News of the Unions.

White Ribbon, Volume 18, Issue 207, 18 September 1912, Page 3

News of the Unions.

(The Editor cannot promise to insert anything in the next issue tnat does not reach her t»y the Mth of the month. correspondents are requested to write i heir Heports as concisely as possime, on one sale of the pa|H*r only. .Newspaper cuttings art* unsuitable.) blenheim. Aug., in Wesley Hall. Mrs. Litchfield presiding. Mrs. hose read two very interest.ng papers. I he draw-ing-room meeting was held at .Mrs. Kell's, (‘harles-street. We had music and songs, and one or two pai>ers were read. NEW BRIGHTON. Aug. H, in Methodist I’nurch. Mesdantes >pratt ami Mcivinney were appointed to represent the t mon at the Provincial convention. Mrs. Hanham read a most interesting pal>er on “ Women in Civic and political Life," amt the pai»er proved a most enjoyable one. \\ AIM ATE. At our meeting x\e passed the following resolutions reiorring to the prohibition majority question am* the memlier for Waitakis vote : That this meeting of the W&iniate Women’s Christian lenqterance l 'nion, ramem tie ring the firm promise of Mr. K. H. Smith, that he would not vote against a Hill to reduce the majority respired to carry National Prohibition to 5."» per cent., learns with astonishment en<. regret that, disregarding nis solemn promise, he voted against Mr. Malcolm s Hill. Dishonesty of this kind la? too strongly condemned." “ That this meeting ot the Wtimbti Women’s Christian lenqKrance l nion is of opinion that the only just basis of settlement for the liquor question is by a majority of those voting, ami pledges itselt to refuse to record a vote in favour of candidates for parliament who will not pledge themselves to remove the gross injustice of the three-lifths majority." , AUCKLAND CENTRAL. Aug. 2X. Mrs. Pudnex presided. ** Crunchiae Pax." Mrs. hendely gave us an inspiring pal»er on “ Work for the Enfranchised,” rousing us to a fresh realisation of heavy responsibilities resting on us. A resolution against any legislation increasing totalisator iiermits or publishing its dividends was passed xvith unar nious voice, as xvas also one expressing regret and indignation at the recent refusal to reduce the three-lifths No-License handicap. Copies of these were forxvarded to the Premier and inemliers ot the Cabinet. A resolution xvas 'so brought forward and warmly i ipported. protesting against the compulsory clauses of the present lk»-

fence Act, and the depriving of conscientious objectors wnilst under the age ot 21 years ot their electoral rights in the future ; copies to be lorw&rded to the Premier, the Minister for Deience, and the Minister tor Justice, ami to Mr. isitt, M.P. Tne collection xvas dexoted 10 tne New /.ealand funds. Correspondence dealt xvith and arrangements discussed lor our District Convention on the 25th Sept. Ihe resignation 01 our beloved president, Mrs. Ik* war, xvho has so long and lovingly served our I nion as its honoured head, was dually accepted by the meeting xvith much regret. A ire.-h appointment is left over till tne appioaching annual meeting, the \.P. s meanwhue othciating in turn. STRATFORD. Sjiecial meeting Aug. -0. Ihe following resolutions were unanimously curried ; —” Ihe members ot the e*traiiora branch 01 the >/< women s » hr,stian ]em|a*rance l n.on protest strongly against any legislation increas.ng me number 01 total,same |H*rmits, or tne publication oi totaiiS.itor dividends. "in view 01 the tact that the great exil 01 gaimding amongst our men, women, and youths is so fostered by this >1 ate-licensed betting machine, we earnest lx urge the Government to submit the question of its retention or abolition to a reterendum 01 tne |H*ople. ’ •* Ihe members of this i mon express their indignation and sorrow that a majority of mem tiers in the House 01 Representatives refused to grant to a very large majority of the electors 01 this country any reduction in the iniquitous handicap imposed upon them in licensing matters, and we hereby pudge ourselves not to vote for any candidate xvho supports the threefiiths majority, and to induce others to follow our example.’ Copies ot tne resolution xvere forwarded to the Premier and also to the member for the district.

WELLINGTON SOUTH. July IH, “ Home " meeting held in Constable-street Rooms, Mrs. Houlder in the chair. Owing to boisterous weather, there xvas not a large attendance to hear Mrs. Clover, of the Salvation Army, but all were repaid by listening to the account of the work done and the very pathetic stories told.

Aug. 15, “ Home ’’ meeting held in Co ns table-street Rooms, Mrs. Houlder in the chair. Mrs. keeni* gave & recitation entitled “ Woman's Work," and Mrs. K. Isitt gave an address on " Heroines." In Mrs. isitt s opening remarks she asked each member present to define the word " Heroine, ’ ami then proceeded to s|K*ak on the ren arkahle achievements of women and the courage they displayed in their homes, where ©very day they take up new burdens of anxiety and sorrow, ami carry them bravely with a s ule as if they xvere some subtle and undescnbable happiness. Heroines of travel were referred to, ami it xvas shown how difficulties that others had overcome

by courage ami patience, she, too, bv the exercise of the same qualities, xvas able to comber. Mission iry and scientific heroines were also spoken of, and Mrs. isitt closed a very interesting address by an ap|K»al to the mothers to train their girls to Ik* ready for any emergency.

Aug. 39. The lollowing resolutions were passed : "We women members of Wellington S. W.C.T.t . protest strongly against any legislation increasing the numiier ot totalisator permits or the publication oi totalisator dividends. In view oi the fact that the great evil ot gambling amongst our men, women, and youths is so fostered by this State-licensed betting machine, xve earnestly urge the Government to submit the question of its retention or abolition to a reterendum 01 the jieople." " The members of this Union express their indignation and sorrow that the majority ot members in the House of Representatives refused to grant to a verylarge majority of the electors of this country any reduction in the iniquitous handicap imposed upon them 111 licensing matters, and xve hereby pledge ourselves not to vote for any candidate who supports the threefifths majority, ami to induce others to follow our example." WANGANUI. Sept. f», in Sf. Paul’s classroom, Mrs. Smith in the chair. Resolutions xvere passed re totalisator and the three-fifths majority’. Dr. Dunn reported on social work done in h r department at CastledifT. The Secretary was instructed to see that a tent 1k» secured for the use of tired women and children at the coming Agricultural Show*. V vote of sy 111pat h.v was passed to Mrs. Duxtie d. Rawer a President, xvho has suffered bereavement through the loss of her brother, and who has fieen nursing u sick mother for some tune.

PALMERSTON NORTH

Aug. 2. Mrs. Whitehead presided. An interesting letter irom our iormer President, Mrs. Mowlen, was read at the meeting. Arrangements were made in connection with the refreshment booth at the Spring Show, Mrs. Mclkmald Cornell r. Mrs. Whitehead gave a short report of the Home meeting held the week previous, and regretted that so few had responded to the invitations s nt out. Decided the next Home meeting be held in Cuba-street Methodist Church, when the papers that had l»een prepared l>e given. Mrs. Carter, local Secretary for Dr. h&rnardo's Home, rej>orted that she had the town well canvassed by a good band of collectors, and that last month they- had been successful in collecting Til. Will branch I nions please note that xve can supply copies of rules at 5/- per hundred post free. No Pnion should le without a good supply of rules, so that they can be handed to nexv members when they join. Sept. fi. Mrs. Crabb, vice-pres., presided. Further arrangements xvere

made in connection with the tea rooms at the Spring Show. hare majority question was again discussed. Arrangements were made for celebrating White Ribbon Day and Franchise Day on Sept. 19, when White Ribbon Superintendent will give report on her work, and a paper on Franchise movement will also t*» read.

Home meeting, Aug. 16, held in Tuba-street Methodist ('hurch. Mrs. t arter gave a pajier on “ I'he Care of an Infant up to One Year.” A free discussion took place on the subject. Moral instruction was freely discussed, after Mrs. Crabb, our President, had addressed the meeting. The ladies of Cuba-sereet Church provided afternoon tea.

Hr. Ihinn has held a series of lectures here to boys and girls, girls over 15, ami to married women. These meetings were all well attended, especially the last named, when the hall was packed. Literature was sold at the end ol the meeting. We are expecting to have the lk>ctor with us again shortly, as wv feel sure that a great deal of gi>od has lieen done, and is being done in this department of ywr work. PONSONBY. •) ul\. Mrs. Harris, Vice-President, gave a very interesting account of her visit to Wellington, where she hud the very great pleasure of l*eing at the opening of Parliament, taking the seat of honour as the mother of a memtier, Mr. A. Harris, W&itemala electorate. This was a unupie event. Wives are often in evidence, but rarely a mother. .Mrs. Harris is to la* congratulated on having a son so far interested in his adopted countrv and who promises to work for the total abolition of the drink traffic. We are all looking to him to la* a real reformer, ev*?r on the side ot righteousness. Mr. and Mrs. Harris were at the New Zealand Mliance Convention, and the former was one of that large delegation to the Premier, Our minds are exercised as to how to arouse the mothers of our land to realise their respoiisibilit les.

HAMILTON. Sept. 5, in Wesley classroom, the President in the chair. Mrs. Auld introduced Mrs. Col. Fisher, of the Salvation Army, who gave an address on ” Rescue Work. All present were thrilled with the wonderful work don? by that organisation to “ Rescue the |x»rishing. care tor the dving.” Mrs. Fisher said they had 19 Rescue Homes, 11 Maternity Homes (I in hominion), 7 Prison Hate Brigades (.*» for aged men), shelters for relieving distress, and Rescue Homes for girls with criminal tendencies. Some of the saddest cases are admitted, and while their bodies were being cared tor. the main thing was kept well to the front—that of saving the;r souls. The moving spirit was the spirit of love. These institutions remain a living monument to the late (leneraf Booth, who was loved and is mourned by all nations. At the

close a collection was taken up on behalf of ” Rescue Work.” It was decided to hold our annual Convention at Ngaruawahui on Thursday, 26th inst., and we are expecting large numlters to avail themselves of the opportunity to Ik* present, for it is at such gatherings our t mons are strengthened and individual members enthused. NGARUAWAIIIA. Mr. Rligh, of the ” White Cross Ijpague,” visited Nguruwahia anil lectured on ” Lite ” to the men and youth over 14 years. Mr. W. Hutt was good enougn to lend his hall to the lecturer. Mr. Marsland occupied tne chair. At the conclusion of the address Mr. Rligh adjourned to the Wesleyan Church, where he spoke to a mimtier of ladies re the responsibility of training their children to be useful memliers ol society and heirs to the eternal kingdom. The collection taken up amounted to LI 0/3.

lIAWERA. Vug. 29, in the Oddfellows’ Halt. The vice-president (Miss Maunder) occupied the chair. Decided to have a Rest Tent for weary mothers at the forthcoming A. an I*. Show in November. Decided to hold Franchise Day in the form of an evening entertainment. GREY MOUTH. Aug., in St. Paul’s Young Mens Hi Me classroom. The Cradle Roll Sujieriiitendent reported a steady increase of members. A letter of sincere sympathy was directed to Is* sent, through Vdjutant McAulev (the Army Captain) to the relatives of (Jeneral Booth, expressing our appreciation of the great and wonderful work inspired and organised by that great and good men. Our Sailors Rest Sunday evening services are still held. We should like to see them better attended by our seamen. We give our thanks to all those who kindly conduct the services, and especially lately to our friends and member, Mr. and Mrs. hemp. We had the pleasure of receiving one new inemlter. Our thanks aiul sympathy went out to Mr. Malcoln., the member for Clulha (whom many of us know so well), that after working so hard, and speaking so ably,in the cause of right, he should so far not have Ihs'ii successful. INVERCARGILL. Aug. 6. Sister Moody Bell report »*d th»* result of tier country visits, and was authorised to undertake further organising work. Miss • lamies m reported that in conjunction with Mrs. Forde, Secretary of the Invercargill Housewives’ Union, she had interviewed the Insjiector of Fact or‘es regarding the heating of workrooms and factories. It was resolved that a letter Ik? sent to the Minister of Labour pointing out the need for addition to the Factories Vet of a clause providing for proper heating of workrooms. The Ngaire 1 nion wrote notifying the despatch of a parcel of clothing for the V ictorie Home. The meeting recorded

its appreciation of the gift. On the motion of Miss Jamieson, it was resolved that the Union devote 30/in aid of the Band of Hope prize fund for temjierance essays. The meeting recorded its hearty appreciation of the address of Mr. Featherstone, President of the Southland Teachers’ Institute, on " Moral Training in Schools.” The meeting expressed its appreciation ot Mr. Malcolm’s action in bringing forward a Bill for the reduction of the threelift hs majority. Sept. 8. Sister Mood.v Bell reported the successful establishment c a oranch Union at Nightcaps. Decided that we memorialise the Hoveminent against increasing the number of totalisator permits, and against the publication of totalisator dividends ; also that the (lovemment lie petitioned to tuke a referendum on the question of permitting the totalisator. Resolved to provide a Rest lent for mothers and children at the Summer Show, and in addition a tent for the sale of tea and other refreshments. Resolved that Franchise Day lie commemorated in conjunction with a wclcon.e social to Mr. and Mrs. I/oe-Uovvie, on their return from their temperance campaign m Australia. The meeting expressed its regret at the deteat of Mr. Malcolm’s Bill for the reduction of the three-fifths majority, and resolved to demand from candidates tor Parliament a pledge that they will stand for the removal of the handicap. OTAITAU. Band of Hope work is nourishing. Several s|K»cial meetings have been called within the last month to deal with urgent business. Letter forwarded to our member re totalisator legislation, and to members of both Houses concerning the threelifths majority. Our Union is again making a hous>to-house collection in aid of Dr. Barnardo’s Homes. Vug. 21. Six members of W.U.T.U. journeyed to Nightcaps to Ik* present at the first meeting ot the I nion there, organised by Sister Moody Bell.

EDEN DALE (SOUTHLAND). Sept. 3. A meeting was held in Mrs. oberg’s house (the President of a W.C.T.I . which was commenced last October in order to take up the Women’s Crusade). During the had weather in the winter, and because of sickness, no meetings were held. Sister Moody Bell, authorised by the, Invercargill District Union, met the ladies and further explained the work. Additional ollicers were appointed. two new members were received. and a more hopeful outlook for the future was taken up. There is ncojh* for much useful work in this locality, hut workers are few. ngaerk. Aug , held at the residence of Mrs. R. Wickham’s. (Jreat indignation was expressed by all present at the action of Parliament re throwing out Mr. Malcolm’s Bill on licensing matters. lK*cidcd to send a copy* of resolution received from our Legal ami Parliamentary Siqierintondent

to the Premier, members of Cabinet, member for the electorate, and ministers for congregational resolution. (Great disappointment was expressed bv all present at the action ot liawfera Union not holding lhstric Convention, as expected. Resolved to have a s|*»cial meeting on branchiae Da v. Uso at the annual meeting to have the question thoroughlv discussed re continuing holding our meetings at central meeting placeWAIUKU. \ U g 18, in the Temperance Hall. The Vice President (Mrs. Lay bourne) iuesided. A letter was read from the Secretary of the Tuakau Crane i of \\ (’ TU. inviting delegates to attend their Convention on Wednesday, Oct. 23. Decided to send a delegate if possible to report on the work done here during the year. A box of clothing has been collected for the Door of Hope. A new member was enrolled. Aug. 20. The children's meeting was largely attended, und an interesting programme was gone through. \ug 29 The monthly meeting for adults was held. The weather lieing unfavourable, Mr Laybourne took the-chair, in the absence of the chairman. A very interesting ternTK»rancp utldrpss wus (ic iNprpd nj r. Fitchett, who is on a visit from Africa, und has had niaiix opportunities of seeing the evils of the liquor tratlic. NORTH-EAST VALLEY. Aug. 22. quarterly evangelistic meeting held in the Young Men s Institute Mrs. Elliot presided. Hev. .1 Carlisle gave a very instructive address. \ motion was passed expressing our svmpathv with the Salvation Arn.y in the loss of (General Booth. The foliow’ng resolution was nassed “ We. the members ot the North-Fast Valley branch of the N./.. W.C.T.r. protest strongly against anv legislation in'reasinr the number of totalisat r. permits, or the publication of totalisator dividends. In view of the fact that the great evil of gambling amongst our men. women, and youths is so fostered by this State licensed Cett'nir machine, we earnestly urge th:f (Government to submit the Question of its retention or abolition to a referendum of the people. A letter of thanks was read from Mr. A. Mtash for a parcel of literature sent to ('atlins. Mrs. 11. R. (Gray thanked the members of our I’nion who hud assisted in collecting €2l in aid of rhe Rible Society.

TIMARU. An". 27. at the Rest, and presided over b\ Mrs. Hunt. The following resolutions were pass at • “ Thai th ; s meeting desires to exnress *ts verv h *a»‘tv aonreciation of Mr Malcolm’s efforts n connection with the r‘»cent Licencin’* Amendment Rill and of our member’s (Mr. Craigie’s) vote on the occasion of th“ di'is on.” " That the New ''''aland Mliance lie urged to arrance for full publicity at next election of the names of the mem tiers who voted for or against Mr. Map

colm’s Rill, in additioa to taking some decisive and practical steps to secure representatives in the House faxourable to an amendment of the existing iniquitous majority. ” That copies of the foregoing motions be forwarded to Messrs Malcolm and Craigie, and the New Zealand Mliance at Wellington.” GISHCRNE. .July ;jo. (General business and good reports of work done dur.ng the month. The President spoke on \\. t. Stead s life work, his courage, and fearlessness in arousing right public opinion on certain e\*ils. Aug. 27. Short memorial service for (General Rooth. Mesdames (Graham. -East, and others speaking upon his life and work. Mrs. Oakley (Educational Department) read some extrncts from, an article on W. T. Stead, dealing with some important aspects of his work. Alesdames Malcolm. Fox. and Penning also gave short appropriate readings. Mrs. ('hurch reported afternoon tea and entertainment given at Old Men’s Home on \ug. 23, which was much appreciated by the old men. OPOTIKI. Aug. H. A most successful ”At Home ” was held in St. John’s Hall. Our President gave a brief outline of the Cradle Roll. A most interesting addr»-s was gix'en by Air. McKenzie, whrh was very much appreciated. Two new members were enrolled. Special collection oaken up for the Cradle Roll amounted to €1 1/-.

OKAIAWA. July 18, in the Mission Hall. The President presided. Mrs. Wright, one of our members, is leaving the district, and as there is no Cnion where she will reside, she will remain a member of this branch for the nres-mt. Owin«* to the removal of Mrs. Wright. Miss Hicks was asked to take the office of treasurer. The President read a most instructive pa|»er written by Mrs. Spence on “Tenmerance and the Children. Kist»r llama was appointed to write to Sister Julia, one of our* mem tiers in New (Guinea. - AUCKLAND. July 20. Miss I>»war in the chair Mrs. Hughes gave an interesting account of the Dominion No-License c<>nvent ; on held in Wellington Miss Evans gave an inspiring address on No-License work.

Aug. 14. Miss Dewar took the chair. A letter was read from Mr. Rligh asking that our Cnion cooperate with other women's organisations to arrange for women’s meetings while in Auckland. A committee was elected to make arrangements. Resolved to wr : te to the M.’sP for Auckland City and ascertain ih*’ir attitude re the totalisator. v member of the W.C.T.L'. from a T'nion «n th* King Fount rv gooke a few words on the work of th« Cnion. Mr.Rissett then addressed the meet- ; n?. soeik ; ng on the great revival in Motherwell, Scotland, about seven years ago.

CTIRISTCIH RCII “ Y’s.” Aug. held in the W.C.T.11. rooms. Decided to send two delegates to the District Convention to be held at Kaiapoi next month. The meeting expressed its indignation against totalisator dividends being published. Decided thut a resolution lie sent to the Prime Minister as (ollows : “ This meeting protests against any legislation increasing the number of totalisator permits or the publication of totalisator dividends ; and in view of the increasing gambling evil being fostered bv the State licensed lotting machine. it urges the (Government to submit the question of the retention of the totalisator to the people.” CHRISTCHURCH Aug. 8. Birthday Rag social a great success. Over 60 ladies present. Miss Roberts presided, Mrs. Cole not being well. Musical items and decorations were supplied by the “ Y's ” and members. Finanaiai result, €IG4 H/7.

Aug. 11, Mrs. (’ole still too unwed to take up her duties. Miss Roberts presided. Correspondence from the Minister for Labour (Hon. Wm. Massey) received stating that the matter of heating apparatus in offices ami workrooms used by women would l*e seen to by inserting a clause in the Act to deal with the matter. Alatter of racing permits again dealt with. Aug. 28. Mrs. ('ole presided. Decided to hold Cradle Roll meeting Sep. 18. Resolution carried “ That this meeting heartily endorses the act'on of our President (Mrs. (’ole) in regard to the protest sent to Mr. \squith jeotesting against the vindictive punishment meted out to the SufTragett *s at Home.”

WAIPUKURAU. Aug. 8, the President (Mrs. Logan) in the chair, after long absence on a holiday. (Good Rand of Hope meeting held on Aug. 23, at which a resolution was unanimously carried against increasing present numlier of racing dayß in the year. TUAKAU. Aug. 27, Special meeting in Methodist Church. The following resolutions were passed : —” We, the members of the Tuakau branch of the N/. W.C.T.U., protest itrongl) against ian.v legislation increasing the number of totalisator permits or the puff I cat on of totahsitor dividends.” “In view of the fact that (he great evil of gambling amongst our men, women, and youths, is so fostered by this State-licensed ln*ttinr machine, we earnestly the (Government to submit the question of its retention or abolition to a referendum of the people.” “ The members of this Cnion express their indignat on and sotrow that a majority of members in the House of Representatives refused to grant to a very large majority of the electors of this country any reduction in the iniquitous handicap imposed upon them ip licensing matters, and xve

hereby pleaffgJ ourselves not to vote for any candidate who supports the three-lifths majority, and to induce others to follow our example.” Mr. K. H. V\ . Hligh, White Cross L**iigue, was also present, and gave an interesting address on “ The Influence of Sisters. ” OXFORD. Ang. Mrs. Gaisford presided. I*ecided to serai literature obtained to Cass railway works anti Lake Coleridge works, als( to enclose temperance leaflets with the same. Miss Waterman appoint'd Vice-President, to represent the baptist Church. All Churches are represented in our tin on. and it is to be hoped will wor\ together in unity of spirit, with the one object ever before us of try ’ng to li\e up to our motto, “ God, Horne, anil Humanity.'’ Mrs. Uuisford read a letter from the Rev. Coates, of Lyttelton, re the British an I Foreign Sailors’ Home. Resolved to oall a public meeting on Dominion Pay and ask Rev. Coates und others to address the meeting. Mrs. Corny ns read a very interesting paper sent by Miss Powell. The senior Rand of Hope was held a week later than usual. Mr. kippenlarger presided, and a very good programme was presented. The Temperance brass Rand is making good I rogress under the able leadership of Mr. R. .Johnson. The members all belong to th“ Young Men’s Guild. Decided to ask Mrs. Harrison to address otir n *xt meeting on ‘’ Social Pur.ty.” One new member was initiate!. v

.Aug. 27. at the Con.nation Hall. Mrs. Harrison, President of the Kai* apoi W.C.T l'., gave a very interesting address on “ Social Purity.” The address was greatly appreciated. Two new members were enrolled. In the evening Mrs. Harrison addressed the “ Y ” branch, and the girls were greatly impressed and inspired by her s}tt‘(Wb,'W'hich showed the different branches of work Carried on by other “-Y’s.”

At tHe senior Rand of Hope the previous week there was not sufficient room to accommodate all that ca ne, and some had to remain outside. A very good programme was nroviifed. Resolved to have the next Rand of Hope combined with concert hi ttiiL of the Temperance brass Rand, as their instruittents, are not all paid for. The junior Rand of Hope is progressing, but will be discontinued during the summer months. XEL^BN. Vug. 18. Miss Atkinson presided. V letter rend from Dr. Dunn, in which she urged the necessity of pla n speak ng jLo young |>eople in the matter of piiuiy of life. ’.Miss Vtkinson also spoke of the increasing immorality amongst young giris. and the need of earnest and unite! effort to check it ; and it was resolved that Home meetings should be held with this object in view. Decided that prizes should fie offered to the pupils in the public schools for the liext essay upon some temjH-ranee subject t<» In* selected.

One new memtier was initiated, and a collection taken up, amounting to Cl 2 / -. in aid of the Maori work. \lrs. Field then gave some interesting reminiscences of her visits to the various i’nions in the North island during her three months absence. KAI Al’Ol. Special meeting Aug. 14, to make arrangements for the District Convention which was to be held on Srd and -4th Sept. A letter of thunks was received for the gift of books and magazines thal were sent to the Sanatorium at Hanmer, and to the Prison (’amp. A beautiful rug was presented to the l nion by a sympathiser. the proceeds of the sale of the rug to go towards the l nion s funds. The maker of the gift hail worked at it on an average 15 hours a week for weeks. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Dr abl/le for his practical sympathy. Aug. 28. The president spoke about her visit to Oxford auxiliary, when she addressed two splendid meetings. At the afternoon meeting several n<*w members had been mit ated. and in the evening a “ V ” l nion was formed. A vote of sympathy was passed with the Salvation Army on the great loss they had sustained through the death of their leader. At the same time, it was decided to place on record our ap|»reciation and gratitude at the splendid services thut General booth had rendered to the cause of humanity. The follow ng resolution was passed unanimously, copies of which were to f>e forwarded to the Prime Minister and to the Hon. D. Ruddo V\e, the members ol the kaiapoi branch of the W.C.T.U., protest strongly against any legislation increasing the number of totalisator fiermits or the publication of totalisntor dividends. In view of the tact that the great evil of gambling amongst our men. women, am! youths, is so fostered by this Statelicensed betting machine, we earnestly urge the Government to submit the question of its retention or abolition to a referendum ot the peonle.” Two new members were initiated. ASHBURTON. Aug. 18. A very large attendance. Mrs. \\. T. Lill Subiect. M v I- avounte Motto. A number of the members spoke of the pleasure and profit to In* derived from selecting an inspiring motto und endeavouring to live up to it. Decided that letters of condolence fx* forwarded to Mrs. W. T. Corbett and Miss Trevur/.a. also to Mr. (\ Capon, >n their recent tiere&vements. a’so a letter to Mrs. Cole, conveying the lo\e and sympathy of the members ° f the Union with her in her illness. Mrs ,J. Roberts. Secretary of the Mothers’ Union, spoke of the good work done by the Plunket Society, an I asked the Co operation of the ’ -f.es present in forth *r extending tfie w or\ in Ashburton and surroe.Hbn r d : stricts, to which ail remhlv agreed. One new member was initiated. The gathering then took the form of u “ pay up " so-

cial an<l musical afternoon, when a most enjoyable programme was submitted. SOUTH DUNEDIN. Instead of the monthly business meeting, our memlx*rs betook themselves to the Benevolent Institution the evening previous to the usual day of meeting. A large number of olii and infirm folk, besides a few younger men and women, gathered together to listtn to the programme of musical items and recitations arranged by mem tiers and friends. Ihe President (Mrs. South) addressed those present, in a few well-chosen words of sympathy and cheer. It was good to U* present, to note how the members threw their hearts into the task of making their less-ta-voured fellow-beings forget for awhile the monotony und sadness ot their lives—good to watch the laces ot our audience, and note how keenly th*y appreciated the efforts of our members. At the close of the entertainment the manager warmly thanked the Union, and invited us to repeat our visit some time in the near future. lea and cakes were then dispensed, and as our members filed out manv were the expressions of gratitude from the inmates. MAN AT A. Aug. 9. Sisters Nellie and Waitere. from Okaiawa, were present. Vot.s of sympathy’ were passed with Mrs. Duxfield (sickness and berta.emint) and Mis. Allison (our VicePresident) who is seriously ill. A vote of thanks to Mr. Wilson, tor a Temperance Kven ng on the Cineh ' and donation of 25 per cent, of profits. One new memlx»r initiated amt thne hon. members. An interesting address by Sister Nellie on “ Non-Alcoholic Kerned'es ” followed. Tins little “ talk should be given in everv I nion in the Dominion. A letter irom the President vvus read, cordially approving or the scheme tor Ircal organising, but urging th. j I non not to forget the Ikinunioii Fund.

NELSON “ Y’s.”

Several new members have been initiated since our last report. V physical culture class has been formed and is in full swing, with a membership of 15. A syllabus hus l**t*n made up, and includes subjects such as ' Aims and Objects of Union,” “Francis Willard,” “Womans Sphere,’ “ Mental Culture.” Had an address from Rev. Mr Haunt her on “ Duty,” which was much appreciated. KEILDING. Vug. 28, Mothers’ meeting, in St. I’aul s Hall, the President (Mrs. Frost) in the chair. A large numlx*r responds I to the invitations, and much enthusiasm was evoked. V<!dresses were given by Mesdames Whitehead and Crabb, «»f Palmerston. l ml Mrs. Snelgrove, af Feilding. Solos were rendered. S**t>t. the members met at a quarter to thr<x* for prayer. Discussiofi was held (mi Flower Mission

Work, Dorcas meetings, ami Sick \ (siting. Itesoived io celebrate Kranciitsc l»a,\ oy a garden parts .■sept. I*,. An interest, ng ialiv oa The hac.v-oloctvs ” by Miss (iaustao (lescrnjeit the disao * antages ai>d handicaps endured »»y me ja-opie there, i-eciotd to supply them wan suitaole literature. letters were sent to the I'reuner and Mr. (Juitine, m.l\, re ihe gumming e.il. Sincere regret was expressed at the e.uiv departure of mis. iioni our midst ; sne is removing to l am inura.

NIGHTCAPS (SOUTHLAND). l'i»r some lime past trie Otautau W.r.lM . naving considered the <ieSiramiiiy oi a Union be.ng icrmed at iMigntcajs, applied to ihe in*erc»«rgill District Liuon, a favourable repiy was received, and Sister .Moony Heil was desired to proceed with the organisation of Nightcaps, with the assistance of Otautau. On Vug. ‘Jlst, D.M2, a meeting was held in the 1 'resby terian Church, when the President, Secretary, and four other menmers of Otuutaii I'uinc over by train. Alter detailed explanation of the work, 10 memliers were received and duly initiated, signing mem tier ship cards and donning the White lUbiion bow. The results of the elections were President, Mrs. McDouall ; Vice-Presi-dent, Mrs. Sleep; Secretary, Miss L. (Millions; Treasurer. Mrs. Cairns; " White Uiiilxin ” Agent, Mrs. Perry.

It is ho|»ed that a “ Loyal Temperaiice Levi on ” and (’radio Poll may he formed for the children of miners and others.