No. 119. SPRING, 1955. VOL. XLVI.

FIAT LUX.

==EDITORIAL.==

It has been our policy in the past to include, as far as is possible, an equal number of prose and verse articles in the Magazine Section. We still adhere to this opinion, but, despite an increase in the size of this particular section, we find several anomalies. The majority of poems come from the juniors, who produce far more than any other section of the School. Perhaps the seniors would take to writing verse, for even failure in this sphere increases our appreciation of the Master Poets. We request, further, that contributors balance their articles, which at the moment are either too serious on the one hand or too farcical on the other. Since the editors are already a well read "Aunt Sally," you might well prevent us from being charged either with stodginess or frivolity.

We have received a number of articles which we have decided, for various reasons, to retain for consideration until the next issue is being prepared. These came mainly from the junior school, and we hope that those concerned will not feel that their work has been passed over.

J.W.D.
B. S.

IN BRIEF

During last term Mr. G. A. Hoskings gave a lecture to the senior school on ''The Race Problems in South Africa."

Back issues of "The Pharos" are available, price 1/6.

The next edition of the magazine will be published in September. Articles should be submitted by the end of June.

MAGAZINE SECTION
A GOOD TWIST

I sit slowly down, my burden dragging my spirit downwards to despair. My burden?—to write an article for the school magazine. This stupendous task is not even done voluntarily, but is forced upon my troubled shoulders as English homework.

Resigning myself, I begin to write in the systematic, logical way of a Fifth Former—from the end.

It occurs to me that I cannot end something I have not thought of. (Notice the brilliant logic of this statement.)

I have now reached the crux of the matter—what to write about? I consider taking an article from an old "Pharos," re-writing it, and hoping no one will notice. I have, however, a conscience, and give up this idea as I have not an old enough copy of the magazine.

Further fruitless minutes of pondering pass, and then dimly to my mind comes an idea. Why not write about writing an article about writing—please return to the beginning.

S. GARROW, U.V.

OLIVER CRUMBWELL'S RISE TO FAME
(A History Lesson)

In the year 1645, or somewhere around that time, a little man was in bed with a severe chill. He was a farmer by the name of Oliver Numbskull. He lived in the village of Little Nether Wallop, or perhaps it was Big Nether Wallop. Anyway, it was one of the Wallops. He was a weedy fellow, and when the doctor saw him he said "Are you well, Crumb?" These words were destined to change the history of England, and now I will tell you how.

Trouble was brewing between Parliament and Barmy Prince Charles I, and Oliver Numbskull wanted to make a name for himself in the Parliamentary army. First, however, he had to toughen up, so he took twelve easy courses of Dynamic Tension with Charles Atlas, and soon he set himself off on his adventures.

One night he came upon a herdsman's cottage, and the lady of the house told Numbskull to watch some cakes. Oliver sat by the hearth and primed his pistols. Alas, the cakes got burnt! Fearing the consequences, he fled and rested in a cave. There he saw a spider trying to make a cobweb; it failed seven times, so Numbskull lent it a needle and cotton. It was then that Numbskull had a brainstorm, or perhaps it was just a wave; anyway, he decided to change his name from Numbskull to Crumbwell.

He soon met up with the Parliamentary Army, and became an officer. From then on he prospered greatly, and was put in charge of sixty Shetland ponies. When he became a Captain he was invited to Parliament. There he put forward the idea of having a pin-up army. His command soon grew from sixty ponies to two thousand thoroughbred horses.

He became even more than a match for Prince Rupert's Army, and the Gay Cavaliers became quite miserable. After many bitter battles, Barmy Prince Charlie was executed, and Crumbwell ruled the "Rump." This is another way of saying he rooled the roost. Anyway, the "Rump" were not very loyal subjects, so Crumbwell took a platoon of Roundheads and Oblong Faces to the Houses of Parliament. He collected the rent (which was long overdue), praised their taste in wallpaper and "baubles," and then threw them out. A local wit chalked up, "This house to let, now unfurnished."

Soon after Crumbwell became Lord Protector, and made a good job of protecting all the Lords from Land's End to John O'Groats. One day he lost his hat, so Parliament clubbed together and bought him a crown, but it was too big. Anyway, he was given a throne and a Sword of State for consolation.

D. DA COSTA, M.III.

LEFT LUGGAGE

THE TRAMP

THE GOODWIN SANDS

For centuries the Goodwin Sands have formed one of the greatest dangers to shipping round the coast of Britain. They have often been called the "Ship Swallower" There is a strong belief that the Sands got their name from the Earl of Godwin, who used to live on them.

Years ago, when several attempts were made to place a buoy on them, acorns and branches of trees were found. Unfortunately, none of these attempts were successful; the longest a buoy withstood the shifting sand and the waves was four years.

It is possible to walk on parts of the Goodwins at low tide, but immediately the water rises the Sands quiver, and it is advisable to move very quickly, otherwise one's feet sink in. One moment the sea around the Sands is like a mill pond, the next moment like a mass of raging surf.

Nobody knows how many ships have suffered on the Goodwins. Many great vessels have been lost, one being the "Silvia Onoratio," which struck the Sands in January, 1948. All the crew of 48 were taken off by the Walmer lifeboat, "Charles Dibden." Unfortunately, one of the rescued died later.

There is also an account of several R.N. ships being blown on to the Sands as early as November, 1703. In those days the Deal boatmen launched what were called Deal luggers. Three of them headed towards the Goodwins. When they reached the Sands there were only a few survivors. These they bundled into the luggers and raced for shore, the coxswain at that time being Simon Pritchard.

Another more recent victim was the "Santagata," which broke completely in half; but all were saved by the Walmer lifeboat.

The latest tragedy of these treacherous Sands was the South Goodwin Lightship, which broke her cable in the worst gale for 30 years.

J. E. LONGDEN, L.III.

CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS

DOVER TUGS

Dover Harbour Board owns two tugs, the "Lady Brassy" and the "Lady Duncannon." Both are manned by a complement of nine men. They carry fire-fighting equipment, and large salvage pumps for pumping out vessels which have had a collision, or are in danger of going down, or have been on the Goodwin Sands.

They are on call night and day in any weather, and are always ready at a moment's notice to help any ship of any nationality needing assistance. Whenever a vessel has a breakdown through collision, fault in the machinery, or any other cause, and the vessel is out of control, a distress call is sent out by radio, if possible, or by any other available means. This is picked up by a land station or by another vessel and passed on to the tugs. Sometimes the ship in trouble is able to send a message direct to the tugs, calling for immediate assistance. The tugs then put to sea. In these circumstances the ship's position can be placed, even in a thick fog. When the vessel has been found, towing ropes are made fast, and the ship is taken to harbour, or, if it is too severely damaged, to the nearest shore and beached so that temporary repairs can be carried out. The ship is then re-floated and taken into dock.

Some of their work is towing shipping in harbour, especially helping British Railways train ferries into the ferry dock, and embarking and disembarking passengers, stores, mail, and equipment to and from large ships when they call from foreign parts or are proceeding to foreign parts. During dredging operations in the harbour the tugs tow the barges to the spoiling grounds outside the harbour.

D. STUBBS, U.II.

DARKEST STAAFRUMANIA

STORM-STAYED

The interior of the ruins was open to the watery sky, and green grass peeped from between the cracked and worn stones of a past age. My mind wandered over the scene, and then a sudden gust of cold wind and a squall of rain whipped my body back into the present. I slipped and stumbled over the great lumps of granite, and at last found a sheltered corner and waited. The wind moaned through the gaps in the wall, awakening eerie thoughts of the supernatural. The rain formed rivulets among the stones, cascaded down the grey steps, and leapt out of sight for an instant, only to re-appear, this time a rich brown colour; or again it would suddenly enter upon the path of a draught of wind and would be sprayed into oblivion. A sodden piece of paper, left by some careless visitor, suddenly whirled into the air and danced as a shapeless marionette for a few moments before dropping to earth again. I looked towards the sky, but nowhere could I see a boundary to the great, purple mass that hung above my head, and through which Thor not infrequently voiced his anger.

E. ROBERTS, U.V.

Drawing by R. BOLTON.

DRAKE AND THE ARMADA

THE ROBIN

THE WORTHY GAME OF——

1. Cricket. Twenty-two players are required for this game, but only thirteen play at a time. The other nine sit in the pavilion and do nothing, sometimes for hours on end. A game may last for half an afternoon or for several days—according to the importance of the match. Thus, the less important the match is the faster the play, the more exhilarating the game—and there will probably be about fifteen spectators. In big matches, 40,000 people will sit for days and Watch nothing happening at all.

Cricket is played with a hard ball, and it is part of the technique of the batter, or defender, to interpose his legs from time to time, as the occasion demands, with such dexterity that the ball strikes them, and the bowler, or attacker, is thereby thwarted in his purpose. If, however, the batter is struck by the ball contrary to his own desire to be so struck, that is not cricket, and a meeting of the British Cabinet is probably summoned to discuss the grave situation that has arisen. So much for cricket.

2. Football. There are two types of football, one played with a large round leather ball and the other with a large oval leather ball. One is called soccer, the other rugger. Many admirable young men play both games, but for some strange reason the rugger boys regard the soccer boys as inferior beings. The main features of rugger are the "hand-off," which is a fast upper-cut to the chin, and the tackle, which consists of seizing your adversary and throwing him violently to the ground so that your colleagues and playmates may stand upon his face. They do this with great zest and heavy boots.

3. Golf. The implements of this game are a small white ball and a number of rods with noses attached to them. The rods and the noses may be of metal or wood, as you please. The object is to strike the ball as far as possible in a given direction, to walk slowly after it and strike it again, and ultimately pop it into a small hole in the ground. Then it is extracted, and the game begins again, until the ball of each player has been popped eighteen times into eighteen holes in the ground. The number of strokes required for the eighteen "pops," so to speak, is then reckoned up, and the players return to the club-house and tell lies about their own score. After a hearty lunch, the players often go out again and repeat the performance, thus covering seven or eight miles at a slow walk in the course of a day. Without his implements, no golfer would dream of walking 200 yards.

B. J. DOWLE, L.VI, Arts.

Drawing by J. MOUSEDALE

MINE

MY LITTLE ORANGE TREE

THE ECUMENICAL MOVEMENT

The motto of a famous London bank, "Vis Unita Fortior," should be remembered. It is the principle of the whole Ecumenical Movement: the faith of those who work for Church Unity. The name "Ecumenical" is derived from a Greek word meaning "World Wide." The Ecumenical Movement is just that.

The problem of Church Unity enters every sphere of life—evangelica1, philosophical, political, local, and personal. In Dover, for example, you will find a number of Churches, some near each other, which have great difficulty in adequately financing themselves. Economically, and, I am sure, spiritually, it would splendid for these small congregations to unite, and build one or two flourishing Churches.

It is in the mission field, however, that disunity is most strongly felt. Bishop Azariah, of India, emphasised the remarks of certain natives, who said: "We are united in Hinduism: we shall become divided in Christianity." Even we are much perplexed when seeing Baptist, Methodist, Congregationalist, Anglican, and Roman Catholic before our eyes. What is the native to do?

Not only is united Christian witness needed to combat the pagan and anti-Christian religions in the world to-day, but it is needed to combat political strife that threatens our cherished hopes and ideals. In spite of the cynics, the Church can play its part in promoting world peace. Greater understanding can be attained between East and West if the tables of the World Council of Churches are thumped.

Lastly, a Christian cannot tolerate disunity. The essence of Christianity is love, which brings people together. Christians are separated. The Church is the body of Christ, but if the executive, or physical, body is injured its work cannot be carried out. The Christian must, in fact, denounce disunity as a sin.

This perplexing problem of disunity began in the misty ages of the Eleventh Century, when the one Church divided into the Roman Catholic and the Eastern Orthodox. The Reformation split the Western Church further, and the Protestants later sub-divided again and again until the host of evangelical free Churches that we now know was formed.

It is, however, "the great new fact of our era" that a world-wide movement towards Church unity has begun. This movement finds expression in the World Council of Churches, which was formed at Amsterdam in 1948 and held its second assembly at Evanston, U.S.A:, in the summer of 1954.

This World Council does much worthy work, but quite quietly. Few people know, for example, that the Council works very closely with the International Refugee Organisation. The Council is also attached to U.N.E.S.C.O. and F.A.O. The Church enters into other political life as well. It framed a clause of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, denounced the Korean war as an act of aggression, and has condemned all forms of racial segregation. Moreover, a committee was appointed to find a means of helping to solve the problem.

Another particularly interesting aspect of the Council's work is the responsibility of the Youth Section. Youth all over the world has collaborated to find praiseworthy Christian witness. In 1953 there were 29 Ecumenical Work Camps in eight countries in Europe, in the Philippines, Japan, Thailand, Malaya, and in North and Central America. A Swedish camp, besides building a bell tower, broke through a deadlock that had lasted nineteen years. Permission to build a Church was at last achieved, and the campers had the foundations dug before they left. Local people, previously indifferent, now gather for prayers around the bell tower, and are continuing to build the Church themselves.

People to-day are fond of accusing the Church of being sleepy, but this certainly shows that at least some quarters of the Church are extremely wide-awake.

J. W. G. HOGBIN, U.VI Arts.

"125" GLIDING SCHOOL

The weather was fine as we left the train from Dover at Charing Cross and made our way to the close-by tube station. The only thing in mind that day was to get to Langley. Probably this means as little to most readers as it did to us on first hearing the name. The two of us were looking for an airfield near Langley, hardly a thing which would take much looking for—or so we thought.

We were looking for an R.A.F. field, and so kept asking for it in vain, for, as we later learned, it was owned by the Hawker Aircraft Company. After using our tongues for a long time, we finally put our eyes to better use, and saw what we had been looking, for—a glider. It must have been 1,000 feet up, and since we had travelled this distance for a week's gliding course it filled us with hope. We walked several miles, or so it seemed, carrying case and great coat, and after passing a long row of mighty hangers and workshops we eventually came to two smaller buildings, about 400 yards farther on. One of these was a small blister hanger, and the other a Nissen hut. I shall never forget them, for these were the centre of the R.A.F. Cadet Corps.

Some Cadets had just finished their course and were leaving, but we soon mixed in with the other thirteen who were there. We did not start gliding that day (it was Sunday), but went by lorry to Hendon R.A.F. Station, where we were to sleep and have two meals a day. We were issued with blankets and soon settled down, in spite of the so-called "pillows" we had to sleep on.

The next morning we were to be picked up by truck at 8.15 hours, so we did not have to crawl out of bed at some unearthly hour like 6.30. We had breakfast before we left and took a packed lunch to eat in the day, as we would not get back to Hendon before 9.30 that evening. It was quite a distance to Langley, but as soon as we arrived we got to know our instructors, and were shown how to handle the gliders while they were still on the ground. All instruction was practical, and there was no pen and paper work. We learned how and where to lift gliders, how to attach the launching cables, how to park gliders in winds of varying strength, and how to use the lamp to give correct signals.

Our first flight was with an instructor, whom we would have for the whole week, in a "Sedburgh," in which we sat abreast with dual controls. On the first flight it was just a matter of being shown turning points on the circuit, a windsock, small hanger, alloy factory, etc., and getting used to powerless flight. The turning points were so situated as to give a right-hand circuit and a left-hand circuit. After this we really got down to the business of learning to fly the gliders.

Still in the Sedburgh, we learned the handling of the controls and safety altitudes for turning, and when we had had several flights under these conditions we transferred to a Mk. III, in which instructor and pupil sit in tandem with the pupil in front. Under these methods the controls in normal flight are mastered. For the next step in training we once more went back to the Sedburgh. On attaining a height of about 1,000 feet, the instructor purposely stalls the glider and shows the pupil how to come out of it so as to prevent a series of stalls which otherwise follow successively, creating a series of "ups and downs." The pupil then tries his hand at it until the instructor is sure that if the need arises the pupil will be safe if the height is sufficient to allow normal procedure. Spins are then done in the same way, although only incipient spins are possible under normal conditions in a Sedburgh.

Eventually the instructor considers his disciple fit for solo flight, and he later has to take a different instructor for a flight in a Mk. III, in which he will take his solos. As the pupil is in front of the instructor, he cannot see his "passenger," who often, to the amusement of those on the ground, flaps his arms out of the side to show that the Cadet is taking the flight virtually on his own. If the O.K. is given the Cadet then goes solo. At low levels it is possible to hear the Cadet in the glider talking to himself as he repeats certain instructions which have been passed on to him.

On my own solos I achieved a height of around 1,000 feet each time, and with the extra height then needed for the completion of the circuit additional touches could be put in, like 360° turns and "S" turns. To gain one's certificate thirty flights have to be accomplished, including at least three solos. Still having a few flights to fill in, I went up with the instructors for aerobatics, on one flight alone doing five loops and a stall turn.

The gliders were launched with a winch and a mile of cable. The glider was winched along the ground on the cable and the cable released from the glider at maximum height.

This is no place to put down all the laws to be appreciated when gliding, but I advise any R.A.F. Cadet who has the chance to glide to jump at it.

R. J. RICHHARDS, L.VI Science.

THE HISTORY OF OUR BIBLE

The question of how we got our Bible is a very wide one, and a full answer should tell of all its sources and how the ancient manuscripts came to be separated from other writings as inspired and collected into a Holy Bible.

The first manuscripts have all been lost through various persecutions and wars. All the originals were written by hand, and copies were needed by all the growing Churches, and these had to be produced at great expense of time and trouble. Further, however careful a copyist might be, it was almost impossible for him to prevent the occurrence of errors and mistakes. For example, he might, after writing in the last Word of one line, catch, on looking up, the same word at the end of the next line, and he would omit the entire line in between. Hundreds of years later another man copies the mistakes and adds some more of his own.

Determining the age of a manuscript is a very intricate business. The form of the letters is the chief guide; the oldest were written in capitals, and the scribes, in order to save space, left no gap, between words. They also omitted M's and N's at the end of words and marked the omission by a line over the previous letter.

The most ancient existing Bible is in the Vatican in Rome, the pages measuring 15ft. x 13½in. A tenth-century scribe has inked over some words he thought were fading, but which are still visible to-day.

The Sinaitic manuscript was found in a convent at the foot of Mount Sinai by a German whose whole life was dedicated to this type of work. The manuscript is one of the three oldest still in existence.

Let us now trace the development of the English Authorised Version. The change from the Anglo-Saxon to the English language was a very gradual one. It began about the year 1250, and it was towards the end of the fourteenth century when English became the literary language. Wycliffe's was the first Bible which was used among the English people. This was published in 1383. Wycliffe went through great trials, but he stuck to his teaching, and did a tremendous work in translating the whole of the Bible into the new language.

Now we come to Erasmus, a Greek scholar, who gave to the world his famous New Testament, and then to Tyndale, another Greek scholar, who determined that the English people, both rich and poor, should have the Scriptures available in English. He set to work in secret and managed to get them to the press, but one of the printers let the secret out to a priest, who became suspicious and gave information to the magistrate. Tyndale, being warned immediately, collected his manuscripts and escaped to Worms, and there, realising that all ports would be watched, printed them in a smaller size and packed them in barrels, cases, bales of cloth, and sacks of flour, in every conceivable place that he could think of. By this method he sent to England over six thousand copies. In the margins, Tyndale added a commentary. Three years after, every church had a Bible. This was referred to as "The Great Bible of 1539." Twenty years later, when Elizabeth came to the throne, she gave thanks for it and kissed the Bible.

In January, 1604, a conference of Bishops and Clergy was held under King James himself to discuss two current translations. From this we got our "King James's Version" or the "Authorised Version." In 1540 the Book was divided into chapters, and until 1611 there were still none of the short summaries at the beginnings of each chapter in the Authorised Version, but in this year these headings were added for the sake of reference.

The first complete Revised Version was published in 1885, and this has been improved many times, even as late as 1950.

G. R. LOCKS, M.IV.

IMPRESSIONS OF CANADA

This summer I was enabled by a grant from the Hugh Leney (Travelling) Scholarship Fund to accompany a group of students representing the Commonwealth Youth Movement on a five-week visit to Canada. During that time we were able to cross the Dominion to Vancouver and Victoria, with stops at Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Regina, Calgary, and Banff. Thus we were given the chance to meet Canadians from all parts of the country, and to form some impression of their way of life.

The influence of the United States is apparent everywhere, but only superficially. In Toronto and the prairie cities the cars, the accents, the skyscrapers, and the hamburger stalls could convince one that by mistake one had wandered over the border. Except in the "English" Victoria and the "French" Quebec, the way of life of Canadians is closely akin to that of the United States.

But in many ways Canadians think more like Englishmen than like Americans. Many of their institutions are based on ours, and their regard for England is much more than a sentimental affection for the "Old Country." This is most marked on the west coast; but everywhere Canadians have a fervent loyalty to the Crown which makes ours seem lukewarm by comparison.

Canada is already a prosperous country, and her abundance of newly-discovered natural wealth ensures that her prosperity will continue well into the future. Wages are extraordinarily high (a Toronto 'bus driver told me he earned $400 a month, and many University students earn $320 a month during their holidays), and, though prices are, of course, higher than our own, the average standard of living remains far higher than that of England. The influence of the United States tends to make Canadians materialistic, and consequently much of their wealth tends to take the form of a new and larger car every year. To a certain extent, however, this is an inevitable fault of youth, and the appearance of high cultural standards will probably be only a matter of time.

In view of the enormous natural wealth of the country, Canada is at present mostly under-populated. Her need is for skilled workmen, and until she can train her own she will have to draw them from abroad, and England is the first source of supply. The prospects for a fully-trained Englishman are thus excellent, but he must be prepared to settle down in Canada.

He will find himself amongst people whose generosity and kindness made our five short weeks in Canada an experience to be remembered for the rest of our lives. We saw most of the "sights" of Canada, the St. Lawrence, the Ontario Lake Country, the Rockies, and the Fraser Canyons; we saw the Mile and the Marathon at the Empire Games, and we were entertained royally wherever we went; but the lasting memory which we took home was of kindness and generosity, which, though already a legend, was unlike anything we dared expect.

J. G. WATERS, Ex-U.VI Econ.

SPEECH DAY, 1954

Speech Day this year followed the traditional pattern. After a short speech by the Chairman, the Rev. A. Stanley Cooper. B.Sc., the Headmaster gave his report, in which he mentioned the many activities which made up the life of the School, and the achievements that had marked the year.

After the distribution of the prizes and certificates by Mrs. Garland, the Speech Day Address was given by a distinguished Old Boy. Prof. H. B. Garland, M.A., Ph.D., Vice-Principal of the University College of the South-West, Exeter.

Prof. Garland briefly outlined his own schooldays, and said he felt sure that the School was maintaining that high standard which had marked it in the past, and which he, for one, had learned to appreciate even more as the years passed by Speaking of Speech Day itself, Prof. Garland said that he had no sympathy with the idea, frequently expressed as a sop for non-prize winners, that there were insufficient prizes for all. He urged, rather, that all should strive hard, so that a prize might be gained next time.

That an Old Boy should be retrospective was inevitable, but Prof. Garland said he was bound also to look forward and offer advice for the future. It was up to all boys to find a job in which they would best be serviceable and that, above all, they would enjoy.

A vote of thanks to Prof. Garland was proposed by Capt. F. R. Powell and seconded by Mr. G. F. Cheeseman, while Mr. F. J. Rhodes proposed the vote of thanks to the Chairman, which was seconded by T. D. Heaver, the School Captain. The Choir, conducted by Mr. Dale, sang five songs.

Prize Awards, 1953-54

PRESENTATION CUPS

House Challenge Shield—Frith House (House Master, Mr. W. H. Jacques; House Captain., R. S. West).
Ebbw Vale Rugby Cup—Frith House.
The Tunnell Memorial Sports Cup—G. R. Piggott.
Senior Championship Trophy—G. R. Piggott.
Intermediate Championship Trophy (given by Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Rhodes)— L. Lees.
Junior Championship Trophy—J. P. Allingham.

LE BARBIER DE SEVILLE

Il est peu de comèdies aussi representatives de l'esprit français du 18^eme siécle, que "Le Barbier de Sèville." La Troupe Française a doue étè heureusement inspirée en incrivant à son programme cette comèdie de Beaumarchais, à laquelle nous avons en le plaisir d'assister au cours du trimestre d'automne.

L'intrigue de la pièce est des plus classiques, et la valeur principale de cette œuuvre, réside dans les mots d'esprit, le dialogue alerte et la fine satire qui s'y cache, ainsi que dans une peinture amusante des caractères. Si comique il ya, c'est un comique de mots: il n'y a pas de bouffoneries dans cette pièce, contrairement à beaucoup de comèdies de Molière, par example.

Il eu rèsulte douc, que beaucoup de traits amusants ont pu éclaper à l'auditoire, la difficulté du language constituant un serieux handicap.

Handicap éqalement, la pauvreté des décors unis à la disposition des acteurs. Ceux-ci cependant ficent de leur mieux pour pallier à cette insoffisance de mise en scéne.

Monsieur René Cardona, dans le rôle du Comte Almaviva fit de son mieux pour donner l'idée d'un grand Seigneur amoureux, mais habitué au libertinage et méprisant profondement le bourgeois et la valetaille facilement corrompue par l'argent.

Une mention spèciale à mon avis, peut être donnèe à Messieurs Eric Landun dans le rôle de Bartholo, et Jean Rougene dans celui de Don Basile.

Le premier sut être à la fois le tuteur jaloux et ridicule, le barbon amoureux et meficut, mais aussi le vieillant fort de son droit, ridiculisé dans sa propre maison et depossèdé de son bien par un rival plus jeune, plus riche et abusant du pouvoir que lui conferé son titre.

Basile, Jean Rougene, avais un rôle moins chargé, mais ses trop pen frequentes entrees un scène, furent à chaque fois salvèes de rires et d'applaudissements. Il est certain qu'il réussit a composer un personnage vraiment grotesque.

Madame Ochile Calvet, Rosine, fut une ingènue subtile et avisée, mais elle exagèra peut-être un peu trop, ses crises de larmes et ses faux èvanouissements.

A mon avis le caractère de Figaro, un des plus important de la pièce, ne fut pas bien rendu. Monsieur Jarton Richer, malgré d'indeniables qualités de comédien, manqua de vivacité dans les repliques, il ne sut pas y mettre la légéreté, la bonne humeur que ce caractére implique.

Eu dépit de cela, production correcte dans l'ensemble de la part des acteurs, et compte-tenu de l'insuffisance des décors, je crois que nous pouvons considerer avoir assisté à une excellente représentation.

SCHOOL'S ECONOMIC CONFERENCE

On the 21st September, 1954, a party from the School attended the Annual Schools' Economic Conference, held in the Beveridge Hall of Senate House, the administrative centre of London University. Although there was a very mixed audience, we were the only representatives from schools outside the Metropolis.

Prof. J. E. Meade lectured on "The Problems of Economic Union." Most of his illustrations were of specific difficulties encountered by the Benelux Union since its conception in 1948, problems which were dealt with clearly and always in an interesting fashion. Later Prof. Meade answered questions, which, however, came mainly from the teachers accompanying the various schools. The only critical question was that whereas the part played by B.E. and N.E. in the economic union had been fully dealt with, there had been very little reference to L.U.X. Prof. Meade, in reply, admitted that his knowledge concerning Luxembourg was very superficial, for which he apologised, and promised that as soon as the books on the subject became available he would rectify this weakness.

The second part of the morning discussion was between a director, a works manager, and a manager of the Midland Bank, on "Economics in Action.". This was no doubt excellent and very interesting to a practical business man, but, unfortunately, for us it seemed to drag on and on without reaching any particular conclusion. The questions at the end were nearly all concerned with doubts over particular details of management, and were usually of little interest to any but the questioner.

The Brains Trust in the afternoon was, however, the highlight of the day. There were two M.P.s on the team, a bill broker, and a lecturer from the City of London College. Questions had been submitted during the morning, and these were put to the team by the chairman, an industrialist. Many were obviously posed to start political wrangles, and unfortunately they succeeded. Both M.P.s had all the answers at their finger-tips, and were clearly used to arguing along parallel lines of thought. The prevailing light-hearted atmosphere showed in the spontaneous applause for the many little slights which the M.P.s threw at each other, such as, "He may be able to get away with that in East Fulham, but . . ." Fortunately for all concerned, the bill broker had a rare wit, and his timely interjections often brought the proceedings from a pure jeering political brawl down to at least a level of sanity, while the searching logic of the college lecturer frequently had the last word, and brought many a question to a satisfactory conclusion.

But perhaps the climax of the afternoon for us was the answering of the question submitted by I. C. Jarvie, "Can the team suggest a solution to the frustration caused by over-taxation and the over-provision of social services? Both M.P.s really pounced upon this, and completely refuted any suggestion that there was over-provision of social services when there were still hospitals, schools, etc., to be built. High taxation coincident with the supply of these services. The team did not, however give any solution for over-taxation—presumably they were not feeling frustrated.

Thus ended, for us, a very enjoyable day, and the Conference was brought to a close by a résumé on the "Lessons of the Conference."

C. C. M.
R.J.H.O.

FIELD WORK
An Account of a Sixth Form Geographical Jaunt

On Monday, December 20th, nearly all the Sixth Form geographers, with one tame biologist, departed on what is known in higher geographical circles as field work.

The party, variously disguised, assembled in the mists of Capel at about 10 a.m., and surveyed the geology of the Warren. Here the sea's assaults upon the underlying clay have weakened the chalk and caused land-slips. By means of sea walls and concrete aprons the railway protects its line from further marine erosion, but wintry weather still causes cliff fails that at times endanger traffic.

The party took note of the Lenham beds, bright red sandy soils on top of the chalk in the Capel district, as they walked along the top of the escarpment overlooking Folkestone. Study was made of natural vegetation and farming practices, and special attention was given to the out-lying, conical chalk hill-masses that are left by the recession of the escarpment. Folkestone water-works make use of water emerging from the spring-line at the chalk base, and brick-works could be seen using the gault clay as their raw material.

Continuing along the summit of the scarp to the north of Cheriton, the leader was emboldened by sunshine and the apparent rude health and goodwill of his disciples to strike inland across the chalk plateau to the Elham Valley. This was quite a forced march, and at the village of Etchinghill the party subsided on seats plainly marked "For use of hospital inmates only."

Refreshed after a brief survey of village institutions, the group took up their cases, portfolios, cameras, and field glasses, and marched in a generally southerly direction so as to descend by a gap from the chalk country and cross the wooded and, at that time, water-logged vale of the gault clay. This was barely half a mile in width, and the long, steady climb of the sandstone slope then opened the party out. They assembled at about 3 p.m. by Lympne Church, where none can have failed to enjoy the beauty of a winter's sun across the marshland. Equally certainly, none can have emerged unscathed from the descent of a cataract down the old cliff-face, literally scattered with barbed-wire entanglements, outcrops of Kentish rag-stone, ancient monuments, and rotting boards.

As far as is known, all succeeded in reaching Hythe before nightfall, bearing generous samples of local soils upon their persons. Estimates of the total mileage covered vary according to temperament and physical condition, but all are prepared to go on another such venture after three months' recuperation.

Drawing by R. BOLTON

C.C.F. NOTES

R.N. Section

The summer holidays were a period of great activity. All Cadets took part in at least one week's training. Twenty-nine boys spent a week on board H.M.S. Vanguard in Portsmouth. This included trips to H.M.S. Dolphin (Submarine Base), H.M.S. Hornet (M.T.B. Base), and H.M.S. Excellent (the Naval Gunnery School). The week ended with a regatta, in which we were quite successful.

Later two parties attended a Naval Aviation Course at Lee-on-Solent. In addition to lectures on such subjects as air-sea rescue, air gunnery, and photography, most Cadets had over an hour's flying. All Naval Cadets on this course received air badges.

Since the holidays work has been in preparation for Proficiency Tests Parts I and II. In recent examinations 12 Cadets passed Part I and four Cadets set a high standard in Part II.

In addition to the cutter, which we are now overhauling for the summer, a Heron class dinghy is being built by Cadets in the woodwork shop.

Army Section

Although we are still the smallest of the three Sections, we have worked steadily throughout the term, with the aim of taking Certificate A Part II during next term. We have been ably taught by an instructor from the Royal East Kent's (The Buffs) Depot at Canterbury, to whom we are grateful.

During the Christmas holidays the N.C.O.s are attending an instructors course at the Royal West Kent's Depot at Maidstone.

L. T. (Sg.).

R.A.F. Section (Photo)

This Section is now 41 strong, but after the Certificate A Part I examination in February it is hoped that the force will be somewhat increased.

From July 27th to August 3rd a record number of Cadets enjoyed the lectures and classes laid on for them by the R.A.F. at Dyce, Aberdeen. A "map-reading exercise," along the valley of the Dee to Braemar and back was organised, and most Cadets had about 25 minutes' flying in Chipmunks.

Fourteen more Cadets are to be congratulated on gaining Proficiency Certificates in the July examinations.

To those now belonging to the R.A.F. Section, and to those who hope to join it, I should like to stress the importance of smart turn-out and regular attendance. R.A.F. Cadets have certainly not been exerting themselves this term, and to uphold the reputation of the R.A.F. we must improve ourselves in all respects, as we now have a flourishing Naval Section to contend with, as well as the Army and Basic Units.

A sustained effort by all concerned would once more raise the standards in the R.A.F. to their former level, and keep them there.

D. C. S. (Flt.-Sgt.).

Basic Section

We were unable to arrange a Certificate A examination this term, so we still have 36 Cadets in "A" Squad, besides 49 recruits (mainly from the Third Form) who have joined this term, we hope to hold the examination during February.

Recently the standard of the Certificate A examination was raised, and now the recruits have to show themselves proficient in drill before they can wear their uniforms.

R. B. (Sgt.).

THE P.T. CLUB

At the start of the new school year Mr. Elliott again organised the junior and senior P.T. Clubs. The senior club began with only a half-dozen enthusiasts, but increased its members throughout the term up to about 25.

A new introduction to the club's activities was "Pirates," a strenuous chasing game using the apparatus to keep off the floor.

Three gymnastic badges have been offered this term, to be awarded for certain standards. They are brown, purple, and gold in order of merit. This idea gives members something definite to work for. Unfortunately, the badges have not yet arrived, and one or two boys even doubt their existence. We are, however, all working for them undaunted.

M. G. MCDONNELL.

UNICORN CLUB

Unfortunately it was only possible to hold four meetings last term, as Speech Day fell on one of our Thursdays.

At our first meeting, on October 14th, we held an "Any Questions" session, after electing the committee. Many of the old subjects, such as "school dinners," came up, besides many new ones. The attendance at this meeting was good, and included many First Formers.

The next meeting, being in United Nations Week, concerned this matter, and a talk was given by Mr. Hull. He also showed us a film strip on the work of the Children's Branch, and a sound film about the U.N. Headquarters at Lake Success.

At the third meeting we held three short discussions. The first, on "The Commercialisation of Christmas," was opened by Jarvest, of M. III. The next topic, "The Latest Edition of 'The Pharos'," was opened by Diggens, of U.II. Several new suggestions for our School magazine were made. The third discussion concerned "Horror Comics," and was led by Constable and Padfield, taking opposite sides.

The last meeting this term included two talks, one by Hopkins A., of M.III, on "Model Aeroplanes," and the other by three members of U.II (Piddock, Bayford, and Thompson) on Puppetry. Both talks were good and were illustrated by excellent models.

THE PHOENIX CLUB

Several interesting meetings have been held since the summer, notably "What's the Answer?" during which a number of well-known School personalities gave us a wide selection of their views; a fascinating and liberally illustrated talk by Mr. Dale on "Music and Poetry "; an attack on the British Constitution under the guise of a motion entitled "This House desires a successor to Guy Fawkes "; an illuminating talk by Mr. Murphy on "The Soldier in Literature "; and finally a talk by I. C. Jarvie called "Has modern art gone too far?" Encouraging audiences have been attending regularly this term, but one feels there is still room for more, and all will be very welcome.

CHESS CLUB

Last term the Club could have little cause for satisfaction. The numbers at the Monday evening meetings were never high, although there was considerable interest in the Lower School. Unfortunately a great deal of persuasion is necessary to make anything of this interest. Not many league matches have been played so far, but the competition for the cup kindly presented by the Dover Chess Club is well under way. This would be more interesting, however, if most of those who play chess would come along to the meetings regularly. More boys new to the game would also be welcomed.

Thanks are due to Mr. Smith for suggesting some interesting books on chess which have recently been added to the Library, and which all chess players would find profitable to study, for managing to secure some new sets, of which, it is hoped, good use will be made, and for the keen interest he shows in the Club's activities as a whole.

S.C.M.

It is pleasing to record that membership has approximately doubled since the last report. Boys from every branch of the Sixth Form have attended, and any other boys, from the Fifth and Fourth Forms, who would be interested in our meetings are very welcome. Members have co-operated well, and several talks have been given by boys themselves. The Autumn Term's meetings included

Oct. 20: The Ecumerical Movement. J. Hogbin and D. Doble.

Nov. 3: The Work of U.N.O. (Film Strips).

Nov. 17: Discussion on National Service.

Nov. 24: The South African Race Problem. P. Wyatt and P. Morgan.

Dec. 8: The Oxford Movement J. Dilnot.

Dec.15: The Church of South India. D. Doble. Christmas Readings (contributed by members).

THE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA

Although we lost three most valued members last summer, our numbers have been increased by many young and promising instrumentalists, mostly from the violin class. At the beginning of this school year, two violin classes were started for boys of different standards, and in the Easter Term a 'cello class is to begin. Teachers are supplied by the Kent Rural School of Music, and have excellent qualifications in the instruments they teach. We expect that the playing strength of over twenty will soon be increased by boys from these classes.

In the future we hope to start a wind section, but, unfortunately, the main difficulty is the high cost of these instruments.

It is interesting to note that a quarter of the members have not missed one practice this term. If this continues the Orchestra may look to a bright future.

P. M. TWEDDELL.

THE PUPPET CLUB

Since the last issue of "The Pharos," the Puppet Club has given seven more performances, including a second performance to the Parents' Association, Dr. Barnardo's Box-opening at Folkestone, and the New School at Mongeham. One of the other performances was given to the children in the Bruce Porter Home at Folkestone.

It is time mention was made of the boys who have worked behind the curtain, anonymously, for nearly three years. P. Edwards has made more puppets than any boy in the Club, and is a clever manipulator and impersonator. He also looks after puppets in transit.

D. Constable, D. Shinkfleld, and A. Walter are also skilful manipulators (Shinkfield speaks as well), and have given yeoman service to transporting and assembling the properties, which have been in the charge of A. Walter. D. Constable, in addition to his puppet, has provided a very fine motor-bicycle!

P. B. Castle, who can be relied upon to take the voice of almost any character convincingly (not to mention a parrot), has helped regularly with transport. A. D. Duncan, another invaluable voice, can manipulate when necessary, and has recently joined the transport section, which has to be limited in number.

Amongst the others, J. Ward articulates puppets with skill, while Graves and Wilson have given spirited rendering of the heavier voices.

J. Skelton, as well as manipulating, plays a mouth organ very tunefully.

J. C. Binfield has spoken those parts which require a younger voice with delicacy and distinction.

M. Greenstreet has been our electrician, and J. D. Rowlands has helped behind and even under the stage, and spoken parts when needed.

J. Dadd and L. Triggs have recently joined and are doing useful work. More will be heard of them, and also of a number of more junior puppeteers, who have a play in preparation.

C.R.

LIBRARY NOTES

The Christmas Term saw considerable activity in the Library. The customary large order of books for the term was prepared for circulation, and in addition time was found to do repairs on a few of the many books awaiting repair.

The new books cover a wide range, and it is pleasing to note several additions to the Music and Mathematics Sections. Noteworthy among the new additions are "Archeology from the Earth" (Wheeler), Goodwin's "The French Revolution" Gitting's "Keats: The Living Year," a collection of "Essays in Musical Analysis," by Tovey, and the "Oxford Junior Companion to Music." We are grateful to those boys who have presented books to the Library, in particular to those who presented a book on leaving school.

Much credit is also due to those boys who spend a considerable part of their spare time in helping with the Library work. It is because of them that the Library is able to function smoothly, and we are very grateful for all the work they do.

FOOTBALL
1st XI

The team emerged with a good record, having suffered defeats only its first and last matches The last match was against the Old Boys, to whom the School is always prepared to lose with reasonable grace.

The defence has been above average. Ellis kept goal intelligently, Obree and Marsh have been a hard-working pair of backs, and the halfbacks were the main-stay of the side. Rogers has been both sound and sensible at centre-half, Sutton is full of promise. and Jones was in a class of his own. His career with Coventry City will be watched with interest by all who have had the pleasure of knowing and playing with him.

The forwards have put plenty of effort into every game, but have suffered many variations through injury. They have never made a coherent line. T. D. Heaver, the captain, shot well on occasions, always did his utmost on the field, and was a great asset to the School off the field.

Colours were re-awarded to Heaver, Ellis, Jones, and Rogers, and newly awarded to Marsh and Obree. Others who played were Smith, Standing, Long, Chawner, Dedman, Davidson, Godsmark, Painter, Barrett, and Sutton.

Results:—

2nd XI

While never reaching a particularly impressive standard of football, the 2nd XI usually played with commendable enthusiasm and determination. The team was frequently weakened by calls on its strength, necessitated by injuries to members of the 1st XI, and in the circumstances its record may be considered satisfactory.

C. Marsh proved himself to be an energetic and whole-hearted captain.

Results —

Played, 7; Won, 4; Lost, 3.

Under 15 XI

The team has finished the season "all square," having won two matches, lost two, and drawn one.

Results:—

Won: Ashford G.S., 8—3 and 5—2.

Lost: Deal Secondary, 3—5; Dover Boys, 0—10.

Drawn: Deal Secondary, 8—8.

The strength of the team has been mainly in defence, with Mummery, McCaig, and Thompson playing consistently well. The forwards were at first slow in meeting the ball and in making their passes; but have improved as the season has progressed.
 

Under 14 XI

This season the team has met with limited success, winning three, losing two, and drawing the other. The hardest fought games were against a strong Harvey Grammar School team. The first match ended in a draw, after a fast game, and the return, which was evenly fought, Harvey won by a narrow margin. Goldsack was the main goal-scorer, with a total of nine. He was well supported by Bailey and Hudson. Murrell, who played in goal, started off the season by letting in some easy shots, but he improved in every match. Burkinsher was strong and capable at centre-half, and made a fine captain.

The team was: Burkinsher, Goldsack, Pepper, Bailey, Hudson, Maddison, Jones R., White, Gillie, Golding, and Murrell. Atkins was a regular player till he left the School. E. Jones was twelfth man.
 

Results:—

Home: Harvey, 5; School 5 (Bailey 3, Pepper, White).

Away: Faversham, 2; School, 6 (Pepper, Bailey, Hudson, Maddison, Goldsack 2).

Away: Harvey, 4; School, 3 (Hudson 2, Bailey).

Home: St. Edmund's, 5; School 4 (Bailey 2. Goldsack 2).

Away: Simon Langton's. 1; School, 6 (Bailey 2, Goldsack 2, Hudson 1 own goal).

Home: Simon Langton's, 1; School, 4 (Goldsack 3, Hudson).

Under 13 XI

Although the team's record is not outstanding, there has been a good team spirit. Everyone has played the game hard and enjoyed it. The  defence, unfortunately, was weak, and the attack only average. Periton did well as captain, and other outstanding players were Corry, Reid, Bernard, McManus, and Robinson.

Results:—

Home: Borden Grammar, 3; School. 2.

Away: Ashford, 4; School, 1.

Away: Deal Central, 9; School, 2.

Home: Ashford, 1; School, 1.

FORM NOTES

Upper VI Arts
THE LIBRARY EXPRESS AND U.VI FORM NEWS

Births.—On December 2nd, 1954 (only a coincidence!), to Louis Napoleon and the Form's History Group—Thompson, a brother for Arnaud, Guedalla, and Simpson.

Deaths.—On July 16th. 1954, after much suffering, patiently borne, Current Affairs Lessons.

Apartments to Let.—One police station cell.

Houses and Property—Unfurnished but quite cosy, although in exposed position. Cold water laid on, but only after stormy weather. Reception room three storeys below. Attractive small entrance. A ladder and a duster—and your home is complete. Noisy only first thing in the morning and in the lunch hour.

Personal.—Lessons are offered to Upper VI Science in preventing the exclusion of their Form Notes.

Lost.—Several dancing partners.

Coming Events—At end of term it is hoped to practice circuit training without visiting Gymnasium:

1. Swinging on the lights, touching the wall with your feet each time. Lights reached from shoulders of partner standing on stepladders provided.

2. Press-ups on the tables. Advisable to remove ink wells first.

3. Chins on the window-ledge outside For this exercise one must go through the room below and shin up drainpipe. Care should therefore be taken—especially to avoid being recorded as rainfall by losing one's grip.

4. Bench-stepping on the piano outside door. Perhaps lid should be closed first.

5. Skipping—with Botwinnik's satchel.

6. Trunk curls with feet lodged between the pipes.

This can be followed by a game of basketball with the waste-paper basket. Open window and the Mediterranean village represent baskets.

TOWN, PORT, AND GARRISON

The term opened with calls by three boats, which have remained here for a year's repairs—m.v. "Cantabrian," from Deal, s.s. "Sportsman," from Dover College, and the tug "Air Pilot," from East Langdon.

Temporary visitors included a French ship called "Le Barbier de Seville," which seemed quite an attraction, the liner "UNO," which took back all it had brought with it, and the South African tanker "Naughty Mind."

There was an unfortunate accident recently when a local red-headed athlete caught his head against the railway bridge while running down Crabble Hill in a long-distance race. Stitches were inserted in a cut about 4¾ inches long.

THEY SAY—
        What do they say?

THEY SAY that by the time this "Pharos" is published our notes for the next one will have been written.

THEY SAY that the Old Boys' Secretary might Eclipse Yehudi Zatopek next year.

The Geography Group offers lessons in swimming when fully clothed, and road-walking.

P. T. ARNAUDRACINELIVYPHOBE

(alias P. S. Phile.)

VI Economics:—

Overheard in a corridor:

Rotide: 'Em, just one moment J.

J.: Yes, sir.

R.: Look—don't think I am picking on you—but what would happen if 25 forms all handed in form notes which are as obscure as yours?

J.: Wouldn't we have fun!

R.: No facetiousness, please—just re-write them.

At this tiresome pronouncement one was given

To

Believe that Rotide and his supporters are

Somewhat afraid they will print something

Dreadful. We take this as a challenge

To

Our skill.

Observe Rotide, thorough obscurity complete

With free verse.

THE WASTED LAND
or
THE ECONOMIST'S LAMENTABLE COMPLAINT

1. Burial Alive.

June is the cruellest month, bringing

Examinations of all kinds, mixing

Memory and hope, stirring

Dull boys with summer rain.

2. A Game of Draughts.

Trouble at the canal turn?

But everyone cannot afford a tuxedo.

3. The Fiery Sermon.

I'm just a poor prefect, sirs,

What has to read the lesson.

When told I used to chant and curse

I've since learnt my own lesson!

4. Death by Writing.

Tis the fate that comes to those who

Are foolish enough to

Write magazine articles.

5. What the Lightning Did.

Di di di da dit

Di di di da

Di di di dit

Di di di da dit.

PAX, LUX, SURF.

Upper VI Science:—
Item—Notes (Form). Editor pipe for the lighting of.

Caterham Barracks, Dover.       
2500 hrs. 22nd Dec. 1954.

In September we were moved into a new barrack room down the passage, but it is still in a state of chaos, because the painters have moved in. We sadly announce the passing of our worthy friend, 2nd Lt. Twist-Bust, and consequently British air supremacy (his name appeared in the obituary column of the last edition).

The Regimental H.Q. next to our room is presided over by our Col. Sir Enock Reklaw and his two able W.R.A.F.s, Maisy and Jenny. It has recently been fitted with the latest V.H.F. radio. (We can now hear the Goon Show!) Maisy made good use of her last lot of leave; she has become quite bronzed. Let's hope she has stopped her meddling.

Five of us were commissioned at the beginning of the term, and now spend most of our time in the glass-house further down the corridor, next to the battalion laundry (Major the Hon. Headington-Hargared, A.L. School I/C).

Last but not least, we must mention our talented members who were on Active Service for several weeks before Speech Day, practising bell-ringing on Tuesday evenings. It has been pointed out that some of them could have performed even better than they did if they had turned up before 0855 hours every morning.

The findings of the official court martial held last month have been published (by kind permission of the Oily Cart Opera Company and Signor Colverdilard):—

1. The commission would like to contradict the popular belief that William Walton's viola concerto is the indigestion after Belshazzar's Feast.

2. The commission has unanimously decided that hens DO lay eggs.

R.S.M. BEARSBREFF,       
3rd Batt. the Fireguards.

Lower VI Arts:—

Having had the geographical disadvantages of our abode pointed out to us, we are proceeding with caution.

Tribal warfare has ceased, much to the disappointment of our Australian indigene.

In the short time we have been in the Form several very perplexing questions have been causing us mental exertion.

"Who's got our clock?"

"Who took our file paper?" and

"If he can have a seagull why can't the parson have a wood-pecker?"

One of our members seems to have a natural flair for floral decorations. The only thing broken this term is one arm, and that was through no fault of ours.

Other questions overheard:

"What's this I hear about drones and workers?"

We hereby give thanks to our adviser, benefactor, and patron. Long may he live!

Lower VI Science:—

The Artists seem to look upon us Scientists with scorn. We believe in tolerance, even sympathy.

 Heard in the Chemistry Lab.: Well, it must have been a very weak beaker.

Heard in the Physics Lab.: Every magnet has its moment. (With apologies to our politician.)

Heard during break: Who wants to play in their silly old football team anyway?

I wouldn't take a prize now if they came to me on their bended knees.

Heard on the way to School: Look, mum, Sailors!

They say—what do they say?
They say—

That the ark wasn't the only boat to escape the Great Flood.

It was just one of those things

They are glad they haven't been asked to stick it together again.

The pace is getting hotter now.

It takes money to be a capitalist nowadays.

That P.T. periods are much too strenuous.

That when R.L.S. wrote "15 men on a dead man's chest" he was thinking of school Rugby.

That VI Arts get more corrupted every day.

The swords and spears have been beaten into table tennis bats.

They get blamed for everything.

THE SCIENTIST.

Remove:—

Once again another school year has begun, with the Form Room containing a new party of warriors who come to tackle the problem of work. Looking back over last term, one realises it has followed a normal course, coming to school feeling weary and at five minutes to four dashing home as quickly as possible, with eagerness to finish homework and to participate in a more social life. We congratulate Godsmark and McEwan for having both played in the 1st XI.

With Christmas rapidly approaching, all eyes are turned towards December 22nd, the end of term and the Prefects' Dance. Also we say "farewell" to our colleagues who will be leaving, and we wish them a happy future. The end of term, however, reminds those of us who are staying on how quickly the shadow of the preliminary examinations, which take place in February, is approaching, and that we will have to spend more of our own time indulging in school work.

M. BULLEN.

Middle V:—

We arrived back from the summer holidays to find that some members of the Form had changed on top. A duck's anatomy proved topical.

We were overjoyed to find that we were now officially allowed to use the tower, and consequently defended it from Fourth Form intruders.

For the first time the Form was split up for lessons. Consequently, while some boys were spoiling examples in maths., others were doing history. Despite this change we still managed to get together for English. One boy, who is slightly over the average size, decided to take eleven subjects or bust. He was afraid that owing to the pressure of work he would have to drop homework.

The most remarkable feat of the term was that the charity target was achieved.

Four of our Form are in the Under 15 soccer team.

BOGG, CRUN, & ECCLES.

Middle IV:—

The M.IV Noog Wosh Note (with apologies to Eccles!)

Synopsis—nothing, ink, chalk.
 

Dear Readers,

All characters in the following passage are non-fictitious and entirely relate to the Noogs. As we enter the Form Room we are confronted with three parties of inmates. The near (door) corner inmates are taking the skeleton out of the cupboard, e.g., former Form masters. In the opposite back corner five inmates are enveloped in thick grey-blue clouds of smoke. Passing on to the far corner of the room, we are assailed by the Noog Wosh Educational, Social, and Cultural Organisation (N.W.E.S.C.O.). This honourable organisation has been formed for the study of politics, religions, and people. The members are seven political followers, two religious members, and four students of people. Subjects under discussion are Modern Art, the Church and the environment of the simple races, Margaret Rutherford, Tessie O'Shea or Marilyn Munroe, and Are Masters Desirable?

Passing on, dear readers, to the fourth corner, we see "Crazy Collectors' Corner." The collectors are in three categories, e.g., train and car number collectors, stamps, and chalk. Needless to say, the chalk collectors are the most flourishing.

On leaving the Noog Wosh, passing pityingly the huddle of broken and despairing masters chained to the wall, we think of the set of ordinary youths in the typical Form Room—

M.IV.

Upper III:—

It was recently suggested at the Unicorn Club, during a discussion on "The Pharos," that everyone in the Form should contribute a suggestion to the Form Notes. This system, however, would definitely fall down with our Form. As it is, two people are writing these notes, and you can see how bad they are.

So far we have done mainly nothing. A "wormery" decorates our Form Room, and already upon it appears such phrases as "Frying Tonight." We are sad to announce that two worms are already deceased having been cut in two by an "unknown hand."

Sixth Formers used to gaze at our marvellous Film Section, which has now been censored.

D. J. C. & M. T.

Middle III:—

I feel that the intelligence in our Form is far greater than parents or masters realise. When we enter manhood as politicians, comedians, book-makers, and road sweepers, our masters will look back and find praise for work we have done. What is greatness? Something that nobody understands, e.g., Moore's wonderful reclining figures which resemble anything from a flying heffalump to a school dinner.

Surely there is sufficient talent in our class to form a government, judging by the bewildered looks of our masters. We also excel at sports like shove-halfpenny and marbles. We have a superb football team, we have three boys in the Under 14 XI, and one who lasted a match in the Under 13 XI. After many threats and bribes, our homework monitor developed a bad memory, and now we have a new one.

DA COSTA.

Upper II:—

6th Legion G.H.Q.,       
Barrack Room 15.   
Doubris.

Friends, Romans, and countrymen, lend me your ears. "Who has lost a sock?" says our General, holding up the afore-mentioned object, with a clothes peg attached to his nose, for 'tis mighty ancient!

This remark does nothing to stir the chaotic 6th Legion from their great rejoicings. Culina and Cervisia play chess with much concentration(?), and a happy hoedown swings gaily tinder Way with music supplied by mouth-organs and the 6th Legion's Patent Ruler Twanging Band.

I do not think we shall endeavour to make a peristyle, as I am sure that, if we sink a tank into the floor and knock a hole into the ceiling, someone is bound to disapprove. It is with great pleasure, however, that we announce that it broke just as we were starting it. We had hoped to build an amphitheatre and hold gladiatorial contests, but we have only irascible pedagogues and prefects (commonly known as generals and tribunes) to throw First Formers to.

Valete, Amici,       
P. PIDDOCK.

Lower III:—

Prepare yourself for a shock, the Form football team has won three games, under the brilliant captaincy of Jackson. Vesey still tops the bill for the shortest boy in the third year. A newcomer to the Form is Colles, who came first in the first half-term.

The Charity Monitor (bless him) has actually managed to get some money from the Form. (We still don't believe it.)

M. G. and D. P.

Middle II:—

E - - - s does not pace our Form Room now. H - - - - r and R - - - - s are the chief ones. Our Form Captain, F - - - - - r, is a very brainy boy for Captain, also M- - - - - - t, who is, Vice-Captain, is quite brainy, and is humorous in his ways. Only the other day, F - - - - - r was given lines to do. He asked what to do them on, and M - - - - - - t shouted out, "paper." There was a roar of laughter after this.

M - - - - - - - d tries to stall our lessons by asking silly questions. A good ruse, but it never works. Our Homework Monitor, F - - - - d is very co-operative (with the masters, of course. Worse luck !). Sometimes we like a lot of homework, but not when we want to go to the pictures.

D. J. BEALE.

Lower II:—

We think soccer is looking up this year, Mac and Steer being the best footballers. Cozby is carrying on his good job as a Charity Monitor, having so far raised over 30s.

We hope to see the Form magazine in quantity production soon, as last year fifty copies a month were ordered, which goes to prove how popular it was.

Having had our say, we will now re-apply our nose to the grindstone.

MICK & GEOFF.

Upper I:—

We have settled down quite well, and as a class we are quite happy. In football we have given a fair report of ourselves, having played five games, winning three, drawing one, and losing one.

K - - - is trying to start a Form band of flutes, clarinets, mouth organs, and recorders. Quite an assortment, but what a noise! According to the editor of the "Greenhouse," Clarence, our Form mascot, wears a knowing look, and if he does not change it in the near future he had better start doing homework. What an ebony crocodile would do for homework I do not know! Like Mary's little lamb, he follows us wherever we go.

In our opinion we think we are not a bad lot of chaps, but, no doubt, masters have other views.

M. J. HUDSMITH.

Middle I:—

As we are only first-year boys, we think we are a good Form. We are quite well behaved, and we have only been kept in twice. We have over £1 in the Charity Fund, and have a very good football team. Our first defeat was when we were beaten 13—3 by Middle II. We had, however, a good win over Lower I, beating them 7—0.

Up to now our Form magazine has run to four editions. We are very fortunate in having three boys with typewriters and one with a stapling machine, because without them we could not produce our magazine, which the masters think is good. Soon we are hoping to let the Form have it for nothing.

Quite a few of our boys attend the clubs which are held after school. We have several boys in our Form who have been abroad, one to China, one to India, and one to New Zealand.

I. C. FITZSIMMONS.

Lower I:—

First Formers start off each year in either Upper I, Middle I, or Lower I, and I expect you know by now which Form I am in. That's right, Lower I, the infants of the School. We have, however, so far managed to reach third position in the Football League.

We have also boys in the Gymnasium Club who have acquitted themselves with honour.

Our motto is "Up the Lowers." We may be the infants of to-day, but we shall be the giants of to-morrow.

''Our day SHALL come.''

I. MARTIN.

== HOUSE NOTES==

Astor

For the first time for many years Astor has succeeded in winning the House Soccer Championship, although the issue was in doubt right up to the last two games. Success was mainly due to excellent performances by the Second and Third Form teams, in particular the latter, which won all its three games. May I single out Corry and Wellard from amongst these teams for special praise. The senior teams did reasonably well—the 2nd XL drew with Frith and went on to beat both Priory and Park.

The Spring Term brings a host of activities—Rugby, the P.T. competition, and cross-country running for the seniors, and the P.T. competition and the East Cup competition for the juniors. We stand a good chance in Rugby of emulating our soccer success, but only if the 2nd XV does not repeat its performance of last year and lose all its matches. Success in the Powell Cup depends upon how many are willing to qualify and to put in several practice cross-country runs.

In all the Autumn Term has been one of considerable achievement, and the enthusiasm of the juniors is definitely encouraging. But the fact that good performances by the juniors has turned the balance of soccer success in favour of Astor is, however, not an added reason for the seniors not to bother—so let us continue in this vein for the rest of the year and get the House Championship Shield back where it rightfully belongs.

R. J. H. OBREE.

Frith

Let us not become complacent because of our success last year, for which we are greatly indebted to the efforts of the senior school, especially in the Spring Term.

This year we have not got off to a very good start, having finished third in the House Soccer Competition. A considerable effort will be necessary by all members of the House if we are to retain our position as "Cock House."

With strong support from the middle school we can again carry all before us in the Spring Term. Let Frith set an example, and be able to pick both Rugby XV's from genuine volunteers.

As in previous years, however, our main weakness will be in gymnastic and swimming competitions. We have no outstanding performers for either of these activities, but if average boys are prepared to practise we can greatly improve our position. We cannot afford to have such weak performances in these events as we did last year. The results of the Athletic Sports can also be bettered if we obtain more standard points. Every boy should try and get some points early in the Summer Term.

Let us all make a real effort, so that we can again see the dark blues leading the field.

T. D. HEAVER.

Park

We started off the soccer season with a great flourish, but unhappily ended up on a note of anti-climax. Six points were collected in the first four games, compared with three-and-a-half points painfully scraped together in the last eight matches. However, we were easily second in the Soccer Championship and are well up in the House Championship race. The foundation for this comparative success was laid by the 1st XI, which won all its three games, thanks to very keen and able play by the whole team, and especially the captain, Eric Jones.

This term is a full one, for there are inter-House competitions in rugger, cross-country running. and P.T. In all these we have the nuclei of really sound teams, but to ensure our giving a good account of ourselves the whole House must back up the faithful few.

I should like to see at least twenty-five representatives of Park in the Powell Cup race. It must be stressed that a high standard of running is not demanded; all that is needed is a large number turning out to get standard points—a fact that is within the powers of anyone over the age of 13 who is not unfit.

In rugger we should have two strong and heavy XV's. Unhappily we are lacking in experienced players, but weight and determination can wear down better sides, so we should do quite well this year.

It is said that nothing succeeds like success: the converse is equally true. In the past two years we have been through a bad patch, and the drop in enthusiasm and interest in the House has been appalling and ruinous, although it was quite understandable. Now at last we have something to be enthusiastic about, so perhaps the enthusiasm will come back. Park House, you must wake up to the fact that you will be Champion House this year if you try to be.

W. L.

Priory

The record of the House sports team this year does not make very good reading, and the grand success of the past few years made this year's comparative failures the more disappointing. Every House, however, has its cycles of good and bad years, and with our obvious talent in the lower school it should not be long before we are once again serious challengers for the Challenge Shield.

The Priory spirit has been evident in the soccer teams, and we will make no excuses for lack of ability, especially in the senior teams, which failed to gain a single point.

For the 3½ points we have scored we are indebted to our Second and Third Form teams, where, nevertheless, the failure to turn up without previous apologies cannot be over-emphasised. Indeed, the failure of some boys to arrive at all contributed to making our junior record less successful than we had hoped, and such a state is not to be tolerated in any House.

In spite of our poor record to date, we still have a grand chance of pulling off a win in the House Championship. Our athletic successes of past years have clearly been achieved as much by the standards gained by the moderate athletes as by the prowess of the best. This is in keeping with the Priory tradition, and unless this spirit is kept alive and revitalised no one in the House will be able to break up for the summer holidays without a pricking conscience.

J. E. ELLIS.

VALETE

T. E. BARRETT (1950-54). House Football and Cricket. To R.A.F.

J. B. CHURCHILL. G.C.E. O. (5); C.C.F. To Trowhridge Grammar School.

P. J. COLLARD (1948-54). G.C.E. O. (4); Cricket (S.2, H.1); Choir. To apprentice
electrician.

D. B. ELLIS. G.C.E. O. (3).

B. J. GATE. G.C.E. O. (1). C.C.F.

R. A. W. GILLINGS. G.C.E. O. (1).

K. JONES (1950-54). Football (H.2). To N.C.B. apprentice fitter.

J. C. McEWAN. G.C.E. O. (3).

B. PEARCE (1952-54). Cricket (H.2); C.C.F. To St. Vincent's Training School. Gosport.

== OLD PHAROSIANS.==

THE OLD BOYS’ RE-UNION

The annual re-union dance goes from strength to strength. In recent years the number attending has risen well above 200, and accommodation at School has been under pressure. For this and other reasons the Committee therefore decided to revert to the former custom of engaging the Town Hall, an experiment fully justified by an attendance of 270 people.

Facilities for dancing were excellent and the evening went with a swing. The normal meeting of Old Pharosians of many generations appeared to be proceeding to everyone’s satisfaction, as was emphasised by Mr. J. Slater, the President, in a most happily worded speech in which he referred at some length to the strictness of his own moral upbringing.

Some Old Boys will prefer the Town Hall for future re-unions, some prefer the School. The Committee will no doubt go into the question and see if they can combine the best of both worlds. They appear to have the choice of batting on either of two very good wickets with some assurance of a good attendance at either place.

NEWS OF OLD PHAROSIANS

J. AKEHURST called at School in December after completing his course at the School of Navigation, Southampton. He will soon be sailing as apprentice in the Clan Line. He reports that M. Bingham, who passed out from Southampton ahead of him, has been for a month at the Outward Bound School.

R. ARNOLD, who left in 1934, has given up his post as Assistant Surveyor at Enfield and is going to Penang on a long contract.

D. BAXTER is teaching Geography and French at a London grammar school.

D. S. BELFORD is reading for a biology degree at Leeds University, and hopes to proceed to a Ph.D. in bio-chemistry.

LESTER BORLEY was President of the University of London Union last year. In his capacity as Past-President he appeared on the T.V. screens in October, when he summed up the Union debate then being televised.

M. J. CHEESEMAN has been in Berlin learning Russian, and is now in Birmingham University continuing his study of that language.

J. FITZPATRIK follows in the path of several O.P.s by going to Winnipeg for flying training. He writes to say that a taxi from camp into town costs 12s., and they have chicken and turkey for dinner every week.

C. FULLER, F. FULLER, M. HARRISON, and J. McMANUS have meetings in Rhodesia. Harrison has gained a couple of stripes in the Mounted Police. McManus has resigned from the Civil Service and entered the more adventurous business of tin mining.

J. A. KING and D. BROMLEY called at School in September. They have been working on farms, and are going for a year to Borden with a view to careers in agriculture.

J. McCULLOCK is British representative of a Canadian aircraft firm. He has the good fortune to be paid in dollars to live in England.

P. McVEY, of the Dover Cycling Club, rode with a partner on a tandem from Folkestone to London and back in the record time of something less than 6½ hours. They averaged 20 m.p.h. for the double Journey.

R. D. TRITTON is a Cadet at the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.

J. WATERS called at School after his trip across Canada, including a visit to the Empire Games. He is going to the London School of Economics to study for a career in accountancy.

P. WARING was a recent caller. He is studying aeronautical engineering at the Northampton Engineering College, after spending a period at Vickers, Weybridge.

A. W. S. WEBBER is in the City of London Police, and speaks well of the life.

D. WHALL is in his last year at St. Mark's and St. John’s College. He was accompanied on his visit to School by J. HALL. who is a 2/Lt. in the Sherwood Foresters, and is proceeding after National Service to the same College as Whall.

L. G. WILCOX is a regular R.A.F. officer, and has been flying Vampires.

The Head referred in his annual report on Speech Day to the presence of four O.P.s in Chicago. Dr. J. Williams is there on a medical course of research. The British Vice-Consul in that city is B. S. Jell, who was in Ebbw Vale at the same time as Williams. Another O.P. named Holmes is in Chicago reading for a Ph.D. in psychology.

== PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION==

The Annual General Meeting was well attended, and an increased membership reported, although only 25 per cent. of the boys are represented in the Association. The financial statement showed an increased balance in hand, which it is hoped will still further improve, to allow the Committee to continue its work effectively. The meeting was followed by a musical programme and a puppet show arranged by Mr. Dale and Mr. Rowlands. The Association greatly appreciates the assistance given by Staff and boys at its functions, and aspires by these and other methods to bring the parents in closer contact with the School.

A beetle drive and social held during the term was poorly supported, but those who attended spent an enjoyable evening together.

In an effort to interest more parents, two evenings of contrasting character have been arranged for the Spring Term, and it is hoped that both the dance and the lecture will be well supported.

H. J. BELSHAM,
Hon. Secretary/Treasurer.