Je(lesmerfari

Vol. LIX.
May, 1949

No. 265

CONTENTS
Editorial School Officers School Notes Canon Maynard Smith House Notes War Memorial Subscription List John Brunt Memorial House Plays Chapel Notes Chapel Music Music Society House Music Competition 59 60 60 62 ~3 69 69 72 73 73 74 75 Seven Club The Thespians The Ellesmerian Society C.C.F. Notes Scout Notes Hockey Notes Squash Notes Steeplechase Athletics Contemporaries O.E. Chronicle

76 77 77 78
79
80 -

82 83 83 85

87

Editorial
Since 1940 The Ellesmerlan has been published only twice a year. There have been many good reasons for this, but there can be no doubt that it has been unwelcome to all at the School (except the Editor) and to the increasingly large number of O.E's who do us the kindness to read and criticise our production. It has now been decided that it is time to resume publication termly, even though little more than a bare record of our week-byweek activities is here printed. The inevitable Editorial of school magazines contains cries for contributions to its pages. This Editorial will not. In our experience, if any boy has anything to contribute, he will pester the Editor with his efforts. Contributions which result from pressure advertise the fact plainly, and are as little appreciated by the reader as they were painful to the contributor. But we will continue to hope that a school of our size will have amongst its members some writers, perhaps even some poets; some artists, some photographers, or even an occasional spirit who feels impelled to send the Editor a letter of complaint. The main function of a school magazine is to be a record, to try to capture something of the atmosphere of the school. The bare record fails to achieve this, but it is all we are able to do this term.

For the many, this has been a carefree, happy Lent Term, and even those who have been pestered by worries which occasionally beset the happiest of families', have been helped to retain their equanimity by the beauty of the weather, the good health record, and the variety of school activities. We can, with some truth, say that the winters of today are not what they were. It is true that we have had cold winters in recent years, though this year, so far as we know, only one boy went skating during the winter, and he got wet through. But for many years the rainfall has been low, and the water table has fallen

60

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

so much that a new well has had to be sunk by the Pump House, forty feet beneath the old one. If water is reached at this depth, the shortage felt in recent times should be overcome. The only spell of uncomfortable weather came after a very successful Hockey season had been completed. The Steeplechase was run on a warm, sunny day, the Athletic Sports were skilfully managed as usual by Mr. Feist during a lovely week of bright sunshine, and although it was a cold and cloudy day for the Relay Sports, no rain fell. The C.C.F. chose one of the very few wet days for their field day. We publish in this issue an interim list of subscribers. to the War Memorial Chapel Completion Fund ana the J. H. C. Brunt Memorial Fund. These Funds are still open, and subscriptlons to the Secretary will be most warmly welcomed. £30,000 is required for the Chapel Fund.

School Officers
Captain of School D. E. Roberts. Prefect of Chapel K. J. Crane. Prefect of Hall .. R. D. Viney. School Prefects R. E. Farmer and W. P. Howells. Captain of Hockey . R. D. Viney. Captain of Athletics . D. E. Roberts. Captain of Squash .. R. D. Viney. Captain of Shooting D. G. Howells. Sacristan R. V. Haygarth. Librarians R. E. Farmer, J. R. Williams, R. V. Haygarth, D. Q. Miller, J. M. Savage, J. F. Lyle, F. H, Brown. N. H. Davies. C.S.M. . W. P. Howells. Sec. of Seven Club............... .. J. F. Lyle. Sec. of Hockey .. D. Pritchard. Sec. of Cricket . ... . .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . . .. .. . .. . . . . .. . .. . .. . . . .. R. B. Cole. Sec. of Ellesmerian Society D. Q. Miller. Sec. of Thespians .. J. F. Lyle. Sec. of Field Club . A. A. B. Browne. Sec. of Music Society F. H. Brown.

School

Notes

The Woodard Schools' Sports Meeting, for all boys' schools of the Society, will take place this year at Denstone on Sunday, May 22nd. We welcome to the staff this term P. H. Harwood, Esq., M.A., who has come to fill Mr. MacDonald's place as Classics Master. Mr. Harwood was educated at Wakefield School and graduated at University College, Oxford. He comes to Ellesmere after two years in the Royal Navy. Our congratulations are given to A. P. T. Hesketh on winning the Senior Steeplechase, and R. W. Anderson on winning the Junior Steeplechase; both events took place in fine weather on March 3rd. This year, there was a running commentary on the Steeplechase by members of the Signals Section of the C.C.F., who were placed at various parts of the course with wireless transmitters. The commentary was received perfectly at the College.

MAY, 1949.

THE ELLESMERIAN

61
the 24th February, and the

Two extra half-holidays have been given this term-on other on the day of the Steeplechase.

Three films have been shown this term-" A Canterbury Tale,' with Eric Portman, Dennis Price 'and Sheila Sim; "The Proud Valley," with Paul Robeson; "The Overlanders," with Chips Rafferty and Daphne Campbell. We are grateful to Mr. Jackson for giving up so much of his time to provide us with entertainment. The Chess Competition was won easily by Meynell House. A. M. Tasker, T. G. Archer and J. M. Leech.

Meynell won the Athletics Cup, with 408 points. Wakeman had 348, Talbot 222, and Woodard 94 points. The Relay Sports were also won by Meynell. We congratulate. the following Victores B. Koetser (Middles), R. W. Anderson (Junior).

••

Their

team
•

was

>]II Ludorum+sl,

P.

Parsonage
.

(Senior),

W~P. Howells must also be congratulated on being made a school prefect this term. In.the C.C.F., Captain has promoted Mr. W. E. W. Smith has been granted a commission.

* Feist
*

* been

*to

the rank

of Major.

Also,

The school offers its congratulations 'and best wishes for the future to the Provost, who has lately been nominated by the King to fill the vacant See of Exeter. We regret to announce the death former Principal of Ute Lichfie1d Theological College and Senior Chaplain to the Division before Canon Maynard Smith, whose own death Is reported elsewhere in this issue. The Vice-Provost, Canon Dibben, has been appointed Senior Chaplain to the Midland Division of the Woodard Schools. The School Committee met at Ellesmere on 11th March. The Provost visited the school twice during the term. The Venerable the Earl of Cavan also came to Ellesmere several times. The Vice-Provost and Senior Chaplain spent the last week-end of term here. At the December Examination of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, H. J. Downs, K. Moran and F. Smalley passed in Hie Preliminary Grade, and P. H. Tate in the Primary Grade. In March, W. H. A. Brown passed in the Elementary Grade. After Chapel on Saturday morning, 19th March, I. R. Walters, Esq., B.A., B.Mus.• the Adjudicator at the previous evening's House Music Competition, listened to and conducted the Choir. He expressed himself delighted at their skill and flexibility, and the Choir (and Choirmaster!) thoroughly enjoyed the all-too-short few minutes in fresh hands! In the December examinations, the following gained the Very Good mark in Latin: K. J. Crane, I. C. Howard, C. W. Moncrieff, P. L. Squire; D. H. Jones passed. R. G. James gained credit in History and General Science and passed in Geography. J. A. Parkes, A. A. Browne and R. D. Viney gained credits in English Language, and F. H. Brown a credit in Mathematics. We report, with deep regret, the death of Sir Charles Nicholson, Bart., famous architect of churches. He was responsible for adapting and changing the plans of Sir Aston Webb for our chapel, and the proposed extension of our chapel and the Lady Chapel have been designed by him. His last work for us was the advice he gave for the War Memorial Ta'blets which will shortly be placed in Ante-Chapel.

* * * * of the Revd. Canon Phillips, * *

* *

..

f~2
.....

:.i'HJt ELLESMERiAN
REV. CANON

VOL. LIx.

No. 2611

H. MAYNARD SMITH. D.O.

Our late Senior Chaplain died during the Christmas holidays. He had been unwell for eighteen months previously and had not visited Ellesmere for nearly two. years, but his memory is held dearly in the hearts o.f all who. learnt to. love him. Fo.r twenty years he visited the Wo.odard Schools, and many others, bringing to. them all blessed. giftssincerity, simplicity and learning. To. successive generations of boys, to the members of staffs (especially to. those who. knew him well), he was ever a great friend. Not least was he dear, for a sharp tongue and deadly gift fo.r seeing the absurd in the pompous, especially amongst the great in the ecclesiastical and scholastic world made his conversation stimulating. His incredibly frail figure and gentle manner, his tender, inquiring approach, his remarkable gift for remembering one's family hlstory, his genuine interest in each member of the family, his vast social tact enabled him to. get to know each school, many of its members, and, to. anastonishing degree, its mores, its tone, its strengths and weaknesses. As 'an editor, a biographer, an hlstorian of pre-reformation and reformation England, we are not competent to speak. Often he would leave a chapter at Ellesmere fo.r one of us to read and discuss, and once he read a chapter of his book, recently published, Henry VIII and the Reformation, as a paper to. the Seven Club. But we can say that there is no historian easier to read, for he had to a nicety that difficult art, the skill of writing familiarly. His deep love of children, or undergraduates, of the unsophisticated, was expressed in many ways, not least in his delight in books which naturally appealed to them and to him; and he was modern enough to. realise that detective stories should primarily be 'addressed to the don, the cleric and the politician, if they are to be successful, as were his delightful Inspector Frost series. We are grateful to Providence for letting us get to know such a man as Maynard Smith. No boy who heard him preach, talked with him in cloister or room, or on one of his gentle walks, will fo.rget him. He will be remembered where we think he would most like to be, in the hearts of those to whom he ministered during nearly fifty years of a devoted ministry.

MAY, 1949.

THE

ELLESMERIAN

House Notes
MEYNELL HOUSE R. D. Viney (Prefect of Ham. T. G. Archer. J. M. Leech, A. M. Tasker. J. R. Williams. Senior House Colours The Prefects. Captain of Junior Dormitory B. M. Nich'Ols. Captain 'OfJuniors R. D. McDonald. Junior House Colours R. D. McDonald, D. Suckling, P. L. Squire. It is always the complaint that there is too much to do in the Easter Term, and certainly this Term has been no exception. It seems necessary for every 'Out-ofschool activity to 'be on a competition basis between the Houses, and so the inevitable result follows: it is not a question of excelling in any sport, but 'Ofbeating another House. This is part 'Ofthe English traditi'On in all Public Schools, and S'Owe accept it. At any rate, there have been seven Cups to be competed for, apart ,from the three Cups for the Victores Ludorum. We managed to win the Senior Hockey, beating Wakeman in the final. Largely 'Owing to some excellent running and jumping by certain boys in the House, and to misfortune to Wakeman, who lost three of their best boys through illness 'Or injury, we managed to retain the Sports Cup. The Relay Cup came as a great surprise to most of us after a very exciting finish to the last Race. The Chess Cup came to us, together with the Instrumental Cup. F'Or sixteen years we have never possessed the Vocal Cup, but largely owing to Parsonage's painstaking coaching, we won this also. So the energies 'Of certain members of the House have been suitably rewarded: it Is a pity that such activities as the above should not be quite sufficient to work 'Off surplus energy. House Plays went off very well on the last Saturday and Sunday of the Term. We produced tW'Oplays, A. A. Milne's "The Man in the Bowler Hat," on the Saturday, and an adaptation of R. L. Stevenson's short story, "Markheim," on the Sunday. The first play was laughingly received by the School. VineY,as the Suburban Householder to whom nothing exciting ever happens, showed a hitherto unexpected strain of comedy, nervous, indignant and blustering as the occasion demanded; Ball made an excellent housewife, acting freely and confidently; Parsonage was a dashing, melodramatic hero, chased by an unscrupulous and villainous villain, Archer, and an equally black confederate with a churchyard voice, Williams I: and Morgan played the part of a clinging and courageous heroine. Several cues were missed during the play, names were muddled and exasperation was shown: this made it all the more amusing. The second play had 'Only four characters in it, and was a departure from the normal School House Play. Moss gave a finished performance as the Dealer in a Second-hand Shop who was murdered for his money, Samuel showed real talent as the Murderer, "Marion," playing a very difficult part, dramatic and emotional. with feeling and' excellent understanding. Vahey as the Stranger ,gave a polished performance, alternately suave. menacing or indifferent. Bonell, the servant-girl, who made such a fieeting appearance, was equal to the part. The Play was well received. and at times there was a complete silence from the audience-a tribute. We should like to congratulate Viney on being Captain 'Of Hockey; and Crossman, Parsonage. Samuel and Leech on gaining 1st Hockey Colours. Archer and Pearson also played in the 1st XI; Harrop and Ivey in the 2nd. Parsonage was the Senior Victor Ludorum, coached the House Choir. and played the piano in the House Music Competition. Moss broke the Middles 880 yards record, and Squire Ii, a Bantam. broke one Junior Record. Several boys ran very well in the Sports and Relays. and we shall remember Archer. Freake and 'Harrop who did more than was ever expected of them in the Relays. Captain 'OfHouse Vice-Captain of House House Prefects

64:

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

Congratulations also must be given to McDonald, Suckling and Squire i on gaining Junior House Colours. The House contributed over £9 as a Christmas gift for a poor Parish Mission for Children in Birkenhead. This gift was very warmly appreciated and brought momentary joy to many. . We say goodbye to Samuel, Pinnington and Simcock this Term. Samuel goes to California with his family, and we shall miss his keenness and company; Pinnington we are also sorry to lose: he has done a great deal this Term for the House on the Athletics Field and in the Steeplechase. Simcock goes to join his brother on a Farm. To all these three we wish the best of luck for the future.

MAY, 1949.

THE

ELLESMERIAN HOUSE

65

TALBOT

Captain of House .. D. E. Roberts (Captain of School>. Vice-Captain of House D. Q. Miller. Captain of House Hockey and Athletics .. D. E. Roberts. Captain of House Running R. Jones. Captain of Junior Dormitory J. M. Scarratt. Captain of Juniors A. T. Bryant. Senior House Colours D. E. Roberts. D. Q. Miller. Junior House Colours J. Rees. A. T. Bryant. R. Wynne Griffith. J. M. Scarratt. E. Robinson. M. C. Cooper. We returned from the Christmas holidays full of enthusiasm for the numerous activities of the Lent Term; The first sporting event was the House Hockey. for which we practised hard and gave up much spare time. As a result we can justly feel that we acquitted ourselves well in both the matches against Wakeman, although we failed to take the lead in either game. Enthusiastic training for the Steeplechase followed in due course. R. Jones. who organised this. found that compulsion was rarely needed: indeed. some were so keen that their efforts had to be curtailed. Our hopes were fully justified when A. Hesketh won the Senior Steeplechase, with D. M. Paterson second and F. G. Davies sixth. The Senior Team returned an excellent score, but although R. M. Wynne Griffith and G. M. Tomlinson were equal fourth in the Junior, we had to be content with a good second place when the total points were added together. Two members of the House were regularly in the School Hockey XI-D.E. Roberts. an old Colour. and R. Jones who gained his Colours this year. On the administrative side. D. E. Roberts has been Captain of School, Captain of Athletics and Vice-Captain of Hockey; D. Q. Miller is Secretary of the Ellesmerian Society. and J. F. Lyle Secretary of the Seven Club and the Thespians. D. Q. Miller, J. F. Lyle and J. M. Savage are all Assistant School Librarians. Circumstances which were not altogether under our control unfortunately prevented us from producing a House Play this year. Resting on our laurels. and not forgetting that we were the originators of the House Play tradition, we enjoyed the other productions with a more than usually unprejudiced detachment. The house has adopted a leper boy through the British Empire Leprosy Relief Association. by agreeing to contribute £5 a year to his treatment. His name is Ode Akabama. and he is undergoing treatment at Ossimo, S.E. Nigeria. We have 'received' a report. and hope soon to have a photograph. Several Old Blues have visited us this term. among them C. T. Lewis. N. M. Jones and F. Williams. a former billiard champion of the House, who once more showed us his skill. Towards the end of term we were very pleased to welcomeG. L. Daltry. who is now back at Trinity College. Cambridge; and the Lea Brothers. Michael from Edinburgh University. and David from his work as a farm pupil; their scarlet M.G. was much admired. Such visits remind us of the continuity and comradeship of the House. and are always welcome.

66

THE ELLESMERIAN
WAKEMAN HOUSE

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

R. E. Farmer. R. E. Farmer, W. P. Howells. J. M. Anderson, R. Mortimer, D. G. Howells, P. Stringer, R. B. Cole. House Colours J. M. Anderson, W. P. Howells, R. E. Farmer, D. G. Howells, R. Mortimer, P. Stringer. Captain, Junior Dormitory P. W. Leaney. Captain, Juniors G. C. Davies. Junior House Colours G. C. Davies, H. N. Cook, P. L. Clarke, J. D. S. Bailey, P. E. Bevin, P. E. Griffiths, P. A. Brown, R. W. Anderson. The results of the inter-house Squash matches came too late to be included in the last issue. Our team -R. M. Carver, R. Mortimer (both of whom play for the School Squash team), and W. P. Howells, all played excellently, and robbed Meynell of a cup which they almost considered personal property. We were hampered at the start in our training for the Steeplechase, as W. P. Howells was unable to run. However, with the aid of the Chaplain, the Seniors, though not brilliant, came in as a pack, and R. W. Anderson, who won the Junior Steeplechase, was backed by a good Junior pack. By these staunch efforts all round we once more won the cup. Both the Senior and Junior Hockey teams played in the finals. The Juniors played a fine game, winning the cup from Meynell. Tbe Seniors, though they made several attempts to rally, were never really in control of the game, and were rather baffled by the brilliance of the Meynell forwards. Though all played well, we were soundly beaten by a superior team. Owing to various misfortunes, we were without the support of two of our best Senior runners during the sports, and found ourselves at a grave disadvantage through the loss of W. P. Howells and J. M. Anderson. R. W. Anderson was the Junior Victor Ludorum, breaking the record of every event for which he entered. B. L. Koetser was the Middles Victor Ludorum. In the absence of W. P. Howells, D. H. Jones ran all House Athletics with a startling efficiency which justified his being posted as vice-captain of House Athletics. The House Choir failed to capture the Vocal Cup, despite their untiring practising and the great efforts of P. Stringer, the accompanist. I. C. Howard, G. C. Davies and N. H. Sharpe represented the house in the instrumental section,and though all' gave of their best, they did not capture the Instrumental Cup. We produced two House Plays in Big School this term. D. H. Jones and R. W. Anderson played the leads in "The Road of Poplars," which was produced by the Chaplain. The second play, "The Poison Party," was of lighter strain and produced by Mr. Jackson. C. R. Ganz, playing the male lead, was typically the garrulous and verbose gentleman we know so well. P. F. Harding, playing opposite C. R. Ganz, played his part with a forcefulness which compared with his rotundity. We had, once again, a house sing-song. This evening's entertainment, organised by J. M. Anderson and R. M. Carver, was an outstanding success, as were the customary refreshments. Two weeks from the end of term we lost D. G. Howells, who has left to become a chartered accountant. We all feel the loss of this well known and amiable character, and wish him God-speed in his new sphere of life. VALETE D. G. HOWELLS (1944-49).-House Prefect, 1948; House Colours, 1949; Colts XV, 1946; Colts Colours, 1946; 2nd XV, 1947-48; 2nd XI Hockey, 1947-48; Shooting VIII, 1946-7-8-9; Captain, Shooting, 1948; Cert. "A," 1947; Corporal, (C.C.F.; School Certificate, 1947-48.

Captain of House School Prefects House Prefects

MAY, 1949.

THE ELLESMERIAN
WOODARD HOUSE. Captain of House Vice-Captain of House House Prefects

67

K. J. Crane. R. V. Haygarth. D. Pritchard, P. G. Harries, W. P. Jolley, M. A. Wallace. House Colours K. J. Crane, R. V. Haygarth, D. Pritchard, P. G. Harries. Captain of Hockey K. J. Crane. Captain of Athletics P. G. Harries. Captain of Juniors : ,E. J. C. Bygott. Junior House Colours A. S. Moore, G. Leech. E. J. C. Bygott, J. K. Miln. R. W. Thomas. Early this term, the Captain of House presented House Colours to our Housemaster, Lt.-Col. J. HunterWatts. Colonel Hunter-Watts said that he had gained ties in various ways, but none would he wear with so much pride as this, which was probably his last. House Colours were also awarded this term to P. G. Harries. The term has not been highly successful in sporting events. In the Hockey matches we lost to Meynell 4-0 in the Senior and 3-0 in the Junior match. We must congratulate D. Pritchard and K. J. Crane on being awarded their Hockey Colours. The Steeplechase also did not bring success. The first six Violets in the Junior Steeplechase were all in the first twenty runners. In the Senior race, however, the sixth Violet did not appear until forty-two competitors had passed the post. The rest of the Athletic Sports further revealed our lack of long-distance runners, for no Violet appeared in the final of the Mile. In the short distance and sprints, Roberts did fairly well. He and Brown were the only Violets in gain a place. Our only jumping success was Wallace, who gained fifth place in the Long Jump. For the field events we had high hopes, for we possessed last year's winner of both Weight and Javelin. However, this year, Crane was third in the Weight and Fourth in the Discus; Poston also gained a place in the Weight. The Middles and Juniors fared moderately well, Moore, Davies viii and Fitt all gaining places in their several events. The Chess Cup once more slipped by, for the team-D. Pritchard and P. H. Tate (captained by N. H. Davies)--only managed to win three out of nine matches. The Music Competition produced as much house rivalry as the sports field. We were unlucky enough to lose the Vocal Cup to Meynell by only one point. The adjudicator deemed our four-part singing a credit to the best choir; the unison song, unfortunately. did not reach so high a standard. Our instrumentalists also were not successful, gaining fiftyeight points out of a possible seventy-five. Meynell retained the cup. The House Play was once more a great success, and was extremely well acted by the entire cast. The producer, Mr. B. Bayly, provided numerous backcloths and t'!fects to - liven the production. The cast of the play, "You Do Say Lovely Things," was as follows:Orlando, R. V. Haygarth; Pink Lady, T. R. Lilly; Bill. F. H. Brown; The Girl, N. H. Davies; Police Inspector. P. G. Harries; Constable. J. Warren. At the beginning of the term we welcomed Nock, Griffiths and Fitt, and we are fortunate that no-one is leaving us at the end. We must congratulate M. A. Wallace on being appointed a House Prefect. Congratulations are also due to Bygott, Miln and Thomas, who this term gained their Junior House Colours.

68

THE ELLESMERIAN
dUNIOR HOUSE.

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

Head Monitor: C. E. Nash. Monitors: W. J. Ellis i, H. G. Morgan tv, M. U. Newbold, P. J. Pym, E. H. Fraser-Smith. All-Round Cup: Normans. Victor Ludorum: W. J. Ellis i. House Colours: C. E. Nash, W. J. Ellis i. A mild type of influenza was with us throughout the greater part of the term, but did not interfere seriously with our normal activities. Unfortunately, the few matches which we usually have during the Easter term had to be cancelled. During the term House Colours were presented to Mr. Gane, who has done so much for us while he has been here, and has this term taken over the supervision of the new gardens at the side of the Sanatorium; also, to Ellis, who later was the Victor Ludorum in the Athletic Sports. To both we offer our congratulations. On the last Sunday of term Mr. Millane presented "The Highwayman" in Big School. As usual, the actors and spectators. were equally enthusiastic.
III

It was with great regret that we heard of the departure of Miss Evans after a stay of two terms. She was a kind disciplinarian, an enthusiastic worker, a believer in punctuality, and, above all, possessed a keen sense o·f humour. Our loss will be the great gain of Moreton Hall, where she goes with the good wishes of us all. We feel that we must offer our heartiest congratulations to Bobby Anderson, so lately one of our monitors, on his great feat in the Junior events of the Senior School sports, when he beat five existing records. Incidentally, all the Victores Ludorums were formerly in our ranks. Of such stuff are ex-members of the Junior School made! Congratulations also go to Newbold, the first Cub to obtain maximum number possible. twelve badges-the

Of old friends, we hear of Miss M. Christopherson, who gave the radio to the sickroom, and Miss R. Hodgson, now Matron of a Prep. School in Northants. H'p.C.

MAY, 1949.

THE

ELLESMERIAN

69

ELLESMERE CHAPEL COMPLETION FUND. Subscriptions and Receipts In 1948. £ s. d. O.E. Club (London) Dinner 800 K. A. H. Rogers 330 H. J. S. HiltQn .. 330 J. W. Davies 220 Mr. and Mrs. and R. J. W. Saunders .. 26 5 0 Jack Nunnenley 220 P. M. Hellberg .. 110 E. W. Parker 10 0 0 A. E. Blunden .. 220 Major V. D. Jones 550 H. Kealey .. 220 C. E. Nash " 330 Mrs. Lymer 220 W. H. Scholfield 2 10 0 Clifford Rostron 220 Sundries 73 D. A. Ward .. 330 J. W. Saxton .. 500 T. A. Toote 10 10 0 L. T. Dod .. 550 Play Subscriptions & Programmes 62 2 9 Allan B. Barfield C. C. Lewis Thomas Hope .. Rev. D. W. Lee .. £ s. d. O.E. Club (Liverpool) Dinner 19 5 6 Mrs. Proudlove 100 25 0 0 Mrs. A. Leech .. 550 G. Bennett .. Rev. F. G. Swindell 110 H. Mooney .. 10 0 0 100 J. S. Pritchard .. 200 Rev. Guy L'Bstrange 220 C. E. and P. J. Emberton 330 J. Bruce Barter D. H. Bancroft .. .. 10 0 0 D. M. Hannah .. 220 110 D. J. S. Tryer .. 10 10 0 H. Davies H. Lonsdale 500 Chapel Collections .. 900 Income Tax Rebate on Covenanted .. 49 1 11 Subscriptions .. 500 Mrs. Brunt M. E. Longden .. 220 126 G. R. Holland .. Nine Carols Services .. 7 15 3 550 110 10 0 0 200

Deeds of Covenant. 330 H. A. Hesketh .. 11o A. Lance Jones 500 Thomas Smith 1 lOOP. H. Evans Bankers' Order. W. W. Thomas 110

.JOHN HENRY COUND BRUNT, V.C., M.C., MEMORIAL FUND. SUBSCRIPTION LIST. £52.10.0:Mr. and Mrs. P. H. Brunt. £50: G. Melville Towers, Esq. £26.5.0: H. J. Portlock, Esq. £25: Raymond P. Petty, Esq. £10.10.0: T. A. Toote (1909), H. P. Cooper (1909), A. E. Marsh, Esq., C. S. Cowap, Esq., Cyril H. Scott (1908), T. J. H. Diggory, Esq., J. H. Barker (1884). £10.0.0: E. C. Byle, Esq., Harry Twist, Esq., J. E. Light-owler (1938), K. J. R. Fawcett (1938), L/Bomb. H. N. Minor (1939). £5.5.0: G. H. Pearson, Esq., C. B. Holmes, Esq., Harry Dronfield, Esq., J. J. L. Gibson (1934), J. D. Paxton, Esq., T. C. Heald, Esq., F. E. Freake, Esq., T. W. Shorroek, Esq., W. TQlley, Esq., Henry J. Leigh (1938), W. J. Keeley (1914), J. Harold Taylor, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Thomas, A. Leech, Esq., A. I. Illston, Esq., C. Owens, Esq., C. McEnery, Esq., J. M. Winn, Esq;, Dr. G. W. Phillips (1895) and Mrs. Phillips, J. C. Bradley (1922), R. T. Firth (1924), R. L. Cowmeadow, Esq., F. O. Baron (1900), S/Ldr. K. G. Todd, C. Ogilvie Campbell, Esq., and D. C. O. Campbell (1932), C. and E. Clutton (1938), A. R. A. Elston (1936), H. Mooney (1921>,G. F. Wood (1939), Mrs. Mabel

70
Lt. P. M. Irwin Turner,

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 26!i·

Bond, John Anderson, Esq., Frank Stringer,. Esq., G. B. Swift, Esq., W. I. Arnold (1918), R.N.V.R. (1931), T. Millican, Esq .• R. Sym, Esq., C. R. Derbyshire (1923), Capt. G. H. Tait, W. S. B. Walker, Esq., G. L. Mason, Esq., I. St. L. (1932) and D. H. St. Morris (1934), K. Clayden (1938), Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Sumsion, Major R. W. Hatch (1926), Rev. R. A. Evans-Prosser, Harold W. Thomas, Esq., C. Howard, Esq., Capt. E. E. W. Lloyd-Jones (1929), K. Berry, Esq., Major R. V. H. Settle (1912), E. J. S. Evans (1927), J. T. McCubbin (1906), H. Croft, Esq. £5.0.0: F. B. Field, Esq., The Rt. Rev. the Lord Bishop of Chester (Fellow), l\i!ljor A. G. Roberts, Sub-Lieut. M. R. Lambert (1939), Cl\pt. R. A. D. Evans (1927), C. R. Lacey, Esq., J. S. Bourne (1936), G. Bennett, Esq., F. C. Bright, Esq., Lieut. N. G. Scotter (1930), Mrs. H. Shearing, H. E. Courtenay, Esq., G. B. Blunden (1896), Robin Rathbone (1937), D. C. Wilson (1933), E. H. Farmer, Esq., J. M. Parsons (1934), R. Sudlow, Esq., F. H. Austin, Esq., George Parker (1922), Mrs. F. M. Ward and P. H. Ward (1935), H. J. Davis (1898), Lt. M. B. Rowley (1935), Major S. Yeal, Frank Bradley,Esq., T. K. B. Smith (1937), P. G. I. Cockshoot (1936). £4.4.0: Mr. and Mrs. Hardshaw Brown. £3.13.6: Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Ellis and J. P. W. ElUs (1939), G. Ellis (1940). £3.3.0: F. Ll. Brown (1912), Mr. and Mrs. F. V. Lloyd and Frank Lloyd (1934), Mr. and Mrs. B. E. Haygarth, W. D. Owen, Esq., G. J. Saunders, Esq., G. Miller Yardley, Esq., Rev. Canon T. W. Lambert, G. A. Dutton, Esq., John Davies, Esq., John R. Shaw, Esq., H. Hargreaves, Esq., A. H. Cooper (1938), Capt. J. G. Shepherd (1930), Donald J. Wynn (1936), W. A. Jeffs, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. Tate, I. Bruce Barter (1918), W. F. Whittingham (1936), J. S. Wright, Esq., Col. H. B. Hudson (1920), G. Ffoulkes Jones, Esq. £3.0.0: Michael Watts (1938). £2.10.0: C. J. Baker (1925). . £2.2.0: Major and Mrs. C. D. Lamb, John Douglas Smith (1933), Peter A. Browne (1938), J. C. (1941) and W. W. (1941) Sutton, H. Griffiths, Esq., Frank B. Haworth, l!;sQ., J. R. (1941) and Mr. and Mrs. H. M. Roberts, Harry Makin, Esq., J. L. Williams, Esq., E. P. Jenkins (1930), E. J. Drinkwater, Esq., A. E. Mead-Kidd, Esq., S. Roulston, Esq., Gilbert B. Mason, Esq., S. Broadhurst, Esq., J. Hope, Esq., H. T. Box (1885), R. C. Lumley Davies, Esq., P. H. Bailey, Esq., Col. and Mrs. T. A. W. Philcox, Mr. R. G. and Mrs. F. I. Bird, Moel. G. Ashcroft, Esq., Mrs. M. M. Bakewell, Col. F. Spilsbury (1907), Major H. Meynell, M.C. (Fellow), Major G. H. Adams (1915), Brian (1932) and Roger (1932) Edwards, H. H. Bevin (1939), J. D. (1924) and F. C. (1928) Joynson, K. G. Barton (1940), G. W. Anstey, Esq., E. C. Vallance, Esq., K. Hugh. Dodd, Esq., A. J. Sloman, Esq., Mrs. A. E. Blease, W. H. Phillips, Esq., D. J. Thomas, Esq., S. L. B. Smith (1913), F/Lt. M. W. Edwards, Mrs Chapple, H. W. Little, Esq., Pte. Chapman, C. H. Granville, R. W. Raby (1916>, Stuart Adams, Esq., S. Vernon Smith (1933), Percy Bridden, Esq., R. P. Parsonage, Esq., R. BuddIe Atkinson, Esq., Capt. R. G. Bennett (1925), Sydney H. Hughes, Esq., G.M. Bowen, Esq., J. C. Copeland (1918), E. J. Insley, Esq., J. K. Hewitt, Esq., G. Bankin Jackson, Esq., A. C. Spratling, Esq., M. A. K. Fraser, Esq., Capt. T. B. Icke (1922), Mrs. Nancy M. Davies, Lt.-Col. D. J. Hibbert, FlO R. J. Hedley (1935), FlO F. B. Shaw (1935), T. E. Kenny, Esq., R. P. Williams (1937), L. E. M. Box (1926), E. Briggs, Esq., Ml;'s. A. E. Bleasdale, Sgt. P. A. Gillespie (1938), L.A.C. K. J. Harwood and Nigel Harwood (1935), Lieut. E. W. Waddams, Lieut. D. R. Duff (1929), C. E. Beggs (1934), Lt.-Col. and Mrs. Shelley, H. P. Rigby, Esq., Lt.-Col. and Mrs. P. R. Howells, C. H. Lewis, R.N., The Rt. Hon. Lord Berwick (Fellow), G. Parton (1919), Mrs. B. L. Graves, P. J. Witt!!r (1930>, R. Benjamin (1939), Mrs. O. Harrop, F/Lt. G. G. Fraser-Smith, H. W. Llewellyn, Esq., W. H. Knaggs, Esq., T. J. Millican (1936), J. H. Millican (1936), N. Lilly, Esq., H. A. Hesketh, ·Esq., Mrs. P. A. Lea, A. Lamb, Esq., Thomas Smith, Esq., J. A. Swindell (1897), Major J. S. Allison (1916), H. O. Halewood, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. A. G. Ellis, H. Webster, Esq., D. T. Bolt (1936), H. Davies, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. N. F. Weedall, J. S. Lewis, Esq., Major A. E. Evans (1921), A. Lance Jones (1918), John E. Wells, Esq., J. A. Boucher (1893), P. A. Boucher (1927), Mrs. E. M. Chapman, Thomas J. Smith, Esq., Leslie Fox (1943), John Warren (19144),T. H. N. Ascough (1913), J. F. Jelinek (1940), J. F. Morgan, Esq., S. Mukerje (1929), J. W. Nankivell (1912), J. E. Reed, Esq., J. W. Smith, Esq., J. O. Boldero, Esq., Fulwood and Bland's Sports Club, J. V. Griffiths, Esq. £2.0.0: Mrs. M. L. Teare, 2nd Lieut. John Mills (1939), P. F. Bebb (1939), Capt. J. R. Thomas (1937), Mrs. A. Howard, Mrs. M. .HUghes, Mrs. Hele.

MAv,l!WI.

THE

ELLESMERIAN

71

£1.11.6: R. A. Rowley, Esq., J. W. Ellis (.1937), H. G. Ellis (HI37). £1.5.0: Rev. B. R. Hibbert (1884). £1.1.0: Ross Wallis, Esq., E. L. Powne, Esq., Brig.-Gen. J. B. Wells, C.M.G., C.Il.E., D.. .O., Sub-Lieut. E. A. Kynaston (1939), W. W._Wyatt (1937), G. D. Nunnerley, Esq., S Joseph Thompson, Esq., J. A. N. Lloyd (1935), Major W. M. Arkinstall (1929), D. V. H. Masson (1942), G. I. Lloyd, Esq., A. P. Bevan, Esq., Ll. Rowlands (1906), Frank Bottomley (1913), Chas. R Johnson,Esq., Wyndham Phillips, Esq., Mrs. Nora Evans, H. L. Horspool (1922), H. N. Lacey, Esq., Lt.-Col. F. Richmond Coggan (1899), Lt.-Col. Sir Harold Wilberforce'Bell (1903), Ivor McKay Wills (1931t),John McKay Wills (1938), D. R. James, ~sq., A. PaJ:ldn, Esq., Fawcett R Minshall (1916), G. V. Taylor (1931), H. L. Bangham, E!lq., B. E.M:cIntyre (1917), Capt. G. C. Snowie (1924), Mr. and Mrs. Macrae Snowie, L. B. Blake, Esq., R J. Menzies (936), J. B. Vernon (1925), Capt. Miss Roper, M.B.E., M.T.C., W. Olsen, Esq., Mrs. M. R. Ashcroft, F. J. Box (1886), Mrs. Patricia Clee, Alan B. Radford, Esq., Rev. C. H. Ford, S. W. Culverhouse, Esq., Brian B. Culverhouse (1$)39), Mr. and Mrs. Tom Jones, H. D. Howells, Esq., Mrs. A. A. Rogers, C.E. Emberton, Esq., John Forster, Esq., P. A. Hopkins (1935), J. W. Davies, Esq., P. G. Griffiths, Esq., Rev. J. W. J. Steele (1915), Alan J. Taylor, Esq., G. Lowther Irving (1937), Geoffrey W. Olive (1940), Stanley Matthews, Esq., H. Hodson, Esq., J. C. Naylor, Esq., P. W. T. Thomas, Esq., Rev. E. E. F. Walters, Lt. P. J. Heath (1936), J. C. Lewis, Esq., W. Dawkins (1941), J. H. Stevenson,Esq., Mr. M. Timmis, Mrs. Duff, H. Wallis, Esq.~ H. J. S. Hilton, Esq., Major J. A. Walker, Lt.-Col. B. J. Walker (1921), Capt. B. S. Walker (1932), F/O R. Morris (1934), Mrs. K. L. Emerton, Cadet J. Glyn Jones (1!J8{)), lfred Cliffe (19243),D. C. Dunphy (1.11::12), Sidney Lea, Bt. (Fellow), A Sir W. A. Woodhouse, Esq., Ian Geoffrey Clarke (1940), D. E. Truscott (1935), R. S. Atkinson (1939), G. Done, Esq., H. C. Rigby (1932). J. B. Rigby (1934), C. W. W. Rigby (1936), R. Parker, Esq., C. Brassington, Esq., R. W. Long, Esq., W. R. Lush, Esq., D. A. H. Evans (1.H41.), . Fearnall, Esq., A. W. Taylor, Bsq., S. W. Appleyard, Esq., C. Winchester, Esq., A G. R. Millican (1939), Mrs. E. Dwight, A. C. Shepherd (1910), A. G. Shepherd (19:a7) , S. E. Chaloner, Esq., C. Mobberley, Esq., Mr. and Mrs. Philip Williams, J. D. Mathias-Jones (1936), R. E. Matthews, Esq., H. Caladine (925), L J. Lewis (1941), Mrs. D. Simpson, Mrs. W. E. Dockrill, C. B. Cole, Esq., T. Day (1893), T. James Irving, Esq., T. Winfield (1907), R. L. W. Large (1938) and Mrs. K. M. Large, A. P. Swindell (1887), C. M. Twist, Esq., Major E. J. N. Husbands (1929), E. N. Cane, Esq., W. R. Baker, Esq., H. C. Williams, Esq., E. W. Whalley (1908), Rev. A. H. Jones, H. Norman Davies. £1.0.0: W. C. Kynaston (1931), Rev. Canon H. Maynard Smith (Fellow), P. A. Broad (1940), P. D. and J. A. M. Henderson (1938), Major P. F. Wilberforce Bell, M.C. (1903), H. V. Johnson, Esq., Philip Robinson, Esq., W. C. Swindell (1886), Miss M. Christopherson, N. P. L. Wilkinson (1943), Mrs. L. L. Sandground, J. R. Horn (1935),Col. L. R. H. Keatinge (lH13), Capt. K. B. Johnson (lU36), E. S. Blenkinsop, Esq., G. D. Fairley (1.11:33), Lieut. R. A. L Coward (1935), W. A. Wright (1916), F/Lt. G. Haworth (936), W. H. AUl!tin (1939), W. G. Hughes, Esq., J. Wycherley (1939), Major-General G. A. D. Harvey (1893), Mrs. E. Jolley, Mrs. Proudlove, Miss Edith Taylor. l5.0d.: J. F. Saunders, Esq. 10.6d.: S. H. (1912) and H. G. Tims tl936) , Dr. F. B. G. Holmes (1886), Rev. F. C. Gill, Mrs. E. L. Box, Mrs. D. Davies, Kenneth D. J. Grosvenor (1939), Rev. Douglas Cooper (1898), Rev. T. C. M. Isbister (1903), David Baird (1941), H. S. Watkins, Esq. 10.0d.: Rev. R. H. Owen, G. Colin Roberts (1926>, E. Johnson (1.1)0-1), J. M. WhittQW Williams (1941), H. Hottot, Esq., Mrs. G. Winmill, R. H. Coates (1930), Rev. F. G. Swindell (188'(,),Rev. Canon L. B. Sladen (Fellow), G. J. Dimelow (921), J. R. L. Martindale (1940), H. W. Day (1896), Rev. T. Jones, A. C. Graham (1932), L. W. W. Graham (1935), D. R. Evans, Esq., Rev. S. H. Sharpe, B. Singh (1U8S), Miss L. M. Morris. 7.6d.: Miss D. R. Hodgson, Miss G. Lowe, Richard Ward (1927). 5.Od.:A. F. Manners (1939), H. F. L. Roden (1939), L. Redmond (1905), C. P. Witter (1923), H. V. S. Murless (1928), Miss G. Humphrey Jones, Mrs. E. B. Nicolson, Miss M. A. M. Jones, J. H. Powell (1896). 2.6d.: (Outdoor Ground Staff) W. H. Humphreys, George Davies, T. Edwards, E. Griffiths, J. H. c.onstance (1933). Subscriptions received and interest tl) date: :f: Date in brackets denotes Old Ellesmerian and his date of entry.

72

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

House Plays
House Plays at Ellesmere have become a Lent Term Fixture as eagerly awaited and enjoyed by all as the Advent Carol Services. This year, a Pride of Plays ("Pace" Glassey) was presented in Big School on Saturday, March 26th, and Sunday, March 27th. Let it be said at the outset that the standard cf acting was high throughout, and in one or two cases some positive "tours de force" were seen. There was a pleasing variety of choice. and, as usual, one or two individuals did remarkably well. All who have undertaken the production of One-Act Plays know the difficulty of finding suitable plays, which, while being worth putting on, are also within the limits of the available cast. "The Rcad of Poplars" is a well known Festival Prize Winner, and it is a good play of some considerable power. But it is to be doubted whether any school-boy cast could really get it across; much less a group of younger boys such as attempted it at Ellesmere. For a boy of under 14, Bobbie Anderson did amazingly well, and contrived a real sense of the dramatic-but he just could not be convincing. Much less convincing was his wife as played by K. Dodd, whose actions and movements were often wooden. David Jones did his best as the Tourist, the soldier who had come back to the scene of his tragic error, and with Anderson went a long way to create an atmosphere; but the French customers, although looking truly continental, were not happy in their unnatural tongue. Amateur actors often fail. in the acid test of audibility-and so, too, do far too many professionalsand the Wakeman Players quite failed to get a measure of Big School's peculiarities. Nevertheless, it was a valiant effort, and one can see most of these boys doing big things in the future. The other two plays of the first group were of the farce type, fairly easy to put on, but none the less full of pitfalls for the unwary. "The Man in the Bowler Hat," a Meynell production, gave us an excellent characterisation of the 'Ordinary comfortable, unexciting and excitable Englishman by Richard Viney, who had an equally unruffled wife in F. Ball. The film actors all played with suitable verve and venom, and, on the whole, got over well; but here occasional inaudibility was aggravated by a persistant refusal of the actors to "wait for the laughs." Lavish scenery, costumes and effects made a very colourful show of Woodard's "You. Do Say Su.ch LoveLy Things." Orlando was admirably sinister, and his lady friend, looking remarkably vampish and ravishingly gowned, would have done credit to a Dick Barton thriller. A "find" in this play was F. Howell-Brown, who made the perfect "spiv"; while Roy Lilley's Pink Lady, although inaudible, was, in appearance, the perfect "silly little piece." . Warren as the very rural fat policeman, and Harries as the very Police College Inspector, ·both contributed to all the fun of the fair. The Sunday programme provided two plays 'Of complete contrast. Wakeman's "Poison Party," amusingly and picturesquely well-dressed from the Prop. Room Wardrobe, was broad farce rightly played in the knock-about Music Hall manner. Every word carried through the hall, every action was suitably overplayed; and again unexpected ability was shown by people like Harding and Bailey. The actors 'Obviously enjoyed their fooling to the full, and so did the audience. Finally, Meynell had been bold enough to adapt for 'performance the well known short story by R. L. Stevenson-"Markheim." Four characters, only three of whom spoke, held the stage and the audience for thirty minutes, and the almost complete absence of coughing in front, at a time when the school's bronchial tubes seemed particularly troublesome, was a fitting tribute to the actors.

P LA Y S

MAY, 1949.

THE

ELLESMERIAN

73

Whether the story really lends itself to adaptation is perhaps open to question. As Marion, M. Samuel had an extremely difficult part, with lengthy soliloquies demanding every variety of voice, action and facial expression. Although inclined to a voice at one pitch, and sometimes with words not easily distinguishable, he worked up a fine sense of warring motives and morals. The sudden appearance of the unearthly and terrifying Stranger caused a gasp of horror in the house, and R. G. Vahey contrived a finished and telling portrait of an Influence-whether for Good or Evil was presumably left to the audience to decide. His voice was splendid, every syllable duly articulated, and his actions and movements at times brilliant, although he must learn to hold himself more erect, and to make a more variable use of the full arm gesture. The polishing of finger nails, the writing in the dust on the table, the taking of snuff were all masterly touches. We have seen Vahey as Rosalind and Portia in the School Plays; we now look forward to seeing him tackle a male Shakespearian role. J. R. Moss gave an exquisite little performance as the antique dealer, gentle and aged, doomed to die at the hands of a murderer; while C. T. Bonell managed his silent entrance, his look of mounting fear and horror, and his charming .. period" female clothes with telling effect. The prolonged applause showed that the play had got over, and conversation among the departing audience gave evidence that most had gleaned more than a little of its meaning. These House Plays are an admirable training ground for the bigger School Productions of which Ellesmere is so justly proud; they invariably show fresh and unexpected talent, and they give healthy and, if one may use a much abused word, cultural employment to a large number of boys. "FERIATUS."

Chapel

Notes

This term we have been happy to welcome yet another Woodard chaplain to our chapel, namely, the Rev. Sholto Douglas, of Bloxham. We feel that visits such as this do much to remind us that we belong to a fellowship that takes us beyond the bounds of Ellesmere herself. Other visitors have included the Provost, the Rev. Canon H. H. Dibben, of Staveley (Vice-Provost>, the Rev. Ian Shevill, an Australian priest working for the S.P.G., and our old friend, the Rev. R. J. C. Lumley. Lent has been observed in the usual manner, though for a shorter time than in some years. The attendances at the daily Celebration have been good, whilst Compline on Saturday nights seems to have been less popular. The Confirmation has been arranged to take place next term on Whit-Sunday, and is to be conducted by the Lord Bishop of_Lichfield. There are nearly fifty candidates who are now preparing for the Sacrament. S.C.

CHAPEL

MUSIC

NOTES.

For many Old Ellesmerians, as well as for the present generation, one memory connected with Chapel services must surely be the occasional appearance of an entirely inadequate (and apparently fast-diminishing) number of booklets labelled .. Supplementary Hymns"! The beginning of this term saw an improvement in·this matter, for not only have we now sufficient copies for everyone in Chapel, but the collection has been entirely revised and a considerable number of fresh hymns added. The loose-leaf folders in which they are placed also make it possible to add to the collection further as occasion demands in the future without interfering with the present form. During the early part of the term Dr. C. S. Lang's congregational part to Walmisley's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in D minor was learnt, and later in the term the school had the opportunity and experience of being able to join with the Choir in the singing of this well known service setting. This is the second experiment of this sort, the previous one

tHE ELLttSMERiAN

VOL.

UX.

:NO.

26()

being a similar 'setting of Stanford's Te Deum in B flat which was learnt in the Michaelmas term, and with which we hope to renew acquaintance next term. So far as the Choir music is concerned, one new setting of the Eucharist has been sung=-Dr. C. E. S. Littlejohn's "Missa Sancti Niniani," in addition to the two settings by Eric Hunt, the one unaccompanied in the key of F (by now very familiar to all) and the other "Missa Sancti Michaelis et Omnium Angelorum" in the key of E fiat, which was sung' for the first time during the Michaelmas term. As well as the Walmisley Evening Service, we have sung settings by Stanford in C, and Noble in B minor; Whilst a' popular addition was the- revival of Harwood in A fiat, which, though.It has been sung in the College Chapel before, was the first time it had been sung by the present generation of boys. On the first Sunday of term, which was still within the Epiphany season, Herbert Howells' "Here is the little door" (so movingly sung at the Carol Service at the end of last term) was repeated as an Anthem, together with "We three kings," the congregation joining lustily in the chorus of the latter. The Epiphany Hymn, "La, the Pilgrim Magi"another memory for many Old Ellesmerians-was again sung on the Sundays after Epiphany. Other anthems sung during the term have been:Epiphany IV

" V Septuagesima

Sexagesima Quinquagesima Lent I II

III

IV

Non Nobis Domine Jesu, joy of man's desiring Call to remembrance, 0 Lord Teach me, 0 Lord Lord, for Thy tender mercies' Turn Thy face from my sins Seek ye the Lord Ave verum corpus Out of the deep

sake

Quilter Bach Farrant Attwood Farrant Attwood Palestrina Mozart' Elgar

Soloists this term have been M. A. Doughty and K. M. Lees (treble), J. M. Savage (alto), J. M. Anderson and J. P. Parsonage (tenor), and F. H. Brown (bass). We welcome to the trebles P.Sharpe and W. G. T. Rogers-both newcomers; to the altos, C. D. Morgan and J. K. Miln; to the tenors, A. K. Bull and E. J. C. Bygott; and to the basses, R. M. Farmer and P. W. Bond. R.A.L.L.

Music Society
This term witnessed a revival of the Music Society, membership being confined to the Divisions and Sixth Form. For their first meeting they were able to attend the Shrewsbury Amateur Operatic Society's production of "The Gondoliers" at Shrewsbury on Saturday, 12th February. The high standard of performance made it 'hard to realise that we were not watching a professional company, and as most of us had, through the kindness of various members of the staff, listened to the recent series of Sunday evening "Gilbert and Sullivan" broadcasts, a great. deal of ~njoyment was derived from this visit. As Gilbert and Sullivan obviously hold a great interest for so many, it is hoped to devote a meeting early next term to further consideration of the work of this immortal pair. On Sunday evening, 6th March, the society met in Mr. Lumley's room to hear a paper entitled "The Symphonic Poem-whence and whither?" read by R. V. Haygarth. Tracin·g symphonic development from the early Suites of Bach and his contemporaries, through Mozart and Beethoven, he brought us to that great master of this type of ,writing, Franz Liszt, and we were able to listen to his symphonic poem, "Les Preludes," and compare it with what we had heard earlier. The main work <ifthe evening was a detailed analysis of Richard Strauss' "The Merry Pranks of Till Eulenspiegel"-and on this lively note, the society concluded its first session, which, we hope, Will be the forerunner of many another, enabling us to experience and explore many different branches of music.

a> ...

... '"
)(

MAY, 1949. House

tHE

ELi..ESMERIAN

75

Music

Competition

The House Music Competition took place on Friday, 18th March, when the adjudicator was Irwyn B, Walters, Esq., BA., B.Mus., Specialist Inspector of Music for the Ministry of Education. In the Instrumental Section a rather higher all-round standard of performance was apparent this year. Meynell retained the cup with 67 points, Talbot and Wakeman tied with 64 each, and Woodard scored 58. In the Vocal Section, Meynell, with a total of 89, wrested the Vocal Cup from Woodard by a single point, whilst Talbot and Wakeman followed closely with 84 and 78 respectively. Thus, Meynell holds both cups this year-the last similar occasion being in 1937 when Woodard achieved this feat. Tribute must be paid to those boys who trained their House Choirs. It is not an easy task, and only those who have had"the task of doing it know of the patient toil that is necessary. To those boys, too, who sang in the choirs is due a word of appreciation, for a lot of their spare time is given up in order to achieve results .sueh as were heard this year. After presenting the Cups, Mr. Walters commended the efforts of the performers and pointed out that mere technical skill was insufficient for a satisfactory performance. An artist must be able to interpret the thoughts contained in the music, and it had pleased him to notice that the majoriy of competitors, whether instrumentalists, singers or conductors, were aware of this essential requirement. Although the spirit of competition was evident during the evening's proceedings, few who listened could have gone away without realising that we had, in addition, enjoyed an evening of pleasant music-making. .
INSTRUMENTAL SECTION.

A list of the music, performers and points gained is given below:

Woodard House.
Senior Piano: Clair de lune Junior Piano: Knight Rupert Other Instrument: (ORGAN) Interlude on the hymn-tune "Picardy" Debussy Schumann F. H. Brown B. S. Hooley N. H. Davies 17 19 22 58 I. C. Howard G. C. Davies
I

Henry Coleman

Wakeman House.
Senior Piano: Whims Schumann Junior Piano: Allegro from Sonatina in C major, Op, 36, No.1 Clementi Other Instrument: (PIANO) Allegro from Sonatina in G major, Op, 49, No.2 Beethoven Poulenc Beethoven Harold Darke

22 20
22

H. N. Sharpe'

Talbot House.

64 J. F. Lyle W. H. A. Brown J. M. Savage 23 21 20 64

Senior Piano: Two "Mouvements Perpetuels" Junior Piano: Moderato from Sonatina in G major Other Instrument: (ORGAN) Prelude from "A Little Organ Book"

THE ELLESMERiAN
Meynell House.
Senior Piano: Waltz in A flat, Op. 69, No.1 Junior Piano: Solfeggietto Other Instrument: (ORGAN) Prelude in D major VOCAL PART SONG-for all Houses-"Hard Chopin C. P. E. Bach J. S. Bach SECTION.

VOL.

ux.

No. 260

J. P. Parsonage P. A. Kingston N. A. W. Winchester

24 22 21 67

by a fountain"

Woodard House-Directed

(jointly) by P. G. Harries and N. H. Davies Part Song Unison Song-The Londonderry Air (Accompanist-N. H. Davies).

Hubert Waelrant <1518-1595) 47 41

....,
88 39 39 78

Wakeman House-Directed

by R. E. Farmer.

Part Song Unison Song-The Road to the Isles (Accompanist-P. Stringer).

Talbot House-Directed

by J. M. Savage. Part Song Unison Song-"Fairest Isle" (Accompanist-J. F. Lyle).

Purcell

42 42 84

Meynell House-Directed

by J. P. Parsonage. Part Song Unison Song-Men of Harlech (Accompanist-N.A W. Winchester).

45 44 89 R.A.L.L.

The Seven Club

We have held three meetings this term, and owing to the press of activities, others which had been planned had to be cancelled. At the first meeting, R. V. Haygarth read an interesting and well written paper on .. Worship in the Roman Empire," in which he gave an outline of the development of Roman religious beliefs, and showed that the Christian persecutions were justifiable. P. H. Harwood, Esq., read the second paper, entitled "The Theory of State," in which he set out to show that this expression is meaningless. He explained the fundamental difference between Fascism and Democracy, by the two definitions of "state" put forward. The paper stimulated, considerable argument between a few members.

MAY, 1949.

THE ELLESMERIAN

77

The final paper, was one on "jazz" by J. F. Lyle, illustrated by records of several Chicago combinations. He set out to show how jazz grew up from its peculiar environment, which was all-important, and stressed the art and expressiveness of the form. There was no lack (Jf discussion. This was the last meeting of the term. J.F.L.

" The

Thespians"

This has been an eventful term. Our first meeting was a reading of the "Antigone" of Sophocles. This was our first departure from modern plays, and was therefore more difficult than usual. The success of the meeting was largely due to Colonel Hunter-Watts' mature interpretation {Ifthe part of Kreon. At the second meeting we read Galsworthy's "Loyalties," with Mr. Jackson taking the part {IfDe Levis very ably. Soon after this meeting, W. A. V. Ireland, Esq., resigned as President {Ifthe Thespians. Fortunately, P. H. Harwood, Esq., has agreed to accept the post. He will be welcome to all the Thespians, and we hope he will have a long and enjoyable presidency. The last meeting of the term, and the most successful, was a reading {If Douglas Home's recent success--v'Now Barabbas ... " Mr. Harwood read the part {If Smith, and Mr. Bayly kindly took over the part of Tufhell, the condemned man, at short notice. The meeting was a good finish to the term, and the Society owes Mr. Harwood and Mr. Bayly its"thanks. J.F.L.

The Ellesmerian Society

This term the Ellesmerian Society has been "fortunate enough to engage several outside speakers, and also to go on two visits, the first to the Rolls Royce Works at Crewe, and the second to the Railway Works at Crewe. The first meeting of the term was held in the Lecture Room on Saturday, January 22nd, to elect new offkers for the term. After this, members were given an opportunity to make suggestions to improve the running of the Society. Suggestions that sub-committees should be elected by the committee, and that three members of the committee should be elected every two terms led to the drafting of a new constitution, in which these suggestions were included. On the following Saturday, 29th January, Mr. Brown, an official of the National Coal Board, showed two sound and two silent films to the Society illustrating various methods of coal mining and conditions underground. The films were interesting and informative, and Mr. Brown willingly answered the many questions asked {If him. On Saturday, 5th February, a play reading took place entitled" I killed the Count," produced by G. B. Jackson, "Esq. It was not read from behind screens as usual, with the actors invisible "to the audience, but was partially acted. The cast was as follows: Count Victor Mattoni, R. D. M. Jones; Polly, M. Samuel; Divisional Inspector Davidson, A. Mortimer; Martin, C. A. Ganz; Detective Raines, R. G.Vahey; P.-C. Clifton, A. K. Bull; Louise Rogers, G. C. Padmore; Renee de la Leese, M. D. Johnstone; Samuel Diamond, P. Murch; Johnson, J. H. Smalley; Mullett, R. C. Sandground; Bernard K. Frog, F. H. Brown; Viscount Sorrmgton, I. C. Howard; and the Narrator, D. Q. Miller. On Saturday, 12th February, there was a debate, the motion being "That trace is no place for Public Schools in the World of Tomorrow." The motion was proposed by R. G. Vahey, seconded by D. G. Burleigh, who maintained that the leaders capable of extricating Britain from her present position were not being produced by the Public Schools, whose place was being taken by Co-Educational Schools. C. West, seconded by H. W. Lamb, opposed the motion. They pointed out the advantages of a Public School education over all other forms of education and what splendid leaders they have continued to produce. The motion was put to the vote and defeated.

78

1'HE ELLESMRRIAN

VOL.

LlX.

No. 265

In. Big School on the evening of Saturday, 19th February, E. H. C. Hickox, Esq., gave a piano recital. Pieces played included:Sonata No.1 in F minor-Scherzo and Finale Beethoven Two Mazurkas (major and B minor) Chopin Jardins sous la Pluce Debussy Christmas Night and The Carol Singers Liapounaff Ragamuffin John Ireland Pastourelle Poulenc On Saturday, February 28th, there was a debate, the motion being "That Property is Theft." The motion was proposed by R. C. Sandground, seconded by D. F. Howard. They thought it wrong that the great landowners should own so much when the poor, as in the Gorbals, were living in squalor and filth. C. R. Ganz, seconded by C. West, opposed' the motion, and pointed out how ridiculous it would be if all property belonged to everybody. The motion was put to the vote and defeated. P. H. Harwood, Esq., gave a talk to the Society on Saturday, 5th March, on "The Effect of the Greek and Roman civilizations on our present way of life." He gave examples of a large number of words in our present language which were derived directly from the Greek. He pointed out that though the Greek religious beliefs were somewhat niiif, their great thinkers were responsible for some very advanced philosophic concepts on which all subsequent philosophy is an extension. They were also responsible' for work of great merit in mathematics, sculpture, and many of the finer arts. It is on the practical sense of the Romans on which most of our ideas of government administration, and our legal system, are based. The talk was extremely interesting and informative. The following Saturday, 12th March, R. C. Sandground gave a talk on "Famous Bridges," and D. F. Howard a talk on "The Manchester Ship Canal." R. C. Sandground described the construction and building of many of the world's famous bridges, including the Forth Bridge, Sydney Bridge, the San Francisco "Golden Gate" Bridge, and the Quebec Bridge. Many interesting photos of the bridges were shown, the lecturer commenting on them. D. F. Howard described the difficulty of passing the Bill through Parliament for permission to build the Ship Canal, for rival towns feared Manchester would out-distance them through being made an inland port. The numerous difficulties which had to be overcome in the building of it were described. It is the world's third biggest canal, being exceeded in size only by the Panama and Suez Canals. The last meeting of the term was held on Saturday, 19th March, when J. F. Heald, Esq., an Old Ellesmerian, gave a talk to the Society on "Blood Sports." Mr. Heald, who is a very keen huntsman, described the various officials of the hunt and the various ways of hunting foxes. He emphasised the fact that hunting foxes was a much better and also less cruel way of killing them than armed parties going out to shoot them. There was a discussion afterwards, and Mr. Heald did his best to answer the many questions put to him. D. Q. MILLER. Officials: President: G. B. Jackson, Esq. Vice-President: R. E. Farmer. Hon. Secretary: D. Q. Miller. Assistant Secretary and Treasurer: C. R. Ganz. Committee: R. V. Haygarth, J. R. Williams, R. G. Vahey, J. M. Anderson, J. C. Howard.

C.C.F.

Notes.

With better weather throughout the term than is normally experienced, Training has not been curtailed in any way; one Platoon has been training for Certificate "A" Part II Examination; the Signallers, a larger Section than usual, have' been preparing for Classification Tests, and the rest of the Contingent has carried on with the normal out-ofdoor pre-Certificate work.

MAY, 1949.

THE ELLESMERIAN

79

The Signal Classification had to be postponed at the last minute, and now will be held very early in the Summer Term. All 30 Cadets taking Part II passed the Examination, all except two passing very well. This has brought up the numbers to 47 Cadets to pass the Examination ip the last two Terms, making a to.tal of 60 Cadets in all who possess the Certificate. A Field Day was held on 14th March at Penley. Though the days on either siae of it were fine, the day itself was the wettest of the term. In a steady downpour the 'buses moved to the area, and then settled down into the mud until they were wanted again. The Platoons slithered off to their alloted positions for training, in greatcoats, with some of the smaller Recruits looking as though they were wearing dressing-gowns. It was only through the Instructors' energy and cheerfulness that any training was carried out at all. By 12.30, when there was lunch, everyone was wet through and miserable; one or two cadets had decided to be wetter still, and had rolled about in a shallow stream, giving the only comic touch to the day-except for the rifle oil that somehow seemed to get into the tea. After lunch the Contingent embussed for the school, and then, in dry clothes, finished off the day indoors, with the Instructors lecturing them on various subjects. . To make up for this, the film, "Nine Men," was procured for the last Tuesday of the Term, and was very much appreciated, for besides having a definite story, it is also instructive. Next term is, as usual, a busy one: the Inspecting Officer for the Annual Inspection on June 21st is Major-General G. N. Wood, C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O., M.C. Several other officers have also been invited over for the day. There is also the Drill Cup to be competed for between the Houses, and preparation for Camp. . Camp this year is being held near Rhyl, when all the Schools in Western Command are sending Contingents. The 'Camp Commandant will be Brigadier Inglis, the Camp Commandant of 18 Training Brigade, RA., at Park Hall, with a large staff to help him. O.C.T.U. Cadets from Eaton Hall will look after each Platoon of Cadets. The area for the Camp is close to excellent grounds for training, demonstrations and leisure; it is close to the sea, and the permanent Camp next door offers such attractions as Cinemas and Sports Fields. It is hoped to take a large Contingent this year to the Camp, which is being run as closely as possible on pre-War lines. The dates are from 26th July to 3rd August, Only those Cadets who go to Camp will qualify for taking the Certificate "A!' Examinations in the Christmas term. In future, to take the Examination, a Cadet must 'have been to Camp once. We welcome Mr. W. E. W. Smith to the Contingent, and congratulate him on being granted his Commission. Promotions this term are as follows:To be Sergeant: Cpl. Crane. To be Corporals: L/Cpl. Anderson, L/Cpl. Archer. To be Lance-Corporal: Cdt. Pritchard.

Scouts
This term in the Junior Troop much "time has been devoted to badge and test work. Most of the last term's new members are now well on the way to their Second Class. This term new members are working for their Tenderfoot. The Second Class Scouts 'have been trying to pass their Observers' Badge during the term, and the trails, laid by our Scoutmaster, were followed more by instinct than observation. We have taken advantage of the fine weather and have had several "wide games" during the term. The welcome abolition of clothes rationing has made it possible for some members of the troop to repair defieieneies in their uniform, and by next term we hope to have a smart and efficient troop. The Seniors this term have had many new ideas for their meetings, and the standard of Scouting in the Troop has greatly improved. The Brynbach contingent returned (much to the astonishment of the rest) complete with fresh ideas and enthusiasm.

80

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

We have experimented with various pioneering ideas, and have learnt some new tricks for rock and tree climbing. We hope to be able to put many of these ideas into -practlce at our summer camp, and we look forward to our standard of efficiency being maintained in the future. D.Q.M. K.F.H.D. NEW YEAR AT BRYNBACH.

At the New Year the Second Brynbach Expedition for Senior Scouts was held at the H.Q. Site, near Denbigh. Senior Scouts from parts of Great Britain were present, and Ellesmere were privileged in being allowed to send the largest contingent. We had heard such gruesome reports of the weather of the previous expedition, that some of us expected to meet Arctic conditions there. The authorities, however, had learnt much since the first expedition, and we soon discovered that if we were soaked to the skin (which we often were) we could always get warm and dry again. When all the members of the expedition had arrived. we were introduced to the Scouters and other people there, and were split up into OUF various troops and patrols. The activities of the Expedition were varied; bridge building, fox and rabbit hunting and mountain climbing being included in the programme. . The two most interesting days of the Expedition were spent in a journey to Snowdonia. It had been arranged that the Expedition should visit Snowdonia by 'bus, where we were to explore Snowdon under the guidance of the Vicar of Llanberis. Owing to the roads being impassable, we were unable to travel by 'bus. On the morning of the . intended journey we were woken at 5 a.m. Having breakfasted, we were given a small sum of money and instructed to find our own way to Llanberis, where we were to sleep. the night. By various methods the Expedition arrived at the destination at the appointed time. After dinner, an open discussion on the expedition was held, at which various interesting points were raised. The next day the Expedition returned to Brvnbach b;)- 'bus, having first explored Snowdon. The following day the Expedition broke up and we returned home. We had enjoyed the expedition very much, and had met many interesting people and learnt many new things. K.F.H.D.

ali

Hockey Notes. 1949

Captain: R. D. Viney. Vice-Captain: D. E. Roberts. Colours: J. C. Crossman, D. Pritchard, J. P. Parsonage, K. J. Crane, M. Samuel, . W. P. Howells, J. M. Leech, J. M. Anderson, and R. Jones. Captain of the 2nd XI: R. E. Farmer. So often does one have to begin these notes with complaints of the weather that it is more than cheering to be able to report what is probably an almost record Hockey Season, with bzight and friendly weather that made hockey pleasant to play and to watch without a single interruption. Not one match had to be scratched and all the House Matches were played off without difficulty. The standard of Hockey, played on pitches in much better condition than we have been used to, was high throughout the .school, while the School XI completed a most Satisfactory season, the results of which should delight all those past members of the school who have suffered in the inhospitable climatic conditions which so often make the short season a travesty. With seven members of Rogerson's 1948 XI still available, Viney. the new captain, had every reason to view the prospects with confidence which was soon to be justified. In all, eleven matches were played, six were won, one drawn and four lost. It is interesting to note that all the matches in which we were defeated were lost by the odd goal, while Calday Grange went down by five goals to nil and Wrekin were beaten 6-1 with only ten effective men on the field.

MAY,

1949.

THE ELLESMERIAN

81

With the goalkeeper, all .three halves, the outside-left, inside-left and centre-forward all still available from the 1948 XI; the immediate problem appeared to be to find a reliable pair of full backs which did not immediately appear to be forthcoming. The problem was soon solved by moving D. E. Roberts to right back from inside-left, and by D. Pritchard moving from left half to left back. These two very quickly settled down and became a most reliable defence which one rarely saw beaten. Pritchard was replaced at left half by J. P. Parsonage, who was clearly well worth a place and who took no time to establish himself as a very reliable performer. For some time there was much uncertainty about the composition of the forward line, which just about held its own in the early matches without doing anything like the damage that was expected of it. Crossman, the centre-forward, quickly got into his stride, and was clearly an outstanding player, but he was ill-supported by his Insides, and the situation was aggravated by the non-availability of W. P. Howells in early matches. Only M. Samuel, a new player at outside-right, really fulfilled his promise, and all too much depended on him and Crossman, with Viney's happy ability to score a large number of goals from corners. With the Halves and Backs playing consistently well, and with Leech generally adequate in goal, the early games suffered through the uncertainty forward which persisted until Howells' welcome return to his place on the left wing, after recovering from a minor operation. This released J. M. Anderson to cross over to outside-right, where he was much happier and quickly settled down and became very effective. Samuel vacated this position and moved inside where he, too, was very quickly at home. The line was completed by bringing in R. Jones from the Second XI to become the inside-left. This proved a most satisfactory answer and the line quickly became a formidable force which took a great deal of stopping. Crossman and Samuel developed a fine understanding and both wings were dangerous. Later, both Howells and Roberts were obliged to miss the final matches, through injury, but the XI had settled down and the inclusion of substitutes proved but little embarrassment. FIRST XI RESULTS. (Crossman 4, Farmer 2, Pearson). 26th Jim. THE MASTERS (h). Won 7-0. (Samuel, Crossman, Viney). 29th Jan. OSWESTRY H.C. (h). Drawn 3-3. (Samuel), 2nd Feb. THE PANTHERS H.C. Lost 1-2. (Viney). 5th Feb. SHREWSBURY H.C. Lost 1-2. (Crossman 4, 9th Feb. CALDAY GRANGE GRAMMAR SCHOOL. Won 5-0. Samuel). Sat. 12th Feb. LIVERPOOL COLLEGE. Lost 1-2. (Viney). Wed. 16th Feb. BIRKENHEAD SCHOOL. Won 2-1. (Viney, Jones). (Crossman 2, Viney, Samuel, Jones). Sat. 19th Feb. 68th REGT. R.A. Won 5-1. (Crossman 4, Samuel 2). Wed. 23rd Feb. WREKIN COLLEGE. Won 6-1. (Crossman 5, Archer 2, Samuel, Sat. 26th Feb. MONSANTO CHEMICALS. Won 9-1. Anderson). Wed. 2nd Mar. 1640.C.T.U. Lost 3-4. (Crossman, Viney, Samuel). Matches Played, 11; Matches Won, 6; Matches Lost, 4; Matches Drawn. 1. Goals For - 43. Goals Against - 17. Goal Scorers: J. C. Crossman 21, M. Samuel 8, R. D. Viney 6, R. Jones 2, Archer, 2, Farmer 2, J. M. Anderson 1, Pearson 1. Wed. Sat. Wed. Sat. Wed. CHARACTERS OF THE FIRST XI. J. M. LEECH (GoaD.-Has continued to be a reasonably reliable goalkeeper who has played one or two excellent games. Did not get a very great deal to do but showed less improvement than was hoped. D. E. ROBERTS (Vice-Captain and Right Back).-Turned into a most reliable full back who was very quick and used his speed to great advantage despite continual trouble with his foot. Had an excellent understanding with his partner and cleared well. D. PRITCHARD (Left Back).-A good solid back who is slow on his feet but very steady and difficult to get past. Hits hard and positions well. K. J. CRANE (Right Half).-Much improved on la-st year. Showed excellent constructive sense and much better positioning. Had a very good season.

82
R. D. VINEY (Captain

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

and Ceritre-Halfl-=Potentially the outstanding player in the XI, his stickwork is in a class by itself and his constructive play very much improved on last year. His positioning is still imperfect, however, and he is apt to hold the ball a little too long. Made a very good leader. . . J. P. Parsonage (Left Half).-A newcomer .to the XI, he had a very good season. He has a very great deal of Hockey sense and his stickwork compares well even with Viney's. Tremendously hard-working and seldom makes a mistake. J. M. Anderson (Outside-Right).-Very fast and very determined, he 'Improved considerably as the season went on. Developed a good centre and was always dangerous. M. SAMUEL (Inside-right).-Very fast and with a nice sense of position, he played extremely well both inside and on the wing. His stickwork was usually very quick and reliable and he thinks quickly. J. C.. CROSSMAN (Centre-Forward).-The outstanding forward and an excellent leader of the attack. His stickwork was very good and he showed a quick brain in attack. His twenty-one goals in eleven matches speak for themselves. R. JONES (Inside-Left).-Somewhat slower and less experienced than the rest of the line he nevertheless did some very valuable work and always went hard. A little slow on the ball- as yet and his stickwork has still to improve. W. P. HOWELLS (Outside-Left).-An expert in a difficult position which he filled ably last season. He was .always fast and dangerous and we probably never saw him at his best, as he was unfit for the early matches, and, slipping a cartilege in the Wrekin match, missed the final games as well. . Full Hockey Colours were Awarded to the whole XI. Viney and Roberts held them from 1948. The following also played for the 1st XI: R. .E. Farmer <inside-Forward and Full Back), A. C. Pearson (Inside-Forward), T. G. Archer (Outside-Left), D. G. Howells (OusideLeft) and M. A. Wallace (Full Back).
THE SECOND ELEVEN.

The 2nd XI, under R. E. Farmer's Captaincy, played four matches, winning one, losing one and drawing twice. A number of players were called upon, and the XI, although giving a satisfactory account of itself, never reached any very high standard of performance. The half backs were adequate, but the full backs were slow to clear and were apt to get ruffled. A forward line which saw many changes never showed any great scoring potentialities and was too slow on the ball. Results:Calday Grange G.S. DRAWN 2-2. (Pearson and Howells Il), Liverpool 2nd XI. DRAWN 0-0. Birkenhead 2nd XI. LOST O-l. Wrekin 2nd XI. WON 1-0. (Bond). The Senior House Competition' was won by Meynell, who beat Wakeman in the Final. In the Junior Competition, Wakeman beat Meynell. B.B.

Squash Notes.
This term the school has played two matches and has been successful in both of them. The first match against Wrekin was the culmination of a very successful day, as we had also beaten them in the 1st XI and 2nd XI hockey matches. We also played Mr. Tomkinson's team. This was an entirely new fixture. During the match some excellent Squash was seen, especially in the game between the Headmaster and Mr. Tomkinson, who played for over an hour in. hot-house conditions. We hope these fixtures, which proved most enjoyable, will be renewed.

THE STEEPLECHASE, 1949.

A. Hesketh leading the Field at the Start.

[Photo: E. A. Wilson, Esq.

A. Hesketh well ahead at the Lee radio-transmitting point. [Photo: E. A. Wilson, Esq.

ATHLETIC

EVENTS.

J. P. Parsonage

winning

the Senior 100 Yards Final [Photo: E. A. Wilson, Esq.

The "Backs"

of the College. [Photo:

E. A. Wilson, Esq.

MAY, 1949.

THE

ELLESME:R.IAN

83

The results of the two matches were as follows:-: v. WREKIN COLLEGE. 1. RD. Viney beat J. B. Nichols. 7-9. 2...:....9.10-8. 9-7. 9-3. 2. R M. Carver beat B. L. Peace. 9-5. 7-9. 9-4. 9-0. 3. A. N. Fenton beat R. Mortimer. 9--4. 9-5. 9-3. Result-s-School won 2 sets to L

v. MR TOMKINSON'S Squash Team.

. 1. 2. 3. 4.

N. Tomkinson beat Headmaster. 6-9. 8-10. 10-9. 10-9. 10-9. Eric Tomkinson beat R D. Viney•.9-1. 9-2. 9-3. P; H. Harwood. Esq.•beat Mr. A. Tomkinson. 4-9. 9-4. 9-4. 5-9. 9-7. it M. Carver beat Mr. Dent. 9-0. 9-2. 9-2. 5. R. Mortimer beat Mr. G. K. Tomkinson. 6-9. 9-4, B-2, 9-3. Result-Ellesmere College won 3 sets to 2. 'RD.V.
THE STEEPLECHASE.

On Thursday, 4th March. the annual Steeplechase was held over the traditional course, Wakeman again retaining the cup. The first six in each House, and the points gained, are given below:SENIOR: Wakeman: 1, Murch (7); 2. Leaney (9); 3. Jones iv (12); 3, Morgan iii (14); 5. Howells ii (15); 6. Anderson i (18). Total: 75. . Talbot: 1, Hesketh (1); 2, Paterson (2); 3. Davies v (6); 4, Drinkwater (8); 5. West iii (10); 6. Haig-Jones (17). Total: 44. Meynell: I. Pinnington (3); 2, Crossman (4); 3, Harrop (5);4, Archer (11); 5. Leech (16); 6, Baker (21). Total: 60. . Woodard: 1, Whalley (13); 2, JOl1esx (28); 3, Godbert (31); 4, Shorrock (37); 5, Poston i (39); 6, Hughes v (43), Total: 191. . JUNIOR:. . Wakeman:' 1, Anderson ii (1); 2, Cook (6l); 3, Davies vi (8); 4. Thompson (11); 5, Lewis iv (12); 6, Bailey (13). Total: 51!. . Talbot: 1. Tomlinson (4!); 2. Wynne-Griffith (4!); 3. Brown vi (14); 4. Smalley ii (15); 5, Sproson (20; 6, Parton (29). Total: 88. . Meynell: 1. Squire ii (2); 2, Russell-Taylor (6!); 3. Davies iii (17); 4, Lindsay (20); 5, Simcoek (22); 6, McDonald (23). Total: 90!. Woodard: 1. Leech ii (3); 2, Miln (9); 3, Davies viii (10); 4. West I (16); 5. Clough (18); 6. Watson (19). Total: 75. Order:L Wakeman 126! points. 2. Talbot 132 points. 3. Meynell 150! points. '4. Woodard 266 points. It is not possible to organise any Athletics Event without calling on a large number of people to act as Judges and Scorers, and therefore we should like to thank all those Masters who gave up their time to the different Athletics Events this term. in whatever capacity. Without their aid the Sports could not have been held.

Athletics
The Athletic Sports were held during. the last full week of term. all the Heats and Finals being concentrated into seven days. This was an improvement on the usual custom of spreading the events out over a fortnight. Actually. the weather did not allow the full time to be given to House practising. but in spite of this, results were very creditable.

84

THE ELLESMERIAN

VOL.

LIX.

No. 265

Parsonage was Senior Victor Ludorum, winning the 100 yards, the 220 yards and 440 yards, and coming seeond in the Long Jump, High Jump and Hurdles. Koetser was the Middles Victor Ludorum with firsts in the Long ,Jump, High Jump and Hurdles, and gaining a place in the 220 and 440 yards. Anderson ii was Junior Victor Ludorum, winning the 100 yards, 220 yards, 440 yards, Long Jump and High Jump-all the events for which he entered. Records were broken in many events: in the Weight, by Ivey; in the Middles 880 yards by Moss, and by Anderson ii in all five events in which he came first-a record in itself. Squire ii, a Bantam, who came second in the Junior Long Jump, also broke the existing Junior Record and the Bantam 220 yards record. The Middles, Junior and Bantam Age-Groups were introduced in 1943. Results are given below:SENIORS. 100 yards: I, Parsonage (R); 2, Samuel (R); 3, Jones iv (Y); 4, Roberts v (Y);5, Roberts iv (B); 6, Roberts ii (VL Time: 103/5 secs. • 12{)yards Hurdles: 1, Roberts v (Y); 2, Parsonage (R); 3, Roberts iv (B); 4, Murch (Y). Time: 16 3/5 secs. 220 yards: I, Parsonage (R); 2, Jones iv (Y); 3, Samuel (R); 4, Roberts ii (V); 5, Harrop (R); 6, Brown iii (V). Time: 25 1/5 secs. 440 yards: I, Parsonage (R); 2, Jones iv (Y); 3, Roberts v .(y); 4, Samuel .(R); 5, Roberts ii (V); 6, Brown iii (V). Time: 56 2/5 sees. . 880yards: 1, Jones iv (Y); 2, West iii (B); 3, Roberts iv (B); 4,.Murch (Y); 5, Crossman (R); 6, Drinkwater (B). Time: 2m. 163/5 secs. Mile: 1, Hesketh (B); 2, Murch (Y); 3, Roberts iv (B); 4, West iii (B); 5, Drinkwater (B); 6, Pinnington (R). Time: 5m. 144/5 secs. Long Jump: I, Jones iv (Y) and Parsonage (R); 3, Roberts iv (B); 4, Harrop (R); 5, Wallace (V); 6, Kingston i (R). Dist.: 17 ft. 61 ins. High Jump: I, Roberts iv (B); 2, Parsonage (R); 3, Crossman (R) and Tasker (R); 5, Howard ii (R) and Kingston i (R). Height: 4 ft. 11i ins. Weight: 1, Ivey (R); 2, Kingston i (R); 3, Crane (V); 4, Samuel (R); 5, Poston i (V); 6, Murch (Y). Dist.: 38 ft. Discus: 1, Ivey (R); 2, Roberts iv (B); 3, Pearson (R); 4, Crane (V); 5, Pritchard (V); 6, Kingston i (RL Dist.: 98 ft. 8i ins. Javelin: I, Roberts v (Y); 2, Ivey (R); 3, Kingston i (R); 4, Pritchard (V); 5, Evans i (B); 6, Wilson i (Y). Dist.: 118ft. 31 ins. MIDDLES. 100 yards: I, McDonald (R); 2, Leech ii (V); 3, Tate (V); 4, Cook (Y); 5, Bailey (Y); 6, Nichols (R). Time: 11 2/5 secs. ' 120 yards Hurdles: I, Koetser (Y); 2, Robinson ii (B); 3, Smalley i (R); 4, Bryant (B). Time: 17 4/5 secs. 220 yards: I, McDonald (R); 2, Scarratt (B); 3, Bailey (Y) and Koetser (Y); 5, Nichols (R); 6, Tate (V). Time: 27 2/5 sees. . 440 yards: I, Moss (R); 2, Bailey (Y); 3, Leech ii (V); 4, Cook (Y); 5, McDonald (R); 6, Koetser (Y). Time: 62 1/5 sees. 880 yards: I, Moss (R); 2, Bailey (Y); 3, Nankivell (Y); 4, Leeeh ii (V); 5, Sharpe i (Y); 6, Nichols (R). Time: 2m. 22 3/5 secs. . Long' Jump: I, Koetser (Y); 2, Rees (B); 3, Cook (Y); 4, Nichols (R); 5, Smalley i (R); 6, Bailey (Y). Dist.: 16 ft. 4 ins. High Jump: I, Koetser (Y) and Scarratt (B) and Rees (B); 4, Sharpe i (Y) and McDonald (R); 6, Bailey (Y) and Wynne-Griffith (B). Height: 4 ft. 3 ins. JUNIORS. 100 yards: I, Anderson ii (Y); 2, Wells (Y); 3, Moore (V); 4, Gordon (R); 5, Grant (B); 6, Sproson (B). Time: 11 2/5 sees, 120 yards Hurdles: 1, Kingston ii (R); 2, Gunstone-Guy (B); 3, Sproson (B); 4, Weedall (B). Time: 19 4/5 sees.

MAY, 1949.

THE ELLESMERIAN

85

220 yards: 1, Anderson ii (Y); 2, Kingston ii (R); 3, Davies viii (B); 4, Russell-Taylor (R); 5, Sproson (B); 6, Lindsay (R). Time: 26 4/5 sees. . _ High Jump: 1, Anderson ii (Y); 2, Squire ii (R); 3, Kingston ii (R); 4, Gunstone-Guy (B); 5, Lewis iv (Y); 6, Lloyd (Y) and Keenan CB). Height: 4 ft. 91 ins. Long Jump: 1, Anderson ii (Y); 2, Squire ii (R); 3, Kingston ii (R); 4, Sharpe iii (Y); 5, Moore (V); 6, Black (R). Dist.: 16 ft. 1! ins. BANTAMS. 100 yards: 1, Squire ii (R); 2, Parton (B); 3, Sharpe iii (Y>. Time: 122/5 sees. 220 yards: 1, Squire ii (R); 2, Sharpe iii (Y); 3, Fitt (V). Time: 30 sees. Points:1. 2. 3. 4. . Meynell 407l. Wakeman 348 5/6. Talbot 222 2/3. Woodard 94.
RELA Y .SPORTS.

On the last Thursday of the term, as by custom, the Relay Sports were held. Mist, which had been with us for the last few mornings, did not disperse, and so the afternoon was cold and sunless. Yet the Sports were more exciting than usual, for the result was not decided until the last race, the Senior Medley. Meynell won the cup from Wakeman. The results are as follows:Senior Hurdles: Wakeman, Meynell, Talbot, Woodard. Middles Hurdles: Wakeman, Meynell, Talbot, Woodard. Junior 100: Wakeman, Talbot, Woodard, Meynell. Middle Medley: Meynell, Woodard, Wakeman, Talbot. Junior 660: Meynell, Talbot, Wakeman, Woodard. Senior 100: Meynell, Woodard, Wakeman, Talbot. Junior Medley: Wakeman, Meynell, Talbot, Woodard. Middles 880: Wakeman, Meynell, Talbot, Woodard. Senior Medley: Meynell, Wakeman, Woodard, Talbot. Points:Meynell Wakeman Talbot Woodward

EVENT:

7 10
4 2

2 12 18 7 3

3 13 26 12 6

4 23 30 14 13

5 31 33 19 14

6 4] 37 21 21

7 48 47 25 23

8 53 55 28 24

9 68
65

Total Order 68 1
65

31 30

31 30

3 4

Captain Berkeley, the Adjutant at the end of the Sports.

from Oteley Park Camp, kindly gave away the cups .

Contemporaries received: The Salopian, The Caldeian, The Herefordian, The Denstonian, The Lancing Magazine, The Moretonian, The Leodiensian, The Ardingly Annals, The Foyle College Magazine, The Gresham, The Wellingburian, The Wrekinian, The Hurst Johnian, The Breconian, The Barrovian, The Worksopian, The C.R., The S.S.M. Quarterly.

--"

'-''-_-

cC"":' w ...... Z §l

z~
-

zo.. o~
c"<::

C III Q) ....

z:E
..J

Or....

~~

oU

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN CHRONICLE

87

O.E.
May, 1949

CHRONICLE
No. 76

President: R. T. FIRTH. Vice-President: D. A. J. SEDDON. Hon. Secretary and Treasurer: MALCOLM STOKES, M.C., Haughton, Ellesmere. Sub-Secretaries: Ellesmere: W. L. SUMSION, The College. Manchester: H. T. BARRON, Sheringham, Chatsworth Road: Ellesmere Port, Eccles, Liverpool: D. A. J. SEDDON, Lyndhurst, Pinewood Drive, Heswall, Wirrall. London: K. A. H. Rogers, 21., Links Road, Epsom, Surrey. Cardiff: R. J. HEDLEY, Trees Heol-y-coed, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. Birmingham: VACANT. O.E. ANNUAL MEETING, -tth June, l!l·HI. . CRICKET MATCH, (jth June, at 11.1;) a.m. Please write to J. W. Nankivell at College if willing to play. The Captain of the O.E. XI will be H. C. Rigby. Squash, Tennis and Shooting Matches will be arranged on June 5th. O.E. RUGGER MATCH. To be played on 1st October, 10·W. Full details of Annual MeetIng and other arrangements are given in special notices sent to all members of the Club.
O.E. Colours

are obtainable from Davies and Sons, Scotland Street, Ellesmere.

Editorial
During the course of a term, the Editor of the O.E. Chronicle receives a number of letters, often of great length and full of views and news. The views expressed vary enormously, but there is a tendency for them to follow one of two classes. Amongst those who have no sons of school age, or have no children, or only have girls, there is an idea that discipline at schools is not what it was, and they think it should be tightened up. From those who have sons such criticism is so rare as to be called negligible. If anything, they think the rules are rather rigorous and perhaps too numerous. One writer has expressed the views of a large number of O.E's, especially of those who left more than twenty years ago, and with his permission we quote extracts, append some comments, and hope to have further letters from other O.E's who may read these notes. Years ago there was held a solemn function each Monday night during Preparation. The Prefects were absent from Big School, for it was '.'P.M." nig'ht;. therefore they were seated in the Library. After an interminable length of time, the Junior Prefect came into Big School and solemnly informed certain boys that they were "wanted." The culprits lined up outside the Library, rigid, silent. The Junior Prefect entered, reported, and came. out to pace the corridor. One by one, each boy was called in to face the Captain of School. To right and left of him sat the Prefects. The Prefects who had "named" the boy started the charge. The Captain of School enquired and probed and sifted. The boy was dismissed to wait outside. The Prefects criticized the evidence. The Captain wrote in the Book a report and suggested punishment. When all the cases had been judged, the Prefects were dismissed and the Captain reported to the Headmaster. All boys knew that they could
r

88

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN CHRONICLE

appeal to him. Few ever did. The Captain then led the Headmaster into the Library. The Captain carried canes. the Head his "square." The Head faced the south window; the Captain of School the west wall. The boy was swished. Occasionally. the Head would say "Not so hard." but usually all was horrid silence. The boy returned to Prep. The Head returned to the study. the Captain followed. A discussion on the state of the school was sometimes held and the Book was deposited. One could then breathe freely for another week. We have briefly described the ..P.M.... for few members of the Club remember the details; and yet it is possible that the awful solemnity of "P.M." had more effect (good or bad?> on day to day disciplfne than any other influence in the school. and those who can recall accurately their childish emotions will no doubt be able to corroborate this statement. "Many O.E·s regret the passing of this system . . . It added dignity to the Prefects. It certainly ensured that no boy was. or could feel that he had been. unjustly punished." Such comments .as these are. perhaps. nay. probably correct. but it does not necessarily mean that the gentler methods. the less inquisitional manner of today. are less effective. Private "hates" were impossible under the old method. and only stern measures could have kept in awe the tougher elements of the school. It is true that the Prefects were often held in awe. even terror. It is true. too. that they went to great lengths to keep up to the high standards demanded of their dignity and position. But it may be doubted if this was good for them as individuals. In any case. the whole arrangement of school life. the organisation. was then quite different from today. The school was managed by the Headmaster and the Prefects. The "Dorm. Masters" were interested mainly in the discipline of dormitories only. They were not "House Fathers" in the same sense as they now are. and there was the bitterest rivalry between the two dormitories of each colour. so that the "Dorm: Master" himself had to be an arbitrator as often as a leader. Furthermore. there were no House Dayrooms for seven of the nine dormitories. The Dorm. Prefects had little authority outside dormitory and no authority over boys outside their own dormitory. For these. and many other reasons. the Headmaster had to be himself the chief disciplinarian over trifling matters as well as weighty affairs. This he could only well accomplish if his Prefects were set upon a lofty pedestal and were granted power greater than is now necessary. When the Captain and Prefects were outstanding leaders. discipline was good. .When they were not. then conditions were rough. and not infrequently. deplorable. In our opinion. the present arrangements are more suitable and more efficacious. And there can be little doubt that the bulk of the younger boys are far happier. It may be useful. for the historical record. to recount another "tradition" of the days of twenty-five or more years ago, which has gone from the memory of all but the relatively old. There was a bar baric custom. called to mind by a recent letter. "It was my first P.M. as a Prefect. I had been appointed the previous Thursday and had my mobbing after lunch on the following day. This was held in the Sixth Form room [now Mr. Feist's classroom]. WI! had to run round the desks a few times whilst the Prefectsstanding at vantage points-wielded knotted towels. etc .• as we ran the gauntlet. We were then considered to have been admitted to the brotherhood." This 'strange custom had been introduced early in our history. A Prefect's mobbing in the minds of the younger members. had all the fascination of terrifying tortures at the hands of dreadful inquisitorial executioners. The Big School was placed out of rounds for an hour. The masses congregated in Ante-School. The Prefects passed into Big School. changed into odd, gear. and wielding weapons. The newly-appointed Prefect then entered and endured the shouts. yells. bangings and beatings. After a suitable·jnterval the Prefects and he emerged. often whole and unperturbed. He had been initiated; now he could get on to his pedestal and hope to behave well enough to stay on it in dignity and honour. We forget when this childish ritual was abandoned. but we cannot pretend that we feel any regrets that it has gone. though we shall welcome correspondence if it can prove that it ·had any value. In a school there is always so much that is the same over the years. so much too that has changed. It is the hardest art to recapture the atmosphere of a period. particularly in a school where "generations" come. have their little day of importance and pass on to the unforgotten. But there must be readers of the O.E. Chronicle who can clearly recall incidents of their day which indicate the "climate of opinion" at that moment. If they could flnd time to write to us. their letters would be most welcome.

TH~ OLD ~LLESM~RIAN

CHRONICLE

89.

Many O.E's will have heard with regret of the death of two former Senior Chaplains of the Division, who died within a few weeks of each other. Canon Phillips was perhaps less known by his generation of Ellesmerians than his successor, Canon Maynard Smith, but his great influence in the Church, and in the Diocese particularly, extended to Ellesmere. The extraordinary qualities of mind and personality of·Canon Maynard Smith made him the friend and confldent of an immense variety of Ellesmerians. Canon Dibben, the ViceProvost, is now Senior Chaplain.
:110 The Provost, Canon Mortimer, was so recently appointed that few O.E's will know him, though Ellesmere has already learnt to appreciate his great gifts. It was therefore with keen interest that we read of his appointment to the See of Exeter, though it cannot but be tinged with regret that he is to go so far away from us. Ellesmere has known but three Provosts in half a century. Older O.E's will hear with pleasure that Provost Talbot's son has become a Fellow, and, .of course, the late Provost, the .Earl of Cavan, and his son, Lord Kilcoursie, are still Fellows.

THE BIRMINGHAM O.E. DINNER. Birmingham O.E's held their first dinner since 1938at the Imperial Hotel, Birmingham, on January 29th of this year, and a very representative gathering was present for the occasion. Every credit must be given to all those who made journeys from far-distant corners of the Midlands, not the least of whom were the Headmaster and the Secretary of the Club, who defied all threats of fog and ice to win through and appear ten minutes before D-Hour. After an excellent dinner, W. E. C. Ledsam proposed the toast of the Old Ellesmerian Club, expressing the gratification he felt at the good attendance, which amply repaid all the hard work put in by the Local Secretary. He welcomed Malcolm Stokes, and conveyed the good wishes of the Birmingham O.E's on his recent appointment as Secretary of the O.E. Club. Malcolm Stokes replied on behalf of R. T. Firth, who had been stricken down with 'flu at the very last moment. J. C. Copeland proposed the toast of The Visitors, and expressed a .warm welcome to two well known former members of the Staff in the persons of Mr. Frayling, Housemaster of the Violets 1939-1947, and the Rev. E. F. Walters, Chaplain and Reds Housemaster 1932-1937. The Rev. Walters responded on behalf of the Visitors, and made one of his characteristic speeches, well within the time limit, paying tribute to the strong bonds of friendship which helped to unite the local branches of the O.E. Club. A. G. Shepherd proposed the toast of The School and The Staff, thanking those present for the help they had given in making the dinner the success it was. He read a message from the Rev. Hedworth, former Headmaster 1910-1926, which was received with applause. . The Headmaster closed the evening with a reminiscent speech in brilliant style, calling to mind many of the famous characters and incidents of the Ellesmere between the wars. He reminded his listeners of the solid achievements of the school since the war, and cheered them all with news of his success in bringing about a considerable increase in the numbers of life members of the Club; Talking continued after the dinner was over, until with much relief at the absence of fog the members dispersed. The following were present:The Headmaster, Malcolm Stokes, Rev. E. E. F. Walters, N. W. Frayling, A. G. Shepherd, G. Sapey, J. C. Copeland, W. E. C. Ledsam, M. A. Illston and friend, C.T. Snape and friend, G. F. Woodard, R. A. Philp, A. D. Sale, G. A. Sale, R. Dewsbury, F. W. Wood, R. Large, J. E. Wells, R. S. Carver, J. D. Carver, I. St. L. Morris, H. J. S. Hilton, E. W. Barrett, H. S. Whittle, G. J. Lloyd-Davies, P. Wyld, H. Portlock -and friend, P. Gray, G. Parker, E. A. Tasker, F. C. Ling, H. C. Shingler.

90

THE OLD EtLESMERtAN

CHRONICLE

THE LONDON DINNER. K. A. H. Rogers, the London Secretary, must have been gratified at the very great social success of his organisation, for the dinner was obviously a tremendous success, even though the numbers were somewhat few. The President travelled south from his Lancashire fastness, accompanied by the past-President, H. S. Wynn-Jones. Frascatis had put a large room at the disposal of the Club. The dinner was satisfactory and the "meeting" before long enough for old friends to exchange greetings and newcomers to make fresh acquaintance. The speeches were brief and few. R. T. Firth, from the chair, spoke with his accustomed witty brevity. A. G. Shepherd proposed the toast of School and staff in pretty terms, and the Headmaster dealt with this proposal in his accustomed 'brilliant manner, mixing grave .and gay, reminiscence, and hopes for the future; the simple and chatty with the profound. ''The Theme," as one wrote who was present, "the theme that struck me most was that one never forgets frtendships made at school. As one goes on through life· friends are made, but their names slip away as time passes. Y.et 20, 30, 40 years from our . school days one can meet an old school friend and recall with astonishing .Clarity events of the far distant past." After the Local Secretary had drawn attention to the monthly meeting, now being held at the Holyrood Hotel on the second Friday of each month [meet at Hotel in Well Street, W.l, from 7.30] the meeting was continued until midnight. The evening was a great success and a very happy one. Those present included, apart from the President, the Local Secretary and the Headmaster; the Hon. Secretary of the O.E. Club, Captain Malcolm Stokes, M.C., D. B. Brown, J. Shepherd, J. D. Lamb, A. G. Shepherd, H. P. Lacey, M. E. C. D. Johnstone, Capt. T. C. Thornton, E. Peskin, A. J. A. Compton, G. Evans, V. Morcombe, E. Rogers, Po'W. Dockrill, Capt. B. K. Clayden, Ll. Rowlands, Capt. R. Walker, G. Olive, H. S. Wynne-Jones, H. Barron, J.Carter, H. C. Shingler, J. Block, Capt. T. C. T. Nichols, R.N., K. Berry, W. Jenkyn-Jones, F. J. Dwight, N. L. Evans, G. Gemmell.

FIFTY YEARS AGO. Following the precedent of the last Prefects' recitation by Hume-Smith-what there was of it was fiery indeed-but his memory seemed entertainment, the actual [sic] farce was preceded by a flute solo by Davis i ... and a to have taken a holiday." Rugger. Aberystwyth (University College of Wales), two tries; S.O.C., nil. Denstone, one goal, two tries; S.O.C., one goal. O.E's, one goal; S.O.C., one try. Prize DIstribution. "Shortly before the end of last term we had the pleasure of .a visit from H. C. Richards, Esq., Q.C., M.P., well known as an experienced lawyer, a distinguished member of the House of Commons, and, best of all, an enthusiastic Churchman. He distributed the Oxford Local Certificates, Pitman's Shorthand Certificates, Swimming Medals and Certificates in the Great Schoolroom. At the same time he made some useful remarks upon the advantages of good shorthand, book-keeping and journalist instruction in public schools, which was received with loud applause." ' Officers: Horton (Captain of School), Powell i, Hume-Smith, Hargreaves ii, Cooper iii, Harvey iii, Powell ii, Henderson, Graham, Lumsden, Ward (Prefects), G. A. D. Harvey (Captain of Cricket), A. Hume-Smith (Editor of Ellesmerian). Athletic Sports took place "on 11th April in cold and wet weather. The Layard Challenge Cup was won by- Conqueror and the Headmaster's Victor Ludorum Medal by G. A. D. Harvey." The Committee "also agreed to guarantee the sum of £2 towards having "the Rock" in the Playintg Fields removed." [It is now by the Tennis Court]. Correspondence. ..... My acquaintance with the Ellesmerian commenced with the first number, for my eldest brother was one of the first boys to enter the school. In time I felt as if I knew some of the boys and masters quite well. I like the serial tale better than anything else. Boys' tales are always so exciting, and' their daring exploits so numerous .... Are you surprised, Mr. Editor, when I tell you I love the school? Do you ask why? Simply because my brothers have been there and told me all about the

THE

ELLESMERIAN

Prefects' Entertainment.

.~....

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN

CHRONICLE

91

school and the games and the "scrapes" and impositions connected with it. The term 'gated' seems quite familiar to me. How romantic it must have been to have gone out and had tea-fresh eggs, cake and jam-at some favourite house for the modest sum of 5d. or 6d., or to return to school from the village with one's pocket laden with jam, tins of salmon, or even pickles. I know I used to hear tell of cocoa and coffee being made in the Bathroom. When I think of all the fun I have missed, especially pillow fights and games, I feel sad. '!'hen aaaln, I have always envied my brothers because they could, at school, go \lut and gather wild flowers.... I often longed to see the Chapel at Easter. it must na ... looked beautiful .... e I shall always take a great interest in everything connected with the SChOOl. 'AN OLD BOY'S SISTER',"

O.E. News
year.
Michael ATden has left the R.A.F. and hopes to go up to Durham University this Donald AppleyaTd takes his Finals this year. He was in Scotland gaining practical experience on various factory sites. He has been to Norway, walking in some of its Nilder .nountain areas. Appleyard has been to the O.E. monthly meeting and there met many of his contemporaries Jenkyn Jones, Peter Lloyd, Robin Rathbone, and the Carlisle brothers (James Carlisle "with moustache, and in the Bank of England; his brother in engeneermg"), Pepi Jelinek, Peter Courtenay, Ken Clayden, P. Garmon Jones, Knight and Peter t;vckshoot. Appleyard recently saw John Graves and John James in the St. Mary's Hospital production of the "Pirates of Penzance": James was in charge of the whole procecQlngs-"full evening dress and baton." He had also heard from W. Thomas vi, who had been sent to Egypt by mistake, but had now returned to Aldershot for five months. FTank Dwight writes from Sandhurst that he is in his last term. Graves and Atkinson have "passed out." Donnisthorpe and Shepherd are also in the final term. "Nick" Evans and Colin Gemmell are others there. Dwight is in the cross-country team and in charge of his company's sports. 1. Low is undergoing training as a masseur in London. S. L. M. Hasleton is with the Air Ministry Meteorological Office. Max POTritt has been training in several large catering establtsh-nents and is now in Huddersfield with Northern Caterers Ltd. He finds the work fascinating. His brother, John is still at St. Mary's; there are more O.E's at this hospital thal' from any other school. Peter EveTaU, son of R. J. Everall. Is now with his battalion-the rst Royal Berks. -at Asmara. He went here via Cairo and Khartoum, and found the journey overland hot but interesting. He hears from Pip Carter, now in Colombo and shortly due home, and Perl!" Bridden, now in Liverpool for a course. Michael AbTaham arrived in East Africa last autumn. He had a week in Nairobi and a week at Nyeri before moving to his new forest area - "Tropical Rain Forest, teeming with game, and nothing is known about it. There is excellent fishing. Mt. Ker ya is about 20 miles away, as is the nearest other European. Have got an excellent Chev. truck, also a mule, but do most of my safari work on foot. The forest is essentially evergreen and extends from the plateau forests, 5,500 feet, to the bamboo zone at 9,500 feet. There are two main species-East African Camphor and Podo, as well as a great many other hardwoods." He is at present living in tents, but is building his house. He has had tun learning the language! Lieut, P. D. Willcock, R.N., has for some time been stationed at R.N.A.S. Culdrose in Cornwall. We are delighted to hear of his more than local reputation as an artist in both oils and water colours. The current North Staffordshire Artists' exhibition had two of his oils hanging. His two-years-old son, Martin, he hopes to send to Ellesmere. His brother, R. D. Willcock, is also in the Navy doing two years' National Service. He made a name for himself in Guy's Hospital Rugger and he still plays rugl(er and hockey. After service at Portsmouth. he went to Londonderry. where his frigate. H.M.S. Loch

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN

CHRONICLE

Fada, is now based. He is M.O. of the frigate flotilla. We send him our congratulations on his marriage to Miss Jennifer Crosland a year ago. I. W. Jones, now studying architecture at University College, London, has seen P. W. Do::krill., who is on the business side of Decca Gramophones, P Culverhouse, now with H.M.V., Peter Brown doing dentistry, also at University College, R. A. Rowley doing accountancy at Chester, and A. G. Grant, who hopes to go to Sandburst. Jones was going to the National and called at Ellesmere en route, as did R. J. Perkins, now farming in Pembrokeshire. A. S. Evans 'has completed his course in Horticulture and has now joined the staff of Messrs. Ryders of Hatfield. His brother, Eric Franklyn Evans, lost his life during the war. In a recent letter, his mother sends good wishes to the school "of which we have so many happy memories and in which we retain so keen a pride and interest." Colin Smith visited Ellesmere with his parents during March. He returns to Cambridge this year, but has abandoned architecture as a career and -intends to practice law in Morecambe. The "Smith Memorial Prize" was endowed by his parents in memory of their other son, Flying Officer T. K. B. Smith, who lost his life during the war. .T. W. Fazackerley has recently joined the Club aUer losing touch for many years. He is now a Director of P.B. Cow and Co., Ltd., the Hertfordshire Rubber Co., Ltd., the Acme Tin Stamping Co.; and numerous other Rubber, Plastic and Engineering factorfes. He was in the Yellows more than 25 years ago, and he retains happy memories of "Charlie" Beresford and "Heady." Ninian de R. Barclay is now working with the East Sussex County Library, after service at Ashford, Kent. A spell on a farm has enabled him to regain his health after a breakdown two years ago. Ronald Kenyon. finds life as a pharmacist hectic since the new Health Act. He practises in Liverpool. . Peter Mead Kidd was married on 21st August to Miss Diana Pickthall, of Southport. He expects to sit for his final examination of the R.I.B-.A.in July . Mead Kidds new home is in Nottingham, where also lives A. Cooper, now in the Municipal Engineer's Office. H. Mooney has kindly sent some precious copies of The Ellesmerian, which the Editor requires. He is a building contractor. One of his sons is in the Junior School. The younger is still at home. He also has a daughter. Their home is in Liverpool. John Hedley finds his new life in accountancy so busy that he has had to resign the local secretaryship of the Club. Cardiff is the only centre which has not been reorganised since the war ended, but it is hoped that the large number of South Walians will meet this year. . Col. L. R. H. Keatinge is D.D.M.S., Southern Command, a job which entails much travelling Inhis area. He now lives in Salisbury. R. Eckersley, G. Daltry, Val Insley and R. Horsman and the Lea brothers were amongst the many visitors at Ellesmere during the last week-end of term. Several of them saw the "St, Oswald Players" present several plays in the "St. Oswald Theatre." These odd names are synonyous for the House Plays, as we were ccntent to call them, which took place in what most of us call Big School. The production of them was excellent, and the various producers did marvels to find histrionic ability in unsuspected quarters. Eckersley finishes at Trinity College, Cambridge, this year and then goes to Chichester Theological College. D. R Laughton, now at Worcester College, Oxford, g(les to Westcott House, Cambridge, for his theological training. Daltry, also at Cambridge, is now reading Chemistry and Biology. Val Insley at the end of his surveying course goes to the U.S.A. for a holiday this year. Horsman aroused considerable interest by having a motor bicvcle accident during his visit, so that he spent much of his time in the sickroom being stitched up I P. A. Walton, now in the 'R.A.F., also visited the school to see the plays. Batho, also in the' R.A.F., is able to come home most week-ends. J. D. Mason, after training at Catterick, qualified as a radio mechanic, was later at Eaton Hill for infantry training as a cadet, and then was commissioned in the Manchester Regiment, but has never served with this Regiment. His first posting was to Carlisle, but he was soon in Egypt before

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN

CHRONICLE

going to Eritrea, where he was with the King's Own Royal Regiment, now being posted to Cyprus. He expects to be demobilised in the summer and then will resume his medical training at Edinburgh or Manchester. , J. R. MOTris is still working hard down the mines. E. L. Price, one of the three Elson brothers so well known in the Ellesmere district,' was married to Miss June Sollis, of Totteridge Hill, High Wycombe. J. F. Price was best man. E. L. practises as a veterinary surgeon. Many O.E's will hear with regret of the death of "Dr." Bate, father of two O.E's and for nearly fifty years "the Vet" at Ellesmere, and consequently known to everybody, including many successive generations of O.E's. T. Winfield of Aberdare was one of several O.E's who sent the Editor some wanted copies of the magazine. His last visit to Ellesmere was in 1921. Lt. Col. E. B. Holmes, O.B.E., M.C., is now living at Strensall. He was in Malaya before Pearl Harbour and did not return until some time after the war was over. Brian Culverhouse was demobilised from the Grenadier Guards last year; he had made a name for himself !IS the. man to organise any musical effort in Aldershot, so that it was no surprise to hear that he has made this work his profession. He is now in the Music and Artistes Department of the H.M.V. Co. at Hayes. His work is connected with Classical recorded music, and apart from this he represents his company as a talentspotter at London Concerts. Robin Hughes, demobilised last summer, has been teaching this year at Aberystwyth in Mr. Prosser-Evans' well-known preparatory school. He is enjoying this work greatly. Robin goes to Birmingham University to read for a degree in Mining Engineering. The Grand National had especial interest this year for O.E's, as the trainer George Owen, himself a famous rider to hounds, a point-to-point winner and expert jockey (he rode sixth in the National a few years ago) trained 'Russian Hero, this year's winner. He trains nearby, at Malpas. K. Heber has been playing regularly for Guy's Hospital R.F.C. His position is inside three-quarter . . L. M. B. Vickers is now Director of an important stationery firm. He served with the Airborne Division, reached the rank of Major and took part in the epic fight at Arnhem. He was present at Luneburg when the Armistice was signed at Montgomery's bidding. Graham Towers is being trained in the Hotel business. He starts training in Eastbourne this, spring. J. M. Jones - "Seven" - is now with the R.W.F. at Brecon. He intends to make the Army his career, and hopes to go to Sandhurst in the near future. Colin Gemmell, A. Sheppard, D. R. Donnisthorpe, "Nick" Evans and F. S. H. Dwight are some of the O.E's he will meet there. M. C. Cockin is now articled to a Birmingham firm of solicitors. He attends lectures at the University. D. C. Yardley, and, of course, the Baddeleys, are at Birmingham. A. R. W. Baddeley plays Squash for Lancashire, revelling in this game as in nearly all others. P. H. Gray is also at Birmingham University. John Carter, whose engagement to June Rogerson we recently announced, is still in London He sends news of B. Timmis, now in Germany, "Bottle" Edwards, not now going to Oxford but to the Colonial Service, and Mr. Stevenson, who is at Cranleigh, and Tony Roqerson; who lives near Carter. Pip Carter, R.MP., is expected home from the East shortly. T. A. Toote, M.L.A., Bahamas, writes to tell of a visit he has had from B. A. Manners serving as assistant purser on the M.V. Santander, the P.S.N. Co. vessel. He arranged for M'lnners to meet the de Gregorys. and we have since heard that Manners had "a fine time." Toote is to be in England this year. Roy MOTris was one of the many O.E's at the "2nd Friday Moot" in London during February. He is now in the Suez Canal Zone at H.Q., Middle East, for a 2t-year tour of duty. Malcolm Love has been .Ilranted by the Medical Research Council a studentship for research on visual nurpll! with a Ph.D. in view. He is at Liverpool p'niversity. When at Leeds with the N.U.S. arts festival, he met Michael Barton, who was singing with. the

94:

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN

CHRONICLE

Bristol Choir. Love has met the third Tate - in a Liverpool Bank - E. P. Wright, now training to be a master-baker. Others at Liverpool include C. Parker and H. M'IlO'I:h (Dental School). P. M: B. Pretty has now left. Love says that F. G. Johnson has finished most of his training at a hospital in Dublin. We congratulate A. J. A. Compton on his engagement to Miss Diana Fordyce Slocock, only daughter of the late Brigadier S. L. Slocock, M.C., and Mrs. Slocock, of Roehampton Close, S.W.15. J. Wallick has joined Dunlop and is on a rubber plantation in Johore - address: Sergamat Estatl!; Johore, Malaya Union. He was commissioned in the Devon Regiment, to which he was Signals officer, but was invalided home from Hong Kong. C. A. Sale writes enthusiastically of the Birmingham Dinner and of the excellent Work of A; G. Shepherd, the local secretary. He took the Rev. E. E. F. Walters to the dinner as his lfuest. Sale hopes to send his baby boy to Ellesmere within the next decade. "Bobby' is working with the family firm, H. B. Sale, Ltd., which produces moulds and tools - it is the well-known firm near Snow Hill station. Derek Sale manages their other company, the Ash Rubber Stamp Ct., also near Snow Hill. GeOffrey Sale is serving at present at Bamsgate with the R.A.F. The Revd. H. D. Tyson is a curate at the Church of the Holy Apostles at Leicester. His address is: 414. Narborough Road, Leicester. S. Chadwick. after working for a little in a Bank, has decided that such a sedentary life was not to his liking, so he has joined the Metropolitan Police. He has frequently met Graham Towers, W. Herd and hears often of "Tich" Evans. Roger Kingdon, after working in an exporting firm in London, is now working in the accountant's department of the Vacuum Oil Co. Congratulations to George Fairley and his wife, on the birth of freir sou, John David, on the 9th January. Flight Lieutenant Lloyd Jones is now in the department of the Advocate General R.A.F. T. St. L. Morris, who was married last year, is the Managing Director of an Engineering firm in the Midlands. R. Cooke (of Chirk) is now a captain in the Merchant Navy, Admiralty division. H. Whittle holds an important post with the Cunard White Star Line. Dr. Philp practises in Bilston. He has taken over the practice of Dr. Well, father of an Ellesmerian. The Rev. B. R. Hibbert's fame as a beekeeper (he was awarded a bronze medal in 1921) is recalled by the announcement in the "Uttoxeter Advertiser" of December 29 of his gift of books to the Staffordshire County Library. Among the 32 books are three interesting volumes, Langstroth's "The Honey Bee, 1870," Pettigrew's "Handy Book of Bees, 1870," and Cotton's "My Bee Book, 1841" (a scarce, valuable volume). It is interesting to note that Cotton was appointed chaplain to the Bishop of New Zealand in 1841 and took with him five or six hives of honey bees, which survived a sea journey of several months and varying temperatures. From these bees of Cotton's are devised those' honey bees which provide one of New Zealand's most valuable exports. Hibbert is now living at Ramsay Hall, Byron Road, Worthing. We congratulate K. J. Clarke and his wife on the birth of their son, Graham John, on 2nd December last. Clarke sees W. Sutton (in the R.A.F. at Sealand, ana T. Makin (now with B.A.O.R'>. The immense success of the Irish Rugger Tour has given pleasure to the many Irish O.E's, several of whom saw the school play. Amongst them was the Rev. G. J. A. L'Estrange of St. Martin's Church, Ballymacarrett. C. H. Scott is now a grandfather;. his daughter's child was born last August. Scott expects to be away in Italy this Whit. His son, Peter Scott is now working with him. Geoffrey Dickin~on was unfortunately prevented from going to Queen's, Belfast. so he has gone to Coleg Harlech for a year's course in Economics, Psychology and English Social History. He goes to Swansea University College next year, for a three-year course later. J. E. meUs is in the R.A.F. He goes into the Hotel business. Michael Cooper is in the R.A. at Gibraltar.

THE OLD ELLESMERIAN CHRONICLE

95

Kenneth Clayden returned from the Middle East in June - he is with the Middlesex Regiment. He left Haifa eleven days after the close of the Mandate; M. Ellerton was on the ship with the 3rd Hussars. Clayden was in the Middlesex Regiment team which beat the M.C.C. Colts. His Regiment is now at Chelsea Barracks, on public duties - the King's Guard at Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and the Bank of England piquet. He was in charge of the Palace Guard when Prince Charles was born and when he was christened. He was also in charge of one of the detachments of the Regiment lining the Mall at the State opening of Parliament. When playing Rugger for London District, he found Terry Thornton as an opposing wing-forward. Clayden met many O.E's at the Holyrood meeting, including Rathbone, Cockshoot, Heath, the two Carlisles, Appleyard, Courtney, JE'linek and Peter Lloyd. Ken Cleyden intends to play for the O.E's Cricket Eleven this year. We were pleased to hear of the birth recently of a little "Terry" Thornton. Paul Dean has been elected President of the Oxford University Conservative Club, Colonel .F. SpHsbury and family-including his stepson, who was a. Ellesmere-· landed in Tasmania in August. They first stayed with John Spilsbury at St. Mary's and then in October moved to their home, Fairholm, Medea Street, St. Helen's, a sea-side resort and beauty spot on the north-east of the island, and more than 20 miles from rail-head. J. W. Boldero has been on an Engineering Cadetship for the past two years and has passed a W.O.S.B. He is stationed at Farnborough. E. M.Arden hopes to go up to Durham University this year after completing his R.A.F. service. . G. R. Millican is now apprenticed to a Pharmacist. His two brothers are also pharmacists. Stuart K. S. Towers left the Army in December, and since has been learning market gardening. first at Ash, near Canterbury, later with Mounts, where he specialises in tomato culture. Hii:;address is - c/o Mrs. Best, 16, Roper Road, Canterbury, .

NOTE.-The O.E. Rugger match will be played on 1st October this year, instead of on the last Saturday of the term. Early application to play should be made to Mr. Bayly or Mr. Nankivell, at the College.

Prlnt£d

by :rhe Shrewsbury

Chronicle,

Ltd.