HOW PRIDE HAD A FALL.

Otago Witness, Issue 3774, 13 July 1926, Page 78

HOW PRIDE HAD A FALL.

By D. Watson. (Illustrated by Double.) ( Copyright.—For tiie Witness.) One, two, three, four, so the old grandfather clock chimed on, till the last stroke of midnight rang out. Then with a soft click the nursery cupboard-door burst open and out trooped the toys.

“Now for the ball," they cried. “Hooray!" exclaimed the peasant boy as he waved his blue cap in the air. “What a rough boy that is, and so common," said the wax doll with the china face to the French doll. “Do you think so,’’ replied the french doll, who was of a kind and gentle nature. She did not have the same opinion of the peasant f boy herself, but thought the wax doll very conceited. “Poof 1" said the wax doll, as a haughty smile spread over her face, “he is only a rough peasant boy; see he is coming to dance with me; I’ll tease him like anything," and she waved her hand airily to the French doll as she danced off with the peasant boy. The wax doll, true to her word, gave the peasant boy a very bad time, and, although she was really a good dancer, to-night she bumped against the peasant boy, stood on his toes, and so quite spoilt their dance. The peasant boy was too polite to say anything, but after the dance was over, he had to sit down for quite a while as he was so exhausted. Now the toys had asked the fairies to come to their ball, and suddenly, with tfe Fairie queen at their head, in they flew. Then what a scene of gaiety—the moonlight streamed in through the open wondow, lighting up the fairies’ shimmering dresses, while the toys (all of them* dressed in their best) looked very gay indeed. Just before the ball commenced some of the fairies, wishing to see that all the toys were quite happy, had come to the nursery secretly, and, having seen the wax doll’s rude behaviour to the peasant boy, had decided to punish her. After a conclave three of the fairies flew out of the window. * t # In a dim mysterious cavern sat an old witch brooding over a bubbling pot on a fire. Suddenly in flew the three fairies.

“Who comes hither so swiftly to my cavern," cried the witch, in a deep voice. “Wc are three fairies," said one whose name waa Bilver-Wingß. “And what would you have of me?" asked the witch. "A charm," said Silver-Winge, “to cure a wax doll’s pride."

“Ha, ha!” cackled the old witch, and going to the back of the cavern, she thrust her hand into a deep hole. Returning with a small bag, she put it into Silver-Wing’a hand. “But what are we to do with this?" asked Silver-Wings. “The directions inside will tell you," said the witch, so • “ flew the fairies. « * * In the meantime, the wax doll had contrived to sit next the peasant boy at supper, and had jogged his elbow 60 that he spilt his cream nectar all down the front of his new blue suit. He had been called clumsy, and laughed at so much that he really felt very miserable. After supper was over all the toys had to come up and bow before the queen, who was seated upon a dazzling throne, above which was spread a beautiful blue canopy. First the fairies made graceful curtseys, and then came the turn of the toys. One after the other they came up and bowed or curtsied; but not one of them noticed a small fairy poise herself right on the edge of the canopy. Golliwog made such a beautiful bow that he was loudly applauded. Then it was the wax doll’s turn. She stepped haughtily to the throne, and was just in the middle of a dainty curtsey, when plop I down fell a bagful of soot all over her hair and frock. “Oh!" she cried, and burst into tears. The toys burst out laughing, for the tears left little channels on her black face, which made her look very comical indeed. None of the toys were sorry, for they all felt the same of her as the French doll did. The queen held up her hand and called sternly: “Who lias done this come hi.ther, please." Then Silver-Wings, the fairy who had stood on the edge of the canopy, flew down.” “It was I, your Majesty." “You, Silver-Wings, but why?" Then the little fairy explained how spitefully the wax doll had treated the peasant boy. The queen nodded. “Ah," sne said to the wax doll, who was bathing herself in some dew which a kindly fairy had brought, “you received iusfc what you deserved." But suddenly footsteps were heard in the hall. Like a flash out of the window flew the queen and her fairies: the throne vanished; and the toys rushed for the cupboard. The wax doll ran with them, and the door waa quickly shut. “Well," said Nora, the maid, as she put her head round the door and gazed at the empty room, “I’m sure I heard rats, and dear me! I left the window open before I went to bed too.'* After Nora’s footsteps had died away there was silence for some time. Then the wax doll, whose hair and drees were quite free from soot by now, stepped up to the peasant boy and said:

“Please forgive me. I have been taught a lesson, and I will never be so rude and conceited again." “Why, of course I forgive vou,” and gallantly stepping forward he bent and kissed her hand. At the next ball, which was given by the fairies, no one was at all surprised to see the wax doll dancing with the peasant boy nearly all the time, and all the toys were glad that she lost her haughty ways. LETTERS FROM THE LITTLE FOLK. liotto.~We writ* lor the benefit •! other*, mI lor oureelvcs. Dear Dot, —I liave been inaide all day because it is wet outside. I have been playing with my goe gee. It is only a wooden one, but I make out it is real. I had our form out and turned it upside down and made it into a boat, I have a little mate who often stays here, and we have great fun together. Some of our cats died, eo we have only five left. We have a grey kitten, and his name is Pete. He is the cheekiest kitten alive. He takes a ball of wool in his mouth and tangles it round the chairs and table legs. He makes each a noise scamporing around. Girleen is teaching me dancing. I can do the sword dance. I am starting to learn the Irish jig. Girleen teaches my little mate, and she is going to teach another girl, too. I have a tennis racquet and ball, and I try to play tennis. Mummy and Girleen are taking me to a fancy dress ball on Friday night. I am having my kilts on. Girleen has a costume, but she doesn’t know whether she will wear it or not. Love to all the Little Folk and you, dear Dot.—Yours truly, WIN OF THE MOUNTAINS (Pukerau) [You will soon be a good dancer, Win, but everything needs practice.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—The long talked of fancy-dress ball is to be held on Friday night, I hope the weather takes up a bit. as it is not very nice out to-night. I haven’t decided what I will wear yet. I was at a wedding on Wednesday and quite enjoyed myself. The bride wore a French model frock of white georgette heavily beaded. The bridesmaid also wora a French model frock of green georgette, trimmed with gold, with a while georgette hat. Football reign# supreme. So fe% thi home team has an

unbeaten record. The biggest match of the season is to be played on Wednesday at Wyndham. They are only 2 points behind Pukerau, so if they win they will be equal. The banner lies between them, but I nope Pukerau wins, of course. We have electric light on out here at last. It is a great boon. We wouldn’t care to be without it now. Win thinks it is great, and she is always going into the rooms just for an excuse to turn the light on. I have been doing a good deal of reading lately, and have read some vary interesting books, including “Chappy That’s All.” Have you read it? The one I -Am reading at present is “Without a Home.” It is a depressing 6ort of book, and rather dry for ray liking. 1 like something humorous, like “Paddy the Next Best Thing.” The pictures continue to come once a fortnight. The last picture they showed was “Whose Baby Are You?" with Baby Peggy as principal. It was lovely. Peggy is such a quaint, natural wee thing. Mum, Win, and I were at Grandma’s Girl’s place one Sunday recently, and spent quite a nice time. Win had great fun with Grandad’s Ruby and Colin’s Nurse, and would talk about nothing else for days. Love to all and you, dear Dot—Yours truly, GIRLEEN (Pukerau). [No, I have not read the book, Girleen. Baby Peggy is spoiled, I am afraid.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I was at hockey to-day. We went to Wyndham to play the High there, and won 3 to nil. We had great fun going there. There has been trouble procuring conveyances this year. We have had to travel in private cars, but to-day we hired a bus (really a motor van), but it is such a chuggy old thing we thought we mightn’t arrive there; but we did. Coming home we were in high spirits, and sang all the way, everything we could think of. from “Three Blind Mice” to “Show Me the Way to Go Home,” and had part songs and rounds. We didn’t drown the noise the engine made. Our B team lost to-day, so their luck waa out. The three football teams won by default, as not one of the visiting ones turned up. Two of my little sisters and two little brothers have whooping cough. Wee baby is not two yet, and it is so hard for her. I have started dressmaking. I am taking a quarter at Gore. I like it. I am nearly finished my first dress. I have just had two lessons so far, though. I am hoping to go to a lodge ball on Fridav night. I waa at the rifle club ball last Friday* and it was very good. W went to hear the Hawaiians last Monday night. They were nice, though not eo good a company as came round with the “Chautauqua” three years ago. Love to all and yourself—Yours truly, YOU KNOW (Mataura). [You must have been a jolly party, You Know. I don’t suppose the creaking bus made much difference to you.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Our teacher is going away tomorrow, and I am very sorry. My mother went to town yesterday, but I think she will come home to-day. We have two little pups, one black and white, and the other brown. My brother has been setting traps, but lie has not caught any rabbits. Rabbits are very scarce about here now. Most of the people have had colds lately. My little sister is wanting to write to you, too. Love to yourself and all the Little Folk.—Your? truly, M. C. M. (Waipon). [Are the pups very playful, M. C. M.? People, need not catch colds in winter if they are caTeful. —DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I am twelve years old and in Standard VI at school. I like reading the letters in the Witness very much, so I thought that I should like to write also. Do you like reading ? I am- reading a book just now called "The Little Larrakin.” Our school teacher is leaving at the end of this month to teach at the High School, so we shal be having a new teacher. I have joined the Girl Guides, and am in the Huia Fatrol. I live in Waimate, a' small township about thirty miles from Timaru. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, WALNUTTY (Waimate). [Welcome,* Walnutty. Your name was taken. I like reading.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Madame Pavlova was here on Monday night, and when, about a-quarter to five, I passed the Theatre Royal, there was quite a queue formed. The entertainment did not begin till 8 p.m., so the people had a long wait. Last Friday afternoon I went with the school to see the picture “Glorious l New Zealand. I think New Zealand is a place of beauty that no other country can rival. The lecturer, Tano Faraa, made it doubly interesting by his vivid descriptions of all the notable parts. My sister has just finished knitting herself a drop-stitch dress, and it looks very nice Sne has started a dress in the drop-stitch for me. I should like to have seen Captain Jackson Barry’s Daughter’s wedding. The bride must have looked very pretty. I wish to convey through the page my best wishes for their future happiness. Ben Venue Cliffs is about five minutes’ walk from Caroline Bay, and adjoining we have Dashing Rocks. I have been once to Dashing Rocks. That day the spray was dashing very high, and in the sunlight it glistened like a rainbow. Some people were fishing round there, but I do not know whether they caught anything. I am saving up cigarette cards and have the set of Children of All Nations. Boy Scouts, and Village Models. I am saving Pirated and Highwaymen. Love to all the Little Folk.—Yours truly, HARVEST MOON (Timaru). [Madame Pavlova was the most exquisite thing I have Been, Harvest Moon. What do the people fish for?—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I am in bed with the mumps. I go to High Street School, my two brothers and myself. I have a sister two years of age. I caimot write in ink, as I am in bed. We had our examination, and I came top. Love to all own dear self.— Yours truly, TUI BIRD (Dunedin) [You must have worked well at school, Tui Bird.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—There is a very good picture being screened at Alexandra next Saturday, the name of it being “Jan of the Snows.# byuJamcs Oliver Curwcod. I have just received letters frpm A Girl Guide, Girleen. and two or three others, and they were all very interesting ones. I suppose the Exhibition Buildings are a complete ruin now. The flower and vegetable gardens look quite barren up Central, as there are no flowers, and the trees have lost their-leav«> I have just finished reading a book called “Wildfire,” written by that very good author, Zane Grey, and it was one of the most interesting books that I have ever read. Have you read it ? There are quite a few new member# joining. My suiters and brothers are having a game of 500 to pass away an hour or two, ae the nights are so quiet. I saw two or three letters from overseas Little Folk, and I enjoy reading them best of all, because they write different letters from our own. Love to all and four own dear self.—Yours truly, TWO LITTLE LOVE BIRDS (Alexandra). [No, I have not reed the book, Two Little Love Birds. The overseas Little Folk like te read your letters.—DOT.]

Deer Dot, —Please may I join your happy band of Little Folk? I am six year# old. I have a little sister and brother. My brother is staying up at Christchurch with grandma. He goes to school there. He is eight years old. I do miss him. Mum teaches me to write and read at home. She is holding my hand while I am writing this. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, LILY LADY OF THE VALLEY (Otago). [Welcome, Lily Lady of the Valley. Your name was taken. Write in ink and write your Auto, out on a separate sheet.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —The liockeyites are holding their dance to-morrow night, and everyone seems to be going to it. A euchre party was held at the school here on Monday night, but none of U 3 were there. They also had a concert and dance in aid of the school library. I was uot there, but I heard it was a failure. My mu&ic teacher held hia annual conceit last Tuesday night, and it turned out a big success. His 6ister had left Gore and taken on nursing in Timaru Hospital. We miss her very much. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, MUSIC GIRL (Balfour). [What music liave you learnt lately, Music Girl? What were the items of the concert? —DOT.] Dear Dot,—Please may I write to you sometimes? I am seven years old. Mummy is away to town. I am in Standard I. My little sister is four years old.—Yours truly, LILIAS*, (Waipori). [Welcome, Lilia 3. We shall be pleasod to hear from you as often as you like.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your band? I am six years old, and I am in Class IV at school. My mother is one of your writers, and sometimes writes for Old Writers’ Week. Love to you and the Little Folk.—Yours truly, HAPPY JOHN (Oamaru). [Yes, you may join, Happy John. What was mother’s nom de plume?—DOT.] Dear Dot, —Ann Pan is collecting stamps, and asked me to bring her some, ami, as 1 had a large number of postcards, I have taken the stamps from them, and now I have ICO to send to her. There is a dance on Friday night, but I don’t think that I shall be going, as I don’t want to. Our bunny escaped but of his run, and has not come back, so I suppose we will never see him again. I miss him dreadfully. I had a letter from Peggy O’Neill the other day. She is the only one of the correspondents I asked to write who has written yet, and I have had two from her. She seems to be a very nice girl, or, rather, young lady. Love to yourself and all the other Little Folk.—Yours truly, NINKEYPOO (Dunedin). [I am sorry bunny chose to wander, Ninkey poo.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I have a Victoria League correspondent in South Africa. As we are having a fortnight’s holiday, Beautiful Beulan and I are going to Gore. When we go back on July 12, we shall liave a new teacher, as our other one went to Tapanui. When our other teacher left us she received a lovely suitcase and a cut-glass scent bottle. I hope the next teacher will be nice. We ride to school on the pony as it is so wet. There are nut many children going to school. There are only thirteen now, as three have gone to another school.—Yours truly, VIRGINIA (Otago). [Does your correspondent write interesting letters, Virginia? I am sure the teacher will be nice.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I am nine years old, but I am only in Class 111. My two brothers and I have five miles to go to school. My daddy drives us part of the way, and we walk the rest. My brothers are eight yeSfs and six and a-half years old. and then I have a brother five and a little sister four years old We have a tabby cat and two littie sheep pups. We are going to give one away, and will you please give us a name for the other one. We have two pulletß laying, but we don’t have any duck eggs. My mummy is helping me to write this letter to you. I don’t write very nicely mvself, but I will try and do better for vou if you allow me to be one of your Little Folk. Love to yourself.—Yours tndy, DEAR GRANNY’S GIRL (Bsnnockbun^. [Welcome, Dear Granny’s Girl. Call the puppy Hero.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l felt very pleased to see my first letter in print. As yet Dorothy Dimples is the only Little Folk I know, but I hope ere long to make many page friends. I usually walk down the car-line, as I like watching the different stages of the trees as tiiey put on first of all their green spring dresses. We have a little dog, a fawn Japanese pug. A friend of mother’s told her we ought to put him (the puppy, of course) in the Dog Show, as he would win first prise, but mother said he’d fret too much, eo we didn’t put him in. We bad three puppies, eo we called them Tom, Dick, and Harry. Tom’s name was soon changed to Podgy, as he was so fat and podgy he could hardly walk. Sad to say, poor Podgy died of distemper when only about two years old. Dick we gave away to my aunt. He was run over by a motor car not long ago, and Harry we still have, He is now six years old, and a lady not far from our place has one twelve years old. Is not that old for such a small type of dog? We have shifted to a new house. We do not have such a lovely view now, as we are part of the view we used to have. I have written the new address at the bottom of my letter. I am so keen on the Little Folk now I think I will buy a badge. The badges are so neat, aren’t they? Love to the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly, * TOMBOY MOLLIE (Dunedin). • [Yes. that is old for such a wee dog, Tomboy Mollie. The badges are very neat.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —We have five little puppies, two block ones and three black and white ones. On Friday morning when we were on our way to school we were delayed half an hour at a gate by our neighbour’s bull. I went to a bazaar at Five Rivers on Friday, June 18. I bought a hair-clasp, comb, spider, egg-cup, and a doll. The mill baa gone away from here. We have our electric range now but the power is not here yet. We hope to have it soon. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, MOTHER'S ANGEL (Eyre Creek). TThe bull should not have been able to delay you, Mother’s Angel. Are you keeping all the puppies ?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l see a little girl friend of mire is writing, too. I was at a dance last week, and enjoyed myself immensely. It was in aid of the Defence Rifle Club. My second eldest brother has started playing football. Do you like football. I don’t. I think it is a very foolish game. I do like hockey and tennis. I think they are very exciting games* I am reading a book called “The Ducliees.” Have you read it? Best love to you and all the Folk.—Yours truly, MY PAL (Gimmerburn). [Do not change your name, My Pal. I like I have not reed the book.— DOT.] ~

Dear Dot,—Wasn't the Exhibition glori.ous? I had a great time during that six months, and I’m sure every one else had the same. It seems rather a shame to pull down all those lovely buildings, but I eup{>ose they were not built to last any great ength of time. Logan Fark should make a splendid sports ground when they get it all filled in properly. There will be plenty of room in it, any way. There is to be a hardup ball here first Friday night, and it promises to bo a great success. It has been well advertised at any rate, and they say it ‘‘pays to advertise." It really should be a good dance, as it is the first ball we have had this season, and the winter is fairly far advanced now. Mescal and her sister were up to see me one day a short time ago. Mescal and I went to school together. We were great chums, and I was pleased to see her again for almost the first time since our school days. It will soon be Capping Carnival time again, I’m quite looking forward to it. It is great fun watching the procession. The students are so amusing in their freakish costumes. I suppose it is bound to be raining that day, although Dunedin is usually lucky on Capping Day as far as the weather is concerned. Did you go to Anna Pavlova’s first concert? I had promised myself the pleasure of seeing her beautiful dancing, but I’m afraid I’m hardly prepared to pay a guinea for the privilege, although T suppose it is well worth it. Best wishes to yourself and all the Little Folk. —Yours truly, MAID OF ATHENS (Momona). [No, I did not see the first concert, but Anna was wonderful in the second, Maid of Athens.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Thank you for the auto, cards. Every time I want to put an auto, in your Auto, column, do I have to fill in one of them? Please tell me. I have a good few correspondents now, and they all seem to write nice letters. I had a letter from Lake Rotorua the other day, and I was pleased to received it. I was at A Courteous Coon's birthday party the other night, an<l 1 had a good time We played games most of the evening, and some games we were playing were rather rough on the furniture. Her cake had two tiers and had 21 candles. Our cows are not giving very much milk at present. We are feeding them on straw and turnips night and morning. Our hens are laying well, and so are the pullets. Since last writing to you the chaffcutter and mill have been up here. I was at A Little Nurse Girl’s place when it was there, helping her mother or rather trying to. Kind regards to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, BOB’S SWEETHEART 'Milton). [Do not change your name, Bob’s Sweetheart. You send an Auto, card in the letter., you write to your correspondent to intro* duce yourself to her.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —My mate and I are writing our letters in school. We have a parrot at home, but he cannot talk yet. Do you know of a good method of teaching one to talk? We are having a sale of work here on the 2nd, and I hope it will be a success. We are thinking about starting a hockey team. Do you play? It is a rough game. We have just had a fortnight’s holiday, and I do net like going back to school very much. Would you please give me a name for the doll? Best love to the Little Folk and yourself. Yours truly, DOLLY DINKS (Otago Central). the doll, Lucille. Repeat a few words 1o the parrot, and soon he will imitate you.— DOT.] Dear Dot,—My chum and I are writing our letters in school. We are thinking of starting hockey here, but J think I would rather have tennis. Soot is growing a big cat now. I have a celluloid doll at home. Could you give me a name for it, please? —Yours truly, STAR OF THE EAST (Otago Central). [Call the doll Arabelle, Star of the East. —DOT.] Dear Dot, —We have just started school again after three weeks’ holiday. I am busy making a few little lollie baskets for the Paddy’s market this is to be held soon. I am reading a book called ‘‘Red Gold, and it is very interesting. We have four hens laying now, and it is quite a treat to have our own eggs again. We have ten cows milking. We milk them once a day now. I do not know many Little Folk, but Monkey Eyes lives not far from us, and I often see her as I am passing. I have a little kitten now, and would like if you could give me a name for it. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, RIBBONWOOD (Tahakopa). [Call the kitten Copper. Ribbonwood, Are they paper baskets?—DOT.] Dear Dot, —There seem to be a good many Little Folk around the Waimate district now. I think I know some of them. On June 16 the Timaru Salvation Army Silver Band and Songsters came to Waimate and gave a very good concert. I think all who went to it enjoyed themselves. One of the funniest items was five men singing “Old Mother Hubbard." First one and then another would say ‘Bow-wow-wow” while the others •were singing about the cupboard being bare. It is cold going to school in the mornings. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, PURPLE PANSY (South Canterbury). [I know the “Mother Hubbard” round, Purple Pansy, and it is funny to sing as well as to listen to.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I have visited the Waimate Annual Winter Show, and I think it was /ery nice. There were poultry, farm and garden produce, honey and preserves, children’s cookery, fruit, pigeons, canaries, grain, fancy work, and children’s pets. Jack Frost has been very busy lately, and has nipped all our flowers. There are three girls in our class who are always talking, and the teacher calls them “the Exhibition," bo we don’t have a long way to go and see it. Now that we have the electric lights for the streets, the gas lamps are not used, so the borough council is going to shift some of the old iron lamp posts into the paiks and reserves to make swings for the children. Don't you think that is a good way to make use of them? Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, MISCHIEF MAY (South Canterbury). [Jack Frost nips not only flowers, but Angers and toes, Mischief May. Yes, it is a good way to use the posts.—DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l have not been to school fox a week, as I have had the ’flu. I have been in bed. When I was in bed I longed to hear music, so my father played the violin, which I enjoyed very much. Our dog died yesterday morning, so that only leave us with two sheep dogs. I am stflf learning music, and mv piece is called "The Pixies Goodnight Song." It is rather a pretty piece. We still have our wee mischievous cat. He does love to play under the carpets. While I was lying in bed I made two dresses, a coat, and a hat for my dolly. I was in Timaru one day last week and bought a game called “The Down Mail," ana my father and I have some great games. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, POPPY DAY (Tycho). [There are other “Pixie" piece*, Poppy Day, and they are all pretty to play, You

did not waste your time while in bed.— DOT.] Dear Dot,—We have a new school teacher, and we like him vqry much. The young girls from this district played their first hockey match about a week ago, and won by seven to nil. I have just finished reading a book called “lieast Said, Sooneet Mended,” and I liked it very much. There are euchre parties held here on Tuesday nights, but I do not go. Beat love to all. —Yours truly, PANSY FAN (Longbush). [lt would be a good plan to use the name of the book as a motto, Pansy Pan. Each person should have a motto. —DOT.] Dear Dot,—l did not go away for the term holidays, but stayed at home and went occasionally to the library. I am very interested in wireless. I am now learning the Morse and wireless symbols. It io very plesant to listen to concerts by the fire and \iot have to go away to town. Most days now are very cold, but we will soon have spring. I am trying to write a book entitled “The Arrow from the West.”—Yours truly, MECCANOIST (Dunedin). [I should like to see youi book, Meccanoist. Have you written anything before?— DOT.] Dear Dot,—l ara 13 years old and I go to tne Waihao Downs School We are milking six cows, and we receive quite a drop of milk. Basket ball is in full swing here, and we like it very much. The boys are going to play a football match against the Redchff School. My father killed a bullock, and it is quite a big one. Dad has a mangold that weighs 461 b. He also has some very big potatoes. Our school won a number of prizes for potatoes. We had our school picnic in March., and I won two big dolls. I also won a ball, a windmill, and a trumpt. I am learning music, and I am progressing all right. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, SCHOOL GIRL’S MATE (Waihao Downs). [Do not change your name. School C/N’s Mate. Tell me the result of the match. — DOT.] Dear Dot,—The spring bulbs are well up out of the ground. That sounds as though we are going to have an early spring, don’t you think? The grasß is not making much headway yet. Dad has plenty of winter feed for the cattle. We all have very bad colds at home. Mother gives us black currant jam drink. It is very good for cold*. —Yours truly, CCEUE-DE-LEON (Ariki). [Black currant drink is good for the palate as well as the cold, Coeur-de-Leon. Do you not think so?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—My sister Eva has been asking me to write to you for weeks now. • I didn’t go to school to-day, as the creek was too high for my liking this morning, so I thought I would stay at home, and make sure in case I could not go back over the creek to-night. Our teacher, who started our writing to you has left our school, and I miaa him very much. He has net gone far. We are sure to see him sometimes. How are you keeping? Do you feel the cold weather down there? —Yours truly, BEAUCLERC (Ariki). [I am very well, thank you, Bcauclerc. To-day (Monday) has been one of the coldest days we have had.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Our teacher does not take the Witness, but our last teacher is going to send our letters up to us, which I think is very kind of him, don’t you? We hava been walking to school since the winter holidays, because of the big slip on the road, but now, however, the men are working on it and I hope we wil be able to ride soon. We had a little party last Saturday night, which was very enjoyable. It was the opening at the Young Helpers’ League. I think all the school children enjoyed themselves very much.—Yours truly, FATHER’S CURLY LOCKS (Ariki). [lt is very kind of the teacher. Father e Curly Locks. Young Helpers’ picnics are usually enjoyed.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —The football season is on now, and as the teams up our way are all as good as their opponents the cup is hotly contested for. We have just arrived at the end of our holidays. When we go back to school to-morrow we shall have a new master. During the holidays wo went ferreting a few limes and caught seventeen rabbits. We are milking two cows. As we feed them night and morning they give a good deal of milk. Love to all.—Yours truly, COWPUNCHER II (Queenstown). [There must be great excitement at the matches, Cowpuncher.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Peter Pan Fage is a page 'in the Wellington Dairy Exporter. It comes from Wendy. My sister came home to-day for a holiday. The bulbs are all through the ground, and the violets are nearly in flower. I have two sisters and four brothers, so when we are all at home there is a wee bit of noise. My sister has just had the zonophone going, but it stopped short like the clock. The spring broke. Love to all and youi own dear self.—Yours truly, GRANDMA'S ANN (Otago). [Have you read “Peter and Wendy," Grandma’s Ann? It is a delightful book.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l have not written since the death of my girl pal some tinA ago. I have always had good intentions, so please forgive me. I have always read the letters with interest. Love" to you and all.—Yours truly, NOBODY'S GIRL (Milton). [Write out your auto on a separate piece of paper, Nobody’s Girl.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —The picture here is Charlie Chaplin in “The Gold Rush." It is supposed to be a very good picture, and I hope it is. My brother saw it when he was in Dunedin, and he says he will go to it again, it is so good. There is football here on Saturday, and I hope our boys win. I like football very much, and I would not like to miss a match. Did you go to see Anna Pavlova dancing? I have read and heard so much about her that I would very much like to see her. She must be a wonderful dancer. I have just finished writing to the famous actress Betty Compson. I write to quite a number of actors and actresses in America. I have been reading quite a few books lately, and I have just finished reading “The Covered Wagon. It is a lovely book by Emerson Hough. I saw the picture of it quite a while ago, which made the book more interesting for me. Captain Jackson Barry’s Daughter s wedding must have been a very pretty one by the description of it in the Witness. She is a correspondent of mine, and a very good one I have not taken any photos lately, as th# weather has not been suitable. The last ones I took turned out not so bad considering I took most of them on a dull day. Ws very often have euchre tournaments up here, and I nearly always play. I think euchre is a very interesting game. Best love to yourself and all.—Yaurs truly, SCOTCH GIRL (Central Otago). TYes, I saw Pavlova, Scotch Girl. Why do you writs to the actresses ?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Since I last wrote we have left our old home to ehift to Moegiel, where I attend the High School. I started some time

after it opened, and it was a good while before I caught up on the others. Dari

presented both Grant and me with a new bike each when we came here, as we live over a mile from the township. I had never ridden a bike, but was very keen to learn, for I did not take kindly to walking after riding horses. The day after it was given to me was a school day, but in the evening I had my first try. I did not manage to ride it until the next night, however, and went proudly down our road riding it. All went well, and I was to ride it to school next day. In the morning I went off for a trial ride, and a “showing off” to the family. Suddenly I ran into a rut, cannoned into the hedge (luckily the laurel part and hot the frickly piece), then over went the bike. he worst part of my injuries was a skinned hand which, if I had been allowed to ride, would have stopped me from holding the bars.. By now I consider myself a seasoned rider, for, they say, ‘you can never ride until you have a few ‘•spills,” and 1 can even indulge in a little “stunting” with’ no mishaps. My email cousin, who lives with us, is just at the age when he says funny things. To-day he said he had learnt a new song at school. When questioned, he started off: “The gran ole julie chalk . . .’’ (which i 3 translated “The grand old Duke of York.') His Sunday school text some time ago was “No man can serve two masters." After much drilling he was asked to repeat it. Much to our surprise he answered, “No man serves can tomatoes.'' My little French rabbit is very funny. Sometimes we take it inside to play with, but it is not advisable to do so very often. One day, set on mischief, he chewed through a pair N)f boot laces for dad, and, not satisfied with this, he found my best hat, a white straw, which must have fallen from its peg. When I came into the passage to hunt for bunny, I saw a white tail disappearing through a door, and the remains of my hat. He had eaten right round the brim of it, rendering it practically useless. It is said that mischief i 3 found for idle hands, teeth in this case, for bunny, still with “a little bad man on his back,” went into our young lettuce bed. Mum took a hand this time, and bun had to be contented with his box for some time afterwards. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, LENWILLA (Mosgiel). [You learned to ride very soon, Lenwilla. Bunny must be a mischief.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your band of of Young Folk? My age is thirteen years, and I am in Standard VI at Toko District High School. This Saturday Toko Primary football team defeated Kiatangata by six points to four. I was playing, but I didn t uiako a score.—Yours truly, PONG-WONG, THE CHOW (Milton). [Welcome, Pong-Wong, the Chow. Do you often score?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your ever increasing band? I am thirteen years of age, and I left school last year after gaining my proficiency. We receive the Witness every week, and I usually read the lettrs in the page.—Yours truly, DEJERFOOT, THE INDIAN (Port Molyneux).

[Welcome, Deerfoot, the Indian. Your name was taken. Are you at home?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your happy band of happy Folk? I am only nine years old, and I am in Standard 11. Yesterday my brother played in a football match. Best love to yourself.—Yours truly, BILLY, THE SCOUT (Milton). [Welcome, Billy, the Scout. You must write in ink.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—We are having our house painted just new, and it looks quite different already. I was at a bachelors’ ball at Wairuua on Thursday night. I walked. It was only two miles. So 1 was quite warm by the time I arrived there. Then I had a good time. I have been doing a good bit of fancy work lately. I finished one tablecentre, and I have started another with richelieu work in, so I have been busy. I started another book, “The Wanderer of the Wasteland,” by Zane Grey. It is a good book. I saw in one of the Witnesses someone said she liked Zane Grey as he made her think she saw what he was writing about, and I agree with her. My brother was here for a week He came on Monday and went back on Saturday. While he was here I took him into the pictures. The name of it was “The Clean Heart," a book by A. M. Hutchison.—Yours truly, , BETTY JO (Otago). [I am pleased you enjoyed yourself, Betty Jo. Do you often go to pictures? —DOT.] Dear Dot,—Our chrysanthemums seem to have retired from flow-ring this winter. The days seem t' be growing shorter instead of getting longer. But 1 suppose I think that because I am longing for the long days to come. We went to the pictures on Saturday light in Lawrence, and I thought them very good. The name of the picture was ‘‘The Rainbow Trail." Although it is mid-winter, eur tanks are very low, but they should have a fair amount of water in them now after the rain. I am reading a book called “Danesbury House." Kindest, regards to all.—Yours truly, VIOLET SPRAY’S MATE (Lawrence). [You will not notice the lengthening days for some time yet, Violet Spray’s Mate. — DOT.] Dear Dot,—The mountains around us are quite white. Wo were at the pictures last Satuiday night. They wore very interesting. We will be having the mill. I hone it is fine, as it is always wet when we have it. There are 15 Little Folk in this district I know. I had my right leg scalded with hot fat the other day. It was not very nice, but it could have been worse. Our school teacher may be going away. I am reading a book called “The White Queen of Okoyong,' by W. P. Livingstone. Have you read it? I did not go for music last Friday, as it was 100 wet. My brother found a hen’s nest with 17 eggs the other day. Love to all.—Yours truly, HELTER SKELTER (Tuapeka West). [You are rich in Little Folk friends, Helter Skelter.-DOT.] Dear Dot,—Our new achool master has «omi, and he is very nice. 1 am aorry that

our old teacher left ut. We are milking eleven cows, and it is plenty. We are going to play a hockey match soon for tho cup, and I hope we win. We won the cup last J®r, and we hope to win it this year. Many people feel the cold in the mornings. I have two brothers going to school, and they are busy doing their lessons. I am leading a book called ‘The Grey House on the Hill." Have you read it? I learn, music, and I like it very much. Skating is a very favourite game here, and it is on every night.—Yours truly, SUNFLORET (Gore). [Can you skate, Sunfloret? No I have not read the book.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—My sister is away to Invercargill to have her bottom teeth extracted, and I’m chief cook. I like keeping house. 1 am going to stay with Sheila Fleetwood nest Sunday. I’m looking forward to it. We always have great fun together. The tip of my tongue is sore (must be the result of too much talking), but. I hope it’s better by the time I go to Sheila Fleetwood's. The puppies I wrote about last letter are growing big now,, but are still just as fab as ever. You asked me what I call them. They are called some funny names sometimes, but 1 named them Punch and Scotty. Don’t you think them good? Clifden Hunt is over now, and it was very exciting in places. I have some great fun taking snaps. I think it is such a pleasant hobby. I always say everyone ought to have a hobby. Mine used to be milking cows, but I have had a change. They always tell me - that I have a change every month, but taking snaps has lasted now for months. My cats are silently disappearing. I have only twelve now# Kind regards to all.—Yours truly, TOMBOY BESS (Lilburn Valley). [You must not use so much “slang," Tomboy Bess. Do the puppies suit their names? -DOT.] Dear Dot,—The Bell Ringers were here last night. Daddy’s Little Help and Old Winter went, and they had an A 1 time. I was going, but I didn’t. I wonder what has ceme of Baby’s Nurse Girl? I have not seen her letter in for a while. The butcher did not come yesterday because his car broke down, so he just came to day. Mother is out to-night, and Daddy’s Little Help went with her. We have one hen laying. The school is closed on account of the mumps. 1 have not had them yet, but I suppose I shall be the next to catch them. Have you had them yet? I am reading a very interesting book called “Swiss Family Robinson." I suppose you have read the book 1 have mentioned. The sun is just trying to go up over the mountain. Love to all and your own self.—Yours truly, DOT’S SWEETHEART (Ida Valley). [Tut, tut, Sweetheart! You will not catch mumps. I have not had mumps, and don’t intend to have them.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—There was a social here last Tuesday for a gentleman who was leaving Kelso. He will be missed by the friends he has left behind. I have just finished a book called “The Indian Vengeance.” It was very thrilling. Our hens are not laying, but our ducks are. My brother and uncle killed our pigs last week. We have been living hockey, practice on Wednesday and Friday. We played Heriot about a fortnight ago, and we won 3 to 2. Do you play hockey? I would not miss a game of hockey. It is all right on a fine day, but on a wet day one is mud from head to foot. We had the chaffcutter last Friday, and it broke up our road a good bit. Our baker had hard work to turn his car. Kind regards to all the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly, ZORAIDA (Kelso). [Have you read Ellis’s Indian books, Zoraida? I do not play hockey.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band of Little Folk? We have one cow, and she is just about dry, so we have to buy our miik now. I Standard IV at school, so I will have to work hard to go into Standard V. Heaps of love to Dot’s Little Folk.— ours truly, TOM MIX, THE COWBOY (Otago). [Welcome, Tom Mix, the Cowboy. Hava you seen Tom Mix act?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l was at the Exhibition. On school holidays I slide down the hills on my little sledge, and have great fun. We have one cow and one calf. My sister and brother gave the calf a fright yesterday. It broke its chain and jumped out on to the road and raced down the road for about a mile. Daddy had to take his car out and race after it. We caught it, put it in a bag, brought it home, and tied it up again. I have one little kitten. Will you please give me a name for it? We live about twenty miles from Timaru, amongst the hills. Daddy keeps sheep and grows wheat, and we have five horses.—Yours truly, PEACHY (Cave). [You must not frighten an animal aa helpless as a little calf is, Peachy. Call the kitten Blink.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l saw in the letters last w>ek one of your Little Folk wanted to become a sailor. I wonder how he would like being out at sea these rough days? I have read a few books lately and enjoyed them very much. My father has set me on reading Sexton Blake’s books, and they are very interesting. There was a dance last Friday night, but as it was a wet night I did not go. My brother went, but he said there were only a few there, and it was not a success. I have a young parrot, but it does not talk yet. I don’t think it will till spring time. My brother has four pigeons, and one of them Is sitting on two eggs, but they will be hatched in about a fortnight. We have five cows calved, but we will soon have more in. We are going to milk about fortyfive this season. It won’t be long now till the farmers have to be busy with the plough, will it? I had a ffeW violets given me yesterday, and they have a lovely scent. I think violets are the nicest flowers I know of. My'sister still learns painting, and has done some very nice pictures. The last one was of Milford Sound, and I think it is my favourite. One of her paintings has travelled as far as Masterton. She gave it to one of our aunts at Christmas time. Sago Pudding (my sister) had a long letter from Tup the other day. She always looks forward to her letters. What has become of A Little Hard Case? We are expecting to have the telephone in our house before next Christmas. Our hens and ducks are laying well. We have 20 hens and six ducks, and receive about twelve eggs every day. All our liens are Rhode Island Rea ones. We have a retriever dog called Shott. Do you think that is a good name for a dog? One day we were trying how high he could jump, and he can jump about five feet high. Love to all and youx own dear self.—Yours truly, PONTO (Hinahina). [Yea, it is a good name for the dog, Ponto. A sailor becomes used to rough seas.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—l am 13 years old now, and I am in Standard VI at school. I did not go to the closing of the Exhibition, but I went to it for three weeks. Robinetta and I stayed at homo and kept house while her mother went. We had fun baking and cooking, and we forgot about the potatoes until 12 o'clock. Thon we remembered. I went to the picture culled “The Gold Rush." U

was lovely. I do not learn music, biA my sister does. We play basket ball at sobool, and we are going to play matches soon. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, CHERRY BLOSSOM (Middlemarch). [You would soon improve if you cooked pften, Cherry Blossom.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—On Saturday Cherry Blossom and I went to our uncle’s place. We walked, and it is two and a-half miles. We enjoyed ourselves immensely. We played with the garden hose, and by the time we had finished our game we were very damp. The Naseby footballers came last Saturday, and the score was a draw. There are euchre parties here every fortnight, and they are wel patronised by the local people. I went to the pictures on Friday, and they were good. I learn music, and I like it. I have learnt for nearly four years. I have several correspondents.—Yours truly, ROBiN ETTA (Middlemarch). [A garden hose is a damp plaything, Robinetta. What pieces have you learnt at music ?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I become a member of your happy band}' I am a little Australian, born in New South Wales. I live in Northwest Arm of Port Hacking. It is a lovely place, and as we are right on the water, we have plenty of bathing in the summer time. I am nine years of age. I am in the Fifth Class, and have been going to school two and a-half years. . At the first school I attended tliero were only twenty-one scholars, and when the number dwindled to Mven> they closed the school. Now I am faang to a school four and a-half railed ftom where I live. We ore right alongside «ke National Park, where all kinds of wild Mun&ls live. There are kangaroos, wallabies, tfawums, deer, bandicoots, rabbits, hares, CJtd numbers of small animals. The deer ■•ad to come in our garden and eat all our vagotables, so father had to wire-net it all i«i. The lyre bird also lives in the park. He J 3 a wonderiul mimic, and _ can imitate tha cry ,and call of every bird in the park. 1 have a little fox terrier named Peter, »nd when ever we sit down to have something to eat, he comes along and begs for tomething, too. —Yours truly, KANGAROO (Sutherland, Australia). [Welcome from Australia, Kangaroo. You write remarkably well for nine years of age. Tel us about your games.—DOT.] Dear Dot,— May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I am 14£ years of age, and have left school. I live away out in the country, verv far away from any young people’ but I am quite happy with plenty of animals, which I am very fond of. Yours truly, . ROSEMARY RIVER (Martinboroughj. (Welcome, Rosemary River. Your name waa taken. Write your auto on a separate piece of paper.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —May I join your band of Little Folk? I am eleven years old and I am in Standard VI at school. I passed my first term examination. There are only nineteen children going to our school. 7. went to the Xxhibilion with the school excursion, and I had a good time. I went on nearly all the amusements, and liked them all, especially the scenic railway and the fun factory. Before I came up here I used to live at Island Block, and I went to Rae’s Junction School. X)*d has six dogs. One is too old to work, usd one is too young. The old one, Glen, j a about thirteen years old, and he is both Marly deaf and blind. Dad often goes to dog trials. I have three brothers and two aixters. We all go to school except my fettle brother Alastair, who is two—Yours feuiy, ALICIA (Hinds). [Yes, you may join, Alicia. Glen will not have many more years to live.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your happy band? I am in Standard VI at school. It is not very big, as there are not many pupils. At playtime one day last week a saw-bench came in and sawed up a heap of wood for the school, for it is very cold in the mornings 'now old Jack Frost is here. Ally were very interested in the saw-bench, which was mounted on the front of the small traction engine which drove it. I went to the Exhibition with one of the school children s excursions with my brother and sister, and we enjoyed ourselves very much. I was on the scenic railway, and I thought it the most thrilling thing in the Amusement Park. When I went down the first dip I really thought that the bottom of the. world had fallen out. Were you on the scenic railway? Did you think the Exhibition looked like a “fairy town” at night, with its many coloured lights? I did. I live 25 miles away from the nearest town, and 11 miles away from the nearest railway station, but we are only about two miles away from the sea, and about the same distance from the mouth of the Rangitata River. I used to live near the Clutha River once. There is a big orchard there, and many strawberries, which I miss. Kind regards to all Little Folk. —Yours truly, SHYRIDER (Hinds). [Welcome, Shyrider. I was on the scenic. Yes, it was a “fairy town.”—DOT.] Dear Dot, —I have been to a few football matches lately. I was at one on Saturday, but our team lost by 5 points. There have been a few dances here lately. Do you like the “Elsie” books? I do. I have read five of them.—Yours truly, SWEET LILAC (Mabel Bush). '[<Have you read the “Anne” books, Sweet Lilac?-DOT.] Dear Dot,—l have not seen any letters from my consins lately. We don’t see Jimmy Rabbit often, though he is- N one of our nearest neighbours. I am in Standard 111 at school, and only on Exercise 40 in our sum book. We play at slides at school, as we have no more games ’to play. Our school ground is not level. The school is on the hill, and everyone hag to walk up hill to it. Our neighbours allow us to go through their ground* which cuts off a half mile for us. Love to all and yourself. —Yours truly, MARCH MOON (Ratamii). [I sunuoso you run down the hill from School, March Moon.—DOT.] Dear Pot,—l was at the euchre party last Friday, and won three games out of nine. I have decided to stay at home from the picture* and go to the euchre instead. I did not miss the last picture, “Charlie Chaplin in the Gold Rush.” I t y: ' 1 was the best picture I’v* seen. Naseby footbaVers played against Middlemarch last Saturday; it was a draw, eight all. My two sister* used to writfl-*to the page, but they have become too lazy to write. Our brown dog is not fierce, but I think it is our neighbour who is frightened of it. I am saving cigarette cards, and our storekeeper gave me twenty-nine scenes.' Thanks for the name which you gave my cat. I thought it very suitable. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, EUNICE (Middlemarch). [•A dog can be very well tempered, Eunice, and eften it is bis master who makes him angry.—DOTJ Dear Dot,— l go to Gore every Friday to learn cooking. I find it very enjoyable. There is a carnival in Wyndham. There

are four princes, one to represent each ‘tee. Mum is going to a concert to-nigEi for the Red Prince. I was seeing a friena to-night, and she showed me her magpie. It is a big black and whits one. We have sold my pet lamb. I was sorry when I saw him being put in the cart. People have influenza about here. My nearest neighbour has it. There is a new fence at our school Do you go in for the geography puzzle in the Exporter? I do, and find it very interesting.—Yours truly, POPPIE (Menzies Ferry). [tNo, I do not go in for the geography puzzle, Poppy. I suppose you will have another pet lamb.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I will bs 14 in October. I am in Standard V. We have been shifting, and we are busy unpacking. How did you like the Exhibition? I suppose you are sorry that it is over. We go to school in a covered-in car. The school is five miles from here.—Yours truly, ONE LITTLE NIGGER BOY (Winton). [Welcome, One Little Nigger Boy. Your name was taken. I liked the Exhibition.— DOT.] Dear Dot, —Please allow me to become a member of your page. I am 13 years of age, and in Standard VI. As we do not receive tho Witness, our neighbour toid me that I could read their Witness. Last Friday night there were pictures here, and the name was Charlie Chaplain in “The Gold Rush.” Have you seen it screened? It is a very comical one. Love to all the Little Folk and your own self.—Yours truly, DUNIRA (Central Otago). [Welcome. Dunira. I did not see Charlie Chaplin.—DOT.] Dear Dpt,—May I join your band of Little Folk? What a number of Little Folk you have! It must be quite ing all their letters. I enjoy reading them very much. We have just shifted into a new place. It is a sheep station of about five thousand acres The place is hilly, and most of it is covered with manuka. The house is well sheltered with trees. The house feels very small after being in a large house. I was sorry to leave the other place. There are seven in our family,? and what a noisy family we are, too! My brother and I are the only ones who have left school yet. I .went to school in town for about 18 months. I liked it very much, but soon became tired of doing lessons. My mother gave me a very nice camera for my birthday, and I have taken a few snaps with it. I am very fond of reading, and have read quite a number of books. One of my favourite authors is Zane Grey. Ai present I am reading “Teas of the Storm Country,” and like it very much. My brother. One Little Nigger Boy, is writing, too. He didn’t go to school because he had a sore throat Kindest regards to all. — Yours truly, w CAPTAIN BULL’S WOOL (Winton). SWelcome, Captain Bull’s Wool. Has the “Tess” picture visited Winton?—DOT.] Dear Dot, —May I write a farewell letter, seeing that 1 am now a little over twentyone? I had a lovely birthday, and received such a number of beautiful presents, a crocheted supper cloth, fountain pen, white xylonite toilet set, consisting of brush, comb, mirror, brush tray, jewel case, manicure tray and outfit, silver thimble, eighteen handkerchiefs, vanity bag, vase, handkerchief sachet, gold brooch, set with three rubies and six pearls, two books, silver butter dish ar.d knife, two coloured sweets dishes, cruet set, rose bowl, fruit bowl, manicure set, box of chocolates, and a large two-tiered cake, beautifully iced and adorned with twenty-one candles, I received several birthday cards and telegrams, as well as heaps of good wishes. In the evening we had a party in honour of the great occasion, at which there were several Dot’s Little Folk present. We played all manner of parlour games, and had a very enjoyable evening. My cake looked so pretty with all the candles lighted. After supper the evening terminated by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne” and three cheers for me. Winter will soon be over, but the days seem to be colder now. Still, it is nice to think that spring will soon once more be with us. It is not long since we had the chaff-cutter in, as this year we had a very late harvest. I hope to number among the Old Writers next time. Best wishes to all.—Yours, truly, A COURTEOUS COON (Milton). [You must have had a happy birthday, Courteous Coon. We are sorry to lose you, and hope to hear from you in Old Writers’ Week.—DOT.] Dear Dot, —We had a hockey concert, and gathered about £7, which went towards buying sticks. . We are going to play Lawrence to-morrow at Beaumont, and then on Saturday we shall play Moa Flat. I hope we win to-morrow, but I don’t think we will, a* Lawrence has a strong team. I was playing hockey to-day, and had a eood game. I like reading “The Chums’ World Tour.” They are now at Tibet, and wonder where they will end up. Love to you.—Yours truly, TASMIN (Beaumont). [I hope you win, Tasmin. What place do you play at hockey ?—DOT.] Dear Dot,—Just after I wrote my last letter I went to Dunedin, and I had euch a good time. I did not want to come south again. There is nothing but mud down this way. One cannot go out with very light footwear this weather. I have two little brothers at home from school to-day, and they are annoying me so much that I can hardly write this letter. My mother and father milk seven cows every morning, but I supEose they will soon dry them off. We played ockoy against Drummond last Wednesday. We were beaten 3 to nil. The ground was nothing but little pools, and such nicelooking creatures we were when we finished the game—mud from head to feet. I wish all the Little Folk the best of luck and your own self.—Yours truly, PRETTY REDWING (Riverton). [I hope the little sister is well soon, Pretty Redwing. The hockey grounds here are very muddy.—DOT.] Dear Dot,—lt will not be very long until spring is here, and then we shall see more of Nature’s works. We have all had influenza here, and I suppose you Dunedin folk are having your share of it, too, Some people have been very bad with it. In some cases it has gone ittto pneumonia, and then that effects their hearts, which is very bad. I must tell you of our little lamb It doe* not want to stay with its own mother, but with another jsheep, and it seems to take to it, too. It Is such a funny little thing.—Yours truly, A CANTERBURY LASS (Leeston). [Tell us more of the lamb, Canterbury Lass. Influenza has been hero.—DOT.] NOTES. Fair Rosy.—You wrote in pencil, so I could not print the letter, dear.—DOT. Queen Mab’s. Mate.—You wrote in pencil, too, dear.—DOT. Woodbdaver.—Perhaps you will be milking two and a-half cows by now. Write a proper letter, and send your name if you wish to join.—DOT.

AUTOS. Poppy Day Bain, Tycho) would like to correspond with any Little Folk from 11 to 12 years of age. Will they please write first? Deerfoot the Indian (Colin Murdoch, Port Molyneux, via Balclutha) wishes to correspond with Robinetta. Scotch Girl (Barbara V. Innes, Middlemarch, Central Otago) wishes to correspond with Panhandle Kid, and wishes him to write first. Music Girl (Susie Keowa, Box 6, Balfour) wishes to correspond with Rider of the Golden Bar. t Lucy Locket’s Mate (Mabel Geary, Taieri Mouth) wishes Mum’s Pet to write again, please. Just Patty (May Scofield, 141 Surrey street, South Dunedin) wishes to correspond with Reginald Denny, My Spec, Rewa Taniwha, and any Little Folk from 15 to 18 willing. Cherry Blossom (Betty Robertson, Middlemarch) wishes to correspond with Little Folk 12 or 13 years of age. Fairy of the Snow-capped Mountains (T. Andrews, u/o School Cottage, OturehuaJ wishes to correspond any girl Folk writing from Gore. She wishes her correspondents to note her change of address'. Two Little Love Birds (Sibena Carline, Box 89, Alexandra) wishes to correspond with My Spec, Rider of Golden Bar, lone, and any girls or boys who have left school. Eunice (Anna Slater, Middlemarch) wishes to correspond with Lady of the Mist and any Lit>le Folk from 13 to 15 years of age. Will they please write first and soon? Tasmin (Dolly Buchanan, Post Office, Beaumont, wishes to correspond with any Little Folk between 14 to 17 years. Will they please write first?