No. 121. SPRING, 1956. VOL. XLVI.

FIAT LUX.

== EDITORIAL==

The editors have once more been presented with the problem of striking a balance between a mere record of the activities of School life and a magazine entirely devoted to miscellaneous contributions with no direct bearing on School life. We hope that the balance we have achieved will not unduly displease any of our readers, and that all will find included something of particular interest to them. We hope to include in our next issue some contributions which we have omitted from this, so the editors extend their gratitude to all those who have submitted articles for our consideration.

Form notes have once again taken their place on the pages of the magazine, but, in view of the clamour raised because they were omitted in our last issue, it is surprising that the current series has so many gaps. Criticism is most certainly welcomed, but positive contributions to the magazine are a far more constructive expression of continued interest.

The events to mark the School's Jubilee are now over, and the last issue of "The Pharos" was the Jubilee number. Nevertheless, this issue does complete the record of those events. Mention is made in the ensuing pages both of the outing to London and of the service at St. Mary's Church, reminding us of the development of the School up till now, and pointing to the foundations on which its future life must be based.

"The Pharos," of course, is something wider than a magazine for the present members of the School. It circulates among parents. Old Boys, and friends of the School, which is a further reason why the present Grammarians should do their best to give a good account of themselves.

Finally, we hope that when you receive this issue you will take it as a signal to write articles for the next edition.

IN BRIEF

We regret the departure from the Staff of Mr. F. T. Walton. who is now employed by the Suez Canal Company. In his place we welcome Mr. Pitceathly, who was previously on the staff of Hilton College, a South African Public School.

In the Autumn Term we had a visiting speaker, Mr. Paine, who gave a lecture to Fifth Formers on "Architecture as a Career."

We acknowledge with thanks all copies of our contemporaries.

Most back numbers of "The Pharos" are in stock, and can be obtained from the editors at 1s. 6d. each.

The next issue will appear in the autumn, but all contributions for it should be submitted before the School Year ends in July.

F. T. WALTON, B.A. (1950-5) (Picture)

During his five years at the School. Mr. Walton undertook many various duties, practical as well as intellectual. The accompanying photograph shows him in his role as inaugural leader of the Naval Section of the C.C.F. and it is for this work that many will remember him. But there were other jobs he did after School hours such as assisting in S.C.M. discussions and exhibitions, officiating at every kind of sport, representing the Staff on select committees and organising Christmas parties.

Mr. Walton was equally versatile in matters of curriculum, taking several subjects at different times, as well as specialising in Physical Education. He also taught Scripture throughout the School, and was able in 1955 to see a small group of students through G.C.E. at the Advanced Level.

All this list of activities which is, anyway, incomplete, only suggests the all-important element of personality. Perhaps this is best indicated in Mr. Walton's case by reference to his being essentially a family man, for he had the way of carrying homeliness to the wider circle of adults and boys. So there was no fear where he was, but an abundance of calm and kindliness and good humour.

Mrs. E. M. KING

It was with very deep regret that we had to say goodbye to Mrs. E. M. King last September. when she left us to take up an appointment at Harvey Grammar School, which has a central kitchen providing meals for neighbouring schools.

She came to us in 1945, when she had to arrange for the kitchen and dining-room to be re-equipped, and began by serving 170 meals per day, but by the time she left this figure had risen to 390, and had at times stood as high as 440.

We shall remember Mrs. King not only for the pleasant meals she provided for us during School time, but also for the delightful suppers and decorations she produced for such functions as the Prefects' Dance, which added so much to the enjoyment of the occasion. We wish her the very best of luck in her new post.

== MAGAZINE SECTION==
THE GIANT'S TREASURE

At five minutes to four a handbell was rung and all the children came trooping out of the village school at Hilton, which is in South Devon. Four children hurried home to have a quick tea. They were Jim Pinwall. who lived in the Manor House; Jack Simons. who lived at 1 Manor Road (which in the old days was the house for the gardener at the Manor); Bill Consworth, of 2 Pond Road; and Sam Williams, of 5 Main Road.

Half-an-hour later the H.F.S. (the Hilton Four Society, as they called themselves) met in one of the many attics at the Manor House. Their leader, Jim had called a meeting because Sam had had an idea for a new adventure. Sam's suggestion was that they should next day (Saturday) climb Giant's Hill and explore the cave on the other side of it.

Now if one of the very old people in the village had heard this suggestion they would have forbidden the boys to go, because there was a legend attached to Giant's Hill. The legend was that a giant called Linam had raided many of the treasure homes of England and brought his spoils to Devon, where he had put them in a pile. Wishing that no one would find them, he had covered the pile with earth which he had scooped up close at hand, thus making Babbacombe Bay. Further, the Giant, wanting to make sure that the hill was steady, had given it a kick, and made a small cave. Afterwards Linam planned a raid on what is now France, but slipped in a wide deep gorge and the water rose to the top, thus making the English Channel.

This legend was believed by all the old people of the village who would not venture too near Giant's Hill in case something terrible happened to them, but, of course, neither the boys nor their parents believed this at all.

Next day the H.F.S. met at Sam's house at ten o'clock. and soon afterwards they started up the hill. When they came to the top, Bill (the comic) shouted: "Hail. O Linam, I have conquered your hill!" which made the other three laugh so much they nearly fell back down the hill. Then they went to the cave and explored every nook and cranny. A shout from Jack brought the others running. He said:

"Look! A little passage. Come, follow me! " So they all followed Jack. The passage was a crack inside the hill.

"Stop!" shouted Jack as he came to the end of the passage. "I can feel something solid, something like a box. I can move it!" He pushed and pulled at the object and managed to pass it back to the others.

"Wait, here is another one, and another! There are lots of them."

Altogether there were five boxes, and the boys dragged them all back into the cave itself. They found the boxes easy to open, and soon they were examining the contents. There were pearls, rubies, gold and silver ornaments, and other valuable things.

Then Jim had a bright idea.

"Sam, go and get the cart and a rug to put over these and we'll take them home and show them to Dad."

When they got the treasure to the Manor House, Mr. Pinwell exclaimed: "So the old legend must be true after all!"

He rang up P.C. Smock and told him of the find, and the constable hurried to the Manor immediately. When he had seen the treasure he said there was a more likely solution than the Giant's legend.

"Some of the Spanish Armada were said to have hidden the most valuable things in their ship in a hill." said P.C. Smock.

Next day some archaeologists came to examine the find, and they concluded at last that it really was from one of the ships of the Spanish Armada, for one of the boxes had scratched on it the name of a Spanish captain, as though he had decided to say this part of the treasure was to be his.

Later. P.C. Smock called to tell Mr. Pinwall that the treasure was worth £4,000, which divided just nicely among the four boys, and he concluded. "You will be able to go anywhere you like."

Jim said to his father: "Dad, could you arrange a super big feast at the school and buy fireworks and have lots of things to celebrate the findings?" This, of course, was greeted with cries of "Good old Jim!" etc.

Next week was a holiday, and every night fireworks were let off. A feast was held on Monday at the school, and other nights there were games on the grass (between the copse and the pond). The Manor House was open to the public and ancient relics on display. Everyone was merry. Everyone, that is, except the H.B.S.C. (the Hilton Boys' Secret Club), for they were rivals of the H.F.S. and had planned to explore Giant's Hill cave on the Saturday evening, and were angry when they heard the H.F.S. had beaten them to it: and sought their revenge There were three boys in the H.B.S.C.—Martin, Tom and John—and they planned a raid on the Manor House on Wednesday night.

Wednesday night came, and three black-faced. boys scaled the Manor wall and crept through the garden. Then they started to climb up a drainpipe and through an open window into an unused bedroom. Martin crept downstairs to see if the relics were still there, but they were not. Instead there was a trip wire attached to an alarm bell. "Ding, ding, ding!" went the rough bell.

Five seconds later, Mr. Pinwall, Jim and his elder brother came running out of their bedroom. Jim and his brother took care of John and Tom, while Mr. Pinwall ran downstairs and caught Martin trying to get out of the front door.

Next day the news spread like wildfire through the village that Martin, Tom and John had been caught in the act of trying to steal from the Manor House. Though Mr. Pinwall had let them go free, after a good talking to, they were in such disgrace that they had to disband the H.B.S.C. and promise to behave better in future.

The H.F.S. used a lot of their treasure money for the good of the village. Mr. Pinwall let them have a piece of waste ground that belonged to him, and they tidied it up and made a children's playground, with swings, a maypole, a seesaw and sandpits, and they called this "Linam's Field".

H. D. GARROD, U.II.

DECEMBER

THE GALLEON

THE NIGHT AVIATOR

The night was pitch black. A cool breeze played with the tall, gaunt conifers that stood on the skyline. They did not seem like trees in the gloom of the night, only long, bare fingers reaching to the sky. Shadowy clouds wandered across this gloomy space, and somewhere in the vast expanse of darkness flew a lone aviator—one single piece of life in a world of seeming death.

The soft whine of his engine, grew into a full-throated roar as the aeroplane passed above the trees, which, in this strange mixture of fantasy and reality, seemed to reach for him . . . . and miss. The flyer passed on, heading for his aerodrome. home and peace.

Peace? What is peace? Will he ever experience peace? One doubts it. Continually he takes off in his tiny machine, flies to the enemy, fights him, and returns. Over the familiar old conifers he comes, down to a busy, war-fevered world. He will not know peace yet. He flies to save his country from the clutches of evil. He is one of the few.

BAYFORD. U.V.

MOONBEAMS

The sleek moonbeams slithered across the trees like silver phantoms. They darted here and there on the small lake like streaks of coloured lightning. Everything was silent, and as the moonbeams slid to the earth through the illuminated tree leaves they gave weird and lovely impressions of flowers. The scene was like a small fairy garden in the midst of the dark glade.

C. MYLCHREEST, M.I.

GYPSIES

LEAVES

AN OCTOBER EVENING

THE WEATHER IN DOVER, 1953 — 1956

Inspired by the example of a recent Sixth-Former, J. E. Ellis, I have collected and (as far as my mathematics permits) summarized the weather figures published in the local paper each week. The results obtained are interesting, but, of course, nothing conclusive can be proved by figures for such a small period.

GENERAL COMMENTS FOR RESPECTIVE YEARS

1953.

The first half of the year was dry, but late Summer and Autumn were very wet. October was the wettest month.

1954.

Once again July, August and November were very wet and the annual rein total was 4 inches more than usual. The sun-hour total was very tow owing to the unexpectedly cloudy conditions in the Summer months. November was the wettest month.

1955.

The Summer months, particularly July and August, were very warm and sunny, but there was a very cold spell at the beginning of the year, even May being cooler than usual. During the months June, July, August and September, there were 800 hours of sunshine. October, however, was the wettest month for years (over six inches).

MISCELLANEOUS FACTS

The wettest day was October 21st, 1955, with 3.39 inches of rain.

In March 1953, April 1954, and April 1955, only a quarter-of-an-inch of rain fell.

The hottest days were August 21st-23rd, 1955, when the temperature reached 81 degrees F. each day.

The coldest day was February 14th, 1956, when the mercury fell to 16 degrees F.

From December 28th, 1954, to January 13th, 1955 (17 successive days) the sun did not shine at all—an amazing sequence.

The average temperature for February, 1956, was below freezing point.

Over 25in. of snow fell during the same month.

The barometer rose to 30.62 inches on February 3rd, 1956.

It fell to 28.42 inches on December 9th, 1954.

The hottest month was August, 1955, with an average temperature of 64.8 deg. F.

On an average there were 40 minutes less sunshine each day in 1954, than in 1953 and 1955.

R. BOOTH, U.V,

PALAIS DE DANSE!

A MISSING SCENE FROM "MACBETH"

(Macbeth has just learnt that Duncan is going to spend a night at his castle. In this scene he soliloquizes as he rides ahead of the king.)

GOING AWAY FOR A HOLIDAY THIS YEAR?

Are you thinking of going away for a holiday this year? If so how are you going to spend it? Why not do as we did and go for a cycling-camping trip—no soft Youth Hostelling—rough it.

With two enthusiastic friends I set off in the early morning one day last summer and headed westward. We had all our kit and accoutrements tied to the back of our cycles and, although prepared to spend a week getting there, we hoped to reach Devon eventually.

One of us. J.P.B.. had cheerfully stated that we should reach Brighton the first day but owing to trouble with his bicycle we only managed about half the distance, and camped near the beach just outside Hastings. The weather was glorious and our exposed parts were beginning to feel the effects of the sun. We had a 'swim' at Hastings in about 6 inches of water, which was all we could find after the tide went out, even after wading out about half-a-mile. We had happy moments preparing the evening meal and were very hungry when I, the cook, presented my burnt offering to my comrades.

After the meal we turned in. Our bedroom was a tent. The ground was fairly even and we did have a pretty good night, in spite of the fact that the sea was thundering on the shore and every little while, quite regularly, electric trains went roaring by so close we thought that if we opened the flap one would come thundering through the tent. I slept all right even though, being in the middle, I was assailed on all sides by waving arms and legs limited for flailing space by the size of the tent.

We got up early next morning, about 6.30, packed and were off. J.P.B.'s bicycle again gave trouble, and we only made about 22 miles that day. He had about 8 punctures in 200 yards, and we were becoming quite used to his saying, "It's all right, this will only take a minute," and then hearing a long drawn hiss as the tyre punctured again. (His spokes were sucking through the rim.)

The next day we packed him off home by train from a little station at Berwick, just to fool any geographers who think Berwick is on Tweed. This day Terry and I passed Brighton, which we had meant to reach the first day, and cycling through lovely weather and pleasant countryside, we reached Bognor Regis, where we camped for the night in a large field just vacated by 3,000 Boy Scouts and a travelling circus. As you can imagine, the field was extremely large, and we and our little tent felt quite tiny in our corner of it.

Owing to the trouble with J.P.B.'s bicycle we had not made particularly good progress, but on the fourth day we made good time and reached Poole, Dorset, where we met our first real difficulty. We could not find any place to camp—nobody wanted us. Eventually, after searching around for what seemed an age, we found a small field and persuaded the occupants—cows—to shift while we put the tent up. That tiny field we shared with some cows, a couple of dogs, the noise of hens and the dubious scent of a pig-sty next door. On top of all this we were not allowed to build a fire, and dined on cold beans and bread, and raspberry jam—Ugh! We came to the conclusion that either the people of Poole were forewarned of our coming or were just inhospitable. That day had been a wonderful one, nevertheless, for on our way down after going through Southampton we had passed through the beautiful scenery of the New Forest in summer. There is about 20 miles of this beautiful country. The huge trees stretch on for mile after mile. The sunlight passing through the chinks in the leafy roof overhead made exciting patterns on the road that curved and wound its way through the forest. Every now and then we came upon groups of varied coloured ponies with their foals. These ponies are so very tame that they mob any human or car that stops and beg, literally, for food. One tried to chew my pack while we stopped at a roadside restaurant for a beautiful dinner. These ponies wander anywhere they please since there are no fences on any of the roads, and so motorists must drive with great care.

Next day we again traversed beautiful country, but the hills! Gradients of 1 in 6 and 1 in 4 were three a mile and gave us a switchback feeling—slow up one side, whizz down the other—and made us very tired indeed. After a very trying day we camped near Honiton, in Devon, on a caravan site at a farm. Here we met an interesting character from Southampton who was a part-time undertaker, and learned some interesting things about that vocation—he talked of his bodies in the same way as some second formers talk of their stamps. He certainly entertained us.

The next day we cycled over roads where the cars were creeping along nose to tail heading for the south coast and Plymouth Yachting Week, and at last reached Tavistock, our objective. We pitched our camp by the side of the River Tavy, and here the scenery was quite marvellous. The bed of the river was strewn with large and small pieces of slate and granite. The banks were sandy-soiled and covered with lush green grass. The river itself gurgled and splashed in clear sparkling rivulets over the stones and down little waterfalls. In the pools under the trees there was an occasional splash and ripple as small trout leaped for flies. The sun shone and life seemed wonderful. We swam in the cool Dartmoor water, and feeling extremely invigorated turned in full of the joys of life.

Then it happened. While we were away at Launceston, in Cornwall, for the day, our tent was savaged by some ferocious Devon denizen—probably a cow—and made unfit for habitation. Luckily Terry has relations in Tavistock, so we bedded down on their dining-room floor until I mended the tent.

After staying for about four days in Tavistock. during which we cycled to Plymouth and spent the day on the Sound, we set off by train to Bath via Bristol to commence the final stage of the journey—the return. The weather, after being so fine and hot, became rather unpleasant, and the journey through Marlborough and Reading was not very noteworthy. In fact, on the last day, when we covered over 80 miles, we cycled in pouring rain from Maidstone home and were thoroughly depressed except, when we reached the outskirts of Dover on the Folkestone road. We were near the Plough Inn, the rain stopped and the sun came out, and in the distance, lit up by the sun, stood the symbol of Dover's fame—the castle.

The whole journey had taken just two weeks and had cost us under £6 each. We had covered over 600 miles and passed through 11 counties, and on top of this we had acquired a glorious tan, mighty muscles and wonderful health. So if you want an enjoyable holiday, and I have not put you off, try cycling.

A. W. GARDINER, U.VISc.

DEATH

This article is the first of a series that Mr. Pitceathly is writing for us on different aspects of Natal.

No.1.

NATAL (BIRTH OF A COLONY)

Up to 1835 the white population of S. Africa was, more or less, confined to the Cape Colony. There had been explorative expeditions to the interior from time to time, but little had been done in the matter of permanent settlement. Expansion, however, had been taking place in the East and the Eastern frontier was being pushed gradually across the Gamtoos River to the Great Fish River. It was here that white met black for the first time. The Xhosa tribe lived on the East side of the Fish River and many wars, known as the Kaffir wars, resulted. The Dutch farmers were anxious to find more grazing land as the Loan Place system of land tenure permitted the passing on of farms to the eldest son only.

The Cape had belonged to the Dutch East India Company and was used by their ships as a "half-way house" to the East Indies, and their chief collecting centre was Batavia. During the Napoleonic Wars the British took possession of the Cape as Holland had been forced into alliance with France, and, after Napoleon's Egyptian Campaign. Britain had to keep an eye on her Indian empire. Britain had no intention of keeping this Dutch possession, but at the first treaty of Paris in 1814 she was given the Cape, and Holland received compensation elsewhere. The British authorities now had to take an interest in Cape affairs which involved Dutch, Hottentots, Bushmen and slaves imported from Madagascar and Martinique. In Britain there were many liberal-minded people who did not agree with slavery, so from the start it was obvious that there would be friction between British and Dutch. Britain's defence of the slaves was very right and proper, but the problem of the Eastern frontier was of paramount importance. The Xhosa were not slaves, and, like the farmers, had little protection, despite the fact that they paid taxes and rent. Matters were now really investigated, as the British influenced by a negrophilist, Dr. Philip, who was leader of the London Missionary Society, were inclined to look upon the Xhosa as "innocent children" imposed upon by the Dutch.

The stage was almost set for one of the greatest events of S. African History—the Great Trek. Other factors also upset the Dutch, who were most conservative. A new legal system was introduced in 1828, and this did away with their local officials such as the landdrest and the fieldcornet. It also did away with the small part they played in local government. The abolition of the slave trade in 1807 led to a series of slave regulations preparatory to the final emancipation of slaves in 1832. The Cape slave owners were to receive compensation, but this was so little that many were ruined. The Dutch had always looked upon slavery as custom and the legal protection given to an inferior race did not meet with their approval.

The time had now come for British and Dutch to part and thus, in 1836, the Great Trek to the interior began. From now on the Dutch were to be known as the Boer-trekkers. Parties of them moved to the interior, and from there they were to seek new homes away from British influence. They were convinced that the British "had no more to require of them." Parties under leaders, therefore, moved to the Orange River area, across the Vaal, and to Natal. It is the last named with which we are concerned.

Natal was the land of the Zulus, a tribe which had wandered south from nearer East Africa. In 1836 they were ruled by Chaka, a king who had trained his impis (battalions) to act with precision. They were a fierce and warlike nation. A few white traders settled round "The Port" (Durban), and they received a grant of about 35 miles of land along the coast stretching to 100 miles inland. Their position was precarious, for it depended on the mood of the new king, Dingaan. In 1835 Durban was founded by these few white settlers and application was made to Britain to recognise it as a British Colony. It was refused, and this greatly pleased the trekkers, under Piet Retief, who were about to cross the Drakenberg Mountains and enter Natal. They now considered that they would be outside the British sphere of influence. Retief met Dingaan and requested a grant of land for his Boers. The king was suspicious, and to test the Boers he gave a vague promise and asked them to bring back some cattle stolen by a tribe on the borders of Basutoland. This was done and Retief and 67 other Boers returned to Dingaan to claim their reward. They were hospitably received and a treaty was drawn up. This was followed by a feast, and when the Boers were disarmed they were massacred on Execution Hill. Andries Pretorius hastened from the interior to take Retief's place, and under his leadership the Zulus were defeated at the Battle of Blood River. Natal was now legally in the Boers' hands as the treaty was secured. Britain, however, viewed the Boers in Natal with suspicion and watched carefully how they would handle the natives there. The Cape Punishment Act was passed which stated that all white people below 25^oS. latitude were within British law. In spite of this the Trekkers proceeded to make a Constitution and to form a Boer Republic. Very foolishly the Natal Boers were drawn into quarrels with the Bacas and the Pondos tribes on the fringes of their new territory. This, and the fact that merchants considered the new port of Durban to be dangerous to Cape Town in the matter of trading, forced Britain to annexe Natal in 1843, and it became a Crown colony. Economic prosperity was slow—the main products being ivory and maize. The coast was found to be particularly suitable for the growth of cane sugar, and after the influx of indentured Indians, this crop proved lucrative. The discovery of diamonds and later of gold on the Witwatersrand did much to benefit Natal economically, and agitation for responsible government began in the eighties. This was granted by the Imperial Government in 1893, Natal, therefore, became predominantly British, as indeed it is to-day. The Boer republics in the interior had flourished in the meantime, but here again, as a result of British intervention, the Boer War came about and the ill-feeling which had been dying down as a result of the Great Trek, flared up. The native policy, however, necessitated a union or federation of the provinces, viz. Transvaal, Cape, Orange Free State and Natal. A referendum in June, 1909, revealed an overwhelming majority in favour of union. Natal, fearing the dominance of the Dutch Boers, was insistent on federation, but ultimately union was decided upon, but a provincial council system was introduced to satisfy Natal.

Of all the provinces of South Africa. Natal is the best off as regards water. It is true to say that 90% of the rain falls in the summer, when the area comes under the South-East trades, but hundreds of rivers flow eastwards from the Drakensberg Mountains, and therefore irrigation is possible all through the dry season. The distance from the mountains to the coast is roughly 180 miles, and it will be realised that for the first part of their course these rivers are fast flowing. The average height of the Drakenberg is about 8,000 feet, but several peaks, such
as Giant's Castle, Cathkin Peak and Champagne Castle are over 11,000 feet.

The climate of the province graduates from warm oceanic at the coast to the temperate grasslands of the interior. Rainfall and temperature are affected greatly by altitude. Durban, at the coast, has a January mean temperature of 78^o and a July temperature of 64^o. Rainfall is roughly 45 inches p.a. along the coast. Hilton College (3,000 feet), near Pietermaritzburg, 80 miles inland, has a January mean of 70^o, a July mean of 50^o, and an average rainfall of 32in.

Vegetation also varies considerably from region to region. Bush and tropical forest once occurred all along the coast belt, but to-day only patches of this forest are left, since most has been cleared for agriculture. Further inland, occasional wooded areas are seen on hill slopes facing the direction of the local rain-bearing winds. Further west, this in turn gives way to grasslands—arassveeat and sourveeat.

The coast belt is highly productive, mainly because of good rainfall and absence of frost. Sugar cane is the main crop, and this area stretches from Port Shepstone in the South to Lake Lucia in the North. The plantations are owned by Europeans, but indentured Indians work in the fields and live in the comfortable villages provided for them. Their lot is a fairly happy one, as the Europeans of Natal are of kindly disposition towards the coloured peoples.

Each plantation has its own mill and refined sugar is sent to Durban for export. Tropical fruits abound (bananas, paw-paws, pineapples and avocado pears). Citrus fruit, cotton and some tobacco also are money-making crops. Maize, called mealie-meal, is widespread. Some rice is grown by the Indians on the low-lying lands which tend to be swampy. The manufacture of wood-pulp is a growing industry, and this is obtained by using the gum trees, which are plentiful. Around most towns Indians work market-gardens, and in the same areas dairying is carried on. Durban (total population 421,000: European 130,000, Asiatics 144,000, Natives 132,000, Coloureds 15,000) is the largest city in Natal and the leading seaport of the Union. The shallow, silt-filled bay has been dredged to provide passage for the ships using the port, and docks and quays have been constructed. The harbour is well provided with coaling and oiling facilities. There are also grain elevators. With the growth of the gold-mining industry in the Transvaal, Durban became its chief port, handling the innumerable materials needed by the mines. This and the large farming hinterland served by the port have encouraged great expansion. Many industries have been opened up around Durban and the major concerns include tyre factories, oil refineries, a match factory, motor assembly plants, and paint and soap works. Besides all this, Durban is a health resort, and thousands of people from the Transvaal and Orange Free State visit it throughout the year.

As we move inland above the 1,200-foot contour the climate becomes more temperate and the nature of the land-use changes accordingly. Maize replaces sugar as a food crop. It is not maize, however, that gives character to the midlands, it is the vast cultivation of wattle-trees. Most of the wattle grows above the 3,000-foot contour. The trees were originally imported from Australia. The trees are used in the tanning process and, further, the trees, once stripped are used as pit props in the Transvaal and O.F.S. gold and diamond mines. For the rest, much stock-raising is carried out. The presence of a good maize crop gives rise to a healthy pig-breeding industry. Most towns have creameries and bacon factories. Pietermaritzburg is the principal town of the midlands and the administrative capital of Natal. The origin of the name of the town is traced to the names of two Boer-trek leaders who entered Natal in 1837.

The western grasslands lie along the base of the Drakensberg Mountains. Rainfall is good here owing to height, and as much as 40 inches have been recorded. Much snow falls here in winter. Stock-farming is the main activity. On an average over 250 cattle and 400 sheep are kept on every farm. Much condensed milk is produced and bacon factories are numerous. Nearly half the maize is used as fodder. The Drakensbergs have a lure of their own. Few places in the world can be more beautiful. There is fishing and hunting, and the very ruggedness of the mountains is a constant challenge to the climber.

The northern districts area is severely handicapped. Generally soil is poor and shallow, and rainfall in places drops to below 20 inches. Careless land use has also made this area of little value for crops. Autumn burning of the Veldt, to promote the growing of grass in winter has caused serious erosion in many places. In an attempt to build up some sort of fodder reserves the Department of Agriculture is encouraging the planting of fodder trees such as the Mexican Hawthorn and the Honey Locust. The presence of enormous reserves of good coal underlying much of, the northern districts has led to the establishment of industries. Industrial development is yet in its infancy and, at present, the only signs of heavy industry are to be found at Newcastle, where pig iron, from ore mined near Dundee, is produced. Other industries are, the manufacture of carbide (which draws much of its raw materials from the by-products of a local coke industry), glassmaking and brickmaking.

Natal is rightly called the "Garden Province" of South Africa. Its future is precarious owing to the present political set-up in the Union. The Nationalist Party is now in power, and their determination to leave the Commonwealth is fairly evident. The main remnants of Jan Smuts' United Party live in Natal, and being English in outlook, a break with Britain would cause many heartaches. If a break with Britain occurred, the promises made to Natal at the time of the Act of Union would fall away. Many people now in Natal favour a break with the rest of the Union. but could the province stand by itself, surrounded by unfriendly states?

"ANDROCLES AND THE LION"

In December, the Dramatic Society gave a lively and invigorating performance of "Androcles and the Lion."

Shaw is, of course, wonderful "theatre." His wit sparkles in every line and his building up of atmosphere is so masterly and his perception so penetrating that any cast must act with relish and enthusiasm, and this communicated to the audience makes a very good start. The boys built up from this with excellent sets, and it was the constant use of several different stage levels that added so much to the production. In the scenes in the arena and behind the Emperor's Box at the Coliseum, the use of the two long curved flights of steps, with the centre exit, was splendid stagecraft, and the way in which gladiators and Christians were grouped and moved in and out with tremendous pace and verve created for us the perfect illusion, namely, that it was an easy thing to bring the mighty Coliseum of Rome in the year A.D.60 on to a small school stage in the year A.D.1955.

Congratulations, too, to the Emperor, who, in his flowing robes, managed these difficult steps with such ease, and, on occasion, with just the right degree of comedy.

The success of this play came chiefly, of course, from Shaw himself, and from the team work and stagecraft of the producer and his helpers, but some individuals must be mentioned for especially good treatment of difficult parts, although the general standard was not so uniformly high as in the previous play, "Noah."

The part of Androcles is almost impossibly difficult for a lad to grapple with—he is such an elusive character—and that of Lavinia is not easy, but both these performers had their moments. The Editor was outstanding, both in his voice and grasp of the part—he did not slip back to the schoolboy once. Spintho, again, got right inside a very difficult part, which he sustained in character to the end. Ferrovius, too, showed a real appreciation of an extraordinarily hard part. Of course, it is perfectly legitimate to take Shaw as pure fun, but these characters drew out at least some of the deeper subtlety of the parts. Praise goes from us all to the Lion for his "voice." The timing of the off-stage voice with the on-stage movement was perfect every time.

A last word of thanks must go to the School Orchestra; it was good to see them so well to the fore, and their choice of charming light music was most suitable and much appreciated.

LA TROUPE FRANCAISE — 'L' AVARE'

On Monday, October 3rd, the School was favoured by another visit from Miss Pamela Stirling's troupe française. This year's presentation. Molière's "L' Avare," was an admirable choice, for this play is relatively easy to follow and is well arrayed with comedy between the more serious moments. In many respects it is rather too far removed from reality, but Molière's moral aims in writing the play remain quite clear. Harpagon is a character recognisable in any age, and the whole play is directly concerned with one comprehensive theme—avarice and its effects. It amply illustrates Molière's simplicity of intrigue and characterisation, with natural characters producing natural actions.

There is little doubt that Harpagon's two children stole the show. The demure Mme. Calvet proved a natural actress in the part of Elise. moving with ease and speaking without any affectation. M. Jean Outhier appeared particularly well-suited to the part of Cléante, for here indeed was the boisterous and pleasure-seeking recruit to society, not naturally debased but always deceiving and despising his father. These two performances exposed a slight lack of domination, in the portrayal of Harpagon, for his children could "twist him round their thumb" a little too easily. However, this is an extremely difficult rôle, demanding the actor's complete absorption in his part. In this case rapacity seemed slightly subordinated to age. As a result M. Dalan was rather inaudible at times, while his back inevitably became straighter as the play progressed. Nevertheless, he certainly appeared to be the character that mattered most. At the close of Act. IV. where such powerful playing to the gallery is always excused, his frenzied soliloquy was wonderful acting. Of the other characters Frosine, the femme d' intrigue, was the most convincing. Mariane, on the other hand, seemed far too staid to fall in love with any gentleman, even of her own age, but such casting was unavoidable in the circumstances. The inimitable Gaston Richer portrayed two of the amusing servants with all the necessary gusto and buffoonery, whereas Maître Simon inexplicably concealed his face beneath a large cloth hat.

In Molière's castigation of vice by comedy farcical situations played a most important part. It is on their treatment of these scenes, in particular that the company are to be congratulated. To promote the interest of the schools present the characters emphasised the amusing and intelligible incidents, but spoke with greater speed when the dialogue was more allusive, tedious or anachronistic. Yet they did not exaggerate their occasional displays of contemporary manners and their humorous, well-timed movements. The scenery was naturally inadequate, for a visiting company cannot be expected to convey large amounts of props from place to place. There were therefore none of the usual stage devices, such as French windows and a shutter cut in the door to allow observation from outside.

Nevertheless, the afternoon proved most valuable in enabling those present not only to appreciate Molière's dual quality of sympathy and exposition, but to improve their ability to speak French. We can only hope that, as in previous years, we have said no more than "au revoir" to the Troupe Française.

R. M. HOPPER. M.V.

A DECEMBER EXCURSION

The festive season is generally regarded as a period of release from our academic toils. One sunny morning in December, therefore, a party of adventurous sixth-formers, accompanied by two eminent predecessors and some honorary members from Remove, might have been observed surreptitiously creeping out of the school half-way through first period. Each encased by various means of protection from the cold and with Ordnance Survey sheets in our hands, we slithered, skidded and slipped down the bank towards St. Radigund's just as the earth was casting off its binding of frost. Thence we proceeded with less ado along the valley towards Poulton Farm.

This, like the Elms Vale, is a perfect example of the ubiquitous dry valleys of chalk country. The gradual recession of the scarp has lowered the water-table well below the surface, and to-day the roadway runs along the bed of a former stream. Having perceived the generalized nature of the text-book statement and witnessed the curious activities of a Kentish farm, the party 'split' up into three groups and climbed but of the valley. Those with academic traits sought for pits indicating structural faults associated with the natural storage of water underground. In the majority, however, the Christmas spirit was far mare prevalent, and a bee line was made for the nearest source of nourishment. At South Alkham a local family was provided with its means of livelihood for the following week, as well as with accumulations of mud from our sodden shoes.

The road B2060 made walking easier and more attention was now paid to the geography of the valley, especially to visible signs of its hydrology. Pumping stations of the Folkestone Waterworks Company were passed at Drellingore and Lower Standen, a halt being called at the latter to observe some mad excavated from the underground channels. Our physical resources were then reduced to a lower ebb by the ascent of the southern side of the valley towards Creteway Down. The summit of the chalk escarpment was thus reached when the sun, too, was at its height, and some discussion was naturally provoked by the wonderful view to be enjoyed there. When the steep scarp slope had been descended diagonally to the bottom of Dover Hill, the party proceeded to Wear Bay to examine some rather disappointing chalk exposures and to observe the coastal and railway protection work being undertaken at the Warren. Some of us were forgiven for assuming that a large house was about to be constructed where a network of stones indicated the site of a relatively small Roman villa. Little success was achieved in seeking actual points of contact of the various geological strata and so, at 1.30. the party disintegrated at East Cliff.

The next hour was spent in sundry occupations among the alleys and lanes of Folkestone before we re-assembled outside the offices of the Folkestone Waterworks Company in Manor Road. Here we listened to a most enlightening and erudite talk by a local hydrologist on the movement, accumulation and pumping of underground water in the Folkestone district, especially in the Alkham Valley. He elucidated his hypotheses and discoveries with extremely interesting geological cross-sections and photographs, and with transparent diagrams placed over a detailed relief model of the area. His explanations of the chalk's varying porosity, of the parallel N.W.—S.E. fissures crossing the Alkham Valley and of "perched wells" completely revised our simple conception of the behaviour of the Water-table within the chalk. Eventually, at 3.30, we showed our appreciation of Mr. Reynolds' hospitality and leaving our muddy footprints besmeared over his velvet carpet, set off for Bouverie Square. So as we returned home in the gathering gloom, most of us felt that our knowledge of local geography had been appreciably increased and that we had satisfied some of the whims of the fresh air fanatics who act as university geography examiners.

J. BOOTH, U.6a

THE JUBILEE THANKSGIVING SERVICE

On Monday, 26th September, there was a packed church at St. Mary's for the Jubilee Thanksgiving Service, which was conducted by the Vicar, the Rev. A. Stanley Cooper, Chairman of the Governors. The Bishop of Croydon gave the address to a representative gathering of scholars, Staff, Old Boys and friends of the School. Among the congregation were the Mayors of Dover and Deal, and Mr. J. Arbuthnot, M.P. for Dover.

The Bishop said that although the chief aim of many people was a life of ease, he was quite 'sure' that that philosophy was completely untrue. If you were going to serve Christ you had to be ready for a tough time. The School had only been brought to its present successful position by hard work, toil and tears. He said that it was a remarkable thing that the School had known only two Headmasters, and owed both of them an immense debt. Owing to the two wars the School had been able to learn through suffering and but for this might not have become so distinguished. He condemned the many modern false gods such as the T.V. set or the little car, and urged the boys now at School not to be led away by the second rate but to be prepared to take up the cudgels of leadership so important now in the life of the country.

THE AMERICAN SUPPER

On Saturday, 24th September, an American Supper, with Mr. K. Ruffell as M.C., was held as part of the jubilee celebrations, and was attended by over 250 Old Boys, parents, Staff and friends of the School. After the School Song was sung, a brief history of the School was given in Latin by J. Booth, the Head Prefect. Then the Choir, accompanied by the organ, rendered Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," and there were displays by representatives of the Combined Cadet Force, and of School games and physical training. The Puppet Society presented "Whips and Toppers," and the Dramatic Society an act from "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Dancing followed to the music provided by a band organised by Mr. F. W. S. Marsh, bringing an enjoyable evening to a close.

THE JUBILEE OUTING TO LONDON

On a Friday morning at the end of September the School, both boys and masters, made their way about 9 o'clock to Priory Station for the railway journey to London on a train specially provided by British Railways. The next stage for the seniors was the assembling at Westminster Pier for a trip on the Thames in several river-boats to Greenwich and back. Between passing under the sombre arches of the several bridges spanning the Thames, original views were obtained of the historical and commercial buildings on either bank. Of particular interest was the commercial activity in the Pool of London and in dockland. Packed lunches in various states of preservation, were consumed on board. Water supply was provided by the spray caused by up-and-down-stream traffic. The Royal Naval College was our turning-point, and the same grim yet immensely interesting scenery was observed afresh. The juniors went on the river in the afternoon.

The party had been arranged in four groups. Those of a political turn of mind gathered much from their going over the Houses of Parliament, with an expert guide to point out all the features of political and historical interest in this "mother of parliaments." The Zoo in Regent's Park proved a stronger attraction to our younger pupils. Those with scientific interests were pleased to have this opportunity of viewing the scientific wonders exhibited in the Science Museum at Kensington. Finally, budding geologists found interest in the Geological Museum close by. Later in the afternoon the four groups re-assembled for tea, and about 6 o'clock another special train was caught to take us all back to Dover.

All in all the outing was a great success. In retrospect we cannot but marvel at the success achieved by the Headmaster, and Mr. Archer in particular, and by the Staff in general in organizing 500 boys for a whole day's outing in the Metropolis.

B. SANDERS, U.VIa

SPEECH DAY

At this year's Speech Day, on November 25th, a rather special occasion, since it came in the Jubilee Year, the Speech Day Address was given by Sir David Eccles, the Minister of Education. After distributing the prizes and certificates, he said that he had recently spoken to a Moscow headmaster, who had told him of the enthusiasm for education In Russia. There, Sir David said, it was realised that the whole development of the country depended upon the schools, and the authorities were therefore determined to persuade every boy to stop at school until he was 18 as soon as they could. This conviction of the worth of education was lacking in this country, although we had the traditions, the buildings, a higher proportion of qualified teachers, and freedom in teaching. Far too many boys did not stay the whole course in Grammar and Technical Schools, and with the steadily increasing need for people with specialised knowledge this wastage was a serious thing for the nation. It would, Sir David said, better pay all boys to complete their course, for then they would be equipped to forge ahead in this interesting world. He referred to the successful careers of many Old Boys, and concluded by saying that the Ministry had the greatest confidence in the School and its Headmaster.

Mr. Booth, in a comprehensive report, then detailed the life of the School throughout the year, and rounded off his remarks by saying that although we had achieved academic distinction (six boys had gained State Scholarships) the School set store by much wider standards. Our aim was that "there may be found here honour and industry, charity and courtesy."

Throughout the afternoon the Rev. A. Stanley Cooper, B.Sc., Chairman of the School Governors, had been in the Chair, and the votes of thanks were voiced by Alderman Redman and the Mayor of Dover.

The Choir and Madrigal Group sang a number of songs, conducted by Mr. Best, who also gave a short organ recital while the guests were assembling.

PRIZE AWARDS, 1954-55

The Good Fellowship Prize (given by the Right Worshipful the Mayor of Dover		T. D. Heaver
The Whitehouse Memorial (Scripture) Prize		W. K. G. Hannaford
The Cecil Cox Memorial Prize for Civic Responsibility (given by Major I. C. Austin)		R. J. H. Obree
The Robert Michael Brown Memorial Prize for RAF. Cadets		D. C. Skinner
The Old Boys' Cadet Prize		R. Bolton
The Rookwood Prize for Dramatics		K. Marsh
The School Magazine Prize (given by an Old Boy)		J. W. Dinot
The Upper School Reading Prize		J. W. Dilnot
The Staff Prize		G. Barrett
The Headmaster's Prize		J. E. Ellis
SIXTH FORM PRIZES (Advanced Level)
The Edward Ryeland Memorial (Physics) Prize		P. E. D. Morgan
The Thomas Memorial (Chemistry) Prize		J. E. Newton
The Clatworthy Senior Latin Prize		D. H. Doble
The Tunnell Senior History Prize		G. Barrett
The Pudney Prize for Economics (given by F. W. Pudney, Esq.)		T. D. Heaver
The Reynolds Prize for Geography (given by Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Reynolds)		T. D. Heaver
The French Prize		D. C. Skinner
The English Prize		D. H. Doble
The Pure Mathematics Prize		P. E. D. Morgan
The Applied Mathematics Prize		W. Lampkin
The Economic History Prize		I. C. Jarvie
The Upper VI Arts Form Prize		J. R. Booth
The Lower VI Arts Form Prize		J. F. Mummery
The Upper VI Science Form Prizes		W. Lampkin
		B. N. Rogers
The Lower VI Science Form Prize		R. J. Richards.
The Upper VI Economics Form Prize		R. J. H. Obree
FIFTH FORM PRIZES (Ordinary Level)
The Clatworthy Junior Latin Prize		L. M. Jones
The Tunnell Junior History Prize		S. J. Garrow
The Sidney Fermor Memorial Prize for Chemistry (given by Mr. and Mrs. C. Fermor)		S. J. Garrow
The Roy Sutton Memorial Prize for English (given by Mr. and Mrs. N. Sutton)		E. Southern
The Lewis Robert Kennedy Memorial Prize for Craft and Engineering (given by Mrs. R. C. Kennedy)		G. M. Meakin
The Patrick Elworthy Memorial Prize for French (given by Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Etworthy)		P. G. Dalton
The Frederick Ashman Memorial Prize for Mathematics (given by Mr. and Mrs. H. Ashman)		A. D. Duncan
The Art Prize (given by the Parents' Association)		D. B. Burns
The Geography Prize		B. M. Serjeant
The Physics Prize		P. R. Edwards
The General Science Prize		J. T. Stone
The Geometrical Drawing Prize		B. E. Sherwood
The Remove Form Prize		L. Taylor
The Upper V Form Prizes		E. Southern
		A. D. Duncan
The Middle V Form Prize		M. B. Thorp
The Lower V Form Prize		M. J. Sharp
MIDDLE SCHOOL PRIZES
The Alan Paddock Memorial Prize (Middle School Good Fellowship, given by Col. A. Andrews)		J. F. Marsh
The Special Endeavour Prize (given by the Parents' Association)		M. Morris
The Middle School Reading Prize		R. G. Booth
The Scripture Prize		B. S. Mason
The English Prize		J. C. G. Binfield
The History Prize		J. C. G. Binfleld
The Geography Prize		G. Bayford
The French Prize		W. P. Shepherd
The Latin Prize		C. C. Turner
The Mathematics Prize		P. S. Johnson
The Physics Prize		D. Bevan
The Chemistry Prize		R. H. D. Strank
The Art Prize		J. A. Dadd
The Craft Prize		R. I. Oxford
The Upper IV Form Prizes		R. H. D. Strank
		W. P. Shepherd
The Middle IV Form Prize		D. J. Boddy
The Lower IV Form Prize		B. R. Mummery
The Upper III Form Prizes		G. J. Catt
		D. J. Clipsham
		M. N. Thacker
The Middle III Form Prize		R. W. Taylor
The Lower Ill Form Prize		F. A. Prue
LOWER SCHOOL PRIZES
The Special Endeavour Prize (given by the Parents' Association)		D. K. Marriott
The Lower School Reading Prize		K. J. W. Keen
The English Prize		D. Stubbs
The Languages Prize		J. D. Cox
The Mathematics Prize		P. Piddock
The Science Prize		G. P. Ayres
The Art and Craft Prize		R. G. Johnson
The Upper II Form Prizes		P. Piddock
		R. G. Thorp
The Middle II Form Prize		N. A. Thacker
The Lower II Form Prize		R. H. Steer
The Upper I Form Prizes		S. R. D. Wilson
		M. W. King
The Middle I Form Prize		I. C. Fitzsimmons
The Lower I Form Prize		D. J. Godden

 

SCHOLARSHIPS
G. Barrett		State Scholarship at University College, London.
D. H. Doble		State Scholarship at University College, London.
T. D. Heaver		State Scholarship at Balliol College, Oxford.
W. Lampkin		State Scholarship at she Imperial College of Science, London.
P. E. D. Morgan		State Scholarship at the Imperial College of Science, London.
J. E. Newton		State Scholarship at the University of Southampton.

C.C.F. NOTES

Naval Section

We must take this opportunity of extending our warmest thanks and best wishes to Lieutenant Walton, who has left us to teach in the Canal Zone.—His successor to the post of C.O. R.N. Section is Lieut. Lister, to whom we offer a hearty welcome. We must also congratulate Cadet-Instructor Dedman on being rated Senior Cadet.

After attending annual training and several courses during the Summer and Christmas holidays all cadets were successful in passing Proficiency Test Part I. and Leading Seamen Mason and Rawcliffe gained Proficiency Part II.

Work has been started on a second sailing dinghy and construction is well under way. N.C.O.s are now busy instructing cadets for A.B. and Petty Officer exams., and judging by present standards many should be successful. The recent marked improvement in drill throughout the section is due to the efforts of Sgt. King, of the Royal Marines, Deal. We extend our thanks to him.

C. M. B.

Royal Air Force Section

During the past six months the section has had considerable success and it is hoped that in the future it will continue to do so. Ten cadets obtained their Proficiency Certificate in December, and five others who already have this certificate passed their Advanced Training Certificate examination. It was very satisfying to see Cdt. Hopper R. get a credit in the Proficiency and Cpl. Duncan and Cdts. Garrow, Ward and Southern credits in the Advanced examinations.

By taking week-end courses at Hawkinge, Cdts. Hyland and Collins gained their "A" and "B" gliding certificates in November. Sgt. Skinner was selected by interview to have an overseas flight, and during February made this to Berlin, where he enjoyed his brief stay despite the cold weather. At the recent all-England aircraft recognition competition, Cpl. Finnis and Cdts. Holman and Hopper did very well considering that this was their first entry into any aircraft recognition competition at all. Flt/Sgt. Richards was one of 32 cadets selected from the whole country for an interview at 61 Group concerning a reciprocal visit to America, but was not one of the lucky eight who will fly to America this summer.

During the last few months several cadets have attended pre-assessment courses at Hornchurch, but were unfortunately found not to possess flying aptitude. We hope this will not deter others from taking full advantage of this and many other beneficial schemes and courses. The idea of the pre-assessment course is to pick out early on the cadets who show promise of being future pilots. The course consists of a medical examination and varied practical tests, and only slight defects in any of the test performances may put the cadet out of the running for a flying career. Consideration of modern aircraft leads us only to expect this, however. Other examples of courses are the Halton Pre-entry course (which normally lasts a week and at which six cadets have given a very good account of themselves and of the section) and the week-end N.C.O.s courses. It is proposed that before promotion is made from the rank of Leading Cadet in future the potential N.C.O. will have to attend such a course and obtain a satisfactory result.

Recently we had a short visit from P/O Skinner, who up to last July, when he left to make flying his career, was the section flight sergeant. He was also the first recipient of the Robert Michael Brown Memorial Prize for R.A.F. cadets, and is now about to start pilot training in Canada and has been commissioned on a 12 years' engagement.

It should be noticed that cadets aiming at an R.A.F. career starting at Cranwell and leading on to a permanent commission can be awarded a cadetship to help pay for their education if they apply before the February or August in which they reach the age of 16 years and 3 months.

R. J. R. (Flt.Sgt.)

Army Section

Since the last Cert. A Part I examination, our strength has risen to the encouraging total of 19. We are indebted to the Buffs for their assistance during the last term. I am sure that all cadets benefited from their expert knowledge. In May, some of the senior cadets were hoping to take their Part II examination, and we hope that the results will prove successful.

Basic Section

The Basic Section now consists of 9 cadets, divided into "A" squad those who failed Cert. A.I last time. "B" squad—the main body, which was preparing to take the exam. with "A" squad in May, and "C" squad, whose members are too young to take the exam.

The Basic and Navy Sections were the defenders in the last field exercise, which took place on the 29th March.

M. HARVEY, (Sgt.)

R. FORSYTH (Cpl.)

THE PHOENIX CLUB

The Club has held regular meetings on a wide range of subjects of topical interest, including a Brains Trust, an Orators' meeting, discussions on the United Nations, Comprehensive Schools. National Service in the Light of British Foreign Policy, and a talk by Mr. Johnson on the proposed Channel Tunnel. A debate on the Death Penalty recorded a vote in favour of its 'abolition, while one on Kent's modification of the 11-plus examination recorded a vote against the change.

Attendances from Sixth Forms, in particular, have been excellent, but this was not so in the case of Fifth and Fourth Forms. However, numerically speaking, though attendances fluctuated, they were generally good.

B. SANDERS (Hon. Sec.)

THE UNICORN CLUB

This year's Unicorn Club activities began on the 29th September, 1955, when K. Jarvis was elected chairman, which office he fulfilled very successfully.

A fortnight later a Brains Trust was held and the prominent professors on the panel expressed their views on the subjects drawn out of a hat by the question-master. The questions were submitted by the audience.

On the 27th October we had a meeting of Amateur Theatricals. Lower III performed a charade and Upper III acted two plays. The result was a general success. The following fortnight, Mr. Denham brought along two interesting films. The first concerned practical tests needed by every-day articles before they are put on the market and the second was about the herring and oyster industries.

On the 24th November personalities of different forms gave us talks on a variety of topics, namely: butterflies, model galleons, the police force, bird-watching, and coins through the ages.

We had an appropriate meeting before breaking up for the Christmas holidays—"A Christmas Variety." The opening item. was an amusing short story, followed by music and a passage read from Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." and a poem written by Mr. Hull. Two members of the Club ended this meeting with a dialogue.

The next meeting was on the 2nd February, as the fortnightly sequence of meetings had been interrupted by the visit of Mr. Talbot-Smith, an ex-admiral, who kindly came to deliver a lecture on ship-spotting. The February meeting consisted chiefly of talks on subjects such as animals, camping, astronomy, model jet engines, and collecting football programmes. We had two musical interludes by a 'cellist.

A Brains trust was the next Unicorn venture, which proved to be less entertaining than the previous one owing to the poor selection of questions put forward. Let this be a lesson to all future members of the Club next year—start thinking early!

We tried a "Mixed Bag" next. There were talks on model aeroplanes and athletic training, and some films were shown.

Then came the Grand Finale of the year, the annual Eisteddfod. There were competitions in music, impromptu speeches, recitation and general knowledge, while Upper III performed two amusing plays, "Late," and "Hot Water."

D. DIGGENS (Hon. Sec.)

LE CERCLE FRANCAIS

At the beginning of the Autumn Term the French Club was founded, and was quite well supported, although membership is generally limited to Fifth and Sixth Forms. One of its first activities was a visit to the Dover Film Society to see "Fan-Fan la Tulipe," which undoubtedly helped to arouse enthusiasm for the Club. At subsequent meetings two one-act plays were read: a farce entitled "A Louer Meublé," and "La Scintillante," by Jules Romains. At the last meeting of the Autumn Term a party went to the Dover French Club to hear a talk on Christmas customs in Provence. The speaker had a very interesting collection of "Santons," little clay models of all the characters that appear in the Provençal version of the Christmas story.

Although the Spring Term has been short, quite a few activities have been arranged. There were further play-readings, scenes being chosen from "Topaze," by Marcel Pagnol. There was also a talk by Madame Matley, of the French Embassy on "Traditions and Customs of the French Family"—a subject chosen partly for the benefit of those boys visiting Douai at Easter, who were invited to the meeting and whom Madame Matley addressed in English, continuing afterwards in French. Her talk, interesting and at times amusing, and full of practical advice, was much appreciated. At our most recent meeting, a party went to see an excellent film, presented by the Dover French Club, entitled "Monsieur Vincent." which deals with the life of Saint Vincent de Paul.

The Cercle Français provides an opportunity for boys in the Upper School to keep their knowledge of French alive, as well as introducing to them interesting aspects of French civilisation and culture. The Club has attracted so far a nucleus of keen, interested members, and will welcome further members in the coming term.

CHOIR AND MADRIGAL NOTES

A fortnight after the commencement of the year we sang at the American Supper J. S. Bach's "Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring" and the School Song, under our new conductor. Mr. Best.

Later, at the Jubilee Service in St. Mary's Church, we sang J. Shaw's "With a Voice of Singing," and led the congregation in Psalm 100.

We then prepared for Speech Day, when the trebles gave a delightful rendering of E. Thiman's "The Daffodils," the Choir performing J. Ireland's "The Hills" and Handel's four-part unaccompanied version of "Silent Worship."

At the Carol Service, a new school feature introduced by Mr. Best. we sang several carols and the recitative and chorus. "Glory to God." from the Messiah.

The Madrigal Group only sang "My Bonny Lass" (Morley) at Speech Day, and two carols at the Carol Service.

P.W.G.

ORCHESTRA NOTES

The improving standard of this group, noted in the last issue, has been well maintained so far this year. This has been due in no small part to the continual insistence of the conductor on a good ringing tone and on distinct intonation. The items given at the School Play last December were intentionally chosen in order to combine these qualities with interesting music. That this was successful was obvious from the paragraph devoted to the orchestra's performance in the local newspaper.

Although a very good balance of strings (6 1st violins, 6 2nd violins. 3 violas, 3 'cellos) has been obtained, the call for new instrumentalists is naturally always present, and it is well worth while boys from the Lower School considering the learning of an instrument. Anyone wishing to have particulars about the learning of an instrument and lessons, may obtain these from the Music Master.

An event occurring during the summer holidays may well be considered by the members of the orchestra. This is a week's co-educational course of orchestral playing, organised by the National Music Teachers' Association. It provides a helpful week of expert guidance at various standards. as well as giving amenities for friendship and recreation in the form of swimming, tennis and cricket.

P. M. TWEDDELL

S.C.M.

The group has had a successful year with one or two notable highlights. The Christmas Term began with two discussions on "Politics and Religion," followed by a similar meeting on "Science and Religion." Films on Indian life and art, shown at the next meeting, were an interesting preparation for the excellent talk given on December 1st by the Rev. J. A. J. Binks, an Old Boy, who is now a missionary in South India. Christmas readings from a number of members concluded the first term's series of meetings.

Fewer meetings have been held during the Easter Term., but the co-operation of all produced an interesting series of talks by members ranging from "The Merits and Weaknesses of Liturgical Services" to "Church Doors" and "The Prologue to the Fourth Gospel." Similar co-operation produced a fine Easter Garden as the basis of a display for Open Evening. The climax of the term for the group was the S.C.M. Conference held at the School on March 22nd, attended by Sixth Form boys and girls from schools in the surrounding district, who met to discuss "The Authority of the Bible." The morning session, after a brief word of welcome from the Headmaster, was led by the Rev. Canon C. K. Sansbury, D.D., Warden of St. Augustine's College, Canterbury, who spoke on "How to think about the Bible." Dr. Sansbury, advocating "Modernism." emphasised that the Gospels must be approached in the light of Old Testament development and Early Church history. He also pointed out that our interpretation of the Bible should not ignore modern knowledge, especially science.

After this lecture the Conference divided into 10 groups, each guided by a group-leader, and meeting in the Hall, Library or some other room, where fruitful discussions took place as was revealed by the number of profound questions raised at the following plenary meeting. After the speaker had dealt very skilfully with the wide variety of questions, the Conference members had lunch. During this interval, as at other times during the day, visitors spent both time and money at the bookstall, which had a large number of useful books and pamphlets for sale.

Procedure in the afternoon session followed closely the pattern of the morning, the Headmaster welcoming the Rev. Eric Fenn, B.Sc.. Editorial Secretary of the British and Foreign Bible Society, who gave a thoughtful lecture on "How to interpret the Bible." The Rev. Fenn spoke of the Bible's "rich conception of truth," and emphasised what he considered the clue to Biblical interpretation—the relation of the contents of the Bible to its central theme of how man's broken relationship with God is restored. Once again the Conference met in small groups and returned to the Hall, this time with a large number of more practical questions. After these questions had been answered this stimulating and instructive conference ended with a short "Act of Worship," led by the Rev. J. S. C. Miller, General Secretary of the S.C.M. in Schools.

J. W. G. HOGBIN

LIBRARY NOTES

Notable among the recent 140 additions to the Library are:

03/54 Oxford Junior Encyclopaedia. Vol. XII.

03/55 Oxford Junior Encyclopaedia, Vol. VIII.

         Oxford Companion to Music.

442/44 Science and Christian Belief—Coulson.

57/151 Albert Schweitzer—Seaver.

57/154 Alexander the Great—Savill.

39/8 Myth or Legend—Daniel.

72/185 Hamlet. Father and Son—Alexander.

30/95 Illustrated History of Science—Taylor.

22/7 Western Europe—Laborde.

730/58 Collected Poems, 1954—C. Day Lewis.

9/B/159 Realms of Gold—Baker.

9/T/50 The Eagles Have Flown—Treece.

 

Thanks to the willing co-operation of boys from U.IV. U.V and the VI Form, without whose valuable assistance the library would not function at all, the new order of books was quickly and efficiently dealt with. Work on the large rebinding programme was resumed and considerable progress was made on the project. initiated by Barrett last year, to introduce the new ticket system into the Library.

Some boys have set an example to be emulated in presenting a book to the Library on leaving School. "The Goodwin Sands," presented by C. Marsh. is one of these additions that has proved very popular.

The restrictions on the use of the Library are obviously undesirable but nevertheless necessary until a new scheme can be introduced to keep a careful check on books.

J. F. MUMMERY

THE CHESS CLUB

This year the use of the Library was regained for the activities of the Club, and meetings were held there on Mondays throughout the Autumn and Spring Terms. Although there was a good entry for the annual competition for the Chess Cup, attendances in general have not been very large, owing mainly to a noticeable lack of support from the 2nd and 3rd Forms.

R.S.

STAMP CLUB

Since the return of Mr. Hull after his illness we have had a very successful term. Mr. Denham gave a very exciting talk on his sports stamps which was thoroughly enjoyed by all members, and we also held an exhibition for which many entries were received. This was judged by Mr. Hull. The routine of the Club is to hold a quiz, then a lucky dip, and finally the main item on the agenda. This year we had many newcomers from the first forms who take a very great interest in the Club. Those interested should note that we have some catalogues which are lent out each week.

A. R. B. (Hon. Sec.)

THE P.T. CLUBS

Included in the School's Jubilee Celebrations was a display given by the members of the P.T. Club. With the absence of Mr. Elliott the organizing of practices was done by Lees. Mr. Ruffell helped on arranging rehearsals on the stage. Despite the presence of a considerable amount of equipment belonging to the Dramatic Society and the Puppet Club, everything went well on the night of the American Supper.

During the Christmas Term the Junior and Senior P.T. Clubs were organized again. Attendance at both clubs was quite good.

Mr. Elliott put a considerable amount of his own time into preparations for the two P.T. Competitions and for the Open Evening Displays. As a result both went well.

On the whole there has been a great improvement in the general standard of P.T. during the past few years, and some of the parents remarked on the high standard of agility in the displays.

P. J. WYATT

J. DADD, U.V.

SAILING

"Pharos II." the second "Heron" class dinghy to be built at this School, is well on the way to completion. It is set up in the woodwork shop ready to be planked, and the sails have now arrived. They are light blue in colour and the number, 551, when compared with the 296 of the previous boat, shows the popularity of this class of dinghy.

Experienced gained in making "Pharos I" has been put to good use, and although some difficulties have arisen mistakes have been avoided. Materials remaining from the previous craft have been used up, making this a cheaper boat. The bow sections of the boat are rather fine, and this suggests that it should sail better to windward than "Pharos I." Actual building commenced in February, and it is hoped that the boat will be completed by the early part of next term.

1st XI SOCCER

With few players left from the previous year's team it was not expected that the 1955 side would have a distinguished record. Early defeats confirmed these apprehensions, but time worked wonders, and through the second half of the term the team was playing with spirit, cohesion and confidence, even if still without any great artistry. The final record was excellent, no match being lost, after mid-October. The F.A. coach. Mr. E. Webster. had something to do with this transformation of eleven runners, jumpers, gymnasts and kickers into a team of footballers. So, too, had the captain. K. Marsh, who held the team together and set an example of whole-hearted effort, never more so than in the match at St. Edmund's, Canterbury.

On his left, Sutton was the best ball-player in the side and never played a poor game. Marjoram covered a lot of ground and Crush, the goalkeeper, improved with every match. Davidson scored some good goals and, like all the rest of the side, was notable for whole-hearted effort.

Colours were re-awarded to Marsh and newly awarded to Sutton, Marjoram and Davidson. Others who played were: Horton, Long, MeCaig, Dawkins, Goldsmith, Roberts and Dedman.

Results:—

Dover Rangers. Home. Lost 6—0.

Dover Rangers Reserves., Home. Won 4—2.

Borden Grammar School Away. Lost 7—3.

Harvey Grammar School: Away. Won 3—1.

Ashford Grammar School. Home. Lost 2—1.

Wye College. Away. Lost 3—0.

Harvey Grammar School. Home. Won 4—0.

Ashford Grammar School. Away, won 2—0.

St. Edmunds. Away. won 3—1.

Simon Langton's. Away. Won 5—3.

Wye College. Home. Won 2—0.

Simon Langton's. Home. Won 4—0.

Maxton Reserves. Home. Won 13—0.

Old Boys. Home. Won 6—2.

Old Boys. Home. Drawn 2—2.
Won 10; Lost 4; Drawn 1; Goals for 52; Goals against 28.

—:—

FOOTBALL

2nd XI

Results: Played 9; Won 6; Drawn 2; Lost 1.

The foundation of the successful season enjoyed by the team was a steady half-back line which was always staunch in defence and ready to back up the attack. As the season developed an excellent team spirit was built up in which everyone felt on equal terms, and played the game for the joy of it, instead of a matter of duty. The forwards, although shy of showing their talent in the first two matches, soon found the necessary eagerness lo hit the back of the net, and by the end of the season had amassed a total of 35 goals. The backs usually kept their opposing wingers well in check and the goalkeeper, by various means, not all of which are found in the text-book, succeeded in preventing any side from scoring more than three goals.

Team: Mummery, Gardiner, Adams. Chawner, Brady, Bayford, Laslett, Garrow, Goldsmith, Brown, Pique.

G. LASLETT

—:—

Under 15

This was a most successful season. The team was well served in all departments and its only real struggle came in the match versus St. Edmund's when, with the help of Skinner and Thompson. they managed to defeat an under 16 side.

With Burkimsher, Goldsack and Maddison playing for Dover Boys, the side was never a settled one. The following also played in one or more matches: Aspinall, Atkins, Bailey, Fordham, Gillie, Golding, Hopkins, Hudsmith, Hudson, Jones E., Langston, Murrell, Pepper and Wellard.

Results—

Home: Ashford G.S. 0; School 11.

Away: Royal Marines 0: School 4.

Home: Royal Marines 0; School 10.

Away: Ashford G.S. 0; School 9.

Home: Sr. Edmund's 3; School 5.

Away: Duke of York's 1; School 6.

Juniors

The U.14 and U.13 XI's have enjoyed some keen games. If the eventual result has as often as not been defeat, this can be partly attributed, especially in the case of the younger team, to the exacting conditions: grounds were unusually heavy this season, and our forwards small.

Certain players deserve particular mention. In the U.14 defence Clyres was strong and intelligent, while his wing-halves, Stevens and Corry (who captained the side), played complementary roles very capably. The forward line was well led by Graham. The U.13 defence as a whole did well, especially in covering: Rees and Duffy were difficult to beat, and they had behind them in Gerrard a reassuring goalkeeper, Hudson and Wheeler, on the wings, were the most thrustful forwards.

It remains to say that we saw an innovation in Junior School Soccer this year: a team of Under-12's was specially chosen by Mr. Ruffell to oppose Chatham House School. The weather again interfered, but both games, home and away, were closely contested. This team maintained its unbeaten record against Deal Secondary School.

Results—

	P	W	D	L	F	A
U.14	8	4	1	3	30	19
U.13	5	2	0	3	12	11
U.12	4	2	2	0	11	4

RUGGER
1st XV

For the second year in succession the rugby programme was savagely mutilated by the weather. After the regular trials, when the shape of a 1st XV was becoming recognisable, unusually heavy snow prevented any further play till after Half Term, when we met King's Canterbury Colts. In the muddy conditions, our considerable advantage in weight enabled us to win this attractive fixture for the first time in the five years since it was inaugurated—frost or snow has caused its cancellation on two occasions. However, the team showed promise, and there was certainly thrust and determination on the part of the three-quarters, even though the centres neglected their wings.

Of the remaining games, that against R.M. Boys at Deal was won in peculiar, improvised circumstances, and that against Dover "A" lost on penalty goals alone. The first impression of the display against Dover was one of disappointment; but the opposition certainly had some strong running outsides in addition to a hefty pack, and it must be admitted that their three-quarters were ultimately stopped even if orthodox, low tackling played little part in the procedure. Marsh's touch kicking was invaluable, but our own attacks were little more than individual bursts.

The Old Pharosians' match remains to be played on March 31st—the Saturday after term ends.

Of course, the House Competition was affected, too, and though (after rearrangement) the 1st team matches were all played off, the 2nd XV games could be completed only by telescoping them into one hour's play.

School 1st XV.—Colours: Marsh K., Hannaford, Adams, Sholl, Richards, Gardiner. Other players: Crush, Marjoram, Dedman, Lees, Booth J., Davidson, Forsyth, Wyatt, Darwood, Long, Bowles.

Results—

School 8pts.; King's Colts 3pts.

School 11pts.; R.M. Boys nil.

School 6pts.; Dover "A" 12pts.

Under 16 XV

Once again the weather curtailed the fixture list, but three games were played. two being won and one lost. The lack of a reliable place-kicker lost points, but the enthusiasm and determination of the team made up for any deficiencies in the skill of the game. Teams were selected from: Walder (captain), Abbott, Allingham, Boddy, Booth, Constable, Crouch, Hibbert, Holman, Mackie, Marsh, McCaig, Moore, Morris. Muskett, Relf, Rogers, Theobald and Woodcock.

Results—

School 0; King's Under 15 XV 23.

School 23; R.M. Boys nil.

Deal Secondary School 3; School 6.

Under 15

The team had on the whole a good season. Although two matches were literally washed out they were replaced by games against the Third and Fifth Forms. The game against Sandwich was a walkover which none of the team enjoyed. The hardest game, but most enjoyable was against Aylesham. Although the team lost it did so in very good spirit. It was a game we should have won, but for some reason the whole team did not "click."

Injuries were a great setback, and team members had to withdraw a good deal. The team owes a lot to its captain. John Goldsack, and it was his initiative and speed which beat Sandwich. The back, Golding, played splendidly all through the season, and was practically unsurpassed by any player. The threequarters, in Gerry, Prue, Hutt and Grieves, played well but not outstandingly. The forwards all played well, and on the whole got the ball out very cleanly, and under the leadership of Hopper did the donkey work. Forwards: Hopper, Johnson, Groombridge, Crouch, Taylor, Burkimisher, Leonard, Maddison, and Langston.

Results—

v. Sandwich won.

v. Ayesham lost 6—5.

Played 2; Lost 1.

CROSS-COUNTRY RUNNING (Picture)

The season proved to be disappointing. Since the team was clearly not going to be a strong one this year it was decided not to enter for the County Championships held during the Christmas holidays, and training did not begin until January. Then two prolonged periods of deep snow were experienced, and the result was that of the two matches arranged for the term one had to be cancelled owing to lack of training.

The last fixture, run at Folkestone on the second Wednesday in March, against Harvey Grammar School and Dover College, resulted as was feared, in a heavy defeat for the School. Our first man home was Southern, and he was placed 11th. The total points were: Harvey 32; D.C. 55; School 91.

The junior team was even more affected by the weather for the S.E. Kent Championship, which we won last year, was cancelled because no school had been able to prepare for it. Those few stalwarts who had done some training, however, were able to put this to good use in an inter-form match and in the Powell Cup. The latter, held right at the end of the term, resulted in a clear victory for Frith. with 23 points.

Park was second with 19, Priory had 16, and Astor 13. The individual winner was Brady, who completed the course in the remarkably fast time of 22 minutes 7 seconds, while the runner-up was Long.

In the University Cross-Country match Forster finished 3rd, being the first Cambridge man home. He was awarded a full Blue.

He is also the present Cross-Country Champion of Kent.

HOUSE GYMNASTIC COMPETITIONS

Junior and Senior competitions were again held, Astor winning in both sections.

Owing to absences and a smaller contribution to the teams from the First Forms, the standard of work shown by the juniors was below that of last year. Wheeler again won the individual championship.

Practice sessions had been well attended and House gymnastic captains deserve commendation for their careful selection and preparation of teams. They were given an additional responsibility this year; in the work and fixed apparatus—wall-bars, beams, and ropes—they were required to command their own teams in the performance of exercises of their own choosing.

The senior competition was judged by Mr. P. Baxter, Physical Education Advisor, K.E.C. In his remarks, he commented on the generally high standard of work and the smart appearance of all teams. Although favourably impressed by the work of the House captains, he urged them to be more decisive in the control of their teams and to pay closer attention to detail.

Davidson, Lees and Pique again had the three highest scores. This time Lees finished one point ahead of Davidson to win the Pascall Cup.

Results—

	Astor	Frith	Park	Priory
Juniors	278	241	254	215
Seniors	476	385	393	430
Totals	754	626	647	745

 
Individual Placings—

Roberts 49	Seniors Lees 67
Smith 42	Davidson 66
Johnson 42	Pique 61
Bevan 42

 

J. P. MOUSEDALE, M.V.

FORM NOTES

Middle One

Our form is one of great variety. The pupils range from hard- working boys to the sort of people who fill the Order-Mark book. We will now relate a true event that occurred in a music lesson. The music master was explaining the times of tunes and a certain boy was not attending, so that when the master played a tune and asked what the time was, he replied: "Ten to four, sir."

The Form had a very good football team, and has also managed to publish three issues of a magazine.

D. COLLINS

J. CASTLE

Upper One

Our poor Form Master. Mr. Home, We really are a terrible form; There's McPherson taking a rest And Pearson really doing his best. Morris, the man from outer space, Dreams of stars on a planet; He's really not in the human race And ought to be hit with a mallet. I pity Mr. Marriott, Who copes with this frightful lot; When we take Latin it'll be even worse, Especially Latin in song and verse. At football we are a shocking bore And have not won a game yet. For no one will help to raise our score, But we may do better at cricket. M. PINCHES

Middle II

On arriving at School after the summer holidays we found the master appointed to replace Mr. Dale was to be our Form Master.

So far, we have had two major casualties: Burke, who broke his arm, was followed by Grieg, who broke his wrist.

During the Christmas Term two boys from our form, Rees and Gerrard, played in the Under XIII XI.

It might be mentioned that Fouet, after throwing a bottle with a message inside it into the sea at Deal, received a letter from Denmark informing hiim that it had reached that coast after five months at sea.

C. LEWIS

Upper III

Deaths.—We regret to announce the death of an U.3 entertainment. Passed suddenly away after 7 months' illness.

For Sale.—Two violins and one cello (apply on Mondays), one corpse, a packet of dirt sandwiches, and a quarter of pepper-filled chocolates.

Wanted.—One gas chamber (prefect size), master-sized electric chair (with tray for ashes), one rack, several yards of strong rope (noose if possible) and fifty cardboard-type coffins.

Town Port and Garrison.—It is with regret that we find it necessary to announce that one of our greatest entertainers is on his way "down under."

They say.

They say that U.III knows the days of the week in French now.

They say that Mont-Blanc has been torn down twice already.

They say that we have the Dead Sea Scrolls on the top of our cupboard.

They say that if you think it's cold ask Capt. Oates.

They say that U.3 have a zoo, an aquarium, an aviary, and a greengrocer's shop on our back wall.

They say that our clock only goes when it feels like it.

They say that two of our brethren were condemned to be deported to France this Easter.

News from the Districts.

Shepherdswell: Our member for Shepherdswell informs us that the dinosaur-shooting season has just commenced.

Hougham: The Council received a petition from the people of Hougham requesting two 'buses per year instead of the present one.

Middle IV

This year, as is usual in the Fourth. Middle IV was split into two sections, these of the technical and basic. We have, as a result, been joined by Lower IV and are considered a particularly "tough lot."

We have been exceptionally good at sport, although we have no allocated games period. Three members of the form have played in School soccer teams, five have played rugby for the School, while at least eleven of us have played House rugby. Outstanding players are Goldsack and Maddison, who play for Dover Boys' XI.

There has been a sudden enthusiasm for Cross-Country Running, as we near the Powell Cup: New talent, apart from Prickett and Goldsack, has been found in the form of Woolmore and Matthews, who actually ran to the milestone and back in one dinner hour—a stupendous feat!

Our charity fund is forever fluctuating, £1:10:0 for one half term and something like 9½d. for the other.

DA COSTA

Upper IV

By the time these notes reach the printed page of "The Pharos" they will have been altered beyond recognition. They are usually handed back to be rewritten, but this time they have been left to the last afternoon of term, so I hope it will be too late for this.

So far this year we have, as usual, done nothing. We much prefer our form room to previous ones as there are chairs, which have many uses.

A grand charity total 17s. 5d. was collected this term by our excellent Charity Monitor. We have not played any soccer or rugger games, but have several members in the Under-15 teams.

D.J.C.

Upper V

It's absolutely amazing! We've been at dear old Alma Mater for five years and are now considered fit specimens for G.C.E. (O).

Let's look at the specimens:—

Come in through the door, if it opens—sorry we cannot offer you anything more original, but the window's not open yet, it's waiting for spring—stand in that spare corner; quiet now, don't disturb them. That leaves three other corners, all of which are occupied, one by a wastepaper basket and built-in Charity Monitor, one by a coal-heaving chair, and the last by two young men playing T.T. on two desks.

Overheard in P.S.:—

Can you imagine 3½ minutes—that's stamina for you.

Of course, their hair-style and ties clash but —

Did the Romans eat red herrings?

Modern American-type rounders—bah!

Vive la République, mate.

MARMADUKE

VIth Economics

(Apologies to L.I.)

We have now been here for seven years, and we like all our masters. We have had a very good football season. We played three games and nearly won them all. We beat VI Arts 17—0, but rain stopped play at half-time. The other two were cancelled, so we had a good average.

Then we thought about playing rugby, but the ball would not bounce properly.

(We cannot maintain this standard, but must regrettably lapse into VI Form illiteracy—prevalent among Science Students.)

I'm really writing these notes, but a certain elongated menace insists that the credit be shared as I'm using his pen!

In general the form consists of five people, three of whom, by a strange coincidence, have the Christian name of Charles. We other two are abnormally handsome and intelligent, although the latter fact is disputed by one or two bare-legged school fellows.

The magnetic call of "green-ones" has led to the regrettable absence of A.C.2 Harry. He is enjoying the luxuries of sick bay—absentee monitor please note.

The February exams. called for a multitude of diseases, but despite the abundance of microbes we could trap none. There followed a week of strenuous mental exercise, resulting in the prolonged recuperation of the medulla-oblongata.

DOUG.

Upper VIth Science

Comparative account of the families found in the Taxononological Survey of the Order Recktawrenciales, being a further article in the Science Survey series.

The recent survey of this Order revealed several startling features. It was found possible to divide the order into four main families, namely Physicofiddlaceae, Mathematicaceae, Alchemaceae and Biologaceae. All these families appeared to be interbred, as no pure-bred individual was observed. At the time of the survey fifteen species were identified, which showed a considerable reduction in the number found during a similar survey two years ago. Then the Order was known by its older name of Coulsonales. An intermediate name used was Kendales. The latter fell into disuse last July. A specie observed for the first time, notable for a distinctive physiognomy, has already proved that breakages do occur in semi-micro.

A most outstanding characteristic of the Order was a tendency to philogyny, more especially in the flirtaceous species. Approximately each half of the order are to be found congregated in two different habitats. The night club, complete with dark-room, appears to be the favourite rendezvous when certain gynaecious visitors arrive. The other place is both an ecivoned and an entrivfoecalp. This is the home of floor hockey and the jazz band (including school bell), but it was felt
that the best was the 'ancient game.' Unfortunately there was the presence of another two species, which are not from the Recklawrencales, Homulum Innignum and Bious Sagitarius. The former has also been noticed in two lesser forms, one in the ecivoned.

Thus it can be established that Recklawrencales are, on the whole, very decent lot to whom work is an unnecessary evil and who are vastly superior to the Arteales in mental ability and physical attainment.

THE BUGS

== HOUSE NOTES==

Astor

May I start the House Notes by saying how grateful Astor is for the work done by Obree and Rogers in our most successful 1954-55 season in which we obtained the House Championship.

The Christmas Term was a trifle disappointing in that we only came 2nd to Frith in the Soccer competition. In this respect the seniors failed the House, for the 2nd XI did not win a game. We can be thankful that owing to the efforts of the juniors we kept very close to Frith all through the competition and lost first place by only 2%.

The Spring Term was again disappointing, for we took 3rd place in the Ebbw Vale Rugby Cup competition, and 4th place in the Powell Cup race. The latter result was due, not to a lack of keenness—which augers well for the House in the future—but to individual ability. We were, however, successful in the House P.T. competition in which we took 1st place in both the senior and junior sections. Congratulations to Davidson and Wheeler in organising the respective teams. This success still gives us a chance to win the House Championship Shield again.

As can be seen from the above resumé of the present School Year we cannot afford to rest on past laurels. In the coming Summer Term everyone must make a greater effort to bring Astor to the top again. We still have a very good chance if everyone does his very best to gain standard points in the athletics and swimming. Greater enthusiasm over cricket is essential to ensure success.

K.M.

Frith

Frith are in second place in the House Challenge Competition at this halfway stage. During this year we have already won the Football Cup and the Powell Cross-country Cup, in connection with which particular mention must be made of Long, Goldsack and Prickett, who ran very well. In rugby we took second place, even though we fielded two comparatively strong XV's. As in previous years the gymnastic competition has been our stumbling block. Next term we must endeavour to regain these points, particularly in athletics and cricket. We shall very much rely on the Lower School this year to help us in the swimming competition. With a concentrated effort next term from all forms we have every chance of pulling up to the top.

B.D.C.

Park

Both juniors and seniors of Park House have shown a marked increase in keenness this year, especially in the latter case. This has not been at all unrewarded, for now at the end of the Easter Term we are at the head of the House Championship Table.

Although it was left to the 2nd XI to redeem our position in the soccer, both rugby XV's did very well to gain such a lead over our rivals.

We gained second place in the P.T. and cross-country, and possess the champions of each in Lees and Brady, whose efforts are greatly appreciated.

So far this year our success is due to the whole-hearted backing up of our few "stars" by the majority of the average performers. This excellent spirit is one to be valued in the approaching Summer Term if we are to continue successfully with cricket and athletics.

J.R.D.

Priory

Although we may not have fared as badly as last year. Priory can, as yet, claim no better position in the House Championship. This cannot be explained solely by reference to the poor nature of the material which is available. A school without the competitive spirit which many members of the House have failed to provide this year resembles England without a Football League or a County Cricket Championship. If certain boys do not learn to fulfil their obligations now they never will.

The less said about our soccer performances the better. It suffices to say that the unsuccessful, yet praiseworthy, efforts of the seniors were redeemed by some of the juniors. In the P.T. competitions the position was reversed, junior members failing to show the enthusiasm for training which led to the excellent performance of our seniors. In the rugby competition, which invariably decides the entire House Championship on account of the fewer number of games involved, the 1st XV was unexpectedly defeated in every match. This disappointment can be attributed partly to an insufficient knowledge of the game among the forwards and partly to an unfortunate crop of injuries. The vociferous, scrappy, but better-judged, performance of the 2nd XV rescued us from the humiliation of registering 0%. The disappointment was greater in the cross-country race for the Powell Cup, where slender hopes of victory were by no means fulfilled. One cannot condone the attitude of boys who gain 8 places in the first 15 finishers in an inter-form race and treat the inter-House competition with such apathy that the corresponding figures are 3 in the first 20.

Experience has taught us that ground lost after two terms can rarely be retrieved by more than a fraction during the third. However, as we possess our best performers in athletics, cricket and swimming, there is still no reason why Priory should not gain second place in the Challenge Shield. But such a position can be achieved only by a more loyal attitude in every compartment of our activities, from the Sixth Form to the First Form. Firstly this involves, among other important rules, much more instantaneous apologies for failures to fulfil one's commitments or to gain standard points well within one's ability. Secondly, boys must eradicate the habit, at present far too prevalent, of changing, when they go on to the field, the teams' positions posted up on the notice board.

J.R.B.

VALETE

BOLTON R. (1948). Deputy Head Prefect, C.C.F. (Army Scction)—C.S.M. Senior Cadet), Dram. Soc., Phoenix Club, Puppet Club, Rugby (S.1, H.1), Cricket (H.1), Swimming (H.1), G.C.E., O. (6), A. (2). To Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.

It is with very deep regret that we have to record the death of GRAHAM PIGGOTT, 1946-1954, Head Prefect and Priory House Captain. The following tribute to him has been received from B. Sheppard, a contemporary of his:— >From our fourth year to our second year in the Upper Sixth Form, when we both left to go to University, Graham Piggott and I were very close friends, and consequently the news of his tragic and untimely death at the age of only twenty-one years was a sad shock to me. His was a life of hard work and well-deserved achievement. Briefly, after passinig a Civil Service examination at the end of his fifth year he decided to stay on in the Sixth Form to study for the advanced Level of the General Certificate of Education, which he later passed in three subjects, gaining a distinction in Physics. In addition, he was awarded a State Scholarship and a place at Hull University. Although he was studying Science he managed to avoid the trap that so many scientists fall into and retained his interest in many other varied fields. Athletics was his main interest, but he excelled at most sports and represented the School in all of them. In addition he had a keen and lively interest in art and music and was a very enthusiastic member of all the School musical societies. Above all, he was a good Christian and a very clean living person. He was a very fine prefect and School captain, and had a power of command and leadership which blended sternness and humour in exactly the right proportions. He was an example of what every Grammar School boy should be: hard working, hard playing, and a very staunch supporter of his School in all its activities. Finally, he was an excellent friend and companion, and will be sadly missed by all who came into contact with him and felt his influence, particularly his parents, who were justifiably proud of him, and his fiancée, to whom he had been engaged for only a few months. May 'he rest in' peace, and his example live for ever.

== OLD PHAROSIAN NEWS==

At the Annual General Meeting held on Friday, 25th November, 1955, in the Council Chamber, by kind permission of His Worship the Mayor, the Officers, as recorded in this number of "The Pharos," were elected for the current year.

The annual Reunion again took place in December last, at the Town Hall, when Old Boys and friends met together to make it a real social success. They were representative of many year-groups from 1905 to the present time; what was particularly pleasing was the presence of so many younger members, who seized the opportunity of remembering old feuds and fancies and of exchanging accounts of their new experiences.

It has been decided that the A.G.M. for 1956 shall be held on 26th October, at 7 p.m. The Committee has put forward the suggestion that this be a short brisk A.G.M., and that it should be followed at 8 p.m. by an Old Boys' Dinner at the Café de Paris. The Committee feel that the traditional Annual Dinner should be revived so that Old Boys can meet again.

Another function which the Committee desire to bring to the notice of Old Pharosians is the Flannel Dance. This, they suggest, should be held at the School and follow the Cricket Match which has been fixed for 21st July.

Will all Old Boys then, keep these dates in mind:

21st July.—Cricket Match and Flannel Dance at the School.

26th October.—A.G.M. and Dinner.

27th December.—Annual Reunion.

Your Hon. Sec. was pleased to receive recently a letter from Major J. H. T. Waight from Singapore. He writes: "Please convey my greetings and best wishes for 1956 to all Old Pharosians at your next meeting. They will all be interested to learn that a brother officer serving in Singapore is also a D.G.S. boy—'Bunny' Austin—while the Padre at Alexandra Garrison Church, in the grounds of the British Military Hospital, is also a Pharosian, John Peacock."

H.R.S.

OLD PHAROSIANS

NEWS OF OLD BOYS

MAJOR I. C. AUSTIN has a staff job in the R.A.E.C. at Singapore. His son, David, is in the same area as a Sergeant Instructor teaching English to Malayian recruits. Another Old Pharosian on Major Austin's staff is Bill Wainte, who was recently at the Duke of York's School.

D. C. BELSEY has been playing rugby for the Wasps, for whom D. G. SIMMONDS has been playing with great distinction when not performing equaly notably for the R.A.F.

R. BOTTOM has been doing preliminary training before moving into the main buildings at Sandhurst. From what he has to say the Army changes little.

CAPTAIN BRUCE BRABHAM has resigned his commission in the Royal Corps of Signals and has taken an appointment with Standard Telephones. His brother, Basil, is second-in-command of Colour, TV. research.

B. F. J. BUDDLE is an apprentice on a tanker operating between the Middle East, the Far East and Australia.

P. J. BURVILLE has left the R.A.F. and passed the exam, for the P.O. Engineering Service.

R. A. CROFTS, M.Comm., is flying to U.S.A., Canada, India and Japan as economic advisor to the Prime Minister of Nigeria.
 

BRUCE DAVIDSON has been a member of aircrews dropping supplies to our troops in Malayan jungles.

J. E. DILNOT called at School at the end of the Easter Term. He is doing his National Service before going to Cambridge, and has found a comfortable corner in the office of the Education Officer at Colchester. His views are very interesting.

COLIN FULLER and his brother FRANK are both at Bulawayo in engineering. They say that J. R. McMANUS is "cooking the books for a local engineering firm. M. HARRISON came into School several times while on leave from his duties with the Rhodesian Police.

B. HALL called at School before going off by air to the Monte Belle islands to assist in the atomic experiments there. He is normally stationed at Aldermaston Research Centre. Hall is flying out via the Middle East and back via the Pacific. There is something to be said for Government service: it should also be said that Hall has to study a great deal.

C. A. HART, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, had the honour of receiving Her Majesty during her recent visit to his University.

R. JENKINS completed his Sandhurst course a year ago and is commissioned in the Seaforth Highlanders. He is at present at Gibraltar when not on a course in U.K. or down at Aden when trouble develops there.

J. Le PREVOST, who was Deputy Head Prefect in 1933, is in Education Administration in Singapore.

The Rev. J. A. MORTEN preached at London Road Methodist Church at Easter.

R. MERGER (known at School as Rudi) is manager of the aluminium section of Enfield Rolling Mills, Ltd.. at Bradford.
 

D. MOORE goes in for road walking. He does 15 miles in about 2+ hours, but says he must get down to 2-hours to do well in the sport.

G. W. NEWSON called at School recently while on leave from his Naval training at Portsmouth. His brother, P.L., is in the Metropolitan Police stationed at west Central.

R. OBREE reports that the Old Pharosians at University College, London, are all in good heart, with the possible exception of MARSH, who has to take Finals this
year.

E. PELHAM is now Principal of the Hertfordshire Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture.

B. N. ROGERS has been a member of the Cranwell cross-country team and has greatly enjoyed the experience.

D. SUTER has been a Major in the Arab Legion. We do not know how recent events have affected his position.

C. M. R. TYRELL, who left about 1925, is in the plain clothes branch of the C.I.D. at Harwich.

H. R. WATKINS, of 6 Science (1938), is with the firm of Courtaulds, in Coventry.

J. WRIGHT is in the Metropolitan Police stationed in the Elephant and Castle district where, in his own words, "they keep one busy." He tells us that J. ROOTS, of the west End Division, has just passed his exam, to be a sergeant.

THE OLD BOYS' RUGBY MATCH

Because Easter arrived so early this year it was possible to play this match on Easter Saturday, the first Saturday after end of term. This permitted the Old Boys' to include a number on vacation from College on leave from the Services, or just home in Dover for Easter. On the other hand the School had lost one or two on educational visits to Paris, or on less educational holidays elsewhere.

The weather was by the North Sea out of Europe, blowing coldly from the bike-shed end. With this behind them and a lot of big chaps in their pack the Old Boys had the best of the first half. Obree got a try and Brooshooft got a penalty goal, but Jenkins received a badly cut eye and did not resume in the second half. This made play more even, though the Old Boys continued to get the ball to their backs, among whom Piggott, Painter and Reay were often individually effective.

The School tackled well and stuck to their task, keeping further scoring down to one try by Piggott.

The Old Boys' XV: Brooshooft, Piggott, Wright, Lawrence, Painter, Reay, Reader, Obree, Moore, Ivory, Bolton, Jenkins, Knott, Fisher, Lott.

Referee: Mr. Jacques.

Touch judges: Kine and Grabham.

== PARENTS' ASSOCIATION==

The Association joined the School in bidding farewell to Mrs. King. Cook-Housekeeper, at the Prefects' Dance, when presentations were made for many years' faithful service. Mrs. King had served the Association as committee member and had contributed to the success of most of our functions at the School by providing refreshments which were always most appetising and reasonable in price. To mark the appreciation of the members Mrs. King was presented with a case of tea knives by Mrs. F. J. Rhodes on behalf of the Association. We were sorry to say goodbye to Mrs. King. and we feel that she was sorry to leave us.

We are glad to welcome in her place Miss Beets, who has consented to serve on the Committee and to assist us at events which are held at the School.

There was a good attendance of parents to hear a talk by Mr. H. J. Prickett, Headmaster of Kent College, Canterbury. entitled. "Outward Bound. A Parable of Adolescent Development."

The clock in the Headmaster's study could tell many tales. Tales of achievement and disappointment, of congratulation and correction. But now it has a new one to relate. The weather on the night of the Association Social was atrocious with a biting wind and many inches of snow on all approaches to the School. It was thought that none would tackle the hazards of a climb up the hill . . . and cancellation of the event was considered. However, it was eventually decided to carry on and twenty members arrived—surely the very core of the Association. The Hall looked very large for such a small party—and in any case. it seemed a pity to disturb the long rows of desks which indicated the concerted efforts of Fifth Form boys that week! So, Mr. Booth kindly invited us to his study where, in comfort we were able to enjoy an intimate evening together. A miniature beetle drive was followed by refreshments served by Miss Beets, who had also braved the elements, on our behalf. Finally some parlour games and charades brought the evening to a close. It is said that the clock passes on information to all form-rooms—I wonder whether it told of the charades?

The weather was kinder on the occasion of the Film evening, however, and about sixty parents, as well as senior boys, enjoyed a programme of films on careers, introduced by Mr. Young, Youth Employment Officer.

On Open Evening, when many parents visited the School, the Association held a sale of discarded School uniform and sports equipment. All parents are asked to join the Association and to help in its work for School and boys.

J. BELSHAM.
Hon. Secretary and Treasurer.

SUMMER CONCERT

The Music Master. Mr. Best, is organising a concert in aid of the piano fund in the School Hall at 7.30 p.m., on 21st July. There will be organ solos, items by choir and orchestra, and solos, vocal and instrumental, by boys and old boys. Tickets will be 2s., boys 1s.