The Intelligencer May 31, 1918 (page 2)

“Returned Voluntarily. England, May 11^th. The Editor Daily Intelligencer, Belleville, Ont. Dear Sir:—Some of my friends in France have received word from Belleville, that I was brought back from Canada under escort.

I wish to deny this utterly, as I volunteered to come back to England again, strictly of my own accord. Of course, I do not know who is responsible for starting such a rumor, but I consider it rather a mean and underhanded piece of work, considering that I have been nearly four years in the service, the greater part of which I spent in France. I expect to be going to France again shortly, so if it is not asking too much I wish you would let the people of Belleville know the real facts. I am, Yours sincerely, No. 40465 Gun. H. G. Newton, ‘C’ Battery, Can. Res. Artillery, Whitby Camp, Surrey, Eng.”

The Intelligencer May 31, 1918 (page 3)

“Farmerettes to Stay Despite All Protests. Farmers Who Doubted Their Ability Are Now Wavering in Views. ‘I am actually becoming a good milker—not that I have milked more than three cows as yet, but I am quicker than I was.’ So writes one of the fashionable farmerettes to Miss Hazel Martin, director of the women’s farm department of the Government Employment Bureau. She is working on a mixed farm in Frontenac County. …

That the farmers who have not tried out the so-called farmerettes, are still rather dubious, is a known fact, but it is also seen that they are ‘coming around.’ …  Worried fathers invade the offices every now and again to find out what on earth those ‘crazy daughters of theirs’ are trying to do anyway.

The farmers’ wives seem to favor the farmerettes from the start, however, even though their better half is opposed. After a great deal of family controversy on one farm as to whether a farmerette should be employed, the farmer gave his consent. In telephoning to the employment department asking for one, the wife said to Miss Martin, ‘Now please whatever you do, send me a girl that my husband won’t be able to say, “I told you so,” about.’

And so it goes, but still the farmerettes seem to be here to stay.”

The Intelligencer May 31, 1918 (page 4)

“Belleville’s Biggest Day, June 3^rd. Spend the Best Day of Your Life the Guest of Canada’s Heroes on Monday!

Two Spectacular Street Parades 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. A Big Card of Athletic Events. Star Baseball Game, Belleville vs. Picton. Help Make June 3^rd Belleville’s Biggest and Best Day. Many Thrilling Novelty Features Worth going miles to see.

Hastings’ and Prince Edward’s Great War Veterans’ First Annual Re-union, King’s Birthday.”

The Intelligencer May 31, 1918 (page 7)

“For the Soldiers of the King. The Great War Veterans’ Celebration Committee are anxious to have the city in gala attire Monday, particularly they ask the merchants along Front and Bridge Streets to decorate properly, and thus create an atmosphere of real patriotism. Let every business house and every home hang out every flag and every piece of bunting obtainable, and show visitors that Belleville is thoroughly wide awake and progressive.”

 

 

The Intelligencer May 30, 1918 (page 3)

“A Banner Day For Belleville June 3^rd. Two Monster Street Parades Will Inaugurate Proceedings Kings Birthday. ‘All aboard for Belleville June 3^rd’ seems to be the slogan the surrounding towns and communities have adopted, and they are coming to witness and take part in the biggest and best celebration ever held in Belleville.

There will be something doing every minute from the time the first monster parade leaves the market square at 11 o’clock in the morning until the curtain rings down on the final act of ‘The Girl From Kokomo,’ which is to be repeated in the Griffin Opera House Monday night in aid of The Great War Veterans. It will be the day of all days for Belleville, and every home and business house should be decorated. Hang out all the flags and bunting you have and put our city in gala attire on ‘Belleville’s Biggest Day.’

Those who are participating in the morning parade should be at the market square at 10.30, so that it can start prompt at 11 o’clock.”

The Intelligencer May 30, 1918 (page 4)

“By Request Of, And In Aid Of The Great War Veterans.

The Two Act Musical Farce ‘The Girl From Kokomo’ Will be Repeated at Griffin’s Opera House, Monday Evening, June 3^rd.

This will be positively the last chance to see this successful Musical Comedy. Prices—$1, 75¢ 50¢, 25¢. Seat Sale opens at Doyle’s Drug Store Saturday Morning, June 1^st.”

 

The Intelligencer May 29, 1918 (page 1)

“ ‘The Girl From Kokomo’ Made A Big Hit At Griffin’s Theatre. Amateur dramatic performances always have a certain attractiveness on account of the novelty of recognizing familiar faces in unfamiliar roles, while dramatic talent is not expected to materialize to any great extent in productions of this kind. However, a departure from this general rule was witnessed last evening in the presentation of ‘The Girl from Kokomo,’ by local amateurs at Griffin’s Theatre under the auspices of Argyle Chapter, I.O.D.E. The production was admirably staged and presented in a smooth and finished manner, which ranked well with any first-night professional production. …

Beautiful bouquets of flowers were handed across the footlights to the lady principals during the progress of the play. When the curtain arose every seat in the theatre was filled, and from beginning to end laughter and applause was continuous. …

‘The Girl from Kokomo’ will be repeated Monday evening at Griffin’s in connection with the King’s Birthday celebration of the Great War Veterans.”

The Intelligencer May 29, 1918 (page 4)

“Spend June 3^rd the Guests of Canada’s Heroes. A Military Carnival You’ll Never Forget! The Fastest Horse Races Ever Seen on the Belleville Track. Big Card of Athletic Events and Baseball Game.

Come and Spend the Biggest Day of Your Life—Monday, June 3^rd.

Make June 3^rd, Belleville’s Biggest Day.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 4)

“All Roads Lead to Belleville Monday. Monday, the King’s Birthday, is a fitting day for the Great War Veterans to celebrate and the occasion is most appropriate for all good citizens to show by their presence and patronage that they appreciate the great sacrifices the soldiers are making in order to protect the homes of Canada from the savagery of the Hun.

The Veterans are the hosts next Monday and have prepared excellent entertainment of a military and civic nature for the many visitors from far and near and the home folks as well. The success of Monday’s celebration means much to the soldiers. Let everybody lend a hand and make it the biggest day ever held in Belleville. Let’s clean and tidy up our streets and homes and when the day arrives throw all our flags and bunting to the breeze as a token of welcome to the visitors and appreciation of the Great War Veterans. All roads lead to Belleville Monday, so come early and stay late.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 6)

“Government Fish. The First Government Fish Will Arrive Wednesday, May 29^th. This stock will be the very finest from Lake Nipissing, the coolest and best fish producing lake in Canada. R. Oliphant & Son, 44 Bridge Street. Phone 910.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 7)

“Shipment for Overseas. The Myrehall Red Cross met at the home of Mrs. W. Alford, on May 9^th, nineteen members being present, and sent the following to Foxboro: 58 towels, 14 nightshirts, 17 pairs of socks, 2 day shirts, 2 quilts, 13 suits of pyjamas, check for $15.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 7)

“A Pleased Soldier. It is very gratifying to receive from one of our gallant soldiers who is fighting for us at the front, such a grateful response as the following, received, by Mrs. (Dr.) Farley, which speaks for itself:

France, May 8, 1918. Dear Mrs. Farley:—I take this opportunity to thank you exceedingly for the gift of tobacco and cigarettes. The feeling it conveys to a soldier in the field to know that he is thought of by some kind thoughtful unknown friend, gives him heart to carry on in this great fight for mankind. I am not acquainted with Canada beyond Camp Borden, where I did my training, having lived in New York for many years. However, I am a Britisher and have been in France nearly a year, and have seen a good deal of the battle fronts. Thanking you again, I remain, Yours sincerely, Frank Kennedy.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 7)

“Full Coal Supplies. Citizens Should Place Orders Now for Normal Supply. Having consulted with all the Coal Dealers in the City of Belleville with a view to ascertaining the quantity of coal the various dealers have received during the present season so far, and the quantity likely to be received during the balance of the season, I have satisfied myself that the dealers have done exceedingly well in regard to the quantity of coal already in and arranged for, and it is my opinion that the Fuel Controller’s restriction to 70 per cent deliveries be waived in Belleville, and as the Fuel Controller’s regulations leave this matter to the local Commissioner’s discretion, I would advise all parties to purchase their full normal coal supply from the dealers, as early as possible, and I do hereby waive the clause in the regulations restricting deliveries to 70 per cent, for the present.

I would also draw the attention of prospective purchasers of car load lots to the necessity of purchasing a license from the Fuel Controller at Ottawa which can be obtained for the sum of twenty-five ($25.00) dollars, the penalty for non-observance being a fine of one thousand ($1,000) dollars. Thos. F. Wills, Local Fuel Commissioner, Belleville, Ont., May 27, 1918.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 7)

“June 3^rd Event to be Brilliant Success. Live Interest Being Taken For Miles Around In Veterans Big Celebration On King’s Birthday.

The Great War Veterans’ determination to make their first annual re-union ‘Belleville’s Biggest Day’ seems well to meet with complete success, for reports from all the surrounding districts and towns  state that the great majority of the populace will migrate to Belleville on that day. Last evening the entertainment committee brought in its final programme, and one would marvel that such a festival of real genuine fun and sport could be crammed into one day. Something doing every minute, seems to have been the slogan of this committee. Horsemen from all over Ontario are taking keen interest in the racing events and the fastest races ever seen on the local track are assured. Spend the biggest day of your life with Canada’s heroes.”

The Intelligencer May 28, 1918 (page 8)

“Tonight’s the Night Girl from Kokomo. ‘The Girl from Kokomo’ is all set for tonight. Nothing further can be done to add to the success of the performance. …  Cadet Gault, of Camp Mohawk, one of Canada’s leading violinists has kindly consented to assist the orchestra and accompanists. To hear Cadet Gault play the violin is worth the price of admission alone. Cadet Roberts who is in Belleville convalescing after an accident at Leaside Camp, will also assist with his guitar and banjo. Cadet Roberts and Cadet Gault have both been heard here before with the Camp Mohawk Pierrots last season, and those who heard them then will appreciate what a wonderful addition they will be to the production. The Argyle Chapter I.O.D.E. are indeed fortunate in securing their services.

The sale of seats has been very heavy but there are 200 rush seats that will not be put on sale until 7.30 p.m. at the theatre. The price of these seats will be only 25¢, and there is no war tax to pay. There will be also a few good reserved seats left which can be secured at Doyle’s Drug Store until 6 p.m. and at 7.30 p.m. at the theatre. Don’t miss the season’s best attraction.”

The Intelligencer May 27, 1918 (page 2)

“Canada’s Veteran Fighting Forces in Grand Military Manoeuvers By Land and Air. Belleville Monday, June 3^rd.

Athletic Events, Bicycle Races, Baseball Match, Spectacular Street Parade, And many Other Novel Features. Spend the Day with Canada’s Heroes and have the time of your life!”

The Intelligencer May 27, 1918 (page 7)

“Provided Potatoes for Planting. The school children of the city responded to a request for the providing of potatoes for planting of ground in connection with the Children’s Shelter premises. The result of the contribution was that more potatoes were received than were required , but they will not be amiss as a considerable quantity is used daily at the institution.”

The Intelligencer May 27, 1918 (page 8)

“Military News. The King’s birthday is to be celebrated on the actual date this year, namely, the 3^rd June. His Majesty desires that in the matter of ceremonial observance the precedent of last year shall be strictly followed in all respects. No salutes, reviews, dinners or other celebration are to take place.”

 

The Intelligencer May 25, 1918 (page 7)

“Unveiling of Honor Roll. The unveiling of a large honor roll with 27 names of Salvation Army bandsmen, soldiers and adherents was conducted at the S. A. citadel in this city last night. Several S. A. officers including Capt. and Mrs. Renouf of Trenton, Capt. Kitt and Lieut. York were present. Adjt. Trickey, who had charge of the proceedings called upon Lieut. Peddleadan to give out and open this service with a rousing song. …

Adjt. Trickey referred to the fact that the Salvation Army now had 163 huts at the front, 39 chaplains in active service, and 32 motor ambulances. It will be interesting to the public to know also that there are 68 hostels for soldiers, 200 rest rooms on all fronts, 15 naval and military homes, 40 communal kitchens and 704 war service workers. …

As Miss M. B. Falkiner, well known for her patriotic work, unveiled the roll the audience sang the National Anthem. A splendid tribute was paid by Miss Falkiner to the men who had gone and the two men who had paid the supreme sacrifice. Her stirring address made a marked impression. The citadel was tastefully decorated with flags and flowers, also several large framed photographs of the ‘boys.’ Capt. Harrison closed with the benediction.”

The Intelligencer May 25. 1918 (page 13)

“The Canadian Bankers’ Association Invites the Co-Operation of the Public on Behalf of the Banks.

Staffs Heavily Reduced by War. More than half the men in the banks of Canada are now on military service, and the number which remains is being steadily reduced. Women clerks have been employed in thousands and have done splendidly, but they have not the experience of the men they replace. It would be out of the question to expect them to work as rapidly or with the same knowledge of banking as officers of many years training in the profession.

The drain upon the number of experienced officers has now reached a point where it is necessary to ask the public to take into consideration this decrease in efficiency, and to lighten, as far as they can, the burden thus thrown upon those left to run the business. Canada was never so busy as now and the volume of banking business is greater than ever before.

Change in Banking Hours June 1^st. On and after June 1^st banking hours will be: 9.30 to 2.30; Saturdays 9.30 to 12.00. This arrangement will give the staff more time to complete the large amount of work which cannot be taken up until after the office is closed to the public.

On July 1^st banks will discontinue receiving payments for tax bills and the bills of gas, electric and other public service corporations.

The banks desire to render all essential services including many special ones arising out of the war. In order to do this they make this appeal for co-operation in the manner suggested above.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 1)

“Socks for Soldiers. The Canadian War Contingent Association gave a dance last evening in Bennett’s Academy, Front Street, to procure money for war purposes. Miss E. Ryan furnished the music for the evening. The academy was prettily decorated for the occasion with spring flowers. A dainty luncheon was served to the many who attended, including a number of cadets of the R.A.F. and many out of town people. Dancing was continued until the small hours.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 3)

“Monday June 3^rd Is Belleville’s Big Day. For no demonstration in years have such extensive plans and preparations been made as the one the Great War Veterans are arranging for the King’s birthday. There is to be a real old time crowd, that fact is assured both by the keen interest taken by the committee in charge and the people throughout the surrounding counties. Belleville’s war heroes are sparing no effort to make their first annual reunion an event that will do themselves and Belleville credit. Every man, woman and child should start now to help the boys by boosting the big 3^rd of June event.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 3)

“Bombardier Ingram’s Injuries Not Serious. Mrs. Ingram has received the following letter from Canadian Red Cross Society, London, England, which shows the efficient manner in which our boys are looked after.

York Hotel, Berners St. W.I. London, May 2. Dear Madam:—I beg to inform you that 89764 Bdr. E. H. Ingram, 18^th Canadian, C.F.A., is now at 3^rd Southern General Hospital, Oxford, England.

Our Red Cross visitor has been to see Bdr. Ingram, and tells us he has slight shrapnel wounds in the face, and that he is getting on well, and able to go out. So we hope that very soon he will be quite convalescent. He will be visited regularly, and should he need comforts, other than those supplied, we will gladly send them to him from our parcel office. (Signed) Yours truly, Kathleen Waring.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 7)

“Holiday War Bulletins. Tomorrow, Victoria Day, being a legal holiday, there will be no issue of The Intelligencer. All important war news will be bulletined morning and afternoon.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 7)

“No Circus This Year. F. C. Knight, local immigration inspector at Brockville, has received a copy of a new regulation stating that spectacular performances such as a circus will not be permitted to enter Canada this year.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 7)

“Auto Show Extended. The motor show in the Armouries will be continued until Saturday night. To-morrow evening a dance will be held in the Armouries in connection with the show. It is interesting to note that the automobiles, bicycles and musical instruments on exhibition have a total value of $45,000.”

The Intelligencer May 23, 1918 (page 7)

“Card of Thanks. The West Belleville War Workers and Victory Club wish to thank all ladies who by their untiring efforts helped to make tag day such a success; also to the gentlemen who so kindly let their automobiles for that occasion. We must also thank the Y. M. C. A. for their courtesy in furnishing us with a room. A word of praise for the Boy Scouts who worked so willingly.

Mr. Elliott of the Standard Bank, donated $5.00 to the day’s takings; Mr. A. E. Bailey, $10.00 which brought in the magnificent sum of $702.00.

Allow us to thank the loyal citizens of Belleville for their generosity.

Gertrude MacMullen, Pres., W.B.W.W.; Eleanor Wells, Sec., W.B.W.W.”

The Intelligencer May 22, 1918 (page 2)

“Address and Presentation. On Tuesday evening May 14^th about eighty of the friends and neighbors assembled at the home of Mr. Simon Elliott, Huntingdon, to bid farewell to his youngest son, Clifford, who is about to don the khaki for King and country. Mr. S. Bird acted as chairman, and after the company had been called to order. The following address was read by Mr. A. Wannamaker:

Holloway, May 14^th, 1918. Dear Clifford:—It is with mingled feelings of pride and sorrow that we, your friends, have gathered here to-night, in order to enjoy a social hour and to show by our presence the respect we have always felt for you. …  We are not here to bid you a long farewell, but to show in some tangible form the high esteem in which you are held and asking you to accept these tokens of our regard, which we trust will always remind you of the many friends in this vicinity. We entrust you to Him who promised to keep, support and defend, when trials overtake and danger is near. Signed on behalf of your friends, old and young. Wesley Wannamaker, Clinton Bird.

Clifford made a suitable reply, expressing his appreciation of the honor they had conferred upon him in presenting to him these gifts: a wrist watch, an Oddfellow’s ring and a fountain pen. After speeches by Mr. L. Robson, E. Bird and others and the singing of, ‘We’ll Never let the Old Flag Fail,’ lunch was served, and a social evening spent, after which the company dispersed to their homes.”

The Intelligencer May 22, 1918 (page 2)

“Born in Canada But Not a Canadian. The action of the Dominion Police in taking a local Chinaman in charge as a defaulter has created some discussion in legal circles in the city and it is very likely that some further action will follow. It is pointed out that although the Chinaman was born in Canada, he is not a British subject and was not naturalized. There are several Chinamen in the city who were born in Canada, but that fact it is said, does not make them Canadian citizens, and hence they are not liable to the Military Service Act. It is understood that the Chinamen of the city are placing the matter in the hands of a lawyer.”

The Intelligencer May 22, 1918 (page 3)

“Boost! Boost! Boost! The Great War Veterans’ First Re-union and Celebration June 3^rd Belleville.

Grand Military Carnival. Horse Races, Baseball Match. And many Other Special Features to be announced later.”

The Intelligencer May 22, 1918 (page 7)

“While ‘The Girl From Kokomo’ is being presented by the Argyle Chapter, Daughters of the Empire, at Griffin’s Opera House on next Tuesday evening, May 28^th for a worthy cause, that is, to buy wool for the soldiers’ socks, and anyone attending will be doing their little bit to help this most necessary work, the appeal for attendance can be made strictly on the merits of the comedy and the excellence of the presenting cast. …  The electrical effects are being carefully looked after, and the scenery and costumes will be charming to the eye.

The seats will go on sale at 9 o’clock tomorrow, Thursday morning at Doyle’s Drug Store, and as there will be a rush for seats, those who come first will get the best selection. The prices are $1.00, 75, 50 and 25¢.”

The Intelligencer May 22, 1918 (page 7)

“Y. M. C. A. Minstrel Show. Last evening in the City Hall a minstrel and vaudeville performance was put on by the Y. M. C. A. amateurs. The minstrels were for the most part teachers of the Ontario School for the Deaf. Although this is the second time this show has been witnessed by a Belleville audience the hall was filled and the event proved very successful. The proceeds will be used for patriotic purposes.”

The Intelligencer May 21, 1918 (page 2)

“Thrift Exhibited In Penny Banks. Penny Bank depositors have the reputation of being most patriotic savers and are in a large measure living up to the injunction issued last year, ‘Do not draw out until you need the money more than your country does.’

The children of a certain Indian reserve in Ontario have lived up to the letter of this injunction, and have never drawn a cent of their money for the last twelve months. The bank authorities were so much concerned about the strict observance of their suggestion that they wrote to the school teacher in charge of the Penny Bank on the reserve asking her if there was any misunderstanding. The teacher replied that the children quite realized that their deposits were available at any time, but that they were endeavoring to follow the advice to leave the money in the bank until they needed it more than their country did.”

The Intelligencer May 21, 1918 (page 2)

“Farm Soldiers. Seeing Mr. P. F. Brockel, Secretary of the Belleville Y.M.C.A. running around in a Ford car one might imagine that there was money in the Y. M. C. A. business. However, the car and Mr. Brockel just signify the desire of the Ontario Government that Mr. Brockel be given every facility to cover quickly the six counties allotted to him—his territory in connection with the Soldier of the Soil movement in national service.

The Soldier of the Soil, organized by the Ontario Government to help the farmers is operated under the auspices of the Y. M. C. A. National Council for Boys Work, and nearly one hundred boys have enlisted for farm work from the schools of Belleville and vicinity. The province is divided into districts with a Y.M.C.A. man in charge of each who will work in co-operation with the farmers needing farm labor and keep in touch with the boys working on the farms. Each Y.M.C.A. supervisor is supplied with a Ford car to enable him to look after his district efficiently.

Special examinations were held on April 20 for teen-age boys from the fourth book up and all boys taking high enough standing were permitted to enlist in the Soldiers of the Soil; reporting for farm duty by May 20, and upon giving three months farm service to be given their standing upon return to school. The boys completing their national service on the farms will be decorated with the National Badge of Honor, which is a neat bronze emblem surmounted by a beaver, sheaf of wheat centre and surrounded by scroll work inscribed as follows: ‘Canada Food Board.’ ‘Soldiers of the Soil.’ As a variation to farm life the Y.M.C.A. will provide entertainment of various kinds, picnics, etc., so that all work and no play will not make Jack a dull boy.”

The Intelligencer May 21, 1918 (page 4)

“Mother’s Love on the Battlefield. ‘Mother’s Day’ in Canada has not the deep significance which attaches to this very worthy tribute to the love, which only a mother can inspire, among the soldiers on the firing line. Mother’s Day was fittingly observed by the soldiers in France on May 12; Y.M.C.A. officers being prominent in the movement. One hundred and fifty thousand specially printed sheets of notepaper were supplied the soldiers, besides twenty-five thousand special cards bearing a message to Canadian mothers. That message, which expresses the unalterable determination of the soldiers of Canada to prosecute the war until victory is secured reads in part:

The Gift of Freedom. ‘It is really you, our mothers and our homes, for whom we are fighting. When the gift of freedom is ours then we will come home and lay it reverently at your feet, for it will be hallowed by the blood of many comrades. Then we shall devote our lives to service in our country, in the upbuilding of happy homes and noble citizenship. Pray for us that this high and holy vision may be ours—that we may be given courage and patience to finish our task. What a glorious home-coming there will be! Till then we remain where we are, fighting for our mothers and homes.”

The Intelligencer May 21, 1918 (page 6)

“Some Big Event For Veterans Celebration. Grand Military Carnival For June 3^rd Promises To Be a Huge Success. Some startling announcements of novel events for Belleville’s Big Day are assured in a very few days. Two members of the entertainment committee left to-day for Toronto, where they expect to make final arrangements for some big special features that are sure to put the first Great War Veterans’ Reunion of this district, a huge success. Watch the local papers for special announcement in the very near future.”

The Intelligencer May 20, 1918 (page 2)

“Belleville Women Knit Weekly in ‘Rainbow Circles’. Twenty Circles, With Twenty Members in Each, Turn Out 1,000 Socks Monthly—A Model Organization Started Just After The War Broke. (Toronto Star Weekly)

In the first month after war was declared, Belleville women organized their ‘Rainbow Circles.’ They have twenty of them with twenty women in each. A few circles are made up of young, unmarried women, and the others of married women. Each circle has its own particular color. When a pair of socks is completed it is marked with the Circle color and all are handed to the Convenor, who in turn passes them on to the Red Cross Society. The mark of the Circle color gives the convenor a chance to tally up and see which Circle has done its duty for the week or month. Each woman is supposed to complete at least one pair of socks a week. The combined Circles’ work always tally up over 1,000 pairs a month.

Lately they have taken to having some of the ‘legs’ knitted by a machine, and the Circle women hand-knit the feet. So to each meeting the convenor comes with a supply of ‘legs’ and a big quantity of wool. The legs they have knitted by a woman who has a machine in her home and is glad to do it for 10 cents a pair. She does her ‘bit’ by her low charge.

Each circle meets once a week at the home of some members from 2 to 5.30 o’clock, so they get in a good bit of knitting during that time. There is no law against talking while the knitting is going on! Then of course, the knitting is taken home and worked at there. Towards the close of this weekly knitting party a cup of tea is served with a slice or two of bread and butter or biscuits. The rules about the ‘eats’ are very strict, and no one is allowed to go beyond this simple menu, for the Rainbow Circles are out to do business and comprise intelligent, patriotic women. If any of the members live in apartments or board and cannot thus take their turn at entertaining their circle they are allowed ‘the privilege’ of paying in a dollar or so instead.

Each member pays a 10-cent weekly fee, which helps to buy wool. The younger circles, however, pay a 10-cent monthly fee. (They are daughters of those belonging to older circles.)

The ‘Rainbows’ had no difficulty in raising the wherewithal to buy wool. One of their fetes was on a big scale and held in the Armouries. At this each circle had its own booth decorated in colors of its circle, and sold whatever that circle saw fit to sell. Then they have ‘showers’ for the boys’ Christmas boxes. And hope when ‘the boys come home’ to give them some kind of a big celebration.

‘Everything goes on without the slightest friction. We never have any quarreling, and we’ve just accomplished wonders,’ said an enthusiastic member. ‘Then it’s got the women acquainted with each other drawn some ‘out of their shells’ and helped keep them from feeling so blue over the war—for our weekly gatherings are so friendly and nice.’

No doubt a great deal of the success of these circles is due to the promoter and originator of the Rainbow Circle idea, Mrs. (Dr.) Yeomans—she is the head convenor. Mrs. Yeomans has thrown herself heart and soul into the work. Her two sons were amongst the first (and youngest) Belleville boys to enlist for overseas service. One of them is now a prisoner in Germany, the other killed in action.”

The Intelligencer May 20, 1918 (page 3)

“All Must Carry Papers in June To Avoid Arrest. A far reaching amendment to the Military Service Act that covers every man in Toronto and throughout the Dominion, under the order-in-Council passed on April 30, has been received by C. Leslie Wilson, Military registrar.

The order states that, beginning June 1, all persons who claim not to be in Class One under the Military Service Act must carry papers at all times with the proper certificates of proof that they do not come within Class One. The identification papers must either be a birth certificate or a marriage license. The act previously covered only the men of Class One and has now been stretched to take in all classes.”

The Intelligencer May 20, 1918 (page 5)

“Successful Tag Day. The War Workers of West Belleville in conjunction with the members of the Victory Club, also of West Belleville on Saturday conducted a successful tag day in the city. During the day and evening many ladies and young women were engaged in disposing of tags. When the boxes were all turned in and counted the amount secured totalled $685.25.”

The Intelligencer May 20, 1918 (page 5)

“Honored Young Soldier. A number of friends and neighbors gathered at the house of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Pound to spend an evening with their son Harry, who has been called to military duty. The following address was read by Rev. Mr. McMullen, while Mr. S. Heene presented Harry with a wrist watch.

Canifton, May 13^th, 1918. Dear Harry:—We, a few of your many friends, knowing that you were about to leave us in response to the call of your country for the defence of our free institutions and for the preservation of justice and liberty for the whole world, feel that we could not allow you to depart from our midst, from the hearts that love you and the dear old home that is devoted to you without in some way expressing to you the very high esteem in which you are held by this dear old community in which you were born and reared. …

As a slight token of the esteem in which you are held by us, we ask you to accept this wrist watch with the assurance that you will ever live in our hearts and prayers.”