THE VIGORNIAN THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE TA MEN AIAAKTA MAN6A1SQ, TA d'ETPETA ZHTfi, TA A'BTKTA IIAPA QEfiy
No. 147. Vol. XIII.
APRIL, 1937.
CONTENTS. Editorial School Calendar School Officers School Notes School Certificates O.V. News O.V. Club Valete Salvete
O.T.C. Notes
Band Notes Scout Notes
Oxford Letter
Contemporaries
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HITH2AMHX.
Price Is. EDITORIAL.
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As we hinted last term, we have, in starting a new Volume, made certain changes in the outward form of the Vigornian, which have been approved by the Committee of the O.V. Club and which we hope will meet with general approval. The slight reduction in size has, we believe, reduced it to more convenient proportions without detracting from its distinctiveness, and the new cover we hope will be thought an improvement. The coat of arms has been drawn by Mrs. Alec Macdonald to whom we offer our grateful thanks.
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" O all ye floods, bless ye the Lord." Having chanted this verse of the Benedicite all through the Lenten season, it would seem a trifle inconsistent to complain about the inundations with which we have been visited. Far be it from us to question the psalmist's wisdom, but we must admit that we fail to see how floods can bless anybody. Certainly, nobody has blessed them. Not only have they caused a national disaster in America, and grave alarm in the Fen district, but, worst crime of all, they have kept us off our playing fields. The cross-country race,ths_" RiHoms " Rugger matches, the " Standard " Snorts7~hockey, and even Field Day have suffered as a result of the heavy rains. The rowers, one might have thought, would have rejoiced at this abundance of their element, but the surfeit seems to have proved too great even for them, and so far no crew -has been able to venture on the river, so swollen has it been.
THE VIGORNIAN. Those who have spent the term pouring out maledictions against the pluvial onslaughts ought, however, to remember that the floods which have engulfed our playing fields are to some extent a blessing in disguise. They are, for instance, supposed to be good for the ground, but, as Gladstone said in 1886, one can have too much of a good thing. Furthermore, some sage has pointed out to us that were it not for the fact that the land on the west side of the river is so subject to submersion, it might well by now be in the merciless hands of the suburban builder, covered with redroofed " desirable freehold residences." Were it not, in fact, for the floods, we should be without our " green belt," which of course, in the words of the old Chinese proverb, just goes to prove that every cloud has a silver lining . . . Mention of houses and building reminds us of a loss which will, we feel, touch the very heartstrings of all Vigomians, both past and present. The Elephant House, that venerable building, which has witnessed so many generations of the School as they have pufied on their unwilling way towards the second Locks is —alas!—no more. Many have been the attempts to discover what grim secret lay behind those massive walls, behind those sinister corrugated doors. Now, we shall never know, for it has carried its secret with it to the grave. Even the manner of its end was strange. One day it stood there, for all the world like some gaunt sentinel watching over Sabrina's peaceful stream. Then, when next we passed that way, scarcely the foundations stood. One could not, perhaps, acclaim it as an architectural masterpiece, but, like the Crystal Palace, it was one of those gross monstrosities which have a compelling attraction of their own. Sic transit gloria mundi, and all that, what ? No further subject for discourse having occurred to our brilliant intellects, we would therefore pass a unanimous vote of censure on floods, and allow this flood of verbiage to subside, leaving our readers to enjoy the fruitful sediment which is the rest of the Vigarnian.
SCHOOL CALENDAR.
Wed., Jan. Thurs., Sun.,
17.—Boarders return. 18.—School meets at 9 a.m. 21.—School Celebration of Holy Communion. Wed., Feb. 10.—Ash Wednesday. Service in Cathedral. Wed., 17.—Cross-Country Races. Thurs., „ 18.—1st of Lenten Addresses in Cathedral by Dom Bernard Clements. Sat., 20.—Certificate " A " Practical Examination. Mon., „ 22.—Start of House " Belows " Rugger Matches. Tues., Mar. 9.—Certificate "A" Theoretical Examination. Fri., 19.—Boxing Finals.
Fri., Sun., Fri.. Sat., Mon., Mon., Tues.,
April, 1937
Mar. 25.—Good Friday. Service in Cathedral. „ 27.—Easter Sunday. Service in Cathedral. April 2.T „ 3. VFinals of School Sports. ,, 5.J S.—School Play—" Richard of Bordeaux." „ 6.—Exeunt Omnes.
SCHOOL OFFICERS. Captain of the School Captain of Rugger Secretary of RuggerCaptain of Boats Secretary of Boats Captain of Hockey Captain of Fives Captain of Shooting Secretary of Shooting Captain of Gym.
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Sports Secretaries -
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Captains of Houses :— School House Castle House Hostel Chappel's House Creighton's House -
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J. F. Lavender. J. F. Lavender. A. Fairgrieve. J. F. Lavender. A. Fairgrieve. A. D. Bolland. C. M. Lavender. A. Fairgrieve. E. M. F. Bearcroft. S. N. Hackwood. J. F. Lavender. A. D. Bolland. B. S. Eckersley.
J. F. Lavender. B. S. Eckersley. S. O. A. M. Lock. R. Anstey. F. J. Curtis.
School Monitors—J. F. Lavender, A. D. Bolland, B. S. Eckersley, R. Anstey, D. B. Steward, W. N. Bryer, S. O. A. M. Lock, F. J. Curtis. Editors of The Vigorman—J. F. Lavender, B. S. Eckersley, P. T. Halliley. Librarians—B. S. Eckersley, R. Anstey, S. O. A. M. Lock, J. Sutton, D. E. Briggs.
SCHOOL NOTES. We heartily congratulate J. Sutton on being awarded a Scholarship at the Imperial College of Science and Technology. * • • Mr. Creighton, after spending some months in Oxford, has, we are glad to know, come to live at Claines, and has paid us several brief visits this term. He has now gone abroad on a Hellenic Travellers' Cruise and will be away all next term. Mr. Creighton has set a notable example in presenting some seven acres of land in front of hi* house to the
April, 1937
THE VIGORNIAN.
Claines Parish Council for use as a playing field under the King George V Memorial Scheme. The Sunday Times of February 28th contained a large photograph of the interior of College Hal), specially taken by Mr. J. Dixon-Scott, in the series entitled " England's Ancient Grammar Schools;" it was accompanied by a short article giving an epitome of the history of the School. The new Geography Room was able to perform a small but useful public service this term. Mr. L. Tomlin, who was lecturing to the Worcestershire Archaeological Society on " The Welsh Marches," asked, through the Secretary, for the loan of a largescale map of Wales. Not happening to possess such a thing, our Geography Department, in conjunction with the Art Firm upstairs, executed one to the lecturer's specification, which was used throughout the lecture and was publicly commended by the President of the Society. Our perennial complaint about the weather and the floods is really justified this year, for it has been one of the wettest within living memory. Very little Rugger has been possible on our own ground, and at the time of going to press the chances of Sports this term are very small.
in the window of the S.E. Transept, we are particularly glad to note the restoration of the sadly decayed monument to our famous Master, Henry Bright, near the North Door. The work which includes the correct tincturing of the coat of arms, has been admirably carried out by Miss E. Matley Moore at the expense of Mr. Allan Bright, F.S.A., of Colwall, a descendant of Henry Bright. By kind permission of the Headmaster, the School assembled in College Hall on the morning of Boat Race Day to listen to the broadcast commentary on the race. Oxford's victory was greeted with loud applause. Many generations of pre-war O.V. will learn with regret of the death, on March 4, of Miss Ophelia Browne, who, with her mother Mrs. Walter Browne, was for so many years our neighbour at No. 9 College Green. She was the author of a number of successful novels, the first of which was written at the encouragement of her Headmistress, Miss Alice Ottley, and in 1933 she edited the book which celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of the foundation of her old school. For many years past she had lived at Wotton-under-Edge.
SCHOOL
CERTIFICATES.
A Confirmation Service was held in the Cathedral on Monday, March 22nd, by the Lord Bishop of Worcester. Twenty-nine candidates from the School were confirmed.
The following passed the Oxford and Cambridge School Certificate Examination held in December. 1936 :— H. A. Bubb ; H. C. Cox ; R. M. Dobson ; J. H. Trepe.
Instead of our usual Thursday afternoon Lenten services, senior members of the School have been attending a series of addresses in the Cathedral by the Rev. Dom Bernard Clements, O.S.B.
The following already hold certificates, and passed with credit in additional subjects :— K. F. Inight; A. C. White.
On February 24th five members of the Modern Sixth were taken to Cambridge by Mr. Macdonald and Mr. Franklin to see a performance of Goethe's Urfaust by the University German Society in the A.D.C. Theatre. The thanks of the School are due to Mr. H. W. Adams, R.B.A., R.C.A., R.B.C., for the gift of the silver birch trees which have recently been planted in various parts of the School grounds. Mr. Adams is a Worcestershire artist, particularly well known for his landscapes, and one of his pictures, bought by the nation, hangs in the Tate Gallery. The trees are from his estate in the Teme Valley. Among the various improvements that have been made in the Cathedra] lately, which include the transformation of the N.E. Transept into a War Memorial Chapel, and the insertion of some fine modern glass
HOUSE NOTES. SCHOOL HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : J. F. Lavender, A. D. Holland, J. Sutton, D. B. Steward, M. B. Davies. Our chief interest this term has been in the various competitions which always make the Easter term so full and especially in the " Belows." The House team eventually finished up third, having distinguished itself by'drawing with Chappel's and defeating Castle House, though it spoilt a good record by unexpectedly losing to Hostel. The team contained plenty of good material for future senior House teams, the most promising players being Pickford, Frearson, a_nd Trapc. We were well represented in the Bpxirig Competition, losing to Castle House by one point. We take this opportunity of congratulating Fairgrieve and Pickford,
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who won the Heavyweight and list, divisions respectively. We have high hopes of retaining the Fives Cup, as we have three members of the 1st IV, but it will be by no means the walk-over it was last year, and we shall undoubtedly have to fight for it. At half-term the classroom went gay and indulged in the luxury of a " brew " on the grand scale. Rumour has it that the entire Staff were invited and nearly came. Four members of the house are going to attend the Army School of Physical Training Course during the holidays. Those who have already attended the Course will assure them that it is hard to find a pleasanter way of spending ten days. Four members of the House are also going up to London to see the Coronation. We trust that they too will enjoy themselves and return safely. This year we are enjoying the novel experience of staying at School for Easter, and are finding it a pleasant change. We break up the following week, and it only remains for us to wish good holidays to all the members of the House.
CASTLE HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : B. S. Eckersley, S. N. Hackwood, A. J. Bendall, E. M. F. Bearcroft. At the end of last term we enjoyed an entertaining evening from the newly-formed Junior House Dramatic Society. They presented two short sketches, the first an extract from " 1066 and All That " and the second a thriller entitled " The Ghost of Jerry Bundler." Our chief success this term was in the boxing competition, in which we retained the cup after a keen struggle with School House. In the " Belows " we were not quite so successful, but under the circumstances the team gave as good a display as could be expected of it. In the cross-country several members of the house ran very well, notably E. M. F. Bearcroft who was unlucky to finish second to Hayes. We congratulate Folley in getting a place in the 1st IV Fives and Orchard on getting one in the 2nd IV. We welcome Ellison into the house and wish A. J. Bendall an enjoyable time at the P.T. Camp. Finally we would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Bentley for all their kindnesses to us throughout the term.
HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : S. M. Lock, J. D. H. Saver, F. E. V. Cant. This term we welcomed five new-comers to the House, all of whom have shown promise in some branch of athletics during the term. With the loss of Rathbone, at the end of last term, Lock took his place
April, 1937
as Captain of the House, and we would like to congratulate Sayer and Cant on their appointment as House Monitors. In the Cross-Country we came 4th in the Senior and 3rd in the Junior, Poths (15), Lock (19), Bird (22), Jones, L. C. (23) did well in the Senior, and Pennington, Shovelton, Allchurch, Jones, M.C., in the Junior. We were only able to snatch one " Belows " practice, and without Cant it was rather a scratch team which played the first two matches. However, with a little rearrangement we improved enough to beat School House 6—3 in the best match we played, Richardson and Jones, M.C. each scoring a good try. In the last two matches the team played very well together, and Brown, Richardson and Kemp are all promising outside the scrum. The new organisation of the House Boxing Competition did not agree very happily with the composition of the House team, as some of our best boxers were eliminated from the Competition by Bird, who has proved a most able captain of House boxing, and we must congratulate him on the high standard of training which he has attained, and on winning his weight. We may console ourselves with the knowledge that all our bouts were hard fought, especially in the case of Garnett and Brown. Considerably more members of the House took up Hockey this season and we were represented in the 1st XI by Garnett, Poths and Lock; We entered three candidates for Certificate " A " this term, whom we congratulate on their success in Part I. Mr. Burnett's son David is perhaps the most prominent figure in the Green, and if we are to judge by his voice and his vigorous kicking, he seems likely to fulfil his father's prophecy of " a tough second-row forward." There is one new member of the House whom we have not mentioned so far: Matron's puppy, Sam, although defying accurate description, has nevertheless endeared himself to the whole School.
CHAPPEL'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : R. Anstey, W. N. Bryer, P. Neale. As last term's experiment 'of dividing the Day Boys into two houses was completely successful, it was carried further this term, appointing separate Captains. They have now only two things in common, the same changing room and the same Housemaster. The House came second in the inter-house rugger matches last term. We were only beaten by School House, the winners, in a very hard game. In the Cross-Country races this term, we won the junior team race, although the individual honours did not come to us. We were second in the senior team
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April, 1937
VIGORNIAN.
race. A. G. Green, W. J. Checketts and A. Ewins ran very well in the junior race, and W. N. Bryer was our best performer in the senior event. We had great hopes of winning the " Belows " cup this term, but these were shattered when Price, our best forward, was absent on the day when we had to play Creighton's House, our chief rivals. We were only able to draw with them. As we had also only drawn with School House, whom Creighton's had beaten, we were one point behind them.
O.V. NEWS. B. Bagenal (1932-36) passed London Matriculation in January.
In the boxing competition, Chappel's House was third, thanks to very good boxing by Nicholls, who beat both his opponents with comparative ease, and to very plucky boxing by S. B. Harris.
W. D. Battershill (1907-14) has been appointed to the important and responsible post of Chief Secretary to the Government of Palestine, in succession to Mr. J. H. Hall, whose appointment to be British Resident for the Zanzibar Protectorate was recently announced. He began his colonial career as a cadet in Ceylon sixteen years ago, and remained there until 1932, by which time he had often been Acting Colonial Secretary. In 1934 he was appointed Colonial Secretary, Cyprus, and in 1935 was Acting Governor of the island.
Many more members of Chappel's House have been playing fives this term than last; Hinds, who has been captain of the second four, and Nicholls, who has played for both the first and the second fours this term, should do well in the inter-house competition.
T. E. D. Beavan (1923-26) has been awarded a Gold Medal as a result of an examination in Clinical Medicine, at Birmingham University.
The number of members of Chappel's House in the O.T.C. has risen by four this term. Both Hinds and R. Anstey passed Certificate " A " and have been promoted to the rank of Lance-Corporal. W. N. Bryer and Nicholls were successful in the practical part of the examination.
The Rev. C. T. Dimont (1883-91) Chancellor of Salisbury Cathedral, and Principal of Salisbury Theological College, has retired, and a presentation was made to him on February 26th.
We hope to see Neale back next term, as we shall need him very much in the cricket. He has been recovering from a serious operation.
K. B. Dyer (1932-6) is articled to the Town Clerk of Exeter. R. I. Graham (1923-26) solicitor, of Ludlow, has been appointed an assistant solicitor in the legal department at Scotland Yard.
CREIGHTON HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : F. J. Curtis, A. R. Pettigrew. This term saw the fulfilment of the division of Day boys into two houses. Last term we were separate houses for games purposes only, now both Creighton's House and Chappel's House are independent. We have gained two cups this term. The first is the cup given for the best team of five in the Open Cross Country Race. We congratulate Hayes on winning and those who were instrumental in gaining the Cup for the House. In the Junior Cross Country we came second to Chappel's House also having the winner of the Race, C. F. Bryer, in our five.
E. J. Granger (1924-27) has been in the Motor Trade for some time, and is an Associate Member of the Institute of the Motor Trade. He now owns the Yew Tree Service Station, Pitt, near Winchester, and would be very glad to see any O.V. who happened to be passing his way. * * * E. Hamilton (1919-22) now owns the Yellow House Apiary, Yellow House Lane, Southport, doing business in honey, and home-made jams and marmalades.
E. W. Sankey (1933-36) is articled to Messrs. Lewis Morgan and Co., solicitors. He finds his work very interesting, especially that dealing with the Courts. Our second cup is the " Below's " Cup ; this we won from Chappel's House by one point. Our team, He is also studying at the University of Wales, Cardiff. captained by Pressdee, was H. J. Checketts, Walker, James, C. F. Bryer, Pressdee, Hoddinott, Bubb, Styles and Phillips. We congratulate the team on its success The Rev. G. H. Sharpe (1907-15) who since 1929 and hope this team will make an equally good rugger has been Vicar of Bensham, Gateshead, in the diocese team next year. The Boxing Competition resulted of Durham, has been presented by the Dean and Chapter in the House getting only one point, F. J. Curtis being of Worcester to the Vicarage of Lindridge, Tenbury. in the final of his weight. James, boxing under eleven Before going to Bensham he had been for a year Vicar stone, won his first fight but lost his second. of St. Barnabas, Worcester, and among his curacies before that had been that of St. Martin's, London Road. At present there are only three rowers in the house. Members of the House are asked to consider taking up rowing. The Rt. Rev. P. N. W. Strong (1909-17), who was recently installed in his cathedral church at Dogura,
THE VIGORNIAN. New Guinea, has cabled home an urgent message for more helpers in the work of evangelising his vast diocese. Funds are very badly needed, and it should not be out of place to appeal to readers of the Vigornian to support an O.V. in his responsible and difficult position. The Hon. Secretary and Treasurer of the Worcester Branch of the New Guinea Association, who will gladly receive and acknowledge subscriptions, large or small, is Mrs. Alec Macdonald, 8 Lansdowne Crescent, Worcester. A. S. Yarnold (1929-36) has accepted a post with Messrs. Pickford, the carriers, at their Birmingham depot. He is in charge of the " Goods on Hand " department, which deals with packages that have been insufficiently addressed or packed, or for some other reason cannot be delivered. *
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OBITUARY. CHARLES ROBERT DAVIES. 1871—1936. On the last day of last year, the death took place in London of Mr. C. R. Davies, O.B.E., who was educated at the King's School from 1883 to 1889. After graduating at Oxford and qualifying as a solicitor, he went out to Australia, where he was prominent in local affairs, held office for three years as Mayor of Boulder City, and on one occasion stood as candidate for the Senate, but was defeated by a Labour opponent. He served in the South African War, and during the Great War he commanded a battalion of Territorials with which he saw active service in Gallipoli, Mesopotamia, Egypt and finally in France. After the war he settled in England and practised in London. On the death of his uncle, Mr. E. P. Davies, he was appointed a director of the Smithbrush Company, of Pheasant Street, Worcester, and at the time of his death was its chairman. In London he was for several years Vice-President of Oxford House, Bethnal Green.
ENGAGEMENTS. POWELL—FOLEY. i The engagement is announced between the Rev. V. C. Powell (1913-22), Vicar of St. Francis's, Dudley, eldest son of the Rev. C. T. Powell and Mrs. Powell, of St. John's, Worcester, and Millicent, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. Foley, of Dudley. CARTER—MARTIN. The engagement is announced between Russel Sidney Carter (1925-31), and Imogen Martin, of Woodchester. SEABRIGHT—BROOKING. John E. Seabright (1915-20), second son of Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Seabright of 77 Malvern Road, Worcester, to Alice Gertrude Brooking, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs H. M. Brooking of Droitwich Spa.
April, 1937
MARRIAGES. ECKERSLEY—NoTT. On March 1st,- at Malvern Priory, Ronald S. Eckersley (1921—27), elder son of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Eckersley, to Patience, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Nott of Malvern. HOOPER—JONES. On the 17th December, 1936, at Dhelakhat Tea Estate, Assam, E. Derek Hooper (1918-24) son of Capt. E. J. and Mrs. Hooper, Shillong, to Gwladys Mary, daughter of the late E. E. Jones and Mrs. Jones of Towyn, N. Wales. « * » BIRTH. HARRISON. On January 17th, at Parkfield, Hallow, nr. Worcester, to Margaret, wife of A. Roy Harrison (1920-23)—a daughter. OLD VIGORNIANS' CLUB. President : Lt.-Col. Albert Webb. Committee : T. Bates. J. E. B. Littlebury. J. B. Cavenagh. A. Macdonald. A. R. Harrison. S. D. Strong (Hon. Sec.). H. H. Holmes. W. H. Webb. F. G. Jones (Hon. Auditor). The Headmaster. Secretary : H. E. Nicholls (King's School), 7 College Green, Worcester. * * * The Annual O.V. Day and Dinner will be held on Saturday, July 10th, following the O.T.C. Inspection and Speech Day on July 9th.
GOLF CUP. The Annual Old Vigornians' Golf Match will be held on Saturday, July 10th, at the Worcester Golf and Country Club's links at Boughton Park. Play will be over 18 holes. Medal Play under Handicap. Cards to be returned by 5 p.m. All entries together with 2/6 Entrance Fee to be sent not later than July 3rd to :— H. H. Holmes, The Cottage, Worcester Road, Ombersley, Worcs. * * * The Committee have made arrangements whereby the O.V. Club colours mentioned in the list below may be obtained from Messrs. Glenns, 70 Broad Street, Worcester, at the following prices :— £ s. d. Woollen Scarves 10 6 Blazers ( i n Woven Serge) ... 2 2 0 Sweaters (Cable Stitch) . . . 1 5 0 Sweaters (Plain Stitch) ... 1 1 0 Silk Squares 12 6 Silk Ties (Uncrushable) . . . 4 6 Irish Poplin Ties 4 6 Straw Hat Bands 3 0 Cuff Links 2 6 Plus Postage in each case. When ordering Blazers or Sweaters please give chest measurements. For Ties please state whether silk or poplin is required.
April, 1937
THE VIGORNIAN.
SECRETARY O.V. CLUB. RUGGER NOTES. Kindly Note Change of Address. Rugger this term has been considerably handicapped by bad weather and resulting floods, and we must take H. E. Nicholls, | this opportunity of expressing our gratitude to the Secretary O.V. Club, Worcester R.F.C. for their kindness in allowing us to King's School Buildings, use the Perdisv\ell ground on so many occasions. With 7 College Green, this assistance it was found possible to play one Colts Worcester. match and also to play off the " Belows." A Colts He will be glad to receive subscriptions due. match with Bloxham School unfortunately had to be Can any O.V. kindly supply him with the scratched. Addresses of:— Bird, M. Jeans, G. M. SCHOOL COLTS v. WARWICK COLTS. Brett, A. H. Jackson, G. N. Bradley, D. R. Ludlow, P. H. This match was played at Perdiswell Park on Feb. Bowstead, Lt. T. C. Marshall, A. T. 10th. The School team were on the whole slightly Burden, H. W. Matthews, Capt. A. K. smaller than their opponents and did well to Jiold them Beauchamp, H. K. P. Matheson, D. L. to three points in an extremely hard and well-fought Chaytor, Pay Lt.-Com. C. J. Pennington, J. game. The School's try was scored by L. C. Jones, Cawker, A. L. G. Porter, C. E. and the most promising players appeared to be—Mann, Chignell, Rev. W. R. Payne, C. E. Caldicott, Jones, Rice-Jones, Shelton and Pickford. Couzens, D. A. Raymond, H. Result: School 3 pts., Warwick 6 pts. Cockburn, C. R. Smith, O. M. Davies, A. E. Tester, C. H. Team :—G. W. Mann ; P. L. W. Shovelton, H. RiceDavies, Capt. H. M. Tyler, W. M. Jones ; T. W. Checketts ; P. D. Caldicott; A. J. KirkTate, J. M. Greenhill, M. I. G. wood ; L. C. Jones; R. F. Styles ; D. C. Bendall ; Humphreys, Pay L.-C., A. F. Worster, Rev. P. W. A. W. Pickford ; M. H. Good ; P. F. Painter ; D. L. Shelton ; S. M. C. Jones ; D. J. Harris. VALETE. The following were prevented by injury from playing : Modern VI. J. Frearson ; C. F. Bryer ; J. G. Ranford. Briggs, D. (1931-36). Chappel's House. Cowper, J. E. (1930-36). Creighton's House. Cadet, O.T.C. The " Belows " this year have shown a remarkably Rathbone, L. (1932-36). Hostel. School Monitor. 2nd XV Rugger, 1934; 1st XV Rugger, 1935; Sec- level standard in the houses, and some surprising results Day Boys maintained the retary of Rugger, 1936. 2nd IV Rowing, 1936. Shooting have been recorded. VIII, 1935 ; Captain of Shooting, 1936. Captain of superiority which they have shown for the last few years, and their " internal " contest ended, fittingly, Gym., C.S.M., O.T.C. Cert "A," 1935. in a draw. Lower V. Wootten, E. W. (1933-36). Creighton's House. Result :— 2nd XV Rugger, 1935-6. Cadet, O.T.C. Cert " A," Creighton's House 7 points. 1936. Chappel's House ... ... 6 ,, Upper IV. School House... ... ... 3 „ Napier, G. L. G. (1934-36). Hostel. Cadet, O.T.C. Castle House \ , Hostel j •* " SALVETE. The winning team was :— Lower V. S. C. James ; H. J. Checketts ; T. W. Walker ; C. F. Hulme, P. E. School House. . Bryer; J. H. Pressdee (Capt.) ; J. C. Phillips ; R. F. Kemp, S. E. Hostel. Styles ; H. A. Bubb ; P. Hoddinott. Upper IV. Brown, J. C. H. Hostel. Our thanks are due to Mr. Meade-King for his Curtis, D. M. Chappel's House. painstaking coaching of the Colts, and also to those members of the School who have assisted him. Richardson, J. H. Hostel. Sampson, C. R. School House. J. F. L. Middle IV. A. F. Beckett, R. W. Creighton's House. Dinsdale, T. K. School House. Lower IV. ROWING NOTES. Pennington, D. R. Hostel. Ellison, S. D. Castle House. This term the weather has been even more unkind Lower School. to us than usual, and owing to the continual floods we Dinsdale, E. P. School House. have not once been able to get a boat on the river. We Fowler, F. G. Creighton's Hous*. can only hope that the IV will settle down rapidly next Wells, J. School House. term ; it should do so, for we hope to have three members Williams, E. I. Hostel. of last year's crew available. There are also plenty of promising, if inexperienced, rowers to form the 2nd IV.
THE VIGORNIAN. We are pleased to note that a fixed tub has been purchased. This should have an extremely beneficial effect in eradicating individual faults, and should aid us considerably in following the example of Oxford and putting an end to our succession of defeats. J. F. L. A. F.
FIVES NOTES. Fives in general this term has been very lucky, thanks to the river, which by its floods has to some extent prevented rowing and hockey. The weather at first showed signs of being perverse, but it has not really hindered us greatly. We were, however, unlucky in all our matches, losing to Hereford 86—90, and to Bromsgrove 28—90 and in the return match 34—88. The 2nd IV also lost to Hereford 86—90 and to Bromsgrove 35—90. The Grammar School and Warwick matches unfortunately had to be cancelled. The competitions and house matches have not yet been completed, though they are well on their way. The final of the house matches should not be an easy victory for either side. J. F. Lavender, Folley and Trape were awarded their badges for the season, though Neale would probably have been in the team had he not been absent all the term. The 2nd IV was represented by Nicholls, Orchard, Hinds and Cant. C. M. L.
HOCKEY NOTES. Despite abnormal weather conditions, we have been able to play some successful games of hockey this term, which have shown that if only we could have had better weather, a really good eleven could be produced. Four matches were originally arranged, but three of these unfortunately had to be cancelled. The fourth was against Worcester 2nd XI, and was played on March 13th, on the Worcester ground, producing very encouraging results. Within the first few minutes Worcester scored two goals, and although the School's passing and forward play was good, the home team scored three more times before half-time, when the score stood at 5—0. In the second half the School on the whole played really well, and only allowed one goal to be scored against them, themselves retaliating with a goal. Although the final score was 6—1, this in no way discredits the School team, which had had no previous experience of matches. The following represented the School :—M. B. KnappFisher ; A. D. Holland ; R. Anstey ; S. N. Hackwood ; S. M. Lock ; J. H. Folley ; J. H. Trape ; H. D. Poths ; J. D. Poths ; A. W. Pickford ; J. M. Garnett. Our sincere thanks are due to Mr. Burnett and Mr. Ward, who have helped us so much through their coaching and constant encouragement. A. D. B.
April, 1937 SHOOTING NOTES.
This term we were left with only two members of last year's VIII. This difficulty was soon overcome however, as candidates were not lacking. The resultant VIII was of a higher standard than those of previous years and we were fortunate in eliminating as far as possible our ' tail,' which has been the real trouble in past years. The VIII has been fairly consistent and their average has been a great deal higher than usual. This, despite appalling conditions with which we were faced. These extremes of wet and cold were obviously the reason why the VIII did not return better scores ; but they are to be congratulated on returning a record score of 595 despite the pouring rain, thus beating last year's record by one point. There seems to be a distinct possibility of our getting the range covered, in the near future. When this is done, there is no doubt that our scores will be much improved. Our chief fault this term was our weakness in snap-shooting, this was however partially eliminated by the time of Country Life. The following are the results of this term's matches :— Versus. For Against Result King's, Taunton 546 612 Lost King Edward's, B'ham 546 541 Won St. Edward's, Oxford 546 604 Lost Glenalmond ... 595 628 Lost King's Wimbledon ... 595 Won by default. Framlingham ... 541 537 Won Trent College 576 571 Won Country Life ... 571 & 120 Landscape. (estimate). Our thanks are due to Lieut. J. H. L. Burnett and Sgt.-Major Cooper who have devoted so much time and trouble to the VIII. A. F. E. M. F. B. FILM SOCIETY. In the first performance this term all previous issues of " The Vigornia News " were revived, and the programme included a New^ Review of 1936. At the second show a thrilling and- entertaining film, more up-to-date than usual, was shown—this was called " Death Drives Through." The third performance was given on Easter day, and began with a programme of music by the W.C.K.S. Dance Orchestra, to whom our sincere thanks are due. This was followed by a series of short films, including Charlie Chaplin and a News bulletin. I would like to take this opportunity of asking any members of the School who are interested in the Society to let me know before the end of this term, as the time has come to make arrangements for next winter. Finally, I would like to thank all those who, in their various capacities, have helped to make these shows as successful as possible, especially those who have been members since the Society was started in 1934. A. D. B.
THE VIGORNIAN.
April, 1937 PLAY-READING SOCIETY.
The Society has been able to hold only three meetings this term, but these have all been very successful, and the keenness of last term has been maintained. The three plays read were :—" The Admirable Crichton," " The Ghost Train," and Priestley's " Dangerous Corner." Our thanks are once more due to Mr. Ward for the interest he has taken in the society, and for being present at the meetings. A. D. B. O.T.C. NOTES. The Contingent is at present in an exceptionally flourishing condition, as is shown by the facts that the numbers are larger than they have been for several years past, that so far we have not had a single failure in the Certificate " A " Examinations this year, though of course the results of this term's Theoretical Examination are not yet known, and that the Shooting VIII has broken the School record. We can therefore say, without undue complacency, that the standard of the Contingent 'is probably as high as it has ever been. * * * This term's recruits are being trained by C. S. M. Cooper, and are making rapid progress. It is pleasing to be able to record that the Day Boy houses are again well represented. * * * The Shooting VIII are to be congratulated on breaking the School record with a score of 595 out of a possible 680 in a match against Trinity College, Glenalmond, and K.C.S., Wimbledon. * * * The Corps is sending six representatives to the Army School of Physical Training Course at Aldershot. Those going are :—Sgt. Fairgrieve ; Cpl. Richards ; Cpl. Steward ; Cpl. Bendall ; Cdt. Trape ; Cdt. Garnett. * * * The Contingent have been given three seats for the Coronation procession on May 12th. They have been allotted as follows : Senior Member of the Contingent ; Captain of Shooting; best Certificate " A " in the Contingent. * * * On Monday, March 22nd, we received a visit from Lt. Col. Viscount Bridgman, M.C., General Staff, War Office, who inspected our normal mufti parade activities. * * * The Practical Certificate " A " examination was held on Saturday, February 20th, and all passed. The following took the examination :— Bird, J. C. Lodge, R. L. Bryer, W. N. McEachran, P. Curtis, F. J. Nicholls, M. K. Dobson, R. M. Poths, H. D. Ewen, M. D. Saver, J. D. H. Folley, J. H. Trape, J. H. Glover, I. Wedgwood, K. Hollyer, P. L, B.
W. G. C. Bearcroft was prevented by illness from taking the examination. Part II (Theoretical) was held on Tuesday, March 9th. The results are not yet to hand. Promotions and Appointments :— to be C.S.M. C.Q.M.S. Holland Sergeant. Cpl. Fairgrieve Cpl. Hackwood Sergeant. Corporal. L/Cpl. Bearcroft L/Cpl. Richards L/Cpl. Steward L/Cpl. Sutton L'Corporal. Cdt. Anstey Cdt. Bendall Cdt. Cant Cdt. Davies Cdt. Halliley Cdt. Hinds Cdt. Lavender Cdt. Lock Cdt. Reynolds Cdt. White Sgt. Fairgrieve Captain of Shooting. Cpl. Bearcroft Secretary of Shooting. Sgt. Hackwood Band Sergeant. Field Day, which was to have been on Wednesday, March 17th, was cancelled owing to the bad state of the weather. This was particularly unfortunate, as manoeuvres were going to be more extensive than usual, and, in conjunction with Monkton Combe, Bloxham, Bromsgrove, Cheltenham and Wantage O.T.C's., operations were to have taken place in the Cotswold area, near Stroud. J. F. L. BOXING. We are pleased to announce a distinct revival in boxing this term, so much so that we were enabled to hold a much better competition than usual. Those taking boxing lessons were divided into two squads for convenience ; the Seniors being taught by C.S.M. J. Mitchell, A.S.P.T., the Juniors by C.S.M. Cooper. The competition this year consisted of each house sending in a representative in each of the five weights. This gave a much fairer result than the old method. The finals of the competition were fought on Friday, 19th March, before the whole School. Results of Finals :— 8st. Rice-Jones bt. S. B. Harris on points. 9st. Bird bt. E. M. Bearcroft on points. lOst. Nicholls bt. F. J. Curtis on points, list. Pickford bt. Shelton on points after an additional round. Heavy. Fairgrieve bt. Bendall on points. Results of House Competitions :— 1st Castle House — 5 points. 2nd School House — 4 „ 3rd Chappel's — 3 ,, 4th Hostel — 2 „ 5th Creighton's — 1 „
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THE VIGORNIAN.
Our thanks are due to C.S.M. Mitchell, A.S.P.T. who so kindly judged the finals, also to all those members of the staff who helped in judging and refereeing. A. F.
CROSS COUNTRY. This year the Cross-Country was divided into a Senior and a Junior race, entirely separate from one another. The Day Cup, formerly the Individual Cup, has now become the Junior House Cup. At the last moment it was found impossible to run over the full course, so the juniors ran from the usual start and finished in the first field beyond the Newtown Road, while the Seniors ran from the Fever Hospital and finished at the same place. Owing to the wet state of the course the race was a slow one, and no time was taken. The Senior Cup was won by Creighton's House, the first man home being Hayes, and the Junior Cup by Chappel's House, the individual winner being C. F. Bryer. Placings :— Senior : 1. Creighton's House 1. Hayes. 2. Chappel's House 2. E. M. Bearcroft. 3. Castle House 3. W. N. Bryer. 4. Bubb. 4. Hostel 5. School House. 1. Chappel's House 1. C. F. Bryer. Junior : 2. Creighton's House 2. A. G. Green. 3. W. J. Checketts. 3. Hostel 4. Castle House 4. A. Ewins. 5. School House.
BAND NOTES. There is nothing worthy of note to record of the Band this term, except that it has been steadily improving. It has now attained a considerably higher standard than at first appeared probable, and will not disgrace us when we go to Strensall in July. It has made no public appearance this term, but will gain plenty of experience next term.
SCOUT NOTES. Scouting, like most other School activities, has suffered greatly this term from unfavourable weather. In such a term as this, the need for a larger and better equipped Scout hut is more than usually felt. Suggestions have been made and in the not too far distant future we may see, if not a new, at least a considerably enlarged Scout Hut. Field Day promised to be very interesting this term, as once again S. M. Crowley of the Broadheath Troop had kindly consented to evolve a programme of scoutinggames, but owing to the bad state of the country all activities had to be cancelled.
April, 1937
It was found that owing to the great number of events arranged for the end of term, the troop meeting which was such a success at the end of last term, could not be held. Consequently, patrols have been working hard to get all their members to a high standard of efficiency for the County Rally which is to be held at Eastnor Castle early in next term. The Chief Scout is to be present and it is therefore essential that the camping should be of the highest standard. The School House patrol in particular has been preparing itself to build a bridge for the camp. The whole troop is looking forward to seeing the Chief Scout and it is hoped that at least thirty members of the troops will be in camp during the whole of the Rally. Congratulations are due to Mr. Carstairs and Sergeant Claxton on the Ambulance Team's very good performance in coming second in the Ogilvy Cup Ambulance Competition. The Team consisted of Carstairs, Bough, M. H. Anstey, Flay and Mann. We should also like to express our very deep gratitude to Mr. Carstairs and Sergeant Claxton for giving up so much time to coaching the team. Garnett, Pennington, Williams, Bridgeman, S. M. C. Jones and T. K. Dinsdale have all passed their Tenderfoot Tests this term. H. W. H. B. S. E.
THE CHRISTMAS CONCERT, 1936. The School Christmas Concert was held on Friday, December 18th, and began with the usual spirited rendering of the School Song. This was followed by a sound and impressive performance by the School Choir of C. V. Stanford's " The Battle of the Baltic." They sang the work with understanding and expression, and the rendering, though necessarily ' hearty,' was wholly enjoyable. Mrs. F. E. Hutchinson very kindly accompanied the Choir, and her work was greatly appreciated. This was followed by two songs, " Linden Lea " and " The Vagabond," which ware admirably sung by S. N. Hackwood. After this the School Orchestra, though sadly diminished in size and in urgent need of recruits, gave a noble rendering of a Mozart Minuet and a Bach Gavotte. The first part of the programme was concluded by the ever-welcome male-voice quartet, who sang two old favourites, " Quibbles Cocoa " and " The Three Chafers," and received the usual ovation. The second half of the programme opened with two delightful part-songs by the Choir—" Heraclitus " and " The Ash Grove "—both admirably rendered. The orchestra then gave a Sullivan Selection, which was as popular as ever, and the quartet sang another group of three songs, and raised the usual laughter. The programme ended in a traditional Christmas manner when the Choir sang four carols, which again were well received. The whole programme was well balanced, and congratulations are due to Mr. Day, Mrs. Hutchinson, and the performers, who helped to make such an enjoyable evening.
THE VIGORNIAN.
April, 1937
PROGRAMME. 1. School Song—" Floreat " Vine Hall 2. " The Battle of the Baltic " ... C. V. Stanford. THE SCHOOL CHOIR. Accompanist: MRS. F. E. HUTCHINSON. 3. Songs—(a) Linden Lea ... R. Vaughan Williams. (b) The Vagabond S. N. HACKWOOD. 4. Minuet from Symphony in G Minor ... Mozart Gavotte from Overture in D ... ... ... Bach THE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA 5. Quartets—(a) Quibble's Cocoa Harper (b) The Three Chafers ... Truhn Messrs. H. E. NICHOLLS, E. F. DAY, A. D. FRANKLIN, G. K. TATTERSALL. * * * PART II. 1. Part Songs—(a) Heraclitus ... C. V. Stanford. (6) Choral variations on the " Ash Grove " ... G. H. Knight. THE CHOIR. 2. Selection Sullivan THE ORCHESTRA. 3. Quartets—(a) Jack Sprat... Blackburn (b) The Cigarettes ... Button (c) Two snails J. F. Bridge. 4. Carols —(a) The Holly and the Ivy (b) I saw three ships (c) Angels from the realms of glory (d) Unto us a boy is born • * »
AULD LANG SYNE THE LIBRARY. We would like to acknowledge two very kind gifts : that of a volume of Landseer reproductions from A. E. Looker, Esq., the father of R. A. S. Looker, O.V., and that of a copy of Professor G. M. Trevelyan's " Grey of Fallpdon," from the Rev. C. Creighton. The latter gift is of especial interest for it was, as many O.V's will remember, Viscount Grey who opened the New Classrooms and the Chappel Memorial Reading Room in 1925. B. S. E. OXFORD LETTER. Oxford, March, 1937. Dear Sirs, We are writing this in the last minute rush before going down. The Term has been uneventful in many ways, chiefly notable for illness, and our main interest at the moment is the Boat Race. This year, as Coronation Year, is, we feel, a most appropriate time for us to show that Cambridge has not got too far away from us for us to be aware of her existence on the river. We much regret the disappearance of Mr. Creighton after his ephemeral appearance in our midst. We will now proceed to tell you a few home untruths about ourselves.
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H. BAYLIS (St. Stephen's House). Is never in evidence, so we hopefully imagine that he spends his days in prayer and fasting. Rumour, however, has it that together with other ordinands he indulges in vast teas at the Moorish. A. J. N. RICHARDS (Hertford). Working hard, we hear. Manages to go for long walks, however, and to play various instruments on equally various occasions. Indulges in a vice now prevalent among " everyone who's anyone " (as he confidentially put it, proffering his Snuff—late Oxo—Tin !). J. F. LISTER (Keble). Aptly described as fat and well-liking. President of the College Theological Society,—so you gather that he is more episcopal than ever. (This, however, is more than offset by the fact that we discovered him one night surreptitiously smoking an opulent cigar in his room). In his more frivolous moments plays fives. J. L. WARREN (Hertford). Maintains the School tradition by playing Hockey and running ; also spends a great deal of time absorbed in Chess. Above all, is becoming famous as a frequent contributor to the J.C.R. Suggestion Book. His future as a newspaper correspondent is, we feel, assured. R. C. HICKS (Keble). Rows energetically in the Second Togger. After a contretemps at the New Bridge was to be seen with his eight companions in distress clinging to the piles. We saw him the other day in a garment which made us wonder if he was anticipating clerical attire. We would remind him that this is surely somewhat premature, and suggest that he should try getting up before 10 a.m. We are glad to hear that the School is sending up two candidates for scholarships, and wish them every possible success. Yours, etc., OXON.
CONTRIBUTIONS. THE MASTER AND THE MONITOR. (with apologies to Leu-is Carroll). The Master and the Monitor Were walking side by side. The Monitor was trying hard His ignorance to hide, When suddenly in front of them A scholar they espied. " Oh, will you come and walk with us ?" The learned Master said. " I'm sorry," said the knowing youth, " I'm going home to bed." (The Monitor gazed after him And shook his weary head). Then four young scholars hurried up, Whose clothes betrayed their pains ; Their hair was brushed, their faces washed, Their coats were free from stains. (And this was odd, because, you know, They hadn't any brains).
THE VIGORNIAN.
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The Master led the way towards A lonely spot he knew. And there he asked them divers things— They answered very few. (The Monitor, he stood behind And answered questions too). " The time has come," the Master said, " To do some work at last, To try some unseen passages And learn to do them fast, And learn the things that happened in The ages that have passed." Then giving each a musty book, He said : " And these you need : For in these books in future you Shall Latin proses read." (The Scholars heaved a weary sigh, And little did they heed). At last the Master closed his book ; He said : " And now we've done— Suppose we wander home again ?" But answer came there none. (And that was scarcely odd because They'd vanished, every one). Improbus Anser.
WIE SCHWER DIESE WELT! Es heult der Wind durch grUne Blatter, Er rauscht durch all die wilden Baume ; Es knarrt die Zweige, Es stohnt die Stamme, Der Donnerschlag rollt im zornigen Himmel. Es funkelt der Blitz Quer durch die Wolken : Regen stromt herunter unendlich ; Der Wind und der Dormer, sie krachen umher, Durch den ganzen Wald rast Hagelwetter. Ach wie das arrne Menschlein weint, Es wollte nur die Sonne scheint. H. W. H.
A MIDNIGHT BATHE It was after midnight and silence reigned in the camp ; everyone was sleeping to prepare for tomorrow's long journey. There had been speeches and pillowfights and a camp-fire and 'hot dogs' and now everybody had gone to bed thoroughly tired, but thoroughly happy. But we had planned our last night in camp differently and when the only hum of voices came
April, 1937
from the Camp Chief's tent we stole out of our tent with towels in our hand, half-joyful and half fearful in our anticipation. It was a full-moon and as we walked through the silent village the bright beams played upon our faces. Everything was still and silent and then as we got nearer the shore we could hear the waves lapping on to the beach. The majestic beauty of the night hushed our voices and we were able to perceive the tremendous power hidden beneath those tiny waves. There was no foam and no crash as they came in one by one, but the quiet of the night brought out their all-powerful spirit, disguised beneath the almost playful lappings of those tiny waves. We were soon undressed and in the power of the faintly billowing waters, which were so warm and friendly that it seemed as if they had been waiting for us. It was an exhilarating feeling just to float on the waves of this strangely warm and friendly sea. The moonbeams glinted and everyone felt a kind of affection for this sometimes angry, terrible old Monster. Tonight he was the kindly old man with a smile for each of us. Slowly and quietly we walked back across the meadows to camp, drinking in the glory and majesty of this unforgettable scene. Once in camp, it was not long before our heads were on our pillows, and who will say whether it was the straw rustling or the lapping of the waves still going on in our ears which lulled us to sleep ? CORRESPONDENCE. To the Editor of The Vigornian. Dear Sir, Many years ago, on the occasion of the annual School Speech Day, the O.T.C. Band used to provide music while the guests were leaving College Hall and were taking tea. Whatever the reason for its ceasing to be so, I personally feel, and I am sure many will agree with me, that if the practice were to be continued it would be welcomed with enthusiasm by guests and School alike. Would the authorities concerned care to give serious consideration to the matter ? I am, sir, yours, etc., BUCINATOR. CONTEMPORARIES. We acknowledge, with thanks, the following contemporaries, with apologies for any accidental omissions : The Felstedian, The Wulfrunian, The Bromsgrovian (2), The Tonbridgian, The St. Michael's Chronicle, The Monktonian, The Decanian (2), The Cheltonian (2), The Limit (2), The Monmothian (2), The St. Edward's School Chronicle (2), The King Edward's School Chronicle, The Bloxamist, The Wyggestonian.