AGS Magazine May 1902

flOar, 1902.

Wt. V., 1140. 3. )

C—ID‘CSQ,

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Educational Books.

JAMES G. BISSET 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.

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N.B.-BEST VALUE IN STUDENTS' NOTE. BOOKS.

JAMES G. BISSET, Cla39tcal, fllJatcal, ant) Ebucational Zookselter,

85 BROAD STREET (Opposite Marischal College).

F. B. KELLY, 10 ST. NICHOWIS STREET.

tailoring.

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Football & Cricket Outfits.

Athletic Costumes. )Evcninci Dress wits. %bids, ties, Gloves.

1St XV., I 90 I= IG02,.

C. F. G. Crawford.

H. M. Midge.

G. J. Baxter.

R. WDougall. A. R. Taylor. H. Middleton. A. D. Williamson.

J. MacPherson.

D. B. NicsL W. W. Jameson (Captain).

W. L M. Grant. H. MacPherson.

M. J. Williamson.

D. H. W. Williamson.

L A. Smith.

THE

5rammar School tliaga3ine.

Vol. V.

MAY, 1902.

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No. 3.

WHEN first we took up the pen and wrote " Hail, Horrors, Hail," we had visions in our mind of sleepless nights, torn hair, and a perpetually worried spirit. Our visions, we are glad to say, did not come to pass, and as we lay down our pen preparatory to " leaving now for ever," we would like to express the great pleasure our duty has given us. We can scarcely imagine anything more enjoyable than editing a school magazine, and we would recommend anyone wavering as to whether he should accept such a duty, to accept it, and we feel sure he will never regret it.

We should like to express our thanks to those who have helped to maintain our Magazine both by contribution and by subscription. We have received much encouragement from Former Pupils, and we hope our successors will also receive as liberal a quantity from them. We have to thank Mr. C. Davidson and Mr. A. W. Edwards, Secretary of the F.P.'s Club, for helping to increase our list of subscribers.

We must also thank our brother editors for the help they have given us in issuing the Magazine. We could have done nothing without them.

This number of the Magazine has been delayed on account of the late arrival of the results of the Bursary List.

As we require the statistics, we were compelled to wait for

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them. The delay, we believe, was caused by the error in the Latin Papers, which upset matters so much at the time.

This mistake must have caused no small annoyance to the Examiners, but we do not think that this can have been the sole reason of delay. We are afraid everyone was becoming rather impatient, but as the results are out, we shall say no more.

For this issue we print the last of the series, " Remember the Days of Old," by Dr. John Forbes White, of Dundee.

As Dr. White is a well-known Old Boy, and as he is known as a writer of a good article, we are sure his paper will be appreciated. We have also a short descriptive article by a son of Dr. White, " A Week with the Boers." Another F.P. contribution is from F. W. Galloway, who is now in the Indian Civil Service. Our Frontispiece is a photo. of the 1st XV., 1901-1902, which has had such a successful season.

We have received from one of our most prominent Old Boys, Admiral Sir Arthur Farquhar, K.C.B., a donation of £1 for the Magazine. We beg to thank Sir Arthur for his generous gift.

We now turn to what Alma Mater calls the Derby of Aberdeen—the Bursary Competition. We awaited the results eagerly, and when they came we had just reason to be proud. Five places out of the first ten is an achievement which is not often performed. Although the post of honour did not fall into our hands, we can give ourselves a good pat on the back for what we have done. We have put our great rival in this competition—Robert Gordon's College— in the shade, and also every other school. Taking the averages, a considerable difference is shown between the Grammar and any other school, which shows that, however much anyone may say against the Grammar, it cannot be plucked on this point.

We would congratulate A. R. Williamson, who heads the Grammar list with the 4th place. Great hopes had been entertained about him, and they have not been disappointed.

Williamson would probably have taken a higher place had he not arrived an hour late for the Greek paper, which is a very serious loss of time. George E. Hay and Hugh S. Robertson are others who are to be congratulated on their distinguished places. Great delight prevails in the VI. Classical owing to the fact that Ian Kendall Burnett at his

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first trial has managed to capture the 16th place. This is a marvellous display for a first trial and we congratulate Burnett on it, and hope to see him at the top of the list next year. We hope that he will not be like an "Old Boy" we heard of, who, after taking the 13th place, stayed on another year and took the 14th. May the School never show a worse result in the competition !

The Science and Arts Preliminary Examinations also had a considerable number of candidates from the School who have mostly passed successfully in the higher grade certificates. The candidates for this examination did not have to sit an extra Latin paper like those who entered for the Bursary Competition, but were let off with only the version being changed. The Medical Preliminary also claimed several candidates, who were mostly successful in passing.

The Football season, which is now over, has been a very fortunate one for the Grammar. As we said before, the first and larger half of the season has been very successful, as also has been the latter half. This latter part was not so successful as regards weather, and only four matches were played, a severe snowstorm preventing the other fixtures from taking place. Out of a total of 12 matches ,played the School has won 8 and lost 4. Altogether the team is to be congratulated on its past season. Hard work is sure to bring its reward, and as the team has worked hard it has gained its reward. The turn-out at practices this year has been exceedingly good and promises well for next year.

There is plenty of raw material in the School which, if handled well, will develop a very respectable team for next season, which, we hope, will be as successful as the past one.

Several of the last year's men will be available for next year which will be a great help to the team.

At one time we thought that the captain, W. W. Jameson, would be another year at School and take up the captaincy again, but, as he is leaving, another will have to be chosen in his place. Jameson has proved himself a very energetic and able captain of the team, and we hope to see him playing next season.

The departure of Football signalizes the return of Cricket, and now the willow reigns supreme. The various classes have been supplied with their sets, and now nothing is to be seen but a confused mass of wickets, bats, balls, and boys.

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With our present limited accommodation there is great danger of accidents as the distance between the classes is not very great. Plenty of bruised legs and several sore heads are the consequence. The School seems as enthusiastic over cricket as ever, and great rivalry has been entertained over the 1st XI. places. We are looking forward to the new field, and perhaps a coach, which will be a red letter day in the history of the School. Under the circumstances, exceedingly little encouragement is given to scientific cricket, and this cannot be remedied until the new field arrives.

The Captain of the 1st XI. for this year is A. S. Johnson, and C. A. P. Walker will act as Secretary. Johnson has played for the team for two years and consequently will know well how to captain it. A' good team is expected this year as several played for it last year. The XI., it must be confessed, has not made a very promising start, but, under the conditions, the severe beating which the 'Shire inflicted is no bad omen. An exceedingly strong team was put against us, and in it were several of the leading lights of the Aberdeenshire. The playing of Mr. Reid, who is home from abroad, was conspicuous. He compiled a magnificent 98 and was loudly cheered for his performance. The team has on a list of good fixtures, and we wish it all success.

The long looked-for Reference Library is now open, and is being well patronised by the VII. and VI. Classical, especially during the dinner hour. Tables covered with green baize have been put into it, and the room has a very pleasing aspect. Mr. Ward, the librarian, has compiled a catalogue, in which are found many good and valuable books.

All the books have not been obtained yet, but are gradually arriving, and soon not a gap will be seen. A good suggestion given us was that each boy, as he leaves School, should present a volume to the Library. We believe that this plan is in vogue in many schools in England. It is a very good idea, and, though very little for the donor, is always something for the Library. This would be a great encouragement to the Library, and would add annually a considerable number of books. We would commend this plan to those who are leaving at the end of this session to see if anything can be done in this way to improve the Library.

The Lending Library has improved as regards membership of late, but is not in the flourishing condition it ought to be. This is partly the fault of the School in not

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coming forward in greater numbers to support it. It looks ridiculous to see an occasional senior standing in a crowd of juniors waiting his turn to be served. It seems as if there were nothing but juvenile books in the Library. We can assure those who think that such is the case that there are more books for seniors than for juniors, and we hope that next year the senior side of the School will give considerably more support to this institution of the School.

The Literary and Debating Society has now finished a very prosperous and successful season. This year this Society has had an excellent syllabus, and the lectures and meetings have come off without a hitch. The lectures this year have been exceptionally good, and the debates have been well chosen and well argued. There seemed this year to be less argument about the " Debater," but what argument there was was very good. We hear that the Secretary is taking another year at the School, and we hope that he will again come forward and take up the reins and make the Society prosper, for none will be so able as he to conduct its affairs.

The debarment of the IV. Classical and Modern for the membership may have lowered that a little, but, perhaps, the V. may be the proper class to begin the cultivation of oratory.

We congratulate the " Debater " on its successful season, and hope the next may be as pleasant.

We regret to announce the death of James Balfour Rust, son of the city architect, Class Lower 3, who died at Hawkhill, Milltimber, February 22nd, 1902.

The influenza plague has once more visited Aberdeen, and this year has gathered more victims than ever. In the School, our Senior Science Master, Mr. M`Leod, caught the affection, and was absent several days. Coming out too soon after this, Mr. M‘Leod caught a chill, which has developed into pleurisy. We sympathise with him, and wish him a speedy return to good health.

The School has been having changes in its Botanical Department of late. There has been included in the grounds a piece to the west of the janitor's lodge, which has been added to the botanical garden. The bank of the Denburn has been improved and tidied up, and as the garden has been done up for the spring, everything looks in apple-pie order.

Perhaps the next improvement may be in the front field, which looks as if it needed a steam roller over it and a patch

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of turf laid out for the 1st XI's use. This latter improvement would cost money, but would save much in the end, as the 1st XI. would not need to rent a pitch at Mannofield every year for practice.

The interest in Gymnastics in the School is not abating under the popular teacher, Mr. Josephs, as we saw from th e gathering which assembled at our last Assault-at-Arms. Our gymnasts are now more able to practice in our new Gymnasium, with the result that better gymnastics are being produced. Mr Josephs varied the entertainment considerably from our usual run of assaults by introducing several new items, such as weight-lifting. We hope the interest in gymnastics will rise, as gymnastics are an essential part of a boy's training, and very profitable to his health.

Having been invited by Mr. Carmichael to visit his new workshop, we accepted his invitation, though not without some misgivings, for we were to tread on foreign ground, and consequently would be at a disadvantage. Our fears, however, were calmed when we were received by Mr. Carmichael, who conducted us through the workshop, and showed us the whole system. We are glad to see the improvement in this department of the School. There is a great change between the large airy room, now the workshop, and the small stuffy shed, which, we believe, is to be made into a cycle shed. The workshop is lit by electricity, and this power also drives the machinery. Much better work can be expected from the new workshop.

The Debating Society has excelled itself this year in its Finale, and received the reward that its efforts merited—a crowded house. The actors this year were again under the stage-managership of Mr. J. M. Morrison, who was assisted

by G. S. Russell, ex-president of the Society. The "Grammar" is getting quite famous for its Annual Concert and Dramatic Performance, and it is felt that either a move must be made to another hall in the city or the concert must be repeated, so great is the crush in our hall. The first part of the entertainment was the usual concert, which was far above the usual standard. The prominent musicians were Herr Pokorny and Mr. Riach.

The second half of the entertainment was a farce entitled, " Out of the Frying Pan," which was acted very well. A wish was expressed that the dramatic part might occupy the entire evening next year. This would be rather difficult,

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and, perhaps, the best kind of entertainment is the present one. Mr. Morrison, Mr. C. Davidson, G. S. Russell, and J. G. Danson are to be congratulated on the great success of the evening.

The Swimming Club has again started for the year, and is again captained by D. H. W. Williamson. The Club is doing well, and has as large a membership as last year, but it is not being so well supported as it ought to be, considering the number of fellows in the School. About 12i per cent. of the scholars join this Club, which is a very small percentage. The very successful season which the Club had last year should be a stimulus for the present year. The Sports will be held in the early part of June, and we hope will be well contested. One expected " swimmer " has left us before we have seen his powers, and has joined the " Medicals."

By the time the School reassembles after the summer holidays it is expected that electric light will have been installed into the building. This will be an immense improvement, and will save time and money. Perhaps the heating of the rooms may be done by electricity.

This is an appropriate time to appeal to all fellows leaving the School after the summer holidays to join the Former Pupils' Club. We think it is the proper thing for fellows to do, as it still holds them in close connection with their old school no matter where they are. The claim is a very strong one for those in town, for this Club is not content to be a mere cypher, but is now alive, and, with the help of Mr. A. W. Edwards and Mr. C. Davidson, is making rapid strides in the way of entertainments. Of late, the membership has increased by leaps and bounds, and looks now quite respectable. So, come now and swell it, great men of the future, and have your names written beside great men of the present!

The drills of the University Company (1st V.B G.H.) are held in November, and for boys who join the Company after entering College, it is preferable that they attend the November training ; but should they find it inconvenient to attend then, they may attend in September. Bajans matriculated at King's College will have an opportunity of attending their recruit training as Volunteers in the months of November and December. Any Grammar School boys

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residing in Aberdeen during September who anticipate that they will have an hour to spare of an afternoon for continuous training during the Session, may attend the training of the squad of recruits of the 1st V. B. Gordon Highlanders in September. Bajans who attend during the Session will find their fellow recruits of the same interest as themselves.

It is hoped that all Grammar School boys who go to College this year will make an effort to join the University Company. The training is excellent, and the authorities have endeavoured to arrange the times of the various drills to suit the students' convenience.

We publish in this issue a letter from Mr. S. Pope, jun., on the vexed subject of whether the 'Varsity or the F.P.'s have the first claim on boys who leave here to become students at the University, and in Mr. Pope's letter reference is made to a School Note on the subject in a former number of this Magazine, almost all the information in which was communicated to us. In criticism of this Note, we had in our last issue a letter from Mr. F. H. Welsh, Secretary of the 'Varsity R.F.C., and it is in reference to this and to some remarks made by Mr. Simpson at the Annual Meeting of the F.P. Club that Mr. Pope writes us. We have already expressed our opinions on the point, and, while on maturer reflection we feel somewhat disposed to modify them, we to a large extent sympathise with the F.P.'s, though, as has been pointed out to us, the difference between a pupil at this School and a student at the University, in connection with their respective XV.'s, is difficult to see.

The letter was, of course, shown to Air. Simpson before publication, and so his reply can also be read in this number; and we hope that we have heard the last of this very disagreeable business.

Several of the old " Parliamentary Night " warriors are to be found on the Committees of the candidates for the Lord Rectorship of our University. As is well-known, the candidates are Right Hon. H. H. Asquith, K.C., M.P., B.A., and Right Hon. C. T. Ritchie, M.P.

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The F.P. Club had a most successful and enjoyable season last winter, and we would strongly advise all who are leaving us now to interview Mr. A. W. Edwards—they will not find him very formidable.

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the Colonial Governors and Premiers who will attend the Coronation as Royal guests, Sir William MacGregor, K.C.M.G., Governor of Lagos, will represent the island of St. Helena, together with the West African Colonies and Protectorates.

AMONGST

At the Royal Academy a water-colour by David West, Lossiemouth, has got a good position, whilst an oil-painting by Campbell Smith—the Conversion of St. Hubert— has been hung on the line. This is the second year in succession that our youthful F.P. Smith has scored this success. He sold his last year's picture for 100 guineas.

He is also flatteringly mentioned in the book on preAmongst Raphaelite painters published by Messrs. Bell. those invited to the Banquet we noticed the names of Mr. A. M. Ogston of Ardoe and Mr. James Ogston of Kildrummy.

In the merit list of Edinburgh University law classes, A. Morrice Mackay, M.A. Aberd. and B.A. Cantab., formerly Captain of the cricket XI., was first in conveyancing ; and at the recent examination of the Institution of Civil Engineers, London, Mr. James Rennie Greig, successfully passed as an Associate Member.

A very interesting ceremony took place at Perth, West Australia, when Captain J. C. Castilla, of the 2nd West Australian Contingent, was presented with the Distinguished Service Order for his services in South Africa.

Captain Castilla is a cousin of the present proprietor of Craigiebuckler. The presentation was made by Sir Arthur Lawley, the Governor of West Australia, at Government House, in presence of a large gathering of the chief officials of the colony. Sir Arthur Lawley expressed his regret

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that he had been unable to make the presentation in a more public way, but Captain Castilla was on the point of again leaving for South Africa. They were all proud of the honour that had been won by Captain Castilla, because the achievement reflected credit not only on the recipient but also on the whole colony, and especially on the corps to which he belongA.. Sir Arthur expressed the hope that Captain Castilla would be long spared to wear the Order, and that he would have health and strength to carry out his duties as Inspecting-Major in the Transvaal Constabulary.

By the time this is in the hands of our readers an interesting presentation will have been made to Mr. Alfred W. Edwards, the very energetic secretary of the F.P. Club.

As he is about to be married, it was thought that the Club might show him some slight appreciation of his services by a present. A considerable sum has already been collected, but there is still time for more subscriptions limited to half-a-crown. Unfortunately, owing to the printer's demands, we cannot stop the press to give an account of the presentation.

We regret to announce the death of one of our most distinguished Old Boys, the Rev. Professor A. B. Davidson, of New College, Edinburgh. He was the most distinguished Hebrew scholar in Britain, and had a worldwide reputation. Born in humble circumstances at Kirkhill, Ellon, he managed through his own efforts to put himself to College. When quite a boy he was of a most studious disposition, always having a book with him when he was out herding cattle on the rather bleak slopes of Ellon. Through sheer hard work he was master of French, German, and Italian before he was twenty-five. It would be an impertinence on our part to criticise his work.

Suffice it to say, that he was LL.D or D.D. of Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Cambridge. One of the most modest of men, he declined the Moderatorship of the Free Church Assembly when it was offered to him.

Strange coincidence : one famous Old Boy is succeeded by another, for Professor James A. Paterson., D.D., now succeeds to the chair of Hebrew and Old Testament Literature in the New College, Edinburgh, which he has held jointly with the late Professor A. B. Davidson since

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the union of the Churches. Professor Paterson, says " Saint Andrew," is a son of the late Rev. A. Paterson, of Dairy, and a nephew of the late Rev. James Paterson, of Midmar. He studied at the Grammar School and University of Aberdeen, earning great distinction in all his classes. At the university there was a constant struggle between him and Professor Chrystal, another F.P., of Edinburgh, for the premier place, and most of the honours were divided between them. Dr. Paterson, like Dr. Davidson, never held a pastorate, but was appointed to the Hebrew chair in the U.P. Hall in Edinburgh.

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We regret to announce the death of the Very Rev. Dean Ferguson of Moray and Ross. Born in 1829 at New Craig, Aberdeenshire, he entered school in October, 1841, leaving in October, 1844, proceeding to the University, where he graduated M.A. in 1848. He was ordained Deacon in 1850, and at the age of 21 served his three years' diaconate at Montrose, under the Rev. T. C. Southey.

On his ordination to the priesthood, he was instituted to the incumbency of Elgin, a position which he held for 49 years. He always took keen interest in all departments of church work, being Synod clerk of the diocese in 1876, and diocesan inspector of schools in 1878. In 1885 he was appointed Dean of the. Diocese by the late Primus, and served upon the committee appointed to draw up the provisional constitution of the Representative Church Council in 1876.

We remember during a conversation we had with him a few years ago, what an interest he had in his old school.

Indeed we believe that he had promised an article for the Magazine.

Another Episcopal dignitary, the Venerable Archdeacon Ross, D.D., of Armidale, New South Wales, has had, owing to failing eyesight, to place his resignation in the hands of his bishop. A South Wales newspaper, in a eulogistic account of him, tells us that he was examining chaplain to Bishop Turner and one of the chaplains of Bishop Green. He has been vicar of Armidale far 23 years. The whole diocese will follow him into his retirement with affectionate good wishes and gratitude.

Our School seems to be a nursery of Church dignitaries, for, writing at random, our thoughts light on the Rev.

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Oanon Low of Cumbrae, author of " Reuben Dean " and other works, in which occur sketches of our School life.

Then we have the late Dean Nicholson, Dundee, and as the highest step in the hierarchy we have the Most Reverend the Archbishop of Rupertsland and Primate of all Canada, Dr. Machray.

But not alone in the Episcopal Church do our dignitaries abound. In a newspaper received from New Zealand we find that the Rev. James Gibb has been elected Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, as well as Moderator of the Synod of Otago. He entered School in 1871. Let us also remind our readers that the retiring Moderator of the Church of Scotland, the Right Rev. Dr. Mitchell of Suuth Leith, is ar, F.P. So is another late Moderator—Rev. Dr. Mair. In the same newspaper we find that another Old Boy, the Rev. P. B. Fraser, M.A., has been made Chairman of the Education Board of Otago.

He was educated at Glasgow High School, Aberdeen Grammar School and University. He travelled a good deal, and then settled in New Zealand.

The death took place at Edinburgh on the 10th inst. of Lieutenant-Colonel W. Moir, A.M., M.B., BrigadeSurgeon, I.M.S. (retired). Lieutenant-Colonel Moir was educated at the Grammar School and King's College and University, Aberdeen, and had a very successful career.

He entered the Indian Medical Service in January, 1860, as assistant-surgeon, and was in due course promoted through the grades of surgeon and surgeon-major to that of brigade-surgeon, to which he was gazetted in April, 1888.

He retired from the service in 1891 under the age limit.

He leaves a widow, one son, and five daughters.

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As Classfellows at the Grammar in 1846 he had Dr. Gray, Inspector-General of Prisons for the Punjaub, now residing in Queen's Road. There were also the late Mr. C. Robertson of the Indian Civil Service, afterwards Secretary to the Government of the North-West Provinces.

Another classfellow was Dr. W. Walker, I.M.S., SurgeonGeneral for the Government of India. Dr. Bruce of Dingwall was another, and so was the Rev. Dr. Gunn of Dollar.

Lieut. A. K. Robb, of the Durham Light Infantry, has been gazetted Captain.

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Professor W. L. Davidson is one of the two Aberdeen contributors to the new edition of the" Encyclopaedia Britannica."

The Rev. A. J. Campbell, B.A. Cantab., was appointed minister of Lerwick, Shetland, in January, 1902.

We have to record the death of Mr. Geo. Ironside, M.A. He was successively headmaster of Kininmouth, Blackburn (England), and Greenhills, Fauldhouse. He was the author of " Rudimenta Analytica: a new method of teaching Latin." He was highly esteemed.

Mr. W. A. Malcolm, Manager of the Aberdeen Steam Navigation Company, has also died at the age of 53.

Professor Alex. Ogston is on the Commission for Physical Education in Scotland. The Rector has been in London lately giving evidence before the Commission. So in a short time we shall have our cadet corps here just as they have at, say, Glasgow High School.

The Under-Secretary of State for India, through MajorGeneral Stedman, Military Secretary, has caused to be specially prepared and given over to Rev. James Smith, St. George's-in-the-West, Aberdeen, as next-of-kin, the medal for the Indian Mutiny which would have been bestowed on his uncle, Lieutenant John Chalmers, M.A., of the 24th Punjab Infantry, and latterly of the 39th Bengal Native Infantry. He attended the Aberdeen Grammar School, of which he was " dux," and at the close of his attendance at Marischal College he gained, at the early age of 18, a cadetship in the East India Company's service, given to the most distinguished student of the year by Colonel Sykes, then. M.P. for Aberdeen. He went out to India as an ensign. On the outbreak of the Mutiny, his regiment joined the mutineers at Leia, and though warned of danger he refused to leave his post. Next morning he was shot through the right wrist by a mutineer from a tree while trying to quell the revolt. After serving at Attock as assistant commissioner, he returned to Aberdeen an invalid, and finally died there on 10th August, 1861, aged only 24 years, and was buried in the old family grave in St. Nicholas Churchyard. His brother Samuel, who was in the Royal Engineers, died, aged 25 years, at Calcutta, shortly after the siege of Delhi, in which he took part. Another brother, William, was a surgeon in the 1st

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Royals and afterwards in the 17th Regiment. After serving in India, he died in 1863, aged 28 years, and was buried in Aberdeen. A fourth brother, Alexander Wallace, was a chief engineer in the Royal Navy, in which he served at the blockade of the Baltic during the Crimean. War, and in the Chinese War at the siege of Canton in 1857.

For these actions he was awarded two medals, with a special clasp for Canton. He died in 1868, aged 37 years, at Aberdeen. The swords and medals of these officers are now in the possession of Rev. Mr. Smith. It may be added that, when Mr. Disraeli was Prime Minister, he caused a special grant of money to be given to the mother of these four sons, who had so well served their country.

All the four, we are proud to say, are Old Boys. What an honourable incitement to the School if we had only the swords and medals hung up in our•Valhalla!

Amongst those honoured at Aberdeen University lately, we notice that the Rev. James Allan, Minister of Marnoch, received the degree of D.D. The Rev. William Macgregor, who graduated in 1857 with triple honours—First-class in Classics and Mathematics and Second-class in Philosophy—received the D.D. degree also. He gained the Hutton prize, which is awarded to the most distinguished magistrand in the examinations for honours in philosophy. He was an equally distinguished divinity student at the Free Church College, and since 1864 he has been a successful missionary in connection with the English Presbyterian Church Mission at Amoy, China. For a number of years he has held the important post of Principal of the Theological College at Amoy, and is also Lecturer on Dogmatics and New Testament Exegesis at the same college. He is a very distinguished Chinese scholar, and is the author of an exposition of Isaiah in Chinese and a revision of Carstairs Douglas's Chinese Dictionary. He is also the author of a system of arithmetic in Chinese.

At the same time Mr. John Arbuthnott Trail, M.A., LL.B. Edin., W.S., received the degree of LL.D. He graduated M.A., with honours in Classics and Natural Science, at Aberdeen University in 1866. He afterwards studied law in Edinburgh, where he graduated LL.B. Dr. Trail, who is a well-known W.S. in Edinburgh, is a recognised authority on conveyancing and a distinguished writer

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on legal topics. He was principal editor of the " Juridical Styles," published at the instance of the Juridical Society, Dr. Trail being the convener of the committee charged with the production of the work, which is recognised by all lawyers as the leading style book in conveyancing.

For many years Dr. Trail has taken a prominent part in educational and missionary enterprise in connection with the Church of Scotland, and he is one of the best known men in Edinburgh legal circles.

•

Mr. John Gray has been made sub-officer in the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. This honour is highly esteemed among the cadets.

T. W. Falconer (F.P.) has been elected Secretary to the University Boating Club.

James Moir, M.A., B.Sc., was at the last graduation ceremony capped D.Sc., so we have now Drs. James Moir, sen. and jun. We believe that there will shortly be a third Dr. Moir in the same family, but in the meantime would extend our most cordial congratulations to our esteemed ex-Rector and Dr. James, jun., on this present honour.

THE BURSARY COMPETITION. AT the conclusion of the article in the Magazine on last year's Bursary Competition, utterance was given to the pious wish that the Classical VI. might flourish, and, judging from the recently announced results of this year's Competition, there can be no doubt that the wish has been fulfilled. Not since 1897, when the School obtained five places out of the first eight, and these five included the first, second, third, and fourth in the list, have the results been so satisfactory. The remark made in the article on this year's Bursary List in Alma Mate). p,oes far towards explaining the moderate results that were attained by the School after 1897, viz., that after a School has taken a leading position, it is only in the nature of things that a less successful year, or even a less successful period of years, should be the result. This year the School has obtained twenty-six places in the list, as compared with eighteen last year. It may be supposed by some that this increase is due to the fact that more candidates came forward, but the truth is that this year the number of competitors from

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the School was three less than last year. The subjoined table gives a comparison of the results in the last six competitions :In the first 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 >, 80 90 91

-

-

-

.

-

1897. 1898. 1899. 1900. 1801.

5 1 1 3 1 3 5 5 3 5 4 9 4 6 7 10 5 9 8 6 11 9 10 11 10 14 12 13 14 12 16 17 17 12 17 19 17 14 18 17 22 18 18 23 19

1902.

5 8 11 13 13 16 21 23 26

From these figures it will be observed that the number in each decade this year is greater, except in one case, than in the corresponding decade during any of the past five years.

This one case has already been referred to.

The following list shows the places taken by the School, and the total marks made out of a possible maximum of 1800 :4. Andrew R. Williamson 5. George E. Hay 7. Hugh S. Robertson 9. Peter Webster 10. James M. Milne 16. Ian A. K. Burnett 17. William W. Jameson 20. Cecil B. Simpson 26. William WM. Anderson H. Mair 28. George 30. Charles E. Garland 35. Alexander Bain _ 36. John Urquhart 52. William J. Cruickshank 53. Alexander J. Munro 55. Norman J. J. Walker 61. David S. Cramond 62. David B. Nicol .

64. James A. Morrison 65. John D. Fiddes 66. Herbert H. E. Wiseman 72. William L. M. Grant 75. Douglas G. Robb 81. Edward W. Barry 85. Charles A. Masson 87. John A. Lillie

.

-

1445.

1428.

1393.

1383.

1381.

1339.

1333.

1308.

1274.

1255.

1246.

-

-

.

-

.

.

-

.

-

1123 21711 1131.

1129.

1127.

1096.

1092.

1083.

1065.

1063.

1015.

999.

966.

932.

927.

Of the foregoing twenty-six places, four have been taken by candidates from the Classical VI., namely, the 16th, 30th, 66th, and 81st. Last year the places taken by those who entered for the first time were the 40th, 43rd, 48th, 87th, and 88th. It will be seen that this year's results of the second highest class in the School are considerably better than those of last year, which at the time were considered very respectable. Only once in recent years, in 1894, has a candidate

•

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from the School at his first attempt succeeded in gaining a higher place than that taken by Ian A. K. Burnett, arid on that occasion the candidate was only one place higher, being 15th.

In former years it has been the custom of the Magazine to compare the School results with those of Gordon's College, which is the only town school with which a comparison can be made. This year it is intended to compare the School— in part, at least—with the country schools, seeing that these now take so prominent a position in the Competition. The number of candidates from the School and from. Gordon's College in the published order of merit is this year the same, but in the case of Gordon's College five of the number have attended another school in the course of the last two years, while as regards the Grammar School one only does not exclusively belong to it. An examination of the dates when our candidates entered the School reveals the fact that two came in 1892, one in 1893, two in 1894, four in 1895, 1896, and 1898, three in 1899, five in 1900, and one in 1901. The average number of years during which the candidates have attend ed the5chool is rather over five, which shows that we turn out an article home-made, not merely home-finished or top-dressed.

Last year, in order to compare the results of the Grammar School and Gordon's College, a table was given showing the average marks made in the various subjects by the candidates from each in the first 50 on the list. This year, however, a different method has been adopted, as the Grammar School has no places between 36th and 50th, but Gordon's College has a considerable number, and owing to this fact its averages would have been pulled down, while those of the Grammar School remained the same for the first 50 as for the first 40.

A fairer way has been taken for obtaining the true position of the schools. In the annexed table the averages are those of the first twelve candidates from the Grammar School and Gordon's College, and an interesting set of figures has been added giving the averages of the first twelve male candidates from the country schools :— Grammar School Gordon's College Country Schools -

-

Total.

Greek. French.

Latin.

English. Maths.

Max. 400. Max. 400. Max. 400. Max. 400. Max. 200. Max. 1800.

320.3 311.5 299.5

255 270.5 294

306.1 295 5 308.7

318.5 296 303.4

129.4 131.3 125.4

1334.6 1303.3 13301

In Dynamics and German no comparison can be made.

In the former the Grammar School had four candidates, but Gordon's College had only one. The average of the first three School candidates in the subject is 166.6. It is a curious fact that neither the Grammar School nor Gordon's

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College had any candidate who took German. It is almost needless to make any comment on the above figures, as they speak for themselves. It is only necessary to point out that, apart from the individual subjects, the Grammar School is, in the average total, appreciably better than the country schools and conspicuously superior to Gordon's College.

The two highest marks in each subjects scored by candidates from the School are :— English—A. R. Williamson, 357 ; W. W. Jameson, 343.

Mathematscs—H. S. Robertson, 363 ; Peter Webster, 343.

Latin—G. E. Hay, 337 ; C. B. Simpson, 335.

Greek—G. E. Hay, 356 ; J. M. Milne, 355.

French—G. E. Hay, 155 ; W. M'M. Anderson, 146.

Dynamics—H. S. Robertson, 178 ; John Urquhart, 172.

In conclusion, it will not be out of place to quote part of the Rector's speech, in which he congratulated and thanked those on the Bursary List, and the staff which had led them on to success :—" Unless there is good work all through, we cannot expect to get good final results. We try not to sacrifice the School for a few pupils. We have a duty to make the best of the School for all. In this respect the general high average of our 26 candidates gives us more pleasure than any single success of an individual, and the average is considerably better this year than it was five years ago, when four of our boys headed the list."

"REMEMBER THE DAYS OF OLD !"-III. THE OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL IN THE ' EARLY FORTIES.' ALAS ! my recollections must go much further back

than those of Sir James Westland, or of my cousin, Mr. John Johnston of Milwaukee, for I entered the School in October, 1839, under nine years of age. My previous education was got at Mr. James Ledingham's Academy in Correction Wynd, where I learned chiefly reading and writing, with a little English grammar. Schooling was a simple matter in those days. My most vivid recollection of that Academy is connected with the small statuettes cut by a penknife out of a bit of thick slate-pencil by one of the young Duthies, who had seen figureheads carved in his father's shipbuilding yard. These little figures were, I still feel sure, very pretty, and I can recall "Napoleon in his cocked hat, tight breeches, and long boots," while a " Venus de Medici " gave me my first idea of classic sculpture. Do any of these fragments still exist ? In them, certainly, was a feeling for the sculptor's art.

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By good fortune I entered the Grammar School under the mastership of Mr James Ogilvie, a young man who ten years before had been First Bursar at Marischal College, and who, in 1837, was appointed interim master of the Grammar School in place of Mr. Forbes. A tall, gaunt man, sallow and saturnine, with prominent nose and black beady eyes, lethargic and slow to move, was "Poker" Ogilvie. But he taught Latin well, and introduced some methods which I doubt whether the I:ector knew about, such as the use of Valpy's Latin dialogues for conversation in the Second Class. It was like going back to the old Erasmian system and had its advantages, for we boys really came to see that Cornelius Nepos and Caesar, had not been invented simply to torture us for some discipline. We had enough of this sort of punishment in the cheerful task of committing Melvin's Rules most slavishly to memory.

What boy in after life has not shuddered with horror as he recalls :-Hic vultur, vermis, phoenix, thrips, turtur, oryxque, Mus, lepus, et Coccyx, piscis, bombyx que salar, gryps, Cenchris pro colubro, mugil, dorx, mugilis et seps, Cosais, glis, echineis.—At hzec, halex et aedon, &c., And all this to tell us that the genders of certain ' Epicene' nouns were in some cases masculine and in others feminine.

Did any of us know, or care, what an Epicene noun was, and have any of us since in wide reading of Latin authors once met with many of these " brute animals " (as the note calls them) ? These rules were driven into us before we knew the difference between a dactyl and a spondee, or knew anything of the swing of a hexameter, and accordingly we recited the first rule— 0mne marem signans nomen decet ewe virile.

We could not even translate the line. What a relief it was to us when the string of nouns stopped and the verse ended with " et plurima, porro." Then we knew that our troubles were ended.

It is a wonder that intelligence was not killed and scholarship stunted by such a system of teaching. I may safely say that at least one of the three years of our junior course might have been spared for English, with great benefit even to our training in Latin, to say nothing of our general education, which was absolutely nil, except for some scraps of history and text-book geography.

Ogilvie was too lazy to use the tawse or cane except under great provocation, or rather from loss of temper.

His favourite punishment for a boy in ' the top faction'

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was, even for a whisper, to isolate him from the work of the class, and to put him 'to a seat by himself' for hours, perhaps for days. There we learned, in solitary confinement, to plait horsehair fishing lines by means of quills—a useful accomplishment—and to catch innumerable flies in the faroff window, and put them ' by themselves' in paper boxes.

After many requests to be allowed to return to our place in the class, permission was given to go to the foot, and to work our way up. At times, when the punishment seemed greater than the offence, resistance was forcibly made against ejection, and then came a fight between master and boy, to the detriment of clothes and temper. A small boy with his feet planted against the bench was a stiff obstacle to be pulled out even by a giant. But when we came to the Third Class, a better understanding took place between teacher and pupil and now Ogilvie shone to . advantage.

To prepare us for Dr. Melvin Ogilvie used many of the Doctor's old versions. These he read out sentence by sentence, requiring us to translate into Latin viva voce, telling us any difficult word and explaining our errors on the spur of the moment. He thus secured alertness in composing and made the exercise fresh and living. He carried this to such a fine point that, at the end of the third year, he was so confident as to results that he requested that two of us should try the Bursary Competition at Marischal College.

One of us succeeded in gaining the seventh bursary of that year under the age of twelve, but was wisely kept at school for other two years, when the first bursary fell to him.

Strange to say, Ogilvie never attained the position of Master in the School. Even in 1843 he was appointed only as Under Master, in place of Mr. Watt, deceased. In 1844, he resigned his post, having been appointed by the Church of Scotland to take the place of the great Alexander Duff as head of the Educational Institution in Calcutta after the Disruption. Perhaps we did not understand his character fully, but to us boys it seemed a strange appointment that this fine Latin scholar but somewhat lethargic man should be sent to succeed the fervid and fervent missionary.

Ogilvie laboured for twenty-five years in Calcutta, never taking a furlough. Towards the end of his life he is said to have been a disappointed man, though he did excellent work and was much respected, receiving the degree of D.D. from the University of Aberdeen in 1867. He died in Penang in 1871.

Before entering the Rector's classroom, let us look at the environment of the School. There was no playground, and of course no games in the modern sense. Golf was

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unknown to us youngsters, and cricket and football were yet a long way off. The small quadrangle in front of the modest one-storied building was mostly paved with cobblestones, which made a good playground for the game of `Buttons'—an excellent game, like `pitch and toss '— w hich disappeared when gentlemen ceased to wear brass buttons on their coats. ` Marbles,' of course, were in vogue wherever a hard, flat surface could be found for the superb game of `the ring.' Leap frog,' with its extension to ' foot and a-half,' was a favourite game, the latter played chiefly in the public school for the display of long leaps over a boy's back, a risky game for the boy. ` Burry on the factions' was also carried on in the great school, a dangerous sport, as running at full speed on the top of the benches frequently led to serious falls. But the streets were our larger playground. ` Key-how ' and ` Smuggle the gig' (a sort of `hare and hounds'), made us acquainted with every hiding place in the Mutton Brae, the Denburn, the far off Patagonian Court and the Gaelic Lane, while the traditional snowball and stone fights with the `apprentices' and `Sillerton Boys' gave abundant room for warlike tendencies.

But a few minutes before the school hour there is a pause in all games. A large-framed man with round shoulders, dressed in black, is seen approaching the gate.

With head bent forward, and treading lightly on his toes, he advances over the flagstones towards the steps leading to the public school. Even the youngest are hushed to silence as he passes through the crowd. Mark his sallow face, deeply scarred by small-pox, his keen black eye and pursed-up thin lips, the corners of his mouth inclining to a. gentle smile or depressed to sternness. We are all conscious that a strong man is by us—the great scholar, Dr. James Melvin, " Grim Pluto." Slowly he takes his place in front of the clock in the public school, draws out his gold hunting watch, compares it with the clock, says a few words to the assembled under-masters and then bows to them, after which ceremony each master retires to his own class-room. A short prayer, with some phrases frequently repeated, as : " Where Thy mercies are clean gone for ever," and work begins.

What accuracy was required I No paraphrasing allowed, no evading a difficulty. Without doubt, our translation from Latin into English was stiff ; nay, sometimes wooden, and certainly the spirit and beauty of a passage were to us of secondary importance. In such a system of minute detail and verbal criticism, free copious reading was, impossible, and the enjoyment of Horace or Vergil was not manifest in us. Hence we should have dreaded an ` unseen '

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passage from a Latin author far more than a `Version.'

We had no ease in our reading, no idea of style. We heard constantly of Cicero, but we never read any of his work.

My copy of ' Buchanan's Psalms' bears the order of the words dictated to us by the good Doctor for preparation at home en the Saturday evening. Fancy this, after four years wholly given to the study of Latin, when we should have been able to read the Psalms with some freedom for our pleasure on the Sunday.

But it was in analysis and parsing, in the opening up of the various meanings of a verb or noun and their relation to each other, in ' phrases' and ' idioms,' that Melvin excelled.

We had no other dictionary than the miserable `Ainsworth' and the Doctor had to clothe its dry bones with living flesh. We made copious notes and indexed our manuscript books so that we might be able to find the examples when wanted. Labour of this sort would be misplaced nowadays. Better Lexicons and ampler notes in text books set boys free from this drudgery and give a better chance of enjoying the spirit of an author. What a god-send, for instance, both to teachers and pupils is Dr. Robert Ogilvie's ' Horse Latina3 ' with its fine distinctions and general principles!

But Melvin was two generations in advance of his time and did a service to Latin scholarship in Scotland which cannot be over-estimated. The ' Phrase and Idiom Books' compiled by his best pupils have circulated over the North of Scotland, forming the basis of much instruction in regard to syntax. But his living influence was the dominant feature of his class. His personality was tremendous. To be under him was an education in itself, for he moulded the accurate habits of thousands of boys. ' The Version' was of course the main feature of his class. It was carefully constructed to bring out our knowledge (or ignorance) of `the indirect speech,' the interrogative put indefinately,' and all the niceties of sent qui, quominus, quin„ and so forth. So earnest was he that it seemed to give him positive pain when a good pupil made some horrid ' maxie,' while, on the other hand, it gave him pleasure to write ' sine errors' and still more when he could add, in his beautiful penmanship, et elegantissime at the bottom of a version. His jibes were severe and sarcastic, but the culprit felt that they were deserved. Carelessness and inattention he could not abide, but he dealt lightly with studious mediocrity. That he had favourites is true, but they were the bright boys whose work pleased him and whose errors he grieved over. I can recall no instance of

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favour for the sons of the rich, if the boys were content tosit habitually near the foot of the class. He had a liking for a boy who would privately defend some alleged error in his version. I remember once writing humanum genus instead of genus humanum—and this was to he marked as an error. Between school hours I hunted up some defence and found it in Sallust, " Well, I'll let you off this time, but you must take for your guide Cicero rather than Sallust," was his reply. Before the holidays he used to review the work of the previous quarter and would tell us of the number of sine errors versions he had got from former classes. In an evil moment I whispered to my neighbour that this had been the golden age. whereupon he laughed, and I was ordered to speak to the Doctor at the end of the hour. " I want to know what you said to Archibald Simpson."

Sheepishly I answered that it was nothing at all worth repeating. " Well," said the Doctor, taking a big pinch of snuff out of his beautiful Scotch mull, "you are not to leave this spot till you tell me what it was." So I told the truth, and got a great knock on my ribs from his elbow and the reply, with a pleased smile. " Well,it was the golden age." Beneath that stern exterior there beat a manly, loving heart, restrained however in its manifestation, as was the bearing of teachers to pupils in those days. He was a Roman of the Romans, Ultimus Romanorum, I should say, and one can easily picture him in the company of Cicero and of Livy, of Vergil and of Horace, the authors whom he loved so well.

He liked the old Scottish tongue and rolled out with gusto on rare occasions the fine verse attributed to Allan Ramsay, " There I saw Sisyphus wi' muckle was Birsin' a big stane up a heich heich brae, Tryin' to get it up abeen the knowe Wi' baith his han's and baith his feet. Bit wow Fan it's maist deen, back in an awfu' dird Doon stots the stane and thumps upo' the yird."

Melvin was not a Grecian ; but he taught the Greek Grammar well, as he taught everything. We used a wretched Anton's Greek Grammar—the same American Anton whose edition of Horace we generally used and whose notes Melvin inveighed against bitterly for their inaccuracy. The only Greek we read was a few chapters of St. John's Gospel.

This simple statement gives the measure of the difference between those past days and modern times as to Greek.

Melvin was a licentiate of the Church of Scotland, and after the Disruption, when every pulpit in the city was bereft of its minister, he used to take his share in supplyin q,

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the void. A favourite text was: " For it is appointed to all men once to die, and after death the judgment," which gave him an opportunity of expatiating with all his force on the difference between a good life and a bad one. In his holidays, he would spend some time at various country manses, and there, I am told, he was frequently facetious in his Latin jokes.

All honour to his memory! A strong personality, a splendid example of the old grammarian, he laid the foundations for a wider and fuller scholarship in after years and under other influences. To me he represents the School of my time.

Book plates, ex libris, are all the fashion now-a-days, and a very pretty fashion it is, to connect our books with our own individuality. Doubtless, many a Grammar School boy now has his favourite books marked by some quaint device. We had nothing exactly of this sort in my early school days, but we were rather in advance of the movement, for our books bore our names and attributes in the manner of the Comic Latin Grammar. The right of property was strenuously maintained, as in Hic Tiber est mew, and that I will show, Si aliquis rapit, I'll give him a blow, Per Jovem, per bellum, I swear I will fell 'im, And into his ventrern I'll rap my scalpellum, And all for the sake of this little libellum.

Or in Hic liber est mews, deny it who can, Jacobi Thoracic Smith, a right honest man, In Aberdcmia he's to be found, Si non moriatur—and laid in the ground.

When the name could be written by some clever penman in large German text like that of a diploma, and a more or less fanciful portrait of the owner could be added, a high level was reached. Perfection was attained when a caricature of the teacher found a place in some corner.

Our friendships were close and personal, for the classroom was our Cosmos. These ties lasted through life, and we can look back to these days with pleasure. If the education was absurdly one-sided, and the methods ludicrously imperfect, these were the faults of the time, handed down from former generations. But even in my early days reformers were beginning to throw a searching criticism on an outworn system which could not bear the light of day and was about to expire. Of James Melvin, its most perfect exponent and my honoured master, it may truly be said that he was "felix opportunitate mortis."

JOHN FORBES WHITE.

In Memoriam.

105

Jii fIfcinoriain, JAMES MOIR, LL.D., D.Litt., Formerly Rector of Aberdeen Grammar School.

Died May 16th, 1902.

" The Lord shall give thee rest from thy sorrow."

DR. MOIR is dead ; and though we say the words and repeat them many times, we somehow fail to realise that our " guide, philosopher, and friend " is gone for ever, and that the genial, kindhearted << oOKEL MOC " as we used so affectionately to call him, can never more greet us in his old, hearty fashion; or take our hand in his own warm and friendly grip. To the University, to the Grammar School that he loved so well, to his private friends and they were many— above all, to his two sons, both of whom were educated here, the Doctor's death brings great sorrow, and none can, ever fill the blank that it has caused.

Since the days of the great Melvin, there has probably never been in the " politics " of our SchoolRepublic such a great figure as Dr. Moir. To most of those who read this article he is probably but a name ; to us who write it he was a reality, a valued friend whose farewell words just before he left town—as we now know, for the last time—are still ringing in our ears. As a master, Dr. Moir was always popular with his pupils to the verge of idolatry. One had but to attend one of the annual Prize Distributions to note how, at the sight of the familiar figure in the red and blue LL.D. robes, every Grammar boy would yell himself hoarse. Even those who had never known

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• •

him as a master, who were too far down the School to have been in his class, can remember how he would walk up to some little fellow and, gently pulling his ear, ask his name, and talk to him as if it had been his own son. While in the enjoyment of his health, his teaching was most thorough and complete; he trusted his pupils to be honourable in their dealings with him, but woe betide the cribber, the sneak, or the hypocrite, if the Doctor found him out. When necessary, he could administer a rebuke that would cut like a lash, and did not scruple to do so. He knew boys and boy-nature as he knew the Classics— and one cannot say more than. that—and when he discovered that any boy was unworthy of the trust he reposed in him, that boy quickly found it out, and usually sought to win his way to favour once more by repentance and amendment. He loved boys too : there are many at the School to-day who can remember how last year, though lame, and though the ground was covered with ice and very slippery, he nevertheless set out on a dark, winter evening and hobbled down to lecture on Greece to the Literary and Debating Society, which he founded. The pleasure which that lecture gave him he formally expressed at the end, in reply to the vote of thanks which, as President, it was our pleasant duty to propose to him, but it was far more eloquent than that to hear him exclaim, as he afterwards did with emotion—" Ah, it was good to see the boys again. ! " " The boys " were the one thing that he regretted ; he wished to return to them, longed to see them again, and any of his old pupils who went to call on him, received a welcome that proved that they were not forgotten. With all his boys he was on terms of friendship ; the stupid boy he would never despise, and the clever boy he would never unduly exalt ; and the natural result was that his class was like a happy family. It is characteristic of the man that his favourite story was not of some great thrashing that he had administered, nor of some academic triumph that he or a pupil had gained, but of an apology which he had made to a boy whose feelings he had hurt by some jocular " dig" which had been taken too seriously. There are men

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107

whose prim demeanour, solemn face, and dignified strut leave one wondering if they could ever have been real boys, and their total lack of sympathy with boys' pranks and failings inclines one to answer the question in the negative. Very different was James Moir : many were the stories he told of his schooldays and his old " dominie," Mr. Smith ; and the secret of his popularity, in our opinion, was that his boys felt that there was a man who had been a boy himself, who had felt exactly as they felt, and who, therefore, understood them thoroughly. Some of his pupils have risen to fame, many to distinction, and it was with a proud and happy voice that he would say of . such, " He was a pupil of mine while I was in Dr. Moir's achievements in the world of literature and knowledge generally are too well known to need much mention here. Suffice it to say that he entered the University as Seventh Bursar in 1865, and graduated with First Class Honours in Classical Literature in 1869. In 1870 he was Assistant to the late Principal Sir William Geddes, at that time Professor of Greek, and, after holding appointments in Banff, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, he came to the Grammar School as Rector in 1881. At the somewhat early age of forty-five the University conferred on him the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws, and in 1898, for his edition of Blind Harry's " Schir William Wallace "—which Professor Skeat praised very highly indeed—he won the degree of Doctor of Letters ; and up to the present moment he is the only candidate that has obtained it from this niversity.

To his private friends he was ever open, frank, and genial. If he liked or disliked a person he did not disguise his feelings : he was no hypocrite ; perhaps, if he had been, his life would have been less unhappy.

To say that he was " good company " is to express the fact very mildly: with his fund of good stories, and his power of telling them, it was impossible to be dull with him, until his sorrows took the old fire from his eye and the old, gay ring from his voice, and left him more of a listener than a talker. Nor was he a mere teller of stories ; on Greek or Roman Antiquities, on

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Elphinstone, Dunbar, Wallace, Byron, or their times, he could and did discourse in a way that held one enthralled ; but, more frequently than on such topics as these, he would bring out reminiscences of his own, and would " fight his battles over again," telling of his boyhood, his college days, and his later life ; but the field to which he most often went was the place he loved so well—our own Grammar School. For that School he never lost his interest, and only recently, after the announcement of the Bursary Competition results, he spoke very highly of the high places it had taken, mentioning with pleasure, among other things, the success which had crowned the labours of his friend and successor in the Classical Mastership—Mr. Middleton. No one who was himself of a straightforward, honourable disposition could help liking Dr. Moir. There were, of course, in his case, as in the case of most men, those whose enmity contributed to his unhappiness ; but most were content to re-echo the words of a poet who wrote in this Magazine a year or two ago— " Nor pass we worthy Moir whose claims unique In modern letters and in classic lore Our Alma Mater twice has recognised ; A man of warmest heart, beloved and straight, Though not without a dash of Celtic fire."

Perforce we must end where we began, by saying that James Moir is dead, and that the world is the poorer by one honest, loving soul. We returned a few days ago from seeing his remains as they lay in death, his features more peaceful than they ever were in life.

All the furrows that sorrow's plough had made, the Reaper had gently smoothed away, and through our mind ran the thought of how many would miss him.

We do not think it too much to say that the Grammar School has lost one of its best friends, and that all his old pupils will feel that one has been taken away from their view who will ever be remembered and loved by them. Dr. Moir had his faults as well as his virtues -who has not ?—but " He was a man take him for all in all,"

and those who in his class felt his power to teach not

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only Classics, but many other things of as much, if not of more, value, will naver forget him while they live. One, at least, will remember him with reverence, gratitude, and love.

G. STANLEY RUSSELL.

On the morning of the funeral, the flag on the tower of the Grammar School floated half-mast high.

The Rector, Mr. H. F. Morland Simpson, at prayers, took for the lesson, Ecclesiastes, 12th chapter. After prayer, Mr. Simpson said—" I suppose there is not a boy in this School, from the oldest to the youngest, who has not a sense of the loss we have sustained by the death of Dr. Moir. Many of you, I think most of you, were in the School when he ceased to be an active teacher, only two short years ago. I do not intend at present to say much on the subject of his great services to the School during the 18 years in which he was connected wth it ; that will perhaps find expression on a more suitable occasion. I wish that the School as a whole should mark their sense of respect for a very great and distinguished teacher, who has passed away from us, by closing to-day at 12 o'clock."

Mr. Simpson then invited the boys of the Upper and Middle School to attend the funeral, and gave them instructions as to the order in which they were to walk in the procession. The School was closed at noon.

The funeral was a very large one, and contained representatives from all sections of the community.

The chief mourners were Mr. James Moir, M.A., D.Sc., and Mr. William Ironside Moir, M.A., M.B., C.M. (sons) ; Mr. John Moir, Forres, and Mr. Charles Moir, Edinburgh (brothers); and Mr. Forbes Maitland Moir, Aberdeen (nephew).

The pupils of the Grammar School were very well represented, and the members of the staff present included, Mr. H. F.

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Morland Simpson, M.A., F.S.A. (Scot.), Rector ; Mr. Geo. Middleton, M.A., Senior Classical Master; and Messrs. W. Murison, M.A. ; M. H. Mackie, M.A. ; W. Brownie, M.A. ; Peter Edward, M.A., B.Sc. ; P. G. Allan, M.A. ; James Davidson, M.A. ; Charles DavidThe memson, M A.; Samuel Pope, and others. bers of the School Board who attended were Mi. John Craigen, Chairman; Mr. G. M. Thomson, Dr. Maconochie, and Mr. Thomas Hector, Clerk. Professors W. L. Davidson., LL.D. ; H. J. Grierson, M.A., and Theodore Cash, M.D., were present from the TTniversity; and among Dr. Moir's old pupils were Messrs. R. W. Mackay, William Mackay, J. E. Rae, M.A., G. P. Hector, M.A., Colin. M. Kerr, M.A., A. Milne, George R. Watt, Robert Fleming, G. S. Russell, T. B. Robertson, H. J. Butchart, George Dawson, Ernest G. Gray, and many others.

ON SOME WISEACRES. To one who passes his time in studying his fellow-men, their foibles and idiosyncrasies will bring not a little amusement, and, perhaps, even some profit. The study of all their little shifts and subterfuges can never grow uninteresting, because there is no lack of variety in them.

The most common failing is a pretence to wisdom and deep knowledge of some particular subject. Most men wish to appear authorities on something, and it is usually the case that the less a man knows, and the less experience he has of any branch of knowledge, the more he wishes to appear to know.

A very common type of this class is the "amateur politician." His stock-in-trade consists of a few technical terms, such as—the Referendum, the Eastern Question, Licensing Reform, Home Rule, Old Age Pensions. These he brings out on every possible occasion, and proceeds to descant learnedly upon them.

It commonly happens that be quotes the opinions of leading politicians. " Such-and-such's opinion is "—or even more frequently, if he thinks there is the slightest probability

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of his being believed, " As I was saying to Lord So-and-so only a few days ago--." This seldom fails to create a profound impression on the minds of his simple audience, though, perhaps, his claim to such intercourse is something like that of the man whom Goldsmith describes, whose " mother had been laundress to a man of quality, and thus he had early acquired a taste for pedigree."

It is to be observed, however, that when anyone appears, who really has some claim to have his opinion accepted, a man of this type, and indeed all those who make a practice " of seeming wise," shrinks abashed into a corner, and refrains from offering any opinion whatever, unless, indeed, he be a specimen of the particularly virulent type of blatancy which tries to make up by strength of lung for any weakness of argument it may have. This latter species generally has one argument, which is undoubtedly true, and on which it falls back with feeble, illogical reiteration.

Another genus, which has been strongly in evidence for the last two years, is that which may be denominated " amateur strategists and tacticians." Their favourite remark is—" Now, if I were Commander-in. Chief--," generally uttered with an emphasis on the " I " which betokens to the world the fact that—in his own mind, at least—the speaker is persuaded of his own immense superiority to any mere professional soldier that ever existed. He is convinced that if he were only given the opportunity he would bring the war to a triumphant conclusion in six weeks. He usually winds up the harangue, which he is unfortunately only too fond of giving, with a lament on the favouritism displayed in high places, and with what suspicions officials look on help offered from outside by any really competent man.

Of another and more loathsome type is the individual who praises up some one, and concludes by " Oh yes, Soand-so is a very nice fellow, but--," and a nod, a gesture, a look, full of expression, completes the sentence. This is a very simple method of blackening a man's character. It condemns not so much by what is said—for this species is usually careful to say nothing direct, contenting itself with mysterious and obscure hints, as by what is left unsaid.

This " friend " does indeed " damn with faint praise." He is " Willing tb wound, but yet afraid to strike, Just hint a fault, and hesitate dislike."

It is curious, however, that his praise is in inverse proportion to his own success. It is usually the unsuccessful that do their friends such " service."

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To the suspicious this might perhaps hint of jealousy, but, of course, such a thought cannot be entertained for a moment. Their reason, in every case, is their sincere desire to do mankind in general, and the object of their remarks in particular, a service.

The more they praise him at first, the more weight will attach to their unspoken words. The sudden break shows that they are in possession of facts which, if known, might seriously injure his reputation, but, sooner than do that, they will not declare them at all, but will be satisfied with merely intimating that they could say more if they chose.

And in this case the " suggestio mall" is infinitely more damaging than the " suppressio boni."

All those types have certain features in common; some pet phrases brought out on every possible occasion, an air of mystery giving the impression that if they were at liberty to speak, what might they not say ?

It is unfortunate that people of this kind should be so prevalent, but, while human nature remains as it is, the case cannot be altered. As these people are so sure that if they were in charge the world would be a much better place than it is, would it not be possible to grant them their heart's desire, put them in charge, let them improve human nature, and thus their act would recoil on themselves and destroy them.

FELLBERY.

EVERY MAN HIS OWN TOM HUGHES-IN A WAY. I BELIEVE that every man has a Tom-Brown's-Schooldays point of view sometimes ; and he would probably have it much more clearly if he possessed even a shred of relics.

Every school, of course, is not a Rugby, and every dominie is not an Arnold ; but very few men fail to find a certain satisfaction at times in the memory of their schooldays, less on account of their educational value, than by reason of their associations. How many times I have met a man who has once beamed brotherhood, from the mere fact that we were at the same school together. When that school can boast of an age like the G.S.A., the feeling of pride and comradeship grows stronger. Unfortunately there was very little esprit de corps at the Grammar School when I was a boy there, for it was passing through a very un-

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fortunate transition period, when it neither belonged to the Town, as in the old days, nor to the State, as it may be said to do to-day under the present system. But for all that, I recall with pleasure some of the days I spent there, and quite recently I have gratified a passion for pasting by constructing (in a decreasing number of leisure moments) scrap-books bearing on the School, as an appendage to a much more elaborate one of the University of 1884-88. Had I begun to collect material when I was a pupil at the School, I could have accumulated a great amount of interesting material, which seemed commonplace at the moment, but becomes valuable in point of its very ephemeralness. I beg to suggest to all enthusiastic pupils, that the keeping of scrap-books of this description is an amusement which, as the newspaper book puffers say, " will pay perusal " at a later period when much of the matter cannot possibly be got together.

Let me describe the exact method by which an efficient scrap-book of this character may be made. I would strongly disadvise your getting a bound book and then beginning to paste into it. That never makes a good job, for it may become too thick, or remain too thin. The best way is to get a book-binder or stationer to supply you with sheets of (non-glazed) paper, cut to a certain size, and arranged in sections of 8 to 12 pages each. The value of having sheets separate to start with is this, that the binder on. getting the volume to put it into covers, can arrange the thickness of the ledgets. Then as to pasting, the term is rather a misnomer, for I prefer gum to paste. The most suitable gum is that made (in France) by Faber. It is expensive, but it is excellent. Gum only the edge of the piece of paper which you wish to preserve, never the whole surface—for the longer it takes to dry, the greater will be the chance of the whole sheet corrugating. On pasting in an item, it is as well you should put the volume under a book or some weight, so as to get it as flat as possible. You would be astonished at the interesting items you can collect for such a book, and the mere act of preserving them serves to keep you in mind of the old School and the young generation ; and may suggest how you can help it.

J. M. B.

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ON AN EASTERN LINER. I. the leaves are turning from morning, and an October IT is green to russet, or dropping slowly in the woodlands under the first chills of winter, when the big ship casts off her moorings with the quay, and sheers off amid a flutter of handkerchiefs. The dock-gates draw near ; they pass, and the distant group of friends is shut from sight, as we glide into the Thames and head down-stream to the sea.

Houses give place to flat river banks along the tortuous sea-way. Mile after mile and there is no change in the uninteresting scenery, so the bell for dinner is welcomed as a pleasing break in the monotony. The saloon fills rapidly, but few have adopted the conventional costume on this, the first night. Most have packed it securely at the bottom of their largest case, beneath articles required three weeks hence.

Others haven't put it there, but will find it there when, some days later, they have littered a small cabin for three with an assortment of miscellaneous goods. After carefully re-packing, everything has to come out again before the tie is reached.

When putting your jacket into shape preparatory to leaving, one of the other two men asks if you wouldn't mind taking off his trousers. It is all in the days' work, and you wouldn't grumble if you were feeling happy at the time.

At the first course comes an ominous roll. " Getting into the open," remarks the second officer, who presides at your table. Then, cheerily, " It's blowing a bit out there." After a judicious pause, you cast a stealthy glance at the door. It is at the other end of the saloon. Another pitch, and a startled look creeps into the faces around you. Again, and an air of resigned determination has taken its place. The ancient martyrs were not more docile.

Some middle-aged persons seem perfectly pleased with themselves, and at rest with the world. They are the People.

They do not sneer; only show that they are happy. Under the circumstances, you regard it as bad form. They do not decline the next course, but help themselves liberally to it: you don't.

Meanwhile it is blowing, or the ship is taking undue liberties. It is patent to a mere landsman that a crescendo is being painstakingly worked up. There is no romance about the future ; like the soldiers at the "Burial of Sir John Moore," you bitterly think of the morrow. You could throw a brick at the, head of the North Sea for playing such a low game, but the odds are heavy; it would not care.

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The menu is long, and neither the People nor the waiters are in any hurry. In fact, when you come to notice it, the waiters are disgracefully slow—and this on a P. and 0., and a mail boat. Surely the People will stop cramming sometime, just to show the chefs that the passengers are not the gourmands that they were evidently supposed to be. The People have very little taste, or rather they must be all taste.

Right ! left! Up ! down ! That falling away into space is the worst. If I shut my eyes will it be better? Blue ships tossing on a sea of carmine. Not good enough by much. I'll leave! I shan't—till some other one does ! Hullo! two waiters collided : that will hasten the end ; for goodness' sake, break everything ! The company are rising at last.

They want to find that door. This is the traveller's first experience: there are no clouds of glory about it.

The Bay of Biscay is a misnomer. After shipping a cubic mile of Channel water, and exemplifying every position of unstable equilibrium, you prepare for death in the Bay, and make every arrangement to leave your worldly affairs in a satisfactory condition. The Bay smiles upon you. Not a wave ripples its surface. The People knew all this—knew that an east wind doesn't affect this marine ogre: that it takes a south-west one to bank it up.

The People are an interesting lot. They can tell you the various lighthouses passed, and distinguish a P. and 0. from an Orient miles away. The peculiarities of the various lines are an open book to them. They compare Red Sea notes, and discuss the sinking of the China. They set their watches by the ship's hells, and find the best part of the deck for their chairs. They never get in the way of engine-room smells.

Their quoits never run forty yards to hit the irritable Captain on the ankle. They do not walk between two rows of chairs when there is a swell on, in such a manner as to be cursed by every third person. While others are yawning over a dull book they are conciliating the crew, and hearing long, interesting stories. The look-out man on the prow is afriend of theirs, though they do not credit everything he says. This quartermaster is the owner of a fund of humour, and, by his own confession, must have travelled round the world a score of times, and in addition paid a flying visit to one or two of the minor stars. His eyesight is certainly phenomenal, like the shark of his favourite story, whose death occupied the entire energies of the 'ere tramp's crew for half a day, and who took seven pounds of lead in the eye and neck from a double-barrelled gun, and only playfully flicked the cook into the scupper after it all ! " We 'ad to cut 'is tail off, sir, an'

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that stopped 'im. Too tough 'e was to eat, sir, though I've . made a square meal off a dolphin. They taste suthin' like veal, but you've to get used to 'em first. Yes, sir, that's the light on Cape Villano. Most folks think it's Finisterre, but it's not. I've been round in 'em parts miself; it's nigh on four years ago. S'pose you noticed the Ushant on Saturday ?

Finest on the coast. I don't think we'll see Lisbon this time.

It's all right on a clear day, when you get the sun on the roofs. We're goin' fifteen knots now, so we ought to be off Roca about lour."

St. Vincent may sneak past in the night, but not se Gibraltar. Gib. has a habit of turning up near sunset, and this gives you the full benefit of Spanish and African scenery.

In from the wide Atlantic—the great, mystic ocean of the ancients, with its lost continent and numberless fairy islands —past the Pillars of Hercules, you journey to the Inner Sear the world's centre in the Thalassic Age. Tiny fishing craft are tossing in the Straits. With such as these did men turn Westward to the unknown, or creep round the coast to barter with the natives of far Cathay.

The bold outline of the Dark Continent rises tier upon tier to the inland steppes. Behind the pirate stronghold of Tangier stretch lofty mountains, hack towards the desolate Sahara. On the other side, Tarifa, with its white lighthouse, drifts by, and the Spanish town of Algeciras comes in sight.

The summits of Ceuta and the Rock are shrouded in a veil of mist that streams away on their leeward slopes, and thins till it vanishes into air again.

Beneath the gun-flecked ramparts the engines cease throbbing, the anchor rumbles down to the shouting of the Lascars, and the liner swings round by the side of the turreted "Formidable." A swarm of boats are already on their way to join us. If their occupants cannot succeed in selling, there is always the chance of an open port-hole, through which a wonderful amount can be brought by the end of a long pole.

As there are some hours to spare, you go on shore, and find an English exchange and a townful of soldiers. Your soul revolts against a native guide to show you round a British town, so you refuse his offer. What you do want is something to eat when you come vis-d-vis with the Hotel Cecil. That it is a libel on its name you don't know till later, when half through the table d'hote. The waiters do not talk English, which is a fortunate thing for them when they have twice omitted you. You make a solemn declaration of your feelings; with an intelligent nod they bring you more

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bread. At dessert you work a little of that 4s. off, but remember with grief that grapes cost ld. a pound. If you are a Briton, you will pocket all the nuts and flowers within reach. Even then you are saddened, but revive to buy a specimen bit of the lock at a reduction, and six hundred cigarettes at lid. for twenty-four. An evening paper and pictorial cards complete your equipment. As the boatman rows you off, a great gun flashes the time across the water.

An hour passes, and the steamer is under way once more.

The terraced lights of the town die slowly one by one, and Europa Point shuts off the last.

II. NEXT morning, having secured an early bath, and so avoided forming part of the pyjama and towel procession, you come on deck to see the sun gleaming on the snowy Sierra Nevada.

Bare rocks run down to the coast and terminate in a narrow foreshore. Headland after headland glimmers into sight, takes form, and is gone. A delightful freshness is imparted to the air by the breeze from the mountains, and the Mediterranean itself is at its best. Now and again, like specks on the hillsides, appear the huts of the scattered dwellers on the uplands. Dark-eyed and swarthy are the men who live there, lithe and agile the women, while the little child playing at the door has the stern, fierce pride of both. The town Spaniard may forget his country's past, but the mountaineer, never.

Far on the right loom up the Balearic Isles, and thus over a sunny sea we pass north to Marseilles.

Marseilles is all public-houses and quays. This is the first impression you receive on going ashore. The next is that the French are a set of polite humbugs. You leave the pier surrounded by an escort of people sacrificing their goods to you. You are delighted at their thoughtfulness, and express regret at being unable to accept. The crowd grows. Thinking to disperse it, you become rude. One offers you a cigarette ease for twelve francs. You tell him it is worth four. He presses it into your hand. You pocket it, throw him the money, tell the rest to run away and play, and stride off.

On your return to the ship you find that one of your friends has paid exactly a quarter for the same thing. Mercifully you do not know that just then, and rejoice at having thrown off your pursuers.

As all roads lead to Rome, so in Marseilles all streets lead to the Bourse. When you are there you wonder at their troubling to do so. The surroundings of Marseilles are magni-

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ficent, but the town itself is too full of Defenses d'allicher to be romantic. The people who do not work at the docks seem to spend their time in fixing these notices over every wall.

After a climb you reach Notre Dame de la Garde, and are rewarded for your efforts. The Chftteau d'If, of Monte Christo fame, stands on a rocky islet in the bay. Mile upon mile of shipping is shown by the many coloured funnels and tall, reed-like masts. On every side are hills seared with quarries, and it is in a depression among these that the town nestles.

At this point some small boys take it upon themselves to shout your nationality. You don't mind that, but when some bricks are employed to give emphasis to their remarks you retire with dignity. On the way a flagrant cartoon on the British Army dangles insultingly from a book-stall. To buy it, tear it in two, and throw it at the seller is the work of a moment, or if it is not it ought to be, as delay ensures a mob,. and there are pleasanter modes of spending time than being their object of admiration, especially in the Rue de la Republique. Coaling operations have finished when you reach the ship, and the Overlanders are on board, so at dinner you pass out of Marseilles, cross the island-studded bay, and, skirting the coastguard station, steer south-east for Port-Said.

Corsica is famous for the birthplace of Napoleon, but itsultimate fame will rest on its being loved by Anglo-Indians.

One would naturally expect the Mediterranean to be a quiet, self-respecting sea. After the Gulf of Lyons has been sampled your confidence in it is gone. In comparison with it the North Sea is a gentleman. It doesn't require a wind to stir it up : it is chronic. Beneath the lee of Corsica relief is found. There are worse places than Corsica is your reflection, if you are capable of reflecting at alh when its kindly lights show ahead, and the ship points for the Straits of Bonifacio.

Scylla and Charybdis are frauds. They have strewed the Sicilian and Italian coasts with wrecks since before the days of Ulysses. You hear they will not be in sight till morning,. so you go below in the firm belief that the song of the sirens will be the music that awakes you. You are up betimes ; they have not begun. On deck you look around : nu Scylla, no Charybdis. You sit down to wait. Other people begin to appear: the Straits of Messina do not. They passed atfive A.M. You saw Stromboli the previpus evening, and take comfort from the thought. He at least is obliging and warm-hearted.

There are no Bank Holidays with him ; he doesn't stop work on Xmas or King's Birthdays—no one tries to make him.

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Seventy miles away you can see him at his post of lighthouse keeper. Every four thousand feet of him is busy straining to push the molten lava up, and topple it down his northern flank. The sky above him glows in sympathy when, every now and then, he bursts the summit-cloud asunder.

Skirting the Cretan shore, a pair of yellow funnels come up on the horizon, and, with the spray curling over her bows, a British warship dashes by. Raced by a sportive shoal of dolphins, a day later the deep blue of the waters gives place to a muddy green ; and when the tall column of Damietta has disappeared on the starboard quarter the declining sun falls level on the white house-tops of Port Said, and you know you are very near the East—the immemorial East.

Between two long rows of buoys the ship glides to an anchorage, and the night comes down suddenly, still and breathless. The coaling barges are alongside ; the decks curtained from the black dust that will soon fill the air.

Then follows a scene whose weirdness is indescribable. By the light of flaming braziers set in tripods on the barges, a line of screaming figures rush up a narrow plank with coal baskets held aloft, while another line, emerging from the ship's side, pours chattering down a second. It seems all a nightmare, this wild rush of half-clad, many-raced people, but ere a few hours have passed a thousand tons have been transferred to the hold from this " meeting-place of all the world."

There are a few " don'ts " which it is advisable to adhere to on landing. Don't walk anywhere save in the centre of the street. Don't choose a by-street, unless you are tired of life, and fancy leaving the mundane with a knife between the shoulders. Don't gamble in the Eldorado—the decoy ducks win : you won't. Don't pay English prices for Egyptian cigarettes ; and, lastly, don't allow the natives to touch you, as quarantine, in addition to being a waste of time, is a weariness to the flesh.

When you have passed into the canal, and left behind Port Said, with its white-uniformed police, and heard the last strains of " The Motor Car " from the boatful of Italian (?) musicians, you have entered on a new life. As you steam at the regulation six knots past the Palace of the Canal Owners, with its three green cupolas on white pillars, you see a wide stretch of salt-crusted sand; and, on the other side, beyond the pathway and the iron road to Suez, gleam the placid waters of Lake Merzaleh. Soon a band of Arabs appear in the waste, swaying deeply on their slow-pacing camels. Save this, there is no sign of life, except at the

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occasional lonely signal-station. Thus you proceed, till the sky glows orange as the sun goes down over the desert.

The silent night wears on, and, heralded from afar by the searchlight that radiates from our bows, we emerge upon Lake Timgah, on whose shores stands Ismailia. A red light shows to starboard; there is a slight slackening of speed, and when the tug shoots again into the dusk, we have another pilot on board and are heading for the Bitter Lakes.

A few hours bring us to them. There has been no lyingup as yet, but when we have crossed them at full speed, and are reflecting on the scene that once transpired near them, suddenly the signal flashes, the mail-boat is lowered and run on the canal bank, the great ship is made fast to the posts on shore, and the light put out while another steamer passes slowly up the channel.

Sixteen hours from Port Said and Suez is reached ; an hour and we are on our way down the Red Sea. This part of the journey has a reputation. The chief steward will tell you that two years ago they put twelve men overside from this very boat when she was acting as a troopship. When the wind gets astern you may sleep on deck, but you will not below.

During the day you have been going in for sports to keep yourself fit. You have ruined half your linen, and, now as you lie looking up at the stars, you feel aggrieved. Life becomes a barren wilderness with no oases. Hour after hour and the thump, thump of the screw goes on, with only the occasional sigh of a restless sleeper, until the dawn breaks.

Aden by night is wonderfully insignificant. Ships have a habit of coming to Aden by night. You can find all about Aden in a guide-book, which must have been conscientiously compiled to relate every fact connected with it. With the kindly aid of the Southern Cross and Venus you may make out a volcanic crater, but from an anchorage of a mile nothing more.

Babel-Mandeb is the Gate of Tears, but in modern times the appellation is more suited to Aden. It is here that you must change into the mail steamer for India—if you have travelled from London with the Australian boat. You have made friends of people who were total strangers two weeks before. If you are young you may have left your heart behind in the " Victoria," whose passengers crowd to the side and cheer as the little launch bears a hundred of you off to the other ship.

The mails are being rapidly transferred by a swarm of sun-tanned Arabs differing little in appearance from those who shipped them at Port Said after their long continental journey.

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At 3 A.M., while the tropic night still rests calmly on the face of the waters, the " Victoria" steams off by way of Socotra for the Southern Seas. An hour later and you are gone E.N.E. for Bombay.

Next morning is employed in losing yourself on board.

At dinner the little company fill barely half the saloon, and everyone has a dejected air. Most are wishing that the voyage was over—parting abroad is at best depressing.

Matters are enlivened for a time by the bell for " collision stations " sounding. An antarctic whale has wandered northwards and got in the way of His Majesty's mails; it is now somewhere to starboard crushed and inanimate. The young blood are willing to give two months' pay if a plate has sprung, but there is no such luck agoing.

Five days from Aden, and in the grey stillness before the dawn, the quartered flag of the P. and 0. is run up, and the harbour lights of Bombay flash a welcome from the Indian Empire.

FREDERIC W. GALLOWAY, A.D.S.P. Moradabad, North-West Provinces, India.

A WEEK WITH THE BOERS. WE were captured! People talk about the Boers being good marksmen! Certainly the old men are good shots, because in days gone by their living depended on the game they killed, and every shot wasted meant money thrown away. Fortunately for us, we fell among men who (to use a common phrase) "couldn't shoot for nuts." Their shots came over our heads, and as we bent down over our horses' necks, we heard the bullets ping-ping most uncomfortably near. Other shots came all round about us, As the bullets struck the ground we saw the sand and earth spurt up.

It was a miracle none of us were hit, far less killed. We were in a very tight corner, and I gave up all hope of ever seeing camp again., Our captors discussed all sorts of topics from Kruger down to farming. At last it was beginning to dawn on them that " Oom" Paul was a rogue, and that he had swindled them frightfully. The first thing they said to us was that our saddles were far too heavy! The day was very very warm, and we were dying for a drink of water. On asking them (our captors) for some, they replied we should get a drink very soon

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when we reached a farm to which they were taking us. In course of time we came to a road, at the side of which was a muddy, dirty pool of rain water, more than likely swarming with all the latest forms of bacilli. The Boers then squatted on the ground and held a council of war. Their first plan was to send us to one of our own columns, 60 or 70 miles away, but, like the Scotch, they changed their minds, finally agreeing to take us to see their own general, whose laager was not so far away. A few were able to speak English fairly well. Pointing to a shed, which was minus a door but plus a huge hole in the roof, they said we might sleep there, and, if we lit a fire, that we should be quite warm during the night. We had been on the move since early morning, so were glad of a rest. While lying on the ground eagerly watching all their movements, we saw their patrols continually coming in and going out. Our gear was all laid on the ground and divided out. It was very galling to see our rifles, etc., being carried away. One of our men would say, " Look at that greasy looking animal going off with my favourite horse" ; another, " there go my rifle and greatcoat," the latter being brand new the day before. The Boers lent us six of our own blankets on condition we should deliver them up safely the following day, which, of course, we did. This loan was a great concession, as the night turned out to be bitterly cold. After that, they searched our pockets, reading every letter we had. We shall say this much for them, that they allowed us to keep our money and tobacco ; in fact, our supply of the latter was getting so short that they actually gave us some Boer twist, rather of a strong, home-made quality, but we were at that time thankful for small mercies. The Boers then killed a sheep, giving us one-half, and lending us a threelegged Kaffir pot. They said we could cook it in the shed.

We all turned amateur butchers, so it was not long before the meat was boiling merrily. We had half a box of matches which the Boers were anxious to buy. Pocket knives, too, were in great demand, but as we were not travelling in these lines, we could not oblige them. Whenever a man was going to light his pipe, due warning was always given, so that we might all take advantage of the same match, as they were worth their weight in gold to us, not knowing when we would reach the " land of plenty" again. After our meal, the Boers crowded round the shed, and, through an interpreter, asked us if it was true the old Queen had taken refuge in Cape Town to get away from the Chinese I Also, if it was true that the French were invading England I

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On receiving answers in the negative, they appeared to be rather doubtful, and looked very crestfallen. They cannot understand where all the men are coming from to keep this war going, and as for all the money they seem to think England is one big gold mine! The Boers seldom read a paper, for the good reason that they are not able to do so.

All the information they get comes from the Dutch parsons and teachers, who seem to stuff them with all sorts of stories—true or otherwise. Next morning they told us to be getting ready. Pointing out the road, they said that we could start off, and that our escort would follow us in a little. They told us also all the food we got would be paid for by their Government. We stopped at a farm where they commandeered a lot of eggs. Judging your appetite by your size, they gave the small men six eggs each and the big ones eight. We outspanned at another place, where the Boers commandeered a sheep, giving the man a " chit " on the Dutch Government for "un slachter scaap for the Khakis." The farmer shrugged his shoulders, and wondered when he would ever receive the pay. Still, it was best for him to be agreeable, as the Boers might have relieved him of all his stock. On the fifth day, the Boers got us up at 2 a.m., saying we were to be let off, and that we would have to walk back to camp. We reached the latter place late that afternoon, tired out and hungry, having had nothing to eat since the previous night. We were fortunate in falling into the hands of a Boer commandant who did not believe in killing his prisoners.

At the same time, we did not at all like the idea of returning to camp without any of our accoutrements. Thus ends my short story. Being a Boer prisoner is an experience I shall never forget. Let us hope the war will soon be over, that the British and Boers will ere long be friends, and that that great country, South Africa, will speedily be at peace and in a flourishing condition.

GEORGE W. WHITE.

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REPORT ON THE ABERDEEN GRAMMAR SCHOOL LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY. GENTLEMEN, I have the honour to report on the proceedings of the Aberdeen Grammar School Literary and Debating Society for the session 1901-02.

The Society has flourished in most respects during the session. The lectures were appreciated by all, the balance left over from the year's funds was very fair, the attendance was good at most of the meetings, and the proceedings generally gave satisfaction to the Committee.

At the annual meeting of the Society, held this session in September, 1901, for the election of office-bearers, several additions were made to the list of officials for last year, and that list was very considerably altered. Six new patrons were added to it. They were—The Right Hon. Lord Justice Stirling. LL.D. ; Sir J. Reid, Bart., G.C.V.O., S.C.B., M.D., LLD. ; Sir J. Westland, K.C.S.I., LL.D. ; Sir T. Sutherland, G.C.M.G., LL.D. ; Sir G. Reid, P.R.S.A., LL. U.; and the Rev. Professor W. P. Paterson, M.A., D.D. The patrons of last year, the Hon. President and the Hon. Vice-President, were unanimously re-elected.

A. R. Williamson was elected President, and changes were made among the other officials.

The Committee afterwards appointed a new office-bearer, namely, an under-secretary.

A syllabus was drawn up for the session. Eight lectures were delivered to the Society—three by masters, and the rest by outsiders, most of whom were former pupils. Four of these lectures were illustrated by lime-light views. The other evenings were taken up, two of them by Magazine nights, one by Judicial night, one by Parliamentary night, and the rest by impromptu or set debates.

Rule II., referring to those who are eligible as members of the Society, was altered to suit the session, and Rule XV. was added, which enforces new members to speak once a month after the first month of the session. The other rules were not altered.

The minutes of the Society were read at the beginning of meetings and published in the School Magazine, and the Roll was taken during the meetings whenever it was found possible to take it.

The attendance of the Society was satisfactory. It fell off, however, in the latter part of the session. The number of members this year was slightly below that of last year, which was no disadvantage. Perhaps the decrease in numbers was owing to the alteration in Rule II.

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The Annnal Finale was held in the School Hall on the 28th of February. The play which was acted at that entertainment was entitled, "Out of the Frying Pan." The concert before the play was greatly enjoyed. The number of the audience (to judge by the number of coins in the collection) was greater this year than it had ever been before. Mr. J. M. Morrison was stage manager, and Mr. G. S. Russell (F.P.), was his assistant stage manager. Both gentlemen deserve our heartiest thanks for their efforts on behalf of the society ; and I feel certain that the Society is most grateful to them. The Finale Committee desire to thank all those who were kind enough to take part in the entertainment.

The finance of the Society is in a fairly satisfactory condition. The income of this year exceeded that of any previons year, but our expenditure was also much greater than it usually is. The income almost reached £20, and was obtained from donations, the membership subscriptions, lectures, the Judicial Night, and the Finale. The expenditure is mostly to be accounted for by reason of extra requirements for the Finale, and for Judicial Night, and also by the number of evenings on which limelight views were exhibited. It is annyoing to find that there was a continual loss at the lectures this year. The balance, though fairly large, is disappointing, when one considers how large our income was.

The speaking by members was not quite satisfactory, though I think it improved a little on the attempts of last year. There was a lack of seriousness among the members, and a Society for Debating cannot flourish without that quality. Finance and attendance ought to be secondary considerations. The Society exists to listen to lectures and to learn the art of debating. No fault can be found this year with the behaviour of members when attending lectures, but some members seem to have forgotten the latter portion of their duty. There was a general restlessness when boys were reading their set debates, and the Society was impatient when discussing the papers.

The subjects chosen for impromptu debates might well have been improved upon.

The Committee, however, did their best to choose worthy subjects of debate and to maintain order. For their success in this latter point they are to he congratulated. Members were too fond of diverging from the subject under discussion, and of lingering over points which came merely by the way.

Fluency was not aimed at nearly enough, and more stress should have been laid upon expression. Some of the junior

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members seemed to imagine that oratory consists in the utterance of strings of words in a monotone. Perhaps the only way to make our Society flourish is to reduce the number of its members, and to place the power of electing office-bearers in the hands of someone capable of judging who is fit to hold office. No doubt the Committee of next year will remedy defects. Classical VII. and VI. spoke most during the session. Parliamentary night was successful, and Judicial night is an item which might well be repeated in succeeding years.

In conclusion, let me thank Mr. C. Davidson, the President, the Under-Secretary, and the other officials, for the help which they rendered so willingly to the Society. The Committee, I think, were most capable, and took great interest in their duties. It gives me pleasure to thank them, and also to remind them of the success which attended most of their endeavou rs.

I have the honour to be, Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, J. GORDON DANSON, Secretary and Treasurer.

Aberdeen Grammar School, April, 1902.

THE FINALE. ONE of the most successful of the Annual Concerts and Dramatic Performances held by the Literary and Debating Society took place in the School Hall, on Friday, 28th February. The Hall was full—uncomfortably full—the programme excellent, and the audience appreciative. Our old friend, Mr. Marcus A. Thomson, sang "The Young Royalist " and " False Phyllis " with his usual success, and was received with the same enthusiasm as ever. Mrs. John Allan sang " My Dearest Heart" and "When all was Young" (Faust), to which Mr. James Pratt kindly played the 'cello obbligato. Miss M. Louise Christie rendered " In Time of Roses" and "The Scent of the Lilies," to the former of which Mr. Pratt again played the obbligato. The rest of the Concert Programme was taken up with instrumental music, Mr. J. M. Riach playing two short violin solos, which gained great applause, and Herr L. Pokorny two piano solos, which took so well that the audience insisted on an encore, which Herr Pokorny duly gave. In addition to this, these gentlemen also played as a duet Beethoven's immortal Sonata.

This all formed what is admitted by all to have been the

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finest Concert that the Society has ever had, though it was to be regretted that the Rev. J. C. Smith, M.A., who so " brought down the house" last year, was prevented by a prior engagement from being present. Two other gentlemen, whose names were on the programme, failed to appear —Rev. E. C. Houlston, B.A., who was indisposed and sent an apology, and Mr. W. T. Clemens, whose place Herr Pokorny very kindly filled. So much for Part I. After a short interval the curtain rose on Part II.—" Out of the Frying Pan "—a Comedy in one Act. The plot of the play appeared to be somewhat involved, but the main thread was that Sir Jacob Fluff, "a dramatic monomanic" (D. B. Nicol) comes to Wentworth House, the residence of Squire Wentworth (G. H. Mair), to pay his addresses to Ida, the daughter of the house (J. T. Soutter), who, not being sure whether s e will like him or not, dresses in male attire and receives him as " Cousin Frank." Fluff's friend, Captain Sterling, R.E. (J. Macpherson), who is already fairly well acquainted with Ida, then appears, and Sir Jacob formally introduces him to the family. The result is that Sterling knows Ida to be a girl, while Fluff imagines her to be " Cousin Frank," and the inevitable consequence is confusion, with alarums and excursions. There are not a few side issues, but these need not be regarded.

The Sir Jacob Fluff of D. B. Nicol was excellent : the part was one which required skilful handling and not a little ingenuity, and in spite of the odiousness of comparisons, we consider it an advance on his Amanthis of last year, good though that was. Macpherson's Captain Sterling was military even down to the moustache and the swagger, and brought back tender memories of last year's Lolli—that is to say, Little—pop. George Wentworth (W. G. Craigen) was exceedingly natural, and showed great originality as well as careful study, while G. H. Mair, as Squire Wentworth, was excellently made-up and acted with success : the Squire seemed to be wonderfully energetic, however, considering how old he looked. The James of W. Cruickshank was fearful and wonderful to behold as far as his face was concerned. Seldom have we seen such a complete transformation produced by a batterie de toilette.

With regard to the " ladies," our eulogies need not cease.

J. T. Souter, as Ida Wentwotth, acted with great success, and displayed no little originality. We were glad, by the way, to note that Miss Wentworth is evidently not addicted to tight-lacing. Finally, L. J. Smith's Mrs. Rummy was an excellent character study of the typical fussy and garrul-

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ous old housekeeper. From what we hear, the actors seem to have had one fault in common—that they failed to make themselves heard at the back of the Hall, and yet the topical allusions were recognised and appreciated quite readily ! • The Debating Society evidently reoognises the fact that the sooner their entertainment is held after the Christmas Holidays the better, and we cordially agree with them, for, in addition to the fact that if they wait till March or so, they lose the " Season," it must be remembered that the everlasting " Comp." and " Prelim." are beginning to make their presence felt, and therefore it is necessary not to delay longer than can be helped. This year, however, must have opened the eyes of all to the fact that under present conditions the School Hall is too small for the audience which flocks to it every year, and we can suggest only two solutions — either migrate to another Hall (quod di aveltant !) or, what is more practicable, have two performances in the School Hall, and perhaps vary the Concert part of it, but give two representations of the Play. We are sure this would pay.

The Society is indebted this year, besides the musicians and actors mentioned above,to Mr. J. M. Morrison,M.A., stagemanager; Mr. C. Davidson, M.A., who, in addition to helping with the " cash," also "made up" the actors ; Mr. M. H. Mackie, M.A., who did yeoman service at one of the doors ; and to many former and present pupils, who gave their services as stewards. The Secretary of the Society—J. G. Danson— deserves special mention for his loyal assistance and support of the Convener of the Committee; while Mr J. Macbeth, who lent us an excellent grand piano, free of charge, must not be forgotten. We hope that this popular function will never again be allowed to lapse.

THENSAUROCHRYSONICOCHRYSIDES. CLASS CAPTAINS OF CRICKET, 1902.

Captain.

Classical VI. V. IV. Modern VI. and V. IV. III.A „ III.B Middle HI. II. A II. B f1 f9

L. D. Cox F. S. Marr W. Wallace L. J. Smith C. M'Leod J. Williamson A. Watt J. Kelman H. M. Morrison G. A. Ledingham N. Brown

Vice-Captain.

M. J. Williamson W. B. Rennie F. Rae G. J. Baxter A. Reid N. Maclean A. D. Horne G. F. Cox P. Barnett I. G. Bisset A. Ledingham

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1902.

Jan. 11.—v. 2ND NOMADS.—This match was played at the Grammar grounds in frosty weather. The Nomads won the toss and elected to play down. Immediately they began to press, and the Grammar had to use all their efforts to keep them from crossing. Occasionally the Grammar got the ball away, and once M. Williamson was on the verge of scoring but Leslie caught him up. The whistle blew for half-time with the School in the Nomads 25. After the kick-off the Nomads attacked the School's line and crossed through their forwards. Saunders converted. Soon after the kick-off they again scored and Saunders again brought out the full points. Soon after this H. Macpherson had a splendid dribble down the field, and looked like scoring, but he failed to get over. The Nomads then gradually worked their way up the field and scored again. Saunders converted. The game ended in a win for the Nomads, who played one of their 1st men, by 15 points (3 goals) to nil. Mr. Sutherland was referee.

Jan. 18.—v. 'VARSITY B.-In this match the 'Varsity turned up several men short but found some substitutes on the field. The match proved a run through, and ended in a win for the Grammar by 56 points (4 goals 12 tries) to nil.

The following scored for the Grammar :—Grant (4), Jameson (3), Nicol (2), M. Williamson (2), D. Williamson (2), J. Macpherson (1), H. Macpherson (1), and Baxter (1).

Jan. 25.—v. 'VARSITY A.—This match was not played.

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Feb. 1.—v. 1ST NOMADS.-This match was not played.

Feb. 8.—v. 2ND NOMADS.—This match was not played.

Feb. 15.-v. 2ND CITY.—This match was not played.

Feb. 22.—v. 2ND 'SHIRE.—This match was not played.

Mar. 1.—v. 1sT 'SHIRE.—This match was played at the School grounds. Nicol was unable to play for the .Sch ool but T. B. Robertson turned out for him. The Grammar, one forward short, kicked off towards the west. Play settled down in mid-field, but, after a series of scrimmages, the ball was carried to the School 25 by the 'Shire who scored through their forwards. The kick failed. After more scrimmages the 'Shire scored, but the kick at goal failed.

Shortly before half-time the 'Shire scored again but the try was not converted. Score at half-time was 'Shire, 9 points ; School, nil. In the second half the 'Shire were kept well in check by the School, although the School never got the ball beyond mid-field. The 'Shire's right wing had many passing runs, but they were never able to pass Robertson, who played a splendid game. Within two minutes of time the 'Shire scored, but only a try resulted. Final score, 1st 'Shire 12 points (4 tries), School nil.

In this match G. E. Hay, who played as a substitute played a very good game, tackling splendidly. Mr. Macbean was referee.

Mar. 8.-v. 'VARSITY A.—This game was played in showery weather at the School grounds. The 'Varsity won the toss and played up. The Grammar pressed and gradually worked their way down the field by good shoving.

The 'Varsity then began to press and the ball was carried up the field again. The Grammar relieved, and mauls took place near the 'Varsity's 25. The 'Varsity relieved in turn, and, Sutherland getting the ball near the School 25, scored.

The try was converted with a good kick. Shortly afterwards the whistle blew for half-time with the 'Varsity with a lead of 5 points. In the second half, the School did the most of the attacking, and play was confined in the 'Varsity's 25 and mid-field. Nicol at length got the ball, and scored behind the posts, but the easy kick failed. Towards the end of the game the 'Varsity pressed, and some exciting play took place near the School's line. The final score was 'Varsity, 5 points (1 goal) ; School, 3 points (1 try).

Mar. 15.—v. GORDON'S COLLEGE.—Gordon's were unable to raise a team for this match.

The School has had a very successful season. It played

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12 matches, won 8, lost 4. Seven matches were not played owing to weather or other causes. The total number of points scored for the School was 198, its opponents scoring 51.

D. H. W. W.

THE ASSAULT-AT-ARMS. The Annual Assault-at-Arms—we believe and hope it is an annual affair—was held in the School Hall, on Friday, 21st February, before a gathering of spectators that might certainly have been larger. Few of the masters were able to attend. The exhibition was, on the whole, very successful, and showed what Mr. H. J. Josephs can do as an Instructor ; but we were sorry to see so few members of the higher classes among the audience.

The Programme was as follows :— I.—Free Gymnastics (Lower 2 and 3) II.—Parallel Bars - (III., Mod. III. A., II. A., II. B.) III.-Boxing IV.—Indian Clubs - (Mod. VI. v. Mod. V.) V.—Weight Lifting VI.—Dumb-Bells (II. A., Lower 4.)

V II.-Tug-of-War - (Classical v. Modern.)

VIII.—Bar-Bells (Mod. III. A., II. A., I.) IX.—Fencing Sketch X.—Vaulting Horse (V., IV., Mod. IV.) The Tug-of-War and the exhibition of Weight Lifting were, undoubtedly, the events of the evening, but perhaps the more youthful spectators were more interested in the Fencing Sketch, which was extremely well acted. " The Lady" took all hearts by storm. The waiter, in this sketch, was successfully acted by John Norrie.

A great deal of excitement was shown during the Tugof-war, and, on all sides, were heard encouraging shouts.

After a good pull, the Classical team won.

A very good exhibition of Weight Lifting was given by Mr. H. J. Josephs and John Norrie. The Weights were kindly lent for the occasion by Mr. Dinnie.

W. G. C.

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CORRESPONDENCE. To the EDITOR of the ABERDEEN GRAMMAR SCHOOL MAGAZINE. 124 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. let May, 1902.

DEAR SIR, As late secretary of the Grammar School Former Pupils' Rugby Football Club, I take it that it is my unpleasant duty to reply to a letter which appeared in your last issue over the signature " Fred. H. Welsh."

That letter deals with an editorial in your October issue, and raises two distinct points—the first, the alleged undue influence brought to bear on former pupils of the School, with the view to securing their services for the 'Varsity Club, the second, the right which the 'Varsity Club claims to all School players attending the 'Varsity.

First, then, as to the alleged canvassing which was the subject of criticism in the Report of the F.P. Rugby Club, to which Report your editorial calls attention. Mr. Welsh, I am sure, will give the F.P. Club credit for making the complaint in all good faith. The information communicated to the Committee was thought to be correct, and the Committee believed it to be their duty to refer to it. I am glad that Mr. Welsh and his Committee deny any knowledge of the matter, and I very gladly accept their disclaimer.

Had Mr. Welsh's letter stopped there, I should very probably have written him direct explaining this, but the second and third paragraphs of the letter raise a question of so much importance to the School that, in duty to my successor, I have decided to reply through the medium of your Magazine. Mr. Welsh's claim is this—that the 'Varsity have a right to the services of all students in virtue of " the unwritten but recognised rule everywhere." To this claim Mr. Simpson, unfortunately I think, agreed, and at the public meeting of the F.P. Club, immediately after the Report of the Rugby Football Club had been read, most pointedly censured his own Club by suppcrting the 'Varsity contention, and went a step further by saying that School players were in honour bound to give the 'Varsity the first chance of their services as in other university towns. At the time, I was satisfied the Rector was wrong in fact, and wrong also in imputing dishonourable conduct to such men as Dr. G. 0. Gauld, the Butcharts, the Websters, Dr. Bruce, Dr. Crombie, Dr. Walker, the Mackays, to name only a few old F.P. players, but I did not wish to publicly contradict our Honorary President. After the meetir g, I thought it would

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be best, for the sake of peace and in the interests of all concerned, to allow the matter to pass. Mr. Welsh's letter, however, again makes the claim, and has made it necessary to examine whether there is anything to warrant it. I accordingly wrote the Secretary of the Scottish Football Union, whose authority I place above both Mr. Welsh's and Mr. Simpson's, quoting the latter's words as given by the former in your Magazine, and the reply I have received In regard to the speaks for itself. Mr. Smith writes point which you raise as to former pupils of schools playing for their university, I have to state that the Rector of the Grammar School is entirely wrong in what he said, as mentioned in your letter. In this city, as you are aware, we have a number of F.P. Clubs, and it is a very exceptional circumstance, indeed, to find anyone eligible for one of these Clubs playing for the University, and it would not be a difficult thing for me, with a little time, to give every case which has happened for years back. The practice here is for former pupils of a school to play for their School Club in the first place. I do not know who the Rector is, nor do I understand where he got his information, but he has certainly made a statement entirely contrary to practice."

(The italics are mine.)

This effectually disposes of the 'Varsity claim "under the unwritten but recognised rule everywhere," and if, by playing for his F.P. Club, a late School member, instead of breaking any rules, written or otherwise, conformed to the practice prevailing elsewhere and recognised by the highest football authority in the kingdom—the Union—it would seem to follow that the imputation of dishonourable conduct is also effectually disposed of I hope, now that a definite ruling has been got on the point, that we have heard the last of a demand which never had anything to substantiate it. The 'Varsity Club, drawing hundreds of students from all over the world, can surely exist without F.P. help. Their last year's team was not so very much stronger with it. There were several equally good men in their second string willing and able to take the places of the F.P.s. The F.P. team, on the other hand, can only exist by the whole-hearted support of the School. If we are only to receive the rejected of the 'Varsity, there is only one thing to be done, and that is to wind up a combination which, I venture to suggest, has been a credit to the School, and has done not a little for Rugby Football in the city.

As an old School and F.P. player, I hope it may not

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come to this, and it is with the view of preventing such a calamity that I now write you.—Yours, &c., SAML. POPE, JUN., Late Hon. Secretary F.P.R.F.C. As Mr. Welsh's letter appeared in our January number, in reply to a letter of Mr. Pope in the Magazine last October, Mr. Pone is doubtless entitled to reply. But I regret that he has not given me an earlier opportunity, by interview or otherwise, of endeavouring to remove from his mind a painful misapprehension. When his first letter appeared, I was under the impression that it was directed against th ose who play for alland sundry in preference to their F.P. Club, and, so far, I was fully in sympathy with his complaint. I understood his reference to be to clubs which have merely a name and no connection with any institution, either School or University. I had no idea that it was aimed at the conduct of any who were playing for the University instead of for the F.P.'s.

My remarks at the meeting of the F.P. Club in question were purely general. It is a perversion to say of one that " he pointedly censured his own Club." Had my words been so understood at the time, they ought to have called at once for explanation, or for the resignation of officials—of myself, for instance. There was not a note of dissent : on the contrary, the remarks were received with some applause. Now, more than six months afterwards, I am informed by the then Secretary that I " pointedly censured " the Club So far as I can now recall my actual words, there was nothing in them to justify the extravagant assertion that I " imputed dishonourable conduct" to so-and-so. What I said I gave explicitly as my own view, and what I regard as the best practice followed, as I stated, at the English Universities. From my own experience of Edinburgh football for ten years, I could have told Mr. Pope, without reference to the Secretary of the Scottish Union, that this is not the rule observed among students in Edinburgh. I made no general statement as to what is usual " in other University towns."

In Edinburgh, as in Aberdeen, I sympathised with those who regretted that the University did not have first claims on its own members. I hold that, short of international honours, the highest honour a student who plays football can aspire to is to represent his University. His loyalty to his old School will, in my judgment, only be intensified by a frankly loyal recognition of what he owes the community of which for the time he is a member, be it 'Varsity or regiment. "The unwritten but recognised

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rule everywhere" are, therefore, Mr. Welsh's words, not mine. Mr. Smith's statement of the practice prevalent in Edinburgh ought not to be twisted into a " recognition " of it. Nor was he correctly informed as to my words and opinion. I am happy to add that I do not share Mr. Pope's fears that the practice I recommend would oblige us to "wind up" the F.P. Club. Considering that some 70 per cent, of boys who leave this School do not enter the University, and that all who do remain F.P.'s when they leave it, I consider that there is ample room for both clubs, without any antagonism, beyond what the generous instinct of the true sportsman will countenance.

H. F. M. S.

" OUR CONTEMPORARIES." WE beg to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the following magazines : —" The Edinburgh Academy Chronicle " (2), " The Washington Jeffersonian " (3), " High School Sentiment" (3) (Parsons, Kansas), "The Glasgow Academy Chronicle," "St. Andrew's College Magazine" (Grahamstown, South Africa), "The Nelsonian," " The Yellow Dragon" (2) (Queen's College, Hong Kong), -" The Olavian."

The " Edinburgh Academy Chronicle" still maintains its usual high standard of merit. The March number contains an interesting article on " The Scenery of Greece."

There is no lack of Athletic Notes.

"The Washington Jeffersonian " and "High School Sentiment" are typical American Magazines, with plenty of fun in them. The February number of the " Washington Jeffersonian " contains a very amusing article, entitled " How the Zebra got its spots!! The March number tells us a very sad tale— " A boy, a match, A strong cigar, A period of bliss, then gloom ; A doctor, a nurse, A coffin, a hearse, A mound and then—a tomb."

(May this be a warning to our younger readers.)

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The January number of " High School Sentiment " asks what is the keynote to good breeding. We might suggest B natural. " A 'letric car whizzed down the street, Where played a babe, alack !

No brake could stop its progress fleet.

On, on it swept ! That infant sweet— Was on the up-line track."

The "Glasgow Academy Chronicle" for March has several good features, including a rather good article on " A Winter Climb in Scotland." This issue is certainly not wanting in Football Notes.

Our Hong-Kong Contemporary, " The Yellow Dragon," like " The Washington Jeffersonian " and " High School Sentiment," is full of jokes. " English history puzzles me, I never can see why : After so very many reigns, It still should be so dry."

The Chinese in this Magazine is really most interesting, especially the Chinese Puzzle Page.

(It is a pity we have to " crib" most of our humour.

There are, we believe, a few wits in the School, especially in the higher classes, and the Editor's box is not hard to find.)

THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL MAGAZINE

Published Quarterly throughout the School Year.

The Magazine may be obtained from the Janitor, at the School; James G. Bisset, Bookseller, Broad Street; and D. Wyllie & Son, Booksellers, Union Street.

The Annual Subscription to the Magazine is 2s. ; or, post free, 2s. 6d., at home or abroad. All subscriptions should be forwarded to the Business Manager of the Magazine, Grammar School, Aberdeen.

Back numbers of the Magazine since 1885 may be had to the Business Manager. application on All literary communications should be sent to the Editor, Grammar School, Aberdeen.

Correspondents must enclose their names, not necessarily for publication.

THE

GRAMVA

SCHOOL

MAGAZI\E

NEW SERIES—VoL. V. 1901-1902.

A

ABERDEEN JAMES G. BISSET MDCCCCII.

INDEX TO VOLUME V. PAGE.

ASSAULT-AT-ARMS, THE.

BY W. G. C. -

-

-

-

ATHLETIC SPORTS, THE

26

AQUATIC SPORTS, THE

BURMESE BURIAL CEREMONY.

BY A. K. R. (F.P.)

BURSARY COMPETITION, THE

-

-

CORRESPONDENCE

-

-

-

-

CRICKET NOTES

-

-

-

-

-

-

EVERY MAN HIS OWN TOM HUGES-IN A WAY.

-

32

-

61

-

114

BY J. M. B.

112

-

126

BY THENSAUROCHRYSONICOCHRYSIDES

GEMS OF TRANSLATION, SOME.

128

-

BY F. W. GALLOWAY, A.D.S.P.

FORMER PUPILS' CLUB, 1901-1902

95

-

- 38, 75

DID BACON WRITE SHAKESPEARE'S PLAYS ?

FINALE, THE.

-

39, 73, 132 -

BY THE SECRETARY

EASTERN LINER, ON AN.

30 22

-

-

CLASS CAPTAINS OF CRICKET, 1902 -

" BEBATER NOTES."

131

-

-

68

BY M.

-

37

IN MEMORIAM-REV. PROF. JAMES ROBERTSON, D.D. IN MEMORIAM-CHARLES LYALL GRANT -

12

-

-

52

IN MEMORIAM-JAMES MOIR, LL.D., D.LITT. -

-

105

LEAVING CERTIFICATE EXAMINATIONS, 1901

-

LIBRARY

-

-

-

NOTES ABOUT OLD BOYS ON SOME WISEACRES.

-

-

-

-

BY FELLBERY

-

-

-

-

24

- 34, 52 9, 48, 89

-

-

OLD BOYS' FOOTBALL

-

-

OUR CONTEMPORARIES

-

-

PRIMROSES, THE TWO

-

-

-

110

-

36

40, 80, 135 -

26

"REMEMBER THE DAYS OF OLD" : I.

JOHN JOHNSTON, MILWAUKEE

II.

W. K. L.

III.

JOHN FORBES WHITE, LLD.

15 -

53

REPORT ON THE LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY.

98

-

-

BY THE

-

-

-

-

-

124

BY M. -

-

-

-

-

19

-

69, 129

SECRETARY SALMON PooL, THE.

-

SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOTES.

BY D. H. W. W.

-

Index.

iv.

-

SCHOOL NOTES

-

-

P A G E. 1, 41, 81

-

-

-

W. WILLIAMSON

-

-

SCHOOL OFFICIALS, 1901-1902 SWIMMING.

BY D. H. -

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

'VARSITY LETTER

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

To VIRGIL

WEEK WITH THE BOERS, A. WHAT'S IN A NAME.

BY JAMES W. WHITE

BY X. -

-

35 79 51 66 121 33

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.

Esq., M.A., B.A. _ • _ _ _ MAXWELL H. MACKIE, ESQ., M.A. 'THE 1ST XV. FOOTBALL TEAM GEORGE MIDDLETON,

.J. M. MORRISON, Esq., M.A.

Facing page 9, f,

i ,

1 15 41 81

ROYAL

SUNBEAMS. £16,16s. Os. With Free Wheel and Back Pedalling Rim Brake.

With the famous Oil Bath (leaf- Case.

62 ST. NICtiOLAS ST,

M. WATT & CO • 9 470 UNION STREET. RESTShe porth of Scotland jfancy Goods emporium For

IN(ebbing Gifts, IBtrthbap +Gifts, - !presentations, anb

ipri3es, &c.

7 UE respectfully solicit the favour of a visit to our Showrooms, which are replete with a most attractive variety in all Departments.

Workshop on the Premises for the Covering, Repairing, and Manufacture of Umbrellas, &c.

McMILLFIN, LTD., 151 UNION

STREET, ABERDEEN. WM. STEWART, Manager.

NEW SEASON'S GOODS

Are aarlrlivsi in esailo3; Leather hnaagtdd

JOHN A. DUNN'S, THE' GLOBE BOOT AND SHOE HOUSE, Come and have

AU Goods

your Choice.

marked in Plain Figures

The

and at

Variety is

Lowest Prices.

Endless.

See

See

WINDOWS.

WINDOWS.

26 UNION STREET, ABERDEEN. Repairs a Specialty, either in Leather, Gutta Percha, or Rubber. Also, Rubber Revolving Heel Pads—Ladies', is., Gent.'s, Is. 3d. per Pair.

Telephone No. 158.

$CNOOL POOK :*< ~{c ~1D jxl~fi~I~I~Ir~.

Drawing Instruments, Sc. CHE7kPEST

Ort

I3ECORD.

WALKER & COMPANY, $ooksellers and stationers (UNDER ROYAL PATRONAGE),

19 BRIDGE STREET, ABERDEEN.

pianofortes, harmoniums, { and Organs.

James Macbeth Has always on hand a Magnificent Assortment of

GRAND PIANOS, COTTAGE PIANOS, FRENCH and GERMAN HARMONIUMS, For Sale or Hire on the Three Years' System.

SECOND-HAND PIANOS, ORGANS, & HARMONIUMS ALWAYS IN STOCK, VERY CHEAP.

nopection requested of nip %tech before settling elsewhere.

Pianoforte and Music Saloon-

181

UNION

STREET,

ABERDEEN.

oroGapilic JamesEwhig palfigg5 PHOTOGRAPHIC

Artist.

11 Crown 3

•,

AND AT

Braemar.

-4-"K

Telephone No. 417.

A. & J. SMITH, Opticians, 23 & 25 St. Nicholas St., Aberdeen. ratalogne Free on application.

R. 1i. Sinitll, BOYS' AND YOUTHS' OUTFITTER.

Athletic Outfits OF ALL KINDS.

Buildings, 117 and 119 UNION STREET, RBERDEEN. .

a 2,9_. . utfierfand, • \(‘_-, ) -"Cr'

oys' Xair-Cutting, 3d.

11

iolburn Street, RBERDEEN.