News of the Unions.

White Ribbon, Volume 33, Issue 381, 18 April 1927, Page 11

News of the Unions.

BR ANCH REPORTS. Please take note: — 1. Reports should reach Editor by Bth of each month. 2. They should be short Don’t report routine business. Do report all new plans and efforts. 3. ÜB6 pen and ink, and write only on one side of the paper. RIVERTON. At the invitation of our Vice-President. Mrs Fordyce, we celebrated Frani'es Willard Day at the Manat*. Despite the cold, wet weather, a good number of members were present, and an enjoyable time spent. Solos were sung by Mrs Prosper, and by Rev. J. Kordyce. Mrs Borland grave an InterestiiiK address on the Life of Frances Willard. The members unanimously decided to hold social evenings for the young people during the Winter, and to secure good speakers to lecture on Temperance. Collection for Missionary Fund. HAWERA Mar. 25. Mrs Talt, presided; attendance fair. Mrs Ollernshaw acted as Secretary. Vote of sympathy passed to Miss Ballantyne in the loss of her sister, the late Mrs Winks Mrs Burge reported to be still very 111, but little Prayer Book sent as token of love from our members, was much appreciated by her. After a very profitable discussion on the benefits derived from No*Licen»e, Mrs Hill closed the meeting with pTayer. TAURANGA A very good attendance of members put the President and every member In good heart. Various matters of correspondence called forth some little discussion, then some local matters were dealt with, both present and future, and a refreshing cup of tea handed round, Mrs Jordan closing the meeting with prayer SOITH DUNEDIN. Mar 10. The President, Mrs Macartney, presided. The resignation of Mrs Grocott from the office of Evangelical Superintendent. was received with regret. Miss Ford appointed delegate, and Instructed to vote in favour of w-nding a petition to Parliament in favour of the Two-Issue Ballot Paper. Mrs M<Farlitue appointel Cradle Roll Superintendent. Mrs Macartney spoke in glowing terms of the “White Ribbon," and It was agreed to post one to Plunket Rooms, and two members will take theirs to the “Benevolent." As the next meeting falls on Thursday before Good Friday, it was decided to omit It and all attend the Central Union. Afternoon tea dispensed, after which the solo, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow." was sunr l»v Mm Williamson. Mrs Macartney the Scientific Fact which was on "The Food Va’ue of Alcohol." THAMES. Mar. R. Eleven ladles present The resignation of Mrs Miller as President, wai received with regret. Mrs Heard, who la an old member of the Union, was elected President, and she Is also delegate to the Convention. Mr Grlnstead. Field Secretary of the Alliance, gave us a very fine talk on Prohibition Some of the ladles are helping with the "Enrol a Friend £1 Campaign PETONE. Mar. 1 A very good attendance; Mrs Murgatroyd presiding. Miss Beddome, President-Secretary of the Y W.C.A.. gave us an Insight Into the working of the Association. Its aim being to unite w*omen to the Loyalty of Jesus Christ. Several ladles offered to distribute drculara Various resolutions were carried, and delegate to Convention to vote regarding same. Two visiting members were present, we welcome them to our midst. The pledge was repeated. Mar. 16. Social Afternoon at Mrs Alt ken's residence; a very happy time waa spent A "Give and Buy" Afternoon, which proved

very successful indeed. All useful articles were brought Mid everything sold. Mr* Jones welcomed Mrs Annett and Mrs Young to our Union. Mrs Battersby spoke on Prohibition. Mrs 11. Hayward sang two songs In her usual pleasant and able manner. Two little girs, Miss Connie Bilberry and Miss Rita Oillan. sang very beautifully to us. A daivity afternoon tea was served by the Hostess. A hearty \ ote of thanks was accord eft to all who made the afternoon so • •njoyable. It AETIH I. Apr. 1. Mrs Sandford presided over an excellent attendance. Mrs Griffin, the delegate to the Dominion Convention, gave a clear, concise and comprehensive account of the proceedings In Auckland, which greatly cheered and enthused our members. Decided to ask Mrs Lee-C\»wie to hold meetings in Tluetihl at an early date. LOWER HUTT. Mar. 23. Owing to a very wet, rough afternoon, there were osdy six members present, but we held a meeting. In the absence of our President at Convention. Mrs Sjn-iKcr took the chair. After the sing mg of a hymn and prayer, Mrs Alderslcy read a paper on Hygienics. Decided to make a copy of the paper, and read It again, as it was really wvirth It. and is a subject worthy of our consideration. Afternoosi tea was then served. PLEASANT POINT. On Saturday last at Pennant Point, a very enthusiasts meet nig of the W.C.T.U. Cradle Roll members was held, with the President. Miss Bishop In the chair. Apologies wen received from a number of mothers who were unable to be present. Opportunity w*s also taken of Introducing the new Cradle Roil Superintendent, Mrs E S. Andrews, ns successor to Mias Wnlker. An interesting address was then given by Plunket Nurse Dunlop, Tlmaru, on the Evils of Alcohol ns seen from a physical and moral point. Bhe w f as also able to speak from her owm personal experience of the amount of poverty and distress to be seen in her own district, as the result of over-indulgence In alcohol. Mrs Felton. In a few well-chosen words, proposed a hearty vote of thanks, which w’as carried by acclamation. Musical Items were given by the Misses Bishop and Botherway. and Miss M Smith also gave a recitation. After a delicious afternoon tea, a group photograph was taken hv Miss Nellson. of the sturdy young New Zealanders present. NORMANBY. Mur. Id. Home meeting held at the residence of Mrs R. Clement Good attendance of members. Mrs Be van presided. Correspondence read from Mrs Thrdsall. acknow edging donation to Willard Home. Resolved to support petition to Parliament re two issue ballot. The present Dominion OfPlcera w ith Mlsm Hirss taking place of Mrs Bondely, have the unanimous support of our Union. Subscription taken up towards delegate’s expenses. Paper rend entitled "Drunken Tim" showing downfall of a promising young man through drink. A heartv vote of thanks passed to the Hostess for her kind lerspltality. canvastown Mar. 2d. Mrs Murray presided over a fair attendance. Hymn, prayer, and affiliation of pledges, Decided that Mrs Origg. President Blenheim Union, he Invited to address us at next meeting. April 23rd. this I»elnr the Anniversary of the Union—also to invite Rai Valey and Havelock. The subject of cigarette smoking among young girls was disci used at some length, and the following remit was brought forward by Mrs Flower and seconded bv Mrs Murray, and passed unanimously: That we place on record, our earnest disapproval of the actiosi of one of the ladles ir. the Royal retinue, who, did during the luncheon hour at the Pelorous Bridge, on the occasion of the visit of the Duke and Duchess, openly smoke a cigarette, such an example emnnat«rg from such a quarter, being likely to have a degrading influence on the plastic minds of our future womanhood. A paper from the Ral Valiev Union was read and greatly appreciated.

Thanks to Rai Valley’s President. Mrs Leov. Five new members were added to the roll. Roll numbers uow 23. Afternoon tea. BEFTON. Mar. 2. Mrs Thorue presided aver fair attendance, Miss McLean leading devotional exercises. ItecideU to semi «u> delegate to Convention. A short article was read, by way of Rcieutitlc Temperance Instruction. Resolutions to be dealt with at Convention were read and discussed. Decided to arrange for speaker for next meeting. Collection taken for Missionary Fund. Mar. 30. Mrs Thorne presided. Good attendance of members and friends. Sister Grace McDonald sang a wo, and then enteruxmed the gathering with a very interesting Life stud> of Dr. E. Blackwell, M.D., the first lady to acquire her degree of medicine. A social tune was spent over afternoon tea. INGLEWOOD. Mar. 17. A pleasant afternoon sp*.«nt at "Knigsdowne,'* the home of our Secretary, Miss Johnson. About to ladies present. An enjoyubie programme of vocal aad instrumental music was rendered by Misses M and G. Lea* li, and M. Beadle and Rev. Boyd. A Guessing Competition was won by Mrs Muiholiand. A dainty afternoon tea was handed round, and with a small Produce Stall, the sum of f 3 11s. was netted for our Local funda Mar. 30. Mrs Simpson presiding. A help ful und instructive address from Mrs Long bottom, made us all feel that we should nil nJM our lives like well-kept g*r blossoming for God’s glory. R ANCHOR A. Mar. 25. Mrs Thwaites preside* 1 over a fair attendance. The Treasurer reported that, owing to the wet weather, the attendance at the "Bring and Huy” Evening was small, l*ut that the sum of £2 10s had been raised. Mrs Thwaites reported that she hud sent two large parcels of second-hand clothing to Mrs Williams, to be used in her work among the poor. The Secretary was requested to send a telegram conveying greetings to tk>nv«ntion. The Scientific Temperance reading for the day was "Safe remedies in illness, as opposed to the use of Alcohol.” LINCOLN AND BPRINOSTON. May 22. Annual meeting, the President, Mrs Kline, being in the chair. After devotiusis, and repeating our pledge, the minutes of the last Annual Meeting were read and confirmed. All the office-bearers were re-elected for the third year in succession. Mrs Parker, a Vice-President, read a most interesting paper osi "Tre Grace of Appreciation," by Dr. Geo. Morrison, from tlie words of the text ”Bhe hath done what she could,’’ Mark xlv. 8. Mrs Parker was warmly thanked for the paper, which was much enjoyed—as this was her last appearance amoaig us, Mrs Parker and Miss Parker were accorded a fond farewell, and much regret was expressed at their departure to Cambridge, N. 1. Votes of sympathy were passed with two of our members, who hud suffered bereavement since we last met. FENCOURT. Mar. Ift Mrs Simpson presided over a fair attendance. The Treasurer gave a financial statement, showing a small balance in l.and. President read an Interesting paper on the -peech by the llishop of London, relating to ♦lie Drink Question. It was moved mi*l seconded that the delegate be given a freehand on all remits brought up at Convention, also to vote for the two Issue ballot patter. A vote of thanks was passed to Mrs A Beer, for providing a “Tennis Day” at h-ir residence, In aid of the Fern our t W.C.T.U. Organising Fund. It was voted a grew* success by all. We are greatly Indebted to Mrs James, District President, for attending on that day, and for the splendid address she gave on the work of the W.C.T.U. All visitors present were greatly interested, and we are hoping for many new members In the near future. A collection was taken up on the ‘Tennis Day,” amounting to £2.

BRIGHTON. Mar. 17. Mrs H. Hall presided, and ther was a good attendance of memlx-rs Mis B. Harband took "The effect of Alcohol oi the Brain,’’ as the subject for her ten-mlnut talk. The matter of nomtnatlrg two mem hers as candidates for the School Committe* was fully dealt with, and Mesdame* .1 Bellamy and M. Moses were the nominees The resolutions which will bo brought forward at the IVmitaion Convention were discussed, and the delegate instructed how t< vote on these questions. lierided to purchase a doxen and a half extra copies of the Convention number of the "White Ribbon.” W INTON. Mar. 15. Executive meeting held at 2.3( pm., followed by the general meeting at 3 pm. This meeting was pres'de.l over at the request of the Local President, by MM Fairbairn, District President, who. accompanied by several ladies. Journeyed from Invercargill to be present. A large attendance of members and friends welcomed them, and much enjoyed and appreciated the address given by Mrs Fairbairn, taken fmm St. Matthew’s Gospel, 9th chapter and 36th verse, embracing the call to workers and the need of unity. At the close of the address, a hearty vote of thanks was arcord-j ed Mrs Fairbairn. Miss Pirns was elected to represent us at the Convention, to he held In tuekbmd. A number of remits from th« Southland Rmw li were brought forward and freeiv discussed chief nr ong these being the Universal Pension Scheme and the two issue ballot paper. A point of Interest also, was the work of the Willard Home in Palmerston North, ami also the source of n part of Its Income, which the members decided was inconsistent with our principles. This meeting was a hearty one, ami should he;tr good fruit. A delirious afternoon tea provided by several members and friends, helped to make the afternoon the success it CARTERTON Apr. ft. Mrs Tyler presided, small ntten dance. Meeting was opened In the usual wav. Decided to send a wreath on Atisuu Day to the Memorial Square from the Union Several motions of sympathy were passed to members who are ill. As the parcel of magazines, books, etc., which were conveyed to the working men’s Camp on the Rimu taka llnad by service car, were much appreciated hist month, another parcel was sent Inst Wednesday. Proposed that Miss Oates, of Grevtown. be asked to be the sjienker for Xpril 29th Mrs Tyler read some very Interesting extract* from our pnper “The White Ribbon." Afternoon tea wns served. . KUMRU (Auckland District.) \pr 11. At a meeting held In the Public Hall, Miss C. M McLay, Organiser, formed a nev Union. After praver nsid the reading of the Crusade Psalm, Miss McLay gave a brief account of the eveaits which led to the formation of the W C T.U., of the grow th of the work and its aims and objects, emphasising Its worldwide importance and mission Blie referred to the undoubted success of Prohibition in America, and to the wound educational foundation laid In that eountrv bv Frances K. Willard and the W.C T.U. In bvgone years. The T’-tlt'nn from the wotm-i electors In support of a Two-Issue Ballot Paper was explained, and an appeal made for workers. A deep Interest was show n In al Itlie work. Eight members were snit'ate*! and the following officers elected:—Pres I - dnt. Mrs Poord, Kumeu; Secretary. Mr Ituninrins. Kumeu: Treasurer. Mrs lfodson Kumeu; White Ribbon Vgent. Mils* M. K Ba rnea. OPOTIK I. Mar Ift. "Pay Up" fkr ial: Mrs Thompsm nresid*-d in her usual capable manner, «n*i conducted the afternoon in a bright an*! happy stvle from start to finish. Competitions were provided hv Mrs Burton, rmisica' item* bv Mondame* Murray, Fleming. Bkue* and Humbly, asid afternoon tea was serve*l bv Mrs Downey. Mrs Abltott. anil Mis Brown. Secretaries for the "Pav Up" w'er* kept husv, and a very fine meeting close' with a good collection, and one new’ sub aeriher for White Ribbon. Next meetlnr will receive Delegate's address from Don ventlon.

RAKAIA. Mar. S. Mrs Hoag presided over good attendance ot member*. Mrs riaunder* up-poiutt-d Treasurer. A *ub-Coiuimtte«i to get HUbHcription* for tlte “TV bite Ribbon" wjw formed. Mrs Merry, of Christchurch, gave a very Interesting talk on tlie work of the “HritiHh Bailor's society,” and »aa accorded a hearty vote of thanks. Afternoon tea »u* nerved. WANGANUI EAST. Mar. Mr* Codd led the devotional exercises, and gave a very helpful address, bettir of thunk* and acknowledgment from Mr* Mirdaall for parrel* of clothing wm to Willard Home. M.*■ Sainaou and Mr* Hopkirk delegate* to Conventicsi- A very due paper wan read hy Air* Wilson, a recent arrival from Scotland, on 'Tenipcruuce work in Hoot land.” It wa* interesting and encourugmg to know how the “dry area*” Itave increased —some hy the ruling of the people, other* hy the order* of the landlouls. It waa stated that no parish had returned to a “liquor area" after once having been “dry” Numerous remits from the Ikuniinon Executive were ducuswil ami Instruction* given to the delegates. Small *um* were voted to the White Ribbon and Cradle Roll Superintendent*, and to (lie Recording Secretary. OAMARU. Fib. 14. Mr* Clarke, President, guve a short talk on the need of stead fust ness in the work of the new year just com* nienn ing. citing the example of France* Willard, whose Memorial Day was observed in February. Decided to form all present into a Committee to obtain subscribers to White Ribbon. Tim remit from Auckland IbMtrict to Dominion Convention re a Petition for Two i*.-ue Hal lot Paper wa* <<>niddei ed. Mr* Mnltatt, cf Rangtora, wa* present, bringing greetings from her Union, which were heartily reciprocated. Mar. 14. Small attendance. Tin* report of the Market in aid ot Union Fund*, held on March Stli, showed that £4 I.ls. liail heesi raised, tin* expense* being 4*. The expense of sending a delegate to Auckland was considered to In? too great. *o it w as reluctantly decided that no delegate should be sent. Ihs.uHsion on the best way of oi gnnismg Hand of Ho|ie work occupied moat of the time. 1 icchied to consult tlie Ministers’ Association before dual pluns were made. AUCKLAND. Mar. 15. Opening meeting of 1927; Mrs rook presided, good gathering. Miss Peul, Evangelistic Superintendent, gave an inspiring New Year message; subject, "God our I>welling Place.'* Balance Sheet was presented, which showed ft satisfactory year. Meadatnes Taylor. Fulljaiues, and Mis* N IVwar, were appointed delegate* to the iHmiinion (Convention. The resolution* to be discuaeed were brought before the members. Mead a me* (V>ok and Rosser were appointed delegates to the Executive of the Bible-ln-ftchoolfl rampfttgn league. Mr* Full James reported 250 gannent* had been sent to the Maoris, and letters of appreciation and thanks were received from Sister Nichols. The Onehunga Union wrote a very nice letter to Mrs Full James, appreciating the good work she had done for thp Maoris, and enclonlng a donation to help on the work. Mrs Fulljanies said she would be grateful for any small donations In money, as It defrayed the cost of freight on the railway for the parrels. Mrs Cook, who had Just returned from tlx* Convention of tin* National (Ynrurll of Women In Christchurch, spoke of the successful meeting*, and gave item* <»f interest from that gathering. MANAIA. Feb. Mr* Robinson presiding, eight members prewmt. An Invitation was received from the Haw era W.C.T.F. to attend n social afternoon meeting at Mrs Corey's, on Millard l*av. A letter from Mi** Henderson was rend, a decision following to send delegate to Auckland Convention If funds allow. Heckled that each member make a child's garment monthly, for a Stall at the Mothers meeting to be held in April, the proceed* of the shall to be divided between the Cradle Roll and the Union fund*. The President and the Secretary reported a round of vislt-

ing, several promises of new member*. One new member received. The Preesident gave a very interesting address tai the experience* she had seen .relating to the use of alcohol, in visiting a mental hospital iu the East End of London. Mar. The President, Mrs Robinson, thanked Mrs lialluiityutf for a list of Biblical references to Tempeiance. Correspondence then dealt with, consisting of a letter of tnanks from Mr D. E. Scott for the respect shown to the memory of his late wife, the former President; and one from Mr J. J. Patterson, enclosing a small cheque towards the funds. After details relating to financial position, which under Mrs Robinson show* distinct improvement, it wa* decided to ask Mrs Phillips, the District Superintendent, to represent Manats at the Convention in Auckland, and that iu place of sending a separate delegate there, M.maia should try to attend solidly at the District Convention in liawera in June. Re woman member on tin* ensuing School Committee, it was agreed not piactieable to suggest any. but to keep m definite touch with the honorary membei *, in relation to any suggestions the Union wishes to make re school affairs. As the Head master had been unable to obtain Tempera vee Wall Sheets last year, It w as decided to ask if they were obtainable now, ami to offer a gum the prize for an essay on their contents, which last year could not be entered for. Enquiries were made about the representation of the Union on the Committees of Local (todies, considering the need tor prohibition majority, whenever |M»s*ible, in social activities. The President reported sending White Ribbons and Vanguards to the New Plymouth Priaou, in response to a request for literature. She reported a round of visiting with the secretary, and a promise of eight new members. Derided to send copies of the two Temperance papers monthly to the second Hospital, the first already receiving them. Work for the month was agreed to I*} concentrated on preparation for a social Mothers’ Afternoon meeting, the date to he settled to suit Sister Nellie’s coaivenience. when sin* wa* naked to give an address; ail official invitation to he giveu to the Anglican Clergyman newly arrived. HAMILTON. April 7. Bright meeting, presided over by Mrs Jones, 16 ladies present. Mrs Craig gave a comprehensive report of the recent Convention, and the amount of work dealt with in the eight days makes one realise that to be a delegate Is no light matter. Mr* Craig spoke of the proposed W.C.T.U. Headquarters. Women Police, Domestic Courts, Bible In Schools. Military Training. The “White Ribbon” report Is to be given in full on White Ribbon Day. We are indeed proud of our “Cradle Roll." Hamilton headed the list with 197 babies on the rolL Our Cradle Roll Superintendent i* an invalid physically, but she ha* a big heart, and gets through the work with all her materials by her bedside. Mrs Mitchell Is her very energetic assistant. Mrs Jones explained the changing of the Waikato to South Auckland District. A very hearty vote of thanks and appreciation to tlie speaker* Two new members were Initiated at the close of the meeting. TEMPLETON. March. Mrs Clark presided. There was a good attendance, and after the usual business was gone through opportunity was taken to present to Mrs Simpson and Mrs Williams, our outgoing President and Becretary. small tokens of appreciation for the good work they have rendered among us. ITeclded to hold our Band of Hope on the first Thursday In every month. PLEASANT POINT. April. Sympathy expressed to our Maori member, who had lost her baby alnce last meet Hi g. at which It had been present. Little Esther was a member of the Cradle Roll. Mrs Palmer thanked members for avmpathy, for the wreath placed on the grave, and for the Cradle Roll Superintendent’s letter. Regret expressed that our Secretary was still suffering effects of a gig accident; thankfulness that life was spared.

and hopes of seeing her at next mooting with accustomed vigour. President explained aims of the Band of Ho(ie Union for South Canterbury and North Otago, now in process of formation. As it wa* felt our present work would be aided by doing so. it wa* ugr**ed to affiliate. The Treasurer was also instructed to bend affiliation fee to the Secretary of League of Nation* Union. T'niaru. Appreciation of Mr* Felton’* work on the School Committee wa* voiced, ami she consented to stand again. Hit>le m Schools work was explained and distributed. Members were asked to collect HUitablo pieces for Peace Day. Papers were read: Ist. addresses at a Band of Hope meeting in Reading. England, by prviiiclient speaker*; 2nd. a clipping from the Temperance column of “Otago Witness’ dealing with the effect of ali-ohol on the brain. ' OTAHUHU. April 7. Mrs Greenwood, our President. In the chair. Mrs West, our delegate to Convention, gave a very full report of the work done at Convention, and also Ensign Frigusson, of the Otnhuhu Salvation Army, one of our White Ribboners, gave a splendid talk of the work and what she has seen through the drink, the pitiful sights caused through drink. Bhe urged all Temperance workers and Christians to do all in their power to get rid of the drink, after which our President h&a the pleasure of initiating on** new member. PONSONBY. M&rcli 17. Good attendance. Mr* LeeCowie in till* Chair. Mrs Young having Just visited Te Kuitl Union, gave us a greeting from them. A member from Palmerston North Union was welcomed, and spoke a few words in greet.tig. The President, m u little talk, spoke of our success In connection with the cleaning up of the picture poster*, and alsc the deleting of whisky advertisement* Iroin The 2/- stamp booklets. Another interesting Item was related- Mrs Cowls having written to the Duke of York asking if it was true that he had ordered an extra tot of rum be given the sailors when crossing the Line (It having been cabled that he did so), received an answer saying It wa* not so. Three new members were Initiated. Afternoon tea was served. April 7. Good attendance. Two of the delegates from the recent Convention were welcomed, and asked to take a greeting hark to their Union. Mr* Hayr presided. Mrs ORiver. Oor. Bee., read letter re a Convention of N Z. Allianpe to be held on May 21 at. Mi** Read, delegate to the recent Convention, gave her report- Mrs Kasper read a letter saying that a prayer and thanksgiving service would be held on April 11th by the District Executive for the recent Convention. Decided to held a Cradle Roll afternoon on May 3rd Afternoon tea was served. WANOA NT I CENTRA L. April 7. Mrs Goody presided. A vote of avmpathy was passed with the bereaved relatives of the late Mrs Bpurdle. The main Item of Interest was centred on the delegate's report of Convention Great interest was taken In what our delegate had to sav, and the report is to he continued. Our next meeting Is to be Frances Willard Dav. and on May 2nd our united prayer meeting DUNEDIN April 5. Mias Powell (Vice-President) presided over a large attendance Twc new members were welcomed, Mrs Brown (Auckland) and Miss Morgan ("Wanganui). Delegate* to the Band of Hope Executive meeting gave a report of the work done. Mr* Hutton reported on a meeting held at Green Island. Mr* Downing reported on the remit concerning the two-issue ballot paper. wh<ph waa discussed at the National Council Conference recently held at Christchurch After Blight opposition, the remit wa* passed. The chief feature of the *fafternoon was a very Interest Ing nddres* bv Mr* Acutt. of Bristol.

England, who took her hearers with her to her own home town and drew several sad pictures of the conditions amdmrst the women a«nl children in the slums there, all of which were due to the degrading Influence of drink. She also spoke of some of the evils of drink in New Zealand, and of tne fallacy of prescribing stout for nursing mother*. KAIAPOI. April. Pay-up social; the President, Mrs Vickery, in the chair. The resignation of Mrs Stewart as Supt. of the building, was accepted with regret, and we trust that In the near future she would be well enough to take her place among ua again. Resolved to support the nomination from the Mothers* Union for the School Committee. We were then pmtertalned by a short programme of music and elocution. PAPAROA. F« b. 11. Mrs Hames, President, presided, good attendance. Mrs Hames gave a beautiful Illustration on the 4 4th verse of the sth Chapter of St. John’s Gospel. The Treasurer reported a credit balance of fl 10s. Id. at the end of financial year. December 31st. 1925. Correspondence was rend, great Interest was shown regarding the "Two Issue Ballot Paper.*’ The members unanimously decided to support this Petition, each member doing her best to receive signatures in favour of the “Two Issue Pallet Paper." Miss Blacknell continued with the most interesting paper, "Is Prohibition a Success in the United States of America.’* It was suggested that this paper be printed. We are hoping to forward a "copy’* to the White Ribbon Magazine. A duet was rendered by Miss Kaings and Mrs Evans. A hearty vote of thanks was extended to speaker and singers. PALMERSTON NORTH Mar. 11. A vote of sympathy was passed to the Secretary, Mrs Collins, who is at present In a Private Hospital. Mrs Crittenden read a full report of the Convention in Lower llutt. avul received ft vote of thanks. Dr Godfrey gave a splendid address on Medical Alcohol ft* Its ftfTcot* the Hutnnn Body. A hearty vote of thanka was given him for hi* instructive and Interesting talk. After discussing many phases of our work. Mrs Ferguson was chosen delegate for Auckland Convention, and Mrs Cobb was elected Hospital Visitor. WAIMATE Mar. 9 Mrs Roy presided, good attendance. Mrs R R Hurst reported concerning Inquiry re fitting sitting accommodation for girls serving behind counters. While little in this town to complain of from this source, we hear that breaches of the clause in the Factory Act providing that girls may sit down when their health requires it. do exist The same member referred to the good accomplished by the Internat'onal Labour Office of the league of Nations in stinm lating the public conscience and creating n<w f;i it i >rv Acts. Mrs Ensign Whiteh ffl A ) gave an address, "flood Mothers.” most of the facts given therein being taken from her own personal experience as a social worker. This forms another link in the chain of really fine talks given by members and others Arrangements made for addresses by Mrs Bong, and Mrs B H. Low. M.A. Three new members admitted. Social cup of tea followed. BLENHEIM April 5. Mr* Smith presided over meeting of 22 members and friends. Cradle Roll afternoon to be held on 27th April at Methodist Parsonage. Afternoon tea was dispensed, after which Mr* Wilson, delegate to Convention, gave & very Interesting and full report, which was much appreciated hv all. A hearty vote of thanka to Mrs Wilson was carried by acclamation. TAUMARUNUI. April. There was a good attendance of members to hear the Convention report, Mrs Walqwrlght (actlng-Presldcnt) In the chair. The delegate to Convention reported most fully on -natters directly affecting the local Union, leaving other questions for

later discussion Mrs Reed reported two new subscriber a for the "White Ribbon,” amd the successful resumption of the L.T.L. after the summer recea«. GERALDINE. April 5. Mrs Neutze (President) was In the chair, and there were about twenty members present. The Secretary (Mrs F. Wallach) read an Interesting report on the transactions at the recent Convention at Auckland. Songs were given by Mrs Neutze. Mrs Mitcbf’l, and Miss Logan, and afternoon tea was served. Decided to hold future meetings on the second Tuesday of each month, Instead of the flrst, as formerly. TAKAPUNA April 7. Fair attendance, with Mrs Richards ni the chair. Mrs Lee-Cowie gave a few interesting items from Convention. She spoke about the value police women would be a-inong the girls and children. She also ave us an account of the starting of the Willard Home in Palmerston. Its flrst use as a home for the wives of soldiers in the trainings camps, then, when war was over, the turning of the property into a home for children, especially those who were left orphans at the time of the epidemic. Great pleasure eepressed at having Mrs Lee-Cowie back in the homeland and hearing her once more. Afternoon tea was served. FAIRLIE. Annual meeting. Good attendance. Postponed from December. Election of new officers. Mrs Wilcox was re-elected President, Mrs J. Sangster Secretary. Mrs A. C&nunond Treasurer, and Mrs Barwood "White Ribbon” Agent. Secretary's and Treasurer's reports both showsd a successful > ear's work, and keen interest taken in all the seven meetings we have held. The correspondence from Mrs Perym&n was read, and members decided to do their best to get new subspribera Decided to have a social at our next meeting, and ali members endeavour to be present and pay up. A ple&3aot afternoon was brought to a close with afternoon tea. ASHBURTON. April 5. Good attendance, President occupying the chair. Votes of sympathy were passed with Mr Harding and family, Mr and Mrs W. H. Robinson, and Mr and Mrs Harwood, lu their recent bereavements; also with Mesdames Kirk, Enticott, White and Hardy in Illness. The President reported on the meeting of the South Canterbury District, held at Tim am. when it was decided to meet quarterly in future, and to Invite the Orgaxilser for W.C.T.U. to visit South Canterbury early in the year. Leave of absence was granted the Secretary, Mrs H. Hopwood. to visit England, a substitute to be appointed pro tem. Secretary of Pleasant Point Union wrote sta*big that a family, whose names were on the Cradle Roll, were removing to Ashburton. Decided to look them up. Thanks of the Superintendent were accorded those who had given donations or contributions of clothing to the Willard Home. Miss Annie Watson was unanimously appointed *‘W.R.*’ Agent. Congratulations were extended to Miss Trevurxa on reappohitment as New Zealand Press Agent. Rev. R. B. Tinsley was present, and spoke on ‘Touch." Many helpful ideas were gained, and spiritual lessons outlined .through vital touch with God. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mr Tinsley for his inspiring address. Tea was served. GORE. March 29. Mrs Day f^lce-President' occupied the chair. It being Frances Willard Day, a very Interesting paper on her Lfe was read by Mrs Day. A report of the Southland District Union meeting was given by Mrs D. Stevenson. After a formal business discussion, the meeting closed with the Benediction.