President Roosevelt has made a good start as a reformer, and lias de clared his intention of abolishing the old and time-dishonoured practice of apportioning "the Spoils to the Victors" which has wrought so much evil in the past. He declares that party allegiance and services shall not during his term of office be the chief, if not only, re commendation for public employment, which will be given to those best suited for it, irrespective of party considera tions. If the new President cm carry out this intention he wiH confer upon hia fellow wuntry-m'«n a priceless boon, and go far towards cleaning the U.S. Augean stable, which has hecopte, choked with the evil-swelling records of public -wrongs wrought fey ''Bosses/

A council meeting of the above was held last evening, when . important business was transacted in connection with the opening meeting, to, be held the week previous to the annual gather ing 6f the N.Z.B.A.
Very encouraging replies were re ceived from corps outside the district, and entries "were promised from New Plymouth, Hawera, Patea,' Stratford, Marton, Feilding, Palmerston North, etc.
. Lieutenant-Colonel Watt and' Captain Hughes (Wanganui Bifl.es) • were appointed a sub-committee to -draw up a programme for a two days'- meeting. ■ The. issuing of an important circular to ■ officers , commanding all Volunteer corps and captains of Rifle clubs, relat ive to the successful carrying out of the Association's first meeting was left in the hands of the secretary, (Captain MoNaught). Already some thirty entries have been promised from outside sources, and judging by the enthusiasm shown by the local Council at its meeting last night, a highly successful meeting is assured.
We understand the Council meet ia a. tevr <3ays to receive tile report of the sub-committee.
