The Vigornian March 1927

the Uivjornian. THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE, " TO. juer ciSaKTa fittrOat'ia, TCI c £nr&, ra 5' ei/Kra iraofi Se(ti'

No. 118.

VOL. IX.

Contents. Editorial School Notes School Calendar ... O.V. Xews Ketch Run P.T. Competition The Concert ... - ... Lecture Society ... ... ... ... ... Debating Society Motor Car Trip from Chauk to Kalaw Southern Shan States during July 1925 Rugger 1926 Chess Xotes O.T.C. Notes Shooting Fives Rowing Cricket Prospect ... The Snare ... The Essay Competition ... A Song of the Mustard Club The Adventure of the Tiresome Tribune A Fable School Officers Salvete Valete ]. \\\ The Library The Oxford Letter Oxford Old Vigornians' Dinner Correspondence Contemporaries Library Account ... Games Account ...

MARCH, Page

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1927.

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editorial. " Sumer is icumen in Lhude sing cuccu."

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520 522 523 524 S24 525 525 526 526 527 527 528 528 529 529 529 529 53<> S3i1 S3 S3i 532

In other words it's Spring, and Editors, together with all other good men, should feel happy and well-disposed towards mankind. But -we feel neither happy nor welldisposed towards mankind. We are unhappy because this Vigornian, on which we have spent labour unceasing, time infinite, thought inconceivable and even, at times, love, as a mother to her child, over which we have burnt midnight oil and spilt Swan ink, has turned out a disappointment. We had visions of a wonderful literary triumph, of a magazine brilliant with innumerable gems of wit and literary genius, poetry and prose. A magazine on which all could look back and say, " Do you remember that Vigornian of March, 1927? Wasn't it excellent?" But those hopes are shattered. Our castle of dreams is vanished and we are come to earth before the crude reality. We may fairly claim to have recorded with minute accuracy all the events of the term. But our ambition had taught us to hope for something more than mere accuracy, the automatic recording of events. We had hoped to inspire the Vigornian with some sort of character of its own. As it is, it has about as much of a character of its own as a tradesman's circular. But perhaps we are too embittered by the rude shattering of our ambitious hopes. Anyhow we feel that the lack of original contributions is due to you. We have approached innumerable

THE VIGORNIAN. people from whom after tactful cajoling we have exacted promises for contributions. Evidently promises like castles in the air are shattered almost as soon as they are made.

held on February igth, and trust that they did equally well in the written part.

We shall doubtless be just as hopeful at the beginning of next term for the young Vigornian. You have ambitious Editors, please, please, PLEASE help them.

The concert at the end of last term, despite the efforts of critics during the whole of the term to shew us that nobody could possibly enjoy the Elijah, was a great success. Mr. Day and the Choir are to be congratulated.

Forgive us our bitterness. Perhaps it is not so bad as we think. Perhaps after all this is a bit more than a mere record of events. Tell us it is all jolly good, for a change, and all send contributions. Then, by Jove ! We'll have something really good next term !

Rowing is again in full swing, and we hear that great hopes are entertained of sending a really good crew up to Marlowe.

School Dotes. We welcome this term Mr. Halcomb, who has come in the place of Mr. Rowsell. * * * We take this opportunity of congratulating Miss Lowe, who is engaged to be married to Mr. J. A. Heritage, of Coolinge Farm, Folkestone. The marriage will probably take place on April 27th. In Miss Lowe's place we will welcome next term C. I. Record, O.V. * » * At the time of writing the Field Day is still a thing of the future, but we have no doubt that we will be favoured with the usual fine weather. Boxing has flourished this term under the able guidance of Mr. Tom Andrews, who has now quite a number of students of the noble art. We have had several paper-chases this term, which have proved very popular, although only once have the hares been caught. On one occasion, however, several hounds, who had lost the track in the town reached home before the hares. * # # The P.T. Competition was pronounced by the SergeantInstructor who judged it to have been of a higher standard than last year. The Hostel again won the Cup. They are making quite a hobby of it.

We may congratulate ourselves on freedom from the 'flu epidemic. Though individuals here and there fell victims we can claim that the School as a whole never got it.

We congratulate those members of the Corps who passed ihe practical part of the Certificate " A " examination,

St. Wulstan's Day, January igth, has been placed in the Church Calendar of the New Prayer Book. Ought we not to have a holiday on this day? * * * The Ketch Run took place on Feb. I4th. Garnett won in 21 minutes 364-5 sees. Arbuckle was second and Hornblower third. * * * In the competition for the Warren Cup Day Boys were first with 52 points, Castle House second with 75 points, and School House third with 90 points. Chess is in full swing, as usual, and two matches have so far been played this term, the details of which will be found elsewhere. * * * The Concert of Chamber Music which took place on February igth was very much enjoyed, and we sincerely hope in future many more such concerts may be arranged. * * » Fives has been played as enthusiastically as «ver this term. The School ist IV gained an easy victory over Bromsgrove, and at the time of writing a doubles handicap competition is in progress. * * * The Sports will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 5th and 6th, subject to the permission of " fair Sabrina." The Bicycle Race has at last been struck out of the programme, for which blessing we are truly thankful. We wonder that it lasted as long as it did. * * » A tree has been planted in the middle of one of the grass plots in the Quadrangle. What kind of tree we know not, and trespassing upon the grass being prosecuted, we are unable to read the delightful little pink label which hangs from it. * * * The small organ has been removed from the Nave of the Cathedral to the College Hall, but the piano still continues to be used for the hymn at prayers in the morning. * » *

THE VIGORNIAN. The ceiling of the Reading Room has been considerably improved by the addition of beams. The lighting has also been considerably improved. * * # We have not yet commented on the floods, and we are not going to. We might not be polite.

Scbool Calendar. Fri., Sat., Sat.,

Jan. 21. Boarders return. Feb. 5. Entertainment by Hospital Trio. by Admiral Cuming on „ 12. Lecture " Zeebrugge." Mon., '4- Ketch Run. i Garnett, 2 Arbuckle, 3 Hornblower. Sat., 19. Certificate " A " Practical Exam. Concert of Chamber Music in College »» Hall. Wed., 23- P.T. Competition, i Hostel, 2 Castle House, 3 Day Boys. Wed., Mar. 2. Ash-Wednesday. School Service 9 a.m. Sat., „ 5. Lecture by Mr. Cressy on " Bridges." Tues., ,, 8. Certificate " A " Written Exam. Thurs., „ 10. School Service 3 p.m. Preacher : Bishop Gresford-Jones. Wed., 16. Field Day with Cheltenham, Marlborough, Dean Close and Monkton Coombe. 3 p.m. Preacher: Thurs., 17- School Service. Rev. C. Storrs. Fri., Apr. i. Confirmation. Tues., „ 5. Sports. Wed., „ 6. Sports. Thurs., „ 7. School Concert. Fri., „ 8. Exeunt Omnes.

O.V. RCUJS. The O.V. Reunion and Dinner will take place on Saturday, July gth, and members of the O.V. Club will be sent full particulars in June. » * rf W. Benton Evans was awarded a Soccer Blue last term at Oxford University. T. M, L. Redmond is with a tutor at Portishead. We regret that owing to a misunderstanding we reported in our last issue that he was intending to take the Army Exam. This is untrue. He is preparing for an Engineering Exam. J. N. B. Lander, at the recent examination held in London, was successful in passing the Preliminary Examination of the Surveyors' Institution.

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M. E. Webb has been home on four months' leave and returned to the Sudan on December 2gth. While home took his B.A. degree, Hertford College, Oxford. He is growing cotton and with the Sudan Plantations Syndicate. D. Webb completed three years at Birmingham University last year, taking his B.Sc. degree. Has now proceeded to Emmanuel College, Cambridge, for two years' research work under Sir William Pope. " Norman King has been made Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George, in recognition of his services as British Consul in Mexico City. He is now Consul at Barcelona," writes Major S. C. Simpson, O.V., who is himself at the Duke of York's Royal Military School, Dover. F. H. Burden is now with Henry Burden Jnr & Coy, Ltd., steamship owners and brokers, West Shore Wharf, Poole. J. S. R. Hall writes from c/o S. T. Tookey, Esq., " Yaamba," Berrima, New South Wales. He says the climate is very like that of England ; it rains most of the time. He has moved to Berrima from Ulinda. He writes of a bush fire which burnt 7,000 acres at Gowang. " On one occasion we got at it at daylight on Saturday morning (about 3.30 a.m.) and worked without a stop till about 6.30 p.m. on the Monday evening, 60 hours, with very little to eat or drink." E. Rice-Jones has been changed to the Chester branch of Lloyd's Bank from Huddersfield. His address therefore is now 75, Panton Road, Hoole, Chester. O. Cockle has been to Townsville, North Queensland, where he met:— Canon H. F. N. Eldershaw, who has been made SubDean of Townsville Cathedral, and also the Bishop of Carpentaria, an old Herefordian who used to row against the School. S. M. Alexander sailed for Canada on March 3rd. He has been sent to the Toronto Offices of the Commercial Bank of Canada. C. A. C. Patton writes from Royal Air Force, Amman, Transjordan, where he is now stationed. He says thafc it is miles from anywhere, and the only place one can go to is Jerusalem, which involves a journey costing £6. He has to make long flights to watch the movements of the tribes, and look out for raiding parties. A. H. Adams, who is a master at King's School, Grantham, is engaged to be married to Miss Joyce Wentworth. Captain C. W. P. Ludlow is with the ist Battalion the Somerset Light Infantry at Ismailia, on the Suez Canal.

THE VIGORNIAN.

Keicb Run. The Annual Ketch Run took place on February i-jth, under ideal conditions for running. The fact that there were 130 competitors shows the keen interest that is taken in the race. From the outset Garnett led the field in the open group and retained this lead throughout the race. On reaching the Tram Terminus, he overtook the leader of the junior group, and passed the winning post quite 100 yards ahead of Arbuckle (open) 2nd, covering the course in 21 minutes 364-5 seconds, a highly creditable performance. Hornblower (open) who has not yet attained the age of 16, ran a very good race to fill the 3rd place. At the conclusion, R. A. Warren, Esq., gave away the cup, which was presented by him some years ago, in memory of his son, the late M. Warren, O.V., to the winning house, namely, Day Boys. Results :— " WARREN " CUP. 52 points. i. Day Boys 2. Castle House 75 ., 3. School House ... 9° ,» 4. Hostel "5 .. 190 „ 5. Natland " DAY " CUP(Individual) Under 15. Broadhurst. Richards Mayhew Bridgeman.

Open. i. Garnett. 2. Arbuckle. 3- Hornblower. 4- Matheson.

Garnett. Under 13. Shrimpton Royle iii. Clinch ii. Royle ii.

POINTS FOR HOUSE CHALLENGE SHIELD. Day Boys Castle House School House Natland Hostel

28 points.

P.C. Competition. The general appearance of the Massed Squads was somewhat altered by the innovation of short trousers in the place of long. Although perhaps they were not so well to look upon, they were undoubtedly more comfortable and facilitated the movements of the competitors. We once again welcomed Sergeant-Instructor Ince, who came to judge for the third time. There is nothing to describe in the performance except that the Hostel Pyramid called forth the usual applause. It seems a great pity that other squads do not follow their example.

After barely an hour, a shorter time than usual, the competitors were fallen in to hear the result. After a short speech from the Sergeant-Instructor, who, remarking on the closeness of the squads, stated that there had been a great improvement on last year's performances, and that every squad had attained a high standard, it was once again announced that the Hostel had retained the Cup, Castle House being second and Day Boys third. The Hostel team was as follows :— C. E. Porter (leader), R. H. N. Wood, E. J. Granger, G. D. S. Boole, A. E. Blackband, G. H. Carrel, E. W. Parsons.

Cbe Concert. There was hardly an empty seat in College Hall on Monday, December 20, when Mr. E. F. Day and the School Choir embarked upon the " Elijah." There had been a certain amount of criticism even in the School itself, when it became known that it was intended to produce the Elijah for the end-of-term Concert, criticism based mainly on the unsuitability of a sacred Oratorio for such an occasion, and the supposed incapability of the School Choir to do justice to such a piece. As the Headmaster himself said, he left the performance to answer for itself. By 7.45 the filled Hall had dealt satisfactorily with the first half of the criticism, and it was only left to the actual performance itself to defeat completely all that remained of the malcontents. It was with great pleasure that we welcomed C. I. Record, O.V., who came down to take the part of Elijah, and Mr. E. H. Basden, of the Cathedral Choir, who was taking the tenor solos. From the very first notes of the Introduction Elijah's quiet, unstrained, confident voice impressed and delighted the audience, and this first impression steadily increased as the performance continued. Mr. Basden, too, although the tenor part is by no means as large as the bass, managed to leave behind him a most happy impression of his capabilities. But it was really the School Choir which mattered; it was their duty to render the choruses in such a manner as to leave no doubt as to their capability to do justice to the Oratorio. And the result was a veritable triumph over the critics. All the choruses were splendidly done and it is most difficult to say which was the finest. " Be not afraid," " Behold God the Lord," and " Then did Elijah," were all magnificent, and Mr. Day is to be congratulated upon the result achieved. The choir deserved great praise ; a minor point about them which consciously impressed some of the audience and unconsciously affected the rest, was the obvious enjoyment visible on their faces during the performance. Once again R. P. C. Bagnall sang the soprano solos, and it can certainly be said that he did full justice to his part. His long solo at the beginning of the second half, '' Hear, ye Israel! '' was admirably rendered.

THE VIGORNIAN. During the interval which followed, the Headmaster took the opportunity to congratulate Mr. Day and the Choir, to thank the soloists for the way they had assisted, and to say how grateful he was to Claude Brown, O.V., for once again rendering invaluable service as accompanist. He said that the School, by so accomplishing the Elijah had reached a definite land-mark. The Choir had not only derived the greatest interest in practising it but also had received a most valuable education.

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There followed a very short prize-giving, when Mrs. Moore-Ede presented prizes for the following :

On Saturday, February i2th, we had a very interesting lecture by Admiral Cuming, on " Zeebrugge." The lecturer soon endeared himself to his audience by his obvious enthusiasm for his subject. He explained every detail of Sir Roger Keyes' plan without once becoming long-winded or dull. He then told the story of that memorable night on the eve of St. George's Day. It would be impossible here to record all the innumerable deeds of heroism described to us by Admiral Cuming. Sufficient to say that it was a yarn thrilling in every detail. Admiral Cuming then described to us some of the latest types of warship, and gave some astonishing details about torpedoes. The prize offered by Admiral Cuming for the best essay on " Zeebrugge " was won by Garnett.

FORM PRIZES. SUMMER 1926. Upper V, M. R. A. Ainslie; Mid. V, F. H. Yarnold; Lower V, P. Bowles ; Remove, S. Bate ; Upper IV, J. R. A. Embling; Mid. IV, T. S. Broadhurst ; Lower IV, D. VV. G. Steele; III, J. L. Richards; II, M. H. Cullen.

When we saw that we were going to have a recital of Classical Music, our hearts inwardly quaked although we put on good faces. We feared that we might rise from our seats at the end feeling thoroughly bored. We did rise from our seats at the end, but it was in order to give three rousing cheers for the performers who had kept us delighted for an hour and a half and had made us ask for more.

MATHEMATICAL SETS. Aa, F. H. Yarnold ; B 2 , T. S. Broadhurst; A3, W. Hornblower; 83, G. E. Walker; .<\4, W. E. A. Brown; 64, G. P. F. Taylor; Bi, C. F. A. Assheton; Lower School, M. H. Cullen.

Each item in the excellent programme was delightful. The " trio " surpassed anything of the kind that has been heard in College Hall before. The soloist, Miss Sybil Cropper, cannot be criticised by our musical knowledge ; it is sufficient to say that we could imagine nobody better. Even the most " modern " of us cannot fail to hope that we shall have the delightful privilege of hearing them again some day. * # *

By way of connecting the singing of the School Song and Aulcl Lang Syne with the rest of the programme, the Headmaster had asked a " quartet " whom he had heard previously in a private concert earlier in the term to sing quite informally three little songs. The idea being that this quartet was the production of the School itself without any outside help at all. The three pieces were from " Lilac Time," and the quartet, C. LI. Garnett, M. J. C. Stanley, C. P. Longland, C. Glutton, made them very pleasant by the absolute lack of formality. The School Song was rendered with plenty of spirit, and after " God Save the King " and " Auld Lang Syne " the usual hearty cheering ended a most delightful and successful concert, to which perhaps the presence of so many Old Boys added a particular brightness.

Cccture Society. On Saturday, February 5th, the Hospital Three gave an entertainment in College Hall. There is no getting away from the fact that this was rather disappointing; whether it was the fault of the artistes, or that we were " blas£ " we do not know. The proceedings certainly livened up a bit at the end when the School were invited to join in some of the choruses, but we had rather too much of this even by the end. The object, however, of the entertainers was good, and we ought really to be glad to have had this opportunity of contributing something to the London hospitals. * * #

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On Saturday, March 5th, Mr. Edward Cressy gave us a very interesting lecture upon the subject of " Wonderful Bridges." The first bridges of any length to be built were, we were told, tubular, that is to say they consisted of specially strengthened steel tubes supported by piers, a method which originated in George Stevenson. After the disaster of the Tay Bridge, however, the general public demanded something especially strong in the way of bridges, and upon the principle of the cantilever the Forth Bridge was built, despite the severe criticism of the American engineer who was afterwards to build the ill-fated bridge over the St. Lawrence at Quebec. We were now taken to America, where we beheld some of the marvels of engineering in the trestle bridges conveying the railway over valley and lake on its journey from ocean to ocean. The perfection of the art, however, seemed to have been reached in those bridges whose single slender arches we saw poised so delicately in the air that it seemed impossible that they should have been created by the hand of man. Where a very long span, however, is required, suspension bridges are built, whereby the main position of the bridge is suspended by means of steel ropes passed over a tower on either side and securely fastened to the shore. From steel bridges we passed to those of masonry and concrete, and we were shown how the true engineer so plans his bridge that be-

THE VIGORNIAN. sides being useful it is decorative and harmonises with its surroundings, as in the case of the Tower Bridge over the Thames. In conclusion, Mr. Cressy made us realise, possibly for the first time, the enormous amount of time and money expended in the construction of these bridges, and how many men devote their lives to the furtherance of science in this direction.

Debating Socletp. President, The Headmaster ; Chairman, A. D. Franklin, Esq. ; Secretary, G. Boole; Committee, C. E. Coverdale, C P. Longland, J. R. Wingfield-Digby, M. J. C. Stan'ey, J. B. Edwards, C. LI. Garnett, H. F. Langstaff, D. A. B. Hopkin.

Columbus for the evils of chewing-gum, Trans-atlantic slang, and mass-production, because the poor fellow had not the faintest idea what he was doing. He thought he was in India. Mr. Taylor, in a speech combining humour with sound sense and hard facts, looked at the question from an historical point of view. The discovery of America had upset the world. It had been responsible both directly and indirectly for many wars and much bloodshed. The Americans themselves were a very shallow people. From the House Messrs. Glutton and Cockle supported the motion, and Messrs. Hopkin, Brighouse and Blackall opposed it. The Proposer and Opposer then summed up, and on a vote being taken the motion was carried by 38 votes to 21. G. B.

So far this term only two debates have been held, but both of them were extremely interesting. On Saturday, February 5th, a meeting of the Society was held in College Hall, when the Secretary proposed " that in a hundred years the coloured races will rule the world." He urged the house not to be led away by the false patriotism which said that every white man was worth ten dirty niggers. The white man was losing his hold, due in part to the internal troubles at home. Mr. Hopkin opposed the motion. He said that the behaviour of the British sailors in China bore witness to the superiority of the white man. Mr. Wingfield-Digby supported him, declaring that the motion was nothing more than a vote of "no confidence " in our own country. Messrs. Garret and Carrel spoke from the House, and Mr. Franklin vacated the chair to say that in his opinion the increase in the number of Chinese laundries in Worcester was a sign of the growing influence of the coloured races in our very midst. The Proposer and Opposer then summed up, and en being put to the vote the motion was lost. On Saturday, March 5th, a meeting of the Society was held in College Hall, when Mr. Coverdale proposed " that this House considers that Christopher Columbus is not to be blamed for discovering America." He said that though others might be flippant he was going to be serious about this serious question. The reputation of a great man was at stake. He admitted that Columbus had discovered America, but he thought America an excellent place, and went so far as to praise the American Constitution at the expense of the British. The Secretary opposed the motion. He agreed that Columbus had discovered America. But he thought Columbus was to be blamed for finding a place where the scum of the earth could spend their unholy lives free from interference. Mr. J. R. Wingfield-Digby supported the motion. He said that we could not blame

l»otor-car Crip from Cbauk to KalatD, Southern Shan Stales, during

Dulp, 1925. nth July. The car used was a 1922 Model " Ford.' The body had been removed and replaced by two '"bucket " seats, and the rake, of the steering wheel was lowered. A light hood was fitted. The petrol tank was changed to a higher position behind the seat and underneath it a small tool box and food box were fitted. One emergency gallon of petrol was carried, also one of lubricating oil, one pound of grease and one spare wheel complete. Myself and Mr. F. and his Lugaly were the party. On the nth of July we left Chauk Club Compound at 12 noon. The weather was fine but looking a little doubtful. Two miles from our starting point Singu-Chaung, almost one mile wide, was crossed without any difficulty. The route led through the villages of Singu, Onmya, Bogyin and Nachiboung. At Onmya village we made a stop for water; the radiator having developed a leak, though not serious. At this place we met the Burman who has not yet come in daily and constant contact with civilisation, to whom the advent of the car caused a certain amount of excitement, and everybody was willing to help; one scantily clad woman helper was a little embarrassing. After Nachiboung we lost the track temporarily, but recovered the trail and took shelter and rested at Windy Hotel, Zayat. Rain fell for about an hour and a half. Engine trouble developed and caused some anxiety. We examined the petrol feed and came to the conclusion that it was water in the petrol; this was partly true. We cleaned the plugs, timing gear, and magneto post, which were found to be dirty, but the trouble continued. There was no shorting in the wires. The engine would fire for about a hundred yards, travel and then stop. This happened repeatedly, and involved constant cranking, and to add to our trouble, rain started again. There was a considerable " wind-up." After another cleaning of the magneto post, everything was O.K.

THE VIGORNIAN. except the roads, which became awful and had really bad centres due to bullock wheels wearing deep ruts ; one false move and we would have broken the back of the car. We disconnected the head lights in case of power leaking from the wiring and our troubles were at an end. We ran perfectly over very sandy roads into Kyaukpadoung, just reaching the dak bungalow as another rain stream broke. We visited the hospital and found the Burmese doctor very obliging; he lent us a compounder as assistant, who promptly engaged a cooly for " boy." The cook, Mr. F.'s Lugaly, was provided with money and proceeded to purchase and prepare dinner. Meanwhile, with the compounder as guide, we roamed the town, and bought beer, extra provision, and visited the places of interest; of these the visit to the local lapidary proved the most interesting. Here we saw curious flattened translucent cones of stone in which were parallel lines of whitish, yellowish and opaque matter in a clear design closely resembling a Burmese Pagoda, hence the name, " Pagoda Stone." The Government dak bungalow in which we spent the night is well designed and commodious, though naturally sparingly furnished; crockery was available, but no cutlery. We had provided against this possibility. This was the end of our first stage. I2th July. We left Kyaukadoung very late next morning (nine o'clock), due to delay in breakfast. It was a glorious morning and there was no particular incident before reaching the foot of Mount Popa, an extinct volcano, 5,000 feet high. At Popa Ywa (Upper Village) we filled the radiator from the village spring and here met Mr. M.'s old Lugaly. The first photograph was taken here. Proceeding on the down grade of the far side of the mountain we struck a bad landslide, about 25 feet across the road and 20 feet deep, the road having been washed out, due to heavy rain. This washout was partly filled with huge boulders. The crossing was a hair-raising affair, but with the help of Burmese roadmakers we half lifted, half pushed the car across, and proceeded to Sicken, where a Chauk Club Lugaly directed us to Kabat. Some three miles before reaching this, we sank badly in a quicksand in a choung of running water. The wheels sank up to the hubs almost immediately, but by herculean labour the car was eventually landed in good order on the other side. At Kobat Village, we turned aside to visit the Union Oil Company, incidentally traversing what was described as the dirtiest village in Burma. We met MacD., a former fellow passenger of F.'s, also his Lieutenant C. Beer was provided ; also road directions and diagrams, and more to the point, two and a half gallons of petrol. The homemade map provided, proved very useful indeed, and clearly showed us our way to Toungtha, on the main P.W.D. road, where the railway runs alongside. The first village after Kobat was Welong—n miles and between it and the next village (n miles to Toungtha) we crossed four choungs. On the whole they were comfortable compared with our experience earlier in the day. One actually had a paved causeway. These choungs are dry river beds of a very loose light sand, liable to flood at any moment, and

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if one were caught while crossing, there would be no hope, as the water sometimes comes down in a solid wall and sweeps everything before it. The road from Kobat to Toungtha was variable but is likely to improve, and road making operations were in progress all along. The road was as good as we had yet met for cars, although somewhat sandy ; we arrived at Toungtha at 4.30, having lost a very great deal of time in one choung which was about threequarters of a mile across and which took the best part of threequarters of an hour. The dak bungalow at Toungtha was inhabited and we met with a hospitable welcome from T., an assistant road inspector, P.W.D. We had tea and rested and left at 6 p.m., with apparently one hour of daylight to do 18 miles to Malaing. There is no speed limit in Burma at this point. I drove hard and fast to try and run out of the rain, but we ran into it. The roads were excellent and quite as good as any English road. There was a chance of our pulling up half way at a dak bungalow near Zonnyunggyi, but we missed this as it was slightly off the main road, and we were forced to proceed to Malaing in blinding rain, which had brought on darkness unexpectedly. Our 18 miles seemed never ending. The head light gave out and I had to crawl along an unknown road and find a place which we had not heard of until an hour before, with only a very limited vocabulary of Burmese. By this time all of us were wet, dirty and tired, but still tails well up. The Lugaly never lost heart, although sitting at the back in the rain with no shelter must have been trying. A loquacious guide found for us an elusive dak bungalow. All this in the pouring rain and no lights at about 8 p.m. We fed and so ended our second day. I3th July. Next morning we left Malaing at 9 a.m., after visiting the Bazaar, buying petrol and receiving an invitation from a Mr. D. to call on our return journey at Meiktila. The weather was again glorious, in spite of the previous night's rain, and F. made first driving to Meiktila (less than an hour). We wandered round Meiktila ; overhauled for oil, grease and petrol, left at 10.30. The road from Malaing to Meiktila was excellent, wide and straight to the horizon ; all the time one could not have wished for anything better. There is no speed limit and we then found what a Ford can really do if put to it. We drove from Meiktila to Thazi full open and all perfect. The engine was running well and true. The weather held up and was very enjoyable. We lunched in Thazi Railway Station. From here we commenced the gradual climb to our destination. The climb is from about five hundred feet above sea level to over four thousand in a distance of 60 miles. We were now in the Shan States and the difference was very marked. The dak bungalows were better designed and cleaner, and the inhabitants all Burmese or Shans. Here we began to realise what a fine country Burma is. How true is the saying that the Burman is the aristocrat of the East. The Indian by this time, together with his dirt, had gone, and happily, except for a very few, the people were wholly Burmans and Shans. The real climb started from Nampandat, 1,200 feet, and was

THE VIGORNIAN.

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magnificent. At this height and at this season of the year, we could but expect rain, or rather a drizzle ; it was not worth noticing. We ran through virgin jungle and I stopped the car during my turn of driving to experience once more that stillness which can only be got in such places. The running of the car had of course frightened everything, but once the car was stopped and while we sat silently, gradually the jungle life started again, and in a few minutes we could hear the light rustling in the undergrowth as cautious animals moved. We saw tracks of elephants in the dry river bed which we passed alongside of. We found one old bridge washed away but replaced by a very substantial P.W.D. bridge, and here took another photograph looking down to the river bed about 75 feet below. Nampandat Bungalow was by far the prettiest of all dak bungalows I have ever seen. In appearance it was a Tudor timber house with the familiar black beams and the startling white walls. We rested here for a few moments. The dak bungalow Durwan was not a Burman but a Shan, and conversation was difficult, but with my bad Burmese and his experience of the needs of previous travellers, we managed a meal! tea only and a few biscuits. Eggs were impossible, and the man and his wife seemed to live on rice only. We left Nampandat (the altitude being 1,200 feet odd) to make a final climb of 3,000 feet in ig miles. The car travelled beautifully in top gear •—one intense moment at a blind corner where we nearly went over the edge with a fall of over 1,000 feet, due to a recklessly driven car coming downhill round a corner at excessive speed.

Where the ist XV suffered, the 2nd XV suffered even more. They had very few matches, not one of which, by some extraordinary chance, happened to be at home. Many of their matches were scratched and not once had they anything like their representative team in the field. The outstanding figure of the 2nd XV was M. J. C. Stanley, who was awarded his ist XV Colours for the services he rendered in the O.V. match, although he is not a member of the ist XV. Playing centre three-quarter he was practically responsible for all the scoring in the 2nd XV matches. J. C. Palmer, playing wing outside Stanley, was very fast; his defence however is weak. G. H. Carrel came into the team at half term and stayed. He is slow for centre three-quarter, but in a few years may develop pace and defence. D. L. Matheson is much better in defence than in attack. J. A. A. Maund tackled pluckily, but his kicking and fielding left much to be desired. G. W. Rowland and D. W. A. Molony were two very young halves who should both develop well. The latter is apt to run with the ball too much before passing out. The forwards were all pretty good, particularly C. E. Coverdale, H. E. Wood, and M. S. Taylor on occasions. J. B. Edwards, C. D. Garrett, R. H. N. Wood, R. E. Tull, C. V. Hodgson, were all steady hard-working forwards.

Rugger, 1926.

THE O.V. MATCH. On New Road Ground, December 2oth. This match was an innovation, and proved to be a great success. The O.V.'s brought down a very strong team, and as the School had four members of their team absent it appeared probable that the O.V.'s would win. The School, however, played better than they had previously played during the term. Despite the absence of three of the forwards, the scrum played splendidly, and although opposed by a much heavier side, they managed to gain possession of the ball on many occasions. But it was particularly gratifying to see that the School " backs " were fulfilling the promise they gave at the beginning of the season. The O.V. " backs " were very formidable, better probably than any we had played against this season, with the exception of Brecon, yet it was through the " backs " that the School, with one exception, obtained their tries; and in every case, except for one magnificent effort by Arbuckle, they were the result of good team efforts.

The success of the School XV in the O.V. match altered the whole aspect of the team, and it was unfortunate that we should have had to wait until the last day of term to see the XV properly in action. The question arose : Why was it that the team did not show before of what it was capable? Of course there were the usual minor accidents which cropped up and prevented members of the team from playing in matches. I think possibly we had more than our share of such casualties—on only one occasion did we play our full team, and on occasions we had as many as five absent. Then there was the flooding of the field, which kept us off for a long while. All these little excuses added together may help to answer the question of our critics.

The first try went to the O.V.'s, scored by R. A. S. Looker, after a futile mistake by a School forward. It was converted by P. Graves-Morris. Soon after, however, a good movement by the School three-quarters, when the ball went right across the line, ended in a try by Langstaff. It was not converted. For some time the O.V.'s pressed hard, and it was a splendid rush by the School forwards, who took the ball from the School twenty-five to within ten yards of the O.V. line, where they heeled cleanly, which enabled Garnett to score the School second try. Again the kick at goal failed. Thus at half-time the score was 6 points to S f°r tne School. There was noticeable im-

The necessary compliments, flowery and fully meant, were exchanged. Of course in the mind of Indian who was driving, we undoubtedly had no right on the road and should have been elsewhere. We reached Kalaw 5 p.m. and stopped at Kalaw Hotel. We were welcomed by Mr. and Mrs. S. " Lizzie " was put away in the cow-shed, after having done excellent work. After a good tea our host and hostess took us to the Club, where we received a riotous welcome and joined in the dance. A. M. LUMSDAINE, O.V.

THE VIGORNIAN. provement in the School backs both in tackling and running, and the combination was vastly better than that of the O.V.'s. Soon after half-time, the O.V.'s scored their second try through Redmond, and again Graves-Morris kicked the goal. The School retaliated with a " forward " try scored by Wood, but again the kick failed. For a long while the O.V.'s pressed. Time and time again they almost scored. Haynes, at back, was tackling well, and generally the School defence was sound. At last the School three-quarters got away, and as the result of some passing, Stanley was given the ball on the half-way line. He neatly side-stepped his opposing man, out-paced the back, and although well backed up on both sides, he found it unnecessary to pass and scored himself between the posts. The try was converted by Colombi. The School was not pressed as hard now, although the play remained in the middle of the field. Another threequarter movement put Stanley over near the touch-line, and the kick failed. Almost on time, Arbuckle getting the ball at about half-way made a splendid individual run, quite unbacked-up, to score between the posts. Wood kicked the goal. The School thus won by 22 points to 10. Of the forwards, Colombi played his usual good game, and was well backed-up by Stanton and Monahan. Boole hooked well. Halton out-played Molony at scrum-half, and Arbuckle was quite a match for Davey (suffering from a weak ankle). Stanley proved himself an excellent substitute for Porter at centre and was awarded his cap after the match. Haynes was most reliable at back. His tackling was good, but on one or two occasions he would have been better advised to kick than hold on as he did. It was altogether a most gratifying finish to the season. The School Team—R. R. Haynes; H. F. Langstaff, M. J. C. Stanley, C. LI. Garnett, H. L. Hargraves ; A. D. Arbuckle, E. C. Halton; J. S. Colombi, P. C. W. Monahan, G. D. S. Boole, E. F. Stanton, C. P. Longland, C. E. Coverdalc, H. E. Wood, J. B. Edwards. The O.V. Team.—L. E. H. Goddard; W. J. Mayhew, W. McGraves-Morris, P. Graves-Morris, T. M. L. Redmond; T. A. Davey, C. J. C. Molony (Capt.); H. H. Blanchard, M. R. Craze, J. C. Flay, H. C. Gettings, B. S. Verdier, R. A. S. Looker, J. S. Hurford, G. E. Churchill. * * »

531

J. S. COLOMBI (Forward). An extremely useful forward with much natural ability. He uses his head to anticipate the movements of the game and does not misdirect his energy. D. A. B. HOPKIN (Forward). Though he lacks speed, his weight, perseverance and pluck make him a great benefit to the pack. He also made a good leader in the absence of Ainslie. P. C. W. MONAHAN (Forward). Has come on extremely well lately. In the line out he uses his height to advantage. Also he has a turn of speed and endurance that enable him to be an effective aid to the three-quarters in attack and defence. His footwork still wants improving. E. C. HALTON (Scrum Half). A plucky player who improved considerably during the season ; excellent in defence. E. F. STANTON (Forward). A good forward ; always up with the ball and does useful things when he gets there. Rather apt to be clumsy in the scrum. H. L. HARGRAVES (Three-quarter). Has plenty of pace. Needs more resolution in going for the line. G. D. S. BOOLE (Forward). A light but hard working forward. Has been quite successful as a " hooker." M. R. BURNETT (Forward). Always on the ball. A very useful all-round forward. Apt sometimes to let his excitement overcome his judgment. C. E. PORTER (Three-quarter). Good in attack but weak in defence. An excellent place-kick. H. F. LANGSTAFF (Three-quarter). He is too much inclined to give an inside pass when resolute running might take him over the line. Useful in defence. R. R. HAYNES (Full Back). A plucky player; tackles fearlessly; has a sense of position and can turn defence into attack. Fields the ball well but his kicking is weak. C. P. LONGLAND (Forward). Works hard and has pluck : with more experience he should do well. M. J. C. STANLEY (reserve Three-quarter). A sturdy player who has shown a steady improvement. Runs hard and straight and is useful in defence.

THE RUGGER HOUSE MATCHES. FOOTBALL CHARACTERS. C. LL. GAUNKTT (Three-quarter). Strong runner—knows the value of cutting through—good in defence. Captained the side excellently, though unfortunate in being crocked during the early part of the season. M. R. A. AINSI.IE (Forward). line out and in the loose.

A good leader ; good in

A. D. ARBUCKLK (Fly-half). An excellent natural player. Has safe hands. Good in attack and defence. Scored many times and was responsible for many more.

Day Boys Natland

Day Boys ) „ . „ ' Castle House Castle House f School House School House Hostel *

School House * »

Owing to the abundance of disease in Natland and the Hostel, both these Houses found it necessary to scratch their games.

522

THE VIGORNIAN.

DAY BOYS v. CASTLE HOUSE. There was a dramatic start. Practically immediately the Castle House forwards heeled the ball from a loose scrum, Garnett ran with it himself until he had drawn the defence and then passed out to Ainslie, who found it unnecessary to pass it on to Haynes. Ainslie converted easily. This proved to be the only score of the match. Thereafter Castle House adopted solely defensive methods. Day Boys were playing only four forwards, trying the experiment of another man outside ; yet it was the forwards which appeared most dangerous, and they nearly scored on several occasions. Teams : Castle House—R. R. Haynes, M. R. A. Ainslie, G. W. Rowland ; C. LI. Garnett (capt.); D. A. B. Hopkin, C. E. Payne, M. R. Balch, D. J. Cockle, L. S. Daniels. Day Boys—J. C. Palmer, A. D. Arbuckle, H. L. Hargraves ; W. Hornblower ; M. S. Taylor ; C. E. Coverdale, J. B. Edwards, J. A. A. Maund i, J. H. Nicholls i.

FINAL. CASTLE HOUSE (HOLDERS) v. SCHOOL HOUSE. The School House forwards were exceedingly strong and they made excellent use of their weight. Never once was the School House line in real danger, whereas Castle House were in a perpetual state of defence. On not one occasion were Castle House able to heel the ball back. Molony on three occasions scored on the blind side, the result of quick heeling by his forwards. At half-time the score was 13—o in favour of School House.

time as was possible, the " Under 15 " XV put in much valuable practice, and were able to play two matches. The first one, against Bromyard Grammar School, was rather a farce, although the score does by no means give a true idea of the state of the game. Our School XV suffered a defeat by 58 points to nil. Two members of Bromyard XV continually outweighed and outpaced our somewhat diminutive team, certain of whom were only eleven years old. Nevertheless it must be admitted that the tackling was rather weak, everyone being inclined to go high. The second match, against Tredennyke away, proved to be a most exciting game. We just managed to win by 21 points to 15. The team showed more confidence, the tackling was better, and the running for the line showed more determination. There was still, however, much room for improvement in the team work. It cannot be said that anyone of outstanding merit was discovered in the short while we had for playing, with the exception of Meers, who should do very well. Carter (captain) and Flay, as three-quarters, Mayhew as scrumhalf, who is still too fond of hanging on to the ball, and Beaumont i, Cullen, Shrimpton, Beaumont ii, all played quite well and might have become good with more practice. All other Junior Rugger, such as jrd and 4th XV's, " Below " Matches, had to be scratched.

Cftcss Rotes.

In the second half Ainslie went into the scrum in the place of Balch. This change slightly improved the Castle House play, but they continued to be outplayed by the School House forwards. Colombi, Monahan and Longland were always conspicuous; and Haynes, for Castle House, was particularly fine in the way he went down to the ball and smothered the rushes. School House thus regained the cup by winning easily by 25—o.

Up to the time of writing these notes, two matches have been played this term, one resulting in a draw, the other in a win for our opponents. The match for the Worcestershire Public Schools Chess Shield has not yet been played.

The unavoidable absence of Hopkin was unfortunate; with him as backbone for the scrum, the score might not have been so large.

On February igth, C. LI. Garnett was invited to play for Worcestershire against Gloucestershire in a fifty-board match at the Blind College. He played forty-fifth board, and won his game, being the first to do so.

School House—M. J. C. Stanley, E. C. Halton, C. V. Hodgson; D. W. A. Molony; C. P. Longland, J. S. Colombi, P. C. W. Monahan, E. C. Stanton, H. E. Wood.

There were thirty-six entries for the Cup this year, an unusually large number, and the competition is now in full swing. A series of House Matches has also been started.

Towards the end of last term, two sets of simultaneous games were played.

Castle House—R. R. Haynes, M. R. A. Ainslie, G. W. Rowland; C. LI. Garnett; M. R. Balch, C. E. Payne, D. J. Cockle, L. S. Daniels, C. F. A. Assheton.

On Saturday, November 2Oth, C. LI. Garnett played five simultaneous games. He won two games and lost three. His opponents were T. O'D. Lumley (o), E. A. Rieu (i), J. G. Beaven (i), C. J. O. Blackall (i), W. H. O. Woodrow (o).

JUNIOR FOOTBALL. Owing to the early appearance of floods, Rugger of all descriptions ceased to exist. This is the third year in succession in which junior rugger has been spoilt, In such

On Tuesday, December 7th, F. W. Trent, Esq., of the Worcester City Chess Club, played eight simultaneous games. The opposition was not very strong owing to sickness. He won five games and lost three. His opponents

THE VIGORNIAN. were C. LI. Garnett (i), O. R. Craze (o), T. O'D. Lumley (o), J. G. Beavan (o), C. J. O. Blackall (i), W. H. O. Woodrow (o), P. C. Medawar (i), R. G. W. Weight (o). On Tuesday, February 8th, a match was played against the Worcester Royal Grammar School. The match was drawn, each side winning three games. The games were played as follows :— W.C.K.S. W.R.G.S. C. LI. Garnett o G. C. Gaut O. R. Craze 0 H. Atwell E. A. Rieu 1 T. Atwell J. G. Beaven i A. R. Evans T. O'D. Lumley 0 B. L. H. Short C. J. O. Blackall 1 J. H. Spalding

i i o o i o

On Thursday, February I7th, a match was played against Worcester City Chess Club 2nd. The School were defeated by 3s games to 2^. The games were played as follows :— W.C.K.S. W.C.C.C. 2ND. Rev. R. J. Whilaker - i L. Sharpe, Esq. C. LI. Garnett - i H. G. Perkins, Esq. O. R. Craze - % —. Foss, Esq. F. G. Sainsbury E. A. Rieu - o J. G. Beaven - o D. Collins - i T. O'D. Lumley J. King, Esq. (absent) o C.J.O.B.

O.C.C. Roles. The training of all, except candidates for Certificate " A " has been carried on according to syllabus. The recruits who were enrolled in September last and who have been kept together, have made very good progress, and the N.C.O.'s responsible for their training are to be congratulated. Nos. 2 and 3 Platoons have worked .well and should provide a good number of suitable candidates for Certificate " A " next year. Certificate " A " candidates have worked well and all, with one exception, passed the practical examination. The result of the written part of the examination is not yet announced. Though a much higher standard is now demanded, most of those who were successful in the practical exam, should pass the written exam. also. The following passed the Practical Exam, this term :— Drill

L/Cpl. Arbuckle Cdt. Edwards Cdt. Garrett Sgt. Longland Cdt. Lumley Cdt. Matheson Cdt. Maund Cdt. McDonaugh Cdt. Nicholls Cpl. Stanley L/Cpl. Stanton

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

Weapon Map Training Tactics Reading Total

60 45 60 30 45 70 45 90 30 75 75 80 50 80 45 55 40 55 75 50 80 75 » * *

55 50 60 70 75 65 75 70 55 70 5°

45 80 85 80 95 50 70 55 95 95

205 220 260 285 275 270 275 225 245 290 290

523

The following were awarded Certificate " A " as a result of last term's examination :— Cpl. Boole. Cpl. Halton. Sgt. Porter. L/Cpl. Rieu.

Considerable use has been made of the miniature range this term and the standard of shooting is higher than last year. An account of this is given separately.

This term we were invited to take part in a Field Day with other schools. The operations were on a large scale and, though this narrowed the scope of junior commanders, an enjoyable day was spent. A full account appears elsewhere. # * # The following recruits were enrolled this term :—Bain, Collier, Hughes i, and Stewart. In future, in order to facilitate the working of the syllabus of training, recruits will be enrolled in the Winter Term only—at the beginning of the School year.

Promotions and appointments were made this term as follows :—• Sgt. Langstaff to be C.S.M. Cpl. Painting to be Sergeant. L/Cpl. Boole to be Corporal. Cdt. Rieu to be L/Corporal. Sgt. Longland to be Band-Sergeant.

The Annual Inspection has been fixed for Saturday, July gth, and will be conducted by Capt. F. Thornton from the War Office. c

*

»

FIELD DAY. The Field Day this term was on March i6th and was on a much larger scale than usual. The area of operations was between Foss Cross and Cirencester. A Northland Force, commanded by Major Gurney, Cheltenham College O.T.C., and consisting of Cheltenham College and King's School, Worcester, had orders to fight a rear guard action to prevent the enemy, Southland Force, from crossing a certain line within a given time. The Southland Force, under the command of Lieut.-Col. Boughey, Marlborough O.T.C., consisted of two battalions. Marlborough O.T.C., commanded by Major Fletcher, formed one of these battalions, and the other was a composite battalion including Dean Close O.T.C. and Monckton Combe O.T.C., and commanded by Major Daniels. The chief umpire was Col. R. E. Clayton, C.M.G., D.S.O., Cmdg. 145 Inf. Brigade, and he was assisted by a number of Regular officers. The following is an outline of the operations as far as they concerned Northland troops :—

THE VIGORNIAN.

524

Sbootlna*

GENERAL IDEA. A Northland Army, protected by Rear Guards, is gradually withdrawing before a numerically stronger Southland Force. During the i$th March, Southland Advanced Guard forced crossing over the River Thames and iSoohrs. were in touch with the Northland Cavalry along the line of the Fairford-Cirencester Road. Northland Infantry were reported by air reconnaisance to have gone into billets in the valley of the River Coin by iSoohrs. i5th March. SPECIAL IDEA. Northland. 1. At o6oohrs. i6th March, Cheltenham and Worcester O.T.C. (in bivouac about Foss Cross) was ordered to act as Rear Guard to the loth Northland Infantry Brigade and to prevent the enemy from reaching the Foss Cross—Pool House Road, between the M. and S.W. of railway (excl.) and the Ampney Crucis—Coin Rogers Road (excl.) before iSoohrs. i6th March. He was to be in position by I2i5hrs., by which time the Northland Cavalry on his front would have been withdrawn to protect his right flank—his left flank would be adequately guarded by the Rear Guard of the nth Infantry Brigade—he would be supported by one (imaginary) iSpdr. Fd. Battery, R.A., which would come under his orders from o6oohrs. i6th March. 2. O.C. Cheltenham O.T.C. decided to occupy a position about Field Barn with a Forward Company about Sheep House Farm, with orders to cover the occupation of the Main position and to prevent the enemy from reaching the line East and West through Sheep House Farm before ijoohrs. and at that hour to withdraw into Battalion reserve N.W. of Field Barn in The Warren. We were allotted the right flank as our area, and were in position by i2oohrs. ; but, being concerned only with the second phase of the operations, had a considerable time to wait, before engaging the enemy. Under Officer C. L. Garnett was in command and had disposed his troops in a good tactical position. On the approach of the enemy he was enabled to cause a considerable number of casualties and throw them into confusion. When ordered to withdraw by the umpires (sooner than would have been necessary), he withdrew in good order. During this stage junior commanders were seen to advantage, protecting each other by covering fire, and the withdrawal to the second prepared position was carried out quite successfully. Unfortunately, from this point umpires allowed the attack to advance much too rapidly and the value of the latter stages of the operations was to a large extent lost. At i5oohrs. operations ceased and contingents made their way independently to Foss Cross, where tea was waiting.

Shooting this term has consisted chiefly of practice for the VIII ; in addition to this about ten cadets have qualified as First Class shots in the Empire Test. The question of a visit to Bisley we have dealt with elsewhere ; but it should be mentioned that we shoot against the Public Schools of Worcestershire in other competitions, so that our standard can be compared with that of other schools from these. Inter-section competitions will be held later in the term, and so it is hoped that a greater interest than has hitherto been shown will be taken in shooting, the only sport in which the O.T.C. is represented against other Public Schools. The scores made in this term's matches and their results are as follows : v. v. K.E.S. Exeter School. Birmingham. Country Life. Highest Possible Score 105 8$ 130 H. F. Langstaff ... 86 63 93 E. F. Stanton ... 93 75 68 C. LI. Garnett ... 80 68 no W. E. A. Brown ... 83 65 88 G. W. Rowland ... 86 69 79 E. J. Granger ... 86 63 63 H. G. Parsons ... 82 70 83 J. S. Colombi ... 56 — — R. R. Haynes ... — — 54 W. E. Singeison ... — 33 — Total

6=2

Exeter School 610.

K.E.S. 507

Won by 42 pts.

Lost by i pt.

506

644

The Country Life scores are subject to the Editor's decision ; the result of the competition will be published in Country Life late in April. H.F.L. E.F.S.

Flues. Floods do not have a bad effect upon Fives ; on the contrary, they should be quite beneficial. But consistent rain, at least once a day, sorely tries the patience of keen players. Up to the time of writing there have barely been seven days on which the courts have been free from moisture. One always expects a good deal of rain ihis term, but surely this is too much. The competitions have made several attempts to get into swing. The Handicap Doubles, for which there is a large entry, promises to yield good contests, and nobody can as yet claim to have "spotted the winners." The range of handicapping has been considerably increased this year, with the result that it gives the " moderate " pairs more

THE VIGORNIAN. of a chance of winning than they have had previously. In regard to the arrangement of matches this term, we have been most unfortunate. Worcester College, Oxford, with whom we had such a good game last year, have found it impossible to send a team owing to the pressing engagements of influenza and examinations. The great increase in the number of Day Boys who play Fives is most gratifying. It is to be hoped that next year still more will follow the example. There has been a general increase in the number of players this term, there being now nearly ninety regular players. If many more join it will become expedient to build another court ! * * * The First Four, consisting of C. LI. Garnett, C. E. Porter, M. I). B. Royle, C. V. Hodgson, has had no chance to demonstrate its prowess. Royle has shown much improvement, although he is still a trifle uncertain with his right hand. His chief requirements, now, are assiduous practice in footwork, and development of a " Fives Brain." Hodgson is inclined to be erratic. His " left hand " shots are safer than last year, and he needs now to cultivate some killing shots. He might be called good in defence and weak in attack. » * » Illness considerably interfered with the Second Four. G, H. Carrel was easily the steadiest, although he seems only to be able to get the ball up with difficulty. He lacks all forcing shots, being content to get the ball up. With muscular development, he will make a most useful player. H. F. Langstaff had good days, and on occasions played very well. C. P. Longland was prevented by illness from playing for a large part of the first half of the term, somewhat retarding his progress. D. W. A. Molony, who should ordinarily in the course of things have played in the Four, could not. M. J. C. Stanley, who took his place, had some excellent shots, being perhaps a little too fond of the " volley." * » » We are very grateful to Mr. Rammell for the interest he continues to take in Fives, It was a very pleasing fact that five members of the Staff entered for the Doubles. C.LL.G.

*

* * MATCH. v. BROMSGROVE SCHOOL. Played at Worcester, March lath. Although the weather appeared somewhat threatening in the morning, it cleared up well in the afternoon and a splendid game resulted. There is little to be said about the play. Bromsgrove found the courts a little confusing, the angle of the buttress continued to worry them to the end of the match. Their first pair, A. W. O. Roberts and C. C. Chadwick never really settled down, and the School pair, C. LI. Garnett and C. E. Porter, won comfortably by two games to n i l ; 15—i, 15—5.

525

The first game of the second pairs was in many ways most surprising. After the Bromsgrove pair, R. L. Moody and D. L. Swayne, had been leading n—2 and again 14—10, the Worcester pair, M. D. B. Royle and G. H. Carrel, who was substituting C. V. Hodgson, won 17—14, and went on to win the second game to love. The match was thus a win for the School by 4 games to nil.

Rowing. It is narrated elsewhere how the elements raged horribly and flooded our fields, also how it did not stop the playing of Fives one little bit. Well, neither did it really stop Rowing. It is true that beginners were not started till the Saturday after the commencement of Rowing, but all old rowers had tub pair instruction from the Tuesday before. Also on that Saturday the first light four of the season put out with very satisfactory results. Although there are none of last year's four left, there is plenty of good material from which we hope to make three good fours, since all but one of last year's second and third fours remain. There is still room for a limited number of rowers, but any who think of taking to the oar are reminded that they must be strong swimmers and must have passed the School River Test, or have a certificate to state that they can swim 50 yards. This rule seems to have escaped the notice of would-be rowers, and as a result some have not been able to row this season. Finally, all rowers are particularly grateful to Mr. Strong for the indefatigable interest he shows in everything to do with Rowing, and to Mr. Bentley, Mr. Addleshaw, and H. S. Spong, O.V., who have spent a great deal of time on half-holidays coaching. D.A.B.H., Captain of Boats.

Cricket Prospect* If it is justifiable to say that last season was a successful one, one is justified in saying that the coming season will be even more successful : this is by no means an impossibility. Of last year's XI, there remain eight old colours, the majority of whom are young and certain to improve, profiting by past experience. Of the 2nd XI, there remain a similar number of young, promising players, who will readily help to constitute a decidedly promising team. No weakness should be found in the batting, and there should be no overworking of any one bowler, since there is a wide selection to choose from.

THE VIGORNIAN.

526

Provided it is possible to obtain sufficient practice at the beginning of the term, there is every prospect of a satisfactory season. C.E.P., Captain of Cricket.

Cbe Snare. It was Nature's holiday, one of those perfect days, those happy harbingers of Spring, when everything combines to radiate joy, when all the smaller birds and animals, forgetful of their numerous enemies, lay care aside to frolic on Nature's lawns, when man from the stuffy confinement of his office, glancing from his open window, must needs lay down his pen and dream of fields beyond, gaily decked with Spring's new opening flowers. A young hare, barely in his " man's estate," full of the invitation of his double Spring, called by the mad intoxication of the day, lept his happy inconsequent way across the open moors. Free as the winds and revelling in the knowledge, careless of time and place, he careers on his thoughtless rush, delighting in surmounting every obstacle, every loose stone wall, which winds its snake-like course across the Downs. One wall higher than the rest baulks his jump. He is far from home, far from the land he knows, but his natural caution is overcome by the call of Spring. He tries that wall again, and then again, until, at length, by dint of one tremendous effort he gains the top in triumph, and sees before him stretches of even more glorious country-side. He makes the briefest pause to gain redoubled energy, and he is off again ! It was half-way through that onward jump that he scented danger. His animal instinct warned him in tones too clear to be disregarded. He twists his pliant body into queer fantastic shapes in his terrified endeavour to avoid his unknown enemy. But Nature's warning had come too late. No sooner had he touched the grassy earth than both his front legs found themselves entwined in the thin strong wire of a poacher's snare. His onward spring is checked half-way, and he is jerked most cruelly back to beat his panting side against the sharp stone wall. Fear lent him undreamt-of strength. Up he jumped again, turning, twisting, and somersaulting in every conceivable way, vainly striving to elude the tightening grip of that biting wire. Up and out, round and round, he contorts his sweating body in that useless fight for liberty. His screams—God knows, there is no more heartrending sound that this, the mad screaming of a frightened hare— sent a harsh jolting noise into the calm, pleasant air. Nature's tuneful notes were rudely shocked by this incessant discord. An hour's painful struggling leaves him too exhausted to continue. He lies on the blood-specked grass, his panting sides rising and falling quickly, his eyes protruding with fear, his heart nearly bursting under the strain. His

nightmare rest is very brief. As soon as he can stand again, he fights once, more to free himself. Vain hope of a despairing heart, which so recently knew not a care! The scheming poacher did not mean to let a victim free itself. The wretched hare is lost, unless some kindly soul passing that way, should pity him and set him free ! Nature is working for its child ! Such a rescuer, even now, drawn by the same attraction of the Spring to devour the country beauty in the fresh morning air, is striding in his direction. His peaceful thoughts, running in perfect harmony with Nature's notes, are sharply disturbed by the screaming discord borne to his ears by the gentle breeze. He stops in his path and hears once more the terrified scream. His soul goes out in pity to the captive. Why should a beast, a pretty child of Nature, be thus enchained and waiting death on Natures' holiday? He hurries to the spot and bending down, over the prostrate animal, seeks to loose the restraining wire. But the hare, poor brute, cannot discern the kindly intentions of his would-be rescuer. With redoubled efforts he flings himself to the full extent of the wire, only to be jerked more rudely back. His twisting and tearing avails him nothing. At last, just when gentle hands were on the point of freeing him, he gives one fierce upward leap, more powerful than the rest. The backward jerk is only the more violent, and his poor overtaxed legs cannot stand this last extra strain. Both are broken ! Three seconds later he is free, free to return to his home and relations, free to continue his wild course across the Downs, free—but bound by chains far stronger than before. That last bid had robbed him of worldly freedom, and his rescuer, in pity bound, freed him once more, into a land, perhaps, with larger, fairer fields in which to sport, with higher, better walls over which to jump—a land in which there are no snares !

Cbe essay Competition. In the recent essay competition, in which candidates were invited to participate by writing an essay on Bananas, the work produced by all boys was, on the whole, excellent. So excellent indeed were the essays of the five boys whose essays are appended, that the judge found it impossible to decide to which of them to give the prize, which will therefore be equally divided among them. I.

[This shows considerable reasoning capacity coupled with a praiseworthy command of the periodic sentence.] Bananas. There are always two sides to any question and these are no exception to the rule. Some people do not like them, but personally I like them very much, though of coarse I like a peach better, but as they are not often in season and so are unobtainable, which is one thing in favour in favour of bananas, which one can always buy where you live,

THE VIGORNIAN. although they cost more than others which prevents one from getting them if he is not well off, and so I can repeat what I said at the beginning, that there are two sides to bananas like there is with other things. * * * II.

[Exhibits a healthy curiosity about things, and considerable conscientiousness in finding out knowledge.] Bananas.

What is a banana? If we look up the word in Dr. Twaddle's Entomological Dictionary, we are rewarded for our efforts by the following : " Banana. Latin : Banan-aae. French : Banana. Spanish : Banana. A rich, succulent plant of the genus Banana, a monocotyledonour family of rock-plants, distinguished from the Fishball-fruit tribe (Piscorbiferaceae) by its pendulous racemes of sansaziform carpels." We may conclude with the statement that we have never seen a straight one. « » * III.

[An excellent little story with a moral. of description and imagination.]

Shows power

Bananas, Splish ! Splush ! Splesh ! Incessant came the rain against the window-pane. A roaring fire glowed in the great and Paul and Barbara sat shivering in front of the dying embers, eating bananas. Paul ate two but Barbara ate sixteen and a half. Paul ate his supper as well, but Barbara finished off the embers by being sick over them. " You can have too much of a good thing." * * * IV.

[Shows clearness and conciseness and a logical brain.] To prove that bananas are good. There are three kinds of foodstuffs: some are good, some are bad, and some is neither good nor the reverse. To determine whether bananas may be included in the first class or not, let us first of all take a banana. [You have taken one? Good; well. Oh! ho! You must not eat i t : you must consider its advantages.] Now we may assume that some bananas are good and some bad ; therefore good bananas are good. Q.E.D. * » * V.

[Here is shown great care in amassing important and interesting information, and the ability to set it down attractively.] Bananas.

Bananas are said to have been discovered in the I2th century by the famous Russian adventurer Letzbuzzoff, who as soon as he landed, slipped on a skin left by a negligent native. He got up with a handful of Brazilian soil in his mouth, and thus captured South America for Portugal. Bananas are to-day picked from the trees on Ash Wednesday, when still green. They are then trussed up for transit, during which they turn yellow. After this, in the shops, the banana turns brown, then black, then violet, and then flys away. They are extremely nutricous.

527

fl Song of tbc mustard Club. (FOR THEM AS LIKES IT.) Up, my boys, the bell is ringing ! No more sleep and ease : Put out platters, carve the meat— And, Pass the Mustard, please! CHORUS. Mustard makes us strong and healthy, Mustard makes us wise and wealthy, Mustard makyth men. Don't get flustered,— Pass the Mustard Every now and then. Whether mutton, beef or bacon, Whether eggs or cheese ; This our song will always be : " Pass the Mustard, please! " CHORUS. Mustard makes us strong and healthy, Mustard makes us wise and wealthy, Mustard makyth men. Don't get flustered,— Pass the Mustard Every now and then. When depression hangs upon you, Gout, or housemaid's knee ; When you feel life's not worth living, And will never be : Mustard shakes you by the hand (Let him that readeth understand). GRAND CHORUS. Now, let us praise the King and Queen, And England's pleasant clime, And all the gentil knights there've been. But, ere we end this rhyme, Remember that all food alone Really is quite rotten : Mustard at the luncheon hour Ne'er may be forgotten. [Repeat twice, loudly]

JKUxnture or tlK Clresome aibunc. (DoNAN COIL) It was a Roman History period, but my mind was far away. On my lap was the new number of the Strand Magazine, and I was engrossed in the latest Sherlock Holmes story. Suddenly a well-known voice said: " I

THE VIGORNIAN.

528

wonder if you could run down to Rome with me, Watson. I've got a nice little case on there. The train leaves Euston at 11.15. All you will need is a false beard and your Wcbley pattern boomerang." During the journey Holmes gave me the main facts of the situation. He had been called in by a well-known Roman solicitor, Mr. M. Anthony, to investigate the death of a prominent citizen, Gains J. Caesar, who had been found dead in the Forum. " From what I have heard of .the case," Holmes continued, " we should be well advised not to lose sight of a possible political aspect of the affair." Arrived in Rome, Holmes proceeded to view the body. With his remarkable deductive powers he immediately said, " You perceive, Watson, that Mr. Caesar was attacked from the rear? " I was amazed, but it all seemed so absurdly simple when my friend pointed to a wound in the unfortunate man's back. Within five minutes Holmes had issued his instructions : " Order the police to hold up all suspicious looking foreigners with a cast in the left eye and wearing mauve plus fours with a dinner jacket. And now I should like to see anybody who witnessed the affair." A young girl came forward who said she saw B. Rutus, a well-known Roman character, strike deceased. Holmes was wrapt in thought and an ulster. " This complicates matters," he said. " I had thought the outrage to be the work of a notorious London sinner." He hurried off to the Morgue, and returned with triumph on his face. " There was another wound concealed by his wedding ring. Do you know what that means? " I pondered and replied, " Perhaps there were two assailants." " Watson, you surpass yourself. And it also provides a motive. Only Mrs. Ca:sar could have adjusted the ring so as to hide the wound. She did it to shield her lover, B. Rutus."

were all turning out to greet the sun. Primroses and violets were fully out. Bluebells and purple orchises were beginning to shoot in colour through their spiky green. "Yes! it really is a beautiful day," mused Rat, and so intent was he on the beauty of all beside and behind him that he walked straight into a bed of stinging nettles in front of him. " Botheration ! " he shrieked (and lots of other nasty ratty things too) as he leaped back and fore, and was stung worse and worse. And a little field-mouse who had been playing nearby, and who was really just a wee bit afraid of old man Rat, when he saw him in such dreadful trouble, came up and piped, " O, poor Mr. Rat! You must have hurt yourself badly. Look! the best way to get out is just to walk gently by the way you went in." And Mr. Rat, who really despised the field-mouse, saw how very sensible his suggestion was, so he just walked very quietly out by the way he had come. Now Mr. Rat, in the ordinary way would have killed the field-mouse, but to-day was such a beautiful day. " A n d after all," he said to himself, " the little blighter did show me the wayout of those confounded stinging nettles." So he turned to the field-mouse with a smile and said, " Thank you ! young fellow-mc-lad. Beautiful day, isn't it," and he took out his purse and gave him sixpence. The field-mouse was dreadfully embarrassed at being spoken to by Mr. Rat, so he just looked silly, and said, " Oo! sir! " and then scuttled away to tell mother field-mouse what a nice old gentleman Mr. Rat was. Which was very silly of him, for on the following day, which was overcast and cold, Mr. Rat killed him. Moral : Remember that the tyrant yesterday, obliged to you to-day, is your enemy to-morrow.

Unfortunately the Roman newspapers discovered that Holmes was in Rome. When Rutus heard of it he determined to cheat the hangman. He drank half a bottle cf Lysol, leaving a full signed confession and instructing Mrs. Cresar to draw his insurance money. That evening, as we sat in our easy chairs at the Campus Hotel, I asked Holmes to explain how he had reached his astounding conclusions. " You know my methods, Watson. I put myself in the criminal's place. ." His voice rumbled on. Suddenly, in thundering tones, " Watson, you're asleep! " And I was.

fable. From the disused brick-works there loped leisurely a fat old rat. The sun shone brightly from a blue sky across which bright clouds ran before a pleasant breeze. Spring had come " with a leap in a day." Rat was contented as he made his way across the fields. Days like this made him feel pleased with himself—comfortable and satisfied. The grass was green and young and fresh. Spring flowers

School Officers. Captain of School Captain of Football Secretary of Football Captain of Shooting Secretary of Shooting Captain of Fives Captain of Gym Secretary of Chess Captain of Boats Sees, of Sports Captains of Houses :— School House Castle House Day Boys Hostel Natland

C. L. Garnett. C. L. Garnett. A. D. Arbuckle. H. F. Langstaff. E. F. Stanton. C. L. Garnett. C. P. Longland. C. J. O. Blackall. D. A. B. Hopkin. ( C. E. Porter. 1 C P. Longland. C. P. Longland. C. L. Garnett. A. D. Arbuckle. C. E. Porter. -H. F. Langstaff.

THE VIGORNIAN. School Monitors—C. L. Garnett, C. E. Porter, G. D. S. Boole, H. F. Langstaff, C. P. Longland, A. D. Arbuckle. Editors of the I'igornian—C. L. Garnett, G. D. S. Boole, C. P. Longland, J. J. Painting. Librarians—D. A. B. Hopkin, C. E. Coverdale, J. J. Painting, C. J. O. Blackall, D. L. Matheson.

Saluck. Lower V. Bain, D. W. School House. Graves-Morris, W. R. Castle House. Remove. Farmer, O. W. J. Day Boy. Headeach, P. Natland. Stocker, K. C. Natland. Williams, F. T. C. Natland. Upper IV. Collier, C. P. R. Hostel. Harris, D. P. C. Castle House. Lower IV. Allsebrook, W. B. J. Tate, J. M. Hostel.

529

Che Cibrarp. The following books have been added to the School Library. Bill the Conqueror Sam the Sudden Jill the Reckless The Bottles of Scented Sweets My Yesterdays The Forsyte Saga The White Monkey The Silver Spoon The Three of Clubs The Square Emerald The Nerthing Tramp The Avenger Young Anarchy The Ellerby Case Cock House at Fellsgarth King Goshawk and the Birds Moonraker The Incredulity of Father Brown The Innocence of Father Brown Fugleman the Foxhound

P. G. Wodehouse ,, ,, ,, ,, Max Pemberton Sir Ian Hamilton John Galsworthy „ ,, ,, Valentine Williams Edgar Wallace ,, ,, ,, ,, Sir Philip Gibbs John Rhode T. B. Reed Eimar O'Duffy F. Tennyson-Jesse G. K. Chesterton ,, ,, G. Harding Cox

The following have been placed in the Chappell Memorial Reading Room :— Everybody's Pepys Those Ashes When We Were Rather Older Wisden's 1927

Castle House.

II. Darch, J. K. Day Boy. Dobson, L. M. Day Boy.

M. A. Noble Downey D.A.B.H.

Cbe Oxford Ccikr. Vakk. VI. Steward, C. C. (1920-26).

To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Dear Sirs,

Day Boy.

Cadet O.T.C.

Mod. VI. Ainslie, M. R. A. (1923-26). Castle House, ist XV Football 1923-26, Secretary of Football 1925-26, ist XI Cricket 1924-25-26, Company Sergeant-Major O.T.C. Cert.

" A." Lower V. Simpson, C. A. (1922-26). Day Boy. Tull, R. E. (1923-26). Castle House. 1926, Lance-Corporal O.T.C.

Cadet O.T.C. 2nd XV Football

Remove. Burnett, M. R. (1924-26). School House, ist XV Football 1926, Cadet O.T.C. Roberts, T. H. (1924-26). Natland. Cadet O.T.C.

II. Dixon, R. J.

Day Boy.

You disclaim any intention of writing peremptory missives, and say you are sending only " a gentle reminder." Be that as it may, we mistrust the velvet glove : we have unpleasant memories of certain " reminders " we used to incur as the penalties for hastily prepared work, when we were yet with you. Still, we accept your olive branch, though in spite of your soothing words, the parsnips remain unbuttered. Now, sirs, be it observed that we have got even with our benighted friends on the Cam (if any still exist) in the matter of ' Blues." A Soccer " Blue" is not easy to obtain, and Benton Evans has done very well indeed to get his, and to deserve it so thoroughly. There is no one whom we could wish had got a " Blue " rather than W.B.E. We wish him every success in the future and hope he will add still further to his achievements. An account of the Dinner will be found elsewhere: it was very much enjoyed and we all hope it will be an annual event. It was a pity that three O.V, could not attend and

530

THE VIGORNIAN.

that one had to go to bed early, but in spite of all this it was a great success, and we were very much pleased that the Headmaster was able to attend. Toggers, of course, have been the main attraction this term, but the weather could scarcely have been more villainous. Our only devotee of the oar, Molony, stroked the Queen's boat, which was peculiarly unlucky in the matter of illness. Merton got head of the river on the first day and remained there, to the utter discomfiture of prophetic critics. The bumps were fewer this year than usual, and only two other colleges had Bump Suppers. Oxford has been generally quiet : the " Scala " has been banned—a bitter grief to all of us. The bombardment of Peckwater Quad, was, of course, grossly exaggerated and misrepresented by the London papers. The spectacle on the following day of hordes of workmen putting windows in as fast as possible, was extraordinarily amusing. The production of " King Lear " by the O.U.D.S. deserves some mention. It is, of course, not done to go and see for oneself (only one O.V., we believe, attended) : one merely talks about it. Judging from general opinion, the encomiums of the Oxford Press and the strictures of the London Press were alike undeserved. The " tedious homily " is ended, but we forgot to cry " Have patience, good people! " so perhaps you are weary and would rather not hear the scandal. Still, like most people, you, I expect, batten on perversions of the truth, so : I. F. W. SCHOFIELD (Hertford). We are indebted to him for arranging the Dinner. He continues to struggle with queer African dialects, which seem to consist solely of nouns and verbs. Is not often seen. Is making his absolutely and positively last, final and ultimate departure from us this term : we wish him every success among the African natives.

greatly under his guidance : the membership is immense. D. H. PRESTON (Worcester). Is not so depressed as we expected on the banning of the "Scala." Seems to be working harder this term. After some days of indecision, he decided not to develop 'flu. K. N. Ross (Merton). Lost a fortnight owing to chickenpox at the beginning of the term, but has made up for lost time, and is slowly being submerged in the flood cf dissipation. Has been seen at St. Hugh's and St. Hilda's. Has taken up horticulture. Pretends that he is always very busy. C. J. C. MOLONY (Queen's). Continues to live in the outer darkness and is rarely seen. Rowed vigorously in Toggers. A most exemplary character in attending lectures and general behaviour. G. E. CHURCHILL (Hertford). Was stricken by a bad attack of 'flu just before the Dinner, and went home for a week. He has quite recovered, and works and eats as usual. Another example to us all. Intelligence has reached us that two, if not three, Vigornians are coming to reside among the dreaming spires in October. We hope this is untrue. (We are not being rude : we hope there will be four or five.) Well, sirs, our work is done, and it only remains to wish the School good luck. Yours, etc., OXON.

Oxford Old Vigornians' Dinner.

A. J. C. B. GILL (Exeter). Moves in high circles. Spent an enormous amount of time at the Flemish Art Exhibition in London. He is rarely seen and never in.

As there is now a colony of Old Vigornians in Oxford quite considerable in numbers it has, of course, always been so in quality, it was generally felt that there was an excellent excuse for a convivial gathering. So a dinner was held on February i^th which, though there were defections as the result of illness and the claims of the river, was a great success.

M. R. CRAZE (Hertford). Had the misfortune to catch 'flu at the beginning of the term, which has depressed him somewhat. He works hard, but does not allow it to interfere with his other occupations.

There was no formality about the evening—if we except the formality which demanded the withdrawal of one diner at 10 minutes to 9 that he might comply with the instructions of the rulers of the University.

H. A. AINSWORTH (Keble). Had three teeth out on the day before the Dinner, so did not attend. When he looks at you with one eye shut, there is no mystic meaning : he is not a Mason. Takes long walks, on which he has exciting adventures. Makes horrible tea.

It was very pleasant to have as guests the Headmaster and two Old Vigornians—D. M. Forrest and W. McC. Graves-Morris.

W. BENTON EVANS (Queen's) is to be most heartily congratulated on his " Blue." His activities in the athletic world have been curtailed this term, owing to an unfortunate breakage in his arm. The Ping-pong Club flourishes

The members of the " Colony " present were I. F. W. Schofield, C. B. Gill, W. Benton Evans, M. R. Craze, D. H. Preston, K. N. Ross, while those whose absence had to be deplored were H. A. Ainsworth, G. E. Churchill, and C J. C. Molony.

THE VIGORNIAN.

Correspondence.

are permitted to enter the members' enclosure, in order to watch the game in greater comfort.

To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Dear Sirs, We should like, through your pages, to reply to the Old Vigornian who in your last issue stated that when he was at Bisley he noticed with regret the absence of any representatives from this School. There is no one in this School who would welcome the visit to Bisley of our Shooting VIII more than we would, but such a thing is unfortunately impossible ; for the following reasons. Firstly, expense. Secondly, the O.T.C. numbers in membership, about one hundred and ttventy ; the Shooting VIII, if it was going to compete in the Ashburton Shield competition, would have to practice on the long range nine miles from Worcester, repeatedly during the summer term. This would mean that some of the senior people in the O.T.C. would be unable to attend parades, and the corps being small, this depletion would be felt badly. In addition to this, the Shooting VIII contains members of both the Cricket Eleven and the Rowing Four ; the authorities who control these do not regard with favour a single journey to the long range, we know from past experience. And so we regret more than anyone else the fact that we cannot go to Bisley, but are in a position which does not render us capable of righting the objections above. With the usual apologies. Yours, etc.,

It has no doubt come to your notice that the Club, for many years in grave financial difficulties, has recently passed through a serious crisis, and an added income of £1,500 per annum is needed to keep the Club going. Of this sum a substantial portion has already been guaranteed, thanks to the energies of a special sub-committee. Might I suggest that members of the School who enjoy watching the games played on the County Ground be given an opportunity of showing their appreciation by means of a voluntary subscription? I am sure at least £10 could easily be collected in the School. Yours sincerely, COUNTY SUPPORTER.

Contemporaries. We acknowledge the following contemporaries, with apologies for accidental omissions :—The Bromsgrovian, The Cantuarian, Constantia (La Martiniere College, Lucknow), The Felstedian, The Gunnersburian, The Herefordian, The Limit, The Monktonian, The Portcullis, The Rendcomb College Magazine, St. Andrew's Chronicle (Toronto), St. Edward's School Chronicle, The Worcesterian, The Wyggestonian.

H. F. LANGSTAFF. E. F. STANTON.

Clbrarp account. 1926.

To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Dear Sirs, Why is it that the Library is so rarely opened now on Tuesdays and Thursdays? On many occasions there have been a number of Day Boys waiting on the steps of College Hall to renew or change books and no Librarian has appeared. This is very different to what it used to be !

RECEIPTS. £

May

Yours, etc., GROUSER. Oct.

To the Editors of the " I'igornian." Dear Sirs, For many years the School has had the opportunity of watching, gratis, a certain amount of the First-class (?) cricket played on the ground of the Worcestershire County Cricket Club. " Colours," by the courtesy of the Club,

13.

Balance Per Headmaster— Library Vigornians O.V. Club ...

s. d. 4 9

s. d.

20 o o IO

C

O

8 7 9 38 7 9

Per Headmaster O.V. Club ...

29 14 o

Jan. 28. Per Headmaster O.V. Club ...

3i 3 i

' 4 2 3 43

39 5 7 14 4

THE VIGORNIAN.

532 EXPENDITURE.

EXPENDITURE.

£ s. d. May 8. Large „ 28. Baylis ... „ 26. Smith ... ,, 13. Phillips & Probert Sunday Papers

£

7 2 II 16 '5 6 8 3 3 9

... ... ...

2

Rent— Field 2nd Field

8

35 '3 4 Sept. 20.

Phillips & Probert Smith ... ii. Large ... Baylis Sunday Papers

Oct.

... ... ...

10 ii 6 7 9 o 7 18 o 28 4 7

4 °

54 7 ! Jan. 27. „ 31. „ 31. ,, 31.

Large ... Smith ... Phillips & Probert Baylis ... Stamps Sunday Papers

... ... ... ...

£ s. d.

s. d.

9 3 8 6 5 6 4 3 6 16

i 6 4 8 36 3 10 126 4 3

£151 '4 4

... ..

...

.,

10 o 8 0

Corporation Poor Rate— Pavilion

...

...

22 12 I I

Major How—Cricket Balls ... Ferry — Visitors ... ... ... Hobday — Footballs Relfe Bros. — Football and Book Hall — Repairs Mower ... ... Mann — Sports Prizes ... ...

... ...

... ...

... ... ...

... ...

i 16 O 19 4 3 5 i o 7 i 17 6 13 8

Knowles— Repair Cart Collar ... Phillips & Probert — Fixture Cards Cooper— Engraving Shields ...

... ... ...

... ... ...

17 4 2 6 18 o

Charges— Bank ... Hunt — Wages ... ... Cricket Gear ... ... Rent Football Ground ... Keep— Horse ... ... Re-laying and Levelling

...

...

...

7

... ... ... ... ...

80 o 32 8 10 o 13 o 30 14

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Sundries R

J

CASTLEY

Term 2. Subscriptions Term 3.

Subscriptions

Loan of Ground— Dent Allcroft

84 10 o 8 0 0 85 o o 13 10 o 87 o o 14 3 6 10 o c o o

Worcester City C.C.

2

O

O

YWCA

2

O

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Sale of Cricket Cards

i o 6 2

Profit on School Shop Deficit

...

Marlow —Masters' Expenses Sec. Regatta ... ... Thornborrow ... ... Ayling— Sculls ... ... Mr. Strong — Expenses

RECEIPTS. Subscriptions

...

...

i

13 4 171 17

Rowing— Boat House— Rent

Games account Term i.

...

... ...

1

C. CREIGHTON, Headmaster.

1926

... ...

O

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2 3 60 o o 92 i o 8 .£458 6 ii

...

5 0 0

... ... ... ... ...

4 6 33 23 13 3 0 i ii

0 o o 6 o 53

7

3

£458 6 ii

T. E. RAMMELL, Hon. Treasurer C. CREIGHTON, Headmaster.