THE VIGORNIAN THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE TA MEN AIAAKTA MANOANS2, TA A'ETPETA ZHTtt, TA A'ETKTA 1IAPA OEiiX HITH2AMHX.
APRIL, 1939.
Vol. XIII. CONTENTS. Editorial School Officers School Notes House Notes Rugger Notes Rowing Notes Fives Notes... Cross Country Run Boxing O.T.C. Notes Shooting Notes Band Notes ... Scout Notes Camera Club Stamp Society Golf Club Play Reading Society School Concert Lectures Debate " Foreign Affairs " Fifty Years Ago The First King's Scholars Valete Salvete Next Term O.V. News Births, Deaths, etc. Obituary Oxford Letter Contributions Correspondence Contemporaries
Page 110 111 111 112 113 113 114 114 114 114 115 115 115 115 116 116 116 116 117 117 118 118 118 119 120 120 120 120, 121 121 121 122 122 123
No. 153.
EDITORIAL Nowadays when one can never tell exactly what is going to happen from one day to the next, it is interesting to consider with what feelings different people open their Newspapers every morning. The average working-man opens his " Daily Flash " at the centre page, reads through the news of certain horses and dogs, and remarks on the latest happenings in Europe, or on the possibility of a general election. Beyond that he finds no interest in his paper, but turns to his eggs and bacon. The city-worker turns to the financial news, reads it through with many a knowing wink, and then perhaps glances at the headlines of the centre page. The politician scans the parliamentary reports at great length, reads the leading article and proceeds to criticise it in the light of his own political opinions. The journalist, on the staff of another paper, hurries through whatever part of the paper happens to be in his line, be it the reports of crimes, or the Law Courts columns. Maybe he hopes to obtain a fewideas for his own paper. Then we have the rich sporting gentleman who looks at the weather forecast, taps the barometer, and condemns the meteorological experts as liars. There are the " old maids " who turn straight to the crossword puzzle, and after discovering that they have got yesterday's quite right, proceed to finish to-day's before their breakfast is over. There are the children who pass over everything till they come to the cartoons or the " Pip and Squeak" stories, spreading the paper most laboriously over the carpet in doing so. There are housewives who scan the latest fashion reports, look for bargains in the advertisements and cut out the recipes for to-night's supper. Then, most pathetic
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of all, the unemployed : man or woman, boy or girl, they all pore over the front pages looking for a situation vacant that would suit them. How disappointing must it be for them when the morning mail fails to bring one reply to their many applications ! Last of all what about the schoolmaster and the school-boy ? The former, so tradition tells us, reads the Times from cover to cover over his toast and coffee, and does the crossword while his egg is boiling. But it is to us, the boys, more than to anyone else that the morning paper is not only interesting but also exciting, something which is new each day, in contrast to the routine of school life. There is something for every age, for every type. The scholarly senior turns to the Times leading article, and reads it through with many a nod or shake of his head. The more frivolous of the seniors and most of the juniors eagerly rush for the Special Sports Section. For the moment everything else is forgotten in the excitement of finding that their football team has won. Then the bell for breakfast goes, and off we go to talk about it all through the meal. But one and all, financier and schoolboy, cannot help being concerned in the international situations of to-day. To everyone of those who see a morning paper, the developments from day to day mean one of two things ; war or peace. And can there be one of those millions of readers who has the least doubt as to which he would prefer ?
SCHOOL OFFICERS. Captain of the School Captain of Rugger Secretary of Rugger Captain of Boats Secretary of Boats Captain of Fives Captain of Shooting Secretary of Shooting Captain of Gym Sports Secretaries Captain of Boxing -
-
A. J. Bendall. C. M. Lavender. J. H. Folley. C. M. Lavender. A. J. Bendall. C. M. Lavender. A. J. Bendall. R. T. L. Allen. A. J. Bendall. f A. J. Bendall, l_C. M. Lavender. - A. J. Bendall.
Captains of Houses : — School House - C. M. Lavender. Castle House .- A. J. Bendall. Hostel - P. L. W. Shovelton. Chappel's House •> - H. W. Hinds. Creighton's House - C. F. Bryer. School Monitors : A. J. Bendall, H. W. Hinds, C. M. Lavender, J. H. Folley, C. F. Bryer. Editors of The Vigornian—A. J. Bendall, H. W. Hinds, J. D. Reynolds. Librarians—R. T. L. Allen, H. W. Hinds, J. D, Reynolds, D. H. Jones, C. F. Bryer. Wardens of the Reading Room—A. J. Bendall, H. W. Hinds.
April, 1939 SCHOOL NOTES
We offer hearty congratulations to J. D. Reynolds on being awarded a College Exhibition for Classics, K. Wedgwood on being awarded a Meeke Scholarship for Classics, both at Hertford College, Oxford, and H. W. Hinds, who has been awarded the Liddon Exhibition for Modern Languages at St. Edmund Hall, Oxford. * * * We congratulate Miss Campbell on having two of her water-colours hung in the Exhibition of Contemporary Midland Art at Birmingham. A number of senior members of the School are indebted to Miss Campbell and Mr. Ward for enabling them to visit this Exhibition. # * * The School attended Matins in the Cathedral on Ash Wednesday. A departure from the usual custom was made when the Thursday afternoon Lenten Services were this term transferred from the Choir of the Cathedral to College Hall, at which the Precentor gave a course of informal addresses. A new School Athletic Fixture was inaugurated on Saturday, March 18th, when senior members of the School took part in a cross country run with the Worcester and County Harriers over the School course. A report appears elsewhere. # * * C. F. Bryer and J. G. Morris played Rugger on several occasions during the holidays for the Worcestershire Schoolboys in a series of fixtures against Schoolboys from Herefordshire and Oxfordshire and scratch teams, arranged by Mr. Cedric Humphries, the Worcestershire and Herefordshire three-quarter. # * * We have had three School Services in the Lady Chapel this term and we have one more to come. The addresses were given by Minor Canon Woods on January 29th, and by the Headmaster of Bromsgrove School on February 26th; the last address was given by the Warden of St. Edward's School, Oxford, on March 26th. We also had a School Service in College Hall on Sunday, March 12th, when Mr. Macdonald gave the address. # * # Many O.V. will regret to hear of the death of Mr. G. Latham, who has been Bandmaster for the last thirty years. Capt. Strong represented the School at the funeral, and buglers from the O.T.C. sounded the Last Post. An obituary notice appears elsewhere. # * * To the general disappointment, it has been found necessary to postpone the School Play to the beginning of next term, because of the quarantine. Rehearsals for Macbeth have taken place almost every evening this term, and we hope to give a successful performance on Monday, May 15th. # * * On Monday, March 27th, the Lord Bishop of Worcester confirmed 20 members of the School in the Cathedral.
THE VIGORNIAN.
April, 1939 HOUSE NOTES
SCHOOL HOUSE HOUSE MONITORS : C. M. Lavender, J. D. Reynolds, R. M. Dobson, D. C. Fox, K. Wedgwood. A pleasant surprise awaited us at the beginning of this term. Our dormitories have been completely repainted, the one in a pleasing shade of green, the other in light blue. We also came back to find that Miss Masson had left us and we welcome Miss Ure in her stead as housekeeper. We have unfortunately had a very severe bout of 'flu this term and most of us have at some time been in bed. It is rumoured that a few found it so pleasant that they thought fit to retire a second or even third time ! This is, perhaps, a tribute to the able handling of Matron, and we sympathise with both the Headmaster and Mrs. Wilding who have taken no end of trouble to look after us. We extend our sympathy, too, to Goss who has been very seriously ill, and we hope he will enjoy a speedy recovery. Our efforts on the side of sport have, of course, been handicapped, but the juniors put up a very good show in the Belows matches, and so far we have been doing quite respectably in both Standards and Boxing. We must congratulate Thawley on winning the Junior Cross Country. Unfortunately in the Senior our best runners were unable to run, otherwise we might have shown the others a clean pair of heels (if such was possible on so muddy a course !). We entertain high hopes of retaining the Fives Cup, represented as we are, by Lavender and Fox. We wish the best of luck to Hulme, Evans, Wyatt, and J. C. McKerrow, who are taking their Certificate " A " examination this term. It is a great honour, we feel, that our Matron should have been one of a Guard of Honour for the King and Queen on their visit to Birmingham. She assures us that the agonies of cold she endured were well rewarded by an excellent view of Their Majesties. We shall be very sorry to lose Dobson and Thomas, and we wish them the best of luck in the years to come. To those returning we offer our best wishes for the Easter Holidays, and we hope that the cricketers will come back next term in fighting trim for that Cup we have promised ourselves. CASTLE HOUSE HOUSE MONITORS : A. J. Bendall, J. H. Folley, R. T. L. Allen. The House assembled this term with the expectation of doing great things in the various Easter term activities, and up to the present stage has more than justified its hopes. Our Belows team earned the right to share the Belows Cup with Chappel's House, after a memorable game in which Chappel's House was held to a draw by a weak but extremely enthusiastic team. Our next achievement was the gaining of second place to Chappel's House in the Cross-country, thanks to a great effort by all members of the team. There has been no other House event as yet but we have great
112
hopes of taking the Fives Cup from School House, of retaining the Boxing Cup and of carrying off the Sports' Shield. The House has been well represented in all the School activities, with Folley in the 1 st IV Fives, Shelton in the 2nd IV Fives, Ellison, Coles, Bowles, Morris and Shelton in the Colts team, and A. J. Bendall, Allen and Bearcroft in the Shooting VIII. This term has been a bad one for illness and the whole school has suffered severely, but, thanks to the care and attention of Matron, we have got off fairly lightly, although we have by no means been immune. We would like to end by wishing everyone a pleasant holiday, and by extending our sincere wishes to Havard for a speedy recovery from his illness, feeling sure that he will rejoin us next term as bright as ever.
HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : P. L. W. Shovelton, D. H, Jones, M. C. Jones. We were unlucky in losing two valuable members of the house in December, but we welcome Vivante who joined us at the beginning of the term. The hopes we held ten weeks ago for the Belows matches and the cross country were shattered by a most unlucky spell of illness. The epidemic of 'flu completely spoilt our chance for the Belows cup. For our first match v. Castle House we had practically a full team. After this, several people went to bed, so we had to scratch two other matches and play a seven-a-side with School House who were also unable to raise a complete team. We had high hopes of retaining the Junior Cross Country Cup, but unfortunately we were able to raise only three runners, and in the senior event there were only two who could run. On the eve of field day we were struck with three cases of Scarlet Fever, and the house was isolated from the rest of the school. On field day we went out on foot taking our lunch with us, and had a most enjoyable day. We are optimistically practising for the Standards, although in Bridgman, Cant and Pennington we have lost some useful runners, and it is possible that we shall not be able to partake in the events through still being isolated. The whole of the house is now in the O.T.C., and we congratulate Shovelton on being promoted to L/Cpl. We also wish D. H. Jones and Kemp the best of luck for Cert. " A," and sympathise with Goer who, after preparation for it, was in bed on the day of the exam. Shovelton, Allchurch, M. C. Jones and Bridgman have shot in the VIII in various matches this term, and M.C. also played in the 2nd IV at fives. Since the foregoing was written owing to more illness it has proved impossible for the House to take part in the Standards. We have, to the best of our ability, been carrying through a full time table of work and exercise, and everybody has kept very cheerful. We are glad to hear that the prompt isolation of our house has prevented the spread of infection in the School.
THE VIGORNIAN.
113 CHAPPEL'S HOUSE
HOUSE MONITORS: H. W. Hinds, J. J. Taaffe, A. G. Green. In the last two terms, by its large number of successes, the House has given ample proof, if indeed proof has ever been needed, that its enthusiasm and efficiency are as great as or even greater than they have ever been since the division of Day Boys into two houses. At the end of last term, although we had to face at least one other house team which was entirely composed of first and second fifteen colours, we easily succeeded in defeating all our opponents, thus gaining the House Rugger Cup to add to the Cricket Cup which we had won at the end of the previous term. Owing to the fact that a number of the members of the Senior House Rugger team were not included in the School fifteens, we were able to field an exceedingly strong Belows team at the beginning of this term. It easily defeated School House and Creighton's and obtained a walk-over against Hostel. It managed to draw with Castle House. In the Senior Cross-Country Run, we easily beat Castle House by a margin of 34 points and in the Junior were second to Creighton's House by a margin of 14 points. Our very special congratulations are due to Green, Taaffe, W. J. Checketts, Caldicott and Anstey, who were our first five home and all of whom came in the first seven. Sayce also ran exceedingly well in the Junior Race. With one or two exceptions, all the members of the House who are old enough to join are now members of the O.T.C. It was distinctly encouraging to note the large number of Day Boys on parade on Field Day. We have to congratulate Taaffe and Bough on gaining Certificate "A." The number of people playing Fives regularly has been maintained this term and Hinds has again been a member of the 1st IV, while Flay and Caldicott have both played for the 2nd IV. We offer sincere congratulations to Green on being appointed a House Monitor, and, having no further unconsidered trifles with which to litter the Vigornian, we close our notes looking forward confidently to the still further successes in the Standards and Sports Finals, which the general keenness and ability of the House deserve. CREIGHTON'S HOUSE HOUSE MONITORS : C. F. Bryer, D. E, Carstairs, R. C. Allen. This year, our Belows Team did not reach its usual standard. In our first two games we were weakened by several absentees through illness and we lost to Castle and Chappel's House. We finished third in the competition, since we won our last two matches against Hostel and School House by default. Although we had the individual winner, Bryer in our five, we lost the Senior Cross Country to Chappel's House whom we should like to congratulate on their fine performance. R. C. Allen, Ranford, Carstairs and Healey, all ran well to complete our first five home.
April, 1939
The Junior Team excelled itself by winning the Junior Cup for the first time, in grand style. The team consisted of A. M. Wilson, Malsom, Ayrton, Cullis and Dawes. Thus at present we have three cups in the Reading Room with the Section Shield proudly hanging above them. Four member of the House joined the O.T.C. at the beginning of the term, bringing our members to the highest they have been since our foundation as a separate house. Bryer was successful in the Certificate " A " examination last term and has been promoted lancecorporal. We wish Styles, D. W. Smith, R. E. Harris, and Carstairs good luck in their efforts to pass the examination this term. Many more members have been playing fives this term, which should raise the standard of House fives in the future. Although we do not possess a member of the " Fours " we hope to enter a House pair in the Competition at the end of the term. We have entered competitors in seven of the weights in the Boxing Competition who should do well. We wish them luck in their fights. It is very encouraging to see the revival in House fives and House boxing. We appeal to the younger members of the House to retain this standard in the future, and not to let either lapse again.
RUGGER NOTES The term was begun with expectations of great victories from the Colts XV, but these were not fulfilled. The School lost two away matches, the first against Warwick Colts 13—5, the second against Bromsgrove Colts 21—19. Both were very good games. It was impossible to put in any practice for the first three weeks of term, owing to the flooding of the river, and consequently the School did not work too well as a team. The School was represented by ; N. McKerrow, T. Bowles, K. S. Flay, W. H. B. Key, J. G. Morris, A. G. Green, D. H. Curtis, D. L. Shelton (Capt.), M. C. Jones, S. D. Ellison, J. H. Coles, P. H. Healey, J. C. Ranford, G. M. Allchurch, M. Anstey. The result of the Belows Matches was a tie for the Cup between Chappel's House and Castle House, who will have the Cup for six months each. C. M. L.
ROWING NOTES. An attempt was made this term by the Boat Club to augment its members from the ranks of the cricketers, by giving them an opportunity to row this term. We expect good results next term. Nor have the senior rowers been idle. A " Four " was trained up to row against a " Four" from Oxford on March llth, but the race was unfortunately cancelled. A possible 2nd IV also got to work, but gave up owing to the absence of its members. We made a step forward by going out in an " eight," which the Blind College kindly lent us, and found it very pleasant. We hoped to go
April, 1939
THE VIGORNIAN.
out in it several times, but by the time the river had dropped again to a possible level, it was time to start training the four. We have hopes of sending an eight to Mai-low next term, and of owning an eight ourselves in the near future. We thank Mr. Strong, Mr. Bentley and the Headmaster for the help they have given us, and hope that we shall be able to take full advantage of their coaching next term. C. M. L.
FIVES NOTES. At the beginning of term we were looking forward to a successful fives season, but unfortunately only one match could be played. The School was represented against Hereford School, by Lavender, Policy, Hinds and Fox, and after an excellent game, the School won 76—64. Matches were arranged with Bromsgrove, Brecon and Warwick, but these unfortunately could not be played. The School was represented against Hereford School 2nd IV by Shelton, Flay, M. C. Jones and Caldicott, and lost. The School is being represented by Lavender and Folley on April llth in the Public Schools Competition for the Testers Cup, at Dulwich College. The following were awarded their 1st IV badges for the Season 1937; C. M. Lavender, J. H. Folley, H. W. Hinds, D. C. Fox. C. M. L. CROSS-COUNTRY RUN. The School Cross-Country took place on Monday, March 6th. It was run on the same lines as last year, with two exceptions. In both races, each House entered a team of eight runners, the first five of whom were to count in the result. Owing to the increase of runners, it was decided to cut out the part of the open course which runs through Perry Wood. The Under 15 course remained the same as last year. The results were as follows :— OPEN : 1. Chappel's House (24 pts.) 1. Bryer (Cr.) 2. Castle House (58 pts.) 2. Green (Ch.) Time ; 27 min. 53.2 sees. UNDER 15 : 1. Creighton's House (33 pts.) 1. Thawley (S.H.) 2. Chappel's House (47 pts.) 2. Sayce (Ch.) A new fixture was arranged this term in the form of a Cross-Country run against the Worcester and County Harriers. This took place on our own course on Saturday, March llth. The Harriers had four of their best runners away, and therefore did not have their best team out. The hospitality of the Harriers after the race was much appreciated. RESULT : 1. Bryer School (28 pts.) 2. Green Harriers (53 pts.) 3. Hale (Harriers) 4. Bearcroft Time : 26 mins. 37.8 sees. 5. Hurley (Harriers).
114 BOXING.
Boxing has been carried on under House arrangements, and despite the reduction in the number of fights, some good contests were seen. In the Competition, Castle House retained the Cup for the fourth year in succession. Creighton's House however, made a very strong effort to take it away from them. The results of the finals were as follows : Bendall (C.H.) beat Jones (H.) by default Shelton (C.H.) „ Wright (Cr.) Bryer (Cr.) ,, Folley (C.H.) on points Checketts (Ch.) ,, Bowles (C.H.) Bearcroft (C.H.) „ Wilson (Cr.) „ „ Knapp-Fisher (S.H.) ,, Davidson (Ch.) Clarke (S.H.) ,, Kirkwood (C.H.) „ Healey (Cr.) „ Dawes (Ch.) Bailey (Cr.) „ Beckley (C.H.) Castle House 10 pts. Creighton's House 8 pts. School House 4 pts. Chappel's House 1 pt. Hostel A. J. B.
O.T.C. NOTES. The following were successful in the November Certificate " A " Examination ; Cadets Bough, D. C. Bendall, Bryer, Taaffe, Shovelton. The results of this term's Exam, are not yet known. Promotions : Cpl. Dobson to be Sergeant. Cdt. Shovelton ,, L/Corporal. Cdt. Bryer ,, L/Corporal. Appointments : Sgt. Dobson to command No. 4 Platoon. Nine recruits joined the Corps this term and are being instructed by L/Cpl. Bryer. Field Operations took place on March 8th on Bromyard Downs. A White force, consisting of 2 skeleton platoons commanded by Under-Officer Bendall, was retreating on a line Bromyard—Ludlow. It took up a defensive position on Bromyard Downs, and was attacked and defeated by the Advance Guard of the enemy, consisting of 3 platoons under C.S.M. Lavender. Considerable difficulty was experienced during the day, owing to the very strong wind, which prevented Section Commanders from realising that they were under fire. As a result, sections were inclined to advance over open ground under heavy fire, as if there was no opposition. Apart from this, manoeuvres were well carried out. The Defence was given considerable help by their very efficient spy, whose presence was not detected among the Attack. A. J. B.
April, 1939
THE VIGORNIAN.
115 SHOOTING NOTES.
SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING SOCIETY.
As the majority of those eligible fired on the miniature range last term, this term has been largely devoted to practising the VIII and reserves, who have reached a far higher standard than usual. Shooting Matches : Feb. llth. v. Framlingham College. For 594 pts. Against 510 pts. Result: Won by 84 pts. Feb. 18th. v. Elizabeth College, Guernsey. (S.M.R.C. conditions). For 578 pts. Against; 714 pts. Result: Lost by 136 pts. Feb. 25th. v. King's College School, Wimbledon. For 586 pts. Against 649 pts. Result: Lost by 63 pts. March 18th. v. King's College, Taunton. For 603 pts. Against 624 pts. Result: Lost by 21 pts. March 18th. v. Trent College. For 603 pts. Against 638 pts. Result: Lost by 35 pts: The " Country Life" Competition was fired on March 18th, and resulted in a better score than last year. Estimated Individual Scores :
As this has been a very short term, and owing to the illness of two lecturers, no lectures have been held so far. Also, because of the large number of other events, it has not been possible to arrange any visits. Arrangements have, however, been made for the Society to use the school workshop, and a supply of metal-marking tools has been bought. To pay for this it has been decided to raise a small terminal subscription. It is hoped that it may still be found possible to arrange a lecture after the time of going to print. R. T. L. A.
Group.
C. S. M. Lavender Cdt. Caldicott Cdt. Price L/Cpl. Bearcroft U/O. Bendall L/Cpl. Allen Cdt. Allchurch L/Cpl. Shovelton
10 2 10 5 10 5 10 10
Rapid. Snap. L'dscape. Total.
46 47 47 47 50 46 47 46
201 25 j 251 25 ] 10", 15j 251 20 j
48
198
39
198
34
170
21
179
Grand Total 745 BAND NOTES. The Band is very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Latham, who had suffered from a long illness. We feel sure that the band owes not only its past triumphs but also its whole existence to the untiring energy of " the Bandmaster." A notice appears elsewhere in this issue. The activities of the Band this term have been somewhat cramped owing to the ravages of 'flu, etc. However we have been doing our best with the small remnant. Mr. Casseldon left us after the first few weeks and in his stead Sgt. Priddey came down from the Barracks to instruct us. He is very popular with the whole band and has taught us many useful things, including a new method of sounding the Retreat. Owing to "flu, the band was unable to parade on Field Day as had been intended. This was a great disappointment for everybody, but it was considered best to cancel the arrangement since with only three drummers fit, we could hardly hope to keep up our reputation in Worcester. We have had one or two recruits this term but our chief cause for satisfaction has been the astonishing improvement of those of last term, who have become so good as to be hardly distinguishable from those of longer experience. J. D. R.
SCOUT NOTES. The Easter term does not provide many opportunities for Scouting activity, but the troop has by no means been idle. Each patrol has been working for a specified badge, which has made matters much more interesting, and several junior Scouts have passed Tenderfoot and 2nd Class tests. The isolation of Hostel has unfortunately put Mr. Pedder and D. H. and S. M. Jones' patrols out of touch with the troop, but next term we shall be able to make up for lost time. An Ambulance Class was formed this term, consisting of Bailey, Dowse, Thomas, Tolley, W. Anstey, Clifton, Healey and Rowan, and entered a team for the Ogilvy Cup competition ; the class was trained by Sergeant Carstairs, to whom we offer our grateful thanks for the trouble he has taken. Considering the youth of its members, the team did most remarkably well to score only two points less than the winning team. In keeping with tradition an Easter camp is being planned for next holidays, and we hope it will be favoured with the fine weather which attended last year's camp. Field Day this term, which was held on Kempsey Common, was attended by twenty Scouts. M. Anstey, Thomas, Annis and Bailey supervised the examinations in Tenderfoot and Second-class tests, which were taken at the ends of four separate trails radiating from a centre, instead of the usual round trail. In the afternoon a new round game was played. Dowse, Rowan, Clifton and Tolley acted as P.L's. Troop Leaders ; Bough, D. C. Bendall. Patrol Leaders : S. M. C. Jones, Wedgwood, D. A. Jones, R. E. Harris, Key, Price, Green, Wilson. R. H. B.
CAMERA CLUB. Our programme of activities this term has been interfered with very considerably by illness and bad weather. There have been only a few days when photography would have been possible, and the fact that the Easter term is always fuller of school games and so on, than any other term, made it rather difficult for much to be done.
116
THE VIGORNIAN.
April, 1939
The Club has continued to increase in numbers, and there are now thirty-one members. The Ilford News has proved an extremely valuable asset, and, together with the Amateur Photographer, which is now being purchased by the Reading Room, will form the chief items of photographic information. At the end of last term, a lecture was given by one of the members of the Society on " Night Photography." This lecture was kindly lent by Ilfords, and contained some very interesting photographs of London by night. It had been intended that a lecture should be given this term by one of the Ilford lecturers, who devotes his time to the Midlands, on either " Miniature Photography," or " Photography by Artificial Light," but up to the time of going to press, this has not been possible. However, the coming Cross-Country and Sports should provide a considerable amount of material for the Headmaster's prize, and we look forward to fine weather next term. P. E. H.
THE STAMP SOCIETY. The Society has held several meetings this term, and the systems recommended before Christmas with regard to the running and organisation, have been found to work successfully. Some difficulty was experienced in the beginning, but as soon as members knew of the general demands, exchanges followed quickly. However, in spite of the fact that a suitable time has been found for meetings which does not interfere with other School activities, the attendance has been very poor. The success of this society depends upon the active co-operation of each individual member, and it was hoped that at least one or two of the Committee would attend occasionally. W. J. W.
GOLF CLUB. At the beginning of the term, much to the delight of several members of the School, Mr. Bentley arranged with the Tolladine Golf Club for the use of their course on week-days. A Golf Club was thus formed, consisting, at the moment, of ten members, who are able to play during their spare time, and who have made the most of their opportunity, especially during the few wet weeks at the beginning of term. J. H. F.
by Shaw. Although it brought out the great problem of class and racial differences, the first play did not appeal to many of the readers. It lacked conviction, and had rather an anticlimax at the end. " Laburnum Grove " however, was quite a different thing. The witty dialogue, humorous ' serious ' scenes and the tense interest aroused were much appreciated. It is agreed by most members that the best play we have read recently was " Pygmalion." The analogy between the Cypriot king and the single-minded Professor Higgins is remarkable. In conclusion, we wish to congratulate Wedgwood on his very successful reading of Eliza Doolittle in this last play. W. J. W.
SCHOOL CONCERT. In spite of the cold weather, a large number of parents and friends of the School gathered in College Hall on Monday, December 19th, for the end-of-term Concert. As usual the whole audience rose at the beginning of the Concert to join in a hearty rendering of the School Song. Then followed C. V. Stanford's setting of the Irish ballad " Phaudrig Crohoore " which was tackled with success by the choir, the accompanist being G. A. Baker, O.V. The orchestra played the ballet music from " Rosamunde " (Schubert) and Hungarian dance (Brahms) and then followed the two part-songs " Autumn Song" (Mendelssohn) and " Shepherd, Shepherd, leave your labours," from " King Arthur " (Purcell). The singers were J. M. Ansell, J. G. W. Ayrton, P. D. Clifton, J. P. McGill, F. F. Phillips, M. J. Wells, and M. G. E. Williams. No concert would be complete without those delightful quartets which year after year earn unwavering appreciation. This year, concluding the first part of the programme, Messrs. H. E. Nicholls, E. F. Day, A. D. Franklin and G. K. Tattersall gave us J. M. Gallatly's plaintive " What a Life ?" and Hubert Parry's immortal setting of Goldsmith's " Mad Dog." After the interval C. A. Myers gave a sympathetically rendered pianoforte solo Impromptu in C minor (Schubert). This was followed by the fascinating Festival chime from the Welsh melody " St. Denio " (arr. by Gustav Hoist) admirably sung by the choir. The quartets " An old rat's tale " (J. F. Bridge) and " Oh ! the Noble Duke of York " (arr. by Byng Johnson) yielded the inevitable encore.
THE PLAY-READING SOCIETY. Unlike those of some of the School Societies, our activities have not been curtailed by the outbreak of illness which has occurred this term. The three plays read were " Loyalties " by Galsworthy, " Laburnum Grove " by Priestley, and " Pygmalion "
The concert concluded with three carols accompanied by the orchestra—" O little town of Bethlehem " (English Traditional), " God rest you merry gentlemen " (Traditional, London) and " Rejoice and be merry " (Dorset).
THE VIGORNIAN.
117 LECTURES.
ELECTRIFICATION OF SOUTHERN RAILWAY. We were once more favoured with the presence of Mr. Davis on Tuesday, March 7th, when he gave a lantern lecture in College Hall on the Electrification of the Southern Railway. In introducing his subject, Mr. Davis gave a short history of the progress in travel speeds, from the invention of the wheel to the coming of electricity. He gave an illustrative example of how electric trains facilitate station clearance and then proceeded to describe the construction of these train ' sets." Although this was very instructive, a little more detail with regard to the actual motors, or some slides of the motormans' compartment would have been of interest here. The various extensions of the Southern Railway and the buildings which they entailed were described, including the refitting of Waterloo Station, the Wimbledon " fly-over," the bridging of the river at Lewes and the construction of a remarkable signal cabin at Waterloo. The lecture concluded with a short description of some of the improvements effected in station planning and building due to electrification. By the Headmaster's kindness, Mr. Davis was enabled to answer several questions in the Headmaster's drawing room after the lecture.
UNIVERSITIES MISSIONS TO CENTRAL AFRICA. On Sunday, the nineteenth of February, the Rev. Canon Broomfield, secretary of the Universities Mission to Central Africa kindly consented to give us a short talk in College Hall, after having preached in the Cathedral. He said that modern civilization had had a bad effect on the natives. Before the coming of white people, natives had been taught always to respect the elders of the tribe and all their behaviour was conducted on the basis of traditions which had been handed down from generation to generation. Now that European civilization has entered the country, and natives are encouraged to leave their tribes, and get work elsewhere, they do not know how to behave with regard to their superiors, and they have become degenerate. He told us about the work of the native missionary supported by the school, and thus enabled us to realise what was being done with our contributions to the mission fund, in the diocese of Zanzibar.
DEBATE. It is to be regretted that there has only been one debate this term, for the one we did have was well supported and very much enjoyed. This took place on Sunday, March 12th, in the Reading Room, Mr. V. J. Wrigley taking the Chair. Mr. Macdonald moved that: "A strongly armed Britain is a force for peace in the world." He had no doubt that everyone was unanimous in the desire for peace, and differed only in the method by which peace was to be attained. We are all Pacifists at heart, in that we wish for peace, but we do not all agree that
April, 1939
unilateral disarmament is the best way to attain our aim. He then went on to show that the possession of force was essential in order to preserve peace. He quoted a passage of Shakespeare : " It is excellent To have a giant's strength, but it is tyrannous To use it like a giant." and emphasised that the more strength you have, the less you need to use. He illustrated this remark by similes from home and school life and the work of our Police Force. He concluded by saying that a time may come when everyone is ready to abandon force, but at present the disarmament of one nation would not contribute to world peace, but the reverse. D. L. Thawley opposed the motion. He maintained that the only reason he had discovered why Britain should be strongly armed was that the other nations would fear to enter into a war against us. He held that man should no longer be repressed, and that by repressing an evil the evil gathers strength to break out more violently in another place. We have, he maintained, no right to make use of our position as owner of a fifth of the world's surface, by setting ourselves up as international judges, and the policemen of the world. The best way to remove war is to remove the instruments of war. By arming, we waste our resources and we endanger the peace of the world by creating the instruments of war. We should turn our energies to the things that matter: our Cathedrals, Schools, Towns, and everything of which we are proud as Englishmen. Every nation maintains that its arms are only for defence, but war is equally destructive both to victor and vanquished. Thus by piling up huge quantities of armaments, Britain is hastening a world war. H. W. Hinds seconded the motion. He began by going back to the Treaty of Versailles. He considered that it was because of the attitude of the Allies at that time that Germany was now in the position she was. We had supported the League of Nations, which had been unable to carry out its aims properly because of insufficient co-operation between the League members. He then went on to emphasise that the rulers of the totalitarian states were not normal ; that they were, in fact, madmen, and should be treated as such. How can we deal in a normal manner, with men who glorify war, and who imbue their followers with the Nordic fighting tradition ? Mr. Jenkins, the local secretary of the P.P.U., seconded the opposition. He began by saying how staggered he was with the present armament bill. It was useless to attempt to realise what the colossal and almost astronomical figures meant; it was also unfair to coming generations, which would inevitably be born in debt. He appealed to the House to think how much better it would be to spend the £17,000,000 needed to build a battleship, on works of peace. In Germany, he said, as a result of the overwhelming burden of arms expenditure, hardly any of the inhabitants earned more than three pounds a week. J. S. Wyatt supported the motion. He criticized the use of statistics by the opposition, and protested against the partiality of the Chairman. A. J. Bendall said that since it was possible to build two really large battleships, and not one, with
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April, 1939
£17,000,000, he sincerely doubted if the other statistics were correct. VV. P. Paterson said that surely it would be better for our children to be born in debt than not born at all. The following also spoke ; F. G. Trow, B. S. Clarke, P. E. Hulme, D. V. Evans, T. Bowles, R. T. Allen. Mr. Jenkins then summed up for the opposition, and Mr. Macdonald for the proposers. The latter maintained that though the honourable opposers had spoken very well, they had not proved their point, namely that Britain should disarm. They had merely emphasised wishes which the proposer himself supported. The House then divided, and the motion was carried by an overwhelming majority. The Chairman ended the debate by expressing his thanks to Mr. Jenkins, and the hope that next year the Debating Society would be more in evidence. H. W. Hinds also expressed thanks to Mr. Jenkins on behalf of the School.
" FOREIGN AFFAIRS." On Saturday, March 18th, we welcomed Mr. A. L. Stewart Todd, former M.P. for Kingswinford, who gave us an informal talk on Foreign Affairs. Mr. Todd began by reminding us that even M.P's. have their bit of fun, for at his last meeting he had thrown out six Communists who made themselves objectionable. He had, he said, made a study of humanity and now felt that he knew how much an audience would listen to before getting restless. Mr. Todd then turned to affairs of the moment. He declared himself to be a firm supporter of Mr. Chamberlain, and maintained that the policy pursued by the Prime Minister during the last year was the only one possible. Non-intervention in Spain, he claimed, had saved a general conflict in Europe, even though certain disadvantages had to be suffered. Again, in September, 1938, Mr. Chamberlain knew that England was in a poor position to fight, and appeasement was in the interests of the country. Moreover Mr. Todd felt that the Prime Minister had really believed that the promises made by Herr Hitler would be carried out, and that was why Mr. Chamberlain had come home so confident in future peace. Mr. Todd also asserted that every day of peace that could be gained should be valued. This was not the last of Hitler's moves in Europe, but the trouble was that no one knew exactly how he could be stopped. Mr. Todd then asked the audience to put forward their views, and to ask as many questions as they liked. The School responded valiantly, and many difficult and varied questions were asked. Mr. Todd answered them all quickly and fully. It is true that Mr. Todd expressed the opinion of the Conservative party, but we hope to hear members of other parties give their opinions in the future. If their talks are all as interesting and amusing as Mr. Todd's, we can well look forward to them.
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FIFTY YEARS AGO. (From The Vigornian of 1889). EDITORIAL. The Easter term was remarkable for the rapid development of the Rowing Club. We do not mean by this that the school has seen the birth and growth of a new institution during the last two years. The Rowing Club is in fact one of the oldest clubs in the School ; but for some time past it has occupied a false position. It has offered, in the summer term, a counter-attraction to cricket, and the result has been that neither has flourished with that vigour which it might otherwise have displayed. The best thing that could be done under the circumstances was done last year. The Rowing Club agreed to confine its efforts to the Easter term ; and so far as the Club is concerned, the agreement has been honourably kept. But we are not disposed to shut our eyes to the fact that many fellows who have been materially benefited by the renewed vitality of the Club do not seem to recognise that it is their business to see that Cricket also reaps some advantage from the new arrangement. It stands to reason that if half the school never show their faces inside the Cricket-field, the compromise will not effect much good in this direction. Such fellows are not merely allowing a branch of their school games to suffer by their neglect; they are doing a selfish and dishonourable thing. Of course there are exceptions, where circumstances may prevent one or another from attending practices. But the rule holds good ; and the sooner these fellows learn to act like gentlemen and public-school boys, the better for everyone.
THE FIRST KING'S SCHOLARS. In my History of the King's School (p. 65) is printed, facing a facsimile of the original manuscript, the list of forty boys who in 1543-4 were paid, " hoc Anno ut in precedentibus," their " salaries " as King's Scholars. As the School had been founded only a year, most if not all of them must have been of the original forty. It would be a fitting part of the forthcoming Quatercentenary celebration if some progress could be made in the identification of these names, many of which are sufficiently uncommon to afford hope. By way of a start, and to encourage further research, the list is here repeated with a few tentative identifications, some of which I owe to Mr. C. V. Hancock, O.V. ACTON, CHARLES. Of Elmley Lovett; younger bro. of Sir Robert A., Kt. (Nash, I, 258 ; Grazebrook, 3). ALEN, THOMAS. BADNECHE, JOHN. BALLE, JAMES. BELL, NICHOLAS. Rector of St. Peter's, Worcester, 1582—7. (Nash, II, 324). BLOUNT, FRANCIS. 2nd son of Walter Blunt, Esq., J.P., who died 1561, monument at Astley (Nash, I, 43) ; but compare pedigree of Blount, Nash, II, 162. BLUNT, JOHN. BOYLE, ROGER. Son of Anthony B., layclerk 1543 (Leach, 159). BROWNE, GEORGE* Son of Richard B., Prebendary of 2nd Stall 1541—6.
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BUCK, RICHARD. Probably of Kempsey (Nash, II, 19). BULLYNGDON, WlLLIAM.
COLYS, EDWARD. Of Hanbury, husbandman, c. 1610 (Q.S.R., 148) ; or of Claines, husbandman, c. 1616 (Q.S.R., 220). COMBEZ, JOHN. CONNYSBYE, RICHARD. PConingsby ; of Rock and Hampton Court, Herefordshire (Grazebrook, 129). CROFT, JOHN. Co-heir of Sir John Beauchamp (Nash, II, 352 etc.). CURCKTEN, THOMAS. DEDYCOTE, Roger. Son of Richard D., clothier of Worcester, who was aged 52 in 1558 (Leach, 201). EWER, JOHN. Son of Richard Ever, Prebendary of 3rd Stall 1541—58. FOLYATT, NICHOLAS. Of Pirton ; marr. Elizabeth, d. of Norman Washburn (Nash, II, 258 etc.). FOSTER, EDWARD. FYTKYN, JOHN. GEFFREYES, HENRY. Henry Jeffreyes, of Ham Castle, only son of William J.; marr. (1) Anne, d. of John Walsh of Shelsley Walsh ; (2) Anne, d. of Thomas Barnaby of Bockleton and widow of John Coningsby of Neen Sollars ; d. 1583 (W. A. S. x. 1, 2, 32). GRABLE, JOHN. " John Grabell of Bushley dyed sodenly, as some suppose from taking over much drink, and was buried the third day of February, 1586." (Upton-on-Severn parish register, quoted by Lawson, The Nation in the Parish, or Records of Upton-on-Severn. p. 32). HUNCKS, WILLIAM. IVYNS, HENRY. JOLYFF, THOMAS. Son of Henry J., Prebendary of 4th Stall 1541—59, Rector of Bishampton, Dean of Bristol 1554; or of Cofton Hackett (Nash, I, 251). LYGONS, JOHN. MARYETT, EDWARD. MYDDELMORE, HENRY. Probably of King's Norton (Grazebrook, 375). PEREN, JOHN. John Perin, incumbent of Churchill 1584 (Nash, I, 193). PYGEON, JOHN. SUTEBOLTE, WlLLIAM.
SUTTON, LEWIS. TOWSON, THOMAS. TYNDALE, WILLIAM. WELLYS or WELLES, HENRY. WELNESFORD, EDWARD. WRYGHT, HUMPHREY. WRYTTE, NICHOLAS. WYLDE, JOHN. Eldest son of Simon W. of the Ford, Droitwich, and brother of Thomas W. (died c. 1558) of the Commandery, Worcester, gent. (Marsh, Annals of the Hospital of St. Wulstan, Pedigree at end).
April, 1939 REFERENCES.
NASH : Collections for the History of Worcestershire. LEACH : Documents Illustrating Early Education in Worcester (Worcs. Hist. Society). Q.S.R.: Quarter Sessions Rolls, 1591—1643, (Worcs. Hist. Society). W.A.S.: Transactions of the Worcs. Archaeological Society. GRAZEBROOK : Heraldry of Worcestershire.
I should like to add that I have made considerable progress with a Register of the School. I have transcribed the names of all the King's Scholars in the Treasurer's Accounts in the Chapter Library from this list until 1700, and have succeeded in identifying, with varying degrees of probability, quite a number of them. There is little likelihood of this work being printed (unless in instalments over a period of years in the Vigornian), but when it is as complete as it can be made I propose to deposit a typed copy in the School Library. Meanwhile I should gratefully welcome any help that anyone is able to give. A. M.
VALETE. Modem VI. Roberts, A. (1935-1938). Creighton's House. Upper V. Jones, L. C. (1934-1938). Hostel. School Monitor. 2nd XV Rugger, 1936-7. 1st XV Rugger, 1938. 1st IV Cox, 1936. 2nd IV Fives, 1938. Shooting VIII, 1938. Troop Leader of Scouts. L/Cpl. O.T.C. Kendall, J. R. F. (1935-1938). Chappel's House. 2nd XV Rugger, 1937. 1st XV Rugger, 1938. 2nd XI Cricket, 1936-7. 1st XI Cricket, 1938. Richardson, J. H. (1937-1938). Hostel. 1st XV Rugger, 1938. Cdt. O.T.C. Hoddinott, P. F. (1932-1938). Creighton's House. Lower V. Mann, G. W. (1934-1938). Chappel's House. 1st XV Rugger, 1936-7-8. 2nd XI Cricket, 1938. Smith, G. (1932-1938). Chappel's House. Cdt. O.T.C. Workman, G. R. (1935-1938). Chappel's House. Cdt. O.T.C.
THE VIGORNIAN.
April, 1939 SALVETE. Upper IV. Vivante, A. Hostel. Middle IV. Houghton, R. Chappel's House. Wright, P. P. Creighton's House. Lower IV. Davidson, P. H. Chappel's House.
NEXT TERM.
Tu. May 2nd Boarders Return. 3rd School Assembles. W. S. 13th Cricket v. Worcester Nomads. M. 15th School Play. 20th Cricket v. Worcester City. S. 24th ,, v. Bloxham School. W. 27th ,, v. Magdalen College School. S. Tu.&W. 30-31st King's Scholarship Examination. Cricket v. Hereford Cathedral School. S. June 3rd Rowing v. Cheltenham College. Tu. „ 13th Cricket v. Dean Close School. Th. „ 15th S. 17th Half Term. 24th Marlow Regatta. S. 24th Cricket v. Malvern Middle Club. S. ,, n. Bromsgrove School. S. July 1st 8th ,, v. Monmouth School. S. 12th „ v. Warwick School. W. 13th O.T.C. Inspection. Th. 14th Speech Day. F. S. 15th O.V. Day 31st Exeunt Omnes. M.
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another Old Boys' side in another League. There are 150 boys in the Club, and there is an attendance of 60 to 80 boys a night. He has a very busy time, but finds the work interesting.
E. J. Davies (School House, 1910-1912) is Director and Sales Manager of the Wandsworth Electrical Manufacturing Company, D'Arblay Street, Wardour Street, W.I., and would welcome a call or few lines from any O.V. of his time.
We have to apologise for an error in the O.V. News of last term's Vigornian. J. A. Wagstaff (Day Boys, 1927-1932), passed the final examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, and not as an Incorporated Chartered Accountant as reported.
At the request of the Corporation of Brighton, H. D. Roberts (1881-2) has written the official History of the Royal Pavilion, Brighton (Country Life 21s.), the famous specimen of Regency architecture, for the care and restoration of which he has for some time been responsible. H. C. F. M. Fillmore (1915-22), who since 1932 has been Town Clerk of Warwick, has -been appointed Superintendent Registrar for Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth.
BIRTHS. O.V. NEWS. W. D. Battershill (School House, 1907-1914) has been appointed to the extremely important post of Governor and Commander-in-Chief of Cyprus. He went to Cyprus in 1934 as Colonial Secretary, and since 1937 has been Chief Secretary in Palestine. This notable appointment was marked by an extra halfholiday. * * # A. Brent-Smith (1904-1907) played the principal piano part in his own Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra at a recent Concert of the Worcestershire Choral Society. The second piano was played by Sir Ivor Atkins. Captain J. C. Flay (Day Boys, 1919-1924) of the 67th (South Midland) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, has been promoted Major with seniority August, 1938. H. P. E. Pereira (School House, 1921-1924) is Warden of Wolverhampton Boys' Club No. 2, and has 24 football teams, the Senior and Junior Leagues of the Boys' Federation, his own two teams from the Club, and
BOWSTEAD.—On February 7th, 1939, at 3, Courtfield Gardens, S.W.5. to Elsie, wife of John Bowstead, M.C., I.C.S. (School House, 1910-15)—a daughter. SLEATH. (Day Boy, 1929-31). On March 10th, at Tything Nursing Home, to Mr. and Mrs. Laurence Sleath—a daughter.
ENGAGEMENTS. PEREIRA—SKIDMORE. The engagement is announced between H. P. E. Pereira, (School House, 1921-24), of Wolverhampton's Boys' Club, No. 2, and Mollie, third daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. C. Skidmore, of Tettenhall, Staffordshire. EDWARDS—SELBY TANNER. The marriage is announced, and will take place on April 22nd, of G. W. Edwards (Castle House, 1929-33) and Peggy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. Selby Tanner, of 34, Ambrose Avenue, N.W.I 1.
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MARRIAGE. RABJOHNS (Day Boys, 1921-29)—JONES-WILLIAMS. In March, 1939, at Worcester Cathedral, by Canon G. W. Briggs, Philip David, only son of Mr. and Mrs. David Rabjohns of Worcester, and Oldine Mary, daughter of the late Mr. T. J. Jones-Williams, of Hallow.
DEATHS. COUNSELL. On March 6th, at Appleby, Hugh Alfred Counsel!, (1884-1887) aged 71.
OBITUARY. HUGH ALFRED COUNSELL, O.V. 1868—1939. The death on March 6th at the age of 71 of H. A. Counsell removes one of the most notable Vigornians of the days of Mr. Bolland, and one of the founder members of the O.V. Club. The entertaining reminiscences that he contributed to the History of the King's School naturally did no justice to the important part that he himself had played in all the activities, intellectual and athletic, of the life of the school, of which he was one of the acknowledged leaders. Leaving School in 1887, he went with the Meeke and Dean Peel Scholarships to Hertford College, Oxford. In 1895 he took a post at Appleby Grammar School, Westmorland, and six years later was appointed to be its Headmaster. In the thirty years of his rule, he raised the numbers of the school from 35 to over 100. After his retirement in 1932 he continued to live in Appleby and served the town in many ways, notably during his year of office as Mayor. All his life he was an ardent cricketer, and is said to have made more centuries fo( the Appleby Cricket Club than any other member. He was also closely connected with the Appleby Golf Club and the Cumberland Otter Hounds. He was a man of wide interests and great popularity. He leaves a widow, one son and three daughters. BAND MASTER G. LATHAM. Died 20th March, 1939. Mr. Latham was appointed Band Master in 1909, when the School Contingent of the O.T.C. was first formed. In the following summer the Contingent was awarded a prize for drumming at the first camp it attended, and this was the inauguration of a long series of successes by the Band, for which the Corps has realised that it has had mainly to thank its Band Master. For thirty years he continued to win the esteem, and even the affection, of successive generations of buglers and drummers, not one of whom but will hear of his death with feelings of personal regret. The Corps, and the School as a whole, has lost a faithful servant and friend.
April, 1939 OXFORD LETTER.
To the Editors of the Vigornian. OXFORD, MARCH, 1939.
Sirs, This term has probably been much the same for us as it has for you—a somewhat bewildering mixture of rowing, rugger and all the other activities which have to be fitted in during the year. Unfortunately only one of our number is taking part in Toggers this term and but few in the various Cuppers, but that superiority of brains over brawn, which has always been so prominent a character of all Vigornians, is once more demonstrated by the successes achieved in political and dramatic circles. We have, been visited by that most common of all Easter term phenomena, floods, and we have enjoyed the exhilarating sight of college crews rowing about over what are normally green fields. Some of us, to our great pleasure, have encountered Mr. Creighton striding about the streets and in and out of art galleries and museums in familiar hat and overcoat. We only wish we had seen more of him. Finally, we have most of us found time to do a little work, as is amply proved by the late hours we seem to keep, or isn't it ? J. L. WARREN (Hertford). Is not in residence this term, as he is doing his term of teaching for a Dip. Ed. R. C. HICKS (Keble). We are very glad to hear that he is to be with us for a fourth year. Is reported to be working hard—a statement which we have no reason to disbelieve. Was seen at the Experimental Theatre Club's show, but retired in disorder after the first act. B. S. ECKERSLEY (Hertford). Is firmly wedded to the footlights this term. As Secretary of the College Dramatic Society, was largely concerned with its production of " The Dilettanti," in which he also took a part. Also took some small parts in the O.U.D.S. production of the " Duchess of Malfi," for which he received a mention in the Isis of almost greater length than his actual part ! Is to be congratulated on passing Part II of Cert. B. and on his subsequent promotion to the rank of Sergeant. J. D. EVANS (Worcester). Has been elected Treasurer of the O.U. Conservative Association—we bask in his reflected glory. Apart from numerous tutorials and lectures (so he tells us) moves entirely in political spheres, and is regularly to be seen on the Conservative platform at the Taylorian each week. Is reported to have told an M.P. a good story the other day, but we think it must have been the one we heard in College Green way back in '34 ! J. F. LAVENDER (St. Edmund Hall). Comparatively little has been seen of him this term ; we hear that he works all day so as to have his evenings free ! Played in a Rugger semi-final but without success. He has also been made a Sergeant in the O.T.C. J. A. LAWRY (Exeter). Tells us that he has taken some excellent digs for next year, close to the Station— we anticipate surreptitious excursions to London now and then. Frequents the cinema, but nevertheless does not appear to be financially embarrassed. Reads the " Daily Herald," but tells us he does it for purposes of amusement only.
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A. C. WHITE (Keble). Has abandoned his unequal struggle with nature and shaved off his incipient moustache. Has had only one game of Soccer this term, and has therefore had to take recourse to waltzing as a form of exercise. Says he is fast becoming a Fascist, but still goes to Labour Club Dances. D. B. STEWARD (Hertford). No sooner had he recovered from playing the part of a love-sick beau in the College Play (incidentally he has just been elected Secretary of the Dramatic Society for next year), than he was called upon to stroke the College 1st Torpid. At the same time he considered it necessary to launch out on a campaign of intensive legal study and consequently may be seen pattering along the Broad or cycling recklessly along the Towpath muttering things about " Night Starvation " and " Poise on your Front Stops." Now, Sirs, all that remains is for us all to wish you a successful close to the term—and good holidays. Yours, etc., OxoN.
CONTRIBUTIONS. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE. How much ginger-beer is consumed every year ? How far did an arquebus carry ? Which covers most area, Kent or Samaria ? Whom did Copernicus marry ? Who is the tallest ?—the richest ?—the smallest ? The prettiest lady at Court ? What is the Greek for bubble-and-squeak ? And what is Peru's largest port ? What was the date of Darius the Great ? Who is the Mayor of Quebec ? Who invented bezique? Why was Moses called meek ? How many peas in a peck ? How many miles from Japan to these Isles ? How many Jews in Turin ? Can squirrels or weasels suffer from measles ? And when does pig-sticking begin ? What is the French for an A.R.P. trench ? Name all the parts of a yacht. What sort of soap is used by the Pope ? Is a mongoose a mammal or what ? How old is the Queen ? How wide College Green ? How many teeth has a shark ? How long would it take to empty a lake ? Of what sort of wood was the Ark ? What the answers may be to this riddle-me-ree I've no notion, but wouldn't I laugh If I could but get permission to set Such a paper each term to the Staff ! MINIMUS.
ALAS, POOR GHOST. Percival was by no means an ordinary ghost; he was one of that rare kind of ghost who would have warm hearts if it were not for the fact that they can't help being cold all through. He couldn't bear to see anyone in distress ; he simply had to help them, but his great trouble was that they were all afraid of him, so that he could never help them openly. He always had to do it without their seeing him.
One day a great misfortune overtook the family which lived in the house he haunted — his family, as he called them. The plumbers were in the house, as radiators were just being installed, and they had pulled up a floorboard in the drawing-room. One evening, when the workmen had gone, Mrs. Robinson (for that was the people's name) was unfortunate enough to drop a jewelled brooch down the hole. The workmen did not notice it when they returned next day, and swept some dust and shavings into the hole and replaced the board. But although Mrs. Robinson did not discover the loss of the brooch until several hours later, Percival noticed it lying there when he passed the hole on his midnight stroll. Thinking that the workmen would see it next day, however, he did nothing about it. But when he saw it still lying there the following night (for ghosts, you know, can see through walls and floors just as easily as they can walk through them) he began to get worried. Although it was quite a simple matter for him to put his hand through the floor and pick up the brooch, he could not pass the brooch through as well. He racked his brains trying to think of some way of returning the brooch, but try as he might he couldn't think of any way out of the trouble. There was nothing left for it but to tell the Robinsons where the brooch was, and leave them to get it out. But sad to relate, the brooch lies there to this day, as immediately Mrs. Robinson saw him she fainted, and Percival was so distressed at seeing her fright that he vanished away and never tried again. What can you do with people like that ?
ARIEL.
CORRESPONDENCE. To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, I feel it is time to complain about the use of such phrases in the Vigornian as : " at the time of going to press," or " we hope to report a successful result next term." The Vigornian comes out at the end of every term (sometimes later !) and we should like to feel that each issue contained a full account of that term's activities. Instead of which, the results of the House Cricket matches are usually tucked away in the December issue, when everybody, including the writers apparently, have entirely forgotten them. Could there not be a Stop Press News space in which important items could be added after the proofs have been printed ? This would do away with the necessity of waiting till the last minute before sending the paper to press, and would make each term's issue complete in itself. Yours etc. A READER. [While we thank our correspondent for the suggestion, we assure him and all other readers that there is no possibility of getting the Vigornian out by the end of a
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THE VIGORNIAN.
term and including in it reports of the matches etc. of the last few days of the term. " Stop Press News " is always added to the final proofs, which must go to press several days before the magazine appears. The only instance within the last five years of the Vigomian's appearing after the end of the term was caused by a miscalculation of the time required, and it was only one day late. Eds. Vig.]. To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, It seems to me to be a pity that so excellent a library as that in the Vlth Form Room should be so remote from the rest of the School. Since the School is soon to celebrate its 400th Anniversary, I submit that a new building should be started as a library in a more central position. The end wall of the Geography and Art Rooms has been purposely left to enable further extension, so why not make use of it ? Much apparently is going to be done for the sporting side, but why should not the scholars, for whom, after all, the school was founded, receive some benefit also ? Yours etc. ANOTHER READER. To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, With the summer term drawing nigh, summer games will be the foremost thought in our minds, among these the game of tennis. This is a game in which not many are really interested, and those who are usually are among the Seniors. But since there are some Juniors who enjoy a game, would it not be possible for these to join the club which was formed last year ? I am sure a few more members would be welcome. Why should not the court on the field be brought into use again, so that cricketers might be allowed an occasional game as well as the rowers who apparently have nothing else to do ? Yours etc. " RACKET." To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, The House Ties, though excellent for identification purposes among ourselves, do not serve to distinguish members of the school from the general public. Perhaps we should prefer to remain indistinguishable, but I do not think things have reached such a pass yet. I suggest that the present Colours tie should become the school tie, since blue and white are the School Colours, and that a new Colours tie might be designed, a little more worthy of the talents it represents. Yours etc. THE CADS. To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, There has always been a great deal of talk about building a Swimming Bath for the School, but as yet nothing has come of it. This, I presume, is owing to
April, 1939
lack of funds. I therefore suggest that we might overcome this difficulty in the same way as several other schools. Could not we make our own swimming baths ? There must be a few enthusiastic spirits left in this place who would not shirk a little spade-work. We should need, of course, a competent director who understood the job, but the scheme would cut down the expense by more than half. As to situation, I suggest that a few pounds might procure the area behind the gym, which is now full of old cabbage stalks. Yours etc. E. D.
To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, Would it not be possible for the School Stationery Shop to sell School notepaper and envelopes, such as is used for the posting of teams, etc ? I am sure there would be no financial loss in such a venture, provided that is, the paper was not too expensive for those of smaller means. Moreover it would surely be an excellent advertisement for the School, if everyone used crested School note-paper. I need hardly say that we should only be falling into line with other schools. Yours, etc. G. E. W.
To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, I suggest that swimming should be taken up in earnest next term. Parks' Baths were extremely popular last summer, so why not start swimming there, earlier in the term ? I am sure many others will support this suggestion. Yours sincerely E. L. P.
To the Editors of the Vigornian. Dear Sirs, May I suggest that a Cycling Club be formed amongst the Day Boys with a view to cycle runs during the holidays. Yours sincerely, THE CYCLIST.
CONTEMPORARIES. We acknowledge with thanks the following contemporaries, with apologies for any accidental mistakes or omissions :— Monktonian, Bloxhamist, Tonbridgian, St. Edward's School Chronicle (2), Cheltonian (2), Wulfrunian, Oceanian, Portcullis, Felstedian, St. Michael's Chronicle, Monmothian.