and to generally assist in obtaining time for rest and
recreation, and promote better and healthier conditions for
hairdressers."]

[Illustration: HAIR AND HEXERCISE; OR, TAKING THE HAIR ON A 'OLE
'OLIDAY.]

Dear BOB,--There's a stir in our noble Profession.
The hope of the Hairdresser, silent so long,
At last, like most others, is finding expression.
We've started, dear BOB, and are now going strong.
Early Closing's our object, which means that on _one_ day
We want to shut up shops and scissors at five!
Perhaps Saturday's best, BOB, as coming next Sunday--
Don't seem asking _much_, if they'd keep us alive.

You cannot imagine how grinding our trade is--
Long hours, and long waits, BOB, when custom is slack!
When the premises hold one old gent and two ladies,
'Tis hard for twelve chaps to be kept on the rack.
To knock off at five on a Saturday eases
Our week's work a little. One evening in six
Ain't more than the Public can spare--if it pleases--
If only its hours 'twill conveniently fix.

When a swell wants a shave, a shampoo, or a clipping,
He likes to drop in at _his_ pleasure, no doubt;
But surely he'd not keep us scraping and snipping
To save him from being a trifle put out!
If he'll but get fixed before five on a Saturday,