OUR CHILDREN’S CORNER

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 168, 20 July 1935, Page 12

OUR CHILDREN’S CORNER

• THE PRIVATE DETECTIVE” POPS iN TO WISH CLAN A HAPPY CHEERIO. Dear Wendy—Here 1 aiu again turn ing up like a bad penny, and how i* everybody? Well and happy like inj self and in the best oi spirits. 1 haven’t very much news, Wendy, but :;s I have little to do at the moment I thought I’d scribble a few lines to let you know that 1 am still in the land* of the living. Since 1 last wrote ■Happy Jack,” of Weudytown, has xett ’joined in H->ly Matrimony. 1 haven’t heard, how “Aunty” is. The Lan 1 heard of her was from her son about a fortnight ago and he said if all was well “Aunty” would be com:ng out of the hospital on the Monday oi Tuesday, June 24 or 25. On a recent viyit to Wanganui I had the pleasure of meeting “Taffy.” “Miss McGinty” and myself were at the Plaza Theatre and in the interval no other person that “Taffy” came up the aisle. It’s about two years since I last saw him. 1 was also talking to Big Brother’s Pal” over the ’phone. 1 also looked up some people I know out in Gonville ami whom 1 hadn’t seen for about four years. Next time i come down, Wendy, I am (if I ’ssible) going to land in Wanganui aoout Io a.m. Do you think that I would Stable to have a look over the “Chronicle?” I would very much like to as I am very interested in all classes or machinery although I am an electrician. I had a good look over the power station about three years ago. I also want to have a look at the biscuit factory if they will allow me. The other Sunday about 20 golfers journeyed to Utiku. I was one of them and I was beaten as per usual. Mangaweka lost by seven games. Although we were beaten we had a very enjoyable day. the weather was what anyone could wish for—a lovely fine day. On Wednesday next we are journeying to Rangiwahia to play them, 'lhe weather here of late has been very cold and wet, but this last two or three days things haven’t been bo bad. I hope it’s fine for several days to come as I have quite a lot of line work to do. Well Wendy, I had better buzz eff’ now oi- else I’ll get the buzzer for taking up too much room. Cheerio now, the best of wishes and the kindset of regards to everybody. Your affectionate Ite, “THE PRIVATE DETECTIVE,” C.S.W.P., Wendy Ville. I am pleased to say that “Aunty” has returned home according to information I received from “Aunty’s Pal.” It is lovely to know that our W'endytown leader is recovered somewhat from her indisposition, isn’t it? Mr. Printerman would be delighted to show you over the works. Inquire for him at the main counter. The weather, in the main, has been dreadful here, too. However, the brighter days will soon be here now, won’t they, —Wendy. “THE LIGHTNING WAS LIKE GREAT SILVER SWORDS,” SAYS “ STRANGER. ” Dear Wendy,—Are you able to keep warm these cold mornings? It seems lovely at 6 in the mroning. If I could only stand alone how I would enjoy going out to see to the garden and animals. It seems to get cold towards nine and ten, but from then on it is lovely sitting in the sunshine sewing. On the Sunday we had a heavy thunderstorm. It struck the house and made it rock like a heavy earthquake. The thunder made such a noise through and under the house, and the lightning was like great silver swords dancing and flashing round the kitchen. I was here alone from four in the morning till twelve. I was not frightened, only wondered what w r ould happen next. What I did do was to cover my big bright scissors and hallstand mirror. Gne of the milkmen, when serving a customer, was dazed, but later went on serving the milk. The boy who helps on the round was picked up out of the ditch. Kindest wishes to Wendy —From * 1 STRANGER,’ ’ M.W.L*, Wendyhamlet. Gracious me, but what a dreadful storm it must have been. I think you very brave and courageous to be alone through it. What a miraculous escape the milkman had, and the puor boy who was thrown into the ditch would wonder whatever had happened. I hope no more storms of such intensity visit Marton again. My kindest regard and wishes from.—Wendy. “WE’VE HAD THE FIRST FINE DAY IN WEEKS!” EXCLAIMS “CLEMATIS IL’’ Dear Wendy,—We have had the first fine day in weeks in Raetihi, and it was a treat. My brother, Albert, is going with daddy to-morrow droving sheep. We all like to go with him. It is lovely to watch the dogs, and they all have different jobs to do. Old “Help” is a leading dog and it is marvellous to watch him taking the lead of the flock past motor-cars. If the sheep stop when a car approaches he slowly walks back and then leads them steadily past. Cheerio for now. Love.— From “CLEMATIS IL,” Raetihi. It is so lovely to have a nice sunny day after so many dreary and cold ones, isn’t it? We had two very sunny days recently, too. The doggies are wonderfully clever indeed, and often I have stood and watches them at work as a large flock of sheep passed me on the roadway.—Wendy. * • THE WEATHER CLERK HAS GIVEN US TWO FINE DAYS AT LAST!” EXCLAIMS “LITTLE CLOUDMAID.” Dear Wendy,—Rat! tat! tat! Please may J come in and rest awhile, as my legs are aching? The Weather Clerk has managed to give us two fine days at last! One of our cows is in now and we kept the calf. I suppose you thought I was lost, but I am not. How are you keeping these days, and also the Wendy Ites? Wendy, could you find me a pen-friend about 14 or 15 years of age please? If she puts her address in the paper I will write first. As news is scarce I will close. Best love to you and all the co-Ites.—l remain, your loving Ite, •“LITTLE CLOUDMAID,” C.W.K., Wainui.

Oh, goodness, yes, you must be cold coming from the land of snow and rain and icy wind! Yes, I did think you had become lost. One never knows these days what the old Witch is up to, either. I will try and see if I can discover a pen-pal for you.—Wendy.

“TRUE BLUE IN ALL THINGS’’

Enter

38i& — “Golden Waada-wings” 10 years “Princess Zabeth,” ......... H years “FnUofjoy” 12 years “Hoo-Mall-Mali” 15 years Dear Wendy—l have wanted to join your happy circle for a long time now. My sister, who is ‘ ‘ Somebody’s Lonely Sweetheart,” has been in the Hut for four vears, and is helping me to write this letter. I am 11 years old aud in Std. V. My little sister and I ride our bicycles to school for we go to the Wano-anui East School, and it’s too far for us to walk. May I have “Princess Elizabeth” for my pen-name, please, Wendy, if it has not been taken? It has been very cold, lately, hasn’t it? I’ll close this letter now, Wendy, hoping I can become one of your jolly clan, and wishing you and the other Ites lots of happiness. —I remain, your loving Ite, “PRINCESS ZABETH,” Wendyvale.

I am delighted to have you in our happy Land of Letters, dear. Ii is good, of your sister, * ‘ S.L.S., ” to help you with your letter. You are luck} to have cycles to ride to school, aren’t you? Goodness, but the pen-name you have asked for is in use, so let’s sup pose we have you “Princess Zabeth.” That is a gqod pen-name I think. Yes, it has been cold, but soon the sunn} days will come now. Write again, soon, won’t you? Give my regards to “S.L.S.” please.—Wendy. ■ • •* •

Dear Wendy,—l have been very interested in your pages for several years now, though to my knowledge I do not know one Wendyite personally, and just one, “White Forget-me-not,” by sight. She seems, judging by appearances, to be such an interesting and happy-go-lucky lady that at times I am tempted to speak to her, but being of a shy nature I have not as yet been courageous enough to take my courage in both hands and lay it at her feet, but who knows, some day I may. I have often thought that she must be a wonderfully kind lady like you. I go to 'Technical College aud some day, when I have sufficiently studied to pass all necessary examinations, I hope to be a school teacher. It has been my one ambition ever since I was old enough to understand the meaning of the word “career.” Well, Wendy, I must not make my first letter to you too long, so will close, hoping I may be admitted to your page under the nom-de-plume of “FULLOFJOY,” Gonville. Welcome to the Wendy Hut, my dear. I am so pleased you have decided to join our ranks. I hope you will soon know quite a number of our clan. I expect our “W.F.” will wonder whoever you can be when she reads your letter. I hope you will be able to realise your ambition. Study hard and lam sure you will. You may have the pen-name you have asked for.. Will you please send mo the date of your birth? —Wendy.

Dear Wendy,—l would like to join the Wendy Hut and I would like my pen-name to be “Golden Wings.” If there is another Ite called by that penname would you please choose one for me? Yours sincerely, “ GOLDEN WANDAWINGS,” Wangaehu. Welcome to the Wendy Hut, my dear. I am ever so happy to have you join our ranks. The pen-name you have asked for is in use but I have chosen another for you which I know you will like. Do write again soon, won’t you? —Wendy. * Dear Wendy,—May I join your merry band of Ites, and may I have for my pen-name (if it has not been taken) “Hoo-mali-mali”? I am working in town now as I left school last year. 1 like town life but I. love country life best as I miss my horse and all my pets. The winter weather makes everything seem very bare and desolate. Yours truly, “HOO-MALI-MALI,” Marton. Welcome to the Wendy Hut, my dear. I am delighted to have you in our happy clan of boys and girls. Yes, you may have the pen-name you have asked for. I. too, love the country. Never mind, the sunny days will soon be here now.—-Wendy.

My dear Children, —■ Before we commence our game of Make-believe to-(|ay I want to send a message of cheer to our “Miss Fortitude,” who lies very ill in hospital. Her loved ones are deeply concerned for her recovery, and 1 feel that our prayers, added to theirs, will help our Ite who lingers so near the crossing of the Great Divide. I am indebted to ‘“Stranger,” that worthy Ite of ours in Wendyhamlet, who has kept me informed of our “Miss Fortitude’s” condition for some considerable time. “Stranger’’ herself asks me to convey her message of cheer to every Ite who may be ill, also. Her wishes for them are for speedy recoveries. Some few Letterland days ago “Stranger’s Daughter” asked permission to write a story for our page, to vhich 1. agreed, and the story is published to-day in the form of a competition: WHAT LESSON DOES THIS STORY TEACH? A Story of a Rambler Rose. “Here, wind!” cried an impatient voice, “come and help a friend'in trouble, will you?” “Certainly,” replied the goodnatured wind, and on arriving at the front of the cottage, he found a long branch, of a climbing rose striving to get loose from some bands which held it fast. “Oh! help me, do,” it said, “help me to drag out this provoking nail that 1 may get free.” “Nonsense,” said the winch “That nail is there to train you properly, so that you may grow up to be a beautiful rose, covered with white blossoms.’’ “Just as if I didn't know my way up the wall without any of these stupid nails and strips of cloth!” exclaimed the rose angrily. “Well, but even if you know your way—and I’m not so sure of that—l doubt your having strength, to climb without any help.” “I dno’t care. I don’t choose to be tied!” cried the impatient branch again. If you don’t help me to get loose, I’ll tear away the nails myself.” “Have your own way then,” answered the wind sorrowfully, and with a little force he bent the branch forward until the nail was drawn from the wall, and the rose dropped to the ground. A heavy shower fell that night; it bent the untied branch down to the ground. “That delicious shower has done us all good,” cried every blade of grass, every flower, and tree. “It has not done me much good,” muttered the foolish branch,” as it lay stretched on the soaking ground, splashed all over with mud. “Well,” remarked the wind, “what do you say now to a few nails and a few shreds of cloth to keep you up out of the mud?” “I don’t choose to be tied!” the rose answered obstinately, “it is not at all great or grand to be nailed, or tied up! The sun isn’t nailed up.” “Why, my friend,” cried the wind, “nothing I know of in the whole world is more obedient than the sum A time to rise and a time to set are given to it each day, day by day a path is marked Jut for it in the heavens, and never does it stray from its appointed course.” For an instant the rose branch felt foolish, then it said sulkily, “Leave me alone, if you please,” aud the wind went away. “Friend,” said the branch another day to the wind, “I can sometimes get a glimpse of the rose-tree high above me, and when you move by me 1 smell its blossoms, and 1 haven’t a blossom nor a bud upon me. 1 want to be beautiful and grow to the top of the wall.’’ “Take my advice then,” said the wind, “and next time a kind hand fastens you up, don’t break loose again. The rose-tree would never have been anything but a straggler in the mud if it had not been for these many bonds.” “Then lift me up against lhe wall, good friend.” “Nay, that I cannot do, but I will do what I can.” Then the wind went off whistling loudly. It went to the drooping ash and knocked its branches against the window pane, until the man who lived in the cottage came out with a hammer and nails, saying, “There must be a creeper loose somewhere,” and he looked about till he saw the poor rose branch trailing piteously in the mud. “It wants a nail terribly,” he said. So he lifted it up and fastened it against the wall, and the bough clung humbly to the supports. “Oh ! what would I not give to be pure and sweet like the roses above me,” sighed the branch. “I might have been if I had not been so terribly proud.” The next night a gentle shower cleansed and freshened-its soiled leaves again. Time went on, and lo! one summer morning there hung upon the branch a cluster of blossoms, pure white and sweet. Then the wind said, “Would you not like to draw out all those provoking nails?” But the rose branch only loaded her old friend with fragrance, and said, “What! and let me down into the mud again? No thank you!”—“STRANGER’S DAUGHTER,” C.W.K., Wendyhamlet. The above competition is for all Ites under 14 years of age. For the best entry setting out the lesson “Stranger’s Daughter’s” story teaches will be awarded a prize of 2s 6d by her. Post your entry to reach me not later than July 29. Now, Ites, time flies, and so must I, or Mr. Printerman will be after me, so until next Make-believe Day I send you all my love and kisses from your affectionate

“SOON THE GARDENS WILL BE A BLAZE OF COLOUR,” SAYS “SMILING RON.” Dear Wendy,—After a long absence I am trying to push my way into the Hut again. How is the weather in Wanganui? 1 thought you may be thinking that I. was caught by the old Witch. Soon the gardens will be a blaze of colour with the daffodils, jonquils and snowdrops. All of the other flowers have died now. Our wattle-tree is in full bloom now aud it looks very beautiful. The fruit-trees have tinlittle buds which are ready to burst into leaves. 1 shall close now. I re main, your loving Ite. “SMILING RON,” Wainui. The weather has <cn changeable, dear, but the .-.u.iny days will not be long coming mnv that the shortest day is well | as.sed. Well, one never knows what that old Witch is up to. Won’t it be wonderful to see the spring bulbs in their gorgeous splendour. The wattle is early, isn’t it? —Wendy. “‘QUEEN OF BUNNIES” FINDS KNITTING A PLEASURABLE PASTIME Dear Wendy,—l am writing Lu you asking if you are in need ol peggy squares as 1 am knitting some. Mv sister has a cold. One of mv A-hool friends cut a girl’s toes off and she is in the hospital now. My friend and I cooked some potatoes outside in a bi(ly and had them with bread and butter for tea. My brother went over the bank in our car, but he did not get hurt. The car was badly smashed, though. Love to Wendy and all the Ites. —From “QUEEN OF THE BUNNIES,” Letterland. The squares will be very useful, dear, for someone to make into a quilt for the eold nights. Our “Aliidanie X’’ and “Aunty” made some ; .n yeass passed and they were wonderful. Oh, dear, but what a nasty accident! Potatoes cooked in their jackets are said to be very nice, ttoo. What an escape your brother had. I am sorry to hear the car is so badly damaged.—Wendy. “OSKER THE DAIRY LAD” POPS IN TO WISH EVERYONE A BRIGHT HELLO! Dear Wendy, While glancing through the Auckland Star, 1 noticed that .Poundy Young, who recently won his scholarship, passed the examination. for Batchelor of Arts. He intends io go to a university in England next, month. I went to the- concert last evening to hear Al.orie Keating, the famous Irish tenor sing “The Yodelling Cowboy,” with Bob Green. The Turangarcrc Orchestra played the overture, while Gandy Paradine was the leading man. The weather is very unpleasant here at. present. Bood-bye for the present. —From “OSKER THE DAIRY LAID,” Turangarere. What wonderful news you read of your friend, and what an honour to gain. 1 am sure you must have some wonderful concerts in your district. We have had some changeable weather here, too. However, with spring not now far off the sunny days will soon be here, won’t they?—Wendy.

“BRIGHT BLUE HEAVEN ’’ HAS BEEN BUSY WITH KNITTING NEEDLES DURING ABSENCE.

'Dear Wendy,— Here lam again after a long rest. The weather has been very wet here lately. J. have nearly finished the second jersey that L am making and 1 hope it will til mu. Our big black and white cow is in, and she is very wild, so we will have to keep out; of her way, won 't we? “ Blue Bells of Scotland” has her teeth now. It won’t be Jong now before it. is Christmas time. One of our school chums has gone away for a holiday. It is after seven o’clock and I should be in bed because I get up so early in the morn ing. The calf loves to play around in the paddock. The pup chases the birds ami tries to catch them. As I have no more news now I shall close. Best love to you and all the Ites. — I remain, your loving Ite, “ BRIGHT BLUE 11 EA VEN, ’ ’ C.W.K., Wainui. I am pleased to receive a visit from you this Make-believe Day, dear. Yes. the weather has been very cold indeed. Never mind, 1 hough, the sunny days will soon be here now. Knitting is both a. pleasurable and profitable pastime, isn’t it? The lime does fly. doesn’t it? It will soon be Christmas again, as you say.—Wendy. “I BELIEVE SPRING IS QUITE NEAR,” SAYS OPTIMISTIC “PINK PICKITTY.” Dear Wendy,-—As I have a few min utes on my hands 1 will let you know ligw Taihape and “Pink Piekitty” are faring. Well, although we are having rather cold weather here I believe spring is quite near. 1 hope so, as the winter so far has been rather cold. “Pink Piekitty” is quite well. I have a new pen-friend who lives in Suva. The Fijian .lubile stamp is a. lovely one, with the King’s head and Windsor Castle on it. Have you sen it? I think our own is as nice as any. 1 have .300 of them now. Thank you, Wendy, for considering my request, re stamps, as I am trying to get as many as I ran. I also have Australian and English .lubile stamps. Could you let me have the address of a girl, my age, in India or Africa, please.’ Peter and my goldfish are doing very well and lhe latter are. thriving wonderfully. The oilier morning when I got up their water was jusl covered with thick ire. I wasted no time in I'liuking it, eilher, bill I had io use a hammer and lie careful not !•> hurl lhe lisli al lhe same lime. I will sav an revoir now, Wendy, a.' I have been quite a while writing this iio'le. Love. From “PINK PICKITT\,” C.W.K., Taihape. It would appear that spring is jusl around the corner, dear, if one can judge by quite a- number of signs. 1 hope so for I have hid quite enough of lhe wintrv days. I 'think our New Zea.laml Jubilee s'ltunp lhe best 1 have seen so far. I 'll ask for a pen pal in lhe count ri<-' von mention. Faiu v ice forming upon the goldfish bowi. How < old it must have been. Wendy.

IT S LOVELY TO THINK SPRING IS NEAR,” SAYS “NA..CET GA x NOR. I’ ••('■ " eiidx, He.e lam 1; ' I” ;1 ‘-: 'HI r I W i ole la: I. Ii ’ Nam-.-i (laynor ’' who h -i. . Mind Oil, I ha \ ell j | ||—o | .'ll you aa I \ oil. lor page 12 in Nil .1 5 papei.' Nuw. 1 ” ’ll g>' e you a i u;. on w liy I delayed wr-iing. In th- first ph<-<- our school elosed iq . thi i e not |, r i enough pupil', so I had to ha\ e coi r -ponden. . I ssons, w.licit ate a 10. o. bother. 1 ‘Green I fill tert ly.' ' my .'i.-t. r, went iij. lo Auckland to High .'i-lio'd and is tii.- i very busy, while my brotdie:. “ -\rd Ih - E' plorer. ’ ’ and ‘ ‘ uinook ' ’ ha\ ■ almost grown up. or tlu-\ think s.». I •’iin haviii” th.- same dreadtul wea'.liui’ ■is” IS arshiiie." 1 have a pipe with basin, in which I put crumbs for the birds. 11 ni.-e to t hink t hat spring is near, isn't it.’ With love and kisses, I remain, your loving Ite, “ NANCE’I’ GAYNOh’,” C.W.K.. Wendycovc. A thousand welcomes, dear! I am pleased to welcome you to our m’.ds: oiie<| again. I did really think you had forgotten all about us. What a pity lhe school was discontinued. Never mind, perhaps one day it will ba re opened. Yes, 1 suppose our “B.T.E. ” and ••('■’ have grown quite elderly. I think it is lovely to feed the birds. It will la- lovely when one can sav “Spring is here!’’—Wendy. “HOLLY BERRY” POPS IN OUT OF xi-ixj COLu IO SIT AT HUT S FIRE. Dear Wendy,— Rat-a-tat-tatl May L come in as nis cold out here? Wed. Wendy, 1 must thank you very much for giving mu the honour of C.W.R. after my pen-name. We have our cousins staying with us but they will soon be returning home. How is the weather in Wanganui? It is verv rough up hen-. We have not. been to school for four days as the Terry Is very muddy. I went to the dentist for the first time last week to get one tooth out, but L had three out instead and a piece of my longue as well. Nut that it was necessary, but it was purely an aciddent. Aly sister is busy just now making a picture of silver ptiper which I. think will be very nice. Last Thurs day we wont tu play basketball at Queen’s I’ark, against Arttmoho, but it was too wet >o the match was post poned. Well, little hou. e full of hr.ppy Ites I must leave you so cheerio.- - From “HOLLY BERRY.” U.W.K., Wendy line. Why, of cu-urso you may come in. dear. There, there is a p'-uce right near the blazing h'gs. Horn lovely thave your cousins staying with you. What wc.illier you have had; it has been I very changeab.e here, but the w armer days will soon be here now and t-hen heigh oh! for wonderful games ont o? doors.—Wendy. A WELCOME VISIT FROM “MISS BUB.” Dear Wendy,— I have been wanting to write to you for a long time. Wendy, would you teli me whether you are a boy or a girl? I heard that you were a boy and was very disappointed tu hear it. I am not very good at writing letters. Is “Madcap” still a member of our Hut? She has been absent for a long lime, too. Do you ever go away fur a holiday? Well, news ishort now. Love. From “MISB BI B,” Wendy Garden. Goodness me, dear, but I have laughed over your letter. Fancy anyone imagining me to be a boy! Ami I cannot have you being disappointed. No, dear, your Wendy is just her own self and is not like Peter Pan who, of course, is a boy, and stranger still, has never grown up. “Madcap” is with us to-day. We could never do without her, could we? Yes, sometimes 1 go for holidays, but lately instead of suspending our page while I am away I have stayed near so that our clan can always have their game of Makebelieve every Saturday.—Wendy.

/’FOR AV. 1 felt LIKE PUL- ' L’ ■ T b'. vni)R CLERK TO PIECE"," SAYS "MADCAP." I '.-nr W en-' v \ id \v lint i> Ih > I [11.0:11- about our ••Next Beeler.” >aying a '-id far ■ , el. Dear Lady, don ’1 yon .know it i- iai >u> i!de lor you lo leave 11 • '.h-iii you might be, and <-<uiie not at all to our happy mud of letters, but still to.- a I ;:nyou are ‘-one of us,’ ; vnfl I for one -li.-ii| always keep you in renieuil>i-;a!i.-.. and I shall keep hoping that some <iay vve shall see a letter in our pages fioiii otir one, and only “?\ex’< Bester.” \ .nn letters have aAvays’ given me great pleasure. ‘A Stran ■ger’s iDuaght er' ’ was it who sent me that dei.gh: al souvenir. Thank von ever so much both for the gift am. the kindly thought that prompted the sending of it. I shall treasure it always. The unexpectedness of the gif; gives it an added va ue. I hope you: mother is faring ax well as can be expected. I have thought several times of dropping her a few lines but was not sui(> if she would care for me to do so. Give her my kind regards ami ac-. cept the same for yourself. Reahv, “Paddy r the Second Best Thing,” I’m not sure if 1 would be safe where von would put me. On the side of “Hut’s Bachelor’s” heaxl or was it “Hut’s Lucie’s. ’ I’m not quite sure and that page went. west. However, it is immaterial which. Yet wait a moment, is it? I'm u’t sure. Wait until I see whose head has the most hair. I think “Hut’s Bachelor." “Hut’s Uncle” has a married sort of look about him Both doth thou doubt my ability to ride a goal? Long ago I used lo rid* a pig and it had h". lo hang on to. But on second thoughts 1 would ralher “ Htil’s Bachelor” rude the “Hairy Goat.” 1 'in di a[>pointed about that goat. 1 thought he was a reaction of mine and as s.tuh I would have liked to gallop him ail over the p ace, but I find he i.-n i, therefore, I’ll be phased to see “Hal's Bachelor” have the mount on him. But uh my! what a gay and giddy ride 1 ’J; have perched on the side of “H.B.’s” head. After all f don’t think I’ll stay' there. A “Madcap” can stick tight to most any nead. but “H.B.’s” shoulders look nice and broad, then with a firm grip of hi* l hair I’ll be equal for anything, that is, of course, providing he sticks to the goat. I thinK “H. 8. you had better get the biggest pair of spurs you <-an Itud, ones with great big hooks, so that you can stick them into “Hairy Goat” and so have something to hand on with. I’ve been bucked off a pony and a motor-” byke” and I didn’t like cither experience ana goats have hard heads and horns and for all I know they may be able to kick. If “H.G.” did, where, oh, where, would you and L b«» “H.B. ”? I was glad to see you back even if your visit was short, also “Hut's Uncle.’’ W hiteforget inenot” surely knows how tu make y<m “old timers’’ toe the mark. I wish she would get busy after a few woro. I think “Old Grau” and “Old Bon” have gone to pastures new, or else they are snowed in somewhere. When in Wanganui I saw “Big Brother’s Pal.” I don’t think he knew me, for he did not speak. It was in a church wet. Did you see me “8.8. P. 1 also saw “Hut’s Best Man” and was sneaking to him for a few minutes. Hello! Sunray Sue.” Greetings to you. I hope mother and daddy reached home safely. And how is baby John? liton’t let him grow too fat, will you. I am sorry’ “Aunty” is having such a run of hard luck. 1 hope both she and her son have made a good recovery. Wendy, do you know where “Another Mystery” has got to? 1 used to so look forward to ner letters. I think I’ll have to give Hir Richard Elf an awful scolding if ho lets the Old Witch run oil with such precious members as have disappeared lately. There’s that “Scribo.” 1 know he is a busy person, but if he carl write two-minute rn ports nod make such a good job of it. I don’t sec why he cannut do his duly to the page, too. Anyway, “»Sexibo,'* I’d like to congratulate you on that report. It was great. We have been experiencing very cold and rough wea the.r, but the sun has been shining in a halfhearted way these la.-t couple of days. For awhile I felt like pulling the Weather Clerk to pieces; he seemed to bo giving us the worst weather he could find, but 1 thought better of it After all 1 suppose he knows best what he is doing, and it would be impossible to satisfy everybody at the same time so it would be useless to try. Anyhow, we are well past the shortest day, and , already’ there is a “springish” kind of feeling in the air. All the bird-folk are beginning to rejoice. 1 love to hear them now, there is something so indescribably sweet and gay in their notes now. Well, Wendy, dear, I think thiu “infliction has lasted as long as it should, and much longer than you have relished. Ktiil you know what a pe->i £ am without my telling you, dqn’t you? I always do run on and on. and all about nothing, 100. It’s just as well everybody hasn’t “ scriblding-itis ’ ’ bad as L The whole “Chronicle” office would take lo its heels if that, was the case, wtm'dn’t it? Then where would otir budget of daily news be? Well, L think enough is goo<l as a feast unless it is cho(*OJile> i so 1 'll put my pirn away and go ami do things with saucepans ami such. I do vvi'li we di<l not have to eat to live unless we could go ami browse like sheep or white but h-: lliiv.'. This eternal making of puddings and pies gets me down. [ hone in th ( « life to come I don’t have to cook or stoke. The amount of tending a lire needs to kvcp it going is simply amazing. If you aren’t hoajnng on coal and wood, you are stirring it up oi - something. Now, dear leader, and everyone. I’m oil*. \’es, really and truly this tin.!'. Cheerio Wendy and evervbodv. Best love to vou all. Emm ”M\Di Al’,” R.G.W.8.. Wendy-

■ “WELL. ‘VEILED PRINCESS,’ I’VE UNVEILED YOU!” EXCLAIMS OUR | "YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS." Dear Wendy,—Once again I pick up my la/.y pen to write to you. I wonder l it is the pen or the hand that guides lit iliaf is so lazy? Well, “Veiled i (’(if'-'-v, ” I’ve “ unveiledvou, and • I think I know who you are. Is it not > line that you were staying with reiaj l -ons of yours who are friends or mine |in To Kuiti, about two years ago? It. | looks and feels as if Mr. Jack Frost j w ill visit us to night. We have had | lively weathw lately; it's more like i spring than winter. I sav. “Hairy j Goat.” have you gone to the rorkv . mountainside lor lhe winter? I have [three triends working on the road just. . | outside our gate, so I am kept fairly ■ [busy trotting out, lo them with cups jof tea. I think my puppy must m I I a king singing lessons because he ii giving his voice a lot of exercise. Hr has to be kept on the chain or he gels 1 into mischief. Aly father brought n,s a wee rimu tree out of the bush ami I 1 was trotting round for about half an hour with the tree in one hand ami a spado in the other wondering whore would be lhe best plaee to plant it. H’s planted now, so I do hope it grows, but 1 suppose Jack Frost, Esq., will get it. Well, Wendy, dinner is on the table . and the cook will he annoyed if ] keep Hem wailing. Hoping this letter finds you well, as it leaves me. Love from . your true blue He.—“YELLOW ROSE . of TEXAS,” C.W.K., Arapae. Never mind, my dear, lazy or not, > here you are, and I am delighted lo - have you in our merry ranks to-day. . Oh, I wonder now’ if you have reallv i unearthed our “V.P.’s” identity? I i am glad you are keeping your friends ’ supplied with hot refreshments. Noth- ‘ ing is more acceptable to them, I ’in - sure. I hope the rimu tree will justify your faith and care of it. They an nice trees and a temporary cover of ' sacking will keep friend Jack Frost al ; bay.— Wendy. “I ENJOY SIR RICHARDS TALKS VERY MUCH,” SAyS “ONE C” THE JOANS.” , Dear Wendy,—Just a few linp.s, hoping you are well. Isn’t the Weather I Clerk giving us bad weather? I think ( I have found out who “Starshiue” D. . Do you know me, “Starshine”? 1 en- . joy Sir Richard’s talks very much, i Here is something you can ask him, [ Wendy, dear: Y’ou ask him if he has » heard of the kid that had four legs, and it lived in America. He will prob- ■ ably say “No!” Then you say, .“It's . mother was a goat.” Rut don’t, tell I who told you, for he might send the old ■ Witch after inc. I will close now as . news is scarce. Cheerio. Lots of love. From “ONE OF THE JOANS.” • C.W.K., Kai Iwi. 1 I cannot help but wonder what our Weather Clerk can be up -to. However, I expect he will soon make amends and send us some lovely sunny days. I played your little joke upon Sir Richard. and after his first look of surprise ’ ho laughted until I thought lie would never stop. I kept you a secret, though -Wendy. ( “I AM QUITE SURE MR W. CLERK IS VERY ILL,” SAYS “STAR j SHINE. ’ ’ Dear We.ndy,—l am very sorry, but , 1 am afraid I cannot write to you an.v , more. I send my regards to every Tie ( iu the Land of Make believe. On Tui <- • 'lay I wont to stay a few days with [ a neighbour. While I w&s there I cut my finger rather badly on a butcher’s knife. The cut is on the first finger on r my right hand, so I cannot write at all - w r ell as I have to hold the pen between i my second and third fingers. The wea- . thcr is just dreadful! I am quite sure i sure Mr. W. Clerk is very ill, or else • the old Witch has him in her clutches I Or schoolmaster knows the Paparangi 1 Ites’ master. Well, there is no more news. Good bye. Love to you and yom ? lies.—From “STARSHINE.” Kai Iwi. I am so sorry to hear that our clan ’ is to lose you from its midst, dear, be- ; cause you have always been so staunch • a member. Never mind, if it is to be. then we all wish you a. happy goodbye and wishes for your happiness and health. 1 hope the injury to your finger is soon healed. How sharp the knifi ‘ must have been. The Weather Clerk > does seem to be ill indeed, doesn’t he J Never mind the sunny davs will soon

be here now.—Wo .dy. “IT IS LITTLE CURLYLOCKS,’* EXCLAIMS OUR MERRY ITE. Dear Wendy,—-Knock! knock! knock I wondei 1 if you know who it is knock ing at your door? Well. 1 will tell you who it is. It is “Little Curlylocks.' I am very sorry I did not write to you before. I wonder how you and the Wendyites are keeping? I hope AL'Flu Germ has not got you in bi' clutches. 1 have escaped from him so far. Yesterday at school 1 fell over ami scraped mv arm a little. A fori night ago we had our exam at school and I came second. The girl who came first beat mo by one mark, but 1 am trying my best to come first next exam. The weather has been fairly cold, hasn’t it? During the Easter holidays my father, sister and I went for a motor tour to Hastings and Napier. Wo took our lent with us and camped iu Hastings camping grounds. We stopped there for a week. On Easter Saturday we went through to Napier for the day. \Y<- had a lovely time at Hastings ami Napier. Have you ever been to Hast ings or Napier. Wendy? They have improved Napier and Hastings quite a lot since the big earthquake. They are making them very beautiful. May 2S was my brother’s twenty-first birthday. In the evening we gave him a party. Wo invited about forty guests. We commenced the party about K o’clock and did not close till 1.39 a.m. Most of the evening we spent in pla\ ing games and competitions. During supper the large birthday cake, which iiad twenty-one candles on it, was brought into the room. My brother lit the candles and then gave a speech. After he blew the candles out. we all sang “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” Then my father put a record on the gramophone, which was “I’m Twenty on® To-day.” At the close of the even ing we all gathered in a ring to slug “ Auhl Lang Syne.” I see in last Saturday's page that “Auntie” has reco\ ■ ered from her illness, 1 must close now Wendy, as we are going to have tea. Love.' - From “ LITTLE CURLYLOCKS,” M.W.L., Kaitoke. What a surprise, dear, to have yoi pop in to-day. I am ever so pleased. Oh, no, I have managed to evade old Mr. ’Flu Germ so far. Bravo! 1 am happy to hear of your success. I hopt you gain top place next time. How nice to go camping. Yes, I have seei both towns. What a huge birthdav party your brother had. It is gOo4 news indeed to hear of “Aunty’s" re covery,—Wendy.