DR. BARNARDO'S HOMES.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 3200, 28 May 1909, Page 5

DR. BARNARDO'S HOMES.

A fairly large audience attended the lecture given' in the Town Hall, last evening, by the Rev. W; J. Mayers, senior deputation secretary in connection with Dr. Barnardo's Homes. The chair was taken by His Worship the Mayor (Mr'P. L. Hollings). In introducing the Rev. Mayers to the audience Mr Hollings stated that he felt it a great privilege to have the opportunity of introducing to a Masterton audience such a worthy representative ot a I'oble work as the Rev. Mr Mayers. There were many notable institutions in England, but none of them , called for more w'lole-hearted admiration and appreciation than Dr. Barnardo's Homes, for they were established for the uplifting and protection of suffering and neglected children. And what could strike a responsive chord more quickly on the heart strings of the average Britisher than an appeal on behalf of destitute children. He trusted the appeal in Masterton for funds on behalf ot such a patriotic institution would be both spontaneous and liberal. The Rev. Mayers, in the cour?e of his remarks, gave an exceedingly interesting history of the "Rise and Progress of Dr. Barnardo's Woaderful Child Rescue Work,' the lecture being illustrated by a number of very fine pictures. He made reference to the numerous homes established in various parts of England, and to the broad principles upon which the rescue' work was carried out. He also showed a number of photographs of rescued children, as well as one of the late Dr. Barnardo. •In conclusion the speaker explained that the object of his visit to New Zealand was to funds for the erection of another hospital (in which the Homes were badly in, need of), to be known as the "Australasian Hospital." He had so far succeeded in collecting half the required amount —3ome £IO,OO0 —and he was hopeful that the full airount would be forthcoming before he returned Home.

During the evening a quartette of the boys who are accompanying Mr Mayers gave evidence of their exceptional musical ability, by giving selections on hand-bells, mandolines; sleigh bells, and other instruments. and "The Song of tne Merry Chinamen" in costume. It is to be hoped that the Town Hall will be packed to overflowing this evening, when the Rev. Mr Mayers will give his concluding address.