KEARSNEY COLLEGE CHRONICLE r -s July 1968
Kearsney College Chronicle Vol.6 No.6 July 1968 EDITORIAL Every year a fresh generation of boys arrive at Kearsney, who find a ready-made school: its buildings, its masters, it way of life. But in a rapidly growing school, things are not as established as new boys might think. To those who have been at the school some time, the changes can be bewildering and difficult to adapt oneself to. In these circumstances, it is the new arrivals who to a large extent can help establish the traditions which the new conditions in the school demand. They can cope with the organic whole of the new school, for it is all new to them. Through them, a new building soon has patterns of behaviour associated with it; it has a sunny corner where boys can sit and lace their boots on their way to rugby, or prestigious positions for seats or beds which the boys covet. At Eton, the school was thrown into confusion when snowploughs cleared a path around a statue in a courtyard on the side opposite to the one used by boys for hundreds ofyears in passing the statue. So much a tradition do habits become. But traditions go deeper than patterns of movement; a whole code of behaviour, of thinking and attitudes, is implicit in the way of life of the community which a new boy joins. This ethos must also change as a school grows larger. An increase in numbers and buildings does not simply mean an enlargement of the way of life ofthe school; its social dynamics are radically altered. For example, where in a smaller Kearsney everyone knew everyone else, different factors control the formation of sub-groups and the emergence of an elite in the post-1963 Kearsney. In this period of consolidation which Kearsney is undergoing now, we are experiencing un consciously the growth ofnew traditions. What sort ofschool is the new Kearsney becoming? It is an exciting prospect, but everyone must be fully conscious of the newness of the challenge if we are to make the best of the opportunities that Kearsney offers today. 391
R.H. MATTERSON {A tribute delivered at the Memorial Service by Mr.J.H.Hopkins) Some forty-six years ago there arrived at the recently founded Kearsney College near Stanger, a new Headmaster, namely Mr. R. H. Matterson, M.A., to whom had been entrusted the grave responsibility of shaping the destiny of a school that had been opened only a short while before. True enough some of the buildings were there in the shape of Sir Liege Hulett's beautiful home, but there was little else. The handful of boys and the small staffformed the nucleus of the family of Kearsney, for that is just what the school became, with Mr. Matterson playing the role offather, rather than that ofthe traditional headmaster. Resources, both in material and finance, may have been lacking, but the human resources of faith, courage and determin ation were in abundance, and it was on these qualities alone that Mr. Matterson could rely in those early days. Undaunted by dis appointment and difficulties he accepted the challenge and reso lutely set out on his life's pilgrimage. As numbers gradually increased he gathered around him a band of loyal and dedicated men and women,some of whom, in spired by his example, were to serve Kearsney faithfully for the next twenty-five years and even longer. When in the early nineteen-thirties, it appeared that for reasons of finance, Kearsney would have to close, it was Mr. Matterson who pleaded with Synod to be given a final chance to save the school. If ever a man's faith was tested to its limit, it was at this critical stage in our history, but Mr. Matterson never wavered — it was his school and he was determined to save it. As it became increasingly evident that, situated as it was on a restricted site at Kearsney, the school could never expand and so develop into an economic unit, an alternative site was sought. Thanks to the wisdom and financial acumen of the late Mr. W.J. Williams and the late Mr. H.W.Haley and the generosity ofsuch men as the late Mr.Clement H.Stott and the late Mr.J.J. Crookes, Mr. Matterson's dream ofa new Kearsney College at Botha's Hill was gradually realised. It was a proud man indeed who opened his new school in July 1939 — marking the culmination of so many years of sacri fice and service. His final plans for the development of the school were again to be thwarted, however, with the outbreak of the Second World War,which was to restrict any expansion for several years. It was thus left to his successor, Mr. Stanley Osier, finally to implement his vision ofthe new Kearsney. And now this vital link with our early history has been severed in the passing ofa great Headmaster. Today we at Kearsney share the sorrow of Mr. Matterson's two daughters and their families, to 392
whom we offer our very sincere sympathy. We must not allow this sorrow to cloud our vision, however, so that we lose sight of our great blessings. To have known and worked with Mr. Matty is a privilege for which we thank God. His example is ever before us as a shining light to guide us and to inspire us to higher ideals. He will always remain part of Kearsney and its history. In endeavouring to pay tribute to such a man I am deeply conscious of my inadequacy, but I would like to mention just a few of the qualities which commanded people's respect and yet at the same time endeared Mr. Matty to all who knew him. I think of his sincerity — his whole life saw an expression in a practical way of his strong religious convictions, which were ever the driving force behind all his thoughts and actions. Not only did he love God and his Church but he loved his fellow men. His love was patient, it was kind and envied no-one; it was never selfish and not quick to take offence. His love kept no score ofwrongs,did not gloat over other men's sins, but delighted in the truth. I know offew men to whom St. Paul's words may be applied with greater sincerity, for he was in every way a fine Christian gentleman. He was kind, generous, warm-hearted and went out of his way to make strangers feel at ease,so that they were at home in his company. It was a strict personal rule that at least one tenth of his annual income should be given to charity — this generosity embraced all sections of the community. This Chapel represented for Mr. Matty the very soul of Kears ney; not only was he largely responsible for raising the funds to build it, but even after his retirement he remained Treasurer ofthe Chapel Committee, thus maintaining his keen interest until the end. There has been no more loyal supporter of Kearsney functions and sporting activities — he even knew many ofthe boys by name, although he was not in close touch with them. He spent his last day watching cricket on our Oval — a relaxation that he enjoyed more and more in his later years. His was a quiet, yet keen, sense of humour which won him many friends. Each time he visited the school he seemed to have a fresh fund of humorous stories and anecdotes, which he accom panied with a hearty chuckle which was so characteristic of him. Mr. Matty has left his indelible stamp on the life and traditions of Kearsney. The large number of Old Boys who remember him with such affection, bear testimony to the influence he exerted on them during their formative years. We, as Old Boys, owe a great debt of gratitude for the guidance and direction we received at his hands — it has stood us in good stead ever since. I wish to close by reading what was one of Mr. Matty's favour ite passages and one that he himself read with great dignity and 393
pride following the Roll of Honour at our last Remembrance Day Service. "Then said Mr. Valiant-For-Truth: 'I am going to my Father's; and though with great difficulty I am got thither, yet now I do not repent me ofthe trouble I have been at to arrive where I am. My sword I give to him that shall succeed me in my pilgrimage, and my courage and skill to him that can get it. My marks and scars I carry with me,to be a witness for me thatI havefought His battles,who now will be my rewarder.' "When the day that he must go hence was come, many ac companied him to the river side, into which as he went he said: 'Death,where is thy sting?'and as he went deeper, he said:'Grave, where is thy victory?' "So he passed over, and all the trumpets sounded for him on the other side." The trumpets have sounded on the other side and another pilgrim has completed his life's journey. I pray God that we may be given the courage and strength to accept the charge he lays upon us. SCHOOL NOTES Our past Headmaster, Mr. R. H. Matterson, whose life was so closely connected with the growth ofthe School, passed peacefully away in February. The School paid a splendid and moving tribute to him at a memorial service in the Chapel. We extend our sympathy to Mr.and Mrs. Burger on the death of Mrs. Burger's father. Mrs. Ireland was ill during the Christmas holidays, but man aged to put a cheerful face upon it for her picture which appeared in the newspapers, as she was the last, V.I.P., guest at the Berea Nursing Home. Mrs. Biggar has also been away ill, and we wel come both ladies back at the school. We welcome: Mr. Beresford, who has come to share the careers guidance work and teach some English; Mr. H. Sparks (Science) and Mr. S. Vaughan (Science); Mr. and Mrs. Tracey who have moved into Junior House, where Mrs. Tracey is the matron. Mr. Tracey is taking the Extra Woodwork classes, Mr. J. Viljoen spent six months with us, away from his fruit farm at Montague, helping out in the Afrikaans Department. We enjoyed his company,and he may be assured ofmany visitors from Kearsney at his farm! Mrs. Brosnihan was back for a term once more. We enjoyed having her with us, and hope she will continue to look us up. Mr. V. Calder is leaving us to take his well-earned retirement, and we wish him and Mrs. Calder every happiness. We hope to see them at the school and at the play reading circle that they have formed at Botha's Hill. 394
R. H. MATTERSON
IK f: j m h } V mtm r'l HASSAN — Slaves, Yasmln, Hassan Photo: J. Hewson
Two masters are taking study leave: Mr. G. Burger is going overseas on a study tour in the Fourth Quarter,and we wish him a successful trip. Mr. I. Gibson and family are going to the United States for a year, where Mr. Gibson is to study Guidance and Counselling at Cornell University. We wish them a happy and successful trip. Three masters have returned after a year's further study: Mr.D. Bovey, Mr.J. Hall and Mr.P. Reece. They have soon made their influence felt once more in those aspects ofschool life where their interests lie. Mr. D. Lewis-Williams was away for the first half-year, for three months on holiday overseas, followed by a term at the Leys School, Cambridge. We note that his arrival there was reported in the School Notes of our contemporary, the Leys Fortnightly, in juxtaposition with the news that their headmaster had acquired a new Boxer puppy . .. Mr. R. Whiteford has been touring Europe while on leave in the second quarter, and writes of a hectic but wonderful holiday during which he and his mother called on Mr. and Mrs. Oram. We offer our sincere congratulations to the following: Mr. and Mrs. de Beer,on their marriage. Mr. S. Ridge, still on study leave, on his engagement. Mr.and Mrs. Metcalf, on the birth ofa daughter. Mr. Alletson, on the publication of his book — the first produced by a master while at Kearsney. Mr.Jennings and Mr. Hewson,for being selected for (dare we say it?) the Natal Over-Thirties Cross-Country team; and to Mr. Jennings, for winning in record time the team's race against the Natal Schools' Team, in which we were represented by A.(Sandy) Milbank. Mr.D.Bovey, on passing his B.A.(Hons.). Tom Groom, on winning the 800 metres event at the S.A. Junior Championships. I. Cole and P. Gladman, on being selected for the Natal Schools hockey side to play in the inter-provincial tournament in July. Gladman has had the distinction of selections for the S.A. Schools Hockey side. J. Barrow, on being selected on merit to participate in the National Youth Science Week. Terry Martin, on winning the Boys' Doubles and Mixed Doubles titles, and being runner-up in the Boys' Singles, in the Natal Junior Table Tennis Championships. He will represent Natal at the S.A.Junior Championships. J. Stamp and P. Mason, on winning the first round of the E. G. Jansen Afrikaans Speech Competition, in which 395
they defeated several Afrikaans schools in the Pietermaritzburg District. J. Stamp has been chosen under the "Adopt a Lion"scheme to follow the fortunes on tour ofJock Turner, a centre in the British Lions Team. Stamp will write news to Turner's family about the tour. Everyone is working hard in preparation for the Grandstand Fete in August. At the end of June the fund already stood at approximately R5,ooo. Scholarships: Kearsney College Entrance Scholarship 1968: G. Cliff and B. H.Prosser. H.A. Koch Scholarship: S.J. Beningfield. APPOINTMENTS Head Prefect: B. L. Clarke School Prefects: B. L. Clarke (C), M. B. Booth (F), A. J. Grant (P),J. F. K. Sievers(J). House Prefects: Finningley: C. L. Campbell, S. C. Cerrish, T. R. Groom. Cilungham: N. C. Forbes, R. H. Lloyd,J. M. Moore. Pembroke: I. M. Endendyk, P. V. Mason,J. R. Stamp. Junior: D. A. Blackbeard, D. Osborne, A. E. Salm, R. Perks, R. M.Wade. Cricket Captain: R.Perks Swimming Captain: D. C.Prince Athletics Captain: T. R. Groom Rugby Captain: B. L. Clarke Hockey Captain: P. A. Cladman Tennis Captain: T. L. Martin Shooting Captain:J. F. K.Sievers Drum Major: A.J. Grant Prime Minister: J. R.Stamp EXAMINATION RESULTS NATAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE, MATRIC EXEMPTION Merit Pass: D. M. Abelson (English), J. B. Rickerton (P. Science), C. T, Burt (P,Science, Maths),S.J. Chappie, D.C.Coleman,G,W.Collard (English), K.A.R.Harris(P. Science),P. G.B.Irons,J.A.Joubert(P.Science, Maths, Add, Maths), R. Kirkpatrick (P. Science, Maths), N. F. E. Leitch (English, P. Science, Maths), E. Loubser, T. C. Makinson (P. Science, Maths, Add. Maths), M. G. W. McAlister, M. H. McGibbon (P. Science, Maths, Add. Maths), N.B, Meyerowitz(P. Science),B. D.R. Milstand,S. C.E. Murless, D. A. Peddie (P. Science), C. Phaff(P. Science, Maths), T, N. A. RivettCarnac(English,P.Science, Maths),T.E,Sommerville (English,P.Science, 396
Maths),D.Stevens(P.Science,Maths),G.W.Theunissen,R.M.A.WallaceTarry (English,P.Science, Maths),W.J. Wills(P. Science, Maths,History). Pass: G.J. Adendorff, M.J. Allnatt, A. G. Ashe, P. D. Brett, M.L. McLean> G.J. Cawood,D.J. Gudmanz,A.G.Hayes, R.L. Hemphill, R.E.Hender son, C. G. Holding, G. W.Hook, H. T. Howieson, R. R. Manicom, B. SMeth, M. Pampallis, D. W. Paterson, S. L. Paul, B. A. Pentecost, B. CPorter, P. W.Rolt, R.J. Russell, D. S. Scheepers, D. M.B. Scotcher,J. CSmith, R.J. Tindall, O. Toombs. NATAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE ("A" Level) S. M. Atlas, J. G. Baikie, B. C. Bannister, R. F. Duff-Richardson, P-J. WEarl, T. F. Feinauer, C. D. Ferguson, D. W.Foster, N. E. Herholdt, A.WJohnson, E. A. R. Karlsen, A. A. Knox, C. L. I.eibbrandt, M.H. Listerj P.J. Pallet, P.L.Rimbault, D.P.Robinson, M.J. Weingartz, R.F. Whitfeld, E.J. Hughes. NATAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE ("O" Level) C. P. Ashby,J. V. Balcomb,J. G. Bester, C. A. Carr, R. T. de Sa Pessoa, H. M. Fitzwilliam, C. D. Fry, B. C. G. Jackson, J. L. Liversage, T. T. Lloys-Ellis, G.D. Martin, D.C. Milbank, C.J. Mundell,J. M.Nightingale, W.T.Rake,G.N.Reeves, D.G.C. Richards, D.S. Roberts,B.M.Russell, G. B. Saunders, F. E. Shephard, C. J. Smallwood, K. Smeath-Thomas, R. J. Tessel, J. N. Trefusis-Paynter. M.H. Gibbon, a member of last year's Matric form, has been granted an A.F.S. scholarship to visit the United States in 1968/9. David Stevens,also oflast year's Matricform,has been awarded the Public Service Commission Scholarship of R500 to study Engineering at the University of Natal and P. R. L. Allen (1966) and T. N. Rivett-Carnac (1967) have been awarded Entrance Scholarships to the University of Natal. Ted Sommerville (1967) has been awarded an Entrance Scholarship to the University of Cape Town. T. N. Rivett-Carnac tied with a Westville student, achieving the highest marksfor an English essay in the Natal Senior Certificate examination. Both essays will be entered for the Queen Victoria Memorial Prize, competing with other schools throughout the Republic. MEMORIAL SERVICE MR.R. H. MATTERSON Kearsney chapel was packed to its capacity on February 26th as many came to bid a last farewell to that grant old gentleman "Mr. Mattie". Old and young from far and near gathered to praise God for his remarkable life. The service was marked throughout by a quiet confidence and note of triumphant victory. We were reminded constantly of one who had fought a good fight, who had finished his course and who had kept the faith, and all present felt convinced that the crown 397
of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, had laid up for that very day, had been handed over. Two fitting tributes were presented during the service. The Headmaster spoke on Mr. Matterson the Headmaster (reported elsewhere), and the Chairman ofthe District spoke on Mr. Matterson the churchman. This division was of course merely to prevent repetition for this was never a distinction made in the life of Mr. Matterson. For him the two were always inseparably united. As the hearse left the chapel it passed between twolong rows of Kearsney boys standing reverently and respectfully to attention and one could not help but feel that even "Mattie" himself would have approved. All who came to know him remember with proud thanksgiving the life of Mr. R. H. Matterson. Here surely was a man who had learnt to love his God and who showed that love in the practical service of his fellow men. ORDER OF SERVICE Opening Sentences: The Chaplain. Pall-bearers: G. M.Oram D. Clark H.E. Hopkins R.J. Crawford W.Dyson R. C. Best Hymn No. 12. "Praise My Soul, The King of Heaven" Ceremony by Sons ofEngland Prayers and Scripture Lessons: The Chaplain. Tributes: Headmaster and Rev. C. Wilkins (Chairman of the District) Prayers: Rev. C. Wilkins Hymn No.615."Guide Me,O Thou GreatJehovah" Benediction: Pall-bearers: C.S. Meyer R.Strudwick A. P. Meyer G.Nel R.A. Meyer G.E.Burger CHAPEL NOTES VoLUNTARY prayerasfter evening 'prep' continue to attract a large number ofboys. Prayers on Mondays have been led by various members of Staff whereas on Wednesdays the boys themselves have taken over complete responsibility. A recent request from the boys has resulted in holding prayers on Tuesdays as well as they have found these times in the Chapel helpful and meaningful. During 1967 six boys attended the Modderpoort School Leavers Conference organised under the auspices of the Private Church Schools and a further three attended a similar conference at the beginning of 1968. These boys have formed the nucleus of a Sixth 398
Form Discussion Group which meets in the Chaplain's home after Sunday evening worship. The experience of the Conferences with the opportunity of encountering each other as well as those from other schools made way for 'The Great Encounter' to take place. The group contains a good number who are growing increasingly aware of the relevance of the Christian way of life and its impli cations for their future. The Guild continues to draw a large number of members. Emphasis has been placed in the meetings on greater participation by each Guilder, instead of a succession of outside speakers, as well as opportunities for real social service. Groups of boys have visited Clermont over week-ends to participate in a building pro ject under the auspices of the Service club, Lions International. A home is being built for an African widow and her eight children. This project plus work group at our Botha's Hill Camp Site have provided the Guilders with avenues for Christian service. Kearsney Guilders and senior boys from the Church Youth group at Indaleni have met together on two occasions. The first gathering took place at Indaleni and a reciprocal visit was made to Kearsney. As they have been involved in discussion about common interests and problems they have discovered each other as persons. For many it has been a startling experience to discover that the other person, despite the difference in skin pigmentation, is basically not different from himself. These sessions of study together have been of great value and have reaffirmed the Gospel message of the possibility of reconciliation in Christ. The Guild serviceh,eld earlier this term, showed once more what young people can do if only given the opportunity and some encouragement. ChiefJustice Holmes spoke of this present gener ation of young people as desiring to 'play a role in the action and passion of their times'. We must allow more opportunity for their participation. A.R.J. HASSAN by James Elroy Flecker The presentation of a play like Flecker's Hassan is no easy undertaking. The producer has to transport his audience into the Eighth Century world ofHaroun al Raschid, the Caliph ofBagdad, who appears here as he does in the Arabian Nights with Jafar, his Vizier and Masrur, his executioner. He has to infuse life into a play that is often static, he has to overcome many technical prob lems; he has to put across to his audience the magic and beauty of Flecker's prose and poetry. This is a formidable task for professionals, let alone those in volved in a school production, with a cast that is very young and 399
that (probably In the vast majority of cases) has had no previous stage experience.The fact that we could sit through this production without any sense of tedium, and that we thoroughly enjoyed it, is an indication of the great measure of success achieved by Mr. Hofmeyr, his actors and his stage crew. Naturally, the production had its faults: poor positioning of actors, as in Rafi's cell scene, where the two guards obscured him to part of the audience; frequent inaudibility (serious in a play such as this); technical inconsistency as in the haulage system into Rafi's house; shaky sets; off-hand persons in minor roles. Such shortcomings are to be found in most school productions, but they must not be excused simply because it does happen to be a school play. S.G. CAST (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE) Hassan,a Confectioner:Jeremy Solnick Selim,a vulgar young friend: Derek Levy Yasmin, a young widow: Wendy Sparks Porter: Andrew Trytiman The Caliph: Andrew Salm Jafar, the Vizier: Peter Scully IsHAK, the Court Poet: Peter Davidson Masrur,the Executioner: Alewyn Zoutendijk Rafi: Edwin Barrow Ai.der, a slave: Andrew Trytsman Willow,a slave:James Wood Juniper,a slave: Glyn Meth Tamarisk,a salve: Robert Craven The Leader of the Beggars: Richard Theunissen Dancing Girls: Penelope Celliers, Diane Murray, Colleen Philips Ali,a loiterer: Julian Hitchcock Abdu,a loiterer: Lawrence Watt Chief of Police: Michael Booth Captain of Military: Barry Clarke Bearers: Gerrit Wessels and Wayne Rosenberg Herald:Robert Lloyd Pervaneli: Mrs.PatJennings Prince of Basra: Arthur Liversage Prince of Damascus: Christopher Thorpe Turkoman Wrestler: Wayne Rosenberg Caliph's Jester:Jeremy Earl Rajah: Peter Williamson Hang Won:Lawrence Watt Ambassador:Julian Hitchcock Wandering Dervish: David Jollands Court Messenger: Peter Braadvedt Court Tailor: Peter Goldman Fountain Ghost: Clive Wootton Master of Caravan:Michael Booth Draper:Richard Theunissen Grocer:Julian Hitchcock Principal Jew:Lawrence Watt Old Man: Peter Goldman Watchman: Robert Lloyd Woman:Glyn Meth 400
Opening Chorus: Solos: Peter Davidson, James Wood, Matthew Shum. Additional: Donald Fletcher-Evans. Beggars of Bagdad: Jeremy Earl, Timothy La Fontaine, Arthur Liversage, David Jollands, Robert Lloyd, Christopher Thorpe, Peter Williamson, Murray Donaldson, Alan Gold,Jeremy Wallace-Tarry, Clive Wootton. Police: Paul Cole, Flenry Pipkin, Michael King, Peter Roseveare. Warriors Chorus: Michael Shannon, Richard Theunissen, Kevin Ashe, Denis Laws, Timothy La Fontaine, David Venter, Alan Gold, Jeremy WallaceTarry, Clive Wootton, Gary Pearson, Edward Coltart, Kevin Clark. Torturers: Michael Shannon, Timothy La Fontaine, Wayne Rosenberg, Gerrit Wessels, Michael King, Murray Donaldson, Peter VVilliamson, Gary Pearson, Jeremy Earl, Robert Lloyd. Set designed and made by: P. E. Metcalf and R. C. Best Properties made by R.C. Best Lighting by P. E. Metcalf, assisted by Chris Milbank Stage Management by P.J.Reece, assisted by N.van Niekerk,B.Harris,J. Kramer, G. Weddell, G. Larsen, G. Schachat and O. A. Stueland. Costumes by Mrs. A. Burger, assisted by Mrs, F.JcflVeys, Miss F, Balcomb, Mrs, P. Milbank, Mrs. I. Harper, and Mrs. P. Arbous Front ofHouse: P. E. Metcalf and Mrs.P. Milbank. Prompt: Alan Rycroft Sound: H.C. Best Make-up K.Clark, assisted by J. Corbishley, I. Duncum,H. Carter, C. Kingston, J. Martin, A. Wilson, R. Lloyd. Programme Design: Miss Judy Reece Directed by: R.Hofrneyr. We are also much indebted to Miss E. Keegan of Klooffor her assistance in the dancing sequences. We would express our special thanks to the Natal Schools Theatres Organization and to the Anglo-Persian Carpet Co. MUSIC NOTES Recitals On March loth, John and Mavis Hawkins presented a most pleasant hour of operatic arias ranging from Handel to Puccini. The recital was heard by a large audience who thoroughly enjoyed hearing the various styles of operatic solos and duets of the last two centuries. The accompanist was John Harper. We are indeed grateful to visiting artists who give of their time and talents to come and entertain us. oOo On June 2nd,a programme of piano music by Chopin was played by John Harper while contrasting items were played by Mr. E. Jacomb (oboe). It was a dreadfully cold night for any musical performances — both for performers and listeners, but a moderate sized audience braved the conditions and evidently enjoyed the music as well as being intrigued by the intricacies of the oboe and cor anglais demonstrated so skilfully by Mr.Jacomb who trained at Kneller 401
Hall and who has played in major orchestras in England and South Africa. Waltzes in A fiat and E minor. Chopin, Polonaise in C sharp minor. Chopin. Oboe Concerto in D. Alhinoni. Chansonette. Hamilton-Harty. Preludes in C minor and C sharp minor. Chopin, Studies in A flat and G flat. Chopin. Oboe Concertino. Volhnar Andreae. Le Cygne. Saint-Saens, Nocturne in C sharp minor. Chopin, Impromptue in A fiat. Chopin, Organ Recitals Organ Recitals in the first half of this year have been given by John Harper, and details arc given below: March 3i8t Trumpet Voluntary.John Bennett, Trumpet Voluntary.Jeremiah Clarke, Prelude and fugue in G minor.J.S. Bach, Gavotte. Matthew Camidge. Concerto Movement. T. Dupuis. Sonata No.2 in C minor. Mendelssohn, Ave Maria von Arcadelt. F. Liszt, 'I'occata, E, Gigout. May I2th Cornett Voluntary.John Travers. Trumpet Tune and Air. Henry Purcell. Pastorale. Samuel Wesley, Fantasia in G.J. S. Bach, Sonata No.3 in A major. Mendelssohn, Introitus.F,Liszt. Cantilena (Sonata No. 11). J. Rheinberger, Sarabande for the Morning of Easter, H. Howells, Toccata Primi Toni. E.Sark, June 23rd Fanfare. Guy Eldridge, Introduction and Trumpet Tune. Maurice Greene. Prelude and Fugue in D.J,S. Bach, Sonata No.4 in B flat. Mendelssohn, Piece. Hcroique. Cesar,Frank. To a Wild Rose. E. MacDowell. Scherzino:"the Squirrel". Powell Weaver, Trauerode.F. Liszt. Intermezzo and Processional. Arthur Wills, Those interested should note that all Organ Recitals arc given in the School Chapel on SUNDAYS at 4.45 p.m. Chapel Choir This year the choir is again well up to strength in the Treble department and, as usual, woefully short of tenors and basses — as 40a
the school becomes larger the numbers of seniors volunteering for choir work diminishes and at the present rate future choirs seem likely to consist oftrebles only. However, a number of anthems have been rehearsed and performed in the limited time available, and a notable item was the extended anthem A Procession ofPalms by Malcolm Williamson — an excursion into modern church music — performed on Passion Sunday when the Chapel Choir was augmented by members of the Staff Choir. The Choirs are also busy rehearsing for occasions in the second half of the year (anthems and the Faure Requiem) and next term will see the customary and necessarily early start on music for the Carol Services at the end of the school year. Staflf Choir Numbers are still well up and rehearsals continue each Tuesday — when the hundred and one duties and activities around the school permit attendance! At present a programme of light music and also the Faure Requiem are being rehearsed and it is hoped to present the music later in the year. Forthcoming Musical Events An Orchestral Concert, to be given by the Pietermaritzburg Philharmonic Society, conductor John Knuyt, is being arranged for a Saturday in mid-August, and the second of the two termly Organ Recitals in the third term will be given by organ students of the school. Carol Services will be given in the School Chapel on December 6th and 8th and other Recitals are being arranged and will be notified to those interested in due course. J.M.H. LIBRARY Anew system for the issuing of books was introduced late in the first term. Under the unflagging supervision of Mr. Balcomb, this system is proving effective in encouraging proper use ofthe library, and in keeping a check on overdue and lost books. We can with certainty say that the library has never been used so much before.Injuly,1962,the Chronicle reported that"Thelibrary is becoming increasingly well-used". In that year, the library issued 510 books in the second term. Six years later, with the school en rolment not much larger, the number of books issued in the second term has more than trebled to 1,627. 403
ANALYSIS OF ISSUE OF BOOKS SECOND TERM 1968 English fiction .. .. 865 Afrikaans books .. .. 406 English non-fiction .. 356 Total 1627 Form I 132 II 348 III 40Q IV 325 V 309 VI 75 StafT 29 Total 1627 E.R.J. KEARSNEY PARLIAMENT 1968 Speakers Clerk Prime Minister Leader of Opposition Publicity Officer Government Education, Arts and Science, Informa tion, Posts and Telegraphs .. Foreign Affairs, Immigration Bantu Administration and Develop ment, Bantu Education, Indian Affairs Forestry, Tourism, Sport and Recre ation, Health Defence Transport, Labour, Coloured Affairs.. Mines and Planning, Community De velopment, Public Works, Social Welfare and Pensions .. Agriculture and Water Affairs Justice, Prisons, Police .. Finance, Economic Affairs .. Interior, South-West Africa Opposition Deputy Leader E. R.Jenkins D. Lewis-Williams R. Philips J. Stamp M.Booth J. Barrow H.Best J. Barrow K. Clark I. Endendyk P. Goldman A.Grant H.Lloyd C.Roach P. Scully G.N.Smith J. Solnick G.Schachat R.Back N.Blampied H.Carter B. Clarke B. Harris Jammerdrif Ladysmith Potchefstroom Silverton Buffalo Bay Bluff Bellville Bluff Cato Manor Ermelo Gobabis Grootfontein Langebaan Randfontein Sezela Stellenbosch Sappersrus Sterkfontein Brits Bloemfontein Colesberg Compensation Harrismith 404
H.Jakubowicz Johannesburg B.Jones Janscnville T. Mathews Moddcrfontein J. Wood Woodlands M.Yolland Ysterplaats and 55 Cross Benchers PROGRAMME February 24th Motion of No Confidence in the Government. Motion won. March 8th .. Opposition Motion; "That the Government is not doing enough to conserve South Africa's natural resources". Motion won. March 22nd .. Government Motion:"That in view of the recent favourable decision of the I.O.C., this House has full confidence in the Government's new sports policy." Motion won. May 10th .. .. Cross-bench motion: "That the United Nations should he abolished." Motion won. May 31st .. Opposition Motion:"That Government's policy of separate development is seriously retarding the country's economic progress." Motion won. June 2ist .. .. Opposition Motion:"That the present emphasis on defence is misplaced inasmuch as the training provided is not com prehensive enough." Motion won. Debates this year have been spirited, with some good contributions from new members. Mr.Jenkinhsas acted as Speaker in the absence of Mr. Lewis-Williams, who, as successor in this post to Mr. Recce, will be assuming office in the Third Quarter. E.R.J. JUNIOR DEBATING SOCIETY The first meeting of the Society was held on February gth, and was one of inauguration during which the committee, A. Smith {Secretary), M. Jollands {Public Relations Officer) and J. Morison {Additional Committee Member) were elected. The next meeting was held on February 23, and themotion "The illegal regime of Mr. Smith should be toppled by the im mediate use offorce by Britain with the assurance by South Africa that she will in no way interfere" was proposed by Messrs. Prosser and Cliff who defeated the opposers, Messrs. Lurie and Sack. An inter-school meeting with Hilton was held at Kearsney on March 8th. The Hilton team proposed the motion "Man is not civilized" and a Kearsney team comprising Messrs. Prosser, Shum and Henzi opposed. The debate was won by Kearsney with 180 points to the 168 points of Hilton. An internal debate was held on February 22nd and Messrs. Fliovson and Simon were defeated by Messrs. Craven and Jollands in proposing that "Capital punishment should be abolished".' During the following internal debate on May 12th, Messrs. Coleman and Mason proposed that "Modern youth waste their 405
leisure time*'. Messrs. Morison and Stein were defeated in opposing the motion. The last internal debate of the second quarter was held on May 28th. Messrs. Smith and Prosser proposed that "Entertain ment films and eomic books should be banned". Messrs. Tessel and Cliff opposed the motion which was won by the proposers. A second debate against Hilton was held at Hilton on June 21st. The Kearsney team, Messrs. Prosser, Smith and Shum, proposed that"He little knows ofSouth Afriea who only South Africa knows". The debate was won by the Kearsney team. A.D.Smith INTER-SCHOOL DEBATES The team this year is: Vlth Form: J. R. Stamp (Captain) Vth Form: G.Schachat IVth Form: H. Carter The team won the first round of the Junior Chamber Competition against Westville Boys' High School. The next debate, against Pinetown Convent,occurred in an atmosphere ofcrisis: at 4.45 p.m. on the day of the debate Schachat was injured in a rugby match and carried off to the San. H. Best was called in to take his place, and Stamp spent the time before the debate preparing him to make the third speech, in which he would have to sum up and comment on the other side's argument. Stamp took over Schachat's speech, although he had practically no time to prepare it. In spite of this handicap, the team won the debate and Stamp wasjudged the Best Speaker ofthe evening. A commendable achievement,and we wish the team success in the final round against Westville Girls' High in August. E.R.J. OVERSEAS TOUR 1967-68 The departure lounge of Jan Smuts Airport is packed as thirty-three boys assemble prior to departing on the Kearsney College Overseas Tour. Many relations,friends and well-wishers are bidding farewell. At last, with all on board, the jet engines spring to life, and then, as we sink back into our seats, we realise the tour has become a reality. Weclimb over the twinkling lights ofJohannesburg, but it is hot in the aircraft and sleep evades most of us. Early next morning, approaching Lisbon airport,we are told to prepare for temperatures below freezing point. We commence our visit to Lisbon with a drive through the city and visit the Estufia Fria, the winter gardens where tropical plants grow under a 4,000 square yard roof of slatted wood. Then on to Estoril, the Portuguese Riviera, for a fine lunch. We return via the old-world town of Sintra and the Palace of Gueluse. That night the clanging of fire engines sendmany of us a mile down the main 406
street to witness the fgi hting of a fire which guts a cinema. We visit the Henry the Navigator Monument, the Tower of Belem, St. Jeromes Monastery and the Coach Museum, all situated on the Tagus. We cross the stately Salazar bridge to visit the 450 ft. Monument to Christ the King,from which one gets a panoramic view of the Tagus Estuary, the harbour and Lisbon. We continue southwards to the quaint fishing villages of Sesimbra and Setubel, visiting two Moorish castles en route. On to Madrid by air. We visit the Valley of the Fallen in the Guardarama Mountains to the west of Madrid. The gigantic cross, rising goo feet above the Esplanade, is most im pressive. The rock on which it stands has been hewn out to contain a crypt with its High Altar standing directly beneath the cross. Behind is a Monastery. We visit the nearby Monastery at El Estorial, in which the Kings and Queens of Spain lie buried. Next day we visit Toledo,famous for its steel, its Cathedral and as the home of El Greco, the Greek artist. Back to Madrid to visit the Royal Palace, undoubtedly the finest preserved of royal palaces and 3^ times the size ofBuckingham Palace. We dine at a typical Spanish restaurant, listen to Spanish music and are introduced to Flamenco dancing, but unfortunately we arrive a week too late for bull-fighting. We fly over the snow-covered Cantabrian mountains to Paris, with its land mark the Eiffel Tower. We visit the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees, Concordesquare,Notre Dame Cathedral,Napoleon'sTomb in the Place Invalides, and the Louvre with its art treasures, the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory and the Venus de Milo. We dine at a typical Parisian Cafe, the Mere Kathrine, and encouraged by the musicians we have a sing-song. Songs range from Sarie Marais to Yellow Submarines and Zorba. We move to the Lido where, sipping French champagne, we watch the magnificent floor-show. We drive to Versailles to visit the Palace ofthe Kings, but the bitter cold and rain rather dampen our spirits. Our evening flight affords us a birds-eye view of the lights of London. We make an early start the following day to visit the Ford Car Factory at Dagenham, but London traffic restricts our progress and our visit must be cut short. We pay our respects at the South African Embassy and have the honour of meeting Dr. Luttig, the South African Ambassador. We visit Trafalgar square, St. Paul's Cathedral, The Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and the changing of the Guard, Windsor Castle, Eton and Oxford. Christmas Dinner at the Overseas Visitors Club, the Christmas Panto mime,"The Mouse Trap", and the revue, the "Big Bad Rat" and, of course, T.V. We visit Petticoat Lane, the Science Museum and Madame Tussaud's Waxworks. So life-like are the wax figures that one was addressed by one of the boys. He was surprised to receive no answer! Highlight of the visit is, no doubt, Carnaby Street, While the visit produced a variety of colourful clothes, I fear it led to financial embarrassment later in the tour. Descending to land at below sea level Schipol Airport, Amsterdam, we are reminded of Holland's continual fight against the sea, for the land is criss-crossed by drainage canals. We undertake a sight-seeing tour of Amsterdam and the docks by canal. We visit the Flower Market at Aalsmeer, a pottery at Delft, and a clog factory. Rotterdam, the greatest harbour in the world, is in contrast to Amsterdam,a'new'city,for its modern roads,underground railway and skyscrapers bear testimony to the fact that it was almost completely destroyed during the war. In the Hague we stop at the Peace Palace, seat of the International Law Court. We visit the villages of Marken and Volendam where typical Dutch costumes are still worn. We drive northwards to the Afsluitduik, the dyke enclosing the largest reclamation scheme in the world, in which 600,000 acres have been reclaimed. We visit an Indonesian Restaurant to sample 'rystafel', an Eastern dish of rice to which is added a variety of spicy sauces. And so, with Gabriel at the wheel of the luxury bus which will take us as far south as Naples, we take to the Autobahn. We pause briefly at the War Cemetery in Arnheim.Despite heavy mist we sense the industrial activity as we pass through the 'forest' ofchimneys in the Ruhr. We arrive at Cologne as the sun sets, but we manage a short visit to the famous Cathedral. Its Gothic spires rise to 530 feet 407
and while rather bleak within, the exterior is magnificent. The fact that it survived the war is considered a miracle. Bomb damage can be seen, and on many walls in many German towns bullet holes remind us of the war. On the western side of the Rhine, we move southwards through Bonn and into the Gorge. We are immediately struck by the many bridges across the Rhine, the Medieval Castles perched on almost every hilltop, the large traffic, and they say that every available piece ofland is utilized. We pass Lorelei Rock and watch in vain for the Mermaid! Impressive as this area is in winter, it must be beautiful in summer. We encounter snow near Mainz, where we lunch, then we cross the Rhine and travel through snow to Nurenburg, scene of many war crime trials. We see the New Year in amid a display of fireworks. We continue to Munich where we lunch in a res taurant opposite a beerhall often visited by Hitler. For lunch we have frankfurters and sauerkraut! As we move into the mountains the snow becomes so deep that snow ploughs are a common sight on the roads. The mountains become more majestic as we negotiate the Zirl Pass and drop into the Inn valley. We spend the night at Innsbruck and reach Westendorf before lunch. For one wonderful week we relax in this delightful Austrian village nestling in the mountains. Many of us master the art of skiing, some of us don't. Many ofus skim across the snow with the greatest ofspeed, some crash with the greatest of case. The scenery is magnificent and while the falling snow is an experience to remember, we wish for sunshine. We try our hand at tobogganing and find cause for much hilarity. All too soon the week is over and we must move on. Returning to Innsbruck we cross the Alps via the Brennar Pass. We travel through the Dolomite Mountains and although the visibility is poor we appreciate why they arc considered the most beautiful mountains in the world. At Cortina we are introduced to Italian spaghetti. On the outskirts of Venice we leave our bus and take a waterbus to St. Marks Square. Venice, suffering from one of its coldest spells in history, is gloomy. Gondoliers refuse to brave the elements. It is snowing when we visit St. Marks Square, but we feed the pigeons and visit the Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge. We take a water taxi to the Venetian glassworks to see how this famous glassware is made. We are not sorry to move on, hoping for warmer weather further south. The North Italian Plain is a blanket of white as are the Apennines which we climb on the Autostrada del Sole. On this motorway one spends much time either in tunnels or on ridges. Florence is no warmer, but we visit the Michaelangelo Square from which we get a panoramic view ofthe Arno river, the Ponte Vecchio and the city. We visit the Baptistry, the Cathedral and Belltower, the Medicee Chapel, Michaclangelo's David and Art Galleries. The level to which the waters of the river rose during the floods is clearly visible on buildings and on paintings. Restoration is a mammoth task. Our visit to Assisi is called off owing to the ice on the road, so we continue on the Autostrada del Sole to the Eternal City, Rome,where the old and the new blend so well. En route restaurants and shopping centres span the highway and arc easily accessible to both streams of traffic. From afar the dome of St. Peters can be seen. Passing the Olympic Village we reach our hotel near the Vatican City. Our visit to the Vatican with its library. Art Gallery, Sistine Chapel and sculptures is all too short. St. Peters too, the largest church in the world, with its mossaic cupula and Michaclangelo's Pieta, cannotbe adequately seen in a few hours. We are fortunate to visit the square to hear the Pope address the people. Our visit to Rome includes the Victor Emmanuel Monument, Michaclangelo's Moses, St. Paul's Outside the Wall, the Ancient Forum and the Colosseum, the Catacombs and the Pantheon, largest dome in the world. It is strange that this dome, built in the year 27 B.C. has not been bettered in this age of modern building techniques. Fountains,squares and obelisks abound in Rome,but Trevi fountain has a special significance and we toss a coin or two in. On the outskirts ofRome we visit the beautiful fountains ofthe Villa d'Este in Tivoli and Hadrians Villa, but the cold spell hasfrozen many ofthe fountains and the pools at Hadrians Villa. Little wonder that the Romans made use ofinterior heating! 408
Continuing southwards on the Autostrada we pass Monte Cassino, scene of one of the bloodiest battles of the last war. Some distance from Naples Mount Vesuvius comes into view. We visit the ruins of Pompeii and on our return to Naples we call at a cameo factory. It is wash-day in Naples, wash lines strung between buildings and washing outside almost every window, obvious proof. Next day we rise early to take the ferry across the beautiful Bay of Naples to the island of Capri, where many film stars have Villas. A nerve-racking trip in dilapi dated local taxis takes us up the windy road to the top of the rocky island,from which point one has a panoramic view of the Bay, Naples, Vesuvius, Sorrento and part of the Amalfi coast. The blue waters of the Mediterranean lure some of the boys to take a dip in their underpants. After a drive to Sorrento, we return to Rome to make our flight to Athens. We arrive in Athens in the teeming rain which rather spoils our visit. We visit the Archeological Museum,rich in art treasures, including exhibits recently excavated at Mycenae and dating to the 15th and i6th Century B.C. We visit the Stadium, the Acropolis, the Parthenon and the Odeon Theatre. We dine at a Greek restaurant, then prepare for our departure at 2.10 a.m. The tour has come to an end, but we are happy at the thought of a happy reunion with our families and friends. R.D.B. CHESS CLUB A DECLINE in membership has been more than offset by the ability and enthusiasm ofthe players. Our teams,junior and senior, are doing very well in the inter-schools tournament organised by the Pietermaritzburg City Chess Club. The junior team is lying first with 9 points out of a possible 12, and the senior team is second in its section with 5^ points out ofa possible 8. Most of the games have been keenly contested and our teams have received many compliments on their behaviour and sports manship. D.B. PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY Despite the waxing and waning of interest which reflects the comparative calm of the first few weeks of term, or the crisis of imminent examinations, we have had an encouraging attendance at meetings and an active nucleus of members using the darkroom. From the prize money won in the Natal Inter-Schools Photo graphic Competition last year we have been able to equip the darkroom very adequately for developing, enlarging and print finishing, and purchase a slide projector, screen and various accessories for use during our meetings. These have already been much in demand. In our meetings this year it has been gratifying to have Com mittee members taking a far more active part than before. We have had practical demonstrations of film developing and enlarging 409
primarily for the benefit ofjunior members, and a highly enter taining panel discussion of members' prints. As visiting speakers we have had Mr.Dennis Cleaver, who gave us an entertaining glimpse of the sustained hard work that belies the glamour of industrial photography; and Miss Godbold, whose fine pictures ofthe Drakensberg, taken on many climbs and hikes, were of great interest both to our photographers and members of the Exploration Society who attended. We thank them for coming and greatly enjoyed their visits. J.A.H. MOTOR CLUB WELcoME to all new members ofthe Club including a new member ofstaff, Mr. Vaughan,whose interests lie in Citroens and Peugeots. He has given many members the opportunity of finding out how Citroens work. Our thanks go to Mr.Harvey for his donation ofa 1935 Chev rolet to the Club. This car is too big to fit into our workshop and the space outside the workshop is used. Wessels has been placed in charge of work on the Chev. The woodwork on the M.C. is almost complete and we hope to have it ready by speech day. Mr. Whiteford's Wolseley, which the club rebuilt more than three years ago, is still giving faithful service, and still catches the eyes ofmany. M.M. EXPLORATION SOCIETY The year began with the sale to members of 150 copies of the Exploration SocietyJournal which forms a record oflast year's activities. As well as the trips which are described below, we have held two slide shows, one given by Mr. B. Beck on "Mountain Trails", and one by members who showed some excellent pictures of Society outing. SENIOR HIKE We started the Society with a hike up the Sani Pass in 1959 and were so clapped by the time we arrived at Mokhotlong that we decided to come back by Bill Bright's jeep. History repeats itself. Although they have straightened out many of the kinks up the pass and have graded the road as much as possible, it is still a mammoth task to hike up with your 30 lb. kit bag. We tried that after 4 p.m. this time and we stragglers arrived at the police post on topjust on 7, in the dark, muttering and near dropping. 410
We were very fortunate in that Michael Hipkin, who lives fairly close to Himeville, was able to take us up to the S.A.P. post just 2 miles from the top. Had this not been kindly arranged, the trip would have stopped before it really got started. Our party consisted of three from Kearsney, and three from Thomas More, which made a very workable unit. Albert Storm,Peter Hirsch and I had one tent while Robert Maclntyre, David Bunn and Neil Christensen from Thomas More shared the other. We left just after the rain, so it was not surprising when the R.M.T. Pullman was stuck outside Impendhle. Crawler tractors pulled us out and set the seal on the hike. We slithered up the pass in Michael's Toyota truck when others said he would not get anywhere near the police post, and we hired two road makers in the dark ofevening to carry some ofour ruc-sacks up the last 2,000 feet. It's no fun clawing 3,000 ft. skywards in just 2 miles. The chalet up on top compensated however for all the hardship. The original hikers might be interested to know that Victor, who helped us out by taking our kit up on that first trip we made, is manager ofthe chalet in Lesotho.To eat warm food, to sleep warm under blankets, away from the howling wind — that is the Chalet. To sleep on a hillside, to freeze slowly from the toes up,to bruise one's hip-bone — to lie awake wondering why the ... we ever came — that is the first night's camp away from the Chalet! What a wasted day it was too. The mist was heavy and our plan to walk along the escarpment rather than go inland to the mule track, misfired. I have never before walked in circles, and would not have believed it possible had we not done it twice that first day. The sight of Natal under a heavy layer of cloud, swirling mist eddies, and precipitous free-falls of theescarpment, made up somewhat for the miserable day. Our second day dawned fine and clear and we made the trip to the top of the highest point south of Kilimanjaro, Thabana Ntlenyana, 11,428 ft., by mid-afternoon. We had broken off our journey to look down into the massive Umkomaas valley from the head of the Sehonghong valley where the two river systems almost meet. In our four trips to the top, this was the first time that we had ever taken up our ruc-sacks with us,so we celebrated by brewing tea with melted snow,right on top; sorry coffee — not tea. From the top we dropped down into the Mokhotlong river valley and having been delayed on our first day, we had to make a 21-mile hike of this last leg. What a trudge that was. The road dropped down too soon for my liking, for I have proved that what goes down, must come up. We could see the approximate height of Mokhotlong and that didn't help any when one was walking through the mealie fields. We found once again however, the delightful friendliness of the local folk, who would go out of their way to show us the right route, their school/mission church and 411
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