News of the Unions.

White Ribbon, Volume 22, Issue 253, 18 July 1916, Page 11

News of the Unions.

(The Editor cannot promise to insert anythinf in the next issue that does not reach her by the Bth of the month. Correspondents are requested to write their Reports as concisely as possible, on one side of the paper only. Newspaper cuttings are unsuitable.) ASHBURTON. May. Mrs \Y. K. Watson presided over a good attendance. A warm welcome given to Mrs G. Frost. Mrs VV. T. Lill reported on money collected for tlv Rest Tent at the A. and P. Patriotic Show, and that £2 10s was handed over to the Patriotic Committee as a donation from the W.C.T.U. Rev. J. L>. McArthur was present, and by request spoke on the “Social Evil question. Ahe need of education on this subject was forcibly impressed upon all, educating ourselves, our children, and the community. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded the speaker. June. Attendance large. Mrs G. Miller, V.P., occupied the (hair. A motion of sympathy, expressive of the national loss sustained through the untimely death of Earl Kitchener, and appreciation of his noble work, was carried, all members standing. Collecting cards for Patriotic Fund were requested to be returned by June 7th. A warm welcome was extended to Mrs Tregonning, late Oamaru L nion, and two new members initiated. Mrs Lill reported that the “V Branch had made arrangements to conduct a Juvenile Band of Hope, commencing |une 18th. The meeting then took the form of a “pay up” social, and an interesting programme was submitted. A brief address by Mrs G. Frost on “First Impressions in a NoLicense Area” was listened to with great interest. LYTTELTON. ]une. Meeting held in the Presbyterian Schoolroom; Mrs Whilbv (President) in the chair. Seven members being present. Petitions re six o’clock closing have been well filled up, and we all hope and pray that we may get the six o’clock closing very soon July. Meeting held in Presbyterian Schoolroom. Mrs Whitby presiding over ten members. The clause in the War Amendment Bill was discussed; the majority were in favour of sending a protest against it. WANGANUI EAST. President in the chair. Small attendance White Ribbon hymnal used for the first time. Decided in future- to meet in the Anglican Schoolroom. The Superintendent L.T.L. department reported having organised another L.T.L. branch, which is held alternate Mondays in the Church of Christ Chapel.

Twenty-two members joined last meeting, all of whom are very enthusiastic, and it is anticipated a strong auxiliary will soon be worked up. 1 he Okoia L.T.L. continue to have good meet-ngs, once a fortnight, and are about to start a drum and fife band. The Treasurer of the Okoia L.T.L. (Harry Little) proudly handed in £ > is sd which he had collected for the W.C.T.U. patriotic effort. Every Union should have an L.T.L. department. Members and friends will be pleased to hear that our Secretary and Treasurer, Mrs Andrew, is progressing favourably after a serious operation. GREYMOUTH. Meetings presided over by Mrs Mason. All our meetings have been well attended, especially the Prayer Meetings (started by our Union), united Churches, specially for this time of war. An interesting letter was receibed from Mrs Gaskin, re work in various Unions, also a parcel of fan< y articles, for sale 011 behalf of Sailors' Rest. Our Patriotic Card Fund did well, something over £23 being forwarded. Our Greymouth and Cobden Bands of Hope are well attended, well conducted, and full of interest. AUCKLAND. June 14. Special Patriotic Meeting. Surgeon-Major McGuire gave a most interesting address on “A Doctor’s Experiences in Egypt," which was much appreciated by a large audience. A collection was taken for the Patriotic Effort. |un 28th. Mrs Cook presided. Reports were given from delegates to the Auckland Province No License Council, held on June 3rd. The Patriotic Cards were called in. The r<port of petitions showed that 16,140 signatures had been secured by the Auckland Union. Arrangements were made to hold a Pay-up Social at the next meeting. The following resolu tions were passed: “The Auckland W.C.T.U. protests against the inaction of the Government in not including among the proposed amendments to the Licensing Act a clause providing for six o’clock closing of liquor bars. The Auckland W.C.T U. earnestly desires the introduction of the early < los ing reform.” This was forwarded to the Fremier. Private letters have also been sent by individual members, and friends. The following resolution was passed: “That the Auckland W.C.T.U. protests against any attempt to introduce the C.I). Act in any form on the ground that the regulation system is condemned as being wrong in principle and a failure in practice. Regulation increases vice and fails to reduce disease. The Union urges the Government to provide without delay free hospital dispensary treatment for all patients voluntarily presenting themselves for. treatment, this being the course advised bv Sir Jonathan Hutchinson and other eminent authorities. The Union further urges that a vigorous campaign of educational

teaching by suitable lectures be inaugurated by the Government, giving plain warning as to the lasting effects of transgression.” OXFORD. June 6th. Mrs Gainsford in the chair. A vote of sympathy was passed with Mrs Hyde in the serious illness of her daughter. A letter of thanks was received from Mrs Lee-Cowie for a donation of £2 5 from the Union for Patriotic Fund. Decided to hold an Intercessory Service. Miss Gainsford gave an address on the Power of Prayer, based on the text: “Open th mouth wide and 1 will fill it,” and was accorded a vote of thanks. Two new members were enrolled. [une 21st. Decided to celebrate Tavlor Memorial Day by an afternoon meeting on the last Tuesday in July. Mrs Gainsford reported that the box of garments has been despatched to Belgium. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to i'll those who have helped in any way vith the work, and especially to the Red Cross Society for the use of their s» ing machines. At a meeting of the Oxford Junior Band of Hope, Mrs Gainsford presided, and at the Senior Band of Hope the Rev D. Rankin presided. Songs and recitations and dialogue wen contributed by members and others. HAMILTON. Tune 8. Mrs Tones presiding. The President made feeling reference to the loss our Empire had 'sustained by the death of Karl Kitchener. Mrs McKenzie, Secretary-General for New Zealand for the Ramabai Mukti Mission, b ing interested in the \jork of the W.C.T.U. and in its efforts to raise a sum of money for Y.M.C.A. work at the Front, handed over to the local Union £25 for that fund, being part of the proceeds derived from the sale of Indian goods at the recent Show. A motion of appreciation of the Borough Council’s action in providing a much-needed rest room for women, was adopted. Decided to send the following protest to the President of the Winter Show:—“As members of the Hamilton W.C.T.U., we desire to protest against the permuting of a certain i»ame of chance at the last Show, a game in which small rings were Thrown over coins placed on the table.” From personal observation, many members are convinced that -in h a g r ame was in all respedts most detrimental to the best interests of our young people. TOKOMARU BAY. The monthly meeting was held on Friday, June qth. Meetings have been irregularly held on account of severe storms and consequent broken bridges, etc. So far the Branch has collected well over the proposed £\ || the Soldiers’ ('omf<irts Fund, and there is still more to come in. It was arranged that several members take charge of copies of the >ix oYlo< k closing petition.

WELLINGTON DISTRICT. luly 6. Mrs Moulder * presided. Mrs Boxall (Treasurer of Patriotic Fund) reported that she had forwarded /TO7 ios io Mr McKinney, Invercargill, and many cards were not in >t*t. In connection with the 6 o’clock closing, Mr Massey, Prime Minister, had consented to receive a deputation of women on Saturday a» »2 noon. Four speakers would he present, and all members were asked to make an effort to he there. Miss Henderson’s letter to the Prime Minister was read re section 3 of the- War Regulations Bill. Mrs Evans, M.A., moved the following resolution, which was carred:- “This l nion believing that in these strenuous times no measure should be neglected that may tend to the prevention and suppression of crime, and having evidence that in main other places the appointment of women police and women patrols has been highly beneficial, urges the Government to include this among other measures they bring forward for the suppression of vice and disease.” Mrs Moulder explained the aims and objects of the L.T.L., and Mrs Cummins was appointed Superintendent. Mrs Boxall, Superintendent of Sabbath Observance, spoke about the deputation which had lately waited on the City Council re the playing of golf on the municipal golf link" on Sundays, and mentioned that she had written to the Council protesting against them being used, and was glad to say the Council had issued instructions that persons persisting in placing on Sundays will be prosecuted. The selling of cigarettes and chocolates at the Lamhton Railway Station was also commented on, and it was derided to make inquiries. RICHMOND. May. Thr L.T.L. held their ae cond meeting in the Institute. 21 new members were enrolled, making a total of 61. Miss Weymouth acted as Superintendent, giving the President, Mr B. Heath, every assistance. Hilda Kve>, Vi and l 11a Griffith gave .t dialogue, recitations by Ivy and Svdney CTopp, and a solo by Vi Griffith. Mrs Cropp is giving a book to the boy or girl introducing the most new members. MASTFRTOX. lulv. Mrs Devonport presided. Resolved to make and send garments and comforts to the men on “minesweepers.” Treasurer reported that £1 s its fid hid been collected for our Patriotic Fund. Mrs Walker’s resignation accepted with regret. Decided to send a letter of sympathy to Mrs McLean on the death of her husb d. DUNEDIN. May 4. Mrs Perymun presided. Fair attendance. Resolved to send letter of appreciation to Dr. Pettit for his courageous and noble work among men of Dunedin, through his

instructive lectures on venereal diseases. Miss McCarthy, Superintendent Purity and Moral Education, gave an interesting address on “Plants and Animal Life.” Reportid th.it letters had been sent to members of t he House in connection with earl\ closing and new War Regulation Bill.

GREYTOWN. lune j.S. Mrs W hincop (President) was in the chair, a fair attendance being present. Over j£io has been sent for the Patriotic Fund; more will follow at the end of this month. Fhe Hv and mosquito protector was exhibited, and great interest was manifested. Fhe Cradle Roll was mentioned as a very necessan work, but a superintendent was not appointed, it being left for |uly meeting. otaiNtau. Feb. Special meeting. Resolution was passed re the* treating of soldiers. Copies of resolution sent to Ministers of Cabinet. March 11. President in the chair. Attendance good. Members handed in the collecting cards and money for our Patriotic Fund. The President read the leading article in the “White Ribbon.” April 1 p Report read of Band of Hope Union meeting held in Invercargill. Decided that the opening meeting of Band of Hope be held on Mav 1 sth. A charge for admission will be made, the 1 proceeds to help swe ll our Patriotic Fund. April 27. Special meeting held to arrange* for procuring signatures to the petition for closing the hotel bars at h o’clock during the war. May 11. Meeting opened in the* usual way. President in the chair. Arrangements made* for the programme for the Band of Hope meeting - in June. lune. President in the chair. Secretary reported the* petitions for six o’clock c losing of hotel bars wi re* largely signed, and had been sent away. Next Band of Hope meeting I.2th Julv. The June meeting was verv well attended. URi.NUL lune K). Miss M. Powell (Dominion Organiser) gai v a talk to young women. Subject, ‘Girls and Their Lovers.” Owing to bad weather, attendance was small. June 21. Meeting held at Mrs Waite’s house*. Attendance good. Miss M. Powell gave us another of her bright talks, and an outline of our work, “putting us on our legs,” as she* said. Several new members joined. The Vice-Presidents were elected, Mrs Graham and Mrs A. J. Smith. Mrs Wilton was elected to look after the purity literature, and Miss So wry to report to the local papers. Decided to start a L.T.L., a committee being formed: Miss Gausted, Mrs Sowry, Miss Sown. Miss Waite, Mrs Waite. Tea and cakes were* provided by Mrs Waite.

OPOTIKI

June S. 2j ladies present, Mrs J. Thompson presiding. Resolution pass.-d by Union in favour strongly of six o’< loc k closing, on tin* motion of Mrs Wm. Goodall, seconded by Mrs |. R. Sinclair. Mrs Evans gave report of Cradle Roll picnic, which was ver> satisfactory. Stall on the street in aid of the* W .U.T.U. Patriotic Fund do ng splendidly. The* President proposed every member send a postcard to Parliament, also one to the M I*, for our district, urging them to j '«»*>" the* Bill for six o’clock closing as soon as possible. Arranged two members to visit the Public Hospital once a month. STRATFORD. \t our last meeting in May we were' fortunate* in having Miss Powell with us. With her helpful suggestions and the* kindlv aid of a gentleman present, who knew the* district well, the* six o’clock closing petitions were well circulated, close* upon one thousand signatures bring obtained. lune Ist was so stormv and cold that no meeting was he i, the* President only putting in an appearance. CHRISTCHURCH. Miss Roberts presided. Attendance* good. Letters read from Mrs ludson, reminding of Education Board elections; Mrs Hate hwell, asking for comforts for mine-sweepers: Mrs |ones, re mothers’ meetings; and Mrs l pton, on Rest and Refreshment Booths. Discussion on War Regulations Bill. Committee appointed to deal with the matter, and following resolution pissed: “That this Branch of the W.C.T.U. protests against any attempts to introduce the C D. Ac ts in any form, on the ground that they have* been proved to increase rather than to < hec k venereal disease bv creating a f dse sense of security. The l nion urges Government to provide*. without delay, free hospital disP nsarv treatment for all patients voluntarily presenting themselves, thi> hem*' the course advised by Sir Jonathan Hutchison and other eminent authorities. The Union further urges that a vigorous campaign of educational teaching by suitable lectures be inaugurated by the Government, giving plain warning as to the lasting e ffects of transgression and indicating the* truth that personal c hastitv provides the only safeguard against these diseases, and the serious risk, not only of grave injury to the* men and women themselves, but almost certainly to their future children, and providing further that these lecture's shall explain clearly that the highest European medical authorities argue that no remedial measures or palliatives ran ever e ffect a cure, and that while they nlay relieve the suffering of the* patient, they can never ensure safety for the wife and future children; and further point out the harm that these remedies do by creating a false sense of security.” The following resolution was carried: —

“The members of the Christ* hurt h W.C.T.I'. desire to congratulate the people of New South Wales upon the noble and patriotic stand they have taken in the interests of the Umpire bv resolving to (lose all liquor bars throughout the. State at 6 pin. for the duration of the war. We recognise with gratitude that one powerful factor in securing this great reform was the support given by N S W. press. We earnestly hope the Government of this Dominion will afford the people an opportunity of showing their willingness to follow such a tine exa/nple of self-denial in the interests of patriotism. In this hour of supreme crisis of our F.mpire, we believe that every preventable source of economic waste should be stopped, and that every factor that makes for mental and physical inefficiency should be destroyed.” The following resolution was passed on the death of Lord Kitchener The members of the Christchurch W.C.T.I . desire to place on record their deep and grateful recognition of the great services rendered to the Empire by Lord Kitchener, very particularly his inculcation of temperance and morality in the British Army, and the example of abstinence set in hi-' household from the outbreak of the war, and that this I'nion deplores the tragic loss of a leader so powerful, so trusted, and so single-hearted in duty." MOSGIEI.. After a longer recess than usual, on account of patriotic work, the Mo>iriH Women’s Christian Temperance I’nion held their monthly meeting in the Presbyterian Hall on Tuesday afternoon, and took the form of a welcome to Mrs Peryman, Kditor of the “White Ribbon,” also to Mrs Don, our muc h loved and ever welcome Dominion President, who was present. After routine business, which was of a satisfactory duality, had been disnosed of. Mrs Penman gave a stimulating and interesting address. Afternoon tea closed t pleasant meeting. We thank God, and take courage. MAT AURA. May 26. Ten present, Mrs Louden (Vice-President) presided. Two visitors from Invercargill South present. Mrs Parkins spoke on our influence for good, each person working in her own sphere for the good of others. Mrs Paisley, the other visitor, spoke of the liquor traffic, the closing at 6 o’clock being one step in the right direction. Mrs Louden gave a short

address, and the meeting dosed with prayer. Lists were handed round to the members to obtain signatures for six o’clock dosing of the liquor bars. Ihe work was taken up heartily by members, some 25° signatures being obtained in two days. INVKRCARGILL DISTRICT. June. Resolved that a letter of svmpathy be sent to Mr A. Dewe and family on the death of Mrs Dewe, who had been a valued member of the Union. The question of German and Austrian good* being still sold was brought before die meeting, there being a strong suspicion that these have been imported since the war commenced. The members of the l nion were unanimous that the utmost vigilance was necessary in order to combat 1 hisort of thing. Mrs Baird read a copy of the letter she had sent to the British Dominion Women’s Suffrage Conference, to take place in London on July nth and 7th of this year. The Kecutivc of the Conference had asked as to what benefit had been derived by the women of the Dominion of New Zealand from having the franchise. The meeting was of opinion that the reply was an admirable one, and fully covered all the important points. Mrs Brown reminded members that the ringing of St. John's Uhur< h bell at 12 daily was a call to prayer, which should not he forgotten. Mrs Pasley contributed a verv interesting address on “Method*',” and gave many valuable hints. W HANGAR KI. June 6. Meeting at the residence of Mrs James M< Kmuon, to bid farewell to Mrs John McKinnon, who is leaving u- for .1 time. Conclusion of the Convention report was read by Mrs McLeod. Mrs Williams, on account of home ties, is unable to attend regularly, and tendered her resignation as President, which was accepted with regret. Mrs Whalley was elected President. Two members were appointed to wait on Mrs Daniel (wife of Methodist minister) to invite her to join the W.C.T.I’. Afternoon tea was dispensed. Mrs McKinnon, who is leaving for Napier, carries with her the hearty good wishes of all our members. XGAERE. Monthly meeting on the 6th June, at Mrs Whittam’s residence, Finnerty Road. There was a good attendance. Usual business. Report of Provinri tl Convention read by delegate. Reading from “White Ribbon.”

GRFYMOUTH. Mrs Mason presided over a large attendance of members and friends. A most interesting and instructive address was given by Mr W. H. Mit(hendon on bis mission work in the slums of London for a number of years. He told how the poor mothers were helped in many ways, infants’ first garments being sold to them (nicely made), long gowns tid, other articles 2d and 2ld. Afternoon tea was dispensed. PETONF. lunc 6. A fair attendance. Mrs W hincop, of Grevtown, gave a very interesting speech indeed. Mrs Barrow explained the work of the Cradle Roll to interested listeners. After business m.itters being <lis< ussed. the meeting closed with the Benediction. June 21. Home meeting at the rcsidence of Mrs Corner. 20 ladies present. Sister Moody-Bell gave some very interesting outlines of Temperance work. She also exhibited a very useful invention for holding curtains over beds or cots, which had been invented by Mrs Lee-Cow ie and patented by the W.C.T.I’. Mrs Anderson sang a solo, after which afternoon tea was dispensed bv the hostess, who was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. N.F. VALLEY. June 22. The Secretary read a letter from Mr Walker. Ml’., in reply to hers on behalf of the Union, requesthim to do his best to secure six o’clock closing. The President (Mrs ||i>|op) had also written personally ’a> the Prime Minister, Sir Joseph Ward, the Minister of Defence, and Mr Walker, member for the* district, but had not yet received any replies. Captain Hawkes, Salvation Army, Dunedin, gave a very earnest address, basing his remarks on our influence over others, and pointing out that it was our duty, as Christian women opposed to evil of all kinds, to remove as far as possible from the children and young people all things likely to lead them astray. One member was received from Sawyer’s Bay Union. NAPIER. June 6. Mrs Dodds (Y.P.) occupied the chair. Attendance fair. Mrs Neal gave a brief report of the Provincial Convention. Motions of svmpathy were passed in silence to Mrs Ingram and Mrs W interbottom in their bereavements. Decided that White Ribbon Day be celebrated at the next monthly meeting.

June 22. Special business meeting. Mrs \ enables presided. Decided to hold a jumble stall on July 26th, pro reeds to go towards Patriotic Fund. Progress was repotted in connection with the collecting cards. Napier sent in 3020 signatures to 6 o’clock closing petition. Resolutions were passed and forwarded to the Premier, Sir |oseph Ward, and Mr Y. Brown, protesting against any attempt to introduce the C.l). Acts in any form, on the ground that they have been proved to increase rather than check venereal diseases, by creating a false sense of security, and urging the Government to provide, without delay, free* hospital treatment for patients voluntarily presenting themselves for treatment. Also that a campaign of educational teaching, by suitable lectures, be inaugurated by the Government, warning the* people as to the lasting effects of transgression, and indicating that personal chastity provides the onlv safeguard against these diseases; and further, that these lectures shall explain that the highest medical authorities argue that no remedies whatever can ever effect a cure; while thev may relieve the suffering of the patient, they can never ensure safety for the wife and future children, and further point out the harm these remedies do by creating a false sense of security. TIMARU. June. Mrs Rule presided over a fair attendance. Resolution passed, similar to the one passed by the Wellington Central Branch, on Clause 3 in War Regulations Bill. Copies of this resolution have been sent to the Premier, Sir J. Ward, and Mr J. Craigie, member for the district. 2798 signatures have been sent for the petition for six o’c lot k < losing of hotels. One new member \\ w is welcomed. Mrs Brown and Miss Askin were appointed Hospital \ lsitors for the month. Mr Good’s report of work at the Sailors’ Rest showed a cjuiet month, 45 seamen having paid 58 visits. A social was given to the men from the s.s. YVaimate. Mrs Rule read a most interesting and helpful pajier on “Making the* Best of Life.” Mr» Valentine, who is leaving Timaru, sent in her resignation as Cradle Roll Superintendent. Mrs Valentine has been for many years one of our most active and earnest workers, and she will be very much missed. HENDERSON. June. Meeting well attended, Mrs Gilbert! in the chair. One new member initiated. A concert held in aid of our Patriotic Fund. Mrs Platt (Vice-President) suggested making an autograph quilt for the* use of our sick and wounded soldiers in hospital; 40 signatures and shillings were given to help us by travellers on Auckland express. I hope to be able to tell you next month how our W.C.T.U. quilt looked when finished. Several members expressed a sense of obligation to Mrs Little, of Devonport, comment-

ing on the fact that had it not been for her visit and explanation of the patriotic proposal, we would not have had the privilege of assisting in the effort. Disappointment was blended with indignation at the treatment accorded our six o’clock closing petition. NEW PLYMOUTH. June 2. A meeting was held at Kitzroy to discuss the possibilities of forming a branch l nion, as that part of the town has become so thickly populated. No decision was arrived at, but two new members were initiated. lune 28. Our collectors to date have brought in ,£46 ios, and this, with ,£4 realised by the concert, makes a total of x. 50 10s which has been sent to Y.M.C.A. Secretary at Invercargill. Correspondence w.t> read from Superintendents of Show Tents and Rest Rooms, Mothers’ Meetings, Notable Davs, and Parliamentary. A resolution was passed, to be sent to Premier and our member, protesting against anv attempt being made to introduce the C.D. Acts in any form. An invitation was given hv the Fitzroy members to attend a social afternoon which they weie holding in the Fitzroy Hall on lulv sth. when Miss Powell would be present on her final visit. The warmest thanks of the members of New Plymouth are clue to Miss Powell for her help, especially on the day of the Convention. KAIKORAL June 30. The President (Mrs M.irtin) reported replies received from Ministers of Finance and Defence, also Prim** Minister and acting-mem-ber *ar the district in reference to early closing. Mrs Peryman, from Port C halmers, gave a most encouraging address on “Early Closing Petitions," telling us of her experiences in regard to same. The subject of a “white life for two” was also touched on. Afternoon tea was handed round. NELSON. lune 13. Attendance large, Miss \tkinson presiding. Seven new members initiated. Resolved to send a letter of congratulation to Sydney, to Mr Hammond, on the success of the early closing poll. Derided to send a letter of sympathy to Lord Kitchener’s sister. Mrs Hill rcporied over £q collected for the Patriotic Fund during May. Miss Atkinson appealed to the members for help at the “Soldiers’ Rest,” which is open everv day, and refreshments provided. \ monthly meeting was arranged for at Miss Atkinson’s house, to make babv clothes for soldiers’ and sailors’ wives at home. Miss Weymouth has been doing excellent work in Nelson in connection with the Patriotic Fund and the early closing petition, as well as gaining fresh members for the Union; 24 have joined during her stay, and nine in the Y Branch. A meeting was held at Wakefield on lune 21st, when a branch of the

Union was formed there. Miss Atkinson, President of the Nelson Union, was in the* chair, and spoke of the work of the Union generally. She also dwelt on the need of organisation in order to obtain power and inffu ence. Eleven members were initiated. The election of officers was then held, Mrs Telenius being appointed President, and Miss Bonnington Secretary. The monthly meetings will be held on the Ist Wednesday. NELSON. Two Good Citizenship meetings have been held this month. The sub ject of the first was “What is Good Citizenship?” and an interesting discussion took place. It was defined as “All that pertains to and is for the betterment of communal life as distinguished from private, personal life.” It was generally agreed that the* training of the home* should be the beginning of good citizenship, which should gradually widen out to take in the community, the nation, and eventually the whole world; that religion must be the basis of true citizenship, and that the principle underlving it is the subordination of the individual to the universal, whether in communal, national, or international life. The second meeting was devoted to the study of Lowes Dickenson’s “After the War.” NGAERE. Meeting at Mrs Morison’s last Tuesday afternoon. Large parcels of bandages, etc., for Red Cross work, and clothing for the Belgian poor were handed in. It was reported that over 300 signatures in favour of 6 o’clock closing of hotels have* been obtained by members. The resignation of Mrs kennington as President was accepted with deep regret, and she was made a life member of the N'gaere Union. Mrs Tichbon was appointed Superintendent of the Cradle Roll. Decided to hold a Red Cross social at Bird Road. WELLINGTON CENTRAL. June 16. Meeting held in the Y.M.C.A. Rooms, Mrs A. R. Atkinson in the chair. The following resolutions were unanimously passed 1 “That this meeting, in the interests of efficiency and economy, urges Parliament to give effec t to the prayer of between qo,oco and 100,000 electors, that bars should be closed at (> o’clock during the war and for six months after peace is declared.” “That this Union views with apprehension the wide scope of the powers proposed to be given to the Governor-in-Council in the matter of venereal diseases, and trust that no attempts will be made to introduce anv of the obnoxious features of the C.D. Acts.” A committee, consisting of Mrs Nimmo, Mrs Iluffam, and Mrs R. Denton, was set up to collect warm comforts, Balaclavas, socks, and mufflers for the mine-sweepers of the North Sea. Mrs J. Smith appointed Recording Secretary.

GISBORNE. Usual monthly meeting held, with which was incorporated White Ribbon Dav. After the usual business, afternoon tea was handed round, during uh <h Mrs W alker made a few remarks on the Maori work. Mr Chatterton then addressed us on NoLicense and Purity Work. Rev. Wills and An ken were also present, w ith a good attendance of our own members. A collection of /'i 17s was taken up for the Maori work, and a few collet 1ihk cards for the erne distributed. FEILDING. June 6. Mrs P. W. lones presided. Deeded to tall in all collecting cards and cash and send on to Mrs LeeCow ae. Mrs Carr reported the White Ribbon Dorcas was satisfactory, £5 in t ash, and plenty of clothing. Correspondence was read from Mrs Mill drawing attention 10 the resolution in “White Ribbon” on C.D. Acts, and asking us to attend to the same, \vh eh has already been done. There was a discussion on taking up various departments of work, L.T.L. work, Band* of Hope, and looking up absent members. WANGANUI CENTRAL. Social afternoon held. A good attendance of members and friends. Arrangements for Mrs McKenzie’s ((Queenstown) visit were completed. W.C.T.I members are to look after the stalls, the afternoon tea, to run a lollv stall. Suggested that the “V’s” have a violet stall. Mrs (Rev.) McKenzie gave a pianoforte solo, and Mesdaines Strong and Tucker each contributed a vocal item. Miss Cruickshanks (Principal of Girls’ College) gave a very interesting address on ‘Education as a Social Force.” She has kindly promised to allow it to be sent to “W.R.' Tea and cake s were passed round. Two new members joined. POXSONBV. Apr 1 IMrs Fountain (President) presided. Re*port e>f one day’s catering for Soldiers’ Club received. Mr Fountain, husband of our President, rendered valuable service. Delegate to Convention then gave her report. He*r experience of Convention was happy. She gave a warm tribute of praise to the generous hospitality of the* entertaining Cnions of Wanganui. Coming home* by way of steamer up the* famous Wanganui Rive*r, she* had the* unique* experience of camping e>ut all night on the banks of the rive*r. Thanks given to delegate*, who is now better informed in W.C.T.I*. work and to wants of N.Z. Union. Petition received from Miss Henderson re* 6 o’clock closing, and distributed. Cards for the* great Patriotic Fund also given out. May 11. Mrs Vickers and Miss Caley appointed delegates to Alliance C onvention. Thanks reived from Mother Union for help rendered:

June 8. Report of Alliance Convention. Good speeches \\<*r<* made by our delegate. Thanks conveyed to Miss Caley for he*r labour of love in getting so many petition* filled up: nj petitions, 500 signatures. These mean work. Cnion resolved to assess is per member. Treasurer to send it to Superintendent of Organising Fund. Mrs Thorner reported visiting Cambridge l nion and noting work done there*, and telling the*m of our work, so the* visit was mutually helpful. Our Southern friends will be interested to hear that Mr Fosten, who hails from Christchurch, is being engaged to start a Band of Hope* eampiign in the* Auckland district. He spoke in high praise of Mrs Duxfield’s work among L.T.L.’s, and of her help in the past to him. £i( ) sent in to G.P.F.. Maori work collecting cards out. WOODVILLE. May ■; 1. Mrs Perkins (President) in the chair. Attendance very good. Petition form* for the* b o’c lock closing handed in. The result was encouraging. Secretary was asked to write* to Mr Hscott, M.P., asking him to support petitions. Some interesting extracts from the* “White Ribbon” were read by the* President. One new member initiated. June 27. Mrs Perkins (President) presided. Attendance very good. Mrs Crabb (District President) gave a most intere*ting address dealing with the* drink question, (> o’clock closing, and Union work in general; also gave a full account of the recent meeting held in Wellington, and details of the Winter Show in Palmerston. A vote of thanks was passed to Mrs Crabb for her interesting address. Collecting cards for the Patriotic Fund were handed in, the result being £ l3 18s. OTA MATE A. Hum*. I tuano he mitini mate roopu karaitiana wahine Otaniatea, ite 4 onga ra o Hune. Nate perihitini te karakia ka himenetia 78 onga hiniene. Ka inoi ka niutu ka puare te whare monga take (1) Koohi marama moni awhina na k.inamo, Tuaku is, Kotahi Hereni, Kaati ka pahutia e*te perihitini te take mote koohi marama. (2 Katuake te periritini a kutere karena. Ka panga i tana take kinga mema. Kia whiriwhiri te* roopu wahine. Kitetahi tikanga maratou mote whakapai i nga taiaua o te* marae ara kia whaka orangia nga waahi kua mate, kaati, kote whiriwhiri tanga tenei me tono manga tane katoa whai tikangana. Kite marae emahi haunga hoki owaho mate aroha, kaati Pahitiana te take ete perihitini. Kaati tuano he mitini mate nei roopu i te 6 onga ra o aperia kaati nate poto onga ra kihia haere nga repoata. Ite haereke te perihitini i ona raruraru mate na .<*ira katuretii te tu ote mitini,