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CONTENTS. SCHOOL NOTES -

NOTES ABOUT OLD BOYS BAZAAR

JAMES MOIR

THE WEATHER -

THE I.C.S. EXAMS.

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SANDHURST EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS OF F.P.'s

THE RUGBY XV.

FOOTBALL

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EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTE-BOOK OF THE LITERARY CLUB AND DEBATING SOCIETY THE LIBRARY

THE SWIMMING CLUB

THE CYCLING CLUB -

CRICKET SEASON, 1899

OUR PRIZE COMPETITIONS

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS -

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JAMES MOIR, Litt. D., LL.D.

THE

Orammar ,Scf?oof tiTaga3inc. Vol. IV.

ANUARY, 1900.

No. 1. _ -

SCHOOL NOTES. THERE is an old saw which says something about " Well begun is half done " ; but the difficulty with us is not how to begin well, but how to begin at all. "It is with trembling hand that we take up," &c., which is the stock formula, has been sternly forbidden by a good authority; and " It is with mingled feelings of pleasure and pain " is even worse. Knowing, however, that we must begin somehow, and at once, we commence by wishing all our readers —both present and future—a " Happy New Year, and many of 'em." •

This year our Magazine enters upon its fourth volume, and we have done our best to make it attractive. Now, it only remains for our readers to increase, to make the Magazine really flourish; so come in your hundreds and support the only School Chronicle. No words of ours are needed to cause Dr. Moir to be remembered in the School, or to ensure his name being cherished by all who knew him here. His many kindly acts, and his open, manly heart, have done more for this than any words of ours or of anyone else could ever do. It has been our privilege to be taught by him for several years, and we never knew a Master whom his class respected or appreciated more; nor do. we feel that it is too much to say that by none were the sterling qualities of Dr. Moir more thoroughly appreciated than by his colleagues, and we are sure that they will join with the School in regretting his retirement, after eighteen years of hard, yet fruitful, labour. The names of Melvin and Moir will go down to posterity as those of the two greatest scholars that have ever filled the Rectorial chair. Dr. Moir was indeed, as he himself used quaintly to put it, our " guide, philosopher, and friend." 1

The Grammar School Magazine.

We have also to regret the departure of our energetic Football Captain—H. J. Butchart. As Captain of our 1st XV., as Vice-President of the Literary and Debating Society, and as Sporting Editor of the Magazine, he discharged all his duties with an enthusiasm which others would do well to imitate. His place as Captain of the " footer" team and on the staff of the Magazine has been taken by T. B. Robertson, who is taking great pains with both, and who, we hope, will pilot our team through a most successful season. D. E. Rae has succeeded T. B. Robertson as Secretary, and promises to fill the office to the satisfaction of all concerned. Two new Masters have been appointed to fill the vacancies on our staff, namely—Mr. Spiers, M.A., B.Sc., and Mr. Ritchie, M.A. We give them. a hearty welcome, and hope that their stay with us will be a long and happy one. The School Clubs generally seem to be better supported this year than last, but not by any means as well as they ought to be ; and, in view of this, we ought to be contented with the Clubs we have, and not talk of forming more. We have heard rumours of a Camera Club, a Boating Club, a Tennis Club, a Hockey Club, and a few more. When the present ones are better supported, we can think of these, but as yet the energies of the School ought to he confined to the Clubs that now exist. The Literary and Debating Society has, it is true, a record number of members, but hardly any of the VII.—the class that ought to be the backbone of the Society—condescend to honour it with their presence. What's that? Not worth going to? If not, who is to blame, unless those who ought to go and don't, or rather won't? The number of members in the Library is perfectly disgraceful. The proportion of those eligible for members to those who have joined is about ten to one ; and this state of things cannot be said to encourage those who have the management of the Library to improve it. Several members of the Committee are not members of the Library, and this was commented on not very long ago in the public press. Obviously this Committee cannot superintend the affairs of an. institution with which several of its members have no actual connection. Another matter for regret in connection with the Library is the kind of literature that is chosen. Scott, Dickens, Thackeray, and others like them, are allowed to repose peacefully on. their shelves, while Guy Boothby and

School .Notes.

Rudyard Kipling are asked for almost every day. Gordon Stables is an Old Boy, but that does not make anyone read his books. In a certain journal—no longer existing—we were exhorted to read Guy Boothby, but, with all respect to that talented gentleman, it would be much more to the point if we read more books like " The Talisman," " The Old Curiosity Shop," and "Vanity Fair," or " Esmond." A good story does not necessarily constitute a sensational one, nor a sensational story a good one.

Classical VII. .

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Lower IV. III. II. . Janitor . . Found in School Grounds and unclaimed

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The Grammar School Magazine. NOTES ABOUT OLD BOYS.

IT is with deep regret that we announce the death of William Robertson, who left School only a few months ago. His death, which was almost startling in its suddenness, was due to congestion of the lungs. While at School William Robertson endeared himself to all who knew him by his bright, genial manner, and by his loving nature. While painstaking in his School studies, he devoted much time to music, with the result that while still at School, at the age of seventeen, he was appointed organist and choirmaster in the Newmachar Free Church. To his relatives we give our sincere sympathy in their bereavement.

In the list of New-Year Honours our School stands conspicuous. C.B.—The Queen has been pleased to approve of the following appointments to the most honourable Order of the Bath :— Colonel J. Leslie Macdonald, R.E. Lieutenant-Colonel A. M`Hardy, R.E. C.M.G. (Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George) : — Dr. A. Mackinnon, principal Transport Officer for Uganda. Dr. Patrick Manson, medical adviser to the Colonial Office. While the eyes of all the world are turned towards South Africa, we of the Aberdeen Grammar School are not behind in our interest there. Many of our sons are engaged in active service at the front—at Modder River, with Bethune's Horse, in hospital service, and some, alas ! have been coramandoed by the Boers. One, at least, of our Old Boys is shut up in Mafeking. We publish in another column a letter from one of ours now at Lourenzo Marques, and another scribbled in pencil from the trenches at the Modder. Our School is represented not only among the officers, noncoms., and privates, but also among the newspaper correspondents. F. W. Rennet is war correspondent for the famous American news agency—Lafian. Professor Ogston, Surgeon-in-Ordinary to Her Majesty in Scotland, and one of the leading authorities in the country on gunshot wounds, is at the front. His work in the late Egyptian War was highly praised.

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Notes about Old Boys.

H. F. Lyall Grant, who is Instructor of Musketry at the Mauritius, is hungering for active service, especially as he declares he is almost in sight of Delagoa Bay. •

Lieutenant-Colonel Johnston of Newton Dee has been appointed to the important post of Assistant-Director of the Army Medical Service, War Office. He has seen much service, and has been frequently mentioned in despatches. All Grammarians will remember how another distinguished Old Boy—Sir James MacGrigor, Bart., whose portrait adorns our Hall—was the Director-General of the Medical Service in Wellington's campaigns. Sir James Reid, Bart., Physician-in-Ordinary to the Queen, whose marriage to the Hon. Susan Baring was one of the events of the London season, has received from His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Germany the Royal Prussian Order of the Crown. This is the second distinction Sir James has received from the Emperor William, for he is already decorated with the Order of the Red Eagle of Germany. He was a patron of the F.P. Bazaar. Mr. John Torry, Solicitor, Edinburgh, died last month. He held the responsible position of Clerk to the Leith Dock Commissioners. According to the Scots Law Times, it was owing to his foresight as draftsman of the Leith Dock Acts of 1875, 1892, 1899, that trade has been so largely developed at the Leith Docks. We have to announce the death of Mr. George WilliamHe was very well son, late of Shempston, near Elgin. known all through the North of Scotland as a prominent agriculturist. All his six sons are Old Boys. Mr. Thomas Craig, tobacco manufacturer, Aberdeen, has also died. W. It. Buttenshaw, M.A., B.Sc., has been appointed Lecturer in Agriculture to the Government of Jamaica. The appointment was made by the Colonial Secretary, on the recommendation of Sir W. Thiselton-Dyer, Director of Kew. Thomas M. Watt has been appointed Assistant to the Professor of Logic, Dr. Davidson—himself an Old. Boy. He has just now carried off the Fullerton Scholarship in Philosophy. James Strachan has won the Fullerton Scholarship in Mathematics. Well done, Grammar School !

The Grammar School Magazine.

We have made rather an interesting discovery lately, although it is not one to boast of. It seems that the notorious Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, who was beheaded for his share in the Forty-Five, was an Old Boy. Our authority for the statement is a reprint from an old pamphlet published in 1767. Alistair Keith, who left School four years ago, is now in the Klondyke district. The last we heard about him was that he was engaged in bringing down £20,000 in gold to Dawson City. We forget how many loaded revolvers he had by him night and day during his long journey.

The Rev. John Chalmers, LL.D., of the London Missionary Society, died last month. He had a long and distinguished career in China. He has published works on Chinese, on religious and general subjects, and was recently engaged in revising the Chinese version of the Scriptures. We have lately come into possession of a little book compiled by two eminent Old Boys—the late John Hill Burton, D.C.L., Historiographer-Royal for Scotland, and the late Rev. Dr. Whyte, minister of Methlick. It contains the names of every boy at the Grammar School in the year 1822. The names of Dr. Burton and Dr. Whyte are there, but we also read the names of Arthur Farquhar and John Davidson. Can these be the names of our only Admiral and of the Rev. John Davidson, schoolmaster emeritus of Ellon? The little pamphlet is of great interest, and is to be added to our School Museum.

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T. C. Wilsone has got his commission in the Navy. Hector Edmond has taken a distinguished place in the examination for entrance to Woolwich.

OUR BAZAAR. WE do not remember the time when our School Hall has worn so festive an appearance as it did on the morning of December 16th. It seemed as if some magician's wand had been brought into use, so complete was the transformation. From the chaos of Friday was evolved the Saturday's cosmos. Mr. Samuel Pope, Junior, was the magician ; his

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Our Bazaar.,

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attendant sprites were his Committee. At twelve o'clock on Saturday everything was quite ready for the opening ceremony to begin. In spite of torrents of rain which fell intermittently all day, a considerable crowd had gathered for the opening ceremony. The School turned out particularly well. But where were all the parents? They apologised with various excuses. Some were kept back by the weather, others did not approve of football bazaars, and so on. The result was that our bazaar was attended by the younger members of families as a rule. Our hale and hearty veteran, our oldest boy, Admiral Sir Arthur Farquhar, K.C.B., of whom we are so proud, had come direct from London specially to preside at our bazaar, and right well did he perform his duty of introducing the Honourable Mrs. Pirie. That lady, whose clear and distinct enunciation was heard in the farthest corner of the hall, commended the object of our bazaar in a capital speech, which was loudly cheered. She then presented the prizes won at the recent School sports, and a hearty vote of thanks proposed by the Rector, and seconded by Mr. James A. Butchart, was enthusiastically passed. A pretty little ceremony followed, for the very young son of our Rector presented Mrs. Pixie with a lovely basket of chrysanthemums. Mr. D. V. Pirie, I.P.; on behalf of his wife, thanked the audience in a speech of rousing eloquence, which, in the opinion of a pressman present, he has never surpassed. Sales then proceeded briskly. During the afternoon and early part of the evening the attendance was rather meagre, but as the evening went on the hall was packed. We wonder how many hundredweights of toffee were consumed ? It was amusing to see how packet after packet of it disappeared. We hear that nasty brown powders concealed in jam were the usual breakfast on Sunday morning. No fatal accidents have as yet been reported to us. The Art Room was used as the place for side shows, and all afternoon capital gramophone performances and local snap-shot exhibitions were given. Two concerts—far above the usual range of bazaar concerts —were given, and in the evening a little dramatic sketch. The evening "shows" were crowded with enthusiastic audiences. A notable feature of the bazaar was the really excellent Refreshment Stall, where everything of the best was to be had at very moderate prices. At the end. of the day the drawings were announced to be £180. Our heartiest thanks are due to all the stallholders and their assistants, who collected so much valuable work, and were indefatigable all day in their efforts to promote the interests of the School. A special vote of thanks is due to Mr. James A.

The Grammar School Magazine.

Butchart, the Convener, and to Mr. Samuel Pope, Junior, to whom in great measure the success of the bazaar is due. Before Monday morning the magician had again waved his wand, and fairies, sprites, and elfin dells had all vanished silently 'twould seem by night.

JAMES MOIR. "Ay, Sir ; to be honest, as this world goes, is to be one man picked out of ten thousand." —SHAKESPEARE.

WHEN malignant Fate, after buffeting a worthy soul with manifold blows, assailing him with family grief, with bodily weakness, and temporary loss of eyesight, finally, by a deplorably untoward accident, lays her victim low for months, and practically compels his release, at fifty-three, from active and well-performed duty, we call it a hard lot. Such is the dire fortune of our well-beloved co-Rector, who has retired from his post with an allowance of somewhat niggardly proportions from the School Board. The severance of his long-standing connection with the School prompts some words of comment on his kindly reign and genial character. Only, to be complete, these ought to be supplemented by an esoteric estimate from the pen of some of the brilliant pupils who knew him as Teacher—a privilege not enjoyed by the present writer. For interest in the School, for ardent devotion to his work, as well as for loveable affection towards his pupils, we believe few could compare with' Dr. Moir. In particular, his Senior Classes reciprocated his whole-hearted labour in their interest with an affectionate regard that is unusual in this relation. We never heard an ex-pupil use other than the language of eulogy for the Rector's scholarship, his skill in teaching, and sympathetic handling. For the very youngest he had ever a kind word and a genial and fatherly pat. He trampled on the tradition that made the Rectorial presence unapproachable and awful—before which even the innocent were expected to tremble. He easily doffed the panoply of magisterial dignity, and could be affable, intimate, and familiar. Pupils saw in him not an enemy—as used to be the recognised attitude—but a friend, ready with help and guidance. Whether this is the best policy with young barbarians is doubted by some who.

James Moir.

were reared on harsher and more Spartan methods, but Doctor Moir's pupils will hold by their old Master. Yet it must be said that, with all his sterling qualities, he did not always enjoy the support of the powers that be, but was often hampered by meddlesome interference and ungenerous criticism. He was not, in fact, appreciated at his true worth, and never reached the material success that the world views as the only test of merit. His ripe scholarship and his stimulating gifts as a Teacher never received the recognition they deserved ; and to those who knew the man the explanation is easy. Dr. Moir is a Celt of the outspoken type—a Celt in name, in face, and in character. Impulsive and fiery under unwarranted treatment, ready to strike out at unfair criticism, he gave offence because he could not return the soft answer that turneth away wrath. Convinced of his own rectitude, and conscious of his own powers, he disdained to descend to diplomatic finesse, or to modify for any man, however potent, the full expression of his real sentiments. We live in a timid and hypocritical age, when a conventional ethics demands a limp and dilute and restrained answer to the gravest charges. The phlegmatic Saxon can dissemble, and put his tongue in his cheek. But Dr. Moir knew nothing of dissembling, and, when he differed, differed with straightforward courage and expressed himself with honest bluntness. This secured him the dislike of men who, had they been of stronger calibre, would probably have admired his admirable frankness. Passionate against dubious dealing or underhand chicanery, a hater of shams and pretence, he refused to be patronised or patted on the back by either inferiors or superiors. He would have pleased Samuel Johnson, for he was a good hater —perhaps somewhat relentless in his attitude when he thought a personal injury was intended ; not pliable or placable when once forced into opposition ; and yet a strong man, who would have carried others with him had he shown a little more of the Teutonic patience, and used more the smooth tongue that wins favour. It was because this was not possible for him that he was so often misunderstood. Those who knew him best deplored his animosities and the irritating pertinacity of his controversial warfare, because they knew that these things tended only to injure himself ; but they never wavered in their cordial appreciation of his open nature, and of the really tender heart that was apt to be obscured by those surrounding bristles. Like all the rest of us, he had the defects of his qualities. To his proved and tried friends he has been as true as steel, and a strenuous backer of them through good and evil

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report. Sociable, cheery, he was ever a pleasant companion either on the golf course or at the river side, and his fund of story and minute and accurate literary and philological lore make an evening with him in no ordinary degree educative. His varied activities as Parochial Schoolmaster, as Assistant Professor, as Classical Master and Examiner, as President (and latterly energetic Secretary) to the Philosophical Society provided him with rich experiences, which he was ever ready to bring forth for others' delectation. He us has travelled in Greece and in America ; he has given Aberdeen, of Bishops Boece's Hector of edition the standard which he edited for the New Spalding Club; and his scholarly edition of Blind Harry's Wallace for the Scottish Text Society more than justified his recent degree of Doctor been of Literature—a distinction which Aberdeen has as yet of period his That aspirant. other any on confer to unable devothis of permit and adversity may quickly glide past, is our ing himself with undivided mind to literary pursuits, earnest prayer. Although these paragraphs have, from the are nature of the case, taken a retrospective tone, and promise a to hope with look we tense, past the into thrown successes. of useful work which Time will add to his past

" THE WEATHER." meet WHEN two " polished whites" of the genus Britanni prescribes usage gathering, social in or encounter in chance prospects as the opening topic of conversation the state and cold." quite sir, Yes, " sir." day, cold A " of the weather. a day: blustering a " It blows confoundedly." " Yes, sir, this." snow deep a Quite " sir." blustering day, indeed, winter." " Yes, sir, quite a snowy day: this is what I call worthies. these of two drawn Thus it is that a satirist has they Abroad, say in France or Germany or Switzerland, acquaintyour of enquire manage things differently. You bestow ance how it goes with him, how he finds himself, or to remark upon him other personal greetings. If you were off the perthat it was a fine day, when you were mopping he gingham, a beneath yourself sheltering or spiration suspect even might He fish. would think you a very queer your head had been affected by the sun. it is An exception to this rule may be put on record: oversometimes which caution national characteristic of the a shoots the mark. " It's very warm to-day," remarked

The Weather.

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west-end practitioner at his club one day by way of a pleasant opening to his conversation with an immigrant whom the powers that be had located for the time being in an important Scottish city for purposes of public instruction. " Is it? " responded the great one, glowering over his newspaper. Thus ended one of the shortest dialogues on record. For Her Majesty's representative it was solitude, not the weather, that had. charms. We all talk fluently and voluminously of the weather, perhaps not all very intelligently. Why should it be such a perennial source of interest? Every morning we rise brings a new combination of conditions—a delightful uncertainty as to what the day may bring forth. Our gracious Sovereign, it is said, resents warmly the imputation that the climate of Scotland—to dignify our weather by that name— is bad, nay, could be improved upon. He would be a bold man, be he Indian or be he Turk, wha at Balmoral would dare to question this truth. We have been brought up to it ; we cannot get on without it. And that puts me in mind of a " little story," as Abe Lincoln used to say. A young parson fresh from the "Hall," was making the round of his parishioners, and enlightening them all regarding the " superstitions of a worn-out creed," the solstice of Ajalon, the unity of Isaiah, &c., and last, though not least, the personality of the father of lies. " You know, my dear madam, there is no such thing as a devil; there is, it may be, a tendency to evil in some, but the idea would be absurd of supposing that there could be a person who would tempt us to sin," and so forth. " Weel, weel, sir," retorted the dame, " a' dinna ken aboot that, but we hae jest been fe'shen up wi' a deil, an' we canna get on withoot him ! " We have been " fe'shen up " with our dear, fickle goddess—or what you will—and we have come to have a sort of pride in her, not to say affection for her. We love to brave her, to defy her. We whet our courage and brace our nerves in struggles with her, and we should regard life as insipid and devoid of interest if we could always count on a fine day when we went on an excursion, or were holding our annual games. With Lear we say, " Blow, winds, and crack your cheeks, rage, blow ! " It were long to tell all that our east winds, our rainstorms, our snowstorms, our mists, our weather-beaten coasts, and our rugged mountain fastnesses have done for us. We are earth-born as truly as Erichthonius, sons of our land, perhaps giants ! But to rise to the scientific—or, shall we say, to come down to the prosaic ?—Do we ever reflect upon the marvellous nexus of causes that go to pro-

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duce the meteoric phenomena of our everyday life? Meteorology has in these last days asserted its claim to be a science --not yet a very exact one. He that observeth the wind shall not sow, he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap, much less he that observeth the barometer or regardeth the weather report. And yet both are of much interest. We can weigh the air, and measure the wind rate, we can gauge the rainfall and record the sunshine, we can tell the weather there has been all over Europe yesterday, the direction of the wind on every coast, the temperature at every port, but we cannot tell the weather that will be to-morrow—no, not by a long way. Now, why is this? Is meteorology of any practical use? The interest, quite apart from the utility, would justify the study of meteorological phenomena. At present the study has not reached finality—in fact, it is in its infancy. The conditions are so obscure, the combinations so infinite in number, and the introduction of fresh elements into each situation so incalculable that we can meantime only conjecture, or " forecast," and at best our forecasts are but rough approximations. How did our fathers manage without daily weather reports? Perhaps not so much worse than ourselves. They knew when it was a fine day, and congratulated each other on it much as we do. But, further, they embodied their proverbial philosophy on this subject in a series of saws—a collection of which would be of interest to students of folklore as well as to others. One might doubt whether this corpus would be an altogether consistent body of truth, but happily that is not required of it. Let as many readers of the Magazine as have skill in #uch lore contribute their mite ; let a digest be made of it by the Editor ; let us set up a rival office to the one at Greenwich, and let a fair trial be given to the competing systems. Here are one or two by way of heading the list:— " An east rain makes fools fain." " What Friday gets Friday keeps, And Saturday dries what Friday weets." " A dry May and a leaking June Makes the farmer whistle a merry tune." " Rain in May makes the hay."

A 0LIIS.

THE I.C.S. EXAMS. BY A RECENT COMPETITOR. THANK heaven these confounded exams. for the I.C.S. are over! They have been hanging over me like a nightmare

The I.C.S. Exams.

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for the last month ; but they are over now, and I have only to wait and trust in Providence for a successful issue. The first day I went up I was in an awful funk. Being down early, I had time to have a look at most of the fellows coming in. Two or three passed, and I took note of them. A lone, pale-faced youth passed, whose face suggested to me the frequent use of cold water bandages and strong coffee to keep him awake. I wasn't frightened at him; he looked as if he had overworked himself. Then passed another quiet-looking individual—a man who seemed to have in his head all the languages and sciences under the sun. I got rather in a funk of him, and then I had the first feeling of an earthquake in my shoes. I had been up for exams. before, but never have I felt that peculiar shaking. My knees shook ; then my whole body. Finally I thought myself a fool for beginning exams. in this way. I tried to brace myself up with the selfsatisfied idea that perhaps I was just as good as he was. Two or three times, however, this strange feeling passed over me as I saw others enter. At last the hour had come when we all had to enter to try to make the examiner believe that we knew a mighty lot more than we really did. Round came the papers. I glanced at them round went my head. What questions was I going to answer? I had a vague idea of everyone of them. But how was I to expand five questions out of eight so as to fill up a book 12 pages long, and give the examiner an idea that I knew something? I didn't know. Still, I had to begin. But before doing so I thought I would just have a look round to see what the others were doing. The first thing I noticed was a decidedly loud blue shirt—(the weather being very hot we were allowed to strip) —and coming out from the neck of it I saw a head. No face was visible, but just then the writer took a dip of ink, and I immediately recognised the face of my overworked friend of the morning. It was only a glance, as off he started to write again. I, however, consoled myself with the thought that it was quality not quantity the examiner wanted ; so I stuck to quality, though quantity had to be employed occasionally as padding. Another look, and there I saw an old friend of mine, who had worked at the same place. He was doing much the same work as I was—having a look round to see how the others were getting on. This same fellow was rather a wit in his own way, and a great smoker. I happened to ask him one day what he would

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do if he got a " plough " in his exams. He immediately replied that he was going to try to get a post behind the counter of P. and G., so that he could always have plenty of tobacco to smoke. (P. and G. have many shops in London.) That reminds me that another man I knew going up for the I.C.S., when asked a similar question as regards his future life should he be unsuccessful, answered that he had engaged a crossing outside Charing Cross, where he would be at home every fine day. To return to the exams. themselves. The first hour had just gone when I thought I would have to begin to write something. Accordingly I started with great eclat, but found I had written a page off the point. However, that served as quantity. Now for the quality ! This rather puzzled me. However, by dint of a little thinking plus imagination, I remembered something. So the three hours rolled on, and I thought I had exhausted all my knowledge of this subject in that time ; but still I had to find matter for another three-hours' paper in the afternoon on the same subject. Time was called, and out we tumbled for lunch. " How did you like that paper? " I was immediately asked. I pretended not to hear. "Rather easy?" the same fellow again asked.. Now I had got a clue. I thought the paper beastly difficult, but nevertheless I replied that the paper was rather too easy, as it did not give those that knew the subject the same chance. " Hullo ! what did you think of the paper?" came from another fellow I knew. " Rather easy," I immediately replied. " What ! " said he with great astonishment. He thought it difficult. (So did I.) However, I squirmed -out of it by an evasive answer, and when anybody asked me how I liked that paper I always asked, " How did you? " The exams. passed along in various ways. Either I knew the subject or I didn't. When I knew the subject I wrote like a demon, but that wasn't often. When I didn't know the subject I looked around—viewing my friend in the blue shirt, the future crossing sweeper, and the counterjumper of P. and G. I only hope, however, that these last two will get through, as they are neither qualified nor suited to carry out these duties. As for myself, I am quite philosophical over the matter now the exams. are over. Either I have passed or I have not. I can't change it; and I have now to wait for the result. Should the result be favourable to me, I will regard the

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The LC.S. Exams.

exams. with great pleasure. I will make out that they are frightfully difficult, so as to impress my relatives and acquaintances. Should they be unfavourable, my friends and relatives will hear nothing about them. I will have a week or two before the results, and will have a good time I hope. I. C. S.

SANDHURST. SANDHLTRST is situated in the midst of wooded and heatherclad country, and affords ample facilities for recreation in the shape of football, cricket, hockey, shooting, &c., as well as for all outdoor work connected with the military studies pursued. In summer the boating lake is especially popular, although mere rowing is considered a very tame form of amusement, and the ramming of one boat by another—until one or both are overturned—takes the place of rowing proper. Each term, company matches in football, cricket, shooting, &c., are carried on, and are always keenly contested. Drill and riding prizes are also competed for by the different companies. As regards study, the work on the whole is very pleasant, • being to a great extent carried on out of doors. For educational purposes the cadets are formed into three divisions of 120 each, and for the purpose of drill these are divided into six companies of 60 each. The subjects taken up are purely military, with the exception of French and German. —the only relics left of our school days. The physical training consists of drill, gymnastics, riding, and sword drill —the last-named being taken up by the seniors in place of gymnastics. Riding is the most popular of these, although it is largely carried on without reins and stirrups; and to the novice the first ride is a hideous nightmare, in which the necessity for clutching the pommel is an important feature. The usual day commences with parade from 7 to 8 a.m., Morning study takes place from followed by breakfast. is a further interval for lunch. there 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., when and is occupied by rides, varied, more is afternoon The for the different French gymnastics, sword drill,. and evening study is and p.m., 8 at served is Mess divisions. carried on for an hour after 9 p.m., and finally " lights out " sounds at 10.30 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays, and. Sundays are the exceptions to this rule, there being only one parade on each of these days, and leave may be granted till late at

The Grammar School Magazine.

night. In addition, weekly leave is also granted on Saturdays up to Sunday night. On the whole, the cadets enjoy plenty of freedom ; and Sandhurst life is eminently fitted for turning out good officers for the Army. A. F. M.

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS OF F.P.'s. LEBOMBO, 29th October.

DEAR MATER, I am safe and sound here on the top of the Lebombo Mountains, perfectly happy and contented, and living like a fighting cock. The only thing we have to growl about is that we have no news of how the war is progressing. Archie and I were the last two Britishers to leave Bremersdorp ; and then we should not have left, if we had not been told plainly that it was not safe for us to remain. The Dutch police looted one of the stores in town before we left, and we were expecting them to start upon our place at any time, but they didn't. I think it was because they knew Archie had a considerable influence with the Swazis, and were afraid the natives would help us. On the day war was declared we went to interview the Special Commissioner, and were told by him that we could remain if we liked, but at our own risk, and he also gave us to understand that in time of war any suspicion of our having any dealings with natives or with the outside world would meet with very little investigation. We were warned as we were leaving the Court-House by one of the officials—who, by the way, was an.Englishman—that it was advisable to clear out. We then went to the British Consul, and found that he had just got his papers, and was going to leave in a day or so. We had lunch with him, and he advised us to go. We left the Queen's Secretary—an educated native—in charge of the store, and rode off. On the way we picked up another fellow and two horses. We met two patrols of Dutchmen, but as we were in the majority, and well armed, they were remarkably civil. We rode about 45 miles that night, and off-saddled at Buckhasn's Stores, on the banks of the Imbulusi River. We put our horses in the cattle kraal, and, thoroughly tired out, went to bed, or rather to sleep, as the bed was only a blanket on a hard counter. In the morning

Extracts from Letters of F.P.'s

we found that all the horses had been let out of the kraal, and two of the best were missing. We spent all day looking for those, but couldn't find them. We discovered afterwards that they had been jumped out of the kraal by Dutchmen, and taken back to Bremersdorp. Next morning we started off, and without any more adventures arrived here, having ridden 53 miles over bad country. We found a crowd of people here, and had difficulty in getting any accommodation. We had to " doss " down in a hut with four other fellows. We have heard several rumours of Dutch raiding parties coming up here, but I don't think there is anything to fear. We have a force of Portuguese native soldiers just close by for our protection, and, though they wouldn't be much good against a regular force, they are good enough, I think, to keep off a raiding party. We are in disputed territory here, the boundary having never been properly fixed between Swaziland and Tongaland. It is a beautiful country about here, and there is any quantity of game. We have been pretty well living un buck meat. I don't think there is much else to tell you, so I will close. I hope this letter will reach you all right. I am, your loving son, J. C. W.

ORANGE RIVER, SOUTH AFRICA, 20th .November, 1899.

DEAR W

) We arrived at Cape Town about three weeks ago, and left for De Aar Camp the day after, where we were under canvas for about ten days. We left there for this place (Orange River) last Monday, and we leave here to go across the river to-day. Probably we leave Orange River for good to-morrow, to advance for the relief of Kimberley. We go by road, because the railway lines between here and Modder River are torn up, and the bridge over it is destroyed. No doubt we shall have some stiff fighting to do before we get into Kimberley, for the Boers have surrounded the place, and I don't think they are more than fifteen miles from here. I hear they have poisoned the water farther up , they will give us a lot of country. Believe me, W trouble before this war is over. What do the people at home think of it?

The. Grammar School Magazine.

On Saturday there were six niggers brought in as prisoners, but I don't know what they say, though, of course, the staff officers do. Well, W , as we have got to strike camp, I must close. Believe me, yours sincerely, X. Y. Z.

FOOTBALL. 1899.

Oct. 7.—Scuom v. NOMADS.—This match, the first of the season, was played at the School grounds. The School kicked off, playing down the field, but the ball was well returned, and play settled in the School 25. The ball was passed out from a scrimmage to 'Bisset, who ran in far out. He took the kick himself, but failed to convert. In a very short time Bisset again scored, and by a splendid kick secured a goal. The School now began to exert themselves, and once it seemed as if they were going to score. Johnson got the ball, and passed the Nomads three-quarters, but in swerving to pass the fullback he was overtaken and tackled by another player. This was the only time during the match that the School appeared likely to score. In the second half the School seemed to fall to pieces, and the Nomads did pretty much what they pleased. Walters was the first to score, followed by Barker, M`Lean, and Ross, only one of these tries, however, being converted. The game resulted in a total defeat of the School by 2 goals 4 tries (22 points) to nil. The Nomads were by far the heavier team, and the School played one short. This, however, was no excuse for so bad a defeat, which was mainly due to weak tackling on the part of the School. Until the School learn to tackle a man by the legs, and not by his hair, they need not expect to make a good stand against a heavy team. Brodie, in his first match for the School, proved himself worthy of his place. Johnson's run in the first half was the only brilliant piece of play on the School side, and if some one had backed him up the School would undoubtedly have scored. Oct. 14.—ScnooL v. 2ND F.P.'s.—The School won the toss, and elected to play up. Soon after the kick off the F.P.'s began to press, and forced the School back to their own 25. A series of scrimmages then ensued. From one of these the School heeled-out the ball, and one of the halves picking it up, got in a kick. Brodie and Rae followed up, and dribbled up the field, but in their anxiety to score over-ran the ball.

Football.

Butchart, however, picked it up and passed to Robertson, who kicked and following up, brought down his man. Rae got the ball from the scrimmage, and passed to Robertson, who managed to cross the line, and afterwards converted. In the second half the F.P.'s played harder, and from a scrimmage within the School 25 Pope scored their first try. The kick, however, failed. The drop-out being well followed up, play was transferred to the middle of the field. Robertson, getting the ball from a scrimmage, almost scored, but on being tackled passed to Butchart, who was able to score. The School still continued to press. Rae by a splendid throw from touch gave Robertson the ball, and before the F.P.'s knew what was happening he had kicked a very neat goal. The F.P. forwards now came away with a rush, carried the ball right up to the School 25, hacked it over the line, and scored. Gauld took the kick, but failed to convert. The drop-out was well returned, and the F.P.'s again began to press. Brodie, getting the ball from touch, passed the F.P. three-quarters and full-back, and it seemed as if nothing could prevent him from scoring, but Merrylees overtook and tackled him when he was within 15 yards of the line. The F.P. forwards again carried the ball into the School 25. Just before time Gauld scored, but the kick was unsuccessful. The game thus resulted in a win for the School, the scores being : —School, 1 goal, 1 drop goal, 1 try (12 points) ; F.P.'s, 3 tries (9 points). The F.P.'s have not so good a team as last year, but they did not play their best. The School played a much better game than they did against the Nomads. The forwards formed up more quickly and heeled-out better, but fell away after the School had scored their 12 points. If the F.P.'s had kicked even two out of their three tries, they would have won. If the forwards had not fallen away towards the end, the F.P.'s would only have scored once. Robertson's drop kick was very neatly and quickly done. Brodie had hard lines in not scoring, and if he bad had a little more speed would certainly have scored. Oct. 21.--SCHOOL v. PETERHEAD ACADEMICALS.—On this date the Peterhead Academicals travelled to Aberdeen and played the School. They arrived four men short, but managed to get three before starting to play, and another at half-time. The match resulted in a win for the School by 3 penalty goals, 1 try (12 points) to nil. The game was remarkable for the number of free kicks, the School getting three within the first five minutes. Our victory was largely owing to Robertson's splendid kicking. In the first half he kicked two goals from almost half-field, both being close to the touch line. Pearson,

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of the Academicals, had a very good run, and almost scored. In the second half Robertson secured a goal after a very fine piece of passing, the ball going right along the back line. The School got another free kick, from which Robertson again kicked a goal. The Peterhead Academicals did not know much about the game, and perhaps the referee might have been less strict with them. But, on the other hand, if he had not acted as he did the School might have objected, and after all, it is but right that the team which knows most about the game should win. The School played a good game, the passing of the backs being very good. J. Shaw, at full-back, did not make a single mistake, and we may say here that he very seldom does. He is the oldest player in the team, having played for the 1st in season 1896-97. The teams had tea in the lunch room after the match. When tea was over several songs were sung. T. Robertson sang the School song " Bon-Record," the team joining in the chorus. M. Macrae gave a Gaelic song, which was very much appreciated. H. J. BUTCHART, Captain. Nov. 11.—ScHooz v. 2ND 'SiiiRE.—This match was played at the School grounds before a large crowd of spectators. Dr. Kelly acted as referee. The School, which was without its usual half-backs, lost the toss, and had to play up field with the sun and wind in their faces. The 'Shire had easily the best of the game in the first half, keeping the School within their 25 almost the whole time. Just before half-time Macphail scored for the 'Shire, the kick being splendidly converted. At half-time the score was : —'Shire, 1 goal (5 points); School, nil. In the second half the game was of a more equal nature, both ends being visited in turn. The School were several times within their opponents' 25, and had hard lines in not scoring. The game ended in a win for the 'Shire by 1 goal (5 points) to nil. For the School, Shaw played a splendid game at goal, his kicking saving the School many times, and Brebner, Giles, and Fraser at forward also played well. The 'Shire had by far the best of the game throughout, and well deserved their victory. Nov. 15.-CLASSICAL v. MODERN.—This match took place on Wednesday afternoon, Mr. Myers acting as referee. Shortly after the commencement the Classical pressed, and were soon in the Modern's 25. From a scrimmage Robertson dropped a goal for the Classical, and this proved to be the only scoring which took place. The game was very evenly contested, and

Football.

an interesting match ended in a win for the Classical by 1 drop goal (4 points) to nil. Nov. 18.—SCHOOL v. 2ND F.P.'s.—This match was played at the School grounds before a few spectators. Mr. J. Rae acted as referee. The School won .the toss, and played up field. They formed up splendidly, and had most of the game. About five minutes before half-time J. Michie scored for the F.P.'s, owing to some bad play by one of the School forwards. A. Gauld converted with a beautiful kick. Shortly afterwards the whistle blew for half-time, the scores standing :—F.P.'s, 1 goal (5 points) • School, nil. In the second half the School had by far the best of the game. The three-quarters were partly to blame for the School not scoring, as they indulged too much in kicking when they ought to have passed. In the middle of this half Merrylees had a good run for the F.P.'s, not being brought down till he had gained a lot of ground. The School, however, soon bore the F.P.'s down to their own 25 again, and kept them there until the end of the game. The match ended in a win for the F.P.'s by 1 goal (5 points) to nil. Nov. 25.-1sT XV. v. 2ND XV.—This match was contested at the School grounds, Mr. Myers acting as referee. The 1st had it all their own way, scoring 4 tries (one of which was converted) in the first half, and 7 tries (one of which was converted) the second. Tries were obtained by Robertson, Bisset, Rae, Johnston, Watson, and Macrae. For the 2nd, Shepherd and A. Fraser at forward, Kilgour and Lillie at half, A. Giles at three-quarters, and Wright at goal, were the best. Dec. 2.—GRAMMAR SCHOOL V. UNIVERSITY WANDERERS.—This match was played at the School grounds before a fair turn-out of spectators, Mr. J. Strachan acting as referee. The wet condition of the field was against good play, and consequently the game was not quite so interesting as it might have been. The School won the toss, and elected to play up field. The University kicked off, and the kick was well returned. The School began to press, and made matters pretty lively for the Wanderers, compelling them to touch down several times. From a " scrum " at centre field Robertson got the ball passed to him, and, following up a long punt, opened the scoring for the Grammar. Shaw took the kick, but failed to bring out the major points. The Wanderers got little relief from the kick out, and were soon in their own 25 again. Shortly after this the Grammar added a drop goal (4 points) to their score. From the kick off the Wanderers pressed, and were soon within the School 25. From a " scrum almost on the goal line their forwards rushed the ball over, and secured a try. Angus took the kick, but failed to convert. Shortly afterwards half-time arrived, the scores standing : —Grammar, 1 dropped goal, 1 try (7 points) ; University Wanderers, 1 try (3 points). In the

The Grammar School Magazine.

second half the School had, on the whole, the best of. matters. Shortly after the kick off E. Rae crossed the Wanderers' line, and secured a second try for the school. The kick was taken by T. Clark, who scored a splendid goal. The Wanderers were nettled at this, and commenced to show up better. For a while play ranged within the School 25, but, owing to the quickness of the School's three-quarters, play was taken to mid-field. During this half D. Bisset had a good run for the School, not being brought down till he had gained a lot of ground. Towards the end of the game the play was of a rather slow nature. When the whistle blew for time the scores were as follows :— Grammar, 2 goals (1 dropped), 1 try (12 points); University Wanderers, 1 try (3 points). (To be continued.)

THE RUGBY XV. BY THE SECRETARY. THE School has a very fine set of players this year, particularly

in the forward pack. Should the School beat the 2nd F.P.'s in February, it will be the first junior team in the town. Back— J. SHAW.—Finds touch beautifully with his kick. Always ready, and very fast. Three-quarter Backs— F. R. JOHNSON.—Fills up F. H. Fraser's place splendidly. Has not made a mistake in the game this season. Is extremely difficult to bring down, so great is his force while running. H. BISSET.-A rare " find." Is one of our smartest backs. Passing very accurate. Should practise kicking. T. B. ROBERTSON.—Particularly good kick. Has a great knack of scoring. Has had some very fine drop kicks this season, and finds touch very well. Has his fault —selfish in passing. Halves— W. BRODIE.—Weak at this place. Is unable to stop a rush, and leaves the " picking up " to the other half. Is, however, very smart at touch, and shows very great skill in passing. Forwards— J. BREBNER.--Occupies position of centre forward, and is a particularly good worker. Leads his men magnificently through the " scrum." His dribbling is very fine, and he is regularly on the ball. Great skill is required to stop his big rushes.

The Rugby XV.

G. GILES.—His play is similar to Brebner's. He works very hard in the forward pack. W. FRASER.—Needs a lot of practice yet. Very slow in the open. Has got good weight, and could do great things. Has a good knowledge of the game. M. MAcRAE.—Commenced this year. Rather ignorant of the rules. Is far too eager to score for a forward. Is very smart at times, and has great speed. Has some first-rate rushes. W. RAE.—Though light, works very well all through the game. Is always on the ball. Has imprcked greatly since the commencement of the season, and now almost rivals Brebner. Should practise kicking. A. C. HAY.-Inclined to be very slow at times; but for all that is a particularly good forward, and forms into the " scrum " very well. D. WATSON.—Cannot play three-quarter back. Cannot take a good pass. Is very useful at the front, and holds well. Should be kept there. T. C. CLARXE.—Worked very well at first, but dropped off very considerably. Is rather given to picking up the ball, which he should keep at his feet. Full-back should be his place. W. K1LGOUR.—Tried at half, and will take Brodie's place. Is very smart on the ball, and brings down his opponent very smartly.

EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTE-BOOK OF THE LITERARY CLUB AND DEBATING SOCIETY. 1899. Sept. 6.—A meeting of the Upper School was held in Room I., for the purpose of electing office-bearers. Mr. Murison presided. The Patrons and the Hon. President were unanimously reelected. The new office-bearers were : —President, W. Rae; Vice-Presidents, H. J. Butchart, G. S. Russell, T. Watt; Secretary and Treasurer, D. Anderson; Committee—J. Edwards, J. M. Hector, D. E. Rae, A. M. Shinnie, B. Wright. Sept. 22.—The first meeting of the Society was held in Room XIX., when a lecture, entitled " The Poets-Laureate of England," was delivered by Rev. J. M. Danson, D.D. Mr. Simpson, the Rector, occupied the chair After intimating an apology for absence from Mr. Murison, Hon. President of the Society, the Chairman introduced the lecturer.

The Grammar School Magazine.

The lecturer first gave us the history of the office of PoetLaureate, then dealt individually with each of the poets who had held that office. The lecture was listened to with great attention. At the close votes of thanks to Dr. Danson and Mr. Simpson were proposed by the President and Secretary respectively. These were heartily accorded. Sept. 27.—At a Committee meeting held on 26th September, G. S. Russell, Vice-President, intimated his resignation of his office. This was accepted by the Committee, and it was resolved to call a meeting of the Society for Wednesday, 27th September, to elect a Vice-President to fill G. S. Russell's place. At this meeting J. M. Hector was elected Vice-President, and J. M. Robertson was elected to fill J. M. Hector's place on the Committee. Sept. 29.—The Society met in Room I. at 7 p.m. President W. Rae in the chair. The minutes of last meeting were read and approved of. This was " Hat Night." The " hat " was passed round, and each member was supplied with a subject upon which he had to speak. The President then called upon each member in turn to speak. The speeches were very good on the whole, but, like all good things, they were made up in small parcels. After the speeches were finished, the following impromptu debates were given out by the Chairman :— " Is War in the Transvaal Inevitable? " This question was very warmly discussed for a long time. The result of the voting was : —Affirmative, 16; negative, 12. Then came the inevitable one—" Should Association or Rugby Football be Played at the Grammar School? " As the result of the voting shows, the supporters of Rugby were in the majority. The result was : —Association, 3; Rugby, 23. " Are Ghosts Real or Imaginary? " This subject was well discussed. One member struck terror into the hearts of his audience by telling of some ghost he had seen in a lonely country churchyard. This so cowed the members that it stopped the debate. Members evidently thought it was better to leave questions dealing with the land of the Shades alone. The result of the voting was : —Real, 16; Imaginary, 17. Oct. 6.—The Society met in Room I.—the President in the chair. The minutes of last meeting having been read and approved of, the first paper of the debate, " Which is the Happier : the Barbarian or the Civilized man? " was read by G. S. Russell. J. Edwards then supported the civilized man. Both papers showed great care in preparation. The debate was then discussed, and the two papers fully criticised by the members. The voting showed that 18 supported barbarian happiness, while 15 supported civilized happiness.

Extracts from Minute-Book of Debating Society.

Oct. 13.—The Society met in Room XIX., when a lecture on " Oliver Goldsmith " was delivered by Rev. A. Doak. Mr. Murison, Hon. President, occupied the chair. The meeting was very largely attended. Mr. Murison, in introducing the lecturer, congratulated the Society on having secured so many eminent citizens to deliver lectures. Mr. • Doak, on being called upon, delivered a most entertaining lecture, dealing with the various stages of Goldsmith's life-his boyhood, his college life, his travels on the Continent, and his life in London. The lecturer gave many humorous sketches of Goldsmith's escapades, which were greatly enjoyed. At the close of the lecture, on the motions of the President and the Secretary, votes of thanks were very heartily accorded to Mr. Doak and Mr. Murison respectively. Oct. 20.—The President took the chair in Room I. at 7 p.m. The minutes of last meeting were read and approved of. The business of the evening—the criticism of the School Magazine—was taken up. The Magazine was very fully and The principal speakers were very judiciously criticised. Butchart, Russell, Stephen, and Watt. After this the following F.P.'s were proposed and seconded as members of the Society : —J. C. Lyon, H. Merrylees, W. Stephen, J. Strachan. Oct. 27.—The Society met in Room I.—Vice-President H. J. Butchart in the chair. The business of the evening was the debate—" Ought we to have Conscription in Great Britain? " The minutes of last meeting having been read and approved of, D. Anderson read his paper in support of the affirmative. W. Rae was then called upon to give his paper in support of the negative. The question was very warmly discussed for about two hours. The result of the voting showed that 20 were in favour of conscription, while 13 were against it. Nov. 3.—The Society met in Room XIX. There was a large attendance of members and their friends. The business of the evening was a lecture on " The Traditionary Ballads of Scotland " by Rev. G. Webster Thomson. The Rector occupied the chair. The lecturer, beginning with the origin of the ballads, laid special stress on the simplicity of their language. He compared them with the high-flown artificial style of poetry written in the seventeenth century. He also compared the prosaic nature of the English ballad with the romantic nature of the Scottish ballad. Mr. Thomson read several ballads to illustrate what he had been saying. These poems were greatly appreciated.

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The meeting closed with votes of thanks to the lecturer and the chairman, proposed by the President and the Secretary. These were heartily accorded by the audience. One lamentable feature of the evening was the number who came in late, thereby interrupting the lecture. It is to be hoped that, for the sake of the Society, this fault will be remedied. , Nov. 10.—The President, W. Rae, took the chair at 7 p.m. After the minutes of last meeting had been read and approved of, A. M. Shinnie read a very interesting paper in support of Cremation in the debate " Cremation v. Burial." T. Watt, who supported Burial, also read a very carefully prepared paper. The subject, when thrown open to the meeting, was well discussed. One member advocated mummies. He is evidently not content with being the man of the hour, but he would also like to be " mummified," so that he may be unearthed a few thousand years hence, and be laid in a glass case to be admired by all. The chief speakers were Falconer, A. Lyon, Russell, and Stephen. The vote showed that Cremation was supported by 16, while 9 supported Burial. Nov. 17.—Under the auspices of the Society, a lecture, entitled " In Sweden with a Camera," was delivered by Mr. J. B. Philip. The lecture was illustrated by limelight views. There was a record attendance at this lecture. Mr. Murison, Hon. President of the Society, occupied the chair, and introduced the lecturer. At the beginning of the lecture there was great amusement at the antics of the map of Scandinavia. This map had evidently made up its mind that it would not appear on the screen the right way. First it stood on its head, then it lay on either side. Turn the slide how he would, the poor janitor, who was working the lantern, could not put it right. The stubborn map seemed to take encouragement from the roars of laughter which greeted each new position. At last, after many futile attempts, the lecturer asked the janitor to leave it standing on its head. He then showed us how he had travelled.• Mr. Philip delivered a most interesting lecture, telling us about the country, the people and' their customs. A great number of splendid pictures, taken by Mr. Philip himself, were thrown on the screen. The lecturer told many amusing stories of his wanderings, and also some " tall" American stories. These were greatly enjoyed. At the close of the lecture, votes• of thanks were proposed to Mr. Philip, Mr. Murison, and the janitor. These were all , , very heartily reapanded to. D• A‘,, (To be continued.)

The Library.

LIBRARY. CATALOGUE.—The Catalogue of the whole Library is not yet quite ready, but is being hurried up as much as possible. The Catalogue of the Reference Department, however, is now complete, and will be found in the Library. INDICATORS have now been obtained, through the kindness of Mr. Robertson, of the Public Library, and will doubtless be of great service. PRESENTATIONS.—The Literary and Debating Society (189899) have presented £1 15s. to the Library, with which several new books by the very best authors have been procured. John Clark (F.P.) has presented two vols. of Chums (18941896), and one or two other presentations by members of the Committee and of the Library itself have been made. STAFF.-K. Crawford left in November, and J. Saunders, who is doing excellent work, was appointed to fill his place. J. M. Hector has also joined the staff, and is working very hard and very well. J. Edwards was appointed Secretary to the Library in December. GENERAL.—On the whole, the Library is prospering, but it does not receive from the School anything like the support it should. G. STANLEY RUSSELL, Hon. Librarian.

SWIMMING CLUB. A MEETING for the election of office-bearers was held in Room I. on Friday, 1st December—G. S. Russell, in the absence of the Rector, occupying the chair. The result of the elections was as follows : — Captain—T. G. Clarke. Vice-Captain—J. Edwards. Secretary and Treasurer—T. B. Robertson. Committee J. Brebner, W. Brodie, A. M. Shinnie, J. Brown, L. Smith, B. Wright, C. Walker, N. Dunn. It is hoped that the Club will have a most successful session, and that the School will give it in every way its heartiest support. T. G. C.

CYCLING CLUB. METHLICIE.—This run was held on Saturday, 3rd June, and was voted the best run of the season. The Hon. Captain even

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forsook his much-loved golf to accompany the Club, which met at the Bridge of Don, and started forthwith for its destination. The run out was quite uneventful, and the Club had tea at Methlick, and brought home glowing accounts of that tea. On the way home a member of Committee, now one of the shining lights of the Magazine staff, undertook to guide the Club by " a short cut." It was found, however, to be about twice as long, and that member of Committee was made painfully aware of the fact before Aberdeen was reached. INVERURIE.—The number that turned up to this run was simply disgraceful—there is no other word for it—though perhaps it would be better for some other official than the Secretary to admonish the Club on that point. Still, eight out of thirty-four is not a very large proportion. The run was very enjoyable for everyone except one poor individual whose crank utterly refused to work after we had passed Kintore. Somehow or other, on the rare occasions that gentleman does turn out, something is sure to go wrong either with his machine or with himself. G. STANLEY RUSSELL, Hon. Secretary.

CRICKET SEASON, 1899. 1. v. STONEHAVEN THISTLE—at Cowie. Thistle, 63; School, 56. 2. v. ASYLUM-at Asylum. Asylum, 30; School, 36 for two wickets. 3. v. GRAMMAR SCHOOL F.P.'s—at the Asylum. F.P.'s, 60; School, 60. KITTYB RE W STER MECHANICS—at Grammar. v. 2ND 4. Mechanics, 6; School, 128. 5. v. M ONALTRYE-at Ballater. School, 34 ; Monaltrie, 82. 6. v. TURRIFF-at Turriff. Turriff, 102; School, 86 for seven wickets. 7. v. GRAMMAR SCHOOL F.P.'s (return)—at Asylum. F.P.'s, 208 for five wickets; School, 122 for nine wickets. 8. v. ASYLUM (return)—at Asylum. Asylum, 55; School, 93. 9. v. 2ND CLIFTON—at Grammar. School, 68; Clifton, 15. Won, 4; lost, 2 ; tied, 1 ; drawn, 2. Runs for-683 for 78 wickets; against-621 for 85 wickets.

Our Prize Competitions.

OUR PRIZE COMPETITIONS. have much pleasure in announcing the results of the Magazine Competitions. For Competition I.—to compose fifty lines of poetry on any patriotic subject—only one entered, and he was disqualified through not sending in his name. The winner of the Competition for the best suggestion for improving the Magazine is "A. L. G." Competition III.—to make up a list of the ten men whose lives are most to be admired—has been won by J. Edwards. The competitions for the next issue of the Magazine will be announced on the notice boards in the School. We hope that a large number will enter for them. WE

CEU FUMUS. " Lay me true, and load me tight, The Boer will soon be out of sight." " Who sups with me needs a devil of a long spoon." (Inscriptions on the naval guns at Ladysmith.)

EADEM LATINE. Dirige me fartum bene ; disploderis in auras, Boere, mox " Thomas Longus " et iste tuus.

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Qui mecum cenat, mirum quam prorsus ab ovo Longus abesse capit, nec mea mala manet. 2 LADYSMITII-MAFEKING-KIMBERLEY. Oom Paul and his " ole Dutch " declare, " These ' Roineks ' we've got 'em all there " ; But so tightly they sit, This kind will not " git " For fasting, psalms, cannon, and prayer!

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. DEC/MO.—Your question is rather a poser.

There is not to our knowledge any written rule to that effect. Ask the Secretary of the Literary and Debating Society, who is a sort of walking encyclopaedia for that sort of thing.

The Grammar School Magazine.

What do you want to know for? Perhaps it's the view. Come and see. ALDIBORON.—Your suggestion was a very good one, but in Vol. III. you will find three interviews—one with an Emperor, one with an actor, and one with Louis de Rougemont (who is very difficult to classify). What more could you wish? As for " Ian Maclaren," we tried it, but the great novelist only arrived on Saturday night and left on Monday mornning ; so it was " no go." We hope for better luck, however, " in the sweet by-and-bye." J. B.D.—(1) We fear your suggestion would not even be listened to. " Rugga Feetball " has always been played here, and will probably continue to be as long as the game exists. (2) Look at the editorial part of the Mag., and never so much as breathe " Soccer " Club again. JOEY.—We cannot accept anonymous contributions, and anonymous answers to Competitions are at once disqualified. J. M. H.—Your idea for substituting letters for the crest on the School cap is not a bad one; but why not have both? Wouldn't it be better to have the whole crest, with the motto? Our cap is rather pretty, and the only thing we have to regret is that all do not wear it. Every boy in the School ought to wear the School colours. CURIOUS.—You are; very.

Is willing to consider all Articles submitted to him, School Notes, and to use all that are in any way suitable. welcome -the especially are &c., Boys, Old about Notes only condition being that they MUST BE INTERESTING.

The Editor