THE GATEWAY Battle Abbey School Magazine

1958

KEEPING PACE WITH TIME Many of life's problems are of our own making—the result of false

judgments or of bad choices—but a few are not, and one of these is presented by the passing of the years. As Alice so rightly says to Humpty Dumpty. *' One can't help growing older."

If that were all, decisions would be comparatively easy to make, but the natural passage of time brings with it not only changes within but external ones in the shape of new demands. Some of those affecting education just now are due to the increase in the number of children who need to be taught and to the efforts on the part of authorities to meet that need; but we do not know what fresh demands the future may hold.

We thought it wise to take now those steps which seemed, in our judgment, best calculated to preserve the School's individuality and its special character, and to ensure, as far as possible, its continuity. No one can do this better for us than those who have known its history and traditions from inside and have added to this knowledge experience gained from the exercise of their loyalty and of their devotion to its best interests throughout the years.

Our thoughts therefore turned first towards our Old Girls' Club, and it is a great happiness to us that the four senior members of its Committee have taken on the responsibility of becoming governors and have already formed the nucleus of the Board which will administer the School as a public school.

I can hardly leave the subject of changes brought about by time without telling you that Miss Seymour is bringing her long term of service to the School to an end this July. She came to us (at Bexhill) in 1915 and has been with us ever since except for an interval which included the "war" years. This brief foreword is not the place in which to attempt to say anything about her work, but when I see the energy and enthusiasm which still go into her teaching I find it hard to believe that she feels that she too is " growing older." She certainly is not doing so in spirit: perhaps the true artist never does.

HELEN SHEEIIAN-DARE.

SPRING Spring is such a lovely thing, When all the birds do gaily sing. In city parks are daffodils, Also on people's window-sills. In the country flowers are out, And happy children laugh and shout. The trees are a lovely colour green, And everything smells so fresh and clean.

ANNE SHAND, Form Ilia. i

GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION 1958 ADVANCED

Susan Birch Bridget Lock Wendy Hutt Suzanne Westcott

ORDINARY B. E. J. de Hillcrin R. V M. Holding W. N Hutt P. M Hudson B. Lock R. D. Noel-Clarke E. A. M. Barbour J. Orme F. D. Barker E. A. Peters D. V. Barwell E. J. M. Scott J. Brown C. A. Sparrow J. H. Clark S. J. rhomas P. A. Connolly H. R Warning G. J. Forster J. J. Watkins A. L. A. Goddard J. L. Woodhouse K. W . Harris D. M Worley

] MUSIC EXAMINATIONS 1957—58 PIANO PRACTICAL

Grade VI. E.Sinclair .. . Pass „ v. D. Jehangir ... . . . Distinction ,, II. D. Geoffrion ... Pass ,. i. R. Braby Pass

THEORY OF MUSIC Total Marks 99 Grade V. M. Heseltine Va 97

M v. C. Tail Va 95 r V. J. Wright ... Va 95 f v. D. Birch ... Va 94 , V. D. Jehangir Va 93 t IV. J. Orme Vb 94 , III. A. A-Clark Vb 96

III. G. Oxlcy ... IVa 93 t III. J. Thomas ... IVa 72 , II. T. Compton IVb 99 _ II. M. Dups IVb 97 t II. T. Bowley ... IVb 90 lf I. V. Brown ... Ilia 99 _ I. P. Wright ... Ilia 97 t I. L. Auster Ilia 93

I. K. Legg ... Ilia 93 I. D. Street ... Ilia 91 I. C. Vintras ... Ilia 91

, I. B. Field Ilia 89 , I. S. Shippam ... Ilia 83 . I. I. de Hillerin Ilia 73

SOLOISTS AT THE PARENTS' CONCERT, APRIL, 1958 J. Brown. G. Forster. E. Sinclair. D. Jehangir. C. Tait. A. Goddard.

D. Birch. G. Campbell (vocal); J. Benson. J. Orme, A. Atkinson-Clark (recorder); B. Bomash. T. Bowley, T. Compton, B. Wood, V. Brown. P. Wright. C. Vintras.

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THE MUSIC COMPETITIONS This was postponed from December 12th to March 1st owing to the

" flu epidemic." The School exams were over, and our one ambition was to win the scroll

or the cup. We had all been practising hard, until the day arrived. A list of our times had been put up. but it was soon changed when Mr. Denis Dance, the adjudicator, who is a Professor at the Guildhall School of Music. arrived early. Eventually our turn came round; we walked into Mr. Baumer's room, sat down, and started to play. After a few bars of the set piece, we started to regain confidence.

At last everybody finished playing and we waited in anticipation to know who had won. About half an hour before lunch, we were all called into Miss Sheehan-Dare's sitting-room, where Mr. Dance read out the results and added his own comments. The Junior Scroll was won by J. Orme. with D. Birch a very near second; and the Senior Cup resulted in a tie between J. Brown and D. Jehangir. followed by C. Tait.

We wish to give our thanks to Mr. Dance, who very kindly spared us the time to come and judge the Competitions.

BEVERLEY BOMASII and STEPHANIE POIRIER. Form Vb.

HEADS OF HOUSES St. Mary's ... H. Warning St. Patrick's .. . A. Goddard St. Etheldreda's R. Noel-Clarke St. Martin's .. . E. Browning

VICE-HEADS Judith Brown Judith Vines Deena Jehangir

BRONZES H. Warning A. Goddard R. Noel-Clarke E. Browning J. Brown M. Heseltine J. Vines D. Jehangir D. Barwcll D. Birch G. Forstcr C. Reed S. Oxley

GAMES CAPTAINS St. Mary's .. . Judith Brown St. Martin's ... Wendy Riches St. Etheldrcda's ... Gay Field St. Patrick's .. . Carole McOnegal

MATCHES FROM JUNE 22nd, 1957 June 22nd.—1st IV St. Mary's Baldslow (A). Won 4-0

B. & C. VI v. Benenden 3rd and 4th VI (A). Lost 3-4 U.15 VI v. Convent of Holy Child Jesus Maylield (H). Lost 2-1

July 6th — July 13th.—1st IV Beehive Tournament (A). Won Cup with Beresford

House U.15 and U.14 v. Convent of the Sacred Heart (A). Won 5-4

Won 7-2 July 20th.—Ancaster House 1st and 2nd VI (H). Scratched

AUTUMN TERM 1957 Oct. 5th.—1st XII v. St. Mary's Baldslow (H). Scratched Oct. 12th.—1st XII Mickleficld Tournament (A). Scratched Oct. 19th.—1st XII v. Benenden 3rd XII (A). Scratched Oct. 26th.—1st and U.15 XII v. Bedgebury Park (A). Scratched Nov. 2nd.—Half-term. Nov. 9th.—1st and 2nd XII v. Moira House (H). Scratched Nov. 16th.— 1st and 2nd XII v. Warren Worthing (A). Scratched

U.13 VII v. Hall House Lillesden (A). Won 12-3 Nov. 23rd.—1st and 2nd XII v. Micklelield (A). Lost 8-3

Lost 16-0 Nov. 30th.—1st and 2nd XII v. Lillesden (A). Won 2-1

Lost 2-3 Dec. 7th.—1st XII v. St. Mary's Baldslow (H). Scratched Dec. 14th.—1st and 2nd XII v. Hollington Park (H). Scratched

EASTER TERM 1958 Jan. 26th.—1st. 2nd and U.14 VII v. Convent of Sacred Heart (A). Scratched Feb. 1st.—1st and 2nd XII v. Warren Worthing (A). Won 4-3

Drew 2-2 Feb. 8th.—1st and 2nd XII v. Ancaster House (A). Lost 5-4

Lost 10-1 Feb. 15th.—1st. 2nd and U.14 VII v. Ancaster House (H). Lost 22-7

Lost 11-7 Lost 14-10

Feb. 22nd.—1st XII Benenden Tournament (A). Scratched Mar. 1st.—U.13 VII v. Buckswood Grange (H). Scratched Mar. 8th.— Mar. 15th.—1st. 2nd and U.14 VII v. Lillesden (H). Scratched Mar.22nd.—1st and U.15 VII v. St. Mary's Baldslow (H). Won 17-2

Won 22-2

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SUMMER TERM 1958 May 3rd.— May 10th.—Aberdare Cup. Ancaster House and Hollington Park (A).

Scratched May 17th.—Aberdare Cup. 1st VI v. Ancaster House (A). Lost 6-2 May 24th.—1st and 2nd VI and U.14 IX v. Kent College (H). Won 7-2

Won 8-1 Won 7 H i

May 31st.—Sussex Girls' Schools U.15 VI v. Roedcan (A). Lost 5-4 June 7th.—Half-term. June 14th.—U.I5 and U.14 VI v. Convent of Holy Child

Jesus Mayfield (H). 1st and U.15 VI v. St. Mary's Baldslow (H). Old Girls (H).

June 21st. June 28th. July 5th. July 12th.—1st IV Beehive Tournament (A).

Not played at time of

going to press.

1st and 2nd L A C R O S S E T E A M S WINTER TERM 1957

1st XII 2nd XII Catriona Tait G. Penelope King Saffrey Oxley P. Anthea Goddard Wendy Riches C.P. Janet Jempson Julia Orme 3 M . Hilary Keating Judith Brown (Capt.) L.D. Elizabeth Hughes Jane Wright R.D. Penelope Ivor-Jones Gillian Forster C. Gay Field Carole McOnegal L.A. Jane Browning Diana Birch R.A. Elizabeth Roston Priscilla Boot 3H. Judith Vines (Capt.) Helene Warning 2H. Josephine Barton Susie Holt 1H Robina Blakelock

SPRING TERM 1958 1st xn 2nd XII

Catriona Tait G. Penelope Dickson (Lisa Smedley) Saflrey Oxley P. Mary Heseltine Wendy Riches C.P. Janet Jempson Julia Orme 3M. Hilary Keating Judith Brown (Capt.) L.D. Carol Barley Jane Wright R.D. Penelope Ivor-Jones Gillian Forster C. Gay Field Diana Birch L.A. Jane Browning Carole McOnegal R.A. Prudence Howard Priscilla Bool 3 H . Judith Vines (Capt.) Helene Warning 2H. Josephine Barton Susie Holt 1H. Teresa Vintras

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NETBALL TEAMS WINTER TERM 1957

Under 13 VII

s. Tina Compton A. Susan Vines (Capt.)

A.C. Virginia Brown C. Philippa Lancaster

DC. Penelope Wright D. Tessa Bowley

G.K. Qucneltla Clegg SPRING TERM 1958

1st VII 2nd Ml SalTrey Oxley S. Josephine Barton Diana Birch A. Jane Browning Jane Wright A.C. Caroline Rennic Judith Brown (Capt.) C. Susie Holt Helene Warning D.C. Jacqueline Cable-Alexander Julia Ormc D. Catriona Tait (Claire Rump) Gillian Forster G.K. Gay Field

Under 14 VII S. Susan Vines

A. Wendy Riches (Capt.) A C . Prudence Howard

C. Gay Oxley DC. Patricia Bathe

D. Deirdre Geoffrion G.K. Margot Simmons

1st and 2nd TENNIS TEAMS SUMMER TERM 1958

1st VI 1st Couple—

Judith Brown (Capl.) Gillian Forstcr

2nd Couple— Wendv Riches Jane Wright

3rd Couple -Diana Birch Susie Holt

Under IS

2nd VI 1st Couple—

Helen.- Warning (Capt.) Priscilla Boot

2nd C o u p l e -Gay Field Jane Browning

3rd Coup le -Carole McOncgal Josephine Barton

2nd Couple— Prudence Howard Patricia Bathe

1st Couple— Wendy Riches (Capt.) Josephine Barton

3rd Couple— Penelope Ivor-Jones Caroline Rennie

TENNIS COLOURS AWARDED SUMMER 1957 Gillian Forster Judith Brown Susan Thomas Susan Birch larne Thompson Judith Clark

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ROUNDERS TEAM SUMMER TERM 1958

Under 14 IX B. Prudence Howard

B.S. Sheelagh Graeme 1st P. Gay Oxley

2nd P. Tina Compton 3rd P. Margot Simmons (Capt.) 4th P. Susan Vines 1st D. Caroline Vintras

2nd D. Rosanne Braby 3rd D. Virginia Brown

At first glance we seem to have had a full fixture list for the last year. but when looking more closely we see that many matches have been cancelled.

Unfortunately, the cancellations for the first half of the season were due to an epidemic of Asian 'flu and then, having recovered from the " plague." as it was commonly called, the elements were against us and more matches had to be cancelled because of bad weather.

However, we must hope for good weather in the coming year and no epidemics, and look forward to a year of matches with no cancellations.

D. RODWAY.

MY IMPRESSIONS OF THE HASTINGS FESTIVAL On Friday, 21st March. Tina Compton and 1 left Battle for the Hastings

Festival. We were both feeling very nervous as it was our first experience of playing in public.

When we arrived at the White Rock Pavilion we went to collect Virginia Brown's certificate. She had won 80 marks in the Under 12 Piano class. After that we went to look at the hall in which Tina was to play. There was a large stage with a grand piano set diagonally with a stool, and black and yellow curtains behind. It was nearly time for Tina's Under 13 class, so we went to sit down. Tina didn't play until quite near the end, so by the time her turn came, I knew her piece pretty well ! She won 79 marks, playing " Scaramouche " by Mr. Baumer.

After that we went down to the lower hall in which I was to play. This was smaller and rather stuffy: also the piano did not seem as good as the one on which Tina had played. As my turn drew closer I became more and more nervous. At the end the judge awarded marks and commented on our playing. To my surprise I had won 83 marks, coming fourth, the highest being about 90.

Earlier in the week Sally Coote-Robinson and Gay Campbell had competed in the Under 16 Singing class. Gay coming a close second and Sally fifth. Judy Brown had competed in the Under 16 Piano competition.

TESSA BOWLEY, Form IVb.

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HASTINGS INTERNATIONAL CONCERT FESTIVAL 1958

In May. Forms Va and VI were most fortunate in being able to go to the International Music Festival in Hastings.

The Russian concert included music by Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky. conducted by Fistoulari. The soloist in the popular Rachmaninoff piano concerto was Ronald Smith, who gained enthusiastic applause from the audience.

At the Viennese night there were two soloists—Heather Harper (soprano) and David Galliver (tenor), who sang beautifully, but at times seemed rather overpowered by the orchestra, the London Philharmonic, conducted by Susskind. The programme included the overture " Die Fledermaus," " Tales from the Vienna Woods," " The Pizzicato Polka," and other popular pieces.

We went to a two-piano recital given by Cyril Smith and his wife Phyllis Scllick. Although as a result of a stroke in 1956 Cyril Smith has lost the use of his left hand, he and his wife have arranged the music for three hands. without omitting a single note.

Three of us went to a lecture and concert of Schubert's A minor string quartet, which is one of our G.C.E. set works. We found the original remarks by Isolde Menges. the leader, interesting and often amusing.

We are all most grateful to the Principals and Miss Tetley for allowing us to attend these concert.,-, for we have enjoyed them thoroughly.

M. HESELTINE. Form Va.

DRAMATIC SOCIETY'S PLAY CHRISTMAS TERM 1957

The Christmas Term had rolled round once again, and as usual a School play had to be decided upon. The fact that we had several early 19th century costumes ready-made from the previous year gave " She Stoops to Conquer " an advantage over other suggestions, so we finally decided to do Goldsmith's play. We had just about cast the play when the 'flu epidemic caught up with us, which unfortunately postponed our rehearsals considerably. However, we duly began them at the beginning of November, leaving us only six weeks in which to complete them !

The casting had not proved too difficult, the main parts falling mostly to those who had already acted in the School play before, but Miss Gifford thought girls from the lower forms of the School should be given smaller parts, so after a few trials, they were chosen.

As time was so short, rehearsals were squeezed in whenever possible. mostly after supper, and Miss Gifford very kindly gave up much of her spare time to help us. I am sure everyone enjoyed these rather hectic evenings. with bells clanging just at the wrong moments.

After a few weeks, the play took some form and we began to act more naturally. When the dress-rehearsal came round, it caused some panic and everyone felt hot and uncomfortable under ticklish wigs, long skirts, and cravats. When the day finally arrived, nothing too " drastic" happened. apart from a few backstage mishaps.

8

When the curtain fell for the last time, we were all half-relieved that it was over, yet half-sorry, for it had been fun, despite everything. We hope that the audience enjoyed it as much as we did in acting it. We would like to thank the producer. Miss Gifford, very much, for all her hard work, help and encouragement which contributed so greatly to the success of our play.

HELENE WARNING. Form VI. CAST

Mr. Hardcastle D. Birch Mrs. Hardcastle G. Green Tony Lumpkirt C. Tait Landlord C. Lund Hastings J. Brown Marlowe H. Warning Kate Hardcastle G. Campbell Constance Neville C. Catley Sir Charles Marlowe R. Noel-Clarke Pimple ... S. Coote-Robinson Diggery S. Holt Servants C. Reed. J. Box. J. Benson. J. Street

FORM PLAYS Form plays are held once a year and they cause great excitement

throughout the School, for this means that the forms, one by one, prepare the play which has been set by Miss Gifford.

This year, the Juniors were given "Caliph for a Day " and the Seniors a short scene from "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Rehearsals began, and parcels began to arrive with material for the costumes. Everybody was busy thinking about what scenery to use.

At last the day arrived for Forms 111b. Ilia and IVb to do their plays; these were very good. The following day IVa and Vb acted their plays, which were also very well produced.

The Staff judged IVa's to be the best because their scenery, costumes and production were so attractive; also, they worked very well as a form.

LISA SMEDLEY, Form Vb.

THE HUNTED STAG Faster, this way, that way. bending. He whose breath the air was rending Under torn flesh muscles lending One last power he knew was ending. He the stag could only run. Wondering when his end would come. Now the hounds' loud baying sounded, Now he knew he was surrounded. Children calling. " Look, they've found it," Horses' hooves on heather pounded. Rigidly he stood his ground While the killers leapt around.

CATHERINE READ, Form IVb.

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GUIDE ACTIVITIES This year, although a few people have not been able to keep on Guides.

we have had many more recruits, and now have twenty-two people. We now have four Patrols—Chaffinch, Blue-tit, Swallow, and Kingfisher.

This year has been very active. Several people were enrolled in the Winter Term, a few in the Spring, and a few are nearly ready now. At the end of the winter we made a patchwork rug for a disabled Guide.

On March 7th we went to Ninfield to hear a talk given by a Commissioner from Sarawak. We also saw some photos.

On March 21st we went to the Annual General Meeting at the Guide Hut. and three people were enrolled, as a demonstration to the town.

On March 31st a training van, which was touring Sussex, came to our meeting and, using us as " dummies." gave a demonstration meeting to other Guides and Guldens.

On June 5th there is a Guide Competition which wc are going in for; we do not. as yet. know what wc have to do.

On June 28th we are having a stall at a Garden Fete at Cauldbec Hill. On July 12th we are going camping for the week-end. About once a month we have a Court of Honour. This is where the

Patrol Leaders and Seconds get together and discuss plans. One Monday when it is fine we are going out for a supper-hike so that

a few people can pass their 2nd Class. We now have six people with 2nd Class, four with Gymnast badge, five with Hostess, one with Laundress. one with Horsewoman's, and one with Reader's.

P. L. ANNE ATKINSON-CLARK. Form Vb.

SIR RICHARD GREENE 1. A gallant knight. Sir Richard Greene.

Dressed in scarlet and marine, With a sword by his side and a spear in his hand. Went riding and fighting through all the fair land.

2. Singing and fighting so gallant and brave, Fighting with lance, with sword and with stave. And helping the peasant so poor and so mean. Was ever so gallant as Sir Richard Greene?

3. One day he fought at a joust so gay. Singing and shouting a roundelay. When a knight rode up. he was clad all in while. Readv and willing to challenge a fight. So Sir Richard Greene laid his lance in rest And charged, but alas ! the white knight proved best. Now Sir Richard Greene is dead and gone, To a life higher up and step further on.

M. DUPS. Form IVb. i c

Va GEOGRAPHY EXCURSION On May 7th, Miss Searles and her four Va pupils went by taxi for an

outing to Lewes, which was kindly arranged for us by Miss Gifford. Our route took us south-westwards across the Battle Ridge, and just

before reaching Wartling we all caught a quick glimpse of the Royal Observatory's new buildings at Herstmonceux.

We then crossed the flat, open Pevensey Levels, which was a definite contrast to the Ridge, as it has numerous drainage channels, and many beef cattle and sheep feed there.

After seeing vast expanses of shingle at Pevensey Bay. we drove along the front at Eastbourne and were able to study its position at the foot of the eastward-facing scarp of the South Downs.

We then went up this slope on to the Downs and were able to see many of the chief characteristics of chalk country, such as dry valleys, short grass, and very few trees except for the Forestry Commission's plantations.

After going down abruptly into the Cuckmere Valley we saw the striking meanders of this river. We had an even better view of these from a river cliff higher up the valley.

Driving through Seaford we saw the harbour of Newhaven on the opposite shore. We then turned northwards along the plain of the River Ouse. Just before arriving at Lewes we saw cement works usine the local chalk.

We stopped in the town and climbed the Downs to have our picnic tea and to look at its position as a gap town.

We returned to Battle on a more direct route, getting excellent views of the north-eastward-facing scarp of the Downs and noticing foot settlements.

Towards six o'clock we arrived back at School after a most enjoyable afternoon's field work which, we are sure, will help us with our Ordnance Survey work.

DIANA RUDLER and SAFFERY OXLEY. Form Va.

FIRST ARRIVAL Everyone and everything was silent that evening, on the lonely farm. The moon came out from behind a solitary cloud, and the whole

farm was outlined by its powerful beams. Somewhere in the wood an owl hooted, frightening a tiny mouse who

stood, daintily poised on the end of a rake; suddenly the owl flew over the farm, and in a second had the little mouse in its powerful claws.

But still the cows in the shed did not make a sound, nor did the remainder of the animals. It was as if they were expecting something. . . .

Then, from the field opposite the farm, came a feeble " baa-a-a." All at once the animals raised their voices with one accord, and the

silence of the February night was shattered, as every creature seemed to compete with the others to make the most sound.

For somewhere in that field opposite the farm, the first lamb of the season had been born !

J. MCNEILL, Form IVa. I !

A VISIT TO GLYNDEBOURNE On Wednesday the 14th of May, the majority of Va and Miss Guinand

left on an outing with the Historical Society to Glyndebourne Theatre, and Glynde Place, the manor of the local village.

When we arrived at Glyndebourne Theatre, the owner and founder. Mr. Christie, explained a little of the theatre's history, and its aim. which was "perfection in all," notwithstanding the cost. Then one of the stage managers showed us round the theatre, behind the scenes, and under the stage—which was being painted for their first performance a few weeks ahead—and finally the dressing-rooms.

The theatre was extremely impressive, certainly living up to its aim of perfection, both in the choice of decor and in the seating arrangements. The seat.; are placed so as to give each person a perfect view of the stage. which itself is the same size as the large auditorium.

We then visited Glynde Place, a lovely old Tudor house, and after a delightful tea. we were shown round by a guide.

The house itself has been owned by four families only, and has been passed down through these by direct inheritance. It contains several valuable pieces, including three famous brass ornaments; also the original sketch by Rubens for the Banqueting Hall. Whitehall.

We returned to Battle at 7 o'clock after a delightful day. WENDY RiCHES, Form Va.

A VISIT TO BURWASH On Wednesday the 28th of May, Miss Fentum and six Va's left with

the Historical Society on an excursion to " Batemans," " Rampyndene." and Burwash Church.

On arrival at " Batemans." Rudyard Kipling's charming 14th century home—made over to the National Trust on his death—we were shown round by a guide.

The house itself was extremely attractive and held many of Kipling's personal items, including his metal ink-well on which he scratched the titles of all his books when he linished them, his many Indian possessions and several portraits of his wife and of himself. We also walked round the attractive gardens.

Then after an appetising tea at the Bear Inn, we were shown round " Rampyndene," the local William and Mary house. This is one of the only four of its kind left in England. The owner very kindly showed us round, pointing out especially the beautifully ornate ceilings in the hall and landing.

Next we visited the local church and had its history explained to us by the vicar, and by the verger who took us up to the belfry and to the top of the tower, where we saw the bells themselves and the mechanism of the old church clock.

Wc returned to Battle at 7 o'clock after an extremely interesting day. WENDY RICHES. Form Va.

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HALLOWEEN This year's Hallowe'en fancy dress party was held, as usual, by Va. They managed expertly, partly owing to their excellent form-captain.

The library looked wonderful. There were turnips made into lights, fairy lights of different colours, and two witches, on broomsticks, looking down from the ceiling, carrying mistletoe.

Also there were stalls where we could get ices and Coca-Cola. The shelves wer? decorated with leaves, and the curtains had little glittering stars which were stuck to them.

When we entered the library many of us stood spellbound. In the corner nearest the door was a wheel on which several witches danced. At 5.30 everyone went to the Abbot'i Hall for the fancy-dress parade. We had to go under one of four titles—" Under the Sea." " T.V. Characters." " Towns " and " Nursery Rhymes."

When we had been given a number, we were told to walk slowly round the Abbot's Hall. Meanwhile. Va took down notes on the various costumes. After the parade, we all went into the library for a short time, where we danced. Then each form in turn was called back to the hall for supper.

Afterwards we went back to the library for the prize-giving. Much to our delight and surprise, my friend and I got second prize in Senior " Towns."

Very kindly. Miss GifTord. our headmistress, gave us permission to go to bed at 9 o'clock, instead of 8.15. Then we went to bed. thinking of the wonderful time wc had had and thanking Va for everything that they had done for us.

BRIDGET WOOD. Form IVa.

THE OLD SHEPHERD Afar upon the slopes of Dayhey.

Abode an old. old shepherd. He had a dog, up there, they say, And many a cat has purred up there. And many a cat has purred.

Afar upon the slopes of Dayhey, Fell ill an old. old shepherd. His dog was puzzled then, they say. And his sheep escaped their fold, up there, And his sheep escaped their fold.

Afar upon the slopes of Dayhey. Died an old. gentle shepherd. His dog was brought to live, they say. With the doctor's daughter Fay. nearby, With the doctor's daughter Fay.

Afar upon the slopes of Dayhey. An old. old dog longs to be. To rush between the flowers of May And his master again to see. up there, And his master again to see.

MARGOT SIMMONS. Form IVa.

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MUSIC Music is something very beautiful. " It is the voice of God." as some

great man said. Every country has its own characteristic music. They all have their folk songs, dances and military tunes. It seems to liven people up. and add more essence to life.

Rhythm is of the greatest importance in music. In India, for instance. two rhythms can be drummed together, with more subtle effects even than those Stravinsky sought in " The Rite of Spring." That work reminds us of the ritual significance of dancing.

Ceremonial dancing is a great outlet for savage emotions—particularly that of fear, which controlled man's dim mind for so long.

As man's intelligence widened, folk-songs grew up by word of mouth They passed on from peasant to peasant, who learned them by ear. Simple folk have marvellous memories. In India, fclk-jongs still play a big part in our lives. The songs often sung at feasts and, perhaps, weddings are stories put to music from the Ramayona and the Mokoyona. The Ramayona is the life of Rama and Sita, and the Mokoyona (the great Vehicle) contains the Buddhist doctrines and dates from Asoko's time to the Christian Era.

On any excuse whatsoever, we like to feast and make merry, which means that we must have music. There are tunes also to which our men marched to war. and to which many children of the present day have performed mass drill displays for a visitor to India or for our own Prime Minister. Mr. Nehru, and other leading officials.

Indian music, as any other music, conveys feelings beautifully. In Indian films, music plays one of the most important parts. If a tragedy takes place in the life of the heroine, she will break into song and sing of her sorrows. On the other hand, if the actors wish to express joy, they will dance and sing brightly to the strong rhythming drums and bells.

Thus the folk-songs, dances and marches are all great appreciated in India and arc very different from music, as a whole, in England. English music comes under the Western category, whereas our music. I can be proud to say. comes under the ancient category of Eastern or Oriental music. It is immortal, and will never die.

DEENA JEHANGIR, Form Va.

TO BE A DUCK I wonder what my life would be

If I were a duck. I would not be able to swim to sea.

If I were a duck. But I'd swim among the rushes tall And wait and hear the pigeons call.

If I were a duck. I wonder if I'd fly at all,

If I were a duck. Or would I watch the waterfall?

If I were a duck. But I'd quack and quack ! I'm certain of that!

If I were a duck. CAROLINE VINTRAS, Form Ilia.

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WHAT IS THIS LIFE IF, FULL OF CARE, WE HAVE NO TIME TO STAND AND STARE !

How few people realise what a beautiful world we live in. How few people have the time, or can be bothered to stop and think, amidst the humdrum life wc lead, what perfect serenity and beauty our planet has. We begin to understand what inspired such great poets as Byron and Shakespeare, who wrote such moving words, when we look around us at the world we live in. To-day, the newspapers are full of rebellion and turbulence and poverty, but how seldom is the time one stops to read the brighter sid; of life, the beauty and the peace.

For example, through the ages man has created a world not only of sticks and stones, bricks and bones, of machines and electricity, and of discipline and deceit—but of beauty : beauty that with the help of God can never be destroyed despite wars and revolutions.

I am in myself a very average human being, deceitful, undeserving, pompous, carefree and luxury-loving; also, as the greater percentage of this world, unobservant. But there are times, as this one particular evening I am about to describe, when I am not that creature at all. but a new person. that person that lies deep down in the heart of every human.

I had strolled for a long walk over the fields in late August. I walked regardless of what passed by me. conscious only of the ground I trod upon and my own malicious thoughts. It wasn't until I had reached a clearing on the ridge of the hill overlooking the farm where I live, that I stopped and sat down on a large tree trunk by the path; then I "opened my eyes" to what was about me. There was a slight shiver in the leaves, and the evening breeze chilled my arms. Already the sun was sending long shafts of weary sunlight through the trees, deepening the shadows to the valley below. I felt I wanted to capture what I saw in some way, either in words or by painting. There is forever the urge to improve and create, I told myself, and this creator was the person inside me. the person who is locked away in the hearts of all man. but who in this century of war and misery is unable to escape. What would happen to this world if suddenly, one cold wet day. that living spark inside man died forever? It would fall into a million pieces, and the tears shed through so many ages would perish with this wicked world.

That is why every man has the right and the need to stop, and stand. and stare, to release the flame in their hearts, that flame that alone holds this beautiful earth together. Then, maybe, man will grow to love beauty and peace, as he hates misery and war—

" 1 strove with none, for none was worth my strife; Nature I loved, and next to nature—art. I warmed both hands before the fire of life, It sinks, and I am ready to depart."

SUSIE HOLT. Form Upper Vb.

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RAIN The rain pattered down on the earth like the tinkle of fairies dancing

in a glen. It seemed unceasing but also restful. The little hurrying plip plop as it fell into the gutters was soon lost as it poured into a drain that was gaping wide like a monster waiting for its prey. Suddenly a clash of thunder shook the heavens. Lightning rent open the sky and gone was the fairylike tinkle. Instead was a thick sheet of powerful rain driving everything in front of it. stinging the cheeks of people who by misfortune were outside. Now the drains seemed to be smiling. They had more than enough rain to rill the great hole. The rain made a drumming noise on everything it touched. It sounded as if it was getting ready to go into battle. Suddenly the rain grew wilder. The trees joined in and in the valleys it grew to a great crescendo, like an opera at its climax. The rain drummed onto the lakes which were swirling in an angry mass, overflowing their banks and flooding the fields, and simultaneously the thunder crashed and the lightning tore a tree from its roots. Then it was over, finished, done with.

The rain was still pattering down, this time like a frightened child running to the safety of its mother. Even the swollen waterfall did not sound so menacing now. It was getting on for evening and the rain was falling less heavily. It got lighter and lighter. From under a hedge a cat slowly looked out and then daintily picked its way across the puddles into a farm house. Some children ran out laughing and turned their faces up to the sky to try and catch a stray drop of rain in their mouths. A dog barked and then all was still. In the sky a rainbow was forming and the rays caught their faces and for a moment they seemed to be transformed into fairy children. Then it was all over. A bird began to sing sleepily and from one of the trees a raindrop rolled slowly off a leaf to fall with a small plop into a puddle below.

ELIZABETH ROSTON, Form Vb.

TWILIGHT As I stand upon this hill All the world seems quiet and still. Even the stream slows down its speed And trickles through the water-weed. As I stand here, far from people. I hear a bell chime from a steeple. A late bird comes in from the west And flies straight to his cosy nest. A sly fox creeps out from his lair And badgers play without a care. The moon that shines from far above Looks like a beautiful silver dove. The stars around shine clear and bright Through the dark sky of the night. As I watch this lovely scene. So gentle, quiet and serene, I praise the land with all my might, For I've never seen such a heavenly sight.

T. VINTRAS, Form Upper Vb. 16

JERUSALEM Jerusalem, the Holiest City in the world, is, I think, the most interesting

and educational place. There are many places to visit such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Via Dolorosa, the Russian Excavations, and the fourteen Stages of the Cross, and then there are the places like suks and shops, and if you are lucky you are invited into the workshops where they make the articles that you buy in the suks. such as the Old Jerusalem silver crosses which are made into Crusaders' crosses.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built by Constantine and destroyed by the Turks, and then rebuilt by the Crusaders. This church is built on Mount Calvary where Jesus was crucified, and as you go round the church you can see the place and hole where the Cross was placed; you are asked to put your hand down the hole and feel the rock the Cross was standing on. The ceilings of beautiful Italian mosaics are lit up by the many candles that burn all around, lighting up various treasures. You then continue down a dark passage and come to a chapel which is the thirteenth Stage of the Cross; then you go into a very small chapel and see Jesus's tomb. It is lit up by candles and people go and pray there.

The Russian Excavations are on the site where the Old City Wall was. and there is a chapel where a service is held daily for the Russian Nuns. Here you see the first Stage of the Cross. All over the walls are beautiful old paintings which are many years old. Via Dolorosa was one of the last streets Jesus walked down and is between the third and fourth Stages of the Cross.

All around the city is a strong old wall and there are many gateways. All along the alleyways there are small shops that sell all sorts of things. Every shop has its special price for YOU; these are usually double the value and you have to bargain.

Altogether it is a mixture of different races, architecture and ways of living.

P. Cowt-EY. Form lVb.

PIGEONS A lovely pigeon loft once stood at the bottom of our garden in

Dunblane. As we are about to move to a house in the South of England we have had to sell all the pigeons. The loft has also been removed.

This is the story of a pigeon's life. The mother bird lays two eggs and, after she has sat on them for about

19 or 20 days, the baby pigeons emerge from their shells. The mother bird puts the top of the empty shell into the bottom part of the shell and tosses it out of the nest box.

The young pigeons are very ugly and are covered with grey flesh and some fluffy yellow down. Their huge (and very ugly) beaks just add more ugliness to their appearance. During the sitting period, the mother bird sits all night and the cock bird sits on the eggs all day.

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When the babies arc about twenty-four days old they arc weaned and are put in a separate nesting box and have to eat and drink and look after themselves. If they are not capable of this, they must have some weakness and are best destroyed because only the very strong and healthy pigeons can be capable of the very strenuous endurance tests they undergo later in life.

When the babies first attempt to fly. it is a very funny sight. Cautiously they approach the outside world and have a good look round before they attempt to fly. They look very proud when they fly on to the top of the loft for the first time. They strut about and then run back into the babies' loft to their nest boxes. They soon pluck up courage and make a short flight just round the loft and increase the distance daily until they are strong on the wing.

When the babies are about 2 | months old their training begins. They are put into baskets and taken away about five miles, where they are released and have to find their own way home; sometimes an old bird is sent with them for the first toss or two. but they soon get jolly good at finding their own way home and by the time they are four or five months old they have raced from a distance of about 200 miles.

Young bird races take place every Saturday from August to the end of September. On Friday afternoons Daddy makes out a Race Sheet with the numbers of the metal rings on each bird's leg. These rings are put on when the babies are six days old and are there for life. The pigeons are then taken down to the railway station where the other pigeon fans of Dunblane all meet with their own pigeons. Each member's Race Sheet is then handed to the Club Secretary, who enters the outside number of the rubber race ring against the metal ring number of each bird. There is a secret number inside every rubber ring and this is checked with a secret list when the race rings are taken out of the clock after a race. Having been rung with a rubber ring each, the babies are all mixed up together and sent off in the big Club baskets to the various race points. They are in the train all Friday night and are usually liberated on Saturday, so that they will get home soon after lunch-time. The shortest, or first young bird race, is from Lockerbie which is about 80 miles from Dunblane, and the birds are liberated about noon, allowing about 2 | hours for their first race. As the distances get longer every week, so the birds are liberated earlier.

Every member of the Club has a clock which is specially designed for pigeon racing. Before the race, each clock is set to the fraction of a second against what is called " The Master Timer." When the pigeon arrives home the great thing is to get into the loft very quickly—catch it—slip off the rubber race ring—put this into a thimble—drop the thimble in the slot in the clock and press down the lever. This action revolves the thimble and at the same time puts a pinprick on the dials of the clock, showing the exact time the bird was clocked. A clock will hold up to 14 thimbles.

After the race, at an agreed time, all clocks are taken to the Club Headquarters, where they are checked for running fast or slow with the Master Timer. They are then opened by the Secretary and the times of arrivals noted on the Race Sheet against the bird's metal ring number. Eventually the winners are declared.

Every loft is measured to a yard for distance from each race point. which means that every velocity has to be worked out separately—quite a job !

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I always enjoy Saturday afternoons and spend my time on the lawn with Daddy scanning the sky and seeing who can spot a pigeon coming home first. It is difficult to distinguish them sometimes from crows, starlings and swallows, but Daddy never makes a mistake.

Very often some friends some to tea and sit about in deck chairs on the lawn watching the pigeons drop from the skies, and they all enjoy it and get quite excited.

From about the end of September till March, the cocks and hens arc separated. This is done partly because it helps if a pair of birds has to be split and given a different husband or wife the next season. Pigeons arc very carefully mated and great care must be taken to see that they are not too closely related.

Quite a number of pigeons get lost every year. Some of them are not so clever as others, but they all have to run the risk of hitting wires or being hawked coming over lonely moors, etc. In one race from Stafford I lost my lovely " Seagull Junior." He had already flown hundreds of miles and had won the Cheltenham and Bournemouth races, but he was the only bird out of 32 Daddy sent which did not come home, so we are sure he is dead.

My greatest thrill was when my pigeon " Pilot" was first out of 3,338 pigeons racing from Preston, a distance of 175 miles 980 yards at an avenge speed of 972 yards per minute.

GERALDINE GODDARD. Form IVb.

THE LEAF I fell from a tree, I was tossed up and up. Round and round Off the ground. I twisted and turned Past turret and spire, I rose and fell Like a spark of fire. I skimmed out of town And flew, fast, free, Soft and light Like a bird or kite. But the cold wind eased, And I sank a little, Like a ship at sea T'ward meadow and lea. Then the cold wind stopped, And down I fell, Down to the ground I was earthbound. And I rotted and moulded, My colour all gone, I turned to dust As all leaves must.

C. PINKUS. Form Upper Vb. 19

QUOTABLE QUOTES —FORM VI.

1. Work in general:— Books : 'tis a dull and endless strife.

—WORDSWORTH.

2. Biology :— Our meddling intellect Mis-shapes the beauteous forms of things :— We murder to dissect.

—WORDSWORTH.

3. School meals :— Their heads never raising, There arc " 200 " feeding like one.

—WORDSWORTH.

4. Vlth Form tea :— In a hut. with water and a crust.

—KEATS.

5. Gym.:— Vaulted with all thy congregated might.

—SHELLEY.

6. The Choir:— Warble. " children"; make passionate my sense of hearing.

—SHAKESPEARE.

7. Warning bell:— And still she slept in azure lidded sleep.

—KEATS.

8. Sputnik I :— I wandered lonely as a cloud.

—WORDSWORTH.

9. Concert :— I played a soft and doleful air

that suited well That suite wild and hoary.

—Coi.EKIIlUl*.

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