St. Michael's College Magazine, HITCHIN.

VOLUME VII. No. 2. SUMMER, 1929.

EDITOR : REV. ANDREW BECK, A.A.

EDITORIAL.

The average person, is much less impressed by, abstract principle than by concrete example : and for most of us fact is a stronger argument than theory. We may speak of the joys of music, but we realise them more vividly when, we listen enchanted to the work of a great composer. We are more convinced by the sight of an aeroplane flying, than by all the arguments that prove that it should do so. The same is undoubtedly true of the spiritual life. An ideal becomes less nebulous and far-away when , we see it realised in another. Virtue remains difficult, of attainment, but the summit seems less high when we know those who already seem close to the top.

At some time in his life. the thought of the Priesthood must cross the mind of every Catholic boy. The deciding of one's life is not a question easily to be set aside, and the call of God, must always be considered in making. the decision. The Priesthood is undoub-tedly the Higher Call, and though perhaps we have not heard that call as one that is personal, we can nevertheless admire those who have heard and answered ; and even for the most lowly of us their example can he a great encouragement.

This year St. Michael's has been doubly blessed. Two sons of the Alma Mater have been raised to the glorious dignity of the Catho-lic Priesthood. One, Father Benedict Wallis, has " chosen the better part," and is now a Carthusian monk at the Monastery of St. Hugh, Parkminster. Him we must admire even from afar off, for the contemplative life is a life of Love, and those who embrace it are surely the chosen Friends. The other, Father Bede Horwood, was recently, ordained at the Assumptionist Scholasticate in Lou-vain. It is rumoured that we shall seee him in our midst next year. To both these Old Michaeleans we offer our sincere and respectful congratulations with fervent wishes for many fruitful years of labour in the Vineyard. May such examples be .a light and encouragement to those others among us who in themselves would realize this high ideal.

THE EDITOR.

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CHRONICLE

April 17th. Back once again. Doleful prospect of 14 weeks and 5 days—with Examinations at the end of it.

„ 18th. We hear of some lucky people with " dropped subjects." „ 20th. The " Under 15 " XI. are (or is) practising for their

(or its) final tussle against British next Friday. If earnest endeavour and diligent practice spell success, they should win. The Seniors and some others have commenced net practice for King Cricket's reign.

„ 21st. Fr. Andrew said our first Sunday Mass. Br. Freder-ick's collection is for the Chapel and not for foreign missions. Belgian coins are of little value.

„ 23rd. Feast of St. George and the Centenary of Catholic Emancipation. Solemn High Mass at 9 o'clock sung by Fr. Aidan, assisted by Frs. Octavian and Andrew. There was a good attendance including the day-boys ; and the rest of the day was free. At Benediction in the evening, Fr. Terence showed us that the choir was soon at work, by giving us a fresh version of the Regina Coeli.

„ 25th. Fr. Aidan commenced his yearly task of arranging and umpiring the Tennis Tournament. We are delighted to hear that " Dolly " was successful in his recent Music Exam.

„ 26th. The Final for the Charity Cup. The prologue to this has been weird vociferations coming from the Study Hall for the last few days. Castagnini with waving arms—" S a Wallah !" The match was played in the evening, and the School turned up in force. The match itself is dealt with elsewhere. We hear that Roge was very interested. Yates, Myers and Lewis were splendid, though the team as a whole deserves congratulation for a courageous display. It has been stated elsewhere that the game was one of the closest tussles ever played on the Town Field.

„ 30th. Fr. James returned to work after having been away for a period of convalescence. We congratulate him on a complete recovery. This evening the Final replay took place, and we lost a most thrilling game and the Cup by one goal. We all sympathize with the team on the result, and hope for better things next year.

May 3rd. Yates, Myers and Lewis had the honour of representing the College in the District XI., which played against the League Champions to-day. The District won 2-0, Myers scoring one of the goals.

5th. We return to Missa Cantata and sung Vespers.

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May 6th. School Summer time table comes into operation. Everybody is happy. Sports practice begins in earn-est.

„ 9th. Ascension Day. High Mass at 9 o'clock. The Cross-bearer became enrapt with an Organ voluntary and forgot his duties. To the Bazaar in the Parish Hall in the evening. We were pleased to hear Fr. Aidan in a new role and en-joyed ourselves immensely.

„ 10th. More Bazaar this evening. We even hear rumours of dancing, but this is denied by one of the staff —" Call that dancing !" An interesting subject for conversa-tion in the refectory.

„ 14th. Swimming for the first time this term. Yates figures largely on the back page of the " Pictorial." These athletes get all the kudos. Yet no. " Roamer " once quoted me

„ 15th. Solemn High Mass was sung to-day by Fr. President in thanksiving for the success for the General Chapter of the Congregation recently held in Rome.

19th. Whit Sunday. After High Mass Fr. President gave us the Solemn Papal Blessing with Plenary Indulgence. We are told that this privilege has been granted to the Assumptionists in view of their spiritual union with the Order of St. Augustine. Fr. Wilfred plays his first game of tennis for 1929. He tells us solemnly that he plays one game per year. We shall see.

„ 20th. Sports Day. The morning spent in the usual way—helping or admiring by some, getting in the way, or keeping out of it by others. A most enjoyable day, dealt with elsewhere. Castagnini as Victor Ludorum deserves special mention here.

„ 21st. Our thanks are due to Mrs. Fernandez and Fr. Presi-dent for a much appreciated free day. The Sixth shudder on realizing they have missed another X.D. Class.

„ 28th. We hear that Murcutt is busy on an election campaign—ably supported by Downer and Fawcett. Byrne is said to be contemplating wearing a red tie, and some unkind person pointed out that Kearney could easily be a Fascist.

„ 30th. Corpus Christi. Solemn High Mass sung by Fr. President. We and the sheep change places this afternoon. White found company with the frogs, but it will not last. Fr. President this evening paid Fr. Terence a nice compliment on the success of his choir.

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June 1st. The latest addition to the College is a Ner-a-car on which, we heat; Fr. Terence contemplates going to Baldock on Sundays. Murcutt and Dunn offer sound advice as to the care of the newcomer.

„ 7th. Feast of the Sacred Heart: We 'attend High Mass at the Church, to mark the opening of the Forty Hours Exposition. By special request the singing of the new Proper of the Sacred Heart Mass in Gregorian Chant, the ordinary and the appropriate offertory motet in music were executed by the College Choir, temporarily

augmented for the occasion—Br. Frederick at the organ. ,, 9th. The Blessed Sacrament Procession took place this

evening. It is doubtless described elsewhere, but we should like to mention the increased size of the pro-cession, and the fact that a longer route was chosen this year.

,, 18th. Much excitement in the Lower Forms when Br. Dun-stan puts in an appearance. He is back from Rome, and we regretfully notice that he looks thinner than ever.

„ 19th. After Morning Class we assembled in study to pay our respects to Fr. President and offer him some tangible mark of our appreciation. Murcutt as Captain read an address, and Fr. Deydier made a touching reply. These scenes were preceded and followed by tumul-tuous applause. Fr. Bonaventure was seen this evening cycling round the Penance Walk !

„ 20th. To-day we celebrated Fr. President's Feast Day. Festivities and rejoicing. The concert was again a great success. It was remarked that Fr. Aidan and Mt. Shrive are making a habit of this. Congratulations and thanks.

„ 29th. Whole Holiday to celebrate SS. Peter and Paul. The choir disappeared for the day, and were not heard of till 11-15 p.m. That they enjoyed themselves we do not doubt. We hear that Byrne steals into St. Ed-mund's again. Is it always the same attraction ?

„ 30th. Past v. Present Cricket Match and Annual Meeting of the Old Michaelean Association. The activities of the

day are dealt with elsewhere. We sympathize with J. Stanley, who received a nasty knock on the head while batting and was obliged to retire. G. Swanston very kindly drove him home.

July 8th. Solemn Requiem Mass for the repose 'of the soul of Fr. Louis Robert, A.A. We sympathize with Fr. President as the deceased priest—who was ordained only last year—was a former pupil of his in America..

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„ 13th. Tucker indulges in heated debate and we hear he even followed the example of " Johnnie."

„ 14th. Fr. Bonaventure's Feast Day. " Ad multos annos." We of the Sixth, to show our appreciation of the ex-cellent drilling we have received at his hands, offer our Communions especially for him. Fr. President sang Mass for the success , of the Examina-tion Candidates. They have our best wishes. Mr. Shrive arrived with a " Baby " much to Murcutt's delight. We hear that Fr. James was interested.

„ 16th. Cambridge Local Examinations begin. „ 20th. A great day in Hitchin. The Duchess of York came

to open a new wing of the local Hospital. Purses were presented by the various schools of the district to Her Royal Highness. P. Osborn had the honour of being the St. Michael's delegate.

SCHOOL NOTES.

Though the Summer Term is officially devoted to Cricket the beginning of this term saw the Under 15 XI. strenuously at practice in preparation for the Final of the H. and D. S.F.A. Charity Cup. The games are described elsewhere, but it is fitting that the team as a whole should be congratulated here on their courageous fight. A word of sympathy with Fr. Andrew would not be amiss in view of the time and energy he expended in training the team.

Congratulations to the Wilshere-Dacre School on their success under their new name.

* * * *

Congratulations to F. Downer on obtaining a Junior Certificate in the Trinity College of Music Exams held at Letchworth at the end of last term.

* * * *

Congratulations to the following who obtained Rolls of Honour during the term :—

MAY. First Roll. G. KING, E. PALMER, W. GOLDSMITH, G. TUCKER, J. FALLOWFIELD, L. GRUMI, B. JONES, J. REDMOND.

Second Roll. F. DOWNER, B. KEARNEY, F. MURCUTT, D. CASTAGNINI, P. HEZARD, L. THAMIN, E. YATES, A. ANGELL, V. DUNN, T. KEARNEY, G. LAVERRIERE, E. LEMMON, L. LEWIS, D. MCCORMAC, T. MCCLAIN, H. O'DONNELL, B. DYNE, W. WALSH, A. BODEN, A. MATHEWS, J. MURCUTT, P. OSBORN, G. TURNER, R. UNDERLIN, J. VASSALLO, J. BURROWS, P. DOWNER, A. FLYNN, H. JOLLIFFE, E. JONES, S. ROBINSON.

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JUNE. First Roll. P. HEZARD, G. KING, E. PALMER, W. GOLDSMITH, L. LEWIS, G. TUCKER, W. WALSH, J. FALLOWFIELD, G. GRAHAME, L. GRUMI, B. JONES, A. MATHEWS, J. MCCLAIN, J. MURCUTT, R. UNDERLIN, J. VASSALLO, J. BURROWS, A. FLYNN, J. REDMOND.

Second Roll. F. DOWNER, B. KEARNEY, F. MURCUTT, M. BYRNE, D. CASTAGNINI, A. DOWNS, L. THAMIN, E. YATES, A. ANGELL, V. DUNN, T. KEARNEY, R. GREAR, G. LAVERRIERE, E. LEMMON, D. McCORMAC, H. O'DONNELL, B. PYNE, R. ROMERO, A. BODEN, W. GALLAGHER, E. LEWIS, P. OSBORN, G. TURNER, P. DOWNER, H. JOLLIFFE, E. JONES, S. ROBINSON.

* * * *

The diocesan examination in Religious Knowledge took place on June 25th.

The following is Canon Sutcliffe's report :- " This school, as last year, gained the general mark " very good." The Boys generally answered very well, but the syllabus was re-

stricted in some points ; thus the amount of Doctrine in Form I II. was slight, and Forms III. and V I. presented no Old Testament History. Form III. was only " fair " in the text of the Catechism.

The rendering of a plain-chant Mass was excellent, and the prayers were said reverently and with hardly a mistake.

W.O . SUTCLIFFE.

Congratulations to the following who gained Certificates :- VI. D. CONROY, F. DOWNER, F. MURCUTT. V. IV. III. W. GOLDSMITH, E. LEMMON, L. LEWIS, W. WALSH. II. I.

* * * *

Sports Day was again glorious, and it is a pleasant duty to thank all those who in various ways contributed towards its success. Many gave prizes in various forms and many gave much time and trouble towards the arrangements. Among the donors of prizes we must mention two great friends of Fr. President, Mrs. Fernandez and Miss Foley, 'whose interest in the College is always manifested in a most generous way. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their kindness on this and other occasions. We would like to thank par-ticularly the officials, Messrs.Carr, Gallagher, Sell, Abbiss, large and Shrive, who were instrumental in carrying through the programme without a hitch. Mrs. Sell and her band of helpers, too, deserve a special word of thanks for the splendid way in which the doubtless uninteresting but very necessary work of supplying refreshments was carried out.

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The following is the list of other donors and helpers to whom the School as a whole tenders very sincere thanks :-

Rev. Fr. Julian, Rev. Fr. Omer, Rev. Fr. Delphin, Rev. Fr. Bernardin, A.A.

Mrs. Castagnini, Mrs. E. Godfrey, Mrs. Holyoake, Mrs. Jolliffe. Misses P. D. and E. Holyoake, Jackson, Madden. Messrs. McClain, Favart, Flynn, Martin, Holyoake, Dr.

Van der Borght. Maypole, Ltd., Hayes and Finch, Leete, Paternoster and Hales,

Spicer, Halsey, Brooker, Frost, Timothy White and Co., Waters, French, June and Co.

* * * * We were interested to see an exhibition of sheep-shearing during

the term. Our sheep seemed positively startled to see themselves without their " winter underwear." The shearing machine was an occasion for many facetious remarks.

* * * * The hot weather during the term has given a great fillip to

swimming. This year, as in every year, there have been many be: ginners, all of whom have made considerable progress. Prominent among them are Boden, Walsh, Murcutt ii, Vassallo, Palmer, Lemmon, McCormac. There has been considerable progress in diving, too. Castagnini and Romero still reign supreme on the high board, but have emulators in Angell and Grear. The, latter too, has made remarkable progress on the spring-board. Hezard has improved considerably, as also Dunn, Odell and Pyne. Swimming has not been restricted to the boys for we have frequently seen one or more of the Fathers enjoying the fun.

* * * * The Summer holidays begin on July 27th, and the School

re-opens on September 30th. Day-boys should be present on the following morning.

* * * * The Editor acknowledges with thanks the following exchanges ;—

Hitchin Grammar School Chronicle, Stevenage Alleynian, Port-cullis, Georgian, Sacred Heart Convent Magazine.

CORPUS CHRISTI PROCESSION. The Corpus Christi procession was held on Sunday, June 9th.

Although not within the octave of the feast it was decided to post-pone it until this date in order to avoid a clash with a similar func-tion at Letchworth. We were favoured with fine weather and the brilliant sunshine added beauty to the ceremony.

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As if to mark the progress of Catholicism in England a longer route was chosen this year. At six-fifteen a cross-bearer led the way from the Parish Church along Grove Road. Then followed the Sisters and pupils of the Sacred Heart Convent, Children of Mary, attired in lovely blue cloaks, the staff and boys of the College and, immediately preceding the Sacred Host, small children of the elementary school, who becomingly strewed a carpet of flowers. Fr. Amery, of Letchworth ,was the celebrant, the deacon and sub-deacon were Fr. Bonaventure Blanc and Fr. Aidan Kenny re-spectively,and four members of the Guild of the Blessed Sacrament carried a beautiful canopy. Following were the parishioners, and the clergy and parishioners of neighbouring parishes. Before the rear of the procession could leave the precincts of the church the leaders had turned into Baliol Road and were making their way through the college grounds. After encircling the lawns the com-pany assembled in front of the beautiful altar of repose which as usual had been erected in the front entrance. Rev. Mother, the Sisters and Brother Clement spared no effort to beautify this resting place of Our Eucharistic Lord, and their loving care was certainly rewarded by the imposing spectacle which resulted. The altar was decked with an abundance of the most beautiful flowers, and tall red geraniums stood on each side of the carpeted steps. It was noticed that to some extent the bareness of the flower-pots marred the scene, but Brother Sacristan came to the rescue with a supply of well-polished brass vases, and this contributed in no small degree to the exquisite beauty of the structure. Banners hung from all the front windows,and flags were placed at intervals on the route through the grounds.

Fr. Amery gave Benediction as the three censors incensed the Blessed Sacrament. One could not help noticing the air of reverence which prevailed throughout the evening.

Taking his text from St. John's gospel, " Behold I am with you all days," Fr. Terence 0' Pacanaim preached a beautiful and appro-priate sermon which was listened to very attentively. He explained the real presence of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacraments and the reason why Catholics carry the Sacred Host in procession.

The congregation then wended its way to the Parish Church, singing hymns of praise and adoration. A second Benediction was given from the High Altar and hearty singing concluded a splendid and impressive ceremony.

It is thought that there were more participants in this proces-sion than in that of last year; whether prompted by mere curiosity or not it is difficult to say, but the crowd which thronged the route was certainly a record one in the annals of Hitchin Corpus Christi Processions. A. DOWNS,

Form I V.

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CONFRATERNITY OF ST. MICHAEL. The meetings have been held as usual in the chapel each Sunday

morning during the term. We were pleased to notice the punc-tuality of the members and an increase of piety in the recitation of the chaplet.

On Sunday, June 16th, H. O' Donnell was enrolled and A. Boden on July 21st ; this brings the total membership up to sixteen.

At least two boys go to Holy Communion each morning for the intentions of benefactors and the members. At the time of writing the latter have had two Masses said this term for their intentions, and another is to be said before the end of the term.

Except on one occasion when he was unavoidably, absent the Director has on each Sunday given us some very helpful advice. He has explained the liturgy of the church and the symbolic meaning of the use of vestments. Readings from " The Mind of the Missal," have proved very interesting to all the members.

Fr. Deydier is pleased to note that on the whole the members have given good example and that their conduct marks have im-proved. He insists that at least eighty per cent. must be obtained.

Three members-F. Downer, D. Conroy and H. 0' Donnell-are leaving for France at the end of the term. F. Downer and D. Conroy are starting their noviciate and H. O'Donnell is joining a friend at the St. Dennis house of studies.

Although all the present members are students for the priest-hood other boys are not excluded. Should there be others desirous of joining they will be welcomed at the meeting on Sunday, October 6th.

A. DOWNs, President.

JUGGERNAUT.

A youthful figure stands waiting on a railway platform, im-patient for the arrival of the train which is to take him back to school. He ponders within his mind such thoughts as are peculiar to a boy returning from the holidays. " What a ripping time this term—cricket, tennis and all the rest,"—thus ran the gist of his meditations. The train had by now arrived, and with a springy stride he enters the nearest carriage. The train soon puffs out, and the meadows, resplendent in their fresh spring coats, are flying past. " Curious how one's temperament changes so quickly," the lad silently remarks, " It wasn't so bad when I was waiting just now, but somehow this train seems beastly—well, I can't quite describe it. Anyhow, I'll distract these unpleasant thoughts by watching the fields and houses whirling by. Oh !" he exclaims, upon

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looking out, " how dreary the day is. Was it not sunshine when I left my station ? What's the matter with everything ? Just fancy, I expect. A kind of " His remarks are interrupted by a shrill whistle from the engine, and the carriage is immediately plun-ged into darkness, while the train thunders its way through the long tunnel.

Daylight appears again, accompanied by a more nervous atti-tude on the part of the boy, not through the darkness of the tunnel, but because the train has seemed in that darkness to pulsate with its own life. A nearly imperceptible shudder runs down the boy's spine. He glances expectantly through the window, and his eye meets nothing save the cold monotony of a dismal quarry, a familiar landmark of the proximity of school. For the moment, he ex-periences a feeling of helplessness, approaching almost to the loss of self-possession, but this of course, is only fleeting. He brushes aside these unwelcome intimidations, and a tremulous thrill leaps through his frame, as the train, amidst the noisy bustle of porters and passengers, comes to a halt. He briskly steps out, and stands there, with a palpitating heart and a nervous twitch about his lips. Having descried a group of his school mates, he threads his way towards the exit to escape first notice. The matter-of-fact business train of everyday life resumes its journey with all the accompaniment of slammed doors and shrill whistles. To the mind of the boy, however, that powerful locomotive assumes vastly different proportions. Labouring under an undefinable emotion, his mind becomes con-fused with the rapidly succeeding thoughts.

How singular is his manner now ! Yet from the chaos of his mind, a main reflection which can be called an illusion gradually forces itself to the fore. It is undoubtedly the result of a nervous temperament, upon which any departure from the ordinary level of things is bound to impress itself deeply. The sub-conscious mind which is behind this nervous cloak, in order to restore again its equanimity, must immediately ascribe the cause of its disturbed state to the object with which it has lately been connected.

In this case the guilty agent was the express, now fast disap-pearing from actual vision. That cruel bulging metallic monster, its huge structure gleaming in a thousand places with the movements of its mighty steel members,. devoid of any feeling, driven on by intangible power, relentlessly deposits its human burden of those poor mortals which it greedily devoured. These depictions were ex-pressive of that violent- re-action, the thought that came in a flash and went again as quickly, leaving behind that passive and peaceful state which was its normal. Let us leave the boy now to continue his way, greeting companions, welcoming masters, and making fresh acquaintances, with the latest arrivals.

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Several weeks have elapsed, since the boy returned. The scene is changed. Summer is at its full height. Flowers are scattered profusely as far as the eye can see, and the lazy twitter of the busy sparrow mingles with the sighing drawn-out whistle of the lithe and graceful swift.

The dense masses of foliage sway gently in the light breeze. The gay humming of the busy insects imparts a lazy atmosphere over all, and on this very day, life in general corresponding to nature's irresistible call, seeks repose in various shaded arbours.

Beneath the welcome shade of a whispering, restless, aspen tree, was the young boy, listening idly to the babbling of miniature cascades in the nearby brook. The scent-laden breeze that soughed caressingly through the branches seemed anxious to convey in its muffled cadence the secrets held in silence for so long, and after which many have sought in vain. This peaceful hazy atmosphere readily conduced to deep reflections, and so oppressively hot was it, that, as a sudden recollection, striven after unceasingly, came back with regained emphasis, his attitude remained unchanged. He attempt-ed to stir himself from his mental lethargy, and to concentrate all his power upon that ever-fleeting picture. " Then that was it, after all," he mused, and sat up, determined that , the elusive image would no more escape him. " Now I can reason it out ; it seems pretty lucid."

After a while he rose from his velvety nook, and walked slowly back to school.

* * * * The morrow dawned, and with it came the breaking up of the

school. The lad awoke with a pale and rather livid countenance, as if

some premeditated evil was near at hand. However, this passed away with the excitement of the morning.

What a genial air struck him as he entered and sat among his companions at breakfast ! Merry laughing groups exchanged good natured chaff, and he himself was soon lost in its attractive sphere of joviality.

At last, every sign of departure and every unusual noise had vanished from the interior of the school. Silence, sweet and ma-jestic, reigned supreme in all the lofty classrooms.

The young boy had made his way to the station, in the company of his chums, outwardly happy, but experiencing inwardly a subdued sense of impending horror. They reached the station, the scene of many sad partings and lingering farewells, of sorrow and happiness, and of all sensations usually dependent upon one's object or destina-tion.

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The train was due in five minutes. What ailed the lad ? Idle enquiries among the boys pointed to the fact that he appeared ill. His eyes were too bright. His colour heightened abnormally as the minutes went on. He shook as with a violent fit of fever. Three minutes to go, and already various signals announced the approach of that iron monster with its implacable desires, its never-ending thirst for human cargo.

A smudge of white along the distant rails indicates the fast flying train. The boy now gulps, shivers, and strains with nervous fingers at his collar, while beads of perspiration collect on his brow. The express rapidly approaches, consuming the glistening rails with its insatiable appetite for food. The boy, transfixed to the spot, stares horror-stricken at the monster of his dreams, his vin-dictive tormentor, pursuing him wherever he went with maddening monotony—" That was the one, yes, that was it ! that was it !" A throttled cry escapes his drawn lips, and with a horrible unearthly shriek, he flings himself in the path of his grasping, panting aggres-sor. With an ear splitting din of hastily applied brakes, the massive express comes to a halt, quivers almost humanly, and then subsides motionless over the spot where one at least of its human victims lies in final immolation. From the boy's body the spirit had fled.

F. G. MURCUTT, Form V I.

IL PICCOLO COMMERCIO.

When you make your pilgrimage to Rome you will become acquainted with a particular type of street vendor. He carries his wares in a little box of polished wood. You will find him at the church doors, in the Squares, near the monuments and the fountains.

Beware of him if you value your purse and its contents. He is a tyrant, this wandering merchant. If his eyes alight on you, a stranger and an easy prey, he will accost you very politely and, unless you heed my warning he will be your undoing. He will sell you goods that you do not want, at a price worth five times their value.

The best advice, I, or any one else, can give you, is this :—Do not argue the point with him. If you have no use for his goods, do not attempt to tell him so. Walk away quickly and say not a word.

If he can get you to speak he is sure of victory. No one knows better than he the persuasive possibilities of opportune—and im-portune—eloquence. Say " No "; he will prove to you by an end-less string of arguments that it should be " Yes "; that you really mean yes, and that in any case you cannot reasonably maintain " No."

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He has apparently the gift of tongues and will try any number of languages until he finds one that suits you.

I once fell into the clutches of a " piccolo mercante." I was standing in the Piazza Venezia admiring, in the light of setting sun, the glittering gold and the white marble of the Victor Emmanuel Monument.

Someone came suddenly between me and the object of my gaze ; a man with a little box of polished wood: He spoke to me in Italian. By various sounds and signs I made him understand that I didn't, and turned away. He followed me, pulled my sleeve and told me in German that he had something I was going to buy.

I replied in French that I was not a pilgrim and did not want to take any souvenirs home. He switched over to French immediately and informed me that he did special trade with French visitors.

Hoping to dishearten him I counter-attacked in English, said I was in a hurry and not at all in need of his offers. His face bright-ened up at that. " If you speak English it will make things much easier," he said. " I know English well ; lived in London six years."

I continued to walk away, while he, being a little man, was trotting by my side. You will know this type of tradesman by his admirable patience.

I want to show you this fountain-pen," he panted, " one of the best that can be bought,"

I had a fountain pen already, and told him so. " Ah, but this is an exceptionally good pen, and a bargain as well."

" Possibly so. As it happens, however, I have no money with me.",

He did not call me a liar, but his smile showed that he thought me one. Was I not an Englishman ? And was it to be credited that an Englishman would stroll about Rome without a cent in his pocket ? "I'll take 15 lire for this magnificent pen."' " Not from me ;'I haven't got them."/ I was out of patience. Tonino was pained. He pleaded earnestly the cause of the " little commerce."

Will you take the pen at ten lire ?" " Will you take your pen and yourself to Jericho ?" I demanded. The pained expression left his features ; resignation took its place. " Look here, Padre,"—he whispered this in a confidential tone—I'll give you the pen, you give me five lire and we'll say no more about it." I was beaten. His last argument was conclusive. His next step, I imagine, would have been to call a couple of carabinieri and to give me in charge for refusing to buy his confounded pen.

I gave him five lire, pocketed the thing and turned away in disgust. I looked back from a short distance and saw the " little merchant " opening his box for the benefit of another unwilling but helpless customer. Ab uno disce omnes. And from my experience

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learn the right tactics to employ in similar circumstances. Flight, flight alone, flight swift and sure will save you from defeat. If you attempt to resist, the " piccolo commercio " will be your ruin.

I forgot to tell you that when I examined my fountain-pen, I discovered that it was a dud, an empty tube of ebonite ; neither a fountain nor a pen.

D.C.

LEAVING SCHOOL.

I have come to the end of my life as a boy, Behind me is Youth and before me is Age,

Yet the thought of departure has lessened my joy, In the great Book of Life 'tis the turn of a page.

As I thoughtfully pause on the threshold of Life, As I think of the chances thrown gladly away,

As I think of the weariness, trouble and strife, That await in the future, I stand in dismay.

Is this the result of those years spent at school, Of the hours that were golden yet thoughtlessly spent ?

Will they say to my soul at the judgment " Thou Fool ! Thou hast wasted thy substance and now must repent ?"

Yet the depth of my learning if put to the test, Is not found in marks nor in class nor in book.

I have learnt to remember that he is thrice blest, Whose conscience is clear, and steadfast his look.

I have learnt to be true ar d to try to be wise. I have learnt to serve God in the way that man must.

I have learnt to look Manhood straight in the eyes. And to know that the World in its glory is dust.

For Youth is a shadow and Manhood's in flight ; And the thin thread of Life is so easy to sever, The future is clear : I must fight the good fight,

And earn the Reward that endureth for ever. ANON.

MORE TRIFLES.

The Day-boys came to school by rail or road : And some would seem to come just when they like. And some come wearily as with great load ; Except the second Jones who comes on bike. Dunn says "socks" and Byrne replies " Oh flick !" For X. D. Thamin does not really like. Conroy has been known to break a stick, and Jones sedately rides his tiny bike.

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Myers for his jam no longer serves, and Boitard says his fists have gone " on strike " Yates imagines he is bowling swerves. In peace Jones rides his " fairy cycle " bike.

Kearney, Conroy, Comerford combine. Palmer is a patriotic " tyke." Spots upon the wall may forecast "fine." And Jones with stately motion rides his bike. The Flying Squad can boast a " Ner-a -car." A motor car it's really nothing like ; And yet the speed it goes exceeds by far. The slow sedate advance of Jones' bike. The stains on Stanley's fingers tell a tale. The baseball craze is dead—alas, no strike ; Goldsmith swims as well as any whale, But Jones will not desert his tiny bike.

Conroy in the Springs once had a dip, 'Twas Sunday afternoon upon a hike. The Jolliffes have been known to take a trip Or two or even more on Jones' bike. At Euclid Fawcett gained a ninety-six, And disillusioned those who know his fyke. And yet I am per-mitted by such tricks To find a word to rhyme with Jones' bike. Favart never hears the rising bell, And Rogé will not do as he is bid. I've changed the rhyme and you can surely tell I now shall have to call it Jones' " grid."

Murcutt uses "language" in his tales, And no one really knows what Mona did. Brother Frederick's noted for his Sales. And Jones still rides his dainty little grid. There were some words about the Cricket teas ; The pain of Father A. could not be hid. We all damire the colour of Pat's knees. But most of all we envy Jones' grid. To put an end to all the doggerel verse, You'd need to stop the flow with dam or dyke. The smell of Stanley's hair-oil might be worse. May Jones for ever keep his little bike !

ANON.

CHOIR TREAT.

Mass over and fast broken our harmonious party of ten left St. Michael's on pleasure bent. By half-past nine we were standirg before the massive pile of St. Paul's Cathedral, London.

The original edifice, a monastery dedicated to St. Paul, was erected by Egbert of Kent and here probably Mellitus the first Bishop of London fixed his See.

Destroyed soon after the Norman Conquest it was replaced by a fine Gothic Cathedral. This again perished in the Great Fire of 1666. The present edifice in Roman style, by the great architect Wren, dates from 1675. No better witness to his talent could be found. He lies buried in the crypt and his epitaph runs " Lector, si monu-mentum requiris circumspice,"

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We obtained a good view of the exterior of the mighty dome and lantern 365 ft. high which rests neither on the interior nor exterior domes but on a separate cone-shaped piece of masonry. We were unable to admire the nave, closed in by a temporary altar, because of repairs taking place underneath the dome.

Passing under the shadow of Bow Bells we came upon the mighty Mansion House, where the Lord Mayor " gave orders to his fifty cooks and butlers to keep Christmas as a Lord Mayor's house-hold should."

On our left stood the Bank, four acres in extent, windowless as a precaution, into whose coffers pours the money of the cheerful taxpayer.

Before us the Exchange founded in 1566 by Sir Thomas Gre-sham whose crest, the Grasshopper from the original building, still surmounts the present edfice. The present building is the third. The first perished in the Great Fire ; the second met a similar fate in 1838. The story goes that one of the last tunes the clock chimed was There's nae luck aboot the Hoose."

Through Lombard Street we reached the Monument a tall column after Wren's design. The height 202 ft. is said to be the distance between this site and Pudding Lane where the conflagration of 1666 began. One reaches the summit by means of 365 steps so as Martin Chuzzlewit says, " It is worth twice the money to stay below."

We contented ourselves with a rapid survey of the inscriptions on the pedestal in Latin, much to the annoyance of one of the party.

The libellous inscription of 1687, " The treachery of the Popish faction," erased under James II., restored under William III., was finally removed by the City Corporation. It is therefore no longer true to say as Pope said :-

"Where London's Column pointing to the skies Like a tall bully, lifts its head and lies."

Wending our way through the very heart of Billingsgate in full activity at this early hour, hurriedly lest we should improve our vocabulary, we emerged upon Tower Hill. The Tower lay at our feet. Tradition holds that Julius Caesar had here " an ill-erected tower." Certain it is that Alfred had a fortress on this site. The present building dates from William the Conqueror. The walls were added by William Longchamp.

Passing round the brow of the hill above the irregular pentagon we reached Tower Bridge, and for a while watched the river traffic. An obliging fishing smack making for the open sea afforded us the view of the Bridge in operation. Passing by Traitors Gate, under whose gloomy arch passed Sir Thomas More, Anne Boleyn, Catherine

Howard, Lady Jane Grey, Princess Elizabeth, we entered in a more prosaic manner, having paid the customary fee. Our first visit was to the White Tower ; here at the foot of the spiral staircase were found the bones of the murdered princes.

The block on which Lord Lovat, the last person to be beheaded in England (1747) was executed, arrested our attention. We passed to the main rooms where Raleigh, it is said, wrote, in con-finement, his " History of the World."

Leaving the depressing atmosphere of these chambers filled with firearms and instruments of torture, we strolled about the inner fortifications and then visited the Crown Jewels, one blaze of gold and precious stones. The young Edgar Wallace of the party questioned the difficulty of bringing off a successful coup. It was however not from here but from the Wakefield Tower that the notorious Colonel Blood under Charles I. attempted to steal the jewels.

Emerging we explored the contents of our provision box—a Beef-eater suspiciously inquired whether it contained bombs.

From thence we boarded a train at Mark Lane and at mid-day alighted at the Temple.

The Temple, now the " Inns of Courts," was originally the quarters of the " Knights Templars " after the fall of the Latin Kingdom at the end of the twelfth century. At the supression of the order in 1312 the property passed into the hands of the Knights of St. John, another military order which grew out of the Crusades. By them it was leased to the City Corporation.

Many historical associations are connected with this building. In Crown Office Row Charles Lamb was born. In Kings Bench Walk the Duchess of Marlborough revealed herself as a " lady of quality " by the way she swore at the clerk. Here Goldsmith lived and died. Here again between the Inns and the river stretch the gardens where the white and red roses of York and Lancaster were plucked during the longest of English Civil Wars.

Saturday being a closed day we could see only the outer walls of the chapel, but after much eye-straining we discovered upon the stained glass windows the " Agnus Dei " but not the " Pegasus " the arms of the Templars.

" The Lamb shows their innocence, the Horse their expedition," runs the old rhyme referring to the Lawyers of Inner and Middle Temple I

Reaching Fleet Street we admired as best we could from the close proximity of the street the Law Courts, transferred here from Westminster in 1882.

Passing through the throbbing Strand formerly washed by the river we viewed the " Corinthian Column of Granite," The National

Gallery and St. Martin's-in-the-Fields. Several of the party, possibly by now super-saturated in archeology, found more pleasure in watching the fountains in play.

Passing under Admiralty Arch we sat ourselves down under a leafy tree in St. James' Park. Rested and refreshed with chocolate and nougat we skirted the Admiralty and Foreign Office and came upon Westminster.

On the left appeared the Houses of Parliament where formerly stood Canute's Palace which perished by fire in the eleventh cen-tury. Early in the sixteenth century this Palace exclusive of St. Stephen's Chapel was again almost destroyed by fire. Instead of rebuilding Henry VIII. " relieved " Wolsey of Whitehall Palace. This was also destroyed under William III., the Court then removed to St. James' Palace. The present Houses of Parliament are the work of Sir Charles Barry, 1857.

Having checked our watches by the clock in St. Stephen's Tower, 316 ft. high where hangs the second 14 ton Big Ben, we passed along to the entrance gate adjoining Victoria Tower. Through the Royal Robing Room ornamented with statues of Arthurian legends setting forth the virtues of chivalry, and the Royal Gallery with the portraits of Tudor Sovereigns, we came to the House of Lords ; the number of people present did not permit of a prolonged stay. Passing through the Peers' Lobbies we came to the Central Hall, and then to the House of Commons which many of the party in spite of its rich panelling and stained glass windows, found " shabby " compared with the House of Lords. In St. Stephen's Hall, rebuilt by Rufus, the only ancient part of the building, we paused a moment to refresh our memory. Here William Wallace, Sir Thomas More, Guy Fawkes, Charles I. and the Seven Bishops stood their trial. This Hall was used as a court before the erection of the imposing courts which we had seen in Fleet Street. Having paid a short visit to the crypt we " retired " from Parliament.

Opposite us was Westminster Abbey, so called in distinction to Eastminster, St Paul's. It is known that in the 7th century, Egbert, the Anglo-Saxon axon king, built a Benedictine Monastery on Thorney isle : the spot is no longer thorny nor is it an island. Edgar rebuilt the Church after its destruction by the Danes in the tenth century. It served later as a royal residence till Edward the Con-fessor instead of accomplishing his pilgrimage to Rome rebuilt the Abbey. Of this, however, little remains.

Henry III. added the Lady Chapel, later on reconstructed by Henry V. whose name it still bears. He and his son Edward I. extended the building four bays beyond the Transept. The present edifice as we saw it, was not completed however till two centuries later. The west towers, by Wren, date from after the Restoration. Entering by the North Transept we walked round viewing the

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monuments, most of them modern and hideous, the renaissance jarring at every moment on the Gothic surroundings. From the western door we had a better sight of the design. Everyone was struck by the height of the structure, the loftiest in England, the loftiest of any in proportion to the width. Here lie, save Ben Johnson the Elizabethan poet who stands buried, men too numerous to recall. Poets, architects, astronomers, soldiers, painters, states-men, governors, thirteen kings and five queens in their own right. Many monuments commemorate worthies buried elsewhere. Many others also, one wonders how, have obtained a place of rest in such an edifice. Church or museum, it is hard to say which name is more suited. Prayer for the dead for whom Masses were to be said in perpetuity in the Henry VI. Chapel, does not come spontaneously to the lips among such heterogeneous surroundings.

Time did not permit a more detailed exploration, much indeed, the various chapels, the royal tombs, the chapter house, remain for a future visit. By now the sun was at its height, that is our watches marked one o'clock, the heat was less comfortable, Lunch was indicated and promptly served in Victoria Street, we ate it with zest, conversation flowed more freely than in the morning, and merry wit whiled away the intervals. At two o'clock we sallied forth. The Cathedral, the most important addition to ecclesiastical architecture since the fire, was our next objective.

The style, early Christian byzantine, is unusual in this country and afforded us a pleasant contrast to the imposing mass of St. Paul's and the lofty structure of the Abbey. On entering some of the party were struck by the aspect of the bare walls which will soon give place to marble and mosaic. Having paid homage to the Divine Host we surveyed the high altar, a twelve-ton block of Cornish granite, covered by the beautiful Baldachino supported on eight columns of Yellow Verona marble ; the Episcopal Throne, a copy of the Papal Throne in St. John Lateran's Rome, and the magnificent pulpit attracted our attention ; we wondered greatly at the marble and mosaics of varied colours. We then prayed before the Lady Chapel and visited the various chapels. After having reverently kissed the foot of St. Peter, whose feast day it was, we left the edifice. The tower, 284 ft. high, to which we had hoped to ascend by the new lift was closed to the public. By bus we reached Kensington Museums, the most attractive being the mechanical science museum, where we turned handles and pressed knobs to our heart's content for the space of an hour. Repairing to Brompton Oratory we attended part of Vespers. The beautiful singing by the renowned choir made us regret we could not tarry longer. But evening was approaching.

Boarding a bus we gained Shepherd's Bush where all save one did justice to a plentiful tea. Six o'clock had not struck before the doors of the " Pavilion " had dosed behind us. We entered on

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another world. Towering walls, gloomy dungeons, throbbing thor-oughfares, and revolving machinery, all vanished as, seated

comfortably quietly listening to the strains of the powerful organ,we watched the scenic vistas flash across the screen.

Both films, " The Prisoner of Zenda " and " Beggars of Life," separated by an exhibition of dancing not less clever than graceful, captivated the young imagination.

Two hours had sped ere we found ourselves in the falling evening light. By electric train we reached King's Cross. On the merry return journey the senior by rose to make a speech, and to propose three cheers. The cheers rang out uproariously and the blushing orator, carried off his feet, promptly sat down.

Shades of night had fallen o'er St. Michael's, nestling in verdure as we passed up the drive. Fatigued we retired to bed where no doubt haunting visions, pursued weary souls till the Rising Sun and a " Ringing Bell " broke the charms and our nine worthies rose again to a normal day.

A. BODEN, Form I I.

SPORTS DAY.

The Annual Athletic Sports were held again this year on Whit Monday. The day was glorious, and the running as a whole reached a high standard. A feature of the day was the splendid running of both Castagnini and Myers who won the Senior and Junior Challenge Cups respectively. Castagnini achieved a great personal triumph and established a school record by winning seven firsts. Myers ran particularly well in a very gruelling half-mile.

Following are the results :- 100 Yards (under 12).-1, J. Redmond (14 secs.); 2, L. Hunt.

Under 13.-1, A. Boden (12 4-5 secs.); 2, D. McCormac ; 3, P. Osborn. Under 14.-1, W. Walsh (13 secs.); 2, J. Burrows ; 3, J. Murcutt 4, A. Flynn. Under 15.-1, A. Myers (11 4-5 secs.); 2, J. McClain ; 3, E. Comerford ; 4, R. Grear. Over 15.-1, J. Roge (12 secs.); 2, B. Comerford ; 3, G. Laverriere ; 4, E. Yates. Over 17.-1, D. Castagnini (11 1-5 secs.); 2, R. Favard, Old Boys.-1, D. Cahill (11 secs.); 2, H. Howitt.

100 Yards Hurdles (under 14).-1, A. Bolen (18 secs.); 2, J. Murcutt ; 3, E. Lewis ; 4, A. Stanley. Under 15.-1, E. Comerford (16 2-5 secs.); 2, R. Grear ; 3, A. Mathews. Over 15.-1, B. Comer-ford (16 secs.); 2, J. Roge ; 3, L. Odell ; 4, L. Thamin. Over 16.-1, D. Castagnini (14 2-5 secs.); 2, G. Murcutt ; 3, L. White.

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220 Yards (under 12).-1, J. Redmond (36 secs.); 2, L. Hunt ; 3, P. Downer. Under 13.-1, A. Baden (33 4-5 secs.); 2, D. Mc Cormac ; 3, A. Woodward. Under 14.-1, W. Walsh (33 4-5 secs.); 2, J. Burrows ; 3, J. Murcutt. Under 15.-A. Myers (29 secs.); 2, E. Comerford ; 3, R. Grear. Over 15.-1, B. Comerford (32 2-5 secs.); 2, G. Laverriere ; 3, J. McClain ; 4, M. Meseguer. Over 17.-1, D. Castagnini (27 2-5 secs.); 2, J. Stanley ; 3, R. Favard. Old Boys.-1, P. Cahill (27 2-5 secs.); 2, D. Cahill ; 3, H. Howitt.

High Jump (under 15).-1, J. McClain (4ft. 4in.); 2, T. Kearney. 3, J. Murcutt. Over 15.-1, D. Castagnini (5ft.); 2, E. Yates ; 3, G. Laverreire.

440 Yards Handicap (under 15).-1, A. Myers (scr., 62 2-5 secs.); 2, E. Comerford ; 3, G. Grahame ; 4, J. Redmond. Over 15.- 1, G. Murcutt (5 yards, 64 secs.); 2, J. Stanley ; 3, F. Downer. Old Boys (scr.)-1, E. McGoldrick (64 secs.); 2, A. Cash.

Three-legged race.-1, G. Murcutt and L. White ; 2, V. Dunn and G. King ; 3, P. Osborn and L. Odell.

Throwing the cricket ball (under 15).-1, A. Myers (61 yards); 2, T. Kearney ; 3, J. Murcutt. Over 15.-1, D. Castagnini (82 yds. 2/ ft.); 2, B. Kearney ; 3, L. White.

Long Jump (under 15).-1, L. Lewis (14 ft. 2/ in.); 2, J. Mc Clain ; 3, R. Grear. Over 15.-1, D. Castagnini (18 ft. 7/ in.); 2, L. Thamin ; 3, G. King ; 4, E. Yates.

Half-mile Handicap (under 15).-1, A. Myers (scr., 2 min. 36 secs.); 2, J. Vassalo ; 3, E. Comerford ; 4, A. Woodward. Over 15.-1, D. Castagnini (scr., 2 min. 27 4-5 secs.); 2, G. Murcutt ; 3, V. Dunn ; 4, B. Kearney .

Bicycle Race.-1, G. Turner ; 2, B. Kearney ; 3, L. Odell. Obstacle Race (under 15).-1, L. Lewis ; 2, J. Murcutt ; 3, A.

Angell ; 4, L. Lewis. Over 15.-1, E. Yates ; 2 A. de Souza ; 3, G. Laverriere.

In the final of the Tennis Tournament, A. Myers and G. King beat G. Murcutt and I). Castagnini, 6-4, 6-4.

One of the best events of the day came very late in the pro-gramme. This was the Past v. Present Mile Relay Race in eight laps. The teams were :-Present J. Roge, B. Comerford, M. Byrne, A. Myers, R. Favart, J. Stanley, G. Murcutt, D. Castagnini.

Past :-P. C. Cahill, F. Cash, E. McGoldrick, W. Hunt, J. Myers, P. O'Keeffe, H. Howitt, D. J. Cahill.

The Past started away at a very fast pace, and at the end of the third lap had more than 50 yards lead. Myers reduced this consid-erably and Favart held what had been gained. Amid tremendous enthusiasm Stanley took the lead from 0' Keeffe, Murcutt increased it, and with 15 yards start Castagnini was safe from D. Cahill.

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The prizes were distributed by Mr. G. Fernandez, an old friend of Father President, who also obtained for us a holiday on the morrow. The day closed with cheers for Fr. President, Mrs. Fer-nandez and Fr. Andrew, who had organised a most successful day.

THE CUP FINAL. Having beaten Pixmore by one goal in the semi-final of the

Hitchin and District Schools Charity Cup Competition, the Under 15 XI. found themselves expected to take part in the final almost immediately on returning from the holidays. The team was given a few days intensive training by Fr. Andrew, and the first stage of the battle took place on the Town Ground on the evening of April 26th. Our opponents were the Wilshere Dacre School, still known to most of us as the British. The following represented the College :— E. Yates ; L. Lewis, E. Comerford ; L. Thamin, B. Comerford, T. Scrutton ; A. Stanley, R. Grear, A. Myers, W. Walsh, T. Kearney.

The match was a magnificent game, and the result a goal-less draw. On the run of the play the result was perhaps lucky for us. Yates covered himself with glory, giving a magnificent exhibition of goalkeeping. Lewis too, was splendid at back, and Comerford always a willing worker. The inside forwards took a long time to get going, and the wings were very weak. The following description of the game appeared in the local " Pictorial ":-

A large number of Hitchin schoolboys turned out to see two of the most prominent boys' schools in the town fight for the Charity Cup, on Hitchin Town ground, on Friday evening, and were re-warded by one of the closest tussles yet seen on the ground—which is saying a lot for the game. The finalists were the BRITISH SCHOOL and ST. MICHAEL'S COLLEGE.

St. Michael's had a big advantage in physique, but the British lads more than made up for this in their determination, and but for the brilliant custodianship of Yates would have pulled off a decisive victory. As it was the game resulted in a goal-less draw.

The College won the toss, and elected to kick down-field with the wind, but with the sun in their eyes.

Brown severely tested Yates early in the game, but the Colleg-ians soon settled down, and Myers was very dangerous in the centre-forward position, but was well marked. The British forwards were well backed up by the middle line, and the College goal had a narrow escape when Yates, tackled heavily, fumbled a shot from Grimes. In the next attack the goalie did well to run out and clear when King got through by himself. At the other end, a combined attack by Myers and Grear was broken up, and although the British kept Yates busy through Chambers and Grimes, the interval arrived with no score.

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Straight from the re-start the College forwards got through, via the right-wing, and Chambers did well to clear from Grear. The British rallied, but Winchester, after making a brilliant run through on his wing, shot over the bar. Chambers put in a strong shot, and Winchester ran in, and turned the ball, which grazed the upright on the wrong side, with Yates out of position. The British were now very dangerous, and but for the brilliant custodianship of Yates would have netted on more than one occasion. Thomas, who was the brains of the British defence, repelled attack after attack by Stanley, and Day played. a great game in goal. Myers was a dan-gerous centre-forward, but was well-marked by Chambers.

Extra time was not allowed, and a re-play was fixed for the following Tuesday, April 30th.

Two changes were made in the team. Scrutton stood down, his place at left-half being taken by T. Kearney, while G. Gallagher filled the latter's place at outside-left.

Another game of thrills resulted, though the standard of play was perhaps not quite up to that of the first game. The first half was very even, and the only goal came from a penalty awarded against us for hands.

In the second half we pressed continuously and the halves and forwards brought off some very cleverly executed movements. We seemed to be able to do everything except score. There was a moment of tense excitement when we were awarded a penalty for hands, and a cry of consternation from the College spectators when the ball grazed the upright—on the wrong side. The last ten min-utes of the game were pandemonium. The halves and forwards were attacking solidly but the British defence was splendid. Myers headed against the cross-bar, and a shot from Grear hit the upright. But we failed to score. So ended a splendid game—as many of us thought, a trifle unlucky for St. Michael's.

Yates was again brilliant, though he had less to do than in the previous game. Lewis was splendid, his positional play being ex-tremely clever. Comerford ii. played hard but was rather wild. The halves improved upon the first match in that they were more constructive in their work and less intent on defence pure and simple. Comerford i. got through a tremendous amount of work, Thamin was always very sound, and Kearney, though slow, made more use of his weight. The wings were the weakness of the forward line. Myers was always in the picture, and in the second half he was ably helped by Walsh and Grear.

The Cup was presented to the winning team by Mr. Spikesman, and a vote of thanks was proposed by Mr. Corbett and seconded by Fr. Andrew.

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WE SHOULD LIKE TO KNOW. Why Rogé did not see the Cup Final. If Myers finds that jam is somewhat sticky. If Comerford believes in a sixth sense when learning Latin. How White knows the Pope's intentions. The difference between Palmer and Palmer. The difference between Jones I and Jones ii. (This is said to be

a matter of two feet. Ed.). What happens to the fishbones. If Fawcett's new book will be a revised edition of Euclid. If Sutcliffe knows about Palmer. If Thamin thinks of it as D. X. D. If De Souza is going to join the Salvation Army. What a Jacobite one is. If J. McClain hopes to imitate Dempsey. If Yates' new book is to be entitled " The Missing Miss " or

" Bishop's Move." Why Castagnini says " Get away, man !" If Thamin's match was really a tie. If Kearney likes the taste of Hitchin baths. Or if it was simply a new version of the " swallow " dive. If Fr. Wilfred is to write a series of articles on " My Tennis

Days." Whether Favart is a good " fielder." If Conroy was well cast. And why he buys peppermints. What Lemmon thinks of insomnia. If Myers contemplates a crash-helmet for Maths. Whether it is the " Murcutt Mooch " or the " Ward Walk." If Boitard was really trained by Carpentier. And why he dislikes the mention of nose. If Downs feels sorry about the glasses. Whether the outlook in the Park may be described as rosy. If the Fifth always shave every day, or only during Exams. If Br.. Hugh might be called a practical phrenologist. If the Penance Walk is shortly to become a Dirt Track. Whether it should be " Ne'er a Car."

MUSIC NOTES. Most people present at the recent concert given to Father Louis

will agree that the standard of singing by the Choir was certainly the highest attained during the last two years.

My appeal for new voices brought forward a pleasing amount of new talent.

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This does not mean that each boy is a soloist (far from it) ; but all types of voices are needed to form a successful choir.

I, personally, was very pleased with the singing at the concert and now ask again for still more boys to come along next term to fill the places of some who are leaving.

* * Congratulations to F. Downer on passing the Trinity College

Junior Pianoforte Examination,:" , Downer should make a good pianist if only he can overcome his

leaning towards shyness and nervousness. I shall be sorry to lose such a promising pupil.

Osborne has great ability as a pianist but is not fond of practice. When he realizes the meaning of the old saying " Practice makes Perfect," he should go ahead rapidly.

* I would give all piano students a reminder about the music

prize. This year it should be a very close thing for two boys. L. G. SHRIVE.

TENNIS TOURNAMENT.

The Annual Tennis Tournament began a few weeks before Sports Day. Although the court was not in a very good state, very few "bad balls " were experienced during the games. There was, as usual, a large number of entrants, who kept up St. Michael's tennis reputation.

The Tournament was opened by a decisive victory for Angell and Thamin against Byrne and Downer (6 0 : 6-0). Before the semi-finals many good games were seen.

The semi-finalists were :—Murcutt and Castagnini, last year's champions, v. Stanley, W. and Favart, the result being in favour of the Champions (9-7 ; 9-7) after a very hard game. The onlookers were amazed at Stanley's agility, and Favart's hard drives, but the steady play of the " Champions " gradually overpowered their fast but sometimes erratic play.

The other semi-final was contested between Downs, A. and White, L. and Myers, A. and G. King. Although the game was not so good- as the above, numerous rallies accompanied with good pla-cing and swift drives were observable. Downs' overhead play and White's forward stroke were on the whole very good but the firm play of Myers and King seemed gradually to overcome their unreli-able shots and gained a hard-won victory.

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The final itself was somewhat disappointing. The first set was played on Sunday, 27th, and resulted in a win for Myers and King, 6-4. The play on both sides was erratic, with Castagnini frequently over-driving and Myers too often finding the net. The positioning of the younger pair was better and some of the best shots of the match were King's forehand drives. The second set was played on the afternoon of Sports Day and was quickly over. Castagnini opened the service and he and Murcutt won the first two games without difficulty. King and Myers rallied and pulled the score up to 2-2. Castagnini again won his service then Myers and King broke right away with three successive games, the last two being to love. The champions won a fourth game on Castagnini's service, but the tenth game went with Myer's service and settled the issue.

Better tennis was seen during the earlier rounds than in the final, but the change from hard to grass court may have been re-sponsible for much of the mis-timing.

One thing noticed was the excellent spirit of the players, the whole hearted way they all played and the cheerfulness with which they accepted defeat. The Tournament on the whole was a great success, but it is hoped that the courts will be better next season.

OLD BOYS' NOTES. The chief Old Michaelean activities this term have taken place

at Hitchin. They were the reunion on Sports Day and the Cricket Match and General Meeting which took place on June 30th.

Sports Day from the point of view of the College must have been a great success, for the weather was splendid and there was a large gathering of visitors. The Old Boys present were not quite so numerous as in 1928 and the entries for the events were somewhat disappointing. An unfortunate misunderstanding kept both P. Cahill and H. Howitt out of the quarter-mile handicap. After the Sports Fr. Deydier invited the O.M's. to stay to supper, and though a fair number had already left for Town, an interesting meal, inter-spersed with many reminiscences, was shared by several.

The Past v. Present Cricket Match resulted in a fairly easy win for the Past. This was due in no small measure to a good knock of 72 by F. Ward. It would be untrue to say that the innings was faultless, but everybody admired Ward's strength on the leg side. A report of the match doubtless figures in the Cricket Notes.

The Annual General Meeting in the evening was rather poorly attended, but all the necessary business was successfully transacted.

The Minutes of the Inaugural General Meeting held on July 1st, 1928, were read and approved. These included a draft of the Constitution of the Association which appears in its amended form at the end of these notes.

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The Council's Report for the year was read by Mr: P. Cahill. The following are the chief points of interest in the report :—The number of members is 41, three of whom are honorary and the rest ordinary. The three honorary members are all intimately connected with the College and are friends of most Old Michaeleans :—The Rev. J. Atthill, the Rev. G. W. H. Webb and H. 0' Neill, Esq.

Two Old Boys were raised to the Priesthood during the year :— B. Wallis, who is a member of the Carthusian community at Park-minster, was ordained by His Lordship of Southwark on March 16th, and A. Horwood, who has become an Assumptionist, received the priestly dignity at Louvain on June 9th. We hear it rumoured that he will be stationed at Hitchin next year. To both these noble souls who have heard the higher call we extend our heartfelt con-gratulations. A note of sorrow is struck by the remembrance of the death of D. Nicholson which occurred last September, R.I.P.

The report continues with an account of athletic achievement, most of which has already appeared in the Magazine.

The Annual Dinner was held in London on January 13th and was well attended.

Mr. S. B. Ridley presented a statement of accounts, which had been audited by Br. Hugh Howitt, A.A. After discussion on minor items the accounts were approved, showing a Balance of over 0, a healthy sign for the future of the Association.

The election of officers resulted as follows :- Fr. Andrew Beck, A.A., was unanimously re-elected Chairman

of the Association, and Mr. Ridly unanimously re-elected Secretary.

Mr. F. T. Ward was elected Assistant Secretary by a majority of one vote.

The following members of the Council were elected by ballot, the figures in brackets indicate the number of votes :—Mr. E . Godfrey (13). Mr. H. Denny (13). Mr. P. Cahill (13). Mr. L. Goulding (11). Mr. F. Scott (10). Mr. J. Molloy (6).

Several minor alterations in the constitution were proposed by the Council. They are embodied in the Constitution given below.

The method of collecting subscriptions was discussed ; and it was also suggested that more frequent meetings of a less formal character might be arranged. The Secretary said he would look into both matters and endeavour to arrange for a suitable meeting place in London.

Thanks to Mr. L. Goulding another cricket match against Oberon C.C. has been arranged for Sunday, September 1st. Mem-bers selected to play will be notified later. It is hoped to arrange other matches, but at present nothing definite has been decided.

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Following is the Constitution of the Old Michaelean Association. 1. The name of the Association is the Old Michaeleans' Association. Its

objects are :-1 first, to faciliate and encourage social intercourse among Old Michaeleans and others who have been intimately connected with St. Michael's College,' Hitchin ; secondly, to advance as far as possible the condition, both spiritual and temporal, of all Old Michaeleans, and especially of those who are in most need ; and thirdly, to promote by all means available the welfare of the Alma Mater.

2. The Association shall hold meetings, afford facilities for athletics and arrange dinners, concerts, and other amusements for the members.

3. The Association shall consist of Ordinary Members, Foreign Members and Honorary Members. Ordinary Members shall be elected by the Council from the Old Boys of the College. Foreign Members shall consist of Ordinary Members permanently resident abroad. Honorary Members shall consist of persons who have been intimately connected with the College and shall be elected by the Council.

4. All Members shall have the right to be present at the various meetings of the Association and Ordinary Members shall each be entitled to one vote on every question submitted to, and at every election made at the meetings.

5. The Superior of St. Michael's College, Hitchin, shall be Hon. President of the Association. The control of the Association shall be vested in the Chairman of the Association, the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary and the Council for the time being.

6. The Chairman of the Association and the Secretaries shall ex-officio be members of the Council, and be elected each year at the Annual General Meeting. The Council' shall be nine in number and shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting. Five Members of the Council shall constitute a quorum. The Council shall appoint as Treasurer one of its Members.

7. The Chairman of the Association shall be ex-officio Chairman of the Coun-cil, and a Deputy Chairman shall be appointed annually by the Council. The Chairman shall have a casting vote.

8. The Council shall meet once a quarter, or oftener, as may be requisite. Members of the Council who do not attend at least two in each year shall not be considered eligible for re-election.

9. The Subscription to the Association shall be ten shillings and sixpence for Ordinary Members and Honorary Members,. and five shillings for For-eign Members, payable nnually on the first of June in each year, except in the case of Members of Religous Orders vowed to Poverty, who shall be exempt. One year's subscription shall be payable on admission unless the date of admission be after the 1st of December when only half a year's subscription shall be so payable. Members who shall join the Association on leaving School shall be exempt from the <ubscription for the current year.

10. The St. Michael's College Ma gazi e shall be the organ of the Association and the Council may appoint one of their Members to be the Old Boys' Editor.

11. Any Member who shall not have paid his subscription before the 1st of September in any year, may be declared defaulter by the Council whereupon he shall cease to be a member of the Association.

12. Any member may resign on giving notice of his intention to the Council, but he shall be bound on his honour to pay his subscription for the current year,

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13. A general meeting of members shall be held about Whitsuntide every year to receive the report of the Council and the Honorary Treasurer's accounts, to elect the officers and the Council of the Association, and to decide questions concerning its rules and policy. A preliminary notice of this Annual General Meeting stating the date by which all nominations and notices of resolutions must reach the Honorary Secretary shall be published in the Easter Number of the Magazine.

14. The Council may when it appears to them necessary, or shall on the written requisition of not less than twenty members call a special General Meeting of the Association.

15. Except as provided in the Constitution all elections whether by the Council or otherwise shall be by ballot and all elections and all questions shall be determinated by a majority of votes.

16. The Council may from time to time make such Bye Laws not inconsistent with this Constitution, as may be necessary or desirable for the conduct of business and the interests of the Association.

NEWS OF EVERYONE.

L. BIRDSEYE has a post as draughtsman with Millars Machinery Co. at Bishops Stortford. Apparently he finds the work very in-teresting and far from monotonous. He turned up at Hitchin on the eve of the Past v. Present Match, and was prevailed upon to stay the week-end.

D. MACGILLIVRAY has gone to Canada to take up farming. At present he is doing an Agricultural course at Macdonald College, Montreal.

P. TURNER, better known to O.M.'s. by his nickname, is also in Canada. His address is 46, Wheeler Avenue, Toronto, 8.

Apart from journalistic duties, D. CAHILL finds time to help the Universe on the cricket field. We hear that he has played with success on more than one occasion.

A. D. STUART has obtained a post overseas as accountant with Messrs. Lever Bros.. He sailed for the Congo in the beginning of July.

C. E. LACEY has a position at the Hendon works of the Standard Telephone and Cable Co.

J. WHITAKER, having successfully passed all his exams, has set up in business with his father in Hitchin. The Bridge Pharmacy, which has taken the place of Barkers at Starlings Bridge, looks delightfully clean, cool and chemical, and we wish its new proprietor every success—though it is true that chemists flourish most on epidemics !

R. BLAKE has a position in the accounts department of The Motor. He paid a flying visit to the College in April.

F. LOTH also turned up at Hitchin for a short visit one Sunday. He is one of the Bentley mechanics team at Brooklands.

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G. SWANSTON wrote from Yarmouth for Sports Day as follows— I am afraid I shall be unable to come this year as I dislocated

my knee at football, and, although it is mending slowly )the doctor will not allow me to get about on it very much, but if he will give me permission to leave the town you may be sure I shall come.

The chaps in my club are disappointed as I shall be unable to do any running this season, and they expected me to win the Norfolk championship. I was only beaten by 4 yards last year after leading all the way. I suppose you are busy now preparing handicaps for the boys. I hope you get a fine day. The Mag. was very interesting, and, was pleased to see that you ran a cross country race. Jack has gone back to France where he is acting as an interpreter. Walter is an apprentice at the Sunbeam Motor Works, Wolverhampton, where he is doing well. F. Doughty has left England as you know, but I have not had a word from him yet. Please give my kindest regards to all the Masters and wishing the Sports every success.

We were glad to see Swanston at Hitchin for the Past v. Present Match.

P. 0' KEEFE has a post as teacher at Dagenham. E. NORGAN has a post on the clerical staff of W. Carling & Co.

and we hear that he occasionally does a little reporting for the " Express."

FR. PRESIDENT'S FEAST.

On Wednesday, June 19th, after morning class, the school assembled in the Study Hall to await the advent of Father Presi-dent. On his arrival he was greeted with tumultuous cheering which he smilingly acknowledged. When he. had taken his place at the raised table, surrounded by the other members of the community, Murcutt, as captain, stepped forward and read an address. He dealt with our gratitude to Fr. Louis and our joy at recalling all he had done for us in the past ; expressing the hope that he would long be spared to continue governing us as a loving father in the future. He concluded by requesting the acceptance of a Rituale Romanum and four brass altar vases as a sign of our gratitude and appreciation. Redmond next presented a beautiful bouquet which had been arranged by the Sisters.

In reply, Fr. President,who was deeply moved by these protesta-tions of our loyalty,declared that it was his wish to guide and counsel rather than to rule. He dwelt for some time on the philosophy of authority, thanked us for the presentation and donated the vases and flowers to the Chapel. He then declared the morrow a free day and left the Hall amid renewed applause.

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Thursday was a day of general Communion, and Fr. President celebrated Solemn High Mass at 9 o'clock. Tin College wore a festive appearance and we were honoured with the visit of several Fathers from other houses of the Congregation.

The Concert given in the evening proved a great success, the only criticism possible being directed against the high temperature in the Hall.

The Programme was as follows :- PART I.

1. ' At a Solemn Music ' Recitation F. Murcutt.

'

2. Golden Slumbers ' Song W. Walsh. 3. Wynken, Blynken & Nod ' Recitation E. Jones. 4. Ave Maria ' Violin Solo J. Mc. Clain. 5. A Ballad of St. Christopher ' Recitation .. V. Dunn. 6. ' The Huntsman's Song ' Quartette

F. Downer, J. Murcutt, L. O'Dell and W. Walsh. 7. The Windmill ' Recitation A. Boden. 8. Polonaise ' in A Major (Chopin) Mr. Shrive. 9. THE GHOST OF JERRY BUNDLER'

(Play in One Act). Penfold L. White. Hirst E. Yates. Malcom F. Murcutt. Beldon B. Kearney. Somers T. Mc. Clain. Dr. Leek

F. Downer. George W. Goldsmith.

PART II. 1. ' The Eatanswill Election ' Monologue A. Downs. 2. Hatto's Judgment ' Recitation D. Conroy. 3. (a) Pack clouds away ' Part Song Choir.

(b) Vesper Hymn' (Lohengrin) Choir. 4. Le Renard et le Bouc ' Recitation L. Thamin. 5. A Fire Affair ' (5 0. K. St Michael's Experimental)

Cast : A. Flynn, W. Walsh and J. Vassallo. 6. The Night Wind ' Recitation B. Pyne. 7. ' La Vida ' Recitation E. Yates. 8. Marche Militaire ' (Piano duet) Mr. Shrive and F. Downer. 9. Too MUCH MONKEY ' (Farce) Rev. Frederick Bacon (Rector of Swallowdene) D. J Conroy: Professor Peter Verynighoffit M. Byrne. Barlow F. Downer. Sims Students V. Dunn. Thompson R. Grear. Bob Crabtree (farm labourer) J. Mc. Clain. Village Constable

T. Mc. Clain. THE SCHOOL SONG.

GOD SAVE THE KING.

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All the items were good, and it is difficult to know which to pick out for a special word of praise. The sketches provided com-plete contrast. The setting of the first was admirably arranged and Yates as the ghost contrived to induce more than one shudder in the audience. White was perfect in a small part and Murcutt and Downer helped to create the " atmosphere." Conroy's antics in " Too Much Monkey " caused roars of laughter, and he was ably supported by Byrne ; the characterization of J. Mc.Clain deserves a special word. " A Fire Affair " broadcast from behind a screen was an innovation which was most successful. Flynn tearing sheets, was, to use his own words, literally " ripping." Everyone admired Downs and a wonderful memory in the recitation of (most appro-priately) the Eatanswill Election. It was pleasing to notice too, a larger number of vocal items than last year.

At the close of the programme Fr. President addressed a few words of thanks to all who had taken part in the Concert, and all who had helped to make it a success. It was unfortunate that many parents and visitors were obliged to leave before the end in order to catch the last train to Town.

CRICKET NOTES. At the beginning of the season we had only three old Colours,

and it was some time before the final 1st XI. was chosen. Al-though on paper we have not had a successful season, the term has been full of cricket interest, and more important still, promises great things for next year. Cricket is beginning to be played as it should be. True there have been many weak strokes which have lost wickets, and at times the fielding has been appalling, but there is a higher cricket sense in the school, greater appreciation of pro-perly executed strokes, and among the younger members of the X I. at least, a very real desire to improve and a willingness to listen to advice.

The brunt of the attack in all matches has fallen on the two Stanleys, and they have both been very successful. The hard wick-ets have been in favour of the faster bowling of Stanley i., but Stanley ii. bowls a more consistent length and with any help from the pitch can make the ball turn very quickly from the off. Considering this is his first season in the XI. he deserves to be congratulated and to be pointed out to younger bowlers in the school as a model of persevering practice.

Stanley i. has also had a most successful season with the bat, having made several very useful scores. He still has a tendency towards rash hitting at the beginning of his innings. Comerford's success has been varied, due chiefly to the fact that his forward play is so weak. Murcutt has played one or two good knocks and

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has been a good captain in coming to the rescue at critical moments. Palmer although small, has the makings of a really good bat. He has a particularly attractive square cut. Unfortunately he has marred his success by weakness in the field. Walsh, too, promises well, and Myers with a little steadiness could be a good bowler.

Following are the 1st XI. fixture list and chief scores :-Date. Oponents. Ground. Result. May 8—Shefford Away Drawn

„ 22—Hitchin Grammar School Home Drawn „ 25—Alleyne's Grammar School Home Lost

June 1—Hitchin Town " A " XI. Away Lost „ 5—Hitchin Grammar School Away Abandoned „ 8—Hitchin Town " A " XI. Home Won „ 12—Hitchin Grammar School Away Lost „ 15—St. Ippolyts Away Lost „ 16—St. Stephen's Guild Home Won „ 19—Alleyne's Grammar School Away Won „ 22—St. Christopher School Away Lost „ 25—Hitchin G.P.O. Home Won „ 29—St. Christopher School Home Lost „ 30-01d Boys' Home Lost

July 10—Shefford Home Lost May 8th—1st XI. v. Shefford. Away.

A good game which ended in the unusual result of a tie. Our innings started with a sensation, Fr. Andrew being l.b.w. first ball. We recovered later owing to a good stand by J. Stanley and B. Kearney.

Scores :- 1st XL Shefford.

Fr. Andrew 1.b.w. 13, Bryant 0 H. Bryant b. Bryne 9 B. Comerford c. Cook, b. D. Brown b. Stanley, J. 7

Bryant 7 W. Godfrey b. Bryne 1 D. Castagnini b. Collet 0 Rev. Kingnorth b. Stanley, J. Stanley c. Dillen, b. J. 1

Collet 23 J. Cook c. and b. Stanley, G. Murcutt c. Godfrey, b J. 16

Collet 1 E. Hazelden b. Fr. Andrew 2 B. Kearney b. Collet 16 A. Collet b. Stanley, J. 0 M. Bryne c. Hazelden, b. J. Purfield b. Stanley, J. 4

Godfrey 1 B. Dillen b. Stanley, J. 13 A. De Souza b. Collet 0 S. Bridle c. Murcutt b. F, Downer b. Godfrey 0 Bryne 0 W. Stanley not out 1 S. Cowley not out 2 E. Palmer c. Kingnorth, b.

Purfield 6

Extras 7 Extras .... 7 — —

62 62 — —

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Bowling—Stanley, J., 6 for 25 ; Bryne, M., 3 for 20 ; Fr. Andrew, 1 for 11.

May 22nd—v. Hitchin Grammar School. Home. The Grammar School opened very strongly, and after a collapse

declared at 107 for 9, W. Stanley proving himself the best of the College bowlers. Time alone prevented the visitors gaining a sub-stantial victory.

1st XI. Hitchin Grammar School.

J. Stanley c. Lake b. Irani 0 Lake run out 21 B. Comerford b. Irani 3 Chown b. Murcutt 30

D. Castagnini l.b.w. b. Irani 11 Irani c. Downer b. Murcutt 2 G. Murcutt l.b.w. b. Irani 0 Payne l.b.w. b. Stanley, W. 19

M. Bryne b. Irani 3 Watkins c. White b. Stan- B. Kearney c. Chown b ley, W. 4

Bedwell 2 Bedwell c. Comerford b.

F. Downer b. Irani 2 Stanley, W 0

L. White c. Lake, b. Bedwell 4 Bishop 1.b.w. b. Stanley, J 0 A. 'De Souza c. and b. Bed- Beale b. Stanley, J. 4

welt 6 Smith run out 0

W. Stanley not out 0 Waters not out 0

E. Palmer not out 0 Mager not out 9

Extras 12 Extras 17

Total (for 9) 43 Total (for 9) 107

Bowling—W. Stanley, 3 for 21 ; J. Stanley, 2 for 24 ; Murcutt, 2 for 18.

May 25th—1st XL v. Alleyne's Grammar School. Home. A good match played in ideal cricket weather. All our bats-

men succumbed to a very moderate attack. The fielding of the side showed improvement.

1st XI. Alleyne's Grammar School. B. Comerford b. Walker 16 R. G. Bowles c. Downer b. D. Castagnini c. McCrow b Stanley, J. 16

Walker 15 G. F. Franklin c. Stanley, J. A. De Souza c. McKay b b. Stanley, W. 10

Bowles 0 B. Walker b. Murcutt 12 J. Stanley c. Prater b. Frank- K. Prater c. Stanley, W. b

lin 4 Stanley, J. 3

G. Murcutt 1.b.w. b. Bowles 2 J. Antony b. Stanley, W 2 B. Kearney st. Savill b. W. Franklin run out 10

Franklin 8 S. Sheppard b. Stanley, J. 0 M. Bryne c. Prater b. Frank- J. Savill b. Stanley, J. 1

lin 0 J. McKay

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W. Stanley c. Walker b. E. Watson

Bowles 1 M. McCrow, c. Downer b.

E. Palmer not out 0 Stanley, J. 0 V. Dunn st. Savill b. Frank-

lin 0

F. Downer run out 0

Extras 6 Extras 9

Total 52 Total (for 9) 63

Bowling—Stanley, J., 5 for 20 ; Stanley, W., 2 for 16 ; Murcutt, 1 for 7.

June 1st—1st XL v. Hitchin Town " A." Away. 1st XI. Hitchin Town 2nd XI.

Fr. Andrew b. Powderham 1 W. Allen l.b.w. b. Stanley,

B. Comerford b. Sells 9 W. 21

J. Stanley b. Brown 45 W. Hill c. Fr. Andrew b. D. Castagnini l.b.w. b Stanley, J. 9

Sells 0 W. Tookey c. Bryne b. Fr. G. Murcutt c. Hill, b. Pow- Andrew 0

derham 10 S. Powderham c. Palmer A. De Souza b. Sells 0 b. Fr. Andrew 6 M. Bryne b. Powderham 1 F. Rutland b. Murcutt 24 B. Kearney b. Rutland 7 W. Sale b. Stanley, J. 1

W. Stanley b. Brown 3 J. Sells c. Castagnini b.

L. White b. Brown 8 Stanley, J. 0

E. Palmer not out 1 K. Brown not out 21 R. Dawson not out 12 A. Ludwick did not bat A. Wingrave „

Extras 12 Extras 7

Total 97 Total (for 7) 100

Bowling—Stanley, J., 3 for 23 ; Stanley, W., 1 for 6 ; Murcutt, G., 1 for 4 ; Fr. Andrew, 2 for 32.

June 8th—1st XI. v. Hitchin Town " A." Home.

1st XI. Hitchin Town " A."

Fr. Andrew b. Coxall 2 W. Hill c. and b. Stanley, J. 11 B. Comerford b. Coxall 2 W. Tookey b. Stanley, W. 4

J. Stanley st. Allen b. Rutland 50 C. Coxall c. Murcutt b. D. Castagnini run out 0 Stanley, J. 0

G. Murcutt b. Coxall 4 R. Dawson b. Stanley, W. 1 B. Kearney c. Coxall b E. Rutland b. Stanley, W. 5

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Rutland 0 C. Weston b. Stanley, J. 3

M. Bryne b. Coxall 3 A. Powderham run out 5

L. White b. Rutland 2 A. Wingrave not out A. De Souza b. Coxall 11 W. Marriott b. Murcutt 10

W. Stanley run out 0 W. Allen b. Stanley, J. 9

E. Palmer not out 2 A. Myers c. Bryne b. Stan-

ley, W. 0 Extras 11 Extras 4

Total 92 Total 69

Bowling—Stanley, J ., 4 for 25 ; Stanley, W., 4 for 20 ; Murcutt, 1 for 15.

June 15th—v. Hitchin Grammar School. Away. The College put up a very poor show in all departments and

were soundly beaten. 1st XI. Hitchin Grammar School.

B. Comerford b. Payne 3 Lake b. Castagnini 7 D. Castagnini c. Chown b. Chown b. Stanley 13

Irani 0 Irani not out 25

J. Stanley b. Irani 6 Smith not out 5

G. Murcutt b. Payne 6 Watkins

B. Kearney run out 3 Payne M. Bryne c. Watkins b Beale

Bedwell 6 Bedwell did not bat L. White c. Payne b. Bed- Bishop

well 0 Quince A. De Souza b. Bishop 0 Mager

W. Stanley b. Bishop 0

E. Palmer not out 0 A. Myers c. Beale b. Bishop 0

Extras 4 Extras 10

Total 27 Total (for 2) 65

June 15th —1st XI. v. St. Ippolyts. Away. St. Ippolyts. 1st XI.

E. Prime c. White b. Stan- B. Comerford b. Breed, H. 3 ley, J. 11 G. Murcutt c. Garner b.

L. Garner b. Murcutt 12 Breed, H. 0 C. Breed c. Murcutt b. J. Stanley c. Breed, R. b

Stanley, W. 3 Foster 0 L. Breed c. De Souza b. Fr. Beck c. Breed, H. b

Stanley, W. 0 Foster 32 A. Turner b. Stanley, W. 1 D. Castagnini b. Foster 4

H. Breed b. Stanley, J . 3 B. Kearney b.Foster 3 H. Roberts b. Stanley, J 0 M. Bryne b. Breed, H. 2 G. Breed c. Murcutt b. L. White b. Foster 2

Stanley, J. 4 A. De Souza c. Garner b. H. Foster b. Stanley, W. 8 Breed, H. 0 A. Gray not out 2 W. Stanley c. H. Breed b. W. Breed -c. Stanley, J. -b Foster 0

Stanley, W. 5 E. Palmer not out 0

Extras 8 Extras 9

Total 57 Total 54

Bowling—Stanley, J., 4 for 22 ; Stanley, W., 5 for 14 ; Murcutt, 1 ;for 13.

June 19th-1st XI. v. Alleyne's Grammar School. Away. A fine match, and it was anybody's game until the last ball.

Stanley, J., bowled a consistent length all through and thoroughly deserved his fine average.

1st XI. A.G.S. B. Comerford b. Bowles 31 Prater c. Murcutt b. Stan- G. Murcutt l.b.w. b. Frank- ley, W. 12

lin 2 G. Franklin b. Stanley, J. 0 D. Castagnini b. Franklin 3 Walker b. Murcutt 19 M. Bryne l.b.w. b. Franklin 7 Bowles 1.b.w. b. Stanley, J 8 L. White c. Savill b. Frank- Anthony b. Murcutt

lin 9 Franklin 1.13.w. b. Stanley, J. 10 E. Palmer b. Franklin 4 Kemp c. and b. Stanley, W. 8 A. De Souza b. Franklin 0 Duty 1.b.w. b. Stanley, J 0 J. Stanley st. Savill b. Shep- Sheppard run out 6

pard 20 Savill c. Stanley, J. b. Stan- B. Kearney c. Prater b ley, W. 2-

Bowles 0 Mackay not out 9 A. Myers b. Franklin 0 W. Stanley not out 1

Extras 12 Extras 11

Total Total 74

Bowling—Stanley, J., 4 'for 32 ; Stanley, W., 3 for 24 ; Murcutt, G. 2 for 10.

June 22nd-1st XI: v: St. Christopher. Away. 1st XI. St. Christopher;

B. Comerford b. Morgan 0 Muncaster b. Stanley, J. ..... 13 G. Murcutt c. Leslie b Dolton b. Stanley, J. 4

Morgan 0 Kendle c. Stanley, J. b.

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J. Stanley c. Dolton b. Murcutt 1

Morgan 0 Brooks b. Stanley, J. 39 D. Castagnini c. Brooks, b. Moore b. Stanley, W. 28

Muncaster 1 Morgan b. Stanley, J. 6 L. White (absent, hurt) 0 Rutton b. Stanley, J. 0

E. Palmer b. Morgan 10 Scott b. Stanley, W. 1 B. Kearney c. Scott b. Watson c. Castagnini b

Muncaster 0 Stanley, J. 1

M. Bryne run out 12 Leslie b. Stanley, W. 1 E. Yates b. Muncaster 0 Pearce not out 0

W. Stanley not out 9 W. Walsh c. Scott b. Mun-

caster 6

Extras 9 Extras 18

Total 47 Total 112

Bowling—Stanley, 4 for 30 ; Stanley, W., 3 for 25 ; Murcutt, G., 1 for 15.

June 29th—1st XL v. St. Christopher Home. 1st XI. St. Christopher's.

E. Palmer b. Morgan 4 Muncaster b. Murcutt 9 D. Castagnini c. Bolton b. Dolton b. Stanley, W. 1

Morgan 4 Kendle, b. Stanley, J. 36

J. Stanley b. Kendle 12 Brooks not out 50

G. Murcutt b. Leslie 21 Moore b. Stanley, J. 3

W. Walsh b. Kendle 0 Morgan b. Stanley, J. 0

M. Bryne b. Leslie 3 Rutton c. Kearney b. Stan- B. Kearney c. Brooks b ley, J. 0

Kendle 0 Scott c. Murcutt b. Stan- W. Stanley run out 4 ley, W. 0 E. Yates b. Leslie 2 Watson not out 8

A. Myers run out 2 Leslie 1 did not bat

R. Favart not out 9 Pearce

Extras 3 Extras 12

Total 64 Total (for 8) 119

Bowling—Stanley, J., 4 for 23 ; Stanley, W., 2 for 47 ; Murcutt, G., 1 for 27.

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June 30th—1st XI. v. Old Michaeleans. Home. The Present began in fine style, J. Stanley, capturing two

wickets in his first over. A good innings by Ward however pulled up the score. The fielding of the Present was better than usual, and J. Stanley's figures were really remarkable in view of the Past total 0. 15-5, M. 9, R. 12, W. 5. He was unfortunate in receiving a nasty knock on the head while batting which obliged him to retire.

Old Michaeleans. 1st RI. A. Stuart l.b.w. b. Stanley, Fr. Beck c. Stuart b. Molloy 0

W. 17 B. Comerford b. Ward 6 J. Molloy b. Stanley, J. 0 J. Stanley retired hurt 6

L. Goulding b. Stanley, J. 0 D. Castagnini b. Ward 1 F. Ward c. Fr. Beck b. Stan- E. Palmer c. Lambert b

ley, W. 72 Molloy 3 P. Cahill b. Stanley, J. .. I Br. Howitt b. Cahill, P. 17 G. Lambert c. Byrne b. G. Murcutt b. Molloy 0

Stanley, W. 0 W. Walsh c. Molloy b. P. O'Keeffe b. Stanley, W 10 0' Keeffe 8 F Scott b. Stanley, J. 10 M. Byrne b. Cahill 6 J. Whitaker b. Stanley, J. 4 B. Kearney not out 5

C. acey b. Fr. Andrew .. 3 W. Stanley l.b.w. b. Gould- D. Cahill not out 0 ing 3

Extras 12 Extras 7

Total 125 Total 64

Bowling—J. Stanley, 5 for 12 ; W. Stanley, 1 for 44 ; F. Andrew, 1 for 36.

THE FIRST ELEVEN. F. G. MURCUTT. Captain. Colours. Has several useful

strokes on the leg side and has played one or two good innings. In bowling he has sacrificed length to an elusive swerve and has proved very expensive in consequence. At times his setting of the field has been open to criticism.

D. H. CASTAGNINI. Vice-Captain. Colours. Has had an unlucky season with the bat, but more than makes up for this by splendid fielding and keenness. He might become a good wicket-keeper.

J. STANLEY. Colours. The best all-rounder in the team. His bowling has been helped by the dry pitches, but he has frequently been dropped behind the wicket. A hard-hitting batsman with a powerful drive and a rather dangerous push through the slips.

L. WHITE. Colours. Kept wicket very well until an injury put him out of action. His taking on the leg side is magnificent, but he is slow to stump. Makes no pretensions to batsmanship, but can hit very hard.

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W. STANLEY. Colours. One of the most valuable finds of the season. A steady bowler with an easy action -and splendid length. On a soft wicket he could be really good. A steady bat but inclined to " funk " fast bowling.

B. COMERFORD. Colours. Has adapted the " two eyed stand and weakened all his forward play. Has a very effective chop cut hut uses it rather too indiscriminately. Has kept wicket on several occasions fairly successfully.

M. BYRNE. Has several good strokes on the off side, but takes a long time to get set. Has proved a useful change bowler on occasion.

B. KEARNEY. A steady somewhat slow batsman with little inclination to take risks. Average field.

E. PALMER. Shows signs of future brilliance as a bat with several well executed strokes. A keen student of the theory of batting ; but far from brilliant in the field.

A. DE. SOUZA. Has had a disappointing season. His forward play is most correct but he indulges in it without discrimination.

W. WALSH. Very keen, with several good strokes. Has more than once lost his wicket by impetuosity. Good field.

The following have also played :—F. DOWNER, E. YATES, A MYERS, V. DUNN.

BATTING AVERAGES.

Times Most in Innings. Not Out Runs. Innings. Average.

J. Stanley 16 2 209 50 14.5

B. Comerford 15 — 106 31 7.7 E. Palmer 14 6 54 14 6.8

W. Stanley 14 6 47 10* 5.9 G. Murcutt 16 90 26 5.4

B. Kearney 16 2 73 24 5,4 D. Castagnini 16 1 90 25* 4.9 W. Walsh 6 26 12 4.3 M. Byrne 16 1 55 12 3.8 L. White 8 — 30 9 3.7 A. De Souza 9 17 11 2.0

' BOWLING AVERAGES. Overs. Maidens. Runs. Wickets. Average.

J. Stanley ..... 200 69 353 64 •5.5 D. Castagnini 4 1 8 1 8.0

W. Stanley 11.6.2 31 278 31 9.0

Murcutt 59 7 197 6 12.3 M. Byrne 34 3 102 5 20.4