The Vigornian December 1935

Che Uigornian.

THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S

SCHOOL

CHRONICLE.

TA MEN AIAAKTA MANSANn, TA A'EYPETA ZHTfl, TA A'EYKTA IIAPA OEON HITH2AMHN

No. 143. VOL. XL

DECEMBER, 1935.

Contents.

€dltortal. Page

Editorial Memorial Fund Appeal School Calendar School Officers School Notes K.S. Exam. Result House Notes ... O.V. Notes, Births, Marriages, and Deaths Rugger Notes Cricket House Matches O.T.C. Notes Band Notes Shooting Notes Scout Notes Library Film Society Lectures ... ... ... ... ... ... Oxford and Cambridge Letters ... ... " 'Tis Fifty Years Since " Articles, Poems, etc Salvete Valete Correspondence Contemporaries ... ... ... ... ... Games Fund Account ... ... ... ...

PRICE is-

... ...

... ...

1031 1032 1032 1033 1033 1034 1034 1035 1037 1041 1042 1044 1044 1044 1045 1045 1045 1046 1047 1048 1054 1055 1055 1055 1056

This year of grace nineteen hundred and thirty-five has not found us editors idle. Spurred on by the feeling that this year was worthy of memory in the history of our country, as the twenty-fifth of our Sovereign's reign, we determined to make it memorable also in the annals of the School. Last July placards and posters were shrieking : Bigger and Better Vigornians. Look Out for this Term's Bumper Issue ! " The great day of publication arrived. Knots of anxious scholars gather in the quadrangle :• the cry goes round the common-rooms: "It's double the size: (no alteration in price)." Stand to attention, you editors of the past! Bow your heads, you inky scribes—you whose pages never reached double figures! The Vigornian has a new lease of life, rescued from the miry pit in which you have besmirched her fair name. And now, the arraignment of the past complete, we stand triumphant in hope for the future. Herewith a fatter Vigornian still. It is with much regret that we have to announce that nothing has happened this term. Having triumphantly announced this, we of course proceed to tell you what has happened. Probably the most noticeable change this term has been in the revival of house activities. This has been suitably followed by the introduction of House Notes in this issue. We hope that these innovations will not lead to any unpleasant inter-house rivalry, but will just serve to foster that excellent spirit of competition which keeps alive so much that otherwise might die an early death. Societies gradually grow around us. Do we recall a letter

1032

THE VIGORNIAN.

published in our columns some few years ago, deploring the attempt to " force new societies on us," and expressed in somewhat dubious blank verse? That worthy correspondent would find now various House Societies, a Film Society, and a Dramatic Society. But, thank heaven, they are pleasant, informal societies, freed from the fetters of presidents and minute-books, knowing their business and getting it done, without further fuss. We are glad to see that the success of " St. Joan " has spurred Mr. Macdonald on to make the Easter Term play an annual feature. The Dramatic Society's great trouble at present, it appears, is that Becket may get a scholarship and so cause an upheaval among the cast by an untimely departure. The play, incidentally, is " Murder in the Cathedral," by T. S. Eliot (not, as you might think, a " Crime Club " publication). It deals with the Martyr of Canterbury and the story of his martyrdom, and was first performed at the Canterbury Festival this year.

selves with this memorial to one to whom the School owes so much. Subscriptions may be sent to me or to the Hon. Treasurer, Mr. G. W. Nicholls, Lloyds Bank (Capital and Counties Branch), Worcester. C. CREIGHTON. O.V. and King's School Subscribers up to December, 1935. T. Bates A. Macdonald E. E. Bird E. R. Newcombe A. P. Bolland T. E. Rammell J. B. Cavenagh J. Stallard Mrs. Chappel Mrs. Tupper C. T. Dimont A. Webb A. R. Harrison F. M. Webb The Headmaster F. W. Webb J. E. B. Littlebury

We are also glad to see the Film Society flourishing once more, though we deprecate the suggestion (surely a member of the Modern Sixth was responsible) that the Greek motto at the head of this chronicle should be translated: " This is the Vigornia News, presenting the School to the School." Finally, we would like especially to congratulate Day Boys on the noble response to the appeal for support of the O.T.C. We are confident that a new era is beginning with regard to this difficult question, and that the future will see many Day Boys following the example of those who have not allowed seniority in the School to stand in the way of their starting in at the bottom as recruits. Good luck to them, and to all of you : a merry Christmas and a happy New Year is the conventional greeting at this time. That then is our wish to you—conventional but sincere.

Dean Woore €de memorial fund. A fund has been opened by a Committee composed of the Lord Lieutenant, the Bishop, the Dean, and others, to commemorate the life and work of the late Dean, Dr. W. Moore Ede, by a memorial tablet in the Cathedral and a Scholarship tenable at the King's School by a boy from the Choir School. At least £1,000 will be needed if these two objects are to be made possible and about .£800 has been subscribed since the fund opened in September. I have undertaken to co-operate with the Committee by circulating the appeal among O.V., and leaflets on the subject are being sent to all O.V. with this copy of The Vigornian. A good start has been given to my appeal by the following and others connected with the School, whose subscriptions amount to a sum of £134 123. od., but I am sure there must be many others who would wish to associate them-

December, 1935.

School calendar. Fri., Sat., Sat.,

Sept. 20.—Boarders Return. ,, 21.—Term begins. Oct. 12.—Lecture : " Aviation and the Empire," by Colonel R. H. McVittie. ,, 24.—Field Day. Thurs., Sat., ,, 26.—Concert in College Hall by Leonard Isaacs and Maurice Hardy. Sat., Nov. 2.—Half Term. Mon., Sat.,

,, ,,

4.—Holiday for Royal Wedding. 9.—Lecture : "On the Trail of the Cowboy," by Mr. Escott North. Tues, & Wed., Nov. 19 & 20.—K.S. Examination. Sat., Nov. 23.—Lecture : " The Cathedral and College Green since the Reformation," by the Headmaster. Mon., Dec. 2.—Announcement of K.S. Exam. Result by the Dean. Tues., ,, 3.—School Certificate Examination begins. Thurs., ,, 5.—School Service in the Cathedral—the Headmaster. Sat., „ 7.—Sound Film in College Hall presented by the Headmaster. Thurs., ,, 12.—School Service in the Cathedral—the Headmaster. Sat., „ 14.—Final of House Matches. Thurs., Fri.,

„ 19.—School Concert. End of term. ,, 20.—Exeunt Omnes.

THE VIGORNIAN.

December, 1935.

Scfcool Officers. Captain of the School - E. C. Luscombe. Captain of Rugger - E. C. Luscombe. - J. F. Lavender. Secretary of Rugger Captain of Shooting - E. C. Luscombe. Secretary of Shooting - K. B. Dyer. Captain of Gym - E. C. Luscombe. School Monitors—E. C. Luscombe, R. I. G. Brooks, J. F. Lavender, A. S. Yarnold. Captains of Houses :— School House - J. F. Lavender. R. I. G. Brooks. Castle House Hostel - E. C. Luscombe. Day Boys A. S. Yarnold. Editors of The Vigornian—E. C. Luscombe, R. I. G. Brooks, R. C. Hicks. Librarians—B. Bagenal, H. G. Williams, B. S. Eckersley, R. Anstey.

School Rotes. The Editors, on behalf of the School, would like to congratulate Mr. Burnett and Mr. Pedder on their marriages, and we all wish them every happiness in the future. Mr. Pedder has taken a house in London Road, and judging from the glowing accounts that have reached us from various members of Hostel, Mrs. Burnett has already firmly established herself in the life of Hostel. The History of the King's School, on which Mr. Macdonald has been working for the last three years, is nearly completed, and Messrs. Ernest Benn, Ltd., hope to publish it in the spring of next year. Mr. Macdonald has received valuable letters from O.V. in answer to his appeal for reminiscences and information, but there is still time for intending correspondents to add more, and he will welcome any information that anyone who remembers the School during the last century can contribute. Letters may be addressed to the School. Circulars will be sent to all O.V. whose addresses are known, when the book is ready. *

* *

We welcome to the staff this term Mr. C. M. Meade-King and Mr. B. B. Ward. • » * On November 4th we enjoyed the whole holiday granted by H.M. the King in honour of the Duke of Gloucester's wedding. As the result of a public petition, the Headmaster kindly allowed this to be added to the usual half-term weekend, enabling parents to enjoy the pleasure (?) of their offspring's company for an extra day. Owing to the lucky coincidence of the opening of the new Gaumont Cinema, a welcome source of entertainment was provided for the less fortunate few who remained.

1033

The first XV visited Oxford on November yth to see the match between the New Zealanders and the University side. Though, as far as the spectators were concerned, the conditions were not ideal (to say the least of it), the opportunity of seeing a practical demonstration of the game by firstclass players is undoubtably a very valuable asset to a team, and we very much hope that similar opportunities may occur in the future. * * * Once more we may say with the Psalmist: " The floods are risen, O Lord." Sabrina fair deposited water, which of course meant mud, on the towpath and playing-fields in the last fortnight of November. Results: rugger on various strange Worcester grounds, a welcome revival of more specialised P.T. in the gym, and—a paper-chase ! *

* *

*

» *

P.T. in break has now become a permanent fixture in the School curriculum. We hope that this excellent institution may be continued with unabated zest in years to come. » » * We wish to announce that the Headmaster has finally exploded the absurd superstition persisting in connexion with the Teme and the floods on our fields. We recommend those still obstinate in this belief to apply to him personally. * * * The King's Scholarship examination was held on November igth and 2oth. We congratulate R. M. Dobson on obtaining the scholarship—for there was only one ! We welcome to College Green this term two members of the species " bloodhound "—though only one openly rejoices in this name ! Great may they grow! * « • Edgar Tower is in the wars again. First a complete overhaul, then boilers, and now chimneys. We extend our sympathy to Miss Campbell and the Lower School—though for all we know they may enjoy it! * * * We much regret the cancellation of the O.V. match owing to the impossibility this year of getting together an O.V. team. » * » Field Day took place on October 24th. In connexion with this a tour of the Worcestershire Regiment Depdt at Norton was arranged for all taking part. A much appreciated feature was the gas-chamber! ! *

* *

Talking of gas, on Monday, November i8th, the senior members of the O.T.C. enjoyed a lecture by Captain Gurney on the use of gas in modern warfare. Though Captain Gurney informed us that he was compressing a fiveweeks' course into threequarters of an hour, we are sure that those who attended now possess thoroughly sound information on at least one aspect of modern warfare. But enough of this gas!

THE VIGORNIAN.

1034

We are very pleased to hear that Hockey is to start in earnest next term. It is rumoured that five or six matches have been arranged already. » * # G. N. Jackson, O.V., the noted oarsman, has written a book on Rowing and has kindly presented a copy to the Reading Room Library. * * * We congratulate the following on obtaining Higher Certificates last July :— Brooks Thomas Dyer Hicks Warren Also those who obtained School Certificates :— R. T. L. Allen R. Anstey B. Bagenal Baxter D. E. Briggs H. J. Checketts Gaylor Hartwright Hinds Hoggard C. M. Lavender Miles Reynolds H. N. Rice-Jones Roberts Sheriff Spencer Sankey Stevens Steward F. H. Walker Walliker Whitehead We are pleased to be able to announce that this constitutes a record achievement for the School since the introduction of the Certificate Examinations. *

» *

The flag has been flown on the following occasions :— Sept. 29.—St. Michael and All Angels. Oct. 21.—Battle of Trafalgar, Nov. i.—All Saints Day. 6.—Royal Wedding, n.—Armistice Day. 30.—St. Andrew's Day.

Kind's ScDolarsblps. As a result of the examination held on November 19th and 2oth, the following awards have been made:— To a King's Scholarship :— R. M. Dobson, King's School, Worcester. To an entrance House Scholarship :— A. T. G. Field (Mr. E. L. Griffiths), Cathedral School, Salisbury.

Rouse notes. SCHOOL HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : J. F. Lavender, R. C. Hicks, K. B. Dyer, A. D. Bolland, B. Bagenal. The most important event from a House point of view this term is the advent of Mr. Meade-King as our -new House tutor, and we take this opportunity of extending a hearty welcome to him. He has, perhaps, chiefly shown his

December, 1935.

great interest in the affairs of the House by inaugurating a House Debating Society and a House Dramatic Society, although his influence has been most marked in all directions. So far only two Debates have been held, but we hope to have time for two more before the end of the term. The first of these took place on Tuesday, November igth. The motion before the House was that: " In the opinion of this house, the tendency to leave school at an early age is to be deplored." The motion was proposed by Mr. Bolland, seconded by Mr. Walker, and opposed by Mr. Gade, seconded by Mr. Bush. Messrs. Hicks, Dyer, and Steward spoke for the motion, and Messrs. Sheriff and Sutton against. The motion was lost by 5 votes to 21. The second debate took place on Wednesday, December 3rd. This time the motion was that: " In the opinion of this house the public go to the cinema to see beauty and not acting." The motion was proposed by Mr. Miles, seconded by Mr. Sankey ; and opposed by Mr. Hardman, seconded by Mr. White. Messrs. Raban, Sutton, Mole, Steward, Sheriff, and Hicks spoke against, and Messrs. Davies and Fox for the motion, which was lost by 3 votes to 20. The Dramatic Society has been rehearsing regularly and intends to present three sketches at the end of the term : " The Man in the Bowler Hat," by A. A. Milne. " The 'Ole in the Road," by " Seamark." " The Football Club Supper." A vocal quartet will also perform during the intervals. The House has been exceptionally well represented in both rugger teams this term, with eight members of the ist XV and seven of the 2nd XV. This wealth of talent has enabled us to get through the first round of the House Matches fairly successfully, and we have high hopes of winning the Cup. The only cloud on the horizon, but unfortunately a very considerable one, is the abnormal number of people who are leaving in the next two terms. They are all apparently impervious to persuasion, and the only thing we can do is to hope for a steady influx of large and intelligent new boys, which seems rather too much to expect. However, things may not be as bad as they appear at first sight. In conclusion, we should like to wish the members of the House who are leaving the House this term every success in their future vocations, and a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all members of the House and the School. * * * CASTLE HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : R. I. G. Brooks, B. S. Eckersley, H. G. Williams. The House has had, on the whole, a very successful term —avoiding all forms of plague and pestilence—although we have unfortunately not succeeded in gaining the House Rugger Cup. At the beginning of the term it looked as if we might have quite a formidable team, but when the time came we found that we were without Brooks, who was

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

taking a scholarship examination at Cambridge, and Allen, who has been unable to come back this term owing to an unfortunate illness from which, we hear, he has still not fully recovered. The House team, however, captained by S. N. Hackwood, played quite a keen game under the circumstances, although from the very start it was clear that they could do little more than try to give the Hostel as good a run for their money as possible. The prospect for the Belows Matches, however, is rather brighter. There is a lot of promising material in the younger section of the House and we hope to put it to use next term. At Tweseldown the two Castle House sections succeeded in tying for the first place in the Section Competition, and we therefore obtain the shield for the second time in succession. This, we hope, will form a nucleus for the other cups which we shall try to acquire in the course of the School Year. The numbers in the House have decreased by one, but as only Williams, whom we wish all possible success in his future career, is definitely leaving at the end of the term, we hope to be able to report a rise in January. If Brooks succeeds in obtaining his scholarship, he too will leave this term. However, the House has had to face many such crises and doubtless this will not be the last! * » * HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : E. C. Luscombe, L. Rathbone. We most cordially welcome Mrs. Burnett amongst us this term, together with Miss Whitehouse, our new Matron. Mrs. Metge, her predecessor, has now gone to the Imperial Service College, Windsor. Mr. and Mrs. Burnett have been most considerate in entertaining every member of the House to tea or dinner during the term. Although generally a most delicate topic (not in Hostel), we feel we ought to congratulate Mrs. Burnett, whilst assuming the r61e of House Master's wife with the greatest ease, on the production of the most novel and appetising American dishes. On our return to School this term, we found all the walls newly distempered, and rumour has it that it is the first time since Hostel became a boarding-house. At present the house is stocked with wirelesses, there being no less than three in the monitors' study and two in the classroom. There are also gramophones in each of the other studies. An American ping-pong tournament was held early in the term. Altogether there were 17 entrants, including Mr. and Mrs. Burnett and Matron. The winner was Luscombe, who defeated all his opponents. We were very struck by the sporting manner in which Mrs. Burnett and Matron played their games. On November 3oth a Mock Trial was held in the classroom, Luscombe acting as Judge. The prisoner (Mansell) was charged with murder. F. Lawrey attempted to prosecute and Gaylor was deputed to defend the prisoner; but as

1035

the case was not sufficiently well arranged beforehand, their cases did not tally. After a very interesting and amusing trial, the Jury returned a verdict of " Not Guilty." This was a first attempt and we hope to stage an even better one in the future. The Roll of Honour is to be removed from the classroom to a more appropriate position, namely, that position in the dining-room above the mantelpiece now occupied by a most antiquated clock. The House has now four cups—the Individual CrossCountry Cup, the P.T. Cup, the House Shooting Cup, and the Senior Victor Ludorum. Hostel provides three members of the ist XV and four of the 2nd XV, and there are three of the House in the prospective Shooting VIII, and five First Class shots. At the time of going to print we have just beaten Castle House in the semi-final of the House Matches 17—o, thus avenging our defeat of last year. Finally, we should like to wish " all who here shall meet no more " the very best of luck in the future and those returning continued successes in years to come. * * * DAY BOYS. HOUSE MONITORS : A. S. Yarnold, E. C. Gregory, R. Anstey. The House is rather at a disadvantage this term in that the stature of its members is surprisingly small, but many of the more youthful Day Boys are extremely promising, and there should be no lack of material, especially in Junior games. We therefore hope to avenge last year's defeat in the " Belows " final, and to do well in the Cross-Country Run and in the Sports, thus atoning for our poor representation in the Senior Rugger. Perhaps the thing of which we are most proud is the revival of the O.T.C. spirit in the House. About 12 Day Boys joined this term, and it is hoped that, with next term's recruits, a new platoon may be formed. The Scouts, too, are well represented in the House, and the important part they play can be deduced from the Scout Notes. But, unfortunately, the House is taking less and less interest in games on whole school days, and only 25 boys play games at all times. We therefore urge Day Boys—at any rate those who live in Worcester—to make a special effort next term to take part in all the activities of the House and the School.

O.V. news. H. S. Clarke played scrum-half with considerable success for Kent against Surrey in November. A. J. Day is now Headmaster of Wistaria House Preparatory School, Shipston-on-Stour, Warwick. He is also Organist and Choirmaster of the Parish Church.

THE VIGORNIAN.

1036

C. R. Donald has joined the Palestine Police Force and sailed for Palestine in September. *

* *

J. R. A. Embling gained a Third Class in Modern Languages at Oxford University and has now obtained a permanent commission in the R.A.F. He went to Cranwell in October. * # » A. L. Flay has been granted a commission in the Supplementary Reserve of Officers. The Rev. L. S. K. Ford and the Rev. D. Cockle left England this Autumn for Missionary work. Ford is working with the S.P.G. in China, and Cockle, who until recently was Curate of Netherton, is joining the Brotherhood of the Epiphany at Calcutta. * * * E. L. R. Gilson sailed early in October for Suez, to take up a position in a shipping firm. C. G. Hartwright has a post at the Victoria Institute and Public Library, Worcester. D. A. B. Hopkin, who has now left St. Mary's Hospital, has been playing regularly for Richmond this season. He has now been appointed a Probationary Medical Officer in the Colonial Medical Service in Malaya, and sails to Singapore at the end of April. *

* *

F. C. Lewis is taking the A.K.C. Course at King's College, London. * » *

December, 1935.

restoration, and has shown over it almost every member of the Royal Family, including the Queen, who takes particular interest in it. During the War, when it was used as a hospital for wounded Indian soldiers, he wrote a guide book for them in Urdu and Gurmulshi. He is to continue to live at Preston Manor, and to be honorary curator of the Museum which is housed there. Any O.V. who would like reproductions of the following drawings of the School can obtain them from Mr. F. B. Thomas, the School shop. The set comprises :— Edgar Tower (viewed from the entrance to the Cloisters). College Green (viewed from the Choir School). College Green (viewed from College Hall steps). School House (viewed from the Garden). College Hall (Interior). The School Garden and Fountain. Price 6/9 per set of six; or they may be obtained separately 1/3 each. » * * ENGAGEMENTS. The engagement is announced between Henry Fielding, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. W. F. H. Blandford, of 12, Lee Road, Blackheath, S.E.3, and Jane de Burgh, younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. V. de B. Daly, of Hardy Road, Blackheath, S.E.3. The engagement is announced between Robert Edward Thomas, only son of Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Thomas, of Lloyds Bank, Newport, Mon., and Florence Beatrice (Peggy) Glover, of 44, Pali Hill, Bombay, second daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Glover, of Fitzjohn's Avenue, N.W.3. MARRIAGES.

J. L. Longland, who was Transport Officer on the last Everest Expedition, was the second-in-command of a team of six led by Mr. Wager, last July and August, on a sledging journey to explore the Watkins Range in Greenland. He contributed the first of three articles in The Times by different members of the expedition. They were successful in reaching the top of the Range—over 12,000 feet—and in collecting botanical and other specimens, and in making valuable observations. * * *

WILDING—NICHOL.—At Angel Street Congregational Church, Worcester, the Rev. John Wilding, Minister of the Congregational Church, Newbury, Bucks, second son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilding, 38, Lavender Road, Barbourne, Worcester, and Miss Jean Niihol, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. Nichol, 20, Townsend Street, Barbourne, Worcester.

The Times devoted a leading article recently to the work of H. D. Roberts (O.V. 1881-2), who has just retired after thirty years as Director of the Royal Pavilion, Brighton, and Curator of the Corporation Art Galleries, Museums and Libraries, and has been presented with a cheque and silver tea service in recognition of his services. The Pavilion— tastes differ as to its architectural merits, and the witty Sydney Smith said it looked as though St. Paul's had come down to the sea and puppied—was built for George IV when Prince of Wales, and was sold to the town by Queen Victoria. Mr. Roberts took an important share in its recent

* * *

HOPKIN—FOLEY.—At the Rosary Church, Marylebone, N.W.I, on December 7th, quietly, Denis Arthur, third son of Mr. and the late Mrs. E. S. Buxton Hopkin, of Budby Castle, Ollerton, Newark, to Angela Mary, second daughter of Mrs. and the late Mr. T. W. Foley, of Summer Cove, Kinsale, Co. Cork.

DEATH. DAY.—On Friday, March 22, 1935, suddenly, at The Cottage, Crompton, George Harold Day, aged 59 years.

THE VIGORNIAN.

December, 1935.

1037

Rote$. FIXTURES AND RESULTS. 1ST XV

Date. Opponents. Oct. 2.—Wycliffe College " A " ,, 12.—Crypt School, Gloucester ... „ 19.—Bloxham School ,, 23.—Monmouth School „ 26.—Wolverley 31.—Cheltenham College 2nd XV Nov. 6.—Hereford School 9.—Wolverley 13,—Warwick School j6.—Bloxham School 27.—Worcester Wednesday Dec. 7.—O.V. XV

Ground. Home Home Home Away Home Away Away Away Away Away Away Home

Result. Lost Lost Lost Lost Won Lost

Ground. Home Home Away Away Home Home

Result. Lost Lost Lost Lost Lost Lost

Lost Lost Lost Lost

For. 3 10

9 3 7 o Cancelled. 7 o ...

O

o Cancelled.

Against. .. 28 20 .. 17 •• 43 S

••

31

.. .. .. ••

14 26 28 39

2ND XV.

Date, Opponents. Oct. 23.—Monmouth School Nov. 13.—Warwick School „ 16.—Bloxham School „ 20.—Technical College, Cheltenham ,, 27.—King Charles, Kidderminster „ 23.—Hereford School

1ST XV.

It is possible that too much was expected of the ist XV this year, for they were young and inexperienced, with only three old colours. More than one of our defeats may be put down to lack of speed, as it is remarkably difficult 10 produce one's best form when consistently outpaced. This was specially noticeable in the games with Worcester Wednesday and Monmouth. But the most disquieting cause of our long list of defeats was a strange lack of spirit both in attack and in defence. Our opponents only had to score first and our XV fell into a disastrous lethargy, which made defeat inevitable. One felt sometimes that the match was lost before it had begun. This failing was apparent in every branch of play. Early on in the season, the centres apparently gave up all hope of making openings, while the wings obstinately refused to go hard for the line at any time. They should realise that it is simply a confession of weakness for a wing in attack to kick consistently to touch before reaching his opposite number. The halves were adequate and worked hard, but the slowness of their passing was often a serious handicap to their three-quarters. The forwards were usually outweighted, and the extra effort necessary in the tight scrums accounts to some extent for their lack of fire in the open. But they failed to realise the necessity of packing in together in the loose scrums, and of every man making a real effort to gain command of the ball; above all this involves keeping one's eye on the ball, a principle as sound in rugger as in cricket or golf. However, it would be more charitable and more useful to offer advice to next year's XV in the light of last year's

For. o o o 3 3 3

Against. .. 3» 3

..

8 14

•...

"3 28

experience, rather than to bewail the failures of the past. First, our prospective players for next year must realize that, however depressing their previous efforts efforts may have been, the uncertainties of rugger offer countless opportunities for brilliant recoveries. The opportunity may come in the very next game, however burly and awe-inspiring their opponents may be. Secondly, they must understand that they must use their brains throughout every game if they have any ambition to become good players. Only the intelligent player with considerable knowledge of the technique of the game can hope to experience the exhilaration of rugger. Thirdly, they must be prepared to practise and practise until they are perfectly proficient in the most elementary stages of the game, for only then can scientific methods be employed with advantage. Fourthly, they must remember that team-work is of vital importance, and that it never pays to grumble about anyone during a game. If next year's XV will act upon these principles, then they should have justifiable ground for self-satisfaction.

IST XV CHARACTERS. S. N. HACKWOOD. At first he found his new position rather bewildering but he has now become quite a sound full-back. His positioning and kicking have much improved, and it is only his tackling that remains as a weak point. G. N. T, BAXTER. It is a pity that he does not make better use of his speed, as he has more scoring power than he perhaps realises.

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1038

K. B. DYER. A sound but straightforward centre* His; defence was consistently good, and he accepted any chances that were offered to him, but he must try to make his own openings more often. C. G. BUSH. Quite a sound centre but rather disappointing in that he failed to improve during the season, principally owing to complete lack of confidence in himself. However he was responsible for our solitary victory, by a very clever drop-goal from an awkward position. F. H. WALKER. He would have distinct possibilities if he would learn to go for the corner-flag in attack. As it was, he hardly gave himself a fair chance. D. J. WALLIKER. A clever player, though he often forgets the primary duties of a stand-off to get his three-quarters moving. He must learn to beat his man at full speed, and to time his passes. But he uses his head, and should be able to cure his failings. R. F. GADB. A sturdy scrum-half, who did more than his share of hard work. If he could only quicken up his service from the scrum he would be really promising. E. C. LUSCOUBE. The Captain of the side. Playing this year as a forward, he set a magnificent example, which was only too seldom followed. At times it almost seemed if he was playing the other side by himself. J. F. LAVENDER. A very promising forward, who goes his hardest and has a sound knowledge of the game. He will be a tower of strength next year. R. I. G. BROOKS. A good forward, who shoves hard in the scrum. If he can acquire rather more dash, he will be distinctly useful. L. RATHBONE. Quite a good hooker, and always well up with the ball. But he must learn more about the technique of the game, and try to master the art of close dribbling. W. N. BRYER. A young wing-forward of real promise. When he increases in weight and speed he will be very useful. At present he is not always quite sure where to position himself, but this will come with experience. A. D. HOLLAND. A sound forward, but without much natural ability for the game. He is an improving player. J. M. PAUL. Rather a colourless forward, who often forgets to use his head, specially in the loose scrums. He would be far more useful if he could infuse more energy into his play. E. W. SANKEY. Rather an inconsistent wing-forward. He must learn to go his hardest throughout every game. He is clever with his feet, and should demonstrate this more often by keeping closer to the ball. *

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3ND XV.

Although the 2nd XV lost every game, they gave us some of the most exciting matches of the term, and Monmouth was the only side to beat them really decisively. They were distinctly unlucky not to score against Warwick, but had only their weak tackling to blame for the

December, 1935.

only try scored against them. With more enterprise and willingness they might have won at least two matches. The forwards were quite good in the loose and " lineout," but their heeling was very slow, with the result that their backs found themselves too closely marked for their very stereotyped movements to come to anything. The chief reasons for our defeats were slowness in front, lack of penetration behind, and weak tackling all round. They are a young side, however, and there is good material for future XVs. The following were awarded their 2nd XV Colours :— D. Sheriff, F. W. Lawrey, B. Bagenal, F. E. Mole, R. C. Hicks, A. Fairgrieve, D. B. Steward, C. M. Lavender, A. S. Yarnold, M. Orchard, D. W. Gaylor, H. Mansell, S. O. A. M. Lock, R. Anstey, E. W. Wootten. * * *

JUNIOR RUGGER. Junior rugger has progressed with remarkable keenness, as it has been possible to use the field during the greater part of the term. The spirit and enthusiasm of the 3rd Game, under the management of Mr. Bentley and Mr. Strong, has been, very evident. Both three-quarters and forwards seem to have grasped the principles of the game pretty thoroughly and we hope that next term's " Colts " XV will have as good a record as any of its predecessors. The 2nd Game seems to have effectively rid itself of the name of " Old Crocks' " game. Some good work has been put in under the management of Mr. Franklin and Mr. Pedder. The two junior games have also grasped the elementary principles, and this due to Mr. Ward, who has consistently refereed these games at every opportunity.

We all greatly appreciate the kindness of the Worcester R.F.C. lending us their ground at Perdiswell and at the same time our thanks are due to A. D. Arbuckle, O.V., for refereeing the final of the House Matches.

We should like to thank the above-named masters most gratefully for the valuable time and trouble they have spent over their respective games, and above all we must thank Mr. Meade-King and Mr. Burnett for the very arduous task they must have had coaching this term's XVs. *

* *

MATCHES. SCHOOL v. WYCLIFFE " A." Played at Worcester on an unpleasantly cold day. Wycliffe kicked off, and for the first ten minutes the School were pressing hard, but Wycliffe soon gained the advantage by scoring near the corner flag. The School seemed to be disconcerted at this, and Wycliffe scored three tries before half-time. The School, however, showed one

THE VIGORNIAN.

December, 1935.

flash of brilliance when a good three-quarter movement took place, and Baxter was brought down practically on the line. After half-time the School held their own well, but a complete breakaway by Wycliffe brought the score up to 18—o. The School once more showed fight and soon a good forward movement by Lavender and Sankey ended in a well deserved try by Luscombe. From this point till the end of the match the School team showed obvious exhaustion, and Wycliffe won a well-fought game by 28—3. Team :—S. N. Hackwood; G. N. T. Baxter, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, F. H. Walker; F. E. B. Mole, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, J. M. Paul, A. D. Bolland, E. W. Sankey, D. W. Gaylor. * * * SCHOOL v. CRYPT, GLOUCESTER. The match with Crypt School, Gloucester, a new fixture, was played at Worcester on a dry ground. For a quarter of an hour both sides were practically level, but Crypt made a breakaway and scored an unconverted try. Soon afterwards the School forwards made a successful rush and after some quick passing Luscombe scored a try which was converted by Bush. Before half-time Crypt scored two more tries, bringing the score up to 9—5. After half-time the School again retaliated, but, although they were pressing hard most of the time, they were unable to cross the line. By intercepting a pass Crypt scored a quick try, and then scored twice more ; but the School showed that they had by no means finished, for Baxter made a magnificent run down the touch line and scored beneath the posts. Bush converted and the score was 30—10.

This was the final try of the match, but the form shown by the School was a great improvement on that of the last match. Team:—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. T. Baxter; F. E. B. Mole, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, J. M. Paul, A. D. Bolland, E. W. Sankey, D. W. Gaylor, W. N. Bryer. » # *

SCHOOL v. BLOXHAM. At Worcester, on a cold and windy day. The School won the toss and played against the wind, holding the visitors well for the first quarter of an hour, but then Bloxham managed to score an unconverted try. The School continued to hold their opponents well, but another breakaway brought the score to 8—o. Soon after this the forwards, who were playing extremely well, brought off a good rush, and after a quick heel Mole managed to score, but the try was unconverted. Before halftime Bloxham scored once more and the score stood at ii—3In the second half the School determined to make the best

1039

of the wind, but it was of no avail; the forwards began to go to pieces, and Bloxham scored again. A penalty was awarded to the School and Bush kicked a goal, bringing the score to 14—6. Bloxham scored once more, but the School showed increased vigour for the remainder of the match, and in the last few minutes Baxter scored. When the whistle went the score stood at 17—9. The forwards showed much more keenness and stamina than in the two previous matches, but although the backs were given plenty of opportunities they did not make use of them. Team :—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. T. Baxter; F. E. B. Mole, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, F. J. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, A. D. Bolland, J. M. Paul, E. W. Sankey, W. N. Bryer.

SCHOOL v. MONMOUTH SCHOOL. Played at Monmouth on a pouring wet day. Soon after the start Monmouth scored their first try and showed that they were obviously a superior team. They scored three more tries before a penalty was awarded against them, and Bush kicked a goal, bringing the score to 18—3. After half-time Monmouth kept up their rate of scoring. However, the School forwards showed considerably more fight and the home team realised their task was becoming arduous. In the last ten minutes of the game the School pack held Monmouth well, and a forward rush was very nearly successful. The final score was 42—3, but the game was not nearly as one-sided as the score suggests, and Monmouth were a far older and more experienced team. Team :—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. Baxter; F. E. Mole, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, A. D. Bolland, W. N. Bryer, A. Fairgrieve, R. Anstey.

SCHOOL v. SEBRIGHT SCHOOL, WOLVERLEY. Played at Worcester. For the first half of the game the School were pressing Wolverley hard, and most of the play took place in the visitors' " 25." Baxter broke away with the ball but failed to score, and play continued without a break. At half-time neither side had scored. Soon after half-time Dyer obtained the ball and scored an unconverted try, after which the School were determined to increase their lead, but although several good attempts were made, they were not successful. Five minutes from the end Wolverley scored and converted a try, which gave them the lead. At this the School showed greatly increased vigour, and a series of spirited efforts on the part of the forwards re-

1040

THE VIGORNIAN.

suited in Bush getting a quick service from Gade, and he kicked a splendid dropped goal. The score of 7—5 in the School's favour does not do real justice to the play. The general standard of rugger in this match showed a decided improvement. Team:—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. Baxter; D. J. Walliker, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, W. N. Bryer, A. D. Bolland, J. M. Paul, R. Anstey.

SCHOOL v. CHELTENHAM COLLEGE ZND XV. Played at Cheltenham in drenching rain. Cheltenham won the toss and the kick was taken by the School, but after three minutes a penalty was awarded to the home team, who succeeded in placing a goal. This scoring within the first few minutes of the game seemed to discourage the School, for in spite of the fact that the forwards, playing magnificently, were continually in the opposing " 25," Cheltenham continued to score. By half-time the rain was not quite so heavy, but the School were nevertheless still unable to hold the home team, who scored again soon after the beginning of the second half. They continued to score chiefly through superior handling by the three-quarters. The final score was 31—nil in Cheltenham's favour. The match was essentially a battle of forwards, and on the whole both the packs were fairly level, but it was when the Cheltenham three-quarters got the ball that the School's chief weakness became evident—their tackling. Team :—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. T. Baxter; D. J. Walliker, R. F. Gad£; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, A. D. Bolland, J. M. Paul, W. N. Bryer, R. Anstey.

SCHOOL v. SEBRIGHT SCHOOL, WOLVERLEY. The return match at Wolverley proved a dire reversal of the School's home victory three weeks previously. After ten minutes' hard play Bush dropped a goal which gave the School the lead, but Wolverley soon crossed the line after some scrappy work in the loose, and the try was converted. Before half-time Wolverley were awarded a penalty in front of the posts and succeeded in kicking a goal, leaving the School four points to catch up. Immediately after half-time the School retaliated brilliantly and Walliker scored an unconverted try near the corner flag. After this the School failed to show any real vigour or enterprise, and allowed Wolverley to score twice more before the end of the match. The result was unexpected but nevertheless deserved, for although Wolverley were a definitely improved team the School never brought to light that knowledge of rugger which had undoubtedly been instilled into them by this stage of the season. Final score : School, 7 points, Wolverley 14.

December, 1935.

Team :—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, D. Sheriff, C. G. Bush, G. N. T. Baxter; D. J. Walliker, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, A. D. Bolland, J. M. Paul, W. N. Bryer, E. W. Sankey.

SCHOOL v. WARWICK. Played at Warwick on a soft ground. The School started well and managed to hold their opponents for some time, but a certain lack of vigour in the forwards allowed Warwick to score four tries before half-time. Their fly-half was mainly responsible for these, of which one was converted. At half-time the score was 14—nil in Warwick's favour. In the second half the School rallied and the game became much more even. The forwards began to put more life into their play, and the three-quarters, whose passing had been somewhat wild in the first half, showed definite signs of liveliness. In spite of this, however, some unfortunate lapses in the defence allowed Warwick to score four more tries, one being converted. They finished up with a burst of lively play, and a neat interception by Sheriff might have led to a score with better backing up; but the School were finally beaten 28— nil, after a most enjoyable match. Team :—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, D. Sheriff, C. G. Bush, G. N. T. Baxter; D. J. Walliker, K. B. Dyer; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, W. N. Bryer, J. M. Paul, E. W. Sankey, R. C. Hicks.

SCHOOL v. BLOXHAM. The return match with Bloxham was played away on a wet and muddy pitch. The latter showed a marked improvement on their form in the match at Worcester. The state of the pitch and the resulting condition of the ball were the deciding factors in the game, since the Bloxham side had a control over these disturbing conditions which gave them the mastery of the School XV. A detailed account of the match would, therefore, be out of place; sufficient to say that the score was 14—o at halftime, and that, thanks to quick heeling and the speed of the Bloxham wing three-quarters, this was doubled before no-side. The School failed to score, though some good movements were carried out, which ought to have proved successful. The final result, 28—o, does not, however, do justice to the School pack, who held their own well. Team:—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. T. Baxter; D. J. Walliker, R. F. Gad£; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, W. N. Bryer, A. D. Bolland, J. M. Paul, E. W. Sankey. * * *

SCHOOL V. WORCESTER WEDNESDAY. Played at Perdiswell Park. The School managed to keep their opponents out for about ten minutes, but from then onwards Worcester kept up a ceaseless attack and scored frequently. The School forwards made one or two determined rushes which carried the ball into the opposing twenty-five, and Baxter ran some distance down the touch-line, but halftime came with Worcester leading 17—o. In the second half the School, playing downhill, attacked rather more frequently, and some good passing by the threequarters nearly led to a try; but Worcester continued to break through and score with monotonous regularity. The final score was 39—o. The scratch side, taken as it was from the Worcester ist XV and " A " XV, was much heavier, faster and cleverer than the School side, who were by no means discredited. Team:—S. N. Hackwood; F. H. Walker, K. B. Dyer, C. G. Bush, G. N. Baxter; D. J. Walliker, R. F. Gade; E. C. Luscombe, J. F. Lavender, R. G. Brooks, L. Rathbone, W. N. Bryer, A. D. Bolland, J. M. Paul, E. W. Sankey. * * * The draw for the House Matches was as follows:— School House I School House I

Day Boys Castle House. Hostel

1041

THE VIGORNIAN.

December, 1935.

(«S-o)

) Hostel j ('7-0)

School House (19-0)

IST ROUND. The first round of the House Matches did not prove extremely exciting. In the match between School House and Day Boys the superiority of the former was evident from the start. The School House three-quarter line was composed of ist XV three-quarters with one exception. They combined together extremely well and Gad£ played a fine game at scrum-half. Although Day Boys put up a very good fight, the result was never in the balance. W. N. Bryer's tackling and defence was excellent. The final score was 25—0 in favour of School House. The second match between Hostel and Castle House lacked spirit and thrust. Castle House showed signs of levelling up the game several times in the latter part of the first half, but Hostel were never seriously challenged, and they won by 17 points (one goal and four tries) to nil.

Rouse Cricket iftatcbts. The House matches, held at the end of last term, provided some most interesting cricket, and scoring was rather freer than usual. Day Boys, the holders, were drawn to play School House, and Castle House to play Hostel in the first

round. Hostel won their match comfortably, by an innings, and thus met Day Boys, who beat School House by 136 runs, in the final. The match began on July 24th, and Day Boys, captained by R. L. Thomas, batted first on a hard wicket. Four wickets fell for 34 runs, and then Neale and Hartwright batted well, for the innings to close at 130. Hostel owed their reply to a splendid forcing innings by their captain, W. G. Spencer, who hit eight fours and a six in his 65. With a narrow lead of 15, Day Boys scored a further 168 runs in the second innings, and thus set Hostel a substantial task on a wicket that was just beginning to show signs of crumbling. Despite a courageous effort by Poths, who made 52, Hostel were all out for 108, and lost by 75 runs. Scores:— DAY BOYS—IST INNINGS. P. Neale c Baxter b Spencer J. S. Pressdee c Spencer b Lawrey M. E. Nicholls b Spencer J. L. Warren b Lawrey ... ... R. L. Thomas b Spencer C. G. Hartwright Ibw b Lawrey F. G. Firth b Spencer W. N. Bryer b Lawrey H. W. Hinds c Poths b Spencer A. M. Penny c Cant b Spencer ... F. J. Curtis not out Extras ... ...

...

...

... ...

...

...

...

...

...

...

Total

52 8 6 o o 23 2 3 9 n 4 12 130

BOWLING.—Spencer, 6 for 62 ; Lawrey, 4 for 55; Cant, o for 2. HOSTEL—IST INNINGS. F. W. Lawrey Ibw b Pressdee W. G. Spencer c and b Neale F. E. Cant Ibw b Nicholls ... G. L. Napier run out H. D. Poths b Neale 6. N. Baxter run out E. C. Luscombe b Nicholls S. O. Lock b Neale H. Mansell b Neale D. W. Gaylor b Neale L. C. Jones not out Extras

...

...

...

... "...

9 65 20

4 2

...

3 o 8 o o o 4

Total BOWLING.—Pressdee, i for 24 ; Neale, 5 for 60; Nicholls, 2 for 13 ; Curtis, o for 14.

THE VIGORNIAN.

1042 DAY BOYS—2ND INNINGS. P. Neale c Spencer b Lawrey R. L. Thomas b Spencer ... ... ... ... M. E. Nicholls Ibw b Lawrey ... ... ... J. S. Pressdee b Baxter ... J. L. Warren c Mansell b Lawrey C. G. Hartwright c Lawrey b Spencer ... ... F. G. Firth b Spencer W. N. Bryer c Luscombe b Spencer H. W. Hinds b Spencer A. M. Penny c Spencer b Lawrey ... ... F. J. Curtis not out Extras

... ...

...

...

Total

36 o 26 40 12 20 3 10 I 8 5 7 168

BOWLING.—Spencer, 5 for 72 ; Baxter, i for 12 ; Lawrey, 4 for 68. HOSTEL—2ND INNINGS. W. G. Spencer st Thomas b Neale G. L. Napier Ibw b Pressdee H. D. Poths b Neale H. Mansell Ibw b Neale F. W. Lawrey c Hinds b Neale F. E. Cant c Bryer b Neale G. N. Baxter b Nicholls E. C. Luscombe b Nicholls S. O. Lock c Hinds b Neale D. W. Gaylor run out ... ... ... L. C. Jones not out Extras Total

...

...

n i 52 7 7 4 i 3 7 o o 15 108

BOWLING.—Pressdee, i for 27; Nkholls, 2 for 17; Neale, 6 for 50. Result: Day Boys won by 75 runs.

o.c.c Rotes. Twenty-five recruits joined this term. This is a great increase on this term of last year. The deficiency in strength, so apparent of late years, is being remedied, and if Day Boys continue to join in large numbers there can be no doubt that the Corps will eventually regain its maximum strength. No fewer than 12 Day Boys joined, thanks mainly to the exertions of Mr. Thomas. May the spirit and example of their seniors be fostered amongst the younger generation ! *

* *

#

*

No. i Platoon was again divided into the two Cert. " A " Squads, No. i Squad comprising this term's candidates. Of the. ii candidates for Part I (Practical), 8 were successful. The results of Part II (Theoretical) are not yet to hand. *

December, 1935.

The Band attended church parade on Armistice Sunday, at Hallow, beating the Tattoo and the Retreat, and playing the local branch of the British Legion to church. They are to be congratulated upon earning the sincere approbation of a!l present. * * * The Band has maintained its high standard of efficiency, and although it was placed fourth in the band competition, too high praise cannot be bestowed on a voluntary unit of the Corps of which we are all justly proud. Band notes will be found elsewhere. » » * During the latter part of the term Captain Gurney, from the Depot, visited us and gave us a most interesting lecture on use of gas in modern warfare, and managed to convince us that it is not so terrifying as it would seem, provided people take the trouble to learn all the necessary precautions. *

« *

We publish an extract from the speech of Field-Marshal Sir A. A. Montgomery Massingberd, at the Annual O.T.C. Officers' Dinner :— " The Secretary of State had recently been asked by a deputation of Public School Headmasters whether he still considered the O.T.C. of national importance. He answered without the slightest hesitation that he considered the O.T.C. at the present time was probably more important than it had ever been before, and he told them why. The O.T.C. forms what is the only reliable force we can depend upon to supply officers on mobilisation. And when I tell you that if we ever have to mobilise the Regular Army and the Territorial Army again for a big war in defence of our country, we shall start with a shortage of something like 14,000 officers, you can well realize the importance to us of having something really reliable to fall back on. Another reason is that we want to draw our officers for the Territorial Army and Supplementary Reserve from young men who have done a certain amount of previous training, and we do get from some of the schools a very good supply of officers." * * * Field Day. Field Operations took place in the Old Deer Park, Pirton, on October 24th. Rain, however, prevented the Band parading and very nearly " washed out " the day's operations altogether. At the last minute the C.O. of the Depot very kindly gave us permission to carry out a tour of inspection. We were taken round in parties by senior N.C.O.'s, everyone being greatly impressed by the museum, cells, and the gas chamber. The whole contingent had the opportunity of experiencing the effects of tear gas with and without gas masks. After lunch, " standing up " operations took place, due to the saturated condition of the ground. The advance guard of a force, under Under-Officer Luscombe, advancing from the direction of Gloucester, were fired upon from some rising ground on their right flank, whilst marching along the Kinnersley-Kempsey road. This force immediately changed its front, and maintaining contact with the enemy, under

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

C.S.M. Brooks, proceeded to drive them back in the direction of Pirton village. This was accomplished in a series of bounds, with Sergt. Hicks's platoon advancing on the left flank against a platoon under Sergt. Lavender; meanwhile Cpl. Dyer carried out a successful flanking movement on the right against the enemy platoon under Cpl. Rathbone. After a prolonged resistance the enemy were forced to take up a strongly defensive position on a hill from which they were evicted by a rather inefficient " Rocket Battery " attached to the attacking force. Having captured the hill, the attacking force then took up an outpost position for the night. A good attack was delivered by the force under C.S.M. Brooks, which was almost successful. Great confusion was caused, however, by the " Rocket Battery," which was supposed to be putting up a barrage, firing into its own troops, and also by some important orders being misconstrued. On the whole the operations were highly successful and everyone enjoyed themselves in spite of the continual drizzle. Camp. After the disappointment of not attending Camp last year, owing to sickness, we went into Camp at Tweseldown. This Camp proved to be an astounding success from every point of view. The weather was excellent throughout, there was very little sickness, and the food was good. The four Battalions were officered by the Coldstream and Scots Guards, and as usual the running of the camp was perfect. The School contingent formed two platoons of No. 5 Company. No. 4 Battalion with one Charterhouse and the Bury platoon to complete the strength. Our Battalion Commander, Major Bootle-Wilbraham, M.C., and his staff spared no pains in making the battalion training interesting, instructive, and at the same time enjoyable. The demonstrations were excellent and of the type on which all our field-day manoeuvres should be modelled. It may be interesting to note that the Battalion won the Bridge-building Competition ; they gained first place in practically every guard-mounting inspection; and they also had first and fourth places to their credit in the Band Competition. The drums of the and Coldstreams beat Reveille and Tattoo every morning and evening. The result of the Band Competition, however, was disappointing. The School were placed fourth; Cheltenham winning, with Beaumont a close second. On the evening of the Band Competition we mounted battalion guard, and gained second place. * * * Camp Report, 1935. (Tweseldown Camp.) DRILL.—Keen and smart. On the occasion on which they found the guard they were second in the competition. FIELD WORK.—Very good. Junior commanders have good control over their sections and platoons. All ranks have taken a genuine interest in the training. GENERAL TURN-OUT.—Good. The Band was particularly well turned out. CAMP LINES.—Very good.

1043

GENERAL REMARKS.—This is a comparatively small contingent, but it has gone in for everything with zest. They have all worked cheerfully and well throughout Camp. « * * Promotions and Appointments. to be Under-Officer. C.S.M. Luscombe Cpl. Brooks „ C.S.M. „ Allen ,, Sergeant. „ Hicks „ „ ,, Lavender ,, ,, L/Cpl. Dyer „ Corporal. ,, Rathbone „ ,, „ Gaylor „ „ Bolland „ „ „ Cadet Baxter ,, L/Corporal. „ Gad£ „ „ Cpl. Dyer to be Secretary of Shooting. * * * The following passed Part I (Practical) Certificate " A " Examination :— Cadet Bocking Cadet Mole „ Bush ,, Sheriff „ Eckersley „ Walliker „ Gad<5 „ Williams * * * O.T.C. ACCOUNTS. Year ending October ist, 1935. INCOME. £ s. d. Fees—3rd Term 1934 64 16 6 ,, ist Term 1935 69 ii 8 „ and Term 1935 176 9 9 Government Grant 1934 56 18 o Army Draft ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 18 n Cr. Balance ist October, 1934 95 i 10 £476 16 8 EXPENDITURE. Wages Band Field Days Army School of P.T. Musketry ... ... ... Clothing and Equipment ... Camp Stationery Bank Charges Sundries Cr. Balance ist October, 1935

... ...

... ...

£ s. d. 153 18 a 25 16 o 38 6 4 16 5 6 ... 24 16 o ... 19 8 6 108 7 8 19 8 10 o 13 o o 75 8 10 ^476 16 8

(Signed) S. D. STRONG, Capt., Officer Commanding. (Signed) C. CREIGHTON, Headmaster.

THE VIGORNIAN.

1044

December, 1935.

Band Dotes.

Cfte Scouts.

After the encouraging performance of the Band during last year, we had every hope of maintaining the high standard set by our predecessors. Our hopes were to a certain extent justified. As can be seen from the last term's Vigomian, there was a very high percentage of ist Class Drummers and Buglers. The climax of all our practising and drill comes in the Band Compteition at Camp. This year we were placed fourth, the Cheltenham College Brass Band gaining first place. The Band were placed first in " turn-out." Owing to two or three brass bands being entered, the judges must have found their task a hard one as regards " playing." Apart from the Band Competition the Band played during the inspection of the battalion guards on Saturday evening, and we had the honour of playing the Battalion to church, for which we were complimented by the Brigade Commander, Lt.-Col. the Earl of Romney. This term the Band should have paraded on two occasions but the Field-Day Parade was cancelled owing to bad weather. However, we were invited to play the Hallow Branch of the British Legion to church on Armistice Sunday. The Band also beat the Tattoo and the Retreat in the church during the service. At present the Band is up to its full strength (16 buglers, 10 drummers, bass drum, cymbals, and triangle) and there is every prospect that the Band will be as good as it ever has been. In conclusion we should all like to thank Bandmaster Latham for the time and trouble he has spent with the Band during the term. E.C.L.

Our numbers remain about the same. Yarnold has been appointed Acting Assistant Scoutmaster, and has been succeeded as Troop Leader by Morris. The Patrol Leaders are R. Anstey, Baxter, D. Briggs, Eckersley, Ewins, Hinds, Lodge and Miles. Weekly Patrol Meetings have been held throughout the term. The main work has been to get the Tenderfoots through their preliminary tests, and this has been successfully accomplished. < In addition, work has been carried on towards First and Second Class tests and badges.

1271

SUMMER CAMP. Once again the Summer Camp was held on Light Horse Scar, Newby Bridge. Seventeen Scouts attended, with Mr. Pedder, Mr. Macdonald, and R. E. Summers, O.V. The weather was perfect in that not a drop of rain fell, but there was some disappointment that this gave no opportunity for the testing of the storm shelters that each Patrol had spent the first day in making. Yarnold was Troop Leader, Hinds acted as Storekeeper, and there were three Patrols under Morris, Lodge and Briggs. The Scoutmasters, in turn, inspected each morning, concentrating each day on a different detail of campcraft: kitchens, equipment, tents, etc. Marks were allotted, and in the aggregate Morris's Patrol was adjudged the most efficient. Morris was thereupon presented with the Troop pennant and authorised to hoist it before his tent at future camps. The ten days passed all too quickly in scouting tests and games over the hills and valleys, with fishing and swimming in Boretree Tarn as the favourite recreations. Perch and pike provided many a meal, and great excitement was caused by the capture of a four-pound eel, the largest on record for the Tarn. A great feature of the Camp was the excellence of the Camp Fires, at which Summers instilled unparalleled vigour into the choruses and Mr. Macdonald rehearsed each patrol in impromptu three-minute sketches. One day was spent in an excursion on Lake Windermere in a motor-boat, at which we made our guests a small local Troop camping in the neighbourhood. On the Saturday afternoon we held a children's party, inviting some twenty of the children of the tenants on the Finsthwaite Estate to tea and games. Rides in the trek-cart and down an improvised rope-railway proved very popular, and hosts as well as guests enjoyed an exhibition of " tilting the bucket."

K.B.D.

At one of the Camp Fires the Troop Leader took the opportunity of presenting Mr. Pedder with the picnic-basket

Sfcootlna Doles. This term we have devoted our time mainly to classification by the Empire Test, of all members of the Corps who are eligible. The standard as a whole has been high and 9 First Class Shots have been discovered. Altogether, there are 13 First Class and 13 Second Class Shots. Four places in the VIII had to be filled, but candidates were not lacking. Those chosen did justice to themselves in the only match this term, the S.M.R.C. Competition, which took place on November 3Oth. In this the VIII as a whole showed great promise for next term's matches. The total was 54 points higher than that of last year. Individual scores :— Total. H.P.S. 100 100 aoo E. C. Luscombe ... 80 ... 87 ... 167 K. B. Dyer 80 ... 88 ... 168 B. Bagenal 82 ... 73 ... 155 F. R. Miles 76 ... 83 ... 159 L. Rathbone 73 ... 75 ... 148 J. M. Paul 86 ... 84 ... 170 H. Mansell 77 ... 65 ... 142 E. M. Bearcroft 76 ... 86 ... 162 630

641

Field Day was held on Mr. Anstey's land at Kempsey, and we are grateful to him for enabling us to make a welcome change from Kempsey Common and the Old Hills. The programme arranged had to be cancelled owing to the heavy rain, but in the morning some useful work was done under cover, and after lunch the weather cleared up sufficiently to allow of a short " wide game " and a messagecarrying test. A small Patrol of Day Boys represented the Troop at the annual church parade on Mayor's Sunday.

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

to which the whole Troop had subscribed as a wedding present. On the last night we held the now traditional dinner, at which each course is cooked for the whole Troop by a different Patrol. What happened after that dinner is no concern of those who were not at the Camp! Hartwright and Lodge successfully accomplished their First Class Journeys, and Morris, Briggs and Pressdee were passed by the District Commissioner at Blakeholm for their Camper Badges.

Cite $aotti0. The following passed the " Royal Life Saving Society1! Test," at the end of last term:— Intermediate Certificate and Bronze Medallion. Policy, F. H. Briggs, D. Bagenal, P. Gade, R. F. Bearcroft, W. G. C. Miles, F. R. Cant, F. E. V. Reynolds, J. P. Sutton, J. Award of Merit—Silver Medallion. Glew, G. W. L. Sheriff, D. Instructor's Certificate. Langley, D. H. Bar (1935) to Silver Medallion. Third Bar (1935) to Bronze Medallion. H. E. Nicholls.

ClK Cibrarp. The following have been added to the School Library :— Raggle Taggle Professor Starkie Spanish Raggle Taggle Professor Starkie Victorious Troy John Masefield The House of the Four Winds John Buchan The Luck of the Bodkins P. G. Woodehouse The following were presented by J. H. L. Burnett, Esq. : All On the Irish Shore Somerville and Ross Further Experiences of an Irish R.M....Somerville and Ross Some Irish Yesterday Somerville and Ross * * * The following have been added to the Reading Room :— Gino Watkins J. M. Scott J. W. N. Sullivan Science: A New Outline Nature in the Wild Country Life, Ltd.

Fifteen old books in the Library were replaced. It has been decided to take a French paper. Flight and The Wireless World are being sent free by Iliffe & Sons. The Amateur Wireless has been discontinued.

1045

Film Socictp. This term the Film Society have given altogether nine performances, three more than last year, all of which have been of a much higher standard of entertainment. The improvements which have been made to the projector have enabled us to show a picture which is as wide as the screen, and which can be seen clearly from the back of College Hall. Many people have asked why we are unable to show any modern films. The reason for this is that most of the films made to-day rely practically entirely upon their sound—a deplorable fact which naturally means that good acting gives way to good sound effects. A sound film, if it was shown without its sound, would be unintelligible: for this reason a great number of titles would have to be added before the film became understandable, and these titles would naturally tend to make the film monotonous and uninteresting. It is because of this that very few sound films, with the exception of such masterpieces as " The White Hell of Pitz Palm," have been reduced to sub-standard silent films. The films shown have been of varying types. Perhaps the most worthy of mention was the " Vigornia News," our own film of school events, which was presented with a running commentary and sound effects. Of the other films " Mickey Mouse " was probably the most popular feature, whereas of the more serious type, " Q Ships," " Gloria," "The Flying Scotsman," and " The Manxman," are all worthy of mention. It only remains to thank those members of the Society who have so readily given up their spare time on Sunday evenings, and those members of the School who have enabled the performance to be successful through their A.D.B. presence,

£tcture$, On October i2th, Col. R. H. McVittie gave us an enjoyable lecture on " Aviation and the Empire." He began with an interesting description of the Imperial Airways' system at Croydon aerodrome, explaining the measures taken for ensuring the safety of the various air services. We then enjoyed a journey very approximately over the route of the Imperial Airways service to Australia, with a few digressions, notably some wanderings in Egypt and a view of some quite well-known buildings in Athens! Col. McVittie stressed the excellent organisation of Imperial Airways, and left us with a feeling that we could travel in an Imperial Airways liner with the utmost safety and comfort. * * * On October 26th we once more had the pleasure of hearing a recital by Mr. Leonard Isaacs and Mr. Maurice Hardy in College Hall. We need make no remarks about the quality of the performance: the long association of Mr. Isaacs and Mr. Hardy always assures us of a really high standard of music. Those who were fortunate enough to

1046

THE VIGORNIAN.

listen-in on the National wavelength on the Sunday following would have heard Mr. Isaacs playing a programme similar in many details. The selection of works was, as usual, suited to please all tastes, and consisted of :— Sonata in D major Mendelssohn Sonata in G minor Handel Piano Solos: Nocturne in B major, Op. 62 Chopin Can9o: Danse Nos. I & III Frederic Mompou Poissons d'or Debussy Danse Rituelle du Feu de Falla Cello Solos: Ele"gie FauriS Mazurka No. i Popper Piece en forme d'Habanera Rowel Allegro Appassionato Saint-Saens

On November gth we were once more visited by Mr. Escott North, whose name is by now well known in the School. His lecture this time was entitled " The Trail of the Cowboy." The lecture was divided into two halves : first an interesting description of the difficulties which a cowboy has to encounter, and how his clothes are adapted to circumstances. This was amusingly illustrated by Mr. Escott North's own costume, which gave a true cowboy atmosphere to the lecture. Then came the slides, illustrating the tales Mr. Escott North had told about the " bronco "—and let us remember to spell it without the " h "! He deplored the modern thoroughbred, and pointed out that the " bronco " was the real horse. We were then shown pictures of the lecturer's own house and the various appliances he had made for himself. High praise was bestowed upon Mr. Escott North after the lecture was over by the Headmaster, who said that he (Mr. Escott North) had given the same lecture here many times, but each time it had seemed quite different. We felt this to be only too true, and were all delighted by the personal touch which was noticeable throughout the whole lecture. On Saturday, November 23rd, the Headmaster gave us a lecture on " Worcester Cathedral and College Green since the Reformation." The lecture was on an historical basis, and vicissitude was its keynote. In dealing with the Cathedral, the Headmaster showed us various slides of the many restorations which have taken place, and the different aspects which it has presented during this period. Illustrations of the Bell-tower and old St. Michael's Church were of particular interest. We were next informed of the reason for the little window in the North Choir Aisle—to allow the Sacrist to watch over the Cathedral from his house, which was adjoining on the north.

December, 1935.

Of the various houses round College Green, perhaps those belonging to the many Prebendaries were the most interesting. Views of College Hall, as it used to look, and of the Guesten Hall (the ruins of which now stand in Canon Hutchinson's garden) gave us an excellent impression of what College Green looked like not many years ago. The lecture ended with views of the Castle Mound, which once occupied the site of the School Garden, and which was the oldest site in the City of Worcester. After the lecture, the Dean proposed a vote of thanks to the Headmaster, and declared that he had learnt much that he had not known before—expressing, in fact, the views of all of us. It only remains to thank the Headmaster for a most enjoyable and instructive lecture.

Oxford Cetrtr. Oxford, December, 1935. To the Editors of " The Vigomian." Dear Sirs, It is so long since there was an Oxford Letter in The Vigornian that we have almost forgotten what one looks like. We hope that you have done so too and will make no comparisons. As you may know, it is the job of " Freshers " to write the Letter, especially since most people disappear when it is mentioned through fear of having the job themselves. It must therefore be composed of first impressions and usually represents only one man's point of view— although vain attempts are made to conceal this. We feel compelled to mention the weather in spite of the fact that one of your number is trying hard to say something concise about it in the Editorial. We hear that the Severn has again broken bounds. The Thames has too, and there are new tales every day of how half a dozen eights were clinging desperately to the posts above Iffley to avoid being swept over the weir. The long distance race is on to-day and they are rowing four miles against the stream at Radley. Last week they used to find themselves rowing across fields. Hockey has been impossible for most of the time, but rugger has been—you know the kind of game, all mud, feet and fighting. But about people : P. BOWLES has appeared once or twice, on one occasion to take his degree. He now has a car instead of a motor-bike. We did hear what he is doing, but have forgotten. He is looking almost dignified nowadays, and " with good capon " lined. F. H. YARNOLD has now left us, apparently for Burma. Someone said that a lot of you came down for the All Blacks' match. One of us did meet Mr. Burnett, but he could not do more than pass the time of day: there were crowds of people, bucketsful of rain, and both had to dash off to tea.

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

As for the rest of us :— H. BAYLIS (St. Stephen's Hall). Has moved from Keble and is studying Theology. This by hearsay—we never see him. I. C. M. CONNER (Keble). In his third year and has begun to work. Talks French with an Irish brogue at Oxford Sorbonne meetings. Criticizes the present management of the Irish Club. Eternally broke. Frequently has tea—for two. P. HEADEACH (Keble). Our sole surviving graduate. Taking Dip. Ed. (Education Diploma), and as always is leading an idle and (as he puts it) not too respectable existence. E. G. KNAPP-FISHER (Trinity). Lives in a very pleasant spot at the top of Headington Hill. Keeps very regular hours, which seems to indicate a reformed character. (Possibly!) J. F. LISTER (Keble). Rarely seen. Is a " server " in Chapel, so we have the impression that he has not altered a bit. A. V. PARSONS (Queen's). Sometimes seen walking very quietly to lectures. Has lost count of time, he has been here so long. Frequents Kemp Hall, so that he does not advertise that he has the coffee habit. We think he does not go alone. A. J. N. RICHARDS (Hertford). To be seen with Conner or other Irishmen. Sometimes at the Oxford Sorbonne and at morning coffee. Celebrated a birthday too well with the Irish Club. Trains a drum and fife band in Cowley. J. L. WARREN (Hertford). Same as ever. Has started a Chess Club in College which so far has lost every match. Makes many suggestions in the library and J.C.R. We hear he collects autographs ; has he approached the Proctors ? With which gossip and nonsense we wish you many wrong impressions, a merry Christmas and a New Year such as we hope to have in Oxford. And now to post, Yours, etc., OXON.

Cambridge tetter. Cambridge, December, 1935. To the Editors of " The Vigorntan." Dear Sirs, On receipt of your demand for a " Cambridge Letter," a meeting of all resident O.V.s was immediately summoned. At the meeting, held in the rooms of D. W. Walker, at Selwyn College, it was unanimously decided to form, or rather revive, the Cambridge University Old Vigornians' Society (C.U.O.V.S.). D. W. Walker was elected president for the ensuing year, and R. L. Thomas hon. secretary and hon. treasurer. Our membership at present is not very large, but we hope that the School will support us better in future.

1047

We give some account of the individual members of the C.U.O.V.S. R. L. THOMAS. Is at Sidney Sussex College, and has become an enthusiastic oarsman. He has been rowing in his College 2nd boat, and finds the training very severe. He is also a member of the C.U.O.T.C. He is reading for the Classical Tripos, but the less said about that the better. D. W. WALKER. Is at Selwyn College, studying Agriculture. He takes his exercise on the University farm. He plays an occasional game of rugger for the College znd XV. We hope that the School will make a special effort, and that you will use the influence of your columns, to provide us with a much needed increase in membership next year. Yours, etc., CANTAB.

'°Ci$ Flftp JPears Since/' From The Vigornian of December, 1885. " The most important event which has taken part in our School life since the appearance of our last number is perhaps the commencement of the long-looked-for restoration of our schoolroom and the consequent removal of the School to other quarters. It fortunately happened that the house in College Green, formerly occupied by General Atlay,1 was vacant, and there the homeless School took up its abode. This house has proved very well fitted to meet our wants, yet we feel sure that we are only expressing the opinions of masters and boys alike when we say that we shall be very glad to meet once more in our old school-room." * * * " We are glad to see that the popularity of the boatingclub has in no way diminished. We think however that many of its members too readily forget the real object of the club, which is the promotion of good rowing, in the hope that an annual regatta may soon become one of the School institutions." * * * " Just before going to Press we have heard that our Dean (Lord Alwyne Compton) has accepted the bishopric of Ely. Whilst heartily congratulating him on his new honour, we cannot help expressing our regret at losing him from Worcester. We shall also much miss Lady Alwyne Compton, and trust that they both have a happy life awaiting them at Ely." * * * " The repairs of the Great Hall are going on steadily if not rapidly. The south side has been refaced and much progress has been made with the tracery of the new West window, which will certainly be very beautiful." * * * " We hear that the plans for the new School House have been approved and that the building will commence as soon as possible. The present classrooms2 being so convenient, 1 This 2

was about where Castle House now stands. In a house near the site of the block that contains the labs. It was burnt down about ten years later.

1048

THE VIGORNIAN.

the erection of new ones will probably be postponed for a time." * * * " This year's cricket was a decided success, the three matches which were lost being played against teams far stronger than any of our opponents of last year."

"Cbe Ppramld Golf Ball/' No! This is not a new shape in golf balls, though even here there is some point in it, or at least on it; rather I am concerned with a theory expressed some time ago, and its sequel. Here is my story : " Hullo, Padr£ ! Golfing this morning? Why, you won't be able to see your ball! " Thus a stranger addressed me on the verandah of Mena House Hotel one misty morning. I was chaplain of the hotel, and, as well as being the manager and secretary, the green-man of the little ninehole course situated immediately under the shadow of the Great Pyramid. Incidentally, I had only just taken up golf in order to qualify for my new post! On this particular morning you could just see the dim shape of the enormous Pyramid, slowly emerging from the mist. I replied that all would be clear in half an hour, and that I had much to do besides practising on the links. But he began to talk and just as my friend the hotel doctor joined us he propounded his theory—that, owing to the Pyramid's shape, it would be impossible to drive a golf ball off the top and clear the base. " There's your chance," gibed the doctor. Well, I explained that I was only a novice, and then we three started for the Pyramid. We were joined by one of my caddies, and, wondering whether the stranger was trying a " legpull" under the impression that the top was really coneshaped, I left the doctor with him on the plateau. The caddie and I started our strenuous climb, carrying a little wet sand, a brassie, and golf balls. On reaching the top the difficulty of " stance " presented itself. Two fairly flat stones in the shape of an " L," with an iron pin two and a half feet high in the angle, a useful breeze, and certain death if you slipped—it was not very cheering! " Mahlesh " (no matter!)—I took the sand and made a " tee " (to keep the ball from blowing away). Then, with that beastly pin sticking up just clear of the club shaft, I addressed the ball. " Eye on," " slow up," " carry through "—I'd hit it! Not daring to look down, I did the same with the other ball, and then looked. The doctor and the stranger were looking away from the Pyramid. I clambered down and came up to them. The stranger's glum face was enough, but the doctor clapped me on the back with a " Well hit, Padr£, though I half expected you instead of the ball." I said nothing, but Isn't it common sense that a flat surface would exert greater attraction than a cone, however wonderful, lofty, and historic? Perhaps though, after all, the stranger was out for a little amusement at the expense of someone else, especially— THE PADRE.

tt

December, 1935.

Saturdap tn tbe Plapflrouml.

tt

The bugler sounded " Markers," His notes clipped close, each one ; The C.S.M. said " Markers" And added also " Shun ! " Alas, one of the Markers (He had just joined the corps), Came on without his bayonet The sergeant gave a roar. " You blundering, blistering nitwit, You've done that once before, I'll let you off with two days, Next time I'll give you four." The Marker murmured " Yes, sir," But " sotto voce " said, " If you did give four days, You'd find yourself in bed." The company paraded, And promptly stood at ease ; The Corporals " proved their sections," The C.S.M. was pleased. For once no one was absent, Each man was standing there, A bayonet on his rifle, His head held in the air. They waited for the Captain, A stalwart man and true, He'd led the Corps for five years, And coached the ist IV crew. The C.S.M. saluted, His heels met with a rap! The Captain raised his glov'd hand Until it touched his cap. The C.S.M. next asked him If he might carry on ; The Captain answered " Right-ho! " And went the way he'd come. Each section unfixed bayonets. Sloped arms, formed fours, turned right; Some marched off round the playground And others out of sight. They marched till tfiey were tired Around and round the Green, And when at last they halted They'd lost their pleasant mien. But when the Sergeant saw them And asked what was amiss, Their countenances brightened, They said " Give us dismiss." So when the Sergeant realized, He let them go away; They joyfully obeyed him, And here I '11 end my lay ! P.McE.

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

CDrte Cetters or a Seoemeenil) Centurp Bead master, The Library of Corpus Christ! College, Oxford, contains several bulky volumes of manuscripts once the property of Christopher Wase, Esquire Bedell of Civil Law in the University in the seventeenth century. Wase was the author of a little book called Considerations concerning Free Schools, as settled in England (Oxford, 1678). In preparation for this book, or probably for some more ambitious work which never saw the light, he solicited information from his friends and acquaintances in endowed schools all over the country, and the materials he thus amassed are included in these volumes and are a valuable, though little known, source of information for historians of individual schools. Among his correspondents is the Rev. John Wright, Master of the King's School, Worcester, 1667-1696, who wrote him three letters which, though disappointing both to Wase and to us, are interesting for the light they throw on his character. They do not add enough to our knowledge to justify their inclusion verbatim in the forthcoming History of the School, but they deserve to be recorded somewhere in print, and I can think of no worthier place than the pages of The Vigornian. * * «

(Vol. II, f. 239)

Hond. Sr. That yu reed noe answer to yr l[ette]r the last weeke Impute it to the true Cause, a desire to give yu full satisfaction p[ar]ticularly in yr request that concerns my Ld. of Worcester,1 who was expected the last weeke from the Bath, but came not. This day wee are assured hee will bee heere, and I shall not fayle to p[re]sent to him the sense of yr peticon with yr paper inclosed neyther doe I question but that hee will fully p[er]forme through his diocese what I had designed to doe, but with better Authority & more expedition. As for the donation of Mr. Wild,2 It was to the Free Schoole in the Citty of Worcester, a foundation of Latter date than the Kings Schoole in the Colledge, of which you shall have a more p[er]fect Account suddenly. And heere I request one favour at yr hands, to excuse my long silence to my Reverd and worthy fnd. Dr. Crowther,3 and to acquaint him that I have at the Last obtained my p[ar]sonage of Exall* by the assistance of my Ld. of Worcester, where I hope to bee soe happy (some time) as to see yu and the Dr. togeather. In the Interim I shall take a care of the pub [lie?] affayre I meane the returne of an » Bishop Walter Blandford. The gift of part of Pitchcroft to the school which has since become the Royal Grammar School. 3 Joseph Crowther, D.D., Canon of Worcester since 1661, deprived for non-compliance at the Revolution, and died 1689. * Exhall in Warwickshire. z

1049

Accompt of our foundations in this diocese to yr hands, from whome we must receive the benefitt, which must bee acceptable to all, but more particularly to Sr. yr faythfull frd & very humble servt. JOHN WRIGHT. Wigorn. Septemb. i° [i6]74 [Endorsed:] For my hond. fnd. Christphr. Wase Esqr. at St. Mary Hall, Oxford.

(Vol. II, f. 241)

Honnord Sr. I know that the longe silence (wherewith I have tempted yr patience) deserves noe other Interpretation than such as will render mee rude enough, for I must confesse I had rec[eive]d all the obligacons in the world (at the returne of my Grammarians and the receipt of that gratefull p[re]sent of the Romane Antiquities) to have moulded me into better manners and more civilities (if it had beene possible) than to draw yu into a supposition of my negligence, by the suspension of my answer, and savinge my paper, but my Stoicall humour still prompted mee, to expresse myselfe rather by deeds than words. And I might have continued yet in that resolution had not the best of my Reverend friends Dr. Crowther extorted this Accompt from my hands by playne Importunity, and to give yu this satisfaction that I have engaged almost all the diocese of Worcester and rec[eive]d promises from the p[ar]ticular Masters to returne an answer to yr Enquiries and to set forward the Ingenious designe yu have in hand. And now, if yr Candour will but Impute my longe Intermission to the transportation of the zeale I have for yr designe yu will yet adde [ano]ther obligation, to the many rec[eive]d already by— Sr, yr very faythfull & very affectionate fnd & servt. JOHN WRIGHT. Wigorn. gbris 18° [Endorsed:] For Mr. Christophr Wase Esqr. Beadle of Law at St Mary Hall in Oxford.

(Vol. IV, f. 162)

Wigor Septembr [i6]8o Honed Sr. I reed yrs dated Aug 27° and yu might in reason have expected a more suddene answer from any man of very ordinary humanity, but I hope yu will impute the delay to the true cause, and that I'le assure yu was noe neglect or Indisposition in the person yu treated withall, but an earnest

THE VIGORNIAN. desire to give you some p[er]fect account before I put pen to paper. I am only sorry that I am enforced at the present to returne a Cypher instead of a figure, for I find that the enquiries contained in the Printed paper require some time for resolution. And I thinke I may promise to answer them All for the diocesse of Worcestershire. I have already discoursed the Register and some other officers heere ; my next buisnesse must bee to send to the p[ar]ticular places in our diocesse where any such foundatiors are[,] to bee resolved by the Feofees in trust or other p[er]sons concerned, and assure yr selfe that my utmost endeavour shall not bee wantinge to propogate such an Ingenious designe and to give a small returne to yr Queries requested from the hand of Sr yr very [ ? ] & very humble servt. JOHN WRIGHT. I am glad to know the edition of Terence is in a forwardnesse and the Collection of a list of Gr. Lat. Grammarians but should bee much more satisfied to see the editions. [Endorsed:] For his hond frd. Mr Christopher Wase at St Mary Hall. # * * The impression that these letters give of Mr. Wright's slackness is borne out by a number of Chapter Ordinances during his time, reflecting but poorly on his efficiency. In 1686, for instance, he was accused by the Dean of " notorious negligence in the execution of his office " and, having partially admitted his fault, was duly admonished in Chapter. His chief service to the School was the establishment of an annual Speech Day. In 1672 i8s. was paid " for 12 pairs of Gloves for the Boyes declaiming in the schoole," and two years later the Master was given £2 " for the schollers for their acting a Play at Christmas, by Mr. Dean and the Chapter's Order." A.M.

€xeunt Oitmes* It is a cold and frosty morning in December; the cold, grey light of dawn filters through the darkness of a room containing a number of boys. In one dark corner a form tosses in troubled sleep. He sees before him the long procession of vivid pictures in his memory, especially those of the past few months : the day when he was a section-commander on Field Day; that damp, dark evening when he went with the Band to Hallow. Then he sees the succession of rugger matches when he played in a responsible position for his School, many times in vain, but not always. Vividly he remembers the match won by two points, when he fought valiantly for victory; then he sees the House matches, when scarred and grimy, he battled with the

December, 1935.

elephant and whale. Finally he comes to the last few days —the O.V. match, exams—and the previous day; how he had gone over to the Hall to sing the End of Term hymn— two words were imprinted on his mind: " those departing . . ." A reluctant tear steals into his eye and falls on the pillow. He will never again sing that hymn, nay any hymn, in that Hall. He sees that last House Supper; the inevitable tangerines, a friendly brawl; and the Concert. How he dwells on the lingering notes of the School Orchestra 1 How he wishes he could live it all over again! But nay, that cannot be. He pictures the morrow, the final clanging of the old bell, his bath, his breakfast, his reluctant leave-taking, and then—the station. The train puffing away from the old town where he has spent his last few years, and last of all, the cathedral tower receding in the distance. How he longs to live through those years over again 1 But hark ! What is that? It is the bell, clanging forth its chilly summons! He stirs, he wakes with a start—to his last morning at School. D.B.S.

misfortune or a Slnaer. (With apologies to Longfellow.) Upon a night of years gone by Two brothers strove to sleep between them, Long they strove to sleep between them. But below a singer singing, Singing songs of glad rejoicing, Gladly singing in the moonlight, Disturbed the peace of that dark bedroom, Disturbed the minds of the two brothers Counting sheep in all their hundreds. Then the elder of the brothers, Then the elder, bigger brother, Left his bed and cosy blankets, Left the comfort of his blankets; Strode he to the nearest window, Open'd wide the nearest window, Took a jug of nice cold water, Took a jug of icy water, Threw it at the singer singing, Singing songs of glad rejoicing, Gladly singing in the moonlight. Then the singer, soaked in water, Fled she to the nearest doorway, Fled she to a friendly doorway, There to dry herself in sorrow, Dry herself in cold and sorrow. Then the elder, bigger brother, Then the elder of the brothers, Turned back to his bed and blankets, Turned back to his nice warm blankets. Then was silence in that bedroom, Only silence in that bedroom, Nothing but the sound of snoring, But the sound of peaceful snoring, There was heard in that dark bedroom. D.B.S

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

R.R.I). Cfte Duke or fork's Camp, The fourteenth annual Duke of York's Camp was held at Southwold, Suffolk, from August 3rd—loth, in a week of real summer weather. The nature of the Camp can perhaps best be described in the words of the Camp Chief, Capt. J. G. Patterson, who said : " I feel like a B.B.C. announcer when he says ' This is London calling the British Isles.' " In this manner were we greeted at Buckingham Palace Mews : after which we made our way to Liverpool Street Station, where a special train was awaiting us. We eventually arrived in Camp at about 7.15, after a journey of rather strained conversation with the various other members of our section. There are twenty boys in each section (ten from public schools and ten from industrial centres), and twenty sections in the Camp. After supper we were given an excellent performance in the entertainment tent by members of the Camp staff, most of whom we now knew by sight. This tent seats over 600 and is fitted up with a large and well-equipped stage, as well as a "talkie" apparatus which showed us the best films of the past year. After the performance, most of the Camp made for the refreshment tent, where, amongst other things, we were served with the ever-popular Horlick's. After this we turned to our sleeping marquees, each of which held two sections, two section-leaders, and one deputy section-leader. The section-leaders are all old Camp boys. The first day, being a Sunday, was taken up with getting used to our surroundings and bathing. There was a short service in the morning and an interesting lecture on the Quetta earthquake in the evening. On the Monday we started organised Camp tournaments, which were arranged to grow more strenuous as time went on. These consisted of bench-hurdle relays, tugs-of-war, dribbling a football between bamboos, three-legged races, and many other tricky sports, all of which were timed events, and in which the whole section of twenty took part. On Tuesday afternoon our Royal host visited us, and, after watching a vigorous game of " foot and mouth disease " (a game which combines rugger, soccer, and netball, has no boundaries, and very few rules rather resembling pass-ball), he went down to bathe. In the evening he attended a " command performance " in the entertainment tent, after which he addressed the Camp. In the course of his address His Royal Highness pointed out the chief aims of the Camp—to cause fraternisation between the public school boy and the industrial boy, and to bring together four hundred boys every year, most of whom had never met before. The fraternisation, he pointed out, had proved thoroughly successful, and he hoped that many new friendships would have been formed during the week, which indeed there were. He also told of how the Camp was founded fourteen years ago, and said that he himself had only missed one Camp, and then only for medical reasons.

1051

On the following day, after spending the night under canvas, His Royal Highness watched the inter-section sports with great interest, and himself made a film of Camp activities. At lunch several eminent people were present to meet him, each of whom had to make a speech. If anyone spoke for longer than two minutes a revolver was fired, after which he was not allowed to say another word ! After lunch a photograph was taken of the entire Camp, staff, and visitors, and we all sang the Camp song, " Johnny Schmoker." In the afternoon our Royal host left us, amid cheering crowds, and then demonstrations were given to the public of the various Camp sports. The Friday was the only wet day of the week, and it rained so hard during the night that when we woke up the floors of the marquees were covered with water and all our clothes were soaking. In the morning we were entertained by sound films and other entertainments on the stage. By lunch time the rain had ceased, and all was ready for the cross-country run in the afternoon, in which the whole Camp took part. The first man home gained 400 points for his section, the second 399, and so on. The two sections in which the School was represented, " M " and " C," came in second and third respectively in the final order of sections. In the evening a final entertainment of exceptional quality was given, after which we all went down to a huge bonfire. Here we cheered the Camp Chief and other Camp celebrities who had done so much to make the Camp a real triumph of organisation, all of whom had given up their only holiday in the year for this purpose. After this an all-in pillow-fight took place, which lasted until about 1.30. The following morning we caught a special train back to Liverpool Street, where we reluctantly parted, after spending one of the best weeks of our lives. It only remains to urge anyone who wants a really good holiday, combined with a certain amount of energy, to go to the Duke of York's Camp next year, and help to make it as much of a success as it has always been. A.D.B.

D.S.D.H.P. It was the first Sunday morning of my stay in Germany and I hoped to be allowed to stay in bed until at least ten o'clock. I should no doubt have been allowed this privilege had it been solely in the hands of my very kind hosts, who are themselves always up and about before the clock strikes seven. Soon after this hour, however, my hopes were shattered by the familiar and unwelcome sounds of a brass band. It was of no use trying to go to sleep again, and remembering a like experience in the same town two years before, I proceeded to dress. At the same time, I took the opportunity of raising heart-felt thanks that in England we had no particular common " shirt " which some fanatics used as a pretext for waking honest Christians at early hours on Sunday morning. I had guessed by now that it was some section of the Hitler Movement which had roused me from my morning slumbers.

1052

THE VIGORNIAN.

My surmisings were proved correct when, being fully dressed, I crossed the road to the Bertramwiese, a large meadow used as a sports and parade ground opposite our house in the Bertramstrasse. There, as I had expected, I found about two hundred " brown-shirts " in the middle of their Sunday morning " Dienst " or parade. They were in their familiar brown uniforms, consisting of breeches of various shades of brown, large riding-boots, brown shirts with ties to match, and brown peaked caps. On the sleeve of their shirts they wore red and white striped armlets with a superimposed red " Hakenkreuz " or swastika. They had another small metal swastika as a hat-badge, and the hat also had various white and blue cord trimmings, as did the collar of the shirt. Their identification plate was also in blue and white material on the front of the collar of the shirt. On their backs they carried rather neat square brown packs, with oil-skin ground sheets in a roll round the top and sides of the pack. Altogether they looked rather like the first, amateurish kind of Boy Scouts. No doubt when they have become as experienced as Boy Scouts they will adopt " shorts " and stockings in place of their meaningless and clumsy boots and breeches. The "S.A." section of the movement, as the brown-shirts are called, consists of men ranging in age from twenty to forty-five years. In the ranks, there are unmistakably middle-aged men, many of whom can be seen to be wearing their war-decorations above their left breast pocket. Equally noticeable, however, is the fact that most of the leaders and officers in the section are young men or, as they would prefer to be called, " Old Stormers," since they are the ones who were in the movement when it was fighting for its existence. It is for this reason that they are in such high positions now. Many of them, I was told by my host, a schoolmaster, joined the movement while they were still at school, and suffered tremendously on its behalf. Almost all of these who joined the movement in its first year or two are now in very high official positions, if not in the State, within the movement itself. This section of the movement, although it would not be a hard and fast rule to say so, consists for the most part of men from the poorer class, or perhaps it would be more true to say, from the manual workers. The " S.S." section of the movement, however, seems to consist generally of younger men and, moreover, from a slightly higher class. They certainly dress in a superior fashion, since their uniform is all black and is the same in its parts as the uniform of the " S.A.," except that they wear a black coat over their black shirt. Perhaps this feeling of superiority was the cause of the sharp contentions which took place between these two sections of the movement early last year. One can well imagine the feelings of the person who joined the non-active parts of both these sections of the movement in order to be considered an ardent supporter, at the time of these contentions. In addition to these two sections there are all the different sections for the boys and girls of the country. The main one of these is the " Hitlerjugend " section, which means roughly " Hitler-youth " section. This consists of young men or youths in the real sense of the word, that is young men of about fourteen to twenty-one years.. This, too, has many sub-divisions, such as the " Marine-Hitler-

December, 1935.

jugend," which is, a« its name suggests, that section which learns al! the arts and craft* of sailing. Another section of the " Jugend " movement is the mounted section, for those youths who can ride and possess a horse. For the younger boys, there is the " Jung Volk " movement. They dress in exactly the same manner as " Boy Scouts," with black " shorts " and brown shirts with black scarves. They wear black leather belts with a metal buckle which has the inscription " Blut und Ehre " (" blood and honour ") on it. A feature of all the uniforms of these different sections is a complete absence of firearms. They mostly carry large, ostentatious sheath knives. I endeavoured in vain to find the functions of the " S.A." and " S.S." sections of the movement. No one seems to know, not even themselves, why they parade two or three times a week. The " S.S." section is supposed to be Hitler's personal bodyguard if he visits their town. On ordinary occasions, however, they act as sentries outside all State buildings and party headquarters, their main job being to direct traffic and all callers at these places. The " S.A." hold parades and often ride around the town in lorries on propaganda tours. They are used as " special constables " on occasions when they are necessary. Besides forming fours, marching, parading, holding demonstrations, and generally making a noise, they seem to serve no other purpose. The Hitlerjugend and the Jungvolk tend to develop the physical abilities of the boys, and in the Jungvolk they frequently have long walks right out into the forests. Such walks take place on Saturdays, which day, by order of Hitler, is entirely given up to the youth of the country. All day long you may see groups of Jungvolk or " Madels," tha girls' section, marching along, singing and carrying their group flag. The management and control of the Jungvolk is entirely in the hands of its leaders, who are youths about the age of eighteen or nineteen. By this method, a youth of that age may have as many as a hundred boys under him. He controls them completely and arranges for all their parades. And now about the Hitler regime in Germany. Adolf Hitler and his followers rule with a rod of iron. The Germans put his party into power in the first place because they thought they would rather have that than Communism. Hitler did an enormous amount for them; he restored their self-respect by giving them an army and an air force again. He made them a respected nation again after they had been so humbled by the peace treaty of Versailles. Then it was, when he had done so much for them, that he cajoled them into giving him complete power. Now that he has that power he, or rather his party, rules by terrorism. The average, sane-thinking Germans see that he has gone further than they wanted him to, but they dared not have voted against him when he held his election to decide whether he should become Chancellor and President. They dare say nothing now against him for fear of being heard by an ardent supporter of his and consequently getting into grave trouble over it. If you do not belong to some section of the movement, whether active or non-active, then you are " suspect " and your actions are closely watched when they hold these

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

huge propaganda gatherings. You are expected to attend and, in fact, men go round taking names to see if all those who should be are present. If you miss many of these meetings they want to know the reason why and you are immediately treated as " suspect " if you have no adequate excuses. Your children are, if old enough, all expected to be in the movement, and while I was in Germany my host was getting worried because he had just had a form to fill up. On the form he had to say whether all his children were in the Hitlerjugend, and if not, why not, and the eldest of his boys, a rather reserved youth, hating being herded together in a group, was not in it, or rather had joined and left. Since then he has had to join up again in order to screen his father. When in the movement too, you are completely dominated. Your time is the movement's or the State's time, and you are expected to surrender it willingly in the service of the State. While in Germany I saw a boy of fourteen cry like a child of two because his mother said he was to go to church on a Sunday morning instead of attending his " Dienst." He was terrified of not attending his meeting. It is destroying all home-life and doing away with all individualism. It is as if it says: " You are not an individual, but a part of the State, and as such should be ready to give up all your time for the State." Men do not leave the " S.A." or " S.S." because they know that if they did they would lose their jobs. The men and boys and girls are herded together into groups for the sake of the State and the movement. Some Germans believe that Hitler himself is not in support of such violent measures, but that it is only the party which makes him carry them out. However, be this as it may, it is the party which is getting its own way now. Is Hitler heading for war? I believe from the atmosphere which I felt while I was there in Germany that Hitler is no more anxious for war than we are, but I do believe very strongly that if there is going to be a war Hitler is going to have Germany prepared for it. Although all those " S.A." and "S.S." men carry no firearms I do believe that they could be converted into fighting units very quickly. Therefore Hitler trains the physical abilities of the youth of Germany. And lastly, the " Jews." Even while I was in Germany the Reichstag issued more severe penalties upon Jews. The Germans hate the Jews in their country for very natural reasons. The Jews are mentally far superior to the Germans. In all the forms in the schools one may find Jewish boys at the top. The Jews are the hated capitalists of the country and I venture to say that we English would resent having foreigners as all the important financiers and business-men of our country. The German has a definite cause for hating the Jews and all ardent supporters of Hitler refrain from going into shops without the sign " Deutsches Geschaft " (or " German shop ") on its window. No Jewish shops are allowed to have this sign, yet they still go on selling things, and if it is a large concern the Jews with the money retire into the background and pure Germans run the shop for them. Our papers definitely do exaggerate the extent of the actual insults and injuries which the Jews receive. It is however quite true that a lot

1053

of harsh laws are now being passed against them. So far, however, Jews who fought on behalf of Germany in the War have been left alone. Thus I saw the " Nazional Sozialistische Deutsche Arbeiter Partei " or the " German national socialist workers' party, "in complete power, with all official posts held by its followers. The Germans lie down under such domination, partly because of fear and partly because they do rather like uniforms and brass bands. On seeing the flags of most nations flying around the square outside the station I asked my German companion the reason for them. He replied: " Oh! the annual Conference of the International Association of Street-sweepers is being held here this year." In conclusion, I can say it is rather fun boarding a tram, merely for the sake of making the Nazi salute and saying " Heil Hitler ! " when you get off ! H.W.H.

"four Weeks or fldoenturc." As my train drew out of Worcester station on Friday, July 26th, the adventure was begun—an adventure into the unknown. My German friend, who had spent three weeks with me, and I were starting off for Germany, where I spent four very exciting weeks. In London we met my friend's father, who was the leader of a party of about forty German boys, who had been staying in England, and six of their English hosts. We found our reserved compartments in the boat train and at 2.45 p.m. were on our way to the coast. The boat train, and hence also the boat, was packed. The sea was as calm as a lake, and visibility was perfect. Calais was visible to the south, and when Ostend came in sight we could still see Dover far behind and Calais away to the right also. Latterly, the wind became fresh and cold, but no swell rose. Disembarking at about 8.30 p.m. we had our baggage marked, for there were no " customs " there, and soon were rumbling through the darkness over Belgian soil, finding sleeping on the wooden seats very difficult. Some moved into the corridor, others played cards. At about 1.30 a.m. we arrived at Aachen, just over the border, where the customs officers came along. They examined only two bags in each compartment, but one poor boy had to pay three shillings on half a pound of tea. The train was soon on its way again, and as dawn broke we reached Cologne. We caught a glimpse of the cathedral, and then left on our journey along the Rhine on a ledge cut out of the mountains, which disappear into the river itself. The eastern slopes are literally covered with vines, with occasionally the ruins of a castle overlooking them. After Mainz we left the Rhine and went east to Frankfurt, our destination. We arrived at 6.30 a.m., and one of the German boys, a leader in the " Hitler Youth," was met by a bodyguard. * * * I cannot relate what happened each day in those four weeks, but I want just to give a few facts about the people, their country and their lives.

1054

THE VIGORNIAN.

The first thing I experienced at Frankfurt was a German breakfast. Meals there are different from ours here. For instance, the joint is passed round and one helps oneself ! But breakfast is the lightest meal 67 the day; lunch is the biggest. Coffee is often drunk in place of tea, and no one eats bread and butter—always cakes and buns, and fruit tart, which is especially popular in Frankfurt. Supper or dinner, whichever one likes to call it, is generally a cold meal. You might wonder, now that you know something about what they eat, what sort of people the Germans are. They are not easily distinguishable from Englishmen, except for the fact that they are a little darker. Some of them have extraordinary physique. This I especially noticed at the swimming baths, which are arranged with plenty of grass for sun-bathing and a field close by fitted with the full equipment of a gymnasium, tables for table tennis, and " midget " golf courses. This shows how Germany is trying to regain a position in the sporting world. There are tennis courts in all the parks, but always hard ones, never grass. Cars are less numerous in Germany than in England. They have a smaller range, with the Mercedes, Opel and Adler as the principal makes. Lorries are few, and in any case mainly belong to the Government. Bicycles are by no means up to English standard. I think everyone is struck by one thing about German men. Of whatever class they may be, they all smoke cigars I The millionaire smokes a large Havana, for which he would not dream of paying more than one shilling ; the dustman smokes a cigar for which he pays about a halfpenny—and that a full-size one ! The country is in parts very mountainous, especially in the south, where are the Bavarian Alps, and along the Rhine. In other places, in particular in the north, it is very flat. There are no hedges anywhere—even fences and brick walls are rare. Crops are grown as they are in England. Much sugar-beet is produced in North Germany, and wheat is grown everywhere. Cows and oxen are very often used to pull ploughs and carts, but they are very slow 1

I began my return journey on August 26th with a party of eight. Quite a number of German boys and their parents saw us off, and we left by the Vienna express, which was very crowded. The main topic of conversation in the train was about the things we had bought and how we were to get them through the " Customs " at Dover. Reaching Cologne at daybreak, we travelled in daylight over the soil which we had previously traversed in darkness. We passed the frontier, and then went to the restaurant car for breakfast. As the the seats there were more comfortable we took as long a time over breakfast as possible. We embarked at Ostend at 10.30 a.m., and though there was a slight swell, none of us were ill. We reached London an hour late, and I arrived back in Worcester at 9 p.m. at the end of a very enjoyable month's holiday. R.A.

December, 1935.

Walking in 6<rmanp. Germany seems to have been popular with members of the School last holidays, for several Vigornians spent holidays there. As some of them have recorded their experiences in The Vigornian, it may be of interest if I describe a holiday which was in form completely different from theirs. I was a member of a representative party of the Universities and Public Schools Camps Club, which toured the Black Forest. The party was small, but my companions, three of whom came from Shrewsbury School, were excellent fellows, and I found it most interesting to exchange views with them. We reached the edge of the Black Forest via Ostend and Frankfurt, and then set off on our walking tour, carrying only rucsacks. Thunderstorms and very steep hills rather spoilt the first day, but when we got into good training we found our experience most thrilling. The scenery, with its mountains and forest, was wonderful, and the people in their quaint costumes, and the ringing of the cow-bells, provided an atmosphere that was quite new to us. We visited some of the loneliest districts, and conversed, though our German was, at the most, School Certificate standard, with the peasants. Everywhere we found an optimism and friendship that surprised us ; everywhere was complete unity and order. During the tour we saw Germany's finest waterfall, at Triberg, and had a glimpse of a Continental football match. We climbed the two highest mountains in the Black Forest, the Feldberg and the Belchen, and from the latter we had a wonderful view of Mont Blanc and the Rhine valley. Later we saw the glow of a marvellous sunset as it tinged the distant snow-slopes of the Alps, and then again we saw them gleaming in the brilliance of an early-morning sun. On our return journey we walked as far as Freiburg, where we saw famous motorists practising for the German Mountain Race, and then travelled by train to Cologne, breaking our journey at Heidelberg and Frankfurt. From Cologne we came down the Rhine through Holland to Rotterdam by steamer, and then we crossed to Gravesend. We made many friends during our short stay in Germany, and I think we all vowed that we will soon visit that wonderful country again. A.S.Y.

Satottt. Lower V. Bird, J. C. Hostel. Davies, R. G. Day Boys. Upper IV. Fourdrinier, P. D. Castle House. Garnett, J. M. Hostel. Phillips, J. C. Day Boys. Shovelton, P. L. W. Hostel. Stevens, R. W. Day Boys. Walters, R. S. L. School House. Middle IV. Roberts, A. Day Boys.

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

Lower IV. Bridgeman, M. O. F. Hostel. Flay, K. S. Day Boys. Myers, C. A. Day Boys. Rich, J. M. Day Boys. Shelton, D. L. Castle House. Trow, F. G. School House. Lower School. Bailey, A. W. R. Day Boys. Beckley, V. R. S. Castle House. Clinch, J. G. Day Boys. Dexter, J. L. Day Boys. Dowse, M. V. H. Day Boys. Healey P. H. Day Boys. Lewis, L. W. Day Boys. Malsom, G. H. Day Boys. Ranford, G. G. Day Boys. Shephard, G. D. Day Boys. Thomas, D. L. T. Day Boys.

1055

Lower V. Eddy, H. G. Day Boys Glew, G. W. L. School House. Cadet O.T.C. Langley, D. H. Hostel. 2nd XV Rugger 1934. 2nd IV Rowing 1935. ist IV Fives 1935. C.Q.M.S. O.T.C. Mann, D. R. Day Boys, ist XV Rugger 1934. 2nd XI Cricket 1934. Spooner, A. R. Day Boys. Upper IV. Powell, D. K. R. School House. Cadet O.T.C. Ravenhill, P. Castle House. Cadet O.T.C. Lower IV. Hunt, J. L. Day Boys.

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

Valcte. Classical VI. Lister, J. F.

Day Boys.

Sergt. O.T.C.

Cert. " A

Thomas, R. L. Day Boys. School Monitor, ist XI Cricket 1934. Captain of Cricket 1935. 2nd XV Rugger 1934. Captain of Fives 1935. Under-Officer O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1933. Librarian. Editor of The Vigornian. King's Scholar. Modern VI. Garrett, R. A. Castle House, ist XV Rugger 1934. ist IV Rowing 1935. 2nd IV Fives 1935. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1935. MacLeod, M. E. G. Castle House. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1935. Penny, A. M. Day Boys. 2nd XV Rugger 1934. Rawlings, C. E. Castle House, ist XV Rugger 1934. Cadet O.T.C. Walker, D. W. Day Boys. 2nd XV Rugger 1934. Cadet O.T.C. Warren, J. L. Day Boys. 2nd XI Cricket 1934-5. Librarian. Secretary of Chess 1931-2-3-4-5. Upper V. Hoggard, J. W. Castle House. Cadet O.T.C. Hartwright, C. G. Day Boys. Pressdee, J. S. Day Boys. 2nd XV Rugger 1934. 2nd XI Cricket 1932-3. ist XI Cricket 1934. Secretary of Cricket 1935. ist IV Fives 1935. Rice-Jones. Castle House. Cadet O.T.C. Spencer, W. G. Hostel. 2nd XV Rugger 1933. ist XV Rugger 1934. ist XI Cricket 1932-3-4-5. Sergt. O.T.C. Cert. " A " 1934. Stevens, P. J. Day Boys. Whitehead, C. D. A. School House. 2nd XV Rugger 1934. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert " A " 1935.

Judging by the enthusiasm which is annually displayed during the House cricket, rugger, fives and even shooting matches, competitions seem to be a sound method of increasing the numbers of interested adherents to other School games, such as chess, table tennis—which might be arranged between Houses—and even the rather unorthodox game of rounders, which is popular in the playground during the Summer term. Rugger and rowing House matches are confined to seniors or senior-juniors; cricket and fives to seniors. Why not have junior cricket and fives matches also? If chess and table tennis were adopted, they might enable more people to represent their Houses, and whilst it would be impracticable to have more than one House competition a year in rugger, cricket, rowing, and hockey, if the latter is adopted, fives presents no difficulties. More people who might make good players could well be encouraged to play, especially among the juniors, and inter-House chess matches might produce new enthusiasts, of whom there are very few. Trusting that this suggestion will be considered, I am, yours, etc., D.S.

* * To the Editors of " The Vigornian." Dear Sirs, On numerous occasions this term I have noticed at morning prayers that the Headmaster's bell has been so annoying as not to function properly. The Headmaster applies pressure to it, but it obstinately refuses to ring clearly. As it is unlikely that the bell has gone " on strike " or that a practical joker has been at work, I suggest that it should be replaced by another more reliable one. Since the age of the

THE VIGORNIAN.

1056

bell and the time it has been in College Hall are probably unknown, I should hardly think that any traditions would be broken by its removal. I am, yours, etc., PRECISION. [While agreeing with Precision's suggestion, we wonder whether the bell has been used for " sound effects " during the School cinema shows.—EDS. VIG. ]

To the Editors of " The Vigomian." Dear Sirs, I make no attempt to conceal the fact; I am a dreamer, a romantic, a poet (?) I can see something beautiful in almost everything. Consequently, as I sat on the wooden bench in our changing room, my feet immersed in excruciating lovely hot water, attempting to remove from my legs a goodly portion of the mud of " those misty Severn banks," I dreamed, I imagined, as the gloriously hot fluid streamed continuously into my bath, a perpetual, gurgling, little hot spring, which found its way by some unobtrusive course into our " hot " taps. Alas ! my imaginations were indeed fanciful. One evening my little hot spring dried up, or rather remained cold. This happened frequently and so I spoke to one of the acolytes, who, I had thought, merely helped the dear little thing on its perilous course, and then were all my romantic imaginations shattered by hard brutal facts. He showed me a large, very unromantic-looking, cylindrical tank. " That," he said, " supplies two houses with hot water, and if the tap is left running it runs out and you get cold instead of hot awter." What, may I ask, is to become of the literary and poetic inspirations of the School? Where are the successors of Samuel Butler coming from if lack of hot water is allowed to show young pillars of literature that their inspirations are entirely fanciful? And what is perhaps more to the point, what is to happen to the mud we acquire playing rugger? My " Ode to the gurgling hot water Course " will not be published, but I hope you will allow this to be, if only in the interests of my fellow-sufferers. I am, yours, etc., A DAY BOY. * * *

December, 1935. To the Editors of " The Vigomian."

Dear Sirs, May we, through the medium of your columns, convey our sincere thanks to Mr. Strong and Mr. Bentley for their untiring efforts in coaching the third game this term. Their valuable instruction has changed our game from an unorganised rabble into skilful rugger. The remainder of the third game will, without doubt, join us in our appreciation of their services. We are, yours, etc., R.L.L. A.J.K. P.L.B.H. To the Editors of " The Vigornian." Dear Sirs, I should like to make clear to those who would like to take up carpentry next term the improvements which are being contemplated. At present there are seven boys taking it, of whom five intend to contfnue. If there are seven or eight next term, then the fees can be reduced to approximately twelve shillings. Mr. Nicholls, who is a carpenter by trade, will be able to come on two evenings a week instead of only one, as at present. Some new tools can also be added. Though it is to be admitted that the tools are at present rather in adequate and in poor condition, yet if more keenness is shown by an increase in the numbers of those who take it, then the improvements will be made. I am, Sirs, yours, etc., D.W.G.

Contemporaries. We acknowledge the following contemporaries, with apologies for any accidental omissions:—The Felstedian (2), St. Michael's Chronicle, The Cheltonian (3), The Monktonian, The Wulfrunian, The Bromsgrovian, The King Edward's School Chronicle, The Petriburgian, The Wolvernian, The Monmothian (2), The Tonbridgian, The Portcullis (Warwick School), The Limit (Loughborough College), The St. Edward's School Chronicle (2), The Toilers of the Deep, The Oceanian, The Portcullis.

December, 1935.

THE VIGORNIAN.

J057

UI.C.K.S. 6ame$ fund. Year ending November 3Oth, 1935.

DR. Dr. Balance Dec. 3rd, 1934 Rowing. Eton College Boat House Cath. Boating Station—Repairs, etc. ... Hereford Clifton Exs. Marlow— Entrance Fee ... Insurance—Boat House, etc. Cricket and Football. Dean and Chapter Ecclesiastical Commissioners ... Lilly white, Frowd & Co. Relf Brothers Johns—Net Repairs, etc. Gunn & Moore Bryan Surridge Needham— I. C. I. Fertilizer Thornton, Hunt, Garret—Repairs Bailey & Turner—Petrol, Oil, Repairs Other Expenditure. Rates, etc. Income Tax, etc. ... Bath Attendant Printing, etc. Bakers Wards Ranford Hopkins Summers— Haulage Wages Sports Prizes Smith—Repair to Boats Insurance on Roller Cheque Book G.W.R. Sleepers

CR. ...

£ s. d. 12 6 6

...

32 I

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3 6 6 33 6 6

...

£ s. d. 3>S '4 9 70 o o 2 0 0 18 12 o

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Games Subscriptions From School Shop Miss Isaac (Donation) Sundries—Hire of Ground, etc.

406 6 9

Dr. Balance at Bank Nov. 3oth, 1935

ii 16 9

6 o o S II 12 9 i 8 9

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(Signed)

C. CREIGHTON, Headmaster. F. B. THOMAS.