringing down the machine and killing the aviators. "Beyond being a bit sleepy at times, trench life agrees with mo—in fact, it will do no one harm." PRISONER IN TURKEY. A letter was received a few days ago by Mr Surgonor, of Manaia, from his brother, Private Surgonor, who was captured by tho Turks in the early part of tho Gallipoli campaign. In the first part of liis captivity Private Surgenor, with Australian, English, and French soldiers, was quartered close to Constantinople, and was given frequent opportunities of visiting tho city, under armed escort, of course, but suffered no m harsh restrictions. In his letter just received Private Surgonor says he is now further back in the country, and is one of a gang of 30 men. Previously ho had boon at navvy work, but now he is rock drilling,' and receives a wage of Is 9d a day._ This, at a moderate calculation, he says, is equal to three times that money in New Zealand. For instance, ho says he can buy chickens in the villages at 4d each and eggs at 4d a dozen, other things being correspondingly cheap. The squad of prisoners in which he is employed have a cook at a weekly wage, and a.s ho is a master at his business, they live well. They are allowed a good deal of liberty, and are permitted to visit the neighbouring villages. They are provided with good clothing both for winter and summer wear, a«d have nothing to complain of. CARE'OF THE WOUNDED. A 'DUNEDIN SERGEANT'S EXPERIENCE. Tho relatives of soldiers who are "wounded at the front in Franco may be reassured that the injured are in good hands. The subjoined letter, from Sergeant J. S. Scoullar, to v his parents, may tend to allay the apprehensions of fricjids who know nothing more than tho bald statement in the casualty list. In tho published list Sergeant Scoullar's injury was stated to be a wound in the thigh:— 26th General Hospital, North France. 26--5—1916. I suppose it will come as a bit of a surprise to you at homo to hear of my getting a "crack." WeU, I managed to ue unfortunate enough to get it on Tuesday night last—that would be May 23. I was very fortunate, indeed, at being let down so lightly. I got a "belt" in the inside of the right knee with a piece of high explosive fresh from one of "Kaiser Bill's" b,g guns. I was carrying my rifle, and it saved me a great lot as it was broken to bits, and, of course, it broke the blow. We wore just entering the sap, and there had been very heavy artillery fire all night from both sides, with the consequence tiiat a small building on our left was afire, and threw a light on us, of course, making a good mark tor the enemy. They sent over showers of high explosive and shrapnel, and it is a great wonder we were' not all put out. Ono poor fellow near me had his head blown oif; another an arm, and has since died; but tho only thing that I got, was a very small piece on the inside of tho knee. It is not at all bad, and I will be "0.K." again in a few days' time. My knee is very stiff. but there' are no bones •"broken that I can see. They put me under the X-rays here this morning. I am sure there is not much the matter' with my log. I was carried to the dressing station, but we were shelled out of there, and was moved to another, and stayed there the night. Next day was sent to'a Canadian hospital per motor ambulance, and stayed there the night, and yesterday morning was sent by a.._hospital train to this place. Was in tho train about nine hours. They arc well fitted up with beds, and are very comfortable. Arrived hero about 11 p.m. last evening and had a wash and my clothas off for the first time for a week. I did enjov it, I can tell yon,— especially tho wash. Hero I am in a bed with nice clean sheets, and a nice nurse, who cannot do enough for a man. They would soon spoil me, I am sure. Had quite a nice young lady to-day who even washed my feet and cleaned the nails of my toes. They are really too good altogether. Of course, their kmdness is appreciated, even if a little embarrassing at times. My wound is really a very slight one, so please do not worry at all. Reallv. they should not telegraph to New Zealand about wounds as they only worry you people. Still I suppose you would want to hoar of it. FOOD PRICES IN BUDAPEST. The Magyar Orszag recently published tho present prices of the principal foods in Budapest, and compared thorn with corresponding 'prices at the outbreak of war. Thes"

Previously acknowledged ... . ..£1563 16 11 "Sympathisers" 5 5 0 J. B. Thomson 1 10 0 The Primate of New Zealand . 11 0 Miss J. C. Gray 1 1 0 W. Pyle, St. Bathans ... . 11 0 Mrs Harrison 0 10 0 " Waikouaiti Soldier's Friend' 0 10 0 "A. D. A." 0 5 0 Mrs Marett Total 0 5 0 .. £1575 4 11 THE OTAGO PATRIOTIC FUND. Previously acknowledged £22,141 6 0 Pupils Saddle Hill School ... OTAGO PATRIOTIC AND a 0 5 0 GENERA! . WELFARE ASSOCIATION. Total to date £239,084- 0 1 THE OTACO DAILY TIMES LIST. Previously acknowleded £22,141 11 0 Employees in Sargood, Son, and Even's warehouse ._ Total ... A 2 2 0 £22,143 13 0 BELGIAN RELIEF FUND. Previously acknowledged £26,332 16 7 Trustees of John Douglas ' estate, Mount Royal, proceeds of sale of stray cattle (per Mr S. Beck) 15 7 6 Proceeds of concert by Mrs Webster's children's concert party, Palmorston (per Mr S. Bock) 13 14 0 "Geras" 5 0 0 Miss Daisy M'Ritchie, Palmorston, proceeds of sale oi E flowers (per Mr S. Beck) ... 2 11 8 Waitahuna Patriotic Committee (per Mr J. II. Urcn) .„ 5 0 0 Employee's of D.S.A., monthly contribution £1 13 6 D.S.A., subsidy on above 1 13 6 3 7 0 Employees in Sargood, Son, and Ewen's warehouso 2 2 0 Thos. Davcy, Walton Park, monthly contribution 1 0 0 "Warepa" Total 0 12 0 £26.381 10 9

are as follows :— August, 1914. Mar. 191(1 Veal, per lb Beef, per lb Smoked beef, per lb ... Pork, per lb Lard, per lb 9(1 8d to 2s 4d 3; 10J fid to Khl fid 3s 8d ; 4d to 4s 2d 3s 4d ■Is 5d .'is Flour, per lb Oil, T>er litre Best cheese, per lb ... Liptau cheese, per lb ... Snlnm sausage, per lb Sugar, per lb Soap, per lb 2d lOd Is 3d 7}d Is 8d na 4rt to sa 4?,d 7s 2d 2s lid 2s fid 5s 10.1 fid 2s Gd OofToc, per lb Is Rd 5s in-i Fowls, each Is 8d to 2s fid 5s to 7s 6d