The Department's action in providing facilities under exceptionally favourable conditions whereby the members of the railway service may gain a good general knowledge of “First Aid” is much appreciated.

The “giving of service” is generally accepted in the sense of “giving of labour for remuneration,” but it should be realised that the term has a much fuller application. The fact of the Department's placing within reach of every railwayman the opportunity of becoming proficient in “First Aid” is an act of service to the employee. The practical acceptance of this offer by the servant is not, on his part, an act of service to the Department alone, but to his fellow employees and to humanity in general. By acquiring knowledge in “First Aid” one is prompted by the humane feeling to be ever ready and in a position to aid a fellow being in unfortunate circumstances through accident or sudden illness. In perhaps few callings are accidents more likely to occur than in that of the railway where, from varied and numerous causes, members are daily subjected to risks involving physical injury.

The enthusiasm displayed in this direction by the staff throughout the Dominion reveals that the railwayman is desirous of rendering this humane service.

To what extent the recently inaugurated classes in Wanganui will ultimately develop, is at present difficult to foresee, but since the inception of the scheme approximately 120 members have given their regular attendance at three classes under the direction of Dr. Christie and Mr. J. Scott of East Town Shops.

In the western district well supported classes are established at New Plymouth, Hawera and Marton, and a class at Stratford is being formed-truly an indication of the desire of the railwayman to “render service.”