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TODay with the greatly lessened revenue apparent everywhere, in all lines, and all sections, the difficulty of making both ends meet is becoming more and more acute. The University Student like everyone else has naturally felt the pinch, and finds examination fees and the like now increasingly difficult to meet.
So far there has been no reduction in these fees by the University authorities. Their point of view can easily be understood. They like the rest of us have anticipated a decrease in the number sitting the examinations in the future and therefore do not feel justified in lowering the fees desirous though they may be of lightening the Students' burden.
There are thus two sides to the question and it should be thoroughly fought out. And at the same time the lecture fees and the fees for degrees themselves should also be subjected to scrutiny. They at least appear to be very lopsided, the degree of LL.B., for instance, costing £7 7s. 0d., whilst the corresponding degree in Arts is only £1 Is. A glance through the other degree fees shows no set system throughout the whole series, some degrees being picked out for harsh treatment apparently haphasardly.
* * * * * * * *
There seems little doubt, that the record of this University in its Sporting World should be better. For a University gaining the cream of the province's talent from the Secondary Schools it is rather strange that the College should have such a poor record as in the immediate past few years
The Year
Many are of the opinion that the Secondary Colleges are not producing the men of the calibre of a few years ago; that the Colleges are no longer the training grounds of Athletic champions but we cannot subscribe to that view. There is nothing new in that view-point—past champions are always the greatest.
However as in all sports institutions at one time or another, several Victoria College Clubs are in a period of change. The Champions of the past few years have just dropped out of the various sports and the youngsters who have been compelled to take their places are not as yet sufficiently experienced in the first grade to be consistent enough to win. There is no need to worry; Victoria College Will come again.
Dear "Smad,"—
We in our sent of learning naturally take interest ill objects about us which are links with the past of historic value. We must not, however, confuse this laudable inclination with foolish sentimentality which leads us to perpetuate useless relics, keeping fresh in our minds memories of nocuous habits which have long since been replaced by more civilised customs.
The object of my letter, Sir, is that we may approach the City Authorities with a view to removing the Mount Street graveyard, whose strange monuments form such an irrelevant contrast to the stately towers of our University Building. Not only would the site be advantageously acquired by the funds of the Hurley Bequest (named after the famous Christian of the twentieth century) for the erection of a School of Pure and Applied Eugenics, but spectacle of the tombstones is a depressing reminder of the days when our sentimental ancestors buried their dead, i.e.. actually interred in. the earth the bodies of their departed friends—a custom so different from our present efficient methods of corpse utilisation.
These methods were originally established (after a heated conflict with the Church, it will be renumbered) to remedy the then acute shortage of hormones. Of course the supply is now almost entirely of synthetic products; still, many people prefer natural to synthetic hormones in controlling their emotions and adjusting their temperaments. The original cause of corpse utilisation having most disappeared, the practice still has been continued and supplies annually a valuable amount of blood especially Group A blood), nervous material including conditioned synapses) bone, sense organs, etc., besides hormones.
Of course,, in the old days disease was known, and this in any case would have rendered the process impossible. It was not till
Then, again, we products of ectogenesis must not forget that in the twentieth century the earth's inhabitants often had a stronger bond of sentiment with their dead than we do; they actually had direct parents—just as the "sub-homo sapiens" species has to-day. In fact, it was not till near the end of the century that the first human was perfected by laboratory processes. It is interesting to recall that often even the intelligentsia spent quite a large part of their lives in the various aspects of parenthood. With this disproportionately large emotional interest, no wonder they failed to become the "rational animals" they so proudly dubbed themselves.
But these clogs to progress being now happily removed, is it not time likewise to remove their grotesque souvenirs and to erect in their place the proposed School, in accordance with our century old College motto: "Use and Beauty."
Roy Diederich—for again making the Wellington Representative Rugby Team.
Cathie Forde—for winning the Plunket Medal Contest; the Old Favourite comes in at last.
The Football Club—for running such a bright and enjoyable dance.
The Harriers' Club—for their quick rise to prominence.
H. F. "Chas" Bollard—for making the New Zealand Hockey Team, which is doing so well in Australia.
The Fourth a Football Team—for keeping so close to the leaders.
A. H. Scotnet and G. Crossley—for performing so well in the Plunket Medal Contest, despite their unsympathetic, subjects. Try again, boys.
Mary Cooley—for her excellent production of "The Ship."
Mr. F. Glasgow, the
First Student: You can't tell me you'll be on time for your lecture—it's quarter past now.
Second ditto: Oh! That's all right. It's Companies I'm going to.
Just back from a visit to Sydney and its bridge, Mr. D. Thomson is full of interesting news of the social life of Sydney University, or "Uni."
Though there are many unions in the student life of the University, the visitor, or the fresher soon learns that "The Union" means only the Society sacred to the men students and the building this Society occupies. Mr. Thomson says: Women may not cross the threshold except on such august occasions as General University Gatherings in the Hall, or by special invitation from the Board of Directors— quite a Monastery in good sooth!
The Union building, a fine two-storeyed pile, was the gift of the University Senate to the social life of the University men.
On entering the building the visitor noticed an up-to-date mercer's shop and an agency of the Commonwealth Savings Bank. Also on the ground floor are the offices and cloak room, and spacious Concert Hall with a gallery and motion picture projector, and in the ante-room there is a barber's shop— women not admitted.
A common room on the ground floor provides comfortable accommodation, while upstairs there is a pleasant reading room, and a billiard and a games room as well. On this floor is the Union office and Hoard room and, a committee room.
From the landing at the stair-head the visitor is confronted with a galaxy of doors. On the left doors lead to the Gallery and to the Reading Room. In front are the doors of the Union room and Committee rooms; and on the right along the passage doors opening into games rooms, balcony, and all over the place.
Had Mr. Thomson not been shepherded by an officer of the Union he would still have been trying to find out what mysteries lurked behind all those closed doors. (Tut! tut! Tommy!—Ed.).
Refreshments are provided in the Refrectory and Bevery. The Bevery (or self-service Cafeteria) is for the Union members only, but the Refectory provides meals for all students.
During term The Union issues a weekly paper, "The Union Recorder," which has a circulation of 2000 copies. A weekly newspaper, "Honi Soit," is also issued by the students.
Other facilities included in The Union service are a shop where students can obtain most of their requirements, including wearing apparel, stationery, drawing instruments, and china and other articles bearing the University arms; a Book Exchange where old text books may be disposed of for not more than two-thirds of the price of new books; photographic and developing service; car-hire service: typing and clerical service, and umbrellas for hire at. sixpence a time.
The cloak room must be used, for coats and hats must not be taken into The Union. The cloak room attendant issues a check gratis, and this system has effectively frustrated the pick-pocket and stray marauder from the street.
Surrounded by the buildings of The Union is a tree shaded green known as the Pleasance. Here it is very pleasant to rest an' be thankfu' after wandering around in the hot air of a Sydney March day. To this delightful spot there are numerous entrances, some from the buildings and others from the main pathways.
The writer is glad to place on record the hospitality and courtesy shown him as the guest of The Union and as a student of Victoria College, and hopes the account he has given will interest all students of this College who are dreaming of a splendid future for our own student life. He hopes for something like The Union, but not quite so monastic.
The interest that the College Professors show in the University can be seen from the numbers of them present at the First Fifteen games each Saturday. It is great to know that their interest in the College extends far beyond the lecture room.
* * * *
We learn that Ian Macallan, the all-rounder in the College First Eleven, has been temporarily transferred to Dunedin. It is to be sincerely hoped that he will be back in this city before the opening of the Cricket Season, otherwise the Eleven will greatly miss his free batting and left-handed trundling.
* * * *
J. O. J. Malfroy, one-time student of Victoria College, and a member of the Great British Team in the Argentine a few years ago, has, we understand from American papers, continued his interest in Rugby whilst in the States recently. As coach of his University Rugby team there, he has been endeavouring to foster the game in the land of the Stars and Stripes. Another New Zealander, S. Cabot, of Otago University, an ex-All Black, has been putting in good work coaching there, too.
* * * *
The inauguration of a Common Room Committer at the end of last year has definitely done a great amount of good. Before its advent the Common Room furniture was considered a mark for anyone feeling at all destructive, and was well on the way to total destruction. The committee seems, however to have put a stop to this wanton waste.
Whenever a group gets together and football is the topic it seems almost inevitable that sooner or later someone will put the same one question, "What is the greatest try you have ever seen?"
The answer seems to be very different.
From "Well, the best I've seen was Porter's potted goal against Britain for Wellington—Oh, you meant try—now, that's a different matter. . . ." to a hundred other sensational stories.
For football has been played in this country a long time now, and a great number of tries have been scored in that period. Nevertheless a few from that, unending number can well be recorded.
Always fresh in the mind when such scores are mentioned is that wonderful try scored by Albert Falwasser, the New Zealand Maori All Black, the famous Hawke's Bay wing three-quarter, in the Hawke's Bay - Wellington game in
Again, the fine try scored by Albert Jackson, the New Zealand University and Wellington Representative wing for Victoria College some few years ago now. It was a bleak day, with a driving southerly wind. 'Varsity were defending for dear life on their own goal, with the driving wind and rain in their faces. Penned in on their line, it was all they could do to put the ball out of play when they did get it. At last, in desperation, Jackson got the ball on the wing and ran. He seemed to have no room to work in, but he made it. With his long raking stride he set off down field. Several times his opponents with tackles staggered him, but his high stepping run made him a difficult man to bring down. Each time he somehow kept his feet and kept on. From behind his own goal-line to the other end of the field—a one hundred and ten yards' run, but Jackson did it. And when with himself over the enemy's line, Jackson, who was unfortunately short-sighted, thought an opponent was on him, he passed to Aitken, the 'Varsity skipper, who had kept with him, and it was he who actually forced the ball. One of the finest tries ever scored on any park.
Again, in the Test match New Zealand - Britain, in
These tries can be multiplied again and again— always someone has one better in his mind: Doug. Mackay's try against Athletic last year when he beat man after man in his spectacular run down the line; Jack Ruru's magnificent burst, when he crashed over in Bassett's arms in
There was once a University College with a registrar so kind that when students were a little behind with their fees he said: "Don't worry, boys and girls, I know things are hard at present; pay when you can, and whatever you do, don't stint your-selves in the meantime."
Small Boy: "Please, can I have a programme?"
Doorkeeper: "Certainly, here you are."
S.B.: "Please, how much are they?"
D.: "Oh, these are free."
S.B.: "Then, please, can I have three?"
* * * *
First Woman Student: He isn't the kind of man I'd care to meet in the dark.
Second ditto: Yes! The dark is so handicapping.
Come and see the 'Varsity ballets.
In response to insistent demand we have decided to commence a feature column dealing with some of the deeper problems affecting the daily lives of students in the College. With great difficulty and at great cost we have been fortunate enough to have secured the services of a man of vast experience in matters relating to modern problems. He has given us permission to publish his name at a later date. If you are troubled about, your boy friend, girl friend, wife, motor-car, or dog, ask us. We will help you.
"Diddled" writes.—"[ have twice entered the Common Common Room recently, and found a solitary couple there in silent communion. What am I to do?
Answer.—Why hesitate. If he's a smaller man than you are it shouldn't be difficult. "Puritan" writes.—A man at recent Dance at V.U.C. took me out side to a car and produced a bottle of "Knockem cockeyed" Cocktail and said "Have some giggle-juice, dear"? Tell me what should I do.
Answer.—I can only refer you to Mr. Rollings.
"Eager" writes.—I am madly in love with the most beautiful ravishing girl I have ever seen. I see her in the College Hall every Friday night. How can I meet her?
Answer.—You must be mistaken! Surely it is not Victoria College to which you refer.
I feel I should like to be Greta Garbo. Should I join the Dramatic Club?—"Sexsurge.
Answer—No; join the S.C.M.
"Innocentiay" writes—"How can I concentrate on lectures this year? Two little love birds kick and coo in front of me without cessation. I try to pay attention, but my gaze somehow seems to wander on them. I am really so em harassed.
Answery.—I think that there is something sinister in your intentions. I shrewdly suspect that you have an eye on the man yourself, and I will not aid you to do anything to separate the two happy ones.
"He-Man" writes.—"For some weeks past I have noticed six charming damsels studying every day at a corner library table. I am simply dying to meet them, either jointly or severally, and could you suggest a way that I could get a "look-in"?
Answer.—The solution, "He-man," is perfectly simple. Let a large Chinese "banger" off in their immediate proximity. One, or all will be sure to faint. Then rush in, and take the most suitable in your arms—and its "O.K."
Brookey v. Eskimo Pie Vendors. ( 1932 Smad I.). Action for libel, petty larceny, and vending of miscellaneous goods.
Lord Sparker:—It appears that at the "Extrav." two penetrably disguised agents of the defendant Company extorted from Brookey a promise that he would purchase Eskimo pies from them. At the interval he bought three pies from one; and the other agent, by threatening further publicity, forced him to buy three more. Further, the plaintiff alleges he thought it was "pi," not "pie."
The defence on the first count is that as the agents were part-time students they did not recognise the plaintiff; but surely a knowledge of Brookey's habits is part of the training of the young student. Symes v. University of N.Z. must be distinguished as that decision turns on interpretation, whereas here the student turns on Brookey. But was there libel? "Libel is any statement, or abstaining from stating, partial or total, fact or fiction, true or false, intentionally or accidentally, in public, sub rose, or in camera."—Kornish on Libel. This authority is very persuasive, but I cannot find these thirteen elements in the facts; in short, the action does not lie merely because the witnesses do.
Brookey claims that he made one promise to the two agents both together present, etc.; they claim a promise to each in consideration for a promise "not to bore him." Comments on consideration completely contravert the company's contention, as such a promise is unenforceable except as by an insane carpenter. Moreover, a restitutio in integrum is manifestly impossible. The plaintiff cannot have redress for gratuitous purchase and consumption; if he Must supplement the statutory three meals per diem he must pay for the privilege. Taylor v. Laird cannot apply, as the plaintiff had an opportunity to refuse. No order will be made.
The third charge presented a most difficult problem, and I was in a dilemma between the devil and the deep sea until the devil was scared by the dilemma's horns. Apparently the 'Varsity atmosphere has biassed Brookey's faculties—to use the term legally—away from Agriculture. He "affidaves" that he understood that he was to receive a formula evolved by the Eskimos for reducing the temperature on a hot night by calculating "pi" to infinity, thus reducing the radius ventris; whereas he did not receive even an Eskimo. The Court is not responsible for the plaintiff's inability to distinguish mathematics from ice-cream, and I am not prepared to restrain the Company from selling its goods as "Eskimo pies." There has been a "sell." but caveat emptor.
Plush J.:—I agree, and I have before me the written concurrence of my learned brother Lord Luvaduk, who is unfortunately indisposed through over-indulgence in frozen cornflour.
Costs fixed at the scale of £5 5s per charge, plus £1 1s. oath fees, £1 Is. witnesses' expenses; and a further £1 Is. cross-examination fees: exempted from the provisions of the National Expenditure Adjustment Act.
[Under great pressure, we have reluctantly acceded to a request to mention names of learned counsel in this one case, in consideration of a sum too fabulous to be believed.—Ed.]
Is the 'Varsity girl without charm?
Alice was surprised at the difference in the room in which she found herself from that which she had just left. Here there were comfortable chairs, cosy divans and a great blazing fire, and the walls were decorated with interesting and beautiful pictures. The other quarters were cramped and cold, and only one or two Parisian nudes broke the monotony of the dusty walls.
The Mad Hatter seated himself on the most comfortable chair. The Walrus sank gracefully on to the divan and motioned Alice to do the same. The King remained standing, and he looked so sad that Alice felt sorry for him.
"Won't you sit down," she invited timidly.
The King looked at her blankly.
"I have been deposed," he said dully; "I have no right to be here at all. I am deposed."
The May Hatter tapped his head significantly and fell asleep.
'Why were you deposed?" queried Alice, and blushed at her own boldness.
The King looked past her through the open window, at the inviting stretch of tennis courts.
"There was a constitution," he began.
"Anti Acido builds up the constitution," cried the Mad Hatter, suddenly awakening. The Walrus gave him a dig in the ribs.
"There was a constitution," continued the King sadly. "I wished to change it—to make innovations that would make me a despot. It would have been 'La tout c'est moi,' and I failed."
There was a silence while the King's eyes twinkled with tears, and the Mad Hatter snored in measured crescendo.
"I gave them those tennis courts you see below," the King cried with sudden passion, and Alice following his gaze could see the cracks in the smooth surface below and the grass which was already greenily peeping through, and the ragged grey nets that waved disconsolately in the breeze.
"I gave them my hours. I gave them a typiste of whom to be proud, I gave them all, and I wanted to give them a new constitution which they would not take—and I am no longer King."
Alice felt very sad. She wanted to help.
"Can't you make new constitution for yourself "
The Walrus guffawed, and Alice felt that she had said the wrong thing.
"However der tag will come," muttered the King, "I will be King again."
From the distance came voices, one of which was singing raucously.
The King looked terrified.
"Hide me, hide me," he screamed. "It is the new Cabinet. They will kill me."
The Mad Hatter woke up with a start and sneezed a raspberry.
Alice held the King under the divan, and now Alice could hear the words sung in a woman's voice.
"That is the Countess Julia, the worst plotter of them all," groaned the King from beneath the divan.
This place bears not the remotest resemblance to an Eden, for there are enough serpents in it to satisfy any self-respecting collector of reptiles. More than enough. The serpent in Eden, we are told, represented knowledge. This would of course be enough to damn it in the opinion of any respectable theologian. One would suppose it therefore to be numbered among the elect in a University. On the contrary, however, the other species abound in plenty and are blest.
There is the serpent of the evangelist. He is all over the place reforming things and people. He breeds on the third floor up in an atmosphere of holiness and sends his reptilian progeny abroad to sanctify the unholy places. I wish someone would cage him and his brood until they learn that sanctity, like charity, a virtue of which they have never heard, begins at home.
There is the little reptile which exhibits thoughts on Communism wherever a clear space can be found on the walls. He even draws hammers and sickles on the walls of the Common Common-Room, thereby making it more uninhabitable than before. Between him and the Chess Club there seems to be a strange affinity, though doubtless it is only one of abode. Let. him cease from his pranks, or some of us will retaliate by pasting up some of the newer opinions of Mr. Ramsay MacDonald. That will make him squirm until he dislocates himself.
Then there is the poker adict. He exhibits greasy pack in a corner. In a short while his venomous hisses stream out in filthy flow, until they are heard in the corridors. I wish someone would, hammer him into insensibility and then mow him with the sickle.
Then we descend to Avernus. Report hath it that the women's room has serpents in abundance. Nasty little things which crawl in the mud. Their main items of food are scandal, followed by a juicy piece of chewed reputation. Faugh! The sight of the things sickens me.
We must have a remedy. I suggest that these noisome pieces of animate matter be collected carefully with tongs and placed together where they can war on each other. It would be a war from which the rest of us would pray that none of the combatants emerge alive.
(Well, now! Who'd have thought it!—Ed.
Dear "Smad,"—
Perhaps you could make something out of this— it happened during a recent psychology lecture:
Student (allegedly fearless): While stepping off the footpath the other day, I was hit by a passing car, and fell down, striking my head on the pavement.
The learned Professor: Were you stunned?
Now, I ask you, what business was it of his?— "Perplexed."
["Professors are like that.—Ed.]
Keep Sat., Sept. 10th., free. See you in the Gym. at 8 p.m.
Dear "Smad,"—
The Committee of the Women's' Club wish to voice a protest. After toil and unlimited trouble the hard-working Committee furnished the Common Room like new, and then after a stern fight wrested a cheque for half the expenses from the tight-fisted fathers of our University.
Now to our astonishment and dismay, we discover that a horde of vandals have invaded this redecorated room, the apple of our eye. We suspect the S.C.M. These violators of all decency and order have ignored the ash trays and the snowy dustbin; placed their feel on the radiators, and sullied the purity of the wall-paper—even "Elnora" is not safe from chocolate papers.
Though no stickers for tidiness, vet the Committee implore the women students as a whole—we refrain from unduly stigmatising the S.C.M. and the Science Society—not only to use the dustbin and ashtrays, but to refrain from placing their unhallowed hoofs on the wallpaper. We especially desire to protect the weak, viz., "Elnora."
Dear "Smad,"—
Allow me to raise again in your columns that old bone of contention—that educationist's nightmare— the English course. I approach this subject with due respect for the intellect of the V.U.C. student, who is not afraid of mental effort when it is necessary ; and for the superior wisdom of those who, in some distant age, framed the syllabus in English.
For all this, I cannot help asking; "Why the need for such large and unpalatable doses of Anglo-Saxon?" Why this browsing over Old English texts, when we should be spending our precious time on lines of study, which, though urgently required, are completely ousted by these intruders?
For instance, there is the study of the literary period, where one is forced to limit one's knowledge to a mere skeleton of names and dates. There is the study of contemporary writers, which is completely ignored. There is, most important of all, the study of the students' own use of their mother-tongue, both in speaking and writing; a study which, again, is non-existent. All these would yield a more valuable return than studying the primitive language of a barbaric people.
After all, this purports to be a course in English, and if the authorities wish to cram it with Anglo-Saxon, why not honestly label it Anglo-Saxon, instead of inducing in new students false hopes of the subject? Then, perhaps, this old-fashioned University of ours, in an attempt to bring itself abreast of the times, might provide an English course designed to improve the English of its students.
[We feel that "Duped" should show a little more reverence for the picturesque, beautiful and euphonius language on which his mother-tongue is based; oh, yeah!—Ed."]
Dear "Smad,"—
As an ex-student of Wikitoria and as a present student of that Faculty of a larger University where degrees are harder to come by—meaning I'm a humble wage-earner—I venture to offer these few comments on the only subject which never fails to intrigue the male student—The 'Varsity Girl.
Now, sir, while one is at 'Varsity, they probably seem all that could be desired and then some, and its not till one gets away from 'Varsity and gets a new slant on these creatures that the flaws in them become apparent. I am well aware that in the present day women are demanding "equality. So be it! But let her consider this equality. By low cunning and by playing on man's generosity women have gained a position of eminence where a man must for ever be the bread winner and the strap-hanger, must even plead on bended knees for the privilege of doing these things. And still they claim equality.
Either they think that with all this clamouring for equality they can still further blind suffering man to the state things have got into, or else they have not sufficient brains to realise that real equality would be tantamount to devotion. Tell us, you females, which is it?
The diseases to which the flesh is heir to are bad enough, but I say let 'em all come, but Lord preserve me from the 'Varsity woman.
Dear "Smad,"—
May I add a few lines in support of a letter written by "Senex" re the Library hours. Your editorial note states that the Librarian informed you that a notice was put on one of the boards, advising of the alteration of the hours to be kept during the first term vacation. Could you tell me exactly when this notice was put up? It was not on any board on the
Demonstration of rhythmic and gymnastic dances.
Thursday before the vacation, and the College closed early on Friday, so under no stretch of imagination could the Librarian think that sufficient notice was given. The Powers That Be have complained of the poor attendance of students at the Library during the vacation, but surely the fault is not with the students but with the Rulers themselves. On future occasions, when an alteration is to be made in the Library hours, a notice displayed on the Library notice-board some days before would at least give the students a chance to avail themselves of the facility.
[This letter was submitted to the Librarian, who stated that she had nothing further to say.—Ed."|
Dear "Smad,"—
In the past the V.U.C. Dramatic Club has been more fortunate in its choice of plays than it has been in choosing "The Ship" for production at such a time as this. No matter how well acted, such a play could not be widely popular from the point of view of entertainment, and so would not draw as large an audience as would probably have been the case had the choice been happier.
Even if there is great difficulty in procuring stage property, there are many plays with no greater difficulty in staging, that afford more relaxation and create a happier atmosphere. Among many, other plays of St. John Ervine's might be suggested. "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary," or "The First Mrs. Fraser." The Ship" is depressing. Why not help to alleviate the general "sorry-for-ourselves" atmosphere instead of augmenting it?
If a comedy or farce is produced it does not lose greatly by being acted by inexperienced or amateur actors—but a drama has its atmosphere of strain and suspense added to and exaggerated so that one loses the pleasure one expects from an evening's entertainment. In other words, depressing plays become more depressing very often when produced by amateurs.
"Hedda Gabler" is, I think, even more depressing than "The Ship," requiring also more masterful and efficient treatment, as it is difficult to interpret convincingly. Coming so soon after the last production, it seems an unwise choice—as the action and "themes" are not unlike. Suicide: drowning; tragedy, is too near the life of reality for us to wish to see it duplicated upon the stage. If it is not too late, I would like to suggest a choice of something more cheerful and light.
The Dramatic Club has a large and very enthusiastic following at 'Varsity. Students of all ages, types and capabilities are keen, so that I think the difficulty of casting is exaggerated. The difficulty lies in the fact, perhaps, that the choosing of the cast is in the hands of a few persons who seem to be very conservative in that they keep the "parts" within their own circle. Among the students interested, men especially, there may be found actors of greater talent and versatility than those we see so often on the Dramatic Club stage.
It is very likely that the excellent reputation that the Club has, owing to its past productions, will suffer a serious decline as a consequence of "putting on" plays that are not suitable for amateur production, or plays that are not suitable for production at such a period.
Your correspondent has indulged in a criticism (?) of The Dramatic Club in general, which reminds one very much of those following on the production of "The Lucky One." Objections to the choice of play, no matter what play is produced, have been put forward by some ardent spirit every year since the Club first presented a town production. I feel that your correspondent is merely following in the well-worn tradition of the 'Varsity rather than expressing any actual criticism. The choice or plays has ranged from light comedy, "The Young Idea," to tragicomedy, "The Dark Angel" and the thriller, "Rope." Surely nobody could accuse the Club of not having given the public plenty of variety in the choice of plays. In regard to the point raised that another type of play would have afforded more relaxation and created a happier atmosphere. I would point out that many people revel in tragedy.
It has been explained by your correspondent for the benefit of the uninformed that light comedy and farce do not lose greatly by being acted by inexperienced or amateur actors. It is a recognised fact in the world of the theatre that they are far better left to professionals, and good ones at that.
I would remind your correspondent that, in regard to "Hedda Gabler," which, by the way, is a. very good play, the old maxim applies, "a play worth doing at all is worth doing badly." The Dramatic Club has been very tardy in recognising the fact that there are some classical dramatists, and this year the Club's Committee has attempted to give one of the greatest of them, Ibsen, long overdue recognition.
I learn that the Club has a large and enthusiastic following in the 'Varsity, and regret I did not have the opportunity of welcoming them at the presentation of "The Ship." Possibly the mere fact that the chosen play was a tragedy kept them away; they were afraid that the ardour of their optimism might be damped.
The objection to the casting of the play is not valid. For each production, many students are tried, and in almost every case no student who has taken part in the first three-act production, has a part in the second. I would also remind your readers that there are still four one-act plays which have to be cast, and the Club would welcome new talent. In the readings, too, large numbers of students have opportunities of showing their capabilities.
In conclusion, I would say that many people have criticised the Dramatic Club on generalities, but few have attempted to assist it in putting into force concrete suggestions. The Club thanks you for your interest, and is happy to welcome one more interested student: to its large end enthusiastic following.
Snappy girls in snappy ballets.
The Senior A has improved considerably of late, and next year should be a formidable fifteen. There are plenty of young and promising players in the side, and a year's experience in the first grade should do them a world of good. The team has a strong three-quarter line and a good pack of forwards, ably led by Roy Diederich.
The Senior B Team has not had the best of luck, but a good win against Porirua shows that they have the ability there. Injuries to the side have tended to weaken it considerably.
The Junior A Team has also not had the best of luck with them in all this season's games. A good side, alterations in the fifteen through injuries to higher teams have caused several of the team's losses. Nevertheless they have been a hard team to heat invariably, as is shown by their games against Athletic and Poneke. The side has one of the keenest forward packs fielded by a Junior Varsity team, and have more than held their own with opposing packs. The backs have been at times brilliant, and at times the reverse. Wild, second five-eighths, has shown real football ability, and should go far; whilst Blandford, at full-back, has played some good games. Gully and Josephson, wings, have been solid, whilst Paetz, centre, has a good turn of speed, though he is rather inclined to pass before he has fully drawn his man. Carey, half, is good. The goal-kicking of Osborn has been of real use to the side.
It would be unfair to single out any of the forwards for individual praise.
The Junior B Team has lost more games than it has won, but is performing quite creditably. More attention to training would make this a presentable side.
The Third Team is not, however showing good form. Perhaps a single team in the Third B. Competition is the solution.
The Fourth A Team is doing well. This is a good side again—a fact which augurs well for the club. Watt, wing for this team, is a distinct senior prospect.
The Fourth B Team also has had several wins, and can also be satisfied with their showing.
A Team from all grades of promising young players is being sent up to Te Aute College. A good side has been selected.
* * * *
Exploration is popular with the harriers. At the invitation of the Brooklyn Club we roamed over eleven miles of Karori county to the summit of Mt. Misery. Late in May Mrs. Dixon invited us to run from her residence in Kelburn; a pleasant run was closed with an afternoon tea that all commended in a very practical way. On another occasion we vied with Olympic on a trail laid between Wadestown and Khandallah. At Island Bay we were the guests of Mrs. Shorland, who gave us a treat in true harrier style; after a greasy trail, her generous afternoon tea was indeed a welcome sight. From Northland along the Tinakori Hills and through Wilton's Bush the packs scampered with enthusiasm. The last run in July was at Mellings, from the home of Mrs. Cairns; a trail laid over flat but varied country resulted in justice to the excellent "tuck-in" awaiting our return.
Our most enterprising Club event to date was the Novice Race at Worser Bay, won by Ken Sheard, with F. B. Shorland second, followed by H. W. Thompson. For this event Mr. Dixon donated a wallet. With older clubs there are cups and shields for annual competition, thus promoting a spirit of rivalry between members, leading to a high standard of training and fitness. Up to the present, however, we have no such enticements to develop any latent qualities the Club may possess, and we must therefore rely upon individual energy to attain that peak of perfection so necessary for inter-club events.
At the time of going to press the club's championships are but a week off; enthusiastic members are striving to attain a form that will enable them to compete with credit in inter-club events. The Dome Cup saw our entrance into that arena, and while success was by no means ours, our first man, D. Cairns, was well up the list; every 'Varsity man finished. Yes, we raised a round of applause. Club enthusiasm is consolidating, and a highly successful season is now assured.
After its success in the Inter-University Tournament, the Senior Team was expected to brighten up in the Grade Competitions and win a few games. Hopes have not been realised, however, although the team has participated in two drawn games since the Tournament. The Senior B (A) Team still retains its position at the top of the ladder for that Grade, although the second team is dangerously close. Some good fast open hockey resulted when the Senior B (A) Team met the Senior B (B) Team in the second round of the Competitions. Both teams played their best hockey, and both were out to win from the bully-off. Near the end of what promised to be a drawn game, the A's came to light with two goals, finally winning by 4 goals to 2.
A social fuction of importance took place on the 9th July at Barrett's Hotel, when "Charlie" Bollard was the guest of honour at a congratulatory dinner. After the guest had been duly toasted and the Chairman, George Simpson, had emptied several bottles and told a few interesting (?) stories, the function was brought to a cheerful conclusion by the singing of popular songs. "Charlie" Bollard left for Australia
Congratulations are extended to L. S. Free and F. H. Stewart, who have been Selected for a Wellington team which tours the northern provinces on 8th August.
Seldom in tramping annals has any party been rewarded with such a twenty-four hours as was the prize of those 'Varsity members who journeyed recently to Field Hut and Mt Hector. A week-end of cloudless calm that made sleep a drugged sottishness breaking the imperative call for action. For the early party a crisp, moonlit dash up to West Peak, flanked by the flickering lights of Wellington and the Manawatu and the snow-clad Tararuas from Dun das in the north to the slopes of Hector.
One felt in the frosty atmosphere the seldom experienced genuine vitality of movement over the crunching crystal. Next morning, a leisurely climb with the sun over the corrugated roll of haze that temporarily veiled the lowlands to a view that wheeled north from the Spensers to Ruapehu. Last, but not least, the blue silhouetted cone of Egmont seen against the sunset from the Forks Road.
Those intending to start on the Winter Crossing should by now be practically oblivious to the diseo-forts of rain, cold and glazed Beehives, but even at this late hour we would point out the possibilities of Kelburn Park and the Wireless Hill.
Recuperate from the effects of your success or forget your disappointments in the Dress Circle by a trip to the Butterfly on August 21st., 10.30 boat to Rona Bay.
August 27-28th., Orongorongos again! Six-hour round trip on Sunday morning from hut through Rangiora and back, or to the main range and then down to Tapopoko stream and the Mnkamuka. Return to camp via. South Matthew's Saddle. Telephone names to A. G. Bagnall. 50-936.
Sept. 3rd.-4th—Unique opportunity to visit Northern Tararuas under winter conditions. Car to Levin Pipe Bridge and climb to Waiopehu. Those affectea with insomnia may visit the new Dora Hut. Notify leader. Miss M. Huggins, in good time to facilitate transport.
September 17th. Attention! Combined Clubs" trip. Any person who has in any manner of ecstatic enlightment, considered, however remotely, the possibility that he or she may tramp, is requested to come. This year we want to win both the snarler consumption championship and the race for longest time up or down Kapakapanui. Camp in the vernal voluptuousness of bucolic plenty. 100 yards from a metalled road. Watch the notice-board for further details.—N.B.: You are earnestly requested to attend.
The Senior A Team completed the first round two points (one loss) behind the East College Old Girls' Team, but in the second round the East College Team beat us again. We have thus lost any chance of being champions, as East College Old Girls "have an unbeaten record. We should, however, be runners-up. Our score against East College Old Girls was 20—13.
The Senior B Team has been doing quite well, and is about fourth in their grade.
The Fourth Grade Team nearly won a match recently, the score being 6—4 against them. As usually a full team is not fielded, they do not meet with any success.
Cooper. Fourth A player, has emulated the feats of Ramson, Fuller and Co., and has, with the aid of his valuable boot, scored 95 points this season for his side. With several games to go, this young player should have no difficulty in reaching the century. Good luck, sir!
Dear "Smad,"—
I have neither desire no intention of entering into a protracted argument with Mr. East as to the present methods of running the Haeremai Club. I regret that I am not in a position to advise him of the means by which pies were once heated, but I know that they were. Perhaps an inquiry by the Committee from erstwhile cooks might be of use. Apart from this, however, there still remains the question of bow ties. This was the distinctive mark of the Club, and one the revival of which would not be unwelcome. If the Committee are not prepared to assume the characteristics of the Club, then I say don't blindly refer to them in the Club song. There is no need to endeavour to teach a new song—merely cut out the obviously inappropriate part of the present one. Enough
[Speaking of distinctive marks, we consider that the peculiar type of physiognomy particular to the Haeremai Club is in itself distinctive enough.—Ed,]
Events of interest during the coming month an? as follows:—
From 23rd. to 29th. August, the Student Christian Movement Auxiliary will hold its annual Conference at Island Bay.
During the term holidays the Student Movement will hold its usual Soiree, which social evening all students are cordially invited to attend.
The Haeremai Club's Annual Fancy Dress Dress was held last Saturday night. A really bright dance, the inclement weather must have kept numbers away. The fancy costumes were original and good. We liked particularly the Sporting Parson and the Hard Up Orchestra.
Have you ever heard the "Pipes of Pan"?
The Fourth Annual General Meeting of the V.U.C. Law Faculty Club was held on the
The Club's activities for the year opened with a "Mock Trial of Fact," arranged by J. H. B. Schole field. The thanks of the Club are due to Mr. W. H. Cunningham, who so willingly and so ably acted as "Judge" for the occasion, and further to the various members of the Club who took an active part in the proceedings. The Trial was held in the Gymnasium on the 4th July, in the presence of an "audience" of about one hundred. The following was the "cast" for the evening:—
Judge: Mr. W. H. Cunningham.Registrar: Mr. G. Croesley.Court Crier: Mr. J. H. B. Scholefield.Accused: Mr. M. Willis.Counsel: Prosecution — Messrs O'Brien and Charters. Defence — Messrs Fabian and Struthers.Witnesses: Messrs Fitzgerald, Jackson, McNaught, Naylor, Chadwick, Kirkealdie, Scott, Kennard, Cain, Birks, Kent, Winkel, and Arcus.Police: Messrs Sainsbury, F. G. and H. Williams.
The following was the jury: Misses D. Souter, G. A. Gallagher. P. Spence-Sales and K. Muir; Messrs Buist, Kemp, Phillips (foreman), Raskin, Marshall, White, Wilson, and Heenan.
After a somewhat protracted hearing the jury, after a short retirement, found the prisoner "Not Guilty," and he was allowed to go free, much to his own relief, and also to the relief of the various members of the "Court" on whom the proceedings had by this time begun to pall.
On the 20th July, the Club was honoured by a talk by G. G. G. Watson, Esq., the President of the Wellington District Law Society, who spoke generally on the future of the profession. The attendance was disappointing, but those who were present heard an extremely interesting talk, and one from which it is hoped they will profit in the future.
It is proposed that the Annual Law Ball should be held in the final week of the forthcoming Vacation. Last year's Ball was an unqualified success, but it is hoped that this year's will be even better. Arrangements have not yet been, completed, but Students are advised to watch the Notice Boards for further announcements. A full muster of both Students and Practitioners is anticipated.
The second address arranged by the Commerce Society will be given in Room A1 on Thursday, 11th August, at 8 p.m., when Mr. W. E. Pottinger will discourse on the subject of the marketing problems of the Dairy Industry. Mr. Pottinger is an official of the Dairy Export Control Board, and able to speak with authority on the subject. He proposes in the course of his remarks to deal with the expectations of the New Zealand dairy exporters from Ottawa.
The next Dramatic Club production will be presented on the 12th and 13th August in the College Hall, and the chosen play is "Hedda Gabler," by Ibsen. In forming its policy for this year the Club's Committee decided to produce at least one play by a nineteenth century dramatist, and the choice fell on Ibsen. Through unforseen circumstances the production of "The Ship" had to be postponed a month, bringing it rather near the presentation of "Hedda Gabler." However, the production of the play was not held up very much. An excellent cast has been assembled, including Miss H. Archer as Hedda, Mr. B. Chadwick as Judge Brack Mr. D. Banks as Tossman, and Miss D. Tossman as Mrs. Elusted. The play is being produced by Dr. I. Henning and Mr. Norman Hannah. Be sure and bring your friends along to see this great play.
This is your own paper. We want you all to contribute to it. Don't leave all the work to a few industrious ones and the editorial staff. If you have any ideas, please send them along. Twenty bright pars from twenty different contributors are infinitely better than a one column story.
The V.U.C. Chess Club was launched in
First Saturday of next term.
The Mathematical and Physical Society has so far enjoyed a very successful year, and an extremely varied series of papers has been presented. The actual papers were:—
The Society is more than ever indebted to Mrs. Florance and Mrs Sommerville for providing those delectable suppers which are an extremely popular feature of the Society's evenings.
Two innovations have been introduced this year. First, a series of visits has been arranged. The Society's sincere thanks are due to the Union Steamship Company for permission to visit the T.E.V. "Rangatira," Messrs Filmcraft Ltd., for their courtesy in demonstrating the recording and processing of films, the Railway Department for permission for the lecture on "Signalling," and a visit to the Woburn Shops and to the "Evening Post," the Dominion Analyst and the Dominion Astronomer.
The demonstrations arranged with the lectures by Mr. Gentry, of the Post and Telegraph Laboratory, and Mr. Graydon, of Messrs Watson and Sons, were of particular interest, the first being the actual setting up and working of the most modern form of telegraph apparatus, and the second a surgical diathermy plant which to the delight of all present performed very interestingly on a piece of steak and an egg. The Society is grateful to the Post and Telegraph Department and Messrs Watson and Sons for permitting these lectures and thus enabling mathematics and physics students to gain a truer perspective of the realms of their subjects.
The second feaure which has been introduced this year is the devotion of one evening, August 9th, to an account of the research work being carried out this year in the Physics Department. The meeting will be held in the advanced laboratory, and the actual apparatus will be demonstrated by the students concerned.
Work of relieving distressed families has been continued as far as the funds will permit, but there has been: a great difficulty in coping with the demand. Many students are assisting with knitting squares for blankets, but all students, both members of the Movement and others, are especially asked to give their support, either by service or by financial assistance, and. in regard to the latter, the smallest donations of 1d. or 2d. per week would greatly assist in maintaining a regular supply of funds with which to purchase food and fuel for the three necessitous families which are under our personal supervision.
An item of interest during the last month was the wedding which took place at the Regent Square Presbyterian Church. London, of the Rev. Ian Fraser, and Miss Alexa Stewart, both graduates of Victoria University College, and members of the Student Christian Movement.
During the past month there have been a series of interesting activities amongst the students in the Student Christian Movement.
On the 3rd. July, the day of prayer was observed at. the Kelburn Presbyterian Church, where the Rev. J. Hubbard, Chairman of the Wellington District Council, conducted Communion at 10 a.m. and Evening Service at 7 p.m. Despite the very wintry conditions which prevailed, there was a good muster of students and past students. The Rev. H. W. Newell, Chairman of the National Executive, spoke at the tea, which was held preceding the Evening Service, on the "World Student Christian Federation."
On the 12th July, a special meeting was arranged at which Mrs. W. Ponsford, a graduate of Victoria University College, and now resident in England, spoke upon the "Oxford Group Movement," a Movement which has played a great part in the lives of students in England in recent years.
A concert party was taken to the Akatarawa Men's Relief Camp on the 16th July, when a programme of play reading and items was presented.
On the following week-end. the 23rd. and 24th. July, separate camps were held, the women's meeting at Chilton House, Island Bay, and the at Hay wards. About twenty women attends a. the Camp at Island Bay, and ten men that at Haywards. Two studies on the aims and objects of the New Zealand Student Christian Movement provided excellent material for discussion.
Patronise the firms who advertise in your magazine, and don't forget to mention "Smad."
Contributors are requested to sign all contributions and indicate if a nom-de-plume is to be used.
The date of the next issue and closing date for contributions will be published on the Notice-Board in Hall. Please watch out.
Editor: J. A. Carrad. 'Phone 43-000.
Sub-Editors: D. M. Pilcher. 'Phone 44-022.
A. Wansbrough. 'Phone 40-227.
"Spike" will be coming out very soon now, and all students are requested to write, for it.
Don't be afraid to try your hand. You don't know how good you are until you have a shot at it.
Printed at the Printing Works of Messrs White and Sons. Printers and Bookbinders. Aitken Street., for V.U.C.S.A.
Women's Gym. Club.—1/- dance.