CORRESPONDENCE. THE FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

Globe, Volume VI, Issue 620, 14 June 1876, Page 2

CORRESPONDENCE.

THE FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

To the Editor of the Globe

Sik, —Being a member of one of the largest friendly societies in existence, viz., the A.0.F., I think it my duty to refute the statements contained in your leading article of June 12th.

1. Had the writer of that article been acquainted with the working of friendly societies, and the purposes for which they are constituted, he would have known that “the want of employment” is not one of the emergencies provided for. 2, The mention of Trades Unionism in connection with friendly societies is quite uncalled for; the only union known in “ Forestry” is, “every man for every man, himself included.”

3. I feel convinced, Mr Editor, that whoever has led the writer to suppose that our society is “fostered by outside aid” is equally as ignorant of the working of the “order” as himself under the heading of “Adjuncts.” I beg to inform him that “secret signs,” &c., are known to the initiated only, and not to the outside public. 4. As for the public demonstrations, I beg to inform him that they are inaugurated for the amusement of our wives and children, and it is impossible for the funds to suffer,

■ 5. I thank him for his sympathy, and wish to inform him that we are in a financial and independent position. 6. The writer’s opinion in reference to payment of subscriptions hardly calls for any comment from me. I will inform him that we number 400 members, and our total working expenses do not exceed £SO per annum. 7. lam proud to say that I have held the honourable office of Chief Ranger, to which office there is no salary attached. 8. I beg to inform him that we are taking the Friendly Societies’ Bill into consideration, but fail to appreciate the observations contained in your leader. Trusting, in the interest of friendly societies, you will insert this, I am, &c., A Member of Court Star of Canterbury. Chester street East, June 13th, 1876.

P.S.—I should advise the writer, before condemning the working of friendly societies, to peruse the speech of Sir Stafford Northcote, on the Friendly Societies’ Act, in Manchester, 1875, which I will lend him for perusal on application.