No. 38. DECEMBER, 1921. VOL. XI.

FIAT LUX.

Contents

Notices   Northbourne Park Camp, 1921
Headmaster's notes   Valete
Editorial   Merit List
Gleams and Flashes   Ye Chronicles
Old Boys' Notes   Correspondence
The "At Home"   The God in Grey
Parents' Association   Edinburgh
The Dramatic Club   An Evening Song
Swimming Notes   The Manufacture of a Modern Motor Cycle Engine
Chess Club Notes   The Letters of L'ah Pi
Inter-County School Sports   The Coming Storm
Cricket   An Island of Dreams
Football   Junior School Notes
House Notes   Junior School Sports
Results of House Matches   A Carol
House Positions to 30th Nov   Signs of the Coming of Christmas
Sports Account on 1st Dec., 1921   Overland from the Mediterranean
1st Cadet Coy. C.P. (F.) R.E.    

NOTICES.

The next number of The Pharos will appear about 2gth March. Contributions must be submitted to the Editor not later than 1st March.

We acknowledge with thanks Ruym (Ramsgate County School), The Harveian, Mayfield Magazine (Gravesend County School for Girls), Beckenham County School for Girls' Magazine and L.O.S Boys' Magazine (London Orphan School, Watford)

Copies of the current issue of The Pharos or of back numbers which are in stock may be obtained from the Editor, price 9d.

The Editor would be glad to have the names and addresses of Old Pharosians and others who would like to receive copies. The Pharos is now issued free to all members of the Old Boys' Association.

HEADMASTER'S NOTES.

Spring Term, 1922.The Spring Term will begin on Thursday, 12th January, and end on Wednesday, 5th April, 1922. Boys are particularly requested to have their railway season tickets made out to cover both dates.

 

Parents' Association.The Parents' Association has now been formed, and I look forward with great confidence to the Committee's future usefulness in the interests of the School. Already the meetings which have been held have given an opportunity of receiving the views of parents on difficult matters, and have enabled those whose life has been spent in education to voice their opinions. To see the other point of view is going to contribute very largely to the harmony of the Parents' Association and to the common welfare of the School.

 

Prize Giving.The Prize Giving was to be resumed again this term after a lapse of seven years, and the Town Hall was booked provisionally for the 16th December. The usual Staff meeting to settle the prizes was held, and the usual keenness in awarding the coveted Mayor's Prize was shown. A varied programme of music is being arranged for by Mr. Taylor, and all exciting Shakespearean scene by Mr. Watt. We had almost secured the promise of a visit from the President of the Board of Education, Mr. H. A. L. Fisher, when at the; last moment he was obliged to disappoint us on account of his work in connection with the League of Nations meetings at Paris and Geneva. Mr. A. J. Balfour being absent at the Washington Conference, the greater responsibility for English interests in the League of Nations falls upon Mr. Fisher, who, we must not forget, is also Minister for Education. In the circumstances we are obliged to postpone the festive event to the 27th January. The prizes will be presented by Earl Winterton, M.P. for the Horsham Division of Sussex, whose close family connection with Lord George Hamilton, of Deal Castle, gives him a special interest in East Kent affairs. Additional and interesting prizes are to be awarded this year by the Parents' Association, who propose to give three prizes for the highest total of marks gained on the Merit Cards, a Geography Prize, an Art Prize and a Junior School Good Fellowship Prize, corresponding to the Mayor's Good Fellowship Prize in the Senior School. The Staff also are giving a prize for the boy who has rendered best services in the extra-School activities, and there is to be the Head Master's Prize for Science. For the first time in the history of the School, two Clatworthy Memorial Prizes for Latin will be awarded, and two Tunnell Memorial History Prizes.

 

Future Careers.Parents will be glad to know that a Secondary Schools Head Masters' Employment Committee has been formed in connection with the Ministry of Labour, the aim of which is to assist boys from Grammar Schools and Secondary Schools to find suitable employment. Forms for the purpose are now kept at School, and every effort will be made on behalf of our boys. Needless to say, there is a great wave of trade depression at the moment, and there is great difficulty in finding openings, and in the circumstances it is best in every way for boys to remain at School at present. For the Customs and Excise service the number of ex-Service candidates is so great that I doubt if examinations will be resumed earlier than 1923, and some time must elapse before the Marconi Company will have vacancies for wireless operators. That Company has recently reduced its staff owing to the small number of operators required in the Mercantile Marine, and no improvement will take place until there is a recovery in the shipping trade. There are, however, openings abroad; the South Australian Government is asking for boys between 17 and I8, who are willing to become farm apprentices for periods of 1 to 3 years. This Australian emigration scheme is of great importance and of much promise as a means of introducing boy settlers of the right type.

The next selection for Kitchener Scholarships under the Kitchener Memorial Fund will be made in January next. We have already two or three Kitchener scholars. Boys, past and present, may be glad to know that the candidates are selected from the sons of officers or men of H.M. Forces, who have reached the age of 16 on the 1st January, 1922. Amounts of not more than £175 per annum plus tuition fees are awarded to enable the successful candidates to follow a course of study or the training for a commercial or industrial career.

The School Governors will very shortly be having the Financial Estimates for 1922-23 under consideration, and it will be of great assistance if the senior boys and their parents could come to some understanding as to the career to be chosen. We continue, as usual, to provide an excellent course of study for the Teaching Profession. We are developing the Science side with a view to engineering and the London Engineering Degree. Ought we also to develop the top of the School with a view to the new London Degree in Commerce? The business man is, of course, one of the most important members of the community, and why should not a syllabus of the London Intermediate Commerce Degree give scope for the formation of character and the cultivation of taste?

Further in connection with the Financial Estimates, there will be about thirty vacancies in the School for fee-paying pupils in September next. All names of intending applicants should be sent in to me as soon as possible, so that the necessary arrangements can be made with regard to accommodation and staffing to meet the School's needs.

EDITORIAL.

We are nearing the end of a long and busy term, and notes on many School activities, both old and new, appear in this issue, though there is little that calls for editorial comment. At the time of writing, many of the boys of the top forms are undergoing the ordeal of the Oxford and Cambridge Joint Board Examination, and we hope our first list from this examining body will be a creditable one.

The Parents' Association appears already to be a flourishing organisation. Its successful start should encourage our Old Boys to give loyal support to their Association, which, though it has achieved a measure of success and has useful activities in several directions, should have a much larger roll of membership. We appeal to all Old Boys, whether resident in Dover or not, to keep in touch with the School by means of the Association, and to all present boys to make up their minds to become members as soon as they are eligible.

Your Editor is glad to announce that the time which he once had to spend begging for contributions to the Magazine can now be spent in the less arduous task of discriminating between the large numbers of articles received. All suitable matter will be inserted, as far as our space permits, and to the many disappointed authors we can only offer our regretful apologies and the sound old advice to "try again." In conclusionA Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers:

GLEAMS AND FLASHES.

A. W. Twyman passed the London Inter. Arts Exam. last June, with First Class Honours in English. This was a specially noteworthy success, as Twyman was the only candidate on the list placed in the First Class.

—:—

Young (1st Class), F. J. M. Pryer, Quinlan, Scarlett and Booth were successful at London Matric., and Denton, Rigden and Ross passed the Oxford Local Senior Exam. Lovely, C. M. Donald, Bennett and Scotchmer obtained K.E.C. Junior Exhibitions.

—:—

Congratulations to all the above-named, as well as to Mr. Pearce on his Honours in Physics at London University. The news of Mr. Pearce's success came as no surprise to any who have had opportunity of knowing something of his intense keenness and interest in matters pertaining to his special subject.

—:—

On 28th November Mr. and Mrs. McReady presented in the School Hall delightful scenes from Shakespearean plays. Their acting, recitations and humorous anecdotes were highly appreciated.

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Those who remember Miss Reid will be interested to know that, after a year's teaching in Canada, she is now at the Tollington High School in North London. Miss Reid's Canadian experiences lead her to express a distinct preference for the tone of English schools as compared with those of our great American Colony.

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The School Benevolent Fund has now been re-organised with a view to giving it a definite place in our Schooll life. By means of weekly collections we hope to raise £50 during the year, and of this amount £16 17s. 0d. has already been collected this term.

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We have been glad to welcome to School this term D. P. Sparham, F. E. Hore and F. G. Atkins, to whom special exhibitions have been awarded by the K.E.C.

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The Magazine Committee for the current School year consists of the Editor and Miss Rookwood, with L. R. Phillips (sub-Editor), C. H. Scarlett, C. H. Gormley and E. W. Fuller. Send them in your contributions in good time for our next number.

OLD BOYS' NOTES.

The term which has passed since the last appearance of these notes has been quite an eventful one for the Association. Pride of place must, I think, be given to the win of the Present over the Past in the annual cricket match on the 27th July; I think I am right in saying that it is the first for at least ten years. Bravo, Present!

The dinner, which was held on the evening of the match, although not very largely attended, was a very pleasant gathering. The most noteworthy of our visitors on this occasion was Galilee, who happened most fortunately to be in England on leave. He entertained us by relating his impressions of Canadian school life, and there was also a very enjoyable musical programme. Unfortunately, the dinner resulted in a financial loss of £1 19s. 5d.

In order to give the winter season an auspicious start and to recoup ourselves for the loss on the dinner, a concert (credibly stated to have been a very good one) was given by the Association (with the kind assistance of some friends) on the 17th September.

This, I am pleased to be able to record, was a success in every way, and after wiping off the loss on the dinner a balance of about £3 remained, which was shared with the Old Girls' Association.

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On the 5th November the first dance of the season was held. Though rather sparsely attended, this was a very pleasant function, on which the sub-committee which was responsible for the arrangements is to be congratulated.

—:—

I would remind members that subscriptions fell due on the 1st October, and those who have not paid should make a point of seeing the Treasurer at the earliest opportunity. We should all like to see the membership at least 100 by next general meeting.

—:—

This year's Reunion is being held in the Town Hall, and it is hoped that this will dispose of the chief drawback to last year's functionthe fact that the room was rather over-full. A joint committee of the Association and the Old Girls' Association has been at work on the arrangements for some time. The date and time are Wednesday, 28th December, from 7 p.m. to midnight, and tickets are, as last year, 3/6 single and 7/- double. They may be obtained from the Hon. Secretaries, Miss P. M. Toms (2, Priory Grove) and Mr. V. C. Spain (White Horse Inn) or from any member of the joint committee. The committee hope that all Old Boys and Old Girls will support them in their efforts to make the evening a thorough success, and it will be much appreciated if all who propose to attend will obtain their tickets by 23rd December if possible.

A. J. LAMIDEY.

—:—

Since the above notes were written the Committee has been seriously depleted by the resignation of R. C. Wilson and C. C. Armstrong, and of A. J. Lamidey, the Secretary. We particularly regret the loss of Lamidey's services, as he has for some time past carried on his duties with much energy and ability, and has been in many ways the life and soul of the Association. V. C. Spain is our new Secretary, and we have no doubt he will prove a worthy and efficient successor to this important post.

The three resigning members mentioned above have all left the town, and as their removals have, we understand, in all cases been in the nature of promotions, we offer them our congratulations, and hope we shall see them at frequent intervals.

R. C. Wilson has gone to the Head Office, in London, of the National Provincial Bank, C. C. Armstrong to Hertford, and A. J. Lamidey to the Inspector of Taxes' Office at Hastings.

W. T. J. Atkins and W. S. Lovely have obtained the B.Sc. (Eng.) Degree at London University. Congratulations!

W. S. Lovely has obtained a teaching post at Loughborough College.

We are pleased to hear that J. Toms will be returning to Dover in January.

W.H.D.

THE "AT HOME."

On Wednesday, 12th October, Mr. and Mrs. Whitehouse were "At Home" to the Mayor (Alderman C. J. Sellens, J.P.), the Mayoress, the School Governors and Boys' Parents.

The School premises were thrown open for inspection and the Staff assumed the role of guide and conducted parties from art room to kitchen, from form room to laboratory, till the geography of the School was mastered.

Tea was served in the Hall by a committee of mothers, assisted by the wives of the Masters, while a small orchestra, under the direction of Mrs. Clout, gave delightful selections.

Following this a business meeting was held, Mr. Whitehouse assured his guests how pleased he and Mrs, Whitehouse were to see them there, and proceeded to deal with several matters of importance. The raising of the School fees was first discussed, and it was soon seen that, the total cost per boy being over £30, each boy is practically a scholarship holder.

The matter of the Deal boys' attendance led to the realisation of the fact that we in Dover are indebted to Deal for assisting to pay the County Higher Education Rate. The question of a special train for the Deal boys and girls was raised, and the Head reported that he had approached the Railway Company yet again on that subject, but they were still unable to increase or improve facilities.

The ever-present difficulties of playing fields and accommodation were then brought forward. Mr. Whitehouse explained the position of our own fieldCow Pasturewith reference to the War Office authorities, and expressed a hope that by next winter the ground would be suitable for football. He regretted the fact that the junior boys were in a separate building and that there was no playground at their disposal, but hoped that the K.E.C. would see their way clear to procuring land for the erection of new buildings before long.

On the proposal of various parents present it was decided to elect a provisional committee of fathers, representative of the several districts served by the School, and to entrust them with the initial formation of a Parents' Association, membership being open to parents of all boys past and present and to all members of the Staff and their wives.

Mr. Alderman Chitty proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Whitehouse for their hospitality, adding that he knew from years of experience how deep and genuine was the interest Mr. Whitehouse took in education and in all that made for the welfare of the children. This was seconded and carried unanimously.

PARENTS' ASSOCIATION.

The Parents' Association held its inaugural meeting at the School, on Tuesday, 22nd November. There were present about 150 parents, as well as members of the Teaching Staff. The report of the Provisional Committee of the Association was read by Mr. H. N. Tomlin. The following gentlemen were elected to the Executive Committee:For DoverMr. H. N. Tomlin, Mr. C. S. Harris, Mr. G. H. Roberts, Capt. G. R. Rowe, and one member of the School Staff. For DealMr. N. V. L. Griffin and Mr. S. E. Parker. For WalmerThe Committee to co-opt. a member. For outlying districtsMr. H. G. Stanway, St. Margarets at Cliffe; Mr. E. T. Wetton, Kearsney; Capt. A. E. Ryeland, Shepherdswell. The Headmaster was elected as an ex-officio member. Mr. H. N. Tomlin was elected Chairman and Capt. G. R. Howe Honorary Secretary and Treasurer of the Executive Committee. The suggested rules were adopted practically in their entirety.

The Parents' Association has for its object to interest itself in the general welfare of the School as a whole, including facilities for outdoor games, periodical social functions and the provision of prizes. The enthusiasm of the parents who attended the meeting showed how keen was their interest in this Association, which has for its main object the strengthening of the ties uniting parents with the School. It will be necessary to the success of the Association, which is already assured, to have a large membership, and it is earnestly hoped that parents of boys attending the School, and parents of Old Boys, who have not yet signified their intention of becoming members, will do so in the near future. This is a movement which needs the hearty co-operation of all parents interested in the Dover County School for Boys. A resolution was moved by Mr. Whitehouse, and seconded by Mr. Langley, according the Provisional Committee a vote of thanks for their services in organising the Association. This was carried unanimously. The proceedings terminated with the Nationa1 Anthem.

THE DRAMATIC CLUB.

The Dramatic Club is now one of the regular activities of the School.

Springing from an instinct strong in youth, it may do work at once pleasing and useful, giving scope to this instinct and presenting works from the purely dramatic point of view.

With the Senior Group "Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme" is at present being studied and already Mons. Jourdain and his circle are very living personalities. With the definite view of a performance, the Pyramus and Thisbe scenes from "A Midsummer Night's Dream" are being rehearsed at the Friday meeting.

Although the primary idea of the club is not that of giving performances, still that branch of the work will not be neglected.

In view of this, as it is always very difficult to find suitable plays, we should be very grateful for any suggestions.

SWIMMING NOTES.

Early in the term a meeting was held for all interested in the formation of a Swimming Club in the School. The offices of captain, vice-captain and secretary were filled by Denton, Gormley and Lamidey respectively.

Later in the term a polo ball was purchased, and games were arranged every fortnight at the Baths, the Dover Swimming Club having kindly allowed us to use their goal-posts and nets.

Life saving classes are being held for all boys wishing to enter for the bronze medallion awarded by the Royal Life Saving Society.

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RESULTS OF POLO MATCHES.

Denton's team, 1 (Mr. Constable); Lamidey's team, 1 (Woodham) Denton's team, 0; Lamidey's team, 0.

Strugnell's team, 3 (Mr. Constable 2, Barton 1); Lamidey's team, 1 (Lamidey).

Lamidey's team, 1 (Day); Strugnell's team, 0.

CHESS CLUB NOTES.

A Chess Club has been formed in the School this term, and has proved very successful. The members meet each Tuesday after school when a very enjoyable time is spent at the game.

W.E.B.

INTER-COUNTY SCHOOL SPORTS.

The Inter-County School Sports will be held at Beckenham on Saturday, 25th March, 1922. For next year's meeting certain innovations have been introduced to make the programme more attractive to the junior members of the schools. The Senior Events (for boys under 19) are: 100 yards, one mile, ¼-mile, high jump, long jump, relay and tug-of-war; the Junior Events (for boys under I5): 100 yards, ¼-mile, high jump, long jump and relay. It is now within the scope of every boy to win points for his School.

Training will bee begun immediately after the resumption of School in January. Probable competitors are asked to try their paces during the vacation. Eliminating contests in the various events will be held in January, when the representatives of the School will be chosen.

CRICKET.

DOVER COUNTY SCHOOL V. OLD Boys.

Played at Crabble on July 27th.

The Present, who were greatly strengthened by the inclusion of three masters, batted consistently well. Mr. Slater and Horrex were responsible for a partnership of 50 for the third wicket. The first two wickets of the Past fell through smart fielding, C. B. Wilson throwing down his brother's wicket very neatly. The right bowlers were now found in Mr. Winn and Horrex, and wickets fell very quickly, the whole side being out for 62. The Present thus won by 74 runs.
 

PRESENT.

Mr. Winn, C Hichens, b Took     13
H. Tomlin, run out   14
A. Horrex, c Worster, b Bourner   31
Mr. Slater, c Worster, b Bourner   36
C. B. Wilson, c Lawes, b Bourner   8
Mr. Baxter, b Bourner   16
D. Wood, not out   7
H. Denton, run out   0
R. A. Pelham did not bat    
C. Lamidey did not bat    
C. Scarlett did not bat    
Extras   11
Total (for 7 wkts.)*   136

Innings declared closed. *
 

OLD BOYS.

Wilson, run out     9
Virgo, run out   5
Lawes, b Horrex   9
Took, ht. wkt., b Horrex   10
Bourner, c Pelham, b Mr. Winn   10
Lovely, c and b Mr. Winn   4
Hichens, b Horrex   0
Worster, c Denton. b Mr. Winn   2
Russell, c and b Mr. Winn   0
Ayling, b Mr. Slater   0
Watts, not out   0
Extras   3
Total   62


BOWLING.

OLD Boys.Bourner, 4 for 46; Took, 1 for 35.
D.C.S.Mr. Winn, 4 for 6; Horrex, 3 for 7; Mr. Slater, 1 for 0.

FOOTBALL.

(View picture)

DOVER COUNTY SCHOOL v; DUKE OF YORK'S STUDENTS.

Played at Guston, 1st October, 1921. (Drawn, 2-2).

This proved a very evenly contested match. Despite fast play throughout the whole of the first half, it was not until ten minutes before the interval that the Students scored as the result of a piece of clever short passing. Twenty-five minutes after the recommencement of play Wood scored the equalising goal, but the home team again took the lead from a well placed corner kick. With only ten minutes to play, Hicks made a fine clearance to Denton, from whose splendid long pass Wood again scored.

In this match both Rigden and Wood justified their promotion to the team.

In the first half the halves seemed unable to settle down, but this was remedied later.

SCHOOL TEAM:Pelham; Pay, Hicks; Musson, Motley, Twyman; Denton, Harley, Cole, Rigden, Wood.

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DOVER COUNTY SCHOOL V. HARVEY GRAMMAR SCHOOL.

 

Played at Folkestone, 5th October, 1921. (Lost, 2-5).

The speed of this game was proved by the fact that the home team scored after ten minutes' play and again a quarter of an hour later. Our halves appeared totally unable to hold the opposing forwards, with the result that yet a third goal was scored against us in the first half.

Motley opened the scoring for us after three minutes' play in the second half and we scored again a little later. Had the perfect centering of Strugnell been properly followed up, the defeat would certainly not have been so heavy.

SCHOOL TEAM:Pelham; Pay, Hicks; Gormley, Motley, Twyman; Strugnell, Harley, Cole, Rigden, Denton.

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DOVER COUNTY SCHOOL v. DUKE OF YORK'S STUDENTS.

 

Played at Guston, 5th November, 1921. (Won, 2-1).

In this match we had to face a strong wind in the first half and the first goal of the game was scored against us after ten minutes, but beyond this our defence prevailed, and the score remained 1-0 until the interval.

After a quarter of an hour's play in the second half Cole brought the score level and Twyman gave us the lead from a well placed corner kick by Denton.

Harley and Hicks deserve special praise, the former for his splendid centring and the latter for a royal defence.

SCHOOL TEAM:Pelham; Pay, Hicks; Twyman, Motley, Gormley; Denton, Harley, Cole, Ridgen, Wood.

W. H. PAY, Capt.

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1st C.C.C.P. (F.) R.E. v. REST OF SCHOOL.

 

Played at Elms Vale, 12th November, 1921. A totally unexpected yet thoroughly well earned victory was gained by the Cadets in this match. The School forwards sent in several splendid shots, which, however, were well dealt with by Pelham.

A well placed shot by Wren gave the lead to the Corps half way through the second half. They failed to increase this lead, but remained victors by one goal to nil.

TEAMS.Cadet CorpsPelham; Pay i., Kirton; Tomlin, Scarlett, Pay ii.; Lonsdale, Wren, Wood, Glogg, Robey.

Rest of School.Fox; Landrock, Hicks; Trigg, Twyman, Harley; Denton, Cole, Motley, Strugnell, Rigden.

HOUSE NOTES.
Town House.

This term has seen the relinquishment of the House Captaincy by C. B. Wilson. The loss of his leadership will he felt by the House in all ways, more especially in cricket, where his splendid performances were so valuable. We wish him all success in his career.

The keen spirit of the House is very gratifying, but, as without steady work it will unhappily do little, it is to be desired that all members should practise as much as possible. Although we lost both subsequent games, the good results of our half term exertions were obvious.

School swimming activities being much increased and opportunities of learning and improvement being so great, more Light Blues should take advantage of this. Those who dislike the cold need have no fear, it is warmer in the water than out of it!

The weakness in the 1st XI. defence has, one hopes, been greatly remedied. Grilli is to be complimented on his performance in goal against the Country House and Barton for his work as left half. Wellard needs less hesitation, Lonsdale to be somewhat faster, and Bushell to use his speed more on the right wing. The whole forward line need shooting practice.

The 2nd XI. has presented a far harder problem than the 1st, on account of the number of players of average ability and the consequent difficulty of choosing a team. Those omitted from the team must not therefore be discouraged and give up trying. Some need to be reminded that House games come before Form games.

With some effort, we have hopes of improving our unenviable position in regard to points, and in our 1st XI. defeat of the Dark Blues we have made the first step in our upward climb, but for some time yet our motto must be "Practice, practice, practice, and again practice."

LRP.

RLS.

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Country House.

The term's football has been quite satisfactory, and the House has done well once more, although the honours must be shared with the Reds. Despite the loss of some of last year's team a good 1st XI. was put into the field on each occasion, whilst the 2nd XI. has maintained its usual high standard. There will no doubt be vacancies at the beginning of the New Year, and the younger members of the House must therefore practise hard so that our standard of football may be kept up.

In the first game the Dark Blues put up a good fight, thus keeping up a tradition which they seem to have established, namely, "To give the Greens a good run for their money" (or points). They tried hard but the result was not long in doubt. The 2nd XI. won "hands down," the team being far too good for their opponents.

Against the Light Blues the 1st team won by 4-2, although Strugnell often occasioned fears by his clever work. The scores were level for a long while, until our inside forwards seemed to have a burst of inspiration, which resulted in a two goals' lead. The 2nd XI. finished in rain and darkness, but they managed to find the ball sufficiently well to get seven goals.

The Reds lowered our colours by 2 goals to 1 in a really fine, clean game. Matters were level until about 15 minutes from the end, when a continuous series of rushes by their forwards resulted in Motley putting them one up by a really good shot. Both sides went "all out," and the ball travelled from one end of the field to the other, but nothing else happened.

A valuable acquisition to the team was found in Thacker, who played and centred well in all three games. He and Bent formed a good left wing, from which many goals resulted.

H.H.T.

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Maxton House.

Our every effort this season has been attended with success, even our 2nd XI. winning both its matches.

The Light Blues were our first opponents, against whom our 1st XI. were victorious by six goals to three. This score would seem to indicate an easy game, which, however, was far from being the case, for the determined attacks of the Blues caused many anxious moments to our defence. Such was not the case in the 2nd XI. match, when our juniors won an easy victory by five goals to three.

Against the Dark Blues, our next opponents, we gained an overwhelming victory, winning by eleven goals to three in the 1st XI. match, but their 2nd XI. proved a tougher proposition, and it was only after a well fought match that we won by two goals to one. Trott and Greenstreet scored for us, the goal of the former deserving special mention.

Last season our 1st XI. managed to draw with the "Invincibles," but we have crowned our efforts for this term by breaking a record of two seasons' duration, by beating them. The task was no easy one, and it was with great difficulty, it must be admitted, that we kept them out in the first half. McConnell as a goalie is quite a find, and played a splendid game. One good shot passed him through no fault of his, but as the result of a misunderstanding. At half time we were one down, but the team responded splendidly and to single out anyone member would be difficult. The shots by Wood and Motley which secured for us the lead were splendid.

Throughout the term both 1st and 2nd XI's have played enthusiastically and well, with most gratifying results.

W. H. PAY.

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Buckland House.

With the first half of the House matches played we find ourselves at the bottom of the table. Our position is due, not to lack of good material, but to bad combination and worse shooting. Our first match of the season, against the Country House, was the best of the three, and if the team had maintained the same standard we would have been nearer to the top than we are at present. In the game with Maxton our only aim was to kick the ball. I admit that this is really the purpose for which the ball is supplied, but nevertheless it is as well to look where we are kicking and endeavour to pass it to one of our own side or to find the net. Our display against the Town House was worth more than two goals, and here our poor shooting ability lost us two points. The 2nd XI. did not have much chance against the Country House. But, in their match with Maxton, their inability to shoot let them down.

The backs should always cover the goal, for our custodian, good as he is, is yet only human. The halves would do well to mark their men more closely, while the forwards are slow in getting on the move.

These notes chiefly consist of what we have not done, therefore play well next term and let me record some performances worthy of Dark Blues.

E. H. GORMLEY.

RESULTS OF HOUSE MATCHES.
1ST XI.

Oct. 19th.Maxton, 7; Town, 3.
Oct 19th.Country, 6; Buckland, 4.
Nov. 9th.Maxton, 11; Buckland, 3.
Nov 9th.Country, 4; Town, 2.
Nov 23rd.Maxton, 2; Country, 1.
Nov 23rd.Town, 3; Buckland, 2.

2ND XI.

Oct. 19th.Maxton, 5; Town, 3.
Oct 19th.Country, 13; Buckland, 1.
Nov. 9th.Country, 10; Town, 1.
Nov 16th.Maxton, 2; Buckland, 1.

Nov 30th.Country, 8; Maxton, 0.

Nov 30th.Buckland, 5; Town, 0.

HOUSE POSITIONS TO 30th NOVEMBER.

  P. W. L. Pts.
Country 6 5 1 10
Maxton 6 5 1 10
Town 6 1 5 2
Buckland 6 1 5 2

W.H.P.

SPORTS ACCOUNT ON 1St DECEMBER, 1921.

RECEIPTS.     EXPENDITURE.
    £ s. d.       £ s. d.
July 5 Cash in hand and at Bank 51 12 4   July 6 Tea to Duke of York's 1 3 1
Sept. 29 Fees per Miss C. 22 4 6   July 7 Roberts 0 2 3
Oct. 30 Fees per Miss C 15 3 0   July 8 Cricketers' Arms, for Tea 0 7 6
Nov. 17

O.B.A. per W.H.D.

(Pharos for 2 terms)

3 15 0   July 26 Swimming Sports 0 7 0
Nov. 12

Sundry Sales of Pharos,

less expenses, per W.H.D.

0 3 5   July 26 Pharos, Summer number 17 11 6
  Interest 0 10 10   July 27 0ld Boys' Match, Tea. 1 6 6
              Yeomanson 0 5 0
              Cricketers' Arms, Tea, etc. 0 12 6
            July 30 Abbot-3 reblades, etc. 2 14 11
            Sept. 20 Lester 0 8 6
            Sept. 30 Roberts. 0 13 6
            Sept.30 Lester 0 1 0
            Oct. 5 Fares to Folkestone 0 15 0
            Oct. 12 Chess Club 0 6 10
            Oct. 21 Martin Walters, Chessmen, etc. 1 11 6
            Oct. 21 Barwick 11 3 0
            Oct. 26 Expenses of 2 delegates to Chatham. 1 15 0
            Nov. 11 Roberts 0 1 6
            Nov. 17 Polo Ball 1 4 0
            Nov. 19 Postage (Secretary's a/c) 0 2 8
            Dec. 1 Cash in hand 1 0 1
              Cash at Bank 49 16 3
    £93 9 1       £93 9 1
Audited and found correct,   W. WILTON BAXTER,

W. H. DARBY.

 

Hon. Treas.

1ST CADET COY. C.P. (F.) R.E.

The autumn term not usually being one of Cadet activity, few parades have been held. There have been one general field day and a few drills, whilst the dark evenings have been utilised for lamp signalling. In the spring and summer term there will be more opportunity for Cadet work and it is up to all loyal Cadets to help the Company by recruiting in the New Year. The report received for last year's work is appended. The fifty Cadets who did such good work on behalf of a School of over 350 boys are to be congratulated.

Promotions:Sergeant: Gambrill; Corporals: Gunn and Pay i.; Lce.-Corporals: Grinsted and Robey.

 


INSPECTING OFFICER'S REPORT.


From

The Staff Officer for Cadets,

To

The Officer Commanding,

1st Cadet Coy., C.P. (F.), RE.
Memorandum.

I beg to forward herewith Inspection Officer's report (A.F.E. 673) for the Cadet Corps under your command. The County Commandant wishes me to convey his congratulations to your command on the excellent result, which he considers very creditable.

H. COOK,       

Captain.


Army Form E. 672.
1st Cadet Coy. C.P. (F.) R.E.

The unit was put through the following exercises in my presence, and I append my remarks:

Company and Squad Drill.The Cadets showed a good knowledge, are smart in appearance and movement. N.C.O.'s have good words of command.

Physical Drill.A very satisfactory standard, well executed.

Signalling.A good knowledge of the Morse Code was displayed, simple messages readily read by flag, considerable zeal has evidently been shown by Officers in making this subject one of interest to the Cadets, who were seen receiving signals (Eiffel Tower) on a home made receiving set.

Map Reading.A fair standard of knowledge was shown.

(Signed) J. W. S. SEWEL, Colonel,

 C.R.E., Dover.

6th August, 1921.


—:—


BALANCE SHEET.

RECEIPTS.

   

EXPENDITURE.

  £ s. d.     £ s. d.
Balance brought forward 16 11 8   Uniforms 1 14 0
Sports Fund 2 0 0   Postage 0 6 5
Uniforms 0 15 0   Ammunition 0 6 0
          Wood, Screws, etc. 0 10 6
          Map 0 1 9
          Travelling Expenses 0 3 0
          Photographs 0 1 4
          Cells and Solder 0 4 10
          Camp deficit 0 6 9½
          Lamp and Oil 0 2 0
          Wireless World 0 0 10
          Stationery 0 3 6
          Cash in hand 15 5 8½
  £19 6 8     £19 6 8
Audited and found correct,    

W. W. BAXTER.

 

W. E. PEARCE.

3rd December, 1921.


NORTHBOURNE PARK CAMP, 1921.

"A wet shirt and a flowing sea,

A wind that follows fast."

 

This sums up very briefly the conditions under which the advance guard spent its first night under canvas. We had come out earlier in the day with every prospect of a fine holiday, but during the night a north-easterly gale sprang up and upset our calculations. The continuous patter of the rain on the tents was only relieved by the groans of the discomfited within and the clash of tent-peg and mallet as they met in a desperate endeavour to hold the canvas in position; a clash often re-echoing with appropriate remarks from the C.Q.M.S. as rebellious portions of the pegs parted company.

As was the case last year, the weather during the first week proved very inclement, but by no means spoiled the enjoyment, for the ceaseless screech of a piccolo in No. tent, the occasional blare of a bugle, and heated debates in Cpl. ——'s tent, often ending in tests of physical strength, on the relative merits of Sinn Fein and Bolshevism, all contributed towards breaking the monotony of compulsory C.B.

Next day the weather continued squally, and the main body did not arrive till late in the afternoon. The following night proved as relentless as the first in its efforts to dislodge the tents, but, thanks to the work of the advance party, only two tents and a marquee succumbed. The inmates of these unfortunate tents were distributed among the more fortunate ones for the time beinga procedure which No. —— tent did not appreciate, for in the early hours of the morning the S.M., paying his respects to the weather with "a nice derangement of epitaphs," applied for admission to the above tent, for he had been in the marquee, owing to the inadequate accommodation afforded by a bell tent, and despite refusals, the shying of boots, etc., made his abode there for the night.

After this, however, the camp settled down to the serious work of preparing for the inspection which was to be conducted by a representative of the War Office at the end of the first week.

At ten o'clock each morning the Company, after parading for a few minutes' squad drill, split up into parties in order to carryon with the various phases of R.E. work which make the Corps' work so interesting.

Buzzers and field telephones, under the charge of Cpls. Pay and Glogg, were fitted up, whilst semaphore and morse flag-wagging were conducted by the same N.C.O.'s. A welcome addition to the apparatus of this squad was a very powerful night-signalling lamp which the Corps had only recently acquired, and by means of which messages were transmitted to the camp at night from a distance of two or three miles.

Sgt. Gambrill looked after the wireless apparatus, the aerial of which was stretched between a couple of high trees. Lord Northbourne's grandson frequently paid visits to the camp in order to acquaint himself with the mysteries of that magic soap-box with its coils and switches.

The map-reading work under Sgts. Ryeland and Pelham proved especially interesting, since sufficient time and scope necessary for successful operations are only afforded during camp.

The estimation of heights and distances and drawing up of maps of the neighbourhood turned out to be very instructive from a geographical point of view, as did also the expeditions with the prismatic compass.

On inspection day everyone was astir early; kits were immaculately piled in position, every button and badge shone as never before. At the appointed time Colonel J. W. Sewel arrived and took up his position at the saluting base, whereupon the Company marched past in line.

The Corps was then split up into its four sections, which, under the control of the Sergeants, executed squad drill. For a few minutes Capt. Willis conducted Company drill, after which the Corps doffed caps, tunics and belts and went through a number of physical exercises under the direction of Sgt. Pelham.

The Colonel then inspected the signalling and mapping squads at work. He expressed complete satisfaction at what was being done, and congratulated the Corps on the possession of such an excellent wireless receiving outfit. It was fortunate in this respect that Colonel Sewel arrived in time to listen to the Paris time signal.

The camp was the next object for criticism, but here too he expressed delight not only at the site chosen but also at the arrangement of the tents, which were pitched in two parallel rows about thirty yards apart running N.W. and S.E. on ground sloping to the south-east.

In a few departing words the Inspecting Officer declared his entire approval of everything that was being done to maintain a high standard of efficiency in every department of the Corps' work, and urged all the cadets to remain loyal to an organisation which was worthy of the greatest respect and support.

The inspection being over, a programme of cricket matches and sports was drawn up. Scratch games were always in progress, but half-company matches were by no means infrequent, whilst on one occasion a match was played with the local club, whose pitch in the field adjacent to our own we were permitted to use during our fortnight's stay. The match, we are sorry to relate, proved rather disastrous to ourselves, for we only managed to compile the dismal score of 28, Cpl. Pay being top scorer with 8. Our hopes brightened up, however, when Northbourne went in to bat, for a man was clean bowled first ball. With only one run added another wicket fell. Cpl. Pay then dismissed a troublesome "stone-waller," and excitement ran high; but here our hopes died away, for our rivals' score steadily mounted, passing our meagre total with only four wickets down. A splendid innings of 53 not out by Wanstall put the issue beyond doubt.

The shooting competitions were another feature of the second week. Every morning batches of cadets were to be seen on the improvised range, firing for the inter-section cup or contesting for the coveted title of "Company shot." The keenness with which the contests were fought out augurs well for the standard of marksmanship the Corps will achieve when the Northampton Street range will be at our disposal.

The results of the competitions are as follows:-

  25 yds. 50 yds. Total.
Section 2 (Greens) 114 114 228
Section 4 (Light Blues) 67 105 172
Section 3 (Dark Blues) 69 95 164
Section 1 (Reds) 40 112 152
Best Shot in Company:
Cpl. Gunn 47 29 76
Cdt. Smith 40 31 71

With regard to the last-named competition we heartily congratulate Cpl. Gunn on his fine performance.

Sports day produced an interesting combat between the various sections. A large flat meadow within a minute's walk of the camp provided the "track," which was measured and marked off in true R.E. fashion in the morning. It was hoped that a number of parents and friends would arrive from Dover and Deal as last year, but the lowering sky, which about tea-time turned to rain, doubtless accounted for the small number of visitors. Nevertheless, the weather did not detract from the interest of the events.

A special tea with lavish (?) supplies of cake was followed by an impromptu concert in the marquee. Humorous monologues, solos, quartet's and choruses all contributed towards a most enjoyable evening, whilst the "orchestra," although consisting only of a piccolo and a mandolin, rose to the occasion, as did also the marvellous interpreter of "John Peel," when he climbed on to the "platform" to give a pathetic rendering of that time-honoured song.

Two more days saw us back in Dover again, thoroughly satisfied with our holiday and a good deal browner than on the 30th of July. We returned via Deal, but the rear guard had a rough time, for within six hours of the main body's departure a torrential deluge swept the camp and two vivid flashes of lightning struck the earth on the very spot previously occupied by the guard tent.

We wish here to tender our sincere thanks to Mr. Barwick for his kindness in placing his lorry at our disposal at such short notice, and also to the Officers, who, with the well-being of the Corps at heart, have so generously devoted their time and energies to maintaining the Corps at the status to which Colonel Sewel's report, printed elsewhere, bears adequate testimony.

The only pity is that the senior boys do not set the example of School patriotism which is reasonably expected of them. Even Form VI. Arts can only boast of three cadets in a total of eleven boys.

We trust that these remarks on the Corps' activities will stimulate a desire among the lower-school boys at least to be loyal to their School organisation. Remember that your final School report contains a space for the part you have played in your Cadet Corps. Do not let that space be vacant!

R.A.P.

VALETE.

C. B. WILSON.Prefect; Captain of Town H.; School 1st XI. C. (colours); Town H. 1st XI., F. and C.
W. E. BUSBRIDGE.Secretary Chess Club.
G. B. BENT.Country H. 1st XI., F.
B. J. LAKDROCK.Buckland H. 1st XI., F. and C.
K. F. DRYDEN.Cadet.
D. P. WOOD.School 1st XI., F. and c.; Maxton H. 1st XI., F. and C.
R. A. B. BUSHELL.Town H. 1st XI., F.
J. E. LASLETT.

E. C. HALL.
D. P. KIELY.

MERIT LIST.

Form Va.Haynes (3), Dixon (3), Motley, Lewis, Jones, Fuller.
Form IVa.Gray (3), Newing, Ott, Dearling.
Form IVb.Harrow, Dellbridge i.
Form IIIa.Garland (3), Green (3), Leader, McConnel.
Form IIlb.Terdrey (3), Collins (3), Hadlow (2), Smith. E. (2), Sanders, Belsey, Taylor, Smith, E.
Form IIIc.Phillips, K. E.
Form IIa.Jarrett (3), Donald i. (3), Fry (2), Trott (2), Shenton.
Form IIb.Turner (2), Sparham, Trist, Archer, Harman.
Form Ia.Horn.
Trans.Nurse (2), Scotchmer.
Lower Prep.Dane.

YE CHRONICLES.

Yea, forsooth, it came to passe thatte Wytman ye Scrybe and Blymppe, ye squire, like unto Hamlep and Le Rihil of olde, didde sally forthe from ye strongholde to instruct ye serfs to withstand King Xam. Nevertheless they didde not uttrely forsake theyre comrades but ayded them, by verbal instructioun, in theyre laboures. But to our grief and dolour, Bar-wil, thatte doughtye champioun who full ofte had wrecked his foe's hopes on ye fielde of greene, departed also, for aye. Thus were there lefte but II Philps and Umlaut ye Scrybeall that remayned of a once numerous and puissant compagnie. Thus doth the most mightye enemy Careare wreak great slaughter among all strongholdes. Theyre places were takenne by newe squyires, and newe knyghtes fulfilled theyre devoirs. And this hath happcd from generatioun to generatioun.

Yette it didde my hearte goode to knowe that one of ye turbulent factioun, albeit a knyghte, came to see the errour of his wayes and forsook chyldish lyvinge and soughte weapons to vanquish Xam where they may beste be found. For Wisdome maye beste be captured and Studye pursued and ensnared by stealthe, but clamoure frighteneth them awaye.

Now the tyme has come when these squyires under ye knyghte l'Ymorge, togethere with a hoste of unruly underlyngs and vassals, have ended the burnisshyng of theyre armes and have encountred Xam's henchman, yclept Joyntbored, a newe and untried foe. Hys vanguarde, Orallefrenshe, will have been uttrely smytten and Joyntbored, so sayth the overlorde, wille be surprysed and overcome. Yet lette those who are overcome and takenne prisonnere have goode cheere, for they maye free themselves from thralldome by diligent laboure and applicatioun. These be the counsells to ye new-tried squyires of

" UMLAUT YE SCRYBE."

CORRESPONDENCE.

To the Editor of" The Pharos."

SIR,

I hope that you will not consider these suggestions impertinent, because they are certainly not intended to be so, for I am stating what I think will improve your already excellent magazine. I think that if you put in some jokes, puns, etc., it would be more interesting to the junior boys. Similarly with the "Form-room Flashes," which used to be in The Pharos.

I hope that the football notes which we had last year will continue, and it would be an improvement, I think, if there were an article about each of the forms, written by one of the boys belonging to the form. The result would be interesting.

It would, in my opinion, be a good thing if points were given to the House whose members contributed the greatest number of articles for The Pharos. If this were done it would enable the boys with little inclination for sport, but with considerable literary abilities, to assist their House to forge ahead of its rivals.

I do not think there are any other improvements to suggest, so, hoping that this article will receive your own personal attention,

I remain,

Yours faithfully,

H. J. GRAY.

 

[We shall be glad at any time to receive contributions on the lines of any of the above suggestions.ED.]

THE GOD IN GREY.

Evening, heavy with fog, pressed down upon the city, and still I waited in the dreary room, in the dreary, desolate street, where Joy had never been and Hope would never come. The fog swirled against the window-panes, and the last embers of the fire burnt out to bitter grey ashes upon the lonely hearth.

Then my spirit grew heavy with sleep and presently I dreamed a dream.

An old man sat in a great room, where lamps were bright and the fire was merry. He was trying to believe that he was happy, warming himself at the fire, until suddenly there crept into the room a gaunt grey figure, with dust upon his cowl and tattered robe, and he beckoned the man away.

"Let me stay," cried the man, "let me stay but an hour. Let me order my epitaph to be graven upon marble in the great aisle of the church, lest my name be forgotten among men."

Not a word said the Grey One, but took him by the hand to lead him away, whereat he wept and trembled in great fear. Then, out of compassion for the man, I stretched forth my arm and plucked the grey robe as they passed me by.

And lo! the grey robe fell away and he who had worn it stood revealed, white and fair as a young god, radiant as the dawn upon Olympian snows.

"Why, what is this?" cried I.. "Are you not Death?"

"Men call me Death," said the Shining One, "but I am Immortality. I go always shrouded thus, lest men should be too eager for my coming or indeed should seek me." Then as I rose and stretched out my hand to take his, he gathered the grey cloak about him and the two were gone.

And I awoke in the dreary room, in the dreary desolate street, where Joy had never been but Hope had come at last.

JOHN HAMPDEN.

EDINBURGH.

    The ancient Scottish capital of Edinburgh, standing upon a hilly site in the county of Midlothian, and stretching almost down to the shore of the Firth of Forth, is one of the world's most magnificent cities. Of its many fine buildings, the most important is perhaps the castle, which is situated on a mount high above the city. It was founded by Edwin of Northumbria in the early half of the seventh century, and from his name the city was called "Edwin's burgh." Within its walls is St. Margaret's Chapel, probably the oldest building in Edinburgh, a relic of Norman architecture. In the fortress itself are the ancient Scottish regalia and the apartments of Mary Queen of Scots, in which James VI. was born.
    As we pass down the main street from the castle, the next building worthy of notice is the Cathedral of St. Giles. It was here that John Knox, the great reformer of Mary's reign, preached the Protestant religion to the Queen's Catholic subjects during her stay in France, and here he now lies buried. The two great rivals, Montrose and Argyll, were hanged outside the Cathedral and their remains were afterwards interred within its walls. This building contains the "Thistle Chapel," a beautifully decorated chapel, in which the Scottish Knights of the Order of the Thistle meet on certain occasions, the last meeting being held quite recently by the few who still remain. Near to St. Giles' is the old Parliament House, now the home of the Supreme Court of Scotland.
    Leaving the Cathedral behind and passing down into the heart of the city, we now catch sight of the great dome of the University, standing almost on the spot where the luckless Darnley, Mary's husband, was murdered by Bothwell in a small house at Kirk o' the Field, in 1567. Next appears the quaint old house in which John Knox lived, and then, straight ahead, the royal residence of Holyrood Palace may be seen. Built by David I. in 1128, its ruined Abbey contains the remains of many of the Scottish Royal family, while within its walls, Queen Mary married Lord Darnley and Charles I. was crowned. Mary resided at the Palace on several occasions, her apartments still containing her bed and other relics, while here also she saw her husband Darnley murder her Italian favourite Rizzio on 9th March, 1566.
    Although most of old Edinburgh is included with the buildings mentioned above, yet the new city must not be overlooked. Princes Street, one of the famous streets of Europe, certainly deserves mention. It possesses great width and length, only one side of it being occupied by hotels and shops, the other being a large park, in the middle of which is Scott's Monument, which commands a magnificent view of the city. The two great railway stations are situated at either end of it, and between them is the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
    Opposite the University there is the Museum, a building of which any city might be proud. It is visited a great deal by students from the University.
    Other places of interest in the neighbourhood of Edinburgh are the Forth Bridge, about nine miles from Princes Street, and the residence of Robert Louis Stevenson, situated under a range of hills about two miles from the city.

W. BUSBRIDGE.

AN EVENING SONG.

The purple hills are touched with gold,

The evening hour is drawing nigh,
And yet, by yonder cloud, behold
A lark is soaring in the sky!

Why is he there at this late hour?

The twilight creeps the vale along,

The tired bee now leaves the flower,

The thrush hath closed his evening song.

I heard him o'er a field of corn
Herald the breaking of the day,

And now, on fluttering pinions borne
He sings his little roundelay.

Hark! how the little minstrel sings

Among the purple clouds of even,

And up he springs, with quivering wings.

As if his spirit were in heaven.

S. SHARPE.

THE MANUFACTURE OF A MODERN MOTOR CYCLE ENGINE.

What part of a motor cycle interests the average boy most? Without a doubt, the engine. All boys are possessed of a more or less mechanical turn of mind and the following notes dealing with the production of a famous motor cycle engine will probably be of interest to present day County School boys, as well as to the Old Boys who read The Pharos.

The writer has, since June, 1920, been associated with Messrs. Burney and Blackburne, Limited, the makers of the Blackburne engines. Their works are situated in a charming country spot at Bookham, Surrey. Here the complete engines are manufactured, with the exception of the castings, which are obtained from other firms who specialize in this class of work.

At present there is a range of models varying from 2¾ to 10 horse power, suitable for practically every type of motor cycle and cycle car. By careful design these have been so arranged that certain parts can be used on several different enginesfor example the 85 m/m. piston will fit either the 4, 8 or 10 horse power modelthis instead of having three separate pistons, one for each engine. Again as another instance, one type of valve suffices for the whole range previously mentioned.

During the early part of the present year, the writer assisted in the design of a special racing engine, of which an illustration is given here. Although normally 2¾ horse power, it will develop approx1mately 12 brake horse power at 4,000 revolutions per minute, owing to the good design and first class workmanship. This engine has been very successful during the past season of track racing at Brooklands.

Regarding workmanship it will come as a surprise to most people to know the extreme accuracy with which most of the parts of Blackburne engines are made. The crankshaft bearing may be quoted as an examplethis part must be within one thousandth part of an inch of the size given on the drawingobviously a specialist's work.

As the various component parts are completed they are inspected and passed into the stores, from whence they go to the erecting shop for assembly. This operation is most carefully supervised to ensure each engine being satisfactory in every respect, and after another inspection comes a bench test, during which a certain power must be developed before the engine is passed and finally cleaned up ready for despatch to the motor cycle makers.

H.T.H.

THE LETTERS OF L'AH PI.

O, WANG CHOW,

Disappointment. Utter, bitter, burning disappointment. L'Ah Pi is ended.

No words can describe my feelings. They would only be comprehensible if you could see the Cesenic. If L'Ah Pi is finished they are lost, irrecoverably, without hope. Gentle, kindly attempts to draw forth the intelligence they have, and in their obstinacy hold back and destroy because it never sees the light of day, have failed, miserably. As rats leave the rotten hulk as it sinks below the waves, so have two, the only two in whom the fires of elementary culture gained before division from their erstwhile companions still evidently smouldered, fled inevitable engulfment.

O Charity, Thou livest yet! Eager hands, shrinking not to grasp their miry forms, lifted them to that Other Form where friendship attended and made them fit once more for man's regard. One has maintained the honour of his new abode; but the bands of evil companionship hang heavily upon the other and have dragged him down from time to time. This wavering soul dares visit our establishment but twice in seven days for abject fear lest these chains should draw him without escape down with that fast sinking crew. He spends the remainder of his time instructing others!

Dull iron may strike fire from common flint, but the tempered steel of genius may not with the deftest stroke bring light from the dead hearts of the Cesenic.

Thus you will understand my motive when I say that this is the last communication you will receive from me on this subject. My sojourn in this English abode of learning is ended. I have suffered mental pain enough.

L' AH PI.

THE COMING STORM.

There is a tempest gathering in the West;

I know it by the cloud-banks in the sky;

I see the sea-gull circling o'er its nest

And uttering its loud and pensive cry.
I know it, too, as foaming billows roar,

Lashing, with mighty force, the rocky shore.

How many ships are there, which proudly ride

Upon that dreary waste we call the sea,

Whose men, ere morrow, will through portals glide

By Death be sent into Eternity?
From life's hard storms, they seek eternal rest

Beneath the wave, below the billow's crest.

The watchman in his tower now sets his light,

To glimmer forth, a star seen from afar,

To warn the mariner to steer aright

Until in safety he can cross the bar.
Guide him, kind heaven, keep him from alarm,

This weary night, keep safe his soul from harm.

C. A. HARVERSON.

AN ISLAND OF DREAMS.

There's a wonderful isle

In an ocean of gold.
Where tales very strange

Are sometimes told.

A beautiful island

Of glorious sunbeams,

Which is called by the sailors

The Island of Dreams.

Its shores are safeguarded,

No vessel can creep

Into its harbour,

Save one, golden sleep.

'Tis a beautiful barge,

Its sail brightly gleams

As it speeds swiftly on

To the Island of Dreams.

W. F. PINKERTON.

JUNIOR SCHOOL NOTES.

"Story! God bless you! I have none to tell, sir." So wrote a bygone writer, and with him, or the character into whose mouth he puts these words, I have the profoundest sympathy. Nevertheless, one or two facts are worth recording. We seem now to have settled down at the Technical Institute after our wanderings and to be likely to remain there for some years. As an earnest of this we have developed a new class, and, as last year, have two parallel forms at the top, a fact suggesting grave problems of accommodation next July. About a dozen of our number last September moved to "Another Place," whilst four were scattered to the four corners of the earth. (What is wrong with that, Lower Prep?) Bennett is near Cranbrook and attends the Grammar School there; Dodd in Bermuda; Stirling in Australia and Smith in Brighton. We have had letters or cards from all four of them.

The immigrants numbered 41. Some have brains in their heads, some in their feet, and most, at both ends. Evidence of the first-named must be sought in future merit lists, but of the rest, rumour has it, the various II.'s have had ample experience on the football field, where Overs, Dilnot, and Jarvis have distinguished themselves, not only by their physical activity but by their management of the game.

Prize distribution and terminal examinations are already casting their shadows on us, so now then Juniors, "stiffen the sinews, summon up" your brains; "quit you like men, be strong."

G.D.T.

JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTS.

Junior School football has been flourishing this term, and our team has made good progress in the science of the game. Under the captaincy of Overs (Form Ib) they have played several games against scratch teams from the rest of the Junior School, and are showing an amount of combination, speed and pluck highly creditable to themselves and full of promise of valuable recruits to future House and Senior School elevens. One match was played against a Senior School Form team, in which the Juniors were victorious, and another was arranged in which, at least, they were not beaten on account of the weather. During the first half of the term we enjoyed the use of the Crabble Court Ground, and were able to arrange two games each Wednesday afternoon. The loss of this ground has somewhat reduced the number of boys who can "get a game" each week, but we have heard no grumbles, and shall continue to "carry on" in a proper sportsmanlike spirit.

A.H.P.

A CAROL.

To some poor shepherds keeping flocks

Near Bethlehem's sleeping town,

The Angels sang a glorious song,

A song of great renown.


CHORUS:

Glory to God and peace to men,

Oh! sound it out abroad;

A Baby in a manger lies,

Emmanuel, David's Lord.


Peace on the earth, good will to men,

A Babe is born to-day;
La in the east His star is seen,

"Come worship Him" they say.

CHORUS:

Glory to God and peace to men,

Oh! sound it out abroad;

A Baby in a manger lies,

Emmanuel, David's Lord.

 

STEPHEN MUMMERY, Form la.

 



SIGNS OF THE COMING OF CHRISTMAS.

When, everywhere,

The trees are bare,

And clouds look dark in heaven above,

        Christmas is near.
Soon all is white,

At morning light,

Clad in fair robes of drifted snow;
        Christmas is near.
One song above,

Of peace and love;
When songs proclaim a Saviour's birth,

        Christmas is near.

 

C. HARTSHORNE, Form Ia.

 

OVERLAND FROM THE MEDITERRANEAN.

I shall never forget the day we sailed from Malta. We had to get on board the Izonzo at 8 o'clock in the morning, but the boat didn't leave for a few hours after. While we were waiting we were very interested in watching a little Maltese boy who was in the water alongside the ship waiting for coins to be thrown to him. When one was thrown he would dive straight down after it and bring it up in his mouth and then put it in a little belt he wore round his waist. The Maltese boys learn to swim when they are very young. I felt very sorry when the boat started and we were taking our last look at Malta, because we had been there nearly five years and liked it very much. Just after the boat left the harbour we were all very frightened to hear the whistle blowing and to see all the sailors running about, but we soon found out that it was a practice fire alarm. We reached Taranto about 7 o'clock next morning, after a very smooth journey, but we did not get off the boat until the afternoon, because the ambulance motor, which was to take the luggage, did not come to meet us before. When we reached the station at Taranto we found there was no train until midnight, so we had to make ourselves as comfortable as possible on the platform. It took us a week to reach our destination, after a very uncomfortable time in the train. We did not have a wash for a few days, as there was no water in any of the trains.

It was very nice when we were travelling through Italy to see the green fields and the cows grazing, as Malta is a very dry little island, and all the fields are used for growing potatoes and other foodstuffs. We could not buy any food on the way until we reached the border station between Italy and France, and the only way we could make a cup of tea was by going to the engine driver and asking him for some hot water from the boiler: It was very interesting when we were passing through the Alps to see the snow on the tops of the mountains, and the clouds coming below the tops of them. When we reached Le Havre we had to stay there a day and a night while waiting for the boat to take us to Southampton, and so on the last stage of our journey to Wales.

G. BAYLISS (Form lb.).