The Vigornian December 1954

THE -'l!IGORNIAN

Dancing Notes

FilITl Club

VIth ForITl Club

Natural History Society

Science Society

Christian Union Winter Holidays Abroad

CONTRIBUTIONS

Spectator's Art

Life at Lawrenceville

The Old Curiosity Shop

Moonshine

Edgar Tower (poeITl)

Edgar Tower (article)

A Day in the Country

" Student's Union"

Letter to AITlerica

Correspondence

AcknowledgITlents

THE STAFF

Head Master: F. R. Kittermaster, B.A.(Lond.).

Second l\laster : tH. Ferrar, M.A.

Assistant

* Oxford.

t Cambridge.

tS. D. Strong, M.A.

* A. D. Franklin, M.A.

*R. C. Pedder, RA.

Miss M. C. Carnpbell, L.L.A.(Art).

H. L. Wilson, B.A.

N. E. Dilks, B.A.

Miss L. D. Forward.

S. R. Sheppard, RA.

D. B. J. McTurk, B.A.(Edin.).

H. A. Natan.

L. M. Bailey, B.A.

t J. M. Cash, M.A.

*W. Thomas, B.A.

*F. R. Logan, B.A.

tR. D. Knight, M.A.

*P. G. L. Curle, M.A.

*J. H. Frisby, B.Sc., M.A.

*H. M. Ballance,

*K. P. Barnett, M.A.

tL. F. Hayden, B.A.

*F. S. Sutc1iffe, B.A.

*A. H. Aldridge, M.A.

tM. Shayer, M.A.

D. H. Crawford, B.Sc., M.A.

tG. D. C. John, B.A.

tRev. N. E. Wilkinson, M.A. Miss A. Camp bell.

*D. Vaudrey, M.A.

R. West (Music).

J. R. Barrett (P.T.).

SCHOOL OFFICERS

Head of the School . J. C. B. Coles

School 1\10nitors

Heads of Houses :

School House

G. 1. Owen, J. R. King, J. K. Grieves, P. J. Bulman, N. T. Vincent, J. A. M. Harris, M. T. Baker, C. M. T. Gleave, A. R. Hunt, A. M. Edwards, R. Thorn, C. B. Drewett, B. J. S. M. Lynn, C. A. W. lve.

G. 1. Owen

Castle House J. C. B. Coles

The Hostel N. T. Vincent

Choir House J. R. King

Chappel House J. K. Grieves

Creighton House R. Thorn

Captain of Football J. K. Grieves

Secretary of Football C. A. W. lve

Captain of Cricket J. 1\1. Drury

Secretary of Cricket D. P. G. Westgate

Captain of Boats

Secretary of Boats

Captain of Fives

Captain of Hockey

N. T. Vincent

P. B. lsherwood

A. R. Hunt

A. R. Hunt

Secretary of Hockey P. C. Sykes

Captain of Athletics J. R. King

Captain of Shooting P. J. Bulman

Secretary of Shooting B. R. Parsons

Secretary of Swimming C. A. W. lve

Captain of Boxing R. L. Rowley

Librarians

Secretary of Debating Society

N. T. Vincent, J. A. M. Harris, D. A. Raderecht, M. A. Lees.

D. A. T. H. Reddick

Secretary of Music Society I. F. Hastie

Secretary of Literary Society A. R. Hunt

Secretary of Art Society J. R. King

Secretary of Chess Club M. T. Baker

Editor of The Vigornian .• l\t1. A. Lees

Assistant Editors

N. T. Vincent, J. C. B. Coles, A. L. O. Jerram, J. K. Grieves,. A. R. Hunt, D. A. Pickering.

THE VIGORNIAN

The Worcester Cathedral King's School Chronicle

TA MEN A MANGANO, TA A ZHTO, TA nAPA GEON HITHLAMHN.

VOL. XV No. 2

EDITORIAL

"[his edition of Vigor."2ian is the third of the pre3ent serie3, yet so far the vast Inajority of our readers have expre3sed neither a?proval nor disapproval. One cannot help wondering whether this is a product of the Englishman's reserve or of modern a:;:>athy. There should be no need to stre'ss that The V igorl1ian is the school magazine-which means that it is your magazine and that its success or failure devolves as much upon yourselves as upon the editor. All too often a public school magazine enjoys the splendid isolation of " The Times," never attempting to produce material which will have a wider appeal.

Do not suppose that we wish to revert to the low standard of the popular press. Our aim is to tread a middle path, printing in good literary style articles and contributions which will have so wide a range that there will be something for everybody. The magazine is not the property of the Editors; it belongs to the school as a whole; therefore take a greater interest in it. The greater part of the school seelTIS to think that the only day on which it need associate itself with The Vigornian is the day of issue when copies have to be collected. JVlernbers of the school seem to see their function as purely passive, quite devoid of any active participation, and never exercise their undoubted right of stating through the correspondence column which articles they like or which they dislike.

How many of our readers think that « School Notes" are a waste of print ? How many would like to see a revival of « House Notes"? Would you like more « Sport" and less « School Activities," or vice versa? Do you think that we ought to swallow our pride and allow a few advertisements so that we shall be able to afford photographs? These are but some of the things which the editors must know if they are to produce a magazine which will cater for all tastes. We do not guarantee to put your suggestions into force but they would provide us with a sounding board for future editions.

The standard of contributions has improved but the question of a prize is still with us. One suggestion is that an entrance fee of sixpence should be charged on each contribution, and a money order to the value of all the entrance fees provided as a prize. Age would be taken into account and the editors'

decision would be final. Such a scheme vvould-----or should--produce a larger number of contributions since the rnore entries we received, the larger would be the prize. If this does not stimulate the materially minded modern world then its apathy will become a disease. But once again we would like your opinion. Do you, the school, think this IS a good or a bad idea? (Criticism from O.V.'s will be equally welcomed).

Some alterations are being made to the Sports' Notes. After llluch discussion it has been decided that the accounts are repetitive, all matches being reported at least twice, once in the notes and once in the fixtures. In the interests of economy we feel that either the notes or the fixture list should be abolished and therefore this copy will not bear the latter. But again it rests with our readers. Which do you want? Unfortunately we are no longer capable of letting you have both, especially in the summer edition.

May we end then by urging the school to take a greater interest in the magazine? Let us have more articles on subjects of topical more short stories from the literary geniuses and more criticism-adverse and favourable-from the school at large.

SCHOOL NOTES

Autumn 1954

On Sunday, September 26th, there was the usual school celebration of Holy Communion to mark the beginning of term.

Mr, Cecil J. AlIen gave an illustrated lecture on Swiss Raihvays to the School on Monday, October 4th.

On Thursday, 14th October, the School was visited by an R.A.F. Liason Officer.

Holy ConllTIunion was celebrated at St. Alban's on Sunday, 7th November.

On Monday, 15th November, a Chess Match was played against the W.R.G.S. The School won by 4 points to 2.

The following Thursday Mr. Logan took a party of boys to see lVlajor Stanley's match at Oxford.

Tuesday, 30th September, saw an unusual lecture by Mr. Blades, of the Boyd Neel Orchestra, on "Percussion."

On the ensumg Thursday the Christmas " 0 " level examination seSSiOn began.

The School Dance took place on Wednesday, 15th December. Once again our thanks are due to those who organised such a formidable task successfully.

Sunday, 19th December, saw the last celebration of Holy Conununion for the term., and the usual Carol Service in College Hall.

On the last day of term the Annual Reading Competition took place. 1°3

Upper VI:

VALETE

Summer 1954

BISHOP, E. O.-September 1943. Creighton House. School Monitor. President Science Society. Corporal C.C.F. Shooting VIII 1951-4. State Scholarship to Wadham College, Oxford.

EIDINOW, J. A.-April 1949. Creighton House. School Monitor. Librarian. Editor of The Vigornian. Sergeant C.C.F. 3rd XV Rugby Football. Open Scholarship to Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge.

FOSTER, P. G. M.-September 1946. Choir House. School Monitor. Assistant Editor of The Vigornian. C.Q.M.S., C.C.F. Lancashire Major Scholarship to Christ's College, Cambridge.

GLYNNE-JONES, C.-September 1949. School House. School Monitor. Captain of Athletics. Librarian. Assistant Editor of The Vigornian. Corporal C.C.F. 2nd XV Football, Colours 1953-54. 2nd XI Cricket, Colours 1952-54. St. Edmund's Hall, Oxford.

HUME, R. S.-September 1953. School House. School Monitor. 1st IV Rowing Colours 1954. 1st XV Football Colours 1953-4. American exchange Student.

MASTERS, J. W.-September 1949. School House. King's Scholar. Corporal C.C.F. To Birmingham University.

MEADOWS, N. P. C. P.-September 1945. Chappel House. School Monitor. Assistant Editor of The Vigornian. Sergeant C.C.F. 1st XI Cricket. Colours 1953-54. 2nd XV Colours. Open Exhibition to Selwyn College, Cambridge.

REDWOOD, D. R.-September 1946. Creighton House. House Monitor. Drum-Major and Sergeant C.C.F. To Jesus College, Cambridge.

SCURFIELD, H. H.-September 1943. Head of Chappel House. School Monitor. King's Scholar. Captain of Boats. 1st IV Rowing Colours 1953-54. Meeke Scholarship to Hertford College, Oxford.

SENTER, M. J.-September 1946. Head of the School. Head of Creighton House. Captain of Hockey. Assistant Editor of The Vigornian. Librarian. Sergeant C.C.F. 3rd XV Football. To St. Edmund's Hall, Oxford. Exchange visit to U.S.A.

Lower VI.

BAILEY, 'G. D.-September 1943. Chappel House. Lance-Corporal C.C.F. 1st VIII .303 Shooting. 2nd VIII .22 Shooting.

COOK, D. J .-September 1947. Creighton House. School Monitor. Captain of Cricket 1954. Corporal C.C.F. 1st XI Cricket 195 I, '52, '53, '54. 2nd XV Rugger 1952-53, 1953-54. State Scholarship to London University.

EVANs, V. G.-September 1947. Creighton House. House Monitor. LanceCorporal C.C.F. Captain of Fives 1954. 1st IV Fives 195 I, '52, '53, '54. 1st XI Cricket 1950, '51, '52, '53, '54. 1st XV Football 1953-4·

HARDING, D. A. W.-September 1950. Castle House. House Monitor. LanceCorporal C.C.F. 2nd IV Rowing Colours. 1st IV Cap 1954. 2nd VIII Shooting 1953-54.

KEATING, M. J.-September 1944. Chappel House. House Monitor. Sergeant C.C.F. Captain .22 and .303 Shooting 1953-54.

LLOYD, P. N.-September 1947. Creighton House. House Monitor. Corporal C.C.F. 1st IV Rowing Colours 1954.

MANSFIELD, B. K.-September 1947. Chappel House. Certificate" A."

RIPPIER, E.-January 1947. Creighton House. House Monitor. Secretary of Boats. 1st IV Rowing, 1953-54 Colours. Captain of Swimming. Lance-Corporal C.C.F. .22 Shooting VIII.

Upper V.

DERRETT, A.-September 1948. Chappel House. Certificate" A" Part I. ROBINSON, J. S. M.-September 1944. School House. House Monitor. Lance-Corporal C.C.F. 4th IV Rowing.

WILLIAMS, J. L.-September 1943. Chappe1 House. House Monitor.

1°4

Lower V.

ALLSOPP, H.-SepteITlber 1946. Castle House. 1st IV Fives. 2nd XI Cricket. 1st XI Hockey.

ASPLAND, F. R.-SepteITlber 1949. Creighton House. Certificate" A."

ASSON, R.-SepteITlber 1948.' Creighton House.

BRAY, M. J .-SepteITlber 1951. Castle House. Certificate" A."

BILLS, A. ].-January 1949. Choir House. House Monitor. Lance-Corporal C.C.F. 1st XI Hockey. 3rd XV Football.

BURRow, E.-September 1949. Chappel House.

COURT, P.-September 1949. 'Chappel House.

COSGROVE, T. M.-September 1947. Chappel House. House Monitor. C.S.M., C.C.F. Secretary of Shooting. 1st .303 Shooting VIII 1951-54. 1st .22 Shooting VIII 1952-54. 1st XV Football 1951-54.

CLARKE, M. A. E.-'-SepteITlber 1948. Creighton House.

DODD, R. N.-January 1952. School House. 2nd XV Football. Certificate "A."

DICKSON, P. R.-]anuary 1949. Choir House. House Monitor. Secretary of Hockey. 1St XI Hockey. 1st XI Cricket. Cdrporal C.C.F.

DANCE, R.-September 1949. Chappel House. Lance-Corporal C.C.F.

GILLARD, D. A.-January 1947. Castle House.

HARTWRIGHT, C.-SepteITlber 1946. Creighton House.

]ONES, L. D.-September 1947. Choir House. Certificate" A."

KENNARD, R. J.-September 1948. Creighton House. Lance-Corporal C.C.F.

MILROY, I.-September 1946. Hostel House. House ivionitor. 3rd XI Cricket. Corporal C.C.F. ,

MINNETT, D. C. H.-SepteITlber 1949. Chappel House.

MAY, N. G.-September 1949. Creighton House.

NETHERcoAT, B. E.-SepteITlber 1949. Chappel House.

O'KEEFE, M.-September 1948. Chappel House. Lance-Corporal C.C.F.

PROWSE, P. J.-SepteITlber 1947. Creighton House.

RICHARDS, D. J.-SepteITlber 1947. Creighton House. Corporal C.C.F. 1st VIII Shooting.

STURMY, R. J.-SepteITlber 1947. Creighton House.

TRIMNELL, M. D.-September 1949. Chappel House.

TURNER, R. l\t1.-January 1949. Chappel House. 1st XV Football.

TAYLOR, D. L. L.-January 1947. Creighton House. Lance-Corporal C.C.F. WILLIAMS, P. B.-SepteITlber 1948. Creighton House. BUTLER, M. T. H.-September 1949. Creighton House.

PERIGO, A. J. T.-' SepteITlber 1948. Choir House. House Monitor. Corporal C.C.F. 1st XI Cricket, Colours 1953-54. 1st XV Football 1953-54. 1st IV Fives, Colours 1952-53-54. 1st VIII Shooting 1952-53-54.

Lower Removes:

BROWN, J. R.-January 1949. Day Boy. MACKAY, F. R.-September 1950. Hostel House. Certificate" A." DAVIS, C. C.-September 1951. Day Boy.

Fourth Forms:

LLOYD, D. B.-September 1952. Day Boy. PEGRUM, P. J.-September 1951. Day Boy. NEW, A. P. G.-September 1951. Saint Alban's.

Third Form:

BARRY; R. A.-September 1952. Day Boy.

Second Form:

GOLDSWORTHY, J. E.-September 1952. Saint Alban's. PERRENOUD, M. E.-September 1952. Day Boy. C-LAZZARD, S.-September 1951. Day Boy. l-loDGES, K. L.--September 1950. Day Boy.

1°5

o.v. NEWS

Autumn 1954

CLAYTON, J. F. (Castle 1943-1948) has been made Senior Reportel- on the Sutton Coldfield News, one of the Birmingham News Series.

DICKSON, P. R. (Choir House 1948-1954) has gained entry to Cirencester Agricultural College.

CHARLTON-EDWARDS, W. (Day Boy 1915-1923) son of the late Alderman Charles Edwards of Worcester, has been elected Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers in the City of London.

HALLET, M. M. (School House 1925-1928) has been appointed lVlanaging Director of Chamberlin & Mills Ltd., who have iron foundries in Walsall and Lichfield.

HOPKINS, P. S. (Day Boy 1943-195°) is a cadet in the Merchant Service.

SENTER, M. J. (Day Boy 1946-1954) sailed on September 17th, vvith 20 other English boys, who with him have won Schoolboy Scholarships, to America to finish his final year of education.

SCURFIELD, H. (Day Boy 1943-1954) is doing his flying training in Canada.

STEVENS, K. B. (Castle House 1950-1952) is now at Harper Adams Agricultural College, Newport, Salop, to which he has obtained a Scholarship from the Pentridge Farming Institutes.

UNDERWOOD, W. F. C. (19°3-19°7) and UNDERWOOD, P. C. (Day Boy 19421947) were presented with a Certificate of the Coal l\1erchants Diploma Scheme on October 8th, 1954. They are the first coal merchants in Worcester to be presented with a diploma of this kind. Mr. W. F. C. Underwood is the Managing Director and Mr. P. C. Underwood is a

Director of the Company and a holder of the Proficiency Certificate.

WOLFSON, L. (Day Boy 1942-1945) has become a millionaire at 26. His father is the head of Great Universal Stores whose yearly profits are about £15! millions. Leonard Wolfson who is to take complete control of the business one day is in control of the furniture businesses which earn about one-third of its profits.

WRIGLEY, V. S. (Assistant Master 1938-1940) has been appointed Headmaster of the new Co-ed Grammar School which is being built in the new part of Hemel Hempstead, Herts. He expects to leave Sheffield next Easter and is hoping to find a house in St. Alban's.

REV. LARR, O. G. (1899-19°5) was appointed Vicar of the Parish of An Saints North Collingham, in July 1953 by the Dean and Chapter of Peterborough. He has also been put in charge of South Searle and Beesthorpe, two small parishes.

GRIFFITHS, R. G. L. (School House 1953) is a Sergeant in the R.A.E.C. at Parkhurst, Isle of Wight.

ANDREWS, J. R. J. (Day Boy 1947-51) was in H.M.S. "CoD"\;vay" for 18 months, then an Apprentice Catering Trades. He is now an Apprentice at Regent Hotel, Leamington Spa.

BIRTHS

FOURCHRINIER, P. D. (Castle House 1935-1938) to his wife Betty at Welshpool (Mont.) on June 15th, a daughter (Susan Elizabeth).

'*' '*' '*'

PAPPS (Day Boy 1941-1943). On October 21st at Griffithstrun, Nlonmouth, to Joan and Brian-a son.

'*' '*' '*'

MARRIAGES

On July 24th. J. F. CLACTON (Castle House 1943-1948) was Illarried m BirminghaIll to Miss REBECCA FITZPATRICK of Dublin, Eire.

'*' '*' '*'

M. J. WELLS (School House 1937-1943) to AUDREY PATRICIA JAYCOCK, on August 14th, at Kingswood Parish Church, Surrey.

DEATHS

CHAPPEL. On SepteIllber 27th at Harrow, Nancy Gertrude, widow of the Rev. Canon W. M. Chappel for Illany years HeadIllaster of King's School. Aged 89.

'*' '*' '*'

On August 21st. REV. CANON JOHN DUNCAN DAY (School House 1892-1900). He was fOrInerly Headmaster of Stanford School.

OBITUARY

GERTRUDE MARY CHAPPEL

Died SepteIllber 27th 1954 aged 89

The passing of Mrs. Chappel will revive III any meIllories in the Illinds of older O.V.'s. Those of us who were in the School House anywhere between the years 1897-1919 will reIlleIllber her as a person with whom we stood a little in holy awe. If the Head was known to us as " Daddy," with the Head's Wife we never took such liberties. Later, as one who became her son-in-law, I came to know her well, both as the wife of the Sub-Dean of Coventry Cathedral, and in later years. She was a grand character, with a deep devotion and grasp of the unseen. She had strong views, especially on the position of women, but a tolerant outlook on Illodern problems. She lived to a great age and kept in touch with her scattered family, with O.V.'s, and her large circle of friends by writing innUIllerable letters. She was always well inforIned on current affairs, and was a great reader and knitter. AIIllost to the very end she was able to enjoy life, and to spread that inner serenity which is the mark of the aged who Illidst the changes and chances of this Illortal life have their hope set on the things which are eternal.

Her funeral at St. John's, Harrow, was taken by her Grandson, The Rev. M. H. Tupper, son of the old Precentor of the Cathedral, and, at the Golders GreenCreIllatorium, by Ille who had known her since I was 12. R.I.P.

OSWALD G. O. LARR, O.V.

SPORT

RUGBY FOOTBALL NOTES

This season the preliminary coaching was placed in the hands of the House Captains. The main object of this delegation was to ensure that [no re members of the school would receive the same kind of coaching as that previously enjoyed by the First Fifteen only. The achievement of this objective depended on a number of factors. It required House Captains with the necessary enthusiasm to learn much about the basic techniques of the game and impart this enthusiasm to their pupils. It also required House Captains with the necessary powers of leadership to carry out a training programme and lead their teams on the field playing to the pattern they had developed. Any doubts about the school possessing people of such quality were dispelled by the surprisingly high standard of rugby played in the House l\latches at the beginning of the Season.

This preliminary work so ably done by House Captains laid the foundations for one of the best seasons the First XV has had for some time. The intelligent approach to the game by members of the fifteen was certainly due to the increased knowledge required of them in their earlier coaching duties.

Fortunately all this was used to its best advantage by the School Captain, J. K. GRIEVES. The high standard he set in the execution of his duties has been an example his successors will not find easy to emulate. If the qualities shown by the present Captain and House Captains are inherited by their successors then the standard of rugby football in the school must surely improve with each succeeding generation.

The floods and influenza epidemics curtailed the 2nd XV programme, but from the matches that were played it was evident that this team would have enjoyed a most successful season. As it was the 2nd XV supplied the first team with some most able substitutes when the latter was depleted through illness.

RESULTS

CHARACTERS

GRIEVES, J. K. (Scrum-half). His long accurate and fast service and his quick strong break from the scrum must surely make him the best scrumhalf that has played for the school for some time. He has been an admirable captain on and off the field and has created a team spirit of high quality.

DAY, C. R. (Full Back). An extremely courageous player whose tackling and falling have been excellent throughout the season. Positional play and a tendency to hold the ball too long are his main weaknesses.

COLES, J. C. B. (Wing Three-quarter). His switch to the wing has resulted in a corresponding improvement in his play-especially in his tackling. Has good hands, uses the cross-kick intelligently and goes hard, but is brought dov\rn rather easily.

JAMES, K. G. (Centre Three-quarter). Has shown tremendous improvement this season both in attack and defence. Is fast and possesses an elusive swerve and side step which he has used effectively to create many openings.

WILLIAMS, B. J. (Centre Three-quarter). A fine, at times brilliant, attacking three-quarter, with a tremendous burst of speed. Exploits an opening intelligently and has the ability to kick strongly with both feet. Has scored a number of fine tries this season.

OWEN, G. 1. (Wing Three-quarter). Transferred from the pack he has been handicapped by lack of speed but has compensated for this by his hard running and sound defence. He must, however, tighten up his passing.

DRURY, J. M. (Stand Off). Suffers from a lack of speed which prevents him from exploiting the openings he creates. His tackling, falling and covering have been of the highest order throughout the season though his handling has at times fallen below its usual impeccable standard.

EVANS, S. M. (Front Row). A very intelligent player who is always thinking about the game. At all times he has been a great asset in the line outs and a force in the loose. A safe if not powerful place-kicker.

DREWETT, C. B. (Hooker). His hooking has suffered from having a light pack behind him but he has striven conscientiously to improve. Is now a tremendous loose forward whose covering throughout has been excellent.

DREW, D. R. (Front Row). A fiery, solid, fast-moving forward who is always well up with the play. His main fault is that in moments of crisis he is apt to become a little wild. Uses his feet well.

LYNN, B. J. S. M. (Second Row). A really hard-working forward who has played some excellent games this season. Scrummages well and is a constant example to the rest of the pack by his lineout play, backing up and intelligent foot-work.

lVE, C. A. W. (Second Row). Is unfortunate in being the slov,;est of an extremely fast pack. Throughout, however, he has scrummaged excellently and provided that very necessary amount of weight. On his day a good place kicker.

HUNT, A. R. (Second Row). Came into the side late but quickly distinguished himself. Uses his height well in the line out and is invariably well up with play.

VINCENT, N. T. (Vice-Captain) (Wing Forward). A very conscientious player who never spares himself. Has consistently broken down opponents attacks and backs up well in attacks. Has led the forwards admirably throughout.

HOPKIN, T. P. B. (No. 8). A hardworking forward who is quick on the loose ball. His slight build prevents him from being an effective scrummaging force but he has compensated for this by his enthusiastic loose play.

COSTELOE, P. L. (No. 8). A very good line out forward who is always up with the ball. When in possession of the ball a strong and elusive runner. Should be a great asset next season.

DICKINSON, 1. A. (Wing Forward). A fast back row forward with a tremendously strong tackle. Has plenty of courage which has been conspicuous in defence this season. Could back up more in attack.

BOXING NOTES

Following the retirement of MR. BARRETT from the posItIOn of Boxing Coach we welcome MR. JOHN, who is able to devote his full attention to the sport.

A growing interest among the members of the school has raised our numbers to over forty. Owing to the new system of grouping according to age and weight, each boy receives coaching and individual attention twice every week, while arrangements have been made to harmonise Boxing with other sports, so that the serious can Box and play Rugby without any danger of the two clashing.

As a relatively new venture, three major fixtures with Cheltenham College, Malvern College, and Dean Close School have been arranged for the Spring term, and a possible fourth with Bromsgrove School.

It is hoped that interest will be aroused amongst other senior members of the school now that full facilities exist for coaching, so that the King's School may be represented to full advantage against other schools.

1°9

BADMINTON

An increased interest in the game resulted In so large a number of boys wishing to join the club, that it was necessary to limit membership to boys in the Lower Fifth and above. The Club has purchased five racquets with some money loaned by the Headmaster. It is hoped that next term we may be able to arrange some fixtures with neighbouring clubs.

HOCKEY

Next term marks the beginning of hockey as the major sport of the Spring term. It also marks an increase in the number of fixtures, from three matches to six for the 1st XI, and the inclusion of a 2nd XI. We feel that with the enthusiasm shown by both staff and boys in previous years the game will thrive. The main worry facing the organisers is the availability of playing space, since the School Field usually suffers from 'adverse conditions during the season.

There will be several members of last year's XI However, we do not look so. much for spectacular results, improvement in the standard of our play.

avail able as for this a season. general

FIVES

This season we welcome the addition of a fixture with Cheltenham College, not only for the 1st IV but also for an Under 16 Colts IV. The inclusion of such a junior IV is a new venture which we hope will be successful and it is hoped that further fixtures will be arranged, for match practice at this age will provide talent for future senior IV's.

Finally I should like to make an appeal for the better use of the courts. This should be unnecessary, but the amount of damage that has taken place this last year should not be allowed to pass without comment. It may interest some people to know that the courts were rebuilt as a war memorial to our old boys.

CRICKET PROSPECTS

On paper, prospects for next season are not too good, as, of the five colours left from last season, four are batsmen. The opening attack is likely to be the main weakness, but it is hoped that we shall be able to find suitable substitutes for the talented five who have left.

To have a good side it is essential that the team should be balanced in batting and bowling; that it should be imbued with a real team spirit; that it should practise constantly. We are sure that if keenness is not lacking our problems will be solved, and in any case we look forward to an enjoyable season.

ROWING PROSPECTS

This year we are intending to begin training at the beginning of the Spring Term. The actual results of this innovation cannot be estimated until the summer, but it will certainly be justified. The 1st and 2nd IV's will be rowing on swivels for the first time. This marks a major change, bringing us into line with national trends.

As regards material, the prospects are not brilliant since we have lost all last year's 1st IV and one of the 2nd IV. However, with the river permitting, an extra term's training will probably bring another successful season.

After the departure of MR. R. H. F. CARLYLE, MR. R. D. KNIGHT has taken charge of Rowing. He is being helped by MR. J. H. FRISBY and MR. G. D. C. JOHN.

COMBINED CADET FORCE

NOTES

This term the C.C.F. has followed its usual Autumnal actIvItIes and this stable state has not been marred by any untoward occurrences.

The customary Field Day was held rather earlier this time (8th October) in order to benefit from the fine weather then prevailing, but, needless to say, on this one day in a clear fortnight we suffered dismal fine rain and poor visibility which seriously curtailed the practical activities. The soldiery returned-daITlpened both in spirits and in fact-having been unable to attempt the scheme of attack and defence which generally enlivens the Dtherwise monotonous training activities. ,

During the ensuing weeks the Sergeant-Major directed his not inconsiderable energies to the task of organising the return of equipment issued for the Summer Camp. We hope he finished on the credit side of the account.

On Saturday, 23rd October, the School was honoured by a visit by BRIGADIER GRAZEBROOK, commanding Officer of 159th Infantry Training Brigade, T.A., who had carried out the General Inspection in the Summer term. On this occasion, however, no special arrangements were lllade, as his was a liaison visit and he wished to see the contingent while undertaking a normal training progralllllle.

A representative party headed by CAPT. McTuRK paraded to the Cathedral on Relllembrance Sunday. After the service a wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Cenotaph and the parade dismissed after marching past this lllonument.

We sadly lllissed LIEUT. W. THOMAS who was for a long time this term. absent owing to illness. His admirable teaching and imagination do llluch to interest the platoons in the training, and it is very pleasing to note that he is now fully recovered.

The practice has been continued this terlll of holding cadres once each week for all who have achieved the distinction of Certificate 'A' Part IL These are designed to give practice in instruction to all who are in or lllay soon reach positions of authority, and should be reflected in future results.

In general it may fairly be said that the C.C.F. has continued to improve and Iuature its members, and despite a certain amount of dislike from within the School, the praises of past members who are now in the Services are gratifying.

Thirteen candidates passed Certificate 'A' Part 11.

The following promotions were made during the term :-

Sgt. Bulman C.S.M.

Cpls.: Owen Day Coles

AjSgts. Cleave

Edwards

Cpl.: Rowley

Drum Sgt. LjCpls.: Lynn

Pickering

Clarke, M.

McDonald

Parkes

Reddick, D ....

Hopkin

Baker

Entwistle

Cadets: Bennett, J. Dickinson

Shouler

Handley

AjCpls.

Sherwood

Isherwood

Jerram, A.

Gaston

W illiams, B

Andrews A/LjCpls.

Rowe

Bennett, R.

James, K.

Sloan

Harries

Raderecht

Drewett

Parsons

CAMP

Cmnp this. year was held at Kinmel Park near Sunny Rhyll-to quote from advertisements. Unfortunately the weather did not hold to the assurances of the local council and the tents were surrounded by a sea of mud, but any resemblance to Venice was not appreciated by the campers. However, the ever unpopular night operations were cancelled as a result of this which added a silver lining to the cloud.

As a welcome change from last year, the food and organisation were vastly impro·ved. although there was a certain lack of officer cadets which gave our officers some unaccustomed work. The shadow on the organisation was the departure system, whereby we had to get up at 3.0 a.m. in pitch darkness and start handing in war office property. Naturally in the dark and rain a certain degree of chaos was evident but it is to the credit of LIEUT. W. THOMAS and C.S.l\tl. ]. R. BARRETT that this was all contained satisfactorily.

Owing to the presence of numerous and unsynchronised bands, the Sunday march-past, after Church Parade, was not the success we have been led to expect from similar ceremonies in the past, but it is to be hoped that in future lack of harmony will be borne in mind as a possible source of disturbance.

The town of Rhyll itself provided some amusement although it was not to everybody's taste, and much the smue remarks apply to the N.A.A.F.I. tent, which might have been improved. However, the week was generally bearable, for after all, there are no pretensions made that the camp is designed primarily for enjoyment. It is a military event, and when this is remembered one realises that one's criticisms are in fact directed against the army-and indeed an services--as a whole .

22 SHOOTING

This season's shooting has been largely successful although we have lost 4 of our 13 matches to date, compared with 4 lost out of the 25 shot off last year.

When the term opened we found ourselves without KEA TING and COSGROVE (last year's Captain and Secretary) and PERIGO, RICHARDS and RIPPIER. We wish them luck in their future shooting enterprises.

This year's team consists of four people with 1st VIII experience and four chosen from the large number of good shots who were turned out at the beginning of the term. The task of remoulding the VI I I combined with pitiless onslaughts of influenza tended to lower our performance. All our losses occurred in theN.S.R.A. matches, and since we have gone on to the apparently more difficult" Country Life" type of match, we have twice broken the School record of 688. This is due partly to the keen efforts of all concerned and partly to the continued use of the much appreciated indoor range.

Our results have been as follows :­

N.S.R.A. Conditions. Highest Possible Score 800. Opponent r;Ve They Result

King vVilliams College, I.O.J.\t1. 7 2 5 7 1 6 Won

Sebright School Won 74 8 7°9

Sutton Valence School 762 760 Won

Exeter School Won 75° 74°

King Edward's School, Birmingham. 7 28 766 Lost

Dean Close School ... 739 7 6 3 Lost

Gresham's School Lost 743 757

Wolverhampton Grammar School 7 26 75 1 Lost

Elizabeth College, Guernsey 75 1 V\'.o. vVon

" Country Life." Highest Possible Score 720. vVe They Result

Ellesmere College 69 6 w.o. Won

BloxhmTI School 681 645 vVon

W rekin College 68 9 w.o. vVon

Bromsgrove School 69 8 63 8 Won

Heading the N-.S.R.A. Averages was BULMAN with 95.6 fro:n KING with 95.5.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Vlth FORM LIBRARY

It has been decided that in this and future editions of The Vigornian a list of books added to the library should be printed instead of the usual notes. The most recent additions have been:­

" Pitt v Fox" by Erich Eyke.

" The King's Peace 1637-1641 " by C. V. Wedgwood.

" Art and Architecture of the Ancient Orient" by Frankfort.

" Art and Architecture of Russia" by Hamilton.

" Charles Dickens, His Tragedy and Triumphs" by J ohnson.

" The Evolution of Germany" by Hawgood.

" A'Milton Handbook" by J. H. Hanford.

" Collected,Poems 1954" by C. Day Lewis.

" Bede, A History of the English Church and People" by L. Sherley Price.

" English Historic Documents 500-1042 A.D." by Douglas.

"Robert Crosseteste and the Origins of Experimental Science from 1100-1700" by A. C. Crombie.

" Technical and Scientific Encyclopedia."

" Keist " by March.

" Hauptman " by Garten.

" George " by Bennett.

LITERARY SOCIETY

At our first meeting we read " Berkeley Square," a play set in Edwardian London which sweeps back in time into the social life of Berkeley Square in eighteenth century London. The strange and somewhat amusing plot was thoroughly enjoyed by those present.

Our second meeting, at the end of October, was devoted to the reading of " Richard of Bordeaux" by Gordon Daviot. This play, written in modern English, deals with the historical events of Richard II in a lighter manner than Shakespeare's tragic history. Its simplicity in style made it of interest to the youngest members present.

At our third meeting,. held towards the end of November, we read, in conjunction with the English department, Shakespeare's "King Lear." The play is in this year's advanced English syllabus, and, because of its many difficulties, it was decided to stage a reading of it. We must thank those members of the staff who took the leading parts for making the evening so enjoyable and so enlightening. We hope that in the future similar readings will take place.

This marked the end of an extremely pleasant series of meetings, for what should have been the final meeting of the term was spent in rehearsals for the end of term entertainment in which several of the senior members of the society were taking part.

We are very grateful to the HEADMASTER for guiding the Society, and to MRS. KITTERMASTER for her generous hospitality.

MUSIC SOCIETY

The term's meetings opened with a record recital by MR. WEST, who chose a varied programme to include everybody's taste.

" The Magic Flute" by Mozart, was presented at our second meeting, which started an hour earlier than usual in order that junior members might hear the whole opera.

MR. KNIGHT gave a very interesting talk about Beethoven on November 7th. He illustrated very ably upon the piano each period of the great masters' work.

THE VIGORNIAN

At the last meeting, members attended an organ recital in the Cathedral, given by MR. WEST. The programme was very interesting and ranged from Bach to Saint-Saene.

Once again MRS. KITTERMASTER has proved an admirable hostess with a keen interest in the Society. For this support we are very grateful to her. Finally, we must thank the members of the Staff for their support, and we would like -to remind others that their attendance at our m eetings will be \yelcomed.

THE ART SOCIETY

The first meeting of the Art Society was an illustrated talk given by NIR. R. G. '\T. BRYER, O.V. on Aerial Photography; his photographs were extremely good and showed the members of the Society just how much detail is revealed on an aerial photograph, indicating how useful they are for the Inaking of surveys and the location of ancient earthworks. For the second meeting we obtained Kodachrome slides from London and compared some of the paintings of the old masters with more modern art by looking at these pictures.

The third meeting took the form of a talk given by MR. NATAN entitled " A Summer in Sardinia," which was illustrated with colour photographs taken while on his smnmer holidays. His most interesting pictures gave us a good insight into the life and architecture of Sardinia.

The last meeting of the term was as usual a Members' Night, and various Ilrembers of the Society spoke on a picture of their own choice; this proved to be a very entertaining evening.

Our meetings always take place in the drawing room of the HEADMASTER and MRS. KITTERMASTER to whom we owe a debt of gratitude for this privilege and for their interest in the Society.

DEBATING SOCIETY

It is to be regretted that only two meetings were held this term, as the first meeting had to be cancelled. In this, the first half of the season, some relatively good speeches have been delivered by principal speakers, but unfortunately these were not adequately backed up by speeches from the house. It is noticeable that many of the Inore senior members of the school do not attend the society. This is rather a pity as we know they would contribute to an improved standard of speaking.

The first meeting of the term took the form of three separate short debates on the lighter side. Some very amusing speeches were given especially concerning the motion: " That this house wants to lead a dog's life." The second meeting was a debate decidedly more serious than the first, on a grave, social and world problem. The motion was: " That this house believes that the recognition of full e ;uality between the coloured and white races would prove disastrous to the harmony of commonwealth relations and to the preservation of World Peace." MR. D. H. SLACK, the guest speaker gave good arguments for the motion. He stressed his points with great clarity, emphasising that the white man would never accept the ' barbaric' dark' races to be his equal. He illustrated this by quoting the harm done in India through equal facilities having been allowed to both races. In reply for the opposition MR. P. J. BULMAN stressed the need for equality among all races and said that it was essential for them to mix with each other to obtain perfect harmony. He then went on to say that in New Zealand, the only country which really allows equal privileges to its white and coloured races, there was peace and prosperity. The subjects of ' inter-marriage and the colour-bar in this country were also 116

adequately dealt with. MR. LANGSTONE and MR. SPIER, seconds for and against the motion then summed up their points. At this juncture the debate was thrown open to the house. Referring to a book he had read, MR. VINCENT said that there was a great deal to be said on both sides, while MR. C. R. DAY said that anyone who wished to oppose the problem should feel no compunction about inviting a coloured man into his home.

Speeches from the House were again somewhat limited. After the two principal speakers had summed up the motion, a vote was taken and it was found "that the motion was lost by a large majority.

W,e must thank MR. FERRAR who, owing to pressure of work in his new capacity as second master, was no longer able to have sole control of the Society. He has rendered valuable service to the Society since its cradle days in 1947, and has devoted much time and labour to bringing it up to its present flourishing state. However we are very glad that such a capable successor has been found in 1\1R. G. D. C. JOHN, who has just joined us. We wish him every success in this capacity.

CHESS CLUB

After the customary break in official meetings during the Summer Term, the Chess Club again met every Friday during the Winter Term.. These nleetings were very well attended and it was very encouraging to see a lot of ne\-'\' faces among our members. Early in the term a class was held to introduce the novices to the rudiments of the game.

The Individual Chess Competition was held this term, the Final being won by M. DAY (Choir) who beat J. WHITEHEAD (Choir). Last year's winner H. H. GRAHAM was beaten by 1\1. DAY in the third round.

This term was the first term in which a team from the School was entered in the Worcestershire School Chess League (Division 2). The team had encouraging success. The results of its matches were :School st points v. King Edward's, Stourbridge t point. School 2t points v. Bromsgrove School 3t points. School 4 points v. Worcester Royal Grammar School 2 points. In the Worcestershire Under IS Championship S. C. GRAHAM beat M. DAY in the Final.

Finally we should like to extend our thanks to l\1R. H. BALLANCE for his help and guidance.

DANCING NOTES

J feel that a great deal has been learnt by everyone this ternl; the lessons have been extremely beneficial and the enthusiasm has never ebbed throughout the twelve weeks. Our numbers are about the same as last year with roughly eighty boys learning dancing. Past members of the classes will no doubt be surprised when I tell them that we have now more girls than boys in the advanced class. This has speeded the lessons up considerably and we should have ]earntmore this term than the Winter and Spring terms put together. Perhaps I should mention that we have concentrated on the easier dances of the ballroom, including the popular sequence dances, rather than on those whose staccato tempos require a great deal of practice and perseverance to effect their steps. The Tango was omitted from the dance programme, much to the disappointment of its few enthusiasts, and we had only one Foxtrot as it was considered unpopular; in fact it appears to have had an awakening, judging by the number of people on the floor, and I received a volley of, " What have you done with the Foxtrot?" May I assure you that next term we will learn SOHle Foxtrot, and endeavour to get the Tango on to its feet again for next year's dance.

I should like to finish by thanking MISS GLAZZARD for persevering with us once again and also our charming ladies for their unfailing attendance throughout the term.

FILM CLUB

We have had large audiences throughout the term. The following films were shown:­

The African Queen; Seven Days to Noon; The Wooden Horse; The Thief of Baghdad; Pickwick Papers; Vice Versa.

VIth FORM CLUB

We were unfortunately limited this term to two meetings only as the dance which was planned for December 4th had to be cancelled because of the large numbers of girls ill with 'flu.

At our first meeting we were given a very entertaining talk by MR. BILLINGHAM of the Grammar School on " How to Enjoy Life." We learnt during the course of this talk that he was the author of a new serial on the wireless to which many people have since been listening. This was followed by a varied and amusing Youth Magazine, the highlight of which was ex tempore jazz by the mell1bers of the College for the Blind, although 1l10st of the other itell1s were of a high entertainll1ent value.

On N ovell1ber 19th we faced a bleak College Hall with overcoats to see « Cry the BeJoved Country." This filll1 was deeply moving and gave rise to an interesting discussion on the Colour Question led by BISHOP STUART.

We are looking forward next terll1 to another series of meetings to provide relaxation and cultural pastill1es .for our ll1ell1bers.

NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY

Mter a trial half year it was realised at the beginning of this terll1 that the Society, the existence of which depended not so ll1uch on its periodic ll1eetings as on the industry of individuals, failed in its object of proll1oting the study of natural history and increasing the confidence of those ll1ell1bers less certain of their capabilities. The only way this could be rell1edied was to provide SOll1e project on which everyone ll1ight spend his energies in contributing to a single cause, and so introducing a strong thread of unity into our labo1J.rs.

We owe our success in the achieving of this ideal to the goodwill and co-operation of the Secretary of Worcester Golf Club and his committee who gave us the freedoll1 to use a piece of land annexed to the golf course, for the purpose of ll1aking a detailed survey of it as regards its natural history. It is by far the best of three or four unspoiled areas of greenery left in the Faithful City where our furred and feathered friends ll1ay find a happy hunting ground where they can proceed undisturbed. We are indeed lucky to have been so favoured and we consider it fitting to express publicly our sincere thanks to those who granted the privilege.

Twenty-five inch ll1aps have been bought and made and the large-scale ll1apping begun. The ll1iddle of next terll1 should see the cOll1pletion of this ground-work ready for the Spring when real progress ll1ay be ll1ade.

There is reason to believe great enthusiasll1 in the project will ensue, for already keen interest has arisen all10ng ll1any mell1bers, and it is gratifying to see good response froll1 the juniors who will be the future leaders. The potentialities of such a schell1e fall nothing short of the production of a handSOll1e volUllle, as dell10nstrated by two other English Schools which have already followed the proposed path.

Lastly but by no ll1eans least, we ll1ust give sincere thanks to MR. F. R. LOGAN for the advice he has offered us, and only hope that he will continue to serve as a walking manual of inforlllation for our benefit.

SCIENCE, SOCIETY

The second term after the formation of the Society has been successtul and the membership has increased from a handful of senIors to thirty-five, after the Con'lmittee had decided that keen boys in the Middle School were eligible to join. The first ll'leeting of the terll'l was a filll'l show held in College Hall. The films shown were ;" Warll'l Welcome" - about the S.S. United States. " The Diesel Story."

" Cinemagazine No. 9" - including speed tests at Shelsley Walsh. " Prospecting for Oil."

Although parts of these filnls were interesting, it was generally felt that for the next film show, it would be better if the filll'ls were obtained from another source.

A visit to the Electricity Works, Hylton Road, Worcester, for the second ll'leeting of the term proved to be very interesting. The works were explored inside and out and the method of distributing the power thoroughly explained.

The third meeting took the forll'l of a lecture by G. L. LANGSTONE on his opinion of Einstein's "Theory of Relativity." This was, unfortunately, rather advanced for some of the younger ll'lell'lbers.

The last meeting was another film show in College Hall. The filnls were; " Atoll'lic Physics, Part 3; the Nuclear Structure of the Atom."

"How a Tennis Racquet is ll'lade." "How an Aeroplane Flies, part I; Lift."

These were excellent films both in interest and entertainment.

Our sincere thanks must be offered to E. O. BISHOP and D. R. REDWOOD for their work as President and Secretary last term, and to MR. FRISBY who has helped and guided the society unfailingly.

CHRISTIAN UNION

The need for a Christian Union has long been felt and at the beginning of the terll'l one was fOrll'led. A general meeting was held early in October when the object of the Union was put forward and future plans discussed. Early in November BISHOP STUART, the Assistant Bishop of Worcester, addressed a meeting on the subject: " Is it better to think right, or do right ?" Later in the month MR. WARREN of the Worcester Royal. Grall'lmar School Christian Union gave us some useful hints on both personal and group Bible Study. For the closing ll'leeting of the terll'l we were very pleased to welcome the REV. L. L. LAWREY, a travelling Secretary of the Inter-Schools Christian Fellowship. He gave a ll'lost encouraging talk on the Christian Union and Christian Witness in the School. Numbers have steadily increased throughout the terll'l.

In the new year we hope to continue the generalll'leetings and also to begin regular Bible Study ll'leetings during the lunch hour. Finally We should like to thank MR. BALLANCE for his help and guidance throughout the term.

WINTER HOLIDAYS ABROAD

This year only a srn.all party set out for Switzerland. Quite a lot of boys who had promised to corne could not see their way this year. Let us hope the next party will consist of more boys. We realise such a wintersport holiday is a costly affair. But parents should also consider the benefit their boys get in health and the experience a sojourn abroad brings to everybody. Moreover, the costs have not been increased though prices abroad have risen considerably during recent years. The more boys who join this school party th!= greater are the reductions the various means of communication offer us.

For the first time we went by aIr since BEA nO\vadays offers r.educed fares if the flight is undertaken by night. Since none of the boys had ever been in the air, the thrill of racing through the night in a 'Viscount; was tremendous. 'Ve reached Zurich Airport after a flight of only one hour and forty-one minutes, in other words in less than the time it takes an express to go from Worcester to Oxford. Considering that we were spared a t'ough Channel crossing, a miserable night in a French train, an expensive meal in the dining car and more than three ·custom's visitations we are convinced that flying is a more convenient method of unimpeded progress even if the costs are approximately two pounds more. As the party was only a small one the feeling of comradeship was excellent and our mood was always gay and adventurous, particularly since we heard that the local Bank had paid us out 110 francs more than we were entitled to. As this was its mistake, nothing could be done about it, for we had already spent the amount.

Ski-ing was excellent since the weather was mostly sunny and the snow ample. The advanced sportsmen like John Baldwin and Peter· Venables examined the world from the peaks of various mountains while the rest toiled and sweated at their feet. 'Bimbo' Ingham was a great success, since his talent for singing decided the local' yodellers' to go out of business. Everyone was very grateful to ' Birnbo' since he never spared himself to entertain us and other company. Of course he should have never atten"lpted to finish one of the heavy Swiss cigars. (Boff' got a call in the night to come to his rescue. But this adventure had undermined his physical resistance to such an extent that he could not help tobogannip.g into a brook, a feat which had not happened in Bivio since the Romans last crossed the Alps at the nearby Septimer Pass. Anthony Baldwin not to be outdone by his brother's sartorial antics created a new fashion by appearing at meals· dressed in a most daring concoction of a scarf. The highspot of our vacation was a day's trip to St. Moritz where we watched the Swiss Bobsleigh Championship and guzzled afterwards in the renowned Cafe Hanselmann which employs over 100 pastrycooks and walters.

Among the best of the beginners was Ben Bowkett whose grand n"lanners of a perfect gentleman did not make all of us forget his tender age. As a guest the party was joined by Derek Bell who hopes to pass into the school next autumn. He proved to be a jolly decent chap and, once he has taken the academic hurdle, will be most welcome and popular in school.

Finally we hope to be able to offer some more attractive tern"lS nex t winter which will induce more boys to join In our fun.

Postcript

A Swiss proverb advises the optill1ist not to praise the day before its end. The truth of this adage was brought hOll1e tJ us after having written our report the day before our departure froll1 Switzerland. We took off in Zurich in till1e while it was pouring with rain. We arrived over London in deepest winter which prevented us froll1 landing in Heath Row. We spent an unCOHlfortable hour cruising over the metropolis. While we adults felt 1l10re than worried the juvenile third of our 76 passengers thought this situation a great lark. When the ground ll1ist thickened we were forced to crash-land at the auxiliary airport at Blackbushe in the ll1idst of a blinding snowstorll1. But our ordeal was not yet over. The airport had not been prepared for this emergency· It took hours to summon customs officials and omnibuses and we had to while away till1e in unheated surroundings and without hot drinks. When '''le finally arrived at Waterloo Air Terminal it was four o'clock in the morning. 'Thanks to the efforts of Mr. Bell and lVIrs. Baldwin who met us at this unearthly hour we soon found hotel shelter and the comfort of some reviving drinks. One of our boys said: ' It was the greatest adventure of my life.' I, at least, beg to differ.

From an O.V.

CONTRIBUTIONS

THE SPECTATOR'S ART

To the cricket spectator, watching the game is an art, a sport in itself.

There is a very definite skill in watching cricket which is not apparent to any but .the keenest. The contest between bat and ball is watched with fierce intensity, and each over is discussed and analysed minutely by these pavilion veterans. Nothing escapes them ; and the intervals at lunch and tea are essential breathing spaces imposed by this exacting concentration. Men of this calibre feel as much strain as the players themselves, for each stroke played, eve..ry ball bowled, is, for them an emotional experience.

To the cricket watcher, his game is as the breath of life, and without it, existence would be meaningless. Working in that dingy office with the sound of type-writers ringing in his frustrated ears, the mind of the true enthusiast will wander out into the sun, and down to the cricket ground. In his imagination, too, he will hear the contented sound of bat smiting ball, of fieldsman appealing to the skies, and he will envy those of the older generation who have retired, and are even now watching with appreciative and fixed attention.

The veteran spectator is, by virtue of his seniority, an oracle. For his cc ex cathedra " utterances are listened to with awe, and the captain of the side who is unfortunate enough to earn his disapproval, is immediately submerged in a storm of criticism, from these lip servers. The skilled watcher knows every rule of the game, appreciates each strategy, and is closely watched by the shifty eye of the captain anxious to gain approval.

It is only the oldest members, of course, who gain such tremendous prestige; but out there, amongst those small boys sitting on the grass verge successors will surely be found.

The bar in the pavilion is often responsible for increased membership, although the less humble clubs cannot boast the attractions of the Lord's Tavern. This is perhaps natural, but where there is a bar there will always be plenty of Englishmen to prop it up. It is indeed a source of comfort to the spectator who must have the nature of a stoic in the face of the English climate, so much a part of cricket.

The weather. Bug-bear and tormentor of player and watcher alike. Here the latter must show sterling qualities of patience and endurance when faced with the prospect of an afternoon in the pavilion. Rain is as much a part of English cricket as the stumps themselves; and the rumpled mackintosh scarred by many a season's storms is a part of the experienced spectator's equipment.

Of course this great game is watched by people from all walks of lifet Boys are usually very noticeable at any cricket match, either waving autograph books with enthusiastic abandon outside the pavilion or disporting themselves with homemade bat and ball on the boundary. There, too, are the tub-thumpers, who reveal their colossal ignorance by knowing everything; the idle and well-to-do who, though only mildly interested, feel that their presence is of some importance; the curious, anxious to know wherein the attraction lies, and even the occasional American tourist willing to get a new cc slant" on the English way of life. Lastly there are women, who are often the innocent cause of days of anguish for the keen type. Fortunately however ladies who watch cricket are becoming increasingly alive to the responsibilities of the spectator, under the tuition of a husband, anxious to prevent his wife from dropping too blatant a brick in public. But there are inevitably the deck-chair knitters who come to a match for a little relaxation from household chores, and a chat. We do not grudge them this, but they are unfortunately the curse of the legitimate spectator, and will cause him to jam his straw coater more firmly on his head and retire snarling to the bar.

Various distractions and annoyances are part of the spectator's unhappy lot, the last-mentioned being, perhaps, the worst. Others, such as one's neighbour having lunch while play is in progress, the person immediately in front standing up to adjust himself, an ignorant interloper strolling in front of the sight-screen, all have to be endured.

The means of registering approval or otherwise is in keeping with the dignity of this game. No vulgar hooting, rattle-shaking, screeching, or what have you. Oh dear no! Clapping is considered to be the form, and any other method is frowned upon most horribly.

Scarcely less offensive is applauding at the wrong moment, or worse still not knowing why applause is being offered. Nothing is more irritating than to be tapped on the shoulder while applaudin g a fine fifty and to hear an apologetic voice: "Excuse me, but what's happening?" Disgust for the ignorant is very real; while to bluff one's way through a garne is as m.uch of a social faux pas as it would be to cheat at a bridge party.

What happens to these people during the winter months? Thev hibernate, reflecting Iniserably on the six coming months of barrenness. IJife temporarily loses its purpose.

The only alleviation to this pain is offered by the M.C.C. tour, when every would-be watcher glues himself to the radio set, and drinks in eagerly and thirstily the words of the commentator. He will even suffer untold hardships by rising early if the tour is in Australia, and sitting huddled over the fire in the dark mornings, with a blanket over his shoulders, and nostalgic memories in his heart.

This, then, is the life of the cricket spectator. All may not be like him; but he does exist. I know him as a personal friend He may be old and withered, he may even have a weak heart, but he is part of the landscape on our county grounds. Yorkshire, Lancashire, Surrey, and indeed every club, whether village or county, has many like him. He will go enthusiastically onwards until the end.

" Age cannot wither him," we may say with the poet. Rain or shine, he will be there, a heritage, a memorial to the days when cricket was in its infancy on Harnbleden Green.

Good luck to him.

LIFE AT LAWRENCEVILLE

From an O.V

It was difficult to realise, once having left New York and arrived in Lawrenceville, that I was indeed in the New World. Obviously this was the land of skyscrapers, superhighways and Coca-Cola, yet the cordial welcome extended by the Americans made me feel a part of their society, before the consciousness of having severed previous life-long connections had dawned.

To attempt to give a comprehensive survey of the American way of life would entail years 'of study and research: the observations here recorded must of necessity be considered as those of a student going from the King's School in Worcester, England, to one of the leading three of American private schools, the Lawrenceville School in the State of New Jersey.

Great care is taken here to ensure a super-smooth efficiency in the daily routine. The times for daily Chapel, classes, and athletics are sounded throughout the School's buildings on a system of electrically operated bells. No period begins, no period ends, without the sounding of a bell: and forever are banished the plaints of the recreant latecomer that " Please sir, it hasn't struck a quarter past yet." On the other hand, the master, zealously prolonging <In irksome test, is forced to yield to the autOlnatic knell of the period he '.vas \;>,inly trying to extend.

R. G. L. G.

Many times since arrival I have been asked my OpInIOn of the standards of work here. The answer to those questions is that the Americans are at least one year and sometimes two years behind us in most subjects. This is especially true on the Arts side, where English, as taught to the graduating class here, is of a standard comparable vvith that of the Upper Fifth in England, and similar parallels can be drawn in the languages, both ancient and modern, the histories and in geography. The Exchange Student, therefore, finds the work relatively easy, although at first he may experience difficulty with the American practice of having quarter-hour tests in every subject at least twice a week. This means that much time has to be given to detail in daily preparation, which tends to make learning a mechanical process, and, in consequence, the general study of a subject and really profound thought are somewhat hindered.

True to prediction, the emphasis on sport is very strong. There are luxurious facilities here for many sports, including cross-country, wrestling, ice-hockey, soccer, tennis, golf and basketball, in addition to the main sports of football, swimming and baseball. Letters (colours) are given for every sport practised-a great improvement on where, if one is not a Haydn Tanner or Denis Compton, the prospects of representing the School are very remote indeed. Because an American has the opportunity to play the sport he prefers, there is a conspicuous absence here of the languid intellectual who regards the application of physical exercise to his fellows as perverse and to his own person as positively criminal.

Football (American style), vvith its complicated manoeuvres and strategies, at first baffles the stranger beyond description. However, once one has become accustomed to the participants, forward passes, universal tackling and the pyjama'd referees, one regards the sport as one of the most attractive there is for the spectator. It combines the physical courage and perfection of Rugger, the hair-splitting accuracy of tennis and the supreme strategy of Test cricket. The Old School Tie will ensure that the game never attains a grip on the British public, yet it is a sport which all Exchange Students will feel sorry to leave behind on their return to the Mother country.

The extra-curricular actIVIty life is catered for as completely as are athletics, and great stress is laid on out-of-school pursuits. In order to become a member of a club, a boy must show that his interest in the club is genuine. This is done by having a points basis for club membership. .For example, a boy may have to accumulate a hundred points to join the Camera Club, for which he can gain twenty points by giving a talk to the other members on a particular aspect of the subject.

Immediately noticeable in the American School is the fact that the boys are entrusted with very little responsibility. They do indeed supply the various club and sports officials, but all the administration is undertaken by the faculty. This results in a certain degree of unreliability in the character of the American Schoolboy, and it is noticeable that the average Lawrentian lacks the sense of responsibility which is apparent in his Vigornian counterpart.

Life at Lawrenceville is refreshing, well-organised and ever-interesting. To try to say what are one's more outstanding impressions is not an easy thing to do. Perhaps the best is to say that the importance of time spent in this country is not fairly represented by the facts listed in this article. What is important is living in a foreign country and getting the feel of its atmosphere: one understands more completely what is essentially a far different way of life, and obtains a knowledge of the people as friends, and not as a race from a distant land.

M. J. S.

From the School

THE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP

I looked at the sign and then peeped inside: A real shop with curios to sell. There came a withered man who smiled and cried, " You will buy something? from your face I tell That you have been fascinated." He sighed, I wondered. I seemed to be in a spell Which took me from this aged shop to hide lYre in some old and wondrous wooded dell.

There were so many trinkets of all kinds; A certain dress there was, which took my eye, Because it seemed to dominate the minds Of all who looked upon't. It seemed to fly Way back in time and pluck us thence to find An earlier home than ( Curiosity.'

MOONSHINE

When eventide steals forth upon this land, To cover all in dark obscurity, The heavenly clouds do part, as in a band, Flooding our earth with moon's maturity.

The haughty beams of silver moonshine light The glittering maze of townships all around, Sending over England an eternal might, Which clothes us in ethereal glory, crowned.

The pearly drops of shiny moonlit dew, Which hang, in multitudes, fron1. nature's bealTIS, Cry out to all nocturnal loved-ones to Marvel how moonshine may imbue their dreams.

If all this is condensed into a line, I t may be said that moonshine is divine.

EDGAR TOWER

The distant roar of traffic in the town; The steady drone of talking from next door; The recent paintwork mingling with the brown Of ancient stone rough-hewn in days of yore; The metal chairs, some broken, others whole; The lines of motley desks, the chandeliers And tesselated floor, appearing droll In surrounds dating from med'aeval years. The windows too, recessed into the stone; The ceiling, high, and almost out of view; The blackboard, mixing dark with lighter tone Of ancient walls, med'aeval remnants too. The memories of many a busy hour Spent in the shadow of our Edgar Tower.

EDGAR TOWER

Dear Reader, t:ake a look at the illustration on the cover of this nlagazine. wonder how many" times you have climbed the thirty-eight steps or passed beneath the archway of this beautiful tower without speculating on the life of this building? I doubt whether there is anyone who can truthfully say that he has any knowledge of the history that has accumulated within the massive walls of this magnificent gatehouse during the past centuries. I have set myself a very pleasant and interesting task of enlightening you not oniy, as in this edition, with the history of the Edgar Tower but also of the other buildings around Coliege Green whose long and varied history has been almost completely overlooked for years by most of the boys in the school. Look about you now and take notice of the serene and ancient beauty that surrounds you - indeed, you have a great deal to be proud of.

The exact date of construction of the Edgar Tower is unkno\-vn, though rn.any peopie have endeavoured to give it a figure by the close study of its architecture and the examination of stonemasons' marks: these have given a rough approximation of about the twelfth century. Tradition has it that the tower was built during the reign of King John, for it is recorded that John " did by ali likelyhood build as the statlie gatehouse of his court '\vhich served the priory and now the co liege ." Some confusion has often arisen resulting from the various names attributed to the tower from time to time-the earliest record ruentions it as " ye gatehouse of the monastrie of St. lVIarie," whilst later the derivation "St. J\!Iary's Gate" was aliotted to it. Indeed the steps at the entrance to the Precincts are stili known as S1. l\lary's Steps. The Tower was certainly not built by Edgar and we hear no mention of this name until the eighteenth century. The Gatehouse was then called Edgar Tower in memory of King Edgar, a founder of the monastery.

One of the earliest records that we have concerns the seizing of the tower for the castle by Urso, the first Norman Sheriff under the Conqueror; but King John, being a great lover of the Cathedral and its monks, vowed that he would have the property restored to them. He fulfilied his promise when the Sheriff, de Beauchamp, was caught conspiring with the barons against the King, and as a result had ali his lands confiscated. At the funeral of John, the Pope's Legate and the Earl of Pembroke committed to the monastery the land lying to the south of Coliege Green including the " Great Gatehouse." A restoration of the tower was promptly carried out in 1232, and among the new figures surmounted on the east face of the tower was" a king armed with legs crossed, which may represent King John " The monks built an embattled wall frOlu the tower along Castle Place and down past The Hostel and Castle House to the Severn, in order to separate; the monastic buildings from the castle.

It is amazing to think that the smali house under the tower has been the Porter's Lodge since the earliest days of the monastery. The porter was more than often an old and judicious man whose duty it was to "keep an eye on the inmates of the house, to keep them from wandering, and to keep out young women and other improper visitors." The rules that were set for his guidance are still in existence. They were aimed " against the admission of females, sturdy beggars, tippling strong drunks, the committal of nuisances, the riding of horses through to water or the washing of clothes in the Severn and the enforcement of respect to persons of good quality calling at the gate." Among the Iuany other duties was one to look after the pigeons on the roof of the tower. He was not allov,Ted to open the gates between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. except for the business of the Chapter. A lantern was kept burning under the tower and the porter himself used execution of his nocturnal duties. to carry a tin oil lamp during th"

In 1302 the monks dormitories coliapsed ITIonks were lodged at the tower until their repai during r was the night completed. an·d tll"

?--J ot yery luuch is heard of the residents in the tower but during the civil '.\:1 rs the tower was occupied by the King and Parliament and several bills for ,Ill' delivery of coals to the guards in the tower have been found. The King had j :lther a disturbing time when he was greeted one morning by a volley of ,';i1HlOn balls which were fired from Perry Wood, damaging the tower.

In 1666 the undermasters of the School resided at the Tower and in 1675 It was ordered to be cleared for a Mr. Griffith, a minor canon; he, however, I'd} into disgrace and was succeeded by a Mr. Panting, who was granted a lease for twenty-one years on the condition that he spent eighty pounds on I he general repair of the building.

Nothing more is heard of the Tower until 1746 when it was illuminated ill honour of some duke's birthday; it was still leased as a residence and therein y\'as a charge of four pounds for the building of a « particion a cross the great room at ye tower with lath and plaster work" in the same year. Since that day the Tower has served as the Cathedral Library and Chapter Offices and William Shakespeare's will was kept there until the school took (lver the building for classrooms.

Perhaps you are surprised by these revelations, but we often fail to grasp the fact that they form but one spoke of the historical hub of College Green, the centre of Worcester's history.

P. A. D. B.

A DAY IN THE COUNTRY

The farm we were to visit was buried in the depths of Worcestershire heauty, and consisted in.all of a twelfth century house, a well-weathered \vooden . barn and extensive quantities of surrounding rough and orchard land. Close by was a Church of no uncertain ripeness and no doubt now used as a General Stores.

On our arrival there appeared from the farmhouse the farmer himself. in stature, confident with his entertaining ignorance, he cordially greeted us and went, still wondering where his ladders were, to fetch his tractor. While we debated the feasibility of the events of the afternoon taking a certain course, a startling reverberation issued from the barn together with a first approximation to a modern tractor.

The trailer connected and all aboard, the brake was released. The vehicle acquired a rapid speed and then suffered an abrupt halt

I'm afraid we've had it, lads," came the unconcerned voice "been goin' for weeks."

Winding up the machine, he re-mounted and let himself go down his one-in-six drive, enveloped in clouds of vapour breathed forth by the open cylinder head. After the second stoppage, the immediate action was to remove the boulder holding up affairs and the tractor, to enable the farrner to glide to the hill bottom, where he cleverly avoided the inevitable stream-()bviously well practised!

Our eventual destination was an apple tree from which we were to pick apples. Unfortunately the inexperienced fellows among us tended to drop ""hole sackfuls from. a great height. On filling our trailer we left off work for tea \vhich our friend kindly provided, and which prevented the delicate situation of dividing three sandwiches which one soul had brought, among ;.t dozen people. The meal was of enjoyable door-steps and jam and rock l'akes that couldn't have been more acceptable.

Well nourished, we righteously went to Church with the family for the harvest festival. The special atmosphere of the Church was exhilarating, and there was evidence of one hundred per cent support for the festivity \\ il h the splendid display of fruit adorning the building. I remember the rn'tot' didn't recognise me.

Sti]} intent on the worthiness of the villagers' simple contentment and lacl, of concern over luodern complexities, and having discovered the source ,,f t heir enjoyment and common bondage, we returned home on a frosty with a clear sky and an almost full moon, to the dull, dull city.

G. A. L.

I

"STUDENT'S UNION"

have always -wanted to see other countries but it has been beyond my rneans to go in any of the recognised ways, as an ordinary tourist or with a school party. I found the answer to ITly probleITl in a nevvspaper article--" Why not spend the Holiday "\vorking ?" - I had heard of work camps for young people before, though I had not thought much about it, but now it seemed the only way of seeing some other country cheaply.

Thus it was that I found myself boarding the train for Paris at the beginning of the summer holidays. I had decided to travel during the night in order to save the expense of hotel accomITlodation. After two nights of travelling I arrived at my destination, Les Vans, a little village in the district of Ardeche. We were to help with the enlargement of a bridge there.

There were twenty-one of us in all. Seventeen men and four" jeunes filles " who were to do the cooking. There were ten countries represented in these twenty-one people :- England, France, Spain, Yugoslavia, Portugal, Italy, Egypt, Algeria, Germany and the Gold Coast. It is remarkable that these strangers settled down together so quickly and that they had become such firm friends by the end of three weeks.

We arrived on a Saturday and spent the rest of the weekend getting to know each other. Most of us were still at school and son"le were going to university, but others were working for their living. The Algerian, for instance,. was a heavyweight boxer and had been champion of North Africa for three years. It was not necessary to have any knowledge of French because five or six of the others could speak English, but admittedly it was much easier if you knew SOITle. The other EnglishITlan had been hitch-hiking round Belgium and France for two months without being able to speak a word of French.

We began work on the Monday morning at seven o'clock and we "worked untll midday. After dinner we did another two hours work, making a total of seven hours a day. The work was hard most of the time. We were feeding the cement-mixer, digging foundations and levelling the ground. We were working with local French labourers and under a local foreman, but you did not have to work too hard if the Mayor of the village was not around. ­

After work we went to the river to bathe. We were staying in the Village School and so there were no real washing facilities; we had to ,vash either in the river or in the Village fountain.

We worked for five days a week and we spent Saturdays and Sundays in resting or if we felt fit enough in seeing the surrounding countryside. This was mountainous and barren but very beautiful in a rugged sort of way. The only products of this part of the Cevennes are peaches, grapes, chestnuts and silk and these are only produced on a small scale. For years now the young people of the Cevennes have been leaving their hOITles for the larger towns and so the countryside has become very sparsely populated. The villagers were on the whole very friendly though they were rather suspicious of the foreigners at first.

The object of these camps is not just to get cheap labour; that is just the excuse for them. The real object is to try to bring the young people of all countries together and to help them to understand one another. I certainly made many friends there and learnt a great deal about countries such as Spain and Portugal of which I knew very little; now I can understand their point of view more easily. These camps give you a chance of meeting people you would never ordinarily meet and of seeing places you would not see in the ordinary run of things. Now there are work camps in England, France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and they are being set up in Spain, Portugal and Egypt and in other countries in Europe.

D. A. R.

LETTER TO AMERICA

Dear Mom and Dad,

Do you remember four terrifically short months ago when we all piled into what we considered to be a relatively small sports coupe and headed down the Merrit Parkway to N ew York City? The weather was miserable that day and shrouded New York's skyscrapers. We all boarded the" Queen Elizabeth" for a short look at my first introduction to England where my home was to be for the next eleven months. After five short days on the Atlantic we docked in Southampton, a city which didn't appear so very unlike a seaport in the" States." We were sped off to London from Southampton for a reception at the London Branch of the English Speaking Union. There we satisfied our immediate objective-that of eating a meal on steady land. I was to feel the motion of that ship for days to come.

The next morning I was met in London by a 'bloke' (not a ' guy') from Choir House and he graciously proceeded to show me the sights of London-a city of which in my two visits I have become extremely fond.

After several days spent investigating the world's largest city, we left London for Worcester. Upon my arrival I was ushered into the Housemaster's study where I expected to find someone with a long straggling beard, stooped from years of dodging chalk missiles-a popular American conception of an English Housemaster. Instead I was introduced to a man not unlike any in the" States" and the boys too were not unlike those I had left but nine days earlier, with the exception of course of taste in clothing.

The American private school (same as the English public school) boy wears "Chine" trousers with an appearance similar to those worn by American Army personnel in the summer, a blue button-down shirt with a tweed jacket, striped tie, Argyle socks, and dirty white buckskin shoes.

I was truly impressed by the neatness and conservatism of English dress. I had always considered myself to be a conservative dresser but after a week of living among grey and black, I made sure my colourful shirts and socks were well hidden.

I consider myself extremely fortunate for I shall be able to visit birthplaces, homes and surroundings of such great men as Dickens, Shakespeare, Churchill, Byron and Keats - all of whom we Americans honour and hold in great esteem. I hope to see in action the government that fostered ours and from whom our governmental system was derived. I remind myself also that twenty-nine of the thirty-four American Presidents had United Kingdom blood in them. Our two greatest presidents-Lincoln and Washington "vere entirely of English extraction.

I have become accustomed to the seerningly minute automobiles driven on the left side of the road and also to the English accent which can be as troublesome as mine must be to Englishmen. The slightest difference in vocabulary is sometimes puzzling and I make occasional errors in my choice of words which, while completely harmless in America, might not be so here.

In Iny three short months here I have been able to grasp some of the significance of tradition, some of the aspects of English social life and family life, and most of all, of the 'English School system.

I would trade my year here with nobody, and I do hope that a King's School boy is interested in going to America, for the more exchanges made the better will the relations between the English speaking countries become.

Your Loving Son, DICK

CORRESPONDENCE

To the Editor of The Vigornian.

CHOIR HOLSE, KING'S SCHOOL, December 1954.

Dear Sir,

Not long ago I ,vas in the Reading Room admiring one of the trophies "\vhich the School crew won in the Worcester Regatta. However it gave rne a great shock when I happened to notice that all the slnall rectangular plates naming the winning crew were made of silver except that of ours. This, the latest to be added to the cup, already appeared dirty and rusty owing to the inferior quality of the metal, and it was very indifferent repayment for the prodigious and successful efforts of the 1 st IV during last· season. It appears to lne that in certain quarters of the School the attitude of " I couldn't care less" and" let's be done with it with as little bother as possible" still prevails. While on the subject of cups it is high time that far greater care should be taken of them., as few do not bear the wounds suffered from heavy falls. This is a great pity as just one damaged trophy among several unharmed ones spoils the House Mantelpiece as a show-place. Therefore please let us have a little more thought and care for the School Cups.

I remain, Sir, Yours, etc.

P. L. COSTELOE.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

would like to express our thanks on the receipt of the following contemporaries, with apologies for any omissions.

The Wulfurnian; The Monmouthian; The St. Michael's Chronicle; The Herefordian; The Wolvernian; The Hancastrian; The Worcestrian; The King Edluard's School Chronicle; The Belvederian.