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Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 100, 30 April 1938, Page 12

.My Dear Children,

I must open our Hour ot Make-believe with an expression o£ sympathy with our Hawke’s Bay cousins who have suffered so dreadfully as a result of the devastating Hoods. These Hoods, said to be the worst in the district’s history, have wrought such enormous damage and loss of life that it assumes a major disaster, but with every means being employed to set matters right and bring succour to those in dire distress it is hoped that the suffering and danger will speedily be lessend. More recent reports are reassuring, for the waters are fast retreating and a return to normal conditions is in sight. We, who reside in more fortunate districts, little realise the magnitude of the visitation, but a perusal of photographs, describing scenes of Nature in one of its worst moods, serves to clearly demonstrate the unenviable experience through which the good folk in the submerged areas have bravely passed. However, it is ever a characteristic of New Zealanders that no matter how great misfortunes may be the trials are borne with a fortitude that compels deep admiration. Ere I pass to other matters let me send a special wish to all our Ites who reside in the Bay district; also a special cheerio to our J’utorino elan, many of whom, I learn, are having supplies dropped from aeroplanes, which must be for them a very novel experience. Perhaps in the not far distant future I may be able to publish letters from many of our clan who have passed through an episode in their lives that will not easily fade from their memories. The paramount thought in my mind at the moment, is, though, the concern—in the absence of definite news —I feel for their safety. I do hope no harm has befallen any of our Make-believers at Putorino. Cheerio, dears! The sun -will soon shine again.

Well, I’ve a great surprise for everyone to-day. After some months recess the S.P.C.A. Junior League begins activity with the great news of opening on May 7 a clinic for the treatment of pets. This clinic will perform a wonderful service and 1 am sure it will receive the just support and co-operation it deserves. Please read the. notes under the Junior League's heading in another column for all particulars in connection with this latest effort to help all our Dumb Friends when in sickness.

Now, next Saturday, May 7, 1938, our page will feature not only the establishment of the clinic, but we will pay homage to the most dearly-loved person in all the world—yes, “Mother!" May Bth is the the day set aside for the honour which is Mother's. What will you give her and how do you propose to show her of your love is a. thought which I know will occupy your thoughts until then. In the meantime I would welcome any little poems about “Mother.” I would like to receive them no later than next. Wednesday at the latest. "Will you help me make next Saturday’s issue a really wonderful one in honour of not just your mother or mine, but of every mother the. world over?

Now, cherubs, there’s very little time left of our game of Let’s Pretend, so I’ll conclude with a special thought for all who may be. in Sick Bay and a wish for their speedy recovery. All my love and kisses from your ever affectionate—

Wendy.