CHURCH BAZAAR.

Westport Times, Volume VII, Issue 1098, 15 August 1873, Page 3

CHURCH BAZAAR.

(To the Editor of the Wesiport Times.) Sir, —While cordially agreeing with " Subscriber" that the claims of the District Hospital should constantly be kept before the public, I must take exception to your correspondent's unqualified condemnation of the Ladies' Bazaar as a desirable method of raising money tor charitable purposes. I need not remind your readers that this modern and Tery popular institution has been established under the patron age of Boyalty, and that even in our day the very highest church dignitaries have liberally supported and protected it; but when I recall the fact that the bazaar in itself furnishes an elegant and refined entertainment, at once pleasant and profitable, enough will surely have been advanced to insure its success in "Westport! There are many minor reasons which might be argued in favor of the fancy bazaar. As for example, it encourages

local trade, and the manufacture of the various articles required conduce to industrial indoor habits, which results, in the interest of commerce nnd social harmony,should berespected its conferring an inestimable boon. Aga'ii as the numerous articles of taste and usefulness are contributed by the ladies, common gallantry ought therefore to protect both from the sneers of such a disagreeable old Cynic its " Subscriber." Theu there would be the attractions of the sale d<\ys! the magnificent stalls ! with all their grand display of needle-work and German toys! ! and last, though not least, the pr< siding divinities !!! whose blandishment no man ever could withstand. Who that has been bled by these persuasive saleswomen ever regretted his libera! gallantries? Let the bazaar by all means be held at Christmas tide —the great carnival Of the West Coast. That particular period when one portion of our community abandon themselves to squander their money—and theotherportiou devote themselves religiously to collect it. In order that, while doing a profitable business, the bazaar may provide a pleasing retreat for the way-ward and foolish among us, and thus become a counter attraction to the seductive allurements of the town during the Christmas holidays.

One word more ! Where the moral advantages are so great and undeniable, I submit it would be impertinent to enquire too particularly as to the application of any funds, which it may reasonably be surmised, would be made by means of any bazaar. Indeed when it is considered that the ladies contribute the goods and sell them to the best advantage, they should be permitted to apply the proceeds in such manner as they may be pleased,

" Subscriber's " insinuation about the " pressing necessities of a christian church," was irreverent and illuatured. If the patrons of the bazaar see fit to hand over all the money realised to the minister's stipend fund, what right has " Subscriber" to object ? Or any other man !—I am, &c, A Pabishtonkb of St. John's.