A KHAKI CHRISTMAS

Dominion, Volume 9, Issue 2639, 9 December 1915, Page 6

A KHAKI CHRISTMAS

' TOWN HALL A HOME FOR SOLDIERS. The Mayor (Mr. J. P. Luke) ie determined that none of the soldiers on leave- from camp in Wellington on Christmas Day shall bo-without a home to go to. He anticipates that tliero will be a good number of men on leave that day—-how many ho at present docs not know—and many will most probably be entertained at dinner either at their own homes or at those of friends, but there are Sure to be many, who are without thoso' advantages, and he intends, on behalf of the citizens' of Wellington, to offer the big hall as a joyous sanctuary for all 6uch.

As many of tho men to be entertained are from centres, the Mayor has telegr.Jijhed his intentions to the Mayors of Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin. To Mr. G. Chineon, Mayor of Auckland, ho telegraphed:— ' "Previous to my visit to your City I consulted the Camp Commandant in regard to the entertainment of the soldiers at Christmas time. »I am endeavouring to arrange suitable hospital-' i.ty. that will ho expressive of all centres. Hope you concur and authorise mo to act for you.—Luko, Mayor."

To that communication Mr. Gurison replied: — "Feel sure Patriotic Committee will fall in with your views. About what amount is it likely to involve for Auckland. Meeting committeo next Tuesday." : '

His Worship has replied

"Pending further consultation with Camp Commandant, unablo to ascertain number of men on leave. My wire to you and Mayors of Christchurch, and Dunedin was .to establish general interest and goodwill as regards main centres. I prefer question of finance to remain in abeyance just now. : I recognise you have the camps in your district to deal with.—Luke, Mayor." It is tho intention of the Mayor to visit Trentham to-day to consult with the Camp Commandant with regard to the Christmas arrangements.