s.- KEARSNEY COLLEGE CHRONICLE 5. July 1970 w' ■M ■'■■■'Mi''
Kearsney College Chronicle Vol.6 No. 10 July, 1970 Editor: E. R.Jenkins Old Boys' Section: P. E. Metcalf EDITORIAL In order to justify its existence, a private school should have a fairly clear idea of what it has to offer that the state educational system does not. The aims of a school such as Kearsney are necessarily fairly complex, but those who direct the school must have a welldefined sense of priorities, even if not everyone connected with the school has the same priorities. Earlier this year, a member of the school's board of governors no doubt had in mind the different requirements ofchurch, parents and society at large, when he told the school that Kearsney's aims are (i) to prepare boys to pass pub lic examinations,(2) to develop in them a Christian character, and (3) to prepare them to take their place in society and be aware of their obligations to society. How far, in practice, does Kearsney differ from a secular school? This may be looked at in two ways;(a) What it offers that a secular school does not, and {b) what it specifically does not have that a secular school does. Take religion,for example.Kearsney boys might be surprised to realise that a boarder in a government school also has to attend a religious assembly every morning and services on Sunday, and has a scripture lesson once a week. On the forbidden side, the old characteristic non-conformist sabbath is no more at Kearsney. School sport teams now hold team practices and compete in inter-school events on Sundays. In outward observance, there is little to distinguish the church school. There are certain forms and rituals maintained at Kearsney that are increasingly rare in state education here or elsewhere in the world. But they are rather the nineteenth century traditions of the English public school than anything specifically Christian. Kearsney is a school for boys only, and is predominantly a boarding school. The masters wear gowns (nowadays only if it is too cold for safari suits-0 tempora, 0 moresl), heads of houses administer, corporal punishment,juniors fag,and the ist XV,as they trot onto the rugby field,ritually touch the school flag(they used to touch a teddy bear). But this is being frivolous. To quote these superficialities is simply to show where the true difference lies. It is something far less tan gible; it is in the spirit ofthe school and the spirit oftbe upbringing that the boys receive here. This is Kearsney's true worth, and we cherish it. 643
STAFF Headmaster Mr.J. H. Hopkins, M.A.(South Africa), U.E.D.(Natal). Vice-Principal Mr. R.J. Crawford, B.A., S.T.D.(Cape Town). Chaplain Rev. D. Buwalda,B.A.(Rhodes). Staff Mr.J. Storm, B.A., S.T.D.(Stellenbosch). Mr. R. C. Best, B.Comm., U.E.D.(Rhodes). Mr.P.E.Metcalf,B.Sc.(Hons.)(Natal),N.E.D.Licence to Teach. Mr.K.G. Fish, B.A.(Natal), U.E.D.(Rhodes). Mr.a. R. C. Townshend. Mr.R.D. Blamey, B.A., S.T.D.(Stellenbosch). Mr. E. R.Jenkins, B.A.(Hons.), U.E.D.(Natal), D.C.S.(Leeds). Mr. C. E. Jeannot, B.Sc., H.E.D.(Rand). Mr.J. L. Hall, M.A., U.E.D.(Natal). Mr.J.D.LEwis-WiLLi-aLMs, B.A.,U.E.D.(Cape Town),B.A.(Hons.) (South Africa). Mr. M.S. Mossom, B.Sc., U.E.D.(Rhodes). Mr. R.a.j. Whiteford, B.Sc.(Natal). Mr. p.j. Reece, B.Sc., U.E.D.(Natal),B.Sc.(Hons.)(Cape Town). Mr.D. Bovey, B.A.(Hons.), U.E.D.(South Africa). Mr. M.j. de Beer, N.T.S.D. Mr. I. Gibson, B.A., B.Ed.(Natal), M.A.(Cornell). Mr. M.a. Thiselton, B.Sc.(South Africa), U.E.D.(Natal). Mr. O. K. R. Balcomb, B.A., H.E.D.(Natal). Mr.L. p. Zaayman, N.T.S.D. Mr.D. C. Alletson, M.A.(Cantab.). Mr. R. W.Lamplough, B.A., U.E.D.(Natal). Mrs. R. W.Brosnihan. Mr.E. G.j. Beresford, B.A., H.E.D., N.C.T.D.(Rhodes). Mr.H. C. Sparks, B.Sc., U.E.D. Mr. C. Diedericks, P.T.C. Mr. L. Kassier, B.A., U.E.D.(Natal). Mr. p. M.W.Tennant,B.A.(Hons.),S.T.D.(Cape Town). Mr.B. Williams, B.Sc., T.T.H.D.(Rand). Mr.J.J. Faber, B.A., U.E.D.(Pretoria). Music Staff Director: Mr.J. M.Harper,F.R.C.O.,(Ch.M.), L.T.C.L., A.R.C.M., T.D. Mrs. E. Whiteford, U.L.M., L.T.C.L. 644
4. ■!« ■ ■ ■ ■ i m Alatthew SImm as Hamlel. Plioto; B, Clemence
Jt f 4 I n ■*»*8S«S6j m ■ Air. L. Kassier officiating. Photo: B. Clemence
Art: Mrs.J. Powell, Mrs. H. Kode. Bursar: Mr.J. A. Chick. Headmaster's Secretary: Mrs.D. Milbank. Bursar's Secretary: Mrs. D. Y. Blackbeard. SCHOOL NOTES In retrospect we have had a hectic six months. Rehearsals for Hamlet, which had started last year,took up an increasing amount of time until they culminated in the three highly successful nights of the production. Cricketers found themselves preparing on their free afternoons for the rugby tour which took place in the Easter holidays. There have been many visitors to the school, including the executive members of the National Education Council, and Mr. and Mrs. S. G. Osier. Societies and clubs have held many meetings and outings, keeping life so varied that when a fourth form wanted to do a survey of a "typical" week at Kearsney, it took them weeks to find one! After last year's rains, we have had a long, dry spell, leading up to the excitement of a veld fire which boys had to be called out of prep, to fight. With uncanny foresight exams were set three weeks before the end ofJune, with the result that when the flu epidemic struck, we smiled calmly and sent the sick boys home in their dozens, their papers already safely marked. The school has taken on a new, summery appearance this year as boys are no longer required to wear ties with their khaki uniforms. At the same time, the staff, following the practice in Natal business houses, have been permitted to wear safari suits of uniform appear ance. Further changes have occurred in the buildings: the masters' quarters at the ends of the Gillingham and Finningley sixth form wings have been extended to provide flats for married masters who will become assistant housemasters. This has been necessitated by the number of marriages! We congratulate Mr. and Mrs.Jeannot on their marriage in December, Mr.and Mrs. Tennant on theirs at Easter and Mr.and Mrs.Lamplough on theirs in July. More domes tic news is the arrival ofa baby boy to Mr.and Itlrs. Williams. On a less happy note, we regret that Mr. Sparks has been ill. In February our aeronauts, Messrs. Whiteford and Mossom, brought home a trophy new to the Kearsney scene: the Flying Breakfast Trophy for extraordinary feats of navigation performed over Natal while most sane people were still in bed. Mr. Fish spent his long leave in the first term touring Europe with his family, and Mr.Storm and Mr.de Beer took long leave in the second quarter. Their places were filled by two ladies, Mrs.J. Brookes and Mrs. Y. Dibb, who brought an added air ofcharm to the Kearsney scene. Mr. Townsend acted as housemaster in Junior House, and we also had a student, Mr. M. Myhill. Our old friend Mr. Viljoen spent the second term with us again. Mr.Jeannot was awarded a U.S.-S.A. Leader Exchange Programme fellowship to attend a summer institute in Chem. Study at Texas A. and M. 645
Universiiy in July and August. Appointments this year were Mr.D.Lewis-Williams to the housemastership of Gillingham, and a new Afrikaans master, Mr. J.J. Faber from St. Mark's. Mrs. Tennant has become the part-time librarian, and Mrs. D. Y. Blackbeard replaced Mrs. Bennett in the Office. .■\n apology: a strange error crept into the school notes of the December 1969 Chronicle where Mr. Albert Theunissen was named as the contractor for the new driveway. Mr. Theunissen in fact had no connection with this undertaking, and we apologise to him for the mistake. MRS. JOHN LEA (SISTER GAMBLE) One year after our coming to Botha's Hill there developed a vacancy for a Matron for Finningley House. Of the many appli cants, Sister Gamble, by her brightness and efficiency, most deeply impressed her interviewers. There thus began a very happy ten years of co-operative effort in developing the structure and the spirit which was to set the pattern for Finningley House. Sister Gamble was the essence of charm and reliability. Nothing was too much for her, whether she be attending to a cut leg or sitting up all night with a feverish patient. Her pleasant personality cast its influence over boys, staff and parents, andIregard my friendship with her as a most cherished memory. The House could not have started its Botha's Hill life under better medical care. She had had earlier experience in Maritzburg as Matron of a child welfare home, and so picked up the threads at Kearsney very easily. Her life had not been free from shadow, for she had been widowed twice, and had had to work hard to avoid destitution. One would not have conjectured this, from her philosophical accep tance of life as it spun its web. Came the time for real happinessagain, for in 1950 she married Col. John Lea, of Botha's Hill, himself a widower, and their home near the school was always a haven of hospitality for all who called. For sixteen years she shared his life, and then yet again she was widowed, as John Lea passed away in 1966. There followed inevitably a restless period, as she moved from Botha's Hill to Rhodesia, to England, to Botha's Hill, and finally to Johannesburg, where she settled to live with her only son. Bill. Yet no-one, seeing her, could have guessed either her age or her tragedies. She could always assume a gracious and lively air, and only her closest friends knew what lay beneath the surface. At last life caught up with her. Heart trouble weakened her, and living under this shadow she was compelled to go to hospital inJohannes burg, where she quietly passed away in May. To her son and daughter-in-law we offer our sympathies, cheered by the memories of a life bravely and unselfishly led. J-F.R. 646
APPOINTMENTS Head Prefect: C. R. Foster. Deputy Head Prefect: L. F. Buys. School Prefects: C. R. Foster (F'), L. F. Buys (G), D. M.Levy (P), A. D.Trytsman (J). House Prefects: Finningley: P. Chaplin, B. G.E. Leitch, P.J. Pipkin. Gillingham: D. M.Donaldson, M.P. Paterson, M.F. Watt. Pembroke: M.L. Bank, M.V.B. Bester, D. W.M.Crook. Junior: R. J. Fraser, H. A. Holding, B. J. S. Robinson, B. M. Stafford,J. Zingel. Cricket Captain: C. R. Foster. Swimming Captain: B. M.Stafford. Rugby Captain: L. F. Buys. Hockey Captain: N. M.Bartlett. Tennis Captain: C.R.Foster. Shooting Captain: R. C. V. Wood. Squash Captain: M.B. Bester. Drum Major: D.T. Pilkington. Prime Minister: H. Carter. EXAMINATION RESULTS NATAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE, MATRICULATION EXEMPTION (Distinctions in parenthesis) MeritPass: M. M.Bartlett (Physical Science), T. R. Blackbeard (Physical Science),N.B.Carrington,S.G.Chaning-Pearce (Physical Science, Maths.),J. M.Earl, P.G.Eriksson (Physical Science, Maths.,Add. Maths.),R.S.Gale, N.H.Gamble(Maths.),J.R.Hitchcock (Afri kaans), D.T.Jollands (Maths.), B. E.Jones, M.W.King, G. M. McAlister,T.J.Mathews(Physical Science, Maths.),G.K.Prentice (Physical Science, Maths., Add.Maths.), G.Schachat,G.N.Smith (Physical Science, Maths.,Add. Maths.),J. S. R. Solnick (Physical Science) ,A. J. Storm (Afrikaans), N. C. Strut (Physical Science), P. Wincell (English). Pass: D. R Atlas, G. W. Bosiger, A. R. Brookbanks, I. L. Clarence, L. Colledge, A. A. Gold, P. Goldman, B. R. Hammond, P. S. Hirsch, G.E. Larson, F. A. I.ee, N.J. MacRitchie, C. C.Milbank, P. Press, D.J. G. Rankin, P. J. Roseveare, P. D. Scully, T. G. Shoobridge, M.M.N.Shum,N.H.Smallwood,R.C.Theunissen, C.J. P. Thorpe, f. M. Wallace, D. A. White, P. L. Williamson, L. C. Willis. NATAL SENIOR CERTIFICATE (AdvancedGrade) R.E. Booth,J. R.Botts, S. P. Cain, R.G. Crookes, C. V. Eyerly, P. A. Gladman, B. Z. Harris, D.J. Howieson, F. E. J. Kramer, D. M.Laws, G. D. Pearson, N. D. Rose, M.G. Shannon, L. M. Watt,G.D.J. Wessels. 647
natal senior certificate (Ordinary Grade) I. S. Fogel, G.B. Pentecost, H.M.Pipkin, M.van Niekerk, P. D. Braatvedt, D. L. Brett, C. N. Gager, P. N. Gee, J. W. Harding, L. D. Harrison, I. O. Kirk, D. N. Lamont, C. Lawrence,J. C. E. Moffatt, P. H. Thorpe, D. C. Venter,J.J. Wallace-Tarry, C. T. Wootton. HAMLET Among the fascinating collection of critical comments on the play which the producer, Mr. D. Lewis-Williams, assembled for his attractive programme, we noted that one famous remark was missing; Voltaire said of Hamlet, "One would imagine this piece to be the work of a drunken savage." Often, after sitting through another weird interpretation of the play, one is tempted to say the same ofthe producer, but, Mr.Lewis-Williams will be glad to hear, his production did not give this impression. The genius of Shake speare as a craftsman ofthe stage and as a poet came across strongly. Ofthe philosophical and psychological implications ofthe play, the producer's aim of letting Hamlet ask anew for this generation the age-old questions, succeeded admirably. How difficult it is to do a "straight" production is best illustrated by an example I cannot resist giving. The Times Educational Supplement recently reported how a mistress at an English girls' school tackled the play."Someone began wondering what the play would have been like if Hamlet had been a young woman instead ofa young man," she says."We got so absorbed in the idea that we decided to produce a version of or own on these lines. We called it Judith ... an appropriate name for an avenging woman. Most of the characters came out perfectly well with a change of sex. Of course, it was Judith's mother who had been murdered, by her sister, who then married Judith's father and became queen. The Ghost's part is quite extraordinarily effective when played as a murdered queen." Of course, some lines needed changing: "You couldn't have Judith passionately exclaiming: 'O my prophetic soul! My Auntie!'""But the surprising thing is that what emerged from all this proved to be,in production, a perfectly actable play.'' Just our luck, not to have any girls handy! For the Kearsney production, a large apron stage was built into the auditorium and the normal stage was walled off, leaving only a "study" which contained the thrones and could be curtained off. The rest of the set consisted ofa few anonymous,immovable boxes and a rather incongruous convertible bench/table. The result was a good facsimile ofan Elizabethan stage which creaked a little too much for the liking of some who sat close to it. More important, it presented exciting possibilities for three-dimensional theatre, and the use the producer made of it was astounding. 648
■ ■ ssmm ' ■ : ■ ■ m m Laertes and Hamlet. Photo: B.Clemenc
— i m m W^m m mw > f. »»* fe « m *» rag I'::- ^ . Hamlet^*: The Final scene. Photo: B. Clemence
The acting area was vast, yet it never seemed empty. Skilful placing and movement, and remarkable "presence" by the actors, at all times filled the stage. The actors moved with aplomb,seldom making that give-away rush to get off the stage when they were last, which often mars school performances. ;,;^One thinks, for example, of two courtiers lingering behind at the end of the first court scene to shake their heads over Hamlet,sitting lost in thought in a far corner. It was this apparent lack of hurry, this fearless slowing of tempo and use of pause, in speech as well as in movement,that made the production so satisfying, and helped raise it way above normal schoolboy standards. The play could not succeed without a good Hamlet. Matthew Shum was by any standards good; for a schoolboy in fifth form, he was outstanding. He was a puckish Hamlet, very changeable in mood from a teasing, mocking youth to a figure of tragic, noble grief,capable ofgreat depths ofemotion.The crescendo of"O,what a rogue and peasant slave am I" left the audience breathless when he lay stretched out flat on his face,alone in the middle ofthe stage. He was well supported by Michael Davies as Horatio, who has a splendid appearance on stage though he is rather wooden in his delivery. The other young man, Howard Carter as Laertes, did not come across as a well-defined character, but had some excellent moments, especially the last scene. Here the sword fight was quite breathtaking,full of bold Errol Flynn type movement and frighteningly realistic cut and thrust. Bernard Prosser, an ageing profligate Claudius, played the role as a schemer and a coward. Obviously well coached in his part, his gestures and phrasing did not always seem natural, but the total effect was praiseworthy. Barry Smith was not as successful in por traying the old man Polonius. One felt that more understanding ofthe part would have compensated for the difficulties ofconveying age. The two ladies were an excellent choice. Mrs. Irene Harper played a stately yet weak Queen,weepy and guilt-ridden. An effec tive, curiously self-effacing interpretation which eliminated any in congruities of her position among a cast of schoolboys. Jeanette Crawford was a suitably pathetic Ophelia. Of the lesser characters, John Morison was by far the most outstanding among many who all played their parts well. He was a gloomy, imposing Ghost and an unusual Osric — more of an ass than a wet. Peter Stockil and Neville Maytom,convincing and amusing Grave Diggers, kept up the generally restrained tone ofthe production(a trend contradicted by Barry Leitch, who as the Priest was extraordinarily offended by Ophelia's suicide). Taken all in all, there were few flaws in this memorable proE.R.J. 649
HAMLET Directed by Mr.D.Lewis-Williams CLAUDIUS Bernard Prosser HAMLET Matthew Shum HORATIO Michael Davies POLONIUS Barry Smith LAERTES Howard Carter OSRIC John Morison MARCELLUS Andrew Trytsman BERNARDO Andrew Mason FRANCISCO Neville Young GHOST John Morison PLAYER KING ^Alan Rycroft player QUEEN EugeneJansen van Vuuren LUCIANUS Neville Young MUSICIANS Mr.Peter Tennant and Stephen Heath First GRAVE DIGGER Peter Stockil Second GRAVE DIGGER Neville Maytom PRIEST Barry Leitch FORTINBRAS Andrew Trytsman VOLTIMAND Michael Simon SAILOR Anthony Lloyd players Timothy Ellis-Cole,Hugh Goble,Malcolm van der Riet, Rodion Kraus, Michael Lurie COURTIERS Keith Arnold,Paul Asherson Donald Fletcher-Evans, Anthony Lloyd,Steven Sack CAPTAINS . . . . Lauron Buys,Paul Pipkin,David Walker,Gary Weddell DANES . . Timothy Ellis-Cole, Hugh Goble,Rodion Kraus, Michael Lurie GERTRUDE Mrs. Irene Harper OPHELIA Jeanette Crawford KEARSNEY COLLEGE OVERSEAS TOUR 1969/70 The touring party comprised three adults and 24 boys, 21 from Kearsney and one from each of St. Stithian's, Michaelhouse and Westville High School. Obviously, it is a considerable responsibility on the shoulders ofthose in charge to conduct a group oftwo dozen schoolboys between the ages of 14 and 18 through the greater part ofEurope. For this reason a minimum number offundamental rules were imposed and rigidly enforced. Within the framework of this essential discipline the boys were given as much freedom as possible. Having appreciated the sense in this system, all 24 boys co-operated and a thoroughly enjoyable, as well as instructive, time was had by all. There was enough time beyond the organised sight-seeing and entertainment for everyone to experience a good deal ofEurope outside the run-of-the-mill tourist attractions. We were incredibly lucky with the weather. Not one ofthe sche duled outings was interfered with by rain, sleet or snow and the sun shone for us in the Iberian peninsula, Austria, Italy and Greece while it triehdard to do so elsewhere too. It was bitterly cold in Holland-a snowball fight among the boys took place on the frozen Zuider Zee at the Afsluitdijk-but resulting discomfort was largely offset by internally heated hotels and the luxury bus in which we 650
travelled. A week after leaving London we saw, in English news papers bought on the continent, pictures of the sea frozen along the Kent coast. I was thankful to have escaped from England before that freeze-in and, furthermore, without any cases of the virulent 'flu, which was raging through the country at that time, on my hands. From Amsterdam through^Germany to Austria and on through Italy we had a luxury, internally-heated coach, expertly driven by a Dutch driver, Hendrik, to ourselves. For this leg of the Tour we were extremely fortunate in having an Englishman, Norman Rey nolds, as our courier who,in this capacity, was absolutely first-class and, as an individual, soon won the respect and affection of all in the party. The calibre of the courier is of the utmost significance on a tour such as this and Norman certainly made this section vitally interesting. Elsewhere, too, with very few exceptions, the local guides were very good. On the whole our hotels were com fortable, one or two were positively luxurious and only one was poor. In this case, however, the inconvenience was worth it for its central position in the city. On such a tour, with the many and varied places visited each with its own particular character and attractions, there can be no single highlight. Each place no doubt had its fascinations and dis appointments for each individual. However, none can have failed to be impressed by the rugged beauty of the Portuguese coast, the charm of walled Toledo, the splendour of the royal palaces of Versailles and Madrid, the immensity of St. Peter's basilica, the architectural excellence of the Parthenon, the acoustic perfection of the ancient amphitheatre at Epidaurus or the tranquil beauty of the Arnhem cemetry which evoked many a silent tear. In the Prada museum, Madrid, we saw masterpieces of Velaz quez, Goya and El Greco. Velazquez's "Las Meninas", with its three-dimensional effect, captured the imagination even of those not interested in art. More of El Greco's works were seen in Toledo where the artist's house,now a museum,was visited. Unfortunately, for the connoisseurs, insufficient time was available to do justice to the various art galleries. In the Louvre we saw the famous Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory and Venus de Milo. We hadjust sufficient time in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, to take in Rembrandt's "Nightwatch" and a special visit to St. Mary's Glorious of Frari, Venice, enabled us to see Titian's Virgin Mary. A fascinating afternoon was spent in the Athens archaeological museum prior to our excursion on the next day to the archaeological sites at Corinth and Mycenae where many of the museum's exhibits were discovered. Florence, birthplace of Michelangelo and home of many of his greatest works,was the centre ofattraction for the culturally minded. However, even those not so artistically inclined must have been 651
inspired by his David and by the magnificent golden "Gates of Paradise" of Lorenzo Ghiberti in the Baptistery. Other sculptures of Michelangelo which we saw included, inter alia, two of his four Pietas and his Moses. Many, however, preferred the sculptures of Bernini many ofwhich wesaw in the Borghese gallery. In the Sistine chapel, Michelangelo was seen through a different medium in his "LastJudgment" and the episodes from Genesis on the ceiling. In Madrid we tasted Spanish food and wine at its best at the Corral de la Moreria where the meal was followed by an e.xhibition of Flamenco dancing. We were fortunate to see one of the world's greatest solo dancers of this type in actionO.ne Saturday night in Paris saw the party at a cabaret show-none of the tourists will ever forget Peter Braatvedt's part in a striptease actthere - followed by the late show at the Lido. Despite the champagne, this proved something ofan anticlimax after the cabaret. In Amsterdam we sampled a Javanese "rijstafel" and in Rome we dined and wined at a typical Roman restaurant. In Athens we visited the port of Piraeus for a traditional Greek fish dinner-too rich for some. Typical national meals were enjoyed elsewhere too including one at the delightful Rhenish village of Rudesheim on our trip up the river. Daytime excursions included a visit to the immensely impressive memorial to the fallen ofthe Spanish civil war at Valle de los Caidos and thence on to the palace at El Escorial renowned for its library and its priceless tapestries.In Holland we wentsouth through Leiden to the Hague to see,inter alia, the international Court ofJustice and the Dutch Lido at Scheveningen and on to Rotterdam to see the docks and ascend the Euromast. The next day we went north via Volendam through the polders to the mighty engineering feat which is the Afsluitdijk. On our way to Rome we travelled via the fascinating village of Assisi to see the shrine of St. Francis. From Rome we went out to Tivoli, having called in at the ruins of Hadrian's villa on the way. The sun broke through the mist as we came out ofthe Villa D'Este to add even more glory to the spectacular fountains of the Tivoli gardens, all of which operate entirely through gravity. A most interesting few hours were spent at Pompeii prior to the hair-raising drive along the coastal cliffs between Salerno and Sorrento. From Sorrento we ferried out for a glorious day on Capri where the weather was so mild and calm that many ofthe boys had a swim in the limpid blue waters of the Mediterranean. Visits to the steelworks in Toledo, glass-blowing workshops in Venice, a clogmaker's shop in Holland, a Delft pottery, a cameo works near Naples and Roster's diamond cutters in Amsterdam enabled us to see master craftsmen at work in their particular skills perfected through the ages. Other visits in Holland took us to a 652
cheese factory and to the world-famous flower mart at Aalsmeer where we witnessed a sale conducted in their unique method of auctioneering. Six days over Christmas were spent in London. Organised enter tainment embraeed an excursion to Oxford and Windsor, visits to some of the museums in Kensington, the Tower, St. Paul s and the Houses of Parliament among other attractions. Outings at night included Agatha Christie's "Mousetrap" still running after over 17 years. Many were able to spend the holiday period with friends or relatives and the ample free time enabled the others to see more of this great city including such attractions as Madame Tussaud's and, needless to say, Carnaby Street. Some of us saw a ist Division soccer match and a few managed to obtain tickets to Hair . We had a very happy nine days at our ski resort at Vandans in the Montafon valley, Austria. It had snowed copiously before our arrival but, once we were there, the sun shone for the most part to make skiing conditions almost perfect. After an initial session on the nursery slopes we graduated to steeper ground where some made good progress while others seemed to spend more time on the snow than on their skis. Fortunately, injuries were few and far between -• only one minor fracture and one badly sprained ankle. At the Hotel Sonne, a small fortune was spent on pin-ball machines,juke boxes and at the "kegelbahn" (bowling alley). Unluckily for some there was no TV here but we had experienced it in London and else where. The food here was quite excellent and made all the more enjoyable by the charming Austrian frauleins who waited on us. The foregoing sketches but a few of the highlights of the Tour as seen through the eyes ofone individual.The view ofLisbon across the Tagusfrom the top ofthe vast statue "Christ the King' and the panoramic views of Paris from the Eiffel tower and of Rome from the cupola of St. Peter's are other memories which will not readily fade. On the whole, the behaviour of the tourists was exemplary. Nowhere did they evoke anyone's displeasure and at more than one place their manners and conduct were specifically praised. In^ his farewell speech, Norman Reynolds paid tribute to them saying among other things, that present day England could well do with a few more responsible disciplined youths of this calibre. Last, but by no means least, I should like to thank my wife, who sewed on many a button and who prevented many an ailment with timely doses ofvarious medicines,and my assistant, Mr.Townshend, without whose invaluable help the Tour would have been far less enjoyable. I want also to commend the boys in the party on the way in which they conducted themselves. They were a credit to their schools and their country. M.A.T. 653
MUSIC Chapel choir The treble department of this year's choir has been greatly strengthened by the new intake, and this section of the choir is well up to standard. There has, unfortunately, been the customary reluc tance on the part of senior boys to offer their services, but those who have rehearse and perform with competence and enthusiasm. We are grateful to the members of the Staff Choir who reinforce the Chapel Choir for anthems and special music. This amalgamated choir has performed a number of anthems, and in the ist term sang Malcolm Williamson's "Procession of Palms,"as well as a considerable amount of music for the Tenebrae service at the end of the ist term. This choir is also taking part in a concert next term, and a part of the choir will be singing at an Afrikaans Concert in Pinetown in early August. RECITALS In the ist term a recital of piano music by Beethoven was given by Mr. Harper, the programme comprising: Rondo German Dances Variations in C minor Sonata in C minor (the Pathetique) In the 2nd term a programme of light musie for piano duet was presented in the Music Block, played by Mrs. E. Whiteford and Mr.J. Harper. The programme was: Slavonic Dance in A flat-A. Dvorak Sonata in B flat- IV. A. Mozart The "Dolly" Suite — G.Fame Slavonic Dance in E minor-A,Dvorak The Mother Goose Suite-M.Ravel ORGAN RECITALS There has been the usual organ recital each term, given by Mr. Harper. These have been well attended. Programmes were as follows: March 32nd Fanfare-C.S. Lang Prelude and fugue in C Minor-J.S. Bach Rondo: Les Fifres-Pierre Dandrieu Choral prelude on "All glory,laud and honour" — J.S. Bach Prelude on"Crimond"- Alec Rowley Scherzetto — Joseph Jongen Verset — Alexandre Cuilmant "The Squirrel"-Powell Weaver Carillon — Herbert Murrill Grand March - A. Guilmant June 2ist Fanfare- Arthur Wills Prelude and fugue in A minor-J.S. Bach Pieces from the "Water Music" Suite-G.F.Handel 654
Ronde Francaise - Boellmrmn Caprice in B flat-A. Guilmant Sonata No.3in C minor-A. Guilmant GENERAL MUSICAL ACTIVITIES Talking about music Two talkhsave been given by Mr. Harper. The first one dealt with Beethoven's 4th Piano Concerto,and in the 2nd term Borodin's 2nd Symphony. These talkhsave been very well attended. Next term the work to be discussed and played will be William Walton's "Belshazzar's Feast". Record Society This Society is being revived and one meeting was held in the 2nd term, when a programme of Musical Novelties was presented. It is hoped to extend the range and number of these meetings in the future, as well as to arrange visits to musical activities in the district on a wider scale. FORTHCOMING MUSICAL EVENTS The 3rd term will see the usual pattern of talks and recitals plus a concert on August 28th at 8.00 p.m. in the School Hall, the theme of the concert being music connected with the sea. It will be given by the augmented Philharmonic Orchestra of Pietermaritzburg, conducted by John Knuyt, and the school choir and soloists will also take part. Proceeds will be in aid of the "Grand Piano Fund". Full details of musical events for the 3rd term will be given in the Music Calendar which will be sent out at the start of the 3rd term. Those interested should note that talks and recitals are given at A.A'i p.m. and all, both within and outside the school are welcome. J.M.H. CHAPEL NOTES One of the highlights of this year's chapel services was the pre sentation ofthe ancient service ofTenebrae usually held on Maundy Thursday but which we had on the Wednesday night before Easter. The word "Maundy" comes from the Latin word "mandatum" which means commandment and refers to the new commandment which Jesus gave his disciples in the Upper Room, "Love one another as I have loved you". In the evening ofthis day Our Lord met with the disciples in the Room and shared in the meal known as the Lord's Supper. Chris tians in every country gather on the evening before Good Friday to recall the events ofthe night in which He was betrayed. 655
The service is an adaptation of an early Fourth Century act of worship called "TENEBRAE", a word which simply means darkness. The gradual extinguishing of the candles and the lights in the Church symbolises the darkness of loneliness in desertion. The extinguishing ofthe main candle is symbolic ofthe extinguish ing of the Light of the World at the Crucifixion. The relighting of this candle points to the renewal of hope and the emergence of New Life on Easter Day. ORDER OF SERVICE Processional Hymn,228- vs. i and 2(Choir only) The Preparation - Mark 14; 12-17 Prayer and Lord's Prayer Hymn 498-vs 3(Choir only) THE GATHERING DARKNESS The Shadow ofBetrayal- Matthew 26; 20-25(Junior Chorister) The Shadow of Desertion — Matthew 26; 31-35 (Senior Chorister) Anthem: "God So Loved the World" His Agony ofSoul- Mark 14: 26, 32-36(Junior Boy) His Unshared Vigil- Mark 14: 37-42 (Senior Boy) Hymn 180 Father, the Hour is Come-John 17: 1-16 (School Prefect) The arrest at the Gate- Mark 14:43-50(Member ofStaff) Anthem: "O Saviour ofthe World" The Denial- Mark 14: 66-72(The Headmaster) The Shadow ofthe Cross- Mark 15: 15-27(The Chaplain) Silent Prayer THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD Anthem: "Lead Me Lord" Silent Prayer Hymn 183 Prayers and Benediction Congregation leaves quietly with Chapel dimly lit. For many people this proved to be a most meaningful act of worship and it is hoped that this service will become a regular feature of life at Kearsney. A Guild Service was held recently when the Guilders took as their theme,"Christianity among the Religions ofMan"and argued in modern idiom for committment to Jesus Christ. Voluntary prayers continue in the evenings after prep, and the Chaplain conducts regular evening prayers in Junior House. Chapel music has been enriched by the visits of the Indaleni Guilders who pro vided a quartet, and the Singing Oblates who conducted a service in the modern medium of folk music. During March twelve boys attended a three-day leadership con ference at Eston organised by the Private Schools Headmasters' Conference. The boys returned with much enthusiasm having gained many new insights into themselves and the relevance of the Christian way oflife. The Guild continues to draw many members, and emphasis has been placed on internally planned meetings rather than depending 656
on a succession of"outside" speakers. Whenever possible an attempt is made to encourage the boys to assume greater responsibility lor leadership and to make their own special contribution. D.J.B. LIBRARY REPORT The library is undoubtedly one of the most important institu tions in the school, for unlike different societies which provide for select tastes, the library must cater for the many varied interests ofthe boys. The Reference section ofthe library remains painfully inadequate. There is usually insufficient information for boys to compile satis factory projects on the weird and wonderful topics members of staff- especially those of the English Department-dream up each term. The Encyclopaedia Britannica remains our main source of information and as a result, as parents and especially Old Boys will know, projects generally become "holiday assignments . We have been extremely fortunate in that we have been granted a Provincial library of approximately 800 books, both fiction and non-fiction, although the former accounts for the larger percentage. The beauty of the system is that books are continuously being renewed by the authorities of the Provincial library and as a result these books form a large share of the English fiction books taken out each evening. While the junior and middle school are provided with reading matter from the pens of such authors as Hammond Innes, Alistair McLean and several others besides the innumerable westerns which between them must have seen the date stamp more times than all the other books of the fiction library, the senior library is very limited. Seniors complain bitterly and make frequent requests for suitable books-such authors as Morris West and Irving Wallace have been mentioned — but what they are asking for is not exactly heavy reading matter but a good selection of modern novels. There has been a stimulated interest in the Afrikaans section of the library which was considerably enlarged last year by the expen diture of R90 and the addition ofa small provincial library. From a low total of 90 books read last term there has been a sudden increase to 300 this term. This sudden increase seems to be a result of the introduction ofan Afrikaans library period every week or fortnight as the case may be, by most Afrikaans masters.What is most interesting to note however is that several Afrikaans books are taken out independently of class library periods. 657
Magazines are a debatable subject in the library for with the small grant given to the library it is difhcult to decide how much should be set aside for them. A request for several new magazines brought about the surprising appearance offour new magazines in the library. However with the progression of time issues of both new and old magazines have become less regular now except for the old faithfuls-"Farmers'Weekly"and"Landbou".Not only is it felt that the magazine section should increase but also the newspaper circulation-including papers from overseas. There are many mo dern stands for keeping magazines and newspapers in-resulting in the minimum inconvenience and untidiness. Unfortunately they cost money and space, two commodities the library can ill afford. This question of space is brought home most forceably during that period after supper which seems to be a favourite time to make use ofthe library (in fact it has become quite a meeting place and favourite spot for the latest rumours) and during those few frantic weeks leading up to the exams. The lack of adequate seating and desks becomes quite noticeable-yet all possible space within reason is made use of. In a report ofthis kind mention must be made of Mrs. Tennant, who having found herself caught up in the sticky web of the "Kearsney Family" has resigned herself to her fate and is working like a demon in the library cataloguing and stacking all books into the Dewey system. This term she has had quite a response to her fine lists — perhaps it is due to efficiency or it may be due to the interest she arouses in herself— no doubt a suitable combination of both. Typically feminine, she has remarked on the harshness of the library and sees possibilities of curtains, decent paintings and a more comfortable set-up altogether. However for all these enterprises funds are required and as stated previously, this is something the library lacks. A grateful note of thanks must be made to M!rs. Engels who hearing of the library's plight, generously made a donation to aid the fiction section of the library. She also donated a large and equally expensive volume on art which has been perused by several interested boys. J. D. Morison C.J. Lind Holmes G. D. Knell [Library Monitors) 658
HOW KEARSNEY BOYS SPEND THEIR TIME A Report by Form IVh During the second term Form IVb undertook a survey to see how boarders spend their time out ofschool and prep, hours. The boys in the sample, who were chosen at random from form lists, had to fill in aform every nightfor a week,starting on a Sunday and ending the next Saturday. They had to state the number of hours, to the nearest quarter hour, they spend on the following activities: Organised Sport-this is sport which has a master in charge; Unsupervised Sport-this is done voluntarily in the boys' free time without any master; Schoolwork out of school and prep, hours; Society Activities-this includes the choir and cadet band; Volun tary Chapel and confirmation classes; Extra-mural Lessons and detention, including art, music and extra Afrikaans; Leisure Reading; and lastly Free Time (Relaxation). The response to the survey was weak, with fifth formers respond ing the least and fourth formers responding the most. The total response was 57 out of approximately 130 questionnaires which indicates a very low spirit in the school. Many boys refused to fill in the questionnaire; they said they would if they were forced to, but not if it was voluntary to do so. Others did not hand the questionnaires back because they had succumbed to the disease which is exireiiiely I'lfe at the moment-apathy. This wag annoying since it made calculation more ditbcult. As only the willing responded, this makes it not particularly accurate, as those who do not contri bute much to school life no doubt are not represented here. In the results. Forms I and II were combined. An average amount oftime per boy for the week was calculated, and the results are given below. I&II III IV V VI Organised Sport . 2.50 6.36 3'37 2.19 4-59 Unsupervised Sport .12 2.02 1.44 2.07 I-5I Total Sport . . . . • 302 8.38 5-21 4.26 6.50 Extra Schoolwork . . 2.26 4-34 4-34 7.II 7.18 Society Activities . . .46 ■15 .27 b 0 1.42 Voluntary Chapel . . .08 .16 •32 .28 ■33 Extra Lessons . . 1.06 1.03 •49 .26 .03 Leisure Reading • 3-19 1.40 3'23 3-03 3-15 Relaxation . . . . • 9-16 6.22 8.18 6.32 10.36 Time in hours and minutes From these results the following conclusions can be drawn. FormsIand II spend most of their time relaxing and reading. 659
These take priority because these boys do not have to do prep, or extra work in the afternoon. They have least extra chapel because they have to go to bed early and at that age boys are not usually confirmed. They don't do much unsupervised sport because they prefer to relax and don't like organizing it among themselves. They don't take part in many society activities because of their early bedtime. These boys are the only ones that do art and music as compulsory subjects, which lets those that are interested be inspired to go to extra lessons, thus they spend more time than any one else on this sort of activity. The Third Formers were found to spend more time on sport, when organizaendd unsupervised sport are taken together, than anyone else in the school. They spend the least time on society activities and voluntary chapel and do considerably less reading. Because ofall their sport, they have the least free time in the school. The Fourth Formers were found to spend the most time in the school, by a small margin, on reading. They themselves devote most oftheir spare time to relaxation,and the second most amount of their time to extra schoolwork. This indicates that they are generally hardworking. They are not particularly society minded, but do a lot ofextra chapel because a considerable number ofthem are being confirmed. The Fifth Formers were found to spend the least time in the school on organized sport, but make up for it by spending the most tim.e on organizing their own games. They claim to spend most of their time on schoolwork. They take part in a lot ofsociety activities but this may have been because of the school production of Hamlet. Because work is their greatest activity they don't seem to find much time for chapel and extra lessons. The Sixth Form have the same priorities as the Fourth Form except that they put more emphasis on societies and less on extra lessons. It is strange that although they are meant to be working hard, relaxation tops their list and extra schoolwork comes second. They do the most extra schoolwork and learning in the school, and being the top of the school they take the most interest in society activities. They go to chapel voluntarily the most. It is an extra ordinary feature that these boys do nearly the most supervised sport in the school, but also do a lot ofreading. We think that from these results the Sixth Formers can be divided into the working, non-sportsmen, and the loafers and sportsmen. But the figures may be inaccurate because the Sixth Form have a longer day than any other forms. So we find that the time spent on extra work increases steadily from Form I to Form VI; that Form III are the uncultured sports men of the school, and that the Sixth Form take the lead in most school activities. We found the survey very interesting, and would like to thank all those who co-operated with us. 660
POLO On Sunday, 14th June,the boys were offered the unusual privilege of being able to have the afternoon off to go and watch the and international polo test match between South Africa and the Argen tine polo team touring the country, at the Shongweni polo ground. An interesting and exciting afternoon's polo was climaxed by the test match,in which, although the South Africans offered a fair amount of opposition, the visitors dominated the game. The Argentine captain, Juan Carlos Harriot, really played an outstanding game, either scoring or instituting most of the goals his team scored, and demonstrating why he is known as the world's top polo player. Besides being an exciting afternoon's sport, the test match was interesting in that it was the first polo game that many of the boys had watched. A.M. THE STATE OF KEARSNEY By a Sixth Former Shortly after the school's production of Hamlet, I heard a group of boys sharing their complaints, criticism and hate for the school. Out ofthis conversation emerged some distorted wordsfrom Hamlet — "There is something rotten in the state of Kearsney". The only reply to this was"Damn sure!" This made me think. I myself had often complained, perhaps often unjustifiably and perhaps sometimes with some cause. But is there really something rotten in the system, the attitude and traditions of Kearsney? I considered the complaints of the boysthe food, no smoking, no freedom, haircuts, compulsory chapel and general pettiness. It suddenly struck me that these were complaints that I had recalled ever since coming to Kearsney. It seems likely that even in 1939 the boys of Kearsney complained about these things. But it is a universal trait of human behaviour to complain; it is human nature to grumble when you do not get what you want, and a boarding school would seem the obvious breeding-ground for com plaint. Many Kearsney boys have a deep feeling of hate for something in the school-every boy goes through a period of hating this or hating that. Sometimes boys do not know what they dislike in the school, and consequently must take this out on haircuts and food and chapel. Food strikes seem, at the time, to be a serious affair, and to the boys, one great bit of fun, showing to themselves that 661
they are superior and strong in their brief unity. The defiance of authority signals tremendous triumph for every boy. The food strike is just an outlet forother feelings, and fortunately there is this already prepared outlet. A headmaster is naturally enough troubled by any complaints and criticism. But I feel that he would have greater problems if there were no complaints and criticism. I do not redeem every feature ofthe present system;some obviously need change.ButI con clude,and I feel realistically, that the state ofKearsney is not rotten, it is alive, it is blooming and it is healthy. FIRE! The heavy, studious silence of prep, was suddenly broken by the scraping of desks, and the thundering of feet in the corridors as the cry of"Fire!" circulated the classroom block. "There's a veld fire at Mr. Crawford's!" someone shouted. "Get on some old clothes, and run!" It was 7-15 P-ni- on Wednesday,the loth ofJune,and,according to people who live in the valley behind the school, the fire had been burning all afternoon, although the Crawfords had only become aware of it shortly after 7.00 p.m. Within minutes of the alarm being given, the Kearsney College road was filled with the figures ofrunning,shouting boys, all trying to be with the first to arrive at the scene of the fire. Many of the trees lining the road were stripped almost naked to provide branches with which to beat out the fire. The limp, the lame, and the weary, injuries and tiredness for gotten, were jostling and shouting with the rest. On arriving at Mr. Crawford's house, it became immediately apparent that to tackle the fire would be no easyjob. After rushing, torch-like, through a line of pine trees bordering the property, the fire had caught a hold in the brush and dry grass at the bottom of a steep garden, and was steadily moving upwards. Immediately they arrived, a few boys seized the initiative and found their way to the bottom of the garden, whose terraces and brambles were accounting for many scratches and bruises in the darkness, and began attacking the fire from the bottom. Following their example, many ofthe boys who had been stand ing around, unsure ofhow to begin, made their way to the bottom and soon a fairly efficient system was established, killing the fire in sections, and preventing it from climbing further. At first there was a general air offrivolity and excitement among the boys,buttheysoon settled down to the task ofsteadily extinguish ing the fire. 662
At one stage the fire caught in an unusually thick tangle of brambles and brush, flaring up intensely, and the flames and thou sands ofglowing sparks, carried by the wind, caused a few minutes of tense anxiety. It was eventually brought under control, and this, along with the arrival of hoses which were effectively set to work,signalled the end of virtually the whole fire. Subsequent small flare-ups were quickly dispelled, and by 8.15 there was nothing left but a carpet ofglowing coal lining the ground everywhere. The bravery ofsome of the boys was commendable, and as Mr. Myhill, who was very much a part of the activity, remarked, the fire could not have been brought under control without the aid of the boys. Mr. Crawford followed this up by saying, "I'm very glad that the boys were here this time, because in 1966 we had a similar fire, which was during the school holidays, however, when we were away as well, and the fire took almost everything." Despite cuts, bruises, and minor burns, everyone seemed to agree that it was the best possible way in which a prep, could be spent. A. Mason LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Sir, Urgent representations have been made to me by the Mikado and the Assembly of Nipponese Notables. I am instructed to draw to your attention the monstrous, indeed scurrilous, allegation made by your correspondent "D.L-W." in the Icist issue of the Chronicle. Your correspondent states "The Bluebird disappeared". This is quite wrong. The Bluebird did not disappear. It simply passed from view, which is not the same thing at all. I have been requested to remind you of the old Nipponese pro verb, which runs"Old Bluebirds never die;they simply pull away." I am further instructed to observe that there have, in recent times, been other incidents when men in high office have not had all the facts set before them. The result has been loss offace. It is my sincere wish that you should not lose face (even on the surface) and I hope, therefore, that you will be open to correction. Banzai! R. W.Lamplough. D.L-W. replies: I am dismayed to learn that the Assembly ofNipponese Notables has been brought into what is a purely personal vendetta-they can ill-afford the time. 663
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTc3MDU5Nw==