TH E
PETERITE. VOL. XXII.
DECEMBER, 1919.
No. 233.
SCHOOL LETTER. " In Xanadu did Kubla Khan A stately pleasure-dome decree." UT who would venture to compare it to the new splendour of our Big Hall ? Surely we cannot do better than start with our good wishes to those who will grace such surroundings with their representation of the Court of Louis XIII. It is, however, a great sorrow to us all that Mr. Temperley will not be with us to enjoy it. In his new home at Aberystwith we. trust that he has found ample scope for his talents ; but the loss of his cheerful and kindly personality we deplore sincerely. Let it not prevent us, however, from offering our heartiest welcome to Mr. Beach and Mr. Skene. Another cloud upon our horizon is the approaching resignation of Mr. Grey, after so many years of patient, thOrough and excellent labour. We really do not know how St. Olave's will be able to get on without him. In conclusion we would like to offer our warmest thanks to those authors who have preserved the " Peterite " from being a mere chronicle. We trust that in future terms their numbers will rise and that the Muse has come, not ingloriously, to dwell for ever in these pages. ,
OXFORD LETTER.
430
OXFORD LETTER. EXETER COLLEGE,
December, 1919. DEAR EDITORS,
It is with some diffidence that I attempt to relate the doings of Old Peterites here, particularly as there is one whom I feel to be much better fitted than I for the task. I refer to Darling, who is the eldest representative of the School now in residence. He returned to the " House " last January, after 42 years absence in the Army,—an institution, he tells me, he was extremely glad to get out of. Being essentially a hater of war he much prefers true Peace in the life at Oxford. Russell is at Worcester, and his zeal for Hockey led him to practise the gentle art in his rooms till after midnight ; thereby, he tells me, causing a slight fracas with the authorities. He is seen most mornings in the " George Cafe," garbed in a waistcoat of dazzling hue, and spends his spare time on the links making laudable efforts to hit a golf ball. Gilbert and Norwood are upholding the School dignity at Hertford. The former represents his College in the " Rugger " team, and regularly attends all debates at the Union, of which he is an ardent supporter. He tells me that he has been suffering from acute " wind-up " about " Divvers." I hear that Norwood has abandoned Rugger in favour . of Hockey, and is a shining light of his College XI., as was shown by the skill he displayed in shooting goals in a certain intercollege match we wot of. It is rumoured that he has been trying to import a piano into his rooms, but hitherto his efforts in that direction have been in vain. A. G. Wilson is hoping to come up to B.N.C. to read medicine next term ; if -he can persuade the R.A.F. to release him by then. We are looking forward to welcoming him as a further addition to our numbers. Wishing the School every success in footer this season, and in everything else, •
I remain, Yours sincerely, ICARUS. •
FOOTBALL CHARACTERS.
431
FOOTBALL NEWS. Beginning the season, as we did, with only three old colours, our prospects were not of the brightest. However, everyone set to with a will, and the result was distinctly creditable. Out of the six school matches on the card we have lost only oneAmpleforth. The latter came down with a great reputation, and though we made no pretensions to greatness, the game was an even one, and we were only defeated by the speed of 'their right wing. Though we had one of the youngest teams for many years, we were not lacking in weight : this, combined with a most commendable attention to training, resulted in the pack developing into a really good one. If they seldom broke up soon enough to be much use to their outsides, they did their own work with tremendous zeal : as a rule they got the ball more often than their opponents, and in the loose the honours always went their way. The outsides, although they played one or two good games, were disappointing. Settling down together early, they looked like being quite good : as the season went on, it became apparent that they were lacking in two essentials—pace and initiative. Though they ran straight, they seldom remembered to look for an opening before receiving the ball, and at critical times simple passes were dropped. Against Leeds and Pocklington they reminded us of our best days and they always shone when defending. All the team can look back on the season with satisfaction, and it was a personal triumph for Morris and Reed. We owe much, too, to Mr. King and Mr. Goolden.
FOOTBALL CHARACTERS. P. R. MORRIS (Captain) : 1917-1918. A first-rate scrum half. Has had to play stand-off half, and though hardly quick enough off the mark for that position, he seldom failed to get the three-quarter line going. His saving and tackling were quite a feature of the season, and the way in which he got across and helped his wings, while his centres looked idly on, was invaluable. Has been a good captain and invariably played himself to a stand-still. M. E. REED (Secretary) : 1917-1918. A real good forward. A hard worker, clever dribbler and sound tackler, he was always in the van. Though on the short side, he was very good on the line out, and often got his—three-quarter line going. No better forward played against in' this year.
FOOTBALL CHARACTERS.
432
1918. A useful forward in the loose •and on the line-out. Inclined to give " sloppy " passes, and though not fast was often seen leading a forward rush.
K. H. RHODES,
H. G. CRAWSHAW, 1919. A very useful three-quarter. His kicking was often of great help to the side, and he was very good at cutting in, but was not fast enough to make the best use of this. If he will show more dash he will be good. R. A. WILKINSON, 1919. At his best, a good forward. A splendid tackler and good dribbler, he only wants strength and weight to be really good. Had some off-days, but there was no mistaking his ability when in form. J. E. MORTON, 1919. As hooker for the side has been very successful. He is a keen tackler and good dribbler and was often prominent in the loose. thoroughly sound allround forward, who worked hard from start to finish. F. S. WOOD, 1919. Has shown magnificent defence in every match, his stopping of rushes being splendid. He played scrum half and was slow in getting the ball out, and often passed straight to his other half, instead of in front of him, in this way holding up the threequarter line. J. B. DAVIS, 1919. A fast wing threequarter. The only " opportunist " on the side, and did something in every match. Would be wise to use his pace more, rather than to pull up and perform a kind of grotesque war-dance round his opponent. Improved much in defence, and is a splendid kick. J. B. GEDGE, 1919. A sound threequarter. Took the ball as a rule when moving fast : rather lacking in enterprise, and did not give his passes too well. A splendid tackler of all that came his way. He took some stopping if he made up his mind to go for the line. K. FOSTER, 1919. Did a tremendous lot of work in the scrum. As the season advanced he fined down, and became useful in the line-out, and was known to dribble. A little clumsy with his hands, but could fight his way on if he had the ball. W. D. BADDELEY, 1919. A good honest worker, who was always going his hardest. Though not a clever forward, he was a most useful scrummager, and always in the thick of it. W. L. STANDLY, A fast and strong forward, though not good in the scrum. He dribbled well and tackled hard, and was a difficult man to stop. Too fond of running at a man, instead of going through the obvious opening.
FOOTBALL MATCHES.
433
G. H. MACK. A light forward of much promise. Did some very good saving, and often dribbled well. Did his share of hard work too. B. A. GRAY. Played wing threequarter with some success. Was fast, but none too safe with his hands. Not good in defence, but shows much promise. G. H. SPINK. A speedy wing threequarter, who was tried at full-back. Is a most promising player. R. PEEL. A cool full-back. If he were not so lethargic he would make a good threequarter, though he still gives his passes badly. Did not give himself a fair chance, as he was off football and away at important times. L. ELIOT-SMITH and 0. B. JEPSON also played in the XV., and are both promising forwards.
FOOTBALL MATCHES. ST. PETER'S SCHOOL V. LEEDS GRAMMAR SCHOOL. Nov. 5th. This match was played in adverse weather conditions. The ball was heavy and the ground sticky, but the School backs very soon got away for Peel to score. Davis converted with an excellent kick. Tries were then scored in quick succession by Gedge, Davis and Reed. Half-time score : York, 21 Leeds, o. The second half was started by a good try by Gedge. Davis failed to convert this, and later to kick a penalty. Tries were scored, later, by Crawshaw and Davis. Final score : St. Peter's, 3 goals, 5 tries (3o points) ; Leeds, o. ST. PETER'S V. ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, NEWCASTLE. This match was played at Newcastle, on Saturday, November 22nd, with a high wind blowing. The St. Peter's backs were slow to adapt themselves to the weather conditions and the forwards to the sticky ground, and Newcastle scored first. Following this, St. Peter's carried the ball up the field and the backs after some good passing scored. The kick by Crawshaw was successful. The School scored twice more in the first half. Half-time : St. Peter's, 3 goals, I try (18 pts) ; Newcastle, I try (3 pts.). The second half saw a determined attack by Newcastle, which ended in their scrum half scoring far out. In this half St. Peter's scored three times, only one kick (by Crawshaw) being successful. Final score : St. Peter's, 4 goals, 3 tries (29 pts.) ; Newcastle, 2 tries (6 pts.).
I
434
FOOTBALL MATCHES. ST. PETER'S SCHOOL V. AMPLEFORTH COLLEGE.
This match was played at York on Saturday, November 29th, and an evenly contested match resulted. Play at the start settled down in mid-field.. Then the Ampleforth threequarter line got going, and after ten minutes' play Crawford scored right out. Wood, the home half-back, was hurt, and retired for some time, during which Ampleforth scored again, and at half-time were leading by II points to nil. In the second half there was little to choose between the sides. Ampleforth got the ball more often than their opponents, but thanks to brilliant tackling by the home side their efforts as a rule were abortive. Ampleforth had a quite brilliant right wing, up to which they consistently played, and eventually Crawford had crossed the home line, and a goal was kicked. For Ampleforth Fitzgerald and Crawford were the best, and Reed and Morris on the home side. Result :Ampleforth College, 2 goals, 2 tries (16 pts.) ; St. Peter's School, nil. ST. PETER'S SCHOOL V. POCKLINGTON SCHOOL.
This match was played at Pocklington on Saturday, October 18th, and resulted in a win for the,School. The scorers for St. Peter's were Gray (four tries), Davis (four tries), Morris (two tries), Gedge (one try). Davis kicked one goal. Result : St. Peter's, i goal, io tries (35 pts.) ; Pocklington nil. ST. PETER'S SCHOOL V. 53RD BATT. GORDON HIGHLANDERS.
Played at York on Saturday, October nth. The visitors were much the heavier side, but less together than the School, and after a determined attack by the boys in the first ten minutes, Davis kicked a goal from a penalty. The School were getting possession of the ball in the scrummages, and some very good passing movements were shown by their threequarters, and after some scrambling play, Crawshaw scored far out. At half-time the score was 6 points to nil in favour of the School. In the second half the soldiers settled down better, and Headlam scored a good try from which a goal was kicked. They continued to press, but determined work by the School in which Reed, Wilkinson, and Wood were prominent, kept them out. Then the School came away, and a brilliant movement which sent the ball right along the threequarter line saw Spink dashing for the line. When tackled he passed to Crawshaw, who had no difficulty in scoring just on close of time. Morris made a brilliant dash for the line, and an opening for Crawshaw, who scored once more. Result :—
CORRESPONDENCE.
St. Peter's 2 goals (I penalty), landers, 1 goal (5 pts.).
2
435
tries (14 pts.) ; Gordon High-
ST. PETER'S SCHOOL v. YORKSHIRE WANDERERS. Wednesday, October 22nd. H. F. S. Gedge, last year's Captain, captained a very strong side against the School. They were superior in both departments, and forced the pace throughout the game. The School put up a very strong defence and succeeded in scoring two goals and an unconverted try. Final score : Wanderers, 41 pts. ; School, 13 pts . .
CORRESPONDENCE. HAREHILLS LODGE, CHAPELTOWN, LEEDS,
August 31st, 1919. To the Editors of the " Peterite." DEAR SIRS,
May I have space to make a few remarks in regard to the O.P. Dinner held at York on June 28th, last. First I should like to thank the Dinner Committee on behalf of the O.P.'s present upon the excellent arrangements which contributed to such a very happy evening, and also to congratulate them upon the innovation of holding the Dinner on the night of the Oki Peterite " Cricket Match. May this become an established custom. One thing only seemed lacking at the Dinner. There was no rendering of a School Song. Have we a School Song ? Perhaps someone can enlighten me in your columns. I, personally, have not heard of .one, but my period at the School was probably unfortunate in this respect, as I feel it has not always been the case. If that is so I would respectfully suggest to the Powers that be that the Song be revived and sung at all important School and Old Boys' functions. If there is no Song, that can soon be remedied. There is no lack of musical talent in the School, and no composer could have a more worthy subject. I am told by Old Boys of other Schools that nothing appeals to them more upon visiting their old School than to join in the Song they used to sing as a boy.
436
CORRESPONDENCE.
Then apparently it was the custom at one time to wear the O.P. Colours at the Dinner instead of the conventional Black Bow. This was a pretty custom which should not be allowed to die out. Certain senior Old Boys wore the colours, and some juniors intimated to me they would have done likewise had they known of the old custom. If the Dinner Committee think it desirable that this custom be more fully observed an intimation to that effect could be put on the invitations and an indication of the source from where the Ribbon is obtained. In conclusion may I suggest to the Dinner Committee that in future years invitations be issued earlier and that a preliminary notice be given in the Easter term or March issue of the " Peterite." It is not always possible for distant O.P.'s to get to York for a day or two without good notice. One hears that the Old Boys' Football Match this term is to be held on the last day of the Theatricals. This was the usual custom years ago, and it is hoped in the future it will always be so. I apologise for taking up so much space, but I am putting forward the views of a few Old Boys who are anxious that the next and succeeding Dinners are, if possible, even more successful than the last. Yours faithfully, J. S. DENBY. [ED. NOTE.-There is a School Song, the words of which were written in Latin by Bishop Browne, and the music by G. F. Tendall, Esq.]
ST. PETER'S SCHOOL, YORK, 8/xi "1919.
DEAR SIR, I should like to express the thanks of the team to Mr. Tendall for all the time and trouble he has devoted to the coaching of the team and for his presence at away matches, where he has been an inspiration to the side. Our thanks are also due to the entire staff for the readiness in taking games and for their regular support on the touch-line. Our especial thanks are due to Mr. King. and Mr. Goolden, who have on several occasions played for the School. Yours, etc., P. R. MORRIS, Captain of Football.
MUSICAL SOCIETY.
437
ST. PETER'S SCHOOL, YORK,
12/12/1919. DEAR EDITOR, May I trespass on yot r valuable spz ce to convey many thanks to Mr. Toyne for his kindness and gene rosity in presenting to the School as a Peace Offering (as he aptly describes it) his own squash racquets court. I may . say that it has already been widely appreciated and I think that I am correct in saying that the present interest in squash racquets will be even more marked next term. I am, Yours sincerely, C. PRIOR, Secretary.
We quote the following appreciation from our French contemporary the Journal des Roches : L'ecole anglaise est un milieu fort et virile, discipline et hierachise. Le petit francais individualiste y trouve des lecons que ne donnent les livres. Voici ce qu'un de nos stagiaires ecrit : " Le cricket pour les Anglais est un jeu epatant. Quelle discipline dans les jeux, gymnastique classes, dortoirs Il y en a plus qu'aux Roches. . . . Maintenant je me rends compt de ce que c'est que la fonction d'un bon capitaine. Note : Stagiaires, comme Beytout et Legefidre. !
MUSICAL SOCIETY. Thanks entirely to the indefatigable energies of Mr. Peachment, the Musical Society has enjoyed its usual prosperity this term. Besides the ordinary Pupils' Concerts, we have been favoured with another visit of Miss Corrie, whose visits are always appreciated to the full. This time, Mr. Reginald Whitehouse accompanied her and gave some masterly violin recitals. We should like to take this opportunity of thanking them for the great treat they gave us. On the whole, the meetings of the Society have been well attended, but a certain levity seems to be appearing, which we should like to see nipped in the bud. We look forward with confidence to many successful meetings next term. ENTHUSIASTS.
43 8
BOAT CLUB.
BOAT CLUB. BOAT CLUB FUND.-FINANCIAL STATEMENT.
L s. d
RECEIPTS.
Already notified Lt.-Col. H. T. McLellan Sons •• H. Tomlinson, Esq .. J. W. Crossley, Esq. H. B. Whitby, Esq. . H. W. Liddle, Esq. (set of 4 oars) .. "
44
"
3
6
2
0
c
0
10
0
I
I
0
5 2
o, c 2
EXPENDITURE.
;/:,
S.
of two second-hand cedar clinker fours 50 0 „ purchase of 8 extra detachable fixed seats 4 two sets of oars .. 8 16 estimated carriage of above from Oxford 13 0
To
d.
purchase
„
0
0
0
„
4
8
59 4 13 15
Adverse Balance at Bank
6 6 1.,73
;
0
0
673 0 0 A. J. A.
Audited and found correct, S. M. TOYNE.
WOODCOCK,
Hon. Treasurer, St. Peter's Sch. Boat Club Fund.
As will be seen from the above financial statement there is a deficit of 15s. 6d. on the recent purchase. In addition to these expenses it will be necessary to carry out repairs to the old clinker fours now in the boat house, estimated at £ 12, before we can consider that we are satisfactorily equipped for the very full programme of races which has been arranged for next term. The fund is still open for subscriptions and we are sure that it is only necessary to draw the attention of Old Peterites to the above facts in order that there may be a satisfactory response. The deficit is at present being met from the Games' Club Fund, but must be replaced before March, 1920. Cheques should be made payable to the Hon. Treas., A. J. A. Woodcock, Esq., St. Peter's School, York.
PETERITE WAR MEMORIAL. Below is a statement of the accounts of the War Memorial. It will be seen that a sum of 500 is required to complete the schemes, which were unanimously adopted at the General Meeting in March. It is hoped that when the Fund has so nearly reached the limit that a great effort will be made to raise the total, so that no work should be left in an incomplete state. The Yeld Testimonial, which was started conjointly in 1917, was allocated £550 (including the 5() for the portrait).
VALETE.
439 s. d.
TOTAL SUBSCRIPTIONS and Interest on War Stock and at Bank . •• .. •• Less Veld Testimonial EXPENSES TO DATE, October 12th, 1919— Paid in Scholarships .. •• 944 War Bonds Printing, Advertisements, etc...
s. d. 2218 15 4
550 6o o o goo 0 36 7 8 1 546 7 8
TOTAL in hand
••
£672 7 8 s. d.
TOTAL ASSETS.. Cash at Bank • • War Stock, £944. valued at Promises (unpaid)
672 7 8 900 0 0 54 0 0 1626 7 8
ESTIMATED EXPENSESChapel Scheme .. •• .. Scholarships still due •• Big Hall (partially completed)
. 200 0 0 .. i8 o o .. 1700 0 0 £20 80
0 0
All particulars can be obtained from J. S. Denby, Esq., Hon. Sec., Harehills Lodge, Chapeltown, Leeds. All subscriptions should be sent to r. M. Toyne, Esq., Hon. Treasurer, Peterite War Memorial, St. Peter's School, York. J. S. DENBY, Hon. Sec. S. M. TOYNE, Hon. Treas.
October 12th, 1919.
VALETE. School House. Head Monitor. R. E. F. TENDALL. Upper VI. 1st XI., 1917-18-19 ; Captain, 1919. 1st XI. 1918-19 ; Captain, 1919. 1st XV., 1918-19. Sergeant in the O.T.C. Editor of the " Peterite.' F. H. BUTTERFIELD. 1913-19. School House. School Monitor:. VI. Modern. 1st XV., 1917-18-19. 1st XI. Hockey, 191819 ; 1st XI., 1919. C.S.M. in O.T.C. Victor Ludorum. 1914-19.
440
VALETE.
Clifton Grove. School Monitor. Head of Clifton, Grove. Upper V. Modern. 2nd XV., 1918-19. Played for 1st XV. 1918-19. Clifton Grove IV., 1917-18. Librarian. Corporal of Band in O.T.C. E. W. GILBERT. 1914-19. School House. School Monitor. Upper VI. 2nd XI., 1919. Played for 2nd XV. 1918-19. Editor of the " Peterite. Librarian. L./Cpl. in O.T.C. W. G. PLATT. 1913-19. Dayboy. School Monitor. Lower VI. Modern. 1st XI., 1918-19. 1st XI. Hockey, 1918-19. Librarian. L./Cpl. in O.T.C. T. H. DOBSON. 1915-19. School House. School Monitor. Upper V. Classical. 1st XV., 1918-19. 2nd XI., 1919. Played for 1st XI. Hockey, 1916-17. Rowed for School House IV., 1919. Cpl. in O.T.C. 1915-19. Clifton Manor. School Monitor. JOHNSTON. G. J. Head of - Clifton Manor. Lower VI. Modern. 1st XI., 1918-19. 2nd XV., 1917-18-19. Played for 1st XV., 1918-19. Clifton Grove IV., 1917-18-19. Shooting Cup, 1919. Squash Cup, 1919. J. RAMSDEN. 1915-19. School House. Upper V. Modern. 2nd XI., 1917-18-19. Played for 1st XV., 1917-18. 2nd XV., 1917-18-19. Played for 1st XI. Hockey, 1918. Choir. W. G. L. DEL'-)RioL. 1917-19. School House. B2. 2nd XV., 1918-19. Choir. R. SCRUTON. Dayboy. A2. A. H. NISBET. Clifton Grove. A3. Played for 1st XI., 1919. 2nd XI. Colour. R. H. JENKINS. Clifton Grove. B2. Played for 2nd XI., 1919. Grove House Colours. L. C. BORDER. Clifton Rise. Bi. S. THOMAS. Clifton Grove. B2. Grove House Colour, 1919. J. STANCLIFFE. Dayboy. B2. W. BUCKLE. School House. B2. Played for School House XV., 1919. H. T. TAYLOR. School House. B2. Played for School House XV., 1919. R. P. ELSTON. Clifton Grove. Br. Rowed in Grove IV. and played in Grove XV. - SIMCOE. Dayboy. CI. G. A. LOMAS. Clifton Rise. CI. R. G. CLARK. Clifton Rise. C2.
T. WATSON. 1915-19.
'
ST. PETER'S JUNIOR SCHOOL.
441
SALVETE. '
School House.
Day-boys.
Clifton Grove.
T. W. P. Cadell ma. H. W. Judge. A. A. Collins. J. Scholefield mi. H. D. Cadell mi. J. C. Pole. W. Coates mi. J. Milne-Redhead. W. Davey ma. C. R. S. Morris mi. H. Davey mi. C. W. Russell. H. M. Morris terts. E. E. Wildsmith mi. M. Storrs Fox. A. B. M. Smith mi. D. Cameron. J. J. Hill. G. D. Fletcher. C. Audaer. T. Yates mi. L. W. Parry. A. M. Wood terts. S. Bowman. R. F. Richards. J. G. Troop. J. G. Rodgers. S. J. Hunt.
Clifton Rise. P. B. Gunn. G. Barnsley.
Clifton Manor. H. D. Stephens-Clarkson. J. Ladd. G. W. Perry. H. J. Maclure. G. H. Roberts. J. P. Lees. M. Le Gendre. L. Beytout.
ST. PETER'S JUNIOR SCHOOL. The borders of the Junior School have again been enlarged, St. Helen's, the former boarding house of the York College for Girls, having been taken over under the name of St. Wilfrid's. All success to Capt. and Mrs. Badgley in their new house. The School has again had a most fortunate term in the important matter of health ; the most serious forms of illness have been slight colds and—chilblains. In School a good term's work has been done. In the Football field three most energetic games have been played on most of the half-holidays ; one of " Rugger " for the older boys and two of " Soccer " for the younger. In the " Gym.," in addition to the usual Physical Drill, Boxing is being taken up with great enthusiasm. Some of the encounters, when permission was given to " go as you please," have been fast and furious.
442
THE ARMY OF OCCUPATION. SALVETE.
,
Smith, C. A. Buchanan, W. H. Leask, L. Sola, H. S. Cadell, F. E. D. MacIldowie, J. D. Fletcher, E. H. Pearson, M. R. Sola, F. V. Symmons, B. E. • Perry, P. M. Golden, H. Vowles, H. H. Rymer, P. K. Harwood, T. Hodgson, B. D. Smith, G. D. VALETE. Storrs-Fox, H. H. Bailey, R. A. Forsyth, W. D. Forsyth, J. W. A. G. Storrs-Fox, P. Clarke, C. W. Greenwood, H. D. F. Troop, J. G. Crombie, C. F. (to St. Peter's).
ALCUIN HOUSE NEWS. SALVETE. VALETE. Burnaby, C. D. K Clarke, S. Haselwood, D. Green, S. Milner, H. G. F. .Wanhill, G. W. Sturgeon, B. Mr. Procter kindly treated the School to a visit to Bostock and Wombell's Menagerie, on what was a red-letter day for the boys. The Sports, whin were mentioned in our last number, proved very successful, and again we must record that all thanks are due to Mrs. Milner for her kindness in making rri such an enjoyable event.
THE ARMY OF OCCUPATION. It is not pleasant to realise on a cool Sunday evening in Egypt that one is on " duty " and so is condemned to several hours in a stuffy office waiting for urgent messages which will only come through if by any chance one goes out. It is however an ill wind, etc., as the combination of plenty of tobacco and an old copy of the " Peterite " open at the old, old appeal for contributions has tempted me to try to help the Editors. I thought that probably everyone at home has heard as many stories of blood and thunder as they want, but perhaps they have not heard the lighter side of things, how we have amused
THE ARMY OF OCCUPATION.
443
ourselves since the Armistice just a year ago. The Austrian Armistice found us in Northern Italy, quite a pleasant spot, though rather far from home, and so very much thrown on one's own resources for amusements. It was essential, of course, to get something going for the men. This was not hard, however, as we had a good organisation already and fortunately Thomas A. is very conservative in his ideas.' The usual Battn. and Brigade Sports and Soccer Leagues were enlarged and competitions arranged throughout the whole Expeditionary Force. I am sorry to say that Rugger was never a success, and even the most hardened enthusiast must resign himself to Soccer in the Army. Running, both long-distance and sprinting, is immensely popular, and Boxing also has many followers. Everything went with a great swing, but when all had been finished there was still some time to wait, and of course it was not possible to repeat the same events witU the same entries. Just about Christmas the idea of a Race Meeting was brought up, adopted, and put into effect almost in the same breath. These were a huge success : I say " these " because they became regular events. Everyone who had a horse or a mule which could be guaranteed not to fall down dead, an occurrence not unknown, fancied it for some race or other and trained it religiously in secret. The results did not always justify the amount of care spent on the stable, but there were always plenty of excuses and the same animal generally came on the scene again, but under a different name. Betting was legalised by running a Totalisator, and getting a modest dollar on was the nearest approach to a line-out scrum that I have seen. By the end of January men were getting demobilised quickly and sports of all kinds slacked off. A few favoured ones, of whom Imas one, managed to make friends with wealthy Italians, and spent some very enjoyable week-ends down on the Venetian lagoons " chasing the duck " as the local inhabitants put it. We never got very big bags, but all the same had a first-rate time and saw more duck than we are ever likely to see again in our lives. April came, and with it great changes, as we now had to go to the units definitely selected for the Army of Occupation. I myself went to a battalion which was down for the wilds of Albania. We found when we got there that there was absolutely nothing to do. Miles away from anywhere, with no other British troops but ourselves, where the local inhabitants still held to the old idea " Thy father slew mine, now will I slay thee," we found our style rather cramped. The inevitable Football came out and we played inter-regimental games and
444
THE ARMY OF OCCUPATION.
occasionally matches with the French, a battalion of Chasseurs Alpins, who were also stationed there. In the end we accomplished rather a triumph as the Convent at Scutari made a collection and came to us asking us to buy balls for the strange game we played. I hope that they got them, as in May we were ordered to Egypt, and left, I must say not altogether with feelings of regret. Upon our arrival in Egypt we were sent to a delightful camp situated right on the shores of the Mediterranean ; even though we were in tents on the sand the chance of bathing three or four times a day far out-weighed the disadvantages. It was remarkable to notice the high standard of swimming since very many of the men came from towns, and yet, on bathing parades, there was hardly anyone to be found in the shallows. Football was a bit too much even for us, as the average temperature in the shade was 90-95 degrees. Cricket proved more difficult to run than we had anticipated, as, though it was easy to get quite a respectable wicket the outfield was too awful for words. Any hit that was not skied stopped in about ten yards. One day I batted for 2 hours and only got 74 runs, and of these 66 were singles. There certainly are some quite good grounds, but they cost a lot to keep up and are mostly reserved for the regular teams. Every Saturday there were races at Alexandria in the summer, and at Cairo in the winter season, but these are not a great attraction as the horses do not run according to form, but, it is said, according to arrangement. At anyrate I know very few soldiers won much unless they had the sense to stick to their winnings after a lucky flutter. At the principal towns most excellent clubs are run. Here you get polo, tennis, squash-racquets, and golf, in addition to the team " games. Some of the stations were sufficiently near to enable all who wanted to play there, but, as a rule, tennis is the standby of officers, and football of the men. Most Indian Regiments run hockey, and a very fast game it is. It has not been adopted much by British units, as it means carrying extra kit, but I have never had any difficulty in getting a game. This sums up the past year as far as my experiences go, though obviously others may have had very different conditions and so may not agree. Without in any way posing as an infallible guide I make the following suggestions to those who are coming out East, either as Civil Servants or with the Army, and wish to make the most of the opportunities for sport. It is essential to play Soccer, Hockey, and Cricket, as these are the three major team " games.
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Rugger and Fives are not often met, whilst Boating is so rare that it can almost be given up as hopelessly unattainable. Tennis is played almost universally. Running is not considered by itself, as it nearly always is the result of playing games, and not the cause. Swimming also comes in this class as it is naturally associated with hot climates. Golf has as many followers in proportion as at home whenever courses are within reach. Squash is played keenly at all the clubs. Even Badmington is not to be despised as an indoor game. Last, but not least, comes everything connected with riding or shooting. Wherever men collect the conversation always seems to turn to these two topics' Finally, I strongly advise everyone to cultivate the gentle accomplishments of bridge, music, and dancing. They can hardly be classified under the heading of Sports, but in a small colony have much more importance than at home. C. L. ARMSTRONG.
ADDLED ADS. I.—THE SEA-SIDE RESORT. SEA-BREEZES AND SUNSHINE AT SCARBOROUGH. Matilda Biffkin had been ill for years. Her parents had tried every remedy displayed upon the hoardings, but in vain. A course of Dr. Pilliams had left her with a permanent blush, which was rather unbecoming. The famous prescription of Mr. Screecham had merely stimulated a morbid craving for Grand Opera at a guinea a box. The sad fate in store for Matilda became daily more plain to see. So did Matilda. Finally Mr. Biffkin, senr., whose favourite poem was " Eugene Aram," and who laboured under the delusion that the Aram family were still in business, decided that Knaresborough would be good for Matilda's health. Early one morning, therefore, he proceeded to King's Cross in a cab, with Matilda inside, and her luggage outside. (The Biffkins are old-fashioned, almost conventional, in these matters). They arrived just as a crowded excursion train was about to start for the better advertised health resorts of the North, and Mr. Biffkin joined a long and perspiring queue in the booking-office. Arriving finally at the mouth of the confessional, he modestly murmured " Knaresborough." But the booking-clerk, who had already issued two hundred and seventeen tickets to Scarborough, and was only prevented by the shape
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RIGAUDON.
of his outlet from realising that he was doomed to issue three hundred and forty-six more before the train started, regarded this as a mere aberration on Mr. Biffkin's part, and firmly but silently presented him also with a ticket for Scarborough. It was only when he emerged into the comparative daylight of the platform that he discovered, from the united evidence of the statement on the ticket and the smallness of his change, that an error had been made. However, philosophically reflecting that, whether she went to Knaresborough or Scarborough, Matilda would in either case be a good two hundred miles away, Mr. Biffkin conducted her to a compartment. Punctual to the time scheduled for its arrival at Finsbury Park, the train drew out of King's Cross, and Matilda was soon passing rapidly through that typical midland scenery whose lack of violent contours is so welcome to ocean travellers recovering from sea-sickness. On arriving at York, where she had to change trains, unnerved perhaps by the absence from the station walls of Sunny Jim, beneficent pen-nibs, and generous blots of ink, when told by a porter to go to platform 5N, she proceeded instead to platform 4S, and did not discover her mistake till she alighted at Leeds. Collecting her few remaining wits, and inspired by a last unexpected gleam of commonsense, she expired before leaving the station. The effect upon her health of the scenery, the climate, and the numerous attractions of Scarborough, is thus seen to have been, in the profoundest sense of the word, immeasurable.
RIGAUDON. The garden is lit with fairy lights, Come now and dance with me ; Sweet is the air on summer nights And the breeze and the scent of the sea. The music flows in rhythmic waves, Like the waves on the glimmering sea, And the leaves on the trees vibrate in the breeze ; Come now, and dance with me. This is surely a dream of those far-off days When the Dyads danced in the glen, And the Goat-foot piped his wonderful lays In the times when gods were men.
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The garden was lit with fairy lights, And you came and danced with me ; And I think of you often on lonely nights, And the breeze and the scent of the sea. HYPERIDON. SONG TO THE SUMMER-NIGHT. (From the French). The wan moon's thrilling glow o'er-spreads the deep, A mirror with a glorious golden gleam ; A nightingale alone, while all things sleep Pours out his throbbing lay, as in a dream. In the green boughs mysterious blows the wind No more : now by the moon its voice is stilled ; And kisses from the silent blue stars find Their way through leaves which droop half-closed, grief filled. How soothing, near the sea, to muse on Death When stern Reality is lulled to sleep. 'Neath the soft rustling scarce-is felt a breath When transformations move the forest deep. Each leaf is lost in finest haze. The dew From the dark azure sky falls crystal, cool ; Each lily's heart's adorned with pearls a-new The while it floats upon the flower-decked pool. No breath, voice, stir, the darkness yields ; all's still Save when, far in the woods, there leaps and sings Dashing on stony bed a headlong rill Then, at the cascade's fall, the echo rings. SKRIBE.
PUBLIC SCHOOL VERSE. It is intended to publish about once a year an anthology of the best serious verse written at Public Schools, the frequency of publication depending on the amount and quality of what is sent us. We, the prospective Editors, cordially invite contributions of serious verse, original or translated, of all kinds : everyone who has not yet left school is eligible, and we hope to hear from younger as well as older contributors.
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NOTES AND ITEMS.
Mr. John Masefield will write a preface to the first volume. Arrangements have been made with a first class London Publisher to produce the anthology, provided that the material is good enough : if it is not, we shall not publish at all ; but we have every reason to expect that we shall not be disappointed. It is not necessary that contributions should be typewritten ; but they should be written clearly and sent in as soon as possible, so as to lighten the Editor's task. If intended for the first volume they must be sent in before January 7th, 1920, and addressed to— The Editors of " PUBLIC SCHOOL VERSE," C/O HOLYWELL PRESS, OXFORD. No payment will be made for contributions, and unaccepted manuscripts cannot be returned unless a stamped addressed envelope be enclosed. MARTIN GILKES. RICHARD HUGHES. HUGH LYON.
NOTES AND ITEMS. We congratulate R. A. Wilkinson, H. G. Crawshaw, J. E. Morton, F. S. Wood, J. B. Davis, J. B. Gedge, K. Foster, and W. D. Baddeley, on receiving their School Football Colours. We congratulate W. L. Standley, G. H. H. Mack, G. Spink, and 0. B. Jepson on receiving their znd XV. Colours. The new School Monitors this term are F. J. Mann, R. A. Wilkinson, and B. A. Gray. Heartiest congratulations to E. W. Gilbert on his West Riding Scholarship. We would like, en passant, to issue a warning to Senor Capablanca that soon he will not dare to show his face at St. Peter's. Many thanks to Mr. Beach for his interest and encouragement. Moreover, in spite of the eclipse in England as a result of Carpentier's victory, enthusiasm for boxing has been in full flood this term. We trust that the institution of a house magazine at the Rise will not divert contributions from the " Peterite." Otherwise we wish it every success.
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In O.T.C. we have been working steadily this term, but there is nothing special to record beyond the prospect of a Field Day at Poppleton.
PROMOTIONS. Lieut. R. Loy Wilcox, R.A.M.C., to be Captain.
OBITUARY NOTICE. B. F. MULCASTER,
ESQ.
We regret to announce the death, at the age of 62, of Mr. Bernard Frederick Mulcaster, of io, Eldon Place, Newcastle. He was the youngest son of the late Mr. J. P. Mulcaster, of Benwell, and he was educated at St. Peter's. He was keenly interested in sport, particularly in aquatics and coursing, and was well known in musical and theatrical circles.