WOMEN'S WORK.

Patea Mail, Volume VIII, Issue 1011, 19 March 1883, Page 2

WOMEN'S WORK.

Sydenham is a borough of some 8000 inhabitants adjoining Christchurch, and on account of the absence of public houses, has become generally known throughout the Colony as the “ model borough.” The u trade”, has at last secured a footing within the hitherto impregnable boundaries, and a probable further extension has given rise to a carious opposition. The facts shortly, are that at the last meeting of the Licensing Committee a license was promised for a house to be erected in a certain street, curiously enough by an undertaker. After the report of the licensing meeting appeared in print there was considerable indignation, and a public meeting was called to condemn the Licensing Committee. What makes the affair worthy of notice, is that the leading part in the proceedings was taken hy women. And they argued their objections with such force and eloquence that - a good deal of sympathy has been created on their behalf, and it is not unlikely that the Committee will have to recant. After all, women and children are the principal sufferers from the excessive drinking customs of the day, and it is but right that their voice should be heard in pro-

;teft.when the hitherto peaceful and .well to-do hearth is threatened with invasion. JNji may yet see the gentler sox placed dri’.an equal footing with men as regards MHe election of licensing committees.; Arid their influence would go a long Way towards making us a sober nation', ? rr