There were a few defections from the Society because of its expansion, but the record shows that the result was in no wise serious for the organization. An organization, like a human body, is made up of atoms or lives, and as growth proceeds these atoms are constantly changing their position and passing into and out of the body. The correspondence is very similar, except that in the case of this organization it is not the law of fatality which expels the atoms, but each has the free will to maintain his position in the growing body if he so desires, or to leave it. Each will choose as he desires, and we have not the right to attempt to compel them. We have but to perform our full duty in every department of our lives, and the recorders of karma will adjust the conditions and the result. I congratulate the members of Universal Brotherhood Lodge No. 7 on the work of the closing year and the prospects of the coming one. Fraternally, AMOS J. JOHNSON, Secretary. SAN FRANCISCO, December 21, 1898. LOTUS HOME. BUFFALO, N. Y., Dec. 29, 1898. DEAR LEADER:— I wish it were in my power to express to you all the sweetness and quiet joy of the first Christmas, at Lotus Home, and the only thing that was lacking, was the presence (in the physical body) of the precious “Lotus Mother,” for it was such a delightful experience, so full of hope and promise, that we wanted you there to share it with us. Truly the spirit of “Peace on Earth, Good Will to all Men” brooded over the Home and spread its wings over all that are working and ministering to the tiny “Buds” there. It is wonderful to see the improvement in them as the days go on, since Dr. Kean has taken them in hand; she understands all their little needs and with Miss Morris’ gentle and unceasing care and attention they are growing as strong and beautiful as the most exacting could desire. The atmosphere surrounding them is so serene and full of unselfish brotherly love that the unfoldment into health and beauty of mind and body has begun early, and we feel sure that they will grow to lovely “Blossoms by and bye” and be workers for Humanity on the broadest lines of “Universal Brotherhood.” There was the Christmas Tree, filled with lights and all the “shining things,” and the sweet odor of the fragrant boughs filled the rooms, the babies and all the household gathered around it with the members of our family also, at twilight, and if any one thinks a lot of wee babies do not enjoy the fun of a Christmas tree, let them come here and see “ours,” they stared and laughed and took in all the loveliness, as wisely as the older ones of us. Little Katherine was so overcome with prolonged staring and nodding her head with approval, that she fell asleep in the midst of it, no doubt continuing the lovely vision in her dreams.