A paper was issued, called The Fair White Ribbon, and fifteen thousand copies distributed freely on the grounds. For two years the paper was edited by Mrs. H.R. Edgett, when, her health failing, Mrs. Ferguson acted as editor and publisher. Advertisements were secured by Mrs. Ferguson, and a handsome profit of $139 was the result the second year, and $147 the third year; while the good accomplished through the presence and efforts of our standard-bearers on the grounds cannot be measured. In 1891 the Department of Coffee Houses was added to the social lines, and Mrs. S. W. Stoddard, of Horseheads, was placed at the head of the department. No change has been made in the superintendency, and a new impetus has been given to this work since it has been made a department.
POLITICAL.
The Woman's Christian Temperance Union has frequently been called a political institution. While we smile over the accusation, knowing how small a part woman can occupy in the politics of this country, yet with great earnestness we back up the smile with the thought that when we are a political institution—or, more properly speaking, a voting institution—the backbone of the liquor power will be broken, the saloon must go, and the era of happy hearts and happy homes will be ushered in. That we have always taken an interest in politics is true, and always on the right side. Away back in 1876 we find the following:
Resolved, That, in view of the present political crisis, we as Christian women effectively urge upon all voters with whom we have influence that they cast their votes only for total abstinence candidates.
In 1883 our convention received the following telegram from Syracuse:
To the Woman's Christian Temperance Union of New York State:
Prohibitory party convention sends greeting. Where you lead with prayers, we will follow with votes.
The reply sent is found in Joshua i., 9.
The convention of 1884 adopted the following resolution, only twelve voting against it: