The Vigornian December 1943

See Report of Fourth Centenary Fund page 313.

THE VIGORNIAN THE WORCESTER CATHEDRAL KING'S SCHOOL CHRONICLE TA MEN AIAAKTA MAN9ANO, TA A'BTPETA ZHTO, TA A'ETKTA IIAPA OEON HITHSAMHN.

Vol. xni.

DECEMBER, 1943. CONTENTS.

Editorial School Officers School Notes House Notes Fourth Centenary Fund O.V.'s Serving in H.M. Forces .... ... Roll of Honour O.V. News Engagements, Marriages and Births ... Deaths J.T.C. A.T.C Red Cross Poems Poster Club The Scouts Soccer Notes Rugger Notes Bellrjnging The Debating Society Play Reading Society Music Notes The Dancing Club Sixth Form Club Valete Notes on John Toy and Thomas Taylor Correspondence

Page 310 311 311 312 313 ... 314 315 316 ... 316 316 318 319 319 319 319 320 320 320 322 323 323 323 323 323 324 ... 324 325

No. 164. EDITORIAL.

In his address in College Hall at the beginning of the term, the Headmaster made us all sit bolt upright in our seats, by telling us that the King's School was going to be the best school in'the country. There were many, no doubt, who dismissed the remark as wishful thinking, but we are certain that a large majority regarded his words as an ambitious ideal, for which it was well worth while to strive. Since then we have been striving for this ideal, but in a community there must always be many different conceptions of how things ought to be done. The theory seems to be to see the other man's point of view, and not to run down the efforts of others, the worst of sins, and a sin so easily committed. In spite of many conflicting ideas everything has run remarkably well this term, as the contents of The Vigornian will show, and there has been no listlessness, or lack of activity, that would make one think otherwise. Indeed there has been an epidemic of vandalism amongst the junior boys in the School, but we believe and sincerely hope that those responsible will soon acquire sufficient Public School spirit to realize the wantonness of such childish behaviour. We must, of course, realize that the School is now experiencing the birth-pangs of a new era, and though this may at present be painful, it will bear fruit in the future.

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SCHOOL OFFICERS. G. V. Marshall. Captain of the School R. W. Lambert. Captain of Rugger M. S. Clarke. Secretary of Rugger W. Davidson. Captain of Cricket B. J. Mallett. Secretary of Cricket M. S. Clarke. Captain of Fives B. J. Mallett. Captain of Gym Captains of the Houses :—• W. Davidson. School House R. W. Lambert. Castle House G. V. Marshall. The Hostel J. C. Turner. Chappel's House _B. Papps. Creighton's House School Monitors—G. V. Marshall, W. Davidson, M. S. Clarke, B. J. Mallett, R. W. Lambert, J. C. Turner, B. Papps,. H. N. Healey, P. R. Lucas, E. P. Dinsdale. Editors of The Vigorman—M. S. Clarke, M. J. Darlington, G, V. Marshall, B. J. Mallett. Librarians—G. V. Marshall, W. Davidson, B. J. Mallett, R. W. Lambert, J. C. Turner, B. Papps, M. J. Darlington, P. D. Clifton. SCHOOL NOTES. The Choir School no longer exists. In its place has risen a new institution : the Choir House, which consists of thirty-five boarders under the age of twelve, and some forty day-boys, who are mostly under the age of ten. The amalgamation with the King's School has been complete : a Choir House boy is just as much a King's School boy as those his senior by half a dozen years; he is subject to the same school rules, enjoys the same privileges and amenities. But traditions die hard and the Choir House tradition has treasured up so much that is dear not only to Old Boys and Old Choristers but to members of the King's School, past and present, that it will not lightly be allowed to die. Regret at the retirement of Mr. Davis after so many years of faithful service as Headmaster of the Choir School, is rightly shared by all, but he left behind him members of his staff who themselves have been absorbed into the King's School, and who bring with them the values that the Choir School stood for. The school thus takes the .opportunity of welcoming both them— Miss Forward, Miss N. Campbell, Mr. C. M. Thomas, and matron—and the eleven boarders and two day-boys who have joined the School from the Choir, as well as those day-boys who were members of the former school but do not sing. Of the rest, some are finding a new home within the old, namely those who have been transferred to Choir House from the older Houses of King's School, and many are altogether new. Of the latter, the School, and especially the Choir House, welcomes in particular Miss Falcy, whose patience in dealing with the manifold needs of the smallest boys is beyond compare. Miss Mingay by joining the Choir House resident staff strengthens the link which binds the Choir House to the parent school of which she was, of course, already a member. The thanks of the House and of the School are also due to those School Monitors, Marshall the Captain of the School and, in particular, Mallett—monitor deputed for Choir House affairs— who have contributed so much by their unfailing helpfulness to the happiness and efficiency of the Choir House. Last, but not least, the School adds its congratulations to the welcome which the Choir House extends to the first

December, 1943

Choir House Housemaster, Mr. Longland, and to Mrs. Longland, who have so large a share of the responsibility for the success of the transition from the old to the new. The fact that Mr. Longland spent nearly ten years of his youth as a member of the two schools is a guarantee that he will not be unmindful of the traditions which are common to both. The shade of his former self haunting the home to which he now returns should serve to remind him that not all the hours of his own youth were impeccable and should help him to cope with the harassing task of directing the untold accumulated energies of the seventy members of his House—the exciting new constellation in the firmament of the School. The hidden hand of Mrs. Longland is more than suspected in so much that affects more closely the comfort and happiness of the boys, and further rearrangements of rooms are understood to be in train for next term with a view to making the Choir House boarders' quarters more pleasant than they can be at present. In addition to those new members of the staff already mentioned in connection with the Choir House, we welcome Mr. N. E. Dilks, who teaches English and History, and is well known to the whole School for his chair-leg which he uses as a baton at the highly successful singing practices, newly instituted for the improvement of singing in the Cathedral. There are now seventeen on the staff—a number fully required now that we have reached the record total of three hundred and twenty-five. * • » No doubt we all wiH wish to join in congratulations to Mr. Ward on the birth of a son, Andrew, to Mrs. Ward. The Maths Sixth are said to wile away many an hour summing up the pros and cons of a baby three months old. In celebration a holiday was granted to the School on the Monday following half-term week-end, making a pleasant break of three days in the normal routine, when many boarders were able to go home. » « * Congratulations are due to Mr. Nicholls—known to many as the School Secretary, but to more just as ' Nick * — on becoming a grandfather. Rumour has it that the grandson has an even higher voice than ' Nick ' and will soon be usurping him in the Cathedral Choir ! Mr. Macdonald's book " Worcestershire in English History" which_ appeared in serial form in " Berrmo's Worcester Journal" last winter, is to be published shortly by Press Alliances Ltd. * * * The last of the excellent summer series of Subscription Concerts was given by the Jaques String Orchestra on September 25th. It was perhaps the most enjoyable of all, for the playing was very beautiful and the programme good. A Handel Suite, in particular, arranged by Mr. Jaques stands out in the memory. It was followed by Bach's Concerto for violin in A minor, in which Miss Ruth Pearl was the soloist. In the second half of the concert, Romance, by Sibelius, was outstanding for delicacy of treatment and beauty of tone. The first of two concerts arranged as a winter programme was held in College Hall on November 13th. It was a recital by Joan Davies (pianoforte) and Manucci

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THE VIGORNIAN.

("cello). The main items were Beethoven's Concerto in A major and Brahms' Sonata in E minor. In each Manucci's playing was disappointing and lacking in tone; he was apparently suffering from the ill-effects of a bad war-time journey. However, Miss Davies won the audience by the brilliance and extraordinary charm of her art. Bach's " Sheep may safely graze," already familiar to many in the Hall, was especially enchanting. Musical enthusiasts now look forward expectantly to the next concert on February 6th, when Mr. Arnold Foster, who has already made his name known in Worcester by his musical enterprise, will be introducing a new orchestra—The Worcestershire String Players. The death of Mr. Tom Bates came as a tragic shock to the School, and especially to those of us—and there are many—who knew his sick-room wit. As School doctor he served us faithfully through many generations; in his death we lose more than our doctor—we lose a great friend and one of our most ardent O.V.s. The staff and many boys attended the Memorial Service held in the Cathedral. An obituary notice has been written by Mr. Creighton, and is published elsewhere in The Vigomian. * * * OB Monday, October 25th, Irene Kohler gave a piano recital to the School in College Hall. She played magnificently a very popular programme consisting of a Beethoven Sonata (The Moonlight), three Scarlatti Sonatas, three Chopin Etudes, an intricate Study by Liszt, and four more modern pieces by French, Russian, and English composers. Possibly the Beethoven and the Chopin were the most enjoyable, although the whole concert was easy enough to listen to as the artist explained each work before playing it. We are sure that all members of the School—and particularly those who are at all 'music-minded '—will want to take this opportunity of thanking Irene Kohler for coming to play to us and Mrs. Kittermaster for arranging the concert. HOUSE NOTES. SCHOOL HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : W. Davidson, M. S. Clarke, B. J. Mallett, H. N. Healey, E. P. Dinsdale. We were sorry to lose Badham, Wells, Goss and Hewson last term and we wish them every success in the future. In their place we welcome seven new boys three of whom have come from the Choir School under the new amalgamation. Under the same scheme three 'of last term's members .of the House are now in Choir House. House rugger this term has been very successful as, •of the nine members of the House team, no less than eight are members of the 1st or 2nd XV.s. We have, so far, won all our matches, and are looking forward to the one against Creighton's House which should prove to be an exciting game. Congratulations to Clarke on being elected Secretary of Rugger, to Mallett on being made Captain of Gym, and to both on being re-awarded their 1st XV caps and colours; to Davidson, Mills, P. J. and Dinsdale on being awarded their 1st XV colours; to Mills, P. J., Cook, Prestage and Townsend on passing their Certificate

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" A" Examination, Part I., to Wells on passing his School Certificate; to Healey on passing his School Certificate, on becoming a School Monitor and on becoming Corporal-in-Charge of the School A.T.C. Flight, and to Dinsdale on becoming a School Monitor. The promotion of Healey and Dinsdale to School Monitors means that there are now five School Monitors in the House and no House Monitors, a situation which we know to be very unusual and believe to be unique. Very many thanks are due to Matron for her help and interest in the House. Like several other members of the House, she has ended the term by catching the ' flu, from which we wish her a speedy recovery in time for an enjoyable Christmas holiday. We must also thank Mrs. Kittermaster for her help in the absence of Matron and we wish her, and all those connected with the House, especially Mr. Wilson, our House-master, the compliments of the season. CASTLE HOUSE. HOXJSB MONITORS : R. W. Lambert, A. H. McKenzie, P. C. Smith, L. M. Graves. We were very sorry to lose Money, Cook and Harris at the end of last term, and we wish Money the best of luck at his University Course. The House now has a larger number of boys than it has ever had before. The newcomers, Wilding, Kicking, Griffin, .Cowper, Sharp, Lewis, Cloke, Bradley, Nash, Burgoyne and Peacock, make the total up to thirty-five. Lambert is to be congratulated on becoming Captain of Rugger and McKenzie and Wilding on getting their 1st XV Colours. We wish to congratulate Graves, Irving and Rankin on getting their School Certificates, also Smith, Parry and Irving on passing their Cert. " A " Part II, and. Rankin, Thomas and Davies on passing Cert. " A," Part I. Only two House matches have been played so far this term, and in the first which was against School House we were beaten 18—0. , We did better when we played against Chappel and beat them 31-—3. At the time c going to press there are still two more matches to t played and we wish the House team the best of luck. The House is acting " A King's Hard Bargain in the House Plays at the end of this term* and we at. hope that it will be a success. There have not been many illnesses this term and thanks to Matron, the House has been kept up to its usual high standard of health. We wish Mr. and Mrs. Bentley and Matron a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. THE HOSTEL. HOUSE MONITORS : G. V. Marshall, C. W. Williams, W; J. Martindale. We were sorry to lose J. M. Ansell D. S. Shovelton, R. E. Rowlands, C. M. G. Matheson, H. L. Guimbeau and E. E. Price at the end of last term, and we wish them every success in their future careers. Even, though we lost so many boys at the end of last term our numbers have been more than made up by an influx of eleven new boys. Among the new-boys was G. V. Marshall, until this term a day-boy, and he has filled the place of Ansell as Captain of the House and School. For the most/part our boys are fairly

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small, but we hope to do well in the House Rugger matches; so far only one round has been played, when we drew six all with Chappel's House. We congratulate Marshall on becoming Captain of the School, Under-Officer in the J.T.C. and on obtaining his Higher Certificate, and Williams, Rowlands, H. L. Guimbeau and Champion on obtaining their School Certificates. This term Williams has been re-awarded his 1st XV Colours, and Marshall, W. J. Martindale and Sellicks have found places in the 2nd XV. We congratulate Martindale on becoming a House Monitor, and a Lance-Corporal in the J.T.C. We would like to thank Mrs. Thomas and Miss Thomas for keeping the House in such good health this term, and we wish Mr. Thomas and his family, together with the rest of the House, a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous and; we hope, peaceful New Year. * # * CHAPPEL'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : J. C. Turner, A. E. Gwynn-Jones, P. D. Clifton, K. Evans. This term the advent of a large number of new boys makes us the second largest House in the School. We also have a new House Captain in Turner, whom we heartily congratulate. We send our good wishes to Pontecorvo, Moody and J. P. H. Lewis, who left us last term. Although we have two representatives in the 1st XV and five in the 2nd XV, we have drawn one, and lost four House matches, about which the less said the better. We congratulate K. Evans on becoming a House Monitor and on being awarded his 1st XV Colours, Medcalf on being awarded his 1st XV Colours, and A. E. Gwynn-Jones and Turner on becoming C.S.M. and Sergeant respectively in the Corps. We possess two successful candidates for Certificate " A," Part II, this term—J. E. Cocke and R. G. Gill. P. G. Gwynn-Jones passed his Certificate " A," Part I. House Savings are in the capable hands of Clifton, who can be seen on Saturday mornings way-laying members of the House for their savings; this term he has been very successful and has raised £20. Like other Houses we are striving to produce a House Play at the end of term, but sickness has held up rehearsals. It now only remains for us to wish all members of the House, past and present, a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. CREIGHTON'S HOUSE. HOUSE MONITORS : B. Papps, P. R. Lucas, M. J. Darlington, R. J. Little, G. C. Everton, E. H. Smith, J. B. Evans. When we returned to School this term we wondered how we should be able to accommodate the influx' of Day-Boys from the Choir School in the Changing Room. Everything has now settled down after the first few chaotic weeks and now all we monitors have to grumble about is the continual waylaying of games clothes. If only people would ask if they could borrow things and then put them back where they got them from when they had finished with them we should not worry. It is just because people are lazy and.slack that this happens, and the sooner it ceases the better it will be for everyone. We were very sorry to lose Ayrton and Anstey last

December, 1943

term, also Marshall who deserted us to become a boarder in Hostel. We congratulate Ayrton, Marshall and Darlington on gaining their Higher Certificates. Following up our success last term in the J.T.C. Section Competition, Anstey, E. H. Smith and Hawkins gained for us the Team Shooting Cup, and Hawkins won the Individual Shooting Cup. This term we have supplied the J.T.C. with two sergeants, one corporal, and three lance-corporals. We wish Mitchell and Hawkins luck with their Cert. ' A ' Pt. II. Darlington has taken command of the Junior RedCross Section and much to his disgust has to submit to being drilled by the J.T.C. once a week. At the moment we have only one member in the A.T.C., McGill. This term the task of collecting Savings has been in the hands of R. J. Little. Although his official collection time is on Saturday morning he can be seen on a Monday morning prowling round the Changing Room demanding money off forgetful members. This seems quite a profitable way of doing it as up to date nearly £15 has come in from 26 members. Five members of the House have played for the 1st XV this term, B. Papps, Darlington, Little, Everton and James, and three for the 2nd XV, McGill, C. D. C. Harris and Griffiths. We congratulate, G. C. Everton on getting his 1st XV Cap and Colours,.B. Papps on getting his Colours re-awarded, and Darlington -and Little on getting their 1st XV Colours. We are hoping to give a good account of ourselves in the House Matches. We have won our 1st round versus Hostel. We are rehearsing " The Man in the Bowler Hat" by A. A. Milne, for our House Play at the end of term. Before we close we would like to congratulate Mr. Ward on the birth of his first-born, a son, and we wish him and the rest of the House a Happy Xmas and a prosperous though not too strenuous New Year.

FOURTH CENTENARY FUND. Report of Executive Committee. The Executive Committee of the Fourth Centenary Appeal General Committee (Mr. J. E. B. Littlebury, the Headmaster, Mr. Tom Bates, Mr. J. B. Cavenagh, Mr. A. Macdonald and Mr. S. D. Strong, Hon. Treasurer and Secretary) has held several meetings, and there has been one meeting of the General Committee. The Executive Committee has co-opted Mr. R. J. Castley to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Mr. Tom Bates, the loss of whose counsel it so deeply regrets. The Committee reports that £1,333 has already been subscribed by some 120 O.V.s and Friends of the School in sums ranging from £250 to 10/-. Every effort is being made to extend the range of the appeal and to achieve the " target " of £4,000 in order that the objects of the fund may be attained as soon as possible after the war is over. The Committee realises that some potential subscribers may feel that this is not the time to appeal for money, when every effort is being directed to the immediate purpose of winning the war. But, apart from the fact that all the money subscribed is being invested in War Bonds, they feel that it is important to be in a position to celebrate the Fourth Centenary of the School by enabling it to take its part worthily in the new world that will emerge when victory has been achieved.

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The most urgent needs of the rapidly growing School Angwin, J. B. P. (School House, 1915-18), M.B.E., Lt.-Col., R.E. are the provision and equipping of a Biology Laboratory, and of increased amenities in the accommodation of the Arbuckle, A. D. (Day-Boy, 1918-27), P/O, R.A.F. Day-Boys. The first of these scarcely requires much Averill, T. E. (Hostel, 1927-34), Capt., R.A. explanation or defence. The present Chemistry and Physics Laboratory was adequate to the needs of the Bagenal, J. S. (School House, 1924), 2nd-Lt., West few boys who studied science in a school that was mainly Surreys. classical. To-day the great majority of boys, and their Bagnall, R. P. C. (Day-Boy, 1922-28), Lt. Col. R.E.M.C. parents, demand science, and the demand deserves to Bailey, L. M. (Hostel, 1927-33), Lt., Worcs. Regt. be met. It is quite impossible to meet it properly under Bain, D. W. (School House, 1927-31), Capt. R.A. (Anti-Tank). existing circumstances and if the School is to compete successfully with the requirements of coming generations Baker, G. A. (Day-Boy, 1930-33), Lt., R.A. it must be able to offer facilities for adequate scientific Barker, R. B. (Day-Boy, 1927-33), Sgt.-Major, R.E.M.E. •Baxter, J. N. teaching. There are now 140 Day-Boys in the Senior School, Baxter, J. N. T. (Hostel, 1932-35), Lt., Indian Army, divided into two Houses. Their present accommodation Beauchamp, H. K. P. (Hostel, 1930-33), D.S.O., D.F.C. Wing-Commander, R.A.F. was designed for a much smaller number. The provision of a second changing-room, and of adequate common- Blaicklock. W/ (1930-31), Lt., R.A. Prisoner of War. rooms and studies for Day-Boys, would not only facilitate Blanchard, H. H. (Day-Boy, 1919-20), Lt.-Col., O.B.E., B.N.A.F. the running of the Houses, but would help to foster that sense of corporate unity which the boarding houses Brooks, R. I. G. (Castle House, 1932-36), Capt., R.A. Field. naturally enjoy and which is one of the most valuable Brown, C. H. (Day-Boy, 1915-24), M.B.E., Major, features of Public School life. R.A.S.C. The Executive Committee confidently appeals to all O.V.S, Parents and Friends of the King's School not to wait for personal appeals, which Caldicott, P. D. (Day-Boy, 1936-39), Lieut., R.A. involve much labour and expenditure of paper, Cavenagh, T. F. (Day-Boy, 1904-09), M.C., StaffColonel, R.A. (Served 1914-18). but to respond generously to this general appeal to attain these objects, the realisation of which Clarke, G. P. (School House, 1912-18), Colonel, General Staff. will be of incalculable and permanent benefit to Cleverley, E. (Day-Boy, 1926-33), Lt., Worcs. Regt. the School. (France). Prisoner of War. It is realised that some subscribers may prefer to give a number of small sums spread over a period of years, Cook, S. C. (1909-12), Major, R.E. Indian Army. Cornforth, E. M. (Castle House), Major, R.A. while others may prefer to make one final donation. You mav feel assured that any money so given now Croft, J. L. R. (School House, 1920-24), T/Capt., The Black Watch. Prisoner of War. will be invested in War Bonds, and will so be helping to win the war and be increasing in value until the time •Davies, H. M. comes when it can be released and applied. Subscriptions should be sent to the Hon. Treasurer, •Davies, C. R. •Denton, H. S. S. D. Strong, O.V., at the King's School. •Dickins, N. M. As we go to press, we have received a letter from Dixon, J. H. F. (School House, 1927-31), Major, E. Yorks. Regt. an O.V., whose name we have had no authority to publish but who makes a suggestion which we should like to Donald, C. R. (1918-32), Capt., Indian Army. pass on in case it may appeal to the imagination of others. It is that O.V.s might subscribe in terms of fixed sums Embling, J. R. A. (Hostel, 1926-31), D.S.O., WingCommander, R.A.F. multiplied by Four Hundred. Thus : •Edwards, J. R. £1x400 = £400 IS/- „ = £300 Fairgrieve, A. (School House, 1934-38), Capt., Gurkha S/- „ = £100 Rifles. 2/6 „ = £50 •Ferguson, N. M. 6d. „ = £10 Acting on his own suggestion, he has said that he Flay, A. L. (Day-Boy, 1922-30), Major, R.E. means to subscribe by instalments in terms of pounds, Flay, J. C. (Day-Boy, 1919-24), Major, R.A. (France). Wounded. arid in the meantime has sent a cheque in terms of 5/-. We feel that this generous and imaginative example Garrett, R. A. (Castle House, 1932-33), 2nd-Lt., Dragoons. might be widely followed. •Gettings, G. Gettings, H. C. (Day-Boy, 1920-26), R.E. Gibbs, G. K. (Day-Boy, 1926-30), S.Q.M.S., R.A.O.C. O.V.'s SERVING IN H.M. FORCES. Gilson, E. R. L. (Castle House, 1929-34), Lt., Worcs. CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS TO THE LIST Regt. Glew, G. W. L. (School House, 1933-35), Lt., E. Yorks PUBLISHED IN LAST TERM'S VIGORNIAN. Adams, A. H. (School House, 1917-20) Major comdg. Goddard, F. M. (School House, 1916-23), Lt., R.A. •Goer, R. A. 68th Coy. Pioneer Corps., C.M.F. Green, E. W. (Castle House, 1912-15), Capt., R.A. Andrews, W. T. (Chappel's House, 1941-43), R.A.F Served 1914-18. (Japanese Course).

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•Gregory, E. C. Greenfield, G. B. (1920-26), Sgt., R.A.F. Harris, D. J. R. (Day-Boy, 1933-36), Castle House, 1939-40, Day-Boy, 1940-41), Lt., R.A. Harris, D. P. C. (Castle House, 1927-30), Lt., C.M. Police. Harrison, L. A. (Day-Boy, 1911-19), Lt.-Col., Indian Army. Hartwright, C. G. (Day-Boy, 1931-35), Lt., R.A.S.C. Hedderwick, I. H. (Hostel, 1931-34), Major, Gurkha Rifles. Higginson, T. F. (School House, 1926-33), Capt., K.A.R. Hodgson, C. V. (School House, 1925-28), Capt., General Army Staff. Howells, Rev. V. P. (School House, 1913-17), R.A.F. Chaplain. Howells, B. St. J. (School House, 1917-20), Major, King's Regt. Hulme, P. E. (School House, 1937-41), 2nd-Lt., R.A. Essex Yeomanry. Inight, K. F. (Day-Boy, 1932-37), R.A. Surrey Regt., B.N.A.F. Jeff, W. J. F. (Day-Boy, 1924-31), Capt., R.A., Royal Warwicks. Kendall, J. R. F. (Day-Boy, 1934-38), Officer-Cadet, Infantry. •Kewan, J. B. Key, W. H. B. (Day-Boy, 1937-39), Lt., R.A. Lane, C. M. (Hostel, 1914-18), M.C., Major, Indian Army. Prisoner of War. Lawrey, F. W. (Hostel, 1933-35), Sub-Lieut., R.N. Leeke, F. W., Lt., Pioneer Corps. *Le Huray, M. Lock, H. T. R. (Day-Boy, 1926-32), Lieut., R.A.S.C. Lock, S. O. A. M. (Hostel, 1935-38), Pte., N.C.C., R.E. Lodge, R. L. (Castle House, 1932-38), 2nd-Lt., R.A. Matthews, A. K. (School House, 1910-15), Lt.-Col., R.A. Served 1915-18. * McKenzie, B. C. (School House, 1917), Lieut. McKenzie, S. N. (1909), Major, Australian Force. McKerrow, J. C. (School House, 1936-40), L/Cpl., B.N.A.F. Wounded. •Meers, R. G. •Monahan, P. C. W. Morris, J. G. (Castle House, —42), Lt., R.A.C. Newcomb, E. R. (Hostel, 1912-15), M.C., Major, Worcs. Regt. Served 1915-18. Nicholls, J. A. (Castle House, 1938-40), Territorial Commission, Army Cadet Force. Porter, C. E. (Hostel), M.N. Reported Missing. Parry, D. F. (1929-33), Capt., R.E.M.E. Payne, J. L. (Day-Boy, 1925-31), Lt., Bedford and Herts Regt. On sick leave. Porter, J. L. (Hostel, 1915-19), 2nd-Officer, M.N. Prisoner of War. Poths, H. D. (Hostel, 1934-37), 2nd-Lt., R.A. Powell, A. H. S. (School House, 1921-29), Indian Army. Powell, J. D. F. (School House, 1918-23), Lt., R.A. Price, E. W. T. (Day-Boy, 1932-39), D.R., R.A.S.C. Quin, S. E. V. (Castle House, 1907-14), Capt., K.R.R.C. India. Served 1914-18. Ravenhill, P. (Castle House, 1932-35), Major, R.A. Reynolds, J. " (School House), Capt., Commandos. B.NA.F.

December, 1946

Rice-Jones, H. N. (Castle House, 1933-35), Sgt., Intelligence Corps. Prisoner of War. Royle, D. C. (Castle House, 1924-32), Lt., Wilts. Regt. Royle, R. P. (Castle House, 1924-33), Capt., Wilts. Regt. Sampson, C. R. (School House, 1937-42), A.C.2., R.A.F. Shovelton, P. L. (Hostel, 1935-39), R.E.M.E. •Simpson, S. (Day-Boy, 1892--99). Smith, G. (Day-Boy, 1932-38), R.A.F. In India. Smith, Rev. G. (Day-Boy, 1926-30), Chaplain, Forces. Smith, R. (Day-Boy, 1929-33), A.C.I., R.A.F. Stanley, V. E. M. C. (School House). Prisoner of War. Steward, D. B. (School House, 1932-38), Lt., Worcs. Regt. Summers, R. E. (Day-Boy, 1927-34), Lt., Gloucester Regt. Taylor, W. C. (School House), 2nd-Lt., South Staffs Regt. •Thompson, C. G. L. Walker, F. H. (School House, 1933-36), Lt., Leic. Yeomanry Field Regt. Warren, J. L. (Day-Boy, 1928-35), Warrant-Officer, Indian Army. Waterhouse, J. E. J. A. (Day-Boy, 1934-38), Pilot-Officer^ D.F.M. Watkins, B. S. (School House, 1910-17), Lt.-Col., Royal Signals. Watson, P. H. C. (School House, 1938-41), Sgt.-AirGunner, R.A.F. Webb, D. (1920-23), Major, R.E. Wedgewood, K. (School House, 1935-39), Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry. Discharged on Medical Grounds. White, P. N. (School House, 1917-19), Lt.-Col., Sherwood Foresters. We are deeply indebted to Captain Holland for his great help in the revision of the last term's list. • Capt. Holland claims that these are nowhere to be found in the Army list. Additions and corrections to the above List will be welcomed and should be sent to Mr. H. E. Nicholls, King's School. ROLL OF HONOUR. Their Name Liveih for Evermore. ALLEN, R. W. M. (Castle House,. 1932-35), Lt., R.A. BALDRY, A. E. (Day Boy, 1933-38), Sgt.-Pilot, R.A.F. BALLET, F. E. G. (Day Boy, 1922-29), Sgt., R.A.F. BEARCROFT, E. M. F. (Castle House, 1930-37), Flt.-Sgt., Pilot, R.A.F. BETHUNE-WILLIAMS, D. E. (Castle House, 1923-26), Lt., R.N.V.R. CLARKE, D. S. (School House, 1931-34), Sub-Lt., Fleet Air Arm. CLARKE, E. H. P. (Day Boy, 1922), Wing-Commdr., R.A.F., A.F.C. DREW, D. W. (Day Boy, 1925-30),- Sgt., R.A.F. GOOD, M. H. (Castle House, 1936-40), Flying-Officer, R.A.F. GRAY, T. N. (School House, 1929- ), Lt., R.A. HALL, D. A. (School House, 1930-38), Capt., Hants Regt. HALTON, E. C. (School House, 1924-28), Major, R.A. HARGRAVES, H. L. (Day Boy, 1919-27), Trooper, R.T.R. MORRIS, J. R. (Day Boy, 1931-37), Sgt.-Pilot, R.A.F. PORTER, C. E-XHostel, 1919-27), Assistant Purser, R.N. REYNOLDS, J. (Day Boy, 1927-34), Pilot Officer. STEWARD, E. J. (School House, 1927-33), Gunner, R.H.A.

December, 1943

THE VIGORNIAN.

TAAFFB, J. J. (Day Boy, 1932-39. Hostel, 1940), Sgt.Pilot, R.A.F.V.R. TAYLOR, A. L. (Day Boy, 1931-33), D.F.C. and 2 Bars, Sqdr.-Leader, R.A.F. Ment. in Desp. WHITEHEAD, C. D. A. (School House, 1931-36), Flt.-Sgt., R.A.F. * * * We deeply regret to have to add the following names to the Roll:— BAGENAL, P. (School House, 1934-38), Acting-PlatponSgt., Australian Army. Killed in New Guinea, Jan., 1943, while leading his platoon into action near Sanander. KITSON, G. C. (Day Boy, 1927-33), P/O., R.A.F. Killed while piloting a Lancaster Bomber in the raid over Krefeld, 21st June, 1943. MERVYN, J. C. S. (School House, 1919-27), mentioned in despatches, Wing-Commdr., R.A.F., Coastal Command. Missing, believed killed, from a transatlantic flight in a bomber. TOWNSEND, R. R. (Day Boy, 1928-34), Flt.-Sgt., Navigator, R.A.F. Killed on active service in England, Sept., 1943. O.V. NEWS. Rev. L. S."K. Ford (School House, 1922-25), recently repatriated from China, is Senior Assistant Chaplain at Felsted School. * * * A. H. S. Powell (School House, 1921-29) has been invalided out of the Army in India, having contracted smallpox; he is still in hospital suffering from his eyes, but is improving. « * * J. A. Nicholls (Castle House, 1938-40), prevented by ill-health from joining the Army, has obtained a Territorial commission and is serving with the Army Cadet Force. * * . * A. Richards (School House, 1929-34) has been missing in Borneo since January, 1942. Capt. J. H. Waylen (Castle House, 1925-27) has been admitted a Member of the Institute of Bankers. Major G. H. Wilford, M.C. (Castle House, 1914-20) has sent us an interesting account of his experiences as an Infantry Company Commander during the Tunisian campaign, which is published in the Journal of the H.A.C. and which we have not space to reprint. He was awarded the M.C. in this campaign for leading, under heavy fire, an attack " carried out in a text-book manner . . . his conduct throughout the campaign has been an example of coolness and steadiness." * * * M. J. Wells (School House, 1938-43) is working as an Engineer with the B.B.C. *. * * Lieut.-Col. H. H. Blanchard (Day Boy, 1919-20) has been awarded the O.B.E. for distinguished services in N. Africa and Sicily.

316

F. H. Yarnold (Day Boy, 1931-33) has been awarded the M.B.E. for his services as Deputy-Secretary to the Government of Burma Defence Department, in the evacuating 6f the population over the mountains to Simla last year. * * * Through the kindness of his mother, we have been allowed to see several letters from B. A. Sewell ( ) who is a Flt.-Lt., R.A.F., in the Middle East. He writes of hitch-hike trips in his off-hours, during one of which he visited the Cedars of Lebanon, and another time found his way to Jerusalem, covering part of Palestine by air. " It was a lovely sight flying over the coast. The terraced hills with irregular-shaped fields follow the contours and make a delightful pattern, rather as if outlined with charcoal and filled in with pale washes of yellow and green." He laments the absence of price control in the towns, where butter is 7s. 6d. a pound, the local beer 2s. 3d. a bottle, a cup and saucer costs 9s. and a motor tyre £250 to £300. ENGAGEMENT. Richard Waldron Stevens (Day Boy, 1935-38) second son of Mr. and Mrs. S. Stevens, The Shrubbery, Battenhall, Worcester, to Audrey Vivienne Hill, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred. Hill, Harborough House, St. John's, Worcester. MARRIAGE. On 13th November, 1943, at Worcester, the Rev. Gilbert Smith, C.F. (Day Boy, 1926-30) to Muriel M. Reynolds. * * * BIRTHS. BAIN—On 1st March, 1943, to Sheila, wife of Capt. D. W. Bain, R.A., 8th Army (School House, 1927-3 )— a daughter. CROWLEY—On 20th October, 1943, at Worcester, to Joy, wife of P/O Timothy Crowley and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Nicholls—a daughter, Deidre Barbara. WAGSTAFF—On 31st October, 1943, at Ontario, Canada, to Babs, wife of F/O. Jack Wagstaff—a son, Elmer John. DEATHS. Mrs. R. C. PEDDER. We learn with the greatest regret that Mrs. Pedder died very suddenly on November 20th. Members of the Hostel just before the war, and. all those who were under her care at Criccieth,' especially, have the happiest memory of her unfailing goodness and resource in difficulties, and the whole School will wish to express the deepest sympathy with Lieut.-Commander Pedder and his little son. * * * TOM BATES. b. 12 Oct. 1878. d. 21 Nov. 1943. (O.V. 1889-1897). Tom Bates was born in Worcester in 1878, the elder of the two sons of Mr. Tom Bates, honorary surgeon at the Worcester Royal Infirmary from 1879 to 1909, and consulting surgeon until 1916, when he died after coming out of retirement to carry on the work of his

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two sons who were serving in, the R.A.M.C. After leaving the King's School, where he was a noted athlete, he entered " Bart's," obtaining the M.R.C.S. and L.R.C.P. in 1904 and the F.R.C.S. Eng. in 1905. In 1907 he obtained the M.B., B.S. Lond., and two years later joined his father in practice at 44 Foregate Street, where he died on November 21st, after a very short illness. Of his devoted service in private practice and at the Infirmary, as President of the Worcestershire and Herefordshire Branch of the B.M.A., or as Chairman of the Area- British Hospitals' Association, this is not the place to write. Here we think of him primarily as an Old Vigornian and as our School Doctor, and we are glad to be able to print the following tribute to him in those capacities by one who is the best qualified to appraise them : TOM BATES An Appreciation. By the death of Tom Bates the School has lost not only its Medical Officer but also one of its most loyal and devoted Old Boys. Few O.V. can have been so widely known to his schoolfellows as he was through his close connection with the School ever since he left it, and none has shown a more constant interest in its welfare or a greater readiness to put his services at its disposal in any way he could. On coming to Worcester I quickly learned to appreciate his value as our School Doctor. His methods were unconventional, and may at times to some have appeared even casual. He would stroll around among his patients cracking jokes and telling stories, and apparently perhaps paying little attention to their ailments or their symptoms; but all the time his quick eye and observant faculties were at work, and very little escaped him. He was the reverse of a faddist or alarmist, and was ready to admit that in most cases the vis mediatrix naturae (he enjoyed airing his Latin tags) was the doctor's best ally; but when things were more serious he would spare himself no pains, and I always felt complete confidence that nothing would be left undone that could be of any help. His judgment was sound, he never got rattled; in any crisis or emergency I was thankful to have him to turn to for consultation and advice, and I am glad to have the opportunity of acknowledging the debt that I myself personally, and the School as well, owe to him in this way. He showed his interest in the School and in all its activities in many other ways. He understood and sympathised with boys because he never lost his own youthfulness, and he enjoyed being present at school functions and especially at O.V. gatherings. He was one of the mainstays of the OiV. Club, and during his long membership of the Committee he rendered most valuable service and kept a jealous eye on its finances. He was a " character " whom no one who knew him will readily forget, and he will be sadly missed by his many friends. C.C. * * * GEORGE WILLIAM SELWYN DRIVER (King's School, 1891-1897). The passing early this year of an O.V. whose entertainment was a most popular feature at many a School Concert in days gone by, should have been recorded in last term's Vigornian.

December, 194^

Selwyn Driver was born in 1879, and was the son of a former Vicar of St. Mary's, Worcester. After leaving school he started as an electrical engineer, but a natural gift for mimicry and light music led him to the concert platform where he enjoyed a long and successful career in England and in the Colonies. His public performances were billed as " Driver at the Piano," but in College Hall, where he was a generous giver of his time and talent, the programme would merely remark : " Selwyn Driver, O.V., will entertain'"—and entertain he did. A breezy prelude at the piano, and he would swing round and fire off highly improbable stories, sing comic songs, interspersed with patter and accompanying himself with untiring vivacity. The " superior " might sniff, but there was no doubt of his popularity with the School, who would cheer and roar for more, till Canon Chappel would be obliged to rise and restore order so that the concert might proceed. His last appearance in Worcester was at an O.V. Dinner a year or two before the war, but he was still performing until shortly before his death, the news of which saddened many besides his numerous personal friends. * * * HAROLD COURTENAY ARMSTRONG (School House, 1900-1909). Capt. H. C. Armstrong, O.B.E., died oi> August 25th last at Brighton. On leaving school he went up to Keble College, Oxford, later entering the Indian Army. He served in Mesopotamia and was taken prisoner at Kut-el-Amarah. After the war he was on the staff of the G.O.C., Allied Forces of Occupation in Turkey. He was the author of a number of biographies, Including " Grey Wolf" (Mustafa-Kemal), " Lord of Arabia " (King Ibn Saud) and " Grey Steel" (General Smuts). BERTIE GROSVENOR STEVENS (1899-1904). " Bob " Stevens, who died last March, is remembered by his contemporaries at School as an outstanding athlete who created many records in the sports and played cricket for the county while still at school. He emigrated to Canada, but shortly returned to Dudley and joined a firm of woollen merchants. He served in Gallipoli, Egypt and Palestine with the Worcestershire Yeomanry. As a cricketer, he is remembered for many notable innings, and as wicket-keeper, for Worcestershire, Dudley C.C. and the " Wayfarers." ARTHUR ERNEST MAUND (1907-1914). We regret that the news has only just reached us of the death in Oxford, as the result of an accident, of the Rev. A. E. Maund, in May of last year. He had held curacies in Lincoln, Birmingham and Oxford, before being presented, in 1935, to the vicarage of St. Paul, Oxford. « * * WILLIAM HENRY COUNSELL (King's School, 1883-1888). W. H. Counsell, who died oh 1st October last, was the eldest of the three brothers who were prominent in the School during Mr. Bolland's headmastership. After graduating at Cambridge, he owned a preparatory school at Sevenoaks, and was later an assistant master

December, 1943

THE VIGORNIAN.

as Sedbergh. From 1919 to 1930 he was the first headmaster of Morecambe Grammar School. While there he took Holy Orders and on his retirement was presented to the Vicarage of Ivegill, Cumberland. In 1933 he published " My Notebook of St. John" and at the time of his death was engaged on a study of Ibsen. CHARLES HINDLE CECIL FARAM (1883-1889). C. H. C. Faram died on 27th June last. ' For some thirty years he had been head of one of the oldest firms of hop merchants in Worcester and was Chairman of the Allied Brewers' Traders Association. He was keenly interested in the Operatic Society and the Rowing Club and in the County Cricket Club. CHARLES EDMUND ABEL.L An early experimenter in wireless, C. E. Abell, who died on 24th February, had successfully transmitted from his home at Ronkswood to a neighbouring house before the publication of Marconi's discovery. In 1909 he set up one of the first electrical shops in Worcester, which, after the last war (when he served on the H.Q. staff, specialising in searchlights) developed into the well-known firm of Abell and Smiths' Electrical Company Limited. * » *

318

Army Home, Camberwell. He was ill, and removed to Francis Hospital, East Dulwich, London, on January 24th this year. He died on Thursday, February 4th, and the funeral took place in London. " Kick-Pudding," whose name was Harry Andrews, was born about 83 years ago at the George Inn, Wyre, where his father, Edmund Andrews, was licensee and also carried on business as a baker and confectioner. While comparatively young he won a King's Scholarship, and at school in Worcester soon distinguished himself, especially at languages. When his father died he assisted his mother in the bakery business she began in Port Street, Evesham, and when she died 25 years ago he took it over, but soon moved to 76 Port Street—next door to the Talbot Hotel—where he set up as a fruiterer and greengrocer, and remained there until 1940. He was well-known in most of the outlying village districts, for during the last twenty-five years he often pushed his barrow load of wares eighteen miles a day all round the Vale of Evesham, regardless of the weather. He was never married. Two of his brothers are basket makers at Owletts-end, Evesham, and others live in Worcester and Gloucester. Bengeworth has certainly lost a character."

JUNIOR TRAINING CORPS. The contingent this term numbered far more than usual, and though some of the recruits have had only one term's service, they are shaping well, and show HENRY SEPTIMUS ANDREWS promise of becoming efficient cadets in the future. (King's School, 1873-1875). Shooting this term has not been very extensive, but The reprinting of the following article in the Evesham under the excellent instruction of Sergeant-Major Journal of 13th February last will cause many to regret Cooper the Corps boasts many first-class shots, and that their only acquaintance with so interesting and some half dozen Empire Marksmen. original a character should be made when it is too late : Field Day this term was held on Mr. Hodgett's land " Before the outbreak of war everybody in Bengeworth at Pirton. It was an exceedingly pleasant place, and knew a tall, erect, white-haired old man, who pushed a afforded ample opportunities for use of ground and dilapidated wicker barrow from door to door, selling all us« of cover. The Platoon Sergeants marched their kinds of fruit and vegetables, but especially oranges and Platoons to the appointed rendezvous with only a map bananas. He always wore a brown buttoned smock to guide them, and as the country was unknown to and a black bowler hat on the back of his head, and at them they did their job very well. In the morning the houses where he called with his dignified " Any instruction was carried on by Platoons, and in the Bananas to-day ? " he was affectionately referred to as afternoon a small scheme was carried out. Platoons " Kick-Pudding." 2 and 4 attacked a ridge, and they showed intelligence Often he was to be seen, one arm on his barrow, the and initiative. The scheme was by no means free from other holding his clay pipe in the side of his mouth, his faults, but it showed promise, and the attackers and steel pince-nez spectacles clipped on the end of his nose, defenders appeared to enjoy themselves. trying to persuade some busy housewife that she needed Many of our N.C.O.s and senior cadets attended some of his oranges : " At least half a dozen—they're training camps and instruction courses during the the best on the market, ma'am," he would say. Summer Holidays. The P.T. camps appear to have It was obvious to everybody that " Kick-Pudding " been very popular, and those who went in the summer really delighted in conversation. And how he could are going again after Christmas. talk ! It is doubtful if more than two or three out of Sergeants from Norton Barracks have been taking those hundreds of people who knew him had the slightest the Certificate ' A ' Platoons on Saturday mornings. idea that he was the master of at least seven modern They provide the latest and most up-to-date instruction, languages. Sometimes his -conversation seemed rather and are conversant with the army methods of teaching. strange, perhaps philosophic, vaguely prophetic. There Feeling in some quarters of the J.T.C. does not like are those who will always remember his warning when the presence of these aliens, and it means that the the stories of German atrocities in Poland were published Certificate ' A ' Platoon N.C.O.s stand about with in the winter of 1939—" Lord help us when the Japs nothing to do, while the sergeants drill or instruct the start," he used to repeat. ' potential examination candidates. Three years ago "Kick-Pudding's" fruit and vegetable In order to make up for a parade that we missed business ceased to exist; there was nothing for him to there was a two-hour Parade on Saturday, November 13th. sell; ships could not bring him the bananas and oranges It was very useful, but was spoiled by incessant rain. of whose freshness he had always been so proud. In The Certificate ' A ' Examination took place on the spring of 1941 he went to the Eventide Salvation Monday, December 7th.

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The following passed Certificate ' A ' Part II :— Cadets—Parry, Cocke, Crennell, Smith, P. C., Mitchell, Hawkins, Gill, R. G., Irving. The following passed Certificate ' A ' Part I :— Cadets—Champion, Fisher, Cook, D. J., Rankin, Brenner, Little, Davies, C. L., Colegate, Harris, G. D. C., Townsend, Gwynn-Jones II., Prestage I., Mills I., Thomas, P. G. W., Williams, H. L., Tansell, Hughes. Promotions this term :— C.S.M. Marshall to be Under-Officer. Sgt. Gwynn-Jones to be C.S.M. Cpls. to be Sgts.: Papps, Mallett, Turner. Cadets to be L/Cpls.: G. C. Everton, Martindale I, Feuer, E. H. Smith. G.V.M. A.T.C. NOTES. This term our numbers were greater than had been expected. There are now nine cadets in the flight amongst whom we welcome Williams, Wilding, Evans, McGill and Rowson as new comers. We were sorry to lose cadets Anstey, Moody and Saunders, who left the School at the end of last term, and also Cpl. Money, whose stripes have been handed on to Healey. We also welcome Mr. Burnell who has been taking Calculations and Navigation classes both at School and at the Institute. He is hoping to become an officer in the squadron and we hope that the commission will be soon forthcoming. On Field-Day the flight visited a local aerodrome where an enjoyable day was spent. Most of the time was occupied in the hangers where one squad helped to dismantle an aircraft fuselage while another removed a motor from its mountings and prepared it for transit. Visibility was bad throughout the morning so that it was not until late in the afternoon that five of us went up for short flights of about ten minutes duration. Two of us were lucky enough to take over the controls. Many thanks are due to Flight-Lieut. Bond our C.O. for arranging the trip. Several cadets are hoping to get their proficiency badges this term, and we wish them every success in their examination. We must also say goodbye to cadets Clarke and Davidson. The former is hoping to join the 'Fleet Air Arm, while the latter is waiting to take a Short Course into the R.A.F. in which service he hopes to become a pilot, a job which he wants to make his career. We wish them both luck and success in the future. H.N.H. RED CROSS. The beginning of the term saw the number of our older members sorely decreased. Two have joined the A.T.C., whilst three have left the School. • A number of other boys have decided to join the J.T.C. There have been a number of recruits however, who although young are very enthusiastic, making a total of twenty-six boys, who are divided into two sections under Section-Leaders Medcalf and Darlington with Hammond and Harris Lance Section-Leaders. Lectures have been regularly given again this term each Saturday for our next certificate by Sgt. Cook and -Mr. Smithson. We should like to thank them both for their help to us this term.

December, 1943

Since the beginning of the term the Red Cross have been drilling with the J.T.C. and an N.C.O. from the J.T.C. has taken them. At first they were slow to learn, but they have developed now quite a high standard of efficiency. Lastly our forage caps have been distributed amongst us and we have been measured for the rest of pur uniform, which, we hope, will not be too long in coming. M.J.D., S.W.M. POEMS. " WHY ? " When every sun-drenched morning In one great shimmering ray Breaks with a splendid radiance Upon some perfect Day; When all the heroes' voices In a magic chord ring out From the mountains and the valleys With a triumphant shout: When the dew from Heaven falling Washes men's cobwebbed eyes, And he sees, as in lightning flashes, The blackness of his lies : When the robber shrinks from plunder And the murderer stays his hand, And a Voice enrapt in thunder Is heard in every land : When children cease to suffer, And women cease to weep, And men awaken, wondering, From a nightmare-ridden sleep; When all the blood-red sunsets Are gathered into one Transcendent flaming glory, Around a mighty sun; And the perfect day is setting, And that last great sun sinks low, We shall need no more,to question "Why" For then—then we shall know. MERVYN STANLEY, O.V. (Published in a Toronto newspaper in 1942). " PILOT." (For M.J.C.S., Missing, May, 1942). No, not for you the darkness of a grave, You are not dead, you live in everything, The dawn's pale fire, the shining seabird's wing, Spray blowing from the curled crest of a wave, The heart-lift of an eager swinging stave That leads my feet to dance, my soul to sing; Always for you a memory rich and brave, A star night-marching through high heaven's nave, Of earth a knight but of the skies a king; In all things young and valiant you fly, Still gay and splendid, riding through the sky. J.S.N.S.—June, 1942. POSTER CLUB. This term after a relapse of two terms we have continued our work for the war effort by helpingtheW.V.S. in providing them with any posters they require, since they find it very hard to obtain printed posters. So far this term we have made some posters advertising a show at the Theatre Royal in aid of the Royal Infirmary, drawn some small sketches for the W.V.S. " Make Do

December, 1943

THE VIGORNIAN.

and Mend " exhibition, which was held in the beginning of December, painted some pictures to ' brighten • the W.V.S. Wartime Day. Nurseries, and lastly coloured two maps for the Worcester Training Officer. Later on in the year we hope to visit some art schools and to have some lectures on poster work. W.J.M., A.C.B. SCOUTS. The Scouts have been re-organised this term : boys over 14 years have passed on and have joined either the J.T.C. or the Red Cross. There has been a large number of recruits, mostly boys under 12 years. As a consequence of this, the number of Scouts has increased very greatly and we have 74 boys who are already Tenderfeet or who soon will be. This has necessitated dividing the Scouts into three Troops which meet on Monday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Whenever possible patrol leaders have met on Tuesday afternoons to continue with their 2nd-class work and some are well on the way to gaining this badge. Some have, been prevented from coming to these meetings owing to " detentions." One or two of the 14-year-olds have kindly assisted in this work. Throughout the term we have had regular assistance from Miss Forward and Miss Mingay on Saturdays and Mondays and in addition Miss Campbell has helped on most Mondays. Field-day was spent this term in Nunnery Wood and, apart from some slight interference from members of the Stanley Road School who were supposed to be potate picking, we had an enjoyable day. Any boys who reach the age of 11 years during the holidays, and who wish to join the Scouts should give in their names as early as possible next term. H.L.W. SOCCER. Boys under 12 years 6 months at the beginning of term have played Soccer this term instead of Rugger. Owing to the large numbers wishing to play and to the lack of ground accommodation, it has been impossible to arrange for more than one game per week per boy, and not always that. The members of the Illrd forms downwards have played on whole-school-days. Members of the IVth forms and upwards have played on Saturdays, the ground being used on Wednesdays for Rugger. Four matches have been played, but only one was won. This lack of success has been largely due to want of practice. The XJ has never been able to practice together with the result that it has never played as a team, but rather as a collection of individuals, some of whom were much better than others. I hope that next year it will be possible to arrange for a certain amount of practice after school on whole-school-days. We may in this way be able to learn a little of how the game should be played, a thing about which, at the moment, we know absolutely nothing. H.L.W. RUGGER NOTES. The team at the beginning of this term showed more promise than had the teams of the past few seasons. The forwards were extremely successful, in view of

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the fact that they acquired both determination and speed with ability to turn defence into attack. With the exception of a much heavier R.A.F. XV, and the Dean Close School match, where they played as individuals, the forwards always held, and frequently overcame, their opponents. The backs this season werte comparatively slow, and therefore weak in attack, but their defensive work was quite good. As the season continued, the backs were re-arranged, and the new formation proved much better than the original. The outstanding achievement of the season was the match against Felsted School, this being .one of the best games of rugger seen on our ground for a long time. We wish to convey our thanks to Mr. Kittermaster, who has been of great assistance as a coach for the backs and as a referee for most of the home matches. Thanks are also due to Mr. Longland, our games master, for his great enthusiasm in the team and also for his valuable help in coaching the forwards. 2ND XV.

Owing to the comparatively low age of the members of the School, it was found very difficult to form a team. This was all the more unfortunate as there were five matches arranged for this season as compared with one last year. General lack of experience and weight were responsible for an unsuccessful season, while for the most part determination was lacking towards the end of the game. * * * COLTS XV. The team played a very good game in their only match and there is great promise of good players for next season. SCHOOL v. A. G. GREEN'S XV. Won 37-3 (5 goals, 4 tries—1 try). This, the team's first match of the season, was played on the School pitch, and was an encouraging start. The forwards maintained a determined attack throughout the game, thus keeping play mainly in the visitor's half. The three-quarter line was, unfortunately, weak and the close marking by the opponents' line kept it almost at a standstill.

SCHOOL v. SOLIHULL SCHOOL. Won 24-8 (3 goals, 3 tries—1 goal, 1 try). The School pressed hard from the start and quickly established its superiority, especially in the forwards. This gained us a lead of 14-3 in the first half. After half-time bad marking by the School threequarters resulted in a try by Solihull, but the School soon recovered and the rest of the game was played in the visitor's half.

SCHOOL v. HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL. Won 28-0 (2 goals, 6 tries—nil). Playing on the School pitch the team once again over-ran its opponents in the first few minutes. The forwards were faster than the visitors in the loose, and heeled the ball in the set scrums, giving the three-quarters many opportunities which were on the whole well taken.

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Date. Sat., Oct. 9th. Sat., Oct. 16th. .. Sat., Oct. 23rd. .. Tues., Oct. 26th... Sat., Oct. 30th. .. Sat., Nov. 6th. .. Wed., Nov. 10th. .. Sat., Nov. 13th. .. Sat., Nov. 20th. .. Tues,, Nov. 23rd... Sat., Nov. 27th. .. Sat., Dec. 4th. .. Thur., Dec. 9th. .. Sat., Dec. llth. ..

FIXTURES AND RESULTS. IST XV. Result. Ground. Opponents. Home A. G. Green's XV Won Home Solihull School Won Hereford C.S Home Won Lost Home Bloxham School ... Magdalen College School •• ... Home CANCELLED. Away Lost Dean Close School Won St. Edward's School, 2nd XV.... Away Sebright School Away Won Cheltenham College, 2nd XV. ... Home Won Lost Home Felsted School ... '... Lost Home R.A.F. XV Bromsgrove School, 2nd XV. ... Away CANCELLED. Away CANCELLED. King Edward's School ... Worcester Royal Grammar School Away CANCELLED.

Sat., Oct. 16th. ... Tues., Oct. 26th.... Sat., Nov. 27th. ... Sat., Dec. llth. ...

Solihull School Bloxham School ... Bromsgrove School, 3rd XV. ... Worcester Royal Grammar School

Sat., Dec. 4th.

Brpmsgrove Colts

For. 37 24 28 8

Against.

12 11 34 14 6. 0

3 5 0 5 8 34

8 0 11

2ND XV.

COLTS XV.

SCHOOL v. BLOXHAM SCHOOL.

Away Home Home Home

CANCELLED. Lost Lost CANCELLED.

Away

Won

18 28

8

SCHOOL v. CHELTENHAM COLLEGE 2ND XV.

Lost 8-11 (1 goal, 1 try—1 goal, 1 try, 1 pen.). Playing at home the team started off quite well and scored the first try. Unfortunately, however, both forwards and threequarters slowed up considerably as play continued, as a result of which the visitors gained the initiative. It was not until the last few minutes of the game that the team recovered, and then it almost succeeded in scoring a winning try.

Won 14-5 (1 goal, 2 tries, 1 pen.—1 goal). A very good gane indeed. It was much fastet than any previous, the whole team rose to the occasion very well. The three-quarter line played its best and was very quick to be off the mark. The majority of the team was slow to fall on the ball during the forward rushes of their opponent's pack. Everton played an excellent game in this match.

SCHOOL v. DEAN CLOSE SCHQOL. Lost 3-12 (1 try—\ tries). This match took place on the Dean Close ground and the play was inferior to that of previous matches. The School was beaten because it did not play as a team. Dropped passes and bad tackling resulted in break-throughs by the opponents. The forwards failed to achieve any success because their opponents played as a pack.

SCHOOL v. FELSTED SCHOOL.

SCHOOL v. ST. EDWARD'S SCHOOL 2ND XV. Won 11-5 (1 goal, 1 try, 1 pen.—1 goal). Playing on St. Edward's pitch the School played a very good game indeed, in which there was real coordination betwen forwards and three-quarters. There was, however, a tendency to slow formation in the loose in the second half of the game. The three-quarter line was much better in this match than in any one previously. Lambert was extremely quick both to break away from the scrum and to follow after the ball. SCHOOL v. SEBRIGHT SCHOOL. Won 34-0 (3 goals, 5 tries, 1 drop goal—nil). Playing at Wolverley the team tried out a re-arranged three-quarter line which established itself very well. The forwards unfortunately played much too slowly and too complacently. Clarke scored a very good drop goal at the end of the first half.

Lost 6-8 (2 pens.—1 goal, 1 try). This match, so keenly awaited, proved in no way disappointing. We were up against a back division which from the outset played very much better football than anything met hitherto. Felsted's superiority outside was counterbalanced by our own excellent forward play. Moreover, the whole side rose splendidly to the occasion in the matter of tackling and hanging on in defence generally. We failed to cross our opponent's line because we lacked thrustfulness in the centre, but until the last few minutes the issue can be said to have been in doubt because of the whole side's gameness. SCHOOL v. R.A.F. XV. Lost 0-38 (nil—4 goals, 6 tries). This was an unfortunate match for the School team in that the R.A.F. forwards were altogether too strong for the School pack. Co-ordination was shattered by the continuous onslaught of the visitors, and although the three-quarters held their opponents the R.A.F. team won by sheer weight in the scrum. Characters. P. H. FEUER. Developing into a sound full back, but injury has spoilt his season. He has not yet learnt to kick a long ball, nor is he always in the right place. But his tackling is quite good and he keeps his head, and has a safe pair of hands.

December, 1943

322

THE VIGORNIAN.

P. J. MILLS. A "very much improved player this season. As a winger he is now running much harder for the corner flag, and he has developed an effective tackle of a slower opponent from behind. But his defence is otherwise shaky. He is still too inclined to wait for the ball to come his way instead of positioning himself. A. H. McKENZiE. Runs with determination, though without much speed or variation of direction. For this reason he has seldom been really dangerous in attack. He needs to learn that passes must not be taken standing still nor delivered mechanically. Tackling sound on the whole. W. DAVIDSON. Has had a disappointing season. At the outset he showed distinct ability to break through in practice and he undoubtedly has " ball sense". But his work both in attack and defence has lacked determination. C. W. WILLIAMS. Has stood up well to some hard games and has become much more resolute than he was last year both in attack and defence. He lacks the speed of a winger, although he really shows more promise there than inside. He should try to cure himself of a tendency to " bunch " his partner and to turn inwards instead of going for the flag. * M. S. CLARKE. Except for a very dangerous tendency to dawdle and get thus caught occasionally with the ball, and for an inclination similarly to get clear of opponents by running too much back towards his own line, he has played a very workmanlike game this year. He has scored two or three very good tries by cutting through as scrum-half and showed ability to adapt himself to the fly-half position latterly. He would do well to practise whipping out short hard passes instead of relying on throwing a long but rather slow ball. Has kicked and tackled well in most matches. As Secretary of Football he has done much good work. M. J. DARLINGTON. Only re-introduced into the team in the latter half of the term, after failing as inside three-quarter, he has adapted himself quite well to the position of scrum-half. He has plenty of determination and is not easy to ground, but is rather slow in getting off the mark and in his movements generally. Tackling not yet good, * R. W. LAMBERT. A. first-class forward. Hardworking in the tight scrums he yet manages to be a dashing wing-forward and is dangerous all the time. His cardinal virtue lies perhaps in the fact that he is always after the ball—usually at great speed—rather than the man temporarily in possession, although he makes short work of an opponent caught with it. He has worked hard as captain on and off the field, although he is not yet quick at sensing a situation that calls for unorthodox measures. * B. J. .MALLETT. A very good forward, who is always in the thick of the fray. Very often one has seen him break through with the ball at his feet at the head,of the forwards and gain half the length of the field. He has gained good tries by sheer individual dash in getting the touch down. Tireless in defensive work, his main weakness would seem to be reluctance to pack low enough in the second row, although he has improved in this respect. * G. C. EVERTON. The most improved player in the side and one of the very best. His success has consisted mainly in the capacity to combine efficiency as hooker with the work expected of a good wing-forward. Always

up with the ball, his footwork is excellent and he is equally good in a rush at short-passing. Finally, in spite of small stature he is' most useful either in or near the line-Out, when he often does splendid covering work. Well done ! E. P. DINSDALE. Although nothing was seen of him in matches after half-term because of his unfortunate illness, he had already made his mark in the (to him) unaccustomed position of forward. Very hard-working, he too had the merit of playing the ball rather than the man. Always in the forefront of a rush, he was equally hard-working in the tight scrums. Everyone sympathises with him for having had so little of what he so obviously enjoyed—a fast gruelling game. K. EVANS. Another hard-working forward who is improving rapidly and is developing a physique to stand the hardest game. He has a good eye for an opening and goes hard for it. At present he tends to be slow off the mark and in watching the ball in the loose. His defensive work is good, and he shows distinct promise as a kicker. C. R. WILDING. Would be a really good forward if he were more determined always to play his best. But he has not always been in good training and has left the hard slogging in the scrum to others at times. However, on his day he takes a lot of stopping and has speed as well as weight. He seldom tackles low enough and must curb a tendency to indulge in " dirty " play. B. PAPPS. Until his absence through illness he showed distinct promise, although he has been somewhat left behind by the rest of the team because of it. His weakness is a tendency to slowness, particularly of eye, in the loose and in breaking up. He has at times, but not always, used his height in the lines-out to advantage. Always a trier, he is only moderate in defence. R. J. LITTLE. Very promising for his age. He is a hard worker in attack and defence, but inclined to be slow and rather clumsy, especially in the loose scrums. In defence he is very ready to go down to his man and is not afraid of falling on the ball. S. W. MEDCALF. A much improved forward, he has worked hard all the season and to a large extent overcome a natural tendency to slowness. He would be much more effective in the line-out and the scrums if his eye were quicker, or rather if he used his eyes more and reacted accordingly. Not afraid to go for his man. * Denotes Cap and Colours. BELLRINGING. The lifting of the ban on ringing led to a revival of interest throughout the country, which had its repercussions locally, and in answer to popular clamour it was decided to form a class in the School. Fortunately those who put their names down (and there were twenty-six aspirants) have the help and the interest of the Cathedral Guild of Change-Ringers. The object of the class is to teach each boy to handle a bell, and to explain the theory of the simpler methods of change-ringing. A ' King's School Band ' would be a unique feature in ringing history, as well as in the annals of the school itself, and its possibility rests with those who are now handling for the first time a bell-rope— their enthusiasm and determination can do it. A.C.F.D,

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THE DEBATING SOCIETY. There seemed but little enthusiasm for the Debating Society at the beginning of this term, and at a general meeting called one Tuesday; during the lunch-hour, only the secretary and one member of the Club were present. It was possible, however, to hold a Debate on Saturday, October 16th. The motion before the house was " Concription should not be carried on after the war." • Champion proposed the 'motion, pointing out the strain that conscription would impose upon the man-power and finances of the country. He looked forward to a country in which conscription was a thing of the past, where men would settle down to building a better and a finer world. Champion was opposed by Davidson. He pointed out the improvement that conscription would make in the lives of many men, and he said that far from spoiling their careers it would give them a broader and a wider out-look upon life. Mallett seconded Champion, and Marshall seconded Davidson. The main speeches had had but scanty preparation, but they were of a reasonably good standard. Feeling in the house was strong, and the Debate proved quite lively. The motion was lost by twelve votes to twentytwo. Mr. Wilson took the Chair.

MUSIC NOTES. The Society, of which thirty boys are now members, has continued to thrive this term. Mrs. Kittermaster, Mrs. Longland, Mr. Wilson, Clarke and Harris comprise the committee, which meets to arrange the fortnightly programmes and to deal with any problems that may arise. As a result of scouring the local papers Mrs. Kittermaster managed to purchase a really good radiogram in the early part of the term; this has been out of action till recently owing to a faulty pick-up, but is now in use and a great asset to us. During the interlude Mr. Longland again came to our aid and we held three of our meetings in his Choir House drawing-room. The following are some of the more popular works played :—Academic Festival Overture—Brahms. A Midsummer Night's Dream Overture—Mendelssohn. Water Music Suite—Handel. Theme and Variations from 3rd Suite — Tschaikowsky. Brandenburg No. 2 — Bach. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2—Liszt. The Archduke Trio— Beethoven. The Oboe Quartet—Mozart. Piano Concerto in A minor—Schumann.- Symphony No. 39— Mozart. Symphony No. 5—Beethoven. Symphony No. 2— Sibelius. Symphony No. 3—Brahms. M.S.C.

A Debate was held in Choir House on Sunday, December Sth. The motion before the house was " Homework should be abolished." Isaac II proposed the motion. He disliked homework because it cut down play-time, and imposed a severe restriction upon a boy who wanted always to be doing something active. He was opposed by Clayton, who pointed out that homework taught boys to do things for themselves. He said that it helped people to concentrate, especially -when they left school, and went out into the world. Isaac was seconded by Ward-Booth, Clayton by Griffiths I. Many ideas were forth-coming, and not for one moment did the house experience one of those awkward pauses, when no one can think of anything else to say. Surprisingly enough the motion was lost by 6 votes to 22. All realized the necessity of home-work on week-days, but no-one could see its usefulness on Sundays. Marshall took the Chair. * » * We hope to hold a Debate in College Hall before the end of term, which will be attended by the whole school. No doubt there is talent* concealed somewhere, and it is only by having the whole school together that we can possibly find it. G.V.M.

THE DANCING CLUB. This term the membership of the Club has increased from thirty-four to fifty, and as before, dancing classes were held twice a week in the gymnasium, where the members received expert instruction from Miss Campbell. Miss Campbell arranged with Miss Veale (the Alice Ottley School dancing mistress) that the two schools should combine for a certain number of practices, and we have had three practices at the Alice Ottley School. Once again Lucas, now President of the Club, has done a great deal of work to make it a success. It is a little over a year since the Club was founded, and during that time it has proved itself worthy of being a part "of the School activities. Our continuing with the Alice Ottley has improved the standard of dancing immeasurably, and we are at last learning not to tread upon our partners' toes. We are most grateful to Miss Campbell for the time and effort she has put into the Club. She has worked unceasingly, and we feel we cannot adequately convey our thanks to her. We look forward with pleasurable anticipation to the School Dance, on December 15th, and we hope that it will prove as successful as last year. G.V.M.

PLAY READING NOTES. The Play Reading Society continued its activities this term with fortnightly meetings in Mrs. Kittermaster's drawing-room. The Headmaster is now President and Champion Secretary. The Society has read the following plays : " Androcles and the Lion " and " St. Joan " by Bernard Shaw; " Twelfth Night " by Shakespeare, and " The Silver Box " by Galsworthy. The Society has had a successful season, and we hope it will continue to flourish next term. J.O.C.C.

THE SIXTH FORM CLUB. Started a year ago, the Sixth Form Club has proved itself a popular and valuable addition to the activities of all the Schools it concerns. It provides an admirable opportunity for Sixth-formers to exchange ideas with one another, and does a great deal to broaden the outlook of its members. . This term's activities included a Brains Trust, a Talk on America, a Youth Magazine, a Debate, " A Woman's 'Place in the Home " and a Party. At the beginning of the term the various schools tended to keep very much to themselves, but after much hard work by the committee they were induced to mix

THE VIGORNIAN.

December, 1943

together, and there is now a friendly atmosphere at all the meetings, and the early restraint has disappeared. Davidson is to be congratulated upon becoming President of the Club, a difficult task that he has ably carried out. G.V.M., W.D. VALETE. JULY, 1943.

Arts VI. Ayrton, J. G. W. (1937-43). Creighton's House. School Monitor. Captain of Creighton's House. 2nd XV Rugger, 1941. 1st XV Rugger, 1942. Higher Certificate, July, 1943. Lewis, J. P. H. (1936-43). Chappel's House. House Monitor. Higher Certificate, July, 1943. Pontecorvo, G. (1939-43). The Hostel and Chappel's House. School Monitor. Captain of Chappel's House. 2nd XV Rugger, 1941. Captain of Tennis, 1943. School Certificate, July, 1942. Maths VI. Ansell, J. M. (1938-43). The Hostel. Captain of the School and of The Hostel. Editor of The Vigornjfln. Librarian. 2nd XV Rugger, 1940. 1st XV Rugger, 1941-42 (Cap '41). Captain of Rugger, 1942. 1st IV Rowing, 1942-43. Captain of Boats, 1943. Shooting VIII, 1942-43. U/O., J.T.C. Cert. ' A ' 1941. School Certificate, July, 1941. Anstey, W. (1937-43). Castle and Creighton's House. House Monitor. 2nd XI Cricket, 1943. Cadet, A.T.C. School Certificate, July, 1942. Badham, M. F. (1939-43). The Hostel—Chappel's House—School House. House Monitor. 1st XV Rugger, 1942. 2nd XI Cricket, 1941. 1st XI Cricket, 1942-43. Vice-Captain of Cricket, 1943. Shooting VIII, 1943. Sgt., J.T.C. Cert. 'A,' 1941. School Certificate, July, 1942. Cook, R. C. (1939-43). Castle House. House Monitor. King's Scholar. Cpl., J.T.C. Cert. ' A,' December; 1942. School Certificate, July, 1941. Goss, W. R. (1939-43). School House. Librarian. 2nd XV Rugger, 1942. Sgt., J.T.C. Cert. ' A,' 1942. School Certificate, July, 1942. Money, N. (1939-43). Castle House. School Monitor. Captain of Castle House. King's Scholar. Editor of The Vigorman. Librarian. 2nd XV Rugger, 1940-41. 1st XV Rugger, 1942 (Cap '42). 2nd XI Cricket, 1940. IstXI Cricket, 1941-42. Captain of Gym. Cpl., A.T.C. School Certificate, July, 1941. Shovelton, D. S. (1939-43). The Hostel. School Monitor. Editor of The Vigorman. 2nd XV Rugger, 1940. 1st XV Rugger, 1941-42. Captain of Swimming. 1943. U/O., J.T.C. Cert'A,'1941. Higher Certificate, July, 1942. Upper V. Fowler, F. G. (1941-43). Creighton's House and School House. King's Scholar. School Certificate, July, 1943. Guimbeau, H. L. (1941-43). The Hostel. L/Cpl., J.T.C. Cert. 'A,' March, 1943. School Certificate, July, 1943. Harris, A. C. C. (1940-43). Castle House. L/Cpl., J.T.C. Cert. 'A,' March, 1943. School Certificate, July, 1943. Matherson, C. M. G. (1943). The Hostel. 1st XI Cricket, 1943. Cadet, J.T.C. Moody, W. A. (1940-43). Chappel's House. House Monitor. 2nd XV Rugger, 1942. Cadet, A.T.C. School Certificate, July, 1943.

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Phillips, F. F. (1938-43). Creighton's House. School Certificate, July, 1943. Rowlands, R. E. (1939-43). The Hostel. House Monitor. 2nd XV Rugger, 1941. 1st XV Rugger, 1942. Cadet, A.T.C. School Certificate, July, 1943. Wells, M. J. (1938-43). School House. 1st IV Rowing, 1943. 2nd XV Rugger, 1943. Cadet, A.T.C. School Certificate, July, 1943. Lower V. Sanders, R. J. (1941-43). Chappel's House. Remove. Price, E. E. (1941-43). The Hostel. L/Cpl., J.T.C. Cert. 'A,' December, 1942. Upper IV. Hewson, T. W. (1939-43). School House. Middle IV. A. Drury, R. V. (1942-43). Creighton's House. Cadet, J.T.C. NOTES ON JOHN TOY (1609-1663) and THOMAS TAYLOR (1602-1673) By Sir IVOR ATKINS, D.Mus.. F.S.A. (Supplementary and consecutive to the account given in the History of the King's School). (Concluded) After his sequestration, Toy went to Walsall, not however to a private school (as Mr. Macdonald suggests in his History) but to the Free Grammar School of Queen Mary, of which he was appointed Headmaster in 1650. In the list of masters given by F. W. Willmore (History of Walsall, 1887) Toy's name appears thus: "1650, Rev. John Fpy" (tie.) Up to the end of the 18th century the list is very scanty and incomplete. After Toy the next recorded appointment is under 1664, Rev. N. (sic.) Barfoot. There is little doubt that this is the Thomas Barfoot who was Headmaster of the King's School from February 1653/4 until he was dispossessed in 1660. Walsall was a very disaffected place during the Civil War period, and it is very strange therefore that Toy should have been received there after being ejected from Worcester as a malignant. This was probably due to the fact that his fine qualities as a schoolmaster were recognized by the Walsall authorities who showed both toleration and wisdom in appointing him. That Barfoot should have been acceptable is perfectly understandable. Mr. G. P. Mander, F..S.A, of Wolyerhampton, to-whom I am indebted for all my Walsall information, tells me that tradition assigns to the Grammar School there two fine scholars, Lord Somers and John Hough, afterwards Bishop of Worcester. He is of opinion that Somers came to Walsall in the time of Barfoot, and this seems likely, for it is very improbable that the boy would have left Worcester in early youth. Mr. Mander corrects the statement made by Dr. William Birch (Chancellor of Worcester, 1719) which Mr. Macdonald quotes at p. 137, that Somers went on from Walsall to a private academy at Sheriff Hales in Shropshire, pointing out that this school, a well known one, was only started in 1676. So this disposes of the ' private academy ' theory. It is probable that Somers went straight from the Queen Mary School to Trinity College, Oxford, in 1667. Now how far do these new facts bear upon the Worcester tradition that Somers received part of his education at the King's School ? It may help in answering that question if we bear in mind some facts of his family history. His father had married in 1650 at St. Michael's Church a daughter of John Seveme, a strong Parlia-

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mentarian to whom the Committee of Sequestrations toration Toy served a further 2J years from Michaelmas in 1646 had granted a prebendal house on the north 1660 to his death at the end of 1663. Thus his total side of the Cathedral. John Somers senior also was a service to the King's School amounted to about 4J years. Parliamentarian. It is not unreasonable then to con- As to his successors, we may be sure that no time was jecture that the future Lord Chancellor who was lost. The Parliamentarians moved quickly, and if those probably precocious began his education at the King's responsible for fitting up the vacant office moved as quickly School at the end of Barfoot's rule (1654-1660), and as the Surveyors of 1649 it is likely that Dr. John Hard-, continued it under John Toy from 1660 to the end of ing, or whoever Toy's immediate successor was, was 1663, passing on to Walsall in 1664(1). appointed before the end of 1646. Harding was holding It will have been noticed that I have put Toy's seques- office in June 1649(1). But though, as the Survey shows, tration at July 1646. So much turns upon the date of provision had been made by deductions from the various the sequestration of Cathedral property, and^ of the manors for the maintenance of the scholars and their dispossession of members of the Cathedral foundation masters, no provision was made for the collection of that it may he well to discuss the matter in some detail, thsse moneys, and the continuance of the school was, especially in view of the fact that it seems impossible for a time, impossible. An Inquisition was ordered in to come upon an authoritative statement on the subject. March 1652/3. This was taken at the Talbot Inn in Indeed those writers who discuss it do so in such vagiife, Sidbury on 12th January, 1653/4. The last paragraph terms that the impression left upon one's mind is that.lj of the recorded proceedings suggests that for the lack apart from the dislocation brought about by the cessation if his salary Dr. Harding had vacated the office of ;hoolmaster about the middle of 1652. By the decree of the Cathedral services in July 1646, life in and around the Cathedral—in the Prebendal house in the College .he Commission appointed to enquire into matters Green and alsewhere—was otherwise undisturbed, Barfoot was appointed High Schoolmaster, and that the great upheaval caused by the sequestration and 'Richard Hoare, Usher, on 2nd February, 1653/4. of Cathedral property came only with the passing of (1) He is, no doubt, the same John Harding who subscribes before the Act for the Abolition of Deans and Chapters, 30th admission ' ad erundiendum pueros intra Hampton Lovett Wigom* April, 1649. Dioces,' 29 August, 1662. (Bishop's Registry). But this was not so. Careful examination of contemporary evidence establishes the fact that the sequestraIn the first portion of these Notes the sentence in the tion and dispossession of members of the Cathedral third paragraph beginning ' This suggestion ' and ending body, and of the city clergy, followed immediately with the words ' of Himbletqn' should be deleted. upon the surrender of the city in July, 1646. It becomes The living of Himbleton was given in 1639 to Thomas clear that the Committee of Sequestration, using an Taylor, for whose name, by some error of transcription, Act of Parliament passed in 1643 (quoted in Scobell that of John Toy was substituted in my notes. Collection of Acts and Ordinances, 1681), proceeded at once to eject members of the Cathedral foundation CORRESPONDENCE. from their houses. In our first search for evidence we turn naturally to the Parliamentary Survey of 1649. To the Editors of " The Vigornian." But though it is a complete record of property formerly Dear Sirs, held by the Dean and Chapter, and of its disposition in It is a deplorable fact that the younger members 1649, the Survey is not very helpful because all the of the School prefer to go to the pictures rather than properties at that time were granted on yearly leases. play or watch games. Is there no way of eradicating Consequently we cannot get beyond the last date of this feeling so prevalent in the School ? Yours etc., renewal before 1649. Fortunately however, the Survey B.P., M.J.D., G.C.E., R.J.L., G.D.C.H., T.G.G.G. does in two instances offer additional information which sheds light upon what happened in 1646. The survey of the property around the Cathedral was made in June, To the Editors of " The Vigornian." 1649. To their description of property formerly held by Dear Sirs, It is to be deplored that the Reading Room has now Prebendary Robert White which had been granted by the Committee of Sequestrations to John Severne, gentleman, fallen into decay. If people thought how much the the Surveyors add the important words ' All which he books, chess sets, etc. cost, they would care for them hath held for 3 years past, in regard of his keeping the much more. Yours etc., Cathedral Library, without paying any other rent thereB.P., P.D.C., M.J.D. fore (p. 175)—-The first nine words are used (p. 171) of » * * another holder. Other evidence is offered by correspondence printed in the Calendar of State Papers (Domestic) To the Editors of " The Vigornian." 1645-47 which shows that by August 1646 the Deanery Dear Sirs, Many Public Schools have printed Christmas Cards, had become the headquarters of the County Committee. By February 1647 the Lords and Commons were giving with the School arms upon the front. Would not it instructions for the sale of the Leaden Steeple. It is be possible for the King's School to do this ? Our coat of arms is one of which any School could well perhaps unnecessary to quote more. It is clear then that Toy's first tenure of the office of be proud, and we feel that we are placing ourselves rather High Schoolmaster was brought to an end by his seques- behind the times, by not following the example of others. It has also been suggested that there should be a tration in or about July 1646, and that that tenure lasted for about two years (1644-1646). Reappointed at the Res- standard school note-paper, with the name and arms of the School, which boys could buy from the School shop. (1) No boy could be made a King's Scholar until he had reached the age Is this a practicable suggestion ? of nine. But in view of the fact that his parents were well to do Yours faithfully, we must not expect to find the name of John Somers amongst G.V.M. the King's Scholars.