-THE WENDY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 71, Issue 219, 15 September 1928, Page 19 (Supplement)

-THE WENDY

My dear Children.— Oh, what an eventful week! For some days past we have all been wondering if the flight that was to be made across the Tasman by SquadronLeader Kingsford Smith and Flight-Lieutenant Ulni would really eventuate. For some time adverse weather conditions had prevented them from tak-ing-off on their attempt to conquer the Tasman. At last conditions improved and Kingsford Smith and his companions decided to commence their Mng flight on Wednesday evening. The huge 'plane was prepared, and the flyers saying farewell to their friends hopped off. Then commenced the flight that will long be remembered by you, my dears, as marking on the pages of history another link in the chain of aerial communication circumnavigating the whole world. What anxiety these intrepid airmen must have carried in their hearts, as throughout the long hours of the night the Southern Cross whirled swiftly on her way, and when the dawn came it found them within sight of the land that must have appeared very welcome to their tired eyes. You will still remember the tragedy of the first attempt made to cross thi« great expanse of water by air. Before the Southern Cross left on her voyage, two wreaths were placed on board, and during the flight, they were sent down to the restless bosom of the Tasman, as tributes to the memory of rhe two brave men who endeavoured to secure for New Zealand the laurels cf conquest. Perhaps some dav the tempestuous Tasman mav give up its secret. Who knows? I have now a great piece of news for you. The ‘ ‘Wendy Hut Relief Ship” that during the past weeks you have helped me equip, has sailed on her voyage of Kindness and Comfort. As I stood watching her depart I thought of ye” all, and I wondered if a joy as great as mine filled your hearts. Many of you I know sent me gifts for our “Ship" that otherwise would have brought for you pleasure and amusement, and my poor pen cannot write the thanks I would convey to you, my dears. I want you all to read “Guelda Rose’s" letter this week. In it she suggests that you send the postage stamps that enter your homes on letters and parcels to me. When I have accumulated a sufficient quantity I will siend them to Thos. E. Whitton, Esq., J.l’., Box 386, of Auckland. This genetieman receives these used stamps from many sources, and no matter how small the number they are always welcome. The proceeds from ♦he sale of these stamps is used in providing meals for children less fortunate than yourselves. Aou may include the stamps in your envelopes when writing to me. Be sure and nof damage them when removing the stamps, for damaged ones arc, of course, of no value. I must thank all those who sent me such large supplies of cards for the Exchange; especially “•flow Coach,’’ who forwarded me a huge box full. I thank you very much. Last week I made mention of one of our Wendyite’s father who is in hospital, and I expressed the intention of sending him the first bunch of flowers I received. Just as soon as I reached the office on Monday morning I found that “Jonathan Jo had left for me a beautiful bunch of flowers. Oh, how grateful I was, and 1 thank my thoughtful Wendyite very much indeed. 1 must also thank “Dewdrop” for sending me a bunch of flowering currant and heather sprigs. I must now leave you for another week, so good-bye. mv dears. With a big hug and a kiss lor vou all from WENDY.

OUR CHILDREN'S CORNER