LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLK.

Otago Witness, Issue 3969, 8 April 1930, Page 73

LETTERS FROM LITTLE FOLK.

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

Dear Dot, —I suppose it is rather late to start writing to you now, but I suppose it is better late than never. May I call myself one of your happy band? I am 15, and working out in the country. We have three cows, which I milk sometimes. I can ride a horse, but '■he other day I fell off and sprained my wrist. We killed our pig yesterday. There is a gaiety gala dance next month, and I am going as a blue pierrette. All the harvesting is over, and the harvest thanksgiving starts soon. Best of love to yourself and the Little Folk.—Yours truly, FLOWER OF THE RANCH-O (Southland). [You may join, Flower of the Ranch-o. You did not send your name and address in with your letter. That is sad news about your wrist. You must be careful not to fall off again. How sweet you will look in your blue dress! Has it pompoms, and will you wear stockings to match them, I wonder.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I join your ever-in-creasing band of Little Folk? I shall not have very much longer to write, for I shall reach the majority in four months’ time. However, much may be written in that time. I was in your beautiful city the other week having my hair permanently waved. Everyone tells me that it looks very pretty, and it is so handy. There is a ball here to-night, but I am not going. I am saving my energy for an Old Timers’ dance to be held on Friday night. Do you dance? I do, and I simply love it. Regards to all and vourself.—Yours trulv, BRAVE BUFFALO BILL (Southland).

_ [Yes, you may join, Brave Buffalo Bill. Your nomde plume is so famous that two people write under it already. You forgot to send your address, so I cannot enter it in the roll book. I like dancing if the evening is not too hot. Tell me which costume yon intend to wear to the Old Timers’ dance.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I shall have much pleasure in joining your happy circle of Little Folk if I may. I was 12 on March 12, and I am in Standard VI. I am going for my Junior National scholarship at the end of the year. I passed my theory examination, but I shall not be going for any more examinations in music this year. —Yours truly. TE MATAI (Palmerston North).

[I have entered your name, Te Matai, so now you are firmly established as one of the Little Folk. If you pass your exof the Little Folk. If you pass vour scholarship it will be a credit to the school. You are not very old either to sit for it, are you? . You cannot do both theory and school examinations at once unless you have many spare minutes for working papers. Your school work will probably be lighter next year.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —-It is a long time since I wrote to you, but I always read the Little Folk’s letters. We had a very enjoyable school picnic in February. We school children look forward to our picnic. We shall soon be starting to play hockey again. The trees have autumn leaves. It makes one think winter is nearly here. The changing of the clocks makes the days seem shorter. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly. PINEAPPLE FAIRY (Oturehua) [You forgot to tell us about the picnic, Pineapple Fairy. There must have been exciting games and races at it. We have half an hour less of daylight now. That is why we seem to have darkness upon us before we know where we are.—DOT.] V

Dear Dot, —Winter is approaching us slowly and surely, and it is almost time to put away out bathing costumes and produce our -woollen clothing. It will soon be my birthday, and my mother has had my watch fixed so that it will go again, and I am excited about it. It is very pleasant to read the Little Folk’s letters and hear what all of them are doing. We expect to have a good hockey and football team at high school this year. Do you play hockey? The serial, “A Wanderer’s Mate.” in the Otago Witness is very interesting, as I delight in reading. As I do not sew much I must find something to do in the long winter evenings, and so I read. It does not take me long to read a book once I become interested. The flowers in the gardens are beginning to fade, but the fruit makes up for that when it is ripe. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.—Yours truly, THE BLACK KITTEN (Southland 1.

[I do not play hockey, Black Kitten. It. is a warm game for the winter. Take care

of your watch now that it is mended again. Reading is a good thing to fill in the winter - evenings, but do not stay too long at it. Have you noticed how each

season is filled with its own colour?— DOT.]

Dear Dot/ —I have finished my high school education, and I am at present staying at home, although I hope to obtain soon a position which I have been looking for ever since I left school. Harvesting time has come round again, and we are busy cutting and bringing in the crops, which are ripening quickly owing to the long spell of dry weather which we have had. 'The farmers are hoping for rain, as most of the feed is done, and they want it for the turnips, which the stock feed on in the winter. The Kuri Bush school picnic was held some weeks ago at a place some miles up the Taieri River. We spent a very enjoyable day, although the weather was very cold, and we all enjoyed the trip up.the river in the motor launch, as the Taieri River has beautiful bush on both sides. , A sports programme was run off, and I .was fortunate enough to gain first place in 'the young ladies’ race. I have joined the Amateur Athletic Association, and I have won several prizes. The first season I won a signet ring and a gold bangle, and the second season I won a tortoise-shell brush and comb, and a silver wrist watch with a black band. I entered for the Otago Championships, but I came second only in the heat in which I ran. A fortnight ago some of our friends and relations and ourselves went for a picnic at a place, called Akatore, where we had a lovely time. The men intended to fish, but as the tide was too high they had races on the grass. About half-past four it commenced to rain, and wc then started

for home. Just when we were nearing oui - home we came across a sedan motorcar turned upside down in a culvert. Two cars had been passing, and one had gone too near the edge and then fallen over. The car did not suffer much damage, but one of the ladies received head injuries. We had a good time at Christmas, although we were not fortunate enough to go to any of the dances that were held at Taieri Mouth or Brighton. There was a bonfire and a fireworks display at Taieri Mouth on New Year’s Eve. Kindest regards to all the Little Folk and yourself. —Yours truly. FLOOD FRIGHT (Otago).

[Have you nearly all the crops in, Flood Fright? You are a clever runner, I think. Have you always been able to fly to the tape, or have you just learned it of late? Your prizes are sensible ones. Probably you will run better next time you come to Otago. It was a credit to come second in the heat even if you did not win a first place.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was so pleased to see my first letter in print, and that you had accepted me as a member of your band of Little Folk. It has been ideal harvest weather here only there were a few windy days. Most of the farmers are very busy gathering in the crops and preparing the ground again for the next season’s crops. Now I am going to change my subject, and tell you about my holiday I had at Christmas. I left Timaru the day before Christmas, and arrived at Dunedin about 7 o’clock on Christmas Eve. The train was two hours late owing to the ferry steamer being behind her usual time, but my uncle was at the station to meet me, and as he has a car it did not take us long to reach the end of my journey. I stayed a fortnight there, and during that time I visited the Gardens, St. Kilda and St. Clair beaches, and also the new Town Hall, which is a beautiful building. Then I went from Dunedin to Invercargill, and I was there for a week and two days, but where I was staying was six miles out of Invercargill, so I did not see much -while I was there, but I had a good time all the same, thence from Invercargill io Balclutha by train, and then a 25-mile motor drive up the Clutha River to Clydevale. where I enjoyed myself immensely staying with uncles and aunts, and cousins. I left there on Thursday morning for Dunedin, where I spent a few more days, and then spent a week at Oamaru on my homeward journey. This finished my six weeks’ tour. Kind regards to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, VERBENA FLOWER (Timaru)

[Thank you for the little piece of your namesake, Verbena Flower. It had such a sweet smell that I was smelling it and forgetting to correct your letter. Your six weeks were well filled with pleasures. It is jolly to have cousins who will try to make the best holiday they can for one.— DOT.]

Dear Dot, —The swimming season is almost over. The baths at school are open for swimming. The water in them is freezing compared with the river water. I am in the Upper Fourth this year. We are having considerable additions to the school and grounds done soon. I bought a new bicycle yesterday—an “ Advance.” It is a lovely machine. I am on the woodwork committee at school. The footballs have just been pumped up to-day, and were the chief attraction round the school. There was a big new electric cooker brought in for the girls’ cookery class the other day. There has been a king carnival in Rangiora these last two days. We had tickets to be raffled, but I do not know if we have won anything yet, as I did not go to the hall last night. My brother and I went to the mouth of the Ashley River last Sunday week fishing, but we did not catch a thing, nor did anyone else. We have been down eeling lately, and have been fairly successful.—Love to you and all.-—Yours truly, HATU PATU (Ashley).

[lt is useless to expect much work to be done at first when football season has just opened, Hatu Patu. How excited the girls will be about the cooker. Perhaps you have won a prize with your tickets. It would be funny if you were given a football as a reward. —DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l have left school and obtained work. I am working in a paint shop, and I am learning the signwriting, so I have to go to night technical- school, and consequently I do not have much tune for pleasure or letter writing. I went to the talkies last night and saw “ Rio Rita,” and I thought it was splendid. Did you see it? I play hockey for the Central Club, and I thiilk it is a great game to play. Men’s hockey was just revived here after a lull of' a few years last year, so that a number of players are new to the game yet. I shall not be writing to the Little Folk page much longer, as I shall be 21 in a little over a year’s time. There is some talk of not holding the Mayfair this year, but I do hope they do. I suppose you have read of past Mayfairs in the papers, but that is not as good as being at them. I went to the territorials’ annual camp at Gore, and I had a great rime in spite of the drill. It was strenuous, but I like anything to do with military training. I am thinking of joining the British Army when I have served my time at the painting. Next Monday I have my annual holidays of two weeks, and I am going to Christchurch. Love to yourself and all. —Yours truly, THE STERN SHERIFF (Invercargill). [Explain some of your interesting work to us, Stern Sheriff. Do you find it hard to keep your fingers clean when you are handling the paint? I have not seen the picture you mention. If you have such a god time in Mayfair Week you will have plenty to tell us when you write about it. Most boys enjoy the camp, although drill is a big part of each day’s routine. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band of Little Folk? I left school this year, and I am now working at home. We have just started taking the Otago Witness, and there is a rush for it every Wednesday morning. I have three sisters, one older than myself, and two younger, also two older brothers. I am learning music, and I have to walk five miles every Wednesday to Morton Mains for it. I have a little brown and black kitten. Could you please give me a name for it? It is everybody’s favourite, and is always into mischief. One day it went into the flour bag. and it did look a sight when it came out with its face covered with flour. Best

love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, SQUEAKY SHOES (Dacre). [Yes, you may join, Squeaky Shoes. I expect you will have worn the squeak out of the shoes by now. I feel that the pussy would be a favourite of mine too if I could see his naughty black and tan paws in everything they should not touch. Call him Paddy, a name generally given to a mischievous Irish girl or boy. You deserve to progress in music if you have to walk so far to lessons.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —May I join your happy band? I am in Standard I. We have five, lambs. We have a retfiever pup.— Yours trulv, LAKE KINGFISHER (Otago). [Yes, you may join. Lake Kingfisher (your name was taken) if you send me your private name and address. L>o you have charge of the pet lambs? Puppy will be a big help when he grows older, though he is not so much a sheep dog as a collie. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I do not write in ink at school yet. They do not start to write in ink until Standard 111. I am in Standard 11. All our apples and nectarines are finished. Our school picnic was held yesterday at the racecourse. It was too hot to run in the races. There’ were apple scrambles and lolly scrambles. The swimming season finishes next Friday. Football will soon be starting. My brotner, Douglas is a Cub, and I am joining too. We meet every Saturday night at the Cub hall. I shall not have my uniform for over a month. We went to Kawhia for our Christmas holidays, but next year we shall be going to our Uncle Tom’s place in Tauranga. I have not been there since I was one year old. Murray and Shirley have not been there yet. We have a piano and a gramophone and 65 records. Best love to all.—Yours truly,

JOCKEY WOCK WOCK (Te Awamutu).

[When it is too hot to run it is so exhausting that even the most energetic of us want to keep out of the races even if they are on the school picnic day. Jockey Wock Wock. Tell me all about the Cubs. I have seen some boys in town here. The uniforms are so neat. I wonder if you will remember any of the things at your uncle’s place?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It is cold in the mornings going to school. We have about two miles to go to school. My sister. Joyous June, is just playing the gramophone, and it is lovely. Our parrot is an angry bird at times. He pecks us when we are not expecting it. I have written three letters to-night, counting this one. I wish you the best of luck.—-Yours truly,

CURLY WHIRLY -(Southland).

[Parrots are often teased, and that makes them cross, Curly Whirly. If they are not petted from when they are tiny it makes them suspicious of people when they are full grown. One bird 1 know of used to call out to his master every morning as he went to work, “ Got a coat with you, Alec? ” He was a lovable parrot, with an absurd manner of tilting his head when he looked at people.—DOT.]

Dear Dot,—My sister goes to high school, and is very busy at her lessons. They have a number to do. Are the ones in your happy band big or small folk? My mother and father both play tennis, and are going to have their last game on Saturday. We school girls had a practice at hockey to-day, and enjoyed it very much. I do not know whether we shall be able to get a team or not, as there are not many of us.—Yours truly, LITTLE JERSEY COW (Southland)..

[Thank you for all those kisses, Little Jersey Cow. I counted them and there were 60 for me. There are big and little Folk on my list. Some are nearly 21 years old and some are five or six. What a pity it is that mother and father have to stop playing tennis because of the dark evenings!—DOT.]

Dear Dot,- —I was pleased to see my first letter in print. I have a little Shetland pony, and her name is Trixie. She is so quiet that we can catch her any time. My brother and I go to school four and a-half miles. Mother takes us in the car. Sometimes we play blind man’s buff at school. I have a big play house. My auntie Dorothy, who is 12 years old, come to stay with me. Dad gave me an old telephone, and I cannot ring anybody. My little sister is a dear wee thing. We have a pup called Jock. Love to all thgMJttle Folk and your own dear self. —Yours truly, GAY GIRL (Waimate). [Your Auntie Dorothy is not very old. Gay Girl. Together you can have great fun in the playhouse. You are lucky to have one. Did father make it? There are numbers of imaginary people a per soil can ring up on a broken telephone. Outsiders do not know of all the news that flies through toy telephones from the people keeping house in the playhouse.—• DOT.] ¥ * ¥ Dear Dot, —School has begun once again, and I am in Standard VI. We have to go to Lawrence every Tuesday to learn cooking, and the boys learn woodwork. We have a good time, but I do not know if we learn much. We had our hockey meeting the other day, and I was elected captain. We have a very poor team, but we shall see what we can do. I am going to Dunedin for my theory examination soon, and I may be going in for my intermediate practical in September. My uncle and aunt, who are living with us, are away, and we miss them very much.—Yours truly, YOUNG HOCKEY PLAYER (Waitahuna).

[I am curious to know what you have made at cooking, Young Hockey Player. Did you manage to save it to show the people at home, or did you eat it before you arrived? You must try to learn all you can at cooking. Make your team practise hard and they will soon improve. I hope you pass your examination. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I am chief cook at present, as my mother-in-law is away for a holiday. She is at Glenorchy, and says she is enjoying herself. We have a baby girl with blue eyes and fair hair. She is such a precious darling, and is very good most of the time. My husband has his oats cut and stooked, so if the weather keep*

up he will be able to bring them in soon. It is good to have it all finished with. Midge is being married next month. My husband and 1 received an invitation, but will not be going, as it is too far away. I discovered an Old Writer in this district. Her nom de plume is Cosmos. I had my badge on, and she noticed it and told me she used to write to the page too. I had a letter from Tomboy Bess to-day. It is good to hear from old mates even although one has not seen them for years. I wrote to Amelia to-night too. 1 am going home to-morrow. It is pleasant going to see them, and I grow awfully homesick at times. My brother who comes next to ine is away to Australia, and seems to like it. It seems funny at home not seeing him running about. Baby is crying, so 1 -must go and feed her. Kindest regards to all and your own dear self. —Yours truly, TAMBOURINE DANCER (Southland).

[We are anxious to hear more about the baby, Tambourine Dancer. How old is she? She knows her daddy and mummy well, I expect. It will be a big relief to have the crops in. It was kind of Cosmos to introduce herself. When one person goes from the home it seems so very empty even if there are other brothers and sisters. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —To-day was so pleasant I went for a long walk. First of all I walked to church, and then some of my friends and I walked a long way over paddocks to see some waterfalls. They were lovely, and we were sorry we had not remembered to bring a camera to take snaps of them. Last Sunday I spent the afternoon with Father’s Best -Jockey. It is a long distance to walk to her place, but I do not mind walking. Your page is more interesting every week, and 1 do enjoy reading the Little Folk’s letters. ' The other day I found an old Otago Witness, and I read all the Old Writers’ letters over again. The district freshened up after the rain we had last week. The turnips were badly in need of it. Most of the farmers have their crops in, an dthe busy times are over again until spring. We have some pretty sweet peas. They were late in being planted, but they bloomed well after they did come out. We are milking two cows only, and they are not very hard to milk, because the grass is scarce. I like milking cows, but if I had eight or nine to milk I should be dodging the task. Love to you and all the Little Folk. —Yours truly, NOKOMIS OF THE MOON (Otago).

[Walking is good for you, Nokomis of the Moon. Be careful to put a coat or jersey on if you are overheated after the exercise. You would soon grow used to milking the larger number of cows. It is always so cool-near a waterfall even if it is sunny. Inside the bush the trees are so thick that--to stay long near such a waterfall as the one in Frasers Gully in Dunedin makes one shiver and seek the sun again.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —The inspector was at the Bchool last Wednesday, and he was very pleasant. Red Hot Poker was away having her teeth extracted. I can ride a bicycle. I learnt on an old bicycle that would not go by simply keeping my balance, so when I did have one to ride it was not hard to learn. I have not had any falls yet, so I am lucky. I am sewing an apron for myself at school. We have not a very good flower garden, because there are many weeds. Our roses and dahlias are very pretty. We have a large orchard, and we always have more fruit than we can use. Mum has been very busy making jam lately. Dove to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Yours truly,

FALLING SNOWFLAKES (Maerewhenua).

[The inspector's visit is often the most jolly day in the term, Falling Snowflakes. He is such a kindly person really, and knows that boys and girls think they are frightened of him when actually they are not. That was a good way to learn to .ride. Try to keep your record of not having one fall from the bicycle. Weeds need to be pulled out continually.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I am in Standard IV this year, and I do not find it very hard. The inspector was at the school last Wednesday. I was away, but Falling Snowflakes said he was a dear. I had 11 teeth extracted, and my face was swollen up. Eleven teeth made a good number to be had out in one day. We -, ave a large amount of fruit, but it goes to waste. Madam is my mate, and we have fun sometimes. I am making a petticoat for myself at school. I had a letter from Minnie a few days ago, and I must write to her. Mum and dad are away to a sale, but I do not know if they will buy anything. Love to all the Little Folk and your own self.—Yours truly, RED HOT POKER (Maerewhenua). [You were a brave child to have 11 teeth taken out in one day. Red Hot Poker. It was no wonder your face was swollen up. You must not catch cold in your gums now. It is a pity that the fruit goes to waste. Can you not sell it to anybody? Is it a coloured petticoat?

Dear Dot. —In this letter I am going to tell you about our new school room. It was built last November, and is made of wood. It is just like a real schoolroom with desks and a blackboard. On cold days we have a fire on in a little heater, and the room is very hot. There are only three of us to go to school. I am in Standard 11, and my two sisters are in Standard I and Class I. We start school at 9.15, and finish at 3.15. Every morning we have nature study, which I like very much. At present we are looking for signs of autumn. We have been dipping sheep lately, and I like to be at the dip. When I was away for my holidays I went for two picnics at Lyon’s Bush, and I had a good tune with the other children. There ■was a river running through the picnic ground, and some Maoris swimming in it, and they could swim like fish. The next time we went the river was very high and running very swiftly. Not many people bathed, but Avenel Lass and a friend went in, and said it was lovely. They could not swim against the current, so when they had gone a long way downstream they had to come out and walk "back again. Avenel Lass is going away after Easter, and I shall have a new teacher. Best wishes.—Yours truly, LITTLE SHEPHERDESS (Avenel).

{Nature study is perhaps the most interesting of all the school subjects, Little Shepherdess. When you grow older you may hear part of it named botany, which is mainly the study of flowers and leaves. How eorry you will be to lose Avenel Lass. Have you ever written on the blacklioard? You will probably write crookedly at first.—DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l want to tell you about our new home in South Otago. It is three years since we left Central Otago. I like the change very much. The climate is much the same as Central. We do not have much rain here, and a good deal of wind. We are situated four miles from Waipahi railway and post office. I have left school and work on the farm. The land is low-lying, and we are able to see a good distance away in the east. We can see the Lamfherlaws, and this side of them the Blue Mountains. We have some good school excursions from here. In 1928 we went to Colac Bay, south of Invercargill, and we enjoyed ourselves very much. The bush scenery was beautiful. We did not go on the 1929 one. It was to Dunedin. This year we had a very pleasant trip to Maclennan Bush. The place is about 45 miles down the Gatlins River branch. The bush is very beautiful, growing right to the water’s edge. There was a sawmill about half a mile from the railway station through which I had a good look. An engine was employed to bring the logs from the bush, while a horse hauled the cut timber to the station. I was very sorry when it was time to go home, although we had an enjoyable trip Everything is looking fresh after the long wanted rain.—Yours truly. LIGHTNING FLASH (South Otago). [Do you walk into the post office, or ride a horse, Lightning Flash? Colac Bay is a popular place for school excursions. Could you bathe near the sawmill? If the river were swift it would be dangerous, I ex pect. I like to see the big muscles of a horse when he is pulling something heavy. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I hope it is fine until the Easter holidays are over, although the country could do with a good rain. The last two days we had to have school in the playshed while the carpenters were levelling the floor in the schoolroom. N, 7 that we are back in school we are all on ■one level floor, whereas before each rc / of seats was a step higher than the row in front of it. We had a holiday from school last Monday to celebrate the anniversary of Otago. I did not hear Commander Byrd lecturing while he was in Oamaru, but I think he would have some thrilling stories to tell about frozen regions. We have seven little fluffy ducklings. I think it is late for ducks, but this duck sat herself on nine eggs in the gorse hedge. Our other ducks, which are six months old, ar; laying, and.we receive about 10 eggs every morning. Thank you for the name yon gave my kitten. I like it. Kind regards to all. —Yours truly.

EYES OF BLUE (Otago).

[Somehow I like your late- ducklings. Eyes of Blue. The mother duck will have all she can do to keep them from mischief. Is the kitten settling down to his name too? It was a novelty to have school in the playshed. I hope you were all as quiet as mice to help the teacher while you were there—DOT.]

Dear - Dot, —The time has come when I take up my pen and write my retiring letter from the page. I have not been a very regular writer, but I think I could contribute a few lines every year, at least I shall do my best to do so. I have been working in Central Otago up Tarras way, or rather Lindis Valley. I liked it and the country very much. During my stay there I journeyed to Queenstown on my motor cycle. which is a Norton. . I arrived there one Saturday afternoon very hot and dusty. Sad to say that was the only fine weather I had there. Rain came on that night and kept on till Monday night. Tuesday was fine. I came back in the afternoon, after going to see the famous Kawarau dam. I see in the paper they are going to organise and try again. I hope they will be successful this time, as it seems big money to spend and have no return for it. I left there six weeks ago to try my luck at bigger wages. I came via Lindis Pass, Omarama, Kurow, Wai mate, Timaru, and Temuka. It is a long ride, 160 miles or more, and some places were very rough. Coming over the pass, which is 3300 ft above sea-level, is very pretty, and well worth a trip through. It is an ideal place for deer-stalking. I rather miss the hills, because where I live is all flat as far as I can see. Last year after harvest I was working on a chaffcutter. This year I am enjoying life on a threshing mill. My work is forking on the stack. It is hard work, but I like it. We are working on Rosewill, about three miles north-west of Timaru. The country is mostly rolling downs, growing beautiful crops of wheat and oats. Nearly every morning when it is clear just before the sun rises—we are working as soon as it is light enough—we can plainly see the Port Hills. Sometimes we can see the top of Mount Cook. From the same position we have a beautiful view of the Canterbury Plains. It just looks as though there were big plantations of trees, hut yet it does not seem like it when one is there. Last Thursday night a neighbour of ours had their house burnt to the ground. They saved a few things, but most of their belongings went up. They are living in one of them sheds, which will not be too pleasant.—Yours truly, THE FOREST KING (Temuka).

[Good-bye until Old Writers’ Week, Forest King. We shall welcome your letter then. It seems that to dam the Kawarau is well-nigh impossible, as there are other outlets to be closed too. What a sad thing about the house burning. These cold nights it is pitiful to think of anyone living in a shed. You have done some long distances on your motor cycle. It must be a reliable one.- —DOT.] "

Dear Dot, —May I join? We have three cows milking, but at the stert of the season we had six. We have 20 pio-g and two horses. I am in Standard VI at school and hope to gain my proficiency. I have three sisters who have left school. My mother has had a bad leg for about 11 weeks. I do not know any Little Folk who write to your page. There are about 15 in my class at school. We have three teachers and one assistant teacher. I go to Sunday school every Sunday, but do not go to church. I hope yon will accept me as one of your members. Love u>

all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Yours truly, TALL SUN FLOWER (Southland). [Welcome, Tali Sun Flower, Your name, being popular, is already on the book. You will soon grow to know the Little Folk. All the sisters can make mother’s work easy for her now that her leg is bad. She should rest it as much as she can, and keep it warm on the wintry days.—DOT.]

Dear Dot,—l feel so ashamed of myself for not writing before. 1 am quite shy. 1 am anxious to tell vou of ojir last trip into the bush. E Pari Ra, Muriel (our only friends) and myself bad been intending to go for some time. One wet morning we started; our destination being Lake Gully, a large pond or lagoon set in the centre of a deep gully. Just think how thrilled and excited we were when we started, as this was one of the few sites we had not seen. For four miles we followed the tram-line. Then we turned off into the beautiful bush. It was an old haulertrack, so we did not have to push much. The Suple-jack berries showed their brilliant red against the darker green of the vine and still darker green of the surrounding ferns. Sticks were gathered and we tried to force a fire. After encouraging, blowing and coaxing, a flame appeared. This went out when out potato s end onions were neatly placed round the fire to bake them. All this time we were eating sandwiches and cakes. The water boiled joyously in the billy so we made the tea. We turned our noses in the air at this and concluded it was a failure. Our beautifully cooked onions were swallowed, but those tiresome potatoes would not cook. They were left in our rather smoky fire while we continued on the last stage of our journey. Two hours scrambling, climbing, pushing, crawling' and sliding found us at the top. We decided it was too far to go down to the lake (so called here), so we slid back to our camping grounds, as walking was impossible. Those tiresome potatoes again were burnt. All the same we ate the best part of them. Muriel poached our eggs, which we ate on the remaining food. We packed our things and left the sweet earthy smells also the beautiful coloured flowers, berries, and birds behind. You will feel sure we were tired . that night after our 15-mile-wet-day-pic-nic. I now shall stop and pop off to bed. Oceans of love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, ROSY WINGS •(Mangatapu).

[What a picnic, Rosy Wings, and how well I can imagine it all! You must, have had a great time, and yet you would not have missed it, would you? I wish I could see the bush. It must be beautiful from your description of it. Do not be shy about writing dear. If you could see with what pleasure I read your letter you would never be shy again.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We were out shooting with a .22 long rifle the other day, and we shot eight rabbits the first time and nine the next time. The football season opens here next Saturday, and it is not before time, as I like it better than cricket. They are holding dances nearly every Saturday night, and there is generally a good crowd there. All our swimming is over, and it will not be long before the winter is really here. Our pet mouse, Skip, is dead. There was a slight skiff of snow on the mountain the other day, but it did not last long when the sun began- A number of people are wanting rain badly, as their tanks are dry.—Yours truly, FELIX THE CAT (Otago).

[Are you a footballer yourself, Felix the Cat? Most people are good at one of the sports, football or cricket, and sometimes equally good at both. Do you have snowballing when the winter comes? I can imagine the battles you have with One of the Dauntless Three. Do you put in much rifle practice?—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —Football season has opened again, and there was a dance here last Saturday night. I was there, and did not have a bad time. There was a good crowd for Oturchua on a Saturday night. There will be another dance next Saturday when the Oturchua team play their first match. There will also be pictures next Tuesday night. The name of the picture is “ The Adventurer,” with Tim M‘Coy acting. I suppose it will be a good one. I have been reading a good few books lately, the best being “ Frozen Inlet Post.” —Yours truly. ONE OF THE DAUNTLESS THREE (Oturchua).

[I have not seen the picture, so I cannot tell you if it is good, One of the Dauntless Three. I think you would like James Oliver Curwood’s books about the frozen places and the lives of trappers. If the team is successful there will be an extra happy dance. It is growing cold enough now in the evenings for dancing. In summer we fancy swimming and tennis for the evening sport.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was pleased to see my first letter in print. Thanks for the name of the calf. The other day our duck hatched out seven little ducklings. My sister and I often go for long rides. One rides the bicycle and the other rides the pony. I have a little sister four years- old. She is going to school after winter. I have a dolls’ big wicker perambulator, and I have twin dolls in it. The frost took most of our tomatoes this year, so we have only a few. We have a lovely song at school, “ Rio Grande.” We have many home lessons. Love tp all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Yours truly, SWIFT RUNNING WATER (South Canterbury).

[lf it is a big perambulator the twin dolls will be just right for it. Swift Running Water, They will not be able to quarrel with each other. I know that song. It is fun singing it in a big chorus. How young for the little sister to go to school! You will have to take great care of her. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —This is the first time I have written to you. I should very much like to join your Little Folk. I am in Standard V, and we are going to have our first term examination in three weeks’ time. I live in Anderson’s Bay. Our house has seven rooms. The front of it faces the road, but the sides and back are surrounded by paddocks. I have a cat and two kittens, and I should be very pleased if you -would give both kittens names.— Yours truly, JOLLY GLAD S MATE (Anderson’s Bay).

[Yes, you may be a member, Jolly Glad’s Mate. When that examination is over there will be holidays. That is one of the joys of examinations. They always come first and holidays last. Do you play in the paddocks or just keep around the house? Call the kittens Pounce and Pat.- —DOT.]

Dear Dot; —We have a small pup. Could you please give me a name for.it? The trees are pretty with yellow leaves. We had our school picnic on February 23. I am reading a book called “ Lorna Doone.” Have you read it? I have been walking to school for a few days, as my pony is lame. I have three and a-half miles to go. My cousin is staying with us, while her mother is having a holiday. My brother will be four- on April 26. Kindest regards to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly, OAK APPLE (Gimmerburn).

[Poor pony! I hope his foot is better soon, Oak Apple. Has he no shoe on? Are you going to make a cake for the little boy? A good plan is to put four little apples made of coloured icing on it, if he is too wee for candles. He has not long to remain only three years old, has he? I have read that book.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We have had our school picnic, and I won three shillings at it. The races arc over, and I did not go. Twinkling Stars and I stayed at home. When all the rest of the family had gone, we wished we had too, as it was so lonely. I spent 'the afternoon riding a horse. I went to the bazaar that night, and went in for nearly everything, and did not win anything. I am very fond of reading, and some of the books I have read lately are “ Anne of Green Gables,” “ The Gorilla Hunters,” “ The Young Fur Traders,” and “The World of Ice.” They are very interesting books. At least I think so. Love to all the Little I'oik and your own dear self. —Tours truly, . FLORIDA (Otago) [You are correct about the books, Florida. They are all interesting in different ways. Anne was a sweet child, was she not? You can read more about her, as there are five other books still to be enjoyed. It always seems lonely when the -family has gone away and one is left at home. Perhaps you will win something next time.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —The days seem to pass so quickly. All the farmers are wishing that it would rain. The grass is withering up. Football will soon be starting. There is a practice match here on Saturday. Last Saturday the Tennis Club held a Yankee tournament, but had only time for the singles. I won one set and lost the other. My father thought Alexander Watson good. The school children were swimming for their certificates, and Silver Fern and Boy were the only ones who swam 50 yards. We held our Guide Party last Friday 7 week. It was very enjoyable. There were 11 Guides from Palmerston. My brothers were wishing they could have gone. My mother found threepence in the cake. I was at Waikouaiti last Saturday 7 watching the cricket, and Dunback won by a great many runs. I have not seen Keep Smiling’s letter in for a good while. There is a tennis dance here next Saturday. Do you dance? We have two kittens, and mv sisters are wondering what to . call them. Could you please _ give them names? I have just finished reading “The Mistress of Hayenway.” I enjoyed it very much, as I like school tales. A good few men are unemployed. What a dreadful number are unemployed in New Zealand. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself. —Yours truly, POPPY 0’ FRANCE (Dunback).

[lt is a good thing mother was watching for threepences and did not swallow her lucky find, Poppy o’ France. Of course the boys wanted to go to the party. There is always such fun when a company has a birthday. Call the kittens Chap and Cub. That was splendid of Silver Fern and Farmer’s Boy. The children are swimming distances and trying for lifesaving certificates here too. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I was in Dundin for six weeks at Christmas for my holidays. I went to the Spit in the ferry steamer, and had a good time. I saw all of the old forts. I was sorry when it was time to go home, as I was having such a good time. I was glad when I came back to the country, as it rained the whole time I was in Dunedin. Next week the mill will be nere threshing our wheat. I am glad Bible class has started again, as I enjoy going to it. We shall be very busy at Easter, as, we are having a houseful of visitors. We washed to-day. and we used nearly all of the water, so if it does not rain we shall have to cart water. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. — Yours truly, LOVER OF THE HILLS (Livingstone).

[When it is not windy the Spit makes a good picnic place. Lover of the Hills. I wonder if you went along the mole? Tell me how often you go to Bible class. Is it every Sunday, or just once a fortnight? It is to be hoped it rains, or I can see some tired people bringing water to use at the house. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It seemed no time since the Old Writers wrote last year till they wrote again this year. We went to Trotter’s Gorge to-day. Easter- will soon be here again, and the sports are to be held on, Easter Saturday. I gained my proficiency at Mornington School at the end of last year, and you may imagine how pleased I was. I am staying with my grandmother, and we are milking 14 cows. I have a wee calf, and feed it night and morning. There is something the matter with our wireless, because it will not go properly. It stops and starts every now and then. Have not the days drawn in since the half hour has been taken off again? Best love to you and the Little Folk. —Yours truly,

CARELESS BIDDY (North Otago). [Yes, I can imagine that there was a happy girl when the proficiency results came out. Careless Biddy. The days seem shorter than they really are because the dark comes down so quickly. What have you named your calf? Grandmother will be pleased to have yon to help her. and I am sure you enjoy doing it.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —It is such a long time since I wrote to you, that I am sure you must

have forgotten me. We have had a horrible summer, so there has not been much swimming this season. I think I shall join a basket ball club this winter, as I think it is the best game of all. There was a fire here the other night. It did blaze too! One could see the glow all over the sky. I went to see “Rio Rita” last night. It was a beautiful picture. I have just finished reading “ The Jolliest Term on Record.” “ The Girl Crusoes,” “ Helena’s Dower,” and “ East Lynn.” They are all interesting books. I am a regular bookworm, and. like nothing better than a good 1 book. I read in the paper that there are not going to be any competitions this year. It will seem strange without them. The contractors have been busy near our; place doing the streets with bitumen. There has been nothing but graders, - tractors, or steam rollers everywhere we; looked. Between them they made a great noise. I can tell you. The children round about here were greatly interested in all that was going on too. But you will always find children where there is' machinery and any noise at all. Oreti’ Beach attracted great crowds in the few fine days we had this summer. As I am no good at writing letters, and news is; scarce in Invercargill, I shall close with' best wishes to you and all the Little Folk.—Yours truly. BLUEBIRD' MEANS HAPPINESS (Invercargill).

[I have not forgotten you. Bluebird Means Happiness, but I am glad to hear, from you again, I hope you will play well at basket ball. You must tell me how you fare. Reading books is good for you ifyou choose the right sorts of books. I have not read those you mention. Yes, children all love machinery 7. Perhaps some; of those who were watching will be engineers some day.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —This is my first letter to you this year. I am very lazy at letter-writ-, ing. I am in Standard V at school, and I have many lessons to do. The Agricultural and Pastoral Society’s Show was held at Lake Hayes, and we all went to it and had a mostenjoyable day. There was a concert in the evening. The singing was beautiful, and I enjoyed all the items. This year I have learned to do the fancy, aprons. I have just finished working a pretty 7 lady. Since the clocks were put back half an hour do you not notice the evenings creeping in? It was my sister’sbirthday on Saturday. She received some pretty presents. I do not think I have any more news to-night. With love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —- Yours truly. LADY ALICE (Arrowtown).

[I wonder why you are lazy 7 at letter; writing, Lady Alice. You write interest-, ingly, and should not feel so. I should like to see some of the aprons you have made. Did you give the lady a pretty face as well as a pretty 7 dress? Yes. the even; ings are drawing in very quickly. Wish your sister many happy returns of her birthday for me. —DOT.]

Dear Dot, —I have been to two since I last wrote to you, so I suppose you will want to know all about them. The first one I went to -was St. Patrick’s dance. I went to the sports in the afternoon and they were very thrilling. In the bicycle race a smash occurred. One of the riders must have found difficulty in the dust, because he went over the handlebars, and two other men followed him, and one was unable to stand up for a long time afterwards. The dance started about 8 o’clock, and as soon as I set my foot on the dance floor somebody came and asked me for a dance. We were still dancing at 11 o’clock, and all of a sudden the lights went out, but we still kept on dancing. They 7 opened one of the side doors and drove a car up to it, and put the lights on. The dance ended soon after the lights went out. The other dance I went to was held in the Rapaura Hall. It was really 7 a fancy dress ball, but I just went as myself. It was not an exceptionally good dance. I had about six dances and then I went home. I did not have a guess at the height of the aeroplane. Dot. but now I wish I had. because I guessed the right height of it before it was drawn. We have a gramophone now. and we have some, great fun with it. I have a camera now of my own. so one of these davs I shall send you a photograph of myself. I had to save 100 certificates for it. I have left the place I was working at. My eldest sister is 21 soon, and she is going to have a big dance at night. I think it will be lovely to have a dance at night. We have not had any rain for about three months now, and the rivers are so low that there is not enough power for the electric light. It has to be shut off from 10.30 p.m. until 5 a.m, and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. in the day-time. The people who have electric ranges will be in an awful fix, because they will not be able to cook the dinner. Well, I think it is about time I ended my letter, or else you will wonder how much more news I have to tell you. With best of love.—Yours truly,. PUSS PUSSY (Marlborough).

[I am glad that I did not see the smash, Puss Pussy. I do not like to witness anybody being hurt. You are a fortunate girl to be so popular at dances. Is it because you dance well, or because you have a pleasing manner. Perhaps because of both. Yes, I should like to have a photograph of you. thank you. You must describe your sister's dance to us. I hope it happens on a fine night.—DOT.]

Dear Dot. —I have just arrived home after a very 7 enjoyable day on the beach. Some of us went fishing off the rocks while others fished in the boat, and altogether we eaught six fish. Two of them are large ones, so they will make a good meal. On Friday night my cousin and I went out with spears and lanterns to see if we could spear some flounders. We were not lucky, as we caught only 7 one, so on Saturday 7 night we tried again. Four of us went out, but, as it was not a ealm night, we had no more luck than before. It seems strange that the light of the lanterns dazzles the fish at night, not only flounders, but sharks and herrings too. There arc only small sharks about here. Last Thursday week I went down to the Pelorous Sound sports meeting at Hopai and had a jolly 7 day. It was a long launch trip there and back, but it seemed longer coming back as it was dark most of the way up. We have a hen with 10 little chicks about eight days old. Some are yellow, some black, and one is brown. They were hatched outside, so they are

•wild little things and race under their mother’s wing as soon as anyone goes near. They will soon bcc'ome tamer, however, as they are in a coop now. To-day my friend and I gathered some ferns, which we are going to plant in a shady spot in a flower pot or in the garden. I have several big ferns growing in the garden, and they look lovely, as their fronds are always a bright green. It takes a grvat deal of care to make some of them grow. However, I must not take up too much space on your page. Kind regards to all.—Yours truly, PELOROUS JACK (Picton).

[Fishing seems to be one of your favourite sports, Pelorous Jack. If your namssake was a shark it was evidently his also, although he would not need to use a rod and line, nor yet a lantern with which to secure his prey. I liked to hear about your chickens. Is the brown one your favourite? I wish you good luck with your ferns.—DOT.],

Dear Dot, —I have been working in Dunedin for over two months now, and I like the town very much. My little sister has been down here too, but she and I are going home at Easter, because I am to help mother at home during the ■winter. A party of us went to Waipori in my uncle’s car one Sunday, and we had a glorious day. I had never been there before, and 1 thought the scenery was very beautiful. Uncle took us to Oamaru races on Anniversary Day, but it was so windy that we could hardly stand up. We spent a short time in the Oamaru Gardens, and what we saw of them was very beautiful. If Monkey Puzzle and Two Golden Wings see this letter I would like them to write to me, as I have lost their addresses. They just need to address the letters to my old address at Bannockburn. The nights are drawing in now, and we will soon have old winter knocking at our door. I never look forward to winter time, because I suffer terribly from chilblains. I am letting my hair grow long now. It has always been cut short, so I suppose it will feel funny to have it long. I think I shall close now, as I am beginning to feel sleepy. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours trulv STAR OF THE EAST (Dunedin).

, Dam glad that you like Dunedin, Star of the East. Do you go for any -walks around the city ? The climb to the cairn on I lagstaff is a very interesting one. I am sorry to hear about your suffering from chilblains. They are caused chiefly by poor circulation, so be sure that you take plenty of exercise and wear woollen stockings and wristbands now that winter is drawing on.—DOT.]

Dear Dot.- —Since I wrote to you last v e hav e all had our holidays and are back at school again, but it will not be long before we shall be having holidays again. My mother, father, and two sisters and I were down at Balclutha for the sports. One sister scored a first, but the ether one had the misfortune to take a bad turn in coming before we left, and was sick all the way* down. But otherwise we had a good week-end. I found a surprise awaiting me when I came home the other J went to Set into bed I found the blankets would not come off the bed, as they were sewn down. What a time 1 had taking the stitches out! I had to leave some till next day. We are having lovely weather here, but the nights a ? e , , c 0 , O nt ; does not mind the cold nights when the days are warm. Last Saturday there was a gala held at the beach to raise funds for the Improvement Society They had a lovely day, and there i? r n e cro , wd there - Love to the and yonrself.—Yours truly. ANOTHER OF THE MYSTERIOUS PAIR (Oamaru).

a pity that your sister took ill like that. Another of the Mysterious Pair But, perhaps, your other sister shared her puze Tilth her. That would cheer her. I have not heard of blankets being sewn down before. What an unpleasant surprise. J hope you did not eatch cold while you unstitched them.—DOT.]

tlear Dot, The lady whom Another of the Mysterious Pair and I worked for is in bed just now, so Another of the Mysterious Pair and I are chief housekeepers. The other week-end the children from work and I went to Kurow for the weekend, and all had a lovely time. We may be going again this week-end. We are all looking forward to going. I was working all day last Sunday, as there was nobody to stay with our lady, as it was Another of the Mysterious Pair’s day off, and while she was away I stitched up her bed. She said she had a great time taking the stitches out There was a gala held down at the bay last Saturday in aid of the improvement fund. It was a good day. and there was a great crowd there, so I expect they took a large amount of money Another of the Mysterious Pair and her two sisters and I went. We Quite enjoyed ourselves. Were you made an April Fool of? I was fortunate not to be. Well I will close now with love to the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly ONE OF THE MYSTERIOUS PAIR (Oamaru).

[I am sure that you and your friend enjoyed being housekeepers] One of the Mysterious Pair. Do you take turns cooking the meals? I heard about the trick you played on the blankets Where did you learn it? It is worse than having a bed apple-pied.” No. fortunately I was not made an April Fool. I was lucky, was 1 not. —DOT.] * «

Dear Dot.—Since last writing to you I have passed into Standard VI at school, and I hope to pass my proficiency examination at the end of the year. Our school jubilee was held in March, but we were not allowed to go to it. so we are going to have a high tea sometime near Easter. Lately I have been reading some books called “Magic for Marigold,” “Kathleen’s Adventures,” and “ The'Beggar Princess.” Have you read any of them? I received “ The Beggar Princess ” for my school prize. I shall be 13 on Sunday. Mum made my birthday cake to-day. We played a tennis match with the Enfield school girls to-day, and we won by 11 sets to 1. I am the captain. While we were playing, the boys played cricket, and Weston won. I have played in three tennis matches in Oamaru against other clubs, because they were short of a lady. We have been having dry weather, and we could do with some rain. Many people from here are carting water, but we have plenty. Love to you and all the Little Folk. —Yours truly, RILLA (Weston).

[You must tell me about the high tea, Rilla. 1 hope you enjoy yourselves at it. I have read “ Magic for Marigold,” but not the other books. Do you 'know the “Anne” stories by L. M. Montgomery, and the one in which Rilla (your nom de plume) is heroine? You must be able to play tennis well if you are chosen to play with adults. Perhaps it will rain soon. — DOT.]

Dear Dot, —The aeroplane arrived here on Sunday, and I went up in it on Tuesday afternoon. It was a lovely trip, but far too short, being only 10 minutes. I felt just the same as I do when I am travelling along in a motor car. But when it was caught in an air pocket and swooped down I felt a peculiar sensation. When the pilot shut off the engine, and the aeroplane began to glide down everythingseemed to whizz past until we touched the ground. We circled right round the valley, and everything below us looked so tiny. We went to Wyndham races about a fortnight ago, and had a very good time. \v e also went to a picnic held by the Oddfellows, and had a splendid time. People Sto arrive at the spot decided upon 11.30 a.m. We played rounders during the afternoon, while cigarette races, etc., were also held. The leaves are beginning to change colour now, and the red-brown and yellow blend beautifully with the green. A few of the trees have also,. lost their leaves. Apples and pears are practically the only fruits left now. Love to all the Little Folk and yourself.— lours truly.

TILLIE THE TOILER (Otago). lA Ol * J ’icky girl to have had an aeroplane flight, Tillie the Toiler. I wonder , I . ow many other Little Folk can say that n 7! iJ® done similarly. Net many, I should think, lour picnics seem to have been very successful. Did you win any races. Autumn is one of the most colourl!?* of seasons, especially in a country like New Zealand.—DOT.]

* * Dear Dot, I was pleased to see my nrst letter in print, and am sorry I did not write to you sooner. I shall be going for Proficiency certificate this year. Although I have written to you only once 1 nav e already three correspondents, and they all write to you. I shall be 13 on May 16. Our baby must be cutting teeth, because he puts everything we give him ins mouth and rubs his gums, n e ,- . as J have no more news, I shall close. Best love to all and your own dear self.— lours truly.

MOONLAND FAIRY (Otautau).

f 1/. y° u work well you will pass vour proficiency examination, Moonland Fairy. 1 wish you good luck. Your correspondents lost no tune in finding you, did they? . a™ fflad to hear that, and hope you will " •?> Y t°tne in regularly. How proud you wilt be to enter into your “ ’ teens,” Yes. 1 think that is what is the matter with DOT ] UaS he a b ° ne rhlg t 0 chew? —

Dear Dot, My school teacher told me to write to you and tell you that we are going to start our first term examination before Easter. It is going to be a hard examination, and the girl who is top deserves all the credit that is bestowed upon her. At Easter I am going to Queenstown for the holidays. After I come home 1 shall write and tell you all about the Jl’P-. have an uncle who lives at the Nevis. He is one of the very Old Writers to your page, but he is not too old 1o take an interest in the Little Folk’s letters. loii asked me what was the baby’s name. Well her name is Leslie. To-day we vent to cooking. One half of the class stuffed tomatoes, and the other half made tomato soup. . Yesterday I received a letter from Maid Marion of Sherwood. I was telling one of my mates that I wrote to sou. so she said she would write to you also. We learn French at school, but I do not like it. At present I am reading a book entitled “Gladly. Most Gladly.” by Nonna Bright.—Yours truly, JOLLY GLAD (Dunedin).

[Your teacher- was kind to tell you to write to me. Jolly Glad, and in return I wish you good fortune in the coming term examination. Let me know if you reach top place in the class. You will enjoy being at Queenstown.very much. Yes, write and let me know how you spend your time there. Vv ho is your Old Writer uncle? I lease give him my kind regards. You should try to like French, because if ever you travel you will find it a very valuable language to know.—DOT.]

Dear Dot, —We have a new teacher at our school. On Sunday morning our cat went away, and has not come back yet. We have said good-bye to daylight saving for another year. I rather like the halfhour, but the hour was too long, especially for the farmers. Have you ‘ read these books?—“ Deer foot in the Mountains,” and “ The Story of Captain Scott.” Our cow is off her milk owing to a bad udder. Our tanks were all going dry, and we had to cart water from the woolshed, which is about three chains from the house. All the farmers about here have finished their harvest. The apples are growing ripe in the orchard. My grandmother has a lovely flower growing in the garden. The name of it is red hot poker. Have you ever seen it? Well, I will have to close now. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self.—Yours truly.

BLACK EYE (Otago). [I hope your puss returns safely, Black Eye. Perhaps, if you ask him, he will tell you that he has been to London to look at the queen. I have read the you mention. Can nothing be done to make the cow better? Yes, I have seen a red hot poker flower. It has beautiful colours, has it not, and is very well named. —DOT.] '

Dear Dot, —I was glad to see my first letter in print. I have some wire netting with which to make the rabbit a run. Thank you very much for the name for my rabbit. We are milking 19 cows, and we have three pigs. There are two white ones. The other is a tan one. We have a car, and we go out on Sunday. I have about a mile to go to school. I like reading the Little Folk’s letters. It is not long until we shall have our holidays now. The fruit is ripe now. Love to all the Little Folk and your own dear self. —Yours trulv, SILVER HEELS (Round Hill). [Make the run roomy, Silver Heels, so that bunny will be able to stretch his legs, and see that it is not where he can burrow beneath the wire and so escape, or he may be caught by a cat or dog. And never for-

get to feed him, will you, because he depends on you for his life? You are fortunate to have a car. Can you drive it? —DOT.] NOTES. A Trim Up (Old Writer). —The addresses you asked for are S. Hall, Tuapeka West, and R. Rakiraki, Wilsher Bay, Kaka Point. I should make myseif known to the Little Folk you mention at the end of your letter, if I were you.— DOT. Megs Friend (Old Writer). —Red Cross Nurse sent her address for you. It is Mrs J. Stoddart, Tahakopa, Catlins District. Evidently the affection is mutual, for she mentions how great a friend vou were to her in Little Folk days.—DOT. AUTOS. Poppy o’ France (L. Rouxelle, Dunback) wishes to correspond with Happy Guide and Betty Jo and any other Little I 1 oik between the ages of 15 and 16. Will they please write first and send photographs ? Felix the Cat (Norman Devon, care of E. Hayes and Sons, Oturehua) would like to corespond with Red, White and Grey, Red Rata, Puss Pussy, Red Flower, Chocolate Fish, Eeyah, and Sago Pudding, also any other Little Folk between the ages of 13 and 14 years. Will they please write first and soon?

Lightning Flash (Gordon Laughton, Waipahi, South Otago) wishes to correspond with any Little Folk over 14. Will they please write first and soon? Red Hot Poker (Doris Howland, Maerewhenua) wishes to correspond with Pale Rose, Red Rata. Maori Chief, The Young Woodcutter, and any Little Foils willing. Will they please write first and soon? A Hebrew Maid (Margaret Johnstone, care of Dr Burns, 25 Park fkreet, Dunedin) wishes to correspond with any Little Folk over 18 years of age, and wishes them to write first and soon.

Squeaky Shoes (Kitty MacLennan. Dacre, Woodlands. Southland) wishes to correspond with Happy Guide, Swanee Girl, and A Prairie Child, and wants them to write first and soon.

One of the Dauntless Three (Sandy Smith, care of E. Hayes and Sons, Oturehua) wishes to correspond with Piri Piri. Captain Polly, Sunbonnet Sue, Another of the Mysterious Pair, Just Me. Fairy Fan. Heather Sprig, and Queen of Daunt. Curly Whirly (Hazel M'Leod, Mabel Bush) would like to correspond with Gay Girl. Will she write first and soon?