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Che UKjornian. THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE, "ra /lev SiSaKTa fiavOavu, TO. 2' ivpcra fan,

No. 126.

TO. ij finra wapa Ocuv jjrij<ra/u;i'."

DECEMBER, 1929.

VOL. IX.

Contents. Editorial School Notes School Calendar O.V. News Rugger Lectures Cricket ' Rowing O.T.C. Notes Shooting Notes Chess Notes King's Scholarship Exam The Library ... ... Swimming Life Saving ... ... One Winter Night Coercion Ode to a Sausage Stealth Duke of York's Camp Oxford Letter School Officers Valete Salvete ... ... ... Contemporaries Games Fund

Page Page 679 680

...

690 680 681 688 685 686 687 689 689 690 690 691 691 691 691 692 689 692 693 690 694 694 695 695

PRICE is.

€<Worlal. The pleasure one feels in meeting all one's friends again after the Summer holidays is inevitably tinged with regret at the thought of the changes wrought by " the whirligig of Time " and of the gaps of which one is conscious in the ranks of the School. Perhaps these gaps were rendered especially noticeable at the beginning of this term—at any rate to the members of the senior forms—by the absence of Mr. Rammell from the place he had occupied for so many years. However, it was not long before we were able to welcome him again, and see still greater proofs of his keen and lively interest in all the activities of the School. But the alterations were not all personal. By the end of the holidays most of the scheme for the improvement of the school buildings had been carried out as arranged last term. New changing-rooms have been built for Castle House and the Hostel, while the old Day Boys' changing-room has been incorporated into School House. For several years it had been felt that the accommodation in the boarding houses was inadequate, and, as the members of the houses will readily testify, the improvements supply a great need. Also the old gymnasium has been converted into a Carpenters' Shop and a new changing-room for the Day Boys. On the site of the old Carpenters' Shop, a very fine gymnasium has been constructed. This is larger and much more airy than its predecessor. It was completed shortly after half-term and is now proving itself an invaluable addition to the school. Undoubtedly its constant use almost every afternoon is the most telling testimony of the extent to which it is appreciated.

THE VIGORNIAN.

68o

Moreover we gladly take this opportunity of thanking very heartily one who wishes to remain anonymous for his generosity in having the oak panelling of College Hall restored to what is undoubtedly its proper colour. It now matches the new furniture and bookshelves of the Library (which were yet another gift from Mr. Rammell). The improvement is very great, and the equipment of the hall is now almost perfect. The School would also like to congratulate the Dean on having celebrated his eightieth birthday during the Summer holidays, and to express the hope that he may enjoy good health to continue his close connexion with the School for many years. This term has proved no exception to the general rule as far as School activities are concerned. The Winter term is always rather " solid," for there are none of the diversions which characterise the Easter term f nor is there that delightful variety which the Summer naturally brings into our pastimes. So our time has mainly been divided between the form-room and the " rugger "-field, with varying degrees of success. The term did not start auspiciously for great achievements in games, for during the first fortnight the ground was so hard that " rugger " was impossible, except with considerable risk of injury. The sun shone so persistently that many of us longed very much for a few more games of cricket. Since we could not gratify our desire, we spent our time in an endeavour to get fit, so that when at last rain came we might plunge straight " in medias res." The only explanation to be afforded of the weather which has since been our lot is that we must have prayed for rain with too much zeal. For later in the term the river began to rise with alarming rapidity, and we were confronted with the gloomy prospect of a flood. A succession of frosty nights gave us some hope that our fields would be left untouched, but all in vain! And now we fear that there will b« no more games played on our own ground during the remainder of the term. The ending to this account of our doings may be condemned as trite and hackneyed—but yet we feel that it is impossible to dispense with it, and therefore include it without apology. So we wish you all a very merry Christmas.

scfcooi notes. We welcome to the Staff this term Mr. R. C. Pedder, Mr. D. H. Powell-Evans and Mr. J. K. Michell. * * » The new Changing-rooms and Gymnasium are now completed ; the latter is in constant use for pass-ball, which appears to be taking a prominent place in School sport. * * * Field Day this term took place on Friday, November 8th, at Brockeridge Common, near Tewkesbury. The O.T.C. also paraded on Armistice Sunday, November lyth. * » *

The announcement of the results of the King's Scholarship Examination by the Dean seems on the way to becoming a regular function. It took place this year at n o'clock instead of at morning prayers, a decided improvement. We congratulate the successful candidates, especially T. N. Gray, of the Cathedral Choir School, who gained first place. # * * The refurnishing of the Library in College Hall has now been completed by the removal of the organ and the erection of a silver plate to commemorate Mr. Rammell's gift. * * * Of the 16 members of the Corps who entered for the Certificate " A " examination, all but 4 passed the Practical part. We wish them every success in the Written examination, the results of which will be forthcoming next term. Part of the fittings in the new Gym. is an extremely useful cupboard for the Band, designed by Mr. Bentley. A new bugle march is apparently being composed to celebrate it. * * *' Among the improvements in the boarding houses has been the thorough cleaning and repairing of School House heating system. Judging from what we have heard from members of this house, the result has proved eminently satisfactory. * * * As a preliminary to its being tar-sprayed, the playground is in process of being levelled by members of the School, under the direction of the Headmaster.

O.V. news. H. G. Bentley was runner-up in the final of the Lancashire Artrateur Golf Championship, being beaten by S. Robinson. He regularly plays for Lancashire, and is a member of the Hesketh (Southport) Club; he has won the Captain's prize at his club for the last two years; his handicap is now + i. * # # G. W. Rowland is with the Imperial Chemical Industries Ltd. at their Head Office. He plays with Toe H ist XV. * * * H. F. Langstaff is articled to a firm of solicitors in Manchester, and is an undergraduate of Manchester University, having recently passed Inter LL.B. * * * J. E. Seabright has taken up a post in the Architects' Department of H.M. Office of Works, Westminster. Previous to this he was chief assistant in the office of Messrs. Yeates & Jones (Architects), of Worcester, with whom he also served his articles.

681

THE VIGORNIAN.

Ruflfl<r Dotes.

J. Spencer Hughes is articled to E. P. Q. Carter, Esq., of Carter & Co., Chartered Accountants, 33, Waterloo Street, Birmingham.

IST XV FIXTURES. Date.

Cecil Glutton has passed the Intermediate Examination of the Surveyor's Institution and is studying for the final which will take place in about eighteen months' time.

Thomas Branthwaite, D.D., has just recently been appointed, and inducted as Rector of Southwick, near Brighton. # * * The Rev. G. H. Sharpe has accepted the living of St. Cuthbert's, Bensham, Gateshead, Co. Durham.

G. B. Greenfield has taken a post on the Leonora Sugar Plantation, West Coast, Demerara, Georgetown, British Guiana.

L. S. Daniels is articled to the firm of Dickinson & Co., Apsley, mechanical engineers.

P. H. Graves-Morris (The Worcestershire Regiment) has been playing wing threequarter for the Devonport Services with distinction. P. C. W. Monahan is taking a Spinning Course at Bradford Technical College and working hard as well as taking a keen interest in the College sport.

MARRIAGES. PORTER—PAWSEY.—R. G. Porter (Hostel 1914-1919), eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Porter, formerly of Broomhall Grange, Worcester, to Joyce Rachel, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Pawsey, St. Ann's, Colchester. CONSTANCE—ROSSER.—On October 3151, 1929, at St. George's Catholic Church, Worcester, Reginald Arthur to Gertrude Rosemary.

ENGAGEMENT. The engagement is announced between Gilbert W. Seabright, O.V., elder son of Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Seabright, of Worcester, and Marjorie Ethel, fourth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Acton, of Ealing, London.

Oct. „ „ „ ,, „ Nov. „ „ „ ,,

Result,

Opponents.

12.—Wolverley 16.—Monmouth 19.—Warwick 23.—Hereford C.S. 26.—King's Norton ... 30.—Christ College, Brecon 9.—Wolverley 13.—Hereford C.S. ... 16.—Cheltenham 2nd XV 23.—Warwick 30.—Hertford College...

Away Lost Home Won Away Lost Home Won Away Lost

Points for. agst. 3

6 9 3 32

Home Lost 8 41 Home Won 38 o Away Won n o Home Lost 3 16 Home Cancelled Home Cancelled

2ND XV.

Date.

Opponents.

Oct. 16.—Monmouth 2nd XV Away Home „ 19.—Warwick 2nd XV „ 23.—Hereford C.S. Away 2nd XV ,, 26.—King's Norton 2nd Home XV Home Nov. 2.—Lucton School ,, 13.—Hereford C.S. 2nd Home XV ,, 23.—Warwick 2nd XV Away ,, 30.—Worcester R.F.C. " B " XV Away

Points Result, for. agst. Won Won

8 9

6 3

Lost

Lost Won

o 26

Won 32 o Cancelled Lost

The results of the ist XV matches this season on the fixture card are not very prepossessing. Up to date, they have played nine matches, won four and lost five. Last year, the fact was bemoaned that the forwards let the backs down. This year, it can be said that the backs have let the forwards down. Against larger and heavier packs, the forwards have done yeoman service and proved themselves superior to their opponents. They have not shown, e,xcept in one match, any of the " sleepiness " which was one of the characteristics of former packs. This circumstance may have been due to the fact that six of them were old colours of last year. They have a tendency in a forward rush to try and pick up the ball from the loose, but otherwise their footwork is good. The pack, this year, is more mobile than that of last year and the result is that the forwards have scored more tries than it is usual for forwards to do. The threequarters have been a disappointment. The lack of centres was felt and the weakness of the team may be accounted as due to this fact. Although Mr. Bentley gave much time to coaching them, they never seemed to do well, and it cannot be said that it was due to ignorance that they

THE VIGORNIAN.

682

failed. They showed a lack of initiative and determination and a seeming inability to put into effectual practice what they knew was the right thing. The halves, this year, are good, their handling of the ball and their passing being safe. The second XV are above the standard of the School's former 2nd XV's. On examining results it will be found that they have won 4 and lost 3 matches. But here again this was mainly due to the forwards. They too have shown that they do not lack determination and thrust. Junior Rugger has proceeded this term with much keenness. Plenty of talent has shown itself, particularly outside the scrum. This was noticeable last year and ensures that there will not be a lack of halves and threequarters in future years. Thanks to Mr. Burnett, Mr. Pedder and Mr. PowellEvans, it has been possible to organise games and practices on whole school-days. This has been of great value and has helped to raise the standard of rugger in the School. We should like here to express our gratitude to Mr. Tattersall for coaching the forwards so excellently and helping very much with all the football of the School; to Mr. Bentley for coaching the backs and for refereeing School games and matches; and also to Mr. Whitaker, Mr. Strong, Mr. Franklin and Mr. Michell, who have refereed games on half-holidays. The draw for the House matches has been made and it is hoped that they will be played off before the end of the term, although floods have interfered with the School Rugger of late. The draw is as follows :— Castle House Natland

L. C. DICKINS. He started very moderately but has developed into a very sound fly-half. His hands are safe and he is quick off the mark and gets his backs moving. Has a very useful kick in defence: H. S. CLARKE. A good scrum half. He gets the ball away remarkably well and goes down fearlessly in defence. P. BEAUMONT (Capt.). A sound forward all round. He has vastly improved in speed and alertness and has made an exceptionally good leader. F. CALE. Phenomenally improved. He has made himself invaluable to the side in every department of the game. Excellent as a dribbler, good in the line-out and reliable as a long distance place-kick. A. PRATT. Speedy and strong, although small. He plays with great energy and has developed well as a hooker. P. H. JACKSON i. A hard worker, who has greatly im proved in physique, intelligence and resolution. G. N. JACKSON ii. Slow, but generally in the right place through anticipation. An effective worker in the tight scrums, but he must check a tendency to get over-excited. J. F. BEAUMONT ii. An energetic and capable forward, at his best in all kinds of defence. J. H. F. DIXON. Has undoubtedly found his right place in the scrum, where he shows much more spirit and promises very well. F. H. G. BRIDGMAN. Has come on well and uses his size to advantage in line-out and tight scrums, though he is still slow and apt to be clumsy in the loose. G. H. RIDLEY. Fast and determined: always on the ball, but lacking in decisive action often. *

School House i Hostel ( Day Boys. P.B. R.G.M.

IST XV CHARACTERS. J. G. GEORGE. He is rather slow but tackles well when he gets at his man. Fields and kicks well and was rapidly improving until injuries kept him out of the side. K. M. CHATTERLEY. A speedy wing threequarter who runs with resolution. A good kick and usually safe with his hands. R. G. MEERS (Sec.). He is very fast but has not developed into as good a centre as he was wing. He is inclined to delay his passes too long, but has nevertheless been responsible for many tries, either directly or through his wing. R. H. GAWN. A fast wing threequarter and a strong, resolute runner, was shaping well until injuries kept him out of the side.

* *

THE SCHOOL v. WOLVERLEY. Lost 7—3. Played at Wolverley on Oct. I2th. Both teams were short of practice and neither appeared to find their best form. For the first ten minutes the play was almost entirely in the Worcester half of the ground and the home side's threequarters were given plenty of chances which, for a time, they failed to use. Several promising openings gave no result because of forward passes or knocks-cm. After about a quarter of an hour, however, and after some scrambling play, the Wolverley right wing picked up and ran in. The kick at goal failed. A little later the ball was passed out to the Wolverley left centre, and he finding himself shut in dropped a goal. This was a very well timed and judged effort. No further score came before half-time. Early in the second half Meers received the ball close to his own " 25 " line and made a brilliant run right through the opposing side, finishing up at a walk behind the posts. The kick at goal, however, failed. A little later Gawn sprained his ankle and was unable to proceed with the game, and although Clarke fed Meers well whenever he got an opportunity, the latter was so closely marked that he failed to make headway or openings for his threequarters. The game closed without further score, Wolverley winning by

THE VIGORNIAN. seven points to three. The game was very even but the home team missed fewer chances than the School and so thoroughly deserved their victory. School Team.—J. G. George; K. M. Chatterley, L. C. Dickins, R. S. Carter, R. H. Gawn; R. G. Meers and H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, A. Pratt, P. H. Jackson, G. N. Jackson, J. F. Beaumont, G. H. Ridley, and J. H. F. Dixon. v. MONMOUTH G.S. Won 9—6. October i6th. The School won the toss and had at the beginning the advantage of a slight wind. The School pressed hotly at the beginning and in about five minutes from the start scored from a penalty kick. After the restart of the game, Monmouth pressed hotly and made attack after attack, and at last managed to break through after a good threequarter run, and thus equalised the score. The try was unconverted. Later on from a loose scrum the School forwards heeled the ball and Meers ran through the opposing threequarters. About fifteen yards off the Monmouth goal line he was tackled by the Monmouth full-back, but he passed to Chatterley, who ran through to score behind the posts. The whistle then blew for half-time. After the interval Monmouth pressed very hotly, and from a loose scrum their inside threequarter broke through to score. The try was unconverted. The play then became keener than ever, but during a loose scrum in front of the Monmouth goal-posts, a Monmouth forward handled the ball. Cale scored from the resulting penalty. For the remaining few minutes no score was made, and the final whistle blew after a very keen and enjoyable match. The School forwards in this game did very well against a heavier and bigger pack, and it was to them that the victory was mainly due. In the threequarter line, Chatterley's running on the right wing was very good. George, at full back, also played a good game. Team.—J. G. George; K. M. Chatterley, R. G. Meers, G. E. Parlby, R. S. Carter; L. C. Dickins, H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, P. H. Jackson, G. N. Jackson, A. Pratt, J. F. Beaumont, G. H. Ridley, J. H. F. Dixon. * * * v. WARWICK SCHOOL. Lost 4—9. October igth. Warwick won the toss and elected to play with the sun at their backs. For the first fifteen minutes play was very even, both sides making attacks upon their opponents' " twenty-five " line. Then a pass on the left wing by Cale was intercepted by one of the Warwick threequarters, who ran through to score. The try was unconverted. Up to half-time there was no further score. After half-time the School pressed very hotly for some time but were unable to get through. Play again was very even. About a quarter of an hour from the end Dickins dropped a very fine goal. This produced more lively play and about three minutes

683

after the restart of the game Warwick's right wing broke right through to score just inside the touch line. This try was again unconverted. Warwick scored once again before the end of the match although the School had attacked fiercely. The main point about this game was that the School forwards did not play together and never really " woke up." There was some good footwork but this was only done by individuals. The threequarters played a good game, but failed to score, although Meers once ran through , then he kicked before he reached the Warwick full-back and the ball rolled over the dead-ball line. George, at full-back, again played a good game, and although a trifle slow kicked and tackled well. Team.—J. G. George; K. M. Chatterley, R. G. Meers, G. E. Parlby, R. S. Carter; L. C. Dickins, H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, P. H. Jackson, G. N. Jackson, A. Pratt, J. F. Beaumont, G. H. Ridley, J. H. F. Dixon. * * * SCHOOL v. HEREFORD C.S. Result: Won 14—3. This match was played at Worcester on October 23rd under very good conditions, and resulted in a very even game. Hereford attacked strongly from the kick-off, pressing the School gradually back, and seemed likely to score at any moment. However, after much forward play up and down the field, the School opened the scoring. They gained ground steadily by rushes, and at last a well-combined effort sent Cale over to score the first try, which was unconverted. Hereford again pressed strongly and succeeded in equalising, after much close play near the goal-line. The kick failed. Just before half-time the School pressed Hereford back into their own " 25." After several threequarter movements had broken down, Meers gained possession and, running strongly, beat several opponents, so that only the fullback could prevent him from crossing the line. Meers increased his pace and, after rounding the back by a beautiful swerve, went over to score an excellent try betweet» the posts. The kick at goal failed. In the second half the play was rather more scrappy, but again very even, though Hereford did not press the School so strongly. Carter scored far out on the left, after the forwards had made ground by repeated rushes. Cale converted from a difficult angle with an excellent kick. Hereford made a gallant effort to draw level again, but failed to score, while the School gained another try, which was unconverted. The forwards played well throughout, frequently gaining possession in the " scrum " and being very quick in the loose. The defence of the backs, especially of the halfbacks, was good, and the handling in attack was generally safe. School.—J. G. George; W. R. Graves-Morris, R. G. Meers, G. E. Parlby, R. S. Carter; L. C. Dickins, H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, P. H. Jackson, G. N. Jackson, A. Pratt, J. F. Beaumont, G. H. Ridley, J. H. F. Dixon. * * *

THE VIGORNIAN.

684 v. KING'S NORTON. Lost 32—0.

October 26th. The School won the toss and elected to play up-hill, the ground being on a slope, for the first half. King's Norton at the beginning pressed hard, and the School were defending most of the first ten minutes. But, seeing their backs were slightly superior to their opponents', the forwards began to heel the ball and the backs to kick. By this means the opposing team were kept clear, but a King's Norton forward gathered the ball near the School goal line and by superior weight and strength forced his way through to score an unconverted try. The School then pressed hotly and on one or two occasions nearly scored. But the King's Norton forwards took the ball clear in a magnificent dribble and heeled, to send their right wing over with a try. After half-time the School forwards tired very badly through pushing against a much heavier pack. The whole side went to pieces and King's Norton scored no fewer than seven tries before the final whistle blew. In this game the forwards were considerably outweighted, the result being that they could not take the ball and were forced to heel in their own twenty-five. Of the threequarters Meers was easily the best; both wings seemed to be afraid of tackling their men. Clarke at scrum-half played a good game against much stronger and heavier opponents. Dickins kicked well and often relieved the pressure on our goal-line. George at full-back played a weak game, but after the match was found to be suffering from a broken rib. Team.—J. G. George; J. L. Payne, R. G. Meers, G. E. Parlby, R. S. Carter; L. C. Dickins and H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, P. H. Jackson, G. N. Jackson, A. Pratt, J. F. Beaumont, G. H. Ridley, and J. H. F. Dixon. v. CHRIST CHURCH, BRECON. Lost 8—41. On Wednesday, October 3oth, the School played Christ College, Brecon. The team was not yet at full strength, Gawn still being a casualty and George having broken a rib in the previous match. For some time the game was more or less even, the School forwards being quite a match for Brecon, although the superiority of the visiting backs was obvious. The forwards made several good openings, but these were vitiated by dropped passes and indecision on the part of the threequarters. After about a quarter of an hour Brecon scored on the left wing; the try however was unconverted. They followed this by another unconverted try; then after a good opening by Dickins on the blind side, Carter touched down and Cale converted. By now, however, the Brecon threequarters had got going and by halftime their score was increased by three tries, one of which was converted. Thus at half-time the School were losing I7—5-

After the interval, Brecon pressed harder and their threequarters succeeded in breaking away several times, although the superiority of the School forwards managed to keep down the score. About half-way through the second half Beaumont i followed up a kick, and obtaining the ball ran nearly up to the Brecon line, where he passed inside to Chatterley, who scored. The kick at goal was unsuccessful. Despite this in our advantage, Brecon continued to press and their left wing scored after a splendid run. Following this, from a penalty kick for off-side, they scored a very fine dropped goal from beyond the 25-yard line. Although the School forwards subsequently played extremely well, they were unable to score and Brecon won by 41 points to 8. As a whole the Brecon side were very much faster and this fact accounted for most of their tries. The School threequarters were on the whole rather weak, especially the left wing; they were liable to drop their passes and showed lack of decision in attack. Clarke at scrum-half, although he was considerably outweighted, played a good game, also Dickins at fly-half. The forwards played excellently, though they were sometimes slow in heeling; Pratt in particular was conspicuous in the loose. Team.—G. H. Ridley; K. M. Chatterley, R. G. Meers, G. E. Parlby, R. S. Carter; L. C. Dickins, H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, A. Pratt, G. N. Jackson, P. H. Jackson, J. F. Beaumont, J. H. F. Dixon, A. P. Shrimpton.

* * » v. WOLVERLEY. Won 38—o. November gth. For the return match against Wolverley two changes took place in the team which lost to Brecon ; Dixon being out of action with an injured knee, his place was taken by Bridgman, while Couzens came into the threequarter line instead of Carter. For the first few minutes Wolverley attacked strongly and seemed likely to score, but ground was soon lost by bad passing, and about five minutes after the kickoff Dickins, after a brilliant run, touched down between the posts, Clarke converting. The School now seemed to have recovered from a momentary dullness and torpidity, for before long, after a good movement by Beaumont i and Cale, Chatterley scored, Clarke being again successful with the kick. The School continued to press, the forwards heeling cleanly and Clarke passing from the scrum with speed and accuracy. A third try was obtained by Meers, the kick at goal failing. At half-time the score stood at 21—o, further tries being added by Pratt and Cale, the second of which Clarke converted. Wolverley seemed to play harder after the interval, and it was a considerable time before Chatterley scored an unconverted try. Once the School's superiority had been reasserted, Wolverley seemed to cease all effective resistance; only once did they come near scoring. When, time came further tries had been added by Dickins, Meers, Pratt and Cale, the second of which Cale converted. The School thus

THE VIGORNIAN. ended winners by 38 points to nil. The side as a whole was very much more together than in the Brecon match. The play of the threequarters showed a marked improvement, fewer passes being dropped and more decision displayed in attack. Whereas in the previous match they failed to make use of opportunities offered by the forwards, in this match they nearly always gained ground. Nevertheless there is still room for considerable improvement, and they cannot really have been said to have attained a hight enough standard. Clarke played an even better game than against Brecon, his passing from the scrum being remarkably accurate. Once or twice he cut through with great effect. The forwards played well as a pack. School team.—G. H. Ridley; K. M. Chatterley, R. G. Meers, D. A. Couzens, G. E. Parlby; L. C. Dickins and H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, A. Pratt, G. N. Jackson, P. H. Jackson, J. F. Beaumont, A. P. Shrimpton and F. H. G. Bridgman. * * *

v. HEREFORD C.S. Won ii—o. November I3th. The Hereford ground being flooded they had obtained a ground which was curiously marked out. The game started with Hereford pressing very strongly and they seemed at any moment likely to score, but the forwards managed to relieve the pressure by some splendid footwork. About ten minutes from the start a penalty was given the School just beyond the Hereford " twenty-five " line and Cale succeeded in scoring with a magnificent kick. Play, then, became keener than ever and was confined to the middle of the field. Chances were lost by the School threequarters, who fumbled or passed badly, Meers especially giving bad passes. Up to half-time there was no further score and the School were leading by 3 points to nil. After the interval Hereford pressed strongly, and at this time a curious incident occurred. After a good threequarter run, Hereford passed the ball to their wing, who dived over our twenty-five line under the impression that it was our goal-line. Hereford stopped and thus the School were able to relieve the pressure by gaining about half the field. Then a penalty kick near Hereford goal line was given the School. Cale taking the ball back, obtained this with another good kick. Immediately after the restart a good opening was made by the forwards, but it ended in touch about ten yards from the Hereford goal-line. From the " throw-in " Pratt obtained the ball, and forcing his way through the opposing forwards scored a. try which was converted by Cale. A feature of this game was the very good place-kicking by Cale, who obtained for the School 8 out of the total n points. The forwards played a good game, Pratt, Jackson ii and Beaumont ii being conspicuous. The threequarters were very poor. They fumbled and gave bad passes. Clarke and Dickins, the halves, played well. Team.—G. H. Ridley; K. M. Chatterley, R. G. Meers, D. A. Couzens, G. E. Parlby; L. C. Dickins and H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, A. Pratt, G. N. Jackson,

685

P. H. Jackson, J. F. Beaumont, A. P. Shrimpton, and F. H. G. Bridgman. * * * SCHOOL v. CHELTENHAM COLLEGE 2ND XV. Lost 16—3. On Saturday, November i6th, the School played Cheltenham College and XV; the ground had not really recovered from the rain and was rather slippery. Immediately following the kick-off, Cheltenham came very near scoring through one of their forwards, who was unaccountably allowed to break through. The School, however, soon recovered from this lapse and play became fairly even, our forwards seeming slightly superior. After about ten minutes the opposing threequarters participated in a good movement which resulted in a converted try. Following upon this the School pressed, the forwards heeling cleanly, although the threequarters spoilt some of their chances. Soon before half-time, however, Meers broke through, and after a good run succeeded in sending Dickins over near the corner-flag. Cale failed to convert and thus at half-time Cheltenham Jed by 5 points to 3. On play being resumed Cheltenham before long scored a second try, which was unconverted. It still remained likely that we should win, however, the forwards showing themselves more than a match for their opponents, although the Cheltenham threequarters were both faster and safer in defence. For a long time the School succeeded in holding Cheltenham, but towards the end of the game, the latter began to press very hard and succeeded in scoring two more tries before time, one of which was converted. Thus the School were defeated by 16 points to 3. In many ways the play of the School side showed a marked improvement considering the absence of Chatterley and Dixon. The threequarters held their passes much better and were more determined in attack. Ridley, at full back, fielded and kicked well, but his tackling was weak. School team.—G. H. Ridley; R. S. Carter, R. G. Meers, F. H. Yarnold, and G. E. Parlby; L. C. Dickins and H. S. Clarke; P. Beaumont, F. Cale, A. Pratt, G. N. Jackson, P. H. Jackson, J. F. Beaumont, A. P. Shrimpton, and F. H. G. Bridgman.

Cricket. The draw for the Inter-House Cup was as follows:— Castle House | Day Boys }

} I

1 Hostel School House

•>

In the first round Day Boys easily defeated Castle House by eight wickets. In the semi-final Day Boys met Hostel, who were really much weaker than Castle House, but gave Day Boys a much better game, the latter, however,

686

THE VIGORNIAN.

eventually winning by 7 wickets. In the other semi-final Natland put up a very good fight against School House, who won a very keenly-contested game by one wicket. Day Boys now met School House in the final, and a very keen game was expected, although School House's team was half composed of rowers, but the latter proved unable to resist their opponent's bowling. When Day Boys compiled 189 runs in their second innings School House seemed to give up hope ; nevertheless to dismiss Day Boys for 87 in the first innings was a remarkable achievement for a rowing house, Jackson i's bowling being especially praiseworthy. The score in the final was as follows :— DAY BOYS. 2nd Innings, ist Innings. F. Cale c Da vies b Jackson i 5 c Dixon b Jackson i 48 43 A. C. Morgan i b Blandford 14 Ibw b Bain c & b Bain ... ... 6 F. A. Hughes c Davies i b Blandford 9 c Gray b Bain ... 24 J. H. L. Beard c Richards b Jackson i i i K. M. Chatterley b Jackson i o b Blandford c Dixon b Jackson i 5 F. H. Yarnold c Thome b Jackson i 27 ... ... 25 W. F. R. Morgan ii run out o not out 15 A. L. Flay not out 17 b Jackson i A. Pratt b Blandford ... i c Jackson i b Blandford 8 b Dixon 4 O. H. Davies iii run out M. H. Cullen absent ill run out ... ... o JO Extras Extras Total

Total

189

BOWLING. 2nd Innings. ist Innings. Blandford 3 for 30 Blandford 2 for 48 Jackson i 4 for 44 Bain 3 for 49 Jackson i 3 for 58 Dixon i for 7 SCHOOL HOUSE. ist Innings. * 2nd Innings. o D. W. Bain c Morgan i b Cale o b Cale 2 P. A. Thorne b Cale 3 b Cale b Yarnotd ... 8 H. F. Blandford c Beard b Cale o o J. H. F. Dixon b Hughes ... 6 b Cale 7 J. Gray c and b Cale o Ibw b Cale ... 8 O. R. Davies i Ibw b Cale... 8 c Flay b Cale 8 R. G. Meers c Pratt b Cale... 22 run out ... ... o P. H. Jackson i run out ... 4 not out 18 G. N. Jackson ii not out ... 14 run out A. Richards b Cale o c Yarnold b Hughes 2 ... i G. S. Clinch i Ibw b Cale ... o c Pratt b Cale Extras ... 4 Extras 8 Total

Total

BOWLING. ist Innings. 2nd Innings. 8 for 27 Cale 6 for 25 Cale Hughes i for 23 Yarnold i for 24 Davies iii o for 9 Hughes i for 4 Result: Day Boys won by 153 runs.

Rowing. This year the final of the Senior House IV's took place on Speech Day, July iath. The houses concerned were Castle House and School House, and were represented by: Bow. 2. 3. Str. Cox.

CASTLE HOUSE. G. E. Parlby. R. S. Carter. D. A. B. Hopkin (capt.). C. F. Assheton. R. P. Royle.

SCHOOL HOUSE. Bow. R. G. Meers. 2. G. N. Jackson. 3. J. H. F. Dixon. Str. D. W. A. Molony (capt.). Cox. A. R. Hallett. The race was rowed over the Deanery course; School House won. the toss, and chose the St. John's side. Both boats got well off the mark ; School House, although rowing at a slower rate of striking, took the lead, but at the end of the first minute the boats drew level. By the Diglis Hotel, Assheton put in a good spurt, to which Molony was unable to respond, and by the time the Cathedral Ferry was reached, Castle House were leading by a length and a half. They gradually increased this lead, in spite of several attempts on the part of School House to equalize, and finished a good three lengths ahead. The slow rate of striking of the School House boat was a notable feature of the race and probably accounted for their defeat. Over such a short course there was no necessity to have spared the crew to such an extent. Even had the course been longer it is doubtful if they would have been successful with such tactics, as the crew was not well together, and did not respond sufficiently. The winning crew was fortunate in having an experienced " stroke " and a powerful " three," well backed up by two hard-working blades. The crew as a whole is to be congratulated on winning so easily. They thoroughly deserved their victory, by the determination to win, which they displayed throughout the race. Though hardly spectacular, the race showed the high standard of rowing achieved by both crews, after being together little over ten days.

THE VIGORNIAN.

O.C.C. Rotts. This term 27 recruits were enrolled and formed into one platoon. Last year's recruits were sent up into No. 2 Platoon and No. i Platoon was formed of those who were to take Cert. " A " this term or who will take it next term. * * * Sixteen candidates took the practical examination this term. Of these, twelve were successful and took the written exam, on November i2th. The result is not yet to hand. * * * Cpl. Meers was made was made captain of shooting, and has carried out a considerable amount of shooting on the miniature range. * * * On Sunday, November lyth, Armistice Sunday, the contingent attended Church Parade. We assembled at the Shire Hall and were there inspected by the Lord Lieutenant, who also took the salute during the march past the Cenotaph after the service.

On November 8th, Field Operations were carried out on Ripple Common. It was decided this year to include a somewhat longer march than is usual in the operations. We therefore went by 'bus to Severn Stoke and from there marched to the Bell Inn Crossing. At this point, after a halt, the forces were divided. A Westland force, under C.S.M. Beaumont i, proceeded to Ripple, and an Eastland force, commanded by Sgt. Carter, to Hill Croome. The Eastland force defended and consisted almost entirely of Cert. "A " candidates. These were split up into a number of skeleton sections in order to give as many candidates as possible an opportunity of handling a section in the Field. The operation was very successful. Westland force carried out their attack correctly. Their original formation was good, and when meeting opposition they adopted the right tactics. The first serious opposition was met just east of the Tewkesbury-Worcester road. Here Sgt. Carter had disposed his sections in good defensive positions and Westland were compelled to carry out a flanking movement, which was successful. Eastland were forced to retire and Westland were enabled to reorganise under cover before continuing their advance. The second phase was equally well carried out, although the attacking force deployed earlier than was necessary. The defending force made good use of the ground, which provided a good deal of natural cover, and their withdrawal under fire to a final defensive position was well carried out. Very few mistakes were made by either side, in observing the main principles, but there is still too much carelessness on the part of individuals in taking proper cover. The chief offenders are platoon and section commanders themselves, who, in directing their sections, seemed to think they were immune from rifle and machine-gun fire.

687

After tea at a farm which was conveniently near we marched back to the Bell Inn Crossing and proceeded home from that point by "bus. «

* »

The Contingent went into camp last term at Tidworth Pennings. An application to increase the number of the camp contingent was refused on the grounds of lack of accommodation, and we again took only 60 other ranks. We were unfortunate in the weather, which was worse during these few days than at any time during the whole summer. In spite of this a fair amount of training was done. Night operations were held in the rain, but, as our posts were in a wood, conditions were not quite so bad as for some other units. The Sports on Sunday were interrupted by rain before the band competition could take place. This was particularly disappointing in view of the fact that the band, with many willing helpers, had spent a very considerable time in getting their instruments and equipments in good order. The Competition, however, was held on the next day and the band won first place. The result reflects great credit on Under-Officer D. A. B. Hopkin and Sgt. Molony and on all members of the band, who, by assiduous practice in their spare time, have reached a standard sufficiently high to beat many other schools in open competition. In spite of the weather the camp was enjoyed by everyone. The contingent were enabled on one evening to visit the Tidworth Searchlight Tattoo, a magnificent spectacle which was well worth seeing. We were glad to have a visit from several O.V. Mr. Tattersall came down with E. C. Halton and G. W. Rowland, and Gill and W. Graves-Morris also paid us a visit. R. H. N. Wood was in camp with the Sandhurst Demonstration Platoon and P. H. Graves-Morris with the Worcestershire Regiment alongside us. The following promotions and appointments were made this term :— To be C.S.M.— Sergt. P. Beaumont i. To be Sergeants.— Cpl. R. S. Carter. Cpl. A. L. Flay. To be Corporals.— L/Cpl. R. G. Meers. „ G. P. L. Taylor. „ A. H. S. Powell. „ P. A. Thorne. To be L/Corporal (2/12/29).— Cdt. F. H. G. Bridgman. Sgt. Carter to command No. i Platoon. Sgt. Ridley „ No. 2 „ Sgt. Flay „ No. 3 To be Band Sergeant—Sgt. Carter.

THE VIGORNIAN.

688

O.C.C. Accounts. Year ending October ist, 1929. INCOME.

£ •• d114 o 10 118 15 4 227 2 i 23 15 3 35 19 8 133 16 o 16 4

Fees 3rd Term 1928 „ ist „ 1929 ,, 2nd „ 1929 Staff Captain ... Army Draft Government Grant Bell & Sons

£654 5 6

EXPENDITURE.

£ Dr. Balance Wages Field Day i

...

s. d.

37 16 4 151 13 4 20 5 o

„ 2

37 7 J i

„ 3 Musketry Clothing and Equipment Camp Band Stationery Army School P.T. ... Bank Charges Sundries Cr. Balance

27 o o 18 n 10 96 7 n 172 7 10 ... 2 9 10 7 2 6 13 4 4 9 11 2 8 0 0 52 7 10

...

£654 5 6 A. J. BENTLEY, Capt., Officer Commanding.

Ccctures. On Saturday, Oct. 26th, we had the pleasure of listening once again to Mr. Marcus Holmes, who has lectured to us twice previously. His subject this time was " The Dutch School of Art," and he began by showing us the origin of that school, in the defeat of the Spaniards, and its aim, to portray the scenes and characters of Dutch life as a national memorial. He then proceeded to show us slides, first of all of the Haarlem School, namely Frans Hals, famous for his dexterity in portraying the fleeting expressions of men, and Jan Steen, who depicts scenes of ordinary village life. Secondly he dealt with the Amsterdam School, whose chief was Rembrandt. Of his we were shown several selfportraits, and also examples of his religious pictures, which are very different in conception and design from those of the Italian School. Also of this School were Vermeer of Delft, whose work shows wonderful effects of brilliant light, De Hooch, Terborch, and Metsu. Finally Mr. Holmes showed

us several landscapes, including Vermeer's famous " View of Delft," and works by Ruysdael and Hobbema, thus concluding a most interesting lecture. If we have any criticism to offer it is that too much attention was paid to Frans Hals and Rembrandt, thereby somewhat excluding painters, such as Vermeer, of whose work we would have liked to have seen many more examples. Mr. Holmes, however, deserves the highest praise for thoroughly interesting us in a subject which, though giving scope for tediousness, yet proved in his hands a source of extreme enjoyment.

* * * On Saturday, Nov. gth, we received a second visit from Mr. W. M. Webb and his Punch and Judy Show, which proved the outstanding success of the term. The evening began with a short lecture on the history of the show, but most of us were prevented by expectation of the second part to pay much attention to or to take much interest in this. Nevertheless it provided us with some very new and surprising knowledge. The show was in every way excellent, one point in which it was a distinct improvement on the former performance being that Toby did not suffer so much from stage-fright. Particular amusement was aroused by Punch's attempts to count his victims and the clown's vain chase of the butterfly. Accompaniment was provided by a very vigorous " orchestra " of drum and panpipes, which seemed quite untiring and very versatile. But about the show it is sufficient to say that there was not one of us, from the oldest down to the youngest (who, as a matter of fact, seem far the most superior and disdainful of such " childish " amusements), who did not leave the Hall suffering seriously from the effects of excessive laughter. On Saturday, Nov. i6th, Captain Knight gave us a very interesting lecture on " The Romance of the Golden Eagle." It took the form of an account of an expedition to the north of Scotland in 1926 for the purpose of photographing the Golden Eagle in its native haunts; during the period of the General Strike, when the expedition was postponed, Captain Knight took several photographs of smaller birds, which he showed us; amongst them was an owl which he succeeded in taming. Eventually the expedition took place, and the first eyrie was reached, miles from anywhere in the bleakest part of Sutherlandshire. The most surprising fact about this eyrie was the murder of the male eaglet by the female, a process which lasted for a considerable time and proved quite impossible to prevent. Of this the two young birds and of the female eagle we were shown several excellent photographs, which however were quite surpassed by those obtained in a second eyrie, situated in far more pleasant country and considerably easier of access. In this eyrie the young birds were not so hostile to each other, and their development was followed in photographs till they became practically full grown. Then, quite by surprise, a third eyrie was discovered, perched precariously on a. narrow ledge; the nest was blown down in a gale, but landed quite unharmed and with its owners uninjured. Captain Knight described to us how he had taken home with him one of the young eagles from this eyrie and trained it for

THE VIGORNIAN. falconry ; it proved however too dangerous to keep, and was released near Its former home. But since then he had succeeded in completely taming a golden eagle—a very great achievement. It is quite impossible in an account of this lecture to give any real impression of its excellencies, or to do more than offer a bald account of it. But all the same it is possible to state how interesting and absorbing it proved to all of us, and to thank Captain Knight for a very excellent evening's entertainment.

SDooting Rotes. Shooting has been rather handicapped this term by the inability of the Certificate " A " candidates to practise at the usual times. A smaller number of people than usual have been able to shoot, but they have been given more than one chance to gain first or second classes, for it seems impossible for anyone, if he has seldom shot before, to show an/ talent at the first practice which he attends. As a result of this policy there have been six new first-class shots and nine second-class. There are six members of last year's VIII left, and, as there are plenty of old first-class shots, it should not prove difficult to select a very good VIII for the coming year. Our thanks are due to Lieut. Whitaker and to C.S.M.I. Cooper for the trouble and time they have spent in superintending Shooting this term. R.G.M.

"StealtD." Slowly, with infinite caution, he emerged from his hidingplace, his practised eye taking in at a glance the contents of the room. He was desperate now : at his first attempt he had been startled, and it was a case of " now or never." That the odds were all against him, he knew full well; it was a thousand to one chance that he could get across that room without betraying his presence to its three other occupants. But they had their backs to him, he reflected, and were talking in loud tones, and, as he had often found to his advantage before, his slight build enabled him to move almost noiselessly. Anyway, there were the wife and kids waiting for him at home, and on this of all nights, Christmas Eve, he must not fail them. And so, screwing up his courage, he started on his perilous journey, every nerve strained, hugging the wall as close as he could. Meanwhile, all unconscious of what lurked in the shadows but a few feet away, we three girls sat prattling cheerfully round the fire. By now he was half-way across without making a single sound. And then some instinct made Joyce look round, and she saw him. Never shall I forget the ghastly look of utter horror that came to her face, the stifled scream which fol-

689

lowed. As for me, I was too numbed with terror to move or utter a sound. Peggy, with great presence of mind, grasped a cushion and hurled it at him. And that, thank heaven, was enough for the mouse, and he scuttled back to his hole as quietly as he had come. "JAKE."

COtss Rotes. We have opened the Chess season quite successfully this year, winning two matches and losing one. The team is stronger this year than usual, for-none of last year's team has left; Graves-Morris, however, has teen unable to play. * * * The American tournament, in which the Centre Pawn opening was compulsory, was finished at the end of last season. The results were: i W. R. Graves-Morris, a T. S. Broadhurst, 3 G. A. Cockayne. Prizes were very kindly given by Mr. Whitaker. * * * Keen interest has been shown in the competition for the Chess Cup, which has been started and will be finished this term. At present it has reached the final round, in which are P. Headeach, who defeated W. R. Graves-Morris, and O. R. Craze, who beat T. S. Broadhurst in the semi-final. * * * On Tuesday, November I5th, a match was played in the Sixth Form Room against the Staff. The result was a win for the School by 4$—J. The games were :— THE SCHOOL. THE STAFF. J Rev. R. J. Whitaker - J T. S. Broadhurst i Mr. J. H. L. Burnett - o O. R. Craze i Mr. A. D. Franklin - o J. H. Waylen i Mr. J. K. Michell - o P. Headeach i Mr. S. D. Strong - o F. T. C. Williams 4i

* # * On Thursday, November 24th, a match was played against the Worcester City II. The result was a win for the School by sJ—1£. Mr. Whitaker kindly consented to play, as Graves-Morris was unable to play at the last minute. The scores were :— THE CITY II. THE SCHOOL. i G. A. Probert Rev. R. J. Whitaker J* F. B. Ball T. S. Broadhurst o W. T. Hayes O. R. Craze i* R. J. Manfield J. H. Waylen o H. G. Perkins P. Headeach o F. T. C. Williams C. E. Mapp W. H. O. Woodrow - o J. E. A. King -

* By adjudication.

THE VIGORN1AN.

6go

On Tuesday, November 5th, a match was played against the Worcester College for the Blind. The result was very creditable considering the strength of the College team, all of whom are good enough to play for the County. The result was a win for the College by 5i to 2$. The scores were : — THE SCHOOL. T. S. Broadhurst O. R. Craze J. H. Waylen P. Headeach F. T. C. Williams J. E. A. King G. A. Cockayne J. F. R. Jones-Williams

J» o J» i* o o i o*

THE COLLEGE. A. R. N. Cross C. C. G. Nock P. A. Hughes R. O. Brown H. L. Evans R. H. Pettifer J. Metcalfe H. W. Gamble -

£* i J* J* i i o i*

Fri., Sat., Sun.,

* * *

Finally, we should like to take advantage of this opportunity to thank Mr. Whitaker for his never-failing interest in the Club ; and we hope that the keenness shown by our junior members will continue and increase. O.R.C.

ScDool Officers. Captain of School Captain of Football Secretary of Football Captain of Fives Captain of Gym. Captain of Shooting Secretary of Chess -

F. H. Yarnold. P. Beaumont. R. G. Meers. R. G. Meers. R. S. Carter. R. G. Meers. O. R. Craze.

Captains of Houses : — School House . Castle House Day Boys . Hostel Natland . .

. . .

R. G. Meers. R. S. Carter. F. H. Yarnold. F. H. G. Bridgman. G . H . Ridley.

School Monitors—F. H. Yarnold, P. Beaumont, R. G. Meers, R. S. Carter, F H. G. Bridgman F Cale Editors of the Vigomian —F. H. Yarnold, F. H. G. Bridgman, P. Bowles. W

Rain

Scbool Calendar.

* By adjudication.

King's Scbolarsblp examination. The following were successful in the Examination held on November nth and izth : — i. T. N. Gray, Worcester Cathedral Choir School. 2. G. B. Torrens, } 3. A. Richards, 1 Kin s 4. K. F. Bartrip, > g' School, Worcester. 5. R. L. Thomas, } 6. W. Blaiklock, Carlisle Preparatory School. 7. C. A. M. Boole, St. Peter's School, Weston-super-Mare. A House Scholarship has been awarded to D. O. Butler, Gunnersbury Preparatory School.

Tavlrw

Wnvlftn

~ •• ~

<tirim*\tstn

Sept. 20. Boarders Return. ,, 21. Term Begins. „ 22. School Celebration of the Holy Communion at 8.45 a.m. Sat., Oct. 26. Lecture. Marcus Holmes. " The Dutch School of Art." Sat., Nov. 2. Half Term. Fri., „ 8. O.T.C. Field Day on Brockeridge Common. Sat., „ 9. Lecture. W. M. Webb. " Punch and Judy. Mon., ,, n. ) ,„ Tll iues., ,, 12. j[-King's Scholarship Examination. Sat., ,, 16. Lecture. Capt. Knight. " The Golden Eagle." Thurs., Dec. 5. School Service. 3 p.m. Thurs., ,, 12. School Service. 3 p.m. Sat., „ 14. Lecture. Rev. W. H. C. Malton. " South Africa." Thurs., „ 19. O.V. Rugger Match. School Concert. Fri., „ 20. Exeunt Omnes.

Cbe Ctbrarp. The following new books have been added to the School Library : —• Bretherton Khaki or Field Grey' H E Morris The Poet and the Lunatics G. K. Chesterton J Stephens Deirdre Berry & Co Dornford Yates The Time Machine H. G. Wells Mr Mulliner Speaking P. G. Wodehouse Summer Lightning P. G. Wodehouse The Crouching Beast The Ivory Child Temple Tower

.... Valentine Williams Rider Haggard " Sapper "

THE VIGORNIAN. Mrs. Bindle The Indiscretions of Archie Courts of the Morning The W. Plan Farthing Hall , The Missing Masterpiece The Club of Queer Trades My Brother Jonathan

Herbert Jenkins P. G. Wodehouse J. Buchan G. Seton H. Walpole & J. B. Priestley Hilaire Belloc G. K. Chesterton F. B. Young

691

ELEMENTARY CERTIFICATES (5).—P. M. K. Embling, T. F. Higginson, J. D. Phillips, J. B. Smyth, J. M. Tate. As compared with last year's results of 7 Proficiency Certificates and Bronze Medallions and 4 Elementary Certificates, these results are extremely creditable. Great credit is due to the successful candidates, and to Mr. Nicholls, who in September was elected by the Committee of the Society as Honorary Associate, " for ability in teaching the subject of life saving, general zeal and successful results in advancing the aims and objects of the Society."

Swimming. The Swimming Sports this year were held on Wednesday and Thursday, July 24th and 25th, the cup being won by Castle House with 52 points, Natland being second with 43 points. The results were as follows:— Beginners' Race.—ist Richards, and Hall i, 3rd Fletcher. Back Race (under 15).—ist Royle ii, 2nd Thompson, 3rd Boddington. Back Race (open).—ist George, 2nd Hopkin i, 3rd Beaumont i. Sprint (open).—ist Beaumont ii, 2nd Beaumont i, 3rd Assheton. Sprint (under 1$).—ist Coombs, 2nd Donald, 3rd Dixon. Long Race (open).—ist Assheton, 2nd Beaumont i, 3rd Hopkin i. Long Race (under 15).—ist Coombs, 2nd Thompson, 3rd Boddington. Diving.—ist Dickins i, 2nd Carter, 3rd Hartill. Points for House Cup.— 1. Castle House 52 points 2. Natland 43 „ 3. School House 33 „ 4. Hostel 24 „ 5.

Day Boys

„

Mr. Nicholls held Swimming Classes for 21, 19 of whom succeeded in learning to swim.

are Saolng. Under the rules of the Royal Life Saving Society, an Examination was held during the Summer Term, at the Sansome Walk Baths, when a large class (under their Instructor, Mr. H. E. Nicholls) won awards as follows :— PROFICIENCY CERTIFICATES AND BRONZE MEDALLIONS (19).—H. F. Blandford, M. C. B. Boddington, P. Bowles, R. S. Carter, H. S. Clarke, D. H. Clinch, D. E. M. Coombs, J. R. A. Embling, A. L. Flay, W. R. GravesMorris, C. A. Hartill, P. W. Liggins, G. E. Parlby, D. J. U. Pilbeam, D. C. Royle, M. W. Rumsey, A. R. E. Thomas, C. G. L. Thompson, J. Wynne-Woolley.

One Ullnur's Rlgftt. The snow lies on the ground, and, all about, The trees gleam ghostly "gainst the deep blue sky, Wherein the moon and stars with their soft rays Contend to dim the lights that line the road. Here merry groups of children pass, to play On some near hill: while down upon the lake The skaters glide, from darkness into light Of flaming torches, then to gloom once more. Out in the countryside the snow lies pale Over the swelling hill, on farm and byre. On, on, the whiteness stretches, with no break Save the stark trees which, black against it, show Alone and lifeless in the winter's grip. The moon on high with her cold light looks down To guard all men and every living thing, Like some great spirit brooding over space, A shining symbol of the love of God Himself for this great world, so small to Him. J.R.A.E.

Coercion. By way of introduction I have only this to say That on a wintry morning on a cold and wintry day, I was asked to write a poem, or forced is more the word, He didn't mind if it was good or rotten or absurd. He said, " It can be anything, yes, anything you please, From planets down to atoms, from elephants to fleas; But I want it to be cheery, and rollicking, and breezy, You might just get to work on it, it's very, very easy." By "he." I mean the editor, the man' whose word is law, The man who's very clever, but dishonest to the core; But this is all in brackets, we'll go on quickly now, And I will tell you what he said, and why, and when, and how. " You've got to write a poem," said the editor to me, When I was talking calmly and sipping at my tea; His vehemence made me jumpy, my nerves ran all amoke, I swallowed somehow back to front and then began to choke.

THE VIGORNIAN.

6g2

The editor was Irish, he wouldn't take a " no," He held me in his talons, and wouldn't let me go. I asked him if he'd pay me; he nearly had a fit; He said it was my duty, and I ought to do my bit. I fought a losing battle for a week or even more. I'll never fight so hard again, I never had before. I felt my strength was ebbing ; it went from bad to worse, And finally I crumpled up and wrote for him this verse. R.G.M.

to a Sausage. 0 sausage, as I see you Alone upon a plate, 1 quickly bolt my porridge down For fear I'll be too late. But when I said you were alone, I fear I told a lie, For on a piece of crisp fried bread You nestle comfortably. I may return elated With you, sausage, borne in state, Or else return^ oh woe is me! To sit in hope, and wait. Then after frantic ringings, You come up speedily, I gaze upon you, my delight, And eye you greedily. With one long gulp I've done it, I'll never see you again. The thought of having lost you Slowly numbs my brain. Oh, sausage, how I miss you ! But still, I must not weep. I'll feed upon your memory, And wait another week.

J.G.

CDe Duke or fork's Camp. The four hundred representatives from public schools and industrial centres all over England met on August 3rd at the Royal Mews. Here we had lunch and were introduced to our section leaders and to one another. Our Royal Host was unfortunately prevented by public duties from being present to welcome us, but a letter was read in which he wished us all the best of luck and said that he was looking forward to spending the following Thursday with us all. We were then shown over the Mews, and after a little sight-seeing set out by train from Cannon Street for New Romney. Rain had been falling in London, but at New Romney the sun was shining, and we enjoyed a very pleasant walk to camp along the shore. On our arrival supper was

ready; afterwards we were taken to our sleeping huts, and then went into the large marquee for an entertainment by members of the staff. By eleven o'clock, when we retired to bed, we began to feel quite at home. On Sunday morning we were introduced to the members of the staff; and later all joined in a service very suitable for the occasion. In the evening Sir Henry Segrave gave us, at the request of Sir Charles Wakefield, one of the patrons of the camp, a lecture on " Speed! " which proved most interesting. On Monday morning the routine of the week began. The organisation of the camp was the same as usual. We were divided into twenty sections, each consisting of ten boys from public schools and ten from industry. Between these were held the inter-section sports, and football matches. In the mornings we played all kinds of games from tug-of-war to foot-and-hand-netball (which rather resembles pass-ball) and in the afternoons there were intersection " rugger " and " soccer " matches. Our section, J, fought its way into the final of the latter, but was then beaten. The record of everyone's achievements was preserved with great accuracy, and each afternoon the results of the day's work were posted in the dining-hall. At supper the Camp Chief awarded a prize of honour to the top section to be kept until the following evening. There was also a " booby " prize. On Tuesday rain fell heavily for much of the day, but could not damp our spirits, especially as the camp was so well managed as almost to make one forget the dismal surroundings, in the excitement of indoor sports or watching films in the soaking marquee. On Wednesday evening we broadcast a short concert, for which we had been rehearsing all the week. Great amusement was caused by the large printed signs which the Entertainments Staff employed as the only possible means of controlling the vocal efforts of four hundred stalwarts singing in unison. They bore such words as "whistle! " or "louder." At the rehearsals often two people worked them at once. The results may easily be imagined. On Thursday the Duke of York came to visit us, accompanied by many celebrities. We first saw him at lunch, when he was already wearing the traditional camp costume. After dinner all the visitors had to make two-minute speeches. If they exceeded that space of time, their perorations were cut short by the loud report of a huge " wild-west " revolver. Later in the afternoon came the great obstacle-race, which the Duke and other spectators watched with great amusement. Also the camp photograph was taken. After tea the Duke bathed with us in the sea, and then attended the concert. About nine o'clock he was forced to go, after speaking a few words to us and reminding everyone of the camp motto, " Play the Game." After that he departed, amid great cheers from all the campers, who were lined up by the road-side. On Friday afternoon came the great sporting event, the cross-country race. The course was only about two miles long, but was nevertheless very grinding. The first man

THE VIGORNIAN. home received 400 marks and so on, down to the last arrival, who received one. We, the School's representatives, managed to amass just over five hundred marks between us. In> the evening we had an especially long and exciting concert, after which we all trooped down to the beach ; here there was a huge bonfire, around which we all stood in a big ring and sang the National Anthem and " Auld Lang Syne." Then we chaired our section-leaders and the camp officials. On our return to camp, there was an organised pillow-fight of an exceedingly savage nature, in which as a matter of fact all organisation was lacking and often we were attacking men on our own side. At last we turned in just about midnight. On the following afternoon we said Good-bye at Cannon Street Station, feeling rather sorry that a delightful week's holiday seemed to have drawn to a close so soon. Everyone we met did his best to make all the rest enjoy themselves, and a real spirit of comradeship was seen In all the week's pleasures. The staff also was excellent and seemed to know exactly what was needed for our enjoyment. In conclusion we strongly advise anyone who wants a pleasant holiday of an energetic nature and a really novel experience to go next year.

F.H.Y. J.F.R.J.W.

693

We do not wish to draw any contrast with Cambridge, because there is not all that difference between us; we cannot but deprecate the late series of defeats at Rowing and Rugger that we have suffered, but of course Varsity fixtures and their results do not necessarily point to any lack of morale in the Varsity as a whole. Well well: meet you all at Twickenham on the loth—but we forgot. Sorry. Didn't mean to gloat. Anyhow we assume that you have no doubts as to the result; as there probably won't be a Cambridge Letter to lead your judgments astray, you will not be too taken aback when the news arrives—which by the time this letter gets into print will be stale news. Now to turn to our School for Scandal. (These Dramatis Persona are not to be taken too seriously.) M. R. CRAZE (Hertford). Our venerable grey-beard. He now walks soberly in a B.A. gown—" quantum mutatus ab illo . . .", but is as hearty as ever. K. N. Ross (Merton). A social light. Plays Bridge. Has attained Classical Fame, and no Lecture is complete without his authority on some knotty problem. G. E. CHURCHILL (Hertford). He used to trust his bicycle but it let him down badly one day. Unfortunately his left hand only was injured, and his Tutor refused to believe that he wrote left-handed. J. B. EDWARDS (Wadham). Says he has done no work since he left School. Some of us date back even earlier.

OxTord Cetter. To the Editors of the " Vigornian." Dear Sirs, Having read many an Oxford Letter from your point of view, and still retaining memories of that other life at School, we feel some trepidation now that the task of writing one has fallen to us. Oxford in our imagination then was a mysterious place where " men " spoke a superior drawling jargon, and lazed in armchairs smoking, or engaged in unknown occupation called Toggers. However, now we are up here we know that—but perhaps this is a libel on your intelligence : doubtless you are acquainted with the Real Oxford as well as ourselves. At any rate conversely, we who have left know quite about as much of the School as you do—if not more. The latest score against . . . , or what . . . said to ... when he caught him . . . , all fly round amongst us like magic the very next day. But this is beside the point. Doubtless you wish to hear our doings, not your own. Well, it has been a very ordinary, pleasant, term; we have all been working hard at various studies and athletics, and the time has passed all too quickly. There was November 5th, but none of us got arrested, and it wasn't nearly as exciting as the Daily Mail would have us believe. We enjoyed Mr. Franklin's all-too-brief visit, and hope we didn't work him too hard. It is always pleasant to keep in touch with the School and Sixth : after all we aren't so far away, either in space or time, that we can't easily imagine ourselves at School again. (This platitude is quite inadequate, but doubtless you see our meaning.)

C. J. O. BLACKALL (Merton). The money he spends on his gramophone breaks all records. But he has become earnest and reads Theology—in Greek too! C. I. RECORD (Magdalen). Is to be congratulated on his Soccer trial. Prominent also at the billiard table. J. C. PALMER (Jesus). Has not yet succeeded in blowing up the Science Lab. Plays Rugger and also runs very fast on the track. D. J. COCKLE (St. Edmund Hall). Gave some of us precarious motor-outings into the country. Lives a respectable life. L. K. S. FORD (St. John's). Studies Theology hard enough to make other things uninteresting by comparison. But the " Super " is just opposite St. John's. E. W. PARSONS (Brasenose). Keeps steam up all day for coxing, careering about on a bike, and working. Found the water cold on the first outing of his Togger. J. H. C. PHELIPS (Hertford). Takes life very energetically. Plays Rugger, runs, and appears to work, which is a bad sign. There, now you can imagine the sort of colony we might be if all this nonsense were true. Wishing the School every success, Yours sincerely, OXON.'

THE VIGORNIAN.

6Q4

Vaktt.

Classical VI. Parsons, E. W. (1925-29). Hostel. School Monitor. Editor of the Vigornian. Librarian. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert " A " 1928. Phelips, J. H. C. (1920-29). School House. School Monitor. Shooting VIII. Captain of Shooting 1929. Editor of the Vigornian. Sergt. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1928. Modern VI. Assheton, C. F. A. (1923-29). Castle House. 2nd XV Football 1927-8. ist IV Rowing 1928-9. Secretary of Rowing 1929. ist IV Fives 1927-9. Captain of Fives 1928. Shooting VIII. C.S.M. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1928. Blandford, H. F. (1925-29). School House. 2nd XI Cricket 1929. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1929. Davies, O. R. (1925-29). School House. 2nd XV Football 1927, ist XV 1928. Librarian. Sergt. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1928. Haywood, M. J. (1925-29). Day Boy. Cadet O.T.C. Hopkin, D. A. B. (1922-29). Castle House. Captain of School 1928-9. 2nd XV Football 1924. ist XV 1925-9. Captain of Football 1928. 2nd IV Rowing 1926. ist IV 1927-9. Captain of Boats 1927-9. Editor of the Vigornian. Librarian. Under-Officer O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1927. Maund, H. G. A. (1921-29). Day Boy. Cadet O.T.C. Molony, D. W. A. (1922-29). School House. 2nd XV Football 1927, ist XV 1928. 2nd IV Rowing 1928, ist IV 1929. ist IV Fives 1928. Shooting VIII. Sergt. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1928. Upper V. Beard, J. H. L. (1927-29). Day Boy. 2nd XI Cricket 1928. ist XI 1929. Shooting VIII. Cadet O.T.C. Balch, M. J. (1925-9). Castle House. School Monitor. 2nd XI Cricket 1926-7, ist XI 1928-9. Captain 1929. 2nd XV Football 1928. ist IV Fives 1929. CpJ. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1928. Bang, E. C. A. (1926-29). Castle House. Cadet O.T.C. Harrison, G. H. (1925-29). Castle House. 2nd XV Football 1928. Corpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1928. Medawar, P. C. (1926-29). Hostel. Readman, W. L. (1927-29). Hostel. 2nd XI Cricket 1929. Cadet O.T.C. » Whitehouse, F. W. I. (1925-29). Day Boy. Lower V. Bailey, F. E. G. (1922-29). Day Boy. Green, J. F. (1924-29). Natland. Hughes, F. A. (1924-29). Day Boy. 2nd XI Cricket 1929. Remove. Muir, A. T. M. (1927-29). School House. Cadet O.T.C. Partridge, C. J. R. (1926-29). Castle House. 2nd XI Cricket 1927, ist XI 1928-9. Secretary of Cricket 1929. Cadet O.T.C.

Upper IV. Spence, H. H. (1927-29). Day Boy. Cadet O.T.C. Middle IV. Badams, M. (1926-29). Day Boy. Hodges, E. J. T. (1926-29). Day Boy. Lumley, E. J. O'D. (1926-29). Day Boy. Lower IV. Tate, J. (1927-29). Hostel. Cadet O.T.C. Third. Phillips, J. D. (1925-29). Natland. 2nd XV Football 1928. Cdt. O.T.C. Second Walker, D. D. C. M. (1928-29). Day Boy.

saioerc. Remove. Hall iii, A. O. School House. Upper IV. Evans ii, C. P. P. Day Boys. Gawn ii, B. J. Castle House. Moore i, R. D. Day Boys. Readman, H. Hostel. Roberts, C. E. Day Boys. Rose D. Castle House. Middle IV. Clarke ii, N. J. School House. Evarard, J. H. O. Hostel. Maitland, R. J. School House. Lower IV. Anthony i, A. C. Day Boys. Bagenal, J. S. School House. Beard, W. K. Day Boys. Bellamy, V. Castle House. Caldicott, A. W. Day Boys. Deakin, W. R. Day Boys. Gilson, E. L. R. Castle House. Harrison, J. M. Castle House. Sleath, L. E. Day Boys. Steward ii, E. J. School House. Tirbutt, E. B. Natland. Third Form. Allen, A. B. School House. Anthony ii, G. C. Day Boys. Edwards ii, G. W. Natland. Langley, C. W. P. Hostel. Moor ii, B. C. School House. Second Form. Curtis, E. C. Day Boys. Hemmings, D. A. Day Boys. Jackson iii, E. B. Day Boys. Jones, G. T. Day Boys. Pettigrew, A. W. R. Day Boys. Smith iv, J. Day Boys. Smith, v, R. Day Boys. Yarnold ii, A. S. Day Boys.

THE VIGORNIAN.

Contemporaries. We acknowledge the following contemporaries, with apologies for any accidental omissions:—The Felstedian (2), The Bromsgrovian, The Aluredian, The Wyggestonian, The Monktonian, The Herefordian, The Rendcomb College Magazine, The Oceanian, The Journal of the R.A.F. College, Cranwell, The Cantuarian, The Petriburgian, The Wulfrunian, The St. Edward's School Chronicle, The King Edward's School Chronicle, The Old Veseyan News, The Decanian, The Journal of the Honourable Artillery Company (2), The Tonbridgian (2).

CAN ANYONE SUPPLY COPIES OF THE " VIOOBNIAN " for the following dates :— 1912. 1917. 1917. 1918. 1921.

March (or April). March (or April). November (or December). June (or July). June (or July).

These numbers are WANTED AT ONCE for binding purposes.

695

CRICKET. Rent for Field Rate „ and Pavilion years) Hunt ............... Lillywhite Income Tax Mann's Ward's ............ Hobday ............ Spicer (Painting Pavilion) Knowles (Repairs to Harness, etc.) ... Aston (Gate) Stevens (Turf, etc.) Lime, etc. Sundries EXTRA EXPENDITURE. Wages Printing Hire of Chairs (O.V. Day) Cheque Book Bath Attendant Sundries

-•

1 8 0 0 41 9 9 90 17 ii 80 8 3 i 19 o IS '3 2 20 8 o 3 I0 3 16 12 6 8 10 o 4 0 0

9 o 19 o 3 0 9

••

......

79 4 6 6 19 9 2 IO

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

i 15 o

Balance

Please send them to THE SECRETARY, 9, COLLEGE GREEN, WORCESTER.

... ... ...

S°S 15 10 99 12 o £605 7 10

CR.

U1.C.K.S. Games fund. YEAR ENDING DECEMBER, 1929.

DR.

£ ROWING. Rent for Land on which Boat House stands... Rates ,, ,, ,, (15 years) Thornborrow (Repairs to Boats, etc.) ... Elt Mario w (Entrance Fee) ... ... ... Ayling (Oars) Insurance on Boat House ... ... ... Sundries ... ... ... ... ...

s. d.

5 0 0 20 14 11 n 15 o 36 7 6 330 9 8 6 5 1 0 5 9 '

Games Subscriptions From School Shop Rent of Field, Sports Fees, etc. ... Balance at Bank ... ... ...

...

£ s. d. 424 7 10

... ...

70 o o iS 13 9 92 6 3

;£6°S 7 10

N.B.—

(Signed) F. B. THOMAS, C. CREIGHTON. £ s. d.

Of above Balance to Sinking Fund for Rowing 25 o o ,, ,, towards New Mower ... 50 o o Net Balance in Current Account 24 12 o