The Landswoman 2012 | Page 4

l>ttcrmbC'r, I fJ E f \ '\ n<;\\ 0:\f.\ '\ 1 q 20 Christmas Greetings To ''The Landswoman" from the MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE. I fully realise the important part that women have to play in the rural life of this country, and every movement which can give them help and encouragement in their work, either on the land itself, or as home-makers in the villages, has my warmest sympathy. I welcome, therefore, the excel1ent progress which has been made by the newly formed National Association of Landswomen, which carries on the splendid war tradition of the Women's Land A rmy. • There are, no doubt, difficulties to be overcome, but women's special gifts, and proved experience in many farming operations will, I am convinced, be of material assist- ance in the deliberations of the new County Committees and Councils of Agriculture, and I attach much value to their co-operation in agricultural reconstruction. Meanwhile, I send to every reader of the " Landswoman " my best wishes that Christmas may bring them the real happiness and satisfaction which come from a sense of work well done in the interests of their country . , • , .. • VOCATlON.* This be my ptlgnmage and goal, Datly to march and find The secret phrases of the soul, The evangels of the mind. While easy tongues are lightly heard, Let me w1th them be great Who still upon the perfect word As heavenly fowlers wait. In taverns none will I be seen But can my daemon teach My cloudy thought to wash aH dean In the bright sun of speech. John Drinkwater. "Cop, ri.bt fo U.S,A. by Scribaera