I«ISS

THE GATEWAY Baffle Abbey School Magazine

1955

"THE GATEWAY"

CONTENTS Page

3. The End of the Year 3. The Magazine Committee 4. Examination Candidates 4. Music Examination Results 5. Heads, Vice-Heads, Bronzes, Captains, Vice-Captai 5. Cups and Awards 6. The Student Christian Movement Gonfezence 6. The Christmas Play 7. Shakespeare's " M a c b e t h " 7. Shakespeare's "King J o h n " . . . 7. School Activities S. Musical Notes ... 9. Arts and Crafts 9. The Historical Society

10. The Domestic Science Department 10. Games — Teams — Matches ... 13. The Gym Competition 14. Wimbledon, 1955 14. Sports Day 15. The Eastbourne College Dance 15. Battle Re-visited 15. The " Election " in Battle Abbey 16. The Girl Guide Year 17. Days in the Sun 18. Land of Ice-cream and Spaghetti 19. A Visit to France 19. The "Ha l to -Xmas" Party . . . 20. Welcome New Privileges 20. Colonel Blimp 21. Quotable Quotes

Miscellaneous Poems :— 23. Lines in Imitation of Hiawatha 24. A Long Day 24. Tragedy on the Village Pond 25. The Tragic Story of Lord Lundy 25. The Countryside 26. Housewife's Choice 26. In the Sixth Form 27. " A Gay L i f e ? " 27. Reminiscences of Early School Days

Obituary :— 28. Dr. H. A. Lane 28. Mademoiselle Junod

Miss Sheehan-Dare

. . . M. Stevenson

. . . A. Koekkoek L. Campbell

. . . A. Koekkcek

. . . M. Stevenson A. Lang and P. Adams

E. Hudson and E. Sharp . . . A. Mackenzie

R. Larkins and D. Watkinson

Miss Raven J. Wareing

M. Higton and R. Larkins R. Larkins and J. Clark

J. Morris J. Carr and S. Westcott

D. Watkinson . . S. Montgomery

L. Campbell and A. Lang B. Martin

E. Sharp and E. Hudson A. Barbour Vlth Form

C. Pinkus . . . J. Woodhouse

A. Barbour . . . J. Van Santen

S. Withers I. Thompson

... A. Koekkoek A. Koekkoek and J. Wareing

Octag. Dormitory

Miss Hyder Miss Gifford

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THE END OF THE YEAR " The mountainous Alps on the one hand, and the delicate colouring of a

humming-bird's wing on the other, are nothing in workmanship compared with an honest man or woman ".

By " honest" Dickens, from whose " Sketches" these words are quoted (from memory, and therefore possibly not quite exactly), means, of course, " sincere "—sincere in intention.

In schools, we are all—pupils and authority alike—engaged, whether we know it or not, on this piece of work—the making of the honest (or dishonest) man or woman.

Authority has its part to perform but it is only one half. Unless a girl is convinced that her part is equally important, and is willing to do it, authority can accomplish nothing. The girl who will not take a hand in the building of her own character, who puts all the burden of her moral growth on the grown-ups and relies on school rules and punishments to push and pull her into some sort of moral shape, will acquire no knowledge of herself and will leave the School as unfit to face the responsibilities of life as the undeveloped child she was when she came to it.

There are some things we shall none of us " get away with " in the long run, and one of these is the refusal to discipline ourselves. Without the self-confidence which comes from the control of our own impulses we are thrown hither and thither on life's storms : with it we have an anchor, however much the world around us may be " at sea ".

If the tone of this first page is more solemn than usual it is because, when contemplating the past year, I cannot feel otherwise than solemn on this subject. But seriousness is not despair, and there are influences among us which give reasonable ground for hope that, when July comes round again and the year which is now " the future " has travelled into the past (a thought which should give us pause), I may be able to look back in happier mood. Assuredly I shall be able to, if every one of you has made up her mind that this cheerful possibility shall become a certainty.

HELEN SHEEHAN-DARE.

"THE GATEWAY" THE MAGAZINE COMMITTEE

Mem here : P. Adam M. Stevenson L. Campbeli J. Wareing A. Koekkoek V. Hughes A. Lang A. Mackenzie

Editor: Miss Hyder

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CANDIDATES FOR THE GENERAL CERTIFICATE EXAMINATION, 1955

ADVANCED LEVEL Lome Campbell—English, French. Ann Koekkoek—English, Scholarship French, Latin. Angela Lang—French. Elizabeth Stevenson—English, French. Jennifer Wareing—Art.

ORDINARY LEVEL Patricia Adam. Lome Campbell. Gillian Clark Jennifer Clark. Anne Davenport. Malvina Higton. Elizabeth Hudson. Valerie Hughes. Rosemary Larkins. Anna Mackenzie Beverley Martin. Sarah Montgomery. Penelope Rubinstein. Rosemary Scott-Ram. Elizabeth Sharp. Penelope Smith. Elizabeth Stevenson. Jennifer Wareing. Diana Watkinson.

THE ASSOCIATED BOARD OF MUSIC EXAMINATION RESULTS

GRADE V. HIGHER : B. Martin Pass

GRADE IV. LOWER : J. Brown Pass

GRADE III : J. Wright Pass

GRADE H : J. Watkins Pass S. Thomas Pass G. Forster Merit

This year the Senior Music Cup was won jointly by Patricia Adam and Penelope Rubenstein. Angela Cullum's name was inscribed on the Junior Music Scroll.

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HEADS, VICE-HEADS, BRONZES, GAMES - CAPTAINS, STARS

Christmas Term

H e a d : Vice :

Easter Term

Head : Vice :

Summer Term

Head : V ice . Bronzes :

Games Captains :

Stars :

St. Mary's M. Stevenson*

St. Martin's J. Turnbull*

M. Stevenson

M. Stevenson J. Carr* C. Lafone L. Campbell

C. Lafone B. Martin J. Clark A. Davenport 15. Martin S. Uirch

St. Etheid-eda's A. Kcckkock* J. Wareing*

A. Kockork J. Warcing

A. Koekkoek J. Warcing A. Lang

A. Stancombe S. Montgomery V. Hughes A. Stancombe D. Watkinson S. Montgomery W. Hutt G. Grey

* Denotes Acting

J. Wareing J. Warcing R. Larkins G. C'ark A. Mackenzie C. Barnett C. Dixon-Smilh

C H R I S T M A S T E R M , 1954

S«. Patrick's V. Frceland P. Adam

P. Adam*

P. Ad.im

J. McOnegal J. McOnegal E. Hudson R. Scott-Ram J. McOnegal S. Thomas J. Lord

CUPS AND AWARDS SUMMER TERM, 1954

Conduct Cup

Work Cup

Posture Cup ... Tennis Cup Sports Cup ... ...

Shield

Tidiness Picture English Cup

Conduct Cup Work Cup Shield

Tidiness Picture

Music Cup

Junior Music Scroll There was no Lacrosse owing to the weather.

St. Martin's St. Mary's and St. Martin's

St. Martin's St. Martin's St. Patrick's fSt. Mary's -jand (St. Martin's Form IV.B B. Warning

St. Mary's St. Mary's St. Mary's Form IV.B

P. Adam and P. Rubinstein

A. Cullum

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Conduct Cup Work Cup Dancing Cup Netball Cup Shield ... Gym. Cup Activities Cup Tidiness Picture

EASTER TERM, 1955 St Mary's St. Mary's St. Patrick's St. Mary's St. Mary's Remove Remove Form V.A

THE STUDENT CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT CONFERENCE

The morning of October 21st, 1954, dawned bright and clear, and five of the Vlth Form set out for Ancaster House School, where the Conference was taking place.

Miss Skinner met us at Hastings ; we soon arrived at Ancaster House, and at 10.30 a.m. were sitting in the " theatre," listening to the local Vicar, who was filling in the time before Dr. Roger Pilkington arrived. The subject of Dr. Pilkington's leaure was, " Does Christianity Maner in the Atomic Age ? " After the lecture, we adjourned in small groups to discuss the lecture and query any doubtful points. After that, Dr. Pilkington, who had been plied with questions, did his best to answer as many as possible.

In the afternoon a lecture was given by the Reverend John Gibbs, and once more we retired to our discussion rooms, after which we had tea. The Con­ference finished with the Reverend John Gibbs answering our questions and with all joining in final prayers.

We all enjoyed the day immensely and we were extremely glad that we had not missed the Student Christian Movement Conference. It was also attended by the Vlth Form from Rye.

F. STEVENSON.

THE CHRISTMAS PLAY "LITTLE WOMEN"

From the story by L. M. Alcott " Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents . . ." Once again

the famous and familiar words echoed through the Hall—the Christmas Play had begun ! Behind the scenes everyone waited anxiously for the first laugh, the first clap, or—the first disaster ! Luckily, there were no major crises—only the usual panic over lost properties, all of which adds to the fun—afterwards !

As usual, the play had been a subject of animated discussion for a long time. At the beginning of term Miss GifTord and the Dramatic Society had made their decision. Then copies of the script had to be acquired and parts allotted—a very difficult task ; but in the end all was successfully accomplished.

Then began the rehearsals, with their hours of hard work whenever they could be fitted in, but it was all worth while. Gradually parts were learnt ; actions became more natural ; self-consciousness disappeared. It was then that Rosemary Scott-Ram, as co-producer with Miss Gifford, spent most of her spare time taking rehearsals and coaching the actors. The end of term seemed to draw near very quickly, and there were the last-minute efforts to finish the clothes and perfect the speeches.

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At last the great day arrived ! Cars drew up under the library windows ; the Abbott's Hall gradually filled with an interested, expectant audience, whilst the actors, busy behind the scenes with their dressing, controlled their stage-fright and appeared cool and collected, ready to do their best.

The actual performance went off very well and was loudly applauded, much to the relief of all who had given the play so much time and thought.

The cast was as follows : Mr. March—S. Montgomery ; Mrs. March— A. Mackenzie ; Meg—J. Wareing ; Jo—V. Freeland ; Beth—L. Campbell ; Amy —W. Hutt ; Aunt March—H. Warning ; Mr. Laurence—P. Rubinstein ; Laurie —B. Martin ; Professor Frederich Bhaer—D. Watkinson ; John Brooke—J. Childs ; Hannah Mullctt—Jen. Clark.

A. KOKK KOEK, Form VI.

" MACBETH " In the Easter Term Forms V.A and VI had the good fortune to obtain

seats for the Old Vic's production of " Macbeth," and on February 26th, we, accompanied by Miss Hyder and Miss Moore, caught the train to London.

On reaching Charing Cross we trooped into the Station Hotel and had a delicious three-course lunch. After lunch, we found we were very short of time, and therefore made an extremely hurried journey by Tube, and eventually reached the Old Vic just before the play started.

Paul Rogers played the part of Macbeth very well and was a most con­vincing villain. Ann Todd was a very good Lady Macbeth, though some of us had visualised this part being taken by one of a more commanding presence. In fact, the whole play was excellent ; we all enjoyed it very much, and found it all the more interesting and enthralling because of our familiarity with the play.

After the performance we had tea in the buffet at Waterloo Station and then caught a train back to Battle, cold and tired, after a most enjoyable day.

LORNE CAMPBELL.

"KING JOHN" Acted by " Westerleigh "

Miss Hyder took the Advanced English students to a performance of Shake­speare's " King John " by " Westerleigh " Preparatory School in St. Leonards. Besides the help this gave us in studying the book, we were amazed at the won­derful performance given by the boys. Their speeches were word-perfect and their acting exceptional for such a difficult play, especially in view of the fact that all the performers were so young. The performance reflected great credit on the producer and the boys.

A. KOEKKOEK.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES CHRISTMAS TERM, 1954

In the Christmas Term, instead of any set activities, the members of Battle Abbey busied themselves making and buying Christmas presents for orphans.

This required some thought, as we had to decide what would be appropriate for girls and boys respectively, whose ages ranged from seven to sixteen years.

This activity roused great enthusiasm and was liberally supported. We are sure that many of us realised for the first time the joy that can come from bringing happiness into the lives of children who are not as fortunate as we are.

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EASTER TERM, 1955 PLAYS AGAIN!

The Illrd Form gave much thought and attention to portraying part of Robin Hood's life, including the traditional Maid Marion and Greenwood Archers. Their story was on the morbid circumstance of the outlaw's poisoning, but they nevertheless gave a charming performance which we all enjoyed.

The choice of IV.B was a great contrast—they had decided on an adaption of "The Christmas Carol," by Charles Dickens, and produced an interesting performance, in which we noticed especially a sinister Scrooge and a lively apparition.

With another completely different theme, IV.A recaptured the splendour of Arabia, acting " The Sleeper Awakened." The rich clothes especially, designed and almost entirely made by Elizabeth Riches, conveyed a truly Oriental atmosphere.

The Remove Form carried off the Cup with a praiseworthy production of " Young Howie," adapted from the book by Isobel St. Vincent. Their dress and scenery effects were very realistic, and must have gained them many marks. The other competitors did not begrudge the Cup to such enthusiastic rivals.

V.B also adapted a book. This time a more mundane subject: hospital life, from the comedy " Leave It To Florence." All the actresses entered into the spirit of the performance and seemed to enjoy themselves.

The Vlth Form, whose members do not usually produce a play, did so, and discovered a budding playwright—Ann Koekkoek—in their midst. She wrote, produced and directed the 400-line play in verse, " Pyramus and Thisbe." She also narrated parts of the play.

SUMMER TERM, 1955 By way of a change, we are having an Inter-House, instead of an Inter-

Form, competition. Each House is required to prepare six items: pressed flowers and grasses ; drawings of birds and their nests ; photographs of the Abbey and immediate vicinity ; sketches ; an enlarged Ordnance Survey map ; and a model or any other representation of the history of the Abbey.

These activities are a very good idea, as they provide interesting relaxation for the Middle School and younger members of the House—although it is some­times more hectic than relaxing for the organisers !

M I F F STEVENSON, Form VI.

MUSICAL NOTES During the past year the school has enjoyed several concerts. In October,

we went into Hastings to hear Eileen Joyce, and were very enthralled by her playing. Later in the term we were fortunate enough to enjoy a recital by Mr. Maurice Eisenberg and Dr. Keys. Mr. Eisenberg is a 'cellist and Dr. Keys a pianist. We were extremely proud to be the first to hear a new piece for piano and 'cello composed by Dr. Keys. The school also went to an educational con­cert, in which they heard how an orchestral piece is put together, and how the theme often runs from one instrument to another.

The Vlth Form have especially enjoyed their Musical Outings, and would like to thank Miss Jones for taking them to so many varied concerts and enabling them to hear such well-known musicians as Eileen Joyce, Peter Katin, Cyril Smith and Iris Loveridge ; and also to see famous conductors like Anatole Fistulari, Jean Martinon, Basil Cameron and Sir Adrian Boult.

8

The Music Society has rr.et several times this year but, most regrettably, not as frequently as last, owing to illness amongst the girls. We have, however, studied and analysed some sonatas by Scarlatti and Mozart, and have heard many wel'-known piano works played for us by Mr. Baumer and Miss Jones. We have also enjoyed many musical memory tests. Games of this type are very popular, and a regular feature of the meetings.

The Annual Carol Concert was held at the end of the Christmas Term and. as usual, followed the form of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. A few days later the whole school, led by the choir, took part by invitation in Battle Shopping Week and sang carols round the Christmas tree on the Green. We understand that this was greatly enjoyed by the inhabitants of Battle and, I think we may say, by the school.

The Easter Term ended with a Pupils' Concert given as an entertainment for the parents. The choir and elocution pupils participated in this, as well as many of the young pianists, who played pieces by such well-known composers as Chopin, Grieg and Schumann. In spite of a slight hitch at the dress rehearsal, the actual performance went smoothly and was, we think, enjoyed by all.

PATRICIA ADAM and ANGELA LAING, Form VI.

ARTS AND CRAFTS The Art and Craft Departments play an active and important part in the

cultural life of the Abbey, and their exhibits are always a special feature of Sports Day. They included paintings in powder and water colours, fabric paint­ing, leatherwork, wood carving, cane-work, weaving, etc. The girls' skill was demonstrated in a selection of jewel bcxes, evening bags, cigarette boxes, cane trays and stools—all of which won high praise from visitors. The credit for these achievements is largely due to Miss Seymour's and Miss Porter's interest and enthusiasm.

Miss Jacoby is again very kindly presenting a picture for the best sketch of the year. Last year the prize was awarded to Wendy Hutt, and Beverley Martin was such a close second that Miss Jacoby very generously gave a second picture. Two girls whose sketches were highly commended were Linette Camp-bell-Garrctt and Gillian Clark.

The weather this year has, unfortunately, not permitted much outdoor sketching, but the concentration on indoor work has resulted in a high standard of figure drawing.

ROSEMARY LARKINS and DIANA WATKINSON.

THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY This year V.A has again joined the Junior Section of the Battle Historical

Society. Unfortunately, we could only attend a few of the lectures in the Christmas Term, but we found these most interesting. Our first lecture was in October, when the Reverend Compton Dickinson spoke on the " Dissolution of the Ancient Monasteries," bringing in some very amusing points on a serious, intriguing subject. We also attended the Annual General Meeting in October, where we were entertained with lantern slides and coffee and biscuits were served.

In the Spring Term the lectures were fixed for more convenient dates, and we were able to attend four of them. These were given by Mr. G. P. Burstow, a leading Sussex archaeologist. Mr. Burstow has the great knack of making his subject " alive " to his audience, and in each lecture he certainly succeeded in bringing the past before our eyes.

9

His first lecture was on excavations he had carried out himself, and he was able to supplement his lecture with lantern slides of his own. The second and third lectures on how to recognise ancient sites and pottery, taught us a great deal about the way people lived long before the Romans, but I felt that the last lecture gave us the most food for thought. It was on the extraordinary cave-paintings at Lescaux and Les Eyzies. We had all vaguely heard of these, and were delighted to be told more about them. When we left the lecture hall we firmly decided to go there for our summer holidays !

Normally we go to various places of interest in the Summer Term, but this year it has been quite impossible to do so, as the dates have coincided with our school duties. We are going on one outing, however, to Eridge Castle, where an unusual museum of costumes from the end of the eighteenth century has just been opened.

Although we have been unable to attend many of the lectures, and it has been impossible to participate in some of the outings, we have much enjoyed our first year's membership of the Historical Society.

ANNA MACKENZIE, Form V.A.

THE DOMESTIC SCIENCE DEPARTMENT This department has been one of happy activity during the year, and the

number of girls anxious to learn dressmaking and become proficient ccoks remains steady. Great credit is due to Miss Scott-Evans for her patience and enthu­siasm and for the help she has given us in our many problems. Seven girls are taking the General Certificate Examination in Domestic Science, and we hope they will attain the ever-increasing standard required to pass this examination.

Some of the juniors show great promise in their work, and the many blouses, skirts and dresses on view on Sports Day were an index of the high standard of work and excited very favourable comments of the visitors.

ROSEMARY LARKINS and DIANA WATKINSON.

NETBALL TEAMS 1st VII

CHRISTMAS TERM, 1954 EASTER TERM, 1955 G.D. B. Martin G.D. B. Martin (Capt.) D. P. Smith D. P. Smith C D . G. Clark C D . G. Clark C. P. Adam C P. Adam C.A. M. Higton CA. M. Higton A. J. Wareing A. D. Halse G.S. C Lafone* (Capt.) G.S.

2nd VII S. Birch

G.D. D. Watkinson G.D. J. Blakstad D. J. Blakstad D. S. Montgomery C D . C. Dixon-Smith C D . C Dixon-Smith C J. McOnegal C. J. McOnegal (Capt.) CA. J. Amery CA. J. Amery A. A. Stancombe (Capt.) A. I. Thompson G.S. S. Birch G.S. S. Thomas

* Denotes Colours.

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Under 15 VII G.D. J. Childs D. G. Forster

G.D. J. Childs (Capt.) D. S. Wood

C D . J. Brown CD. B. Lock C. C. Barnett C C. Barnett C.A. J. Clark C.A. K. Harris A. D. Halsc (Capt.) G.S. S. Thomas

A. J. Clark G.S. R. Vestey

TENNIS TEAMS, 1955 1st VI UNDER 15 VI*

1st Couple : B. Larkin

1st Couple : S. Birch

S. Thomas 2nd Couple :

J. Warcing D. Halse

I. Thompson 2nd Couple :

G. Forster J. Orme

3rd Coup'e : S. Birch

3rd Couple : C. Barnett

J. Amery A. Barbour Also Played : M i. Highton

• The Under 15 Team played in these couples after alterations due to illness.

Bcwler: Back-stop : 1st Po3t : 2nd Post : 3rd Post :

ROUNDERS TEAM, 1955 J. Childs I. Thompson J. Brown B. Lock J. Woodhouse

UNDER 15 IX 4th Post ; Deeps :

A. Barbour S. Birch (Capt.) J. Morris G. Forster

LACROSSE TEAMS 1st XII

1 CHRISTMAS TERM, 1954 EASTER TERM, 1955 G. J. Turnbull • G. J. Lord P. B. Martin P. B. Martin (Capt.) C.P. P. Smith C P . P. Smith 3M. C Lafone* (Capt.) 3M. S. Westcott R.D. G. Forster R.D. G. Forster L.D. J. Amery L D . J. Amery C J. McOnegal C J. McOnegal L.A. G. Clark L.A. G. Clark R.A. I. Thompson R.A. I. Thompson 3H. J. Wareing 3H. D. Halse 2H. A. Stancombe 2H. S. Birch 1H. S, Birch 1H. S. Thomas

• Denotes Colours.

1!

UNDER 15 X n 2nd XII CHRISTMAS TERM, 1954 EASTER TERM, 1955

G. C. Bamctt G. Jen. Clark P. P. Whitehouse P. K. Harris C.P. J. Childs C.P. J. Childs 3M. S. Westcott 3M. G. Grey R.D. G. Grey R.D. D. Watkinson L.D. A. Barbour L.D. P. Adam C. Ju. Clark C. J. Carr L.A. C. Dixon-Smith L.A. A. Barbour RA. J. Brown R.A. C. Dixon-Smith 3H. R. Vestcy 3H. Ju. Clark (Capt.) 2H. D. Halsc (Capt.) 211. J. Brown 1H. S. Thomas H I . R. Vestey

MATCH RESULTS, 1954-55 CHRISTMAS TERM, 1954

DATE FIXTURE RESULTS Sept. 25th Benenden Mixed Tournament. 1st and

2nd XII's, away Oct. 2nd Lillesden. 1st, 2nd, Under 15 VH's, away. Scratched Oct. 9th Tournament at Roedean, away ... Won 2 matches

Lost 2 matches Oct. 16th Wadhurst College. 1st, 2nd, Under 15

VH's, away 1st Lost, 18-20 2nd Won, 19-12 Under 15 Lost, 10-20

Oct. 23rd Hollington Park. 1st Xn, Under 15 and Under 13 VH's, away 1st Won, 4-3

Under 15 Won, 23-16 Under 13 Won, 20-19

Oct. 30th Bedgebury Park. 1st and Under 15 XH's, awav 1st Lost, 10-0

Under 15 Lost, 4-8 Nov. 6th Half Term Nov. 13th Ancaster House. 1st XII, away Lost, 2-5 Nov. 27th Ancaster House. Under 14 and Under

13 VH's, home Scratched Dec. 4th Raven's Croft. 1st XII, Under 14 VII,

home Scratched Dec. 11th Charters Towers. 1st and 2nd VII's.

home Scratched EASTER TERM, 1955

Jan. 29th Hollington Park. 2nd XII, home ... Lost, 4-6 Feb. 5th St. Stephen's College. 1st and Under

15 XII, home Scratched Feb. 12th Wadhurst College. 1st and Under 15

XII, home Scratched Feb. 19th Ancaster House. 1st XII and Under 15

VII, home Scratched

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DATE FIXTURE RESULTS Feb. 26th Lillcsden. 2nd and Under 15 VII, home Scratched Mar. 5th Half Term Mar. 12th Micklefield. 1st and 2nd XII's, away ... 1st Lost, 18-0

2nd Lost, 3-9 Mar. 19th Convent of the Sacred Heart. 1st, 2nd,

Under 15, Under 14 VII's, away ... 1st Lost, 22-25 2nd Lost, 10-20 Under 15 Lost. 8-21 Under 14 Lost, 9-11

SUMMER TERM, 1955 May 14th Convent of the Sacred Heart. 1st and

2nd VI's, away May 21st Sussex Girls' Tournament v. Convent of

the Holy Child Jesus 1st Round Aberdare Cup, away, v. Charters Towers and Ancaster House ... Micklefield. 1st VI and Under 14 IX,

May 2Sth home June 4th Half Term June 11th St. Mary's, Baldslow. 1st IV and Under

15 IX, home

Scratched

Postponed

Won and Lost 1

Scratched

1st IV Won, 3 sets-1 Under 15 Lost, 12J-rounder-7 Lost, 5 sets-4 Lost, 2-1 Won, 5-4

June 18th Raven's Croft. 1st VI, home June 24th L.T.A. Tournament, awav June 28th Old Girls' Day *July 2nd Lillesden. Under 13 IX. Beehive

Tournament. 1st IV, away July 9th Hollington Park. 1st and 2nd VI's,

home July 16th Bedgebury Park. 1st and Under 15 VI's,

home * Matches after July 2nd have not been played at time of printing.

THE GYM COMPETITION The Gym Competition held annually in the Spring Term was this year

judged by Miss Sinclair from Bcdgebury Park School. Every form, except the Vlth Form took part in the competition. The absence of the Vlth Form was due to the small number in ihe form this year.

Before giving the final results, Miss Sinclair spoke about each form's per­formance and gave rome very helpful criticisms on its work. Again, this year, the movement of apparatus was criticised, owing to lack of observation and co-operation. Footwork was, on the whole, good, especially in the Juniors, who made a great effort to o.ercome their reputation of the previous year. The variety and execution of the vaults was commended, though in some forms this was spoilt by lack of control in landings.

The final result was that Remove won the cup with 83 points out of a maxi­mum of 100, and IV.B were the runners-up. Remove, perhaps, had a slight advantage owing to the small number in the form, but their alertness and general co-operation throughout contributed greatly towards their success.

D.R.R.

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WIMBLEDON, 1955 The morning of Monday, June 20th dawned misty and cool, but with un­

daunted hopes we wore our coolest summer dresses. Our optimism was justified, for the day became sunny and warm.

The coach set off at 10.15 a.m., with Miss Raven and Miss Batson in charge. We arrived at Wimbledon at 12.30 p.m., and ate a substantial picnic lunch on a deserted bus park. We then made our way to our seats on Court I, where, after leaving our mackintoshes and hats, we all dispersed.

Several of us went to the Centre Court, where wc were able to obtain a good view from the standing places.

Promptly at 2 o'clock, amid the growing excitement of the vast crowd, 1955 Wimbledon was opened in the traditional manner, by last year's winner of the Men's Singles, Jaroslav Drobny, who defended his title in the first match, against the Swiss player R. Buser, whom he beat in three straight sets.

The match was only the beginning of the wonderful tennis we were about to see, and we were fortunate enough to watch such players as the Americans— Tony Trabert and Vic Seixas ; Australians—Ken Rosewall, Lew Hoad and Mervyn Rose ; British—Tony Mottram, and young hopes Billy Knight, Roger Becker and Tony Pickard ; all of whom thrilled us with their tactics, spinning services, and accurate placing of volleys—the fundamentals of world-class tennis.

Much too soon, however, our day came to an end, and tired and happy we left Wimbledon, cherishing memories of 1955, and filled with anticipation of again visiting Wimbledon in 1956.

JENNIFER WAREING, Form VI.

SPORTS DAY As usual, the weather played a prominent part in the Sports Day prepara­

tions. Memories of last year, when it rained steadily all day, weighed heavily on the minds of everyone.

The day, however, dawned, and although not actually raining, it was rather dull and grey. As the school started for the games field, the rain began to fall. It did not, however, deter the competitors from participating in the events with great enthusiasm and a high competitive spirit. The parents had not been de­terred either by the grey day, and the drive was packed with cars. After a good performance from all competitors, the sports ended in another shower.

After tea we had a very interesting speech by Sir Norman Angell, who emphasised how essential it was to learn to think independently on issues of world-wide significance, such as the atomic bomb. He then presented the Sports Cup—St. Patrick's, as usual, being the winners ; with St. Mary's a close second.

During the afternoon the exhibition of Arts, Crafts and Needlework—at its usual high standard—was enjoyed by all parents, who commented on the excel­lence of the work. Thus ended the 1955 Sports Day, which was thoroughly enjoyed by competitors and spectators alike.

ANGELA LANG.

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THE EASTBOURNE COLLEGE DANCE For many weeks. Forms VI and VA prepared excitedly for the dance at

Eastbourne College on July 2nd. At the beginning of the Term it seemed such a long way off, but from Half Term, when we returned to school bringing our dance frocks with us, the time seemed to fly.

At last the day arrived, and after many preparations, we assembled in the library ready to go. The journey was soon over, and the coach, turning through the school gates, stopped outside what we thought was our destination, but boys with blank faces met us—we had arrived at the Junior department of the College !

We were directed to the right building, where the Head Boy, John Pearce, and our other hosts, greeted us, and we were soon enjoying ourselves dancing. The band was a great success, and the refreshments delicious. All too soon the last dance was over and we were bidding " farewell " to our hosts, coupled with many expressions of appreciation and thanks for a delightful evening.

MALVINA HIGTON, ROSEMARY LARKINS and ROSEMARY SCOTT-RAM.

BATTLE RE-VISITED The morning was overcast on Old Girls' Day. but the sun soon broke through

the clouds, and the rest of the day was hot, with a warm breeze blowing. Soon after lunch, the " Old " girls began to arrive and the tennis matches began. Once more it resulted in victory for the school team which, however, just won by 5-4 sets. Francis Beaton, who was in our First Team last summer, put up a wonderful show playing for the " Old " girls, and docs not seem to have lost any of her schoolgirl energy !

Although most of the afternoon was taken up with watching the tennis, people still found plenty of time to talk to their old friends and exchange the latest news.

Angela Wareing and Susan Lindup, who were unable to come and see us on " Old " Girls' Day, came the Sunday before. Angela has completed a two-year course at Norlands, and is now a fully-qualified Norland Nurse. Susan is working extremely hard for her University Entrance Examinations. Anne Glendenning has been accepted for work in the Foreign Office. Angela Ward, who was also a member of our First Tennis Team, has had wonderful success as a golfer but, unfortunately, has had to give up her tennis. Susan Marx, who always took a great interest in dress designing, is at the moment at the Paris Academy.

It was wonderful to meet the " old faces " again, and we are looking forward to seeing them next year.

JENNIFER CLARK and ROSEMARY LARKINS, Form V.A.

THE "ELECTION" IN BATTLE ABBEY The Parliamentary Election on the 26th May, 1955, was much discussed

within these ancient walls, and an atmosphere of suppressed excitement pervaded the school. As an outcome of this, Miss Guinand, our History Mistress, proposed we should have a " mock " election, and anyone willing to stand for Parliament should send in her name and credentials. A few days later, these were read to the Committee by the Chairman, who had in vain tried to make sense of these trumped-up personal histories. The persons securing the largest number of votes were then nominated as candidates for the various parties.

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After this classrooms became hives of political activity, and posters and pamphlets appeared everywhere. The Liberals endeavoured to gain voters by holding a party, but this was broken up by various members of other parties as illegal.

On Monday, the 23rd May, the Conservative candidate, Wendy Hurt, alias Sir Maximus Hurt, gave her speech, which was very good, and further convinced the extremely right-wing schoolgirls that they were on the right political path. Questions were fired at this candidate, but she found an answer to each one. On the next day came the Liberal candidate's speech, which really convinced no-one. It had been composed by two members of the Committee and the speaker—Sir Patrick Adams—<lid not really know what remark followed her last one, so she had continually to refer to her notes. She was bombarded by questions which increased in tempo but which did not yield satisfactory answers, so the Liberal cause seemed a lost one.

On Wednesday evening, the Labour candidate, Jacqueline Lord, spoke very well and convincingly. She had ready answers for all questions, and with the able support of her sister and friends, I am sure she converted many of the waver­ing supporters of the other parties. That night, the Communist candidate, Anna Mackenzie, alias Comrade Mackenhoff, arrived on the platform dressed in red and carrying a brief-case. During her speech, Comrade Mackenhoff addressed many remarks to individual members of the Staff and girls. She, too, was bom­barded with questions, and in the end, the Communists retired to the sound of much booing from the Conservative supporters.

Next day was " The Day ", so after lunch we were ushered in single file into the Library, handed our ballot popers and recorded our votes. That evening, after tea, the results were announced. As was anticipated, the Conservative Party won the election. So, after a week of excitement and much fun, the school election was over ; and when, on Friday afternoon, we learnt that in the General Election the Conservatives had won the election, we breathed a sigh of relief, for however heartily we had supported our adopted parties, none of us wanted any but the Conservative Party to win the election.

JILL MORRIS, Form V.B.

THE GIRL GUIDE YEAR For the Christmas Term, we had a new Captain and Lieutenant, Miss

Fryer and Miss Button, for our former Captain, Miss Naylor, was unable to carry on. It was not a very eventful term, although we had a lecture on the essen­tials of First Aid given us by Miss Powell. We found this most helpful, and we thoroughly enjoyed it, as Miss Powell made it so interesting.

The following Spring Term was more eventful. On February 18th we observed " Thinking Day" by having a short, simple Service. Although " Thinking Day" was officially fixed for the following Tuesday, we thought it would be better to have it earlier. Captain Fryer decided to have a Church Parade on the 27th February. For this, we chose two Patrol Leaders to carry the Union Jack and the Company Colours respectively, and also elected four seconds to escort them.

Then came the Annual Guide Meeting, which was to be held at the Guide Hut on March 16th. As usual, we were required to entertain the people present for five minutes. At first, Captain thought that it would be a good idea of we sang three campfire songs ; but we decided against it, as we were quite a small company and few of us knew many songs. So an American Square Dance

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was decided on. Finally we chose " Mademoiselle from Armentiers." This, we found, only lasted for about three minutes, and so we had to think up two or three other items to fill in the time. Out of the many suggestions, two skits were chosen. We thoroughly enjoyed acting both skiis, and the people present seemed to appreciate them. But as we had to go early, we only saw one of the other items given by the Brownies.

So far this term, there has been one event of great interest, namely the Guide Fair. On our return from the holidays, we decided to have a Pound Stall, and the Patrol Leaders purchased the goods and arranged the Stall in the Guide Hut. During the first meeting of the term we decided that we would also have competitions at the Fair, as people enjoy these so much. Five were decided upon—a Treasure Hunt ; Putting-the-Tail on the Donkey ; a Hoop-la over Bottles ; Throwing Ping-pong Balls in Jars ; and Guessing How Many Smarties there were in a Jar. The Fair started at 2.15 p.m. and the money went towards paying for the repairs of the Guide Hut roof. The Fair was well supported by the younger members of the school, and we realised £3 8s. 5d. on the Stall.

During the term we have been able to have few outdoor Guide activities, but we hope to have a hike before the end of term.

(Patrol Leader) S. CARR. (Patrol Leader) S. WESTCOTT.

DAYS IN THE SUN Last summer a group of girls and boys decided to camp on one of the many

small islands that surround Hong Kong. The one we chose was Lautau, a large island with a small village nestling in a valley close to the shore.

We set out for our destination in a launch. The weather was wonderful ; the air was hot, and as we sat in the bows dangling our feet over the side, letting the cool water rush over our bare feet as the boat ran into the waves, a slight breeze lifted the spray up and over us.

On nearing the island, we rowed ashore in the launch dinghy in relays, and our camping equipment was transported with us. Our camping site was on a flat stretch of turf flanked by trees on three sides ; the fourth side overlooked the silvery beach and the sea, so it was an ideal spot for a camp.

After we had pitched the tents we ran into the sea and swam out to the launch, from which we dived and on which we sunbathed. At one o'clock we swam ashore and had our lunch, followed by a rest in the shade out of the blazing sun. About three in the afternoon some of us decided that we would go for a tramp round the island—the others lazily preferred to stay where they were.

We set off along a goat-track, and in about five minutes reached the village. The Chinese came out to see us and the little children ran up to us laughing and chattering with each other ; the dogs, too, followed us for quite a distance out of the village, as is the way with village mongrels.

The scenery was lovely, and when we passed suddenly into the shade of the trees, there was the contrast of coolness and shade with the intense heat and glare of the open. We returned to camp hot, tired, and ready to fall into the sea again. This we promptly did, and came out thoroughly refreshed and ready for a hearty supper, which had been prepared by those who had remained behind.

That evening we built a bonfire on the beach and amused ourselves singing songs round it.

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Later on we went swimming in the moonlight. The scene was one of enchant­ment ; the night was pitch-black except for the moon and a few stars. Upon the water the fishing boats began to appear ; first one light disturbed the inky blackness, and then another and another, until the sea seemed alive with fiery balls that sent darts of light across the ripples of water.

We turned into bed tired but with the exciting prospect of another full and happy day before us, when we decided we would surf-ride round the island behind the launch, a skill which although it may appear hard to acquire is very easy in reality.

In this way we spent a lovely holiday ; every day was perfect and we had no rain to spoil our plans. Our days in the sun ended all too quickly, for on our return to Hong Kong it rained nearly every remaining day of the holidays. The monsoons had begun.

DIANA WATKINSON, Form V.A.

LAND OF ICE CREAM AND SPAGHETTI My mother and I left for Italy last April in the thick mist and rain so typical

of the English climate. On arriving at Rappallo after a long and tiring train journey, it was dark, and we gratefully climbed into bed. The next morning we woke to find a Continental sun streaming through the windows, slender palms gently swaying outside, and behind them the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

After breakfast—so much more appetising than the heavy English meal— we went out to see the sights. How drab far-away England seemed compared to this delightful little town, with brightly-painted houses and gay sunshades out­side the cafes, where the entire population sat drinking and eating the delicious ice-cream that Italy is so renowned for, and watching the people go by. Along the sea front little grey donkeys, wearing charming straw hats and bells around their necks, trotted gaily up and down giving rides ; " chanozes " jingled by, and scooters hooted madly round the corners. Everything was so alive and noisy ; everyone seemed gay and carefree. Inside the shops we admired the beautiful hand-embroidered blouses, the ridiculous hats, and lovely lace made by the old women. We bargained frantically and tried to make ourselves understood.

The Italian food certainly lived up to its reputation ; it was delicious. It is true some rather dubious-looking things were served up sometimes, but as they were usually covered with sauces, " When the eye didn't see. the heart didn't grieve ! " The spaghetti was amazing and quite exasperatingly uncontrollable, but once one does manage to convey it to the mouth without the whole portion sliding on to one's lap. it is really very good.

From Rappallo we went to Florence—the city of the great artists and art galleries, especially of Michaelangelo. We went on a conducted tour to all the great buildings, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace ; the Medici Chapels and the Baptistry of St. John, with its beautiful Door of Paradise de­picting scenes from the Old Testament ; the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in the city. Walking along this bridge was like walking into another world—a world that glittered and shimmered with gold and silver, a world so dazzling that I could only stand and stare. For here is where all the jewellers' shops are, and everything is hung outside, making a brilliant sight.

There is not enough space to write of all Florence and its wonders, but I shall never forget the truly lovely things I saw.

SARAH MONTGOMERY, Form V.A.

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A VISIT TO FRANCE On Wednesday, March 30th, we embarked on our visit to France, which

we had been planning for a long time. We boarded the plane at London Airport, were delayed, but eventually, after a smooth, uneventful flight, we arrived in Paris, where we were met by our hostess. After a meal, we went to bed, tired but with high hopes of a very happy holiday.

The next day we took courage in our hands and crossed Paris by Metro to visit the Eiffel Tower, from which we had a wonderful view of the whole of Paris ; it was a very enjoyable experience. The next two days were taken up by such incidents as visits to a French boarding school, a marionette show, and an afternoon's boating on a lake in the Bois de Boulogne.

Sunday was a most wonderful day, for we took a picnic lunch and spent the day at Versailles. The palace is a truly magnificent sight, and the splendour of the architecture and furnishings has to be seen to be believed. Monday—al­though we visited the Louvre and saw a great deal of sculpture and many beau­tiful paintings—seemed a little dull after Sunday. After a quiet day on Tuesday, we set off for the countryside of the Loire Valley, where we were to spend the rest of our visit. As is so often the case, we had the hottest day for travelling !

On arrival at the chateau we were pleased to find two French girls and one English girl of our own age, by whose company our holiday was to be much enlivened. As it was Easter, there were many small children (grandchildren of our hostess) there, so our spare moments were not dull. Easter Sunday was the highlight, for the children had an egg hunt in the garden, as is the custom in France. We helped them find their chocolate eggs, which were given into the charge of their nannies—a wise precaution !

Monday afternoon saw us at a fete in one of the nearby villages. However, this Easter week was a very quiet one, and gave us time to recover from our strenuous Parisian one.

We managed to catch our plane after a delay of two hours at Le Bourget, and arrived home after a delicious dinner at London Airport. Our only regret was that our return occurred a week too early for us to use the new buildings at London Airport.

ANGELA LANG and LORNE CAMPBELL.

THE " HALLO-XMAS " PARTY We started planning our traditional Hallow-e'en party a few weeks before

the end of the Summer Term, and in the Christmas Term hectic preparation began at once.

First and foremost in our minds, I think, was the necessity to be original. To begin with, it was decided to change the name of the party and call it " Hallo-Xmas," for really the date on which it is held is nearer Christmas than Hallow-e'en. There were four posters, one giving details of the costumes to be worn, and the other three advertising the party. We decided to provide a buffet supper, with savouries, fruits, biscuits and a fruit cocktail, consisting of fruit juice and pineapple chunks. This fruit cocktail was ladled out of a cauldron by our Hallow-e'en witches.

Witches were the predominant note in both our costumes and the decorations. As we had called the party " Hallo-Xmas," we decided to give the Abbot's Hall

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an atmosphere as ghostly as possible with Hallow e'en decorations, and the library a festive air with Christmas decorations. As hostesses, we were dressed as witches and ghosts, and the judging took place in the Abbot's Hall.

In the library we erected " Rudolph " the reindeer. This was made of wire, and then covered with cottonwool and sprinkled with glitter frost. We were in­debted to Mr. Andrews for this, and for the sleigh which Rudolph was repre­sented as pulling, and which admirably supported his long, spindly back legs. Coloured paper decorations were strung across the library, and holly and mistle­toe were suspended in the middle. In the fireplace in the Abbot's Hall we had a silhouette of two witches illuminated by night-lights ; unfortunately, it col­lapsed half-way through the proceedings ! In the middle of the Hall was the cauldron, with two witches ominously stirring their secret potion.

The party began at five o'clock and commenced with the judging of the different costumes. Our guests had been asked to come as (a) The Names of Racehorses, (b) Inn-signs, and (c) Names of Countries, and prizes were given for the most original, the best dressed, and the funniest in each section. The high standard of the costumes was commented on, and the judging was extremely difficult.

Supper was followed by a musical entertainment instead of the usual play. The prizegiving came next, Miss Sheehan-Dare very kindly giving away the prizes for us. This was a harassing moment, for everything got muddled up, although in the end the prizes seemed to reach the winners. We presented the Staff with a basket of carnations and ro:es, and although flowers do not live very long, we thought they would last a little longer than a box of chocolates !

So ended the 1954 " Hallo-Xmas " party, and we hope everyone enjoyed it as much as we did preparing it.

B. MARTIN".

WELCOME NEW PRIVILEGES To the joy of those concerned, the privileges of Bronzes, Stars and V.A

have been extended. Stars are now allowed out to tea at week-ends, either in Battle or farther afield, within walking distance (consequently all dieting has been abandoned !) It is now possible for V.A to walk in the park, and the Stars' limits are extended beyond the boundaries. V.A are also allowed to go shopping every Saturday, and it is legitimate for them to talk very quietly after " lights out." All these privileges have been greatly appreciated, and in return senior girls have been given greater responsibilities.

ELIZABETH SHARP and ELIZABETH HUDSON, Form V.A.

COLONEL BLIMP He was the most fiery colonel I had ever seen—short and stout, with reddish

hair and a bushy red moustache that curled up at the ends. His eyes were grey, and could be harsh or soft, as he wished. When he spoke to me, I felt as though he were giving me orders. He spoke in short, sharp sentences, which always seemed to end with exclamation marks. He was wearing a neat grey coat, grey trousers and a shirt and tie underneath—all immaculately clean and tidy. He was holding a short, stout walking stick, which he used as a pointer, and I felt that he would one day swing it over his shoulder and pretend it was a gun. When I was introduced to him, at one Boxing Day Meet, he was in a genial mood.

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" How do you do ? One of the best days for a hunt I ever saw, what! " I felt rather timid, and stood up as straight as I was able, feeling that if I did

not I would be soundly corrected in the presence of all. " Yes, sir, it is a good day, and hounds look well. I expect the scent will

be good." " By gad, yes! Wish I were on a horse myself. If I were a bit younger I

dare say I'd be riding every day ; but it's the old age creeping on, you know ! " " I've a good mare, but she's not up to hunting any more, and besides, she's

in foal." The colonel filled his mug with another beer, and looking at me, suddenly

shouted : " For heaven's sake, girl, stand easy ! "

ADRIAN BARBOIR, Remove Form.

QUOTABLE QUOTES Leaving School:

Standing aloof in giant ignorance. (Keats).

HomC'Sickness : What could such eyes do then But weep and weep ?

(Keats: "Lemia") . Battle Abbey :

And this our forefathers made for man ! (Coleridge : " The Dungeon " ) .

School Ru'es : Hard for the non-elect to understand.

(Keats: "Lemia") . Reflections of a Fire Whistle :

Oh thoughtless, why did I Thus violate thy slumbsome solitude ?

(Keats: "Hyperion"). During Saturday Prep. :

Once I have seen them, gentle, tame, and meek, That now are wild.

(Sir Thomas Wyatt). Dieting :

No breakfast had she many a morn, No dinner many a noon.

(Keats : " Meg Merrilies " ) . On Looking at an Examination Paper :

. . . till meaning on his vacant mind Flashed like strong inspiration.

(Shelley: "Alastor").

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Measles Epidemic : . . . and foul contagion spread.

(Milton: "Lycidae"). How to Sprint :

Come and trip it as you go, On the light fantastic toe.

(Milton: " L'Allcgro"). School Walk .-

With lips unbrightencd, wreathless brow, I stroll. (Coleridge : " Work Without Hope " j .

Lalin Teacher : This was the noblest Roman of them all.

(Shakespeare: " Julius Caesar"). Lesson on a Summer's Day :

Some of those most weary hours, When life seems emptied of all genial powers.

(Coleridge: "Work Without Hope") . Reference Library :

Thou still unravished bride of quietness. (Keats : " Ode on a Grecian Urn " ) .

The Blue Lady : Sometimes walking, not unseen.

(Milton: " L'Allegro"). Thoughts During Lining-up :

We're going in to dinner, so make all the noise you can. (Edward Shanks).

No Detention : Earth hath not anything to show more fair.

(Wordsworth : " Westminster Bridge " ) . Contributors to the Magazine :

' Their name liveth for ever', the Gateway claims (Siegfried Sassoon).

End of Lacrosse : No more of this—for now, by thee, Dear Ruth ! more happily set free.

(Wordsworth: " R u t h " ) . Careless Mark :

Given, not km, And not withdrawn—once sent.

(Meynell). End of Electricity Cut :

Out, out, brief candle. (Shakespeare : " Macbeth " ) .

Vlth Form.

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LINES IN IMITATION OF "HIAWATHA"

On the hills of Battle Abbey, On the great and lonely stretches, Lived a school of hardy pupils, Pupils diligent and happy, Eating, laughing, talking, sleeping. Happily they played together.

Downward through the evening twilight Walked the dragon, Pontihousi, Sly in every step and gesture. Made the pupils very frightened, Very brave, yet very frightened. Then the oldest Messerstrighton Very kind and very daring Stepped from out the Battle Gateway.

Thrust his sword at Pontihousi Till the blood came gushing outward, Blood so red it stained the petals Of the dandelion and daisy. So the dragon Pontihousi Sank and withered quite completely.

Then the gallant Messerstrighton Turned and faced his fellow pupils, Cried with voice that rang and echoed, " I have killed bad Pontihousi, Now return, and slumber softly."

Postscript :

Honour be to our Miss Skinner, Who has taught us all our English, Taught us nouns and verbs and phrases, Taught us how to do our Scripture, Do it well, and clean and neatly, Every phrase and every sentence, Margin ruled and date completed, Every dash and dot completed.

CAROL PINKIS, Form III.

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A LONG DAY You wake up heavy-eyed and cross,

To bells that seem to keep on ringing ; You think of all the sleep you've lost,

And hope the day will soon be bringing The peaceful dreams you long for still!

Down to breakfast then you plod, In hopes of something good to eat.

And there you sit, begin to nod, Till someone treads upon your feet

As they are walking past ! Next into prayers—a hymn, and then,

To dreary lessons off you go ! Hooray ! Hoooray ! it's break again,

'Tis true you don't feel quite so low As you did just before !

By lunch time you are feeling fine ! You quickly eat up all you can.

Next, parcels from that Mother of thine, With sweeties from your favourite Gran ;

A dear old Gran you think ! The afternoon flies gleefully,

With " prep." and tennis-coaching, too. Bang on ! it's jam and cakes for tea !

But woe ! Again it's " prep." for you, But that will not take long !

Next, supper comes and goes, so then You tear outside, a match to play.

Oh dear ! it's time for bed again ! I wish it were a longer day,

Excluding all those lessons ! JILL WOODHOISE, Remove.

TRAGEDY ON THE VILLAGE POND I told them once. I told them twice, They would not listen to advice. And when I told them to beware, They only said they didn't care. So when they set foot on the ice, They laughed and said, " It was so nice, Flying on and on around the pool." And then they said, I was a fool. Alas ! appeared a split so black, That soon became a gaping crack. And soon poor Mary's corpse was seen . . . They had to run and fetch the Dean . . . I told them once, I told them twice, They would not listen to advice . . .

ADRIAN BARBOIR, Remove Form.

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THE TRAGIC STORY OF LORD LUNDY (With apologies to Hilaire Belloc).

Lord Lundy in his infant years Was far too freely moved to tears. He fled from wasps ; he fled from bats ; And always ran away from cats. He hated spice ; he hated mice, And even cried at Monday's rice.

One day, when walking down the road, He chanced to see a little toad. He turned so green, and screamed so loud, His parents thought him ill, and vowed That he must stay in bed that day, Until the illness passed away.

Lord Lundy never left his bed For all those tears went to his head. He could not sleep, he could not eat ; His brain went numb like both his feet. And that is why this very day, Lord Lundy gently passed away.

JILIE VAN SANTEN, Form IV.A.

THE COUNTRYSIDE The water rippled quietly on, The willow bent its weeping boughs, The sloping country swept for miles With thick green grass and country stiles. The golden eagle, rare and fine, Soared high above his rocky ledge. A bleating lamb called pitifully, The peeping ewe looked through the hedge. The air was getting colder now, The heat of day had caused a haze ; The grass was short and stubby where The shepherd let his small flock graze. The black rooks flying overhead, The cricket chirping in the grass, The sheepdog running on ahead, The lake shone like a sheet of glass. The sun sank low beneath the hills. The Evening Star shone through the sky ; And as the owl called through the night The clouds above slipped quietly by.

SARAH WITHERS, Form V.B.

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HOUSEWIFE'S CHOICE! Domestic Science—that's what I say, You work hard and it does pay. The most important subject, too, Although there is a lot to do— To brush the floor, to wipe the table, To clean the sink if you are able. To go quietly past the inner door Of the Principal's room on the very same floor ; To change your shoes, and " Do be quick For Miss Scot-Evans'll be here in a tick." Get pastry board and rolling pin, And bowl to make the pastry in ; Turn on the oven quick or fast, And oh, we're ready at long last * A little talk before we begin, Of what ingredients to put in. Then dashing around as quick as lightning, For Miss Scot-Evans can be positively frightening .' " You've done that wrong to make a stew ; And dear, oh dear ! you've made lumps, too ! " But do we mind ? Not a bit! Domestic Science keeps you fit!

IARNE THOMPSON, Form V.B.

IN THE Vlth FORM Many a year have we been here ;

'Tis many a long day in this school Since first we came, with every fear,

And started then to learn each rule.

And meanwhile we've learnt of Tobruk, Of brave Nelson and far Quebec,

And many things out of a book, And how many pints make a peck.

We've studied a Latin grammar, Read Csesar and Cicero, too ;

Learnt many a poet's manner, Tried Shakespeare all the way thro'.

We've heard of old Pythagoras, Drawn many a circle and square ;

Had many a lesson given us On flowers or the trees over there.

But now the time has come to leave, To leave behind these years passed here ;

Perhaps some day we'll come to grieve That school is no more quite so near.

A. KOEKKOEK.

26

"A GAY LIFE?"

Sixth Form students gay are we, But our lives are not so free. Our Houses' conduct marks galore Make our hearts feel very sore. And we must bring out book and pen To write Detention Lists again ; To make the page as short as poss., And count each " connie " as a loss. House meetings are the things we dread-— (We would much rather stay in bed !) As well as making many a speech. We try, in vain, the rules to teach. But 'though this life does not sound gay, To leave Sixth Form is our dismay.

JENNIFER WAREINC; and ANN KEOKKOEK. Form VI.

REMINISCENCES OF EARLY SCHOOL DAYS

I was dragged to the station, and pushed in the train, 'Though I kept telling Mummy I had such a pain ! I wanted to cry, but I didn't quite dare, For people were looking, and how they did stare ! I was pushed in a carriage with several strange girls, With brown basin hats and long floppy curls ; And armed with my lax stick and cases galore, I missed the soft seat and fell on ihe floor !

Our journey completed, we charged for the coach, The driver took cover on seeing our approach ! We turned the near corner and bounced through the gate, And there right before us saw our future fate. This really was i t ! Our Term had begun. And life in the Third Form was ever such fun !

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OCTAG. DORMITORY.

OBITUARY DR. H. A. LANE

It was with very great regret that wc heard of the death of Dr. Lane on the I8th April, 1955. Dr. Lane had been associated with the Abbey for many years, for he was the school doctor from 1925 to 1940, when the school was evacuated to Devon.

His career was one of great variety and selfless service to his profession. After devoting a few years to hazardous work among a community in Newfound­land, he returned to the East End of London for work among the poor, which was the main work of his life.

Dr. Lane was a great lover of the countryside, and in 1950 returned to spend his retirement in Battle. His life of service and of devotion to duty is one that wc should all strive to follow,

M. R. HYDER.

MADEMOISELLE JUNOD

With the death of Mile. Junod, Battle Abbey has lost a valued friend of many years' standing.

" Ozelle," as she was affectionately called by her colleagues, came to us in 1929, having previously taught in Northern Ireland and for some years at Malvern. At once her forceful personality made itself felt, and though some rebelled at her uncompromising attitude about what she felt to be right, they came eventually to recognise and appreciate the excellence of her teaching, her sympathy, kindliness and humour. Who that knew her will ever forget her joyous and most infectious laugh ? She could also be stern, as many of her old pupils will remember, but they learnt French, and the sternness was due to an intense desire that everyone should be enabled to do her best.

She was Swiss, of the " Old School," and her nationality was a source of great pride to her. The courage which took her as quite a girl to a teaching post in Brazil, when that country was farther away than it is to-day, and which carried her bravely through a good deal of illness in her later years, was one of her outstanding characteristics.

She was a Christian lady of great integrity who never forgot, or lost interest in, her friends. It is so that we like to remember her, and feel the better for having known her.

M. K. GlFFORD.

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