Halifax Town (part 1 of 3)

Murdoch Square Superintendent

You will understand that I have no time for extensive correspondence and wrote this one full account on the earnest solicitations of Mr. VanCleve.

C. F. Fraser. K. B - Superintendent

I fully appreciate the importance of having a man take up this work in Halifax who has had experience elsewhere. No definite action has yet "been decided upon hut when it is you will hear from me.

I hear that Dr. Soloan has returned to Truro after his visits to Watertown. New York. Overhrook . Baltii/iore and Washington. I expect he will he with us in the course of a week or two.

Oh! that the American Red cross had carried out the recommendation of its committee to pay the School for the HLind twenty-five thousand I ( ?25»000.00) , dollars. Had this been done we should not have been in such straightened circumstances. What between war prices and the explosion we have had to contend with serious financial difficulties. Chief Justice Ilarris came in to see me one day this week and asked me whether the American Red Cross was likely to do anything for us. i told him that I had no recent information with respect to the Ooriimittee 's report but I still hoped that the recommendation of the Committee with respect to the School for the Blind would be carried out.

Superintendent

Very many thanics for your letter of April/ loth. As I have not heard from you again I presiuae you have not heard from Mr. Burritt with respect to an appointment with Acting Director General of Civilian Relief Deacon. I want to leave Halifax so as to he in Washington on Tuesday, May 6th. where I Shall remain for several days. will you Elndly use the telegraph lines at my expense and telegraph me the result at your earliest convenience. Tnanlclng you for all the trouble you are tahing, i remain.

Very satisfactory interview yesterday Deacon. Writing to you. With solid backing of committee will make recommendations, second - possibly third. Go to New York Wednesday, in Boston Saturday or Sunday.

Murdock Square

You will remember that in April last I paid a visit to Washington to discover, if possible, what had become of the report of the special committee appointed by the Aiaerlcan Red Cross to deal with the special situation in Halifax arising from the exi^loslon. I had several interviews with prominent officials of the Red Cross all of whoia stated that they had never heard of the report of the committee and expressed their intention of looking into the matter most fully and giving me a definite ansv/er without fiirther delay. Among others inteiwiewed were Ilr. Livingston Earrand, ciiaiman of the executive, Hiss Liabel Boardi,ian and the Acting Director. Iirimedlatoly after i left Washington letters were sent otit to the members of the coiiiiiittee tiianking them for what they had done and discharging them from further duty. Personall;/' i did not receive any notice of discharge and after waiting a reasonable time I communicated with Washington and finally received a letter from the chairman of the executive Hr. Livingston Earrand, a copy of which I enclose- herewith. I most fuilj'- appreciate the courteous tone of Itr. Earrand's letter but I mst confess that its contents 'nave proved a titter disappointment to me. I v;ant to titanic you most sincerely for tne time and tnougnt that you Have given tMs matter and for tne kindly interest you nave evinced in tne welfare of tne "blind in tnis section of Canada.

liy attention has been called to the fact that no for/aal coiaiiunication has ever heen sent to you following your visit 'o WasMngton of last spring, regarding the. position of the Red Cross as to t-*9 recoiiiiaendatlons iiiade hy the special coiniaittee on rehabilitation of the blind, appointed by the Director Gener^ of thf?--

0^ the Merican Red Cross shortly after thw ..alii ax disaster. i found, upon calling for the papers in tne case following your visit, that the report of the SuteS had oeen ioade as you stated to xoe and contained certain dir'='ct recoMmendatlons to the Aiaerlcan Red Cross. For reasons whi?h the Red cross co^idepd deterMlnlng at the time, no action wlftakS SvS?nSS?r ®o^ittee but it was heid awaitlS^ liter

C. F. Fraser. K. 8. - Superintendent

I nave your very Kind letter of Deceiaher 22nd for which I heartily thanx you. I thinX your idea of presenting the needs of the nev.'ly blinded in Halifax to such an organisation as the Red dross was an adiiiirabie one and T have no doubt that wMien the facts are placed before trie Red dross authorities they will taXe definite action to ineet conditions in a wliole-hearted way.

T was delighted when Miss Lucy Wright and Hiss llaiaburger reported to we on their arrival in the City that tiiey had been sent by the Red Ci'o.ss to maXe a careful survey or the situation in TMallfax. Sicice tiieir arrival Hiss Wright and i.?r cowTjanion have worxed indefatigabiy and conaiderii.g the short tiiae at their di.sposal have accoiaplished wonders. At the sawe time I thlnX it will be weeXs , if not oT aight in the recent explosion. A nuufcor of tPe yjcopie who were at firat reported blind owing, to their face woundn have aince been found to have .eight in one eye. roliov'-up work \/i.ll have to be very actively taken in hand and v/hat I regard as .still more important, i. nouse to house investigation will have to be made as many of the victims were outpatients and n<^ver entered the hospitals. l still believe that five hundred persons have received injuries to their eyes of imorn it is probable two hundred win be totally blind.

It is a curious fact that nearly all of the blindness occurred v/ith peopi--^ under forty-five .years of age. The women outnumber the men three to one, while the children under t'/i,aty are fairl,y divided betv/een the sexes.

The annual meeting of th» school took place on December idth ond at that meeting a Halifax niind Relief do;iLmitt'ee was appointed. It is a strony^ committ<^e and renpoiuu'oility . Is it an I.upariai one, Canadian, or are all tne Allies interested? It, is tue ^teueral opinion nere that it will Lie a long time berore any governmental assistanoe oeyond contributions to t?ie general relief fund will be received. In the iieantime the blinded babies, homeless, and many of them orphans, claim first attention.

Then again our school population is li'xely to be larg<=>ly increased and as our buildings are alreaay filled to overfioi/iug a neiv building for the acco'imodation of childr/'n will have to be erected. Urgent as are these needs, in igy opinion the most important weric to be taKen up at once is the erection of an industrial home for blind v/omen.

This home would, through its home teachers, be able to reach and to iiiinlster to the needs of a great many v/omen outside of the home itself. I estimate that th" erection of the home and tJie setting aside of a sum sufficient to support the sfuae v/ould involve an expenditure of <30 , Uluj. ud . There are other v/ays in wh.LCh the blinded of Halifax will have to be looKed after but I thinK the home for v/omen v;ouid viay I would strongly recoiiuiend that the matt'er of the hone for woHen be clearly presented to them. ' In any case I hope the Red Gross wi]i act in its usual progressive spirit and v'ili either contribute a lump suit to our hliJid Relief I'Unii or select a specific object such as I iiave indicated, h'iss '.'/right aaid her friend leave for Boston on rainday evening ana they carry \/ith them my heartfelt tnanks and tne tna.i.::- (.f t/ip. frienas of the blind for the splendid, beginning t};ey hav® made in tabulatiig'; the name and fi.Ul particulars of those v-ho have suffeied from the terrible explosion.

Letter From Sir Frederick Fraser

I have already sent you a brief Press Notice dealing particularly with the effects of the explosion upon our school buildings and our school population. Nothing that has been written, telegraphed or said can express to you the horror of the disaste-' of the morning of December 6th. The day was particularly bright and beautiful.

Our school had dispersed after Roll Call and the teachers and pupils were all in their class rooms or at their assigned duties. My wife was reading the morning paper to me when suddenly it seemed that all our buildings were collapsing about our heads. We naturally supposed it was a German shell or' bomb and believed with what thought was left us that others would to! low. With a promptitute that surprises me, and would indicate long and systematic drilling our staff and pupils, headed, by the way, by oiu own cut and bleeding and much frightened little boy, gathered in the basement where all waited for some explanation of the terrible happening. Our little Fred had often heard us discussing the raids on London, and being frightened when off alone in his nursery by the flash of the explosion he fortunately turned and ran, thus saving his life or at least his eyes, for a second later the large window by which he had been standing was shattered into thousands of pieces, and the sashes blown across the room. Fortunately the cuts he received were slight and we have to thank God for his escape. Our staff and pupils were likewise fortunate, only a few minor scratches having been experienced. One teacher had an artery cut in her neck. This record in the face of 800 panes of glass having been instantaneously shattered to atoms and window cases and doors blown in, passes understanding. You can well understand that our escape is due entirely to our being two miles distant from the scene of the accident which was the northern end of our harbour. If we felt it as we did and our buildings were damaged as they have been, you can realize the terrible effect of the explosion upon the north end of the City, where In the twinkling of an eye hundreds of people met death, and thousands of homes were dashed to splinters or blown into the air. The explosion shattered doors and windows in my solidly-built summer home ten miles away, and was felt at a distance of 200 miles from Halifax.

The only way that I can discribe the effect of the explosion is to say that it caused a blizzard of splintered glass and this accompanied by fly'ing shrapr e probably accounts foi" many deaths as well as for the loss of eyesight. I am having a careful Investigation made with respect to the latter and hope that the estimate of 250 who have lost their sight may prove excessive, but I fear not. The explosion created a great tidal wave which swept the docks and drowned many longshoremen and others near the water front who had escaped death by concussion. The last week seems to me like a frightful nightmare.

The harrowing tales of living persons looking for their lost relatives of children without parents, parents without children and so forth ' make one's heart bleed. With it all one is so helpless to do much to assuage the sorrow of the stricken ones.

I have already told you of our emergency hospital for the wounded which was opened in our school rooms within three hours of the accident. Our staff and pupils were simply wonderful in their devotion to the Injured ones, and day and night they worked heroically the good of those about them despite the excessive cold from which they all suffered due to the windowless buildings and a terrible blizzsard from the north east which came on on the evening of the disaster.

If our people suffered imagine the sufferings of the frantic people who were searching the debris of their fallen homes. I have said enough about the horror of the situation and I pray God that I may never have another experience of the kind.

You were right in the conjecture that our accommodation such as it was was freely opened to slielter the homeless, and daily this work goes on while the pupils are gradually being sent to their homes.

Within an hour of the explosion our leading citizens had gathered and formed themselves into relief committees. Their work so well begun has been nobly supplemented by American and Canadian relief trains and financial aid. The generosity and sympathy of our friends across the line has made a very deep impression upon cur people, and we can never forget the prompt and efficient aid they gave us in our hour of dire need. You will appreciate this work when I tell you that from eight to ten American glaziers from one of the relief ships are now placing glass in the windoy/s of the school and protecting us from an unuasually cold and stormy December.

Our own plans for the future are still in embryo. The school will be disbanded for at least one month if not longer, but the problem of how to make both ends meet, serious as it was under war conditions, is made doubly serious by the expenses resultant Irom the explosion and the careing for the sick and homeless. To add to this we have to face a new problem as to how we can best serve those who have become blind a= a result of the terrible disaster. I leel, however, that this matter is in God's hands and that with His

®i'f'ective will be done. This is our great and immediate p oDlem and if you can suggest any way by which it can be met you States ^ another cause for our gratitude to the people of the United school population Nothing that has been written, telegrfphed or'' said can express to you the horror of the disaster of Of December 6th. The day was particularly^i^tg^rand

The explosion created a great tidal wave which swept the docks and drowned many longshoremen and others near the water front who had escaped dLth by concussion. The last week seems to me like a frightful nlehtmare The harrowing tales of living persons looking for their lost relatives of children without parents, parents without children and so forth ' make one's heart bleed. With it all one is so helpless to do much to assuage the sorrow of the stricken ones.

wounded w-lch was opened in our school rooms within three hours of the accident. Our staff and pupils were simply wonderful in their devotion to the injured ones, and day and night they worked heroically the good of those about them despite the excessive cold from which thev all suffered aue to the windowless buildings and a terrible bllzzsard from the north east which came on on the evening of the disaster If our people suffered imagine the sufferings of the frantic peonle who were searching the debris of their fallen homes. I have said enouav, about the horror of the situation and I pray God that I may never ^ have another experience of the kind. ^ never to this we have to farp, careing for the sick and homeless. To add those who have become hit Problem as to how we can best serve feel, however t terrible disaster. I

Your letter which I received this morning is 30 full Of real sympathy and a desire to help that it touched ne very deeply. i nave already sent you a brief ?r^. .j Notice dealing particularly v/ith the effects of the explosion upon our school buildings and our school population. Nothing that has been written, telegraphed or said can express to you the horror of the disaster of the morning of December 6th. The day was particularly bright and beautiful. our school had dispersed after Roil Call and the teachers and pupils were all in their Class rooms or at their assigned duties. iiy wife was

W- naturally supposed it v/as a German shell or bomb and believed with what thought was left us that others would follow. With a promptitude that surprises me, and would indicate long and systematic drilling t hat staff and pupils, headed, Py the way, by our own cut and bleeding and much frightened little boy, gathered in the basement where all waited for some explanation of the terrib le happening. Our little Pred had often heard us discussing the raids on London, a:id being frightened when off along in his nursery by the flash of theexplision he fortunately turned and ran, thus saving his llte or at least his eyes, for a second later t he large window by which he had been standing was shattered into thousands of pieces , and the sashes blown across the room. Fortunately the cuts he received were slight and we have to thank God for his escape. Our staff and pupils were likewise fortunate, only a few minor scratches having been experienced. One teacher had an artery cut in her neck. This record in the face of 800 panes of glass having been Instantaneously shattered to atoms and window cases and doors blown in, passes understanding. You can well understand that our escape is due entirely to our b.^ing t?/o miles di.stant from the scene of the accident Which was the northern end of our harbour. if we felt it as we did and our buildings were damaged as they have been, you can realize tne territiie effect of tne explosion upon tne nortn end of the City, v/here in the twinkling of an eye hundreds of people met death, and thousands of homes were dashed to splinters or blown into the air. The explosion shattered doors and windows in ray solidly-built summer home ten miles away, and was felt at a distance of 2oj miles from Halifax. The only way that I can describe the effect of the explosion is to say that it caused a blizzard of splintered glass and this accompanied by flying shrapnel probably accounts for many deaths as well as for the loss of eyesight. I am having a careitil investigation roade with respect to the latter and hope that the estimate of 25<j who have lost their sight may prove excessive, but I j ear not. The explosion created a great tidal wave v/hich swept the docks and drowned many longshoremen and others near the water front xvho had escaped death by concussion.

The last week seeras to me like a fright ful nightmare. The, harrov/ing tales of living persons looking for their lost r.,lative3, of children v/ithout parents, parents without children and so forth make ones heart bleed. With it all one is so helpless to do much to assuage the sorrow of the

C. F. Fraser. K. B. Superintendent

I nave already told you of our emergency noapital for the wounded whicn was opened in our school rooms within thr ee hours of the accident. our staff and pupils were simply wonderful in their devotion to the injured ones, and day and night they worked heroically for the good of those a'oout them despite the excessive cold from which they all aufiercj due to the windowless buildings and a terrible blizzard from the north east which came on on the evening of the disaster. if our peonie suffered imagine the sufferings of. the frantic people v/ho were searching the debris of their fallen homes. i have said enough about the horror of the situation and I pray God that I may never have another experience of the kind.

You were right in the conjecture that our accoraiaodation such as it was was freely opened to she iter the homeless, and daily this work goes on while the papiis are gradually being sent to their homes. \ve are now planning to entertain at least lou of the homeless people for the Christmas season.

coimr.itfees . Tneir vvorK so well begun has been nobly supplemented by Aifierican and Canadian relief trains and financial aid. The generosity and syiapathy of our friends across the line has made a very deep impression upon our and vfe can never forget the prompt and efficient aid they gave us in our hour of dire need. You will appreciate this work when I tell you that from eight to ten American glaziers from one of the relief ships are now placing glass in the windows of the school and protecting us from unusually cold and stormy December.

-Air own plans for the future are still in embryo. The school will be disbanded for at least one month if not longer, but the problem of how to make both ends meet, serious as it was under war conditions, is made doubly serious by the expenses resultant from the explosion and the caring for the sick and homeless. To add to this vie have to face a nev; problem as to how we can b est 86; 've those v/ho have become blind as a result of the ten i ole disaster. i feel, however, that this matter is in God a hands and that with his help something effective will be done. Th.is is our great and Immediate problem

The follow-eip v/ork Is well iina°r way but the problems to deal with, especially among women, are alreadv pressing. Pirst, there are the spinsters between twenty and fifty, and the widows without children. Por these I would suggest the immediate establishment of an annex near the school where these people would be looked after and be within easy reach of proper training.

Second, there are the mothers who have been blinded, whose husbands are dead, whose homes are destroyed and Who have one or more small children with sight. it does not seem to me that the mother and children should be- separated , and the only solution that i see to this problem is to secure a good sized house containing small separate apartments where the mother and children can live together and the mother can be trained to go on with her household duties with her family about her, her work, as that of the whole establishment to be supervised.

Tniril, inoth<?r3 '/mo have lost their sight vmose hustoands are still able to provide for them and their children. These need careful supervision in their homes so that they may learn to take up life under the altered conditions. I would like all the counsel and advice un this three-fold problem that you can give me.

you ai^ Moaaro, ; e.Money, Allen, lairrltt una niedSJo aplondld ofTor of looidLnc; after forty of trio chool for Vm Blind la very^-Slv ^ nallfaa

Class Of Service Symbol

If none of these three symbols appears after the check (number of wor()s}this isaday message. Otherwise its character is indicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

Symbol

appears after the check (number of words) this Is a day message. Other* wise its character is indicated by the symbol appearing after the cheek.

Received At Edv.Apd E Allen

Halifax Blind Relief Committee thlnlc conditions nereiverj^ serious. Five hundred persons have had one or doth eyes injured. Clinics here Inadequate. The saving of sight urgent. Will provide aultahle room at School for the Blind for free eye clinic. Can you come to Halifax for four or six weexav If not can you send us an outstanding mem. Matter imperative. Reply quickly stating terms.

iJur Coimflittree Join me in thanKing you for telegraifl, will you kindly purchase at our expense and shff^ to me hy express all necessary equipment for outpa^^ent clinic, . We have two beds for emergency cases toJt. until consulting you expect to confine work to out-

'inenjay, when -I ox )oct to start honewartt, we shall no lonrier - U 'e<l to senrt chit Tollow-iip rinha to aosie ovon?orKed local bculirt; Mina uand in as busy as can be ana has oontinuous Clerical' help and that of tvm voluntary worircrs ana four nurse, visitoiru. I i-arsonaliy ruu doiru- little beyond tryinn to influence .xiblio ouinion throurh -'shop talks" with rnTx>rt''rB ana school ona other Influential people, and reuarinf a foru for a hiatory and vocational guidance c irrt for ''inn a^na to ' fill in for the later use of our Ooi.aalttee.

If none of these three s>'nibols appears after the check (number of words) this is a day message. Other* wise its character is indicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

If none of these three symbols appears after the check (number of words) this is a day message. Otherwise its character is indicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

Mass V.Ere'Hfre Reply Tonight V.Ithout Fail

DR STIRLING ARRIVED TODAY LOCAL I/EH STRONGLY OPPOSING CLINIC STIRLING ^HEl' TAKES POSITION V.ITPOUT KNOVvLEDGE THAT THERE IrWiS HO NECESSITY FOR HIS COMING THEY HAVE AGREED TO FOUR DAYS FREE CLINIC LOCAL MEN IN CHARGE Y.ITH STERLING CONSULTANT TO PROVE THERE CONTENTION DO YOU ADVISE ALLOV.ING THIS V.IGH YOU V.ERE'HFRE REPLY TONIGHT V.ITHOUT FAIL .

C F. Fraser. K. B - Superintendent

first clinic v;as held todaj' and Dr. Stirling and a local oculist, Dr. MacL»nnan, were on duty. Th^ clinic opened at .2.3J P.M., thirty-eight patients viere ex.amined, and ao f.ar as I can understand thirteen of these had not seen an oculist amce leaving hospital.

The iiioiihers of the Comiosion for Halifax Relief came to see i.ie this Morning and talXed over the situation v/ith respect to Dr. Stirling and the local oculists. The toiiuiissioners vrari.ily endorsed the idea of an outside Man but thought that the local oculists Should have been consulted before his anuoin*Ment. They agreed with Me that under tne circuiistances the. clinic had better cojitinued and intiMated that troy vere prepared, should the present clinic prove unsatisfactory, to tai:e tiie Matter up afresh and deal v/ith it vigorously.

I have beer, very uuch overworked since the explosion, and ray wife has been -ven More so. i want a thorough-going , vrelltrained assl.etant in the office^ of the type of Mias Rand, who oould relieve ue 'ron the endless details that I have to ' o.x'.i particularly life soueone like ?'lsn Rand v.'ith a rood

Knov.'ledre of worlc for blind. In there anyone in Norton or vicinity that yon could aecuro for ue for Trou four to r.ix luonths ac least, until the heavier \;orX renuitinc froL the explosion has quieted dovii. I want soj..eone v.'ho is bi^y eriouyh to fyrasp the import. Ui'je of the present nituatioi,, one ii.'no is not afraid of v'orK and ir. not (yov-'^rened by hours ar.d one v,rho vrauld be able to r'^prosent me in my absence, and attend comraittee meetings of men interested in the blind. I find my loss of hearing a very f:reat drawbacic in gener.al committee meetijpqs and want soiie person v/ho will Keop Giof^eiy in touch with every thinp:. Please give me an idea of the salary such a nerson would cojiu.iand , including board in t)ie school.' This matter is j.iore or less urgent as the present demands upon my time, aside from regular v'orh, maice life veiy strenuous. If you can do anything to help in this matter, as well as the mu itltrdincus other matters with which you have h.eined me I shall be grateful.

I have received your several telegrams and am glad that you concur with me that the proper thing to do was to let the Commission assume the responsibility of the carrying on of the Clinic. Dr. Mathers telephoned me that the local oculists were prepared to continue the Clinic at the school for the Blind for two days a week. This offer was also passed to the Conuaisslon.

On Sunday evening Mr. Rogers, Chairman of the Coiiualssion, telephoned me that he was going to meet the oculists at 5 P.M. on Monday and would like to have Miss Rand write him a letter with respect to the Clinic. This- letter was sent to Chairman Rogers early yesterday afternoon but so far I have heard nothing from them. ],lr. W. a. Black agreed with the idea of letting the Coriuaisslon assurae the responsibility of closing or continuing the Clinic. You win find enclosed a copy of the letter Miss Rand sent to Chairman Rogers. i suppose we must await developments. in th» meantime the registration and fminw-ut» wor - la r,oing on as usual and urgent cases of eye trouble will be sent to local oculists for treatment. I wisn you had been with us during last week. The situation was very uncomfortable owing to the stand taken by Dr. Stirling, as well as that taken by the local oculists. I will keep you advised of further developments.

T have your letters of the ^th, fith and 14th insts. , and. your telegrajn of the 15th. T will deal with these according to date. I should have '-Tltten sooner hut really had not time to do half the worV. that lay at ny hand.

I should have written to you mere fully touching our clinic hut the truth is I was astounded hy the attitude of both Dr. Stirling and our local oculists. As you will rememher Dr. Stirling telegraphed to know how many beds we had, and he also forwarded drugs and dressings from T'ontreal to the value of about ^^175. 00. 7^e came prepared for a clinic in vhilch eyes should not only be examined but dressed, and probably would have been all rlght^ but on his arrival tlie local oculists literally seized him by the coat collar and he gave in quickly. In rry first interview with nim he was very pronounced, discounting and sneering at the advertising that had 'oeen done, and stating that he was read;/ to return to :/ontreal on the following morning. dint of tiie judicious use of oil I got him calmed dow'n and arranged to lue.-t tr.e local oculists rlth hlru thst sfternoon. They ceiue^ for upv/arfis of an hour vented their math upon the rilnd Relief Coiiin.ittee for daring to Invite an outside oculist here xithout their consent. After talking professional etiquette until I v.'as tired and declaring that tne clinic was unnecessarj^ I urged them for humanity's sake to try It for one week. They agreed and the clinic, most unsympathetic, was carried on for three days. Eighty people attended and I was satisfied despite the character of the clinic that It was worth while. At the end of three days Br. Stirling, with Boull and Mathers arrived in mj' office. Stirling said there was no need for him to remain in Halifax CL^ the local oculists had the situation well in hend. At the same time he stated that "The hoys would now he good" and do anything that I wished. He did not apologize for his conduct and for that of the oculists on the previous Wednesday hut ne did show that he was sorry the interview was of so unpleasant a character. I then asked the local oculists Whether the clinic was to he closed and txiey agreed to take the matter under consideration. In the meantime l talked with Mr. Black and we decided, after receiving your telegram, tc. xxand everything over to the Commission. After that the on Wednesday evening, Peh. 6th, the Blind ReU ef Committee aad tne Commission met at the school and we all .spoke our minds xflost frankly. Your visit to the Commissioners uad great ivelgxit. Tne Comitission then took up the matter with tne local oculists and after several meetings It was agreed to Invite Dr. Harvey of Providence, R. I., to come to the City and .he consultant In a dally clinic at the School for tne Blind. The oculists strenuously oppose notifying patients oy letter or card. I am sending you a paper containing the advert is einent which is the only intimation which tiie people have as to the reopening of the clinic. I do not regard it as enough hut the responsibility lies with the Commission.

Pour patients attended the clinic on Friday afternoon, and double tuat niunher on Saturday. Dr. Harvey is very sympathetic and tne local oculists have so far been very pleasant with the patients.

with respect to tne copy of your letter sent to He.-isrs. VanCleve and Burritt i can only say that It Is an admirable presentation of the situation to date. I might briefly refer to two points. First, that the attitude of the

C F. Fraser, K. B - Superintendent

Aiuerlcan Red Cross towards tlie blind in Halifax mignt be effected by tiie action of our local oculists witn respect to tne clinic. I feel sure that however disgusted the A. R. C. migiit be with tne attitude of our local oculists it would maice no difference in its action with respect to the blind in Halifax. Second, tnat you question in your own mind whether it is well for those Interested to depend upon the American Red Cross for monetary assistance and allow the psychological moment to pass in which monied contributions might be secured for tne blind in the large American cities. Our Committee are still of the opinion tnat it would be discourteous to the authorities of the American Red Cross to maxe an active cai/ipaign for subscriptions for the blind of Halifax in the United States, i may state In this connect ioa that an ex-cabinet minister at Ottawa recently informed a

JLfriend of mine in Halifax that the RocKfeller Foundation In New Yorlc was desirous of doing something distinctive to help tne situation in Halifax. The ex-minister was desirous that tne Foundation do something for the blind but knowing as I do that the Foundation co-operates with tiie American Red CroB, and believing that the A. R. C., representing as it does, tne jjeople of the United States, 1 told iny friend that the cause of ttie Dllnd In Halifax was In the hands of the representatives of tne A. H. C., and we thought that it was test not to cloud the situation in any way.

With respect to a secretary assistant for rjiyself, I thinX that Miss Everett will do admirahly. I take it that Miss Rand cannot remain at her present worx indefinitely and I know that in addition to my regular work there will he many lines of special work to follow. If you think that Miss Everett will make a careful, painstaking, intelligent and discreet secretary I wish you would arrange to nave her come to Halifax as soon as possible. IX) you think she would have the initiative to represent me during my possible absence-ifrom the school, and the ability to answer letters in an intelligent way. It is probabl^I will want her for six or elgiit months^ in which case she may be at the school for three months during vacation time with on^ the housekeeper and a maid or two living in the buildings, or it may be that she would spend a part of her time with us at Bedford. This will altogether depend upon herself and. clrciuitstances. we are prepared to board )'lss Everett in the school and to pa;/ her at the rate you state.

I need a secretary for fully eight months and dossibly permanently. If Miss Everett will come at once with the understanding that I am to seek someone to take her Place by May first, I shall be glad to have her come. If in the meantime she decides to stay until November, it will probably be all right. Terms satisfactory. Thank you,

I have your kind letter of February 27th enclosing copies of your letters to Mr. Persons and Major Jajnes Bordley, for which please accept my thanks.

The first Clinic was open for three days and eighty patients attended. The second clinic, under Dr, Harvey, was open in all elgiit days and sixty-seven patients attended. The Commission which arranged the opening of the seconc Clinic had to contend with the local situation

They did however place an advertisement In all the Halifax papers which they deemed was sufficient. We could not get them to consent to cards being sent to individuals. After the Clinic had been opened four or five days the Chairman agreed to have the nurses notify possible patients. i do not think aiiy more can be do. e in this direction and i am satisfied that both Clinics were advantageous to the sufferers from eye accident.

C. F. Fraser. K. B. . Superintendent

'^^itn reference to my visit to the Tinited States, ihis must depend largely upon you as you are Chairman of the Committee. i might say however that if the meeting

The cordial invitation of iJrs. Allen and yourself to have us as your guests during our stay in Massachusetts IS veiy sincerely appreciated by my wife and myself, but as you Will understand we are wedded to our old quarters at the Parser House as this is an excellent centre from which Shopping expeditions, etc. can be carried out. i feel now tnat if our conference does not last more than a day or two ouli nice to go further South for change and rest, but this will depend upon circumstances here.

You will he pleased to Know that during the past month I have received from Canadian contributors *25,000.00, Which is now part of tiie fund. Ttils morning I heard from 3.fr. Van Cleve enclosing a checK for S814.00, being the amount kindly contributed by American Schools for the Blind. This will be placed to the credit of our Blind EndoWient Fund, v/hlch I hope will grow to such proportions that the income well enable us to meet the needs of the newly blinded in Halifax.

Persons is so clear and yet so concise that it might have oeen written by a diplomat of many years experience. Your lettei' to Major James Bordley is also most satisfactory to me.

Ye have at present eight Canadian blinded soldiers ana two more corning yery shortly. Four of those who are With us are studying massage with practical hospital work.

C, F. Fraser, K. B Superintendent

Halifax is beginning to settle down hut the Shock from the explosion is still painfully evident among our citizens. Dr. Macdonald, the neurologist from Providence has oeen asked hy the Commission to remain here and study conditions. He is a particularly fine man arid his personality is felt hy all those with whom he comes in contact.

I have your favor of March 8th and ara very grateful to you fof v/ritinif: to roe in the frank v/ay you have. Your eetiraate of fir. Swift 'a assertions and i.iy seemini^ inconsiatencien is correct.

Let me first refer to the statement that "I proraised not to collect money for the needs of th^ blind outside of the Maritime Provinces and Newfoundland " . This is absolutely without foundation. Dr. Dickson of Toronto came to iTalifax last .July and urged th" incorporation of a Canadian National Institute for the Nlind with head office at Toronto, said Institute to be in affiliation with the National Institute for th« Blind of Knttland. l was to be made honorary president of the Irrtltute. The institute v/as to be governed by a Council of eighteen and have an executive of five or six members in Toronto who were to control the destinies of the blind of Canada. The scheme was chimerical but hoping that it might under certain conditions

C. F. Fraser. K. B . Superintendent

Toronto cooies of this document full power v/as Riven to the central executive over all matters pertaining to the blind in Canada, inoludiiiR education and training. I advocated that provincial coioiiuttees represented on the central cojmiittee control the several provinces with the understanding: that Nova acotla, New Brunswick and Prince Pldward laijuid be regarded as one province. Dr. Dickson, with the co-op°ration of Mr. Frtvift and others, discounted the idea of provincial rights and v.^ould not listen to any aj.iendments with this in view. Jividently Dickson became tired of amended charters as I have r Dt heard from him since November last. Had th'^ proposed Canadian National Institute been incorjiorated according to Dr. Dickson's ideas our organizations for the blind here might have been seriously jeopardized. Jn the other hand had the institute been incorporated according to Lp/ ideas i would not have been in a position to seek contributions for our Hlind Tindovmient lUnd in Ontario or the ./est, but the institute was never incorporated and I have never made any nror.nse with respect to securing aid throughout Canada. jn the otfier hand in November last an agent of the

You sum up Mr. n'.vift's allegations in a poragraph in your letter under three heads. Ei_r_st, misstatement of facts. At the time the circular v/as printed and sent out, January I5th, I believed that upwards of two hundred persons in Halifax had been totally or practically blinded by the explosion. The facts proved two months later that probably tills number could be cut in two.

ThJ.rd, that two of the blinded soldiers had passed their examin?itxons at ;.lcGill v/ith distinction. This is true, with the excejition that the men required practical v^orlc in the hospitals. Their diplomas win probably be given them in a short time and v/in prove that their passing of the examinations with distinction is absolutely correct.

of Toronto with a -view to raising a hugh national fund is a misstatement of fact. Last sunmier a lady from London, ont . , Who was in Halifax^m^t the blinded soldiers at our home in Bedford. 3he became very much' interested in this special woric and went baojc to her home and Interested the l.o.n.E. of London in -providing equipiaent so that th^* soldiers taight have a greater variety of oocupations . Siihsequently a Chapter in 3ritish Columbia wrote to me that they would like to do something along this line but before doing so would like the approval of the national exenutive at Toronto. I then wrote to Mrs. Gooderham, the President of the executive telling her of the proposed donation and requesting that the executive sanction the same. I never heard from firs. Gooderham^ but have reason to kno'v that Toronto influence v/as brought to bear to prevent the I.u.D.E. helping our Equipment Fund.

There was no secrecy in the matter and as the i*und required was only a fev/ thousand dollars, i cannot see hov? it can be said that I was endeavoring secretly, through the l.o.F.E. of Canada to use "A hugh national money-getting machine".

The fact is that Sir Arthur Pearson is behind all th.1s opposition. cir Arthur, through his agents, has raised an imiaense sum in Canada for the retraining of blinded soldiers and X can see his hand in all this antagonism to our work in Halifax.

paper squiPs of volunteer colt^ctors and can only regret that the caiapal^n han Peen Plndered ratner than helped py such irreeooneiPle etateiaento .

Afiain let ue thank yon for wrltinp; to me so frankly and fiiliy v/ith respect to the Toronto opposition. I think you '.vill Pe able to read between the lines and fully understand my position in this matter.

I/Iiss .'Tverett, v,'ho developed chronic bronchitis while here^ left for ]?oston thi.s morning, to my very p:reat regret. Miss Everett would have made an ideal secretary and I :Uii very, ver.v sorry to lose her help.

Miss Rand says she must leave /Spril 15th, Is there any way of holding her at our expense? Money must not be a consideration. Many complicated situations constantly arising. Some one with knowledge. of work for the blind most essential. Would Miss Lucy Wright consider coming to Halifax for six months, if Miss Rand is out of the question?

I sent you the papers last v/eek containing the announcement of the Conuaission to the effect that the federal Government of Canada proposed to ask Parliament for Seven Million Dollars ( 87,000,000.00) with a view to pensioning all persons who had been physically incapacitated by the explosion at Halifax. I have no doubt that this money vrill be granted but I presume it will be several months before the amounts of the pensions will be made public and the pensions absolutely paid over.

We have at present in the school one little girl five years of age, one six, one nine, one sixteen, one eighteen and two nineteen. In addition one day pupil, a man of twenty-seven came in today. There is one case. Miss Tilly Pitt, age fifty-three, who is homeless. This v/oman we have arranged to board at the expense of our Committee. in the vicinity of the school and she will come in daily to be trained as best ve may.

our girls' and our boys' industrial departments in the morning for adults, having them remain for dinner and then giving them two hours training in reading, writing, etc. in the afternoon. our shops are comparatively empty in the mornings and our school rooms in the afternoons. We Shall probably continue this training during the sumxaer holidays. These people will be brought to the school by guides or in autos at the expense of the Committee.

Miss Rand is doing splendid work and I wish it were possible for her to remain until November next. i do not know how the Commission could spare her nor do I know that the American Red Cross would care to bear the expense of her remaining here. i have not spoken to Miss Rand about it but our Committee would gladly assume the expense of her salary and give her a home in the scicol. I find Miss Rand thoroughly efficient and conscientious and as she knows our problem so well I should be delighted if she could remain with us. The work in a measure is letting up and I do not think it can ever be as strenuous as it was for the first three months.

in those dark days when the prohlem of blindness in Halifax seemed almost overvdielming . I suppose I will hear from you presently with respect to the date of the meeting of our joint Committ'ee. Judge, now Chief Justice Harris, will if possible be with us wherever the meeting may be.

Miss Rand strongly recommends Miss Kelly, state home teacher Baltimore 8s her successor* Do you think she would come to us at once? Ha^e written you fully today regarding general condition here* Would like advice by

The position here has completely changed during the last fortnight. You will remeraher that I sent you on March 12th the papers containing the announcement that the Commission was authorized to state that the Dominion Government was about to ask parliaiuent for a grant of 1^7,000 ,000.00 and the money be used in pensions for those who were incapacitated bj^ the disaster of December 6th. Later on I learned that the Comir.lssion is prepared to pay for the educational and vocational training of all of the blind or practically blind of the disast^^r. Tbis view of the matter was subsequently confirmed and I found that some people were of the opinion that the blind were not receiving proper attention and that active steps must at once be taken to see that everything was done that could be done to train the blind here or in tboir homes and to give them such mothers ' helpers as might he needed. The Commission has asked me to prepare a schedule shewing what would have to be paid for the training of Halifax blind jwpiis in this school.

Also what would be charged for adiaitting adults as- day pupils, also cost of employing registration staff, hone teachers ane others in connection with the -.voik. it is possible that the Comifliasion nay capitalize the amount and place it in our Blind Endowment Fund but this is by no means cArtain.

v/e hav*' at present seven girls in the school blinded by the Halifax disaster. Three of them are nine years of age and underhand four between sixteen and nineteen. These are all being carefully trained. Uur Horae Teacher is training several women in reading and knitting but the great majority of the cases are not yet ready for any instruction. some are in hospital, some sick at home and some will not yet view with favor any training. I.fy idea is that as far as possible these adults should be brought to th- school and given two or three hours in the workshons in the morning and in the school rooms in the afternoon. dur Visitors and hone teacher state that- owing to housing conditions few of the adult blind can be seen to advantage in their homes. Faiallies are living in the kitchen v/hich if! used as the living roora^ and. the home teacher finds it difficult to give instruction to the blind woman or man who is surrounded by the other members of the family.

Miss Rand agrees with me that everything la being done that can at present be accomplished. Our streets are in a terrible condition ov/ing to snow and ice and it will prcbabiy be two v/eeks before it wi.ii be possible to admit day pupils.

Dr. McDonald has at our request seen two or three of those who have become blind, but I do not think that so far we have more than one serious case and that

In iiiy letter to you of March M-th I asked you when and vdaere you proposed to hold our ;ioint meeting but up to date I have not heard from you on this matter. You as ''Chairman will have to settle this point. I suggested April 10th or 17th in Poston, or I might nov/ add April 24th.

inside conditions of raattiers today, but I feel that i am wording against an undercurrent which I do not understand and Which results in the impression that we are doing nothing and neglecting the Halifax blind. This gives you a slight Clue to some of the new difficulties which have arisen, yet I know that everything that can be done for the Halifax blind to date has been dono^ and that in a few weeks we win be able to do much more.

Mr. and Mrs. Murphy of Brooklyn have agreed to come on the I2th. or 15th. of April provided Mr. Murphy is relieved from his present work. I have offered them one hundred and fifty dollars, ($150.00), per month with home here and transportation should they come. In the meantime I am very anxious that Mr. and Mrs. Murphy should be installed at their earliest possible date .

I am somewhat perplexed owing to the pressure that is being brought upon me to make Mr. John Weir Superintendent of the newly blinded of Halifax. This gentlemen is an excellent platform speaker and a good collector but is not the man for the position. If he were:- I would gladly second his appointment. He has got a few of his friends to interest themselves on his behalf and to bring influence to bear of the Relief Commission but I have taken the stand that this is a matter which requires the consideration and co-operation of the representatives of the American Red Cross and that steps have already been taken

You will understand that this is not a question of money but a question of placing in charge of the work properly trained people. I know that you endorse the appointment of Mr. and Mrs. Murphy also that Mr. Van Clevei does likewise;. It has occurred to me that the perspective friction might be, overcome entirely if Mr. and Mrs. Murphy came here as the representatives of the American Red Cross and that possibly they might be paid by the same organization.

Kindly give this matter your prompt consideration as the: plating of an inexperienced person or persons in charge of the work, especially the outside work might be of serious disadvantage to the proper carrying out of this work. Send me a night letter on this letter. I would like very much to have Mr. and Mrs. MurphV installed here before going to Boston.

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You If Possible Or Local Committee Of Men

ME TO COMMITTEE CORRECT TODATE EXPECT ADDITIONAL SEVEN MILLION FROM DOMINION WHICH INCLUDES PENSIONS FOR CRIPPLED BLIND ETC AUTHORITY ESTIMATES PROPERTY AND INDIRECT LOSSES AT BETWEEN TWENTY FIVE AND THIRTY MILLION DONOR ORGANIZATION SHOULD DIRECT EXPENDITURE THROUGH YOU IF POSSIBLE OR LOCAL COMMITTEE OF MEN night letter of Saturday last dealt with the available funds of the Federal Commission. As I understand it the additional seven million has not yet been made public, but it includes pensions for the blind and maimed. I had an interview with Dr. Cutten last week and discussed with him the general work in connection with the newly blinded of Halifax.

On Dr. Cutten' s recommendation the Blind Relief Committee, the Relief Commission, Mr. Pearson, Chairman of the Massachusetts Fund, and Dr. Cutten met at the school yesterday.

I told the Commission that the joint committee of the American Red cross had under consideration the making of a report to lir. Persons and that before making this report you, as chairman, were anxious to know to what extent the Commission was prepared to give the financial aid that would be required in looking after the newly blinded of Halifax. The Chairman, Mr. Rogers, stated that the Commission had given its guarantee to the Dominion Government that it would look after all persons who had los their sight during the recent disaster. A very interesting exchange of views followed and the Commission requested me to give an outline of the work proposed to be done for the blind.

The Commission would then decide as to what portions of this programme it would financially support. Mr. Pearson on behalf of the Massachusetts Committee requested that a copy of the programme for the blind should be sent to him and he would then consult with the Massachusetts Committee as to carrying out any particular portion of this programme. You will remember that the local Massachusetts Committee holds twenty-five thousand dollars ear-marked for the blind. The Committee and Commissioners were very grateful for the kind interest of the American Red Cross and were likewise grateful to you and to your American colleagues for your interest in the newly blinded of Halifax.

The chairman stated that IJIr. Persons eXijected to be in Halifax within a short time and it was suggested that a meeting be held here while Mr. Persons was in the City, to be attended by the members of the joint committee of the American Red Cross and. the Halifax Relief Commission. Under the circumstances this seems the best course to pursue. It will now be for .vou to decide whether the report of the joint committee shall, in the

The relations between the Commission and the Halifax Relief Co'nmission are most satisfactory and I am pleased to state that Chairman Rogers and Dr. Cutten expressed themselves as very much pleased with the work that was being done by lir. and Mrs. Joseph Murphy.

I received the report of the Joint Committee of the American Red Cross which yoi have so ably prepared and it has been signed by Mr. Ternan and myself. It has nov/ gone forward to Queens Hotel

The report when completed will be forwarded to you. I have my .,ravo doubts as to Mr. Persons visiting Halifax for some months to come and if this is so it seems to me that it would be wise for you to present the report to Mr Persons at the earliest possible date.

The Relief Commission received the programiae of the proposed worx for the newly blinded of Halifax on May 16th, but so far have ta.<en no action with respect to it.

I am delighted v/ith the report you have prepared. It is a splendid presentation of the case and I sincerely trust will bring about the results you have striven for so ably.

Sir Frederick Eraser tells me that you plan to read a paper on the Halifax situation at the coming convention. It occurs to me that the enclosed report may he of help to you in the preparation of such a paper as it carefully discusses the situation which we are finding at present. Of course history is o'nly in the making to-day; in a year there will be definite achievement to which to point.

You will be glad to know that thus far we have worked in harmony with everyone. I would greatly appreciate your sending me a copy of your paper.

Eollowing your advice, we have stayed more than two weeks, and the end is not yet; for there is a vast amount of hard work I do not think we would ever wish to settle here, though Sir Erederick asftd Lady Eraser do everything in the world for us.

Unfortunately the Chief Justice returned to Halifax yesterday morning. We have telegraphed for the renort w'hich v/as registered to be returned at once. I hope to get the document signed Saturday and trust it v;lll bo in your hands by Tuesday or V'ednesday of next week.

If none of these tfiree symbols appears after the check (number of words) this is a telegram. Otherwise its character isindicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

If none of these three symbols appears after the check (number of words) this is a telegram. Otherwise its character Is indicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

And Public

DIRECTOR PERKINS INST '.VATERTOVJfj i.|^g^"ver CHIEF JUSTICE HARRIS RETURNED HOME YESTERDAY SIGNED REPORT OF JOINT COMMITTEE AND FORWARDED TO YOU SY REGISTERED POST I KNO\'/ THAT YOU '.'.ILL DO YOUR BEST TO BRING MATTERS TO A SPEEDY HEAD IS THERE ANYTHING CANADIAN MEi/iBERS OF JOINT COMMITTEE CAN DO TO EXPEDITE .MATTERS OUR BLIND RELIEF WORK HERE IS WINNING OUT AND IS ApPi.ECIATED BY COMi.ilSolON AND PUBLIC r.-.c-.-urei rather by the earniiLg capa.::i\y :.he recipients and that the o'ltcome will be';.;e«'jre aa compared Tith onsa ideas of That chould be dona. Thi- natter pensions is not yet finally ce-^tle:. T often Tlsh that jr j could b-c here to discuss th? ,-caiter wttv. the C;;_a1ns1on. If you think tr.at you could co:ce to Halifax T Till gladly have y-yur expenses paid by o-ur Hl'^nd Pelief I had hoped chat the American Pel ''rose assistance To'.ad have been settled by this date, in vrhich oat-e T had meant "o ask you to come to Halifax so as to cooperate with me in dealing 7rith the ''onmissi on,and subsequently T theughf r.^e Tight take 'h- ''ith the '^ommissi the ''uestiQn of pensions for the nerlv hlinied* the MURPHYS LEFT FOR NE./YORK THURSDAY REPORTED HERE THAT THEY ILL VISIT V.'ASHINGTON AT ONCE IF SO I AM AFRAID -V.UCH OF THE V/ORK DONE '.I ILL uE COUNTERACTED

Eliot Wadsworth

In answer to your letter of May 20th, may I say that Mr, Persons expects to return from France on June 2nd. ^I have no doubt he will be in his office on Monday, June 5rd. No intimation has reached me that he olanned to visit Halifax.

May I suggest that you address Mr. Persons at this office during the week of June 3rd, requesting him to arrange an appointment with your Comciittee at some mutually convenient time.

I acknowledge your letter of May 31st, addressed to Mr. Persons. Mr. Persons was expected in the office today, but advices from the Ste'unship Company indicate that there was a delay in the sailing of his boat and that he will probably not arrive until the end of theweek. Please be sure that your letter will be brought to his attention at the earliest practicable moment.

National Headquarters

We plan to reach our little home about the twentieth and shall be happy to call on you shortly after our return, if you will be at liberty. It is our present plan to leave here on the fifteenth.

Edward M Van Clcve. Paincipal

In accordance with your request I sent on the message to Mr. Burrltt, but I did not send it by telegram because I felt quite sure that it would not roach Mr. Burrltt in time for him to do any thing before he came to the weekend at Overbrook. Thereofre, I sent it by Special Delivery to Overbrook with a request on the envelope that It be com^ munlcated in the quickest possible way to Mr. Burrltt. I wrote Mr. Burrltt and am sending you a copy of the letter. This gives you my attitude In the matter and I do not see any thing tliat I could do further or that, until we hear from Sir Frederick Fraser, Mr. Burrltt can do any thing.

I am entirely willing to go to Washington and. do any thing that i can to help the cause along out I should feel very foolish with no further information than what was given by Sir Frederick In his telegram. It is the most unsatisfactory statement that I have seen from him as yet. I have thought a good deal about the matter since I received the telegram and have tried to figure out Just exactly what the relations are now between Sir Frederick and the Murphys. It looks very much as if Sir Frederick had got another case of undue anxiety and hadacted upon the spur of the moment in calling on you for help. This recalls his letter to you which you showed me and then this was followed, as you rememben by another letter In which he took back what he said about Mr Murphy. In the absence of any real Inf ormatlon, I am rather disgusted with the whole business and think that It doesn't matter whom we send up to Halifax.

He wpi get Into the same kind of trouble and will not satisfy the requirements of Sir Frederick nor perhaps please the other side. It seems a great pity that there should be two sides In this matter, but I suppose it is the kind of thing that always develops.

Your letter came yesterday afternoon and I waited to answer It until I might have the opportunity of speaking to Burrltt over the telephone. He did not call me, however, and so I am Inclined to think that he Is waiting to write and will not consider It a matter of so great Importance that action should be taken until we can get some real explanation of the situation and what ought to be done can be decided. I put myself In your place and felt that If you were not off Into the country as you are for a supposed rest, you would probably communicate with me either by telehpone or telegraph and we could decide upon a course of action. But, since you are so far away.

Sir E's case is in the hands of the flods. There must have developed much feeling. Murphy will be home in a few days and I shall have ah early conference with him and write you what he says.

On receipt of a nlpltit letter from ?ir. Allen quoting yours to hlo, I cocanunlcated the substance to Mr. Durrltt and suciMsted that he talk with me by telephone from Phlladelpnla when he came there from lialtlmore for the week-end. On Sunday afternoon we conversed thus and Ur. nurrltt has made the earliest possible effort to get In touch with Mr. l^rsons. I have just received a xrtro from him saying that he hopes to have a chance to sec Mr« rorsons to^y and will perhaps liave some news.

I can appreciate your anxiety. I hope very soon the whole matter will be settled to your satisfaction. I have held myself ready to serve the cause In any way that would seem wise and liave put my tine and services at the disposal of Ur. Persona, through i:r* Burrltt, to the «id that our eonslttee's program might be imt forward promptly, If practicable.

News came that Fir. and Mrs. Murphy are leaving Halifax tomorrow. My Information on the subject of their relations to you and the others Is most cMagcr, but I trust that the work they havo done has tnet with your complete approval and can only regret that there Is at this time some question In your rrtnd as to their faithfulness.

I received your telegram of August 17 announcing that Mr and Mrs Murphy had left Halifax for New York and that it was reported at Halifax they would go at once to Washingtnn.

I had already had a letter from Mr Murphy advising me that they wore planning to reach their home in Brooklyn August 20 and would promptly call on me. They did not arrive, however, until last night. They came over this morning to see me.

I was glad to hear from them that the number of the totally "blind is even less than we had reported to us at the termination of Miss Rand's work, since some reported blind" had proved to be not so, and the percentage of recoveries was marvelous. Therefore, a modification of our committee's report would be in order. Of this, however, Mr Allen will be the best Judge .

Whatever the action taken on the report of our committee, I feel that the cause of thos blinded in the dissster has already been well served and I hone for the best as to the future .

I received your telegram of August 17 announcing that Mr and Mrs Murphy had loft Halifax for Hew York and t^t it was reported at Halifax they would go at once to Washington. I had already had a letter from Mr Murphy advising me that they were planning to roach their homo in Brooklyn August 20 and would promptly call on mo. They did not arrive, however, until last night. They came over this morning to see me.

I was glad to hear from them that the numhor of the totally Blind is oven less than we had reported to us at the termination of Miss Rand's work, since some reported blind had proved to be not so, and the percentage of recoveries was mar veloua. Therefore, a modification of our oonmlttee's report would be in order. Of this, however, Mr Allen will be the best Judge.

Whatever the action taken on the report of our committee, I feel that the cause of thos blinded in the disaster has already been well served and I hope for the best as to the future .

District Vocatio Nal O Ffic E R.

Would you kindly give me your personal opinion of the best kind of portable typewriter for blind pupils. I have had the merits of two or three of these submitted to me, but they seem to have grave defects in design, as far as their use by blind pupils is concerned.

V/ould you also kindly inform me as to whether any of the Typewriter Companies make their regular machines with aluminum frames instead of steel or cast iron, so that they would be more easily portable.

We, the executive committee 4n behalf of the members of the Kuby Seal Club, are writing you to express our desire to have a share in promoting the happiness of anyone who has suffered the loss of sight in the Halifax disaster, if you should find it convenient to invite such a person to our school.

Cuss Of Service

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If none of these three symbols appears after the check (number of words) thi s is a da y messag e. 0th er* wise its character is indicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

Halifax Ns Apr1L22-1918

REALIZE THE ENORMOUS AGGREGATE OF CLAIMS JO BE LOOKED AFTER FEEL SURE THAT FUTURE 0UR BLIND WILL SUFFER UNLESS YOUR ^^iNEROUSm GOMES TO OUR AID GOODNESS KNOWS THEY HAVE SUFFERED ENOUGH ALREADY P'RF'HFRirK RFAI I ZE WHAT REOUIRED AS TIME GOES ON THERE IS POSSIpLY TeSaNCY^EXAGGERATION HALIFAX WILL NEVER FORGET WHAT GOOD OLD ACHUSBTTS DID FOR- US BUT I DO HOPE THE RESULT OF MEETING WILL BE ABLE

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appears after the check (number of words) this isaday message. Other* wise Its character is indicated by the symbol appearing after the check.

Eward E Allen, Perkins Institute , Watertown

PtKSONALLY EAVUR LUMP SUM FOR HALIFAX SL I NB INSTALMENT DUES NUT ruM ITSELF TO MY JUDGMENT WHILE I QUITE APPRECIATE TH^RfcS OF THE DONORS TO INSIST ON MANAGING THEIR OWN GIFTS IF THIS NECESSARY HAUFAX°C0M?-|--J-'^-.r^??^® COMMITTEE MANAGE IT YOU MAY REMEMEBER OUR

First, Tfhila 1 did not know Just whi.t the '-alifix Raliaf Ocmission rasourcas ware, and while 1 did not knov/ that thay had givan ;r-*cadanc8 to tha blind claims o'^ar all others y first wire to you ra thair situation is substantially boms out, that is the R:j.if'.-ji Raliaf Couiuission have a great mar.y mors ciaiins to adjust th.an thay can possibly find funds for, tharafora 1 fa..rad that tha blind would suffer; this o.c*y not ba the case now in view of the factthat their claims ura given precedenoa, a fact which 1 v.as not awara of befora, ancapt in the fact that tha Comj.iission v/ill not go I think as far as wa would Aikl_ir: looking aftar tha blind, but will only do what seems to them reasonable. .Thus tha blind will 1 think likaly suffer somawhat.

suffer if ths 'oli»d ars f'olly caMd for by thie fund^ this point aay or ;-.ay not coaiuond itself to the Rod Cross, but v.as in ay aind v/hor.

I sor.t ay first wiro. 1 was anxious to holp tho blind with duo ro-ard to tho olaias of tho other sufferers by tho Explosion, and I co'old not quite u-^ree with the su-gestion of Hr Rotors that tho Red Cross

The first ouelfjces taicen isas the hull fax blind problrui. being called upon I aexed if it were witnin tne province of tiiC hed Cross to undertake perunnent foreign vorx, and u^on bein* told yes, proceeded to state sQf vievs on j^'r^anent relief and education of the bxind trurough centralisation: tnnt is:- Inttitutlonasing tne thing at hailfnx, and to contrast that aith ehat our OoVsrnoient is plannih, to do with its «ar blinded; eapnasisinf: tne vast ruperiority of the latter. heing esxed if 1 thought the better plan practical for Canana, replied that if i.he Canadian Covern- .'sent would but consider its Halifax victi is ne war cripples, whicii they are, '<i»d would see the need of reuf.bi tnilng the^i to anxiaum efficiency even if for economic re* rone only, that then that wovernaent ought to welcoac such rtid as would oept bring about the best solution of the blind probieo;:- in snort, 1 urged for a per;ir-neat puoiic ret, onalbii ity at Mere..y a private charily. After about rn hour's diocuHuioti I left believing thPt if it were decided to appoint a oouiiiittcc of both Aaericen and Cnnadians to loox into the whole metier find to inajce report to the hed Cross that botn Vsn Cleve, cir i'r. and I would be on it. In fact, I r Bpxcd if i would serve and be reedy to go to Kaiifnx. Of couree 1 tsidl would, kr. kcAloney's nnme and addreee given in at blind tree, of the /.A.i.ii., also - ajor ^jordley's as being chairman of the hub. vJo.iii. on opthalmolopy of the I/. 0. Council of Sation&l r:efence. Jtr. r'ersont eaid he had spojcen with hajor borlley who would welcome cotislruotive action by tne /ied Cross.

* ^Mf^'^n-nilo all now and urgent canon r-o for rmind have boon riahfld to trio local oculists by air .'redoriok lY.aner. A room for tho bon clinic han ocon uropamd at tho ''otiooi for the 'Uind, and tho )i.aalilnery net oinr for brln/^iiv; m the mtlontn. lUan Lotta »^and a

Boston. Mass

Although the opposition of local eye aen has not actca aaversely upon oontriPutions for the tlinaea,' the giving is largely airectea to».ara the hlina enaowaent funa.'"

The three American members our Red Cross committee unite in sending the Vurphys at your call for assistance on Miss Rand's leaving and in general to aid you and the cause of the newly blinded; but believe we cannot undertake to pay salaries* Committee meeting Watertown April 84 suits us.

But I do not tail in »rith your suggestion that you withdravi troc. the Coimi tt.ee, I since resignations of the Kind seen to court explanations and so fceaKen results.! It is surely desiraCle that son-e. one froo, Halifax be present at the tine of handing in the report, to reinforce its request and to stand ready to answer any puestions.! However, i if no one can leave - ana it does seen a long trip even if one has the tine - a strong letter frod you, which I could deliver,! ought to ao the thing.! \Hhere I feel weaK is in knowledge of the facts respecting what ana how auch the Federal Conalssion can and will do for all sufferers,) including the blinded.! However, Sir Frederick has just sent his reply to a cuestion froi Be,) as follows: - "Chairman Coo^itission away leading banker ccrnsulted says Btatenent ttado by ae to committee correct to date expect additional seven ..illicn frox Coa.inion which includes pensions for crippea blind etc sane authority estimates property and indirect losses at between twenty five ana thirty billion aonor organization should direct expenditure Ibrougt ,o« 11 or lor.l oot.lttee of Mo.l* Ihu Is sssentlsli,

For The Blind

Thoogh 1 have fcrlt.ten Mr.! PeraonB^! inaicatini; our aesire ana Int.ention a» a coo&it.tee to go tp Washington in oraer to put our report, into his hanas ana to press it,6 consi aeration,, opviously I cannot foret.elL t-hem t.he exact; t,ixe »iil te tot shall i 8:(tediat;eiy notify each one of you as soon as I You aili tf.en aeteraine whether or not you will join the rest..| Now,, as to you Haligonians.,. I can reaaily unaerstanl that, t.o sane such a trip at t.hi8 tlxe ie no cere jaunt, ana I aE not going to urge you to come,, helpful an I telieve your presence woula te.] But in8t.eaa I shall asu you severally or jointly to »;rlt.e te a short, letter which I cen hana to Mr,] Fereons,- a stateaent of what you believe t.o te h.he situation ana the neea of outisiae aid.'

t,be Acting Director General of the AseTican Red Cross at Washington: "'.'y aear Mr,] Allen; I acxnowleage your letter of May Slst.,- alaressea to Mr,] Pereone,] Mr,] Persons aae expected in the office toaay, tut. aavices iroE the Steaeahip Cospany indicate t.hat there was a delay in the sailing of his toat ana that he will pmatatly not. arrive until the ena of the weeR.f Please te sure that; your letter will ti to his attention at, the earliest, practdcatle soBient,}"

We shall meet Director General Persons at American Red Cross rooms, Washington, next Monday morning, ten o'clock, carrying report. If no one of Halifax members can join us, please fortify us with letters or telegrams addressed to Mr. Persons or me in his care, endorsing the report.

Night Letter

Have received this night letter: "Murphy's plan changed*; Is working hand in glove with R* for control of situation here for the purpose of severing connections with us and accepting engagement with R* Situation critical and entirely dependent on imiBediate action of A.R.C. Purpose of R« to take over work and secure all funds held by us and grant of A.R.C, Will you advise me what course to take? Can action of R* be expedited if we meet in Washington at once? ^eply immediately. (Signed) C. F. Fraser." Not sure R. means Rogers.

A dvise your transmitting messxjge to Burrltt, refuesting him to see or telephone Persons, notifying us of advice or action. Am writing you.

Have driven over to Boothbay Harbor to send off this letter and the following night letter:-(S6e above.) Though I am not sure who R. is, it is evident Sir Frederick is in trouble again; and I don't like the look of things. May be Sir Frederick could expedite matters should he visit Washington and talk with P.-not R. (Query; Does R. mean Red Cross - that is, Canadian Red Cross?)

Mrs. Allen and I have just got settled here, and I cannot well leave now. Nor do I see what I could add by joining Sir Frederick in a visit to Washington, more than what either you or Mr. Burritt could. One of you can perhaps ascertain if Mr. Persons is there and wishes to see Sir Frederick. I am sending off the following night letter to Sir Frederick:-(Ses below.)

P. S. I should almost be afraid to advise Sir Frederick to exchange the coolness of Bedford for the present heat of Washington. I may be reached here by telegraph.

Your telegrams just forwarded here. Await your further explanation by letter. Meanwhile have telegrxiphed Burritt in Baltimore through Van Cleve to consult Persons in Washington and advise us all.

T, too, am one has to sit in the darkened t'Tilirht of recent loss of sip-ht, and kno'7 that it is not sl'vays easy to pet used to thinps as they no".' are.

T ha^'^e learned no"7 to read "'ith finyers instead rf eyes, and take lots of comfort from that. I'y typevriter, too, has hecn learned hy touch <and althouph there are mistakes still it is so pood to he ahie to -'rite and keep in touch -rith friends.

Am no'7 '"orkinp in one of the shops that have been established for the blind s.nd enioy the -'ork rev'T much. Li^e still holds many rleasant tv inrs, e-'^en if man"" thinms have had to bo ohanped .

liy thouphts ha'"e been -.'i th all so many tires, and T hevp ''ished that T could do semethinp to help so trust some "'ord T hove '-'r it ten may help some one to see that tvore is still --'crh that ''e can do e-r'en if it has to be in the sVado-rn

I too, am one who has to sit in the darkening tv/ilight of recent loss of sight, and knov/ that it is not always easy to get used to things as they now are.

I have learned novt to read v/ith fingers instead of eyes, and talce lots of comfort In that. My typewiter too, has keen legrned by touch and although there are mistakes, still it is so good to be able to write and keep in touch 7'ith friends.

Am now working in one of the shops thp,t have been established for tb blind, and enjoy the work bery much. Life still holds many pleasant thtt even if many things have had to be cha.nged.

?'y thoughts ha,ve been v;ith you all so many times, and I have v;ished tha.t I could do something to help so trust some word I have writfe may help some one to see that there is still' work that v/e can do even if it has to be in the shadows instead of the sunshine.

-"ords hy yhioh T can relie-e sorro-.? T -rill be very haypy to do so, for 's on?v a fgTir --Tears afro that T ret rrjth an accident hy -"hich rv sirht yas taken from me. At that, time m:?- husband -/as ailinp and shortly after 'ra" taken frnn me -

The doctors did e-^erythinm they could for me and finally said they oouid do nothing more than find york for me to do which v/ould take m.y mind from K7/ ca.lamity. Throumh the doctor I met Miss Lotta 8. Rand, 'rlio is connected ''ith the Massachusetts Commission for Blind. She took me over to a shop here in Cambridge ''here blind rirls are employed, '.'.'hen I --ent in and found them all so happy and doinp *.he m.ost beautiful -.-/ork hand -veavinp, embroidery, and all kinds of fancy work, my o-'n hardship seemed lightened. However,

I yao TTOi-v niuch d i to even think of attercptinp 'rhat the:/ "/ere doinpas they are all praduates of the Massachusetts '^chool for the Blind.

Miss Rand had -o much confidence in m"''' ability to do that T hepan to have con''idence in myself and T have come to -he conclusion that con'^'idence is the main ihinr e'''' r'''' one O''' us to ha-'^e. ^e ar>^ capable of Lisins-, hut do not trust CT/r o-7n ahi'^lty. T d.ecidod to try "/ork, and the forelad//. Miss Lewis, and all of the rirls -/ere so ve/"/ kin/i to me and shov/ed mo at'Out the besides tear: bine* me to read and "frite ^raille, that I beran to ho harpv myself. I am still

I kno-v you foel that vou are indeed unfortunate in that yon -"ill never amain he able to use your eyes as other neojae. I sup-mest that your other faoulties are of :ust as much use and can he of service to you in many -vays . You can deri-^e m.uch haryinesa your meneral health and strive to do thinms of yhioh you are cauahie as I have d 07ie .

I thought for a ti'mo T should never dare to take a ntep or ^alk alone, but havinp' enme one meet le at t-e station I traveled alone to ITew York Clity last year, and nom have no hesitation in moinr about as I mish .rith slimbt assistance.

liy '.vork is a constant foy to me -^or it is f-,' himhest state of sanitation and fresh air. My comyanions are yer_ect]y hayyy, and Miss Lev/is loins in our ~ and ibllity and is rerfect kindness to

If it is possible for re to write a few words by which I can relieve your sorrow I will be very happy to do so, for it is only a few years ago that I met with an accident by which my sight v/es taken from rn@ - iit that time ray husband was ailing and shortly after was taken from me. ky little girl was cared for by my'*sister end altogether the shock was terrible.

The doctors did everything they could for me and finally s?.id they could do nothing more than find work for me to do which' would take ray mind from ray calamity. Through the doctor I met kiss lotta S. Rand, who ie connected with the Massachusetts Commission for Plind. She took me over to a shop here in Cambridge wV'ere blind girls are employed. '.Vhen I went in and found them ell so" harpy and doing the most beautiful work, hand weaving, embroidery end all kinds of fancy work, my own hardship seera'^d lightened. However, 1 was very much discouraged to even think of attempting what they were doing as they are ali graduates of the Massachusetts School of the Blind. kiss Hand had so much confidence in my ability to do that finally I began to have confidence in myself, and I have come to the conclusion that confidence is the main thing for every one of us to have. ,Ve ere capable of doing^but do not trust our own ability. I decided to try the work, and the fore lady, kiss Lewis and all of the girls were so very kind to me and showed me about the worK, beside teacr.ing me to read and write the blind language, Braille, that I began to be very happy myself. I c-m still employed an this shop and work every day, beside making sweaters and other kinds of knitting at home evenings.

1 know you feel that you ere indeed unfortunate a^ that you will never again be able to use your eyes as other people. May I Suggest _ 1 hat your other faculties are of just os much use and can be or sen ice to you in many ways. You can derive much happiness from your general health and strive to do things of which you are capable as I have done.

^ tnought for a time I should never walx alone, but having some one meet me at the alone to Hew York City lost year, and now have about as I wish, with slight assistance.

is a constant joy to me for it is in a place kept state of sanitation, full of su;' rhino and fresh air, perfectly happy, and Miss Lewis joins in our fun perfect kindness to every one.

liie school for the Blind, v/hich is situated about tv^o luiles from th" scen^ of th° accident, was shaken as by a gr^at earthquake, doors and casements being dri"e;^ in, and all glass shattered. Jur household of ISO 'persons unwinding stall and pu'')ils , I am tiiankful .to say escaped s'^rious inlury. To add to the horror of the situation the explosion was followed within a few hour.s by a blizzard such as Halifax has not experienced for many years and ov/lng to the l^di'eds of open v.^lndcws very great discomfert resultea.

^Ithin a fov' hours oi the explosion an eiiiergency hospital was established in the school in vJhich scores of injured persons from the devastated district '-'ere received and carefully looked after. in all respests o'lr staff and pupils displayed a iiarveious spirit of fortitude, and a desire to be of the utmost help to the sorely afflicted ones and no words of mine can ever express igy admiration for the effective uanner in v'hich they discharged their seif-ix,.posea duties. The school nroper has been closed for one i,,onth but vithiii five days of the disaster the special department xor the retraining of Canadian blinded soldiers ^'-'as arain in lull opera'" ion, and the v/ork progressing as '.isual. The soldiers, i.iany of whom have been on the battlefield of Flanders declare that the i;iost intense bombardments experienced by them * were slight in compari.son with the explosion of Thursday last, ^hlle ^rei erring to the blinded soldiers I might say that two 01 the men trained here have recently taken their examinations in massage in the Physical schcol of Fducation of the University af llcGill, k'ontreal, and have passed with .. Amidst all our trials and hardships we have '^'0 thank God that the staff and pupils of the school escaped without serious injury.

Room 206

This Bureau co-operates with the Boston public schools in finding suitable positions forT-g ^.oP>-= between the ages of fourteen and twenty-one. and charges no fee for its services.

orders Its primary object is to bring the right worker and work knowing as much as possible about the requirements of both and carefuUy selecting

Room 208

We do this even at the expense of a little of your time because by knowing facts in regard to these employees directly from you we can make them more efficient workers.

Thanking you in advance for filling out the enclosed blank and soliciting your help in telling us of future opportunities in your establishment, we remain,

Boston

Before doing so, the Secretary desires your sanction and advice, this matter of your child's work is an important one, please come in person, if jiossihle, to

Boston Placement Bureau

Ca«op«racliul with the Public Schools and Emploswrs of Boston In Finding Suitable Emplojrment for Young People Just Entering Commercial and Industrial Life its primary object is to bring the right worker and work together by seeking to know as much as possible about the requirements of both. Its ultimate aim is to place permanently and well, and by intelligent supervision to develop its hoys and girls into efficient and contented working men and women.

Its Purpose Is

1. To try to keep in school by adrice, parttime work, or by scholarships, every child referred who, for any reason, is not ready for employment.

2. To find employment intelligently by carefully correlating (a) a thorough knowledge of the prospective employee - his physical condition, scholarship, general character, special aptitudes and ambitions, previous work record, and home influences - with (b) the requirements of the employer and the nature of the employment offered.

3. To help the employee by intelligent "after care" develop greater efficiency while at work; by this "follow up" system securing the te,stimony of the employer as to the employee's individual needs and bringing this employee into touch with the correspondinii educational and recreational resources of his community so that he may thus develop his powers not only as an employee but as a citizen.

Since the Bureau was established in May 1912, over five thousand children have been registered from more than one hundred day and evening elementary, continuation. Industrial and high schools and school centers. In May 1915, the Department of Vocational Guidance was established by the Boston School Committee. The Bureau has been at the service of this department in its placement of high school pupils. The Bureau also has been affiliated with the public libraries where working boys and girls have been met in the various branches in districts where there are no school centers.

The function of the Bureau is to be carefully distinguished from that of an employment agency. It charges no fee for its services and cannot always fill "rush orders." The Bureau feels that it has proved its value not only in eliminating Juvenile non-employment to some extent but in lessening the amount of adolescent restlessness in employment.

Rules Of The Bureau

1. Not to leave any positioR secured through this Bureau without first reporting your complaints to us and waiting for our reply. We may be able to help you remedy the difficulty.

An Illustration Of The Different Phases Of The Work

June 1. School record received at Placement Bureau. Secretary notes, among many points, that T. exceeds a fair scholarship record in drawing and manual training only. Mark in mathematics is poor. Times sick - many; times tardy - none. Teeth bad. Character - honest and stubborn.

June 15. Secretary meets T. in evening at S. B. branch library and adds to the school analysis his personal observations. Advises T. to have his teeth treated.

June 17. Secretary calls at home in the evening. Meets father, city laborer, who wants T. to learn a trade. Is proud of older son - a tool maker,

It will be noted that the Secretary has matched up boy and job after a knowledge of the boy himself, school record, home conditions and the place of employment has been gained. He has visited the home, consulted the parent, and made use of the branch library where T. was introduced to some of the mechanical magazines.

Jan. 1. Secretary has seen T. several times at the S. B. School Center and learned that he likes his place and now sees the need of mathematics.

Employer reports that he is ready to start T. at machine work, but says he is poor at figures and out sick too much. Secretary is now able to persuade T. to have teeth fixed and to enter one of the evening industrial schools. In this case the Secretary has made use of the educational and recreational resources of the city. He has followed out the further purpose of the Placement Bureau, securing a report from the employer and by counseling the boy in order that he may become a more efficient and contented workman and citizen.

Typical Examples

Scholarship in High School was above the average, conduct good. Teacher's estimate showed him to be steady and persistent. When he registered with the Placement Bureau he showed no preference for work except that it be some business opportunity where he could advance.

Was placed by Bureau with large wholesale furniture establishment for two weeks' trial doing clerical work. At end of the two weeks, the employer reported that H. was slow at arithmetical calculation. This would hinder his advancement with the firm as he would always have much of that work to do. In every other way H. was more than satisfactory. Secretary agreed that under these conditions, H. had better leave their employ.

H. reported at Bureau that he had been treated very well. Felt he was extra slow in "figuring" on account of lack of practice. Secretary directed him how to overcome his handicap by devoting two hours a day to drills in arithmetic. After two weeks he was much quicker and more accurate. He was then placed by the Bureau with an electrotyping firm doing general office work. He is still with this firm. Reports to Secretary about every two months at School Centers. Likes his work and firm reports him very satisfactory.

B. was born in Russia in 1896, of Swedish parents. Came to America six years ago. Registered with Bureau in October 1914. Had entered High School, and was doing housework for her board and $1.00 a week. B, was ambitious for further education, but could not continue school under these conditions. Secretary consulted B.'s teachers and Head-master of the High School about advisability of scholarship. This was not recommended as B.'s record was only fair, due to lack of time for preparing lessons. As B. must earn her own living, teachers recommended work for the present, and evening school attendance if it could be arranged.

As B.'s ability was above the average of grammar school graduates, an opening was found in filing department of a concern dealing in library and office supplies. The question of a suitable home still remained as B.'s home conditions were unfortunate and she felt happier when independent. Room and board were found for her in a home for young women in the West End, from which she could walk to her work.

Her employer reported her work satisfactory except for lapses due to nervous attacks. As matron of Home reported evidence of serious trouble in this direction. Secretary toqk B. for examination to a specialist in nervous diseases, who recommended a course of treatment.

In January she was laid off on account of dull business and could not ".rmain at the Home without definite income. The hospital social worker suggested that new surroundings might be beneficial. As B. had had experience in caring for children during her summer work, she was placed as mother's helper in a very comfortable home in Dorchester. She has the care of two little girls, and the regular healthful life has made a great improvement in her nervous condition. Her employer is much pleased with her work and gives her opportunity for reading and recreation. B. now earns S5.00 a week in addition to her living and is saving toward future education.

Reported after graduation that she had saved about $200 for her tuition in the pre-medical course at Tufts College. She wished summer work in a doctor's office, but as a suitable opening was not found, she kept books for her father who has a small tailor's shop. That autumn, as her father's business was on the verge of bankruptcy, she turned over her savings to him and gave up the idea of going to medical school. In January she came to Bureau anxious for any sort of work to help the family. She preferred decidedly some p)osition connected with a hospital.

The Placement Secretary visited a well-known dispensary, and Superintendent became interested in A.'s case. Shortly afterwards an opening was found as assistant in dental clinic and laboratory at $25 a month. After working there a few weeks, A. came with her mother to see Secretary at the School Center. She was very happy to have such congenial work and spoke especially of the experience in the dental clinic. She has become interested in dentistry and realizes the opportunities for women in that profession. Her mother expressed gratitude to the Bureau for the interest taken in A.

The difficulty of securing permanent positions with opportunities for advancement for young people between the ages of fourteen and sixteen is daily increasing.