THE past year was certainly a more encouraging one than its predecessor for Life-boat Saturday workers. It goes without saying that the majority of the demonstrations and outdoor entertainments, such as processions, galas, garden parties and street collections, promoted in the interests of the movement, must be held during the summer months if they are to meet with any success at all; and the summer of 1906 was without doubt almost a record one for the abundance of its gloriously warm and sunny days throughout, so fully suitable for the work. No complaints could therefore be made, at all events as far as England and Wales were concerned, on this score ; indeed, if anything, the weather was at times a little too warm for the activities of some of the lady workers.

It must be agreed, however, on all hands that, taking everything into consideration, the result of the efforts for the year were highly satisfactory and very encouraging. Heavy work continuously carried on but productive of small success, if not of absolute failure, is not calculated to inspire enthusiasm and zeal, whereas on the other hand good returns and a fair amount of success tend to encourage even the most faint-hearted. It is said to be "a long lane that has no turning," and it may we think be confidently hoped that the bad times which have for several years past spread a gloom over our country and people may now have begun to give way to better, brighter and more prosperous days. Everyone understands that if trade is good, and satisfaction as a result leavens the population, the charities, so numerous in our country, will profit thereby. This being so, all friends to the Life-boat cause, as represented by the ROYAL NATIONAL LIFEBOAT INSTITUTION, may we think be justifiably sanguine in increasing their efforts—and we trust these will not be relaxed—to secure increased financial support for the work in the current year; resting assured that they will reap if they fault not, and that their success will mean increased efficiency in one of the oldest and most successful life-saving organisations in the world.