Dot's Little Folk

Otago Witness, Issue 3958, 21 January 1930, Page 72

Dot's Little Folk

JL<x Ipoxidurexted (July 16, 1666.

Dot invites short letters from her young friends throughout the Dominion on matters of interest to themselves, the result of their observations In the animal world, descriptions of anything they are interested in. of the district in which they live, of their school and home life, holiday trips, etc. The letters are to be written by the little folk themselves, and addressed, " Dot, care of Editor Otago Witness.” Dot’s Little Folk's Badge, with pin, for use as a brooch, obtainable on application to Dot. Trice, 2s 6d in stamps or postal notes. Auto. Cards are obtainable from Dot, Otago Witness Office, Dunedin. Price, 9d for 25.

billy bear.

(Special for the Otago Witness.) I.XIV. Perhaps you remember Mummie Bear saying to me that she was so comfoi table at our farmhouse that she might not go home when we went. Well, when it came to parking up (the famous - Flour ” Show being, as a matter of fact, the day before we had to leave) Poserna ry and 1 decided that we would s::y nothing to Mummie Bear, because, after all. she was very happy in her tent at the bottom of the field, and the farmer's I wife had taken a fancy to the Bear family—as she called Mummie and I Daddy Bear and their troop of babies. ( Billy and Fluffy, if you please, were, in her mind, part of Ol’lt family!) On the morning of the day we were going homo, as 1 was watching the boxes being sent off, Mummie Bodgers Bear strolled up and said: " It's wet here in the winter! ” “ Perhaps it is, Mummie Bear," 1 said, “ but then, every where’s wet sometimes in winter, isn't it?” She sniffed a bit and then said to me: ‘■Got a spare box, my dear?” “ I have NOT,” I said, “ in fact I don't know' how I managed to get everything in those! ” (And I didn't, for Rosej ary and Billy and Fluffy had collected such a lot of stuff' —just as you do when you're on holiday, 1 expect—that I was quite bewildered when 1 came to pack. We seemed to be taking home 10 times as much as we brought.) “ I'd have liked a box if you had one,” said Mummie Bear, somewhat confidentially. ” because it might be wet in the -winter and then of course 1 should come back to you." “ Would you? ” I said, thanking goodness that the winter was quite a long way away yet; and then because the poor old thing seemed to be waiting for it. I added: “That would be nice! ” “ Oh, yes.” Mummie Bear assured me. “I shan't forget you, my dear! ” (I thought to myself: “I wish you would!") I will tell you about our arrival home next week, and what we found there. It was something even worse than the Bear family!

LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLK.

Motto. —We write for the benefit of others, not for ourselves. Dear Dot, —I have enjoyed reading the Gid Writers’ letters in the last Otago Witness. What a large mail of letters you must have received before Old Writers' Week, and how proud you must have felt at the response! ' Christmas Day was not a very tine day here, but the New Year was beautifully tine. An outboard motor bdat regatta was held on New Year's Day at Moetap’i Bay near here. The weather being so tine drew in consequence a large attendance, which resulted in a very successful meeting. I did not go. The regatta which was also held at Picton proved a great success. There are large numbers of holiday-makers ftom the towns and cities visiting the Kenepuru Sounds at present. The accommodation houses, in consequence, are doing a busy trade. The tourists must have a very jolly time at the Sounds, especially when the weather remains sunny and bright. My brother ami I have been in bathing nearly every day lately, but I do not think we will be going to-day, as there is a very cold wind blowing. It should not be cold in the water, but it makes me feel shivery to think of being in a bathing costume. We have six little ducklings about 10 days old. They are pretty little tilings, but they are very greedy. It is curious to see them swimming arevnd in the water. They look just

like tiny balls of fluff. We have a hen sitting on a dozen eggs. As she has been sitting nearly a week now, there remains

but two weeks to wait before the chicks come out. The calves have all grown large and fat. but we still give milk to most of them. Judging by the way they rush to the buckets, and butt at them when they are empty, they enjoy it more now that they are grown than when they were tiny. They are all very tame, and my brother likes to pet them. Best wishes for the new year to you and all the Little Folk. - Yours truly. PELOROUS JACK (Broughton Bay). [Our letter box had to be cleared verv frequently during the Ohl Writers’ Week. Pelorous Jack. 1 was very pleased when 1 saw the response made to my appeal. The Kenepurii Sounds are very beautiful. 1 have heard. 1 hope that some day I shall see them. It is much too cold in Dunedin just now to even think of bathing. There is nothing more charming than fluffy little ducks and chickens. Thank you for your kind wishes.--DOT [

Dear Dot, I have left school, and 1 am now working at Minaret Station. Shearing is just, finished. This is a very lonely place, yet I rather like being here. 1 spent a very lonely Christmas, ami felt sad because 1 could not go to mv home. The other day a tree 13(>ft high fell over a yard of sheep, and killed about 90 of them. The boat brings the mail here every Monday. Love to you and all your Little Folk.—Yours truly. HALF COAT (Minaret Station).

[I am pleased that you like your place of work. Half (oat. This being your first Christmas away from home would naturally make you feel very lonely. Never mind. Half Coat, think of the holiday that is coming along directly when you shall be able to see your people and spend a week or two with them! For a tree 130 ft in length to fall on a sheep yard is certainly a tragedy for the sheep. What caused the tree to fall?—DOT.]

Dear Dot.- Dad is shearing his sheep at present. 1 enjoyed reading the Ohl Writers' letters, especially ones describing travels to different places. I am to go into Standard A'l this year, so will my sister. Princess Blue Eyes. 1 received two Sunday school prizes. Their names are " i’he Oxford Annual for (■iris, and " I he Gohlen Road. I received one school prize called “ Billie Bradley at Treasure Cove." Have you read these books.' 1 have two correspondents, whose nom de plumes are Jolly Glad and A Popular School Girl. 1 think they both write interesting letters. For Christmas 1 received a pair of garters, three handkerchiefs, a writing pad and envelopes, and two ribbons. I am not going for a holiday this year, as we have an aunt ami a cousin staying with us. Last year we went to Colae Bay for a fortnight. Our flower garden is rather good just now. We have some sweet peas in flower. Kind regards to al! the Little Folk ami your own dear self.— Yours truly. -MAH) MARION OF SHERWOOD I Ba h our i. I AA hen one is unable to travel the next best thing*is to read of other people's travels. Maid Marion ot Sherwood. I have read ” I he Golden Road. ’ ami found it interesting. My .attic Folk must have been especially good last year. Santa ( Laus appears to have had a busy time. Thank you very much lor the charming card. You draw verv well. -DOT. I A- ¥ ¥ Dear Dot.-Old Writers’ AYeek is past, ami the letters were well worth readin" Baby Face, Red Hot Poker, and Thistle Muff have written some interesting letters to me. I received a number of lovely ( hristmas presents. I am just reading a book my cousin gave me entitled, “ Sally at School. Have you read it? I went to Oamaru for a few days at ( hristmas time, and T enjoyed myself very much. I went suri-bathing one day for the first time this season. Next day I was all sunburned, and could hardly move. I received a book called " Six Little New Zealanders." also a medal at school. Much love to all, the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Tours truly. MERRY MEG (Dunedin). [I have not read “Sally at School." Merry .Meg. Have you read “ Sally in Rhodesia?’ It is a very amusing book. Oamaru is a pleasant place in which to spend a holiday. One has to guard against sunburn when one goes swimming at the beginning of the season.—DOT.] * ¥ ¥ Dear Dot.-—lt is a long time since I wrote to you. AA e finished shearing our sheep to-day. AA e had about 300 to do. AVe have six calves to feed night and morning. I have had a very bad cold. AA e have not l>een out at all since our (hristmas holidays commenced. Three weeks of the holidays are now past. My sister passed her proficiency. She is going back to school. There will be only nine children going to our school this year, three of the previous year’s pupils having left. AVe have an old cat that has just had five kittens. AA’e gave two of them away. AVe are keeping the other three. The poor mother cat went away and ' brought home six more kittens, so this

makes 11 kittens that we are looking after. AVe have two old cats. AVe have four dogs. Their names are Mick, Fan. Stocks ami Ginger. AA’e had five dogs, but the horse tramped on one. My mother was an Old AV liter. 1 am 10 years of age. but will soon be 11. AVe take the Otago AVitness every week. 1 like reading the Little Folk’s letters. Your page is growing every week. 1 received scales, a post office, and some wee things for Christmas. My little sister is 22 months old, ami she is a dear wee thing. AA’ith best wishes to all.—Yours truly, SILKAVORM (Catlin*). [A on will be glad that shearing is over, Silkworm. Three hundred sheep takes a little time to shear. Do you like to feed the calves? Yes, the holidays are soon over. Would you like to attend a school where there are 400 pupils? Did the cat bring back six kittens when she found that the other two were missing? Eleven kittens takes some looking after. Have you named them yet? 1 suppose Santa Claus did not forget little sister.—DOT.] n* rF Dear Dot. —Our school holidays have now begun, and all the children are .n--joying themselves. You will be pleased to hear that 1 came second in class marks with 1012 marks. The name of my prize is "The School Girls’ Annual.” It is very interesting. Have you read it? My uncle and aunt are coming to live with us for a while. I have not been in for many bathes as yet. as the weather has been unfavourable. It will not be long now til 1 dad arrives home. He has been away for three long years. Love to all.— -Yours truly, YOUNG HOCKEY PLAYER (AA'aitahuna ».

lAA e all enjoy holidays, even “grownups. ’ Young Hockey Player. Congratulations upon gaining such high marks. Next year you must endeavour to come first in your class. I have not read this year's “ School Girls’ .Annual.” AVhich story do you like best? Y'ou will be pleaseil to have your father home with you. The weather is certainly too cold for bathing.— DOT.]

Dear Dot.--As it is holiday time 1 thought I would write to you a few lines to let you know that I am still alive. I j hope you are well. 1 was in bed with in- I fluenza tor two weeks. 1 was glad to leave my bed. Silkworm was in bed a week with a bad cold. She is better now. You will be pleased to know that 1 gained my proficiency. 1 am going back to school next year. Mum says I am too young to leave school yet. 'The flowers in our garden are very late in blooming this year. Santa Claus called hero and left some ot his bundles. He left Silkworm and Late Blossom a stocking and enough cloth to make a frock. lie left me a work-box. material for a dress, a bar of chocolate, and a purse containing three pencils, a pen, a rubber, and ruler My little sister received a porridge plate, a jack-in-the-box. and a bar of chocolate. AA e are milking three cows, and feeding six calves. The calves eat porridge. Dad sold 11 of the cows about two months ago. You will know about the Manuka wreck. 1 here were bags of flour, lemons ami onions strewn along the beach. Our New Tear Day picnic was held on Tahakopa Beach. It was not a success, because it rained for most ot the sports meetings here, except the Maclennan sports, which were held last year on Labour Day. AVith a beautiful large display of handiwork this year, we sold 45 articles, for which we received nearly £5. 1' think we did well. The farmers have not been able to have their sheep shorn yet. because of the rain. AA’e have over 300 sheep. Our cat went away ami left three kittens, but they were able to drink. Their mother used to bring them rabbits which they will miss. Our hens have been laying well. AA e have a dozen liens and a dozen ducks. AVe still have plenty of eggs. AA ith best wishes.—A ours truly NEW ZEALAND FERNERY (Gatlins i.

[lnfluenza has an annoying habit of timing his visit at a most inopportune moment. New Zealand Fernery. I am very pleased to hear that you passed your profieieney. You must endeavour to study so well next year that you will se-

cure a scholarship. The wet weather experienced of late is responsible for the late blooming ot flowers. The wreck of the Manuka caused a great deal of distress to many, many people. Did von see the lemons lying on the beach.- 1)0’1’. [

Dear Dot,—l enjoyed reading the (lid writers letters. Some of them were very interesting. Ou New Year’s Day 1 went to Pieton, where 1 enjoyed myself immensely. At dinner-time a party of uwent down to Double Bay. A 1 iinieii called the Ramona conveyed Us to the spot after which it left for a place called the Grove. AA’e spent an enjoyable time there. Some of us carved our names on a tree. At about three o'clock we went for a stroll up the hill, and when we came back we lay down on the sand ami went to sleep. AA'hen we woke np we were al! sunburnt. The launch was to call at five o clock for us to enable us to catch the last train home. However. it talk'd to arrive. Two hours jater we were beginning to feel a bit desperate, so we started to play games to pass away the time. The launch came back for us at halt-past seven, ami by this time the tain was coming down in torrents. On out journey back w e all sang “ Show Me the AA ay to Go Home.’’ AA'hen we arrived at I’ieton all the buses ami trains had left, so we had to ring up for a bus. AA’e arrived home that night at half-past ten. AA'hile we were at Double Bay we watched the AA'ahine go back to Wellington. 1 wish you ami all your Little Folk a prosperous new year.—Yours truly, PUSS PUSSY (Marlborough). I Double Bay is a delightful place at which to spend a day's outing, Puss Pussy. It must have been very annoying to find yourselves stranded as you were" Tour return journey, however, would be a most happy one. The AA’ahine is a very up-to-date boat. Have you ever been on her? She is a verv comfortable boat to travel on—DOT.]

Dear Dot.—l am now working in the country, and like it very much. Nearly every person here is suffering with a bail cold, myself included. I spent a verv enjoyable time during the Christmas holidays. At this place I milk four cows. I like the work. The weather has been too wet for shearing. It has kept the men back. I was home last week-end. and went

to the pictures on the Saturday night. ! t Love to all and your own dear self.— i Yours trulv, f ' HAPPY SUSIE (AV inton.) ( [Colds are not confined to country H people. Happy Susie. Many people in this | city are in just the same plight. AA’ork I ’ does not appear to be work wlmn the j ' duties are pleasing to do. Yes, the un- , I seasonable weather is holding up shearing I all over Otago and Canterbury. It is | ‘ pleasant to be able to go to one’s home . for a week-end when one works awav from 1 it.—DOT.] ¥ ¥ ¥ Dear Dot. —One of my New Y'ear resolutions is to write to you more regularly than I have been doing in the past. A¥e have all enjoyed reading the Old Writers’ letters. I am going to High : School this year. I hope to work well there. Does not the time fly? It seems only yesterday that it was the beginning of 1928. On New Year's Day we went to the beach, and at night to the pictures. I have just had my birthday party. I [ enjoyed it very much. 1 was third in j my class at school, ami second for j sewing, and received a book for class work called. “The New' Zealand Girls’ Own Annual,’’ and a box of handkerchiefs for sewing. Unluckily I was unable to get to the break-up because we were moving. Our prizes were brought to us by a friend. Kind regards to all the Little Folk and lour own dear self.—Yours trulv. HUMOUR (Otago). [Some of the Ohl AVriters' letters were certainly very interesting. Humour. 'The desire to work well is half the battle of i success. Y'es, the tifne does fly. And the older one becomes the quicker the year seems to fly. You have done very well at school this year. A box of handkerchiefs was a very practical gift to receive for a sewing prize. How disappointing to have missed being present at the break-up! — DOT.j Dear Dot. I would like to become a member of the Little Folk, if you will have me. 'These last few days have been very enjoyable. AVe have now finished all I our farm work with the exception of the shearing, which we shall commence in a [ few weeks’ time. AA’here did you spend I I Christinas? 1 was asked to go to I Dunedin with my sister, but mum was ill I in bed. so I stayed at home to do the house work. 1 was at Bluff on New Y ear's [ Day. ami although it was windy at times I I enjoyed myself. Our annual picnic is to be held on January 22. 1 am hoping we shall have a fine day for it. My cousin is away on holiday at Palmerston North at 1 ' the present time. 1 hope he enjdvs it. AA e have now become used to aeroplanes. 1 They have been flying over us here of 'ate 1 very frequently. How 1 should love to "o ; in one to see far below me the towns ami countries as I flew along. AVoiild it not be thrilling? AA’e have made both gooseberry and black currant jam. ami 1 both taste well. My sister lias a camera. • She took the last snap of the film to-day. ■ I hope it will develop well. Have you had any gooseberries, raspberries, black ■ I currants or strawberries to eat this year? ■ j -Yours truly. *5 NIGELLA (Southland). ( | lAA elcoine. Nigella. Yes, the weather I,' is more agreeable. .As (’hristmas is my s busiest time 1 was unable to leave the ( [ city. Never mind dear, mother will not .always be ill. Your friend may possibly j renew the invitation at a time when you t . J shall be a’ole_ to take advantage of it. ~ ■ l‘almer.-.ton North is in the centre of some wonderful scenerv. Have you made any strawberry jam this season? 1 ate t some of our own strawberries on Christ- .’ mas Day. I have still to sample rasp- ’’ berries, black currants, and gooseberries.— . DGl'.l

Dear pot. As it is a good many months since ] wrote to the page I think it is about time I sent along a few lines. Old AA riters AA eek has come ami gone. 1 suppose there would be a great many letters. Last Sunday we went to Pembroke for a while, then on to Lake Hawea ami down the Hawea River, arriving home at (1.30 p.m. after a good trip. 1 here was a dame held here the Fridav alter New Year. 1 went and enjoyed myselt very mueh. AA e have t isitors with us at. present, my aunt and cousins from Bluff. 'I he stone fruit is beginning to ripen, so we will be busy picking fruit or the next few months. The hothouse

tomatoes are late in ripening this vear Dad ami my brother left fur Hawea on Friday to spend a week-end fishing. AA e are hoping that they will catch many fish. I had a letter from Irresistible the other night. 1 have nitm Little-Folk pen friends now. Since my last letter to you we have had the electric light installed ami an iron, and a motor to drive the separator. I iiis saves a good deal ot work. Kind regards to all the Little Folk ami yourself. Yours truly. LADA ( LARK E (< eutral Otago).

[I do like t<> hoar fairly frequently from my Little Folk. Lady Clarice. 1 know the locality of Pembroke ami Lake Hawea very well It is one of tin' most charming spots to spend a holiday in. Have you a large orchard? If the weather is favourable ymir dad and brother should have some tine sport. AVill you let me know in your next letter what luck they lunl? I'Jeetricit v is a labour-saver in one’s house.— DOT.]

Dear Dot.— AA’e have Iwon experieneing very unsettled weather lately. It is not like summer, is it? Quite a number of visitors again patronised the boarding house's here, though many more people cancelled their liookings because of the weather. Brown-eyed Alice did not come home for ( hristmas Day I read a number of the Old AVriters’ letters. Brow n-eyed Alice forwarded to me ahe Blushing Maid's letter. She is leaving the Nugget Point School. She was my teacher for nearly 18 months. I feel sure that her pupils will miss her. as she always spoke so kindly to them all. I did not go anywhere for my holidays this vacation. The lighthouse keepers were kept busy during the tine weather escorting the people through the lighthouse I went to the sports on New Year's Day. Although the day was wet. I enjoyed myself. 1 here was a large number of people present. Nugget Lass is home again All her friends are very pleased. I am sure no one would care to have had her experience. The Manuka came to a sail end at Long Point, diil it not? A quantity of cargo was washed up on the beaches. I was glad when I knew all

the people were saved. 'Two of the fish: ing boats from the Nuggets went down to the scene of the wreck the following day. One ot the boats returneil with two men. One was badly injured and had to go to Baleiutha Hospital. 'The Balclutha station was crowded when the train arrived with ail the shipwrecked people. The poor souls were all very grateful to the Balclutha people for tin: clothing and food which they supplied to them. Chocolate Fish writes a very interesting letter. Love to all the Little Folk ami your own dear self.—Yours trulv, SEA SHORE LASSIE (Nugget Bay). [The inclement weather has upset many arrangements decided upon by those desirous of going on holidays. Sea Shore Lassie. Pupils always regret the departure of a sympathetic teacher. To lie in a wreck is certainly an unenviable experience. It was indeed fortunate that no lives were lost. Yes. I have heard numerous people who were unfortunate enough to be on the Manuka when she came to grief express their gratitude for the kindly manner in which they were treated. DOT.] ¥ ¥ ¥ Dear Dot. — Y’ou will be thinking that I did not intend to write to you again. I have to confess that 1 have been too lazy to write. However, I shall make a fresh start for the New Year. AA’e have had very unsettled weather here for a long time. I have eight pet lambs, and their names are Peter, Billy. Nick. Timothy, Nippy, Nancy. Pansy, and Brownie. I have a large family, have 1 not? They are fed twice a day. Shearing was finished here about a week ago. The shearers have gone away. 1 wish, you and all the Little Folk prosperity and happiness.—-Yours truly. AVESTERN SUNSET (Kurowl. [I did think that you had forgotten me, AA’estern Sunset. I trust that your good resolution to write frequently to the page will lie kept. 'The weather his been very unsettled all over Otago. You have a very large family. AATiieh lambs do you like best? Your parents are more for- | t.nnate than many farmers who have sheep Ito shear. Many have been unable t<> gel | on with the shearing on account ot the weather. Thank you b>r your good wishes.- DOT.! Dear Dot. AA’e held our annual school concert List AA’ednesday. It was a sne-es.-. ! Ihe weather was very cold. It had been raining ail day. I sat for my proficiency.

and 1 passed. As I came third for the dux medal. I received a prize. It was one year’s subscription to the town library. Although the water in the river is warm. I have not been in for a swim. AA e live close to the river. Usually at this time of the year the water is quite warm. AA’e have finished our shearing. AA’e have four pet lambs. AA’e used to have eiulit lambs, but we soon found mothers ior them. The river was high on Monday. All the sheep had to be shifted on to higher land for safety. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear sell. - Yours trulx. BLOSSOM IN( I (HERR)’ (Otautau). [ 1 am pleased to hear that you have gained your profieieney. Blossoming Cherry. One year’s subscription to a lending library is a splendid prize to have secured. You must make the best of your opportunity to read good literature; This summer is an exceptionally erratic one. Have you named the pet lambs? Eight pet lambs must have treated a considerable amount <>f work for \ou. - DOT.] ¥ ¥ ¥■ Dear Dot.—AA'hen 1 saw that the Old AA'riters' letters totalled 91 I was ■.erv pleased. I wished, however, that they had reached the 100 total. Did you not? Evers lett-T contributed was interesting, if Harold had only written and told us some of liis adventures. On December 12 we vent to ACaimate to AA'irths circus. Some of the stunts performed by the acrobats were wonderful. AA’hen an elephant held its trunk out for peanuts. I iiad to put some in both holes of his trunk, or In* would not draw it back. The ]>olar bears were wonderful. They could perform their tricks very well. There was a man in the circus 7ft Tin in height, ami liis age was 21 \ <*ars. I did not like to look at him. as his legs were so thin. In the show ■was a tiny wee man who was 45 yeais of age. 1 don't suppose many people in Dunedin visited the circus because Dunedin was not in the tour. Is an exhibition to be | held in AA’ellington this .t ear? 1 fancied | that there was to be one. but so far I i have not heard anything about it AA' * I have not started shearing jet. because we I cannot obtain any shearers. After being I ill in lied for a week I was glad to get up. I I was ill in bed for New Years Day. so this was not a te:y goo 1 beginning, was it? I received thrie school prizvs this year. on? of which—a pink manicure set —was awarded for sewing. The prizes given 1 st year were not as good as those given the year before. Our annual school picnic, which is to be held on February 6. max’ be held at Timaru. I hope so. for I like Tiinartt. AA’e are having our holidays from •music. I am glad of a rest after attending twice a week for a whole year at Kurow. I attended the Kurow school concert on December IS). It was verj good. They had been reheat sing for two months. On the same day we contributed several songs at our break-up. Our gooseberries are nearly all picked. There sre a few wild bushes growing about here from which we are able to pick a few berries. There will soon be in this distrii t 1200 men working on the Public AA'orks. Love to all the Little Folk ami vottr own dear self. —Y'ours truly. LADY' MARY (South Canterbury''.

[Of course. Lady Mary, I should have been delighted had 100 letters real lied me. Nevertheless. I am very pleased at the wonderful response to my appeal. Perhaps Harold will appear next year. The circus is the place to see startling aerobatic feats. Elephants are very fon I of peanuts. I once saw a man Bft 2in in height. He. too. was very thin. I have not heard of a proposed exhibition in AA’ellington. If one leads an active life one dislikes a long stay in bed. The pink manicure set should look nice on vour dressing table. Tintarn possesses a beautiful beach. —DOT.]

Dear Dot.--! hope you enjoyed youf Christmas holidays. AA’e spent a very quiet (hristmas this year, our only visitors being my married sister, my

brother-in-law, and my little nephew. The weather about that time was showery, so conditions outside were unpleasant. My sisters, two cousins and I motored to Riverton on Boxing Day. A few showers of rain fell, nevertheless we had an enjoyable time. I took several snaps while I was there, but so far they have not been developed. One snap is of a visiting aeroplane, so I am eagerly awaiting to see the result. J have been keeping house this last fortnight for my cousin. I like it very much. They made me make some jam, and as it was my first attempt I felt a little bit nervy; however, the jam turned out very well. I was very pleased. This week they have decided to let me attempt some strawberry jam. I am hoping that 1 shall have the same luck as I had with the gooseberries. Well, 1 will tell you what Santa Claus gave me for Christmas —a snap album, a camera, a pair of silk stockings, a powder puff and little bag, a box containing [scent, powder and soap, and a book. “ The Eternal Challenge,” which T have (since read with much enjoyment. I did enjoy reading the Old Writers’ letters. I think they are so interesting, especially the letters from those who have travelled. Love to all. —Yours truly. PANSY PAN (Longbush).

[I did enjoy the Christmas festivities. Pansy- Pan. although 1 was unable to leave the city. Light showers will never spoil an outing. Was the aeroplane in flight, or did you snap it while it was on the ground? To make jam well is not an easy task even for an experienced housewife. Did you feel proud of your success? Were you as lucky with the strawberries? 1 think Santa Claus had a very soft corner in his heart for you this Christinas. — DOT.]

Dear Dot. —I have for a 1< mg time taken a very keen interest in the Little Folks page. At last I have plucked up courage to ask if I may become one of your many contributors. I am 17 years of age. I live near Waimate. Do you like reading? I seldom read, but I am fond of sewing and fancywork. My favourite hobby is photography, though 1 like dancing and bicycle riding almost ps much. Do you play tennis? I do not play. 1_ prefer the winter game of basket pall.—Yours truly.

IMPH—M (Waimate)

to our band, Iniph-ni. I am Very fond of reading. Sewing and fancywork are two good accomplishments for a girl to possess. Photography is a very interesting, though an expensive, hobby. I am fond of tennis, though I have very little spare time to indulge my taste in this direction. Basket ball is a fascinating winter sport.—DOT.]

Dear Dot. —May I become one of vour happy band? 1 am 12 years of age'. I am in Standard VI. I have a little pup. Would you give me a name for it? Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Yours truly. COM BOY JAMES (Kaka Point).

[Certainly, you may join. Cowboy James. You will notice that I have made a slight alteration to your name. You arc young to be in Standard Y'l. How old is your pup? Is he a sheep dog, or a fox terrier? Do you think puppy would respond to Toss? I once owned a beautiful dog which I named Toss. —DOT.]

Dear Dot. —May I become a member of your’baud of Little Folk? I am 15 years of age. At present I do not attend school. T help my mother at home. Might I have the undersigned for my nom de plume? I have been enjoying the letters of the Old Writers. They are so varied and interesting. The letters sent bv those who have not contributed for some years are especially good. I suppose one should not complain about the weather.—Y'oui s ti uly,

GLOBETROTTER (Dunedin)

[I am pleased to have you. Globetrotter. Y es.~ you may have the nom de plume. Notice how nom de plume is spelt! It is composed of three French words: nom. which means name, de meaning of. and plume, pen. In other words, pen name.—DOT.]

Dear Dot.- One clear summer’s day I went for a walk up one of the highest hills in this part of the country. It was a very hard and rocky climb, and manv a fall I had. It was. however, well worth going through, for when I reached the top I had a view of some of the most beautiful scenery I had ever seen. On one side there was the river flowing down between clefts and bushes, small and tall. Behind that were the hills and mountains, while on the other side was more hills, and beyond that again was the Pacific Ocean. There were pretty litle winding creeks peeping from among the hills. I stayed feasting my eyes upon these lovely scenes until the sun had set. The setting sun was one of the most gorgeous scenes I have ever seen. Its beautiful rays of light spread across the sky. tinting the c’ouds gold and pink, and casting a purplish haze over the mountains and river. As I walked home I watched the evening changing its fascinating robe for the dark one of night. What a wonderful place this world of ours is! Y’es. I do paint. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Y’ours trulv LAVENDERETTE (Otago).

[Y’ou have given mo a beautiful glimpse into your wonderland of beauty. Lnvenderette. I too. have had such a vision after an arduous climb. It has more than compensated me for the weary hours spent in toiling over rough land. I thought you painted.—DOT.]

Dear Dot.-— Please may I join vour happy band of Little Folk? I am 14 years of age. and I go to the high school here. YY’e receive the Otago Witness every Tuesday, and I enjoy reading the Little Folk's letters. You had a good number of letters from the Old Writers this year. We have a fruit garden, so we are beginning to be busy with the stone fruit. The rainy weather and cold days made Christmas seem different from the usual hot weather that we are accustomed to at that time of the year. Campers and holiday-makers will think that Roxburgh is a wet place, but this year lias been exceptionally wet. Love to al] the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly. HIE SNOYY’ FAIRY' (Roxburgh).

[Y'ou may join. The Snow Fairy I have had to make an alteration to your name, as the one you sent along belonged to another. I hope you like the one I

have cjiosen for you. Yes, we had many interesting letters during Old Writers’ YVeek. Roxburgh is a very warm place as a rule. —DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l have been enjoying the Old Writers’ letters which have appeared lately in the Otago YVitness. Last year I gained my proficiency, so I will be going to high school this year. We are very busy with the harvesting just now. My sister and I have a large amount of work to do, as my mother is still away. I have been reading some of my school prizes. Their titles being, “The School Gills’ Own Annual.” “ Greenie and the Pink ’Un,” and “ The Independence of Claire.” I received a prize for Sewing. It was a needle case and a silver thimble. I have just written a letter to Maid Muriel. She has asked me to visit her some day soon. Aly brother and sister were home for Christmas. On Christmas Day we all went for a drive in our car. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, JEANNINE (Gore). [One pair of hands less in the house makes more work for those hands which are left, Jeannine. “ The Independence of Claire” sounds interesting. Is it? Many of my Little Folk secured a sewing prize this year. I am very proud of them all. It must have been jolly to have your brother and sister home lor the holidays.—DOT.] ¥ ¥ ¥ Dear Dot,- I have read all the Old YY l iters’ letters and I found them very interesting, especially the letters from Caversham Lad. Ivanhoe, and Red Ragger. I have been in the Riverton Hospital for six months and two weeks. I had to undergo an operation to have the bone of my leg scraped. On New Y’ear's Day I went to the Tuatapere sports, and had a good time notwithstanding that the grounds were very' wet and muddy owing to the rain. Tossmalone gained her proficiency this year, and besides was awarded a special prize for coming first in class and first for drawing. My two youngest brothers are away for their holidays just now. Two of my cousins were staying at our place for a while, but now have returned home. Our flower garden is looking very beautiful just now. Most of the flowers are out in bloom. Our vegetable garden is also looking well. My father has finished shearing the sheep, and is now baling up the wool ready to be sent away. Aly eldest brother is at present helping my uncle to shear his sheep. It is very hot here to-day. which is a change from the wet weather we have been experiencing. Kind regards to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.— Y’ours truly . AMELIA (Lillburn Y’alley). [Yes. the Old Writers’ YY'eek was an interesting one, Amelia. I am so sorry to hear of your recent illness. As you mention that you had attended a sports meeting on New Year's Day' I conclude that you are restored to health. Tossmalone must be a very clever girl. The flower garden is at its best during the summer season. I trust that your health shall continue to improve.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —The Old YY l iters wrote inletters, which took me a while to read. The weather lately' has not been favourable enough for many people to venture near the water. This will be my last letter which I shall be writing from this place. YY'e are moving to a town At present we are in a butchery business. The scenery here is beautiful. YY’e are surrounded by hills covered with ferns and different drooping trees. Chrisfimas has passed again for another year. Last y ear just seemed to slip away. There are pictures showing here to-night and they seem to be rather good ones. I have three cousins ami one aunt who write to the page. Now’ and again we go eeling. Eels are horrible looking fish! Have you ever seen an eel? The Chums seem to be having numerous adventures on their travels. There is an Oddfellows’ picnic to-morrow. I am not going. YY’e are too busy packing. The flowers are very pretty just now. especially the roses, which have a strong perfume. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours ti ulv.

I HE SINGING PRISONER’S BRIDE (Southland).

(You do not say to which town you are moving. Singing Prisoner s Bride. I know Lumsden well. lhe scenery is exceptionally good. Are you fond of pictures? Eels are not pleasant fish to look at or to handle, though they make very’ fine eating. I have seen plenty of cels and caught them too. Roses smell sweetly.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Many years have elapsed since I last penned these dear familiar words. I am really ashamed of mvself for neglecting the page. However. I shall try to write more often during the coming year. I am always interested in the Little Folks letters, and when we receive our Otago YY itness.. I turn immediately to the Little Folks page. I do not know many of the Little Folk now. I have corresponded with one Little Folk now for neatly six years. I have found in her a real friend, thanks to Dot’s page. The weather down here is simply glorious at present. I wish the weather man had given us these days at Christinas time. How much more enjoyable the holidays would have been! I am chief cook at home at present. My mother is on a holiday’ visit to Christchurch and Oamaru. The other members of our family are forever teasing me about not feeling fit after eating some of the meals I cook. They’ are all still alive, however, and looking none the worse, thanks to Tomboy Bess, who always comes to the rescue. Tomboy Bess is staying with me at present. I shall miss her very much when she goes away. She is such good company. YY'e were busy taking snaps all this afternoon. YY'e are hoping they will be good. I suppose all the Little Folk have quite recovered from their New Y’ear and Christmas excitement! I went to Riverton regatta on Boxing Day, and thoroughly’ enjoyed myself. It is very interesting to watch the boats racing. On New Y’ear's Day I went to the Bluff regatta, and also had a good time. There was a huge steamer in. and we were allowed to go n board to have a look over it. Bluff is a nice little place—in fine weather especially. I have been on a few visits to ('hristchurch too. since last I wrote. I spent a few months at my sister's place. Both of us had a splendid time seeing the sights. I think Christchurch is a very P’cttv place. When 1 retire from work that is where I shall live. What a

splendid reunion of Old YVriters there vas this year. 1 shall soon be an Old YVriter too. One soon grows old. All good wishes tor the coming year.—Y’ours trulv, SHEILA FLEETYVOOD (Southland). [I shall look forward to receiving ]..- ters from you in the future, Sheila Fleetwood. The Little Folk’s page has been responsible for introducing people to a lifelong friendship with others of theii kind. Yes, we could have done with some warmth and sunshine during the festive season. You will be sorry to lose your friend, Tomboy Bess. Steamers are fascinating things to roam over. They’ make you think of the East and other distant * ¥ ¥ Dear Dot, — Some time has passed since 1 last wrote to the dear old page, but I promise -you that I shall write more regularly this year, as it will be my last as a Little Folk. After this year I shall be an Old YVriter. Really, it is awful to be growing up! It seems no time at all since I first wrote to the page, in reality it is almost nine years ago. YY’hat a great number of things have happened since then. At present 1 am staying with Sheila r l.eetwood, and am having a very enjoyable time. Aly holidays last until February 3. I hope the weather keeps fine. I cannot understand why’ it had to be so wet and cold for Christmas ami New Year. All the same I had a very happy time, and only wish you and all the Little Folk had the same. Christmas Day was fairly’ quiet. On Boxing Day I went to Riverton regatta. On New Y ear s Day’ I attended the Tuatapere sports, where I met a number of my old schoolmates from Clifden. Tambourine Dancer is now married. She is living at Birchwood. Another schoolmate, also a Little Folk, is following her example during June. I am sure you will all join with me m wishing her every’ happiness in her new sphere of life. I am workin l ’ at Invercargill now, and like it fairly well. I think however, that country life is the best life. I left Otautau nearly’ two years ago, and have been in this town ever since. I have made many friends during that time. 1 would not like to leave them all now. YY'hat a grand muster of Old YVriters you had last time! I had not seen any of their letters until Sheila !• leetwood had them sent to her this morning. Y’ou may be sure we had both our noses soon buried in the page. Last Easter I went to Stewart Island for a tup. I had an enjoyable time. YY’e went o'er on Good Friday. My' word, if I wasn t seasick! I really thought I would never reach land again. Have you ever experienced seasickness? While we were theie we stayed at Ferndale House, and every' day went away for trips either bv launeh or on foot. YVe went to the whaling base one day. There were seven or eight boats in, but we did not look over them. I took quite a number of snaps there, and they were all very good, the weather was not as good as it might have been, but it did not worry me. as I had to be back at work on the Tuesday. I returned from Stewart Island on Easter Monday. It was a beautiful day. so we w-ere all able to stay up on deck. YY’e are thinking of going to Queenstown this Easter. I am looking forward to the holiday. I have never been there. Some friends of mine are doing Milford Track just now. I should like to go there too. From the description one receives, it must be beautiful. I wish all the Little Folk and yourself every good wish.—Y'ours truly.

TOMBOY BESS (Invercargill)

[ls it nine years ago since you became one of my Little Folk. Tomboy' Bess? The years fly, and unfortunately do what V \ C 3 vill . " e eannot hold them back. You shall have to make the most of your remaining days. I had heard of I ambourine Dancer’s marriage. I wish her every jov. One becomes attached to a place.' Stewart Island is a very beautiful holiday resort. No. I have never experienced seasickness. It is a very unpleasant complaint, so I am told. I trust you shall have your holiday to Queenstown. Thank you for the kind wishes.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Christmas is over now. and we,are into the new year. Does not time fly ? Relations visited us on Christmas Day. YVe were very pleased to see them They arrived here at 10 a.m., and left at 4 p.ni.. so we had a lovely long day with them. I received some beautiful presents at Christmas time —six handkerchiefs a book, a brooch, and a good many' more presents, but I have not enough spa'-e tc. write them down. I enjoyed reading the Old YY’riters’ letters. Some of them were very interesting. I see Teddy' and Golly are in a new role. They seem to have great fun whatever role they appear in. YY’e have just finished shearing, and are very glad it is over. YY’e have had four wet Sundays running. The Sunday before Christmas Day the Salvation Army band came out from Waimate to play' before the houses. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Y'ours truly.

FAIRY’TITANIA (South Canterbury). [Y’es. time flies, Fairy Titania. It is pleasing to have one’s relations with one on Christmas Day. YY'hat is the name of your book? Have you worn your brooch yet? Did you enjoy listening to the Salvation Army plaving Christmas carols?— DOT. |

Deal* Dot.- —It is over a year since I last wrote to you. I have always been intending to write, but the time goes past so very quickly. This last year seems to have gone very swiftly. I was away a good bit of the time. I returned home three weeks ago after a seven weeks’ holiday at Timaru. where I had a splendid time. I was staying on a sheep station some miles out in the country. It was a change after the town. There were five pet lambs there. I did love feeding them. They would follow’ me about. Lambs make such nice pets. One day we motored to Albury, some 20 miles away YVe passed some very pretty homesteads on the way. I was down at Caroline Bay’ a few times. It is a very nice spot, do you not think so? Most of the time the weather was fine, but while the shearing was on it rained so much that the shearers had to remain for three weeks instead of just one as usually. I came home on December 23. bringing two of my cousins with me. The train was crowded YY'ei arrived in Invercargill 40 minutes late. The next night was Christmas Eve. so we all went to town. On Christmas Dav we had a houseful of people Imre. On Boxing Day a party of us went to Riverton rm

gatta, ami although a light rain fell at times, still it was a pleasant outing. Some of the younger folk went for a walk round to the Rocks, but our elders did not reach that point. On New Year's Eve we all went to town, but as it was raining, the outing was not very pleasant. Bluff regatta was on New Y ear's Day, ami. although the weather did not look too promising, we motored down. YY’e had a splendid time, as it turned out quite warm in the afternoon. There was a big ship in port, the Kent, so we went over it. and then went for a long walk round the point. YY’e arrived home about 6 o'clock, had tea, then deposited outsclves in the car and motored out to my uncle’s place near Otautau. My aunt, who was not expecting us. received a great surprise when such a number of us arrived. YY’e had to be content with any kind of beds that night. YY’e stayed there nearly a week, ami as they' were shearing at the time we were able to help with t’..e lunches and things. On the Sun lav we went for a motor ride to Ohai. YY'e went via Otautau. YVairio, Nightcaps, and into Ohai. then back through Orawia ;.nd Merrivale to Otautau. YY’e had a puncture on the way home. This was the only mishap. Two days after we came home another crowd came here to stay. They all went away last Friday, so things seem very quiet now. I wish you and all the Little Folk happiness in the new vear. — Y’ours trulv. SONG, THE HALF-MOON GIRL (Invercargill).

[Y es. the past year did appear to slip by quickly. Song, the Half-moon Girl. The older one grows the quicker the time seems to fly. Lambs make charming pets. They are so cuddly. Y’ou have had a large number of splendid outings during the holidays. The rain spoilt many an outing and manv a holidav this season. — DOT.]

Dear Dot.— I have been very unlnckv to-day. 1 cut my finger twice, and both cuts were fairly deep. YY’e have had dreadful weather lately. One day it is a bit fine, and the next two days are wet. Some of the gardens are looking nice, and others arc very backward. YY’e have io garden this year, as we have moved to a new home about four miles from Gore. YY'e have to go to school in the train. At present we are busy making jam, as the gooseberries are ripe. Love to all the Little Folk ami your own deal' self. —- Y'ours trulv. SILY’ER FERNERY' (Gori L IT- . - . fi ( ■ ’

painful, Silver Fernery. Yes, the weather

has been annoying us badly this season. Y'ery few gardens in this city are looking well. The heavy rainfall has not been good for them. Do you like riding in a train to school? Are you able to make jam?—DOT.] Dear Dot. — May I join jour happy band? I shall be in Standard II at school this year. I received a second prize for sewing last year. I made mum a peg bag. and gave it to her for Christmas. My little brother and I had scarlet fever last year. YY’e were in hospital for 10 weeks. YY’e both caught chicken-pox while we were there. YY'e have a hen with eight chickens. YY’e love watching them. They jump on to their mother's back. They pick their food out of our hands. YY’e have a dear wee black ’ ;t--ten. It has a wee white tie. I was flower girl at my cousin's wedding on Boxing Day. Love to you and the Little- Folk. -—Yours truly, LUMPY CARROT (Christchurch). [Y'ou may ceitainly join. Lumpy Carrot. You write a very interesting letter indeed for so wee a maid. You do not say what your age is. Tell me next time you write. Mum would be very pleased with her peg bag. Did you like being in the hospital? YY’hat is the name of your wee kitten?? —DOT.] * ¥ ¥ Dear Dot. May I become a member of your page? I like reading about the Chums. It is very interesting. I will be in Standard IY' this year. I am 10 years old. I have a garden at school. I hail some seeds given to me, and they were doing well until a passing mob of sheep broke into the school grounds and trampled them down. My brother and I were going to pick currants again this year, but unfortunately he became ill with scarlet Fever and had to go to Bottle Lake. YY’e used to live in Otago. YY o went to- the Dunedin Exhibition. YY’e have six hens, which lay six eggs some days. It is miserable summer weather—raining every day. YY’e were going to the beach to-day only it rained. YY’e were all disappointed. Love to all the Little Folk and to yourself.—Y’ours truly. I.NCLE YYTGGILY (Riccarton). [Welcome, Uncle YY'iggily. Y’ou are young to bo in Standard IY'. How annoying to have your beautiful garden trampled over. Next time v.->-garden put a fene-' n-'miv 1 T ’>->r brother! I am sure he would much lather have ’ be.ng ill in hospital. Y our liens are lay-

ing very well. How disappointing the Tain coming down just as you were going to the beach. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I did not go away for Christmas, as we were too busy. My mother and brother went to Queenstown for the week-end. M e have some sweet peas in bloom, which are very pretty. Our raspberries, black currants, -nd gooseberries are ripe. I received a school and a Sunday school prize, the titles ot which are “ The New Zealand Girls’ Annual,” and “ The Ambitions of Jenny Ingram.” I have read a good number of books lately. They are “ A Dealer in Sunshine,” bv Dora Olive Thompson; ‘ The Holiday School.” by E. E. Cowper; “The Brushwood Hut.” by E. E. Cowper; “The Girls of St. Olaves,” by Haverfield, and ” What Katy Did.” Have you read any of them? We are nulking 14 cows. 1 see you have some Little Folk who write from very far away. e had our school picnic at Glenary. I have passed into Standard V. I was very glad to receive the badge, ami to be able to wear it on my hat. We have finished shearing. I received some toys from Father Christmas. We had our aunt and cousin from Dunedin staving with us for a week at New A ear time. There are not many flowers in bloom in the garden. —A ours truly. . DOUBLE E (Waipounamu). [You may, perhaps, have an opportunity of having a holiday later on. Double E. Sweet peas are charming flowers to have in one’s garden. The cold weather destroyed all my plants. I have read the Girls’ Own Annual. It is a good Himber this year. I read ‘’What Katy Did several years ago. Have you read ” D hat Katy Did at School? ’ les, 1 have Little Folk who live in various parts of the Dominion. 1 am glad that you liked your badge.- DOT.]

Deal' Dot. —Mav 1 join vour happy band of Little Folk. We buy the Otago Witness every week, and 1 find the letters very interesting. May I have the nom de plume of Fairy Bella.’ 1 I know Bashful Fifteen. —'Sours truly. FAIRY BELLA (Waimate). [Yes. you may join. Fairy Bella. The heading on your note paper is very quaint Did Santa Claus make a present of it.” — DOT.J

Dear Dot. — Once again I am penning a few lines to the page. Congratulations | on your fine muster of Old Writers. I [Mother had again a letter in this year, i Fancy, next Old W citers’ W eek I will be one of your Old Writers. Jack Lar wrote a very long and interesting letter this year. I met him in Invercargill on Show Week. He accompanied me from Lady Barkly to Garston on my way home. | We had a very nice trip up. J was home] for a fortnight at Christmas, and bad a I very enjoyable time, and really f did not I care about coming back here again I I think there is no place like Southland, i I did not go to any of the sports or re- | gattas while I was at home. 1 went to a dance at Lime Hills after the sports. I had an enjoyable time. Ou Christmas Eve j

I went to Invercargill. The streets were very crowded, but it did not seem a bit like Christmas Eve, and oh. how my poor feet did ache with walking the streets! The crowded shops were really the only places that looked at all Christmasy Really the poor assistants must have been very tired. They would weleonro the holidays. I left Invercargill about 10 o'clock and ai rived home about 12 o'clock. There were two accidents on Christmas Eve. Last year a boy friend of mine was fatally injured. It was a big blow to me. as I had not seen him for a year. A few hours before it happened a friend we both knew had told me that he had said he would bo in town that evening, and hoped to see me. I never saw him. Strangest of all. the very spot he was killed on was where 1 last bad stood talking to him. What kind of weather are you having-m Dunedin? At present it is very hot here, and sometimes. very windv. Weil. Harold told me if he didn't write this Old Writers' Week he wished me to explain. He has loft New Zealand, and has gone to British New Guinea. He told me that he did not think he would ever return. 1 hope he won't desert us altogether. I am, however, afraid that he may not return lor at least three years. I am sori v ho did not write to you this year. Kindest regards.— Yours trulv. MISSING GIRL (Otago). [Jack Tar's letters are always interesting. Missing Girl. Southland is a good province. Are you fond of dancing? 1 always feel sorry for shop assistants. Having to stand all day in a confined space must be extremely tiring. One is frequently hearing ot some tragedy. Harold lias g.me to an intcr< sting country. Tell him that a letter describing that country would be 'an interesting one.-- D( »T.l D: :.r Dot, —As it is a while since I wrote to the page 1 thought that I would pen you a few lines. I enjoyed reading the Old Writer*' letters. Some of them were very interesting. I have been away for a holiday in a town. I have my cousins staying with me just now, and we have good times together. It has been very cold v--aiher for Christmas time. On" of out dogs has seven little puppies. 'With love to you and all the Little Folk. - Yours truly. MOUNTAIN DWELLER (Clydevale). [Have you given the wee puppies names yet. Mountain Dweller? It is pleasant to have a relative staying with one. What games docs your cousin plav with von? - DOT.! n- nDear Dot. —May I join your happy band of Little Folk? 1 am 11 years of age. "1 have two sisters ami a brother. I am staying with my cousin. Mountain Dweller, for the holidays, and we are enjoying ourselves very much. My father works on the railway. We had very cold weather for the holidays this year. I wil (lose. I hope you and all the Little Folk are well. —Yours truly. DADDY’S BEAUTY t Dunedin). [Welcome. Daddy's Beauty. Is your cousin living in the country? Yes. the weather was very annoying during the ( hristmas holidays.— DO I .J Dear Dot.-- I have had a letter from . my correspondent, but 1 have not had

one from any other. Our sheep are shorn, and some of our lambs are sold. It ehall not be long before our holidays are over and we are back again at school. I will be in Standard V, and so will Silkworm. Magic Bell will be in Standard IV.—-Yours trulv. FERNERY (Tarara).

[Were you pleased with your correspondent's letter. Fernery? You would be sad at losing some of your lambs. Yes, the holidays will soon be finished. —DOT.]

Dear Dot. —I have just been reading the Old Writers’ letters, and suddenly realised that I would be a member of that band before very long. I am afraid I have not been a regular writer in the past, but in the time still at my disposalI intend to “ make hay while the sun shines” —that is. before I am limited to one letter a year. Was it not a splendid reunion this year? It was a great pleasure to read all the Old Writers’ cheery and interesting letters. Now that the bustle and rush of Christmas and New Year festivities are past the majority of us seem to be settled down to our usual routine. I had a very busy, and a very exciting, time at Christmas, for the Christmas presents I received were very numerous. Ou Boxing Day I went to the Caledonian sports at Temuka. It was the first time I had been to sports for years. 1 quite enjoyed [ them too. although I did not think I I would when I first set out. However, 1 I surprised the other members of my family i when I declared myself eager to go to more sports meetings. Accordingly I I was taken to those in Timaru on New [ Year’s Day. During the afternoon a ; very heavy shower came on. and really it I was most amusing to see all the people I scuttling away to the grand stand, or to I the shelter of their cars. Some girls were in summer frocks and were without overcoats. I went to a dance a few days ! ago, and had a very enjoyable time. It I was a very hot night, however, and made one feel rather languid. The dancing I season is well past now. is it not? The most hackneyed remark at present seems to be. “ Is not the weather annoying?” But nevertheless I cannot resist touching upon this subject, for I just feel furious with the weather prophets. The poor

farmers are bemoaning the fact that their crops will be ruined if the sun does not appear very soon. It has been an unfortunate time for most farmers, for wool prices do not appear at all promising as yet. While reading some of the letters of the Little Folk 1 have been very much impressed by the amount of reading in which some of these Little Folk .seem to indulge. I have been wondering lately how many of them realise what a great help this is to those who go on to I secondary schools. If so. I wonder if thej- ' read books other than mere exciting i stories. After music. I think reading is . the most enjoy able of pastimes. I must | admit that I love a day in the garden | too. Love to all the Little Folk and ' vour own dear self. —Yours trulv. A JAPANESE LADY (South Canterbury).

| We had a splendid reunion this year. A Japanese* Lady. Many of the letters were interesting in their description of places and people. Routine is a hard taskmaster. He holds us to his wheel with only an occasional slackening of pressure. Sports meetings sometimes gives one a delightful opportunity of meeting peoplv one has not sen for years. Young people like to dance all the year round

here. The weather has been making us very nervy of late. Yes. many of the Little Folk are voracious readers. Occasionally a book is mentioned by a little one which would Ire better unread, but. for the most part. 1 reallv think the school tale is a safe tale.— DOl'.]

AUTOS. Blossoming Cherry (Miss Ena Thompson. Ringway Ridges. Otautau) would like to correspond with Prince Charming Eyes. Aunt Jemima. Punchinello, and any other Little Folk between the ages of 13 and 15 years. Will tlrey please write first ait(l soon? New Zealand Fernery (Moira Ross. Purakauiti rural delivery, via Ratanui) wishes Pip 1 1 and A Maid of the Yiolets to write again. She also wishes to correspond with anv Australian Little Folk. Fernery (Miss B. Rae. Tarara) would like to correspond with Little Jean. Will she please write first ami soon? Merry Meg (Margaret Sent r. 92 Musselbuigh Rise. Dunedin) wishes to correspond with any Little Folk overseas between the ages ot 1<) and 13. Will the) please write first and soon? Arata I Mrs ( Icar.v. 13 Phillips street. Kensington. Dunedin) would like to hear from Rer.ore, or any other Old Writer. ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. Mis C. — I was very pleased to receive your letter. Thank you for your good wishes. I trust this year may be a very prosperous one for you. and bring you the fulfilment of your dreams. I hope prospects are now verv much brighter.— DOT.