DOT'S LITTLE FOLK.

Otago Witness, Issue 3383, 15 January 1919, Page 56

DOT'S LITTLE FOLK.

Dot Invites snort letter* from her young friends throughout to* DoaaiDOon on matter* of interest, to them* selves, the result at their observation* te the animal world, description* of anythinf fch*y aro intonated te* of the district te which they live, of their school and horn* life, holiday trip*. *o. Too letters aro te te written by the littls folk themselves, and addressed "Dot, oat* of Editor Witness,"

Dot's Little Folk's Badges with' pui, for uso a» a brooch, obtainable on application to Dot, Price. It Id post lree, in penny or halfpenny stamps.. Acto. Cards are obtainable from Dot, Witness Office. Dnnedin. Price. Od for 26.

LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK. Itotto:—We write for the benefit of others, not for ourselves. No letter to contain more than 360 words. Djear Dot,—The Kelso Caledonian sports •were held to-day, and I intended going, but it turned out to be so wet that I did not. My father is thinking of starting a bootrepairing shop in Tapanui again. My sister and I are going to keep house for him, and fo to the High School. I was going to ’alnierston for my holidays, but I do not think I will get this season. My sister, Maheru, had the influenza, but she was the only one in the family who had it. There was a slight fall of snow here on the longest day, but it soon" melted with the rain on the day following. My sister is sitting for / the Junior National Scholarship this year, but it has been postponed owing to the influenza. Kind regards to Mother’s Lassie, Kilmeny of the Orchard, and all the rest of my correspondents, not forgetting yourself.— Yours truly, A BLUE-EYED MAIDEN (Pomahaka). [I hope your sister does very well in the examination when it takes place.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —May I join your page. I am 12| years old. I have a cousin who has joined; her name is Bookworm, We have got a little pup named Bow. I have four ducks of my own and a hen. \ve have two little ducks and two chickens. I have a little foal. I call it Dandy. It is bay, with a white patch on its forehead.—Yours truly, • TEKAHIKA (Te Araroa). [I have sent the badge, Tekahika, and hope’.it reaches you safely. You have quite a young farmyard «to look after.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Seeing this is New Year’s Night, think I will endeavour to write a few lines to our dear old page. I meant to write ere the old year left us. It has left behind some very sad homes. The friends of Sharpshooter will indeed be sorry to know the poor lad died while held captive by our cruel, heartless enemy. I am sure, Dot, the Little Folk will be sorry to know of White Rabbit’s loss.’ We are having terN rible weather here for Christmas. We have my returned brother home at present, and, needless to say, Dot, we are very pleased, and are also having a jolly time, as it is the first Christmas we have had him for four years. Hydraulic stayed up north. He seems to be enjoying himself all right. There seems to be quite a number of L.F. in Lumsden. Lumsden was roused the day the news - of the signing of the armistrice came through. The false report deadened all excitements for the peace report. On the Friday there was a concert in the afternoon, and in the evening a procession, concert, and dance. I think everyone enjoyed themselves. On the Tuesday all excitement seemed to be far away. Some of the residents were victims of that most awful epidemic. Things were very quiet in the evening. • The openair concert was very nice. Then three was a small display of fireworks for the children. I think they enjoyed the bonfire the best. I think I 'will conclude now by wishing you and all the L.F., including all my correspondents, a prosperous and happy New Year. Best love to Happy Jim and the rest of the Happy Band.—Yoursr truly, MERLO (Lumsden). Dear Dot, —Please may I become a member of your happy band? My uncle gets the Otago Witness, and I enjoy reading the letters very much. I am 14 years old. I passed the Sixth Standard this year, and gained my proficiency. We live on the hill between Dunedin and Port Chalmers, and we get a beautiful view of Dunedin. We watched the regatta, which took place at Broad Bay on New dear’s Day. Love to all D.L.P. and yourself.—Yours truly, CHRISTMAS LILY II (N.E. Valley). [You will notice that there is another* writer using the N.D.P. you have chosen, so if you wish you could pick another one. You are very welcome to join us.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —It is very windy to-day. Moat of the farmers have started shearing. I was out goat-shooting the other day with a friend, and we shot six. We found a mob of about 20, but they got away. Goat’s meat is very nice to eat. Our school starts on January 28. There are about nine D.L.P. up here. There has not been many visitors up here this year. There was a dance on New Year’s Night. Love to Soldier Boy.— Yours truly, SOLDIER BOY’S MATE (Glenorchy). Dear Dot, —Timaru had a big hailstorm on New Year’s Day, and the hailstones were as big as marbles. The gardens were completely spoiled, and it seemed rather a bad start for the New Year, didn’t it? The bathing season is now in full awing, but the weather only allows one to go for a bathe about every second day. Well, I must conclude. Wishing you and all the L.F. a happy New Year, and kind regards to all the L.F. and my correspondents, not forgetting vourself.—Yours truly, TIMARU’S LOVER (Timaru). Dear Dot, —I hope you have escaped the “flu. I had it for a few days. Oru school opens on January 28. We are having vqry unsettled weather at present. We have 28 cows milking. Best love to all the D.L.P., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, AULD LANG SYNE (Barkly). Dear Dot, —The holidays are now over, and the people are again settling down to work. It was very quiet down here, and the weather seemed to have upset everything. On Boxing Day I journeyed to .the Bluff, and as it was fine a large number took advantage of spending the day either at Riverton or Bluff On New Year’s Day It was simply pouring, and’ not many took to the travelling lor a wet day’s enjoyment. The Bill? regatta was to have been held, but as it did nothing else but rain, and the water

being too rough, it was postponed until a later date. The influenza here is going gradually, and I think it will not be long before the people are back to their proper health. With kind regards,—Yours truly, THE HEROINE OF BROOKLEIGH (Invercargill). [I have posted the badge, and hope it reaches you safely.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join ypux happy band? I am nine years old. My cousin is up here, but she is going home soon. We have a pet lamb, and we feed him four times a day. My sister .and I were learning music, but our music teacher is not teaching now. It has been wet up here for the last week. Kind regards to Pansy for Thoughts, Chinese Lily, and Shells of the Ocean.—Yours truly, SUNFLOWER (Rivorsdale). [You are very welcome to join us, dear.— DOT.]

Dear Dot,—We had a lovely hailstorm this morning, which lasted for about an hour, doing a great amount of damage to the flowers, trees, and vegetables. Silvery Moonbeam is ' spending New Year with us, and we have had a lovely time. We had a number of snapshots taken, as a boy friend of ours has a camera. There was an expeditionary mail in last night, and I got two letters from the front, while my sister received 12. I was going to go to the L.F. picnic in Timaru this year, but as it is being held out of Timaru I will not be able to go, although I would like to very much. Silvery Moonbeam and I have decided to held an L.F. pionic in the Oamaru Gardens on Easter Monday. We will call a meeting of the Oamaru L.F. before then to make jinal arrangements. I "am too late to wjjsh you the compliments of the season, but I wish you good luck in the coming year. Best wishes and kindest regards to Silvery Moonbeam, Molly Bawn, Thora, Martin Rattler, Terra Nova 11, Lady Levenside, Aotea Roa, Sir Rowland, The Pacer, Lake of Killarney, and A True Patriot, not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, SYLVA (OamaruJ. Dear Dot, —This is the first time I have written to your page. I am 11 years old, and in Standard V, and perhaps will be in Standard VI next year. My mother and father were away for a holiday last Week. I am going io -Invercargill next week for a holiday. Love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, HONEY-SUCKLE (Glenham). [You are very welcome to join us, dear.— DOT.]

Dear Dot,—lt is raining here to-day. _ I was up the town on Christmas and New Year's Eve, and I enjoyed myself very much. The farmers will not be able to shear their sheep on account of the wet weather. I am in the Fourth Standard at school. We have the telephone on at our house.. The influenza has not been very severe here. I am 12 years old, and will be 13 on the 26th of August.. I have one brother who is 13 years old. "We have a pony called Dot: I Was at a concert last night, and then waited for the dance, and got home at 15 minutes past 2 in the morning. My brother and I were going to Miller's Flat to-day only i; was too wet. I know Pearl Blossom, Teireraire, and Fruitpick;r. Love to all th-3 other D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.— Yours truly. JOHN BULL fßoxburgh). Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band? I am seven years old, and in Primer 111. I like going to. school, as there are other little boys of my age going. Love.—Yours truly, DTJART CASTLE.

[lt is nice to have friends about one's own age to play with, Duart Castle. —DOT.] Dear Dot, —Here we are again into another year. Fancy, Christmas and New Year are over again, and now we are pegging along waiting for next Christmas to come, which, I hope, will not be so quiet as this one has been. "We had a lovely day f° r the Riverton regatta, but the weather we had at Bluff was something awful. Really, it didn't know whether to rain or not. It Was great eeeing the crowd ducking under any piece of shelter available when a sboWer came on, and then venturing forth again after it was over. All the jolly holidays are over now till Easter, but if we did have more holidays now they would not be much good to us, for it is too rough to go anywhere". Hoping that you are having better weather up north than we are having here, and with love to you and all the D.L.F.— Y.oxirs truly, DEADWOOD DICK (Invereargill). [We are not much better off than the south as far as the weather is concerned.—DOT.]

Dear jJot,—May I join your band of Little Polk? What a grand rally you had for 0.W.W., Dot! It must be very gratifying to find that so many O.W. remember the page. Didn't this dour Scotch town go quite mad on peace day! But the influenza coming so soon afterwards took the "gilt off the gingerbread," as the saying goes. Well, Dot, for a new chum I have occupied quite enough of your valuable space. Wishing you and the Little Folk every good wish for the coming year.—Yours truly, BOOKWORM 11. [I am very happy to have you join us. If you object to bsing the second you might choose another N.D.P.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —We did not go anywhere for our Christmas holidays. We are going to Queenstown at Easter instead. Queenstown is a very pretty place. We have been there before. With love to all the Little Folk, not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, C-OOD-BYE-E (Dunedin). [I have posted the badge, dear, and hope you receive it safely.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I am 17 years of age, and T work in a solicitor's office, which I like very much. Is it not sad to see that so many L.F. have lost dear ones during this recent epidemic, and I am sure that each of us send them our deepest sympathy. I enclose the required amount for the badge, which jjlease send to oare of Box 225 to ensure safe delivery, as I see that a few have gone astray. With best wishes for the coming year to all L.F. and yourself.— Yours truly, CARFAX (Dunedin). [ifou are very welcome to join us, Lady Carfax.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I scarcely dare send these few lines after my long silence, but my intentions have been good. Somehow things will insist on cropping up just when I want to sit do-wr.>Kflid write. It must be over a year since I last wrote, and during that time I have left my happy home in Central Otago to cross the briny ocean to the North Island, where my mother bought a little farm. I find a great difference in the climate and surroundings up here, and feel very homesick sometimes, as is, I suppose, only natural." There are* no D.L.F. about here, save my sister and I, but I have mentioned, the page to a few of my schoolmates, who seem to like the idea very much, and 1 are eager to send in a letter to Dot. A few of my mates

and. I were out at Ngaere Gardens on Boxing Day. There was a big picnio, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely —at least, I did. iNgaere Gardens is an ideal place to apend a holiday. The lawns, flowers, and trees are beautifully kept. There is .an ocean wave and a water shoot, a lonely lake on which one can row in pretty little boats, tennis courts, bowling greens, and a quaint assortment of animals and birds, from just the tiniest guinea-pig you ever saw to a great big ostrich. There are refreshment rooms also, but most picnickers fetch their own lunch, and eat it in one of the delightful little nooks for which the garden is famous. Mother and I are going to New Plymouth soon to spend a few weeks', and I am looking forward to that time, as New Plymouth is said to have a nice beach. Christmas Lily was there last winter, and enjoyed herself. Well, Dot, as there is no more news of any interest, I will have to close. With best wishes to all the L.F., not forgetting yourself.—lours truly, THE BESSES O' THE BARN (Eltham). [I have no doubt the charms of your new home will, soon overcome the longing for the old one.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —This is my first letter to your page. I am 10 years of age, and in Standard 111. My mother has a few nice roses, some of which are out. There is going to ba a good many apples on our trees this year. We are milking two cows and feeding two pigs.—Yours truly, SUNBURST (Taieri Beach). Dear Dot, —May I become a member of your band of Little Polk? I am 12 years old, and in Standard VI. I have one brother and. one sister. I know Mudlark and Mudlark's Mate, while War step is one of my mates. There are a good many people at Taieri Mouth, all the houses being full. With love to all the other Little Polk.—Yours truly, CAPTAIN MUGFORD. [I am very pleased to welcome Sunburst and yourself to the page, dear. I have posted the badge.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I am staying at my auntie's just now, and am having fine fun. My uncle made me a crossbow, and I am trying to kill birds with it; We have some cheeky sp arrows here. They come into the house, and my uncle caught one and painted his head with gold paint. I have seen him once since, and he does look funny. . Love to all the L.F.—Yours truly, ROCKET. [Do not forget to write on one side of the paper only, please, Rocket. The .painted sparrow will not be so venturesome again, I am sure.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —We did not go for a holiday at Christmas. On Boxing Day we went up the hill for a little picnic. It was very hot walking up the hill. We went to the Naseby sports on New Year's Day, and I enjoyed myself very much. I was to"o late for the girls' race, as I did not see them starting. Last year I won 3s in. the girls' race. There was a great crowd at the sports. We have no apricots, apples, peaches, plums, or greengages, as thay were frosted. Some of the gooseberries and black currants are frosted also. Our pet lambs are getting big now. When they get into the 1 garden they give me a good run before I can get them out. They can run faster than I can. There is going to be a dance on Friday night. We will soon be cutting the hay. Love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, TULIP BLOSSOM (Oturehua).

[lt is very unfortunate- to lose all your fruit in such a manner, Tulip Blossom, but I suppose one has just to put up with it.— DOT.

Dear Dot, —We are having very disagreeable weather at present. Christmas and New Year hate once more passed. On Christmas Day I was at the sea beach for the day, but it was very stale. I went to a pionio in the bush on New Year's Day, and enjoyed myself immensely. We have all had the influenza. The 10 of us were all down at once. Dad was taken to the hospital, and was there for three weeks. He is home again now, but he is not to do any work for a month. There was only one death in this distriot. We are leaving this district soon, and are going to Lower Hu.tt to live. Are there any L.F. up there? Kindest regards to Minetta, Glenhamite, Fiona, L.M.S., Mountain Lily, Firefly 11, A Girl From the West, lied Riding Hood, and all the L.F,. not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, RIBBON GRASS. [There are some L.F. at Lower Hutt, Ribbon Grass. Princess Georgina and Busy Bee live there.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —It is very windy to-day and cold. I was sick yesterday. Puss has a camera, and she took Cherry's Mate and I together, and they are all right. I am getting a cold, Dot. I hope you have not had the influenza yet. We haven't had it, but I think it is all away now. I went to the beach on New Year's Day, and enjoyed myself very much. It wasn't a very nice day, as it was raining some of the time. Puss, took two of my cousins' photos, and their faces were all funny with the sun. We had a letter from my brother at the front, and he said he would ho back at Easter in one letter, and in the other said he would be back to harvest; but I don't think so. I haven't done my work yet, so I suppose I will have to do it. I have a lot of flowers out in my garden. It is going to rain again to-day. I wish it would stop for a week or so. We will soon be going back to school. I don't like going to school, because I have too many lessons to learn. Love to all the D.L.F. and your own o.*ar self, Dot.—Yours truly, CHEERY (Otekura). Dear Dot, —The weather has been very cold. I enjoyed myself on New Year's Day. My uncle and auntie from Waikakahi were down to spend the New Year with us. The sun is shining beautifully to-day, and the wind is blowing, I am not very fond of going out in the wind when I have a cold. Cherry was very sick on Friday, but she was able to go about on Saturday. Love to Starlight Rose, Cherry, Peony Rose,' Olive, and your own dear self. —Yours truly, CHERRY'S MATE (Otekura). Dear Dot. —My mother and sister had the influenza, but they were both away from home. I was working in the shearing shod for three days, and I got £l. My brother was working for eight days, and he got £1 55.. I expect there are other D.L.F. making a good cheque, too. My two pups have grown into dogs, and catch a number of rabbits. We will soon be riding to tichool now, and the ponies won't like that, for they have had a long holiday. Love to White Iris, not forgetitng yourself.—Yours truly,

A SAILOR BOY (Clyde). Dear Dot, —During last year I joined the Boy Scouta, and had a day at Ravensbourne. We had to stop our meeting owing l to the scourge that has brought sadness to many a home. I am at Roxburgh for my holidays, and have a job fruit-picking.

I saw several member's here wearing the badge. The weather is very changeable. The longest day was a cold day, and snow was on the hills near. There was a man of a certain nationality who said he did not see why we should not have the cold weather in the summer when it was so hot, and the hot weather in winter, when it was so cold. J 3.6 must bo getting his wish in Boxburgh this summer. Wishing you a pleasant New Xear. —Yours truly, DADA'S WEE CHAPPIE (Roxburgh).

Dear Dot,—We have finished shearing, and I am so glad. We are having very cold weather just now. We have a little grey kitten now, and we do not know where it came from. On New Year's Day. we were going for a picnic, but just a 3 we were ready to go it started to rain, so we had to stay at home all day. My two aunties and I went for a picnic yesterday, and it was lovely in among the bush. We have a loi of black currants growing, and they are lovely with sugar and cream. Well, I must say good-bye just now.—Yours truly, MANUKA BLOSSOM (Five Rivers). Dear Dot,—We are having dreadfully cold weather up here lately. We all escaped the influenza. I had a letter from Postman Henry about a month ago. My sister is enjoying herself in the North Island. Love to Postman Henry, Heather Lily, Silver Star, Snowdrop Queen, Eunice, Cannock Chase, and all the L.F., not forgetting your dear self.— Yfours truly, . „ ~ A DISTANT LHiY (Moa Creek). Dear Dot,—The weather down her© is very windy, and is very disagreeable. Tangles Wonnie, from Wedderburn, is stopping with my sister at present, but I think she is going home to-day. We have a good many flowers out at present, but the wind spoils them. I was out for a drive yesterday, and enjoyed myself very much. I was at church last night. I was at the sports here on New Year's Day. The day was very windy and showery. I was out bird-nesting the other day, but did not get many. Nearly all our tomato plants got frosted, and our apple tree has only eight apples on it. With kind regards to A Ferryman's Boy, Tangles Wonnie, Sea Breeze, and Dutch Girl.—Yours truly, A HEART OF GOLD (Middlemarch).

Dear Dot,—Christmas was very quiet, but .New Xear was very lively. Tarfgles Wonnie is stopping here just now, but is going home on Monday. I shall miss her when she goes, as she is such good company. She came down last Tuesday. "When at the New Year ball we met a D.L.F.—Ananias. We also saw Dairymaid, Foulatta,' and Dotterel. There were sports here on New Year's Day, but as it was showery that spoilt them. The influenza is very slowly dying out in the country. I did not have it, and didn't want it. If it were not that New Zealand has been steeped in a sorrow worse than the war, we could have hod the most joyous Christmas after this four years' war. My cousin has returned, and is coming to stop with us in about three weeks' time. A lady came to our place yesterday, and Tangles Wonnie and I took the gig and horse and went for a drive. Tangles Wonnie and I are going for a drive to-morrow —that is, weather permitting. We .got word the other day tha't my father's mother had died. I think my sister, Dutch Girl, is coming to see us next month. She was coming up last November, but did not come because of the influenza. We were going up the mountain yesterday, but towards the afternoon it got very dull, so rather than get wet we stayed at home. I have been reading some good books lately. We have a good many flowers out at present. I have a kodak now, and am going to take a photo of Tangles "Wonnie to-morrow if it is fine. On New dear's Eve someone took our gate off the hinges, but my father was on the lookout for them, and went and looked for the gate. It was not far away, so he put it on again. Love to Wonnie and Ananias. —Yours truly, N SEA BREEZE (Middlemarch). Dear Dot, —At present I am staying at one of my DL.F. friends, who resides in Middlemarch. While at the New Year ball Sea Breeze and I met a D.L.F., his name being Ananias. My mate and I had a lovely time .at the ball, but the sports were not very nice at all, and to make matters worse, tho day was anything but agreeable, as it was raining off and on all the afternoon. While down here I also met Dairj'maid, but did not speak much to her, as she had her ma'te with her. The "flu" is now almost a thing of the past, as it is gradually abating. I was very lucky, as I escaped it—in fact, all of our family did. I like Middlemarch very well, and I think I should like to live here. A Heart of Gold went birdnesting yesterday, but I do not know how many eggs he got. I think Sea Breeze's sister is coming up next month. There was a Home mail oame in this week, so I hope we got some letters from my brother. I am afraid many of my correspondents have been sadly neglected, but I will soon have to start and answer their letters. Best love to Sea Breeze, A True Patriot, and Ananias. —Yours truly, TANGLES WONNIE (Middlemarch).

Dear Dot, —Little Actress' has been away to Milton for a holiday, but she came home on New Year's Day. Since last writing I passed my examination, and this year, when we go back to school, I • shall be in the Sixth Standard, and shall be working for a proficiency. My brother and sister are away at grandma's for a holiday. The weather is very broken for this season of the year, and farm work is very far behind. My little brother is talking now, and he says some very tunny things. Love to Little Actress, Topaz, Sapphire, Dolly Dingle, and Polly Prmgle, and wishing you .and all the D.L.F. a happy New Year.—Yours truly, LITTLE ACTRESS'S MATE (Otautau). Dear Dot,—lt is raining again. We had a nice day for Christmas, but it has rained ever since. The flower gardens are very pretty at present, and we have had some lovely roses out. We have three pet lambs, and one is mine. I have two kittens which Topaz, gave me. We are milking five cows at present and feeding one calf. We have not been to school since Peace Day, and I start music again on Tuesday. We haven't been to music for a long time now, because our teacher has been ill with the "flu." I had a slight touch of it, but am quite well now. Love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, ROSY CHEEKS (Otautau). [Holidays are nearly over, and then comes a year's hard work.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I have again attempted to write. My intentions are good, but I always put it off, and then it ends up in not doing it. The influenza has very nearly died out, except that one or two have it. I think it has left a vacant ohair in many homes. On New Year's Eve it simply poured. I went to see Mterlo on New Year's Eve. We are now into another year, and I sincerely hope it is a brighter and better one than the previous one. I am head shepherd now, and I oan tell you also that I don't take too kindly to looking after the sheep these cold days. I very nearly had a poisoned

finger through them. My name also tells my other work, which I detest. I would rather look to the sheep all my life than tnilking cows, but I suppose it's all in the game nowadays. Kindest regards to Hydraulic, Merlo, and Forget-me-not, not forgetting yourself and all the other D.L.F. —Yours truly, COWBOY (Lumsden). [There are always a few disagreeable and unpleasant things we have to do in the course of .a day's work, Cowboy, but keep on smiling, and they will not seem so irksome—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Peace is once again with us after four long years of bloodshed. How lovely to think that war is over, .and that all our soldiers will soon be home to usl This influenza epidemic was nearly as bad as the war. I did not have it, but it was down in the township and round about us. My grandfather and auntie died of it, and only a, fortnight between the two. The weather is very disagreeable and wet. Last Mionday, the 30th, my mistress and the three children and I went for a drive to Titaroa. We landed at our destination at 1 o'clock, and stayed there till 4 o'clock. After that we made tracks for Pine Bush, and after going two miles we reached our other visiting place. Of course, just landing at milk-ing-time, we gave a hand to milk the cows. There were only 17 or 18 cows to milk by hand, as there were four milkers, and it did not take long to put them through. After we had finished that lot we had our tea, and had to be- like beggars and make straight for home. We reached home at 8 o'clock tired, although happy, after our long drive. Christmas' Day was spent very" quietly here. There ie a golden wedding anniversary at Fortroso to-day, but none of us went. With best love to Oaktree, Dixie Hart, Mechanic, Rifleman, Sadie, Mrs Tickle Toby, and Clementine, not forgetting your- ' self.—Yours truly, HOP-ALONG CASSIDY (Waimahaka). Dear Dot,—We all motored to Lawrence on Christmas Day, and went to the Blue Spur for lunch. Wo went a distance of 120 miles. I was sunburnt for nearly a week. We held our usual picnic on New Year's Day, and, although wet and stormy, we had a good time. There were a good many at it. Silver Bells went with us in the car. When we got there we met Patty, and we kept well together with two other girls who do not write to the page. Coming home one of our neighbour's got stuck upon the side of the road with his car, and we tied his car to ours with a rope. Going through a creek the rope gave way and left them sitting in the car in the middle of the water. If we had not been watching we would have gone flying on without them. I thought Silver Bells would take a fit with laughing. Love to Silver Bells, Everlasting Sweet Pea, Patty, ». Gipsy Bell, . not forgetting yourself.—Youra truly, A. S. L. (Waikaka Valley). [Yes, you may get another, dear, though it was very annoying to be treated in such a manner.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Like the postage stamps, "by gum, I'm stuck." Hitherio I have tried to make my letters interesting, and when living in Dunedin I always found something to write about, but since I have come to Middlemarch I haven't seen even a dog fight. Not that I'm running down Middlemarch, for it is a splendid place—to keep out of. I oan hardly sleep at night, because it i 3 so quiet—in fact, the silence is deafening. But it is said that familiarity breeds contempt, and as I am gong to be here for two years at least I shall probably reconcile myself to the inevitable, and speak in a whisper. And, oh, Dot I I nearly forgot to tell you. I have just discovered I am married, for my beloved wife, Sapphira, of Scriptural fame, is spending a holiday, and it was only her brightening presence that prevented my death of stagnation. " Praise be," however, for I have discovered! one redeeming feature in Middlemarch. I refer to the large number o,f L.F. in the district, and the cordial greeting I received from. them. It is a very pleasant sensation indeed when coming into a strange district to be hailed as a brother by so many charming members of the clan. On New Year's Night the Caledonian Society held their annnal ball, and, considering the size of the town, I was surprised at 'the large attendance. An explanation was soon forthcoming Dancing is practically the only chance of recreation the country people get ("unless cow-spanking can be so called), so they come for miles to tread the light fantastic. Well, Dot, I think I have already said too much in favour of Middlemarch, and as I do not wish to further endanger my from the local L.F., I shall close with regard to the Advenurous Trio, Dairymaid, Sea Breeze, and yourself.—Xours truly, ANANIAS (Middlemarch). Dear Dot,—This is my first letter to the page. I am 13 years of age, and am in Standard V. We are milking 21 cows, and I am learning to milk. I have a brother away to the war. He went with the twentyninth Reinforcements, and I wish he was home again. Love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, WALNUT (Awamoa). [I hope it will not be long now before your brother returns.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I am 12 years old, and in the Sixth Standard. I ha.ve one-sister and three brothers.- We are milking 38 cows, and we have 30 calves. I am sending for one of your badges. I have had a slight touch of the "flu," and hope you are quite safe. With lots of love to the D.L.F. and yourself.—iours truly, CRUEGO (Birchwood). [I have posted your badge, Cruego, and hope it reaches you safely.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It is> now so long since I have written that I almost feel ashamed to .allow my letter face the eager eyes that scan the- page. I am at present in Middlemarch spending the annual vacation, and, Dot, I can thoroughly recommend this town to any Ix.F. who wish to spend a vacation quietly after the hustle of the city. The Weather has not been very favourable for holidays. I think "Dunedin's usual" aptly describes it And as for noise? "Well, I can hardly sleep at night; it is so quiet. One good sign of which I took particular notice is the pleasing sight of so many L.F. badges. The day I arrived I was nearly mobbed, and before I could gather the outlying portions of my personnel I found that all my hands were being grasped in a friendly manner, and eager L.F. seeking my nom de plume. I was finally rescued by my husband, Ananias, and we were compelled to hail a taxi and proceed home as joyfully as possible. Arriving there, we were pleased to know that there was no old boots tied on the back, and no chalk inscriptions as " just been married " etc. But "it is a long lane that has no turn," for the only "turn" we could discern in the lane of pleasure was the gala on New Year's Day. Until then We had not even witnessed a oa'f fight, which fact plainly shows now rowdy the residents are not. However, -we were filially awakened to the fact that w© could

not be melancholy on January 1, as the Gala Committee requested our presence, which we gladly lent. In the evening we proceeded to the ball, but, as I was indisposed, I allowed my huflband the pleasure of sitting out some dances with several L.F., who, I must say, appeared to be glad of his company. As a finalo I may mention that there has been no excitement since.—Yours truly, , SAPPHIRA (Dunedm).

Dear Dot,—l hope you will have had a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I am very glad to eay the epidemic is stamped out in Auckland, and I hope it is the same in the south. There are many friends of my mother's who have died of this awful epidemic. My little sister is away for her holiday, so I miss her very much, although I have two brothers. I had a little cousin about a month ago, and am very anxious to see her. I have eix weeks' holiday yet. We have our examination next term, so T, must study hard. Love to all the L.F., also yourself.—Yours truly, TUT (Papatoetoe). [The cards were sent immediately on receipt of your last letter. —DOT.] Dear Dot, —I am seven years old, and in the Fifth Standard. I am very interested in the D.L.P. in the Witness, and would like very much to join your happy band. I am sending for one of your badges. We are' milking three cows, and have two calves. We call them Jenny and Ola. I have just recovered from influenza. How did you fare? I do hope you 'escaped it. With lots of lovo to the D.L.F., and yourself.—Yours truly, » TRENCHES (Birchwood). [I am glad to learn you are making a good recovery, Trenches.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Once again after an absence of nearly a year I take the opportunity of writing a few lines to the page. Since then great changes have overcome this part of the world. One good thing is that the war is over, and our boys are returning home. There are some who" had not the luck to return, and it is sad for those who have had relatives killed at the war not to see them return with their comrades as they left. The "flu," as it was called, is now a thing of the past. I myself was one of the lucky ones, and escaped. We have all the ridged turnips sown now, and am not sorry either. We finished shearing about three weeks ago,. and have all the wool away. The weather is our only annoyance at present. We haven't had two days alike. We motored through to the Invercargill races on Friday, and I am blessed if it didn't come on to rain, and it rained all' the time till we reached Gore, and then it eased off for the rest of the way. kindest regards to all my correspondents, not forgetting yourself.—lours truly, REVLIS (North Chatton). [Your drive would not be very enjoyable, Revlis. I have forwarded badge and autocards.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—How lovely it is to think that peace is once again, and that before very long we will have all our soldiers home again. One of my brothers has been returned for over six months, and another one is in France. Wasn't the influenza epidemic a dreadful thing. I had it for over a month. It has left many sad homes which once were happy. I was at a picnic on New Year's Day with A. S. L., and met Patty there. I enjoyed myself very much, although it was anything but a good day. I have not read many books, as I am not particularly fond of reading. Christmas was very quiet this year. I did not go away anywhere. There was a picnic at the Hokonuis, but I did not go to it. Love to A. .S. L., Patty, Golden Shadows, Gipsy Belle, and all the other D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, SILVER BELLS (Pukerau).

Deaf Dot, —Peace has come at last. When word came through we deserted the school and cleared home. We were in town in. about two hours., and at 1 o'clock the procession started. It was composed of two fire brigades, decorated vehicles, and many other things. That night we lit our bonfire, and it did' blaze. My father was out with the binder yesterday. I have four dozen birds' eggs, and have sold six dozen. I have had the "flu," and it is no fun lying in. the bed alone. We are having wet weather at present. I will not be .at the Timaru picnic, as it is too far to go. I am sending you a view of Palmerston North. Wishing you and all the L.P. a bright and prosperous New Year.—Yours truly, INDEPENDENT (Ashhurst). J [Many thanks for the post-card, Independent, and please convey my thanks to Sinbad also for his. I can quite realise how a boy would dislike staying in bed, but sometimes there is no help for it.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l have seven little ducks and 14 chickens. We are having very bad weather here just now. Our school does not open till the 28th of this month. We are milking nine cows just now, and are feeding nine calves night .and morning. Love to all the other D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.— Yours truly, MIDGET (Centre Bush). Dear Dot, —We are having very bad weather just now. It is just like mid-winter . instead of summer. I am going up to Flora's place next Monday for a holiday, so I hope I have a good time with her. I went to the Biverton regatta, and enjoyed myself very much indeed watching them diving and slipping off the greasy pole. I had three rides m the boats. It was the first time I had been in a boat, but I was not seasick. I w.ill be very glad when the school starts again. We go back to school on January 28. I will be in Standard V when I go back. I enjoyed my holiday when I was at Mosgiel. I went to Dunedin for a day. With kind regards to you and all the D.L.F. —Yours truly, BONNY (Colac Bay). Dear Dot,—l have been interested in the li.P. letters for a long time, so I thought ,1 would write, too. It is very windy here to-day I am 14 years of age, and I have A\ . - 8 ? 01, I en i°y«<i myself very much at Christmas and I hope you did the same. 1 am suffering with toohtache, and it is very painful. The dentist comes here only once a fortnight, so I will have to wait till he comes to get it out. Did vou have the influenza Dot? My mother had it It was DARK ROSALEEN (Otautau). ■ [No doubt the time the dentist arrives the tooth will have ceased aching, but do not forego having it attended to. DOT.] Dear Dot,—The holidays have passed very quietly for me. I had two days off at New Year, and none at all at Christmas. There were no sports or picnics anywhere about here on Boxing Day. On New Year's Day there were sports in Timaru, and Miss Lou and myself attended, and, despite the bad weather, had a good time. The clouds looked angry all morning, but just before wo went to the sports ground the sun came out and mado things look more cheerful. & We thought it was not Worth while carrying

our coats out with us, so we left them in town, and wore sorry later on. About 3 p.m. it began to thunder, and with the first few epits of rain we made for the grand stand, and had no sooner got seated than the rain oame down in torrents. Everybody did a quick disappearance from the ring, all but two people who were seated under a big umbrella. The rain did not continue long—about half an hour,—and then tha sun peeped out again, but it just stayed out long enough for the crowd to take heart again and creep out from their shelter, and for the final cycle race of three miles to start, when it began to thunder again, and this time hail accompanied it. And it did hail! All through the race it teemed, but the competitors kept going, and put up a very creditable performance. Just when the race finished it came down the heaviest. The hailstones were the size of marbles. It continued to come down until 4.30, and my mate was getting anxious less we would miss our train, aa it left at 4.45, and we had to go into town to get our coats. As soon as it slackened off we made a bolt, and went to town in a taxi, arriving at the station in good time for the train. The next day, of course, I went to our picnic. My brother and I left home at 7.30 a.m., and as the morning was fine the ride to. was rather pleasant. Two horse drags were engaged to convey us to Waitawa, and were supposed to leave the post office at 9 sharp, but it was 9.15 when we got everything ready and finally started. It was between half-past 10 and 11 that we arrived at our picnio ground on the bank of the Opini River. We had! a look round the place, and watched some young fellows having a great time in boats on the river. When we thought of boiling the billy for dinner we found, alas! that the member who was_ supposed to supply that most essential article had forgotten all about it, so we sent him a-begging for something, and one of the camps gave us a kerosene tin which they had been using for a kettle. Whether the tea was smoked or not, I do not know, as I did not have any, but I did not hear anyone complaining of it. Indeed, everyone seemed to enjoy it, and one boy returned for a third cup. After we had eaten our fill of sandwiches and cake we finished off with strawberries and cream, which one of our members had been kind enough to supply. Just fancy, Dot,strawberries and cream at a picnic! As there Was no place on the river bed_ to play games or run races, we asked permission of a far-. mer to use one of his paddocks, which he kindly gave us. About 2.30 we called a halt in the fun, and after a few minutes' rest began the races. The boys had supplied prizes for the girls' races, and the girls had done likewise for the boys. Snaky Joe and Penpushing Cowboy supplied most of the prizes, the latter presenting a championship prize, in the form of a gold sword brooch set with earls and one ruby, for_ the girl who won most points. The first item was a 50 yards' race for "married ladies"— that was, girls with their hair up,—and I came first in that, Greenshrub's "Mate bringing up a close second. The next item was girls with hair down. Then there was_ a sack race. The first heat was "married ladies," and Greenshrub's Mate was first and I second. The second heat was girls with hair down, and in the final, first, second, and. third of each heat competed, the result being that a visitor came .first, Greenshrub's Mate second, and I, after a most exciting spin, turning a complete somersault once and falling again, got third place. The next item was a three-legged race, all the girls competing, and Greenshrub's Mate and myself made an easy win. On our scores being counted it was found that Greenshrub's Mate won the championship by one point. Then tKex boys' ■ races were held—one 100 yards, a sack race in two heats, a three-legged race, and a 300 yards' race. The final race for the day was one of 150 yards for girls for one prize that had not been won by anyone, and I was the only one who did the distance. By that time it was time for tea, and when we got that over and our straps packed up, Penpushing Cowboy took several snaps of the group. Being in a hurry to return to town, Greenshrub's Mate and myself came in with Penpushing Cowboy in a • car, arriving about 6.80. The rest, of the party arrived after 7. Though the clouds looked threatening several times during the day the weather kept fine, and one and all spent a most enjoyable day. There were not so many members present this year as last, aB there were no' visiting members, but I can truly say that this picnic was the most enjoyable we have yet had. The only thing to be regretted was that one of our most energetic members, in the person of Sriakey Joe, was unable to attend owing to having to work all day. My brother and I spent the evening with Greenshrub's Mate, arriving home in the early hours of Friday morning, very tired and sleepy, but happy in the thought that everything had been a success. Dear Dot, I roust now conclude, or you will be using your blue pencil to the whole of this and consigning it to the waste paper basket. With very best wishes and kindest rog.ards to yoursejf, Dot, and all my comrades.—Yours truly, ALISON! (St. Andrews). [I am delighted l to know the picnic was such an enjoyable and successful one, Alison. —DOT.] Dear Dot, —I have left school since I last wrote. We have been having very cold weather here for summer. It has either been raining or blowing nearly every day. Christmas Day was spent very quietly in Timaru on account of the influenza. One of my brothers had if. We have finished the shearing. I have been going to the Technical School in Timaru since I left school, but it is closed novc for the holidays. The Tycho School is going to reopen in about a week, but it is going to be closed in the harvesttime for about a fortnight. We get our mail now about 8 o'clock. We used to get it about half-past 11. Love to Charity, ■ Evening Star, Chiddy, White Violet 111, and Mother's Youngest, not forgetting yourself.— Yours truly, BRITANNIA (Rosewill). Dear Dot, —We are having very bad weather up here just now, and it makes things miserable. A few of the farmers have started shearing round here. The influenza was a terrible thing. I had it, and I was not one bit sorry when I got better. Not many people round here missed it. Love to all the Little Folk, not forgetting yourself. —Yours truly, TWO-STEP (Hokonui). Dear Dot,—l managed to see Christmas and /\«w Year through all right. On Christmas Day 24 of us went up the Rock and Pillar Mountain for a picnic. We started at 10.30 a.m., and climbed on till we were sick of tramping on rabbits, lizards, and stones. Wo managed to got to a nice gully, and dined among the ferns. We finished dinner in about two hours, and then we started. out for another journey. Wo climbed on and on till we came to a high peak called the Sugar Loaf (don't think it's made of sugar, Dot, because it's not), where we eat till the boys smoked us out with their fires, so we started out for our dining gully. When we came to boil tho_ billy we discovered that the lid was missing, so we had

to drink oold water for tea. When we started for homo we found two of the party were missing. Six or seven of us went and searched for them. They happened to have gone to the top by themselves. When we were all round we started on our journey home. We arrived homo tired, but happy. On jNew Year's Day sports wore held here, and, of course, the weather spoilt our day. There were a good many races, etc. I didn't do so badly. I happened to win the young ladies' race and helped with the tug-of-war. The prize for the ladies' race was a manicure set, and the other a photo frame. The worst of all is that dairy-farmers' daughters can't find time to use things like manicure sets. In the evening I finished up by going to the dance, where I had much pleasure in making Ananias's acquaintance. He hasn't been up here very long, but has been rousing the Middlemarch D.L.F. already, so I think he will do the page a, little good. Kind regards to yourself and all the D..L.F.—Yours truly/ DAIRYMAID. Dear Dot, —I hope you enjoyed a merry Christmas and a bright New Year, and, although it rained a little on New Year's Day, we had a good time here. We all went to the picnic on New dear's Day, which is held here every year, and we had a good time, too. A number of races were run both for money and for toys, and my sister and I •were in two of the races. I have read in the Girl's Own Annual that girls should never run, but I don't believe it all the same, and, anyway, I like running myself, so it doesn't matter what a book says about it. I can't remember now why girls shouldn't run, as it's a long time since I read it, and as I don't remember what the piece was named, I guess it will be a long time before I see it again, unless I come across it unexpectedly. We have a lovely little horse running in the paddocks, which dad said my sister and I could ride, and f I think it won't be long before we are on its back. .Best love to all the L.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, A PRAIRIE GIRL (Tuturou).

[I fail to see why girls - should not exercise their muscles running or any other way. Por my part I think plenty of outdoor exercise is an advantage, and should be good for the general health.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I hope you enjoyed a merry Christmas. The weather was not very nice, but we had a lovely Christmas tree right up to the roof in our dining room, and wo never got so many nice things before. My two sisters and I got silver brooches and lovely beads, paints, and so many other things that I couldn't name them. We were to have a concert, but as we got too excited over our presents we sang only a few things Our visitors did not come that evening, as the wind was so bitter. We had a lovely tea, just like a wedding—cus'tards in wee glasses, jellies and cream, and all sorts of cakes and ©weets. We had a monster Christmas cake all iced and ornamented, and there was a ring, a button, and a threepence in it, and also in our Christmas pudding, too. I got the ring in the pudding. Mum got the threepence, and no one owns to getting the button. A visitor got the button in the cake, and the ring was found at the bottom of the cake. The threepence is not found yet, but the cake is not half finished yet. On New Year's Day we had a very nice picnic, eo we had a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. With love to all the L-.F., not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, A WILD RED ROSE (Tuturau). [You certainly had a delightful time, dear, and I am so glad to learn you were all so happy.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Did you have as nice a. Christmas as I did? We had a fine dinner and plum pudding, and a grand tea and a Christmas tree. It was good. My mother and brother dressed it, and we were not allowed in till it was finished, and it had ribbons and flowers and toys, and when the lights were on it was nice. I got a ■ fine airgun and some other toys, and my little brother got a fine humming top and lots' of other things. My sisters laid a ribbon trail from the tree away outside in the grass, and told my big brother his present was at the other end, so he had to go . and find it. We had great fun. The cakes and sweets are not all done yet. My wee sister leves music, and she got a tiny musical thing on a handle, .and when she shakes it she hears music. With best wishes to yourself.— Yours truly, MASTERMAN READY (Tuturau). Dear Dot,—My little brother wants to write to you. He is busy trying to find out a name .for himself. He is making me laugh .all the time. I got a threepenny dip the other night, and I got an eggcup and a fan in it. He said just now to ask you what you got- in your stocking, and my father said, " I suppose she got her leg in it." Kind regards to yourself and all the D.L.P.—Yours truly, A FAIRY QUEEN (Invercargill). [I am afraid Santa Claus might raise objections to filling my stocking, dear.— DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your happy band? I am five years old, and am in Primer 11. My sister writes to the page, and so I thought I would write. My rribther is up town just now. To-day my friend got some soap, and put it in a lollie-tin, and gave one to my sister, and she started to chew it up. With love to all the D.L.F. and yourself.—Yours truly, HAPPY IKE (Invercargill). [I can imagine how wrathful your sister wculd be, Ike.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —As this will be my last year for writing, I am going to make'up for lost, time. I am a bit late, but all the same' I will wish all the L.F. and yourself a happy New Year. The holidays are over once again, so I have to settle down to hard work once more. I think holidays spoil one for one does not feel up to work after them. Can anyone tell me what has become of Little Boy, also Lord Nelson? On New dear's i>ay some friends of mine came out to spend the day. Mtim had gone off to Napier, so we had to cook the dinner. The pudding boiled dry four times, but, all the' same, it was very good; so was everything else. My friends missed the train that night, so had to spend the night here. "We haven't had any decent weather this summer yet, and as far as I can see I don't think wo are going to either. Did yo\i have the "flu," Dot? Sexton Blake and I had it slightly, and were away from work a fortnight. I have just started reading " Love in the' Wilderness,' by Gertrude Page. Love to iall my correspondents, not forgetting yourself.—Yours truly, BONNIE MARY 0' ARGYLE (Paki Paki). Dear Dot.—How did you enjoy your Christmas and New Year holidays? "We spent ours very quietly at home. On Boxing Day dad and I went up in the train to Tuatapere. "Wo had a look at the "Waiau River. It. runs very fast, Dot. There is a nice strong bridge over the river, and the scenery up there is so pretty that we felt sorry to go back so soon. Tho train does not stop

very long—only two hours. Dad and I ir et some friends while at Tuatapere, and we a good time. Are there any L.P. in Tuatapere, Dot? I was very ill with the "fhl." I couldn't raise my head off the pillow for days; nor could I eat, and it has left me very weak and tired. ¥ou will have to excuse my bad writing, as I am a little shaky. School will be starting again soon, and I think I have had a long holiday. Love to you, Dot.—Yours truly, LORD GLBNOONNEE (Colac).

[I am so sorry you have been ill, dear. Xou will need to eat plenty now so. as to get strong again. There are quite a number of L.P. at Tuatapere.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was very bad with the influenza for over throe weeks. After I was in bed for over a week I got up, and thought I was well. The doctor came in to see me, and he ordered me back to bed for eight days. Soldier's Bell and I were down with the influenza tugether. It is a dreadful thing to have. It leaves people very weak afterwards. There has been a great deal of sorrow in this distriot. I had an auntie who died, a cousin, and then my eldest sister. My sister took very ill suddenly one night, and we did not know what was the matter with her. So the next morning father and mother took her to the doctor, who ordered her to Nurse Liddle's hospital. She was over a. vveek there. Then they shifted her into the hall, which was made into a hospital. She was at death's door for over a week, and at last passed away. We spent a very sad Christmas and New Year. I will bring this letter to a close with these few lines: No one knows how we miss her— A lily sweet and fair. She's gont to a better home, And we hope to meet her there. Love to all the D.L.F., not forgetting yourself.—xours truly, BELGIUM GIRL (Orawia). [I am very sorry to learn of your sister's death, dear, and please accept my sincere sympathy.—DOT.] AUTOS. Hop-along Cassidy (Alma Hand's, Waimahaka) wishes to correspond with Grant, Long Island, and Broadway Bill. Ananias (A. J. Pacey, Dunedin) wishes to notify his oerrospondents that he has changed his address to care of Post Office, Middlemarch. Sea Breeze (Miss H. Stewart, Railway, Middlemarch, Central Otago) wishes to exchange autos and correspond with A True Patriot, P.C. 4&, and Postman Bill. Bonnie Mary o' Argyle (Mary Taylor, Paki Paki, H. 8.) wishes to exchange autos and correspond with Grant or any D.L.F. 18 years or over. Princess Rose (Eileen Knowlcr, Te Wae Wae) wishes to correspond with The Girl of the Limberlost, The- Last Rose of Summer, and A Hieland Belle.' Princess Beatrice (Beatrice Watson, Coal Creek) wishes to correspond With any L.P. 14 or 15 years willing. Wink (Ernest Thomas, Otara) wishes to correspond with 1 Topsy. Lady Cedrice (lolen Dryden, The Curve, Colac Bay) wishes to correspond with Sunny Heart, Christmas Lily, and Long Island.

OTICE: TO CORRESPONDENT. A Distant Lilt.—The address is Hilda BirchalL. Moa Creek.