ST. MARY'S SCHOOL NEWS SHEET. July, 1929—July
1930.
For the first time since our first number of 1916 we write under the shadow of sorrow, a great sorrow. This year will always be remembered for the passing of our beloved friend and "second founder," Archdeacon Bodington. Without him we feel that S. Mary's can never again be quite the same place : if we needed proof of that—but indeed we did not -it was made clear by the avalanche of letters that came pouring in from old girls, one and all stressing the fact. Apart from that overwhelming sorrow the year has been one of quiet development, and once again we have seen the Governors hard at work on our behalf. S. Bridget's is now our own property, and a very beautiful property it is. A spacious cloakroom, the " last word " in convenience and dignity has added greatly to our comfort. A magnificent Fernden hard court is the envy of earlier generations, while many lesser developments have added to our appearance. Another feature of the year has been the General Inspection by the Board of Education, which took place in May. We were visited by six Inspectors—the first we had seen since we were first " recognised as efficient" ten years ago. We found their, visit most encouraging, helpful and cheering.
Archdeacon Bodington. December 17, 1862—October 25, 1929. We were his children. He loved the school, he believed in us, he trusted us, and when he left us on S. Crispin's Day we felt orphaned. His passing came to us as so terrible a shock. We were looking forward, as was he, to his visit to us on October 26th for a Governors' meeting, to be followed next day by hearing him once more in the pulpit of the Parish Church. And then, quite suddenly, came the news he was ill, and after two days of acute anxiety, the unbelievable happened—he had left us. " These wounds I had on Crispin's Day", yes, wounds indeed. S. Mary's cannot be quite the same place without him, and his most endearing and attractive personality. We quote from a minute passed at the Governors' meeting on October 26th :—" Nowhere will he be more sincerely mourned or missed than in S. Mary's School, which for close upon twenty-five years has formed one of the chief interests of his work and of his life, and to which he has devoted his constant care and affection. During the first few years of his Ministry in Calne, the prospects of the School remained a constant source of uncertainty, and the possibility of its surviving the lean years, when it could not pay its way, caused much anxiety as to its future to those interested in the School. But to Archdeacon Bodington the problem never involved a doubt. The School was a part of his Ministry and the School must succeed. He loved the young, and he loved the ideal of the upbringing of the young in the peaceful surroundings which he had been instrumental in obtaining for the School, and in the faith of the Church of which he was a Minister. And succeed it did —his confidence, and love, and prayer have received their full reward in the School as it is to-day. As it grew in size and importance, the personal responsibility of the Archdeacon increased correspondingly, and he had often felt that it was necessary for its future well being that its constitution should be based on some more permanent and extended basis, and that the duties which he had for so long carried out on his sole responsibility should be shared by others. His desire has now been effectuated in the present Scheme and Constitution of the School, of which of course the Archdeacon remained one of the Governors. In this
8
year, and in this month, all the preliminary and necessary arrangements have been completed, by which the care and government of the School have been transferred by him to the present body of Governors, and to-day, at this meeting, the final fact was to be announced and recorded that the transfer was now complete in all its details." To two old girls we owe the following: — " So another Mr. Valiant-for-Truth has passed over, and surely ' all the trumpets sounded for him on the other side.' So long as the School lives his name must survive, but those of us who knew him will feel that the perpetuation of his name is as nothing to that of his ideals. This then is our concern-to find out what it was in all his love and interest for us that holds so much significance for those coming generations who will never know him. Primarily I think it was his belief in us. He not only expected the best of us, but he seemed to take it for granted. It is vital that the School should remember it, for if only it can be permanently imbued with the knowledge that here was a first class man who believed it to be all that was best and highest with unshakable confidence, S. Mary's will go far towards justifying his faith. Herein shall be our gain, but to us who knew him and loved him, who looked to him to lead us on-how great also is our loss! Year in, year put, unfailingly, he made us free of his great gifts of wisdom, humour and kindliness. He loved the school, and never failed to tell us so, and many of us must have caught again from him fresh enthusiasm and pride in it. What could we do but love him and honour him ? And now what can we do but see to it that his ideals for us stand for ever as a touchstone for the life of the school ? Surely there is not one amongst us who would not say: " Oh, sir, I know not how to be willing you should leave us in our pilgrimage; you have been so faithful and loving to us, you have fought so stoutly for us, you have been so hearty in counselling of us, that I shall never forget your favour towards us." " Then said Mr. Valiant-for-Truth : ' My sword I give to him that shall succeed me in my pilgrimage.' " M. O. Hill.
" He was extremely courteous. One could not imagine him being even abrupt, and he treated all of us often uncouth schoolgirls as though we were gracious ladies. Though we often had fun with him, he never talked down to us; for him we were all individuals, never just a mass of girls. When we came back as old girls we would tease him about pretending to remember some of our names. He always stoutly maintained that he did, and the marvel was that he really did remember a few. The pretence at remembering the others was just like him-so anxiously tender of other people's feelings, and so everything that is not dull and institutional. And how he used to beam at us! One couldn't help beaming back. He called himself the school's grandfather, and certainly no grand-parent could look more proud and pleased than he did on Prize Days and similar occasions. He would look at Miss Matthews and smile, he would look at the Governors and smile, and he would look at us and smile again, and his speech would dissolve into telling us how nice we were which meant, how fond he was of us. kfp.Jifi..*'-^-^ *f I must say something about the Thursday lessons. I don't suppose anybody who was at Calne with him will forget the map of Mesopotamia! During most of my school life the class was in Chapel, and having no board there he used to draw his ma'p most successfully in the air. 'The Tigris here (left arm) and the Euphrates there (right arm) and Mesopotamia (immense and triumphant gesture with both arms) in the middle.' some of us used to tease him about it when we were old girls, but we assured him that it got it into our heads, and I hope he still went on drawing it. Apart from geography, I think he treated the rather shattering idea (to the young and literally brought up) that most of the miracles can be explained, most beautifully. Another thing that we can hardly forget is his definition of sin, ' to know the higher and choose the lower'; or the thought which he often repeated that we can only walk or bowl a cricket ball by going into partnership with God, by obeying laws which we did not make. And, both on Thursdays and in his sermons, the sympathy and humanness with which he talked about the difficulty of prayer will always remain with us." ]. Hughes (Sorsbie).
A few extracts from letters from old girls •.— " I have just heard of the Archdeacon's death, and somehow one must tell someone how extraordinarily sorry one feels about it. We can only half realize the loss to the school. I suppose the idea of Calne without the Archdeacon is familiar to you now, but to us who left before he did, it still seems almost incredible. I'll never forget his tea parties, especially when he was alone with us, talking on and on by the fire in his own room,— or Wednesday morning Chapel, reducing the Burning Bush and the Plagues to the purely normal-or his struggling speeches on Prize Day. I think we liked and respected him more than we knew almost—I did because we knew there was an absolute bed-rock of genuine love for, and interest in the school behind his strange extravagant praise of us. I, for one, am glad to have known him, and I suppose hundreds of us will feel that somehow some vital part of the school must suffer by his death." " Incredible though it seems to us, I suppose the present school knew, comparatively, little of the Archdeacon, for those who were there while he was at Calne were still low in the school, and it was not till one was in the Vl, attended his Wednesday classes, and perhaps talked with him after Church when the " crocs " had gone, that one really came to love him. One grew to love his teaching for the very parentheses which at first had seemed tedious, involved, but later became a fascinating journey with him down the paths and bypaths of his mind, pausing, turning aside, or hurrying on as one interesting observation attracted his attention and led to the next. There was an excitement in never knowing where a lesson on Ezekiel would end, and a charm of intimacy when, ten minutes after the bell had rung, he would hurriedly read through the appointed chapter, saying we must get to the end for Miss Matthews would ask how we had got on! It was unbelievable when he left Calne, and in thinking of school we never remembered that he must be omitted from the picture—how it could continue as the school without him was vaguely a mystery. There is, selfishly, some satisfaction in knowing that the loss to the school in some measure prepared and softened the greater loss now."
6
" Ever since I heard of the Archdeacon's death S. Mary's, and my particular association with S. Mary's, has been in the front of my mind. He loved us as a whole, and yet his influence was so individual . . . One cannot say the usual things about the Archdeacon—he was the essence of S. Mary's, and the embodiment of all it stands for, afterwards (not nearly so much at the time—one was not old enough to realize his essential goodness). He was the impetus pushing the school always from behind the scenes, having faith in every venture. His influence, I'm sure, will continue to spur on S. Mary'sto-be, but those who have never had the everlasting privilege of knowing the Archdeacon will never know what a big part his memory plays in the lives of the old girls, when it is so dreadfully difficult to keep the ideals of the school ever on the horizon." " He is going to be most terribly missed by all sorts and kinds and classes of people, and perhaps more by those who knew him at S. Mary's than anywhere else He always said that S. Mary's was a holiday and refreshment to him, so perhaps we saw him at his very best, and when he was exuding love even more intensely than usual. . . . He was marvellous in enjoying other people's enjoyments, wasn't he? . . . He was so full of glorious common-sense, and humour, and had such a delightful way of imparting his wisdom ! We didn't always understand him, and we often laughed at his belief that we were all saints and angels, but no one will ever know how many efforts and inspirations his belief inspired." " I hope he knew how much he meant to us all, and how we loved him. I didn't know how much I counted on him being there and seeing him again someday until now. I do hope I shall be able to keep up to the S. Mary's standards which were so largely his. I am so glad and proud that I was one of his children." The following appeared in " The Wiltshire Gazette" :— Nowhere will the death of Archdeacon Bodington be felt more deeply than at S. Mary's School, Calne. Founded, as the school was, in 1873, by Canon Duncan, the Archdeacon may indeed be called its second Founder. The minute book bears witness to that, and to the continual struggle he had to fan into life the feeble flame
that was so often all that served to show that the school was still alive Time after time the precarious condition of the school was discussed, time after time he resolved to carry it on. Finally, in September, 1913, the Governors voted for the closing of the school. But the Archdeacon refused to acquiesce in what he felt would be an act of betrayal to the cause of true education in Calne, and with the generous help of Mr. Dunne, and a small band of guarantors, he faced the future afresh. And his optimism was abundantly justified. With the coming of the War, the tide turned; inland schools, where the children would be safe from air raids, were in demand; St. Mary's began to grow, and has never looked back. The close connection with such a mind as the Archdeacon's could not fail to bring to the school he loved, something very precious, very intangible What he did for the generations of Confirmation candidates — so many of them now scattered throughout the world— will never be known; what his teaching (and he rarely missed a Wednesday morning at the school) meant to the elder and the more thoughtful girls cannot be measured in words. Since his death letters have come pouring in from his " old girls," and their parents, and all show the same affection. " I cannot tell you how sad I am," writes one, " I do feel that his belief that we were all that was good and true shamed many of us into trying to live up to his standard He was always so gentle and courteous." His vital spirit left an indelible mark on the young minds with whom he came in contact; they could not fail to be influenced by his sensitive love of beauty—the beauty of literature and of the written word (there was a certain distinction in every letter he wrote), the beauty of fair buildings (did anyone ever love Calne Church as he loved it, or do more to inspire others to love it ?), the beauty of music, the beauty of nature, the beauty of holiness. All this he conveyed to the children with whom he was in constant contact. And with them around him he was irresistibly gay. He understood youth, sympathised with it, was never " shocked" ; that has been the secret of his influence. " Next week," he wrote, "I shall be with you-in •the ideal school" These were his last words to us, and what a challenge they contain ! It was to be otherwise ; when the day we had looked to see him came he had already passed into Life. His vital sensitive spirit had been
set free, as we believe for further service. It is in that thought alone that we can find courage to face the crushing blow that has befallen the school he so loved and served. Mors Janua Vitae Memorial to Archdeacon Bodington.
At the Reunion in July a special committee was appointed to consider the question of a Memorial to the Archdeacon, and circulars are being sent to all old girls asking for their co-operation. There have been various suggestions as to the form the Memorial should take: all were agreed upon a brass in Chapel, while there seemed to be a very general opinion that a cross, candlesticks and vases, which we so sadly need, should also be considered as part of the scheme. Meanwhile we ask for contributions as until we have some idea of the sum we shall raise we can decide nothing furher. Miss Matthews will be very glad to receive any sums sent to her for the purpose. We are most anxious to close the fund in October. Old girls who do not possess Archdeacon Bodington's little book " God with us" may like to know that it was published by Messrs. Longmans at 21- and can still be procured from any bookseller. The Governing Body.
In Sir Ernest Gowers, K.C.B., K.B.E., the Governors have co-opted on to the Governing Body one we may consider almost as an "old friend." Ever since Eileen came to us five years ago he has shewn the greatest interest in the school. The Bishop of Sherborne has been appointed to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Archdeacon Bodington. To both these Governors we extend a hearty welcome. Staff Changes.
This year has seen few changes on the staff. We were very glad to hear that in granting her a full term's leave of absence in January the Governors were recognising all that Miss Alexander had done for us in her fourteen years here—years in which she had never, through ill-health, been absent for a single day Unfor-
tunately, she developed neuritis during her holiday, and so was unable to return to us in the summer term. It must be difficult for those who know the school to imagine how we have got on without Miss Alexander: that things have gone so well we owe largely to Miss Angell James who has taken her place as second mistress. Miss Adams, who has had interesting experience in New Zealand, came to teach French during these two terms: we wish her all that is best in her new post in Winnipeg. In Mademoiselle Chaumonnot we welcomed in January an additional member of the staff; she quickly made for herself quite a place of her own, and helped to make our attempts at conversation more lively than they had ever been before, so we were all very sorry when we heard that she was to leave us in July. W^e congratulate her on her appointment to the headship of a school in Geneva. Her place is to be filled by Mademoiselle Antoine. In July we were very sorry indeed to say goodbye to Miss Brown who had done so much for the girls taking advanced work in classics, but not for them only. Many, through her delightfully interesting lessons, have been introduced to the study of Greek Literature. In her three years here Miss Brown's enthusiastic teaching has proved a real stimulus, and she will be greatly missed. Just at present, however, there is not enough classical teaching to occupy two mistresses, and Miss Brown's place has been filled by Miss Daldy (Battersea Domestic Science Training College, and Bristol University) as Science mistress. We are hoping as a result of her appointment to develop the Science teaching in the school, and especially to arrange for courses in Biology. In this we are most fortunate in that we are to have the help of Mr. A. G. Lowndes (Biology master at Marlborough College) who is to give us next winter a course of Lantern Lectures in Biology. The Confirmation. The Confirmation was held in the Parish Church on Sunday, December 8th. The service was taken by the Bishop of Salisbury. The following were confirmed :— M. B. Butler P. L. Clarence
10
N. M. Cole D. Duder M. E. Fry C. M. Gale J. M. Hughes A. Ilott M. K. Longridge P. M F. Mackey M. N. E. Mansergh M. O. Neatby D. M. Osman-Jones R. E. R. Wasley M. E. Wilson A. Wood P. J. Young Thirty relations and friends who were present signed the Confirmation Register. The Archdeacon held a special celebration for us on December 13th, at which the newly confirmed made their First Communion. Social Service. 1929—1930. The Church Roof Fund. It was a great shock to hear that the Church Roof was in a very dangerous condition, and, if only from the " safety first " motive, the school had to collect something towards the £2,500 needed to repair it. During the Easter holidays, therefore we took home envelopes labelled " Church Roof Fund " in which we put all the money we could scrape together by fair means or foul. At the beginning of the Summer Term there was a school meeting at which these were presented to the Archdeacon and Mr. Redman (the Secretary of the Appeal Fund.) Each envelope bore testimony to the method by which it was filled —e g. " For neglecting to practise, 2/-" " Saved by not answering letters, 6d.", " For hiring out a private ammonia bottle, 9d.", " For curing brother of slang, I/-." Miss Matthews, Mr and Mrs. Redman and Miss Prior gave prizes to those who guessed nearest to the amount raised (and these helped to swell the amount.) We were pleased with our total of £44 14s. 9d.
11 U. G. S. Health Festival.
We held our annual Health Festival at S. Luke's Tide. It was as successful as ever, the Chapel was overflowing with beautiful gifts for the sick and needy in our Mission District. It was delightful that so many old girls remembered us, and helped to swell the offerings. We had gifts from R. Buck, A Durst, M. Durst, J. Ferguson, N. Fisher, M. Hill. M. Hulbert, I. Martineau, I. Martin, A. A. Le Mesurier, M. Tallents, M. Thynne, E. Westaway, and from Mrs. Le Mesurier. The Mission has been going through a very critical time, as the Settlement has been forced to move from its quarters in Peckham Road to a new building in Stafford Street. The sum of £7,000 is needed to purchase the new hall, and build accommodation for the Staff. By Easter we had been able to raise £20 and in July added to this the further sum of £11 10s. 8d. collected at a display of Country Dancing. Four of us have already seen the new Settlement, as we were able to go to the Social Service Week. This was most interesting; we were shown various aspects of club work—an evening institute for girls, a childrens' play centre, and a club display by members of clubs run in connection with the Settlement. We also heard a speaker upon the international importance of club work. The whole school was aroused to new interest in the work of the U.G.S., by the visit in March of the Organizing Secretary, Miss Braithwaite. Other Social Service.
Several times during the Easter Term and through the holidays we were able to lend one of our net ball courts to girls from Harris's factory They were coached by Miss Snell and members of the team, and were very keen. Before Christmas a party from the school entertained the inhabitants of the workhouse with carol singing. They seemed to enjoy this and the crackers, tobacco and sweets which were distributed. We hope that this will become an annual tradition. R. Moilliet.
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Tuesday's Offertories. September, 1929—July, 1930. RECEIPTS.
EXPENDITURE.
£
s 5 18 16 2 11
d 0 10 6 6 0
8 Terms' Subscriptions 21 Tuesday's Offertories 4 Hospital Box 6 Diocesan Fund Box(S. Prisca's) Special Collections— 2 2 0 Dr. Schweitzer Derry Hill Church 1 13 4 Reseating Fund
£45
9
U
G.S.
£
..Terms' Subscriptions 8 Children's Country Holiday Fund 3 I Special Appeal 7 I Reggie Day (Christmas) as) Flowers I '' Records" ^Postage 6 U.M.C.A. 1 Accra Dr. Schweitzer. 2 Bath & Bristol Hospitalss 4 Waifs and Strays Parish Church Flowers Diocesan Fund 6 Derry Hill Church Reseating Fund 1
2
s d. 5 0 15 15 17 5 7 6 17 1 2 16 15 10 2
6 0 6 0 6 4 0 0 0 6 0 0 6
13
4
£45 9
2
Special Efforts. In addition to our usual support of the U.G.S. and U.M.C.A. we have been asked to help towards the £7,000 specially needed to replace the U.G.S. settlement in the Peckman Road by the new one in Stafford Street. To this we have already sent £31 10 8, made up as follows:— £ s. d. Collections 7 15 0 Company Plays 1017 6 Country Dancing 11 10 8 Form V I 1 7 6
£31 10 8 Our second special effort (reported elsewhere) was on behalf of the Church Roof Fund. For this we raised £44 14 9.
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The " Michael Hussey Organ Fund." This has not grown so quickly as we had hoped. There have been many other calls this year, with the special appeals for the new U.G.S. settlement, and for the Calne Parish Church Roof Repairs. We hope, however, that our friends will remember us, as the Chapel harmonium has so long ago seen its best days that we are longing for the time when a small organ can seem within our reach. The Fund stands at present:— £ s. d. Acknowledged August 1929 ... 22 4 3 F . Groves (Farnfield) ... 2 2 0 Mrs. Mansergh ... ... 1 1 0 Sale of handkerchiefs ... 4 9 MissDamant ... ... 10 0 R. Hughes ... ... 5 0 Confirmation Candidates (Dec. 1929) 118 6 Mrs. Wasley ... ... 1 1 0 Chapel Box ... ... 16 3 V. Turner ... ... 5 0 E Kitson ... ... 2 6
£30 10 3
School List, July
1930. All Form VI and those marked * are school prefects. FORM B. M. Gardiner G. M. Kirby R M. K. Moilliet J. L. Suffrin E. J. Adnitt M. W. Goodden M B. Butler N. M. Cole E. A. Gowers * E. D. B. Champain P. L. Dixon C. M. Gale J. M. Hughes M. K. Longridge
vr.
Came. 1925 2 M B. Sheldon 1926 3 M. F. Hort N. M. Williams 1926 3 1924 3 G. F. Fleetwood Jones 1926 3 B M. Rice 1926 3 G. M. Shipley UPPER V fa) 1924 3 D. M. Osman-Jones 1918 3 D. I. Maxwell 1925 1 C. M. Young * UPPER V (b) 1925 2 P. M. F. Mackey 1919 2 R. Matthews 1923 3 M. Ogle M. E. Wilson 1928 3 1928 3 P. J. Young
Came. 1928 l 1925 3 1925 3 1926 1 1927 3 1927 a
1922 3 1928 2 1925 3 1929 1 1928 3 1926 3 1928 1 1920 3
14 C. M. Allen E. K. K. Betty M. Farrington * J. M. G. Foster R. M. Hales A D Hill
ARTS & 1925 l 1926 3 1927 t 1927 3 1928 ;3 1929 i
CRAFTS. E. C. Hindlev R Jenner P. A Lacon * J I . M M. McCormick R. E K. Wasley
1927 1927 1923 1928 1926
1 2 3 J 1
1927 1928 1926 1929 1929 1929 1928 1929 1928 1924
2 3 1 3 'i 3 3 1 3 3
LOWER V V. M. Armstrong B. M. Brooke N P. Chase A. N. C. Churchill P. L. Clarence E G. Combes A. M. B Conybeare D. Duder S M. Evans-Lawrence I. E. W. Heywood W. Osman-Jones M. E. Fry M. J. Hindley A. Ilott
J. G. Alexander M. C. Beale C F. Bradford C. D. M. Churchill M. J Gale S. W. Goodden C. A. Hall W. M. Heath R. Aldworth K. B Bulmer A Carver B M. Chadwick D. A. Chenevix Trench E. B. Combes J. H. Cross Y. Hill Z. V. r.eigh-Pemberton R. E. Amphlett V. M. Combes P D Ede D M Ede E. G. Long
J. Combes D Maundrell
1930 1 S. M. I.unt 1929 1 F. C. Leigh- Mallory 1928 3 M N. E Mansergh 1922 * J S. Marjoribanks 1928 l S M. McRae 1927 3 B. S. Mitchell 1928 1 M O Neatbv 1927 3 N G Philips 1927 3 H . G . Ward 1928 3 A. B. M. Westawav 1923 3 REMOVE 1927 8 D M. Leveson 1929 2 D M. Orlebar 1928 1 . A E Wood UPPER IV 1929 1 E. M. Minnis 1929 1 R. G. Mogg 1929 * F. K. Moilliet 1923 * M. Stead 1923 3 K M. Svnge :s 1929 D. E. Waller 1929 •' L. B M. Wollen 1928 2 LOWER IV. 1929 3 M. C Long 1929 3 I) C. M. M a i t l a n d 1929 •! P M. -McCormick 1930 •'A. Nettelfield 1929 3 p. Pigott 1927 3 M M. Reade 1929 3 K. M. Trow 1929 » P. K. Waterfall 1930 * FORM III. 1929 1 I. Gough 19-27 3 G M Henlv 1927 3 M. E. Matthews FORM II 1927 3 F. O. Matthews 1927 3 FORM I. 19-29 1 192!) 1
M B Wiltshire P. V. Lawrence
1927 3 1928 3 1928 -2 1929 1928 1929 1929 1929 1929 192S
3 2 1 i 3 3 3
1925 3 1929 3 1929 1 1928 3 l'J-29 3 19-29 2 1922 3 1930 2
19-25 3 1926 3 1928 2
1928 2
1928 3 1929 1
15 KINDERGARTEN. J, A. Trow 1929 2 B. Osman-Jones 1930 2 E. A. Cowers has been elected Head of the School for 1930—1931 with G. M. Shipley as second head.
The Staff—July 1930. RESIDENT— Miss ALEXANDER, (Senior Mistress) French. Miss GROVER, Science. Gardening, Geography. Miss DAMANT, Matron. Miss JENNINGS, Music. SISTER IRVINE. Miss DUNCAN, Classics. Miss JAMES, Mathematics. Miss CLARK, Domestic Science. Miss BROWN, Classics, Miss INGE, Art Miss MOSSE, Kindergarten. Miss ANGELL JAMES, English. Miss Coo'KE, History. Miss PRIOR, Music. Miss BART LETT, Secretary. Miss SNELL, Games, Gymnastics, Dancing. MADEMOISELLE CHAUMONNOT, French. NON-RESIDENT. THE REV. A. B. BROWNE, Divinity. MR. PULLEIN, Piano. Miss POUND, Piano, Leatherwork. MRS. HILL, Violin. MRS. WATLING. Italian. MR. CULLEY, Carpentry.
School Calendar. 1929. Sept. 20.—Beginning of Term. ,, 23.—Party to Missionary Exhibition at Devizes. Oct. 7.—Lecture on " Early Newspapers" by Mrs. Richardson. ., 12.—Party to Bath toilecitalby Bratza. ,, 14.—League or Nations Union. Children's meeting in the Cinema. Speaker, Mr. Whelen. „ 18.—Health Festival. Service and address by the Rev. A. B. Browne. ,, 19—Lecture on " Insects" by Miss Grover. ,, 23—Party to Concert in Bath. Nov. 1—Sale of Work. ,, 2—Party to Bath to Recital by Jean Sterling Mackinlay. ,, 9—Mayor's Day. Party to Installation Ceremony in Town Hull. Net Ball Cup Match v. Royal School 2nd VII. School won.
16 Nov.
9 -2nd Net ball match v. Trowbridge 1st VII. School won. Lecture ou '' London's Underground" by Miss Angell James, ,, II—Armistice Day. ,, 16—Maidless Day. Lacrosse Hatch v. Clifton Ladies. School wou. „ 21—Party to Bath for Recital by Backhaus. Dec. 4—Party to Bath to see " The Rivals." ,. 7—Party to Bath to see " She Stoops to Conquer." ,, 8—Confirmation iu the Parish Church. ,. 9 —School Certificate Examination. ,, 11—Drill Competition v. Tythertou. School wou both cups. ,, 12—Entertainment for the workmen. ,, 13—Finals of Company Net Ball. Poore won. ,, 16—Competition for Shakespeare cup. Mark Heading, Tea and Speeches. 1930. Jan. 17—Beginning of Term. ,. 18—Exhibition of water divining by Mr. Cape. ,. 22—Talk on Shantung Christian University by Mrs. Carr. ,, 25 —Lacrosse v. the Godolphin. School lost. ., 27—Lecture by Madame Andre llieder. Feb. 4—Concert by the Wayfaring Trio. ., 8—Lacrosse Match v. Clifton Ladies. School won. ,, 10—Song Recital by George Parker. ,. 15—Drill Competition v. Godolphin School. School lost. ,, 22—Company Entertainment. " A Tale of Two Cities" produced by Grosstete and Poore. „ 24—Company Entertainment. ''Hob Roy" produced by Moberly and Osmund. ,. 28—Lecture on " An Expedition to Edge Island" by Mr. A. G. Lowndes. Mar. 1—Lacrosse Match v. the Royal School. School lost. Staff Entertainment. ,, 8.—Maidless Day. B team Net Ball Match v. Tythertou 1st VII. School won. ,, 12.—Lent Service in Chapel. Address by the Rev. C. H. S. Matthews. ,, 18.—Address ou U.G.S. by Miss Braithwaite. ,, 20.—Lent Service in Chapel. Address by the Rev. G. H. S. Matthews. ,, 22.—Lecture on Greece by Miss Brown ,, 24. —Concert of Russian music. ,, 25.—Service in Chapel, Address by the Rev. E. Cross Entertainment by Chief Os-ke-non-ton. „ 26.—Lent Service in Chapel. Address by the Rev. C. H. S. Matthews. ,, 27.—Edmund Rich entertainment. April 2 — F o r m Drill Competition. Cup wou by Arts and Crafts. ",. 3.—Mark Reading. 1930. May 8.—Beginning of Term. ., 14. —Beginning of General Inspection by Board of Education. „ 29.—Ascension Day. Expedition to Sandy Lane.
17 Jane 7.—Cricket Match v. lloyal School. School won. ,, 15.—Lecture, Marlborough College. Professor Mac Bride. ,, 21.—Halt Term. Cricket Match v. Fathers. ,, 23.—Expedition to Martinsell and Avebury. ,. 24 —Visit from Elisabeth Kitsou. July a.—Service iu Chapel. Address by the Rev. F. Crosse. ., 5.—Picnic to Havernake, given by Sir J o h n and Lady Hindley. ,, 6.—Recital at Marlborough (College by John Masefield. „ 9.—Country Dancing Display. „ 10.—Tennis Match v. Oalne Ladies. School won. Tennis Match v. Tytherton. School won. ,, 12.—Tennis Match v. Bath High School. School won. Country Dancing Display. ,, 16.—Final for Junior Tennis Championship. Won by F. Bradford. ,, 19.—Cricket Match v. Boys from A. House, Marlborough. School lost. ,, 22.—Final for Fonn Tennis Couples. Cup won by Lower V. ., 2 4 . — F i n a l for Senior Tennis Championship. Won by 0. Allen. ,. 25.—Tennis Match v. Staff. Staff won. ., -28.—Mark Reading.
Examinations. July 1929-July 1930. OLD GIRLS. University College. London. Beuuington Memorial Scholarship (Craniology), IS. Kitson. London University. History Honours Class I. A. M. C. Le Mesurier. Oxford U n i v e r s i t y . Final School of English, (.-lass III. C. M. N. Cobb. Durham University. Winifred Foster Scholarship (renewed) M. P. Tailents PRESENT GIRLS. Westfield College. Vacancy : J. F. Suffriu (Classics).
CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL CERTIFICATE. (July and December, 1929) Honours—B. M. Mice (Distinction Divinity, English, History). G. M. Shipley (Distinction Italian). Pass E. J. Aduitt J. M. Bridgman M. B. Butler N. M.Cole G. E. Gee M. VV. Goodden E. A. Gowers D. I. Maxwell D. M. Osman-Joues M. B. Sheldon N. M. Williams C. M. Young
18 British Italian League. Advanced Grade, Class I. G. M. Shipley Societe Nationale des Professeurs de Frangais en Angleterre— Concours Special. Prizes. G. M. Shipley I. E. W. Heywood Concours Aleiisuel. Prizes. I E. W. Heywood M. N. E. Maiisei-gh S II. Evans-Lawrence INSTITUTE OF HYGIENE DIPLOMA, July 1930. Pass. E. J. Adnitt E K. K. Betty G. F. Fleetwood-Jones G. M. Kiiby D. M. Osmau-Joues M. B. Sheldon INSTITUTE OF HYGIENE CERTIFICATE. July 1930. Pass. C. M. Allen M. Farriugton J. M. G. Foster K. M. Hales E. O. I-Iiudley R. J(uiiier M. SI. M. McCormick NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DOMESTIC STUDIES. JUNIOR HOUSECRAFT EXAMINATION. E. J. Adnitt July 1930, Class I. C. M. A l l e n E. K. K. Betty B. Butler E. C. Hiudley D. M. Osmau-Jones M. B. Sheldon Class II. N. M. Cole B M. Gardiner M. W. Goodden D. Maxwell M. M. M. McCoraiick
PRIZE LIST. November. 1929. FORM VI HEAD OF THE SCHOOL, (given by the Ven. Archdeacon of Wilts) R. M Buck ENGLISH ESSAY, (given by the Ven. Archdeacon of Dorset) R. SI. K. Moilliet UPPER V. FORM PRIZES, (given by Mr. Dunne) G. M. Shipley ("given by Mr. Morris) B. M. Rice (given by Miss Alexander) M. W. Goodden ARTS & CRAFTS, FORM PRIZE, (given by Miss Murray) M. Farrington
19 LOWER V FORM PRIZES. (given by Mr Bodinnar)
M. E Wilson P. J. Young N. P. Chase A N. C. Churchill F. C. Leigh-Mallory
UPPER IV, FORM PHIZES, LOWER IV, FORM PRIZE, (given by Mrs H. G. Harris) FORM III FORM PRIZES, Music.
READING,
W. M. Heath K. M. Gough R. J. Maggs
(given by Miss Fanny Davies) (given by Mr. Pullein) (given by Miss Jennings) Junior Prize
B. M. Rice '. F. Fleetwood-Jones R. E. R. Wasley A. 6. M. Westaway
(given by Dr. and Mrs. Edej
G. M. Shipley G. E. Gee
DOMESTIC SCIENCE, The Madame Brichta Prize, (given by Miss Eddes) C
DRESSMAKING, (given by Mrs Dudley Matthews DRAWING.
(given by Mr. Walter RudmanJ NEEDLEWORK, (given by Mrs. J. M. Harris) LEATHERWORK, (given by Mrs Pound) CARPENTRY. Senior (given by Air Culley) Junior (given by Mr. Long) GENERAL KNOWLEDGE. Senior (given by the Headmistress) Junior NATURK STUDY, (given by Miss Groverj GARDENING, (given by Mr and Mrs. C. O Gough) PHYSICAL, Senior (given by Sir Ernest Gowers) Junior HYGIKNIC, (given by Mrs. Dunne) TKNNIS CHAMPIONSHIP, Senior (given by Sir John Hindley) Junior igiven by Mrs Duncan;
M. Farrington . F. Fleetwood-Jones E. C. Hindley E. J. Adnitt A. B M. Westaway D. D. D. Mallock B. R.Johnson M, Durst G. M Kirby A. Nettelfield J. L. Suffrin R. Matthews M E. Wilson D.Duder R M. Buck W. M. Heath IU. B. Sheldon B C. Lacon B R. Johnson
20 FRANCES GABRIEL SCHOLARSHIPS Boarders (over 15 G. M Shipley (under 15) M. E Wilson Day Girls P J. Young W. Osman-Jones K. M. Gough
Developments. 1929—1930. The most noticeable development this year has been the growth of the cloakroom. It was there to greet us on our return in September, and since then it is no exaggeration to say that it has far surpassed all the dreams of light and spaciousness we had in the days of the old cloakroom. It was long before our hands stopped searching involuntarily, but in vain, for the usual red soap, and remembered the far superior variety which now hangs above the basins. Old girls who have experienced the old cloakroom will wonder at the luxury of a cloakroom in which one may sit at ease to change one's shoes in a private compartment, without fear of having to get up to allow one's neighbour to open a locker. Old girls may shake their heads and murmur about their young days, but we know it is really only jealousy. We tried to show our gratitude to those who had worked so hard to complete the cloakroom before we came back by giving them a display of drill and dancing. The roof of the cloakroom is already proving a rival for the S. Prisca's roof for being slept on—and we have heard that Va, with its School Certificate atmosphere, provides a convenient shelter in emergencies. Our ambitions for a hard tennis court are gloriously realised. Although the wonderful new green court cannot be used for matches, it is a great boon to have a court to play on which does not indulge in dandelions, and on which the balls behave with reasonable decorum, and it is well worth the careful daily watering and rolling it receives. It is watched with tender care, and great was the horror when microscopic plants began to appear on its smooth green surface. Another change this year is that talking is allowed for half an hour at night in rooms and dormitories where there is no fear of disturbing the slumbers or would-be slumbers of those who have come to bed earlier. This is much appreciated, especially in the summer when it is light for so long, and as there is still a quarter of an hour's silence before bed.
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So year by year, and bit by bit, the school grows and develops. May it continue to do so without losing its old ideals and characteristics. M. Hort. Manners and Morals, 1929 — 1930. The Committee has met twice during the last year, and on both occasions Miss Matthews has presided. On the whole, the points raised showed more careful thought, especially in the lower forms. There were fewer requests for minor repairs, and, although no revolutionary changes were brought about, the Committee showed that it was alive to the shortcomings of the School, which were found to be especially noisiness and untidiness. But the School must remember that Manners and Morals does not end in Miss Matthews' room; a great deal more effort might be made to put the decisions of the Committee into practice. B. M. Gardiner. Half Term, November 1—4. The Prize Giving was not the cheerful gathering that it always is. How could it be when only a week earlier we had lost our dear Archdeacon ; we could only feel that it couldn't be a public ceremony. The prizes were given away quite informally the day before. When the bell went at twelve on Friday there was a rush for long lost parents, and the few who were left at School worked off their superfluous energy and half term excitement in a thrilling game of Lacrosse—Poore and Grosstete v. Moberly and Osmund which ended happily for all in a draw. But the Staff had been working very hard all the morning, and at three o'clock everything which had been collected by the energy of the Staff and parents with the assistance of the girls, was found beautifully set out in the Hall. The sellers showed themselves most expert at their trade, but not so splendid as the buyers. The results surpassed all expectations, and reached over £95, a most welcome addition to the School Scholarship Fund. On Saturday the number of people who went out with friends was large, so the few who were left at School
22
were all able to go over to Bath to hear Jean Sterling Mackinlay sing at a Pump Room concert. Those of us who had heard a performance of hers before were no less pleased at hearing her again. She had a cold, which must have made the afternoon a difficult one for her, but her audience were none the less delighted at her wonderful rendering of folk-songs. We all enjoyed the whole jaunt to Bath, and expressed our " joie de vivre-" by our own vocal efforts, which beguiled the homeward journey. But the excitement of the day was not yet ended. Sir John Hindley had provided an entertainment as appropriate to the winter term as the picnic was to the summer. The only adequate compliment which can be paid to the display of fireworks which greeted us on our return is that it was even more beautiful than last year. On Monday morning a notice appeared inviting all those who had not been invited elsewhere to a Cosmopolitan Dance in the evening, so that the first part of the morning was spent in ransacking the acting drawers, and trying to devise original " get-ups." Long before these were fully prepared everybody was packed into brakes, except the few whose courage (and energy) did not mount with occasion, and they retired to S. Prisca's kitchen, where their employment is easily imaginable. The athletes thoroughly enjoyed themselves in a paper-chase, but the superfluous subtlety of the hares caused the hounds to arrive back first. The preparations begun in the morning were hectically finished in the afternoon, and at five o'clock there arrived in the Hall the most weird selection of people from all over the world, and we seemed to have seen some of their faces before. The party opened with a wonderful display of Greek athletics by our kind hostesses; not the least amusement was caused by the appearance of Miss Damant as a most venerable Asiarch. After some other short entertainments there was dancing? and then we were treated to the most edifying spectacle of Miss Snell and Miss Bartlett, blindfolded, feeding each other with teaspoonfuls of water. We finished up with an advertisement competition, and then we tried to express our gratitude to the Staff, both for that, and for the wonderful half term, for which everyone must feel that they were chiefly responsible. Form VI.
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The following contributed to the Old Girls' Stall : — B. Chambers, E. Buszard, J. Williams, A. Savory, D. Baines, R Evans, M. Barton-Wright, R. and P. Price, A. Bradford, E. Bodinnar, J. Cooke, M. Orchard, U. Robins, J. Bridgman, P. and G- Gee, I. Telling, M. Butler, V. Newcomb, D. Kenrick, M. and J. Gould, T. Taylor, M. Hopkins, K. Brown, I Martineau, J. Hughes, D. Owen, M. Hulbert, J. Collard, C. Cobb, M. Thynne, V. Townshend, J. Ferguson, P. Hopkins, G. Dixon, M. Kendall, M. Vischer, P. Waddilove, R. Buck, G Beale, M. Bigwood, V. Bailey, F. and G. Pocock, I. Martin, M. Maundrell, E. Tench, V. Turner, D. Urwick, M. Rawlins, M. Smith, M. Cole, E. Westaway, D. Taylor, L Kirby, K. and M. Hill, M. Merrett, M. and D Trenchard, B. Ridley, B. Thompson, and Mrs. Le Mesurier. The Entertainment to the Workmen. December 12th, 1929. A feature of the school has passed away. Girls arriving at the school now will never be able to look back to the unusual daily experience of changing their stockings in the same twenty square feet as seventy-nine other people. The cloakroom scrum is no more. This we discovered when we arrived at the beginning of the term, and were astonished at the magnificence of the new Cloakroom, but we waited until Thursday, December 12th, to shew our appreciation to the men who had worked so well for us. We are very grateful to Miss Snell for having got up the short entertainment we gave them. About twenty-eight men arrived, and when they were all seated the Senior drill team, who had won the cup for us again at Tytherton the day before, went through their table. After that there were several dances, both Greek and National, which our visitors enjoyed very much. Miss Matthews, Mr. Rudman, and Mr. Blackford then made short impromptu speeches, the school and the men exchanged hearty cheers, and they then went down to dinner. Although they were not very conversational during the meal, they obviously thoroughly enjoyed it—their one regret was that they had not thought of missing their tea, so that they could have done more justice to it. After
24
dinner they joined the school in Chapel, and then they went back to the Company Room where they sang songs, which Miss Jennings accompanied. To judge by the noise they heartily enjoyed singing, and they were quite unwilling to go home. They were certainly delightful guests, and we only hope they have as pleasant memories of the evening as we have. B. M. G. Sir Frank Benson's visit to Bath. December 15th, 1929. In the Autumn term Sir Frank Benson paid his farewell visit to Bath before retiring from the stage. Of the three plays he produced part of the school was fortunate enough to see two, " She Stoops to Conquer " and the " Rivals." The two parties differed as to the merits of the plays, each upholding the one they had seen, but all agreed that a red-letter day had been added to their lives. It was thrilling sitting in the theatre in such good seats waiting expectantly for the curtain to rise. When it did our expectations were fully realized. " The Rivals " was the chosen lot of the first party. Among the characters Lydia Languish was rather disappointing, as she was not sufficiently attractive. Mrs. Malaprop was all that she should be, and committed the traditional blunders with perfect serenity. But, of course, Sir Frank Benson as Sir Anthony Absolute was the outstanding figure, and was chiefly noticeable for his admirable restraint. This was more marked as some of the other characters were inclined to overact. Having heard such thrilling accounts from the first party, the second one set out with even greater expectations When they had seen it everyone agreed that " She Stoops to Conquer" could not have been better. Again the heroine was rather disappointing, for Kate did not charm her audience as she ought to have done, but Tony Lumpkin and Mrs. Hardcastle amply made up for this slight defect. And again Sir Frank Benson outshone the rest and gave a masterly impersonation of Mr. Hardcastle. At the end of each play he made a short speech which added to our enjoyment by making us feel we were the perfect audience. Form VI.
25
Ascension Day,
1930.
Have you ever played the game where one person says a word to you, and you have to reply, without thinking, exactly what that word calls up in your mind ? If Ascension Day was said, I should immediately think of walking- along a sunlit path, with a gorgeous sense of freedom, no worry of lessons, a splendid picnic in front, with "general knowledge" safely in the background. That is the best part of Ascension Day. There are other sides to it too -the feeling of interest that first hand information gives you. Three girls had been to the Social Service Week, and they told us about that in the morning. It was funny in bits, but very spiriting too, when you heard of the fun and joy which the poor people of the mission manage to scrape from their crowded, drab lives; it showed how joyful we ought always to be in such glorious surroundings. Then there was general knowledge. All the things we ought not to have known we did know, and all the things we ought to have known we did not know —but it is like that with general knowledge. Who would have thought Cosmo Cantuar was a dancer, a singer, or a violinist ? but he was so. Why did we not realise before that Adam and Eve had discovered Relativity ? At this we worked for an hour and a half, and then got ready for dinner, and compared howlers. We started off after dinner to Sandy Lane, timehonoured by S. Mary's Ascension Day picnics. It was wonderful with an afternoon, unpunctuated by bells, to wander at your own pace through Bowood. The cuckoo was cucking, the sun came in bright patches through the leaves, some of the trees rose clear out of a blue haze of bluebells, and it was beautiful. When we got there we could bask in the sun, cool in the shade, or scramble in the woods until tea When we had it we felt like spilling a cup of tea to christen the first picnic of the year. After tea we went our several ways, and wandered back through the glowing evening, " with the satisfying feeling that our duty had been done," but what a duty ! The only thing which we did not have on that gorgeous day was Miss Matthews, but we could not but be glad that she had gone for us to the wonderful services of farewell to, and thanksgiving for, the life of Archbishop Lord Davidson. J. M. Hughes.
26
Half Term, June 21—23. At twelve o'clock on Saturday hosts of parents surged up the front path to be met by their excited daughters. Those, however, who did not go out found that Half Term was no less exciting for them A rounders match proved a sufficient outlet for our superfluous energy of the morning. Then, in the afternoon, there was the fathers' cricket match. This was the first real one we have ever had, as last year there were not enough for a full team. Though our team was beaten, everyone has agreed that it was a great success, and we hope it will become an annual institution. Half Term Monday started this year from most people's point of view at seven a.m. on the cricket field. Cricket before breakfast at half-term has now become a regular summer event; and the cricket may certainly be said to be unique, for whenever, or wherever, else have fielders been found up to the number of thirty ? Still greater excitement was caused at half-past eleven when we started off for Martinsell in three red charabancs laden with food and lemonade, which were the fruit of Miss Damant's extensive labours of the morning. The spot chosen for the picnic has been just lately discovered for the School, so that at every bend of the road we found exciting new views, and everywhere we passed seemed suitable for a picnic. When we arrived at Martinsell we realised that it was the ideal place. On seeing the height of the hill we felt that we needed sustaining before attempting the climb, so settled down to a sumptuous picnic lunch under the shade of some trees. Directly afterwards Miss Matthews read us some of Sorley's poems about the countryside round Maryborough. After a breathless race to the top of the hill, we wandered off in twos and threes to explore this new part of the downs. Although the weather threatened, it did not actually rain, and racing down again the valley felt sheltered and warm in contrast to the high wind on the downs. After a short rest we started on a new expedition, and the red charabancs came into prominence and took us to Avebury. Here we decamped and made our way to a field in which were several of the huge stones that once formed the circle at Avebury. After tea we separated and went to see the Church, parts of which are pre-Norman. Then we walked round the old rampart that surrounds the village and marks where the outside circle of stones formerly
27
stood; others found occupation in treating the stones in a way that was never intended, and scaled their rocky heights. We reached home at seven o'clock, and the day ended as it had begun with a game of cricket. We are sure that everyone has agreed that the Summer Half Term is quite the best, and we want to thank those who give us these glorious picnics year by year with such untiring energy. Form VI.
Sir John Hindley's Picnic. July 5th, 1930. Last year we were given a revelation of what a picnic can be Not content with this, our host and hostess determined to surpass themselves. Everything seemed to conspire together to help them—the sun poured down on Savernake, which has rarely looked more beautiful. As is always the case, on the drive there, in the heat of the day, the downs looked open and friendly, whereas on the drive back mysterious and suggestive. It was in every sense the School Picnic of the year, for it was the only picnic in which everyone took part, unlike form picnics, or the half-term Monday picnic, when many people are with their parents elsewhere. Three full charabancs disgorged their occupants in Savernake. Though some people decided to explore before tea, most of the School elected to play rounders. Very few succeeded in hitting past the serried ranks of fielders, though somehow several rounders were scored. We had tea a tea which beggars description in a perfect spot, right in the forest, not in a field, as last year. After tea we had various races, for each of which prizes were most generously given. Sir John's great forethought was shown in the special throwing competition for those who had hurt their ankles a few days before. After the races we refreshed ourselves by lemonade and ices never more welcome. By then it was time to leave. This we did, thoroughly contented, the more so since, in the form of a box of chocolates, we each of us carried with us a material remembrance of a gloriously happy day. M. Rice.
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Lectures 1929—1930. This year we have had a great many lectures, and the variety has been even larger than usual. Mrs Richardson is always interesting, and her lecture in the Autumn Term was thrilling. We were shown slides of old news-papers, some of them issued nearly two hundred years ago. Later, a few of us were able to see some original papers in Mrs Richardson's collection. We were very glad to hear Mr. Whelen speak again on the League of Nations and its work. He addressed the schools of Calne in the picture house; B. Gardiner took the chair, and members from six schools were on the platform. This time, Mr. Whelen stayed the night at S. Mary's, and spoke to us again next morning on the League of Nations' recent summer school. The Staff have been especially kind in lecturing to us on Saturday evenings. Miss Grpver gave a lantern lecture called "Creepies and crawlies and long-legged beasties "—these, however, turned out to be nothing more terrible than spiders, beetles and daddy-longlegs. Miss Angell-James lectured on London's Underground, which was also very interesting. In the Easter term there were no fewer than nine lectures A demonstration of water-divining by Mr. Cape introduced an original craze—every break for at least a week, parties armed with divining rods could be seen tracing real or imaginary water courses through the lacrosse field, New Buildings and even through the form rooms A few of us were able to go to a lecture by Mrs. Carr in the town. She told us about Cheloe University. Most of us have heard Madame Reider speak more than once, so we were very glad when she came to tell us about her interesting travels in Mexico. We also heard more of Dr. Schweitzer and his work in Africa. At a meeting held in the school hall in connection with the League of Nations Union, Mr. Addison gave a lantern lecture called " The Shrinking World." This dealt with the development of communications between distant parts of the earth. A most interesting and amusing lecture was given us by Mr Lowndes on his trip to Edge Island in order to search for biological specimens. He showed us beau tiful slides of Arctic scenery. We hope that he will be able to give us a course of lectures next year.
29
There were more lectures from the Staff—on plant life by Miss Grover, illustrated by many interesting slides, and on Athens in the fifth century by Miss Brown. In the latter we were shown some beautiful pictures of Greece and its people, many of them taken from vase-paintings. It was some time since we had had a speaker from the Mission district to tell us about the work going on there, so we were especially glad when Miss Braithwaite came to tell us of the new Settlement in Stafford Street. Very f e w — i f any—members of the school had ever seen a real Red Indian before we were visited by Chief Os-ke-non-ton. We were thrilled by his strange clothes and feather head dress; his songs, accompanied by the tom-tom or Miss Jennings, were beautiful, and we were completely mystified by his method of lighting a fire with sticks. In the summer term twelve of us were taken to •Marlborough College to hear Professor MacBride speak on Evolution. We were tremendously interested in what we could understand, and the lecturer made us want to find out more about this difficult subject. Elisabeth Kitson's visit caused great excitement. She told us wonderful stories of her expedition under Mr. Leakey for exploring cave dwellings in Kenya, of skeletons, buried with their knees bent up to their chins, of strange greenish arrow barbs, fifty thousand years old. She told of wild animals, of wonderful escapes from the effects of drought and bad water, of a six week's lorry journey to South Africa along unbelievably bad roads. She had photographs of all these, and spoke of them in such a natural way that it was impossible not to be thrilled. R. Moilliet. On July 6th some of us had the very good fortune to hear the Poet Laureate give a recital of his own works in the Memorial Hall at Marlborough. It was an experience we shall not easily forget The strikingly forceful and graphic descriptions, the rhythm and beauty of the words, and the thrill of the extracts from " Dauber " "Reynard the Fox" and "Right Royal"-, especially when read by one who knew how they should be read— these all combined to make one of the most exciting hours of the term. Those of us who were already acquainted with Masefield's poetry went away with a new vision of its power, and we were all filled with a determination to read more for ourselves. M. Hort.
30
Elisabeth Kitson's Visit. I have known Elisabeth Kitson by name because of the board in the hall where after her name appears " Anthropological Tripos." It was because of this "Anthropological Tripos" that she came to be, in my mind, a sort of glorified blue stocking. Even her letters, though they certainly gave nothing to confirm this idea, could not entirely disperse the idea of somebody very learned. But then there was the fact of her having been out in Africa. That meant she would be sunburnt; and they had had a lot of digging to do, and digging in hot weather is apt to make one thin; so my picture was complete. She was rather tall, and gaunt and sunburnt, with a high forehead and spectacles. I must say her letters did rather shake this image, but, once established, these imaginary people are not easy to destroy. When Elisabeth Kitspn came down in person I was not sorry to see my imaginary her collapse. It was a relief that this great person was dressed like any civilized person, that she had not got horn-rimmed spectacles, and that she was neither gaunt nor sunburnt. She did not want to give a formal lecture, and so we sat round Gabriel and she told us some of her experiences, and showed us photographs and even some of the little stone blades and barbs that they had found. It seems that East Africa had cycles of different climates, periods of rain and periods of drought alternating. During the periods of drought it was uninhabited, and during these periods layers of earth sifted up. Then, when the period of rain began, the people returned and settled, only to disappear again when the dry period returned Sometimes between one layer of civilization, if it may be called such, and another, there is a layer as deep as twenty feet, so that to get back to the link between man and ape may only be a matter of patient digging to find the lowest layer of inhabitation. The interesting part about the skeletons discovered is that they are not of the negro type. They are the same type as the European peoples, and must have moved north across the isthmus of Gibraltar, or by the land between Sicily and North Africa and colonized Europe, thousands of years before Europeans colonized Africa. Their implements were made of volcanic rock which can be chipped off in flakes and polished to make a sharp edge. Some of them were so thin that they were almost trans-
parent. The smallest of these were tiny pointed blades, and were found arranged in two parallel rows with the points facing obliquely outwards, so that they must have been the barbs of arrows. The place where most of the remains were found was on the rubbish heap of the settlement, which makes one wonder if people thousands of years hence will be trying to find out the use of sardine tins and bits of broken bottles. The account of the excavations, however, was by no means the whole of Elisabeth Kitson's talk. The work was made thrilling by the difficulties connected with it. The life at the camp was by no means easy, but when three of the party were set down to dig a cave many miles from the base without any means of getting back unless they were fetched from there, it cannot have been very pleasant, and then there was a scarcity of water and food, and the heat and hard work. 1 he expedition ended by four of the party motoring, by lorry, from Nairobi to Johannesburg, a journey which took them about six weeks. The most striking thing about Elisabeth was that she did not gloss over the hardships but she was so amazingly cheerful about it all and made it all so thrilling that I, for one, felt that it would be worth putting up with them, and that evening in bed I built my castles in Spain and they all turned out to be tents in East Africa. G. M. Shipley. Music of the Year. This has been a year of most unusually interesting musical pleasures. Apart from the joy of hearing others make real music, there is a certain inspiration carried into our own efforts after hearing a Backhaus or a George Parker. A never-failing characteristic of the autumn term are the parties taken by Miss Jennings to Bath for the Pump Room concerts. Backhaus' playing, especially his rendering of Chopin, was quite a revelation to some of us Bratza, also, played brilliantly and with great variety. On Confirmation Sunday Dr. Wood most kindly sang carols to us, and increased our knowledge of this quaint form of Christmas music. In the spring term we were given another concert by the Wayfarers' Trio. Miss Spooner always makes their
82
performances doubly enjoyable by explaining beforehand how to listen to the works they play. The excellency of the Trio's playing is even more striking when one considers that they are so busy in other spheres that they can spare little time for music. Our admiration andwonder increase every time they play to us. Mr. George Parker sang to us most wonderfully. W^e were especially impressed by his exceptional control of a truly glorious voice. His singing of Schumann gave us a great sympathy with the German language, though under the influence of his English songs our own seemed infinitely superior. We had the experience of another beautiful voice in the singing of Chief Os-ke-non-ton, who sang different Mohawk songs We ended a term rich in music with hearing Mendelssohn's " Hymn of Praise " by the Calne Musical Society. The performance was of the high standard we have learnt to expect from them. Ann Wood, who came to visit us in June, sang to us one evening. Stanford's " A Soft Day ", which she has sung to us several times, was a special favourite. Later in the term a few people were given the great privilege of hearing Bach's B Minor Mass, beautifully rencfcered by the Maryborough Choral Society, conducted by Mr. Hill. Particularly striking was Bach's unusual setting of the Sanctus. On the last evening of the Christmas term, by singing carols at the Workhouse, we started what we hope may become a tradition. During the year we have studied Russian and modern English composers. We are immensely grateful to the musical staff; they give unsparingly of their time and thought, not only in regular music work, but also by helping us in the Musical Society, and in giving us gramophone concerts every Sunday evening. M. Rice. S. Mary's Repertory Company. Some people may be surprised to hear that a repertory company has been for the last year a recognised feature of the school In the course of one year the Staffonians have three times presented entirely original dramas A display of Greek athletics of a remarkably high standard was their first production. Therein we saw amazing feats of archery, disc and javelin throwing, and these prepared the way for the piece de resistance—a chariot race.
Four complete dramas were the next stupendous production These included harassing tragedies and hair-raising melodramas, and showed the exceptional adaptability of the company After the manner of the cinema, many events of topical interest flashed before our eyes in their third performance. We held our breath while Bradman scored his hundreds, and Fraulein Aussem sprained her ankle in slow motion. There were gasps of sympathy as each successive staff failed to get a reading badge. We offer the Repertory Company our sincerest thanks, and wish them a successful season next year Form VI. The Library, 1929—1930. The Library has received various gifts this year for which we are very grateful. Lord Lansdowne, Mrs. Clarence, and Mary and Dorothy Wheeler have given books, and we are proud to possess Archdeacon Bodington's own desk, The new shelves which were added below the existing ones during the Christmas holidays provide much needed space. Different girls in VI and Upper V are now responsible for keeping the different sections tidy ; this system works well, and results in a more intelligent orderliness Like most other departments of S. Mary's, the Library has felt the lack of Miss Alexander's untiring care. It is impossible to calculate how much time she has spent on the Library in various ways. She always knows what books are most worth getting ; she manages the accounts and the catalogue ; she sticks in the illustrations when they get loose. She even made a new Fiction catalogue while she was away. When Inspectors and others congratulate us on our Library, we feel that they ought rather to congratulate us on our Librarian.
M. I B.
Shakespeare Cup. It was more difficult than ever to judge this year, for though the standard had risen throughout, the better ones were not so good as they have been, and there was no outstanding performance.
84
LOWER V. Richard II
Act III, Scene IV. Act IV, Scene I. This form won the Sir John Hindley cup for a very intelligent, dignified interpretation They gained the first place partly because of their power to hold the audience the interest was sustained throughout. Though there was little opportunity for by-play, what there was was excellent. D. Duder, as King Richard, played a very difficult part with great restraint There were three words mispronounced. Others deserving commendation were N. Chase as Aumerle, E. Mansergh as Northumberland, P. Clarence as the Queen and S. E. Lawrence as the Gardener. A. Westaway as Bolingbroke was rather disappointing, as she was not so clear as the others, and rather too fast. H. Ward as the Bishop of Carlisle was inclined to be too wooddep. REMOVE. A Midsummer Night's Dream. This form won the Junior cup for throwing themselves so wholeheartedly into their scene. There was not a dull moment, all the by-play was so good -M. Fry as Snout deserves high commendation. Not a detail had been neglected, especially in preparing to face the Duke They were word perfect. A. Wood as Bottom was very good, as was also D. Leveson as Quince. FORM VI. King John. Act II. They chose a very difficult scene, and, largely because of the lack of opportunity for action failed to grip their audience. The scene felt rather lifeless, though stately and intelligent. There were no outstanding performances, except for M. Goodden as King Philip, who is commended for her enunciation, and R. Moilliet as Philip the Bastard, who gave a subtle interpretation of a very difficult part, G. Shipley, as King John, did not lose herself sufficiently, and G. F. Jones, as Blanche, was rather inaudible UPPER IV. & LOWER IV. A Midsummer Night's Dream. These two forms were bracketed together for a very good performance. Upper IV. are commended for their grouping, for their restraint, and for their very clear enunciation, all
were good in this, with the exception of F. Moilliet. W. Heath, as Bottom, was very clear. The details were well thought out, even to the music, while the prologue was especially well written There were two prompts. LOWER IV. P. Reade, as Bottom, was outstanding. M. Long is commended for her good by-play. B. Aldrick, as Quince, was very good. P. McCormick, as Titania, was rather lacking in life, as was A. Nettelfield as Puck. There were two prompts. UPPER V, Two Gentlemen of Verona. Act III, Scene I. Act IV, Scenes I fi, II ActV, Scene I. Their prologue was not up to standard, and though there were some outstanding performances—D. Champain as Valentine, and J. Hughes as Launce,—the level was rather low throughout. ARTS & CRAFTS. Much Ado About Nothing. Act IV, Scenes I & II. This form chose far ioo difficult a scene in the Church Scene : the gestures were forced, and the interpretation poor. The Dogberry scene was rather better. E.M.M. EM.A. M.AJ. Reading- Competition. The standard reached this year was very satisfactory. Osmund easily came out first, and is specially to be congratulated on reaching 61 points ; last year their total was 32. The points were scored as follows :— Edmund Poore. Grosstete. Moberly. Rich. Osmund. B. Gardiner M . Hort BADGES B. Combes M. Goodden E Gowers R. Moilliet D Duder G Shipley M.. Young ilO) L. Suffrin M.. Rice J Hughes D. Champain A. Wood F. Bradford
CLASS I.
N Chase
B. Brooke P Clarence P Mackey
E. Minnis
A. Nettelfield W . Heath N Williams
S Lunt
C. Mallory M. Farrington P. JlcCormick M McCormick B. Sheldon
(6) F. Moilliet CLASS II. N,. Cole G Combes R. Matthews (3) P. Ede J Young
Total
16
52
45
61
41
86
Dr. Ede, who again judged for the badges, reports as follows:— " The number that reached the final stage this year was certainly a record—eleven. But quality was not sacrificed for quantity, the level reached being as good as, if not better than, in previous years. The first prize went to M. Rice, while D Champain, who ran her very close, was awarded the second prize. Only two failed to reach badge standard, and both of them should try again next year. A. Wood, M. Young, L. Suffrin, D. Duder, J. Hughes, E. Gowers and M. Hort were all awarded badges, and the judge was glad he had not to place them in order of merit," C. Ede.
Grosstete Company. This year Grosstete has not shown so much determination as in former years, and they must pull themselves together and make a greater effort in the future. Company duties have been the greatest fault as they have not been very conscientiously performed ; individuals have failed to realize that the prestige of the Company depends upon the keenness shown in this direction. D. Champain, R. Matthews and D. Leveson have, however, worked hard and deserve special credit. We have not been quite so successful as usual in the games' line, as we were badly beaten by Moberly in the company Lacrosse, though we were second in the Skipping Competition, and u n f o r t u n a t e l y we were beaten by Osmund in the cricket finals. We again joined with Poore to produce " A Tale of Two Cities " as our Company play in the Lent Term. This, we feel, was a success owing to the keenness of everyone, especially the crowds, who acted admirably on the great occasion ; we only hope that the audience enjoyed the performance as much as the actors did. No one won a reading badge this year, but we must congratulate M. Rice and D. Champain on winning the first and second prizes offered by Dr. Ede for former badge winners. We are losing five people from the Company this year who leave their very best wishes for the Company in the future. M. Rice has been elected Head for next year, and M. Goodden " sub." G. Kirby.
87
Moberly Company. This year Moberly has nothing concrete to show for their efforts, as the lacrosse shield, reading picture and skipping cup have not fallen to their lot. This fact, however, is not due to lack of keenness, as the whole Company have worked at games and reading very zealously. In lacrosse we started off with wonderful success, as in the first match we vanquished Grosstete, who have held the shield for the last five years. In the finals the team put up a good fight, but could not win through against the very strong Poore team. U n f o r t u n ately, in skipping and cricket our teams did not combine as well as in lacrosse. May they meet with better success next year! In February we joined with Osmund and produced " Rob R o y " as a company play. Everyone worked splendidly to help to make it a success, and the younger members showed that they were a valuable part of the company, just as much as did the elder ones. Those who painted the scenery are especially to be congratulated, This excellent piece of work ought to serve for many future plays. As regards our monthly duties, here there has been less enthusiasm than over games : but every member of the Company does not entirely lack keenness in this respect. Special words of commendation must be given to J. Foster, B. Mitchell, S. McRae and E. Waller who have all helped the Company by their zealous work. Those who are leaving this year give the Company their very best wishes for good luck in the f u t u r e . It will be led by E. Gowers (Head) and J. Foster (Sub). L. Suffrin.
Osmund Company. We hope that the audience enjoyed " Rob Roy," the play we produced with Moberly in the Lent Term, as much as we did. Everyone was very keen in working for it, but we feel that those who so unselfishly gave up their time to making scenery and stage properties deserve special thanks. We are very proud that for the first time on record we have won the Reading Competition. I feel we deserved it, the standard of our team was very high, and if only they could learn not to be overcome by stage-fright at the
88
critical moment we should have done better still. Also for the first time we have won the Company cricket. Both games were good, especially the second in which the result was so unexpected. But the Company must be careful that noticeable achievements do not make them neglect their duties, which are far more important than any competitions. All through the year the work has been done most concientiously, though towards the end of the term there have been one or two exceptions. It would be a great pity if they were to spoil the spirit of the Company. G. Shipley has been elected Head for 1930, with J. Hughes as " sub." B. Gardiner.
Poore Company. This Company has been very keen all through the year, and practically everyone has worked hard to keep the school tidy. It is unfortunate that the abundant energy shown at the beginning of the week is inclined to wane at the end, and next year we must aim at preserving our enthusiasm all through. M. Farrington has been an invaluable sub. and has set a very high standard for the whole Company. M. Ogle has been reliable, and N. Philips and A. Carver have been noticeably keen. A great deal of enthusiastic rehearsing went towards our production of the "Tale of Two Cities" with Groostete. It makes a tremendous difference to the success of the Company play when every single person is interested, and we are particularly pleased with our revolutionary crowd who put so much " go" into their parts We were very successful in games, and managed to win the lacrosse shield, and also Miss Goodrich's Skipping Cup, which was competed for for the first time. In the Spring Term we won the Spelling Cup. We did not do so well in the Reading Competition, but M. Young is to be congratulated on winning her badge. The others all practised hard under M. Hort's energetic coaching and should do batter next year, Best of luck to the Company in all its f u t u r e activities. M. Farrington has been elected Head for next year, M. Hort " sub." B. Sheldon.
89 Edmund Rich. It is the result of a great deal of hard work on the part of all the members ofthe Company, that Edmund Rich has held up its head much better than in former years, especially in games, It was only by one goal that we failed to win the Company net-ball match, and we managed to reach the semi-finals of the lacrosse, But alas ! the spelling and reading competitions have not been such a success, but this is not the fault of slackness, as much keen work has been put into these subjects, especially by the younger members who find it so difficult to read and spell correctly. The parents' entertainment, which was given in the Spring Term, was a great success, chiefly owing to the tremendous amount of work put into it by the Staff. They were indefatigable, especially with regard to the charming little plays that the Kindergarten and III Form acted. Miss Inge is to be congratulated upon the realistic appearance of the cock and the tree I think that the parents thoroughly enjoyed the performance. It is to be hoped that the Company will continue to improve and accomplish great things in f u t u r e years. Betty Butler has been elected Head of the Company for next year.
N. M. Cole.
Lacrosse, 1929—1930. The standard reached during the year throughout the School was not really high enough, and although there was much keen practice in spare time, catching and picking up on the run in a game was on the whole weak, and must be aimed at at a higher speed to be of any effect in a game. The team played with great determination and keenness, but the chief weakness lay in the lack of shooters, where more confidence was needed in running straight for goal and making a hard low shot. Passing ahead of a running player, short quick passes and interchanging between the Homes are points to be practised a great deal in team work There was some very good combination between the Defences during the latter part of the year. Owing to the weather we only played four matches in the season, two of which we won against the Clifton
40
Ladies, but were beaten by the Godolphin and The Royal School, Bath. There are some very promising players in the middle and lower school, who, with practice, should do great things next year. E, Gowers has been elected Captain.
TEAM. G. P. Lacon* Ft. N. Cole* C.Pt. M. Young* 3. Man. B Sheldon* C. C. Gale R.A. A Westaway L.A. M McCormick L.D. D. Champain R.D. J. Hughes* 3. H. G. Kirby* 2. H. E. Gowers l.H. M. Rice H. Ward and M. O^le also played foe the team. *=Colours. G. Kirby, (Captain.) Netball, 1929 — 1930. During the last season there was some very good play in the 1st and 2nd VII's, and at times a high standard was reached ; there was also some much more intelligent play among the juniors. The great weakness throughout the School was the lack of shooters. With the exception of those in the teams no one showed much promise, and not enough practising was done, except by some members of Edmund Rich. The teams combined very well at times, when quick, neat passing was to be seen. Players were quick on the ball, and the catching on the whole was good, but passing was often wild, as the ball was thrown before another player was free to receive it. The 1st VII played only one match, the Cup match against the Royal School, which was won by 17 goals to 12, and which was a thoroughly good game. The ^nd VII beat Trowbridge, and " B" team beat Tytherton, both games being rather wild at times. Company matches were played in the Spring term, and some good play was to be seen, and the form matches showed much better play than usual. With hard practice
41
the teams should do well next season. J. Hughes has been elected Captain for next year.
TEAMS. 1st VII. G.S. B Johnson A. N. Cole* A.C. A. Westaway* C. S. McRae D.C, M. Young* D. B. Sheldon* G.D. M. McCormick*
G.S. A. A.C. C. D.C. D. G D.
* = Colours.
2nd VII. C. Gale J. Young E. Cowers G. Kirby P Lacon M. Farrington J. Hughes
B. Sheldon (Captain). The Hard Court Tennis Fund. This Fund owed its inauguration to Rachel Buck's father. We little thought than when he started it in July, 1929, we should be playing the following May on a magnificent Fernden green court. We are most grateful to all those who have made this possible, and especially to the Governors who have paid the major part of the total cost (£184). The court is in an ideal place, to the north of S. Prisca's, and is most delightfully sheltered. The full list of donations is as follows:— £ s d. Mr. Buck 10 0 0 Mr. Wasley 8 ii 0 Lady Hindley 20 0 0 M r . Reade 5 0 0 Miss Matthews 2 2 0 Dr, Ede 1 I 0 Sir John Hindley 10 0 0 S i r Henry Farrington 2 2 0 Lady Wilson 3 3 0 Form Collections — Form VI. 3 17 6 Upper V . 1170 Arts and Crafts 2 10 0 Remove 1 10 0 Lower V . 4 1 0 Upper IV. 1 19 0 Lower IV. 12 0 Further donations 111 6 £74
9 0
42
Tennis 1930. At the beginning of the term the tennis was not nearly up to the usual standard, the chief fault being that everyone was so slow on their feet, and, consequently, had to hit the ball on the run, or in difficult positions, The play improved steadily however, and the last match showed the best play of the season among the team. First services are generally good, but second services are very weak, and give strong opponents a chance for a hard return. Those members of the team who try to send a hard second service give too many double faults at present. Forehand drives are the strongest strokes, but might be placed better. C. Allen drives hard, placing well at times, and deserves her colours though she is rather slow on her feet. Backhands are rather weak, and are ' put' rather than ' driven', and net play still needs to be practised hard. We are very fortunate in having a board to practise against, and also a beautiful hard court, which can be used soon after rain, and so enables us to get extra practice The 1st VI won two matches, beating the Calne Ladies, and also Bath High School for the first time. We lost to the Staff, however, by four games. The ' B ' team, playing a match with two couples, beat Tytherton. There are some promising juniors in the school, and they made more use of the board than most of the seniors, to great advantage. If everyone concentrates on quick moving about the court, and also takes great care of each stroke, especially early in the season, there should-, be good teams in the next few years. E. Gowers has been elected captain for next year. M. B. Sheldon. MATCHES. Calne Ladies. Won 101-62 (Here). Tytherton. 2nd IV v. their 1st. Won 48—10 (Here) Bath High School. Won 72 52. (Here) Staff. Lost 52-48. 1st VI. 2nd IV. *B. Sheldon B. Adnitt *C. Allen M. McCormick M. Rice J. Hughes D. Duder D. Hill
43
E. Gowers E. Betty.
* = Colours.
C. Allen won the Senior, F. Bradford the Junior, Championship. Cricket,
1930.
FIXTURES.
S. Mary's v. Royal School II-Won, S. Mary's v. Fathers—Lost. S. Mary's v. Boys from "A" House, Marlborough—Lost. S. Mary's Junior Team v. Boys' School—Scratched. S. MaryVv. Boys' Secondary School II—Scratched.
FIRST XI. J. Hughes* M. Ogle M. Rice* B. Sheldon* A. Westaway* B. Wasley S. Mc.Rae P. Lacon E. Gowers M. Young M. Goodden M McCormick
Deep Point Deep Cover Point 2nd Slip 1st Slip Wickets Long leg Square leg Mid off Mid on also played
Bowler Bowler Bowler Bowler Bowler
Bowler
* = Coloui-s.
The cricket of the team this year has been marked by a distinct improvement in bowling and fielding. Two or three of the team suddenly developed a capacity to bowl, which has proved most useful It should be remembered, however, that length is of more importance than speed. M. Young, B. Sheldon and A. Westaway have maintained a particularly high standard of fielding throughout the year, though the whole team is quick and reliable. J Hughes has been a very reliable bowler and fielder. Batting leaves much to be desired; though several of the team have improved tremendously, all seem incapable of dealing with strange bowling, and fail to do themselves justice in matches. B. Sheldon and A. Westaway each played one very good innings, while J. Hughes, M. Ogle and B. Wasley have made useful scores. We have been very much encouraged by Mr. Wollen, who has
•
44
most kindly given a bat and a ball to be awarded respectively to the batsman with the highest average and the best fielder. It was disappointing for the juniors that their match was scratched. They practised hard before the match, and several of them had been very keen all the term ; they show promise for future teams. The Company cricket matches, as representative of the cricket of the school as a whole, showed energy and enthusiasm. If school matches were played in the same spirit (with a little more style, it is true!) we might even aspire to beat the Fathers next year. M. Rice. We are all very grateful to Miss Snell and Miss Fletcher for their valuable and untiring coaching throughout the year. G. Kirby. B. Sheldon. M. Rice Drill, 1929—1930. There have been three competitions since the begining of the school year. In December against Tytherton for a Senior and a Junior cup ; in February the Senior team against Godolphin, and in April the Form drill competition. S. Mary's again won the Senior and regained the Junior cup from Tytherton. The Senior team did good controlled work throughout—the Junior team was alert, but not quite as finished as the Seniors. They should do well next year. At Salisbury the school lost the Godolphin cup by three marks, the winning team gaining 73%. Miss Spafford, who again judged the Competition, was pleased with the work of both teams, and gave us the following criticism : " Both the vaulting and the marching and running have improved from last year. The climbing and somersaults were disappointing, but the balance work good. The carriage of both teams was very good, and there was a great improvement in the standard of the unseen table." Although we lost the cup the team gained a great deal from working at a most interesting table, and enjoyed the competition very much.
45 Miss Fletcher very kindly judged the Form competition in April. The cup was won by Arts and Crafts and Remove with 78%, Lower IV being second with 68%. All the Forms did keen work, the winners being especially controlled and rhythmical. B. Sheldon won the sergeant's cup, with seventeen marks out of twenty. We are most grateful to Miss Fletcher for judging, and for her very helpful criticisms. A. Snell. The Skipping Competition. The skipping competition this year was most interesting to watch. ' Afgreat deal of the table set was entirely new since last year, and the standard of skipping has noticeably improved. The point which, as Miss Matthews remarked, was most apparent in all companies was the lack of teamwork, which spoilt the rhythm and effect of many of the items. The music introduced with the intention of setting and helping the time was not in every case suited to the step. Grosstete had chosen suitable music, but the team did not always follow it; Poore's rhythm was definitely good, and their accompanist played well. The general standard of Single and Double skipping was good. The combination of Double, Single and Double through was shown best by Poore, the other companies not keeping the rhythm well here. On the whole the workswith single rope and turners was good. In some cases the turners were not helpful, as they stood too close to each other, and did not turn evenly. Running in in two's was generally spoilt by the start. Grosstete combined well in this Running in with own rope when done well was most effective; lEdmund Rich were most successful here. Pas de Basques also were good. On the whole the " own step or dance" was too complicated, and there was a great lack of teamwork. Some individuals did excellent skipping, both light and neat, especially M. Gale, J. Alexander and A. Nettelfield. A. Conybeare was commended for her sense of rhythm. We are very much looking forward to next year's competition as the teams have now a much better idea of their aims. The company leaders also realize what possibilities lie before them in the way of arrangement, music and teamwork. We do congratulate the teams and
46
accompanists on their hard work, and shall hope for great things next year. The scores were as follows ; Poore winning the cup so kindly given by Miss Goodrich. 1. Poore 2. GrosstSte 3. Moberly 4 S Osmund *' \ Edmund Rich A. Snell. Things I shall remember. Coming to school for the first time is the greatest adventure in one's life. Before you go you hear people round you discussing someone and saying, " Oh, well, you see, he went to such-and-such a school," and that seems to explain all the mysteries in his character or career; so you learn that the school you are going to is going to give you, whether you want it or not, something which will stick to you all through life. Then everyone you meet, older people whose school days are far behind, when they hear you are going to school, smile quietly, and say, " Ah, I remember when I was at school. . . ." and perhaps, if you are not too young, or too much engrossed in the purchase of school clothes, you ask yourself how you will complete that sentence in years to come. The first thing a new girl is sure to feel on coming to school is the thrill of being entirely surrounded by people of her own age. There are Staff and prefects about, but they do not seern to have much part in her life ; what she thinks of those in her own Form, and, still more, what they think of her, is much more important. When I settled down, and got to understand the atmosphere of school, what excited me most was the long list of laws which no one ever talked about, but which were far more inviolable than the ones like " You mustn't swing on the bars," which " School Mothers " religiously told their daughters. No one would explain why there were such laws, but somehow every New Girl soon came to understand them' In five vears at school, one's outlook changes. For instance, walks, which once were only enjoyed when there was a chance of vaulting gates or walking the pipe over the canal, become a very different matter, and the trouble
47
with the walk after Church is found to be that it is too short to get properly into Bowood, or on to the ridge of hill by Bremhill, not that it lasts " a whole hour." Walks depend a great deal on your companions, for if they wish to be playing games everything is spoilt, and the walks I shall remember longest in every detail, from the sky to the flowers, have been with people who did not seem to notice the glorious views we were passing, but passed by everything at the same steady pace Picnics are, of course, on a plane by themselves, partly from being longer, but mostly from being on newer ground. For the time the rest of the school fades into the background, and does not seem to be connected with us, but, if there was any problem presented to us by it, which had worried us before, we find somehow, withou our knowing or asking them, the wind and the trees have told us a much more satisfactory answer than we would have found for ourselves by any amount of thinking. There are so many things which seem impossible to forget that it is impossible to mention them all, but the music of the wonderful organ, of concerts here and in' Bath, and, above all, of the feeling of others round you finding treasures from it for themselves, is a pleasure never to be forgotten. I shall never forget the lessons in which Mr. Pullein, saying all the time that the Music Room piano is so good for practising because if you can get tone out of it you can get it out of anything, showed me the beauty of Bach's music which makes men brave in the darkest hours of their lives. These are but a few things I have mentioned, and, perhaps, in a few years time I would place others higher than them School time is for looking forward, not back. B. M. G. Sleeping on the Roof. Sleeping out of doors is an experience which does not seem until now to have come my way, and so fortunately until a few weeks ago I did not realise what I have missed by sleeping within four walls all my life. The only disadvantage of discovering the delights of sleeping out is the queer feeling of suffocation and imprisonment which assails one when one sleeps indoors again. {(Once I slept indoors after having had two or three nights " sous la belle etoile" and suddenly discovered that for some time I had been gazing at the ceiling trying to imagine stars in it.
48
Personally I was extremely fortunate in my first night out. When we came up at 10 o'clock the sky was clear, and a wonderful sunset flamed across it, facing us, with the first star shining just where the orange met the blue. It is an amazing feeling to lie in bed and watch the sky getting darker, and stars faintly peeping out one by one, and to feel that there is absolutely nothing between you and them but an incredible number of miles of atmosphere ; and also that the twinkles you see now were probably made ages ago; and that probably those tiny specks of flickering light are greater than the world, and see the world as a tiny star —but by the time you have come to these astounding conclusions you have thought yourself to sleep. It is glorious waking for a second in the night and looking up at a sky full of stars. It is thrilling, too, to wake in the morning with a cool wind on your face, and the sun bright over everything—somehow it is much easier to get up when one has been sleeping out! One night, at about 2 o'clock, we woke up to rain. I don't know about the others, but personally I did not •realise for a long time all that the fact'of rain meant. I only knew that I rather liked the feeling of cool, light drops on my face; but soon I began to realise the fact that my bed-clothes were getting wet, and had to struggle along with a mattress which seemed to carry me rather than be carried by me, down stairs every board of which screamed and shouted reproaches at me. But I think even that nightmare of a journey to what seemed an airless and extraordinarily small room was worth while; I do not think I shall ever forget the feeling of the soft, cool raindrops coining invisibly down through the grey darkness. M. H. Sunday at School It is the absolute contrast of Sunday with the rest of the week which makes the day so attractive at school. It is certainly very different at home also, but in a parson's household it is the most strenuous day of the week, and frequently brings disappointment and discouragement. At school the day is quiet and peaceful, there are no lessons to worry about, or games to take up our attention. We are free to think, and are helped to think, about the really important things. Sunday helps us to start the week freshly, with our minds balanced, and
4!)
seeing things in proportion. In a way it is a very homely day, and yet it is easier to " be good " on Sunday at school than at home. We are different people on that day, rather nicer people perhaps, because we are thinking of our home people instead of ourselves, as we are apt to do all the rest of the week. First of all, breakfast is later, which means that everyone is in their best temper, and conversation is not m considered a painful necessity as it is by some people on ' week days. The short Chapel after breakfast helps even those who have not been to early Church to remember that it is Sunday. The arrangement for making beds after breakfast is always a blessing, for the time spent in making two beds one week is quite worth the free time on the next week There is little to say about the Church service, though it is the most important event of the day. There cannot be anyone in the school who does not feel how lucky we are to have such a beautiful Church and wonderful organ. The walks after Church should be very enjoyable, and 'frequently are, especially when we have the privilege of going in twos; but somehow, perhaps because we caught the odour of our dinner when we dropped our prayer books at school, I seem to remember times when our appetites were almost overpowering, and a neighbouring stile looked more inviting than the dusty road, or the crowded walk by the canal Everyone looks forward to the 2 o'clock reading on Sunday, there are many poems and essays which we have learnt to love, which otherwise we might never have known. Letter writing plays a great part in Sundays at school, and probably this habit will help us all our life. It is extraordinary what seemingly uninteresting things interest parents, in fact they never find anything dull in one's letters. It is really great fun writing home, and it is fun reading the letters at home afterwards. It is a significant fact about Sunday evening Chapel that, although it is optional, everyone seems to come practically always. It is so much more intimate than Church, a fact which appeals to most of us, in spite of the fact that the sermon seems to apply to us individually and we often feel terribly guilty. Besides this, it is our own service, for we choose the hymns and practise them ourselves.
50
The rest of Sunday is very quiet, and we are quite free. It is a special day for friends, only the difficulty is to keep from gossiping. Everyone knows the sight of the lacrosse field on Sunday evening's; the school seems to have divided into twos and to be walking round. One joy of the evening for many people is gramophone after supper in the winter. Music seems to be a suitable end for the day. I think that among the things I shall remember of school all my life will be the Sundays I have spent there. Some of the talks I have had, the discoveries I have made, and the quiet time for thought and reading, especially during thej Summer term when it is possible to get away from the house with a rug and book, and lie in the sun or the shade all the evening. N. M. W.
School Walks. When one was small one always connected " walks " with a long " croc," and imagined oneself clad in a mackintosh and invariably carrying an umbrella. Walks in those days seemed inexpressibly dull, and although one might go to interesting places, it never seemed so much fun going in a crowd as it would have been in a four, and one gazed with envious eyes at fours starting off briskly across the fields, while you waited in the Hall for the What a joy it was to be privileged ! and the novelty of the first privileged walk ! and although there were no '' boards " to sail in the canal as in past times, one felt no lack of amusement. It is perfectly true that in after years it is not the games one remembers playing, but the walks ; one cannot pick out one game of tennis and remember the people one played;! with, but one can always pick out a walk, and invariably remember who ones companions were. And years afterwards they are remembered as though they had happened yesterday. Once, in the winter, on Sunday morning we went off to the downs. Snow had been lying for several days, and when we started it was still quite thick, but the sun was shining, the sky was blue, and by the time we reached the golf links the snow was melting. Everything seemed very still, as it always does in cold weather when the
51
birds are too cold and hungry to sing. The only sound we could hear was the caw of rooks in the clump of trees just above us. When we turned back the snow had gone, and it seemed unbelievable that an hour before we had left a white world behind us. Then there were walks nearer home, into the heart of Bowood for instance, which might have been miles away in the back-blocks, one seemed so far from any habitation. There one sat on a stile and watched hares and partridges so tame that they came within a few feet, and rabbits bobbing up and down quite unconcerned by the fact that there were four human bodies watching them. One Saturday afternoon we went to Maud Heath's monument. When we arrived the sky was beginning to blacken, as we were watching we suddenly saw, away in the distance, something that looked like a sheet of flame, almost as though a mile of country were on fire ; it was some time before we realized that it was the sun, which we could not see, breaking through a cloud in the sky. At first it was almost terrifying; black dingy-looking clouds, and then this sudden light. The downs were undoubtedly the most favourite place for walks, and it seemed a pity that they were too far for games-time walks. On Thursdays and Saturdays it was glorious to take one's tea or supper, and to lie, shoes and stockings off, in a tree where one could see for miles ; or, if one were less ambitious, lying on one's back, gazing at the sky and listening to the larks, so high up that they were almost out of sight. Walks, I am convinced, are an essential to ones development in more ways than one; they are also conducive to thought, Many were the discussions we had, on religion, on art, on everything, discussions which were entirely helpful, because they made us understand other people's points of view, and helped to develop our own opinions, and to get a right outlook. Long walks are an anti-toxin for gossiping, one gets right away from school and the pettiness of outlook to which we are prone; there is time to think and talk of other things, time to realize how big the world is, and how many big things there are to discuss and try to understand. Surely, too, walks are valuable for the joy they give at the time, not less than for the memories they leave behind.
G. F. J.
52
Presents to the School. For the Chapel. "Michael Hussey Organ Fund." Miss Damant, F. Groves, V. Turner, E, Kitson, Mrs. Wasley, Mrs. Mansergh, R. Hughes, Confirmation Candidates, December 1929. Flowers. Dr. and Mrs. Ede (every week), B. Butler, Miss Damant, M. de L. Smith, Mrs. Leveson, Miss M. Ferris. Prayer Book. Miss Alexander. For the Library.
Mrs. Bodington has given us the Archdeacon's desk. Library Books. Mrs. Bodington, Mrs. Clarence, Miss Alice Frayling, Miss B. Clark, M. & D. Wheeler.
Chairs for the Hall. B. & E. Aldrick, P. Aldrick, M. Cough, C. Johnson, B. Adnitt, C. Allen. J. & N. Cole, G FleetwoodJones, B. Gardiner, R Jenner, G. Kirby, D Leveson, R. Moilliet, B. Sheldon, L. Suffrin, N. Williams. Pictures. Mrs. Bodington, the School on Miss Matthews' birthday, Mrs. Shipley. Games for Sanatorium. E. C Hindley. Ping Pong Table. Sir John Hindley. Silver Cup for Company Skipping.
Miss Goodrich
Silver Cup for French (to be held by the Form winning the highest percentage in the School examinations) Mademoiselle Chaumonnot. Mirror for Staff Room.
Miss Goodrich and Mrs. Maw.
58
OLD
GIRLS'
SUPPLEMENT.
Constitution of the S. Mary's Association. 1. The Association is to be known as the S. Mary's (Calne) Association. 2.—THE MEMBERSHIP to be made up as follows :— (a) President. Vice-Presidents. (b) Associates. (Honorary). Any members of the past or present Staff who apply. (c.) Members. Any girl who receives a leaving badge to be eligible for membership Girls who go to another school may apply to the Committee for the badge when they leave school altogether. 3.—THE COMMITTEE to consist of the President, the the present Head Girl, and two representatives from each Group (see 6). 4.—Members of the Committee to stand for six years, one-third retiring every two years. (Elections to take place at the Biennial Reunions at Calne). The Committee to elect its own Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer. 5.—A London Sub-Committee, consisting of members living in or near London, to be appointed by the General Committee, to arrange a London Reunion to be held in the second week of January each year. At least one member of the Sub-Committee to be on the General Committee 6.-GROUPS. Old Girls to be divided into Groups for the collection of news and subscriptions. I. Secretary, Katharine Barton, 77a, Abbey Road, London, N.W. 8, (for all who left school before 1915). II. Secretary, Jean Hughes (Sorsbie), 2, New Road, Rugby. III. Secretary, Dorothy Morrison, 90, Princes Road, Liverpool. IV. Secretary, Barbara Chambers, The Manor House, Sandgate, Kent. V. Secretary, Edna Bodinnar, Old Palace, Chippenham. VI. Secretary, Bridget Gardiner, Stokecliff, Dartmouth, S. Devon. 7.—Subscriptions to the Association to be for life, with the privilege of paying by instalment if desired. Life subscriptions to be £1 Is., possibly to be in-
54 creased to £1 10s at a subsequent Reunion if £1 Is. does not cover expenses. Group Secretaries will also collect subscriptions to the U G.S. (there is no fixed sum for this) and the School News-sheet (2/- a year, or Life subscription Expenses of Reunions will be shared by those present. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION. President — Miss MATTHEWS.
Vice-President — Miss ALEXANDER
Chairman — D. Morrison Treasurer-E. Birkbeck (Hollis). Secretary — I. C. Martin, Woodham Lodge, Addlestone, Surrey.
It is good to be able to write that the Association has grown so much during the past year. Its membership has now reached 157, and a sixth group was formed at the meeting at the Reunion in July. There are, however, about 100 old girls who have not yet joined the Association Will they not consider this chance of shewing in a concrete way the love which we all have for S. Mary's, and so make the Association a truly representative body of Old Girls? The Life subscription of £1 1 0 may be paid in yearly instalments, and the Hon, Sec., I. C. Martin, or I will be delighted to receive names of new members. Dorothy Morrison, (Chairman), 90, Princes Road, Liverpool. The Association has held two meetings this year, in London on January 8th. and at S. Mary's July 29th 31st. Of both of these Reunions accounts are given below. At the business meeting held on July 30th, Ivy Martin tendered her resignation of the Secretaryship of Group IV. It was felt that as General Secretary of the Association she should be relieved of her group, which she has worked so efficiently. Barbara Chambers was elected in her place. A resolution was passed that, in view of his wonderfully long and inspiring service to the school, an Associate Badge should be presented to Mr. Pullein. M. Maclean (Randolph), as the earliest of his pupils present, was deputed to make this presentation at the " At Home " in the afternoon.
55
A good deal of discussion took place with regard to the next London Reunion, there was some feeling that it would be still more successful if held in term time. It was decided, however to retain the plan for holding it in January, but it was hoped that both afternoon and evening meetings would be arranged for the future. The date of the next meeting has been fixed provisionally for Wednesday, January 7th. The London Committee was appointed, to consist of I. Martin, A. Le Mesurier, N. Fisher, G. Burnett and E Cowers. Miss Matthews opened a discussion about a Memorial to Archdeacon Bodington. The meeting expressed the wish that a tablet should be placed in Chapel, and that, if possible, Altar Cross, vases and candlesticks should be dedicated to his memory. A Committee to deal with this was appointed, the members being Miss Alexander, J. Hughes (Sorsbie), F. Bartlett, M Durst, B. Kitson, and E Gowers (representing the present school).
S. Mary's Association. 1929 RECEIPTS.
EXPENDITURE.
£ Group I p e r K . Barton 4 II ,, J. Hughes 25 ,. Ill ,. D. Morrison 45 ,, IV ,, I. Martin 46 V ,, E. Bodinnar 43
s. 9 16 2 17 7
d. 3 3 0 0 0
Postage — Stationery Printing — R Heath Wreath U.G.S. Subscriptions News sheet ,, Balance
£165 11 6
156 5 7
s. d. 9 2 12 6 1 0 13 6 4 6 10 10
£165 11 6
January Ist-June 30th, 1930, £ * d.
Balance December 1929 1121010 Group I per K. Barton 2 19 9 I I , . J , Hughes 7 2 0 !. Ill ,, D. Morrison 7 18 0 IV ,, I. Martin 9 12 6 V ,, E Bodinnar 9 14 0 London Reunion Receipts 6 8 6
£ 3 2 1 12 33 112
£ s. U G.S Subscription 16 15 News sheet ,. 8 8 Secretarial expenses 1 4 London Reunion 6 8 £\ 00 War Loan 5% Stock 102 11 Balance 20 18
d. 0 0 3 4
7 5
/156 5 7
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The London Reunion. January 8th, 1930. Ever since January 8th I have been trying to nerve myself to write up the Reunion in an article-as-for-theNews-sheet way. Unfortunately Miss Matthews wouldn't trust my memory, or obedience, or past training, or something, and insisted on writing ''REUNION" in large letters on a parcel I was carrying. It was a tube of tooth paste, so it sank in, and every day the firm and familiar handwriting, instead of speaking with the trumpet voice of Duty, recalls my absurd and sentimental past, and destroys the impersonal outlook for good. So, now that the News sheet, like every other department of S. Mary's, has expanded, throwing out a supplementary wing for Old Girls, I can take one of the compensations of Old Age, and relax. First of all, what happened. Apparently there had been tea and talk at trestle tables, but I was late, timing my entry for the middle of Miss Matthews' speech. She welcomed everybody who had come, and regretted the absence of everyone who had not been able to, especially Elisabeth Kitson, who was scheduled to give an account of her work with the East African Archaeological Expedition in Kenya Colony, which, according to Miss Matthews anyway, seemed to consist mostly of digging up prehistoric skeletons, and setting forth with a gun to find contemporary dinners. Then Mary Vischer, incredibly grown-up, gave an account of her visit to the Mission Settlement, and after that Ivy Martin quoted a few harrowing remarks on the sorrows of her lot by Dorothy Morrison, speaking as a representative Secretary of a Branch. It is hardly necessary to add that the word subscription occurred. That was the end of anything at all formal, so people scattered into groups and talked. At least, talked is not exactly accurate,-it was more like Cross Question and Crooked Answers, without the silent bits. There was no time to talk. You were making frenzied conversation to A, and had just realised she was not the stranger she looked at first, when B appeared hovering impatiently in the background, but no sooner had you got uniting like anything with B, than she began questing with one eye for C, and only responding to your best Ancient Mariner efforts with the other, while you s.iw in despair that D had slipped away still dis-united. But it was great fun— like doing the Academy or the Zoo—seeing everything once, and nothing twice.
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The trouble is that Miss Matthews has spoilt us. There is nothing in the London Reunion to touch some of the long evenings in the summer, after a day of strenuous reuniting, when a little crowd collects round the Sixth Form radiators, facing the sacred corner where the old stove seems to come again to glowing life, with the new and spacious outlines of the room lost in shadow, and a lazy scattered conversation begins, with its immemorial, " Do you remember the row there was when ? " the flow only broken by great roai s of laughter at the sudden vision conjured up by small and circumstantial details and wide and absurd allusions, until time and space break their hold, and we are really back again. I do not in the least mean that the London Reunion is not a very great success. It is, though I am not quite sure there is enough of it. It absolutely achieves its object of being an easy opportunity for people to meet their friends in a Calne-like setting, and to arrange to meet more, and to write more. It is a chance for us to do for ourselves what Miss Matthews has been doing for us in the summer. And it is appalling how welcome that opportunity is. We all want to " keep up" with people, but from the time of officially coming out one seems mentally to go in, and to lavish on doing things the energy that at school one hurled into the adventure of making friends. I should soon be adventuring into dangerous paths of originality, and saying there were no friends like old friends if I were not afraid of being engulfed in waves of sentiment, singing Auld Lang Syne to myself, and quoting a poem I once learnt as a punishment about being further off from heaven than when I was a boy. It made a great impression. Perhaps none of you feel like that. But speaking for myself—which I seem to be doing rather a lot—I consider this annual function a means to re-union rather than an end in itself, and my gratitude to the President, the Vice-President, the Committee and the Secretariat of the Association, is for organizing such an efficient machine for us to use as a combined Address-book, Telephone-book and Photograph Album, and to be a sort of dress rehearsal for the summer reunion, ensuring its success from the moment when the curtain goes up.
D. W. Urwick.
The following were present:—Miss Matthews, Miss Alexander, Miss Clarke, Miss Goodrich, Miss Gibson, Miss Gutteridge, Miss Helliwell, Miss Stevens-Guille, Miss Williams, Miss Wright, F. Bartlett, K. Barton, H. Bartrum, R. Buck, E Buszard, M. Cole, J. Collard, G. Croft, M. Crokat, A. Darch, R Davy, M. Dillon-Trenchard, D. Dillon-Trenchard, A. Durst, M Durst, C. Fairbairn (Croft), N. Fisher, M. Fraser, B. Green (Skyrme), D. Haviland, M. Hill, P. Hopkins, J. Inder, M. Joyce, D. Kenrick, L. Kirby, A. A. Le Mesurier, A. Le Mesurier, P. Marchant, I. Martin, I. Martineau, M Price, S. Randolph, J. Rew, A. Savory, M. Short, H. Tench, V. Turner, D. Urwick, M. Vischer, P. Waddilove, D. Wilson (Baines), Z. Wimperis (Inder), E. Wood, J. Blaxter (Hollis) The Reunion, July 1930. One of the nicest things about this Reunion was its representative character. There were present not only potential " Old Girls," new recruits, and comparative newcomers to the ranks of the S.M A., in very satisfactory numbers, but also many whose names have been names to conjure with during the important recent years in school history, because of the foundation they laid for us while they were at school - Miss Abdy, Mary Margesson, Dorothy Morrison, Margaret Maclean (Randolph), Jean Hughes (Sdrsbie), Elisabeth Kitson, and Eileen Wolfenden between them represent the " famous days" of what to S Mary's, which in the last five years has so altered and expanded, seem very " long ago," and we were proud to have them with us. We most of us arrived at tea-time on Tuesday, and spent the period between tea and supper, which in sterner days would have been devoted to prep, or walks, or organised games, in hailing old friends, making tours of inspection, or falling into rhapsodies over the palace which has replaced the old cloakroom. In the evening we danced, and played games with an " abandon " which shewed that we had not aged so very considerably since leaving school. Archdeacon Coulter held a Celebration in Church for us on Wednesday morning. Calne Church has always meant so much to S. Mary's and to the successive generations of Old Girls, that it seems impossible to give thanks enough for the great privilege of worship in that
59
wonderful building. We may be sure that Archdeacon Bodington, the school's most faithful friend, who fell on sleep last Autumn, was present with us in the spirit on Wednesday morning. Afterwards, we laid a wreath of flowers on his grave. At twelve, Mr. Pullein gave an organ recital for us in Church; his music is another of the great privileges which the school enjoys, and we Old Girls are very grateful indeed to him for giving us so much pleasure. After lunch, we held a business meeting of the Association, but the tennis tournament, which was to have followed, had to be abandoned on account of the weather. At tea, to which we welcomed many old friends of the school, Mr Pullein was made an " honorary Old Girl" and member of the Association, in recognition of his long friendship, and many and valuable services to the school. At " Dinner and Speeches," Miss Grover proposed the health of the Old Girls, and in reply, Alice Le Mesurier, proposed the health of the Staff. Miss Duncan replied, and said something about the Leaving Girls. Bridget Gardiner proposed the health of Staffo, and we then heard Staffo himself. Although he is the private familiar of Miss Alexander, he is also intimate with Jean Hughes, and spoke at her invocation with what was evidently an unparalled command of language. Jean then proposed the health of Miss Matthews, and Miss Matthews in reply told us about the recent visit to S. Mary's of Inspectors from the Board of Education. We were pleased, but not in the least surprised, to hear that the Inspectors had given the school an excellent report. After dinner, we were entertained first with music, provided by both Old Girls and present members of the school, then with scenes from past history, produced with almost painful accuracy, by different groups. A special vote of thanks to Miss Jennings who arranged the concert for us. We were all very sorry to leave on Thursday. We all love coming back, for one thing because it is such a comfort to receive ocular proof that in spite of all our gloomy forebodings, the school is very far from going to the dogs. And besides, we are always so hospitably welcomed, and it is good to meet old friends and to see again the old places. And we are always so well looked after. And so this account of a wonderful two days ends on a note of thanks, to Miss Damant, to Nellie and the
60
maids, to Miss Alexander, whom we were very glad indeed to see back in her proper place at school, to our other kind hostesses on the Staff, and above all, to Miss Matthews, who made the Reunion this year such a success. Alice Le Mesurier. The following were present at the Reunion : — practically all the present staff, the prefects, the leaving girls, and Miss Abdy, Miss Goodrich, Miss A. Frayling, Miss B. Clark, M. Maclean (and Alison), D. Morrison, M. Margesson, M. Bigwood, J. Cooke, J. Hughes (Sorsbie), E. Kitson, B. Kitson, V. Newcomb, E. Wolfenden, B. Chambers, N. Fisher, N. Hiscpck, M. Lucas, I. Martin, G. Beale, P. Hopkins, L. Kirby F. Pocock, Mary Smith, A. Burke, P. Gee, M. Butler, M Hussey, G. Pocock, R. Price, V. Turner, F Bartlett, Y. Bartlett, E. Bodinnar, Alice Le Mesurier J. Cole, Enid Betty, G. Dixon, B. Pritchett, Jean Young, M. Price, R. Buck, M. Durst, G. Gee, B Lacon, AnneLe Mesurier, Mary Lucas, E. Westaway. A feature of the Reunion was the presence of no fewer than seven Head Girls—M. Maclean (Randolph) 1919, D. Morrison 1920, J. Hughes (Sorsbie) 1921, I. Martin 1923, E. Bodinnar 1926, R. Buck 1927, B. Gardiner 1929. These were all photographed with Miss Matthews; if anyone likes to have a copy she should send 7d. to F. Bartlett at the school. Mr. Pullein writes July 31st, 1930 :—"I was taken by surprise yestersday. Someone said " speech," but of the many things I do badly, speech making is, I think, just about the worst! But I do say " thank you" for the Badge, which I feel is an honour to possess, and which I shall be proud to wear.'" News of Old Girls. Josephine Aldrick is still nursing at the Orthopaedic Hospital in Bath. Patricia is taking a secretarial course in Bath, and Beth and Eileen left S. Mary's in April, as their parents have left Calne, and are now at a school in Bristol. Philippa Archer (Trousdell) writes from the British Consulate General, Seoul, Korea, " We like Seoul very much on the whole. The Japanese have made vast improvements in the last few years, and have cleaned up a lot of slums. The country all round is really
61
very attractive for walking and motoring, except at certain seasons when the roads are very bad (There are no metalled roads in the country districts.) This winter we have had a good deal of skating, and in the early summer there is quite good river bathing. But to make the most of the country you must get "off the beaten track." Philippa's son is just over a year old Vera Bailey has been appointed to the post of Physical Organiser in Newport. Edna Bartlett has been living, since her Father died, at New Milton, and keeping a home for her two little nieces whose parents, are in India. Eileen Bartlett is very happily married, and is in Alberta with her husband and little girl. Freda Bartlett is secretary to Miss Matthews. Yvonne Bartlett has an appointment as Junior Sister at Downside School. Helen Bartrum is still studying music at the Royal College. She seems to find great interest in her Sunday School class. Kathleen Beach has now left the London Hospital, and is very much interested in her private nursing. Joan Beach was married in the spring to Dr. Simpson, and writes very happily from her home in Beaconsfield. Bunty Beach has taken a course of secretarial training, and has had a temporary post with Lady Hulse. Gladys Beale is teaching at Oakley Hall, Cirencester, a boys' preparatory school which has had many links with S. Mary's. Jean Beckett left her job in London last January, and has since had a very gay time. Enid Betty is at home and is greatly interested in her work with the Wolf Cubs. Madge Bigwood seems to live a very full life, she has been learning singing with Mr Plunkett Green. Edna Bodinnar has been at home all the year. Adela Bradford is also at home ; her family have recently moved to Burgess Hill. We were so sorry to hear of her motor accident in the spring. Adela's youngest sister, Diana, is joining Felicity at S. Mary's in September. KatherineBrichta writes from Havergal College, Toronto: " I am now at school in Toronto, and like it very much. It seems very much like an English school.
62
It is meant to be very like Cheltenham, because the mistress who started it was on the staff at Cheltenham, and tried to make the school as much like Cheltenham as possible. Nearly all the mistresses are English. We play tennis, baseball, ground hockey, ice hockey, badminton and basket ball here. Basket ball is quite like Netball, but some things we have to do in basket ball are fouls in Netball, so I forget to do them. I am in a Domestic Science form, very much like Arts &. Crafts. I do Cooking, Dietetics, Chemistry of Foods, Home Economics, . Home Art, Dressmaking, Laundry and Physiology, as well as some other lessons. We have an afternoon like hobby day ; some do basket work and leather work. I am doing another lino cut." Joan Bridgman is a capital correspondent. We have most interesting letters from her in India, where among other things, she is teaching her little sisters who hope to come to S. Mary's before very long. Violet Briscoe has a post in Cordwalles, School, Camberley. Barbara Briscoe is still at school in Eastbourne. Rachel Buck writes most happily from Bedford Physical Training College : she seems to be doing very well, and is in the second team both for cricket and tennis. Gladys Burnett is still in the offices of the Church Assembly where she has been for several years. She always seems very busy indeed with her Guide work. Madeleine Barton-Wright is engaged to be married. She hopes to go to Egypt next November for three months to see her brother. Dorothy Capewell (Clayton) is still Headmistress of the village school, Eakring. We congratulate her on the birth of her second daughter last June. Barbara Chambers is a busy home daughter, very keen on her Sunday School teaching. She keeps in touch with a large number of old girls. Christine Church has been working at Domestic Science at Harcombe House. Cicely Cobb came down from Lady Margaret Hall in June. Joan Cole is in her father's office, reading law. She is doing very keen work with the Brownies, and is most faithful to S. Mary's, coming to Chapel nearly every Sunday evening. Marjorie Cole is nursing at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
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Margaret Cole has finished her secretarial training, and now has a post at the Asiatic Petroleum Company, where Annette Prevost and Mary Vischer are also working. Joyce Collard is games' mistress at S. Helen's School, Abingdon. Joyce Cooke is teaching history at S. Mary's. Leonore Cooke has just finished her second year at Girton where she is reading Science. Gwendoline Croft has a post as private governess. Dorothy Crokat is still keeping house for her father, and is also teaching a little boy, and working up a girls' club in Wembdon. Mary Crokat is working at S. Agnes' Home, Clapham. The death of their aunt, the Superior, was a great grief to them Alice Darch has finished her theatrical training, and has been with the Macdona Players in their Bernard Shaw productions Ruth Davy is engaged to be married. Mollie and Dorothy Dillon-Trenchard are living with their aunts at Hurst Green. Gwendoline Dixon is doing very well at her music ; she works with Mr. Pullein. She is also doing keen work with the Calne Guides. Anne Durst writes most delightfully happily of her training in children's welfare work at the Babies' Home in Kennington. She is to go out to Kimberley with her uncle, the Bishop, in the early autumn, and hopes to get work there. Molly Durst had a most interesting time in Florence last autumn, and has since had two terms with Mademoiselle Dufresne near Dieppe, and has been as happy as Anne was in her time there. Helen Douglas has a post as Matron at Westonbirt School. She came to see us in June. Gretchen Ellis has entered her twelfth year at Wellesley House, Broadstairs Daphne Emerson is in Simla, and has been meeting Diana Mallock. Rosalind Evans has just finished her second year at S. Hilda's College, Oxford. Christine Fairbairn (Croft) brought her wee Patricia to the London Reunion. She is living at Radlett. Frances Groves iFarnfield) has just moved into a larger Vicarage at Wheatley. Her John and Elizabeth sound most delightful people.
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Jean Ferguson took a three months' course at King's College Hospital. Nora Fisher left her post in Denbigh a year ago and is now at home. She has been learning singing with Dr. Cook, organist of Southwark Cathedral. She has been doing work in the C.O S. office at Camberwell, under her aunt. Margaret Fraser writes very happily from S. Bartholomew's Hospital, where she is nursing. Phyllis and Grace Gee are both at home, very busy people. Katherine Griffith (Prevost) writes very happily from her home near Brecon. Mary and Jo Gould are both living at home : Mary is still teaching Domestic Science. Margaret Griffith is still teaching in the Junior school run in connection with Croydon High School and is very much interested in her work there, and in her Sunday School work. She is hoping to be married next year. Ann Hathaway was married in June. Dorothy Haviland still lives in Romsey and is very busy with her dancing connection. Nelly Highmore writes from Beverley, she has some pupils for elocution. Joan Hilder (Hussey) went out to Cape Town in the autumn and was married there to Mr. Cecil Hilder. They both came back to England in the Spring. Katharine Hill is still teaching domestic science in Camberley. Monica Hill has a secretarial post in London Mary Hiscock has to give up her post at Heatherton School, Chesham Bois, owing to her health, and she has been at home this summer. Janet Hollis came to the London Reunion bringing delightful photographs of her twin sons and of Elizabeth. Nora Hollis gave up her post as Classical mistress at the County School, Luton, in April and was married in August. Her home is in Northampton, where her husband is in the County Educational Offices Marion Hopkins has had another year of ill health, so disappointing for her after her interesting work in a school near home. Peggy Hopkins has been working in the Katharine Low Settlement in Battersea.
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Peggy Hubbard (Buck) is to be congratulated on the birth, last January, of her little daughter, Joan Lilian. She still lives in Medellin, Colombia. Jean Hughes (Sorsbie) writes very happily of her life in Rugby. Margery Hulbert is very happy in her work as secretary to some doctors in Bristol One of them is brother of Miss Angell James. Mary Hussey is still at home. Jean Inder has been training as a dispenser and has a post, conveniently near her home, with two doctors in Harrow. Barbara Isaacs writes very faithfully from Jamaica, where she still teaches gymnastics. Joy Jackson was for some months in France, in the same family as Barbara Lacon, learning French and working at her music. Myfanwy Jenkins, who has been teaching gymnastics at S. Anne's School, Hilton Road, Natal, hopes to come to England shortly. Joan Joscelyne writes interesting letters from India, where she is with her parents. Mary Joy is training in Domestic Science work in Bath. Zoe Joy is apprenticed to Jolly's; we see them occasionally in Calne, both seem very happy in their work. Lucy Kirby is doing extremely well in her Massage and Electrical training at King's College Hospital. She came out first of all the candidates in England in her Massage examination last spring. Elisabeth Kitson wrote of her wonderful experiences in East Africa with the Archaeological Expedition. She was present at the British Association meetings in Johannesburg, and came home via Cape Town. She has been working in London and in Oxford, and has now been awarded the Crewdson Bennington Studentship in Craniology by University College, London. Barbara Lacon was in a French family from September to May, working very hard at her music. Margaret Legh-Smith is taking a training in Massage and Electrical treatment. Alice Le Mesurier came down in June from Westfield College, where she has been reading History. We congratulate her very heartily on her First Class. She is now to have a year's training as a teacher. Anne Le Mesurier has just finished her first year at Girton College where she is reading Classics.
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Barbara Lutener has a class near home for little children, and is very happy in her work. Christine has a post as Matron in a school near Brighton Margaret Maclean (Randolph) is to be congratulated on the birth of her second daughter, Alison, in January. Alison came to the Reunion in July and did full credit to her excellent bringing up ! Patricia Marchant has finished her training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Mary Margesson who is working with the Universities' Mission to Central Africa, came home in July for her first leave. We were delighted to see her at the Reunion. Ivy Martin still acts as a most energetic secretary to the S. Mary's Association. She writes: " I have been quite busy lately, not only with relays of chickens hatching and growing, but also my new jobs as District Captain for the Byfleet Guides have taken some time the last few weeks. The District is without a Commissioner of its own, so I am doing most of the work, helped by the Commissioner for Addlestone. My own Company in the Princess Mary Homes is getting more and more obstreperous as time goes on, but withal immensely keen and working hard." Isabel Martineau is shortly to begin her training as a Doctor at Birmingham University. Diana Mallock writes capital letters from Delhi and Simla where she has been with her parents since leaving school last July. Her accounts of her time in the jungle, when she went with her father who was tiger shooting, were most thrilling. It is sad that we have not room to quote from an amazingly interesting letter. Margaret Merrett came to see us recently. She still lives in Weybridge, and seems to come across a good many old girls. Margaret McKay writes very happily of her engagement to a friend of her brother's. Dorothy Morrison has an intensely interesting post as S.P.G. Organizing Secretary in the Diocese of Liverpool. Winifred Murrell wrote delightful letters from Germany where she was for several months. She went out intending to pay a short visit to some friends, but writes, "After three weeks I had quite decided that
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I could not possibly go home. I was enchanted with the Germans and.the German life. I began at once to look for something to do, and eventually found this job. I live with a mother and her son and am treated just as if I were the daughter of the house." She is now at home. Gwenda Norman-Jones writes interesting accounts of her life at Nga Tawa, the Wellington Diocesan School for Girls, Marton, to which she was sent on her return to New Zealand. She says : " Quite a number of the Staff here are from Cambridge, and the remainder from Oxford. They come out on a threeyear-post system, and consequently are always changing, except for two or three permanent senior Mistresses, and the Headmistress, Miss McCall. The school is run on English lines—scarcely different from S. Mary's except for the customs and a few adaptions to meet the climate." Joan Parry is leaving Queen Anne's School, Caversham, this term, and is to take a course of Dairy work at Reading University. She has done very well at Queen Anne's. Grace Pocock is engaged to be married. Frances Pocock is still teaching in the Gregg Secretarial School at West Croydon. Rosamund and Margaret Price are at home. Margaret was in Paris for a time, and now helps with Infant Welfare work twice a week. Barbara Pritchett had a most interesting time in a family in Frankfurt. Susan Randolph has a post as music mistress at S. Peter's School, Seaford Molly Rawlins has been extremely happy in her training in the Wingfield Orthopaedic Hospital, near Oxford. She is to take a course in Massage at King's College Hospital. Joan Rew writes contentedly from her post as assistant secretary at the Portsmouth Club, Grosvenor Place. Ursula Robins writes of a wonderful visit to Italy. She is learning singing with Mr. George Parker. Dorothy Sainsbury who is doing Missionary work out in Belize, British Honduras, writes: '" From March, 1921, to April, 1929, I was at the Diocesan High School for Girls. Since then I have had temporary charge of a district school at Orange Walk. Then I went up the old river on which Belize stands, to a place called El Cayo, where there was a school master
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Catechist. While there I made one expedition down the river to visit some small settlements called " Banks"; but I chose an unfortunate week when only two boats came up, so I could only stay at two Banks, and the mud was too terrible to attempt to go from Bank to Bank by road. At Mount Hope on that occasion I slept on a Bush bed, very hard, at one end of a room, and the old man and his wife slept at the other. All beds here have mosquitoe nets, so the bed being large, was like a curtained room. One has no idea when a boat will come so it means packing up every day, and sitting on or near the bank of the river listening for the throb of the engine. The people are most hospitable and kind according to their means, which are scanty. One gets rice, and local meats, as gibnut, hiccatee, deer, peccary, and chicken. In February I went off at short notice to a small school on the same river, where I lived for six weeks in a native hut, but there was a wood floor, not the usual earth floor. The school, which was the Church on Sundays, was the same type of building. The Bishop told me if I found conditions too rough to come back ; but I was extremely happy there. Of course there were cockroaches galore, scorpions, centipedes, and mosquitoes, and one day we had a snake in school; all the furniture in the house was three tables and a pail, and two chairs. I had to take everything else, lamp, stove, basin, cot, linen, etc. The mail boat stopped by arrangement to leave my letters, and it invariably called after 11 p.m. and at times 2 and 3 a.m. It gave a warning blow, and I had time to put on a burberry, and go to the waterside,-which was down a fairly steep bank. During the May holiday I went with my successor at the High School to several banks up the river; in two weeks we lost four nights' rest sitting up for boats which sometimes never came, and sometimes came or landed us at 2 and 3 a.m." Averil Savory is making splendid headway with her Arts and Crafts. She is opening a Craft Shop at Forest Row, near East Grinstead Mollie Stevens writes delightful accounts of her post in Greece where she is companion to two children. She has met a great many English people in Athens, and made many friends, and has been working hard at Greek history, Archaeology and Mythology.
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Rachel Stiles is engaged to be married. She writes : "I enjoyed my trip to Australia very much, I found the sea voyages much more enjoyable than rushing from town to town and meeting heaps of fresh people, probably only seeing them once or twice and then going on to another place. I should like to have been able to go and stay in the country on one of the big stations, but although we were invited, time did not allow, as the distances seem so enormous, and the trains are not good ; we could not even go to see all my cousins. I stayed outside Melbourne with my great Aunt and Uncle and had a lovely time, as the countryside there was looking fresh and green, and the wattle (mimosa) trees were all in bloom. The winter climate is delightful although there are some cold winds, but there seem to be flowers all the year round—roses, sweetpeas and iceland poppies flowering in mid-winter. We went up as far north as Brisbane which we found quite hot after Sydney, and wore thin dresses, and enjoyed the wonderful sunshine ; we only had one wet afternoon during the ten days that we were there. We went for two beautiful drives in the Blue Mountains while we were staying in Sydney, the scenery is rather beautiful, and they certainly deserve their name as the distant hills are covered with a lovely blue haze." Kathleen Stone has been seeing much of the world as a nurse on the Canadian-Pacific line. She has written describing her experiences of one voyage "we took out about sixteen hundred emigrants—Poles, Germans, and Hungarians chiefly, and a few hundred British. It was very pathetic to see the poor souls, with many children and one or two trunks as their whole possessions, going to a strange land, and not even able to speak the language. I had a busy time trying to find out the needs of any who were ill, especially as the English the Interpreters spoke was often difficult to follow ! However, most of the time I had little work to do." She is engaged to be married. Mary Tallents has just finished her second year at Durham University. She had an interesting tour in Scotland with the Tennis Six. Dulcie Taylor is still at the Royal College of Music, studying singing. Unfortunately, she missed most of the summer term through illness She spent the
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summer holidays in Belgium helping a friend with a tea shop. Thelma Taylor has been in France since leaving school. She is hoping shortly to go to Harcombe House for a course in Domestic Science. Helen Tench has given up all her massage now, and takes nothing but dancing. She is on the staff at the Ruby Peeler School in Regent Street. She was unable to come to the Reunion as she was taking the dancing at Bedford Physical Training College holiday week. She wrote that she was going to Corsica for the summer holidays. Eleanora Tench is still teaching in Edinburgh, and Sheila has written interesting letters from Studley College. Marjorie Thynne has been helping a friend with her small family. Barbara Thompson was in Florence last autumn. In January she began a course of secretarial training at S. James's College. Valerie Townshend is training as a nursery nurse at Cromwell House, Highgate. Gwynedd Turner has just finished her second year at Bedford Physical Training College. Valerie Turner is a nursery nurse. Doreen Urwick is still doing secretarial work at the Whitely Village, Walton-on-Thames. Mary Vischer finished her training at S. James's Secretarial College in June, and now has a post with the Asiatic Petroleum Company Elizabeth Westaway has had a very happy first year at the Froebel College, Roehampton. Jocelyn Wilcocks writes :—" I had a beautiful time in Canada last winter; I was staying just outside Montreal with an aunt and a lot of cousins when I first went out in October I thoroughly enjoyed the ski-ing, toboganning and riding there. In March I went out West to a little place called Quick, to stay with a married sister there 1 was on the train four days and five nights, it was a very interesting journey, but became rather boring. Everybody got off the train when it stopped at a station and walked up and down the platform as it was the only exercise one could get. I arrived at Quick at 5 o'clock in the morning. It is beautiful country there, and very wild, mountains and woods all round, with the Bulkley river flowing through. There are quite a
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lot of coyotes and bears there; I never saw a bear; although I got up at 5 a.m. several times and went for a ride through the woods looking for one, I was never successful. I spent a good deal of my time riding there on all kinds of horses, including a famous bucking bronco which I could not stay on for very long. It is a most fascinating country, and I hope to be able to pay another visit there sometime." Joan Williams has begun her training at S. Thomas's Hospital. Zeala Wimperis (Inder) is to* be congratulated on her splendid son—just a year old. Eileen Wolfenden is games' mistress at S George's School, Ascot. Anne Wood spent several months in Germany, working hard at German but resting from singing. Since her return at Christmas she has been studying in York with Dr. Bairstow. She has had several engagements, and sang at the concert of Italian music given at Burlington House in connection with the Italian exhibition. Monica Wood is still on the staff at Harcombe House. Margaret Wood has a post in a tea shop in London. Ellen Wood is leaving Guernsey. Jean Young has been in West Africa with her parents, but has now come home, and hopes to spend several months in France.
Of the Girls who have left us this year :— Bridget Gardiner, our Head Girl, is going to live at home. Gwen Kirby will be at home for the present ; she is hoping later to take up some form of Child Welfare work. Ray Moilliet is going to train for Kindergarten work at the Maria Grey Training College. Leila Suffrin is going to Westfield College, where she is to read Classics. Betty Adnitt is to take a course of Domestic Science at Reading University. Betty Sheldon is going to France for a time. Nancy Williams and Gwyneth Fleetwood-Jones will both be at home, s t u d y i n g music.
72 Margot Young is to go to France for some months with her Mother and Jean, then to Harcombe House for a course in Domestic Science. Pamela Lacon and Constance Allen are both going to France. Elizabeth Betty and Rowena Jenner will both be at home. Nancy Cole is hoping to go to Bath School of Domestic Science.
News of ",Old Staff." Miss Abdy is still teaching in Reading. Mrs Babington is to be congratulated on the birth of her second son. Miss Brown has been appointed classical mistress at North Middlesex Girls' School. Enfield, Miss Clarke was appointed in January to a post at the Junior School, Harrogate Ladies College. Miss Gibson is secretary to the Diocesan Board of Women's Work in Birmingham Miss Gutteridge is now one of the senior members of the staff at the County School, Dovercourt. Miss "Goodrich, a f t e r a year's work at Clapham High School, has been appointed to the Froebel Training College, Roehampton. Miss Hales is on the staff of University College, Southampton. Miss Helliwell is still teaching at Clapham High School, where in addition to all her music teaching she has now been appointed a Form Mistress. Miss Hyslop was married last November in Calcutta. Miss Monica Jones came home in the spring after nearly three years at S. Michael's School, Bloemfontein, and came to visit us in May. Miss Lys has a post at the Old Hall, Wellington, Shropshire, a preparatory school for boys. Miss Symonds is teaching at Edgehill College, Bideford. Miss Secretan is still teaching in New York. She was in England this summer, and came to see us in July. Miss Stevens- Guille. who has been senior student at the College of the Ascension, sails in October for India, where she is taking up missionary work. Miss Thompson is still at S. Catherine's School, Bramley. Miss Williams is still on the staff of Evendine School of Domestic Science, Colwall.
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Miss Wilmott has completed her seventh year at Princess Helena College, Baling. Miss Wright is living at home. Miss Wrightson is on the staff of Dumfermline Physical Training College. The following have visited the school during the year (in addition to those who came to the Reunion) :— Miss Clarke, Miss Goodrich, Miss Hales, Miss Helliwell, Miss Monica Jones, Miss Lys, Miss Secretan, Miss Williams, Y. Bartlett, M. Barton-Wright, E. Betty, E. Bodinnar, P. Brentnall, J. Bridgman, R. Buck, D. Burke, M. Cole, J. Collard, L. Cooke, H. Douglas, M. Durst, M. Hill, K. Hill, J. Hughes (Sorsbie), J. Hilder (Hussey.) M. Hussey, E. Kitson. B. Lacon, Anne Le Mesurier, D. Mallock, M. Parker, M. Merrett, B. Thompson, D. Urwick, M. Vischer, E. Westaway. Weddings. B1RKBECK—HOLLIS. On August 5th, 1930, at Abington, Frederick John Birkbeck to Elinor Hollis, daughter of Mrs. Hollis, of Abington. Northampton. FRAIN — HYSLOP. On November 25th, 1929, in Calcutta. Captain R. C. Frain, M.C., B.Sc., Indian Ordnance Factories, Ishapore.to Christine Margaret Hyslop, of Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent. HILDER—HUSSEY. On March 13th. 1930, in Cape Town, Edward Cecil Lake Hilder to Joan Elizabeth Hussey, of Highworth, Wilts. RENFREW—HATHAWAY. On June 21st, 1930, Ann Hathaway, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. J. Hathaway, to Colin Renfrew, son of Mr. and Mrs. Archibald Renfrew, of Broadway, Worcs. SIMPSON-BEACH. On Tuesday. April 29th, 1930, Charles Walter Simpson, M.B., B.Ch , of Beaconsfield, Bucks, to Margery Joan, second daughter of Mr. H. G. Beach, of Fordingbridge. Births. Archer. On July 15th, 1929, in Seoul, Korea, to Philippa (nee Trousdell) wife of C. H. Archer (H.M. Consular Service) of a son (Robert John).
Babington —On May 12th, 1930,at the Vicarage,West End, Southampton, to Ruth (nee Montgomery) wife of the Rev. R. H Babington, a son (Gervaise Hamilton). Capewell. On June 23rd, 1930, to Dorothy (nee Clayton) wife of Bernard Capewell of a daughter (Gwendolen Honor). Hodgkinson. On On January 23rd, 1930, at Grayshott, Ito Judy (nee; Hutchinson) wife of R. J. Hodgkinson, son. Hubbard. On January 7th, 1930, at Medellin, Colombia, to Peggy (nee Buck), wife of Douglas Hubbard, a daughter (Joan Lilian). Maclean. On January 24th, 1930, at 12, Westbourne Avenue, Emsworth, to Margaret (nee Randolph) \vife of Commander Maclean, of a daughter (Alison). Scott. On April 4th, 1930, at Scarborough, to Margery (nee P a r k e r , w i f e of Captain T. A. R. Scott, Royal Signals, a son (Richard Thomas).
Addresses of those leaving 1 9 2 9 — 1 9 3 0 . Miss Brown, The Cottage, Edington, Bridgwater, Somerset. E. C. E. N G.
J. Adnitt, 26, East Park Parade. Northampton. M. Allen, Shalfleet, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight. K. K Betty, Nunsnugga. Puddletown, Dorset. M. Cole, 6. Curzon Street, Calne. F. Fleetwood-Jones, The Vicarage, Hurstbourne Tarrant, Andover, Hants. B. M. Gardiner. Stoke Cliff, Dartmouth, Devon. R. Jenner Vennwood, Hereford. G. M. Kirby, 4, Essex Road, Gravesend. P. A Lacon, Helmsley, South Hill Avenue, Harrow-on-the-Hill. D M Leveson, Dixton Manor, Gotherington, Cheltenham. R. M. K. Moilliet, Northwood Rectory, Newport, Isle of Wight. M. B. Sheldon, Ivy Gates, Guernsey. J. L. Suffrin. 8, S Flora's Road, Littlehampton, Sussex. N M. Williams, Hemsworth Rectory, Pontefract, Yorks. C M. Young, c/o Mrs Couper, Langbrae, Budleigh Salterton.
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Old Girls' Badges. The Old Girls' Badge, 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. Subscriptions to the News-sheet should be sent, as soon as possible, to F. M. Bartlett, S. Mary's School, Calne. Old Girls belonging to the .Association pay through their group secretaries. Each copy costs 2/Life Subscription ÂŁ 1 5 0 .
We have received with thanks Magazines from the Godolphin School, Salisbury; Queen Margaret's School, Scarborough ; S. Margaret's School, Bushey; Queen's College, Barbados; London Orphan School, Watford ; Royal School, B a t h ; S. Katherine's, Heatherton Park, Taunton; Sandecotes, Parkstone ; Bishop Strachan School, Toronto, O n t a r i o ; Howell's School, Denbigh; School of S. Mary & S. Anne, Abbots Bromley, Stafford ; Luckley, Wokingham ; S. Helen's, Abingdon,
Presentation to Mr. Manners. S. Mary's has many almost unknown friends, and chief among these we should place Mr. Manners, whose fifty years of work for Mr. Heath ended last January. He has always produced our News-sheet for us, as well as all the other printing required by the school. On January 18th the two Head girls made, on our behalf, a little presentation to him, to shew how much we appreciated all he had done for us in the printing office. It has been a great pleasure to us to hear that he returned to Calne, and to his former work, in August for a fortnight in order to help us with the publication of this News-sheet.