Supplement to the John Hancock Global/International Funds Prospectus
for John Hancock World Bond Fund
On December 8, 1998, the Trustees of the John Hancock World Bond Fund (the
"Fund") voted to recommend that the shareholders approve a tax-free
reorganization of the Fund, as described below.
Under the terms of the reorganization, subject to shareholder approval at a
shareholder meeting scheduled for February 10, 1999, the Fund would transfer all
of its assets and liabilities to the John Hancock Strategic Income Fund
("Strategic Income Fund") in a tax-free exchange for shares of equal value of
Strategic Income Fund. Further information regarding the proposed reorganization
will be contained in a proxy statement and prospectus, which is scheduled to be
mailed to shareholders on or about December 17, 1998.
Effective December 9, 1998, John Hancock World Bond Fund will be closed to all
new accounts.
December 9, 1998
12/98
