MILITARY SERVICE BOARDS.

Otago Witness, Issue 3278, 10 January 1917, Page 19

MILITARY SERVICE BOARDS.

'APPEALS AT PALMEItSTON

The Otago Military Service Board (Air 11. if. VViddowson, S.M., chairman, and Messrs A. D. Bell and E. Kellett) hold a Chitting at i'almerston on the 3rd to hoar appeals of men called Ui> under section 35, and called up in the liist ballot. Captain Free represented the Defence Department. There was a largo attendance of onlookers in tho court. CLAUSE 35 MEN. George and Cuaries Cummings, farmers, of i'anneriston South, appealed on tiie ground ul financial obligations they had incurred, Charles Cummings said he was quite willing' to go, but lie would like a httio tune to square up h.s affairs. ifio appeal ot Charles Cummings was dismissed, and Ccorgo Cummings was granted exemption conditionally on his remaining in tho same occupation and being essential.

William and Martin Hett'ernan, tanners, of Ncntnom, for whom Mr J. 11. Demon appeared, appealed on the ground of financial hardship if they had to leave tho farm at tho present time.

William Heffernan, 25 years of age, said ho had had a small grazing run oi uis own of 3177 acres for tho past nino years. There were 1200 sheep on tho farm, 10 cattle, nine horses, and 4i2 acres of oats and 60 acres of turnips. Ho did practically all the work on tho larm himself, lie made a profit of about £4OO last year from his farm. If he •wont no arrangements could bo made to carry on his farm, 'lhe shearing would not be finished for two weeks. 110 had three brothers in tho lirst division—Stephen (single, 27, fanner) John (single, 23, farming with Stephen), Martin (single, 21, farming at Moonlight}. None of tho brothers bad gone to the war. They thought they were doing their duty to tho country by staying at homo and producing. Martin took up his farm about two years ago, and Stephen got his about two months after the ■war started.

To Captain Frco : It was contrary to fact to statu that they had boon saying that they had so arranged their affairs that they could not be sent to the war. He did not think a man who was medically unfit would be much good for work on tho farm. The Chairman: Many men do not know they are medically unfit.

To Captain Free : He had another brother, aged J 5 years. He might be 18 years, but he did not think so.

Tho Chairman: You know tho ago of your sheen .and cattle better. I suppose that's about it.

To tho Chairman: At the present time his own and his brother's farms and stock might bo worth £IO,OCO, or slightly more. To Captain Free: They had, perhaps, 570 shoep, worth about £1 2s 6d each. Martin Heffernan. 21 years of age, said he had about 200 acres of freehold, which ho worked, and ho also worked and managed his father's leasehold and freehold. To tho Chairman: If one of tho brothers had to go they had not considered which could bo best spared. Tho board was of opinion that two out of tho four brothers should go. In tho meantime the appeals were adjourned to the next sitting at Palmcraton, these two brothers to be medically examined.

Jarnc3 Walker, Flag Swamp, appeared on behalf of himself and his brothers Alexander and William Walker, of Flag Swamp. The appeal was on the ground of undue hardship. James Walker had been rejected as unfit. Ho stated he had a brother, David, aged 50 years, and married. William was aged 34 years, and Alexander 30 years, both single. Ho himself was 38 years, and single. They had the caro of three farms of 123 acres, 160 acres, and 209 acres. They took up the last-named farm about two years ago. Tho farms were too much work for ono, and' he could not get labour. His brother William had signed on before he got notice. Tho board was of opinion tint satisfactory arrangements could be made by James Walker remaining and getting his brother David to assist on the farm. Tho appeals of William and Alexander were dismissed, and that of James adjourned sine die. EXTENSION OF TIME GRANTED.

Edward Stanley, farm manager, of Macraes Flat, pleaded undue hardship on the ground that ho had 4000 acres to manage and 150 acres in crop. His father was 68 years of ago. Mr Dawson, who appeared for tho appellant, said that Stanley was anxious to serve his country, but asked for an extension of two months' time to enable him to get wool carted out. He expected to earl between 400 and 500 bales.

Tho case was dismissed, appellant not to be failed up until February 28. Andrew James Drcaver, farmer, of Palmerston, appealed on the ground of undue hardship, as no one could be got to take his. place on the farm. Mr Arkle appeared on his behalf. Appellant stated he had two farms about four miles apart, one of 117 acres and tho other of 70 acres. He whs milking 16 cows. lie had 21 acres of oats 12 acres of wheat, and 24 acres of turnips. His mother lived with him. His sisters wero all married and away. His brothers were —William, 48 years, married, borough council foreman; Donald, 45 years, single farmer at Olenpai-k; Duncan, 40 years, single, in Napier at present in hospital; John, 38 years, married, in Timaru; and Robert, who went away with tho Main Body, and was now in the Railway Department. Appellant worked from half-past 4 in the morning till 8 at night, and could not get any man to undertake his work Ho had no return last year from tho place on account of the dry season. He had been unable to get casual labour by inquiring about the district. This rase was ordered to stand down till tho afternoon, when the court decided to adjourn the case for three months to allow the appellant to make arrangements, appellant to be medically examined in tho meantime.

Archibald M'Curdy, checsemaker, of Goodwood, appealed on the ground that it would bo contrary to publio interest to take him from his occupation. His employers also entered an appeal on tho ground of undue hardship, as men wore unobtainable for such positions. Appellant said ho was 34 years of age, and first assistant at O-oodwood Cheese Factory. There were threo men employed, and the busy season lasted till April or May. To Captain Free: They were receiving

ovor 1000 gallons a day at tho height of tiie season, and were getting over 900 gallons now. If he were excused till March 31 that -would suit the requirements of the industry. Frederick James Turner (chairman of directors of tho Goodwood Cheese Factory) said the appellant could nor, be replaced till about April. Ihey had sold the output to tho National Mortgage Company, and ho supposed the Government would require it. The board decided there was nothing for it but to exempt the appellant till March 31, provided he remained in the same employment. William James Hethcrington, butcher, of Hampden, 38 years of age, appealed on the ground that lie was tho sole support, of his widowed mother. He stated he had no brothers or sisters. His mother had been ill for the past two years. He did part of the housework himself, and got in outside help. He had no one lie could leave his mother with. He had practically always boon at home. To Captain Free : His mother had three married brothers in or near Duncdin, but he d : d not think th»y would come to take charge of the invalid. To the Chairman : He supposed he made about £4 a week out of tho business. Tho board decided to adjourn tho case. till tho sitting after next at Palmerston, to enable the appellant to make some serious effort to find suitable provision for his mother, and to bo medically examined in tho meantime. Rodger Heath, farmer, of Hill grove.asked for two or three months to enable him to dispose of his cows. He was allowed till March 1 before being called up. DISMISSED Michael Joseph Al'CaDe, farmer, oi Meadowbank, appealed on the grounds ot undue hardship, financial and domestic. Appellant stated ho was 2d years ot ago, and was farming for his father, who was t>s years of age. His father and sister had 153 acres of Government leasehold. iiis f brother and another sister held 1060 acres of Government leasehold, and the two places were worked as one. lie had three brothers —Tom, single, 33 years of age, working on a ta,.m at llyclo; John, 28 years oi age, single, on his farm; and William, 24 years of ago, single, on both farms. He had three single sisters at home. He had his father and sisters to support, and he considered no was indispensable. His brother John was not particularly fit for farm work. Two brothers had enlisted and been rejected. John M'Cabo corroborated his son's evidence, and said he let the boys manage tho farm

To Captain Free : Tho sons did contracting work outside tho farm. This appeal was dismissed. John (ialbraith, farmer, of Flag Swamp, for whom Mr Arkle appeared, appealed on tho ground of the hardship that would bo entailed if he left the farm. Appellant stated that he worked hw father's farm of 156 acres. His father was not in the best health, and it would take him all his time to manage his farm for himself. Appellant also managed his uncle's farm. If appellant wont, Ids father would have to sell, and that was not easy at the present time. John Galbraith, uncle of the appellant, said his brother was not to bo trusted with horses, owing to his health. James Galbraith, father of tho'appellant, aged 57 years, said, if his.son went, the farm would be no use to him. _ His son would have gono away but for his mother. Tho appeal was dismissed. John Ernest Lister, general labourer, of Falmerston, asked for exemption till tho month of M-ay. Mr Arklo appeared on his behalf.

Appellant stated he was 31 years of _ age, and his parents, aged 64 and 63, were living with him. He was harvesting just now, working 10 hours, and earning 15s a day. Harvesting and following the mill would continue till tho middle of April.

Captain Free said the only question was whether appellant was essential to the industry, and there was no evidence on thai point.

Tho appeal was dismissed. James Murcott, farm labourer, of Hampden, appealed on the ground that he was tho support of his widowed mother, and that two of his brothers had gone. Appellant was represented by Mr Arkle. He stated ho was 37 years of age, and earned £2 a week and found. Two brothers had gone to tho war. One had been killed and one was in hospital. Another brother had ofFered threo or four times, and had been rejected. Ho had three other brothers married —two in the North Island and one at Waitati. His brother ,who had been rejected was living at home with their sister and widowed mother. Tho anneal was dismissed.

Alexander Mathieson, sheep farmer, of Stoneburn, appealed on the ground of the financial burdens on hi 3 farm. —Mr Arkle conducted tho appeal.—Appellant said he was 24 years of age, and had a farm of 26C0 acres freehold, on which he ran 1900 sheep. He ran it ail himself except for casual labour now and again. His father had retired. He was in partnership with his brother in a farm at Tomahawk. His father was 55 years of age, and in good health.

To Captain Free: If his father liked to take the farm on he supposed ho could.

John Mathicson. 54- years of age, said he had 10 of a family, including three boys. The youngest was 10 or 11 years of age. Ho had been working very hard between the Tomahawk and Stonebnrn properties during the past two years. One of the boys was prepared to go, but it would mean selling the dairv herd. He did not care about bringing his young family on to the land and taking charge of the Ftonohurn property himeelf. His son Alexander was married and had a child. The board felt that in this ease some sacrifice would have to be made, and one of the sons would have to go. The appeal would bo dismissed. CONDITIONAL EXEMPTION.

Tlenrv Parnell M'Craeken, coal miner, of F'ha<r Point, appealed on tho ground that lie had a widowed mother, a sister, and an aged grandfather. His employers (Messrs William Hunt and Ron) also entered an appeal on his behalf.—Mr Arkle represented the appellant, who stated tint he was 33 years of a?e, and a coal miner, employed at Phag Point, by William Hunt and Son. There were living with him his grandfather (asred 92 years), his mother faged 58 years), and bis unmarried sister. The old man required constant, attention, and the mother was subject to heart trouble. Appellant earned 12J a day. and it all went info the house. There should bo eight miners at Shng Point, but threo had loft, and

their places could not, be filled. TTe had not slept away from his homo for four years.

James .Hunt, a member of the firm of was about 1500 tons a your. M'Cracken was 0110 of their essential men. Witness had boon at fcho front. -'lho case was formally adjourned and conditional exemption granted. James M'Lew, farmer, of Ehinback, appealed on the ground that ho had two brothers at the front, and was the only ono William Hunt and .Sun, said their output left on tin' farm.—-Mr Arklo appeared for him. —Appellant stated that the brother who owned the farm with him had been killed in the war. The ro was another brother at the. front, and one had been killed in the Boer war. lie had 1600 acres of freehold, and his father (who was 71 years of age, and past work) had 12100 acres of leasehold adjoining. There were 1600 sheep on both places. JTe had two married brothers and ono single ono, aged 20 years, in tho Railway Department in the North Island. John M'Lew, father of the appellant, said ho could do no work, and could not even superintend. ' Conditional exemption was granted so long as tho appellant remained in the same occupation. William John Gilhos, farmer, of Hampden, appealed on the [.'.round of undue hardship, as he possessed special knowledge of valuable stock, and his place could not be filled. Mr appeared in the case. Appellant, who gave h's ago as 38 years,

said he was in charge of 80 pedigree Ayrshire cattle on his father's farm. Pedigree stock had all to be named and known from birth up. lie was the only one who understood the cattle, and he did not think ho could teach anyone else. His brother, who was doing the agricultural farming, was in camp. His father had been breeding stud stock for 40 years, and exported thcin. They were milking 30 cows now, and his two sisters helped him. He had a married brother in the North Island.

Archibald Gilhos, father of the appellant, said he was not now able to remember the pedigrees and history of the eattlo as was required. It wcuhl bo ruination to him if his son went. It had taken him 40_ years to get all 'tho stock correct. The life of any strange man who took on the work would not be safe.

Conditional exemption was granted with the usual proviso, that appellant continue in the same occupation." Robert Dunn, jun., coal minor, .Shag Point appealed on the ground that his only brother was at the front, and his father needed him. Ho had just come out of the hospital. The Shag Point Proprietary entered an appeal on his behalf. The appellant said his work was hewing coal and trucking, and ho made about ios a day on tonnage rates. He had a'brother at tho war wounded, and ono about 12 years of

ago. Charles Edward Twining, manager of the Shag Point Coal Proprietary, said they employed 16 miners and 12- surface hands. They sold the coal from Duncdin to Culvercten, but not. to the Government. His position was that ho wanted 20 more men. About 50 men had left since the beginning of the war. They supplied dairy factories and freezing works. He preferred married men because one knew when he had them, but there were some jobs ho could not put an old man to. The Chairman: I suppose this comes under essential industries? Captain Free: I am afraid it docs, sir. Exemption was granted on the usual conditions. OVER ACE. Thomas Moor Pcddie and William Henry Peddle, of Macraes Flat, appealed on the ground that they wore over ago. Thomas gave his ago as 50 years and William as 49 years. Evidence of age being produced both appeals were allowed. Mr Arkle appeared for the appellants. PASSED FOR HOME SERVICE. John George Robertson, letter carrier, of Palmerston, for whom Mr Arkle appeared, appealed on the ground of undue hardship to his father, and produced a certificate of medical unfitness. Captain Free said Robertson had passed as fit for home service. Appellant said his father was 76 years of age and his mother 66 years.He was agreeable for home service, and was allowed to withdraw the appeal. NO APPEARANCE. The appeals of William Thomas Tippet (Waikouaiti), Albert George Apps (Palmerston), and .lames Patrick Sheehy (Moonlight) wore dismissed, there being no appearance of the appellants. SITTING AT HILTON. The Otago Military Service Board (Messrs H. Y. Widdowson, S.M., chairman, E. Kellett, and A. D. Bell) held a sitting at Milton oil the 4th, when 35 appeals were dealt with. 13 of these being- on behalf of men called up under -section 35, and the remainder being men drawn in the first ballot. Captain Free again represented the Defence Department, and with him was associated Captain A. C. C. Stevens, N.Z.S.C. The proceedings were watched with close interest by a large crowd. CLAUSE 35 MEN. Charles Lionel Shale and Oliver Samuel Shale, farmers, of Clarksvillo, appealed on the ground of undue hardship owing to poor health, financial obligaitons, and dependents. Mr Donald Reid appeared for them. The chairman announced that as Oliver Shale was medically unfit his appeal could bo formally dismissed. Charles Lionel Shale .said he was the sole proprietor of a farm of 340 acres, purchased in 1913. He hail two brothers at Oarnaru, who had been dealt with by the board the other day. He had about 100 acres in wheat and oats, 1660 sheep, nino horses, about 20 cattle, and 50 pigs. Three of the live brothers were farmers. He had a brother Harold not in good health, and Oliver could not do hard work. Appellant did not object to military service, ;y.d was prepared to go. His farm had been "in the market for two years, lie had tried and could not get anyone to take his place. To Captain Free: His brother Oliver had been engineering for a few years, and then was driving a milk cart. He had been Homo for Lis health. Sometimes he did a little light work on the farm. Oliver Samuel Shale, 33 years of age, said he- had been between two or three years at engineering. Ho had to leave it in 1905 because his nerves were bad, and he was subject to giddy turns. He had improved a good deal since he was on Jtho farm, but he was not a farmer and could not manage his brother's place. To Mr Kellett: He was willing to go, but ho knew ho could not stand it. To tho Chairman: Ho did not know the doctor described him as temporarily incapacitated. He had enlisted. Alexander Ronnie, former proprietor of Meadowbank, the Shales's farm, said it woidd

occupy the wholo attention of a practical man. He did not think Oliver was at all capable of looking after Meadowbank. The Chairman said it appeared that Charles Shah? had been trying to sell his property and had not been able to do so. The board had decided to adjourn the appeal for three months. In the meantime tho appellant must make a strong effort to sell or obtain a manager, and the case would then be further considered.

James Quirk, labourer, Milton, appealed on tho ground of financial obligations and

that ho had a wife and family to support, and Timothy Quirk, railway surfaceman, Milton, appealed on dip yroimu that he was the solo support of his mother and sister. Mr Thomson, who appeared for them, said they were quite, willing to withdraw tho appeal. They had both been sworn in. Captain Free said they would :iot be called up unless for home service. Tho appeals were withdrawn. John Howio painter, of Milton, who appealed as permanently unlit, was re ported to have been passed as (it for class A.

a.i I Lo be. antauy in camp. ... upp a: w a«, ; therefore, formally (1 William Heiirv Wells woollen mill hand, j claimed to be medicalh unfit, _ and the j manager of the Bruce Woolh n -Mills also appealed on his behalf. The a; ; !'■■:■: was I VKM-- rrr.:. " ■•u..'" —' - —„_

nut uniy cailuci up unci-i section 60, bat uimu ! ippoarerl in the second ballot, it wu« de- : cid, .! to adjourn th. ease until the < m- . plover's app-al under the second ballot ! came up for In a ring. i David Mollisoii Thorn-on and Alfred

' Lxioiu.-uii, lui'iiK-ia, ol Miiton, appealed, David Thomson as pcrinant-iiiiy _ unlit and Alfred on the ground oi public interest, as j lie was a producer oi wool, grain, and I mill i.jU. ! jj r (j. ij. Thomson appeared on their I behalf, and stated that All red 'lliomson wiiii away to the South African war as soon as he couid, and by no un.ans came under ills; family shirkers' clause. The Chairman .-aiil he was very glad to hoar it. '.file appellants would now lake ilicir chance in the second ballot. The appeals would be allowed, as they did not conic under clause 33. Robert and James Allison, farmers, of Moneyuioro, entered appeals—Robert on the " ground that he had been rejected for service and James on the ground of public interest as he was rc-quked to manage two farms. Mr Rutherford appeared for the appellants, and stated

that James was permanently unlit The board dismissed the appeal on the ground that one of the brothers being medically unfit took the family out of section 35/ They would now take their chance in the ballot. William M'Caw Allison, farm labourer, of Clarksvillo, for whom Mr Rutherford appeared, claimed to be temporarily unlit, He stated that he was 25 years of age, and single. His father had been accidentally killed on December 1. His mother was 59 years of ago. He had a brother, aged 21 vears. down on final leave from camp, and one (Frank) aged 20 years, at home. He had live sisters, two of whom were marrii d, and the other three at home. Ho was working a farm of SCO acres freehold and 150 acres leasehold. li' x had no financial difficulties. Re had volunteered and had been rejected, but since then he had been passed as fit. Captain Free said he thought it was unfortunate that the second brother was not brought up. To the Chairman: His younger brothoi could not manage the farm. The board decided to adjourn the case until the brother Frank was called up, conditional up ■> the appellant remaining in his. present o; cupation. Daniel and John Cannon, farm labourer?. of Moneymoro, appealed—Daniel on the ground of the loss of an eye and John on account of undue hardship. Mr Thomson appeared for the appellants. Captain Free pointed out that the loss of an eye was not a bar to military service. Both appeals were adjourned to enable the appellants to be medically examined. Samuel and John Porter, general storekeepers and butchers, of Tokoivi. appealed on the ground of public interest, business reasons, and shortage of labour. Mr Reicl "appeared for the appellants. John Porter said he was the inside man and the butcher in the business, and his brother attended to the outside work. He did not understand his brother's work, nor could his brother do his. He was married in August last. They employed five men, and had nine horses on the road. Both partners were essential. To Captain Free: They had not tried to sell. They would' not think of putting ;, married man or a returned soldier into their place. He would not go unless somebody bought the business, unless he was compelled to go. # Samuel Porter corroborated his brother s evidence. He did not attempt to get away, as they had business obligations to meet. Ho was quite willing to go if it were not, for these obligations. His mother was living with him. but was not dependent on him. Fie could not say they had been carrying on business just as if there was no war on. Captain Free: I can. It is very evident from all the facts. The board was of opinion that one of these men must go It dismissed the appeal of Samuel, the single brother, and granted exemption to John upon the usual conditions. James Robinson, farmer, of Moneymoro, appealed on the ground of undue hardship if he were compelled to sell out. It was stated that one brother had been rejected and the other was a widower with one child. Mr Thomson appeared for the appellant. Captain Free said that the appellant was classed as unfit for active service, but as fit for military service at home. The case was adjourned till next sitting to enable +he other brother to be present. Henry M'Xeill, jun., farmer, of Circle Hill, appealed on the ground of financial obligations, and Joseph Andrew M'Xeill. farmer, of Milburn, appealed on the ground that ho was supporting his parents. Mr Reid appeared for the appellants. Henry M'Neill said ho had had his farm for 5? years. lie had 350 sheep, six horses, 40 acres of turnips, and other crop. The farm occupied all his time. There was a mortgage on it. He was 36 years of age, and single. He had tried to sell his farm at the beginning of the war. His father did not assist him to get the farm.

Joseph Andrew M'Neill, 54 years of age, said ho worked the farm of his father, who was 67 years of age. The farm was of 332 acres. He had four brothers—two single, at Pembroke, one married at Milburn, and the one who had just given evidence. His father had 420 sheep and lambs, 16 cattle, and five horses

To Captain Free: Ho had often thought of going, but it was pretty hard for him to rret away.

Mr Rcid said one of the brothers had comp down from Pembroke for the purpose of attesting, lie was. prepared to go within a month. He had never been summoned Mr Kellctt: He didn't need to bo summoned. Sixty thousand of them weren't summoned. 'I hey went. The brother from Pembroke, who was present in court, said the other brother there was prepared to go when called upon, but now that the ballot had come in he was waiting io appear in that. The case was adjourned till next sitting in Milton, the four single' brothers to be medically examined in the meantime. CONDITIONAL EXEMPTION. William Robert Currie, farmer and sheepshearing machine owner, Clarksville, appealed on the ground of financial and domestip, obligations. He stated that he had shorn 11,000 sheep this year, and ho also did an enormous amount of crutcliing. Ho wanted to go in the ambulance, because he would much rather go and help thase who were suffering ilian help to cause more suffering, even to the enemy. lie was noi a conscientious objector, ilis age was 37 years. He had 17. J sheep yv L to shear, and would be finished in about a fortnight. Jle crutched for the seme people every year from F< ')•:•:;> vy to May. Conditional exemption was grant:.-;!, on the uftiil understanding that appellant continued in the same occupation. The Milton Boroiurh Council, represented by Mr Rcid. appealed on behalf of Geors-e

liowic, ita sanitary contractor, on lie'ground that his occupation was essentia!, and men could not be found to undi rtake the work. The appellant, who gave his age at 36 years. said he would go if he was relieved of his duties. He had a broth r who had been wounded in the war. Captain Free said he (Yd not dispute that thi: occupation was essential. Conditional exemption was granted. Charles Thomas Lowcry, farmer, of Lovell's Flat, was represented by Mr Reid, who stated that this case had been heard before, when appellant and a brother were called under section 35. Appellant's brother was sent to camp, and appellant's case was adjourned sine die. He had. however, since been called up in the ballot, and from this he appealed. The board reaffirmed its previous decision that Lowcry be exempted conditionally on his remaining in the same occupation and being essential. EX'i FXSiOX OF TIME GRANTED. George Spencer, storekeeper, oi Edievale, for whom Mr Rutherford appeared, appealed on the grounds of undue hardship if he iiad to leave his business. Appellant said lie hail married in July, 1915, and had one child. lie had been five and a-haii years in his present business. There was no other store m the township. lie was willing to go on active service-, but, wanted to dispose of his business first. So far he had failed to get a buyer. lie had brothers who were tanners. The appeal was dismissed, the appellant not lo be called up before April 1. John Gray Chalmers, 44 years of age, storekeeper and blacksmith, at. Waihola, appealed on tin.' ground of public interest, because he was the support ot his mother ami sister, and because of his financial responsibilities. Appellant stated he had a widowed mother 70 .years of age, and a single sister. II lie had to go he would like at least throe months to dispose oi his business. lie had a single brother, 37 years of age, at home, who had twice been rejected temporarily. The appeal was dismissed, appellant not to be called up before April 1. James M'Lean, farmer, of Tokomairiro, appealed on the ground of undue hardship owing to heavy losses on his farm and financial obligations.

To Captain Free, appellant staled ho had ono married brother in the railway service at Milton. He had bought the property the war started, and had not done much to dispose of it since. He could not say whether his farm oould be leased to the neighbours. He was 45 years of age last month. The board thought the appellant should bo able to dispose of his farm either bysale or lease within the next- lour months. The appeal was dismissed, but the appellant will not be called up before April 4. DISMISSED. Thomas Pearson, sawmiller, of Glenledi, appealed on the ground of undue hardship, as he had bought bush and wished a, chance to cut it out. Captain Free stated that on December 2 appellant had asked for two months to out out for orders on hand. lie could grant him the two months, as he would not now be called up this month. The appeal was formally dismissed, appellant not to be called up till February 2. Henry Charles Green, farmer, of Waronui, appealed on the ground of lameness. but as* he did not appear tho appeal was dismissed. CASES ADJOURNED. William Sinclair Knarston, farmer, of Taieri -Mouth. for whom Mr Erugh appeared. claimed exemption on the ground that he was required to support his parents. He had a farm of 100 acres, and had nine cows milking and 13 others. Ho worked a team, and also took passengers byriver from Titri to Taieri Mouth, and had charge of a store and post office. His sister did the indoor work. He and his brother had lately invested in a launch to cope with tho river traffic. The Chairman: Personally, that does not impress me. Ido not know whether it impresses the board. It is a pure luxury—not a luxury to him, I mean.

Mi- Brugh pointed out that in addition to passengers the appellant conveyed a great deal of farm produce and necessaries. Appellant said he had a brother who had enlisted, but had not yet gone to camp. He was quite willing to go, and would go if his brother were not called up. Mr Brugh said the appeal realJv came from the father, who was 'appellant's employer. Captain Free said he <Yn\ not think the append was m ide out ttt all, as the parents had ample means. The beard looked on this case as one that called for sympathetic consideration. One brother was already at the front and two oilier brothers had enlisted, one of whom had met with an accident. The father was 76 vears of age, though hale and hearty. The board was of opinion that it was a case that should not be sent away at once, nor should it be adjourned indefinitely. It recognised that the need would become more urgent and the net would have to be drawn more tightly. It would therefore adjourn the case for four months. Edward Arthur Hills, farm labourer, of Milton, appealed on the ground that he was the sole support of his widowed mother, sister, and brother. He had two brothers serving at the front Ho was married in September, 1915. His age was 29 years. He did not know whether his brothers allotted part of their pay to Ids mother or not. Tie gave her about £4O a year. She lived in Rangiora. The Chairman: How could your mother, sister, and brother live on £4O a year?— They may be getting something from my brothers at home. He had thought of enlisting when the war started., but he was under the doctor's car". He was not in the best of health now Hills's employer (Mr Rudkinl stated that he had put in an appeal on December IS. but it had not yet come to hand. The case was adjourned, till the next sitting, appellant to be medically examined in the meantime. <\lcxandcr Nieol M'William. mercer, of Milton, said he had enlisted twice, and asked for reasonable time In wind-;:;) the business. He had had the business for 10 months. He enlisted in ihe Old Country, but cm..ld not join lie; New Zealand' rs. „,„! the Hi rh ( 'omn i- ■]< no,- v> ■ enmu nd d him to enme ba \ i • N " w 7 idind. On returning'here h- h id b -u rej r-ted. The ease was ndi.vru d ■•■ pn-.lile the appelant to be medicallv examined. David Hem-y Tweed, fanner, of Novell's Flat. ar.pe.-tlee on tlie ground of permanent unfitness. The _ ease was adjourned for medical examination. WITHDRAWN. Alexander Dickson, fanner, of Wuihola,

appealed on the ground ot undue hardship, as he had an aged mother, sister, and nieco lo support. Mr Brugh conducted the appeal, and stated that the appellant had been passed as iic for home service. 'i he appeal was withdrawn. John William Dale, stud groom and quarry worker, Milton, asked to be allowed till tiie end of 111 * ■ month to arrange his affairs. The appeal was withdrawn, the appellant being assured that he would not be called up before February 1. The appeal of Alcxaud; r George Gray, general storekeeper, of Milton, v. as withdrawn. OVER AGE. Alexander Gray, coal miner, of Taratu, appealed on the ground that he was over ago. He stated that he was 46 years old in February last, but was unable to produce a certificate or definite proof of the date. In reply to the chairman lie said he left England in December, IRBB. and was 13 years old then. Ho was still working as a practical coal miner. The appeal was allowed. David Charles Falconer, farmer, of Milton, also claimed that he was over the ago limit, and therefore not a reservist. 110 produced a certificate showing him to be 49 years of age, and the appeal was allowed. SITTINGS AT BALCLTJTHA. The Otago Military Service Board (-Messrs H. Y. Widdowson, fcS.M., chairman, and 12. Kellett, and A. D. Bell) opened a sitting at the Balclutha Court at 11 a.m. on Friday. Captain Free represented the Defence Department, and had associated with him Captain A. C. C. .Stevens, N.Z.S.C. There were 50 appeals, the majority of them being from men called up in the first ballot. Borne of the clause 35 men were found to have been erroneously included under that section. As in other centres, much public interest was manifested in the proceedings. CLAUSE o 5 MEN. Robert Hastings, farmer, ot Stirling, appealed on the ground that he hud to manage a. farm with 50 cows. Ho had been passed as lit for home service (class CI). Mr R. R. Stewart appeared on his behalf, and said the case had been previously heaid. The Chairman: Home service men aro not used at all yet, are they? Captain Free: No, sir, and may never be The board said it proposed to adjourn CI men for further consideration until some system of home service was brought in. 'the case would therefore be adjourned sine die. William and John Langimiir. dairy farmers, of Ratanui, appealed on the ground of public interest and undue hardship to their aged parents. Mr D. Stewart appeared for the appellants. Captain Free said both men had been medically examined. John had been passed as fit, and William had been rejected. r J he; appeal of John was dismissed, and that of \\ illiam was adjourned sine die.

William Reed, oneiric driver, and Gcorgo Domrlas Reed, farmer, of Toiro, both appealed on the ground of medical unfitness. They produced certificates from the Medical Board. The appeals were allowed. Alfred Leslie Dabinett. farm labourer, of Stirling, appealed on the ground of illhealth, and (hat he had to support his parents. Cha-rlcs Ernest Dabinett, farm overseer, and horse tamer. Stirling, appealed on the ground of ill-health, that he had to support his parents, and that he was a Christadelohian with conscientous objections to military service. Mr J. R. Lemon appeared in the case, and said Charles had been passed as fit for class A. and Alfred had been rejected. The Chairman said both appeals would bo allowed. Charles would take his chance in the ballot Frederick Charles Dale and Thomas Henry Dale, farmers, of Paretai, Kaitangata appealed on the ground that three out 'of five eligible brothers were in training, two with the 22nd and one with the 23rd Reinforcements. The Chairman said there was really noground of appeal sent in. Ho presumed undue hardship was meant. Frederick Charles Dale said ho was 32 years of age and single He had ob acres of turnips, six acres of oats, and eight cows in milk. He had two brothers, one married about 10 years at Benhar, and Thomas, aged 30, single, farming near witness His mother, aged 65. was living by herselt at Kaifcangata. The family supported her. To Captain Free: It would not be possible for on- of the brothers to look after both the farms. They rather objected at the present time to be called up under section 35. It would be a pretty big hurdle for another of them to follow the other three brothers to camp. . Captain Free: We have got to take big hurdles just now. ' The board formally allowed the appeals, as three of the brothers had gone into camp. The appellants would take their chance in the ballot. . James Boyno Lawrence, farmer, of Kaitangata, appealed on tho ground of hard; ship to his mother and sisters, and David Alexander Lawrence, farmer, of Wangaloa, appealed on the ground of undue hardship, as he was married. Mr R. R. Stewart ap-

pcared in the case. Captain Free said both these men had bom passed as C2, fir for homo service. The eases were adjourned sine die, to bo reconsidered when homo service is established. John Twaddle, farmer, of Balclutha, appealed on the ground that lie had been married prior to May 1, 1915. _ Arthur Twaddle, a partner in his brother's farm, appealed on the ground of public interest. Mr A. A. Finch appeared for the nppellauts. and produced the marriage certificate of John Twaddle, dated November, 1912. John Twaddle stated that ho had a brother 40 years of age, married, at Palmerston. Another brother, Archibald, aged 35. served in the Boer war. and had twice been rejected for service in this war. Ho had now been drawn in the ballot. The fourth son, James, was now in camp, and the fifth was managing for D. Reid and Co., Balclutha. The sixth (Arthur) was farming with tho appellant, and the seventh (Thomas, aged 21) was serving in the Tenth Reinforcements. The appeal of John was allowed, as ,\ppi [hint was in the second division, and the appeal of Arthur was also allowed. John James Benjamin Morris, farm manager at Dwnka Valley (lor whom Mr D. Stewart appeared), appealed on the -round of undue hardship. i:: ; father being a cripple, aged 69, and his mofher 65. Tho farm was not owned by his father, and there- was no one to look after it but ap-

pcllant. His brother Jcsso, about 30 years of age, was in camp. George Haider, farmer, of Kaihiku (for •whom Mr D. Stewart appeared) produced a certificate from Dr Brugh to tho effect that ho was permanently unfit. His "case was adjourned for examination by the Medical Board. David Maider, farm assistant, of Kaihiku, and William Wilson, jun., farmer, of Stirling, both withdrew their appeals on the ground of physical unfitness. James Dun lop, shepherd, of Chaslands, appealed on tho ground that ho had stock to look after, and that his brother Hugh was with the Fifteenth Reinforcements.

Captain Free stated that the appellant had been medically examined, and found to bo permanntly unfit. Tho appeal was therefore allowed. There was no appearance of Samuel Henry Carson, labourer, of Kaitangata, or Geo. Holmes, schoolmaster and preacher, of Awamunga. Both appeals were formally dismissed. KAITA NGATA MINERS. Frederick Williams and William Forrester, miners, of Kaitangata, had appeals entered on their behalf by William Carson, as manager of tho New Zealand Coal and Oil Company, on the ground that their occupation was essential.

William Forrester, 34 years of age, said ho was married, four months ago. Ho worked in the Castle Hill mine, and had had 13 years' experience. Ho was acting as a brakesman just now, but was given all sorts of different jobs about tho mine. William Carson, manager of the Kaitangata mines, stated that quite a number of the company's employees had gone to the war. Something like 150 miners, truckers, and shiftmen had gone. At present they were working only one shift a clay, producing coal, instead of two. This was partly owing to shortage of men, and partly to the regular summer slackness. The appellant was not what they would call a practical miner,but lie was an experienced trucker, which was just as essential to the industry. A man must be two years at the face to be a qualified miner. Tho Government was taking all tho coal tho company could give it. He understood Williams had been in camp, but had boon sent back as medically unfit. To Captain Free: On December 15 last they had 308 men and boys in their employ. Before tho war they had 441 employees in the winter. They could not pick up outside men for any of the work about a mine.

Captain Free said he had known men picked up off the road who could boat experienced men at • trucking. Mo admitted that miners were in short supply, but any ordinary labourer would make a brakesman or a trucker. Continuing, he said, "You have done your best to stop men in your neighbourhood enlisting, have you not. — Mr (.'arson: We have carried out the wishes of the Government in the matter. Captain Free: The Government does not wish to stop men enlisting. Have you not actually derided men putting on the King's uniform?—That is a quite mistaken idea. Captain Free: I hope it is a mistake, but that is my information, that you have actively opposed enlisting. The Chairman: I should be very sorry if it were true. He went on to explain that in an essential industry it was only the men who were essential to that industry that were entitled to exemption. Mr Carson said both men before the board had been examined and rejected by the Medical Board. The case was ordered to stand down to ascertain if that were so. The mention of the medical certificates at the close of a long examination caused the chairman to remark " That reveals, a curious state of things. There is not only a want of organisation in labour, but want of organisation '»'mewhere else."

Captain Free subsequently reported that both the men were absolutely unfit, and both cases were adjourned sine die. Henry Albert West, cof.l miner, of Kaitangata, appealed on the ground of public interest and domestic hardship. The manager (Mr Carson) entered an appeal in this case also, on the plea that West was essentia! to the industry.

The appellant gave his age as 25, and said he was a shiftman employed in timbering and so on. ITe had had eight years' mining experience. He supported a young brother, aged 12. He had a brother aged 22, a clerk in Wellington, with whom his mother lived.

To Captain Free: There was a certain amount of skill in trucking. He had ■worked five years at the face at Denniston

William Carson, mine manager, said the appellant was absolutely necessary to the industry. He was a practical miner and got the full shift w.ige. The Chairman said this man seemed to be a bona fide m : ner, and essential to 'he industry. The ease would be adjourned sine die. conditional on appellant remaining in the same industry and working every day to the full capacity. ADJOURNED. Thomas Evan Roberts, dairy farmer, of Katea, Owaka, for whom Mr Lemon appeared, appealed on the ground of undue hardship, as lie had a farm to manage and a wife and child to support. Tha appellant said his height was sft lJ,in. Captain Free: Lots of willing bantams have gone through at sft l^in. The case was adjourned for medical examination. Clement Augustine Narbey, farmer, Glenomaru. appealed on the ground ot undue hardship to his wife and child, and of financial obligations. Appellant stated that he was 31, and had a farm of 505 acres. Two brothers had enlisted and been turned down four or five months ago. The Chairman pointed out that appellant had taken on the responsibility of this farm after it had been demonstrated how serious the war was. This showed a certain thoughtlessness, but the board could not altogether ignore these responsibilities. The" case would be adjourned for three months, appellant to be medically examined in the meantime. Ayson Robertson, farm hand, Puerua, appealed on tin- ground of undue haidsh'p. His two brothers were in camp, and he was the only one left to work (lie farm. He had tried to enlist, and had been fumed down. The case was adjourned till next sitting for medical examination. Thomas Atkinson, Baptist home missionary, of tiouipapa, appealed on the ground that his father was dependent on him. Appellant slated that bis blight was sft IVn. The case was adjourned till next sitting for medical examination. Thomas Ballantine, farmer, of Owaka, appealed on the ground of undue hardship. Ho was the only son at home, and his

father was 66 years of age. Ho suffered from asthma.—Mr D. Stewart appeared in the case.

The ease- was adjourned till next sitting for medical examination.

Robert Sutherland Willooka, farmer, of Balclutha, appealed on the ground of undue hardship. He had had a brother in France, and another was going into camp this month. Mr R. R. Stewart, who appeared in the case, said tho appellant suffered from neuritis of tho sciatic nerve, and would not pass the doctors. Tho case, was adjourned for medical examination. DISMISSED. Alfred Hastings, farmer, of Stirling, for whom Mr R. R. Stewart appeared, appealed on tho ground that he had been rejected by the Medical Board.

Tho appeal was formally dismissed. _ David Stark", teacher, of Waikoikoi, appealed for time to »it for h's D examination on January 19, and also wished to go into camp with his brother in March. Tho ease was dismissed, appellant net to be called up till February 1. Joseph Francis Bray, ploughman, Clydevale, appealed on the ground of undue hardship to his wife and child, and financial obligations. Captain Free said there were no grounds. It was practically an appeal to the sympathies of the board. While appellant was entitled to some consideration, he did not think the board should go as far as appellant asked. The appeal was dismissed, but appellant was assured that ho would not bo called up before a. month had expired. Charles Gordon Shand, farmer, of Hillend, 31 years of age, appealed on tho ground of undue hardship. Appellant said ho hold a Government leasehold of 500 acres, and his brother had a leasehold adjoining of 310 acres. He was married last May. His brother was married four or five years ago. Tho two properties were, worked as one business. They carried 1000 sheep, 300 lambs, 30 head of cattle, and 17 horses. In reply to the. chairman, appellant said he never thought of conscription. He had two brothers—one 26 and tho other 18.

The Chairman : How did you come to get married when you knew there was a possibility of your being conscripted?

Witness: : I tried to Hell my interest in the property, and as I did not do so I thought there was no harm in getting married. I did not think that things were so serious. The Chairman: You don't take much interest in anything beyond your own farm, do you? You appear to be rather listless. Witness did not answer. Witness, continuing his evidence, said his brother was subject to asthma at times. To Captain Free: He did not think his brother would be capable of looking after both farms. The appeal was dismissed. John Paisley, farmer, of Wharetoa, appealed on the ground of undue hardship, as he had a farm of 388 acres to manage. Air It. R. Stewart appeared for the appellant, who said ho was married and had a child a few weeks old. lie had had three brothers on active service. One had been lulled and one wounded. He had three brothers below the military age. To Mr Stewart: He had considered enl>ting, but it was decided that the other brothers could be better spared. Ho had 320 sheep. He employed a boy of 15 on the farm, and could not get a man, though h<; had applied to agencies. He could not say what would happen to the farm if he enlisted. To Captain Free: His younger brothers were aged 19, 1/7, and 15, and were aessistingi their father on a dairy farm. None of them would be able to take charge of appellant's farm.

The Chairman said that in this case three brothers had enlisted, and another, now under age, probably would enlist. In the circumstances, the board decided to grant conditional exemption. Peter Dippie. larmcr, of Paretai, appealed on tho ground of undue hardship, as he bad a da'ry farm to look after. Air R.R. Stewart appeared. Appellant eaid he had 40 cov/s to milk, and found it impossible to get assistance. His milk made a ton of cheese a month. He bought, the farm about six years ago, and was married about four months ago. He had two brothers —William George, 45 year.} of age, married, farming about 10 miles away, and Alexander, 26 years of age, on a small place of 40 acres at Maheno, keeping his father and mother. He had five sisters, all married but one.

Tho board granted the appellant conditional exemption. Alexander Walter Roger, farmer, of •Owaka, appealed on tho ground of undue hardship, as lie bad one brother enlisted and another already away. Mr D. Stewart conducted the appeal. Appellant, who gave bis age as 23. said ho had live broth, -vs.—. Tames, aged 27, single; Robert, aged 25, at the front; Archibald, aged 19. on the farm; Charles, aged 11, at borne; and Arthur, aged 3. His father was 71 years of age. He had six sisters, five at home. On the two farms they bad 21 cows in full milk and a lot of young cattle, 10 horses, and about 550 sliee'p and lambs. Ho had 25 acres of oats

p.r.d 30 of turnips. There wore 246 acres in hi* father's farm and 242 acres in the farm of his brother James, who was just going to camp. The Chairman said it appeared that the father was past work, one brother was at the front and another going. In the circumstances the board thought tho appeal should be adjourned sine die, to come up again for consideration, if necessary, when Archibald reached military age. It was made a condition of exemption that appellant remain in the same occupation and in the management of his brother's farm. Frederick Plow, dairy farmer, Riverside, appealed on the jround of public interest and undue hardship.

Mr R. R. Stewart appeared in the case He handed in a long statement, afrer read incr which the Chairman remarked: "J Fc is working; almost as long as the Military Service Hoard."

Appellant stated that he was milking 45 cows. Tie was 34 years of ago, and. married eight or nino months ago. He had no relatives with whom he could leave tho farm. Conditional exemption was granted, the case being adjourned s : no die. Archihdd Taylor Rutherford, meat inspector, of Balclutha, had an appeal entered on his behalf by Frederick Sidney Pope, head of the Department of Agriculture, Industries, and Commerce. Th" appeal was decided on documentary evidence, conditional exemption bfina ""ranted. TIME ALLOWED. John Wilson, engine driver, Kaitangata,

ppealcc] on tho ground of finnneiiil obliga

tions, arir] asked for two months' time iri which to concludo hia affairs. Mr 1). .Stewart appeared on his behalf. The appeal was dismissed, appellant nol to be failed up before February 6. Alexander William Ogilvy, fanner, of Romahapa, was represented by Mr 1). .Stewart. TTo claimed exemption on the ground that he was tho only son of his widowed mother. Appellant stated that he was 21 years of

ago ant! worked his mother's farm of 50 acres. He had a half share in another property of 230 acres of bush land. He had a married sister, aged 23. in Duncdin. lie was his mother's sole support. She was close en 60 years of age. liis brother-in-law was a sloreman.

To Captain Free: He did not think his mother could look after the four cows if he went away. He took tin the partnership in the 230 acres about-18 months ago.

To Mr Kellett: He would like to get away if it did not come so hard on his mother. The Chairman said this boy seemed to be a young lad for his ago. and did not seem to have considered what it meant to go to the war. He proposed to give him time to talk the matter over with his mother and see what arrangements could be made l . Tho case would lie adjourned for two months, appellant to bo medically examined in the meantime.

Harry Mitchell, painter and paperhangcr, of Balclutha, represented by Mr R. R. Stewart, asked for three months' time to discharge certain business responsibilities. He had four contracts on hand, and did not employ anyone. He did not think ho could get anyone to take the contracts over. He had been medically examined privately, and was satisfied that it was no good going any further with it. He had one brother at the front and one going. Tho case was dismissed, appellant not to be called up till March 5.

Patrick Horan, farmor, of Owaka, was represented by Mr D .Stewart, and asked for timo to dispose of his share in a dairy farm. The ease was allowed to stand down to onable the result of a. sale of the farm at 11.30 to bo ascertained. Mr Stewart said his client would bo quite willing to go if the place wore; sold.

Mr Stewart later reported that the farm had not boon sold. Appellant war- having aclearing sale in. six weeks' timo. The appeal was dismissed, appellant not to be called up before February 19. Andrew Scott, farm servant, of Wangaloa, asked for a month's time to arrange his affairs.

The case was dismissed, appellant not to be called up before February 5. David M Lachlan, sawmiller, of Taho.kopa, asked for time to discharge his business obligations.

Mr R R. Stewart appeared for t.h* appellant, who said he had « partner who could look after the, business.

The appeal was dismissed, appellant not to be called up before February 16.

THE AGE LIMITS. John Sarginson Robinson appealed on the ground that he was over age, having been born in September 27, 1859. Mr Finch conducted the appeal. Thomas Robinson, father of the appellant, produced the family Bible with an entry accordingly. The appeal was allowed. John Law M'Cullough. settler, Kahuika. for whom Mr D. Stewart appeared, appealed on the ground that he was over age. Ho was born on January 7, 1870, in East Taicri.

Mr Stewart said lie had seen the birth certificate, and had forwarded it to the commandant, but it had not been returned.-

The case was adjourned till the certificate was received.

James Record Weir appealed on the ground that ho was under ag-e, ho having been born on July 9, 1897. He produced liis birth certificate, and ihe appeal was allowed.

The appeal of John William Maiden, farmer, Tahatika, who produced a birth certificate showing- that he was 16 on the 21st of last March, was allowed. WITHDRAWN. Robert Lawson, farmer, of Stirling, for whom Mr R. R. Stewart appeared, was granted leave to withdraw his appeal. ITINERARY OF OTAGO BOARD. The following itinerary has been arranged for the. Otago Military Service Board at the close of which it will have made a complete circuit of its district: — Invercargill, January 10, 2.30 p.m., and January 11 and 12, 9 a.m Quecnstown, January 15, 9.30 a.m. (lore, January 16, 3.30 p.m. Clinton, January 17, 10 a.in. Lawrence, January 18, 12 noon. Roxburgh, January 19. 4.30 p.m. Alexandra, January 20, 10.30 a.m Nasoby, January 22, 2 p.m. SITTINGS AT RANGIORA. ; - OHRISTCHURCH, January 5. The Military Appeal Board sat at Rangiora to-day. James Herbert Jarman, farmer, of Kirwen, who is managing farms aggregating 5130 acres, asked for time to- put his affairs in order. lie said that one brother iiad been killed in action, and another had been in camp for three months. The board granted the appeal. The appeal of lVrcivai Clark, woollen mill hand, of Kaiapoi, who had seen nine months' active service, and was discharged as unlit, was allowed. Arthur Leonard Loveday, flourmiller, of Ohoka, said lie had a sister and two children dependent upon him. The case was adjourned fur a month to allow of medical examination. John Garland, farmer, of Bennett's Junelion, appealed because there was no one to look after the farm. The case was adjourned for a mouth, appellant to be medically examined, and evidence of the iitness or otherwise of the brothers to be ascertained. Harry Peirson, farm labourer, of Flaxton, was granted exemption, he being a ileal mute. John George Cook, mustcrer and shepherd, of Oxford, sought four months' exemption to complete a mustering contract, and was granted till March 31. Harry S. Cinders, teamster, of West Eyreton, was granted exemption till the end of February. William George Lvnn, a weaver, of Kaiapoi. who had been" declared unfit by the Medical Board, was granted exemption. The appeal of William James Morgan, farm labourer, of Parnassus, who had previously enlisted and been rejected, was adjourned for a month, appellant to go before the Medical Board. The case of George Booth M'DoualJ, far-

mor, of Cir-t, who supported his mother, and had financial obligations, was adjourned sino die. Tho General Manager of the Railways appealed on behalf of Leonard li. M'Kcown, locomotive fireman, of Rangiora. The caso was adjourned sine die.

The appeal of I'.a-il E. Wilkinson, farmer, of Domett, who is looking after three farms, was adjourned sine die. The uppeal of James Pester, farmer, of West Eyreton, on the grounds of occupation and domestic circumstances, was adjourned for three months, tho appellant to lie medically examined in tho meantime.

Leonard Sharp, apprentice, to a bricklayer, of Rangiora, was granted til] the end of February to complete his apprenticeship. Appellant stated that ho had enlisted before, but had been rejected. The appeal of Hugh M'Kibbin, farmer, of Omilii, on tho ground that ho was over age, was allowed.

Douglas M'Lachlan, farmer, of Omihi, appealed on tho ground of public interest. Tho appellant said ho was one of four brothers eligible for service, living in different places. Ono had enlisted, but was rejected, and two others were drawn in the ballot. Tho board intimated that some member of tho family must go, and adjourned the caso for a month in order to ascertain the position of the others, the appellant to be medically examined in the meantime.

The case of Arthur Moyle, fi,nn labourer, of Rangiora, was dismissed, no hardship being shown. David Alexander M'Kie, farm manager, of Amuri, appealed on the grounds of public interest and undue hardship, two other .brothers being on the farm. The e:iso was dismissed, appellant being allowed to the end of February to gather in his harvest. January 6. The Military Service Board sat at Rangiora to-day. Joseph Juim Rodgers, farm hand. Fernside, was allowed till tho end. of February to get in tho harvest. diaries Johnson, labourer, Saltwater Creek, appealed on the ground of undue hardship, he being the sole support of his aged ntother. Ho had been rejected 12 months previously. The appeal was adjourned lor one month to allow him to be medically examined.

John R. Blackett, blacksmith, Leithfleld, appealed on the ground of public interest, he being the only blacksmith in the district.

'iiie Chairman said it was the duty of the military authorities in every district to find out Ine facts concerning appellants and submit them to the board. The same trouble had been\happening in every case coming before- the board. The board would have to assume on the evidence given that appellant's shop was essential to his district, and would! therefore adjourn the case sine die.

Counsel: ''Until the combing-out period?'' 'the Chairman: "Yes."

The case of John Gebbie, shepherd in the employ of R. C. Dixon, of Eyreton, who looked after 4000 sheep and 4CCO lambs, was adjourned sine die. Walter William Treloar, gardener, Glenmark, stated that he hud a wife and livo children, he having been married nine years. The appeal was allowed on the ground that appellant was not a member of the First Reserve. James William Sheridan, shearer, Waikari, appealed on the ground of undue hardship. The case was dismissed, and appellant allowed one month to finish shearing operations.

liugh Campbell and Samuel John Campboll, farmers, East Oxford, appealed on the grounds of public interest and undue hardship. The appeal of Samuel was adjourned sine die. The appeal of Hugh was dismissed, but he was allowed until the end of February to assist in harvesting operations.

Frederick Alfred Ganderton, Hanmer Springs, mechanical engineer in the Railway Department, appealed on the grounds of undue hardship, he having infirm parents and a delicate \vlfe to support. It was stated that the Railway Department also intended to appeal on his behalf. The case was adjourned until the appeaj by the Railway 'lraffio Manager was received. George Henry Loffhagen, farmer, Kaiapoi, appealed on the ground of undue hardship. He had been rejected as unfit live months ago and since had contracted to lease a farm of 56 acres. The appeal was adjourned for a month to permit a medical examination.

Oliver Bernard M'Cormack, farmer,' Wairarapa, slated that at the beginning of last year he enlisted and was rejected as medically unfit. He then took over from a partner a Government lease of 391 acres at Glenmark and got married. lie was obliged to perforin all his own work, and if he went on active service ho could find no one to look after the farm. The Chairman said he did not know whether any relief would be given in the case of a Crown tenant's appeal. Tho appeal was adjourned pending medical examinal ion.

The appeal was allowed in the case of William Carson Wilson, furniture salesman, Uangiora, who had a wife and three children. Ho had been married 13 years.

.Jo!m Thomas Bloor, farmer, View Hill, stated that since offering his services lust May and being rejected, lie had made arrangements to take over his deceased father's farm. His brother had been invalided from the front, and could not undertake farm work, and appellant bought his share. The appeal was adjourned for n month pending medical examination. The ease of Stewart Nilson, farm hand. Sefton, who has four brothers at the front, and is working a farm for his aged parents, was adjourned sine die. Hugh Keurns, farm labourer, Ohoka, said that of his eight brothers three were at the front, and the others wore under military age. He was quite willing to go when one of the brothers could replace him. Adjourned sine die. Gavin Dalziel Crampton, Waiau, farmer. appealer! on the ground that he was engaged in a work of national importance. The appeal was adjourned sine die. Thomas Edward, shepherd. Amherloy, asked for an extension of time on account of harvesting. Ho was allowed until the "ltd of Februnrv. Albert Archibald Thomson. Waipara. was given until the end of February to assist w ith the liarvi st. Leslie Allan Reese, shepherd and farmer, was tin only man left to work his father's uroporiy of 22'"'0 aeiv.?. The appeal was adjourned sine die. The appeal of Pam-tiel TSu-d. dairy farmer. h'jinra. was adjourned for one month to allow of his being medically examined.

CHRIST/CHURCH, January 8. Before tlio Military Appeal Board at Rangiora today William Edwin Hodgson, of kaiapoi, freezing engineer to (In- North Canterbury Sheep Fanners' Freezing Company, appealed on the ground that his calling up would bo contrary to the public interest. James Ueay, works manager at t iia freezing works, also appealed on bchall of Hodgson upon the ground that Hodgson's services were indispi nsablo to the meat) trade. He stated that at present 1000 sheep and from 40 to 50 head of entile were being killed daily at the works, and they would soon be working at their full capacity. It would take- a man of sharp intelligence to qualify in three months as a refrigerating engineer. He admitted that there was a possibility of the frozen produce not being shipped, in which ease, he said, refrigerating engineers would bo the only valuable men on the premises. The chairman stated that witness's company was. only a now concern, and old freezing- companies were clogged because of the laek of shipping space. Witness replied that the company was providing extra storage to help the farmers to save their flocks. The chairman: And in the meantime New Zealand consumers have to pay a high price for meat while you are storing it here. The chairman said that thia was cue of those border lino eases where the medical examination would be of importance to the board. The appeal was adjourned for a month to allow of the appellant being medically examined and to ascertain the position generally in regard to engineers.

Carl William Trill, farm hand. View Hill, appealed on the ground that ho was not a reservist. He said ho was appealing to test a newspaper statement; otherwise he would not have appealed. His parents were both Germans. He was born before they were naturalised, and therefore, according to the newspaper statement, he w'as a German. This he wished to test. The chairman ,-a : d" that the appellant was a British subject, having been born in a British possession, but the war regulations aimed at son persons horn of alien parents who mirrht bo regarded as antagonistic*. The appellant had expressed no sentiment against the British Empire however. The appeal would be dismissed. Charles Werner Lang, fruitgrower Kaiapoi, appealed noon the mounds that his calling up would constitute undue hardship and be prejudicial to the interests of !ho country, fie possessed a 20-acre place, 13 of which were planted in fruit trees. Ho also objected on religious grounds, as ha belonged to the Brethren. He would not object to performing ambulance work, but he objected to taking up arms. After a lengthy argument between the appellant and the chairman of the board (Mr J. S. Evans, S.JM.), the latter stated that the appellant was not engaged in a production essential at the present time. 11 o had no dependents, and none of his people had gone to the war. He bad a brother who might be able to look after the place. The board recognised that it was a ease of hardship, but could not help that. With regard to the religious grounds it bad been ascertained that a number of the Brethren were serving, and, so far as the board could gather, every man was left to his own in; dividual views. Some considered that thi bearing of arms was contrary to Divinl revelation; others went *o the front. Tin board's own views were quite clear. _ Thoj did not think there was anv prohibition at all in the Bible against the bearing of arm* They did not think Cod or Christ would sanction or approve of any of his follower! turning their backs on women and children needing protection. "As a religious body." Mr Evans said, "'you have not brought yourselves within the section. The appeal will be dismissed for the reasons given, and you will be allowed two months in which to make arrangements with regard to your place.'' The appellant: "What about taking up arms?" The Chairman: "Well?" Appellant: "I cannot do it. T must therefore do the next best thing." The Chairman: "Well, no doubt the military authorities will iix things up for you. We cannot do anything in the matter, as you do not come within the section.' SITTINGS AT WELLINGTON. WELLINGTON, January 3. At the Military 'Service Beard it was mentioned that 3000 men in the railway service bad been released for military duties. The board granted temporary suspensions in regard to several applications by the Railway, Department, also exemptions to two Catholic priests. An application made on benalf of Robert Maxwell Sunley, audit examiner m the Treasury, on the ground of public interest and hardship, was dismissed, but the, military representative agreed to oc tain leavo of absence till the end of April, as the appellant was in charge of a public deb» register and of details of the recent war loan, and time was required to nam another officer to undertake the details of the work, which required special qualifications and a knowledge of the Statutes dealing with tho issue of loans, bonds, and dtben-

Frederick Phillip Monk (clerk in the Dofence Records Office) had his appeal ailjourned, conditional on his remaining in iiis present occupation. He stated that ha had been rejected by the Medical Eoard as unfit. Exemption was granted to three policemen named Wilson. M'Call, and Brown, of Wellington, so long as thc-y remain in the police force. The Defence Department appealed on behalf of Pcrcival Ernest Patrick, accountant, who is assisting in the liquidation of enemy linns' businesses in Samoa.. He had volunteered, but was rejected on act-omit of medical unfitness, and was sent to Samoa. Tho case war, adjourned indefinitely. Exemption was granted in several cases of men engaged in the mercantile marine, and as shearers. An appeal on behalf of William Charles Thorns (Customs officer) was adjourned in» definitely. The Comptroller of Cue to ma sa.id that in 1915 thero wore 53 officers in tho department, and only 21 were now in the first division. / In appearing on behalf of shearers who have appealed against their inclusion in the lists of men balloted for service, Air Grayndler (secretary of tho Agricultural and Pastoral Workers' Union) asked for a definite statement as to their position as regards being called up under the Military Service Act. Ho referred to the scarcity of labour in tho pastoral industry and the fact that wool -was considered indispensable by the Imperial authorities for carrying on tho war, and expressed the hope that tho board would make a definite) pronouncement that shear" ers should be exempt for military service. Ho suggested that shearers of not less than two years' standing should bo exempt. There was a shortage of shearers owing to

tin' number who had gone to the wurvoluntarily. Tho Chairman said the board had do | power to formulate such a policy as was asked for, though the members would welcome .such a ruling, as it would enable them to cone more quickly with the cases. The appeals must bo dealt with on their merits.

January 4. Tho Military Service Board continued its sittings to-day.

Joseph Clill'ord Bradley, audit clerk in the civil service, appealed on the ground of medical unfitness. The appeal was dismissed, the appellant to go before the Medical Board.

George P. Ballachcy did not appear, but forwarded a medical certificate seating that he was unlit. Tho appeal was dismissed. The appeal of Lionel Boicelc, who had twico enlisted and been rejected owing to heart trouble, was allowed. Robert John Kitching, soft goods manufacturer, had his appeal dismissed, but he was allowed two months to arrange his business matters.

Arthur C. Harding, engineer's apprentice, appealed on tho ground of hardship. He was granted leave for a month. James Leonard Climic, draughtsman in the Lands and Survey Department, had his appeal dismissed, but the military representative agreed to secure leave till February 28 to enable the appellant to arrange his affairs.

Stephen John Dudson, clerk in the Publie Trust Office, appealed on the grounds of public interest and hardship. He said he had three brothers at the front. He had enlisted, but had been rejected on account of his age (20 years). He wanted to go with the volunteers. The Chairman said tho appellant could have entered his name as a volunteer as eoon as he reached the age of 20 years. Tho appellant urged that he should bo allowed to go as a volunteer after reaching the . age of 21 years,'which would be in April next. The Chairman: "If that is your only ground of appeal I'm afraid the hoard cannot grant it." The appeal was dismissed. The appeal of Walter Scott Hossacic, labourer, was dismissed. Decision was reserved in tho case of James Brotherston, manager for a city carrying firm. Claude Victor Freyberg appealed on the ground of hardship. He stated that his mother was a widow. Pour out of five sons had enlisted, and one had been killed and another wounded six times. Another brother, Lieutenant-colonel Freyberg, bad been awarded the V.C. Tho appeal was allowed. January 5. Tho Military Service Board sat here today. Tho first case was that of Martin Carson, ship's fireman, adjourned from January 3 to enable Carson to appear. It appeared that he signed on the Karori, but did not turn up. Mr W. T. Young, secretary of the Seamen's Union, said it was clear that Carson had been in Wellington all the time tho appeal was pending, and he was not sufficiently interested to approach Mr Young, who remarked: " I don't see why everybody's time should be unnecessarily occupied with men like that ; if he's not concerned, I'm not." The appeal was dismissed. Harry Murdoch M'Kenzie, coachsmith's apprentice, said his apprenticeship would bo completed in May, and he wanted to be sure that he could get his papers. The board dismissed tho appeal, stating that it was understood that the Government intended to introduce legislation dealing with cases of apprentices, called up before < the expiry of their articles. He also pointed out that section 28 of "Tho War Legislation Amendment Act, 1916," dealt with this matter

Tho case of Ernest Tempest, carpenter, at Petone Workshops, was held over, pendingexamination by the Medical Board. The appeal of Norman Winstanley was allowed, as he was under age. The appeal of Alouise Koyaleeke was adjourned, to enable tho production of a birth certificate, as he claimed that he was only 17 vears old. Mark Birtwhistle asked for time to arrange business matters. He said ho had contracts for the supply of asbestos_ material. Tho appeal was dismissed, tho military representative agreeing to obtain leave till March. n . , The anpcals of Arthur Smith and Harry Satherley were dismissed, neither man appearing. Hugh M'Caldor claimed to be 47 years of age, and n naturalised American. The case was adjourned till the next sitting for tho production of documents. SITTINGS AT MASTERTON. MASTERTON, January 8. The Military Appeal Board dealt with 53 cases at MastertoQ to-day. The principal cases were those of five sons of a farmer named Campbell, all of whom objected to rendering service on. the ground that they did not believe in killing. One said that he did not like taking the lives, of sheep or rabbits. Pressed by a member of tho board as to what he would do if the C rmans were to attempt to outrage the female members of his family, he said he would run away. The hoard dismissed the appeals of three members of tho family, and held over the appeals of the other two for medical examination.