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PRESBYTERIAN GIRLS' COLLEGE GEELONG

THE LUCERNIAN

THE LUCERNIAN The MAGAZINE of the PRESBYTERIAN GIRLS' COLLEGE CEELONG.

Co-Editors : KITTY McLENNAN, MARION PARISH. Editorial Committee : NANCY CARSTAIRS, JOYCE SMITH, MARGARET SALTER.

Eseetong : Adams Nantes, Printers, The Block

Office-Bearers =MO

The Head Mistress (Miss G. Pratt, M. A. Dip. Ed.) is the Patron of all School Clubs and Societies. PREFECTS : Kitty McLennan (Head Prefect), Gwen Morgan, Marion Parish, Margaret Salter, Marion Cameron. PROBATIONER PREFECTS : Molly Paterson, Dorothy Wilby, Lorna. Ebbott, Erva Hirst, Nancy Hamilton. FORM CAPTAINS : Form VI., Gwen Morgan. Form V., Jean Bailey. Form V.A, Dorothy • Glover. Form Remove, Clare Strong. Form IV.c, Gertrude Walter. Form IV.B, Vivian Bartlett. Form IV.A, Elsie David. Form III.B, Alison Simpson. Form III.A, Joan Price. SPORTS CAPTAIN : Gwen Morgan. VICE-CAPTAIN : Marion Cameron. SPORTS COMMITTEE : Margaret Salter, Lorna Ebbott, Erva Hirst, Alison Stewart, Nancy Carstairs, Mary Paton, Nancie Keays. HARRIS HOUSE : Captain, Gwen Morgan. Vice-Captain, Erva Hirst. A RDENS HOUSE : Captain, Alison Stewart. Vice-Captain, Nancy Carstairs. ROSLYN HOUSE : Captain, Lorna Ebbott. Vice-Captain, Mary Paton. LAWSON HOUSE : Captain, Margaret Salter. Vice-Captain, Nancie Keays. LIBRARIAN : Mollie Paterson. LIBRARY COMMITTEE : Dorothy Wilby, Nancy Carstairs, Joyce Smith, Muriel Anderson, Gertrude McDowall. MUSEUM CURATORS : Marianne Pettitt, Dorothy Wilby. CHRISTIAN UNION : President, Margaret Salter. Vice-President, Marion Cameron. Recol ding Secretary, Lorna Ebbott. Corresponding Secretary, Kitty McLennan. Treasurer, Alison Stewart.

Contents. ...

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Foreword

Page 4

Editorial 6

First Assembly School News

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Form Notes House Notes

7 11

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Boarders' Notes

Day Girls' Notes

General Notes Morongo Thrilled

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Speech Day Prize List, 1927

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13 18

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Examination Successes

New Pupils .

Prize Essays

,..

Sports Notes

Parents' and Friends' Association

School Council Notes

Varsity Notes

.,.

,,.

Gifts

,.a

,..

...

Original Contributions

In Memory of Margaret Shannon

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Old Girls' Section , Notices

55 55

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oreworb. Dear Girls,— How excellent is your School Magazine ! I congratulate the students on such a fine possession. 'Tis good to have a record of school activities — study, recreation, hobbies. An agency for the expression of the School soul, spirit, tradition, is essential to the fullHow inspiring this can be ! Our ness of school life. aim must be to make school life rich and complete in every aspect ; to make school days "happy" days and "jolly days"—days given up to serious endeavours and to joyous work and play ; days, the remembrance of which will be an abiding happiness through life. During our school days individual work can be effectively conjoined with team effort. Thus does a bright, happy, unselfish girlhood blossom into a gracious, noble and serviceable womanhood. The Magazine will interpret the School spirit, add the "joy of remembrance" to the incidents recorded, and express the varying emotions of the year's experiences. No School is complete without its Magazine. May good fortune attend all the efforts made in its interest. Yours sincerely, H. S. W. LAWSON.

Zhe Lucernian L.-

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Vol 1

1,7. PAP. t17

HEN we realize that our school life is almost finished, and that the first chapter in the book of our lives is coming to a close, we look back upon the years that are passed. When a girl has belonged to a society or a community for many years, and has shared its growth and gradual development, she naturally feels as though she has become a part of it, and as though its welfare and honour are her personal concern. The ideal of a Public School is to develop this spirit of loyalty and "oneness." If a girl spends only one year at a school, it is impossible for her to leave a lasting impression upon the life of the school, or to appreciate fully and derive benefit from its spirit. It is It is only natural that one who comes and goes within a few months should look upon her life at that particular school as something passing and vague as the years go by. After all, one year in a person's life sees very little change.

Character is only moulded gradually. As we look back, the years seem like a vast plain, and we are able to pick out the big outlines which were so hazy and indistinct when we passed them. Now they lie clearly revealed. Or we may feel as though we have reached the first low peak in a range of mountains. When we were very young, that peak towered above us, and was the very loftiest and most insurmountable thing in the world. The years seemed to be passing so slowly, but now we feel as though they have not dragged, but flown. If it were not that the future held such enticing prospects before us, we should like to retrace our footsteps through the years, and live them over again. As far as knowledge is concerned, we have only touched on the fringe. We have learnt one great lesson, and that is of our own vast ignorance. Life is an enormous stone, at which we can only hope to chip. But let us

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chip away as many precious pieces as we can, though we only leave a small mark on the hard surface. John Oxenham in his lines on "Work" says— Some toil for love, and some for simple greed. Some reap a harvest past their utmost need. More in their less find truer happiness, And all in work relief from bitterness.

If ours is the less that brings happiness to others and to ourselves, we shall have fulfilled at least a part of our work in the world. At school, our minds have been trained to look for and receive knowledge, and we are equipped in some way for the great battle of Life. We are not experienced, but a foundation for the future is already laid.

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First Assembly, 1928. The School re-assembled on February 16th, after the Christmas vacation, and the girls gathered in the Assembly Hall to begin the new year. As well as being the usual re-union ,at the beginning of the year, this service was also a memorial to Margaret Shannon. Miss Pratt welcomed all new pupils, and spoke to us of the work and play of the coming year, urging every girl to do her very best at both. Then Miss Pratt spoke of the death of Margaret Shannon. Margaret had been a boarder at school for several years, and we all loved her for her quiet cheerfulness and her readiness to help. Many of the girls had not heard of Margaret's death, and this sad announcement cast a shadow over a gathering which would otherwise have been a very happy one.

Rev. A. Simms, our new School Chaplain, was then introduced by Miss Pratt. We were very glad to welcome Mr. Simms, and we enjoyed his interesting address very much. A new cup, presented by Senator Guthrie, as a lasting reminder of the work done for the school by our former Chaplain, Rev. Charles Neville, was then shown to us by Miss Pratt. The cup, which is to be known as "The Charles Neville Cup," for inter-house sport, was then presented to the Captain of Harris House—Harris being the leading House for 1927. The Assembly was closed by the singing of the School song, followed by the National Anthem.

School News. On August 4th, the Principal and Prefects were hostesses at a dance held at Mot ongo. The Assembly Hall, decorated in School colours, was used for dancing, and rooms in the school building were Those who did not used as lounges. dance played bridge. During the even-

ing Miss Pratt and Mrs. Batten, President of the Old Collegians' Association, were presented with flowers trom the Prefects. The orchestra and supper were provided by the Old Collegians, to whom much of the success of the evening was due.

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The boarders were very much interested in a Lantern Lecture given by Mr. McPhillimy one evening during the first term. The lecture was on the British Isles and Norwegian Fiords. During the year we have enjoyed a series of concerts arranged by Miss Gladys McDowall. The Prefects and Senior Boarders were the guests of the Prefects of Geelong College at a most enjoyable dance in the Norman Morrison Hall. Those who went to the Geelong College dramatic performance enjoyed "Vice Versa" and the "Water Babies" very much. During second term, Miss Pratt had the misfortune to sprain her ankle. We are very glad to see her quite well again. Miss Gilbert has also been ill, and we were delighted to see her back again at the beginning of third term. Miss Duncan of the Y.W.C.A. in Japan, "gave us a Lantern Lecture early in the The slides which Miss Duncan year. showed us were very beautiful, and her talk was most interesting. Congratulations to the Hermitage Dramatic Class on their splendid performance of 'The Scarlet Pimpernel." Another concert which we enjoyed this year was that given by Mrs. Marsden,

who sang us a cycle of Schumann's songs, and some of A. A. Milne's songs from "Now We Are Six." A t an evening arranged by the Old Collegians' Association, Mr. Anderson gave_ a most interesting talk on Oriental Art. The Old Collegians afterwards entertained the gathering at supper. Miss Pratt and the House Prefects were present at a service at St. Giles Church, at which Dr. Black, of Edinburgh, preached the sermon. Dr. Black spoke of the true value of the Christian religion, and illustrated his talk by proving his remarks in the form of an equation. Those who heard Dr. Black could not but feel how fortunate they were in hearing such a brilliant preacher. On Anzac Day we held our usual Anzac Service in the morning. Mr. Simms delivered a short address on the landing at Gallipoli, the terrible hardships which our soldiers were forced to face, and their boundless courage in the face of overwhelming danger. After pointing out the wonderful heritage which they had left for us, and appealing to us to follow worthily in their footsteps, Miss Pratt then spoke a few words to us, and thanked Mr. Simms for his "inspiring address. The service ended with the singing of the Recessional, followed by the National Anthem.

Form Notes. FORM VI. By the time you read this we shall be in the throes of the Test Examinations— seventeen of us, including four who belong to the Honour (ed) Sixth. The Test Examinations, we might explain to those upon whom the shadow of them has not as yet fallen, are a form of torture devised

for our unhappiness by a governing and autocratic body. We deeply regret having to inform you that several of our members during second term were debarred from using the Library as a place of study during spare periods because they worked too hard, and did not talk enough.

THE LUCERNIAN.

Although delighted at the performance of Quality Street, our teachers were troubled because five of our number were forced to be absent from lessons duringthe fortnight preceeding the great event. We wish to congratulate the girls who helped to make the play such a success. An event that helps to relieve the monotony of the daily routine is the acting on Wednesday afternoons of scenes from Richard II. Shakespeare certainly would he delighted at the original costumes, prototypes of those of Richard's day. We are indebted to Mr. Ebbott for his gift of twelve capacious lockers to our form room, and we assure him that we make the best possible use of them by storing in them the books we do not 1pse. (One who is interested suggests that possibly if you stored your books in them before you lost them, such a qualification would not be necessary ; also one at least of your teachers would become blythe and serene once more). FORM V. A GOOD MORNING'S WORK. Scene.—A long, white-walled room, six windows R., with ledge on which stand various Botany experiments, vases and Blackboard upbottles. Entrance L. stage. A few pictures such as Swiss Alps and Lord Kitchener adorn the walls. Twenty-nine girls are standing in groups talking loudly. ACT I. A teacher enters suddenly, the girls spring to their places, for her approach is silent. She carries in one hand a jar apparently containing alcohol, and a bouquet of capeweed in the other, Mistress.—"Each girl will please see that she obtains a specimen. Please do not cat them. I will want them again. Yes?" (as a hand shoots up). Girl.—"Please, Miss—, does Cryptostemma Calendulacea belong to N.O. Leptospermeae or Goodeniaceae?"

Mistress.—To N.O. Compositae. Now, girls, we are going to prove that flowers go on flowering even with red ink in their veins." (Sighs from class. The lesson proceeds a few minutes) then-Mistress.—"I shall draw a diagram of this cross-section on the board. Do not look at the one in the book. If it is different, it is wrong. The vascular bundles are like this." (And so on, until the bell rings). A.CT II. Second Mistress.—"Class, sit ! I want to talk to you about your• papers. Some were very good, other were . . . . (looks out of window seeking a suitable word) well . . . . uninspiring. Not one of you seems to have any idea of analysis. Some even put an object after the verb 'to be.' What is the rule?" Class (wearily as though tired of repeating the same thing so often). "Verb `to be' never takes an object." Mistress.—"Yes. Now take out your . . . er . . . West's Grammar, (groans from entire class) without any comments, please. (Without raising her eyes) Pauline stop talking." (Looks up, sees Pauline is not in the room, and hastily alters it to Rosaleen and Nance. After a short time, the bell rings, and girls hasten out to lay in supplies of sweets from the tuckshop). ACT III. Mistress. "Take out 'Le Petit Chose,' girls. We will go on with our translation." Mary. "Please, Miss, what does `la puce' mean?" Mistress.—"It probably means 'maiden,' Mary. Joan of Arc is often referred to as 'la pucelle,' you know." Indignant voice from behind a large dictionary.—"It says here that it means `flea' !" (A lively discussion follows, and the translation is continued until the bell tolls.

THE LUCERNIAN.

ACT IV. Mistress (entering room). "Paper on the floor, Dorothy. }can, your desk doi...sn't shut properly. See that you pack your books again after school. Now, we were taking America, weren't we? Gwen, move those bottles, and put those dead flowers in the basket. Nance, come and point out the peninsulars. Where is Labrador ? (Nance points to Florida with her ruler). Nance McClure, you bad little girl, didn't you learn your homework ?" Nance.—"Yes, but I don't know the positions well." Mistress (weakly).—"Didn't you have an atlas open in front of you?" (Recovering, she proceeds with the build of America). Some minutes later— Mistress.—"Now, I will take your marks for those maps." (Opens desk, and for the next ten minutes is concealed in a cloud of papers, pencils, books and rubbish. The mark-book is at last found in th,_! bottom layer, and the marks are. entered. Bell rings). ACT V. (Climax). DINNER ! FORM V.A. It is now nearly the end of the second term., and we must sit down and write Form Notes once more. There are twenty members in our form this year, and o.ur Form Captain is s untiring in her efforts to quiet our unruly girls.

We have had three form Mistresses during the year, and we are very glad to welcome Miss Stewart back again. On Shakespeare Day we acted a scene out of our play, "The Merchant of Venice." The costumes were original and picturesque. At the Swimming Sports we gained the second place in the inter-form race. We should like to congratulate our Form Cap-

tain on her success in winning the Junior Championship. To our relief, exams arc ovei , and we rejoice at the coming of the term holidays. REMOVE. At the beginning of the year we all wished that our form room could be upstairs. Our wish was granted, but sometimes now we regret it, for often after a tennis strenuous game of basket-hall we do not feel like mounting a long row of stairs. However, as you may see in our little rhyme below, we have a wonderful view stretched before us, and one which we should not have if we were dow nstairs. We are looking forward to seeing the new uniform, which we are to have next term. Grey spun silk, and grey hats %%ill he a change from our usual navy blue. Remove is our form, and a good one too, With twenty-seven girls, and most of them new. From our windows we command a wonderful view Of Geelong, the Bay, and the skyline blue. The girls of the form, tall, fat, or thin, Have hair, bobbed or shingled according to whim; But one thing they all can join heartily in Is helping and cheering Remove form to win.

FORM IV.C. Hullo ! Form Notes again ! Form IV.C. has grown much larger since last year, and we have a large, airy form room upstairs, with seven windows. The tidiness shield, which was won by IV.C. last year, hangs on our wall, and we mean to try and keep it there next year, too. Our form is arranged so that the girls belonging to each house sit together in rows. . Each house has its captain, and points are given for work and conduct. As our form is so large, we have two form captains, and are very glad to have Miss Cooper as our form mistress.

THE LUCERNIAN.

We were very sorry indeed when Marie room with two other forms, and so we Robertson became ill in second term. She try to work very quietly. has gone to N.S.W. to convalesce, and we Some of us helped in the Dramatic this hope that she will soon be strong enough term, and enjoyed it very much. to come back. We enjoy our geography lessons, and we are each working a collection of geoFORM IV.B. graphy pictures. We played a scene If you look into IV.B. form room, you abcut Eskimo land one day in school. At French lessons we have a little bed will see fifteen girls, all working hard. Our form mistress is Miss McKay, and with a doll in it, and we learn tile names of all the articles on the bed. our form captain is Vivian Bartlett. Our form mistress is Miss Wright, and At the beginning of the term, we welcomed four new girls. We are working our form captain is Alison Simson. We wish you all a very happy holiday. very hard to win the tidiness shield. Our form motto is, 'Where there's a FORM M.A. will, there's a way," and our form colours are purple and gold. Do you know who we are ? Most of the big girls call us the "little 3 a's." Miss F is for form, we'll call it IV.B. Wright is our form mistress, and Joan O is for order ; here it always will be. Price our captain. R is for rules, we never neglect. Our next work in geography is to make M is for mistress, we love and respect. a little stage out of a box, and then we F is for first, when we're in the field. will make a desert scene. You see, we O is for our—let's hope it's the shield. are trying to make all the different things U is for untidiness—none of it here. that are found in Egypt. R is for record, the best for the year. Quite a number of our girls were in the B. is for better, as well as for best. IV.B. will be there, when it comes to school dramatic performance this year. We. had to dance and sing, and Joan Holzthe test. grefe made a splendid little Arthur. FORM IV.A. We are a very happy form—one of the happiest in the school. We occupy a big room with the little girls of M.A. and III.B. Our form captain is Elsie David, and Miss Wright is our form mistress. Our school play was very nice ; some of the IV.A. girls were in it. We act a little French play, called "The Obstinate One," during our French lessons. There is a shield given for the tidiest room, and we are trying to get it for IV.A. this year. FORM III.B. We are six happy little girls, and like being at school very much. We share a

KINDERGARTEN NOTES. There have been several changes at Kindergarten this year, but now, at the beginning of the third term, we still have twenty-five girls, and we welcome the new little people. The Old Girls' Association has helped to make our room brighter by giving us a new floor, curtains, and pictures. We are also very grateful to Dr. McPhee for his donation of money, with which we have bought several books and pictures. We now have a sand-heap in the playground, too. We all went to the Annual School Con-

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cert, and played three games. We enjoyed the part of the concert giv en by the big girls, especially when the lion came on to the stage. Christmas Tree time is nearly here. We are wondering if Santa Claus will be able to come in his aeroplane again; or, per-

haps, we will be having our party at some time when he cannot fly to us. Anyway, we hope he will visit us, and so make our Christmas Tree this year as happy as the last. All good wishes to everyone from The Kindergarten.

House Notes. ROSLYN HOUSE. Last year we had to part with both our captain and vice-captain, and, during this year, several of our senior girls have left us ; so, Juniors, be ready to fill their places. We welcome Miss Cooper as our new House mistress, and hope that she may always enjoy her connection with the House. We congratulate Harris on. winning the Baseball and Basket-ball Shields, and congratulate Ardens on winning the Swimming Shield. The House takes this opportunity of thanking those girls who won races at the Swimming Sports. This year we have no shields in our possession, but the tennis matches still have to be played, and we ask all our girls to practice so that Roslyn may have one cup for 1929. But while we are working hard at our games, we must not forget to work hard in the school-room as well, because when we leave school it will be work rather than sport that will help.us through life. Capt. L.A.E.

ARDENS HOUSE. It was unfortunate that we had to say good-bye to both our captain and vicecaptain at the end of last year, but we are trying our best to follow in their footsteps. We take this opportunity of welcoming Miss Spotswood as our House Mistress. To Harris House we extend our congratu-

lations for winning both the Baseball and Basket-ball Shields, also for gaining first place in the flag races of first and second terms. We also wish to congratulate one of our own members, Jean Griffiths, who carried off both the School and the Ardens Charripionships at the Swimming Sports. We are looking forward to third term, and are hoping to do something more for our House, both in work and in sport. Capt. A.B.S. HARRIS HOUSE. The Swimming Sports were the first Inter-House Sports for the year, and we congratulate Ardens on being the Champion House for swimming, also Roslyn, which gained the Shield for Work and Basket-ball, and the Tennis Cup last year. We also take this opportunity to congratulate Dorothy Glover, who won the Junior School Swimming Championship, and all the other girls who supported their House so well. We are pleased to report that we were unbeaten at Baseball in first term, and gained the highest number of points for work and sport. During second term all Inter-House Basket-ball matches were played off, and Harris will have the honour of holding the Shield for the year 1929. Capt. G.I.M.

THE LUC1RNIAN.

LAWSON HOUSE. As the Inter-House Basket-ball matches have just been finished, the first thing we think of is to congratulate Harris on winning the Shield, and also on their successes of first term. The Swimming Sports, held early in th year, were most enjoyable both to competitors and visitors. The weather was warm and dull,—an ideal day for swimming. Ardens came first, and we congratulate the girls of that House on their fine performance.. Although we

were encouraged by a telegram from Mr. Lawson, we only succeeded in coming third. The Flag Races 'were held as usual at the end of the term. Lawson came second, with Harris first. To create a more enthusiastic House spirit in the lower forms, Miss Cooper has had House charts put up, and the girls try to gain as many points as possible for their House. Capt. M.W.S.

BOARDERS. SUNDAY MORNING.

Boarders' Notes. This year has been so busy that it is hard to remember all that we have done. During the first term the most exciting event was the Inter-House Swimming Sports, when the boarders' team did better than it has ever done before—the daygirls winning by a mere inch or so. But

we had our revenge when we beat them in second term Flag Races. We were very grateful to Mr. McPhillimy for his interesting lecture on the British Isles and Scandinavia, illustrated with lantern slides ; also to Miss Duncan, who gave an illustrated lecture on mission

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work in Japan, a most interesting subject. Second term was the most eventful. There always seemed to be something to look forward to. Early in the term some of the seniors were invited to a dance in the Norman Morrison Hall, while the remainder went to the performance given by the Amateur Dramatic Club of 'The Happy Ending." Another night, when the prefects went to hear Dr. Black, the famous Edinburgh preacher, Mr. Anderson gave us a most interesting talk on Oriental Art, and showed us rare specimens of cloisonné, china-painting and lacquer work.

The dance given by Miss Pratt and the Prefects was, as usual, a great success, as also were the three school dramatic entertainments—Geelong College, the Hermitage, and our own. There has been great rivalry between the cubicles and the dormitories, and the dormitories proved themselves superior at both basket-ball and baseball. Boarders' evenings also have added to the enjoyment during the year. Those of us who look forward to the dismal prospect of examinations at the end of the year feel now that work and not enjoyment must claim our superfluous energy.

Day Girls' 'This year, as in all previous years, the Day Girls are superior to the boarders in number and person. Without the aforesaid Day Girls, the school would be a "shallow mockery," in short, "a snare and a delusion." The Day Girls are delighted with the new uniform, and visions of grey-legged girls, trim and tidy, are seen floating up the school drive. lust quietly, we really form the intellectual portion of the school. Visible proof is seen in the numerous school books which overflow from their industrious owners' arms, and bestow themselves in the long-suffering cloak room.

otes.

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It is certainly very queer that the Day Girls always carry off the running and swimming cups. We are fore( d to believe that the boarders (spelt with a small "b," please) are very modest and retiring. Last year the Junior and Senior Running Championships were won by Day Girls. and at the Swimming Sports this year the champions were both Day Girls. Only what one expects, of course. Speaking without prejudice, the boarders (don't forget the small "b") are showing remarkable progress in their swimming. This year, at the Sports, we defeated them by a very small margin, merely a matter of six hundred yards or so. Boarders ! Our congratulations !

General Notes. CHRISTIAN UNION NOTES. We did not begin our Christian Union work until late in first term, and then it was decided that .all offices should be filled by girls, instead of the President and Vice-President being Mistresses.

During this term Mr. Ingram and Mr. Riddle have come to speak to and we would like to take this opportunity of thanking them, and saying how much we appreciated their addresses. Mr. Bakewell, the travelling secretary, also visited us, and spoke of the various aims of the

THE LUCERNIAN.

Union. We are greatly indebted to him by the Pass VI. They set before us the fora greater knowledge of the work done artisans of Athens preparing and acting byits branches in other parts of the State. their play of Pyramus and Thisbe. BotBible Study Circles were begun im- torn was the most outstanding character, mediately, with Miss Pratt, Miss Oman an.:1 caused much amusement, both by his and Miss Booth as leaders, and they have appearance and acting. been very interesting and helpf ul to us. The programme was concluded by a M.W.S. short scene between the stormy Katherine SHAKESPEARE DAY. and the resourceful Petruchio, taken from It is a custom with us to celebrate `The Taming of the Shrew." Shakespeare Day by performing scenes Perhaps; if Shakespeare's spirit had from his various plays. So, on the morn- been present, he would have failed to recing of April th, there was a stir through- ognize his plays, but as he himself says— "Never anything can be amiss out the school. Strange figures, arrayed When love and duty tender it." in University gowns, grey blankets from MUSEUM NOTES. the boarders' beds, piano covers from the The Museum ha s increased to such a music rooms, and brandishing carving knives from the kitchen and great rolls large extent that it had to be moved from of manuscript, scurried to and fro. The the limited space in the library to a room stage had to represent many different upstairs. Some of our friends have shown scenes, varying from the Forest of Arden great interest, and from them we have to the Court at Venice. The background, received several very valuable contriexcept for a very few stage properties, ex- butions. Among them are nuggets from the New isted only in the imagination of the audiGuinea gold-fields, a hollow stone, a copra ence. First of all, we saw Portia at her home, bluebeard in spirits, and a collection of waiting for the fortunate suitor who was native weapons. It is very interesting to to gain her hand in marriage by choosing think of them as having been used by the a particular casket. After Bassanio had aborigines. We have also received a chosen the casket and won his bride, the Nubian girl's dancing dress, a German scene changed to the Court at Venice. bank note, stones used by the natives for Shylock was there with his long beard, grinding mardoo seed into flour, a very carving knife, and scales to measure the large pine cone, some Irish peat, three pound of flesh, and remained immovable rare shells, and a wooden idol from New to the entreaties of Bassanio until the Guinea. THE SCHOOL CONCERT. young judge sent by the learned Doctor Our Annual Concert was held in the thwarted his desires. Meanwhile Antonio stood by, resigned to whatever Fate had in Commun na Feinne Hall, in Geelong, on store for him. From this we passed to July 27th. This is the first time that we Portia's garden at Belmont, and watched have held this concert in a large hall, and the quarrel about the ring between the it is gratifying to know that our display of ordinary school work was considered lovers. From the garden we were taken to the worthy by the fairly large audience which Forest of Arden, where we met the love- was present. The evening began with songs and sick Orlando and Rosalind, the lady of games by the Kindergarten children from his dreams. Perhaps the best scene, and certanly Elizabeth Street. The children were the most humorous, was that from "A trained by Miss Oman, who also accomMidsummer Night's Dream," performed parried their frolics on the piano.

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The elocution classes were in dismay when news came that Miss Haase was ill, and would probably not be able to return to school before the end of the term. However, Miss Robson came to our rescue, and the recitations given by the different elocution classes were quite as gool as usual. The unison and part-songs sung by the Junior and Senior Singing Classes, under the conductorship of Mr. John Dawson, were good, and the community singing was lively and enjoyable. A very beautiful display of Grecian poses was given by the special Physical Culture Class. The costumes worn by the girls for this display were very graceful and effective. In between the different class work there were several pianoforte solos and a duet. These were Grieg's "To the Spring," Chopin's "Butterfly Study," "Whims," by Schumann, and an Intermezzo by Brahms, and Schubert's "March Militaire." Two Morris Dances by the Senior Drill Class, and a short French play, "Le Petit Chaperon Rouge," performed by a Junior class helped by Miss Cooper, completed the first half of the programme. The last part of the evening was taken up with the acting by senior girls of several scenes from "A Midsummer Night's Dream," in which Bottom, the. Weaver, was the outstanding character. All the parts were played splendidly, and the whole thing caused much amusement. The concert was brought to a close by the singing of the School Song and the National Anthem. MISS McDOWALL'S CONCERTS. We have enjoyed the concerts arranged by Miss McDowall this year very much. Not only is it a pleasure to listen to them, but we learn to appreciate and enjoy really good music. The short talks on different composers, their lives and their works, and on the different instruments, are very instructive also.

•

At the first concert this year we heard Miss Mary Mack sing some delightful songs, and other artists gave pianoforte and violin solos. The second concert, given by a stringed quartette, was enjoyed more than any other. The work of the different instruments—the first and second violins, the viola, and the 'cello—were all explained, also differences between them, and then some of the musical programme was given. We were glad to welcome Miss McDowall to the next concert, and to hear her sing. Of her songs, we liked "The Fairy Pipers" best. At this concert Miss Dorothy Roxburgh also played some solos on the viola. The next programme gave us some very interesting piano and violin solos. We were also introduced to the French horn, and found that its mysterious coils produced very sweet music. "Ave Maria" with the French horn and piano was very beautiful. The only fault that we can find with these concerts is that they are too short. Perhaps their very shortness makes them more appreciated—our thirst is not quenched, and we are left longing for more. GUIDE NOTES. We returned this year nearly as strong in numbers as last year. Several new recruits filled the vacancies made by the old guides of last year. We commenced the year with an afternoon hike to Batesford. After leaving the bus at the bottom of the -hill, we climbed through the fence and walked on till we came to a big clearance, near a small creek. Here we spent a very enjoyable afternoon tracking, signalling, and having inter-patrol competitions. We finished with a picnic tea. The weekly meetings were not held regularly until the beginning of second

THE LUCERNIAN.

term, when it was arranged that both companies should hold their meetings together every second Friday. At the Annual Swimmiug Carnival our Guide Company came third, and we congratulate the Brownies on their success in winning the Brownie Cup for the second year in succession. Mark charts were put up in each corner to record the points gained each week. The 5th Company have a shield to work for—th•e Kookaburra Patrol being holders for this year. At th.2 close of second term a very exciting basket-ball match was played between our two companies. The match ended with a victory for the 5th Company. We are looking forward to the Guide Rally, which is to be held early in October, and we hope, not only to take part in the Sports, but to gain honours for our companies. THE BROWNIES. We are a happy little pack of twelve. Our Brown Owl is Miss Morgan, who comes every Friday afternoon for our parade. We are all trying just now to pass our second-class test. We have all nearly finished. The two sixes are called Elves and Pixies. Lesbia is the sixer of the Elves, and Betty of the Pixies. Miss Morgan has just been telling us a story called "The Faithful Brownies." We play games like "Irish Stew," "Three Dukes," "Numbers," and many others. We wish you all a very happy holiday. B.B. LIBRARY NOTES. Owing to the enlargement of both the Library and the Museum, the latter has been transferred to a room upstairs. In place of the old museum cupboard, there now hangs a large picture of the Malines Cathedral. Miss Reeves has given us a complete set of the Waverley Novels, eight volumes of Knight's Illustrated Shakes-

peare, "The Times" History of the Great War . in 20 -volumes, as well as many lighter novels for the fiction library. Mrs. Drake-Brockman has presented us with a subscription to the "London Punch," whilst Moira Rankin sent a gift of 30 books to the junior library. A donation has been received from Margaret Oddie. We are very grateful for all these generous gifts, and for the interest which has been shown in our Library. All sections of the Library have been considerably enlarged, and we should like to see the girls taking a greater interest in it by becoming subscribers. DRAMATIC NOTES. We began this year's dramatic work by several weeks of elocution. Towards the end of first term we definitely decided to study Barrie's "Quality Street," and to play it at the end of second term. Unfortunately, Miss Haase became very ill several weeks before the performance. Miss Robson, who was with us several years ago when Miss Haase was abroad, was able to take her place, and "Quality Street" was a great success. We thank Miss Morgan for the trouble which she took with extra coaching, also Mr. Ebbott, and Mr. Wilby for the furniture and some of the scenery used on the night of the performance. CAST OF CHARACTERS : Lorna Ebbott Captain Valentine Brown Kitty McLennan Ensign Blades Winsome Hendy Lieutenant Spicer Dorothy Wilby The Sergeant Jean Metherall An Old Soldier Joyce Smith Phoebe Mavis Cherry Susan Nancy Carstairs Miss Willoughby - Nancy Hamilton Miss Henrietta Annie Errey Miss Fanny Gwen Young Charlotte Parratt Edna Wolff Harriet Agnes Venters Patty (the maid) Leila Wallace Lady Emma Joan Holzgrefe Arthur Wellesley Thompson Theda Lord Isabella Patricia Simms Georgie Jean Venters William Smith

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THE LUCERNIAN.

Morongo Thrilled. THE

P.G.C. KINDE RS.

(From "Geelong Advertiser"). Yesterday afternoon while Heaven's artillery mistress, but Santa Claus was the cynosure of boomed and lightning flashed and the rain said, all eyes. "Now I'll show you that I can still rain," the When the children were in the Assembly little Kindergarten folk of the big Presbyterian Hall, and Miss Oman was leading them in Girls' College wondered if Santa Claus would some new songs, in walked Santa Claus. Such really come that day. He had such a jolly a kindly greeting for all the people, but a time with them last year at Roslyn, and he had special one for the little boys and girls sitting promised to come and see them all at the big in a circle near the piano. school on the hill that they called "Morongo." The biggest little boy was Santa Claus, for And he had said, "Remember to bring your he sat down in the children's circle, and talked mother with you," and all the mothers had to them, and asked them to sing him a song. promised to come, and they had come. And They knew a good one that was all about Santa now, it was raining very hard. Claus, and told him "to bring a ring for mother Miss Oman said Santa would be sure to come and a book for father, but as to ourselves, dear and she knew lots of things out of "When we Santa, we leave the present to you." were Young," and was hard at work studying Santa said that made it very difficult as he a new book called "Now We are Six." did like to know just what good little boys Miss Pratt (the Principal of the P.G.C.) and girls would like for Christmas. really knows everything, and can say "Do Then he invited them all to come and see his this!" and "Do that," and everybody does it if Christmas tree, and all the gifts hanging on it. they don't forget. Well, Miss Pratt said, "I Clinging to his hands and arms and long am sure Santa Claus will come this very after- robe, such a laughing band went with Santa noon." across the Quadrangle to the wide verandah So all the little people (being the only ones of the Mansion House of "Morongo." that really mattered) sang their songs and The Pied Piper of Hamlyn never had such played their games. And their mothers came a happy, laughing following. No pipe nor flute. to the school in big cars, for they' loved to Wherein, then, was the magic? watch the children and to hear them sing. The old trees and the old "Morongo" homePresently, there was a whirring, whirring, stead have seen many strange sights in their and a buzzing, buzzing, and then a deep boomdays—blackfellows creeping in from the bush, boom. "What is that?" said little Jean Mcstrange animals like the kangaroo and the emu, Phee. "Why, that is an aeroplane," said little courageous pioneers and their little folk, sadboy Collins. And so it was. And Miss Oman ness and gaiety. But never anything more took all the little folk out to see the big 'plane wonderful than that wide verandah-full of hovering over "Morongo." Then Miss Pratt children, eagerly watching every movement, came out with all the big girls, and soon everybody was out watching the aeroplane coming and listening to every word of this Santa who had come by aeroplane. neared and nearer. At last it stopped just near Gifts were handed to everyone of the Kindthe tennis courts. ergarten children, and then there were some And the children cried, "Look! Look! It is little visitors, and Santa had brought a little Santa Claus." Yes, in his beautiful red robe gift for every one of them. and a lovely red cap all lined with white fur. No, Miss Oman was not forgotten, for Santa He looked so happy, though he did have such found a strange packet in one of his big pocklong white whiskers. And the aviator was Captain Charlie Pratt. ets. He pretended that he didn't know for Once he was a fighting man in the Big War. whom it was, so the children helped him to Now he is a Man of Peace, taking dear old spell out the address, and it read, "To dear Santa Claus around to see as many of his be- Miss Oman, from Santa Claus, Christmas, 1927." lieving children as he possibly can. Then there were cheers for Santa Claus. It was so funny to hear Captain Pratt, the All the mothers and their friends had such aviator, speaking to Miss Pratt, the Head-

THE LUCERNIAN. a nice afternoon tea with Miss Pratt and her staff, but Santa had to hurry off, so he asked if the Kinders might see him go off in his 'plane. And Miss Pratt said, "Yes, certainly." And the little folk hung on to Santa, and talked away to him. One little boy said, "0, We don't go away. Stay with us always. don't want you to go." And a little girl with blue eyes said, "Yes. Do stay with us." But Santa had other children to visit, so all the little folk took him to .the big 'plane. By thL time all the big girls from the school were there. And some took photos. Others said they would like to take photos, but they had no films. Santa will see they get films for He put it down in his RememChristmas. brance Book.

Then as the 'plane sailed away in. a rainstorm, all the children of the Presbyterian Girls' School cheered and cheered. The little folks said it was the best visit from Santa Claus they have ever had in all their lives. Miss Pratt said it was thrilling. It thrilled the little folk, but she felt sure their mothers were even more thrilled. Miss Oman said, "No one enjoyed it as much as I did." But, privately, the one who enjoyed it most of all was Santa Claus. Some of the old people thought he was old, but the young folks knew he was six, for they heard him as he flew away saying to himself— "But now I am six, I'm as clever as clever, So I think I'll be six for ever and ever."

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SPEECH DAY And Prize Distribution. Inspiring Address by Hon. H. S. W. Lawson. (From "Geelong Advertiser"). The Annual Speech Day of the Presbyterian Girls' College took place at Regent Theatre on the afternoon of Wed, Dec. 14, 1927. The Presdent of the College Council (the Hon. H. S. W. Lawson, M.L.A.) occupied the chair. Associated with him on the stage were the Chairman of the Council (Mr. J. H. McPhillimy), Dr. Ethel Osborne, Mrs. J. F. Guthrie, the Hon. Martin McGregor (who was present as a visitor), the Revs. T. 5. Riddle, junr., B.A., (College Chaplain and member of the Council), J. B. Rentoul, W. W. Ingram, and W. A. Alston, Messrs. W. C. Robertson, John Pettitt, L. Hirst, J. T. Gill, and W. M. Reid (members of the Council), the Principal (Miss Pratt, M.A.), and Mrs. 0. Batten (President of the 01(1 Collegians' Association). The school prizes were distributed by Dr. Ethel Osborne, and Mrs. J. F. Guthrie distributed the sports prizes. After the girls, who occupied the stalls, had sung the opening hymn under the leadership of Mr. John Dawson to piano accompaniment provided by Miss Elma Taylor, the Rev. T. J. Riddle offered prayer.

Stating there was a formidable array of people to be addressed the Hon: H. S. \V. Lawson said it was to the girls he wanted to say a word that afternoon. He was only a figure-head of this school, but he had been following with interest the happenings of the year, the sports meetings and school contests, the official opening of "Morongo," the Governor-General's visit, and all the other activities incidental to the life of the school, and, although he had not the privilege of knowing what Miss Pratt was going to say in her report, he had no doubt whatever that it was going to tell a story of growth, development and progress, and an extension of the fine influences of the school. He thought the girls would regard him as a very good fellow because he had persuaded Dr. Ethel Osborne.to come down to the function to hand over the beautiful prizes arrayed before them. Dr. Osborne was one of the leading women of Victoria, having done a great amount of research work. She was president of the "Emily McPherson" College of Domestic Economy, and in many other ways was graciously favouring

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the community by placing at its disposal her expert knowledge and services. Therefore they were greatly honoured by the presence of Dr. Osborne that afternoon. The doctor, as indeed was the case with all of them, was delighted to see the girls looking so happy. They had had a great year, the outstanding event being the removal to the new buildings, and the conversion of the ancient home of "Morongo" so that it could cater for studies and the accommodation of boarders, and the building of the fine modern schoolrooms. But some of the girls present were breaking their active association with the school, and were about to take the stream. The influences of "Morongo" would remain with the" wherever they went. They had drunk of the spirit of a very fine school. And in partaking of its spirit they had passed into their being something they could never lose. They would always belong to the great fellowship of past pupils, present pupils, and pupils yet to come. Whet-ever they went there was a little hit of the school, and on their conduct and bel- aviour depended to some extent the honour of the school. Their - best wishes went out to those who were leaving school to take up life in other ways. The spirit of the school would carry them on to noble endeavour, and the striking successes and influences of the school would be ever potent influences in their lives. On behalf of the Council, whose president he was, he wanted to say how they appreciated the wonderful work of Miss Pratt as Principal of the school. (Applause). She lived for the school, and was untiring in the great service she rendered. The Council found those services an inspiration in its work, and considered itself fortunate in having a lady of such high educational attainments, fine soul, and big vision in charge of the school in its early stages. Miss Pratt was wonderfully supported by enthusiastic, zealous teachers, and they thanked them all for their services. To all who showed an interest in the school the Council wished to express its sincere thanks. There were still financial obligations to be undertaken and discharged, but they looked to the future with courage and large vision, knowing that the constituency on which they relied for the fulfilment of their obligations would not fail. They had found that benefactors abounded on all sides. Only recently Miss Pratt had reported to the Council that they must have domestic science equipment. That was all she had to do, for the Misses McPhillimy came along and said: "Here is the money; go ahead and do it, and do not talk about it." (Applause). So this fine adjunct was due to the generosity of the Misses McPhillimy. Such generosity as this inspired the Council with optimism,

filling it with courage and faith to carry on the great enterprise. Miss Pratt then presented her report, which is printed below. The girls contributed several enjoyable songs, the last to be sung at this stage being "The School and the Lamp that is Lit." Mr. Lawson pointed out that this was a local production, the words having been written by Mr. Lance Fallaw, and the music by Mr. John Dawson. Dr. Ethel Osborne said it was a great pleasure for her to come down to see the girls of the school at an early stage of what she believed was going to be a very glorious career. It seemed to her that the girls were taking part in a great pioneer movement, as a result of which great things would be accomplished in this part of Victoria There were some very fine schools here. Their great advantages brought a very great duty. The school was set in the midst of wonderful environment. When she was a girl the opportunities for girls taking an active part in the community were not so great as those enjoyed by the girls of to-day. She had come to Victoria to help pioneer the domestic science movement, and she wanted to pay tribute to Mr. Lawson for his wonderful work in regard to that movement. Although when she interviewed him when he was Minister for Education, and later when he was Premier, he seemed to look upon her as having "a bee in her bonnet." It was when he was Premier that the bill was introduced paving the way for the College of Domestic Economy. Then Sir William McPherson came along with his wonderful gift of £25,000, and so was founded the "Emily McPherson" College of Domestic Economy. She wanted the girls to realise that Mr. Lawson, their president, had done so much to bring about this very fine domestic science movement, which was of vital importance in regard to the education of the girls. She hoped that when the domestic science section at "Morongo" was in full swing, perhaps with a trainee of the College of Domestic Economy at its head, the next dramatic performance of the school would not be "Out of the Kitchen," but "In the Kitchen." She thought it was an easy matter for people to give money to deserving objects when they could not take that money with them. But it was a wonderful thing when people gave things while they could see and appreciate the fine uses to which the money was being put. She hoped they would invite her down to see the school at "Morongo," particularly the domestic science section. One message she wanted to leave the girls. The only thing they had of their own was the day's work. If they did not do some-

THE LUCERNIAN. thing worth while each day, it would be wasted effort. She was greatly impressed with the achievements of the Girl Guides at the school, and was delighted to have had the honour of taking a prominent part in that day's function. Dr. Osborne then distributed the school prizes, shortly after which she left with the Hon. H. S. W. Lawson and the Hon. Martin McGregor. Before leaving, Mr. Lawson introduced Mrs. J. F. Guthrie, reminding those present that "Morongo" had been the home of Senator and Mrs. Guthrie, both of whom had shown a deep and practical interest in the school in many ways. They were honoured by the presence of Mrs. Guthrie, whom he asked to distribute the sports prizes. When Mrs. Guthrie had distributed the sports prizes, Mr. J. H. McPhillimy took the chair, and explained that Mr. Lawson had had to leave early in order to proceed to Castlemaine, where he liad an important meeting to attend that night. He invited the girls to give three cheers for Mrs. Guthrie. After these had been given, he moved a vote of thanks to that lady. This was passed with acclamation. Mr. McPhillimy said he regretted that Dr. Ethel Osborne had also had to leave early. because he was thus deprived of the opportunity of thanking her for her attendance to distribute the school prizes. They appreciated this very much. The singing of the School Song and the National Anthem concluded the function. PRINCIPAL'S REPORT In presenting the 8th Annual Report, the Principal (Miss Gertrude Pratt) said: "Whatever the future may hold in store for us, no year will be more deeply significant, more vitally important than the year which is ending to-day, for it has seen the transfer of the school to our permanent home at "Morongo." It has been a great work. To-day the school has its home in what is, perhaps, one of the finest and most historic spots in the State. No one can be associated with it without feeling and responding to the strong appeal made by its beauty and charm. More and more as the year has progressed have we realised how wise the Council has been in taking us from our former restricted surroundings to the beauty, the restful silence and the quiet freedom of the To all wide-spreading fields at "Morogno." concerned the past twelve months, though full of strenuous effort, have been also full of conEvent has succeeded event tinued interest. from that first unforgettable morning in February to that afternoon in October, when the

school was officially opened by His Excellency Lord Stonehaven, Governor-General of Australia. It was a memorable ending to a memorable year. Before passing to th detail of our work, I wish to acknowledge our great debt to our president, Hon. H. S. W. Lawson; our chairman, Mr. T. H. McPhillimy, and to the other members of the Council. Their constant generosity and untiring zeal have been an inspiration and example to us all. As a result of their work, we have a splendidly equipped school boarding house, with ample accommodation for sleeping-out under ideal conditions, and, in addition, every modern convenience and comfort. We have also a magnificent block of school buildings, beautifully proportioned, and so Ncell designed that work can be carried out with ease and efficiency. Next year we begin to equip our science room, and for this we are indebted to Mr. Angus Laird, while through the splendid generosity of the Misses McPhillimy, a model kitchen for the teaching of cookery and house craft will be available for 1928. This will enable us to make moi.e adequate provision for those girls who do not wish to study along the lines prescribed by the university examinations. Turning now to the detail of our work, I am glad to report that the health of the girls has been excellent, that the tone of the school has been good, and the standard of work very satisfactory. Our numbers have increased, particularly on the boarding side, and we have now on our roll 180 girls, 55 of whom are boarders. In the 1926-27 Public Examinations we gained 4 Leaving and 6 Intermediate Certificates, and in addition 4 girls just failed to complete the required number of subjects. In the honours examination our results were very good. Connie Lancaster secured 2nd class honours in French and 3rd in English, whilst Dorothy Adams gained 1st class honours in English, French, British History and European History. In British History she was first, and gained the exhibition, whilst in English she was equal fi.i st and divided the exhibition. On the results of the whole examination she was awarded a senior scholarship, being third on the list in order of merit, and first of all the girl candidates of the State. In music, this year, we have had satisfactory results, for out of 8 entries, I honour in theory, grade 3; 2 credit passes in piano, grade 3; and four other passes were obtained. In sport, 1927 has been an unsuccessful year. After holding it for four years, Clarendon P.L.C., Ballarat, has succeeded in wresting from us the Association Shield for Basket-ball. In tennis also we have been defeated, and in friendly matches our only success has been the winning of a base-ball match during the first term. These defeats have in the main

THE LUCERNIAN.

been due to the difficulty of organising our sport while grounds were in the possession of builders and workmen. Now, however, keen interest is being shown, and as practically every girl is taking some part in the games of the school, the standard of play is improving. Next year base-ball is to be included in the Association matches, so that inter-school sport will have an added interest. Golf has been a popular winter game, and we are very grateful to Messi s. Max Bell, H. J. M. Lowe and J. L. Gibson for the plan of our golf course. So that sport within the school might be more easily contested, a fourth House was created early in the year. This was named "Lawson," by the kind permission of our President. Inter-House matches have, as usual, been keenly contested, Harris House has the honour of gaining the much-coveted "Mrs. Lewis Hirst" Cup, and also the "Charles Neville" Cup so F. Guthgenerously given to us by Senator rie to commemorate the work done in the school by our former chaplain. Roslyn ,has secured the "Hitchcock" Tennis Cup, and the "Pettitt" Shield for work, presented this year by Jean, Mavis and Thelma Pettitt to mark their connection with the school from its beginning. Bible Study Circles have been held. We desire to thank the many friends who have The School given addresses to this class. Dramatic Society gave a fine performance of "Come out of the Kitchen" in the second term. The Library and Museum Committees have made the library a centre of attraction for the girls. The Editorial Committee produced an excellent issue of our magazine "The Lucernian." Our Guides and Brownies continue to do good work. So many girls have wished to become Guides that a new company has been formed, known as 5A Geelong. We offer our sincere thanks to Miss Morgan, Miss Oman and Miss Freeman for the very unst!fish work they have done for the Guides. Our Old Collegians, ander their president, Mrs. 0. Batten, have been a very active Association., and have supported the school in. a very practical way. The list of successes gained by Old Collegians is satisfactory. Mollie Rich has received her B.A. and Diploma of Education. Jean Pettitt and Kathleen Perry have completed their first year of training as teachers. Sylvia Baird is very successfully finishing her second year of Her record is one of Kindergarten work. which the school is very proud. At the University, Mavis Pettitt is doing •her second year Arts; while Elma Taylor, after gaining an Entrance Exhibition to the University Conservatorium, has passed her first year Diploma of Music with first class honours in all subjects. As we review the year's work and its happenings, we realise how much we owe to the

liberality of our friends. We would like to place on record our deep gratitude to those who have so substantially helped the Council in its work of establishing and developing "Morongo." To donors of prizes and to all those who by gifts to the School and House, and by many other ways too numerous to mention have shown their deep interest in ;the welfare of the School, we wish to extend our warmest thanks. To the staff, all of whose members I am glad to say are returning next year, grateful acknowledgment must be made Of the valuable service rendered by them throughout the year. Special thanks must be given to Miss Oman for her capable management of our City Preparatory School and Kindergarten, and to Miss Dunoon, who as head of staff, has successfully filled the position left vacant by Miss Shaw's acceptance of the Principalship of Clarendon P.L.C., Ballarat. Miss Shaw has been greatly missed, but we are glad to know that in her new field of service she is finding much happiness and success. By the departure of Rev. C. Neville we have suffered a great loss. As chaplain and member of the Council, he served the school well. His place has been taken by Rev. T. J. Riddle. We thank him for his help and for the time and care he has given to work which is of such supreme importance to the life and well being of the school. A word of commendation must be given before closing to the Prefects and Senior Girls for their very real contribution to the happinesS and success of the year. So carefully have they guarded the ideals and traditions of the School that these have suffered no hurt in a year of rapid growth and expansion. In conclusion, I wish to thank our visitors, Dr. Ethel Osborne and Mrs. J. F. Guthrie, for coming this afternoon to distribute our prizes. We apreciate the honour they have conferred upon us, and extend to them both a very warm welcome. PRIZE LIST, 1927. Honour Sixth: T. Pettitt, Dux; M. Paterson, K. McLennan. Scripture: T. Pettitt; senior reading, T. Pettitt. Lower Sixth: M. Cherry, Dux; M. Garratt, B. Mann; special, Botany, B. Mann. Form V.: M. Salter, Dux : N. Hamilton, N. Carstairs; Special Botany, J. Smith; Senior School Essay, N. Carstairs; Scripture, V. Thomas : Senior House Scripture, N. Carstairs. Form V.A.: R. Price, Dux; L. Adams, N. McClure, C. Bett, E. Wilson; Projects, G. Madden, N. Metherail; Scripture, G. Madden; Middle School Essay, L. Adams; Special Botany, N. McClure. Form Remove: D. Glover, Dux; J. McCurdy, G. Johnston; Junior House, Scripture, G. Johnston; Scripture, M. Morgan,

THE LUCERNiAN. D. Glover, equal first; Needlework, M. Mitchell : Projects, M. Mitchell. Form IV.C.: K. Badger, Dux; E. Hicks, N. Price; Scripture, K. Badger; Projects, E. Hicks : Junior Reading, N. Price; Needlework, G. Burns; Junior School Form IV.B.: L. Mathews, Esay, L. Tilley. Dux : L. Gill, G. Walter; Scripture, H. McCulloch; Needlework, Z. Chappell. Form IV.A.: J. Craddock, Dux; M. Simson, B. Berryman; Scripture, J. Craddock : Needlework, M. Simson; Preparatory School Essay, J. Craddock. Form III.B.: M. Purnell, Dux; G. Parish, A. SMith; Scripture, N. Gosbell : Needlework, M. Purnell. Form III.A.: N. Craddock, Dux; A. Simson; Scripture, N. Craddock: Needlework, Form II.B.:M. Pettitt, first in A. Simson. form; J. Holzgrefe: Scripture, M. Pettitt; Needlework, M. Pettitt. Form II.A.: E. Ebbott first in form; Writing, M. Searle; Reading, S. McDonald; Progress, J. Gilbert. Form I.B.: first in form, D. Batten; Progress, J. Trotter; Number, B. McKenzie. Form LA..: General Excellence, A. McPhee; Progress, J. Elvins, 0. Bartlett; Kindergarten Gifts, N. Barr, B. Batten, B. Bartlett, L. Clarke, N. Pilgrim, B. Thomas, R. West, M. Denson, B. Mockridge, J. McQueen, D. Bartlett. SPECIAL PRIZES. Physical Culture: Senior, K. Ford; Improvement, N. Price : Junior, M. Guthrie. Elocution and Dramatic Work; Senior, E. Leigh; Intermediate, B. Coutts; Junior, N. Holzgrefe. Pianoforte: Senior, E. Leigh, J. Bailey, M. Harding, G. Johnston; Intermediate, I. Geddes; Junior, M. Morgan, N. Redpath, Margaret Pettitt : Progress, Marianne Pettitt. Class

Singing: Senior, G. Madden; Junior, C. Strong, Arts and Crafts: B. Drawing: M. Parish. Young. Dressmaking: N. Hamilton, L. Wallace. Mrs. S. Keays Memorial Prize for Magazine Prize: K. Needlework: E. Leigh. McLennan. Museum Shield: Bessell Batten. Senior Prefect: E. Leigh. A. C. Harris Prize: E. Leigh. Sports and Swimming Championship Cups.— School Swimming Championship; G Madden. Old Collegians' Swimming; K. Nash. Annual Sports: Senior Champion, M. Pettitt; Junior Champion, L. Gill; Preparatory Champion, T. Grceves; Old Collegians, E. Sergeant. Senior Tennis Champion, G. Morgan. Junior Tennis Champion, L. Gill. House Cups and Shields.— Guide Inter-Patrol Shield: Kookabuira Patrol (Leader, Gwen Morgan). Basket-ball Shield: Roslyn (C-tptain, M. Garratt). Base-ball Shield: Harris (Captain, G. Morgan). Tennis Cup: Roslyn. Annual Sports Shield: Harris. Charles Pettitt Shield for Work: Roslyn. Neville Cup: Harris. Mrs. Lewis Hirst Cup: Harris. Donors to Prize Fund.—Old Collegians, Miss C. Haase, Mrs. F. Oddie, Parents' Association, Miss M. Oddie. Dr. Baird, Mrs. F. Johnston, Mrs. A. T. Andrews, Miss V. Moebus, Mrs. 0. Batten, Mrs. C. 0. Strong, Mrs. T. J. M. Kennedy, Rev. F. Rolland, Miss E. Keays, Mr. F. Dowsett, Miss Eales, Miss F. Wilmore, Miss E. Taylor, Mr. J. Dawson, Miss Sutherland, Miss Vigar, Miss B. Keays, Mrs. T. M. Browne, A Friend of the School, Mr. McPhillimy, Mrs. D. F. Neilson, Mr. M. Y. Venters, Mrs. D. C. Robertson, Mrs. J. T. Gill, Mr. J. A. Laird, Mr. J. Pettitt.

AERIAL VIEW OF MORONGO

THE I,UCERNIAN.

Examination Successes.

New Pupils.

Intermediate :— Hazel Bumpstead—English, Arithmetic. Marion Cameron—English. Nancy Carstairs—English, History, Geography, Botany, Physiology. Lorna Ebbott—English, French, History, Geography, Arithmetic, Botany. Nancy Hamilton—English, French, History, Geography, Arithmetic, Music. Lisle Hill—English, French, Geography, Arithmetic, Botany, Drawing, History. Erva Hirst—English, Geography, Botany, Physiology. Rrenda Jones—French, Geography, Botany, Alison Stewart—English, French, History. Jessie Penney—English, Geography, Drawing. thirsty Ross—Latin, English, History, Geometry, Geography. Margaret Salter—English, French, Geography, Botany, Physiology. Joyce Smith—English, French, Botany. Valmai Thomas—English, Geography, Physiology. Leaving Pass:— Mavis Cherry—English, History, French, Drawing. Margaret Garratt—English, Botany, Drawing, History, French. Beryl Mann—Botany. Gwen Morgan—English, History, French, Drawing. Marion Parish—English, History, Botany, French. Moira Rankin—English, French, Botany, Drawing. Betty Young—Drawing, Algebra (Int.). Leaving Honours:— Kitty McLennan—English (pass), French (2nd class). Thelma Pettitt—French (3rd class), Botany (2nd class). Mollie Paterson—European History (pass), French (2nd class).

VI.— Isabel Heard, Ivy Henderson, Marjorie Dunlop, Jean Robertson. V. Jean Metherall, Helen Ferguson, Clarice Harrison. V.A.— Robina Colville, Mary Drake-Brockman, Edna Richardson, Jean Baker. Remove.--. Dorothy Cassidy, Agnes Geddes, Flora Geddes, Mary . Graham, Llona Hiddlestone, Mona Parry, _ Jean Pyle, Olive Rutledge, Hazel Splatt, Lylia Stickland, Helen Twaddell, Edna Wollff, Jessie Gibson, Daphne Matthews, Isobel McLean, Jessie Young. IV.C.— Johnsie Adam, Margery Craig, Olive Filmer, Marie Robertson, Nancy Thorburn, Kirsty Thorburn. IV.B.— Allwynn Hiddlestone, Gloria Lock, Mary Stones, Margaret McCready. IV.A., Peggy Freedman, Pat Simms, Beryl Eaton, Joyce Glover.

Kindergarten New Girls.

Pat Elvins. Lesley Holzgrefe. Shirley Herd. Pat Wilson. Margaret Shirra. Phyllis David.

Freda Morrison. Betty McDonald. Joan Clemen ger. Marjorie Cooke. Betty Haggar.

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Prize Essays. SENIOR SCHOOL. "He never fails who dies In a great cause" . . . All through the ages has this been illustrated—from the far-back years when men went unflinchingly to their death for their religion's sake, to the present generation, when thousands of our soldiers gave up their 1;ves unhesitatingly for their Country, the Freedom and their God. The Roman citizens watching Christian martyrs being put to death, regarded them as traitors to the nation, but to the present time we still hear of their sufferings and their examples of bravery for the freedom of religion. Our own Australian soldiers wrote the name of "Anzac" across the pages of honour of the World during the World War. They did not fail ; they will never be forgotten. The boys that gave up their lives during their first night in the trenches each prepared the way for victory. None are forgotten ; none knew what the end would be ; all that they knew was to fight for a good and great cause. "They shall not grow old, as we that are left grown old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn; At the going down of the sun and, in the morning We will rememl- er them." Great scientists who gave up their whole lives in search of some good to benefit humanity, and who died on the eve of their triumph, have not failed. They have shown the beginning of the road to success to follow. Others will receive the honour and glory for the discovery, which is due to the pioneers who blazed the trail for them.

Great explorers who marched onwards, ever onwards to their goal, and only gave in when they dropped with exhaustion on their track, opened our country for us. I read once of a party of explorers in the far North Pole. One of their number fell ill, and was unable to move. He begged to be left behind to di..e and not encumber his companions, but none would agree to it. They took him with them. Their progress was slow,—and none reached their goal. Yet everyone knows of these explorers who all died that there might be a remotest chance of saving one. If we want another example of a death that has never been forgotten. we will look to Calvary, and there we will see the finest example of a Death that has saved humanity. Nancy Carstairs. X

UPPER MIDDLE SCHOOL. A Summer Evening in my Garden. I sat on a deck chair, watching the moon rise, big and flaming, over the black hills. I prayed that it would tell of the arrival of the long deferred rain. But, no ; it had never a suggestion of wateryness on its glowing face. I stared at the leafless trees and the drooping plants ; heard the dry rustle of a faint hot wind, and dreamt of a cool country, with green grass and bright flowers. Then I heard a harsh little voice, belonging to a quaint tiny blackman. But I did not spend much time in noticing him, for the things I saw around were too wonderful to allow any other thoughts. I stood in a new land of dull white and cold blue shadows, suggesting rather than defining grotesque little people—shiny

THE LUCERNIAN.

and black—standing before me, and gazing in an oppressive silence straight at me. They seemed to be looking right through me, and it did not add to my comfort when I heard a faint chirrup behind me. I whirled about, and there, sitting on his ridiculous little tail was a small lop-eared rabbit. He seemed a little contemptuous, and was gravely looking at me with glittering pink eyes, derisively twitching his buttony nose and long white whiskers. All the little men regarded him with awe, and rushed to do his bidding, when he spoke in a squeaky voice, and I was distinctly alarmed when I realized the meaning of his last order. He had said, "Take this large animal and throw it over the edge. Be quick about it." I indignantly turned to him, and said. 'How do you think you'll get me there? I'm lots bigger than your people." 'They've taken others much bigger than you," he said unconcernedly. "I suppose they can manage you." I was about to continue the argument when he said aggressively, "But hurry up; I expect you want to have a wish granted before you are thrown over !" "Why, yes !" I exclaimed. 'Just see that we get some good heavy rain down there, will you ?" "Oh, that's easy enough. I'll remember," and he disappeared with another chirp, just like a bird. I was seized by hundreds of strong "One, arms, and hurried to the edge. two, three. Heave !" said the little men in chorus, and I shut my eyes in anticipation of a hard fall. Then I felt a little splash, and, opening my eyes I saw rain falling on the earth around me. I sat still for a moment, thinking of my visit to a strange place, and then I realized that it had all been a dream, because

no sensible rabbit would chirp, even if he could speak English. And then, on the face of a pale, silvery moon, I saw a little, lop-eared rabbit, followed by three small, dark shadows. Lyn. Adams.

LOWER MIDDLE SCHOOL.

Thoughts on a School Bell. Many schools have bells valued for some historic event in the days past, and have legends and stories attached to them. I am going to take the reader back to the days when the blacks roamed in the bush and the first brave pioneers ventured into the wilds of an unknown country. Now, from Bell Post Hill one can see a large city on the edge of a bay, on which yachts sail and large steamers bringing their cargoes to Geelong (for that is the city's name) go backwards and forwards. But once where this city is was dense bush, in which a few scattered settlers lived and warrior blacks roamed, and sailed their war-canoes on the bay. Then on Bell Post Hill stood a station and home where the most prosperous settler lived. From his roof a constant watch was kept on the country round about, always on the alert for blacks marching to attack the settlers on the plain below. Let us imagine that we are living on this station, and that we are waiting for the least sign of hostile blacks. Suddenly we see the watch raise his telescope to his eye. He hurries down the ladder, and rushes to the tower where the bell is kept. Frantically he tugs at the rope. Boom ! Boom ! Bo-o-o-m ! Three times the warning bell clangs out

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—the danger signal. The sound reaches the settlers below, and the hills fling back the echo as if urging the settlers on to The protect their wives and families. hostile blacks, marching towards the settlement, hear the bell, and as a volley of firing is turned on them, they utter wild cries of fear, and turning, rush back into the heart of the bush. We cheer, and the settlers cheer back in answer. The bell has done good service, and now clangs out warning—to the schoolgirls at the same homestead, now turned into a Public School—that pleasure and playtime is over, and seems to urge them as it urged the settlers long ago. Sometimes the school-girls think of pioneers, and gaze with admiration and fondness at the bell. And over the sighing gumtrees a whispering voice seems to say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Lorainne Tilley. la=

Before Rosamund could utter a word of thanks, the little man has disappeared. That night Rosamund couldn't sleep, and the words the little man had said seemed to ring in her ears. Early next morning she got up and hastily dressed. After a while she ran out of the house, out of the garden and gate. When she had been running a while she heard a groan as if someone was in pain. Looking around, she saw a poor little rabbit with a thorn in its foot. "Oh, you poor little thing," said Rosamund. Then she got some water, and got the thorn very gently from its little foot. Then she bathed and bandaged it. When she had finished it the rabbit said, "I know you are looking for the silver tree that is in the ugly witch's garden. I will get it for you as a reward for your kindness." "Thank you so much," said Rosamund, but the rabbit was nowhere to be seen. Rosamund then sat on a log nearby and waited.

JUNIOR SCHOOL. A Fairy Story. "Oh, dear !" sighed Rosamund, as she sat under an apple-tre•e in one corner of the garden, "How I wish I was a little fairy." No sooner had she uttered these words when she heard a squeaky voice say, "Oh, do you ?" Looking, she saw a little man about three or four iniches high, dressed from head to foot in green. "I heard you say just now that you wished you were a fairy," he went on. "Yes, that is quite right," said Rosamund, jumping for joy. "Can I really be one?" "No, you must first of all find a silver tree which grows in an ugly witch's garden."

She had not been waiting long before the rabbit returned with four larger rabbits carrying the silver tree. 'Mere is the tree, little girl." "Oh, thank you very much indeed," said Rosamund. "Touch this tree and you will become a fairy immediately," said the rabbit. Rosamund touched it, and immediately she found herself standing in fairyland, with a pink and silver dress on, silver slippers, pink wings, and a silver wand. "Now I am a fairy," she gasped. "Yes," said a gentle -voice. Looking up, Rosamund beheld the Fairy Oueen smiling at her. "Through your kindness to my pet rabbit you are now a fairy." Joan Craddock.

THE LUCERNIA N.

TENNIS NOTES. BASEBALL NOTES. We began this year with the added advantage of two new courts—the gifts of This y.a.r Baseball has taken a more Mr. Hitchcock and Mr. McPhillirny. important part in the sports life of the Our first match was played against school because it. is now an. AssociationClarendon at Geelong, and resulted in a game. We played two matches in first victory for P.G.C. During the first term term—one against Clarendon P.L.C., Balthe tennis four received a few valuable larat, which we won, and the other lessons from Mr. England which helped `against C.E.G.G.S., Ballarat, when we us considerably in our match against were beaten. Grammar. This team, however, proved too strong for us, and we were defeated. Our play has improved considerably Most of second term was given -up to under the coaching of Miss Morgan and Basket-ball, and only one tennis match Mr. Gillespie, and, in our first match for was played—that being against Strath- this term, we were victorious against Bal.erne. larat Grammar. We have only played one return match House matches have aroused much inup to date. This was against Grammar at Geelong, when the team showed terest, there being three teams competing marked improvement, and the fate of the from each of the four houses—Harris match was not decided until the last set. House gaining the most points in the This exciting match ended in a win for three divisions. Grammar by one game. The inter-house We take this opportunity of thanking matches will be commenced very early in third term, after which the School Mrs. A. Wilby for the baseball net, which has been of great help to our back-stops. Championships will be played. G.M. Results of Association matches played : Results of tennis matches :— Clarendon v. P.G.C. Victory, P.G.C. 44-38 Morongo v. Clarendon, Ballarat. Victory, Mogames. Ballarat C.E.G.G.S. v. P.G.C. Victory, Ballarat C.E.G.G.S. 48-31 games. Stratherne v. P.G.C. Victory, Stratherne. 3732 games. Ballarat C.E.G.G.S. v. P.G.C. Victory, Ballarat C.E.G.G.S. 38-37 games.

rongo. C.E.G.G.S., Ballarat v. Morongo. Victory, C.E.G.G.S. Morongo v. C.E.G.G.S., Ballarat. Victory, Morongo.

THE LUCERNIAN.

Basketball Team 1928, after Clarendon Match, Aug. 4th, 1928.

BASKETBALL NOTES. Basket Ball was commenced on our return from the Easter holidays. The team, however, was not decided upon until the beginning of second term, when consistent practice began. Our first match was played against Ballarat Grammar at Geelong, when we gained an easy victory. We were also successful in our match against Clarendon, and again in the two return matches. Thus P.G.C. will be holders of the shield for 1929. This year we played some friendly matches against two of the Melbourne teams—Stratherne and Lowther Hall. Each match resulted in a win for Morongo. Keen interest has been shown in Bas-

ket Ball this year, and som•e very exciting house matches were played. A junior House team has been formed, and so the younger on•es were able to take part in the house matches. Harris House has gained the Basket Ball shield this year. G.M. Results of Basket Ball matches Ballarat C.E.G.G.S. v. P.G.C. Victory, P.G.C. Clarendon v. P.G.C. Victory P.G.C. Stratherne v. P.G.C. Victory, P.G.C. Lowther Hall v. P.G.C. Victory, P.G.C. Ballarat C.E.G.G.S. v. P.G.C. Victory, P.G.C. Clarendon v .P.G.C. Victory, P.G.C. House Matches:— Harris House—g matches. Lawson House-5 matches. Roslyn House-2 matches. Ardens House-2 matches.

THE LUCERNIAN.

SWIMMING SPORTS. The Swimming Sports were held this year at the Men's Baths. The weather was dull but favourable to swimming. We congratulate Jean Griffiths on being Senior Champion, and Dorothy Glover on being Junior Champion. The Chamr,ionship and House results were as follows :— Open Championship.—i, J. Griffiths ; 2, G. Madden; 3, C. Strong. Junior Championship.—i, D. Glover; 2, G. Madden; 3-, M. Drake-Brockman. Senior Championship.—i, J. Griffiths; 2, G. Morgan; 3, E. Hirst. Winning House:— I.—Ardens-56 points. 2.—Harris--41 points. 3.—Lawson-2o1/2 points. 4.—Roslyn—17/ points.

THE ANNUAL SPORTS, 1928. The Annual Sports were held on Saturday, October 20th, and, in spite of adverse

weather conditions, and the rather bad state of the playing field, they were a great success. This year the sports were something more than the ordinary gathering, for the two new Tennis Courts were opened by their donors, Mr. Hitchcock and Mr. McPhillimy. Unfortunately, the ceremony was spoiled by an untimely shower of rain, but this did not damp the spirits of the people, for the cheering was most hearty. A new and vital interest was added to the House competition, for we had the new "Margaret Shannon" gold cup to win, and though each House did its best, we arc all very glad that Lawson—Margaret's House will be the first to have its name on the cup. We congratulate Marianne Pettitt as Senior Champion, Lorna Gill as Junior, and Lesbia Madden as Prep. Champion.

1=1

Parents' and Friends' Association. A most enjoyable Annual Meeting was held at Morongo on May 3rd, when Mr. A. L. David was again elected president, and Dr. A. W. Morgan and Mrs. H. B. Sincere regret Simson vice-presidents. was expressed when the resignation of Mr. H. A. Purnell had to be accepted; and it was decided to place on record' the valuable services which had been rendered to the Association by Mr. Purnell. Mrs. R. G. Ebbott and Miss Shannon were appointed honorary joint secretaries. The committee, which has been

strengthened by the addition of several members, expressed the desire to have some definite aim to work for, and it was decided_ that the aim would be the establishing and upkeep of golf links at Morongo. To raise funds for this object, sweets were successfully sold at the School Dramatic ; and through the courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. F. Rolland, a concert is to be held on Friday, October 19th, in the Morrison Hall, the programme of which has been arranged by Mrs. G. F. Walter.

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School Council d otes: The Council is glad to have once more the opportunity of sending a message through the medium of the "Lucernian" to the present and the past pupils of the College. The Council was pleased to learn that, despite the seasonal conditions and the serious financial depression, 1928 has seen more scholars than any previous year. During the year, 195 were enrolled, of whom 65 were boarders. This is an indication that the College is becoming more widely known. The Council is grateful to all who have been so generous with their gifts during 1928, and not least to their Chairman, Mr. McPhillimy, who always shows his interest in such a practical manner. Mention of all gifts has been made in another section of the magazine, except that of Sir William McPherson, who lately sent a cheque for £500 to the Council. Sir William has promised to visit the school soon, and he will be warmly welcomed. This year has seen many improvements at Morongo. A new road has been made for vehicular traffic, and a large plantation of 500 cypress trees has been laid out on the western side of the school buildings to provide a future shelter. A vast amount of work in the grounds has been . overseen by Mr. J. Pettitt, and his energy and enthusiasm have transformed the surroundings of the College. The Council had hoped to plough and sow the sports ground, but the weather has made that impossible this year. However, the Parents' Association has determined to raise sufficient money to make one section of the sports fields most attractive to the pupils. The Council received the resignation of Dr. A. L. Baird with regret. It was pleased to welcome as new members Rev. A. Simms, B.A., and Mr. W. M. Reid.

Congratulations are offered to the pupils for their examination successes of last year. These successes are of value to the school as well as to the girls themThe Council also congratulates selves. the girls on the marked success gained in competitive sport. The Annual Dramatic Entertainment was a delight to all who attended it. It was quite up to the high standard of previous years, and reflects credit on all concerned. The Council was pleased that Hon. H. S. W. Lawson again permitted his reelection as President of the College. Mr. Lawson has been able to help the school in many and varied ways, and takes 'a keen interest in all its doings. In conclusion, the Council wishes to thank Miss Pratt and her staff for their unfailing loyalty and devotion to their great work. It also recognises the loyalty of the pupils to their school. The Council would like to say to the girls that it is in their hands to make Morongo stand for all that is best in education and culture, and this they can do by responding to the spiritual teaching of their school. Many of the pupils will be finishing their school life this year. The Council wishes to convey to them best wishes for their future. It trusts that they will continue to take an active and enthusiastic interest in their school. The best avenue through which to work is the Old Collegians' Association, whose •efforts are always helpful and inspiring to the Council. That 1929 will bring still greater prosperity to Morongo, and make the school a still more powerful influence in the community _ is the earnest wish of the Council,

TIIE LUCERNIAN.

Varsity Notes. With S.R.C. and C.M.U.W. elections just behind us, and swot vac. and exams. not so very far in front of us, we feel in rather the same position as the V. or VI. Form girl who murmurs wearily, "Form Notes again." And, even more than she does, we feel that there is nothing whatever to write about. Nothing except work, that is, and we don't want to talk or even think about our work just now. Fourth term is too near. But please don't let all this talk about exams, frighten you, because we want some of you to come up and judge the Varsity for yourselves, and find out what a very pleasant place it is. We want you to come and sit at our table in the Clubus, and freeze with us at lectures in the Arts Building, and join with us in time-honoured discussions about the University spirit, and the inanities of Commencement, and whether or not the Varsity should be referred to as the "Shop." What inducements have we to offer you? First of all, the inestimable benefit

of our advice and protection ; secondly, much freedom and more laughter, plenty of work and hard-earned holidays to follow; thirdly, a beautiful stained-glass window in Wilson Hall to gaze at during exams; and—to come at once to the "lastly"—a couple of hard-won letters after your name. Is that enough to tempt If it isn't, tell us, and we'll add you? whatever you like. For we do want you to come and swell our undeniably select band, before it dwindles away to nothing. And if you don't come soon, the Arts Building may be adequately heated, and the Lake clear as crystal instead of, as at present, grey with mud, and the new Clubus may be 'erected, and the name of "Shop" thrown over for something newer, shorter, and (to the unsympathetic) still more irrational in the way of nomenclature. As for us, we will have passed our exams, or have failed to pass them, as the case may be;—but anyhow we won't be here to welcome you. So if you want a brass band and a deputation to meet vou, you had better come at once.

FRONT GATE OF MORONGO.

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Gifts. Surely no school has ever been more fortunate in having such a generous and enthusiastic Council, Old Collegians' Association, and Parents' Association as Morongo. This year the Council have given up some of their afternoons to come out and work on the golf links. Mr. McPhillimy, Chairman of the Council, and Mr. Hitchcock have given us two new asphalt tennis courts. It is Mr. McPhillimy also whom we have to thank for the roseblooms which at present are making Morongo beautiful, as it was he who arranged for the pruning of the trees. Mr. Laird, who is on the Council and is our architect, has given the bench and sink in the Science room. On corning back after the Christmas holidays, Miss Pratt and Miss Oman were delighted to find a transformed Kindergarten. The Old Collegians had had many alterations made during the holidays, and the result was a delightful surprise for all those who work at Elizabeth Street. Dr. McPhee also had given five guineas towards the fund, and later in the year the Old Collegians' Dramatic Club presented the Kindergarten with a radiator. At a dance organized by a Sports Committee in aid of the sports funds, the music was supplied by the Parents' Association, the supper by the Old Collegians, and the tickets and programmes were the gifts of Mr. Neilson. Eleven pounds was handed over to the Sports Fund. The Old Collegians generously provided the supper and music at a dance given by the Principal and Prefects at Morongo.

A very important and very generous gift was from the Misses McPhillimy, who fitted one of our rooms as a Domestic Science Kitchen. Work has been carried out in the kitchen all this year, and for those girls who ai e fond of domestic science it has been an invaluable help and a great pleasure. At the beginning of the year a Cup, called the "Charles Neville Cup," to be competed for by the Houses at sport, and given by Senator Guthrie, was handed to the captain of the winning House for 1927. A beautifully-polished blackwood shield has been given for competition in work by the three Pettitt sisters Jean, Mavis and Thelma. The Ena Miller shield, originally for Baseball, is now awarded for inter-House Swimming. We have been promised another cup by Mrs. Simson. From Margaret Oddie we have received donations to the Library and the "Lucernian" funds, from Mr. Ebbott the new lockers for the Sixth Form room, from Mrs. Wilby an umpire's chair for tennis and a base-ball net, Miss Reeves sent pictures and books for the Library, which were left to us by the late Mr. Steedman, who had previously donated a piano stool, and from Miss Ward, through Mr. McPhillimy, we have a picture entitled "Affinities." This picture was painted by Miss A. M. Soudan, Armadale, and was one of the exhibits in the Victorian Artists' Exhibition held some little time ago. Our new piano in the Assembly Hall is another of Mr. McPhillimy's many gifts. To all these people we give our very heartiest thanks. Not only do we appreciate their material gifts, but their interest is encouraging, and we feel as though they are really our friends.

THE LUCERNIAN.

Original Contributions. CUR TRIP TO THE WARANGA BASIN AND THE GOULBURN WEIR. One beautiful day in Spring, a party of us left Rushworth to visit the Waranga Basin and the Goulburn Weir. We first visited the Basin, which is a very fine sheet of water. The Basin has been built by the Water Commission to conserve water for irrigation and domestic use in Northern Victoria. We then visited the Goulburn Weir. This Weir is a huge concrete wall built across the Goulburn River to raise the water to give it sufficient fall to flow into the Waranga Basin. The water flowing over the Weir is a delightful sight, and the spray, rising high in the air, glistens beautifully in the sun, and the roar of falling water is deafening. After spending a delightful afternoon, we returned home well satisfied with our outing. It is interesting to note that an engraving of the Goulburn Weir can be seen on the back of the Australian ten-shilling note. Ethel Tribolet. — OBSERVATIONS ON TUCKSHOP. One hears leisurely footsteps approaching, a jingle of keys, the click of a lock, and the door of tuckshop is thrown open with a lordly air. The rush which follows is not lordly in character. After the first scramble is over, another being after the style of the first slowly enters, its bespectacled visage and corn-coloured hair buried in a newspaper. It settles itself on the one chair in the room, and puts its feet on the window-sill. Five minutes later a small customer enters, and the two prefects (for that is indeed what these beings are), with an air of boredom, The junior, after look languidly up.

three minutes' deliberation, carefully invests in a silver-stick, presents sixpence, and demands fivepence ha'penny change in pennies. The pennies are inserted in the peanut machine, which resists her efforts to obtain any salted peanuts until one of the prefects strolls along to the resoue. A lull. Then a rush, and in rush the boarders, who have been waiting for the mail. All with one voice demand snowballs, but they are out of stock. All want different things at once, and the full prefect force makes its appearance. The scene becomes very animated. In a few minutes the bell goes. Exeunt all except the prefects.' These noble beings have done a noble day's work, and have earned a night's repose. They also finish the snowballs, which were hidden in the depths of the cupboard. W.K. iC=:x THE TRANSCONTINENTAL RAILWAY. Many people living in the Eastern States, when wishing to visit the West, only think of the long and rough sea voyage, entirely forgetting the Transcontinental railway. This route, finished comparatively recently, has, from Port Augusta to Kalgoorlie a standard gauge of 4ft. 81/2 ins., and traverses in two days a distance of one thousand and fifty miles between the two towns. For four hundred wiles from Port Augusta the only trees to be seen , are in a narrow belt of mulga, oak, and myall, running directly north and south. The only other vegetation in salt and blu•c-bush, growing to a height of about three feet. After we cross a succession of sand hills, the limestone or Nullabor plain Ahead the railway comes into sight. stretches on and on without a curve, and the only sign of life is in hollows where

THE LUCERNIA N.

sand and dust collect, and there the Spring daisies and grass grow, but these soon wither in the summer heat. A granite plateau, thickly covered with eucalypts, is a great. contrast to this barren plain just crossed. Water is obtained by boring, and at Ooldea 70,000 gallons per week are produced in this way. A great many animals and birds, such as dingoes, rabbits, bush turkeys, wild duck, quail, curlew and eagles seem to find enough food and water to live on ; but it is difficult to see where it comes from. Occasionally camels used at an artesian bore come into sight. 'The aboriginals, the only inhabitants of these arid regions, flock to the stations or sidings to gaze with interest at the passengers, and to get money and coloured articles from them. The women are gaily dressed in coloured beads, skirts and ribbons, and the men amuse the passengers by throwing boomerangs and doing unusual things. These people live in tents, spending their time wandering about - waiting for the train on certain days. There are larger stations on the way— Rawlinna, Cook and Tarcoola where the train stops, and passengers visit the stores, relieved to stretch their legs. The train itself has every convenience for comfort. Two of the many carriages are smoking lounges, where all table games are provided, and even pianos and gramophones are not lacking. . • Owing to the perfect construction of the rails, the vibration is very slight, and the food, considering that it cannot be obtained fresh between Kalgoorlie and 13w-t Augusta, is 'exceptionally good: Part of the railway extends through the Western Australian gold fields, which are hot and uninteresting to see without being visited properly ; and Kalgoorlie itself is dusty and untidy, while Port Augusta, small in comparison, is clean and pleasant to visit.

07-;

MEASLES. (Vet-, lii)re). M easles E asily acquired A nd difficult to divest S pots L ingers long E xasperating S pots S pots E xcrescence eruptive L ethiferous lethargy S pots A sthma eclipsed E czema outclassed M easles. Author's Note.—All the characters in the foregoing poem are fictitious. It was a little measle, And he hopped on one of three, "By thy red spot and watering eye, Now wherefore hop'st thou me?" The unlucky one lay in her bed, She cannot choose but lie ; And still stayed on those bright red spots, And still the watery eye. She was like one that had been stunned, And was of sense forlorn, A sadder and a wiser girl, She rose the morrow morn. E.\V. SUITCASES. Have you .ever noticed what interesting personalities suitcases have? There are old suitcases and new suitcases, handsome suitcases and battered suitcases to be seen every day and all day in a school. The old ones are very often the most interesting even though they may not be the most lovable. A great many of our noble Sixth carry their books on their arm, but, personally, -I could not do without my suitcase ; it is so useful, not so much for the carrying of books as for the holding of

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rubbish. You would be surprised to know the amount of paper, old crayons, and odds and ends it is able to hold. N-- bought a new suitcase this term, and it is a loud-voiced thing. The first time N---- opened it in class everyone jumped and stared, and the mistress demanded, "Who is making all that noise?" Its objections to being opened and closed are moderating, however, with its increasing age. P also bought a new one not so long ago. When I saw it for the first time I made rapid calculations to see if it would go in through the form-room door. However, it managed to squeeze through --the doors of ofur school-rooms are fairly wide—and it certainly holds a lot. Her old case had a nasty habit of getting left behind. The handle was loose. P would grasp it, alight from a tram, walk a short distance, and, thinking that her books were very light, would look down, only to find that the most vital part of her carry-all was being borne away in the departed tram. "Globite" suitcases are usually reliable, but have you ever seen anyone trying to open or shut an obstinate one? A case with these characteristics is most annoying, but I prefer such a one to the case which flies open at a critical moment. It always chooses a busy street corner, a crowded tram, or when you are running to catch a bus, and, of course, a perfectly tidy uninteresting case would remain firmly closed at all times. An epidemic • of raindropsis broke out amongst the "Globite" cases last winter. For the benefit of those who are interested in case-physiology I will explain that this disease is caused by exposure to the rain, and makes its appearance in the form of large, light-coloured spots. These spots remain permanent ; they do not endanger the health and usefulness of a case, hut they do mar its beauty. On the whole, suitcases are agreeable and indispensable articles to have, but

occasionally you do come across one which can be well described by those lines on Matilda, a pleasant child, spoilt by one ugly fault :— ``Oh ! how one ugly trick has spoilt The sweetest and the best. Matilda, though a pleasant child, One ugly trick possessed, Which, like a cloud before the skies, Hid all her better qualities." E.W. AT BREAK OF DAY. A gray dim light steals over the sky, Telling that day is here ; The wind comes through the trees with a sigh— Gone is the night so drear. The grass waves silently to and fro, The eastern sky grows brighter, The cows in the meadows begin to low, The jackass shakes with laughter. The wind dies down to a rustling breeze, Singing a song of rest, As it gently fans the quivering leaves, And wakens the birds in their nest. Now over the hill-tops rises the sun, The world awakes with a shout ; Another day's work and another day's fun, And, oh, to be up and about ! Incog. THOUGHTS ON RETURNING TO SCHOOL. I awake in the morning with the feeling of an expected sorrow in store, and, as the mists of sleep clear away, I realize that it is the last day of the holidays, and that to-morrow I shall be in the train, Feeling faint with heading for school. the awful thought, I no longer resist the waves of sleep which are striving to overcome me, and I dream that I am going home for the holidays. But just as I am changing trains at Ballarat, I am awakened by my small brother who presents me

THE

LUCERN T AN.

with the cat, saying that I may "have it all day" if I wish. He also says that he will kiss me if I like, but only once. At breakfast-time lavish attentions are showered upon me all through the meal, and my appetite is not lessened by the thought of the three months of school fare looming ahead. After breakfast I finish an exciting book and put it down with a sigh, saying to myself, "Farewell, friend ; Gardiner's British History will be the next." After that I direct the packing of my extensive hamper, and adjust it to my satisfaction, scorning the aid of the regulation list. Then I methodically search every room in the house for mislaid articles, and deposit them in a heap on my bed. After unpacking and packing one of my cases again; Mother comes in and asks if I have my return ticket. A gasp of terror, and then there follows a frenzied hunt through purses, pockets, and, last of all, through my beautifullypacked suit cases. Finally the square inch of cardboard, which has caused all the trouble, is found lying on top of some old At letters in the waste-paper basket. last the cases are packed, and I breathe a sigh of relief as the final lock snaps. The sigh has not quite spent itself when my small sister arrives with a pile of French books, which I had meant to study during the holidays, but which had been lying neglected all the while on a little table in the sitting room. Finally, I find a space for them ; and with the added weight of three other members of the family the case is at last locked again. Looking for a book to read, I find my health certificate and report in a cupboard. After reading over some of the interesting remarks in the report, and thinking that "they" have added to my unsatisfactory marks, I go to find my Father, taking a pen for him to sign my report and He starts his health certificate with. illegible signature, finds the pen a failure, and sends me to find another. I return in hot haste, thinking that he will be

probing too deeply into my French marks, or my report on botany. I find him buried in "The Argus." After affixing his signature like a lamb, and writing what I dictate for my health certificate (wishing all the time that I had been in contact with any persons suffering from any infectious disease, so that I could be detained at home for several weeks longer) he begins to show signs of becoming interested in the report. Skilfully removing it from the desk, I change the subject, only to run into Mother at the door. After all, the remarks are not as bad as I had dreaded. 'The final one is, "Hum. Well, do better next term." I resolve that I certainly shall do better next term. Having nothing in particular to do, I look round for a book. My brother is deeply immersed in the only one in the house that I have not read. I drop a gentle hint, but it falls on stony ground. Then I say bitterly, "Well, anyway, I will be gone in a few hours." The reply is, "And see that you don't take my best tie back to school by mistake when you go, too !" Completely squashed, and with a guilty conscience, I retire. The hours fly, and I am chased off to bed at a ridiculously early hour, 'as I have a long journey in front of me tomorrow." As if I won't be going to bed early for the next thirteen weeks. However, I fall asleep immediately, and feel as though the time has been all too short when I am pulled out of bed at 1 a.m. to An hour catch the Adelaide express. later I am seated in the moving train, waving farewell to the little group on the fading platform. Boarder. ?===X A PEEP BEHIND THE SCENES ON DRAMATIC NIGHT. Scene—A dressing room in a basement. Time-7.15 p.m., August 17th, 1928. Through an open door one sees flying figures, all in various stages of dress anc

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undress, priding themselves on their calmness, but in reality absolutely radiating a spit it of intense excitement. "Where's my uniform ?" roars the sergeant, and he immediately accuses poor little Ensign Blades, of the apple-cheeks, of taking it. A heated argument follows. Within the dressing room, Miss R. is feverishly tinting Captain Valentine Brown's lily lips. That finished, the cry arises, "Blade's turn next ! Where is the Ensign ?" The Ensign is having a rough time, fighting for his uuiform, so Phoebe comes instead. And what a transformed Phoebe is is who comes tripping daintily along after several minutes of acute discomfort. "What a wondrous change ! 'Tis amazing," cries the gentle Miss Susan. "Where are the safety pins?" "Fanny has them." "Where is Fanny?" 'Having her hair waved." The dashing Captain Brown has been

using his handkerchief somewhat violently. His complexion becomes rather smeared, and looks the worse for wear. A tremulous voice cries feebly, "0, dear ! I feel as though I'm coming to bits. I'm sure my ringlets are coming unput." (When one sees the ringlets at close quarters they look remarkably like the stuffing that comes out of old furniture). Eight o'clock draws near. The Misses Throstle and their visitors, the Misses Turnbull from next door, are seated in Miss Susan's blue-and-white room, waiting for the curtain to rise. Just as the lights in the hall are switched off, and the cut taro gives a jerk, "My glasses ! In the dressing room ! Quickly !" A frenzied rush, then the glasses are found in the owner's hand. A slight lull, and a clear sweet voice, "And so the day passed, and evening came "Quality Street" has begun.

ON THE WALL ALONG THE CART TRACK.

THE T,UCERNIAN.

THE ARCTIC HEROES. Ye brave who poured your blood upon the snow, 0, hear ye me, a poor and feeble one, To sing the praise of heroes who have done A mighty deed that all the world must know. Ye who did leave your homes across the sea, And wandered with this great ideal in mind, To win vast knowledge for your land and kind, "Conquerors of the North" your name must be. Ye struggled on the ice, weary yet steady ; By your leader's side ye stayed, when he, Helpless and injured, could not to you be An active helper, but a burden heavy. These words of mine may seem to you so small, Yet I believe I speak the thoughts of all. L.E. AN EXPLANATION AND A MORAL. Intending once to take my pen and write The inspirations of my mind and soul, Not of my own free will, but forced by the might Of one who oft-times after bell doth toll, Doth set before our eyes a mental feast. So then I searched my brain, to set • apart The loftiest of ideals from the least. I found my wisdom I could not impart, So then I searched to find the reason why My thoughts did not flow on as cool, clear streams. And then the explanation came ! I sigh, I know my mind is yet a child which dreams. The moral of this sonnet you should guess, Do not attempt the great before the less. W.H.

NOTES AND QUERIES FROM THE DOMESTIC SCIENCE KITCHEN. We will welcome any sensible suggestion for a motto for our Cookery Class. Perhaps one of the following would be suitable :—"Exeunt omnes," "Ich dien," "Labor ipse voluptas," "Sauve qui peut," "Nil desperandum," or "Sola via corde hominis per stomacho est." We have often heard it said that "A Stew boiled is a Stew spoiled." We can prove that "Nice icing beaten is nice icing eaten." It is seldom—not more than four out Of five times—that anything is burnt or charred in our oven. If, however, the cakes and biscuits do happen to become more browned than usual, it really does not matter—hungry girls eat burnt biscuits. Why is it that some of the members of the staff seem so 'seedy" on Friday mornings? Why do the boarders lie "all night on a sleepless pillow?" Why do certain girls refuse a second helping at dinner-time on 'Thursdays? These questions have been worrying us for months. Will not someone oblige by revealing to us the cause of these strange, unusual happenings_? We should also welcome any suggestions concerning the following: How to cook cabbage stalks. How to make Helichrysum-de-Luxe. How to make Potage a la Grenonville. How to keep adventurous flies out of milk jugs. How to make sausage meat (we think that the last may be a bit "fishy"),

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GRAND OPERA WITHOUT MUSIC.

his name is Hookums, and that he is penniless, and, also, that he would like some of her money. S.he is charmed with his engaging frankness. But, in the midst of their new-found joy, a sinister shadow looms through the trees. A tall man, with hawk-like, piercing, black eyes, draws upon them. Ah ! alas ! for Marmite ! She is undone. It is Snorta, her affianced husband. A cold and sinister gleam lights his eye as he grabs Hookums by the shoe-lace, and, with a mighty heave, swings him around his head, and hurls him over the tree tops. There is a resounding crash. With a cry, Marmite rushes to Snorta, and implores him to release her from her bond. But he ignores her request, and casts her roughly from him. Then, throwing his head back and elevating his aquiline nose, he proceeds to tell her of the unworthiness of Hookums. After producing conclusive proofs, he convinces her that Hookums is her father's murderer. Horror-struck and dumb with agony, she puts her hand up to her lily-white throat and swoons.

(As it appears to the Unitiated). "GRAND OPERA "MARMITE." A Terrible Tragedy. Dramatis Person : Marmite.—A young, beautiful and alluring girl, possessing much money. Hookums.--The hero—a dashing impulsive and impassioned young cavalier—without money. Snorta.—The villain—handsome in a sinister way. Forceful and wealthy. The Story. This unsurpassed tragic opera opens in the gardens of Marmite's mansion. She owns a vast amount of wealth, to which she succeeded on her father's death. He was foully murdered by an unknown person. One grey and misty morning when his man took in my lord's shaving water, he found the chambers empty, and, tied to the bed post, he found a card attached to a piece of string. The card bore this legend: "If you wish to find the corpse, Snorta picks her up, and his eyes gleam follow this string." The whole household followed the with satisfaction. He carries her to his string . . . . . They found the corpse milk-white steed, which, resplendent in red and gold trappings, is prancing and in the dog-kennel. However, to resume the story. Mar- champing under a weeping-willow. He mite is standing in the moonlit garden, places her on the charger, and is just while the moonlight plays on her glorious about to mount when Hookums appears She is re- with drawn sword. tresses of burnished gold. vealed in a clinging gown of some soft Snorta throws himself on Hookums, material, and her sveldt figure is silhou- and they fight for their very lives. The etted against the shadowy wood behind. moonlight is reflected on their blades as She is singing a sweet song in a rich they sweep to and fro. Snorta presses voice, nice and gurgling, like a brook or Hookums back until he trips over his From the black broken shoe-lace. He falls, and Snorta But, hark ! treacle. shadow comes a young man, with glory, places his sword point on Hookums' He throat. passion and entreaty in his face. rushes to the elfin-like maiden, and flingBut at this critical moment Marmite ing his arms round her legs, kisses her feet with burning lips. She is captivated revives, and with a graceful bound leaps by his beauty, and consents to his pro- to earth. She rushes like a fiend at Hookposals. They will fly together. It ums, and stabs him in the left foot with a troubles her not that he is unknown. It stiletto. He rolls over and dies. She laughs, and falls into Snorta's arms, is enough that they love. He tells her

LUCERNIAN.

They then flee to a high tower, where they hope to hide. They are standing side by side looking over the beauteous country-side when a company of soldiers appear above the parapet. The foremost produces a bugle, and with a flourish pronounces the fact that this is S.norta, the murderer of Marmite's father, and that he shall be hung on a tall tree until he is very dead indeed. Marmite coughs discreetly, and in a flash, she realizes the foul deception practised on her. She rushes on Snorta, and before the soldiers can seize her, she has stabbed him to the heart—with a rusty knitting needle. He dies. She screams, and casts herself over the parapet of the tower on to the rocks beneath. Darkness descends, and there is wailing- and gnashing of teeth. The End.

THE END OF AN IDEAL GARDEN.

Tuesday. At last I've got a garden of my own It was given to me yesterday, and I'm awfully excited about it. I stayed up half the night reading seed catalogues and books on how to prepare the soil. I'm rather worried because different plants seem to need such different soil that I'd need half-a-dozen gardens to fit them all in. I wonder if it'll he as easy to do as it is to read. Wednesday. Plants ought to grow very well in my garden because it's so well situated. There's a hedge at the back to shelter it, and it faces east, so that it gets the morning sunshine. There are a lot of good rose trees already planted, but there is a lot of room in between to put plants in. I've been planning to put small plants round the edges, tall ones at the back, and middling ones on the central parts. 'The ON LEARNING POETRY IN THE trouble is that the flowers I want to plant SUN. The world is still but for the buzzing bees are ready at different times. Thursday. And chirping sparrows in the wattle trees ; I've started to clig the garden over toAnd here I sit, my books upon my knee, day. I think I'll do a third to-day, a In vain I try to learn my poetry. The glorious laughing sunbeams dance third to-morrow, and the rest on Saturday, raking each part over as I go. Then around, The busy ants run swiftly o'er the on Monday I'll start putting in the plants. I've had rather hard work to get the tools ground A soft, cool breeze wafts gently o'er the from the gardener he seems to want to keep them, though he can't use them all bay, The fresh, cool sweetness of this first at once. To-day, I managed fairly well, because he was cutting the lawns and Spring day. My books remain unopened while I write, hedges. I hope it will be as easy to(But, 0 ! the clay is wonderfully bright !), morrow. Friday And 'tis impossible for me to learn, I had such hard work to get the spade, In vain the pages of my book I turn. For \\Tinter 's passed, and Spring has the hoe, the fork and the rake to-day. The gardener was cleaning the drive, and the come again, The fogs have gone, the frosts and driv- beds beside it needed digging, so he had all the tools T wanted, and a wheeling rain ; The glorious sunshine makes the whole barrow, too. \\ - hen he went away to empty the barrow-full of weeds, I took world. gay. The earth rejoices on this bright Spring all of his tools—I wanted the barrow, too, but I couldn't get it—and carried them day. J.S. round to my garden. When I went to

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dinner, I saw him on his knees in the middle of the drive digging up weeds with a trowel, and sweeping them up with a broom. I hid the tools in the hedge when I finished, so that I'll know where to find them. I'll have to get the wheel-barrow to-morrow. I suppose he'll have to take the weeds away in a dust-pan. Poor man ! Saturday. That beast of a gardener rooted all of the tools out of the hedge, and then complained to father, so he had to tell me only to take one at a time, and then to give it back. I took the spade, and I've finished digging the garden all over. Monday. I've planted a lot of plants, and watered them all. If they grow, the garden will be pretty—and they ought to do well because the soil is rich, and there's enough water to be able to give them plenty. The end of the garden that I dug first is rather hard again. I'll have to dig it over again, I think, but I'm still a bit stiff from the first time. Tuesday. The plants look well, though a trifle My back's snail-eaten and frost-bitten. stiff. Monday. I'm sick of digging this confounded garden ! I can dig half of it in a day, and by the time I've dug the second half, the first part wants doing all over again. And the snails ate, all the tops off the plants, and I forgot they were there and dug them all up—and I'll have to get some more and plant them all over again. It They don't get tnough sun, either. hardly tver shines in the morning, and in the afternoon the hedge shades them all. Tuesday. This ground is awfully hard to dig—it gets so dry that big cracks come all ov.ff the place, and they nearly always come where I've planted a plant, and the plant falls down them. And if I water it and

then try to dig it, the earth all sticks to the spade and my shoes, and it won't come off. Somebody says that soil's "decomposed basalt," and if basalt's what they make glue from, I quite agree. Wednesday. That hedge is a nuisance. It takes all the richness and'all the water out of the ground, it keeps the sun off the plants, and its roots grow everywhere. You can't dig without hitting some roots, and I can hardly ever find any tools to dig with. The gardener's a pig. I'm sure he hides them all. The rose trees are a nuisance, too, and so are the snails. Thursday. I've dug this garden for the sixth time in fifteen days, and I'm not going to do it again. At present, it's all in lumps, varying in size from a bird's egg to a basketball, and they're all as hard as cement, and I can't break them up. I doubt if a stone-crusher could. Between snails and gardeners, and the sun and cement and glue, and the hedge and rose trees, nobody could keep a garden, and I'm not going to try any more. L.A.

LIGHT. Silver, silver Is the gleaming ray Upon the bay, Where the silver moon Mounts through the gloom 'Tis silver, silver ; But gold, gold, Pure and bright, In the flooding light, The golden ray, Upon the bay; When the morning sun Touches with gold, With a light that flitters The wave that glitters, 'Tis gold, 'tis gold.

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LUCERNIA N.

multitudes and crowded byways, the factories are at work night and day; but they There is a deplorable lack of apprecia- are not noticeable to one acclimatised. tion among the natives of a certain The factories use smokeless coal, and borough in these southern latitudes re- hide and skin stores, pickle and tomatogarding this important and historical city. sauce factories (for which latter the town For the enlightenment of the aforesaid is universally noted), do not exhale any rustics, I shall deliver a short but comp fe- disagreeable odours like the factories of a hensive discourse on the subject. few southern towns I have experienced. Bendigo is a large and populous city, Its citizens are noted for their beauty, one hundred and seven-eighths miles from physical fitness, and, more than all, their the town of Melbourne. It is possible to great brain power and talents, as is reach the city by the common conveyance proved by the brilliant career of even the of the Government, namely, the railroad humblest of its citizens, who go as miss—the Bendigo lines being the only ones ionaries and examples to the less highlywhich are paying propositions. But most civilized chiefly southern—towns. of its noble citizens prefer the air mail, In short, Bendigo is the . model from although the more nervous section remain which every town or borough which on terra firma and travel a la Rolls Royce. wishes to become great should take its The climate caters for all tastes. In example. It is "The Gate of the Golden summer, a glorious dry heat, with long, North," and "All roads lead to Bendigo" still, shimmering hazes, or a bracing —the "Mecca of the modern world." north wind, loaded with mementoes, reN.H. minding the citizens of the possibilities of Central Australia; whilst in winter, long weeks of torrential downpours which IN THE MOONLIGHT. thoroughly soak the district, accompanied by breezes from southern regions spurrFairies in the moonlight, ing explorers to investigate into the mysDancing until dawn, tery of this unknown region, and theorSwift they take their airy flight ists to devise means of bringing the sun With the breath of morn. nearer it. As the maiden Evening Among the important features of the Spreads her silver pall, city is the sister.of the Zambesi, on which Out they all.come tumbling it is situated, the Lake Weeroona, the Glad to hear her call. hospital, benevolent asylum, beautiful statuary, acres of fine parks and gardens, Here's a group of dancers, and one hundred miles of avenues of Dancing thro' the grass, trees. Green shoes twinkle merrily There is an old saying, 'All roads lead As they gaily pass. to Rome." But the person who thought There are fairy wishing-rings, of this did not know Bendigo, for, in Mystic in the light, truth, "all roads lead to Bendigo." The There on every toadstool sings ancient highways from all the fertile lands An airy fairy sprite. for hundreds of miles around lead to it, Only those who love them, and along them comes the inspiring proOnly those who care, cession of Fords, gigs, cars and lorries, Hear the fairies passing by, sheep, cows, pigs, and all the signs of And know that they are there. wealth. In the city itself, with its teeming C. M. BENDIGO.

THE LUCERNIAN-.

AN INTERESTING EXPERIENCE. The young crops stretch over the flat, treeless plains like a green mantle. All that is left of the mallee scrub is a narrow belt by the roadside. Comfortable, scattered homesteads are passed every few miles, but gradually they become further and further apart till it is almost an event to sec even a moderately-sized cottage ; and how badly in need of rain the country is getting as we pass further north. Soon we seem to •get beyond civilization and in dense mallee scrub, the road, or rather track, twisting in and out with no boundary fence in sight or even existing. Suddenly a little township, consisting of a few houses, a bowser, and a shop, comes into sight, and here we ask the . No one seems to know, road to \V and yet it is within twenty miles. However, a fatherly man, in a rattly Ford, starts off and says, "Follow me, and . you'll get there." So we, being trusting, follow

him, and find, after some distance, that we have lost the man, or rather the Ford bumping over the ground ahead of us. Seeing a solitary wayfarer, we make enquiries and find that we have passed , and decide that it must through W have been a tin shed a short distance from Eventually, after travelling the road. over about thirty miles of the most desolate country at the rate of five or six miles an hour, we arrive, without falling into a . Do you gorge in the road, at R know R ? A Wonderful town. A most promising future ! So we had heard, but how distant was the future? Centuries ahead? True, a most modern hotel is in the course of construction, but it is almost all that meets the eye on entering Being this happy abode of mankind. destitute of all hope by this time, we discover to our joy a corrugated-iron boarding house, where, being hungry and tired, we obtained luxurious - comforts for . the night. M.S.

VIEW FROM A DORMITORY WINDOW.

THE LUCERNI N.

SEARCH FOR THE HONOUR SIXTH. For hours we searched with weary feet And heart o'erful of dole and sorrow. The haunts they used revealed them not, alas! The Library was veiled in solemn quiet. With dragging steps we climbed the endless stairs Which lead into the room where Art is found; Desolate and bare the room appeared before us. What evil chance had happened on their way? With heavy-laden feet and anxious brows We trailed, hi woeful line, downstairs again. With hopes renewed and little: hearts a-flutter, The new and wondrous thought came to our minds, That in the music rooms they might be found. But not a shingled head—no, not a plait, No single member of the Honour Sixth. "Perhaps they're playing tennis," was the cry, "Or throwing goals, or chasing friendly sheep !" But yet evaded they our friendly search. At length, with hearts resigned to hopeless pain, Forlorn we turned, and sadly wandered back To our most dear abode, the SiXth Form Room, And there- a vision splendid met our eyes ! We fell upon our faces and gave thanks, For, seated, calm and cool and swotting hard, With Heath's great Grammar held before their eyes, We saw—ah, no !—it cannot be.—But, ves It is--it was the Honour Sixth. At Work ! Trio.

WIRELESS. Most people now-a-days know a little about wireless, even if it is only that the squeals which one hears when tuning-hi are very trying to the nerves. It is annoying, too, when one is trying to write a French essay, and another member of the family, who is keen on agriculture, is listening-in to "Potato Growing," and when a favourite song is switched off, and the weather forecast is heard in its place. But when a lesson on Physical Culture and Culinary Counsels become mingled, the result is rather unusual and startling. This is what one hears :—"Stand firmly on the right foot, in a basin of salted water. Bend the knee slightly, and balance two cups of flour on the left shoul-. der. Let the right foot fall gently on to the fruit, and swing the rolling pin, first sprinkling it well with flour. Put both feet into a saucepan of warm water, and raise the arms until they are level with the joint to be roasted. Slowly raise the left leg. Breathe in through the nostrils two tablespoons of self-raising flour, half a teaspoon of salt, and one teaspoon of pepper. Stir well with both legs. Beat the left shoulder, add vinegar with both knees. Place the whites of three eggs on the hips, put the left leg into a saucepan of boiling milk, stirring well on the floor. Boil slowly until the mixture sets !" Rae Dio.

OUR CAR, SALLY. (With apologies to Henry Carey). Of all the cars that are so smart, There's none like useful Sally ; She is a car after my heart, And she a load can carry. There is no car in all Geelong That's half as smart as Sally She is the car after my heart. A Chevrolet is Sally. M. Mth.

THE LUCERNIA N. HINTS ON SPORT.

Tennis.

(Coll•ected after many years' experience and a close observance of all games concerned). Baseball. 1. Practise skating. This accomplishment is especially useful if the playingField happ•ens to be slippery, as it so often is when the grass is long and dry, or when the ground is wet. When you are trying to get a run and wish to reach a base quickly, it saves a great deal of breath and effort if you stop running halfway between the two bases, advance one foot, and gracefully—as well as expeditiously—you will reach your goal. 2. Closely connected with the first hint is the art of stopping and of keeping your balance. If you cannot do these, you will in all probability either over-run the base and be caught out, or else you will hurt yourself when you fall over. Of course there is another view of the case. If you do not practise either of these arts, you may still do some good work for your side, by knocking over and incapacitating in some way the girl who is guarding the base. 3.—Another thing to practise is dodging. You cannot always be running. Sooner or later your side is sure to be out, and you will probably have to guard a base. With this in mind, it is a good idea to have some means of avoiding the oncoming girl, especially if she looks fat and is skating. If you happen to be in the way, she will not scruple to collide with you, and perhaps collapse on top of you. Sometimes, too, it becomes necessary to avoid a hard-hit ball, and dodging again becomes the better part of valour. 4.—Try to get hardened so that you are impervious to the extremes of heat and cold. Have you ever noticed that on a cold day you always seem to be standing still, and that on a hot day you always seem to be running?

1. If you do not return a ball as efficiently as you could wish, do not, on any account, blame your partner. Don't say to her, "Oh, I thought you were going to take that, so I didn't have time to get in the right position." It only makes her angry, and endangers your mind unnecessarily. 2.—Before playing net, it is a good idea to find out if your partner's service is soft and comparatively accurate. If this is the case, your position at the net will be safe. If, however, your partner serves hard, and is not too sure where her ball will go, take up your position near the back line. This precaution will avert many unexpected attacks from the rear. (If your partner manages to hit you when you are at the back of the court, it is quite time to stop playing. You will doubtless find that she will be able to cover the whole court, and probably you would only be in her way). 3.—Practise your back-hand hard, as your opponents nearly always play on it —if they can—a lot if it is weak. Often, when endeavouring to take a back-hand, I have hit myself hard with my racquet— I have often hit my partner, too. Have you ever noticed the futile look of a girl who weakly wobbles her racquet when trying to take a back-hand ? 4—Try to perfect yourself in returning tosses. You will probably get enough opportunities, because many opponents have that irritating method of returning every ball, and though it is a weak shot, it is often so wearing that even the best player will lose a stroke to the persistent tosser. Basketball. 1.—Remember that mud can be made use of to disguise yourself so well that the opposing team may mistake you for one of themselves, and throw you many easy catches at critical times. Don't do this too often, though,

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2.—Practise dodging, as in baseball. If again, but just as you are ready for anyou are small, make use of your small- other beam, you glance up and the glare ness ; if you are tall, make use of your of disapprobation has changed to the tallness to get the ball as often as you can. pathetically reproachful look of a misused If anybody is in the way, disregard them animal. You immediately feel like com—they would probably do the same to mitting suicide, and wonder how you could possibly have been happy a moment you in like circumstances. The humour of this 3.—If your opponent gets the ball, before . . . . . hang on to her in some way so that she person is the sort of bad-humour which cannot throw on the ball, and you may could be called silent sadness. It is limited to looks varying in degree from dumb get a free throw. 4.—.If you find yourself out of bounds, anguish to mournful resignation. play on as if you didn't notice, and trust to luck that the umpire doesn't see it. After breakfast you recover slightly, Golf. and by the time you are ready to start 1.—Keep your eye on the ball, the next for the picnic you are thoroughly thawed. green and the person behind you, and you Have you ever been dressed in summer can't go far wrong. clothes ready for an excursion, and your 2.—Any golf-balls found on the links aunt has insisted on being discouraging? may be claimed by the finder, so don't go (She doesn't like picnics because the grass round asking everyone if they have lost such-and-such a ball. They may be un- is sure to be damp, so that she'll catch a scrupulous, and say that they have—and cold, and because you always get insects in your tea. She nevertheless wishes to then you'll have lost a ball. L.A. go so much that she feels it her duty to be pessimistic, and at least attempt to dis1==K hearten the members of the party). She GOOD HUMOUR. says, sadly, "You'd better take coats and Good Humour is a quality which can plenty of rugs. It looks like rain, and best be expressed by contrasting it with you're sure to catch a cold—or even pneubad humour, and thus bringing to light monia. I once knew a girl who went for its value. a picnic, and a week after she was buried. Bad-humoured people can, roughly And take the tea-strainer, too. Why, it speaking, be divided into two classes, one was only the other day I read of a woman of which is too obvious and well-known being poisoned because she didn't strain to need mentioning. The other type is her tea." You feel it your duty to squash also common, but is often known as her and go off—much against your better melancholia, though it might, quite truth- judgment—with no coats, cheerfully sayfully and much more simply, be called ing, "I don't think we'll get rain out of bad-temper. those clouds, the wind will blow them away." You forget that the wind is- comYou feel happy, and justly so, as the ing from the opposite direction and will day is beautiful, the sky cloudless except blow the said clouds up. for a few feathery white ones near the So you come home dripping, but still horizon, and you are going to a picnic. cheerful, and find your aunt at the door— You go down to breakfast beaming, and she has been watching out for you— meet the stony gaze of your great fifth- ready to greet you with a mournful but cousin—who, being an invalid, objects to triumphant "I told you so. You'll probhappiness on principle. You try to forget ably catch the 'flu nowt' and she keeps the look, and gradually become cheerful you standing for a quarter of an hour in a

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rapidly-increasing pool of water, as she increases your chance of a cold to certain influenza, while telling you the duty of young people to their elders. This type of sadness is by no means silent, but you rather wish it was, except there is a certain satisfaction to be gained by arguing, and this, with a silent person, is utterly impossible.

But no ordinary bad-tempered person can be as irritating as an optimist who, though fairly radiating cheerfulness, is too exasperating to be called goodhumoured. The morning after the picnic you have toothache, and come down to breakfast expecting sympathy. You meet the optimist, who gaily slaps you on the back, and says something silly to the effect of "Why so sad, my drooping lily?" You explain the reason, and all the commiseration you get it—"Toothache, eh? Be thankful you haven't got chicken-pox." You leave him, revolted, and retire to ponder over the possible connection between toothache and chicken-pox, thereby gaining a severe headache. You go to bed savagely condemning the unfortunate optimist to all sorts of torture—preferably slow. You finally go to sleep happy, having devised the terrible punishment of shutting thim up with the great fifthcousin and the aunt for a month—if he did not expire before the end of that period. By reading all this, you will see. the value of a really good-humoured person —not of the overbearing type, but tactful--whose main duty is to soothe the unfortunate being whose feathers have been ruffled, as well as the scalp lifted, by badtempered people—not forgetting optimists,

EXTRACTS. (Taken from letters from an English lady in India). We had a few days' rain last week, but since then glorious weather—sunshine, not too hot, and nice, cool breezes. It is just delightful to go for walks in this weather, and, after the rain, everything looks beautiful. All the roads have flowering hedges on either side, you know, and behind them trees and young bamboos. They are all very green now, and the flowers on the hedges are mostly mauve, with here and there a touch of orange. The views from the tableland of the valley are wonderful. The drive from Poona is also through some lovely scenery. The road winds over three ridges of Ghats, up the hills and down again, passing through many little villages. The Ghats are flat-topped and rather bare of vegetation, but at sunrise and sunset the colours are gorgeous. Although the hills are bare, the valleys in between are just a mass of green trees, with here and there splashes of colour, mostly red just now, from the flowering Strange to say, there are many trees. Australian gums among the native trees. The middl•:! of these green patches are the villages. We have had a delightful invitation for Christmas. My husband has been coaching privately a Hindu boy, who looks about eighteen. He is heir presumptive to the throne of Wadhwan, a native state, and he has invited us to the palace. Well, we are at Majeshwar Bagh, Wadhwan City, and are having a royal time. On December 21st the heir apparent had a birthday. He was four years of age, and a Durbar was held at the palace. We were invited to see it. The dresses and jewels were magnificent. There were only men present of course. His Highness and his four brothers, the heir, and a small nephew sat upon a dais. They

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were decked in coats which seemed to be made more of gold than of any material. The jewels were wonderful. Some had ropes of pearls, and others diamonds. In their turbans were jewelled ospreys, with jewelled clasps, and their swords were also jewelled. At the back of their thrones were attendants holding wonderful fans and umbrellas worked all over with gold sequins and bead's. Some of the attendants had beautiful coats of brocaded satin. The representatives of different villages and trades, about two hundred in all, came one by one and paid homage to the heir, presenting some gift, mostly money, but some .gave sweetmeats and cocoanuts. After this there were poems and songs, and the ceremony of garlanding. There were garlands made of real flowers and boquets. The garlands were placed around the necks of the royal family, and they then came over and put them around our necks. This, of course, was a great honour. A few weeks ago we walked over two miles of hard ground, past tiny green crops which are irrigated, to a native village two miles away. When we got there we were objects of interest, for on the frontier of Afghanistan, in native villages, white women are hardly ever seen. The head man came out and begged us to have tea with him. All the buildings were of mud, even the tower We were taken into the for defence. school, where the children were squatting on the floor around three sides of the room. Then I was taken to see the head man's women-folk, Mohammedans, who are kept in purdah. They spoke only Pushten, so I just sat and let them criticise me. By the way that they touched their features I knew that they were discussing mine, and they seemed very intrigued with my shingle. Their own hair was done in numerous plaits. They wore enormous wide trousers taken in at the ankles, a long-sleeved jumper and a veil. The man made the tea outside. Some

pretty young girls took out a tea-set from a locked box, and dusted it with towels. Chickens walked in and out all the time, and in the court-yard were dogs, cows, and more chickens. The furniture conThey had just sisted mostly of beds. four legs, with four pieces of wood connecting them, over which was strung some very strong string. When tea was ready, it was taken to the school. We only had tea to drink, and boiled eggs to eat. After having signed our names in a visitors' book, they took us to see the tomb of a saint, which was built about four hundred years ago. You would be interested to see the camel caravans that go from Peshawar to Cabul, slowly plodding along the road outside the College. There is a special road built for them at the side of the ordinary one, and they often have ponies, mules and cows with them. The drovers are Afghans, and wear the weirdest old clothes imaginable, with patches of any colour and any material sewn on all over the costume. We are told that they go on patching their clothes, and never buy any new ones. The women are provided with a full costume when they are married, and it is supposed to last them all their lives. Some of the men up here look like what I have imagined Abraham and Moses to be.

CHAIRS. Break ! Blacken ! Bruise our cold blue shins, 0 Chairs ! And I would that some creature would carry you To the 'sembly Hall just before prayers. If you want something to look at, Just come to Geelong P.G.C., And see ever) Wednesday morning Chairs carried by poor little me.

THE LUCERNIAN. THE DAILY MORONGOLIAN SIEGE.

We, the permanent inhabitants of the settlement, "Morongo," periodically besieged by wandering tribes, give an account of our life during the past year. Our besiegers are not of the valiant type to which belonged the Turks who besieged Constantinople, but, being unresourceful and needing periods of rest, they harry us five days in the week, and leave (us unmolested for the remaining two days. On two occasions, however, when friendly tribes came to compete with us in sport, our besiegers also attacked on the afternoon of the sixth day. These besieging hordes transport themselves to the portal of our noble city in buses, but our strict by-laws force them t-3 advance from the gate on foot, led . by one of great proportions, possibly another Samson with shorn locks, and one who has the locks but not the massive proportions of Samson. We, ourselves, are led by five noble specimens of the human race. The first, a Saxon fair, with flowing flaxen ringlets, the second is one of the Amazon tribe. Then comes one of dark complexion and Fourthly, one stunted growth of hair. whose microscopic limbs serve as a means by which the proportions of the fifth may be duly appreciated. This latter is our Joe Aaronson. In spite of the siege, our rations are plentiful, except that of coke for the furnaces, the lack of which we do not notice except at 6.15 a.m., and that of chairs, which difficulty is overcome by our ingenious methods of transport. Our usual sources of amusement are varied by Saturday night entertainments, including mystery meetings in the Common Room, when various members of our community are willed to do such things as sitting down, standing up, opening doors, and picking up handkerchiefs and books.

One Saturday, the besiegers being absent, the besieged dared to venture forth to Torquay, a popular watering place on the coast, where they spent an enjoyable day. The oldest and most respected. citizens were invited by a friendly tribe to attend a memorable function held in that noble building, Morrison Hall. The leading lights of our community were the hostesses on another even more memorable occasion some weeks later. Another outstanding occasion was when the entire community eagerly awaited the arrival of a renowned singer from the neighbouring city of Geelong. He did not materialize during the day-time, but later, when all respectable citizens had retired, they heard his melodious voice going into rhapsodies over the inspiring scene of moonlight on the waters. As usual, in connection with a prolonged siege, a ravaging disease, commonly known as 'flu, broke out. Our sovereign employed a host of detectives to scour the vicinity for any illegal coughs, headaches, or sneezes. Rut in spite of this, the dreadful disease pursued its devastating course throughout the city. There have not been many serious accidents—sprained ankles have been fashionable, but the injured ones often forgot which foot they should limp on. Despite all the inconveniences caused by this siege, we have overcome all obstacles put in our path by the besiegers and by the ravages of disease, thus proving ourselves superior to those nomads— the day girls. Burt le Blyt'n. There was a young girl of Morongo, With hair like a native's of Tongo, Her voice like a parrot's-Complexion like carrots— Her tongue could not be any longer.

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A TREASURE HUNT. "Oh, dear ! I wish I could find a treasure," sighed Peggy. "If I found something very valuable we should not have to leave the Manor," And again the little girl sighed, for the Manor had belonged to Peggy's people for hundreds of years, and now they were forced to leave it because Peggy's father had been killed at the War, and that same monster, War, had swallowed up most of the family fortune as well. Ella, Peggy's cousin, laughed when she heard her little cousin's sigh, and told her to hurry up and come to bed. Nevertheless, Peggy could not help thinking of the strange story about a secret passage that Seaton, the gardener, had told her that day, and next morning she went round all the walls of the house, feeling for a secret passage. Just as evening was falling she saw a wisp of something black disappear through a crevice. She ran quickly to the spot, but she found nothing. Again that night she could not sleep, and on the following day she went again to the place, and this time she saw there a brass ring. She pulled it, and part of the wall swung- back. Peggy went through the opening, and suddenly felt herself sinking until she came to earth again on a damp floor. A strange dusky figure lurked in the shadows, and before she could make out its form very distinctly it had given her an old piece of parchment and was gone again. On the parchment Peggy could just read:— The Monarch walked to the carved door, Then took ten paces across the floor. Upon one knee did His Majesty bend, Towards this way your footsteps wend." She looked around, and saw on her left a queer old carved door. Peggy went to the door and gave it a push. It opened,

and she took ten paces into the dull murky light beyond. Then she knelt. She put her hand on the floor, and something moved. Even in the dull light she could see the glitter of precious stones, and, overjoyed, she lifted out the precious box and took it to her mother. Ella did not laugh at her then. Peggy's dream had come true, and the Manor was not sold after all. t

PARODY. (With apologies to Browning). Fear exams? To feel the pain in my head, The pain in my eyes !! With the tests begun, and exams ahead— At six I arise. I open my books, and then I start to swot Until seven-fifteen. And then my poor, aching head, now redhot, On my cold hands I lean The room swims before me—my tired eyes close, Words jump here and there, And the figures change place, jumping now on my nose And now on my hair. No ! I don't fear exams ! Why, I revel in them ! (Yes, that's what I meant !) And of course,, always pass with about-er(ahem !) About ninety per cent ! ( ?) We should all like to see—(I am sure of this fact) Some exam. papers now Next December's Pass Questions, to be quite exact Wouldn't we now?

J. s.

THE LUCERNIA N.

PRINCESS MABELLE. An Original Story.

name is Prince Oscar, my father is King of Austria, and I have come to rescue your daughter from the fairies. When your little girl is eleven years of age I will begin (if you think right) to collect an army, so that they will guard every door and corner of the castle." The King, answering. said, "0, that is a splendid plan. I will give you my daughter's hand in marriage if you succeed." He made a bow, and went off to collect his army. All this time the fairies Were gathering their forces. Three weeks went by, and the King was in his tower expecting Prince Oscar. He saw him in the distance with an immense army. And further north he saw the armed hosts of the fairies. The two armies met in a large field. For a while the fairies seemed to be getting the best of it. The King of the fairies saw that his army was tired of flying, so he ordered them to fight on foot. This gave Prince Oscar's soldiers a better chance, and in the end he won the day. The King of the fairies flew up to the tower where the King was, and said, "You may keep your daughter, for my wife, the Queen, was very wicked, and hid the baby, who was really yours all tl:e time. But please forgive her, for she will never he so wicked again." Years passed till Princess Mabelle was old enough to marry Prince Oscar. The King died, and Prince Oscar and Princess Mabelle ruled the country well, and lived happily ever after. G. Lock.

Once upon a time there lived in a castle a King and Queen who had no children. One day the Queen said to the King, "If only we had a little daughter." Immediately she said it, in flew a little fairy who said, "I will give you a little daughter if you promise to give her to me when she is twelve years old." So the Queen said she would, and the fairy brought the little baby Princess. She grew up to be a lovely little girl ; She had long everybody loved her. brown curls reaching to her waist and brown eyes. Every day her nurse took her for a walk in the park. One day, as she was walking there, a tall man rode rup and said, "Is this King Arthur's castle, and has he a little daughter called Princess Mabelle ?" "Yes," said the nurse, so he thanked her and rode off. After riding for some time, he at last came to the castle, and asked to see the A GLIMPSE OF THE LIFE OF A MERMAID. King. They led him down a long, wide hall, where beautiful ferns were hanging When the sunbeams penetrate the from the ceiling, and there were also tubs, exquisitely carved, with drawings of the glassy green water of the sea, they touch 'a little pearl pendulum which tinkles on King's victories. In these were palms. When he reached the King's throne, he the edge of a crystal bowl. This is the signal for the opening of made a low bow, and said, "I have some important business to do with you. My the anemones, and all the little fish un-

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curl their tails and slip quietly away in search of their first meal.

and their contents, has had a violent attack of indigestion.

By this time the eels are slipping about, tidying the mer-caves after the night current. When the mer-folk arise, they find the circle set, and they pay homage to King Neptune by bowing to his image in the centre. Then slipping into place, they begin the first course of sea grapefruit, which is served on pearl platters. The coral cakes, which are decorated with jelly, are then brought in by the salmon. Breakfast being over, they lie in the cool caverns till the paper-boy comes. The papers are as follows :—"The Early Morning Herring," "The Sea Mews," "The Weekly Sole."

Advertisements. T. Mer's. Coral Flour. On Top. Best Maperary. At Hopfish's. Smoke Sea-Weed Cigarettes. They're the Best. Crush News. The Periwinkle Team won the Bubble Match. Tardy Scholar.

This particular morning the news was very startling. "THE EARLY MORNING HERRING" Shocking Boldness. Mer-world Quite Overcome with Wrath. The flathead footmen of the Queen's household have reported a sad catastrophe at Official Headquarters. The Queen, as usual, was going out for an afternoon drive in her nautilusshell coach, which was drawn by her best pair of sea-horses, when from behind a huge boulder there came a long sinuous arm, followed immediately by many others. They strangled the terrified chargers. The Queen's maids at once clustered round their beloved lady, but they were too late, for the Octopus had already dragged her into his cavern. The maids followed, still carrying the refreshments, which were in weed baskets. The Queen and her maids are still in captivity. A rescue party, headed by Sea Cow, Chief of Police, is being organized. We are glad to hear that the Octopus, after greedily devouring both the baskets

THE BREEZE. The sky was faintly tinged with pink, . and a soft breeze was fanning the flowers. A cluster of tall kangaroo-paws, in their gowns of gold and red and green, lifted their heads and nodded gladly as the breeze rustled past. "Good-morning," whispered some timid and frail spiderorchids, while a sturdy banksia replied in its deep voice, and scowled. The hovia opened their eyes, and lifted their soft purple faces to the breeze as it gently kissed their parched petals. A clump of pink boronia bushes nodded, and the smoke-bush waved its long grey arms. The tall gums opened their white and red flowers, the little gum-nut people began to wake up, and the whole tree began to quiver gently as the tiny people set about preparing their meals. "I am so tired," sighed the white clematis, as it drooped on a gum-tree. "Look at me," shouted the brilliant sarsaparilla as it stretched and twined along the branches. "Dear Wind, how glad we are to see you," murmured the delicate green-hoods, as they raised their faces to its cooling touch. "How sweet," said the wild iris, as the sound of the gentle rustle of leaves and the laughing of a jackass ushered in the cool night. `Wildflower,"

THE LUCERNIA N.

By-the-Way. One of the Juniors says that Miss H has been suffering from "penemonia," another "newmonia." Can anyone verify one or other of these statements? We read that a large motor bin has been invented in Germany, and is invaluable for collecting and containing pieces of paper and rubbish. One of these would b•e very helpful at Morongo. Have you noticed that the bottle in the science cupboard containing Alcohol is labelled "Not to be taken." Surely a needless precaution in a church school ! The Fifth have begun having weekly marks again. The staff say that there is a "marked" improvement in their work. The Morongo sheep are far too inquisitive. Their noses are into everything— even the form-rooms. A large number of valuable roses and creepers have been planted with the intention of beautifying our quadrangle. Unfortunately they do not appreciate being frequently sat upon and infrequently watered, and the haven't crept very much. Will the person or persons knowing the whereabouts of the aluminium used on the outside of the prefects' abandoned little kettle, please forward some, so that the rusty inside may be anointed also ? The following is part of a new girl's impressions of the first Assembly :—"The Captain of Harris House received a silver cup, presented to Morongo by Saint Auguthrie."

What, after all, is wrong with this dissertation on the Four Moods, supplied by a girl in her entrance examination :— "There are four moods—the Loving mood, the Angry mood, the Tender mood, and the Sad mood." A junior girl, asked why the junior forms were not invited to the dance at Geelong College, gave as her reason that "Youth sho'uld consort with youth." Can the Prefects answer the question— "Why was the coffee burnt on the night of the Sports Committee Dance?" Perhaps they might tell a tale of noble selfsacrifice and willingness to serve, with virtue rewarded by a stolen visit from John Brownlee to the kitchen. Who, in the subsequent excitement, would not have burnt the coffee, and what did coffee matter ? One of the sights we always point to with pride at Morongo is a ruined stone wall, mute testimony to the indefatigable spirit and the single-minded devotion to a cause which characterized its builder. Day after day she was a familiar figure, adding stone to stone, re-building often the havoc of a night. The wall was cornpleted.—Time has been its enemy, but even Hadrian's Wall lies crumbling before the might of that dread destroyer ! Wanted, at Morongo, a Wireless Set ! What noble donor will, with one little, little gift, make glad the hearts of boarders and staff alike? Those who witnessed the uncanny silence and rapt interest of the boarders when they listened to John Brownlee's Concert, broadcast by 3AR, could not but feel that therein lay the solution 'for all the wild unrest of youth unoccopied! Batesford — popular Advertisement ! picnic resort for Morongo boarders on Saturday afternoons ! With apologies to Goldsmith— "Sweet Batesford, loveliest village on the road, Where rest and plenty cheer the panting horde."

THE T,UCERNIAN.

In Memory of Margaret Shannon. All our sympathy goes out to Mr. and Mrs. Shannon in the loss of their daughter, Margaret. It has been a great loss to us, too, for Margaret gave her best at all times, both in work and sport. Those of us who knew her realize how she loved her school, and what an interest she took in all its activities, and we appreciate Mrs. Shannon's gift to the school of a cup, to be known as "The Margaret Shannon Cup." This cup was bought with money Margaret herself had left, and is

therefore really a gift from her. It is to be awarded to the House which gains most points at the Annual Sports, and should be an incentive to all the School Houses, and in an especial degree to Margaret's own House—Lawson. A cup like this will associate her with the future of the school, and perpetuate her memory. It will be a tangible reminder of Margaret's influence, her gentle and unselfish personality, and her affection for her school.

Old Collegians' Association. The work of the Association has gone on steadily during the year, and much progress has been made. We are glad that so many of the girls who completed their school days at Morongo last Xmas have joined the Association. At the same time we regret that a number, who have been members for several years, have not been associated with the Old Girls this year, but we hope they will join up next year, because we miss them very much.

and pretty blue curtains made it like a new home for the Kinders, and we should have liked all the Old Girls who contributed so willingly and generously to the Morongo Fund to have been there on the opening day to have seen the transformation they had made possible through their gifts. On June 13th a social evening was held at the Kindergarten. The attendance was not large, but those present enjoyed themselves--cards and games being the order of the evening. Six Old Girls arranged a dance at Corio Club, on Tune 23rd. Miss Pratt, Miss Walker and Mr. and Mrs. Batten were present for part of the evening. It was a very happy dance. On July 5th, Mr. A. E. Anderson gave us one of his interesting lectur•ettes. The ' meeting was at Morongo, so that the present girls should have an opportunity of hearing Mr. Anderson.

The Re-Union, last December, was very successful. Contrary to our usual custom of having it at the school, it was held at the A.B.C., as the transport on such an occasion is a problem. There was the usual High Tea, after which nearly everyone present went on to the Geelong Theatre. The Annual Report and Balance Sheet, which were read at the meeting, showed that 1927 was the most progressive and useful year in the life of the Association, and the President of the A Bridge Evening, to help the MoronAssociation, Mrs. Batten, was responsible go Fund, was held at the Gordon College for much of that progress. Her untiring on July 26th. Mr. G. R. King very kindenergy and enthusiasm were an inspira- ly gave the use of the Davidson Hall for tion to those associated with her. the occasion. It was the most successful During the Christmas holidays the big yet held, and a rich reward to Mrs. Batroom at the Kindergarten was renovated. ten, who had worked so hard to make it A new floor, painted and papered walls, 'a success.

THE LUCERNIAN.

The Old Collegians donated the supper to the dance at Morongo, arranged by the staff, and so were able to help the School Sports Fund. Later on, the Old Collegians gave a dance for the boarders. It was a very cheery dance—everyone appeared to enjoy every minute. On September 21st, a dance arranged by a special committee was held in the Kindergarten, in order to raise money to buy crockery for the Association. By this effort we hope to have our own cups and saucers for our meetings at the Kindergarten. The Dramatic Club is a very alive part of the Association, and is very busily rehearsing for the next performance in November. The members deserve much credit for the interest, time and energy they have put into their work. They, have given electric heaters to the Kindergarten, and the proceeds of their next performance are to be given in some form to the school. The Syllabus for the next three months is as follows :—October, Crazy Whist Evening; November, Tennis Tournament ; December Re-Union. On October 4th, Mr. G. F. Walter will give a lecturette, and w•e hope that the attendance will be worthy of the lecturer. We offer our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Mathews and Vera Reeves, who suffered bereavement during the year. Eathorne Hanlon (Walter) is back again in Australia, and is living in Sydney. Vida has been staying with her for six weeks, and is•home in Geelong again. Gladys Fagg is going to Sydney for a holiday next month. News has come to Geelong that Dorothy Thomas has made a name for herself in the world of singing. At present she is in Paris appearing in Opera, after having triumphed in New York. We ar•e

very proud of Dorothy's attainments, and hope that she will have still greater successes. Eileen Douglass is preparing to go to Sydney for some weeks. ENGAGEMENTS. Congratulations ar•e offered on the following engagements:— Vida Walter to Mr. Harry Fallaw. Beryl Villiers to Mr. H. Smith of Mei.bourne. Mavis Ritchie to Mr. Batty, of Geelong. Doris Zimmer to Mr. Hugh Ross, of Geelong. Will Old Girls who change their addresses please notify the Hon. Secretary at once? We should like to congratulate Mr. L. Hirst on his appointment as Mayor of Newto\vn. Jean McLennan, Hon. Secretary, 77 Aberdeen Street.

Notices. The Editors acknowledge with thanks the arrival of the following magazines from other schools :—"Patchwork" (Presbyterian Ladies' College, Melbourne), "The Pegasus" (Geelong College), "M.A.G." (Ballarat C.E.G.G.S.), "Touchstone" (Clarendon, Ballarat), "Lowther Hall Chronicle" (C.E.G.G.S., •Essendon), "The Penleigh Magazine" (Penleigh, Melbourne), "The Ruytonian" (Ruyton, Melbourne), "The Magazine of the Emily McPherson College of Domestic Economy" (Melbourne). The price of each copy of this issue is 4/- All subscriptions must be sent to the Bursar, P.G.C.