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THE GATEWAY Battle Abbey School Magazine

1957

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THE GATEWAY

Battle Abbey School Magazine

1957

"THE GATEWAY"

THE MAGAZINE COMMITTEE si i-111 I K - i - :

Susan Birch Wendy Hull Bridget Lock

Editor: Miss Lane

SCHOOL LIFE—A BEGINNING

How shall we feel about today when ii has become part of our past?

Two new and beautiful possessions have suggested this question to me-the scrolls which now hang under the west windows in the Abbott's Hall. One. in memory of Dr. Lane, recalls a life finished, work done and long years speni in the service of others and bears testimony to the affection of many for him. The other sets before us the fact that the first stage of the journey is complete and that the girls whose names are inscribed on it have started out on the next one. These are the contributors to a fund for the perpetual upkeep of the Organ. They have lefl school and they want those who come after to share ihe good things they have enjoyed. It also, therefore, speaks of affection.

Both scrolls are records of the past, but they are much more than this.

They remind us that Life is a continuous living, that the time will come when we loo shall look back on today and take stock of the way in which it was spent. If. when that future comes, we have any regrets, shall they be that today was not spent better or that its happy hours are over?

But let there not be loo many regrets of any kind, for every fresh day. throughout every stage of life, brings its own opportunities. Nevertheless, my hope for you all is that you may so live your school life that you may be able to look back on it with pleasure and affection, and thai you will have built here a solid foundation of contentment and won the ability to deal wisely with whatever life may bring.

"The pale leaf falls in pallor, but ihe green leaf turns to gold;

We that have found it good to be young shall find it good to be old."

HFKEN SHEEHAN-DARE.

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GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION EXAMINATION (CAMBRIDGE LOCALS)

The following girls passed: ADVANCED LEVEL

C. Dixon-Smiih V. Hughes A. Mackenzie D. Watkinson

ORDINARY LEVEL J. Anierv A. Mackenzie C. Barnetl J. McOnegal S. Birch J. Morris J. Blakstad C. Sharp J. Carr J. Shiplev J. Childs I. Thompson L. Campbell-Ciarralt R. Vestej C. Dixon-Smith S. Weslcoti P. Goodlaltc P. Whitehouse D. Halse S. Wood L. Hudson V. Hughes W. Him B. lock

THE ASSOCIATED BOARD OF MUSIC EXAMINATION RESISTS

1956—1957 PIANO PRACTICAL

Grade V A. Goddard Grade IV G. Forster Grade III D. Birch Grade II J. Thomas

T. Compton

THEORY OF MUSIC Total Marks 99 Grade V.

J. Brown 99 J. Clark 97 A. Goddard 97 J. Woodhouse 97 G. Forster 96 E. Sinclair 70

Grade IV. M. Heseltine 95 J. Wright 95 D. Birch 94 C. Tail 90

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«.ra«lr III. Julia Orme 95

<irad«- II. J. Benson 93 A. Atkinson-Clark 91 J. Barton 88

( . r :nl i - I . T. Bowley 99 T. Compton 92 M. Dups 91

CUPS AND AWARDS SUMMER TERM. 1956

Conduct Cup Work Cup Posture Cup Tennis Cup Sports Cup Shield Tidiness Picture Fnglish Essay Cup Art Prize Senior Doubles Tennis Cup

Senior Singles Tennis Cup Junior Doubles Tennis Cup

Junior Singles Tennis Cup

St. Mary's St. Mary's St. Martin's St. Mary's St. Mary's St. Mary's Form IVa V. Hughes C. Dixon-Smilh Denise Halse and

Susan Thomas Denise Halse Wendy Riches and

Susie Holt Wendv Riches

CHRISTMAS TERM 1956 Conduct Cup Work Cup Shield Lacrosse Cup Activities Cup Junior Scroll for Piano Piano Cup (Senior) Tidiness Picture ...

St. Mary's St. Marv's St. Mary's St. Mary's Form Vb Diana Birch Jill Woodhouse Form Vb

EASTER TERM. 1957 Conduct Cup Work Cup Shield Netball Cup Activities Cup Tidiness Picture

St. Mary's St. Patrick's St. Mary's St. Mary's Form Vb Form Va

HEADS. VICE-HEADS. BRONZES.

GAMES CAPTAINS. STARS CHRISTMAS TERM

Si. Mary'* Si . Mart in 's >i . Ethcldredas Si. Patrick*-. Headi S. Birch \V. Hull* S. Western- B. Lock* Vice:

EASTER TERM Head: S. Bitch \V Hull S. Wrstcott B. Lock Vice: 1. Th':i.:>.'!; ——

SUMMER TERM Head: S. Birch W. H u n S. Wcstcott B. Lock Vice: I. Thompson Rronzps: C. Sharp K. I lan i - 1 Clark A. (iuddard

II. Warning *Aciing

R. Noel-Clarke S. Thomas

Slars D. Barwrll P. Barker 1). Boyes A. Barbour Yb. D. Birch P. Con noil v I-. Peters Yb. G. Creen

J. Brown P. Hudson 1. VVoodhousc B. dc Hillei ( i . Forstrr Yb. E. Hue IK- I) Worl.v I. Orme

Yb. M. Hescltine A. Sparrow F.. Scott R. Holding Yb. C. Tail J. Watkins Yb. J. Nines

1 . . l l l l . -

Captains I. Thompson P Connolly 1. Clark A. Barbour

June 30th July 7th

July U t h

July 21st

Oct. 6th

Ott. 13th

Oct. 20th

Oct. 27th Nov. 3rd Nov. 10th

Nov. 17lh

Nov. 2 lili Dec. 1st

Dec. 8th

MATCHES FROM JUNE 3 0 . 1 9 5 6

Old Girls Day 1st VI (H) Won 8-1 Wadhurst College 2nd VI & IJ.I4 IX (H) 2nd VI Won 7-2

U.I4 won II1-5 Beehive Tournament & 2nd VI v.

Kent Colleee Scratched Lillesden 1st"VI (A) Lost 63-66

AUTUMN TERM 1956 Lillcsden 1st & U.I5 Xll's

Mickelfield 1st & U.I5 X l l s

Moira House 1st & 2nd XITs

(H) 1st Won 10-8 U.15 Lost IO^t

(H) 1st Lost 10-* U.I5 Lost 10-3

(A) 1st Lost 13-3 2nd Lost 8-3

Half-Term Hollington Park 1st & 2nd XIl (H) 1st Won 7-3.

2nd Won 4-2 St. Stephen's College 1st & 2nd XII (H) 1st Lost 12-7

2nd Won 9-4 Hallowe'en

Bedeeburv Park I st & U. 15 X11 ... (H) 1 st Won 6-2 U.15 Won 10-4

(A) 1st Won 6-2

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Jan. I9lh Jan. 26th Feb. 2nd Feb. 9lh

Feb. 16tb Feb. 23rd Mar. 2nd Mar. 9th

EASTER TERM 1957

St. Mary's Baldslow 1st & U.15 VII (H) Convent of the Sacred Heart 1st.

2nd. U.14 VIls

Ancasler House 1st XII Warren School 1st XII Hollineton Park B XII

Mar. 12th Buckswood Grange U.12 VII Mar. 16th Wadhurst College 1st & 2nd VI Ls ..

Mar. 23rd St. Stephen's College I st & 2nd XIPs

Scratched

(H) 1st Lost 18-9 (A) 1st Lost 18-9

2nd Lost 21-7 U.14 Lost 20-2

(A) Scratched (H) 1st Drew 6-6 (A) Scratched (A) U.12 Lost 28-8 (H) 1st Won 22-16

2nd Won 16 10 (A) Lost 10-1

2nd Lost 13 5

April 27th May Ilh

May 11th Mav i Hi!i

May 25tfa June 1st

June 8th June 13th June 22nd

June 29lh July 6th Julv 13th

Julv 20th

SUMMER TERM 1957

Wadhurst College 1st & 2nd VI ..

Winceby House 1st VI Aberdare Cup—Bexhill Grammar &

Wadhurst College

Sussex Girls Schools U.15 VI ... B.A. 2nd v. Kent College 1st VI ... B.A. U.14 v. Kent College U.15 VI I illesden 1st VI&U.15 VI

Half-Term 1st IV St. Marv's Baldslow B. & C. VI v. Benenden 3rd & 4th VI Old Girls

Beehive Tournament 1st VI v. Con­vent of the Sacred Heart U.15 & U.14 VFs

Ancasler House 1st & 2nd VTs ...

(H) 1st Won 8-1 2nd Won 7-2

(H) I st VI Won 9 fl

(H)

(H)

(H) (A) | (A)\ (H)

(A) (A) (H)

(A) (H)

1st VI v. Bexhill Grammar Lost 2-1 1st VI v. Wadhurst Won 3-0 Walkover Battle Abbev Lost 2nd 6 3. U.14 6-3 Battle Abbcv Won 1st 9-0. U.15 9-0

Match not played at time of going to press

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1st, 2nd and 11.15 LACROSSE TEAMS WINTER TERM. 1956

1st XII 2nd XII Judith Brown G. Catriona Tait Jill Wood house P. Satfrey Ox ley Suzanne Westcott C.P. Wendy Riches Jayne Orme 3M Priscilla Boot Katharine Harris L.D. Dorothy Worley Gillian Forster R.D. Bridget Lock Adrian Barbour c. Jane Wright lame Thompson R.A. Diana Birch Judith Clark L.A. Carole McOnegal Penny Connolly 3H. Elizabeth Riches Susan Birch (capt. 1 2H. Helene Warning (capt.) Susan Thomas 1 H. Anne Sparrow

LACROSSE COLOURS AWARDED WINTER TERM 19 Gillian Forster Judith Brown Susan Birch • larne Thompson

Under IS LACROSSE TEAM G. Catriona Tail P. Satfrey Ox ley C.P. Priscilla Boot 3M. Carol Barlev L.D. Wendy Riches R.D. Jane Wriuht C. Susy Holt L.A. Carole McOnegal R.A. Diana Birch ?H. Helene Warning (capt.) 2H. Anne Sparrow 1 H. Gay Campbell

TENNIS COLOURS AWARDED SUMMER TERM, 1936 Denise Halse Susan Thomas Susan Birch Gillian Forster

NETBALL TEAMS NETBALL TEAMS SPRUNG TERM 1937

1st VII 2nd VII Susan Birch (capt). G.S. Susan Thomas (c larne Thompson A. Saffrey Oxley Judith Brown C.A. Diana Birch Penny Connolly C. Katharine Harris Adrian Barbour C D . Jane Wright Gillian Forster D. Catriona Tait Judith Clark G.D. Helene Warning

(capt.)

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Under 15 M I Robina Blakelock G.S. Joanna Barton Saffrey Ox ley A. Robina Blakelock (capl.) Diana Birch C.A. Prudence Howard lane Wriaht C. .lane Browning Priscilla Bool C D . Elizabeth Rosten Carole McOnegal D. Teresa Vintras * Hilary Keating G.D. Julia Orme

SPRING TERM. 1957 1st and 2nd LACROSSE TEAMS

1st XII 2nd XII J udy Brown O. Catriona Tail Jill Woodhouse P. Satfrey Ox ley Suzanne Weslcoii C.P. Wendy Riches Jayne Orme 3M. Priscilla Boot Katharine Harris L.D. Bridget Lock Gillian Forster R.D. Dorothy Worley Adrian Barbour C. Jane Wright Judy Clark LA. Diana Birch larne Thompson R.A. Carole McOnegal Penny Connolly 3H. Jo Barton Susan Birch (capl.) 2H. Helene Warning (capl.) Susan Thomas 1 H. Anne Sparrow

SPRING TERM. 1957 COLOIKS

LACROSSE NETBALL Jill Woodhouse Susan Birch

Judith Brown larne Thompson

1st and 2nd TENNIS VI, SUMMER TERM. 1957 1st VI 2nd VI

1st Couple 1st Couple Susan Thomas (capt.) Jayne Orme Gillian Forster Adrian Barbour (capt.)

2nd Couple 2nd Couple Susan Birch Wendy Riches larne Thompson Jane Wright

3rd Couple 3rd Couple Judv Brown Helene Warning Judy Clark Priscilla Boot

Under 15 VI 1st Couple 2nd Couple

Wendy Riches (capt.) Robina Blakelock Jane Wright Priscilla Boot

3rd Couple Susv Holt Gav Field

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Under 14 VI 2 n d < ■ HI| l i t -

P. Bathe J. Barton

3rd Couple J. Thomas S. Vines

A YEAR OF ART Throughout the year the usual high standard of art and craft work has

been maintained. The great variety of pictures in the dining room has given much enjoyment to the whole school, and I feel sure that being able lo study and compare these pictures has done much to cultivate our artistic appreciation. The addition of a very fine carving bench is a great help to the Studio.

Last year Miss Jacoby very kindly presented a picture to the student who did the best art work of the year. The winner of the prize was Cherry Dixon-Smith. who chose a picture by Doyle John called "Down to the Sea." Diana Watkinson. Linda Hudson. Jill Woodhouse and Wendy Hutt were highly commended.

We shall, of course, have the usual exhibition of arts and crafts on Parents' Day this term, and it is lucky that we shall still have here the craft-work done by the girls taking General School Certificate examination as the Cambridge Syndicate do not require the work until later on.

Unfortunately the Seniors have had no time to do any outdoor sketching owing to the continual work on the syllabus, but many members of the Junior classes have worked in the grounds. There is an increase in the number of figure drawings done in the Senior classes thanks being due to Miss Seymour for her patient tuition and to the many girls who have "modelled" for us.

There is. of course, no doubt that the good results achieved in this sphere are due lo the skilled guidance of our Art Mistresses. Miss Seymour and Miss Porter.

WENDY Hurr . Form VI.

MUSICAL ACTIVITIES 1956—57 Form VI and Va have been very fortunate this year in being allowed to

go to so many concerts, all of which have been exceptionally enjoyable. Among the many given at the White Rock Pavilion. Hastings, was one

by the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by George Hurst. The programme was devoted to Beethoven, and Ronald Smith, the soloist, played Beethoven's "Piano Concerto No. 5." Later, this orchestra, under the direction of Norman del Mar. who caused a sensation later in the year by conducting "rock 'n' roll" at the Festival Hall, played a programme including the lovely Overture. "Fingal's Cave" by Mendelssohn and Beryl Kimber played Tschaikovsky's "Violin Concerto."

A piano recital was given by Joseph Weingarten. His programme included Chopin's "Funeral March", and although there was only a moderately sized audience, it was a very appreciative one. and thoroughly enjoyed the soloist's superb playing.

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1s t < i H I | > l i -

R. Blakelock J. Browning (capl.)

The London Philharmonic Orchestra have paid many visits to this Pavilion. At the first concert the orchestra was conducted by that famous musical personality Anatole Fislourlari and the very popular programme included a selection from Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess" and Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherezade." Dennis Noble was the very popular baritone soloist and his enunciation of the famous palter song from Rossini's "The Barber of Seville" was perfect. He showed his versatility by appearing as the Chinese Emperor in the pantomime "Aladdin" at Coventry the following holidays. In the Spring Term many of the Juniors heard Tschaikovsky's "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" and Haydn's "Oxford Symphony" played by this orchestra under the direction of Eric Bravington. The soloist was Iris Loveridge.

It was this orchestra that gave the concerts of the Hastings International Music Festival this term. The first concert visited was that of the American and English night, the conductor being Massimo Frcccia. The programme was very varied and included William Walton's "Facade" and a "Jama;can Rumba" by Benjamin Britten. The soloist was Petro Scarpini. who played Gershwin's Piano Concerto. The Mayor of Hastings, who attended all the concerts, accom­panied the American Ambassador, so the American anthem was played and their flag flown from the building.

Perhaps the most interesting of all nights was the Russian Night, the following evening, when Mr. Malik, the Russian ambassador, was present. and the "Hammer and Sickle" fluttered in the breeze outside, while inside everyone stood to attention during the Russian anthem. The hall was filled to capacity and the audience much appreciated the well-chosen programme which included the Overture "Prince Igor" by Borodin, and Rachmaninoff's Third Piano Concerto which was played by Colin Horsley. The conductor was Anatole Fislourlari. who is himself of Russian birth. During the interval some licople went upstairs to try and catch a glimpse of our friend Mr. Malik, but they were not very successful!

April Cantelo and William Dickie were the soloists at the Italian Night. and they sung a charming little operetta called "Suzanna's Secret." which was sung in English, and very amusine. This was followed by the Overture and ballet music from "William Tell" by Rossini, and the Prelude from "La I raviata" by Verdi, both being very popular. The programme ended with >ome of the wonderful music from "La Boutique Fantasque" by Rossini. The orchestra was under the direction of a brilliant young conductor. Alexander Gibson, who has only recently made a name for hmself. We were all very thrilled when he spoke to us. and he seemed a very charming, unaffected young man. We also spoke to the soloists, who were very pleasant. As I was staying that night in Hastings I remained behind and spoke to the Italian ambassador. Signor Zoppi. and an Italian Count. When they finally left the building with much bowing and handshakes, I was quite satisfied with my outing.

Lastly. Lance Dossor gave a recital at the Pavilion, and the programme which was beautifully played included Brahms' "Variations on a Theme of Paganini" and "Scenes of Childhood" by Schumann.

A visit was made to Tunbridge Wells to a Chopin recital given by Irene Scharrer in aid of the Distressed Gentlefolk's Association, and although some found the B Minor Sonata rather long, the remainder of the programme was greatly enjoyed.

Some people also heard Leo Halle, a young pianist, play an ambitious programme including Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsody" and Chopin's "Funeral

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March" al the De La Warr Pavilion. Bexhill. in aid of the Hungarian Refugee Fund.

Visits have also been made to Battle Church to a recital of hymns and anthems given by the choir and soloists in aid of the Restoration Fund, and to a performance of Handel's "Messiah" given by the Choral Society.

Our own musical activities should not be forgotten. Mr. Banmer gave us a recital in the Abbot's Hall and after playing Chopin's "Butterfly" and •Rhapsody No. I I " by Liszt at our request, he gave us some lesser known

works and some original compositions of his own. Mr. Dennis Dance came to judge the piano playing competition. The

Senior piece--Beethoven's "Sonata No. 25. Op. 79". was difficult and caused some apprehension, but Jill Woodhouse managed to win the Cup for the second time. Judy Clark being the runner-up. Diana Bitch won ihe Junior Scroll, and Calriona Tait came second. Mr. Dance emphasised the importance of scales and sight-reading, which he said were poor on the whole.

The Carol Service was enjoyed by everyone, the choir singing solos and the School joining in the popular carols. Towards the end of leini we were also visited by the Fellowship of St George Carol Singers, who £3ve us a carol recital, and the Bexhill Handbell Ringers, who played us hymns and carols and put up with our own efforts to ring the bells.

The School Concert, given for parents, went off smoothly at the end of the Spring Term. Besides the enjoyable p;ano solos. Anne Atkinson-Clark played some tunes on her recorder, and the elocution pupils recited some poems. Each singing class performed and the Junior Class sang a charming song by Mr. Le Fleming, the Conductor. The concert ended with the whole School accompanied by Miss Tetley on the organ and supported by the choir in the gallery singing "Jerusalem", followed by the National Anthem. Indeed we arc grateful to Miss Tetley. Mr. Banmer and Mr. Le Fleming for all the trouble they took over it.

Although there may be many of us who enjoy "rock 'n' roll" there are just as many, if not more, who still appreciate the old classical music, and I am sure in the generations to come, that no-one will be able to write such enjoyable and good music as was written by the famous composers—Chopin. Liszt. Rossini, etc.

It is only left for me to thank the principals and Miss Telley for making it possible for us to attend so many concerts, and I hope that the White Rock Pavilion will continue to arrange such enjovable programmes.

B. Lrx K, FOOT VI.

ACTIVITIES CUP CHRISTMAS TERM, 1956

As usual we supplied Christmas presents for our Orphanage. This time each form was allotted a number of orphans to make presents for and Vb won the cup as their gifts were the best throughout and arranged.

EASTER TERM, 1957 FORM IV.B's PLAY

"Activities" in the Easter Term were form plays as usual. "The Princess and the Woodcutter." a fairv tale bv A. A. Milne, was performed bv IV.B.. III.A and 1MB.

12

There was quite an argument in IV.B. over who was hi take the parts. but at last this was decided.

Two weeks before the play was to take place we found we slill hadn't done much to the costumes, and everyone worked very hard to finish them in time.

At last the day came, everyone was hurrying to and fro collecting branches of laurel and bamboo for the forest scene.

The play concerns a princess who falls in love with a poor young man The princess has many suitors, so the king arranges a competition to see which one has the kindest heart. Of course, the woodcutter wins, and all ends happily. The characters won the sympathy of the audience, who enjoyed the performance.

LYNN THOMAS. Form IV.B.

FORM V.B's PLAY Once again the form plays were upon us. This year V.B. and IV.A.

presented the "Eye of the Beholder." by Cyril Grainger. We in V.B. owe the success of our costumes to Anja Wright, who had a very difficult task, the play being set in the 14th century.

The "props" were a problem as we had to produce, among other things. a false nose. Two hours were spent in moulding papier mache on Diana Birch's nose.

Wendy Riches, who played the main part, could be called a hero in her own right. The day before the play she had her head cut during a lacrosse match, and was feeling very groggy, though she gave an excellent performance

Fortunately, on the day the whole play went off with a "bang", and much to our surprise we were awarded the Activities Cup.

GAY CAMPBBIX and M. Hi si iTINF. Form V.B.

V.A's. VISIT T O CANTERBURY As is customary after the Cambridge examinations V.A. paid a visit to

Canterbury. It was a glorious day and we were lucky in being allowed to wear our own summer dresses.

The journey in the coach was very pleasant, and we stopped in Rye for a break. Some of us went and looked at the interesting clock on the church tower, and wandered in and out of old antique and book shops. Soon we were on our way again and arrived in Canterbury in time for lunch.

Later we were shown round the Cathedral by Miss Babbington, of the Iriends of Canterbury Cathedral, who told us some interesting stories, and .\c also saw the new stained-glass window to commemorate the coronation of our Queen. A few of us including Miss Tetley and Miss Macleod. who accompanied us. stayed for Evensong, while the others wandered around Canterbury. The singing was beautiful, and the little choirboys all looked very angelic, although I doubt if they were!

After the service we wandered in and out of the shops, until it was time to wend our way home. We all arrived back at the coach safely, after a most satisfactory outing.

B. LOCK. Form VI.

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THE RIVALS After some debate amongst members of the Dramatic Society it was

decided that the School Play should be "The Rivals." by Sheridan. The Cast was as follows:

Anthony Absolute P. Hudson Jack Absolute P. Connolly Mr. Faulkland J. Orme Sir Lucius OTrieger A. Barbour Bob Acres C. Tail Mr. Malaprop H. Warning Lydia Languish W. Hull Julia J. Brown Lucv C. Sharp Fae D. Birch David C. Ludd The Old Coachman A. Goddard Mrs. Malaprop's Maid S. Cleveland Errand boy G. Oxlcy

Miss Gilford asked me if I would help her to produce it. Luckily I had seen the play performed in London only a few months previously.

Rehearsals began! Miss Gifford put a somewhat nervous cast at ease by her mimicking of the characters, much to the amusement and delight of ail present.

I could tell all about the good performances of the cast, but I think that all who saw it felt that each individual not only suited but really lived the person they were playing.

Although Elizabeth Riches has now left, her ability to put pieces of material together and produce a costume that looked like something out of a pantomime should not be forgotten.

Miss Seymour, with help from some of the Senior girls, painted the canvas backcloth: but it was not a smooth passage by any means. The canvas was too short and not wide enough: one of the workmen who had organised the changing of the canvases became ill. and on top of all that, a few days before '.he play was to be performed "Lydia" retired languishly to the San. with a sore throat.

But she recovered in time for the performance and on the day everything went off splendidly.

IARNH THOMPSON. Form VI.

V.A. HALLOWF/EN PARTY Our first thought on moving up into V.A. was that it was our turn to give

the Hallowe'en Party. We had thought about it vaguely before, but soon realised that we had better get down to it seriously.

First we had to think of subjects for the fancy dresses and. after some discussion, chose Fruit. Vegetables and Show Titles.

We decided to decorate the Library in a Christmas style: for this we bought large amounts of cotton wool and sirung lumps of it on cotton thread to imitate falling snow. The fun was in keeping it a secret from the rest of the School when storing the "snow" in the acting cupboard.

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We were extremely lucky in having Judy Brown amongst us. for her father very generously provided us with numerous boxes of blancmange. instant puddings, etc.. and so helped with the food. Uncle Jack was also most kind, and we were very thankful for his help. The form itself provided an ice cream stall in the Library.

Eventually Saturday. November 24th. arrived. We began decorating the library on Friday night to the strains of popular music on the gramophone. and managed to hang most of the "snow." also real holly. We had paper chains in the Abbot's Hall, and a yule log in the lireplace. In the Library we had a Christmas Tree with the prizes heaped round it. and a tableau in one bay window of Joseph and Mary and the infani Christ on Christmas morning.

I am sure most of us felt our hard work was rewarded when we saw the faces of the girls as they poured into the Library to begin the games and dancing.

We had supper in the Abbot's Hall, and then gave an entertainment depicting Cinderella and the Seven Ugly Sisters.

Eventually, after prize giving and more games in the Library, the School went to the dormitories while we cleared up. However, with all hands helping it wasn't long before we. loo. tumbled into bed. tired and happy, hoping that ihe School had enjoyed itself as much as we had.

ADRIAN BARROUR, V.A.

GUIDES Guiding in the Summer Term is a very pleasant activity. We have most

of our meetings out-of-doors, when it is fine. We begin (hem with general inspection and the patrols compete against one another. The patrols are called Swallow. Bluetil and Kingfisher.

The object of Guiding is to pass tests and to have fun. You must be very keen on being a guide to become a good one.

When we have meetings out-of-doors we make fires, try to pass some tests, such as tracking signs, and we play games. Sometimes when the weather is good we have "Taps" outside. (Taps is our Guide Hymn which we sing at the end of every meeting.)

Indoors we work for tests and badges that don't need much walking, such as tying up a parcel, taking thrift badges, hostess badges and others. Taking tests and badges is great fun but hard work is needed as well.

The Guide Uniform is very smart and l<x>ks even smarter when you wear on yout sleeve the badges you have won. You should always have in your pockets, pencil and paper, needle and cotton, button and material, also, of course a penknife. Our ties are made like a sling for use in any emergency.

Last term we had an Annual General Meeting at the Guide Hut. to which the 2nd Battle Guides (that's us) went. Each company gave an entertainment and we sang "Jerusalem." At the end of the meeting we all had refreshments. By the time we had finished it was quite late.

We sometimes have Bazaars to raise funds for every company. This year we had one called the May Fair in Battle. It was held at the Guide Hut. which is in Mount Street. Our Company had an ice-cream stall and from it we raised £2 8s. 4d. Later on in the year we are going to have a few more meetings.

PHUIPPA LANCASTER, Form iv.B.

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ENGLAND'S GKEEN AND PLEASANT LAND England has icmained "green and pleasant" despite "the dark salanic

mills" of industrialisation, for many reasons. The two main ones are that some of the most beautiful corners of the country are not suitable for develop­ment and that people have realised the benefits of preserving open spaces near large cities for their inhabitants. Many especially attractive parts of the country have been bought by the National Trust if they cannot be kept up well by private owners, thus their beauty is preserved and naturalists can study the animal and plant life in their natural surroundings.

Cornwall, which is far from the large industrial areas, is rugged and yet not bleak like its counterpart. Caithness. At Land's End the cliffs are high and sheer but even though they fall so abruptly into the sea and are continually swept by strong winds, on their tops they are clothed in fresh green grass. so unlike the barren loneliness of John O'Groats.

Swinburne's "green smooth-swelling unending Downs" of Sussex are a pleasant change from the flatness of Essex and Cambridgeshire, and yet these two counties have their own beauty too. Essex has Epping Forest with its ten square miles of hornbeams, oak and beech, which make it a pleasing home for the deer. Cambridgeshire has peaceful flat-lands watered by the winding river Cam where, as Rupert Brooke did. you may lie

"Day long and watch the Cambridge sky. And. flower-lulled in sleeping grass. Hear the cool lapse of hours pass."

In the north are the Pennines. wilder than the Mendips of the south-west. with deep gorges and turbulent streams disappearing and re-appearing on the hillsides. To the west of these hills is the Lake District with its beautiful long lakes and famous spring flowers, cspecialy its hosts of "golden daffodils" seen by Wordsworth.

"Beside the lake, beneath the trees. fluttering and dancing in the breeze."

So even though the country is perhaps not so "green and pleasant" as several hundred years ago. because of its climate, lack of high mountains, and its peoples' patriotism. England has largely remained beautiful and peaceful.

E. Scorr. V.A.

T H E DAVIS CUP Luckily Thursday. May 16th. was quite a bright day. though a bit windy

when we set out to catch the bus from Battle into Hastings for the 1st round of the Davis Cup. which was England versus New Zealand.

The bus we went on was a very slow one. but we eventually arrived in Hastings. We got off and walked to the station which was quite near and caught the train. It took about an hour to reach Eastbourne where the tennis was being held.

When we arrived we saw a crowd around one of the courts outside the stands, so decided to go and investigate. We found it was Davies of England practising with one of the English coaches before his match against Robson of New Zealand. Robson came and practised a few minutes later.

When they had finished some of us succeeded in taking their photos.

Their mulch was a very exciting one and so long that after three scls there was a short interval. They then carried on the game again and after a very hard tight Davies won. though not very easily. There was quite a wind and that did not help the play much.

After the interval Wilson of England played against Gerrard of New Zealand. This match was nol nearly as long as ihe first, as Wilson won the first three sets and so won the match.

By then it was nearly 6 o'clock and as that was all for ihe day. we left. When we got back to school we all agreed it had been a very enjoyable day and were thankful we had had the chance to go.

JIU.IA ORMI•'. IV.A.

MARGARET MORRIS MOVEMENT Once a week we enter ihe Library with one joyous thought in our minds:

"Margaret Morris Movement." generally known as "M.M.M." for short. This "Movement" is very good for ihe muscles and although we all

grumble at it. 1 think we all enjoy it. Miss Wallers, our teacher, has actually met Margaret Morris, who lives

in Glasgow. We begin by doing running and charging, which is a great favourite.

We then go on to do the raising exercises and various other steps. All these first exercises are done in a circle, but as soon as they have ended we go inio lines with special people chosen for the whole term. We then begin by doing swineing relaxalion and an exercise we all call the windmill, also head and breathing exercises, which are all ones we enjoy.

The windmill consists of swinging the amis first at ankle height, ihcn knee height, then at shoulder height, and last of all at the very lop. and coming down in exactly the same actions. All these exercises are performed to the gramophone. When we are learning a new step from scratch we then do it to the tambourine, which Miss Walters has to hit hard to make herself heard.

In ihe summmcr you will see a crowd of girls running out. in iheir coifee-coloured blouses and brown shorts, for when it is fine we do M.M.M. out-of-doors.

We all lhank Miss Walters for a most enjovable lesson. T. COMPTON. Ill A

SITOJECT S E T FOR T H E INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS' ENGLISH COMPETITION

I READ IN THE PAPER 1 happened 10 be glancing through my paper one day when 1 came

across an article concerning a certain Dr. Jenkyns. I read the article and thought no more about it. When I saw a photo and an article about a Mr. Jenkyns in the evening paper. I did not even connect them. Jenkyns being quite an ordinary name. But when I saw headlines in the papers the next morning. I began to sit up and take interest.

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Mr. Jcnkyns. it seemed, was a well-to-do. retired gentleman of middle age. He had been an active member of the "Rag Trade" for many years.

until his retirement, and had had a lot of money invested in shares. Now. at the age of 50. he had made a great deal of money with his shares, and he wished to travel abroad and to write a book. He also, and this is what interested me. wanted a reliable secretary, with good references, pleasant appearance and cultured background, to accompany him.

I don"t know what made nic apply for the job—I was happily settled as a secretary to the manager of a wholesale shoe firm, and I knew that thousands of other girls would apply also- but 1 wrote: and I was very much surprised to hear, a few days later, that if it was convenient. H. Augustus Jenkyns. Esq.. would like an interview with me on the following Tuesday at 3.30 p.m.

I decided to take the opportunity and explained the matter to my boss. He was very understanding, and said that if I got the job. he would let me leave when I wished.

I arrived at the appointed place ten minutes early, my knees knocking and my hands moist—I was. quite frankly, terrified!

I was shown into a quiet, simply-furnished office, by someone whom I accurately took to be his daughter. Presently I was to meet the kindest of men I have ever met in my life.

H. Augustus Jenkyns strode into the room, clasped my hand and gave me a warm smile of approval.

"Sit down, my dear." he said in a deep, but pleasantly modulated voice.

He was tall and well built, but by no means large. His greying hair was beginning to recede, and was snowy at the temples. His hands were the next things I noticed, and they were beautifully kept, with long, slender finger'; and well-shapen. spotless nails. His whole appearance was immaculate, from his neat, exquisite blue silk te. to his wcll-shined shoes.

I took to him instantly, and knew, after talking to him for a few minutes. that I really wanted to work for this perfect example of a well-educated, well-groomed Englishman.

His advertisement was the turning point in my life. I got the job. and spent the next few weeks alternately buying clothes suited to a life in the Caribbean, and visiting his delightful family at their country home in Berkshire. His whole family was to go with him. and towards the end of May the four of us boarded a ship that was to take us to Cuba, where we were to spend two months. From there were were going to Jamaica, where we would stay until Gus. as I had affectionately begun to call my new employer, had finished his book.

I don't think that I shall ever be able to tell you what happened in those few years I spent in the Caribbean. They were the most interesting ones of my life, and living out there has certainly helped to broaden my outlook on life, and this was all due to one small article "I read in the paper." (This was marked "A.") GLORIA GRI FN. V.B,

Hi

AN END-OF-TERM EXCURSION — BODIAM CASTLE \ N END-OF-TERM EXCURSION —

BODIAM CASTLE At the end of the Summer Term all the girls who were due lo go home

by the school train on the Tuesday went to various places of interest on the Monday. About twenty of us signed lo go to Bodiam Castle. We covered ihe 25 miles by coach, accompanied by Miss Guinand.

The castle, surrounded by a formidably deep ntoat. stands in magnificent park land. When we arrived the guide showed us to the top of the only tower still left standing after the wars of the Middle Ages. From there we had a pleasant view of the surrounding woodland. Descending the tower, we were taken around other parts of the ruins, including the dungeons, and we saw some of the masive fireplaces, also the well which was at the base of a partially ruined tower.

On leaving this part wc made our way towards the museum in which various treasures of the castle are still maintained.

We returned to Battle, having used all our films taking photographs of the castle and of each other and having enjoyed ourselves to the full.

JACQUELINE BOX and JOANNA BFNSON. Form IV.A.

IV. Vs. VISIT TO PENSHITRST PLACE Last Summer Term Form IV.A. was taken lo see Penshurst Place. Fortunately the day dawned line and sunny. We set off in the coach at

2.30 taking with us a picnic tea. Accompanying us were Miss Guinand and the Vltli Form.

The journey was pleasant with no technical hitches! In about an hour we arrived outside the gates, from v. hich there was a good view of the house.

We climbed out of the coach and walked through the park, past the sheep up to the house which is the shape of an irregular "H." On entering there were tables with postcards and souvenirs on sale. Many of us brought some and then our tour of Penshurst Place began. A few of us took some photos which were quite successful.

First of all we went into the Baron's Hall which was furnished as it had been in the 15th century. We then visited the kitchen, buttery and pantry. After seeing these, we went on into the Tapestry Room, containing pictures. hangings and furniture of the 17th and 18th century. Then we saw the Long Gallery. Queen Elizabeth's Room and Lady Sunderland's lodgings, also the Armoury.

Outside we bought some flowers grown in the garden there. A few minutes later we were climbing back into the coach to start on

our journey homewards. Our arrival at Battle at about 6.30 p.m. was the end of a pleasant outing.

DIANA BIROI and JAOQUBUNE CABU-AtrxANDFR. Form V.B.

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AN AMERICAN SCHOOL In America children usually go to a Grammar School from the age of

live or six to the age of eleven or twelve. After Grammar School they to go Junior High School until the age of 15: then on to High School until they are 17 or 18. After that they either leave school or go on to a College or University.

I am going to tell you what a Junior High School is like since I know more about it than about the others.

The Junior High 1 went to was very modern. I was one of the 1.400 pupils who enrolled the term it opened.

We go to our Homerooms at 8.30 a.m., the time at which the School day begins. A Homeroom is something like a Formroom. but only one fourth of the form are in it. We have this same homeroom with the same people throughout our enrolment at the school. Homeroom meetings last about 20 minutes, in that time any announcements, such as dances, charity drives. and any special school happenings, come to us from the Principal's office by the public address system which is in our room. In the morning, before anything else begins, the National Anthem is played and everyone has to stand to attention as the flag is being raised.

After homeroom meetings, lessons start. We go to a different classroom and teacher for every subject. We do not go, as a Form, but have lessons divided up so that a certain number of people go to maths first lesson, another number second lesson, and so on. Some of the biggest classes have 54 people in them. We may take on jobs in the offices, cafeterias, and the stationary shop so that we can learn how to do that sort of thing. We also may learn typing, dress-making, cooking and advanced art and craft. There are special classes for the boys, such as metal shop, wood shop and electrical shop. There is not a very great stress on languages. We do not have to take any at all if we do not wish to. We usually have three or four lessons in the morning. This depends on whether lunch is at 11.30 or 12.15. The whole school cannot have lunch at the same time since there is not enough room.

For lunch we either bring a snack lunch or buy food at the cafeteria. About ten limes a term we have dances during our lunch-time. Once a term. according to the season, we have a ball game between the two highest grades.

After lunch we again have three or four lessons until school ends at 2.30. In a big school such as this we just know the names of our own grade.

We can never know everyone in our school as you do over here. G. FIELD. Form IV.A.

FROM ONE SCHOOL TO ANOTHER I think that most French girls consider the word "Pension" (boarding-

school) one of the most unpleasant ones in the French vocabulary. It makes you think of long, cold and dark dormitories with about 30 beds each; of meals in silence listening to a chapter of the Bible, read in a quick and monotonous voice by a prefect, who evidently lacks interest because she is hungry and wants her lunch.

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Judging from my experience, French teachers appear to have two favourite hobbies- -the making of useless rules and the punishment for breaking these. They work out the latter with great skill, so that sometimes you would find yourself faced with two punishments for your one offence.

French food, I think, has got a good reputation. French school food tries not to gel a too bad reputation. I suppose that if you imagine you are a dog or some sort of farm animal, it seems quite decent, but for a human being it is another matter. I cannot imagine the thoughts of a Battle Abbey girl having rice pudding on Sundavs and nothing the rest of the week! At the beginning of each term the French Headmistress gives you a long speech (40 minutes) in which for some reason connected with State economv she proves to us. without any possibility for us to discuss it. the needlessness of chocolate, sweets and other sugary things.

There are several subjects for argument between English and French people. One is Napoleon, so popular in France that every single museum claims to have his famous hat. (I think the total comes to about 2.000 hats quite a good collection. . . )

A French girl doesn't like to be asked about the government of her country, for you are never sure if it has already changed or is going to change. I also found out that it is better to avoid anv witty remarks about the last Fondon dockers' strike, as you might read in the papers the next morning that all French trains have stopped because the railwaymen have decided to go on strike.

As most of the French boardine schools are convents, there are hardl> any games played: the nuns don't like to show off on a netball court or a lacrosse field. Lacrosse seems to me a very tricky game: at one and the same lime vou have got to try to get hold of the ball, avoid if possible the other g;rls" heads and defend yourself.

But although I am very fond of English cakes, puddings and the School loo. I will be glad to be home again.

B. i»i Hn 11 KIN. V.A.

MY IMPRESSIONS OF AN ENGLISH SCHOOL

Before entering this English school my impression was that of a verv orderly place, governed and ruled over by an extremely strict set of staff. Dormitories were, to me. large halls with rows and rows of beds, surrounding each of which were curtains. A washstand slo<xl in one corner, one large window and a door. One was expected to wake up at an unearthly hour in the morning.

I didn't expect to hear the girls speak English as fast as they do. I found it quite difficult to understand them at first.

On walking into the form-room for the first time. I thought no one would take the least notice of me. or "perhaps." I thought, "they'll giggle behind my back." But I was so overwhelmed when they all rushed up to help me that I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. But that didn't quite put an end to my fears. I lived in constant dread of being leased.

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I got lost a few times but. when I asked any passing girl. I always found her willing not merely to give me directions but to show me around.

In all respects, the impressions I've had from this School are very good. And if I could judge all English Schools by this one. 1 must say that all this present generation will grow up into extremely intelligent, good, honest and useful citizens.

Dl I N,\ J l HANGFR. V . B .

A VISIT T O STRA1 FORD-IPON-AVON In the Easter holidays we were fortunate enough to be able to pay a visit

to the ancient home of Shakespeare in the heart of the C'otswolds—Stratford-on-Avon. After travelling through the beautiful countryside surrounding the town, we arrived at our destination eager to visit the places of interest, which are now maintained in memory of the famous dramatist.

Our first port of call was the house in which Shakespeare was born, and where he spent his early years. It is a half-timbered building of the early 16th century, incorporating portions of earlier dale. In Shakespeare's time it consisted of two separate houses: the one being the Shakespeare family's home where William was born in 1564. and the other a shop or warehouse adjoining, used by John Shakespeare, the poet's father, in connection with his trade as a glover.

Though it hs suffered some changes and necessary restoration the birthplace property bears substantially the same features as in the earliest surviving representation of it. It was purchased as a national memorial lo the poet in 1847 and is administered by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trustees. Part of the building is furnished and part accommodates a unique collection of books, manuscripts, pictures and objects illustrative of the life, times and works of the poet.

Of all the rooms in the Shakespeare family home, the birthroom on the first floor, where the poet was born, is the most fascinaling. It is of good proportions with well-preserved timbers, a low ceiling and an unusual stone and brick mantelpiece. It is lit by a single window containing earlv window glass upon which are scratched the names of distinguished people who visited the birthplace many years ago. The signature of Thomas Carlyle. Isaac Watts and Sir Walter Scott can still be seen, with theatrical names like those of John Toole. Henry Irving and Ellen Terry.

The birthroom is furnished in the style of a bedroom of a middle-class home such as the Shakespeare family enjoyed. Here is an oak joined bed of a type common in Shakespeare's day but now extremely rare, together with a fine carved chest of the lime of Henry VIII. a 17th century child's cradle and some specimens of early needlework.

After spending some time looking round this interesting building, we refreshed ourselves with a cup of coffee, and made our way towards the old church. On passing the Memorial Theatre Museum however, we were tempted to go inside, which we duly did. This contained many pictures of Shakespear­ian actors, including the new paintings of Sir Laurence Olivier as he appeared in 'Macbeth" last season. There were also many pictures depicting scenes from

09

Shakespeare's plays. Among the cases containing relics of past actors and actresses, we saw the scales used by Sir Henry Irving when playing Shylock in "■The Merchant of Venice." and the slippers worn by Ellen Terry as Titania in "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

After being told some interesting facts b\ the guide in the Museum we walked along the riverside to Holy Trinity Church. This church, standing in this delightful riverside setting, possesses a twofold claim to fame. On int­one hand it is our epitome of architectural styles from the 13th century onwards: on the other, it is the shrine of Shakespeare's mortal remains, for here the great dramatist was laid to rest on April 23rd. 1616.

Magnificent in proportions, the church offers abundant fascination. Sjiecial items of interest include a sanctuary door knocker, some wonderfully-carved misencords, an old chained Bible, parish registers containing the entries of Shakespeare's baptism and burial, the 15th century font in which the poet was baptised, and most important of all Shakespeare's monument in the chancel erected within a few years of his death.

After lunch we walked through the Elizabethan Knoll Garden in New Place on our way to the Grammar School and Guild Chapel. Many consider New Place lo be the loveliest scene in Stratford-upon-Avon. unique in its combination of natural and architectural beauty. The mellowed red brick and tiles of irregular-shaped gables, roof and chimney slacks form a perfect setting to a blaze of coloured patterns in the flower beds in front.

The Knoll Garden in the foreground with its curious intcr-knolted beds laid out according to an Elizabethan design, covers part of the site of New Place where Shakespeare lived in his retirement and died. Only the founda­tions of the house itself now remain and are preserved in this garden setting.

The Grammar School is a half-limbered range of buildings, with the Ciuild Chapel attached: it is the finest group of mediaeval architecture in Stratford. The Grammar School is not open to visitors and unfortunately we were unable to go into the Guild Chapel as it was being renovated, so we were only able to look at the exterior of each.

As we had a little time to spare before going to the theatre we walked through the crowded memorial gardens which contain the Gower Monument to Shakespeare.

It was then lime to go into the imposing Memorial Theatre to see "As You Like It." Peggy Ashcroft played Rosalind and Robert Harris. Jacques, in this comedy produced by Glen Byam Shaw. In spite of her age Peggy Ashcroft played her pan with vitality, a matching partner for Richard Johnson, who made a striking Orlando.

We went home feeling that Stratford-upon-Avon indeed has a character and charm not unworthy of the genius who has crowned his town with glory.

SUSAN BIRCH and BKB3CBT LOCK. Form VI.

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K E A T S S L E T T E R S

keats's letters are interesting Itoth for the light they throw on liis poetrj and for their revelations of Keats the man.

in my mind there is no doubt that Keats's letters show a great deal of Keats the man. and it is therefore possible to get a glimpse of him as the kind of man he really was. Thus we are able to grasp more clearly his reasons and methods, and to appreciate his feeling when he wrote his poetry. Surely seeing "Keats the Man" also throws light on his poetry. If we are able to understand the kind of person he was. we shall more fully visualize and under­stand his poetry.

In various letters Keats mentions points connected with his poetry: he tells us his reasons for writing "Endymion". and in this poem he probably incorporated some of his own hopes and ponderings. and the conception of an ideal love which the poem embodies reminds us of Keats's confession that when he was young he "thought a fair woman a pure goddess." In his letters he also gives his reason for abandoning "Hyperion", saying that as the mere poetic treatment of a myth, it got out of hand.

We learn about his moods, feelings and love of beauty. More than once he says that he has no time for marriage, and that his concentration on beauty stifles everthing else. Gradually he begins to sense that he lives, not only in one world, but in a thousand worlds. He thinks that after his death he will be listed among the remembered English poets, and often in his letters he expresses his hopes for his poetry, and how it will be appreciated in various fields. In his letters he tells of his reasons for writing poetrv. and what he thinks good poetry should consist of.

There are three main qualities that he considers good poetry should have. The first that it should strike the reader as an expression of his own highest thoughts and appear almost a remembrance. The second, that its touches of beauty should never be half-way. thereby making the reader breathless instead of content. Thirdly he thinks that if "poetry does not come as naturally to the poet as the leaves to a tree it had better not come at all."

Keats the man is shown in many of his letters, and appears just as any human being normally would, although there is always that touch of the un-human about them. He relates with sorrow the last days of poor Tom. in a letter to George and Georgina Keats, and he says how kind all his friends were to him. In another letter to the same people Keats tells them about Fanny Browne, and it is a perfectly normal description of a person. Keats here showing little of his poetic fancy. In one of these letters he gives a delighful description of Winchester, of the houses and the town, saying that "the side streets here are excessively maiden-ladylike."

So throughout his lelters there are two different "writings", one of Keats the poet. As a poet. Keals tells of his love of beauty, and his feeling that he really is a poet and must continue writing: but as a man he writes on everyday things, and in this way he "explains" much of his poetry.

Therefore I think the letters revealing the man are far more interesting. lor those on his poetry are only a written study of what he expresses in verse. But if one is able to learn what he was like as a man. one can better understand the aims and meanings of his poems.

WFNDY H I I T . Form VI.

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WINTER SPORTS Every year Mummy. Daddy, my brother Vivian and I go skiing in

Austria. For the three last years we have been to Solden. This year we drove to Dover and. on a clear day with a calm and beautiful

sea. crossed to France. All night wc travelled through France. At seven we were on the border of Switzerland.

While we were going through to Austria we passed Lake Lucerne where fir-clad mountains surround one of the biggest and most beautiful of the Swiss Lakes.

We finally arrived at our station in Austria and then had a two hours bus ride to Solden. We arrived very tired, and went straight to bed.

The next morning we put our skis on and went to classes, which was great fun. We had been skiing before, and did not have to start in the bottom class.

One day some classes had a climb to a big hut in the mountains, called Gaisli Alp. In spite of lovely scenery the climb was tiring. When we reached the hut we had our lunch and then skied down.

One day our family tried for our silver medals and all won them. Finally the two weeks were up. I was rather disappointed but it is

pleasant to be home again and have one's own "snuggly" bed. L. AUSIF.R. Form IIIB.

WIMBLEDON, 1 9 5 6

Although the Wimbledon fortnight is very nearly with us again, and by the time this magazine is published will have passed for another year. I feel that our visit to Wimbledon last year should not be omitted.

I am afraid I cannot coin the usual phrase and say "the day dawned line and clear", for as is not unusual it started off by being one of our usual dull and cloudy summer days. But as time went on Mr. Meteorology was kind to us. as the day was sunny and warm.

We (the first and second teams, and a few other people) began our coach journey at about 9.30 a.m. and reached London in three hours.

On arrival at Wimbledon we found the car park, which was gradually filling up with cars and coaches of every shape and size, and guided by the imperious gesticulations of the A.A.. we finally parked on a grass slope over­looking the whole district. We then ate our picnic lunch, sitting on the grass outside the coach.

The gates did not open until 2.0 p.m. On entering the ground we first of all bought programmes, and went round to the main entrance to watch the players and officials arrive.

During the course of that first day. which was the Men*s Singles, we saw-many interesting and exciting matches. On the Centre Court we watched a match between Huber and Budge Patty, and although it was a fairly easy

25

victory for Patty, the acrobatics of Hubcr kept the crowd thoroughly amused. On Court I we saw several good matches. Ken Rosewall and Fry being two of the players. On the outside courts there were also some very good games. and we saw many competitors playing, including Billy Knight. Roger Becker. Tony Pickard. Larson. Neilson and Sven Davidson. We also saw Lew Hoad begin on the path to victory with an easy win against one of the lesser known players. One of the sadder events of the afternoon was the unexpected defeat of Jaroslav Drobny.

I cannot close this article without mentioning the fashions, for some of the "garb" that people wore was certainly astounding. One London fashion house sent triplets all dressed exactly alike, which caused quite a stir: and there was also a startling array of "natty" summer hats and handbags.

All too soon we had to start our homeward journey, and at 6.30 p.m. with much regret we set off before the play had finished. But even so it was great fun. and everyone enjoyed the day io the full.

WINDY H u n , Form VI.A.

T H E AREND-ROLAND COMET

One night Mummy and Daddy took me to see the Arend-Roland Comet. This comet is like a star with a long tail, and first appeared in November 1956. It was discovered by two Belgians.

We went to a place where Daddy knew we would be able to sec the comet clearly. We had read in the papers that the comet was in the north­west.

When we arrived at Elstree. our chosen spot, we got out of the car and found our bearings by the north star. We were looking on the horizon for the comet, but could not see it.

Then, about five minutes later a lady with a pair of field glasses (we had ours but they were not very strong) who had been talking to a policeman came and said. "Excuse me. but are you looking for the comet?" We replied that we were. The lady then said. "Oh! It is over there."

Then we saw it quite high in the sky and not on the horizon where we had been looking! It was like a star with a long tail, which was fainter lhan the head. We. of course, thanked the lady.

Daddy said we must have one last look at the comet, and then go home because it was getting rather late.

I shall always remember the day on which I saw the comet. LYNN THOMAS. Form IV.B.

T H E WIND

The Wind howled all night. Although the stars were bright. It screamed. It swept the clouds along. As it sang its ugly song. It howled.

C. VINTRAS. Form III.B.

-"•

O I R SAILING HOLIDAY IN HOLLAND

Lasl summer holidays my parents, my two brothers and I went to Holland for a sailing holiday. Al eight o'clock one Sunday morning we left for Holland on a plane: after about an hour we arrived at Amsterdam. From there we went to Friesland. which is Northern Holland.

We arrived at last, very weary from travelling all day. at Insum-Grouw. which is where we spent our first night aboard "Spenver." our yacht.

The next day we made our way to Leeuwarden. which is the capital of Friesland. It is a very beautiful city with a lovely cathedral which we visited. Many of the Dutch towns have canals running through the middle of them. and hung on the paling around them are lovely boxes of flowers.

We then moved on again. Friesland is wonderful for sailing, and the Dutch are extremely friendly. Another town worth noting was Bolswarcl. which has a very lovely town hall.

When we reached a place called Workum. we walked to the Ipssal Mere or. as the Dutch call it. the Zuider Zee. As they use their waterways as roads. one sees enormous barges carrying goods. Their swing bridges are interesting for. when you want to go under these, it is necessary to blow a horn called a "klaxon."

We came home after a wonderful holiday in which we all look part to make il truly enjoyable.

LAVINIA GOWRING, Form IV.C.

L'HIVKK La nuit va lomber. La brise souffle. Ft de gros flocons de neige lombent. Et les clochards sous les pont. Se sont endormis de froid. Et Ton voit les lumieres. Des maisons sous un tapis blanc. Helas c'est l'hiver.

I. OF HILIHRIN. Form 1MB.

IN G O O D F A I T H (From Some Years Ago.)

Miss Sheelian-Dare, (complimenting V.A. on a Form play depicting scenes from the life of Queen Victoria). "It seems to me an excellent portrait, and I'm probably the only person in the Hall who saw Queen Victoria and remembers what she was like."

Small girl ( l a t e r ) : "Did you know Queen Elizabeth too?"

First line of a N1.11. Essay: "The Battle of Hastings was fought in the Abbey garden."

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