NUMBER 13.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 14 August 1919, Page 4

NUMBER 13.

Most people consider 13 so unlucky a number that they will not have it on their front-doors, sit 13 at table, or sleep in number 13 when stopping at an hotel. Yet the fateful figures do not always spell bad luck. Witness the recent Crown land ballot in Auckland for sections for returned soldiers. At the 13th drawing No. 13 applicant drew No. 13 section, and it turned out that there were 13 letters in this applicant's name, and 13 in his address. He drew one of the best sections going. By the way, there is in London a Thirteen Club, the members of which are pledged to throw as much cold water on the thirteen superstition as possible. Thus the number of their club-bouse is 13, they meet regularly on the 13th of each month, and dine together. Each of the tables accommodates 13 guests, and every guest makes a point of repeatedly spilling the salt. If, when walking, any member can contrive to pass under a ladder he never fails to do it. There are many queer clubs in London, and the Thirteen Club is certainly among the Queerest of them.