If": KEARSNEY COLLEGE CHRONICLE m'^ ESfBh Jk a JULY, 1944 "Si -f" : ^■- , ■« .
',T^' * AV^ % « s m s» Mrs. Gordon Watson's Garden. Colour Photograph by A. H. Smith, Esq.
Kearsney College Chronicle Vol. I No. 10 JULY. 1944 EDITORIAL. We do not envy the Editors of newspapers. Heaven forbid that we should ever be called upon to produce an article appertaining to current events six times a week I We picture them retiring to bed at 2 a.m.. Or at whatever time Editors do retire, If ever, after finally laying down the pen of affliction—only to find a very large and hideously grinning gremlin sitting on the pillow, cheerfully chanting "Next, please." We picture them tossing upon their beds, grasping at every fleeting straw, from the progress of the War to the shortage of milk bottles—any peg. In fact, to hang their story on How much easier, says A. A. Milne, to be a bricklayer. The temptation to write on the War is almost overwhelming. After all, the War Is the background of our existence, and has been for all our years at Botha's Hill. And now that the long-awaited Invasion of the continent (misnamed the Second Front) has started, the temptation is even stronger. However, we will turn the back upon It, and after a fleeting reference to the fact that the Sixth Armoured Division Is now leading the field In the Kesselring cross-country up Italy's fibula, we will talk of other things. So what ? Enter once more the gremlin. Not the weather, surely, though the snow on the Berg has been very lovely sometimes, and the writer, like Ovid, "carmlna trementi ducit manu," while the strident east wind hisses through the rigging. What about the oval and the swimming bath ? Artistic and serviceable additions to the school's lay out, to be sure, though now and then one wishes wistfully that equal enthusiasm could be brought to bear upon buildings which more nearly affect the development of the mind. Well then, the rugger ? This has gone well and has brought renown upon the school, though (what ? another concessive clause ?) It Is perhaps regrettable that a school's rise In the social scale should so depend upon her prowess on the sports field. If we are not going to exspatiate on any of the above pregnant themes, then what ? Here Is shown the skill of the Editor. While trying to decide what to write about, he has used up all the editorial space. Very cunning, though not very original. So let him lay down the editorial pen, and start on the bricklaying—gathering together school notes, sports notes, old boys' notes, this, that, and the other, a long, long task that he Is almost afraid to tackle, but one which does not require any special Invocation to the denizens of Helicon. ). F. R. 329
HEADMASTER'S ADDRESS. We quote the following extracts from the Headmaster's address on the last Sunday of the term, completing our fifth year at Botha's Hill. The address was based on the story of the Pharisee and publican who went out to pray. One of the reasons why we loved the school we founded at Kearsney was that we were willing to be humble. We rejoiced when our little school did well; we were quietly proud of her, yet truly humble. There was no thought of thanking Cod for our greatness or of comparing other schools with ours, to their detriment. There was a real sense of our dependence on the good will of others. Here we entered on a new regime. We had and have buildings that cart bear the inspection of the most critical, and we are glad to show visitors round. Each year sees progress and development, so that though much remains to bedoneand built, each item compares favourably with anything other schools possess. So I grow a little afraid that something of the Pharisaical attitude may become ours and that we shall start thank ing God that we are not as other schools are. Added to this there has been the success that has come to us in sport—indeed that has come to us almost too early in our career on the same plane as the other large schools of Natal. So first of all I want to point out one curious commentary on human nature that we are often most proud of those things we have received through no effort of our own: the girl of her beauty, the boy of his natural brilliance at sport, the scholar of his brains. All these are things with which Nature has endowed the possessor, although there may have been some effort to improve on the gift. In the same way there is a danger that we may be developing the wrong kind of pride in the school for which we as individuals have done but little to establish. You boys know quite well that I am proud of your success at football, but the basis of my pride is that your success has come as a result of team work and not through the brilliance of individuals. When we started out on the new adventure here I prayed God that true humility might be one of the characteristics we would find develop ing in the school as a whole. 1 wanted then, as I do now, to find you boys setting service before self, a service that seeks no personal reward, a service that asks no recognition, a service that is fully satisfied wheri it sees a task well and faithfully done. The moral of my little homily to-night is to plead with you not to let false pride develop in the school. Be proud of our reputation for honesty, for fair dealing, and for service. My final prayer is that we may grow in the knowledge and grace of God, serving Him with true humility, anxious for nothing but to be true to the best that is within us, and to inculcate into the very fabric of the school we are building here those things which are lovely and of good report." Count Ciano Played the piano. And Badogllo The piccolio, But Stalin has no time for such accomplished prodigalities— He's much too busy capturing inhabited localities. 330
SCHOOL NOTES. First Term: February 2nd to April 5th. Second Term: April 18th to June 28th. Cillingham House: Housemaster, Mr. C. M. Oram; Assis'ants, Mr. C. de la Ray Nel, Mr. H. ]. van Zyl; Matron, Sister Attlee; Head Prefect, C. ]. Davey; Assistant Prefects, C. J. Barnes, C. H. Stein, T. C. Calder, H. N. Walker (House). Finningley House: Housemaster, Mr. ]. F. Reece; Assistant, Mr. V. L. Clegg; Matron, Sister Gamble; Head Prefect, I. I. Ives; Assistant Prefects, M. F. Crookes, D. E. Damp (School), T. D. Jacobs, G. M. Gillies, G. M. Garbutt, A. V. Trentham (House). Junior House: Housemaster, Mr. C. O. Medworth; Matron. Sister Gamble; Prefects, N. E. Theunissen, L. A. Dixon (House). The colour photograph in the front of this magazine is another gift from Mr. A. H. Smith. Though it has no immediate bearing on the school, except as an incentive to would-be gardeners. It is nevertheless a very pleasing ornament to the magazine, and we are very grateful to its donor. We welcome to the Staff this year three new men, Mr. V. L. Clegg, B.Sc., Mr. G. de la Rey Nel, B.Sc., and Mr. H. J. van yl, B.A., the lastnamed being with us for the year only. All three have settled down admirably and are rendering splendid service in every department of the school's activities, and we sincerely trust that the first-named two will remain with us for many years to come. Rev. B Sewell, too, has been taking Scripture classes all Thursday mornings, and music lessons in the afternoon. Services this year have been taken mostly by Rev. B. Sewell, B.A., B.Sc., but we have enjoyed the monthly visit by Canon Heywood Harris, and have also had services conducted by Rev. S. Le Grove Smith (our superintendent). Rev. R. C. Bellis (of Manning Road, Durban), and Rev. Mokitimi (Chaplain of Healdtown). We have watched the growth of the swimming bath with great interest. In spite of hold-ups through shortage of cement, it was finished before the end of May, and will be ready for use by August, for the July holidays will be required to fill it. After that, thanks to the filtra tion plant, the water never need be changed again, but will, we are assured, get steadily cleaner until we shall drink it in preference to suncrush. The bath is a large one, having the deep "end" and diving boards in the middle. When the precincts have been turfed, and with its beautiful outlook, it will be second to none in the province. Another major development has been the preparation of the cricket oval. This will supply a great need. There has been an interesting contest between a mechanical tree-stumper and a plantation of wattles, and the latter lost with hardly a fight. The corner looks absurdly bare to us now, as we look with unimpeded vision across to the lower playing field. Once again our guardian angel descended in practical form, and it was the placing of a cheque for £600, signed by Mr. A. H. Smith, which made this scheme possible. Need we repeat how grateful we are to him for his many generosities ? This term we lose Miss Geddes, who has so admirably combated the wiles of the food controller for the past four years and provided us with meals fit for a king, even though it be a schoolboy's privilege to grumble. Miss Geddes has been lured into matrimony, and henceforth her address will be Mrs. G. Buntting, Qudeni. We shall miss her, and trust that when petrol allows she will return to see us. Before the term ended, she was the recipient of presents from the staff and school, and we wish her well. 331
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Reece on the arrival of a sister for Peter, who has become very paternal and patronising ! The newcomer bears the name of Judy. During the half year the school has bought 125 Union Loan Certifi cates, via the medium of savings stamps. The Rugger XV is tb be congratulated on its good showing this year, especially the captain, C. j, Davey, and the three representatives in the Natal Schools side, H. N. Walker (forward), T. C. Calder (forward), and N. E. Theunissen (wing). Mr. C. A. B. Peck, Clerk to the Natal Provincial Council, gave a talk to the members of the Fifth and Sixth forms, on March 1 1 th, on "Reminiscences of the National Convention, 1910." Salvete: We welcome the following new boys; Form V, ]. B. Nieuwoudt (Hill Crest), K. M. Oliver (Durban). Form IV, E. 6. Hughes (Durban), P. McLeroth (Benoni), T. Nieuwoudt (Hill Crest) Form II I, R. J. Baker (Kloof), E. J. R. Caney (Durban), 0. K. Clarkson (Durban), M. L. Coppin (Durban), L. Dyson (Kokstad), H. N. Groom (Tweedie), E. 8. Kettle (Botha's Hill), R. J. Kitchin (Durban North), D. G. T. Leather (Hidcote), P. E. Metcalf (P.M.B.), N. G. Pottow (P.M.G.), R. G. Spradbrow (Durban), A. C. Taylor (Durban), B. R. Thorpe (Colenso), E. j. von Gorkom (Scottburgh), M. E. Walsh (Durban). Form I I, C. E. Meinzer (Johannesburg), J. A. Smith (Durban), D. C. M. Wheelwright (Pinetown), D. H. Williamson (Johannesburg). Form I, J. R. Burrows (Gillitts), R A L. Kennedy (Ixopoj, J. G. R. Kinlcch (Isipingo), E. N. C. Kitchin (Durban North), W. B. Letcher (Tabankulu), C. L. Oliver (Bellair), A. M. M. Raw (Eastwolds), I. M. Sandeman (Ceylon), J. M. Smith (Vereeniging), R. R. Whitear (Umzinto), R. F. K. Wilson (Durban). Valete: The following boys are leaving us this June; M. I Crookes W. B. Boast. On the last night of the second term a grass fire, fanned up the valley by a gale of wind, swept through the plantation of five-year-old pines, in spite of the midnight efforts of most of the school to prevent it. It is feared that about 400 trees have been destroyed. Sounds, alternately raucous and sweetly sentimental, issuing from the Staff common-room, caused some concern to by-passers for a while, until it was realised that the Staft were rehearsing for a play, to be presented early next term. Object; funds for Cavalcade. SWIMMING BATH. Early in 1943 the site between Junior House and the Armoury was selected for the swimming bath. Boys laboured very eagerly at first in starting on the excavations, but as time went by and no further move seemed to be made, interest flagged. The Council, however, had the faith and within a very short space of time, the plans were drawn, a tender was accepted and work began. Now, six months later, the job is complete. The changing room, showers and filtration plant are con tained in a neat building on the site, and the terraces levelled. A low stone wall has been built on the road side. The whole lay-out makes for spaciousness and beauty. We are proud of our new acquisition and take this opportunity of congratulating Messrs. 0. Grinaker on doing such a satisfactory job. The bath will be officially opened next term as soon as the warmer weather commences. 332
ENTERTAINMENTS. Feb. 5th; "The Saint goes to Palm Springs." t9th: "Swiss Family Robinson." Mar. 4th: "Tom Brown's School Days." 18th; "Hold that Ghost." Aor. 1st: "The Devil and Miss Jones." 4th:"The Road to Zanzibar." 22nd; "The Ghost of Frankenstein." May 6th: "Saboteur." 13th; "Golden Gloves." June 3rd; "It started with Eve." 1 7th;"Blind Flying." 26th; "You'll Find Out." Violent earth tremors in the district on the evening of Saturday, May 20th, were not due, as was suspected locally, to a movement of the earth's crust, but to a further visit on the part of Mr. Harold Scott, pianist, whose rather frail physique belies a powerful pair of wrists and some piston-like fingers. Mr. Scott's finger technique, in fact, is quite remarkable, and we envied his ability usually to hit the right note, or several of them simultaneously, but the tout ensemble was rather like an anti-aircraft barrage, and one string at least couldn't stand the strain. One couldn't quite see the wood for the trees, and melody and tone were lost in the welter of noise. Mr. Scott played Grieg and Chopin almost entirely, but we think we noticed Liszt's Second Rhapsody, and quite the most pleasant item of the evening was a representation of a musical box, by a Russian composer. Discerning critics observed that in this item the pianist once or twice removed his right foot from the loud pedal, and even so far forgot himself as to put his left on the soft one. The half year ended with what is now becoming regarded as a pre cedent, namely, a school concert. It is quite remarkable how much talent lies hidden in the school, and only needs a little diligent hunting and then some earnest practising to bring it to light. The Choir's rendering of "The Heavens are telling"showed how much hard graft there must have been, for the music for this arrived only at half term, and it was far harder than anything previously attempted. The programme, given below, speaks for itself.. It is pleasing to see that some seniors are willing to sing solo, and Wilker especially is the possessor of a powerful voice. Mr. Reece prefaced the concert with a few words on the work of the Choir during the half year, and the general value of this musical training. CONCERT PROGRAMME. 1 . Piano Duet—March from Tannhauser ... Miss Fraser and Mr. Reece 2. Chorus—"The Heavens are telling the Glory of God" (Haydn's "Creation") ... The Choir 3. Song—"Shipmates o' Mine" Trentham and Hill 4. Reading—From Stephen Leacocke Sandeman 5. Part-song—"Early one Morning" The Choir 6. Song—" Macushia" Fielding 7. Piano Solo—"Summer Idyll" (Rowley) Young 8. Part-song—" Maiden of the Fleur de Lys" The Choir 9. Duet—"The Twins"(from "The French Maid ") McLeod and Stein 10. Sacred Aria—"But the Lord is mindful" ("St. Paul," by Mendelssohn) ... Trebles and altos 1 1 . Piano Solo—"Handkerchief Dance" (Granger) Mr. Sewell SHORT INTERVAL. 333
12. Part-song—"Huntsman's Chorus" (Weber) The Choir 13. Song—"Stone-cracker John" Ives, Wedderburn, Friday 14. Part-song—"The Lass with the delicate air" (Arne) Trebles and altos 15. Song—"Tit-Willow" ("Mikado") Dixon, Slayen, Lawson 16. Piano Solo—-"The Sea Song" (Dunhill) Albertyn 17. Part-song—"Standin' in de need of prayer" The Choir 18. Song—"When the foeman bares his steel" (Pirates of Penzance) ... Wilker, Poole,Didcott, Kjonstad, Boast 19. Pantomome—"The Draper's Assistant" Mr. Sewell 20. Song—"jack's the Boy"("Geisha ") Fielding, Lee, Harrison, Sandeman 21 . Piano Solo—"Sleeping Beauty" (Tschaikowsky) ... Poole 22. Reading—From A. A. Milne Trentham 23. Song—"When Britain really ruled the waves" ("lolanthe")...Wilker 24. Part-song—" The Watchman's Song" (Pearsall) The Choir CHOIR. A great impetus was added to the already outstanding enthusiasm of the choralists when it was mada known that the Carol Service at the end of this coming year is to be staged in West Street Church, Durban, and is to be broadcast by the S.A.B.C. This is no less than their deserts, for they have worked untiringly and always with good spirit. As a whole the Choir is not so well balanced as last year. The basses, a dozen in all, are all verystrong vocalists and have to be curbed lest they drown the rest; the tenors are numerous but for the most part comparatively noiseless, or at least overwhelmed by the basses; the altos, few in number, are naturally not so noticed, though being responsible for some quite difficult work; the trebles, on the other hand, have good tone and volume, and the choirmaster is wondering how many of them can last the year. If there is a general fault, it is the poor quality of the vowel sounds, or vahl sahnds, as the basses would have it. There is now ample sheet music available, so the repertoire of anthems and part-songs has been larger than in the past. The"magnum opus"of the half year—in fact, it was only started five weeks ago—has been "The Heavens are telling," from Haydn's"Creation." Fortunately by this time most of the singers could read music adequately, otherwise the difficult contrapuntal work would have been quite impossible. With only two practices a week, and a good deal of other singing thrown in, this chorus was learnt in under half a term. Other sacred works have been: "Send out Thy Light" (Gounod), "Hark the Clad Souncf" (Farmer), and "While the Earth Remaineth"(Maunder)). Add to these the part-songs,"Huntsman's Chorus"(Weber),"Fleur de Lys"(Sydenham),"Early one morning,""Standin' in de need of prayer"(Spiritual), "The Watchman's Song" (Pearsall), "Lass with the Delicate Air" (Arne), and "But the Lord is mindful"(Mendelssohn), and finally the solo items which will be found on the concert programme elsewhere, and it will be seen that the Choir has not wasted its time. As almost a third of the school attends these practices, it will be seen how valuablea piece of cultural work is being done. ). F. R. 334
LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY. President: The Headmaster. Vice-President; Mr. J. F. Reece. Secretary: W. Wllker. Executive Committee: C. Stein, I. Jackson, A. V. Treniham, M, Lawson, j. Redgment. Programme ; February 27th—Debate:"That Euthanasia should be made legal." Pro poser, I. Jackson; seconder, J. Redgment. Opposer, L. Forsyth; seconder. A. Henochsberg. Motion won, 29—12. March 5th—Seven men in a boat. Ship's company: I. B. Simmonds (dramatist), A. V. Trentham (doctor), M. Lawson (scientist), R. Whiteley (social worker), I. Jackson (industrialist), E. Hall (author), C. Didcott (politician). Voting: Jackson, 12; Trentham, 11; Whiteley, 6; Simmonds, 5; Hall and Lawson, 2 each; Didcott, none. March 19th—Debate: "That the Indians should be repatriated." Pro poser, T. J. Lloyd; seconder, R. Friday. Opposer, I.I. Ives; seconder, D. Barker. Motion lost, 14—28. April 1st—Lecturettes. O. McLaverty, on "Printing." E. J. Sandeman. on"Ceylon." T. C. Smyth, on"The Siege of Ladysmith." J. Grant, on "The Telephone." April 30th—Debate:"That Germany can be knocked out of the War by bombing alone." Proposer, A. Jones; seconder, D. Cominos. Opposer, A. Henochsberg; seconder, E. O. Hughes. Motion lost, 6—39. May 14th—Quiz evening. May 28th—Debate: "That the control of the British Empire should be decentralised." Proposer, R. Whiteley; seconder, P. J. Wills. Opposer, I . B. Simmonds; seconder, A. E. Squibb. Motion lost, 4—29. June 1 1th—An evening with A. A. Milne. Introduction by Mr. Reece. Readings by J. R. C. Brown, K. C. Nelson, J. L. Doveton, T. McKenzie, J. T. Preece. June 24th—Debate; "That the influence of the Press is beneficial." Proposer, K. M. Oliver; seconder. C. D. Hill. Opposer, C. H. Stein; seconder, R. C. Foss. Motion won, 29—7. The standard of speaking reached last year has hardly been main tained. The best speakers come from the senior forms, though it is a pity that a society such as this receives so little support from the sixth form, who surely should be its leaders and who would benefit most from its programme. Those who do attend are certainly the society's- most virile and virulent speakers. There have been one or two innovations. Seven men in a boat found themselves without sustenance, and under the necessity of having to throw six of their number overboard. All seven, representing different professions and occupations, made passionate appeals to the audience, giving comprehensive reasons why they should not be the victims of circumstances. Yet even Simmonds' plaintive, "I don't want to die," and another's confession that he could not swim were unavailing, and Jackson's eloquence (rather than the cogency of his arguments) gained him the majority vote, with Dr. Trentham, as"prox.ime accessit," allowed to hold on to the rudder. As befits the prime cause of the world's ills, Didcott failed to secure a vote. Quiz evening was instructive and amusing. Mr. Reece, as Quiz Master, asked questions alternately to the two groups, divided into houses, and the end found Finningley in the lead by three votes. Questions were thrown open to each group as a body, anyone being entitled to answer, and probably a modicum of useful information was acquired. Some answers were priceless, but it was feared that Hall had breakfasted on an encyclopaedia. 335
In general debate the best speakers included jackson, Stein, Ives, Cole, Fielding, Trentham, Redgment, Lloyd, Smyth, Redgment, Forsyth, Hall, Sandeman, Didcott, Lee, and one could include half a dozen more. The more junior members for the most part sat at the feet of Gamaliel and were content to listen. Wit and vituperation flowed fairly freely, and sometimes debaters spoke to the point. A gavel now being added to the chairman^s accoutrement, he was able to recall side-trackers or the over-boisterous to the straight and narrow path of reverence and relevance. Thanks are due to the Minute Secretary for his untiring energy in taking down speeches almost verbatim. Perhaps Hour Secretary would not be a misnomer. NEW OVAL. Through the generosity of Mr. A. H. Smith, who gave us a cheque to cover the cost of the levelling of the field, we have not only started on the Oval, but at the time of going to press, all the trees have been stumped and removed and the ground is already being levelled. We cannot adequately express our sincere appreciation to Mr. A. H. Smith for this further proof of his real and abiding interest in our needs and our welfare. We hope that history will indeed be made on thisground in the years which lie ahead. If all goes according to schedule, this field ought to be in operation in 1945. We have a cricket field in theshape of an oval and also a track for athletics of the standard size and shape. EXAMINATION RESULTS. Mafriculafion.—1st Class: B. }. Woods (Maths.). 2nd Class: ]. A. Clarkson, L. A. H. Lewis. 3rd Class: E, van der Schyff, I. McLeod. School Leaving Certificate.—2nd Class: A. J. Boorman. 3rd Class: I, I. Ives (Bookkeeping), D. Rock. J.C.— 1st Class: P. B. Chaplin, C. Didcott, B. J. P. Duranty, L. F. Forsyth, E. Hall, ). Redgment, 2nd Class: D. M. Comins, J. A. Grant, W. Hodsdon, A. R. jones, D. M. Pope, E. J. Sandeman, A. V. Trentham, J. P. S. Turner, A. B. van Aardt, P. j. Wil|s. 3rd Class: I. V. B. Simmonds, G D. Hill, W. M. jacobs, W. B. King, D. J. Kjonstad, C. K. Miles-Cadman, R. W. Woods. ).C. Bursaries.—L. F. Forsyth, E. Hall. N.S.C.—I. W. D. Stones. N.C.P.C.—T. W. Calder, E. N. A. Jackson, R. C. McLeod (dist.), D. E. Damp, N. E. Theunissen, N. H. Walker, G. H. Walsh, R. W. Whiteley. N.J.C.—R. H. Dale, V. Davy, j. A. Franklin, D. H. jones, B. O. Neal, D. North, N. R. Paverd, j. L. B. Taylor, D. L. Woodhead. P.S.C.—E. Anderson, I. N. F. Benson, R. W. H. Bevin, R. G. Brand. A. S. Brass, j. R. E. Butterworth, H. A. Gowen, j. S. M. Fox, I. R. Leisegang, id. C. Metcalfe, I . E. Morgan, G. L. Ovenstone, D. B. Peddle, D. M. W. Pugh, ]. M. Ray, K Shimwell, G. W. Shuker, B. H. Spilsbury, R. A. j. Taylor, L. E. Trehearn. D. Whyte, P. |. Witney, 1. ]. Woodhead, P. R. Young, A. H. Yuille (all continuation); j. Steven (leaving). P.S.C. Bursaries.—I. R. Leisegang, P. j, Witney, I. j. Woodhead. 336
CRICKET. This half seems to have been a tale of lost opportunities, chiefly due to catches missed in the slips in the early part of the innings. The bowlers, who are not really mature enough, suffered as a result of these lapses. The batting has been fair but might quite easily be good if there was less nervousness and more determination. The ability to"dig in"seems to be lacking, and the desire to score early by brilliant driving has too often led to downfall. There is no doubt that the side has promise, and we hope the last half of the year will bear out this state ment. Owing to the fact that our turf wicket had deteriorated badly, all matches had to be played away from home. The Junior XI contains some very promising material. Colours are awarded to C. Davey. Feb. 12th. v. D.H.S. Away. Lost by 2 wickets. Played in the rain. Both sides found conditions difficult. Stein played a correct and restrained innings and so did Jonsson, while Ives bowled very well. Kearsney: Ives, c Kap'an b Hay 0; Jones, Ibw b Hay 4; Walker, c Deane b Donaldson 7; Gillies, b Donaldson 11; Jcnsson, b Hay 20; T. Jacobs, c Mun Gavin, b Moon 6; Stein, c Lewis b Donaldson 36; Davey run out 14; McLeod, Ibw b Donaldson 0; Theunissen, b Deane 1; W. Jacobs, not out 5; extras 1. Total 1 19. D.H.S.: 120 fcr 8 wkts. Bowling: Jacobs, 14—0—60—2; Walker, 3—1—7—1; Jonsson, 3—0—19—0; Gillies, 4—0—17—0; Ives, 5—0—21—4. Feb. 19th. v. CLENWOOD. Away. Lost by 47 runs. Jonsson played a fine fighting innings and, with Stein, almost pulled the game round, but when the latter was run out no one could stay with him. The bowling lacked any real driection, and although we had six Glenwood wickets down for 60, their tail enders took heavy toll of an inaccurate attack. Kearsney: Jones, Ibw b Nicolson 8; Walker, c Nicolson b Bowman 2; Jacobs, run out 3; Gillies, c Bowman b Alexander 7; Jonsson, c Sanderson b Alexander 65; Ives, c Russell b Alexander 0; Stein, run out 16; Davey, c Bowman b Alexander 4; Jacobs, b Sanderson 0; McLeod, b Sanderson 2; Theunissen, not out 0; extras 5. Total 12. Glenwood: 150 (Bowman 30, Logan 351 Bowling: Jacobs, 8—1—37—1; Walker. 10—2—35—4; Gillies, 6—0—26—3; Ives, 5—2—21—0; Jonsson, 8—A—17—2; Theunissen, 3—0—15—0. Feb. 25th. V. MARISTS. Away. Won by 6 wickets. The middle batsmen played much more freely. Gillies seemed to be timing his shots badly, but Jonsson, Jacobs and Davey hit freely. Friday bowled very well in his first appearance in the XI. Kearsney: Jones, b Miller 15; W. Jacobs, c Magnet b Capell 6; Gillies, b Walsh 31; Jonsson, c Smith b Gersigny 27; T. Jacobs, not out 35; Davey, not out 21; extras 9. Total (for 5 wkts.) 152. McLeod, Stein, Ives and Friday did not bat. Marists: 90. Bowling: Jacobs, 11—2—28—1; Walker, 3—0—11—1; Friday, 16—7—23—5; Ives, 8—1—13—2; Jonsson, A—2—9—1. March 4th. v. ST. CHARLES. Away. Won by 4 wickets. A game of fluctuating fortunes. St. Charles were 100 for 3 and all out for 29, Friday again having the best figures.. We were 46 for 6 and then an un defeated 107 partnership between Gillies and Davey, both of whom played superb cricket, gave us a victory just on time. Kearsney: Jones, Ibw b Boys 2; Walker, b Farreli 0; Ives, Ibw b Boys 9; Gillies, not out 44; Jonsson, b Boys 5; Jacobs, b Boys 0; Stein, b Farreli 12; Davey, not out 63; extras 8. Total (for 6 wkts) 153. McLeod, Theunissen and Friday did not bat. St. Charles: 129. Bowling: Jacobs, 6—2—21—2; Theunissen, 4—2—7—0; Friday, 19—8—22—4; Ives, 11—3—26—1; Jones, 1—-0—12—0; Jonsson, 13_2—-25—2; Walker, 2—0—4—0. nth March. v. MARITZBURC COLLEGE. Away. Drawn. While the fielding was not slack, alertness would have caused some early dis missals which would certainly have altered the run of play. Friday again bowled 337
very steadily without any luck. Our opening batsmen made a very spirited and confident start, when rain stopped play. Maritzburg College: 225 for 4 (Backhouse 105 not out; Rutherford 64) Bowling: Walker, 5—0—32—1; Gillies, 9—0—37—1; Friday, 18—2—69—0; Ives, 10—0—37—1; Jacobs, 5—0—26—0; Jonsson, 4—0—T9—T. Kearsney: Jones, Ibw b McGlew 22; W. Jacobs, not out 22; extras, 1. Total (for 1 wkt.) 45. Ives, Gillies, Jonsson, Stein, Davey, T. Jacobs, Walker, McLeod and Friday did not bat. Away. 25th March- v. HILTON. Lost by 7 wickets. After an encouraging start a quite unaccountable collapse followed, due not by any means to the quality of the bowling, but to a strange and very apparent nervousness. A spirited last wicket stand recovered some of the lost ground, but by then the damage had been done. Our opponents scored freely against an attack lacking any accuracy. Kearsney: Jones, run out 15; W. Jacobs, c Levey b King 20; Theunissen, c and b Walker 18; Gillies, b Walker 6; Ives, Ibw b Edkins 7; Stein, c Booth b Walker 1; Davey, c Levey b Walker 8; T. Jacobs, b Levey13; Walker. Ibw b Levey 19; McLeod, Ibw b Levey 5; Friday, not cut 11; extras 5. Total 128. Hilton: 154 for 3 (Waker 64, King 45 not cut). Bowling: Jacobs, 5—0—28—0; Walker, 5—1—25—0; Friday, 2—ID—41—1; Ives, 9—1—25—1;Stein, 4—0—23—1. OTHER MATCHES. Under IS; V. Glenwood.—Glenwood: 80 (Slayen 7 for 37). by an innings and 6 runs. V. Marists.—Marists: 91 (P. Garbutt 4 for 10; Slayen 3 for 19). Davy 64; Leather 43). Won by 94 runs. V. St. Charles.—St. Charles: 43. Kearsney: 252 (Henochsberg 52 not out; Davy 48; Garbutt 29; Leather 26). Won by 209 runs. Maritzburg College.—Maritzburg College: 110 Kearsney: 24 and 54. Lost Kearsney: 185 (Slayen 4 for 16). Kearsney Foss 21). Won by 3 wickets. 136 for 8 (Slatfer 39 not out; Under 16: V. Hilton.—Hilton: 112 (P. Garbutt 4 for 33). Kearsney: 93 IWhiteley 27; Leather 23). Lost by 19 runs. Juniors; V. Highbury 1st XI.—Kearsney: 34. V. Highbury 2nd XI.—Kearsney: 31. Highbury 2nd XI.—Kearsney: 145 5 (S Highbury: 38. Lost by 4 runs. Highbury: 43 for 6. Lost by 4 wickets. (Wedderburn 30; Stewart 33) and 91 for tewart 34 Clarkson 29 not out). Highbury: 33 (Clarkson 4 for 3). Won by 147 runs. (Clarkson 4 for 16) and 54 HOUSE GAMES. t«t Team; Gillingham: 146 (Walker 32). Finningley: 117 (Walker 6 for 24), Gillingham won by 29 runs. 2nd Team: Gillingham: 53 (Leather 5 for 28) and 86. Finningley1:04 and 57 for 4. Finningley won by 6 wickets. Gillingham: 88 (Davy 54) and 79 for 2 declared (Davy 28 not out) Finningley: 99 (Foss 28; Leather 24) and 60 for 5). Drawn. 3rd Team: Finningley: 83 and 56 (King 7 for 30). Gillingham: 25 (Hughes 4 for 17) and 52 (Ovenstone won by 62 runs. Gillingham: 27 (Israils 6 for 9) and 95 (RItz 29). Finningley: 56 (Stewart 27) and 32 (Witney 5 for 9). Gillingham won by 34 runs. 4th Team: Gillingham: 49 (Franklin 5 for 11 ) and 26 (Crookes 6 for 8) Finningley: 32 (Fielding 6 for 10) and 43 (Caider 6 for 17). A tie. 5th Team: Gillingham: 5 (Rapson 5 for 1) and 51. Finningley; 85 (Rapson 45). Finningley won by an Innings and 29 runs. 6 for 8). Finningley 338
RUGBY. It was generally expected that the 1944 side would be a fairly good one, but not many realised the immense possibilities the players possessed. As the results have proved, the side has been a very strong one indeed. It would be quite safe to say that this side is the best the school has ever had. The three qualities for a good side, fitness, determination and speed are all present. The pack though mostly outweighted has never flagged and their covering-up in defence and work in the loose has been very good. In the threequarter line there has been plenty of speed and enterprise. We were not yet ready when our first match was played, three days after our return from Easter, otherwise the record might have been improved upon. The side has played attractively and they fully deserve the good things said of them. We hope the second half of the season will be as successful as the first half has been. If the ball is kept in play and our three-quarters can be given an equal share of it, then the side will always give a good account of itself. The following were invited to the Natal Schools Trials this year : N. Theunissen, Gillies, Damp (three-quarters); McLeod, Davey (halves); Calder, Walker (forwards). Congratulations to N. Theunissen, T. Calder, N. Walker on being selected for Natal Schools and for the good showing they made in the game; to McLeod and Gillies on being selected as Reserves. We thought both McLeod and Gillies unlucky not to be in the Schools side T. Nieuwoudt was selected to play for Durban Intertown U. 15. There is some promising material coming on lower down the school, and we look forward to a fairly high standard of Rugby being maintained April 29th. V. MARITZBURG COLLEGE. At College Lost 5—9. An early penalty near the posts was not converted and our visitors thus missed an early lead, he first score came through a mistake by Nieuwoudt, Calder, an opposing centre, dashing through (G—3). McLeod next missed a possible penalty end then a second long range penalty was wide. We kept up repeated pressure with the forwards working hard. Damp dummied and dived over near the posts, McLeod converting <5—3). In the second half a penalty for playing the ball in the scrum cost us three points (5-6). Our backs handled badly and many chances were missed. Our opponents next scored from an interception (5—9). Before the end there were many thrills, but the defence on both sides was very keen indeed, and neither side gained much advantage. It was a game of opportunities: we did not accept curs, our opponents did. May 6th. v. HILTON. In Maritzburg Won 17—6. An early penalty goal by McLeod put the side on their toes (3—0). A centre broke and swung out to the wing, who raced ever far out (3—31. Gillies failed to get the ball into touch quickly, was caught; a quick heel, a full three-quarter move, and our opponents scored a beautiful try (3—6). In the second half our forwards dominated the play. Whereas we had seen little of the ball from the set scrums, we now saw more, but a tendency to short punt by the fly-half and centres nullified our forwards' efforts. A magnificent penalty from the half-way line by McLeod brought us level (6—6). From this stage the- side played inspired Rugby. Repeatedly the forwards went through with the ball at their feet and were just held out. Theunissen dived over, but a Hilton player got there at the same time. Jardine then dribbled through to score, McLeod just missing from far out (9—6). From a line cut near their line Walker, who had been very good in the line outs, forced his way over. McLeod again was just wide from far out (12—-6). At this stage Calder, who had been everywhere, went through with the ball at his feet. A Hiltor back dived cn the ball and Calder in falling had the misfortune to break a bono in his wrist. The final score came from a clever three-quarter move; gairing from a loose scrum, McLeod cut through, passed to Damp, a reverse oass caught the opposition on the wrong foot and McLeod outran the Hilton threes to score neai the posts, and he also converted (17—6). 339
May 13th. v. ST. HENRY'S. In Durban. Won 12—8. Playing against a heavy wind we were kept on the defensive by a series of forward rushes and the use ot the touch line. We were penalised near our posts for off-side and Dean converted a penalty 10—31. Play swept down field and Damp broke through and dived for the line, but the try was disallowed. McLeod booted a dropped pass ahead and outran the opposition to score in the corner (3—3J. After half-time St. Henry'c broke through and by good forward play dived over near the pests and Dean converted (3—8). Davey now moved to the wing and the ball came his way from a loose scrum and he beat his opponent, scoring in the corner after a most determined run. McLeod's kick was just wide (6—8). Shortly afterwards McLeod goaled a penalty and we took the lead for the first time (9—8). Another change, with Davey coming back to the scrum, proved a good move, because the ball was coming out faster, and Damp broke and sent Theunissen over, McLeod just missing the conversion (12—8). The game was somewhat spoilt from a spectator's point of view by the persistence of the St. Henry's loose forwards in coming round too fast and so cutting out three-quarter play. May 20ih. v. MICHAELHOUSE. At Balgowan. Won 1 1—3. Playing in a heavy cross wind we were forced on the defensive, but not for long, because McLeod cut through and sent Jones flying for the line. Had he dived he must have got in, but he was p^'shed into touch in goal. Again McLeod cut through, passed to Damp, who dummied neatly and Theunissen outran the opposi tion to score well out. McLeod's kick was wide (3—0). his was the only score in a well fought half. Almost immediately after the kick off Michaelhouse forwards swept through but Ives saved; they came again but found Ives' defence very sound. Then we attacked, McLeod cut through neatly and lobbed a pass over to Gillies, who ran round to score an attractive try for McLeod to goal (8—0). Soon after, McLeod was just wide with a beautiful long range penalty. Michaelhouse gained the ball a good deal from the set scrums and from the loose, but our three-quarters' defence was sound. Tne forwards, with Walker and Barnes ever in the thick of it, worked their way upfield and a punt ahead and a desperate race found Barnes just ahead of the defence to dive and score in the corner. The kick went wide (1 1—^1. Attacking strongly, the Michaelhouse pack, which played excellently throughout, broke through and were justly rewarded when Oberlin-Harris went over (11—3). Soon after, the final whistle went. It was a most attractive game, played at top pace and thoroughly enjoyed by both sides because it was played in the open sporting way all games should be played. May 27th. v. D.H.S. At Kearsney. Won 1 1—6. Agatn a heavy wind found us battling hard in the first minutes, but with D.H.S. knocking on our forwards cleared and then McLeod made a perfect break and the whole line handled for Theunissen to score far out (3—0). Twice we looked dangerous, but Damp knocked on at a critical stage. Our forwards were very quick up in defence and gave the halves little scope to move in. With a heavier pack D.H.S. were getting the ball from most set scrums, but this was nullified by determined tackling Just on half time there was a scrum on our line in the corner and from a melee a D.H.S. forward fell on the ball (3—3). With the wind in our favour we were early on the attack. McLeod hung a bit too long with his oass, Haynes intercepted, but Davey brought him down with a flying tackle. At this stage, Davey, McLeod, Camp and Gillies were defending well and Ives at full back was cool and safe. It was, however, in the forwards, with Calder, Walker, Barnes and Nieuwoudt never for a mon^ent slacking their efforts, where our founda^- tion for victory was laid. A quick heel from the loose and away went the threes. Gillies drew two men and sent Jones off to score in the corner after a determined run. With a perfectly judged kick McLeod converted (8—3). The D.H.S. forwards, taking scrums for line out, were on the attack and a good blind side move with a determined run by Soames brought a well earned try (8—6>. Not to be outdone cur forwards worked downfleld and a long punt ahead and three forwards giving chase, saw Trentham score in the corner just on time. McLeod's kick, a good one, just went wide (11—6). The game was admirably handled by Mr. Archibald. June 3rd. v. CLENWOOD. At JHome. Won 25—6. An early break by Gillies nearly let Jones In. Glenwood worked upfield and then from a loose scrum we attacked, Damp broke loose and sent Theunissen over in the corner (3—0). We worked our way to their line and Calder secured in the loose and dived over in the corner (6—0). McLeod made two excellent attempts at conversion. Just before half-time McLeod converted a penalty from a sharp angle (9—0). There had been some bright play in the first half, but we 340
1ft did not quite expect Ihe brilliance the second half produced. Glenwood were awarded a penalty, which they converted <9—3), then cur three-quarters in a series of perfect movements swept through. Damp half broke and sent Theunissen racing over in the corner. With a lovely kick McLeod converted (14—3). Soon after, from a loose scrum, Theunissen picked up and was away and over in the corner almost before the cpposltion knew what had happened (17—31. A high kick by Damp found the Glenwood full back out of position and Jones following up very fast had the right step and ran round to score behind the posts fcr AAcLeod to convert (22—3). From the kick off Glenwood worked upfield and Bell securing from a line-out forced his way for a good try (22—6K McLecd kicked off— Glenwood miskicked, Gillies was up in a flash and over for an excellent opportunist try (25—6). The game was brimful of sparkle. The forwards were very good in the loose, while the three-quarlers were always enterprising and certain. At Maritzburg. June JOth ST. CHARLES. Won 9—0. The team did not move wi lh the same smooth precision as the previous week, probably due to the Trials auring the week. We missed Damp, who had been injured. Our first score came when the forwards went through and Jardine dribbled over to score (3—0). Gillies broke brilliantly twice in succession but had no support; both might easily have been certain tries. McLeod was next to score from a penalty taken well cut (6—0). The final try came from Nieuwoudt, who had followed up hard, caught the opposition, and dribbled ahead to touch down in the corner. McLecd made a very good attempt to convert (9—0). All the scoring took place in the second half. OTHER MATCHES. 5fh Div. A: V. Highbury 2nd, won 12-6, won 41-3. 5th Div. B: V. Highbury 2nd, lost 0-9, won 6-3, lost 0-3. 5th Div. A: V. Highbury 1st, won 3-0, lost 3-8. Under 15: V. Marists, won 9-6. V. Michaelhouse, lost 6-1 1. House Marches: Under 15: V. D.H.S., won 14-8. v^ Glenwood, won 23-0. V. St. Charles, won 1 1-6. v. Hilton, lost 3-13. V. Maritzburg College, won 26-3. 2nd XV: V. St. Charles, won 25-3. Under 14: V. St. Charles, drew 6-6. 1st XV. Gillingham .. 6 Finningley 3 2nd XV. Finningley .. 31 Gillingham 3 3rd XV. Finningley .. 10 Gillingham 3 4th XV. Gillingham .. 6 Finningley 3 and Finningley .. 8 Gillingham 6 CADET CORPS. A great deal has been done in the first half of this year. Apart from normal parades we have instituted N.C.O.'s classes before parades in order to assist the officers in the smooth running of the Parades. An Ambulance Unit consisting of 20 Cadets has been formed, for which we have full equipment, and we are grateful to Sister Attlee for undertaking the Instruction in this branch. A Signal Course has been instituted. We are to start officially in August. A nucleus of 20 selected Cadets has been the starting point. Instructors will come weekly from Durban and all the necessary equipment is promised. Two excellent field days were enjoyed. The standard on the Parade Ground is good and we feel that the added Interest with two new Units will make Cadets a very helpful part of the school career. Congratulations to: 2/Lieut. C. M. Oram on the result of his Course at Port Elizabeth in December He has been promoted to the substan tive rank of Lieut. 341
Congratulations to: 2/Lieut, (S.O.) J, Davey for being selected top . of the list in Natal to go on a Senior Cadet Course with the 1st Armoured Brigade Group at Potchefstroom. His visit was most interesting and in structive, because he was with a Brigade actually training for the real thing. The following went to Courses in January. Their positions and qualifications are given in brackets:— C. ]. Davey (3 P.), G. Gillies (55 P.), G. H. Stein (1 1 P.), B. W. Boast (92 P.), I. 8. Simmonds (18 P ), A. Trentham, ] Redgment, G. Garbutt, G. Harrison, R. Lee, G. Walsh, E. Cole, A. v. Aardt, G. Hill. Promotions.—Application for the following as Student Officers : I. Ives, G. Gillies, G. Stein, I. Bruton-Simmonds, R. McLeod; to C.S.M.: A. Trentham; to Sgts.: T. Cole, G. Barnes, j. Redgment, R. Lee, G. Hill; to Cpl.: A. V. Aardt, W. Wilker, G. Garbutt, H. Crookes, N. Theunissen N. Walker, D. Damp, B. Boast, G. Walsh, G. Harrison; to L/Corp: T. Calder, L. Dixon, P. jonsson, L. Forsyth, E. Hall, P. Slayen, T. Jacobs. R. Friday, R. Whiteley, D. Jones. Shooting.—Congratulations to: G. Gillies (92), and C. Davey (90), on gaining their Marksmen's badges; and to Didcott (87), M. Poole (87), N. Theunissen (86), D. Woodhead (86), N. Paverd (86), R. Brown (85) R, McLeod (85), D. G. Metcalfe (85), on becoming 1st Class Shots. We were 21st out of 80 Detachments in the Union in the Imperial Challenge Shield and 25th out of 50 Schools mentioned in the Honours List. Team No. 1 (75) gained Mass efficiency. Mr. W. T. Robbins has generously donated a very handsome silver trophy for competitive shooting. The trophy, a floating one, is in memory of his son, Lt. Derek Robbins, who was killed in action in Cyrenaica while piloting a plane. We appreciate this gift most sincerely and assure Mr. Robbins it will do a great deal towards promoting interest in shooting. This will be fired for on an Inter-House Basis with teams of four in each of the Under 13, 14, 15, 16-2- and Open Divisions, and the fiighest aggregate score will secure the trophy. Ages will be as from 1st October of each year. The Under 13, 14 and 15 will fire 10 shots deliberate and 10 shots with a time limit of 90 sees. Under 16i and Open will fire 10 shots deliberate and 10 shots in 90 sees., and a further 60 sec. shoot with no limit to the number of rounds fired. One point will be counted for every boy in ihe House, who, having fired not less than 10 practices in the year has an average of 70%. A spoon will be presented to the Highest scorer in each group. These spoons are being presented anonymoitsly. FIELD DAYS. 18th March—The main object was a lesson in maintaining com munications and the exercise fully illustrated the advantages. 2/Lieut. J. Davey and Sgt. I. Simmonds commanded the respective Forces and the first objective. Knoll A, resulted in Sgt. Simmonds' force scoring 242 point to the other's 1 14. The second objective, the Main Shongweni Road, proved an equally interesting exercise. 2/Lieut. Davey's force won by 159 points to 132. All Cadets were on manoeuvres from 10.00 hours until 17.15 hours. Both commands are to be congratulated on excellent preparations and conscientious work. 19th June—Night Patrol. Twelve flags were placed inside a defined perimeter which the defence guarded and the attack from two sides had to penetrate and attempt to capture the flags without being taken prisoner. The object was well illustrated and some of the disguises were most original. The attack won by 27 points to 19. C. O. M. A funny thing That boys in showers always like to sing. And much prefer battin' To Latin. 342
LOOKING BACK. 1930—Third Term. School Notes.—The School Is to be congratulated on winning the Stewart Shield final. The Empangeni Rail side was a powerful one and had considerable individual strength. During the |uly holidays the whole of the exterior of fhe college and most of the class-rooms were repainted. The tennis courts were also relaid and are in excellent order. Our thanks are due to the Darnall Mill who gave us two large drums of treacle to use on the courts. Athletic Sports. The Old Boys' 100 yards provided the sensation of the day. With an astonishing unanimity that seemed to suggest some sort of a secret arrangement beforehand, the ten competitors finished in a dead heat. The judge ordered them back to the starting post and this time Jackson was the first to breast the tape, some finishing almost in a fainting condition. Cross-country: O. W. M. Pearce, 20 mins. 52 sees. Record. 440 Open: E. N. Peppier, 57 4/5 sees. 220 Open: P. B. Duminy, 26 1 /5 sees. 100 Open: P. B. Duminy, 11 2/5 sees. Rugger. Team; L. Balcomb; P. Duminy, E. Peppier, A. M. Foss, P. Hind; j. Barratt (capt.), Q. Boast; H. Kruger, C. von Keyserlingk, 0. W. M. Pearce, L. Smith, L. Weir, ). C. Ellis, K. Jacques, J. Bertram. Also played: W. Mitchell, D. Nightingale, C. Putterill. V. Stanger, won 26—0. v. Old Boys, won 12—3. v. Empangeni Rail, won 1 6—0. Messrs. Medworth, Oram, Reece and Purdon played in the first and third games. 1930—Fourth Term. School Notes.—The term closed on December 9th with the pre sentation of prizes by Dr. C. T. Loram, who is at present Chief Inspector of Schools, but becomes Superintendent of Education in Natal at the beginning of next year. When the annual Carol Service was held on December 7th, the last Sunday of the term, a larger congregation than ever was present, every seat in the church being taken. The choir rose to the occasion and excelled even their previous efforts. The last evening of the term was celebrated with supper and deck games in the hall, and judging from fhe noise, everyone enjoyed himself immensely. At the conclusion of the competitions Dr. Loram kindly held the sack containing the prizes, while the successful ones came up to take a "lucky dip." Cricket. Cledhow 150 for 7 dec. {Mr. Matterson 5 for 41); Kearsney 208 for 6 (Mr. Purdon 1 13, Bertram 42 These two put on 135 before Mr. Purdon was dismissed). Won, 8 wickefs. Darnall 1 10 (Mr. Matterson 5 for 40, Mr. Reece 3 for 8). Kearsney 149 for 2 (Mr. Purdon 59, Mr. Medworth 33 not out). Won 8 wkts. Stanger 120 (Mr. Reece 5 for 10). Kearsney 67. Lost, 53 runs. Kearsney 128 for 6 dec. (Mr. Matterson 38 not out, Mr. Reece 33). Darnall 95. Won, 31 runs. Kearsney 200 for 6 dec. (Boast 49, von Keyserlingk 36 not out. Hind 32). Tech. "A" 130, and 35 (Pearce 7 for 15). Won, inn. and 35 runs. Cledhow 150 for 7 dec. (Mr. Medworth4 for 41). Kearsney 92 for 5 (Mr. Purdon 68 not out). Drawn. Darnall 71 (Mr. Reece 6 for 21). Kearsney 89. Won, 18 runs. 343
Kearsney 157 (von Keyserlingk 55) Eshcwe School 63 (Peppier 7 for 30). Won, 94 runs. Kearsney 1 17 for 8 dec. Stanger 77 (Mr. Medworth 4 for 16, Pearce 5 for 37). Won, 40 runs. THE SUMMER CAME. I have frequently read accounts by leading sportsmen of the most Interesting games they have watched or played in, and I feel that a few reminiscences of my own would not be out of place. For instance, can any of those present ever forget the memorable match between Little Pudlington and Slocomb-in-the-Slush ? The rival captains took the field. That is the correct way to start a description, though I have never yet discovered where they took it. The Pudlington captain, by a system of his own which incorporated a know ledge of log tables and a double-headed penny, won the toss. The Slocomb captain, born In Glasgow, claimed the coin as compensation, but his rival (born in Jerusalem) pointed out that the coin was not his own. Interviewed before the game, the Slocomb players would say nothing, except that they would win; the Pudllngtonians preferred not to express their views, except to say that they would not be the losers. Samuel Isaacstein, the Pudlington captain, opened the innings with his son, his grandson being umpire, and his father scorer. The Pudlingtonians had great faith in the latter as scorer, maintaining that the game was as good as won before it had begun. Sensations began at once. The Slocomb fast bowler's first ball hit a daisy root and bounced over the bowling screen, where it was caught by the Vicar: he caught it on the head. The next ball was off the wicket, but the square leg umpire was an ex-rugby International and by means of a quick sidestep he escaped unhurtw,hile the ball continued on its journey to the market square. Eight runs having been scored off the first two balls, the bats men were naturally feeling confident, and from the third ball Mr. Isaac stein made a sweeping hit to leg, but unfortunately he missed the ball. The wicket-keeper is still in hospital, but we are glad to state that the crack in the skull is mending nicely. By this time the spectators nad gnawed the handles off their umbrellas in their excitement, and several ladles fainted when the fourth ball broke the bat, smashed the leg stump, and made a hole in the bowling screen. Mr. Isaacstein was followed by the constable, ex-plumber, who followed him from force of habit, and who, on arriving at the wicket, was surprised and upset to find that he had left his bat behind. However, he managed to avoid the balls for the rest of the over. The other bowler was a left-hand googly, who could be relied upon to make full use of the ruts in the pitch made by the fast bowler's boots. Mr. Isaacstein, junior, was determined not to let the ball bounce, and leapt nimbly from his crease to hit it for six. By a slight error of judg ment he missed the ball and was easily stumped. The umpire, who hoped to borrow some money later, unfortunately gota small fly In his eye at that very moment, and was unable to give the batsman out. In no way disconcerted, Mr. Isaacstein kept his eye on the next ball during the whole of its progress; he found this so painful an eyedea that he resolutely shut his remaining eye for the next ball, and thought of his mother. The ball rose rather sharply, and the batsman was carried off on a stretcher. 344
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