OK THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE. " TO. fitv (tiSaKra pardavia, ra <!' cvpfra ret &' fvkrd Trapa Oetav r\
No. 46.
MARCH, 1903.
VOL. IV.
g entente. PAGE
School Notes .................. Valete ..................... The Beginnings of Worcester Cathedral School: by the Rev. Minor Canon Floyer, F.S.A. (concluded) Rowing Prospects ............... School Concert .................. Football Review and Matches ....... .'. ... Old Vigornians" Dinner ............ The House Entertainment ............ .Debating Society ............... Hare and Hounds ............... Chess ..................... School Officers .................. Old Vigornians' Column ... ... ... ... O.V: News ............ ..... Oxford and Cambridge Letters ......... School Accounts : Games and Library ...... Correspondence ... ... ... ... ... ... Pro Patria Pugnaverunt ...... ......
167 171 171 172 172 173 176 178 179 180 180 181 181 184 184 185 1 86 187
"gllofes JHE short, dark, days of the Winter term are now over, and the School has settled down after the holidays with •undiminished numbers, the .following new boys
PRICE 6d.
having come: —Form IV., Lewis, F. T. F., Neild, R.; III., Hazeldine, A. N.; II., Wood, L.; I., Kibler, P. G. * * * We are sorry to state that Messrs. L. T. Levick and S. G. Teakle have left the Staff. The former's place has been filled by Mr. R. J. Castley, B.A., to whom we venture to extend a cordial welcome. The new master was for three years Captain of the King's School, Canterbury, whence he proceeded to Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. He comes to us from Galway Grammar School. Mr. Castley has opened " The Hostel" as a new boarding house and we hope to see a great influx of boarders next term. * * * The School Concert last term was a great success from every point of view. The Hall was packed by a large and appreciative audience, and the singing reflected great credit on Mr. G. Smith; the class was again assisted
THE VIGORNIAN.
i68
by a goodly number of Old Boys, to whom our thanks are specially due. *
*
*
On November, 22nd some of the members of the School House, with the help of Mr. Jarrett, organized a most enjoyable entertainment in aid of the Boat Fund. Full accounts of this and of the School Concert will be found in another column.
The past Football Season was, on the whole, satisfactory, although the results were not as good as at one time seemed likely. - On some occasions the team pulled together splendidly, but at other times they went to pieces in the most lamentable fashion, in spite of Mr. Jarrett's energetic training. An account of the later matches, with critiques of the various players will be found below.
Owing to the fact that the field was flooded during the holidays, football for non-rowers was found impossible in the early weeks of this term. Accordingly, paper-chases became the order of the day and were fairly attended. We print a description of the runs. *
*
for the junior game, which should be greatly improved by the innovation. * * *
*
Rowing this term is now in full swing, under the capable coaching of Mr. J. N. Allison. There are great hopes of defeating Hereford on their own water, as all the members of the crew who were so unfortunately prevented from rowing last year, are again available.
It has been decided to retain the extra field used during the football season for cricket also, as the old ground was rather overcrowded last year. Arrangements have been made for mowing and rolling a portion of it to form a pitch
The following fixtures have been arranged for this term,:-?— March 25th...Boat Race, v. Monkton Combe (at Worcester). March 28th Boat Race (at Hereford). April ist Regatta (at the Cathedral .berry). April 2nd and 4th...Sports (on the New Road ground). * * * We learn that addresses will be given as follows, at the usual School services in the Ladye Chapel during Lent:-1- > Feb. 26—Rev. Canon Knox Little, M.A. Mar. 5—Rev. Reader Smith, M.A. (Chaplain to the Bishop of Worcester). Mar. 12—Rev. Canon Strange, M.A. Mar. 19 and 26—Rev. Canon Knox Little, M.A.
We hear that a School Band has been started, and that some seven or eight members have already joined. Some years have elapsed since the School possessed a Band of its own, and we wish the new (organization every success. Mr. Powell is kindly acting as conductor; while T. Harrington is one of the leading lights in the movement. It is purposed to give an entertainment some time next term. * * * The Debating Society has entered on a new lease of life this term, and on the whole the meetings have been fairly attended, both by members and juniors, in spite of the counterattractions of fine evenings. A full account of the proceedings of this Society will be found elsewhere. * * * So far this term there have been two Lantern Lectures. On Feb. ?th, Mr. Castley gave an
THE VIGORNIAN. extremely interesting talk on "A Trip through Connemara," with which district he showed himself well acquainted. On Feb. 2ist, T. Stinton lectured on " The Conquest of the Soudan," and was heartily received by the audience. D. Fergusson followed with a lecture on " The English Lakes" on March I4th. The defect in the lantern, which caused some inconvenience last term, has now been remedied, and the slides were capitally shown at each lecture. We are pleased to be able to announce that the Rev. H. Maynard Smith will, on April 8th, give a lecture on the Universities' Mission to Central Africa, a work in which the School is greatly interested. * * * The Rifle Club is being well supported this term. A and B Squads have been increased by promotions from the C Squad of last term, and now muster 42—the highest total to date. An entirely new Squad has also been formed, and its members will, doubtless, soon be passed as efficient. The Headmaster has very kindly repeated his offer of last year of two cups for competition by seniors and juniors. In this connection we may express a regret that the School does not possess a rifle of its own, fit for actual use, nor even a really reliable carbine. A Field Club has been started among us, on the initiative and through the energy of C. G. Morris in especial. Its objects are to further the pursuits of the various branches of Natural History and kindred hobbies, and it is intended, we may say, to hold several Field Days next term, if possible. The proceedings of the new Society, which already has a membership of over 20, will be watched with great interest. * * * We are happy to announce -that our late Headmaster, the Rev. W. E. BoUariH, has now
169
completely recovered from the dangerous attack of double pneumonia which lately caused grave anxiety to his numerous friends both in Worcester and elsewhere.
We publish in this number what is probably the last of the interesting series of articles on the early history of the School, from the pen of Minor Canon Floyer, the Cathedral Librarian. We are exceedingly grateful to him for the time and trouble which he has so freely spent in researches on a subject so closely connected with our School life. Mr. Floyer has also contributed a letter on the vexed question of the School Name. His dates and details are certainly useful in throwing fresh light on a point which, as he says, cannot be definitely settled. * * * Our congratulations are due to F. L. Steward, who has won the Meeke Scholarship, at Hertford College, Oxford, which has not been gained by a member of the School for three years; and also to A. P. G. Smith, who won an Open Classical Scholarship at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. The School was granted a half-holiday in honour of each of these successes. * * # A most interesting and valuable relic has recently been presented to the Museum by Lieutenant G. Threlfell, R.N., who was at School under Mr. Bolland from 1882-1886. As Lieutenant of H.M.S. Tribune, he boarded the first prize taken by that vessel in the recent blockade of the Venezuelan Ports. The captured ship was the schooner Mercedes. " She was captured," writes Lieutenant Threlfell, " on the day the blockade was declared, 2Oth December, 1902, while trying to leave the port of La Guaira. No resistance was offered by the schooner's crew when we boarded her—much to
17o
THE VIGORNIAN.
the disappointment of the Bluejackets who were with me." As Lieutenant Threlfell was the officer who took possession of the vessel, her colours were presented to him by Captain de Horsey. We are especially grateful to him for remembering his old School, and showing his affection in so kind a manner.
The additions to the Museum this term consist of: — Foreign Stamps from C. A. Steward, O.V. Venezuelan Flag - Lieut. Threlfell, O.V. Foreign Post-Card - A. M. Hazeldine. The Curator wishes to express his thanks for these donations, and hopes to receive more contributions to the School Stamp Album than hitherto. A capital example has been set by Mr. C. A. Steward, who has spent a great amount of trouble in enlarging this collection, and to whom we are especially grateful.
The School is glad to further cement its cordial connection with Mr. John Hooper, who was for many years Clerk to the Governors. Our best thanks are due to Mr. Hooper for very kindly presenting to the Library: — 11 volumes of the English Illustrated Magazine (1883-94). 3 volumes of the Antiquary. The Great Boer War - Conan Doyle.
The Library has been thoroughly overhauled and the Librarians are publishing a printed catalogue of books—the first for many years. The Library Committee is intending to present
a copy to each borrower. The following books are being added this term: — The Little Minister - J. M. Barrie. Sentimental Tommy „ The Haunted Hotel - Wilkie Collins. Dark o' the Moon - S. R. Crockett. Kit Kennedy „ Dombey and Son - Chas. Dickens. Little Dorrit The Open-Air Boy - Hewett. Tom Brown at Oxford - Hughes. The Lady of the Barge - W. W. Jacobs. Donovan Edna Lyall. In the Golden Days „ The Column Marriott. The Vultures - H. S. Merriman. Advancement of Learning - Bacon. The Student's Roman Empire J. B. Bury. The Story of the Stars - G. F. Chambers. „ Germ Life H. W. Conn. America - J. A. Doyle. Horace's Life and Character R. M. Hovenden. - D. Hume. History of England - W. Hunt. Italy Money - W. S. Jevons. Paul the Traveller - Prof. W. Ramsay. Roman Antiquities „ The Story of the British Coinage G. B. Rawlings. „ „ Earth H. G. Seeley. „ „ My Life (2 vols.) Sir Rich. Temple.
The Editors acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the following magazines, apologizing for any accidental omissions : —Bromsgrovian, Oceanian, Eagle (Bedford Mod. Sch.), Herefordian, K.E.S. Chronicle (Birmingham), Salopian, Tonbridgian.
THE VIGORNIAN.
F. C. J. BARKER (1897-1902). Football, ist XL - 1901, 1902. W. V. ROWE (1899-1902). Football, ist xi. - 1901, 1902. Cricket, ist XI. - 1901, 1902. M. C. TAYLOR (1900-1902). Football, 2nd XI. - 1901-2 (Capt). Cricket, 2nd XL. - 1901-2 (Capt.).
beginnings of f^e By the Rev. J. KESTELL FLOYEB, F.S.A., Minor Canon of Worcester Cathedral. [All Rights Reserved]. IV.
HE last paper brought this sketchy account of the School nearly down to the time of the Reformation. Education had sunk to a low ebb in the Monastery. Very few accounts' or registers are preserved of the doings of the Carnaria School. There was a schoolmaster attached to the Monastery, no doubt delegated from the Carnaria establishment to teach the boys. Mr. Noake mentions the name of Hugh Cratford as holding the office in 1501. The office of the " master of the chapel " was continued, but such evidence as there is rather shows that there was no one to teach the novices or young monks how to read and understand their psalters, or to take an intelligent part in the services they attended. The schoolmaster, in fact, received an allowance equal to that of the cellarer's page, and a quarter of that allowed to the yeoman of the cellar. He had a gown at Easter, and sundry other small allowances. - -It was also his privilege at the Prior's Maundy or almsgiving in Lent to choose three boys to receive certain
171
gifts of food*. The connection with the Universities was kept up, but not very energetically. Humphrey Webley and John Blackwell are mentioned as scholars in the early years of Henry VIII.'s reign. Webley became a monk and was admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Divinity at Oxford in 1529. After the dissolution of the Worcester Priory, he became a Prebendary of the new Colleget. Blackwell was still a scholar in 1532, and supplicated for B.D. in 1540. The scholars' allowances were collected in several ways. The Priory Cellarer provided the money, £6, for their " bred, ale, fewell and other necessaryes " ; the Chamberer 30 shillings for their commons and other " necessary dewtes " ; the Kesynner (Kitchener) 30 shillings for their meat. This last item was received through the Abbot of Oseney, who had it out of the Church of Bibery, an arrangement which had then existed for more than 200 years. The allowance, on the whole, was a good one, as it is estimated that at this time £5 would keep a poor scholar at Oxford for a year. Of the other four monks who remained as prebendaries after the re-foundation of Henry VIII., two, at least, Roger Neckham and Roger Sandford, had been at Oxford. Neckham supplicated for a B.D. as early as 1515! De~ came D.D. in 1519; and was for some time head master of the Carnaria School. Sandford, evidently a younger man, supplicated for B.A. in 1535More than one attempt was made before the Dissolution of the Monasteries to put them in better order. The accusations of gross wickedness so largely made against the monks by the Commissioners of Henry VIII. seem to have been very little true in the case of Worcester. J This is in the i3th Century. It is not certain that the custom was sustained to the i6th. t NOTE.—The whole cathedral establishment refounded by Henry VIII. was called a "College." It will easily be seen that the Cathedral Church existed hundreds of years before his time.
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THE VIGORNIAN.
The real evil was that the Prior lived the life of a country squire, and never lived in his Monastery, and that the discipline suffered accordingly. The buildings were much out of repair, and education thought little of. Latimer tried to alter this, and Cranmer, in his visitation of the Monastery in 1533 or 1534, directed that " one honest and gramaticall man sufficientlie erudite to informe ye junior monks be appointed, to resyde in y e Monastrie, and teach them daylie for such times as may be right and conveynniente." This was doubtless in addition to the schoolmaster, whose business was with the boys before they entered the Monastery as novices, or went to the University or to secular life. But all this was of no use. Severer measures were necessary, and the steps were taken by the Royal Commission which began in a desire for reformation and an increase of learning, and ended in plunder and spoliation. The Monastery was dissolved in January, 1539. Three years elapsed before the foundation of the new " College." During this time most of the monks no doubt remained, and the Cathedral services were kept up with gradually diminishing ceremonial. It seems probable that rather than turn the boys adrift, the schoolmaster would have followed the monks' example and kept the school going until its refoundation in 1542.
near Bath, a school of about the same numbers as ourselves. The race will be rowed at Worcester. The date has been fixed for Wednesday, 25th March. Owing to the fact that the School " light four " is now unfit for racing purposes, we have been compelled to purchase a new boat. Its measurements are 42 feet by 2 feet (a little longer and narrower than the old one). Our best thanks are due to the following for so kindly contributing towards the fund: —
£ s. d. The O. V. Club Walter Holland, Esq. Rev. W. H. Chappel Frank Charley, Esq. Lord Beauchamp Mrs. Wilesmith -
-
-
10 10 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 0 0 5
o 0 0 0 0 0
to which the members of the School House, in their most successful entertainment, added £$. We are glad to see that a few of the more zealous in the School have turned out to watch the " four" practise, but we should like to see more interest taken.
C. ST. M. WILLIAMS, Captain of Boats.
goncerf. [Reprinted from " Berrow's Worcester Journal."]
prospects. We are pleased to note an increase of numbers on the river this term, some of whom we think will turn out very fair " oars." The annual race with Hereford has been fixed for Saturday, March 28th, to be rowed at Hereford. Our crew is the same as should have rowed last year. We also gladly announce that a new fixture has been arranged, versus Monkton Combe,
The annual concert was held on Thursday, December igth, when the Hall was quite filled by a large and appreciative audience of parents and friends, including the Mayor (Mr. C. J. Whitehead) and the Mayoress. The Dean of Worcester was unable to be present, as the Head Master, the Rev. W. H. Chappel, explained, this .being the Dean's first absence from the conc^rjt for many years. The programme opened with the school song, " Floreat Schola" (the Rev, E. Vine Hall), sung with much
THE VIGORNIAN. vigour. The part song, " King Christmas " (J. H. Hatton) was well taken by the singing class, and the Rev. C. T. Powell gave a capital rendering of the songs (a) " Honour and Arms " (Handel), (b) " England " (H. E. Watts, O.V.). The first verse and the5first part of the last verse were especially good, and the audience insisted on an encore. G. M. Jeans played the pianoforte solo, " Pelouse Fleurie" (Merkel) in excellent time, and the glee, " Huntsman's Farewell" (Mendelssohn) by Messrs. F. W. Weaver (O.V.), F. M. Webb (O.V.), F. W. Webb (O.V.), G. H. Smith (O.V.), was nicely done. H. R. Bruorton sang " Pickles " (Lohr) in good voice, but with want of action. He would, perhaps, be better suited in something sentimental, though his present effort was deservedly encored. Mr. G. A. Webb (O.V.), whose songs (a) " Maiden Mine " (Sterndale Bennett), (b) "Oh, that we two were maying" (E. Nevin), had miscarried in the post, was able to sing " Maiden Mine" in place of another song, later in the evening; a beautiful rendering which was warmly encored. The chorus, " Sing hey! for the winter" (T. Facer), well taken by the class, closed the first part of the programme. Part II. opened with a pianoforte solo, " King Edward VII. March" (Elliott Button), which was well played by C. C. D.ickson. The " Soldiers' Chorus " from Gounod's " Faust " was vigorously given by the singing class with a good martial swing. O. G. O. Larr, who has a splendid voice of rare purity, sang " A Woodland Madrigal" (Batten) in his best style, and was enthusiastically encored, singing in response Dr. Arne's "Where 'the bee sucks." The quartet of O.V.'s made their best effort in the glee " Summer Eve" (Hatton), the voices being well balanced, and the piece was given well in time and with good expression. H. B. Davey gave "Coo," from the "Country Girl," his first song on the school platform, very well.
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He has a sweet voice, with, perhaps, a little too much inclination to the tremolo, but his effort was full of promise. As an encore he gave a pretty little coon song, " Wake up, little darkie," which he rather spoiled by hurrying the time. O. G. O. Larr and Messrs. F. W. Weaver (O.VJ and G. H. Smith (O.V.) sang the trio " Oh happy fair," in excellent style, the trio being much enjoyed. Messrs. F. J. Hadley (O.V.) and Alban Claughton played the 'cello and pianoforte sonata (Rubinstein Op. 39) in three movements satisfactorily. Mr. Smith sang " The Yeoman's Wedding" self-accompanied, in his usual rollicking style. He was warmly encored, and repeated the song. The last item was the part song " Home," tunefully rendered by the singing class with good attack. The Head Master, in a short speech, apologised for the absence of the Dean, 'and welcomed the Mayor and Mayoress, thanking all helpers, with special mention of Mr. Rammell and Mr. G. H. Smith. Amid much applause Mr. Chappel said the Mayor had asked for a holiday, which would be given next term. He wished the boys and all present a happy Christmas. The proceedings closed with the National Anthem and "Auld Lang Syne."
§?oofBaCC Matches Played. Won.
Lost.
Drawn.
ISt XI.
II
<
6
O
2nd
XI
2
2
O
O
Other XL's...
3
2
o
Goals For. Agnst.
33 8 10
49 3 5
Total... 16 9 6 i 51 57 A glance at the above records will shew that the School has well maintained its progress of recent years. The ist XL has never won so many matches before and our other teams were all undefeated. Looking through the results of the senior matches one is struck by the decisiveness of the
174
THE VIGORNIAN.
results both for and against the School, and more especially by the bad defeats we experienced at Cheltenham and Wolverhampton. In both of these matches our opponents excelled in the " wing" game, which, on account of the size of our ground, we are unable to cultivate. This may in some way account for those results, but it was also very noticeable throughout the season that once our opponents had taken the lead the team cracked up, and lost all cohesion. With most of last year's XL still available it was hoped that the team would be strong in combination, but in this we were disappointed, despite the fact that the forwards were continually kept together in practice games. We have before pointed out, and the remark will bear repetition, that combination, to be effective in matches, must be carefully practised in games. Individual efforts look very nice and are often successful, but it does not do to depend on them for winning matches. With so many games as we have, selfishness is bound to be developed to a certain extent, so that we should like to see more matches arranged; more competition is certainly needed, and since the rivalry for a place in the team is limited by our numbers it must come from without. Once more the halves were the best part of the team, their only failing being that of neglecting to clear quickly : the backs and goalkeeper showed but little improvement as the season advanced. One or two of the team were not always in the best of condition, but we noted with pleasure the keenness shown in this direction by the 2nd XL, who certainly should have more matches arranged for them. Accounts of the earlier matches of last term were included in our last issue. W.C.K.S. v. HEREFORD C.S. This match was played at Hereford on November 29th, and though the School were not
at full strength they only lost by a goal. The opening exchanges were fairly even. Stevens i. opened the score for the School, and Hereford at once replied, but Escott soon afterwards put the School ahead again with a beautiful shot. Mid-way through the second half Hereford equalised from a penalty and four minutes from time scored the winning goal. 3—2. Although the School failed to reproduce their form of the first match, they did not deserve to be bleaten. They were badly let down by Barker, who was out of condition and quite failed to hold his wing in check—all the goals were scored from his side. Towards the end rain fell, and the winning goal was scored in such a light that the goalkeeper did not see the ball until it was in the net. The School team was: —Goal, Brodribb; backs, Rowe and Dickson; halves, Steward (capt), Day and Barker; forwards, Wilmot, Jeans, Stevens i., Escott and Williams.
W.C.K.S. v. DEAN CLOSE. On December 6th we were once more defeated by our Cheltenham rivals, who deserved their victory of 5 goals to I. Our ground was frost-bound, and this in some way accounts for the heavy score, as the School seemed quite unable to adapt themselves to the changed circumstances. The team was the same as against Hereford, except that Stevens ii. returned to centre-forward. W.C.K.S. v. NONDESCRIPTS F.C. Played on Saturday, December I3th and lost 15—2. We would willingly say nothing of this match, but our opponents will undoubtedly be satisfied if we attempt no criticism of the game and its result. For the School team, Mr. Jarrett appeared at centre-forward, Mr. Allison outside-right, Mr. Beach-Hicks right back; Ludlow took the place of Brodribb, who had injured his knee.
THE VTGORNIAN. SCHOOL v. O.V.'s. In this match, on Wednesday, December i^th, the School broke the run of bad luck which they had been experiencing, and once more ended their season with a decisive win. Rumours had reached us that the Old Boys would turn out their strongest team, but though these were false, they had a stronger team than usual. The Old Boys, having won the toss, soon attacked, and Day scored their first goal from a penalty given against Rowe, but Barker promptly equalised with a ground shot which Telfer completely missed. With a full team the Old Boys continued to hold their own, and scoring once more kept the lead till half-time. Within three minutes of the restart they lost it, for, by brilliant play, the School, although Williams was off the field, immediately put on two goals. The first was scored by Wilmot, who took a pass from Escott, after the latter had dribbled through on the left, and the second by Escott, after good work by Wilmot on the right. Before the close Williams scored with a fine corner shot and Escott added another from a pass by Jeans. This made the final score 5—2 in favour of the School. Until the Old Boys were behind they played a good game, but then they fell off, several of the team-being out of condition. Day (J. D.), at centre half, played very finely, and Baylis in goal, with Telfer at back, also did well, although the latter was inclined to " kick and follow up." For the School all did well, but were weakest at back.
G. D. DAY. The most improved player in the team. Brilliant at times, but apparently unsuited to a heavy ground. Heads extremely well and is a good shot. Should stick to his man more closely when defending. T. R. SWEET-ESCOTT. Once more proved a great disappointment in matches, when he seems to lack confidence in himself. Very good shot and dribbles well. C. C. DlCKSON. With an unsteady partner was generally off his game. Very good kick but slow in turning. R. C. WILMOT, on a large ground would make a strong wing player. Very fast, with a good command of the ball. Centres well. B. G. STEVENS. His play suffered much from mishaps. Uses his weight well and is a good shot. C. ST. M. WILLIAMS. Has developed into a strong player, but should go down the wing more. He is a good and powerful shot. Places corners well. W. C. BRODRIBB kept a good goal, but is still too fond of running out and of kicking at the ball. F. C. J. BARKER showed a great falling-off. Lacked keenness and was often untrained. Can tackle well. W. V. ROWE. Seldom displayed his form of last season and was frequently guilty of bad fouls. G. M. JEANS. Greatly handicapped by his size. Very weak shot, but passes well.
Critiques of the various players are appended :
2nd XL
ist XI. F. L. STEWARD (Capt.) deserves great praise for his able captaincy. He was the most dependable of the middle line. Good tackier, passes well, but is rather slow.
M. C. TAYLOR was a very efficient captain. Tackles very well; poor kick when rushed. M. S. D. DAY. Has a good knowledge of the game. A good tackier; passes well.
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THE VIGORN1AN.
T. STINTON. A promising player. Sticks to his man well and makes some good passes. A. W. STEVENS. A clever player, especially around goat P. H. LUDLOW. A good custodian, but still has a lot to learn. Stops shots well but clears badly. B. G. GOODWIN. Gives promise of making a very sturdy back. T. HARRINGTON. Might make a good player if he would forget his injuries. W. A. FERGUSSON. Improved somewEat, but is still too selfish. Ought to become a fine player. Shooting lacks " vim." P. T. DARBY. Slow and selfish, but has the makings of a good forward.
' pinner. [From " Berrow's Worcester Journal," Jan. loth, 1903]. The annual reunion at the festive board of Old Vigornians took place on Wednesday evening, January 7th, at the Star Hotel, when there was a very satisfactory attendance. The guest of the evening was, as usual, the Head Master (the Rev. W. H. Chappel), and the Old Vigornians present-were:— Mr. W. B. Needham (in the chair), Mr. J. D. Day (vice-chairman),, the Revs. F. T. Minchall, J. F. Teakle, and J. Went, Messrs. M. Bates, A. Baker, W. M. Binos, R. C. S. Carington, H. Coombs, P. Campbell, C. T. E. Clarke, H. A. Counsell, W. H. d'Egville, F. J. Evans, N. M. Fergusson, F. George, F. W. Goodwin, F. J. Hadley, F. G. Jones, R. T. Keen, H. A. Lewis, A. H. Masterman, L. R. Needham, R. J. Oliver, A. C. Peake, T. W. Powell, J. D. Powell, J. G. Rusher, C. E. Rogers, H. A. Richings, L. Sampson, J. G. Sheild, W. A. Telfer, Albert Webb, F. W. Webb (hon. 'sec.,) M. Webb, J. H. Wefct, F. S. Wilson, J. Wilesmith, H. W. Wheeler, Arnold Webb. Amongst the numerous apologies were letters from- the Rev. W. E. Bolland (late Head Master), Mr. Wallet Holland, and Mr. T. H. Baxter (St. Anne's-on-Sea). The Chairman proposed "The King." The Vice-Chairman proposed " Prosperity to Worcester Cathedral King's School." He said it was difficult to find any part of the School organism which was not in a satisfactory condition. (Applause). The School had never been more flourishing, whether in athletics, work— by which most schools were judged— or moral tone; everything Was in almost as healthy a condition as one
could wish. The School might, in fact, almost satisfy the Head Master, but doubtless he intended to still further improve it, and, from what they knew of him, he would be successful. (Applause). If they looked at the boys the School sent to the Universities, they would be found to be as good a set as that sent by any school. (Applause). They were keen .fellows, pretty good all round, and generally, if they wanted to find the best moderate allround fellows, they were to be found coming from the smaller schools. He never remembered the games being in a more satisfactory condition than at present. It was not every school whose cricket team could boast an unbeaten record for the season. They did not beat Hereford on the river owing to the fact that illness prevented any encounter. (Laughter). At football, no team that could boast of having beaten the O.V.'s team by 7 to nil could take a low position, considering that their opponents consisted of the pride of that very large society. (Laughter). Turning to the chief feature of school life— work—the Vice-Chairman said no school of the size that could win the number of certificates gained by the school last year, had anything to be ashamed of. (Hear, hear). Turning to the intellectual side of school life, Mr. Day mentioned the rise of a periodical entirely worked by the boys, "the Sixth Form Chronicle," many of the contents of which were more amusing than "Punch." It was not intended to improve the mind, but to bring out the latent literary talent. The Vice-Chairman gave some humorous extracts from the Chronicle. Apparently the School was in the most flourishing condition it had been in for a century. The special feature of the growth of the School was the growth of the buildings. The second house, the opening of which was announced last year, was filled to overflowing, and he understood that a third house would be opened next term by a new master. (Applause). In five years he thought they might turn the College Green into a school quad. S|^eaking of the change made by taking away the five pounds formerly given to each King's Scholar—and not always well spent—and its application to exhibitions for boarders, the Vice-Chairman defended the change on the ground that the growth of the School must largely depend upon the boarders. Referring to the modern criticism of the English School system, Mr. Day argued that the best kind of men were turned out by the English public schools, and among such, one of .the best was the King's School of Worcester. (Applause). The Rev. W. H. Chappel—whose name was' coupled with the toast and was well received—replied, saying he appreciated more and more every year all the Old Boys did for the School. It was not only that they were very liberal, contributing prizes for sports and modern languages and helping forward the gymnasium; still more he valued the increasing opportunities they gave of matches— cricket, football, and chess. Particularly he thanked Mr. Frank Webb for his helpfulness in knowing something of what the Old BoyS;were doing. They had put up a board commemorating those who had fought in the war. He thanked the O.V.'s for their help in that. It was quite difficult to find out who had fought in the war, and what
THE VIGORNIAN. they had done. But for Mr. Frank Webb it would have been difficult to put that board up, and only that evening he had heard of another, and there were doubtless others. He wished Old Boys would put away their modesty, and communicate anything of interest as to their doings. Most of all, as a schoolmaster, and having the interests of the School deeply at heart, it was ;a matter of great helpfulness and refreshment and encouragement to know how well many O.V.'s were doing in the world. He should like to have been able that night to congratulate Mr. Conacher on being made Private Secretary to the Under-Secretary in the Scottish Office, rather a striking event. (Applause). Mr. Quilter had been appointed Junior Inspector of Schools. Captain Little was twice mentioned in despatches, and received a four-clasp medal for services in the war. Of Lieutenant Salusbury he heard quite accidentally very high praise for his work in South Africa. He was now with his regiment in Crete. Turning to the younger O.V.'s, he had received a letter from the Vice-Chairman's tutor, speaking most warmly of his position in his college at Oxford. (Applause). Tom Bates had taken the first part of his examination for F.R.C.S., in the shortest possible time—no light task— and their old friend and captain, Norman Fergusson, had done the same thing in the first part of his medical degree, at Cambridge. (Applause). His college had raised Norman King's sizarship to a classical scholarship, and his tutor spoke of him most warmly. He mentioned particularly the O.V.'s at the School of Mines in Cornwall, who gave a medal for fielding, and one of whom, the ViceChairman's brother, had taken a leading place in that School, and during his first year, out of 60 or 70 students, came out second, and very nearly first, and in all but one of the subjects of his examination took a first class. (Applause). As to the abolition of the five pound dole to King's scholars, he felt from the first that it had no educational value. Their School was^' not well off in scholarships. King's scholarships were small in value. If they could double the value occasionally they could draw to the School more promising boys. The money was not in the least confined to boarders. Only that day, of the available money, half had been voted to a day boy and half to a boarder. (Hear, hear). He spoke with thankfulness and hopefulness of the intellectual standard of attainment which had never in his knowledge been higher. He did not allude to the scholarship of special picked boys. The certificate examinations spoke of thorough efficiency in the 6th and • 5th forms. At present the whole of the upper sixth boys had certificates which cleared them of Responsions at Oxford or Little Go at Cambridge. (Applause). Last time they passed 16 boys in the lower certificate examination, twice as many as in any previous year. It was not an easy examination for which they could cram. He did not approve of harassing small boys with outside examinations,- 4nd only the 5th and 6th Forms went in for outside examinations. In the Summer Term a boy who had passed through the lower forms took fifth place in the Westminster Trials and carried off a scholarship of £80 a year. (Applause).
177
Within the last month a 6th Form boy secured a Meeke scholarship at Oxford, and another an open classical scholarship at Cambridge. (Applause). At the last dinner he expressed the hope that Mr. Rammell would open a house at Easter. He did so with seven boys, and now it was practically full, quite exceeding his expectations, and they were obliged to arrange for the opening of a third house next term. (Applause). The staff would be reinforced next term by Mr. Castley, an old friend of Mr. RammelPs, and three years captain of cricket at the King's School at Canterbury, and of no mean scholastic experience. As to games, they had an unbroken cricket record, and would not readily forget the day when the School declared with 200 runs for four wickets, and got the whole of their opponents out for four. (Applause). Nor would they forget the day when, for the first time, they gave a decided beating to the Club and Ground. The cricket season was memorable and the football season satisfactory. If they had been able to row their race, the crew would have given a good account of themselves, as they were the same four that rowed in the previous year. (Hear, hear). During the year they had carried into practice the Morris tube range and shooting, and had trained forty boys in the elements of musketry. Their old boat, the gift of Mr. Walter Holland, was wearing out. The boys themselves had set to work to get a new one and by an entertainment had raised five pounds. He was grateful to hear that the old boys might be ready to help in that. At the present time there was rather by way of being a boom in modern subjects. He did not agree that the old order was entirely right; they must progress with the times, but excessive stress was being laid on the importance of modern subjects. He believed that on consideration they would go back to the old view that classics were an essential part of every liberal education. Their literature, art, and philosophy were drawn very largely from the past, very largely from Greece and Rome, and he held that for organisers of industry there was nothing to beat the classics. In America and^Germany more and more stress was being laid on the classics. The special province of their School in Worcester was to uphold the flag of classical education and as long as he was head master he would endeavour to do so. (Applause). He would endeavour to make the future of the School worthy of that which the O.V.'s had made it in the past. (Applause). Mr. H. A. Counsell, proposing " The absent ones," supposed that the fact that he had always been absent previously was the motive for selecting him for the duty. He invited sympathy for those who were unavoidably absent. Mr. Bolland, his old head master, was unable to travel the long distance at that time, but wished all good to the old School, to which he was very much attached. Mr. Bolland had been elected president for the year at the meeting that day of the O.V.'s Club. [(Applause). O.V.'s absent or present, kept an eye on the School. They were always very conservative of the old traditions, and always thought the time when they were at school superior to the present. Some of them preferred the old name. (Hear,
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THE VIGORNIAN.
hear). All had a warm corner in their hearts for their old head master. In his (the speaker's) time old boys spoke lovingly of Mr. Day. (Hear, hear). His were the better times under Mr. Holland, and the present generation of boys would think that the best time was that under Mr. Chappel. (Hear, hear). That feeling of loyalty to the head master was dnly natural, but, though they might differ as to that, they all had a feeling of intense loyalty to the School and, absent and present, joined in wishing the School a future as glorious as the past. (Applause). The Rev. J. Went proposed " the Hon. Secretary, Mr. Frank Webb." (Applause). The modesty of O.V.'s—which must be a modern development—(laughter)—reached its zenith in Mar. Webb, who was always at work for the good of the School and of the Old Boys' Club which existed, he hoped, largely for the good of the School. It was hardly possible to make a suggestion which Mr. Webb had not anticipated. Mr. Went instanced Mr. Webb's active part in promoting the gymnasium movement. The toast was musically honoured. Mr. Webb, responding, said the Club was not a oneman show; the Committee rendered very valuable service. Mr. Went displayed overpowering modesty in the matter of the gymnasium; the thing originated with Mr. Went. He had to thank Mr. Arthur Bolland, to whose exertions entirely the O.V.'s dinner in London was due, and who helped them very much at Worcester. He concurred in the regret expressed at the absence of Mr. Bolland and, referring to Mr. Bolland's election as President of the O.V.'s Club, said that as the Club originated with him it was a compliment which was well deserved. Adding to Mr. Chappel's list of distinguished O.V.'s, Mir. Webb mentioned that Dr. Holloway, who was, perhaps, the youngest musical doctor in England, would have been present but for a bad cold. Mr. Webb asked it to be understood that that was not a club dinner, and many there were not members of the club. Not enough use was made of the club, which did not exist for the benefit of members but for the good of the School. (Applause). Mr. W. M. Binns proposed "The Chairman." and said Mr. Needham was at school in 1853. If, when they were able to look back upon half a century since their school days, they were as hale and hearty as the Chairman they would have reason to be pleased with themselves. He knew nothing of Mr. Needham's scholastic distinctions, but he knew that he loyally, actively and well carried out the duties of a citizen. (Applause). There was one quality that had gone further than university honour or academic degree to make the country what it was, the integrity of its citizens. In their Chairman they had an O.V. who was a faithful citizen of a faithful city. (Applause). The Chairman, replying, said his career at the School was not a lengthy one, partly because it was impressed on his parents that he would never attain to manhood. So far, however, he had cheated the coffin-maker, and intended to do so as long as he could. He was not a brilliant scholar, and when he was at school the idea was that the best means of enlarging a boy's brain was to apply
certain vegetable matter to another part of his body. (Laughter). During the evening Messrs. J. D. Powell, T. W. Powell, F. W. Goodwin, W. A. Telfer, J. H. West, and M. Webb contributed to an impromptu musical programme. CLUB'S ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the Old Boys' Club took place before dinner, Mr. Needham in the chair. The report and accounts having been adopted, the Rev. W. E. Bolland, a former head master, was unanimously elected president, and Messrs. W. B. Needham and A. Webb were elected vice-presidents. Mr. Sheild was re-electeda member of the Committee, and new members were: — Messrs. F. George and R. T. Keen. Mr. F. G. Jones was re-elected hon. auditor, and Mr. F. W. Webb hon. sec. The Committee were empowered to raise subscriptions towards the purchase of a new boat for the School, or if necessary to make a grant from the funds. Votes of thanks to the Chairman and Tetining officers concluded the meeting.
gteterfammettf. No sooner was it found that a new racing " Four" was needed for the Boat Club than some energetic members of the School House arranged a concert in aid of the fund. The entertainment was held in the College Hall on November 22nd, and proved a great success, over 100 tickets being sold, and no less than £5 was handed over, thanks to the liberality of certain ticket-buyers. The following was the programme : — i 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Piano Solo " Coronation March " C. C. Dickson. Song "The Ripples" O. G. O. Larr. Recitation "Babies" F. A. Jenkins. Topical Song B. Hartley. Thought Reading F. L. Steward. Song " Sally in our Alley" O. G. O. Larr. Piano Solo "Selections" C. C. Dickson. Comic Interlude Furnished Apartments.
C. C. Dickson's solos were much appreciated, more especially the first. O. Larr gave his two songs in his usual sweet style and dispelled all fears of his voice breaking for the present. F. A. Jenkins's "Babies " was capitally recited; in this " turn " the smart get-up of the " baby " and his nurse (C. St. M. Williams) was especially
THE VIGORNIAN. noticeable. F. L. Steward's Thought Reading was a masterpiece of coolness. But, undoubtedly, the hit of the first part was the topical song on school games, which was well sung by B. Hartley, in the unavoidable absence of D. Fergusson, through illness. It thoroughly merited the loud calls for " author," which resounded until Mr. Jarrett appeared. The second part was taken up by a clever sketch, bristling with topicalities and good things, and smartly played by five members of the House, M. C. Taylor, J. A. T. Langdon, E. V. Overell, A. H. B. Webster, and A. W. Stevens. Thanks for a very successful concert are due to all those who took part, and especially to Mr. Jarrett, whose energy as stage-manager was shown in the capital results of his coaching. The performers were also greatly helped by the kind loan of the piano by Messrs. Elgar and of the wigs by Cooper and Co.
The first meeting of Session V. was held in the School Hall on November 4th, when Mr. T. Stinton was elected to the Secretaryship, to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr. F. L. Steward. On the motion of the latter, seconded by Mr. D. Fergusson, the following committee was elected: — For the Upper VI. Messrs. A. P. G. Smith, G. D. Day, F. L. Steward. „ Lower VI. Messrs. D. Fergusson, C. G. Morris. V. Mr. O. G. O. Larr. # * * The first debate of the Session took place in the College Hall on November i/th, when the Head Master was in the chair. The motion before the House was that " Classical Education is out of date and must be superseded by Modern and Technical Education." Mr. F. S.
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MacNalty was the opener, supported by Mr. A. J. Dash. He was opposed by Messrs. C. St M. Williams and H. Raymond. When the motion was thrown open to the House Messrs. H. S. Berkeley, T. Stinton, D. Fergusson, and F. L. Steward spoke. At the division the motion was lost by seven votes to 12. * * * On Monday, November 24th, a special meeting of the Society was held to discuss proposed alterations in the rules. Mr. W. F. Eldershaw took the chair, and on the proposal of Mr. F. L. Steward, Mr. W. C. Brodribb was elected a member of the Society. The alterations in the rules were then read out, and carried, the meeting being subsequently adjourned at an early hour. * * * The Debate on Friday, November 28th, attracted a large attendance. Mr. A. G. Smith presided, and Mr. G. D. Day moved that " Professionalism is Detrimental to Sport." Mr. F. L. Steward was the opposer, and was supported by Mr. B. Hartley, while Mr. C. G. Morris spoke on behalf of Mr. Day. Mr. H. Raymond and W. A. Jarrett, Esq., spoke when the motion was thrown open, and on the House dividing, the motion was lost (10—13). * * * The last meeting of the Winter Term was held on December I5th, when Mr. F. L. Steward took the chair. There was ho private business, and he at once called upon Mr. T. Stinton to move that " The present migration of country folk into towns and cities is prejudicial to the welfare of the nation." In the absence of Mr. A. G. Smith (who was at Cambridge), Mr. G. D. Day opposed. Messrs. Morris and Larr were the respective seconders. On the House dividing, the motion was carried by 12 votes to 5. * * * On Thursday, February 5th, 1903, the sixth
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i8o
meeting of the Session took place in the College Hall, for the purpose of a reading from Shakespeare's " Twelfth Night," in which parts were taken by Messrs. A. G. Smith, F. L. Steward, T. Stinton, A. J. Dash, G. D. Day, C. G. Morris, H. Raymond, and H. S. Berkeley. * * * The fourth Debate was held on Monday, February gth, but few members were able to resist the attraction of other pastimes on a fine evening. Mr. C. G. Morris presided, and called on Mr. A. G. Smith to move: " That some restriction should be placed on Alien Immigration into this country." Mr. F. L. Steward opposed, and was supported by Mr. H. S. Berkeley, while Mr. G. D. Day seconded Mr. Smith. On the motion being thrown open to the House, Messrs. A. H. B. Webster, H. Raymond, W. F. Eldershaw and T. Stinton spoke. On the House dividing, the motion was lost 4—6. * * * On Monday, February 23rd, the last Debate of the Session was held in the College Hall at 4.15. The attendance was large but somewhat rowdy. Mr. G. D. Day took the chair and called on Mr. C. G. Morris to move that: " Fashion is a form of slavery and should be abolished." Mr. W. F. H. N. Eldershaw opposed. Mr. D. Fergusson supported Mr. Morris, while Mr. O. G. O. Larr spoke fourth. On the motion being thrown open, Mr. F. L. Steward spoke against the motion, which was defeated 5—12. T. STINTON (Secretary).
au6 Though paper-chasing is hardly a popular pursuit with us, the three runs at the beginning of the term—the field was too wet for football— were very fairly attended, and at the last chase a field of 40 turned out. The ground was exceedingly sodden and the running heavy.
On Wednesday, January 2ist, the hares, T. Stinton and P. T. Darby set us a hot pace, making a curve round Whittington Tump and thence straight home. Though the scent was good, the hares reached home quite five minutes before the hounds, of whom the first to arrive were G. D. Day, J. G. Panrucker, C. B. C. Cream. On Saturday, the 24th, the two last-named were the hares. Their course led through Perry Wood, and, though the paper was in places scantily laid, they were caught just below the Ketch Inn, by P. T. Darby, who was followed by G. D. Day, T. Stinton, P. H. Ludlow and E. M. Floyer. On Wednesday, the 28th, the hares, R. C. Wilmot and H. R. Bruorton, only went some four or five miles; the pace, however, was fast. Soon after passing the Ketch, whence the smallest boys returned home direct by road, the hares made a short curve and headed straight back. They only succeeded, however, in making good their escape by some 200 yards. The first of the hounds to get in were P. T. Darby, C. B. C. Cream, G. D. Day, T. Stinton and F. H. Armstrong.
The Chess Club is as flourishing as ever. Last term's play was full of interest. In the first handicap tournament Jeans and Pretty won first and second prize respectively. The second competition, on similar lines, was eventually won by Smith, who defeated Goodwin in the final. The prize for this tournament was very kindly given by Mrs. Dash.
A match 'with the Old Vigornians was arranged for "the end of last term. Unfortunately our opponents could only bring three men, but they'won a hard-fought match by three
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THE VIGORNTAN. games to two. Dash, Berkeley i. and Fergusson represented the School. * * • This term a fresh tournament was started on a new system of handicap, but this did not prove entirely successful. # * * The Rev. W. E. Holland has kindly offered a prize for the best solution by a member of the Club of the following problem. The position occurred in a correspondence match between North and South, in which Mr. Bolland played Black. Black : K on Kt sq; Q on KB 4; R on KB 6; Kts on KKt 3 and K 5 ; Ps on KR 2, KKt 2, Q 3, QB 2, QKt 2, QR 2. White : K on KR sq ; Q on Q sq; Rs on KKt sq and QKt 2 ; B on QB sq; Ps on KR 2, KB 2, K 3, Q 4, QB 3 > QB 4 ; QR 3 . A. J. DASH (Secretary).
MONITORS. A. P. G. SMITH, T. STINTON, F. L. STEWARD, A. J. DASH, F. T. BODE, G. D. DAY, C. ST. M. WILLIAMS, W. F. H. N. ELDERSHAW, D. FERGUSSON, C. C. DICKSON. ^ LIBRARY COMMITTEE. REV. W. H. CHAPPEL, MR. BEACH-HICKS, MR. JARRETT (HoN. TREASURER), F. L. STEWARD, A. P. G. SMITH, G. D. DAY, T. STINTON, B. G. GOODWIN. GAMES COMMITTEE. MR. RAMMELL, MR. ALLISON, C. ST. M. WILLIAMS, G. D. DAY, B. G. STEVENS, C. C. DICKSON, A. P. G. SMITH, F. L. STEWARD, E. V. OVERELL, B. G. GOODWIN, D. FERG_USSON (HoN. SECRETARY).
As will be seen by the report in another column, the fourteenth annual dinner took place Officers. on January 7th, and was a distinct success, Captain of the School - A. P. G. SMITH. though only 43 were present. It ought easily to Captain of Boats - C. ST. M. WILLIAMS. be possible to double this number, considering Captain of Football - G. D. DAY. that there are nearly 200 Old Vigornians living Secretary of Football - B. G. STEVENS. in Worcester itself, not to speak of the surroundCaptain of Cricket - C. C. DICKSON. ing district. Secretary of Cricket- C. ST. M. WILLIAMS. Two more Old Vigornians have to be added Captain of Fives - C. C. DICKSON. to the list of those who served their country in Captain of Gymnasium - E. V. OvERELL. the Boer War, Trooper H. W. Needham (1889Vice-Captain of Gymnasium J. A. T. LANGDON. 93), who fought, principally in the Transvaal and Captain of Rifle Club - F. L. STEWARD. Northern Natal, with the gth New Zealanders, Captain of Cycle Shed - G. D. DAY. and Lieut. M. R. Wilson (1875-78), who served SecretaryofDebatingSociety T. STINTON. with the logth Co., 3rd Batj34ion Imperial Secretary of Chess Club - A. J. DASH. Yeomanry from May, 1901, to September, 1902, Secretary of Field Club - C. G. MORRIS. in the Transvaal, Free State and Cape Colony, F. L. STEWARD. and has the South African medal with the three Editors of the "Vigornian " A. P. G. SMITH. Colonial Bars. G. D,,DAY. Paymaster H. J. Hargraves, of H.M.S. F. L. STEWARD. "Perseus," writes on January iith, that he is Librarians T. STLNTON. " full of work in connection with the Expedition
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against the Mad Mullah." The " Perseus " was engaged in landing camels, surf-boats, etc., at Obbia. These experiences and those of Lieutenant G. Threlfell (1882-3), as mentioned elsewhere in this number, are most interesting, and prove in what very varied ways Old Vigornians are doing their country's work. It is to be regretted that beyond Lieut. Threlfell's letter no contribution to these columns from " foreign " O.V.'s is seen. Surely someone, of the numbers in Australia, New Zealand, India, and S. Africa will find time before next issue to remedy this? O.V.
HONOUR TO A DISTINGUISHED
O.V.
The following extracts from the " Leicester Daily Post" of February 24th, will be of interest to all Old Vigornians: — PRESENTATION TO THE REV. JAMES WENT, M.A. The old Wyggestonians signalised their fifth annual dinner, last evening, in about the happiest method that could well have been devised. They utilised a most enjoyable reunion in order to make a handsome presentation to the Rev. James Went, M.A., in grateful recognition of the twenty-fifth year of his headmastership of the Boys' School. His old pupils embodied their tribute in an illuminated address. In this they paid fitting homage to his wise discipline, never harsh, but always exercised in the best interests of the boy; his careful training, which contributed so largely to success in after-life; his determination to maintain efficient education and a high standard of public spirit; and his kindly interest in his old boys. The address was accompanied by a handsome service of silver plate, and both constituted a most eloquent tribute to the invaluable and protracted services of the headmaster. The Rev. J. Went replied in a most felicitous and characteristic address. In the course of this he accentuated the chief aims of his teaching, and recalled with honourable pride the very great and gratifying success with which it had been crowned. Altogether, the presentation of the evening is not soon likely to be forgotten by the many who witnessed it, and reflected almost as much honour on the subscribing Old Boys as on the able, experienced, and respected headmaster whom they made their distinguished guest of the evening. Below is the report of the proceedings on the interesting occasion mentioned above.
The Chairman said it was his delightful duty to propose, " The health of the headmaster of the Wyggeston School" —their dear old friend, Mr. Went—(applause)—and to present to him, in their names, a few small tokens of the great respect they had for him. (Applause). It was difficult for himself and those who were present at the opening of the Wyggeston School, to realise that it was 25 years since Mr. Went first came to Leicester. Before that time he had occupied the position of classical master at the Nottingham school, and from thence he went to the Bradford Grammar School, and fulfilled the duties of second master, to the satisfaction of the masters, the boys, and the governors. That was an honourable position to hold, and he thought they could not but admire the pluck—the British pluck—of Mr. Went, when he was prepared to sacrifice that great position, with its great possibilities, and undertake to start a new school in Leicester. (Applause). If Mr. Went or any of his most enthusiastic friends could have prophesied twenty or twenty-five years ago what he had accomplished, they would have doubted them. Mr. Went had been in Leicester 25 years, and that, it appeared to him, was a record of 25 years of work well done (Applause). Mr. Went had been successful with all classes of boys, but if they would allow him to say so, it was with the average boy that Mr. Went had made such a great success. As to Mr. Went, they might forget him, but he never forgot them. He was always pleased, however busy, to see an old boy, and many of them knew and looked back upon the excellent advice they had received from him in days gone by. Any powers of his (the Chairman) were unequal to express anything like their sincere gratitude for all they owed to Mr. Went. The illuminated address was as follows : — The Rev. James Went, M.A. Rev. and Dear Sir,— A number of your old pupils have thought that they cannot allow the 25th anniversary of your headmastership of the Wyggeston Boys' School to pass without offering you some token of the esteem in which you are held by them, and acknowledging the debt they owe to you for the untiring zeal you at all times displayed in their welfare both individually and collectively. To many of them their school days are a distant, though pleasing, memory, but none can forget that to your wise discipline, which was never harsh and always exercised in the best interests of those to whom it was administered, and to the careful training they received at the school, is largely due any success they may have attained later in life. They admire the determination you have at all times shown to maintain efficient education and a high standard of public spirit among the boys, and they appreciate the kindly interest you invariably continue to take in old boys when their career at school is finished. On behalf of the Old Wyggestonians, whose names are given hereafter, we ask you to accept the accompanying service of plats as an expression of affectionate regard,
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I with the wish that you may long be able to continue your valuable work at the School. Signed, on behalf of the Committee, FRANCIS HEWITT, Chairman. SYDNEY PAYNE, EDGAR A. PERKINS, Hon. Sees. The address was beautifully bound, and most artistically illuminated, while the silver service formed a most handsome present. The Rev. James Went, who was received with loud and continued applause, said it was a commonplace on occasions of that kind for a man in his position to begin his speech by saying that that was the proudest moment of his life. He did not aspire to originality, and a commonplace would often express the feelings of the heart better He said, than the most carefully elaborated phrases. therefore, and he said it, let him assure them, from the bottom of his heart, that " this is the proudest moment of my life." The reason of that was obvious. The School had been his life's work. A quarter of a century was a considerable portion of the life of even the oldest man, and during the past 25 years he could sincerely say that the School had never been for more than a short time absent from his thoughts when he had been awake, and he might almost add from his dreams when he had been asleep. An occasion such as that might be held to excuse, and for that matter even to demand, some words of a personal nature which under ordinary circumstances would remain unsaid. And they would not misunderstand him when he said that, conscious as he was of having made many mistakes, conscious as he was of many faults both of commission and omission—upon which he would not now enlarge, and which he hoped those who knew him would not judge uncharitably—they would not misunderstand him when he declared that, in endeavouring to further the usefulness of the School, and in a desire to promote the best interests of every individual boy who had come under his care, he had never spared himself one single ounce, or hesitated to exert to the utmost all the strength he possessed. (Applause). If he ventured now for a passing moment to speak about himself, it was because their kindness compelled it. It was because, when a man had gone on steadily working with a fixed object in view, he was not unlikely to offend the susceptibilities of others, and their generous kindness was a mark that they at all events valued the work that had been done, and had kindly thoughts for the unworthy instrument of the work, whatever opinion they might privately—especially in the period of exuberant youth—have formed of the particular methods by which certain results had been accomThe spontaneous expression of their kindly plished. feeling towards him, which had taken the form of that valuable and beautiful service of plate, was for a long time quite unknown to him. In fact he -was, he thought, about the last person concerned to hear anything of it. But the fact made his gratitude to them all the greater, and he offered them his heartfelt thanks.; The present,
and the touching address, would be a cherished possession as long as he lived, and when he had passed away it would descend as a precious heirloom. (Applause). That assembly was intended to mark the fact that the School was now 25 years old. He did not propose to weary them with a detailed history of those years. Perhaps, indeed, in that connection, and in deprecation of any lengthened address, he might venture to quote the words which the pious ^Eneas used as a reason why he ought not to tell the tale of Troy—words which they read with enthralled interest—(laughter)— when they were at School, and which had since lingered in their minds as a delightful memory:—"Et iam nox humida caelo praecipitat suadentque cadentia sidera somnos." When the School opened on the ist of May, 1877, about 160 boys walked in. Those boys were drawn from various quarters, and their classification was a matter of some anxiety. The first difficulty was to get them placed approximately in their proper classes, and the next to form a tone in the School. Happily, he had the help of excellent assistant-masters. Fortunately, too, he had in the elder boys who had joined the school some who entered into the new conditions with a determination to make the school worthy of the town, and who, spreading their influence among the younger boys, gave that indescribable feeling called tone, which it was his earnest desire to create. Foremost among those elder boys was one who had always remained a staunch supporter of the School and an intimate personal friend of his own, their president that evening, Mr. Francis Hewitt. (Applause). In organising that School, the governors—from whom he had always received the greatest kindness, and with whom he had never had the slightest friction—were kind enough to leave him entirely unfettered. His aim had always been, so far as the secular part of their education was concerned, to train the minds of those who came into the school to concentrated attention on the point under immediate consideration, and at the same time to develop in everyone the habit of work. He mentioned that because he had always held that, apart altogether from the value of any particular subject, the way in which it was taught, and the way in which it was learned by the pupil, was the main thing to be cared for from the point of view of education. (Applause). When he looked round on an assembly like that, which consisted of young men engaged, and successfully engaged, in businesses and professions in that town, he was hopeful that the methods employed had not been altogether unsuccessful. (Applause). Many of the pupils of that School had, of course, been scattered over the world. That must be expected of the sons of an imperial race. And it was one of the pleasantest features of his work that he continually received letters from old boys in all parts of the world in which they expressed their affection for the School, and their gratitude for the education they received there. But after all the number of old pupils who went to the colonies or elsewhere abroad was as only a small portion of the whole. Most of them remained in Leicester, either
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THE VIGORNIAN.
to carry on businesses which had been already established, or, when their turn came, to establish others. At their last annual dinner, they were just emerging from a great struggle, and their talk was of Imperial duties and of Imperial responsibilities. Those duties and those responsibilities, noqe iQijlhem would desire for a moment to be-little. But ihere was a patriotism nearer home. The government of that great town must be to thinking men, a matter of great anxiety, and it would tax all the energies, and would demand the best intelligence of the rising generation of citizens. Those demands on their public spirit they must meet with earnestness, with zeal, with temper, and, above all, with a desire not to grind each his own particular axe, but with a desire, a disinterested desire, to promote the welfare of their fellowcitizens, and to raise that old historic town to the front rank among the cities of the empire. (Applause). The age of chivalry was not dead. They might still be Crusaders. They must still be the Soldiers of the Cross. They must devote their lives as truly as any knight of old to the work of the Lord. It was not the armour that made the knight. Twentieth century broad-cloth might cover a heart as true and noble as a twelfth century coat of mail. They need be clad in no glittering panoply; they need assume no material cross as the badge of their soldiership; they need make no long journeys over land and sea to fight a distant foe. They could find enemies enough at their own doors. Let them contend against ignorance, and the vice that came of ignorance; against questionable methods in commerce, and the recklessness in business that came of the undue haste for riches. And then, although they bounded their horizon by the hills of their native county, though they never wandered like the knight errant of old into distant lands, yet, when the end came they would have the satisfaction of knowing that in their day and generation they had done their duty, and that they were leaving the world better than they found it. (Loud applause).
J. K. Deakin (1892-95) sailed for S. Africa, to join the S. A. Constabulary, on January 24th. A. R. Littlebury (1879-81) has gone to New Zealand. A. T. Marshall (1892-99) passed both parts of Law Special and took his degree in June, 1902 (this was omitted from last list). A. P. Norton (1884-87) has been appointed to the permanent staff of the Victoria Institute Day School. , f,. F. C. Richines (1889-95) nas been ordained and appointed to the curacy of Ramsey, Isle of Man.
O. S. Spark (1889-93), formerly organist and choir master of St. Michael's, Worcester, has been appointed to a similar position at the Dutch Reformed Church, Buitenkant Street, Cape Town. P. B. Wright (1879-86), sailed for Natal in January. MARRIAGE. FOSTER—NICHOLLS.—On December 3ist, at the Parish Church, Dawlish, by the Rev. W. P. Alford (Vicar), assisted by the Rev. G. A. Browning, Albert Vincent Foster, son of William Foster, of London Road, Worcester, to Annie Nicholls, daughter of the late Joseph Nicholls, Seavington House, Ilminster.
DEATH. LEIGH.—On July 22, 1901, at East Molesey, Henry Harington Leigh, aged 43.
The following new members have joined: C. E. Abell (1897-1902), Ronkswood, Worcester, and C. D. Bladon (1863-1865), Melton Road, King's Heath, Birmingham. gettev. Dear Sirs, Although there are now only three O.V.'s in residence, it seems that a letter must be written. With regard to the O.V.'s here: —L. Sampson has got " Greats " on in June, and his time is fully occupied with that; J. D. Day divides his time between playing " Soccer" an3 work; while M. Bates spends most of his time at the Museum dissecting frogs, etc.—his spare moments being apparently given to coaching his college torpid. So far for the O.V.'s. To turn to more general news. The visit of the Canadian football team proved rather an attraction, but the 'Varsity won fairly easily. Since then, however, they have been Tieaten by Guy's Hospital and Lennox, two rather weak teams. The Soccer team are expected to win the 'Varsity match,
THE VIGORNIAN. but the eight this year seems rather below the average and Cambridge will probably repeat last year's victory. The Torpids are also rather a poor lot this year, but most of the crews have lost some of their numbers owing to the prevailing influenza. In conclusion, we wish the School Four good luck in their race with Hereford this year. Yours sincerely, OXON.
185
There is keen competition for the three vacant places in the Boat this year. Chapman, the President, has been coaching so far, but he intends to row, and as he is seen " tubbing " on both stroke and bow side it is a matter of speculation as to who is keeping a seat warm for him. The crew gives grounds for hoping that we shall repeat last year's victory, and with a wish that this anticipation may not invoke the Nemesis, We remain, Yours sincerely,
CANTAB. Dear Sirs, The state of mind produced by " Hall" is not as a rule favourable to deep thought of any kind, Recount. much less to the severe strain imposed upon the speculative and imaginative faculties by the com1902. RECEIPTS. £ s. 1. position of a Vigornian letter. But in deference Oct. gth. Balance in hand ... ii 16 44 to Editorial demands w.e must rack our brains Nov. 26th. School House Entertainment (for for news. new boat) ... ... ... 5 0 0 1903. Our sole representative in the world of aquatic 18 18 o sport is N. M. Fergusson, who pulls an oar with Jan. 26th. Boys' Subscriptions wonted energy in the Magdalene boat. He is £35 making the most of the few days that remain EXPENDITURE. d. 1902 £ before the iron discipline of training for the Oct. 25th. Linesman & telegram,Cheltenham o 10 Lents closes upon him. Secretary's Expenses 6 j> )» S. G. Simpson looked like business yesterday Nov. 8th. Gunn & Moore (football outfit) 3 when he was seen carrying an armful of histori„ 12th. Linesman and telegram, cal volumes from the Union library, which he Wolverhampton o 4 4 proposes to digest for " special" purposes. He Irons for nets ... o i o lately read to a select and appreciative circle a „ i8th. Water Rate ... ' O IO O paper which treated, so far as we could learn, of „ 24th. Gunn & Moore 3 archaeological matters generally. The midnight „ 26th. Linesman to Hereford (with gleam which flickers from the window of King's telegram) o 3 tower betokens that he pores late into the night „ agth. O ^ a » O 2 over classical scrolls; he confesses that the Dec. gth. Football Secretary „ igth. Hutchinson o 7 Tripos, which is not due till next May, begins to Ferry for visiting teams ... o 4 ») j> loom larger each week. Neither he nor N. „ 2oth. Pavilion glass O IO King indulge in any specific form of exercise; Goal Posts O 2 both have forsaken the river after long and Cricket board in Pavilion o 9 constant devotion. King, it is reported, occaFives Court Door o 16 sionally keeps himself fit by a little private Baylis & Lewis (fixture cards) ... o 14 steeplechasing over the furniture of his room, to 1903. the great disgust of the man who " keeps " below Jan. 2oth. Secretary 0 8 0 him. >• Feb. and. Rowing Captain to Oxford o 10 o Davenport has been incapacitated by a 0 2 6 Ward (Broom) ••• ;-}. •. sprained ankle from participating in the agitaHutchinson (football bladder) ... 0 2 6 tious whirligig of 'Varsity life ; he still " digs far 23rd. Bennett (photos) 0 7 0 from the maddening crowd," and an air of Balance ... ... :... 21 II II mystery surrounds his doings, which we have not had time to penetrate. £35 '4 4i We heartily congratulate Smifeb, on his gaining T. E. RAMMELL. Hon. Treas. a Scholarship at Sidney and hope that others and found correct, W. H. CHAPPEL, will follow in his steps to keep alive the name of Examined Feb. 25th. Headmaster. Worcester at that seat of learning.
THE VIGORNIAN.
186
Jlccounf. CHRISTMAS TERM, 1902. RECEIPTS. Balance Jan. 3ist. Per Headmaster— Subscriptions Vigornians ... Pound ... ...
... 13 10 o ... 2 16 6 ... o 5 1 1
Dec. rSth, O.V. Club, (per F. W. Webb, Esq.)
Dec. i8th. ,, Jan. 23rd. „ 26th. ,, 27th. ,, aSth.
£ s. d. '5 19 4
i6 12 5 7 19 4
EXPENDITURE. £ s. d. Large (Papers) 2 15 i Walter & Houghton (Books) ... i 19 4 Humphreys (Bookbinding) 0 2 6 Deighton (Books) 1 3 0 Green (Slides) i i o Baylis & Son (Vigornians) 13 14 6 Hooper (Encyc. Brit.) 3 4 ° G. W. Railway (Carriage) o 12 7 Sundries o 3 10 Balance 'S 15 3
W. A. T. JARRETT, Hon. Treasurer. Audited and found correct, W. H. CHAPPEL, Headmaster.
called the King's Scholars, and it certainly was a " Grammar School" and often called so (1591, etc.), though probably less often, to avoid confusion with the school in the city. In the same way it appears sometimes to have been called the " Free School," which makes it difficult to determine at which of the two schools some famous men were educated. It was also occasionally called " The Grammar School in the Cathedral Church" (1564), but never, so far as I have found, " The Cathedral School." So, as all the above names have been used at different times, and there seems no great reason for one as against another, I fear my notes add little or nothing to the settlement of this debated point. Mr. Steward is right when he speaks of " The Grammar School" . being " established " by Queen Elizabeth, but it was no more founded by her than was the King's School by Henry VIII. Yours faithfully,
J. K. FLOYER. Cathedral Library.
THE O.V. CRICKET MATCH. To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Re Cricket Match, School v. O.V.'s, July ij, 1902.
gtorrespon&mce. All letters intended for insertion in these columns must be authenticated by the name and address of the sender, not necessarily for publication, hut as evidence of good faith. Every facility will be afforded for the discussion of matters of interest to the School, but a rigid compliance with this rule will be enforced. The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for the opinions of correspondents.
THE SCHOOL TITLE.
To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Dear Sirs* I have been looking among my notes to see if anything .would throw light upon the muchcontroverted question of the School title. Anciently, that is after Henry VIII.'s time, it had different names, the most common being " The High School" (1555) and " The College School" (1650). But it was also called "The King's School" (1626 and 1644), as the scholars were
Dear Sirs, With regard to the omission of the result of the above match in the last issue of the " Vigornian," may I be allowed to suggest to the cricket authorities, that in order to avoid the recurrence of the same thing in the future, the records of all matches should be kept in a proper bound regulation scoring book, such as is in general use in most cricket clubs of any note. I think by so doing, they would not only save themselves a considerable amount of time in " finding" them when required, but in all probability would greatly assist you, as Editors, in getting your materials together in good time for the issue of your publication. I must confess to a little personal annoyance and disappointment when I found that the O.V. match had been omitted, and perhaps only naturally, when I had gone to some trouble to get together a fairly representative XL, who could at any rate give the School a good game ; but it was mainly on account of those O.V.'s who had come long distances and af considerable expense and incon-
187
THE VIGORNIAN. venience on purpose to play. I allude chiefly to W. H. Counsel!, who came all the way from Sevenoaks, Kent, and P. B. Wright, from Stone, Staffs, the former of whom played a most brilliant innings, and with C. L. Davey (who also played a splendid innings) knocked up over 100 for the first wicket. I am sorry if I have spoken strongly on the matter, but I feel strongly, especially when it was obvious to everyone present that another 10 or 15 minutes at the most would have given the O.V.'s a brilliant victory. I am, Sirs, Yours faithfully,
F. MAURICE WEBB. The Climb, Bath Road, Worcester,
THE BICYCLE SHED. To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Dear Sirs, I wish to call the attention of the authorities to the state of the bicycle shed. I do not hesitate to say that this shed is totally unfit for sheltering bicycles for any length of time, as it is entirely unprotected on the one side, firstly, from rain and sun, and, secondly, from the detrimental influences of cricketers and footballers. Could not something be done to remedy this, so that boarders as well as dayboys might risk their bicycles in the shed? Yours truly,
CYCLENSIS. "jZfatrici BOER WAR 1899-1902.
CLAXTON, F. H. (I.M.R.), died at Bloemfontein,
Jan. 9th, 1902. HARRINGTON, E. H. (5th I.Y.), killed at Nooitgedacht, Oct. i/th, 1900. ROAN, J. E. (5th I.Y.), died at Mafeking, Oct. 22nd, 1900. JoURDAIN, H. A., 2nd Scottish Horse. LITTLE, J., Capt, Adjut. and Brevet-Major, 2nd Northamptons. PATTLE, R. J. H., Lieut. 2nd Northumberland ,i Fusiliers.
PEARSON, A. C. D., Lieut, ist Yorks. PEARSON, V. L. N., Lieut., 6th and 3rd
Middlesex. ROWE, A. V., Corporal, R.E. SALUSBURY, R. T. G., Lieut, and Acting-Adjut, 5th S. W. Borderers. SECCOMBE, E. A. J., C.I.V. STEWARD, S. J., Cambridge Univ.: Section ist Suffolk. THOMAS, F. R., C.I.V. WALLER, C. W. F., Imp. Light Horse. WALLIS, H. J. F., 2nd Lieut, 6th Manchester. WILLIAMS, A. B., 33rd I.Y. NEEDHAM, W. H., gth New Zealanders. WILSON, M. R., Lieut, logth I.Y. g above is a copy of the board now on the north wall of the College Hall. The idea has also been mooted of painting the names of the IV. and Football teams on the panels of the oak. Ebenr. Baylis & Son, Printers, 22, Cross and Trinity Works, Worcester.