AGS Magazine February 1910

-33F,Igd

XIS

7 -

'Z 'ON

"II IX '[°A

.o361

'.1.avasaaa

Educational Books.

JAMES G. BISSET

C

ONTINUES to supply all the Class Books (New or Second-hand) suited for the Requirements of the Higher Educational Institutions in the City, at the Lowest Prices.

N.B.—BEST VALUE IN STUDENTS' NOTE BOORS.

JAMES G. BISSET, Classical, fnebical, anb Ebucational 1Booliseller,

85 BROAD STREET (Opposite Marisohal College).

the Sian Post aluoaps . points to .

58-60 St. Nicholas Street, When you are in want of Pianos, Organs, Violins, Mandolins, Gramophones, Phonographs, Bagpipes, Records, Reeds, Strings, Music, and all Musical Fittings.

Absolutely Best 'Value and Selection at

J. & Az MARK, 58-60 ST. NO0LAS STREET, ABERDEEN,

Vatroniseb by fRopattp

.

4.

for over twenty wears.

SPICER & KIDD, Successors to S. G. PRESSLIE,

ant' Gentlemen's bigb.class lbairOressers ant) Vertumers, 10 BRIDGE STREET, AND PALACE HOTEL,

-

.13ERDEE

The Largest First-Class Saloons in Aberdeen.

Face Massage—French and American Methods. Electrolysis, Chiropody and Manicure.

Telephone No. 2995.

" Maxwell " Watches.

Reliable.

Inexpensive.

The "Maxwell" is of an improved type, fully jewelled, & guaranteed.

It can be had,in steel, oxidized (gunmetal) cases at

The "Maxwell Junior" is a well made, steel, oxidized (gunmetal) cased Leve Watch which is a good timekeeper.

Neat shape and strong.

21/c

PRICE-

or silver at

12/6.

301-•

We recommend these, with every assurance that they will give satisfaction, and it is not necessary to buy a new one when out of order, as they will repair.

To be had only from

& d. smi-rt-t, 23 and 25 St. Nicholas Street, and 191 Union Street.

M. GERARD, Jeweller & Silversmith,

411 UNION

‘' s

ST.

(West),

Has a Large Selection of Gold and Pearl Brooches, Necklets, Pendants, Silver Brushes, Toilet Jars, etc. Silver and Electro-Plate Goods. Also Watches and Clocks.

SCOTCH JEWELLERY A Speciality.

Repairs in Watch, Clock, and Jewellery Carefully Executed.

s

TELEPHONE 17Y5.

H UNTER'S PHARMACY, 1

r 111

UNION STREET (Directly Opposite the Facade).

Telephone 1107. *

PERFUMERY for

Finest Stock from all the Dor Leading Manufacturers.

XMAS PRESENTS and or' NEW YEAR GIFTS.

Elegant Cases fitted with cut-glass bottles, filled with high-class perfumes Perfume Sprays, Richly Scented Sachets, Highly Perfumed Soaps, Smelling Salts, Colognes, Lavenders.

EAU DE COLOGNE in Original Boxes as imported.

R. hunter, pharmacist, 111 anion Street.

DESIGNS

ARTISTIC

Silver and electro-

late

-

-

aqa

Pri3es, ) Weaaiqg Presents.

-

Om.

Special Terms given to Sports and Presentation Committees.

CHARLES MELVIN, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH, K-

185 Union Street, ABERDEEN.

THE FISHING SEASON Opens shortly, and Anglers would be well advised to have their rods overhauled and put in order at once. Don't leave them till the season is in full swing and rod-makers are busy.

We Execute Rod Repairs of all kinds, and our Charges are Moderate.

Send a post card and we will call for your rods, and deliver them again when ready.

MARTIN'S Fishing Tackle Catalogue with Photo-colour Illustrations sent post free.

ALEXANDER MARTIN Fishing

Rod and

128 UNION

Tackle

Maker,

ST., ABERDEEN.

Telephone No. 48o.

A. R. PROSSER. Plumbering and Gasfitting of every description.

Electrical and Mechanical Bell-fitting Hot Water, and House Sanitation a Spee;ality.

Advice and Estimates given Free on Application.

472 UNION STREET, Aberdeen.

Established 1847.

togants Music Zatoons, 349 Union Street, Aberdeen.

PIANOS and ORGANS.—A Large and Varied Selection of the Best Models always on hand.

An Inspection Invited.

Cash or Instalments.

MUSIC.—Up-to-date Music of all kinds always on hand.

Exainination and Educational a Speciality.

Any kind of Music sent on approbation. Music specially ordered delivered in Three days.

MISCELLANEOUS.—Violins, Bagpipes, Mandolins, Strings, and all Musical Accessories of the Best Quality.

GEO. T. CANTLAY, Proprietor.

CONTENTS. PORTRAITS OF MISS MACKIE AND MISS ADAM -

-

Frontispiece

THE BYRON STATUE SCHOOL NOTES

-

-

-

NOTES ABOUT OLD BOYS

-

53

-

54

-

58 65

THE UNIVERSITY AND FORMER PUPILS RANDOM NOTES

-

-

THE SCHOOL MUSEUM

-

OUR CONTEMPORARIES

-

-

-

-

66

-

-

THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL AND GRANT -

THE SECONDARY -

-

68 68

SCHOOL -

69

-

-

71

BY WM. KEITH LEASK

-

-

72

BY FREDERIC W. GALLOWAY

-

OUR LETTER-BOX-FROM A CANADIAN PROFESSOR

-

THE LATE DEAN DANSON THE SCHOOL IN 1868-73.

WITH THE VICEROY. " DEBATER " NOTES -

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

F.P. RUGBY FOOTBALL

FORMER PUPILS' CLUB-NOTES

-

-

SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOTES .

84 85 99

•

93

.

99 I00

LARGE

HALLS

FOR WEDDINGS, AT

WHERE TO DINE.

The Richmond safe 17 ST. NICHOLAS STREET

GREATLY

SWIFT & SPARKBROOK

CYCLES.

71

CD a)

, Z bo •• cis

E.

P.; a,

ROVER • CYCLES.

LUNCHEONS, DINNERS, AND TEAS. A large and varied Menu daily.

Perfect Cooking.

AND

REDUCED CHARGES.

BREAKFASTS,

Prompt Attention.

3 CORRECTION WYND. THE

BON=ACCORD CYCLE CO., CYCLE & MOTOR AGENTS, 234 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. "Triumph," "N.S.U.," "Vindec Special" Motor Cycles.

Moderate Charges.

TRIUMPH CYCLES..

4 •3 CD 4:6

0 •-•

g i $2, 0 D. I ris I :

i

o

A

P

ENFIELD CYCLES.

DINE AT The

Royal Athenaeum Restaurant and Grill Room E).

THE

HALL IN THE CITY.

PREMIER DINING

)?cztronised by the elite of tile Gown 4 County.

CHOICE SELECTION OF

OLD VINTAGE CHAMPAGNES AND OTHER WINES. HIGH-CLASS PURE HIGHLAND POT-STILL WHISKY. John Mitchell, Proprietor.

Tel. No. 2273.

NEAT. CHEAP. QUICK.

Printing.

ESTIMATES GIVEN. **

THE CENTRAL PRESS (John Milne), GENERAL

PRINTER, LITHOGRAPHER, AND STATIONER,

61 BELMONT STREET, ABERDEEN. Telephone No. 809.

"To shorten time is to lengthen life."

THE GAZETTE FOUNTAIN PEN ought to be one of the most cherished possessions of every student. It will materially aid him in his studies, will make writing a pleasure, and will tend to increase his leisure for recreation.

It is well worth Half-a-Sovereign, and only costs

HALF-A-CROWN, With 14-carat Gold Instructions.

Nib, in

box with

Filler and

STILOS, with Gold Spring Needle, 3s. 6d.

POST FOUNTAIN PEN, - 8s. 6d.

Filling for a day or a week.

As easy as dipping once.

Seeuve one note (it the

"GAZETTE " OFFICE, UNION STREET, ABERDEEN.

130WIVIAN & SON, Picture ffranierz, 187 UNION STREET. Cl. &

7.

m7Nssza

9

COMPICIC lbouse ifurmsbers,

3

ALFORD PLACE (Holburn Junction).

Reliable Home-made Furniture, in all styles, atkeenest prices.

Hair, Wool, and Wire Mattresses, Carpets, Rugs, and Linoleum, by leading makers.

Removals by Rail. Road, or Sea. CABINET WORKS,

-

-

-

3 to 7 FOREST AVENUE.

TELEPHONE No. 1516.

Miss MActuE. Miss ADAM.

THE ABERDEEN

Orarnmat School tlTaga3ine.

Vol. XIII.

- FEBRUARY, I9I0.

NO. 2.

The Byron Statue.

To Parents, Former Pupils, and Friends of the School.

The fund, paid and promised, now amounts to over £800, with the assured prospect of about £goo within three years, probably the minimum time in which the statue could be in situ. This includes £5o which the Rector has promised, from School resources, etc., provided the Committee keep faith with the subscribers-75 per cent. of whom are of the School connexion, Parents, Former Pupils, Clubs, etc.—and uphold the unanimous resolutions proposed by the SubCommittee, and passed nem. con. by the Managing Committee on 5th May, 1899, that the statue be of bronze, on a granite pedestal, in front of the School, and by Mr. the most eminent sculptor Pittendrigh Macgillivray, in Scotland.

About £8o has been contributed since 1st January.

Only £15o remains to ensure immediate success.

Even the smallest sums will be welcome. Will you help us to secure this honour and ornament for our School, City, and County? Bis dat qui cito dat.

H. F. MORLAND SIMPSON. 21st Jan., Iwo.

54

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

• •

Our sincere good wishes to all our readers for a happy and prosperous New Year.

The Christmas holidays are now but a pleasant memory.

Coming as they did on Christmas Eve, after the stress of examinations, they were welcome ; bringing with them dry, open weather, they were the more appreciated ; just long enough to be enjoyable, too short and too animated to occasion boredom, they are the brightest break in the whole session. A Rugby XV. from Gordon's College and the School combined to play several trials with senior teams; but, ignorant of one another's play, they were not very successful.

A Hockey XI.. formed mainly from the 1st XV., was—we grieve to say so—ungallant enough to win all their matches.

It is fitting that a nation whose most cherished possession is its dearly won liberty should recall from time to time to honoured memory those great men who won this boon.

We make no apology, then, for presenting the appeal contained on the preceding page. Byron, as the impassioned champion of liberty, appeals to all, and particularly to his native county and the School of his boyhood. Surely the city of his early years and the School of which he was for four years a member will not rest without a memorial of him whom continental cities, where he sojourned but briefly, have delighted to honour?

We record with much regret the transference to another of the Boards schools in the city of Mr. Patrick G. Allan, for long a master in our Middle School. An F.P. himself, Mr. Allan was thoroughly conversant with the spirit of the School, and his even temper and youthful sympathies readily gained for him the goodwill of every pupil who passed through his hands. On their behalf we desire to express our best wishes for Mr. Allan's success in his new position.

School Notes.

55

Mr. James C. Soutter, who is soon to join our staff in place of Mr. Allan, is a native of Aberdeen, and received his training as a teacher in the Church of Scotland Training College, which he entered as First Bursar, and was second in Scotland at the King's Scholarship Examination in 1901.

Concurrently, he attended Arts Classes at Aberdeen University, where he graduated M.A. in 1905. Since then he has been on the staff of Girvan High School. In addition to his college certificates in French, in 1905 he studied at the Lycee Malherbe, Caen, from which he holds the Diplome de Langue Francaise (degre superieur).

3 3 We should like to draw our readers' attention to the very satisfactory and significant figures we publish on pp.

69-71. ,t;

'A

4f.

The prizes won at our recent Athletic Sports were distributed by Mr. A. T. Cruickshank (F.P.), before a large number of the School and friends. Introduced by the Rector, Mr. Cruickshank congratulated the successful competitors in a speech full of interesting reminiscences and apt allusions to the needs of the School, and afterwards made In reply to an enthusiastic vote of the presentations. thanks, Mr. Cruickshank remarked that the School Hall lacked one thing—something recently installed in the High School—a School organ. We commend this suggestion to our readers.

.n.

This has been a notable year for School Rugby. The 1st XV., formed almost wholly from the junior teams of the preceding year, has surpassed all expectations ; and, as a strong all-round combination, is now making a bold bid for the Junior Championship. The players, individually, are eager to win their places in the Combined Schools' XV. against George Watson's College—so eager, indeed, that they seem likely almost to monopolise all the places. Their Captain, D. M. W. Leith, has brought an honour to the School that has not been gained for some sixteen years—that of representing the North of Scotland in Rugby, as back, against the Heriotonians. The 2nd XV., especially the back division, is inferior to the 1st only in size and experience. *

*

We note that little progress has apparently been made with the proposal that the Town Council should utilise the

36

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

ground formerly occupied by the Bleachfield as a west-end the F.P. park. The way is still open for the School andpossessed those to similar grounds Club to secure athletic at a by many of the Edinburgh and Glasgow schools, widely suit would these as such moderate price. Grounds to differing tastes, as they would provide space, in additionnot Is tennis. and Rugby and cricket, for hockey, bowling, such a prospect worthy of an effort?

Eg

The Debating Society is near the close of a not uneventful season. The lectures have been in every case most enjoyable and instructive, and the lecturers masters of their subject and of the art of presenting it in most attractive fashion. The debates have seldom lacked point, assuredly never vigour. The " Sing-Song " on Christmas Eve was— except, perhaps, for the singing—a great success. We should indeed be glad if the vocalist who contributed an original School song would suffer us to print his effusion in these columns.

The annual Judicial Night passed off with great success on Friday, 3rd December. Such an up-to-date charge as that of a suffragette assault on a local M.P. could not fail to excite the liveliest interest ; and the grave political consequences which depended on the verdict increased the excitement to a high pitch. A crowded courthouse listened intently to the evidence on which depended the fate of the fair prisoner. But the eloquent and weighty pleading of the defence availed nothing. The prisoner was unanimously found to be guilty ; and the court dispersed, filled with conflicting emotions. Stay of sentence has since been granted.

7,

5

We regret to announce that the Natural History Society, after an existence of some three years, with varying fortunes, has lapsed as a regularly constituted Society—at all events, until such time as there are sufficient seniors to carry on the duties of administration. Its funds have been voted for the extension of the School Museum. Proposals have been made, which will doubtless find general favour, viz.:— That a Rambling or Field Club be formed for excursions during the summer term ; and that a special Natural History section be formed in the Debating Society, to arrange for lectures, etc., when occasion offers.

School Notes.

57

The Librarians desire to thank the Rector and Mr. W. Munson for the gift of several new books to the Lending Library. As the finances of the Library are in a flourishing condition, it has been decided to add considerably to the number of volumes. This should prove an inducement for more to become members, as even a total of forty, though an increase on last year's, is hardly creditable to a School of more than five hundred.

The Museum has recently been largely rearranged and extended, mainly owing to the self-sacrificing labours and the unwearied zeal of the Rector. Is not this an incentive to every one of us to try to add to the collection? The nature photographs are a very pleasing feature of the additions, and here, at least, many could help. We recommend careful inspection : it will be amply repaid.

0 0 The Lent term is a period of great mental activity throughout the School. The Leaving Certificate Examinations begin on the 15th of March—an ill-omened date. On the 24th of the same month come those most redoubtable foes to ease and slumber, the Bursary Competition and the University Preliminaries. The members of the Sixth and Fifth Classical scarcely exceed twenty in number, but they will, we are convinced, do their best, few though they are, to maintain the honour of the School.

0 "CI is We beg to apologise to any members of the F.P. Club, to our numerous exchanges, and to any others interested in the Magazine, for the shortage of our previous issue.

Although an edition of 1,200 copies was printed, the indefatigable Secretary of the F.P. Club had obtained so many additional members, that the supply was inadequate. Care will be taken that no such mishap occurs again.

0 0 0 We believe that not a few Old Boys, and Old Masters, too, are—at the time of writing—candidates for parliamentary honours. Whatever be their political opinions, they have the best wishes of the School. is It is with very great pleasure that we present, as a frontispiece to this issue, photos of Miss Mackie and Miss Adam. These, we are sure, will be welcomed, not only by present pupils, but also by the very large number of Old Boys who have passed through the classes conducted by the two ladies. .

58

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

In order that this record may be made as complete as possible, all readers are invited to send to the Editor any information they may gather concerning former pupils of the School.

Dates given in parentheses after names refer to the period during which the individuals named were pupils at the School.

In the lists of Birthday Honours, which are now issued twice a year, the Grammar School can generally claim at least one recipient as an Old Boy, and the list of last Rev. William Robertson November was no exception.

Nicoll, M.A, LL.D., on whom the honour of knighthood was conferred, was a pupil of the School in the year 1866, and from it he passed to the University of Aberdeen, where he graduated in 187o. As editor of the " British Weekly," the " Bookman," the " Expositor," the " Woman at Home," the " British Monthly," and as a biographer and a writer on theological subjects, he is one of the most widely known literary men of the day.

A book of exceptional interest to the School has recently been published. This is a Life of Robert Machray, D.D., LL.D., D.C.L., Prelafe of the Order of St. Michael and St. George, Archbishop of Rupert's Land, and Anglican Primate of All Canada. The early chapters of the book are based on a MS. written by the Archbishop himself, and there is a kind of fascination in the picture they present of the poor, fatherless, Highland boy who fought his way, first to Aberdeen University and next to Cambridge, who became the dean of his college and vicar of Madingley, and, finally, at the age of 34—the youngest bishop in the Church of England—was consecrated to the immense see of Rupert's Land, which then extended from the Atlantic to

Notes about Old Boys.

59

the Pacific, and from the Great Lakes to the Arctic Ocean.

The Archbishop, who was born in 1831, was a pupil at the School in 1847, and he died in 1904. The volume is one which all who are interested in the School should make a point of perusing.

Another recently-published work, of more modest size, is also of interest to the School. This is " The Rev. Alexander John Forsyth and his Invention of the Percussion Lock," by Major-General Sir Alexander John Forsyth Reid.

We cannot say for certain at the moment whether Dr. Forsyth, to whom " belongs the undisputed merit of having invented the percussion lock and of having been the first to substitute fulminate for flint as a means of igniting the charge of gunpowder," was a pupil at the School or not, though we have little doubt that he was, but we are absolutely certain that the biographer is an Old Boy. He was at the School in the years 1860 and 1861, and if he continue his labours as author, it may become a difficult task to solve in his case the good old Debating Society problem whether the sword or the pen is the mightier.

One of our oldest " Boys," George Walker, retired bookseller, Aberdeen, has just passed away. His name appears in the 1830-35 section of the " Roll of Old Boys" published with last Magazine. He was a partner in the bookselling business of A. Brown & Co., Aberdeen, from 1845 to 1883, in which year he retired, and was the author of the well-known local book, "Aberdeen Awa'," and several smaller publications.

Another very old " Boy " has also just passed away in the person of Dr. George Skene Keith, Edinburgh, who was at the School in 1831. On leaving the School he studied for a time at Marischal College, and then went to Edinburgh University to study medicine. After taking his medical degree he commenced practice in Rome in 1843, but settled in Edinburgh two years later, and continued in that city until he retired in 1880. His convictions regarding the prevalence of over-eating, and his practice, as applied to himself and his patients, earned for him the name of " the Despite strenuous opposition to his starving doctor." theories, he had a very successful career, and his books, " Plea for a Simpler Life " and " Fads of an Old Physician," written after he retired, made his name widely known, a fact which is proved by the numerous editions into which the

6o

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

two books have run. It is interesting to note that his lifelong friend, Professor David Masson, was also a pupil at the School in the early 'thirties.

A brilliant reception was given at the offices of the Queensland Government in London in honour of Sir William Macgregor, the new Governor of the State, just before he left this country. He recently arrived in Brisbane, and has now entered upon his new duties.

David Littlejohn, LL.D., has just completed twenty-five years' service as Sheriff-Clerk of the County of Aberdeen. and the occasion has been marked by the presentation of a gift by former and present Deputies. Dr. Littlejohn was at the School from 1850 to 1854, and is a keen member of the Former Pupils' Club.

Principal P. T. Forsyth, M.A., D.D. (1859-64), added last autumn another book to his already extensive list of theological works. The title of the book is " The Person and Place of Jesus Christ," the Congregational Union Lecture for 1909.

George Maitland Edmond, M.A., M.D. (1865-68), has recently been appointed by the Postmaster-General to be Medical Officer to the Post Office at Aberdeen.

Dr. Edmond was Gold Medallist of the School in 1868.

• Rev. James Alexander Milne, M.A. (1876-86), minister of Cramond, died in November, at the age of forty.

Thomas Mair, for about fifty years tenant of the farm of Kinmuck, Ellon, died at the beginning of this year. He was a pupil of the School under Dr. Melvin in 1846-47. He was a man of marked literary ability and attainment, and in antiquarian research took a prominent part, being the author of several works in that line.

Lieutenant J. B. Adams, of Antarctic fame, has received an important appointment under the Labour Exchanges scheme.

Robert Lindsay, M.A., M.B. (1849-52), died recently at Botley, Hampshire.

He formerly held an appointment under the Army Medical Department.

Lindsay Ross Ogg has been appointed, by competitive examination, to one of four vacancies in the Bank of Bengal.

He was trained in the office of the Union Bank of Scotland, Castle Street, Aberdeen.

Notes about Old Boys.

61

Eu Siang Hye (1903-4) has recently been appointed Mining Instructor in the College of Mining, Shanghai.

Gavin Leith Allardyce, M.A. (1894-190o), is a partner in the newly-formed firm of Hare & Allardyce, W.S., Edinburgh.

Robert W. Dunlap, who is a graduate of medicine of Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, U.S.A., recently arrived at Tengchowfu, Shantung Province, China, and is at present engaged in studying Chinese, with a view, we understand, to becoming a medical missionary. On his way from the States to China he saw something of Honolulu and Japan.

James Strachan, M.A., B.Sc. (1885-95), has been appointed to the important post of Chief Mathematical and Science Master at the Merchant Taylors' School, London.

He was for a number of years on the staff of the Royal Naval College, Osborne.

John McBain, M.A., is at present director of the Educational Book Company, Carmelite Street, London.

R F. O. Sauriders (1893-1903) has gone out to Kuala Lumpur, F.M.S., to superintend the erection of machinery in connection with a large contract there.

Rev. Logie Danson, M.A., has been appointed Interim Rector of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Aberdeen.

John Brown, jun., who went out to Australia as one of the representatives of the Aberdeen Chamber of Commerce to the Chambers of Commerce Conference, has extended his visit to New Zealand and the Far East. He had some amusing experiences in China, and we hope to give an account of these in a future number.

William R. Clapperton is still carrying off the bulk of the prizes in the Scots College, Rome. He has lately won two gold medals there.

J. V. Lorimer (1895-1906), who is at present residing in Newcastle, tells us that he met A. B. Christen there. Christen is taking his engineering degree at the Armstrong College, Newcastle, which is the engineering department of Durham University.

Thomas B. G. Henderson, C.A (1894-1900), has received an important appointment with Messrs. Marwick, Mitchell, and Co., chartered accountants, Glasgow, London, and New York, and is at present engaged on special work in the United States.

4

62

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

W. E. Wallace has passed the final examination of the Chartered Accountants' Society. He was the only Aberdeen candidate who passed what is now generally regarded as a stiff examination. We think we are correct in saying that at the examinations in recent years, at which a number of candidates have sat, our Old Boys have come out exceedingly well—at anyrate, we know of three instances where, when only one candidate passed, that candidate was an Old Boy. Frank L. Merrylees, who is with the firm of Mason L. Brown & Co., civil engineers, Detroit, Michigan, writes us that " Old Boys are fairly numerous in these parts, and we had a Reunion of three in Windsor a couple of months ago, when Stanley Russell [minister at Mirfield, Yorks] was there." He also mentions that he saw Charlie Giles in Toronto some time ago. A Canadian-American branch of the Club will be required shortly.

Simpson Shepherd has been promoted to be assistant surveyor at the Village Deep Mine, Johannesburg.

Shepherd only went out to South Africa a year ago, so that his promotion has been rapid. ' James S. Saunders is prospering in the land of rubber : he is with the United Serdang Company.

William F. Griffith, who was one of the ist XV. forwards. last year, has received an appointment in the Canadian Bank of Commerce in Toronto. The F.P.'s 2nd XV. will greatly miss him.

Thomas Mackenzie, M.A., Tain, who was at the School from 1841 to 1845, attained the jubilee year of his public service as a Sheriff-Substitute last October. This is, we understand, quite a unique experience.

William Bisset Allan, Sefton Park, Liverpool, who was a pupil of the School, both at Schoolhill and Skene Street West, came across a copy of the Magazine lately, and promptly became a member of the Club.

James Simpson has obtained his place for the North v.

South in the International Trial Match. Simpson has been playing a splendid game for the 1st XV. this year. On another page will be found the results of the matches to date, and although the team have, so far, not done so well this year as in previous years, they will, no doubt, do better in the second half of the season, as they have some excellent material to work upon.

Notes about Old Boys.

63

G. Elder Levie, C.A., F.C.I.S. (1884-88), who is Lecturer on Accountancy at the Bradford Commercial College, has published a book on " Practical Book-keeping."

Alfred A. Black (" Punch "), in sending his subscription as a member of the Club, says :—" I was a Grammar Boy in 1882 and 1883 in ' Green's' and ' Nosie's ' : Third Middle junior and senior, I think, the classes were, with Latin from dear old Legge, and French from the fiery Brebner." After he left the School, Black was one of the most prominent members of the Aberdeen Gymnastic and Rowing Club, and is now secretary of the Victoria Mills Co., Ltd., Cawnpore, India. He was a classfellow with James Georgeson, M.A. (1883-86), now a master at the Girls' High School, Aberdeen.

Dr. D. Ernest Rae has sailed for Para and Manaost, and thence for New York and the Barbadoes. He expects to be back in this country in March.

D. H. Learmonth (1899-1904), who has been in the service of the Hudson Bay Co., is at present in this country on holiday.

Dr. G. O. Gauld (1886-91) has now left Elvington, Yorks, having bought a practice in Nottingham. There he will find several other Old Boys located.

J. R. S. Scott (1895-1902) has received an appointment, probably at Poona, in the Indian Military Accounts Department. Formerly these posts were filled by army officers.

Many will remember him as having coxed the University crew in 1903 and 1904. For the last three years he has been apprenticed to a C.A. in Edinburgh, and has been " digging " with Ian A. Kendall Burnett, of the Royal Scottish Museum.

W. McGavin who was Captain of the School XV., and who has been resident in London for the past year, sails for Manilla in a few weeks.

J. Meston Reid is at present in the service of Orr's Zinc White, Ltd., Widnes, Lancashire.

Thomas Roy, who is Government Railway Engineer at Blantyre, Nyassaland, has left for Central Africa, after a few months' holiday at home.

Dr. A. B. Simpson, who is in medical partnership in Singapore, returns there at the end of February, after a long holiday. He has some alluring tales of the fortunes that

64

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

are being made in rubber at the present time in the East.

Several of our Old Boys are engaged in rubber planting, so we are expecting handsome donations in the near future towards some of our deserving schemes (e.g., Register Fund, Of New Recreation Ground, Byron Statue Fund, etc.). course, we know that fortunes are made occasionally in other lines.

H. G. M. Wilson has been promoted to the superintendent's department in the Pacific Coast Branch of the Canadian Bank of Commerce, Vancouver.

J. C. Lawrence, who has been for several years in the service of the White Steam Car Co., in London, has gone out to New Zealand to represent the company there.

D. Bruce Rae (1886-94) sends us a most interesting letter, in which he says :—" I was at School from 1886-94, but did nothing special except advocate strongly the playing of Rugby football between the classes. Although I played Rugby the whole time I was at School, I never played for At Mercliiston Castle School, Edinburgh, the 1st XV. however, where I afterwards went, I played for the 1st XV., of which I was very proud." Rae holds an appointment in the inspectors' department of the Capital and Counties Bank, Ltd., and the chief of this department is A. Forbes Simpson—the country manager—who is also an Old Boy, and who was a famous Rugby player in his day.

Dr. George B. Scott (" Casar Scott ") is in practice in Brixton, and Dr. David Knight at Streatham.

James A. Ducat (1884-95), who has been for some years engineer at the Champduny Jute Mills, Bardyabati, Bengal, India, has received an appointment at the Aberdeen Jute Works, and has come home to take up his duties there.

James H. Fraser, M.A. (1889-95), is one of the senior masters at the High School, Durban, Natal.

Robert D. Keith, M.A., M.D. (1892-95), has been appointed Principal of the Straits and Federated Malay States Medical School, Singapore.

George C. Cheyne, B.Sc. (Agr.), who is studying for the Indian Forest Service, has been playing " rugger for Christ Church Collegoi Oxford. ;.

Douglas J. T. Jamieson, who was home on leave, has now left to resume his duties on the staff of the Rajputana ' Mukow Railway Co.

65

Notes about Old Boys.

George Ledingham, who is at present at the Glasgow Technical College, has been playing Rugby for Glasgow University.

Garland C. Milne is at present at Alford, acting as resident engineer for the new waterworks there.

Dr. J. B. Rae (1886-96) is assistant minister at " Ian Maclaren's " old church, Sefton Park, Liverpool.

Congratulations to George B. Esslemont, one of the Vice-Presidents of the Former Pupils' Club, on having again been elected M.P. for South Aberdeen.

Although rather late in the day, it is worth recording that Mount Keen was ascended on ski for the first time from Ballater by two of our members last March. It is a matter of surprise that more of our members do not take up this exhilarating form of exercise, which can only be had when other forms of exercise are not to be obtained. We hope to have a short article on the pleasures of this winter sport on a future occasion.

The following Old Boys have become life members since our last number was issued :—Lieut. Dymock, R.A., who is in charge of the Army Ordnance Department, Dover ; J. A. Simpson, Royal Observatory, Cape Town; A. G. Fraser (1892-96) and James G. Fraser (I 892-1 goo), Duneedaw, Rangoon ; Graeme Robertson, 87 Fountainhall Road, Aberdeen ; Rev. J. M. Meston, Madras Christian College, Madras ; George Croll, of Messrs. Harrison & Crosfields, Ltd., London ; R. S. Troup, Indian Forest Service, Dehra Dun, Northern Province, India.

The University and Former Pupils.

The following figures are unofficial, extracted from the "Students' Handbook," 1909-10 :— Men.

Arts, Science, Medicine, Divinity, Law, -

- 291 - tot - 203 - 18 - 26 ___ Total, - - 639 -

Women.

F.P.'s

235 54 18 16 5 44 ...

I ...

9 ________ 256 126

Percentage of Men. Tota

18.5 18

1(3'4 ISA-

2I'I

20.6

5.5 34'6 -19.5

5'5 34.6 -13.9

66

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Random Notes.

Owing, possibly, to the intense gloom shed over the School by the approaching Bursary Competition, the minds of all are filled with woe. The members of the Sixth and Fifth are especially affected, for on them the work falls.

Day and night mathematical formulm, Latin phrases and sentences, historical dates, and a thousand other odds and One ends whirl through their brains in a giddy dance. gentleman of an ingenious turn of mind suggested to these unfortunate beings that they should join with their brethren in " another place" and go on strike—a regular Socialist strike, with picketing and processions and " Right Not To Work" demonstrations. "And," he added, "soon there would be a bill introduced into the House of Commons Unfortunately dealing with the ' Swotling Industries.' " for the success of his plan, a more prudent gentleman suggested that if the party in power heard of the scheme, they might strike first—in a different fashion.

The Debating Society has been having, as usual, a lively There are many young members this year, and season. some of them seem too bashful to speak. Perhaps this accounts for the number of debates handed in on "Hat Nights," dealing with the question whether male birds of the poultry species should deposit eggs of quadrate form, or with the whereabouts of a native off the west coast of England. One evening some gentlemen burst into song.

When asked to desist, they pleaded that the rules of the Society said nothing against singing. To frame rules to suit the idiosyncrasies of every member of the Society would be a Herculean task.

The election fever has not confined itself to voters merely, but has also spread to the School. Members of the upper classes may be heard deep in the intricacies of Fiscal Reform, arguing with great zest, and in a few cases with a slight knowledge of the subject. Even the Lower School has not escaped infection. One day a dreadful clamour was heard amongst our young friends. It turned out that they were disputing about politics in the usual fashion, one party of combatants being the Liberals, the other the Radicals.

But they are not the only people who grow bellicose over their politics. A magnate of a certain city went to a political dinner. The proceedings were somewhat festive, and he left declaring his intention of not going home till morn-

Random Notes.

67

ing. Time passed, and his family became anxious, and sent out in search of him. At last the messengers found him in a life-and-death struggle with a lamp-post. After much persuasion, he consented to leave off the fight ; and, casting a glance of withering scorn at his adversary, remarked, "Ah, well! talkin' polticksh—p'rapsh faultsh on bo' shides ! " The 1st XV. are to be congratulated on their splendid Their record apperformances throughout the season. remembered that it is when remarkable the more pears all only two of last year's team have returned. Special praise is due to the forwards, who have consistently played a plucky, fast, and vigorous game, often against great odds.

All the chief authorities on Rugby football in Aberdeen have been unanimous in praising them. We wish the team every success in their remaining matches. The Captain and the Secretary have spared no pains to encourage budding talent in our midst. They have, for this purpose, !held practices among the juniors. The first of these the Captain refereed, and gave the players much valuable instruction. Unfortunately, a ball which was being kicked about got mixed up with the game, and spectators witnessed the somewhat uncommon phenomenon of a try being scored simultaneously at each end. It is wonderful what a little coaching will do.

The poetic outburst on the part of one of the Lower School has inspired others to like effusions. We regret our inability to publish any of them in this number. One contribution began with the following verse :— " I wish I were a nigger boy, And wore a little shirt : I'd never have to wash myself, For you couldn't see the dirt."

This bears the stamp of genius.

Members of the Debating Society are preparing for the proposed Cadet Corps by practising their marksmanship on the President.

It is requested that members of the above Society do not bring into the room walking-sticks more than half the size of themselves.

We desire to express our appreciation of the efforts of the painters who have been recently engaged upon the The woodwork on the outside of the School buildings.

68

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

general appearance of the latter has been distinctly improved by the beautiful emerald tints our artistic friends have succeeded in imparting to the window-frames and railings.

Since the summer holidays the Sixth Classical has held the attendance flag three times, on each occasion with a ioo per cent. attendance. The Sixth is to be congratulated.

The condition of the poet who wrote a dissertation on the suitability of Highland dress for a vigorous and bashful member of the 1st XV. shows a slight amelioration.

The School Museum.

Recent additions :—A fine specimen of a cock capercailzie on the wing. British Birds Eggs—I little auk, 1-4 common snipe, 1-2 Richardson's or Arctic skua, 1-3 kite, 1-5 red-footed falcon, 1-3 osprey, 1-5 lesser grey shrike, 1-5. meadow pipit, 1-5 tree pipit, 1-5 tree sparrow, 1-2 turtle dove, 1-4 reed warbler, 1-9 red grouse—all choice clutches, some of them exceptionally rare and beautiful specimens.

Further additions will shortly be made from the balance los. 7d.). of the Natural History Society's funds Three new table-cases are shortly to be added, and we shall soon be able to inspect the fine geological collection at present locked away in a cabinet, for lack of space to exhibit it.

Our Contemporaries.

We acknowledge with thanks the following magazines.

We regret that lack of space prevents us in this, as in the previous issue, from making any comment upon them. We hope to be able to do so in our next issue :— " Gordonian," "Edinburgh Academy Chronic.le" (3), " Fettesian " (2), " Watsonian," " Glasgow Academy Chronicle," " Glasgow High School Magazine," " Mercers' Magazine," " Olavian " (2), " Portmuthian " (2), " C.A.I." (2), " St. Andrew's College Magazine" (Dublin), " St. Andrew's College Magazine (Grahamstown, S.A.), "Yellow Dragon" (2) "Scotch Collegian," "Nelsonian," "Forum" (2), "Blade," " Review," " Ball. High School Magazine " (Texas), " High School Magazine" (2), Liverpool, N.Y., "Keramos" (2), " Courier ' (3), " Sphinx."

69

The School and the Secondary Grant.

The Grammar School and the Secondary School Grant.

The following extract from the Board's Minutes of 23rd December, 1909, which recently appeared in the local press, will be of interest to many of our readers at home and abroad :— The Rector calls attention to the figures appearing on pp. 46-5o of Dr. Struthers' Report on Secondary Education for the year 1909.

The figures relate to the financial year of the schools ending at 31st July, 1908. Taking the number of students over 15 in actual average attendance at each school, the following comparative facts are adduced with reference to six of the largest Secondary Schools in Scotland :— Actual Average Attendance throughout the year of Scholars Scholars Percentover r 5 over 15 age of Scholars who do not (Secondary) Secondary in the school yet hold who hold Pupils to under over Intermediate Intermediate Pupils 15.

15.

Certificate.

Certificate. over 15.

George Watson's Gordon's College Glasgow High - Dundee High - Edinburgh High Aberdeen Grammar

8 57

443 581 264 268

341 398 220

148 76

333

32 57

184 120

36 26

34 to

17 69

253

9'4 14'3 I 6.4 17.6 22.4

86.2 348 80 The figures for all the 55 Secondary Schools enumerated in the above Report by Dr. Struthers give 6,328 pupils over 15 years of age, whereof only 1,407 qualified for the Higher Grant, that is, 22 per cent. of the whole.

It is understood that in the same period, 1907-08 (the last year for which official figures are yet available), the Grammar School gained more than half the Higher Certificates for Science awarded to our district.

The age of 15 is taken to mark the point at which a pupil is permitted to obtain the Intermediate Certificate and to pass into a Secondary or post-Intermediate Course. The percentages given above show that in the Grammar School the Secondary pupils bear to those in the school over 15 the highest percentage of any school in Scotland.

The significance of the figures is apparent. They show that in point of numbers the Grammar School has fewer scholars over 15 who have not obtained the Intermediate Certificate, and more Secondary students than any of the six schools named.

Its proportion of Secondary students to the number in the school over 15 (86•z per cent.) is so much higher than that of any of the others, as to be altogether surprising.

The point last mentioned may be made clearer in another way. If, for example, the six schools in proportion to their numbers over 15 had had the same percentage of Secondary students as the Aberdeen

•

6

,o

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Grammar School, the pupils of the Secondary stage in each would have been as follows :— Secondary Pupils On Grammar School Actual.

Proportion.

293 32 George Watson's _ Gordon's College 342 57 36 Glasgow High 189 26 127 Dundee High Edinburgh High 65 17 69 69 Aberdeen Grammar It might be supposed that the high proportion of pupils over 15 in the Grammar School who have obtained the Intermediate Certificate, or, to put it otherwise, who are following a Secondary or post-Intermediate course, is owing to the advanced age of the pupils. That this is not so is evident from the following comparison of the ages of the pupils in the six schools already named :— .

•

Number of Pupils at the following ages:—

I2.15.

15-16.

16-17.

17-18

18.19.

Over 19.

Total over

Proportion per cent of whole

15.

Over 12

George Watson's - 438 168 no 55 28 9 363 45'3 52'2 170 126 66 Gordon's College - 411 53 33 448 138 - 402 84 Glasgow High — 14 239 37'3 3 51 37 15 8 168 51.1 Dundee High - - 161 57 i 8o J9•6 3 Edinburgh High - 122 41 26 9 Aberdeen Grammar 166 35 36 12 2 1 86 34.1 Again, if,. attention be directed as regards these six schools (1) to the number of pupils over 15 who have not yet obtained the Intermediate Certificate; (2) to the number of students earning the Secondary School Grant ; and (3) to the amount of grant earned, the following significant facts are adduced :—

George Watson's Gordon's College Glasgow High Dundee High Edinburgh High Aberdeen Grammar

Average number over r5 not possessing Intermediate Certificate.

Average number Secondary Pupils earning Grant.

253 333 184

78 59 36

amount of Grant.

£371 246 166 120 27 83o 18 86 34 to 85 393 If the two Secondary Schools in Aberdeen for boys are singled out of the above list for comparison, it will be seen that while the one has the larger number of pupils over 15 who have not obtained the Intermediate Certificate, the other has the larger number of Secondary pupils and the larger Secondary Grant. The Secondary Grant earned by the Grammar School during the'year to which the figures apply is in point of fact the highest in Scotland, thereby showing that the school is fulfilling in a high degree its function as a Secondary School.

As illustrating inferentially the quality of the work done in the Lower or Preparatory Section of the Grammar School in preparing -

•

The School and the Secondary Grant.

71

pupils for entrance at or after 12 on the Intermediate Certificate Course, the following figures applicable to the six schools already referred to speak for themselves and merit consideration :— Pupils, 12 to 15, in average attendance.

Recognised as having passed Percentage Qualifying or of whole Not so Equivalent Unrecognised.

Recognised.

Examination.

George Watson's Gordon's College Glasgow High Dundee High Edinburgh High Aberdeen Grammar For all 55 Secondary Schools

261 292 268 102

too 1 59 5,817

148 69 112 36 13 4 ____ 1,531

36.2 19'1 29.4 26.1 11'5 2'5

-20. 8

The late Dean Danson.

Although the late Dean Danson was not an Old Boy, yet we looked on him as almost one of ourselves. During his long residence in Aberdeen he was a strong supporter of the School. He sent us all his sons as pupils. While he was Chairman 'of the School Board, our School was his especial care. He was one of the Patrons of our Literary None Society, and on many occasions lectured to us. present at his lectures can ever forget the golden eloquence, the polished periods, the perfect enunciation.

When you add to this a keen appreciation of humour, you have got the perfect lecturer. In particular, we remember one occasion when he lectured to us on Spenser's " Faery Queen." The whole audience, down to the smallest boy, sat hushed in silence, listening to the silvery lines falling from the lips of this master of language. And some of us went home and re-read what we had heard. We beg to offer our little tribute of respect to his memory, and our sincere sympathy to the relatives of the late Dean.

72

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

The School in 1868=73. to [NOTE.—The fact that this article was written with a view ublication in the last issue of the Magazine explains the references to MAG."] events which are not now contemporary.—ED., "A. G. S. "Floating past me seems My childhood in this childishness of mine ; I care not —'tis a glimpse of Auld Lang Syne."—Byron.

I happened to be present at a class reunion at Christmas last year, when one of the speakers broke ground with what may have seemed to many at the time a revolutionary proposal. He said he would like to see in class records and speeches at reunions some mention of our schools and schoolmasters, mentioning some and emphasising the name of the late Rector of this School, Dr. Moir. I regard the proposal as eminently sane and just, and I would suggest to the compilers of these works the inclusion of sketches and reminiscences of such men. It is obvious that the influence of the schoolmaster is everything and that of the professor is little or nothing. I know in my own case it is so, and I can trace all along the North to-day men who are the creation of their masters. They hold their Old Boys in mortmain. " When I talked my best," said Lord Chesterfield, " I quoted Horace," and in the very tones and accents of some friends I detect the living influence of many men dead and gone. Even at this moment am I not reproducing the handwriting of Minstrel Beattie and of Dr. Melvin, tempered by the touch of Mr. Samuel Pope? We have not yet got free of the schoolmaster. He is abroad, in that famous phrase of Lord Brougham, and I fancy Darwin and Spencer have greatly overdone the influence of the hereditary element, and missed the acquired, in life.

Cook and Peary say they have discovered the North Pole, and yet I am sure to some of my time it would be no easy task to discover the Grammar School from the back.

I fried it in imagination some days ago and got almost lost.

The disappearance of every old landmark is most bewildering. In 1906, one of my old class, home from Chicago, strayed wildly in the present playground, which we remembered as a potato field. He looked in vain 'for the wooden paling which we took as a short cut, over which he once left in tatters the leg of a trouser, and myself part of a.kilt.

The slopes are now streets, while he was as bald as the egg

The School in 1868-73.

73

of the Great Auk. Yet he could recollect the class of 1868 to a hair. And, really, in America, where, said he, " If I were not a member of several St. Andrew Societies I might drop to-day and take my chance of being forgotten and unburied to-morrow in the race for the dollar," it is something to have your anchor cast deep in the past of a School like ours. It is, perhaps, with St. Nicholas Church and St. Machar's, the oldest institution in the city. Look at Charles Lamb talking in an awe-struck way about his school, Christ's Hospital—" Our founder, that godly and Royal child, King Edward VI., the flower of the Tudor name " ; and then at Thackeray dilating on the 1611 Charterhouse— " An ancient foundation of the time of James I. still subsisting in the heart of London City." Why, these places are mere creations of the jerry-builders compared with the Grammar School. The University itself is only the " unearned increment " of the School.

I see as clear as my hand that October morning in 1868 when we entered the room that was then Dr. Beverly's and thereafter the English Class, opposite the Master's room.

I believe it is now altered out of all recognition, but if any of my class is proprietor, joint-tenant, or heir-at-law to any landed property and lacks legal recognition of his identity, I hereby call upon him " to communicate with the undersigned, when he will hear of something to his advantage."

I shall identify him. About two years ago an article in the London papers, written surely by some Old Boy, dwelt on the fact that the kilt at the Grammar School was being largely worn, and bag-piping was popular. The last clause I read with mixed feelings. About half of the First Class wore the kilt, myself included; one had black velveteens and red stockings ; breeks and knickerbockers claimed the other half. Knickers, now so popular, were unknown.

One came from Shetland dressed in the native homespun of the island., but did not stay long in the class. He bore, for part of his name, Zachary Macaulay, and, I think, was some relation of the late Sir Robert Hamilton, who came from Bressay, graduated at King's College in 1854, and, as Permanent Under-Secretary for Ireland, was the first man to suggest Home Rule for Ireland to Mr. Gladstone. Silver Street Academy, Sim's Academy, the Trades School, and some others in town and country fed the class. Aberdeen has always been a well-taught city, and I should like to denounce in fit terms some upstarts who, with the all too copious jargon of education lecturers and the Education

74

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Department in their heads, conceive themselves superior to their predecessors. They but deceive themselves with a diarrhoea verborum, and vixere fortes ante Aganzenznona.

All the elementary schools in town were well taught, and, looking back to 1866, I have pleasure in stating that in NIr. Charles Michie, of Silver Street Academy, who is still with us, Aberdeen has had one of the most efficient and best of her teachers.

Beverly came first. It was the day of the old Regent system, the master taking the class through for four years and handing it over to the Rector in the fifth. " Dick " Beverly, the Rev. Alexander Beverly, was Dux of the School in 1840 and First Bursar at Marischal College. He died in 1887, in the 64th year of his age, and is buried in the entrance pathway of St. Machar's, being the uncle of my old friend in the Second Class, George Henry, Second Bursar in 1872, the late medical missionary at Lake Nyassa, in Central Africa. " Dick's " lameness cost him the Rectorship in 1853, when the late Principal Sir William Geddes was elected. I have rarely seen a more competent man than " Dick " : he was there, emphatically all there, Melvin in duodecimo, even to the snuff. What a change from 1868 to 1 909 ! The English text-book was Marmion, and only the bare text (to the great advantage of the competent and informed teacher) was then to be procured. To-day the teacher finds himself swamped with compilations, where ten pages of notes are given to half a page of text, enslaving alike master and boy. Before the day of Bain, Beverly had taught Dalgleish's Analysis of Sentences, the dread of the class. Not a day of my life passes but I feel grateful for the rigid and inflexible accuracy of Beverly. I had his displeasure only once—Quercus written out four times, for incautiously exchanging a few words with Charlie Sinclair, son of the librarian of the Mechanics' Institution in Market Street. The old traditional method of the School in orals was kept up—a pack of cards with the names of the boys on them, so that each had the same chance of being called on. His Latin Exercises, I believe, are still in use, being constructed to be a mass of traps, and embodying every Wednesday the teaching of the week. He was strong in Natural Science and Mathematics, and in every way was a tower of strength to the School.

We have been having Lord Rosebery, some days ago, dilating on Dr. Johnson. Let me here borrow the lexicographer's famous phrase, in dealing with one in whose class

The School in 1868-73.

75

I never was, one whose name, I am sure, will stir pleasant memories wherever this Magazine penetrates at home and abroad. " Of James Wilson Legge, thus presented to my mind, let me indulge myself in the remembrance." He stood, boy and man, for the Grammar School, and was a classfellow of Sir James Stirling. I question if Legge has lost the affection all through life of a single boy. He had one idol in life—Melvin. " It has been a pleasure," he said once to me, " that I happened to be in the School by chance the very last day the doctor taught. I see him as he broke down and was carried out in the janitor's arms."

Like all wise men, Legge loved the Christy Minstrels. For days before the event came off in the Music Hall or the Mechanics' Hall, he would aggressively formulate his intention of not being present. "What would the boys think if they saw Mr. Legge (` Leggie,' as they call him) at a— nigger entertainment ! " Later on he began to thaw : " The men meant well, but every one must judge for himself." On the actual day virtue capitulated, and he would be seen in the front seats, unabashed and jubilant, impartial to all the items, but, like all profound and serious natures, reserving his special favour for the corner-men. He was the only Conservative on the staff, the rest being Liberals and Free Church men. This gave him the means of gratifying his admiration of Disraeli. " When that illustrious statesman," he said, blandy smiling at my incredulity, "had a Latin address from the City, I suggested, through the Rector, to John Angus, the Town Clerk, the including of the idea that Disraeli was a novus home, in the words of a book in the class at the time: ' Artifex sui, et nulla notus commendatione majorum.' " Thomas Still took the Second Class on the election of Martin as Rector, and carried us through the third and fourth year. Still's memory I hold in high regard : he knew his work, taught the version well, and was strong in the Melvin traditions. English became an integral part of the course in 1869, when Munson, i First Bursar from the School in 1863, and now Professor of Roman Law, University College, London, was appointed. Bain's Grammar then became a recognised feature in the School ; we were kept at it for four years, and could nearly repeat it when the Bursary Competition came. No better English grammar goes. though it may be a little above boys. Lt became the watchword of the rival parties in the North, dividing the hopes and affections of a generation with Geddes' Greek

76

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Grammar, eclipsing the gaiety of families, and impoverishing the stock of the harmless pleasures of mankind. It even embittered funerals. I remember, at the funeral of Professor Black, in 1881, the late Interim-Rector of the School, Dr. T. A. Stewart, taking his place in the procesHe sion by my side in a state of great excitement. explained that Professor Minto in the Senatus Room had made a fierce attack on Geddes' Grammar, with the deliberate intention of causing a scene! About 1873, in the General Council, the father of a classfellow in the Fifth Class had introduced a tirade on Bain, whose " book was a mere catchpenny local print, only saved from falling stillborn from the press through being bolstered up by the necessities of the Bursary Competition." Such were the Flosculi Boreales of academic wit in my time. Both books are excellent.

To think of Mr. Pope is to feel young. But I never knew Mr. Pope till the dinner last year, when we all met him. To me since 1869, when I entered his class, he had been " Sammy." Time has swept away the slopes and the garden in which he used to be seen at work. There he sat, with his hair untouched. among his bald-headed pupils. " I still feel very fit," he said, " and am hopeful, after forty years of teaching, of doing some good work yet within the School, before the curtain is rung down and I make my bow and retire from the stage."

Mathematics I have never affected, and the work of the Rev. George McArthur and Mr. Charles Sleigh lives simply in memory as physical torture. The first was not supported in his discipline as he ought to have been, and his class was chaos. But he was the best man all round of his year in His mathematical King's College, graduating in 185o. abilities were undoubted, and his lightning summation of long columns was phenomenal. He holds a record : he read every word of the Encyclopaedia Britannica, having acted as the press-reader of that great work. Chess was his relaxation, and I think in our time he conducted the chess column of the Illustrated London News.

Martin was Rector. He is in my heart of hearts, for he discharged the duties of the office to perfection. The world thought him cold, and he certainly never affected the popular role. The School all during his time was passing through a critical phase—it was under the Town Council, who never by any conceivable hypothesis could run a It was understaffed, underpaid, school with efficiency.

The School in 1868-93.

77

under-encouraged. There was no co-operation, no recognition of its work, and little appreciation or knowledge of its great traditions.

But Martin did his work admirably, teaching the Fourth Class in Greek, as well as the Fifth or Rector's Class. His discipline was perfect, and he had made it clear to his own mind that the Rector of the Grammar School can never and ought never to be seen in undress uniform. This tells immensely in after life, when boys, unconsciously or otherwise, model themselves on their masters. He has not lost a man of his boys. He died in September, 1907, retiring from work in 188T, quite unknown almost by sight to the present generation.

The last time I was in the School, I was surprised to hear someone playing the piano.

This shows we are moving, and this recognition of an important subject was, like Cadbury's Cocoa, " grateful and comforting." In my time it would have caused a riot, and been regarded as revolutionary. If some in after life have lost a little moral balance, I trace it to some lack of intellectual interests and width of view. It was hammer or anvil, Geddes' Grammar or Bain's ; Latin or Euclid. But there must be many who care for neither, and the understaffing of the School was the fault. It was the same at Arts. I often think of the man at my elbow for four years, a Highlander of about fifty, preparing for the ministry. I never saw him smile all the time. What must have been the intense suffering and utter loneliness of that man on the flinty streets of Aberdeen !

I think, if I may be permitted to say so, that the Grammar School still suffers from a certain disloyalty on the part of Old Boys. Not of all, by any means. But I do know, from personal knowledge, that many bear it no affection. They cannot or will not see, what I have tried here to explain, that from 1868 to 1881 was a period of transition. There was no system and no life. That is all changed now, and Old Boys have quite re-created the place, which is about twice the size of the old building.

The moral tone (the main thing) was excellent, and to-day I rejoice to think that the great historic School of the North of Scotland takes a truer estimate of its place than to regard the Bursary Competition as the end of all things.

That way confusion lies, and its record in every field of life and work for the community is the best proof that all is going well with the Grammar School. I know its history and have studied its roll from its earliest days. I say again,

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

78

"the it is something for pupils, in what Gibbon calls anchor browner shades of life," to feel that they have their than holding true to the life of the city in its past no less hold to language, feudal in pleasant, is It present. in its away far the in superior of somebody and to have some years. As a good Aberdonian, I distrust and despise the its man who depreciates his native city or makes light of to like I myself, For appliances. educational and social Grammar, Martin's and Exercises Beverly's me see about and other School books of the unforgotten past. These feelings keep me young.

WM. KEITH LEASK.

-

With the Viceroy.

" I am directed by the Inspector-General to inform you that you and have been placed on special duty with the Viceroy at Lucknow, you with taking November, i4th the on there arrive to should arrange a horse suitable for escort."

i4th November.

Leaving Rurki on the 13th, at i1.3o p.m., we arrive in Lucknow on the next morning, and find a busy transformation of the Oudh and Rohilkhand Railway Station. Bundles of flags lie about, some drapings are in position, others are being rapidly adjusted; the platform is thronged with native policemen, in their khaki and scarlet, coming in from out-districts, and littered with beams and fittings. Officials run about shouting directions, visitors are here, there, and everywhere, making endless inquiries, while ticca-gharies A are doing a roaring trade from the station enclosure. model engine stands in solitary grandeur on the spot once devoted to a booking-office, and we drive off from the bewildering scene to snatch breakfast from a friend. Then a tub after the night's journey, a change into Sunday garb, and we start the necessary calls on high officials. A hard day is spent in getting things to rights, and in the Chatter Manzil Club in the evening we meet several old acquaintances, including some brother officers who also have been summoned in. By 9 p.m. we are installed in charge of a camp of three hundred police, all in regularly pitched tents, with a temporary telephone establishment, electric light, and guardroom, where in the morning there was but a stretch

With the Viceroy.

79

uninhabited, save for of dusty ground within a wire fence, to this camp, addition In a stray coolie or a prowling dog. near encamped are duty, for in drafted one hundred police, a occupy eighty Government House, and one hundred and of quiet the from change a is It site near the Racecourse. nights and the the northern sub-division, with the bitter cold tramp of the The hills. snows gleaming over the lower sharp chalthe voices, excited of hum subdued sentry, the Luckair. the in is lenge, betoken that something unusual the receive to preparing is Oudh," of now, " the Fairy City Empire.

Indian the of gentleman first rehearsals, The 15th, 1 6th, 17th, i8th are taken up with influx of steady a with overflowing to fill and the hotels like, are such and hires, sightseers. The prices of carriage hereditary the apace, multiply decorations doubled; street country princes of Oudh (taluqdars) have all deserted their that city the in equipages gay houses, and are out in their her is Lucknow ancestors. their of mausoleums holds the ' thronged colours, many queenly self again, brilliant with glittering spires and minarets many her with the illustrious, in the sun.

1gth November.

In the chill hour of the dawn the police are paraded and intermarched off down the route which they have to line, at House.

Government to vals of twenty paces, from the station At 7 a.m. all are in position, the cross roads are strengthened of a by sowars and European constables, and the murmur canfrom troops the of approach distant drum betokens the tonments. An hour more and they are posted in front of to the police, and the last few carriages roll down the route and seats, obtain may ones privileged the the station, where the select distinguished nervously await presentation. The their traffic is now stopped, the police officers ride down every arch„ triumphal every tree, every and sections, various bridge culvert comes under careful scrutiny. A little later the deputy inspector-general passes up the line, and, after final instructions to his junior officers, disappears into the railway station. A succession of bustling motors, with a large head sign, " G.H.," take the Government House party through, and, last of all, a single car speeds down with the Lieutenant-Governor of the Province, and the long, scarlet lines come to the salute as he reaches each company. Then there is silence for a time, which is suddenly broken by the deep-toned booming of thirty-one guns from the maidan

go

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

where the horse artillery are drawn up. The Viceroy has arrived. A quarter of an hour later the general in charge of the Lucknow Division, accompanied by his staff, rides down from the station, and ere he has gone half a mile the head of the escort emerges. In front is the deputy inspector-general of police, with his attendant sowar, and, behind, the lances and helmets of the Royals (15th Dragoons) in faultless dressing. The guard of honour has been inspected, the National Anthem has greeted the emissary of the Emperor, and now the thunder of cheers proclaims the people's welcome. We meet the cortege, ride down our section in front of it, and salute the Viceroy at the far end.

Our responsibility for the Public Arrival has ended. Within half an hour the stream of carriages has passed, and the men ' are marched back to camp. The first event has passed off successfully.

*

*

*

*

*

The Kaisar Bagh is a large palace built by Wajid Ali Shah, last king of Oudh. It is bounded on three sides by houses, and on the north by the tombs of Saadat Ali Khan and his wife, Khurshed Zadi (Daughter of the Sun). There are four principal gates, i.e., on the north, south, east, and west ; and in the centre of the pleasure garden is the Baradari building. It is a favourite haunt of tourists by day, but when the taluqdars hold a reception by night, it is impossible for the pen to describe the marvellous beauty of the numberless lights that show each cornice and angle and illuminate the delicate tracery of the carving. On this occasion the square has to be cleared before nightfall of all persons, European and native, who are not in possession of passes, and a double cordon of over four hundred police are employed to keep intruders out. By 8 p.m. the carriages of ticket-holders drive in at the Tombs entrance and Aminabad gate, and this influx continues for an hour and a half. Ticcagharies, traps, landaus, broughams, brakes, motors—all are here, in two long, quivering lines. On the steps of the Baradari the leading talaqdars receive the invited guests, and decorate each with a "har" of gilt thread, beautifully wrought by cunning workmen. The guard of honour marches up the avenue of light, and the band of the Durham Light Infantry supplies the musical completion of the scene.

Again a long pause„ and the Lieutenant-Governor's motor arrives ; a roar from the assembled multitude without, and the Viceroy's escort has passed in. We have been told off

With the Viceroy.

i

i

.

8i

to keep the square, and it is no easy matter. When the fireworks start, horses become unmanageable, and each rocket and bomb is followed by wild plunging of chargers which, as all fondly imagined, had had too long a day to care much what happened. In the end, most of the Royals (who have been invited to assist the police) and the sowars have to dismount, and the animals are led through the gate to the outer It is all street, where the various carriages are parked. wonderful, but more like an inferno than a dream. The continuous scream of rockets, the crash of "bangolas," the whirling myriad lights of every colour that nature or the heart of a man has devised, the gleaming white parapets of the Baradari, the flash of uniforms on the terrace. It has ceased, the escort forms up once more, and the Viceroy returns to Government House along a jealously guarded route.

By 1 i o'clock we are free, having been in the saddle from 5.30 a.m., with a break of only two hours. In a little a deep hush falls over the camp only the sentries are awake tonight.

2Oth November.

I

An early start must be made for the parade ground, where The National all the troops in garrison are assembled.

Anthem and the Royal Salute greet His Excellency, who canters on to parade like the old cavalry leader that he is.

He inspects the long line of troops, proceeds to the saluting base, and the march-past starts. First comes the Royal Horse Artillery—the pick of the army, then the Royal Dragoons, followed by a battery of Field Artillery, two regiments of British infantry—the Oxfords and Durhams, and, lastly, two native infantry regiments. The whole evolution is marked by perfect precision, but the spectators wait for the last event, and are not disappointed. To the tune of " Bonnie Dundee," the Horse Artillery flash past at full gallop, gun-wheels clear of each other by inches, and, with faultless front, follow the Royals in line of double squadrons, boot grazing boot—and the review is over.

The first game of polo is between the Royals and the gth Lancers, and the result is three goals to two in favour of the former, after a stern tussle necessitating two extra chukkers. The second game is void of interest, Cawnpore Gymkhana falling an easy victim to the Durham Light Infantry. The Royals' circus is a fitting close to another hard day.

82

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

2 1st November.

A special road has been made for the Viceroy's State Entry to the Races, breaking off Grant Road across a maidan, which is lined by police at intervals of twenty yards, and the road boundaries are shown by little lime-whitened This road cuts into the racecourse at the mud mounds. four-furlong posts, and, after the two first races have been run, a cloud of dust—that will rise, in spite of careful watering—betokens the arrival of His Excellency. On comes the escort—Royals again—with a famous tossing of horses' manes and champing of bits, down the straight between the rails where but ten minutes before the favourite in the Arab Handicap (i,ooo yards) came home to victory. The F.O. escort form up, facing the grand stand, and yet again the Royal Salute. Freed from our duties, we try conclusions with the " bookies " over the Army Cup, and lose heavily ; back the Viceroy's horse, in another race, to find it not placed ; discover that His Excellency is to return by another route, remove two hundred police from the special route, line them up along the intended course, and stop all traffic ; and, just when we are having a quiet talk with a lady friend in the paddock, the sea of lances surges into the straight, and we have to career, with a half-dozen sowars, to clear the way again to Government House, while our labour of the last hour counts for naught.

At 9.3o p.m. all who are of any importance are on their way to the Reception. In the outer hall one is directed to remove the glove of the right hand, and the LieutenantGovernor and Lady Hewett, in state panoply, shake hands with the guests, who pass through to the inner sanctum. It is rather a trying ordeal but the real chamber of terrors awaits us. The ballroom is thronged with every uniform in Northern India, military and political, and a goodly sprinkling of the dark-blue and silver of the police. Men adjust their gloves, and make certain of not having lost their two cards, which are an indispensable adjunct. Ladies talk nervously to each other, and make hurried notes of each other's toilette.

Rajahs strut about, in all the barbaric splendour of silk and aigrettes. Few know what is the procedure ; but a Boar opens, and half a dozen gilded A.D.C.'s advance up the middle of the room.

A lane opens out where they have passed through, and the National Anthem heralds the entry of the Viceroy and the Countess of Minto, who take up their position at the far end of the room, which is then roped off. The presentees pass from left to right,

I t

) i

With the Viceroy.

v

I

83

handing one card to the first A.D.C. and the second to the military secretary, who stands beside the Viceroy and recites the names. One's best bow, two steps more, and a still profounder bow to the Countess, and we are up the steps, and the ceremony for us is over. It is an interesting spectacle to watch, however, from the balcony above, " Quot homines, tot salaam." There is more variety among the male than the female presentees. To, the latter the Viceroy extends a Viceregal hand, and the Countess does likewise.

The carnal mind wonders where the refreshments are, but, alas! inquiry shows they are in the room behind the Viceregal party, and no one is sufficiently brave to venture past the cordon, in the full glare of publicity. It is a cunning contrivance—too much so for some, who furtively steal off and order their carriages, trusting to escape observation.

There is nothing new under the sun! The others wait till the way is clear and the presentation over.

23rd November.

4

•

Wheresoever the elephants are, there will the people be gathered together! East or West, a procession of these relics of a bygone age invariably attracts a crowd and it is no secret that on this day all the inhabitants of Lucknow and most of the neighbouring districts are eagerly expecting Long before the dawn, figures the elephant procession. muffled from the cold, in ekkas and on foot, are abroad, and there is high excitement in Daliganj, where the elephants are encamped overnight, to be in readiness for an early start.

Ere the sun rose red in the morning mist, the huge beasts, in all their glory of gold and silver housings, were on their way to the King's Hospital, whence the procession is to start. Maharajas, rajas, and lesser folk, swelling with importance, mount their elephants here, and the majestic line of 150 elephants starts along Victoria Street. The first elephant carries Lady Eileen and Lady Violet Elliot, the second to the sixth bear the Viceregal staff; then an interval, and the lordly Jang Bahadur, towering above his fellows, and caparisoned in cloth of gold, moves stately along, the Viceroy and the Countess of Minto on his howdah, with a row of mace-bearers walking on each side. Another interval, and the head of the real procession of elephants, pacing two deep, follows. Through the Victoria Park they come, beneath the Rumi Darwaza (emblematic of the sacred gate of Constantinople), and up to the heights of Machi Bawan,

84

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Here are the stands for Europeans and for natives who can afford to pay for seats. Yet again the Royal Salute from the waiting guard of honour ; the first elephants halt, and face the Viceroy's, which moves up the flower-dotted dais, and the review commences. By twos they pass the Viceregal stand, and by twos the elephants raise their trunks in salute. A quarter of an hour, and still there is no end of the line. Jang Bahadur, unnoticed, has emptied four flowerpots in front. All the splendour of the East, priceless drapings of earliest Nabob times, each with its own tale of love and bloodshed, all are here. We are carried back to Tamerlane and Alexander the Great. This sudden revelation of hidden riches is a dream. We gaze with the covetous eyes of barbarians on a scene that has nothing of the century in it, save the long double line of British infantry, impassive, on the route. Jang Bahadur descends, the Viceroy alights and is whirled swiftly off in a motor—common word !—and then we have to stem the rush of tens of thousands pressing on, ever on, to see it all.

The sun has set on Lucknow in her glory, and the streets echo with the rumble of carriages and the impatient hoots of the automobiles that carry society to the last function—the State Ball. At midnight the Viceroy leaves privately for Calcutta. Our work is over, and we heave a sigh of relief as we find a congenial partner for the " Merry Widow."

24th November.

What is this? The thanks of Government and—" My dear G.,—I am directed by the Inspector-General to inform you that you are placed on special duty with the Viceroy at Benares from the 2nd December."

There is no rest for the wicked! and we wonder when we shall see again the starlight on the Himalayan foot hills, and hear at eventide the sound of duck flighting to the lonely jhil.

FREDRIC W. GALLOWAY.

I t

)

•

Our Letter-Box.

85

Our Letter=Box. -

From a Canadian Professor.

t I

I i

The following letter, received from Professor Alexander R. Gordon, D.Litt., of Montreal, who was at the School from 1884 to 1888, and who is a life member of the Club, was unavoidably held over when the last Magazine was issued :— " 1173 Davie Street, " Vancouver, 5th June, 1909. " I think I told you the reason of my visit to the West.

The material development of Canada has happily gone hand in hand with a keen desire to promote the intellectual interests of the people as well, and provincial universities are being founded at all the chief centres of population.

True to their good old Scottish traditions, the Presbyterians of Canada -have determined not to fall behind. In the more settled cities of the East, colleges have long been in existence, all of these affiliated with the university of the city or province. Until last year, the most westerly of these was Winnipeg. It was resolved, however, to plant another at Vancouver, and thus complete the chain extending from Atlantic to Pacific. In this new land they do not wait for sufficient endowments before embarking on such ambitious schemes. They begin the work right off, trusting to the generosity of the people to supply the wherewithal. And, so far at least, they have never failed. The college here started operations last summer with a principal and four students—no buildings, no endowments, only the principal's salary guaranteed for a number of years. They got the right man, however, in the right place. Dr. John Mackay, who was asked to undertake what seemed so thankless a task, is a young Canadian, a graduate of Toronto University, but a theological alumnus of the Glasgow United Free Chuch College, where he caught the true Scottish enthusiasi for sound scholarship. At once he entered upon his work with an eagerness which chased away all difficulties.

A temporary staff was brought together from other colleges, a handsome building was bought and furnished, sufficient money was secured to cover all working expenses,

86

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

and, before the present session began, full endowments for two Chairs 'were added and another permanent professor appointed. For some time, however, help must be sought from the more settled colleges, and Dr. Mackay has been fortunate enough to secure for this session the assistance of his two most distinguished professors in Glasgow, Dr. George Adam Smith, so well known to Aberdeen men and boys, and Dr. Denney. Dr. Smith has not yet arrived, however, and the present staff consists of Drs. Mackay and Denney ; my colleague, Dr. R. E. Welsh, formerly of London ; and myself. For the short time it has been in existence, the college has made wonderful progress. This session there are 20 regular students. besides about 15 in a preparatory course. At this rate of progress it should soon prove one of the strongest colleges in the Dominion. " I greatly enjoy my work among the Canadian students.

They are not, perhaps, so steady, thorough workers as their brethren in the Old Land. They are a bit infected with the spirit of the country, which is predominantly practical, and, consequently, rather too eager for quick results.

But they are singularly honest, open-minded, appreciative fellows. I don't know what a college class in dear old King's would think if a student were to open a fire of crossexamination on the professor! But that is the regular practice here. If something is said from the sanctuary of the chair which a student does not quite understand or agree with, he will not hesitate to utter his objections or doubts, and will not rest content until he has got a satisfactory solution of his difficulties. Traditions are extant in all the colleges of how this professor and that were baited by the class. But now, I must say, the students are thoroughly respectful in their questioning, and seek only to see light through thorny places. Many of my happiest hours in class have been spent pretty extensively in this way. The professor is thus kept in close touch with the students' minds, not left to drift into some region altogether apart from them, as sometimes happens in older lands.

With eager minds like these to keep one alive, there is no fear of getting stale and fossilised. " The journey across was a wonderful experience, thliugh at times a bit wearisome. The first part was singularly uninteresting, until we came to Lake Superior.

The glimpses we enjoyed of the blue waters were an inexpressible relief from the rough, shaggy landscape we had been striving for a whole day to penetrate. Another day was

I

Our Letter-Box.

f

i

•

I

87

spent on the prairies. I must say I altogether failed to catch the prairie fever. The reason was no doubt largely that a blizzard raged the whole time ; and the sight of endless tracts of flat, snow-covered plain, with but here and there an isolated farm-house, proved anything but exhilarating. One longed for the godd old days of prairie fires and buffaloes to enliven the scene! Once in sight of the Rockies, however, one's spirits rose. And from the time we began to thread their stupendous masses to our arrival in Vancouver, the journey proved full of interest.

The Rockies themselves were almost too stupendous. The Selkirks attracted me much more. But the most pleasing section of all was the descent of the Fraser River. The scenery here was endlessly varied and charming—above us the great, snowy mountains, with their slopes of rich green spruce and pine, and at our feet the river, bordered by the most luxuriant gardens, fields, and forests. We did revel in the sight of green grass once more, having seen none since we left Scotland in the autumn. " Vancouver itself is a charming city, quite the most delightful residence I have yet met with in Canada. The situation is perfect. At every cross street the eye is greeted The by wonderful views of mountain, forest, and sea. geniality of its climate, combined with other attractions, and its commanding position at the meeting-point of East and West, are bound to make of Vancouver one of the most important cities in the world. One is not surprised to find Scotchmen, therefore, very much in evidence. Here should be a fine field for the enterprise of old Grammar boys. So far, I have met but one of these—W. Rae, who left School in 1899 or igoo. He occupies a good position in the Bank of Commerce. Another Old Boy, H. G. M. Wilson, is in the same bank, and one or two of the Grays are also in Vancouver. But these should be but the forerunners of a goodly band, who will win laurels for the old School. " I think this must do for one letter. Some other time I shall write you again from Montreal. There are always interesting happenings there, too."

88

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Judicial Night.

It was an expectant crowd that filled the court on the evening of 3rd December, t9og. Two stalwart policemen at the door were guarding the peace, and prevented any advocates of Women's Suffrage from entering the sacred precincts of the court.

But even the policemen could not have kept order had not the audience ever and anon been hushed at the sight of • the shadow of a grave and pompous judge or bewigged counsel which appeared on the partition separating the court from the robing-room of the men of law.

Punctual almost to the minute, the usher, in imposing wig and gown, announces to the court that the judge and counsel are entering.

An expectant awe falls upon all, and soon appears a solemn judge —wig and gown, glasses and swagger all complete ; behind him come the counsel for the prosecution ; and last, but not least, those for the defence. The jury was then sworn in, and the usher proceeded to read the charge :— " Whereas it bath been ordained by the constituted and sanctified powers of this realm of Great Britain and Ireland, and bath been ratified and approven of His Most Sacred Majesty the King, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons, that that man or woman who (Toth, in the vileness of his or her mortal frame, assault and batter any one of the King's lieges, whether male, female, or otherwise, shall be arraigned before a duly constituted court, which shall be empowered to try, and to inflict just penalties upon that person or persons thus arraigned, by the Act of Parliament of 1841, Cap. II., Sec. 3 ; of 1796, Cap. X., Sec. 18 ; of 1547, Cap. I., Sec. 1. By this authority, we do hereby this day charge you, Toothpick Spankhard, spinster, residing at the house of ' Windylea,' in Broomhill Road, of this city of Aberdeen, with committing assault and battery upon the person of Augustus Gladstone Harcourt Bright Cobden Russell Rosebery Palmerston Fox Walpole Vinnyard, member of the House of Commons, representing the electors of Methlick Burghs, at his residence of ' The Beeches,' in this city of Aberdeen, on Monday, first day of November, of this year of grace nineteen hundred and nine. And may the best man win."

t

4

*

Judicial Night.

89

This impressive indictment ended, the senior counsel for the prosecution delivered his oration to the jury in wellchosen and well-delivered words. He then called upon the usher to bring in the witnesses for the prosecution.

These witnesses having exhausted their fund of humour and the patience of the counsel, the senior counsel for the defence rose to make his appeal to the jury in defence of the prisoner. His speech was followed by the witnesses for the defence, who proved themselves equally trying to judge and counsel.

The judge then called upon the junior counsel for the defence to reply, and he was followed by the junior counsel for the prosecution.

This over, the judge hitched his robes over his shoulders, rearranged his glasses on his nose, gave a preliminary cough, and proceeded to lay the facts before the jury in a very intricate and involved oration.

The jury, who seemed but little impressed with the responsibility laid upon their shoulders, then retired; but hardly had the door closed behind them when it reopened, and they marched in smiling and contented. Their aspect raised the hopes and dispersed the fears of the counsel for the defence ; but imagine their consternation and the despair of the prisoner when the foreman of the jury gave the verdict, in solemn and sorrowful tones, " Guilty, my lord."

Scenes of the wildest excitement ensued—so much so, that the judge, whose voice was of no mean order, scarcely could be heard when he gave the sentence of " Twopenceha'penny to pay, or marry the pursuer," which latter alternative both pursuer and defendant embraced gladly.

Our best thanks are due to Mr. E. Main for the excellent way in which he performed the none too easy duties of judge, to Mr. J. H. N. Craigen for so kindly coming down to assist in the making-up, and to the janitor for his help in the arrangement of the courtroom.

90

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

otsamaimail-Wil

"DEBATEr

NOTE

28th September, 1909.—The Society met in Room I. at 4 o'clock—Mr. Murison, Hon. President, in the chair. The Patrons and honorary office-bearers were re-elected as last year, with the addition of Mr. Charles Davidson as an Hon. Vice-President. The following were elected acting officebearers :—President, Mr. A. F. Hyslop; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. J. L. Booth and A. Johnstone ; Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. S. C. Still; Committee—Messrs. J. S. B. Forbes, J. Mackintosh, F. W. Metcalfe, T. 0. Robson, W. R. Tennant.

8th October, 1909.—The Society met in Room I. at 7 p.m.—Mr. A. F. Hyslop in the chair. The minutes for the General Meeting were read and approved. Then a " Hat Night" was proposed, seconded, and unanimously carried. A few of the debates were good, and the speaking was quite fair for the first meeting. The principal speakers were Messrs. Nicol, Metcalfe, Booth, and Johnstone.

15th October, 1909.—On this evening Messrs. A. Johnstone and A. F. Hyslop debated the question, " Should Capital Punishment be Abolished ? " Mr. Johnstone upheld the affirmative and Mr. Hyslop the negative side. Both gave very good papers, and were heartily applauded by the audience, who had almost no criticism at all to pass on either paper. The result of the vote was in favour of Mr. Hyslop by sixteen votes to ten. A " Hat Night" was then proposed, and elicited some good debates. The meeting broke up at g o'clock.

22nd October, 1909.—The Society met in Room I. at 7 o'clock to hear a lecture from G. M. Fraser, Esq., on " A

"Debater" Notes.

91

Historical Ramble through the Streets of Aberdeen." Mr. G. Middleton, Hon. Vice-President, occupied the chair, and introduced the lecturer. Mr. Fraser conducted us from the Bridge of Dee through some of the old streets of the town, explaining and describing many interesting relics of bygone days. Mr. Middleton, in a few appropriate words, called for a vote of thanks, which was cordially given; Mr. Hyslop then called upon the Society to accord the chairman a vote The of thanks, which also was heartily responded to.

Society then devoted itself to a " Hat Night," which brought out many good debates and speeches.

29th October, 1909.--On this night the Society met to discuss and criticise the Magazine.

Mr. A. Johnstone, Vice-President, was in the chair.

The minutes of last meeting were read and approved. The criticism all evening was most trivial, most of the remarks being made upon the advertisements.

After the criticism was over, some impromptu debates were proposed and discussed.

The meeting broke up at 9 o'clock.

5th November. 1909.—The Society met in Room I. at 7 p.m.—Mr. A. F. Hyslop in the chair. The business of the evening was " Heckling Night." The wards and candidates were as follows :—Ruthrieston—Messrs. J. S. B. Forbes and A. Johnstone ; Rubislaw—Messrs. J. L. Booth, F. W. Metcalfe, and W. R. Tennant.

All candidates made good, vigorous speeches, and all got a lively and spirited heckling.

The results of the voting were :—Ruthrieston—Mr. A. Johnstone ; Rubislaw—Mr. F. W. Metcalfe ; both of whom are to be congratulated on their return.

12th November, 1909.-4ev. James Smith, B.D., F.R.G.S., F.S.A.Scot., delivered a lecture on " A Trip to Palestine," in Room V., at 7 p.m. Mr. Munson was in the chair, and introduced the lecturer in a few well-chosen remarks. Mr. Smith's lecture was illustrated with limelight views. He took us through most of the principal towns of Palestine, and showed and described many places of interest. The lecture was very interesting and instructive throughout. At the close of the lecture, Mr. Munson called upon Mr. Hyslop to propose a vote of thanks to the lecturer, which was very heartily accorded. Mr. Smith thanked the Society for their attention, and proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Munson for presiding, and to the janitor for manipulating the lantern. There was an exceptionally good attendance.

D2

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

19th November, 1909.—The Society met in Room I. at 7 p.m. to hear a debate between Messrs. J. L. Booth and W. R. Tennant on the comparative merits of a modern and a classical training. Mr. Tennant espoused the modern side, and gave a very interesting paper in its praise. He was followed by Mr. Booth with an equally good paper in support of the classical side.

Although almost the whole of the audience was classical, the result was in favour of Mr. Tennant by 21 votes to 17. A " Hat Night " was held afterwards, and included some good debates and speakers.

26th November, 1909.—On this evening the Society heard what turned out to be one of the best lectures ever delivered under its auspices. The Rev. F. Wilson, B.D., gave a lecture on " A Tour through Eastern Canada." Mr. Charles Davidson, Hon. Vice-President, occupied the chair.

The lecturer had many excellent slides to illustrate his lecture, including splendid photos of the Niagara Falls.

The lecturer had a very humorous and vivacious style, and was awarded a hearty vote of thanks, on the motion of the chairman. Mr. M. H. Mackie, who was a guest for the evening, proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the chairman, which was cordially given, as also was a vote of thanks to the janitor for manipulating the lantern.

3rd December, 1909.—" Judicial Night " was held on this evening, a report of which will be found elsewhere. roth December, 1909.—The Society met in Room I. at 7 p.m.—Mr. A. F. Hyslop in the chair. The business of the evening was " Readings and Impromptu Debates." Only two readings were forthcoming—one from Mr. F. W. Metcalfe, and the other from the Secretary. A "Hat Night," which did not call forth many good debates or speeches, occupied the rest of the eveRiing. The Society broke up at 9 o'clock. aith December, 1909.—On this evening a " Sing-Song," open to the whole School, was held—Mr. A. F. Hyslop in the chair. The attendance was smaller than expected, but quite large enough to make itself heard. Songs were delivered during the evening by the Committee, Messrs.

Duffus, Newton, and Hyslop, and other combinations. At the finish, compliments were sung to the President, the Secretary, various gentlemen who had contributed to the programme, the masters and, finally, the janitor. At the end of the meeting the Society showed its appreciation of the President by escorting him through the grounds shoulder-high.

•

))

School Football Notes.

93

4

I

The School XV. opened their football season at the School grounds on 9th October with a match against 2nd Queen's Cross. The result was :—School, 14 points (i goal 3 tries) ; Queen's, 4 points (i dropped goal).

•

I

I

znd F.P.'s v. School.—This match was played at Mannofield on 16th October, in splendid weather. A draw of 6 points each was the final result. The School were very unfortunate in not winning a most interesting and stubbornly contested game.

23rd October, 1909.—On the above date the School and 2nd Queen's Cross met at the School in dull, cold weather.

The School kicked off against a stiff wind, and for some time play was very equal. Queen's, however, broke away at last, but their promising rush was stopped in fine style by Benton, who was tackling and kicking in a very confident manner. A succession of scrums brought Queen's into the School twenty-five, where they were kept well in hand by the School defence. After some smart work by the School forwards, the ball was passed out to Leith, who scored, after a fine individual effort, a run of more than half the length of the field. He took the kick himself, and earned full Half-time—School, 5 points ; Queen's Cross, o. points.

Playing with the wind, the School soon attacked, but were slowly forced back by the Queen's smart forwards. About

'94

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

midfield the School " threes " got the ball, and, after a clever run, Leith scored a second try, which he also converted.

From the kick-off the School again pressed, and soon forced the ball behind their opponents' line, where a try was After this, awarded for unfair play. Leith converted.

Queen's took up the offensive, and scored off a penalty near the touchline. Back went the School into their opponents' twenty-five, and J. Mackintosh scored a fine try, which was followed by another by J. F. Mackintosh. Leith converted Near time Queen's scored a second try, both of them. which Bannochie converted, and the game ended :—School, 25 points (5 goals) ; Queen's, 8 points ( i goal i try). Mr. J. W. Milne acted efficiently as referee.

3oth October, 1909.—Our first match against Gordon's College was played at the School, on a soft and treacherous pitch. From the kick-off Gordon's pressed, until Stronach scored an unconverted try. After this reverse the School recovered brilliantly, and D. Leith and J. Mackintosh headed raids into Gordon's territory. Just before half-time, J. F. Mackintosh wriggled through and scored. D. Leith failed to improve on it. Playing downhill in the second half, the School penned Gordon's into their own twenty-five, and here was especially noticeable the spflendid work done by the SchOol forwards in the open, G. Leith, M. Macrae, and T. B. Mackenzie in particular. Collie touched the ball down behind Gordon's line, and the match was won, for until time was called the School pressed harder than ever, and D. Leith many times just failed to score. The condition of the pitch was all against such a light School XV. as this season's, and they thus deserve all the more credit for their win. All the forwards worked like Trojans; among the backs, J. F. Mackintosh, J. Mackintosh, and D. Leith were certainly best. Mr. D. J. T. Jamieson proved himself a most able and impartial referee.

6th November, 19o9.—On this date the School XV. met the 'Varsity A at King's College, in ideal football weather.

'Varsity won the toss, and played towards King Street. The School pressed at once, and again and again just failed to score. Suddenly the 'Varsity broke away, and, after a fine 'dribbling run, Clarke scored for them, but the try was not converted. There was now plenty of exciting play, mostly in the 'Varsity's twenty-five. Carroll then scored for the School, having secured the ball from a throw-out from touch.

.)

School Football Notes.

I

95

Half-time result :—School, 3 points (I try) ; 'Varsity A, 3 points (I try). During the whole of the second half the School kept the 'Varsity in their own half, and had the ball been oftener passed out by the halves to the three-quarters About fifteen minutes they would have scored oftener. scored a second try dribble, neat a after from time Carroll, for the School. This time Leith made no mistake with the kick. Immediately before the finish Leith scored and converted. Final result :—School, 13 points (2 goals i try) ; 'Varsity A 3 points (I try). Macrae, Elmslie, and G. Leith were the best of the very good set of School fo /ards.

13th November, 1909.—On this date a School team, without its captain, lined up at the School to oppose a For the first five or ten strong XV. of Gordon's F.P.'s. minutes the School pressed hard, but afterwards play was transferred to midfield. After a succession of mauls within their twenty-five line, the ball was kicked right across by one of the three-quarters, and A. Johnstone rushed down and, picking up smartly, scored a well-deserved try. The kick was unsuccessful. Until half-time play was about equal, and no further scoring took place. (After play was begun again', the opposing forwards played up, and twice in rapid succession scored, neither of the kicks getting full points.

This spurred on the School to new efforts, and so well did they play that they gave no further chance to the F.P.'s of scoring. Anderson and J. F. Mackintosh, after great efforts, both got in, but neither try was converted. Play concluded Result :—School, 9 points (3 with the ball in midfield. tries) ; G.C.F.P.'s, 6 points (2 tries).

On 27th November, 1909, a strong School XV. met the 2nd 'Shire, who were not up to their usual strength. The match ended rather before time, for the disheartened 'Shire gradually departed from the field. Final result :—School, 44 points ; 2nd 'Shire, nil. The chief scorers for the School were J. Mackintosh and A. Johnstone, each of whom scored three tries. ith December.. 19o9.----The second match with the 2nd F.P.'s was played on this date at Mannofield, in splendid weather. From the very first the game was of an exciting nature, for within the first two minutes McNeill got off with the ball near the School twenty-five line, and scored. The kick was unsuccessful. The F.P.'s then pressed very hard for some time, but the ball was gradually carried up the touch-

96

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

line, and the brilliant attack of the School forwards gave the F.P.'s defence many anxious moments. None of their attempts to score, however, were successful. At this point the F.P.'s three-quarters got away, and, after a brilliant run, Watson scored a try, which was converted. After some more very equal and hard play in midfield, half-time was called with the score 8—o in favour of the .F.P.'s. The second half was also very evenly contested, and not long after the kick-off J. Mackintosh scored. Leith made no mistake with the kick. Twice again did the F.P.'s get away in a rush, and their superior speed enabled them to score both times. The School, however, was very unfortunate in not equalising, for they were at least worth a draw. Thus the School received their first defeat of the season, and a record, which the School ought to be proud of, was broken..

Scores :—F.P.'s, 14 points (i goal 3 tries) ; School, 5 points (i goal).

The second match against Gordon's College was played at King's College grounds on i 1 th December, in very wet and disagreeable weather. Neither team had a full fifteen, and substitutes had to be found to play. The School kicked off against a strong wind, and at first Gordon's pressed.

They were soon driven back, and they never got away again.

Soon after this, J. Mackintosh scored an unconverted try. Half-time result :—School, 3 points (i try) ; Gordon's, o. In the second half the School forwards were all over Gordon's, and kept them completely in their own twentyfive.

At no time did Gordon's look dangerous, but the School scored twice, through G. Leith and A. Johnstone.

The latter was the result of a most excellent run by the three-quarters, and was the finest piece of play in the match.

All the XV. played well, and outclassed their opponents in every branch.

2nd XV. Matches.

•

The 2nd School opened their season on 30th October at the School grounds with a match against 2nd G.C.F.P.'s.

The School had a very light team, but played up very pluckily against a set of far heavier opponents. The scores were :-2nd G.C.F.P.'s, 5 points (I goal) ; 2nd School, o.

6th November, r6o9.—The znd School met 2nd Gordon's. at the School on this date. The School were easily victorious, indeed, the game was practically a succession of scores.

School Football Notes.

97

for the School. The scores at end of game were :—znd School, 23 points (i goal 6 tries) ; 2nd Gordon's, 4 points (I dropped goal). The scorers for the School were Johnstone (4 tries), Anderson, Wilson, Elmslie (i try each).

27th November, 19o9.—At the Stewart Park on this date the 2nd School met again the 2nd G.C.F.P.'s, who had on a very superior team. Up to half-time the School played well, and the score was only 3 points to none in favour of the F.P.'s. But in the second half the School play fell away very much, and when time was called the G.C.F.P.'s had 30 points, while the School had not begun to score. ;Menzies and Durno were the best of the School forwards, and Anderson the best of the backs.

4th December, 1909.—On this date the 2nd XV.'s of the School and Gordon's College met at King's. The teams were about equal, and a draw of 3 points each was a result which indicates justly the course of the play. Collie was the scorer for the School 11th December, 1909.-2nd School, 35. 2nd Gordon's o.

15th January, 1910.-3rd School, 16. 2nd Gordon's, 3.

3rd XV. Matches.

13th November, z909.-2nd Gordon's, 13.

3rd School, o.

Notes.

The School commenced the season with only two of last year's players to assist them, viz., D. M. W. Leith and J. Mackintosh, the former acting as Captain and the latter as Secretary. A very capable XV. has, however, been organised, and, if their play improves as greatly during the remainder of the season as it has done in the opening months, they stand a good chance of being even a better team than the School XV. of 1908-9. They may not have the same brilliant three-quarter line, but the team is better all round —the halves being distinctly good, and the forwards, as a whole, stronger than last year.

The Scottish Rugby Union have decided to send George Watson's College XV. to play the Combined Schools of

98

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

Aberdeen, at Aberdeen, and the match will likely be played about the end of February. The Aberdeen XV. should be quite as strong as last year, and the Grammar School XV. should be well represented. It is hoped that there will be a large attendance of our fellows at the match to stir up the Aberdeen XV. to reverse last year's defeat.

It is most appropriate, in closing these few remarks, to offer our congratulations to our Captain on the honour conferred on him and on the School by the Northern Rugby Union, in selecting him to play full back for the North v.

Heriotonians. It is a long time since a School boy was selected, the last occasion being in 1894, when Arthur J. Milne was chosen.

Criticism of the XV. At full back, Benton has played well : he has picked up the game rapidly, is a good tackler, but his kicking is sometimes weak.

At three-quarter, Leith has been a source of great strength: he has developed his attack, his tackling is as sound as ever, and his ability to place goals from any position is of great service. He, along with the others, would find it of immense advantage to learn to kick with both feet.

Mackintosh, last year's half, has greatly improved at threequarter : he uses his head well, and has the advantage of being very fast. Carroll, who played until he broke his arm at gymnastics (not at football), had the making of a good wing three-quarter, and is the fastest man there has been at the School for some time, but he should learn to use his. head more, and not trust to his speed entirely. Anderson and Johnstone, who are both keen, have been more than useful, and, playing along with Leith and Mackintosh, are sure to improve.

At half, Mackintosh in attack makes some grand openings, but is inclined to stick to the ball too long. He should get over this fault, and also the bad fault of " funkirig" to charge down a kick. Stewart is very sound in defence : he should back up Mackintosh when he breaks through, and try to be always at the spot for the pass. The three-quarters might take this hint also.

The forwards, led by Macrae and Elmslie, have come on tremendously--the brothers Spark, Mackenzie, Booth, and Leith having greatly improved—and the line will be " hot stuff " by the end of the season. Of course, they have one or

School Football Notes.

k

99'

two faults, such as not breaking up quickly enough and getting in amongst the opponents' backs when the ball goes out, not getting their heads low enough in the scrum, and not picking up the ball often enough and indulging in short and sharp passes amongst themselves instead of dribbling. Worst of all, several of the team have in the last few games developed a tendency to tackle high: this fault must be remedied at once. Never, never, never tackle high ; for, if you do, any opponent of any experience can afford to laugh at you—Mackenzie and the brothers Spark, in particular; please note!

_F.P. Rugby Football Club.

RESULTS OF IST XV. MATCHES. 1909. .

Oct. 9—v. Queen's Cross, at Mannofield . . . „ 16—v. Panmure, at Dundee . . „ 23—v. 'Shire, at Mannofield . . . .

Nov. 6—v. 'Varsity, at King's . . „ 27—v. Queen's Cross, at Duthie Park . . .

Dec. 4—v. 'Varsity, at King's . „ 25—v. "Crocks and Exiles," at Mannofield 1910. do.

Jan. 1—v. Combined Schools, do.

3—v. Greenock Wanderers „

t

I

For. Against. o 8 8 I1 18 5 8 8 3 5 0 9 13 9 49 8

0 3

RESULTS OF 2ND XV. MATCHES. For. Against..

1909.

8 o Oct. 9—v. Gordon's College, at Mannofield . .

6 .

6 „ 16—v. School, at Mannofield . . 19 0 . „ 23—v. 2nd 'Shire, at Rosewell .

3 8 „ 30—v. 2nd Queen's Cross, at Duthie Park 6 Nov. 6—v. Gordon's Coll. F.P.'s, at Mannofield 3 0 . „ 13—v. 'Varsity "A," at Duthie Park 3 3 0 „ 27—v. Gordon's College, at Mannofield . .

Dec. 4—v. School, at Mannofield .

5 • 14

too

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

The Former Pupils' Club.

Notes.

The attention of members is specially directed to the remarks made at the commencement of Sheet III. of the " Roll of Old Boys" Supplement.

The Membership. . A large increase in the membership has taken place since the last Magazine was published, and so great was the demand for the number, both at the School and amongst the members of the Club, that, in spite of a large increase in the quantity printed, the Secretary, much to his regret, has been unable to supply copies to all those who have recently joined the Club. Old Boys of even a few years' standing will, we imagine, be very surprised, not to say bewildered, when we state that, although 1,20O Magazines were printed, there was not one left at the end of six weeks. In this connection it may be mentioned that the Executive of the Club has resolved to send a copy of the Magazine, along with a leaflet giving information about the Club, to all Old Boys discovered by means of the Register Scheme.

Subscriptions.

The Treasurer informs us that there are a considerable number of country members who have not yet paid their subscriptions for the current year. , We are certain that we have only to remind those members that their subscriptions are past due, to ensure that these are sent to the Treasurer without delay, and without causing him trouble that should really be unnecessary. We would also remind country and foreign members that subscriptions may be paid for a few years in advance, a plan which is beneficial both to such members and to the Treasurer. The Secretary would be greatly obliged if members would notify him of any change in their address, as recently the Magazines of several members who have paid their subscriptions have been returned.

Although most of these members have been traced, it has taken some time to do so.

Orchestral Section.

As a result of the new arrangement whereby a professional conductor and a professional leader were secured, the Orchestral Section has been carrying on its work with increased vigour. The average attendance, we understand,

i

The Former Pupils' Club Notes.

ioi

has been over 20, and the Section is to hold its Annual Concert in the School Hall on Friday,4th March. A few of the members of the Dramatic Section have very kindly offered to contribute, as an item of the programme, a representation of Mr. W. W. Jacobs' delightful little play, " The Bo'sun's Mate," and the Orchestra, which will also have the assistance of several vocalists, will, we have no doubt, provide a splendid evening's entertainment. It is well to add that the price of admission is only the sum of Is., and that all present pupils will be admitted at half-price.

Mr. Clemens, the conductor, tells us that there has been a very great improvement in the work done by the members, and no doubt by the date of the Concert they will be able to give a good account of themselves. We trust that there will be a large audience at the Concert to encourage the Committee, who, along with the Old Boy members of the Orchestra, have guaranteed the expenses for this year. We are glad to hear that several of the present School boys The encouragement of have been attending regularly. orchestral music amongst the present pupils is a most deserving object, and any present pupil who cares to attend will be made very welcome.

The London Section.

A very successful Smoking Concert was held in the Central Restaurant on Saturday, 23rd October, igo9—Mr. A James Cruickshank Smith, B.Sc., being in the chair. varied programme of vocal and instrumental music was presented, and during the evening the subject of popularising this section of the Club was discussed. It was decided that some time after the Annual Dinner a Cinderella Dance would be held, and Mr. William Webster, a life member of the Club, very kindly undertook to defray any financial deficit which might be incurred in connection therewith.

The Annual Meeting will be held in the Waldorf Hotel on Tuesday, 8th February, at 7 p.m., and will be followed, at 7.30, by the Annual Dinner, at which Sir William Watson Cheyne has kindly consented to preside. Tickets, price 6s., for members and friends, may be had of the Secretary, Mr. T. J. Wilson, C.A., 37 Suffolk House, Cannon Street, E.C., and those wishing to be present are requested to apply at once, in order to facilitate the final arrangements.

The Cinderella Dance has been fixed for Saturday, 5th March, and notices will be issued to members in due course.

i

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

The membership of the section now exceeds too, and the Secretary will be glad to receive the name of any Old Boy resident in London who is not yet a member. It may be as well to mention that the London members receive copies of the Magazine as it is issued.

Club Evenings.

The Committee in charge of these " evenings " made excellent arrangements for the meetings in the Grand Hotel, but, unfortunately, the turnout of members has been rather disappointing. The Committee recognises that not only those who wish a game of cards should be catered for, and is always willing to receive suggestions. It is hoped there will be a larger turnout for the remaining evenings of the winter. Members may be reminded that the " evenings" are held in the Grand Hotel on Tuesdays, at 7.30 p.m.

The Committee is greatly indebted to Mr. Ronald A/Neill for the excellent lecture on " The Social Life of the Ancient Celt .' which he gave on 9th November. There was a large attendance, and after the lecture, which was very much enjoyed by all present, a short musical programme was submitted. The Committee desires to draw the attention of the members to the lecture. to be given on 8th February by Mr. A. A. Longden, on " The National Yellowstone Park, U.S.A." The lecture, which will be illustrated with limelight views, is to be given in the Grand Hotel, at 7.45 p.m., and will be followed by a short musical programme. The Committee trusts there will be a large audience to welcome Mr. Longden, who will, no doubt, have something very interesting to tell the members.

The Committee has arranged for a Bridge Match with the Innocents' Club on Tuesday, t5th February, and any members desirous of taking part are requested to inform the Secretary of the F.P. Club or the Secretary of the Club Evenings Committee.

The Football Club Cinderella.

The Football Club Committee has arranged for the Annual Cinderella to be held in the Palace Hotel on Friday, nth February, at 8 p.m. The Executive of the Former Pupils' Club has arranged that all members of the Club are entitled to attend the Dance, and for this reason the Annual

•

4 11,

I •

,

MoMILLAN7S FOR EVERYTHING OF THE

NEWEST. . . BIG STOCK . .

SKATES,

ROLLER

2%- to 12 6 Per Pair.

THE PLACE

FOR GIFT GOODS.

McMILLAN7S7 UNION BRIDGE, ABERDEEN.

epiPS IN

IRISH AND SCOTCH HOME-SPUN TWEED. Latest Shapes by Leading London Makers.

W. DAVIDSON & SON, TAILORS, Sole Makers of "Glen" Sporting Cape,

123 UNION STREET, Aberdeen.

TELEPHONE 579.

ESTABLISHED 1843.

SPECIALTY:

FINEST GIANT-FLOWERED CARDEN SEEDS.

SWEET PEAS. PRIZES.

MANY

AWARDED

Gardening Guide Free on request.

M. H. SINCLAIR, Telephone 1121 Central.

SEED, BULB, AND PLANT MERCHANT,

156a UNION STREET, ABERDEEN.

Famous

HATS All One Price, ••

3/9.

Best Value under the Sun.

,NN

-W

BOOTS All One Price,

10/6.

Guinea Styles for Half-a-Guinea. )

P21 Union St. & 119 George St., 713ER1DEEN.

The Former Pupils' Club Noses.

N

•

'IP

1.03

Club Cinderella has been omitted from the programme this year, and if the present arrangement is successful it will be omitted in future years. The Football Club knows how to manage a Dance, and all members of the general Club who desire to be present should inform Mr. A. M. Johnston, 71 Fountainhall Road, or the Honorary Secretary of the Club. No formal circulars are sent out in connection with this function, and the price of tickets is :—Double, ios. 6d. „ single 6s. 6d. ; extra lady, 4s.

Various Social Events.

The Annual Dinner was held on Saturday, 3oth October, in the Grand Hotel. Professor William L. Davidson, LL.D., President of the Club, occupied the chair, and was supported on the right by Lord Provost Wilson, Mr. C. J. Davidson, Mr. E. W. Watt, and Mr. H. E. Smith •' and on the left by Mr. H. F. Morland Simpson, Mr. A. G. Nicol Smith, and Dr. Levack. Between thirty and forty other members were present. The speakers in connection with the toast list were the Chairman, Mr. Alex. Taylor, Major W. B. G. Minto, Mr. E. W. Watt, Lord Provost Wilson, Mr. H. E. Smith, Mr. Morland Simpson, and Mr. Nicol Smith.

The gathering was, as usual, a very successful one in every way. Thanks are due to the vocal quartette and the Old Boys who contributed lightning sketches and other items to the programme, and thus greatly increased the enjoyment of the evening.

The Dramatic Section gave performances of " Jane " in the School Hall on i6th, i7th, and i8th December, 1909, and, as not only the members of the Club, but the public at large know that the work of the Section is of a high standard, there were large audiences. The success attained by the members in their production of " Jane "—a play in which the parts are more difficult than in any that has hitherto been attempted—was phenomenal, and the audiences highly appreciated the splendid' acting. The Section desires to thank the ladies who so kindly assisted on this occasion, and, in addition, the members are very deeply indebted to their enthusiastic Secretary, Mr. J. H. N. Craigen, who personally arranged about the scenery and the fittingup of the stage. As a result of the performances, a handsome donation has been given to the Register Scheme Fund.

The Annual Ball was held in the Music Hall Buildings. on 27th December, 1909, and was, as in previous years,.

104

Aberdeen Grammar School Magazine.

•

very well attended. The Committee made excellent arrangements, and the Ball was most enjoyable in every way.

We were very glad to see so many of our non-resident members present, and it was a hqppy thought that led the Committee in 1908 to fix the date of the Ball for Christmas-time.

The Register Fund.

Amount already acknowledged Dr. W. F. Croll . . .

James Collie, Esq. . . .

Dramatic Section—first donation

. . .

L4 12 O O 5 O o io 6 20

O

O

7

6

•

•

Former Pupils' Club Notices.

The Honorary Secretary and Treasurer of the Club is fames W. Milne, C.A., 46A Union Street.

The Honorary Secretary of the Dramatic Section is J. H. N. Craigen, 4o Carden Place.

The Honorary Secretary of the Rugby Football Club is A. M. Johnston, 71 Fountainhall Road, and all Former Pupils wishing to play should communicate with him.

The Honorary Secretary of the Club Evenings Cornmittee is Alex. Taylor, 12 Bright Street.

The Honorary Secretary of the Orchestral Section is James C. Lyon, 10 Carden Place.

Ties, hatbands, scarves, etc., of the Club colours may be obtained from R. K. Smith, 113-119 Union Street, and W. J. Milne, 251 Union Street, on presentation of the membership card.

Articles, letters, notes, etc., intended for publication in the Magazine should be sent to the Hon. Secretary of the

0

Watt & Milne,

I(igll-class Dressmakers, Costumiers,

I72

I

)rraqt/emczkers,

Union Street,

furriers, 0c cries'

Aberdeen.

Outfitters.

Dinners,

OF ALL KINDS CATERED FOR IN ROOMS OR AT YOUR OWN HOMES.

Dances, and Parties

NO WORK OR WORRY TO HOSTESS. Menus, Terms, Engagements, from Manager, 173 Union Street APPOINTMENTS WEDDING

CAKES

A

ON

I—II176-E_

SPECIALTY,

Unsurpassed for Quality.

Ka

N

Vv7x v.,

BAKERY AND SALE

SHOP,

5 and 7 HOLBURN STREET.

%cboot efficia19.

SESSION

••

1

1909-10.

Sports Committee.

The RECTOR. President, JAMES DAVIDSON, Esq. Secretary, Hon. A. MILNE. D. M. W. LEITH. A. V. W. CANTLAY. M. H. MACKIE, Esq. T. 0. ROBSON. A. JOHNSTONE. W. R. TENNANT. J. MACKINTOSH. J. C. KNOX, Esq. •

Football.

-

Captain, Secretary.

Captain, Vice-Captain, Secretary, Hon. Treasurer,

J. L. BOOTH. J. S. COLLIE.

D. M. W. LEITH. J. MACKINTOSH.

•

Swimming Club.

J. MACKINTOSH. A. F. HYSLOP. D. M. W. LEITH. M. H. MACKIE, Esq. Committee.

A. JOHNSTONE. i V. C. J. MACRAE. S. C. STILL. •

Debating Society.

A. F. HYSLOP. J. L. BOOTH. 1 . _ Vice-Presidents, A. JOHNSTONE. S. C. STILL. Treasurer, Secretary and Committee.

W. C. MACKINNON. J. S. B. FORBES. I T. 0. Rossox.

I J. MACKINTOSH. W. R. TENNANT.

President,

-

Reference,

•

Library.

A. MILNE. Lending— D. M. M. FRASER. A. F. HYSLOP.

Editor-in-Chief, Literary Editor, Editorfor Sport, Business Iliana4rer,

J. L IRVINE. S. C. STILL. W. R. TENNANT. •

Magazine.

•

-

W. R. TENNANT. A. F. HYSLOP. J. L. BOOTH. S. C. STILL.

1

BREAKFASTS, "- c-D--

e o'i

.

1 ,co ,p1-e% 0- ,') zip „ e ,Se

DINNERS, *

TEAS, SUPPERS.

T CPlzsietC> OP' For Weddings nr‘,S . SNP and "At Homes" O''‘. -

)

e

"Replete with every Comfort."

IT CAN'T BE BEAT.

CHAS. DAVIE, Proprietor.

Telephone 2428.

GOOD PIANOS 8 ORGANS At Reasonable Prices, ON HIRE

OR HIRE

PURCHASE,

(t)

IMP

Instruments

Instruments

Exchanged.

Exchanged.

-

/

P1OO,O front ,

LOS,

. .1

yOO(1

pep month.

.1 flood Oryitil front 5.s.

Pianos Tuned to Order or by Yearly Contract.

P. LARG & CO., 1 SKENE TERRACE.

Telephone 994

WEST=END TAILORING, MODERATE

Dress Suit.-Silk

Facings, 4

PRICES.

Guineas.

Lined Silk throughout, 5 Guineas.

SMART OVERCOATS, Newest Materials, Large Selection, from 50/-.

4

Every Garment is made under the expert supervision of Mr. Watson, formerly principal Cutter with R. K. Smith.

- 4/

SHIRTS, GLOVES, TIES, UNDERWEAR, ETC.

WATSON & McGILCHRIST %ablest ant) Oent.'s tailors flub Outfitters,

347 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. TELEPHONE 17X2.

A. M. SUTHERLAND, LADIES' AND GENTLEMEN'S HAIRDRESSER, 11

HQLBURN STR *

LARGE STAFF OF FIRST=CLASS ASSISTANTS.

(

.

'4 4 Family Portraits.

Enlarged Partraits.

Messrs. MORGAN,

At Home Portraiture. ,

Portrait Photographers,

Miniatures on Ivory.

393 UNION STREET.

Class and Athletic Groups.

Telephone No. 603.

Framemaking, etc. :

JAMES D. DUNCAN, CHEMIST,

231 UNION STREET. 231 High-class Dispensing. Purest Drugs. Most Moderate Charges.

Patent Mediciiies. etc., Store Prices.

Telephone 311.

FORREST & RAFFAN, 82 UNION

STREET,

Telephone 25Y3. personal superFOR Up-to-date Tailoring at Popular Prices. Conducted under is guaranteed Workmanship vision. Perfect Fit with Comfort in Wear and Best A trial Order is asked from those who have not yet favoured us.

82 UNION STREET. .S.B.—Agents for the celebrated " AERTEX" Cellular Shirts and Underwear, at Keenest Prices.

NECKWEAR I ! I CAPS!!

HATS! WATERPROOF GOATS !

UMBRELLAS !

A Straight Talk on Eyesight. I show that three person's out of ever y four need to wear Glasses. Therefore the chances STATISTICS are 3 to 1 that YOU need to do so, without

knowing it. If you wait till your eyes pain you, you will probably have to wear Glasses permanently.

Therefore, let me test your eyes now.

For many years I have devoted myself exclusively to the study of optical science, during which time I have successfully treated thousands of cases, and I hold the diploma of the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, which is only given to those who prove their skill. These are facts which form conclusive proof of my ability, so pay a visit to my testing-room without delay.

Optician G. H. Swapp, Sight-Testing and Spectacle Maker,

33 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. THE ALL

FOUNTAINHEAD

FRESH

FOR

FROM ELLON DAILY.

Fine Buchan Butter, Fresh Farm Eggs, fine home=made Cheese, Fowls, Chickens, Rabbits, Ducklings, jams (all own make), honey (in Supers, 1 lb. and 2 lb.), honey (in Nice Tumblers).

MILNE, ELLON STALL, NEW

MARKET.

TELEPHONE No. 1891.

ARCHIBALD MIELLAR, fannlp Grocer and Wine merchant,

456

UNION STREET, 7NBEFWEEN. *

Excellent Value given in 2'- Tea. English Bottled Fruits, in globe-shaped bottles, 1/- each.

Glass Shapes, Chicken, Ham and Tongue, etc., etc., 1 6 each.

Glasses Potted Grouse, 6d. each.

Glasses Potted Wild Duck, 6d. each.

White's Crystal Jellies, per pint packet, 3,1,d. each.

Medicinal Wines—Yibrona, Hall's, Winoarnis, Glenuenning's.

GREAT SUCCESS

0,

My Little Broad-Backed

COLLAR STUDS, for Fastening Collar at Back of Shirt Neckband.

RECOMMENDED for their

STRENGTH AND SIMPLICITY. ( PRICE

4I

ONE

--

PENNY.

W. J. MILNE, Men's Hatter

and Haberdasher,

251 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. Telephone 1293.

The Royal Nol•ther i ,

o,ite

TELEPHONE No. 467.

M'COMBIE'S CYCLE DEPOT, 344 KING STREET,

ABERDEEN.

TO CYCLISTS. New Cycles built to Order.

Old Cycles exchanged for more up - to - date Machines.

Old Cycles thoroughly overhauled, re-enamelled, plated, and done up in first-class style.

All kinds of repairs promptly executed.

A Large Assortment of Tyres and Accessories always on hand.

All Orders entrusted to my care shall have my personal attention, and the work carried out with the utmost dispatch.

Telephone Orders promptly attended to and sent for if required.

CHARGES MODERATE AND WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED.

ALEXANDER

FRASER,

Practical litlatcbmaker &Rweller. c PEC1AL attention given to Repairing of Watches and Clocks, Gilding and Replating of all Articles of Jewellery and Silver Ware.

Large and Varied Stock of Watches, Clocks, and Jewellery of every description.

ALEXANDER

FRASER,

19 T.T1-'1= H ~LK7.1~ KG-AT H I, ABERDEEN.

Telephone No. 16Y2.

DAVID WYLLIE & SON (Established 1815),

- Fountain pen Emporium," 247 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. EVERYONE WRITES--more or less : hardly a day passes withou frequent occasions for it. Now, to write with any degree of comfort and rapidity, one wants a pen thoroughly suitable and always reliable.

The "SWAN" Fountain Pen combines all the advantages of the perfected pen, with a reservoir of ink sufficient to write continuously for hours. Prices 10/6 and 16/6. Satisfaction guaranteed. Repairs speedily executed. Ink and other accessories. Fountain Pens by other makers also stocked. Prices x/- upwards.

Telephone No. 402.

Specialities :— Engagement Rings by First-class Makers.

Waltham Watches the World's Best Timekeepers, in Gold, Silver, and Gold-filled Cases.

1Repairs Watch, Clock, and Jewellery repairs receive personal and prompt attention.

WILLIAM GORDON, Watchmaker arty jeweller, 7 Rose Street ( 2,1,idiodiolo;triereo— ),, Aberdeen.

Telephone 1945.

DO

YOU

KNOW

THAT

THOMSON makes Delicious CARAMELS At 2d. per Quarter.

Fresh daily.

To be had only at

THOMSON'S TOFFY SHOP, 402 UNION STREET (sgicfgrst.), ABERDEEN.

"THE DIVAN," lbigb.class tobaccos, Cigars, Cigarettes, Pipes, etc.,

504 UNION STREET, Aberdeen.

W. Y. MACKAY, PROPRIETOR. Note. —The Finest BILLIARD SALOON in the North, equipped with best Tables by Messrs. Burroughes & Watts, Ltd. ( k

TELEPHONE 989.

Established over Half a Century.

TRAVELLING REQUISITES, GLADSTONE BAGS, I2S. and upwards.

TRAVELLING TRUNKS, los to 3os.

Solid Leather PORTMANTEAUX. SCHOOL BAG BOOK STRAPS.

mune SELECTION.

REPAIRS neatly executed by practical workmen on the premises.

TRUNK, AND GAUL & WILSON, SADDLERY, PORTMANTEAU MANUFACTURERS,

BON-ACCORD STREET, ABERDEEN.

i

ABERDEEN

r,

GRAMMAR SCHOOL.

(Founded previous to 1256.)

Rector—H. F. MORLAND SIMPSON, M.A. (Cantab.), F.S.A.Scot.

The School, which is one of the Higher Class Public Schools of Scotland, provides for Boys a complete course of study—Elementary and Secondary, Classical and Modern. The Lower School receives Boys of the Infant stage and upwards.

The School contains excellent Laboratories—Chemical and Physical, Art Room, Workshop, Botanical Garden Gymnasium, Library, and Reading Room.

The situation of the School is open and healthy, within ten minutes of the Railway Station.

There is a Cricket Field, and there are separate Playgrounds for the various departments.

Boarders are received by several of the Masters.

Information as to Fees, Scholarships, etc., is given in the School Prospectus, which may be had free on application to the CLERK of the SCHOOL BOARD, 22 Union Terrace, or to the RECTOR.

—

ABERDEEN HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS. Head Master—JOHN M`BAIN, M.A. Lady Superintendent—Miss LUCY L. WARD, B.A. (Lond.)

The School, which is one of the Higher Class Public Schools of Scotland, is organised in Three Departments—a Junior, an Intermediate, and a Secondary—the last combining Modern and University Sections. The Art and Music Departments are under highly qualified Masters and Governesses. Pupils are received from the age of Five Years. The recent additions, consisting of an elegant Hall, Cookery and Laundry Rooms, and a Suite of Laboratories of the most approved description for the teaching of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, make the School one of the best equipped in the country. A Library and Reading Room and Luncheon Rooms are provided.

The School occupies a spacious site in the West End of the City, within twelve minutes of the Railway Station.

The Lady Superintendent can arrange for the Boarding of Pupils from a distance.

Information as to Fees, Scholarships, etc., is given in the School Prospectus, which may be had free on application to the CLERK of the SCHOOL BOARD, 22 Union Terrace, or to the HEAD MASTER.

C

PiANOFORTES, ETC. Upright and Horizontal Grand Pianos, by excellent makers, from £15 to £130 ; also Second-hand Pianos. Bargains may be had on 3 years' Instalment System.

Kimball Organs, Pauorma, Cramond and Ruddiman Violins, also Violas, 'Cellos, all of High-class make and cheap. De Meglio and other Mandolins, Guitars, Banjos, Cornets. Violin Repairs, Strings, Bows, Bridges. Pianos Tuned, Exchanged, and Repaired.

AGENT for Skidmore's Bent Steel Fire-procf Safes, and Hobbs & Co.'s Fire- and Burglarproof Steel Safes, Doors, and Locks; Makers to the King, and Bank of England, etc.

JOHN G. MORISON, 48 Netherkirkgate.

TRLEPHONE 1620, ABERDEEN.

TELEPFIONE 67, ERASER/B:17GB.

GEORGE JOHNSTON, FLORIST, FRUITERER, AND . . . CONFECTIONER, . .

UNION STREET, ABERDEEN.

473

Illareatbs.

Crosses.

Cboice ffruit.

%alabs.

Branches-4 Broad Street, Fraserburgh, and 55 Barclay Street, Stonehaven.

FRED HARDIE, photographic artist, IA16

UNION ST., ABERDEEN,

For every style of In- and Out-door Group, Composite Groups, and General Portraiture, etc., Teter/10,i,, 851.

At Popular Prices.

PIANOFORTES. STEINWAY. STEINWAY, STEINWAY. BECHSTEIN, BECHSTEIN. BECHSTEIN. BRINSMEAD " ANGELUS," "Piano and Piano Player combined."

Sole Importers for Scotland—

PATERSON & SONS, Music Sellers, 116 UNION STREET. ABERDEEN.

"BE PREPARED." Anything and

Scouts'

Everything

\

the Boy Scout i

Uniform

requires.

-

and

I

Complete List on

Equipment.

Application.

4eif 7(-1 *-4.j4 ‘5,e_es”,,;(c9.0; 115 to 119 Union St.,Aberaecn.

Telephone No. 677.

Telegrams--" Clothing, Aberdeen."

New St les in Autum n

and Miter Footwear,

Ladles' and Gent.'s BOOTS, SHOES, and SUPPERS fee Evening Wear, in all the latest Leathers and Colours, Our Special Footform Boote and Shoes

for Ladles and Ciente., in Tan and Black Leather, are Commendable for Easy Wear and Perfect Fitting.

The " SIGNORA" Boot in Black and Brown Glace, or Box Calf Leather. To know Comfort is to Wear them.

Men's Strong WATERPROOF BOOTS for winter and rough wear. Suitable for Farmers, Gamekeepers, Golfers, Fishers, and Workmen in genera., Boys' and Girls' Strong SCHOOL BOOTS—all prices Large variety of dependable Boots and Shoes for Misses and Children, in Brown and Black.

• t i {

1, ,'

VOTE.—Good Work, Prompt Service in Repairing Boots and Shoee either leith Leather, Rubber, or Gialci• percha.

See Windows.

JOHN A. DUNN, globe soot ant) %We Marebouse, 26 & 175 UNION BT., ABERDEEN. Telephone M.

, I