With a view to popularise the Y.M.I.A. and bring the members into closer bonds of friendship with each other, the Executive Committee have arranged for a series of social gatherings and lectures. The first of these was held yesterday evening [September 17] in the Gokhale Hall [in Madras]. In response to the invitation many guests young and old were present. The guests were treated to light refreshments, after which a variety entertainment of national songs, vocal and instrumental, and comic was provided. Mrs. Besant then addressing the audience spoke on the need of such gatherings.