CORRESPONDENCE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6072, 8 January 1898, Page 4

CORRESPONDENCE.

THE STATE FARM.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, — The contributed article on State farming in Friday's issue of your paper is mosfc interesting, and especially so on account of the coming conference, to be held in Christchurch shortly, for the discussion of various schemes which have from time fco time been laid before the public. As I read tlie article jn yoxir paper, it seemed to me that, with a little determination on tho part of the whole community, we might soon really be able, to say that no man or woman in New Zealand need be idle, if only they have a sincere wish to find work. All difficulties are, I believe, really bogios, and, moreover, though at first the State might incur some expense, yet in the long run the finding employment for people would really lessen the amount now required for charitable aid purposes, besides which the children would be brought up to country life, which is a point. What nobler ambition can fill the minds of New Zealanders than that it should be said of their country, "There the unemployed problem has been solved." I am convinced, too, that the teaching of girls to farm would also tend to solve another difficulty; not as toilsome drudgery, but in a cheerful and happy spirit. Indeed, I think that the State farms should be bright and hopeful settlements, from which many may go forth strengthened and helped to start on a new life on their own account. I shall hope to make use of this article by taking it to the conference, for it is very encouraging, it seems to me, and it was a happy thing that it appeared in your paper just at this time. — I am, &c, LOUISA BLAKE.