THE PETERITE Va. XLI
FEBRUARY, 1949
No. 320
EDITORIAL Only the broadcast from the School Chapel on Tuesday, the 26th October, broke into the normal activities of the Christmas Term as they are reviewed in the following pages. The broadcast—a "live" one—was one of the B.B.C. series "Where they Sing" in the North of England Programme, and consisted of choir and congregational singing, prefaced by a brief introduction of the School by the Headmaster. We do not propose to venture here any comments on a performance which had so vast an audience, and will content ourselves with the hope that we did justice to an important occasion. Otherwise the term was, we believe, productive of much solid work in preparation for those two institutions upon which sentence of extinction has been passed—the School and Higher Certificate Examinations. It is a chastening thought that the Midsummer Examination of 1949 will be the last conducted entirely on the traditional lines. In the following year changes, notably the muchdisputed age-limit of 16, will have been introduced, and the process of bridging the transition will have begun; and by 1951 the change will have been effected. "School Cert." and "Higher", whose bleak shadows have darkened the path of otherwise carefree schoolboys for more than forty years, will be no more. In their place we shall have 'A General Certificate of Education', with papers at 'Ordinary', `Advanced', and 'Scholarship' levels and a latitude in the choice of the subjects (or subject) in which we wish to be examined which will seem unbelievable to those accustomed to the rigid regulations of the old dispensation. How far this liberty will prove illusory and be circumscribed by the requirements of universities and professional bodies remains to be seen. At present we only see through a glass, darkly, and we must await events. But the schools, as so many other institutions in this age of rapid change, are quickly nearing an important turning point on the road. In what direction and to what goal it will lead us is a matter for speculation. What is certain is that for many of us a profound readjustment of our ideas will be necessary. However, we are becoming inured to the process. The revival of a London Old Peterite dinner, the first since 1938, is recorded elsewhere in this issue. Its success is another indication that the O.P. Club, whose activities were necessarily dormant during the war, has renewed its old vigour. In London and its environs are many of our most prominent O.P.'s, and it is good news that a 1
CONTENTS PAGE
Editorial War Memorial and Building Fund ... Birth ... Old Peterite News Calendar, Easter Term, 1949 Valete and Salvete School Officers Notes and Items House Notes ... The Oxford Cup, 1948-49 The Youthful Muse-1839 The Chapel ... Carol Service Broadcast Haydn's "Creation" The Library .. The Debating Society Verse The Musical Society The Science Society The Art Group British Ship Adoption Society "And so to Kenya" The C.C.F. Scouting Shooting Squash Chess Rugby Football, 1948 ... Hockey Fixtures, Easter Term, 1949 The Junior School ...
1 2 2 2 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 22 23 23 24 24 25 28 29 32 35 36 37
40 41 41 42 43 43 51 52
• representative and influential London Committee has been formed. The dinner will henceforth take place annually, on the first Wednesday following the 5th November—to avoid any suggestion of celebrating the most glorious failure in Old Peterite history. We welcome to St. Peter's, Mr. E. A. Wicks, B.A., A.R.C.O., Assistant Organist of York Minster, who came to us in September last, and whose valuable services in assisting the Director of Music we have already learnt to appreciate.
WAR MEMORIAL AND BUILDING FUND SIXTH LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS (in chronological order) A.—OLD
PETERITES
d. Mr. D. T. Rumfitt ... 13 7 3 Lt.-Col. A. R. Walton Mr. D. W. Thompson ... 10 0 0 Rev. H. Bloomfield •
B. Mrs. M. Harrison
—
s.
PARENTS •
s. d. 5 5 0 1 0 0
(PAST AND PRESENT)
s . d.
1 1 0 Mr. S. N. Lockwood
s. d. 100 0 0
BIRTH PIERS.—At York, on 25th July, 1948, to Jean, wife of Eustace Piers, a son and a daughter—William James Shute Barrington and Clare Rosamund Pennell. NIX.—On 2nd February, at the Purey Cust Nursing Home, York, to Sheila Mary (nee Allen), wife of John Nix, a son—Peter John.
OLD PETERITE NEWS COMMEMORATION, 1949 It is perhaps premature to invite attention to the Commemoration arrangements for the Summer Term; and, of course, full details will be circulated at the appropriate time. But it is interesting to note that the ceremonial part of the programme will be an entirely Old Peterite affair. The Bishop of Lincoln (M. Harland, 1912-14) will distribute the prizes on Speech Day, the 23rd July, and the Rev. H. N. Hodd (1918-24) will preach the Commemoration Sermon in Chapel on the following day, Sunday, the 24th. O.P. CLUB COMMITTEE MEETING Book of Remembrance. At a meeting of the Committee of the Old Peterite Club, held after the Old Peterite match on Saturday, 1 1 th December, it was decided to go on with the scheme for a "Book of Remembrance" for 2
those Old Peterites who lost their lives in the two World Wars. The book, modelled on that which the Rev. H. Norman Hodd, a member of the Committee, has in his parish church, is to be bound in soft brown calf, and on the front page there will be the arms of the School. The names of those who fell in the wars will follow, inscribed on vellum. The names will be in alphabetical order with the two wars combined, and will be followed by the dates at School. It is hoped that the "Book of Remembrance" will be ready by next Commemoration at the latest. The exact site for the book has not yet been decided, but it is hoped to house it either in the Chapel or in the new Big Hall when it is reconstructed. The Headmaster reported that the Governors approved the proposal and were consulting the School architects regarding a suitable stand for the book. London Old Peterites. At the same meeting it was resolved that the offer of J. B. Gedge to act as Secretary to the London Branch be gratefully accepted, and that N. W. D. Yardley, B. A. C. Gray, A. B. Cooper, and Winsley Sergeant form the London Committee. It was reported that the London Dinner is to be an annual event. Tees-side Dinner. It was reported that C. C. Fairweather was hoping to arrange an O.P. Tees-side Dinner early in the year. The suggestion was welcomed by the Committee. O.P. Tie. C. C. Fairweather also represented to the Committee that there should be an alternative O.P. tie more suitable for wear with dark suits. After discussion it was decided to invite Fairweather to produce definite proposals for submission to the Annual Meeting in July.
LONDON DINNER The London Dinner of the Old Peterite Club was held at De Hems on Wednesday, 10th November, 1948, and was so well attended that we shall have to move to a larger place next year. Please note the date for 1949—Wednesday, 9th November; and in future the first Wednesday after Guy Fawkes' Day, but never 5th November itself, as some of us are blessed with children who would not let us out tht evening because they would want us to help burn the figure of the Guy. Do they realise, we wonder, that this day commemorates a well-known, if unsuccessful, Old Peterite? The Headmaster and Kenneth Rhodes took the trouble to come up from York and both were in good form : S. M. Toyne looked none the worse for the midnight oil he must have burned in writing "The 3
Scandinavians in History". The Bishop of Lincoln (Maurice Harland) made a genial chairman and kept the speeches short so that there was plenty of time left to move around afterwards. After reading numerous apologies for absence, J. B. Gedge said that letters from abroad showed that Old Peterites now in the Services would feel rather lost when passing through London on their return to England, and offered to try and arrange for them to he put up for a night or two by O.P.'s living in or near London. (Any O.P.'s willing to be put on the list of those ready to offer accommodation please write to J. B. Gedge, 15 Glenalmond House, Manor Fields, Putney, S.W.15.) b that they may He reminded lapsed members of the Old Peterite Clu become life members by bringing up to £5 whatever subscriptions they may have paid in the past, however distant. The following are extracts from an account in the Yorkshire
Post :— "Norman Yardley, England's cricket captain and an Old Boy of St. Peter's, York, speaking at the annual London Dinner of the Old Peterite Club, called for a wider interest among University men and ex-Public School boys in the provision of playing fields and concrete wickets. The ordinary lads in English cities were very ill-served with facilities for developing any latent talents. Mr. Yardley was proposing the toast 'The School'. "Another O.P., Mr. Basil Radford, the actor, seconded Mr. Yardley's toast. The Headmaster, Mr. John Dronfield, who responded, said the School War Memorial Fund now totalled £, 16,000. "The toast of 'The Governors and Staff, Past and Present' was proposed by Mr. N. Ker Lindsay, late M.P. for Bristol, a pre-war Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister of Labour. He paid a great tribute to the Rev. F. H. Barnby, late Chaplain, for his cultural influence on the life of the School. He recalled one of Mr. Barnby's themes that Germany was a source of worry to the rest of Europe, as she was the one major nation that had not come under the influence of the civilising Romans. Mr. S. M. Toyne, a former headmaster, responded. The Bishop of Lincoln (Dr. Maurice Harland), another Old Boy, presided. Dr. J. D. Ferguson, O.P., Surgeon of the Central Middlesex Hospital, also spoke. e reminded Mr. Toyne of an occasion when a prizewinning essay of his had 'to be bowdlerised before an extract could be read before Lord Lang, the Archbishop of Canterbury. "The Dinner was organised by the London Committee, consisting of John Rodgers, J. B. Gedge and S. G. S. Pawle. They are pleased that several O.P.'s have expressed willingness to join the London Committee, and hope that next year there will be an even larger attendance." 4
The following is the list of those present :— Archer, L. H. J. Brindley, D. R. Brindley, R. A. Camm, J. P. Cooper, A. B. Douglas, F. H. Dronfield, J. Fasten, J. A. Ferguson, J. D. Forsythe, W. T. J. Gedge, H. F. S. Gedge, J. B. Gray, B. A. C. Hanson, J. A. Hudson, C. K.
Hunter, 0. Jenkins, T. W. Johnson, A. N. Lees, E. C. Lincoln, Bishop of. Ker Lindsay, N. Mammatt, S. G. McCowen, J. L. Pacey, F. W. B. Pearson, G. E. Pick, M. Radford, A. B. Radford, G. A. Rhodes, K. H. Rodgers, J. C.
Samman, R. A. C. Scholefield, C. E. Scholefield, J. McCausland Scott, W. Sergeant, J. H. Sergeant, W. Sewell, E. P. Toyne, S. M. Walker, H. L. Whitby, H. B. Wildsmith, E. E. Williams, E. F. Yardley, N. W. D. Yeoman, W. G.
LONDONDERRY CUP St. Peter's School, led by Norman Yardley, gained a fine victory over Brentwood by five matches to love in the first round of the Public Schools Old Boys' Squash Racquets Championship for the Londonderry Cup, at Shepherd's Bush, London. Yardley was given a splendid match by the Essex County player, J. B. Thomas, who was forced to do a tremendous amount of running by Yardley's versatile stroke play. Yardley is not yet in full match practice, but his greater experience pulled him through in a desperately close final game. Gerald Pawle, the O.P. second string, also proved too experienced for W. Rosser and took two games to love, while J. T. Brockbank, the former Cambridge University player, won in straight games. The St. Peter's victory was completed by d. K. Hudson, a member of the St. Mary's Hospital team, and T. W. Jenkins. The Old Peterites thus qualify to meet Harrow, the cup holders, in the second round in February. Scores :N. W. D. Yardley (St. Peter's) beat J. B. Thomas 9-3, 9-6, 4-9, 10-8; G. T. S. Pawle (St. Peter's) beat W. Rosser, 9-0, 7-9, 9-5, 9-0; J. T. Brockbank (St. Peter's) beat P. Griffiths, 9-4, 9-7, 9-0; C. K. Hudson (St. Peter's) beat R. C. Vowells, 9-0, 9-3, 8-10, 9-2; T. W. Jenkins (St. Peter's) beat M. S. Neck, 9-4, 9-5, 9-2. OBITUARY JOHN WILLIAM TYNDALE McCLELLAN We regret to record the death, in December last, of John William Tyndale McClellan, C.M.G. He was at St. Peter's in the late 'seventies. For a time he ranched in Nebraska, U.S.A., and later was appointed to the Civil Service in the East African Protectorate, then under the administration of a British Agent and Consul General in Zanzibar, as High Commissioner of the East African Colony. 5
He was one of the last two of the pioneer administrators of those early days, his fellow surviving Provincial Commissioner being also an Old Peterite—Stephen Bagge-Curl. Mr. McClellan's father and his two brothers, the late Lt.-Col. H. T. M. McClellan and Frank C. McClellan, C.B.E., were also at St. Peter's.
ITEMS
We congratulate C. Northcote Parkinson (1924-29), late Fellow of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, on the publication of Trade Winds by Messrs. Allen and Unwin. The book, which has an introduction by Admiral Sir William M. James, is a collection of essays by eminent authorities forming an exhaustive study of British overseas trade during the period of the French Wars, 1793-1815. C. N. Parkinson is the general editor and himself contributes excellent essays on the Port of London and on the East India trade. Trade Winds has been very well reviewed and welcomed by scholars as a valuable addition to our knowledge of the background to the Napoleonic Wars. Parkinson is now at the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth. * * * W. Graham (The Manor, 1943-48), who was Head of the School and Captain of the XV in the year 1947-48, has soon made his mark on the rugger field. In his first season since leaving School, in July, 1948, he has had the distinction of playing for the Durham County side. We congratulate him.
* * *
We congratulate the following O.P.'s on passing out from Sandhurst in the course of the past year :—I. H. Baker, M. G. Jones, P. W. Weighill, F. P. Baker, E. 0. Owen, A. C. Rodger, G. H. F. Reynolds, and M. Rignall. The posting of these 0.P.'s seemed to have exhausted the St. Peter's representation at the R.M.A., but we have learnt that T. M. A. Griffiths joined Sandhurst in January, and he, we hope, will be the forerunner of a new contingent.
OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE LETTERS OXFORD. The Editors, The Peterite. Dear Sirs, Now that the Michaelmas Term is finished, and the trunks are being unpacked at home, there must be many, including several Old Peterites, who are wondering how well they kept to the good resolutions made during the long, lazy days of the summer vacation. Perhaps there are a few, and perhaps one or two of them are Old Peterites, who this term never indulged in a morning coffee, who never ventured forth after dinner at night, and who never, never crossed the threshold of licensed premises. Perhaps such people do exist, but not, we suspect, amongst the eleven gentlemen whose varied activities at Oxford are recorded below.
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The past term was saddened by the tragic death of the ViceChancellor, who had, with kindly countenance, admitted most of us, at one time or another, as official undergraduate members of the University. The news of the birth of the infant Prince, however, was received with great joy, and town and gown combined to make the Monday evening quite a night. Next morning, the Proctor's Office was a popular port of call, as it was also on 6th November, when those who ventured along the Broad in academic dress could still see the remains of the considerable bonfire which had attracted so many the previous night. Apart from one week of exceptionally thick fog, which made crossing the High an even more hazardous undertaking than usual, the weather was kind to us, and the rugby, hockey, and boating enthusiasts had ample opportunity to work off surplus energy. The long-established doyen of the Oxford Old Peterites, F. L. Duffield, finally deserted us this term, but his loss was, in numbers at least, more than compensated by the arrival of d. C. Norris, E. A. K. Denison, and M. Waddingham. In consequence, we now number eleven, which must be the highest number of Oxford Old Peterites for many years. P. A. Andrew (Keble) leads an apparently cloistered life, and it would seem that he works hard. He was seen threading his way along the Cornmarket one day, and that, plus rumours of hockey playing, is all the news that we have of him. J. M. Banister (B.N.C.) still throws good tea parties in his room in a mansion on the outskirts of Oxford, which, though distant from the centre of the town, is plesantly near to a hostel housing female occupational therapists. In this respect, news of a long-concealed incident has recently come to our ears, which reveals that Banister possesses extraordinary dexterity when handling a fire extinguisher in the early hours of the morning. Nothing material was seen to be burning. E. A. K. Denison (B.N.C.) was nearly "progged" on his first day in Oxford, when he joined with many others to ensure that the Secretary of State for War would long remember his visit to Oxford. Denison denies that his enthusiasm that night was occasioned by nostalgic memories of army life. He lives in an inaccessible region of B.N.C., plays hockey and rugby, has been seen in such varied places as the Union, White's, and a Balliol lecture room, and at all times disclaims any responsibility for his elder brother. J. A. Denison (Worcester) appears to be working harder than usual, but still finds time to play rugby and hockey. He recommends Woodstock on Saturday nights. He is reported, one evening during the last week of term, to have played a particularly fine game of rugby in Beaumont Street. This event, however, is as yet unconfirmed. At all times he disclaims any responsibility for his younger brother. 7
R. J. Hey (New College) professes still to be involved in the toils of Old English, but we saw him one fine day in George Street accompanied by a very attractive young lady. We were not introduced. It would seem that he might take for his motto "Beowulf by day—lone wolf by night". N. G. L. R. McDermid (St. Edmund's Hall) was also one of those who welcomed Mr. Shinwell to Oxford. He has been seen in the High apparently on his way to a lecture, and so we presume that he too has been working. He always appears to be very healthy, but it is reported that injury has interfered with his activities as captain of his college rugby team. G. C. Norris (Worcester) has, in his first term, rocketed rapidly to the august position of secretary of Worcester College boats, despite the fact that his outings on the river have been restricted because of an injured hand. He reads history and drinks beer, and can always be recognised on a cold day by his distinguished off-white duffel coat. -
P. Robson (B.N.C.) was seen at the Presidential Debate in the Union, otherwise little else is known of his activities. He must do something, but his smiling silence, while possibly hinting at the happiness of the inner man, gives no clue to the life of the outer one. J. D. Taylor-Thompson (Balliol) presents a distinguished appearance, as becomes the only classicist amongst us, on the rare occasions that he has permitted himself to be seen this term. He seems possessed of an Olympian detachment—a great asset when seeking lunch in Oxford between noon and 2 p.m. He lives a retired life and works hard. P. F. Tee (Christ Church) is in digs in/on Rose Hill. One is tempted to quote from Romeo and Juliet so far as his address is concerned, but he seems to like living there, and so we feel that his rooms and his neighbours might well bear a little investigating. He was seen taking the rugby field one day, and leaving it just over an hour later, rather muddy, but otherwise exuding good health. M. Waddingham (Pembroke) silently and secretly joined us this term, and his presence in Oxford was not discovered for some time. Beyond the fact that he is one of us, we regret to say that we know absolutely nothing at all about him, and after reading this letter he will probably be very pleased that that is so. With out best wishes to the School for the coming year.
We remain, Yours very sincerely, THE OXFORD OLD PETERITES. 8
CAMBRIDGE,
January, 1949. Sirs, Despite the ever-increasing activity in Cambridge, the Old Peterites at the seat of learning have shrunk from publicity and their part in its life has been small. None of us have fought wild bulls on Parker's Piece, nor been beheaded at Trinity Gate, nor yet dived blazing into the icy Cam. Our numbers have, however, swollen beyond recognition, and far from the feared decline in our numbers, we now have ten O.P.'s in residence. Of our various misdeeds most can be learnt by turning to the various individuals. J. H. Amos (Emmanuel). Fresh from his life at sea he comes to read electricity. Appears to work hard and has been seen pulling an oar, starboard side of an eight, although he deplores the unseamanlike bearing of the majority of crews and coaches. D. Anderson (Sidney Sussex). Reads economics with admirable keenness, but apart from occasional sights of him swathed in the only O.P. scarf in Cambridge, his doings are as closely guarded as those behind the "Iron Curtain". W. J. Clarke (Clare). Finds little in Cambridge to compare with the beauties of Japan, despite the weeping willows on the Backs. When last seen he was considerably disfigured, having been playing rugger with some other murderous-minded and uncouth undergrads.
J. D. Eccles (Emmanuel). Another surprise arrival who appears to do little or nothing. He talks impressively of the Marshall Library and the small ration of shaving water allowed by his landlady. P. Garbett (St. John's). Another man of mystery not seen until half-way through the term, when he was observed in the dim-grey light of dawn plodding towards the Engineering Labs. He has not been seen since. A. G. Reynolds (Emmanuel). Recent black eyes and swollen lips suggest that he either indulges in low brawling or boxes for the 'Varsity —the difference is a subtle one. Talks Russian furiously, despite his inability to understand himself There is no truth in the rumour that he is on the short list for a vacant seat on the Politburo. Newnham still has a fatal fascination for him. P. F. Ringrose (Clare). Reads law avidly between furious bouts of eightsome reels and sword dances. On a recent Ski Club expedition to Italy was one of the 170 who injured themselves. He informs us that his skis kept the fire going for a few hours. Toils round Fenners mercilessly.
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J. F. Spink (Emmanuel). Keeps his activities a mystery behind the portals of the Engineering Labs. He can frequently be found beneath a pile of books, of which his desk forms the foundation. J. D. Ward (St. John's). By far the best-dressed man in John's. Works hard and at infrequent intervals. A visit to his rooms in the recent cold spell revived the controversy over suspended animation. Plays squash. G. Wilson (Emmanuel). Quickly settled into his lofty eyrie at the top of an Emmanuel staircase. Leads a quiet life and threatens to turn Communist. His recent engagement came as a surprise to noone. Having thus explained our actions for the last term, it only remains to wish the School every success in the coming term and to sign ourselves Yours sincerely, THE CAMBRIDGE O.P.'s. SANDHURST LETTER ROYAL MILITARY ACADEMY, SANDHURST.
December, 1948. Dear O.P.'s, As the third intake here to pass out prepared to leave, the remaining Peterites of our Sandhurst contingent realised that there were no more of us here to carry on our letter. For that reason this will be the last for only a short while, we hope, until our numbers increase. We were heartened to hear, recently, that T. M. A. Griffiths is coming to our honourable institution in January. Towards the end of October, F. P. Baker, E. 0. Owen and P. W. Weighill left us to have fun and games on Salisbury Plain with the Gunners. We were very pleased indeed to see I. S. Macpherson down here playing scrum-half for the Cranwell team, when we were beaten by them on our home ground for the first time in twenty years. We offer our hearty congratulations. Afterwards we put into practice the old saying, "Get to know your fellow servicemen", over a pint of ale ! We understand that K. G. Harper was down here playing for the Navy, but was unable to contact any O.P.'s. Almost exactly two months after the last Sovereign's parade, M. G. Jones, G. H. F. Reynolds, A. C. Rodger, and M. A. J. Rignall have passed out, and are now waiting for their postings. For the present, then, this is "au revoir" to The Peterite. With best wishes for the future to all O.P.'s, staff and present members of the School. Yours very sincerely, SANDHURST O.P.'s. 10
CALENDAR, EASTER TERM, 1949 JANUARY 14 Fri. 15 Sat.
Boarders return. Full Term begins. 6 p.m. Science Society.
16 Sun. Second Sunday after Epiphany. Preacher : The Chaplain. 20 Thurs. 11 a.m. Governors' Meeting. 6 p.m. Debating Society. 22 Sat. 23 Sun. Third Sunday after Epiphany. 6-30 p.m. Epiphany Procession in York Minster. 26 Wed. Conversion of St. Paul. 6 p.m. Science Society. 29 Sat. Fourth Sunday after Epiphany. 30 Sun. Preacher : The Archdeacon of York. FEBRUARY 2 Wed. Purification B.V.M. 1st XI v. R.A.F. Linton. Home. 1st XI v. Scarborough H.C. Home. 5 Sat. 1st Shooting VIII v. Monmouth School. 6 p.m. Debating Society. 6 Sun. Fifth Sunday after Epiphany. Preacher : The Rev. J. S. Purvis, D.Litt. 9 Wed. 1st XI v. Styx H.C. Home. 1st XI v. University College, Hull. Home. 12 Sat. 1st and 2nd VIIIs v. Victoria College, Jersey. 6 p.m. Haydn's "Creation". 13 Sun. Septuagesima. Preacher : The Dean of York. 14 Mon. 6 p.m. Mr. Lloyd Owen on "Careers Abroad". 17 Thurs. 11 a.m. Governors' Meeting. 1st XI v. York H.C. Home. 19 Sat. 1st VIII v. King Edward's School, Birmingham. 6 p.m. Debating Society. 20 Sun. Sexagesima. Preacher : The Rev. P. W. Wheeldon, O.B.E. 21 Mon. 6 p.m. Mr. J. W. Bansall on "Careers in the I.C.I." 23 Wed. St. Matthias. 1st XI v. Phcenix H.C. Away. 26 Sat. 1st and 2nd VIIIs v. Dean Close School. 6 p.m. Science Society. Mr. T. H. Mason on "Photography". 27 Sun. Quinquagesima. Preacher : The Head Master. 2-30 p.m. Orchestral Concert by York Symphony Orchestra (for Junior School). 28 Mon. 2-30 p.m. Cross-country run. MARCH 2 Wed. Ash Wednesday. 8-45 a.m. Holy Communion. 9-45 a.m. Matins. 1st XI v. Bootham School. Away. 2nd XI v. Bootham School. Home. 1st and 2nd XIs v. Ashville College, Harrogate. Away. 5 Sat. II 1st VIII v. Durham School and St. Edmund's School, Canterbury. 6 p.m. Debating Society. 11
6 Sun.
First Sunday in Lent. Preacher : The Chaplain. 9 Wed. Visit of Secretary, Public Schools Employment Bureau. 1st and 2nd XIs v. Worksop College. Home. 10 Thurs. Certificate "A" Examination. 12 Sat. 1st XI v. Trent College. Away. 1st and 2nd VIIIs v. Wellington School, Somerset. Inter-House Boat Races (1st Division). 6 p.m. Science Society. 13 Sun. Second Sunday in Lent. Preacher : The Chaplain. 14 Mon. H.S.C. and S.C. Trial Examinations. 15 Tues. 2 p.m. Junior School Entrance Examination. 17 Thurs. 11 a.m. Governors' Meeting. 18 Fri. 12 noon. Confirmation by the Archbishop of York. 19 Sat. 1st and 2nd VIIIs v. Denstone College. Inter-House Boat Races (2nd Division). 6 p.m. Debating Society. 20 Sun. Third Sunday in Lent. Preacher : The Chaplain. 25 Fri. Annunciation B.V.M. 26 Sat. 6 p.m. Science Society. 27 Sun. Fourth Sunday in Lent. Preacher : The Chaplain. 28 Mon. 2-15 p.m. Athletic Sports. 29 Tues. Boarders depart. Sunday Services are :-8-15 a.m. Holy Communion. 11 a.m. Junior School Service. 6 p.m. Evensong and Sermon.
VALETE AND SALVETE VALETE (December, 1948) THE GROVE J. U. Burdass. 1944-48 (Junior School, 1942). Transitus. School Cert., 1948. 2nd XV, 1947; 1st XV, 1948; Colours, 1948. Played for 1st XI, 1948. 1st Shooting VIII, 1948; Colours, 1948. L/Cpl. in C.C.F. Cert. "A", 1948. 1st Class Shot. H. K. Trundell. 1947-48. IVc. Cadet in C.C.F. R. D. Webster. 1945-48. Vc.
THE MANOR Cadet in C.C.F. Cert. "A", Pt. I, 1948.
THE RISE E. G. Brown. 1943-48. L.VI. House Monitor. School Cert., 1947. Played for 2nd XV, 1947; 1st IV and 1st VIII, 1948; 1st IV Colours, 1948. L/Sgt. in C.C.F. Cert. "A", 1947. D. A. Hopkins. 1944-48 (Junior School, 1940). U.VI. House Monitor. School Cert., 1946. H.S.C., 1948. Shot for 1st VIII, 1948. Cpl. in C.C.F. 1st Class Shot. TEMPLE N. M. Ward. 1943-48 (Junior School, 1941). L.VI. House Monitor. School Cert., 1946. Rowed in 1st VIII, 1948. 2nd IV Colours, 1948. Sgt. in C.C.F. Proficiency Badge. Cert. "A", 1947. 1st Class Shot. R. A. Relton. 1945-48 (Junior School, 1944). Transitus. Cpl. in C.C.F. Cert. "A", 1948.
12
SALVETE (September, 1948) THE GROVE M. N. Coates (Shell), J. C. Dent (Shell), H. S. M. Dewick (IVA), M. J. F. Everitt (IVB), T. A. Foy (IVA), H. A. L. Golightly (IVA), J. M. Hamilton (Shell), J. S. Megginson (Shell), P. Newton (IVA), G. B. Pullan (IVA), J. N. Ramsden (IVc), P. F. Stead (Shell), M. J. Wood (IVB), T. Wilkinson (Shell). THE MANOR. A. T. Booth (IVB), R. J. De Little (Shell), J. Ford (IVB), M. T. Greenwood (IVB), J. H. Hepworth (IVB), J. G. Humble (IVc), J. A. Jackson (Shell), R. A. Jackson (Shell), M. J. Quarmby (IVA), C. W. Thompson (IVB), P. J. Williams (Shell). THE RISE C. R. Ackroyd (IVc), D. H. Beachell (IVA), M. A. Butterworth (IVA), R. H. Dean (IVc), G. R. Fortune (IVc), D. H. Gudgeon (IVB), J. A. Hunter (Shell), J. C. Oldroyd (IVA), E. A. M. Reid-Smith (IVA), J. N. Roe (IVO, J. A. Sharp (Shell), D. I. W. Smith (IVA), E. K. Walker (Shell), M. A. Watson (Shell), R. D. Wheatley (IVA). SCHOOL HOUSE I. Collins (Shell), J. C. Hodgson (IVA), J. M. Holt (IVA), D. C. Holmes (IVA), J. N. T. Howat (IVA), G. B. Hudson (IVB), M. B. Rusholme (IVc), C. K. Smith (IVA), J. 0. Walton (Shell), P. H. Webster (IVA), P. R. L. Wetherell (Shell). TEMPLE D. J. Bird (IVB), T. A. Bradford (Shell), R. T. Clark (IVA), R. Dunwell (IVA), J. E. Fawcett (IVB), D. G. Harbottle (Shell), D. Haw (IVB), J. C. M. Herring (IVA), P. Richardson (Shell), P. R. Shearburn (Shell), P. Taylor (IVA), D. K. Timms (IVA), C. M. Ward (IVc).
SCHOOL OFFICERS SCHOOL MONITORS Head of School and The Manor: C. FRANK. Head of The Grove: R. PARKER. Head of School House: G. W. J. GRIFFITHS. Head of The Rise: N. B. BURGESS. Head of Temple: F. C. SLEGG. Chapel Monitor: E. G. THOMPSON. J. M. GRAHAM. J. B. MORTIMER. :
HOUSE MONITORS The Grove: C. M. BAINTON, J. A. HANNON, A. M. KENDELL, E. D. THORNTON. The Manor: F. CARLILL, R. J. GIBSON, C. D. GOODE, P. JENKINS, J. A. WHITEHEAD. The Rise: R. M. BOOTH, E. G. BROWN, D. L. HOPKINS, J. S. TREWICK. School House: P. T. BAKER, P. J. DENNIS, D. G. ECCLES, J. C. GRIFFITHS, D. WALTER. Temple: M. A. CROSS, K. G. HARRISON, C. D. RYDER, J. C. VARLEY, N. M. WARD. :
13
GAMES CAPTAINS :
Captain of Hockey: P. T. BAKER. Captain of Boats: G. W. J. GRIFFITHS. Captain of Athletics: C. FRANK. Captain of Shooting: J. A. HANNON. Captain of Squash: J. A. HANNON. Captain of Fencing: A. M. KENDELL. EDITORS OF "THE PETERITE" :
N. B. BURGESS, J. C. GRIFFITHS, C. D. RYDER, M. I. H. UNWIN, S. C. DANEFF.
NOTES AND ITEMS The School sent a telegram of congratulation to Princess Elizabeth on the birth of her son, the infant Prince Charles. The event was celebrated by a whole holiday on Friday, 19th November. On Tuesday, 26th October, at 6-30 p.m., a broadcast in the series "Where they Sing" was made from the School Chapel. An end-of-term party for the Boarders was held on the last evening of the term. After an excellent meal there was a film show in the Big Hall. Films on atomic physics were shown in the Big Hall on Tuesday, 2nd November. They were introduced by Mr. Robinson. On Friday, 1st October, Dr. I. S. Kale spoke to the VIth form on behalf of the Church Missionary Society. Dr. Kale spoke at length about the school of which he is headmaster, the Grammar School at Lagos, in Nigeria. The school, which was founded by the Society, is staffed and supported partially from abroad and is run on English lines. He emphasised the necessity of having Christianity as the centre point of all education. An education unrelated to Christian principles was useless, and its products did not make good citizens. Finally, he spoke of the educational problem in Africa as a whole, saying that changes in all spheres of life were leading to new habits of thought which was purely materialistic. To combat this he recommended a Christian education which would give to the African a respect for his fellow men. On Thursday, 2nd December, the Dean of York gave a talk to the VIth form on "Stained Glass". The Dean, who is probably the greatest authority on stained glass in England, is at the present time engaged in restoring the East Window in the Minster. It was about this that he chose to speak, and in particular about a series of panels depicting the creation and the Old Testament history. He illustrated his talk with numerous photographs on the epidiascope. We were all amazed at the wealth of workmanship which lies behind these panels, and in particular at the immensity of the task of restoration. We thank the Dean for a most interesting and entertaining talk. 14
HOUSE NOTES THE GROVE After a lapse of fourteen years The Grove has been re-formed, and we have pleasure in presenting the House notes for the first term in its second period of existence. The Grove is by no means a new House, and we have fine traditions in a wide field of activities which we are determined to revive. We can feel assured that we have made a good start, for The Grove has played a prominent part in the many activities of the past term. Perhaps our most marked success has been in the Work Cup Competition, in which we now hold a commanding lead. For this we have to thank the more junior members of the House; let us hope that the senior members will follow their fine example when the occasion arises. We were well represented in the School rugger teams this term, and congratulate R. Parker on his captaincy of the 1st XV, J. U. Burdass, R. B. Pringle, and A. M. Kendell on their 1st XV colours; C. M. Bainton, T. Hobson, G. R. A. March, M. I. H. Unwin, R. D. Watson, and D. J. Wilson on their 2nd XV colours; and P. J. Blincoe and R. M. Hodgson on their Colts colours. In view of this imposing list of colours, the results of our efforts in the Inter-House Rugger was rather disappointing. In the senior event we reached the final by beating The Manor, 33-3, and The Rise, 17-3, but lost to Temple in the final by 14-0. We have no cause to grumble, however, for on the day's showing we were beaten by the better team. The junior team played very well to beat School House in the semi-final by 24-0, but in the final lost to The Rise by 8-11. We also congratulate J. A. Hannon, who has again captained the shooting team, and R. Parker and J. U. Burdass on the award of their shooting colours. The following are to be congratulated on their appointments :R. Parker, Head of House and Vice-Head of the School; C. M. Bainton, A. M. Kendell, E. D. Thornton, and J. A. Hannon, House Monitors. Finally we say goodbye to Burdass and Trundell. We regret that their stay in The Grove has been so short and we wish them every success in the future. THE MANOR This term we welcome Mr. Penniston, who has joined us as Assistant Housemaster. He has shown great interest in this capacity and done much in and for the House. Frank's absence, caused by a rugger injury, was a great blow to the senior rugger of the House. The team was younger this year than
11111
15
111 is customary and even the spirited playing could not overcome the remained at 9-3, only leaping up later in the game when weight and age began to tell. The junior team lost to The Rise after a hard but rather individualistic game on our part. Both sides played well, but The Rise proved in the later stages of the game to be a stronger team, winning with a clear lead of nine points, the score being 12-3. The Work Cup came to us for the first time since The Manor was re-formed, thanks to the concentrated effort of all members of the House. The Philatelic Society continues to flourish with increasing membership and interest under the very keen supervision of M. I. Daniel and D. H. Holmes. The House Library is likewise becoming increasingly popular, and many contributions have been, and still are, being added. There has been a marked tendency among several sections of the House to improve the studies, with excellent results. The policy deserves every encouragement. Frank is to be congratulated on being appointed Head of School and House; 'E. G. Thompson on the appointment of School and Chapel Monitor; Whitehead, Goode, Gibson, Jenkins, and Carlill on being made House Monitors. We would like also to congratulate Frank and Whitehead on the award of their 1st XV colours for 1948-49, and Hartley on the award of his 2nd XV colours for 1948-49. Lastly, we say goodbye to R. D. Webster. We shall be sorry to see him go, and at the same time wish him the very best of luck in the future. THE RISE This term the House moved back into its original home on the Avenue. Everybody settled down quickly, and this was due, to a great extent, to the many hours of hard work put in by Mr. and Mrs. Crews, for which we heartily thank them. We could not attempt to describe, even in the most general terms, the changes that have been brought about, but those who knew The Rise in the old days and who have visited us since it has been re-built were greatly surprised by the tremendous changes that have been made. We are proud indeed of our new quarters. In the senior rugger the team, though achieving no great success. did not disgrace itself in losing to The Grove. The side did well to hold a much heavier and more talented Grove XV to a score of 3-0 at half-time. Soon after play re-commenced a good penalty kick by Wall made the score 3-3. Weight began to tell in the second half, and The Grove were able to fight their way through a tired, but nevertheless plucky defence. 16
The House 2nd XV played well in all three matches to bring the Junior Rugger Cup to The Rise. In the first round they beat a much-fancied Manor side, 12-3. Good tackling and fast wing forwards neutralized what might have been a dangerous Manor three-line. The semi-final against Temple produced an extremely hard-fought match, but we emerged the winners by 16 points to 8. The final against Grove was a very exciting match. An early score by The Grove upset the side, and the half-time score was 8-0 to Grove, but the forwards fought back well and the final score was 11-8 in our favour. The team's success in all matches was due largely to the excellence of the forwards and the speed and sure tackling of the captain, J. D. C. Wall. We offer our heartiest congratulations to the following on the award of colours :—M. G. Goodburn, 1st XV colours; N. B. Burgess and D. Thompson, 2nd XV colours;• J. D. C. Wall and A. N. Gunning, Colts colours; and to J. D. C. Wall, D. Thompson, and A. N. Gunning, House colours. Congratulations also to the follows on their appointments :—N. B. Burgess, Head of The Rise; J. B. Mortimer, School Monitor; R. M. Booth, J. S. Trewick, and D. A. Hopkins, House Monitors. Finally, we say goodbye to E. G. Brown and D. A. Hopkins. We thank them for all they have done for us and wish them the best of luck in their future careers. SCHOOL HOUSE We must first give a very hearty welcome to Mr. Jeffs, who has this term taken up his new appointment as our Housemaster; we hope that he will remain with us as long as Mr. Rhodes. We also welcome Mr. Day as Assistant Housemaster. G. W. J. Griffiths is to be congratulated on his appointment as Head of the House, also P. T. Baker, P. J. Dennis, D. G. Eccles, J. C. Griffiths, and D. Walter on becoming House Monitors. We would also congratulate G. W. J. Griffiths, Captain of School Boats, P. T. Baker, Captain of School Hockey, and D. Walter, Vice-Captain of School Rugger, on their appointments. Once again the House has been well represented in the School rugger fifteens. In the 1st XV, besides D. Walter, P. T. Baker gained his cap as well as the re-award of his colours, and P. C. Knowlson and J. F. N. Jackson their colours. In the 2nd XV G. W. J. Griffiths, P. J. Dennis, D. G. Eccles, C. T. Groves, and M. Wye were awarded their colours. Finally, G. W. J. Griffiths was re-awarded his School shooting colours. In the House matches we have not been so successful as we were last year. In the senior rugger we were beaten by Temple in the semi-finals, but, although the final score was 14-0, the game was hard 17
fought. We congratulate them on winning the cup. In the junior House match we were defeated by The Grove, but we would congratulate our younger and lighter side on their defence. After the match Milburn and Driver were awarded their House Junior colours for rugger. Turning to other activities, we are glad to see that so many of the House have attended the meetings of the School Debating Society, and hope that many more members of the House will take part in this very valuable activity. We are glad, too, that Elliott has found a place in the School chess team, and understand that he has made a very promising debut. A great deal of interest has been aroused in the House by the re-opening of a Model Railway Room in the Science Block. Although the room is rather small for the purpose, several enthusiastic members of the House, led by Gray, Milburn, and C. T. Groves, have taken full advantage of it. In purely domestic matters we have not been idle. The Monitors and the members of Studies 1 and 2 have re-decorated their respective studies to house some of the new furniture purchased with the House Embellishment Fund. With the Headmaster's permission we have adopted the Biology Form Room as our Quiet Room, and we would commend its use to every member of the House. At this juncture we would like to congratulate G. W. J. Griffiths on his appointment as C.S.M. of the C.C.F., and to compliment P /O. Dennis on the way he has run the House Platoon. Although we have lost the Work Cup, won by the academic achievements of the House in a previous year, we are glad to see that McDougle, King, C. K Smith, and others have already gained some points for this year's competition. We are confident that should we not be successful in regaining the cup it will not be for want o f determination and honest endeavour. We would like to conclude these notes by wishing every member of the House success in the New Year. TEMPLE This has been a truly historic term for Temple House, as it marked our first success in the final of the senior rugger, although our forerunners, the Day Boys, won the cup in 1925 ! In the semi-finals we beat School House, 14-0, in a good game, and went on to win corn; congratulate all those concerned, and hope that our success may be the first of many. In the semi-finals of the junior rugger we met The Rise and were beaten in a hard game by 16 points to 8. 18
fortablyginsTheGovtfinalby16posti,We
In view of the general interest taken in table tennis in the House, it was decided to run a competition this term, and Brook, Bond, and Birch, D. J., are to be congratulated on winning the senior, middle, and junior competitions respectively. It was also suggested by several keen philatelists that a House Stamp Club should be formed, and, under the auspices of Mr. Howat, a small but active Club is now functioning. This term we have to say goodbye to N. M. Ward, who is leaving to go into the Army, and we wish him the best of luck in the future. The House has been well represented in the rugger this season, and we offer our congratulations to Slegg, 1st XV cap; Graham, Varley, Townshend, and Kershaw, 1st XV colours; Ryder, 2nd XV captain and colours; Brook, Colts XV colours; and to Ankers, Brook, Calvert, Fletcher, Hourigan, Robinson. and N. M. Ward, House colours. The House senior rugger team was : Brook; Ward, Kershaw, Graham, Calvert; Slegg, Hourigan; Robinson, Ryder, Varley, J. C., Ankers, Fletcher. Townshend, Herring, Jagger.
THE OXFORD CUP, 1948-49 (Holders : School House) The following table indicates the system on which points are awarded and gives the points gained up to date :-
Points
,
Awarded Grove
Senior Rugger Junior Rugger Senior Cricket Junior Cricket Hockey ... ... Rowing (1st Division) Rowing (2nd Division) Athletics, 1st Athletics, 2nd Cross-country, 1st Cross-country, 2nd Swimming, 1st Swimming, 2nd Squash ... Tennis ... Shooting (Team) Fencing ...
• •• • • • • •• • •• • •• • •• • • •
... • • •
... • •• • ••
... ...
20 10 20 10 20 20 10 20 10 10 5 10 5 10 10 5 5
Manor
Rise
School House Temple
20 —
10
— — — —
— —
200
— — — — 10
19
—
— — — — — — 20
THE YOUTHFUL MUSE-1839
"We ought not to omit a passing notice of some poetical effusions in praise of steam, written by three pupils in St. Peter's School, Masters James Motley, Thomas Dewse, and T. C. Smyth, which were printed in the form of a small pamphlet, and distributed to the company at the breakfast. As these efforts of the youthful muse possess considerable merit, and much playful humour, we willingly transcribe such portions of each as our limits will admit, which will be found in another part of the paper." The above extract from the Yorkshire Gazette of 1st June, 1839, establishes a St. Peter's link, albeit slender, with an event which was to prove momentous in the history of York. The paragraph is culled from the Gazette's account of the ceremony which marked the opening, on the 29th May, 1839, of the first railway out of York—the York and North Midland Railway. Only the first part of the projected line had then been completed, from York to South Milford. A further year had to elapse before the whole line was in operation, from York to the hamlet of Altofts, near Normanton, where it was to link up with the North Midland, planned from Derby to Leeds. But it was a historic occasion, of more import perhaps than could have been appreciated by the little group of York worthies who first mooted the idea on the 30th December, 1833, at a meeting in Mrs. Thomlinson's hotel in Petergate ; and York celebrated it in no halfhearted fashion. The proceedings began with a breakfast at the Guildhall at 11 a.m. Thence there was a magnificent procession of the notables of the City to the temporary railway station, where 400 passengers embarked on the train and rode "with the speed of a race-horse" to South Milford, 14 miles away. All York was on holiday, flags were flying, the Minster bells ringing, cannon booming from the ships on the river, when thousands of citizens, crowded on the city walls, watched the iron horse start on its way at 1 p.m. At South Milford there was a wait of an hour or so, and the travellers were entertained by a band conveyed for this purpose in a special coach. The return journey was taken in more leisurely fashion to enable the passengers to view the moving countryside. After this hazardous adventure—the engine driver, appropriately named Nelson, touched 30 miles an hour— further sustenance was called for, and at 4-30 200 guests sat down to a grand banquet at the Guildhall, a gargantuan feast, which continued until 10 p.m. Similar entertainment was provided for the clerks, engineers, and lesser fry at the Windmill Inn. It says much for the stamina of our ancestors that even after the banquet with its endless speeches the festivities were not regarded as complete. A grand ball in the state room of the Mansion House was the next item on the programme, and the rejoicings finally ended at 4 a.m. the next day. From this small beginning sprang York's eminence in the railway world, and it is interesting to find St. Peter's indirectly associated with 20
the ceremony which marked the occasion. Apart from the "poetical effusions" of the three Peterites which were circulated at the breakfast, we notice that a notable headmaster, the Rev. Stephen Creyke, was seated at the high table at the banquet in the company of George Stephenson, who had surveyed the land and supplied the locomotives from his works at Darlington, and of the Lord Mayor, George Hudson, later to become famous, or infamous, as the Railway King, who was Chairman of the new company and had been the driving force behind the enterprise. Creyke was not actually the headmaster of St. Peter's at the time. He had retired the previous year, and the School, then housed in Minster Yard, was in the hands of the less-successful Hewson. On his resignation, Creyke had been appointed Rector of Wigginton and Archbishop's Chaplain, and in this capacity replied, in the absence of the Archbishop, to George Hudson's toast of "The Archbishop and Clergy of the Diocese". We read, too, in the Gazette, which devoted three closely-printed pages of its weekly issue to this epoch-making event in York's history, that some of the ladies were conveyed from the breakfast to the station in Tanner Row in the magnificent new omnibus of the Collegiate School in Clifton, a school which, of course, St. Peter's was destined to take over a year or two later. There may, indeed, be some connection between the importance of Stephen Creyke in the civic affairs of York and the circulation of those "efforts of the youthful muse", for it was during his regime as headmaster that the first School magazine made its appearance. The St. Peter's Journal, presumably the earliest forerunner of The Peterite, made its appearance on 3rd March, 1834, and continued for at least seven numbers, though the full duration of its life is not known. Perhaps it is not fanciful to connect the outburst of poetry with which St. Peter's heralded the new railway with the stimulus given to original composition by this first School magazine. Unlike the Yorkshire Gazette, we cannot find space to transcribe extensive portions of the effusions of Masters Motley, Dewse, and Smyth. The Gazette afforded them a whole column. But it must be confessed that modern taste might question the "considerable merit", and the "playful humour" is singularly hard to detect. And, curiously enough, the poems have remarkably little to say about railways. Thus James Motley having got his "iron monster" started in a dozen or so lines, then gets down to something with which he is less unfamiliar for a further forty or fifty. Thus. . . But caught at last he feels the chain The ponderous cars his speed restrain, And now full slow he moves, as if He felt his iron sinews stiff; He puffs, he pants, then with a roar Sets off as slow, as fast before; At last moves quicker, with a cough Puts forth his strength, and now he's off 21
After that the York and North Midland Railway has, so to speak, had it. "Through yon dark wood he takes his course," and Master Motley is launched on an elegant description of the English countryside through which, inevitably, the "half-tamed devil" (the locomotive) must pass. T. C. Smyth first bids us "Mark how the dread car, in the power of its might, Now whirls on its course, and is hid from the sight; Not the speed of the racer, the feet of the deer, Can equal the force of its mighty career." Then he gets on to something big. With prophetic eye, he . sees Commerce— "So long through the course of our prosperous isle, May it pour the bright sunshine of Fortune's sweet smile And long to Old Ebor's gray walls may it bring The tide of full wealth from a deep-flowing spring. While Commerce her bountiful harvest shall shed Where monarchs have ruled, and where heroes have bled, And soon the bright wreath of that glory restore Which blazed upon Ebor's high temples of yore." As for Thomas Dewse, he catalogues (at great length) the hackneyed themes of earlier poets and dismisses them thus— "Not these I sing, but with enraptured flight Haste to the cry of 'Railroads', 'Engines', 'Steam' : What wonders thicken on my sated sight, The magic birth of some substantial dream, Billows of smoke out-gushing black as night, The massive boat breasting the tumid stream ! Now she moves onward 'like a thing of life', Mocking the rage of elemental strife, The breath of Commerce wafting her the while—" But T. C. Smyth has said all that. Anyhow, we feel we have done enough to show that of St. Peter's in 1839, we might say, as Dr. Johnson did of Pembroke College, Oxford—"Sir, we are a nest of singing birds." L.B. Where are they in 1949?
THE CHAPEL For the first time the Junior School had its own Carol Service last term, quite separate from the Senior School. A special "Ceremony of Carols" was devised for the Junior School, and this Service was at 3 p.m. The Service provided movement and also gave an opportunity to six representatives of each Form to sing 22
the solo parts in some of the carols. Four lessons only were chosen, and these were read by representatives of J.IV, J.V, J.VI and by Mr. Ping, the master in charge of the Junior School. The Senior School Service, at 6 p.m., followed the now traditional form of "Nine Lessons and Carols". The collection at each Carol Service was given to the Lord Mayor of York's Christmas Cheer Fund, and £40 was sent to help to cheer the Christmas of some older and poorer people in York. Two special features in the decoration of the Chapel for the carols should be mentioned. Two Christmas trees, lit with electric lights, adorned the Sanctuary, and over the Chancel step was a chandelier lit by six candles. The Chapel was more than full for both our Carol Services, and there can be little doubt that the separation of the Senior and Junior School Services will be a permanent feature of our Carol Sunday.
CAROL SERVICE A large congregation, which included a number of the School Governors, assembled to hear and take part in the well-established Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols which took place on the last Sunday of term, 12th December, at 6 p.m. The Service had been slightly shortened, but most of the old favourite carols were represented and room was found for one or two that had not been heard in Chapel for some time. Of the carols sung by the congregation and choir together, "Wenceslas" was outstanding for the vigour of both soloists and for the zest of the congregation : of the carols sung by the choir alone, the veteran "In dulci jubilo" well deserved its continued place in the Service and the Coventry carol more than justified its inclusion.
BROADCAST The School took part in a broadcast, the second in the series "Where they sing", on Tuesday evening, 26th October. The programme started with one verse of the hymn "Lift up your hearts", which was followed by a short introduction of the School given by the Headmaster. The choir then sang Brahms's "How lovely are thy dwellings" and School and choir ended the broadcast with Stanford's "Te Deum" in B flat, arranged by C. S. Lang. Rehearsals started soon after the beginning of term, but we were all specially impressed by the great care and attention to detail of the B.B.C. producer and engineers who arranged the broadcast. The broadcast was heard, according to B.B.C. unofficial estimate, by 5.000,000 listeners, some of whom wrote appreciatively to the School. 23
A recording of the broadcast was made, but owing to some technical mishap to the master record, no copies have been produced, although well over a hundred members of the School signified their desire to purchase a set. The programme was introduced by Mr. Frank Wade, of the B.B.C. Mr. Wicks was at the organ, and Mr. Waine conducted.
HAYDN'S "CREATION"
On the 22nd of November the augmented choir gave a performancel of Haydn's "Creation", with Mrs. Collier (soprano) as Gabriel, Mr. Piers (tenor) as Uriel, and A. M. Kendell and P. J. R. Mason (bass) as Raphael. Whether by accident or not, the performance coincided with St. Cecilia's day, and thus had a double meaning for us. In the same way as St. Cecilia created heavenly harmony with her music, the oratorio embodies the creation of the world. The augmented choir sang remarkably well, especially in their first entrance, "And the spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters", in which the soft, mystic "strumming" was very effective, only to be broken up by the electrifying fortissimo C major chord on "light". The triumphant last chorus was majestic and powerful, although at times the choir was inclined to shout. But Haydn's real strong point was never in his choruses. His chief beauty lies in the airs for solo voices. It was a real pleasure to listen to Mrs. Collier's beautiful and fresh rendering of the air "With verdure clad", with its simple, lyric charm. Mr. Piers, too, sang firmly and convincingly with his agreeable tenor voice. A. M. Kendell and P. J. R. Mason were not very sure of themselves to begin with, but in the trio they regained confidence and blended with the soprano and tenor to give a polished and balanced performance. We would like to thank Mr. Waine and Mr. Wicks, too, for the amount of work they have put in to give us this first-class performance. S.D.
THE LIBRARY Librarian: L. BURGESS, EsQ. Library Monitors:
J. C. GRIFFITHS, D. P. NORWOOD, C. D. RYDER, F. C. SLEGG, M. I. H. UNWIN, J. A. WHITEHEAD.
A notable addition this term was the set of books presented to the Library in memory of the late Captain W. W. Rickard. These were— Black Lamb and Grey Falcon—West. The British Empire—Ed. Bolitho. North American Excursion—Young. The Quest—Bodley.
24
Another presentation of particular interest was that from Dr.
J. T. Sheppard, Provost of King's, to mark his visit to the School for
Commemoration, 1948. It consisted of works from his own pen, translations of the Greek dramatists and other books of classical interest :The "Electra" of Sophocles and the "Peace" of Aristophanes.
D
Euripides' "Helen". Euripides' "The Cyclops". Aeschylus, the Prophet of Greek Freedom. The Wisdom of Sophocles.
In addition to the above the following books were acquired in the course of the term :Europe in the 19th and 20th Centuries—Lipson. The Scandinavians—S. M. Toyne. The Second World War (Vol. I)—Winston Churchill. Creevey—John Gore. Tudor Parish Documents—Purvis. Plato's Republic—trans. A. D. Lindsay. Flaubert and Madame Bovary—Steegmuller. Oxford Junior Encyclopedia (Vol. I). Maquis—Millar. The Robe—Douglas. Native Economics of Nigeria—Forde and Scott. The Library Atlas. A Systematic Regional Geography—Unstead. World Survey—Unstead. Contact Catalysis—Griffith. Boiler House and Power Station Chemistry—Francis. Modern Gas Turbines—Judge. The Nature of the Atom—Conn. The Wave Nature of the Electron—Conn. Rugger—Do it this Way—Sugden & Hollis. Cricket—Do it this Way—Wheatley & Parry.
THE DEBATING SOCIETY With increasing attendances the Society has fully established itself in the Big Hall for its meetings. Indeed, from a purely statistical point of view the Society would appear to have reached a degree of popularity and success unequalled in its history, the average attendance for this term's debates being comfortably over a hundred. But perhaps more encouraging still has been the increase in the number of speakers from the house, for therein lies the true indication of its success. The first meeting of the term was held on Saturday, 2nd October, when the motion was "That this House approves of voluntary euthanasia." J. F. N. Jackson, proposing the motion, said that people suffering great pain who have no prospect of recovery were quite justified in asking for a painless death. He cited several examples where great suffering could only be relieved by a voluntary and easy death. 25
Mr. Le Tocq then rose to oppose the motion. He spoke at length on the principles which might guide a man to make such a decision, and in this connection mentioned many practical difficulties which would be involved. No one in extreme pain was in a position to make such a decision. M. I. H. Unwin, who seconded the proposition, spoke of the great mental and physical suffering caused by many of the diseases for which there was no known cure, and which, he said, should be alleviated by euthanasia. Patients stimulated by drugs were not alive in the true sense of the word. M. B. Markus, seconding the opposition, said that an ill man could not make the necessary decision for euthanasia to be really voluntary. He also opposed the motion on religious grounds. The debate was then thrown open to the House, wand speeches were made by Wilson, Ryder, Chatterton, the Chaplain, Kelsey, Mr. Waine, Buttrum, Wheatley, Frater, Norwood, Graham, Berg and Powell. The motion was carried by 35 votes to 34. The second debate took place on Saturday, 16th October; the motion was "That this House would favour the abolition of hunting and coursing." The Headmaster first spoke for the proposition. He based his case on the plea of needless cruelty to the animals concerned. Blood sports encouraged a morbid curiosity which should be removed from the face of the earth. J. B. Mortimer, opposing the motion, spoke at length on the history of hunting and coursing, and on the methods employed, claiming that there was little cruelty. Foxhunting provided an effective method for keeping down foxes. C. D. Ryder then seconded the motion; he claimed that other methods of killing pests were less cruel and that the farmers and poultry-keepers themselves preferred these methods. C. M. Bainton, speaking fourth, said that the abolition of hunting and coursing was an encroachment on our freedom to enjoy sports; it was only the beginning of a movement which would in time extend to such sports as fishing and shooting. The debate was then thrown open to the House, and speeches were made by Griffiths, J. C., Chatterton, King, C. D., Unwin, Mr. Rhodes, Wheatley, Hilton, Mr. Le Tocq, and Buttrum. The motion was defeated by 64 votes to 48. The third meeting of the term was held on Saturday, 30th October, when the motion was "That modern amusements cater only for those who do not wish to think." Mr. L. B. Burgess, proposing the motion, analysed the main forms of modern amusement, claiming that they all had one thing in common—noise. Noise and clear thinking were incompatible. 26
D. C. Jack, who opposed the motion, showed that amusements were intended to supply those elements normally lacking in life. He elaborated this fundamental point by referring to the many organisations and movements which supply such amusements. N. B. Burgess seconded the motion. He emphasized some of the points made by the proposer, saying that modern entertainments provided alternatives to thought. D. J. Wilson, seconding the opposition, devoted the main body of his speech to an examination of the merits of the film in encouraging thought, saying in this connection that the film was a new art form, and to appreciate art one must think. When the debate was thrown open to the House, speeches were made by Markus, Mason, Holmes, Unwin, Jackson, Cobham, King, C. D., Daneff, Griffiths, J. C., and Frater. The motion was defeated by 69 votes to 54. The next meeting was held on Saturday, 13th November, when the motion was "That this House would approve rearmament even at the expense of economic recovery." Mr. Crews proposed the motion. He said that the world was divided into two camps : Russian communism and the Western democracies, and we must therefore re-arm to safeguard our economy. J. M. Graham, opposing the motion, said that if Britain gave a lead to the world by disarming completely, other nations would follow suit and international suspicion would disappear. We had not the wealth to re-arm before economic recovery. A. R. Royle then seconded the proposition. He said that if we had been armed in 1939 the disasters of the early years of the war would have been avoided. The Russian danger must be guarded against. P. J. R. Mason, who seconded the opposition, said that Communism must be opposed by economic prosperity and that the Russian danger rests in her suspicion of capitalist powers. This could be counteracted by a firm economic stand. The debate was then thrown open to the House and speeches were made by Jackson, Cobham, Markus, Kelsey, Reid-Smith, Frater, Jack, Hunt, Haxby, Chatterton, Berg, Powell, and Kendell. The motion was carried by 83 votes to 21. The final meeting of the term took place on Saturday, 4th December. It had been decided that a full debate should not be held, but that two short discussions should be held on subjects already debated. The first discussion revived the question of the alolition of the death penalty. N. B. Burgess spoke for the abolition and J. B. Mortimer against. The main points made for the abolition were that no one had the right to decide on such a penalty and that the countries 27
with the lowest murder rate had already abolished the death penalty. In answer to these points the opposition stated that the State had the right to decide, that other countries were no parallel, and, in addition, that the death penalty was the strongest deterrent to the worst crime—murder. The speakers from the House were Booth, Powell, Wheatley, Cobham, Baker, Markus, Beachell, Kelsey, Hunt, Unwin, Pallant, the Chaplain, and Berg. The motion was defeated by 89 votes to 9, whereas last year the motion was carried by 42 votes to 22. In the second discussion D. J. Wilson proposed "That this House considers compulsory military service at the present time inadvisable." Three main points made by the proposition were that the scheme did not promote efficiency, that it spoilt one's career and one's character. The opposition, led by J. F. N. Jackson, answered these points and recommended a larger standing army in preference to the other alternative—a large Territorial force. The speakers from the House were Unwin, Cobham, Beachell Booth, Burgess, Smithson, Markus, Bainton, and Lochore. The motion was defeated by 78 votes to 16. Last year the voting was 53 for and 15 against.
VERSE By S. Daneff THE PURIFICATION The deep ulcerations of regret and pain, set inside us the horror of a desert. To cleanse, to cut, to freeze out the old pains, and shout free our finest thoughts across the clear expanses of incandescent ice, is the aim. A glowing, ecstatic, scintillating plain, whose cool, hard arms will hold an invitation that does not know regret, the incandescent waste, whose coolness cleanses us into the purity of the keenest blade. 28
AN INCANTATION We have lost the sun, We have lost the sanctity Of black and white, We have lost the relief Of conception By dividing By parting By partly living And partly dying; We have lost the core, The solidity of earth, The muscular ties between Sun and earth; We are living And partly living And there is only Partial ecstasy; There is Incompleteness And shading No tremor Of full realisation.
THE MUSICAL SOCIETY The Winter Term has seen the continuation of the weekly gramophone recitals on Wednesdays at 12-30 p.m. in Big Hall. They have been very successful. Recitals have been arranged by :R. M. Booth and E. G. Thompson. D. P. Norwood and R. J. Frater. D. A. Haxby and R. Hawkins. M. W. Sanderson and D. C. Jack. I. S. Berg and D. J. Osborne. R. A. Jackson and R. F. Wyman. J. M. Smithson and P. McL. Walshaw.
Two Saturday evening recitals and an informal orchestral concert by the School Orchestra are reported below.
ORGAN RECITAL by MR. FREDERIC WAINE On Saturday, 6th November, Mr. Waine gave an Organ Recital entitled "Borrowed Melodies". With the exception of the first item, which was in the form of variations followed by a fugue on the theme of the chorale "Vater unser im Himmelreich", the programme consisted of chorale preludes. In his introductory remarks Mr. Waine explained how the need for these chorale preludes had been felt in 29
the Lutheran Church and how the early improvisations of organists had crystallised later into the art-form of the chorale prelude or choral improvisation which had claimed the attention of practically all the composers of organ music. There was a large audience and the programme was greatly enjoyed. PROGRAMME
Mendelssohn 1. Sonata No. 6 (Op. 65). First two movements "Vater unser im Himmelreich" (Our Father which art in heaven) 2. Chorale Preludes (i) "Martyrdom" (As pants the hart for cooling streams) C. Hubert H. Parry
(ii) "Melcombe" (New mercies each returning day, Hover around us while we pray)
7 S. Bach
3. Chorale Preludes (i) "Herzlich thut mich verlangen" (The Passion Chorale) (ii) "Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme" (Sleepers wake) (iii) "Es ist gewisslich an der Zeit" 4. Prelude on an old Irish Church Melody (S. Colomba) "The King of love my Shepherd is"
C. V. Stanford
5. Choral Improvisations (i) "Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir" (ii) "Nun danket alle Gott"
Karg-Elert
LECTURE RECITAL by BERNARD SHORE On the evening of Saturday, 13th November, Mr. Bernard Shore gave a lecture recital to the whole School in the Big Hall. Firstly he described the history of the viola. It was developed to its present form in 1723 by Stradivari, who is principally famed for his valuable violins. Its pitch is a fifth below that of the violin. Its tone lacks the brilliance and incisiveness of the violin, being more dark and "veiled" in quality. It is therefore less effective as a solo instrument. Until recently it was never much liked by composers, who found it too heavy and ignored it in favour of the violin and 'cello. The classical composers of the time naturally wrote for the most popular instruments, and while there is an abundance of violin and 'cello music of the time, there is none for the viola. It was not until about 1900 that the viola came into its own, mainly through the efforts of Lionel Tertis, probably the greatest viola player there has ever been. From then an increasing amount of music has been written for it by Vaughan Williams, Bax, Carse, and many 'other contemporary composers. With the exception of the Vaughan Williams pieces, the programme consisted of pieces arranged for the viola from 'cello or violin originals. 30
I
Mr. Shore played with great feeling and skill. The Haydn was very moving, bringing out the full tone and richness of the instrument, especially in the slower passages. The Carol by Vaughan Williams was one of the most enjoyable pieces, its liveliness giving full scope to the wide range of the viola. He was accompanied by Mr. F. Waine at the piano. The recital was generally appreciated and enjoyed. The programme was as follows :1. 2nd Movement and Finale from 'Cello Concerto in D
Haydn
2. Rondo from Haffner Serenade
Mozart
3. (a) Slavonic Dance in G minor (b) Carol (c) Christmas Dance
Dvorak Vaughan Williams Vaughan Williams
INFORMAL CONCERT The School Orchestra conducted by Mr. F. Waine gave an informal concert in Big Hall at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, 8th December. The orchestra was led by Mr. G. W. Stevens with Mr. Wicks at the piano. Solos were played by Norwood and Mason. The concert was well atended, and the work of the orchestra was much appreciated. The programme was as follows :1. Suite for Orchestra (arr. for strings by James Brown and G.W.S., with
additional wind and drum parts by F.W.) (i) Gavotte from the Fifth French Suite 3. S. Bach (1685-1750) (originally composed for keyboard instrument) (ii) Sarabande 7. S. Bach (originaly composed for violoncello solo) (iii) Simfonie to "Jephtha" G. F. Handel (1685-1759) (originally composed for string orchestra) (iv) Largo G. F. Handel (originally composed for alto voice, strings and continuo) (v) Gavotte and Musette 3. S. Bach (originally composed for violoncello solo)
2. Corvente from Sonata No. 11 in G minor Solo violin D. P. NORWOOD.
Henry Eccles (d. 1742)
:
3. Romance
Berthold Tours (1838-1897)
Solo violoncello P. J. R. MASON. :
4. Pomp and Circumstance No. 4 Edward Elgar (1857-1934) Pianoforte MR. E. A. WICKS. Conductor MR. F. WAINE. :
:
31
THE SCIENCE SOCIETY President: E. K. ROBINSON, EsQ., B.Sc. Hon. Secretary: R. J. GIBSON. Hon. Treasurer: M. A. CROSS.
Five meetings on varied topics were held this term. The first was on 25th September, when a lecture on photography was given by Mr. Thos. H. Mason, an exhibition of whose photographs was held at the end of the previous term. After giving some advice for taking photographs he projected on the screen some slides taken by himself, most of which were in Kodachrome. He had some very beautiful photographs, including some of the Lake District, Scotland, Knaresborough, Barnard Castle, Dartmouth, Kirkham Abbey, Torquay, and some very good ones of the "Moorlands", a pleasant garden stretch just outside York. He included several slides in which he had made mistakes, pointing them out. His last five photographs were of York itself. Questions were asked during the lecture and at the end. Mr. Robinson was in the chair. The second lecture, on 9th October, entitled "Aeronautics", was given by Mr. Harris. He described how experiments were made in wind tunnels, and went on to explain about aerofoils, the cross sections of the wing. He described how if flaps and slots are used a greater angle of attack can be obtained without the plane stalling, and by means of the epidiascope showed several graphs to illustrate lift and drag, and the angle of attack for different aerofoils. He described how a plane landed, and how planes looped the loop, went into spins, and turned by banking. He also told us about the three axes of the plane, about which it could turn by movement of the ailerons, elevators and rudder. The talk was illustrated with the epidiascope, and by a model. Questions were asked at the end. There was a large attendance, and Mr. Crews was chairman. The business meeting was held at the end of Mr. Harris' lecture. A senior, a middle, and a junior representative from each House were elected on to the Committee. The treasurer and secretary were re-elected. The third meeting was held on 23rd October. Three films were shown entitled "Roots", "Civil Engineering", and "The Story of Ceylon". The first film showed the growth of the root from the embryo. The sensitive tip could clearly be seen. The growth of the root hairs, etc., were also shown. The second film, "Civil Engineering", described the many tasks under civil engineering, and explained how a power station is built from the surveying of the site to the finished building. The third and last film, "The Story of Ceylon", was about Ceylon from early days to the present day, showing the life of the people, their religion, and their ceremonial dances. Weird Eastern music accompanied the film throughout. :
32
On 27th November Mr. J. E. Collins, the chief engineer at the G.P.O., gave an illustrated lecture with demonstrations entitled "Telecommunications". Mr. Pallier, his assistant, worked the epidiascope. He introduced his talk by describing how the telephone transmitter and receiver and their complications worked. With the help of pictures from the epidiascope Mr. Collins showed us both types of exchanges, and described in detail how an automatic exchange works. Mr. Collins also described frequencies and the coaxial cable. Questions were asked at the end, and Mr. Pallier, who had brought along a model automatic telephone exchange, constructed by himself, demonstrated it with two telephones. Mr. Robinson was in the chair. The last meeting of term was held on 1 1 th December, when Mr. Le Tocq gave a lecture on "Soil Erosion". We were to have had two films as well, but these did not arrive, and we appreciate Mr. Le Tocq's willingness to fill the breach so well at such short notice. He described the different types of erosion, particularly in the U.S.A., emphasised its seriousness, and explained the causes and the cures. A VISIT TO A CHOCOLATE FACTORY On 17th November a visit was paid by sixteen boys, representing the Science Society, to the Bishopthorpe Road factory of Messrs. Joseph Terry & Sons, Ltd. The arrangements were made by Mr. Noel Terry, a Governor of the School, and to him we are very grateful. The group of visitors was welcomed by the firm's chief chemist, Mr. Marston, who first of all gave us an introductory talk about the manufacture of chocolate. The firm imports cocoa beans from Africa, the West Indies, Samoa and Venezuela, where the very best beans are grown. The cocoa beans grow in red or yellow pods, which hang from the trunk of the cocoa tree. The beans are heaped up and fermented, dried, and put into sacks. Terry's blend different varieties of beans to obtain the finest flavour obtainable. In addition, vanilla pods are imported, for vanilla flavouring is the base upon which the flavour of chocolate is built. Vanilla pods are long and slim, and are fermented just like the cocoa beans. After storing, a mass of white needle crystals can be seen on the pods; this is "Vanillin". Vanillin can be made synthetically, but the firm prefers to use the natural product, as the flavour is superior to that of artificial vanillin, the former being accompanied by other flavours. The cocoa beans contain about 50 per cent fat, or "cocoa butter". This is used in the manufacture of chocolate, but as this percentage is insufficient to make good chocolate, a quantity of the beans is crushed and the fat is extracted and later on is mixed into the chocolate. After this talk, Mr. Marston took us to see the whole process for ourselves. The beans, dried and cleaned, are first roasted in gasheated hot-air oven to about 250 degrees F. The beans are then 33
cooled and husked, the residue being known as "nibs". The nibs are then ground very finely so that the cocoa butter is crushed out, and the product is a very smooth liquid, which to our untutored eyes was as smooth as possible. We had a lot to see, however, before the chefs were satisfied ! This smooth liquid is then mixed with sugar powder and refined several times in special machines, and the product is often tested microscopically to ensure its being fine enough. The superfine powder is mixed with cocoa butter and ground again in machines called "melangeurs". Finally, the liquid is mixed in a machine called a "conche" for several days until the grains are smoothed to a homogeneous texture. Our guide regretted that milk chocolate production is temporarily suspended, the firm's herds of cows giving their milk to the Milk Pool. The plain chocolate is cooled in vast ammonia refrigerators and stored in 56 lb. blocks until it is wanted. As we were to view the production of fancy chocolates, we were taken into the main block of the factory. This is half as long and half as wide as the "Queen Mary". On the roof stands the air-conditioning plant, which makes the air admitted to the block a uniform temperature of 65 degrees F. and a relative humidity of 55 per cent, which is best for the workers and the chocolate. The top floor is devoted to the making of the different centres. We saw and smelt caramels, fondants, coffee cream, almond, nut, fruit, gingers and fudges being made. Tearing ourselves away we inspected the apparatus for making glace cherries and fondant cream. This cream is really a paste of very fine crystals of sugars and glucose. In the next department the liquid centres are cast into ingenious starch moulds. Next door, we came to the covering department, where the raw chocolate is flavoured and mixed with the final amount of cocoa butter. First of all the 56 lb. blocks are melted in a large oven, and then the hot yellow fat is mixed in. The different centres are placed on conveyor belts which deposit them on a perforated drum, which ingeniously coats the bottom of the centres. Each belt then takes the centres over a super-cooled section, where the chocolate sets, and into the covering machine, which pours chocolate over them. The chocolates pass on over embossed papers, which stamp "Terry" underneath. At the same time the chocolates are ornamented on top. The belt carries the chocolates to the cooling department, where they are set in trays. When the chocolates are set they are weighed and sent to the packing department. Here certain lines of chocolate are wrapped in silver papers by an ingenious system of mechanical fingers. The chocolates are finally placed in trays at the ends of the packing lines, each tray holding one type of chocolate. The chocolates are packed in cartons by girls and women, who between them pack some 4,000 each day, each box taking only seconds to assemble. A packer takes 34
I, '
a supply of cartons and papers and 10 oz. trays. Each tray holds the supply of chocolates for one box, each trayful being weighed. Then she packs them into boxes—papers, a layer of chocolates with or without paper cups, more shredded paper, more chocolates, a piece of chocolate-coloured paper, a guarantee, a final polish for the chocolates, the box is topped up and the price label is stuck on—all in some thirty seconds ! The girls, who do piece-work, can certainly pack boxes at a tremendous rate. Amazed by this bewildering industry, we turned to the export lines. Here the most wonderful boxes are packed; so wonderful that they are not made nowadays, the firm using large stocks built up before the war. Some of the special boxes are covered with beautiful French brocades, or ribbons; some of them are like baskets, some like nests of drawers. The very variety of these boxes made our mouths water. We left our hosts with great regret, and carried away an impression of spotless cleanliness, industrious and cheerful workers, and amazement at the wonders we had seen.
THE ART GROUP
The pottery that was commenced last year has now finally been glazed, giving us quite a unique style of St. Peter's "Chinaware". Perhaps of all craftwork, pottery is capable of giving the greatest satisfaction in pride of achievement to the practitioner. Later it may be possible to build a simple kiln somewhere in the grounds. Towards the end of term, as the weather becomes more suitable, it is hoped to arrange several "week-end" painting excursions into York to paint in oil "on the spot". One way, at least, fully to appreciate the architectural achievements with which York abounds, lies in attempting to record pictorially local scenes, with all the memory and observation concentration this demands. Also as part of future "Art Policy" it is hoped to give occasional illustrated talks concerning the history and evolution of man's creative efforts and of the important influence which previous artistic trends and thought exert upon our present day life. This term is also seeing some experiments being made in fabric printing—the "option" are printing ties ! Some of the designs give revealing insight into the artists' interests and personalities. Entries for the Needham Architecture Prize should by now be under way ! Any person who has not yet obtained his material is invited to do so as soon as possible. Now that the two basement rooms in School House are to be used as Art Rooms, especially for "out of School" work, any person wishing to take advantage of this additional "space" should let Mr. Collier know when they would wish to use the rooms. 35
BRITISH SHIP ADOPTION SOCIETY During the summer holidays the "Mountpark" at last left Auckland, where she had been held up by labour difficulties since 9th May. Orders were to proceed to Sydney to load flour for Britain, but the charterers exercised an option in the contract and the flour was taken to Penang instead, much, we gather, to the disappointment of the ship's company, who had expected to be home just in time for Christmas. Instead, leaving Penang on 1st December, they were back at Sydney, once more loading flour. Our latest news is that she was due to leave Sydney for Britain early in January. Some very interesting mail arrived from Mr. Ellis during the term, noteworthy being a blue print of the ship, about five feet long, which taught us much we did not know about the modern freighter. We are grateful, too, for some New Zealand papers and for answers to many queries, many of the latter having been sent by the Second Officer, Mr. Greenhough. The following extracts from Mr. Greenhough's observations may be of interest. FISHING IN NEW ZEALAND The fishing industry of New Zealand is not a very large one, and the principal catches are flounder, snapper, blue cod, and groper. The fishing boats are only small vessels and do not go very far afield, most of their work being done off the harbours. We used to see the boats going out from Auckland, and I think they usually stay away for about three days. The only figures I have to hand concerning catches are for 1930, when a total of 367,647 cwts. was landed in New Zealand. Perhaps if you have some figures of the catches at home you could draw a comparison. Shellfish are abundant in New Zealand. The principal oyster beds are in the Foveaux Strait, whilst prolific rock-oyster beds are found in the Bay of Islands. Crayfish, which are like lobsters, are popular here, and a "quick-freeze" process is now being used for exporting them to Canada and the U.S.A. There is a small whaling industry here, but it has been declining gradually in recent years and now there is only one whaling station —at Pictou, in the Marlborough Sound. Seals used to be taken until a few years ago, when it was prohibited. There are sharks in New Zealand waters, but not very many of them. They are found around the North Island, but are seldom seen in the harbours, and bathers need not have the same fears as they have in Australia. The types of shark found in New Zealand are Marko and Marlin. Big game fishermen do visit New Zealand for their sport, but I think they mostly come for tunny fish. 36
THE MAORIS The Maoris enjoy equal rights with the white people. Quite a I number are to be seen in the cities and towns, and there has been a certain amount of inter-marriage, but on no great scale. It would not be true to say that they are mostly to be found in any particular area, like Rotorua, for instance, but the greatest percentage is in the North Island. At Rotorua they maintain their own way of life and culture, which helps the tourist interest in that area. Incidentally, the Maori word for "white man" is "pakeha". The Maoris are a likable people and they have some fine songs and dances. Their carvings are really good. The museum in Auckland has the finest collection of Maori carvings in the world. I have visited there and seen some beautiful craftsmanship, one particularly fine piece is a war canoe eighty feet long with a high stern elaborately carved.
"AND SO TO KENYA" [The following account of her journey by air to Kenya by Mrs. Baird will no doubt be read with interest by her many friends among the readers of The Peterite.] In bright, breezy weather we left Croydon Airport about 9-30 a.m., due to arrive in Paris l+ hours later. However, we had to circle Paris for over an hour before we were allowed to land. An old friend met me at Le Bourget and we had dejeuner together. Loaded with magazines and good wishes, I climbed into the Dakota which was to take me to the end of my journey. We covered France pretty quickly, arriving at Marseilles; from there, skirting the Riviera, we flew round the head of Corsica, past Elba and Capri, finally landing in Rome 2+ hours late on account of had flying weather. It was lashing with rain and we had to go from tent to tent for customs and passport formalities. The passport officers seemed extremely chatty among themselves, but slow in dealing with us. However, we finally climbed into the bus, arriving at our hotel about 9-30 p.m. The hotel was most comfortable, and we had an excellent meal, getting off to bed about midnight, with the knowledge that we had to be up at 2 a.m. ! We all made it and soon were en route for the airport, where we had breakfast. We set off about 5-30 a.m. for Athens in bad flying weather, passing scores of small, barren islands in the wonderful blue sea, and in about 3+ hours were in Sunny Greece, where we re-fuelled and had cool drinks. Then on to Cairo, where we touched down about 3-30 p.m. As Egypt is at war, we were not allowed to move about the airfield unescorted. I was one of two who had an Egyptian visa and so was allowed into the city of Cairo, though they sent an escort with me for my own safety. The others, even the aircrew, were confined to the hotel, and two Italians had to spend the night at the airport under guard. They were not pleased. 37
Cairo is a fascinating city with lovely buildings and gardens and flowering shrubs. We were lodged in a really lovely hotel, outstanding for its architecture. The hotel people were most friendly, and could not do enough for us. We had dinner on a broad, rounded balcony, at small tables, overlooking dream gardens of palm trees and luscious flowers, a full moon lighting up the scene. And so to bed, each guest having his own private suite. The service was excellent, the food had to be seen to be believed after our Spartan fare. Up at 3 a.m., breakfast 4 a.m., and then to the airport, where the officers were friendly and recognised us. We left about 6-30 am for Khartoum, flying over the desert, following the course of the Nile— the Nile with its little ships—one wondered what they were all doing, whither going? It was a bad, bumpy passage. We climbed to over 12,000 feet and the plane dived and heaved like a ship in a very heavy sea. For five hours we endured this, until Khartoum, our next stop, where it was overpoweringly hot. We put down for refuelling and had cool drinks, then on again for another five hours over the desert. We were to have spent the night at Wadi Haifa, but owing to bad flying conditions, couldn't make it, so put down at Juba. Here we climbed into a truck, with forms each side, and our night luggage piled down the middle, and were soon at the hotel, run by the Sudanese railways. It was managed by an ex-Army staff captain who had served three years in the Eighth Army. He told me he was alone in the morning, but in the afternoon five plane loads landed owing to bad weather. When asked about the catering for so many unexpected guests, he said, "Oh ! I chased and killed a pig, and that's what you will all eat tonight." The dinner was adequate and well served by white-gowned, bare-footed, ebony Africans. There seemed enough for all and plenty of Player's cigarettes at 8/- per 100 ! Juba landing ground consists of flat fields—there are no runways, and after Khartoum it seemed fresh and countrified. The district abounds in game. The manager told me the lions were fairly tame. They had a pet one at the hotel called Jimmy, who, each night, was tied up to a statue. The story goes that one of the guests, returning from a merry night at a friend's bungalow, met a lion in the middle of the road. He said, "Naughty Jimmy, you should be at home," and so saying, got behind the lion and pushed it back to the hotel, where he found Jimmy tied to his statue ! Up at 4 a.m., breakfast, and we mounted our primitive lorry, and were soon back in our Dakota, on the last lap for me, and one or two others. The country rapidly became more fertile, and after about four hours' flying we touched down at Nairobi, where my son and son-in-law awaited me. My son had previously been in touch with the customs and immigration authorities, asking them not to put his mother in prison, so I was greeted in a most friendly manner, and all formalities were over in six minutes. 38
Fa
r It was good to be at the end of my journey and with the family, nd I could hardly realise that six days ago I was in York. After coffee and strawberry shortcake, we drove out 19 miles to the Brackenhurst Hotel, approximately 7,000 feet above sea level. This hotel is almost a tiny township with its picturesque houses dotted all over the beautiful grounds, each with its own lovely view. I was in the main portion, and my room gave on to a wide verandah. Each room was fitted up with h. and c., a comfortable bed, and easy chairs, and always a bowl of lovely fresh flowers. Flowers grow in great (I must profusion in the gardens, and are tended with much care. mention the wood fire we had in our rooms each night; that was a joy.) An excellent golf course adjoined the hotel, and there were good tennis courts. It seemed strange in the heart of Africa. After five days at Brackenhurst we set out for Nanyuki, via Naivasha, Gilgit and Thompson's Falls. At Naivasha we visited the Country Club after re-fuelling at the garage. There are plenty of garages in all the townships, and they do good business, as everyone is dependent on a car for covering these vast distances. We saw ostriches, herds of Thompson's gazelles—pretty creatures—several large secretary birds, and the greater buzzard or Kori Pou. The secretary bird is black and white and has sharp, razor-like scales on its long legs with which it cuts up and kills its prey. It takes off exactly like an aeroplane, running with increasing speed, then folding up its long legs or undercarriage when it is airborne. Wings outspread all the time —fascinating to watch. At Thompson's Falls we crossed the Equator, going over a small bridge, and as we retraced our steps going up to the hotel, and then back again, this made three times. We crossed the Equator again going into Nanyuki and I had crossed it during my flight to Nairobi. Since then I have crossed it six times, making eleven times in just over a week; pretty good going, I thought. The view of the Falls from the grounds of the hotel was an inspiring sight, the water running along the flat with clear intent, then dashing over the falls-287 feet—with the most wonderful rainbow effects caused by the sun on the splashing water. We gazed and gazed. The splendid sight left an ineradicable memory. On to Nanyuki. The roads were very bad in places, in others quite good, considering this is an undeveloped country. dur destination was 12 miles from Nanyuki, a most attractive place and a veritable paradise for bird-lovers—dainty little "cordon-bleus", the golden auriole in its colourful beauty, the various coloured starlings—peacock green, golden, turquoise blue—the mouse-bird, the hoopoe, and many others. The song of birds is with us all day, and as dusk falls the harsh croaking of the giant bull-frogs jars the scented air. The toto or garden boy sings a little monotonous chant as he weeds and waters, a chant on three notes, rhythmic and attractive. I have written it down. 39
One day we went for a picnic, driving mile after mile through the bush, hoping to see giraffes. We were most fortunate, and saw a large herd of these fantastic creatures, who lined up and stared at us. Some of them were 20 feet. It really was a laughable sight. When they had stared enough, they nibbled the tops of the trees, lined up and stared again. So here I am at my journey's end, for the meantime, a journey crammed full with new sights, sounds, smells and experiences, but— my thoughts are with you all at St. Peter's. Greetings to you all. MABEL BAIRD.
THE C.C.F. This term finds a great many changes in the School training corps. Like most other schools we have changed over from the Junior Training Corps to the Combined Cadet Force. The main difference from last year is that for training we are divided up into an Army section, a Naval section, a Basic Training section, and the Recruits. When a cadet has passed out from the Recruits he joins the Basic section, where he is trained for Cert. "A", Part I. Having gained Part I he may then either join the Army section and take Cert. "A", Part II, or he may join the Naval section, about which more will be said later. Apart from these four main groups there are some subsidiary groups such as the Signals, Motor Transport, and Six-pounder Gun Crew. Although the training is carried out as indicated above, threequarters of an hour per week is devoted to falling in as a company, inspections, and ceremonial drill. For these parades we go back to the old organisation of House platoons. By this means a keen sense of completion and our usual high standard of smartness are maintained. On 18th November the company ventured out in the City of York for the first time this year. We were led by the band and marched right round the city walls. We are sure that every one who saw the parade will agree that a high standard of marching was attained. The band and the recruits are to be especially congratulated on their performances. It would seem fitting at this point to mention something about the recruits. Of course, this term has been devoted to the fundamental drill movements on the parade ground, and considering that this is their first term in the C.C.F. the recruits are quite capable of taking part in a full parade. As previously mentioned a Naval section has been introduced into the C.C.F. under the command of Lieut. Jeffs, assisted by Mr. Waine. The term has been spent mainly on signalling practice with Aldis lamps, and steering instruction by Mr. Waine. The naval rig arrived near the end of term, but no uniform parade has been possible as yet. 40
At regular intervals equipment has passed into the Naval Stores to be dealt with by the Naval section supply ratings. Lastly, we would like to show our appreciation to our commanding officer, Major Crews, and his staff for all the work they must have done in reorganising our new Combined Cadet Force contingent.
SCOUTING There have been few outstanding events to record this term. None the less there has been apparent a marked increase of effort and enthusiasm, particularly among the Junior School Patrols. There has been a strong revival of interest in first aid, and twelve Scouts gained the first aid badge. Altogether fourteen proficiency badges were gained and five Scouts completed their 2nd class badge. Once again we had favourable weather for out-of-door activities, and we have been able to do a satisfactory amount of pioneering. We managed to get a good deal of fun from building transporters, an aerial runway, and on another occasion from an obstacle race. The Troop has acquired the loan of a bee hive from the local association, to whom it was presented for the use of any Scout interested in bee keeping. The hive has been taken over by J. M. Holt, who is a keen apiarist. We are pleased to record the award to our G.S.M., Mr. K. G. Chilman, of the long service emblem, marking fifteen years as a Scouter. The presentation was made by the D.C., Colonel T. Preston, at a Scouters' Meeting on 13th September. For several years at Christmas time the Group has made a collection of toys, etc., and has distributed them among the York Children's Homes and Hospitals. This year, by way of a change, we are collecting used Christmas cards and calendars in order to send them to the Andrew Davison Christmas Card Industry. This organization, manned by disabled ex-Service men, renovates the cards and sells them again in aid of the British Legion funds. The approaching end of term was celebrated by a highly successful Camp Fire. There was a full attendance of the Troop, and the items put on by the various Patrols showed much improvement on previous occasions.
SHOOTING We began the term with six of last year's VIII still with us, but, unfortunately, Frank broke an arm before our first fixture and was unable to shoot in any matches. Despite this setback the team has met with considerable success, and has won three of the four matches 41
shot. Against Worksop College the score was by no means out of the ordinary, but considerable improvement followed, and after victories over George Watson's College and Leeds Grammar School, the team made its best score of the term to defeat Ampleforth College, last year's winners of the "Country Life" Competition. The 1st VIII was *J. A. Hannon (Capt.) (average 81.75), *R. Parker (82.5), *G. W. J. Griffiths (83.0), *A. M. Baird (83.0), R. D. Watson (80.75), *J. U. Burdass (83.75),. D. M. Findlay (81.75), P. C. Knowlson (82.5). Reserve : D. A. Hopkins. * Indicates colours.
It is with regret that we have to say "Goodbye" to J. U. Burdass, who has shot very well this term, but, with the expectation of Frank's return, we are looking forward to next term's results with some optimism The 2nd VIII has shot two matches, winning one of them. In their match against Ampleforth College 2nd VIII the team scored 640, which exceeded their previous highest by 27 points. This was a fine effort, which, though not good enough to win the match, gives good promise for the future. The following formed the 2nd VIII :—D. A. Hopkins (average 81.33), G. M. Herring (79.25), C. W. D. Green (76.33), N. B. Burgess (79.33), D. L. Hourigan (80.66), R. I. Hunt (77.66), D. Walter (74.66), and W. B. Powell (73.66). Reserve : R. J. Shardlow. Results :1st VIII. St. Peter's School 640—Worksop College 669. St. Peter's School 658—George Watson's College 617. St. Peter's School 660—Leeds Grammar School 588. St. Peter's School 667—Ampleforth College 662. 2nd VIII. St. Peter's School 607—Worksop College 597. St. Peter's School 640—Ampleforth College 655.
SQUASH We returned to School to find that the floor of our one and only squash court had collapsed. As there was no hope of repairing it this term, it seemed more than likely that there would be no squash at all, for this term, at least. Fortunately, however, this was not to be, as an agreement was made between the School and the Railway Institute, by which boys could make use of the Railway Institute courts at certain times on four days in the week. Mainly because of the distance between the School and the Railway Institute (over a mile), and competition from the other sports, only a few boys have taken advantage of the facilities offered. Next fern', however, with the prospect of some School matches, it is expected, and hoped, that a greater number of boys will find time to play squash and keep the sport alive in the School. 42
CHESS During the Christmas Term five futures were arranged. Five out of seven of last year's team were still with us, and Herring, G. M., and Herring, J. C. M., were chosen to fill the vacant places. The first match of the season was against Clifton Hospital. The Hospital, who finished second in the York League last season, sent a very strong team, including a player who a few days before had obtained a draw against the Russian chess master, Znosko-Berovsky. The School team did well to lose only by the narrow margin of 41-21. Daneff and Herring, J. C. M., won; Burgess obtained a draw. On 20th October we played St. John's College, and although without Burgess, we only lost 4-3. Goode and Herring, G. A., won, and Herring, J. C. M., and Jenkins drew. The next three matches were against other York schools, and we hoped to do better in these; unfortunately, for the remaining matches our captain, Jenkins, and third board, Burgess, were unable to play. Goode took over the captaincy and did well with the depleted team to secure a draw against Nunthorpe and only to lose 5-2 against Bootham. Mention must be made of Elliot, who came in for the last two matches and won both his games. The match with Archbishop Holgate's was cancelled.
RUGBY FOOTBALL, 1948 RETROSPECT In one of the driest seasons perhaps for many years, the rugger throughout the School has made good progress, and match results compare very favourably with any within the past ten years or more. How very much we would truly like to say "Gone are the days when we mud-larked on the fields at School," but undoubtedly our playing fields are so much improved that we can now honestly say that, provided the weather is kind, we can expect to play in conditions which are conducive to good rugger. In fact it became very evident that the drier and faster the conditions the better the School teams played, whereas in mud and amidst treacherous foot-holds we were slow to adjust ourselves and always appeared more handicapped than our opponents. What a very different story it is now compared with the days when we prayed for a mud-lark, for instance when Worksop paid their annual visit. Perhaps it means that we have learnt to rely less upon the old kick-and-rush methods, but now try to play a more open, attractive and combined form of rugger. We can gain most encouragement from the fact that our strength lies not with the 1st XV alone, who normally take all the credit and glory, but with all the teams of varying age groups throughout the 43
School. All teams have won more inter-school matches than they have lost, and, with the exception of the Junior Colts XV, who started the season very shakily, the balance of points in each case is well in our favour. The 1st XV have Durham, Bradford, Worksop, and Giggleswick as their victims, their convincing win at Worksop being the first for 25 years. The 2nd XV, however, take the honours for the season, for who can remember the "stooges" gaining five wins ever before? And how near were two of their defeats ! It was the strength of this 2nd XV which brought about such healthy rivalry to fill the remaining places in the 1st XV, particularly in the forwards; and without such competition perhaps some might not have been stirred to greater activity even now. At one time a complete upheaval of the 1st XV pack seemed necessary, and the introduction of fresh blood essential, but in the end, although injuries gave one or two others an opportunity to play for the School, our earliest and first selections seemed to prove as good as any. Once the season had progressed beyond a certain stage, it is difficult if not wrong to start interfering with team-building and the spirit that grows within a real team, and so it is not altogether surprising that sometimes we are left in doubt as to whether the best XV has been finally selected. The forwards were considerably heavier than of late years, but it was by their resourcefulness in the loose rather than by their application of weight in the scrums that they made the most telling effect on their opponents. Gaining possession of the ball was not their strong point, but their covering in defence was good, and the pack certainly reached devastating form against Worksop when everyone played themselves to a standstill. The backs were very much more sure of themselves and learnt a lot as the season advanced.
1st XV CHARACTERS
* tR. Parker (Captain), 1947-48. He was never able to give his team the
inspiration they were looking for. As a robust wing-forward he showed his paces much more in attack than in defence. As a place-kicker he was most valuable in the absence of any others, but his methods were unorthodox and often led to disappointment. *tD. Walter (Vice-Captain), 1947-48. As leader of the forwards he has done an invaluable job of work. His hooking was not particularly effective, but probably he needed more assistance from behind. In the loose he is a very useful forward and keeps well up on the ball. * tF. C. Slegg, 1947-48. Stand-off half. Slight of limb and neat of foot. He has an elusive run, and has developed an eye for the occasional opening. As the term progressed so he has shown better and better form, and has set his three-quarters going well. * tP. T. Baker, 1947-48. A sound centre three-quarter, particularly good in defence. He lacked nothing in keenness and enthusiasm, but he hasn't yet learnt to spot and go for an opening. He was a tireless worker and is gaining a good knowledge of the game.
44
fR. J. Townshend, 1948. A grand forward when on the top of his form, but he seemed unable to sustain his earlier efforts and maintain the very great promise shown. From his position in the middle of the back row he was responsible for some splendid work in the open, but success must not lead him to adopt the unforgivable habit of standing aside and awaiting his opportunity. fJ. F. N. Jackson, 1948. A most promising scrum-half who sent out a good service from the base of the scrum. Longer and harder passes with a minimum of delay must be his aim. He has learnt and used effectively the very occasional break-away on his own. He must always be prepared to "take" it and "mix" it with the opposing forwards, the hallmark of a finished player in his position. fJ. C. Varley, 1948. A strong and well-built front-row forward who seldom ever shone, but who got through a lot of good work. His height should enable him to be more in the picture at the line-out. fM. E. Kershaw, 1948. A most promising young player with good physique and a long-striding run. His tackling is still a bit high and not yet very convincing. In his position on the wing first and foremost he must use all his speed and go for the line or corner-flag; second thoughts only must be his consideration for someone backing him up. He has already developed a good hand-off which, when combined with body swerve and varying pace, should take him a long way. fJ. M. Graham, 1948. Early promise was not fully maintained, probably because he had to move into the centre away from his more accustomed position on the wing. In defence he erred in waiting for his opponent to come the last few yards towards him, whilst in attack he always appeared cramped for space. fJ. U. Burdass, 1948. Wing-forward. Strong and "tough" but a little hesitant at times. If only he could have shown more often the splendid all-round form which he displayed against Worksop he would have been really first
rate.
fA. M. Kendell, 1947-48. Second-row forward. A well-built forward who needs a bit more "pep". It is doubtful whether he has yet found his best position in the field, but he should be learning a lot in moving from first one position to another. It was surprising how quickly he got across the field sometimes, which leads one to believe he might have done even better at "glue". f P. C. Knowlson, 1948. A hard-working front-row forward who was seldom ever very spectacular, but could always be relied upon. He is well-built and should learn to pack in the second row. tR. B. Pringle, 1948. A very sound full-back provided he is "there" in time. A fearless tackler and is 100 % safe at catching any ball within his reach. His left foot is his strongest, but he has not yet corrected the fault of allowing the ball to turn over between the time it leaves his hands and meets his boot. His A solid, good-packing front-row forward. fJ. A. Whitehead, 1948. greatest handicap was his inability to produce that little extra "fire", which would have brought his weight and strength more effectively into play. In the open he was rather slow, but he never hesitated in falling on the ball. tM. G. Goodburn, 1948. A young three-quarter who with loss of form and confidence moved from centre to the wing. He displayed a very fine "jink" early in the season, but later he always seemed to be mesmerised by the scrum and a few "bloody" noses caused him to lose confidence. There is undoubtedly a lot of good rugger in him and much natural talent, and he will have benefited from the experience of the season and done less harm than remaining with the Colts team, where he would have had too much freedom. He is always fit and keen, and has no cause to despair. * Cap. f Colours.
45
SEASON 1948 49 -
2nd XV.—*D. G. Eccles; *D. Thompson, *G. W. Griffiths (Capt.), *P. J. Dennis, *M. Wye; *R. D. Watson, *G. R. A. March; *C. M. Bainton, *T. Hobson, *C. T. Groves, *C. D. Ryder, *D. J. Wilson, *D. J. Hartley, *M. I. H. Unwin, *N. B. Burgess. Colts XV.—*J. M. Brook; *P. J. Blincoe (Vice-Capt.), D. S. C. Chadwick, J. N. Tomlinson, *J. D. C. Wall (Capt.); D. I. Fletcher, *R. M. Hodgson; K. M. Ratcliff, D. T. Simpson, A. N. C. Smith, J. T. Ankers, P. W. V. Milburn, *A. N. W. Gunning, E. Robinson, F. D. Browne. * Colours. Junior Colts XV.—A. W. Driver; J. B. Weightman, E. W. Stead, R. H. Jackson, D. H. Gudgeon; G. B. Pullan (Vice-Capt.), P. McL. Walshaw; A. C. Barker, H. W. J. Rigg (Capt.), P. J. Rhead, E. G. Dixon, J. S. Megginson, R. Hawkins, J. J. Youll, R. D. Palframan.
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SUMMARY OF RESULTS 1ST
2nd Oct. Sat., 9th Oct. Sat., Wed., 20th Oct. Wed., 27th Oct. Sat., 30th Oct. 6th Nov. Sat., Wed., 10th Nov. Sat., 13th Nov. Sat., 20th Nov. Sat., 27th Nov. Sat., 11th Dec. Wed.,
3rd Nov.
XV
Headingley "A" York R.U.F.C. Durham School Trent College Denstone College Bradford G.S. Worksop College ... Leeds G.S. Giggleswick School Ampleforth College Old Peterites Ripon G.S.
2ND
19 11 27 6 0 9 11 6 14 0 6
F.
A. 21 17 5 8 12 3 3 6 0 6 16
Won
14
3
Home Won Away Lost Away Lost Away Won Home Won Away Lost Home Won Home Won
22 3 0 14 14 5 14 8
0 19 5 6 9 10 6 6
•••
...
Home
••• .• •
••• •••
.• • •••
... ••• •••
"A" XV ...
Lost Lost Won Lost Lost Won Won Drawn Won Lost Lost
Home Home Home Away Home Home Away Away Home Away Home
•••
Result
XV
Wed., 6th Oct. Wed., 13th Oct. Wed., 20th Oct. Sat., 23rd Oct. 6th Nov. Sat., Wed., 10th Nov. Sat., 13th Nov. Sat., 27th Nov.
Rishworth School 1st XV Drax G.S. 1st XV Durham School Giggleswick School Bradford G.S. Worksop College ... Leeds G.S. Ampleforth College
9th Oct. Sat., Sat., 23rd Oct. Sat., 30th Oct. Wed., 10th Nov. Wed., 17th Nov. Sat., 27th Nov.
COLTS XV Boys' Signal Sqdn. ... Giggleswick School ... Ampleforth College ... ... Worksop College ... Durham School Harrogate R.F.C. Colts
2nd Oct. Sat., Wed., 13th Oct. Sat., 16th Oct. Wed., 27th Oct. Wed., 10th Nov.
JUNIOR COLTS XV Away Lost Boys' Signal Sqdn. ... Away Lost ... ... Drax G.S. Home Won Newburgh Priory School ... Home Won Fyling Hall ... ... Home Won Worksop College
46
••• ••• ••• ••• ••• •
••
Home Away Away Home Home Home
11 Won Won 11 Lost 0 8 Won 14 Won Cancelled 6 11 21 11 8
36 14 16
8 5
SENIOR HOUSE MATCHES 1st Round. Grove beat Manor by 33 points to 3. Semi-finals. Temple beat School House by 14 points to nil. Grove beat Rise by 12 points to 3. Final. Temple beat Grove by 16 points to nil. JUNIOR HOUSE MATCHES Is mi-finals. Round. Rise beat Manor by 12 points to 3. Grove beat School House by 24 points to nil. Rise beat Temple by 16 points to 8. i nal. Rise beat Grove by 11 points to 8.
SCHOOL MATCHES SCHOOL v. DURHAM SCHOOL Played at home on Wednesday, 20th October. Result : Won, 27-5. After a rather shaky start when the Durham centre, Halder, scored an opportunist try which Trotter converted, the School showed greater enterprise in the back division and were more effective in the loose than their opponents. Durham, through obtaining possession for an appreciable part of the game from the set scrummages, were unable to make much progress once the ball reached their backs. The School tackled strongly and were always dangerous in their forward rushes. By the interval the School were well on top, leading 13-5, and there was never much doubt about the result afterwards. Tries were scored by Kershaw (2), Walter, Slegg, Baker, Graham, and Parker, who also converted three of them, to bring the final score to 27 points to 5, a successful start to the inter-school season. SCHOOL v. TRENT COLLEGE Played away on Wednesday, 27th October. Result : Lost, 8-6. This match will long be remembered as one in which misfortune followed misfortune. After a 31 hour journey the School were very slow in beginning to play as a team. Trent took advantage of this and launched attack after attack. During one of these the Trent right winger, having beaten his man, was well on the way for a certain try, but Frank, breaking quickly from the scrum, flung himself desperately at him. Both went down and the situation was saved, but at an extremely heavy price with Frank breaking his arm. This accident made the forwards realise the odds which they were up against, and for the first time in the term they started playing as a pack. The School then started attacking, and from a forward rush they were stopped about 10 yards from the Trent line. From a quick heel Jackson set Slegg going, who by dodging and side-stepping scored a try near the corner flag. This bucked our forwards up, and Trent were lucky only to be three down at half-time. Immediately after the interval Kershaw injured his leg and became a passenger on the wing. The play continued at a fast pace, but Trent drew level after a mistake by Eccles (full-back), who was slow 47
in touching down a kick-ahead by the opposing fly-half, who followed up and scored. This try was converted. The School fought back, and after a quick heel the ball passed rapidly along our line till Baker cut inwards and scored near the posts. The kick was sliced and missed. Trent attacked hard and after many attempts their winger, taking the bail very well, scored a try near the corner flag. The full-time whistle went with the School pressing hard, but unable to get over. SCHOOL v. DENSTONE COLLEGE Played at home on Saturday, 30th October. Result : Lost, 0-12. This match was played under very favourable conditions, the weather being fine and the ground dry. Despite being without four regular members of the XV the School played very well and were soon in their opponents' half, where the forwards pressed strongly and the three-quarters put in some devastating tackling, Baker being especially prominent. Pringle, playing his first game for the 1st XV, played very well at full-back, fielding the ball cleanly and kicking a good length. The only score at half-time was three points to Denstone from a penalty goal awarded against a School forward for off-side. The second half saw the Denstone team throwing the ball about well, and after a good passing movement their right wing scored in the corner. This and two more tries scored late in the game were unconverted, the final score being 12-0 to Denstone.
SCHOOL v. BRADFORD GRAMMAR SCHOOL Played at home on Saturday, 6th November. Result : Won, 9-3. 111 This match marked a turning point in the 1st XV's career this year. All through the first half the School attacked hard, and despite the fact that the Bradford scrum was heavier, repeatedly gained possession from the loose and set scrums, the latter being due to some good hooking by Hobson, deputising for Walter, who was injured. The School eventually scored with a good try by Goodburn on the right wing after the ball had passed along the three line. Parker also kicked a penalty goal. In the second half Bradford attacked hard, but by good tackling they were held successfully until one of their forwards dribbled the ball over the line for a try. The School retaliated immediately and carried the game to the Bradford "25", and the lead was further increased with another penalty goal from Parker. Throughout the whole game it was obvious that the School forwards were more active, and the backs faster and more constructive.
48
SCHOOL v. WORKSOP COLLEGE Played away on Wednesday, 10th November. Result : Won, 11 3. On a very fast ground and under good rugger conditions the School XV played one of its best matches of the season to beat Worksop 11 points to three. -
The game started with a pressing attack by the School, but after five minutes' play the Worksop backs obtained possession of the ball from a loose scrum and made the man over for their right-winger, Holliday, to score an unconverted try in the corner. Soon, however, the School three-quarters began to show their superiority over their opponents by clever passing and forceful running. Kershaw, on the left wing, ran hard to score an unconverted try, handing-off two men in fine style. A few minutes later Parker, the School captain, picking the ball up a few yards from the line, forced his way over to make the score 6-3. In the second half the School was driven back on its own try line, and it was only through the excellent marking of the three-quarters and a really wholehearted effort by the forwards that Worksop failed to score. Soon the pack dribbled the ball to within five yards of the Worksop line. The School, now realising the great advantage they had obtained, heeled at every opportunity, and it was from one of these that the ball was passed to the fly-half, Slegg, who, seeing his man out of position, quickly swerved past him and brilliantly outwitted two opposing forwards to score near the posts. This, indeed, was one of the highlights of the match and the convertion by Parker made the result certain. No-side followed five minutes later. A great day for the School. SCHOOL v. LEEDS GRAMMAR SCHOOL Played away on Saturday, 13th November Result : Draw, 6-6. This game, fortunately for the School, turned out to be the only mud bath of the season. It was evident from the start that the main prop of the defence and attack would be the forwards. For the first five minutes the School pressed hard, and but for a bad pass from a forward we would certainly have had a try. The ball was continually being mishandled by both sides, and from one of these dropped passes Graham forged his way through mud and players until challenged by the full-back; here, with an unmarked man on his left, he passed to his right, where Kendell immediately disappeared amongst a mass of Leeds players. Graham made up for his mistake when, on receiving the ball in one of the few three-quarter movements, he kicked ahead into a space, and by a quick follow-up he scored a try. The try was not converted. The School continued to press hard, but time after time they were driven back. On one of Leeds' few ventures into our "25" their mammoth second-row forward broke from a line-out and
49
scored a try near the corner. A few minutes later Leeds were awarded a penalty for a scrum infringement in front of our posts, which was converted. They were leading by 6 points to 3 at half-time. Soon after the re-start the School, after a very good forward movement, was awarded a 5 yards scrum. The second row held the ball and pushed the Leeds forwards back, they then collapsed on the hall and a try was awarded. Once again, owing to the heavy ball, the conversion was missed. Both sets of forwards were now visibly tiring, and the game gradually petered out into kick-and-rush methods. In the last few minutes Leeds attacked hard, but Pringle, the full-back, backed up by Slegg and Baker, prevented them from scoring. SCHOOL v. GIGGLESWICK SCHOOL Played at home on Saturday, 20th November. Result : Won, 14-0. On a fine day, with a fresh breeze blowing, the School kicked off into the wind, having lost the toss. Immediately Giggleswick were forced on to the defensive, and the School forwards were pressing hard. The School backs handled the ball extremely well, and played a fast, open game, receiving a good service from the set and loose scrums. The visitors tackled keenly and repulsed a long series of attacks engineered by Jackson, whose service was amazingly good. Giggleswick broke away a little later on the left wing, and a fine run was stopped just short of the line by a flying tackle by Graham. Bowden, the Giggleswick centre, repeatedly tried to break through, but was well marked by Baker and Slegg, and met with little success. Just before half-time, Goodburn broke away, and after dribbling, picked up and scored. Parker failed to convert. At half-time the School led by 3 points to nil. During the second half, Bowden, who previously had had no success, kicked several long touches, and forced the School back on several occasions. Suddenly Kershaw broke away on the left wing, handed-off four opponents beautifully and scored a try which Parker converted. Later Parker kicked a good penalty goal, and, after a forward rush, Townshend scored a good try. SCHOOL v. AMPLEFORTH COLLEGE Played away on Saturday, 27th November Result : Lost, 0-6. The match with Ampleforth College, the last of the 1st XV's school matches, was played in a dense fog which made difficult the task alike of player and spectator. The conditions were very wet, a fact which more than anything else, perhaps, contributed to the School's defeat. The opposition backs indulged in a great deal of kicking, both for touch and in the hope that Pringle would fumble, but his fielding of the slippery ball and his touch-finding were impeccable. Once Slegg broke away on the blind side and a score must have resulted if Goodburn had only gathered his pass. Twice Baker failed with kicks 50
awarded against the School for scrummage offences, then, just on half-time, Parker nearly converted a free-kick, the ball passing just outside the upright. Throughout the first half the School forwards were far more lively than the heavier Ampleforth pack, and although beaten in the tight, often heeled from the loose, whilst the backs' handling of the greasy ball was one of the features of the game.
After the re-start the School were penned in their own "25" for
a considerable time; Knowlson, Varley and Slegg were conspicuous, falling on the ball to halt the rushes of the Ampleforth forwards, who often broke through in the line-outs, whilst Baker foiled many of the
opposition movements with magnificent tackles. Just when the School appeared to be going into the attack themselves, a long kick by Campbell, the Ampleforth fly-half, slipped through Pringle's hands, and before he could recover the School were three points down; soon after, from the best three-quarter movement of the day, Ampleforth were left with a man over and scored near the corner-flag. SCHOOL v. OLD PETERITES In this match, played on Saturday, 1 1 th December, when the School was defeated 6-16, the following played for the Old Peterite XV :K. Lockwood; C. Shepherd, P. R. G. Graham, P. Penniston, A. G.
Reynolds; W. J. Clark, I. S. Macpherson; P. S. Atkinson, A. Hobson, J. E. Stuart, P. V. Leigh, D. W. Knowlson, P. A. Shardlow, E. A. K. Denison, J. Penty.
HOCKEY FIXTURES, EASTER TERM, 1949 1ST
Wed,, 2nd Feb. Sat., 5th Feb. Wed. 9th Feb. Sat., 19th Feb. Sat., 26th Feb. Wed., 2nd Mar. Sat., 5th Mar. Wed., 9th Mar. Sat., 12th Mar.
XI
R.A.F. Linton ... Scarborough H.C. Styx H.C. York H.C. Phoenix H.C. Bootham School ... Ashville College ... Worksop College ... ... Trent College
Home Home Home Home Away Away Away Home Away
2rtn XI Wed., 2nd Mar. Sat., 5th Mar. Wed., 9th Mar.
Bootham School ... Ashville College ... Worksop College ...
51
Home Away Home
THE JUNIOR SCHOOL
After the long summer holiday (some boys think it is too long and others that it is not long enough !) and at the beginning of a new School year, we generally seem to take a little time to settle in and get used to the various rearrangements. And we had to get the fiftythree new boys settled in, too ! There were 186 boys in the Junior School for this term. Then there was the new form room for J.I, conjured by the Headmaster out of the air-raid shelter near St. Olave's lawn. With its new windows and electrical heating it has made a most useful and compact little form room. In fact we have almost beaten a sword into a ploughshare—as one really bright person remarked. We welcomed Mr. P. Penniston to the Junior School staff. As an Old Boy of St. Peter's he already knew something about St. Olave's, but we make bold to say he knows a good deal more at the end of his first term with us ! However, we have got on very happily together, and we are grateful for what Mr. Penniston has taught us in the form room and on the rugger field. On Friday, 22nd October, the whole of the Junior School listened to a very enjoyable Musical Recital given by Miss Guelda Waller in Big Hall. Miss Waller gave a very varied programme of musical items in costume, the concluding item being "Cryes of Old London", which was loudly applauded. The service in School Chapel on Sunday mornings especially for boys of the Junior School (and their parents) has been continued, and we feel sure is greatly appreciated by all who attend. We very much enjoyed two whole holidays this term. Monday, 1st November, was All Saints' Day and also about the time of half-term, so that a very pleasant break was enjoyed by all. The second whole holiday was given by the Headmaster to celebrate the birth of a son to the Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, and we all made the best of a very pleasant day. A telegram of loyal congratulations was sent on behalf of the School, and in due course an acknowledgment was received. During the term interest has been shown in the nature study specimens brought in from time to time, not the least being varieties of edible fungi which Mr. Ping tells us he has enjoyed for breakfast. He seems to live to tell the tale, and some very few of us have been converted sufficiently to sample some of the nicer looking ones—and we also live to tell the tale ! We confess there is something in what Mr. Ping says, sometimes ! Other interesting things we have examined are :—a green woodpecker, a magpie, a mole, an enormous brown rat, and several mice. It was decided to hold our annual Gym. Display in the very last week of term after our exams were over, and we think it proved a very suitable time to have it. Two days were again occupied, Wednesday and Thursday, 8th and 9th December, and the details of the programmes are given below. 52
We congratulate all the boys who were selected to recite, especially those new boys who had gained confidence to speak up so well. The exercises were performed with the usual energy, encouraged by Sgt.-Major Power, and we ought to mention the hard work put in by the "arena party"—boys from J.Vn, who arranged the apparatus on both days. The last week also included the Boarders' House Party, which Mr. and Mrs. Blunt and Mr. and Mrs. Calder organised so successfully; the end-of-term Scout Meeting arranged by Mr. Chilman and Mr. Nix; and the remarkable and hilarious Cub Party, when Mr. Cooper seemed to have gathered together more food than even the Cubs could eat. A report of something fresh or new is becoming quite a feature in our accounts about the Junior School ! and the "Festival of Carols" arranged for and by the Junior School on Sunday afternoon, 12th December, was really something very new and original. We know it was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated by the very large number of parents who were present. We should also say that the boys all felt they were doing something to convey the spirit of a Christmas Carol Service. Full details will be found in the special report elsewhere in The Peterite, but we may say here that the hope has been freely expressed that the beautiful and picturesque service will be continued in the future. On Monday, 13th December, after a short service in Chapel, our final assembly was held, when we broke up for the Christmas holiday in good style with the usual roof-raising cheers. SALVETE R. Baxter. L. T. Beaumont. H. B. Burnett. G. P. Burden. P. B. Clayton. J. M. Forster.
BOARDERS (ALBANY HOUSE) F. D. Jordan. M. T. Powell. M. A. Kearsley. D. Robinson. P. W. Howat. M. Ruddock. J. F. Middleton. R. F. Scales. R. W. Peacock. W. J. B. Strike.
N. W. M. Carr. P. A. Crossley. M. D. Fisk.
BOARDERS (ST. OLAVE'S) D. K. Hodd. R. M. Wheeler. D. C. Jackson. T. Watson. J. K. B. Megginson.
P. J. M. Baines. L. J. Bell. I. 0. Barry. R. N. Bradford. R. H. Brown. C. J. Carolin. P. D. Coate. T. Chilman. P. J. Dronfield. A. H. C. Gray.
P. G. Hamilton. B. A. Heap. J. K. Hick. D. R. Holt. W. House. R. M. Kirkus. D. A. A. Lamb. D. G. Macpherson. J. F. Miers. D. D. Nicolson.
DAY BOYS
VALETE J. G. R. Romary (Day Boy).
53
C. J. Partridge. D. E. Rayner. C. Sawdon. C. J. Scaife. B. R. Stockton. A. 0. Sutcliffe. J. A. Whitmore. M. Willstrop. F. G. Woolgrove.
P.T. DISPLAY WEDNESDAY, 8TH DECEMBER.
PROGRAMMES
1. Exercises Form Ji 2. Exercises Forms jilt and 3. Recitations by J. K. Hick, L. T. Beaumont, C. J. Partridge, M. Veal, I. 0. Barry, J. M. Forster, C. R. Clough, A. Staines, T. Beaumont and T. Watson (together), with eight selected boys from J.vA 4. Exercises Form J.ivs 5. Basket Ball Match 6. Exercises
Teams from J.ivA and J.ivs Form J.vA
THURSDAY, 9TH DECEMBER.
1. Exercises
Form J.ii Form J.ivA 3. Recitations by P. J. Baines, P. Bellwood, F. F. Watson, P. Crossley, C. J. Quickfall, G. P. Burden, R. M. Kirkus, A. Staines, and eight selected boys from J.vA 4. Exercises Form J.va 5. Basket Ball Match Teams from J.vA and J.vit 6. Exercises Form J.vi 2.
Exercises
GAMES
i
The Junior School, now numbering 186 boys, was organised in six games on each half-holiday—J.ivB form and above playing rugg e and J.iiiA and below playing soccer. In spite of our numerical strength, owing to the fact that everyone was under 13 at the beginning of the School year, we were on the small side and lacked speed, in comparison with our opponents.
The results of the matches were as follows :12th Oct. v. Newburgh Priory School under 13, home—Won, 17-11 12th Oct. v. Newburgh Priory School under 12, home—Draw, 6-6 19th Oct. v. Ampleforth College Juniors, away—Lost, 0-15 2nd Nov. v. Drax Grammar School Juniors away—Draw, 3-3 9th Nov. v. Newburgh Priory School under 13 away—Lost, 6-20: 9th Nov. v. Newburgh Priory School under 12 away—Lost, 3-9' 16th Nov. v. Ampleforth College Juniors home—Lost 0-15 23r Nov. v. Drax Grammar School Juniors home—Lost, 6-9.
The following represented the School in 1st XV matches :— Sparham, Welsh, Ridley, Maxwell (Capt.), Oliver, Macpherson, Bough, Porteous, Burdass, Hanham, Gardner, Bolton, Macdonald, Scorgie, Johnson, R. N. Also played :—Clayton, Kirkus, Blease, Dodsworth, and Atkinson. 54
WOLF CUB REPORT We have, as usual, had an uproariously successful term in spite of the lack of a really good meeting place. As soon as the weather drove us indoors, we took up winter quarters in a form room. In the course of the term three Cubs gained their first stars and five their second stars, whilst nineteen badges were won. By the end of term there were six leaping wolf badges, which is most satisfactory. Many of our senior Cubs, however, will soon be going up to the Scouts, and it will not be easy to keep up this high standard. Two of our four football matches with other Packs were rained off, but we beat Clifton (2-1) and St. Chad's (2-0). On 27th November we had a very good party with the usual feast and the usual complicated treasure hunt, both of which were much enjoyed. We were pleased that the Assistant District Commissioner for Cubs was able to visit the party.
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55
EDITORIAL NOTICES The Peterite is the magazine of St. Peter's School, York, and is
conducted by the boys.
The Editors solicit literary contributions and general correspondence from past and present Peterites. No notice can be taken of anonymous correspondence. Contributors may, if they prefer it, send their name in a separate envelope, which will not be opened unless the contribution is accepted. Where the contributor's name is not intended for publication his "nom-de-plume" should be enclosed as well. The subscription to The Peterite is 3s. Od. per annum, payable in advance, i.e., before the issue of the first number of the year ( January). Members of the O.P. Club receive The Peterite gratuitously. The Peterite is published three times a year, at the beginning; of each
term.
If anv members of the O.P. Club should not receive their numbers of The Peterite, the Editors would be obliged if notice could be sent at once to The Bursar, St. Peter's School, York. The Editors of The Peterite will be glad to supply any past numbers which they may have to those desiring them, at the price of 6d. per copy. Applications for advertising space to be made to The Bursar, St. Peter's School, York.
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