"BELLA MARY" SPEAKS.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 21 September 1916, Page 2

"BELLA MARY" SPEAKS.

TO THE EDITOR Sir, —A correspondent asks if " Belta Mary " meant to infer that a lot of old women were already on the Town Board (" Belta " was a misprint, my name is Bella Mary), and I did not intend any disrespect or discourtesy to the sitting members, or anyone else. The suggestion that a few ladies should nominate some of their number as candidates for a fseat oh the Town Board, was made in all earnestness, hoping that it would unearth someone with force of character and individuality enough to face the ordeal, and take their seats if elected to the honourable position. Bella, Mary knows there are many • capable women in Helensville, but perhaps they-^-like herself—are all too deeply engaged in their domestic duties to spare the time for anything else. There are many matters considered by the Board which intimately concern the women. For instance, the question of extending the hours of billiard saloons from 10 to 11 p.m., a measure which, if granted, would have kept many husbands out till mid-night, and maybe many sons also—while the wives and mothers could keep their lonely night watches as best they may, waiting for the Lords of Creation to come home, when they could go nowhere else. The men say the billiard room affords them just that relaxation they so much need after their days works is done. Well, what about the wife whose work is never done? Could she not be ready to go out when hubby comes homes from work, and just say: "Excuse me, Joe dear, there, is something hot in the oven for your tea. I am sorry, but I have an important engagement at the billiard saloon. I have taken what little money there was in the purse saved up to pay.-the grocer just in case I may require it. I shall be home early, but do not wait up, dear— sometimes one meets friends and cannot get right away when they would wish. Ta-ta, dear."—l am, etc. Bella Mary B.