D. Oliver played in the Public Schools National Squash Championship at Wimbledon in the holidays. He reached the third round, losing at that stage to Hirsh (K.C.S., Wimbledon), 1-9, 9 -4, 10-9, 9 - 6. In the first round he beat Warner (Hurstpierpoint), 9-0, 9-2, 9 -2. His opponent in the second round was Burberry (Repton), whom he defeated 9-4, 9-3, 9-4.
LECTURES AND ENTERTAINMENTS On 28th February, Mr. Filshire visited the School and gave a talk on the work of the R.S.P.C.A. Mr. Filshire not only gave us many useful hints relating to the care of domestic pets, but told us about the cruelties which thoughtless people can inflict upon animals. Foxhunting, he alleged, is a particularly cruel sport, and he deplored the furtive reintroduction of cock-fighting into Great Britain. We learnt that this vicious pastime is commonly indulged in in Northern France, where one keeper had fifty cocks in training! The sport is also to be found in parts of Northumberland, although the police are active in its suppression. He urged the abolition of spring-traps, which are capable of causing untold pain to animals, especially rabbits and hares. He told us that all too frequently dogs and cats are maimed by these traps. We are grateful to him for his interesting talk, and for the literature which was subsequently made available in the Library. Lt.-Cmdr. Bailey, R.N., addressed the School on the 10th February. His subject was "The Technical Branches of the Royal Navy." For those who may have been contemplating the Navy as a career Lt.-Cmdr. Bailey's talk was especially interesting. But, as is so frequently emphasised, it is an education to us all to hear about "the other man's job." We are most grateful for this opportunity to hear about the Navy from first-hand. The talk was followed by an exciting film, consisting of news-reel shots taken during actual actions. The intensity, danger, and excitement of the battles was admirably conveyed by the film. On the 25th February a careers talk was given to the Fifth and Sixth Forms on the subject of "Railways." The speaker was Mr. J. E. M. Roberts, Passenger Manager of the L.N.E.R. Mr. Roberts dealt very ably with his subject, but made it clear that only those who are really keen should consider the Railway as a career. Promotion, he maintained, depends solely on merit. But suitable men have the very best prospects of promotion in very fascinating work. He gave us an account of his own work with the L.N.E.R., and told us of the long hours of hard work which have to be done so that the Railways may function adequately. Perhaps the most complex task is the compilation of a time-table, which he likened to a crossword puzzle "on a grand scale." His talk may well have influenced many boys in the choice of their careers. It certainly gave us an insight into this most important branch of modern transport. 23
