News of the Unions.

White Ribbon, Volume 30, Issue 347, 18 June 1924, Page 10

News of the Unions.

PLEASE NOTE! 1. Every Union should report. 2. Reports must be short. 3. Must be in by Bth of month. 4. Pon t report what you are going to do. 5. Don’t send newspaper reports of your meetings. OXFORD. May 14. President in the chair. A motion of sympathy was passed with one member who had suffered bereavement, and one who is in ill-health. A letter from the Y Branch, with a cheque enclosed as a donation towards the Piano Fund, was very much appreciated. and a very hearty vote of thanks was passed to the Y members. A report of the Executive meeting, held in Christchurch, was also received and discussed Mrs Tritt ga* f e a brief report on Convention, held in New' Plymouth, for which she was thanked. KAIAPOI. May 28. Mrs W. B. Scott (VicePresident) in the chair. Good attendance. Mrs Heald elected Treasurer. A letter was read from Mrs Peryman drawing attention to an article in the “White Ribbon’ re getting new subscribers to that paper. The following resolutions were submitted and carried unanimously: First: “That the Kaiapoi Branch of the Women’s Christ ion Temperance I’nion adopt the new set Rules submitted, with alterations Migested by Mrs Peryman.” Second: ‘"That the Kaiapoi Branch of the Women’s Christian Temperance Fnion be incorporated under the ‘lncorporated Societies* Act, 1908.’ ” Mrs J. MeI’omhs gave an interesting address on the Government report on alcohol. She stressed the disastrous effect on the child through the mother, and strongly ndvis d nursing mothers to refrain from t king alcohol in any form. Mrs McCombs answered several questions, and was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. Result of Jumble Sale in aid of our New' Building Fund, £2l 18s. OHRISTCHtmCH. May 14. Mrs Taylor presided over a good attendance. A circular letter was read from the R*v. Braddock re Bible reading in schools and the great necessity thore was to see that ministers attended the schools for the halfhour that had been granted. Halfyearly reports were received and rend from the Good 'Citizenship. Backbloeks and Philanthropic Work Departments, all showing good and progressive work had been done. The Matron of the Children’s Fresh Air Home wrote thanking the Union for parcels of

clothing received. Three members were appointed to visit the Home during the month. One new member was initiated.

May 28. Mrs Taylor presided. Correspondence read re the “White Ribbon” drive for June, July, and Auf, r u. t. It was decided to hold White Ribbon Day on June 11th, and discuss the matter more fully. Mrs Bendeley wrote thanking the Secretary for h« r letter, saying, too how well she remembered the time spent in the Christchurch Union, and looked back on it with great pleasure and profit. Miss Johnson report ed as collecting £.3 towards the Children’s Fresh Air Home, which was given Mrs Napier to purchase wool and material for new garments. Mrs Taylor reported briefly on the N.Z. Alliance Annual Conference, which she had attended as a representative of the New Zealand W.C.T.U Decided to hold 1 ’eace IXay on Thursday, June 19th, and to ask the Rev. J. l’attersen to give an address on “Peace.” Mrs Richards and Mrs D. McKee to be asked *o lead the devotional exercises and prayers until .3.15. Mrs Suckling was appointed Custodian of Records. I*ONHONRY. June 5. 15 present. Mrs C. H. Taylor presided. Annual pay up social. A good programme. Mrs Ben fell presided over the second part of the meeting. Letters from our dear President, Mrs LeeCowie, who is at present in England, were read and much enjoyed. A letter from Mrs Peryman re the "White Ribbon’ drive, to enable us to get new subscribers for this splendid paper. We are very anxious that all our members should get it, and so le. more about our grand Union. Mrs Andrews, our Cradle Roll Superintendent. reported six new babies, making on the roll, although only seven months since we started. The programme included solos by Mrs Uattison, Mrs Kasper. Mis Turley recitation by Miss Hayr and Miss Barry. Afternoon i' a was served. Two new members WELLINGTON SOUTH. June 5. Mrs Johnson Wright presided over a largely attended meeiing. Mrs (Commissioner) Hoggard gave a very fine address on the women of Korea. The different customs of the people were descril>ed religious, civil, and moral. The climate and the Siberian winds were mentioned, and dresses were shown which are used for the different seasons. The icebound rivers on which the carts go over, the slating. the materials of which the huts were made, and the hard time the women had* were described very graphically. Mrs Hoggard had quite a collection of articles with her. made by th° children, such as nurses, babies’ boots, beautifully embroidered mats, and various other articles for Christmas gifts. Mrs Hoggard delighted all by appearing in a complete outfit worn by the Korean women.

PALMERSTON NORTH. June b. Fair attendance. VVer favoured with a surprise visit from Mr I’eryman, who spoke a few helpfi and encouraging words to mem ben which were much appreciated. Mr Ferguson appointed to act as Record ing Secretary in the absence of Mr Hodder. A committee of five ladies with Mrs Fergurson as convenor, form cd to make arrangements for purchas of banner. Mrs Cobb gave report o peace prayer meeting held the tliir Monday in May. DUNEDIN SOUTH. May 8. A prayer meeting for th< peace of tlie world. May 15. A great field day in honour of the Union having won the two senior membership banners, one for the largest actual increase, and the other for the largest percentage increase—in this case four hundred per cent. Mrs Hiett, District I R esident handed the banners to the President, Mrs Gilmour, and took the opportunity of explaining details as to the i reposed WXJ.T.U. tea a:ul rest rooms at the forthcoming Exhibition, those present signifying their willingness to assist. Mrs Williams gave her impressions of the New Plymouth Convention, dwelling upon the great Inspiration received, and stating that she now understood Union work as never b fore Miss M. S. Powell followed with a report of the recent Alliance Convention in Wellington. where close on a hundred delegates deputationised the Premier, and stating that the spiritual side of our movement ind the necessity for prayer were constantly stressed. Refreshments were provided by Mrs H. L. Richards and other friends, and three new members received, and one by transfer. GREYTOWN. May 27. Mrs Morison presided over fair attendance of members and friends. (Vrrespondence received from Mrs I cry man and N.Z. Alliance. Mrs Me Kcniie gave report of Convt r.tion. stressing need for more thought on re ligious side of Union, duties of Secretaries and Treasurers, and speaking of work done in many departments of Union throughout New Zealand. The President congrntu'ated Greytown on School Committee elected Two new members were gained, and one “White Ribbon” subscriber. NEW PLYMOUTH. May 28. 29 ladies present. Discussion re continuing rest room. Mrs Wilkie reported that over 200 women and children had used the room during the month. Decided to continue the room for a time. Decided to hold White Ribbon Day on Juno 16th. and to have helpful articles read from “White Ribbon.” also White Ribbon report from District Convention read by Mrs X. Jones. Mrs Scott resigned her position as Corresponding Secretary: Mrs Craig appointed. Vote of thanks

to Mrs Scott for past work. Delegates wore appointed for District Convention. Letter of thanks from Mrs Bendeley for £lO to New Zealand funds from Convention. STRATFORD. May 23. Present, 16. Letter read from Mrs X. Jones re Convention at V'anganui, 10th to 11th June. Mrs MacCallum appointed delegate. Letter was read from Mrs Peryman re “White Ribbon” campaign. Permission was granted for the “White Ribbon” to be placed on Ihiblio Library table. Mrs Houston appointed social convenor. HAWERA. April 24. Mrs Tait presided over a small meeting. Paper read on Bible in Schools. Discussion. Arrangements made to provide tea for Area Council. May 19. Held “Peace Day” meeting. Were joined by Normanby Pnion. Address by Rev. Oxbrow. May 29. (rood meeting. President presided. Discussion on article on “White Ribbon.” Secretary reported writing to Mr Corrigan, M.P., re Bible in Schools Bill. Reply read. Paper on “Duties of Peace Time” read bv .Mrs Bone. Arrangements made for the District Convention to be held in Wanganui early next month. NEW BRIGHTON. May 16. Mothers’ Day, Mrs Hall presiding over good attendance of hicmbers. Mrs F. Sprosen’s solo was much appreciated, and Mrs F. H. Good, Cradle Roll Superintendent, was hostess for the afternoon. Matron Henshaw, of Karitane Hospital, was the speaker, and her talk on “Babies” was most instructive, and should prove of great help to the mothers. May 19. In accordance with resolution passed at Convention, this was held as “Peace Day.” There was a good attendance, and Mrs W. J. Williams dealt excellently with her subject, “World Peace.” AUCKLAND. April 8. Mrs Cook presided. The day was very wet. but a very good number attended. An appeal was received for funds for the Mission for the Blind in heathen lands; the matter was left open for members to respond individually. Decided to hold our meet iugs once a month for at least the P*esont. The Central Mission Council have kindly allowed us to hold our meetings in their hall, the old home of our Union Mesdames Cook and 'Fulljames gave most interesting accounts of the Dominion Convention, and were* heartily thanked. They were charmed with the beauties of New Plymouth, nnd also the hospitality of the citizens. One new member was initiated. The day of our meeting has been changed from Wednesday to Tuesday.

TURAKINA. May 15. At the residence of Mrs I'erry. Nine members and a visitor present. Several new names were reported for the Cradle Roll. Miss Benheld save a very interesting address on work of the Y.W.C.A. in New Zealand. I>ceided to send delegates to the Dis triet Convention to be held in Wanganui next month. Mrs Berry and her daughter very kindiy dispensed afternoon tea. tauranga. May. I'resident in chair. Animated discussion on several points of interest, especially on a contemplated effort on behalf of tin* boys and girls. Sent to Mrs Neal for chart showing injurious effects of alcohol on human body. TE KLTTI. April 22. Mrs Edgar presided. Vote of thanks passed to Mr Halford for his kindness to the ladies on the street stnii. The stall yielded lIS Ts M for the Rest Room rent. Collection, 6s. Mrs Edgar and Airs Elliott waited on Mr Rolleston. member, re Bible Reading in Schools. He promised to consider the matter. OTAUTAU. May 20. Special meeting to receive reports of Convention from Mrs Lilicrap and Mrs Young, both of the Invercargill Union. Most interesting and inspiring addresses were given, and the kindness of these ladies in visiting our Branch was greatly appreciated. Two new members joined our ranks. I'he Band of Hope started last month for the winter session, when there was a large and enthusiastic meeting of young people. Rev. Clements gave n fine temperance address, and there was a good musical programme. INVERCARGILL CENTRAL. May 8. Meeting opened with good r.t tendance. Final arrangements made re rest tent and tea rooms to be held <lming Carnival Week. Mrs Lillierap and Mrs McKenzie report* I gathering money for Prisoners' Aid Society, .tumble Sale to be held on 9th May. Meeting closed with prayer. OI’OTIKI. May 8. Mrs Thompson presided. Good number present. Miss Hood (Christchurch) gave a very interesting address. Mrs Thompson read a portion of Mrs Don’s presidential address given at the recent Convention. Band of Hope meetings for the winter months arranged for. Afternoon tea was provided by Mrs Burton. RANOIORA. May 30. 38 ladies present. Mrs Th waites in the ehnir. One new member Initiated. The speaker for the afternoon was Mrs Williams of Sumner.

who spoke on the harmful effects of alcohol on the human body. Mrs Blair, on behalf of the meeting, warmly thanked Mrs Williams for her address. HASTINGS. May 22. Good attendance. President in the chair. Mrs Banks, from Poxton, welcomed. Report of NZ. Alliance Conference received. Rev. P. Copeland gave helpful address on the work amongst young people. He urged the formation of a Band of Hope or- similar organisation to educate the boys and girls. We who were in the front rank of temperance workers today had most of us received our training in the old Bands of Hope. The W.C.T.IT. had not neglected the training of the young in temperance teaching, hut there was a general lack of It in other quarters, which, if we were working for victory, would have to he remedied, PAPANUI. May. Sixty members present, the Kiccarton members being our guests for that occasion. The decorations were beautiful, bronze and white chrysanthemums and autumn leaves. Mrs R, W. Smith occupied the chair, and welcomed the Riccarton ladies. Mrs McKee gave the address, which was both interesting and instructive. Mrs Barrell (RiccartonU and Mrs James (West Coast) also spoke. Musical items were contributed by Mesdames Chandler, Rowberry, and Miss Harris. Mrs Ryan presided at the organ. A motion of sympathy was passed with Mrs Carr in her illness. Afternoon tea was served by the ladies. EDEN. April 16. Mrs Chappell, senr., presided. A letter was read from Mrs IVryman. thanking th<* Union for congratulations on the excellence of the “White Ribbon." A message was recoifed Aron the Proidont (Min Wilson) from the Blue Mountains in N’.S. Wales, stating she was better in health, and enjoying the rest change. Mrs Ramsey, delegate to Convention, gave a comprehensive and interesting report, supplemented by Mrs Auld, District Secretary, who spoke of the items which were most discussed by the Convention. and which we as a Union mus. also take up. Both ladies were accorded a hearty vote of thanks. May 28. Miss Caley presided, 11 l»eing present. Mrs Scanlon and M’ss Caley were appointed delegates to the Alliance Convention on June 3rd. Mrs Judson gave a very interesting talk on the League of Nations, its objects and work the need of some scheme which would settle all difficulties without war. and its consequent loss of life. Thanks to speaker. A letter from Miss Wil son. stating she hoped to be back in New Zealand soon, was gladly received.

SOUTH INVERCARGILL. May 6. Mrs McGregor in the chair. About 20 members present. Final arrangements were made for helpers in the tea rooms and rest rooms at Winter Carnival, under the supervision of the Southland District Union. Secretary reported send-off social to Mrs Diper (one of our members who is leaving us for the North Island) was a great success. Special votes of thanks were passed to Mrs Hensley for splendid musical programme she had provided, also to Mrs Latham for the dainty supper. Cor. Sec. reported that a book of poems had been sent to Dominion President (Mrs Don), also one to Miss Henderson to be opened on the 10th day of the return voyage. A pologies from elderly members on the sick list. FETONE. June 3. Ix'cided to hold the Provincial Convention in September at Uetone. Six prizes had been procured for prize essay* ai the schools of Petone. The essays were read at the meeting, and were very good. The headmasters to be waited on as to the distribution of the prizes. May 21. A very interesting and profitable afternoon was spent at the home of Mis Ait ken. Twenty-six members and friends were present. The Rev. J. A. Mackenzie gave a most interesting address on the influence of home training in forming the morals, and the general outlook on life of young people. Songs, recitations, and piano solos made a very bright afternoon. Tea was handed round by the hostess. At the conclusion, votes of thnnks were passed for the address and various other items, and also to the hostess. TIMARU. April 29. Good attendance. Welcome extended to two visitors from Pnpanui Union. Hospital and Sailors’ Rest reports very satisfactory. Decid»d that the monthly meeting for May l*e held at Highfleld, and it was left to the ladies of that district to arrang** details. In connection with circular letter re Bible Reading in Schools, it was decided that the Secretary write to the member for the district, thus strengthening the hands of the Ministers’ Association, who were personally waiting on him. Mrs Low was congratulated on being appointed to a seat <>n the High School Board of Governors. and Mesdamos C'ave, Butcher and Minifie to seats on three of the town School Committees. May 19. Prayer meeting for Peace. Though small in numbers, we were big in the knowledge that it was only part of the great meeting of women throughout New Zealand at that time, and that .»•’ie God of Peace was present in very truth.

May 11. Record gathering. I’resldent erpressed her pleasure at being

back anion# members, and was so full of Convention that she inspired the meeting with her own enthusiasm. Hospital report was very encouraging, and the Sailors’ Entertainment Commit tee hail a busy month. A satisfactory though non-committal reply was received from Mr Rolleston, M l*. In connection with Mrs Penman's circular letter it was decided that the whole subject would be discussed at the special meeting to be held on Monday, June ltith. White Ribbon Pay. Mrs Odell gave an interesting and very comprehensive account of her impressions of Convention, and was accorded a hearty vote of thanks. Dainty afternoon tea was served, and at the close of the meeting a new member was initiated. WARKWORTH. May 21*. Not so many members present as we would like to see, and the cause justified. Replies to letters re Bible reading in schools were received from the lYime Minister, the Minister for Internal Affairs, and the Minister for Education, assuring our Union that the queston would receve ther earnest consideration. In April of last year our Unions decided to move in the matter of trying to remedy the unsatisfactory state of our District Hospital in Warlworth. After it was discussed by the Union, it was decided to call a public meeting. As a result, tw’o women were appointed to wait on the Hospital Board to see what could be done. After a considerable amount of writing and waiting. Dr. Valintine, DirectorGeneral of Hospitals, and three members of the Auckland Hospital Board, came to Warkworth and held an en uuiry into hospital affairs. The following morning a public meeting was held in the Town Hall, when Dr. Valintine assured those present that he would see that the district would have a hospital to be proud of. with an efficient staff and a resident doctor in charge, so that the hospital could bo of greatest use to the district. The results were very gratifying and as it is most probable that a local committee will be formed to take an especial interest in hospital affairs, our Union moved that we ask that two women may be appointed on that committee when formed. The question of helping in the campaign for more subscribers to tne "White Ribbon” was talked over. Decided to divide into three parts for canvassing Mrs Rcprecht and Mrs Thorn ley to take one, Mrs Oarran one, and Mrs Hamilton the other. The Secretary then read over the report of Convention, kindly sent to our Union, which was much appreciated.

RAKALA. March 27. Opening meeting, largely attended, presided over by Mrs Boag. Mrs Heycock, missionary for 19 years in Argentine, pave very instructive and interesting address on missionary work in that land. A hearty vote ot

tnanks was accorded the speaker. Solo was sung by Mrs Allen. Mrs Field, our Secretary for over three years, was presented, on her departure, by the members of the Union with a handsome biscuit barrel, in appreciation of the excellent work done by her. Mrs Field feelingly responded. Afternoon tea was served. April 10. President presided over small attendance. Resolved that om M I*, be asked his opinion on Bible in Schools question. Mrs Hopwood appointed Secretary for this year. Af ternoon tea and the Benediction brought a pleasant afternoon to a close. WANGANUI CENTRAL. June 5. Mrs Goody presided. Attendance good. A letter read from Mrs Peryman in reference to the special effort that is being made for the increased circulation of our “White Ribbon" paper. Final arrangements were made for the District Convention. A temperance rally to be held on Wednes day evening in the Methodist Church, Jellicoc Street. Mrs Morrison was elected delegate, along with Mrs Emmett. Mrs Sharp, Upper Aramoho, to convene afternoon tea, Mrs Copeland and Mrs Connibeer to assist, members to bring basket. Mi 1 (M. Murray to address Convention. Mrs I’eryman, our “White Ribbon" Editor, to address both meetings. MOSGIEL. May 20. A very pleasant and wellattended meeting. Mrs Bedford presided, and gave a tnost inspiring address on “Peace,” which was highly appreciated by all. An intercessory meeting for prayer for the peace of the nations was held at the close of the ordinary meeting. u;glewooi>. May 28. Moderate attendance. Mrs J. B. Simpson presided. Mrs Bond re* ported as to the progress ot the Sunday School opened at Kaimino, and showed that 21 pupils were enrolled; she received much assistance from a lady and gentleman in the district, the former with music. Misses Young and Johnston were chosen as delegates to the Wanganui Convention. NGAIRE. meats of work carried on by the W.C. T.U. Miss Lunam sang beautifully several solos, and Miss Gilliver gave two recitations. When these Items were over the Treasurer (Mrs Taylor) was very busy for a while, then after noon tea was served. June 6. Usual monthly meeting held nine members present tone new May 22. Pay-up social afternoon, about 15 present. Mrs Gilliver (Pre sident) spoke of the different depart member), and a visitor from Stratford Mrs Gilliver presided. Some discussion ibout the “Whi'r Ribbon** drive, also about the celebration of White Ribbon Pay.

WELLINGTON CENTRAL. May 21. Meeting well attended. Mrs Joseph gave very interesting reminiscences or' Masterton as far back as is7s, and spoke of the great change No-License had wrought in the town and people. Miss Kirk was appointed Trustee in the place of the late Mrs Port. Resolved to have a window display during July of the amount of goods, etc., that could be bought for the price of a week's “drinks." A vote of sympathy with the family of the late Mrs William Allan was passed. ON EH l INGA. April. Mrs Hunter reported having secured use of Methodist Hall for 1..T.L. meetings; these to be held fortnightly from 3.30 to 4.30. Sunday Schools to bo notified, and a start to Im* made end of April. Mesdames Hunter, Jameson, Fieldsend, and Recket nominated for School Committee. (Re suit of election: Mesdames Hunter, Jameson, and Fieldsend. all W.C.T.U. members, elected). Letter of sympathy to be sent to sick member. The report of Convention was given by our President in an interesting and able manner, for which she was heartily thanked. Afternoon tea. May 8. A social evening held as a “Bring and Buy" for members and friends. Good attendance. President in chair. Instrumental and vocal items, with recitations. w r ere given. A hort address by Mrs Evans (Dominion Rec. Sec.) on “Personal Touch," was much appreciated. Refreshments were handed round, and the gifts sold. Five gentlemen joined as hon. members. Funds benefited by £3. A pleasant time spent, which we hope to repeat at some future date. TAKA PUN A June 5. President in chair. letter read from Mr Massey, in answer to petition re Ribte in Schools. He promised to place the matter before the representatives. The victory at Rotorua of the Nelson system being introduced, was rejoiced over. Letter also rend from our Editor urging us to get more subscribers this year. Mrs Cook, from Auckland, addressed the meeting. She told us of the future plans of the Alliance Convention, viz. a Temperance League, special visiting by members, etc. Above all. the young people must be sought out. We must not rely too much on efficient organisation, but on prayor before God’s throne, for victory in the next campaign. PUKEKOHE. June 4. A most instructive meeting. Mrs Evans, of Wellington, gave us an interesting talk on the resolutions passed at Conference. A hearty vote of thanks to Mrs Evans was carried by reclamation.

June 5. To night we started a Band of Hope. We had a good meeting, and are much encouraged. Rev. Nixon spoke for a few minutes on "Killing.’

.showing how alcoholic liquor kills by inches. A number of the children signed the pledge.

FEATKERSTON. May 1. Meeting held at the residence of Mrs Holdcroft. Fair attendance. The report of Convention was read and discussed. Decided to hold meetings in future on first Thursday. June 5. Meeting held at “Fareham.” the residence of Mrs W. Barton. The letter issuid by Mrs I’eryman in respect to Unions aiming at securing new sub scribers to the “White Ribbon' was read and discussed. As a result, three new subscribers were secured. One new member was received. Decided to present to the primary and secondary schools a copy of “The New Year’s .Message.” Mrs Barton kindly offered to get them suitably framed. CARTERTON. May 14. America tea held at Mrs Tylers, which was much enjoyed by all, and resulted in £2 14s being added to i ion’s funds. One new member. June 4. Mrs Every presided. Mrs Kennerley read a very interesting paper; much discussion followed as to ways and means of obtaining more sub scribers to “White Ribbon." Decided to have it placed in Library and wait-ing-rooms, and each member to try and secure subscribers. Collection in aid of blind and heathen land and Maori Mission work. Hostesses, Mesdames Sk I ley and <\ Jones. DANNEVIRKE. June meeting in Methodist Church. White Ribbon Day. Nine present. Discussion re proposed drive for “White Ribb n" subscribers took place. Not very optimistic, but all willing to do their best. I’resident’s address to Convention was r<ad. Motion of sympathy with Miss Burdett in the passing of her beloved uncle. Rev. A. Grant, was carried in silence. Collection for Maori Fund, 10/-. I GREYMOUTH. March 11. Frances Willard Day. Attendance good. Secretary read a paper on the life of Frances Willard. One member initiated. Afternoon tea served. March ?5. Mrs James presided. Fourteen present. Regrot was expressed by the meeting at the departure of our President, and a vote of thanks to her for her help was recorded in the minutes. Mrs James, in her reply, said it had always been a great pleasure to stand by the Union during her short term of office. Mrs Carr kindly consented to act temporarily as President.

May 13. Mrs Puttie presided, and on behalf of members welcomed Mrs Martin to our Union. Reports read from proxy re Convention, also from Secretary of North Canterbury Executive Council. Votes of thanks passed for reports.

N.E. VALLEY. May 22. Mrs Peart (President) occupied chair, and took for subject of address “World’s Unrest and Value of Prayer for Peace.” Mrs Leech, Secre tary of local branch of League of Nations Union, gave a comprehensive address on the League of Nations and its aim; received a hearty vote of thanks. Letter read from Mrs Don (Dominion President), who is at present en route for America. Motions of sympathy passed with friends on account of death of relatives. A “bring and buy" social arranged for month of August. DUNEDIN. May 22. Cradle Rally. The meet ing was made lively by the pres* nee of a large number of babies and small children. Fourteen mothers appended their signatures to promise to bring up their children in habits of total abstinence and purity. Mrs Hiett, who presided, gave the mothers good advice on the necessity of total abstinence. She also stressed the importance of teaching the children the beauty of peace, and the danger of inculcating a taste for war by giving the children guns, toy soldiers, etc. Miss M. S. Powell gave an address, impressing upon the mothers the fact of the plastic nature of the little minds, with which they have to deal, and the indelible character of impressions receiver! in the first seven years. She instanced the case of the late Lord Shaitsbury, who attributed all the good in his character to an old Methodist nurse who left him in ’ns eighth year. Twelve babies were enrolled on the Cradle Roll, and nine new - members joined up. HENDERSON. May 14. Mrs Platt presided. Decided to offer prize to school children, also to members of Young Citizens’ League, for best essay on the evils of alcohol on the human system, separate prize for boy and girl. Decided to increase our usual donation to Organising Fund. Decider! to bring latest “White Ribbon” to meeting each month and spend a short time on discussing something of interest in it. Pay up social to be held next month (June) in Presbyterian Church, to which we are inviting the Avondale Branch. RYAL BUSH. June 3. Elected the following officers: Pres., Mrs Buxton; Vice-Pros., Mrs Oaitt; Treas. Mrs Fowler; Sec.. Mrs Ctilflllan.

OTAHUHU. June 5. Rev. T. A. Hosking kindly took chair for the meeting, and gave us an address, which was most interesting. Mrs Currie, our President, has sent in her resignation, and with regret we had to accept. Mrs McDonald will fill that position for the rest of the year. HAMILTON. June Messrs Waterhouse and Edinonds gave detaile 1 accounts of the scheme to l>e adopted by the Conference for the effectual working of the different areas. Hands of Hope have l»een formed, which should enthuse and educate the young people to the growing indifference in social evils and to the overcoming of the same, and the purifying of the towns in which they live. Profltahale discussion followed. SFMNER.

June 1. Resolution passed protesting against proposed increase in racing facilities. Members urged to attend public meeting and support ID- I.sitt s Bible in Schools campaign. Address by Rev. Wni, Me Am of very high order, the subject being “The progress or deterioration of spiri.ual and intellectual life in individuals or in races, and the results consequent on both. ’ Members expressed their appreciation of the address. Decided to take up the “White Ribbon” drive. Mrs Heslop sang a beautiful solo.