A DOT’S LITTLE FOLK WEDDING

Otago Witness, Issue 3828, 26 July 1927, Page 78

A DOT’S LITTLE FOLK WEDDING

A wedding of interest to Dot’s Little Folk took place in the Presbyterian Church, Nightcaps, at 11 o’clock on June 8, when Zuta (Miss Annie Ronald) was united in marriage by the Rev. Boyd to Mr A. MCorl'indale, of Nightcaps.

LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLK.

Motto. —We write for the benefit of others, not for ourselves.

Dear Dot, —Most of the people are having a task to dry their clothes this week. We managed to get some of ours dry between the showers. On Sunday we were going to the river, but visitors came in, so we did not go. We hope to be going next Sunday if it is fine. The people of Waimahaka hold a euchre party and dance once a week, but so far I have not been. Pictures are held on Monday night at Waimahaka, and Tuesday or Wednesday nights at Mataura Island, but we do not go to either. Our cows arc all dry but four, which we milk twice a day. The shooting season is over, and we did not taste a single duck. We have a lagoon, too, but the ducks come when the season is over. There qre going to be tw r o weddings in our surrounding districts within the next two months, so that will cause a bit of excitement or. e way or another. There is to be a dance at Mataura Island on Friday night, and the bachelors and spinsters of Pine Bush and Waimahaka combined are holding their ball early next month. Kind regards to all. —Yours truly CLEVER MARY (Southland).

[lt is hard luck that the ducks come to your lagoon after the season is over, Clever Mary. Are you asked to the weddings? —DOT.]

Dear Dot, — May I join your happy band of Little Folk? 1 am in Standard V, and I am 11 years of age. I am in the football team at school. There is going to bo a largo carnival here in August. Our garden was dug this year just before the rain. I am going to the Technical School this year. Our hens are laying a number of eggs. 1 was at my uncle’s for my last holidays. I was pulling turnips and' digging potatoes and feeding the pigs. I weflt to see the chaffcutter working, I went out rabbiting on e day. Have you read the book ” David Copperfield?” It is a nice book, which I like reading.—Yours truly, P’ETER THE WHALER (Gore).

[Yes, you may join Peter the Whaler. Yes, I have read the book. Have you read f more written by Charles Dickens?— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Since I wrote to you last, we have shifted to another place. We have shifted to Glenn Road, about five and a-half miles from where we were living. I go to Manaia school, but I do not understand the work very well. Our dog doesn’t like the new place, and is always running away back to our old house. We have just bought a Chevrolet truck to take the milk to the factory. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, EGMONT (Kaupokonui).

[Perhaps you will understand the school work belter in a little while. Egmont. Your dog must be homesick.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We are having frosts here lately, and I do not like to jump out of bod in the mornings. “ The Chums ” seem to be having a great time. We have two heirs and ten ducks, but they are not yet laying. I had 'flu, and now have got a very bad cold. Have you had the ’flu? Our baby has one tooth, and can sit up. Pin Cushion and I are going to have a cigarette album each. We have two ferrets. Rabbits are very scarce to what they were last year. 'This year is slipping round quickly. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, GREY MORNING MIST (Balfour).

[I have not had influenza, Grey Morning Mist. Rabbits are generally scarce when skins are dear. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I have been to Gore for a holiday. It was in the Christmas holidays I went, and I was away seven weeks. I had a good holiday. We are milking four cows, and sending away the cream. I have not been at school for two days, as it is snowing, and I have a long way io go (four and a-half miles), and I ride. Horses are neo very good in snow. Are von a good skater? I am not, but I try. I have many tumbles. I do not mind that if only I could learn to skate well. I was reading Tangle Pate's letter, and it must be dreadful where the river is in flood. It was a narrow escape for the car that went on to the bridge when the water rushed over one end. My school mates saw the Duke, and they enjoyed themselves very much, but they were very tired after such a long day. I did not go to the Winter Show this year. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, x RED MANUKA FLGWER (Kononi).

[I am a bad skater, and have never really tried, Red Manuka Flower. Your horses must be glad of a rest these snowy days. —DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l see by the Itsrt Witness a letter with my name, but it liappened to be my little brother’s letter, whose item do plume is Egmont. The excitement of Hawcra Show has passed over now. I don't think it was ns good as other years. The proprietors of the chair-o-plane and the merry-' go-round did a roaring trade the ten days tliey were in town. I see by your columns there are some more Taranaki writers. Since last writing we have shifted to a different farm, but the address is still the same. Wo have had a cousin from Hawke's Bay staying with us, and lie was very pleased when the Hawke's Bay Rugbv team secured the Ranfurly Shield from Wairarapa. We are himy carting shingle for concreting a yard. The river was ten high to-day to go through with the lorrv. —Yours tndv EGMONT LADDIE (Kaupokonui). [The letter was signed Egmont Laddie. I should have liked to see the Rsnfurlv Shield match.—DOT.] * * » • Dear Dot.—Since I last wrote to you, my father has had appendicitis, and was taken to Gore Hospital to-day to be operated on. Our winter game at school- i« “ hares and bounds,” and it is exciting dodging in and ont of the trees after one another. There Was a slight fall of anow this morning, and it waa not. very nice going to school in it. We go to Gore every Friday for cooking, and I enjoy it very much. There wag a dance here Inst night, but T did not no, as it was raining hard. Naughty Pinkie was at our p’ace to-night, end we had good fun together. Last Tuesday night I went to Blue Bells of Scotland’s place, and I enjoyed listening to the wireless set. It wss a concert from Brisbane that was on. My little sister was five on July 2. but she is not going to school till October. Wo are holdin— a bazaar here in September, •sd I mu looking forward to the exciting

night, which I hope 1 will enjoy. 1 was at a .Scotch concert on Friday night, and it was delightful. Love to all and your own dear self. —Yours truly, GINGER II (Southland). [You must have exciting games of “ hares and hounds,” Ginger 11. Arc you ever the hare? Tell me more about the concert, —UUT.] * * * Dear Dot, — My birthday is to-day, and I am expecting Maid Muriel and Iseeron and their brother over to play. Since last writing to yen we have had our little pup poisoned. Dur cow is dry. We are having very hard frosts. At school we have to do our work in pencil, as the ink is frozen. 1 have had influenza. My father has had influenza, too. Mother's machine has been broken, and she received it back the other day. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, PIN CUSHION (Balfour). [lt is well that the lead pencils cannot freeze, Pin Cushion. How did mother’s sewing machine break?—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —I am now in Standard IV, and I am 10 years of age. I had a birthday party on Saturday, and I received a number of presents. I have a new doll which is dressed in blue silk. Would you please give nc a name for it? I am making a cooking apron at school. I hope 1 will be able to go to Tech, next year. Your page is becoming very large. 1 have a new cousin since I last wrote to you. He is beginning to walk now. I am reading two ocoks called “Siveepie ” and "The Caravan Patrol.” Have you read them. Love to the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours LITTLE PRIMROSE (East Gore). [I have not read the books, Little Primrose. Your doll must Icok sweet in blue silk. Call her Diana.—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, The Little Folk’s letters are always a great source of interest to me, so i thought I would like to join your band. I am twelve years of age, but, owing to an accident, which damaged my heart, I do not go to school. I love reading, and just lately have read two books called “ Castaway Island” and “ Phyl of the Camp.” I liked them both, although the former is a, boy’s book. I am very fond of Ethel Turner’s books, and have read nearly all of them. I am a Lone Guide in one of the companies here, and am called so because, on account of my health, I am unable to attend the meetings. The Guide work is very interesting as well as being instructive. M - h b -y is stamp collecting, and I have about 300. This is not a great many, but - „.ny ban co.lecting tor a few weeks. 1 have no pets, but our next-door neighbour nas two cats, and an Airedale terrier, and very often they come through into our place, and we have great games together. The puppy knows a number of tricks, and can stand up on hie hand legs for several minutes. I think I would be very lonely without my furry friends, as my only brother is at work all day, and I have no sister. It has been so cold and wet here and I don t tnink we have had a fine sunny day for a month. I am just longing for the long summer days to come, as, indeed 1 think everyone is.—Yours truly IHE LONE GUIDE' (Waikato). [Welcome, Izone Guide, You have done very well to have so many stamps in such a short time. The puppy must be a clever boy.—DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l have finished my book at .. I 1 \ v “ s “ Scaramouche," 'by Rafael baoatini. Have you read it? 1’ thought it very interesting. We have been having baa weather lately, rain, watery sunshine, and then rain again. ] hope we are not going to have another flood. Opotiki is unfortunately situated for floods, with the Waioeka River on one side, and the Otara on the other, both rivers joining just below the town to flow together over a very bad people have most uncomfortabm feelings during prolonged rains. I am working hard for my matric. this year, and hope that I may pass it. Opotiki will soon be going to play Whakatane at basketball and football, and we are all becoming 'ery excited. Last time the A team won the B team lost, and the boys drew, so we put up a fairly creditable performance. " e want to do better this time.—Yours truly, HAWK'S MATE (Opotiki). [I have read the book you mention, Hawk’s Mate., ,7 am sorry, but I have no room lor nudics. What is the answer of the one you sent me?—DOT.] * # # Dear Dot,—The excursion from Greymouth to Christchurch was well patronised. The train left here on Saturday at 5.30 a.m. and returned on Sunday at 2 a.m. There were some alarm clocks going on Saturday morning. I went to the Girl Guides’ ball, and it was a huge success. The hall was beautifully decorated. Dances seem to attract a great crowd. Wo are selling our Charleston shoes like hot cakes. AU the kiddies of the town attempt to do the Charleston 'up the streets. It’s great watching them. The variety concert, in aid of the lech, carnival was held last night, and was a great success. Ever since they have been collecting for the Tech. Hostel, I seem to be poor. Still it's a good cause. On Saturday night after work a party .of us went along to the Tech, dance. I generally go and see the hockey matches of a Wednesday, but I guess there won’t be one to-day. I am going to a combined social to-ni'<riit, and am looking forward to a good time. Trade is anything but brisk these wet days. The buses seem to bo the only ones that benefit. Iye been buying a few new records lately to cheer things along. Kind regards to all and yourself.—Yours truly, SMILER (Greymouth). [The excursion train was packed I suppose, Smiler. You eeem to be having a happv tittio at dances and socials.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was very pleased to sec mv first letter in print. We do not like jumping out ef bed on the cold mornings to go to school. Not very long ago, one of my friends gave me a tiny white rabbit; which has now grown almost to a full-sized rabbit. I call it ‘Snowy. Kindest regards to vourself and all the Little Folk.—Yours truly MARTIN LIGHTFOOT (Owaka).

{Snowy must be a contented rabbit, Martin Lightfoot. Do you ever allow him to run snout on the lawn?—DOT.]

—May I join your band of Little hoik? We drive to school. There are only 30 children going at present. We have only one teacher. She has been here a short while. The school is beside the main Mackenzie road and railway. We often see the Mt. Ccok bus go by. It is usually we’l-filled with tourists. I should like to go to Mt. Cook. This is a farming district. There are no shops of any kind, but we can be rid of dur pennies, as a grocer calls at the school house.—Yours truly, GYPSY JACK (Sutherlands).

[Welcome, Gypsy Jack. How far have you to go to school? Perhaps you will go to Mount Oook some day.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I had a cold for a few days, ami Icwas in bed, but I am better again. The Kawarau River is very low, and th d people are looking for gold. Wo live about five miles from the river. The football season is in full swing. I do not play yet, as I am too yc-ung. We had some good slides at school when it was frosty. The ice was strong and glassy. We had our term exam., and I came fifth. I uni not as smart as my sister. She was first. 1 hope you are quite well and have not had a cold.—Yours truly, DA.D’S JOCKEY BOY (Bannockburn). [I am quite well, thank you, Dad’s Jockey Boy. Yen will have some good games of football when you are bigger.—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —1 passed my first term exam., xnd came top. I will be glad when the winter ia over and the warm days come again. I know a lady with a new clutch of little turkey chickens out already. We are receiving a few hens' eggs, but no ducks’ eggs. The birds are singing now. The sun is up late every morning, and goes down early every night. We have the sun all. the way to school sometimes, but rye don’t have it all the way home. My little sister will be five this month, and then she will be going to school. Five’of us will be going then. Have you had a cold? I have, and I don't like it. I was in bed for two and a-half days.—Yours truly, DEAR GRANNIE’S GIRL ‘(Bannockburn). [I have not had a cold, thank you, Dear Grannie's Girl. Congratulations ou your being first in the class.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was very pleased to see my first letter in print, and to know that I was enrolled as a member. Mother, baby, and I are staying at a friend’s place at. Gladbrook, as mother is ill. When we woke up this morning, there was snow an inch thick on the ground, and it does not make one think of going to school. lam reading a book called “ The Rose and the Ring,” and I like it very much. Have you read it ? I am glad August is coming around. It will be lovely when spring is here. A man is going into Middlemarch to-day, so I will be able to have this letter posted. My little brother, Peter, rides a Kiddie Kar. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.— Yours truly, LADY ARABELLA (Middlemarch). [I have read the book, Lady Arabella. Do you not think Prince Giglio has a funny name? —DOT.] -X- -XDear Dot, —May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I am 12 years of age, and I am in Standard IV. I go to Gore School, but I will soon be going to East Gore School. Last year I won the composition prize, and this year 1 hope to do better still. I have a sister who is a Little Folk, and her name is Jersey Lily. We have a pet dog who's name is I'cter, and he likes cake very much.—Yours truly BILL’S BROTHER (Gore). [Yes, you may join, Bill’s Brother. What kind of a dog ie Peter? —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —The weather here has changed from being frosty, and is very wet. I think it might snow before morning. Our new hall was opened on the 16th and 17th of last month with a bazaar. Two balls and a concert and dance have also been held, the funds going towards paying for the hall. Over £4OO has been made altogether. A carnival is being held in Gore next month, and is to last a week. Preparations ' are already being made, and we are looking forward to a good time. My cousin and I were at the Invercargill carnival for a night, and some of the fancy dresses were very good. I think the “ Absent Minded Beggar ” and the “ Boot Black ” were the funnieet there. We had our orchestral concert on the 23rd at Gore, and it was a success. The night was terribly cold, and made it rather miserable for both players and audience. We were invited to supper after it, and were considerably cheered. Influenza and colds are prevalent in the district. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. Yours truly MUSIC GIRL (Balfour).

[How splendid to raise so much money in such a short -time, Music Girl. Are you going to the Gore carnival?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I think to-night is one of the coldest nights this winter. I like reading ’’ The Chums’ Treasure Hunt.” It is a very interesting story. I have a book from the school library. It is "The Unchanged Island,” and it is a very nice book. It is all about the treasure island. Dad has influenza, and I hope I do not catch it. I usually have mumps every winter, and it is not very nice. The ice is all melted, and I don’t think there will be any more slides this winter. I am sitting at the table with an electric heater by my legs, and it is lovely and warm. I wear my'badge nearly every day, end was asked by our Bible class teacher what it was for. ' I told him, and ho said he used to write to the page about twenty-five years -ago. Our cat has a bad cold, and the dog is not very well. 1 will be left to manage the house on Saturday, for mum is going to Alexandra with my uncle in the car. I have thirty-five cousins from Alexandra to Henley. How many cousins have you? I went to a concert last Friday night, and enjoyed mvaelf very much. Love to ail the Little Folk and to your own dear self.—Yours truly, ANNE OF GREEN GAI3LES (Otago).

[I do not think I have thirty-five cousins, Anne of Green Gables. Do veu like -treasure stories?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Mother and I went to the football yesterday, but it was cold, and we left before the big match was started. We saw the match between the Otago Boys’ High School and the Palmerston schoolboys, which was won by the town boys, the score being 12 to 3. We expected the town boys to put up a bigger score, as we did not think our boys could stand up against them. The other match was between Dunback and Seacliff, and it ended in a draw, there being no score. My- father has had a watch chain made out of my hair, and people who have seen it declare that it is not in the least tike my hair. I went up to Oamaru last Tuesday and stayed at my grandmother's till Wednesday. On the Tuesday night mv granny and I wont to the pictures, and we enjoyed ourselves, though granny said afterwords that it was a little cruel at times and I agreed with her. The name of the’ picture was “ The Desert’s Toil.” Have you seen it? My grandfather is in the Oamaru Hospital just now with pneumonia, bronchitis, and pleurisy, and these sicknesses take hard with elderly people. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, MOTHER'S PRIDE (Palmerston).

[I have not seen, the picture. Mother’s DOT Bm &Orry yOUr 8 ia so

Dear Dot, —It is snowing to-day. This morning the ground was covered with snow. My brother made a little snowman, and sat it on the gate post. It will be nice when the winter is over. Wo Rave seven cows milking. One of them calved the other day. My father ia going to fell bush soon. There are a number of people felling bush this year.—Yours truly, SILVER TULIP (Otago). [How long did the little snowman take to melt. Silver Tulip? Have you a high gate post? If so it is a wonder the snowman did not fall.—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —The Waianakarua Girl Guides’ basketball team defeated the Hampden team, last Saturday by 10 goals to 2. As it was thqir first match this season the Guides were quiTo proud of themselves. You asked me if our Smuggler's Cave were wholly hidden. We found it in the heart of the bush, and had great difficulty in gaining its entrance because cf lawyer and bit-s of trees which were growing round about. As an old track was leading to the cave, it~was discovered easily enough. The demonstration of switching on the electric light waa held in the school last Saturday night, and, although it rained fairly heavily, a large crowd attended. I went with one of my school friends, and we enjoyed ourselves very much. Peter’s foot is nearly better now, after being sore for about six weeks. He is overjoyed at being able to run round once again. In my last letter you inquired whether Flipp were a friend of Darkies. I don’t think they have ever seen each other, as Darkie was given to us a few months ago by Flipp’s owner, and Flipp is only a few weeks old. We live nearly a mile away from cur neighbour's place. I now have a lovely correspondent, and her nom de plume is A Bunch of Gypsophila. She writes very nice, interesting letters. I hope all the Little Folk and yourself are well.—Yours truly, DANTE’S BEATRICE (Herbert). [The Guides need to be congratulated fowinning the match, Dante’s Beatrice. I am pleased Peter's foot is better. —DOT.] Dear Dot, —We have shifted our abode from Owaka to Drummond. I will try and describe our trip through. Wc left our old home on Sunday afternoon, and motored nine miles fo my uncle’s place, where we stayed all night. At 8 o’clock on Monday morning we set ont on our journey of 130 miles. My uncle drove one car, and dad drove the other one. When we left it was raining, and the hills were covered with snow, but before we had gone far the sun was shining. We stopped at Clinton for 20 minutes, and we arrived at Gore for dinner. After spending an hour there, we once more went on our way and arrived here (Drummond) at 3 o’clock. We had to stay at the hotel for two nights. On Tuesday afternoon the drover from Owaka arrived with our cows. It took him seven days to drive them, and he was pleased when he reached here. I like here much better than at Owaka. The roads are lovely, and one can see for miles around, as the hills are a good distance away. From here, we can see the Takitinm Mountains (about 40 miles sway), and they are covered with snow. They are lovely

when the sun shines on them. My sister and brother and 1 were at a card party last Monday night, and had a good time. Wo are all going to a fancy dress ball tomorrow night, so we are looking forward to a grand time. One of my brothers has a parson’s outfit, and Sago Pudding is going as “ Night.” I have made a dress out of towels, and am going as “Bath Girl.’ The hockey girls went to Orepuki yesterday to play hockey. They asked Sago pudding and me to go, but, as it was snowing, we stayed at home. I don’t know whether they won or not, but I think they deserved to win, as it was such a bad day to travel so far. We receive our mail every morning, and Sago Pudding and I take turns going for it. As we both have bicycles, it does not take long to ride to the nest office and homo again. We are milking three cows, but will soon have more in. We have milking machines in, and we will find it far easier to milk a big number of cows. We intend to milk about 60 cows this year. We have three electric lights in the cowbyre and four in the stable. There was a ploughing match here last week, and we on’oved witrbi-- the men ploughing both with horses and tractors. The champion match was he.d in VVa.uieetown yesterday, and a young man ir:-m Drummond won the championship ticket. Love to all and your own dear self.—-Yours truly, PONTO (Drummond). [I am pleased you like your row homo, Ponto. I hope ycu enjoy the fancy dress dance.—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —I have booked my passage for Tuesday, so I will be home again cn Tuesday night. I will go by car as far ns Motuhora, then home bv train, as the Otoko hill is too bad for the service cais. I hope it will be fine for the trip. It will be good to be home again. We were in to Whakntane yesterday afternoon, and had a busy time shopping. I was buying some things to take home -with me. There was a large crowd in town, as there was a big football match on between Rotorua and Whakatane, resulting in a win for the former by 21 to 15. We did not bother to go along and watch the match, but there was a large crowd there. When we were coining out, we stopped at the hospital to see little Owen. He is beginning to pick up again now. I am very glad to say. It is so worrying when such a baby like that is ill. I hope he will lie able to come home soon. It is decided that he will be called Owen Lyall. I gave a storybook yesterday, and she has been looking at it ever since. She roads away to herself, but it would take a very clever person to understand half of what she is reading. She, always likes to help us with the work, ami when wo wash the dishes, she dries her own spoon and fork. She knows all sorts nF rhymes and stories, and tells them to us. Of course, we think there is ro one like her. I expect she will miss me a little when I am gone, and I will miss her, ton. At present I am reading “ Beltane the Smith,” by Jeffery Farnol, and last week I read “The Loring Mysterv ” bv him. I like his books. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly. RED RAG GER (Te K&raka).

[Fae will miss yen when you go home, Red Ragger. I hope Owen is better toon. DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I join your happy bgnd of Little Folk? I am 15 years of age, but 1 do not go out working yet. I stay at home and help my mother. There is to be a ball here on July 20 but 1 do not think I shall go, as I will have to look after my baby sister. There have been no football matches here for a few weeks on account of the weather. My mate and I went to the pictures last Tuesday night, and enjoyed ourselves very much. The name of the picture was “ The Better ’Ole." I learn music, and have been for two exams. The'rc was a big bonspiel at Nascby last Friday and Saturday, and my mate and I were up to see it. It was lovely to watch them curling. Kind regards to all. —Yours trulv, A FOOTBALL CAPTAIN (Banfurly). [Welcome, Football Captain. Your name was taken. Which examinations have you passed in music? —DOT.]

■ Dear Dot, —May I become a member of your band of Little Folk? I know Nunny, because w e lived in the same place for eight years. My father keeps a small run. We had three cats, but we have only one left. We have a doll, and would you please give us a name for it? Mother gave it to ns for a keepsake. There is a big dance here to-night. A number of people are laid up with measles. Do we have to keep our same nom de plume?.—Yours truly, MARKINC TIME (Hakataramea).

[Welcome, Marking Time. You must not change your nom de plume. Call the doll Rosemary.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I become a, member of your happy band of Little Folk? I am nearly 16, and I have left school. Last year I attendeed a boarding school in Dunedin, and liked it very much. My sister has had a shift to Christchurch. She was working in the telephone exchange. We have had good fun on the ice. I was on the skates a good few times, but I do not seem to grasp the fact that both feet go together. I have been learning music for some time, and enjoy each lesson. My two brothers play football, and my young brother plays in the school team. There is to be a ball on Wednesday night, but I do not think I will go, as my mother intends to go. Last month I was confined to my bed with influenza for about a week, and I read five books in that time. I am a

real bookworm, but since I have been at home, I do not seem to have the time to read. There were pictures on Tuesday night, ” The Better ’Ole.” I liked it very much in some places, but in others it was quite unreasonable. My mate and I are writing these letters together. We have the table pulled up beside a big log fire. My little brother was 10 on Tuesday and considers himself quite a man. Kind regards to all and yourself.—Yours truly, A FOOTBALLER’S DARLING (Ranfurly). [Welcome, Footballer’s Darling. Docs your sister like Christchurch? Did your brother enjoy his birthday ?—DOT.] * * *

Dear Dot, —I am in Standard VI this year, and I hope to gain my proficiency. There is going to be a hockey conceit here on Tuesday night, but I shall not be going. There is also going to be a spinsters’ dance here on the 19th of this month, and my two sisters are going. We have been having snow lately, but it is fine again to-day. We are milking five cows, but they do not give much milk. My sister and myself went to Invercargill in our cousin’s car about a week ago, and we enjoyed ourselves immensely. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly. LOST GIP (Wyndham).

[I hope you pass your proficiency, Lost Gip. Work hard and you will not find the examination hard.—DOT.l

Dear Dot, —We had our Sunday school decorated with narcissi to-day, but they were from Wellington. To-day we received the results of our Sunday school examination which we did a few weeks back. No one in our Sunday school won any firsts for New Zealand, but some were very near it, and we had three or four firsts for the Clutha district. Yesterday the boys under 16 hero played a football match against Waitahuna boys under IG, and it ended in a draw—3 all. The men also played Wnitahuna men, the latter being beaten by 14 points. The score was 17 to 3. What bad floods there are in the United States, aren't there? I have seen photographs of them, and the photographer must have been in great danger. I have correspondents in India, Canada. England, and Australia now. I had the addresses of some from " Fanny Ficolax’s Page ” in Mv Magazine, from which one can have addresses of would-be pen friends from many countries. The ladies’ hockey team is playing a match against Heriot on Wednesday, I think, so I may go and see it. Love to all Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly BUTTERCUP LA-SS (Lawrence). [Your Sunday school did well in the examination, Buttercun Lass. The floods seem Lad in America. —DOT.]

Dear Dot,—Please may I join vour happy band of Little Folk? I am 10 years of age. and I am in Standard 111 at school, I like reading your Litile Folk letters, which are very nice indeed. We have two little pups, and we call them Lass and Rriy. They are full of fun and mischief. It is very cold this morning with a cold wind blowing. We arc going to the pictures to-night. The name of the picture is "Get Your Hair Cut,” with Jackie Coogan. I am looking forward to it. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, LITTLE TOM THUMB (Otekaikc). [Welcome, Little Tom Thumb. Your name •was taken. Send your private name and address. Puppies are generally mischievous. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I have a bluish kitten, and could you give me a name for it? How do you like these cold days? I wish it were warmer. I haven’t very far to go to Bchool. Every morning I go to school in the train. I know one Little Folk who goes to our school. Nearly all our family have co*ds. Our school and the Clyde school joined to play Alexandra to-day. I do not know who is in the team yet. I wish all and yonr own dear self the best of health. .—Yours truly, OLAF THE OUTLAW (Clyde). [Call the kitten Puff. I like, surmv days better than these cold ones Olaf the Outlaw. —DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —We have 15 little pigs. The weather is like spring. The big girls in Otekaikc are playing basketball. My brothers are away to Tokarahi to church. Love to all and your own self.—Yours truly, A ZEALAND ROSE (Olekaikej.

[Fifteen little pigs must make much squealing, Zealand Rose. Are you going to play basketball some day?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We have five little lurcher pups, and they are such dear little things. We have 269 pullets, and we receive 150 eggs a day; also 200 old hens, and we receive 60 eggs a day. Dad killed one of our heifers, Daisy, about a month ago, and 400 pounds was her weight. My brother has a wireless set, and we often hear some lovely music. I went to Oamaru on July 1, and had 12 teeth out. Love to all and your own dear self. —Yours truly, OHARMARY (Otekaike). [Have you named the puppies, Charmary? How long have you had your wireless set? —DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —We are going to have peace and quietness once more. School etarts again to-morrow’. I was trying to write letters this afternoon, and the kiddies were playing Red Indians. They sounded just like Red Indians, too. A friend of ours left her two little kiddies here for the night. We had great fun with the little boy. He is a hard case. My siser was reading him a story, and ehe said one word wrong, and he corrected her. He has a great memory, and remembers what he has heard almost word for word. Another little boy of our acquaintance one night went to a concert with his mother. He had evidently not seen a man with a bald head before, and there was one just in front of him. After gazing in wonder at this etrange sight, he turned to his mother and said loudly, " Oh, mum, look at that fellow with the skinned head.” I love hearing the quaint sayings of children, don’t yon? When one of my sisters was wee ehe did something .naughty, and mother told her she wouldn’t go to Heaven. Instead of being upset, she coolly remarked that she did not want to go to Heaven. She was going with dad. Of course we all enjoyed the joke against dad. I really think it is spring. We are having lovely days. Love to all.—Yours truly, BUSTER CUT (Hakataramea). [Children say some sweet absurd things, Buster Gut. Your daddy enjoyed the joke as much as anyone, I suppose.—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —I have been in the Oamaru Hospital with an abscess on the neck. I was in there for 16 days. I have been in the hospital three times now. We have cocoa at school. I have an uncle in the hospital. He has been in there about seven weeks. He has had pneumonia, but he is getting better now and will soon be home again. Last night we had two visitors for tea I had my birthday on May 20, and I was 10. I received a box of hankies and two small cakes of soap. We are having our holidays next month, so I will be glad then. Dad and my brother are working on the road up at Livingstone. Dad comes home at night, but my brother stays there. Best love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, RED FLOWER (Maerewhenua). [I hope you do not have to go into the ■ hospital any more, Red Flower. Does your brother stay the week-end away?—DOT.]

* * * i Dear Dot, —I hope you are quite well. We are starting school to-morrow, and wo are ; going to drive. We have had a month's ; holiday. Our cousins are coming for a ’ holiday up here when the days are warmer. I I had a very pleasant birthday. I had a i party the day before it, for my friend was i there, and I had my presents then, too. My r sister won a prize for the best photograph I of the week. There are a number of useful 3 sheds here, and it. is a nicer house than 1 the other one we lived in.—Yours truly, 3 NUMBER SEVEN (Hakataramea). [I am pleased to hear you had a happy birthday, Number Seven. What was your

sister's photograph?—DOT.] * * » rtenr Dot, — How arc you keeping fin this cold weather? We had a week’s hard frost here, and had skating on a small pond on the farm. It was the first time I had the rnce to skate on ice. and it was fun. Of course we slid elsewhere than on our feet. What a mud there was after the frost, and then the rain made more mud. You are lucky in town. You have clean streets and pavements. The garden is looking bare with only a few hardy flowers left. I have two cats. I hold out my hands and they both jump over at the same time. I see a picture of the fernery in this week’s Witness, and it looks lovely. I like ferns, even the plain wild ones. I am reading “ Pickwick Papers.” Did you ever read them? I put in some baking to the Winter Show, and had one first and three second prizes, so I was quite pleased, for in some of the classes there were a number of entries. I must try again to see if I can win more first prizes. Best I wishes to you and all Little Folk.—Yours I truly, i GEM (Southland). [Our pavements were very muddy after the frost, Gem. You must be a good cook to win a first prize.—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —We had a fall of snow here lately, but it is all melted now. Did you see the eclipse of the sun and the moon? I did, and think they were very pretty. We are milking one cow, and she is very handy, as ehe will allow me to milk her anywhere in the paddock. We have about 40 hens, but there are not very many laying. We have a wee yellow puppy, and will you please give me a name for him? Some people round about here have had influenza, but fortunately I have only a cold eo far. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, RIBBONWOOD (Otago). [I saw the eclipse of the moon. Ribbonwood. C-a.ll your puppy Gimlet. Can he jump high?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I came first in the term exam, in Standard I. We have two little calveo. Their names are Trixie and Midge. The big moon is just rising. We had hard frosts on top of snow. I did not like going to school, for it was too cold. My teacher allows me to hear some other children their lessons sometimes. I like my teacher, because she gives me the cony books to give out. I have not bad the strap yet. Daddy took us out for a drive in the car today. It is time I was in bed. Love to you and all the Little Folk.—Yours truly, WEE DOROTHY (Southland). [Congratulations on your being top of the class, Wee Dorothy. Where did you go for your car drive?—DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —On Friday afternoon, I went to see the football match against our echool and Otautau. Our school won by six scores to three scores. They arc building a theatre here called ” Theatre Royal " for the competitions in September. We have started pen-and-ink drawing at school now, and I like it very much. Love to all.—Yours truly, i IRVINE (Southland).

[I suppose yon were pleased your boys I were winners, Irvine. What things do you draw with pen and ink?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I wonder where the “ Chums ’ will be next? They must be enjoying themselves, although they have had many frights. The bulbs are all through the ground. I like flowers very much; do you? I like roses and chrysanthemums. I have seen some lovely ones in the Dunedin gardens. Your page is growing larger every 1 week. I would like to know how many you had, although it would be very hard to count them all, I think. There are euchre parteis held here now, and a dance and supper after. There are quite good prizes given, I think, though I have not been yet. Our Bchool is very small. There are only 11 of us (six girls and five boys). The little lambs will soon be coming. I think I will have only one pet this time. They are too much of a bother, and always go just where they are not wanted, and will even come inside our house if we allow them. I have been trying to do a crossword puzzle, and after working more than half of it out I cannot do the others. We have been playing cricket at school, but it was too cold, bo we have to find some other game now to play. Do you like cricket? The students must have had great fun on Capping Day. I have not been to school for about three days, as we have a long way to go, and it is not very good going in the wet. I did not come into Dunedin for the Winter Show, as I had been away just about a week before it, and had a lovely time. I didn't have one wet day all the time. Love to all and your own eelf.—Yours truly, GRANDMA’S ANN (Otago).

[I like flowers, Grandma's Ann. Cricket is a good game. The students had fun on Capping Day.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —You will be thinking me a poor correspondent for not writing sooner. I was 12 years of age on June 29. There is a Children’s Page in the Timaru Herald, and I have joined it. It is very cold jumping out of bed these mornings, but it is not as cold as it used to be. My sister is always telling me she is going to write to you. She takes out a piece of paper and scribbles on it, and then she says she has written to you. She is going to school now, and she knows a few little words off by heart. Love to all and your own dear self.—Yours truly, DOLLY’S FRIEND (Lyalldale). [I should like to receive a page of scribblewriting from your sister, Dolly's Friend. She must be a eweet little girl.—DOT.] * TT ■St Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I am in Standard 111 at echool. We take the Witness, and I am very interested in Dot’s Little Folk page. There are only three of us in Standard 111 at school. We ride to echool on a quiet horse. Love to all and your own dear self. Yours truly SWEET LUANA (Haldane). [Welcome from Haldane, Sweet Luana. Are you ton of Standard HI? How far is it to school frem your place?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I had such a nice letter from Scotch Girl to-day. She is my first correspondent, and we write regularly to each other. If her letter is a day or two overdue, I am always wondering what is wrong. Did you eee the Capping Carnival? I did, and thought it was rather nice, but most people were disappointed with it. I have been expecting a letter from Betty Jo for awhile now. I wonder if there is anything wrong with her or if she has too much to do? Wasn’t that a wonderful flight that American aviator took from New York to Faris? I had a letter recently from a friend in Detroit, and he was telling me all about it. It was so interesting, too, reading it all from one of his own countrymen. Best love to all and your own dear self.—Yours trulv, YORKSHIRE LASS (Dunedin). [Yes, it was a wonderful flight, Yorkshire Lass. I eaw the Capping concert, and thought it very good in places.—DOT.] * * -XDear Dot, —I see by the paper that you had snow in Dunedin. We had no snow, but the weather has been very cold. Since last writing I was at a 21st birthday. They had dancing and games, and I enjoyed myself very much, arriving home at 2.30 a.m. Do you like reading? ' I am reading a book called " Pink Sugar,” and it is very nice. Have you read it? Since last writing to you, I have had five new nieces of music, namely, “ Les Sylphes,” “ Fireflies on Parade.” " Impromptu Mazurk,” ” Arbutus,” and “ Charmeuse.’” I like “Fireflies on Parade” and “ Impromptu Mazurk ” best of all my pieces. I have allowed my hair to grow, and it is now down to my shoulders, and I have put it up. What has happened to 4YA? Ixrve to yourself and all the Little Folk.—Yours truly, NEARLY SEVENTEEN (Invercargill). [I like reading, but have not read the book you mention, Nearly Seventeen. I do not know what has happened to 4YA. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —On Thursday morning, when I managed to crawl out of my warm bed, I said to mum, “ Hurry up and see the hills, they arc white with snow.” The boys wished it were in the town, but we were not so fortunate as all that. I am not quite sure if it is going to be fine or wet this morning. If it is fine we are going on the river, and this afternoon Dad's Daisy is coming to tea. Last night our boy friends took my friend Rosie and me to eee “ What Price Glory? ” It is a beautiful picture, lasting from 8.5 p.m. till 10.5 p.m. It depicts the humour and the pathos of the War. We left home yesterday morning for a river trip, and proceeded to the Antigua street boatsheds. We spent a lovely morning. My two brothers came too. Mummy’s Darling said he would like a-" go ” at rowing. The boys turned us round and Rosie and I had a “go ” at rowing, too. We nearly had curselves in the water the way we had the oars mixed up. We took the tram to the hills in the afternoon, and were equashed like sardines. I did not liave my camera with me or else I wculd have had some snaps. The blow on the hill did us good, because w« came home and had a tea fit for a king. The others all eaid they were cold, and they had their coats on, but I was roasting, and wore no coat. We could eee, in the distance, New Brighton beach and the breakers as plainly as could be to one side of us, and the other side were the Alps fringed by the brown and green of the fields beneath them. A shining strip of water showed us where the Waimakariri pursued its course to the sea. It was a p-norama well worth seeing, but nothing like Dunedin. We managed a walk to Victoria Park and back to the resthouse in what

seemed an interminable space of time, but was only half an hour. We decided to walk down Dyer’s Pass road to the end of Colombo street. It was a good bracing walk, with a keen wind blowing—just as one reads in books. We were soon at the Sydenham Post

Office at 4 p.m., and arrived at town seven

minutes later. My boy friend and I went to the Beresford corner to await Dad's Daisy, who was coming on her first visit to curplace. We are now formally introduced. We have exchanged autographs. After tea we adjourned to the front room, where we spent a nice evening in the firelight glow. The time came all too quickly for her to go, 1 think. To-morrow night Rcsie, my friend, and I are going to the Strand to eee “ Along Came Ruth,” starring Viola Dana. The Champion Chess Player and I have been working out chess problems to-night. We like to see the two pages in the Witness, chess and Dot’s Little Folk page. Love to all and yourself.—Yours truly, XALENCIA RAISIN (Christchurch), [The snow’ was more welcome on the bills dian in the town by most people, Valencia Raisin. You have been having some fine walks.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was very pleased to sec my first letter in print. Lately, we had fun skating on the ice. I had many a tumble, but I did not mind the falls one bit.

We had some snow, too, but the rain came and spoilt it for snowballing. Our winter cow is in, and ehe has tw’in heifer calves. Would you give me names for them please? We have 13 wee pigs about a week old, and they look such tricky things. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear eelf. —Yours truly, JACK-A-DANDY (Wendon Valley). [Call the calves Rona and Romeny, Jack-a-Dandy. I am glad you have not decided to ask me to name the 13 little pigs.—DOT.] * * * ,Dear Dot, —How are you and all the Little Folk this week? 1 was in Dunedin last week-end, but, as the weather was dull and always looking like rain, I did not have a very good time. There were eomc good football matches in Dunedin last Saturday. Goodbye till next week. —Yours truly, THE SILENT SHADOW (Palmerston). [I am quite well, thank you, Silent Shadow, and I trust all the Little Folk are also. Which football matches did you see? —DOT.] * * * Dear Dot, —I am going to enter for “ unison singing ” at our competitions with three other boys. At last year’s competition I entered for poetry, writing, and singing, but came only third in einging. I hope to have better luck this year. I go to my auntie’s for dinner some days, and it is better than having it at school. We are going to play football against Rimu next Friday. When I was coming home from Sunday echool yesterday the chain came off my bicycle and broke two spokes in the wheel and dented the rim lam very interested in " The Chums’ Treasure Hunt,” and I think they are lucky finding the coins.—Yours truly, MISCHIEF MATE (Woodlands).

[Good luck to you in your einging, Mischief Mate. Do you think you will win against Rimu? —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We are living on the farm, and I notice the difference when I have to go to town for groceries. We are milking 10 cows and are sending cream to the factory, which is about half a mile away. I have often seen the butter being made. It takes about two hours from the time the cream is put in the churn til! it is boxed up to be sent away. I have left school now, and am looking for work. I passed my proficiency, and I was very pleased. I go to drill, and I liko going shooting practice. I have not seen a Witness for some time, but I shall take it from my auntie when eh e has finished with it. I go to the pictures every Saturday night, and I am going to see a play next Tuesday night. Mostly all the crops on the hill failed this season, and the farmers are having a bad time. I hope next season will be better. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours trulv. MISCHIEVOUS FRED (Pukekohe). [Tell us all about the butter-making, Mischievous Fred. How often do you go to drill?—DOT.] * «■ e

Dear Dot, —We are once again at Moata’a on the coast for a fortnight, and yesterday morning I woke at 6 o’clock and watched the Tofua steaming into the harbour. The morning was rather a dull one, but the sunrise was splendid, as right round the big grey clouds were little gold frills, and clustering round the gold frills, were little pink and grey fleecy ccuds. Right along between the sea and clouds was a long strip of golden sky, which looked very beautiful. I saw two little boys paddling a canoe which was full of nets. They were going to catch fish. There are a number of small pigs about, and one little black and white one is very tame. It comes to us for pieces of coconut, and likes to eat it from the shell. It is windy, and wc have to keep away from the coconut palms, as the nuts might drop on us. The nut in the husk weighs about 8 or 10 pounds, and drops from a height of 80ft. Yen can imagine what damage it will do. People here have been killed by coconuts falling on them. To-day my father was on the reef, and saw a large shark and five young ones. I received many nice books for my birthday, “ Mary’s Moving Pictures,” “ Timothy Tatters,” “ Lizzie Hepburn,” “ The Two Jungle Books,’’ by Kipling, “ A Doorway in Fairyland,” " Emily Climbs,” ” Ann a House of Dreams,” and two books on “ Girls and Boys of History.’ They were all very nice books. I am doing crochet, and have finished a fancy bag and a tie. I am now doing a d’oyley. My little brother had his big toe hurt in his bicycle, and the nail came off. A new one is growing on. Love to all and your own dear self. —Youra truly, HIBISCUS (Samoa). [Your sunrises must be splendid in Samoa, Hibiscus. If a coconut fell on your little pig it might kill him.—DOT.] * * *

Dear Dot, —We are having nice rains here now, and, although the ground is very wet and we are not able to go out in the car, we are glad to have rain to make the crops grow. For the last five days we have had nearly an inch of rain, and the days are very cold. The crops look nice and green now, and there will soon be plenty of feed for the stock. Perhaps you would like to hear about our farm, eo I will tell you.' Our 960 acre property is situated 14 miles west of IVarracknabeal, and nine miles east of Tarranyurk. The country throughout this area is far-famed fcr its magnificent wheat-growing qualities, and, with scientific methods of cultivation and the adoption of modern ’improvements, we have had exceptionally successful results. About 350 acres of wheat on fallow is eown each season, and, in addition, 50 acres of oats for hay, and lucerne sown amongst the oats for summer green feed for the stock. Abundance of water is supplied by a channel which fills two large dams, about 4500 yards in each, and water is laid on to all the buildings. Our weather-board nine-roomed house is electrically lighted, and is surrounded with orange and lemon trees. We have a barn 60ft by 20ft where we store

Seed, wheat, and manure, with a machinery shed 20ft wide on three aides of it. A large hayehed, roofed with iron 60ft by 24ft, holds enough hay for 12 months for the horses, and is built close to a 21-stall stable, and chaff house 32ft by 20ft, where the 24 working h'jises are stabled. The Clydesdales my father purchased recently have a separate stable of six loose boxes, 12ft by 14ft, with a gang-way between them of 18ft. Adjoining these bozca are several small exercise paddocks of about from two to eix acres in each, and they are sown each year with oats and barley to provide green feed for th e Clydesdales. There ia also, joining these small paddocks, another stable used mostly for weaning foals and feeding yearlings. The Clydesdales we have noware “ Elashdale,” “Well’s Mescal,” “ Musa,” and “ Queen of the Ring,” all having been imported from Scotland a few years ago, also “ Overslade,” a three-year-old which my father has recently imported from Scotland. In tb.e blacksmith shop, everything is driven with engine power, including the blower, saw-bench, buzzer, emery-wheels, drills and lathe. The slaughter house, which has' been built recently, is flyproof. It has a false floor in it, with plenty of water laid on, so that it can be kept clean. The horse-dip has a big yard around it so that the horses can easily be driven into the dip. The liquid used is like phenyle, and the horses stand knee-deep in it to cure the itch on therr legs. Some horses are very frightened of going into the dip, and often try to jump out of the yard. This causes a little excitement. Our horse-dip is open to the public for a week in March, then again about September, and we charge la Gd per horse. Love to all.—Yours truly, WAXFLOWER (Victoria, Australia).

[You must have a very interesting farm, Waxflower. Can you tell us anything about the country round your farm?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was very pleased to see my first letter in print. We have had very rough weather this last week. We had a few snow storms, but the snow did not lie very long. All the surrounding mountains, including the Hokonuis have a coating of enow. I should really say the mountains have had several coatings. I was at a Bible class social on Friday evening. I had a good time considering I was a stranger to that part. There was a big crowd there, and hardly sitting room, although the Knapdale hall is not small. Visitors from Waikaka, Waikaka VaUey, Otama, Gore, and Mandeville were present. I am just home from a euchre party. It is about 11.15 p.m. I scored four games, and- I have to cut for booby. I did not wait to hear the results, but I know there are four in for it. One of the secretaries is cutting for me. I shall have to wait for the morning to hear the result. During the card playing a terrible storm struck up. There were heavy showers of hail, too. You do not know how I am writing this. Shall I tell you? Yes, I shall. The pad is resting on mv knee, and I am sitting on the bed with the inkpot beside me, resting up against my small suitcase. Best wishes to all and your own dear eelf.—Yours truly, HENRY VIII’s SISTER (Mandeville).

[Your writing is good for such an undignified position, Henry VIII’s Sister. I wonder what the “ booby ” results will be. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I become one of your Little Folk, please? I am nine years of age, and I am in Standard I at school. I did not go to school to-day as it was too wet. There are not many going to our school. Did you like school, Dot? We have had snow hem last week, and we all had to trit very close to the fire and keep warm, as it was. so very cold. We have two dogs, nice big black ones. We have not a cat. I'd like a little cat for a pet. I had a pet rabbit, but one night the wind blew the lid off its cage and the dogs killed it. I had another one, and it run away. Best wishes to all and your own dear self.—-Yours truly, EV. (Otago). [Welcome Ev. You seem to have bad, hard luck with your rabbits. I enjoyed school very much when I was little. —DOT.] •K- -K- •K’ Dear Dot, —May I be a member of your happy band? 1 am 12 years of age, and am in Standard IV at school. We had a large snowstorm last Wednesday, and we nrs still having very rough weather. I have two miles to walk to school, so I enjoy when the weather is fine. Live and best wishes to all.—Yours truly, TROUSER BUTTON (Winton). [Welcome, Trouser Button. How long do you take to walk to school?—DOT.] * * * Dear Dial, —In last week’s Witness, 1 noticed some of my correspondents letters, and they reminded me that it was time I, too, wrote to the pages Do you like reading books? It is one of my favourite pastimes. I am reading one written by L. M. Montgomery, and it is very interesting. Mary the Wild Swan of Fairyland and I went to the football tournament in Balfour on Saturday. We also went jo the dance at night, and had a. lovely time. Last week it was snowing, the first we have had for quite a while. What has become of Inkpot and The Flower of the Family? I have not seen a letter in the Witness from them f°r a long time now. They have been holding quite a few dances in the new hall at Balfour, and they all turned out a success. I have been to them all. There on e on the 29th of this month in aid of the tennis club. Kind regards to all. —Yours truly, PEGGY O’NEILL (Balfour).

t readin "> Peggy O’Neill. You like L. Al.-Montgomery’s books, do vou? You !laving a goad th “e dancing.

Dear Dot, I have made some verv nice pen-friends through the page. I have a new correspondent now, and she writes very nice interesting letters. A Little Nurse G-irl and Deerfoot the Rabbiter were here last night, and we spent the evening playing ludo and hide-the-thimble. We had <»reat fnn. . Nurse Girl said the full moon was affecting both Deerfoot the Rabbiter and me because we were laughing and fooling so much, and I replied that it was better to laugh than to cry. I am going to Milton on Tuesday for a ride, so I hope it is a mce day. It is a lovely day here to-day so if it is as nice on Tuesday it will do. Te Ari took a snap of me the other day, and a friend of mine aeked me if I would <rive him one. I told him I wouldn't like’ to flee him collapse altogether. This same person is very anxious to find out my nom 7. P l,n,e - hut I won’t tell him because 1 think he knows already, and is just seeing n I will tell. If he sees this letter he will know instantly whose it is. I rode to church last Sunday, and there wcr e only about half a dozen there altogether, inclmiing the minister. It was a very miserable <T?v m'-’y and damp. I caught up on A Little’ Nurse vrin coming home, and gave her a ride.

We both rode the one horse, and I am sure we must have looked funny. Deerfoot tho Rabbiter and his brother were there, too, and they laughed at us. Nurse Girl and I were helpless with laughter, eo we were all in a bad way. The carpenters are working on the school at present, and they have made a big improvement. Some men had been topping the school trees, and they left the school grounds in a mess, branches and trees lying everywhere, over fences and hedges, too. When the architect was there, he complained about it, and they have to clean up the mess. It looks much better already, although t-hey are only about half fimslied. Love to all and your own dear self.— lours truly, BOB’S SWEETHEART (Milton). [The tree-toppers should not leave the branches lying about, Bob’s Sweetheart. A good correspondent is a good friend.—vOT.J AUTOS. Bill's Brother (Harold Lovejoy, Canning street, Gore) would like to correspond with Deerfoot tho Indian Chief. Will he please write first and soon?

Smiler (R. Morrison, P.O. Box 170, Greymouth) wishes any Christchurch Little hoik to write to her.

Boadicea (Ruth Couchman, care of Mr J. Fenton, Menzies Ferry, Southland) wishes to correspond with A Taranaki Cow-Puncher and any other Little Folk 20 to 21. She also wishes her other correspondents to note her change of address Ukulele Dream Girl (Violet Johnson, Momona, via Allanton) wishes to correspond with A Little Lush Nlaid, Letty Jo and. any other Little Folk willing. Will they please write first and soon?

Nearly Seventeen (Margaret Denton' 215 Gala st, Invercargill) would like to correspond with Valencia Raisin and any other Dot’s Little Folk from the ages 17 to 12 years Will they please write first? Will her other correspondents write again, please? Leggy O’Neill (Tot Larsen, Box 8, Balfour) wishes to correspond with Dad’s Daisy Betty Jo Meadow Sweet, Mother’s Pride, and any c lt r‘> k W . lllin o; Will they please write nrst? She also wishes Ninkeypoo to write agam, as her address has been lost. Ho Pkins, 57 Craigleith st, N.E Valley, Dunedin) wishes to correspond with Mlustier, Rex Roy, and any other .kittle 1' oik willing between 16 and 20 years of age. Will they please write first and soon?

Football Captain (May Friend, Box 34 Ranturly) wishes to correspond with Thraldom. Gordon, and The Silent Shadow. Will they please write first ?

Mothers Pride (Irene Ross, Ronaldscr- st, Palmerston) wishes to correspond with any Little Folk 16 years of age. Please, will they write first? Ginger II (Eileen Ross, Eden Terrace, Menzies Ferry, Southland) wishes to correspond with Dante's Beatrice, Pink Blossom, and any Little Folk between 12 and 14 A Footballer’s Darling (Beth Hanrahan, Box 9, Banfurly) wishes to correspond with Nunny, A Hebrew Maid, and The Silent Shadow. Will they please write first? Dante’s Beatrice (Josephine MacPherson, Herbert, North Otago) wishes to correspond with Sheila Fleet wood, Rangimoana, and Norah Hayseed. Will they please write first and soon?

Bobs Sweetheart (I. May M’Laren, care of M’Laren Bros., Union st, Milton) would like her correspondents to note that she is back at the old address. Would Persephine please write soon? She would also like to correspond with Cuticura Girl and any Waiwera, Little Folk willing. Would they please write first and soon if willing-?

Miss Mee Pinney (Mary Pilgrim, Paretai, Kaitangat-a) would like to correspond with ’alenciaNßaisin and Whirlwind P’addv Will they please write first and soon? ' Charmary (Lottie Wilson, Otekaike via PVU a [-\ W \ S ? eS -, t >° corr63 P° n d with any Little fim l aL tO s^n'? !hnS - Wili they pl - se