MILITARY SERVICE BOARD.

Otago Witness, Issue 3316, 3 October 1917, Page 25

MILITARY SERVICE BOARD.

SITTING AT GORE.

(Feoh Our Special Reporter.)

A sitting of the Otago No. 2 Military Scryioo Board was hold on September 26, the board consisting of Messrs V. G. Day, S.M. (chairman), A. S. Obeli, and R. Breen. Captain Barrett was the military representative. James M'Kinnell (farm hand, Mataura) applied for an extension of time. —Mr E. M. Smith, who appeared for the appellant, said the reservist was now in camp.—The appellant's father said ho had 650 breeding ewes, besides dry sheep. Ho had 100 acres of ploughing to do yet. Another son drawn in tho ballot had been rejected as medically unfit, but this son was unable to plough, owing to a bad foot. . Witness said he was ,71 years of age. —Tho Chairman said tho reservist was drawn in tho ballot in May, and seemed to have done little work on the farm in the meantime. Tho board would make a recommendation to tho commandant that tho appellant bo granted leave until November 1, although the circumstances scarcely warranted it. John Stanley Robertson (farmer, Waikaka) said ho had not tried to get a man to take his place.—The Chairman said it appeared that it was only a question of supervision, and this could surely be arranged through some financial institution. The appellant would have to go into camp on December 11. Edward Henry Murney (farmer, Tapanui), for Mr Poppelwell appeared, and whoso case had been reported on by the Efficiency Board, said ho had a man engaged for the lambing season. He was arranging for shearing in tho middle of December. One brother was killed in action, and one was in camp. Ho had no accommodation for a married couple on the farm, and if he had to go into camp it meant breaking up tho home. —Adjourned for three months. Andrew Smith (farmer, Heriot) said he had been endeavouring to sell his farm, and a prospective purchaser was expected to visit it this week. —Captain Barrett said that, from the point of national economy, the farm scarcely warranted tho reservist being retained.—Adjourned for a month, when some definite arrangement in regard to the farm has been como to.

Alexander Benjamin Dickson (farmer, Pomahaka), for whom Mr Smith appeared, eaid the Efficiency Board had reported on his case. The farm belonged to his father. Ho and a brother had it leased. The brother was on active service. Tho pi'operty consisted of 1294 acres. His father was able to supervise.—The Chairman said it was only a question of labour. The appeal would be adjourned for three months. David Rodger (farmer, Tapanui) applied for time. —To go into camp with tho January draft.

William Cecil C. Moncur (contractor, Heriot) was granted an extension of time; to go into camp with the January draft. John Blaok (farmer, Wairuna), for whom Mr Cochrane appeared, applied for a rehearing. He said he was the only one on the farm.—Adjourned for three months. John Eades (farm hand, Edendale), for whom Mr Davey appeared, had his appeal supported by his father, who stated that ho was carrying on a dairy farm. Ho had a married son, who was working an adjoining farm, and who milked 80 cows. Ho could get no help from this son.—ln reply to Captain Barrett, tho Chairman said it would be no use referring tho matter to the Efficiency Board, as a report from this source always showed that no labour for this class of farming was available. —Adjourned for three months.

Walter Alfred Bennett (dairy farmer, Glenham), who was represented by Mr Cochrane, said his father was an invalid. He had no help except from his mother and sister. —Adjourned for three months. John M'Callum (farm assistant, ' Waipahi) wanted until after shearing before being required to go into camp. He had about 600 sheep.—To go into came in January. _ George Crawford (farmer, Waikoikoih who was working a farm for his father, had his appeal adjourned for three months. Leonard Dickio (farm labourer, Mataura), for whom Mr Smith appeared, and who had had his appeal adjourned for a report from the Efficiency Board, said he had not tried to procure a man to take his place on the farm, nor had his father done anything in this direction. —Tho Chairman said the farm could well afford to pay for a labourer. —Mr Smith said the board recognised the difficulty of getting labour on a dairy farm.— The Chairman said this only applied where farmers were living from hand to mouth. — The appellant said his father was practically blind. He milked 46 cows. Ho used a machine, his sister helping him. —Tho appellant was allowed until January.

' Cyril John Bennct (farmer, Mataura) said he was the only son in the family.—Adjourned for three months. Thomas Menzies Mitchell (farmer, Mataura) had his appeal supported by his father, who stated that he had two sons at the front, one of whom was in hospital. Gavin Crawford (farm hand, Kaiwera), for whom Mr Poppelwell appeared, had his adjourned appeal further adjourned for three months. David M'Lean (farmer, Balfour), for whom Mr Cochrane appeared, said his eldest brother, who had also been drawn in the ballot, had been classed D. The father was ill. He employed two teamsters. —Adjourned for three months. The case of John Toomey (farm labourer. Wyndham) was further adjourned for three months. James Guerin (farmer, Titipua) said ho had not yet been ablo to dispose of his property. —Adjourned for three months. Alexander M'Kay, who, Mr Poppelwell explained, had only received his notioe and who resided at Riversdale, had his appeal adjourned till next silting of the board. Thomas Hodge (farmer, Riversdale), who was represented by Mr Smith, but who did not appear, had his appeal adjourned till next sitting. Albert Edward Knowles (farm manager, Waipounamu). who was represented by Mr Smith, had his appeal supported by his mother. —Further adjourned fcr three months. Thomas Herbert Ilim-hes (clerk, Gore), who was classed 82, had his appeal adjourned for a month to permit of a medical re-examination. Hugh Colin Mac Gibbon (merchant, Gore), whoso caso was" heard throo months ago. esked for an extension of time. —Granted till November 11. Albert E. Knowles (farmer, Waipounamu), for whom Mr Smith appeared, said he was classed Cl.—Adjourned for three months. Thomas Hughes (clerk, Gore) was classed

82, but tho medical certificato expired that day.—Adjourned for a month. M. 0 Rourke (farmer, Tuturau) was represented by Mr Poppelwell. The appellants father gave evidence as to his inability to get help to work tho farm. Ono son was in tho firing lino for two years. —Adjourned for three months. William Collins (farmer, Wendonside), who was represented by Mr Smith, said two brothers were at tho front. Adjourned for throe months. Colin Robertson (farmer, Waikaia), for whom Mr Smith appeared, said his married sister, whose husband was at the front, was keeping house for him. —Adjourned for throo months. David A. Nichol (farmer, Mataura), whose case had been reported on by the Efficiency Board ,had his appeal adjourned for three months.

Roger C. Tumbull (farmer, Greenvalo), who was represented by Mr Smith, asked for an extension of time. —To go into camp on January 6. A. J. Gerken (shearer, Chatton), for whom Mr Cochrane appeared, asked for an extension of time. Witness said he had three brothers, all under age. He volunteered nearly two years ago, and was rejected. He was now classed CI. —To go with the fifth CI draft on January 13. James Howden (farmer, Waikaka Valley), for whom Mr Smith appeared, said he was the workman on his father's farm. Two brothers were «i tho front. —Adjourned for. throe months. George Scott (farmer, Pukerau), was represented by Mr Smith. The Efficiency Board reported on this case, and it was further adjourned for three months. SITTING AT BALCLUTHA. The Otago No. 2 Military Service Board — Messrs V. G. Day (chairman), R. Breen, and A. S. Orboll—sat at Balclutha on Thursday, when a number of appeals and adjourned cases were dealt with. David Bond applied for a rehearing of his appeal, which was beforo the board some time ago, his reason being that he desired to make arrangements in connection with the lease of somo land held by him. —After hearing his statement, the Chairman said there were no grounds for a rehearing, and tho application would be dismissed, but appellant would bo recommended for a month's extension of leave. John Linklater (farm manager, Hillend), for whom Mrs Roulston appealed, stated that he was the only man she had to manage her farm of 1270 acres, which carried 1400 ewes. —Linklater stated that he had three brothers at the front. He was given until the Thirty-eighth Reinforcements, which will go into camp on January 6, Mrs Roulston in the meantime to endeavour to get some other assistance. Charles Dallas (Te Houka) appealed on the ground of undue hardship, and his father also appealed for exemption for the reservist, pointing out that there was a good deal of spring work to be done on his farm, and he would like time for his son to got this done.—Ho was given until the Thirtysixth Reinforcements. Ernest Dabinctt and James Al exan( l or Pankhurst, who claimed to be Christadelphians, objected to serve in a combatant force. —Tho Chairman said it was remarkable that these men, who were satisfied to accept protection from the military, were not prepared to go and fight.—The appeal of Dabinett was allowed, while that of Pankhurst was adjourned for three months. Henry Malcohn Allan, who applied for an extension of time for three months, was allowed until January 6. The Commandant of the Forces, through his representative, applied for a re-hearing in the case of Alfred Hastings (Stirling).— The Chairman stated that this man had been called up under Clause 35, and had lilso been drawn in the first ballot. He had appealed on the ground that the Medical Board had rejected him prior to his being drawn in tho ballot, which was really no appeal at a.'l. —Mr R. Stewart said the man did not want to appeal, but wanted someone left on his farm. —Adjourned until the next sitting of the board. Tho case of Daniel Edward Weir (Stirling), who had been classed CI, was adjourned until next sitting. ■ Tho appeal of Michael Roidy (Owaka), who had been classed C2, was formally dismissed. The appeals of tho New Zealand Coal and Oil Company in respect of Thomas Moylan, William Miller, William Ramsay, and William Simm were adjourned sine die. The appeals of James Roy Taylor, Richard Melton Jones. David Sutherland Campbell, Edgar Mercer Lcggett, and Walter John Bennett were adjourned for three months. The anpeai of Matthew Brown (farmer, Wangaloa), which was adjourned from the last . sitting: for the production of a m*n named Sutherland, who had made a written offer to the No. 1 Board to lease the property owned by appellant, came on again, but had to be further adjourned owing to Sutherland failing to attend. — Captain Barrett suggested that he bo subpoenaed in the ordinary way, and if ho then failed to attend ho could be arrested.—This was agreed to. ancs the case was adjourned until nevt eating Dominic Patrick Nimola was granted a month's ex tension of leave in order to get a homo arranged for his wife and infant child. , , , Brace Miller Anderson, who had previously been ' rejected for service after enlisting", had his appeal adjourned for three months. , . The appeals of Robert Hastings (Stirling), Magnus George Tait (Waiwera South), Frederick Plew (Paretai). Peter Dippie (Paretai). John Cochrane (Balclutha), Alexander Armstrong (Hillend), and Andrew Deck Robert. (Kaihiku) were adjourned until the next sitting, the .appellants to be medically examined in the meantime. The board recommended that Clarence Woolstein Melton bo granted a month's further extension of leave to enable him to complete some work on his farm at Popotunoa. SITTING AT LAWRENCE. The Ota-go No. 2 Military Service Board —Messrs V. G. Day. S.M. (chairman), R. Breen, and A. S. Orbcll —sat at Lawrence on tho 28th. John Smith Webster (farm labourer, Waitahuna West), for whom. Mr Moore appeared, appealed on the ground of undue hardship.—Counsel stated that out of five sons two had pone to the front, and the appellant was the third, while there were two boys, acf-'l 17 and 15 years respectively. ■—The Appellant stated that he was tho onlv one left to manage his father's farm.— Adiourned for throe months, the Chairman stating that the family record was exceptionally good. Thomas Kell appealed on the ground

that he was the only one to work the farm at Waitahuna. Ho was represented by Mr Moore. —There were four sons away, one having been killed.—Adjourned for three months.

John M'Millan appealed on the ground of undue hardship. Ho was the only ono left to manage the farm at Waitahuna. Three brothers had gone to the front. —Adjourned for three months.

William Bryant Crane (ploughman, Wai tahuna), who was represented by Mr Moore, appealed on the ground of undue hardship. An application had been made for a special medical examination.—Adjourned until next sitting of the board. Harry Noel Winmill (salesman, Lawrence) applied for extcntion of leave until October 14. —Granted.

John Walker (farmer, Miller's Flat)_ appealed on the ground of undue hardship.— Mr F. Duncan appeared for tho appellant, who was described aa working manager of <O7 acres. Ho had a younger brother, aged 37 years, and another brother went away with the Main Body. His father was dead Ho had some oats and other crop 3 still to put in, and his young brother couM not do this work No members of tho National Efficiency Board had seen him about the work on the farm. —The appeal was dismissed, the appellant being given leave until December 11.

Frederick Arden Atkinson (farmer, Tuapeka West) appealed on the _ ground of undue hardship. He was working a farm of 340 acres. Ho had .a brother away with the forces, but there was another brother at Middlemareh who was eligible.— Tho Chairman stated that one of them would have to go, and the appeal would bo adjourned, to bo dealt with by the No. I Board in conjunction with the brother's case.

David Alexander Andrew (shearer and fruit-grower, Roxburgh) appealed on the ground that his calling up would bo contrary to the public interest. —The appeal was dismissed, the appellant to go into camp with the 38th lloinforcements. The case of Thomas Francis Ryan (coal merchant, Waitahuna), for whom Mr Morrell appeared, had been previously jadjourned for a special medical examination. Counsel said this examination had not been conducted.—The case was adjourned until next sitting of the board, appellant to go before the board on Tuesday. Phillip W. R. Gray, who was appealed for by his mother on the ground that he was the only one she had to manage her farm at Millers' Flat, had his case adjourned for three months.

Alexander James Oameron (farm-man-ager, Horseshoe Bend) . appealed on the ground that he had no one to look after his place.—After hearing his statement the board adjourned his case for three months. Mrs Munro applied for extended leave for her husband (Charles W. B. Munro).— The facts were that ho enlisted, believing that the .Second Division would bo going into camp hi October, but now he found that they would not be called until January. He now desired to bo placed in his class in the Second Division. He had a wife and three children, and came in Class D.—The board adjourned the case until March. The appeal of James M'Gibbonwas adjourned until next sitting, appellant to be medically re-examined in the meantime. The appeal of John Lynch (priest, Lawrence) was adjourned for two months in view of the pending legislation in respect to clergymen and military service. SITTING AT DUNEDIN. A sitting of the Otago No. 1 Military Service Board was held in Dunedin on the 28th. The board consisted of Messrs H. Y. Widdowson, S.M. (chairman), A. D. Bell, and E. Kellett. Captain Free was the military representative. The following medical students wore appealed for by Dr 11. L. Ferguson (Dean of the Medical Faculty), and had their appeals adjourned sine die:— Humphrey James Barnicoat (third year student), Kenneth Guthrie Salmond (thud year student, and returned soldier), William Makun Cotter (final vear student), John Raymond Cuthbert (acting house surgeon at Hospital), Charles Mills Greenslade (house surgeon, Auckland Hospital), John William Hall (fourth year student), Alexander Smith Morton (final year student, now house surgeon at Wellington Hospital), Lawrence Ludbrook (fourth year student), and Colm James Campbell (third year student). Ronald Ellis Brown (mechanical dental instructor) was appealed for by the Registrar of the Otago University, on the ground that a suitable substitute could not be obtained.—Adjourned for one month, to see if the Government proposed doing anything in the way of organising dentists on the lines adopted with regard to the medical profession. The following members of the Seamen s Union were granted conditional exemption, Mr Clarke (of the union) appearing for them-.—Arthur King, Thomas B. David, John Thomas Dunn, John Thomas Gilchrist, Ernest Edward Hornbrook, Peter Arthur Sonne Anderson, Albert E. Thurston, John Duncan Cameron, George fl. Cornwall. Richard Crawley, Charles E. David, Reginald Valentine Fox, Angus Grant, William C. Guildford. Frank Hammond, Timothy Kcohane, James King, James Owens, Ben Shaw, Cornelius Wharton, Matthew Wishart, and William Young. The appeals of James Sutherland and Frederick D. Matheson were adjourned till October 8 for further details.—The appeal of John Shepherd was allowed on the ground that he was a Second Division reservist. —In the case of Albert G. Bealo it was shown that the reservist had been a seaman only since September 19, 1916, and the appeal was dismissed, the Chairman stating that an arrangement had been entered into by Mr Young (secretary Seamen's Union) that no appeals would be lodged on behalf of men who had been less than one year in the service at the time of being drawn. Frank William Stockdale (St. Clair), who was classed 81. _ was stated by Captain Freo to be awaiting admission to the Hospital. Ho" asked that the appeal bo ad-jom-ncd for a month.—Granted. Mr Irwin appeared in support of appeals by Herbert Albert Campbell, Archie Edwin Grant. Graham Dowar Brenmer, and Edward Charles Carver (stewards on a hospital ship). —The board decided to adjourn the appeals of Campbell, Grant, and Carver, who had lodged personal appeals, until the return of the shin from her present voyage. The appeal of Brenmer was dismissed, the reservist not to be called up until the return of the vessel from her present voyage. Win. Trusler Snow (merchant. Outram) asked for time. Ho stated that ho would like exemption until January. Ho was en-

devouring to disposo of the business. —Adjourned for two months. John Geo. Mackay (piano salesman, Caversham). —Adjourned till October 8, appellant to bo medically re-examined in tin meantime.

Ernest Roland Morrison (manager and expert of tho Acetone Illuminating Company, Napier), for whom Mr Cooko appeared, said tho company appealed on the ground that- his services could not be replaced.—The Chairman said tho board did not think it was advisablo to send the appellant away.—Tho appeal would be adjourned sine d*ie, and if tho position altered Captain Free could bring the matter before the board again. Wm, Moynihan, jun. (farm hand, Ngapuna) was appealed for by his father, Win. Moynhan, sen., and Humphrey Edward Dillon Moynihan (a brother of the previous appellant) applied for an extension of leave. —Mr Stephens, who appeared for the father, said the latter appellant was required to go into camp with the October draft, but ho now found that the lambing would not be finished by tho time ho was required to go into camp.—Tho appellant said ho had a difficulty in. securing labour. His son Humphrey looked after the stock.— Mr Kellett saidi he was convinced that the labour difficulty was not as acuto as advocates and appellants would mako it appear.—Appellant said he was a district trustee of tho Efficiency Board.—Mr Bell asked Captain Free if, in view of the circumstances, ho would agree to one son being left until tho completion of the lambing. —Captain Free said it was quite reasonable that one son bo left until the lambing was over. —Mr Stephens: We aro asking that one son be left altogether. —Captain Free submitted that this is not reasonable under the circumstances. —The Chairman said that conditional exemption would be granted in tho caso of. William, who was classed CI, but the board could not seo its way to alter its decision with regard to Humphrey, who would be required to go into camp with the October draft.

Robert Pryde (Port Chalmers) appealed on the ground that he was not a First Division reservist. —The appeal was allowed, and tho appellant was allowed lis expenses. Thomas Harry (Port Chalmers) also appealed on the ground that he was not a First Division reservist. He produced his marriage certificate, which showed that ho was married on October 21, 1914.—Appeal allowed, and lis expenses allowed. William Logic Craig (farmer's assistant, Mosgiel), for whom Mr Allan appeared, had "his appeal supported by his father. The reservist said his father's farm, on which he worked, consisted of 105 acres. Ho milked 25 cows during tho season. — Conditional exemption granted. Geo. Duncan (rusk manufacturer, Dunedin) had his appeal supported by his employer (Elizabeth Samson), Mr Calvert appearing for the latter. —Tho reservist said ho volunteered in July, 1915, but was rejected. Tho proprietor of tho business was at the front, Miss Elizabeth Samson (his sister) being his attorney. Prior to the proprietor leaving witness gave an undertaking to Mr Samson that he would not divulge tho secret of the manufacture of the rusks, which were difficult to make and were used by invalids and infants. They were the only manufacturers of this article in the dominion. It would take anyone at least 12 months to acquiro tho necessary knowledge to manufacture rusks.—Elizabeth Samson deposed that she and her invalid sister were solely dependent upon the business for their support.— Tho Chairman said thoy had to consider the position of Miss Samson and her invalid sister. The ground that these rusks were essential to invalids and infants did not weigh with the board. Conditional exemption would bo granted. Charles Headland Atkinson (farm assistant, Middlemarch) had his appeal supported by his father, who stated that he took up his Tuapeka West farm a year after the commencement of the war. The reservist also did work outside the farm, such as ploughing and wood carting. He had 900 isheep on the farm, and there were also 30 cows, which were milked by the reservist's sisters.—Captain Free: Did you not at one time make the remark that "a live ploughman was better than a dead hero?" Witness: Yets, perhaps I did. It was said in a joking sort of way.—The Chairman said the appeal would be adjourned for report and to see what was being done about another brother's appeal. ... Tho appeal of Louis Solomon, who did not appear, was dismissed. Edgar Arthur Parker Bayne (railway fireman, Norman by) had his appeal adjourneu for a report from Mr F. G. Cumminpr. The hearing of the appeal of Walter Douglas Dawson was adjourned till October o The following reservists, who were Class C2, had their appeals dismissed or withdrawn :—John George Bain (Mauiigatua),Archibald Ferguson, Chas. Henry Findlay (Kensington), Richard Victor MGarrigle (Anderson Bay). William Wright (Shands), and Eric Francis Black (Henley) Albert Brightling (Merton. Mr Scurr), asked for an extension of time to enable shearing and other work to be completed.— Allowed till the January draft. The appeal of Herbert Philip Keen (South Dunedin) was adjourned till October 8 for further inquiry by Mr Cumming. Michael Augustine O'Connell (farmer. Ngapuna, for whom Mr Hay appeared) had his appeal adjourned from a previous sitting for inquiry.—Appellant said he had financial obligations. His father (now living in Dunedin) was not in good health, and could not look after tho farm. The man at present assisting was not capable of management.—The board said it considered some arrangements could be made for the supervision of tho farm. In consideration of his domestic arrangements, however, tho board would grant an extension of time. Tho appeal was dismissed, the appellant not to be called up before tho January draft. Albert Henry Scott (a voluntary recruit) asked for a month's extension of time to enable him to complete his apprenticeship as a painter and glazier.—Extension granted until November draft.

A sitting of tho Otago No. 1 Military Service Board was held on Friday. The board consisted of Messrs H. Y. Widdowson, S.M. (chairman), A. D. Bell, and E. Kellett. Captain Freo appeared as military representative. George Thompson (sanitary plumber. St Kikla). —Adjourned for report by Mr Cumming. Tho adjourned appeal of Margaret Mee, on behalf of John Mee (Kuri Bush), which was held over from the previous sitting for the production of a witness, was re-' Burned. — J. B. Nichol appeared for tho appellant.—James M'Donald stated that he

was a general farm labourer, and was 49 years of age. Ho had been brought up on a farm, and had been engaged in farm work all his life. His principal work wa.3 among horses. Ho remembered being informed by Mr Nichol that a manager was wanted for Mrs Moe'fi properly in order to release John Mee. He understood that a knowledge! of mixed farming, which included dairying and dealing in stock, was required. Ho did .not care to undertake dealing j n stock, as this would necessitate his attendance at auction sales. Ho objected to this bcoause he was dull of hearing. He informed Mr Nichol that he did. nob know much about dairying, but thab otherwise ho was capable of undertaking l , tho duties. Ho decided voluntarily that) Mr Nichol should writo tho letter referred to. —Mr Nichol said he wished to clear thi3 matter up, as' Captain Free had cast certain suspicions upon him personally.— Captain Free, denied thJ3, and said that if ho had conveyed this impression it was quite unintentional, and he apologised. What ho suggested was that tho reservisb had exaggerated tho position to M'Donald.—John Meo (recalled) said he v/a3 still partly employee! by Thomson and Co., who wero paying him £4 a T.-ecik and found, also commission. He put in half his>time ab his.mother's farm. He had never said thab he did not intend to go to tho war.—Mr Nichol said that as Captain Free had suggested that Mee was a shirker ho had communicated with Thomson and Co., who had informed him that Mee had asked to bo relieved to go away with the Twentyfourth Reinforcements. —Captain Free said it was evident to his mind that tho reservist did not want to loso a lucrative billet with Thomson and Co.; the farm was_ a secondary consideration. —Tho reservist said that ho did general work on tho farm; he looked upon tho farm aa a partnership affair with his brother, subject to his mother's interest in it. All his earnings wero put into tho farm. His stock dealings on his own account were not extensive.—The Chairman said the board was of opinion that the reservist was -nob absolutely essential to the farm. The appeal would be dismissed, tho reservist nob to bo called up till the November draft.— Mr Nichol asked that ho might be given' until tho December draft. Ho wanted to sow down some grass and attend to other work.—Mr Kcllett: Who is c,oing to do this work? Tho reservist has not done it hitherto. —Mr Nichol said that on this par-> ticular property grass la;ted only one year. —Tho Chairman: We ore of opinion that November is- quite long enough. Kenneth Walmsley (farmer, Taicri Bush) asked for an extension of time. —Reservist not to go until January. Simon Anderson, for whom Mr Payno appeared, said he had no objection to going, but wished to bo placed in non-combatant service.—lt was decided to dismiss the appeal and recommend that the appellant bo placed in the ambulance or medical section. The appeal of Stanley John Andrew Was allowed, ho having enlisted prior to being drawn in the ballot.

Wm. Samuel Davies (ironmonger, South Dunedin). —Adjourned for inquiry by Mr Gumming. v Joseph Wm. Murray Fraser (teamster, Seacliff), who was represented by Mr E. J. Smith, appealed on domestic grounds.— Adjourned till the- last sitting of the board in November.

The appeal of Messrs Hall and Co. on behalf of Frederick Georgo Edison Hall (Mr Hanlon) was, on the suggestion of Oaptain Free, deferred for inquiry. Herbert Wm. Home (letter-carrier, Caversham). —Adjourned to allow application to be made for financial assistance.

Sydney Chas. Gaspar (table hand, employed by Hall.enstein Bros, afc Saweyrs Bay). —Adjourned till October to permit of application being made for financial assistance.

William Henry Kedzlio (farmer, Halfway Bush) was classed B2.—Mr Stephens said the appellant would require to bo medically re-examined on October 12, and he suggested that the appeal be adjourned until after that date. —Request complied with.

Joseph Crawford M'Cay (expressman, Musselburgh) asked for time. He was endeavouring to sell out as a going concern.— Adjourned for a month. Craig Thomson (farmer, Maungatua), for whom Mr Allan appeared, said he was one of eight sons, four of whom -were at the • war. One had been killed, and two had been classed C2.—Mr Allan said appellant had been rejected on medical examination from, an Oddfellows' Lodge, but was now classed A by the Military Medical Board. Appellant's father stated that ho had two farms —one of 353 acres and another of 148 acres. They were three miles apart. It was only on account of his other sona being delicato that he wished to retain the present reservist. —The Chairman said ho had to" congratulate Mr Thomson on having sent four sons to the front. The reservist would be granted conditional exemption. Norman M'Donald West (farm assistant, Mihiwaka) had his appeal supported by his father (James West).—Mr Hanlon, who appeared for the latter, said the family carried on mixed farming. The father was totally blind, and the son was his principal support.—Conditional exemption granted. Frank Erio Howard Nicoll Mong (clerk, Caversham) produced a certificate showing that he was born on October 2, 1897, and « was therefore not a reservist.—Appeal allowed. , Frank Percy (grocer s assistant, Port

Chalmers), who asked for financial assistance, had his appeal adjourned to enable application to bo made to tho Financial Board.

Frank Rawnsley (firewood carter, Waitati) appealed on the ground of undue hardship. Ho had an aged father audi mother, also a sister to support. Ho had 134 acres of land. He had no stock on the farm, and made a living through carting firewood to the citv. His parents had not been sufficiently long in tho dominion to qualify for the old-age pension. He did not think the property would let.—Adjourned for a month. In connection with the appeal of Frank Howitt Wilkinson, Captain Free stated that tho appellant was at present in England, and was attached to the New Zealand Expeditionary .Force in tho machine gun section. —Appeal allowed. Jesse Samuel Morris (farm labourer, Otokia) appealedaon/religious grounds Me said he followed the teaching of Jesus. Ho belonged to an organisation known as tho Testimony of Jesus. Ho would not sign any document requiring him to undertake combatant or non-combatant service He was prepared to sign on for agricultural service.—The Chairman explained that it appellant signed an undertaking to do noncombatant service, and his appeal was allowed, ho would, according to the regulations, be required to do agricultural work under the Government Agricultural JJe-partment.-Appellant: Will you guarantee that?—The Chairman: It sefms to me that although you are a religious body youi are not prepared to trust anybody else.—After some further discussion, the Chairman said: "You sign that undertaking or not, Justjas you like."—The appellant then signed the undertaking.-Albert E. Leedham, storekeeper, Otokia, deposed that he was an elder of the Testimony of Jesus. This name was "assumed after the declaration of war, so that they could comply with tho provisions ot the Military Service Act. He was elected to that position by tho preachers. Meetings wcrtf held in his (witness's) home. Ho believed in the literal interpretation, ot the Scriptures.—Mr Bell: If you saw a wounded brother in need of assistance on the battlefield, would you render it ?—Witness: 1 would not be there."—(Laughter )-r-Mr Bell: Are you aware that Roman Catholio priests,\ for instance, have gone out at great personal risk— some Of them being_ killed, as a matter off act-to succour their brothers in arms.—Witness said he understood they had.— Mr Kellett: "Do you think Jesus Christ would do what Mr Bell has said if were here today?"—Witness: I do not. -wiink he would."—Tho Chairman: . It Christ wore hero to-day Ho would fight the forces of evil, and that is what wo are doing at present. I wish you would look at matters in a broader light."'—Mr Kellett: "How long has the appellant belonged to this body ?"—Witness: "About two years. There was a change in his life at that time —Mr Kellett: "Yes, a change in his life since the war began. It seems to me that you and others like you are prepared to take all the benefits and stand by and let others bear tho brunt of the fighting. Witness: 'lt is contrary to the teaching of tho Lord Jesus Christ."—The Chairman: ' "Do you believe in serving in tho ambulance'?"—Witness: "No."—Mr Kellett: "you do not believe in doing anything to help to win the war."—The Chairman: "I cannot understand you people. The appeal will bo dismissed." . The Rev. Father Coffey appealed on behalf of John Edward M'Gettigan and Robt. Louts M'Cormack (students at Holy Cross College). He explained that they only warned time to sit for their matriculation ext.\r.inations in December.—Granted. The appeal of tho Rev. Father Coffey on behalf of the following was also heard: Daniel Patrick Buckley (priest, Riversdale), Matthew Barnabas Ryan -' (theological student, Dunedin), and Leo O'Sullivan (theo : logical student, Mosgiel).—Adjourned sine dio. . William Herbert Penrose (draper), for

•whom Mr Stephens appeared, said there were three sons in tho family. His mother was in delicate health. —Appellant's father eaid it would be extremely difficult for him to carry on his business. Two of his sons had already gone, and ono had been killed. —Captain Free suggested that the appeal be adjourned for two reports —one from tho Efficiency Board, to deal with the business aspect, and the. other as to the domestic reason.—The board agreed to the suggestion.

John Fairweather Hutton (patternmaker), for whom Mr Payne appeared, was appealed for by his employers (Messrs Anderson and Co.). —Mr Payne said the reservist withdrew his personal appeal. He was supporting tho employers' appeal, as he recognised that the firm would suffer a decided hardship if ho had to go into camp. The reservist was not r .ily a patternmaker, but did the fitting up of dairying machines. —Tho reservist said, as far as be knew, it would bo impossible to get a man in Dunedin to take his place. It would tako a patternmaker from 12 to 18 months to do tho work at present being done by witness. —The board decided to adjourn the case for a report. Henry Wm. Wilson (farmer, O'tokia), for whom Mr Calvert appeared, appealed on the ground of undue hardship.—Henry Wilson (father of the appellant) said he had two sons, ono of whom was away with the * Bth Reinforcements. He owned two farms —one at Otokia and one at Henley. Ho was dependent 'on his son to work tho farms. If he could dispose of ono of tho farms ho would not object to.his son going. ' Witness said ho was not able to do any heavy work.—The Appellant said he and his brother wore interested in tho property. He was married, and had one child.—Adjourned for two months. Andrew James Sinclair (bootmaker, ETai-k-orai), for whom Mr Scurr appeared, said ho had an aged father and mother, and two eisters living with him. .His only brother was at the front. —Referred to Mr (Humming for report. The appeals of Joseph Robson, George Young (Brighton), 'George .Fraser, and Ernest Millar M'Brido were adjourned fo: - reports from Mr dimming. Joseph Patrick O'Kane (contractor and carter, South Dunedin) appealed on the ground of undue hardship.—Mr Scurr, who appeared for appellant, said ho was suffering from muscular rheumatism. He wanted time to wind up his business, but counsel thought tho appellant should bo mcdically re-examined.—Adjourned for medical reexamination

Edgar Norman Osborn (engineer, Port Chalmers) was granted until the December draft to permit of his sitting for an examination.

Horace William llatkus (engineer. Port Chalmers), for whom Mr Cordock (U.S.S. Company) appealed, had his case adjourned eino die.

Murdoch Ross (under foreman joiner, Port Chalmers), who was appealed for by Mr Cordock, was dealt with in a similar manner.

William Charles Hugh Watt (ship's officer) was granted conditional exemption. Robert Scott Moody (clerk) had his appeal adjourned pe'nding an application for financial assistance.

Michael Maloney (railway shunter, N.E. Valley), who did not appear, had his appeal dismissed.

Tho following reservists, who were classed C2, had their appeals either formally dismissed" or withdrawn: —Harry Macdonald (Hindon), Robert Clark (Hooper's Inlet), Oliver George Canty, Joseph Lowrv Hannon, Louis John Horton (Henley), William Hanson'Marshall (Woodside), Albert Payne, John Thompson, Alfred Francis Whitehorn, William Michael Wilkinson, Charles Thoe. William Wilkinson, Horace John Alger, Daniel Flanagan, Ralph Holland (Waitati), Robert Henry Whitton (Middlcmarch), ana Frederick Bertram Barlow (Port Chalmers;. John Rhodes (Musselburgh), who was classed 82, withdrew his appeal.

APPEALS BY ROMAN" CATHOLICS. WELLINGTON, September 27. At tho Military Service Board sitting today the appeals of four Roman Catholio theological students were discussed,. and they were recommended- for service in the Medical Corps. Tho appeals of six Catholio priests were adjourned for a month.

WEST COAST SAWMILLERS' REQUEST. . GREYIMOUTH, September 30, At the Military Appeal Beard the West Coast sawmillers requested consideration for tho exemption of sawyers, breaker-down men, and leading bushmen. The sawmilling staffs, it was represented, had been so depleted tHt it would be impossible to replace these men, _on whom tho carrying on of saw-milling depended. If they were taken by tho military, the mills would have to close down, but if they were exempted it would bo possible, to eke out an existence with the aid of raw recruits. Tho Chairman (Mr Evans, S.M.) suggested a reduction in the number of mills and in tho quantity of timber cut for export. It was advisable that only the best mills should be kept going. The Millers' Association could agree as to reduction. The board asked for details as to average output, capacity, etc.