1 1892, and the world trembles on the brink of change. Amazing new technology such as the train and the telegraph connect people as never before. Dangerous new ideas about democracy and human rights are being hotly debated and shared between major centres of the world ` London, Paris, New York and... Christchurch. MOMENTOUS MUSIC In this charming residence, situated some 3 miles from the centre of Christchurch suffragists are gathering to celebrate. After a decade's effort, NZ women could soon win the right to vote regardless of class, race or creed. An effort coordinated by this woman ` Hello. Yes, welcome. Mrs Kate Sheppard ` superintendent of the suffrage department of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, editor and writer, leader of the struggle for votes for women and mother to one son. What's the occasion? Well, now, the Electoral Bill, which includes the right for women to vote, has now been debated by the Upper House and, with some small amendments, sent back down to the Lower House. and, with some small amendments, sent back down to the Lower House. And is that a bad thing? No, no, on the contrary. The Lower House only has to agree to these amendments, and it becomes law. This time, we shall win. This time, we shall win. Ah, now, Will. As you know, we have been close before. William Smith ` Printer, close friend and suffrage supporter; like Kate, a devout Christian, non-conformist, vegetarian and teetotal. I met Mrs Sheppard nearly 10 years ago when she joined our little church choir. She has a very pleasant voice. I often visit on Saturday afternoons... to discuss the latest pamphlets or news from abroad. (CHUCKLES) Our little political saloon, she calls it. Please, help yourself to water or unfermented grape juice. Please, help yourself to water or unfermented grape juice. Thank you. Kate. Jennie Smith, active campaigner for women's rights and devoted wife... to William Smith. My darling Jennie. Oh, I'm so pleased you could be here today. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Good afternoon. My husband, Mr Sheppard. My husband, Mr Sheppard. I'm on my way to town now. Good luck. Good luck. Thank you. (PANTS) Oh, it's you. It is. It is. Proddy dog. It is. Proddy dog. She'll... want that right away. Ralph Benner is 14 years old. His parents are shopkeepers, good Baptists. Ralph is a curious boy. Ma'am. Well, look what I have. A telegraph from Wellington from our friend, Mr Saunders. Do you think we should`? ALL: Yes! Mrs Sheppard wrote to me some years ago, seeking my support for the cause of temperance, and since that time, we have become close friends. She's the only one I know who can make unfermented grape juice seem elegant. Alfred Saunders ` maverick Liberal Member for Selwyn, devout non-conformist, teetotal and prohibitionist. Those of us representing the women's cause have moved an amendment to the government Electoral Reform Bill, where the word 'man' is to be struck out in order to insert 'person'. The natural inference is that up to Anno Domini 1892, a woman was not a person in the eyes of the law. As she was not a person, she was necessarily a thing ` a thing created solely for the pleasure of man. It is all right. It is all right. SEVERAL EXCLAIM READS: 'Unconditionally accepted. You have got the franchise. I should be home on Sunday. 'Hoist your colours high.' We have done it. We have done it. You have done it. Speech. Speech. Yes, speech. Oh, dear friends, as you know, last year, we sent Parliament a petition signed by over 10,000 women, requesting the right to vote. Our prayer was narrowly defeated in the Upper House by two votes. Boo. Boo. This year, we redoubled our efforts, and more than 20,000 women signed. And now at last we shall become the first self-governing British colony and, indeed, the first nation in the world where women shall have the right to vote. ALL CHEER To our many friends and supporters, we offer our heartfelt thanks and propose a toast. For God, home and humanity. ALL: God, home and humanity. And to the many good men who made this possible. Mr Speaker, it is conceded to be unjust and inexpedient that one half of the adult population, who must obey the laws of the colony, should have no voice in making those laws. Sir John Hall ` former premier, Member for Christchurch; Conservative, Anglican and immensely rich; described by some as a devious manipulator and supporter of votes for women to counter the votes of working class men. So the time has arrived when women should no longer, in the matter of political right, be placed on the same footing as infants, lunatics and criminals. Cant and humbug! Order, order. These old gentlemen, they want to use the women ` if they can ` for their own ends! LAUGHTER The Honourable gentleman is going beyond the rules of debate. Henry Fish Jr ` self-styled champion of the working man, father to 13 children, described as corrupt, immoral and close companion of a well-known brothel keeper. The Honourable Member presents there is no need to discuss the subject further. How dare he say that?! How dare he! When the Fish gets going, I find myself in need of a little brandy. Yes, it's been my privilege to provide advice to Mrs Sheppard over the years. She's a charming woman. If the Members vote in favour of this amendment, the radicals of the Tailoresses Union and the temperance societies will be the first to get their names on the roll, and... every man here will have cause to regret... (COUGHS) (COUGHS) ...pandering to the demands... John Ballance ` Premier of NZ and not a well man. ...of the shrieking sisterhood. I have already telegraphed Mrs Sheppard of our success. Don't you think that premature? Don't you think that premature? Well, Mr Ballance himself assured me we had the numbers. Then why is Seddon looking so pleased with himself? I say anyone can have parrots. My auntie's got a parrot. They've got this big chest full of treasure as well. Richard Seddon ` Liberal, known as King Dick; self-made man, West Coast friend to miners; described by a parliamentary colleague as being only 'partially civilised'. What nonsense. What else? He said, 'Well, my mother had one eye, father had a wooden leg.' ALL LAUGH If I am reluctant to inflict the franchise on women, it's out of respect. Aren't you afraid they might support prohibition? Aren't you afraid they might support prohibition? No, no. Not at all. But you do own a public bar. (CLEARS THROAT) My wife and I have been married over 23 years now, and I love and respect her as my true helpmeet. Women are the virtue and compassion in our society. To have them mix it with men in the dirty pit of politics would be to, well, bring down angels and make devils of them. But, uh, if women were to get the vote, I would sooner they voted for me. Gentlemen. There's to be a conference on the women's issue. But the matter's already settled. But the matter's already settled. Ah, now, sir, you're not a betting man, are you? The horses have yet to cross the line. Oh, you haven't heard? The Premier, Mr Ballance, has taken ill, and I've been left to support his causes... as best I can. Gentlemen. I move the amendment of the following new clause ` that the right granted to women to vote shall not be so exercised until the electors have been given the opportunity to vote on the question. Rubbish. Back again? Oh, you poor little thing, are you all done in? Back again? Oh, you poor little thing, are you all done in? No. Off you go, then. Off you go, then. Who are you to tell me what to do? You're just a girl. Papist pig. And you are going to burn in the fires of Hell for all eternity. And you are going to burn in the fires of Hell for all eternity. Am not. Would you like a drink of water and a bite to eat? Yes. Yes. Come on, then. I hope you like your veggies raw. Raw? Raw? According to Ma'am, it's good for the blood. Jolly good. Jolly good. You must be absolutely thrilled. Jolly good. You must be absolutely thrilled. Ah, the faddists have arrived. I think they look rather fetching. I think they look rather fetching. Our knickerbocker zealots. I think they look rather fetching. Our knickerbocker zealots. It makes perfect sense to me. Simply top-hole. Perhaps we could all take our machines and cycle. Perhaps we could all take our machines and cycle. Yes, a victory formation. BRIDGET: Ma'am. BRIDGET: Ma'am. Oh, excuse me. Ah, a letter from our friend Mr Saunders again. READS: 'You shall get the suffrage, but... 'only on the condition it is re-affirmed by general election.' Cowards. Cowards. Shame. Excuse me. What does that mean? The government wishes to use the next general election as a referendum to test the water. I believe we must accept this compromise. This referendum's dangerous. If they get the vote once, they won't give it back. I ain't finished yet. I fear that someone might bring to the House the vexing subject of electors' rights. Electors'`? (CHUCKLES) And they say I'm the slippery one. And they say I'm the slippery one. (CHUCKLES) Tell me, what are electors' rights? Oh, they allow for itinerant workers ` sailors, shearers and the like ` to have a postal vote. And why is that a concern? And why is that a concern? It causes me no concern. Conservatives would have all women vote in that way rather than at the polling booths with the men. And why is that an issue? And why is that an issue? Women will still have the vote. By post? By post? It is still the vote. Subject to interference by the head of the household, their employer or any man who would impose his will. It is a compromise, but a compromise I'm prepared to take. Oh, you would say that. Oh, you would say that. I beg your pardon. Do you deny that the postal vote favours the rural households, business owners and therefore the Conservative cause, coincidentally, your own? and therefore the Conservative cause, coincidentally, your own? So you will vote against the motion? It is an insult against the most basic of democratic principles and the sanctity of the private ballot. Then that is your decision. Once a Tory, always a Tory, aye? Once a Tory, always a Tory, aye? Sir, I think this conversation is at an end. Sir John has proven himself to be a false friend. He promotes his own agendas and those of the Conservatives at any cost. RIP! (PANTS) Mr Saunders writes again. READS: 'I was deceived in what I last telegraphed, and Parliament has... 'has proved at the last moment that the publicans are their friends and women their dupes. 'The bill had been compromised and could not be passed. 'We have lost any chance of gaining the vote this year.' Bloody cowards. Bloody cowards. PEOPLE MURMUR Here's to the right of every man to a well-earned drink and to our politics free from interfering women. (LAUGHS) Well, uh, three telegraphs from Mr Saunders all in one day taking us from certain victory to resounding defeat. I'm sorry. It appears we have wasted your time. Will you excuse me? Will you excuse me? Of course. 1 1 Ma'am's at it again ` right in front of` Ma'am's at it again ` right in front of` That'll do, girl. I'll be off to Invercargill now. Probably be a week or so. I'll be off to Invercargill now. Probably be a week or so. Safe journey. DOOR OPENS > DOOR CLOSES > DOOR CLOSES > It's a strange sort of marriage, if you ask me. Ma'am is often out at meetings and concerts, and more often than not, it's with Mr Smith. Bridget O'Flaherty ` age 16, born Sydenham, Christchurch. She works 12 hours a day, six and a half days a week and receives �15 a year ` and board. I expect I'll marry, I should hope, before I turn 21 ` or else be an old maid. Would your mother vote? My ma works every minute God sends cooking and cleaning, and the younger six are still at home. She's worn out, and so's my da, and I've never known him to vote even if he can. Bridget? > Here, Ma'am. Is it right that your mother, your sister, your wife or your daughter should be classed with criminals and lunatics or treated as aliens from a foreign country? Is it right that while the loafer, the gambler, the drunkard and even the wife beater has a vote, earnest, educated and refined women are denied it? Is it right`? (SIGHS) What is it, Bridget? Is it right`? (SIGHS) What is it, Bridget? Mr Smith, ma'am. Excuse me. Walter is in Invercargill, and I am planning a new garden. Shouldn't we be preparing our next assault upon parliament? Shouldn't we be preparing our next assault upon parliament? I don't know, Will. After all the speeches and meetings, so much... talking. All those words you have printed for us. With God's help, we shall prevail. Yes. Yes. Speak of the devil. Yes. Speak of the devil. CHUCKLES: Will. Splendid afternoon, Father. Oh dear. (CHUCKLES) Although Will and Kate are devout Christians, not all churchmen approve of women voting, much less women cyclists. (LAUGHS) Surely I can't be the first lady cyclist he's ever seen. LOUDLY: Shall we ride? LOUDLY: Shall we ride? We shall! CHICKENS CLUCK UPLIFTING MUSIC Oh my gosh! Oh! Oh! (LAUGHS) I'll race you. I'll race you. Go on, then. Don't cut me off. Don't cut me off. (LAUGHS) (SQUEALS) I was a teacher before I married, but gave it up and willingly so. It is within the women's sphere to be a wife and mother and a loving and equal partner with her husband. If he be the head of the household, surely she's the heart. (CHUCKLES) Will and I have been blessed with eight children, and I am expecting my ninth. If Jennie Smith is aware of the gossip around town that her husband is known as the man with two wives, she'll never say. Mrs Sheppard only has the one son, so it's natural she should devote more time to her good works, to which my husband is also committed. Perhaps` And I mean this as the highest praise,... perhaps she has more of a man's mind. She-man! She-man! She-man! She-man! She-man! She-man! BOYS: She-man! BOYS: She-man! Oi! You boys! BOYS: She-man! Oi! You boys! BOYS: Run! Hey! Hey! Oh! I know your faces! I'll have the constable round, I will. (LAUGHS) Little monsters. They're only repeating what they've heard their elders say. Oh, my knight in muddy trousers. I am considering your sister's advice to invest in knickerbockers. I am considering your sister's advice to invest in knickerbockers. Now, that's where I draw the line. Phew. Katie, what happens now? Do we go on fighting for the vote? Of course. And if we win,... then what? Political representation, the right to equal work for equal pay and full social and legal equality with` I'm not talking about slogans. Will. I love you, Katie. You know that. Yes, I know. But let's stop this, now` But let's stop this, now` If I could change this world, it would be so we could be together. But we are together... in the only way we can be. And I have the best, most loyal friend anyone could ever wish for. Father Dunn says that God only made man in his image, not woman. He calls them suffragists terrible things ` ugly and loud-mouthed and cranks. Not that he's referring to Ma'am specifically. Would I sign the petition if I were 21? No, I would not. Now that the issue of the vote is no longer pressing,... You think not? You think not? ...there is still much to be done. The issue of barmaids, for example. But surely we agree. If a woman has the vote, she's more likely to choose men who support temperance. Yes, but we don't have the vote, do we? Mrs Emma Packe, widow of the late Colonel Packe of the 2nd Canterbury Rifle Volunteers; devout evangelist, once described as the leader of the Hallelujah Lasses; and national president of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. In the meantime, these girls are subject to the most degrading of conditions. They simply must be banned from working in all public houses. Jesus, Joseph and Mary. But if they're suddenly made unemployed, they could turn to prostitution. I have heard that theory. Where is the milk? Excuse me. I'll admit Mrs Sheppard and I have not always seen eye to eye. At my late husband's funeral, there was permitted to be no music. I think that tells you a great deal of the differences between us. They're talking nonsense, and I don't mind saying so. They're talking nonsense, and I don't mind saying so. < Bridget? Coming, ma'am. My sister's down Dunedin at the Grand Hotel. Earns twice as much as I do ` more with tips ` and she always sends some of it home. I understand you're concerned with this new ladies institute. The Canterbury Women's Institute, yes. A forum to discuss current social, political and religious issues. Accepting Catholics, socialists, Jews? Whatever next? Sceptics? If they are prepared to pay their membership fee. I intend to move at our national conference that only women born again in the spirit of Jesus Christ are eligible to be office holders. I say this merely to let you know. And I intend to oppose it... again. The Women's Christian Temperance Union? It's not` The Women's Christian Temperance Union? It's not` It's not really us. We at the Canterbury Women's Institute are less concerned with the prohibition of alcohol and we are open to... and we are open to... BOTH: ...both sexes. James Wilkinson, librarian, and his lover and former student, Katrine Walker. Fabian socialists and bohemians, they believe passionately in dress reform. The knicker costume... exactly suits the healthy undistorted form of woman, who, on donning it, at once feels... BOTH: ...a delightful freedom... BOTH: ...a delightful freedom... ...and immediate desire for active muscular exercise. Which will undoubtedly enable women to enjoy a higher... BOTH: ...companionship... BOTH: ...companionship... with men and lead inevitably to` ...equality between the sexes... ...equality between the sexes... BOTH: ...in all things. (SIGHS) Parliament is in recess for another year. The wheel of political fortune has once more stopped spinning, and the Electoral Bill, allowing for the enfranchisement of women, after being tossed from Lower House to Upper House and back again, has been dropped once more. But, I can assure you, we have no intention of leaving it there. 1 Sir George Whitmore, Henry Fish. Sir George Whitmore, Henry Fish. Fish? Unfortunate name. Sir George Whitmore, owner of large estates in the Hawkes Bay, Member of the Upper House; firmly opposed to granting the franchise to women. As a rule, I wouldn't sit at the same table as men such as these ` coarse opportunists, mountebanks. However, these are unusual times. They'll be planning their next assault, these temperance agitators and blue stockings. Steady on, old boy. There's no need to descend to name calling. Sir George, I'm sure we all want the issue of the woman's vote to, uh, go away, but for some of us, there are political considerations. but for some of us, there are political considerations. I have no such concerns. No, of course. That's easy for him to say. Members of the Upper House, such as Sir George, are appointed by the government, whereas those of us in the Lower House live or die by the ballot. So if women get the vote, you don't want to be on the wrong side. Ah, now. I couldn't possibly comment. What say you? Can we count on your support on this issue? I'd say you are fools to have let it go this far. Everything in the world is free to a woman as long as she asks for it gracefully in a womanly way. Why thrust her into the rough world of politics? Perhaps Mrs Sheppard should take the advice of good society. My goodness! Is it right that a naturalised Chinaman or any other foreigner should have a vote, while women born in this country, educated in its schools and with a sincere love for their native land, are without a voice in the laws under which they live? Bridget. Ma'am. Ma'am. I did ask not to be interrupted. Ma'am. I did ask not to be interrupted. Yes, Ma'am. A caller, Ma'am. Oh, I see. Excuse me. OK. Mrs Sheppard. Mrs Sheppard. Will you take tea? Perhaps a small sherry. Dry. There is no alcohol in this house, I'm afraid. There is no alcohol in this house, I'm afraid. No, of course not. Lady Tancred ` the extremely rich widow of Baronet Tancred, large Canterbury landowner, income in excess of �12,000 per annum. I believe it to be the cause of many of our worst social evils. I believe it to be the cause of many of our worst social evils. Indeed. My late husband used to say it was impossible to be a gentleman and not to enjoy a good port wine. And yet, many do. You are more handsome than I expected. Thank you. Is all this agitation really necessary, my dear? Don't you already rule your house? Doesn't your husband already bend to your will? Pardon me, Lady Tancred. Was there a purpose to your visit? Do you honestly believe it will be a better world if my maid should have a vote, for my maid is a very stupid person. Then perhaps we should educate her. Then perhaps we should educate her. You'd have a better chance teaching my horse. If you gave my horse the vote, surely he'd vote for other horses and then we shall end up with a Parliament full of horses, or asses, perhaps. This country is going to hell. We have the liberals to thank. See where 'one man, one vote' has so far got us? See where 'one man, one vote' has so far got us? Halfway there? Rather fond of statistics. Oh, I can see you think you are very clever. Pity. (SIGHS) (SIGHS) DOOR OPENS, CLOSES > To make my position perfectly clear, a vote is a privilege, not a right. There is no inherent right for women to vote. No more or less than it is any man's right to vote. There's a number of masculine women anxious to press this point, but no ladies of my acquaintance want the franchise. Sir George should expand his circle of acquaintances. Good women will stay at home and not vote, so the ones who do will be rough and common and very likely vote Liberal. Do not good Conservative women go out to shop and attend church? Women are impulsive, irrational, more emotionally generous than men, which makes them good wives and mothers, but bad judges of politics. Or more likely to vote for morally superior politicians. Women are now protected by chivalry, but will lose that protection. The law currently protects the drunkard, the wife beater, the rapist, but not the wives of these 'chivalrous' men. It is known that women are more often under the sway of the clergy, who will gain far too much power over the state. But according to Sir George, they will vote the same way as their husbands. In any case, we cannot say whether the majority of men do or do not hold this view until it has been tested in a general election. The current government was elected on a platform that included a commitment to the women's vote. Lady Whitmore, by the way, is in complete agreement. She has my full sympathy. I wrote to nearly every Member in Parliament, and to judge by their replies, more are in favour of our cause than against. And yet, they argue and bicker over the smallest points and so allow the real issue to slip away. Of course. Duplicity and corruption are foreign to our nature. Perhaps a little match-making is in order. Feminine charm, you think? Ada Wells ` socialist, feminist and natural healer; Kate's ally and friend. Sir John. Sir John. My dear Mrs Sheppard. A pleasure as always. You remember my good friend, William Smith. You remember my good friend, William Smith. Oh, the printer. Yes, of course. Sir John. < Saunders. Tea, Sir John? Thank you. Now,... (CHUCKLES) I am in desperate need of advice, and as you have both given such wise and consistent counsel over so many years, I thought it best to consult you both. And so here we are. Thank you. Since our franchise bill was defeated,... Since our franchise bill was defeated,... And we all know why. Because the Liberals opposed it. ...despite the best intentions of good men on both sides of the House. ...despite the best intentions of good men on both sides of the House. Aye. We have no political favourites. We have no political favourites. I can respect a wrong-headed, consistent Tory, but an evasive, tricky Liberal is a nauseous thing to swallow. I mean Seddon. Quite. Quite. I have never blindly followed this government, but have always followed the dictates of my own conscience. but have always followed the dictates of my own conscience. Wonderful. Because we feel the time has come, to make public our dissatisfaction. Because we feel the time has come, to make public our dissatisfaction. Indeed? Arrangements have been made to occupy the Oddfellows hall this coming Friday and present this motion expressing our deep dismay at the actions of this government in rejecting the Electoral Bill. Now, I thought perhaps this motion should be moved first by Mr Saunders, as it is critical of his own party and then seconded by Sir John. But I am happy to be corrected on this point, Sir John. But I am happy to be corrected on this point, Sir John. No. No, that sounds most sensible. Oh, I am glad. Oh, I am glad. (CLEARS THROAT) Naturally, I'm happy to help in any way. As am I. As am I. Then it's settled. Gentlemen, as always, I remain in your debt. (CHUCKLES) # With the cross of Jesus # going on before. # Christ, the royal master, # leads against the foe. # Forward into battle, # see his banners glow. # Onward Christian soldiers # marching as to war. # We now invite the Member for Selwyn, Mr Alfred Saunders, to present the first resolution of this meeting. (MOUTHS WORDS) (MOUTHS WORDS) Thank you, James. It is the opinion of this meeting that the action of the Government in electing to reject the whole Electoral Bill rather than accept the amendments enfranchising women to vote is very much to be regretted and does not appear consistent with any earnest desire to secure the boon that was so evidently placed within their immediate reach. AUDIENCE APPLAUDS Who will second this motion? Who will second this motion? I will. Who will second this motion? I will. Thank you, Sir John. All those in favour. All those in favour. I wish to speak to the resolution... MAN: Here, here. MAN: Here, here. ...and propose that in the opinion of this meeting, the government did quite right in dropping the Electoral Bill... the government did quite right in dropping the Electoral Bill... Well said. ...and rejecting the amendments added by the lackeys of the Conservatives. Because the compromise of a postal vote is entirely unacceptable. Because the compromise of a postal vote is entirely unacceptable. Too right. I second that motion. Point of order. We already have a resolution before us. Then let's vote on it. Go on. Then let's vote on it. Go on. Yeah. Yes. Yes, all right. All those in favour of Mr Saunders' resolution. All those in favour of Mr Saunders' resolution. SUPPORTERS: Aye! And all those against? And all those against? AGITATORS: Nay! AUDIENCE MURMURS (LAUGHS) Wanganui Herald says it all. Saunders hoist with his own petard. Sir John's idiot puppet. When ladies choose to meddle in politics, there will always be unscrupulous men poised to take advantage. Fools. Government spies! Government spies! They were exercising their democratic right. How can you be so tolerant? How can you be so tolerant? Oh, I'm not. Believe me when I say I am furious. We were set up by the government and Seddon. We were set up by the government and Seddon. I have no doubt. (SIGHS) Oh, Kate. Will, it's... it's late. I can't bear this. I can't bear this. I'm tired of talking about it. I can't bear this. I'm tired of talking about it. I don't mean damn politics. What are we to do? There's nothing we can do. Oh, that's enough, Will. Please... don't. Goodnight, Will. Goodnight, Mrs Sheppard. DOOR OPENS > DOOR CLOSES > # Rendezvous. # Make any moment magic with an enchanting boost of fragrance. 1 LAUGHTER Gentlemen. Gentlemen. Ladies. Have you heard? Our Mr Fish is standing for Mayor of Dunedin. Not if Miss Morison has her way. No, I hear her union is very keen to have Fish removed from the menu. (LAUGHS) Ladies, how are we? Very well, thank you. Very well, thank you. All right. Afternoon, sir. Lovely to see you. Ah, Miss Morison. Always a pleasure. Harriet Morison, born Londonderry, Northern Ireland; former tailoress, now secretary of the Tailoresses' Union, Dunedin. Our Lord Jesus Christ was founder and first leader of the Women's Franchise League. But I was a founding member of the Dunedin branch,... (CHUCKLES) the first in all NZ. I believe in trying to see the best in all people. there's not much that can't be solved with prayer and persuasion. But, oh, there is one man I can't abide, and I don't mind saying it. That... odious Mr Fish. I hear you're a candidate as our next Mayor. I hear you're a candidate as our next Mayor. What of it? You don't honestly believe you have a hope? You don't honestly believe you have a hope? The working men of Dunedin` ...go home to their wives, and what will they talk about? I'll tell you. Many wives have been to our meetings, where we've discussed a woman's right to vote. It's not a right. A woman's right is to look after her children, cook her husband's dinner, empty the slops and generally attend to the domestic and... marital affairs for which nature designed her. marital affairs for which nature designed her. Let me tell you, Mr Fish. A popular subject at our meetings is the poor ignorant politician who opposes suffrage and how we might facilitate his speedy departure from public life. Another reason you should not have the vote. Just telling you how the wind is blowing. I know a spinster who doesn't go home to her husband, as no man wants her. Says he who keeps company with a brothel keeper. Didn't Christ keep the company of prostitutes? Didn't Christ keep the company of prostitutes? (LAUGHS) Are you comparing yourself to our Saviour now? Will you be walking on water next? No. Just walking into office as your next mayor. God, help us. God, help us. Oh, I wouldn't rely on Him. And when I am mayor, you might find it safer to carry on your business elsewhere. Oh, dear me. Is that a threat, Mr Fish? Oh, it's a terrible thing to say to a poor defenceless woman such as myself. I shan't be able to sleep for fear! Poor, deluded man. I wrote to Sir John for his advice on how best to proceed. He suggests yet another petition. as the best way to demonstrate our unwavering desire for franchise. One cannot help but wonder at Sir John's true purpose. I can't see how yet another petition will help. We must keep in the public eye. We must keep in the public eye. If we can produce sufficient numbers. If we do any less, it's a weapon in the hands of our opponents. We all agree that the vote is important,... BOTH: ...of course,... BOTH: ...of course,... but that there are so many other... BOTH: ...of course,... but that there are so many other... BOTH: ...pressing issues. But we must do something, or momentum will be lost, and nothing will change. It is late in the year to be in need of a fire. You are tired. As are we all. Goodnight, Mama. Goodnight, ma'am. Goodnight, ma'am. Goodnight, Douglas. (CHUCKLES) What a very proper young gentleman. How are your children? How are your children? I do my best,... but how does one know what that means? One's 'best'? Sometimes I think you fortunate with only the one son to cherish. Sometimes I think you fortunate with only the one son to cherish. As you know, I have had my problems. I have had four children in as many years. I believe that's enough. I lost my last job when I fell pregnant. Do you encourage... interruptus? When he's sober, he takes responsibility. Other times, sea sponge soaked with vinegar. I... I have a husband who,... when sober, is... filled with remorse and tenderness. But when he drinks, he loses all restraint and would brutally force himself, which is completely legal within the domain of his home, which is his castle. But the worst of it ` my children are... completely aware. How can they not be corrupted by it? And what of the laws of heredity? They say an evil tree bears evil fruit. Shh, shh. Shh, shh. (SNIFFS) It will be all right. It will be all right. Will it? Will a vote change so very much? It is a place to begin. As long as it's not the end of it. We will send out the new petition before the summer so our women can take it with them wherever they go. 'The petition of the undersigned women, 'of the age of 21 years and upwards, 'resident in the colony of NZ, humbly sheweth that large numbers of women... '...in the colony have for several years 'petitioned Parliament to extend the franchise to them; that the justice... '...of the claim and the expediency of granting it, 'was, during the last session of Parliament, affirmed by both Houses, but that for reasons... '...not affecting the principle of women's franchise, its exercise has not... '...been provided for; that if such a provision is not made before the next general election, 'your petitioners will be denied the enjoyment of what has been admitted by Parliament to be a just right 'and will suffer grievous wrong. They therefore... '...earnestly pray your honourable House to adopt such measures 'as will enable women to record their votes for Members in the House of Representatives at the ensuing... '...general election. They further pray that your honourable House will pass no Electoral Bill 'which shall fail to secure women this privilege.' This time we must win, for I cannot see us having another chance. 1 I have a prepared a new prayer for our petition. I have sent this draft to Sir John, and he has approved it. Then I shall print it. Then I shall print it. We are aiming for 30,000. I fear we shall be lucky to find 25. I have faith in you. I understand congratulations are in order. For what reason? For what reason? A new baby girl, isn't it? It's Doris. Mother and daughter doing well. Do you wonder what kind of world your daughters will grow up in? Do you wonder what kind of world your daughters will grow up in? A brighter one, I should hope. Another petition. Could blow up in their faces, don't you think? I don't think. But if I did, I'd tell her to leave it alone. Don't you want a vote? Don't you want a vote? Couldn't care less. How else are you to... overcome the disabilities of your sex? Is that why you're always hanging about? Because of concern for our sex? No. No. Or... is it because you want to kiss me? Well, yes, of course. The petition has been mentioned in correspondence to the branches. I worry that some of our members have become... less enthusiastic. It has rather dragged on. And there is so much to be done. So it's important for those with a more enduring vision to keep the less committed on the right path. I suppose that is true. After all, we both firmly believe that extending the franchise to women will have the result of... purifying the atmosphere and raising moral standards, do we not? purifying the atmosphere and raising moral standards, do we not? Well, yes, of course. I shall be on to all our members and remind them to do their bit. I am so pleased to hear that, Mrs Packe. I have taken the liberty of preparing a map of our city with the streets and suburbs marked out for the canvassing of supporters. It's important to be thorough, don't you agree? It's important to be thorough, don't you agree? Well, yes. Now, if you could only encourage our members to take one section each. Yes, of course. Ah, here we are. Goodness. That's a lot of paper. Goodness. That's a lot of paper. It will be a very large petition. How fortunate I am to have a friendly printer when I need him. Isn't that so, Mr Saunders? Indeed. My dear? Where are we this afternoon? Where are we this afternoon? West Melton, I believe. Uh, Mrs Sheppard has been in great demand. > Honestly, I have almost lost the urge to speak. > What is there left to say except give the Irish answer? What is there left to say except give the Irish answer? And what is that? That there is no good or logical reason why women should not get the vote. (CHUCKLES) Thank you so much for seeing me. Thank you so much for seeing me. Oh, no bother at all. But you're just in time. I'm off to Auckland to knock that branch of the Tailoresses Union into shape. They're lagging behind. You're a busy woman, I know. You're a busy woman, I know. There's so much to be done. There are thousands of women ` working women ` who want a say in the running of the country. Only, between you and me, the well-meaning ladies of Christchurch can be a little... exclusive and their meetings are often dominated by men ` good men, but men all the same. (CHUCKLES) Our southern meetings are loud and large affairs. We make a point of having women speakers,... (CHUCKLES) as our Mr Fish discovered, to his loss. (LAUGHS) Did you hear Mr Fish lost his bid to be Dunedin's next mayor? His friends in Parliament best take note. So I can take it you support this new petition? Our members will do their bit, be sure of that. But what of our northern sisters? I have written to Mrs Reeves and others in Wellington. And in Auckland,... Mrs Daldy has taken to the field. Mrs Daldy has taken to the field. Oh, Mrs Daldy. My first husband drank. When he died, I resolved to marry a man who did not. My Mr Daldy believes that men who do not support votes for women are cowards. Mrs Amey Daldy, founding member of the Auckland Women's Christian Temperance Union, president of the Women's Franchise League and staunch Congregationalist. Sir, I wish this petition to be placed in plain view for all to see. Sir, I wish this petition to be placed in plain view for all to see. I` I'm sorry. Consider ` this is a draper's store and a large number of your customers women. Where will they go for their cloth and ribbon if it were known that you perpetuate the subjugation of women, which we know to be against God himself. For did he not give us both, man and woman, dominion over the earth and sea, and did he not say to Abraham, 'In all that Sarah hath said unto thee hearken unto her voice'? What of brave Boadicea, scourge of the Romans? Elizabeth, the warrior queen? Florence Nightingale or Miss Willard, world president of the WCTU and a host of other women who overcame the disabilities of their sex to do great things? Would you deny the intelligence and worth of these women? I thought not. At one house in the poorer district, the lady of the house said she could not sign. When I asked her why, she said she had to wait until her Tommy got home from school, as he had the family pen. (CHUCKLES) Wonderful. Thank you. Have you ever thought about wearing knickerbockers? You have a wonderful range of movement. You have a wonderful range of movement. Knickerbockers for everyone. I will return next week with fresh sheets. I will return next week with fresh sheets. PAPERWEIGHT BANGS DOOR OPENS, BELLS TINKLE Goodnight, Kate. Happy New Year. Happy New Year, Walter. There is much in the past year to comfort and cheer. Mr Fish was roundly defeated in Dunedin. And three times now has our wish for franchise been passed by the Lower House only to falter in the Upper House on a technicality. Our members are gathering signatures for a new petition to present to Parliament. Even so, there are times of despondency when the heart-sickness of hope deferred seems... overwhelming. Goodnight. 1 The New Year brought good news to Will and I. The Lord has blessed us, and I am with child again. (CHUCKLES) It will be our 10th. What of the response to Mrs Sheppard's petition? My wife has obliged with many signatures from ladies of her acquaintance. Yes, I understand Mr Ballance's wife has obtained a great many. Any news on the health of our premier? He is determined to see through the Liberal agenda, including the franchise. Good, good. Good, good. LAUGHTER Waiter? (LAUGHS) What's he got to be so happy about? I could not believe it when I heard that Henry Fish went and organised a petition of his own asking Parliament not to grant the franchise to women, paid for, no doubt, by his friends ` the brewers and liquor barons. Aye, they know full well when women get the vote, they'll be eligible not only to vote for the politician of their choice, but also... against the granting of liquor licences. (CHUCKLES) He must be a very frightened Fish. Indeed. I have reliable information that Fish is paying his canvassers 7 shillings for every 100 signatures obtained. (SIGHS) His petition is circulated in public houses, where patrons are bribed with the promise of free drinks. Mr Smith, Ma'am. William! Come, come. You're just in time. Lay the handle down here, Bridget. There's the girl. We'll just roll it. Careful now. Don't let it tear. William, can you feed it to us? William, can you feed it to us? Yes. Gently now. Gently. We will get there, and Mr Fish can go jump. We will get there, and Mr Fish can go jump. Into a pond? A very small pond. And I have this. A letter from our premier. Mr Ballance will introduce the Electoral Reform Bill early, and he will not allow the introduction of electoral rights or any distractions. That's wonderful news. I have finished my page for the Prohibitionist, and now... (CHUCKLES) I feel as though I've forgotten what the world looks like. Would you care to take a walk, Mr Smith? It would be my very great pleasure. < DOOR OPENS < DOOR CLOSES I fear I have a confession to make. Shall I be shocked? Shall I be shocked? Perhaps. It begins with a word ` bacon. bacon. (LAUGHS) Oh no. I thought I should be the one to tell you. (CHUCKLES) I have just read a fascinating pamphlet, in fact, about how the consumption of red meat inflames the animal passions, encouraging men to vice and strong drink. It was a small plate of bacon. Kate, you were right. There's no need. There's no need. Yes, I will say it now, and then we never need to mention it again. I have loved you since the first day we met, and I will love you till the last breath I draw. But you were right. We are together in the only way we can be. Thank you, Will. BICYCLE BELLS DING Oh! Oh, the Atalanta Women's Cycling club. Aren't they wonderful! BELLS CONTINUE DINGING Atalanta ` Greek goddess of the hunt, adventure and travel. Appropriate, don't you think? Appropriate, don't you think? It was founded by the wonderful Mrs Alice Burns, who is keen to start a... who is keen to start a... BOTH: ...rational dress association. Mrs Burns is suggesting that James and I be married. She believes it will make our association more... BOTH: ...respectable. BOTH: ...respectable. But as rationalists... BOTH: ...and socialists,... BOTH: ...and socialists,... ...we are opposed to the bourgeois institution that's nothing more than a contract of property and ownership. that's nothing more than a contract of property and ownership. Our love is as nature intended it. What's the connection between cycling and women's rights? W-Well, um, just as the wheel of the bicycle gives me a larger world to live in, so the wheel of progress gives me a larger world... to think in. Yes. MANY OVERLAPPING CONVERSATIONS What on earth is going on? In the past few hours, everything has changed. Ah, thank you, Will. That was... invigorating. (CHUCKLES) Ah, thank you, Will. That was... invigorating. (CHUCKLES) Thank you for hearing my confession. The bacon? Just don't do it again, you naughty boy. Just don't do it again, you naughty boy. BOTH CHUCKLE Mrs Sheppard! Urgent telegraph. Are you all right, young man? The Premier, he's dead, ma'am. Mr Ballance is dead. Your man, Mr Ballance, he was sick for a long time, was he not? Well, then it was probably a blessing. But where does this leave the vote? What are you on about? What are you on about? Mrs Sheppard said he was our best hope. Have you been reading her mail? Have you been reading her mail? Only the telegraphs. What do you care about the vote? It won't change a thing. What do you care about the vote? It won't change a thing. It's a start. Of what? Of what? Of... emancipation. And what's that? Women equal with men, able to do the same things, have the same jobs, be... equal. Like, I could have your job? I don't know. I don't know. And you have mine. Do you want it? You're welcome to it. Leave the poor boy alone. He's simple. Parliament will miss his wise counsel. He was ever generous alike to opponents and friends, and I might say truthfully that we shall never see his like again. Mr Ballance had previously mentioned a member of cabinet, a Mr Reeves, as a possible successor. So we held out some hope, but alas... Personally speaking, I owe him a great debt of gratitude. He was always willing to work in harmony with colleagues in the best interests of the Ministry. So, after much soul searching, I have decided to accept the decision of the ministers of this government to select me as Premier. APPLAUSE, EXCLAMATIONS GAVEL BANGS GAVEL BANGS Order! Order! It is difficult to believe how a man so uneducated, whose speeches betray such scanty acquaintance with affairs, who holds the traditions of Parliament in such contempt, how can such a man as this be our premier? I had given my promise to the late Mr Ballance to uphold the franchise question, and I hold that promise to be binding and sacred. Ah, but politics are never that straightforward. News from Wellington. READS: 'The Electoral Bill has passed through its second reading. READS: 'The Electoral Bill has passed through its second reading. Why, that's good news, isn't it? 'Now the bill has stalled, held up on Parliamentary business. For how long? For how long? No one seems to know. ALL SHOUT, GAVEL BANGS I've just given the good Members something much more important to worry about ` the rights of Members to travel free upon the railways. It should occupy the debate for some time. It should occupy the debate for some time. Order, order! Giving the enemies of suffrage time to marshal their reserves. I asked Sir John if I should write to Mr Seddon directly, but he thought that unwise. He is cunning and might twist what I write to his own ends. To have come so close and for it to slip away! To have come so close and for it to slip away! It might not be all that bad. How can you say that? How can you say that? I was merely pointing out` How can you say that? I was merely pointing out` It's appalling. We have our friends in Parliament ` Mr Saunders, Mr Hall. Who were there last year and the years before and couldn't manage it then. We still have the petition. And there are 12 new councillors in the Upper House, and Mr Seddon says we only need seven on our side to win. Dear Jennie is right. We do have the petition, with 25,570 votes so far and rising. It is 766ft long. First rate. First rate. Indeed. I suppose that, at least, is good news. Yes. And I am hoping for still more before Sir John presents it. Very well. I will not be gloomy anymore. Ah, more good news. Mr William Sydney Smith is not gloomy any more. (CHUCKLES) Hello? Guys, my throat's killing me. Don't let a sore throat hold you back. MAN: Not all throat lozenges are the same. Strepsils is clinically proven to both soothe and effectively relieve the pain and discomfort by coating deep down in your throat where it hurts. Let's do it! Whoo! Strepsils ` deep-down relief for sore throats. WOMAN: Combine New Zealand's trusted brands so you don't lose a day. 1 Fish is presenting his own devious petition today. Fish is presenting his own devious petition today. So I understand. Are you not concerned? Are you not concerned? Not in the slightest. I have a note from Miss Morison. (CHUCKLES) And now, you see, we have very nearly finished cooking our Fish. (CHUCKLES) I have much pleasure in presenting to the House this petition of some 5000 signatures... PETITION BANGS PETITION BANGS ...against the granting of the franchise to women. Sir, is it true you paid for those signatures? It is not! It is not! And that it was signed by men as well as women as young as 18? Well, what of it? Well, what of it? And that some were collected by fraudulent means? Order. Order. I object to the Honourable Member's accusation. Mr Speaker! I have here a letter signed by over 90 women from Dunedin, claiming they were tricked into signing or signed in the belief they were making their mark in support of the vote for women! EXCLAMATIONS, JEERING EXCLAMATIONS, JEERING Order, order. EXCLAMATIONS, JEERING Order, order. ...granting the franchise to women. I left it to Sir John to deliver the coup de grace. I seek leave to present this to the House ` a number of petitions from women of the age of 21 years and upwards in favour of the extension of the franchise to women. Is that all? And he said my one was small. JEERING JEERING Mr Speaker, I apologise. I seem to have presented the wrong one. MOMENTOUS MUSIC Now, this is the petition. MUSIC BUILDS MUSIC CRESCENDOS I believe it to be the greatest ever presented in Australasia. With a further contribution of 2301 signatures from the Honourable Member for Waitemata, it made the grand total to 31,872 signatures ` all fairly obtained, all from women in this Colony of voting age. all fairly obtained, all from women in this Colony of voting age. Very good. Well done. With more time, I believe we could have done even better. With more time, I believe we could have done even better. I have no doubt. But still, one quarter of eligible women have signed, and many are far flung and living in isolation. You have reason to be pleased. Your mother is a very important woman, Douglas. We must... must be proud. Let Mr Fish say now that women are not in favour of the franchise. I move that the following amendment to the Electoral Bill be made ` that the word 'man' be struck out and be replaced by the word 'person'. APPLAUSE, CHEERS He's tricky, all right. My fear is he can lie to us as ably as he lies to the suffragists. We're all keen to know straight where we stand now. Where I've always stood ` for the rights of every working man for a fair day's pay for a fair day's work and a well-earned drink if he wants one. Thank God a majority in the Upper House is still opposed to the vote. Mr Speaker, I move that the Electoral Reform Bill be agreed to by the Members and returned to the Upper House for a final reading. The men of this colony are relying on us to hold fast against the radicals and extremists. Even if it means riding for a fall, you cannot let those damn women grind you under their heel. Enough. We cannot prevent the Bill passing through the Lower House. But then it returns to the Upper House one final time. You have a plan? You have a plan? Ah, now,... (CHUCKLES) when do I not? Seddon was putting all his eggs in the Upper House basket, relying on them to do our work. Oh, he's tricky, all right, is our King Dick. Seddon has always shown scant respect for the Parliamentary process, but this time... (LAUGHS) This time, it was he who was hoist on his own petard and hoist high. I hold womankind in the highest esteem, which is why, when the bill was returned to the Upper House, I moved that the words to be inserted after the clause should read 'person does not include woman'. But my motion was not carried. It's going to be all right! It's going to be all right! What's going on? Give this to Mrs Sheppard. She must know. Give this to Mrs Sheppard. She must know. She's not here. But` But` She went by train to Dunedin a few days ago. She'll be back tonight. Right. Right. Hold your horses. Where are you going with that telegraph? I'm gonna wait for her at the station. It's going to be all right! Mr Seddon's own trickery was his undoing. Trickery and a poor grasp of mathematics. When he realised he had miscalculated his numbers, he tried to bully one of his own government-appointed councillors in the Upper House to vote as he instructed. That Honourable councillor declined. So two other councillors, Reynolds and Stevens, angered by this breech of protocol, changed their vote to spite Mr Seddon. Two gentlemen, who care not one jot for the women's franchise, changed their vote to yes because they were so aggrieved by Mr Seddon's lack of respect for Parliamentary tradition. And now this bill. This bill we have fought so long and hard for. This bill we have fought so long and hard for. This bill has been passed. Could a woman be more stupid? (LAUGHS) (CHUCKLES) (CHUCKLES) How do you feel now, Mrs Sheppard? I want to celebrate, and yet... we have been so close before. ALL SPEAK AT ONCE We have sent white camellias to all of our supporters and red to shame the ones who oppose us. I'm not sure what more` I'm not sure what more` ALL SPEAK AT ONCE We should organise a protest ride. We should organise a protest ride. Take it right to the governor's house. Is there some kind of problem? Is there some kind of problem? The bill has gone to the governor, but he will not sign. I presented a petition from 3000 concerned citizens of Auckland protesting against this bill to the governor, Lord Glasgow, who is, by the way, an old friend. If the governor agrees, he could delay signing until we are too late for the election. We've drafted a letter in the strongest terms. We've drafted a letter in the strongest terms. Letter writing is no longer enough. ALL SPEAK AT ONCE And so now we have to wait through the longest weekend of our lives. (PANTS) DOOR OPENS Katie? > From Mr Seddon. He wishes to inform me that... ...the Electoral Bill was assented to by His Excellency at a quarter to 12 this day, and we trust that all doubts as to the government's sincerity in this important matter have been effectively removed. Hypocrite. Hypocrite. (LAUGHS) Indeed. Katie. We have done it. We really have. Congratulations, Mama. Thank you, Douglas. Good show. Good show. Ma'am? Good show. Ma'am? ALL LAUGH, EXCLAIM Congratulations. We've got it! We've really got it! We've got it! We've really got it! (SQUEALS, GIGGLES) I'm still not voting. I'm still not voting. Then you'd be an idiot. I'm still not voting. Then you'd be an idiot. (LAUGHS) I first began pressing for women's rights 50 years ago in 1843. I thank God I've lived long enough to see this day. In only six weeks, the Suffrage League and others enrolled a staggering 109,000 women out of a total population of perhaps 130,000 women of voting age. Despite predictions of mayhem and depravity, over 90,000 NZ women exercised their right to vote ` the first of any nation in the world to do so. In the freshness of a bright, sunny morning, we took our way to the polling booth. The fresh summer dresses of the women, the brushed-up appearances of the men and the cheery courteous greetings of friends and neighbours gave a festive air to the proceedings. Sir John Hall did not stand for re-election. Despite his hopes women would vote Conservative, in reality, the woman's vote had little affect on the balance of power. Richard Seddon went on to be Liberal Premier for 13 years and was happy to take credit for the women's franchise. As I wrote to my wife and daughters, at least there are four more votes I can now count on. Mr Fish was less fortunate. That year he was voted out of Parliament. He died a few years later of throat cancer. Alfred Saunders retained his seat of Selwyn. He remained close friends with Kate Sheppard until his death in 1904. Ada Wells continued to fight for women's rights and was the first woman elected to the Christchurch city council. James Wilkinson and Katrine Walker were finally convinced to marry, but they did so in true knickerbocker style. Bridget O'Flaherty never voted. She died of tuberculosis, aged 19. Ralph Benner went on to become a senior postmaster. It was said Ralph did as his wife told him. Despite Emma Packe's prayers for moral purity, women voted on the basis of religion, region and, above all, class ` just like men, in fact. Jennie Smith was kept busy raising her 10 children, but remained a close friend to Kate Sheppard. None of her five daughters ever married. Kate and her husband were separated in 1896. She moved in with Jennie and Will at their house in Riccarton, where she lived for 30 years. William Smith continued to insist that theirs was an affair of the mind only. Jennie Smith died in 1924. Kate was by then a widow. In 1925, Kate and Will were married. She was 77 years old. He was 73. They had only four more years together before he died. Captions by Desney Thorogood. www.tvnz.co.nz/access-services Captions were made possible with funding from NZ On Air. Copyright TVNZ Access Services 2012