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THE VIGORNIAN THE WORCESTER

CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE TA MEN AIAAKTA MAN9ANO, TA A'BTPETA ZHTfi, TA A'ETKTA IIAPA 6EQN HITH2AMHN.

No. 150. Vol. XIII. CONTENTS. Editorial Goodman Scholarship Art Room Fund Day Boys' Changing Room New Guinea Mission School Officers School Notes House Notes O.V. News Engagements, etc. ... Obituary Rugger Notes O.T.C. Notes Shooting Notes Band Notes Cross-Country Run Fives Notes Boxing Notes Hockey Scout Notes Christmas Concert Mr. Selwyn Driver, O.V " Twelfth Night " and " The Tempest' Fifty Years Ago Oxford Letter Duke of York's Camp Play-reading Society Science and Engineering Society ... Table Tennis Club Chess Valete Salvete Contributions Correspondence Contemporaries

APRIL, 1938.

Price Is.

EDITORIAL. Page 58 " Grow slowly, year, like a child that is dear, 59 Or a lamb that is mild. 59 By little steps, and by little skips, 59 Like a lamb or a child." 59 59 Consciously or unconsciously, this must have been 60 the thought which predominated in our minds as we 60 browsed happily in the Garden this Term. As we 62 watched the laughing crocuses, waving in the light 63 breeze, and admired the blossom cautiously peeping 63 forth on the trees, we must often have echoed the poet's 64 plea to the growing year. " O year ! Grow slowly." 64 So often blossom has been followed by fruit and fruit 64 by harvest and harvest by the rustling of falling 64 October leaves and we have not noticed. This term, 65 the glorious early Spring sunshine has drawn us all 65 joyfully into the Garden, determined that this year 65 we shall not miss the glorious course of nature. 65 Here in the Garden, whose beauty prompted A. G. 65 66 Bradley to describe the School as a place of " leafy 66 gardens and lawns down to the river," we learn to 66 recognise the true Beauty and the true Greatness. 67 The fair prospect of the Malvern Hills across the 67 meadows of the Severn teaches us that there is some67 thing far more important than " cabbages and Kings," 68 and we feel that, after all, it does not really matter so 68 much that someone named Hitler marched into Austria. 68 The Garden, we feel, is the place which will instinctively 69 spring to our minds, when in years to come we think 69 about the " Old School." It is, we know, the place 69 to which we, like so many who are already O.V., will 69 hasten when we come down to visit the School years 71 hence, and it is here, we feel sure, where we learn most 72 " to be true to the highest that is in us."

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Lest however, you should think that we, like poor Tomlinson, are equally worthy of the condemnation of Hell's gate-keeper: " Ye have read, ye have heard, ye have thought," he said, " and the tale is yet to run : By the worth of the body that once ye had, give answer—what ha' ye done ? " we hasten to inform you that this Term has by no means been lacking in events. The Cross-Country Run, the " Belows " matches, the " Standards " and the Fives matches have all been aided by the phenomenally beautiful weather we have been enjoying, and we tentatively suggest that this term we have set up a record by keeping all events on their scheduled dates. The Band appeared on Field Day, and from the noise of duelling which sometimes can be heard coming from College Hall, we gather that the Play is now nearing perfection. The whole term in fact seems to have been surrounded by a halo of sunshine and happiness, and in conclusion we can do no better than to wish you all the same measure of happiness in the holidays.

ARCHDEACON F. W. GOODMAN MISSIONARY SCHOLARSHIP. In order to encourage education for work in the overseas Missions of the Church of England, the Venerable F. W. Goodman, D.D., Archdeacon of Arctic Alaska, who is a native of Worcester, has founded a Scholarship of the annual value of £100, tenable at a British University and at a Theological College, or at a Theological College only, by boys who have been educated at the King's School and who intend to take up Missionary work. The School is exceedingly grateful to the Archdeacon for this munificent scholarship, and hopes that it will be able to send forth from its members a continuing supply of the right kind of men for missionary work and thus fulfil the Archdeacon's hopes. We were very glad to welcome the founder of the Scholarship this term in College Hall, where for over an hour he kept us both interested and amused by his varied life among the Eskimos. The Archdeacon has transliterated the Eskimo sounds into English, as the natives have long lost their written characters, and has at great pains succeeded in producing for them a book of prayer. He ended his most interesting talk to us by reciting the Lord's Prayer in Eskimo. The School not only gives the Archdeacon its most sincere thanks, but wishes him Godspeed on his return to Alaska.

ART ROOM FUND. A beginning has been made towards raising the sum required for making the Art Room sound-proof, but more than £40 is still wanted, and the Headmaster will be very glad to receive further contributions. Contributions are gratefully acknowledged from : the

April, 1938

Oxford University O.V. Club ; T. E. Rammell, Esq.; Capt. W. L. Allen, R.N.; F. L. Steward, Esq., and the Headmaster.

DAY BOYS' CHANGING ROOM. The School acknowledges with many thanks the gift of a very efficient heating apparatus, which has entirely transformed the Day Boys' Changing Room. It was given by a large number of the parents of the boys in Creighton's and Chappel's Houses.

NEW GUINEA MISSION. There has been a notable increase of subscribers to the Worcester Branch of the New Guinea Association, which supports the work of Bishop Strong, O.V. The School's welcome contribution of £1. 10. 3 brought up the total sum which the branch was able to send up to the central fund at the end of last year to £18. 18. 9. Besides this, over £12 worth of articles were sent up to the bazaar in November. The Local Secretary (Mrs. Alec Macdonald, 8 Lansdowne Crescent, Worcester), in thanking subscribers, hopes to be able to do even better this year, and would be very grateful for the help of O.V. in doing so.

SCHOOL OFFICERS. Captain of the School Captain of Rugger Secretary of Rugger Captain of Boats Captain of Fives Captain of Shooting Secretary of Shooting Captain of Hockey Captain of Gym

D. B. Steward. A. Fairgrieve. J. H. Folley. A. Fairgrieve. C. M. Lavender. A. Fairgrieve. J. M. Garnett. S. O. A. M. Lock. D. B. Steward. fC. M. Lavender. " L A . J. Bendall.

Sports Secretaries Captains of Houses :-•School House D. B. Steward. Castle House A. J. Bendall. Hostel S. O. A. M. Lock. Chappel's House H. W. Hinds. H. J. Checketts. Creighton's House School Monitors—D. B. Steward, S. O. A. M. Lock, A. J. Bendall, A. Fairgrieve, H. J. Checketts. Editors of The Vigornian—D. B. Steward, P. T. Halliley, H. W. Hinds. Librarians—S. O. A. M. Lock, P. T. Halliley, R. T. L. Allen, H. W. Hinds, H. J. Checketts.

April, 1938

THE VIGORNIAN. SCHOOL NOTES.

We offer our heartiest congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Burnett on the birth of a son early in the term. They now have a complete " second row."

This term has seen alterations both in the CrossCountry Run and the Sports. The latter have been amplified by the addition of Standards, and an account will appear in next term's Vigornian ; details of the former appear in this issue.

We were sorry to hear earlier in the term of the death of Dr. W. W. Vaughan, former Headmaster of Rugby. We shall long remember his visit at Speech Day last summer, when he gave away the Prizes.

Rehearsals of " The Critic," by Sheridan, have been going on throughout the term, and the results of Mr. Macdonald's labours are eagerly awaited. Popular interest has been aroused by the fact that the School Orchestra is also practising in connection with the play.

No. 9 College Green, lived in by masters, or others connected with the school, for some twenty years, has been again let to strangers. In the course of extensive repairs to the interior, the workmen uncovered the remains of an interesting 17th century kitchen fire-place, of stone and brick, in what used to be Mr. Franklin's study ; so far as possible this is being preserved. This was no doubt the house built by Thomas Tomkins, the 17th century organist of the Cathedral, which, later in that century was used as a girl's school.

We feel it our duty to report that the weather this term has been extremely kind, and has in no way interfered with the School activities. We should not be surprised, however, should the fields be under water when this appears in print !

We should like to congratulate D. B. Steward on winning a War Memorial Exhibition in History at Hertford College, Oxford. The School attended Mattins in the Cathedral on Ash Wednesday. Senior members of the school have also been attending the Thursday afternoon Lenten Services in the Cathedral. We have had two School Services in the Lady Chapel this term, and we have one more to come. The address was given by the Headmaster of St. Bees on February 6th, by our own late Headmaster, the Rev. C. Creighton, on March 6th, and the last address will be given by the Headmaster on April 3rd. On March 28th a Confirmation Service was held in the Cathedral by the Bishop of Worcester. 25 candidates from the School were confirmed. The School obtained 8 School Certificates in the December Examination of the Oxford and Cambridge Schools Examination Board. We very much regret the passing of Col. Albert Webb, president of the O.V. Club, and of Mr. F. G. Jones, its Hon. Auditor—two of the oldest O.V. Obituary notices appear elsewhere. On March 1st a party from the School went to the Alice Ottley School to hear an address by the Bishop of Masasi.

HOUSE NOTES. SCHOOL HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : D. B. Steward, A. Fairgrieve, P. T. Halliley, C. M. Lavender, J. D. Reynolds. Although this term we cannot claim any outstanding success, we do not have to bow our heads at the thought of any outstanding defeat. We have been in that happy position in which one receives in some measure the satisfaction of the victor, and is spared the humiliation of the vanquished. Far be it from us to be content with the position, but our hopes are in the future, and with what follows we shall dismiss the past. Our " Belows " team was distinctly lacking in size and skill at the beginning of the term, but with the approach of the matches it attained a rather remarkable vigour which made up for a lot. In other words it " went hard "—except for scattered occasions when it became " mesmerised "—and eventually finished up third equal with Hostel. Clarke put in some good work behind the scrum, and J. C. McKerrow's tackling was sound. There is promising material there for the future. As for the Cross-Country Runs, we must congratulate Clarke and N. McKerrow on coming second and fourth respectively in the Junior Race, and Reynolds on coming fourth in the Open. In the Junior we were six points behind the winners, and so acquitted ourselves honourably. Great things will be expected of Clarke in the future. In the open we did not do so well ; Creighton's and Chappel's made very sure use of the first two places. Just before going to press we entertained hopes of winning the Boxing Cup, but Castle House were allowing no poachers on what now appears to be their preserve. However we gave them a run for their money—Clarke, Trape', and Fairgrieve won their weights in the Finals—and we finished up two points behind. We have now transferred our hopes to the Fives, where we can feel reasonably confident of success. Our active interest in the Corps has been maintained. We provided five recruits at the beginning of the term, and they are shaping well. We must congratulate

THE VIGORNIAN.

Field on getting Certificate " A " last term, and also Pickford and Ward on passing Part I this term. We hope that, with Fox, they have been successful in Part 2. Turning our attention to the holidays, we note that Steward, Fairgrieve, and Knapp- Fisher are going on a Battlefields Tour. We hope their trip won't be spoilt by European Complications ! Trap6, Lavender, and Reynolds are going to P.T. Camp, where we hope they will learn much of use to themselves and the House.

CASTLE HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : A. J. Bendall, H. Rice-Jones, R. T. L. Allen. On our return at the beginning of this term, we were very sorry to find that Mr. Bentley was still suffering from a severe injury to his back, which he had received during the holidays. It was not long, however, before he was fully recovered. The House itself has enjoyed a complete immunity from any disease and the Sick Room has been almost unused, thanks to the untiring efforts of Matron. We congratulate Allen and Bearcroft on passing Theoretical Certificate " A " last term, and Fourdrinier on passing Practical this term. Three members of the House : Allen, Bearcroft, and A. J. Bendall have shot for the VIII and Lodge was chosen as Team Leader for the Country Life Competition. The House Dramatic Society, which was so successful at the end of last term is well represented in the School play, no fewer than twelve members having parts. Our " Belows " team did not find its form until the end of the tournament, but we had bad luck in losing our last two matches. The Cross Country team hardly came up to expectation, but we congratulate Bearcroft on gaining sixth place. The Boxing Competition is still in progress and as we have won nine fights out of ten in the first two rounds, we are well in the running for the Cup. Little can be said about the Standards, since they have only been introduced this term and have not yet finished, but we hope to acquit ourselves creditably. Folley again secured a place in the 1st IV Fives, for the third year in succession, and he and Skelton will make a formidable pair in the House Fives Competition. Finally we wish D. C. Bendall and Good best of luck at the P.T. Camp and hope that everyone will enjoy the holidays. HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : S. O. A. M. Lock, J. D. H. Sayer. We offer our heartiest congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Burnett on the birth of their son Michael shortly after the beginning of term. We started the term without Poths, Bird and Cant; to the latter we extend our deepest sympathy in the personal bereavement which terminated a most promising school career. In sport, we have had quite a successful term. We started off well, being represented in the Colts team by

April, 1938

M. C. Jones (Captain of the Juniors), Richardson, Allchurch and Goer. This seemed to augur well for the Belows, but unfortunately our team, though it began well, did not seem to fulfil the high trust we had placed in it. In the Cross-Country Seniors and Juniors went to opposite extremes. The Juniors' team, headed by Clinch (3rd), distinguished itself by winning the Day Cup, but the Seniors were not so successful. Sayer ran well for fifth place ; L. C. Jones was 9th ; Garnett, Shovelton and Lock were in the last six, the latter out of condition after a slight illness. House Boxing has had a most flourishing term under the captaincy of L. C. Jones. We were represented in the Finals by L. C. Jones, Allchurch and Bridgman. The latter won well, but Allchurch lost pluckily against an older and stronger fellow. Jones fought extremely well against Rice-Jones and only lost after a hard fight. We finished 3rd in the competition with 4 points. The House is very keen to have the honour of winning the Standards Shield for the first year in which it has been competed for. M. C. Jones and Garnett have distinguished themselves by getting all seven standards. We are all sorry for Richardson, whose illness has prevented him from taking part. We congratulate Garnett and L. C. Jones on passing Cert. " A " Practical, and hope their pessimistic appearance after the Theoretical exam, was pure modesty and not an accurate forecast. This is the last term for Sayer, who, apart from his other qualities, is noteworthy as the last " Castleyite " in the House. We hope he will be one of Wigan's most distinguished solicitors in years to come.

CHAPPEL'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : H. W. Hinds, S. B. Harris, G. W. Mann. There were no newcomers to the House at the beginning of the Term, but although two senior members had left, we had great hopes of success in the House Competitions—most of which were unfortunately doomed to disappointment. The Rugger Cup, which seemed within our grasp at the end of last term, was snatched from us in our last match by Hostel, by the very narrow margin of three points—and those gained only after ten minutes extra time. Our ' Belows ' team played with keenness and skill and was very unlucky to be drawn against our most formidable opponents in the first match, to whom it only lost, however, by the narrow margin of three points. Again we were unfortunate to miss the Senior Cross Country Cup by three points to Creighton House. Kendall, who led the field for half the course, did very well to finish second. A. G. Green is also to be congratulated on winning the junior race. The House was represented in the Boxing Competition, in all the weights but two. Although all our boxers had plenty of keenness, their skill was not so evident, and only S. B. Harris succeeded in winning his weight.

April, 1938

THE VIGORNIAN.

We have eighteen members of the House in the Corps this term, which represents almost half the House. We congratulate H. W. Pettigrew on passing Part I of Cert " A," and wish him luck in the Theoretical part. Hinds has been a member of the First Fives IV since the beginning of the term and we are hoping that he and Flay will acquit themselves with credit in the House Competition. This term we have been particularly pleased that the younger members of the House have gone in for everything with equal zest, but we feel that there are still a few members of the House who could play games every day and are not doing so. We appeal to them to pull their weight for the House with the rest. Finally we wish T. W. Checketts, who left us in the middle of the term, all success in his new post, and all those who are coming back next term, fine weather and good holidays !

CREIGHTON'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : H. J. Checketts, J. H. Pressdee, P. Hoddinott, C. F. Bryer. We welcomed two new boys into the House this term, D. Williams and Castle. We also welcomed Harrison, but he suddenly decided to become a boarder. By an even more complete set of victories the House re-won the Belows Cup this term with the following team : C. F. Bryer (Capt.), Key, H. J. Checketts, R. E. Harris, Hoddinott, J. G. Green, R. C. Allen, Ranford, and James, who left school half-way through the matches, his place being taken by Healey. James has our best wishes for a successful future. We again won the Open Cross-Country; Bryer especially deserves praise for gaining first place at so early an age. In the Junior Race we tied with Chappel's House for third place. We also hope that Bryer will retain the title and cup of the Junior Victor Ludorum for the third year. Though handicapped by so many young members we are doing well in the Standards, and intend to put up a good struggle for the Shield. We must thank all members who have rallied to do something "extra" for the House in Fives, Boxing, etc. We place our hopes in Pressdee to win a Certificate " A " and give a tent in Camp to the increased number of O.T.C. Members in the House. Still more people, and especially younger members, are asked to join in everything possible that the School offers, to benefit themselves and everyone else. In unison with Chappel's House we would like to thank the parents of Day Boys who, by making a gift of the stove which now adorns the changing-room, have unexpectedly brought to fulfilment a desire which has long been felt. We are very grateful.

O.V. NEWS. R. I. G. Brooks (Castle House, 1932-36) passed Certificate " B " in the Cavalry Branch of the Cambridge University Contingent of the O.T.C., last November. E. D. Dickson (1898-1899), of The Rectory, Paisley, Ontario, tells us that he still has a prize given him for smart drill on Saturday mornings when at School. He served in the Canadian Medical Corps and the Canadian Engineers during the War. Lt. P. H. Graves-Morris (School House, 1920-1925), of the Worcestershire Regiment, was promoted to Captain on November 24th, 1937. I. H. Hedderwick (Hostel 1931-1934) left for India last November to join the Indian Army. T. E. Higginson (School House, 1926-1933), who was articled to Norris and Miles, of Tenbury Wells, and to Hedley, Norris & Co. of London, obtained third class Honours at the Honours examination of the Law Society in December, 1937. P. L. B. Hollyer (Castle Hous«, 1935-1937) has entered the firm of Armstrong and Warden, Ltd., 63-69 New Oxford St., W.C.I., advertising and marketing agents. He hopes to sit for his professional qualifications in due N. King (1893-1900), Consul General at Barcelona, was made K.C.M.G. in the Coronation Honours. D. F. Parry (School House, 1929-1933) has recently passed his Final Examination for the A.M.I.Mech.E., although he cannot use the letters until he is 25 years of age. * * * C. E. Roberts (Day Boys, 1929-1931) has passed the Final Examination of the Law Society, while still under 21 years of age. M. S. Taylor (Day Boys, 1918-27) writes to tell us that he was married at Knightwick, on January 22nd, but unfortunately omits further details. A. L. Taylor (Day Boys, 1931-33) is now a Pilot Officer in 226B Bomber Squadron, R.A.F. He was recently selected with two others to give a demonstration of close-formation flying before the O.C. No. 1 Bomber Group. He played Rugger last season for No. 6 F.T.S., and captained one of the R.A.F. seven-a-side teams, which won the annual competition, beating Headquarters team in the final.

THE VIGORNIAN.

April, 1938

OBITUARY. ALBERT WEBB, O.V. 1862-7. DIED—25th FEBRUARY, 1938. We have to record, with deep regret, the death at the age of 86 of Lt. Col. Albert Webb, V.D., J.P., one of the few surviving original members of the O.V. Club and its President since 1931. He joined the School at the age of ten in 1862, when We would remind O.V. that we are always eager to Mr. Maurice Day was at the beginning of his reign. hear from them, and we would encourage them to write When he heard that a History of the School was in to us either about themselves or about others in order preparation, he sent the author a long and detailed letter that this column may be longer than it is at present. of reminiscences of his schooldays, remarkable both for the vividness of memories already seventy years old and for the terseness of the style. Almost the whole was printed in the History, and the original letter is to be deposited in the VI Form Library. ENGAGEMENTS. The youngest son of Alderman Edward Webb, shortly after leaving school he entered the family HALTON—CARR. The engagement is announced between business, Messrs. W. & F. Webb, House Furnishers Eric Creighton Halton (School House, 1924-28) (founded in 1835) and became a partner in 1875. For youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Halton, of many years he was the head of the firm. Etterby, Carlisle, and Diana Mabel Carr, of Langarth, He devoted much of his time to civic duties, serving Brisco, Carlisle, youngest daughter of the late Mr. for a long period as Chairman of the City Education and Mrs. Bertram Carr. Committee, and recently as Mayor. He had travelled widely in Europe and America, and was a great lover of music, doing much to support musical ventures in ELT—COOPER. The engagement is announced between the City. But his principal interest outside his business Albert Royston Elt (Day Boys, 1920—1925), of was the Volunteer Movement. As early as 1865 he Bransford Road, Worcester, to Gwendolen Sonia was a member of the Cadet Corps in the School, and his Cooper, daughter of C.S.M. G. A. Cooper, Sergeant- entertaining recollections of its activities are recorded Major Instructor of the King's School, Worcester, in the History. On leaving school he took a commission as ensign in the 1st Worcestershire Artillery Volunteers, O.T.C. and retired only in 1892 with the rank of Lt. Colonel. It was characteristic of his thoroughness than when this corps was given an automatic gun, Col. Webb went to the works of the Maxim Company and made a complete study of the gun and wrote a manual of instruction on it. DEATHS. During the South African War he contributed to a local BLACKALL. On March 17th, 1938, at Redhill, the paper a series of weekly articles giving a survey of the Rev. Christopher John Ofspring Blackall (Day Boys campaign. During the Great War he commanded the and School House, 1920-1927), aged 29. Worcester Volunteer Training Corps, and also served for a time as Military Representative on the local tribunal, where his duty was to resist the appeals of LUMLEY. On Saturday, January 8th, 1938, as the men claiming exemption from military service. result of a car accident, Edward John O'Driscoll All his life he was a firm churchman, and served as Lumley (Day Boys, 1926-1928), aged 22. People's Warden of St. Andrew's Parish from 1885 # # # until his death. For many years he was one of the OWEN. Recently, at Port Sunlight Hospital, Port representatives of the diocese to the Canterbury House Sunlight, Ireland, Capt. Llewelyn W. G. Owen, M.C., of Laymen. (Hostel, 1911-1913), after an operation for severe The School joins with the whole City of Worcester gastric trouble. He was in his 42nd year. in mourning the loss of a loyal and generous friend. We have received a letter from G. F. C. Ashdowne (1922-1925), of Auckland, New Zealand, suggesting that O.V. residing abroad should be represented at the O.V. Reunion by the national flag of the country in which they live. He has himself very kindly presented a New Zealand flag. If there are any O.V. who have any further suggestions to make on the subject, will they kindly communicate with us.

SPALDING. On Monday, March 21st, near Cirencester, Frederick Raymond Spalding (Day Boys, 1931-1936), in a car accident. TOWNSHEND. On Wednesday, January 12th, 1938, at Worcester, Frank Townshend (Day Boys, 18741878), aged 73, head of the firm of Thomas S. Townshend and Sons, Albion Mill, Worcester.

SIR GEORGE GREVILLE. O.V. 1862-69. Sir George Greville, K.C.M.G., was a contemporary, at the School, of Col. Webb, and his death some months ago at the age of 86 should have been recorded in our last issue. He was one of Mr. Maurice Day's most brilliant pupils ; leaving the school in 1869, he went up to Oxford and in 1875 entered the Diplomatic Service. After holding important posts at Rio de

April, 1938

THE VIGORNIAN.

Janeiro and at Buda-Pesth, he became Minister Resident at Bangkok in 1896, and in 1900 was sent as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Mexico. He had been made C.M.G. in 1895, and in 1905, when he finally retired from the Service, he was created K.C.M.G. FREDERICK GEORGE JONES. O.V. 1872-8. With the death a few weeks ago of Mr. F. G. Jones, the O.V. Club loses a much valued member, and one who for many years past had served in the necessary but unspectacular office of Honorary Auditor. He was 75 years of age, and one of the oldest Chartered Accountants in the City, having started in practice as a young man, when the profession was in its infancy. He was an enthusiastic chess player, and since 1921 had been President of the Worcester Chess Club.

Promotions

L/Cpl. Trape" L/Cpl. Halliley Cadet Garnett

to be Corporal. ,, Corporal. ,, L/Corporal.

Appointment : L/Cpl. Garnett to be Secretary of Shooting. 19 Recruits joined the Corps this term and are making satisfactory progress under Sgt. Bendall and Cpl. Lodge. Field operations took place this term on March 18th in the Hill Croome—Brockeridge Common Area. The general scheme was an Advanced Guard of one Company, commanded by C.S.M. Steward, which was covering a force marching on Gloucester, and was opposed by an Arab force composed of a strong platoon under Under-Officer Fairgrieve.

RUGGER NOTES. This term two Colts matches were played. The first, an " Under 16 " Fixture against Bromsgrove, was won by 28 pts. to 8. The second, an " Under 15 " Fixture against Sebright School, Wolverley, was lost by 24 pts. to 8. The standard of play was quite high and there is plenty of talent for years to come. The following played against Bromsgrove : J. C. McKerrow, J. H. Richardson, Mann (Capt.), Flay, W. J. Checketts, Bryer, Clarke, Shelton, Coles, M. H. Anstey, S. M. C. Jones, Ellison, Allchurch, Good, Goer. The following played against Sebright : Hulme, Clinch, Flay, Key, Morris, A. G. Green, Clarke, Coles, Allchurch, Good, Ellison, Healey, S. M. C. Jones (Capt.), M. H. Anstey, D. J. Harris. Other Colts fixtures had unfortunately to be cancelled. BELOWS. C.H. H. S.H. Cr. 0 x 0 Castle 1 x 2 Hostel 1 x 2 School 2 2 Creighton's ... 2 2 2 2 Chappel's

Ch. Total Place 5th J 3rd 1st 2nd A. F. H. F.

O.T.C. NOTES. The following were successful in the November Cert. ' A ' Exam :—Cadets Sayer, Allen, Bearcroft, Field and Kirkwood. The following passed the Practical part of this term's Cert. ' A ' Exam :—L/Cpl. Garnett, Cadets L. C. Jones, Fourdrinier, Pickford, Pettigrew, Ward and Pressdee.

SHOOTING NOTES. For the majority of the term the range has been devoted to practice for the VIII, who have steadily improved throughout the short time available for practice. Considerable competition has been shown for the last few places in the VIII, and those finally chosen usually justified themselves. Shooting Matches : Feb. 12th. v. Trent College, Glenalmond. For : 555 pts. Against : 641 pts. Result: Lost by 86 pts. Feb. 26th. v. St. Edward's, Oxford. For : 608 pts. Against : 614 pts. Result: Lost by 6 pts. Mar. 12th. v. Trent College. For : 610 pts. Against: 572 pts. Result : Won by 38 pts. Mar. 17th. Country Life Competition. 592 pts. + 109 (Estimated landscape score) : Total 701 pts. For the remainder of the term the range has been devoted to classification with some quite good results.

A: F. J. M. G. BAND NOTES. The Band has steadily improved this term ; so much so that the prospects for next term are considerably brighter than they were at first. The only thing of importance to record is the appearance of the Band on Field Day. This was a great success, such unfortunate occurrences as the breaking of skins and the dropping of sticks, etc. being conspicuous by their absence. We make a mental note to concentrate on marching next term. Otherwise we require the usual hard individual practice and close attention to the invaluable advice of Mr. Lafham. D. B. S.

THE VIGORNIAN.

65 CROSS-COUNTRY RUN.

The Cross-Country took place on Monday, March 7th, and was in the form of an experiment. As last year it was divided into two Races, Open and Under 15. But there were two main differences : (1) it was run as a team race, each House entering its five best runners ; (2) the courses were changed. The Under 15 Course was substantially the same as the Cross-Country Course of old, except that it did not include the Golf Links. The Open Course followed the Under 15 to the bottom of Perry Wood and was then extended south of Nunnery Wood, making a total distance of 4$ to 5 miles. The placings were as follows :— Open : 1. Creighton's House (44 pts.) 1. Bryer (Cr.). Kendall (Ch.). 2. Chappel's House (47) " ~" 3. Taaffe (Ch.). 3. School House (69) 4. Reynolds (S.H.). 4. Castle House (82) 5. Sayer(H.). 5. Hostel (83) Time : 33 min. 17.2 sees.

April, 1938

The following were the results of the finals :— 7 st. : Clarke (S.H.) beat McEachran (C.H.) 7 st. 7 Ibs. Bridgman (H.) Cowper (Ch.) 8 st. : S. B. Harris (Ch.) Bowles (C.H.) 8 st. 7 Ibs. Bearcroft (C.H.) Allchurch (H.) L. C. Jones (H.) 9 st. 7 Ibs. Rice-Jones (C.H.) 10 st. 7 Ibs. Trap<5 (S.H.) Hoddinott (Cr.) Shelton (C.H.) 11 st. 7 Ibs. Pickford (S.H.) Heavy : Fairgrieve (S.H.) AJ.Bendall(C.H.) The points for the Cup were as follows :— 1. Castle House 9 pts. 2. School House 7 pts. 3. Hostel 5 pts. 4. Chappel's 3 pts. Ipt. 5. Creighton's A. F.

HOCKEY. The Hockey Club was formed at the beginning of this term with some difficulty, owing to a certain lack of support. This was happily overcome after a little delay, but it was decided to make no fixtures. The Under 15 state of the ground left something to be desired, as 1. Hostel (45 pts.) 1. A. G. Green (Ch.). heavy rain early on prevented much rolling or cutting. 2. School House (51) 2. Clarke (S.H.). However, we soon got started, and many hard games T fChappel's House (67) 3. Clinch (H.). were played before Standards Practice began to encroach t Creighton's House (67) 4. N. McKerrow (S.H.) onto the pitch. A short but vigorous season was made 5. Castle House (95) 5. Bridgman (H.). more enjoyable by the support of Mr. Burnett and Time : 17 min. 15 sees. Mr. Ward, to both of whom we are very grateful. S. M. L. FIVES NOTES. The standard of Fives this term has much improved. Out of the five School matches played, four were won. A triangular match was played at Hereford, between Hereford Cathedral School, Christ College, Brecon, and ourselves. Another was played here between Warwick School, Hereford School, and ourselves, but had to be cancelled owing to rain. The results of the fixtures were as follows :— Bromsgrove School Away Lost, 70 pts. to 75. King Edward's School, Birmingham Home Won, 90 pts. to 45. Won, 80 pts. to 60. Bromsgrove School Home Hereford School Away Won, 60 pts. to 30. Christ College, Brecon Away Won, 55 pts. to 28. The 1st IV was represented by C. M. Lavender, J. H. Policy, J. H. Trape", H. W. Hinds. The 2nd IV, represented by A. E. Baldry, L. C. Jones, D. C. Fox, and M. B. Knapp-Fisher, won against Bromsgrove School (at home), drew against Hereford School, and lost to Bromsgrove School (away). C. M. L.

BOXING NOTES. Boxing this term has been considerably hampered by other activities ; but in spite of this, some quite good fights were seen in the competition.

SCOUT NOTES. The Easter term does not usually provide many opportunities for Scouting activity, but we have made the most of what chances we have had. At a patrolleaders' meeting held at the beginning of term a programme was evolved for the members of each patrol to work for a badge. The candidates have not yet appeared to pass the tests, but every hope is held of the success of the scheme. A team has been formed by Carstairs to compete in the Ambulance Competition for the Ogilvy Cup. Last year the team gained second place in the competition, and is fully determined to gain first place this year. We wish them every success. The troop held its Field Day on the Old Hills, on March 18th, and had a very successful day. The numbers were smaller than usual, owing to several of the senior members having joined the O.T.C., but this gave the younger members a good opportunity to show their worth. M. H. Anstey and Bailey acted as Troop Leaders for the day. D. C. Bendall is now Patrol Leader of the Castle House Patrol, but otherwise the officers remain unchanged. The following new scouts have joined :— Charlish, Harrison, and Lister. * * # Troop Leaders :—Bough, Fairgrieve. Patrol Leaders :—Price, S. B. Harris, L. C. Jones, Carstairs, Bagenal, Waterhouse, D. C. Bendall. R.H.B.

THE VIGORNIAN.

April, 1938 CHRISTMAS CONCERT.

We cannot record last term's Concert better than by reprinting the following from Berrow's Worcester Journal of Saturday, December 25th. " School Concerts all over the country seldom change in character with changing years, and that of Worcester Cathedral King's School on Monday, at College Hall, was one of those happy exceptions which prove such a rule. Indeed, this dignified end-of-term function was enlivened by a situation which might have been pounced upon by Ian Hay to illustrate the lighter side of school life. It happened in this wise. Parents and friends walking or motoring towards the Hall noticed and remarked upon overhead wires spanning College Green from School to Hall. The boys, however, seemed pledged to silence, and thus when the assembled company noticed a loud-speaker flaunting its modernism in defiance of the mediaeval character of the building, a general sense of expectancy pervaded the assembly. Hazardous speculations were forgotten as the enthusiastic school choir thundered forth the sonorous, awe-inspiring School song, " Floreat." This was followed by Dr. C. Armstrong Gibbs' setting of Alfred Noyes' poem, " The Highwayman," and the choir, conducted by the assistant Cathedral organist •(Mr. Edgar F. Day) plunged into the adventure with verve. The chromatic themes were as typical of Dr. Armstrong Gibbs' style as his pleasant song, " Five Eyes," and suggested the romantic tragedy of an amorous gentleman-of-the-road and his hopeless love for an innkeeper's black-eyed daughter. G. A. Baker, O.V., accompanied with sympathy and skill. Patience subsisted and the audience listened attentively as the School orchestra played Gluck's " Dance of the Blessed Spirits " from Orpheus, and Beethoven's easy-as-pie, " Minuet in G." One could forgive the players switching over to sugary 18th century and offering a soporific in place of the previous tour de force. A pleasing baritone, S. N. Hackwood, O.V., proved a great favourite with his interpretation of Roger Quilter's delicate Shakespearean songs, " O Mistress Mine," and " Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind." Ireland's " Sea Fever " was an admirable encore, and Hackwood made Masefield's verse convincing. Then came the great moment. Patience was rewarded as the Headmaster announced that the famous vocal quartette would not be able to appear as in former years, because one of its number, Mr. A. D. Franklin, Classics Master, was confined to his room with a cold. (Subdued murmers of disappointment). Mr. Wilding poured oil on the troubled waters by hastily adding that the quartette would not be seen, but that arrangements had been made whereby members would be heard. In other words, a microphone had been installed in Mr. Franklin's room, and his fellow singers had there gathered that their combined efforts might be broadcast to the Hall ! The other members of the quartette were :—Messrs. H. E. Nicholls, E. F. Day, and G. K. Tattersall. All eyes and ears were strained towards the loudspeaker trumpet as a warning " plop " and a hissing noise told the audience that contact had been established.

As the quartette gave their inimitable version of J. B. Bridge's two humorous part-songs, " The Flirt," and " Bold Turpin," listeners imagined the scene in Mr. Franklin's bedroom, with the bed as centrepiece ! The applause was terrific even though it was wasted on a soulless loud-speaker. The surprise item was the event of the evening. After the interval the chorus were better suited to the quieter mood of " Let Strife Cease, Welcome Peace," from Handel's opera, " Berenice." The orchestra followed with Rubenstein's " Melody in F," and Ambroise Thomas' " Gavotte," from " Mignon." Both were very pretty and pleasing. Professor Victor Hely-Hutchinson's Handel parody, " Old Mother Hubbard," was sung in engaging fashion by Hackwood. Then over to the sick bay again to hear the quartette romping their carefree way through two modern nursery rhymes, " Simple Simon " (Macey) and " Peter Piper " (C. Hutchins Lewis). The applause was unrestrained, the ovation justified. A seasonable peace was restored for the three carols by the choir which concluded the concert, " All this night shrill Chanticleer " (English traditional), " When Christ was born " (A. H. Brown), and " In praise of Christmas " (17th Century air). So ended a concert which will take its place in the traditions of Worcester Cathedral King's School. " Floreat Schola Vigorniensis !"

MR. SELWYN DRIVER, O.V. On February 5th, an audience of over 400 parents, friends and members of the School, gathered in College Hall to hear Mr. Selwyn Driver give another of his inimitable entertainments. A number of the more senior members of the School remembered the last occasion on which Mr. Driver came down in July, 1932, when he not only gave an entertainment at the Speech Day Concert but also presided at the O.V. Dinner. Once again his versatile skill in entertaining, his wit and clever parodies won much applause and laughter. In thanking Mr. Driver afterwards, the Headmaster remarked that the personal element in the entertainment had provided a delightful contrast to the mechanical productions of the wireless and the cinema.

" TWELFTH NIGHT " and " THE TEMPEST." On Thursday, March 3rd, we were entertained in College Hall, by Mr. Alfred Lugg, who delivered a most interesting lecture on " Shakespeare, with special reference to ' Twelfth Night' and ' The Tempest.' " The lecturer began by giving us a very brief account of Shakespeare's life. He then went on to take us through "Twelfth Night," taking most of the parts himself as they came. This was extremely interesting as in some cases the characters were set in a light quite different from that in which one had formerly imagined them. Mr. Lugg portrayed his characters extremely well and clearly, and in spite of the setting one could imagine

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oneself in the cellar with Sir Toby Belch and Sir Andrew Aguecheek, or in the garden with Olivia and Malvolio. Mr. Lugg then went on to deal with " The Tempest " in the same way. Here again his characters were excellently portrayed, Caliban in particular being most uncouth. The Lecturer was unaware, perhaps, that most of us had read the plays previously. Under the circumstances, therefore, it was not necessary to describe the actual courses of the plays ; explanations of style or plot might have been more useful, especially for Certificate purposes. However, we must not be ungrateful, and we all enjoyed an excellent evening's entertainment.

FIFTY YEARS AGO. (From the Editorial of The Vigornian of November, 1887). As we conclude we wish to take this opportunity of thanking the Bishop for the excellent motto which he has given the school, and which we have placed under the heading of this magazine. For the benefit of our younger readers, we give the Bishop's own English rendering :— " I learn what can be taught by other persons ; I search out what can be found out by my own exertions ; the wisdom that cometh from above I pray for continually." OXFORD LETTER. To the Editors of the Vigornian. OXFORD, MARCH, 1938. Sirs, News of the school filters through at intervals. We were most glad to hear of Mr. Strong's recovery. We hear also that a new cross-country course, distinctly longer, has been mapped out, and wish you joy of it. Someone was always saying that the old course was too short. We wish we could be on the spot to see you run over it. One of us has even suggested that he would like to try himself. This brings us to the subject of ourselves. A. J. N. RICHARDS (Hertford). Though now an ancient to most of us, is still seen quite often in College. Attends more lectures than most people (13, to be exact), and has an exam, in the near future. As for recreation, we understand that he rides a horse, but he goes so far away to do this that unfortunately we have never seen him. Still takes photographs, and rides his bicycle, with the old familiar pack on his back, but tells fewer travelling yarns now. J. F. LISTER (Keble). Works very hard, and is rarely seen. Disports himself in the Keble fives court. We had hoped to find out some funny story about him, but have not succeeded. J. L. WARREN (Hertford). Rarely seen, as he is now working for his finals, he tells us. Still seems to find time to play soccer, and goes on every away match available. Seems to encounter difficulty in retaining

April, 1938

his games clothes, and puts up frantic notices demanding their return. Goes for long walks on Sundays with Lawrey. R. C. HICKS (Keble). Refuses to tell us anything about himself, except that everything we said about him last term applies this. Appears to be leading a more or less respectable life. J. D. EVANS (Worcester). Represents his college at Athletics. Is taking part of P. Mods, this term, so attends lectures regularly. Makes many speeches in the Union ; his first effort was described as a very amusing maiden. Looks very unsteady on a bicycle. (We wonder who is to blame, the bicycle, its owner, or Evans). B. S. ECKERSLEY (Hertford). We congratulate him on getting through P. Mods, on one term's work. Is now reading History. Plays squash regularly, and not only threatened to take up Hockey, but appeared in two matches. Once amazed someone by calling on him at 8.15 a.m. (Knowing his usual hour for rising, we wonder if this can be true). J. F. LAVENDER (St. Edmund Hall). We congratulate him on passing his French " Group " last term, and also on being awarded his College rugger colours. Belongs to many societies. Protests against being visited by other O.V. at 8.15 a.m. (So it is true). A. C. WHITE (Keble). Taking P. Mods, this term, and consequently works late at night. Lives a very sociable life, as far as we can gather, from the number of people he manages to squeeze into his room. J. A. LAWREY (Exeter). Sent many valentines to . . ? Received a visit from his brother one week-end. Is working for P. Mods, this term, and has decided to read Theology after that. Lives quietly on the top floor of a staircase. We were very pleased to see Brooks the weekend he stayed with Lister in Keble ; Bolland, too, paid us one of his all too brief visits at the same time. We cannot close without congratulating Steward on being awarded an Exhibition at Hertford. Wishing you all the best of everything for the holidays, for Easter, and for next term, We are, Yours, etc., OXON. THE DUKE OF YORK'S CAMP, 1937. This year, the Duke of York's Camp was held as usual at Southwold, from July 29th to August Sth, and no better week could have been chosen. There was no rain during the whole Camp and the temperature varied between 70° and 80° but this did not make camp life too hot, as the Camp is situated on a high common overlooking the sea, and there was a fresh sea breeze blowing all the time which made the weather conditions really ideal. The purpose of this Camp, which was founded 16 years ago by H.M. the King, at that time the Duke of York, was to provide an opportunity for students and artisans to meet socially on common ground and by means of the daily enjoyment of camp life, to establish

April, 1938

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perfectly natural friendships and in this way get to know " the other man's point of view." There can be no doubt of the benefit to be gained from this system for, from the contacts established at this camp, springs a certain outlook on life which one has not hitherto appreciated, and should prove in future years an invaluable aid in promoting a better understanding between men in every walk of life. The organisation and daily routine of the Camp call for nothing but the highest praise. The Camp is divided into 20 sections and there are 20 boys in each section, 10 being from Public Schools and 10 from Industrial areas. All Section Leaders are old Camp boys and so were also the Members of the Camp staff. The Camp is under the command of Capt. Paterson, who is both an inspiring leader and organiser. Every morning the whole Camp competed in intersection games, which included various ball games, obstacle races, weight throwing, tugs-o'-war, and on the last day of camp, a cross country run. All these games are peculiar to the Camp, and so arranged that no boy shall have the advantage of any previous experience in them over his fellow. The Camp is only half a mile from the sea, and the whole camp bathed twice every day. Every night there are excellent entertainments in the Entertainment Tent, which is large enough to seat 600. These entertainments consist of sketches, songs and various other musical items provided by members of the Camp, and also the latest up-to-date Talky films. The most exciting day of Camp was, of course, that of the King's Visit. His Majesty made the first flight of his reign to come from Windsor to Southwold and reached the Camp about 11.30 a.m. Owing to pressure of State duties he was unable to spend his usual night in Camp and, indeed, could only stay till 3 o'clock ; nevertheless, he had lunch with the whole camp at which His Majesty and also several other well-known and interesting personalities, such as Lord Aberdare, Sir William Firth, and Mr. Geoffrey Dawson, made some extremely interesting and amusing speeches. The King's visit, though short, certainly made a very great impression on everyone. Before that one had rather the idea that he was continually surrounded by the pomp and ceremony which necessarily accompanies his rank, but this illusion was soon dispelled. The King strolled around the Camp in cricket shirt and shorts, not accompanied as usual by any officials or detectives, but by a crowd of enthusiastic boys to whom he talked as easily and naturally as if he had known them all his life. His visit was a revelation, particularly to those who had not previously seen him, of how our King can maintain the dignity of the British Crown and, at the same time, never lose his charming, friendly, and essentially natural personality. On the last night of Camp, a huge bonfire was lit on the Marshes, and around it all the members of the Camp's staff were chaired and shewn, in no mean way, how well the whole camp appreciated their efforts, which had been directly responsible for the great success of the whole week.

On the following morning everyone returned by special train to King's Cross, and there the party broke up. One's only feeling on the breaking up of the party was of regret that such an experience cannot be repeated. Indeed, all that I can say is, that anyone who desires a perfect camp holiday will have that wish fulfilled as a member of the Duke of York's Camp.

M. B. D. (The above was written by M. B. Davies, who, with A. W. R. Pettigrew, represented the School at the Camp.—Eds. Vig.).

THE PLAY-READING SOCIETY. The Play-Reading Society continued its meetings this term with Mr. Ward as President. Owing to Mr. Ward having to move from No. 9, our place of meeting has had to be chosen again, and after being lost in the vast and solitary splendour of the School House Dining Hall, we have at last decided on the Reading Room for further meetings. This term, we have read Patrick Hamilton's " Rope," Shaw's " Arms and the Man," and Priestley's " Laburnum Grove." We should like to take this opportunity of thanking Mr. Ward for his support during the past season. S. M. L.

SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING SOCIETY. As this has been a short term, not very many meetings have been held. P. Shovelton has been appointed to represent Hostel on the Committee. On February 22nd the Society visited Messrs. Ebenezer Baylis's printing works. Members were shown first how type is set up, then the foundry, and later the printing department. At a meeting on February 27th a lecture on navigation was given by Commander Spreckley, R.N. This lecture has originally been intended for last term, but had to be postponed. Commander Spreckley explained the general principles of the methods by which a ship's position is plotted on a chart, the principles of magnetic compasses, and the precission of a gyroscope. At a meeting on March 20th, W. J. Ward. gave „ - _ a_ 1lecture on " Railway Locomotives," illustrated by a filn film. It was hoped to arrange a visit to Messrs. Heenan and Froude's works, but this was not possible.

R. T. L. A.

TABLE TENNIS CLUB. Following a suggestion in a recent Vigornian a Table Tennis Club was formed early in the term, and immediately became extremely popular. Within the first week of its formation there were 96 members, and during the next month the membership increased to

THE VIGORNIAN.

over 100. Two tables were purchased and placed in the Gym., and although they have to be put away frequently to make way for other activities, each member can have at least two games a week. It is to be hoped that the present popularity of the game will continue. J. H. F.

CHESS. This term, as a result of a letter to The Vigarnian of last term, we introduced a Cup Competition run on lines which were different from those of previous years. Each House sent in a team of four, each team playing the others. The result is not yet to hand, but at the moment of going to press Chappel's House seem to be doing best, although Castle House have not yet lost a match. There will be " Knock-Out" Competitions every term, and next term we hope to arrange matches with the Royal Grammar School and the College for the Blind. We ought to be able to raise quite a useful team from the House teams submitted for the Competition. P. Me. E.

April, 1938

Lower V. Orchard, M. (1935-37). Castle House. 2nd XV Rugger, 1935. 1st XV Rugger, 1936-7. 2nd XI Cricket, 1937. Cadet, O.T.C. Middle IV. Rich, I. M. (1935-37). Creighton's House.

SALVETE. Lozcer V. Clarke, B. S. School House. Nicholls, J. A. Castle House. Upper IV. Havard, C. Castle House. Middle IV. Castle, R. J. Creighton's House. Harrison, R. Hostel. Russell, J. F. B. Hostel. Watkins, S. R. Castle House. Lower IV. Bishop, B. E. G. Castle House. Goss, R. H. K. School House. Lister, P. V. Hostel. Lower School.

VALETE. Modern VI. Bird, J. C. (1935-37). Hostel. 1st XV Rugger, 1936-7. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. "A," March, 1937. Bryer, W. N. (1930-37). Chappel's House. School Monitor. 1st XV Rugger, 1935-6. Secretary of Rugger, 1937. 2nd XI Cricket, 1936. 1st XI Cricket, 1937. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert "A," March, 1937. Cant, F. E. V. (1935-37). Hostel. 2nd XV Rugger, 1937. 1st XI Cricket, 1936-7. 2nd IV Fives, 1937. Secretary of Shooting, 1937. Cpl. O.T.C., Cert. " A," November, 1936. Francis, J. (1932-37). Creighton's House. Kirkwood, A. J. (1934-37). Castle House. 2nd XI Cricket, 1937. Cadet, O.T.C., Cert. " A," November, 1937. Upper V. Curtis, F. J. (1932-37). Creighton's House. School Monitor. 2nd XV Rugger, 1936. 1st XV Rugger, 1937. 2nd IV Rowing, 1936. 1st IV Rowing, 1937. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A," March, 1937. Ewins, J. B. (1931-37). Creighton's House. Cadet, O.T.C. Hollyer, P. L. B. (1935-37). Castle House. Shooting VIII, 1936-7. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A," March, 1937. Neale, P. (1935-37). Chappel's House. 1st XI Cricket. 1935-6-7. Cadet, O.T.C. Phillips, J. C. (1935-37). Creighton's House. 2nd XI Cricket, 1937. Poths, H. D. (1934-37). Hostel. 1st XV Rugger, 1936-7. 2nd XI Cricket, 1936-7. Shooting VIII, 1937. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Cert. " A," March, 1937.

Layton, J. R. Hostel. Williams, D. R. P. Creighton's House.

CONTRIBUTIONS. GLIMPSES INTO THE FUTURE. The Minute Book of the Games Committee, Feb./30/49. A meeting of the Games Committee was held in the Headmaster's Study at 2.30 p.m. on the above date. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and signed. The first point on the agenda was put forward by the Secretary, who said that considerable confusion was caused in the 6th game by the fact that the goal-posts at either end leaned in opposite directions at angles from 40° to 60°. The Committee were invited to suggest some explanation of this curious phenomenon. After a general discussion, Mr. Faugh-Leigh, the Table-tennis Coach, suggested that it was purely a matter of wind ; two simultaneous blasts of wind, such as are not uncommon in February, blowing in opposite directions, would produce the required effect. Opinion was divided over this point, and about half the members raised the objection that the wind does not blow two ways at once. Although Mr. Faugh-Leigh defended himself by saying that the river was very high at the time, it gradually became clear that his theory was considered inadequate. At the point, the Chairman handed cigarettes to the members of the Staff, one of whom absent-mindedly offered them to the Captain of Chess, who was sitting close to him. When the cigarettes eventually found their way back to the Chairman, he took the remainder for himself, and threw the packet rather grimly into the fire.

April, 1938

THE VIGORNIAN.

The Captain of Rugger now stated how he once saw a sheep in the field shortly before sunset, and he felt sure that the animal was only waiting for night to fall before it set itself to rub its back against one of the posts. This was thought to be highly significant by several members, who noted the fact in their diaries. The Secretary, who was himself a member of the 6th game, said that the sheep was not the only offender. Wild birds of all descriptions were in the habit of perching on the tops of the goal-posts, and he remembered one crow which sat in this position for nearly three weeks, when it was dislodged by an attempt at goal. This revealed that the bird had laid an egg, which subsequently fell off onto the head of the captain of colours. [The Chairman indicated to the Secretary that the previous anecdotes should be omitted from the Minutes, as being irrelevant]. Amid the general discussion of animal tricks and habits, the Chairman was starting a story about a dog he knew, when the Secretary of the C.F.C. (Caterpillar Fanciers Club) produced a new theory. He said that when a try was scored the losing side usually leant against the goal-posts to revive themselves. He therefore moved that a barbed-wire entanglement should be erected round the base of each post, and that the Treasurer should obtain estimates from the contractors for the posts to be sunk in a firm foundation of ferro-concrete. After further prevarication by the Treasurer, during which the Games Fund was mentioned several times, the motion was passed by 4 votes to 1. It was now getting late, and those members of the Committee, who were still awake, began somewhat covertly, to refresh themselves with chocolate, ginger biscuits, cheese, etc. Shortly afterwards, as the boys had to return to their Houses for Evening Prayers, the Chairman declared the Meeting closed. Noel.

MEDITATIONS. This stuff's too dull. I cannot understand How folk remember—who found Lenin Land, Or when was—someone—killed at Peterloo ? I cannot learn it—yet what can I do ? I must do something ; boredom is far worse When caused by idleness. I'll write some verse : " 'Twas on an April day when first I heard The sweet shrill piping of that songful bird ;" (I must not let him see me doing this !) " I listened hard, for fear that I should miss One soft sweet sound from that . . . . " Oh, help ! I'm caught ! His eyes are rather sharper than I thought. Why aren't I working ? Better watch my step ? (All this because I wrote some verse in prep !) Three hundred by tomorrow ? Thoughtless brute ! The fire is quenched : now must the muse be mute.

ROMAN HISTORY IN THE LAST CENTURY. [While burrowing through some old books, manuscripts, etc. in the 6th Form Room this term, I counted myself very fortunate when I discovered an old notebook, presumably dealing with Roman History, dated 1868. As I think it of great historical interest I have published below a typical extract]. Short notes on the Naval engagement in the Gulf of Sciatica. I. Re the Carthaginian force on the mainland, i.e. the Sciatic Plain. This consisted of about 300 Hoplites (N.B. large numbers) and a store of food, e.g. " 2 bananas." (N.B. Lucius Laringytis, in recording this event, probably said : " duo milia," not " duo " as in the text). II. Re the war in Sordid Arabia, i.e. between the Arabs (headed by Camelhairbarbus) and the Barheinians. See Heatland 240 foil. N.B. Do not confuse action off Cape Hypocondriae with the engagement at the Tooth of Teruel. Note importance of Queen Puma and the Illyrian pirates in the Adriatic exped. In view of extreme diff. (abbreviate) of Roman task and the aggressive naval policy of such countries as Ethiopia, Cisalpine Gaul was bound to be out of touch with H.Q. cf. Caesar's winter quarters in the Albanian campaign. (Trace progress of the tribuneship down to Pompey with spec. ref. to (i) secessio, (ii) interregnum, (iii) latifundia, (iv) checks on the imperium, e.g. chances of assassination). III. Extract from the Roman authors re the war in Arabia. N.B. Roman lit. of this period not v. " epochmaking," but extant works comparatively well-known. Silius Longipes, (flor. circa 192). Known only by two works : De Longipipe and Longipipiania. De Long. Ch. 2. Sect. 3. " In Libyia pugnatur ferociter et in Libya ferociter pugnatur." This shows that there was an action, or perhaps several, in Ethiopia,—or poss. the result of party faction in Somalia. This, it may be surmised, finally caused a fatal fracture in the Rome-Adowa axis. IV. Re actual engagement, note as follows : Superiority of Roman arms, e.g. (i) Catapults— great range, and steep trajectory enabling them to penetrate behind the gunwales of enemy ships, (ii) Short sword more convenient than pike (do not confuse with spike), (cf. Cato at Pydna c. 350 B.C. and Badajoz c. 1800). (iii) Great stopping power of Roman rostrum, with tendency to hole the enemy below water-line. (Note effect of salt-water on catapult charges stowed in forecastle, i.e. inclination to fail to explode on reaching objective). THE PAST. When I view the years behind me, Thinking—" Surely they will find me— Who come after—something more than Just a man who wasted time ;" I recall the vision sadly Of the years I lived but badly, And I think that I was nothing More than one who wasted time.

THE VIGORNIAN. For at School I was a bully, And I realise it fully, When I think how I was hated In the days of long ago ; And of work I made no trial— Masters met with flat denial— Even then I was a slacker, In the days of long ago. To the crimes that I committed I was surely the most fitted, And my name to those that follow Is a synonym for Wrong ; And my fellows came not near me— There were some would even fear me— Everyone of them knew clearly I was always doing wrong. When, on life at last embarking, I was satisfied with larking, I soon found myself in prison, But I could not mend my ways ; On the downward path I started, And my wife was broken-hearted— For, although she oft besought me, Yet I did not mend my ways. Though the past I try to soften Of its memory of often Being punished for a deed which I regretted evermore, Even now I can't erase it, So henceforward I must face it, And my past must live for ever— I'll regret it evermore. IMPROBUS ANSER.

THE LAST NIGHT. " Three more weeks and eleven more days and I'll be out in the open again." These wonderful strains came flowing from the pavilion as I sauntered across the field on the last day of term. Being of a rather inquisitive nature I went over and investigated and found all the little cricket balls dancing about the floor in the pavilion. I watched them full of amazement through a crack in the window. At last the song stopped. All the balls sat down in a ring and began to talk. They talked about the coming season and listened to advice given by one of the elder balls who sat in the middle of the ring, playing with his large walrus moustache. He was telling them about his experiences—just as all old people like to do —what a marvellous feeling it was to be knocked high in the air and land the other side of the boundary for " six." He said he hoped they would all have that wonderful sensation plenty of times in the coming season. He related how he had laughed when he had just tipped the edge of the bat and then run straight into the wicket-keeper's gloves—how he loved hitting his old enemy, the wickets, and especially that beastly middle stump—it was a wonderful feeling to send all three spinning out of the ground.

April, 1938

" And these bowlers ! Well of course you cannot really compare them with the ones my father was used by when he was out in India, yes, that's right, out in Poona, way back in '86 you know !" he said, slapping his leg, " But you can't expect all these whippersnappers to turn into Larwoods, can you ? No, of course not, that's right, I am glad you agree with me, but I expect you will enjoy yourself all the same 1" " Yes, it's a marvellous feeling to go soaring up into the sky and fall straight into somebody's hands,—of course you can always tell whether the fielder is an experienced player or not by the way he catches you, if he holds you like father holds the baby you know he is a jolly inexperienced player and next time you go anywhere near him see that you land on his thumb, yes that's right, or even the end of his little finger will do, and he will never attempt to catch you again, no never, not even . . . . " " Bump ! Ugh ! O Lord ! Where am I ?—Oh yes, I remember, it was our bean-feast last night—yes that tenth cake certainly was rather a big one !—and this bed is so uncomfortable . . . . "

J. H. P.

THE COMPOSITE MASTER. It really is incwedible, You silly little boy, The very small amount you know, Of dear old Ancient Troy ! You wooden-headed fool, by Gad, Back in Barbados, now, I'd give you six with my bare handFor there I was a wow ! To register this do not fail, God bless the crows, tut ! tut ! I'll give you a bad copy, boy, You really are a mutt ! Take up thy pen and quickly write, Each howler fifty times. For great shall be the fall of those, Who write such futile rhymes !

CORRESPONDENCE. To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, Every term there appears on the School notice-board a notice stating that the Vigornian is going to print on a certain date ; this is followed by an exhortation to all and sundry to write something for what is, after all, our" magazine. However, the majority of people who read this notice immediately say : " I can't be bothered to write anything," or " Even if I do write the Editors will not print it, if they know it comes from

April, 1938

THE VIGORNIAN.

I should like to say, first, that it is no real hardship to sit down and try to write something, and secondly, the people who accuse the Editors of suppressing articles are completely wrong. Surely we can trust these Editors, who do so much hard work in their spare time so that we can have a magazine at all. Let us, therefore, in future, try to help instead of hinder the Editors, whose job is already hard enough. I feel sure that if everyone pulled their weight next term and gave them a fair deal, we would have one of the best Vigornians we have ever had. Hoping that this letter will move at least a few conscientious people to do their " bit" and give the Eds. Vig. a " break." Yours, etc., R. L. L. (R. L. L. seems to be made of the same stuff that editors are made of. It may interest him to know that the response this term was distinctly gratifying. —Eds. Vig.).

To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, We would like to suggest through your columns that wire-netting, say 4 feet high, should be put on the bike shed roof. This would save many tennis and rugger balls from bouncing or " trickling" over the edge into the gardens on the other side, and would save trouble for those in the gardens, who keep on finding balls in their flower beds. Yours, etc. P. McE. M. D. E.

The long race obviously could not be held in a swimming bath, but the diving, sprints, backrace, relay race, etc. could easily be held there. An obstacle race, a life-saving demonstration, or even a game of polo, would greatly add to the interest and foster a keen spirit among swimmers. Yours, etc., J. H. P.

To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, We are sure that there are many keen anglers in this School who would welcome the institution of an Angling Club. If the club were instituted, the enthusiasm of its anglers would undoubtedly rise to such a pitch as to enable inter-house competitions to be held. We are sure that such a club would be well worth founding; many who have not attempted angling before would have a great chance of enjoying this instructive hobby and healthy sport. Yours, etc., J. G. M. W. P. P. J. A. N. (and eight others). (While not wishing to damp the spirit of the School anglers, we feel that they should find enough leisure at home to indulge in this " instructive hobby," and enough exercise at School to render its adoption as a " healthy sport" unnecessary. Eds. Vig.).

J. H. F. CONTEMPORARIES.

To the Editors of the Vigornian. Sirs, Would it not be possible for something to be done to enliven the swimming sports ? At present they are fitted in at any odd time and the result is not very pleasing. Would it not be possible to hire Parks' Swimming baths for the afternoon and make it into a social event to which parents and friends could be invited ?

We acknowledge with thanks the following contemporaries, with apologies for any accidental mistakes or omissions :— Bloxhamist, Cheltonian (3), Decanian (2), Felstedian, King Edward's School Chronicle, The Limit, Monktonian, Monmothian (2), The Portcullis, St. Edward's School Chronicle, St. Michael's Chronicle, Tonbridgian, Wulfrunian.