MINUTES OF 37th Annual Convention of the N.Z. W.C.T.U., Held at Hamilton, March 22nd to 30th. 1922.

White Ribbon, Volume 27, Issue 332, 18 April 1922, Page 1

MINUTES OF 37th Annual Convention of the N.Z. W.C.T.U., Held at Hamilton, March 22nd to 30th. 1922.

(Abridged.) LIST OF MEMBERS OF «CONVEN TION. Dominion Officers: Mrs Don, Presi-

dent; Miss Henderson, Cor. Sec.; Mrs Evans, Acting Rec. •Sec.; Mrs Peryman, Editor “W.R.”; Mrs Cowie, World’s MLssiona:: ; M**s Field, Dominion Librarian; Mrs Walke», Maori Organising Treasurer; Miss Earnshaw and Muss Mayo, Organisers. District Presidents: Mrs Neal, Auckland; Mrs Griffin, New Plymouth; Mrs Emmett, Wanganui; Mrs Venables, Na pier- Mrs Wright, Wellington; Mrs Norrie, Timaru; Mrs Goffe, Gisborne; Mrs Scott, Haw era; Mrs Ilia mi res. Hamilton. District Secretaries : Miss N. Dewar, Auckland; Mrs Dickson. New Plymouth; Mrs Densem, Hamilton; Miss Jack-

son, Blenheim; Mrs Day, Christchurch; Mrs Mini tie, Timaru; Mrs Macartney, Dunedin; Miss Dewar, Invercargill; Mrs Jamieson, New Plymouth. District Treasurers: Mrs I’errett, Auckland; Miss Taunt, New Plymouth; Miss Cooke, Nelson; Mrs Ibbotson, Ashburton; Mrs Cliff. Hamilton. Superintendents of Departments: Adjutant Gordon, S.A., Prison and Reformatory Work; Mrs Judson, Peace -*nd Arbitration; Mrs Jones, Notable Days; Mrs Upton. Rest and Refreshment Booths; Miss Powell, Educational Bureau Delegates: Maori-—Mrs Nona, interpreter; Mrs Paikea, Otamatea; Mrs Ed-

wards. I'ort Albert; Mrs Rapana, Vahi; Mrs Poraumati, Organiser. European— Mesdames Cook, Fulljaraes, Goldie, and Williams, Auckland; Miss Wilson, Eden; Miss Rowsell, Whangarei; Miss Le Roy, Birkenbtad; Mesdames Denning and Veats, Takapuna; Mrs Rogan. Onehunpa; Mrs Burnett. Devonport; Mrs Taylor, Otahuhu; Mrs Kenninpton, To Aroha; Miss Rovi.tt, Te Aroha West; Mrs Greenwood, Waihi; Mrs Morton, Hamilton; Mrs Mears, Hamilton E.; Mrs Watson, Cambridpe; Mrs Richards, Morrinsville; Mrs Watkinson, Nparuawahia; Mrs Thompson. Opotiki; Mrs Kihby and Mrs Valentine, New Ply. mouth; Mrs Edgu’\ Te Kuiti; Mrs Gili-vt-r, N pa ere; Mrs Rennett, Manaia; Mrs Chapman. Normanbj, Mrs Tait, Rawera; Mrs Chapman. Wanpanui; Mrs Sharpe, Wanpanui East; Mrs Sleiplit, Aramoho; Mesdames Chittenden and Weston, Palmerston North; Mrs Dunstall. Napier; Mrs Darby. Hastinps; Mrs Nicholson. Dannevirke; Mrs Murphy. Waipukurau: Mrs Ross. Masterton; Mrs Anderson, Carterton; Mrs Whincop, Greytown; Miss Knott, Petone; Mrs Holland. Rower Hutt: Mesdames Miller and Keene. Wellinpton District; Mrs Cauphley. Wellington Central; Mrs Watson. Nelson; Mrs Napier and Miss Bishop, Christchurch District; Mrs Smith. Papanui; Mrs Cole. New RriPhton; Mrs Hawke, Oxford; Mrs Me Dean. Fairlie; Mrs Robinson, Winch-more-Greenstrtet; Mrs Byers-Smith Waimate; Mrs Tiffany and Miss Smith Oamaru; Mrs Peart. N.E. Valley: Mrs McGrepor. Invercarpill; Mrs Mathieson, Tnvercarpill South; Miss Bishop, Pleasant Point. Y Delegates: Misses Pyle and Pudney. Auckland; Miss Gilmour, Oxford; Miss Stewart. Tnvercarpill. Proxies: Mrs Jemison, for Kaiapoi; Mrs Hales, for Ormondville; Mrs Haye. for Wakefield; Mrs Miller, for Greymouth: Miss Dewar (Auckland), for Woodville; Mrs Bennett, for Turakina. Executive meetinp held on Wednesday. March 22nd. General Convention opened Thursday, March 23rd. Psual devotional service, with short address based on Psalm 78. Minutes of last meetinp (1921 Convention) and confirmed. Roll Call, 106. about 40 attendinp Con vention for first time. Appointments: Committee of Couitesies: Mesdames Morton and Cliff. Convention Letter Writer: Mrs Day (Christchurch). Press Reporters: Rocal pap rs. the Christchurch delegates (3). Post Office Duties: Mrs Densem. Reporters for Special Newspapers: : Outlook, Mrs Cowie; Methodist Times, Mrs Ibbotson; War Cry, Mrs Whincop; Enplish 'White Ribbon, Mrs Peryman; Vanpuard. Mrs Neal; N.Z. Baptist. Mrs Emmett; Nation. Mrs Jemison. Pole-

gates to arrange reports for own districts. Greetings from Auckland District, Oamaru, Invercarpill District, Takapuna, Invercarpill Y’s, Mrs Young (Supt. Y’s), Waitara, New Plymouth, W.C.T.U. of Western Australia, Women Rechabites of Ashburton (through Miss Kennedy). —Resolved: Delegation be sent to Quinquennial Rechabites’ World’s Convention. to be held in Wellinpton, April 4th. Mrs VVright and President to arrange same. Special greetings to be sent to the only white woman on Rittle Barrier Island, a White Uibboner and subscriber to “White Ribbon.” Special greeting given to Mrs Medland, a White Ribboner from Great Barrier Island, present in Convention, though not a delegate. Corresponding Secretary’s Report read and adopted, showing 16 new Rnions formed. 5091 adult members, 495 Y’s. Organisers’ Reports read and adopt, d. High tributes paid to enthusiasm and excellent work of both. Proxies appointed for Kaiapoi, Ormondville. Wakefield, and Greymouth. Tribute of affection and appreciation paid to four Temperance pioneers, viz.: Mrs Miller (Auckland), Mrs Dewar (Auckland). Miss I'owril, Miss Maunder. Noontide prayer. Mrs Cook (Auckland). Treasurer's Report and Balance-Sheet read and adopted. Mrs Neal brought greetings from Mrs Bcndely. Resolved to send her loving greetings. EVENING SESSION, 7 p.m. (in place of afternoon session, postponed). Devotions. Mrs Wright, assisted by Mrs I’pton. Minutes read and confirmed. Roll, 107. President delivered address. Masterly survey of the position of the Temperance cause throughout the world. Rev. J. Dawson addressed Convention. He brought greetings from N.Z. Alliance, Miss Slack, Miss Anna Gordon. Mrs Wheeler, and Headquarters Staff at Evanston. He gave convincing evidence that, in spite of “Our Own Correspondents’ ” reports. Prohibition in America is a marvellous success, that statements as to increase of drug habit are absolutely false, and that ir. all respects the outlook is most cheering. He referred to the Congress, showing changed attitude of Governments of world towards Prohibition; stated that even England was stirred as never before, and that churches, Anglican and Nonconformist, were throwing all their energies into Temperance work. He pointed to hopeful signs in New Z< aland. touched

on the difficulties, and stressed the necessity for constant education of voters, especially the young women voters, and for untiring persistence in efforts to convert those still opposed to Prohibition. He closed w-ith an impassioned appeal to wmrk on in the power of prayer and faith in God. On Mrs Peryman’s motion, u hearty vote of thanks to Mr Dawson was carried with acclamation,

FRIDAY MORNING, MARCH 24th. Devotions. Mrs Cowie. assisted by Mrs Wright. Mrs Cowie gave an im pressive call to repentance based on story of Zacchaeus. Roll call, 109. Minutes read and confirmed. Greetings from Invercargill S., Nelson, Wellington District. Wellington Central, Carterton, Sawyer’s Bay, Rower Hutt, Ashburton. WinchmoreOreenstreet, Mrs K M. Sheppard, and Mr Pirrett on behr-’f of Auckland Rechabites. Resolved to send letters of love and sympathy to Mrs Gaskin (Greymouth), Miss Roberts (Christchurch), and Mrs McKee. Mrs Peryman, on behalf of Mrs Ben dely, appealed for donations to N.Z. Funds. Sum of £77 12s 6d promised. Adjutant Gordon. Superintendent for Prison and Reformatory Work, apologised for neglect, through misunderstanding. to send in a departmental report, and briefly addressed Convention on great good being done by probation work among women, and appointment of women probation officers. Departmental Reports: Scattered Members: Mrs Cowie urged Unions to take up this work, and thus obtain a network of members over the backblocks. —Adopted Evangelistic and Mothers' Meetings.— Adopted. Notable Days.—Adopted. Dominion Librarian's Report.—Sun gestions asked for books that might be useful, or offers of books from members. Executive recommended grant of £5 be made for purchase of new books.—Carried. Mrs Mitchell, formerly Dominion Rec. Sec., visited Convention, and w'us warmly welcomed by her old comrades. Maori Work Report and BalanceSheet: Reference made to the large Maori Unions’ meeting at Batley, attended by Mrs Poraumati nnd Mrs Fulljame*. Noontide devotions conducted by Mrs Pouramati, who. at request of Presldent, gave rn account of /ior work as Maori missionary for 30 years, and recently as Maori Organiser, and of her visit to Ratana’s groat meeting at Wanganui last Christmas. The Maori sisters gave a Maori hymn.

AFTERNOON CESSION. Devotions, conducted by Mrs Bla mires. Roll call, 107. Minutes read and confirmed. Miss Dewar (Auckland) appointed proxy for Woodville. Resolved that a letter of appreciation be sent to Mrs Hewett for Maori work done by her in past years. Mrs Fulljames gave short account of her visit to Ratley. and spoke of the pleasure she had felt in being in a Maori home permeated with the spirit of prayer. Maori Report adopted. Greetings received from Petone. Christchurch. N.E. Valley Rand of Hope, Rakaia. Reports: Work Among S’.anifti: President explained origin of £2OO that Superintendent has in hand for her work. Convention was to decide how it should be spent. Correspondence was read between Mrs Nimmo and Lady Dimsdale. showing - that the money was intended for use in work among seamen, preferably for helping Sailors’ Rests established by W.C.T.U. Of these, only two at present in Dominion, at Timaru and at Greymouth. but establishment of a third contemplated at New Plymouth. On motion of Mrs Prryman. a small committee, consisting of Mrs Wrighl and the mover, appoint'd to confer with Mrs Nimmo. and report to Executive before finally taking: action. Report adopted Good Citizenship: Tr connection with this report. Mrs Judson drew' attention to a small pamphlet. “The Child’s Code of Morals,” one of the best handbooks for inculcating: into children th*’ spirit of pood citizenship and true patriotism. A notice of it had appeared in the “White Ribbon.” and sho was ready to supply one copy to each Union that wished to have it. Report adopted. Educational Bureau.—Supt. urped Unions to make all rr.eetinps educative, for which Education'll Rureau pave excellent opportunities She appealed to members to send her suitable papers whenever passible. Report adopted. Miss Henderson broupht forward a proposal re abolition of District Unions as at present constituted. After full discussion and explanation, it was evident that Convention sympathised with the propasal, and on motion of Mrs Peryman. it was resolved the N.Z. officers should be a committee to divide the Dominion into districts and draw’ up a suppested Constitution embodyinp the propased scheme, to be presented at next Convention. In consequence, Mrs Wripht. with consent of Convention, withdrew her notice of motion. Session closed in usual way.

SATURDAY MORNING, MARCH 25th Devotions, conducted by Mrs Peryman. “Elijah under the junipei tree.” Roll call, 105. Minutes read and confirmed. Letter read from World’s Supt. of Food Reform. Handed to Mrs Neal to be answered. Reports: Kihle in Schools and Sabbath Observance: Discussion as to powers of School Committees and Education Hoards respectively to permit Rible readinp in schools acoordinp to Nelson system. A demand made by Rotorua School Committee. and supported by 25 other School Committees and two Church Councils, and a numerously signed petition had been refused by Auckland Education Hoard, the legality of w’hose action was questioned. Delepates. also members of School Committees, not unanimous. “White Ribl»on T.ditoi promised to obtain legal opinion in Wellington, and publish same in “White Ribbon.” Resolved: That recommendation po forth from Convention to all Unions to nominate for School Committees and for Education Roards men and women sympathetic with adoption of Nelson system in all schools. Report adopted. Mower Missions and Philanthropic Work: Report adopted. Scientific Temperance Instruction: Reference made to tw’o leaflets obtained from America by Supt., and sent to Convention for free distribution, one in particular beinp suitable for readinp at Union meetinps. Also to Govern m« nt Report No. 13. and to scheme of prizes inaupurated by N.Z. Alliance for essays on its subject mattvr, for junior and senior school children and for adults. Report No. 13 suitable for teachers and parents rather than child ren, and arranpements beinp made in all districts of the Dominion for a house to house d stribution of report Report a ’opted. I*rison aid Reformatory Work: No report, owinp to misunderstandinp. but on invitation of President. Mrs Cole addressed Convention on educational work among women prisoners in Addinpton Gaol. She reported condition of women prisoners preatb improved some years apo through efferts of women like Mrs Cunnington and Mrs Gardiner, backed by Influence of Comp-troller-General. Rut more needed. Prisoners occupied all day w r ith heavy w’ashinp from men’s side, and from 5.30 p.m. till morning condemned to solitary confinement. Several months apo Mrs Cole appointed Government Instructor to these girls, and authorised to visit them at any time and under any circumstances. Tacttully overcoming difficulties that arose at first, she succeeded before long in establishing right relations between the girls

and herself, and w’inninp their love and confidence. Her basic principle to secure the natural evolution of each girl on natural lines, and refrain from undue emphasis on lapses of discipline. Now, i t addition to favourable external surroundings, there w’as regular instruction from Mrs Cole on two afternoons a week, from 2 to 4, in reading, writing, arithmetic, essay writing, and accountancy, according to the requirements or desires of tlie girls. These are mastly State girls, whase opportunities have been small, and who in many cases have not committed flagrant offences With the humane treatment secured through Mrs Cole’s work, they were already making good. Mrs Cole told pathetic stories of some, stressed necessity for better classification, and appealed to members to help with love and sympathy these girls, “who are really our own girls.” They had now been removed to Point Halswell, where their environment was slill more favourable to right development. Miss Henderson endorsed all that had been said, and pleaded for the older women —mostly ruined by drink—who now occupied Addington Gaol, whose chief hope lay in the carrying of Prohibition. Mrs Peryman called attention to difference between sentences passed on the girls, often for comparatively minor offences, and those passed on men for brutal assaults on little children. Session closed with prayer.

MONDAY MORNING. MARCH 27th. Devotions, conducted by Maori delegates, led by Mrs Noda and Mrs Poura matt. Roll Call, 106. Minutes read and confirmed. Mrs Auld. once President of Hamilton Union, welcomed as visitor to Convention. Mrs Rennett appointed proxy for Turakina Resolved to send telegram of welcome to Mr Tomlinson, High Chief Ruler of Rcchahites, Just arrived in Auckland to attend Quinquennial Council. Greetings from Feilding. Hope of Dundein Good Templars. Normanby, and an old member (Hamilton). Mrs Cowie. leaving (Convention for important Temperance work, spoke a few' words of encouragement and advice. Mrs Peryman, “White Ribbon" Editor, presented report and balance-sheet. In spite of heavy expenses, year’s operations show’ed debit balance of only about £2. thanks to certain donations. T-ast year's debit balance of £32 17s would probably be wiped off during coming year, as expense of paper and printing already coming down. Subscribers. 3698. Over 600 copies distribute ed free by Organisers. Many tributes of appreciation to Mrs Pervman’s work, and excellent tone and great value of “White Ribbon."

Executive momm'iulcil reappoint inent of Mm r«T)m««ii os Editor aml Huslne** .Manager tYirned with acclamation. Kvnutive mumiu ndt-il following grant* In connection with “Whitt* liib boat": 01 £25 honorarium to Editor, (21 £K. honorarium to Huainc** Man agrr, from th* “Whitt* Klbbon" Fund. (3) (25 for pnntiiiK Convention uuiulm r. (II (& for telephone, from N '/. Tna *ui) . lin t ea.se uf (to for printing Convention numb r to 4* onl> for this )*nt. not to la* a pit*ee«lent. It* commendation a*lopte«l. Mr* Jiubon nominattd an AMturiatf Editor. Vote of thunk* pa mm* «I to her for service* In past >ear. li4‘*M>ltititm<» hrouKht forward from Iteaolutlon* Committee:1. Resolved: That. considering the evil of drinking on train*, with It* at i oinpanyi me Inconvenience* to |*a*sen lit*m. Mt III exist*. the Minister for Kailway* In- uiii*d to enforce more strictly the regulation controlling the drinking of intoxicating liquor* on tniin*. 2. Resolved: TAiat Convention ex-prt-MM It* appreciation of .the action of the Railway mpsrtnuni lr. providing separate lavatory accomimslatlon on train*. un*l urge* a »p' -dy extension of the syst* tn, 2. Resolved: That Convention once more prva* up«*n P.i'liam* nt the urgent need for an increase in the amount of iH-naion paid to widow* with children, and aleo for an unpiovcni* nt in the condition* of i»u>inent. I. Itenolved: That It Im* a recommendation to all Colon* tt ,t cand dite* fo Parliament la- asked whether they are pM-par«-«l to support the social reform** ;»dvo«ate*l by the t’nlon. In connection with thin resolution. It wa* urged that can didst us should l*«* asked question* at Much public mot imn» mm would k likely to have full re|n»ilm in ‘hi’ n* WMpaperi*. so (hut their answer Mhould l*e made public. Mr* rornumatl w* h**«l to bring up ievolution urging that Maori* should b»* riven power to vote at Licensing Poll. Mim* Henderson pointed out that In* matter* affectlnK legislation the fkv minion Pnion arned to act only in con junction with N.Z Alliance. But Convention proiKwed that Mn Porauinati Mhould take action union* the Maoris themaelvcH. believing that would carry more weight with the Government than similar action taken by Convention. After d‘*cu**lon r* nominating W.C T.U- member* for thla year'a I*arlla mentary election. It wra* considered ad viaahle to leave the matter to the din cretlon of Individual Pnlons. A* a*ion closed with the lb nedlctlon.

MONDAY APTBRNOON. MARCH 27 DevotionM conducted by Y nn ml>**ra. asMMted by Mia* F.irnshaw and Mm l*lrrott.

Roll call, lot. Minutca read and confirmed. On motion of Mrs Wright. th*> followInr resolution wbm carried: Wc desire to pUic«* on r*cord our highest apt reflation of thi- *pl« ndi*l m ivies of Mix I'eryman, our White Hihbui Editor, for ull her unselfish devotion to our interest*, and for the high tone of the urtlcle*. and the great h*lp received by «very I'nion front Editorial* and other matter. White Ribbon Kditor made usual appeal for promlaea of purchase of Convet ion Number. 1$«0 copies were ordered. A Xehool of Methmi* was h«*ld to l! luctrate atKUin* nt* used when canva* alng for new members for W.C.T.P. <W»JectiouM often raised bv outsider* were answered. and the imuectarkin character of our Organisation w;u- r»n phaslscd. and the true standard* mii* g*Mt*«d for determining It* rlrht to Im* called “Christian.*'

President give Information ;<• to visit of Dr. Mary Harris Armor Extra* 1* from letters were read, revelling her In ten*e enthusiasm and eagerness to a* hi d in Vi w Zealand’a fight i.i spite of a recant severe bereavement. American Pnion had generously Stihserthsd toon dollars toward* her oversea’s ex|M*ns*s. but Dominion Treasurer was responsible for her sa’ary and her New Zealand travelling expense*. Her componton, Miss I usbv, who was paying her own expenses, was willing to address Pnlona and take drawing room meeting* in order to assist in the fight First welcome to the visitors would he in Wellington: the Dominion President would attend, and Wellington District President hoped many would come from surrounding Pnlons to take part. An (special welcome |MM*m had been w’rlttcn for It by Mrs Cowie. Hospitality mud Im* provide*! for iMith visitom. preferably In private home, and in separate rooma. Expense* at local meetings Hall, advertising. etc. Including hoard and ItMlrings. when paid for. to Im* d> fray***! from lo<*al collections nt Dr Armor's meetings, an*! ha la nee paid over to V Z. Treasury. Itinerary read. On motion of Mrs Cook (Auckland! ’uarty vote «*f thank* and appri intion prissed to Amerl* an Pnion for their generous vot*> for oversea’s expenses l<t-«<»l\ed also to .-end personal letter of thanks to Miss Gordon, who had been mainly Instrumental in securing the vote. On motion of Mrs Wright. Convention I Missed a resolution expr* ssing intense satisfaction at the invitation to !>r. Ar mor having beejt accepted President urged Pnion* to work hard to secure a worthy reception They must enter on a n* wspaper campaign to make Dr. Armor's lecture tour known and work up interest In It; must Interview Kditor*. get biographical sketch In serted In |»ar>era. and press notices of

appreciation a* to her pow« rs of one tory. She appealed to member* to ae cept their responsibility and rise to the occasion and make the |«4-ture campaign agn at sui’cea* Th* co operation of all other Temperance societies would Im* heartily welcomed. Hess ion Hosed as usual with |>ia>er.

Tl KSDAY MORNING. MARCH 2S. 1 N*votions londucted bj Mrs I’pton. hYivouiite quotation* given. Roll call 10« Minute* read and confirmed Greeting* from Mrs Dewar (Auckland. Palmerston North, Wangs nui K. latter from Mis Duxfield, Urging the value of the I.T.L. in teaching how to vote in the licensing poll. Discussion on plans of comimign. Chief point.** emphasised: (1) Importance of 1..T.L and Rind of Ho|x> work, (21 Immediate purging of rolls, noting removal* from a district and direful watching of action of Liquor Party, e.g., enrolling young people* under 21. (21 Work of Organiser* to strengthen weak Pnlons and organise new. not to collect memlM*rship fees; stronger Pnlona must exercise self-denial in seeking help from Organiser*. (4) Personal work moat valuable, to find out an*! answer objection*, arrange for transfers In ruse of removal*, to note death* adv» rti*ed. and make out lists for future purging of rolls. (5) Obtain and a**irnilate latest information re Prohibition in America, etc.; exi-ellent pamphlets available at N.Z. Alliance, 111 g t «*11 <* « touch with Immigrants, to educate them and urous* their Interest; also prevent their iM-ing put on roll too soon. (71 Educating voters by mock ballot*. (X) Stir up indifferent voters who will not trouble ahou Licensing Poll. President brought forward recommendation from Executive that Mi** Powell Im- employed a* Organiser for six months b* fore the |m>||. by the N Z. Psion, to cont ent rate on Dunedin and neighlMiurhood. .-alary to he |taid by Dunedin Pnion Carried Pre ident announced that Mr* Cole intended working for Prohibition from now to the Poll, and would give help to any Pnion that wished to invite her. \i it Cop North Brighton. Christchurch. Noontide devotion* Mrs McGregor and Miss Dewar (Auckland). Letters of sympathy to br sent to Mr* Scnnlnn and Mr McDermott. I.ettei received from Mayor of Ham tlton expressing his thanks and congratulations on the high stand taken up by the Pnion on public questions, and to the moral uplift to the district through Convention meeting in Hamilton. Resolved that the letter should be published In the “White Ribbon” Con vention number. Mrs Neal drew attention of member* to the lit future she had in connection

with h* r Hoi], He.. an-1 Medical T« mpernn* Umiiton Hoard with prayer.

AFTERNOON SESSION. MARCH 2*tl». I devotions. Field and Mr* Wright. Roll rail, IM. Minute* rend and confirmed. Greeting* from Oanviru No License A* socintion annual me# ting, and from Auckland Rechablto* In reply to tele gram. Report*: and Refreshment Booth**.— Adopted. link Block* and W *»rl4 Among Kail way men Adopted At tea mmd, intonating r mnonj took plnre, presenting a New Teata* ment to Jean I>onald*on Ewan. hnbv girl baptlaad and admitted to N Z. W.CTIT. Cradle Roll during Conveiitlon serviif on Sunday morning. InItiatory service wo* held. admitting Mr* Kwan to membership. and a small l*>y, Kric S. L. Brown, to N.Z. W.C.T.U. Cradle Roll. |ie|Hirt re Head«|ii*rter»: Mi* Hender*on reported that enquiries had In-rn made re suitable site* that headunatter* was to be memorial to Mr* A. RAtkinson, hut nothing definite could he done till more fund* were available Treasurer had already over £2OO. raised by various Unions. Wellington had £*9 In view. Dunedin £2O. N.E. \alley fgft. Christchurch about £IOO. raised as a memorial to Mrs Fnnny Cole, and to )m> donated to Hcadcjuartcr* on coivlt tlon *ome part of the building be de.llrated to memory of Mr* Cole. Rccomin* ndatlon .from Exec utive it' connection with Orgnni?n K Fund, that all Union* be asked to pay UP o*' n *‘ sessment of 1/- a year per in« mb*-r. Financial posit’o.i of Organising Fund •orlous. Credit balances were: FVhrti ary 1920. £*or»: February. 1921 1 February. 1922. £241. Current expen. e* not being met by receipts from Unions. and at present rate Fund would I* exhausted by next November With two Organisers working. annual expona** wet' 1 ftoo uh'ih 10,1 sen reel y be met. even with full payment* from all Unions Evidently some Fnlon* have not understood their responsibility, but Preside nt nppea * d to all to make an effort to raise the as sessment. which should not be paid from ordinary Fnlon Income. An Organger's life was very arduous, anl Unions should try and see that suitable hoard and lodging was aval’ahle at * reasonable price. Re- omr -endntlon oerned. Report**: Press and I.iterative— Adopted. |V: M e ami Arbitration: With consent of President, the ftiipt. addressed Core vention at some bngth dwelling on the power e f thought to influence either for good or evil, the consequent duty of all, especially women. to cheek

thoughts of dislike anel hatred. and to radiate love and p**ace ground. Hh«‘ pointed out that some advance had Ih'OH made, as proved by the Washington Conference and the' I.cogue* «*f Nation*, Put spirit of war was still rampant, and hr in tele - ' ral pirn 1 1* al • ’ (1) Union appoint local superintendent to note- anything tending to pence. bring it before other*, and so rai.se the standard of thought. (?) Introduce into schools greater le»v« f«>r spirit of peace', anel more international spirit, striving for union of all nation*, Instead «»• th< narrower patriotism that thinks only of one's own country. <*> Discourage toy* and game* of warlike character. (O Union form itself Into a league foi promotion of pence that when war threatens or disruption oe*cur*. member* might send out thought* of love and peace to thos-* ruling the destinies of the world. If this elone all over the world, a force would be produces! that nothing could withstand, and war would Is* impossible. Reference *;».*< made by various niem Is rs. in following discussion, (1) to Jap-

anese old lady that carried to America her petition for pence so that Union* the'ie' wen* stirred to make a * Proclamation" in favour of disarmament; (2i to wonderful inoveme nt among the? teacher* of U.H.A. to foster spirit of peace among the children, as described in Ul». Gibbs’* book. “Destiny of Nations”; (3) to the fact that Germany had for 40 years impressed on her children the? idea of war. and if such action were reversed throughout the world, universal peace* must tollow; (I) to proposed essay competition in A lickland, where a suggestion was carried nt public meeting to inak< subject of e* ray*. not “Battle* of the War.' but what the children thought would do me*st to raise* the Empire for which the boys had died; <sl to desirability of pressing for the* establishment of lnte*r national Uourts. President suggested that a “Proclamation" on the* subject should Ik* drawn up anel submitted to Uonvcntion. Mrs Judsou ask'd to prepare this. Report adopted Resolved (by silent voted: That thi Convention eh sires to express its loving appreciation e»f the late Mrs A. R. Atkinson's ion : and loyal service for the W.C.T.U. Convention deplores the loss of one whose clear Judgment, great ability, and wide knowledge made her a valuable leader* while her gentle courtesy and loving consideration for othe*rs endeared her to all. Resolved: That a letter of -ympathy b sent from Convention to the* family of the late* Countess of Carlisle. Session closed with the Benediction.

WEDNESDAY MORNING. MARCH 29 Devotions, ’ ducted by Mrs took (Auckland). Fgv >urlte hymns. Roll call. 1 *’•. Minutes read and confirmed.

Mrs Blnmlre*. on >»ehslf of Uonven tlon. presented lovely liouquct to tti«* President and other platform officer*, with a few words of aff* mate green Ing. Suitable replies were made. Greeting* from Op»dlki. I .ett* r* of app'eelatlon received from two n< wiy admitted member*, cxpreH,--inir gratitude for help received from Convention meeting*, and determination to promote th* work of the 1 nion. On motion of Mrs Judson. seconded by Mrs Peryman. following Proclamation was carried unanimously

|*riHlaination. This Convention of the W.C.T.U. do dares its firm and unalterable convlc tlon that some better method should be found for settling International dl* put** one more in keeping with the principles of Christianity, and espr dally with its central teaching of th.* universal brotherhood of mankind With deep gratitude we note that hv the calling of a Conference the hading statesmen of great nations have declared their belief that world disarmament Is within the region of practical poll tics, and thnt by pledging themselves to the reduction of armaments, the leading nations have already taken the first step In that direction. We. members of th*' Convention, then foie i'.•'dee cur selves, individually and collectively, to strive unceasingly for the removal of all causes of war. and to work for the establishment of n new social onW, hosed on lovr and <*o operation for the common good. And W’p urge our nvm h*»rs. by using their influence. and hv the training of their children in »he principles of Christian love and rood will »o all. to help to create such a pub lie sentiment ns will lead to the *et» : n" up of International Courts **(. Arbltra tion and thus hasten the coming of the time when “the nations shall heat their swords Into ploughshares and their spearr into pruning hoot and there shall he no more wrtr."

Mrs Judson asked delegate* to hr|n~ ♦hi* before their Unions for ratification as soon as possible, and "end her word nt once, that she might report to the World's Superintendent. Reports: Medical Temperance: v\ *' ct M' nee* 1 e*l for education on this snhiect. though several testified that doctor <n lncrea. ing numbers wen ceasing to prescribe abmhol. Report adopted Anti-Gambling: Mo t urgent need for this work Petting far worse thnn In America or Canada. Protests against Increase of racing perm t* had no effeet, and a motion In Parliament to abolish th" totalizator was treat'd as a joke. \tt ntlon drawn to nn eveel’en* pamphlet on gambling prepared by Rev. J J. North, of ChrWchureh. Report adopted.

( r.ulb Roll, L.T.L., Itaml of M«try, Narcotics, Vs Krporl, Social and Moral llyiirnr: Reports adopted. Attention drawn to pamphlets and other literature in connection with some of these departments Legal ami Parliamentary: Report adopted. Herndon clawed as usual. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, MARCH MCfe Ik-votions, conducted by Mrs Keene and Minn Co( lu (N*lson). Roll cull. HI. Greetings frim Dunedin District and Mrs Dirk (Pun*din). Resolutions from Resolution* Committee:

5. This Convention supports the request now being made for a Commission to enquire into the prevalence of venerea 1 disease in New Zealand, and the »H*st means of combating it. Car ried. 6 This Convention urges Parliament to make such ant* ndmen** of the Crimes Act a* are necessary to give effect to the proposals of the Prison.* Hoard (appended below) in regard to sexual offences. Resolution of Prisons Hoard. "Whereas an increasing number of sexual offences has been the subject of frequent and serious Judicial comment, especially in cases wh< re young children were the victims, or the very serious nature of the charge connoted a perversion dangerous to the moral w* llbeing of society, and as the experience of the Board in dealing with prisoners of this class accords, as far as it woes, with the now generally actspted opinion that, with certain exceptions, persons committing unnatural offences lahour under phyataal disease or disability, or mental deficiency or disorder, or both, which accounts for the sexual p* rversion and the morbid character of the offence charged, it it #resolved by the Prisons Hoard to strongly recommend to the Government an amendment of the Crimes Act under which such offenders could be dealt with scientifically: (1) Before sentence is pronouneed by furnishing expert medical or surgical reports or evidence; (2) by sanctioning an indeterminate sentence; (3) by segregating persons so sentenced, and subjecting them, under proper safeguard. to any medical or surgical treatment which may t** d* emed necessary or expedient, either for their own go«nl or in the public interest ” Resolution carried. 7. That Unions be urged to give Iheir earn*st support to the efforts that are being made to secure: (1) The raising •f the age of consent; (2) the Increase of \ f made, from 6 months to 12 months; (3) the abolition of the pow* r now allowed to a person accused of a sexual offence against a girl to plead that he believed

the girl to be "of or over the* age* of sixteen." Carried. Presentation of Itannrr*. Membership Banners presenter! as under:— (1) Adult Unions—Absolute Increase: Tlmarti. 62 increase. (2) Adult Unions —Percentage of Increase: Pevonport, Ul per cent. (3) Y Unions Absolute Increase and Percentage: Nelson Y’s, 22 per rent. Congratulations to Presidents of win ni tg Unions. (liiesticm Box: Mary questions answered by President or other officers. Chief points, besides those alnady dealt with in Convention: (1) Union President always occupies the chair, unless she requests Evangelistic Supt. to take* her place during devotions. (2] New Unions cannot be organised except by Organiser, Dominion officers, or District Superintendents, but any member can do preliminary work in preparation for organising. (3) When Prohibition has been carri* d. Unions will have plenty of work in law enforcement and in w’ork ing other departments. (!) T. E. Taylor Day might well be extended to )>e Memorial Day for all Temperance workc rs that have passed away. C») Annual Increase of members reckoned by Dominion Treasurer from IVccmber 31st to following Deremt*»r 31st; Unions from end of their financial year to same • nding next year; (6) Executive minutes are not rend at Union meeting only recommendations from Executive brought up for acceptance or other wise. l") Voting for officers at Union annual meeting must be* p< rsonal. not by envelopes from absentees (see Constitution "bocal Union." p. 16. Art. 1!) (S) "Shouting" is not now illegal. (9) It would not t*e wise fo** Convention to a* k Government to give only two Issues on licensing billot paper; in such matters it Is bettor to ac t with the N Z. Alliance. (10) Better to choose delegates for Convention by ballot In Union meeting rather than by nomination from Executive. In accordance with expressed wish of Convention, collection taken up for starving children of Russia, and sum of £5 Ss raised and handed to the Mayoress. /Initiation Service held. Six new members admitted. Invitation for 1923 Convention: Dunedin and Inv< rcargill invited. Invercargill accepted. R-*c .mmeiMlatioiis from Executive: (1) That all funds contributed to th«* national scheme* of (In* W.C.T.U. shall be* paid in to the Dominion Treasurer, and the amounts to be c xpended on departmental work be allocated by Convention to Superintendents concerned. Adopted. • (2) That grants to Superintendents of Departments he increased as may Is* necessary, £1 to be maximum, and Superintendents to make application to

Dominion Treasurer for amount required. Adopted. (3) That a new itooklet of information on points tha 4 are apt to puzzle Unions Is* prepared, and the old booklet on Work of Departments be brought ur-to-date, and a fresh supply be ,»rinte<i with the* new booklet.—Adopted. G) That usual grants be made for telephones for the use of the President and the Corresponding Secretary respectively.—Adopted. 5. That a new Department of bib rarie* )h- created, to give* the Dominion Librarian the status of a Superintend c*nt of Department.—Adopted. |.>ominion Superintc ndents were reappointed en bloc, except the Press Supt., to which Mrs Den.seni, of Hamilton Union. w;i* appointed. Owing to the departure of Miss Helyer on a long holiday trip, department of Scientific T< mperance Instruction was left vacant, for Executive to Ml up. Session closed with the Benediction. THURSDAY MORNING. MARCH 30th Devotions. Mrs Don. who gave a farewell message of encouragement baaed on the* faith of Abraham, as deM*rils*d in the* "Chapter of Uaith." Hebrews 11. Roll call. 101. Minutes of two previous sessions read and confirmed. In reply to question, it was stated that S 3 new members, including 10 g, ntlemen. had been admitted during the I 'on vent ion.

Election of Officers: Mrs Peryman and Miss Ea rns haw were appointed tellers. Th* election, which in every case was unanimous, resulted as follows •- President: Mrs Don. Corresponding Secretary: Miss H«nderson. Recording Secretary: Mrs Kvaas. Treasurer: Mrs Rendely. Each one was accorded an enthusiastic greeting, which w;is responded to with a f- w words from each. An appreciative farewell wr«* given to the Maori delegatee, who were compelled to leave early to catch their train. A message of loving greeting was reeelved from Mrs Bendely, to whom, in her illness, her work as N.Z. Treasurer was one of the most powerful in fluences in keeping up her courage and hopefulness, A small presentation was made, on b» half of some of the m**ml>ers of Convention. to Mr and Mrs Densem, Mrs Morton, and Mrs .Ion«s (convener of Homes Committed, as a slight token of their unfailing kindness and attention to delegates, in spite of great difficulties arising from the housing problem and the want of trams. The President nominated Mrs Crabb as Vice President-in Chief Convention appointed Mrs Evans ns Custodian of Records. Miss Henderson gave notice of the following motions;- -

(1) That I. or someone In my plac*, will move at n«xt Convention that Art. VII. of Local Constitution (p. 161. he amended t»y striking out all the words after "amended,” and substituting in lieu thereof the w’ords "by a two-thirds majority of the members present at th<* Annual Convention, notice having been given at the previous Convention." (2) That no District or Ix>cal Union shall purchase property, or sell property already held, without the consent of the K*-w Zealand Executive. Convention was then adjourned for half an hour to allow of the distribution of the “Typed Report.” just re. c< ived, and of the departure of some members who desired to catch the mid* day trains. On resuming, the following votes of thanßs were passed: (11 The Hosts and Hostesses, with special mention of Mrs Hilling, who had entertain*d three of the Maori delegates, thus enabling them to attend (’onventlon. *(2| The Entertaining Unions, with special mention of Mrs R lam ires, Mr and Mrs Densem, Mesdatms Morton and Cliff (Committee of Courtesies), and Mrs Jones (convener of Homes Committee). (5) The Trustee® of London Street M< thodist Church and Schoolroom for allowing the use of the church buildings. (4) The Caretaker of the Church. (f>) The ladies of the various churches and other organisations that had provided afternoon tea and fruit. (6) The Manager of the Experimental Farm at Ruakura and his wife, and all others who w’ere responsible for the bounteous entertainment of Convention. (7) The Mayor and Mayoress, for their cordial w< lrome at the Reception and other functions; to all who by speech, song, or recitation had assisted, on various occasion®, in ihe entertainment of the Convention. (5) Rev. E. O. Rlamires. for the Convention service on Sun«iay morning. (9) The Adjutant of the Salvation Army for arrant. (fig for the Hand to lead the parade on Sunday morning. (10) The Convention Letter Writer and the member who prepared the “Typed Report.” (11) To th* Principals of Brain’s Com mercial College for *he|r courteous and generous treatment of the Convention In their preparation of the typed Report. (12) The Press and the Reporters. (13) The Auditors. Mr Garrntt. Am tonga Avenue, Auckland. Mr A. (lhave, C.lsborne, and Mr Lynneberg. Ngaio. The Convention was closed with Benediction.

PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS. Never before in the history of mankind has there been such a worldwide interest shown in the liquor traffic. The respectability of “The Trad?” is gone. Its popularity has passed the zenith of its power. For centuries it has dominated and controlled, but it does so no longer. It has b» en prohibited in the United States of America. Canada, and other places. It has been restricted and regulated, and socn *ve hope to sw***p the traffic in Intoxicants from the commercial and social life of the world. “ENGLAND.” In Great Britain, whilst the latest Licensing Act extends the hours of

drinking, they are still very greatly reduc'd as compared with pre-war hours. Nevertheless, drunkenness is still steadily increasing amongst both wromen and men, in a distressingly tragic manner. Thb Hon. Lief Jones, commenting on the world’s unemployment and the Government’s inability to find a solution of th* problem, said: “And yet the people of England were spending eight millions a week on drink, which did nothing but accentuate the problems and difficulties with width we were faced.” The same week, Sir Leo Mooney, writing in the “labour Leader,” say*: “England’s Drink Bill, which amounts to about £169.000.000 a year, spent by the masses of the people,

is the pritfe of 400.000 good houses a Near, for £I,OOO, even in these days, builds a nice little house on a good b*t of freehold land.” Fancy drinking in a year the homes of 100,000 families.

INDIA The recently formed World League Against Alcoholism declares the independent States of India are b, ginning to take the leadership ef the Indian Empire in adopting the Prohibition policy. The Independent State of Ni pal, which is not a British possession, has gone “dry," and it Is the beginning of great things in that country. Three have alnadv taken the step; others have taken it in a modified form. The Moslem State of Bhopal, the only State of India ruled by women, is adopting partial Prohibition, under the influence of the Queen, or "Begum.” In Ceylon, large numbers of liquor shops have been closed by popular vote under the Loeal Option laws. When Scotland took her first vote under the Scottish Act (1920). no less than 4(51.396 out of a total vote of 1.201,206 voted for NoLicense. No-License was adopted in tl areas. Legal quibblers may delay, but they cannot prevent the final vietory of the Prohibition forces.

EUROPE. In Europe. the jmsition is very on cou raging. It is to the honour of Iceland that she loads tho way in the European Prohibition van. Tho Liquor Traffic was prohibited there in 1912. The Prime Minister (Mr John Magnason) stat* d some little time ago: "Prohibition In Ireland is a groat success, as it Is supported by a great majority of people, nnd will not be repealed.” It has been bullied by Spain, which threatens to refuse, or at any rate penalise, the large Importation of fish into Spain if Ireland will not permit Spanish Intoxicating liquors to go into Iceland. Ireland, though hard beset, still holds out. Finland’s Prohibition law. passed in 1907. went into effect in 1919. The Hon. S. Alkio, Social Minister, reports a movement on foot to oppose Prohibition, but states: "It will not succeed in repealing the law. The benefits of Prohibition are too great." Bulgaria has adopted Loral Option by National Referendum Norway, by a majority of 183 419 doclared in favour of prohibiting all spirits and strong wines. In Sweden, in 29b0 parishes, the sale of spirits has ben prohibited, and there is a good prospect of Sweden voting dry by popular vote in 1923. In Poland the people have the right to prohibit all alcoholic liquors containing more than 2.70 per rent, alcohol. Holland has passed a Local Option Hill. Denmark, Esthonia, Germany, and Switzerland are all in the throes of campaigns to achieve the same end. and even the strongholds of alcohol France. Italy, Spain, Austria, and Ibdglum are the scene of unremitting attacks on alcohol's domination.

CANADA. In Canada, New Brunswick voted "bone dry” in October last by over 25.000 majority. This leaves only Quebec and British Columbia provinces on the East and Wcvst Coasts respectively, as “wet," and in each case the traffic is under Government Control there. Needless to add, perhaps, that this control has not abolished drunkenness nor illicit trading. There is a strong demand now for Dominion-wide Prohibition under Federal laws in Canada, so as to get rid of some of the anomalies that exist owing to each province having separately voted itself "bone dry.” In the meantime over 1,000,000 square miles and 5.000,000 people are now under Prohibition in Canada.

AMERICA. Among the many statements made about the failure of Prohibition was one by Mr James Fell, who said: “Prohibition was carried in the United States on the crest of the war wave.'* Yet he mast have known that before National Prohibition tr* came operative in the U S A. thirty States had adopted State W'ide prohibitory laws. More than one-third of the population of the U.B.A. has been living under Prohibition more than 20 years. When National Prohibition became a reality it directly affected only one-third of ihe population, and less than 10 per cent, of the area. Throughout the States all the signs point to the firmer settling of the Prohibition laws. An attempt made to legalise beer for “nt' dicinal” purple** failed most miserably, although not before—by political Jugglery —regulations authorising the manufacture of beer for "medicine” had b* en Issued. The Willis-Campbell AntiMedical Beer Hill, however, passed Congress by 250 for to 93 against, and passed Senate tNvice. first by 39 to 20, and then by 56 to 22, being signed by President Harding on November 23rd. This automatically squashed the "medicinal” beer regulations, and is considered as a smashing, if not final Mow. to wet hopes of modification of the Volstead law.

An attempt was made in July to »*nginoer a spectacular par <lc to protest against the Volstead law, but after the most strenuoas advertising and canvassing. and after announcing that over 260.000 had signed pledges to march, and that 1.000,000 would march, only 14.922 turned out. and the organiser admitted that 80 out of every 100 of these U’ere middle aged aliens. Enforcement is paying for its- If. Fines and goods seized are, for the past year, nearly ten times the Government appropriation for cast of enforcement. The people who made home brew and defied the law for a Joke, are getting of that. The forces that count are recognising that one cannot permit one law to be deft d or ridiculed by

even a minority of the communit) without jeopardising tho whole of tin laws. An«l thas the entire temper of the community is crystalising in favoui of obedience by all to tho Prohibition law.

Our newspapers still print matters from correspondence and news agencies which tell of Prohibition failure, or great public resentment, and so on comments which have been proved false time and again. Hut the voting, and the voice of those who have most right to be heard, indicate that there Is no failure, but immense success to record, and that the resentment is eon fined to a noisy minority that fails entirely to get any workable public sup port. In South Africa vigorous propaganda is being carried on. with hopeful results, and there is a popular demand for Local Option as a first step toward Total Prohibition. In Palestine the closing of all the liquor bars in .1- rusalem was so serviceable that the order is to be extended to the whole country.

The position in Aastrnlia will be watched with interest. Th* re will be contests this yenr, it is expected, that may bring gladness to as. It is true that in New South Wales there is Government antagonism to the movement. and any votes taken will mast likely be taken under adverse conditions. Nevertheless, throughout all Australasia, including Tasmania, there is every sign of vigorous and progressive movement in the direction of Prohibition. Under the mandate of the* Peace Treaty, it is satisfactory to know* that the Commonwealth of Australia and the- Dominion of New Zealand have prohibited the liquor traffic in Papua. Samoa, ard some other islands of the Pacific.

In her last year's Annual Report, our Treasurer said: "The donations received for the World's Missionary Fund this year are a record, though on'y 16 out of 82 Unions contributed, which shows that many members still lack interest In the wider work of the Union in other countries, probably due to lack of knowledge .«s to what Is being done by our organisation round the world.” For a greater spread of information. ami that w-e may know our work, let as take a cursory glance at the work in progress in far off lands. Tho W.C.T.U. was founded in Ame rica by Frances Willard in 1883. There are now 16 State Unions in America, each publishing their own papers monthly Resides the States, there are branches in England, Scotland. Ireland, Australia. Canada. Japan, Burma, India. South Africa, France. Norway, Sweden. Newfoundland. Nigeria. China. Iceland, Egypt, and other places. There ar* nine World’s Organisers, including Mrs Lee-Cow|e. Six of these* workers are recording wondrous achievements

in their great and needy field:*. There is Quit*' an army of leading women in the rank* who are authois. preacher*, soupsters, and lecturers. Among the letter is Or. Mary Armor. U-.D., who. Mince the United States went ‘'dry.” has visited every principal city, some of th»m many times, has been from coast to roast again and again, and in her report says: “America Is like a new world. It is glorious, and will be better further on as we convince the evildoers that they can never bring the saloons back to the U.B.A " Dr. Armor has Just accepted our in vitation to come over and help its in our next campaign, and is as keen to plunge into the fight as we are eager to welcome her.

With her wide knowledge of the con dition of the things in America, she will be able to speak with authority and tell as w'ith assurance that Prohibition has prohibited far better than regulation ever regulated. Miss Agnes Slack, our World’s Hon S< oretary. has Just finished a tour of France. Switzerland, and Belgium, and tells a thrilling story of Unions reorganised, new branches formed, and public opinion created by long talks with lenders of society, the distribution of literature, and addresses by pulpit and on plafform. T asked her to visit Nyw Zea land, hut she could not come this year. I hope, when she does come in the n* ar future, it will be to see a “dry Dominion. In South Africa the Unions have succeeded in getting Scientific Tcmp< ranee taught in the State schools. Miss Agnes Gordon, in her annual adduces. tells us that the six World's W.C.T.U. Organisers are recording mighty achievements in their great and needy fields. M'ss St rout has under her supervision a trio of countries —Malaysia, Burma, and Ceylon. Miss Campbell holds the Temperance fort in India, supported by the Scottish White Ribboners. Miss Tinling. financad by American Unions, is doing valuable scientific work in the schools in Central China. Miss Ren Yim M**i, a native Chinese, steadily wins to our cause hundreds of her own people Miss Norvllie and Miss Ayres work in South America. Miss Mack in Hurma. Mrs Gauntlet and Moriza San in Japan, and Miss Fiances Willard Wang in China. Between them they are enlisting thousands of students and young p* ople. who will right royally aid in bringing world Prohibition. More money is needed to put other organisers In the field, and every penny we con tribute helps to pash on an anti alcohol propaganda constructive in character and destined to be persuasive in results. For a half-century the W.C. T.U. has been carrying on an educational work throueh the department of Peace and International Arbitration, making Sentiment for Peace among the Nations. “Ret us pray for World Peace.’* pleaded Madam Kaji Yajima. ex-President of the W.C.T.U. in Japan At 89 years of age she has crossed an ocean and a continent to present a

petition to the United States praying that the Confer* nee for the Reflation of Armaments to be held in Washington will come to be the means of World Peace. The petition was signed by 10,224 women of Japan, the signatures having be* n se<*ured in two weeks 1 . Madam Yajima, accompanied by Miss Moriza, arrived at Seattle, and were given a reception by the Union. They stopped en route to Minneapolis, where they were the guests at a luncheon attended by more than 500 men and w*omen. the Governor and US A. Ambassador being among the speakers. She also had a Community reception, participated in by 00 of the city’s women’s organisations. President Harding, in arc‘pting the petition on Novemlier 7th, said: “I am so happy to have you here, and feel for you a great reverence. I think it is wonderful that during so long a life you have retained your Interest in the affairs of the world, and that >ou still radiate the spirit of youth. You are a dear, sweet old lady.” Before leaving the World’s news of our work, I want to call your attention to th* December number of the “Union Signal.” which reports that th** National Council of Women, composed of over thirty of the leading women’s organisations of the United States, and representing 11.000,000 American women, passed th* following significant resolution at its recent biennial Convention in Philadelphia, November 10-16:-

"We endorse most earnestly the com plete prohibition of the alcoholic liquor traffic, and second every effort thereto of ihe Women’s Christian Temperance Union.” The meeting of the Council was on** of th* big events of the year, and among the speakers and delegates were many of the nation’s distinguished women. It is indeed a great inspire tion to know that Prohibition has the support and co-operation of so strong an organisation as the National Council. th* personnel of which is made lip of women who specialise in Citizenship, Child Welfare. Education, Equal Moral Standards, Legal Status of Women and Children, and Peace end Disarmament. The General Federation of Women’s Clubs, w hich m< t in Chicago in June of same year, without one dissenting voice declared themselves as opposed to the liquor traffic. Still another gathering of women met in th** same y<ar in Cleveland. Ohio, the National League of Women Voters. It was their second annual Convention. Resolutions were unanimously adopted ! ,i favour, of the strengthening of the Prohibition Act and the strict enforcement of dry laws. It is good to rend of women’s organisations who never before Identified them selves with Temperance now declaring in favour of Prohibition. From this brief survey one will gather enough to understand that everywhere there are signs of a world resolution in the habits of the people as far as intoxicants are concerned* Rut before speaking of the work iu our own kind, i want briefly to note the gaping

breaches made in the world’s organisation by the passing to high* r service of some of our noted leaders since our Convention of 1921. OBITUARY. In September of last year our worldwide organisation suffered serious be. rcavenj* nt in the passing away of our distinguished and loved President, Countess of Carlisle. Her death removes one of the noblest and undoubtedly one of the most r* markable of women. From the time of taking the Temperance pledge to her death, her life was consecrated to the service of the people. She recognised that in the destruction of the liquor traffic lay the foundation of all true progress. Her Presidency was marked by her states manlike leadership and marvellous grasp of the details of a problem, as well as its widest ramifications. The host of White Ribboners all round the world are sadly bereaved in her passing. for no truer or more unselfish comrade in a great fight ever existed than Rosalind, Countess of Carlisle. In London, last month, just six months before the translation of our World’s President, in the midst of active service, a great soul passed onward to that life beyond— Henry Somerset. For eight years President of the World’s W.C.T.U., and for many years lead* r ot the Rritish Women’s Temperance Association, the impress of Lady Henry’s noble, unselfish life and eloquent words are deeply graven on countless hearts. At her funeral service, floral tributes, coming from the highest to the lowliest in her beloved England, evidenced her wide circle of friends. Fragrant blossoms from her girls at Duxhurst Farm Colony were near a cross of beautiful white flowers sent by <Jii**en Alexandra. With other romrad**. we pray, “God grant in His infinite kindness that the good work at Duxhurst may be carried on os her last memorial. In July of same year -Mrs A. R. Atkinson entered into the more abundant life: The loss to our Union thro igh her d*ath can hardly be overstated. From the time of its inception she was associated with it in some capacity, as Organiser. Secretary, President, and Vice-President. With her clear vision, her wisr counsel, her ungrudging service. l.er rift of speech and earnest, appealing eloquence, and her power in prayer, she was a constant help and inspiration, and accomplished much in the int * rest of all that is highest and best in the life* of the Dominion. Though her voice is now silent, her influence still lives, she, with other pioneers who are now* with God. will be watching the dawn of victory from the other side. SCIENTIFIC TEMPERANCE IV ST RUCTION. We thought the agitation of a fjttar ter of a century had ended wh**n th Educational Authorities issued a R< port on "Alcohol and the Human Body’’

to ho used a* a t» xt hook for teachers, and at last Convention gratefully congratulated the Hon. C. J. Parr for his part in securing this great advance in the teaching of our young people. Now we And the instruction is not so widespread as it ought to he, so we must make it our duty to see that our future citizens are instructed concerning the nature of Alcohol, the manifold mischiefs of Alcoholism, and its menace to the moral life of the community. We must unremittingly urge that this instruction be repularlv piven in our State schools.

It is the riphtful heritnpe of the child to be instructed that alcohol and nicotine are poisons to he feared and frupht It is the riphtful heritape of the child to he morally safepuarded and spiritually trained, and this is the work we w’omen mast do. We mast continue to teach the fundamental truths of temperance in our own homes. We must continue to rally them a.s members of our Hands of Hope and Loyal Temperance Legion. We mast everywhere teach the value of total abstinence. for undoubtedly total abstinence is the bedrock of Prohibition. Wf have always apitated for the teachinp of sex hypiene by qualified persons to our children, for the establishment of free clinics for patients sufTerinp from venereal diseases, and for raising the ape of consent, and thouph we have worked year by year to secure these reforms, they have been painfully slow in co.ninp. The social workers of the Salvation Army, the Society for the Protection of Women and Children, have all apreed that becaase alcohol inflames passion it is the greatest caase of immorality. Dr. W. R. Swan. Secretary of the Kansas State Roard of Health, recently said that a decrease in the consumption of intoxicants lessens venereal diseases. Every woman desires at atmost any expense to rid her city of every apency for the promotion of vice. We will have taken a lonp step toward the desired end when we have secured the abolition of the liquor traffic. From the beginning of our organisations it has not only been interested in teachinp total abstinence to children, but also in their health, moral and spiritual welfare. That there is a definite relation between drink and cruelty to children hardly needs proof. It is interestinp to know that in the opinion of Sir Henry Stile man. chief warder of Hr. Rarnardo’s Homes, "if Enpland w’ent dry for 25 years, thev could close the now’ ever open doors, and that if tb*> country would pive him half a day’s drink bill he would feed, clothf. maintain, and place out in life all the 7°oo children In his charPe. From a national standpoint, would not the most topical and sensible way of saving the children he the euttinp out of the cause of all this miserv and suffering by the eliminaMon of the liquor traffic? Tin latest statistics from the Police Department's Annual Report shows the 4

in 1920, 8979 persons were charped with drunkenness (8740 males and 509 females). An increase of 763 in the number of prosecutions durinp the year as compared with the previous yeAr. Resides these convictions per annum there are many more cases of intoxication that do not pet into the court. As lonp as the open bar exists drunkenness will take a toll every year of somebodys* boys, and brinp with it the usual addition of crime and poverty. How much could bo said about the Prink Rill for the same year beinp over {7.500.000, and this when there is so much need of ntrenchmont. Wh\ need I speak of the evils so well known to us? We conclude by speakinp of the opportunity that is before its. In a few months we shall be facinp another poll. Recause hss than 6 per cent, voted in favour of State Purchase, w’e concluded that it would be eliminat'd from the ballot paper, and we would have a straipht cut issue of Prohibition versus Continuance. Now it is said we mast go to the poll npain with the State l*urchase issue sandwiched between the Wet and Dry. It seems as if the powers of evil are determined to handicap as in some way or other, but I want you to look back for a moment and see what has i>een won. In this lonp continued fipht for the abolition of the liquor traffic, we bepan by shorteninp the hours of sale to 10 o’clock. Then by the reduction vote many licensed houses wire cloned altogether. Next came the abolition of barmaids. When f he law compelled other business plan's to close at six o’clock, we asked, "Why should not the liceased bars close at the same hour?” This desirable reform, with others, such <is makinp it a punishable offence to sell liquor to children, or allowinp them in the bar was carried into effect. Yet thouph all these thinps were victories. they fajled to repulate the traffic. Now look forw’ard and see how much there Is to win. One has only to read of all the benefits accruing from the abolition of the traffic to realise It. Listen to this one fact: —Durinp the past four years there has not been a sinple eonvicition for prostitution in the New Zealand No License areas, havinp separate courts; surely that result a lon* is worth Prohibition. Read the story of what Prohibition has done «n one sinple State, that of Kansas. In proportion to population. she has fewer renters, and more home owners than any other State. Ev< ry fifth family in the State owns a motor ear. Her public schools are of the very best, and are the pride of the people. When several years apo a heatened financial clash mini *1 many of the stronpest hanks of the States, it was the bankers of Prohibition Kan ;; that w’ired “Drr.w on us for 50 000.000 dollars, and as much more if necessary to save the crash." and the financial market of the country strmrel d to its feet, stood erect, and made its bow of profound pratitude to Proh’bition Kansas. New Zealand White Ribboners. are such results as these worth winninp?

You answer—Yes. Then if you want to win you mast pray as if you had no hope on earth, and work for it as if you expected no help from Heaven. This is the SPIRIT we must put into our work this year, and l>epin in this Convention, this very week. We mast pray for success, exercise our faith for suecess, po to sleep dreaminp of it, and wake up planning for it—Live success, act success. Remember our slogan, ‘‘New Zealand Pry in 19??." And continually create success. This can be done through Faith in the Captain of our Salvation. ‘‘Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesas it is He, Sabaoth is His name, From end to end the same. And He must win the battle.”