Annual Meeting at Rushden

The annual meeting of the Rushden branch of the British Women's Temperance Association was held at the Independent Wesleyan Schoolroom on Wednesday evening, when a large number of ladies were in attendance. Mrs. M. K. Parkin presided, and the election of officers resulted in Mrs. Parkin being re-elected president, with Mrs. J. Tailby and Mrs. J. Sargent as secretaries. Miss E. Wilmott was elected treasurer, and Mesdames Robinson, White, Brown, Hartwell, sen., Crick, Bellingham, Smith, Ladds, Wright, Hulatt, Brightwell and Wooding, committee. The president gave a short address, after which Mrs. Tailby gave her annual report, which showed that the good work of the Rushden branch had progressed satisfactorily. Several good meetings had been held, and had had the effect of stimulating the interest in the Association's endeavours. Thanks were due to Mrs. Smith (of Dean), Mrs. Lloyd Pratt (Wellingborough), Miss Tinling (London), and Mrs. Lamb (London), for addresses, etc., during the year, and entertainments with meetings had also been held, supported by local friends and the local ministry. Mrs. Tailby concluded an able report by urging the members to work with the main object of the betterment of the classes in view, and to extend temperance principles in home circles. They wanted the B.W.T.A. initials to stand for Brave, Winsome, Temperance Advocates, so that they might succeed in battling with the great drink foe. Several matters of close connection with the work of the Association was then discussed, and the reports were adopted. After the meeting light refreshments were provided, and the meeting pleasantly ended by this participation in the cheering cup.

B.W.T.A. - Mrs. Parkin presided at a meeting on Tuesday in the Old Baptist school-room. Mrs. Tailby, delegate to the London conference last week gave an interesting account of the proceedings. Solos were ably sung by Miss Green and Miss Maddock, and a duet by the Misses Maddock. Refreshments were served during the evening.