Thirtieth Annual Convention OF THE New Zealand Women's Christian Temperance Union. HELD IN Provincial Chambers, Christchurch, March 17th to 25th, 1915.

White Ribbon, Volume 20, Issue 238, 19 April 1915, Page 2

Thirtieth Annual Convention OF THE New Zealand Women's Christian Temperance Union. HELD IN Provincial Chambers, Christchurch, March 17th to 25th, 1915.

MINUTES. Convention nn «»-■ called to order by the National President. Ihe Crusade Hymn was sung, followed by the reading ef Crusade Psalm and prayer. The President’s message to Convention was taken from Nehemiah 4th. 6 and 17. At the roll call, 104 responded. New Zealand Officers. Mr> Don, National President; Mi>s Powell, National Vice-President; Miss Henderson. National Corresponding Secretary; Mr> Mitchell, National Recording Secretary ; Mr> Bendcly, National Treasurer; Mrs Peryman, hditor ‘‘White Ribbon”; Mrs Walker, 1 reasurcr Maori Organising Fund; Miss Wood head, Maori Organiser. District Presidents.—Mrs McCombs (Christchurch;, Miss Atkinson (Nelson), Mr> Watson (Ashburton), Mrs Gaskin Greymouth), Mrs Cra be (Palmer-ton North), Mr> lossey (Napier), Mr> Blighting (Kaiapoi), Mrs Blamires (Hawera). District Secretaries. -Mrs Day (Christchurch). Mr- Stewart (Christchurch), Mi- McKenzie (Wanganui), Mrs Knapp (Nelson), Mrs Spearman (Wellington District), Mrs Dent (Ashburton), Mrs Hills (Palmerston North), Mi>> Blackwell (Kaiapoi). District Treasurers. —Mrs Seed (Christchurch), Miss Gordon (C hristchurch). Mrs Houldcr (Wellington), Mr" Hunter (Invercargill), Miss Taunt (New Plymouth), Mrs Dili (Ashburton), Miss Reid (Dunedin), Mrs Dcarlove (Napier). Superintendents of Departments.— Mrs Lee-Cowic* (Invercargill), Sister Moody Bell (Invercargill), Mrs Upton (Wanganui), Mrs Neal (Pahiatua), Miss Roberts (Christchurch), Mrs Taylor (Christchurch), Miss Maunder (Haw era). Delegates.- Mrs Goffe (Gisborne), Mrs Corner (Petone), Mrs Brown (Otautau). Mr*. Sinclair (Blenheim), Mrs Perkins (Woodville), Mrs X. Jones (Ngaeic), Mrs Hansen (Winchmore), Mrs Jarvic* (Dunedin), Mrs 11. I). Bedford (Mosgiel), Miss Dewar (Auckland), Mrs Sc.mien (Auckland), Mr' Allman (Palmerston North), Mrs Young (Palmerston North). Mrs Sweetman ((irevmouth), Mrs Hawke (Oxford), Mrs Dash (VVaimate), Mrs Liddell (Timaru), Mrs Hockey (Nel-

son), Mrs Atkinson (Wellington Central), Mrs Denton (Wellington Central), Mrs Boxall (Wellington District), Mrs Cummins (Wellington District), Mrs Kdmonds (Nelson), Mrs Tottie (Wanganui). Mrs Hogan (Cambridge), .Alls Godfrey (Pahiatua), Mrs Colthart (Sheffield), Mrs Harrison (Tuatapcre), Dr. Florence Keller (Ponsonby), Mrs Paterson (Christchurch), Mrs Williams (Christchurch), Mrs ll.ill (New Brighton), Mrs Sutherland (Masterton), Mrs Wilson (Lyttelton), Mrs Barnard (Kaiapoi), Mrs Thompson (Opotiki), Mrs Blythe (Christchurch), Mrs Bruce (New Plymouth), Mrs Martindale (Hastings), Mrs Hayward (Xormanby), Mrs W. Boag (Rak.iia), Mrs Rodger (Belfast), Miss Peaice (Ngaio), Mis- Weymouth (Wanganui K.), Miss Trevurza (Ashburton), Mrs Peart (X.K. V alley), Mrs Spence (Kaikoura), Mrs Walker (Napier), Mi - Watson Oxford Y*s), Miss Shone (Nelson A s). Proxies. -Mrs Rycle (for Port Chalmers), Miss (iainsford (Bluff), Mrs Bennett Waipawa), Miss VV. LovellSmith (Devonport), Miss Mc Carthy (Whangarei), Mrs Glen (Onehunga), Mis> Butteric k (Stiatford), Mrs Willis (Mataura). Mrs iloddinott (Kdendale), Miss Bisson (Hamilton), Mrs Napier (Nor-ewood), Mrs Love II Smith (Morrinsville), Mrs Sheppard (FeiMing). Miss Bisson, representing British WOmen’s Temperance Association, and Mrs N alder, Superintendent of F.van-goli-tic Department in Nova Scotia, were* welcomed and admitted to Convention a> fraternal delegates. Mrs Stewart and Miss Gordon were a| | ointed .1 Committee of Courtesies, and Miss Powell Convention Letter Writer. Press Reporters. Christchurch Press, Mrs Judson; Christchurch Times, Mrs Dash; Christchurch Sun, Miss W innie Lovell-Smith; Outlook and Hawcra papers. Miss Maunder; Knglish White Ribbon, Methodist Times, and Cnitod Kingdom Alliance, Sister Moodv-Hell; Maoriland Worker, Mi ss McC arthy; Napier, Mrs Tossey; War C ry and Vanguard, Miss Roberts; Otaut 1 , Mrs Brown; Bluff, Mrs Hunter; Dunedin papers, Mrs Jarvic*; Wellington. Mrs Houldcr; Timaru, Mrs Trott; Wanganui Chronicle, Mrs Cpton; New Plymouth. Miss Taunt; (irevmouth, Mrs Gaskin; Auckland, Mrs Seanlan; Palmerston North and Pahiatua, Mrs Crabbe; Nelson, Mrs Knapp; Waikato, Mrs Hogan; Baptist paper, Mrs Hockey. (ireetings were received from: Mrs Kirk, Wellington; Port Chalmers, IVtone, Auckland, and Pahiatua Unions; Mrs Field. Nelson; Australasian W.C.T.U.; Mr MacDermott; the Canterbury Women’s Institute; Mr and Mrs A Vats, Takapuna; and Miss Forsvth. President Sailors’ Rest, Fremantle, W. Australia. Mrs 11i-1 >i> was appointed fraternal delegate to attend the Australasian Convention at Adelaide* in May. Mrs Walker and Miss Woodhead were appointed to write a special report of work done amongst the

Maoris, and send it to the Australasian Convention tor tneir missionary evening. A resolution was passed that a New Zealand flag be procured through the A./.. W.C.i.U. Treasurer, together with photos, and other matters of inti rest, and sent to Hn- W.C.T.U. “May at the Panama exposition. Mrs Don, National President, read the Presidential Address, which was adopted on the- motion of Mrs Atkinson. seconded by Mrs Peryman. Noontide hour was observed. Miss Henderson moved the following re olutions ; “That the* heartfelt congratulations of the X.Z. W.C.T.U. be ottered to the National In ion of the l nited States of America for the great victories won for Prohibition in 1 <) 14. ’Carried. ■ l h.it tin N./. w.C.T.I . Hi Con vention assembled,' offers to Miss Anna Gordon its heaitlelt congratulations on her accession to the Presidency of the- l nited Stairs \>.C.'l'.U*» and prays that the same abundant blessings that c row tit d the work of her distinguished predecessors may re-t upon her labours. ’- Carried. An invitation for ( onvention to visit the Girl-’ Hostel, Opawa, was left with the* Corresponding Secretary to arrange. Miss Dewar’s notice of motion: “That in the- absence or a District President from Convention, the Distric t Treasurer or Sec retary should have a se.it on. the New Zealand executive.”- Cai rieel by two-thirds majority. Mrs S anlan’s notice of motion: “That am Union finding itself unable, for lac k of funds or otherwise, to send a delegate to Convention, shall have the power to choose as their representative any member of the W.C.T.1.; that the word ‘proxy’ bo* obliterated as altogether unnecessary.”—Not carried. Letters of sympathy were directed to be sent to the* l nited States W.C.T.I". on the death of Mrs Lilian Stevens; to Mrs Blackwell and family, Kaiapoi;. to Mrs French and family, Auckland; and to the family of the late* Mrs Hughes, Auckland. The morning session closed with the Benediction. THURSDAY AFTERNOON. Devotions were conducted by Mrs Houldcr. Present, 104. (ireetings were* received from Mrs Taylor (Organising Treasurer), Rev. L Dawson and N.Z. Alliance, Greymouth, Masterton, and North-Fast Valley Unions, and from Mrs Hislop (Dunedin). The* Corresponding Secretary’s report was read and adopted. The New Zealand Treasurer’s report was read and adopted. The Treasurer reported that the Banner Contest this year was won by the Xormanby Union, with an increase of 312 per cent, in membership. Mrs Mowlem, who organised in theNorth Gland for part of the year, submitted her report, which was adopted

Miss Powell, Organiser, read her report, which was adopted. The Organising Treasurer's rcpon was read and adopted. Hearty votes of thanks were accorded Mr Pudney for auditing N-Z. Treasurer’s balance-sheet, and to Mr Browne for audi’ing Organising Tre isurer’s balance-sheet.

Miss Powell’s notice of motion: “That Organisers and Organising Treasurers have a seat in Convention.” —Carried. Miss Henderson’s notice of motion: “That Article IV. of the Constitution be amended by striking out the words after ‘W hite Ribbon, and ad ding the words ‘all above members, who are members, shajl act during the Convention, but in the interim between Conventions, the Iwecutive, for the conduct ol business, shall consist of the President, \i< e-Presi-dent. Corresponding Se« retary, Recording Sec ret ar \, 1 rea-urer, and Editor of the official organ, except when any matter of grave financin' importance i> involved, when the District Presidents ''hall be consulted. Carried. Miss I lender-on*' notice* of motion: “That Article V|. of the Constitution he amended by omitting all the* word' after ‘Special Committees.’ Departmental Reports. Mrs Walker submitted the* report and balance-sheet of tlit* Maori work, which was adopted. Miss Hendcr-on moved a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Morris for auditing Balance-sheet, t arried. Kvangelistic Superintendent: Mrs Upton. Home* Meetings Superintendent: Miss Dewar. Mothers’ Meetings Supe. inteiidcnt: Mrs Jones. These reports were adopted. The President c loscd the session with the Benediction. FRIDAY MORNINC, MARCH 19. Devotions were conducted by Mrs Upton. Pre>cnt, <><). The minutes were* read, and with a few corrections, were confirmed. The Rev. ]. Daw on, Gc-nejal Secretary of the New Xc aland Alliance, was welcomed by Convention, and gave an address on “Lessons Drawn from the Last election,” with suggestions for the future, afterwards answering questions. A letter was received from the President of the Y.W.C.A., inviting Convention to afternoon tea at their new buildings, which was accepted. (Greetings were received from: Mrs Evans (Wellington), Miss Nicoll (Dunedin), Blenheim and Auckland District Unions. Mr Cohen, Editor of “Dunedin Star.” offered to publish daily re port' in “Star” and to pay cost of telegraphing these; also requeued letter of introduction to leaders of W.C.T.U. in Ameiica, which was acceded to. A telegram and lette r of, sympathy was directed to he* -ent to Mr> Moody, Bluff, on the death of her husband.

Reports. Unfermented Wine: Superintendent, Mrs Gaskin. Narcotics: Superintendent, Mrs \\ right. Literature: Superintendent, Mrs Dearlove. Mrs Lill conducted noontide prayer. Literature discussion continued. Miss Powell moved: “That we print our own KK. Pledge, decorating it with the Union Jack and New Zealand flag, in colours.”--Carried. Mi'S Henderson moved: “That a series of leaflets suitable for distribution among soldiers be* published by tlii' Union.” —Carried. Mcsdames Peryman and Dearlove and Misses Roberts and Henderson were appointed a sub committee to prepare* these leaflets. The adoption of above reports wa« confirmed. The President closed the session with the; Benediction. FRIDAY AFTERNOON. Devotions were conducted by Mrs Box.i 11. Present, c>S. Reports. Work Among Seamen: Superintendent. Mrs Whitby.—Carried. L.T.L. and Cradle Roll: Superintendent, Mrs Neal. —Carried. Domestic Science: Superintendent, Mr- T. E. Taylor.—Carried. Pres-: Superintendent, Mr* Duxfield.- Carried. Purity and Moral Education: Superintendent, I)r. Florence Keller. Carried. Dr. Keller addressed Convention on “Suggestions for the Prevention of Spreading Venereal Diseases.” A sub-committee, consisting of Dr. Keller. Mrs Sheppard, Mrs Atkinson, and Miss Roberts, was appointed to draw lip a resolution in connection with this subject. A verv hearty vote of thanks was accorded Dr. Keller for her address. Mrs Tomlinson and Mrs Kar, a deputation from the Christchurch United Women’s Committee, a-ked Convention to co-operate with them in approaching the Government to form a farm colony for moral offend crs. The session closed with the Benediction. SATURDAY, MARCH 20. Devotions were conducted bv Mi>s Powell and Mrs Mitchell. Present, 87. The minutes were read and confirmed. Miss Henderson moved: “That this Convention of the W.C.T.U. of New Zealand heartily thanks the Hon. the Minister of Defence for the assurance that he has given that no wet canteen sh.dl be allowed in the Trentham Camp.” Carried unanimously. Mrs Peryman, Editor and Business Manager of the “White Ribbon,” read her report and balance-sheet, which was adopted.

Miss Roberts spoke in appreciation of Mrs Peryman’s work, and proposed a hearty vote ot thanks to her, which was carried. Mrs Peryman again appointed Editor and Business Manager. Hearty vote*, of thanks were accorded Mr Lynnrburg for auditing “White Ribbon” balance -duet, to Mrs Evans, Associate Editor, and to Mrs Atkinson tor services rendered. Mrs Peryman again nominated Mrs Evans .h A"U< iate Editor. The usual grant of £2 5 was passed to the Bu-iness Manager for the printing 1 of Convention number. the usual honorarium of Z-'o "ns granted to the Editor, and ,£ls from the “White Ribbon” funds to the Business Manage*!. A deputation was received from the Canterbury Women’s Institute, Mesdames Wells (President), Page (Secretaiy), Cunmngton, and Lissamon. Mrs Wells spoke of what women could do to further peace throughout the world. Mrs Lissamon dealt with the cate of State children, urging the better payment of foster mothers, who should he under Government inspection, and also paid by the Government; al'O advocated Cottage Homes. Mrs Cunnington advocated the abolition of capital punishment. A vote of thanks w.is accorded the deputation. Reports. Scientific Temperance Instruction. Superintendent, Mi" Maunder.—Carried. Prison Reform; Superintendent, Sister Moody Bell. Carried. Resolved: “That this Convention send a letter of thanks and appreciation to the Minister of Justice for his recent action in appointing a lady doctor to the l entral Women’s Prison at Addington, Christchurch.” —Carried. Resolved: “That this Convention urge- that further fuc ilities be given for instruction to men and women prisoners in outdoor work, and suitable technical training that ''hall prepare ♦hem, when free, to earn an honest livelihood.” Resolved: “That this Convention urge the Government to provide for a better system of classification, so that it may be impossible for first offenders to make tne acquaintance of hardened criminals, which would be a di-advantage in after life-.” Resolved: “That this Convention respec tfully recommend the delivering of helpful and instructive lectures, which would have a humanising and uplifting influence on the prisoners.” Resolved: “That this Convention urges the W’.C.T U. ?n Christchurch to appoint a Superintendent to cooperate with other prison reform workers in the city.” Resolved: “To a.-k the* Minister for Ju-tice that women official visitors to gaols be given the power* of J.P.’s.” J P.’s.” Mrs Neal's r* por' of Medical Temperance was adopted

Mrs Peryman announced that 804 Convention numbers had been ordered during the morning. The session closed with the benediction. MONDAY, MARCH 22. Devotions were conducted by Mrs Hogan. Present The minutes were read and conrirmed. Reports. Backblocks: Superintendent, Mrs Israel. Thrift: Superintendent, Mrs Flanagan. Hygiene: Superintendent, Mrs McDonald. Sabbath Observance: Superintendent, Mrs Box all. Good Citizenship: Superintendent, Mrs Judson. The above reports were adopted. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the RcV. J. J. North for preaching Convention sermon. 'I he President proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Dr. Keller, Mrs Atkin>on, and Mrs Lee-Cowie for their excellent addresses on Sunday night. Miss Henderson proposed: “That a special committee be appointed to draw up'Some presentment about the war. l'hat the Committee consist of Mesdames |ud>on, I.ee-Cowie, Bendely, and Miss Powell.’' In view of the fact that so many persons of both sexes, who are beyond the age ot reformatories, are convicted of moral offences —Resolved: “To co-operate with other organisations in asking legislation for the purpose of providing institutions of the nature ot a farm colony, where >uch people can be detained for an indeterminate time. These institutions to be under the control of an Klective Board composed of equal ol men and women.” Resolved: “That inquiries be made as to the intention of the Government with regard to ‘letting’ the advertising space at railway stations.” Resolved: “That the time has arriven when women electors of New Zealand should be granted full electoral privileges, and the stigma removed whic h prohibits the nomination of a woman as a Parliamentary candidate.” Resolved: “That in the opinion of thi> Convention the* law relating to prohibition orders should be amended so that, instead of its being necessary, as at present, at the end of the year to have an order extended, the applicant should have to apply to have it revoked.” Resolved: “That this Convention strongly urge- upon the Government the appointment of women polite in New Zealand.” Resolved: “That for the safeguarding of young people, and for the prevention of disorderly conduct, that the Minister of Defence be urged to take immediate ->tcps to appoint women patrols to work in the neighbourhood ot camps for (expeditionary Forces.” This has already been done in England by the National Union of Women

Workers, the patrol work being voluntary and unpaid. Each patrol is given a card signed by the Chief Commissioner of Police or the Chief Constable, authorising them to perform patrol duties. Their co-opera-tion has been welcomed by the police, and the improved behaviour, about the camps is testified to by the commanding officers. Greetings were received from Wellington Central Union. The Doxology being sung, the President pronounced the Benediction. MONDAY AFTERNOON. Devotions were conducted bv Via Harrison. Present, 93. The afternoon was devoted to “Plans of Work for 1915," and discussion of same. The debate was opened bv Miss Powell, who advocated K.K. Pledge, literature, temperance hospital, temperance stories, id and large temperance vall-sheets, cradle roll, home meetings, prize tor new members, correct ro'l, and Bands of Hope. Mrs Atkinson advocated need of campaign from now on, .is tree use as possible of advertising columns, especially on Saturday; posting literature to men in lonely places, in oddition to parcels of book-, and magazines, etc., to camps, sawmills, etc. A discussion ensued, and Miss Roberts proposed: “That Mrs LeeCow ie’s open letter to the Moderate League he signed by our President on behalf of the Convention, every Union communicated w ith and urged to publish it in as many local papers as possible, and that Mrs Cowie be asked to prepare a similar letter to be published quarterly.”—Carried. Miss Henderson proposed that the following resolution he forwaided to all Unions for their adoption, and that delegates to Convention pledge themselves to bring the matter before their Unions: —“That we as individual Unions pledge ourselves, by God’s help, to increase our membership this year by not less than 100 per cent.” — Carried. Mrs Peryman advocated the appointment of agents and reporters lor “W.R.,” and also getting advertisements. Mrs Peryman also suggested that National Superintendentshould condense and tabulate their annual reports. Greetings were received from the Ngaere Union. A letter of sympathy was directed to be sent to Mrs Oldham in her continued illness. An invitation was received from Mrs Kay for a few members of Convention to visit the Te Orangi Home. The session closed with the Benediction. TUESDAY, MARCH 2J. Devotions, hymns, and favourite quotations were conducted by Mrs Atkinson and Mrs Mitchell. Present, 03. The minutes were read and confirm ed.

Greetings were received from Mrs Hislop (Dunedin) and from Mrs Webb (Ormondville). Reports. Rest and Refreshment Booths: Supt., Mrs Howard. Biblc-in-Schools: Supt., Mrs Houlder. The discussion of this report was adjourned. Legal and Parliamentary: Supt., Miss Roberts. The adoption of above reports was continued. Miss Roberts proposed: “That this Convention expresses its gratification at the -signal success ot No-License in Masterton, as proved by the fact that at this session of the Supreme Court the Judge was presented with a pair of white gloves.” -Carried. Miss Henderson moved: “That the W.C.TU. of New Zealand, in Convention as embled, emphatically protests, on behalf ot thousands of mothers, against the decision of the Defence Department not to send chaplains with the next detachments of troops to leave for the front. The formal reading of service on Sunday can by no means take the place of the moral and spiritual work that a chaplain has so many opportunities to do, espci ially at sea. Convention earnestly begs the Defence authorities to reconsider the question.”—Carried. In view of the efforts made by Great Britain and other countries, in this time of war and national strain, to secure the greater efficiency and physical titnc->-> of the troops, and to lessen the evils of drinking, by imposing greater restrictions upon the liquor traffic, thi> Convention urges upon the Government to make it a penal offence to serve intoxicating liquor to, or procure liquor for a soldier in uniform.”- Carried Report of Committee set up to consider the Public Health Amendment Act 1. “That the Convention of the W.C.T U. of New Zealand resolves: ‘That throughout the Public Health Amendment Act the words “venereal disease” shall bo substituted for the word syphilis.’ ’ —Carried. j. “That section 3, sub-section I), shall be amended to read: ‘For the examination by clinical and bacteriological methods, and by specified te->ts of persons voluntarily presenting themselves for treatment, and for the provision of opportunities for such persons as voluntarily submit to such examination at specified times and plat es.’ ’’—Carried. v “With regard to section 4, this Convention strenuously objects to the whole of its provisions, on the grounds that the power of detention is \ menace not only to personal freedom, but to the public health, because, in the opinion of the highest European medi< -il authority, it would immediately have the effect of driving the disease underground by causing sufferers to apply to quacks and unqualified per-on v " -Carried. 4. “That this Convention heartily approves of the suggestions of the Special Committee of the Wellington

Hospital and Charitable Aid Hoard in the matter of lectures, provided the lectures give plain warning as 10 the lasting effects of transgression, and that they inculcate tin* truth, that personal chastity provides the only safeguard against these diseases, and the .serious risk, not only of grave injury to the men and women themselves, almost certainly to their future children; and provided, further, that these lectures explain dearly that the highest European medical authorities agree that no remedial measures 01 palliatives can ever effect a cure, and that while they may relieve the suffer ing of the patient, they can never ensure safety for his wife and future children; and further, point out the harm these remedies do by < rcating a false sense of security.”—Carried. This Convention suggests that recommendation 5 be amended to read: ‘That any girl proved to have been about a military camp after hours without a permit from the O.C. shall be committed to prison on an indeterminate sentence, and that notices to this effect be prominently posted in and about the (.imps.’ Carried. The Doxolcgy being sung, the President pronounced the Benediction. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24. Devotions were conducted by Mia Penman. Present, yo. 1 he minutes weic lead and confirmed. A letter of .sympathy was directed to be sent to Mrs Webb, Ormondville. Mrs Watson’s report of “Notable Days” was discussed, and Mrs Pery man’s amendment, th.it the “T. E. Taylor Day” collection be not ear marked, was carried. Re Bible-in-Schools. Mrs Atkinson proposed the following resolutions: — Whereas the Educ ation A< t ha- h\ ed the number of hours of secular instruction at jo per week, and nearly all schools are open tor more hours, and this extra time is absolutely at the disposal of the School Commit tees; Therefore this I upon all Unions to co-operate with Ministers’ Assoc iations in the formation of Voluntary Bible Teaching Associations, in order that the Bible may be taught in the public schools during the regular school hours; and Whereas sub ion 7 of sect ion 49 of the Education Act, 1914, has removed from the Education Board-, the power to forbid committees to grant leave for Bible instruction by voluntary teachers; Therefore, this C onventioi that all Unions should interest themselves in the return next month of committees favourable to Bible instruction, and thereafter organise the giving of the instruction. Report?. Flower Mission and Relief Work: Supt., Miss E. C. Cole. Educational Bureau: Supt., Mi>s Powell.

Military Camps; Supt., Mrs Mit chell.

Anti-Gambling: Supt., Miss Roberts The adoption of above reports was confirmed. Y’s and Medal Contests: Supt., Mis Moody. l'his report was postponed. Letter received from Minister of Defence in reply to letter sent from Convention. “I am very grateful for your letter of joth inst., and for the resolution which the W.C.T.U. Convention, now sitting in Christchurch, has passed with iegard to wet canteens. Please convey to them my appreciation for their kindness in sending the resolutions. Yours faithfully, J. Al LEN.” A letter of thanks was received front Mis> Wilkinson in response to letter of appreciation for services re no Ted sc iu front Convention. Mi's Gainsford conducted noontide prayer. The Corresponding Secretary proposed the; following resolutions: 1. “That the penalty tor serving, or procuring, or assisting to procure intoxicating liquor for a prohibited per son be imprisonment without tho op lion of a tine.” 2. That in the case of oersons charged with drunkenness for the? third time, tlu; law should be; amended so as to make it obligatory upon the* Magistrate to issue a prohibition order.” 3. “That in all cases where men are proved to be living on a woman’s immoral earnings, Hogging snould comprise part of the punishment.’ Carried, with 12 dissentients. Resolved: “That this Convention resolves to support the; women teach ers of the Dominion in their demand for equitable treatment.” “That this Convention of the* W.C.T.U. strongly supports the* claims of the 1 Women Teachers’ Association in their demands for equal pa for equal work and urge's that p iwnent and promotion shall both de--1 rad solely on efficiency and merit, regardless of sex.” —Carried. The -ession closed with the Benediction. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. Devotions were conducted by Mr? Crabbe. Present, S 5. Special consideration of a “Forward Movement” was d scusscd. Mrs McCombs spoke on the fotward movement for young people. Mrs Cowie being absent hroigh ill health, Miss Henderson read her paper on “ Scientific I emperance Instruction in Schools, and proposed the following resolution:—“As most of the drinking habits of our people are due to ignorance of the evil physiological effects of alcohol, this Convention earnest?* urges upon the attention of the Government the* necessity for making scientific temperance teaching, in connection w ith hygiene and physiology, a compulsory .-.ubject for the teacher’s certificate.” —Carried.

Convention adjourned at 4 p.m. to permit members accepting invitation to visit the V AV.C.A. The* President e losed the session with tho Benediction. THURSDAY, MARCH 25. Devotions were conducted by Mrs Eill. Pre ent, 86. The minute s were read and confirmed. Greetings were received from Okaiaw a Union. The Corresponding Secretary drew the attention of Conve ition to a report given in an American paper of a Convention of College Students and Professor-, at whic h w. a inaugurated a campaign to secure 10,000 college students as pledged abstainers and Prohibition workers. Miss Roberts moved: “That the newspaper extrac t be* published in the* ‘White Ribbon,’ and issued as a leaflet for distribution to c< liege students, teachers, and professors.”—Carried. Eleciicn ct National Officers. Mrs Peryman and Mis Stewart were appointed fellers. National President: Mrs Don. Corresponding Secretary: Miss Henderson. Recording Secretary: Mrs Evans, M.A. National Treasurer: Mrs Bendrly. Mr- Don nominated Miss Atkinson as V ice-President. Mrs Mitchell, retiring Recording Secretary, was heaitily thanked for her services during the* past six years. The greeting from thi- Convention to the Australasian Convention at Adelaide will be found in Ruth 2:12. Miss Powell proposed: “T hat in view of the increasing amount of correspondenc c e onneetod with the ‘White Ribbon’ paper, a type writer be provided for use in his connection, to be the' property of the N.Z. Union. Shoula the finances of the paper not at present warrant this, that it be a charge upon the* N.Z. Treasury.”— Carped. Mi' Mender-on proposed: “That the Christchurch Union be* asked to organise the ‘Win On.;' campaign.”— Carried. Mr.-» or Miss Atkinson was appointed to represent the National President at the N.Z. Alliance Conference at Wellington. .Mrs VYhPbv, late Superintendent of Work Among S ri aen, was accorded t hearty vote of thanks for past services. Resolved; “That p loto. of Convention be kept by Mis Atkinson, Custodian of Records for N.Z. W.C.T.L.” Resolved: “That in view of the increasing work of the' Executive of the \ Z W .C.T.U., and the pressing need of more money, every Union be asked if they would be willing to raise each year a sum of not less than Ud per member for the National Ireasury, >u< h sum to be raised by w hatever means each Union thinks will be most effective.” Miss Henderson moved: “That this Convention rejoices that the Parliamentary election has resulted in a ma*

lority of members pledged at least to «i substantial reduction of the threefifths handicap, and respectfully urges the (Government to introduce early in the session a Hill giving effect to the will of the people.”—Carried Mrs Scanlan gave notice of motion: “That .itr Union finding itself unahlft to send one of its o\\ n members as delegate to Convention, shall have the power to choose as its representative anv member of the W.C.T.U. in its own district. Failing this, it may, by request, have a representative appointed by Convention, all delegates and representatives to have the same rights and privileges .it Convention." Resolved: “In order to the more suitable observance of the Sabbath, this Convention earnestly urges all Christian people throughout the Dominion to discountenance every form of pleasuring which involves the employment of labour, and, by so doing deprives many of their right to. the worship, the rc-t, and the relaxation from business which the day so graciously brings to us." Mrs Young conducted noontide prayer. N.Z. Superintendents of Departments, Kvangclistic, Mrs Upton; Maori, Mr> Walker; Purity and Moral education, l)r. Florence Keller; Literature, Mrs Deal love; Work Among Seamen, Mrs llatchwell; L.T.L. and Cradle Roll and Hand of Mercy, Mrs Neal; Scientific Temperance Instruction, Miss Maunder; Y’s and Medal ('ontest-. Mrs Moody; Prison Work. Sister Moody-Bcll; (Good Citizenship, Mrs Judson; Mothers’ Meetings, Mrs X. |ones; Narcotics, Mrs F. S. Wright; Anti-Gambling, Legal and Parliamentary, Miss Roberts; Unfermented W ne, Mrs (Gaskin; Home Science, Mrs MacDonald; Bible-in-S< bools, Mrs llouldcr; Press, Mrs Duxfield; Backblocks and Work Among - Railwaymen, Mrs Israel; Medical Temperance, Mrs Neal; Sabbath Observance, Mi s Boxall; Flower Missions end Relief Work, Miss F. C. Cole; Rest and Refreshment Booths, Mrs Howard; Home Meetings, Miss Dewar; Kdurational Meetings, Mrs Young; Notable Days, Mrs Harrison; Peace and Arbitration, Mrs LeeCowie; Military Camps, Mrs Mitchell; European Organiser, Miss Powell; Maori Organiser. Miss Woodhead. The President closed the session with the Benediction. THURSDAY AFTERNOON. Devotions were conducted by Mrs Young. Present, 76. The Question Box was productive ot much information, resulting in two resolutions being carried:— r. “That the Government be asked to make it compulsory that the percentage of alcohol in medicated wines and patent medicines should be stated on the label." 2. “That an urgent letter be sent to the Australian W.C.T.U. with a view to informing them of the grave moral danger to the community the totalisa-

tor 1 is proved in New Zealand, and that Miss Roberts correspond as Superintendent of Anti-Gambling Department." Miss Henderson moved: “That wr, the W .C.T.U. of N.Z., in Convention assembled, feel that however remote the prospects of peace may appear at present, we, who aie followers of the Prince ot Peace, and believe in the (Gospel of Love, the Fatherhood of (God, and the brotherhood of man. desire to unite with kindred organisations in every effort put forth to ensure that we may be brought through strife to a lasting peace, and that all the nations of the world may be united in a firmer fellowship for the good of all mankind. Wr women in every part of the world are suffering in heart and home through the sorrows and devastations, and while we cannot now profess to suggest definite plans, we humbly plead that every man and woman should pray and strive fer peace upon earth and goodwill to men."—Carried. Mrs Walker. Trcasuier of Maori Organising Fund, and Miss Woodhead, Maori Organiser, spoke of the work done amongst the Maoris. Miss Woodhead, Mrs A. 1C Atkin son, and Mrs Walker were appointed to interview Dr. Valentine and see if ho could arrange fot a nurse to be stationed among the Maoris in extreme North, who are far from medical aid. Invitations for ic)i6 Convention were received from Wanganui, Auckland, Grcymouth, and Timaru. Wanganui being accepted, with thanks, the other inviting Unions receiving a cordial vote of thanks. Miss Winnie Lovell Smith moved: “That the .:4th of May bo observed by members of the Unions throughout New Zealand as a day on which prayers for peace and guidance in regard to the present war be offered up. Should the Unions be unable to meet on that date, that one day during th.it week be used for that observance, the 24th (Umpire Day) being commemorated by individual members." —Carried. Votes of thanks were accorded— The Committee af ( curtesies, Mrs Stewart and Miss (Gordon. The Hon. 11. D. Bell for granting u-e of Provincial Chambers. Press and Reporters. Convention Letter W riter. Mr Howell for lecture. Mrs (Gardner at (Girls’ Hostel. Mrs Hunter for taking charge of papers, the profits being 15s 4d. The President of Y.W.C.A. Te Orangi Home. To Christchurch Union. To Host- and Hostesses. Mr- Wilder, Superintendent Evangelistic Department, Nova Scotia, addressed Convention on Y work there. Greetings were sent through Mrs Wilder from Convention to Nova Scotia Unions. Votes of thanks were accorded the President, also Mrs Judson for reporting.

The minutes were read and confirmed. “Peace, Perfect Peace, was sung, Mrs Xaldtr offered prayer, and the President clo-cd Convention by pronouncing the Aaronic Blessing and tnc Benediction.