Peter Pan’s Post Box.

Waikato Times, Volume 111, Issue 18619, 23 April 1932, Page 15 (Supplement)

Peter Pan’s Post Box.

Noeline Falrbrother, Otorohanga—Welcome to the Circle, Noeline. We are so glad to have you Join us and hope to hear often from you now. Yes, yon may have “ Oona ” for a pen-name.—Peter Pan.

Beryl Clothier, Hamilton. —The day! have been cold and wet, haven’t they Beryl? winter will soon be here In ful swing now.—Peter Pan.

“ Fairy Twinkle,” Hamilton. —lt Is a long time since you last wrote, “ Fairy Twinkle.” The kittens must be run to watch. They adore playing wth paper.— Peter Pan. ....

“ Mignonette,” Frankton. —You must have had a ripping holiday at the Children’s Camp, “ Mignonette.” We can Imagine how sunburnt you must have become. Write again soon.—Peter Pan.

Jessie Clothier, Hamilton —Welcome Jessie. We’d adore to have you Join us, and are looking forward to loads of Interesting letters from you now. Write again soon.—Peter Pan.

Peggy Adams, Claudelanda.— What ages It Is since we last heard from you, Peggy. Your letter was a very happy surprise. Write again soon.—Peter Pan.

" Quy Nlenzloa,” Matangl. —Such a Jolly surprise, “Buy Mensles.” We thought you had forgotten all about us. Did you have any luck In the races on the Field Day?—-Peter Pan.

Ruth Fell, Tlrau.— We're sorry, Ruth, but “ Dancing Doll" has already been chosen for a pen-name. Is there another you would like? —Peter Pan.

“ Silvery Waves,” Otorohanga.— So you are resigning, “Silvery Waves”? We will miss your Jolly letters. We lookback over the years and remember their regular arrival, rull of news and Interest. Good luck to you!—Peter Pan.

“ Silver Lining,” Frankton. —What amazing stories you acquire, “ Silver Lining ” ! is this a true oine? Peter Pan would never have had the wits to discover so ingenious a way at acquiring “ forbidden fruit.”—Peter Pan.

Irena Bragmen, Frankton. —Welcome, Irene. It’s very Jolly to have you join us. Yes, we’d adore to hear all about your holidays; you hurry up and tell us everything!—Peter Pan.

“ Btar Twinkles," Claudolands. —Yes, Peter Pan has read “Indiana Jane,” Mavis, and enjoyed It Immensely. He hopes you will, too. Yes,.Peter Pan saw the sports and was very ‘interested. Good luck to you In your examinations.—Peter Pan.

Doris Marr, Komakorou. —What fun catching the rabbit, Doris. The kitten must havef Tightened it, though. We’re sorry, but “ Happy Days ” has already been chosen for a pen-name. Is there another you would like?—Peter Pan.

Betty Newport, Tlrau. —Welcome Betty. We’d love to have you with us. Yet, you may have the pen-nam eyou want. We have quite a little colony of Circle members In Tlrau now.—Peter Pan.

Iris Aiken, Horsham Downs.— We really thought you had forgotton all about us, Iris, so your letter was a Jolly surprise. You may have “ Alladlnetta ’ for a penname, and write again soon.—Peter Pan.

Jim Barrowolough, Rlorrrnsvllle.— Thanks for the verse Jim. We will use It. We could not find you on the Circle register. Are you a new member? If s<> fill In a form and send it to us, will you with all particulars?—Peter Pan.

Bert Fell, Tlrau. —Yes, certainly, you may join us, Bert. We are looking forward to lots more letters from you now. And you may have the pen-name yon want, too.—Peter Pan.

Mary McDonnell, Frankton. —We were so pleased to get your letter Mary. Tito chrysanthemum sounds such a pretty one. Peter Pan thinks they aro very pretty flowers.—Peter Pan.

AFTER A LONG TIME. Dear Peter Pan, —Now I am going- to try hard to get my Third Honours Hoard Card. By the way, have I got any marks towards it? I believe I have, but I am not quite sure. We have been having such rainy weather hero latlcy, and they say the moon came In wet, so I suppose we can look forward to a wot month. Rain turns Raglan Into a land or mud and water, I’m afraid. A little while ago water sports were heU over at Burgess' Bay, and we all went. Artor lunch, races and competitions were held and were greatly enjoyed by everyone. At hairpast two a party or us walked over the sandhills to the lake, and then down to the beach. Some Maori girls and boys did a p.oi and a haka on the beach, thus keeping the crowd amused Tor some, little time. Especially runny was little Lumony Rewton, who was dressed as a Maori chier. The last launch arrived back at the Terry wharT at five o’clock, and we were pleased to arrive home after our energetic day. I have given up my correspondence course, having spent three years at It. 1 now “sit In state” —I don't think 1 I think It woutd be a good Idea IT a storv competition every now and then were held, and the winning ones could be put in our Page. lam sure several or our Circle love writing stories. I for one do, and also I think ft Is moro Interesting reacting stories written by one’s fellowmembers. lam lsendng an entry Tor the Competition and hope it Is successful: however, ir It Isn’t I’ll Just “try again.” About two weeks ago a re-union for old settlers was held In, the Town Hall. There was a very large crowd, and oh! such a babble or voices! A snapshot was taken or the gathering and afternoon lea was served free to all. The meeting was very successful and everyone enjoyed it. A very large number or visitors came to Raglan for the Easter holidays, and though it was fine till Saturday we had a rainy Sunday and Monday.—“Loloma,” Raglan. You have eight, points towards your Third Honours Board Card now, “Loloma.” Yes, It seems ever such a long Ume since your last letter; we thought you had forgotten all about us, and wondered when wo would hear from you again. Write again soon.—Peter Pan.

« Twinklotoos,” Morrinsville. —It seems ages since we last had a potter from you, “ Twinklotoos.” What lovely holidays you hart at The Mount! Peter thinks It a marvellous place for a Holiday.—Peter Pan. “ Highland Lassie,” Morrinsville. —An Interesting letter, “ Highland hassle.” You evidently had a busy day at Brownies with your baking and darning. Write again soon.—Peter Pan. “ Ruffles, ” Cambridge. —You have 1 ? points towards a Card now, “ Unifies." Your letter was too untidy to read this week. Please try to Improve your writing and tidiness. And please address your letters to HAMILTON and not. Auckland, ns you have been doing. This seems all grumbles, so far—sorry!—-Peter Pan.

st The way to be happy oneself is to make others happy’*

“ Lilac,” Hamilton. —Yes, centuries It seems since we last had your letter, “ Lilac.” Write again soon.—Peter Pan. Joy Webster, Hamilton. —Welcome to the Circle, Joy. You forgot to send us the date or our birthday, so send It along soon, will you? Yes, you may have the pen-name you want.—Peter Pan. “ Lover of Animals,” Rotoknuri. —Thanks for the illmmiiwitert text. “ Lover of Animals.” Peter was most intrigued with it. Thanks for the motto, too.—Peter Pan. Davis Thomas, Parawera. —We have entered your birthday In our Book and you will be remembered when the time conies. Write again soon.—Peter Tan.

A NEW MEMBER. Dear Peter Pan, —I am writing to you to as kyou ir I can join your Circle. 1 liave been reading all the letters for a long time and 1 like them very much; so 1 made up my mind to write to you. I live at Pairlleld. I have a little brother called Claude, and a sister Doreen, and 1 have twelve stepbrothers and sisters, all of whom are married, and It mties me reel shy when their children call me "Uncle." We have eight cows, and us three children have one each to keep. My brother Claude Is at Bryant Home and I do miss him. May I have "The Warbler" for a pen-name, please?—Bernard Fell (12), Fairfield. Welcome to the Circle, Bernard. We are so glad to have you Join us. Yes, you may have "The Warbler" for a penname.—Peter Pan.

ON THE RIVER3ANK. Dear Peter Pan,—One sunny afternoon my sisters and I walked to the Waikato River, which Is about two miles from our house. We took some biscuits with us. There were a lot of other people there when wo arrived. One place we could get down to the river so we took oil our shoes and paddled In the cool water. There was a lot of sand so we made a big sand-castle with a tunnel through It. There were a good many acacia trees, and In one place there were some bee-hives and the bees were buzzing on the sand. Wo went along to the bridge and looked down and saw some eels splashing in the water. On the opposite side of the river were some sliver birches, which looked lovely with the sun shining on them. Arter a while we went back and watched some people swimming, but we did not go In becausd It was too cold. By and By Helene said we had better go home.—" Golden Bubbles" (9), Ohaupo. What a lovely day It must have been, "Golden Bubbles." Soon the days will be too cold for any more picnics.—Peter Pan. A VISIT TO ROTORUA. Dear Peter Pan, —I would like to describe to you some of the Incidents that occurred pn our way to Rotorua. The day broke fine —not a cloud In the clear blue sky. We departed at about one o’clock and had a quick and pleasant drive to Rotorua. Very soon we were driving along the shores of that majestic Lake Rotorua, with Mokoia Island resting in the centre. On driving a little further on we came upon some boiling pools, and as we drew closer a sulphurous odour assailed our nostrils. Gradually the landscape changed and we became more surrounded by the beautiful Yew Zealand native bush. Not long after this we altered our course and continued along a smaller road which led further up the hills. Above us were branches and vines of many trees, for they now met and formed an archway. Once we caught a glimpse, through the trees, far below us or the still, green waters of Lake Rotorua. By this time a fairly strong wind was blowing, and our father told us that maybe wo would be forced to walk a few miles to the house. Suddenly we came to a stop, for lying across the road was a huge tree, apparently blown over by the wind. One glance was sufficient to see the impossibility of passing It. There wa3 nothing ror it now but to trudge the rest of the way on foot. Taking a few articles out of the car. we began our wearisome Journey or three miles. ,Verv soon It grew dark and you could distinguish the road only by a hazy grey. On either side or the road were many glowworms, which twinkled like little lights. They were of all sizes and colours, some green, some red. some’ orange, and some snow-white. At last we reached the house very tired and hungry after our adventure on the road. Would you like to hear about some of the things we did while staying at this beautiful spot, Peter? —“Whirlwind" (12), Hamilton.

Sugli an interesting letter, “Wnirlwind.” Yes, please, we'd love to hear some more about It.—Peter Pan.

THE BIBLE CLASS CAMP. Dear Peter Pan, —This time I will endeavour to give you an account or my experiences at the Easter Bible Class Camp, which was held at Cambridge. On Thursday afternoon, arter being welcomed by some camp leaders, we went through the rooms to see on which botfrd our names were written. We found them on the board In Group II room, among those who were destined to be called “Builders.” We then made our beds with sackts or hay for mattresses. By this time we were all ready for the well-prepared tea which was served in the Sunday School, half a mile down the street. On Friday we were given a piece of paper with our names on, and these we pinned to our dresses. During the arternoon some went for a swim and then walked round the lake In the domain. At 6.30 on Saturday a number or us rose and went for a dip In the cold, clear water at the baths. After peeling the vegetables, a benzine tin or swedes, one or potatoes, some carrots and onions, and also a tin and a half of fruit, we attended the study circles. The afternoon was spent on the Sanatorium hill, and we arrived back for tea after a lovely drive. A concert, which consisted of items from each district, was held and was appreciated by all. Monday was visitors’ day, and after showing them round we adjourned to the Victoria Square Tor the sports. A very Interesting afternoon was spent by most, and, the evening meal being finished, Camoridge girls were presented with the shield. Ftev. nay was appointed to Ju2ge the group songs, and on hearing them awarded the “Builders” the most points. A pageant was witnessed by mariv snertators, ihe leading characters performing very well. Tills was followed bv a talk by Camp Mother, and onco In our own groups we were provided with rrutt-salad. ice-cream and sweets. Being the last night, we were given a certain amount of freedom, and we soon found ourselves enjoying pillow-fights. At midnight, however. we began to calm down, and soon peaceful snores issued from the occupants of hard beds. By breakfast time most of the rooms were clear and the beds emptied, and we departed by the to o'clock bus deeply regretting the Tact that, our holiday was over.—Mary Williamson, Puketaha. What a happy gathering you had at your camp, Mary. When Is the next one to be held?—Peter Pan,

HOW TO MAKE A WASTE-PAPER BASKET

Dear Peter Pan,—As there is not much news this week I am going to tell you how to make a useful waste-paper basket ror your ortlce. The following idea is copied from one or my books. "For a basket standing a foot high and 81n. In diameter you will want about half a yard of rug canvas, and two or three ounces of raffia; also a sheet of rairly stiff white cardboard, which can be obtained at any stationer’s. First cut out two circles the same size for the bottom of the basket, using a plate as a pattern. One circle must be of canvas, the other or cardboard. Tack up tho strip or canvas with ends sllghtlv overlapping, then work In the stats with your coloured raftla. Yow sew your circle of canvas to the bottom edge of the strip, and push down the circle of cardboard Inside the basket, so that It rests on the canvas circle and thus rorms a firm base. Place a strip of cardboard Inside the rolled canvas and attach this with brass paper-clips. Finish o(T the top of the basket by oversewing all around with ralßa, using rather large stitches for the purpose."—“Cherry" (16), Hamilton. Thanks for the Instructions, "Cherry.” We are sure that many will be pleased to have them.—Peter Pan.

MY BIRTHDAY. Dear Peter Pan, —Thank you for the birthday greetings. I looked to see if you had remembered me. I had a lovely birthday, although I did not have a party this time. I just had two little mends to tea. When we sat down to tea there was a beautiful birthday cake, which bad eight coloured candles round it, and a little Easter chicken In the middle. I will tell you some of the nice presents I got: a camera, a photo album, a dolly’s cot, a dear little weather cottage, four Easter eggs and some other things. I had a letter from my auntie and she told me that Tlddles had found three more little kittens. Peter and Paul are not very big yet, but Tlddles does not like them now she has got some new ones. l don’t think that Is fair, do you, Peter Pan? Gloria Hayes (8), Hamilton. No, Peter doe 3 not think It very ralr or Tlddles, Gloria. We’re glad that you had a happy birthday. Write again soon. —Peter Pan.

ABOUT DOGS. Dear Peter Pan, —Do you think dogs are intelligent animals? This time I will tell you about Newfoundland and St. Bernard dogs. They are much alike. St. Bernard dogs get their name from the monastery of Saint Bernard, in the Alps, between Switzerland ana Savay. The monastery Is on the highest part of the road across the mountains, and Is the highest In Europe. Here monks live all the year round with their dogs, doing a lot of good by saving the lives of lost travellers. After a storm these dogs go out, carrying rood, wine and clothing strapped to them, and search Tor lost people. When they find anyone burled In the snowdrifts they dig him out and bark for the monks to come and help them. Many lives have been saved this way. It is said this breed or dogs kept at Mount St. Bernard have all died out.

The .Newfoundland dogs are generally black and white. They are handsome dogs, with long curly hair, a bushy tall, large hanging ears and bright eyes. They

are very strong, Intelligent, kind and trusty, and are one of the best waterdogs. Many stories of the brightness or Newfoundland clogs are told, and people have been saved from drowning by them. A man staying ta the seaside had a fine Newfoundland dog called Captain who used to swim In the water and fetch things which his master threw in. One day another man brought his dog which fought Captain. Next day Captain took the dog out In the sea and nearly drowned him.—“ Bonny Bluebell," Ohaupo. An interesting letter, “Bonny Bluebell.’' Peter Pan Is very fond of dogs.—Peter Pan.

NATURE. Dear Peter Pan,—“Nature hath mada nothing so base but can read some instructions to the wisest of men.” I read l this little verse several days ago In a book that I happened to be reading and it struck vie at once that It seemed very true and wise. I am going to tell you about the different things I have noticed In Nature this month of April. Everywhere now In the bush are ripe berries and fruits. The koraka berries hang a mass of yellow; the tltokl, with Its scarlet and black berries, is a veritable wonderl; the taupata stems are a reddish orange cluster; on the ground lie fat purple tawa and fuchsia berries; the kohea trails a glory or orange Dalis. Orange, red, pellow, purple—what a tempting spread for the birds as they chatter their thanks to kind Mother 'Nature for her harvest. In the sheltered sunny valleys some trees have dropped most of their fruits, but others are fully vaunting their pride. The leaves of our own trees are still green and bright. Only a very rew native trees lose their leaves in a very cold winter. But It Is the trees that lhave been ntroduced from other lands that are preparing to shed their leafy clothing Just now. The leaves blush and fade, then drop down to the ground and make a warm brown rug for the earth near the tree root 3. The crickets are still singing on a warm sunny day. The real name for theso Insects Is Cicadas, but people call them crickets usually. They Jump around In the grass with the grasshoppers. Their little black bodies are seen on telegraph posts and tree trunks. When a very warm day comes they almost deafen you with their clamo/ir in the bush. In January they seem to be at their loudest. Tadpoles are easy to find at all stages. The oysters are also well In season again. I have not seen any since February. There are two kinds —the mud oysters and the rock oysters. The latter are much smaller and sweeter than the former. They are round clustered In masses on the rocks In the northern parts of New Zealand, while the others live only In mud. Garden seeds are ripening and dropping. They need careful watching If they are to be gathered and stored for next spring. There are many pretty flowers In bloom, especially cosmos, marigolds, geraniums, heather, dahlias and chrysanthemums. Peter, this time I havo had a try at guessing the Jumbled pen-names. I wonder ir It would matter ir I put this letter and the competition In the same envelope.— “Mickey Mouse," Ohinewai. No, It does not matter putting your letter In with the sompetition, "Mickey Mouse," as long as both are signed, etc. An interesting letter, thanks for It.—Peter Pan.