MINUTES OF Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention OF THF N.Z. W.C.T.U. Held in Wesley Hall, Taranaki St., Wellington, March 10th to 18th, 1920.

White Ribbon, Volume 25, Issue 298, 19 April 1920, Page 1

MINUTES OF Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention OF THF N.Z. W.C.T.U. Held in Wesley Hall, Taranaki St., Wellington, March 10th to 18th, 1920.

(Abridged) Opening devotions conducted by the \cting President, Mis Crabb, assisted l»v Mrs Penman and Mrs J. Wright. Crusade Hymn- -Crusade Psalm read responsively.

Mrs Crabb spoke from Luke x i-ii pointing out that to house canvassing had been instituted by Christ, so n«*ne should deem it irksome. Mis Penman spoke on the Hills of the Bible, and trusted this would be a record Convention for the enthusiasm inspired. MEMBERS OF CONVENTION (97). Dominion Officers Mrs Crabb. \< ting-President: Miss Henderson, Cor. Tec.; Mrs Evans, Rec. Sec; Mrs Pervman. Editor Whit.* Ribbon; Mrs Walker. Maori Organising Treasurer; Miss Eamshaw, Organiser. District Presidents - Mrv (ioffe. (iisborne ; Mrs Venables, Nanier; Mrs Emmett, Wanganui; Mrs Wright. Wei lington ; Mrs Richards, Blenheim ;

Mrs T. E. Taylor, C hristchurch; Mrs Hic f t. Dunedin; Mrs Morton, Hamilton, Miss Atkinson, Nelson, District Secretaries— Mi v Taylor, Auckland; Mrs Eooie, Napier; Mrs W ebb, Wellington; Mrs Moody, W ellington ; Mrs Thompson. Ashburton. District Treasurers rvliss Taunt. New Plymouth; Mrs Brown, Nelson; Mrs Boxall, Wellington. Dominion Superintendents of Departments—Mrs Pirrett, Vs; Mrs X. lones. Notable Days; Mrs I pton. Rest and Refreshment Booths; Mrs Whineop, Military Camps; Mrs Neal, Medical Temperance and Cradle Roll, L.T.L., and Band of Mercy; Mrs McDonald, Home Science and Thrift; Mrs Mowlem, Literature; Miss Helver, Scientific Temperance Instruc-

nun; Mrs Ninuno, Work Among Stamen. Delegates Mrs 11. brown, Auckland; Mrs Eulljames, Devonport; Mrs Albert, Takapuaa; Mrs Whalley, Whangarei; Mrs Walker and Mrs Chellew, Napier; Mrs Nicholson, Dannevirke; Mrs Anderson, Norsewood; Mrs Wilson, Ormondville; Mrs McLean, Waipawa; Mrs Bibby, Waipukurau; Mrs 1 arrant, Ngaere; Mrs Tichbon, Stratford; Mrs Scott, Normanby; Mrs Goodey and Mrs Dunstall, Wanganui; Mrs Gilmer, Aramoho; Mrs Johnston, W anganui Last; Mrs Clausen and Miss Moore, Palmerston North; Miss Powell, lurakina; Mrs Reeve, Feilding; Mrs Chittenden. Marton; Mrs Cubbe, W'oodville; Mrs Spearman and Mrs Beggs, Wellington District; Mrs Atkinson, Wellington Central; Mrs Ouin, Greytown; Mrs Aldersley, Lower lluttj Mrs Devonport, Masterton; Mrs Pnillips, Petone; Mrs Watson. Nelson; Mrs Field, Nelson; Mrs Cropp, Richmond: Mrs Flower, Wakapuaka; Mrs Crichton, Wakefold ; Mis Millen, Picton ; Mrs Napier .ind Mrs Wicks, Christchurch; Mrs Hall. New Brighton; Mrs Ryde, Oxford; Mrs Robinson, W'inchmereGreenstreet; Mrs Trott, Timaru; Mrs Geggie, Balclutha; Miss De'var, Invercargill; Mrs Parkin, Invercargill South; Mrs Spurdle, Hastings; Mrs Auld, New Plymouth. Maori Delegates Mrs Noda, Otamate?; Mrs W’i Clarke, Bartley ; Mrs PaikCa. Port Albert. Y Delegates Miss Garner, Aramoho; Miss Susser, Auckland ; Miss Jenkins, Hastings; Miss Chisholm, Wanganui; Miss Anderson, Wellington ; Miss Phillips, Nelson: Miss Waterman. Oxford; Miss Buxton, Timaru; Mbs Irwin and Miss Stanway, Invercargill; Miss Hoddcr. Palmerston North; Miss Rowlands, Palmerston North. Proxies Mrs McLeod, for Saw\er’s Bav ; Mrs S. Evans, for Greymouth; Mrs Remington, for. Port Chalmers; Miss Knapp, for Kainpoi. Roll call, 87. Report of Executive meeting given bv Recording Secretary. Appointments made: Convention Tetter Writer. Miss Powell: Committee of Resolutions (to be selected during the day) District Piesidc-nts requested to arrange for Tress Reports for country newspapers; W’ellington Press represented by lady reporters, and newspapers in other large centres unable to insert reports besides Press Association telegrams. Letter* of sympathy sent to the fol lowing; Widow of Rev. Mex. White, of Port Chalmers: daughters of late Mrs Hoskin. of Mast^rton; family of late Rev. Paterson of Christchurch: Mrs Sutherland, of Ma«tertor for continued illness. Minutes of last cession of 1010 Convention read and confirmed. Cor. Sec. read her rer-ort, short, concise, full of interesting matter; referred to failure of manv 1 nions to send in returns, hence decrease in

number ol financial members, ana to excellent work ot ceitain L nions, uuiably Auckland District and inveiiargili \s. Report adopted. Correspondence read: 1) From Miss Anna Gordon, referring to the polls. u) From Austialasian W.C.T.U., hoping for World s iriennial Convention to oe held in Australia in 1923. 13) From South African W.C.1.1. (5) From International Woman Suffrage Alliance, re Bth Congress to be held at Madrid this year. ((>) From British Dominions Women Citizens Union re work for Moral and Social Hygiene. (7I Letter re Government of India Bill and enfranchisement of Indian women. (8 From Miss 11. Newcomb re important Congress to be held in 1920. (9) Letters re Indentured Labour in Fiji. Greetings from Mrs Sheppard, South Invercargill Union, Miss Trevurza (Ashburton), Waimate, Sawyers Bay, Waipawa Unions. Orangisers* Reports. Both Miss Weymouth and Miss Farnshaw had worked mainly under the National Prohibition Efficiency Leagues. Miss Earnshaw had been incapacitated from work part of the year owing to her hard work for the April poll. Since January, 1920, *he had been working for the “White Ribbon’’ with wonderful success, gaining in about six weeks over >SO subscribers and collecting over .£SO, and this mainly in tin 1 backblocks. Especial vote of thanks and appreciation passed to both Organisers. Notice of Motion, —Mrs Field brought forward her motion re Superintendents of Departments having seat on Executive during sitting of Convention. After short discussion and explanation, it was carried unanimously. Noontide Devotions conducted by Wi"- Povdl Arrangements made for taking photographs and for Garden Party. Session closed with Benediction. \1 I ERNOON SESSION, MAR. 11th. Devotions (Mrs J. Wright). Roll call, 93. Minutes read and confirmed. Proxies appointed for Greymouth (Mrs S. Evans) and for Port Chalmers (Mrs Remington). Acting-President gave especial welcome to Maori delegates, and to delegate* attending Convention for first time —nearly 40 in number. Committee of Courtesies appointed: Mr* Clarke and Mrs Bates. To attend to mails: Mrs Helyer appointed. To procure local newspapers: Mrs Bates appointed. Greetings received from the Temperance and Public Morals Committee of the Methodist Church of New Zealand (through Dr. Pinfold). Messages left by Mrs Lce-Cowie, and b> Mrs Don read to Convention ; the latter being ‘‘Carry on ! Keep the old flag flying.”

P.esidential Address.— Mrs Crabb delivered her address, referring to dc parrure of our representatives to the World's Convention, to the results of 1919 polls, to progress and position ot prohibition and suffrage movement in other parts of the world. Afternoon tea recess. Rev. J. Dawson welcomed delegate-, in name of the Alliance. He referred to deep impression left on American life and thought by Frances E. Willard, the education system especially show ing evidence of her work. Ob jeclives feu next three* years’ can paign outlined as follows: Making Scientific Temperance Instruction compulsory subject in school curriculum. winning for Prohibition the young women's vote, educating immigrant voters, securing votes of next polls’ fir*t voters. He gave figures *howing that a larger percentage of women on the rolls voted than of men 184 per cent., 78 per c»*nt., and that majority of young women voted against prohibition. He urged immediate preparation of literature to educate immigrants by meetings in large centres at least once every six months, more open-air speaking Victory was certain if only right men >ures were taken and enough hard work put in. Hearty vote of thanks passed to Mr Daw son. Departmental Reports. Maori Work. —Mis Walker presented balance-sheet, showing that la*t year's credit balance of .£93 now increased to over Z.TIS. She urge a Unions to help in Maori work by interesting Maoris who lived near, establishing Cradle Rolls, distributing literature, and endeavouring to find some one suitablt for Maori Organiser. Suggested a letter of appreciation and encouragement be sent to the four Maori Unions that have kept t<> gether in *pite of difficulties. Ke liquor going into King Country, it seemed impossible to -top it owing to failure of Maori Councils. At request of Gisborne No-License League, following resolution passed by League, was moved for endorsement by W .C.T.U.: — 1 “That this League draw the attention "t the N.Z. Alliance to the unsatisfactory nature of the iaw relating to the duties and responsibilities of Maori Councils regarding the introduction of liquor into prohibited areas, as instanced by a recent decision of the S.M. at Wairoa (Hawke’s Bay); and uige upon the Alliance the necessitv of seeking to procure an amendment of the law so that offenders may be punished, notwithstanding the inaction of the Maori Councils in relation to such cases.” Endorsement carried. During the discussion, the Maori members were seated on the platform. Mrs Noda gave some information a* to election of Maori Councils. Her h*uband and her father had held ofh<« in a Maori Council, but had withdrawn owing to inability to do an\ *atisfactory work in it.

Mrs Xoda promised to do what she could help Maori Unions until an Organiser could be found. Suggestions made to get organising done through Church Mission workers, or to train some of the girls who had been at i urakina Maori College, and had returned to their homes. Mrs Paikea, delegate for Port Albert Maori Union, spoke a few words as to her Union, and her pleasure at being a f Convention. Report adopted. Chatauquu greeting giver to Maori members. Session closed with the Benediction. FRIDAY MORNING, MARCH 12th. Devotions (Mrs Atkinson). RoU call. 05. Minutes read coin firmed. On the motion of Mrs Atkinson, seconded by Mrs Watson and Mrs M Leod, a hearty vote of thanks and appreciation was passed to the ActingPresident, Mrs Crabb, for her address of the preceding afternoon. Greetings from Feilding, Pahiatua, Wanganui Fast, Christchurch, Richmond, and Oxford; also letter from Mrs Bendeley. nl the absence of Mrs Bendcly, Mrs Peryman presented the 1 rcasurer's report and balance-sheet, and the Organising Treasurer’s balance-sheet. Owing to last year's late session of Convention, the statements are for barelv 11 months. The N.Z. Fund barely 11 months. The two Funds showed receipts £946 15s od, expenditure, £BOB 10s od. Organising Fund credit balance £605 14s Bd. N.Z. Fund showed credit balance £142 4s sd. Total of financial members 4547, as against 5237 in 1 *)• R- Slight falling off reported in capitation fees and in Y Branches’ returns, due partly to special work with two licensing polls, partly to change of Treasurers. Re port recommended keeping in close touch with country Unions by visiting or other means; for Y Branches more definite plans of work and greater responsibility for some special dep'nment, and greatei interest on part of adult Unions. A large number of Unions sent in no returns. Unions urged to get fees in early in the year by such means as Pay-up Social, Treasurer's Day, Systematic Collect ing. Usual yearly appeal for N.Z. Treasury funds brought in promises amounting to .£SO odd. Report and balance-sheet adopted. Resolved to send letter of greeting a*d sympathy to Mrs Bendely. Noontide Devotions (Mrs Upton). Departmental Reports. L.T L., Cradle Roll, and Band of Mercy—Scientific Temperance instruc tion. —These being both connected with work among the children, brought up together for discussion. Most important to ensure all young people he thoroughly instructed as to evil effects of alcohol. Must he done through Sunday schools or through day schools. Therefore objective is to get Scientific Temperance Instruction a compulsory subject on syllabus. Suggestions made for attaining it: Deputations to F.ducational

Council, to Minister for education, and to all sympathetic members ot Cabinet. Appeal to National Coun cil of Women to support demand re Scientific Temperance Instruction, and similar appeal to all other organisations, so as to make an organised “drive. Letters or telegrams to Minister at same time from every Union and every individual all over the Dominion. Get women on School Committees, and secure sympathetic committees in general. Discussion adjourned, and session closed in usual way. FRIDAY AFTERNOON, MAR. 12th. Devotions (Mrs Whimcop). Roll call, N<j. Minutes read and confirmed. Greetings from Ashburton, Greymouth, and Devonport. Discussion continued on work among the children. 2. Resolved, on motion of Miss Henderson, th.it appeal be made to all organisations, especially all Temperance Societies, to co-operate in whatever definite action might be taken. Mrs Neal, speaking on work of her Department, referred to Cradle Roll cards, difficulty of maintaining interest in L.T.L.’s. and urged formation of Bands of Mercy. Suggestion that Sunday Schools make more use of Quarterly Temperance Lesson adopting L.T.L. methods. Afternoon tea recess. Miss Henderson referred to movement in Christchurch and Dunedin for Bands of Hope in connection with Churches, controlled by united Committees of Churches and W.C.T.U. She moved : 3. That Unions be asked to get into touch with Superintendents of Sunday Schools and ascertain what can be done through such a system of cooperation Mrs Field described wh.it had been done in Nelson the afternoon before the poll in December by means of a Free Picture Show for women and children, and recommended this method of arousing interest among women. Miss Henderson’s motion carried. . Reports adopted. Medical Temperance.—Suggestion madeto send leaflets out with Cradle Roll cards to all mothers the birth of v. hose babies is advertised in the daily press. Report adopted. Educational Bureau—Prison and Reformatory Work.—\d< It< <1 without discussion. Work Among seamen.—Mis Nimnio stated that £3500, in money and goods, had been raised by the W.C. I\U. for war work among sailors. She read inan> interesting letters showing how varied and how farteaching Is thm department; suggest ed that it might afford interesting work for the Y’s, and announced that if appointed again she had a scheme to bring forward for further work. Report adopted. Moral and Social Hygiene,—Con sideration postponed.

Initiation service. Three new members. Literature. Mis Moslem read bal-ance-sheet, showing receipts £l7 4s; expenditure, £ls #s; balance ibs. Distribution of literature y>\ Alliance has caused decrease in work of this department; also stocks were getting low, and renewal difficult owing to high prices and high rate of exchange. Price-list in “White Ribbon" to be revised so as to include postage. Suggested leaflets might be printed 111 New Zealand, but shortage of paper and high cost of labour might pi event. The Superintendents of Literature and Miss Henderson and Mrs Penman to confer in reference to this. Report adopted. 'Session closed with the Benediction. SATURDAY MORNING, MAR. 13th. Devotions (Mrs Walker and the Maori delegates). Roll call, So. Minutes read and confirmed. A letter handed in by one of the Maori delegates was read appealing for help for North ~nd in organising. and also for some children left orphans by the influenza. Resolved Miss Henderson should ring up Health Department to learn whom to apply to for assistance, and whether widows’ pensions could be granted. Also resolved that £5 be granted from Maori Fund for temporary relief, to be supplemented by private donations, which Mrs Walker would receive from any interested. Departmental Reports. Evangelistic. Home and Mothers* Meetings - More cottage meetingdesirable. Certain Unions had been especially successful through holding regular evangelistic meetings, or drawing-room meetings alternately with monthly meetings. Report adopted. Flower Mission and Relief work Adopted. Bible in Schools and Sabbath Observance. —Re “Nelson system of Bible reading in schools, Mrs Pen man explained that regular Bible les sons can be given once a week in school hours, provided: (1) the school is open for more than 24 hours per week; (2) ihe school committee’s consent i> obtained- In nany part of the Dominion, e.g.. Port Chalmers, more interest being taken in school committee elections. Delegates urged to attend to mattei immediately on return to their homes, so as to secure .1 svmpathetic committee. Rest and Refreshment Booths. — Re solved that “Hostels’’ be added to this department. Mrs Crabb referred to effort now being made in Palmerston North to establish a Children’s Home for orphans and for temporary assistance where mothers are ill. She gave evidence of urgent need for such help, and hoped other Unions might help so that it mighi be a Dominion effort Other delegates spoke in sup port and on the motion of Mrs \tkinson following resolution was unan’ mously passed:

4- 1 hat tnis Convention oesires to piate on record its great appreciation of the promised efforts of the Palmerston North District W.CT.c. in establishing a home for young children, ..nil wishes it. every success. Greetings from .Miss Maunder and from Invercargill A s. Resolved letter of symvputhy be sent to Nils- Maunder, unable this year to attend Convention. Session closed in u'-ual wav . MONDAY MORNING, MAR. 15th. Devotions.- Favourite hvmns (Miss Pow ell. ) Roll Call, X 3. Minutes read and confirmed. DEPARTMKNTAL REPORTS. Backblccks and Work Among Railway* men. —Members urged to get into touch with lonely workers in the back ijlocks, through storekeeper-*, or through Railway Department, which takes packages free of charge to railway camps. Report adopted. Notable Days. Adopted with nit dG< iission. Press. Henderson urged delegates to read this report, and get hints for more extensive propaganda work. Superintendent always ready to help I’nions trying to work this department, and keen to write herself •n subjects of especial interest. .Mrs Pirrcti suggested Inion should get a White Riboon block for use in advertisements of meetings in daily ; a per -; cost of block, 0 cost for use being <d a square inch. Other suggestions for working this department; to depute certain members of [ nion to write letters to daily press when opportunity offered on subjects interesting to women; to get reports of W.C.T.C. work in the “Country News' columns of town papers. Report adopted. Military Camos.— IThe Supcrintcn en. stated that work with returned soldiers and their wive* was almost at an end pos-ibl\ there might be scope for work in connection with the I erritorial camps. She' asked for lit - eratuie (magazines, etc.) to be sent her from time to time for use in Featherston ( amp, now confined to inurab! ‘ mfarticus cases. She was the nlv channel through which literature ould reach ibis camp, where it was greatly appreciated. Greetings received from Palmerston North, Oxford, .tnd from Mrs Gainsford. of Oxford. “White Ribbon” Report.— Work had -uffered this year—only 2SN increase in subscribers 4to new subscribers had been sent in, but 151 lost through death and other causes. Twelve b:) I’nions had sent in 10 or more new subscribers, Hastings being first wit^• jo Inveracargill A nxt with 23. 4^ I’nions had f; iled to obtain any new subscribers: 2} others had sent only i. Delegates were requested to draw special attention of I’nions to following points: (1) Appoint jreal liv A agents; '2) every other member r« si<*t K e r • fH when c harge of agent

occurs see that new agent has list handed her; (4) see that typed instructions sent out during past year to each 1 nion ;.re handed over 10 agents; wnte clearly names and addresses of new subscribers. daiame-sheet showed receipts £ > 4 s 4d • expenses, including last year's delicti, .4.4(17 iis 3d, leaving credit balance of ,£8 3* id. About £167 due 111 subscriptions, but very tew long overdue. Hack numbers of W.R., leaflets of “What Women have Gained Since Franc nise Granted," and “Handy Booklet, giving information re de--1 artments of work, could be had for distribution. Htart> vote of appreciation passed to Mrs lVryman for her splendid work a- F.ditor. Mr- Per\man unaimously appointed F.ditor for ensuing year, and also Business Manager, with power to appoint an Assistant Business Manager. Mrs Per) man thanked Convention tor their continued confidence, and nominated Miss Lorna Peryman as Assistant Business Manager. £25 voted tor expense of printing Convention number, £\ 5 to the Business Manager, and honorarium of ,£25 to Editor. Orders taken for Convention number 124 b Noontide Devotions (Mrs Cobb). Report o. Committee on Superannuation for hmployees of i n ion brought up and explained. Report as a whole received, clauses to be discussed seriatim. Clause 1 passed, that National Provident Fund affords the only means of securing superannuation for employees. Discussion adjourned. The Acting President, on behalf of Convention, welcomed Mrs Frank i-itt, who, in thanking her, referred to her late husband’s charge “to keep Prohibition work going tor the sake «>f the' children," ’and his message t< ; e women, “thousands of women workers are wanted for the work.” Sc--i »n closed with the Benediction. MONDAY AFT FR NOON, MAR. , s th Devotions (Mrs Hall). Roll call, S 7. Minutes. Re new banner for the A s, resolved it be given this year for actual incre; -c in membership, and thereafter in alternate vears for percentage of increase and for actual increase. Winners this year Invercargill A s. who also carry off the New Zealand membership banner for actual increase. Membership br.nner for percentage of increase won by Hastings A - \v ; rh percentage. Gr etings m Pakaia M~ torton, Takapuna, Napier. Auckland Pis. trmt. Discussion continued on Report rc Superannuation of Employees. Clause 2a passed. Clause 2b discussed. 'bs Atkinson asked whether the T. and C. Mutual Assurance Association had been under consideration. She be 1 joyed an equally suitable arrangement

might be made with this Association, whereby no loss of interest would be involved in the possible surrender ot .1 policy. Resolved to postpone the discussion that information might be obtained re l. and G. .Mis Mowlem (Literature Superintendent) and Mrs Neal (Cradle Roll and L.l'.L.) spoke briefly as to the literature for sale in their departments. Resolutions. 5. Mrs Walker: 'I hat in the event of Temperance Instruction in Schools being made a compulsory subject, it be also included in the curriculum of Native schools. Carried. Afternoon tea recess. Resolutions. 6. Miss Henderson: That as provided for in the Destitute Persons Act Amendment Act, 1915, special officers of the Court be appointed to receive and collect the maintenance dues. Miss Henderson explained that hitherto this Act had remained a dead letter. Were such officers appointed they would have to take proceedings witnin a fortnight against the fathers of boarded-out children for whom maintenance fees had not been duly paid, and so foster-parents would not suffer injustice, as is too often the case now. Carried. initiation service held. Two new members. It was stated three new members had been initiated uring the dinner hour .it the A.M.C.A. Resolutions. 7. Mrs Field: That Convention is of opinion that the law lelating to :he election of Count) Councils should be amended in the direction of giving residents in counties the suffrage rights as the residents in boroughs now enjoy. According to present law, ratepayers only have a vote, and plural voting still allowed, votes up to three according to .jinount of property held. Carried. 8. Miss Powell; That in the interests of the children who will be travelling in the trains, and in order to avoid unseemly exhibitions of the evil effects of drink, it is desirable that the hotels should he closed on the day of the Prince’s visit to locality. Carried. 9. Mrs Watson: That the Women’s Christian Temperance I’nion heartily supports the Teachers’ Institute in their request that free medical and dental treatment be granted to all school children, and that the present system be extended so as to include i'll uubli r primary schools. A resolution from the Nelson Provincial Convention asking that women might be given a statutory right to • certain proportion of the representation on local bodies, such as Education Boards. Hospital and Charitable v id Boards, was withdrawn, it being 1 »ointed out that such amendment o' the law would interfere with the freedom of choice of the electors, and would he securing privileges to w° men. whereas all that women claim in

the world's great woman movement is fair va/id equal treatment with men. 10. That this Convention reaffirm the conviction expressed in the resolution adopted at the Convention held in KjiQ to the effect that the future wellbeing of the young people of the na tion, and of the nation itself, requires that the (Government should without delay take in hand a comprehensive reform of the Kducation System, with regard to which this Convention lays I articular stress on (a) an extension of the school age, (b) smaller classes, (c) increased attention to the health o srhool children and to th« suitability of their school environment and conditions. Carried. 11. That this Convention represents to the Minister for Justice the urgent need for the establishment of a Home or Institution, other than a prison, for the detention of young women of fenders. In answer to a question, it was stated that the Te Oranga Home, formerly open near Christchurch, had been closed on the ground of (/pKjiso. and the land and buildings tvere iNw King idle. The inmates had been sent out to service, and in many cases were a corrunting influence in the homes where they had been placed. Carried. Departmental Report. Good Citizenship.— Letter read from the Superintendent, prevented by ill ness from attending Convention. She urged I’nio.ns to pay more attention to this Department, which could be made the means of purifying civic life and securing greater efficiency of School Boards and City Councils, etc. Adopted. Session closed in usual way. TUESDAY MORNING, MAR. 16th. Devotions (Mrs Richards). Roll call, 88. Minutes. \cting-President welcomed Miss Ruth Atkinson, recently returned from England, and Convention gavd her a Chatauqua greeting. She briefly responded, expressing her pleasure at being once more among her New Zen land White Ribbon sisters. (Greetings from Timaru Vs, Band of Hope Union of Dunedin, and PastDeputv High Chief Ruler of Independent Order of Rerhabites (Mr W. Pirrett). Departmental Reports Anti-Cambling. Miss Henderson stated she had been unable to do anything in this department for want of time, and moved that it be separated from Legal and Parliamentarc Department. Carried. Legal and Parliamentary.— ln moving the adoption of this report, Miss Henderson dealt exhaustively with certain subjects connected therewith, giving explanations w he-e required. She drew attention to the fart that recently in the Home Perl inn opt ’ strictions on women acting rs iurrr nnd magistrates h.-d been removed r*nd thee we-e now actin'*- ospeci'Mbin the luvenile Courts and r-> Prob”

tion Officers. In view of increase in juvenile crime in New Zealand, e> penally in the holidays, all ought to study the subject and see what «ouid be done in the large centres to 1 he - it. by holiday schools and other means. At this point a representative of the Australasian 1 . and (G. Mutual Life Assurance Society waited on Conven tion. by request, to explain the la< Bities offered by the Society for endowments or superannuation tor benefit of employees. Questions asked and answered. and hearty vote of thanks passed to him for information given. Discussion on Legal and Parliamentary Report continued. Ac ting President suggested that the removal of Parliamentary disabilities of women, so far as Lower House was concerned, should be celebrated in sonic* fitting way, .»» this had been achieved mainly by the efforts of W.C.T.U. either in their own name or as constituting a large proportion of the original National Council of Women. Resolved Mrs Atkinson he* asked t > draw up a suitable resolution. Mi ss Henderson mentioned various points that must be carefully " ntc h< 1 during next session of Parliament, e g., the amending of the Lcgisla ive Council Bill, and the necessity of safeguarding widows’ pensions. Noontide Devotions (Mrs Hiett). Report adopted Moral and Social Hygiene. —ln ah sene'e of Superintendent, Mlsx Webb, adoption of report moved bv Mrs Peryman, who outlined the Bill to come before Parliament. Two chief points it is expected to contain are: (1) Compulsory treatment and notification by numbers. Patients must stay under treatment until cured. If they consider themselves urjustly dealt with, may apply for re-examina-tion by two doctors. (2) Arrest on suspicion, i.e., if several cases of infection can be traced to one woman, such suspected .source of infection will be* requested to go for examination to own doctor, or in case of refusal, can be compelled to go to Government doctor, a woman doctor, if possible, for women. Against these joints Union always will protest, being opposed t<> any form of State regulatic n. Free clinics heartily supjMirted in order to encourage treatment in earlv stages of disease. Mrs Penman urged Unions to study and educate themselves in the* matter, being, as it was, of the greatest importance to the national health and tb** very existence of the nation, alike front the physical and the moral and spiritual aspect. She emphasised de sirability of bovs and girls being taught sex hygiene. r.referable at home by the motner; failing that, in the daily schools b\ specially appointed teachers. Miss Henderson informed dc leg that free clinics were already established in the large centres, with specially imported expert*- in charge. She urged them to watch closely the

proposed legislation, gave facts to 1 1 >vc that in Christchurch the women patrols appointed under the Act ot la>t Parliament were really doing the work of the old C.D. Acts, and referred to the useful work, educative and practical, being done b\ the Social Hygiene Committee in Christ - < hutch. Session closed in usu il way. Tl ESI)AY AFTERNOON. MAR. 16. Devotions (Mrs Upton). Roll call, 91. Minutes. Departmental Reports. Moral and Social Hygiene.—Discussion continued. .Mix-, Henderson urged that (Government ought to do soothing to educate the public by at least stressing the absolute necessity for early treatment. She moved: 12. That Unions pe advised to watch < 1 retull\ any legislation on the Social Hygiene question introduced in the next session of Parliament, and to be prepared to oppose any attempt to introduce anything in the nature or spirit of the old C.D. \<ts. Mis Field dwelt on t o* sei iousness of the* moral aspect. The attitude of the military was determined solely by the medical aspect of the ou< stion, so long a.s the into weie kept 10 health, nothing else mattered. Our young men had many of them returned from the war with lower ideals of marriage, and this was influencing the girls to lose sight of the sacredness of marriage and regard it only from the lowest point of view. She urged Unions to study the question, as only by constant study .md reading could they understand it, and perhaps the best means for this was to subscribe “ Shield Motion carried and report adopted. Y Repcrt. —The Supc.i endent, Mrs Pirrett, explained that in the seven months since taking up this department, work for the poll and subsequent illness had prevented fu r doing as much as she hoped. A long discussion followed. Formation of Young Peoples' F.fficiency Leagues by the Alliance had caused decline of Y. Branches. Their recovers was proving a difficult process. Chief essential was to find work that .would interest the girls and hold them together. In some places it was found best to join young men and voting women in Young People s Branches. fAtcrnoon tea recess. Initiatory service. Two new memhers. Resolved that letter of thanks he xent to the three gentlemen who had ’•''nrb'j-ed valuable assistance at the Garden Party tea. Resolved *o send lott o of thanks Rev. H. W. Burridee for preaching the Convention Sermon. Discussion on A' work resumed. Miss Rowlands (Palmerston X.) r ead a short report of her Union, and stated tbev speciMlv wanted a definite scheme for carrying on monthlv meetings.

Suggestions for Y Work Educative work, as study oi htei«ir\ anil temperance books, mock i'arliainem, newspaper evening (clippings .on some subject previously assigned), home nursing, lirst aid and ambulance, dis cussions on current topics, papers 01 addresses on various subjects; Social and Philanthropic work, as evening programmes ot music or recitation, visits to hospitals, etc., tor entertaining inmates, making garments for philanthropic institutions, helping in Bazaars. Self-development and service formed the keynote. Summing up, the Acting-President declared that the essentials for succcssful N Branches were three: Initiative. Enthusasm, Leisure. Keport adopted. Session closed with the Benediction. WEDNESDAY MORNING. MAR. 17 Devotions, favourite quotations Mrs Cobb and Mrs Wright). Roll tall, Kb. Minutes. Greetings front Waipukurau and Mis Scanlon. Letters read (1) from Miss McLean, Matron in-Chief Public Health Department, giving information re nurses going into country districts to give lectures on nursing. (2) From Mrs Scanlon, re sale of alcohol on coastal steamers and kind red subjects. Departmental Reports. Work Among Soldiers' Hives (Mrs Lee-Cow ie). Grey town Union asked that new Department might be created. Mrs Lee-Cmvie having left New Zealand. Referred 10 Executive. Report adopted. Work m Central Otago 'Mrs Let Cow ie). —Adopted. Mrs Peryman s Notice of Motion re Proxies. Chief argument for abolishing proxies was necessity for arousing Unions to take more interest in l mon work, and this best cone in sending delegate to Convention. Mrs Eield pointed out that the Dis tint or Provincial President could do much in helping l nions to send dele gates, A plea was put in for Unions like Greynrouth, without Branch C nions, but interested enough to ask for a proxy. Members divided in opinion, but all agreed Unions should do then utmost to send a delegate, whether from their own members, or, as now allow ed. from members residing in their I )istri(t. Resolutions. 1 p Mrs Atkinson: Trat this Convention of *he W.C.T.I . thanks the Right Hon. \Y. F. Massey and the Right Hon. Sir J. G. Ward for their work in the passing of the Women in Parliament Bill, and urges the Government to press forward the bringing into effect of the Legislative Council Reform Act, with provision for the entry of women into the Council on exactly the samp terms as men. Carried.

14.1 hat tins Convention rejuues inai ine long struggle ot tnc Women s temperance L nion lor tfte ngats o. women bas ended in tnc passage 01 the women in Parliament Pin, «inu uiges mat women electors should pa) increasing attention to puolic questions, in urder tnat bom electors and candidates may worthily reflect tfte highest interests of the Mate. c 1110ns urged to celebrate the passage of the mil, and delegates directed to arrange on their return for such celeoration, and for this purpose Edi toi of “White Ribbon lequested to insert in an early issue an account of Lady Astor. Carried. 15. Miss Henderson: Ihe Womens Chnstian i emperance Union of New Zealand desires to offer to Lady Astoi its hearty congratulations on her election to the British House of Com mons, and expresses its deep gratih cation that her maiden speech was made against the proposal to remove war-time restrictions 1 n the Liquor Trade. Carried. ib. Miss Henderson: That enquiries be made from the Agricultural Department as to what taiilities are afforded for women to obtain a practical scientific training in out-door .work 0.. the land. Carried. Mrs Atkinson suggested that delegates •'hould all make a point of applying, by letter or telegram, to the Agricultural Department for information and that Unions should continue >imnar work so as to stir the Department to action. Miss Henderson was also empowered to press for further information, as at Ruakura the onl\ facilities were for training- in bee keeping, and so far no arrangements had been made for the residence of women students. Noontide Devotions (Mrs Devonport. Question Box opened, and information given as follows: (1) Lady H. Somerset, whose statements were advertised by “the Trade’ to discredit Prohibition, was certainly supporting State Control, and had appeared on the State Control platform, but was doing so as a means to an end. Difficulties in Britain so ovei whelming that New Zealanders could not appreciate them, and many at Home thought the only possible wav of getting Prohibition was through State Control. (2) Unnecessary for confirmation < * minutes at a meeting to be proposed and seconded. h) Should no special number for a quorum be arranged, business could not be delayed on the plea of “no quorum. M (4) Best wa v of stopping smoking among'women was by educating the n as to its evil effects. Session closed by pronouncing the Benediction. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, MARCH 17th. Devotions (Mrs Trott and Mrs Wright).

ivuli tail, 84. Minnies. A farewell given to Maori delegate.*', wno were leaving next day. Mrs Paikea spoke a few words, tnanking all for the kindness they had received. Iwo verses of “God be with you sung. Question Box continued. Other points brought up: 15) Relation between the Churches ami |lie WU.I .1 . 16) Representation of \ Branches at Convention same as toi adult Unions. (71 Source and nature of wood al cohol. (8) Admission of young widows to \ Branches left to discretion of the Blanches. ij) ke School Committee elections, both husband and wife can vote, and can be members of Committee, and a j erson can exercise a vote in two districts, one as being .1 householder the other as being the parent of a child sent to a school of another district than that in which he resides. The Act badly, needs revising. (10) All funds raised by authority of a Union belong to the Union, and cannot be used except for Union pm poses. Resolutions. 17. Miss Henderson: That the Women’s Christian Temperance Union u ges Parliament to place the ordinary widows’ pension upon the same basis as the pension paid to epidemic \v idows. Canied. 18. Miss Henderson: That seeing the question of the tost of living touches women very closely in theii rapacity as mothers and housekeepers, the Government be urged to appoint women on anti-profiteering boards. Carried Afternoon tea recess. A School of Methods was held in the form of a mock Union meeting, presided over bv Mrs Atkinson. B< sides producing much merriment, it proved of great value in explaining and illustrating various points of procedure in the conduct of meetings. At close members expressed heart' thanks to Mrs Atkinson for the man' hints and valuable instruction she had given. A vote of thanks accordingly pass ed to her. and to Convention for giv ing opportunity for this illustration, and to the Union that assitsed Mrs At kinson by acting as her executive. Session closed in usual way. THURSDAY MORNING. MAR. 18th. Devotions) conducted by the Y’s.) Roll call, 78. Minutes. Report on superannuation of Union employees brought up again. Sec tion 3 parsed without discussion. Sec tion 4 was moved, but as it proved to be such as required debating, leave for its withdrawal was granted. Mrs Evans moved that the remaind er of the report be referred back t r ' the Committee, with instructions to consider other schemes, and tha» th f ' name of Mrs \ R. Atkinson be added r o the Committee. Carried.

Delegates were invited to send up in writing details of any schemes they wished should be considered. Election of Officers—Mrs Pcryman and Mrs T. E. Taylor appointed tellers. Mrs Pcryman informed dele gates that Mrs Don before leaving for England had given her consent to p* nomination as President. All the Dominion Officers were unanimously re-elected. Mrs Pcry man announced that Mrs Don had left word that should she be re elected, she wished to nominate Mrs Crabb as Chief Vice-President. The following recommendations were brought forward from the Exe< utivo: (1) That anti gambling be made a department ia itself separate from Legal and Parliamentary. Carried. (2) That the department, Military (.'amps be dropped. Carried. (3) That the suggestion of making a separate department to deal with soldiers’ wives be not adopted. It was desirable that soldiers’ wives should become citizens’ wives as quickly as posisble, and work in connection with these new comers *an be done under the department of Relief Work and Flower Mission Carried. Miss Henderson moved the appointment of the following Superintendents for the Departments named: Evangelistic, Home and Mothers' Meetings: Mrs J. Wright. Maori: Mrs Walker. Social and Moral Hvgiene; Mrs A. Webb. Literature: Mrs Mowlem. Work Among Seamen: Mrs Ximmo. L.T.L., Cradle Roll, and Hand ot Mercy: Mrs Neal. V’s: Mrs Pirett. Scientific Temperance Instiuction: Miss Helyer. Prison and Reformatory Woik: Sifter Moody Hell. Acting Superintendent Prison and Reformatory Work: Adjutant Cordon. (rood Citizenship: Mrs Phillips. Legal and Parliamentary: * Miss Henderson. Home Science, Thrift, Etc.: Mrs McDonald. Bible in Schools and Sabbath Ob servance: Mrs Western. Relief Work and Flower Mission: Mrs Doreen. Hostels. Rest and Refreshment Booths: Mrs Upton. Educational Bureau: Miss Powell. Narcotics: Mrs Boxall. Ba<k Blocks and Work Among Railway Men: Mrs Moves. Notable Days: Mrs X. Jones. Press: Miss McKay. Medical Temperance: Mis Neal. The Departments of Anti (rambling and Peace and Arbitration were left to be filled up by Executive. Mrs Field was appointed Dominion l.ihiai ian. Invitations for i»>- * Convention re reived from Ashburton and from Dun edin.

Miss Henderson proposed Dunedin's invitation be accepted. 1 here were a great many small t nions in Otago ami Southland that did n>t know much about the general work of the Cnion. and for their help she believed Dunedin had the* stronger claim, and that the Union as a whole would reap more benefit held there than if held in Ashburton. Mis Thompson, delegate from Ash burton, moved as an amendment that Ashburton's invitation be accepted. Fresh help and inspiration were badl\ needed there. Mrs Atkinson considered that while the Union would profit most if Dunedin were selected, the Prohibition Poll would gain most from Ashburton. The amendment was carried, and Ashburton's invitation accepted. Session closed with the* Benediction. THURSDAY \ ITERNOON. MARCH 18th. Devotions lMrs Devonport). Roll call, 74. Minutes. Notice of Motion given by Mis Field: That the Constitution be amended to give officers of Provincial Conventions a seat on the Dominion Convention. Resolutions. up That an appeal be made to the Churches to appoint two accredited women delegates to attend meetings of the local branches of the W.C.T.U. and to report annually to their Churches on the work done. Carried. >O. That with a view to securing greater support for the social and moral reforms advocated by the W.C. T.U., the annual parliaments of the Churches be asked to afford the Union an opportunity of bringing its work before the Church representatives by deputation. Carried. 21. That in view of the fact that ‘.The- Lancet” calling attention to the alarming increase of juvenile crime, strongly advises parents to prevent their children reading exciting books or seeing exciting pictures; also that certain Magistrates in this Dominion, in dealing with young boys convicted of serious offences, prohibit their at tendance at picture shows during the term of their probation. This Con volition urges Unions to use every endeavour to arouse parents to the scri ous danger involved in rhildren at tending promiscuous picture shows, and further, to induce picture proprietors to provide specially selected programmes for children on Saturday afternoons. Carried. 22. That the attention of Parliament be directed to tin* fact that “The Laurel.” calling attention to the alarming increase of juvenile crime, stronglv advises parents to prevent their children reading cuciting books or seeing exciting pictures, and to the fact that certain Magistrates in this Dominion, in dealing with young bov* convicted of serious offences, prohibits ilieir attendance at pictures during the term of their probation; and further, that Parliament be urged to take

steps to regulate the attendance ol childien at picture "hows. Carried. A short discussion as to objectionable posters, which .ire noi under control of Picture Film Censor. Unions urged to watch and try to take some a< tion. 1 he matter was left in Miss Henderson’s hands. Resolutions, 23. That this Convention views with dissatisfaction the delay there has been in getting returned men <>n to suitable land, and urges the (iovern merit at once* to throw open more and better land for these men who have fought for their country. lhe Convention is also of opinion that owing to the delays which it creates the present system of the ballot is unsatisfactory. Carried. Afternoon tea recess. 24. Mrs T. E. Taylor: That Convention desirc*s to draw attention to the fact that .it present district mater nity nursing is almost entirely carried on by nurses in training at St. Helens Hospitals, who are not qualilied for the work. It points out tliai a ver\ great risk is run by patients who have to be nursed by inexperi enced women or girls who are undergoing training, and who at the same time cannot he under the direct super vision of the Matron, while engaged in this important and highly responsible work away from the Hospital itself. Convention accordingly suggests that for important work of this nature the* Health Department should appoint properly trained and certificated wothen as District Maternity Nurses to take charge of all District cases. If necessary, St. Helen’s probationers rould work undei the* direct supervi sion of such qualified women. Carried. 25. Mrs T. E laylor: That this Convention of New Zealand women views w ith con :ern the steady decrease in the birth-rate of this country, and earnestlx desires to draw the attention of the (lovernment to the IHisition as follows:- -It considers that apart from the general modern ten dency towards small families, which nothing can altei very much, there are at least two important tconsideration> which would, if attended to increase the birth rate to a c ertain ex tent, whih* at the same time ensuring that those childien who are born will be better born and better cared for. (1) The limited means of the average mother of more than three children make it imi>ossihlc for hc*r to get suitable home help, so that after the' birth of a third child motherhood becomes a physical burden, and too often results in a permanent breakdown of the mother’s health. (2) lhe gradual increase, for many vears past, in the cost of living, makes the parent of small means look with dread upon the prospect of a large family. We therefore urge upon Parliament and the (»ov eminent the great importance of dealing at once with this matter, and

would suggest, as part of the remedy. that some piaictkal and well-safe guarded scheme for the endowment of motherhood should be undertaken, and the questi« n of the cost <*t living should be fairly and eth< iently dealt with in this connection, and without delay. In discussion, it was stated that the scheme suggested was not a inatcrmt\ bonus, but a regular annual payment up to school age <>r to the age of 14No Mic h scheme* e xisted at present in It iita in. but it was being brought fot ward In one of the public women Most members e.f Parliament were feeling the necessity of dealing with this important matt, t ; and the en clow r,lent of motherliood ippeared to main people'the only solution of the difficulty. Carried. 2(1. That the W omen s ( hristian l'enn|M*rance 1 niem. now sitting in Convention in Wellington, appeals to all organisations that aim at the up lifting of humanity to give an a« five support, for the s ake* of the children, to the cause of Prohibiti n, in order that the work of the next campaign mav hr placed on the broadest P°s siblr basis, and mav include the ac tive sympathy of nil who, however widc-K differing in points of opinion, politv. or belief, are vet united in the desire to sweep the Liquor Traffic from this Dominion. C arried. The V ting-Presidcm paid a very warm tribute to Mrs J. Wright foi the work that, as District President tor Wellington, she had done to make the Convention a success. Hie Banners weie presented to the winning Cnidus. The New Zealand membership banner, foi percentage of increase, to the Hastings V's, percentage 173 per cent. Ihe New Zealand banner t<»« absolute increase* to the* Invercargill Vs, increase being 145. I‘he new Vs banner, presenter! by Mrs Napier, also to the Inver cargili V s for absolute increase. 145 The delegates representing the re 'pectivc Unions, on leceiving tin* banners, responded suitably, and hoped tiiev would be able to keep the* banners next year. (1 reefing received from Henderson Cnion. Votes of thank' weie passed a*** follow :- - The Hosts and I lostesses, with spe c nil mention of Mis Ginn. who had so kindly nursed the delegate from W'aipukurau during her serious illness almost throughout Convention. The Entertaining Unions, including Hutt and Pctone, that had provided so sumptuous an afternoon tea at tin Carden Party. The Trustee'* of the Taranaki Street Church f'" Heir generositx in allowing the use of Wesley Hall, with lighting, gas, and use *>t crockery. The C.iretakci at Wesley Hall for his uniform rourtcM and attention. The Press a vrr\ 'j «*< ial vote feu the excellent and extensive reports they had given

The Mayoress, tor presiding at the Reception in the Concert Chamber, and all her kindnesses in connection with the function. All who had ptovided entertainment at the Reception and other evening meetings, by song or recitation. The Secretary and the Matron at the V.M.C.A. for so kindly arranging to provide dinners for the delegates. I he organisations that had provided afternoon teas. The Rev. II W. Bui ridge for pleaching tlie Convention Sermon. I he Y.W.C.A. for kindlv providing tea for some of the delegates on one evening. The Central Mission Silver Band for leading the precession on Sunday eve ning ; and the Central Mission c 1tuials foi courteously arranging for tin* use* of “EvciybodCs Theatre’’ for the Christian Citizenship meeting. The Room Committee (Mrs Mowhin .uul Mrs Clarke), the Committee of Courtesies (Mrs Clarke and Mrs Bates), and the members who attended to the newspapers (Mrs Bates) and ihe mail (Mrs Helyer), and the Convention Letter Writer (Miss Powell). r<> Miss Powell also for kindh pieparing the report of Convention for typing. Convention then went into Committee to discuss Plans of Work for the coming year. Chief points stressed: Importance of open-air meetings, of good posters to appeal to the eye. of steady and continuous supply of educative litera ture, of well-c r gani«t:J home and drawing-room meetings. After a fairly long and vigorous discussion. Convention M“**»u»ed, and was brought to a close bv singing and nraver by the Dominion Evangelistic Superintendent. PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS Dear Friends,It is with a great sense of loss and strangeness that we meet for our annual Convention without the inspiling present t» of our leader and President, Mis Don. There was a feeling of general lejouing when the word went round that there was a possibility of Mis Don being able to attend the World’s Convention, which meets in London in April, to represent the New Zealand W .C.T.I . Not a word was said in opposition to the scheme, and the Branches right throughout New Zealand gladly made special efforts to help supply the funds for the trip. \moiig our many self-sacrificing leaders and workers who have given .so freely of their time and strength to our great cause, Mrs Don stands out ;is one of the most willing, earnest, end enthusiastic fighters in the cause of righteousness against evil. In looking round Convention, we mis-. other well known faces. Mr' Lee-Cow ic, one of our most faithful workeis, will be much missed during our deliberations. Miss Weymouth, with her untiring energy and enthusi-

asm, has also gone to the Old Country to represent the V Branches. Miss Weymouth’s work among the young women of New Zealand ha> been most highly spoken of, not only by out women leaders, but also by the leaders of the New Zealand Alliance. Miss Moody Bell has also taken the oppoi tunity of going back to the Old Country in cnmpan\ with the* othei travellers. It is the earnest hope and prayer that all these friends may return with inn cased zeal, fresh know ledge, and renewed health and strength to take part 111 the final battle with the Drink Traffic. W hen Convention met last Apiil, in Napier, we had just finished one of the most energetic and strenuous campaigns ever organised in the Do minion against the Drink Traffic, the most evil trade carried on for the accumulation of wealth now ex istent in the world, and with greatei power for evil than human t<*ngue can tell. Barked by its vast wealth and centuries’ old habits and customs of every civilised nation the world over, it defies Kings and Presidents; it controls Governments, and laughs at the sorrows and crimes of the people for which it is rcs|>onsible Ihe Trade, as it is usually termed, was again victorious, and our defeat cast a gloom over the April Convention. For the first time since women had a vote in New Zealand the New Zealand Alliance called upon the W’.C.T.U. to stand the strain of a second campaign in one year. Again we hoped and prayed and worked for victory over the common enemy of mankind, and again we have suffered the intense disappointment of anothe r defeat, although bv onlv 3000 » dd votes. The sale of alcohol will he continued for another three years in New Zealnd. What that will mean to thousands of home*' throughout the Dominion we dare not contemplate. The Prohibition Party was defeated bv a small majority of 3262 votes, c*omposed of 241,251 votes for Continuance and 32,261 votes for State* Control. There is no doubt that tin* new issue on the ballot paper of State Purchase and Control drew some of its support from the ranks of the lukewarm supporters of our cause, but the larger number, wc believe, was drawn from those who were not satisfic'd with the present system of the publie sale of alcohol, with all its abuses, and ho|>ed that the Government control would eliminate at least the worst its drawbacks without adopting the drastic measure of obsolute Prohibition. 1 think the large number of those who supported the' State Purchase and Control issue came as a surprise to everyone. It evidently '-bowed that we have a large number of citizens of the adult age who are still to be educated to the belief that it would be to tin* advantage of the individual, as well as the na tion. to « ut out onc e for all the sale and use of alcohol as a beverage. The large cities of W ellington, Ain k

land, and Christchurch were laigch responsible for the loss of the poll. Many of the smaller towns, such as Invercargill, Palmerston, and Manga nui, carried Prohibition with more 01 less of a majority, and if we had had only 1000 more votes in each of the larger cities we would have been sue cessful, but with a small majority. \\ hat that would have meant foi the future enforcement of sii'li a drastic law that < uts at the very foundation of centuty old habits and customs, it ihard to say. If we had been sin cessful by a inajorit) of io or too votes who would have dared to pro pose that we should refuse to accept such an expression of the wishes ot the people, hut the difficulties of cn forcing such a law would have been multiplied a hundred fold. Some ma> think it waste of time thinking of such a probability when such a conditi >n ha A not to be faced, hut in three years’ time, if not sooner, such a pos sibility may occur, and it is to avoid such a difficult position that we must at this Convention formulate sue h plans of work for the next three years that the prophesy of our optimistic leaders, of a majority of from v»,ooo to 50,000, will be fulfilled, and will so decidedly express the wishes of the' people of our Dominion that the future of such a prohibitory law can never be endangered by a referendum on the question if such a thing should he asked for bv the Trade. I would again remind the Convention delegates that some of the brewers and hotelkeepers, since the official figures were published, have remarked that they quite understand they have only »hree years’ lease' be f ire the\ close down for good and all. and that their only chance of winning the n *xt poll consists in their bring able t 1 prove that Total Prohibition i v not a success in North America, and also explains why they are pressing the Government to extend the interval between the licensing polls to nine years. It is a cheering sight to look at a Prohibition map of North America, snowy white from Alaska and Northern Canada to the border*' of Mexico. What a future before that vast continent, without n legalised saloon within its borders from the North to the South, and from the East to the West Coast. If. as thr Trade themselves think, they have only three years longer to continue their vicious trade, wc must not lose sight of the fart that we have three years in which to educate the vast number of young people who will be voting for the first time at the next noil Think of them in their High Schools and Colleges, boys and giils who are just entering their life work ip the shops' and factories farms and mines, and who undoubtedly will be the deciding fac tor at °ur next poll; . id think further how we have nr elected them in their earlier years, how little knowledge has been given them to prepare them for the serious business of the ballot box. Think

again that it i> we who are to blame the mem be 1 ot tin. M.C.T.I-, it through then lack oi knowledge this great lefornr m. v -'gain be dela}td 01 postponed, ami .hat that would mean to ouj beloved country. Me have been told again and again that the wonderfully successful vote for Piohi bition in the l nited States ol America, the laige majority tlu*> had in all but three of their States fcji the ratification of the Amendment of the Constitution, and the unanimous vote m the Congress, is due to the suenti he teaching of the effects of alcohol on the human b to the c hildren of tin 1 State schools tor the last -’5 >cats. It this is a fart, and it has been corroborated by our American and (an adian friends who helped us with oui two last campaigns, then wh a r are we.* women of the M.C.T.I. doing that we do not insist and demand more ui gently that thi" knowledge should be introduced without any lurther delay into our New Zealand schools, primary and high schools and training colleges, as an examination subject. It is heart-breaking to think that while the American \V.( 1.1 . is celebrating their great victory and planning a further campaign for a drj world in 1930, organising a Jubilee Fund of 100,000 dollais, and a great drive for a million new members for the V\ C.T.U., we, who thought to lead the world in this reform, have to sit down and plan another three years’ campaign for what even our enemies believe to be the filial battle with the' greatest home destroyer of the human race. It will be over the top in 1023, and a death grip with King Alcohol The Prohibition party in the States i*not content with its great victory. It knows that such big financial intei ests will not be content to sit back and take their defeat without an effort to wir. hack their big monopolies, and an immense Association has been form < d and large sums of money collected to watch and fight every attempt of the brewers to bring in <4 n amendment to the Prohibition law. According to the cables, such an attempt has just been defeated in Congress by an overwhelming majority. On every side wc hear how pleased are the people of the States of the effects of the drv law, and how many of the leading men who have always opposed a dry America say they would not go back to the old order. With this object lesson before them, the Mexicans are seriously considering following the example of the States. The trend of public opinion throughout Europe is all against the T.iquor Traffic. Legislation prohibiting certain classes of spirits had been adopted prior to the war, and since the outbreak of hos tilities this has been largely extended, both in belligerent and neutral countries, while beer and wine have been prohibited in some countries, and greatly Vestricted in others. Total Prohibition has been enacted in Rtis sia, Roumania. Finland, Iceland. Greenland, and the Faroe Island, and

among the North Sea fisheries. Abinitii and > 111111• 11 *»pirit*» have been prohibited in France, absinthe in Switzerland, Italy, Holland, and Bel gium; branvin in parts of Norway and throughout the lural parts and in some of the cities of Sweden; the use ot home grown corn and potatoes for riie manufacture ot intoxicating liquor is prohibited in Denmark and otnei countries; the manufacture of spirit* . for beverage purposes has ceased in Great Britain, and its sale in paits of Scotland and on certain ‘lay" throughout the United Kingdom «N also prohibited. The beneficial re suits are so universal that Prohibition is last being recognised as the true remedy for the world’s drink problem. i lie following is the Proclamation of the American W.C.I.U. for world prohibition:— “Representing the National Mo men s Christian Temperance Union 01 Me I nited States, a Republic about to , 1 ,le Prohibition in its constitutional hereby cal] upon the peoples "t all faiths and of all organisations f V riic worlds family ot nations, to (,Hs P hands with the world s W.C. T.C, and to help bring to full fruition its nope and its heroic service of thirty five jears on behalf of a sober world. .Vteme declares against alcohol, icalth conservation and business pros pem> demand total abstinence aaid prohibition. together let us agitate, educate, organise, and legislate, untii Ihe exalted vision of the founder of the World s W.C. 1.U., Frances E. Willard, 1* realised; until the Gospei • d the Golden Rule of Christ is worked out in the customs of society and in the Jaws of every land. At the close «f the devastating world war, in the wmte heat of the limitless, unparal led opportunities of a new interna tionalism, depending upon the help of God and of all who love humanity, we hereby proclaim, by the year 1025 the triumph of World Prohibition. S<»und the Jubilee is the present da\ slogan throughout America in commemoration of their great vie ioi\. The various slogans adopted o\ the M.C.T.I are very descriptive of their outlook foi the future. These are some of them:— Sound the Jubilee. Enforce the Law. I each Total Abstinence. Safeguard the Youmg. Promote Health and Morality. Befriend the Foreigner. Be Just to the Toiler. Become Vital Voters. Establish Social Centres. Donate Drinking Fountains. Mork for M’orld Prohibition. Pray Without Ceasing. Scotland is making another desperate effort to free herself from the grip of the Alcohol curse. England i" now fighting for her life, the life of the British nation, which is l>eset by a* dangerous a foe .is she faced on the Continent during the of the* Great Mar, and a more dangerous one,

for it is a foe well established in hei own household. I his Convention should be a time of heart searching and anal} sis as to why we have failed of our objective in the last two campaigns. Never has there been greater enthusiasm than was shown in the campaign ending in April. Never before has there been unlimited funds at the disposal of the Alliance. For the first time the wealthiest .ind most prominent of the business men of New Zealand came to our aid with advice, giving time and thought, as well as money. The V Branches had been formed, hoping to draw in the young people. T he leaders of the Alliance and the W.C.T.I*. never spared themselves, travelling and speaking night and day. Numbers of the best speakers from Canada, the l nited States, and Australia came to our assistance in organising and platform speaking. The countrx was simply Hooded with literature, and the newspapers were used for our propaganda, without thought of the cost, and yet we failed. Why? Some say we trusted too much to material things, and forgot God and His power. Did.we? Surely the Christian women of New Zealand lifted their hearts to Clod for His blessing on their work and for IL aid. Surely the churches looked i;> their Master for counsel and help. Some blam» the soldiers’ vote. 1 he* soldiers were men who had been through our dav schools, our Sunday schools, our Bible classes, and our churches. Some blame the (lovern nient I he members e»f Parliament and Ministers ‘>f the* Crown were oner boys in our schools and colleges, ll our soldier lads and members of Par ilament had been trained in the homes and schools with the moral and scientific' Jvnowledge the*y should have had. do \ou think they would have voted or legislated as thex elid on this import ant question ? Then who is to blame? Delegate.? and friends, we are to blame. The women of New Zealand, the members of the W.C. T.U., are to blame, that they have not insisted end fought that this se i entific teaching should be* given to the children, and given in an effective manner, so that when the great op portunitv came our legislators, soldiers. and citizens would have stood by us and carried this great reform with an overwhelming majority. I ct us see that no mistake be made. Y or the future we are going to have an examination on this subject in all our schools and colleges and universities, Sunday schools and Bible classes, mot only for the carrying of the poll, but to make certain that once carried there will be no possibility of the law ever being rescinded. To protect our \oung people and secure the stability of the* Prohibition law when it is car ried, it is imperative* that the* evil effects of alcohol upon the* human system be taught in all the* public schools, colleges, and universities throughout New Zealand. This con-

not be emphasised too much, and 'huulel be one of the most important quest tons before the Convention. W e have yet to tind a means of reaching the young man and young woman who has le ft the schools and colleges, and not only to reach them, but to interest and hold them. Good work has been done duung the two campaigns, .ind (iinlds have* been successfully started, but we have a problem to face as to how they are* to be held and used for the next three years. SOCIAL AND MORAL HYGIENE DEALING SPECIALLY WITH \ KNKREAL DISEASE. I his terrible scourge and by-product of the* sale of Alcohol, is still in our midst, and in spite of the efforts of the Government of the British people in the* Old Country and the New, not muh headway is to be reported. It i' something that the attention of those in authority, both in the Parliaments a? well as that of the medical profession, has been seriously drawn towards this gre*at and devastating scourge of the human race, which causes suffering and misery not only to idults. but also to innocent rhildren, who are brought into the world handicapped before they sec the light. We have always contended that every child has a right to be born healthy in mind and body, and has a just cause for complaint against any social system that denies it a healthy body and a sane mind. An association founded by Josephine Butler for moral and social hygiene re|*>rts that the old 1.1) Acts (the fust law of the kind u* the Biitish Empire) is still enforced in Malta, although it has been repealed Crown colonies. In Gibraltar mm in England, India, and several of the pulsory notification and compulsory treatment may be enforced, with the punishment of banishment from the colony for refusing to accept treatment. The*re is no compulsory law for closing brothels unless they are prove 1 to be centres of infection. In India, Burma, the Straits Settlement, Malax States, and Hong Kong the same precautions, with more or less variation, are more or less enforced, always more or less at the discretion of the- Heads of Departments or Police. Segregation is in force in most of the cities in these e/niniiies, and developes the same conditions, namely, all lack of public decency. After strenuous efforts from different associations and leading public wo men, such as Mis K. Dixon, Mrs John Cohen, and others, some of the segregated ejuarters nave been abolished, but as that has simply spread these plague spotv over the whole, of the cities, the < itizenv are* now demanding the* a-distance of the English Houses of Parliament in having the brothels l altogether and the keeping of brothel*? to be considered .is a punishable offenee. At large mass meetings held at Singapore and Burma resolutions have been passed stating that half measures arc of no avail,

and calling foi immediate action to *c cuie that brothel keeping be an of fence punishable under the law. (2) l hc closing of all brothels and the dc portation of all foreign prostitutes. 13) The strengthening of ihe powers ot l üblic officers so as t»> enable them u prevent the landing of prostitutes and procurers. But this law, while pos sibly lessening the vice of prostitutioi i nd procuration to some extent, can not and will never cure this age-old evil. A secret sin tan always defy the law if it is determined so to do. Ihe reform of this evil must come from the hearts of the people them selves. l'he Government must keep (heir skirts clean by refusing to coun lenance it in anx way, and by dealing xxith those wh<> aie spreading the diseases that follow the indulgence ol ibis sin, and healing Hu* sufferers, innocent oi guiltx, but only (iod Himself can clean the nations of the broken moral law, and for this xxe should xxoik and xx.etrh and pray. To come nearer home. Ine present position in New Zealand is that all known cases amongst the* returned men are being treated through the hospitals, the services of a special i>t being engaged for ihat xvork. There is a big effort being made to see that the •hitme* fathers e»f Ne*\x Zealand will noi pass <>n this curse to their wives and innocent children. This compulsory treatment of returned men will also be gradually intro duced among the* male civilians, or such is the present intention of those in authority who have this xxork in hand. As the greatest objection to eompulsoix measuies as attempted in tin* past was that they only dealt with women offender' and let the men go free to continue to spread the infection. We are pleased to note that it »s at last recognised that the sexes must be treated alike, and that the old system. whi<h only resulted in an attempt to make vice safe for the male prostitute i*> being given up, and that a clean life f<»i two will, xxe hope, be the aim of all social xvorkers for the future. The following quotation from Grit is corroborative of what we have always contended, that the moral evil is mostly dependant on the open sale of intoxicating liquors: ‘ The Louisville Times quotes Mayor George W. Smith of that city as ing that he believes with the coming of Prohibition the last prop of the vice triangle- the saloon, the saloon-man-aged dance halls, and the red light district—has collapsed. He declared that the problem in Louisville was reduced where it could be handled without difficulty and without further strengthening the city arm of govern ment. He expressed the opinion that there is no necessity now for appointing a vice commission in Louisville There is no need for special investigation be explained <4 for special legislation. He said, ‘The proh Inn as it stands now ran be solved with application of existing laws. The programme for the elimination of evil

is being carried out by the polite (!*• paitmcnt as quickly and as quietly as possible. . . . During previous administrations with Xoo saloons, and in their connection as many public dance halls opetating, and with the presence of the led light district, th** vice problem was a difficult one. Hut with the abolishing of th r segregated vice district and the eradication of the public dance hall, khc difficulty was minimised considerably, and now with the abolishing of the saloon, which furnished a dangerous element in the vice problem, the situation has practically been brought down where it can easily be handled.’ ’’ SEX EDUCATION. The question of Sex Education in schools is a debatable one, and there are many opinions on this important subject. There is an interesting report of the discussion on this subject, which took place at the British Dominions Women’s Citizens I’nion’s Third Biennial Conference, held in London in 1918, .it which the following resolution was carried: “That this Conference welcomes the advance which has been made of late in approaching the Question of Sex in the education of the young, and calls upon all women’s organisations to aid in promoting confidence between parents and children, and between teachers and children ak re gards this highest and most sacred function of the human being.” The British Women’s Temperance Societies have been very chary of taking up this branch of work, but are becoming more actively interested in it now. The New Zealand W.C.T.U. have for some years now urged our Minister of Education to move in this matter, pressing the necessity of a very careful choice of teachers or lecturers. Foi the prevention of the first steps in wrong-doing by young people, and the safe guarding of public morals, our repeated requests for the institu tion of a Women Police Force in New Zealand as a preventative measure is still refused. What will be the result of a further appeal now that there will be a change of Portfolios remains to be seen, but if the New Zealand Government still efuscs these neces sary refoims to n-oet the nevy conili lions of our social h'*, with its ever increasing freeaoir. of young people and steadily increasing numbers of voung girls going straight from the schoolrooms to the business offices, shops and factories, where they can earn salaries sufficient to keep them independently of their fathers’ and mothers’ home and protection, and when these changed conditions are do veloping an intense hatred for every kind of restraint, then the social conditions of our country will be a menace to the morals of the future. If the voung people cannot be controlled by their rightful guardians then the Government must step in and provide protection for them until thev are of age to control themselves.

We must not give op this tight f<»i proper protection of the hotioui of our boys and gills. Attempts arc being made to inirodiur the Continental ideas of open air dancing in our pub lie parks, and to organise public dam mg halls in our smaller towns, and without wishing in any way to frown upon any innocent and healthy plea sures that are provided for the ra tional amusement of old and young, we contend again these places must be* supervised by lx»tb men and women with authority to contiol th< goingand comings of young people of hot! sexes, who are out late at night un attended by their parents or guardi ans. This work can better be done by well-chosen women than by men. We see with pleasure and pride how our boys and girls are making good in all sorts of professions and trades, and welcome any new avenue for their labour, when their talents may be used for the benefit of the coir munitv and their own adanvtage. From the report as given in the press of the surerss of the visit to New Zealand by the women sent from Eng land to investigate conditions of agri cultural labour as related to women immigrants, we may expect a number of women from the Old Country to rome out to the Colonies with the ob ject of taking up an open-air life. If the project is carried through it will be imperative for either the Home Government to see that they receive the necessary technical and practical knowledge and experience before they leave England, or that our New Zea land Government will provide train ing farms and colleges for women in agricultural work as they have already done for men and boys. So that they will not star* out in a new country under such conditions handicapped bv lack of necessary knowledge, which would probably lead to financial fail ure. and largo numbers would drift into the towns, causing the breakdown of what should be a sucessful and dr sirable scheme. If the women of the Old Country are prepared to take up the work as a living, why should not the* voung women of New Zealand also find an opening for their energies in the same direction. The returned men are insisting that their positions, which have been filled by women duiing theii absence at the war, should be given bark to them, and we arc not saving anything against that, but there is the problem of the woman who has been doing a man’s work, and earning a man’s salary who does •not feel in dined to go back to a smal’er billet Could not many of these strike out into the lighter kinds of farm work, and make it pay just as well as the men. I think it is an opportune time for our societies to ask the Government to provide the necessary means of instruction, and so open up another avenue of work whereby women may be able to earn an independent liveli hood. There is no need to emphasise the fact that women are quite capable, both mentally and physically, of learning to do nnv kind of work

i hey proved that conclusively during the war. GAMBLING. I here is little to report as regards the anti gambling movement. Dur •ng the war gambling was indulged in b\ all sections of society av a means of laising funds for patriotic purposes, and anv person 01 society s* ho darcif to make a protest was frov. ed uj>on We were odd that **uch narrow minded notions should be thrown on one side when money was needed foi (oniforis l<»r the men at the fiont and for the successful carrying on of the war. \\e were asked to stand on one side w hile our young people of the Bible Classes and Churches were tempted to takepart in lotteries and were initiated int » the mysteries of all kinds of gambling games. In spite of public opinion, protests were made through the press and in other wavs, to very little purpose, it seemed at the time. But the broadcast sowing of the seeds of thif national vice, as was done during the war, must inevitably bring a bitter harvesting, and such reform assoc iations as ouis must stand firm to their principles, and reiterate their disapproval of this, as well as of other social evils. The number of days given up to the excitement of horse racing, whose chief attraction is the gambling element, seems to be in creasing. The Government, sonicyears ago, made an attempt to curtail the number of rating events during the year, but the persistent endeavours of the racing fraternity must have won back most of the days that were cut out. It seems to the onlooker that there cannot be many days in the year when there is not a race; meeting in some part of New Zealand. In fact, from a good authority it has been slated that there must be quite }oo race meetings, including trotting matches, in the year. It is a great p.tv 1 hat horse racing should be spoiled by the gambling mania, but the * two alwa>s seem 10 be coupled, and it i*. becoming more and more difficult to persuade the voung men «*nd women who have the spending of their own salaries that there is any harm in petting a few shillings -on a race. S >me churches which in the past have countenanced raffling and other forms of gambling aie now pronouncing against that form of raising funds for church purposes. If the church con s ienee is awakened to this insidious evil, then there is some hope for the future. In America gambling has been made ;♦ n offence aga. st the law when <arried on as a business. In New Zealand it is an offence if carried on as a business by private neople; but the State draws a revenue fun the gambling done through the totalizator. A bookmaker cannot do business on the racecourse, as he is interfering in the State monopoly, but he can take bets outside the racecourse. Again, a bookmaker cannot rairv on his business in the street or keep a house for gambling purposes, but a private person may gather his friend** together in his own home and

• ndulgc in gambling ovei .1 game <»t , ml'' I !»*• laws supposed t" be I hi mu d lot 1 lie restricting »t the gambling evil >eein i«» be of .1 pat* h work formation, .did art of course and often broken, and it not broken, xerx often badly bent. Every now and then tin Stale makes a taid on what is called a gambling den owned and run bx >ome member t»l an alien ’ iacc. This must be a puzzle t » the Oiientals when tb<> know that this same State* is at the same tiiuc profiting by the State con trolled totalisators. 1 he laws of the Chri nan nations must be a cause of much bewilderment to the strangers within our gates Again, the Oriental is punished for working in his garden »»a the Sabbath, when it tl » same tune he sees his tnglish-speak mg neighbour enjoying a chat with • jh.lit email as he mows his lawn Mid tends his vegetable and flower gatdons. I he explanation that one is a business and the other a pleasure, and not for profit, probably does not make it much dearer to the Oriental. far as the W.C T.l’. is concerned, the teaching again >t gambling is mostly confined to the children's meetings. It might be profitably extended to t> c* Voung Peoples Guild* and N Socie tics. \>r\ important w »rk is being done .aasi elririentlx hi the* legal and Par I lament at > dep.irttnent, and the l nions a e kept in close touch with what is being done in Parliament as it touches che intcMests of women and children, and in this last department the women of New Zealand are to be congratulated on having at last, and after many >ears of persistent effort b\ the W.C. T.l T ., bee n accorded an act of justice far too long delayed. I he\ have had the full franchise accorded them as law abiding citizens, and max for the futuie be nominated for a seat in Parliament, and assist in forming the laws they have alxvay* bad to obey in the pa**t without being I rope rlx represented. I he old war «.\ o no taxation without represent.! tioi B - • • 1 • N * s ■ Zealand or Engl md, lor after much siren ous fighting, self-sacrifice, anc suffering, the women of England have also bad the piivilcgc granted them <*l not only voting, but also standing for the* position of membci of the House of Representatives. I lie sc* lirivilegc**were hist given under on age hmita tiou, which has just been removed, and the voting age- for women is tl a omc as for men, that is 21 years. The war, with all its horrors and raise ies, has certainly helped to eliminate some of the most ridiculcn and ntieiuated of our British lav.v \ broader and wider outjook on life Va-> opened up for women the world over There a r e now not many door shut in her face, and what there* arc* will have to be opened in the near future. The do r of the Legislative Ton 1 il ha' been shut with a decided Vang at present, bu; the key was left on the outside when the women "ere

given the light l<> >it in the l.owei I louse, and we can \* ait patiently tin til that do«*i is ai «o ihiown w ide o| en I »« women as wed :»s men. I h.ive so jai only touched on the* three great national evils .with which the W.C.r.r. is waging an unceasing war. There are some -4 do paitments c*f work undertaken hx the mem Ik* is oi tin* 1 ni»»n. 1 ins lnigc* number of departments does not i«*ein to decrease, but rather tends ro increase as the > ars pass. We are sometimes criticised on this point, and it has been said that \'e weaken our efforts against alcohol by undertaking so various a programme. I hat \\e would be more successful if we, like* the Alliance, concentrated on the one great evil, and left ihc others alone until we bad eliminated the Diink Traffic. There is much to be *.aid <*i both sides of the* question, hut it must In rc'ine.’diered that out Society is an active* fighting machine* all the \ ear round, and novel goes into recess, excepting for txxo months each ( hi Lunas time*, and to keep some thousands of women interested and employed continuously, it is necessary to have a variety of interests to suit the* great variety of talents and knoxxlc*dg'* and education. Besides, our motto, for (»o ' t Home, and Hu111.mitv, has unlimited scone, and so xvc continue to branch out in all directions. \\ c* t. ke an actix’e interest in public school reforms, in prison and reformatory' \xork ; some members arc* spe: iali-ing in work among seamen, and are doing splendid work among our sailors; others find an interest in the* distribution of literature; others again take comfort and good cheer to the* sick in the hospitals. Out dark -kiniu d si-te-rs an* not f«»r gotten, although that department is seriously handicapped for need of Or ganisers to travel rmong the Maoris. Some* Bran* h«*s take an interc*st in those who live* in the backblocks and the* lonely gangs *»f iron working on the railwav<. The thoughts of some of our Branches are turning towards the* opening of in<tituti< rs to meet the* various needs of children, young people, and \e nu n. This is good xv )tk. and excite** tin* sympathy of tin* publi towards our l T nion. There are many other questions which might be extensively dc*alt xxith. but these will nrobably be brought forward during Convention, and I xxill n it take up vour time dealing xxith t l n* xx. Such ctuesfions as Total Prohibition » eing lire cause f the rapid spread of the drug habit. Ibis has been * onclusivel proved to be r f.ds » prediction, s h< it** out bv fact ,; and figures The rruurrtenls against State or Mi »nicit>al purchase and control of tb** sab* intoxi' mts been dealt with, both from the nress and plntf rm, dui*)g the last two camt.nims. Alcohol as a medi'ine f r general vs* 1 dining an rnidetnir has been r.igued out at length. • nd I think the

’ivmbt'i', ot this Convention do not : «*«•«! ?•» l>c convinced that it is more taiiMid than us* fui for medicinal pui je»ses Friends, m mniliiuon, we have a ihrc*- years campaign before us, with what wr feel more sine than evci will end with our final battle agaust the IJ.tptor Iridie. We need not he an aid of anything «t have Cod ith .is, and therefore must be successful. It every member will undertake to do then bit, as our brave soldiers at the ti<>nt have done theirs, we will be vie torious over this great enemy of freedom, as they were ovci theirs. We an* not called upon to eudure physical death 01 mutilation, but we have to • omend against a subtle and powerful foe, and we will need all our force, spiritual, mental, and physical, to withstand him. Let us watch, pray, and work, and Cod will crown our • •rf »*s w ith success.