SUPERINTENDENTS' ANNUAL REPORTS.

White Ribbon, Volume 21, Issue 250, 18 April 1916, Page 18

SUPERINTENDENTS' ANNUAL REPORTS.

MAORI. Superintendent: Mrs Walker. This year has been a difficult and trying one in all departments of Temperance work, but in this department, in addition to th many calls upon our time and purses for assistance for patriotic purposes, we have also had to contend with the disorganisation of the work caused by our Organiser’s unfortunate ill-health, which finally compelled her to resign last June. Shortly after last Convention Miss Woodhead again had to undergo hospital treatment, and a rest of three months was again granted to her, but as she did not regain her strength as she had hoped to, she felt it her duty to send in a letter of resignation, in which she stated that though she loved the work and was most grieved to give it up, she did not feel it fair to the Union to continue as Organiser on account of her health, and expressed her thanks and gratitude for the kindness and consideration that had been extended to her during her work with the Union. In all Miss Woodhead’s work with me since March, 1914, I have found her most conscientious, accurate, and business-like, and she has carried out her duties faithfully and well, and in a spirit of earnestness and self-sacrifice. I have been in communication with several workers whose names have been suggested to me, but so far without success. Meetings were held by Lyttelton, which held one at the Maori Pah. Mrs A. R. Atkir.son and Miss Woodhead addressed the meeting, the latter in Maori. Pahiatua had an address on Maori work at White Ribbon celebration. Palmerston North had a social on White Ribbon Day, to which some Maori women were invited. Gisborne had a report of the work from Mrs Walker. Literature was distributed by Ngaire to Waitara natives and Tokomaru Bay, which also sent K.K. pledge cards to the natives. Devonport sent three leaflets in Maori to every member of the native contingents in camp at Auckland, the leaflets being “Kitchener’s Appeal to Solto the Effects of Alcohol,” and an “Appeal to the Natives on the drink cjuestion,” and were translated by Rev. Chatterton and Rev. Wi Paraire, of Te Rau College. The following Unions sent contributions to the funds:—lnvercargill, Tuatapere, Ngaire, Pahiatua, Palmerston North, Devonport, and Gisborne. Donations have been thankfully received from Mrs Lee-Cowie and Miss Maunder. Miss McKeown (Hastings) did very good work this year with the collecting cards, also Mrs Fairlie (Gisborne). The following Unions, though they have not furnished reports, have contributed to the work either by donations or collections :—Wellington District, New Plymouth, Kaiapoi, Oxford, Waimate,

Hastings, Winchmore, Napier, Nelson, Onehunga, Wellington Central, N.E. Valley, and Christchurch. Though the discouragement and difficulties of this work this year have been great, we must remember that we have all —Maori and European alike —had to enter into the valley of the shadow together, and we believe that the bonds which have been formed there with our Maori sisters, who are suffering and grieving at the loss of their dear ones, and also rejoicing at their deeds of heroism, have been so firmly welded together that out of the suffering will come with our purification a truer sympathy and understanding of each other’s needs. Our thanks are due to. the Maori people, both men and women, who are so nobly upholding the honour of Britain in this terrible struggle.

ANTI-GAMBLING. Superintendent: J. Roberts. When communicating with Unions on other matters, 1, in July last, drew the attention of every Union to the shameless way in which the Government was then allowing the Gaming Act to be broken in connection with raffles and art unions for patriotic purposes. Unions were asked to watch for the introduction of legislation extending facilities for racing and gambling, and to do their utmost to resist its passage into law. I have reason to believe this was done generally, but the Bill went through with such lightning speed that 1 do not think it was possible to do much effective work. New Zealand has had a “riot of gambling’’ this year, and 1 urge the attention of Convention to the folio' ing figures, published in the “Lyttelton Times” of January 6th:— “This list comprises no meetings that were held before December 27, so that it represents the results of a week’s racing in the Dominion. It shows that the amounts invested at twenty-three meetings during that brief period totalled ,£831,786 10s, as follows: £ Auckland Racing Club ... 236,181! Manawatu Jockey Club ... 84,834 Auckland Trotting Club ... 65,592 Stratford Racing Club ... 38,861 Wairarapa Racing Club ... 39,325 Canterbury Park Trotting Club 47.646 Marton Jockey Club 41,052 Taranaki Jockey Club ... 36,648! Dunedin Jockey Club ... 35,075 Hawke’s Bay Jockey Club ... 34.350 Southland Racing Club ... 25,690 North Otago Jockey Club ... 24,420 Thames Jockey Club ... 19,671 Greymouth Trotting Club ... 16,860 Ashburton Trotting Club ... 14,133! Westport Trotting Club ... 11,500 Gore Trotting Club 10,807 Greymouth Jockey Club ... 9,925 Reef ton Jockey Club ... 9,291

Wyndham Racing Club ... 9,175 Waikouaiti Racing Club ... 9,005 Taratahi-Carterton R.C. ... 8,923 Porangahau Jockey Club ... 3,021 A conservative estimate of the “investments’ at the meetings which have not been included in the above table will bring the total to ,£Bsojooo or more.” Add to this all the previous racing throughout the year, with the shameful gambling in connection with socalled “patriotic” affairs of all kinds, and it is easy to see how our national character is being debased and demoralised. No better state of things can come about until Christian churches, people, and institutions absolutely refuse to be identified in any way with anything, no matter how laudable its object, that has gambling in any form associated with it. That is the stand Christchurch Union has taken, and at the risk of opprobrium and misrepresentation, will not take part in, nor assist at, any patriotic or other effort which disgraces itself by promoting gambling. It is to be regretted that the churches in Christchurch did not act in the same manner. The Ministers’ Association passed five resolutions against gambling for patriotic purposes, but 1 consider their effect was utterly nullified by the churches taking part in and assisting at a carnival where gambling was a prominent and much advertised feature. The following Unions report efforts for the prevention of increased gambling facilities:—Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington, Auckland, Ngaire, Kaiapoi, Invercargill, Kaikorai, Hawera, Otautau, Invercargill South Branch, Blenheim, Ponsonby, Pahiatua, Nelson, Wanganui East, Winchmore, Feilding, Cambridge, Waipukarau, Waimate. One Union sent a report telling of efforts in this direction, but there is nothing to indicate the name of the Union, and the name of the sender does not appear in the list of Presidents or Secretaries of L’nions.

WORK AMONG SEAMEN. (Superintendent, Mrs Hatchwell). Dunedin Sailors’ Rest has been opened 30 years. Mr A. R. Falconer, for 28 years Missioner, has been this year called to higher service, and his splendid work will be long remembered. The high spiritual tone,has been well maintained by Mr R. Robertson the present Missioner who personally visits the boats. Mrs Palmer the caretaker does splendid service in the interests of the sailors. Timaru has lost Mr and Mrs Stead who had to resign after 17 years of faithful and efficient service. Mr and Mrs Good have taken up the work. The number of visitors has not been so large, as owing to the war, not so many Home steamers have been in port. 397 sailors made 793 visits. The men appreciate very highly what is done for them. Here they find a comfortable room with gfames, literature, and writing rnateiials. Bundle

of literature are given to eac h vessel leaving port. Mataura and Christchurch sent comfort bags, as also did Pahiatua, which also sent 40s to cover the cost of tilling. Greymouth still continues the good work. Several of the men *vho were regular visitors have gone in the transports to h*‘ip in the defence of our Empire. Lyttelton members assist in the work of the B. and F. Sailors’ Institute, and supply tracts for distribution at the Sunday evening service. Mrs booth, wife of the Superintendent of the Institute and a member of our Union, is mo>t energetic in helping the sailors, and has induced many of them to sign the pledge during the year. REST AND REFRESHMENT BOOTHS. Superintendent: Mrs C. S. Howard. The following Unions report refreshment booths at A. and P. Shows; Blenheim; Oxford (profits given to the Belgian Relief Fund) ; Napier (has just concluded a 5 years’ contract with Hawke’s Bay A. and P. Show to provide luncheon and tea at their Spring and Summer Shows); Palmerston N.; Christchurch (a very large effort, thousands being fed, and many having to go away for lack of room; boxes were placed on the tables to receive gifts for Red Cross work) ; Invercargill (K.K. pledge forms distributed at the V\ inter Show ; objectional pictures at W inter Show were removed at the request of a deputation from the Union). Rest Tents at Shows were provided by Blenheim, Timaru (literature distributed), Ilawera (proceeds given to Red Cross Funds), Invercargill (at Caledonian Show and at Retailers’ Patriotic Show). Several Unions assisted at the different functions held to raise funds for patriotic purposes: Kaiapoi (profits £()o), Oxford (profits given to Belgian Relief Fund), Christchurch (catered at Harvest Festival, and handed over profits amounting to to Belgian Relief Fund, also at the Tournament, in aid of sick and wounded). Palmerston N. has a rest room in the centre of the town, much used bv girls in business. Kaiapoi lets its rooms for social functions, and when let for weddings the members do all decorating and waiting. Members of Oxford assisted at Christchurch tent. HOME MEETINGS. Superintendent: Miss Dewar. This department of work, like all others, has suffered owing to the war and the urgent calls for Red Cross work. Quite a number of Unions have replied to my circular, saying that for the above reason no meetings have been neld. Ihe following Unions have sent reports : Ilawera held one meeting.

Pahiatua reports five meetings. Result, 8 new members. Ngaire held a number of Home meetings. Bluff, one meeting, addressed by Miss Powell. Gore, one meeting. Tuatapere held one meeting and three socials. Auckland, one very successful meeting, addressed by Miss Bisson; new members gained. Wellington South.—This Union considers Home meetings the best method for gaining new members. Most of the 51 new members this year were won by Home meetings. Four successful meetings held. Addresses by Mi>ses Powell and Bisson. Nelson. —Several meetings held, with good results; new members gained. Palmerston North.—Home meetings held regularly. Petone reports nine well-attended meetings, at which collections were taken up, amounting to £3 18s ;d. Bluff. —Two very helpful meetings held; new members were gained. Waipawa held Home Meeting, addressed by Miss Bisson on KK. Pledge (two new members); Hikurangi reports two successful meetings. PRISON AND REFORM WORK. Superintendent: Sister Moody Bell. Making in annual report of my deoartment is rather like “making nricks without straw.” 1 could wish that the scope of this department in New Zealand could be w idened to coincide with the world’s W.C.T.U., and to fall into line with their divisions of work. By regulation of the late Minister for Justice, no women are allowed to work or even to visit the men’s prisons of New Zealand. Mrs Barney, World’s Superintendent of Prison and Reform Work, considers it very desirable that an appeal should be made to the Minister for Justice with a view to the entrance of suitable wise and motherly women as visitors into the prisons for men. There is only one special prison for women in New Zealand. Only two Unions report work done in this department, Christchurch and Invercargill. The former reports that Mrs E. W. Cunnington suggests that prisons be called “Moral Hospitals.” Mrs Millar, of Lyttelton, has been appointed official visitor for the Government. Mrs Cunnington has recently furnished a little chapel at Addington Gaol in memory of her late husband. Invercargill reports four meetings organised for making the needs of this work known to the citizens. Arrangements were also made to canvass the city for financial aid. The Victoria Home for Friendless Girls of Invercargill and district is being maintained w ith efficiency. Some of the New Zealand Unions have remembered this work by acceptable gifts of clothing for the women and babies.

SCIENTIFIC TEMPERANCE INSTRUCTION. Superintendent: Miss Maunder. 1 am disappointed that more l nions have not taken up the temperance wall sheets essays, but it is cheering to know that the present Minister of Education has promised to take steps to bring the subject more definitely before the teachers. Again 1 would urge that if possible all scholars should write the essays, not volunteers only. The following Unions report giving prizes for essays on Temperance:— Christchurch (19 prizes), Kaiapoi (subject, “Temperance in Relation to the War”), Opotiki (i(> prizes), Birkenhead, Palmerston North (prizes presented by the Minister for Education). Auckland, Christchurch, Oxford, and Palmerston North report temperance addresses given at Band of Hope and other meetings. Hawera, Devonport, and Waimate report that they attempted to get essays written, but froi.i various causes the attempt failed. Ngaire and Opotiki (16 prizes) give prizes for Temperance Wall Sheets. Invercargill District, assisted by donation of Z*i from South Invercargill, gave prizes for essays on Temperance wall sheets to the 183 schools of the Southern province. Bluff, Otautau, Tuatapere, and Mataura have also given prizes for Temperance essays to the different schools. NOTABLE DAYS. Superintendent: Mrs Harrison. I regret that my first report in this department of work does not include more of our Unions. Perhaps the Unions have felt it difficult to work the “Red Letter Days” of our particular interests while there hangs over us this heavy war cloud, and so many patriotic and extra meetings have been called, in which we are proud to say our W’.C.T.U. members have nobly done their share, or it may be the Superintendent being somewhat new to her duties, has failed to impress her department on the minds of the workers. We are also struck by the fact that some of our largest Unions have not sent in any report, and we trust some effort has been put forth, though not reported. 1 think one Union suggests adding another Red Letter Day to list, but would it not be advisable to try and work successfully the “Notable Days” set apart by Convention ere we take up fresh duties in that direction, however worthy the occasion may be. I trust the reports sent in by no means cover the work accomplished. Franchise Day.—Gisborne held a meeting, addressed by Revs. Chatterton and McCutcheon and Miss Malcolm. Resolution of protest passed re Hospital Board elections. Collection, £l. Nelson; Oxford had a paper on “Citizenship” by Mrs Kippenberger; Bluff had suitable papers read; Pahiatua meeting, paper read

by Mrs Neal on “Franchise Movement in New Zealand,” and one by Mrs Paterson on “The Disabilities which Women Still Labour Under,” collection of 17s; Napier had an address by Matron of Bethany Home on “How to Help our Fallen Sisters,” collection; Nelson and Hawera also celebrated this day. T. K. Taylor Day.—Gisborne read an article on his life, and took up a collection for local funds; Timaru, the President read a sketch of his life* Oxford observed it by inaugurating the K.K. Pledge campaign; Christchurch had an address by Miss Henderson on “The Progress of Prohition in Other Lands,” also a collection ; Pahiatua, an address by Miss Powell on “Aims and Objects of the W.C.T.U.”; Hawera, a special meeting, (k) present, collection; Napier, an address on Temperance work by Rev. Eric Evans; Nelson, Invercargill, and Greymouth also celebrated it. White Ribbon Day.—Winchmore, a collection for Maori work; Gisborne, an address by Mrs Walker, and collection of 10s (id for Maori work; Christchurch had an address by Miss Henderson on “Woman’s Work in England During the War” ; Pahiatua, an address by Mrs Crabb on “Maori Work and the ‘White Ribbon’ P;iper,” collection 15s; Napier, an address by Mrs Dearlove; Nelson, Invercargill, and Greymouth also celebrated this day. Frances Willard Day.—Christchurch had an address by Miss Henderson; Pahiatua, drawing-room meeting, paper on the life of Frances W illard, collection 12s; Napier, Nelson, and Greymouth also celebrated. MEDICAL TEMPERANCE. Superintendent: Mrs Neal. The following distributed literature: Palmerston North sent to Trentham, also gave pamphlets to nurses and chemists; Pahiatua gives a copy of safe remedies to each new member, and also puts them in comfort b.igs to be sent to sailors, and posted them to men of the district who enlisted; Pahiatua and Devonport distributed literature at Home meetings. The following Unions purchased leaflets: —Dunedin, Sawyer’s Bay, Pahiatua, New Brighton, South Dunedin, Otahuhu, Auckland, and New Plymouth. 450 leaflets were distributed free. Palmerston North gave addresses to L.T.L. upon “The Effects of Alcohol upon the Heart,” and questions were set upon the lecture for the children to answer. (Medical Temperance Balance-Sheet. Receipts.—Balance, 1914, 5s yd; sales Christchurch Convention, 18s fid; sales by post, £2 2s sd. Total, 6s Sd. Expenditure.—Purchase of stock, US A , 7s nd; postage on parcels, letters, etc., 4s 8d; balance in hand, £.2 14s id. Total, £3 6s Bd. In ic) 14, 25 Unions purchased leaflets; in 1015 only 15 Unions pur<hased leaflets.

EVANGELISTIC. (Superintendent: Mrs Upton. Auckland, Palmerston North, Christchurch. Wanganui, Wanganui East, Ng.iio, Pahiatua, Devonport, Nelson, Oxford, and Bluff report special intercessory meetings for help and guidance in connection with the present war. Chfristchurch, Wellington, Wanganui, Wanganui East, Devonport, Asnburton. Auckland and Invercargill report having h prayer meetings, at which helpful addresses were given, and Bible readings. Wanganui, Wellington, and Ashburton have visited the sick and sad in hospitals and other institutions. Devonport and Auckland have distributed evangelistic literature, and the latter Union has also given away many Testaments. Ashburton and Wellington visited the relatives of those who had given their life in defence of their country. Invercargill reports holding meetings at which Gospel temperance addresses were given. GOOD CITIZENSHIP. Superintendent: Marian Judson. Only eleven Unions have reported work done in this department, the greater part of which has been in connection with the municipal elections and those for the School Committees and Hospital and Charitable Aid Boards. Immediately af T er last Convention I called the attention of the Unions to these elections, with special referenc e to the representation of women, and suggesting the holding of home meetings to arouse the interest and secure the co-operation of women. Wellington District, 1 imaru, Dunedin, Christchurch, Napier, Invercargill, and Nelson helped in the successful candidature of women on the Hospital and Charitable Aid Boards, Napier having also recommended the appointment of a District Nurse. W annate, Ngaire, Wellington District, Timaru, Christchurch, and Nelson had a large share in placing women on the School Committees, Dunedin failing only through misunderstand ng as to the date of the election. In Nelson an Election Committee was formed, and a series of home meetings heid in support of the women candidates. In Dunedin a large meeting was held before election day, in which Mesdames Don and Driver took part; Mrs Don is also Chairwoman of the Women’s Advisory Committee in connection with the Hospital Board, and by virtue of this has a seat upon the Board. An effort was made in Dunedin to place a woman on the Education Board, but was unsuccessful. The only possible way to obtain this very desirable end would be to get a larger proportion of women on School Committees, by whom the members of the Board are elected, and all our Unions would do well to bear this in mind. The greater part of the work of the Educational Department is done by the

Education Boards, and it is only through the School Committees that women can obtain a share in the administration. In Dunedin, also, two women have been placed upon the Committee of the newlv-formed Town Planning Association. Christchurch, Pahiatua, Ashburton, Winchmore, and l'inwald Unions report having taken part in patriotic relief work, and the entertainment of men leaving for Trentham; the Ashburton President being Secretary to the Ladies’ Patriotic Committee, and the President of Pahiatua Secretary of the St. John Ambulance Home Nursing and of the Medical Corps of the Women’s National Reserve. The Educational work of this department has not been largely taken up. Early in the winter I suggested that it would be well, under the present war conditions, tor women to study and try to understand something of the causes of war and the principles underlying a true and permanent peace, not with the idea that much could be done towards altering present conditions, but that they might be prepared to take their part in the peace settlement which must some day come, and in the meantime use their influence in bringing about that will for peace without which peace can never be. There are many women’s organisations throughout the world with this object, presided over bv the foremost women of the day, and it would seem that a country like New’ Zealand, where every woman possesses a vote, should not be behindhand in this matter. In Nelson fortnightly meetings were held through the winter months on these lines. Ihe only other work reported of an educational character is from Pahiatua, where one paper upon Good Citizenship was read, and from Invercargill, which reports a discussion in connection with the municipal elections. 1 do not take this as an indication of want of interest, but I would urge all our women to realise their responsibilities in this matter, and to try systematically to fit themselves for the carrying of them out. Christchurch, Nelson, Timaru, and Invercargill have canvassed for K. of K. pledges and for the 6 o’clock closing of hotel bars. Christchurch and Invercargill obtained signatures for the “Alice Parkinson petition.” Christchurch and Ashburton worked to obtain from the City Council increased and better conveniences for women and children, the Ashburton Union having been instrumental, after nine years’ effort, in opening Women’s Rest Rooms, which are proving highly successful. Invercargill reports a resolution and deputation to Councillor Ott re objectionable picture films. Christchurch also reports having enquired with good results into the enforcement of the byelaw re boys under 12 selling newspapers; having forwarded a petition protesting against inadequate sentences passed on men for criminal assaults on young girls; waiting upon the Editors of daily papers with re-

gard to objectionable reports of certain cases; and sending congratulations to the women of Denmark on the full political franchise being granted to them; to the temperance party in Ontario on the carrying of Prohibition by 2 to 1 ; and to the four women of South Australia who have been appointed Justices of the Peace. Nelson also sent a letter of congratulation to the President of the South Australian Union, one of the four J. Napier has circulated amongst the members Mr W. S. Smith’s book on “The Women’s Franchise Movement in New Zealand.” In conclusion, I may say that more than one I’nion which appointed a local superintendent of this department at the beginning of the year has sent in no report, and it is possible that all the work done may not be included in this. May I once more remind every Union of the duty of reporting everything that has been done, however little it may be, not only that we may have a complete report of the work of the N.Z. Union, but also as an incentive to others to go and do likewise. BACKBLOCKS. Superintendent: Mrs Israel. The two Wellington Unions keep the railway boxes well supplied with literature. Parcels of literature have been sent to the railway camps and backblocks bv Ngaire (25 parcels), Palmerston N. (3 parcels), Invercargill, Hawera, Gisborne (179 papers and temperance booklets). Palmerston N. posted 22 papers to private addresses. M. Stephenson (name of Union not given) reports two parcels sent to backblocks. MILITARY CAMPS. Superintendent: Mrs Mitchell. Invercargill reports: Two important resolutions sent to Minister of Defence, re (1) “Alcohol in Camps,” (2) “Sending chaplains with each reinforcement.’’ National President requested to send cablegram to King George, Lord Kitchener, and Hon. . Lloyd George re “Pledges in wartime.’’ Distribution of 1000 K. and K. pledges at the Winter Show. Assistance in working K. and K. campaign. Distribution of K. and K. pledges to troopers who are leaving New Zealand. Resolution sent to Dr. Valentine re “medical examination and detention (where necessary) of re turning troopers.” Satisfactory reply received. Arrangements for providing sandbags for the trenches [j[. 7 sent, also other sums). Bluff reports pocket Testaments given to soldiers leaving. Gore.—K.K. pledges distributed. Tuatapere sent £5 5s for procuring sandbags for the soldiers. South Invercargill canvassed town with Kitchener pledges, also helped in large public meeting with Kitchener

pledges. Donation sent towards sandbags. Timaru and Waimate sent literature to Trentham. Nelson reports sending literature to the camps; presenting the Nelson men when leaving for the Front with suitably inscribed New Testaments; corresponding with soldiers .it the Front who would not probably get letters or parcels any other way. Very few Unions repoit: any speii.tl work in this department as Unions, but all through New Zealand our members are working in some* way for the soldiers. Suggestions. Nelson’s correspondence scheme.Inviting and bringing soldiers from the camps to your homes through other young men; they will not come alone. Procuring books for the camps and transports. One Christchurch man, writing home, stated that the chaplain’s library was invaluable on the* boat, especially to the sick. The Chaplain, writing home, said the pleasure in the men’s faces amply repaid for any trouble in getting library together. 350 had covers, 400 soft covers, and sacks of magazines were procured in a few days for one transport alone. We as Unions might heln in this matter, also in helping to provide games, such as bagatelle, etc., for the camps. And I hope this Convention will pass a very strong resolution in favour of early closing of hotels and prohibiting the sale of liquor to soldiers. “PRESS.” Superintendent: Mrs Duxfield. Once again it is my pleasure to present to Convention a report of the work done in connection with the “Press” department. I am sorry to say only twenty Unions have reported work done, but at the same time I feel sure many other Unions write letters, etc., to the Press, and also report their meetings in “White Ribbon” and other papers, but have neglected to notify your Dominion Press Superintendent. You will notice several Branches make good use of their local papers by inserting suitable clippings and writing letters when necessary. All this is good and useful, and we should like to suggest that more of this kind of Press work should be done, as we can in this way keep our cause constantly before the public. All Unions whose local papers are sympathetic have great opportunities to push this department. There is power in the Press, and we would urge Convention and all Unions to take full advantage of the Press whenever possible. The following Unions reported that all meetings had been reported in the local papers:—Timaru, Waimate, Palmerston N., Ashburton, Masterton, Greymouth, Winchmore, Nelson, Invercargill, Hawera, Pahiatua, Wanganui E., Napier, Dunedin, Ngaere, Kaiapoi, and Wanganui. Resolutions

passed at their meetings were published in the papers be the following : —Ashburton, Wanganui Last, and Kaiapoi. Pahiatua and Napier give copies of the “World’s Bulletin’ to the Press, w hile Pahiatua gave a copy of Convention number to the editor of local paper. Masterton, Greymouth, Nelson, Hawera, Pahiatua, Wanganui East, Napier, Ngaere, Kaiapoi, and W anganui report their meetings in the “White Ribbon.” Greymouth advertises its meetings in the local press, and so gets a local in as well. Greymouth also sends clippings to the papers, while Dunedin is responsible for the “Follow the King” column weekly in the “Evening Star.’’ The circular letter to the Moderate League was inserted in the press by Timaru, Waimate, Nelson, lnvercaririll, Edendale, South Invercargill, Pahiatua, and Dunedin. Letters were written to the press by Ashburton, Nelson (to women electors before the municipal election), Christchurch (on Temperance, (iambling, and other subjects). Christchurch press also commented on the resolutions passed at last Convention on the anomalies of the laws relating to women ; on the debatable clause in the Naturalisation Bill; and reports of women’s activities in Great Britain. LEGAL AND PARLIAMENTARY. Superintendent: J. Roberts. The year has been a busy one in this department. In June 1 forwarded to each Union a copy of the proposals of the Medical Conference with regard to venereal disease; a copy of the resolutions passed by Convention in March last in connection with this matter; and a circular letter pointing out the provisions which embodied the worst features of the C.D. Acts. All Unions were urged, in the event of any attempt being made to reintroduce the C.I). Acts under guise of these proposals, to pass resolutions on the lines of Convention’s resolution, and forward them to the Premier, Minister of Public Health, Speaker of Legislative Council, Sir Joseph Ward, and to the member or members of their district. In reply to applications from some Unions for more information on this subject, I again in July circularised every Union amplifying my former communication and enclosing a very carefully drafted series of resolutions indicating lines, approved by many Conventions, upon which resolutions might be framed. I did this more for the sake of the smaller and outlying Unions, but sent them to all. 1 summarised a good deal of expert evidence given before the Royal Commission on Venereal Disease, sitting in England. This summary was printed in the “White Ribbon’’ of August i.Xth. A paper on venereal disease was prepared for and read at the Canterbury Provincial Council, and appeared in the October number of the “White Ribbon.” This paper and the summary of evidence has been published in leaflet and pamphlet

forms for distribution, and our l nions should see that they get wide emulation. Unions were urgently urged to oppose the amendment to the C rimes Act, whereby no prosec udon for defilement of girls between the ages of 12 and 18 years could be commenced without the leave in writing of the Attorney-General. Though neither this amendment nor the medical proposals concerning venereal disease wer.e introduced into Parliament during last session, it by no means follows that the danger is past. All Unions will eed to keep close watch to prevent either or both these proposals, so dangerous to purity and morality, from becoming law. A copy of all *he above-mcniioned communications accompanies thi> report. A good many Unions notified me that they had passed the resolutions sent, or ones on similar lines, and from the published reports in the “White Ribbon” I note the name*., of more who have also done so. At least five Unions have passed resolutions antagonistic to tne stand taken by Convention with regard to the treatment of venereal disease. 1 am strongly of opinion that such a >h ng would not have happened had the members been possessed of wider knowledge concerning the operation of the CD. Acts and the great change that has taken place among scientific medical men as to the ireaiin *nt of venereal disease. 1 have to acknowledge, w ith warmest thanks, the valuable help and literature l received from Mrs Sheppard and Miss Henderson. The following Unions passed lutions supporting Convention in the opposition to compulsory examination and detention, and compulsory notification of venereal disease: —Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington District, Wellington Central, Duned n District, South Dunedin, Gisborne, Invercargill, Invercargill Somh branch, Timaru, Qtautau, Ponsonby, Mosgiel, Greymouth, bluff, Ashburton, Ngaire, Kaiapoi, Willow by, Pahiatua, Feilding, Kaikorai, Haw era, Whangarei, Opotiki, Nelson, Waimate, New Brighton. Ashburton passed resolutions on three occasions against the inadequate punishment meted out to men guilty of sexual offences against women and girls. W illow by passed and forw ard* d a resolution asking for an amendment to the Crimes Act, whereby in affiliation cases where several men are implicated, each shall be made liable for the whole of the maintenance, the 'money to be paid into Court for the benefit of the child. The “White Ribbon” records that Palmerston North and Napier proiest'ed against the vote cast for the continuance of Bellamy’s. The petition for six o’clock closing was heartily taken up by the Unions, All Unions sending in reports mention it, while several made efforts for

the mitigation of the severe sentence passed on Alice Parkinson. Dunedin and Christchurch voiced very decidedly their indignation over the liquor supplied to tne Hospital Ship; letters went to Lord Liverpool from both those Unions. Kaiapoi passed a vote of censure on Parliament for refusing to the evils of the liquor traffic and for increasing facil.ties for gambling and racing Ngaio, Otautau, Tuatapere. report several resolutions and telegrams to Government and members connected with temperance and social matters, but do not indicate their nature. Some very tine educative work was done by Waimate l nion by summarising the paper on venereal disease and getting it pr.nted in two local papers. Correspondence this year has been very considerable. EDUCATIONAL BUREAU. Superintendent: Mrs Young. The following Unions report holding Educational meetings : —Christchurch Subjects discussed, Frances Willard, Anti-Gambling, Women’s Work in the Old Land During War, Progress of Prohibition in Other Lands); Pahiatua (paper on Good Citizenship, Medical Temperance, Life of Frances Willard, addresses on Comparison of Cost between War and the Liquor i rathe, “White Ribbon” Paper, Women’s Franchise Movement in New Zealand, Women’s Disabilities): Invercargill (addresses on the work of F. X. Charrington, Methods of Dr. Montessori, What War Has Done for Women, Diet or Dentistry); bluff (Franchise in Britain); Fdendale; Otautau (lantern lecture); South Invercargill (Kitchener Pledge, Ignorance, Prospective Motherhood, Prenatal Influence, Diet or Dentistry, Abolition of Vodka); Palmerston N. (held fortnightly meetings, which were well attended). LITERATURE. Superintendent; Mrs Dearlove. During the past year, in spite of adverse circumstances, a very fair amount of literature has been distributed by our various Unions, the "K.K.” pledges taking the foremost place. Of these, there are some thousands still on hand, and we would urge our members to continue the good work of striving to get more pledges signed. Many Unions who have purchased various booklets have sent no report, but few having been received. Timaru notably has sent literature to Trentham, also giving bundles of same to the men on each boat leaving the port. Devonport similarly sent leaflets in Maori to each member of the 2nd Contingent; also to Gallipoli and Malta for the ist Maori Contingent, and posted “Vanguard” to soldiers on active service. These examples are to be commended. Our sailors, too,

have not been forgotten. Comfort bags, containing usetul reading matter, having been forwarded. Railway stations, rest tents, and Snow grounds have not been neglected. Invercargill accounted tor iooo “K.K.’s ' at their Winter Show, and distributed a large and varied assortment during the year, being assisted by Mrs Cowie. Our own “White Ribbon ’ paper has come in for its share, some by mofithlv copies, and others by tne Convention number. Some 47 subscriptions have been sent this year for the “Purity Advocate.” It seems a pity that those sending name for this worthy, quarterly .u the small price of sixpence so often fail to renew their subscription. Surely this cannot be from lack of interest or fault in the paper, but just a lapse of memory or not understanding the necessity of renewal, therefore 1 would here draw attention to it, and hope this year to have a large list. Appended arc the year s receipts and disbursements: — Literature. —Sold, £\y 2s 4d; bought, £b 7s 3d; N.Z. Treasurer for K.K.’s, Z-4- Total, £() 15s id. Purity.—Sold, /13 Ns id; bought, etc., £ll 6s 6d. Total, £2 is 7d. PURITY AND MORAL EDUCATION. Addresses on Purity: Napier held two meetings, addressed by Miss Austen, one by Deaconess Biand, who spoke on “Character Building,” jlso two meetings addressed by local friends. Pahiatua. addresses by Mr Bligh; Invercargill, meetings addressed by Mrs Lee-Cowie and Sister Moody-Bell; Palmerston N., meeting addressed by Miss Austen; Dunedin, meeting addressed by Mrs Lindo Ferguson on “Venereal Disease.” Mrs Ferguson suggested that a clean bill of health shouid be required before the issue of a marriage license; Winchmore held tw o meetings’ addressed by local clergy. Purity literature was distributed by Haw era, Invercargill, Dunedin (among soldiers), Winchmore, and Pahiatua. The following l nions circulate literature: —Invercargill (“Purity Advocate” and “American Motherhood”) ; Winchmore (“Purity Advocate”) ; Palmerston X. has lent out Purity books locally and also to Woodville; Pahiatua distributed free s x copies of the “Purity Advocate,” also has given away 35 booklets, and has a lending library of 36 books and 23 leaflets. The Invercargill Union protested against some objectionable pictures on the Southland Show Ground, and they were removed. Dunedin Union discusses clauses in the Public Health Act, and sent a protest to the Ministers against the same. Timaru sent leaflets to Trentham; Waimate distributed 300 leaflets, and Auckland has distributed literature and passed resolutions of protest

against the medical proposals and the Public Health Amendment Act.. Addresses on subject by Mrs Snow and Mrs Hutchison, of the Door of Hope. Timaru had papers read at meetings and distributed literature. Bluff reads papers from “White Ribbon,” also had paper on “The Need for Franchise in Britain,” and on “Public Health Act.” Y’s AND MEDAL CONTESTS. Only three Onions sent reports. Pahiatua reports no work done. Invercargill Y’s have disbanded owing to other claims on the time of the young women. Nelson Y’s have had a busy year. They report twelve meetings held, all well attended. Five new members have joined, bringing the total membership up to 21. itiss Atkinson, District President, held a knitting class for the Y’s, and as a result some large quantity of things were sent to Belgian babies. They also had a stall at a Sale of Work held by the Mother Union, and cleared £2 5s to assist their own funds. Well done, Sleepv Hollow! Your Y’s are evidentlv wide-awake, as well as wise (Y’s). SABBATH OBSERVANCE. • Superintendent: Mrs Boxall. Wry few Unions appointed Superintendents for this department for this year, and perhaps this is the reason that very little work is done in this direction. Only thirteen Unions sent replies to my circular, and eight report no work done. Only five Unions send anv report of work done. Dunedin lodged a protest against Sunday concerts and picnics; Gisborne against Sunday picture shows; Devonport against Sunday football on public reserves; Hastings against Sunday trains. Literature was distributed and personal appeals made to those seen Sabbath-breaking by Dunedin and Wellington District. PEACE AND ARBITRATION. Superintendent: Mrs Lee-Cowie. Never has there been greater need for spreading peace and love and goodwill throughout the stricken world than this past year, and I am thankful to say some of the Unions have earnestly echoed the angels’ song and sounded the holy note amid the dm and clang cf war. About six Branches have sent in reports of work done.

Bluff has had one special meeting. Otautau has had peace meetings. Ponsonby has some faithful peace workers, as has Auckland. Invercargill has held an Empire prayer meeting on every hriday throughout the year at Amethyst Hall, while many addresses have been given inculcating peace principles on the lines laid down by the Saviour of the world. When the horrid god of militarism is dreaded and abhorred as he should be, the great good God of Peace will enter in, and conquer by force of Love. Although of every hope bereft, Turn neither to the right or left, The God of Peace shall rule and reign, , And earth shall Eden be again. CRADLE ROLL, L.T.L. AND BAND OF MERCY. (Superintendent: Mrs Neal. Cradle Roll. The following Unions report Cradle Roll work:—Auckland, 55, increase 22 ; Opotiki, 72, increase 4; W arkworth, 103, increase 13; Cambridge, 55; Napier, 84. increase 10; New Plymouth, 254, increase 18; Ngaere, 110; flaw era, 141 ; Pahiatua, 108, increase 37: Woodville, 132, increase 80; Wellington, 37; Petone, increase 24; Nelson, 96; Christchurch, Oi ; Oxford, 40, increase 21 ; Timaru, 205, increase 63; Sawyer’s Bay, increase 73: Invercargill, 20; Edendale, 23, increase 5; Gore, 25. increase 0. Picnics were held by Napier, Ngaere, Woodville (address on “Influence of the Home”), Timaru (address by Plunket nurse), Invercargill, Garden Party (address by Miss Powell). Afternoon meetings were held bv Woodville (address on “Cradle Army and Alcoholic Degeneracy”), Wellington (address by Miss Bisson), Petone (two afternoon teas, address by Plunket nurse), Oxford (two meetings, addressed by local doctor). Sawyer’s Bay (afternon tea addressed by Sirs Don, Sirs Edmonds, and Miss McCarthy). Auckland, Napier, and Pahiatua (150 visits) visit the mothers, and Auckland distributes literature. Timaru sent 15 good-bye letters to members who nave reached the age limit. The following Unions purchased cards: —Papakura, Kapuni, Ponsonbv, W hangarei, Blenheim, Palmerston N., Normanby, Waipawa, and Rangiora. Unions purchasing cards for the first time are: Hasting:., Edendale, Sawyer’s Bay, Dunedin, Bluff. Otau-

tau. New Brighton, South Dunedin, Invercargill, linwald, Otahuhu, Belfast, Lyttelton, Tokomaru Bay, Gisborne, and Lower llutt. The following Unions pun based the Mother’s Purity leaflets for Cradle Roll work: Dunedin, Auckland, Belfast, Waipawa, Otahuhu, Pahiatua, New Brighton, Sawyer’s Bay, South Dunedin, and Blenheim. The following Unions purchased three medical leaflets: —Dunedin, Sawyer's Bay, Pahiatua, New Brighton, South Dunedin, Otahuhu, New Plymouth, and Auckland. » In response to numerous requests, I can now supply a certificate for Superintendents to send with the eighth-year birthdav card, price 2d.

L.T.L. and Band of Hope. The following Unions have Bands of Hope:—Cambridge, Waipukurau (Si), Opotiki, Oxford (23 new members this year), Bluff, Edendale, and Otaiitau; Invercargill and South Invercargill assist at Band of Hope meetings. L.T.L’s.: —Napier (101)—two socials held, Palmerston North < 110) —organised three new branches, Terrace End (41). West End (41), Okoia (60), »nd Oxford, Napier and Waipukurau held magic lantern entertainments; Oxford gave a picnic and Invercargill held competitions. Prizes were given by Waipukurau (best reciter, best essay on a S< ripture character, regular contributors to the programme), Opotiki (10 prizes to schools for essays on Temperance Wall Sheets), Terrace End (attendance). Okoia has ai. address every week on alcohol, while Fitzherbert, Okoia and Oxford each wear the L.T.L. badpe. Terrace End collections were four guineas, of which two were given to the Sick and Wounded Soldiers’ Fund. Okoia handed £4 10s 6d to the Patriotic Committee, and £3 4s 7d to the N.Z. Organising Fund. Winchmore purchased L.T.L. badges, charts, and song books. Band of Mercy. Invercargill and Pahiatua distributed leaflets to the Sunday Schools. Balance-Sheet, Cradle Roll, L.T.L., and Band of Mercy. Receipts:—Balance, 1914, .£5 14s; Sales Christchurch Convention, £2 os id; Sales by Post, ,£ls is id. Total £22 15s 2d. Expenditure:—Printing Cradle Roll Birthday Cards, £4 iqs; Printing Cradle Roll Certificates, £3 qs sid; Purchases, U.S.A., £3 6s id; Purchases, England, £2 14s nd; Band of Mercy Literature, Ss; Envelopes, Writing Pads, Receipt Books, 12s;

Postage, Letters and Parcels, £i 19s 1 id; Balance in hand. £5 5s gjd. Total, £22 15s 2d. 1 ()2 letters and q 8 parcels sent out by this department during the year. Dunedin Hand of Hope Report came direct to Kditor too late for incorporation in above. CLARA M. NEAL, Dominion Superintendent. BIBLE-IN-SCIIOOLS DEPARTMENT. Superintendent: Mrs Moulder. Only two Unions sent reports, and both say no work has been done in this department. 1 can only surmise that the other Unions have done nothing, or so little that they have not thought it w orth report ing. In this time of the world’s great need, when God is speaking so loudly, let us do our part to help to have the Bible read in our public schools. MOTHERS’ MEETINGS. Superintendent: Mrs X. Jones. Meetings held: 1 imaru held a meeting, addressed by Plunket Nurse; Xormanby, .1 paper by the N.Z. Superintendent read, on “The Responsibility of Mothers to God, Their Children, and the District They Live in,” and “How Mothers’ Meetings May Be Made Helpful”; Invercargill had two meetings, and also a Garden Party, which was addressed by Mbs Powell; Ponsonby held a meeting in June. Pahiatua mothers and children attended five Home meetings. Waimate distributed and lent books and leaflets. Dunedin organised a weekly patriotic prayer meeting specially for mothers who have boys at the Front. Quite a number of requests for pra>er were sent in, which weie entered in a book and read out at each meeting, the mothers themselves oftimes interceding for their own sons. Short addresses were given and suitable hymns sung. These gatherings Listed all the winter, and were great y ..ppredated by those who attended. FLOWER MISSION AND RELIEF WORK. Superintendent: Miss E. C. Cole. The following I’nions reported visiting the Hospital regularly "Napier (delicacies taken and cards distributed), Timaru, literature and flowers taken), Hampton (flowers, periodicals, eggs, etc., taken for the patients), Gisborne (visits also the Old Men’s Home), Petone (flowers and papers taken), Ngaire (flowers distributed), Christchurch (Jubilee Home visited, flowers and literature distributed), Greymouth. Pahiatua, Kaiapoi, Timaru. and Greymouth report visiting and help ing the sick; Warkworth collected and mended clothes for the Auckland poor; Gisborne made sheets, pillowslips, and towels for the Salvation Army Home; Ngaire sent a parcel to

the Door of Hope, Auckland, gave a maternity bag to a mother, and sent clothing to the Invercargill Home. Wellington District l nion visited three laundries, three factories, and the Alexandra Home at Christmas, and distributed flowers "and literature, and Kaiapoi sent letters of sympathy to members in trouble. CLautau sent a case of clothing to and collected £ 13 Tor Dr. Barnardo’s Homes; Mataura stmt 308 articles to Baraardo’s Homes; and Warkworth sent clothing to the poor of London. In addition 10 this, a vast amount of work was done for the various Patriotic Funds Ashburton and W inc hmore provided tea for the boys of the county who were leaving that evening for Trentham; Ashburton sent comfort bags c hocolates, etc., to the boys on H.M S. Philomel, Psyche, and Pyramus ; Bluff lent their hall to the Patriotic Committee, and assisted in their work; Tuatapere, Normanby, and Pahiatua report knitting for soldiers; Petone gave flowers to beys leaving for the front; Christchurch granted £5 to the Nurses' Relief Fund; Napier and Waimate made articles for the soldiers; and Mosgiel and Edendale report work of this kind done. Wounded Soldiers’ Fund. —Ashburton (street collection and flower selling) ; W inchmore assisted at a Produce Stall, which raised ,£25; Invercargill ; Warkworth m; :ts once a week to sew and knit foi this fund; Christchurch helped with afternoon tea at fete for this fund; Pahiatua sent money and comforts; Petone visits and takes flowers to sick and wounded soldiers. Belgian Relief Fund. —Napier collected £33 ss, and made 480 garments; Ashburton had charge of rest tent at Belgian Relief Fet'\ also helped in street collections ar.H flower selling; Gore sent garments, and Otautau Band of Hope collection of £3 ; Tuatapere collected clothing, also j£i4; Normanby (30s) ; Ngaire, parcels of clothing; Christchurch took charge of luncheon and tea rooms at Harvest Festival, and raised y. 275, also sent box of ciothing; Invercargill. Red Cross Fund. —Napier collected £.21) 14s, and sent two cases of Red Cross necessaries ; Kaiapoi rooms are used as Red Cross headquarters, and l nion managed refreshment tent at Patriotic Sports, and cleared ,£6O for the fund; Invercargill; Waipukurau does sewing and collecting; Nor* manbv gave .£3 ns 6d, also 10s to St. lohn Ambulance, and 30s to provide hospital bed for our boys, sells cuttings, plants and flowers for the fund; Ngaire sends parcels; Christchurch meets every week to sew, and sends parcels, collected ,£lO 14s by boxes on tables at A. and P. Show, members irive regular subscriptions to this fund. Sandbags were given by the following Unions: —Tuatapere (£7 for fund); Invercargill; Waimate, 102

bags; Mosgiel; Waipukurau, 130; Ngaire, ioo; Napier, 1O00; Normanby, between five and six hundred. Hospital Ship.—Pahiatua, money and bandages; New Brighton held a sox and handkerchief afternoon, result n dozen handkerchiefs, 28 pair sox. and £\ 18s 6d; Hikurangi, 200 garments, and helped to raise £2OO for it; Christc hurc h, bolt of flannel. Gore, Tuatapere. New Brighton, Normanby, and Mosgiel collected old linen for Red Cross, which Mosgiel also sterilised. NARCOTICS. Superintendent: Mrs Wright. I regret I have very little to report this year. Ngiere has a Non-Smok-ing League, and members secure pledges among men and boys. Importation of opium into the Dominion is prohibited except for medicinal purposes. Much is smuggled in. Wm. Clough, at Greymouth, was fined ,£IOO for being in possession of opium. A fine of 40s was imposed for selling tobacco to a youth under 15 years of age. The Minister for Internal Affairs requested committees not to put cigarettes into parcels to be d stributed on troopships. Knitteis are requested not to put cigarettes into the feet of the sox to be sent to the hall. HOME SCIENCE. Superintendent: Mrs McDonald. Wellington Central reports that Superintendent visited lavatories for women and children, and found only two which were up to the standard of a good lavatory Wellington Distric t Convention passed a resolution drawing attention to the exposure of food in shops and hand carts to flies and dust. Papers and meetings on the subject reported by Timaru (“The Ideal Home”), Devonport (subject discussed at various meetings), Invercargill District, and South Invercargill (“Diet or Dentistry”), South Invercargill (“Health Diet”). The spirit of thrift has been raised as never before, and the needs of our brave boys have been supplied by loving sacrifice in small things. As one young girl said, “Can’t gfford sweets now ; all my pocket money goes in wool and stamps.” UNFERMENTED WINE. Superintendent: Mrs Gaskin. When in Christchurch I tried tov»ct an advertisement from the Health Food Company for our paper. I am hoping to get an agent here in Greymouth to stock unfermented wine, so that it might be easily obtained for invalids, sacramental purposes, etc. 1 would suggest that where possible our I'nions might secure agents. Pahiatua and Timaru report no work done. The churches, with the exception of two, use unfermented wine. Greymouth reports unfermented wine used in two churches. Hawera has circulated literature.