LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK.

Otago Witness, Issue 3276, 27 December 1916, Page 60

LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK.

Motto:—We write for the benefit of others, not for ourselves. No letter to contain more than 450 words. Dear Dot, —I suppose that the many friends I have among your L.F. will be wondering whether I have attained the age limit and gone to the front, or whether I have forgotten there is such a page as the page in the Witness. It would not surprise me if they thought so, fox it is ages since I last wrote. I was pleased to see in the Old Writers’ Week the nom de plumes of a few old friends of mine who, I think, must have entirely forgotten me. I hope that this will serve as a reminder to some of them that I am still alive. Well, Dot, Christmas is almost here again; but will it be a- Christmas like thoso of former years? There will be many vacant chairs around the festive table, and many a prayer will go forth to the noble sons who are fighting so bravely for our freedom. I suppose that everyone is_ aware now of the appeal for money for the Belgian Children’s Christmas Appeal Fund, and I hope that the people of New Zealand will rally round and contribute something to the happiness of the children of thoso noble men and women who suffered so much for the freedom of the world. Would tlyj members of our L.F. remember them while they are enjoying the Christmas, and place their little bit in the envelopes provided. Kemember, that if it were not for the heroic sacrifice made by the Belgians we New Zealanders would not have been able to have the luxuries and festivities which we are looking forward to at Christmas. Let us see how much we can gather for this great fund. Let us make a little sacrifice to help these bravo people who have sacrificed so much for us. Well, Dot, 1 suxapose you were wondering when I was going to stop; but when I think of the suffering and sacrifices made for us by the Belgians, I feel that we cannot do enough for them. Well, I shall have to close now, sending Christmas and New Year greetings to you and all your D.L.F., —Yours truly.

HORATIO (Rangiora). [I join with yon, Horatio, in hoping that there will be a liberal response in every household to the appeal made on behalf of the poor Belgian little folk.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —1 was very jjleased to see mv last letter' in print. I am waiting for the picnic to come, as I was at the other one, and it was very nice. A motor lorry was on fire last night, and a man had his arm burnt. Dove to Timaru, Mountaineer, and all the L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, ERIC SOMEBODY'S BOY (Timaru). [I sincerely hope you have a good day and an enjoyable time at the forthcoming picnic, Eric—DOT.] r Dear Dot, —Here I. am again in Timaru after having a right royal time in Bunedin. I was tempted to go in to see you, but never reached that far, as I thought yon might be busy. Well, re the picnic oii January 2, the billeting particularly, I wish it made plain that all L.F. who would like to avail themselves of a couple of days in Timaru are free to come. A carnival will be held on the Ist, so come for that day as well. The billeting is for the benefit of such as E.A.M., who cannot return in one day, but who conies one day, say, Ist, and stays till 3rd, mind, free of cost at a temperance board-ing-honse. I would like Timaru D.F. to rally round and come in good numbers; also Pairlie, Albury—now, Snaky Joe, you come, —Oamaru—in fact, everyone who can possibly come. O.W.'s are especially welcome. All who intend to come from a distance please write me as soon as possible to ensure rooms. Please bring a cup if possible; also remember the usual way—ladies a basket, boys fruit and lollies. Tea provided. Meet at post office at 11 a.m.— Yours truly,

POSTMAN HENRY. Henry E. Beach, letter-carrier, P. 0., Timaru.

[Those L.P. who intend availing- themselves of the generosity of the Timaru I».P. are asked to communicate with Postman Henry. —DOT.J Dear Dot and Comrades, —Time seems to be flying past on swift wings. One can hardly imagine that Christmas is near, but when you hear of holidaj's, etc., it reminds you of good time 3 to come, though one doesn't feel much like having a good time nowadays. Most of my comrades will have forgotten there is such a person as yours truly; but I am very much alive. I don't know if you will accept my " too' busy" excuse for my long absence from the- page, Dot; but it is true all the same. I am having a holiday out on our farm, so I have plenty of time. It is quite a change from Canterbury and town life; but for all that J[ prefer town life and the nor'-westers. I lave taken over the job of shepherd. It is a lovely, easy job just to ride round the sheep to see if there are any on their backs. It's the ride I like. Part of it is through a swamp, and it is simply glorious. It reminds one of some <~,f C4enc Stratton Porter's books—all the different plants and insects. Most of the small plants are out in flower, and oh! such a lovely smell they have. It is a bit of a shock if you are day-dreaming to find yourself in a bog—or, rather, the horse. It is a usual event with me to flounder into one when I am in deep thought about some plant or inscc*. As for the scenery around here, it is grand. It. makes mo very dissatisfied with myself when I try to catch some effects of light and shade to put on canvas. They are forever changing, and each more beautiful than the other. It is evening. The sun is gradually sinking out of sight behind the hills to the loft. The sky is a blaze of gold, and the last parting rays are striking on the snow-capped peaks of of the Remarkables, bringing every peak out sharply against the eky. One could imagine

them only a few miles away. The hills to the right are cast into a d;jep purple shadow, making ihe others look brighter in contrast. Near at hand the birds—thrushes, sparrows, starlings, and hosts of others —are singing their evening songs. 1 must say one misses this in town. Ot course, we have the sparrows, with their cheery chirp; but as for having a fir3t-class birds' concert you need to get out into the country and take a back scat. This was going to be only a short note; but I never know when to atop when I get going on birds and flowers, etc.; but I'll close now in wishing you a happy Christmas, Dot, and all the D.L.F.—Yours truly, M. O. C. (Balfour).

[You make one long for the country and its beauty, M. O. C. I hope you will let us hear from you again soon. —DOT.] Dear Dot,—Since I last wrote I have been very ill, but am now quite well again. 'My youngest brother will be in the trenches now, Dot. Lady Cantrips has left was married about three weeks ago. We have a few vegetables up in our garden, such as carrots, parsnips, onions, lettuce, and cabbage, etc. We have two new cows, and they are both good miikorsv I have only four correspondents. I ohall close now. Wishing yourself a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, —Yours truly, > WILKIN LASS ((Makarora).

[I am so sorry to hear that you have been ill, Wilkin Lass, but delighted to know that you are now on ihe improve. —DOT.]

Dear Dot,— My word, we have been having such lovely weather such as we have not had for years. Well, Dot, some time back we had a friend staying with us, and one day we took the day off, and all Went for a picnic to the Sailors' Best, and I can tell you we did have such a good tune. We went across to the Best in the launch called the Viking. There were 12 of us, and we were all happy, and the sun was shining lovely When we got to the Best my two sisters and I went ashore in the boat, and we did enjoy ourselves. Then we- came back to the cutter Mihi Moana, where all hands were aboard having a drink of tea and milk. Then my father asked my sister and myself to pull the boat round the coast to get some timber, and we did have a good time. We left the rest of the familv aboard the Mlhl fishing. They can't fish. Still, they were trying their best. When we came back we all went ashore, and boiled the billy, and I went back for the rest of our dinner. We had our lunch under the shade of the old Sailors' Best. , What with rowing in the boat, wading in the water, and chasing flounders we did have a good time. Then we made afternoon tea, and got ready for home, which we reached at 6 o'clock. I assure you we were all pretty tired "We like the fine weather best. I had a letter from my brother in France, and it seems he has been wounded. This war is dreadful. A number oi our boys are getting killed. Well, Dot, we will have Christmas with us by the time this letter E*ets printed, and so I shall ring off and fade .away like a dead rose—Yours truly, LONG ISLAND (Stewart Island).

[Judging from the enthusiastic way in which you have written about it, your outing must have been " a perfect day."—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I enjoyed reading the O.W.W. letters, and thought them all very interesting. I thought it was very sad about Welsh Boy s death, and am sure all the L.F. will miss his interesting letters. Our school is to break up in about a week's time, and then we shall have some holidays. The other day I asked Miss Jasmine when she was going to write, and she said she would try to write soon; so I hope to see a letter from her this week. Dear Dot, I am going down to Dunedin soon, and would like to call and see you, but I do not know where to call. Best love to Miss Jasmine, Nurse Cavell, and Anzac Forever, not forgetting yourself and the editor, —Yours truly, AUNTIE'S LITTLE COMPANION.

[On ordinary occasions I can invariably be found at the office, dear; but my annual holiday is due, and I will be taking it shortly.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —A rumour came to my ears that the Old Writers' were gathering together once more to wish you, dear friend, a happy Christmas. As I am too late to offer my wishes with them, I wonder if you can spare a tiny corner for an Old, Old Writer in the Christmas number. When I heard of so many of our dear friends going l across the seas to fight the common enemy, and know that many of even our own Old Writers of former days now sleep on awful Gallipoli, or lie among the vineyards of sunny Prance, I made up my mind (and that is no trivial affair—l mean the making up) that I would emerge from my musty corner and try to fill up one vacancy in the dear old page. How I loved the Old Writers' letters! But I do not expect to see many communications -from the writers of lang syne. They must be scattered far and wide. What joy it would give me to read once more of Sybil Scrybil's dark river, or to shoot over the Canterbury Plain, or roam round lonely Tckapo with B. O. B.! Harry, I think, if still here, is, like myself, a home person. I could recall scores of the old names; but I must not: it brings an ache to rny heart, and I think of a rjoem I laboriously copied out of an old book when quite a little child:

" Sweet, far-awav day 3, will they ne'er come again ? I've .sought them so long, yet I seek them in vain." I waa eight years old when I copied it, and I thought, poor innocent, that I really had seen far-away days. " The thoughts of youth are long, long thoughts indeed; and don't you think so, dear Dot? Well, dear Dot and Little Folk, I must really depart now. The corner is calling me, and fingers get stiff that are not accustomed to ply the pen. After I reached retiring age I know my name was used by others. Still, I wish to be known by no other than your loving friend, —Yours truly, MISS MUFPET. I (Waipori).

[I thank you for your good wishes, Miss Muffet. To look back on our youth when standing on the threshold of life we were so full of confidence in ourselves, so full of great thoughts and plans whereby we were to leave our mark on the world. Viewed from the present, those "•far-away days" are sought in vain truly. After a period of bitter disillusionment I think we are now content just to fill our place inconspicuously and contentedly—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I was very pleased to see that O.W.W. turned out a success. I did enjoy reading the letters. I noticed where a writer (whose N.D.P. I've forgotten) was inquiring after Queen Elizabeth. Well, comrade, I was speaking to her some time ago, and I believe she is still living in Invercargill. You will notice by the above address that I've changed my place of abode. I am now working on a largo station about 11 miles north of Waikaia. It is a very beautiful place in the summer time. The bush, which is just at the back of the station, is magnificent. Oh, and it is frightfully lonely here! I don't think I would ever got used to it. Well, Dot. I was 18 on November 14. I will just have two more years ae an L.F., so will have to make the most of it. By the way I am shaping now I'm afraid there won't bo many letters from me. Since I last

wrote to you, Dot, I have been up to Oamaru. I enjoyed the trip immensely; but tlie stay wasn't half long enough for my fancy. I also met two D.L.F.—namely, Willochra and Ardrnore. Just before I came up here I was down in Invercargill for three weeks, and it was there—or, at least, on the train—that I met Queen Elizabeth. I also met Linnet in Gore. Well, dear Dot, I shall have to close now. Wishing you and all the L.F. a merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous New Year, —Yours truly, LEOLA (Waikaia).

[Naturally you will find life very quiet at first, Leola; but it is wonderful how soon one accustoms oneself to surroundings.—

Dear Dot and Comrades,—Just a line to wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. It is lovely weather here just now; but it has been terribly windy these last few weeks. I am going away for my holidays about, the first week in January, and hope to have three weeks; but I don't know whether I will be able to or not yet. The Queen of the Belgians is coming up on Boxing Day to stay for a fortnight, so I am looking forward to a good time. We are going to have our Sunday school picnic .soon, so I hopo they have it before I go away. I should not like to miss it, as it is about the only nice picnic we have. Kind regards to all the D.L.F. and yourself,—Yours truly, ETJROPENA (Kelso). [I hope you enjoy your holiday, Europena; also that the proposed picnic suits your arrangements. I have posted the badge. Many thanks for vour Christmas greeting.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It is lovely weather we are haying down here. The sun is so hot that it burns the skin off one's arms, especially when one is working out in the paddock harrowing, and uhable to keep a coat on. I wish it would rain soon so that it would lay the dust. Christmas is drawing near. I don't think I will get many holidays this year, as we have a lot of work ahead of us yet to get over. There are the turnips to sow, then the shearing, and before that Is all finished we will have the harvest on us, and harvest hands are very scarce this year. There is no use in saying anything about the war, as I suppose you will have enough of that sort of talk in other D.L.F. letters. I am going to ask you a question, Dot. Do you think it is right for a D.L.F. girl friend to say to you that you should be away to the war instead of letting other men do the fighting for you ? Well, that's what I was told, Dot, from one of the best friends I have had any correspondence with since I started to write to the page, and that is a good long time ago. I always find the letters from Stewart Island very interesting, and I have a good mind to take a- trip over; but I don't quite know yet. I went to the Gore Show, and had a very enjoyable day; but I think only for shyness things would_ have been better, so- I had to put up with it as it was. Then there is the old saying, " Better luck next time." I am now 6ft 8m in my boots, so I am seen among a crowd. With best wishes to Linnet and all the other D.L.F., not forgetting yourself, with a merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous New Year, —Yours truly, NAVIGATOR (Riversdale). [lt was perhaps not very tactful of your friend, Navigator. Some people in an excess of zeal do not stop to think, and consequently are not aware how they hurt others' feelings. I would not worry about the matter; but you could point out that you are under age, and would not be accepted at present.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I feel very happy, as I heard yesterday that I got my proficiency, and my brother got his also. I did not think T would, have got through. There were three in the Sixth Standard, and we all got proficiency certificates. It is very windy to-day. We have been having fine weather lately, and I hope it lasts until after Wednesday, as the school breaks up on that day, and we are having a picnic in the afternoon. We have only three pet lambs, as mine d ; ed. My brother put a piece of red-and-blue ribbon round his lamb's neck, and njine chewed it off, and I think it must have poisoned it. He gave me his anyway, whether the ribbon poisoned it or not. We have a little calf and three foals, and also a number of chickens. My brother cut his foot on a piece of glass, and had to get it stitched. I don't know what it is like, as I have never seen it. He has it wrapped up all the time, and is getting the stitches taken out to-morrow. With love to all the L.F. and yourself,—lours truly, PATTY.

[Congratulations, Patty, on your success. That news should give you zest to enjoy the holidays and prepare for further work next year.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I wrote to you last week, but did not get the letter posted in time, so I am making a fresh start. Last Thursday week the engine went off the line while shunting, and they had to get an engine from Ida Valley to take the train to Dunedin. It left at 1.30 p.m., but they did not get the engine on the line till about 3 p.m. Of course, none of the school children went to Alexandra that day. The Clyde School concert was held last night, and it wa3 very good. The hall was packed with people. We go out to Puketeraki for the holidays; but this year we have decided to spend Christmas in Dunedin, and go to Puketeraki about New iear. We have a house of our own out there, so we can go out whenever we like. It is lovely out there, bathing, boating, and picnicking. Last Christmas we walked to Waikouaiti, five miles away, with some friends, and took the train back again. We broke up on Thursday. I got the second prize in the Sixth Standard (there are only four altogether). The prize was a work-box. I have just finished " Pollyanna Grows Up," and am now reading " Miss Billy." Have you read either of those books, Dot? They are very nice stories. We have had fairly good weather, though rather windy; but it is getting too hot now. I shall close now. Wishing you and all the L.F. a merry Christmas and a happy New Year,— iiours UUlyj IRISH COLLEEN II (Clyde). [I know what a delightful time one can spend at Puketeraki, Irish Colleen, as I have spent several holidays there. —DOT.] Dear Dot,—As soon as the Witness comes in it is to the D.L.R page I generally turn first. I did enjoy reading the Old Writers letters in the two last papers. I think some of them are very interesting indeed. Christmas is just about with us again; but, alas! what a sad Christmas it will be for many who are mourning the loss of loved ones. Many a face will be missed from the family circle—many, too, will never return. My brother, who left with the Seventh Reinforcements, has been wounded twice since going to France. The last word we had from him staled that ho was in the Hornchurch Convalescent Home, but expected to be getting out on furlough in a week or two from when he wrote his last letter, so probably he will be back in the trenches now. Last Thursday we had letters from my brother, who left with the Fifteenth Reinforcements.. They were on Salisbury Plain, but were just starting out for France. ' They had only 10 days in England, and then they were_ to havo 10 daya in France before they went into the firing line I also have another brother who is going into oamp at Trentham ia

January. I have about 12 cousins away to the war, and two more going into camp in January. How I do wish this most awful war was at an end, and peace proclaimed once again 1 But I am afraid it will not end for a while yet. When we gaze round us and see the nice green fields, the lambs playing, and the cattle and horses quietly feeding it makes us thank our Creator that we are thousands of miles from the noise of battle and fields of bloodshed. We have been having lovely weather here for some time past; but last night it started to ram, and ft is cold and wet to-day. Yesterday was the Invercargill Show Day. I did not go; but father and mother and my brother went, and had a very good day. We are milking 24 cows now, and feeding 19 calves. The b°ush is looking beautiful at present. What with the mistletoe and manuka and other bush flowers, it just look lovely. Dear Dot, it is some time since I last wrote to the page, and now that I have started I am going to say good-bye till I join your page again next year in Old Writers' Week—that is, if I may. I have written to the page now for eight or nine years, and have made a great number of friends during that time. So now I shall close. Wishing the page good luck and success, and kind regards to all my correspondents, not forgetting Queen Dot, — Yours truly,

WHITE IRIS (Merrivale)

[I am sorry the time has come when our ways separate, White Iris; but I most sincerely hope you will not forget us, and will write for O.W.W.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We have had our examination, and I am in the Fifth Standard now. We went fishing one day with dad up to a stream called the Wairaki, and some of our friends came with us. Dad caught two big trout, each weighing about 41b. One of the boys with us had a nice little pony, and he said that I could ride it home; so I did. The Wairaki is a fairly swift-flowing river, and it rushes down from, the Takitimos and joins the Waiau. It has a rough, etony bed, and the water is very clear. I have been wondering if these great boulders have at some time been brought down by glaciers. My friend and myself tried to jump across on to some gravel in the middle of the stream. She got across, but I got bogged in some sand, and could hardly get out, and Shepherdess stood on the bank and laughed at us. But although this happened we had a really good time. My pigeons are white fantails, Dot, and four more have arrived since I last wrote. Love to Smiler, Opal, Hazel Dell, White Violet 11, and Brave Allies, not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, COUNTRY DASS (Eastern Bush).

[The force of the water would bring down the large boulders, I should think, Country Lass, although it may have taken years and years. Still, your theory might be correct. — DOT.] Dear Dot, —What a great success Old Writers' Week was this time, considering that so many of the Old Writers are away doing their little bit for their King and country. I enjoyed reading your letter very much, E. A. M. I always enjoy reading the Hakataramea D.L.F. letters. I suppose that is because I once lived there, and am interested in the place. I never thought that this awful war would still be on this Christmas. 1 am looking forward to a garden party which is to come off some time in January at Colonel Nicholl's residence, weather permitting. It ought to be very good. Has Possum and her D.L.F. friends decided to get up a D.L.F. entertainment yet ? I think it is about time Dunedin made a start; it really ought to be the leading place; don't you think so? It wants a few like De Claude in it. To-day rain has set in, and there appears to be every prospect of it continuing. Still, it is quite welcome. On Saturday we are all going into Oamaru to see, like all the other country folk, what fun Oamaru can afford. Since last writing I have received two letters from Heatherlee. She in coming to stay with us sooner than she intended. She has quite made up her mind to leave Dunedin for good, as she does not like the place. That is where wo differ. I like Dunedin very much. The scenery is beautiful, and so are the walks, especially out KosJyn and Royal terrace way. Why don't yon hurry up and write, Lady JNoggs? I haven't seen a letter from you for ages. I hope you are quite well. Wishing all the D.L.F., yourself, and the editor a merry Christmas -and a. bright and prosperous New Year, and with lovo to Heatherlee, Kitty, E. *A. M., Lady Noggs, Lavinia, A. J. P., Hakataramea, and Daisy Bell, not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, STAR OF HAKA ((Mnheno). [Thanks for your good wishes, dear.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Our school closes on Thursday, and we are having our picnic on Friday. I generally ride to school, but sometimes daddy takes me down in the motor car. We are shearing here now. We started to-day with five shearers. 'My younger brother is getting quite big now, and he can talk quite well. I have a little blnck kitten that I call Nigger. Well, Dot, I think I will stop now. Wishing you a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, —Yours truly, CECY (Taieri Lake). [You will have a busy time of it during shearing.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —We are having a much-needed rain to-day. If it had not como the gardens would have been dried up. A good many people have had to cart their water some distance ; but fortunately we have an extra large concrete tank, so we always have plenty of water. We have had such warm weather lately that the best place to be in is the creek. We have .a swimming pool, and it is up to my neck in depth. There is bush on one side of it and tree ferns or pungas, as they are called, on the other side. I can swim a little way ; and think I am lucky to have a pool to go into. It does seem a shame that people do not see the beauty of the bush and the nicely-tinted ferns along the sides of the steep banks that are at the side of the creek. I went into Harnil + on one Saturday. A friend of ours came out in his motor and took us back with them, and then on the Monday he brought us back in the car. It is 20 miles to Hamilton from our place, so it was a nice outing. I shall now close. With best wishes to you and all the Little Folk for Christmas and the New Year, —Yours truly, WAIPA (Te Papu). [lt must be delightful to have a bathing ?001. near at hand during the hot weather, hope you will persevere with your swimming.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —After a fairly long absence I now take the pleasure of penning a few lines to the dear old page. My father is in the hospital again, and ho will not be home till a good while after Christmas. We are all very disappointed, but we can only hope for the best. I am getting about 10 days' holiday at Christmas; but I am not going away. I received two loveiy presents from work. One was a beautiful gold brooch from the members of the Patriotic Association, and the other was from on.o of the lady workers. I think that it wnq very good of them : don't you, Dot? I will always look upon these gifts afl everlasting remembrances o' the pleasant day, 1 spent amongst them. I read with pler.auve the many letters from O.W.'s, and, although I did not know any, it zaa<k me fee] that the page was not for-

gotten by those who have gTown into men and women, and I hope that it will continue to be a success, and that some day I will be spared to write to it also. I suppose you saw in the Times about Germany's peace offer, and I am glad that it is not being accepted until German militarism is crushed. I wa*i very pleased to see some letters from boys on active service, and I am sure everyone joins in wishing them a safe return and as happy and as enjoyable a Christmas as they can possibly have. Thank you very much indeed for the good wisher. which you sent to all, and I am sure we shall try to make others as happy as possible. We have a good-deed week at Sunday school, and everyone is supposed to do a good act, and we find that it is great pleasiire to make others happy. I received first prize for lessons at Sunday school, and my gold seal for my diploma. I have been seven years to Sunday school now without a miss, so I think that is not bad. Well, Dot, I know that space is limited, so I shall close. Wishing you and all my D.L.F. comrades a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year, — lours truly, A TRUE PATRIOT (Dunedin),. [I was delighted at seeing that your services for the Patriotic Association had been recognised, dear.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I was very pleased to see my last letter in print. The weather has been lovely, out during the last few days has been 'ery changeable. Last month some friends and I went up to Sailors' Rest, a small bay about five miles from where I live, for a picnic. As the day was fine, we all enjoyed ourselves. We had lunch and gathered some shells; then we went, for a row in the boat along the coast. When we arrived back at the bay we had lunch, and the boat came and picked us up. As the wind was easterly, we had a good steam home. 1 had a letter from my brother in Fiance. He is keeping well; but the weather is cold. He also sent us a Christmas card each with some poetry on the back of them. We have been using new potatoes for about a month. They were very nice at first, but now they seem like old potatoes. Last week, as a boat was passing from Stewart Island to Bluff, the wind began to blow from the east, and a big sea was running. One of the crew went to take in the head sails, when a big sea broke over the boat. He disappeared, and was soon drowned. The people ar6 busy shearing before the bad weather comes. Well, Dot, I must conclude by wishing you a merry Christmas.—Yours truly, ISLAND GIRL (Steward Island).

[I trust your brother will continue in the enjoyment of good health. The bad weather must be very trying to the boys in the trenches—snow, rain and mud.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band? I am 10 years old, and am in the Fifth Standard. I am very fond of reading the letters in your page. I would like you to give me a name for my pet lamb. I have three sisters and five brothers, and I am the youngest. I am going to a boarding school next year. One of my sister goes to the Otago Girls' High School; but she is not going there next year. We are getting- a new head teacher at our school, because the other one is going to the war. I have two uncles and eight cousins at the war. We break up for our Christmas holidays to-morrow. —Yours truly, HIELAND LASSIE II (Dunback). [You are welcome to the page, dear. As I already have a Hieland Lassie writing to the page, I have to make you the second. If vou like you can adopt another N.D.P.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —Our school will soon be closing for Christmas. Our teacher will be getting married,, during the holidays. We have six young pigs and another big one that very nearly knocked out the side of the • stye. There is to be a concert and dance at Waikawa in aid of the Red Cross Fund. Little Miss Vanity has had the measles. Love to all the L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, ARMS, LEGS, AND YELL (Waikawa Beach). [I hope Little Miss Vanity has made a good recovery from the measles.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —After an interval of many months I now take up my pen to write you a few lines. At present I am staying in town with Tighnabruiach, and am having a good time. I have been here a week, and am going to stay till Boxing Day. The lady whom she is working for is away, and won't be home till then; so we are at home on our own. Mum, my sister, and brother are going south on Wednesday for a holiday, and they are leaving Sexton Blake at home to b? housekeeper; so I hope she gets on all right. My word, talk about having hot weather! It has been something awful; but to-day is somewhat cooler, and it is trying to rain, which we could well do with, as the hills and paddocks arc getting as,brown as a berry. The roads are inches deep in dust, and it is awful riding through it. I shall close now, as I have some more letters to write. Wishing you and all the L.F. a merry Christmas and a happy New Year, — Yours truly, BONNIE MARY O' ARGYLE. [I hope you enjoy your visit, dear. Thanks for your card.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Just a few lines to thank you for the name that you gave me for the cat. The weather up here is very dry just now. There are a good many wheat crops about this year, and I think there will be a good harvest. Our vegetable garden is doing very well just now. Many farmers have started shearing, while a few of them have finished. The school broke up on Monday, December 18, and we have seven weeks' holiday. Some time ago we had a school concert. Part of the money was given to a family who had been burnt out; the rest was to set up a school library. At the examination I passed, and now I am in the Seventh Standard. Wo are getting our prizes after the holidays. The war seems to be going on the same. I think I shall close. Wishing all the D.L.F. a merry Christmas, not forgetting yourself,— Your 3 turly, IRISH MOSS (Moa Creek).

[Congratulations on having passed your examination, Irish Moss. Hope you have an enjoyable holiday.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —This is my farewell letter to the page till O.W.W. comes round. I have been a unit in Dot's happy band for nearly seven years, and have made many friends whom I weald probably never have known except by a badge or the Auto column. My badge has been a constant companion; but they are diminishing from view as tims goes on. Rally round the page and show some of those, baages, comrades. I was at the Invercargill Show last week, and noticed three or four; but the wearers seemed as though they wer? unconscious of the importance of them. I mel two D.L.F.—Awkward Meg and Sky Pilot, —and had a pleaeant chat with each. I did not see much of the show, as two of my cousins from .Brighton were down for a holiday; bo wo all went up the Water Tower and through the Gardens. They wero fooling very tired., 30 they went into the grand stand, and father and I went round the ring to see all wo could. I wn<? not a bit tired till I was homo again, and then my uppermost thoughts wore how to tell those at homo all and get to sleep as quickly as possible. My cousins went out to Gorgo Road to stay with my uncle's friends there.

It is cow-time, and that is all-important now. I enjoyed reading the Old Writers' letters this year. There was a very good response, all things being considered. "We had the telephone laid on to the hoiise a while ago, there being six residents on a party wire. It is very handy, and saves many a journey and much loss of time. The. first night we were connecled the boil was going the whole, time, and everybody was talking to everybody else. The novelty has worn off a little; so one geis a little peac-3 now. Did you ever get that photo I sent you, Mahinapua ? I received yours safely, and thank you very much for same. Now, dear Dot, I conclude. Wishing the page, every success in future, as in tho past, and with best wishes for a bright and happy New Year to all my D.L.F. correspondents and friends, —Yours truly, FROLIC (Edendale). [Parting with a writer, though it is only for ft time, is always painful, though inevitable. I sincerely hope you will remember the page, Frolic, when Old Writers' Week comes round. Meantime we bid you farewell with all good wishes.--DOT.] Dear Dot, —We are having five weeks' holiday from school now, and three at harvest. The school broke up on Wednesday., and wo had a picnic. I received a book prize named " Tho Girleeu." On Monday I am going away for my holidays to Otama to my sister's place, where I hope to have a good time. We are milking seven cows now and feeding seven calves. The cherries and the red and black currants are ripe now, and are ready for making jam. The weather down this way is splendid. The farmers down here are nearly all busy shearing their sheep, so they will soon be finished. The garden vegetables are looking lovely just now. I have, another sister smaller than myself who is going to write to the page also. Love to all the L.F., not forgetting yourself,—Yours truly, HAZEL DELL (Wendon).

[No doubt all school children will be expected to do something at harvest time this year. Parmer.? will want all the help they can get.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—By the time this note is printed Christmas will be over. Last. Christmas we all hoped that our brave lads would be with us; but it does not seem that they will be here for the next. What a number of brave lads have fallen! I think this line is a great comfort to ones who have dear ones who have fallen: "Only good-night, but not good-bye." We had our show day on the 6th of this month. It turned out a great success. It was a fine day, too, for a wonder. It is terribly windy down here just xiow. You would think the wind was going to blow down the house. The wind soon makes the ground dry, and that keeps the vegetables back. What we need now is a good shower of rain; but I expect when we do get it it will keep on, and we will be wanting it to stop. I have an idea who you are, Golden Shadows, and I think I know you, Oh, Bo Joyful. I deceived your Christmas-card, Island Girl. I must close now by wishing you and all the D.L.F. a happy New Year.— Yours truly,

IRONHEART (Gore). [Let us sincerely hope and pray that the war will be over before next Christmas.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band ? I will be 16 years old on February 27, and have left school two vears. I know two or three of the D.L.F.," their N.D.P.'s being Bride's Blossom and Bonnj' Loch Lomond. I had Bride's Blossom staying with me for a week. We used to live where she is now living, and I often think I would like to go back there again to live. I have three brothers and three sisters living; but we lost our youngest brother last month. He was only two months old; but we do miss him. My eldest brother is working over on the West Coast, and I srtppose he will soon be down to see us —at least, I hope so. I have two sisters and one brother going to school now, and another one is starting school after the holidays. We have lived heio over two years; but Ido not like living here at all. Dear Dot, as this is my first letter to the page, I will not make it too long, but I hope you will allow me to join your happy band. Wishing Bride's Blossom and all the D.L.F., also yourself, a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, — Xours frrulv, SNOW IN SUMMER (Ngapara). [C'ertamly you may join us, dear. I am sorry - to hear of the death of your small brot'hfr.—DOT.] AUTOS AND CORRESPONDENCE. Long Island (Maggie Dawson, The Neck, Slewart. Island) wishes to correspond wilh Europena, Tom Purr, Jim. Daddy's Little Girl, Red Sweet Pea. Averill, Rattpare, Ironheart, Engineer 11, Hope, Italian. Star of Haka (Miss A. Park. Maheno) wishes to exchange autos with Menagerie Camp, Italian, Postman Henry, Nathalie's Chum, Marquette, Ironheart, and Silvery Moonbeam. Isiano Girl (Fanny Dawson, The Neck, Stewart Island) wishes to correspond and exchange autos with any D.L.F. willing'. F. H., Frankton. —"Send your N.D.P., and the auto-cards will be forwarded. I presume you mean auto-cards, although you wrote " badges." CHRISTMAS-CARDS RECEIVED. I have been gratified with the receipt of Christinas-cards, many of them very pretty, from the following D.L.F., and heartily reciprocate ihe kindly greetings:—Silver Fern, Bonnie Mary o' Argylc, The Quaker Girl, Kentucky Maiden, Golden Shadows, Lucile Love, Star of Hope, A True Patriot, Cecy, Squill. Frolic, White Iris, Nurse Elia, and Europena. '