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No. 108. JULY, 1949. VOL. XXXIX.
FIAT LUX.
The Autumn Term commences on 12th September, and ends on Thursday, 22nd December.
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Speech Day has been arranged for Wednesday, November 23rd, when the address will be given by R. W. Moore, Esq., M.A., Headmaster of Harrow.
—:—
Mr. W. E. Beck is leaving us to take up a similar post in the
Harvey Grammar School, Folkestone, much nearer his home. Although he has only
been with us for a comparatively short time he will be much missed by the
members of the Savings Group which he inaugurated, and especially by certain
members of the staff who will look in vain for the helpful Morris! The best
wishes of all the School go with him.
—:—
The next issue of "The Pharos" will appear about January; 30th; therefore, all contributions should be submitted not later than December 15th.
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Copies of the current issue of "The Pharos," or of back numbers which are in stock, can be obtained from the Editor, price 1/6 each.
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All photographs in this issue are by Lambert Weston, Folkestone.
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We wish to acknowledge the recent issues of the following of our contemporaries: "Manwoodian," "Langtonian," "Bordenian," "Ruym," "Harveian" and the Magazines of the Faversham Grammar School and of the Dover County Grammar School for Girls.
== EDITORIAL. ==
The older one gets the more rapidly the occasion when the assistant editors begin the clamour for this article appears to come round!
We hope that all pupils, past and present, will find within these covers what interests them duly recorded. It would appear from certain minority reports of a recent enquiry that not everything is as satisfactory as would appear on the surface. Amongst the less revolutionary suggestions was a change of editorship; to make this more effective still, the change was to be made annually!
The fact remains that the magazine belongs to you all; it is what you make it. I should not need more than one hand to count the contributors from Forms IV, V and VI! I must, however, congratulate Kemp, of V Remove, who made an excellent attempt at a farcical article which only just missed the required standard. I wish also to I thank the many Juniors who sent in articles; some are merely held over. I would suggest to all that now is the time to write for our next I issue—why not see what you can do?
By the way, you will recall that the article "An Old Boy Remembers," was to be continued. It is well known that one of the earliest signs of approaching senility is an occasional lapse of memory. This Old Boy forgot the date on which we went to press!
There is a saying that old soldiers never die, they merely fade away. Some of the staff appear to belong to this coterie still, although their soldiering days are long past. Mr. Constable, who was supposed to have retired a year ago, is still happily with us—and now Mr. Willis, after thirty years, has decided to follow his example. However, the fading away will hardly be noticed since we shall still hear his mellifluous voice and watch his agile fingers during music lessons for—we hope—a long time to come.
In conclusion, I would like to thank most warmly my assistant editors, Borley, Bradley and Weaver. Borley's mantle has fallen on the shoulders of Bradley, who, I am happy to say, has made my way easy.
A happy summer holiday to all!
W.W.B.
== OPEN EVENING ==
On Friday, March 25th, Open Evening was held for the third time since the war. It has now become an established annual event. Once again, all rooms were open to parents and friends; in the form rooms, form masters were available to talk with parents; while in the rooms of 5th and 6th Forms, careers experts were ready to give valuable advice about boys' careers to parents.
In the Hall, in addition to the playing of the School Orchestra, the Choir sang a varied selection of choruses to the enjoyment of a large audience. On the stage, the street setting for the Juniors' production provided an interesting background, though not exactly suitable for the "Hallelujah Chorus" or for the gondolas of the "Cachucha"! Below the stage the costumes, properties and make-up used in "Saint Joan" were on view.
Many parents in—the course of the evening visited the Physics and Chemistry Laboratories, where many experiments were set up to intrigue fathers. Mothers were, on the whole, inclined to prefer the Art Room, where a colourful exhibition was on view, which included some models of houses in clay and "Pyruma." Directly below, in the Geography Room, an exhibition of local geography, including a scale model of East Kent, had been arranged; also a film show was given several times to packed houses.
The Pharos Exhibition, at the request of many who had not been able either to visit it, or to spend as long as they would have liked, there the previous year, was revived in the Library—it again proved one of the most popular features of the evening. Also in the Library was a table on which many recent acquisitions to the Library were on display. The wide compass of the new books showed that the Library, as well as every other branch of School activity, is keeping abreast of the times. The film-strip on Letter-Writing, recently, made by the School, was shown in the Library, and parents were most interested in how it had been made.
Farther down the School, in the Gymnasium, a P.T. Display was in progress during the earlier part of the evening, for which, unfortunately, there was only limited accommodation. In the Woodwork Shop many examples of boys' craftsmanship were to be seen. Hancock's sailing dinghy was most popular. Many trays and plates worked in copper were especially admired in the Metalwork Shop, in fact, many parents wished they were for sale!
After their long tour of the School, all parents were glad to enter the Dining Hall, where once again Mrs. King's refreshments lived up to their reputation gained on Sports Days and past Open Evenings.
As they left the brightly-lit hall to enter the refreshing coolness of the dark night, many parents must have looked back on their own school days and compared them with the life of the modern schoolboy. I wonder how many parents, if given the chance, would have exchanged their school life for ours, which, admittedly, contains better facilities for education? We should, indeed, be grateful to our parents for providing these opportunities for us.
A.W.E.
Oon drousie nombenesse mye sens payen astho of Ygher I hadde siten, fore agayne ye varlettes—inne vane me thinketh—combatten oon grete evyll, yclepte bye somme—ye Derthe. Ye Somtyme gentil foppes of Sickzartes do burie in lokes crulle in myghte tomes ande eek ye verrey stinkeres of vonne Ciense belchen forthe inne olefactorie moode—et hem keepen ope widen hir eyen fore that ye sire Weppe repairen atte laste ye litel thinges to plesen litel mindes in Ygher Ooni saye eek monie wiren his grones wanne that ye noble Sickzartes smellen ye ffrensshe-papere, comen fro Londres al hoot, butte Sire rextab—of ye ffreukisshe palmes—thenketh ye papere liathe oou pleasante aire.
Sliortely ago, foresoothe, we smelten oon othere smelle, butte ye cielise sayen nave, ande thanne we seen thatte ye grate P.M. hadde hadde ye drawebridge lowyred for ye colupanie of vagabondes and baggage to comen, ande straighte wave hem maken murrie ette given us oon playe, ande thereto ye laughes of ye groundelynges, by nawe ryghte downe to erthe, weren longe ande leude. Ye name of you playe oon witen natte, butte oon me tellen it hyghte "ye sevenne veyles to canturberie."
Nottes on mve ruffe ... on Wodene dayes oon sayc ye Dele traine taken muchel Peyne to weren hir cappes ... oon wondres y? Ye staffe atte laste retouruen hyr bokes inne ye librarie, so nyce to seen ye juniorre shelves so ful for the nones . . . butte oon me thinketh stille to been oon livelie yongestere oon. . . gardenne oon lovvelie thinge is Godde wot ... so wotte! . . . hem wisperin thatte inne shorte ye hedde-of-Harrowe do sojourne hir inne given ye litel brattes hir juste rewardes . . . notiones fore oon newe schole souge, thereto, maste comen natte latere thanne novembre. . .
Butte ye bourdonnes of ye Ygher ande suche do wayen heavie, ande soone we moste needes begone. Som to ye lystes moste soon ande fighten for oure feith inne cooke-houses darke and bleake, whye som, daren me save?—wille once mo returne in combatte withe ye myghtie Ygher and suche. Butte tyme cometh quicke and I moste atte laste lay downe myne penne to seeken for grater thinges, whyl you do seeke ye grater deedes of ye menne-atte-arms in, as tradisionne haf it, ye myghte boke “Pharos.”
SETREL LE BROY,
Ye Scribe.
In an inquiry recently held in Upper IV, the "Pharos" was generally granted to be a fine magazine. Suggestions that the cover could be changed and that "Ye Chronycle" should be dispensed with, were heavily defeated. On the question of whether “Salvete should be dropped, the Form was undecided.
However, nothing in this world is perfect, and therefore we would humbly submit the following reforms:—
It was thought that more articles by Old Boys would be appreciated, and a suggestion that contributions by Masters would improve relations between them and the boys was carried unanimously.
There was a great deal of controversy concerning Form Notes, but eventually it was decided that Form Notes should be contributed by 5th and 6th Forms only. More attractive Society Notes would help recruiting and provide a greater incentive for those already in the societies.
It was generally agreed that holiday dates in advance would be of considerable help to those planning their holidays, and that more space be devoted to good photographs taken by boys of the places which they have visited.
Surprisingly, the Sporting News did not figure greatly in the discussion, but a suggestion that a special mention should be made of unusual incidents which have occurred in School games, was highly commended.
To include these reforms a more frequent issue of the magazine would be necessary, and, if possible, an increase in its size. The cost of the magazine would, of course, be increased, but to offset this, a single sheet of advertisements at the front and the back of the magazine and on the inside of the cover, and a wider circulation if possible, were suggested.
J. E. HALSEY,
Reporter to the Commission.
(Views from any other Form, together with constructive criticism, would be welcomed.—Editor.)
With an industry and an eagerness ill suited to the purpose the Government has been preparing and issuing for our benefit many coloured charts symbolising the results of statistical surveys of current affairs.
These statistics cover every conceivable corner of our life: Births, marriages, deaths, taxes, wages, prices, imports, exports, and so on. Nothing can happen but it is snapped up, reduced to statistics and triumphantly displayed on a chart for our benefit.
From every wall and hoarding these charts proclaim themselves newspapers carry them as sharp warning of approaching economic disaster; multi-coloured booklets of them exhort us to behave in such a manner as to make one little black column bigger than another. Our life is almost governed by these symbols of commerce.
But when it comes to statistics dealing with human beings the dignity of man is insulted. We noble rational beings are reduced to crude silhouettes of little black men.
Little black men standing stiffly to attention; square-headed, wooden, immobile and unthinking; completely subservient to the Civil Servants who designed them. Every week’s national crisis is surrounded with little black men. Little black men warn us urgently of its approach, then grimly explain to us how it is progressing and then they triumphantly show how it was overcome.
In their millions they stand in symmetrical columns. They are governed in quantity and position by numbers, as in crystals, and crystal-like they seek to clarify for us our destiny.
Why do they exist? It may be said that the use of such symbolism provides a clear and efficient method of explaining to the public events of national importance: it is certain that in a democracy each citizen must be aware of the condition of the state, and such awareness is obtainable by the publication of knowledge by authoritative sources. It is with this end in view that the little black men have been mustered. Our glorious democracy can now be said to consist of fully-informed citizens keenly aware of their country’s condition and possible future.
I Such citizens must be intelligent, to appreciate the news lavished upon them. Moreover, the source of the news—the Government—must be accurate, reliable and honest. So the use of the little black men requires such citizens and such a Government.
Belief in fairies is no longer universal and, in fact, scarcely exists; all fairies and their kin are said to be non-existent. So also the will-o’-the-wisp, that sprite who danced before men and led them to their doom, is gone.
But have they really gone? Or have their places been taken by the little black men? For look to what conclusion they have led us, that in England the mob is intelligent and the Government honest.
ANON.
| When daffodils dance in the breeze And blackbirds sing so sweet and clear, When March winds whistle through the trees, We know that Spring is really here. The lambs are skipping on the green And hedges smell of hawthorn sweet, A brood of yellow chicks I’ve seen, And cowslips spring beneath my feet. Oh, Spring! The time of lovely things— The season when all Nature sings. D. J. DOEL, Middle I. |
== SCHOOL SOCIETIES==
1st Cadet Coy., C.P. (F.) Royal Engineers.
During the Easter term a number of Drill and Field-Craft parades have been held. A “Cert. A” squad has been formed, and numbers of Senior Cadets have been given a chance to gain experience in section leading. There has been an improvement in the quality of the drilling, and a small platoon represented the School on Empire Youth Sunday.
Promotions taking effect from Monday, 23rd May, are:—
L./Cpl. Watts to Cpl.
Cadet Freer to L./Cpl.
M.J.B.
Numbers have increased during the term and some Cadets have been successful in the First Class tests.
On May 22nd, a party of Cadets travelled to Aylesford where, together with other Kent squadrons, they attended a drumhead service in the morning and inter-squadron sports in the afternoon.
On Empire Youth Sunday, the squadron, with other youth organisations, took part in a service, which was followed by a parade and march-past.
The annual summer camp will be held this year at Thorney Island, near Portsmouth.
PROMOTIONS:
Sgt. Davison to Flt./Sgt.
Cdt. Brown to Cpl.
Cdt. Davey to Cpl.
Cdt. Plater to Cpl.
J.D., Flt./Sgt.
President: The Headmaster.
Chairman: Mr. Mittins.
Vice-chairmen: Messrs. Murphy, Marriott and Large.
Committee: Rooks, Henry, Davison, Hall, Ryeland and Borley.
With the election of the above officials the Society has endeavoured to capture an air of formality, with the Committee meeting periodically to discuss the Society’s programme.
The need for activities apart from the annual production was felt, though time does not allow of much experiment. Play-reading and lectures were suggested as other activities, and a group of enthusiasts did manage to read Kapek’s “R.U.R,” with the asisstance of the Chairman.
Visits to other productions have been arranged, and parties attended performances of "Arms and the Man" at the Girls’ School and “She Stoops to Conquer,” at the College. Considerable support was forthcoming from the Society’s members in a School party formed to see a performance of “Dr. Faustus,” at the Folkestone Emergency Training College.
The Spring Term was occupied with rehearsals for the Juniors’ "Thirty Minutes in a Street" and the House Plays. As usual, for Open Evening, the stage and the Dramatic Store were open to the parents, the Stage being enhanced by the set of the Juniors’ play, while the Store contained displays of properties, make-up and the costumes for the "St. Joan" production.
It is intended to improve the present Stage wiring considerably, and, with the aid of equipment kindly given to the Society by Mr. Longley, work on this should shortly be under way. An excursion for the Society to visit a current London production has been suggested, but as plans for this are, as yet, only in the proposal stage, no further information can be given.
As the play for the next annual production will shortly be chosen, potential actors and stage staff should watch the notice column for further details.
L.B. (Hon. Secretary).
It was a great pleasure to me to be present at the performance of the play, “Thirty Minutes in a Street,” given by the Junior Dramatic Society, and, before I mention the play itself and the players, I want to congratulate the Producer, P. A. Hall, and his staff of helpers. The stage management was in the hands of A. H. Ryeland, who is not only interested in acting himself, but in teaching others to face the footlights. The scenery was effective and well designed, the costumes and make-up very good and the stage hands, electricians and prompter saw to it that every detail was correct.
The play was well chosen for it gave ample scope to a large number of actors, some of them very new to the game. There was, however, no trace of nervousness and the lines were clearly spoken. One or two boys hurried their speeches—a novice’s fault and one that will soon be overcome. The exits and entrances, which were many, were well timed, and, as the scenery was built forward, full use was made of the apron stage.
With so many promising young actors, it is both difficult and undesirable to make any great distinction, but mention must be made of the Old Lady, the amusing charwoman, the Elderly Gentleman, the Curate and the chic Frenchwoman, who really lived their parts. There is considerable talent in the Junior Dramatic Society, and these young boys should be very grateful to the Seniors who are willing to give their time to training them. I hope they will be ready to do as much in their turn when, before very long, they are promoted to Barrie, Shaw and Shakespeare.
Good luck to you junior actors. Carry on—and please invite me to your next play!
O.M.R.
The text-abiding student of Chaucer would very soon have got lost in following "The Pardoner’s Tale" as presented by the Compass Players to a very responsive audience. It is a considerable tribute to the Company that they could enlarge upon the theme of "radix omnium malorum est cupiditas" to give a ninety-minute production, but I fear the few opportunities presented in this commonplace plot were sadly overburdened.
The real force of the play’s climax, when the three revellers have paid the price of greed, was lost, because, in the eyes of the audience the climax of events was apparently in the innuendo-laden Low Inn scene. This scene provided such a colourful contrast to the drabness of the climax that it took the "edge" off the moral. The dancing sequence might have appealed to some sections of the audience, but was it really necessary? Did the plot gain in intensity through its inclusion? I rather think not. Unfortunately, if the Low Inn and the Street scenes had been left to our imaginations there would have been no play.
It was possible to bear these insertions in the text, however, because they afforded us ample opportunity to see an object lesson in dramatic art. The audience probably did not care twopence whether greed was the root of all evil; they were there merely to be entertained—and entertained they were! From the moment the curtain rose the players pitt everything they had into their performance; flimsiness of plot was soon forgotten in the enveloping action, and the adventures of the three revellers proceeded unimpeded till they served the purpose in their untimely end. Full marks, incidentally, to the Company for their excellent representation of Death.
So yet another visit from a nomadic repertory company came to an end. Whether it was time well spent depends upon the individual, but for the Chaucer student nothing new could be learned from this mutilated version of the Tale.
L.B.
This year premier honours went to Astor—but only because their Play was the least tedious of a set of mediocre productions. The acting lacked the enthusiasm and spirit which had been infused in past Productions, and, it is feared, if this downward trend continues, the competition will be nothing short of a worthless farce.
However, the producers must be congratulated on brave yet uninspiring efforts, for the casts at their disposal were not what might be called a producer’s dream. At rehearsal the productions suffered through absenteeism, illness and those who dropped out at crucial moments, so poor performances were all that could be expected when the time for presentation arrived.
In Astor’s "The Old Bull" (produced by C. Bailiff) good opportunity for characterisation was afforded, which the actors seized and maintained, though the play was far too wordy to gain the audience’s rapt attention.
Priory were runners-up with "Shoot!" (produced by F. Imrie), though the play was so trivial that it did not warrant this placing. To start with, the majority of the cast had to portray characters roughly their own age, and the result was most pedestrian. It was a pity the producer laid so much emphasis on the cheap slap-stick, and we presume that in judging, even the minds of the most astute can be swayed by the laughter of the mob.
The second act of "The Admirable Crichton" (produced by A. W. Bradley) was the choice for Park. Both this play and that of Frith were dogged by illness, and the two producers were each compelled by circumstance to act themselves. The last-minute indisposition of one of the Park actors necessitated a stand-in to read the part, and though the cast worked hard against this setback, the result was still badly disjointed and slow.
"Thread o’ Scarlet" (produced by M. J. Edwards) was Frith’s contribution to the competition. The plot was adequately "meaty" and there were signs that a producer had been at work, but the speaking was so atrociously bad that the sterling qualities of the play—if any—were completely lost. Producers—and casts—it is hoped, have gained valuable experience from these one-act plays, though to what good use they can put this experience has yet to be seen.
L.B.
Attendance at meetings of the Society was rather low, due, no doubt, to the Inter-House Rugby and Cricket fixtures, in which a number of our members were engaged. Few meetings were held during the weeks preceding and following the Easter holidays, but those held provided members with a very enjoyable hour.
The subject, "That this House considers that Communists should be allowed to keep their positions in any important military or civil appointments" provided an extremely lively and interesting debate which, however, did not become too riotous. Eight absentees in a poll of nineteen members revealed that open minds were being kept on the subject.
A Committee Meeting passed a proposal by Mr. R. Freer to admit Fourth-Formers to meetings.
During the Summer Term two discussions took place, one on "Visual Aids" and the other "Compulsory Games." Attendance was small at these discussions, but the former provided a very Interesting discussion and the latter, a very controversial subject, involved much cross-questioning Both discussions were thoroughly enjoyed by members, who were fortunate in securing the services of such authorities as Mr. A. E. Coulson on "Visual Aids" and Mr. Ruffell on "Compulsory Games."
Although attendance was not very encouraging, the same nucleus was present to make the meetings very enjoyable. Mr. W. G King did much to arrange meetings and restored debates and discussions to their proper course, when irrelevancy developed. The Society was pleased to find at the meetings members of the Staff, who gave a dignified air to the proceedings, and often joined in the wrangling enthusiastically.
It is hoped that Fourth-Formers will take advantage during the Winter Term of their new privilege, and also we would like to see more Fifth-Formers at meetings.
M. J. EDWARDS (Hon. Sec).
A large audience listened to the Orchestra on Open Evening. The highihght of the programme was Alec Rowley’s "Miniature Piano Concerto," from which were played Minuetto and Rondo. J. Oakley was the soloist.
The audience was appreciative of the difficulties facing an orchestra composed of young and inexperienced players. We owe all successes to the indefatigable industry and cheerful patience of Mr Willis and other members of the Staff. Nor can the invaluable assistance of Miss Kay and Miss Burnie be forgotten.
All our members will emphatically agree that the Thursday evening practices are most enjoyable.
Next term, in December, we are joining the orchestra at the girls School for a Schools’ Festival. Needless to say, we shall also be playing for the School play at Christmas.
It is interesting and encouraging to note that our membership increased from three violinists and a pianist, in 1945, to almost thirty at present yet we shall welcome still more.
D.G.W.
Many parents and friends were attracted to the Hall by a performance by the Choir, singing at Open Evening last term, for the first time for many years. The "Hallelujah Chorus," the "Cachucha" from the "Gondoliers" and the final chorus of Elgar’s "Banner of St. George" were rendered. It was generally accepted that the usual high standard of singing was maintained, although there had been inadequate time for practice. Hymns in the morning services are still sometimes varied by descants.
D.G.W.
The Christmas Term saw the beginning of yet another School activity—the Recorded Music Club. This is held in the Hall on Wednesdays, from one o’clock until one-forty. It consists of recitals given by various boys from their own collections of records, some classical, some non-classical, in fact, covering a very wide range in the styles of music. So far, the non-classical music has been the more popular, but we hope as time goes on to create a liking for the better types of music amongst the boys and Staff of the School.
We are very fortunate in having at our disposal the K.E.C. record library, without which we should find it impossible to comply with the many and varied requests.
Our sincere thanks go to Mr. Willis for his kind co-operation in allowing us the use of the radiogram, without which the club would be unable to function, and also to Mr. Cowell for presiding over our meetings.
B. WATTS.
The club was formed just before the Easter holidays, and work commenced on the first plot of land (90ft. x 30ft.) under the guidance of Mr. Archer.
The work on the plot is done by members, on a voluntary rota, so that a different party is available each night of the week. After much heavy manual work it is satisfying to see crops of potatoes, carrots and peas in a healthy state so far advanced.
The idea of the club is for scientific and experimental work, to study the habits of various plants and their diseases. Further plots will be given to the cultivation of flowers and fruit bushes for studies in systematic botany. It is hoped that in the near future a green-house and potting shed will be erected; and bee-keeping is another project which the club has in view.
J. A. BUCHAN, VR.
Daily routine continues in the Library uninterrupted except by
periodic oral examinations. Speaking of examinations, as they loom larger upon
the horizon, so the volume of chatter, usually accompanying private study periods in the Library, decreases until by the time
this report goes to press it will virtually have ceased. May this
taciturnity remain in obedience to the much offended notice over the
door reading “Silence.”
Mention must be made of the labours of Cornelius and Checksfield, of Upper II, who have so patiently been painting a blue and a red stripe on every book in the Library, thus reviving the pre-war custom. It will be much easier for borrowers to distinguish Library books from their own on their shelves at home. It will be news to most Sixth Form users of the Library that there is a rule which requires that a book be returned within a fortnight of being borrowed. This rule is to be more strictly enforced in future.
The Library Staff is engaged in a process of "thinning out." Many books have inevitably become out of date, are little used and occupy space which can be ill-afforded on the shelves. Therefore, it has been decided to discard them to salvage. Books presented to the Library, together with others which might be of use on rare occasions, are being stored away.
The recent new books are far too many to be fully enumerated
here, but some of the more important are:—
003/5 Lemprière “Classical Dictionary”
02/15 Smith, etc Oxford Dictionary of English Proverbs”
36/51 Ledermann “Introduction to Theory of Finite Groups”
50/23 Cole & Postgate “Common People, 1746-1946”
620/47 Fowler "Social Life at Rome in the Age of Cicero"
72/82 Dover Wilson “Essential Shakespeare”
82/52 Lawless ‘Rugger’s an Attacking Game”
We should like gratefully to acknowledge some useful presentations, including some valuable back numbers of the magazines "Wireless," "Discovery" and "The Cadet Journal"; several of the ever-poplar William books from Brown and Holyer; "Neptune Laughed" and other novels from A. H. Sabin, Esq.
D. GIRAUD WEAVER.
Since the present Club was inaugurated, last September, great progress has been made. The original League was replaced by 2 Divisions at the beginning of the Spring Term, which gave birth to 3 Divisions in order to keep up with the increasing membership. Though these terminal competitions provide the basis on which nearly all Club games are played, time has been found to play a successful Knock-out Tournament, and a match between the Captain’s team (3½ pts.) and the Vice-captain’s team (1½ pts.). It may be interesting to record that over 500 official games have been played within the Club (besides the provision of facilities for several hundred unofficial games).
So far, only 3 matches have been played against other clubs and anyone who knows of any neighbouring junior club is asked to contact the undersigned.
|
Opponent |
Result | Score |
Date |
|||
| Dover Youth Club | Drew | 3-3 | 26th Jan. | |||
| Dover Youth Club | Won | 4-2 | 2nd Feb. | |||
| Simon Langton | Lost | 1-5 | 19th Feb. |
During the Spring Term, S. Hinchcliffe, of Deal, gave a much
appreciated talk on the principles underlying the game, and Junior
members should try and get a comprehensive knowledge of the
strategy involved, preferably from one of the many books devoted
to the game. A Cricket Match is being arranged with the Stamp
Club, though there appears to be some doubt as to whether both
teams will be playing the same game. Thanks must go to Hogg
and Martin for supervising a division each, and to those masters whose
tolerance and whole-hearted co-operation have done so much. In his respect Mr. Cowell is especially thanked for his assistance in
running the Club.
A. ROGER HORSFIELD (Hon. Sec.).
The Society has progressed successfully during the term and many enjoyable meetings have been held, while programme reorganisation, great enthusiasm from the Lower School, and Mr. Hull’s good work have formed a basis for many more.
With the loss of Coleman as secretary, a new committee of five ardent members was elected at the beginning of the term.
It is hoped that with the Club’s increasing assets we shall be able to join the London Junior Philatelic Society in September, and to obtain their latest magazines for members.
A cricket match has been arranged against our rivals, the Chess Club, and though the Club’s prestige will be at stake, we have not, as is whispered over chess boards, engaged several so-called cricketers.
N. F. HOLYER (Hon. Sec.).
P. F. HOGG (Hon. Treas.).
==
SCHOOL SPORT==
RUGBY.
School 1st XV, 1949.
RESULTS.
Feb. 5th, at Home: Canterbury "A" 10 pts.. School 10.
Feb. 19th, at Home: C.H.S. 13, School 6.
Feb. 26th: at Home : Dover "A" 16. School 0.
Mar. 5th, at Home: Dover "A" 16, School 3.
Mar. 19th, at Ramsgate: C.H.S. 41. School 0.
Mar. 26th, at Home: Old Boys’ XV 17, School 3.
| Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | For | Agst. | |||||
| 6 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 22 | 113 |
It was not altogether a successful season.
At first, with several of last season’s team to build on, prospects Seemed good and early results were promising; but the standard of play did not improve much during the season, and over-all results were no better than those of previous years.
The team, as a whole, did not take well to the hard grounds and warm sunshine, which were prevalent on most match days, and the disastrous game at Ramsgate will long be remembered. We were not unduly troubled by injuries at any time, but were unlucky to lose Grabbam in the first match of the season.
Although the majority of games were against club sides, the forwards were not usually over-shadowed by their heavier opponents and more than held their own in the loose on many occasions. Norman and Pain made good use of their height in the line-outs, and Rooks and Carran did well in the loose. Simmonds was outstanding among the backs, who in the main were too much inclined to fumble their passes and not run straight when they did get them. Tackling throughout the team was generally bad, though there was some improvement towards the end.
The future looks somewhat brighter. The 2nd and Colts’ XVs have given many younger players useful experience and some of these, together with a nucleus of this year’s team, should provide a strong 1st XV next season.
TEAM
KREMER (full-back): very skilful, but lacking in confidence at first.
CROUCH (wing three-quarter): made good use of his speed when be
got the chance.
JENKINS (wing three-quarter): though rather light he made good
use of the ball.
GRABHAM (centre three-quarter): fast and forceful; unlucky to be
injured in his first game.
SIMMONDS (centre three-quarter): combined speed with
opportunism and fine ball control.
STOREY (wing three-quarter): distinguished by his aggressive
tackling.
EVANS (stand-off half): played well, though out of his usual
position, but often held on to the ball too long.
STEVENS (scrum-half): an efficient link between forwards and
backs.
MISKIN (front-row): what he lacked in skill he made up in
determination.
AYLING (front-row): did his job well.
PAIN (second-row): worked hard, especially in the line-out.
WRIGHT (second-row): worked hard in conjunction with Pain.
NORMAN (wing-forward): played very well at the beginning of
the season, but was disappointing in some later matches.
CARRAN (lock): made good use of his weight and showed great
thrust which should have been backed up more often.
ROOKS (vice-capt.) (wing-forward): played consistently well and
gave invaluable help as vice-captain.
D.C.B.
BELSEY (capt.) (hooker): deserved better backing than he got
from the rest of the team. Played all-out from beginning to
end.
T.E.A.
School Rugby Colours are awarded to Belsey, Rooks and
Simmonds.
—:—
2nd XV
The innovation of a School second team gave many eager players valuable experience, but owing to the constant depletion in our ranks, to fill the gaps caused by injury and illness in the first team, we were never able to field a consistent side. It did give us the ‘opportunity, however, of experimenting with new players.
The frequency of adverse decisions was instrumental in nullifying the sting of our attack, this being most evident in the open play. The forwards formed a strong opposition in the scrum, but were redundant in the line-outs, and this, coupled with inaccurate throw-ins, meant that three-quarter movements were confined to opportunities afforded by an attacking scrum. The half-backs played consistently well, with Smith as fly-half, the saviour of many a situation by safe kicking.
Tackling was uninspiring, except in the few, and the art of low tackling was completely lacking in many players, resulting in the fact that an opposing forward gained invaluable ground whilst held most affectionately—yet ineffectively—round the neck.
The three-quarters gained ground when they got the ball, but selfishness in the centre deprived the wings of many opportunities.
Of the five games played one was won, one drawn, and three were
lost, but with more cohesion in forward rushes we might have obtained more favourable results.
PEERS (full-back): was capable of very safe kicking, but preserved
a tendency to fly-kick—with dire results. Was hardly ever seen to prevent forward rushes by falling on the ball.
HUGHES (wing three-quarter): in this player we had a real attacker,
though he might have done better by looking where he was
going.
PLATER (centre three-quarter): though quick to seize an opening,
his handling of the ball was very unsteady.
WATTS (centre three-quarter): a very fast player, he was dogged
by bad luck in this his first season.
DAVISON, J. (wing three-quarter): when the ball did reach him he
gained valuable ground, but throwing-in needs to be
perfected.
SMITH (fly-half): a good, all-round player whose game was an
example to the side.
DAVISON, F. (scrum-half): always alert, he learned from experience that it is best to clear the ball quickly from the serum.
OLDHAM (wing-forward and vice-capt.): one of the few players
always on the ball, his kicking and tackling were both very
accurate.
BELLAMY (lock): always reliable he was a very forceful player.
KNOTT (second row): used his weight to advantage in the serum,
he was always up on the ball in the loose.
BAILIFF (second row): combined well with Knott in the second
row, but was disappointing in the open.
BLACKAH (front row): played a good game and often low-tackled
well.
WRIGHT (hooker): invaluable in this position, but outside the
serum was too often found in an off-side position.
SOUTHEY (front row): most effective in the serum, but never shone
in the loose.
BARRACLOUGH (scrum): ideal in weight and height, he was
always eager to learn, but should always go for the man
and not the ball.
L.B.
BORLEY (wing-forward and captain): full of enthusiasm and inspiring by his keenness and energy, but has much to learn about tactics.
T.E.A.
Freer, Gourley, Hearn and Saunders also played.
During the Autumn Term a number of runs were held, including a "November Handicap" and a paper chase. In the latter, the hounds failed to contact the hares due to the fact that a certain Junior turned the first paper arrow in time wrong direction. In the Spring Term runs were held weekly, including two paper chases, which proved very popular. The Cross-country Committee decided on a new, flatter course of four miles, and also adopted a new ruling that no boy should compete in the Inter-House Race at the end of term, unless he had taken part in at least two practice runs. In spite of this ruling, House Captains succeeded in getting as many boys to turn out for the race as last year.
In the Inter-House Race, Borley, Park’s captain, set a splendid example to the rest of his House in finishing 1st, closely followed by Jackson and Kremer. Nevertheless, it was Frith House which won the team race for the Powell Cup, and also had the greatest aggregate of points for standard times.
The School cross-country team, with Rooks as captain, took part in three inter-club races during the season. In the first race, against Hythe Harriers, time School was victorious by 33 points to 44, Borley coming in third. The second race, which was held at Wye, was a four-cornered contest between Simon Langton’s, Wye College, Chatham House and Dover Grammar The course was over four-and-a-half miles of hilly country, including two stretches of plough-land, and Borley and Kremer did well to finish fourth and fifth respectively. The School was second in this contest, with 66 pts., compared with Simon Langton’s (1st) 63 pts., Chatham House (3rd) 76 pts., and Wye College (4th) 110 pts.
A return match took place with Hythe Harriers during the Easter holidays at Hythe. Time course was rather shorter than those to which the School had been accustomed, and included a stream and woods. With Borley absent, Hythe Harriers turned the tables on us and won by 33 points to 46.
The School team owed its successes in all three races to good packing, this being specially evident in the first match with Hythe Harriers The following boys ran for the School cross-country team:—Rooks (captain), Southey, Borley, Kremer, Jackson, Wright, Hearn, Pain, Martin, Henry and Francis.
We are very grateful to Mr. Ruffell for the hard work he has put in to make this season a success.
E.A.S.
1st XI CRICKET.
This team is the best since the war. Four of the team can bowl well, while at net practice two or three others can keep batsmen thinking. The remainder encourage stroke play and give athletic exercise to small boys in distant pastures.
The outfield has not been as well cut as we should like, but the match wickets have been good and the practice wickets, where cricketers are made or ruined, have shown their annual improvement.
Therefore, it has been possible for a few boys to learn to bat. One member of the team bats very well, and at least four others are promising.
Fielding has been generally adequate, Simmonds setting a good example in this and in other respects.
The coaching by Mr. E. Crush was a very much appreciated help, and thanks should be expressed to Fenwick for efficiently carrying out his duties as scorer.
In conclusion, I should like to say that the teats has regarded
playing cricket well as an enjoyable business. They have been
willing and keen to learn and will, I hope, continue their enjoyment
in successful years of club cricket.
Results.
The School 55—7 dec. Southey 23 not.
Harvey Grammar School 31—4. Crouch 3—10.
Chatham House School 85. Watts 6—19.
The School 42—6. Argent 17.
The Duke of York’s 51. Watts 5—10, Berry 2—12.
The School 131. Argent 37 not, Evans 30 not.
The School 130—8 dec. Peers 30, Simmonds 29, Chapman 26,
Wright 18.
Simon Langton School 63—5. Peers 3—10.
The School 118—8. Chapman 49, Simmonds 23.
Faversham Grammar Sch. 68—6. Crouch 3—25, Watts, 1—3, Peers 1—3.
K. H. RUFFELL.
The School 85. Watts 17.
Harvey Grammar School 51—6. Berry 2—13, Crouch 3—14.
Canterbury Technical 40. Berry 8—11, Crouch 2—6.
The School 79. Evans 14. Norman 14.
—:—
2nd XI
At the beginning of term, trials at the nets were arranged for considerably more than what has emerged as the XI and the reinforcements who turn out regularly. It was with regret that some aspirants had to be rejected, but the limited time and facilities available render the disappointment inevitable.
Norman, the captain, was confronted with the problem of welding into a team a relatively unknown set of recruits—for a match was thrust upon us on the first Saturday of term, by which time rain had already disjointed our practice programme. However, the team responded well, and Norman is to be congratulated on his leadership and his good example on and off the field. Much of the side’s success and the smooth, efficient administration are due to his keen work; Miskin also deserves thanks for his reliability as scorer.
It is too early in the season to remark upon outstanding achievements, but Norman, Stevens, Oldham and Harris have already contributed valuable scores, and Harris and Jackson have proved the mainstay of the attack.
Our bowling lacks variety, and though high dividends may be earned by fast bowlers on many of the pitches available to juniors, some of those who have ambitions to play in future years for the School are reminded not to neglect the slower spinner. An XI is not complete without a reliable leg-break bowler, and the art cannot be cultivated without long practice. Our batsman, too, suffer from lack of practice against the subtler bowler who uses his brain; hence our debacle against the College 2nd XI, who thoroughly avenged the previous week’s defeat.
W.H.J.
April 30th—v. Harvey Grammar Home Harvey 23 (Harris 5-7, Jackson 4-12) School 36 (Oldham 16).
May 7th—v. Chatham House Away Chatham House 79 (Jackson 4-16,
Harris 4-18);
School 80-5 (Norman 33 not out).
May 14th—v. Dover College Away College 123-9 dec. (Harris 5-38);
School 124-7 (Stevens 34, Harris 29,
Norman 24).
May 21st—v. Dover College Home College 92 (Jackson 5-36);
School 19.
June 11th—v. Simon Langton Away S. Langton 101-3 dec.;
School 103-6 (Kremer 31).
June 18th—v. Faversham Away Faversham 91-8 dec.;
School 62-7. Match drawn.
June 26th—v. Harvey Grammar Away School 92 (Stevens 27, Hedgecock 25);
Harvey 59-9 (Jackson 4-10, Harris
4-28). Match drawn.
July 2nd—v. Canterbury Technical Home Canterbury 70 (Harris 4-21, Hopper
4-11): School 83-8 (Hopper 27,
Hedgecock 22).
July 9th—v Ashford Grammar Away School 138-8 dec. (Hedgecock 39);
Ashford 46 (Wright 4-10, Hopper
3-13).
—:—
Junior "A" XI
Under the captaincy of West the team is showing reasonably good form. At the start of the season the batting was rather timid and running between wickets was poor. This fault has now been partly rectified and batsmnen are now calling better and not wasting so many runs. Bowling throughout has been steady and the fielding good. Several members of this team should develop into useful cricketers.
D.R.B.
April 30th.—School 18; Harvey G.S. 31. Evans 3—6, Litchfield 3—8, Knights 2—9.
May 14th.—School 37: Chatham House 48. West 4—9.
May 21st.—School 89 (Knights 22, Ellis 15). D.R.Y.M.S. 34 (Holland 7—10).
June 11th.—School 80 (Knights 17, Marsh 12). Simon Langton 80 (Holland 3—12).
June 18th—School 75 (Fitzpatrick 23). Faversham G.S. 44 (Ellis 4—5).
June 25th.—School 42 (Ellis 20). Harvey G.S. 128.
July 2nd.—School 44 (Holland 13). Canterbury Tech. 35 (Litchfield 2—6, Knights
3—3).
July 9.—School 48 (Litchfield 12). Ashford G.S. 123 (Knights 3—17).
—:—
Colts’ XI
Although the Colts only had three matches they played well together as a team. Out of the three matches played they won two and lost the other. Hughes, Gilday and Miskin bowled well and with great accuracy. Out of these three Hughes bowled especially well. Against Sandwich he took 9 wickets for 6 runs, Watkins helping to take four of them by making good catches in the slips.
The following played for the Colts: Eade, Watkins, Hughes,
Miskin, Gilday, Archer, Reader, White, Kelly, Pepper, Francis,
Leadner and Reason.
Chatham House, Ramsgate—65 (Miskin 4 for 3); Schaol—53. Match lost.
Sandwich—12 (Hughes 9 for 6); School—89 (Eade 34). Match won.
Duke of York’s—28: School—86 (Eade 21, Pepper 22). Match won.
==
HOUSE NOTES.==
Astor House
Captain ... ... ... ... ... ... D. C. BELSEY
In the last notes we welcomed newcomers in the First Form and expressed the hope that they would soon acquire the Astor spirit and give of their best to the House.
Our hopes have been fulfilled and keenness runs high among the Juniors. Many of the newcomers have already represented the House at football and cricket, and two gained places in the East Cup soccer team; for others there will soon be a chance to show what they can do at swimming and athletics.
The Seniors, too, are keen, with some exceptions, who should take an example from the Lower School, but so far this year they have been unsuccessful. Having played hard at rugger and lost, and run hard in the cross-country and lost, they should not be discouraged but aim at success in the remaining Inter-House events this term.
Training for the School Sports and P.T. Competition are under way, and facilities are available at the Duke of York’s School baths for the swimmers.
Cricket, too, has been a weak spot among the Seniors this year, the House supplying only one member, Wright, to the School teams, and we have yet to win a match. However, when the present Third Form reach 1st and 2nd XI standard our prospects should be brighter.
Another bright spot, in a hitherto unaccustomed sphere, was our success in the Inter-House Dramatic Competition. Bailiff, our producer, all the cast and the stage staff deserve great credit for a fine performance.
—:—
Frith House.
Captain J. Rooms: Vice. Captain E. A. Southey
In spite of the lack of enthusiasm in the House for Rugby we did well, tying with Priory for 2nd place, the 1st XV losing one match and the 2nd XV two. We would stress than on no occasion did we field a full 2nd XV.
Our hopes for the East Cup, unfortunately, were not realised, our Juniors being knocked out in the first round by a strong Priory XI. But we have hopes of the East Cup for cricket this term.
The result of the Inter-House Cross-Country Race, however, was very satisfactory, the House winning by 5 points from Park. Southey (4th) was the first home for Frith. It was very pleasing to see the number of boys who turned out for practice, and who completed the course in the standard time.
Perhaps the less said about the House play the better, but here again, its failure can be mainly attributed to the lack of support given by House members, particularly those not engaged in Rugby or running.
In the cricket matches so far we have fielded two strong XIs, which have done quite well, and we have great hopes. We should also do well in the Athletics, Swimming Sports and P/T. Competition. We advise all boys to train for these events. In particular, it should be stressed that each athletic standard gained adds a half point to the final score.
—:—
Park House.
Captain L. BORLEY: Vice. Captain R. FREER
Before committing ourselves on what the future holds let us first brighten the outlook with reflection on the past. Our supremacy on the Rugger field—as also fruitful endeavours resulting in our gaining second place in the Cross-Country Run—certainly makes the outlook bright; we must, however, remember that such events as Swimming and Athletics lie just around the corner. As a House we have never considered ourselves amphibians, preferring the sound of the willow and the smell of the leather to aquatic pursuits, but perhaps, with the revolution in the House system, we may yet produce some worthy swimmers to offer competition to the other Houses. Incidentally, if anyone has fish-like tendencies then let him present himself, without delay, to Webber, our swimming captain, who will be only too glad of some support.
With regard to Athletics, a similar spirit to that produced for Cross-Country running might have the desired effect. We can never urge you too munch to train and win your athletic standards, for every single point will count in this Championship race.
At the time of writing, the cricket season has yet to get really going, so rash forecasts will be advantageous to no one. The state of the pitch being as it is and the English summer what it might be, it is impossible to determine future results. The Juniors started well, but captains are well advised to remedy any weaknesses in attack, as a recent Third Form match exemplified.
J. Davison has been appointed P.T. captain, and it will be his job to get a team in training, so rally round all you exponents of the gymnastic art and we’ll see what can he done. Bear in mind the fact that finishing-off in apparatus work counts for so much.
As this term will be my last as House captain, I should like to thank all of you for making my term of office such a pleasant one, and to wish you all the very best of luck for the future, and I echo the words of preceding Captains in saying—Remember, Greens, you can never do too much for your House.
—:—
Priory House.
Captain C. J. HENRY
Rugby proved to be more successful this year. The 1st XV won a single game and there was an exciting match, versus Park, to round off the season. Many members played for the School and did consistently good service for the House. The 2nd XV had a particularly fine season; won all three games and so placed us second with Frith House.
The House play, “Shoot,” ably produced by Imrie, gained second place with an amusing performance from all concerned.
B. Watts is again House cricket captain, and has just been awarded his School colours. So far this cricket season we have won both our matches and feel confident we can maintain this success.
The Cross-Country Competition left us retaining the third position. Jackson and Kremer deserve credit for finishing second and
third. They were also regular members of the School Cross-Country
team. Many runners for the House returned in standard time.
Valuable points are now being earned by passing the standard athletic
tests and so preparing for Sports Day. Carran has been placed in
charge of the House P.T. team for the competition, due at the end of
term.
In conclusion, I reach one of our strong points—Swimming. I look with confidence to a repetition of last year’s victory and the hope of Junior talent to carry on the swimming traditions of Priory House.
How I loathed sweet rationing. Every week when sweet rationing was with us, having received my pocket money, I would hurry to the nearest confectioners and buy my 4 ozs. or 3 ozs., as the months varied from three-quarters-of-a-pound to one pound. Going to the pictures I would see boxes of chocolates and sweets, and pray for the day when rationing ended.
Then a rumour went round that sweet rationing was to end. I said I would believe it when I saw it. But then, munch to my delight Mr. Strachey announced that on the 24th of April sweet rationing would end. Devoting Saturday to selecting my sweets, I gazed at them through time glass lovingly. That night I dreamt of humbugs, toffees, mints, rocks, chocolates and my weakness, Turkish Delight. Getting up on the Sunday morning, I did a few jobs and hurried down to the only shop open on a Sunday, but to my dismay I was at the end of a long queue! When I finally came to the counter the proprietor said, “Sorry, son, only Dolly mixtures left.” How I longed for my 4 ozs. of Turkish Delight.
R. CLARKE, U.III.
Pharaoh lay in his usual place on the sunny lawn, with his eyes half shut and his chin resting on his paws. He was thinking about himself. He was a huge, ginger cat with fine whiskers and a long tail. He could hold his own against any cat in the neighbourhood.
Although there was a lot of discontent about his rule (for his orders were obeyed without question) no cat in his senses would treat Pharaoh with anything but respect. When it came to mousing, Pharaoh could come to within two or three feet of a mouse without it, knowing, and his final light, quick spring was as sure as, and probably surer, than any trap.
His thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a commotion, and he saw three cats perching on the wall. They were the gossips of the neighbourhood. He knew that they were jealous of his splendour and that they were trying to find some failing in his abilities, to spread and enlarge upon until the very kittens laughed in his race.
Just then the Human Boy came up on the lawn near him. Suddenly Pharaoh stiffened. There, in front of him, was a small mouse creeping slowly through the grass. He made a cautious step forward. The mouse did not increase its speed. Slowly, step by step, the big cat advanced towards its prey. Suddenly he sprang. The mouse jumped forward at an incredible speed. The cat landed heavily, with unsheathed claws, just short of the target.
Pharaoh was astounded. For the first time in his life he had failed. He could feel the eyes of the jeering gossips on him. He must finish this mouse quickly or they would spread their contempt, and his life would not be worth living.
He sprang again, but the mouse shot forward as no other mouse could have done, and Pharaoh missed.
He was now in a wild frenzy. He sprang again and again, but each time the wonder-mouse shot forward. His rage turned into despair; the sniggers of the cats on the wall had grown into open laughter; even the Human Boy was chuckling.
He sprang again, deliberately in front of the mouse, but this time it did not move, and Pharaoh’s claws dug into the earth.
He must give up, he thought. It was no use. The gossips were going joyously to spread the news. He crept humbly into the garden shed and hid behind the door. His career as ruler of the neighbourhood was ended.
The Human Boy walked chuckling down the path, pulling the toy mouse behind him.
D. AUSTIN, U.II
==
FORM NOTES==
VI Arts.
Countless numbers of "Pharos" readers have anxiously enquired the reason why there was no bulletin from VI Arts in the last edition. That VI Arts still exists is manifest to all who peruse the pages of the magazine. Why, then, was there no report from the Senior Form of the School? The truth is that the reporter appointed was too engrossed in the sport which had usurped table tennis from the premier position in fashion and popularity. The sport? It used to go under the doubtful name of shove halfpenny, but in practice it varied according to the wealth of the players. May we take this opportunity of denying rumours that two VI Artists were seen playing with two £l notes and one 10s. note. In that case, the players were the civil servants to be, living in luxury on their ill-gotten gains from the N.B.B. (National Bun Board to you).
I was speaking just now of the wealth not of nations, nor even of black coats, but of the future leaders of nations—VI Arts. It was learned the other day that an ex-member of our form is cruising the seven days in a Norwegian cargo boat—and is having to work. In half-an-hour in New York he spent 60 dollars. Just imagine what he might have bought—candy, chewing gum, clothes, watches, food, ties, coca-cola, television sets . . . . But did he buy any of these luxuries? No, all he wanted and obtained can be given one magic(?) name—nylons!
The frequent accusation by the lower caste Sixth Forms against VI Arts is that we study only the past. Let this be refuted for ever. Our professional rabbit-keeper has friends in New South Wales, who are very liberal with their pictorials. The rabbit-keeper hands these to our Dealite, on the pretence of being of use geographically. However, the geographical value of these colourful American-type magazines is completely out of proportion to the enthusiasm with which they are welcomed. Perhaps some answer can be inferred from the cuttings found in the geographer’s desk.
Finding things in desks, that reminds me—those parents who searched the desks of their offspring on Open Evening, and who survived the shock, should note that we do not intend setting up a dairy farm, nor do we intend to sell the bottles.
The activities of the artists are, of necessity, numerous, and
continually changing. For example, one used to amuse himself each
morning at the bottom of Tower Hamlets before wrenching himself
away to School. Now the amusement has been removed to River
Meadows. The Health and Strength League, working through our
pugilist can work wonders; it is rumoured that our bonny sailor laddie
who so adamantly refused to exert himself down the Tower last
term to P.T. has now acquired some athletic standards for his House.
I find I have not said anything about the "remarkable" progress that has been made in work. We should like to do much more than at present, but until the rest of the Sixth Forms pull their weight in running the School such “faux pas” are excusable as that—no, I had better not give away too many secrets. The examiners in H.S.C. are sure to understand. That reminds me—I do not want to risk the displeasure of examiners next year so must return to the proverbial grindstone.
—:—
Upper VI Science.
I am using a new system of spelling; this system bears no resemblance to any other system of rational spelling, either Shaw’s Simplified or Follick’s Fonnetik. It is not designed to help school children or foreigners learn English quick, but simply to abolish spelling mistakes by simply abolishing spelling. This is obviously a Good Thing.
Epistle to the Pharosians II.
We have received more presents from Santa Crausland, so many in fact that the following advertisement is said to have appeared in a local paper:—
1 Gentleman with 18 Cathode Ray Tubes wishes to meet 1 Gentleman with 18 Bright Ideas with view to fitting 1 C.R.T. to each B.I.”
—which illustrates the folly of bulk buying.
We understand it is becoming fashionable to have a form motto, so we asked the artistic section of the form (the people who know how much the Colossus of Rhodes cost and how many elephants Hannibal took over the Alps) to write one. It should be short and stirring, urging us on to greater effort, so that some of us might not fail Higher too badly.
We rejected "Pas de le Rhone que mious" (Paddle your own canoe) in favour of "Ma jardinère n’a pas la plume de ma tante"—which sounds very French but we are not quite sure what it means.
To celebrate the end of sweets rationing we presented our Maths. Master with a box of special assorted fudge.
Our correspondent interviewed members of the forum on the following important question:—
What changes do you think will be made in Grammar School education when the new examination is introduced in 1951?
The result was as follows:—
| Yes | = | 31% |
| No | = | 5% |
| Don’t no | = | 100% |
| No. in form without caps | = | 15 |
| Date last Tuesday | = | 22 |
| Total ... ... ...(?) | + | 173% |
If anyone can think of a game we can play in the Physics lab. during dinner hour will they please let us know. We have at our disposal quantities of corks, ball-bearings, and half-metre rules.
We have already a game similar to cricket, there are few rules and any number can play. If you hit a cork into the dark room it counts six, and if you hit a ball-bearing through the glass doors of the cupboards it counts as a lost ball and the game stops.
But do not think our life is all milk and doughnuts—we have to eat wads sometimes same as you. We have been told that if we want bread and butter we will have to read our chemistry book, and if we want jam as well we will have to learn it.
I see the Snub-editor is already getting out his scissors and paste, so if this report seems disjointed read "Ye Chronic-tale" as welle.
Goodbye, Pharosians, and good luck.
ELEU.
—:—
Lower VI Science.
The Form have recently found time during the dinner hour to indulge in a new pastime, which is somewhat akin to bear-baiting, and is tied up with the Form’s motto: "Ubi est Webber" or, translated, "Where’s the Wire?" Much enjoyment has been had by all in the following of this sport, including our "premier" chemist, who has already attempted to assassinate the chemistry master by means of boiling conc.H2SO4.
Our chief organist has been reported as having been devoting much of his time purchasing music (sic) in a certain well-known music shop.
Rumour has it that all fraternization in the Barton Road area ceased, due to the intervention of a Western European Power.
The Form is playing its part in the School activities, having
representatives in the choir and the 1st and 2nd cricket tennis. (Please
note: L.VI. Sc. have won all their matches despite contrary rumours.)
—:—
VI. Economics.
Having escaped for many years from the ordeal of writing the Forum Notes, I have at last been defeated. I’ll start by telling you about some of the things that have been going on up here lately.
Some of our books, especially the most expensive ones, have developed the habit of disappearing from the shelf. All "swear" they haven’t got them. However, they usually turn up in someone’s desk sooner or later, much to the annoyance of our Form Master. Until this term we have kept our table tennis table outside our room, but one day it was missing; however, we soon found it and now we keep it downstairs so as not to make any more black marks with it on the floor outside our door. But they are nothing compared with the black looks that come through the door at times; need I say from whom?—Yes, our dear neighbour from below still comes up to see us occasionally, usually when we least want him to.
Once when we tried to attract his attention we were rudely interrupted by our neighbour with the moustache, who lives opposite, and he spoilt all the fun. To get to the more serious side of life, although we do a certain amount of work, the Form has been well represented in many School activities. In cricket we have the captain and one other in the 1st XI, three members of the 2nd XI and four of us played in Rugby XVs last term. Bailiff was the producer of the winning play in the House Dramatic Competition. Four of us are in the choir with others in danger of being recruited.
P. A. HALL.
—:—
Upper V.
Have you ever been in a Wonderland, sometimes called U5? Just imagine the scene: the tropical flowers adorning the ivory-topped desks; the walls decorated in delicate shades of pink; the languid Mediterranean airs (which, as you must have heard, are very much in vogue). In a prominent position you can see a well-dressed gentleman (who may be distinguished from his pupils by his sombre black tie) as he speaks the King’s English in a subdued and gentle voice. Modern amenities include refreshments supplied by a charming and courteous prefect as desired.
Another feature of U5 life is the tourist trade, which causes periodic invasions usually followed by nervous breakdowns, “parsimi les professeurs.”
How green was my valley! Our place in the sun is in serious danger of disfigurement by a vast agricultural undertaking By the way, who are those innocent little cherubs who politely survey this exploitation of the Empire when the rest of us are learning that the CORRECT equation for the preparation of chlorine is. 4HCl+MnO2=MnCl2±2H2O+Cl2?
One interesting innovation this year was the division of the Form into two tribes, the Historyites and the Geogoites. At first the King of the Geogoites tried to annex the Historyites, but only on one memorable occasion were they placed under his trusteeship. At least, rex omnipotent cannot plead frontier incidents, or internal disturbances, which places him at a disadvantage.
One of time more distinguished U5ites has been transported to Australia, and into doubt we shall hear of him again. As Seaman said: “Soon there will be more than tobacco in his pouch.”
"Dr. Faustus" doesn’t appear to be very popular among certain amateur ‘bus conductors on the Folkestone route. But, of course, that was after......
Our enthusiasm for Rugby seems to have astonished members of the staff. On the other hand, the form is a chess stronghold and getting on for 20 play time game. Our superiority in other recreations is acknowledged.
A. ROGER HORSFIELD.
—:—
Middle V.
Over the Witsun Hollydays we have fergotten all the werk that we mite have lernt in the past for amid a harf years. You must exhews our speling, punctuashumi, etc. The eppydemic of ferimiture-braking was braught to a close by the smashing of three winders—a fine score—i’ faith.
On Aprill the furst a grand spring-cleen was held which resulted in a reversall of desks, the removal of the black-bords, in fact, a glorius mixup Erly in the turin aim orckshun was held, one of the original Markoni-sets being the victim, and the proseeds were gratefully receeved by Gaithows for charity.
It is said that some wun has an Oxford Dicshunary somewhere
near, so I will go and look for it. Bradley, emitering form-room: “This
looks rather hike M.V.’s long-lost form notes—I had better take them
Straight away.”
—:—
V. Remove
With no brakes to stop us we roar towards School Certificate: too fast for some of us who are not ready for the journey’s end. We cleared a traffic block in the form of “Prelim,” and all of us will arrive at the terminus if no more fall out. Stiles and Lynn have already done so. the latter outside the offices of the National Coal Board.
Our work is progressing very well indeed (six of us having dropped French as it was so bad), and at last we are convinced that Silas Marner is not the fairy-godmother in “Twelfth Night.”
Our Form is represented in all walks of School life and the latest reports say that our presence enlivens the atmosphere.
We have two Form “Bullies,” but their names must remain anonymous for ever!
B. C. KEMP.
—:—
Lower V.
School Certificate! How many generations of schoolboys have been terrorised by those two dread words, and then later, sent into an ecstatic stupor at the knowledge of victory! But on the other hand, think of the poor individual who fails. Miserable youth, he has dashed his form master’s hopes to the ground and fulfilled the expectations of the rest of the staff.
Nine from our Form take the examination, all long to pass, a few are hopeful and all of them “swot.”
Our hospital collector has developed, of necessity, a type of low cunning in order to extract from us our subscriptions, but most of us have developed a counter-subscribe technique, which often baffles him. The adept at this is the person who sits in the corner near the lockers, but then, he is an expert at all financial transactions that are detrimental to the health of one’s pocket.
A. SCOTT.
—:—
Upper IV.
After the Easter holidays we welcomed Barry Forward, who has managed to return after an absence of over two years. A sad farewell was paid to Newby, most famed for his work as homework monitor.
Burton, the most (in) famous member of our illustrious Form, has managed by hook or by crook to become charity collector. We all give our contributions cheerfully, though, knowing that his charitable feelings will overcome his desire for radio valves.
In the Inter-House Cross-Country Run eight of us competed, everyone obtaining the standard time. A special mention should be made of Jacobs, who throughout the winter stuck to his guns, and whose efforts were well rewarded in coming 16th.
Six of our number play for School cricket XI’s, but the cricket
season has not been particularly successful for the Form to date.
Batting has been indifferent, but Makey has proved to be our most
consistent bowler. The rest of us hope to improve our averages in
future, however, under the leadership of our “strong man,” McManus.
It must be added that his position as Form strong man has been
widely disputed, two previous "outsiders" now having a strong
claim. By the time this issue of the "Pharos" is published, the
proof of the strength of one of them will have disappeared, we hope.
—"What’s all this about?" you may ask—Only a black eye!
As for our scholastic studies, physics periods usually develop into an argument between Mr. Coulson and Burton, with Jacobs and Devonshire hovering in the background. School Certificate always manages to poke its nose in somewhere, and this term has awakened many of us from our “deep dream of peace” at the approach of that examination, for we are continually being told we are the worst Upper IV there (ever) has been or will be. A slight exaggeration, perhaps, but nevertheless, minus-twos, red ink and corrections are making some of us wonder.....!
J.E.H.
—:—
Middle IV.
The Forum has started a Magazine under the editorship of Walford, who has the difficult job of choosing the articles for it.
Here’s wishing our friend, Brooshooft, a speedy return to better health and schooling. The standard of the cricket in our Form is improving under the leadership of Francis, and unlike football, we have won a game.
Newby and Ledner have joined our Form and they are accepted as members of our community. We regret to say that we have lost Hackett, Pepper and Forward.
A. GILDAY.
—:—
Lower IV.
When we returned from our Easter holidays we found that the Form had increased by one; Hackett and Pepper had joined us, but Ledner had left. Later on, at half-term, Igglesden left us to do some real work.
Last term was the rugger term, but the Form did very badly although many played for their House Second XV, and one member played for the School Colts (Kelly). As this term is the cricket term the cricket captain was elected, and Hughes had the majority and four of the form have been selected for the School Colts, namely, Hughes, Pepper, White and Kelly, with Hill for the Juniors.
Well, that’s all for this edition—more next time.
L. T. G. KELLY.
—:—
Upper III.
A rather fierce controversy is raging at the moment over the Form motto. The question is whether it shall be "Puorum est talia facere" (for P.W.D.L.L., this means "Boys will be Boys"), or “l’ union fait la force et le devoir.”
Sport, too, remains a somewhat controversial subject, and two differing factions argue as to whether I should concentrate on the four boys who played for Dover, or stick to the fact that the Second XI has only lost one match at football. (As you may well imagine, I am neutral.)
Between the exponents of Chess and Philately there can be no agreement, but most people acknowledge the supremacy of Junior Dramatics, or, at least, Bailey, Brown, Boyne, Boughton, Dewar, Jervis, Ruck, Stiff, Wilcox and Woodhouse do.
We are all agreed about monitors; that Boughton is overworked, Jervis underworked, and that the Secretary is probably getting to know Wilcox by sight now.
Davison and Burville, as newcomers, agree on many things.
One thing which no one is agreed on, is the pronunciation of
D. N. JERVIS.
—:—
Middle III.
Our cricket XI has started off the cricket season quite well, playing tour games out of which it has won three and drawn one. The Form produces four Junior XI players.
The hospital monitor, Parsons, is having quite a busy time collecting money, although it all seems in vain.
Maslen, the Forum captain, has not had much to write in the order-mark book as last term.
Under the supervision of Mr. Cowell, our Form master, a small party is going to London to see the Science Museum and hoping to have a good time.
B. NYE.
—:—
Lower III.
Much to the amazement of most of the masters, our Form has improved, although we are not quite civilized yet.
Our Form master, Mr. Butcher, has introduced a new seating arrangement whereby the top boy has the choice of the two back corner seats, and then the boys sit according to their Form order at half term. The lower your position the nearer you sit to the master. That would work well, if————!
With the new homework timetable and with Wilberforce’s poor memory we have not had too much homework.
Now we have the exams to look forward to—Ugh!
P. KNIGHTS.
—:—
Upper II.
With the approach of next term, the portals of U.III loom large upon our horizon, and we are keeping our fingers crossed in the hope that we will all get there.
Since the recent examinations we have lost Don and Gunn and gained Mockeridge, Almond and Reynolds. Our homework monitor remains the same, and still, unfortunately, does not suffer from loss of memory.
As the cricket season is still in its infancy, one cannot write much about it, except by mentioning Ellis, captain of the 1st XI, and the solitary game we have played so far, which was a draw.
R. HOLLAND.
—:—
Middle II.
We now have 29 boys in our Form instead of our original number of 30, as we have lost Mockeridge, Almond and Reynolds to Upper II and have gained Gunn and Don from there.
Our new captain is Lee, Almond’s successor.
We have done reasonably well in cricket this term, having drawn with Lower II and tied with Upper II.
We feel that as a Form we are taking a good share in the activities of the School Choir—six of us are now singing in it.
D. A. SAKER.
—:—
Lower II.
This year we have elected Butcher as our cricket captain, and Johnson as vice-captain. Butcher also has been given the Form captaincy. Quite a number of our boys have played in House teams. Three of our promising bowlers are Abbott, Tartt, and Griffiths. We welcome two newcomers to the Form, Stephens and Painter.
B. LANE.
—:—
Upper I.
Since we wrote last, we have lost our excellent goalkeeper, Allen, who has gone to Portsmouth. We have received Crush, Mahon and Morgan from Middle I, and have lost Gillings, Marsh and McEwen.
Our cricket team has not done so well as our football team did, but it is ably led by Stephens, who has the best batting average, Knight having top bowling figures.
We have nearly all enjoyed a visit to the Duke of York’s swimming baths, and even for the non-swimmers it is well worth going.
We are greatly looking forward to the Exams in July, we don’t think!
J.W.M.
—:—
Middle I.
Coming back from the Easter holidays we found 6 boys had left the Form and 5 had come in.
We started the cricket season by beating Upper I. Our most promising bowler is Collard, who took six wickets for 3 runs, and Marsh is top of the batting, with 13 runs.
It has been a joy to go swimming at the Duke of York’s, and there were quite a number of swimmers amongst those who went. We are now no longer strangers to the School, and there was great rejoicing when we heard there was not going to be any homework on Wednesdays for the Summer Term.
P. W. GRAVES.
—:—
Lower I.
Two of our Form have gone up this term, they are Wall and Collard, and three have come down, Coade, Dale and Strachan.
Our Form has already recovered from the bad season of football by winning the first of our cricket matches on a Saturday against Upper 1 2nd XI.
During the Easter holidays this year, many parents co-operated with a society in London to give a party of French boys and girls a holiday in England, which I am sure they will all cherish for some time to come.
The children arrived at Dover on March 24th, at about 4.0-4.30 in the afternoon. Parents and their children were waiting outside the Marine Station, waiting eagerly to welcome his or her particular guest. Having been recognised by tabs worn on their coats, the children were escorted to their hosts’ and hostesses’ homes to remain there for a month.
Having had one of the French boys myself, I am in a position to trace the return home of one family, my own, plus a rather timid guest. Having no car as some did, we took a taxi home, C........., our guest, was very quiet but all the same pleasant, if you can understand what I mean. Tea was ready when we arrived home, so after introducing C........ to our house, we had tea. During tea C........ began to talk, the more he ate the more he talked, proving that he must have been starved on the boat, or, that he had an unusual appetite for a boy of 16!
After tea C........ presented my mother with a bottle of perfume and my sister and me with sweets, showing that he really was grateful to us for his holiday to come. His shyness was completely gone by the next morning, and he fitted in with the family amazingly well.
My French boy came from Lille, as did a few others.
One French girl of about 10 lived with a family, none of whom spoke French! She was one of the unlucky ones.
Many, if not all of the girls were ill on the boat crossing the Channel, and certainly they missed their own homes for the first few days, especially those for whom this was the first time they had left their own homes for a strange country.
One party of French children went to London and, according to a magazine which was sent to me, enjoyed themselves immensely. Princess Elizabeth said, "an revoir" to the children on their departure.
On the whole, I think (and hope) that the French children returned to France with very pleasant memories of England, after having received the hospitality of our English homes as well as having sampled our rations!
F. O. BOYNE, U.III
Settling Down
The English master comes in and announces that it is Clause
Analysis this lesson. A feeble groan, mingled with muttered threats
floats round the Form room, but, pretending not to notice this, the
master again declares that it is Clause Analysis. Very slowly the
boys get their books out. One wastes time by saying that one of his
books is missing; another’s pen is broken; a third, more daring, asks
if he may walk round the quadrangle as he does not feel very well.
But, as usual, it is no use: at last silence is savagely ordered and the
slow scratching of School nibs becomes audible.
Difficulties Explained
Soon a boy gets up and creeps to the master’s desk and asks about a difficulty. With the air of one facing martyrdom the master goes off into a long description of clauses, the work they do, their names and importance and how they may be recognised, taking it for granted that the poor boy is following him, but he, although trying to look intelligent, has not the faintest idea what the master means. When the master has finished explaining, he asks the boy whether he understands now; and not wishing to be offensive, the poor boy says that he does. Thus endless streams of mystified boys are visiting the master’s desk and returning to their place even more mystified.
Some boys have suggested assassination, but that would only head to another new master, who might be much keener on Clause Analysis (if that is possible), and that would never do, as we would probably have to start all over again as soon as he detected our ignorance of Clause Analysis. There have been dark mutterings of suicide, but the trouble is that I cannot find a gun.
P. KNIGHTS, L.III.
It is at about this time of the year that we older people can enjoy ourselves watching the antics of our young friends, the pupils of the School. Year after year they come and go, and really there seems to be little difference between the modern youth and his predecessors. Young boys still think the same thoughts and do the same deeds as we once did.
For instance, they still have the same earnestness in argument over matters which, though trivial to us, appear serious to them. Only recently some of the young puppies in the Upper Science Form were becoming quite worried over the question of Culture. They really believed that they were culture-starved and were most concerned at the prospect of growing up ignorant of music and drama. And this, of course, led them to the wider subject of Education. They, meeting the bogey of Education for the first time, very earnestly and very ignorantly discussed it between themselves to no purpose whatsoever. It is wrong to discourage these youngsters from such discussion, but may I point out to them that I, as an experienced man, would advise them first to find out more about these general matters before attempting to comment on them. Let them remember that there are many sides to every question, and no man can judge properly something about which he knows little.
Youth’s greatest complaint against age is that it is slow, but let them remember that we are slow because we are cautious and cautious because we are wise. Youth’s quick mind has not the capacity for considered judgement that is age’s prerogative. I hope these gentle reproofs will in no way stunt their lovable earnestness, but rather do I wish they will temper their somewhat rash thinking and lead them to the richer paths of true mature thought.
Another eternal property of youth that forces itself upon our attention is its skittishness and liveliness. We all know of the energy and zest of youth, those two long-lost qualities over which we, alas, must ever ponder in nostalgia. As a mild recompense for our stiff age we can still, thank goodness, behold the supple mirthful effusion of spirits from our young friends, and still we can wonder and be amazed at the explosive exuberance of these boys, many of whom are about to enter Universities and many others who are on life’s threshold, and yet they still retain the pert playfulness of young puppies. It is that we most envy in them. If we had half that energy, what wonders we could accomplish! Yet instead we are forced to watch these energies being dissipated in much fruitless endeavour.
For instance, in another part of this magazine, there is an article by an excellent young writer whose powers are certainly worthier of better subjects than little black men. I do not wish to hurt his feelings: he is quite intelligent and would go far if he devoted himself to more mature studies.
So it is with many of them, simply misdirected intelligence. I call to mind another pair who giggled their way through most of the Lower Sixth and much of the Upper Sixth with silly, long-nosed diagrams and darts. Now would it not have been much better for these boys to have shown a graver mien and a more conscientious. attitude to work?
Far be it from me to preach to these boys, a task that I can safely leave to the guests at Speech Day, but I do wish to point out to them the glorious opportunities that lie within their reach, opportunities that are not grasped by gigglers.
Perhaps that is the tragedy of youth, that the world’s treasures lie within its grasp and it does not reach out for them. Then there is nothing left for youth but to become a philosophic greybeard like myself.
R. E. WALFORD, U.VII.
This list of memubers of the Association includes Life Members
and those who had paid annual subscriptions for 1947-48 or later. It
is hoped that those who have not subscribed for the current year will
~~nd 2I~ to Mr. A .R T.pvejs Tinlands. Bushy Ruff. Dover.
Alexander P.
Allen F.
AIIm A. C.
Ashby B.
Austin I. C.
Ayling H.
Bailey C. C.
Bailey K. T.
Bailey R. G.
Baker E. H.
Baldwin C. E.
Bean L. G.
Beer M.
Blackford C. G.
Blaxland S. F.
Bradbeer C. C.
Bromley L. F.
Brown F. W.
Browne A. C. L.
Bugg V. W.
Burke A. W. J.
Burton P.
Bushell D. C.
Butler A. H.
Kent K. C.
Ladd T.
Langford R. D.
Lewis A. S.
Lewis C. G. W.
Lewis D. A.
Lewis G. E.
Lott R. S.
Lovely W. S.
Madams H. H.
Madge K. W.
Marsh P. E.
Marples M. B.
Martin E. H. B.
Martin F. H.
Maynard E. J.
Mayne G. E.
MeVey P. J.
McVey P. W.
Miller J.
Mooreroft J. R.
Mooreroft K.
Moore D. C.
Mnnre fl J•
Castle L.
Clark L. L.
Clayton D. F.
Clout S. C.
Coleman A.
Collard W. E.
Collins R. F.
Connor P.
Conyers A. S.
Cook R. A.
Crouch D. F.
Crush E.
Cuff R.
Dampier G. W. R.
Darby 3. 5.
Darby W. H.
l73elahaye P. F.
Dewar D. A.
Dilnot R. J.
Drury A. E.
Eagles D. G.
Evans H.
Faga A. J.
Field E. F.
Forwood J.
Fox W. H.
Frow L.
Gale D. B.
Gale 3. M.
Gallagher A.
Garside A. B.
Gibb D. A.
Gibb M. G.
Gladish R. W.
Gosly W. M.
Grabham C. A.
Grabham D.
Granger 3. 5.
Greenstreet F.
Grinsted D.
Gunn A. H.
Haddon P.
Hall A. J.
Hampshire E. W.
Hancock 3. W.
Harrison A.
Harrison B. A.
Harrow G. B.
Harvey R. W. B.
Hearn R. A.
Henbrey C. H.
Henbrey R. S.
Henney A.
Hobbs L. A.
Hopkins H.
Humphrey R.
Hurrell A. B.
Hurrell C. M.
Jacobs B.
Jeffery W. B.
Jenkins A. B.
Jones P. W.
Kemp R.
Kemp W. F. (Rev.)
Moore W. T.
Moseling B. W. 3.
Moseling H. F.
Myers G. A.
Newing K. A.
Newing S. T.
Newman H. C.
Newman W. J.
Nye H. E.
Ockenden F. W.
Ovenden D. R.
Ovenden L. R.
Packer L.
Pascall R.
Paye W. H.
Pelham E. C.
Pelham R. A. (Dr.)
Phelan P. 5.
Philpott P. B.
Pileher R. D.
Pittock J. H.
Plater G. R.
Plews G. N.
Prescott B. F.
Pudney B. W.
Rample B. C.
Reeves R.
Rhodes F. J.
Richmond G.
Rigden B. A.
Rigden M. W.
Robb B. A.
Russell J. R.
Russell R.
Ryeland F. G.
Saunders J. M.
Simmonds 3. M.
Simmons R. A.
Simpson K.
SIster H. R.
Smith D. H.
Stopher R. C.
Standen R. G.
Steggles L. R.
Sutton N. V.
Sutton T. A.
Talbot J. P.
Taylor B. W.
Thompson D. R. J.
Tolputt J. H.
Turner R.
Wright 3. H. T.
Worth G. L.
Webster D.
Webster L. G.
Weeks I. H.
Wesley J.
Wenborn S. J.
West Orom F. C.
Wilkinson L. W. 3.
Williams J. D. (Dr.)
Winter R. W.
Woodhouse J.
“The Secretary would be pleased to supply the address of any of the above upon
request.~~Uplands:~ Bushy Ruff, Dover.
In matters of sport, there have been Old Boys’ teams playing
soccer and rugger, and we hope to have two cricket teams to play
the School.
During the Autumn Termn the soccer team defeated the
Favershamn Old Boys’ team in a fixture which our opponents want
to replay on their ground next year. The Old Boys also beat the
School, but when the Old Langtonians came to play the final of the
East Kent Old Boys’ Cup a disjointed Pharosian team was heavily
defeated.
Mr. Archer got together an Old Boys’ Rugger XV to play the
School on 26th March. The team showed considerable variety of
shape, weight, coloimr and Service issue clothing, with the result that
in all ways they proved too much for the School XV and won by
17 points to three.
Should these notes appear before July 23rd, and be read by any
Old Boy who would like to play against the School on that date, he
should get in touch with Mr. Ruffell at the School. We hope to
field an all-day and a half-day side and, of course, all Old Boys will
be suecially welcome at School on that day.
There will be soccer, rugger and cricket matches next year. Boys
leaving school and Old Boys of riper vintage are cordially invited to
give in their namuies to help set Old Boys sport on the return growth
to its pre-war prosperity.
Dr. J. D. Williams (1934-42) has passed his final examination at
Guy’s Hospital and is now fully qualified.
E. C. Pelham (1929-37) passed his examination at Wve College, last
year, and has taken a lecturing appointment at Cirencester
Agricultural College.
E. Crush (1926-35) was awarded his Kent County Cap last season,
and has been playing with success for the County team this season..
He came to School in May to talk on cricket and to coach in the
1st XI nets. The 1st XI bowlers never bowled harder—or worse.
Lt.-CoI. W. M. E. White (1924-32), now on the staff at Sandhurst,
has been playing cricket for the Combined ServIces XI • and
Northants.
Capt. K. A. Newing (1931-40) was iii the Ordnance Department of
the War Once, but has resigned Imis commission and is hoping to
go to Keble College with a view to taking Holy Orders.
E. V. Belsey (1921-24) has recently been elected an A.M.l.Mech
Engineers.
(Any other news? Editor).
Yes, very shortly you mvill be an Old Boy of the School, where
I hope you have spent mammy happy years. You must have done if you
played the game straighmt, not for yourself but for your House and
School. The love for your School, which has grown up with you,
perhaps makes this a sad moment, but there is no need to cut yourself
off entirely froni its associations. By joining the Old Pharosians you
will be linked with tile School and begin to repay the debt you owe
to it. Perhaps shortly you will be leaving the town, either through
service in the Forces or to take up an appointment, and if you are a
member, “The Pharos” will be sent to you providing you with news
‘of your friends and the School.
Do not say your farewells without seeing Mr. Ruffell and saying
Here’s my 2/6 for membership of time Old Pharosians for the first
year.” If you forget, send it to our Hon. Sec., Mr. A. S. Lewis,
Uplands,” Bushy Ruff, Kearsney, Nr. Dover.
With my best wishes for your future.
N. V. SUTTON,
President, Old Pharoslans, 1948-49.
Dear W.W.B.,
I believe my last letter left you deposited somewhat ignominiously on the wharf-
side at Suva, the capital of the islands. I must apologise for this because it
is a dirty
and delapidated spot, and on the arrival of a ship teems with natives smelling
strongly
~of garlic and the noxious fumes of local grown tobacco. On my disembarkation I
Was met by some of my new colleagues and whisked away to a comfortable hotel,
• where it was insisted that I should rest for a week. This amused me, for I had
not
fllone a stroke of work for practically two-and-a-half months.
(• My first impression of Suva was the fact that for a town in the Fiji Islands
there
l•~eresurps-isingly few Fijians there. I learned • later that the Fijians are
actually out-
~a~nmbered, now, by Indians, who are the descendants of labourers brought into
the
~‘~.Ottfltry some hundred years ago, to work in the cane fields. This
constitutes our
local “Indian problem’ though it is not acute at present. The Indians live quite
differently from the Fijians. They run 80 per cent, of the businesses and trades
in
the Colony and are the main occupants of town houses. The Fijians live outside
the
towns, as I • will tell you presently. The Europeans are heavily out-numbered,
about
5,000 in a total population of half-a-million odd.
Nevertheless, Suva is a charming little seaport. I stayed • at the Grand Pacific
Hotel, a fine concrete building, with palm-fringed lawns sloping down to the
sea.
Opposite were the Government Offices, an imposing building surrounded by playing
fields. LAud to digress: you should see these Fijians play tugger and soccer
bare-footedll Up on the hill, behind the town, is Government House, the
residence
of the Governor. The town streets are tarmacced and many shops are similar to
our
own in England. “Boots the Chemists” was a cheerful sight as well as an
unexpected
one. The older buildings are mostly wood constructed, with posts in front where
horses used to be tethered. But no horses are seen on the streets nowadays.
Their
place has been taken by taxis and private cars.
Suva, in fact, could be almost any average-sized town in Kent. In many ways it
reminded me of Ashford. But drive five miles out of the town and it is a very
different story.
After my first week in Suva I was driven to my station at Lantoka, which was
exac:ly on the other side of this, the main island, and 150 miles away. The
drive was
somewhat hair-raising in parts. The road encircles the whole island and for the
most
part seems to follow the line of the original goat tracks. And some goats they
must
have been! On some of the bends up in the mountains the camber is at 30 degrees
with the horizontal—if it weren’t you just wouldn’t get round. Many bends are
both
dangerous and unnecessary. Moreover, the surface of the road, which is mainly
coral
sand, suffers a lot from the heavy rainfall, and corrugations and pot-holes make
driving something of a nightmare. However, throughout this journey I found the
scenery always interesting. • The Suva and Lantoka sides of the island are in
the
wet and dry zones respectively, and the result is a complete difference of
landscape.
There is scarcely a day in Suva without rain, and, consequently, vegetation is
very
thick and fresh green grass grows everywhere. The background to Lantoka is one
of grass-covered hills, not unlike those around Dover. The grass is tough and
coarse
and not of much value for animal feeding.
Compared with Suva, Lanroka is a mere country village, composed of Indian
shops (with a predominance of tailors), and three good European stores which
sell
everything from envelopes to motor cars. Roads are being laid out, and the
present
taste in habitations is for brick bungalows, similar to those we see in England.
This
is very much a developing place, and having a better and drier climate than
Suva,
may become quite an important centre in the next 10 years or so.
Of course, my most urgent desire was to make contact with the true Fijian life
as soon as possible. The Fijians still exist as a kind of tribe, and have their
chiefs
and other officers. Our British administration has been grafted on to this, so
that
there are also Fijian magistrates, doctors and an administrative head in each
village,
known as the “Buli.” He is a Government appointed officer, and is frequently
highly
educated. I met one recently who is a graduate of Oxford, and a most charming
fellow.
The Fijian villages are attractive spots when they are well maintained.
Sometimes
the grass huts ate altowed to deteriorate and they become eyesores. Usually the
village
is situated at the side of a river, beneath shady trees (bread fruits, as a
rule) and has
a wide area of carefully maintained grass all round. The huts have grass or
bamboo
walls, with a huge thatched roof. This roof is often three times the height of
the
house walls, and makes the interior delightfully cool. Each man builds a house
of a
size appropriate to his station. The Buli’s house is the largest of all and is
built on
a small mound overlooking the rest.
It is difficult to believe that the Fijians were once fierce cannibals, though
the
history books assure us that this was so. They are soft spoken and gentle in
their
manners, and burst out laughing on the least provocation. Time means nothing to
them and they are not in the least industrious. In their village life they have
a custom
called “ken-ken” (“what’s yours is mine”) and this frequently gets them into
trouble
when they come into contact with our Western ways. Both the men and women are
fine, strapping specimens, and the curly-headed children who run naked round the
villages look exactly like little black imps. Those Fijians who break away from
the
village life (with the permission of the Bull) usually do very well. At our
Central
Medical School we have trained many in medicine and public health, and large
numbers of girls are trained in nursing every year. Many of these work in
hospitals
in the towns or go back into the country to work at a rural dispensary. The
people
have learned to rely on these services, and the old witch doctor is something
belonging
to the past.
There is quite a large Chinese population, specialising in restaurants and ice-
cream. During the war the American Forces “invaded” the islands, and, of course,
brought ice-cream with them. Our examinations of this product show the numbers
of bacteria present to be truly alarming at times!
Well, I hope that I have given you at least some idea of this place. I cannot
describe the extraordinary impression of peace and the absence of nerve strain
which
one feels after living and working 15 years in London. When I sit in my office
here
and • look out over the incredibly blue sea towards purple lumps of islands on
the
horizon, London and its din seems a long way away. And yet, we have strange
moments of nostalgia when we are suddenly transported to the old scenes and for
an
instant see the old faces again. It can be quite alarming when it happens
unexpectedly,
as you may know. I never dreamed that the reference to “visions of boyhood” in
the old School song really meant so much.
However, I must close, at least for the present, sending my good wishes to
yourself, the Staff and the School. I expect to be home in 1951, and to enjoy a
real
Reunion. Sincerely yours,
H. H. MADAMS.
D. H. Grossman; R. Capaldi; R. Newing; I. 3. MacPherson; D. C. Stephens;
L. C. Painter; J. Mullin; I. C. Jarvie.
LAs only three boys, on leaving, provided the necessary details, we cannot hold
ourselves completely responsible for any mistakes or omissions in the
following.—
Editor.1
A. K. Coleman.—Entered 1946. House 1st XI cricket, 2nd XI soccer, 2nd XV
Rugger, P.T. team; Debating Society; Geography Society; Philatelic Society (Hon.
Sec.): Choir; Dramatic Society; School Cert. (Matric. Exemp.) 1948. To RAF.
IV. 3. Money.—Entered 1947. School Cross-Country team, 1948; House 2nd XI
• cricket, 2nd XI soccer, 2nd XV Rugger, P. T. team, swimming team; Corporal
A.T.C.;
Dramatic Society; Debating Society; School Cert. ‘48. To National Coal Board.
R. L. Hussey.—Entered 1943. House 1st XV Rugger, Cross-Country team; House
Dramatics; School Cert. (Matric. Exemp.), 1948. To Paper Mill.
J. R. Lynn.—Entered 1945. House 2nd Xl soccer, 2nd XV Rugger, A.T.C. To
National Coal Board.
A. 3. Davey.—Entered 1943. Arts and Crafts; Geographical Society; School Cert.
(Matnic. Exemp.), 1948. To Sittingbourne Paper Mill.
D. T. Webster.—Entered 1946. House 2nd XI soccer, 2nd XV Rugger; A.T.C.;
House Dramatics; Choir; School Cert., 1948. To Drawing Office, London.
A. B. Jenkins.—Entered 1945. House 1st XV Rugger, 1st XI soccer; Arts and
Crafts; School Cert., 1948. Electricity apprentice.
3. B. Burke—Entered 1945. Philatehic Society; Geography Society; School Cert.,
1948. Clerk, StihIwehl and Harby’s.
E. G.• Steggles.—Entered 1945. Corporal, A.T.C.; Choir; Arts and Crafts; School
Cert., 1948. To Electricity Department.
B. C. Jouvenat.—Entered 1946. School 2nd XI soccer, 1948; House 2nd Xl cricket;
Chess Chub; Philatelic Society; School Cert. (Matric. Exemp.), 1948.
C. C. Spencer.—Entered 1943. House 2nd Xl cricket; School Cert., 1948. To
Agriculture.
A. S. Conyers.—Entered 1946. House 1st XV Rugger, 2nd XI soccer, 2nd XI
cricket. Merchant Navy Training.
E. 3. Scanes.—Entered 1945. House 2nd XI soccer, 2nd XV Rugger; Arts and
Crafts: School Cert., 1948. Apprenticed to Vickers-Armstrong Aircraft Factory.
R. Evans.—Entered 1946. House 2nd XV Rugger; Geographical Society; Dramatic
Society: Choir, Orchestra; Chess Club; School Cert. (Matric. Exemp.), 1948. To
British Railways, Dorking.
J. Hughes.—Entered 1945. School 2nd XV Rugger, House 2nd XI soccer, 2nd Xi
cricket, P.T. team, Cross-Country team; Dramatic Society; School Cert., 1948.
C. Q. Stiles.—Entered 1945. Dramatic Society; Debating Society; Dental Mechanic,
Folkestone.
B. 3. Crush.—Entcred 1945. School 1st XI cricket, 1947-48 (Colours 1948), School
2nd Xl soccer, 1947-48. House 1st XV Rugger, P.T. team; Choir; Cadets: School
Cert.. 1948. To British Railways, Clerk.
M. .1. Igglesden.—Entered 1945. Arts and Crafts. To Army.
K. F. Pascall.—Entered 1944. School Colts XI, soccer, 1948; Cadets; Dramatic
Society. Apprentice Elect.
C. C. Saunders.—Enteted 1946. School 2nd XI cricket, 1948; 2nd XV Rugger,
i949: House 2nd XI soccer. To H.M.S. “Worcester.”
C. R. Johnson.—Entered 1946. Chess Club; Geography Society. To Australia.
P. B. Rohinson.—Entered 1945. A.T.C.; Arts and Crafts. To Agriculture.
B. D. L. Alexander.—Entered 1948. School Colts XI soccer, 1948. Transferred.
R. 3. lanssens.—Entered 1948. Returned to Belgium.
II. P. Green.—Entered 1945. School Colts XI soccer, 1948; Arts and Crafts.
Transferred to Folkestone.
E. L. Brode.—Entered 1946. Transferred to Wales.
T. G. Johnson.—Entered 1945.
A. 3. Miller.—Entered 1944.
K. Evans.—Entered 1947. School Junior XI cricket, 1948; Choir; Orchestra.
Transferred to Hull.
G. T. R. Allen.—Entered 1948. Transferred.
D. R. Alexander.—Entered 1948. Transferred.
W. K. MacPherson.—Entered 1948. Left Dover.
