May 1952

Page 47

a tunnel, and when we reached Caux, the halfway mark, we were nearing the snow-line. The track was lined with snow which became deeper and deeper as we proceeded. The sun was shining brightly and the glare of the snow necessitated the wearing of sun-glasses. At last we reached the Rochers de Naye. Here we found a hotel and a cosy restaurant. Several skiers were practising on the slopes below the hotel. Those who wanted to buy sun-glasses were disappointed to find that they cost seven francs (about 11s. 8d.). Many of us ventured to the observation post, a short distance from the hotel. The ascent was very slippery, but after many slips and slides, most of the party reached the observation post. From this point we had a marvellous view of the mountains around us. Then a mist would blot out our view for a few moments, only to clear away and reveal once more the magnificent snow-capped peaks, glistening in the sunshine. The descent was probably more treacherous than the ascent. Some of the boys used their cases to slide down to the hotel, and others were just compelled to use their backsides. The sun was warm and invigorating. This gave us a large appetite and we ate our packed lunches with zest and washed them down with beer or coca-cola. Soon the train was ready to go, and we jumped aboard. At Caux we left the train in accordance with Mr. Le Tocq's wish to give us some exercise by walking the rest of the way to the hotel. We made our way along the narrow mountain paths, the column sometimes being bombarded with snowballs from the rear section, until we reached the lower slopes. The front section of the party took a wrong turning and went to Glion. The rest of us went on towards Les Avants. The woodland scenery was enchanting; we passed many waterfalls lined with icicles. Mrs. Le Tocq found many colourful and interesting woodland flowers. The whole countryside was very picturesque. At Les Avants we had a rest and some refreshments. Then we proceeded on our way singing merrily. At some places the descent was so steep that we could hardly avoid running, especially those of us who were rather hefty and fat (no names mentioned). About 1 hours after leaving Les Avants we reached our hotel to find that the "Glionites" had arrived back two hours before us. There were a few blisters and a few sore feet, but it had been very worthwhile and we had had a most enjoyable day. R. D. WHEATLEY.

C.C.F. NOTES The term started with what may well be an historic occasion. The Head Master came on to parade to present Ft./Sgt. Weightman with his Flying Badge, the first to be won in this unit. After being 46


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