Our Birthday Book

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 90, 16 April 1932, Page 16 (Supplement)

Our Birthday Book

“MANY HAPPY RETURNS’’ OP THE DAY TO AKRIL 16— ‘Ave Marie,” Taihape. “Red Feather,” Marton. ‘ ‘ Spanish Queen, ’' Rata. “The Fanner’s Lad,” Bulls. ‘* Te Mataua a Main, ’ ’ Arakuhu. APRIL 17— “Golden Sundown,” Utiku. “ B aker Boy, ” Wavertey. “April Showers,, Aramoho. “Wee Too,” Aramoho. ‘ * Tunganekore, ’ ’ Kakatahi. “Waipuna Star,” Raetihi. APRIL 18— “Joy Bells,” Wanganui. “Buttercup Joe.” Wanganui. “Jolly Pat,” Waituna West. “Blue Gum Sprite,’’ Annagrove. N.S.W. APRIL 19— “Moon Man,” South Makirikiri. “Moon Moa,” Taihape. “June,” Arakuhu. .APRIL 20— “The Story Girl,” Ngutuwera. ‘ * Forget-Me-Not, ’ ’ Marton. “Violet Fairy,” Waveriey. ‘ ‘ Scaramouch©,” Wanganui. ‘‘ ‘ Lei Lani. ’ ’ Turakina. “Paradise Pigeon,” Marton. -\PRIL 21— “Hawthorne,” Okoia. “Rainbow Fairy,” Ohakune. “Happy Bush Maid,” Bangiwahia. ‘ ‘Kahurangi, ’ 7 Rakatu. APRIL 22 “Rose Petal,” Utiku. “Brave Heart,” Patea. “Bill Cody,” Utiku. “Black Hunter,” Sanson.

“NOW ON THE TRAIL TO THE 4000TH,” SAYS “PRINCESS BETTY.” - Dear Wendy,—l am going to tell you about our school picnic this week. Well, on the happy day, we left home at about ten o’clock and when we arrived quite a number had gathered thcH?, and had started games, so we joined in. We continued our games until 12 o’clock when we ail .at in the shade and had lunch. Next came the races, and, Wendy, you would have died laughing to see “Silverwings” and I in a threelegged race. We wore given a start, as I am such a “dud” at winning races that I always come first at the wrong end; anyway, we came second and two others tied for first, so we had to run it off again. Oh, dear! Wendy, I don’t know what happened to us but about half-way we capsized and fell. “Silverwings” hurt her arm and I hurt my legs, so we shared bruises equally, but although we were hurt wo could not stop laughing; we laughed until our sides nearly cracked. I don’t know whether we fainted at the thought of so many looking at us or what it was, but still we were game enough to try another, but failed to win again. Then we tried a sack race and oh, it was funny. I was getting along splendidly when my sack dropped off, so I crawled back into it and started off again, but I tripped on apiece of string which was tied to on© corner of my sack, and, of course, I tipped up again, which caused me to laugh even more than ever. All the Wendyites that were present had their photos taken. I quite suspected “Princess Waterlily” to be there, but she did not turn up. Yes, I know you well enough by sight, but have not actually spoken, to you; never mind, some day we might. Before I go on any further I must congratulate “White Forget-me-not” for her brave deed. I think she a very courageous Ite and of whom wo should all be proud. At last. Wendy, I have discovered who “Miss Scatterbrains” is. I know her well enough by sight, but never dreamt it was her, but as for “Dolores” I am none the wiser yet. I hope I will soon discover her, but anyway time will tell, won’t it, Wendy? Fancy, wo have reached our 3000th mark, and we are now on the trail to the 4000th. I will say cheerio to you and all Ites now. More next week. Love. From “PRINCESS BETTY,” Taihape. Well, well, well, but what a wonderful day you spent at the picnic, dear. School events such as there are always looked forward to very eagerly. I know it was always a day of rejoicing when I was at school. “Dolores” is indeed a puzzle, isn’t she? Time will tpll, though, as you say.—Wendy. OH. ITES, READ HERE OF OUR “SEA SPRITE’S” WONDERFUL ACCOMPLISHMENT. Dear Wendy,—l stayed at “Princess Winsome’s” homo for the Christmas and the New Year holidays and I had a wonderful time. We went for quite a number of picnics. “Fairy Goldwings” has been to the West Coast for a holiday, but she is home in Oamaru again, so will be writing to you soon. I’m quite sure I know who “Just Derry” is. If she had only been in Christchurch I could have obtained a position in a dentist’s rooms for her a week or two ago. Well, Wendy, I must tell you that I am now a lieutenant in the Girl Guides. I was greatly surprised when I was asked if 1 would care to take that position, and as you may guess, also very pleased. One of my best friends is captain of the company, which consists of 36 girls of 12 to 15 years of age. I am hoping “Princess Winsome” will be able to join up. I was rather interested in “Broken Axle’s” letter. I would like to correspond with her later. I am of purely Irish extraction myself, as my maternal grandparents came to Enzed from Ireland, and my own father came from Ireland, too. Mother was born in Now Zealand.—Your sincere Ite, “SEA SPRITE,” Christchurch. So jolly to have you with us again, this week, dear, and oh! what wonderful nows. I am more proud of you than I can express at your promotion in the Guides. I am, and always have been, most interested in the Guide movement, for I think it a wonderful organisation. Now, 1 am sure our “Just Derry” will be delighted. So you are Irish, too? Wouldn’t it have been splendid if she had been nearer so that you could have assisted her to gain a position? You are correct about her initials.—Wendy. “FAIRY KEWPIE” RETURNS FROM JOLLY HOLIDAY. Dear Wendy,—l hope you are quit© well, as I am at present. I am sorry I have not written for such a long time. I have been up to “Old Gumboot’s 77 place. He lives throe miles out of Taihape. The scenery is very pretty up that way. One day “Old Gumboot, 77 “Boysie” and myself went down to the creek to catch crayfish. On Easter Monday we went to the Mataroa sports. The steer-riding was very exciting and one rider was trampled on. During th© fine weather our teacher, Miss Swan, used to take us down to the river to swim. Aly Persian cat, “Fluff,” has a dear little kitten. It is so fat and playful. Would you please give me a name for it? The cosmos are coming ou‘ in my garden. I am enclosing a snap of myself for you, Wendy. I will close now. With heaps of love.—From “FAIRY KEWPIE, 7 ’ Ngaturi. How lucky you were to pay a visit to “Old Gumboot’s’ 7 home. What jolly times you must have spent together. The sports are always jolly affairs. The steer-riding is very exciting. It is a wonder more riders are not injured than are. A name for your kitten? Supposing we call him “Juno 7 ’? Oh, thanks for that snap. I shall put it away with all my other treasures.— Wendy. “WHAT A LARGE FAMILY YOU HAVE NOW,” REMARKS “LITTLE LORNA DOONE.” Dear Wendy,—Well, well, here I am again bobbing along like a jack-in-the-box to let you see I have not forgotten you yet. What a large family you have now, Wendy. I am getting on very well at school now, Wendy, and I like going very much now, now that I know all the children. The days are very short now, aren’t they, Wendy, and the nights are getting colder. The wintry daj’s will soon he here again. My aunty is knitting me a jumper for the winter. Well, dear Wendy, T must stop now, with heaps of love and kisses to yourself and all the Ites.—From vour loving Ite, 'LITTLE LORNA DOONE.’ Porowa. Our family is growing fast now, isn’t it? Every week sees many new members joining our merry ranks. I ar so pleased to learn you are getting o so nicely at school. ’ That is splendid How lovely of your aunty to knit yoi a warm jumper for the winter day©. You are Juekj.—Wendv

“STAR 0’ THE EAST” RETURNS AFTER GLORIOUS HOLIDAY IN CAPITAL. Dear Wendy,—l am sorry I have not written to you before, but I have been away holiday-making in W ' >ngton. I had a lovely time going to talkies and parties. I also had several long car drives all around Wellington and the surrounding district, but now it’s all over, so I’ll have to settle down • to home life again. Wo have been having some lovely sunny weather here lately, but to-day it has started to rain. I’m hoping it has cleared up by to-morrow, as we are going to our beach house at Plimmerton. I don’t suppose you were able to get away for Easter, Wendy, as I know the newspapers only have Good Friday. My girl-friend works at the Evening Standard oflice here, and I know she doesn't get a half-holiday or anything like that, so I suppose it is the same with you? Well, Wendy, I have a lot of back correspondence to make up after my holiday. I can see where I’ll be spending the whole afternoon writing letters. Oh dear me* Best wishes. —From ‘'STAR O’ THE EAST,” Palmerston North. I am ever so pleased to hear you spent such a jolly time on your holiday, dear. I will give the Ites you name your message. Holidays are very few and far between when one is engaged in •journalistic work. Your chum will vouch for that, I know. However, I did manage to spend an enjoyable time during the Easter-tide. Do write again soon, won’t you? Poor “8,8. P. ’s” mother passed over the Great Divide on April 1, dear. I do not suppose you have heard? —Wendy. | “I WAS LOOKING OUT FOR ITES,” SAYS “BETTY BLY.” Dear Wendy,—How are you getting on, as it leaves me quite well at the time of writing. I went to the air pageant in Wanganui and enjoyed it very much. I was looking out for Ites, but I did not see any that I knew. I liked the parachute jump best from a thousand feet. The airman was lucky that he was not hurt when he crashed. “Baby Elephant” and “Merry Jingle Bells” have been playing very well together to-day. This is all for now.—From “BETTY BLY,” Utiku. I am keeping quite well, thank you, dear, and I am pleased to hear you are, too. Oh, and so you attended the air pageant? Wasn’t it just wonderful? I wish you had met some of our Ites. I saw lots wearing their badges. It is Y' nice to hear how jolly my Ites play games together.—Wendy. “MIDGY’’ TELLS GOOD JOKE AGAINST HERSELF. Dear Wendy, —As it is raining I j thought I would write you a few lines. I must say I am a very neglectful Ite, but it is not because I do not think of you, but oh, Wendy, my hands hav- been that sore with cutting scrub that it took me all my time to handle a knife and fork without thinking about handling pens. We went to a picnic on March 7, It was a beautiful day for it and everyone seemed to have enjoyed themselves. It was held at the lake about a quarter of a mile from our place. Well, Wendy, I must tell you a very funny thing (funny to others but not to myself). When the race for girls of 14 years was being started a man came along to me and said, “Come along, girlie, what about you.’” Wendy, I know 1 am small, but I do not like other people to think so. Perhaps I might have had cheek enough to go in if the, schoolmaster had not been there, but as he was, I thought he might have wanted to know the reason why I was not attending school. “Midgy” was not having any, Anyway, I went in for the single women’s race and came first, so that was not bad for me. With love to you and all the Ites.—From ‘MIDGY,’ Ohinewai. 1 am so very pleased, dear, to have your welcome letter this week. I thought you had forgotten all about us. Gracious, br! you have been hard at work. Your hands must be sore indeed from, such hard work, but I do think you wonderful. What a lovely time jou had at the picnic. Oh, dear, but how you must have smiled when you were mistaken for someone quite small. Bravo! so you won the race.—Wendy. “LITTLE CLOUD MAID" HELPS DADDY HARVEST THE POTATOES. Dear Wendy,—l thought 1 had better write to you this week. The mail will soon be here, and I won’t have time to write a big letter this time. My big sister made a cart for the baby, and she likes it very much indeed. I hope you are keeping quite well and also “Aunty.” Daddy dug our potatoes last Saturday, and 1 picked them up for him, and we have four bags of potatoes. I will close, with best love to you, dear, and all the Wendyites-—I remain, your loving Ite. “LITTLE CLOUD MAID,” Wainui. How jolly of you to pay us a visit this Letterland Day, dear. How splendid of your sister to make the cart for your baby sister. The little dear will spend many happy hours playing with it, won’t she? I am keeping quite well, thank you. and I hope you, are. < too? What a lovely lot of potatoes you have for the winter.—Wendy. “I DO NOT WANT PINS STUCK INTO ME,” SAYS “HUT’S BIGGEST SISTER.’’ Dear Wendy,—Well, dear Wendy, this is something new for me to be writing this Letterland Day, but I must have put my lazy fit to one side. My jove, “Pippa,” you have me puzzled. I am afraid I don’t know you, but I am sure if you stay in Mangaweka very long our “P.D.” will be finding you out. Now, “Lily of Laguna,” I don’t want those pins stuck into me, so I am afraid I will just have to keep well out of your way, as I am sure needles would be worse than pins. So please, “Lily of Laguna,” do find out who your other sweetheart is, then by that time “Lily of Laguna’s Sweetheart” will have come to town. Well, dear Wendy, how is our dear “Old Gran”? I hope she is well. Last Wednesday 1 was down in the big city. We had a very enjoyable day. To-day it looks very much like rain, and I hope it does, as rain is needed very badly up this way. Well, dear, I will have to close now, or you will be getting tired of reading this , awful scribble. So best wishes to yourself and Ites. Your loving Ite I “HUT’S BIGGEST SISTER,” Wendy town. This is a surprise, dear. I am pleased you have written this week. I began to wonder if the Witch had carried you off. Goodness, no, it will never do to have pins, let alone needles, stuck into you. “Old Gran” is keeping well and is her usual jolly self. The rain is welcome, isn’t it?—Wendv.

| “IT WILL BE FUN GOING TO SCHOOL,” SAYS “OUR JOLLY BOY.” Dear Wendy,—Just a few lines, Wendy, to thank you for the birthday greetings. Thank you so much, Wendy. I am five now, but I am not going to school until after the winter as it is a long way. I will have to ride behind “Our Jockey Boy,” it will be fun going to school. “Our Jockey Boy” had a holiday from school so mother and father took us up to the Ohingaiti sports to see the steer-riding; it was real fun watching the men trying to ride the steers. When I grow up I would like to be able to ride them; perhaps I might, too. “Bab’s Chum” had to work, so she was not able to go. “The Villain” went. There was a concert and dance that night and “Bab’s Chum” and “Dancing Joan” went; they said dancing was more interesting than steer-riding, but I don’t think so, do you. Wendy? Hoping this finds you and co-Ites all well. Love. — From “OUR JOLLY BOY,”’ Mangaonoho. I hope, dear, you spent a very happy time on your birthday and received lots of nice presents. Gracious, but you are growing'up. Fancy, five years old. Won’t it be lovely when you can ride to school behind “Our Jockey Boy”? Oh, yes, the steer-riding is very exciting indeed. I wonder if some day you will just show the other riders how a steer should be ridden? One never knows, you know. Dear me, no, dancing could never be as exciting.— Wendy. I “MADCAP” SEEMS TO HAVE HAD | LUCK WITH WENDY KISSES,” ’ OBSERVES “LADY LAVENDER”. i Dear Wendy,—So poor “Madcap” ' has bad luck with Wendy kisses. I received mine to-day. I was sitting at the table when one blew in and came wafting against my check, so I presume it was mine. Thank you, Wendy. You certainly blew that one straight. Well. Wendy, I will close now. I hope the name I sign is not forgotten, I know it deserves to be. Oh, I almost forgot, “Let’s Pretend” sends her love (she has just been home for a day or two.) Love also. From “LADY' LAVENDER,” Waverloy. Yes, poor “Madcap” did have a battle royal with her Wendy kiss indeed, but gracious me! Fancy the one I sent you arriving in such fashion. I’.m sure the fairies must have been guiding it. Will you please give my warmest regards to our “Let’s Pretend.” I hope she writes soon, and you, too, dear.—Wendy. “I SAW LITTLE ‘CLEMERB’ BUT I DIDN’T THINK HE REMEMBERS ME.’’ SAYS “MYSTERY ME.” Dear Wendy,—l saw little “Clemerb” recently with his mother and father. He has fully recovered from his illness. I went to see him when he was in the hospital, but I don’t think he remembers me. Well, Wendy, I don’t know what I have been doing during the last month, but I have not been for a swim for over a month, and haven’t played tennis for about a fortnight, and as for writing letters! I have written about three, this making the fourth one, so I think I can safely say that I am getting lazy. We had a picture in aid of the school funds recently. The picture was “Pardon Us” with Laurel and Hardy as the star actors. It was really silly, but most of the children enjoyed it. and had some great laughs over it. Now, Wendy dear, I have done my “dooty” and written, so I shall close up. With lots of love and best wishes to you and all my fellow Ites. —I am, yours sincerely, “MYSTERY ME,” Raetihi. How jolly to hear such news of our little “Clemcrb.” We had a visit from him last Letterland Day, too. Perhaps the little man did not recognise you. I’m sure that had he done so he would never have passed you by. So long as the picture gave the young folk happiness that is all that really matters, isn’t it? Ever so many thanks for your help towards our 4000th Ite. It docs indeed loom large.—Wendy. DEAR “PRINCESS WINSOME” SPRINGS HAPPY SURPRISE. Dear Wendy.—You will think I am a long time in writing to you, but I am kept busy with my music and school work. I also do a lot of reading. I went in for two music examinations and am pleased to say I managed to pass in both. I am in Standard VI. now and next year I am going to high school if I get my proficiency. “Sea Sprite” stayed at our place for the Christmas and the New Year holidays, and we had great fun, and went for a lot of picnics. Every second Saturday night mother goes to the Wharenui School to a euchre and dance and I am allowed to go also. Another little girl I know goes, too, and we dance together, and one night we won the Monte Carlo. “Sea Sprite” goes, too. I go for quite a number of swims in the Wharenui baths, but it is getting rather cold now. We have no shop now, Wendy, but are living privately. We have a dear little bungalow just near where we had the shop. Last week-end “Sea Sprite” stayed at our place, and as we had two visitors May slept with me in my single bed, and my word, it was a tight squeeze. Well, Wendy, I will say au re voir for the pre- ' sent as May’s mother says tea is ready, i—l remain, vour loving Wendyite, “PRINCESS WINSOME.” Riccarton. How very pleased I nm to hear, dear, that you have done > well with your musical examinations. I am proud to hear of your accomplishments. How jolly to have had “Sea Sprite” stay with you. Oh, goodness, but fancy carrying off the Monte Carlo prize. A thousand thanks for that wonderful little Easter greeting’s card containing, your photo. I have placed it together with all my other treasures. —Wendy. “BROWN EYES” MEETS WITH SOME FELLOW ITES AT PAGEANT. Dear Wendy,—l went to Wanganui to the air pageant, and the first person I banged into was “W.V. ” I I said “hullo” to her, and she just glared at me, so I said, “Don’t you know who I am?” and she said “No.” I told her I was “Brown Eyes,” and didn’t she get a shock. I did chuckle afterwards; fancy her forgetting me. I went a bit further and I met “Sally Horner” and “Bluebird,” who attend the Wanganui Girls’ College. I also saw them at the air pageant in the afternoon. I must bring this to an end now. Best of love.—From “BROWN EYES,” C.W.K., Waverley. Gracious, but what a surprise our “W.V.” must have received when you spoke to her. I can well imagine her exclamation of delight at meeting with you again. I am pleased, too, that >ou met our “Sally Horner” and “Bluebird” at the pageant.—Wendy.

“I FEEL LIKE DOING SOMETHING VERY DRASTIC.” SAYS ‘‘WHITE WATTLE.” Dear Wendy,—l tried in vain to persuade a friend of mine to join our band a little while ago, but I might as well have talked to the gate post, as I think it went in one ear and out the other. I must admit he passed some very nice remarks about the Wendy Hut badge; in fact, he kept it for a week, and he wouldn’t give it back, try as I would. When I found out he wasn’t very fast in giving it back I quite thought ho was going to write to you, but no fear. Later I received my badge, and he never said a single word about joining. I felt like doling something very drastic, I can assure you, Wendy. Did you go to the air pageant? I couldn’t, worse luck; it would have been lovely to have been able to go though. Never mind, quite a lot came over this way going to and from the pageant; I saw thirteen in five days and later Captain MacGregor and Mr. Fraser came over to land in a paddock about five miles from here. I saw Mr. Fraser come down in the parachute twice and Captain MacGregor did a lot of hair-raising stunts. It was very thrilling and we could see them quite plainly from Here. Well, Wendy, I can’t find any more news this week, so will close. —I remain, vour everloving Ite, “WHITE WATTLE,” Marton. Now, that was jolly of you, dear, to *ry and gain a new member for our clan. Perhaps later he may reconsider. Yes, I attended the pageant. The ’planes were very wonderful indeed. The parachute descents were thrilling. I saw Mr. Fraser fnake two jumps here. —Wendy. “PHANTASY” PAYS PROMISED VISIT TO LAND OF LETTERS. Dear Wendy,—l am in Hawera now, Wendy. I have been here for three months and I like it very much. I am working in a tea-rooms. I was here for the Hawera jubilee. Oh, Wendy, we had a great time, but best of all was the jubilee ball. It was great. My girl friend and I went; we all went in fancy dress. I need not say that we were all sorry when the celebrations came to au end. The town seemed dead for a week after, but everyone seems to be getting back to normal again, and looking forward for another jubilee. How is our friend the Weather Clerk treating you, Wendy? We have had some beautiful weather lately, but to-day it’s neither one thing or the other. It’s one of those days that gives you a fit of the blues. There isn’t much news to tell you, Wendy, so I think I’ll close. I am enclosing some used stamps, they may help to swell your collection. With kindest regards to all.—l remain, with love, from “PHANTASY,” Hawera. Yes. I expect you did spend a jolly time during the jubilee celebrations. It does take a while for everyone to settle down after so much excitement, doesn’t it? Oh, but the Weather Clerk is behaving splendidly indeed. Many thanks for stamps, and do write again soon, won’t you?—Wendy. “OHINGAITI WILL HAVE TO WATCH OUT NOW THEY HAVE •KELLY’ GANG,” SAYS “MY JOLLY BOY.” Dear Wendy,— “Our Jockey Boy” and I would have loved to have gone to “Aunty’s” picnic, but “Bab’s Chum” had to work that day; her halfday is Saturday, and “Dancing Joan” | was not at home, so there was no one !to take us. Ohingaiti will have to watch out now they have that “Kelly” i gang up there. I hope they do not ■ frighten the mice from Wendytown. | Goodness. Wendy, has not summer just . flown? It seems no time since last , winter. Well. Wendy, I have to close :■ now. Hoping this finds you and coi Ites all well as it leaves me. —From j “MY JOLLY BOY,” Mangaonoho. | Yes, it would have been lovely indeed i if you could have gone to “Aunty’s” picnic. However, perhaps next year you will be able to. I suppose everyone | will be very afraid now that Wendy--1 town’s “Kelly” gang has grown so ! large? The summer days soon passed ■ away, didn’t they? Oh! but whose letter was that enclosed in your letter, dear. It was unsigned, so I didn’t know who it could be from.—Wendy. “LAUGHING LILAC” DESCRIBES HAPPY GATHERING OF ITES. “Dear Wendy,—l must tell you about “Silverwings” and “Princess Betty.” They were partners in a three-legged race and they clashed half-way and ended in rather a muddle. I was in the same race, and my partner and I didn't do so well. We hadn’t gone far before we hit the. ground and fell over ourselves. I nearly died laughing, but it never hurt us. I came second in a sack race and I fell on my face just as I neared the rope, and as I fell accidentally kicked the winner on the head. I was sorry ! having done so, and I was rather sorry for myself also, as I had hurt my hands a little. In short, like “Madcap,” “I was sorry enough for both.” Out of about 23 children there wore about 14 or 15 Ites, so we all had our photos, taken together. The snap included myself, “Princess Betty,” “Rough and Ready,” “Old Boot Lace,” “Jack Frost,” “Silverwings,” “Whiti Tama Huia,” “Blue Bells of Scotland.” “Little Cloud Maid,” “Bright Blue Heaven,” “Brown Wallflower” and “Old Gumboot.” I think that was all. “Taipo” and “The Black Knight” waren’t in it, as they weren’t there at the time it was taken. “Silverwings,” “Princess Betty” : nd I went in a married ladies’ three-legged race as there were not enough married ladies to compete. We all got started all right, but we three experienced a forced landing and we couldn’t get up for laughing. The boys’ wheelbarrow race was so comical. “The Black Knight” and “Jack Frost” had an easy win. If the snaps turn out alright I’ll send you some, that’s if you’d like one. I know who “A Bunch of Roses” is, and at last with much puzzling, and I must admit a little help, I have discovered “Miss Scatterbrains,” and I know her quite well by sight. I wonder if she knows me? But as for “Dolores” I’m still on her trail, but I’m blessed if I can find her out, although I’ve a slight idea and I think it may be right. I notice “Bush Bellbird” hasn’t written for ages. I loved reading her letters, too. Well, I suppose I had better say goodbye until next week. Well, I must go now, so cheerio everyone, until next time. Tons of love to all.—From your loving Ite, “LAUGHING LILAC,” C.W.K., Taihape. Goodness, dear, but it seemed to be a daywof tumbles, didn’t it? However, as no one was hurt, but laughter held sway, then that was all that really mattered. What a gathering of our clan. I would love a snap if they turn out nicely. Perhaps you will soon discover who our “Dolores” is. A real mystery, isn’t she? —W»ndy t

“SLEEPY HEAD” SEES ’PLANES AS THEY PASSED OVERHEAD. Dear Wendy,—There was such a number of aeroplanes flying over hero when the pageant was held in Wanganui. On the Saturday morning one went down and although we could hear it we could not see it as it was up above some clouds. Later, as they were all going home, one swooped down and almost touched the telephone wires. There were two lorry loads <>f Maoris stopped near our gate and I suppose the pilot thought he would give them a start. My father has gone down to the beach fishing, so we hope to have schnapper for breakfast. He went down to the beach at 4.30 a.m. this morning, but didn’t catch anything, although some other people caught two schnapper. I must bring this to a close now, or I shall need a whole page to myself. Heaps of love. —From your loving Ite, “SLEEPY HEAD,” Manutahi. What an exciting time for you to sc .11 the ’planes passing and re-pass-ing your home, dear. The pageant was really wonderful. I hope daddy had good luck. Fish is a fine food, isn’t it? —Wendy. “I MADE A BAD START, THOUGH.” SAYS OUR “MOTHER-IN-LAW.” Well, Wendy,—Here we are again, and I am sorry that I couldn’t write sooner, but I have had a poisoned finger, and so could write no letters at all. Thank you so much for the pleasant surprise that you gave me, and “Madame X” asked me to thank you on her behalf, too. Would you please tell us what the letters stand for? The “Queen of Hearts” says they are for ‘Consolation Star of the Wendy Pack,” but surely she is mistaken? We are very proud of our letters and still prouder of our Leader and we’ll always try to give the little folks a happier time. I made a very bad start, though, by taking some of these little folk along to visit the dental nurse; they didn’t enjoy the visit one little bit and just quietly neither did I. The nurse is every kind though and she certainly makes a good job of her work and isn’t it nice to see the kiddies with nice clean teeth and no toothache? “Ginger Mick,” there are a few nice carnations out, *and nights are nice and dark, but beware of the “Gander,” he tells tales. The weather is rather dry and we are wondering if the Weather Clerk is on holiday or having a little joke with us, as we did growl about all the rain he sent last winter. I have had a nice grey kitten given to me, and I jvas told* it is a great “mouser,” so “Mice” beware! Well, Wendy, I must go and feed some of your hungry Ites. With kindest regards to all in the Hut.—Yours sincerely, ‘MOTHER-IN-LAW,’ C.S.W.P.. Wendytown. Oh, dear, but what a translation our merry “Queen of Hearts” has placed upon your C.S.W.P. It is “Chief Steward of the Wendy Pen.” I am so sorry to hear you have had a poisoned fiiigcr. So painful, too. I hope it is now quite healed. Be careful, though, will you not. because we must always have our “Mother-in-law” with us now. Prevention is always much better than the pain of bad teeth, isn’t it?? Oh, dear, the poor “Mice,” now they will be “scared” indeed. My regards to “Madaiqe X,” please.—Wendy. ‘•WENDY. I HAVE LEARNED TO SWIM.” EXCLAIMS “YELLOW JONQUIL.” Dear Wendy,—l am so sorry for being so long in writing, but I have been so busy with my homework. Wendy, 1 have learned to swim. The day that I was to compete for my certificate I got the ’flu. We have had our Easter holidays and I had a wonderful time swimming at the beach. I went to see the band rotunda opened by Mr. Veitch. There was a great crowd of people there and the bandsmen were very pleased with the new rotunda. It will attract more people to tho beach in future. I am sending you some stamps.—l remain yours sincerely “YELLOW JONQUIL,” Wanganui. Now, this is really excellent indeed. Now, that is really excellent indeed. 1 am so pleased to hear you have learned to swim. How wretched that old Mr. ’Flu Germ should pay you a visit upon such an important day. The new band rotunda is a great asset to the beach indeed. Many thanks for stamps, dear. Your Order will bo conferred by Sir Ernest in his supplementary list he is now busy preparing.— Wendy. A LITTLE TOT WHO LOVES “OLD BEN’S” STORIES. Dear Wendy,—Another week has gone beyond recall, and another has started—a new week filled with new hopes and promises and full of beauty and splendour. “Aunty” and “Another Mystery” arc indeed gems. Would you ask them if they would do me the honour of corresponding with me? If they will, would they write first, care of you, as I, like other Ites, wish to remain a mystery if possible; also would “Private Detective” be my pen-pal, too? I was so pleased to see that “Bon” has paid us another visit. I have missed his yarns of late, as I used td read them to a small friend of lnin A': sa y s “Ben” to write to Wendy, please do, and I’ll be ever so good. Isn’t she a dear, Wendy? There is some native bush at the back of a friend of mine’s place. I love to wander there, everything is so beautifiul and sweet, so pure, my gaze wanders to the lily, and I am reminded of the text, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow.” And I think of a sermon I once read about the lilies and if I’m not broaching too much on “Hut’s Padre’s” territory, I’ll fell it to you next Letterland Day, that it may help you, as if has helped me. Now I will say cheerio. Oceans of love to you, Wendy, and my fellow Ites.—From “THE MYSTERIOUS LOVER.” Letterland. So pleased, dear, to have your welcome letter this week. 1 will draw the attention of the Ites whom you mention. What a dear little cherub to love our old “Ben’s” stories. He will often write now. I shall love to have your story about the lily.—Wendy.

“NANCY BELL” DRESSES PUPPIES IN DOLLY’S CLOTHES. Dear Wendy,— Oh! our pups are funny. I keep on dressing my puppy in my sister’s doll’s clothes and she makes me laugn. To-night my brother and I took the pups with us to feed the calves. We called them but received no answer, so we began to walk up the hill. We climbed to tho top and sat down for a rest. We could hear mother playing the piano, so we stayed and listened for a while. Then we came down tho hill with the pups after us yapping. The moon was hidden by the clouds, and most of the time we were falling over the rushes. Wendy, I would like a girl pen-friend about fourteen years of age in Wanganui. Well, Wendy, as the time is 25 minutes to 11 I think I will close. With love.—From your loving Ite, “NANCY BELL.” Mangamahu. The puppies ate dear, cheeky. little scamps, arc they not? They always . want to play, don’t they? How very funny the puppy must have looked dressed up like that. I will see if I can get you a pen-friend.—Wendy. JOLLY “THISTLEDOWN” SENDS JOKE. Dear Wendy,—Here’s a joke which I think is rather good:— Smith and Jones (a humourist) were working in a field together when Smith said: “Say, what is the first holiday after St. .Patrick’s Day?” Jones: “Oh, Good Friday.” Smith: “Well, that’ll be another holiday extra for us.” Jones: “But 1 think it’s on a Sunday. ’ ’ Sjnith: “Oh. heavens, falls on a Sunday, does it?” That joke, Wendy, lias not been copied, but really happened between people that we know. I have disguised the names, though. Well, Wendy dear, my newsbox is really empty, so I must away. Much love to all the Wendyites and yourself.—From vour sincere and “true blue” Ite, “THISTLEDOWN,” Waverley. “BRIGHT BLUE HEAVEN” SPRINGS SURPRISE VISIT. Dear Wendy,—l suppose you will call me “lazy bones” for not writing to you before this? Our cousin cut his knee with an axe, and it is very bad indeed. Dear Wendy, we are having some cold weather. I have no more news to tell you this time so I will close, with best love to you and tho Wendyites.—l remain, vour loving Ite. “BRIGHT BLUE HEAVEN,” Wainui. I am pleased indeed, dear, to have your welcome letter. I wondered what had become of you, ’tis true. Dear me, but what a painful accident your cousin met with. J. hope the injury is soon healed. Now, do write again soon, won’t you?—Wendy. “THE HUT’S GRAND-DAUGHTER” HAS JOLLY PEN-PALS. Dear Wendy,—l have two penfriends now, “Humming Bird” from Sanson and “Miss New South Wales” in Australia. They are both very jolly Ites indeed. I send “Miss New South Wales” the Wendy pages every time I write to her. I am so glad her sister joined. I must tell her to get some of her friends to join, too. We had visitors the other night, Wendy, and they didn’t go home until 12 o’clock. Daddy and. “.Bright Star of Heaven” went to Kimbolton (that is nearly to Ohingaiti), they reached home again at 7 p.m. We have a friend staying with us from Hawera : we used to know him when we lived in Hawke’s Bay. Well, Wendy, 1 will he taking up too much room, and as you have a big family I had better stop. I send my best love and kisses to you and all of vour 3063 Ites. Love.—From “THE HUT’S GRAND-DAUGHTER,” Marton Junction. How lovely to have such jolly penfriends. What interesting letters our Australian Ite must write to you. It was jolly of her sister to join, too. Yes, our band is growing to a huge size indeed. I wonder who will be our 4000th Ite?—Wendy. “WOOD VIOLET” WILL BE PUZZLED OVER THIS. Dear Wendy,—My word but you have a lot of Ites now. Wasn’t “Golden Emblem II.” lucky to bo the 3000th Ite? She will be quite proud of herself. Now, “Wood Violet,” I do feel sorry for you, but all tho saino I hope you have_a bit of a task finding me out. I saw you at the show with “Brown Eyes,” and you were standing beside me at one part of the time. Well, Wendy, as this is all the news this time I will close now. With Jove. —From your sincere Ite, “WOOD VIOLET’S SWEETHEART,” leyYes, dear, our Hut just keeps on growing and growing. I wonder just who will be the 4000th Ite?? “Golden Emblem 11. ” is lucky to be the 3000th. Gracious, but “Wood Violet” will be puzzled. And. you say at one time she stood quite near you? Well, well! Wendy. OUR OLD ITE “COUNTRY MOUSE.” PAYS A CALL. Dear Wendy,—Just a short note to let you know I am still alive. I am sending some stamps and a few tea coupons as 1 have them to spare. Perhaps there is an Ite who is saving them and would like a few more to complete the number of prints they require? We have had some beautiful rain, but there was only one fault and that was there wasn’t enough of it. Well, as the mail is due and news is scarce, I will close. Hoping you are keeping well. —Your old Ite, “COUNTRY MOUSE,” Otorohonga. P.S. Will you please thank “Another Mystery” for so kindly sending our pages to me? She is a dear. “C.M.” How pleased I am, dear, to have you with us this week. I wondered how you fared of late. Many thanks for the coupons. I sent them, on to “Bunty,” who required some to complete her set. The rain was much needed. We have had quite a few heavy downpours of late. It was kind of “Another Mystery” to have the Hut pages sent on to you. She is a gem.—Wendy.

“THE NIGHTS SEEM TO BE LONG,” SAYS “GOLDEN SUNRISE.” e f Dear Wendy,—l suppose you are 1 quite surprised that I am writing to r y ? The nights seem to be long now. 9 The cows have to be milked yet. Wo ’ have an old pig that has some baby pigs, a One night two pigs were having a o fight and w were watching them. Well, e Wendy, I must close now. With lots S of love to all Ites. —From “GOLDEN '. SUNRISE,” ‘Wendytown. e Oh, but this is such a jolly surprise 9 you have sprung upon me, dear. The 3 wee piggies are such funny things, • aren’t they® I do Jove to watch them. 1 Now, I knew there was something - strange about your letter. I know s what it is, too. It is your first real • letter to me, isn’t it? I must tell you , I am pleased to sec just how well you can write. —Wendy. J “SCRTBO,” I SHOULD SAY YOU HAD KISSED THE BLARNEY 1 STONE, SAYS “MADCAP.” [ Dear Wendy,—Just a few lines this , week. “Scribo,” thou art worthy of | thy name, me thinks, and have thrilled ' me wonderfully, o’scribe, by deigning to mention me, but methinks more so [ that thou hast also been on a journey to fair “Erin’s Isle.” for without 3 saying you are “bewitched entirely,” i I should say you had kissed the “Blarr ney Stone” far more than is good—for other folk, myself not excluded. Had I the pen of a “Scribo” I’d put it to a f better use than flattering a madcap. Flattery goes to my head, and doesn’t - improve it any, and I am sure the cap you are endeavouring to put on me - would fit yourself much better, although it has delighted me to have had you make the attempt all the same. I almost wish you meant what you penJ nod, for I’d love to have a pen-friend such as I am sure you would prove to ’ be, but I’m afraid I truly am, and not alone for myself. Hast read, dear “Scribo,” what “Omnia Vincit Amor” , says? Well, if not, do so and beware. I might beg the favour of being your pen-friend and would but for the fear that you might turn round after and tell me you know me to your sorrow. Even a madcap might succumb to re- [ peated shocks of a like nature. All the r same to be quite honest I must confess ! I liked tho “sound” of myself in your I verse, and thank you so much for putf ting me in so nicely. “Dimples.” I > can readily believe you know who I am, I for I have relations up your way. In , fact. I think your father and my uncle are on rather friendly terms; at least I presume so, for they are both “doggy” ■> men. as is also my brother, and ’tis t said “birds of a feather flock together.” However, I seldom visit , your locality these days, though when ; I was a “lady of leisure” it was a favourite haunt of mine. Now, dear evedybody, I must be off until next i Lctterland Day, so cheerio. Love and ’ regards.—From “MADCAP,” Waitotara. “I HOPE YOU HAVEN’T CROSSED ME OFF THE ROLL,” SAYS “OUR BILL.” Dear Wendy,—Just a few lines to let 1 you know that I haven’t forgotten L you. I hope you haven’t crossed my J name off the roll. We went; to tho sports here and had a lovely time. There were steers, horses and ponies. The horses were jumping and the ponies also. When the men started to ‘ ride the steers they made a terrible ’ | noise. I bought some ice creams and a lot of other things. One of the men 1 received a kick in the eye from a steer 1 and had to go to the doctor. The ’ riders had to pay 5s to get on them. J i. must close now with love.—From “OUR BILL,” Mataroa. ■ So pleased to have your welcome ; letter, dear. Why, of course, I haven’t ’ erased your name from, our roll. J would never do that. Tho sports are jolly, aren’t they? What a painful accident befell the steer-rider. I am sorry, dear, but I have no more badges until some, arrive from the manufac1 turers. —Wendy. “I’VE BEEN OUT ON THE TRAIL OF ITES LATELY.” SAYS “RINTY.” Dear Wendy,—There is an old saying which runs, “Bad pennies always turn up.” Well, here is a very bad one turning up again in the form of “Rinty.” I have been out on tho trail of several Ites lately, but I am still no 1 wiser. Fancy, it is last November when you got my last letter. Since then I have had my holiday up at Dargavillc, and then settled down to school for another year. There was quite a budget from Taihape last Saturday, wasn’t there? I think it must have been that that woke me up. So we now have the 300th Ite. Congrats from “Rinty.” They have started basketball at school now, and have closed the baths. Of this I am ; very sorry, as hardly a day passed, but what I wasn’t in. Still it is beginning to get cold, isn’t it? I had my brother home for a week at Easter, and we had some great fun. We ail we t to Mataroa sports on Easter Monday, and T. saw* “Breezy Girl” there. I know her quite well now. Don’t you give marks for letters now, Wendy? Thank you for my birthday greetings of January. Rather late, aren’t 1? Did you have any April Fool jokes played on you? I had one. We will soon have to call Taihape something pertaining to Wendy, as every week there is an Ite or two joining from there. We have another school bail coming off in May. Well, Wendy dear, for all my long silence, I still have no news, so I am afraid I will have to close, promising to write again soon.—l remain, your canine pet, “RINTY,” Taihape. Ah, so here you afe, dear, now all our fears are at rest. The time does fly, doesn’t it? Fancy last November since you paid us a visit. Wonderful indeed to have our 3000th Ite with us. Isn’t “Golden Emblem II.” a lucky Ite? Yes, it is now rather too cold for swimming. Basketball is a great game, though, isn’t it? Our Merit Index will appear probably next week. No one seemed to remember to play April | I jokes here. I escaped, I am pleased to say.—Weudy. “WE COULD DO WITH MORE RAIN YET,” SAYS “MERRY JINGLE BELLS.” Dear Wendy,—How are you keeping now? “Baby Elephant” and I have had some good fun. Wendy, we have had some nice weather lately, but we could do with some more rain, as the gardens and tanks need a lot of water yet, as we have no town supply. This is all for now. With love.—From “MERRY JINGLE BELLS,” Utiku. I am keeping quite well, thank you, dear, and I am pleased to hear you are well and happy, too. The weather hah been splendid indeed. The ram that came was most welcome. Goodness, but it simply poured down here. The gardens and lawns appear ouite refrp,.«hed t too. —Wend v, N