DRUIDISM.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 2375, 5 January 1922, Page 3

DRUIDISM.

' .Children pf Druids in Foxton were entertained at a Christmas Tree Treat in All Saints’ schoolroom on Friday, 23rd December, at 8 p.m. <:\The. gathering, which was a distinct success, was held under the auspi-A-ces of the Lodge,,the big feature being a .Christmas -tree of generous dimensions, laden with the best of ' toys, and none of the little ones went away disappointed. In declaring the treat open, the Arch-Druid (P.A. Bro. Chaffey) extended a .Wellcome to all, more particularly those brethren who have not attended their. Lodge meetings regularly. He .said that the treat was to inculcate the principles of true Druidismon the rising generation, and to bring ' the ladies,, children and brethren together . socially. As - it was the branch’s initial effort, he and his colleagues thought fit to solely confine endeavours to Druids’ children, and seeing that there were as many as one hundred-and fifty little ones present, he expressed regret for withholding the Lodge’s invitation to Flanagan) to come officiate as “Father Christmas,” arid also to take the " opportunity of enlightening the ,lladies and brethren on Druidic matters. He intimated that next year’s efforts would be undertaken to cope with not only Druidic children, but also other children. He also briefly ■touched upon the possibilities of having in the New Year several ladies’ nights, Druidic -assembly dances, and other social functions. During his term of office every endeavour would he made to bring together every one concerned in the Druids’ movement. The eo-operati-on of the ladies and brethren he . suitably acknowledged, and speci- ' ally referred to the assistance rendered by Mesdames Henskie, Hinds, Smith and Misses Pullen. He reminded the children that the Christmas Tree had been planted in 1908, and had never borne fruit until that night, and as there was no question concerning the Christmas Tree bearing an abnormal crop, lie wished them every luck when stripping it of its treasures. He washed the children to follow* in the footsteps of their fathers, who are not only good Druids, but also good citizens. He * concluded by wishing all a very 'Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Songs and recitations were rendered by both the brethren and members of the infant brigade, to the amusement of all. Bro. Roore Rangihenea officiated as “Dad Christmas,” and in coming down the chimney the soot absolutely changed the colour of his face from “snow' white” to that of “dark brown.” He carried out his arduous task to the delight and satisfaction of the little lones. I All present were afterwards entertained at supper, which was lurch appreciated. Baskets were liberally' supplied by the ladies, - and acknowledged by. the Lodge s. 'The evening was brought to a close by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”