STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 June 1918, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) [All communications, letters, etc., lett with Mr H. I. Hopktns, bookseller, will receive prompt attention.] (Prom Our Own Correspondent.) Stratford, June 12. For some time past the soldiers returning to Stratford district have been interesting themselves in tlie formation of a branch of the Xexv Zealand Returned Soldiers' Association. Last evening a meeting was called, and as a result of the deliberations, a branch was formed, the following being elected on the committee: —'Messrs C. S- Kelly (chairman), T. J Sheahan (secretary), P Clemow (treasurer), M'Quecn, Enwright, Hampton, Cain, Fougere, Barker, M'Kinley, Wilson, Xeilson, Fletcher, gnd Lieutenant Marchant. In the event of any conference with kindred branches, Messrs Power, Kelly, and Shealian were elected to represent Stratford thereat. To popularise the branch, build up funds, and also keep in touch with members returning, a series of socials are being arranged, details being in the hands of Messrs Sheahan, Clemow, Yetton, Harris, and Neilson. In connection with last week's patriotic work, in which the Mahoe ladies raised the satisfactory total of £33, it may be added that the cushion, presented by Miss Riley, was won by MrA. L. Hooper The guessing competition on a pet laimlb, 831b, presented by MrsG. Hurrell, was won by Mr. Dwver, with a guess of 87Jib. During last year the Ladies' Patriotic Committee received great assistance from the ladies of the neighboring towns, and perhaps this practice will continue tliis year. Certainly the need is as great, if not more so, than last year, so those with a few spare moments on their hands will find any effort on their part that can be turned to cash much appreciated by the Patriotic Committee.

Captain J. B- Hine, M.P., left for Wellington this morning. This probably marks our member's last visit to Stratford for some time, as he now goes to camp. Writing of Captain Hine remins me that Captain Hawkins, in some correspondence in the local paper, denies statements that ho will contest any future seat with Captain Hine. They had had a good tussle at the last election, but he now had no desire to stand in opposition to Captain Hine So far, June has proved very mild, a. succession of fine days being our lot so far. This is in great contrast to May, when one seemed to be in constant partnership with gum-boots, greatcoats, and gamps rhat this is literally true is Iborntf out by the report of our observer, Mr T. Harry Penn, who states that rain fell on 17 days, the heaviest- downpour being on the 21st, when 1-s'in fell, and the total for the month wo 3 8.45 in. The eyes of the world are centred on the great German offensive, but the eyes of the thrifty wife are focussed on the good goods at small prices Deing offered bv Mr. CE. James. His premises are replete with the useful and ornamental. Goldware, silverware, copperware, and crockeryware are to be found on the shelves and in packages Mr. Man is also catered for, and he can smoke the fragrant weed, carry a walk;ng-stick, and in his pocket choice reading matter, all procured at lowest prices from C. E. James.