St Mary's Calne News Sheet 12

S. Mary's School, Calne,

(Tien?*

Number 12.

September, 1Q2J.

R. S. HEATH, PRINTER, CALNE.

S. MARY'S SCHOOL NEWS SHEET. July, 1926—July, 1927.

The year 1926 was a very marked one in the development of the School. In January was opened our new Sanatorium ; in September we returned to find great improvements. First and foremost is the extension of the Chapel, which now holds a hundred and twenty. This is a very great improvement and we all feel that it is not in space only that we have gained, but that the scheme of decoration adds very much to the dignity and beauty of our little chapel. To Mr. Durst we owe the plans that have been already in part carried out. There are no windows at the " East " end, so that the whole building seems lighter, now that we no longer face the light. A beautiful plain oak altar has replaced the small one; above this is a reredos of blue and gold tapestry, surmounted by an oak canopy. On either side, filling up the whole space, hang rich blue curtains.

When the scheme is finished we hope to have pannelling in oak all round the Chapel, to a height of over six feet. At present we have to content ourselves with a temporary pannelling of canvas. During the Easter holidays beautiful solid oak doors replaced the former ones, and when we return for the Autumn Term we shall see a beginning made to the pannelling, for Mr. Bpdinnar— as a memorial of Edna's twelve years here—is giving us all that is required for the " West " end. This is a further proof of his great generosity to the School.

At the same time the " leaving " girls have thought of a really delightful present: they are giving us shields of the school lilies and of the arms of the diocese. These, in bright heraldic colours, will surmount the oak doors, and add further to their dignity. Solid oak beams have taken the place of the old deal ones on thekeiling, and these, together with the very cleverly concealed electric lighting, all help greatly to enrich the Chapel in a very marked way. To those who have made this scheme possible—Mr. Durst, our most kind adviser, Mr. Bodinnar, and to all those who have contributed to the Chapel Fund—we are indeed grateful.

There are other additions too. The room which was known until 1920 as " The Fourth Form," and afterwards as " The New Dormitory " has gained very much by being lengthened fifteen feet, while an oriel window has added greatly to its attractions. " Murray " has also been lengthened and contains really beautiful cubicles.

And, perhaps even more appreciated than these improvements, is the appearance everywhere of electric light, another proof of our Governors' care for us, and one for which we can never be grateful enough ; 1926 was indeed a year of developments.

When we return in September we shall find further changes; the enlargement of the kitchens, and a new Form Room built next to Form VI. We are very glad indeed to welcome Archdeacon Coulter as Vicar of Calne and Governor of the School.

We have already had many proofs of his kindness and hope that the connection between the School and the Vicarage may be as close as in old days.

During the year we have had to say goodbye to two of the Staff who have done very much for us. At Easter Miss Symonds left us. after over four years here. Those who were her pupils know best how much she has done for the music of the School. To Miss Monica Jones, who left us in July, we offer our very best wishes for her life in South Africa. If she can create among the girls of S. Michael's, Bloemfontein, the same interest in Greek Literature and Classics that she has created here, she will greatly enrich the intellectual life of the School But we owe her more than that, as her help in the games field has been invaluable. We were very sorry to say goodbye to her, and hope we may hear much of her in the future.

The Confirmation.

The Confirmation was held in the Parish Church on Sunday, December 5th. In the absence of the Bishop of Salisbury the Service was taken by Bishop Bidwell, lately Bishop of Ontario.

The following were confirmed : — M. Butler V M. Briscoe M. V. Cole

G. F. Fleetwood-Jones B. M. Gardiner G. E. Gee H. M. Hussey

J. C. Inder

D. J. Jackson P. A. Lacon M W. A. Price G. M. Turner J. R. Young Twenty-four relations and friends who were present signed the Confirmation Register.

The Archdeacon held a special celebration for us on December llth at which the newly confirmed made their First Communion.

Tuesday's Offertories.

September, 1926—July 1927.

EXPENDITURE

RECEIPTS.

Term's Subscriptions Tuesday's Offertories Hospital Box Diocesan Fund Chapel Boxes Sale of Vegetables

£ *•

7 7 15 0 3 9 611 13 4

d.

6

3i 1* 8 2 4

£33 6 1

£ s. d.

U. G. S.

Term's Subscriptions S. Andrew's Hall 1 Holiday Fund I ' ' Record ' ' \Postage, etc.

Bath Hospital Waifs and Strays Calne Ambulance Diocesan Fund Church Flowers U. M. C. A. Accra Mission Photographs for Borstal Girls Parcels, etc.

7 7 6 2 0 5 2 6 0 7 6 3 9 15 1 1 6 11 10 5 5 2 2

11 0 0 8 0 0 0

1 4 0 6 101

/n

fi 1

In addition to these collections we worked for a stall, which we held at a sale organised by the Parish in November. This was in aid of Foreign Missions, and we cleared £23.

In July we raised £29 13 10 for the School Scholarship Fund: this was by two performances of " Robin Hood."

The Archdeacon of Dorset.

"S.)}Mary's without the Archdeacon! I can't imagine it "—so almost every old girl wrote on hearing that Archdeacon Bodington was to leave us. After twenty years in Calne as Vicar, and twelve as Archdeacon of Wilts, " the Archdeacon " was asked by our Bishop to become Archdeacon of Dorset and Canon Residentiary of Salisbury Cathedral.

Miss Matthews tried to voice our feelings in her Report on Prize Day when she said " It is 54 years ago since S. Mary's was founded, and to-day as I present my report I feel that we have reached a very definite point in the history of the school. In that long period we have known only two Chairmen,—our founder Canon Duncan, and he whom we might term our second founder, Archdeacon Bodington. This is our last prize giving with the Archdeacon as Vicar of Calne, and though we refuse to say good-bye to him we know a break must come, and that the extremely close connection he has had with the school for nearly 20 years cannot continue. No longer will he be here to prepare our girls for Confirmation, to teach them week by week, to lecture to them, to take them over the church, up the church tower, to invite them Sunday after Sunday to tea with him, to join them in their walks, watch them at their games. It has s been an extraordinarily close tie. When, eleven years ago, I first came here I felt I knew of no school where conditions were quite the same, where the chairman of the Governors was also chaplain, father and grandfather to us all, and also what he has so often called himself: assistant mistress. I will now confess to the chairman that when I first saw him standing on the platform to welcome me to Calne, the thought that came into my mind (I did not then know from one of his favourite authors) was ' Is he going to be a Mr. Brocklehurst ? ' Do you remember Mr. Brocklehurst, who stood much in the same relation to that unhappy school of which we read in ' Jane Eyre' as our own Archdeacon does to us ? Well, for eleven years I have known the Archdeacon very well indeed. I have had every opportunity of judging him, and it is only recently that I have been able to trace in him the slightest resemblance to Mr. Brocklehurst. I wonder if he has noted it himself ? Do you remember Mr. Brocklehurst's visit to the Lowood School his horror at the hairdressing of the elder girls : ' I will send a barber

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to-morrow; I see many who have far too much of the excrescence. Tell all the First Form to rise up and direct their faces to the wall.' If the Archdeacon were to ask all the Sixth Form to turn their faces to the wall he would find what Mr. Brocklehurst sought in vain, a row of shaven and shorn heads, and the Archdeacon, like Mr. Brocklehurst, though for different reasons, would approve.

And in that there is an allegory. It is just a sign of the modern spirit the Archdeacon possesses so abundantly, and that has kept him so much in sympathy with us, that has made him the friend of generation after generation here, that has helped him always to see our strong points, to be blind to our weak ones. He has always taken us as we are: he has never been shocked, even at our shingling and other signs of modern independence. I, personally, am intensely grateful to the Archdeacon for his belief in us; it has meant more than I can say. As was said so truly by the headmaster of our boys' school, he has never interfered ; he has always been ready and sympathetic when we have turned to him for advice, and that is why we refuse to say good-bye to him. We know we shall always be able to turn to him for help, and we shall look forward to his visits here and to our visits to Salisbury, and a closer connection with the Cathedral there than has yet been ours."

We felt that we could not let the Archdeacon leave us without some tangible proof of our gratitude for all he had done for the school. Staff, parents, old girls and the present school joined in giving him a Life Subscription to the " Times " Library (Guaranteed Subscription), a gold watch and some study furniture. These were presented to him on March 31st.

The Archdeacon's present.

Miss Matthews of S. Mary's By the nine Gods she swore To give to him a present Who saved the school of yore.

By the nine Gods she swore it And named a closing day, And bade her circulars go forth, East, and West, and South, and North, To summon all to pay.

The sovereign, and the shilling Are pouring in amain From many a stately market place From many a fruitful plain, From many a lonely hamlet, Which far removed from town, Like an eagle's nest hangs on the crest Of rolling Wiltshire down.

There be several chosen people The wisest of the land That always by Miss Matthews Both morn and evening stand Evening and morn the chosen Have turned suggestions o'er For in their hand the choice must stand And their great word is law. and so on, ad infinitum, writes the anonymous poet! (an old Girl).

20, The Close, Salisbury, To the girls, the old girls and the staff of S. Mary's.

Dear Fleurs de Lys—all of you— I keep recurring with my thoughts to those wonderful gifts you gave me that 31st March, that day so tremendous to me, when I tore my heart out and left it behind me, and made for my new home and work in what then seemed a strange land. It was such a tremendous moment in my life, that I couldn't speak, and could only with difficulty see you, and scarcely knew anything more than the love with which you were trying to help me. And so I feel that I can't let the words I just managed to get out be the last or only words of gratitude.

It seems conceited to assume that such things as these gifts mean real kind love -yet it is humble to take people as simply meaning what they say or seem to say. So it has been very comforting indeed in these days of wrench and strain and change and partings to think of 31st March, when you gave me the beautiful gold watch which is, and always will be, on my wrist, a life-long subscription to the Times Book Club, and the £10 10 for furniture (a

study chair or book-case, I haven't even yet quite decided).

Oh they are lovely ! And 1 think back to those terrible eight first years I had to do with the school, and all that we went through, and then to what' the school is now, and forward to what the school will be one day (please God), and I feel so thankful that I feel it would be pointing back to be unhappy at leaving, especially when I shall not be all together leaving.

At the same time you will soon all of you have passed out into the greater school of life, and a new generation will have arisen, and we shall not know one another as you of the present and past generations, both staff and girls, and I have known one another. So that is my excuse for this rather horridly selfish outpouring of love and gratefulness to my dear S. Mary's, instead of my telling you (as I do) of the intense pleasure your beautiful presents have given me. All my friends say they have never heard of such an ingenious present as that Times Book Club subscription, or seen a more beautiful wrist watch. So again I thank you, and yet most of all for the love.

Ever your devoted E. J. Bodington.

Mr. Pullein.

There cannot be many schools in England so fortunate as we are in possessing Mr. Pullein ! He is, indeed, if we may say so, a proud possession. We were delighted to be able to join in the public presentation made to Mr. Pullein in December : we quote the account given in the " Wiltshire Gazette." " After the presentation of " The Golden Legend " at Calne on Wednesday evening Mr. W. R. Pullein, the conductor of the Musical Society, was the recipient of a cheque for two hundred guineas in recognition of his work for the Society, his abilities as a musician and composer, his devotion to the art and his unwearied services to the public for forty years.

The presentation of the gift was made by Archdeacon Bodington, and it caused Mr. Pullein somewhat of a shock. In his long and successful musical career Mr. Pullein has, of course, received shocks of various kinds, but not one like this. Almost before he was aware of what was happening, the Archdeacon had handed to Mr. Pullein a cheque for the handsome sum of 212 guineas,

with an album which is to contain the names of those who subscribed. The cheque was the spontaneous gift of a large number of people interested in music, who felt that the time had arrived when Mr. Pullein's long and faithful services on behalf of the art in Calne and district, should receive substantial recognition. Those services go back for no less than forty years, when most of the chorus singing in the " Golden Legend " he was conducting were yet unborn. He came to the Wiltshire town when quite a young man, and although he has at different times been offered other important organs, he has remained loyal to the town of his adoption. His capabilities are known far and wide—not only as an organist but as a composer— and the.way in which he has " fathered " music in Calne during all these years needs no commendation here.

Suffice it to say, he is still the real live force in music in the town and district, and it is the fervent hope of everybody that he will have health and strength to continue his excellent services for many more years to come.

When he made the presentation Archdeacon Bodington did not consider it necessary to make anything in the nature of a speech; he contented himself by reading the inscription in the alburn, which, after all, conveyed everything that could be said. It was as follows: — " To W. R. Pullein, Esq. The cheque for 212 guineas which accompanies this little book in which are inscribed the names of those who offer it in grateful and affectionate remembrance of forty years of devoted self-sacrificing service as organist and choirmaster in the Calne Parish Church, as conductor of the Calne Musical Society, as teacher of the schools, and of many others in the town and neighbourhood, and as musical scholar and composer, in which capacities he has inspired and elevated in musical appreciation as well as charmed, not only the church and town of Calne but to some extent the whole of this side of the country, is presented by fellow Church people, townspeople, pupils, lovers of music and friends, with the earnest hope and wish that he may be spared to be with us for many more years to come. Christmas, 1926.

On the outside were the dates 1886—1926.

Mr. Pullein, who was received with loud applause, found it difficult to say the few words he addressed to the audience. The gift, he said, was a very pleasant surprise ; he had not the least idea anything of that nature was " brewing " so he was unable to say what he should like to. He thanked the Archdeacon for the words said of

him, of which he was not worthy, and he could only say to those who had subscribed, that, with a full heart, he thanked them most sincerely for their extraordinary generosity."

U.G.S., 1926—1927.

We were very fortunate in haying Canon and Mrs. Veazey at our Health Festival this year. A visit from them is a great honour, and one which is always enjoyed.

The Health Festival was a great success, and a large number of useful or cheering things were sent off to Camberwell. We are so especially grateful to those Old Girls who remember S. Luke's Day and send us things with which to decorate the Chapel.

The school sent one representative to the Second Annual General Meeting of the U.G.S., and several Old Girls were also there. The speakers were Dr. Norwood, the Duchess of Atholl and Mr. Frank May, M.P. all of whom testified to the value of the social work done by girls leaving school. Dr. Norwood warned us against a certain kind of pity which is only snobbishness masquerading as something better; the Duchess of Atholl and Mr. May appealed to us on behalf of the children, and especially of the young people who live in slums It was a great disappointment not to be able to have a child down from Camberwell this year, but mumps held its sword over our heads for too long. And it has not been country holiday weather this summer.

Besides the usual termly subscription to the U.G.S., the school has contributed towards a new hall for S. Andrew's mission district, and also towards a motor ambulance for Calne and the Neighbourhood, while we have also sent to those girls leaving Borstal Institution at Aylesbury, copies of the Watts' pictures which hang in their Chapel.

A. Le Mesurier, (Mission Secretary).

A New Girl's First Health Festival.

It is some time before a " new girl" becomes fully acquainted with all the customs of a fresh school, but among the first that I heard mentioned, at the beginning of this, my first term at S. Mary's, was the Health Festival.

Rather puzzled, I made further enquiries and found that

10

it took place on S. Luke's Day. It is not possible to know everything all at once, so I determined to wait and see.

In Chapel, a few days before S. Luke's Day, Miss Matthews told us about the Health Festival She said that it generally took place on S. Luke's Day, but that this year we should celebrate it the day after instead. On that day we should all give thanks for good health throughout the year, or if we had been ill should remember with thankful hearts, the care lavished on us at the time The service would also be to remind us that there were others who had never experienced such care; for them our offerings were asked.

As a proof, to these people themselves, of our remembrance on that day, we all contributed towards the expense of a collection of necessaries, comforts and amusements, to be sent to the invalids in the U.G.S. districts in Camberwell.

The mission representatives from each form collected the contributions and on one afternoon before S Luke's Day went out to spend the money in the town. They returned laden and all their purchases were spread out to view on the form-room desk, what an assortment! Bottles of patent food, bandages, plasters, cotton-wool, safety pins, hot water bottles, sponges, one or two toys and books and numerous other useful articles. Everyone gathered round to admire and exclaim.

As the Festival was to be celebrated on a Tuesday, the day after S. Luke's Day itself, all Monday afternoon and evening was devoted to the decoration of the Chapel with the things that had been bought. Each form was busy decorating their several windows, and when finished the effect was splendid. All the gifts were arranged with a background of flowers. A monstrous cabbage gave the , coup de grace to one window, festoons of safety-pins and coloured aprons adorned another, and a shawl was gracefully draped around a third.

On Tuesday Canon and Mrs. Veazey came to take part in the festival with us They had come all the way from Camberwell to tell us something about the work going on there. The thanksgiving service in the Chapel took place in the afternoon. Canon Veazey talked to us about life and health and how happy we should be in their possession He then reminded us that there were some people who always suffered ill health.

After Chapel we went into the Hall and Canon Veazey

11 told us about the work for Health in the Camberwell district He interested us exceedingly with an account of how he started a boys' club and with a description of the work done by girls and the openings for girls in the work of the I.C.A.A. He made us feel that we should like to go and help; but as this is not possible yet, we shall, for the present, go on praying for the work and every year sending a token of remembrance on the day of S. Luke, the Physician.

M. Tallents.

U G.S (Old Girls' Branch).

Circle 1.

Twenty-six members sent their subscriptions for 1927, M. Smith. R. Stiles, K. Brown, K. Stone, G. H. Jackson, E. Hollis, K. Prevost, V. Newcomb, M. Merrett.

B. Lutener, M. Randolph, S. Randolph, M. Hulbert, J. Gould, M. Margesson, J. Blaxter, F. Keevil, M. Wood, M. Jenkins, R. Davy, M^Bigwood, M. Joyce, E. Wolfenden, N. Samways, G. Burnett, D. Morrison.

The total received was £4 4 6. 4/- was spent in post cards and stamps leaving £4 0 6 to be sent to the Treasurer The following have not sent their subscriptions: — B. Skyrme, J. Beach, E. Tench, D. Urwick, M. Charsley, M. Stevens, M. Crokat and V. Bailey.

D. Morrison, (Secretary), 4. Westwood Road, Southampton.

U.G.S. (Old Girls' Branch ) Circle 2.

Three members sent subscriptions for 1926 too late to go into last year's account. Thirty-five sent subscriptions for 1927, G. Beale, A. Burke, E. Buszard, M. Butler, B. Chambers, J. Collard, W. Egerton, D. Emerson, R Evans, N. Fisher, M. Fraser, P Gee. K. and M. Hill, M. Hiscock, P. Hopkins, J. and. M. Hussey, Z. Inder, J. Joscelyne, L. Kirby, M. Lucas, M. McKay, I. Martin, F. and G. Pocock, R. Price, B. Ridley, V. Robertson, U. Robins, M. Smith, I. Telling, V. Turner, M. Vischer, A. Wood.

The total received was £5 1 6. 6/6 was spent in

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postcards and stamps, etc., leaving ÂŁ4 15 0 to be sent to the Treasurer.

Three members have not replied at all.

I. C Martin, (Secretary), Hunsdon Mill House, Stanstead Abbotts, Ware, Herts.

To Old Girls.

I have had many letters in answer to my circular about the Reunion, and many expressions of regret that we had decided not to hold one this year. But I still feel the decision was a wise one, as we are hoping that by making it a Biennial event we shall secure a much larger number of visitors. The next reunion will be held from Friday, July 27th, until Monday, July 30th, 1928.

Please take note of this week-end, and remember we shall hope to see a really representative gathering. We have been delighted to welcome a very large number of visitors for " week-ends " during the year. Except in the Lent Term, when the Sanatorium was occupied with " chickenpoxers," we were rarely without visitors. We are always so glad if old girls will suggest themselves at any time.

On January 6th, I invited old girls in or near London to a meeting at Allan's Tea Rooms in Oxford Circus.

Miss Alexander and Miss Hales were also present. It was delightful to meet so many old friends in this way, and I hope that this may be the first of a series of London meetings. Will old girls who do not Jive in or near Town, but who hope to be there next January be sure to let me know, as it would be the greatest pleasure to extend our invitations to a wider circle ?

Old girls responded splendidly to two appeals this year: for a present to mark our appreciation of all Mr. Pullein had done for the school in his forty years of service, and for a testimonial to Archdeacon Bpdington on his leaving Calne. It was delightful to find how ready and generous was the response in either case.

Next November we hope to have another sale of work for the Scholarship Fund. Two years ago no fewer than sixty-nine old girls combined to make their stall a great success. Can we hope for the same help again this year?

E. M. Matthews.

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The following have visited the School during the year:— Miss Abdy, Mrs. Babington (Miss Montgomery), Miss Clarke, Miss Gutteridge, Miss Hales, Miss Hyslop, Miss Stevens-Guille, Miss Williams, Miss Evelyn Smith J. Aldrick, G. Beale, P. Brentnall, A. Burke, G Burnett, E. Buszard, M. Cole, J. Collard, M. DillonTrenchard, W. Egerton, D. Emerson, M. Griffith, K. Hill, M. Hill, M. Hiscock, E Hollis, Margaret Hopkins, Marion Hopkins, M. Hulbert, J, Hussey, M. Hussey, Z. Inder, M. Jenkins, J. Joscelyne, M. Joyce, L. Kirby, E. Kitson, B. Kitson, M. Lucas, B. Lutener, M. Margesson, I. Martin, D. Morrison, K. Matthew, V. Newcomb, D. Owen (Hobbs) and Tony, M. Parker, K. Prevost, R. Price, U. Robins, J. Sorsbie, M. Stevens, R. Stiles, D. Taylor, H. Tench, V. Turner, P. Waddilove, J. Wilcocks, J. Williams, Margaret Wood, Monica Wood.

News of Old Girls.

Peggy Ball (Jenkins) writes from Villiers Road, Walmer, Port Elizabeth, Cape. " We have been on three months colonial leave, and before we left Fauresmith, we were told we were not oing back on the expiration of our holiday, so you now what that meant, everything to be packed, and then stored until we knew where we were going to be sent.

"The first part of the three months we spent with my sister at Wolseley, she and her husband live on a beautiful farm, the scenery is magnificent, and the old house, over 100 years is fascinating, stinkwood doors with yellow wood panels and yellow wood ceilings, lovely, it is the biggest fruit farm in the Western province, there are 100,000 fruit trees and 100,000 vines! so they have plenty to do. I helped them pack sometimes, but it is tiring and boring ! Then we came here to stay with my motherin-law and when we had been here three weeks we were told Dick had been appointed chief teller at the Standard Bank, Port Elizabeth, so then we had to rush round looking for a house. Now we are more or less settled and we are very comfy and happy, and we are all feeling very well and fit. Baby is growing rapidly, I can't keep pace with her clothes, she seems to grow in the night.

f

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" The above address will always find me, but you must put Mrs. R. W. W. Ball, because there are three others in W aimer! my sister-in-law and Dick's mother, we are always getting mixed "!

V. Bailey writes from Johore, Malay States :— " I have been out here just twelve weeks, and it might easily be twelve months, it is remarkable how quickly one settles down to the life, it is so very different too.

My brother-in-law is manager of a rubber estate, so of course we live on the estate, which is miles from anywhere. Our nearest town is Singapore which is 102 miles away, all our shopping has to be done there. Most of it, of course, is done through post, but on the rare occasions when we do go down, you can imagine the length of the shopping list!

Kluang, which consists of a few native shops is six miles away, and our nearest European neighbour is seven miles away. This is a very jolly " district" however, there are about thirty Europeans, three of whom are women. The life on an estate is a Lvery inactive one for women and terribly lonely I've not been lonely, of course, as my sister and I have each other.

I cannot get over how quickly I have got used to the natives, I took them quite as a matter of course within a very short time. We don't get the very hideous negro type here though, but we have hundreds of other races. I could never have believed there could possibly have been so many.

I have been very lucky to have come in for a Javanese Ronggeng.

A Javanese on the estate bought a child, and to celebrate the event, gave a Ronggeng. It was a huge affair, all the Europeans were asked, and there-were about a thousand natives.

We were treated to a meal of curry, then four professional women dancers danced and sang, to a band, consisting of a violin, drum and torn torn. I simply cannot describe it to you, it just appeared to be a shuffle, to spasmodic shrieks, as tuneless as you could possibly imagine it. I could see that there was a lot more in the dancing after watching .it very closely, but it was spoilt by the dress, they wore European clothes instead of their native dress, which really took the charm of it away. The never-ceasing beating of the torn torn was most weird and fascinat-

15

ing. When each dance had started, any four men •would get up and dance with them, in the English Folk dance formation, and so they went.on until the early hours of the morning : we, of course, left when we had had enough of it."

Vera returned home at Whitsuntide and is back at her work in Newport; she teaches games, gymnastics and dancing.

Kathleen and Joan Beach are both nursing at the London Hospital, where they are very happy and are obviously doing well.

Janet Blaxter (Hollis) seems to be very much stronger.

We congratulate her on the birth of her little daughter in July. Janet came to a tea party for old girls given by Miss Matthews in London in January.

Gladys Burnett has been hard at work all the year in the Secretary's Office of the Church Assembly. She was able, by great good fortune, to be present on February 7th when the Archbishops presented the " Composite Book " to the houses of Convocation, and she wrote us a most interesting account of it. All the time the Bishops were in Conference at Lambeth she was particularly busy typing for them. Shte finds her work most interesting. It is wonderful how with her long days in London she also finds time for her Guides, and for many other things, including community singing!

Eileen Buszard has been hard at work all the year, living at home and taking a course in Domestic Science. In addition to this she has been having lessons in French and music.

Amy Burke, who left school in December, has had two terms in Paris, and is now at home.

Mercy Butler is a very busy home daughter; it is nice to see her sometimes.

Gladys Beale left the Gloucester School of Domestic Science in December and has been at home since.

She has had a class of small boys in the Sunday School. In October she is hoping to go out to Ottawa to stay for some months with her Uncle and Aunt.

Madge Bigwood seems to live a very busy life, helping her Father in his business. She is a capital correspondent. She plays a good deal of tennis, and is very successful with her singing.

Kathleen Brown has been particularly busy lately as her Mother has been very ill.

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Dorothy Capewell (Clayton) has taken a little house at Chandlersford, and writes delightful accounts of'her three year old Jean. She wrote in May from Newort where she was having a lovely holiday with her usband, whose ship was laid up for repairs.

Barbara Chambers is a capital correspondent and writes delightful accounts of her Sunday School Class and her home doings.

Marjorie Cole seems to be thoroughly happy in her work at the Wingfield Orthopaedic Hospital, Headington, Oxford.

Joyce Collard has finished her first year at Bedford Physical Training College and seems to be doing very well there.

Dorothy and Mary Crokat have left Clifton, their new home is at Wembdon, near Bridgwater.

Nancy Cooper reached Johannesburg last Autumn, and seemed very happy in her work when she last wrote.

Molly Dillon-Trenchard has had a year at Holmwood Park, Wimborne, working mainly at Domestic Science.

Alice Darch has been for a year in Lady Benson's School of Acting.

Ruth Davy is at home: it is a long time since we saw her, but she is a very faithful old girl.

Daphne Emerson was in Paris for a time after leaving School at Christmas, and has been at home since.

Rosalind Evans was in Paris for two terms. She is now in Oxford, being coached for the entrance examinations to the Women's Colleges.

Nora Fisher has written capital letters from Studley College where she has been very happy. Her last term was spent in the Dairy, learning cheese making.

She has been busy working for the British Dairy Farmers' Association Cheese Certificate, and also for the College Diploma Examination. (General Farming, including Veterinary Science, Chemistry, Crops, Soils, Manures). In September she takes the National Dairy Diploma In spite of all her hard work she has found time to go to Stratford, and much enjoyed seeing Miss Green as Lady Macbeth, and also as Queen Gertrude.

In Lent she attended a Missionary School run in connection with Studley Parish Church, where they had very good lectures and also group discussions.

Margaret Fraser is living with her step-mother in Bath,

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17

and learning poultry farming on a farm near home.

Christine Fairbairn (Croft) writes most interesting letters from her home in Watertown, Mass. We congratulate her on the birth of Patricia Doreen (Pat) who arrived on July 2nd a very good day for a S. Mary's grandchild!

Phyllis Gee is another busy home daughter.

Margaret Griffith had not been to see us for a very longtime, so we were very glad when she paid us a visit in February. She still teaches in the Preparatory department of Croydon High School, in the branch at Purley.

Frances Groves (Farnfield) writes :— The Vicarage, Wheatley, Oxford. " We had a most interesting voyage home from New Zealand and enjoyed every bit of it. We called at eleven ports including Bombay where we stayed for two days. Since we got home we have been seeing our relations chiefly, and it is so wonderful to be near them all again.

You may have seen in the paper that my husband has been given the living of Wheatley near Oxford, by the Bishop of Oxford. We are fearfully pleased about it. The population is at present about 1,000 and is growing fast. It is six miles from Oxford to the East, and two miles from Cuddesdon. It is a most attractive spot, really pretty and healthy. The Church is not very old but very nice, and the services just what we like. The Vicarage is a charming house, with a nice garden, and only 2J-years old and most convenient to run. The old Vicarage, which was huge, was sold about two years ago when the new one was built. The chief work that is needed there now seems to be among the young people of the place which is nice for us. We really are very lucky to have this to go to so soon."

Greta Hamilton-Jackson writes of being very busy with her car, and various home duties Apparently she is very often in request as a bridesmaid.

Dorothy Haviland still teaches dancing. She paid us a visit in July.

Katharine Hill has had bad luck, as after a serious attack of influenza in the Spring, she was obliged for; a time to give up her training at Bath. She hopes to be well enough to return to it in the Autumn.

18

Monica Hill began her training at S. James' Secretarial College in May. Mary Hiscock finished her three years' course at Bedford Physical Training College in July.

Nora Hollis began teaching in January at S. Winifred's, Llanfairfechan. She is a capital correspondent.

Marion Hopkins was in Switzerland in the Spring but has been at home since. Her family has now settled down at Crawley.

Margaret Hopkins has just finished the first year of her Social Science Course at Bedford College, and writes most interesting accounts of her work Peggy Hubbard (Buck) is a very faithful-old girl, and writes splendid letters from her far away home in S. America. She has sent some fascinating photographs of her little boy Derry.

Joan and Mary Hussey are both at home. We are so very sorry for them in their great trouble. Michael died in August, after a long illness.

Margery Hulbert has had a very sad year, as her father died terribly suddenly in the spring. Her mother has left Chippenham and they now live in Bristol, (7, Gotham Grove).

Nelly Highmore writes that her brother is being married, and is leaving Hull, so she and her mother will have to find a smaller house. Nelly has been singing in Sir Henry Coward's Vocal Society. She writes: " There are about 400 members; it really is a gorgeous chorus and he is the most gifted conductor.

We belong to the Literary and Philosophical Society, and get very good lecturers, among others we had Drinkwater and Miss Jean Stirling Me Kinley. I have had some elocution lessons, and went in for the Open Women's Class, and came out sixth—third for Hull - out of -twenty-five competitors. I have joined the National Council of Women (Juniors) and,"go down to a Corporation clinic close to the Docks.

There is a Lady Doctor, four Nurses, and six N.C. W. helpers each day. We are in charge of Mothercraft, i.e. cutting out patterns, and making clothes; weighing the babies ; making tea at a penny a cup for the mothers; sorting out the mothers, and bringing them to the Doctors; and the nicest job of taking the Doctor's notes. It is a filthy place, with sometimes very ricketty babes. There is a sunlight clinic for them. A lot of the women get free food, i.e. Glaxo,

19

etc , from the Corporation when the husbands are out of work. The Dockers, of course, get no dole."

Zeala Inder always seems very busy. She is hoping to be married in the Autumn.

Barbara Isaacs writes happy accounts of her life in Jamaica. She is teaching gymnastics in a big school; the Diocesan College at Brown's Town. She writes : " I am hard at work again and with the joy of preparing for a dancing demonstration for the prize giving at Brown's Town. The Governor is to be there and there are to be no other shows except my dances, so I am " getting the wind up " badly, for no reason really as the girls will be good. The first installment of my hoped for gym is being made—a moveable double beam and uprights! Perhaps one day I may get a gym ! This is a beginning any way.

I have instituted " Green Stripes" at Brampton !

They are simply terrible in the way they lounge and carry themselves, so I shall try and see what stripes will do ; only three have won them this half and I am fearfully disappointed. I am also trying to bring in tunics for gym two inches above the knee ! They wear their uniform of middy and skirt now, and as most skirts are below the knee you can't see whether they are bending their knees are not."

Myfanwy Jenkins seems happy in her work at S. Helen's Abingdon.

Joan Joscelyne was for a time studying Art at the Byam Shaw and Vicat Cole School in Kensington. She returns to India with her parents in the Autumn.

Mollie Joyce was another old girl who had not been to see us for a long time, so we were very glad to have her here in February. She has been doing secretarial work for several years in a London office.

Morwenna Kendall has been at home since she left Bath School of Domestic Science last July.

Olive Kendall taught music for a time in a school in Switzerland.

Lucy Kirby is a home daughter at present.

Elisabeth Kifson took the English Tripos in June, and is to read for the Anthropological Tripos. She will be the only student at Girton to do so. We congratulate her on playing tennis for the College Barbara Kitson is still at the Slade School; she is also studying singing. We were so glad to see both Elisabeth and Barbara in July.

20

Marguerite Lucas has a very interesting post as secretary to a landscape gardener. Her little sister is to join the school this term.

Barbara Lutener paid us a visit in March ; it was delightful to see her at S. Mary's again after five years.

Christine is busy at home, singing and looking after her Brownies.

Ivy Martin always seems immensely busy with her Guides, Women's Institutes, chickens, and so on Mary Margesson is training at S. Denys' College, Warminster. She has been accepted by the U.M.C.A. and hopes to go out to Central Africa next Spring.

Dorothy Morrison writes: " I was in Scotland most of January and went to Madeira in the middle of February until just before Easter; the climate was heavenly, and so were the many flowers and much bathing and tennis. After Easter I actually was at home for a few weeks. Then the whole of June I was in Switzerland, and had an absolutely perfect time. We went first to Engelberg and walked hard, and then down to the Lake of of Lucerne for the last week. After a week at home I came down here (ChagfordJ ; then I am going to the Isle of Wight to stay with friends. The family is still house hunting." .

Margaret McKay writes : " Our latest excitement in Oshogbo was the celebrating of Armistice Day. All the Europeans in the town, and all the chiefs in Oshogbo and the surrounding district, and the schools and different denominations of the church turned out for a big ceremony on the football field, to keep the Two Minutes Silence. The District Officer read a speech, and there was a short service after the Silence. It was really rather nice to think that we were trying to keep the Silence with everyone else in so many places.

All the chiefs had been told to turn out in their finery, and it really was quite a good show, all the horses (which are really awful specimens compared with English ones,) with masses of trappings on them, and very heavy stirrups of brass; then the huge coloured umbrellas held over the chiefs, and the fans going all the time, and the drummers and dancers. All the chiefs' wives came, with their hair dressed specially for the occasion. Some of the chiefs are Mohammedans, but they were all at the ceremony;

21

one chief had a man especially appointed to come every few minutes to remind him to keep his hours of prayer! Some of the robes and beaded headdresses that were worn were very fine. Bands of hunters fired their guns as a signal for the Silence, the whole ceremony was really very impressiye. ÂŁ110 was collected in the town by the sale of poppies for the British Legion."

Margaret returned to England in the Spring. She is hoping to be married on October 30th, and as her fiance is in the Nigerian Government service she will live in W. Africa.

Dorothy Owen (Hobbs} writes happy accounts of her little Tony. Dorothy was very kind to Margaret Telling who was ill, and in a hospital near her for some months.

Margery Parker was married in August to Mr. Scott, of the Royal Signals. They both came in, unexpectedly, one day when they were passing through Calne.

Frances Pocock is taking a three years' course preparatory to becoming a teacher of secretarial work.

Grace is at home working at poultry.

Joyce Powell has taken a course of Domestic Science in Exeter, and now has a post as under matron at Southlands School, Exmouth.

Katharine Prevost is a very busy home daughter. She has so many interests. Annette is still at school in Hastings. We are glad to have better accounts of Connie, though it is sad to think that she is still living so much of an invalid life.

Rosamund Price had two terms at La Grande Carree, Tours. She came home at Easter, and was presented in June.

Margaret Randolph's wedding is fixed for September 3rd.

She has been five years as Governess to Mrs. Ford's little girls, and some of their friends, first in Harrow, and then in York. One of her " old girls," Mary Goodden, came to S. Mary's last September.

Susan Randolph is still teaching music; she seems to have a delightful post at the New Beacon, Sevenoaks.

Joan Rew is keeping house for her brother in Samford Courtenay.

Ursula Robins seems to live a very full and gay life at home. We often hear of her.

Nora Samways has had another year's music in London and now has a post at Badminton School, Bristol,

22

where she is to teach Violin and some Piano.

Averil Savory has a very full life as assistant nurse at Hurstpierpoint College.

Millicent Short was on the continent for some time and wrote from Italy to say she was hoping- to begin secretarial training with Miss Kerr Sander.

Barbara Skyrme has been taking a course in Domestic Science atTrowbridge in preparation for her marriage.

Marguerite Smith is still teaching near enough to Calne to get home each week.

Gwendoline Smith is training in nursing at the Buchanan Hospital, S. Leonards-on-S.ea.

Jean Sorsbie is teaching at The Laurels, Rugby, and is enthusiastically running Guides there.

Rachel Stiles is a busy home daughter.

Margaret Legh-Smith is at home.

Kathleen Stone writes from Canterbury:— " I am still private nursing, but will probably give it up in the New Year and go home for a time, and then I am hoping to get a post as nurse on board ship, possibly the Cunard Line; it will be rather jolly to travel. Betty is leaving school this term and will be at home for a while, keeping up her music and drawing."

Dulcie Taylor has had great sorrows in the death of both her mother and her father. She is now living with her uncle and aunt in Cambridge (Hilary House, Storey's Way). It was very nice to have her for a visit in July. She keeps up her Violin and practises for two hours a day, and has many other interests, so she is a busy person.

Helen Tench is giving up her post at Channing House School in order to take up dancing. She is a very energetic person and has lately been giving illustrated lectures on the history of dancing. We were greatly interested in the one she gave us here. Helen makes splendid holiday plans and has lately been both to Portugal and Italy.

Eleanora Tench has just finished her third year at the School of Domestic Science in Edinburgh, but as she missed a term owing to illness she is going back until Christmas.

Philippa Trousdell has been in France with her brother and his boys and wrote in May from her aunt's house, to which the family had migrated while the brothers were at home with their families. Philippa was busy

23

making smocks ; she gives demonstrations in smocking and hopes to send some of her work to exhibitions in London.

Valerie Turner is training as a nursery nurse in Highgate.

Doreen Urwick has had a year's training in Journalism, and has found it very interesting. She has now accepted a post as Junior English Mistress in West Kirby County School where her sister is Gymnastic Mistress She writes from Veeve, Walcheren :— " In some ways I shall be very sorry to leave London, and I like my own work. It is great fun dashing about reporting things, you have to finish something somewhere at 6.15 and be somewhere else for the next at 6 it is also very lucrative, as in a few days I cleared enough to come to Holland for a fortnight. We are having a lovely time. I had to bring in Antwerp because its Belgium ';.Ve went there for the day only, but it was exciting crossing the frontier, and changing our money and language and watches, and then changing them all back again a few hours later. We saw some of the sights and drank a lot of coffee and came home again. " We " is someone from College and me. It is also some times about eight English people, a little colony of artists and their wives. We, meaning everybody, all went in a fishing boat to another island a few days ago, starting in the dawn and coming back with suns setting and moons rising all over the place, most romantic, and getting in at midnight. People are just terribly nice here, all the peasant people smile and say unintelligible things about the weather, and the ones we meet properly are just as friendly. We are going sailing to-morrow with two Dutchmen who look like Hereward the Wake and stout Cortez mixed—golden hair and what not. The woman we live with is a dear; she wears the real peasant costume except for shoes instead of clogs, and her husband is concealed behind a black beard and a flat Dutch cap. He is a fisherman, but quite a mild one ; some wear ear-rings and barbaric gold ornaments."

Mary Vischer has left Lansdowne House School in Edinburgh and is hoping to go up to the University.

Her father has been given a living in Kent, and Mary seems glad to have left Scotland.

24

Anne Wood writes:— '' I still go up to London for lessons and practices on four or five days in the week, and I still practise about three hours a day plus about an hour's harmony and an hour's German.

I'm sure I told you that I was singing at the Petersfield Musical Festival which really was rather exciting. I still do a great deal of work at S. Martinin-the-Fields with Arnold Goldsbrough, some solo work and a lot of chorus. I was doing solo work with the S. Martin's Choral Society when they did "Judas Maccabaeus" a fortnight ago, that was awfully good fun. Then the S. Martin's Bach Cantata Choir, to which I belong, did " Jesu, Priceless Treasure " last Sunday I may go to York early in July with my master to hear the Mass, and I may broadcast in Glasgow and Edinburgh during next winter; and that really is the extent of my news. Otherwise I lead the usual Student's life, amazingly good fun, amazingly interesting and wonderfully busy. My master encourages me to read as much as possible, in every direction, so that I get through a good deal altogether.

You will probably see in next month's issue of the " Headway " that a large fete was held at Holmbush near Horsham, in aid of Horsham and Crawley L.N U. branches. It has been a most marvellous show. We got Lord Cecil down and a crowd of about 1000 people to listen to him, which is absolutely immense for sleepy Sussex. During the afternoon and evening we estimate that about 2000 people came in and out. It was great fun at the time, especially as it was such a success, and Lord Cecil was magnificent.

But the work for the last three months has been terrific, as you can imagine! L.N.U. is my hobby and we really work very hard."

Pamela Waddiloye has finished her training at Queen Mary's Hospital, Carshalton, and hopes to begin at King's College Hospital in the Autumn. She had a nice time on the Riviera with her aunt in the Spring.

Dorothy Wilson (Baines) was for some time at Blackdown, near Farnboro., where Miss Matthews visited her, and found her small son John a delightful person. Since then Captain Wilson has been moved to Folkestone, and John's little sister, Jean Mary, has arrived.

25

Joscelyne Wilcocks came to see us in September. Cecilia has been in Canada for some time.

Eileen Wolfenden writes from Truro, where she has a post as Gymnastic and Games Mistress.

Ellen Wood has left her school in Sunningdale and is living at home.

Monica Wood had a serious accident in France last summer, and was obliged to be at home until Christmas. She is now teaching at Mrs. Francillon's School of Domestic Science in Uplyme, where she seems to be very happy. We are hoping she may soon count among her pupils some of our own old girls.

Margaret Wood left Abbots Bromley at Easter and is to have a year's course at Gloucester School of Domestic Science.

Of the Girls who left in July:— Edna Bodinnar (came 1915 3) Head of the School, is at home for the present, and is hoping to go abroad for the winter with her mother.

Cicely Cobb (came 1921 l)[is going up to Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, to read English.

Alice Le Mesurier (came 1921 3) is going up to Westfield College where she has won a scholarship, to read History.

Freda Bartlett (came 1920 2) is going to Lausanne to study French Jean Ferguson (came 1922 2) is going to Queen's College, Harley Street, to take a course of Domestic Science.

It has been very hard to say goodbye to such a splendid body of prefects, all of whom have been with us so long. Edna, with a record of twelve years in the school, will especially be missed. We give them our very best wishes for the future.

Other girls leaving in July are:— Adela Bradford (came 1923 :i) is going to Paris for a few months, and then will be at home.

Gwynned Turner (came 1921 ' ) has already gone off to Canada with her Mother to join her Father in Montreal. She is hoping to take up Physical Training and may possibly be going to McGill University to join the School of Physical Education there.

Jean Beckett (came 1923 :i) is soing to be a very busy home daughter, as her Mother is ill and needs her help.

26

Winifred Murrell (came 1924 3) is going into business in London. It is very interesting- to think of the new line she is marking out for herself.

Yvonne Bartlett (came 1920 2) is going to Lausanne with Freda.

Several younger ones2are also leaving : — Rosie Heath (came 1917 ) is to be at home at present.

Sheila Ferguson (came 1923 '2j is3 going to a larger school.

Araby McClintock (came 1926 ), whose Father has an appointment in Edinburgh, is going to school there.

Eileen Gunning (came 1922 2) is going away to school in Tewkesbury.

Miss Abdy is still teaching in Reading. She is most faithful to S. Mary's and pays us a visit every term.

Mrs. Babington (Miss Montgomery) has paid us two visits; it was delightful to have her here for the Drill Competition. We congratulate her on the birth of Richard Andrew in July.

Miss Bailey is Matron in a school in Scotland.

Miss Clarke left Granville School, Leicester, in July We were so glad to see her in March. She has just been appointed to the Headship of a little Preparatory School, S. Anthony's, at Worksop and begins work there in September.

Miss Edwards and Miss Rountree left S. Katherine's, Heatherton Park in July and have taken a school at Chesham Bois.

Miss Gibson left her post as Classical mistress in Northwitch last autumn and is doing Parish work in West Ham. Miss Gutteridge is still teaching music at Dovercourt Secondary School Miss Hales is still at Darlington Training College; the life seems to suit her admirably. We were so glad to see her in July.

Miss Helliwell is still at Clapham High School.

Miss Hyslop has been taking a special course in Needlework at Battersea; it was nice that she was able to visit us in March She is to have a term at home until January.

Miss Jones left us in July to take up work in South Africa.

(S. Michael's School, Bloemfontein).

Mrs. Muddell (Miss Hammond) is finding life very interesting in South America.

Miss Rosedale is teaching at the Perse School, Cambridge.

Miss Stevens-Guille is still in Oxford, at the Delegacy for the Training of Teachers. She has been to see us twice.

Miss Symonds has a post in a preparatory school, Bredenbury Court, Bromyard, a lovely place.

Miss Thompson sounds very busy in her work at S. Catharine's School, Bramley.

Miss Williams has been to stay with us twice; she is still keeping house for her Father.

Miss Wilmott writes very happily from her work at Princess Helena College, Ealing.

BIRTHS. Wilson.—On April 22nd, 1927 at Farnboro', the wife of Captain C. A. Wilson (Daphne Baines) of a daughter.

(Jean Mary) Fairbairn. On July 2nd, 1927, at 150, Orchard Street, Watertown, Mass. U.S.A., the wife of William A. Fairbairn (Christine Croft) of a daughter (Patricia Doreen).

Blaxter. On July llth, 1927, at 144, Cromwell Road, S.W. 7., the wife of Kenneth Blaxter (Janet Hollis) of a daughter. (Elizabeth Denzil) Babington.—On July 15th, 1927, at Nork Parsonage, Banstead, to Ruth (nee Montgomery) wife of the Rev. R. H. Babington a son. (Richard Andrew).

MARRIAGES. Wallis—Wilson. On September 1st, 1926, at Charlton Musgrove Church, by the Rev. Dr. Pearce, Master of Corpus Christi College, Aidan Arnold, son of the late Arnold Wallis. Fellow and Bursar of Corpus College, and of Mrs. Arnold Wallis, to Joan Musgrave Middleton, eldest daughter of the Rev. E. C. Wilson, Rector of Charlton Musgrove, and Mrs. Wilson.

Hibberd—Miflin. On May llth, 1927, at All Saints' Church, Wootton Bassett, by the Rev. S. J. Hersee (Vicar) Geoffrey only son of Mr. and Mrs. Hibberd, to Gladys Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs W. B. Miflin of Lyneham,

28

Scott—Parker. On August 3rd, 1927, at St. Mary's Church, Bitton, near Bristol, by the Rev. C. H. Young, late Rector of Northstoke, Somerset, assisted by the Rev. F. H. W. Taylor, Vicar of Bitton, Thomas Avison Round, son of Dr. T. W. Scott, and Mrs. Scott, of Wincomblee, Southbourne, Hants, to Elinor Margery, daughter of J. S. Parker, Esq., O.B.E., and Mrs. Parker, of Upton, Cheyney, Bitton, and granddaughter of the Rt. Hon. Sir Arthur M. Channel!.

Green—Skyrme. On August 24th 1927, Francis Mortimer, elder son of Colonel and Mrs. C. M. Green, of Glenshee Lodge, Guildford, to Barbara Catherine Elcho, only daughter of the Rev. F. E. and Mrs. Skyrme of the Vicarage, Winterbourne Earls, Salisbury.

Hodgkinson—Hutchinson. On July 20th, 1927, at S. Bartholomew's, Haslemere, Robert John, son of Mr. and Mrs. F. Hodgkinson of Uppingham, to Judith Barlow, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. J. Hutchinson of Haslemere.

R.I.P. During the year we have lost two friends of the school. On December 8th, 1926, after a very long illness, Doreen Gainey, passed to her rest. Those who had been privileged to join her millinery classes must have been struck by the rare beauty of her character, and we are indeed grateful for having been allowed to know her.

On February 25th, Francis Newbury died very suddenly at his home in Castle Street, at the age of 62. Our hearts went out to poor Mrs. Newbury in her terrible shock and loss.

Newbury was known to many generations of S. Mary's girls during the fifteen years he worked at the school, and and they always knew that in him they had a friend.

Addresses of Girls leaving School 1926—1927.

Y. M' Bartlett } Ment ° ne . Kustington, Sussex.

J. Beckett, The Old Vicarage, Wrotham, Kent E. M. M Bodinnar, Old Palace, Chippenham.

A. E. Bradford. Riseholme, Cuckfield, Sussex.

B. A. Burke, Stoney Cockbury. Winchcombe. Glos.

A. M. Butler, Nuthills, Sandy Lane, Chippenham.

C. M. N. Cobb. 5b, Holmesdale Gardens, Hastings. Sussex

29 L. D. Emerson, Camp 5, Perham Down, Ludgershall, Wilts.

S LerFerguson }Traliga'e1' Whitebrook, Chepstow, Mon. M. O Hill. Manor House, S. Nicholas. Cardiff.

J. Joscelyne, 3, S Leonards Road, W. Ealing. W. 3. " Please forward."

A. M. C Le Mesurier, Fenwick Cottage, Emsworth, Hants.

D W. Murrell, Littlecroft, Orpington. Kent.

G. M. Turner, Box 81, Station H., Montreal, P. Q

Changes of Address.

M I. Ball (Jenkins) VilliersRoad, Walmer, Port Elizabeth. Cape Colony.

D. Capewell (Clayton), The Haven, Hursley Road, Chandlersford. Hants.

D. & M. Crokat, Kirkdale, Wembdon, Bridgwater. Somerset.

M. Eraser, Overdale, Richmond Hill, Bath.

F M. Groves (Farnfield), Wheatley Vicarage. Oxford.

H M. Hopkins, 1 whitton House, Crawley, Sussex.

M F. Hopkins, j M A. Hulbert. 7, Gotham Grove, Bristol.

J. Sorsbie, Swainswick Rectory. Bath.

D. M. Taylor. Hilary House, Storey's Way. Cambridge M. Vischer, The Vicarage, Appledore, Ashford, Kent.

J. Williams, Oakbarn, Shirley Avenue, Southampton.

School List, July, 1927.

FORM VI. E. C. A F A.

M. M. Bodinnar M. N. Cobb M. C. Le Mesurier M. Bartlett E. Bradford

1915 3 1921 2 1921 3 1920 2 1923 3 FORM

M. E. Thynne I. M, Martineau G. M. Turner M. P Tallents I. M, Rawlins M. E. Barton-Wright

1924 1 1926 3 1926 1 1926 3 1920 1 1925 3

J. C. Inder B. M. Thompson J M. Cole D J Jackson D. H. Dillon-Trenchard E. A. Westaway J L Suffrin M. V. Cole

FORM 1924 3 1923 3 1916 3 1623 3 1923 3 1923 3 1924 3 1925 l

A. J. R. A.

A. Le Mesurier Ferguson M. Buck Durst

Va.

J. Beckett G. M. Dixon D. W. Murrell B. C. Lacon J. R Young •

1923 1916 1924 1923 1925

3 2 3 3 3

1926 1922 1925 1925 1925 1925 1926

2 3 3 3 2 2 3

•

Vb. G M. Ivamy S. E. Tench M. Durst M. F. Hort B. M. Gardiner D. D. D. Mallock R. M. K. Moilliet

30 REMOVE. G. F. Fleetwood-Jones E M. K. Betty P. Marchant E. C. Hindley

H. Bartrum Y. M. Bartlett M. W. A. Price V. D. Burke V. M. Briscoe

1924 3 1920 2 1923 3 1924 3 1925 1

P. A. Lacon J. M. Bridgman G. E. Gee N. M. Williams N. M Cole D. M. Osman-Jones M. B. Butler E. A. Gowers C. M. Young

UPPER IV. 1923 3 E. J. Adnitt 1924 3 E. K. K. Betty 1917 2 M. W. Goodden 1925 3 G. M. Kirby 1918 3 B. J. Pritchett 1922 3 K. M. Brichta 1924 3 C. A. Church 1925 1 M. Farrington 1925 3 G. M. Shipley

A. B. Briscoe P. L. Dixon E. D. B. Champain S. L. Ferguson C. M. Gale M. R. Heath P. F. Aldrick P J. Young F. C. Roynon E J Hawkins

LOWER 1925 l 1919 2 1925 2 1923 2 1923 3 19172 1918 2 1920 3 1921 3 1925 3

M. N. E. Mansergh M. J. Gale W. D. Parry E. F. Gunning A. N. C. Churchill A. B. M. Westaway

FORM 1926 1 1923 3 1919 2 1922 2 1922 2 1924 3

K. M. Gough K. M. Trow C. D M. Churchill M. E. Aldrick M. C. Long G. M. Wheeler

1926 1 1926 3 1927 1 1927 1

1926 3 1926 3 1926 3 1926 3 19263 1927 l 1927 l 1927 1 1927 2

IV. R. E. R. Wasley M. M. L. Welch C. M. Allen A. D. Hill C. Johnson M. Ogle M. E. V. Tallents L. M. Le C. Balleine R. Jenner

1926 l 1926 2 1925 1 1926 3 1926 3 1926 3 1927 l 1927 l 1927 2

HI. W. Osman-Jones M. I. Wilkie A. A. McClintock S. M. Lunt B. R Johnson

FORM II. AND I. 1922 3 R. J Maggs 1922 3 G. M. Henly 1923 2 M. A. R. Apps 1923 3 E. Aldrick 1925 3 I. Gough 19263

1923 3 1926 3 1926 3 1927 2 1927 2

1926 3 1926 3 1927 1 1925 3 1925 3

81 The Staff.—July,

1927.

RESIDENT Miss ALEXANDER, (Senior Mistress) French.

Miss GROVER, Science. Gardening, Geography.

Miss DAMANT, Matron.

Miss JENNINGS, Music.

Miss GOODRICH, Games, Gymnastics, Dancing Miss LYS, Secretary.

Miss MONICA JONES, Classics and English.

Miss SECRETAN, History and French.

Miss ADAM, Domestic Science.

Miss DUNCAN, Classics.

Miss HEDONE JONES, Music.

Miss JAMES, Mathematics.

Miss LANG, English.

SISTER IRVINE. NON-RESIDENT — THE REV. A. B. BROWNE, Divinity.

MR. POLLEIN. Pianoforte, Organ.

Miss POUND, Pianoforte.

MRS. HILL, Violin.

MR. HILL, 'Cello.

MRS. WATLING, Italian.

Miss EVANS, Art. MR CULLEY, Carpentry.

School Calendar.

1926.

Sept. 28.—Beginning of Term. ., 29.—Whole school to watch a cricket match, Mr. A. Sandham's XI v. Calne and District.

Oct. 6.—Address in Chapel. The Kev. A. B. Browne on S. Francis of Assisi. ,, 8.—Reading of " The Merchant of Venice " by Calne Players. .. 14.—Entertainment and dinner for the men who had worked on the new building ,, 19.—Health Festival. Service and Address by Canon Veazey. ,. 21.—Lecture on the " Meaning of Art " by Miss Rintoul. ,, 23—Lacrosse Match v. Clifton Lading. School won 14—1. ., ,, Lecture ou " S. Francis and his time" by the Archdeacon. ,, 27.—Representatives went to London for the Annual Meeting of the U.G S.

32 Oct. 30.—Party to Bristol for the Opera.

Nov. 6.—Party to Bath for Jean Stirling McKiuley Kecital. ,, 8.—Half-term. ,, 9.—Mayor's Day. Party to Installation Ceremony in Town Hall. ,, 11.—Armistice Day. Two Minutes' Silence. „ 15.—Piano Kecital by Miss Fanny D;ivies. ,, 16.—Inspection of Music by Miss 1'aiiny Davies. ,, 20.—Maidless Day „ ,, —Lecture on " The Reformation " by the Archdeacon. „ 27.—Lacrosse Match v. Godolphin 2nd XII. School beaten 1--25. „ 29.—Sale in the Town Hall in connection with the Call of the World.

Dec. 3.—Prize Giving. ,, ,, —Lecture on " Canada " by Miss Faithful. ,, 5.—Confirmation in the Parish Church. ,, 6.—Concert by the Wayfaring Trio. „ 7.—"The Golden Legend " by the Calne Musical Society in the Cinema. ., 11.—2nd Net Ball team v. Tytherton. School won 27—12. „ 13.—School Certificate Examination. ,. 17-—Concert of Haydn's Music. ,, 18.—Concert by the Musical Society. ,, 20.—Competition for Shakespeare Cup. Mark Heading. Tea and Speeches.

1927.

Jan. 18.—Beginning of term.

Feb. 8.—Lecture on " China " by Mrs. Carr. ., 12.—2nd Net Ball match v. Trowbridge High School 1st VII. School won 31—3. „ „ —Lecture on History of Dancing by Helen Tench. ,, 14. —Piano Recital by Miss Molly Ricliett. ,, 21.—Lecture on l: Armenia" by Mr. Burtt. „ 23.—Net Ball match v. Staff. Staff won 18—15. „ 26.—Company Entertainment—" The Rose and the King " produced by Moberly and Osmund. ,, 28.—Half-term ,, .,—Company Entertainment—"Robin Hood" produced by Grossteste and Poore.

Mar. 1. —" The Creation " by the Calne Musical Society in the Parish Church. „ 11.—Party to Bath for Leuer Quartet Concert. ,, 12.—Net Ball Cup Match v. Royal School. School beaten. ,, 14.—Party to Lecture in Cinema by Captain Holt on the National Life Boat Institution.

33

Mar. 17.—Lecture on " The Eclipse " by Miss Proctor. ,, 21.—League of Nations Union. Lecture by the Rev. A, B. Browne, QU " The present situation in China." ,, 22.—Lacrosse Match v. Wilts Ladies. School won. „ 23.—" Edmund Rich " Entertainment. ,, ,, —Address in Chapel. Miss H. L. Powell. ,, 25.—Address in Chapel. The Rev. W. F. Wood. ., 26.—Expedition to White Horse. „ 27. Concert by the Wessex Quartet. .. 31.—Presentation to the Archdeacon.

April 1.—Form Drill Competition. Cup won by Form VI. ,, 2.—Concert of Beethoven's music. ,, 3.—Organ Recital by Mr. Pullein. „ 4.—Mark Reading, May 5.—Beginning of term. „ 7.—Picnics. ,. 11.—League of Nations' Union. Children's Meeting in the Cinema. Speaker, Mr. Whelen. „ 14.—Picnic to Golf Links. ., 19.—Drill Competition v. Godolphin School. School won. .. 21.—Cricket Match v. Miss Gillett'sXI. School won. .. 24.—Empire Day Celebrations. ,, 26.—Ascension Day. Expedition to Sandy Lane. Induction of Canon Coulter. „ 27.—Address on the situation in China by Dr. Harold Balme. ,, 28.—" Much Ado " by the Ben Greet Players in the garden. ,, 31.—Song Recital by Miss Sybil Cropper.

June 4.—Picnics ,, 11 —Cricket Match v. Royal School, Bath. School won. ,, 18—Half-term. ,, 20.—Expedition to Bratton and Ediugton. ,, 30.—Tennis Match v. Calue Ladies. Victory for Calue Ladies.

July 7. — Whole holiday won by C. Cobb and A. Le Mesurier. Expedition to Salisbury. .. 10. - Address in Chapei. Archdeacon Lunt. „ 16 — ' . ' Robin Hood."

18.20.—Purcell Concert. ,,—Final Form Tennis Matches. ,, —Singles Championship Finals, won by R. Buck.

23.—Cricket Match v. Calne Secondary School Boys XI. Victory for Secondary School ,. —Miss Alexander's picnic for Leaving VI Form.

25. — Miss Matthew's supper party for Leaving VI Form.

26.—Mark Heading.

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Prize Day, 1926.

Prize Day was held on Friday, December 3rd, and this year we welcomed Miss Faithfull who came to give away our prizes. The main feature of the Prize Giving this year was the fact that it was the last over which Archdeacon Bodington will preside. Though we hope in the future to see him at our school functions it will no longer be in his capacity as Vicar of Calne. We were very grateful to the Mayor for putting into words some of our feelings at our loss: he also read a letter to the same effect from Mr. Dunne who was unable to be present.

Miss Matthews, in presenting her report, referred to the approaching departure of the Archdeacon and all that he had done for us. She also paid a special tribute to Mr. Pullein on completing his forty years service on our staff.

Miss FaithfulPs address was delightful; we wish we could give a verbatim report, but are glad to give the account of her speech as reported in " The Wiltshire Gazette":— Miss Faithfull referred to the difficulty of finding anything new to say at a prize-giving, but addressing herself to the prize winners said she felt the prizes at the school were given most wisely. She was very glad they were won for a certain percentage of marks and not for competition. They did not want in a school to have the spirit of competition, but they wanted every girl to have a reasonable ambition, and to do the very best she possibly could. At the same time, if a girl became very ambitious about her prizes she was apt to forget there were some things very much more important than mere prizes, and apt to forget there were some prizes better worth winning than them. She had known girls in the past who had been so keen on prizes and upon their own promotion in the school, and upon other self-satisfying ideas, that they never had the time to do any of the things that really made a girl immensely valuable in her school with her companions, teachers, and school in general. She was very sorry indeed for any girl who carried off prize after prize on speech day and came to the end of her career and left school, who had so far played for herself, worked for herself, and lived for herself that she left no blank behind her. No one was specially sorry that she left; nobody had ever had help from her; she had not been one who had thrown herself into the real life of the school, helping

35

in its activities, or even sacrificing her own work for the sake of doing something for the school and the enterprise of the school. It was a finer thing to help their school than to help themselves; and it was better to be proud of their school than to be proud of their own achievements.

She was certain there were many girls who did not win prizes who have made a mark in the school which could not possibly be forgotten, and whose names were written in the hearts of not only their companions but the headmistress and the staff. Miss Faithfull likened a school to a great co-operative society with its various"departments."

One of them was the parents, who supplied the material for the school, and they knew whether it was good material they were sending or not; whether it had to be altered a great deal before it was satisfactory material. She spoke of the part parents had in a school, and how necessary their co-operation was, particularly in the general interest of the school, if it was to be successful; and warned them that it was not desirable to give girls too much to do.

Some parents did not like to think their children had not learned music, and drawing and sewing; and they.liked them to do a little domestic science. Then they wondered why their girls were perhaps a little dull! They expected all those things to be done at the school, and that their girls would be alert; but how could they be if they did not have time to think ? The main business of the staff was not to teach too much. The main business of every school was to send out children not necessarily greatly informed on matters such as whether they had covered a special period of history, whether they knew a certain amount of science, or whether they had read a certain amount of poetry. What did matter was that they should be sent out with an aptitude to go on learning something of the many things they had been taught in school. As far as school was concerned, she believed the great thing that should be done was to to teach the children how to learn and to like learning. It was not the amount of ground that was covered, but the creation of aptitude.

There was no such a thing as compulsory education ; i e , learning. They could take a horse to water but they could not make it drink ; and not one of them could be made to learn The question was how were they being inspired with the desire to learn ; was there an aptitude for learning. Girls must be willing to be left very much on their own resources, and must not expect, as sometimes they did, that they were going to sit like little birds with

36

open mouths and have things poured into them : that was not education.

She enlarged upon the necessity of resource and initiative on the part of the pupil, and said she would like all the girls to look upon their school life now and afterwards as one great magnificent adventure; an adventure of great difficulty, for which they were preparing themselves, which needed all their strength, intelligence and spirit—a great intellectual adventure. The world wanted thought; it wanted their mind even more than their bodies. It wanted the best they could give, and every hour of the time they were spending at the school was only going to prepare them for that great intellectual adventure of life afterwards. What they were going to do for themselves, their country and the world in general for the service of men and God was going to depend very largely upon how they were using those years at the school to give themselves minds that could be used in the bigger service outside. Sometimes as one looked round the world, there seemed to be such a number of girls, strong and healthy young people, who were choosing not to do anything to justify their existence.

That could not be if they went from that school. They had got to think there what the future was to be for them, and to try and find whether the world needed them and what bit of work they could do in it, and they must justify the hopes not only of their parents, but teachers and.companions, and develop the powers they possessed."

After tea the visitors were entertained by a short demonstration of dancing. Miss Goodrich had worked hard, and the result was very satisfactory; the programme was as follows -.— 1. Trepak.

Russian Solo Dance.

Casse Noisette Tschaikoivsky

2. Dutch Dance.

3. Polish Dance for Three.

Frederick Mullen

4. Doll Dance.

5.

Hungarian Dance for Eight.

lirahnis

6. Hunting Jig. 7. Cymbal Dance for Three-" Idyll " 8.

The Opening Lily.

9. Greek Dance of " Joy and Sorrow."

Symphony in D Minor Old English Dance

lilgur Mac Do-well Arthur Somerville Coiueii

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The Prize List was as follows:— FORM VI. HEAD OF THE SCHOOL, R F. Evans (given by the Ven. Archdeacon of Wilts) DIVINITY, (given by His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury) M. O. Hill SCIENCE, (given by Mrs. Dunne) M. O. Hill HISTORY, A. Wood (given by Mrs. Dudley Matthews) A. M. C. Le Mesurier (given by Miss Symonds) FRENCH, R. F. Evans (given by Mr. Dunne) CARPENTRY, R. E. Price (given by Mr. Culley) LOWER VI BOOK-KEEPING, A. E. Bradford (given by Mr. and Mrs. Bateman) UPPER V. FORM PRIZE, A. A. Le Mesurier (given by Miss Murray) GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, A. A. Le Mesurier (given by the Head Mistress) A. M. Butler V. PARALLEL. DOMESTIC SUBJECTS HOLIDAY WORK, A. M. Butler (given by Mr. Aldrick) J. M. Cole LOWER V. FORM PRIZES, J. L. Suffrin (given by the Mayor of Calne) J. L. Suffrin GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, HISTORY. D. J. Jackson (given by the Head Mistress) B. C. Lacon HOLIDAY WORK FORM IV. FORM PRIZES, B M. Gardiner (given by Mr. Norris) D. D. D. Mallock (given by Mrs, Dunnes M. B. Butler UPPER III. FORM PRIZES. N. M. Cole P. L. Dixon D. M. O. Jones P. J. Young C. M. Young P. L. Dixon HOLIDAY WORK E. A. Cowers C M. Allen LOWER III. FORM PRIZES, A. N. C. Churchill A. M. C. Westaway CARPENTRY A. M. C. Westaway FORM II. READING PRIZE C. D. M. Churchill MUSIC—PIANO (given by Miss Fanny Davies) (given by Mr. Pullein) (given by Miss Jennings)

B. M. Thompson B. C. Lacon D. J, Jackson J. Collard

88 VIOLIN—Senior (given by Miss Alexander) Junior (given by Mrs. H G. Harris) NEEDLEWORK (given by Mrs. J. M Harris) NATURE CLUB 'given by Miss Groverj (given by Mrs. Rowland Tench) A. A. FRANCES GABRIEL SCHOLARS— Boarders—A. A. Le Mesurier, J. L. Suffrin.

Day Girls—J. M Cole, P. J. Young

H. Bartrum P. J Young G. M. Dixon A. Durst Le Mesurier

Examinations, 1926—1927.

Open Scholarship (History) Westfield College, £40 for three years— A. M. C. Le Mesurier Vacancy Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford—C. M. N. Cobb OXFORD HIGHER LOCAL. December, 1926—French: F. M. Bartlett, M. O. Hill English : M. O. Hill July, 1927—English: F. M. Bartlett.

M. P. Tallents.

CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL CERTIFICATE. December. 1926—R. M. Buck B. A. Burke A. Durst L. D. Emerson J. F. Joscelyne M. E. Thynne G. M. Turner INSTITUTE OF HYGIENE July, 1927-Certificates. J. Beckett I. M. Rawlins NATIONAL COUNCIL OF DOMESTIC STUDIES. Junior Housecraft Certificate — W. Murrell Class I. M. Barton-Wright Class II. J. Beckett G. Dixon J. Ferguson ,, M. Rawlins ,, "OLD GIRLS." E. Kitson. English Tripos. Class II. N. K. Samways. Certificate of Aural Training R.A M. M. Hiscock. Diploma Bedford Physical Training College. Diploma of the Incorporated Society Trained Masseuses.

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Improvements of the Autumn Term, 1926.

Towards the end of the Summer Term the school was invaded by armies of men who deposited not only heaps of mortar, bricks and stones outside, but coils of wire inside. Even before we went home the new walls of the Chapel were already four feet high and the installation of electric wiring was almost complete, but when we returned after the holidays, the school was transformed.

Seriously, the improvements are remarkable.

The oriel window greatly improves the hitherto blank wall at the end of the Chapel, while inside, though the walls are temporarily canvas-covered, the additional length makes it more imposing. Finally there is to be not only oak-panelling but also a more worthy altar and new doors and hangings ; but even without those accessories it is a great gain to have the whole School at prayers together.

Old Wordsworth dormitory held four people; new Wordsworth twelve, and though Murray itself remains the same, four favoured people now occupy the new partitioned cubicles in the extension.

It is no longer necessary to invade the kitchen for matches, and candles have become almost extinct, for there is always a switch at hand. We all feel so grateful to Mr. Bateman and the men who have worked so hard for us, and to show some part of our gratitude we gave them a short entertainment on October 14th. A presentation was made, Mr. Bateman being given a dinner napkin ring for his baby daughter, and Mr. Syms, the foreman, a Dunhill pipe.

The men seemed to appreciate our efforts to amuse them, enjoyed their dinner, and ended up by singing lustily in the Chapel they had built. A great surprise awaited us later in the term when they presented each prefect with a copy of Younghusband's " Mount Everest," much too beautiful a present in return for our little entertainment. We were most grateful.

C. Cobb.

M. O Hill.

Half Term.

November 6—9, 1926.

When a list went up on the board of the fortunate people who were to go to Bath to hear Jean Sterling Mackinlay, the " stay at homes " had a mingled feeling

40

of disappointment and excitement, as to what was in store for them. But when mysterious notes began to circulate with the motto " silence is golden " inside them, the fortunate ones found it their turn to feel '' out of it."

Naturally everyone hoped it would be fine, but the rain persisted the whole day long. The fortunate ones arrived at Bath at about 2 p.m. and so found time to look at the Abbey before going to the Pump Room. Having heard so much about Jean Sterling Mackinlay their anticipations were pleasantly realized. Her choice of songs was delightful and she sang them so naturally; many of them were familiar, being folk songs.

On arriving back they heard that the " stay at homes " had also been enjoying themselves. They had receiyed invitations in pairs to come dressed as various fiction characters such as " Robin Hood" and " The Scarlet Pimpernel." Their hosts were Bluebeard and Fatima whose palace was in Gabriel.

After tea they played games in the hall, followed by a search for Fatima. Then they played a thrilling game of Sardines in the dark which ended the delightful party.

In the evening Miss Gates gave a dinner party to S, Bridget's old and new ; games were again played all over the house, and thus ended the Saturday of half-term.

Much to our disappointment Monday proved to be a wet day too, so we had to give up any idea of walks to Bishop's Cannings or Avebury. Notwithstanding the weather we managed to have a very good time. It was agreed that the school should divide up in order to entertain each other; one half in the morning and the other in the afternoon. The Staff also divided up to help us In the morning we had a mock trial; in which Miss Jennings (under the assumed name of Miss Jazzer) was tried for stealing journey money! She was pronounced guilty and the sentence given for her by the Judge (Miss Rosedale) was that she should pay journey fares for the whole school for a year.

In the afternoon some of us went to Bath, there we saw the Abbey and Roman Baths, and heard part of a concert in the Pump Room.

Meanwhile, at School, " Wembley" was being carried on in the hall Among the many amusements were Bull Fights, Waterchutes, and a fight between " Dempsey" and "Tunney." After all these excitements, we had a Jazz Band and danced.

In spite of the weather being so unkind to us, we had one of the best half-terms we have known.

Lower V.

41

Half Term.

July 18—20th, 1927.

Everything except the weather was perfect as usual this half-term, and what is a little rain if one is determined not to mind it ? True, on Saturday it rained so much that out of doors was impossible, but that didn't seem to matter much. In the afternoon the school did what it liked, which seemed to mean for the majority community singing in batches round every available piano. In the evening Miss Goodrich and Miss Jennings assisted the VI form to give a musical entertainment to the school.

After an Italian Opera of the most lurid type we " all went to Mary's house " and there, very largely owing to Miss Goodrich's and Miss Jennings' masterly interpretation of Mr. Meekins and Miss Simpkins, " we had a real good time."

Sunday was another wet day, but that never matters to anyone, and on Monday the clerk of the weather made a great effort for our special benefit. The day began with an hour's " brighter cricket" before breakfast and in brilliant sunshine. The game started with a faithful few but when stumps were drawn every place on the field was at least trebly filled. Games and sunshine alike continued after breakfast till about mid-day, when the cars came to take us to Bratton and Edington, and oh!, the joy of driving in dark red luxurious char-a-bancs, instead of our old friend, or rather enemy, the side-ways brake.

Bratton village is a perfectly delightful place, straggling at the foot of the Wiltshire downs. After fortifying ourselves with lunch we climbed to the top of the said downs and were rewarded by a glorious view.

Miss Matthews also took some of us into the curiously isolated little Church, where the yicar was kind enough to stay and show us the many points of interest. After this Miss Matthews had to go home, to our great disappointment, but we went on to Edington, a similar village about three miles away. Here we had tea in the Monastery Gardens where though no ruins, except the marvellously thick and high walls were to be seen—there was a lake and the most thrilling swings. The Vicar was so kind as to give some of his time to showing us the Church, which is all fourteenth-century work, and most remarkably fine for so small a village, with some interesting tombs in excellent preservation. At about 6

42

o'clock we had to pack unwillingly into our cars, although the drive home by a different route was simply glorious.

We arrived back in that satisfactory state of fatigue which comes after perfect enjoyment, such as Miss Matthews and the Staff always give us in arranging our half-term holidays.

Form VI.

Ascension Day. Who does not like " odd " days at school ? Certainly there was little of the usual routine about this glorious Ascension Day. Though there had been threatenings of thunder, all was well with the weather, and everything combined to make a perfect day. Morning lesson time was occupied with a General Knowledge paper - for some perhaps a change for the worse—and a little of the inevitable "making up prep"! Then after dinner we started off for Sandy Lane, some in cars with the tea and some on foot. After what was for most of us a very hot and jolly walk, we partook of tea in recumbent positions, and the delights of many and various buns out of washing baskets. It was a great tribute to Miss Damant's masterly powers of catering that even the " four " which arrived late found something to quiet the pangs of hunger. Rounders followed tea, and then we had to bid farewell to Sandy Lane for another year. Our one regret was that Miss Matthews was not with us, and we all hope most heartily that by her kindness we shall be able to spend many more Ascension Days there with her.

Yet, for some of us at least this was not the only side of the holiday, which ended, as it had begun, on the note of worship and praise. For those of the school who are confirmed had the great privilege of attending the service of Archdeacon Coulter's Induction, conducted by the Bishop of Salisbury. It was a wonderful service, taken by a most wonderful man, and must surely have been an inspiring opening for our Vicar in his new work. The Parish and the School are opening with him, as the Bishop said, a new period in our history. We as well as he are responsible for making it a success Anne Le Mesurier.

43

The Visit to Salisbury.

July 7th, 1927.

We are gradually getting accustomed to not seeing t Archdeacon Bodington in Calne, but we were delighted when Miss Matthews took seventeen of us to Salisbury to visit him in his new house. The weather was propitious and we had a lovely time. The Archdeacon and Mrs. Bodington were so kind and made us feel at home immediately. Some of us went to evensong in the Cathedral and sat in the choir-stalls. We felt most exalted but somewhat conspicuous! The singing was beautiful and we enjoyed hearing the Archdeacon read the lesson again.

After the service the Archdeacon shewed us round the Cathedral and we agreed that it was one of the most perfect buildings we had ever seen. We then went back to the house for a sumptuous tea and to inspect the garden and the new home. When we had seen all that there was to be seen we went back to the Cathedral and, as a great favour were allowed to walk round the triforium.

Most of us liked being eighty feet above the ground, but some of us wished there had been rails all the way round !

W^hen we had all reached terra firma safely, we went to see the Cathedral Library, where there are several interesting manuscripts and illuminated breviaries.

"We were all sorry to leave and pack ourselves into the char-a-banc again. It is so nice to feel that the Archdeacon has not forgotten us in any way and that we are still " the apple of his eye."

C. Cobb.

Form Picnics.

Once more the " Powers that be" have thought of one more surprise that forwards the uniqueness of the school; the summer Thursday has now a call upon it, even as the winter Thursday has hobbies but in the summer the call is to picnics.

Each form is allowed two picnics a term, one walking, and the other driving. The school time table has been altered so that we finish all our work before tea and are free from 5.30 until Chapel time. Everyone is delighted with the idea, and each form looks forward to their particular Thursday ; even those who are left behind are not

44

forgotten as Pork Pies play the most important part in supper.

Castle Coombe and Savernake Forest seem the most favourite places to picnic in.

The Edmund Rich girls found time to join their forms for the picnics, which was both nice because the forms were complete in their numbers, and also was helpful to the life of the school.

E. Bodinnar. " Much Ado About Nothing."

May 28th, 1927.

After the visit of The Ben Greet Players it is almost impossible not to feel that after all " Much Ado About Nothing" is the best Shakespearian comedy. If you want melodrama, here is a villain of surpassing villainy, weaving a plot of incredible cruelty ; if you want farce, Dogberry and his satellites are at your service, and, above all, if you want youth and wit and gracious humour here are Beatrice and Benedict, most gay, most lovable of all those merry lovers who flit through the comedies. This variety needs good interpretation and there can be no doubt that the Ben Greet Company made the utmost of every character and of every word. Beatrice and Benedict jested and laughed until a threatened tragedy drove them into manhood and womanhood ; Dogberry (played by Ben Greet himself) ruled his little world with sublime futility; Claudio alternately rhapsodised and raged with all the weakness of a peevish boy ; Don Pedro laughingly arranged the future of his friends, so nearly jeopardised by the snarling villainy of his half-brother.

The play seemed so real that it was difficult to realise that the actors had any indentity apart from their roles, until they beat our 1st XI most effectually in the evening.

We all enjoyed every moment of their visit and " If only they could come again " was heard on every side. Next year will, we hope, bring them but alas ! some of us who enjoyed it most will not be here.

Cicely Cobb.

45

The Shakespeare Cup.

December 20th, 1926.

We were reminded this year of the first competition for the Shakespeare Cup, which was held in 1921. For in 1926 as in that year, the Cup was won by Form VI, and for the same production " King.5 Lear" Act 1.

There was no doubt in the minds of the Judges this year that form VI gave the most finished performance, the grouping was excellent, and was helped by great dignity and stillness. Lear (C. Cobb) himself was not so convincing as the Lear of D. Urwick, which we remember in 1921, he was too virile to begin with, notfmoqdy enough, and the climax would have been more effective if more contrast had been shewn. Kent and the sisters were good, France very good and appealing, but the outstanding feature was the Cordelia of F. Bartlett, who gave a beautiful rendering. The VI (Actor Manager Alice Le Mesurier) thoroughly deserved the Cup for a really fine and moving performance.

The second place was won by forms V Parallel and Remove. Their choice, several scenes from Coriolanus, was most difficult to produce well; it was so long,there was so little action. They are much to be congratulated therefore on the fact that they kept up the spirit the whole way through, their grouping and the crowd was very good. The whole production had been very well staged.

Y. Bartlett as Sicinius, D. Burke as Aufidius both deserve special mention, while J. Beckett as Coriolanus was convincing, deliberate and clear throughout, with very good attitudes.

The Upper V choose scenes from Cymbeline, and won third place. Their work was spoilt by the fact that they were not really audible. They won their place by their restraint, especially in the dirge, and by the general intelligence behind the work, and their good grouping.

The remaining performances reached a lower level.

The Lower V spoilt their scenes from " As You Like It " by bad casting, lack of finish, and bad grouping. However they were commendably audible.

The Lower IV showed great spirit in their production of scenes from " Romeo and Juliet," everything went with a swing and there were no hitches. But Juliet was frequently hidden from the audience, and she and Romeo were strangely inaudible ! Tybalt (C. Johnson) and Capulet (D. Champain) stood out as being good and very audible.

46

The Upper IV spoilt their scenes from " Twelfth Night" by very poor casting. Their production was much too fast, almost breathless, and their grouping was poor.

E.M.M. E.M.A. H.M. Music. 1926—1927.

CHRISTMAS TERM. This year we have been extremely fortunate in having so many concerts and recitals.

In the Christmas Term the first concert was at halfterm when Jean Sterling McKinlay visited Bath and some of us had the good fortune to hear her singing the delightful folk songs for which she is so famous.

By far the most important event of the year was the visit of Miss Fanny Davis. We always wish that her visits were longer, but she is only able to give us two days as she is so busy. On the evening of her arrival she gave us a pianoforte recital on her famous Steinway Grand. Her programme dealt with various composers, arranged in their periods.

While describing her delightful recital one is liable to forget the horrors of the day after, though when the time came they were far from what we anticipated. The whole morning was taken up with playing to her. Each of us played two pieces and she awarded a prize to the girl whom she considered the best for her age.

Towards the middle of the term about ten of us went to Bristol to the Opera. It is a long time since any of us have been so far away for a concert, but we very much hope to do so again. We heard Vaughan-Williams' " Shepherds of the Delectable Mountains," and his ballet " Old King Cole," both of which he conducted himself.

Opinions were divided as to which was the better, which proves that they were equally attractive. We also heard Purcell's Dido and Aeneas, which was conducted by Mr. Adrian Boult, and which we enjoyed immensely, especially the witches' scene.

On December 8th the Calne Choral Society gave a performance of Sullivan's " Golden Legend " which was admirably rendered, and much enjoyed by us all. At the end of the concert Archdeacon Bodington presented Mr. Pullein with a gift of 200 guineas and a book containing the names of the donors, as a token of gratitude for his

47

forty years' work in Calne.

Towards the end of the term, the Wayfarers' Trio gave us another of their delightful concerts which we appreciate so much. The only fault we have to find with them is that they never stay long enough.

Every term we give a concert of the works of one particular musician, and this term we studied the works of Haydn.

EASTER TERM. The first concert was in February, when we were visited by Miss Molly Rickett, a protegee of Miss Fanny Dayies. She gave a pianoforte recital in the School Hall which we much enjoyed.

On March 1 st we went to a performance of the " Creation" by the Calne Choral Society held in the Church. The solo parts were taken by Miss Hilda Blake, Mr. Percy Underwood and Mr. Emlyn Bebb, who sang for the Society last year.

Later in March some of us went to Bath to hear the famous Lener Quartet, who were at that time playing Beethoven's works in commemoration of his centenary.

We had all heard about the wonderful ensemble of this famous quartet, and were extremely fortunate in hearing them.

This term also we were visited by the Wessex Quartet, one of whose number, Mrs. Hill, has now joined our Musical Staff. Their programme included works of Bach and Mozart and Cesar Franck.

On the last Sunday of term, Mr. Pullein very kindly gave an organ recital to the school in the Church.

The programme was entirely devoted to Beethoven.

This term, with a view to his centenary we studied some of the works of Beethoven of which we gave a concert at the end of the term. At this concert we gave a great farewell clap to Miss Symonds, who is leaving us after more than four years here. She has done a great deal for us, especially in the orchestra, which has often been almost a case of " bricks without straw."

SUMMER TERM. We welcome Miss Hedone Jones, who has taken Miss Symonds' pianoforte pupils, and Mrs. Hill who now teaches violin.

Musical events this term have not been numerous: on May 31st we were glad to welcome once again Miss

48

Sybil Cropper who gave us a song recital. At the end of term we gave a Purcell concert, and were greatly helped by both Mr. and Mrs Hill, who added very much to the concert by their 'cello and violin solos.

On the last Friday of term Mr. Pullein most kindly played on the Church organ to the leaving girls.

To all those who teach us we owe grateful thanks, and also to Miss Alexander and Miss Jennings who have given us " gramaphone concerts " each Sunday evening.

B. C. Lacon.

B. M. Thompson, Inspection of Music by Miss Fanny Davies November 16th, 1926 Miss Davies again reported very favourably on the pianoforte playing.

She writes " I have had great pleasure in listening to the pianoforte pupils of S. Mary's School. It was nice to hear again several whom I well remember as having played to me two years ago, and to note the marked progress in each instance. It goes without saying that the musical training at S. Mary's is very sound, and leads to something because it is founded on a perfectly natural basis, versus forcing for momentary effect. This really fine foundation does not mean merely the A.B.C. and practising scales and studies, but all the interesting little things round one's work Not a single performance was slip-shod, and I heard twenty-five girls play. I congratulate the musical staff on really excellent results."

The following awards were made:— Star to Prize B. M. Thompson Prize B. C Lacon J. Jackson Award of Merit Highly Commended J. M. Bridgman N. M. Cole N. M. Williams Commended E. M. M. Bodinnar H. Bartrum S. L. Ferguson R. E. R Wasley A. B. M. Westaway

49

Lectures 1926—1927.

Lectures this year have been more than usually interesting, although there have been none in the Town Hall. We always love haying Archdeacon Bodington here, and we thoroughly enjoyed his three lectures in the Autumn Term, two on the Reformation and one on the life of S. Francis of Assisi. We miss the Archdeacon very much, too much to say, and we like to remember those lectures. Also during the Autumn Term, Miss Faithfull gave us a most amusing and interesting account of her recent visit to Canada.

This year attention has been focussed on China.

During the Lent Term we had two lectures about conditions, from Mrs. Carr and from Dr. Balme. When Dr. Balme came two years ago, he made things very clear for us, and we were glad to welcome him again and hear more about what is a very difficult question. Another subject of topica-1 interest, the Eclipse, was explained to us

by Miss Proctor, whose lecture was illustrated by beautiful slides. Greek dancing is a subject in which we have all been interested, whether from inclination or not is immaterial. We were therefore especially thrilled by Helen Tench's exposition, which she illustrated by dancing for us. Also during the Lent Term, Mr. Burtt gave us a talk on Armenia.

A. Le Mesurier.

League of Nations' Union.

Calne Branch.

At a meeting of the Union in the school hall on March llth this year Mr Bevil Browne gave a very illuminating address on the present situation in China.

A large number rrom the school was present, and it was very helpful to everyone to have the situation so clearly and confidently explained to us.

The Calne League of Nations' Union branch was again honoured by a visit from Mr. Whelen, the greatest lecturer for the Union on May 11th. A special meeting for the school children of Calne was held, as on the occasion of Mr. Whelen's last visit, in the Cinema during the afternoon. The chair was taken by the head boy of the County School, and Mr. Whelen gave a short and very clear address on the necessity for prohibiting future wars.

At the general meeting in the evening, which a large

50

body from the school attended, the audience was not nearly numerous enough to do justice to Mr. Whelen's interesting address. He spoke especially upon some of the recent work and problems of the League, and described the historic scenes at the inclusion of Germany in the League. Nearly everyone in the school of sixteen joined the Calne Branch of the Union at the close of the meeting.

We very much hope that Mr. Whelen will be able to come to Calne again soon.

A. A. Le Mesurier.

Reading Competition, 1927.

The Competition was held for the fourth time this summer, and it was a disappointment to find so few girls reaching the standard required by the First Class while only two competitors won badges.

This year it was decided that each Company should select eight members (five seniors and three juniors) to read. Those who win a badge score ten points for their Company, those winning a First . Class score four, and those in Class Two score one.

The picture was won by Moberly, who had no one below Class II, and scored a total of 29 points, beating Poore (the runners up) by four. Then came Grosstete 20, Osmund 17, and Edmund Rich 2.

Dr. Ede again very kindly judged those of the seniors who reached Class I, he awarded badges to Rachel Buck and Jean Beckett. " Manners and Morals."

During the past year the committee have met twice, the following representatives have been present at different meetings;— Staff.

Miss Alexander, Miss Symonds, Miss Goodrich, Miss Rosedale, Miss Dainant, Miss James.

VI. E. Bodinnar, C. Cobb, M. Hill, A. Le Mesurier, and the heads of the Companies.

Va. J. Joscelyne, D. Emerson, M. Tallents, W. Murrell.

Vb. J. Inder, J. Jackson, M. Cole, J. Cole.

Remove. H. Bartrum, V. Briscoe, G. F. Jones, P. Marchant.

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IVa.

J. Bridgman, P. Lacon, N. Williams, M. Young.

IVb. B. Briscoe, D. Champain, M. Welch, L. Balleine.

III. E. Mansergh, W Parry, A. McClintock.

Many minor points were raised at the meetings, most of which have been carried into effect, but no really important ideas were suggested except that the Companies should perform more duties in the school, such as rolling the courts and putting out table napkins.

We want to thank Miss Matthews for her able presidency and to let her know that we do appreciate having a share in the government of the school.

E. Bodinnar, (Secretary.)

Company Entertainments.

February 26th and 28th, 1927.

This year the standard reached by the Company entertainments was very high indeed.

Osmund and Moberly gave " The Rose and the Ring." This was a most delightful performance, it went with a swing as though the actors were enjoying every word. F. Bartlett made a delightful Betsinda, and Alice Le Mesurier an inimitable Bulbo, but all did well.

Poore and Grosstete combined, two days later, to give us Alfred Noyes' " Robin Hood." This was a most ambitious performance, and went without a hitch, in spite of our small stage. The scenery and dresses were excellent—so good indeed was the whole production that we decided to produce it as a school play in July.

We are most grateful to all those in the four Companies who put such spirited work into these plays, not least to the "supers" whose parts were as well carried out as those of the principals.

We have never had such successful crowds!

"Robin Hood," by Alfred Noyes.

July 16th and 18th, 1927.

We first became acquainted with " Robin Hood " as a " Company Play." It was a great success, so we decided to share our enjoyment of it with a larger audience.

For three weeks a theatrical atmosphere pervaded the school, Members of the staff passing through the

52 Company Room were startled by such exclamations as " Quickly get thee gone ! " or " Take him away, blind him or what you will! " The carpentry shop became a scene of chaos. At all hours of the day someone was working there. Now it would be industrious individuals spattered with black and silver paint, engaged in the manufacture of murderous looking swords, sharp-pointed spears and wicked little daggers. Now one might see the scene painters at work, laboriously dabbing sticky paint on sheets of brown paper stuck together, and then naming the result as a forest scene. Even the Sanatorium had to do its bit. The ward was turned into the abode of the seamstresses and there Miss Alexander sat from morning till night, fashioning all manner of apparel from dainty garments for faires to sackcloth tunics for rustics.

Then too there were the rehearsals with C. Cobb as stage manager. Under her direction our first awkward blundering attempts at acting soon became more like the real thing. How she ever kept her temper is a marvel, but she was always cheerful and hopeful of good results from the most stammering of actors.

After a week of rehearsals " on our own " Miss De Castro, an experienced stage manager, came down to coach us individually and as a whole. She was working all day long with one or another of the actors. Stray individuals going down to practise in the new buildings would suddenly come across Prince John with his disdainful sneer, stalking along the garden path, Robin Hood clasping an invisible Maid Marian in his arms, Shadow-ofa-Leaf strewing make believe ferns before an invisible King, or Widow Scarlet weeping and wringing her hands before a Robin Hood who was not there. Miss De Castro could throw herself into the part of Fitzwalter as easily as she could into that of Shadow-of-a-Leaf, and her example was a great stimulus to would-be actors.

The eventful day drew on apace. Our Sunday walks revealed to us large posters announcing two performances of "Robin Hood" for Saturday and Monday, the 16th, 18th of July. Costumes and dresses were finished, and tried on, swords and daggers were to be had in abundance for the rehearsals, and at last everything was ready, even the dress rehearsal was over.

The great day dawned. The Company and dining rooms, Sanatorium and Studio were converted into dressing rooms peopled with fairies in gossamer dresses, court ladies in flowing robes, soldiers, rustics, merry-men and a

53

host of others.

The chairs were filling rapidly with parents and relations and the play began.

The scene opens in a glade in Sherwood where a serf is about to have his eyes put out by the Sheriff's men.

Princ John appears, and in spite of appeals to his mercy condemns the serf, and tells the Sheriff of his intention to be present at the betrothal feast of Robin Hood and Maid Marian. He intends to gain Maid Marian for himself and to do this is plotting the downfall of Robin Hood; and so the play continues, Robin Hood is seen endeavouring to evade the plots of Prince John, he is seen surrounded by his merry men in the green retreats of Sherwood with his betrothed at his side, or surrounded by his enemies whilst he is bound and helpless and at the mercy of Prince John. He escapes with the help of Shadow-of-a-Leaf, a good-hearted fool, who has more of his wits about him than many suspect.

Then Robin goes to warn Maid Marian at a masked dance. He escapes from the maskers in his disguise and goes wounded to Kirklee Priory where his maiden has already taken refuge. There Elinor, the sister of Prince John, disguised as a nun who has knowledge of wounds, says she can cure him, on the pretext of doing so she opens a vein and Robin begins to bleed to death, Then in comes Maid Marian who suspects something is wrong. She gives a cry of despair and sinking down besides Robin endeavours to awake him. Elinor stabs her and escapes hastily. Robin is only fainting and on hearing his name tries to arise. He falls down beside Maid Marian and pulling out his bugle blows a feeble blast. His merry-men hear the call and break into the Priory, vowing vengeance at the sight that there meets their eyes. Robin shoots his " last arrow at the setting sun " to mark where his grave is to be, then dies beside his " murdered Queen."

The performance was repeated on Monday with the added attraction of the presence of the Mayor and Corporation in full state. We felt extremely honoured by their visit. The Town Band played merrily and the sun shone the whole time.

It was rather disappointing when everything was over and we felt that we had acted our parts for the last time ; but we found that we had cleared nearly ÂŁ30 for the Scholarship Fund, and we had given enjoyment to about 600 people altogether.

Our success was greatly due to Cicely who prepared us so well in the beginning and then followed it up by

54 her splendid acting in the play.

We thoroughly enjoyed it ourselves and hope to be able to do something like it again at some future time.

M. P. Tallents.

DRAMATIS PERSONAE. Robin, Earl of Huntingdon Little John ...

Friar Tuck Outlaws Will Scarlet ...

Much Prince John ...

King Richard Cceur-de-Lion Blondel ...

Thorn-whisper ...

Fern-whisper ...

Sheriff of Nottingham Fitzwalter, father of Marian Shadow-of-a-Leaf, a Fool Arthur Plantagenet Elinor, sister to Prince John

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

A. ... ... ... ...

C. Cobb J. Jackson M. Tallents B. Pritchett M. Young D. Burke J. Beckett B. Thompson A. Westaway A. McClintock A. Le Mesurier E. Bodinnar F. Bartlett E. Gowers A. Le Mesurier

Marian Fitzwalter

...

R. Buck

...

Jenny, maid to Marian ...

M. Durst Widow Scarlet ...

M. Barton-Wright Prioress of Kirklee ... ...

E. Westaway A Nun ... ...

J. Ferguson Serf ... ...

D. Champain Blind Man ... ...

R. Moilliet Serfs, Rustics. Women-maskers, Men-maskers Merry-men, Sheriff's men, Retainers, Rustics,

Grosstete Company, 1926 — 1927.

Grosstfite was very unfortunate last year in losing so many of its valuable members, in particular R. Evans, our splendid head.

At the beginning of the Christmas Term, half the company was new, but we seem to have carried on quite well.

This year we again joined with Poore and produced " Robin Hood " as our Company play which was greatly enjoyed both by the audience and actors.

In the Company Lacrosse matches, we had an especially exciting game against Moberly, and after two narrow victories, we were again successful in winning the shield.

55

With the exception of one or two members, the general standard of our Company reading has not been very high, but we congratulate R. Buck on winning her badge, and hope that the Company will make a greater effort next year.

Several members have been very keen during the year in the Company duties, especially J. Inder, R. Moilliet and D. Champain, and we have been very fortunate in having Anne Le Mesurier who has been a very helpful and efficient Lieutenant. We are very sorry to be losing Y. Bartlett who has done much for us in the way of games, also S. Ferguson and A. McClintock and we wish the Company good luck in the future.

A. Bradford.

Moberly Company.

We were most fortunate last year in only losing one member of the Company, but this year we are losing four, all of whom have been in Moberly since its beginning.

Although we were beaten by Grosstfite in Lacrosse, we do not feel too cast down as it was a much better game than last year, and the team combined well.

In the Easter term we joined with Osmund and produced " The Rose and the Ring" by Thackeray, as a Company play ; although we had to give the performance at an afternoon's notice, everybody was most keen and helpful and any success achieved was entirely due to the spirit shown by each individual.

This year we were successful in winning the reading picture, beating Poo re by four points As regards our monthly duties, W. Murrell, V. Briscoe and L. Suffrin deserve mention for zeal in tidying ; the whole Company is very keen but their ardour is apt to wane towards the end of the week of office.

F. Bartlett.

Osmund Company.

We were very sorry indeed to lose our head E. Buszard; who left at the end of the Summer Term.

During the last year Osmund has had no great success.

In Lacrosse we were beaten by Grosstete, but after a really even game. We cannot say that we have done

56

well in the Reading Competition, but we are all much pleased that J. Beckett has won a badge Moberly and Osmund again joined for the Company Plays. This year we produced " The Rose and the Ring "

by Thackeray. The play was quite a success but most of the dramatic talent seemed to come from Moberly.

On the whole the Company's work has been very well done this year. J. Beckett especially, and M. Thynne, H. Bartrum, P. Lacon and B. Wasley have all worked very well. M. Rawlins has done very well as Sub. of the Company and Lacrosse Captain. Though some of the members of the Company have worked so well, others could have done better and are rather inclined to leave the responsibility to the few.

A Durst.

Poore Company.

This year has not been particularly remarkable in any way, but several members of the Company have worked really hard. J. Jackson, D. D. Trenchard and M. Durst deserve special praise, although there are still some members who do not take their duties seriously enough.

For the Company play we again joined with Grosstete and, after many heart-burnings, produced Alfred- Noyes' " Robin Hood," with great success. Although we beat Edmund Rich in the Company matches, we were again beaten by Grosstfite, after an exciting game. Everybody played well and the team combined far better than usual.

In the Reading Competition we did not do as well as last year, but the Company has lost several Seniors recently, M. Hill, J. Joscelyne and D. Emerson, all most helpful members, have left and the Company is about to lose the head C. Cobb, and the Lieutenant E. Bodinnar. Our great hope is that, when we come down as old girls, we may find Poore the best and strongest Company in the school C. Cobb Edmund Rich Company.

During the past year we have lost several members of our Company, but we see prospects of a larger Company in the future.

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We felt greatly flattered that Archdeacon Bodington should have written a " saga " for our Company first. The saga, which was on St. Edmund Rich, was recited at our entertainment given to the parents in the Lent term; that, (with a play by the little ones and sundry items including musical games) was very much appreciated.

We have not been very successful in the Company competitions. In the reading we were decidedly the worst in the school but we hope to do better next year when we shall have more seniors to choose from. At spelling we were a little better.

In the Lacrosse match against Poore we were beaten after gaining the first two goals. The junior members of the Company were more successful at their rounder match against the junior boarders, winning by 6| rounders.

The Company has shown more interest this year and we look forward to doing great things in the future.

G Dixon.

S. Edmund Rich, 1232—1240 Archbishop of Canterbury.

A preste there was in days of old At Calne in holy churche did fold His flock ; Rich was his name and he Was rich in faith and chanty, In learning rich but most of all Rich in the lowly trade Christe's call Had bade him plye ; ease, worldly pelf Given up, but first he gave himself, His parents both at Abingdon In all things good brot up their sonne, Mabel his mother bent his mind In Churche his happiness to find Herself first taught him how to learn Twixt good and evil to discern, To rule himself and to aspire Oxford's best learning to acquire, Ne soft ne idle must he be Though weak in health, " for thou." said she, " By prayer and discipline must win The battle strong 'gainst self and sin.

Live thou the simple life, and give Thyself more wholly if thou wouldst receive."

Next find we Edmund Rich beside

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The River Marden's gentle tide From Mill Street shepherding his flock With living water from the Rock Of Christ, and with the Bread of Life, A man of prayer he prayed for all Both good and bad both great and small.

And once he rose in middle night And sent his servant for a light That he to churche might go and pray Till the first dawnings of the day.

When first at churchyard he arrived He saw the dead who died unshrived Kneeling each one upon his grave His intercession thus to crave That rest and peace might to them be And for Christe's sake God's great pitie.

To Calne from Canterbury came (Since now to all had spread his fame) The Canon-Monks, who, Langton dead.

Hailed him Archbishop in his stead And with them brought the papal pall Of Primate Lord of England all.

But Rich to Salisbury first must go Wise Bishop Poore's advice to know.

Bid to consent he made reply ; The Monks they bore him shoulder high To Sunday Mass, and there they sing Te Deum to the Eternal King.

The rest is known by all full well For history of it doth tell, How Rich with England's statesmen fought For England's interests, falsely bought By foreign favourites, till at.length Vanquished and exiled, gone his strength He to Pontigny's Abbey fled From life and work and foes so dread And rested here till in the shade Of cloister garth his bones were laid.

And holy Churche did then decree Edmund a saint should ever be.

(It has long been felt that it would be delightful if each Company would produce its own song. Archdeacon Bodington has most kindly come to our aid in this, and in December gave us our first song, or rather " the saga of Edmund Rich." We are hoping for more from his pen!)

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The Library.

The Library progresses steadily. We now have the nucleus of a very good reference library. We cannot be too grateful to the Governors who have supplied us with so many of our new books, and to all those who have so kindly helped.

We are particularly grateful to Mr. Scott for a splendid gift—the Encyclopaedia Britannica— which has proved extremely useful. The growth of our library would be very slow were we dependent only on the modest subscription—1/6 a term—which is all we are asked to give and which also pays for our newspapers.

The removal of the library last year to the old II form (formerly Wordsworth dormitory) has given us a really quiet spot in which to work. This has been much appreciated.

E. M. Alexander.

The Garden.

This year Miss Matthews again offered prizes for bulbs grown in bowls, but on rather a different plan.

There were two competitions (1) For the best bowl of daffodils—the bulbs being provided—five for each form.

(2) For the best bowl of any flowering bulbs to be purchased by the forms. This proved a great improvement on the schemes of previous years as results showed. For one thing, the bulbs being planted almost at the same time flowered more or less together and judging was easier, also the results could be more easily compared. Competition was very keen, and in the case of the daffodils had finally to be decided on the number of blooms produced by the five bulbs. The prize went to IVa for a really splendid bowl of five tall blooms. Fifth Parallel and Remove carried off the other prize with their magnificent hyacinths. Mr. Mitchell, who again acted as judge, was delighted with all the exhibits and found his task by no means easy.

The '' own Gardens," partly perhaps on account of the weather, have been very much neglected. No prizes could, therefore, be awarded. It is hoped that next year their owners will be keener, and develop what might easily be delightful little gardens. The owners of No. 1 garden have worked well lately, and made great improvements in their plot.

In the main garden results have been very disappoint-

60

ing Foxgloves did not flower at all, owing to the late season, though they promise well for next year. Canterbury bells were stunted, even our stand-by Siberian wall flowers were very poor owing to wet and cold. Roses, on the other hand, have done well and we have had some splendid blooms, but, as one good lady remarked to me at the Parish Garden Party " Roses have done well everywhere this year." True, no doubt, but rather damping !

We again owe thanks to those who have helped in the garden in any way, especially to Miss Alexander and Miss James who have given time to superintending " weeding parties " again this summer.

G. M. G rover.

"Things I shall remember."

By a Leaving Prefect.

What is it that brings Old Girls back, sometimes after years away from school, when everyone they remember has left, when the buildings (and we are changeful almost as a sand-bank in the bed of a swift-flowing river) have altered beyond knowledge ? Above all, and this is the key to the whole mystery of what it feels like to be an old girl, what do they talk about when one S.M.C. meets another ? For until one has tried it, it is impossible to say what it feels like to be an old girl. The conversation of those who come down for week-ends during term is sometimes a guide to what other people remember. But only time will show us what sticks hardest in the memory.

There are always certain things, crises as it were, which no one ever really forgets. A " pointed" sermon in Chapel on Sunday evening a really devastating row in Mark Reading—people remember these if they have had anything to do with them.

Then there are stories, grossly exaggerated as a rule, which are told to everyone who comes down for a weekend, and with much repetition become unforgettable to those who tell them.

Besides these things which are common property for a comparatively large number of people, there aie moments which are unforgettable for entirely private reasons The fight one had to put up not to show jealous disappointment at being turned out of a school team (do boys have those unsportsmanlike feelings, I wonder, or are they the heritage of Eve ?) or the intense bitterness of finding oneself unequal to the occasion when the school talks in the

01

dining room before Grace. One does not easily forget these things.

Then there are moments which one never talks about, but hopes never to forget, and things too—the Blue Chapel which I knew for five years will not be forgotten because it is to be cream and oak-panelled. Even the doors, whose squares of coloured glass could be rearranged so satisfactorily by looking at them on Wednesday mornings, will be remembered on equal terms with the oak ones, not for their beauty but for their associations.

It is little things full of memories that one remembers.

That is one reason why improvements which do away with grievances are sometimes a grievance themselves.

I suppose it is generally realised among old girls that there is a certain S. Mary's spirit which becomes so entirely a part of everyone who has been here long that it cannot be forgotten and cannot be analysed. It is this which makes it so difficult to express what one feels is going to be remembered. The school life is so much a part of one that it is impossible to pick out prominent things which one feels will never be forgotten.

Chapel, dormitory, form-room, have all become a part of oneself, and although there are attractions about the idea of a larger life, it is more than horrible to have to imagine the school life going on perfectly evenly without one, and one's own place, of which one is more than a little proud, being filled up without the slightest difficulty. This is a humiliating and a salutary thought.

School affords many parallels to earthly life; but it is quite as difficult to think of leaving as a "gate" to life as to think of death as an entrance to higher things.

[This was an end-of-term essay, never intended for publication, but appropriated by the Editor.]

Form Drill Competition.

March 31st, 1927.

The Form Competition was held on March 31st this year. We were very fortunate in having Mrs. Babington for our Judge and although there were a few who thought that she would remember their little weaknesses, they need have had no fears. We could not have had a more helpful Judge.

The Cup was won by the VI form and although the standard in all the forms was unusually even, the VI

62

form shewed their superiority by more controlled and accurate work The marks were as follows : — Form VI 83 Va 80 III 78 Vb 76 V R. G, IVb 75 IVa 73 As in the last year's competition the form Sergeants took the Marching, Fancy Marching and Opening Files, the choice of fancy march being taken into consideration in the judging. B. Thompson again won the Cup for Vb—the marks being:— B. Thompson Vb 35 E. Bodinnar VI 31 Y. Bartlett V R. 29 J. Beckett Va 27 D. Champain IVb. 26 B. Pritchett IVa 23 In her criticism Mrs. Babington said that the marching was on the whole very light, and that some of the forms had a very good sense of rhythm. The vaulting in some cases lacked finish, and she emphasised the necessity for everyone in the form to realise that it is only by the combined efforts of each individual that the standard can be raised. One careless " finish " can spoil the effect of a whole form.

With regard to the Sergeants Mrs. Babington said that some of the forms had not been quite careful enough in their choice of Fancy Marching, and in some cases had chosen movements which hindered rather than helped the the marching. B. Thompson commanded well and obviously had control of her class, while some of the others were rather slow and unconvincing in their manner.

J. O. Goodrich.

The Codolphin Drill Competition.

May 19th, 1927.

After being postponed from the previous term the competition against the Godolphin School was held on May 19th. The Godolphin worked first, and both teams did their unprepared work afterwards.

Miss Hurry very kindly came to judge and S. Mary's won the Cup—the marks being as follows: —

63

S. Mary's Godolphin Prepared 81 74 Unprepared 75 71 Unfortunately Miss Hurry was obliged to leave early to catch her train so she was unable to finish giving her criticism. She said the S. Mary's were neater and quicker in moving about the room but that the Godolphin were on the whole lighter in their landing. In the unprepared work there was very little to choose between the two Schools.

J, O. Goodrich.

Lacrosse, 1926—1927.

MATCHES. October 23rd, Clifton Ladies.

Victory 14—1.

November 27th, Godolphin II. Defeat 25—1.

March 22nd, Wiltshire Ladies.

Victory 6—3.

TEAM. Goal E. Bodinnar* Point C. Cobb Cover Point G. Turner* 3rd Man M. Rawlins L. Defence A. Bradford* R Defence Y. Bartlett Centre H. Bartrum L. Attack R. Buck* R. Attack B. Thompson 3rd Home J. Ferguson 2nd Home J. Jackson 1st Home F. Bartlett "Colours.

On the whole the teams has played fairly well, but if only the members thought more of showing their speed and a determination to get past their man, the improvement would be immediate. When contrasted with opposing teams—who are not dispirited by momentarily failure—our weakness is evident.

In the Company matches which Grosstete won from Ppore, by 7 goals to 4, the standard of play was a little higher, but teams still sacrifice style to everything else.

There are several members of the team who have worked well and steadily and thoroughly deserve to be congratulated: R. Buck, H. Bartrum and J. Ferguson

64

have all proved useful and reliable attacks, and A. Bradford, Y. Bartlett and G. Turner will be greatly missed, as they have maintained a steady standard of play and have often saved a seemingly hopeless position.

E. Bodinnar, (Captain.)

Netball, 1926 1st' Team.

F. Bartlett, G.S. J. Beckett, A. J. Jackson A.C. G. Turner* C. Y. Bartlett* B.C. R. Buck*j; D. C. Cobb G.D.

•Colours.

1927.

2nd Team.

J. Inder A. Bradford B. Lacon P. Lacon J. Young S. Tench M. Rawlins

MATCHES. S. Mary's II. v. Tytherton I. Won 27—12 S. Mary's II. v. Trowbridge I. Won 31-3 S. Mary's I. v. Royal School Lost 8—21 SHOOTING COMPETITION. VI. beat Parallels and Remove 44—36 FORM MATCHES. Va. beatVb. 13—11 Although the first team were not successful in their only match, the general standard of play has improved, both in the first two teams, and throughout the school, especially among the Juniors, and there has been some hard work during practices. Speed and alertness have improved considerably, and F. Bartlett, G. Turner and Y. Bartlett are to be mentioned for quick, neat play. A higher standard of accuracy must however be attained by all members of the teams, for at present all idea of style is abandoned before the desire to win, this being especially noticeable in the Form matches. This fault must be corrected for otherwise all ambition is wasted.

There has not been nearly enough keen shooting practice this year, and consequently the scores in the Shooting Competition were not high. This easily can, and must be remedied so that we shall have more success in our matches during the coming season.

R. Buck, (Captain).

Team—

65 Cricket.

F. Bartlett* Y. Bartlett R. Buck M. Tallents H. Bartrum* G. Turner M. Rawlins B. Pritchett J. Jackson P. Lacon J. Young 'Colours

Chiefly owing to the weather the team has not had much opportunity of proving itself this year; we have only had two matches, one against the Royal School 2nd XI which we won 75-41, the other against the County School 2nd XI in which we were badly beaten 56— 74 for six wickets.

Although the team has improved on the whole most of them still lack confidence and are slow in adapting themselves to bowling to which they are not accustomed.

Batting has improved, especially in dealing with straight balls, but there is no excuse for slackness in backing up and calling, which is an almost universal fault of the team.

The fielding is good, but each member must strive after still cleaner picking up and quicker throwing in.

R. Buck and H. Bartrum deserve special mention in the field; M Rawlins has shown great improvement in batting, and J. Jackson should prove a reliable member of the team ; M. Tallents has made a very good beginning but must learn to be much quicker. B. Lacon has been a useful substitute.

There has been quite a lot of keen practice throughout the school and many of the Juniors show promise, but no one will prove a really sound cricketer until she learns to practice with intelligence and pay more attention to the way in which she hits the ball than to the distance she can send it.

F. Bartlett, (Captain).

Tennis.

Summer term, 1927.

MATCHES. v. Miss Burton's VI. Lost 5 — 4 sets v. Bath High School.

Lost 70—47 games 1st VI. R. Buck.

G. Turner.

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J. Inder.

J. Beckett.

F. Bartlett M. Rawlins.

As the weather has been so bad there has not been so much tennis this term as there might have been, and the play has not reached so high a standard as last year.

A few members of the team have played well and steadily throughout the term, especially J. Inder, and J. Beckett's net play has shewn improvement, while the service of the whole team is stronger. It was very noticeable in our matches however that the general fault is the failure to anticipate the placing of the opponent's returns and to move quickly about the court. Also that the drives on to the back line have not nearly enough force behind them, while the team are rather slow in finding out the opponents' weaknesses.

There has been some hard practice by the members of the team and substitutes, and net play has improved, but the Middle and Lower Schools have been very slack and few of them have taken any advantage of the excellent coaching given them. Until these people realize that Tennis needs as much serious practice as other games, the standard of play of the whole school will not be high.

The form Tennis Cup was won by Va, who played steadily throughout the tournament.

R. Buck, (Captain).

The singles cup Was won by R. Buck. She also won the Championship prize, (so kindly given by Mrs. Cole) beating G. Turner in the final after two excellent sets.

(6-4, 7-5.)

Presents to the School, 1926—1927.

We have once again been most fortunate, and gifts have been showered upon us. Chief among these are an invaluable present from Mr. Scott: the " Encyclopaedia Britannica " : we cannot say how glad we are to add this to the Library.

Miss Williams has also given us a beautiful present: she has worked, in a really wonderful way, a school banner for the Chapel.

This is a very precious possession.

The delightful scheme set on foot by Mrs. Robins in 1925 has indeed borne fruit. She presented a "leaving

67

chair" from Ursula for the Hall. We now have no fewer than thirty-two of these, and the Hall in consequence is gaining very much in dignity.

Mrs. Thynne's present of a Sewing Machine has been greatly appreciated by the dressmaking classes.

Our full list of presents—up to July, 1927—is as follows:— For the Chapel. Alms bag from the Confirmation Candidates. A banner, worked and given by Miss Williams.

Pole for banner from Mr. Culley.

Flowers from Dr. and Mrs. Ede, Miss Damant, Miss Grover, Mrs. Parry.

For the Library. The " Encyclopaedia Britannica " from the Rev. A. L. Scott; Books from Mrs. Dudley Matthews, Miss Proctor, Miss Damant, The Rev. A. B. Browne, M. Bigwood, E. Kitson, Z. Inder.

Gramophone Records. Mr. Pullein.

Hall Chairs. A. Bradford, M. Gould, J. Williams, M. Jenkins, M. Hiscock and M. Hulbert, J. and M. Hussey, A. Burke, J. Joscelyne, J. Beckett, J. and S. Ferguson, F and Y. Bartlett, C. Cobb, W Murrell, V. and G. Turner, E. Bodinnar.

Silver Cups. For Shakespeare Competition from Sir John Hindley, Bart.

For Drill Competition with Tytherton. Junior and Senior Cups from Mr Goodrich.

For Company " Spelling" Competition from Miss Monica Jones.

Sewing Machine from Mrs. Thynne Pictures. " A Dutch Interior" by de Hooch, from Girls leaving Summer Term, 1926 Picture of the Desert from Mrs Welch.

Historical Portraits for collection in Lower V.—W. Murrell, E. Tench, J. Jackson and E. Westaway, D. Mallock and D. D. Trenchard, M Cole and J Inder, G Ivamy and B. Thompson, H. Tench, M. Durst and R. Moilliet, E. Betty and H. Bartrum.

Clocks. For the Hall from the school on Miss Matthews' birthday, and a bracket for clock from Mr. Culley.

Clock for the Company room for Girls leaving December, 1926.

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Old Girls' Badges.

The Old Girls' Badges, a small shield brooch in blue and white enamel, may be obtained at any time from Miss Matthews The price (including postage) is 2/8.

Notice.

Snbscriptions to the News Sheet should be sent, as soon as possible, to A A. Le Mesurier. Each copy costs 1/6. Life Membership ÂŁ1 1 0 The News Sheet will, in future, be published in September Contributions, and news of " Old Girls," for publication in the next number should be sent to the Editor before August 1st, 1928.

We have received, with thanks, Magazines from the Godolphin School, Salisbury; Queen Margaret's School, Scarborough; S. Margaret's School, Bushey; S. Mary's and S. Anne's, Abbots Bromley; Queen's College, Barbados ; London Orphan School; Royal School, Bath ; The Study, Montreal; S. Katherine's, Heatherton Park; Abbey School, Reading; Sandecotes, Parkstone.