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No, 380. July, 1931. Price Sixpence. Personalia. TUTAJOR-GENERAL Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell, The Dragon Club Dinner held at the United 1V1 Colonel of the Regiment, visited the Services Club on Tuesday, June 16th may, 4th Battalion in camp at Worthing on June we think, be described as a great success. 5th ; the report of the visit will be found on The number attending (59) was something page 233. Sir Arthur was also present during of a record. the month at the reception of the Branches of the Association by the 2nd Battalion at The Executive of " The Senior ” is to be Shorncliffe on the 7th ; the Installation of the congratulated on the arrangements, and all Dean of Canterbury on the 12th ; the Dragon present, we feel sure, much appreciated the Dinner Club on the 16th ; the London Branch consideration shewn to non-members of the meeting on the 20th; and the Wrotham Club in making them Honorary Members, not Picnic on the 28th. only for the evening, but for the following day also. Major-General Sir Guy Bainbridge and Before dinner Brigadier-General McDouall, Captain the Hon. George St. V. Harris were on behalf of the dining members, presented present at the 25th Division Dinner at the to the Colonel of the Regiment a picture Trocadero on June 5th. of an officer of The Buffs in 1792. As he had no opportunity of doing so at the dinner, the Colonel asks us to convey to the dining Colonel I,. Howard Smith was present members his deep gratitude for this very at the Burma Dinner at the Connaught Rooms charming gift. on June 4th. Messages of good wishes and regrets at absence were received from the 1st Battalion ; Major Campbell Johnston has presented to Brigadier-General R. A. Hickson ; Colonels the Museum a most interesting “ Historical Sir Courtenay Vyvyan, Dyne and Sparrow ; Record of The Buffs from 1834 to 1864.” Major Whitaker ; Captains Baird and Keble. “ Printed for Regimental use only and not published.” The following were present:— Major-Generals Sir A. Lynden-Bell, K.C.B., Mr. W. C. N. Chapman, of Heppington, K.C.M.G. (in the Chair), Sir E. G. T. Bainbridge, near Canterbury, has sent a cheque for one K.C.B., J. Kennedy, C.M.G., D.S.O. ; Brigadier- hundred guineas to the Association funds. General R. McDouall, C.B., C.M.G., C.B.E., It is unnecessary to refer in these pages to all D.S.O. ; Colonels H. Findlay, C.B.E., W. H. Mr. Chapman and the late Mrs. Chapman Trevor, D.S.O. ; Lieut.-Colonels J. Crookenden, have done for the Regiment in the past, and D.S.O., R. S. I. Friend, D.S.O., L. C. E. it is impossible to express adequately in writing Knight, D.S.O., Guy Lee, D.S.O., M.C., L. W. our thanks for this more than generous gift. Lucas, D.S.O., M.C., R. Groves Raines, D.S.O., 224 TH £ DRAGON

L. Howard Smith, R. E. Power, D.S.O. ; An account of the great gathering of Buffs, Brevet-I,ieut.-Colonels R. Bright, Hon. P. G. Past and Present, at Shorncliffe on June 7th Scarlett, M.C., A. B. Thomson, M.B.E.; appears on page 247. It is thought that possibly Majors J. F. Whitacre Allen, M.C., H. L. the 800 guests may not be aware of the fact Archer-Houblon, W. H. Booth, D.S.O., O.B.E., that every officer, N.C.O. and man of the R. P. S. Elderton, C. S. Field, O.B.E., C. H. 2nd Battalion paid their share towards the Gregory-Hood, G. F. Hamilton, M.C., H. de R. entertainment. Morgan, D.S.O., H. C. T. Stronge, A. H. In addition to the great hospitality shewn, Tylden-Pattenson, D.S.O. ; Captains B. E. the Benevolent Fund benefitted to the extent Hammond-Davies, M.C., E. Foster Hall, M.C., of £6 2s. Od. from the offertory at the Church P. Green, C. R. B. Knight, H. C. Morley, Parade. T. N. Penlington, R. B. Sandilands, M.C., The following is an extract from 2nd R. M. Watson, R. W. M. Webster, J. R. Willows, Battalion Orders dated June 9th — C. E. Wilson, M.B.E., C. J. Wood; Lieuts. Visit of All Branches Past and Present E. A. Airy, E. P. C. Bruce, D. C. Coates, J. F. Association. Connolly, F. G. Crozier, C. Haggard, H. C. F. Harwood, C. T. Kenward, J. E. King, P. T. G. " The Commanding Officer has received a Lynden-Bell, K. M. C. Mallam, J. G. Nicholson, letter of congratulation from the Colonel of A. J. D. Rose, H. de L,. Walters ; C. E. Reay, the Regiment, of which the following is an Esq. extract:— ‘ I wish, on behalf of the Regiment and Guests of the evening: His Excellency myself, to express our deep gratitude for the the Danish Minister; Colonel Sir Theodore great work you and the 2nd Battalion have Brinckman, Bart., C.B. ; Colonel J. Body, done to-day—a day which will never be for­ D. S.O., O.B.E., T.D. ; Lieut.-Colonel B. S. gotten in the annals of the Regiment.’ ” Collard, T .D .; Brevet-Colonel E. B. Burns, T.D. We also congratulate the 2nd Battalion most The following letter has been received heartily on the highly successful, part they took by the Colonel of the Regiment from the in the Kent County Fair at Mote Park, Maid­ Danish Minister :— stone on June 6th. By general admission 29 Pont Street, the performance of our men was the star turn S.W. of the Fair. This performance was repeated June 17th, 1931. at the re-union of all Branches at Shorncliffe My dear General, on the following day ; an account of it will be found on another page. It is sufficient, I must send you a little word to thanktherefore, to say that the Drums excelled you for the delightful party last night. It themselves and that C.S.M. Emery and his was very interesting to meet so many officers Blenheim Buffs came in for tremendous from The Buffs, whose acquaintance I have applause. The Drumming-out scene was most already previously had the honour of making. effective, thanks in a large measure to the I shall not fail to report about the dinner splendid acting of Pte. Woods, who played to His Majesty, and with many kind regards the part of the unfortunate man who was and repeated thanks I remain. drummed-out; and to end up with, the demonstration of how a Buff leaves the Regi­ Yours sincerely, ment in 1931, though it produced some amuse­ T. AHI,EFEI,DT IyAURVIG. ment, clearly made a deep impression. . Among other Buffs we noticed at the Fair Colonel H. Findlay, Hon. Secretary of the were Major-General Sir Arthur, Lady and Dinner Club, has received a congratulatory Miss Lynden-Bell, Colonel and Mrs. Crookenden, letter from the Colonel of the Regiment, on the Mr. and Mrs. Haggard, Mr. R. F. Parry, Mr. arrangements. Nicholson and Major and Mrs. Kelham. In connexion with the cricket match between We regret that the reproduction of the the Army and Oxford University at Folkestone, photograph of the Dragon Club Dinner is the 2nd Battalion entertained both teams not very good. The original is much better. at dinner on June 22nd. The officers were Copies (price 4/6) can be obtained from Messrs. also " At Home ” during the Folkestone Wallace Heaton, Ltd., 119 New Bond Street, Cricket Week, on Wednesday, June 24th who very kindly sanctioned its reproduction (Kent v. Warwickshire) and Saturday, June in The Dragon. 27th (Kent v. Yorkshire). THB DRAGON '225

Mr. -J.- Bruce of Goudhurst, who has We understand that Lieut. J. G. Atkinson worked so hard endeavouring to obtain for is to join the 1st Battalion early next trooping the Regiment the Latham Medal, has informed season. the Colonel with regret that his efforts have ---25----- ’ been unsuccessful. We hear that Messrs. Bruce and Foster are exchanging battalions and that Mr. H. P. We all owe Mr. Druce a hearty vote of thanks Williams is going in September for a short for all the trouble he has taken. tour with The King’s African Rifles.

We are indebted to Lieut.-Colonel Guy Dee There was a very cheery gathering of for his article “ Big Game Fishing in Jamaica, Buffs in connection with the wedding of and to the Editor of The Fishing Gazette for Miss Julia Helen Williamson and Mr. Geoffrey allowing us to reproduce and the loan of the Friend on June 17th: Besides Colonel and block. Mrs. Lucas, we noticed, among other Buffs, the following :—Major-General Sir Arthur, Lady and Miss Lynden-Bell, Colonel and Mrs. Guy Captain C. R. B. Knight left for India on Lee, Colonel and Mrs. Power, Colonel and June 25th. Mrs. Howard Smith, Colonel and Mrs. Thomson, Mrs. Crookenden, Major George Hamilton, Captain Wood, Mr. Rose, Captain and Mrs. Hearty congratulations to Captain A. W. Willows, Messrs. Coates, Nicholson and Lynden- Andrews on his promotion. Bell, Colonel and Mrs. Friend, Captain and Mrs. Reggie Watson, Captain Sandilands and Mr. “ Jimmie ” Crozier. We are glad to notice that Captain W. A. Featherstone is conducting the Bournemouth Mr. Hugh Borland gave a magnificent Military Band. The old brigade of the 1st display of piccolo playing at the London Battalion will remember him as a magnificent Branch Meeting on June 20th. In spite of first cornet in the famous 1st Battalion Band the passing of years, Mr. Borland was as good which, under the leadership of Mr. Birkhead, as when in 1890 he was acknowledged to be was so popular in India during the nineties the best piccolo player in India. of the last century. This Band contained some remarkable musicians. In addition to The old 1st Battalion Band was strongly- Captain Featherstone there was Pinchin represented at the meeting mentioned above. Edwards, afterwards Bandmaster of The King’s We noticed Shepherd (big drummer), Wittering Shropshire Eight Infantry and Professor at (circular bass), and Hasler (saxophone). Kneller Hall, whose daughter is the wife Amongst others we missed Mr. Birkhead who, of the Sergeant-Major of the St. Lawrence we understand, is unfortunately not very well. College O.T.C., Ramsgate. Then there was Tozer, a .remarkably fine clarinet player who We regret that in " Personalia ” last taught many to play the clarinet, including month, an error occurred in announcing the Brown, now at the War Office. Others in death of Mr. T. Boyles (not Bowles). the Band were Hugh Borland, one of the finest picolo players in the Army ; Wittering, We congratulate Mr. (Nobby) Clarke and a splendid circular bass player ; and Hasler, the London Branch on obtaining for him a who was one of the first saxophone players in permanent appointment in London when he a military band ; and was there ever a better had only been out of work for three days. big drummer than Shepherd ? We have had news of Mr. W. White (late We are delighted to hear that Messrs. 9119 Pte.), who is living at Westgate. Mr. Birkhead, Tozer, Brown, Borland, Wittering, White used to be in “B” and "G” Companies, Hasler and Shepherd are all members of the 2nd Battalion. London Branch and still keeping in close touch with the old Regiment. Another old friend of whom we have news is Mr. J. Osenton (late 7143), who is living at 7 Council Houses, Tadmarton, Banbury. Playing for I Zingari against Canford Mr. Osenton used to play football for the School on‘June 3rd, Mr. C. G. W. Robson made 2nd Battalion in Hong-Kong. He went to 48, the highest score on either side. Against France with the 1st Battalion from Fermoy Sandhurst on the 11th he made 20. and was in Mr. Homan’s company. 226 THE DRAGON

Births, Marriages and Deaths. A Tradition Exploded

B ir t h . Bv Pilcher.—6279333 Dmr. T. Pilcher, H.Q.,” MAJOR P. W. TOMLINSON. a son, Dennis Allan, born at Sandgate, A CURIOUS turn of the wheel brings to London this 12/5/31. summer three regiments very closely connected in the early history of each: the Royal Marines, the Marines, the Buffs and the 61st Foot (2nd Battalion the Gloucestershire Regiment). The first and last- Marriages. named have been taking part in the Royal Tourna­ Friend—W illiam son.—On June 17th, 1931, ment, whilst the Buffs come to Chelsea Barracks in at Holy Trinity, Sloane Street, by^ the August and September, relieving the 1st Scots Guards Rev. C. Cheshire, Geoffrey Francis Friend, who will be on manoeuvres. son of the late Captain G. B. T. Friend, As everyone knows the Royal Marines and the Buffs have very early associations with the City of The Buffs, and of Mrs. B- W. Bucas, Myln- London, having been originally raised from the Trained croft, Frimley Green, to Julia Helen, third Bands, and both have the right to march through the daughter of the late Mr. S. Anstruther City with colours flying, bayonets fixed and band play­ Williamson, of Valparaiso, Chile, and of ing. As early as 1672 the Buffs, then known as the Holland Regiment (they had been fighting for nearly Mrs. Williamson, of The Manor House, 100 years in Holland, and were so styled when brought Godaiming, Surrey. on the British establishment in 1665) were authorized Ter nan—B aines.—On June 13th, 1931, at by Charles II " from time to time...... by beats of Drums “ to raise volontiers (in lieu of soldiers that they send St. Augustine’s, Queensgate, by the Rev. “ to sea) for the recruiting of their companies. C. R. Deakin, Henry Augustus Breffney " Provided that...... they (first) show this our Warrant Ternan, Major, late The Buffs, son of the “ for the same to our Mayor of our Citty of London...... ’’ late Bieut.-Colonel H. Ternan, to Dorothea, The pretensions of the 2nd Gloucestershire to the daughter of the late Mr. W. N. Baines, of same right would be based, if ever put forward, on the Yeovil, Somerset, and Mrs. Baines. fact that, before it was constituted in 1758 the 61st Foot, it had been for two years the 2nd Battalion Wheeler—Reeve.—6282368 Cpl. Wheeler, "C,” of the Buffs and has never since completely forgotten married at Elham, 23/5/31, to Honoria the fact. It was permitted, on becoming the 61st Christina Reeve. Foot, to retain its buff facings and wore them until 1881, and one of its most honoured possessions to-day is a regimental colour of buff silk presented in 1864. As the 2nd Gloucestershire was appearing at the Royal D eaths. Tournament in the dress worn in 1758, one may assume E dw ards.—On June 1st, 1931, as the result this to be exactly the same as had been worn a few days before as the 2nd Buffs, with the difference, one of a road accident at Twickenham, Middle­ supposes, of new badges and perhaps buttons. sex, Mary Ann Bouisa Edwards (nee Borland), widow of the late No. 771 Sgt. That relationship is easy; it was a younger sister (nearly 200 years younger) securing an establishment E. P. Edwards, later Bandmaster King’s of her own; changing her name, but still preserving Shropshire Bight Infantry and Royal Ulster a family likeness and the family complexion. Rifles, in her 67th year. The connection between the Royal Marines and the Potter.—At Shanghai, on May 21st, 1931, Buffs is much more difficult to define, because, apart H. E. Potter, late Cpl. 2nd Battalion The from the fact that both trace their descent to the Trained Bands of London, none exists. The question Buffs, aged 46 years. however cannot be so peremptorily dismissed, because, for many years there has been a tradition, which persists to-day, that the Royal Marines are descended A Tradition Exploded—continued. from the Buffs and both regiments have taken great the Duke of York came to the throne as J ames II. he pride in the thought. Tradition, especially in the bestowed the command of his (Maritime) regiment Services, are not easily exploded. The facts are as on his son-in-law. Prince George, husband of the follows: when the remnants of the army in Holland Princess Anne, afterwards Queen of England. returned to England in 1665, on the outbreak of war In 1689, for a reason which has never become with the Dutch, and were constituted the Holland apparent, the Admirall’s Regiment was suddenly Regiment by King Charles II, there were already disbanded when under orders for Holland, and Prince three regiments on the establishment. The Holland George was given the honorary colonelcy of the next Regiment, therefore, took its place as fourth in order regiment in order of precedence (the Holland Regiment) of precedence and this order remained unchanged for which automatically became the third regiment of the next twenty-four years. It was a convenient, foot, dropping, at the same time, its title of Holland indeed an obvious arrangement, but one which has Regiment for that of Prince George, Hereditary Prince tended to obscure the fact that the Buffs is the oldest of Denmark’s Regiment. regiment of the line. Consequently, within a few days, there existed on The regiment third in order of precedence was the establishment two regiments, both having the same known as the Duke of York and Albany’s Maritime order of precedence, the same official designation and Regiment of Foot (the Lord High Admirall's Regiment), the same colonel, yet having no connection whatever or more commonly The Admirall's Regiment, the Duke in any other sense. of York being Lord High Admirall. When, iii 1685, THE DRAGON 227 228 THE DRAGON Memories of an Old Buff. The Yosemite Valley. After spending some time on the property I reached rTHE great gold rush in California was in 1849, and San Francisco and was able there to obtain the services all the world went mad, with the lust for gold. of a first-rate lawyer, and with his help and by making Men who had spent their lives on an office stool, had a considerable sacrifice, financially was able to sell my never had a pick in their hand, most of the scallywags interest in the property, right out, with the result that in the world, of every nationality—honest men, crooks, I found myself with rather more than three weeks to young and old, rich and poor, rushed in one never- spare, and made up my mind to try and visit the ending procession, into the Nevada Mountains, to look Yosemite Valley, which was not very far away. for gold, and many never returned, but lost their lives, I took a ticket from San Francisco to Richmond, some from starvation and exposure and others again the nearest town on the Railway which was a distance were murdered, for these were days when men found it of about 87 miles from the Valley, and was there in­ wise, if successful, to keep their secrets to themselves, formed by the tourist Company’s Agent that all tourist and not to trust even their best friend—for, say what traffic had ceased for the year as the valley was closed you like, the lust after gold is responsible for much for the Winter, and that snow might be expected at misery in this world, and rarely brings happiness to any moment. those who get it though they perhaps would be the last However, after a little trouble, I found an old to admit this. trapper, who knew the country well, and had a buck- There was one part of the gold fields that all along board (a kind of light wagon) and two wiry mustangs, had a specially bad reputation for men were found and who was willing, for a reasonable consideration, dead, time after time, on the mountain side, with a to take me there. So without more ado we started off, poisoned arrow sticking in their heart, and how they but arranged to make a detour, as I wanted to see the met their death ’ was. wrapt in unpenetrable mystery, wonderful big trees, in the Mariposa Grove, as well. until one day a party of prospectors stumbled, quite To anyone, especially if they have any knowledge by accident, on a hidden valley, buried in the heart of forestry, I would strongly recommend them, if of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where a small tribe of possible, when in that part of the world, not on any Indians had dwelt in safe retreat from their enemies account, to miss seeing these' trees, for I have no for generations, and it was discovered that in their hesitation in saying that they are far the most wonder­ dread that their hiding-place would be discovered ful I have ever seen. they had not hesitated to kill any white man that came They are called ” the Sequoia Gigantica.” There within a certain range of it. This hidden valley was are no reliable records as to their age, but according to known by the Indian name of " the Yosemite,” which Indian legends they must be, at least, 800 years old. is their name for a grizzly bear, and the origin of the It is a great pity that most of the finest specimens were name is explained in the following legend. burnt several times, in forest fires before the Govern­ A young Indian brave, one of the tribe who lived ment took charge of them, but the most curious thing in this valley, went down to the mirror lake one day, is, that though in many the heart has been almost to bathe, and hearing a noise behind him, turned and completely burnt out—so long as the thick spongy found a huge grizzly bear. He had only just time to bark and inner skin remain, they seem to find no close with him, for he was unarmed, and grip him by difficulty in living. Though their height and girth are the throat. The fight was long and bloody, but he kept stupendous, as I am writing entirely from memory and his grip on the beast’s throat, to the end and when have long ago lost my notes, I am unable to recall, his sweetheart came to look for him, she found the man at this distance of time, the actual figures ! and the bear still locked together in death, and with one You will most of you, however, have seen the long despairing cry, she threw herself into the lake’, advertisement of the Californian wines, where a coach and from that time the valley was henceforth known and four is shown driving through a hole in a tree. This to the Indians as the " Yosemite ” Valley. advertisement is absolutely true to life, for I have When this valley had been discovered by white driven through the hole myself. men, the Indians—after years of stubborn gorilla In the case of another of these trees it had been warfare—were finally exterminated—and now, during entirely burnt out and though still living—eight the summer months, it is mainly known as a place of mounted men could assemble inside it, and a third is resort for tourists. known as the " telescope ” tree, which has had the Somewhere or other I had read the history of this whole of its heart, up to the top, burnt out, and standing valley, as in those days, it was considered one of the inside and working up, you can see the sky, and even in seven wonders of the world—so in 1901, whilst I was the middle of the day the stars are visible. serving in the Regiment, I received a very disturbing There are many other forest giants in the grove, letter, from a friend in California, telling me that the all of the same species, and I have been told that there Agent for a small fruit farm, in which I had inherited is a house in hondon where there is a section of one of an interest—had gone off, with two years rent, and it these trees, cut through, nine feet from the ground, was absolutely necessary that I should come out and with a wonderful grain, and in which the wood, when see to it at once as there was a possibility of its being polished, is a rich red mahogany colour, like cedar, seized and sold summarily by the Government in pay­ and that 26 people can sit at dinner at the table. ment of arrears of taxes. It is also a strange fact that when I lived at Ascot As, however, I was serving on a home station, it there was " A sequoia Gigantica” growing in the grounds was out of the question, in an ordinary way, for me to which I recognized at once. As far as I could ascertain obtain more than two months’ leave, which, in particulars, the house had originally been built some all probability, would be insufficient. sixty years ago and the man who built it, and laid out However, I conceived the idea of creating a pre­ the grounds, was a recognized authority on forestry. cedent and getting another two months as well, on the The curious thing was, however, that my seedsmen told understanding that I obtained the services of a Militia me that it must have been grown from seed specially officer to act as my substitute during my absence. sent by some private individual as it would, at that It was rather a forlorn hope as the War Office are time, have been unobtainable in any other way. It not fond, as a rule, of creating precedents, but my was from 60 to 70 feet high, so if these surmises are Commanding Officer recommended my application correct, it is only a normal grower. In appearance, so well that, to my surprise, my proposal was it is not altogether unlike the “ Wellingtonia ” and has sanctioned and I started off on four months' leave, several of the same characteristics! to California^ (To be continued). THE DRAGON 229 Records of other Regiments.

THE MIDDLESEX REGIMENT. (THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE’S OWN).

B a t t l e H o n o u r s . many a Maori stockade was attacked to the inspiring Borne on the Regimental Colour :—“ Mysore.” cry of " Come on, The Die-Hards ! ” The honour of " Seringapatam,” " Albuhera,” “ Cuidad Rodrigo,” Albuhera was won by the 57th, but its memory served " Badajoz,” “ Vittoria,” ” Pyrenees,” “ Nivelle,” to inspire the 77th at Spion Cop, when 2nd-Lieutenant “ Nive,” " Peninsula,” “ Alma,” “ Inkerman,” Bickneil, shouting " Come on, The Die-Hards ! ” led "Sevastopol,” "New Zealand,” "South Africa, his men to recapture a lost trench. Describing their 1S79,” “ Relief of Ladysmith,” " South Africa, work at Spion Cop, General Sir Redvers Buller said, 1900/1902.” “ The Middlesex Regiment magnificently upheld the best traditions of the British Army throughout a long Borne on the King’s Colour :—" Mons,” " Marne, 1914,” and trying day.” They certainly did—and it was “ Ypres, 1915, ’17, ’18,” "A lb e rt, 1916, ’18,” the memory of another long and trying day on the " Bazentin,” " Cambrai, 1917, ’18,” “ Hindenburg hillside at Albuhera which helped The Middlesex to Line,” “ Suvla,” “ Jerusalem,” " Mesopotamia, hold their own on the bullet-swept slopes of Spion Cop, 1917, ’18.” * * * * as it did afterwards in the Great War. " There’s a grand and moving story of The Die-Hards’ The last words of 2nd-Lieutenant Rupert Price golden glory. I-Iallowes, V.C., M.C., 4th Battalion Middlesex Won by strength and steel on Albuhera’s plain ; Regiment, as he lay mortally wounded at Hooge, 30th And The Die-Hards' grit and sinew shall to-day the tale September, 1915, should never be forgotten—" Men, continue. we can only die once,” he said," If we have to die, let And their history shall repeat itself again.” us die like men—like Die-Hards ! ” It was in accordance with this fine tradition that the War Diary * * * * of the 2nd Battalion should record how, when engaged There is no more honourable nickname than that in the defence of the Somme crossings in March, 1918, proudly borne by The Middlesex Regiment—“ The " Eleven platoons in all perished in accordance with Die Hards ”—and the history of the regiment is filled the order of no retirement and resistance at all costs. with incidents which prove how great is the value of Not once had an officer to reprimand a man. The esprit-de-corps, and of a strong, virile regimental fighting spirit was as high on the tenth day as on the tradition, as an inspiration to soldiers in their hour of first.” trial. At Albuhera, " the most honourable of all Peninsular Albuhera Day was always observed as a " red blazons on a regimental flag,” the 57th (now 1st letter day ” by every battalion of The Middlesex Battalion Middlesex Regiment) covered themselves Regiment, wherever serving, during the war. At with glory, winning at once the first Battle Honour to dinner on Albuhera Night each year, the officers of adorn their Colours, the laurel wreath which encircles the regiment drink " To the memory of those who their regimental badge, and the nickname which they fought and fell at Albuhera.” The silver cup, used have made famous all the world over. The dawn of once a 3’ear, for this purpose only, by the 1st Battalion Albuhera Day saw the 57th parade with 25 officers and is called " The Albuhera Cup.” Incorporated in the 570 other ranks ; before dusk 22 of the officers had design of this cup is a Peninsular War Medal with five fallen, together with 425 of the rank and file. All day clasps, which was awarded to Private I-Ienry Holloway, long they held the ridge of Albuhera, alternately 57th Foot, the last survivor of the men who held the scourged by the enemy’s fire and attacked by a massed ridge at Albuhera. Shortly before his death he said column out-numbering them by four to one. Colonel that this medal was the only thing on earth he valued, Inglis, their commanding officer, was severely wounded, and he wished to becpieath it to his old corps, " The but refused to be removed to the rear. All day long Die-Hards." The regiment possesses another highly- he lay where he had fallen, in front of the Colours, prized relic in “ The Albuhera Snuff Box,” made from inspiring his men with the words " Die hard, 57th, the silver breastplates of the officers of the 57th who die hard ! ” The Colours were shot to ribbons, and two fell at Albuhera. Ensigns were killed while holding them aloft. Despite Two of the heroes of Albuhera ridge found a last its heavy casualties, the regiment never yielded a foot resting-place in the County of Kent, for Lieutenant- of ground, and wras about to take part in the final General Sir William Inglis, the Colonel who coined the advance when General Beresford called out “ Stop ! phrase " Die Hard,” died at Ramsgate in 1835 and Stop, the 57th ! It would be a sin to let them go on ! ” was buried in the Chapter Ilouse of Canterbury The memory of that great day has remained as a beacon Cathedral, while Field Marshal Viscount Hardinge of light to the regiment ever since. Penshurst, who had distinguished himself as a staff At Inkerman, over forty years later, we find the officer at. Albuhera and was afterwards Colonel of the 57th, under Captains Stanley and Inglis (son of the 57th, is buried at St. Peter's Church, Fordcotnbe. Colonel who originated the nickname) charging to the It is said that when this officer was offered the Colonelcy call of “ Remember Albuhera ! ” In the next decade of a Guards’ regiment, he declined it, saying " The 230 THE DRAGON

57th. is good enough for me. I would rather be Colonel Counties) ever since its formation. The l/4th Buffs of the Die-Hards than of any other regiment in the had four companies of the l/9th Middlesex as ship­ sendee.” mates aboard the P. and O. liner Dongola on the voyage The history of The Die-Hards presents one feature to India in 1914. which makes it of more than usual interest to The To the great regret of all who knew their record, Buffs; that is, the frequency with which the two the 3rd and 4th (Regular) battalions of The Middlesex regiments have been closely associated with each other Regiment were disbanded in 1922. on active service. When the 57th Foot was formed in January, 1756, Ninety-nine Battle Honours and eleven Victoria The Buffs provided two nucleus companies, each thirty Crosses have been granted to the Regiment, of which strong, as a cadre of trained soldiers for the new His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales is Colonel- regiment. Both regiments were engaged in the in-Chief. American War of Independence; in the Duke of R. Maurice H ill. York’s campaigns in Flanders, 1793/4; they were together in the Peninsular War, in the North American campaign of 1814/15, and. with the Army of Occupation in France after Waterloo (a Battle Honour which both missed through being at sea, on their way back from Canada, when it was fought). In Canada The Buffs Matters of Interest. were under the command of Major-General Sir Manley Power, after whom the Regimental March of the 2nd AT Dover recently I met a cheery old sailor, Mr. Battalion Middlesex Regiment is called. (This B. W. Beech, who was busy at his usual march is now used by both Battalions). The 57th occupation, giving a helping hand where it was needed, formed part of the column which relieved Btschowe by lending his eyes to a blind ex-Gordon Highlander (held by The Buffs) during the Zulu War of 1879. In and the brother of a Buff. 1927 when the 1st Middlesex went to China with the Shanghai. Defence Force they took with them several We swapped yarns and he told me one of the past Section “A” Reservists of The Buffs. history of The Buffs which, although it has been mentioned in The Dragon before, there is always some­ The 2nd Battalion Middlesex Regiment was raised thing fresh in a personal narrative, so I give Mr. Beech's in 1787 for service in the Bast Indies. They also gained yarn in his own words. honour in the Peninsular War. At El Bodon their steadiness in the face of an attack by a mass of French “ In the latter part of 1876 I was serving as a boy on cavalry on open ground was described by the Duke of H.M.S. Spartan at Cape Town. The ship was over­ Wellington as “ a memorable example of what can be hauling and refitting after a lengthy cruise (for that effected by steadiness, courage, and discipline,” and time) 63 days from Madeira. Half the crew was the Iron Duke, who was usually so sparing of praise, ashore enjoying the usual leave when our flagship, went further and “ recommended the conduct of these H.M.S. Active, signalled that we were to prepare for troops to the particular attention of the officers and sea at once. I, as a boy, was very excited at the news— soldiers of the army, as an example to be followed in that the Transport, St. Laurence was wrecked at Cape all. such circumstances,” Paternoster, 120 miles away, with the 3rd Buffs and their Women and Children aboard. How we worked, At the beginning;of the Great War The Middlesex provisioning ship, getting sails on board, engines to Regiment consisted of four Regular, two Special Reserve pieces and readjusting same. Police pickets sent and four Territorial battalions. The 1st and 4th ashore to round up crew. We were ready in twelve Battalions, were soon under fire at Mons and Be Cateau ; hours after the order and one outstanding item I indeed, the 1st are said to have been the first British remember was that not a soul was adrift when we infantry battalion to land in France. The 2nd sailed. Battalion came home from Malta and went to France in November, 1914, whither the 3rd Battalion (from India) In the meantime the flagship had sailed and, soon followed them: The 3rd Middlesex were brigaded arriving at the spot first, rescued the women and with the 2nd Buffs (85th Infantry Brigade, 28th children. Division). The 7th Middlesex, one of the few Territorial units which had undertaken the Imperial Bn route we prepared cots, etc., for any emergency Service obligation before the war, left for Gibraltar in and on arriving at Cape Paternoster we had to anchor September, 1914 and spent five months in garrison our boats some distance from the shore and wade there before joining the B.E.F. in France. through the surf carrying everything to and fro on oUr heads ; in spite of the hard work the ship was quickly , Before the war finished, The Middlesex Regiment loaded, concluding our first trip. had increased to forty-six battalions, twenty-six of them on active service. The “ Cease Fire ” at 11 a.m. After the second trip, when we arrived at the Cape, on 11th November, 1918 found the 2nd Middlesex it blew so hard that we had to lay with three anchors some three-and-three-quarter miles N.N.E. of Mons, down, steaming all the time at full speed into the wind rHE d r a g o n

It was our custom io be on the beach at Soma's hut Just as dawn was breaking Soma, now alert, was by 3 a.m. on Sunday mornings, which would be about to be seen pointing excitedly in the direction of the two to three hours before daybreak. An early start shore, calling o u t: ‘‘ Took, look, tarpon he spin Sah.” was necessary, as it was essential to be in position on Sure enough, there was a circle just visible where-a our hunting ground before dawn, and it took well over large fish had broken the surface of the water some 50 ah hour and a half to paddle across the bay. These yards from the canoe. H. drew in his live bait,, and few hours just before dawn were usually so still and cast gently in the direction of the fish. After a few peaceful that our small impromptu sail was of no moments the cork flpat bobbed, and moved, slbwly assistance/ ' V at first, then rapidly disappeared. He paused; /then Although blank days were, of course, to be expected, struck hard : he was into him—off rushed the mighty they were the exception;rather than the rule,, and it fish jumping thrice into the air, a scream of the reel and was seldom th a t, we returned empty-handed. Even gone for ever ! What a beauty I Surely 100 lb. or when, the tarpon, was not met with there was always more ? the chance of coming across other varieties, such as Crestfallen certainly, but buoyed with fresh hope, shark., sting ray, leopard ray, snook, snapper, etc. we settled down to it again.- A few moments later the Of many good days’ sport one stands out m my slack line of my rod coiled on bottom of the canoe, memory in golden letters. It was a glorious early was being drawn out, slowly at first, then in rapid mom, the sky glitterihg with the brilliancy of the jerks—a pause—then, striking hard, with all my stars and the faint crescent of a new moon. Not a strength, I had him ! But what ? No fish to be seen, ripple on the waters, only the reflection of stars arid but a rush of line being taken, 30, 50, 80 yds. before moon from above; not a sound to be heard except Soma had a chance of slipping the rope and unmooring. the hoarse croaking of the swamp frogs in the distance Now we were off, being towed by some huge mobster and the occasional splash of a bifd diver after tarpon which had not shown at all. Half an hour passed when fry. Nature seemed to be at peace with the world: H. said it must be a large ray, as it was not lively enough for a shark or tarpon. After an hour’s hauling It was 3 h.m. : Soma—having already loaded and straining it began to ease and incline to come to our dugout with.1 rods,, tackle, bait, ice, various other the surface, a glimpse of broken water, the slashing of impedimenta, all of which was most necessary for the a long tail, and the ugly brute came up. still fighting when success of our venture—pushed us off over the sand he was gaffed. Slowly, and with every , chance of into the shallow water, and sprang nimbly into the capsizing^ we towed him ashore. A sting ray, 180 stem of the dugout. Off at last all feeling in good fettle lb., with a 7 ft. tail, seven feet of danger, for it is here because for once the fates were kind, and everything that he carries the two stings. The term sting is mis­ seemed propitious for the coming of a great fishing leading, as it is more in the form of a flat sharp spike morn. some 12 ins. long, with a quantity of small barbs on The spell was on us, and we sat smoking, our pipes, each side. . Should one of the " stings," by chance, speaking occasionally in subdued tones, whilst Soma penetrate your flesh it would be impossible to pull it paddled us silently across the bay. It was now 4.15 out against these barbs. a.m. ; we had moored the canoe to the bamboo pole which was always taken with us for that purpose, and It was now morning, and the sun beginning to warm driven into the sand near the mouth of the Rio Cobre the air, we launched the dugout and set off once more. about 400 yds. from the shore. The depth here was This time we tied up in one of the narrow chaflnels some 8 to 9 ft. H. preferred to use live bait, whilst beneath the shade of the mangrove bushes. §>ome I mounted a good-sized dead bait on the bottom. twenty minutes passed before H. suddenly had a good The best is a silver mullet about 1 lb., alive or dead. " run.” A tarpon well hooked this time, jumping 6 ft. If used as dead bait, the head should be cut off slant­ clear into the air, shaking his head to get free, and we wise and the hook threaded through the body by means were after him. What a run ! What a glorious sight of a threading needle, passing out through the vent to see this monster leaping high into the air, his golden leaving the hook embedded in the flesh. We found body glistening in the sun ; the canoe rushing through that a large cork from a fisherman’s net made an the water. What a thrill! At the end of a glorious excellent float. Our rods were about 6 ft., in one fight lasting 58 minutes he came to gaff, a beauty of piece ; some prefer the two-jointed rod with the butt 61 lb. We were hot and thirsty now and a christening fixing into a handgrip. We each carried 300 yds. of was indicated. Beer, glorious beer, out of the ice undressed line on our reels. I used a Hardy Fortuna sack, mixed up with the dead bait, but none the less reel, whilst H. favoured an American reel with ball welcome! bearings, more elaborate but in no wise better. In the My turn came next. A snook of 29 lb., lively and canoe we carried two large gaffs and a revolver, the game, but not so large as to necessitate unmooring latter to be used only in an emergency against shark. the canoe. He ran out 120 yds. of line before I got on I quite realise that some people may think the use of terms with him and enabled H. to slip the gaff into him a revolver savoured of butchery rather than sport, and haul him into the boat. but I must point out that wre had to take considerable By this time the channel had become disturbed, risk as it was, when our frail cockle shell of a dugout so we paddled back to the mouth of the river Where was being towed by some monster at will. we had commenced. The sun was now high iff the When after tarpon we did not. want shark, but sky and the glare on the water trying to the eyes. A * occasionally the shark thought otherwise and off he fresh sea breeze made it bearable, however. H. had would rush, as soon as the dugout was unmoored, and now elected to use dead bait, and fish on the bottom we could only sit tight and hang on with might and for a change. Oiir luck was still in. A mighty rush, main, being-towed through the water at an amazing hardly time to strike with all strength, and H. was pace, entirely at his mercy for an hour or two. The into the.^king of tarpon. Off we went once more; he coup de gras or, I should say, coup de mer, was a chief towing us. Out of the water he jumped several feet aim. He is a cruel brute, and one does not want to take into the air, twice, thrice, four times in succession, undue risk or prolong the fight more than necessary. always shaking his head for freedom. A blaze of If you have ever gazed into those cruel little pig eyes, gold and silver, the sea water glistening like diamonds and huge underhung jaw, sailing along within a few feet in the sun. Always rushing, never stopping, until, of a dugout canoe, you can then understand the at last, after eighty minutes’ hard battle, he became tired necessity for the revolver ! and more tired : now alongside and within reach of THE DRACtON 233

A Visit to the 4th Battalion Camp near Worthing. T VISITED the 4th Battalion at Myrtie Grove Camp, about four miles north of Worthing, on the 5th of June and was fortunate enough to be accompanied by' Colonel Burns. Incidentally, one of the things which struck me very- much during my visit was the obvious delight of all ranks at seeing their old C.O. again. The camp is very' pleasantly situated at the foot of the Downs and everyone seemed well satisfied with it. We found there, in addition to our own people, the 4th Battalion Royal West Kent Regiment, under its new C.O., Colonel Hancock who has as Adjutant, Captain Howlett, the well-known Kent fast bowler and also Colonel Crossman, the Commander of the 133rd Brigade with his Brigade Major—Captain Wood of our Regiment. The various companies of the 4th Battalion were out in their train­ ing areas when we arrived—and as time was getting on it was decided that I should inspect the lines and then meet the battalion returning to Camp. I pro­ ceeded to the lines accompanied by Colonel Burns, Colonel Collard and his staff and my orderly—a particularly smart lad called Mathews, from Hawk- hurst. It seemed, by the way, to be rather a day out for the Weald Company for I found that the Quarter Guard consisted of a very fine lot of fellows from the r Weald, under Sergeant Reynolds. The inspection of the Dines showed everything the gaff. I managed to hold him with the gaff whilst in perfect order and a state of cleanliness which left Soma and H. hauled him over the side, into the bottom nothing to be desired. The kits were all placed, of the canoe. There was no room for anyone else ! accurately dressed, outside the tents with one exception, We killed him, kissed him, and christened him—then where I noticed that one or two kits were not exactly turned homewards, proud, happy and very tired. in line. When I remarked on this—some wit said, He turned the scale at 84 lb. of piscine beauty ! “ Well, Sir, this company lives near the sea so it is not Our adventures were not yet over. The breeze surprising that the line is a bit ' wavey ’ in places.” had stiffened and the sea was distinctly choppy. It was a perilous journey across that bay. Waves were We then went to meet the battalion coming home. washing over the gunwale most of the time, and owing I have seen the battalion on the march many times, to some 180 lb. weight of fish in the canoe we were very- but I have never seen them march better. They had low in the water. However, by' dint of Soma’s sea­ to move over uneven ground and through rough grass, manship and hard baling by- H. and myself, we managed but they looked splendid and marched magnificently, to make the shore with nothing worse than a good headed by Drum-Major Tripp and his wonderful Drums. soaking. The rain which had been threatening now began to fall heavily so everyone had to take cover. The Luncheon in the Mess, where Colonel Collard The photograph of the 84-pounder shows clearly and his officers entertained a large party with their well- how he was foul-hooked, outside and beneath the jaw. known hospitality, was interrupted by a tremendous (This cannot be seen in the reproduction.—Hd s.) thunderstorm and it was amusing to see people trying The hook and part of the wire trace are distinctly to eat with one hand and striving to prevent the rain visible. It is an interesting point, as this is the first going down their necks with the other. In spite of and only instance I have come across in which a tarpon everything, however, it was a very cheery and happy was captured and then found to be foul hooked. gathering and I felt sorry when the inevitable hour for our departure drew near. Eventually, having a three-hour drive before us, we had to start back at about Reproduced by' the kind permission of The Fishing 4 o’clock. Gazette, who have lent us their “ block.” That the 4tli Battalion training of 1931 has been a tremendous success, there is no doubt. This success is due to the spirit of the O.C. of the battalion and all ranks and to the fact that Colonel Crookenden has, as «h Battalion—continued. usual, given some of his finest officers from the 2nd Regimcntal-Sergeant-Major Coucliman, who has Battalion to help in the training of our Territorial served the battalion so magnificently will not be there Battalion. The presence of Major Field, and Messrs. nor will Sgt. Twyman who, as Mess Sergeant, has for Fearnside-Speed, Connolly and Tuff has been of great many years catered so efficiently for the comfort of the value to the 4th Battalion. Officers. They may, however, rest assured that the I do not want to finish on a sad note, but this is the 4th Battalion will always remember their services last training as Adjutant, of Capt. Willows who has with gratitude. I wish every success to Colonel Collard done so much for the 4th Battalion and who will be during his period of command which I know will be sadly missed. Unfortunately there will be other sad a very happy one. gaps when the 4th Battalion assembles next year for A.L-B. Annual Training. 234 THE DRAGON

- 54 The Modern Plumber." Employment-of Auxiliary Postmen in the London ■’J’HE origin of , this historical craft is uncertain, but Postal Area. the Romans worked very largely in lead with a 19/Employment/383. very high, degree of skill. Archaeologists confirm that Arrangements have been made for Long Service lead,vessels, pipes, gargoyles, etc., discovered in Greece Pensioners (whose military characters have ~ been and various. Countries in the old Roman Empire must assessed at not less than " Good ”) living in London to be at least 2,0Q0 years old. The Roman Baths at Bath, be considered for employment as Auxiliary Postmen which to-day . are still in a high, state of preservation, in the London Postal Area. tell their own story of the Romans' skill in leadworking. Some fine examples thereof can still be seen on some of Long Service Pensioners who desire to obtain this our mediaeval Cathedrals and Churches. employment should register their names with the National Association for Employment of Regular Sailors, In the past, harsh statements have been current Soldiers and Airmen, 62 Victoria Street, S.W.l. ■respecting this important craft, and the disparaging remarks and comic customs have been so complete as (Entrance in Spenser Street). to cause a laugh at the mere mention of the name There is no age limit for this work, but applicants ' Plumber ” • and has resulted in a rather humorous must be physically suitable for the duty. view being taken of the craft by-the public. Who Employment will be arranged in the locality in \vhich has not heard of the Plumber who ‘' forgot what he the applicant is living, the average weekly duty' is forgot ” or discussed the burning question " Should a approximately 28 hours, usually in the early morning Plumber tell ” ? and evening, and the average weekly wage, based on ' A few moments’' thought, however, will show how the number of hours /worked, is approximately 30s. important is'the cfaft of the modern Plumber. No The employment is of a semi-permanent nature. longer is' he, like the craftsman of the times of the Roman Empire, solely a worker of lead; he now has Long Service Pensioners under 45 years of age are to work in iron, copper, zinc, etc. eligible for establishment, as full-time Postmen and Nowadays, when a house is built, the work of the Porters, etc., and if not already registered, should Plumber is much in evidence. When the roof work is in register as above. ' progress he is called upon to assist in making it weather­ Hour of registration 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., daily, except proof by covering flats, window heads, hips, ridges, Saturday. etc., and lining gutters with lead, zinc and sometimes This War Office, By Command of the Army Council copper. He fixes the rain-water gutters and down- pipes,, he also provides the means whereby the water 13th April, 1931. H. J. Creedy. collected on the roof may be siafely carried away with­ out causing damage to the building or a nuisance to the public. In the June number of Pearson's Magazine the Inside the house, the Plumber's -work is, if anything, question is asked “ Why is the finding a four-leaved more important than outside. By means of pipes made clover supposed to be lucky ? ” The answer which of lead, iron, copper, etc., he provides a supply of pure will interest all Buffs is :— water for drinking, cooking, and domestic purposes. When the water has been made foul by washing clothes, Ever since the dawn of history the number three floors, cooking utensils, vegetables, etc., another system has been regarded with reverence. It had a deep of pipes carries it to the drainage system, into which it significance in religions of all kinds, long before the is discharged in such a manner that no objectionable coming of Christianity and the belief in the Trinity. The Druids, for instance, believed that three was the . or injurious odours can find their way into the interior symbol of the unknown God. The ordinary clover, of the dwelling. The plumber is responsible for the therefore, with its three-leaf formation, has always efficient working of our baths, waste, and ventilation shared the respect given to the number, and it figured pipes that are connected to those fittings. in the Druids’ ceremonies. The four-leaved clover, The Plumber is often called upon to instal a partly because of its rarity, and partly because its leaves domestic hot-water apparatus and a system of pipes make a small cross (a religious symbol quite apart from for the supply of Gas for lighting and cooking; the Christianity), was even more respected—to find one fixing and repairing of pumps and hydraulic rams are being a certain sign of good fortune to come. Accord­ also undertaken by him. ing to a very old superstition, the four leaves ensured • During the last few. years there has been a distinct for the finder of such a clover, fame, wealth, a faithful revival of ornamental leadwork. Some fine examples lover and glorious health. of this almost lost art are now being produced and with the favour that it is now receiving, there are excellent opportunities for those desirous of specialising in this craft. In modern industry, constructional work for the manufacture of acids, chemicals and explosives, etc., Our Contemporaries. and usually termed " Chemical Plumbing," necessitates experience in Dead Burning or Fusing, and construction. YX/E acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the The work is applied to any industries and is to a great Y T following journals :— extent a specialised branch. " Aldershot Command News.” " The Tiger and The To be a moderately successful tradesman, the Rose." "The Green Howards’ Gazette.” ; ” St. present-day Plumber must be educated; he must read George’s Gazette.” ‘‘Our Empire.” "The Lion and his trade papers to obtain a knowledge of new ideas and The Rose.” " The Bugle.” “ The Snapper.” materials and study the theory in his spare time. " British Legion Journal.” “ The Iron Duke.” The variation afforded by working in different metals “ Faugh-a-Ballagh.” “ The London Scottish Regtl. and in constantly varying conditions, appeals very much Gazette.” “ Indian Army Ordnance Corps Gazette.” to the individual who is industrious and uses his brains “ Journal of the Hon. Artillery Co.” “ The Sapper.” as well as his hands and makes the trade a very “ The Tiger and The Sphinx.” “ The Hampshire attractive one. Regtl. Journal.” “ Journal of The R.A. Service Corps.” THE DRAGON 235 Correspondence. The Queen’s Own Rifles Memorial Association We expect th at the Cross of Sacrifice ;; will be Incorporated, Toronto, Ontario. unveiled early in October and the Shrine dedicated possibly on the Sunday preceding Armistice Day and Toronto, in this connection may I ask, if you will be good enough 2nd Ju n e,1931. to favour us with details of your ceremonial when Secretary, Past and Present Association The Buffs, your memorial was consecrated in Canterbury Cathedral. The Depot, We will take great pleasure in advising you later on Canterbury, England. as to the results of our efforts and in enclosing • our Dear Colonel Findlay, official receipt for your subscription may I express the heartiest and best wishes of our Memorial Association Your very welcome and much appreciated sub­ to the Past and Present Association of the Buffs; scription of Twenty-five Guineas to the Queen’s Own Faithfully yours, Rifles Memorial Fund has been duly received from the G. LangTOn, Commandant of the Queen’s Own Rifles and on behalf Brig.-Generai. of the Directors of the Memorial Fund, I desire to President, express their heartfelt thanks not only for your substantial contribution, but also for the thoughtful act in associating your Association with the memorial 10th (Yeomanry) Battalion The Buffs. to our Fallen Comrades. Dear Sir, We have within the last few days received our final I have recently returned from a trip to Palestine reports from England and believing that you would be and while there visited the war cemeteries at Jerusalem, interested in our plans, now transmit the same for your Beersheba, Ramleh and Gaza. It may be a comfort information. v to the parents and relatives of those men of the above battalion, who gave their lives for their country during We are erecting in the churchyard of St. Paul’s the Great War, to know that the cemeteries are most Anglican Church, of which Colonel the Rev. Canon beautifully kept and the graves in perfect order. Each H. J. Cody, the Chaplain of the Regiment, is Rector, grave has flowers growing on it, in nearly, every case a " Cross of Sacrifice,” the necessary permission having geraniums, while hedges of rosemary border each path. been obtained from the War Graves Commission as •The graves of men of 10th Buffs are either at Beer­ under agreement the copyright in the " Cross of sheba or Jerusalem, and I have a .small snapshot of Sacrifice ” belongs to Sir Reginald Bloomfield, R.A., these cemeteries, and if. any relative would- like to. have who designed it and the use of this design, by agree­ a copy and will write to me I shall be pleased to send ment, is licensed by the Imperial War Graves Com­ them one. Should anyone wish at any time to send mission. " poppies,” which can be obtained from Captain Will- We are also erecting a Shrine within the Church, cox, British Legion, 26 Eccleston Square, London, they and I feel that one cannot do better than to quote can consign them to Officer-in-charge, "British War the following from the letter of J. Wippell & Company, Cemeteries, Jerusalem. Limited of Exeter, dated 15th ultimo. Arthur • Ffrench Blake, " The conception of the design is as follows :—■ late Commanding 10th Battalion The Buffs. The STAND would be in alabaster, the architectural detail of which harmonizes with the Tablet. In the 19 Nellie View, comers of the Stand the carved foliage would be based Richmond Hill, . . on the Laurel for victory, bound at intervals with ribbon on which would be the Battle Honours of the ^2 8 th May, 1931. regiment. The covered canopies of the panels under­ Dear Colonel Findlay, neath lead up to the praying angels representing the Herewith I am sending you another couple . of Heavenly Host. "Records of .Other Regiments,” dealing with The The Case itself would stand on four Sea Horses, Middlesex Regiment and The 4/7th Dragoon Guards not only emblematical of the sea power of the Empire,, I hope you will find the same in order. but that the active services of the Canadian Troops I was very interested to read in last month's Dragon commenced by their journey across the sea. that The Buffs are going to "mount Buck” as-the . The ornament immediately above these and below Guardsmen call it this August. I shall watch the daily the Book will be pierced foliage based on the Poppy, papers with great interest round about that time -to typifying sleep and Flanders field. The ornament see what they say about it. May they get a good above will also be pierced and will consist of the Maple press—and may the resulting publicity be the means of and Rose, intertwined, and surrounding the two shields attracting plenty of good smart Londoners as recruits bearing the Arms of the Queen’s Own Rifles and also to The Buffs ! of the Buffs. These shields to be carried out in colour Major Tomlinson’s article on his trip to Morocco and translucent enamel. was very good indeed. I was over there last year, The Case itself would be lined Red as the one in and whilst at Gib. a few weeks ago I crossed to Ceuta the Buffs Memorial in Canterbury Cathedral. and had a good trip round the Spanish Zone. The work would be carried out in selected alabaster, I managed to see quite a good bit of their " Foreign carved and worked, finest craftsmanship. Case wrought Legion ” at work. in Bronze, Crests in translucent enamel, lined Red Yours very sincerely, Morocco, glass to be quarter polished plate, complete R. Maurice Hill. with lock and necessary fasteners. We would mention that the Case has been designed How to get “ The Dragon.” to take a Book approximately the same size as the one p O R those wishing to receive the Paper direct through the in the Buffs Chapel at Canterbury Cathedral. If, how­ post each month, the rates of subscription are:— ever, the one you propose to use is of a different pro­ 1 year, 8/-, 6 months, 4/-, 3 months, ir -. portion, if you will kindly let us know we will make Remittances should be sent to the Editor, Depot The Bit.:: the case accordingly.” Canterbury. 236 t h e ; d r a g o n

The Buffs Golfing Society. ALBUHERA. Q N Saturday, May 30th a return match took place Recently the correct spelling of A l b u h e r a has been at Rye between a Society team, wholly raised questioned. The following is an extract of a War by the 2nd Battalion, and the 3rd Battalion Royal Office letter received by the Colonel of The Regiment: Tank Corps. The result was a win for the Tank Corps " Fortesque and Oman both use Albuera, as did by 5 matches to 2, as against a tie in the previous Napier, and also Wellington in his despatch; the encounter, which was played over Prince's, Sandwich word is also so spelt in the Library copies of submissions last month. granting the ‘ honour ’ to several regiments in 1816/17. Once again Lieut.-Colonel M. Kemp Welch got the On the other hand Albuhera is the spelling in the Army better of Noel Reeves with a win by 5 and 4, as against List and has so appeared almost for a century, and 2 and 1 on the previous occasion. The day was a most the Standard Spanish History of the war also spells enjoyable one and there were several tight matches. it with an H, as does Robert Southey and possibly The Buffs. 3rd Bn. Royal Tank Corps. others.” N. R. R e e v e s...... 0 Lt.-Col. M. Kemp Welch (5 & 4) 1 It has been decided to adhere to A l b u h e r a which C. T. Kenward (3 & 2) 1 P. W. D. Sturdee ...... 0 is on the Colours. C. Haggard (halved) ... 0 Major F. Tucker (halved) ... 0 H. C. F. Harwood 0 Major H. G. V. Roberts (2 up) 1 Lt.-Col. J. Crookendea 0 Major P. J. Reeves (4 & 2) ... I Major H. de R. Morgan 0 F. I. C. Wetherall (5 & 3) ... 1 1 4 F oursomes. Reeves and Harwood (halved) 0 Kemp Welch and Reeves From Past to Present. (halved) ...... 0 Kenward and Haggard (1 hole) 1 Sturdee and Wetherell ... 0 (A F a m il y T a l e ). Crookenden and Morgan ... 0 Roberts and Tucker (4 & 3)... 1 TTHE attfidhncement, in another column, of the death Total ... 2 Total ... 5 A of Mrs. M. A. L- Edwards, will rouse the sympathy Our Next Fixture. of many Old Buffs. She was a daughter of the Our annual match against The Royal West Kent regiment, and a grand-daughter, too ; being born at Regiment will be played at Deal on Sunday, July Sheffield when the battalion was stationed there in 26th, and it is hoped there may be 12 a side, Members 1864 ; her father being No. 2548 Color-Sergeant Hugh wishing to play in this fixture are invited to notify Borland, who was born 1830 and served with the 1st Captain H. H. C. Baird at Prince’s Lodge, Sandwich Battalion from 1848 to 1869 ; and had the Crimean as soon as possible. Medal, with Clasp, Sebastopol; the Turkish Medal; the China Medal, 1860 ; Clasp, Taku Forts, and the G.C.M. When the 1st Battalion was stationed in Dum Dum in 1890 she came out to be married to then, Cpl. Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force E- P. Edwards and was with the regiment until 1899, Provident Society. when her husband proceeded to Royal Military School of Music (Kneller Hall). We have received a copy of the rules of the Army, Of her family, four children were bom in the Navy, Marines and Air Force Provident Society. regiment, three daughters, Corinne, Enid and Gladys, 1. OBJECT OF THE S o c ie ty .—To afford to officers and the eldest son, who is now Capt. H. C. A. Edwards, a means whereby they may, at a minimum cost, provide M.C., Royal Warwickshire Regiment, now serving in annuities for their widows (or their eligible children Palestine. The three daughters all married soldiers; if their wives predecease them) which may prove a the first is the wife of Capt. J. J. Hart, M.C., late R.U. welcome addition to the small service pensions. Rifles, the second is married to Lieut. H. Busby, M.C., 2. Membership.— All regular officers (serving or late K.S.L. Infantry, the third is the widow of Capt. retired) of the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Marines, R. J. O. Love, R.U. Rifles who was killed in the war in Royal Indian Marine, or Royal Air Force are eligible 1916. Harry Busby is now the instructor at St. for membership provided they are under 50 years of Lawrence College, Ramsgate, and no doubt the 2nd age. (An officer of the Royal Air Force must be not Battalion cricket team met him at.their recent cricket less than 30 years of age.) match, but would not know that his wife was a j Buff 3. Contributions and Benefits.—The annual bred and born. I contribution depends upon the number of memberships Early in this article the words—and grand-daughter, held and the relative ages of the member and his wife. too—require some explanation, and this is the |tale. An annuity is paid to the widow of an officer who has When the regiment arrived in India in 1827 from held memberships for not less than six years. Australia,—they had been serving in New South Wales Further particulars may be obtained from The since 1821—it was made up to strength by drafts and Secretary, 45 Avondale Road, Bromley, Kent. transfers. In the former was a Sergeant, Geo. Harrison accompanied by his young wife. That young woman was to be quite remarkable in the annals of the regiment as this history will show. There was issue of this Work for Discharged Soldiers. marriage—a son, George and a daughter, Jane, who In April, 209 soldiers completed courses of was bom about 1829 ; the son served in the 41st instruction at the Army Vocational Training Centres. Welsh Regiment; but the daughter in 1846 married Of these, immediate employment was found for 123, Colour-Sergeant Thomas Colley, a name still well-known and 26 students who had left in previous months were in the regiment, and of which more anon. Sgt. George alsoplaced in employment. Harrison died and his widow contracted a second These courses, at which soldiers about to leave marriage with Sgt. Ward, who, tradition says] was the Army receive training in Civil trades, include more passing rich as the regimental master-tailor. He, than twenty different occupations, among which are however, did not live long and soon left his wife a widow the various building trades, acetylene welding, for the second time. Now in those times a widow could boot-repairing, motor mechanism, market-gardening, not be sent home by the next boat as obtains in these general farming, poultry farming, and also positions days, and having two children to bring up, there seemed of trust and private service. nothing for it but to marry again, and it was so. THE DRAGON 237

The third marriage was to one. Wood and there was issue a daughter, Mary Louisa, b.- 1841, and a son, Past and Present Association. Harry, b. 1846. This son, Harry Wood, served in the Donations. regiment on the tour in India, 1866-1879, coming; ’.During the period .18/5/31 to 18/6/31 the foUowiug home, however, in 1874, being; a sergeant in the band. donations have; been made:— '"'ll . . Both Ward and Wood served in the Mohratta Campaign in 1843 and were present at the Battle of Punniar—the -The Benevolent Fund. two Punniar Stars are yet in the family—the battle s: d; when all those guns were captured and also a Standard, RAM, Potter. . ... 0 0 7 | which was in a glass case in the officers' mess and is W.C. N. Chapman,' Esq. 105 0 0 no doubt, still, preserved. The regiment Was in Kumaul in 1841 when Mary-; Disbursements.- L. Wood Was born, a military station that wad'closed down in later years, and Umballa was ■ created in its .Duripg the period 18/5/31 to'18/6/3! the following stead; The 1st Battalion stayed a day in the derelict disbursements Jiave been m ad e:— - cantonment in the spring of 1893, when on the march £ s: d from Allahabad to Jullunder, 802 miles along the grand : May 18- Grant 1 0 0 trunk road. A native barrack caretaker prd&uced a 20. Grant 6 10 0 , Buffs button of the old time which Capt.- C. C. Cumber, 20. Grant 1 0 0 . the Quartermaster, exhibited to all and sundry on that 23. Grant 1 0 0- 26. Grant 1 10 0 day. 2 0 0 Mary L. Wood was married to Colour-Sergeant 27. Grant Hugh Borland in 1862, the regiment being then in the 30. Grant 0 14 0 Tower of London. 30. Grant 1 0.0. The eldest daughter of Mary Harrison—Jane—-was June 5. Grant 2 0 0 the mother of Major and Qr.-Mr. J. W. Colley, Major 5. Grant 1 0 0 and Qr.-Mr. Geo. Colley, late West India Regiment 8. Grant 1 0 0 and Major A. E. Colley—and a daughter, Mary. The 8. Grant 1 10 0 younger daughter of the now Mary Wood., Mary 9. Grant 2 0 0 Louisa, was the mother of Bandmaster Hugh Borland, 9. Grant 1 0 0 10. Grant 1 0 0 Mrs. M. A. L. Edwards and another son, H arry Borland. 10. Grant 0 10 0 There are now two families in existence at this period 11. Grant 2 0 0 which have helped to carry on the regimental traditions 11. Grant. 1 0 0 to the present day. 13. Grant 1 0 0, Of the first family, J . W. Colley got his commission 0 10 o’ as Quartermaster and was for many years with The 18. Grant Depot at Canterbury in th at capacity. Geo. Colley, from Colour-Sergeant, transferred to the West India New Members. Regiment as Sergeant-Major and later got his com­ Life Members.—Corporal P. C rane; L/Cpl. G. mission as Quartermaster of that regiment. A. E; Watts; Privates H. Hoyle, L. Hayde, P. O'Grady, Colley was an officer in the Queen's Westminster A. Dallen, A. Ford, S. Smith, J. Hayden, J. Ahearn, Volunteers, but served with the regiment in the War. J. Smith, H. Martin, T. Dawson, C. Gore, G. Cox, The daughter Mary married Band-Sergeant John W. J. Gill, G. May, W. Hurst, J. Tong, W. Gardner; Charman who served in the regiment on the Indian Messrs. D. B. King, R. W. Whitby, A. H. Barber, tour, 1866-1879. A son of this marriage is now Major M.S.M., E. R. Heath, R. P. S. Waley, L. G. Hemmings* J. W. Charman, O.B.E., M.M. and is in the Army K. W. Holloway, R. Worthington, A. E. Warren; Educational Department. Mary Charman died in C. J. Harris, A. E. Goveney, H. F. Butterfield, C. J. November, 1930 and was interred in Kingston Cemetery, Baker. her age being 83 years; some Ladies of the Buffs Annual Members.—Lieutenants R. F. Parry, N. R. Guild attended the funeral. Reeves, G. P. Mount; Privates J. Gregory, HV Of the second family, Hugh Borland, No. 951, served Richards, O. German, W. Nash, W. Glover, G. Glover, in the 1st Battalion from 1883 to 1907 when he was J. Rowe, A. Leney, C. E.ayner, W. Skinner, D. Davis, transferred as Bandmaster to the 1st Battalion Bedford­ F. McGinley, L. Mills, T. Baldwin, A. Dutton, G. Swift, shire Regiment. Mary A. Louisa married E. P. Edwards A. Keay, G. Bowers, H. Rackley, R. Morton, H. Lindsey, which has been already mentioned. The other son, J. Graham, E. Champion, L. Sayer, A. Barlow, C. : Harry Borland, put in 33 years service in the 1st Royals McKay, E. Ballard, A. Field, G. Williams, W. Allen, and the R.A.M. Corps. A. Anderson, W. Turner, R. Howell, C. Martin, R.. Though gradually dropping away from the Stickells, J. Kibler, E. Hankins, L. Buck, J. Prandy, regiment in the later years the service to the country Wright, F. Baumback, H. Surridge, A. Songhurst, stiH goes on, for the sons'of these families are now V. Milham, S. Brice, T. Roberts, A. C. Be van, G. Bird, serving in other regiments, mainly for the reason that J. G. Chapman, W. E. Clements, K. Clarke, G. H. Cork, their fathers had to transfer to other regiments on G. A. Doe, G. Druggitt, G. E- Duffield, W. J. Ellett, promotion. But all will agree that the lady who came A. H. Foster, L. W. Gilbert, H. G. Harding, W. ‘ C. out to India in 1827—as Mary Harrison and died as Hare, H. Holderness, F. Hover, A. Jones, A. N. Kelly, " Granny Wood" in 1876 at the Royal Cambridge S. C. Mendum, L. Moore, S. Morgan, J. Palmer, H. C. Home for Soldiers’ Widows, who was the progenitor Russell, F. G. Smith, L. White, - H. P. Wilkins, of these two families, was the greatest and grandest F. Williams; Messrs. W. J. Hetherington, F. O. Ray- “Buff ” of them all; and the record just tops a century. ner, A. G. Stone, N. R. Burgess, S. W. Axteli; J 1 C. P. & P.A. 1659. Stanton, A. E. Rumley, H. Kingsnorth, E. J. Stiff, A. Evans, E. Marsh, P. Mowles, J. M. Smith, L. G. B. and W. FISK-MOORE, Bailey, W. G. Brockway, H. L. Epps, F- G. Grover, A. Hill, C. H. Walker, F. Whittle, D. S. Clarke, H. H. Professional Photographers, Peppercorn. VII St. George's Place, Canterbury. Associate Members.—Messrs. J. W. Vinall, C. Tel. 337. Haddon, F. Hudson. 238 THE DRAGON

Cenotaph Sunday. The parade was under the command of the Branch President, Major Keown, M.C., whilst Captain T. O. Cook performed the duties of Adjutant. Sergeant- Majors of the parade were Messrs. H. Port and E. Bolton. At the appointed time the parade was called to attention whilst the wreath, with an escort of one man from each battalion and carried by Messrs. Bush and Clarke, marched on to the ground under the command of Lieut. E. Ainge and took up position on the flank. The Colonel of the Regiment then passed down the ranks of each formation expressing his pleasure at seeing so many he knew. At 3 p.m., headed by our Colonel, General Sir Arthur Lynden Bell, who had as his A.D.C. Colonel H. Findlay, as we passed through the Horse Guards Arch, the Sentries of the Life Guards brought their swords to the ‘ Carry ’ in saluting the Colonel of the Regiment. Along the centre of Whitehall we went with a full compliment of mounted and foot police guiding our way. Unless one has really been on such a parade it is difficult to May the 28th last was another red letter day for explain the big show it is. At the Cenotaph a large the Past and Present Association and for the Regiment. rectangle was formed by the men on three sides and the It is true to say that practically every Saturday and Ladies’ Guild on the other. The wreath, consisting of Sunday throughout the year a wreath is laid on the Buff Roses and Blue Irises tied with Buff and Blue plinth of the National Memorial by some regiment or ribbon was deposited by the Colonel of the Regiment other organisation, and it is equally true to say, that and two minutes’ silence was observed. The procession excepting the British Legion and similar bodies who then reformed and marched off, turning down Charles draw from the whole country, there is no parade like Street where the parade was dismissed. Thus ended that of the London Branch of our Association. another great day which has earned kudos from many— Watching the ceremonial parade before commencing not only Buffs—but belonging to other units. the march, one hears remarks from the lips of on­ lookers: “ It’s the Bull's Regiment.” Then the quiet reply : " Yes ; it is, but it is just one Branch and Ashford Branch. there are thirteen other Branches. To muster 500 The Ashford Branch wish to express their thanks to Eieut.-Colonel members to do homage to their fallen comrades is an Crookenden, D.S.O., the Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers and example of affection and love which is typical of a true men of the 2nd Battalion The Buffs for the magnificent arrangements Buff. It is only a very few years ago, when the first made for the entertainment of the Branch and the warm welcome march to the Cenotaph took place—somewhere about accorded to all. Eighty members attended the parade and service which was greatly appreciated by all. 1925 or 1926. The Monthly Meeting was held at the Market Hotel on Saturday, The London Branch consulted the Executive Com­ June 13th. The Chairman (Mr. II. Ades), unfortunately being laid up with a broken ankle, was unable to be present. The Vice-Chairman mittee arrd guaranteed a parade of the minimum (Mr. C. Waghorn) occupied the Chair and was supported by Mr. E. H. numbers laid down of 50—• in fact we turned out nearly Chambers (Secretary) and Mr. A. F. Tomsett (Assistant Secretary). 300, with a properly-formed up parade and a turn-out The Minutes, correspondence and cash account were read and to bring credit to the Regiment. The organisation and accepted. The next item was the report of the Sub-Committee. The .Secretary read the balance sheet of the concert given by the Drums administration of a big muster such as now takes place, and Fifes of the 2nd Battalion The Buffs on April 25th, which had naturally involves a great deal of hard work unknown proved a great success, the sum of £19 15s. 5d. being placed to the to many. Application and permission of the Com­ credit of the Branch Benevolent Fund. The Committee expressed their thanks to the organisers, and especially to Drum-Major H. V. missioner of Police has to be obtained some months in Duffy for the splendid performance given. advance. Pie has to be informed of probable numbers, The next item was the annual picnic at Wrotliam. Members times of forming up, marching off and depositing of the who wished to go were asked to give in their names so that the Secretary could arrange for transport. Wreath. Then the permission of His Majesty's Office Then members were reminded of the great day at Canterbury, of Works has to be obtained in like manner. The which I think was hardly necessary-, because they all seemed to be Superintendent of Cannon Row Police .Station is advised preparing for i t ! of the full programme ; The Press Agency and every The Branch Annual Church Parade will be held on Sunday, September 20th. Parade at headquarters at 10 a.m. paper in London, its suburbs and chief provincial Having had rather a heavy Agenda to wade through, there was press is communicated with, likewise the photographic no time for musical harmony, so the evening closed with press and the B.B.C. Having given an outline of past and present marches to the Cenotaph, although only 500 were on parade—which was slightly less than last year due to the absence of contingents from other London Branch. branches—it gave at once the impression that a parade The 54th meeting of the above Branch was held on Saturday, the of the London Branch on its ' own ’ ground, will beat 20th June last, with Capt. J. E. Enright in the chair. The Colonel easily any other regimental organisation and we see of the Regiment was present, also Colonel H. Findlay, both of whom were heartily welcomed. many such parades during the year. We were glad to The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed. welcome Major Foster and Mr. Reginald Carter, the Correspondence was read from Capt. Ranking thanking the Branch for respective Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Dover its congratulations on his becoming a full life member of the Association. Colonel Guy Eee sent a wire conveying best wishes and regrets for not Branch, also Captain Arthur Barton, the Chairman of being present. Geo. Eaton wrote desiring to be remembered to all old the Medwav Branch. The order of forming up was as friends. follows :— Unemployment.—-The meeting passed a vote of thanks to Mr. A. Cole for notifying a vacancy ; also to Mr. Elvey fer doing a similar E sco rt to t h e C o e o n e l o f t h e R e g im e n t . kind act. Both these vacancies were filled from the Branch register. The Cheesea Pensioners. Mr. (Nobby) Clarke rose and expressed his thanks to Mr. Cole and to Captain Enright. 1st, 2nd a n d 3rd Battaeions, Cricket Club.—Mr. Household gave a report on this side of the 4th, 5th, 6th, 9th a n d 10th B a t t a e io n s . Branch activities and mentioned that Major Vaughan, who was a great cricketer and who never missed playing for the club, had written 7th Battaeion. to say he had been unfortunately ill for a long time and would be out 8th Battaeion. of town for some mouths; it was proposed and carried that a resolution of sympathy be sent to Major Vaughan wishing him a quick The London Branch Ladies' Guied. return to healthi THE DRAGON 23 9

Canterbury Re -Union,—The Chairman pointed out that this The Branch Cricket Club is in full swing. '• We have acquired onr year the Branch would not be expected to fall in on the parade ground own private ground at Harrow Meadow, Eltham, which is at the corner if it was unable .to reach the Depot at the time detailed for moving off ; of the Sidcup Arterial Road. Mr. W. Household has indeed done it was essential no delay should take place in the arrangements for the splendidly in obtaining this ground. On . June 14th we played the memorial service as in former years. The Chairman Stated the Gomm Athletic and Cricket Club of Rothefhithe arid lost by 66 runs. Colonel of the Regiment would prefer the members not in time for On June 21st we placed a stronger 'team in the field'and avenged our parade to fall in with the Branch outside the Cathedral for marching previous defeat. A good number of the Branch with their wives.and back. It was suggested that perhaps members might all go down by families came along to. give support. A really goo'd ted' was provided a later train and go direct to the Cathedral; also that area representa­ at 6d. per head. . Peacock' and Waby were distinctly uriforturiate to tives might go into the question of charabancs starting from their be run- out, , but these things will happen iri cricket. The brothers respective areas. It was decided-to defer the matter until next meet­ C. and H. Barden gave added strength to the team whilst Charlie ing. Household retired after knocking up a useful 13. Now that 2d. all the Wrotham Picnic.—Mr. Peacock was present to issue railway way trairi services are running on -Sundays We look forward to-good tickets to members. The Chairman gave details and said he hoped attendances...... to see a large number present. Bond on Branch v. Gomm Cricket Club. J une 1-4th. Balance Sheets.—The Balance Sheet of the Past and Present Gomm C.C. London Branch. Association was placed before the meeting and the financial position of Merritt, Ibw, b Smith....,...... 23 Schofield, b-Merritt...... I the various regimental funds administered was explained. The meet­ Banbury, b Gutts...... 23 Cutts, b Merritt...... 0 ing congratulated Colonel Findlay and the Executive Committee upon Cooper, b Allen...... 1 W. "Household, b Cooper...... 12 the:state of the Association's finances. The Annual report and financial Harrison, b Cutts...... 7 Peacock, b Merritt...... • £ statement of the Eondon Branch was placed before the meeting. As Evans, b Coveney...... 5 Alien, not out...... 7 every member had received the report by post it was unnecessary to Davies, b Coveney„...... 4 Smith, b Merritt...... 0 enter into details. Mr. G. Dalton, enquired about a raffle he organised Cullen, b Household...:...... -.. 1- Fludder, b Cooper..,'...... 1 and referred to the treasurer. It is not possible to separately itemise Dufroy, b Cutts...... 5 Waters, b Merritt...... 1 each small financial transaction in a. financial statem ent; these are Trott, run out...... 2 Coveney, b Cooper...... I grouped together under respective headings, but each cash transaction Motts, b Household...... 0 Cutts, b Merritt...... 0 large or small, is shewn separately in the cash book to which members Street, b Household...... 3 Aldridge, c & b Merritt...... 3 cain have access on meeting nights on application to the treasurer. Extras...... 22 Extras..:...... 2 Presentations.—Major H. E. James kindly presented the Branch through Captain Enright, with a framed photograph of the Annual Total...... 96 Total...... SO Dinner and Indies’ Festival. It was proposed a vote of thanks be sent to Major James. Mr. Waby handed the Colonel of the Regiment a spjendid photograph- of the Cenotaph. The Brarieh" took the Bondon Branch v. Gomm Cricket Club. J une 21st. opportunity of thanking Colonel Findlay personally for the beautiful London Branch. Gomm C.C. Billiards Cup which was on view. Peacock, run out...... 0 Banbury, lbw, b Barden, C..... 10 Billiards Tournament.—Mr. Coveney reported progress and H: Barden, c & b Cooper. 15 Wright, b Darden, C...... 1 requested those members who had not yet played off their heats to do W. Household, b Cooper.. 2 Grimwood; b Household, C...... -8 so a t once. Waby, run out...... 0 Evans, c & b Household, C..... 0 C. Barden, b Wright...... 22 Stevens, c & b Household, C. . 9 The Colonel of the Regiment, in his address, spoke of the pleasure C. Household, retired...... 13 Waldix, b Barden, C...... ;..... 0 it gave him to be with them once again. He urged all who can to Hickey, b Wright...... 3 Mott, b Coveney....'...... : 7 come to the Memorial Service at Canterbury on August 16th. He was Aldridge, b Cooper...... 2 James, c &• b. Household...... ,. 0 delighted to hear the good news about his old friend * Nobby Clarke ’ Coveney, b Cooper...... 4 Trott, b Barden,- C...... 5 and proved once more the Association is worth belonging to. As to G. Dalton, b Cooper...... 2 Cooper, not out...... 0 Cenotaph Sunday—he congratulated the Branch upon turning out in Harrison, not out...... 0 Smith, b Household, C...... 0 such large numbers; he had spoken to high police officials and others, Extras...... -.. 5 Extras...... - 5 who all agree no-one can do this parade like the Buffs. He asked all to come and visit his home on June 28th next. Total...... 68 Total...... 45 Colonel Findlay was exceptionally brief and just referred to the question of the members being careful not to overwork willing horses. After a few minutes’ break, ladies were invited to the social part of the programme organised by Mr. (Snowball) Manning. Dover Branch. , Programme, Undoubtedly a full account of the marvellous - reception the - A musical prelude by Mr. Hugh Borland on the Flute and Piccolo : Association had on their visit to Shorndiffe on Sunday, 7th June, will Mr. Wittering’s daughter, Mrs. Marjorie Nauson at the Piano. appear elsewhere in this issue, bat as a branch we should like to offer March “ Distant Greeting ” Loring. our very sincere thanks to ’ all ranks of the 2nd Battalion- for their Serenade ...... “ Quad tu Chantes ” , ...... Gounod. splendid hospitality. So n g ...... “ True till Death ” ...... Scoff Galley. We wish to call the attention -of all Members of the Association Fantasia .... “ From Barber of Seville ” ...... Rosinie. and all readers of The Dragon to the fact that, in conjunction with Piccolo Solo ...." E’oiseau du Bois ” ...... Le Theire. the Territorial Company, we are holding a Fete and Fair on a very Mr. (Snowball) Manning’s Concert Party. large scale at The Buffs’ Drill Hall, Marine Parade, Dover on Wednes­ Regimental March... “ The Buffs ” ... Snowball Trio. day and Thursday, 8th and 9th July, in aid of various Charities, the March ...... “ Guards on Parade ” ... Snowball Trio. Fete and Fair opening each day at 2.30 p.m. The Hon. I,ady Eynden- Opening Chorus “ Shake and let us be friends ” Snowball Trio. Bell has very kindly consented to perform .the opening ceremony on Song' ...... “ I surrender Dear ” ... Miss F. Manning. the fiist day and Mrs. Crookenden has similarly consented for the Violin So l o ...... “ Persian Market ” MR. A. H. Manning. second day. We trust that all who can will make a real effort to pay Exhibition ...... " Sword Swinging ” Mr. F. C. Manning. us a visit and wc feel sure that if they do so they will receive a hearty Song ... “ When your hair has turned to silver ” ... Snowbali. welcome. An excellent programme of entertainments, side-shows So n g ...... “ Drink, Brothers, Drink ” Mr. A. Smith. and stalls has been arranged arid therefore there should not be a dull Selections ...... Dance Music ... Snowball Trio. moment. We also understand that The Drums of the 4th Battalion Song ... " You brought a new kind of Dove ” Mr. B. F oster. are “ Beating Retreat ” on the Sea Front on the Wednesday evening Violin So l o ...... “Serenata” ... MR. A. H. Manning. at 7 p.m. and therefore anyone visiting ns on the Wednesday can So n g ...... "One Alone” ... Miss F. Manning. " kill two birds with one stone.” Song ...... " Eady of Spain ” Mr. F. C. Manning. . J.S. Song- ...... “ Poor that helps the Poor ” ... Snowball. Song ...... " Good-night Sweetheart ” ... Miss F. Manning. Miss I,- E. Manning accompanied the Concert Party on the Piano. A very happy evening was brought to a close by all standing and sing­ Medway Branch. ing: Minutes of a general meeting held at the Headquarters,' Chatham, God save the King. on 23rd May, 1931. - Captain A. Barton presided, over a meeting of forty-seyen.members Branch Notes. and one visitor. There is no doubt that Mr. Snowball Manning and his fine family . The minutes of the April meeting were read' and passed on the must have worked very hard by the splendid show they gave .us on our motion of Mr. W. C. Frendi, seconded by Mr. H. Barnes. last ladies’ night; it was very much appreciated. Then again, Mr. Arising from the minutes, the' Chairman said that the members Borland proved he was still as good on the flute as ever he was. Shades referred to had been visited, but it was riot possible to interest them of evening and wonderful visions; to think such stirring old Buffs in the Association. He went on to say that he was reluctant to remove as Wittering, Borland, Hasler, Manning, Molly Marshall, and many anyone from the list of riiembers, but these men had been given every others should all meet again; it shows the Value of the Association opportunity, had been written to and visited, but had not attended for, without it,-hundreds of old pals who have now met each other, the meetings. In addition they had not paid the subscription for the would have been sitting in-the old armchair, puffing a cigarette, look­ year 1930, and this, according to the rules, precluded them from further ing up to the ceiling and thinking of olden days would say : " I wonder membership. They were therefore struck off the roll on the motion whatever become of.So and So ? How I should like to meet him once of Mr. A. D. Shirley, seconded by Mr: H. Barnes and passed again. unanimously. 240 THE DRAGON

The Chairman then gave a report of the sub-committee meeting Our usual monthly meeting was held on Tuesday, June 9th and held at Canterbury, with special reference to the arrangements for the I am pleased to state that we had a record attendance ; in fact I begin lunch. During the Easter visit to the Battlefields a wreath had been to think that my previous month’s notice as to attendance may have placed on the Mehin Gate in the name of all branches of the association had some effect. Dong may it continue ! I t was decided that, any­ and the cost of this worked out at four shillings and threepence per how for the summer months, an endeavour should be made to hold the branch. This sum was immediately voted from the branch funds. meetings elsewhere and therefore arrangements are being made to hold Further details of the “ At Home ’’ at Shorndiffe were discussed our next monthly meeting on July 14th at the Red Dion at Denton. and many members booked their seats for the journey. Members will proceed by motor 'bus from the Drill Hall a t Folkestone The Secretary of the Sports Committee reminded all of the Derby at about 7 o’clock and it is hoped that this innovation will be the means Sweep Tickets, a few books of which he still had for distribution. of attracting those members or prospective members who do not usually The President of the branch honoured the meeting with his presence, attend the ordinary monthly meetings. and later on the General Secretary of the Association, Colonel H. Smudger. Findlay, C.B.E., arrived and gave the members a few cheery words. L a d ie s ’ G u ir d . Three new members were welcomed. The usual collection realised seven and eightpence. The Branch is progressing very favourably and, up to the present forty-eighb members have been enrolled, while there are definite promises of others and it is hoped that the fifty mark will soon be Margate Branch. reached. The following ladies have become Vice-Presidents: Mrs. The principal event in June was the 2nd Battalion “ At Home”, Crookenden, Mrs. Roberts, Mrs. Hirst and Miss Hamilton. when 34 men and 10 ladies accepted the hospitality of lieutenant- A very successful Whist Drive was held at the Regent Hall, Folke­ Colonel J. Crookenden, D.S.O. on Sunday, the 7th inst. Everybody stone, on Friday, May 15th, by the above Guild, in aid of their Funds. enjoyed themselves and were: delighted with the efforts made to. The Hall was filled to capacity which was most gratifying. entertain them. The prizes were presented by the Chairman, Mrs. Reginald G. Wood, Margate were successful in winning the Miniature Range Contest J.P. Amongst those present w ere:—Mrs. Wentworth Gore, (Vice- with a score of 145, the 2nd Battalion being next with 141, Folkestone, Chairman), Mrs. Hirst (Vice-President), Capt. and Mrs. Coote. Col. 132, Hythe, 128, Ramsgate, 121, Rondon, 104, Medway, 103, Canter­ J. Crookenden, D.S.O., and Mrs. Crookenden paid a visit during the bury, 90, Sandwich, 89, Herne Bay, 82, Dover, 81, Weald, 77. evening. Margate’s team and scores were :—Messrs. A. E. Bushell, 45; . The Prizes were given by the following :—Mrs. Crookenden (Vice- W. T. Jarman, 37 ; E. C. Nethersole, 37 ; W. Philpott, 28, Margate; President), Miss Hamilton (Vice-President), Mrs. Reginald G. Wood, were awarded a silver Tankard presented by Rieutenant-Colonel J. J.P. (Chairman), Mrs. Wentworth Gore (Vice-Chairman), C. Brooke, Crookenden, D.S.O., and are having it suitably engraved. Mr. Bushell Esq. (Vice-Chairman, Men’s Branch), The Buffs Dadies’ Guild, and tied with MT. Bayly of Ramsgate with highest individual score, the Past and Present Association, Folkestone Branch. latter winning the “ shoot off.” The Prize-winners were :—Mrs. Jones,' Mr. Doggett, Mr. Taylor, Mr. R. H. Hannan, Chairman of the Branch received the prize Mr. Butler, Mrs. rWilkinson, Mrs. Rewry and Mrs. Abbott. on behalf of the Branch. The catering was carried out successfully by Mrs. Nesbit assisted On parade the Margate detachments were under the command by Mrs. VaUintine, Mrs. Cloke, Mrs. Wilkinson and Mrs. Martin. Mr. of Dieutenant-Colonel F. Mainwaring Dunstan, T.D. A. Smith, Mr. Wilkinson and Mr. Nesbit of the Men’s Branch gave very Mr. Pearce, our Dragon Salesman, reports an increase of subscribers valuable help. Mr. Francis acted as M.C. to this most interesting Journal. The first Monthly Meeting of the above Guild was held at the Drill The Hon. Secretary, Mr. G. T. Rogers, is recovering from his recent Hall, Folkestone, on Wednesday, June 17th, some forty members illness and he would be much obliged if current subscriptions now attending. Tea was provided by the Branch, followed by a Whist overdue could be sent to him at his new address “ Sunnyridge," 123 Drive, the Prize-winners being Mrs. Frauds, Mrs. Field, Mrs. A. F. Dane Road, or at 18 Cedi Square. A Secretary should not be expected Smith and Mrs. Doggett. A raffle for a Tea Cloth and Serviettes was to chase.the town to get these arrears in. Kindly help in making the won by Mrs. Read. The Chairman, Mrs. Reginald G. Wood, J.P., work lighter. welcomed the members and expressed pleasure at seeing so m any. Please keep in mind the Annual Thanksgiving Service and Re­ won by Mrs. Read. The Chairman, Mrs. Reginald G. Wood, J.P., union a t Canterbury in August. welcomed the members and expressed pleasure at seeing so many G.T.R. present. It was arranged that the second Wednesday in each month should be the regular Meeting in future, except July, .when the Folke­ stone Branch are invited to visit Dover Branch for an afternoon Social Hythe Branch. and Tea, to which the Rondon Branch has also been invited. Thanks are due to the Committee for the arrangements made, also to C. Brooke, May 21st was a red-letter day for Hythe when' The Buffs Amateur Esq., for permission to use the Drill Hall, and the Members of “D” Dramatic Sodety of the 2nd Battalion gave a Concert in the Hythe Company Club for use of chairs and tables. Institute in aid of the Hythe Brandi Benevolent Fund. Although The Branch is rapidly increasing in numbers, five being enrolled the funds of the Branch did not allow of much advertising, yet the Hall on Wednesday, the strength to date being forty-eight. Radies wish­ was full and there can be no doubt that next time a larger Hall will ing to join should write to Mrs. W. H. Francis, 5 Radnor Park Gar­ be required. The troupe consisted of Mrs. Buxton, Mrs. Field, Mrs. dens, Folkestone, who will furnish the necessary particulars. Willing, Sergeant Smith, Dance-Corporal Brookes, Dance-Corporal Hodgson and Private Woods, and the Orchestra under Bandmaster W. B. Foster, A.R.C.M. Major H. de R. Morgan; D.S.O., was stage Sandwich Branch. manager and producer. Sergeant R. Diamond acted as assistant producer and Sergeant Field was the property manager. Our thanks The Monthly Meeting was held at the Drill Hall on Friday, June are due to one and all for the excellent show and we hope they enjoyed 12 th. I t was rather poorly attended owing to counter-attractions of it as much as the audience who clearly, appreciated every minute of allotments, bowls, etc. the performance. We hope it will not be long before we see them in Apologies were received from the Chairman, owing to an important Hythe again. engagement in Rondon. Mr. A. Bennett was elected Chairman for the Amongst those present were Dieutenant-Colonel J. Crookenden, evening. It was unanimously agreed that a letter of thanks be sent D.S.O. and Mrs. Crookenden, Colonel H. Findlay, C.B.E. and Mrs. to the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion for the splendid way Findlay, Colonel Buttenshaw and Mrs. Buttenshaw, Major H. de R. in which they were entertained on June 7th. Everyone spent a very Morgan, D.S.O. and Mrs. Morgan, Captain Wale and Mrs. Wale, enjoyable time and agreed that the displays were great. Many now Rieutenant Nicholson and Rieutenant Williams. regret missing the wonderful show. Details of the Wrotham Picnic were discussed, and several seats were booked for the coach. Three new Annual Members were made during the past month. Canterbury Branch. A great recruiting campaign has now begun in the Branch. Names and Addresses of Old Buffs in the district (not yet members of the Associa­ The Monthly Meeting of the Canterbury Branch was held on June tion) were read out at the meeting, and enrolment forms were issued 5th, Mr. Holloway taking the Chair. The Minutes of the previous to members present, and each one is to do his best to make two new meeting were read, confirmed and signed. No correspondence was members. The competition by members to bring in the first two is received during the month so other business was seen to. great, but, yes there are no prizes. The members turned out very well for the 2nd Battalion 5113. “ At Home,” and no less than 80 made the journey through the Branch arrangements, and there were others there who found their own way. I wish to thank all members from Herne Bay who supported us on that great day, also. A.E.M. NOTICE. We would remind our readers, and all interested Folkestone Branch. in the welfare of the Past and Present Associa­ The main item of news this month is, on behalf of this Branch, to offer, to Colonel Crookenden and the 2nd Battalion our very sincere tion, who live within motoring distance of Dover thanks for the excellent time they gave us on Sunday, June 7th. The that “ D ” Company, 4th Battalion in conjunction weather was none too kind; but it did not prevent the parade, etc., being carried but as intended and we all feel that the Battalion must with the Dover Branch, are holding a be heartily congratulated on the undoubted success of the day. The old-time display was undoubtedly a great hit and " shoulder vour FETE AND FAIR AT THE DRILL HALL, ON firelocks ” is quite a catch-word among the members of this Branch. 8th AND 9th JULY. THE DRAGON 241 1 1st Battalion. REGRET that owing to his way back to Australia. We were relieved the call of duty the to see him as he was believed to be twenty- lateI Sub-Editor has departed four or more hours overdue. to the convict settlement, Mingaladon is fast becoming an air centre. and his mantle has fallen The French and Dutch mails arrive weekly. upon my shoulders ; a task The Imperial are at present a bad third. which I vainly hawked However, it is to be hoped that they will soon round before I was firmly catch up and get ahead of their rivals. I always informed that the decision think that when critizising British concerns did not rest with me. Yeh one is very apt to lose sight of difficulties ' hukm hai, ham hukm mante that other firms do not have. In this case hain. it is the crossing of the Sea of Timor, a 500 We send our heartiest miles hop with generally a strong head wind congratulations to Colonel when going south, also there is the 1,500 odd Crookenden and the 2nd miles from Port Darwin to the south over a Battalion on being ordered trackless and featureless desert. to take over the Guards' duties in town. It The trouble in Burma is having the effect was reported here that this honour had fallen of increasing the military population. The to the 1st Battalion. Although there are many 1/17th Dogras arrived this month. The re­ here, including the writer, who would like a mainder of their brigade (Secunderabad) is run home at the expense of the Government, rumoured to be arriving shortly. All moves we felt that we could not press our claim. are reported early either from the gymnasium, We must also congratulate N. Reeves on or from the ration stands. winning the Army Golf Championship. The The 3/20th Burma Rifles have gone north idea of finishing a round by moonlight appals again, and their place in Rangoon has been one who can scarcely hit the ball straight taken by "B” Company 52nd Eight Infantry. even with the best of light. We had also hoped May I through these columns extend a hearty to hear that the team championship had been though belated welcome to this salubrious collected as well, but better luck next time. spot. The leave season is in full swing. Those remaining are beginning to shew signs of wear, Association football is beginning to come • into its own again. Several trial matches though a bird whispered to me that this is have been played. The battalion first eleven caused by the issue from the Adjutant's office of a very comprehensive list of lectures, tewts, played the Rangoon Police and won 5 to nil. discussions and papers for promotion, etc., At the same time the second eleven was which, in the words of Macaulay, makes defeated at Insein by 2 to nil. ".those in front cry back and those behind It is hoped to get rugger going, and here . cry on.” I gather that “A” Company hopes to gather On May 28th "B” Company embarked roses all the way. The result remains to be; for Port Blair and “D ” . (M.G.) Company seen. marched into Sale Barracks to relieve them. I enclose a photograph of the very fine The King’s Birthday is to see the battalion Dragon which the Pioneers have built outside taking part in a route march through Rangoon the guard-room. with the detachment of The 52nd Eight Infantry and the A.F.I. Football Notes. The rains were not kind to us on Albuhera Hello ? Hello ? Hello ? Mingaladon—Burma Day. The tap was turned on at a very early Calling ? ? ? ? ? Whilst in England all eyes are on the" hour and as a result the programme arranged county cricket matches now in progress, we in Minga­ had to be cancelled with the exception of ladon are just commencing the Football Season. The the All Ranks’ Dance, which was held in the battalion, after a series of trials, have got together a very useful side. Most .of last season’s stalwarts’ Gymnasium and was well attended. faces can be seen in the team. In this respect however, Early in the month Wing-Commander we are very sorry to lose such players as Hobbs, Biddle,. Kingsford Smith arrived from Australia in Lawson and Elgie, who proceed with their Company to Port Blair on the 28th May. It will cause the selection his celebrated aeroplane the Southern Cross, committee many anxious moments filling their positions, en route to Akyab. He stayed the night especially those of Hobbs and Liddle, However, we in the Mess and returned a few days later on have some useful talent in the making and' hope' to 242 THE DRAGON produce capable substitutes in the near future. We On Monday, 4th May, we were challenged by the eagerly await the return of “C” Company fjrom. Port Officers to uphold our honour in the swimming baths. Blair on the 7th June, from whom we hope to be able to They, being" very short in numbers, were certainly strengthen a few positions (Sgt. Tutt, of course, for. the handicapped from the start, and events had to be centre-forward berth). The battalion have entered limited. It is understood that arrangements are a side-in the Rangoon Senior Teague and we sincerely being made for a future, competition to be held, in hope to emulate the feats of our predecessors (The which there will be events suitable for our long-distance Camerons). swimmers, notably the R.Q.M.S., C.S.M.’s Beasiey Saturday, the 23rd May saw us opening the season and Burt. The latter has recently discovered his powers with a friendly encounter with the Rangoon Police. as a water diviner, we have yet to see to what extent In this game, we. were superior in all. departments than he will put his powers to use. our opponents and ran out winners to the tune of 5-0. We >,won the “ Plunging” with Sgts. Meakin and The main feature of this game was the play of our half­ Perry against the Commanding Officer and Captain backs, who easily held, the opposing forwards. Allen, the Commanding Officer proving a surprise for Crampton, in goal, was rarely troubled; in fact I think most of us. Captains Essell and Fox were too good he had two kicks throughout the game. Liddle and for Sgts. Perry and Curliss in the High Dive. Hobbs a t: Back showed a good understanding and In the " Comic ” Relay we were victorious, the rarely allowed, the visitors to cross their line. Our contestants being:—C.O. v. W.O. Dodds, Captain chief weakness was at forward, where many golden Allen v. C.Q.M.S. Pratt, Captain Robertson v. Sgt. opportunities' went begging,' indeed if they had found Chambers, Lieut. Martin v. O.R.Q.M.S. Hall, and Lieut, anything: like their form • double figures would easily Sankey v. L/Sgt. Farrell. have been recorded. However, it was quite a very The Officers had their own back in the " pucca ” satisfactory beginning and showed promise: of better relay, which brought points all square, so it was decided results in the near future. The game was in the hands on Spring-board diving with teams of four, and we of the.well-known referee—Sgt. Dolbear—to whom great were just lucky enough to win. credit must be given for the way in which he controlled the1 game. Our team lined up as follows :—Goal : Certain non-contestants are now frequenters of the Crampton ; Backs :• Hobbs and Liddle ; Half-Backs : baths, presumably to acquaint the selectors of their Marshall,. Harlow- and Morris; Forwards : Newbury, prowess, notably Dolbear of "M.G.” and Thomas the scribe. Lawson, Curtis, Coade and Bing. , Turner has been busy lately making model aero­ Saturday,, the -30th May, saw us in action against planes, and we were rather disappointed to learn that the Burma Police, who gave us a very good game. they are simply to be aimed at. Rumours of appoint­ For this encounter several new faces were introduced ments to the Imperial Airways staff were very strong. and some, of the others were tried, in new -positions. He has now developed a craze for Armoured Cars, We were beaten 2-0 after having the majority of the doubtless having in mind the prowess of Sinclair on his play. Our goalie has seldom made such glaring mis­ motor bike. takes as. he did in presenting the visitors with their The A.F. (I) continues to attract. Sgt. Larkin goals.- The backs, Newbury in particular, performed has left us, Sgt. Richardson has been lucky enough to creditably. The, wing halves were quite good and did get posted to the same battalion and they are how a iot of useful work, but at centre-half,. Harlow was together again. Richardson reports his progress as quite off colour. Our main downfall was the lack of a M.G. Instructor. Others are still keen to go. understanding in the forward line, the whole line failing to combine, only Farrell and Coade showing anything It is rather hot these days, and not really comfort­ lite their true form. The visitors , adopted the policy able, but certain projects loom before us to keep us of .keeping the ball ‘ on the carpet,’ whereas we mostly occupied. “B” Company at Rangoon are reported to found the leather1' in the air.’ Their policy proved be'on intensive revolver training. C.S.M. Burt likes successful and so they, with a slice of luck, retired to spend his afternoons in the range area, C.S.M. Beasley winners. A/Drum-Major Richards was. ' Knight of is working out a Mess Totalisator for the opening of the the Whistle' and performed Very creditably. Our racing season. C.Q.M.S. Pratt can be seen distributing team; was ;—Goal: Crampton; Backs: Newbury and extracts of “ Parade Procedure ” to those who are not Bing; Half-Backs :• Marshall, Harlow and Morris ;- fortunate enough to have a copy, and C.Q.M.S. Ravens- Forwards : Marsh, Davidson, Whitehead, Coade and croft, when not engaged in gardening, is trying to perfect an automatic process for the marking of equip­ Farrell. ment. Later.—The R.S.M. and R.Q.M.S. have safely Sergeants’ Mess. returned after an enjoyable ten days, being relieved by Taking events in strictly chronological order, our Woollard who returns with “ Shikari” tales. hearty congratulations are extended to Sgt. Warren A Whist Drive and Dance was held on Friday, 15th, on the occasion of his marriage, and we await the as a commencement to the wet season programme. opportunity to welcome the bride to the Mess. The B.-M. is to be congratulated on winning the first Incidentally, its a strong gamble who will be the next to place. Incidentally, is it more lucrative than bridge ? join the happy throng, Woollard now only leading by The Durry was taken up, not as was rumoured, that a short head, some dark unknowns having made rapid bridge might not be interrupted. advancement. • Albuhera Day was too wet to deserve any mention, The Battalion Athletic and Shooting Teams having except that an All Ranks Dance was held, and we had returned from Maymyo, it behoved those unfortunate to content ourselves with memories of past years. enough not to accompany them to ascertain the ways Sunday, 17th saw the first round of the Mess and means of visiting that delightful place (of which Revolver Cup competed for, C.S.M. Farrow being top a very illuminating and descriptive account is given by scorer with 79 out of 90. Absentees competed on Thos. F. J. Pratt in his reminiscences about to be Thursday and Meakin surprised us all by winning with published),' and the exodus commenced with the R.S.M. a total of 81. Sinclair was third with 78, and the and RjQ.M.S. paying a brief visit of ten days to have A/S/S with 77. their grinding organs attended to. Meanwhile, The congratulations of all are offered to “Archie” A.F.B.-256 Contains the names of quite a number of who incidentally deserved his victory, being the only members*' I wonder, will it work ? ...... one properly dressed. THE DRAGON 243 244 THE DRAGON

The 22nd saw the re-commencement of our win. Glasby had rather a bad cue to play with, where­ Quarterly Mess Dinners, which was voted a great success. as Button had the use of a private weighted cue. Also, Including visitors, 50 attended, and the Musical Glasby let his opponent get too far the lead and was Programme was both delightful and varied. unable to pick up in time. Button had a certain Our chief contributors to the success of the evening amount of luck attached to his win, although the fact were our Padre (who gave._us "Bill Adams), S/S. of being one of the finalists proves his worth as a Hubbard, C.S.M. Burt, Sgt. Meakin, C.Q.M.S. Pratt billiard player. Button won 31. The tournament and C.Q.M.S. Hancock. • produced many surprises and a few dark, horses were Bandsmen Davis and Clegg deserve special mention discovered. The next tournament is going to be a for their renderings and' assistance. "sealed handicap” which should prove amusing. Later, a great number obliged and I am sure the A sealed handicap is run as follows :—Each player, programme will prove interesting reading to those who just before he starts to play his game draws a sealed know these artistes :— envelope and puts it in his pocket, plays for half-an- hour and after the game is finished he opens the R.S.M. E v a n s...... Recitation: “ A large spoonful.” envelope and finds out what is his handicap, so it is C.S.M. BurT.. — ...... i"The Barmaid's Song.” quite possible that although he may have won his game B. M. Saumon:...... " I want some money.” in half-an-hour’s play, with the sealed handicap, he Sgt. Meakin ..." Landlord fill the flowing bowl” may lose. This gives everyone a chance of winning a (and he did too!) prize. It is proposed to alter the conditions of the Sgt . Meakin ...... " Macaroni. ’' monthly tournament every time so as to make some Sgt. Mea k in —....." I. wish I were a dog like you.” variety and to ensure that it is not always the best C. Q.M.S. P r a t t ...... “ I’m 21 to-day.” players that will win. Cpl. Button, the last month’s C.S.M, Beasley..." Take me back to dear old Blighty.” winner, is being presented with a handsome weighted (I really believe he meant it, cue and case. the way it was sung). C.S.M. Beasley..." She's a lassie from Lancashire ” We are sorry to hear that Tiny Deverson is in (and not named Carmen). hospital yith Bronchitis. We hear that several of his T h e Pa d r e...,...... “ It's a great surprise to me.” admirers have been to see him and have taken him C.Q.M.S. R avenscrofT...... “ Parley Vous.” luscious gifts of " bananas, etc. We hope that he will Sgt. F aulkner..." I’ve seen diamonds in Amsterdam.” soon be "'up-” and about again. Sgt. Curliss.!...... “ Tipperary.” Tom Smith is also on the sick list. We do not know Sgt. Tu rn er..." If you were the only girl in the world.” if there is any connection between the two cases. Sgt. Parrett...... It’s a long, long trail.” ...... Sgt. Thomas...... " High, high up in the Hills.” Sgt. Chambers...... "M y Meatless Day.” Sgt. H opkins..." I would’nt leave my little wooden “D” (M.G.) Company. hut for you.” During tlie past month we have had rather a busy time. What Sgt., W aters...... “ Put me amongst the girls.” with preliminary training, firing, and preparing to train about seventy Sgt. Sinclair— Great big wonderful Doll.” young hands, there has not been much time to compile these notes. W;0. Dodds..." Another little drink would’nt do us I mentioned last month that No. 13 Platoon were passing out any harm .” prior to firing their Annual Machine Gun Course, the result o! which was very satisfactory. The preliminary training and finally the Sgt. Dolbeak...... "Nelly Dean.” machine gun test is a very necessary item on our programme, especially SGT.. W aTson;.." Oh ! Oh! Oh! it's a lovely war.” when we have to find all sorts of duties which interfere with our gun C.S.M. F arrow..." My Rifle is my sweetheart.” ...... training. This, combined with the climatic conditions of the country we are in, makes it very hard for everything to run smoothly. In Finally, we were reminded that " Oscar ” still lives, England men can fire their course at any time of the day, whereas out here we cannot fire after about 7 a.m. in the morning or before and the hole in the road still exists; Sgt. Crump S p.m. at night; it is too hot during the day to attempt to do anything demonstrated that " Mesmerism ” is only a matter of on the range. Then again, at this time of the year, even these arrange­ concentration and practice. ments are liable to be altered owing to the monsoon rains. S top P ress.—"D” (M.G.) (always please remember The most important event of the month to the majority of us was the brackets !) have proceeded on Detachment at the change of Station. About 5.30 a.m. on the 29th, we started off from Mingaladon by march route, and after getting halfway to Rangoon Rangoon, iii relief of “B” who sailed to the Andamans we halted for about three-quarters of an hour and had the char and on the. 28th, wads which the P.R.I. had arranged to issue. I understand that the C.S.M.. Beasley has been appointed chief Dart Cook-Sergeant had so much tea and so many cakes over that he returned to Mingaladon sirith about a quarter of the amount he brought out to : Instructor at “H.Q.” and C.S.M. Burt at Rangoon. serve ; certainly an unusual occurrence where troops are concerned ! They are how only waiting for the President to produce However, we started on the second part of the journey, everybody the boards. feeling greatly refreshed and although very uncomfortable in our dothes and equipment, which were absolutely saturated with perspira­ Sgt. Thomas is reported to have greatly improved tion, we eventually arrived in Rangoon about 10 a.m., and relieved his health since advised to visit the local " spa.” “B” Company, who in turn will relieve “C” Company at Port Blair. Apropos to the bridge question referred to in the A twelve mile route march at home is probably nothing mudi to worry April Dragon, the case has been withdrawn, the about, but out here it is exactly the opposite, as no doubt a great many of the recently-joined draft will now agree. As is always the prosecutors failing to produce their evidence. This case, everything was upside down for the remainder of-the day, but result may, also account for the brightness of we eventually settled down and made up for the sleep lost during the countenances of Thomas— previous night through having to get up about 3 a.m. The Mess piano is to be disposed of. When? We are only about a mile from the places of interest in Rangoon, Perhaps when the B.M. reports the band available for but I think everybody will agree that we have lost in the deal in changing, over. Extra precautions have to be taken in these barracks the funeral march. and consequently more money has to be spent to safeguard the health of the troops. At Mingaladon the barracks are practically new and do not harbour mosquitoes to any great extent. The few that are Corporals’ Club. taere are reported to be non-malarial. I think all the mosquitoes in the station have chosen our present barracks as their headquarters, There is very little to report for this month, the so it was decided as soon as we arrived here to form an anti-malarial only thing being the result of the billiard tournament. squad. It is their duty to wage continual war against this insect by spraying out. all barrack-rooms at night, but even these people The finalists were Cpl. Button and L/Cph Glasby. cannot do wonders and the lectures and precautionary methods to take The game was 250 up, and the result was rather a against dengue or malaria cannot be emphasised too much, the result surprise. Cpl. Button was the winner although L/Cpl. of which, to a very great extent, depends on the individual. Glasby was the one whom most people thought would P.F.P. H DRAGON THE

1st Bn. Athletic and Tug-of-War Teams. Burma District Sports, 1931 246 THE DRAGON

Headquarter Wing. 10. Sketch ...... “ The Perfect Day ” ... The Queries. There has.not been a great amount of sport, etc., during the.past This was an amusing little sketch enacted in the Recruiting Office, month, and-with the same steady old.pace we;go:through life with’the • and. kept-the audience in roars of laughter. The scene was the interior little events and happenings as usual. of-the Recruiting Office, bedecked with alluring posters which .held The Boys have been doing great things in.tlie.way of weapon training, such legends as “ Join .the Army and See the World, Join the Air haying been loaned rifles from .the stores. Our little sketch shews Force and See the Next.” Enter the Recruiting Staff—the Officer ( how Boy Goodban (of Ramsgate) ..made his acquaintance with The resplendent in red tunic, was a picture, as also was the.-Sergeant, rifle bayonet, dummies and targets. He is the smallest Boy, and resplendent in buff and bine ribbons, etc. The first likely candidate when all the Boys are together armed like'this, they really look a savage was Augustus Algernon, who wished to join the Army (to use his term;: lot of brutes, and the rebels certainly.have good cause to beware. “ Your jolly old Army ”). He departed satisfied, being duly attested. Two more.parties of the'Wing have completed their Annual Weapon • Next came a yokel, whose bearing loudly proclaimed “ The Farmer’s Training Course with equally good results as the first party to fire. ' Boy:” He equally loudly demanded to be- enlisted for the -Band, Now only the Band;and a few that were sick, etc., have to fire, and we his musical abilities being mouth organs, gramophones and Jews haTps, hope that they fire-as well, and- then the Wing will be practically all with occasional turns at turning over the music for the B.M. Asked Marksmen. the reason he wished to join the Band, he admitted that he did not In last month’s notes I made the mistake of saying .that the Wing like work, and he had heard;No.'3 Group say. the Band were excused had won the Harris Shield for two years in succession, but this .should fatigues. This’brought a great deal of applause from parts of the have read “ three --years.” We held; a concert in the dining-hall to audience. He being attested, went on his way. Next we have the celebrate the event. on the 26th, but as our old correspondent P.B. return of Augustus Algernon with his lady love, begging to be allowed Ayesal, T.X., has written all about it,- there is no need for me tomention to remain with her, and an extensive scene of love-making such as anything more. any self-respecting Recruiting Staff could not Bring itself to witness ■ As regards concerts, we hope to have; more in the near future now followed and was repeatedly stopped by the Sergeant. 'Certain that the rains have'started so that, worked ;in-with the .battalion difficulties followed, but these were speedily removed by the arrival concerts, we can have one practically every other-week. If they are of the. asylum keeper foT his strayed charges, Augustus Algernon and as' greab'a success as the Harris Shield one there will be no need Tor the his lady love. Exit all, Staff included. lads to go out in. the wet weather for entertainment. Between the 10th and 11th items the Company Commander artwe ! > . . • G.W.F. to “ Give us a few words” as‘he said, and though he-did.not'mkke a speech,, he packed a great deal into his few words. . ; H eadquarter ;;Wing Celebration Concert. 11. .Song “ I ’ve go t .Rings on my Fingers ” ... “ Always be Merry and Bright ” ... •A Grand Concert was given by.the-Wing in the Company Mess EiisuT.-Colonel j . v . R. J ackson,. Room on-‘the evening of May- 26th, 1931, to celebrate the winning of the Dord Harris Shield'for the third year in Succession. The Colonel, always ready with songs, was here again and being a The ooncert-was well arranged and very, well carried out, resulting great advocate of Community Singing, we were all requested to “ help in a huge-success. him out,” which was promptly carried out. We oiler our heartiest congratulations, to the members of the Com­ 12. V io lin S olo .... “ Danny Boy ” ... Bdmn. Davis. pany Entertainment Committee for- their splendid efforts to produce A very popular, air and was very well rendered. Bdmn. Davis the concert, which -was carried out like clockwork. The items were proved himself as good a violinist as a singer and earned equal applause. very well put up and with a decided variety," for which we have to thank the Bandmaster and'C'.SJM. Beasley.' We also offer our congratulations 13. Song ...... “Influenza” - Sgt. Meakin. to the Company 'Messing Staff' under C.Q.M.S. Pratt, who worked “ Macaroni * well on the serving of refreshments and seating accommodation. Archie was there-again with .his: favourites, old and new. The I ..; ... “ Tom o’ Devon ” ... Bdmn. Davis. Here we were in our . element. A number of old popular. songs Eyen though Bdmn.-Davis has sung before in the battalion concerts, were played and. the Community Singing commenced. The Coloitei he is comparatively fresh.'to us, but I must say he sings exceedingly was well to the front and everybody followed his example. The'room well and has made a name in the battalion which will appear frequently was rocking with the sound of voices. The audience were not satis­ upon the B.A.D.'s programmes (at least we hope so !). fied with one helping and would have carried on for hours, but time did Some of us remembered the A/S/Sgt. giving this song at the not permit. “ Queries ” Concert at Ranikhet last year, and ! think we must all “ God Save the Kin g .” ; agTee th at he gave this .song even better this time, earning great The concert started at. 9 p.m. and ended at 12 midnight. Thus applause. " ended a very happy time. Of course the lads are haw in high hopes '5. Stories - ...... “ Some more stories ” ... Sgt. Meakin. of. winning the Shield next year; I t is no tiling' unusual for Sgt. Meakin'to tell stories, and this time In dosing, I would like to congratulate ail who. took' part; in the he tried very hard to’ beat the Bandmaster. The attempt proved arrangement and management of the concert, and wish the Company very much in oUr favour as he produced some very good yarns. .; every success in the fight for the Harris Shield next season- on behalf 6. F lute' Solo ~ > “ Simple Aveu ” ... Bdmn. P erry.- of the lads who will be among the departed, the T.X. Wallahs. Though we shall be- at- home in various parts-of Blighty-we. shall .all follow We have often heafd'Bdmn. Perry’s picolo solos and-thought how the movements of the Wing and hope to see them walk away with the good they were.- J His fiixte solo also was very well rendered and.'he ; Shield for many years to come. was compelled to repeat the piece as an encore. ' ' r : P.B.'Ayesal, T.X. ■ 7. Monologue ’ * ‘I;J6an' Deprez ” ... C.S.M. Burt. . Our old- favourite of the “:Spotty ” fame was well up to his form with “ Jeari Degree”?• lThis,was,a very fine monologue.and he certainly did it justice, to say the least. 8. Fox-Trot; ,.. ' “.Blue'Again ” ' - .‘5v . Th e Buffs. Symphonic R hythmic Orchestra. NOTICE. This was the last i^em. before the interval and was very well given forming a fitting dose. to the’first'hialf. of. the programme. CANTERBURY CRICKET WEEK. . .. INTERVAL. Eight refreshhients were served during the interval in the form a I sandwiches, and. the concert was resumed after.-a short period. 3. : F ox»Xrot‘ I Haven’t Heard'jfWord from Baby .7- ' ' Th e ^Buffs Symph’oniC? R hythmic, Orchestra. This bdng the-^first; item of . the!'second' half was.equhl to its ' . August 1st, 3rd and 4th. K ent ,v . S o m erset. predecessors and was-a-lively tune, Bdmn. Davis giving voice to. the words as in the two previous fox-trots. 5th, 6th and 7th. K ent v. Derbyshire. THE DRAGON 247 The 2nd Battalion. HE outstanding event On June 4th the battalion took part in the T recently was the great King’s birthday parade, which was a brigade gathering of old Buffs as affair. The 1st Battalion Sherwood Forresters the guests of the battalion trooped their Colours and The Buffs found three on June 7th. Over 800 guards. veterans turned up, every On June 16th a guard of the battalion, Branch of the Past' and under Lieut. F. G. Crozier, took part in a Present Association being ceremony attended by the Mayor of Folkestone well represented. The at the Canadian War Memorial in the Military Church Parade under Lieut. - Cemetery, and Captain N. G. Wale placed a Colonel Crookenden was in­ wreath on the memorial. Lieut.-Colonel deed an inspiring sight, and Crookenden represented the Brigade Com­ it was evident that these mander and delivered an eolquent eulogy. ______old soldiers—some of whom wore the Zulu medal—had The battalion is now in the thick of Com­ not forgotten how to march. A full account pany Training, and during the first two weeks of the day’s activities is specially reported of July will be doing Battalion Training.: elsewhere. * After this each company is going independently on a three days’ trek. This will give a good On 29th May the battalion struck camp opportunity to see Kent outside the training at Hythe and returned to barracks. The areas. . results of the shooting were most creditable, and once again the battalion has improved on its previous year’s record. Before we 2nd Battalion “At Home.” began, various local worthies (who ought to On Sunday, the 7th of June, the 2nd Battalion know) had cheered us by remarking that all was At Home ” to all branches of the Past and Present regiments when they first fired at Hythe Association. invariably dropped on their previous year’s At about 9.15 a.m., the great " invasion ” of Napier Barracks commenced, and soon the square and. the scores. It is all the more satisfactory, there­ vicinity reminded one of mobilization at the early fore, to be able to give the lie to such gloomy stages of the last war. The London Branch came by forebodings. Here are the results :— train, the others by charabancs, all spare places in barracks being utilized as temporary car parks. By Results of Annual W.T. Course, 1931. 10.45 a.m., all parties had arrived and were met by Best Shooting Company : "C” Company. N.C.O.’s who acted as Branch guides. . Best Shot of Sergeants and Lance-Sergeants : Among those present were :—General Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell and Lady Lynden-Bell, Lieut.-Colonel Sgt. Field, “H.Q.” Wing. and Mrs. Crookenden, Colonel H. Findlay, C.B.E). Best Shot of Corporals and Privates: (Secretary) and Mrs. Findlay, Colonel W. H; Trevor, L/Cpl. Solley, “A” Company. Lieut.-Colonel and Mrs. Guy Lee, Lieut.-Colonel and “A” Company S h o t: L/Cpl. Solley. Mrs. Thomson, Major and Mrs. Morgan, Major Hamilton, M.C. (on leave from 1st Battalion), Major Foster, “B” Company S h o t: L/Cpl. Taylor. Major Keown, M.C., Major Keeler, Major Tomlinson, “C” Company S h ot: Cpl. Tee. Capt. Barton, Capt. Carter and Capt. Crothall. “H.Q.” Wing Shot: Sgt. Wass, Pt. I. ; The main attraction, prior to Church Parade, was L/Cpl. Banks, Pt. I I .; Pte. Mansbridge, Pt. IV. the viewing of the “ Colours,” the Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess silver and the battalion trophies which F igures of Me r it . were laid out on the sports ground. Battalion Figure of Merit, 1930: 8321. ; At 11 a.m., markers from all branches and the 2nd Battalion were placed in position by the R.S.M., in 1931 : 86.15. order of seniority, on the battalion sports ground. Companies Figure of Merit, 1931 :— The parade then formed up, under the command of “C” Company, 91 4 ; “B” Company, 90‘4 ; Lieut.-Colonel J. Crookenden, D.S.O., commanding “A”*Company, 853 ; “H.Q.” Wing, 79-2 2nd Battalion. (Rifle and A.A. only). Many ladies formed up with the men, and the senior member of each branch assumed command and The Bisley team has departed to compete prepared the party to move off. in various A.R.A. matches and we hope to It was interesting to note that, although it must hear great things of them. C.S.M. MacWalter, be many years since a great number of them were on D.C.M., M.M., who is accustomed to spend parade, the discipline and general steadiness were an annual and profitable holiday in those parts, outstanding. At 11.15 a.m., the parade moved off, the Drums was at the last moment unable to go as a of the battalion leading, followed by the Past Branches, Machine Gun Course at Netheravon had to the two companies of serving members marching in take prior place. rear. 248 THE DRAGON

About 800 marched to church and it was indeed a The Commanding Officer gave a handsome inscribed stirring sight to see the civilian battalion stepping out cup to the winning shooting team. Mrs. Crookenden as if it were an every-day occurrence. It gave the young kindly presented the following prizes :— soldier, looking on, some idea of what a full strength Winning Branch—Shooting :—Margate, the Cup ; battalion would look like, on the march. Winner—Silver Spoon :—Mr. Edwards (Ramsgate) ; The service was conducted by the Rev. E. A. Pitch, Winner—Wooden Spoon (lowest individual score)— O.B.E., S.C.P., and his address to the large congregation Mr. Bailey (Ashford) ; Winner—Wooden Spoon)— was very appropriate and stirring. The lessons were lowest Branch score :—(Ashford). read by the Commanding Officer and the collection was After the presentations, the Regimental March and in aid of Regimental charities. The King was played by the Drams. From then until After the service, and prior to dismissing the parade, the various branches started to go back at about 7.30 the Commanding Officer made a short speech of p.m., a general pow-wow and go as you please was welcome, and asked the Colonel of The Regiment to carried out. present a Tong Service and Good Conduct Medal to It was voted a very successful day and although 800 Sgt. Larkin. The General expressed his pleasure at went on parade, there was nearly a thousand visitors being asked to make the presentation and said that all told, in barracks. the medal was a hard-earned one. We hope, in future, now we are in our own county, Directly the parade was dismissed, lunch was served to see more of all branches ; such gatherings are good in marquees on the square, and in the Drill Shed. The for the mutual friendship and understanding of a very N.A.A.F.I. did the catering and everything was taste­ flourishing Association. fully laid out. The Commanding Officer, attended by In conclusion I must state that it was a pleasure to the Adjutant and the Orderly Officer, made a round of be “ At Home ” to such a good company of splendid the marquees and Drill Shed, and there were “ No fellows and one felt, that although the uniform had Complaints! ” in most cases been long discarded, the feeling of " Once After lunch, the 2nd Battalion gave a Historical a Buff, always a Buff ” was predominant. Display on the Sports Ground, depicting how the Au REVOIR. Regiment marched through the village of Blenheim Touchstone. to battle, in 1704. The visitors were then shown how a man was drummed out of the service in those days, and how a man left the service in modern times. The Sergeants’ Mess. uniforms were realistic and the troops were commanded Our new station is now at its best. Since our return by C.S.M. Emery, his colour-bearer being Sgt. McNeir, from the Musketry Front at Hythe, the sun is doing his drummer, Sgt. Allen, and the unfortunate man in its best, bathing. is in full swing, the nightingale has disgrace, Pte. Woods. repeatedly been heard, the C.O.’s new puppies are to A series of organized games were then held, Cricket be seen ambling about like new-born lambs, weeds (tip and run system). Billiards, Snooker and a miniature- are springing up like wildfire, and even Nobby’s glass range shoot, all branches taking part. case pets are to be seen pulling rollers over our new In spite of the weather being showery, things went tennis lawn, much to their amazement and our delight. off smoothly, and the results were as follows :— On the 18th May, all members attended a shoot on "D” range to contest for the “ Worthington’’ and B iix ia r d s .—Past: 323 ; Present : 536. “ Paget ” Cups. These cups are fired off for annually Snooker.—Past: 236 ; Present: 153. and competition is always keen. The first practices C r i c k e t .— Past: 65 all o u t; Present. 129 for for the “ Worthington Cup ” were as follows :— 4 declared. ' (1) 5 Rds. slow at 300 yards. H.P.S. 25. S h o o t in g . (2) 5 Rds.. slow at 500 yards. H.P.S. 25. Branch. Score. (3) 5 Rds. slow at 600 yards. H.P.S. 25. 1. Margate 145 C.S.M. MacWalter was the winner of the above- 2. 2nd Battalion 141 mentioned cup, with a score of 65 out of a possible 75. 3. Folkestone 132 The “ Paget ” Cup practices were as follows :— 4. Hythe 128 (1) 5 Rds. slow at 600 yards. H.P.S. 25. 5. Ramsgate 121 (2) Run from 600 yards to 500 yards and fire 5 Rds. 6. London 104 rapid. H.P.S. 25 ; Run from 500 yards to 300 yards 7. Medway 103 and fire 5 Rds. Snapshooting. H.P.S. 25. 8. Canterbury ... 90 Sgt. Osborne won at a canter with a score of 60 out 9. Sandwich 89 of a possible 75. 10. Heme Bay 82 As the range is comprized of nothing but shingle, 11. ' Dover ... 81 the last competition was more than a little strenuous, 12. Ashford 77 and many nearly fell by the wayside and expired. Herne Bay, although not actually registered as a Chummy Norwood refused to hurry, Goodsell’s spurs branch, presented a team for shooting, and as our saved him from sinking up to his elbows, and Wass’s motto was the more the merrier, they were allowed nautical roll got the better of a heaving landscape. to compete. If Herne Bay is actually forming a branch, “ Gandi ” Willing, coming back with a total score we should like to hear further about it, as we like to be of 109 for all practices, dived in a lucky bag held out by in touch with all branches, for reference to other out­ an obliging M.C. (C.S.M. MacWalter), drew out a 10 standing occasions. check and promptly claimed a silver spoon for his Two members, Mr. Edwards (Ramsgate) and Mr. trouble. Bushell (Margate) tied for the highest individual score, “ Fiddler ” (not so lucky) Duffy, having only got and fired off again, Mr. Edwards being the winner by just over a point for each round he fired, 49 to be precise, 19 to his opponent’s 15. also dived in, drew out a nine check, then went home to The Drums, under Drum-Major Duffy, rendered dream of the " Wooden-.Un,” and the possibility of an excellent programme during the afternoon, while being on duty or engagement when the next mess the various competitions were in progress and attracted meeting came off. a large audience. We must congratulate our very efficient President Tea was served in the same places as for lunch, of the Shooting Committee, on the smooth running after which the presentation of prizes took place. of all our shoots and the thanks of all are due to him THE DRAGON 249 for his untiring efforts in this direction. As he has Saturday preceding Whit Monday, when a number of won so many cups and spoons I suggest that when he us were enjoying a little refreshment in the Mess that returns from Netheravon his first handicap should he the Church clock boomed out 12. One member rose a tripod, and if that is not sufficient, the gun as well solemnly to his feet and announced in a voice filled (carried, hut not fired). with emotion, almost choked with sobs : “ My friend While still on jthe subject of shooting, we offer Bill has just got into double harness, here’s wishing him our congratulations to Sgt. Field on obtaining the best luck,” and that was the first we knew of it. Best of shot (Sergeants) badge. Sgt. McNulty, last year's luck to you Bill, may you live long and happily. winner, was only one point behind ; hard luck, Mac. ! At our Monthly Meeting in May the R.S.M. presented On Sunday, 7th June, as already previously the Billiard Prizes to the Winner and Runner-up. mentioned in this number, the battalion was at home to Cpl. Hobson, the winner, chose a silver cigarette case all branches of the Past and Present Association. Many and in response to the demand for a speech said : “I old W.O.’s and Sergeants were to be seen, and the Mess thank you all for the sentiment, what I know about was crowded out. We are always pleased to see old Billiards I must admit I learnt amongst you. Our faces and talk over old times. Our “ Honorary President gave me a very good game and I should like Memberships ” now total several hundreds, and as we to thank Cpl. Edwards for all the tuition he has given are now more or less central to local branches, we me.” expect to see still more of the " Old Uns.” The next, L/Cpl. Banks, was. presented with a set We congratulate Sgt. Larkin on receiving his Long of spoons. So strange, these young fellows having Service and Good Conduct Medal, especially on receiving such a whim for collecting spare parts of a complete it at the hands of our Colonel of The Regiment. home. Two other members, C.S.M. Ongley and Sgt. Ball, In reply he said : “ Wishing to keep the name of are due to receive this decoration shortly, and I hope Banks up, I collected six angels off the senior, but they are lucky to receive it from such a distinguished unfortunately we quarrelled and he took three of them Officer. away so I had to be " runner-up.” (We wonder did he Owing to the untiring efforts of the R.S.M., our mean angles). Sports Field is now looking something like the goods. We take this opportunity of congratulating L/Sgt. In a few weeks it has been changed from a wilderness Kennedy on his recent appointment. We hope yet to into a field worth walking on. A piece outside our see him a fully-fledged Band-Sergeant despite his 20 Mess has been sliced off and with a bit of luck we shall years’ service. Also L/Cpls. Butler, Kennedy, Axford, soon have our own tennis court. Carter, Biggs and Hadley, on their first appointments. The latest addition to our mess is a Radio- We wish them all they can wish themselves and will gramaphone, run entirely off the electric current. It is always be willing to help them any time they come proving to be a valuable asset to an already very along and ask. comfortable mess, and is a great favourite with the The Territorials have had the services of Cpl. Blanch, ladies. We hope to rim some small dances with its and L/Cpl. Barningham, the former as Range Taker aid, its volume being enough for quite a large hall. and the latter as Transport Sergeant, the Camp having We welcome into the fold, Sgt. (Darkie) Glover finished, we expect to see them back home to-day. from the 1st Battalion, and Sgt. Annon from the Depot. We are quite pleased to see Cpl. Richardson back Glover has already proved what a handy-man he with us again. Unfortunately he was taken seriously is, one accomplishment at least being Temporary ill at Hythe and we began to feel a little apprehensive Assistant Unpaid Master-Cook. He will also be an about him, but all’s well that ends well and he’s with us asset to our billiard team, being no mean exponent again as saucy as ever. of the white and red “ ghoulies.” The Band being at Worthing, takes our operatic Annon has not, apparently, lost his cunning with pianist. We miss his sonorous rendering of “ Tosti’s the poky-die pot and can still shuffle the cards to good ‘ Good-Bye,’” but no doubt he is entertaining others effect when the dice get too hot. with his solo efforts. C.S.M. Ongley, Sgts. MacNulty, Osborne and A full account will, no doubt, be found elsewhere Redman are now going all out for Bisley; we wish about the " Gathering of the Clans ” on June 7th, them every success and remind them that our shelves but we would like to mention that the Corporals’ Room have still vacant places for cups and trophies. was packed to the limit and everybody was deliriously T o u c h s t o n e . happy. Many an acquaintance was renewed and made on that day and it was quite a treat to see the old and young hobnobbing together. Corporals’ Room. To conclude the Musketry Camp, the Corporals held a Spoon Shoot on 19th May, the practices fired On entering the Mess a day or two back L/Cpl. including shooting and athletics. The first practice, Woolford, which being interpreted spells " Hank," application at 600 yards with half a gale blowing from was heard to be holding forth on a reputation he had to left to right and everybody hanging on like grim death keep up. We all thought we were about to learn a to their rifles. Practice Number Two was rapid at 500 secret but he lapsed into silence, and not another word yards after charging over 100 yards of beach to lie down could we get from him. exhausted and fire ten rounds, the whole practice to We are pleased to mention that L/Cpl. Jolley of “A” take 55 seconds. Company has qualified as Best Shot Corporals. and Cpl. Lee, one of our stalwarts, proved the winner of Privates for the W.T. year, 1931, and we congratulate the Silver Spoon and L/Cpl. E. Taylor, “B” Company, him on this effort. He tells us that Chicago can declare took over the duties of " Wooden Spoonist ” which war just as soon as they like; he’s properly prepared carries six months’ “ Show Clean” with it. What for it. a relief this was to the previous holder ; he immediately Cpl. Edwards, “M.G.” Company has left- us for a got into No. 1 S.W. and went into a well-known parking Course at the S.A.S., Netheravon ; we wish him the place in Hythe and celebrated the occasion. best of luck and a good result, but just a word of advice : As predicted in these columns three or four months Keep your ' Lydd ’ on.” Cpl. Stone has joined us ago, Bill Wheeler, our Indoor Entertainment President, after a tour of duty at the Depot and being no stranger has taken over more and important duties. It was on to us has settled down to the old life immediately. 250 THE DRAGON

“A” Company. It appears that “C’’ Company should be well represented at Bisley this year, for the following are amongst those who will probably have Owing to Company Training and the usual scribe walking away this honour:—C.S.M. Ongley, Cpl. Lee, L/Cpl. O’Connor, Pte. Martin, to Netheravon with the notes mixed up with crank-handle notes. The Pte. Belson, L/Cpl. Jones, Ptes. Addley, Warren and Goodman. Dragon notes will be very brief. On June 3rd we had 17 recruits join us and we wish them all the Sport was unable to be arranged at Hythe owing to space, but with best of luck. We also get another draft on the 10th. This should the Battalion’Sports so near, it is hoped that all are training hard, soon bring the company up to strength. and that the talent in the last drafts will prove itself. L.A.T.E. The Bisley team have taken two of the company—L/Sgt. Redman and Pie. Joynson—and we hope that they will produce results equal to those of C.S.M, MacWalter,' D.C.M., M.M., who is unable to attend “M.G.” Company. owing to a Machine Gun Course (“ the gun given for those who cannot Once again we are back and settled in barracks after our ten days hold a rifle ! ”). -Now C.S.M., do you still mean that remark ? at Netheravon. ; We congratulate the new appointments in L/Cpls, Axford, Biggs, We were unlucky this year in not being able to win the Control Hadley and Carter. Cup' Up to the present, I think that we stand third place. Our We welcome C.S.M. Sawcett to the company and hope that he is direct shoot -was our failure ; in this we only scored 80 odd- points. still keen on sport. . I cannot say who is to blame for this, but the. Competition Platoon Has B/Cpl. Gardener found out how they measure the group when made up for it in the indirect shoot, this being a complete record shoot all the. shots go through the white hole in the target ? with a score of 303. The night Shoot, I hear, was another record H eard on T raining. broken by us with a score of 132, making us a total score of- 513. In the Brigade 30 Yards Range Competition the company was Section Commander : “ Have you seen the enemy ? ” placed 1st, 2nd and 4th, as follows :—1st: No. 13 Platoon, 124 points ; P rivate : “ I ’ve got my eye on them, but I ’ve not seen them ! ” 2nd : No. 15 Platoon, 121 points; 4th : No. 14 Platoon,'64 points. E.D. Once again in this another record was broken, the previous highest score being 90 odd points. Not bad going, leaving Netheravon with three records. We are still waiting for the final results of the A.R.A. Competition, “C” Company. as up to the present we are the leaders. I know that everyone would Once again we are surrounded by the comforts of barrack-room life, very much like to see us win this competition. for the battalion returned from Hythe Musketry Camp on May 30th, On the whole the weather was good to us at Netheravon, though and none dared say that it was not the best camp we have been to for we had a few wet hours during our stay. quite a long time, but the weather at times was not too kind to us. In the football we were unlucky to be kiiocked-out in the semi­ Still, all these points are good training for the young soldier! final by the Machine Gun Company of The Foresters, who were the After a few days’ preliminary practice the annual course was winners of the Concentration Knock-out Competition. fired, and I am pleased to report that the company retain the honour In our last notes I omitted to say that Pte. Longley was easily the of being the best shooting company. Cpl. Lee is Company Shot for best shot in the Young Soldiers in the Battalion Rifle Meeting. the ensuing year, but. one of our mighty men (Pte. Belson), sad to relate, Congratulations, Longley, keep it up next year! was unfortunately forced to attend the service of “ Burying the Guns ” During the fortnight 1st—14th June, the undermentioned were as a mourner, for this man did fail to-hit the bull enough times to hold attached to the 4th Battalion as shewn :—Lieut. A. A. P. N.-Fearnside- the creditable position of Marksman. Speed (Brigade Transport Officer); Lieut. P. T. Connolly (Machine On Whit-Monday some of our athletes took part in the sports meeting Gun Officer) ; L/Sgt. Newell and Cpl. Blanch (Machine Gun and at Canterbury, and we congratulate L/Cpl. Hurley on winning the Range-Taking Instructors) ; Ptes. Pascall and Horne (Officers’ open mile, also L/Sgt. Trainkwon, who ran him a dose second. Servants). Our heartiest congratulations to Cpl. Wheeler on his marriage. The Territorial Camp this year was not so well placed as that of But, oh Bill! what a secret affair you did make of it. last year, and the weather did its best to make the camp a miniature Our Battalion Sports are now definitely fixed for July 10th and 11th, bog, but I will not say any more on this as fuller details will no doubt and by all doing their best to train during spare time we hope to main­ be found in the 4tli Battalion notes. tain our position of former years. Congratulations to “D” (M.G.) Company 4th Battalion on winning Our deepest sympathies are extended to Cpl. Lee in the loss of his the Harris Shield for 1931. father recently. The following have left the company for reasons stated:—Lieut. We all regret the loss of Lieut. Tuff, who left us for “A” Company. F. W. B. Parry to Wales for duty with the R .A .; Lieut. P. T. Connolly It is well known by all who are acquainted with the company what a to Woolwich for course on Barr and Stroud; Lieut. R. F. Parry and loss this is to our football and cricket teams. We have also lost a Cpl. Edwards to Netheravon for Machine Gun Course. We wish these valuable N.C.O. in Sgt. Wickham, who is now on a tour of duty at the the best of luck and may they come back with a “D.” . Lieut. C. Depot. Pte. Burgess, one of our cross-country experts, has also left Haggard, “B” Company, has also gone on a course at Netheravon, us for "A” Company. so no doubt we shall be able to welcome him to this company. A hearty welcome is extended to Lieut. Airy, and we hope that his ' Crankhandle. stay with us will be a long and happy one. We also welcome Sgt. Annan to our numbers, but already he is the centre of tremendous curiosity. This Brighter Cricket. On the 29tli we fired in the Company Shield match and finished up with the following scores and results S e n s a t io n a l S c o r in g b y B a n k s a n d B u f f s . Name. 600 yds. S00 yds. Snap. L.A. Total, B y "B.B.W.” Cpl. Patterson 3 0 36 49 Cpl. Wheeler... 12 7 21 52 A lot has already been written this season about Cpl. Yates ... 10 18 42 brighter cricket. Thanet Banks and The Buffs Depot Cpl. Lee 10 13 27 67 gave a practical demonstration of this speeding-up Cpl. Hobson ... 11 15 24 59 L/Cpl. Pox ... 7 4 27 48 business at Canterbury on Saturday, when 434 runs L/Cpl. O’Connor 11 7 39 66 were scored for the loss of eight wickets in the space of Pte. Redman 8 3 30 51 three-and-a-half hours. L/Cpl. Brigstock 7 4 26 Pte. Martin ... 13 15 43 The Banks won the toss and sent in Monfort and Pte. Belson ... 9 6 24 Howlland. The pair hit up 192 before Monfort was L/Cpl. Jones... 14 7 35 bowled by a beauty from Dawson. At 4.25 the innings was declared closed at 213 for Totals ... 115 81 222 two wickets. A longish tea interval intervened. 1st : “C” Company, 562 ; 2nd : “B” Company, 422 ; 3rd : Gilford, and Hudson opened for the Buffs at approxi­ “A” Company, 369. mately 5 o’clock. Ayris put down a maiden, hut mid­ It is interesting to note that for the same match in 1930 we finished 23rd in the Army with a score of 486, and in 1929 25th with a score way through his third complained of a strain and had of 501 ; by this our position should be improved. to give up. No. 9 Platoon this year fired in the Hopton Cup and obtained the Gilford and Hudson then helped themselves merrily following scores:— Name. Snap. Gas. Total. to 154 before the first wicket partnership was broken L/Sgt. Jackman ...... 15 16 31 by Howlland getting the former taken by Smith in the L/Cpl. Scallam ... 8 16 24 slips when he was only six short of a century. Pte. L e tts...... 7 9 16 The match resolved itself into an attempt to beat Cpl. Y ates...... — 11 11 Cpl. Hobson 3 14 17 the clock. Dawson hit a 6 off Howlland to win the Pte. Jenkins ... — 15 15 game with three minutes to spare. Sgt. Smith...... 3 9 12 Besides scoring 134 not out, Howlland kept wicket Pte. Clarke 10 13 23 for the greater part of the Buffs' innings without letting Totals ...... 46 103 149 through a single bye until he handed over the gloves to bowl; he then took four wickets for 40 runs. THE DRAGON 251 Beneath Bell Harry. ''JpHE past month has provided quite a number of functions of Regimental and other interest. First, there were the Whit- Monday Sports of the Canterbury Athletic Club, of which all of us are Honorary Mem­ bers. Great credit is due to Eieut. and Qr.-Master Andrews, who organised the meeting, which proved a social and financial success. The Depot entered a team in the open relay which, however, failed by a narrow margin to beat the very expert team entered by the R.E., Chatham. The 2nd Battalion relay team did well to gain third place in the open relay. Mr. Craddock ran a brilliant quarter mile for his team. L/Cpl. Hurley, Sgt. Trinkwon and Pte. Wilson were successful individual prize-winners. The Depot gym team gave an excellent display and each one Major Hamilton and Captain Andrews with some of the of the team is to be congratulated. Lady Competitors. Next came the excellent show put up by the 2nd Battalion, who were “ At Home " Cricket. to all Buffs on June 7th. Many went over M ay 20th. from Canterbury and all spoke very highly St. Augustine’s College, 77 (Dr. Hudson, 4 for 25, Bird, 5 for 15). Depot The Buffs, 43 (C.S.M. of the organisation and the entertaining. Williams, 18). On June 12th the Very Rev. Dr. Hewlett M ay 23rd. Johnson was installed with great ceremony Whitstable, 82 (Dawson, 7 for 21). Depot “A,” in the Cathedral. The Buffs were represented 53 (Dr. Hudson, 18). by the Colonel of the Regiment, and the M ay 25th. Depot by Brevet-Dieut.-Colonel Thomson. We Depot The Buffs, 116 (Lieut. King, 46*, Capt. Willows, 33). Goodnestone Park, 120 (Dawson, also noted Colonel Body, who drove General 5 for 54). Eynden-Bell over. M ay 21th. All available members went up to the Royal Marines, 75. Sgts., Depot The Buffs, 63. Dragon Club Dinner, which was quite one of M ay 30th. the best for many years. Kennington, 139 (Wickham, 6 for 32). Depot The The last event of importance was the Buffs, 92 (C.S.M. Williams, 22, Lieut. King, 21). June 3rd. wedding of Mr. Geoffrey Friend, son of Mrs. Royal Marines "A,” 161. Depot “A,” 75. Eucas, at Holy Trinity, Sloane vStreet, on June 0th. the 17th. Brevet-Eieut. and Mrs. Thomson, Faversham Gunpowder Works, 95 (Dawson, 4 for Captain Sandilands and Eieut. Eynden-Bell 16, Lieut. Gilford, 4 for 46). Depot The Buffs, went up to the ceremony, which was a great 108 (Lieut. King, 40, Col. Paynter, 16). June 10th. success. Coutt’s Bank, 153 (Wickham, 4 for 26, Gilford, We welcome 2/Lieuts. Gilford and Mathew, 5 for 63). Depot The Buffs, 15 for 3 wkts. R a in . Supplementary Reserve of Officers, who are June 1 \th. doing a two months' attachment at the Depot. 2nd Bn. The Queen’s Royal Regt., 114 (Wickham, We were pleased to see Eieut. Mitchell, 6 for 29). Depot The Buffs, 49 (Dr. Hudson, 18). who has returned from East Africa to get June 1 Ith. married, and spent a night here. Lefevres, 69. Depot “A,” 53. June 13 th. T e n n i s .—We congratulate Eieut. H. de E- Littlebourne, 29 (Gilford, 5 for 20, Wickham, 4 for Walters on winning the Hampshire Tournament 5). Depot The Buffs, 146 for 6 wkts. (Lieut. King, at Fleet. 62. Lieut. Gilford, 39). 252 THE DRAGON

June 14 th. R. Uniacke’s XL, 92 and 146. A Depot XI.—173 4th Battalion. (Capt. Willows, 41, Lieut. Tuff, 34, Lieut. King, 29). June 17th. ERE we are, back in 2nd Bn. The Lincolnshire Regt., 146 for 8 wkts. Kent again after a (Gilford, 7 for 55). Depot The Buffs, 78. H fortnight at Myrtle Groye Camp. We fear that many Sergeants’ Mess. may be glad to reach their During the past month the Mess has been re­ homes, as the weather decorated, and looks all the better for it. treated our short annual We have also held a Billiard Tournament between training with extreme un­ ourselves, all commencing level, to find talent to kindness. Rain started at accommodate the Corporals at some future date. Sgt. Petley proved the winner, with Sgt. Trice as Runtter- the end of the first' week up. and continued on and off, The Annual Billiard Handicap Competition for the mostly on, till the last two George Porter Cup has been revived, now that we have days of camp. However, the billiard table back in the ante-room, and the games all ranks remained very are in progress. i* - 1 On 26th May we held a -22 Rifle Shooting Match 5 [J cheerful and made the best against the Detachment, R.A.P.C., with the following of the mud and damp. results :— ; Buffs “A ” Team.—Grouping, 125. Application 114. Our numbers, in spite of the difficulties R.A.P.C. “A ” Team.—Grouping 120. Application of employers in sparing their men this year 103. and the fact that camp was a fortnight later Buffs “B” Team.—Grouping 125. Application 104. than in 1930, were quite satisfactory. Twenty- . R.A.P.C-. “B” Team.—Grouping 80. Application 85. one officers and 502- other ranks attended camp. Top scorers of Teams :— A particularly satisfactory feature of 1931 Buffs :—L/Sgt. Sivers with 44 out of a possible 45. was the question of eight-day men, as the R.A.P.C. :—Mr. Mortimer with 39. battalion was only eight men down on the On 27th May we played a Cricket Match against the Sergeants' Mess, Royal Marines Depot, at Deal, when change-over at the end of the first week. we lost by the narrow margin of 5 runs. Training progressed as well as could be Sgt. Wickham was our top scorer with 28, and he also did considerable bowling service, Sgts. Saunders expected in spite of the weather. and Papworth being our other bowlers, and Sgt. Rowe “D” (M.G.) Company are to be highly con­ proving a very efficient wicket-keeper. gratulated on winning the Harris Shield for Sgt. Baker and family have left us on rejoining the 2nd Battalion, where we wish them the best of luck. 1931 by half a point from “A ” Company. Sgt. Annan has also been posted to the 2nd “B ” Company were third and “C” Company Battalion, but family follow later. fourth. *I We welcome Sgt. Wickham from the 2nd Battalion, and also L/Sgt. Thorndycroft on his appointment to L/Sgt. Beneath Bell Harry—continued. Now that the Sergeants have taken up our challenge, Corporals’ Mess. I wonder if its possible to get a game with the trained According to the comments made in a certain men ? famous almanac. May is said to be a month of many We welcome L/Cpl. Honeybun to the Depot add happenings. trust the climate of Canterbury will agree with him. But before I attempt to write these notes may I, N o v ic e . on behalf of the Corporals, congratulate L/Sgt. Thorn­ H e a r d o n G u a r d . dycroft on his recent promotion. Our old friend, “ Ging. No. 1,” paid us a flying,visit A certain sentry had cause to challenge a person the other day, but he failed to mention anything about entering the gates one night. This is what happened : “ Ging. No. 2.” He recently left us for the bracing air Sentry : “ Halt, who goes there ? ” of Shomcliffe (???). Person ; " Friend.” As I prepare these notes I am informed that the Sentry : “ Advance friend to be recognized.” Sergeants have invited us to a series of outdoor games. The person did as he was requested, at the same We anticipate an easy win ? ? ” “ nuff said.” time pulling out his Regimental tie. Perhaps by the time these notes appear we shall have a Sentry : “ Pass Friend all’s well ????????” different tale to tell—who knows ? ? We . wonder what the guard commander thought ? ? The only thing that worries us is :—how many Sergeants read April’s Dragon ? ? Now that the tennis racquets have been repaired the game has become quite Trained Soldiers. popular with some of the members. Many thanks are Since the Great Fire there is very little to report. Thirst and due to Cpl. and Mrs. Hills for the way they have Alderson are awaiting their reliefs from the Battalion. Batty is endeavoured to prompt members to take an interest expecting to join the P ast; we wish him the best of luck. Our Cooks in the game. look quite a treat in their new bonnets; we suggest a turnip and ham bones for a badge, to take the bareness off. Stokes will know all the I have often wondered why some of the members Regulations regarding Dress, etc., when he returns from the School of don’t try and bring their own lady friends along. I Cookery. should imagine some good games could be arranged. w.p THE DRAGON 253

We were delighted to have Major Field, year in camp and to be held by the winning Captain Wood (Brigade Major), Lieut. Speed, company, except during camp period, when Lieut. Connolly and Lieut. Tuff, with a few it will be kept in the Sergeants' Mess. We specialist N.C.O.’s from the 2nd Battalion, would like to say how much these gifts are in camp with us. We only wish their numbers appreciated and to thank the donors most could be increased. heartily. The Colonel of the Regiment (Major-General The Signalling Section, numbering 1 officer Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell), accompanied by and 20 N.C.O.’s, all attended camp. We Colonel Burns, visited us on the first Friday congratulate 12 Signallers on passing their of camp. He inspected the camp and then annual classification. took the salute as the Battalion came in from Inter-Unit Cricket matches were arranged, training. His kind words on parade and but the weather only permitted us to play his congratulatory message afterwards were the 4th Royal West Kent Regiment, with fully appreciated by all ranks. whom we drew. If the score book has not We were also visited by Colonel Sir Henry been washed away, we will try to publish the Streatfield (Chairman of the Kent Territorial scores at a later date. Association), Captain Hopfield, Colonel Body, To end our notes we would like to say Captain Marchant, Captain Coote, Captain how glad we are to hear that Captain C. E. Wilson and many others. Wilson has been definitely selected as Adjutant Colonel Burns stayed several days during to the battalion when the vacancy falls due in December of this year. the second week, and if only he could have H.W. been in uniform it might have been 1930 again. We missed winning the Brigade Transport Cup by a matter of three points to the 4th Corporals’ Mess. At this year’s camp, acting on Colonel Collard's Royal Sussex. Nevertheless, the Transport suggestion, a Corporals’ Mess was formed. Cpl. Hadlow must be highly congratulated on the great of “B" Company was elected President of a Committee strides they have made this year. consisting of one Corporal from each company. The following were elected :— The Drums, under Drum-Major Tripp, "A” Coy. : Cpl. Fuller ; "B” Coy. : Cpl. Hadlow ; were in excellent form. They played retreat "C” Coy. : Cpl. Bilsbee ; “D” Coy. : B/Cpl. Thomp­ twice in camp and once at Worthing. We son. The committee have been fortunate in having are glad to be able to say that Drum-Major a fine large marquee tent placed at their disposal. This Tripp hopes to continue as Drum-Major in has been furnished with chairs and tables, and a bar has spite of his suggestion that he was getting too been arranged for the sale of refreshments, making it a old ! Without him—perhaps it is better not most comfortable room where the Corporals of the battalion may rest, and read the daily papers which are to think of that, but to know that he remains, provided. Thanks are due to Major Dean, V.C., for his we hope for many camps yet. generous help, Company Commanders for their subscrip­ For the first time in the history of the tions to the mess funds, and to the committee for the most efficient way in which they have carried out battalion a Corporals’ Mess was started in their duties. camp. Everyone will realise the importance H. A. H a d lo w , Cpl. of such a Mess, and we are sure the Corporals are deeply grateful to the Commanding Officer “D” Company. for his kindly forethought in arranging and Undoubtedly the activities of the battalion during Annual Training will be dealt with fully elsewhere in this issue and therefore we propose allowing their Mess to start. We hope this to confine ourselves this month to the activities which particularly new venture will go on from year to year affect this company. The chief item of importance is undoubtedly the fact that “D” and form as important a feature of camp Company were successful in winning the “ Harris Shield ” given to the most efficient company in the battalion both at Work and Sport; life as its other more senior brothers. Our congratulations are due to 2/I„ieut. A. C. Roberts, his Drill Platoon and Battle Order Relay Team for their splendid performances in being Our Medical Officer (Major Scott) introduced second in both the Drill Competition and Relay Race; also to Pte. another Medical Officer to us during camp— (popularly known in Dover as “ Sonny ”) Ridgewell and his Football Team for winning the Football. It is particularly good work on the Dr. Oliver by name,—who will, we hope, part of the Machine Gunners and “H.Q.” Wing to win the Shield as it is not possible to afford very much time to Arms and Platoon Drill join us shortly as we are allowed two Regimental without impairing the efficiency of these two companies in their Medical Officers on our strength. respective spheres. We last won the Shield in 1925, and now that we have got it, other companies will have to work hard to get it back for During the last few weeks the Officers’ Mess the next year or two. We were exceptionally pleased to see both Colonel E. B. Burns, received silver goblets from Colonel Burns T.D., our Tate Commanding Officer and Capt. D. V. Coote, our late Company Commander and we extend to them our sincerest thanks for and Captain Coote on retirement, and Major the splendid Cups they presented, the former giving a Cup for Guard Witts and Captain Mount on promotion. Mounting Competition at Camp and the latter for giving a Cup for competition during the Winter months on the Miniature Range between Colonel Burns has also presented a beautiful Dover and Folkestone Detachments. Capt. Coote expressed the hope silver challenge trophy for the Guard-Mounting that the competition for such Cup would help to cement the good feeling and relationship between the two detachments, and we can Competition. It is to be competed for each promise him that it undoubtedly will. 254 THE DRAGON

The Drains " Beat Retreat ’’ at Worthing on Thursday, 11th June, Baghdad Squad. before an audience of 1,500 people. This was the first time that such 6284690 Pte. W. J. T. Allen, 6284683 Pte. A. C. Anderson, a performance had taken place at Worthing and judging by the 6284699 Pte. E. G. Ballard, 6284700 Pte. A. Barlow, 6284673 Pte. F. applause it was a decided success. Sgt. Player, 1,/Cpls. Hadlow, and Baumback, 6284676 Pte. T. W. Buck, 6284692 Pte. F. C. Champion, Hammond and Ptes. Cadman and Smith are to be congratulated on 772811 Pte. A. E- Field, 6284685 Pte. J. Graham, 6284686 Pte. E. W. their turning out, in fine style, a six-horsed G.S. Waggon to convey Hankins, 6284695 Pte. J. W. Kibler, 6284686 Pte. R. Howell, *6284670 the instruments to the place of performance ; it was really marvellous Pte. O. German, 6284680 Pte. C. R. Martin, 6284696 Pte. C. R. McKay, the way that, headed by a motor-cycle Police Officer, the Transport 6284677 Pte. V. J. Milham, *6284684 Pte. Philpott, 6284678 Pte. J. H. arrived on Worthing Sea Front at a hard gallop. Prandy, 6284508 Pte. T- R. Sayer, 6284688 Pte. A. T- Songhurst, We would remind readers that the company, in conjunction with 2024206 Pte. E. R. Stickells, 6284681 Pte. H. W. C. Surridge, 6284081 the Dover Branch of The Past and Present Association The Buffs, are Pte. W. A. Turner, 6284697 Pte. G. H. Williams, 6284689 Pte. G. E. holding a Fete and Fair at Dover Drill Hall on 8th and 9th July in aid Wright. of local charities. All will be very welcome. •Remain in Hospital. J.S. The undermentioned, Sir Thomas Morgan Squad, were posted to 2nd Battalion The Buffs on 10-6-31 :— 6284710 Pte. G. E. Duffield, 6284706 Pte. A. N. Kelly, 6284709 Pte. W. E- Clements, 6284711 Pte. F. G. Smith, 6284707 Pte. J. Palmer, The Regimental Gazette. 6284705 Pte. A. H. Foster, 6284703 Pte. J. G. Chapman, 6284704 Pte. W. J. EUett, 764822 Pte. T. Moore, 6284713 Pte. H. G. Harding, 6284712 Pte. T- W. Gilbert, 6284715 Pte. G. Druggitt, 6284714 Pte. Officers. G. Bird, 6284717 Pte. K. Clarke, 6539735 Pte. G. A. Doe, 6284719 Pte. H. C. Russell, 6283653 Pte. G. H. Cork, 2025868 Pte. W. C. Hare, Territorial Army. 6284729 Pte. F. Williams, 6284728 Pte. T. White, 6284722 Pte. S. 4th Bn. The Buffs.—E. W. Tassell (late Cadet, Tonbridge Sch. Morgan, 6284723 Pte. S. C. Mendum, 6284721 Pte. A. C. Bevan, Contgt., Jun. Div., O.T.C.) to be Sec. Et. (May 23rd). 6284724 Pte. H. G. Holderness, 6284726 Pte. H. P. Wilkins, 6284661 Pte. F. Hover, 6284656 Pte. A. Jones. Territorial Army Reserve of Officers. Discharges. 4th Bn. The Buffs.—J. G. French (late Cadet Corpl., Haileybury Coll. Contgt., Jun. Div., O.T.C.) to be Sec. Et. (May 23rd). 6284750 Pte. E. F. Cox, discharged under para. 370 (vi) (a) K.R.’s, 14- 5-31. 6284776 Pte. S. Wensley, discharged under para.1370 (vi) (a), K.R.’s, The 2nd Battalion. 15- 5-31. Tong Service & Good Conduct Medal. 6284144 Pte. Iy. W. Bean, discharged under para. 370 (xvi) K.R.’s, 19-5-31. S278331 C.S.M. A. V. Ongley, “C” and 6279642 Sgt. H. Beil, “B,” 6284762 Pte. G. E. Barnard, discharged under para. 370 (vi) (6), granted Tong Service and Good Conduct Medal, with gratuity. IC K. ’s 22—5—31 6284906 Pte. C. A. Toram, discharged under para. 370 (vi) (a), Appointments. »g 8—6—31 6284608 Pte. W. Kennedy, “B,” 6284647 Pte. C. Butler, 6281378 6284638 Pte. G. H. Morgan, discharged under para. 370 (xviii), Pte. G. Vincent, “H.Q.,” appointed Unpaid Tance-Corporals, 2-&-31. ’g 11—6—31 6284150 Pte. W. Axford, “A,” 6284629 Pte. G. Carter, “A,” 6284760 Pte. F. R. Cross, discharged under para. 370 (v) (6), K.R.’s, 6284628 Pte. R. Biggs, "A,” 6198637 Pte. J. Hadley, “A,” appointed 9-6-31. Unpaid T/Cpls., 10-6-31. The 4th Battalion. 6283833 Pte. F. Charlton, “H.Q.,” 6550451 Pte. E. Rltham, “H.Q.,” 6278804 Pte. P. Stone, “H.Q.,” appointed Drummers, 12-6- Enlistments. 31. Transfer to Army Reserve. , The undermentioned recruit having joined the Battalion is posted to Company, as shewn, and borne on the strength as supernumerary 6282178 Pte. Wainwright (1st Bn. The Buffs), “A” transferred to to establishment in accordance with para. 159 (b) T.A. Regs. 1929 :— A.R., 6—6—31, 6284860 Pte. S. Byrne, "A” (S), attested at Sandwich, 15-5-31. 6282005 Pte. W. Sparks, “A” (1st Bn. The Buffs), transferred to A.R., 6-6-31. Promotions and Appointments. 6282080 Pte. C. Smissen and 6282181 Pte. R. Wainwright att. “A” (1st Bn. The Buffs) att. 2/King’s Regt., transferred to A.R., 6284832 Pte. E. Abate, “D” (D), appointed Drummer, 6-5-31. 6-6-31. ' 6284818 Boy E. Hogben, "D” (D), appointed Drummer, 12-5-31. 6282069 Pte. W. Hook and 5987926 Cpl. T- Edwards, 1st Bn. The 6282885 E/Cpl. J. Ives, “A” (R), promoted Corporal, 20-5-31. Buffs (Att. A.V.T.C., Chisledon) Att. “A” (Att. 2/Q.O.R.W.K. Regt., 6283067 Pte. W. Hammond, “B” (Iy), appointed Paid Eance-Corpl., A shot), transferred to A.R., 6-6-31. b ’ 20-5-31. 6282734 Pte. J. Blake, “A” (R), appointed Paid I^mce-Corporal, Strength—Decrease. 28-5-31. Transfer. 6284904 Boy T. Farbrace, “H.O.,” discharged, 11-5-31. 6284493 Boy P. Nye, “H.Q.,” discharged, 11-5-31. 4687518 Pte. J. Sheppard, “D” (D), transferred from 5th Bn. The 6284914 Boy V. Marshall, “H.Q.,” discharged, 30-5-31. K.O.Y.E.I-, 12-5-31. 4448805 Pte. J. Moore, “C” (H.K.), transferred from 7th Battalion The Durham Eight Infantry, 26/5/31. The Depot. 6285698 Pte. F. Bellingham, “C” (M), transferred to 314 A.A., Recruits. S.E. Coy., 26-3-31. Attested as sliewu :— Discharges. v- A* H - Milham, 16-5-31 ; S. T. Gander, 8-6-31 ; E. S. Discharged on Termination of Engagement as shewn :— Kelly, 10—6—31. 6283642 Pte. G. Bills, “B” (S), 15-5-31; 6283644 Pte. W. Barker, Appointment. “D” (D), 16-5-31 ; 6283648 Pte. G. Richards, “D” (D), 19-5-31 ; 1 _4 ^ 3 1 °253 Cpl‘ A‘ 'fkorndycroft, appointed Paid Tance-Sergeant, 6283650 Pte. F. Irons, “D” (D), 22-5-31 ; 6283664 Pte. E- Champion, 25-5-31; 6283664 Pte. E. Champion, “D” (D), 25-5-31 ; 6282121 P ostings. Dmr. Bowes, “D,” (D), 12-6-31. 6279332 Sgt. R. Wickham (2nd Bn. The Buffs), posted to Depot for a tour of duty, 20-5-31. 6278215 Sgt. J. Annan, posted to 2nd Bn. The Buffs, 20-5-31. „ 6283714 Pte. T. H. Alderson, re-posted to 2nd Bn. The Buffs, 31- 0—Ol» Strength—Decrease. STOP PRESS. _ The undermentioned were posted to 2nd Battalion The Buffs on It is regretted that “A” Company notes, 3—6—31 *—— J erusalem S quad. 1st Battalion arrived too late for inclusion ■ 6284644 Pte. T. A. Baldwin, 6284665 Pte. G. Bowers, 6284650 Pte. in this number. S. F. Bnce, 6284657 Pte. C. F. Davis, 6284652 Pte. A. J. Dutton, 6284669 Pte. G. G. S. Glover, 6284644 Pte. W. H. Glover, 6284660 Pte. J. Gregory, 6284642 Pte. A. Keay, 6284653 Pte. A. C. Teney, 6199770 ? te- H\.®- G- Eindsey, 6284672 Pte. F. P. R. McGiuley, 6284666 Pte. T. J. Mills, 6700486 Pte. R. Morton, 6734723 Pte. W. J. Nash, 6284667 NOTICE. Pte. H. B. Rackley, 6284643 Pte. C. T. Rayner, 6284651 Pte. H. G. Richards, 6284654 Pte. T. Roberts, 6284655 Pte. J. H. Rowe, 6284668 Would correspondents kindly help us Pte. W. A. Skinner, 6284645 Pte. G. S. Swift. by writing on one side of the paper only ? Post free- Ireland & Abroad. 8/- per annum. 4/- 6 months. 2 '- 3 months. W riter-Editor, Depot, The Buffs, Canterbury Telephone: 513. J l JlCCieb ■'Jftegtmenfs. ^lifCes of (Scmabct. ^ancoitt>er 3x*b ^affaCioTt (^errtroa gnfcivitvv) JlusfraC ian jJ&iCttar# fo r c e s.

N o. 381. August, 1931. Price Sixpence.

Our Colonel-in-Chief’s Home. 256 „ THE DRAGON Personalia. u Award of Decorations. Major-General Girdwood, a great friend’ of our Regiment, vacated the appointment |T IS iskaj.esty The King of Denmark has of Commandant of the R.M.C., Sandhurst, f l been .graciously pleased to confer the on July 1st. He takes up the command of : fallowing decorations :— Northern Ireland shortly. Lieut. ^Colonel. J. V. R. Jackson, Com­ manding 1st Battalion The BuffsC om m ander Of the Royal Order of the Dannebrog. General Sir Webb Gillman, G.O.C. of Major N. S. Hart, Second-in-Command : Eastern Command, hopes to be at our tent Knight of the Rojrnl Order of the Dannebrog. at the Canterbury Cricket Week on August 3rd and 4th. Lieut. D. C. Coates, Adjutant: Knight of the Royal Order of the Dannebrog. Lieut. H. J. Martin, Quartermaster : Knight Sir Theodore Brinckman, with his usual of the Royal Order of the Dannebrog. generosity, sent £5 for the entertainment in aid of the Regimental Benevolent Fund, R.S.M. E. J. Evans : Silver Medal of Award with Crown. which took place at Maidstone on July 17th. Bandmaster W. B. Salmon : Silver Medal of Award with Crown. The Depot was honoured on July 27th by The above decorations correspond with those a visit from the Honble. Sir John Fortescue, conferred by His Majesty on the occasion of his the distinguished Military Historian, who visit to the 2nd Battalion at Aldershot. before coming to the Depot with Lady Fortescue, witnessed the daily ceremony of the Turning the Page of the Book at the Warriors’ Major-General Sir A. Lynden-Bell, Colonel Chapel. of the Regiment, attended the Dover Branch Sir John has now sent a most valuable Fete on July 8th, the entertainment in aid of present to our Museum, namely, a copy of the Military Charities at Maidstone on 17th, from 1st. English Drill Book, dated 1573. The which the Benevolent Fund will benefit to the Colonel of the Regiment has written to Sir extent of £26, and visited the Depot on 27th John expressing the deep gratitude of the and 31st. Regiment for his most kind thought of jus in making this gift, the value of which will be The death of General Sir Alexander Cobbe, greatly enhanced as coming from him. V.C., Colonel of The South Wales Borderers, will be mourned by many Buffs Sir Edmund Davis, of Chilham Castle, who of the old brigade. One of the first times has subscribed so generously to our regimental we came across him was when he was a prom­ funds, lunched at the Depot Mess on July 31st. inent member of the fine South Wales Borderers’ Among others present to meet him were : rugby team which our 1st Battalion team Major-General Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell, General met and, after a severe struggle, defeated McDouall, Colonel Findlay and Colonel Thom­ in the semi-final for the Calcutta Rugby Cup son. The latter, after lunch, shewed Sir in 1892. He subsequently went to the Indian Edmund round the Regimental Museum, in Army and was one of the officers of The 32nd which he expressed great interest. Pioneers which came down from Gilgit to the relief of Chitral. There was a dramatic moment at Chitral Fort when The 32nd Pioneers met The Hanbury Gold Cup (five rounds) at the 1st Battalion The Buffs; which formed the Canterbury was won by Lieut.-Colonel Thomson advanced troops of the Chitral Relief Force and Captain King on the 25th green after hurrying from India' to save the gallant three apd a half hours' play. We offer our defenders of the fort. congratulations, We saw much of General Cobbe in after years and he often stayed with his cousin, We * hear of Colonel Groves Raines and the late Major C. C. Cobbe, of our Regiment. Captain Wilkins at camp near Morecambe He always said that when he was awarded with The Queen’s University O.T.C. ; later the V.C. (for conspicuous gallantry in Somali­ we notice that Captain Wilkins took 5 wickets land) one of the first telegrams of congratulation for the M.C.C. playing against Kingston he got was from The Buffs. Grammar School. THE DRAGON 257

Lieut.-Colonel R. Groves Raines and his Adjutant (Captain D. A. Wilkins) must feel very pleased with the remarks made by the Inspecting Officer at the Annual Inspection of the Queen’s University, Belfast Contingent, Officers Training Corps. We offer our con­ gratulations. We very heartily congratulate Miss Vera Lynden-Bell on the variety entertainment organised by her in aid of Military Charities which took place at Maidstone on July 17th. The turns were all good, and a very noticeable fact was that there was no delay between each, not, unfortunately, common to amateur entertainments, but a proof of sound organisa­ tion. The engagement of Mr. J. F. B. Gage (4th Hussars), only son of Colonel A. M. B. Gage, is announced. Major R. P. S. Elderton was present on 7th July at the annual dinner of the Egyptian Army and Sudan Defence Force, held at Claridge's. Mrs. Ravenhill has been at the Lizard since leaving Brockenhurst. Her old friends were very glad to see her at Canterbury during the Cricket Week. We notice with great regret the retirement Col. Langmuir. Capt. StreUell. General Pellatt. of Mr. A. J. Tassell from the Bench of Captain Strettell stayed two nights in Metropolitan Magistrates. He has always been Ottawa, where he saw much of Major George, a great friend of our Regiment and as “ Bell- Mrs. and Miss Chapman, who, we are glad roper ” in the Old Stagers has given pleasure to hear, are very well and happy. to many thousands. We wish him many happy days of well-earned leisure in his retire­ ment and shall look forward to seeing him at Captain A. J. Peareth, still the complete many Cricket Weeks in the future. railway officer, with headquarters at Lillovah, Bengal, does not expect to come home on Our readers will be interested to hear leave until 1933. He hopes, however, to get that our daily ceremony of the “ Turning over a few weeks’ golf at Gultnarg in the near future, of the Leaf ” has been commented on at followed by a little snipe-shooting at Srinagar. length in a number of German newspapers, which suggest that “ this wonderful ceremony ” We congratulate Captain Wilkins on his should be instituted in Germany wherever successful first appearance for the Band of possible. Brothers. Playing for the latter against the Royal Artillery at Woolwich, he scored 98 Captain and Mrs. Eric Stretell returned home a fortnight ago after a very enjoyable for once out and took 2 wickets. trip—New York, Bermuda, Toronto, Van­ couver, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec. Mr. Jelf arrived home on leave from Burma Colonel Langmuir, commanding The Queen’s and was present at the Wrotham Picnic. at Toronto, met them at the station and We are sorry to hear that there has been entertained them right royally. General Pellatt some sickness in “C” Company of the 1st also welcomed them. Both General Pellatt Battalion, which has just returned to Burma and Colonel Langmuir sent their best wishes from the Andaman Islands. Mr. D'Arcy to General Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell and the Symonds brought the Company back, but Regiment. Messrs. Hoare and Murphy were left behind 2&8 Th B E r AGON

with “ dengue ” fever. We are also sorry to The lack of any sort of Church at Ming;aladon learn that Mr. " Bolly ” Oliver is in hospital has been the subject of a question in the House at Mingaladon. of Commons by Commander Carlyon Bellairs. The Secretary of State for India has promised Captain E- H. Allen and 2/Eieut. M. G. F. to' make a full enquiry into the matter. Alexander are ill, but we hope by the time this number reaches Rangoon they will have com­ pletely recovered. We much regret to hear from Rangoon that Mr. Salmon (Bandmaster) is very ill in Eieut. G. E, Sankey has been appointed Hospital, where he is likely to remain for some Brigade Intelligence Officer. time. Most of our readers know what Mr. Salmon has done for the 1st Battalion Ba!nd, Mr. Coates is being transferred to the and will join us in sending him best wishes. 2nd Battalion. We wish him all luck at the next Staff College examination, for which Approval has been given for the presentation we understand he is working. of new Colours to the 1st Battalion, which should be ready for despatch to Rangoon in The Staff College Entrance Examination about two months. has always been a very serious business— “ not to be undertaken lightly.” It is, if Thanks to the efforts of the Association, possible, even more serious to-day. At the Mr. W. Taylor, late C.Q.M.S. of the 2nd last examination there were over 700: can­ Battalion, has been appointed to the War didates. It is clear that- officers are realising Department Constabulary and is to be stationed the increasing value of the P.S.C. Certificate. at Woolwich Arsenal. We hear that Mr. G. W. Eldridge, late The 2nd Battalion Band and Drums did Sergeant, Quartermaster's Office, 1st Battalion, splendidly at the Kent County Constabulary Bareilly, India, and Miss M. Sendell, late Sports at Folkestone on July 8th, and were Queen’s Army Schoolmistress, attached 1st the centre of attraction. It was a pity that Battalion. The Buffs, Bareilly, India, now their sports unfortunately clashed with the Headmistress of an R.C.C. School, were married Dover ’Branch Fete on the first day. in Rondon recently. Mr. Eldridge is in business The Dover Branch Fete was, nevertheless, as a Road Transport Contractor and living a great success from the point of view of the at Potters Bar, Middlesex, in a bungalow man in the street, and we have ever}" hope called “ Bareilly.” that it proved so financially. Great credit is due for the arrangements made in connection with the fete to Major Foster, Dr. Eliot, The parade for the Service of Remembrance Captain Sherwood and the Organising Com­ on August 16th has been fixed for 11.30 a.m., mittee. One of the features of the fete was and the service in the Cathedral will commence the presence of four lads from the Duke of at 12.30 p.m. . York’s School (all sons of old Buffs), who acted The Warrant Officers, N.C.O.’s and Men as escort to the Colonel of the Regiment. of the 2nd Battalion have been invited to be The lads took ten cocoanuts back with them the guests of the Association at luncheon. to the School—rwe hope with no evil after­ The Colonel of the Regiment hopes that effects ! retired officers will, if possible, wear service dress, medals and decorations to be worn by all ranks. The Wrotham Picnic was a great success The Annual General Meeting of the Past and was favoured with delightful weather. and Present Association will be held in the An account of the picnic appears elsewhere Riding School at TO a.m. in this number. Mention may, however, be made of the fine running of Miss “ Buff ” Cudlip. In addition to her athletic qualities, Applications for employment continue to . peculiar attaches to the name of “ Buff,” by pour in from men who have served in the which she is always known. Her father was Regiment, and while everything possible is killed with the 2nd Battalion in 1918: She being done to help, it should be borne in was born whilst he was fighting. When he mind that members of the Past and Present came home on leave for the last time he would Association are invariably given preference. call her. only by the name of “ Buff” and in Owing to the many calls on the funds it is : his letters always referred to her as his “ little feared. that in the near future it may be im­ : Buff” possible to assist other than members. THE DRAGON 259

Births, Marriages and Deaths. Memories of an Old Buff. B i r t h . The Yosemite Valley. P arry.—On July 27th, 1931, at Walton House, (Continued.) Canterbury, to Brenda (nee Murphy), wife of F. W. B. Parry, The Buffs—a daughter. ^F T E R having seen the big trees in the Mariposa Grove, we started once more for the Yosemite Marriages. Valley, for in order to get at it, we had a long climb B rissenden—Culver.—Win. T. Brissenden, ahead of. us to reach the stretch of table land in which it was situated, so we were off before sunrise the late Private 1st Battalion, to Mabel Grace following morning. Culver, adopted daughter of the Rev. and • This was perhaps the worst part of our journey, Mrs. Holyoak, of Dover. Married at Dover for we had a long and tedious day, all uphill, before on July 2nd, 1931. we reached the level, high up in the Liena Nevada Honeybunn—Annand.—6975000 B/Cpl. J. Range, where the valley was situated. We suddenly came to a standstill and found our­ Honeybunn, married to Winifred Alice selves looking down into what, at first sight, appeared Annand on 17/3/31, at Southampton. to be a dark narrow crevice in the ground rather than Wickham—Watkinson.—6279322 Sgt. R. a valley which lay at our feet some one and a half miles below. The only way of getting to it seemed Wickham, married at North Cray on to be a zig-zag track cut in the side of the rock and- 11/7/31 to Dorothy Alice Watkinson. winding its tortuous way to the valley below, and when we reached the bottom it was difficult not to be profoundly impressed by the gigantic proportions Marriage of “ Wally” Tutt. of the wild scenery which came into view. Facing us,, to the left, was a perfectly perpendicular Much interest was taken on Saturday in the marriage wall of rock, rising 3,600 feet up, and to realise at Thanington Church of Mr. Walter Reginald Tutt, what this really means the above measurement must the third son of Mr. and Mrs. W. G. Tutt, of Reserve be put into miles, otherwise it is almost impossible Stores, Sturry Road, Canterbury, to Miss Hilda Ethel to do so. This rock was called the El Capitan, and there Cork, second daughter of Mrs. E. Cork, of 130 Win- was only one break in it. About half-way up was a cheap Street, Canterbury. ledge (probably made by some volcanic movement Mr. Tutt is, of course, the former well-known centuries ago) upon which was growing a yellow pine. Waverley footballer, popularly known as “ Wally,” who This had been measured from the ground with instru­ last season signed for Queen’s Park Rangers. ments and found to be 60 feet high,, and yet, owing to the vastness of the surface of the rock, it was only Canon C. P. Tonks, of Walmer (formerly Rector of by gazing fixedly for some seconds that you could see St. George’s, Canterbury), officiated at the ceremony, the tree at all, and even then it appeared to be a tiny assisted by the Mayor of Canterbury (the Rev. S. spec and nothing more ! In a photograph which I had Gordon Wilson, Rector of Thanington). of it, and which, I am sorry to say, I'have since lost, The bride, who was given away by her brother, Mr. you could only find it with a magnifying glass ! E. Cork, looked charming in a dress of buff and cr£pe On the right, looking in the same direction, the de chine and carried a bouquet of roses tied with ribbon first thing that met the eye was the Wawona Fall, in the colours of Queen’s Park Rangers. She was which consisted of a thin sheet of clear water, about attended by four bridesmaids—Miss Gwen Tutt, Miss 200 feet in width, falling over the edge of the rock “ Bubbles ” Sidwell, and the Misses Marjorie and Joan into the valley 800 f$et below. Wawona, in the Indian Jenner. The bridesmaids were attired in lemon and tongue, means a bridal veil, for, owing to a mysterious apricot frocks and carried bouquets of roses. current of air which catcher it at intervals in its descent, Mr. J, Baker was best man. the water has a waving motion, to and fro, which suggests the effect of folds, and through this thin sheet Mr. and Mrs. Tutt, who were the recipients of of water all kinds of ferns are visible growing in the numerous presents, left for London later in the day. rocks behind ; and one hears a. moaning sound which echoes from rock to rock making a weird noise resembling more than anything, else that of a creature in pain. Territorial Army. The Indians are very superstitious about these falls The latest official returns shew that the total strength and will not pass them except in broad daylight, as of the Territorial Army exclusive of permanent staff, there is a legend that the soul of a squaw who was is now 6,609 officers and 132,404 other ranks. This unfaithful to her husband, a great chief, was condemned is an increase of 1,659 other ranks compared with the by the angry gods to be chained to the rocks for ever, number last month and 3,382 more than a year ago. and it is her tears that are dropping into the valley The number of officers is 118 less than on 1st May, below. 1930. Further down are the Levius, two gigantic rocks, In May,. 4,541 recruits were finally approved for standing apart, exactly alike and of a peculiar shape ; service in the Territorial Army : this is an increase and facing them the Yosemite-Falls, two in number, of 525 compared with the number approved in April the first starting from the top and falling on to a broad last, but 47 less than in May, 1930. The largest number ledge 500 feet below,, and the second dropping over of enlistments during the month was in the Northern the edge of this same ledge in a cloud of mist into the Command, where 1,224 recruits were finally approved, valley, 700 feet below. The valley itself is only nine and the numbers for the other Commands were :— miles long and barely three-quarters of a mile broad, Western Command, 1,122 ; Scottish Command; 799 ; and during the winter months there are scarcely four Eastern Command, 599 ; Southern Command, 428 ; hours between sunrise and sunset, and you can usually and London District, 369. see the stars all day,. • 260 THE DRAGON

Eventually, after following a track along the bottom Miss Lynden-Bell’s. Entertainment of the valley through a pine forest, we arrived at an hotel, a large, rambling wooden structure, and standing in aid of Regimental Funds. ready to welcome us was a sturdy old grey-haired woman, with a ruddy though rather lined face and a kindly We are. greatly indebted for, the following to a dis­ motherly expression (the sort of old body that one tinguished dramatic critic who happened to be present. might meet outside any cottage door on the moors of T’HE entertainment given at the Maidstone Corn Galloway), with her knitting in her hand. The moment Exchange on Friday, July 17th, in aid of Military she spoke there was no mistaking where she came Charities was very well attended, and the large audience from. It appears that she was from Sanquhar, which seemed to thoroughly appreciate each of the nineteen was barely nine miles from my place at home, and items on the programme. it was one of those ciirious coincidences that I should Miss Vera Lynden-Bell and her supporters must have travelled over 7,000 miles by land and sea and have been, highly gratified at the result of their find myself discussing the homeland with an old lady endeavours. who might well have been one of the tenants of my Dancing was the most important feature of the cottages at home. She was the caretaker of the hotel evening, six turns being provided in which Miss Vera in the winter, and was one of the three or four white Lynden-Bell, Miss Bubbles Haworth and Miss Audrey people who remained in the valley after it had been Leslie appeared. “ Three Naughty Maids (1850)” closed to tourists and cut off from the outer world by was perhaps the favourite, although " The Cat and the snow. She had seen us in the distance coming down Mouse ” and " Caper Sauce,” a riotous polka by Miss the mountain road, and in the meantime had lighted Bubbles Haworth and Miss Audrey Leslie, were almost a roaring log fire in the entrance hall, sent an Indian as popular. Other dances were entitled, “ Stepping out to spear trout, milked the goat, put a hot brick in it out,” “ Tyrolean Trio ” and " Ups and Downs,” one of the beds, and had milk scones actually baking the latter coming as a surprise to the audience, for in on the girdle. In fact, all was so homely that I had place of the fairy-like daintiness of all tKe other dances, to rub my eyes to realise where I was, and it seemed an exhibition of muscular strength and athletic agility the lap of luxury to be sitting in a lofty hall discussing was given by Miss Vera Lynden-Bell and Miss Audrey grilled trout and a succulent turkey poult, slain for Leslie, much to the satisfaction of the onlookers. the occasion. ‘Needless to say, when the good lady found out where I came from, I had to submit meekly Major L. H. Branson gave a very clever demon­ to a long cross-examination, for we were talking of a stration of sleight of hand, during which a good number country we both knew well. Of course many changes of the audience were lured by his persuasive manner had taken place since she had married a young miner into acting as his assistants. As one of the bright from those parts and they had come out to California lights of the Inner Magic Circle he seemed endued with in the gold rush, with dreams of getting rich, some an uncanny gift of divining the secrets of nature. His fifty years before. Sitting on either side of the fire, help should be much sought before the next drawing we talked on far into the night, but it was only with of the Irish Sweepstake. great difficulty that I could get her to talk of the valley, Miss Nicola Blake sang some delightful Russian, as it was home news that fascinated her. Eventually, Spanish and Italian songs with guitar accompaniment, however, I got to bed, a feather one, and linen sheets, of which instrument she is an accomplished player. by all that was glorious, and the room smelt of mountain Miss F. Graeme-Gibson, the youngest performer, herbs. The stillness of the valley at night was a stillness gave two recitations, which were very daintily delivered, that could be felt, and I slept the sleep of the gods. and, dressed in a costume suitable to her age, she made Two happy days I spent exploring its wonders. a very pretty picture on the stage. Every fresh point of view impressed me with the Miss Croneen and Mr. Applewhaite gave a sketch grandeur of nature, unspoiled by man, just as it came entitled “ Dining Out,” a subject which appealed from the hands of the Creator. Then my day-dreams to a good many who occasionally have to dine out came suddenly to an end, for my trapper came to say when they do not want to. To discover, just as you that there was snow coming up,on the wind, and that are ready to start, that the dinner took place the evening if we did not get out of the valley at once, there was before is, unfortunately, not the experience of all of us. every chance of our being sjiowe

B attle H onours. Germany and Flanders (1742/47) Digonier’s never lost a trooper by desertion or had one tried by general 4Th D ragoon Guards.—Borne on the Standard court martial. Thirty-seven N.C.O.’s and men won Peninsula, ” “ B alaclava," ‘' Sevastopol, ” " Tel- commissions for special gallantry.” On one occasion el-Kebir,” " Egypt, 1882,” “ Mons,” “ De Cateau,” when the regiment was reviewed by King George II., “ Retreat from Mons,” " Marne, 1914,” " Aisne, His Majesty expressed the opinion that the men in 1914,” “ Messines, 1914,” " Ypres, 1914, ’15,” the ranks were of good quality, but the horses were “ Somme, 1916, ’18,” “ Cambrai, 1917, ’18,” not so good, and turned to Digonier, asking why this " Pursuit to Mons." was. “ Sire,” replied Digonier, “ the men are Irish— 7th Dragoon Guards.—Borne on the Standard :— but the horses are English! ” What the monarch " Blenheim,” “ Ramillies,” " Oudenarde,” “ Mal- said afterwards is not recorded. In 1898 The 7th plaquet,” " Dettingen,” “ Warburg,” “ South Africa, Dragoon Guards asked, and obtained, permission 1846/7,” " Tel-el-Kebir,” “ Egypt, 1882,” " South to wear Digonier’s crest as a badge—-a demi-lion rampant Africa, 1900/02,” “ Da Bassee, 1914,” “ Givenchy, arising from a coronet, with the motto " Quo Fata 1914,” “ Somme, 1916, ’18,” " Bazentin,” “ Cambrai, Vocant ” (" Wherever the Fates Call” ) on a scroll below. 1917, ’18,” " St. Quentin,” “ Avre,” “ Ameins,” “ Hindenburg Dine,” " Pursuit to Mons.” In 1788 the regimental nomenclature was changed * * $ from " The 4th Irish Horse ” to " The 7th Princess Royal’s Dragoon Guards.” After many years of peace­ The 4/7th Dragoon Guards, at present occupying ful service, mostly at home. The 7th Dragoon Guards the Cavalry Barracks at SliornclifTe, represent two took part in the wars against the Kaffirs in South famous regiments which were amalgamated in 1922. Africa, 1846/7. The regiment was also employed The senior of the two. The 4th Royal Irish Dragoon in Bengal during the Indian Mutiny. Guards, is descended from a regiment of Cuirassiers The 4th Dragoon Guards took part in the Crimean raised in 1685. The original members of the regiment War and earned great distinction at Balaclava, as provided their own horses, and a trooper’s pay was part of the “ Heavy Brigade,” under General Scarlett. at the rate of 2/6 a day—a large sum for those days. This brigade, mustering only 300 sabres, rode through a The regiment saw active service in Flanders in the dense mass of Russian cavalry and put them to flight. last decade of the seventeenth century. Then followed Both regiments served in the Egyptian War of 1882, a long period of peaceful service, mostly in Ireland, including the Battle of Tel-el-Kebir and the " moonlight where many of the men took farms, and the regiment charge ” of Kassassin. in consequence got the nicknames of “ The Butter­ The 7th Dragoon :Guards served in the Boer War, milks ” and “ The Old Farmers.” The title of " The two squadrons particularly distinguishing themselves First Irish Horse ” was given in 1746, being changed when attacked by jGrobler’s commando, on which to “ The 4th (Royal Irish) Dragoon Guards ” in 1788. occasion (to quote'^Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s history In 1805 a regimental fund, known as “ St. Patrick’s “ The Great Boer War ”) “ The old Black Horse sus­ Fund,” was established for the purpose of giving tained their historical reputation and fought their way gratuities to deserving members of the regiment on bravely out of an almost desperate situation when they taking their discharge. This may be regarded as the forerunner of all the Old Comrades’ Associations and were exposed to the fire of a thousand riflemen and four Regimental Aid Funds in the British Army. guns.” The 4th Royal Irish Dragoon Guards crossed to The 7th Princess Royal’s Dragoon Guards originated France at the beginning of the war with Germany as a regiment of Cuirassiers raised at Derby by the as part of the 2nd Cavalry Brigade. Near Soignies Earl of Devonshire in 1688. Two years later he was on 22nd August, 1914, a squadron of the regiment succeeded in the Colonelcy by Count Schomberg, who under Captain Hornby met and defeated a body of led the regiment in its first campaign in Ireland. At German cavalry (4th Regiment of Cuirassiers), thus the Battle of Boyne it is recorded that “ much of the having the distinction of being the first troops of the glory of the victory was due to Schomberg’s Horse.” British Expeditionary Force to be in action on the Dater the regiment saw a great deal of active service Western Front, also of being the first to take prisoners on the continent, in the wars of William III., the from the enemy. The regiment served on the Western Duke of Marlborough, George II., and the Duke of Front throughout the Great War, and " some idea Cumberland. of the part played by The 4th R.I.D.G. in the opening From 1720 to 1749 the Colonelcy of the regiment months of the war may be gathered from the. fact that was held by Sir John Digonier. He was an officer of between the date of landing in France, and the 1st of outstanding character and ability, and he made the January, 1915 there had been on the regimental books name of “ Digonier's Horse ” a synonym for smartness the names of sufficient officers and men to form three on parade, good conduct in quarters, and bravery complete regiments.” A t. Messines in 1914, Sgt. in the field. “ Daring five years' active service in Woodland of The 4th Dragoon Guards was in charge 262 THE DRAGON of a machine gun section and though isolated for twenty- four hours, he kept the gun in action the whole time, Vishnu in Erse. helping to break up German attacks on a French trench jVTARCHING up country, in 1893, the 1st Battalion in the vicinity. He was recommended for the V.C., arrived at the small town of Khirja, in the North- but received the D.C.M. West Provinces. As soon as the camp was pitched, it The 7th Dragoon Guards had the experience— was visited by a deputation of the city fathers, who asked almost unique in the latter years of the war on. the the C.O. if the Band could be engaged to play at a very Western Front—of charging the enemy with, sword important. function which was to take place in their and lance near Delville Wood, during the Battle of little town that very afternoon. the Somme, July, 1916. On this occasion they took Now the Band, during their recent sojourn in thirty-two prisoners. During the Battle of Cambrai Calcutta,: liad acquired a considerable experience of in 1917 The 7th Dragoon Guards took the village of playing at .native functions such as weddings and even Noyelles. " After skirting round it under rifle arid religious festivals, and on this occasion permission was machine gun fire, they put their horses to a gallop soon granted—at a> figure, of course !—and in the and rode straight through the main street at three afternoon the Band went to play in and about the o’clock in .the afternoon. Iii the village they took small town mentioned, at the head of quite a large twenty-five prisoners. Later they came across six and important procession. ammunition waggons in La Folie Wood, and destroyed them all.” There had recently been erected in the town a new The badge worn by The 4/7th Dragoon Guards temple, and the vital matter of the moment was to be at the present time is the Star of the Order of St. the installation of the image of Vishnu in the brand Patrick (the old badge of The 4th) with the Coronet new edifice. The " god ” was carried in procession of H.R.H. The Princess Royal (representing The 7tli) in a gorgeous palanquin upholstered in crimson silk, superimposed in the centre. cushioned with gold tassels, and decorated with much From the colour of their facings, The 4th were gilt and tinsel; altogether a very imposing spectacle. formerly nicknamed ” The Blue Horse,” and The 7th The Band played all kinds of marches, for it mattered “ The Black Horse.” The 4th were also sometimes little the class of music performed, and so long as there referred to as ‘‘The Mounted Micks,” in allusion to was plenty of drum and cymbals, the music would their Hibernian nationality. When sent to assist the always be entirely satisfactory. army of the Archduchess Maria Theresa of Austria Towards evening the procession came to an end out­ in the days of George II., The 7th were called " The side the new temple, the " g o d ” being carried inside Virgin Mary’s Body Guards.” Their other old nick­ to be installed in the alcove built for the purpose. The name is “ The Strawboots.” There are two versions native gentlemen particularly wished that the music of its origin. One, that when employed in . keeping should strike up as they placed the image on its throne. order in the South of England during agricultural The Band, of course, remained outside; the right riots, they used to wrap wisps of straw round their moment was to be conveyed by signal. The Band- legs to protect their overalls from the wet and mud. Sergeant had just ordered the Band to be ready for the The other, that at one time the regiment had a batch signal and to play the next number in the book to that of recruits so stupid that they did not know their right just finished. The moment came, the signal was foot from their left, so they had to wear a wisp of hay given, and the Band played—the tune happened to be round one boot and a wisp of .straw round the other, " Are you there Moriarity ? ” and the Sergeants, instead of shouting “ Left, right,” The tale rightly ends at this point, yet a further had to shout “ Hay boot, strawboot.” note may be of interest in connection with this amusing 1 R. Maurice H ill. incident; in fact so many laughed at the combination of the Vishnu and Moriarity that the music nearly came to a finish; However, the drummers could hit and laugh as well, so the situation was saved. The side- Our Contemporaries. drummer, No. 534 W. A. Greaves, with that shrewdness VIJE acknowledge with thanks the receipt of the for which he was noted, wrote up the anecdote for the following journals :— short story competition in Tit-Bits in which a weekly “ Aldershot Command News.” “ The Men of prize of a guinea was awarded for the best short story! Harlech.” " Journal of the Nigeria Regiment.” “ Our When the story -was published in that journal under Empire.” “ Royal Fusiliers Chronicle.” “ St. George’s the title of “ The Sanctification of Moriarity,” Tit-Bits Gazette.” “ Anglo-Danish Journal.” " The Snapper.” announced that the " Guinea goes to India, (Jappy) “ The Green Howards’ Gazette.” “ The Bugle.” Greaves had secured the ‘ boodle.’ ” “ The Antelope.” “ The Oak Tree.” “ The Coven­ P. & P.A. 1659 anter.” "The Ypres Times.” "The London Scottish Regimental Gazette.” " The Indian Army Ordnance Corps, Gazette.” " Journal-of the Hon. Artillery Co." " The Sapper.” " British Legion Journal.” " Journal, of The Royal Army Chaplains’ Department.” " The Records of an Old Buff. Hampshire Regimental Journal.” " Journal of the P articulars of Pte . J ohn Lloyd, The. Bu f f s.— Royal Army Service Corps.” “ The Queen’s Own Enlisted October 27th, 1875, at the age of 18 years Gazette.” " The Regimental Chronicle of The Prince 9 months. Served 7 years and 119 days with the of Wales' Volunteers.” " Cabar Feidh.” " Suffolk Colours, of which 5 years 233 days were served abroad. Regimental Gazette.” “ Essex Regimental Gazette.” Was with the 2nd Battalion when shipwrecked in the " The Chronicle of the Dnke of York’s Royal Military St. Lawrence (Colonel Pearson). In possession of School.” . the South African Medal with Clasp, 1879, two Good Conduct Badges and a Fourth Class Certificate of How to get “ The Dragon.” Education. Character very good. Purchased his dis­ Ji OR those wishing to receive the Paper direct through the charge from the Reserve at Canterbury on March 2nd, post each month, the rates-of subscription are:— 1885, after 2 years and 8 days, by paying £9. Employed 1 year, 8f-, 6 months, 4/-, 3 months, 2/-. as butler to Sir Robert Woods, Marino, Ballybeack, Remittances should be sent to the Editor, Depot The Bur?: Co. Dublin. Canterbury. R.M.W. THE DRAGON 263 Correspondence. Shoelands House, 4 Esplanade East, Seale, Calcutta. Surrey, July 1st, 1931. J u ly SOth, 1931. Dear Colonel Findlay, Dear Colonel Findlay, Esprit de Corps, like other things, can take many Alas, Alas, I fear after all I shall not have the great shapes, and I think this sample is worth placing on pleasure of seeing you all in the Buffs’ Tent next week, record. for my doctor has forbidden me to come to Canterbury Poor Paddy------, who died here recently, told me for Cricket Week. He says I simply must not walk or many years ago lie 1‘ had a brother who was a puckka talk much, and of course it would be impossible for me scoundrel. First of all. he joined the Artillery ; he to come under those conditions 1 It is a terrible dis­ deserted from them and joined The Grenadier Guards, appointment, and it was very good of you to have invited and was caught and did six months for that. He me to your Tent, deserted and enlisted in The Dragoon Guards and did Yours very sincerely, another six months. After that, he joined the Army.” R. S h e p p a r d . The Army, to Paddy, being just—The Buffs. Yours sincerely, - 26 Doyle Road, H . H o b b s . S.W.17.: July 26th, 1931. The Editor, " The Dragon.” 2 Gran worth Gardens, Sir, S.W.9. You will be pleasedto know that " Nobby ” Clafke July 6th, 1931. has obtained employment and he wishes me to say how Sir, grateful he is to the member (Mr. Cole) who notified I have a very fine old coloured aquatint of The Buffs, the vacancy to me. He particuarly desires me to at the Battle of Albuhera, shewing an officer rolling point out that if he had not been a member of the the Colours around himself. Engraved by H. de Association, he would never , have known of the job, Daubrawe, published in 1818. It is well-framed and and so his thanks are also conveyed to the Past and in perfect condition. Price 45/-. Present. He was only out of work five days when he I shall be pleased to send on approval for your found his present employment. I enclose his photo­ inspection. graph, taken a few days ago. Yours obediently, Yours faithfully, E. M u n r o . J. 13. E n r ig h t . Depot The Buffs, Section House, Canterbury. W.D. Constabulary, The Editor, “ The Dragon." Harrow Manorway, Dear Sir, Abbey Wood, Can any reader of The Dragon inform me of the origin S.E-2. of the Regimental Motto ? It appears to form the Sir, second half of a Latin hexameter, but I am unable to Please find enclosed P.O. for 8/- for The Dragon trace the poem from which it was taken. Its history to be sent to the above address. seems to be as obscure as that of the Regimental March. I am very pleased to inform you that I have been Yours faithfully, successful in obtaining an appointment as a W.D. P. L y n d EN-Be l l . Constable in the . Royal Arsenal, Woolwich, for which I have the Past and Present Association to thank for helping me to obtain this-situation. • 65 Leonard Street, I should like to point out to others serving the Derby. immense advantage of being a member of the Associa­ July 5th, 1931. tion, otherwise I don’t think I would have been Dear Sir, successful in obtaining this job. It is very important I am enclosing this press cutting, and regret to inform that all Buffs should realise how the Association looks you of the passing of an old Buff. .after their interests. He was a guest at the Depot during the Cricket I will now close, wishing the “ DUCK ” every Week of last year, and an article in an issue of The success. Dragon following, concerning his visit, was recorded. Yours faithfully, My copies of The Dragon were passed on to him, in which I know he took a great interest. W. T ayjt,o r . (Ex-C.Q.M.S. "A ” Coy. 2nd Bn. The Buffs.) Trusting that any friends he had at the Depot may July 6th, 1931. be informed of his passing away, I am. Kilburn Section House, Yours faithfully, 38 Salisbury Road, C. P. H e a t h . Kilburn, N.W.6. P.S.—Ex-Sgt. Stone seems to have broken down Dear Sir, since the death of his wife a few months ago. I beg to inform you of my permanent change of C.P.II. address from Peel House, Westminster to the one Derby Ex-P.S.’s Death. above. The death has taken place at the Derbyshire Royal I’m pleased to be able to tell you I am in uniform. Infirmary of ex-Police-Sergeant Alfred Stone, 15 Olivier You may be sure a Buff will not let the Force down. Street, Derby. With my respects, Mr. Stone joined the Derby Borough Constabulary Yours sincerely, on March 10th, 1886, and was promoted Sergeant H. W. Wai/Ton. on July 8th, 1902. (Ex-6282346.) He retired on pension on April 4th, 1912. 264 THE DRAGON

Wrotham, 1931.

Some of the Ladies at the Picnic. g UNDAY, j une 28th was another red letter day of trouble she and her willing helpers must have’ gone in the history of the Past and Present Association, to. It is no easy task to cater unless one knows when over 400 members, their wives and families definitely how many are to be catered for, and we visited the home of the Colonel of the Regiment for congratulate her on the success achieved. their annual picnic. It was extremely gratifying to find the Sittingbourne A glorious sun shone down its rays heavenlike on Branch to the fore again in goodly numbers, also the the righteous who were to be found in a meadow kindly Sandwich Branch, and we sincerely trust to see them lent by Mr. P. Minter, O.B.Ii., enjoying the frolics again next, year even twice as strong. We were pleased of youth or basking, like old Kaspar, in the sun. to see Captain Arthur Barton, representing the Medway The London Branch R.T.O., Mr. George Peacock, Branch, and it is anticipated that had he to walk the had made admirable arrangements for ensuring the distance from the Medway, he would have been comfort of 100 or more who made the journey from punctually on parade. Victoria ; he had even ordered the train to stop at wayside stations to pick up others en route. A trolly It was not long before all present had their nose­ bags on, whilst others of a more thirsty description was commandeered at Victoria which, together with an improvised shelter, made an excellent booking were in the A.T.A. drinking milk, lemonade and cups office, where sat Mr. Ainge issuing tickets, whilst of tea, all qualifying for six months Sta r. After all Peacock plastered the station with instruction notices had been satisfied, Sittingbourne started rounders, as to platform, etc. All aboard in reserved compart­ in which everyone more or less joined in. Then some ments, we were delayed through Hughie Borland bright sparks—I think Messrs. Peacock and Lamb— being unable to get through the barrier until it was got up a Ladies versus Gents cricket match, which widened. Passing through Uynsford brought back necessitated Mr. Waters approaching Mr. Minter for pleasant memories of our great friend Major II. If. some cricket gear. This gentleman immediately got J ames, as we visualised him last year standing on the hold of the Captain of the Village Club, Mr. Baker, platform to give us a welcome. who kindly did the necessary. Then the fun really started ; teams were sixteen on each side and the Arriving at Wrotham ure were met and welcomed men wrere to bat left-handed. As a matter of fact, by our Colonel, General Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell, who when the ladies were batting there were no less than had kindly arranged for charabancs to convey the twenty-five men fielding; they sat on the stumps, Branch to Platt ; although ive say “ Wrotham,” it stood all along the pitch, whilst about six hung on is not strictly correct, as we picnic at the delightful to the blade of the bat. But when the men went in village of Platt, which is surrounded by hills and to bat I could only count ten ladies fielding. Miss makes one wonder why the War Office have not already Allen of Sittingbourne fully deserved the lovely box obtained possession and marked it down as another of chocolates presented to her by the Colonel of the area ''!£ ” so well-known to those who have idled their Regiment on behalf of his daughter for scoring no less time away at such health resorts as Aldershot, etc. than 14 runs under adverse circumstances, and thus As we alighted from the charabancs my attention enabling the ladies to win by 8 runs. was drawn to the Village Hall, where I discovered admirable catering arrangements had been made We now had an interval for tea, where the Village for the inner man. Our grateful thanks are due to Hall was w'ell patronised. After tea back to the field Mrs. Lane of the Dairy, Platt, for the vast amount for the sports, the results being as follows :— THE DRAGON 265

The Buffs Golfing Society. o \ Sunday. July 12th the Society had the good fortune to be the guests of the Tudor Club, which, founded by Captain Dampier Palmer down Tenterden way, continues to flourish exceedingly. The match was played at Littlestone under handicap and, at the end of a most enjoyable and hospitable day, the Society came out the winners by 9 matches to 4.

The Duffs. The 'Tudor Club G.S. Singles. C. T. Kenward (halved) 0 Comdr. W. F. Morley (halved) 0 H. P. Whitfield 0 C. Kenward (6/4) ...... 1 Capt. C. K. A. Terry (4/2) 1 C. Ingram 0 Capt.B.E.Hammond-Davies (4/2) 1 Lt.-Col. W. G. N eale...... 0 J. E. King ...... 0 C. Grabliam (3/2) 1 Col. \V. 11. Trevor (6/5) 1 Brig.-Gen. L. L. Wheatley ... 0 Major II. de R. Morgan 0 D. Murton-Ncalc (4/2) 1 Col. John Body 0 C. R. A. Oakeley (3/1) 1 Capt. Dampier Palmer (6/5) .. 1 Major F. Lusliington ... 0 Major G. D. Hickman (1 up) 1 Major R. L. S u rte e s...... 0 Total 5 Total 4

F oursomes. Kemvard and Whitfield (6/5).. 1 Morley and Kenward 0 Terry and Hammond-Davies 0 Ingram and Neale (5/4) 1 King and Trevor (1 up) 1 Grabliam and Wheatley () Morgan and Body (1 up) 1 Murton-Ncalc and Oakeley ... 0 Palmer and Hickman (3/2) .. 1 Lusliington and Surtees 0 Total 9 Total 5

v. Tun Royal West Kent Regiment. On Sunday, J uly 26th The Society met the Golfing Colonel of the Regiment and Sergt.-Major Vaughan. Society of the Royal West Kent Regiment at Deal under weather conditions almost too horrible to Children's R ack.—Girls : 1st, Peggy Osborne ; describe. The morning was fair enough, but in the 2nd Doris McWalters ; 3rd, Mary Willins. Boys : afternoon torrential rain and a gale made the home­ 1st, Freddie Larkin; 2nd, Bobby Baker; 3rd, A. ward journey just about as difficult and unpleasant as L arkin. anyone could wish for. To hold one's clubs became a hopeless proposition. LadiiCS’ Rack (Prizes given by the Hon. Lady Lynden-Bell and Mr. P. Lynden-Bell).— 1st, Miss (Buff) However, the day was good fun for all that and the K. Cudlip ; 2nd, Miss Harman. Society was again successful by 7 matches to 5 and so All Ranks (1st prize given by the Colonel of the have yet to lose a match; against their friends from Regiment).—1st, Captain Andrews ; 2nd, Mr. P. across the Medway ! Lynden-Bell ; 3rd, Mr. F. Dixon. Our opponents vterc one short so Colonel Buchanan Children's R ack (U nder 8 years) (one prize given Dunlop took on both Reeves and Terry. And, in the by Miss Enright).—1st, Fluffy McWalters. foursomes. Air Commodore McNeece Foster played Young La dies’ Rack.— 1st, Miss (Buff) E. Cudlip ; Morgan and Baird, the latter taking the place of Green­ 2nd, Miss Cathlecn Carter ; 3rd, Miss Harman. wood who played in the morning singles. The full results were :— The prizes were distributed by the Hon. Lady Lynden-Bell. T h e D u ffs . The Royal West Kent Regiment. In returning thanks to the Colonel of the Regiment and her ladyship, Captain Enright spoke of the very Singles. ht. N. R. Reeves (3/2) ... 1 Col. II. D. Buchanan-Dunlop 0 happy day all had experienced and asked the Colonel I,t. C. T. Kenward (3/1) ... 1 H. E. Scott ...... 0 to convey the thanks of all present to Mr. Minter for so Capt. C. A. K. T e rr y ...... 0 Col.H.D.Buchanan-Duulop (6/5) 1 kindly loaning the field. U. J. K. King (3/2) 1 Capt. P. C. Lovett ...... 0 Capt. B. Ilammond-Davies ... 0 Col. II. S. Bush (4/3)...... 1 All now made tracks for the charabanc or railway Capt. H. S. Greenwood (3/2) 1 Brig.-Gen. I’. M. Robinson ... 0 station. The Colonel of the Regiment was on the Lt.-Col. J. Crookeudeu ... 0 Capt. R. S. Kerr (3/1) ... 1 platform and given rousing cheers as the train moved Major H. de R. Morgan (1 up) 1 Air Commodore W. K. McNeece Poster ... 0 off. The end of another perfect day was reached on arrival at Victoria about 9.15 p.m. Total ... 5 Total ... 3 J.F. F oursomes. Reeves and Kenward...... 0 Dunlop and Lovett (3/1) ... 0 Terry and Ilammond-Davies 0 Bush and Robinson (4/3) ... 1 NOTICE. Crookeudeu and King (3/1) ... 1 Scott and Kerr ...... 1 Baird and Morgan (3/1 j ... 1 McNeece Poster ...... 0 Would correspondents kindly help us by writing on one side of the paper only ? Total ... 7 Total ... 5 Past & Present Association, The Buffs.

Statement of Receipts and Expenditure,

and Balance Sheets,

For the year ended 31^3^31.

PAST AND PRESENT ASSOCIATION.

BENEVOLENT FUND.

EAST KENT SOLDIERS’ FUND.

BUFFS COTTAGE HOMES.

BUFFS WARRIORS’ CHAPEL FUND.

“ THE DRAGON.” THE' DRAGON 267

PAST AND PRESENT ASSOCIATION.

RECEIPTS. E xpenditure. > £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. • £ s. d. Balance, 1/4/30 ...... ‘ 50 4 11 Salaries :— Do. Petty Gash ... 6 6 8 Secretary 300 0 0 Subscriptions :— Clerks...... 113 19 0 1st Battalion " The Buffs ” 243 8 6 — 413 19 0 2nd Battalion ,, ,, ... 112 5 0 National Health Insurance 6 6 Depot ' 22 12 6 Annual Grant Regimental Agency 15 0 0 Ashford Branch 25 8 0 National Association Employ- Canterbury B ranch...... 16 12 6 ment of Soldiers, Sailors and Dover Branch 16 5 0 Airm.cn ...... 16 0 0 Folkestone B ra n c h ...... 19 9 6 War Memorial, Mauritius Hythe Branch ...... 3 12 0 (Renovation Fund) ... 11 0 0 London Branch 42 12 0 Peninsular Memorial, Biarritz 1 0 0 Margate Branch ...... 23 17 0 Postmaster General:— Medway Branch ...... 10 11 0 Telephones 24 10 7 Ramsgate Branch ...... 13 0 0 Telegraphic Address 2 0 O' Sittingboume Branch 5 15 0 , 26 10 7 Sandwich Branch ...... 8 12 6 : Memorial Sundav :— Weald Branch ... 23 10 0 Carton Lunches • ... - ..." •30 ,6- o. Miscellaneous ... 59 17 6 Hire of Crockery ...■ • ..: 6 •5 10 647 8 0: Potatoes ...... " 18 4 Donations (includes £50 from ■ Beer ... 7 7 3 Lady Houston, D.B.E.) 57 14 6 Catering ... 14 10 9 Ties and Badges 15 0 IP Minerals 7 6 ' Luncheon Tickets—Memorial Cartage ■ ...... 7 6 Sunday ... ..: :.. 48 12 0 N.C.O. “ The Buffs ”—Services Short Histories ...... 2 4 8 Rendered ..." ... 2 0 0 History of “ The Buffs ” 8 6; 61 17 2 Jumble Sale 4 13 0! Badges and Ties 82 0 6 Donations, Queen's Own Rifles Printing and Stationery 76 2 6 (Canada) Memorial ... 22. 9 4 Coal ...... 5 9 7 The Dragon 140 0 0 Audit Fees 9 15 6 Benevolent Fund 150 0 Oi Short Histories...... 1 8 0 East Kent Soldiers' Fund 17 0 O' Travelling Expenses, Secretary 21 13 6 Dividends on Investments 36 7 4\ Purchase of 41-% Conversion Bank Interest ... :.. 15 10 Loan, 1940/44 100 0 0 • Purchase of National Savings Certificates 63 4 0 ! Queen’s Own Rifles (Canada) Memorial 26 5 0 Travelling Expenses, Band 8 10 0 Historical Records, War Office 2 12 6 Plistory “ The Buffs ” ...... 8 6 Cheques ...... 1 10 0 Miscellaneous items 2 5 9 Postage and Miscellaneous Expenditure London Branch ...... 18 18 10 Ramsgate Branch 9 0 0 Medway Branch 6 16 0 Dover Branch 16 15 0 Weald Branch 6 6 9 Hythe Branch 4 8- 3 Ashford Branch ...... 7 11 5 Sittingboume Branch 10 7 8 Folkestone Branch ... 4 0 0 Margate Branch 5 17 6 90 1 5 Petty Cash .— , Postage and Sundries 49 3 10 Balance ...... 2 2 10 51 6 8 Balance, 31st March, 1931 110 19 0 ,£U99 5 8 ^1,199 5 8 268 THE' ERAG0H

PAST AND PRESENT ASSOCIATION. Balance S heet. Diabieities. : , A ssets. £ s- £ s. Unpresented Cheques 30 2 £500 National Savings Certificates, Balance Credit 1,683 6 '•> 3rd 'Issue ■ ... 424 19 3 £100 3|% Conversion Doan ... •. • 79 0 0 .£395 l’2s. 7d. 4i% ’ Conversion ; Doan, 1940/44 ...... 401 11 3 £600 5% War Doan, 1929/47 . .. ' 625 10 0 Stock—Ties, etc., on hand ..... 39 3 9 Cash in hand ... 2 210 Cash at Dloyds Bank ...... 1411 1 — 143 3 11 £l,7i3 82 i . . £1,713 8 2 Balance struck, 31st March, 1931. THE BENEVODENT FUND. Receipts. E xpenditure. ■ - . £ s. d £ s, d. On hand, 1/4/30 ...... Grants and Doans 352 12 8 Do. Petty Cash ...... 3 4 6' Ashford Branch,!Docal Relief.!. 10 0 0 Donations ...... 180 12 0> Dondon Branch (per ‘Dadies’ Doans and. Grants refunded ...... 17 18 0! Guild), Docal Relief ...... 10 0 0 Donations, Plum Pudding Fund ... 21 12 2 Dover Branch, Docal Relief ... 15 0 0 Proceeds Concert per Miss Dynden-Bell Canterbury Branch, Docal Relief 5 0 0 (including donation from Sir E- Davis).. 114 3 11 — 40 0 0 Interest on Investments 550, 0 i; . Pensions ... 260 2 6 Interest allowed by Bank ... 2 19 11 Cash Book 12 0 Christmas Puddings ...... 12 11 4 . Past and Present Association (part Administration Expenses) 150 0 0 Donation, Gordon Boys' Home 5 0 0 Donation, Royal Homes for Officers' Widows and Daughters 5 0 0 Donation, Imperial Ex-Service Men of Australia ...... 2 0 0 Cheques...... 3 0 0 Petty Cash .— Small grants and loans ... 33 16 11 In hand ...... 4 7 7 — 38 4 6 Balance, 31st March, 1931 112 18 3 £982 1 3 £982 1 3

THE BENEVODENT FUND. Balance Sheet.

Diabieities. Assets. £ s. d. Unpresented Cheques 12 0 0 £742 12s. Dondon County 4£% Consoli­ Balance Credit .. 4,682 8 10 dated Stock, 1945/85 742 12 0 £735 11s. lid. Conversion Doan, 3J% (includes £96 1 Is. 1 Id. “ Furley Fund ”) 581 2 5 £1,950 War 5% Stock, 1929/47 ...... 2,032 17 6 £105 10s. Conversion 4J% Stock, 1940/44 107 1 7 £617 3s. 6d. Consolidated 4% Stock 555 9 7 £138 Dondon Midland and Scottish Railway 4% Preference Stock ...... 69 13 9 £468 Dominion of Canada, City of Quebec 3£% Consolidated Stock 372 1 2 £100 5% War Doan, 1929/47 104 5 0 £ s. d. Cash in hand ...... 4 7 7 Cash at Dloyds Bank 124 18 3 129 5 10 £4,694 8 10 £4,694 8 10 Balance struck, 31st March, 1931. THE DRAGON 269

EAST KENT SOLDIERS' FUND. Receipts. Expenditure. £ s- d. £ s. d. On hand, 1 /4/30 ...... 2 0 Past and Present Association ...... 17 0 0 Conversion Loan I n te re s t...... 17 16 2 Balance, 31/3/31 ...... 18 2 £\1 18 2 £17 18 2

EAST KENT SOLDIERS’ FUND. Balance Sheet. Liabilities. Assets. £ s- d. £ s. d. Balance Credit ... 511 7 5 £646 3s. 2d. 3A% Conversion Loan 510 9 3 Cash at Lloyds Bank ...... 18 2 £511 7 5 £511 7 5 Balance struck, 31st March, 1931.

THE BUFFS COTTAGE HOMES. Receipts. ■ Expenditure. £ s- d. £ .s. d. On hand, 1/4/30 ...... 106 14 0 Tithe Rent Charge (Queen Anne's Bounty) 7 4 Donations ...... 65 1 6 Fire Insurance 2 9 0 Dividends on Investments ...... 72 11 10^ St. Peter's and Broadstairs U.D.C. Rates 19 11 . 1 Income Tax Refunded to 31/12/30.. ... 12 5 0 , Repairs ...... 6 0 0 Pensions ...... 16 5 0 Printing 10 6 Charity Commission Stamps, Fee, etc. 1 1 8 Cheques ...... 10 0 Balance, 31/3/31 209 17 9 £256 12 4 £256 12 4

THE BUFFS COTTAGE HOMES. B a l a n c e S h e e t . L ia b il it ie s . A s s e t s . £ s. d. £ s. d. Unpresented Cheques ...... 6 0 0 £105 17s. lid. Conversion 4J% Stock, Balance Credit ...... 1,791 7 2 1940/44 ...... 107 9 9 £351 Consolidated 4% Stock ...... 315 18 0 £106 5s. Treasury 4£% Bonds, 1932/34 ... 107 11 6 £700 War 5% Stock, 1929/47 ...... 729 15 0 £648 0s. 8d. India 3% Stock ...... 320 15 2 Cash at Lloyds Bank ...... 215 17 if £1,797 7 2 £1,797 7 2 Balance struck, 31st March, 1931

THE BUFFS WARRIORS' CHAPEL FUND. R e c e ip t s . E x p e n d it u r e . £ s. d. Donation £1 1 6 Balance, 31/3/31 ...... £1 1 0

THE BUFFS WARRIORS' CHAPEL FUND. B a l a n c e S h e e t L ia b il it ie s . A s s e t s , £ s. d. t s. a. Balance ...... £1 1 0 Cash at Lloyds Bank 1 0 Balance struck, 31st March, 1931. 27a t h e ' d r a g o n '

“ THE DRAGON.” R e c e ip t s . ' E x p e n d it u r e . 1 £' S.' d.: Balance in hand 137 1 2 Transfer to Past and Present Association HU U U Subscribers ...... 226 5 8 Salaries ...... 113 4 0 1st Battalion...... 188 10 0 Printing ...... 580 6 10 2nd Battalion... 65 3 0 Stationery- 11 15 11 Depot ... 32 7 0 Postage ...... 43 0 0 Agents and Cash Sales 84 10 5 Blocks 65 11 7 Advertisers 363 15 10 •Cheques • .... 10 0 Bound Volumes 10 19 9 •Photographs ... 2 4 0 Bound Volumes ...... 4 1 3 960 13 7 Balance ... 147 19 3 j£l,108 12 10 ^1,108 12 10

“ TI-IE DRAGON.” Balance Sheet. L ia b il it ie s . ASSETS. / s. d. i s. d. Subscriptions 92 9 8 ; Agents ,. 12 2 8 . , Advertisements " 18 0 Advertisements 29 11 3 • 93 7 8 . Bound Volumes •2 11 9 : Balance. Credit 165 13/9. 12nd Battalion... 18‘16 6 ■ 1st Battalion .:. 48 0 0 ------Ill 2 2 ,. ;Cash at Lloyds Bank 147 19 3 £259 1 ,5 ^259 1 5

I have examined the foregoing Accounts and Balance Sheets for the year ended 31st March, 1931 and I certify that they are true and correct. A. J. Lancaster, 5th May, 1931 Auditor.

ANNUAL REPORT. . PAST AND PRESENT ASSOCIATION, THE BUFFS.

1s t A p ril, 193 0 t o 3 1 s t M arch, 1931.

1. EXECUTIVE COMM ITTEE. Major-General Sir A. Lynden-Bell, Colonel of the Regiment, has nominated the following as Chairman and members of the Committee for the ensuing year - Chairman .: Brigadier-General R. McDouall. ; : Members: Major-General J. Kennedy, Colonel W. H. Trevor, Lieut.-Colonel R-. B. Power, Lieut.-Colonel Guy Lee, and by virtue of their office, the Officers Commanding the 1st, 2nd, 4th Battalions and Depot. 2. COMMITTEE MEETINGS. The Executive Committee and the Sub-Committee, during the period under report, have each held five ordinary meetings. In addition, the Executive Committee has held two emergency meetings. The services of the Sub-Committee have been much appreciated by the Executive Commivtce, which is most grateful to Major F. \V. Foster and. the various Branch Representatives attending. t h b •d e a c o n . m

3. MEMBERSHIP. :; ; ; ^ Number of New Life Members • ...... ; ... , ... 540 ,, „ ,, Annual Members ...... 519 ,,’■ Associate Members - - .i:' — ... i; ; ; 39 - : ,, ,, „ . Associate Life Members . ... , ...... 5

• ' - • : ; ■’ ; • ; ..7','' u o 3 ; . ' / ; A number of old members who have ceased for a considerable period to subscribe to the Association, have in accordance with the amended rule, been struck off.the roll. The Com­ mittee hopes that the majority of these may find it possible to rejoin the Association at an early date, and realizing the advantages of being members. : . ■ .7 The Committee is particularly pleased with the number of new Life Members—540— which satisfactory result .is primarily due to practically all serving soldiers becoming Life Members; certain Branches, too,,shew a considerable increase in this direction. ’ The Committee would again draw attention to the tremendous advantage, both to the individual, member and to the Association as a , whole, by all who possibly can afford it,-becoming Life Members. • ; . -: ......

4. BRANCHES. J • Total . Life, Subscriptions Strength. Members. Received. ' ' £ s. d. 1. Ashford...... 232. 26 25 8 0 2. London...... 706 179 .. ■ 42.12 ..0. 3. Dover ...... 197 62 16 5 0 4,. . Weald ... .A/ ■ . ... 271. 48 . 23 10 0 5,. Med way . ; . 7...... 119 23 10 11 0 :6. ■ Sittingbourne ,• ... 114 ■ 20 : 5 15 0 7. Ramsgate .... . 17,4 : 14 • .13 0 0 8. Margate ... 236 35 23 17 0 9. Hythe .... • ... ; • 45 '• 6 3 12 0 10. Canterbury ...... 219 • 61 ■' 16 12 6i: 11. Folkestone ...... 158 33 19. 9 6 12. Sandwich . >, ...... 61 lo 8 12 6 13. 1st Battalion ...... 668 . 645 243 8 6 14. 2nd Battalion ...... i 357 332 112 5' 0 15. Depot ... — ... . 22 12 6 Total ...... 3,577 1,494 £587 10 6

The Executive Committee offers its very hearty thanks to the officials of- the various Branches, without whose cordial co-operation-, keenness and hard work, it would have been impossible to efficiently administer the Association, which has now such a large membership. The Committee feels sure that all members of all Branches are equally grateful to theft executives, who have devoted many hours of their- spare time towards furthering the aims-arid objects of the Association.

5. EMPLOYMENT, In spite of the terrible amount of unemployment, the Committee is pleased to arinorince that there has been an increase over the preceding year in the number ..of members for whom the Association (both Headquarters and Branches) has found permarient employment. The Committee would respectfully, congratulate and thank the Colonel of the Regiment for his personal and.yery successful efforts in this direction. - • 272 t h e T DRAGON

6. THE COTTAGE HOMES. The four cottages are occupied and in good repair. It will be seen from the Balance Sheet that the Homes are in a very sound financial position. Since the last report the Homes have become a registered Charity under the Charity Commissioners, thereby obviating a recurring expenditure in the appointment of new trustees, and ensuring the recovery of all income tax on invested capital.

7. MEMORIALS.

( а ) The Buffs Memorial in Mauritius has been completely restored and placed'in a more lasting condition than ever before. The thanks :of the Regiment are due to Major Joly de Lotbiniere, C.R.E., Mauritius, for supervising the work and seeing that the best value possible was obtained for the expenditure incurred by the Association. (б) A donation from the Association funds has been made towards the upkeep of the Peninsula Memorial, at Biarritz. (c) A donation of twenty-five guineas has been sent to the War Memorial Fund of The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada.

( d ) A very successful Battlefield Tour, organised by Mr. Peacock, under the auspices of the London Branch, has recently been completed. .

8. “ THE DRAGON.” The circulation has increased, but the Executive Committee is of opinion that there is still room for further improvement in this direction, and would point out to all members of the Association, both serving and retired, that the profit on the paper is transferred annually to the Association account, thereby benefiting every member of the Association. The Committee wishes to particularly place on record its appreciation of the way in which serving soldiers, Ashford and Sandwich Branches have subscribed to. the paper. The profit for the period under review amounted to £165 13s. 9d., an increase over the preceding year of £17 17s. 6d., and this profit has been transferred to the Association account. The profit would have been considerably greater but for a heavy loss in advertisements, primarily due to the change] of stations from Aldershot to Shorncliffe, the tradespeople at the .former, during the period the Battalion was in Blenheim Barracks, having fully realised the advan­ tages of advertising in The Dragon.

9. ALLIED REGIMENTS. The most cordial relations have been maintained between the Regiment and our three allied regiments: The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, The Vancouver Regiment, and The 3rd Battalion (Werriwa Infantry) Australian Military Forces.

10. THE LADIES’ GUILD. Three Branches of the Guild have now been formed. All these Branches are doing excellent work, and support the Association with the greatest enthusiasm and usefulness. The total membership of each Branch is as follows :— London Branch ...... 166 Dover Branch ...... 47 Folkestone Branch ...... 24 ■vT'HE TiRAGON 273

11. -FINANCE.. ^ ; The Balance Sheets and Statements: of Accounts are before yon and will be published, together with this report, in The Dragon. . ■ ; • As stated in paragraph (3),. 540 Life Members have joined, as such, during the year. In accordance with precedents a sumof:£432 should have been invested as capital. ,The actual sum invested has been £179. Os..0d., a.deficit of £253. ’ Owing to the general financial 'depression, annual subscribers have in many cases been unable to pay their-subscriptions on January* 1st; on March 31st, 1931, £164 7s. 6d. was still, outstanding;' this shews a decrease from the previous year, when £256 12s. 6d. was the deficit. Further subscriptions have been received since the *end of the financial year, which has made it possible to invest a further £100. The Committee, while regretting the} impossibility of investing the full amount; realises the difficulties of members and sympathises'with them, and feels sure that all will make every endeavour to remit) .either through. Branches dr direct to Headquarters, their overdue 1931 subscriptions: During the period, as compared with the previous year, a saving has been effected in the following administrations at Headquarters:—clerical staff, £6 ; • telephone, £11 ; postage, £17, consequent upon London Branch ftaying half their Branch postage. The value of investments on all funds has increased. The total grants have exceeded, as might be expected, those made in 1930. Pensions shew an increase of £20. The Secretary's travelling expenses have increased by 100%. The Committee wish to thank Lady Iynden-Bell and Miss Eynden-Bell for the valuable assistance rendered to the Benevolent Fund, resulting from a Variety Entertainment organised by them at Sevenoaks, consequent on which, either directly or indirectly, the fund benefited to over £100. To Sir Edmund Davis and Lady Houston the Committee wish also to record their gratitude for their very generous donations. ,

12. REGIMENTAL HISTORIES. It is to be regretted that it has not yet been found possible>to arrange for the compilation and publication of the Regimental History for the. period 1704—1914. . The Committee wishes to record its appreciation of the efforts now being made on behalf of the Regiment by Mr. J. Druce of Goudhurst to acquire the Latham Medal.

REMARKS ON ANNUAL REPORT. Another highly satisfactory report. I am grieved' to think that a number of our members, owing to the dreadful conditions of unemployment, have been unable to pay their subscriptions and have consequently been for the moment struck off the list of members. I most earnestly hope that improved conditions may shortly enable them to rejoin, when they will be assured of a warm welcome. . . I am delighted to notice the increase in the number of Life Members. It is, as the report points out, a tremendous advantage to the individual member and the Association that everyone who can do so should join up as a Life Member.I I am most grateful to the Committee for their very kind references to my family and myself. Needless to say, anything we can do to try- and help the Regiment or any member of it, we will most proudly do. • . 274 THE DRAGON

I wish most particularly to stress the great importance of every Buff who can do so buying a Dragon for himself or herself. . It is rather wicked to rely on someone else's Dragon. ' Anyone who buys a Dragon for himself or herself not only gets the latest Regimental mews, but helps our Regimental funds materially. In conclusion, I wish, on behalf of the Regiment and myself, to offer our heartfelt thanks for their magnificent work, to General McDouall and his Regimental Committee, to Major Foster -and the Sub-Committee, to our Branch Executives, to the Eadies’ Guild, and lastly but by no means least to our Secretary, Colonel Findlay, who,, in spite, of weather, influenza, and other adverse conditions, has carried on as gallantly and efficiently as ever. A. EYNDEN-BEEE, ' : Colonel of The Buffs.

Butcher, W. J. Brett, W. Manktelow, S. E- Ellender, The Past and Present Association. H. E. Champion, A, Crump, G. Mallion, W.. Ambrose, Donations. W. Bailey, E. F. Jeffery, H. Sinclair, S. W. P.’ Earnshaw, During the period 18/6/31. to 18/7/31 the following F. F. Ruffle, J. Brickell, W. R. Cannon, E. Frampton, donations have been made :— F. T. Money; E. E. B. Noble; G. C. Cocking, Burns, G. H. W. Meeking, H. Millington, E. W. Back. T h e Benevolent F und. Life Associate Members.—Captains the Hon. W. S. £ s. d. Cornwallis, M.C., A. E. Hardy ; . Messrs. J. Overton, 2nd Battalion The Buffs ...... 6 2 0 R. J. Geering. , , , G. W. Rivaz, Esq...... 2 2 0 Associate Members.—Messrs. J. J. Beall, G. C. Mr. Stephens, of Rangoon ...... 5 0 0 Skinner, T. Hopkins.

Disbursements. Ashford Branch. During the period 18/6/31 to 18/7/31 the following The Monthly Meeting was held at the Market Hotel on Saturday, disbursements have been made :— July 11th; there was a good attendance. Capt. A. C. Crothall being in the Chaiir with Mr. W. Fuller, Vice-Chairman; Mr. E. H. Chambers, £ s. d. Secretary ; Mr. A. F. Tomsett, Assistant Secretary ; Mr. L- H. Mills, 19. Grant • • ... l 0 0 Pianist. , , 19. Grant ..; i 0 0 The agenda being rather a large one, the meeting settled down to 19. Grant i 0 0 business right away. The Minutes, Correspondence and Cash Account being read and 19. Grant ,,, i 0 0 confirmed, the next business was the election of a Chairman and Vice- 22. Grant ... i 0 0 Chairman, this being necessitated upon the resignation of Mr. II. Ades 25. Grant ... 2 0 0 (Chairman) and Mr. C. Waghorn (Vice-Chairman). The result of the election was that Mr. F. C. Stoker was elected Chairman arid Mr. W. 26. Grant « • • i 0 0 Fuller, Vice-Chairman. 29. Grant i 0 0 The Branch took part in the Annual Church Parade at South 4. Grant ... 2 0 0 Ashford on Sunday, July 19th, Unfortunately the rain prevented 7. Grant ... 1 io 0 the route march being carried out; the Parade forming up and march­ ing direct to Church. 14. Grant • . 1 0 0 All Members are asked to attend the re-union at The Depot on 18. Grant ... 0 10 0 Sunday, August 16th. And also to parade in the Market Place on Sunday, September 20th at 10 a.m. for the Branch Annual Church Parade. Representative? of other Branches are cordially invited to attend. New Mem bers. E.H.C. Life Members.—Captain T ait; Lieut. Rogers; L/Cpls. Elderkin, Morrison, Hayman; Ptes. Curtis, Mansfield, G. Ireland; Messrs. C. M. Thomas, C. London Branch. McKenzie Wells, W. J. Manning, P. W. Green, T. A very large gathering of members took place on July 18th last at the usual monthly meeting ; the minutes of the last meeting were White, PI. Marshall, P. F. Potter, A. G. Stephens, read and confirmed; Letters were read from . the Colonel of the H. A. Rosson, J. F. Elliott, G. A. W. Hiley, G. H. Regiment, Major James, Major Keown, Mr. P. Minter, C.Q.M.S. Smith Mills. and Mr. Peacock. Annual Members.—Ptes. A. Surturs, E .. Chapman, W e l c o m e .—Captain Enright heartily welcomed the many new . members and particularly Captain Johnson who will be remembered A. Cook, F. Daniels, O’Leary, G. Carroll, A. Sage, by old Buffs as R.Q.M.S. of the 2nd Battalion in Kilkenny, Brighton H. Medcroft, J. Cater, R. Calloway, L. Curtis, F. Ward, and the early days of the South African War. Captain Johnson said S. Pipkin, R. Newton, W. Hodgkins, H. Cohen, GV how thankful he was to find himself back again in the fold, It had been vears of exile ; vears trying to picture scenes of a past; years trying Darlow, L. Brown, A. Blyth, C. Underhill, J. Millin, to recall old" faces. Now—it has all corne as if a dream to him at the J. Hill, W. Mills, A. Biggins, G. Grover, A. Bicker, age of 71. liv accident, through meeting Bunny Austin in a milk shop W. Marchant, G. Grovenor, J. Pizzey, T. Greengrow, in Essex, who gave him an enrolment form. Looking round the room and seeing such old faces as Tommy Cook, Erny Carter, Spud A. Bison; Messrs. C. P. Parmiter, C. H. W. Stallard, Austin, Donkey Warren, etc., made his heart rejoice and he was not F. Bentail, E- G. Reynolds, A. Gilvin, W. H. Hole, going to miss a meeting. ■ • • • ' P. Ferman, J. Philpot, V. Hellis, E. Gilham, J. W. S h o r n c l if f e .— Major R. T. Monier Williams addressed the mem­ Hukins, L. W. Lukeman, A. G. Manvill, C. W. Green, bers and told how lie was so impressed by the. wonderful parade at Shomcliffe. It was an impression firmly fixed and he most strongly C. A. Richardson," F. C. Baine, P. R. Blake, A. H. urged all present never to miss such parades. What he felt mostly, Fullford, A. Welsh, W. E. Smith, T. J. Edwards, R. W.' was the extraordinary smartness of the soldier trained under peace­ E. Gilbert, H. B. Hewlett, G. Wood, C. J. Carter, W. P. time conditions ; it was a revelation to many who had riot had that experience. He felt that such a high standard spoke volumes for the Burrin, E. V. Bridgwater, C. F. Edmonds, J. Sutherland, zeal and enefgv of R.S.M. Vaughan' (loud cheers) whom he thought, J. W. P. Sumner, C. E- Cope, A. Dorrington, W. J. was not otilv a strict disciplinarian, but that he wus extremely popular Page, F. Roblin, J. H. Morgan, A. F. Dean, P. A, throughout "the battalion. Captain T. O. Cook, in replying to Major THE DRAGON 275

Monier Williams said, tlial as an old R.S.M. liimself, he could endorse Woolwich Co-operative Society v . Condon Branch. everything that had been spoken. It was a hard task to get a battalion Woolwich Co-operative Society. London Branch. in the palm of the hand ; the confidence of all ranks in their R.S.M. Thomas, c...... 0 Mills, b...... was essential and he knew Vaughan must have that confidence other­ Henlev, run out...... 22 C. Barden, b...... 0 wise the battalion would not be what it is to-day—second to none. Reeves, c...... 2 Russell, b...... 0 (Cheers), Show, b...... 2 Dixon, b...... Canterbury.—A letter was read from Mr. Peacock from the Poloel, b...... 7 H. Barden, c...... Southern Railway pointing out the only train stop would be Bromley Simmons, st...... 4 C. Household, b...... 1 South. A letter was read by Mr. Green pointing out the rail fare was . 0 ... 9 reduced to 6/6. Mr. Green acted for Mr. Peacock in collecting fares, Berrv, run out...... 2 Hickey, b...... 1 etc. The Chairman, Capt. Enright, gave the meeting full details Benny, mil out...... 0 Aldridge, e...... 2 connected with “II.O.” arrangements pointing out the necessity of Thayes, st...... 1 Waters, b...... 4 everyone warning in early. . 9 Association Annual R eport.—The Association Annual Report Extras...... 11 Extras...... 7 was circulated amongst those present. Spouts Section.---Mr. Household gave a report on what was being Total...... 51 Totai...... 39 done at Cricket and Mr. Covency reported progress in the “ Colonel Findlay Cup ” competition at Billiards. Many T hanks.—During the meeting, Mr. Tambliu offered to purchase a return railway ticket for any member who was not enjoy­ On the 19th July a match was played against South Bermondsey, ing good luck in order that such member could go to Canterbury. a very strong side, who are the leaders of the South-Eastern Cricket This was quickly followed by Capt. T. O. Cook and his two sons who Ccague. l'lie weather was dreadful and play was only possible between offered to provide three tickets. Many thanks. the showers. South Bermondsey batted first and knocked up 130, . _ J.E. during the process of which the pitch was turned into a quagmire of mud. Notwithstanding this disadvantage and wet clothes the Condon Branch Cricket Club. Branch replied with 55, a highly creditable performance. On the 5th July we played the United Dairies at Harrow Meadows, On the 26th it rained all day. This was another disappointing and won by 6 runs after a keenly-contested game. The Buffs scored Sunday, more especially as llie Branch team were playing, a team got 96 lo their opponents’ 90 runs. The margin ought to have been greater together by Capt. Enright and which comprised such good old stalwarts if the fielding had been smarter and more sprightly. As an onlooker, as Donkev Warren, Erny Carter, Bobby Wittering, Ted Eatnb and it seemed as if one or two fieldsmen were inclined to think the ball Cushy Bolton. Out of the 22 players warned on both sides no less than would never be hit in their direction instead of being on tip-toe expect­ 16 turned out, each expecting to be the only Buff silly enough to make ing it. Again, if catches had been held—and easy ones at tha t i t would the journey. Anyhow, we played eight aside, but the match was have saved many runs. We are anxiously looking forward to the brought to a premature conclusion through a serious, accident to Charlie inclusion of Majors Vaughan, Keown and Mr. Gordon I.indlay when Household which caused at the time grave concern, necessitating health and business permit. Anyhow, we promise the 2nd Battalion Mr. Mills rushing him off to the nearest doctor'by car. In endeavour­ a real good game when they come to I.ondon. On the 12th July we ing to play a stroke he hit the ball which seemed to run up the bat as played the Woolwich Co-operative Society, a team of no small reputa­ it were—into his face seriously injuring his nose which was split out tion, and lost by 11 runs. On this occasion it was gratifying to observe and in and all efforts to try and stop the great loss of blood were un­ the fielding was exceptionally dean and nothing was given away. availing. He stuck it like the great Buff he is and although plastered, Our foremost batsman, however, did not enjoy the best of luck but— we are glad it has left no lasting effects. it is all in the game. Mr. Mills behind the stumps is doing wonders ; Eondon Branch v . South Bermondsey some of his catches being worthy of Ames. South Bermondsey. Eondon Branch v . United Dairies. E. Merritt’, e Barden, b Coveney...... 35 London Branch. United Dairies. Pearson, c Hickey, b H. Barden...... 12 Mills, run out...... 14 Wright, b...... 4 Allen, c Dixon, b Russell...;...... 0 H. Barden, b ...... 4 Tames, c...... 0 Davis, st Mills, b Coveney..;...... 4 W. Household, b...... 0 Stevens, e...... i II. Merritt, retired...... :...... 31 Dixon, b...... 45 Bobs, b...... 2 Osbourne, b Russell...... 3 Wabv, b...... Smith, e...... s W. Merrit, ruti out...... 22 C. Household, b...... I Ernest, c...... 1 Earnout, st Mills, b Coveney...... 6 .... 17 Burgess, not out...... 4 Schofield, st Mills, b Coveney...... 4 Aldridge, c...... 1 Greenwood, b...... 1 Extras...... 9 Harrison, b...... 8 Burgess, b...... Waters, not out...... 0 Franks, not out...... 30 Total...... 130 Extras...... 10 Extras...... S London Branch. Total...... 96 Total...... Mills, b H. Merritt...... 12 II. Barden, c and b Schofield...... 0 W. Household, c Burgess, b Schofield...... 0 Dixon, e Schofield, b Merritt...... 3 C. Barden, c Allen, b Burgess...... 15 Russell, b E. Merritt...... 0 C. Household, c Osborne, b II. Merritt...... 1 Hickey, b H. Merritt...... 1 Coveney, not out...... '...... 10 Waters, b Burgess...... 0

Eondon Branch v . The R est. T h e R e s t. Osmond, b Russell...... 24 Capt. Carter, b H. Barden...... 2 Bolton, e Mills, b C. Household...... 15 Warren, c and b C. Household...... 0 Capt. Enright, not out...... 3 Wittering, b C. Household...... 1 Eamb, run out...... 0 Bagwell, lbw, b Russell...... 7 Extras...... 4 Total...... 61

The Branch. Mills, not out...... 8 H. Barden, b Osmond...... 0 W. Household, b Osmond...... 0 Russell, e Capt. Carter, b Osmond...... 6 C. Household, retired hurt...... 11 Extras...... 6 Total...... *25 London Branch Cricket Team. ♦Match abandoned through injury to Mr. C. Household. 2?6 THE DRAEON

E lection of Officers.—There were only three nominations for the Committee and those three filled the vacancies. The following are new members of the Committee :— President : The Hon. Cady Cynden-Bell. Vice-Presidents: Mrs. Crookendcn, Mrs. Guv Cce, Mrs. Neale Dalton. C h a ir m a n : Mrs. W. E. Spinner. Hon. Treasurer : Mrs. C. Carter. Hon. Secretary : Mrs. M. Camb. Committee : Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Austin, Mrs. Dicker, Mrs. Waters, Mrs. McAbeer and Miss Redman. W.E.S.

Dover Branch. The chief activity of this Branch during the month of July has been “ The Buffs Eete and Fair ” which was held at the 4th Battalion Drill Hall, Dover and the grounds adjoining on Wednesday and Thursday, 8tli aud 9th Julv. Unfortunately attendances were not as large as one could have wished, but this is probably due to the general depress­ ion which exists throughout every'country at present; nevertheless, it is hoped that considering everything, a respectable result will be obtained. The Fete was opened on the first day by the Hon. Cady T.ynden Bell who was presented with a bouquet by Miss Peggy Foster, the granddaughter of the Chairman of the Dover Branch. Accompanying Cadv Cynden Bell were Major-General Sir Arthur Cynden Bell, K.C.B., K.CM.G., TJeut.-Colonel and Mrs. Crookendcn, Dr. E. Elliot (Chair­ man of the Fete and Fair), Colonel and Mrs. II. Findlay, and Mrs. Morgan. An escort for the Colonel of The Buffs was found by four Boys from The Duke of York’s Royal Military School, Dover, whose fatiiers have served in The Buffs. The Fete was opened on the second day by Mrs. Crookendcn who was accompanied by Brigadier-General Mrs. and Miss McDouall and Brevet Eieut.-Colonel IE Thomson, O.B.E. Amongst others present during both days of the Fete were Eieut.- Colonel and Mrs. Collard, Captain Wood, Eicuts. Nicholson, Bruce and Connollv (2nd Battalion), Eieut. Iggulden (4th Battalion), 2/Eieut. Pevton (Somerset Eight Infantry), 2/Eieut. A. C. Roberts (4th Battalion). The Silver Spoon for Men competing on the Miniature Range was won by Eieut. Bruce of the 2nd Battalion with a possible and the Silver Spoon for Eadies was won by Mrs. Ritchie, wife of Capt. S. J. Ritchie, M.C., of The Seafortli Highlanders, with a score of 49 out of 50. To mention individually everyone who helped would fill this magazine, but we should like to especially thank C.S.M. Eove and his working party for the splendid work they did and their un­ tiring energv without which the Fete would undoubtedly not have been as successful as it was. We should also like to thank the Members of The Royal Exchange Assurance Company’s Dover Staff, Toe. 11. and the Dover Rugby Club for the excellent way they took charge of the M r. (Nobby) Clarke in his new uniform. Side-Shows. And last, but not least, we must sincerely thank W. S. J. Williams, Esq., and the Staff of The National Provincial Bank, Dover, of which Mr. Williams is Manager, for the splendid way they took Cricket N otes. control of the financial side of the Fete and Fair. The Tea Tent and We hope Mr. Osmond's cricketing engagements will permit him to Ice Cream Stall were most capably managed by the Members of The play against the 2nd Battalion during their stay in Condon, and we Dover Eadies’ Guild. hope to have him, Major Vaughan, Major Keovvn continually with us We trust that as many Members as possible of the Dover Branch every Sunday next season. The accident to Charlie Household on will turn up at Canterbury for the Memorial Service on Sunday, 16th the 26th July was keenly felt by all the players, particularly by Capt. August and so help to make the Parade even larger than last year. Enright who bowled the ill-fated ball.

L a d ie s’ Gu id e . The Annual General Meeting of The Buffs Ladies’ Guild (London) Sittingbourne Branch. took place on July 4th at the Prince Alfred Restaurant. The minutes Minutes of the 31st Monthly Meeting held at the Drill Hall on of the last meeting were read and confirmed. Friday evening, 3rd July, 1931. Annual Report.—The Annual Report was adopted, and it was Owing to the Chairman being unable to attend Sgt. Osborne kindly proposed that the printing of same be paid for from Guild Funds, took the Chair. which was carried. The Minutes of the last Meeting were read and signed as correct. F inance.—The Guild Funds stand at £48 10s. Od. in bank. Sgt. Osborne kindly consented to attend the next Sub-Committee B enevolence.—During the year the sum of £10 6s. 2d. has been Meeting to be held at Canterbury on Saturday, lltli July. expended in Benevolent work. It was proposed, seconded and carried that the arrangements for Correspondence.—Regrets from many members who are on the Memorial Service at Canterbury oh Sunday, August 16th be the holidays. A letter was read from Mrs. Durgin (nee Ella I,ee) thanking same as last year. the members for their Wedding Gift and wishing them success in all Immediately after the Meeting a Shooting Match and series of their undertakings. games were played against the Workmen's Club, with the following Sick.—The Chairman again made reference to Mrs. Burt’s prolonged results :— illness and it was proposed a letter be sent to her. Shooting. Mrs. Conaron is very ill in Romford Hospital. Letters have been Past and Present. Workmen's Club. sent. It was with much pleasure Mrs. Taylor was welcomed after her Sgt. O sborne...... 45 Mr. T. Mills ...... 0 long serious illness. Mr. W. Sinclair . 31 Mr. R. Taylor ... 14 R egret.—It is with great regret that Mrs. Neale Walton who had E/Cpl. J. Ravensdale . 26 Mr. R. Churchill ... 22 been Hon. Treasurer since the Guild’s formation, had to resign from Mr. T. Mills ...... 38 Mr. B. Fletcher 3 that position, and was therefore elected a Vice-President. Mr. E. S p ic e ...... 28 Mr. 11. Phillips ... 6 Sgt. G. Davis...... 31 Mr. D. Palmer ... 30 Thanks.—The Chairman thanked the Committee for the sick- C.S.M. Clancj' . 42 Mr. T. Lodge 4 visiting during the year, the number of Buffs visited being 30. Mr. A. E. Foster . 37 Mr. A. Eewry ... 31 A vote of thanks was accorded the Chairman for the way she had Mr. T. P'oord ... . 33 Mr. I,. Fletcher ... 33 worked during the formation of the Guild, and also coupled the Hon. Mr. J. F r o s t ...... 35 Mr. E. J. Catt ,.. 7 Secretary’s name. Mrs. Spinner, in replying on behalf of Mrs. Lamb and herself, said 346 150 it was the Committee and Members who worked so well and she was proud to be their Chairman. The Workmen’s Club won the Card Games at 4 to nil. 1'H E DRAGON 277

THE BUFFS’ FETE AND FAIR [Dover Express A t the B uffs’ Drill Hall, on Wednesday. The Colonel of the Regiment and the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion, with fo u r sons of B uffs, who are now at the Duke of York’s R .M . School. Reading from left to right :— Boy M artin (son of Sergt. Martin, 1st Battalion the B uffs), Colour- Cpl. Follett (son of C.S.M. Follett, 2nd Battalion), Major-General Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell (Colonel of the Buffs), Lance-Cpl. Bloxham (son of Sergt. Bloxham, 2nd Battalion), Boy Burvill (son of C.Q.M.S. Burvill, 2nd Battalion), and Lieut.-Colonel J. Crookenden (Commanding Officer, 2nd Battalion the Buffs). Canterbury Branch. with other organisations in the Town with a view to fixing the season’s social events, to avoid clashing of dates and to assist our patrons in The Canterbury Branch held their usual Monthly Meeting at the arranging their engagements. “ White Lion ” on Friday, 3rd July, a fair number being present including Lieut.-Colonel Collard, T.D., Lieut.-Colonel Thomson, M.B.E., On Sunday, June 28th several members of the Branch with their Lieut. Verlandcr and others. The business was soon disposed of, Ladies journeyed to Wrotliam, leaving the Drill Hall at 9.15 a.m. tiic principal item of interest being the proposal for a day out in Motor We proceeded via Canterbury, Sittingbourne, etc., to Rochester, Coaches on Sunday, 6th September. Mr. Brisscnden was appointed where a short halt was made. Cutting across country we made for to take names for this event. Members of tire Herne Bay Sub-Branch Wrotham, arriving there about 11.45. We soon made tracks for the arrived with their very efficient band, glasses were filled and the Branch meadow and were just busy with the luncheon when we had the settled down to a musical evening. pleasure of a visit from the Colonel of the Regiment, who had a pleasant During the interval, the Chairman, Mr. T. Holloway, ’welcomed word for all, and kindly invited everyone to pay a visit to the grounds Lieut.-Colonel Thomson, Commanding The Depot and said what a of “ Stone Ridge,” an invitation which was keenly accepted. At great pleasure it was to the Branch to have him with us and that we 4 p.m., by the kind invitation of General Sir Arthur and Lady Lynden- hoped to see a lot of him during his Command. Bell, a number of members and their ladies partook of a gala tea of The Colonel replied in a characteristic speech, remarking that not strawberries and cream, and Buff cake. After lea the male members only was it a pleasure, but a duty to attend. As a “ present ” he explored the Colonel’s den where some interesting photographs were emphasised the link of comradeship with the “ past ” as expressed to be seen, of tire boys of the Old Brigade. Following this everyone by the Past and Present Association and hoped Canterbury and the was the recipient of a bunch of heather, of which Stone Ridge has District would do their best to stimulate all Buffs to maintain that very abundance. Six p.m. came all too soon, but having a journey before high standard of united mutual service and helpfulness that had always us, the flock was rounded up and we said good-bye to Wrotham at been the slogan of the Regiment. He also asked all past members to 6.30 p.m., returning via Maidstone and Lenham, where an halt was be on the qui vive for likely recruits and help to send Men of Kent to made for half-an-hour to refill with “ Dragon Blood,” arriving at their own Regiment. Sandwich about 9.45 p.m. having spent a most enjoyable day. The following entertained the Branch :—Mr. Vidler, at the Piano ; Messrs. Oliver, Miller, Brissenden, Duncan, Chapman, Crouch, Willis, Larkin, Ells, Mellin, and Boswell ; also, last, but not least, Herne Bay’s Sub-Branch Jazz Band who at the end of a very enjoyable Folkestone Branch. evening very ably rendered, as we all stood to attention, the Regimental As mentioned in my last notice this Branch had decided to hold March and The National Antlicm. their usual Monthly Meeting away from Folkestone and accordingly' on Tuesday, the 14th instant, about forty members of the Brandi proceeded to the Red Lion, Denton, where a meeting wras held followed Sandwich Branch. by a Concert, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all present. The The Monthly Meeting was held at the Drill Hall on Friday, July weather was not by' any means kind and therefore the attendance ivas 10th, a t 8 p.m., Major F. W. Tomlinson presiding and a fair number all the more gratifying. of members being present. The Association’s Annual Report was read In view of the fact that our next Monthly Meeting is just prior to and discussed, special note being made, re the sale of The Dragon. the.Memorial Service at Canterbury it will be held at the usual place— It was earnestly hoped that the circulation of this most interesting the Drill Hall, Sliellons Street, Folkestone, at 8.15, and it is hoped that paper would continue to increase. The August re-union was discussed every member of the Branch will endeavour to be present at the and it was agreed that all members be notified by special card, giving Memorial Service. details for this event. It was proposed that this Branch get in touch Smudger. 278 . THE DRAGON 1st Battalion. INCE last month's notes unfortunate part is that the local public did S were sent a great deal not patronise it sufficiently well. Very few has happened in the batta­ indeed of the cheapest seats were taken, and lion. Firstly, “C" Company I am afraid that the profits cannot have been has returned from the Anda­ very great. ' mans and, judging by their The programme was remarks, I gather that there . are many who would have 1. M a r c h . S e a S o n g s . liked to have remained there 2. S e l e c t io n f r o m E a T r a v ia t a . 3. P o s t H o r n S o l o ... B d m . I r e l a n d for the term of their enlist­ (This item was greatly appreciated.) ment. . 4. P ia n o f o r t e S o l o : Nocturne ... Then the battalion was - . B d m . Cl e g g • suddenly, ordered to find 5. T h e S h o e B a l l e t . T g p t a & f r a party of sixty other ranks 6. / E i g h t Ca v a l r y O v e r t u r e . to go to a spot called 7 . • T o n e P o e m : Naunglebin (sorry if I have “ In the Steppes of Central Asia." spelt it wrong, no map available) and deal . ;8. S o n g “ The Eute Player ” B d m . D a v is with a jail outbreak there. This party was 9 . M o o n l ig h t S o n a t a . . .. found from "‘A” Company, and ever since their departure their Company Commander His Excellency the Governor and Eady Innes, who had arrived during the preceding has been moaning to me about his difficulty in getting his rugger fifteen going. However, week, extended their patronage to the concert. I understand that the party is being gradually I regret to say that Mr; Salmon is now in relieved- by “C" Company, and Captain Essell hospital, but I hope that his stay there will is more cheerful. not be too long. ^The month also saw the arrival of the 12th An account of the B.A.B.A. is enclosed. Brigade from India. The Manchesters and Our thanks are due to Armourer Staff-Sergeant Dogras have gone north ; The 3/16th Punjabs Hubbard for all the trouble he took with our and The Baluchi Regiment have remained team. Our men fought well, but were up in the Rangoon Brigade Area. The rains, against very stiff propositions, which were having started in real earnest, managed on too good for them. the occasion of each arrival to make the at­ mosphere of Rangoon more depressing by shrouding the city in a blanket of rain. Boxing Notes. The Burma Amateur Boxing Championships, 1931 His Excellency the Governor and Eady started in Rangoon on Monday, June 29tli, preliminary Innes returned from Maymyo on June 14th, rounds taking two days, the remaining time being and the new Brigadier (Colonel P, R. Commings) occupied with the semi-finals and finals. The results arrived on the same day. He will be remem­ so far as the. battalion boxers are concerned are as follows :— bered by many people who were with the PTE. Blake v. G. Goodie.—Blake’s opponent battalion at Gibraltar but who have left for in this fight was the holder of his weight, and proved other spheres of work since then. a formidable opponent with a smashing left. Blake put up a game fight, although down for six in the first Football has come into its own. The and last rounds. Battalion has won two of its matches in the PTE. M i l l s v. A. DevELLEREZ.— Mills’ opponent in league and lost two. An account of these this fight was well-trained, with a good style and long reach. Realising his' disadvantage in this direction, appears elsewhere. Mills forced the pace, keeping well into his opponent. Rugger has ' also started. “D ” Company A scrappy fight ended in Mills’ favour by a narrow put out a team against Steel's. Although margin.. L/Ci'L. F in c h v. L/Cpl. E d w a r d s (52nd L.I.).— heavily beaten, the team enjoyed the game Edwards, being well-known as the victor in a fight and learnt a lot, and I hope there will be some against Pte. Bentley, was naturally expected to be an more matches fixed up. easy winner. This supposition proved groundless, Finch putting up a remarkable fight in the first two On June. 21st the Band gave a concert rounds, but thron~h lack of training could not last, in aid of the Soldiers' Hut in Rangoon. The and Edwards obtain : the verdict on points. Bandmaster is to be congratulated very Pte. Woods v. L/'Cpl. Armitage (Manchester Regiment). In this fight Woods had a tough propo­ heartily on the most excellent and well-reuder-ed sition, his opponent being the holder of the Lightweight programme, that he had organised. The only Championship of Burma. He did, however, prove to TH E DRAGON 279

Armitage that his punch was something to keep clear good understanding, after a shaky opening, and in time will prove a Stumbling-block to opposing forwards. The half-line, as a whole,- were of, more than once shaking him up. At the end of the . good, our centre-half being an untiring worker. Here, however, at second round points were about level, but Woods left-half, we suffered a great handicap, in that he completely failed to appeared to weaken off.. He received a.great ovation “ Stay the pace.” The forwards (Alas—a sorry tale). In this depart­ from the audience for his plucky fight. ment, however, we were again under a great disadvantage, in that a newcomer in the centre, completely failed to hold his line together L/Cpl. D e n h a m v. PTE. .F ro s t (52nd LJ.).—This . and also wasted numerous golden opportunities which came his way. proved a hard-hitting fight, both being capable of a Also, a couple of them, making their first appearance in a representa­ tive game, appeared to be suffering from-that malady known as “ Stage . good right. Denham did not appear to be his usual Fright,” which in time I am sure they wilt overcome. AH things self, but with clever boxing was able to Obtain the considered for their initial appearance, our team acquitted fhemselves verdict by a small margin. well and when they know the ground better and each other's play, will, I feel sure, make their name in the League. With “ Honours ” D/Cpl. D en h am v. S. I. P. V iag n o .— Viagno knew against us we emerged as stated. Our team doing duty was :—Goal: little or nothing about, boxing, adopting a. crouching Crampton; Backs : Yates and Newbury; Half-Backs : Purkiss, attitude and delivering his blows low. I-Ie was warned Morris and West; Forwards: King, Coade, Davidson, Eke and three time in the first half-minute, being subsequently Marsh. Our second league match was played at the B.A.A. ground on disqualified. ;; Tuesday, 8th June, our opponents being the Friends’ Union Club. PTE. NiBGAEF (The. Buffs) v. PTE. KETTLE (The . This game saw us strengthened by the inclusion of Tutt and Vasey, who arrived with their Company from Port Blair on the 6th. Their Buffs).—This fight was very lively until half-way through advent to the team made a great difference, Tutt in particular hold­ the; second round, when Kettle went down to a right, ing the forward line together extremely well. This played a great part hook and was knocked-out. in our 3-0 victory. Our team are to be congratulated on their perfor­ mance, for although the Friends' Union are not a strong combination, PTE. M ile s v. PTE. A b b o tt (52nd L.I.).—This was they are nevertheless, dogged fighters and full of capabilities. After a disappointing, fight, both men having a tendency to an indifferent opening, our halves and full-backs took the game in hand lean and clinch. Abbott was a stronger fighter and and for the best part of the game mastered the opposing attack, who, however, stuck well to their task. ■ The team as a whole gave a much better trained and was awarded the verdict. improved display, and in this team I think ,we have at last found our P te . Harrengton v. P te. Ormsiiaw (52nd D.I.).— best side. With a little more practice, to enable them to know each Here again lack of- training proved the deciding factor. other’s play they will become a very strong combination. In goal, Crampton was rarely troubled, but what he did do, he done clean and Harrington could not stand the continued onslaught well. The backs were splendid,. Yates in particular, whose good tack­ of his opponent, and after many times being floored, ling and long passes were quite a feature of the match. The half- took the count in the second round. line was good, Purkiss being outstanding. The forwards* ably led by Tutt, gave an all round improved display. Marsh being very much in The final night found the Regimental boxers among the picture on the left, his two goals were real “ gems.” Tutt scored the finals, the results being as follows the other. ; Lightweight Championship D en h am v. Team on duty:—Goal: Crampton- Backs: Yates and New­ : L/Cpe. bury ; Half-Backs: Purkiss, Morris and Harlow, Forwards: King, L/Cpe. A rm ita g e (Manchesters).—Armitage being the Coade, Tutt, Vasey and Marsh. -V» ' holder, a tough fight was expected; Denham starting On Saturday, the'.l3th June, we were at Irisein in action against- a hot favourite. In the first round exchanges were one of the strongest, combinations in . the Rangoon Senior League. . fairly even, but the second saw signs of weakening the Burma Railways. The Railwaymen were-not'up to full strength, in Denham, who did not seem to be able to make any resting a few players in view of their league'encounter on the following .Monday. However, they were quite a useful side and gave us a very impression on his Opponent. In the last round Armitage interesting game. Our team, after an uncertain opening, settled down forced the pace and was awarded the verdict, and played good football. The forwards, fed. well by the halves, showed much better combination than in previous games, -with the W elterweight Championship : Pte. Nolan v. result that goals were produced. The game was marred by an un- L/C p l . T u r k (52nd L.I.).—Nolan appeared to shew fortunate accident to Yates, our right-back, who sustained a nasty, nothing like his usual form-and wasted too much time cut on the mouth. However, it was a very fast, clean and interesting game of Which’we ultimately ran out'winners 4-1. There were two in covering up after having made a filow. Turk is a alterations from the team which represented us against the Friends’ ; wonderful fighter and determined throughout, receiving Union, Pullman in goal in place of.Crampton, who was .suffering from the verdict. a sprained wrist, and Kemsley for Coade at inside-right. Our goal- scorers were Tutt, 2; King, and Vasey.. We look forward to our Heavyweight Championship : Pte. Spencer v. meeting with this team in the League. H i l t o n PTE. (Manchesters).-^-Spencer was up against Friday, the 19th June, was the'date of our third League match, an experienced man who is the Southern Command our opponents being the; Rangoon Customs, a very hot side and (India) Champion, and could not keep away from his favourites for the League. The game was witnessed by a very large opponents’ left, taking the count.in the first round. gathering of spectators. We put up a very gallant fight, mostly in defence, but were mastered; Crampton was the hero of the match The meeting closed after His Excellency the Governor and his brilliant saves kept the margin of Victory rather low. The of Burma had presented the cups to the winners. Customs’ defence played a great game,- particularly when handicapped - by the. absence of two of their men, one ordered off and the centre- forward injured. An element.of rough play was perceptible from the start and it was a great pity that the referee did not deal drastically, .Football Notes. with the situation at the commencement. We have earned a great • Thursday, the 4th June,, saw us playing our first League match on name for dean play in our previous encounters and the incidents whidi the Burma Athletic Ground, Rangoon, where all matches in this League occurred in this match are deeply to be regretted. There were faults are played. . Before dwelling oh the match, I should like to say a word bn both sides, which should have been checked early on. The Customs • about the ground and the spectators who' witness these games. The opened strongly and with a little luck might have scored. .Our halves ground is perfect, the turf being excellent and the drainage system failed to get in touch with the forwards, the result being that the perfect, in fact many of out leading clubs, at home would be proud to Customs monopolised the play for a period. Crampton and his backs possess one equally as good. The crowd, chiefly Burmans, are. rose finely to the occasion and after a while the pressure was relieved. intelligent and know a great deal about the game, and are very keen Our forwards got into their stride, but met with dour resistance from ■ • to show their delight a t any trickery, etc., which may. occur in the the Customs defence. End to end play followed and half-time arrived course of the match. Oh the whole good sportsmen. . with the score-blank. The game had scarcely been resumed 5 minutes All eyes were upon us as we entered the: field for the opening game, when the Customs centre-forward eluded Our defence and his final., which was played under perfect Conditions, Having twice been shot left our goalie helpless, an excellent goal. Vge went further in., rcviously beaten, by our opponents, the Burma Police, we knew we arrears when the Customs'centre-half scored with a ‘‘free’! from ad a hard nut to crack in this game. ; The game Was exceedingly fast 25 yards out, our goalie being, unsighted. Shortly after this- one of throiighout and the spectators were treated to some very good foot­ their players received V marching orders.” At this" point we were ' ball. On a slippery surface, our opponents controlled tlie heavy ball practically at a standstill, the Customs footwork had us completely . remarkably well and by dint of their short passing, often had our guessing. Towards the finish our forwards improved, but failed in defence guessing. .However, our men stuck to their task gamely front of goal and so after a very hard and somewhat dirty game we ; and in the end only managed to succumb 1-0. A very interesting retired losers 2-0. The team played far below standard and there is game, full of thrills throughout. The Police have a very useful side need for a great deal of improvement, especially in the forward depart­ and will, I am sure, go a very long way in this league. A word about ment. However, we hope for better results in the near future. Our our team in general. Our goalkeeper played an exceedingly good team -lined up as follows :— game, one save in particular being miraculous, and earned rounds of Goal: Crampton ; Backs r Yates and Newbury ; Half-Backs: applause. He showed style and confidence and in no way could he be Purkiss, Morris and Harlow; Forwards; King, Kemsley, Tutt, ! blamed for the solitary point registered. The full-backs played with Vasey and Marsh. ‘ 8 TE DRAGON1 THE 280

Drum Major Featherstone and Drums 1st Battalion at Richmond Barracks, Dublin, 1884 THE DRAGON 281

On the 26th we met the Municipals, a very good local eleven. For A whist, drive was held on the 20th, but according this match we were forced to make a couple of alterations which I am glad to relate proved highly satisfactory. Yates was in Hospital to the attendance it was not very popular. and Vasey took his place ; in the forward line Tutt was moved to Someone has suggested a more strenuous form of inside-left, Kemsley to centre and Coade was brought back in his old place, inside-right. Our team settled down and our forwards soon recreation, and Meakin and Glazier are strong advocates got into their stride. Attacking in line, they gave promise of an early for rugger, whilst the Bandmaster, supported by Thomas, goal, but Coade’s shot was eventually round the post for a fruitless remain staunch for bridge. Turner is for a round of corner. Not to be denied, however, they were soon back in the opposing visits, not forgetting Sale Barracks, and he has many goal area and their efforts were rewarded by a fine goal from Tutt, who crowned a good piece of work by Marsh. Receiving the ball in the supporters in this, but the married men somehow middle he drove it well and truly home. The Municipals now had a seem to have some difficulty in getting off duty on those little more of the play and it appeared that they were going to equalize, nights. but our defence were playing a great game and frustrated all efforts on their part to score. We had most of the play in the following C.Q.M.S. Pratt and C.Q.M.S. Ravenscroft, both minutes of the first half and had bad luck in not increasing the score " collectors ’’ of note, are competing against each other before half time, which arrived with the board showing 1-0 in our in a varied selection of specimens of wild life; whilst favour. The second half opened with our forwards attacking strongly •and it was not long before their efforts met with success, Tutt again Sgt. Parrett is still busy making gardens. being the scorer. Hind to end play followed, and the opposing team were now a little more in the picture. Their outside right broke away and from his centre a scrimmage occurred in front of our goal-mouth and in the muddle the referee awarded a goal, a very doubtful point. This however, did not affect us and we were soon giving their defence Detachment Sergeants’ Mess. something to worry about. A remarkably fine shot from Coade hit Now that "D” (M.G.) Company are settled in at the underneath of the woodwork, but the referee refused our appeal for a goal; hard luck, indeed. Nearing the end, Marsh, eluding a Sale Barracks (and in view of the fact that there has couple of opponents, sent over a drop Shot which entered the right- been a decided slump in the bar takings at Mingaladon hand corner of the net. This ended the scoring and we retired winners since we left) it has been decided to let us run our own with the score 3-1. Our team as a whole played very well, but our main reason for success must be credited to the forwards, who for once show. A grant of cash and stock was made from the in a way, combined and shot very well. The defence worked hard and parent Mess and we have struck out on our own— rarely allowed the visitors to cross their line; the halves were good, Detachment Sergeants’ Mess, Rangoon,—so if any of but must learn to follow up the forward pass. Of the forwards, special you are round this way and feel at all dry, just jump into mention must be made as to the excellent work of Coade and Tutt, Coade in particular (whose great positional play and shooting were a a rickshaw and say ; " Mess, boy Jaldi! ” and you'll main feature of the match) ; in fact he was the outstanding forward find yourself among us in no time. The strength of on the field. In general it was a very satisfactory match, in that it the Mess is sixteen—Machine Gunners 6, 52nd 1*1. 7, proved we have at last found a strong forward line. A very clean, fast and interesting game in every way. Our team was :— A.F. (1) 2, I.A.S.C. 1,—quite a mixed bag. Goal: Crampton ; Backs : Vasey and Newbury ; Half-Backs : No sooner had we got in, after the C.S.M. and Harlow, Morris and Purkiss; Forwards: Marsh, Tutt, Kemsley, C.Q.M.S. had been out buying pots and pans (not for­ Coade and King, getting the teapot), our worthy President got cracking. On Tuesday, the last day of the month, we journeyed to Insein to play a friendly encounter with our old friends, the Burma Police. Started off with a billiards tourney against the European On a rain-sodden pitch a very good game was witnessed by a good crowd. Police at the Moghul Guard, the police club. The scores Our forwards were soon away and scored a beautiful goal through our may please be read but not commented on. We are inside-left, Tutt. For the most part of the first half we monopolised still trying to convince ourselves that it .was only a the game, but the Police forwards were very dangerous in their break­ aways, The equaliser was obtained by them shortly before half-time. sprat to catch a mackerel. Herewith the scores :— Shortly after the resumption Tutt again found the net from a centre Detachment. Police. by King. After a-further ten minutes or so, our skipper found the net with a good ground shot from about 15 yards out. One of their backs C.S.M. Burt ... 60 Sgt. Carvill...... 100 was being attended to when this, point was registered, however, a C.Q.M.S. Hancock... 46 R.S.M. Heath ... 100 perfectly fair point. The Police attacked and a big gap in our defence Sgt. Gillett...... 68 S/Sgt, Tacon .... 100 on the left, saw their outside man unmarked and from his centre a (Getting monotonous, isn't it ?j goal accrued. I t was in fact a very good point. Nearing the finish our team relaxed, but in one good attack, Coade met a centre from Sgt. Wilson (52nd 1*1.) 52 C/.Sgt. Preston ... 100 Marsh with his head and the ball found its nest. A very good game " Tremlett •’ ... 100 • S/Sgt. Keay ... 41 and full of interesting points throughout, our opponents being a very clean and sporting set of fellows. Our team played very good, the forwards again playing exceptionally well. Heath in the centre, Total ... • 326 Total ... 441 deputising for Kemsley, played quite well in the circumstances, but is not quite fast enough to receive the forward ground pass, from inside But wait, till we play them on our own ground, we’ll men of the calibre of T utt and Coade. Our team on duty was :— lam 'em ! Our white hope, Donald of the fifty tooth, Goal: Crampton ; Backs : Vasey and Newbury ; Half-Backs: Harlow, Morris, Purkiss; Forwards: Marsh, Tutt, Heath, . Coade got stage fright at me last moment. He said he never and King, . did trust a copper, anyway. Our married families W.I*I,. (both of them—Mrs. Hancock and Mrs. Gillett) were also there and saw their husbands being wiped up. On June 10th we held a social in the Mess. Ten Sergeants’ Mess. Corporals of The 52rid were invited and ten of " ours,’* Events of importance seem to be somewhat sub­ . and we spent a very pleasant evening together. Among dued with the constant downpour of rain. the talent present we give full marks to S/Sgt. Reader; "C” Company members, having joined us after a I.A.S.C., who could always earn himself a couple of glorious six months at the Andaman Islands, are looking coppers as a violinist; and, of course, no entertainment fit and well, and reporting well of their sojourn will would be completed without hearing the announcement: be pleased when they are due to return. “ C.S.M.' Burt will now oblige with a—.” You’re all “D” (M.G.) Company reports very satisfactory wrong ! it was a song, see ! progress at Sale Barracks now that they are running " Oscar ” the performing flea was among those their own show, and their optimistic President anti­ present. During the interval the Jazzmaniacs (no need cipates “ floating ” a loan in the near future to the to mention the fact that they are the crankhandles’ H.Q, Mess. We certainly do miss them here in any Band) kept us going with bright music, despite weather case. conditions. Don’t know if anyone has tried playing A dance was held in the Mess on the 12th, when, a mandoline with the wind and rain coming in on unfortunately, we were interrupted by having to turn you ? Rotten. • So I think their performance deserves out a party of 60 of “A" Company to proceed on Detach­ all the more praise. We are all looking forward to the ment at midnight. Sgt. Crump was N.C..O. i/c and 2nd July, when we expect our very good friends of the hoped to have a repetition of his Irish adventures, S.S. Gloucestershire to come and visit us. We still hold but so far he has nothing exciting to report. very pleasant memories of. their last trip out. 282 THE DRAGON

Among the many interesting points about this place There have been so many transfers to and from the Company of is : We have a caterer who is a T.T. (a real'one), and late. Its too much to mention any details, except that we are nearer our normal establishment now than we have been since 1928, but as a C.Q.M.S. whose office used to be an operating theatre, is always the case, a large number are looking forward for the publica­ so it is not entirely his fault that the pay gets cut down. tion of the name of their boat. “B” Company have lost some good sportsmen in the men trans­ I went round the back of the Mess to-day and saw ferred to us prior to their going home, and as an indication of Woollard having a rub down with rifle oil and brickdust. our possible return to our n o r m a l position at the head of the Harris Getting into training I suppose for the arrival of our Shield table,, we have had as many as seven players in the Regimental Football Team. dart board from Bomcutta. When he had finished Pole Jumping, Discus and Javeljn Throwing, arc events to be he came inside and regaled us with two brand new included in the Harris Shield in future so we must give our attention “ shikar yarns.” Jim, you are not one of our strong, to these items whilst in the-Andaman Islands, where it is anticipated silent men ! we shall proceed in November for six months. Reports from “C” Company on the place are very encouraging and Having no more news or notes for this month we we are looking forward to a successful tour. ; . . . will finish our- initial effort by wishing all our readers Sgt. Sinclair is getting a Jazz Band together in anticipation and yrc hope it will commence to function shortly. H a p p y D a y s . - . H,E.

, - Corporals’ Club. . “H.Q.” Wing. I,ikcned unto the man who refused to work any more because Once, again we have very little to report, owing to Parliament could not see its way clear to pass an act making working- the change over of companies ■ at Sale Barracks. “D” days shorter and nights, wherein we rest our weary limbs, longer, the usual correspondent lias jibbed temporarily. So. as adage states, (M.G.) Company went td Sale Barracks and “C” Com­ all men are stop-gaps, it is my bonnden duty to forward a few notes pany arrived at Mingaladon in their place. of the. doings of the Wing in place of G.W.F. There are about a dozen members at Nyaungebin The events of interest worth recording, arc few indeed. Apart from the Battalion Football team fulfilling a couple of its Rangoon doing duty with a detachment of men, guarding the league Fixtures, the Band continuing its well-filled programme, and place from attacks by “ rebels.” . Consequently it most important, the Staff being caught for an occasional guard, things has not- been thought feasible to run any socials until are running rhythmetically in the laid-down Blue Book fashion. things get more settled. We hear rumours that we may have some rain here shortly ; another two inches- will submerge us, barracks and all. Tiny Deverson and Robinson have been in hospital The new Brigadier has arrived and contemplates seeing the with fever and hope to be out very shortly. battalion this week. We hope his opinion of'The Buffs will be as high as that of all the other Brigade Commanders we have served under Owing to shortage of N.C.O’s on duty there has and that the Harris Shield Company keeps up its traditions in that been some strange faces seen on guard lately. Even direction. . • Band N.C.O/s have been “ doing one ”'in the persons Notes these days must necessarily be short because one must keep of Tom Smith and Brickie West. Needless to say a reserve of energy for Tuesday evenings when we all (under the envied ten years’ service) take a trip round all the most watered parts of the “ Basil Stocken ” has been very prominent in that countryside, and pray that we can creep in before the fifteen minutes respect. There is only one person we: wish to see per­ has elapsed after flic first man has got home. form now, and that is " Porky Holness,” the Father la s t week the run developed into a case of “ You take the high of the Club. road, I ’ll take the low, and the shirkers will .find the nearest way to barracks,” but the runs are really enjoyable, although., nobody will O.S. care to admit, they remind one of England by the fact that invariably, every time we start the heavens open up on the word “ go.” We lastly congratulate Ptes. King and Kemslcy on obtaining their “A” Company. places in the Battalion Football team and hope they will make a name for themselves and their-Company. ' “A” Company continues to have its own particular kind of trouble. Things, or rather the thing we have wanted to know for this last Friday, 14th (it would be pay-niglit, when everyone goes out), was the couple of years. When is Yank going home. He must- now realise date of another little outbreak of trouble which necessitated “A” what an awful tiling it' is to have one’s Vocational Course in the middle Company, being warned a t 9 p.m. to find 60 to move at midnight for of one’s service. an indefinite period. Mick. They have been accommodated in a W.D. Bungalow about 90 miles away and tlieir particular duties are to man an armed escort train by night and jailors and the local gaol. The Drums. 2/Lieut. M. G. F. Alexander was in command, but was un­ Hi ! Hi ! Who says a card, sling up (Flag and Empire). Marcel fortunately taken ill and returned and we hope he will soon be out of is our new correspondent. hospital. Congratulations to Pte. Sandbm on winning the C.O.’s Bugle, also The C.Q.-M.S. took oyer the reins of office for a couple of days until Boy Thatcher, the Adjutant’s Bugle. , • ■ the arrival of 2/Lieut. Murphy of “C” Company.who has taken over We are fairly busy at present doing Headquarter Guards, Retreats, charge. 'etc., that we can hardly find time for practice. Conditions of living were not ideal and consequent on a visit on the 23rd by Capt. Essell and the Adjutant, a relief party of 25 under Sgt. - On the 27th May we lead “D” (M.G.) Company to Rangoon on Curliss were sent out on the 28th to relieve Sgt. Crump and 25 who Detachment, and on behalf-of The Drums I would like to thank “D” thought they would rather be in barracks. (M.G.) for refreshments supplied en route and on arrival. We hear a few more will be returning in a few days and hope that Eight of our number leave us for duty on the 22nd instant. We all wish them the best of luck in their new Companies. . Pte. Etheridge “C” Company will find complete reliefs early in July in order that we has rejoined us from “C” Company once again ; wc trust he will soon can carry out some individual training, settle down. We are having our photos taken on the 22nd; We . This item will Come as a welcome change after a solid twelve months have heard that the Rangoon Zoo authorities have asked for a proof at duty. of the same. Well done, Drummy, you’ll be well in the light then. L/Cpl. Steele made an admirable “ Head Warder ” at the Gaol on We would very much like to hear from our friends in the 2nd the occasion of the Company Commander’s visit.' Battalion. Come on A.J.B. Cross-Country Runs still continue each Tuesday and strange to Our notes are short this time owing to Marcel being caught on one recall, on one occasion, under the system of scoring “A” Company leg. So by the left till next month. finished first. This must have been considered very irregular, for no Marcel. scoring has since been carried out, and now late-comers are treated to a little extra run or fatigue. Summers got caught one week, and now he spends liis spare time with a few others of the same “ solidity ’ doing the trained soldiers’ P.T. Table. This shows that the runs have “B” Company. made an impression on some people who have now no desire to be the Owing to the local situation the Burma Rifles left Rangoon on last home. the 4th and we were surprised to hear that a company of the 52nd Rugger is going strong (when we can get sufficient to turn out). Light Infantry were arriving from Maymyo to take their place. “B” Day, Amos, Bicker, Wright, Austen and Cox have got vocational Company of the 52nd duly arrived and- were quartered in Upper Sale courses, as also have Morris, Marsh, Flashman, L/Cpl. Wenham, Crock- Barracks, where they soon settled down despite the lack of punkahs, well, Ratcliffe, O’Moore and Taylor who were recently transferred from electric lights, etc. ‘B’’ Company and are busily preparing for civilian life. Others are We were very pleased to welcome the 52nd and have already played still hoping to get a course and there is plenty of time y et.. a series of games as follows :— _ t THE DRAGON 283

Billiards.—100 up. Won by Buffs by 211 points. Quite a lot of the Company have taken a sudden interest in clock “ If” Company, Buffs. “If” Company, 52nd L .l . golf. Mrs. D’Souza, wife of Major D’Souza, M.C., has very kindly C.S.M. A. Farrow ... 100 B/Cpl. Underhill ...... 63 invited 10 or 11 of the Company up to tea about every other day. Cpl. T. Gambrill ...... 90 Cpl. W eeks...... 100 The members of the Sergeants’ Mess went up on the first occasion B/Cpl. R. Elgie ...... 100 Pte. Jackson ...... 96 and had a very enjoyable time. Everyone who has been, has been very B/Cpl. T. Bawson ...... 100 Cpl. Cox ...... 36 pleased. Pte. A. Gentle ...... 100 B/Cpl. P ris t...... 53 We have had one or two games of Hockey. Our team is improving Pte. N. S tiff...... 100 Pte. Filkington ...... 42 tremendously. The three most important matches were two against Pte. H. Surridge ...... 76 Pte. Holdsworth 100 the Police Battalion and one against The Marine Club. In the first Pte. W. Biddle ...... 100 B/Cpl. Wardle 85 game against the Police we lost 3-2, against the Marine dub,we lost 4-3 and the second game against the Police we won 6-1. On this last Total ... 766 Total 555 occasion Sgt. Tutt went up from centre-half to inside-left. This made a great difference as he was responsible for 4 of our goals. Bieut. F o o t b a l l .—First Match.: “B” Coy. Buffs won 2-0. Goals scored Hoare and Cpl. Taylor got one each. bv Pte. Morris and Pte. Bell. We cannot get much opposition at Football here, as we are about Team: Pte. C. Pitch; Pte. W. Biddle, B/Cpl. E. Hobbs; Pte. the only team here. The Military Hospital now and again turn out T. Murton, Pte. A. Morris, B/Cpl. J. Denham.; B/Cpl. R. Elgie, Pte. a team, and as the result of a bet a game was played on the '20th. F. Bing, Pte. J. Bell, B/Cpl. T. Dawson, Pte. A. Marsh. The bet was that the team from the Detachment which beat H.M.S. Second Match : Draw, 0-0. Same team with the exception of Effingham would not beat Bieut. MacNeil’s team by ten clear goals. Pte. Biddle who was greatly missed. Our team seemed to take things Mr. MacNeil recruited everyone in Port Blair who could play too easy. Football. There was plenty of excitement and interest. We, how­ Ah Inter-Platoon Football Competition was arranged between the ever, could only manage to win 8-0: thus losing the bet. ’ Sgt. Tutt platoons of “B” Company Buffs and “B” Company 52nd. In the scored four of these, Pte. Vasey three and Pte. Mills one. 'We under­ first stage each of the platoons of “B” Company, Buffs were victorious. stand a return game has been arranged. In the second stage Nos. 5 and 8 Platoons fell by the wayside. No. 7 During the month an Inter-Platoon Weapon Training Meeting Platoon were the winners of the final. was arranged. A Cup was presented to the winning Platoon. It “B” Company played the Rest of Battalion at Mingaladon on consisted, of five practices and was carried out on the 100 yards range. Wednesday, May 6th, the result being a draw 1-1. The team played The practices were as follows :—(1) Assault practice, team : Section well and were unlucky in not winning. The forwards played up to their Commander and 2 m en; (2) Rapid, 2 men per Section; (3) Snap­ usual good standard, the halves backing them up well. B/Cpl. Hobbs shooting, 2 men per Section ; (4) Handling Exercise, B-A. team of 4 and Pte. Biddle were as steady as the proverbial rocks at back and if per Platoon ; Practice 5 : Three classification practices from annual anything did get past them it was only to be foiled by the safe hands Revolver Course. There was a tremendous amount of interest shown of our goalkeeper, Pte. Pitch. and everyone was very keen. At the end of the actual firing practices Nos. 10 and 11 Platoons were tieing for firs't place with 11 points each. A l b u h e r a D a y . No. 11 Platoon got first place on the handling B-A. Practice and No.. 10 A Miniature Range Competition was arranged, but owing to the Platoon were second. So No. 11 Platoon won the cup by the narrow inclement weather it was cancelled. An Inter-Platoon Billiards Com­ margin of one point. petition filled the best part of the day, the results being as follows :— The following is the actual score of each Platoon: 5 Platoon ; v. I 7 Platoon \ I nter-Platoon Weapon Training Meeting. 7 Platoon r7 Platoon. No. of Platoon. Prac. 1. Prac. 2. Prac. 3. Prac. 4. Prac. 5. Total. 8 Platoon 1 6 Platoon No. 9 Platoon 92£ 131 42 19 46 330£ 6 Platoon ‘ The 28th drew near and we were busy preparing for our move to No. 10 Platoon 103J 127 60 33 55 378i Port Blair, an account of which will appear in a later copy. We had to transfer ten of the Company to “A” Company before the move ; No. 11 Platoon 117* 123 45 36 61 382} those on Vocational Courses who will be going home before we return to Mingaladon. We wish them everything of the best and hope to hear No. 12 Platoon 90 141 84 31 18 364 well of them. The next trooping season will cost us quite a few stalwarts of the sports field, such men as Bing, Morris, Marsh, Taylor P oints towards W eapon Training Co p. (91) and E/Cpl. Denham, and we shall be lucky if we can replace such No. of Platoon. Prac. 1. Prac. 2. Prac. 3. Prac. 4. Prac. 5. Total. really good talent. Well, it is the usual farewell : “ Our loss is some­ one else’s gain.” No. 9 Platoon 2 3 1 1 2 9 This must comprise the sum total of our notes this month in view of the busy time in front of us. No. 10 Platoon 3 2 3 3 3 14 A.T.F. No. 11 Platoon 4 1 2 4 4 15 No. 12 Platoon 1 4 4 2 1 12 “G” Company. On Albuhera Day some Aquatic Sports were held in the covered-in At last the rains have arrived and banished the fear of shortage of Swimming Baths at the Settlement Club. We had some great fun. water. Not only that, but it has cooled us down considerably. Every­ The Inter-Platoon Relay Race was won by No. 9 Platoon with No. X1 thing previously was dried up and brown. There were practically no Platoon second. The Diving was won by B/Cpl. Hayman with Pte. leaves on the trees, but now everything is delightfully green. It seems Holmes second. The Greasy Pole caused heaps of merriment. A rather a pity that we have to leave here soon. Many of the Company Rupee was given to anyone who could get to the other end: B/Cpl. would be content to remain here for another six months. On the other Sparks was the only one to manage it. Pte. Mansfield won the open hand there are quite a few who will be pleased to get away. race one length of the Baths any stroke. There was diving for hidden During the month the Annual Revolver Course has been fired, treasure, but I suppose the tit-bit of the meeting was the Officers ». otherwise we have had the normal routine. Although the rain has in Sergeants’ Relay Race. The Officers’ team w as:—Bieut. D’Arcy many cases spoilt outdoor sport, there has been a lot of social activity. Symonds, Bieut. N. E- Hoare, 2/Bieut. R. J. Murphy. The Sergeants’ There have been two or three Dances during the month, one of team was :—C.S.M. Holman, Sgt. Mullen and Sgt. West. At the them on Albuhera Day being a Fancy Dress Dance. This particular end of the first lap the Sergeants were in the lead. At the end of the dance was extremely successful and some very pretty and original second lap everything was level, by Mr. Murphy who proved too good dresses were in evidence. The first prize (ladies), went to airs. D’Souza for Sgt. West and won by about 5 yards. We had much difficulty at as an Eastern I,ady, and the first prize (Gents.) to Pte. Wilson, also as the end of the meeting in persuading the men to leave the water, they an Eastern Dancing Girl. Three other prizes were won by Cpl. Woolf enjoyed it so much. as a Dutch Girl, Mr. Boomgardt as an old Bady, and B/Cpl. Maynard as Q.E.D. the Deserted Husband caused a great deal of laughter. The Sergeants’ Mess held a social during the month to which the Officers and the Corporals were invited. There are only six members of the Sergeants’ Mess, but it was an extraordinarily good show. A Dart Match took place in which the Sergeants were the winners by “ D ” (M.G.) Company. a very narrow margin. The Company Jazz Band was in attendance, assisted by Mrs. Holman at the piano. Dancing took place on the I t is very often said that when there isn’t much to write about one verandah and generally speaking, it was a very merry night. usually reverts to that worn-out subject “ The Weather.” However, The Corporals gave a return a week or so afterwards which was a these notes have got to be started somehow or other and the effect veritable bachelors’ night. Songs and yarns were exchanged and it that weather has on our life in Rangoon makes me place this subject struck us that some of the members have undoubtedly missed their first for our next edition of The Dragon. vocation, they should write books. I t is still in doubt as to who did Bike every other Company in the battalion we have our pessimists really tell the best one. Before leaving these notes we should like to and optimists and it doesn’t seem to be much good telling the former thank the originator of “ Tips to Dart Throwers,” for his valuable that this time of the year is known as Monsoon time, they seem to think advice circulated lately. It has worked wonders, except for “ Bricky.” that just because they have arranged a game of football or want to Some players even now still require 400 when the other player is out. go out that the rain has gathered over Rangoon specially to stop them. Still more of this later. Whatever the weather is like it will not be improved by grumbling. 284 THE DRAGON 2nd Battalion. uring the last few Another real old-timer to be seen on the ground weeks—in between was Mr. John Dean, of Canterbury. He, hecticD days of soldiering— in his day, was no mean cricketer, and we have been caught up I can remember his knocking up a rattling in something of a social good fifty on the St. Lawrence Ground more whirl, some of which was than ten years ago when he had even then mentioned in last month’s left the sixtieth mile-stone well astern.. He notes. told me that at last he has disposed of his When the Army met gear and given up cricket, though from his Oxford University on the active bearing I should not be surprised to Folkestone Ground, we were see him knocking the bowling about again. afforded a good opportunity As announced in last month’s number, of watching some really one evening the two teams were the guests good cricket, though it was of the Officers’ Mess, when thirty-seven sat surprising how few of the down to dinner. Although we did our best townsfolk turned out. to help the Army (as is duty bound), the Amongst those in the stand I noticed General Oxford boys stuck strictly to their training Sir Charles Harington, looking as fit as a fiddle rules and the next day the Nawab of Pataudi and not a day older—in spite of several years’ scored 186. service on the North-West Frontier—than when the 1st Battalion served under him in On the following Wednesday and Saturday Constantinople some ten years ago. As every­ the Mess was “ At Home ” on the ground for body knows, Sir Charles is now Commander-in- the Kent v. Warwickshire and Kent v. York­ Chief at Aldershot. Those in this battalion shire matches. On these occasions many who were fortunate enough to have served old friends foregathered in our tent and under him will regret that we are not still enclosure, and on the first day we were pleased in Aldershot to repeat the happy experience. *I to see our Colonel (General Sir A. Lynden- Bell), whose unflagging energy takes him to every Buff gathering. 1st Battalion—continued from page 283. Although on each occasion Kent suffered Of course the majority of fellows don’t mind the rain a bit, in fact they seem to enjoy it especially when playing football. Several games have a sound defeat, it was delightful to see our old been played during our first three weeks here and according to reports favourites. Although A. P. Chapman dis­ we shall have a jolly good team when the Harris Shield starts. As everybody knows, this is just the time of the year to play Rugby, and appointed with his bat (we were all looking Pecker should, without a doubt, be able to pick out a good Fifteen to represent the Company. It is rather a pity that this sport is not forward to some good slogging), he made up practised more in the Army. I venture to suggest that if those men for it in the field. His lightning-like legerd­ who do know something about the game were to get together and give short lectures of about fifteen minutes’ duration to others who are emain was pure joy to watch, and his interested, every Company in the Battalion 'would be able to produce light-hearted jugglery always gets a laugh. a Rugger Team, and in time this sport might even be included in the list of games for the Harris Shield. However, the Gunners are setting Little Freeman was the star performer, and the example and have already fixed a match with the Gymkhana, to be played off in a few days’ time. to see the way he tied up expert batsmen till Strange and wonderful are some of the questions, answers and they knocked up catches like girls raised arguments one hears in the barrack room now that the young hands have started their training. One future No. 1 after having had a lecture many a chuckle from the spectators. on the use of the Hand-Wheel, wanted to know what difference there was in “ Up Three O Minutes ” and “ Up Half-an-Hour.” I under stand the instructor is still explaining. There are numerous others The Saturday, of course, was mostly devoted I am making a note of and hope to be abie to include them in next to Sutcliffe, who made his 230 so gracefully. month's Dragon. One great difficulty it seems impossible to over­ come is the amount of duty the Company has to do in Rangoon, but A bat in the hands of such a wizard makes although this interferes a great deal with the training of about seventy cricket appear absurdly cosy until one is almost young hands, they are progressing very satisfactory according to reports. tempted to make a “ come-back ” for the The habit of quite a number of men in the Company buying mouth organs lias increased so much that shortly I hope to be able to write company side ! about them as a Gunners’ Mouth Organ Band, which would be a very unusual thing in the battalion. To make our stay in Rangoon more Cricket has loomed larger in the sporting enjoyable, the Company Commander and C.S.M. Burt have arranged to hold dances in the Detachment Gymnasium once a week, the music calendar of the battalion lately. Our cricket being provided by the Company Dance Band. Our first and second correspondent is handier with his bat than with dances have proved a great success and I understand everybody is looking forward to our next' one which I hear will be run as a Cabaret his pen, but anyone who cares to wade through Dance. Our intention when we first came to' Rangoon was to get the the long list of results (if the Editor publishes Company Concert Party on the go, but up to the present this has been them all) will see exactly what the team has practically impossible.” However, we hope that they will be able to produce a similar show to the last one, before next month’s notes have been doing. to go to print. P.F.P. THE DRAGON 285

On Thursday and Friday, July 16th and (2) “M.G.” Coy.: L/Cpl. Roser, 28 ft. 8 ins., Pte. 17th, we took on the Flamingoes (a Dutch Jordan, 27 ft. 11 ins., Pte. Burden, 26 ft. 4 ins., Pte. team) and on Thursday entertained them to Stead, 25 ft. 7 ins., Total, 108 ft. 8 ins. ; (3) “24” Coy. : Bdms. Nelthorpe, 33 ft. 4 ins., Bdms. Catt, dinner in the Mess, where they also spent the 28 ft., Pte. Corlce, 23 ft. 7 ins., Bdms. Pugh, 22 ft. 7 ins.. night, occupying, in some cases, the beds Total, 107 ft. 6 ins. vacated by sterner soldiers out on trek. Long J ump.—The standard of this event was about up to our average, although only four competitors On July 11th the battalion sports were cleared over 17 ft. Many were round about the 16 ft. held, when “C” Company again came out mark. Lack of practice was visible in that many on top, for the fifth consecutive time. This failed to strike the board correctly, causing many " no jumps.” Pte. Vincent cleared 19 ft. 5 ins., Pte. splendid result is due to the zeal and expert Marsden, 18 ft. Ilf ins., Pte. Garrett, 17 ft. 7 ins and knowledge of C.S.M. Ongley. Such success were the best jumps recorded. cannot be allowed to go unrewarded, so I have Result: (1) “13” Coy.: 19 ft. 5 ins.; 17 ft. 0J detailed him to write up the notes on the ins.; 16 ft. 10 ins.; 14 ft. 8£ ins.; Total, 67 ft. I l f iris. (2) “B” Coy. : 18 ft. I l f ins. ; 16 ft. lOf day’s events. No one can do it better ! 16 ft. 2f ins.; 15 ft. 9£ ins. Total, 67 ft. lOf ins. [We regret that lack of space has made it (3) “C” Coy. : 17 ft. 7 ins. ; 16 ft. 5£ ins. ; 16 ft. 4£ impossible to publish the very fu ll account ins. ; 16 ft. 21 ins. Total, 66 ft. 7% ins. These four field events were heid during the morn­ received from C.S.M. Ongley, we are very grate­ ing, so at this hour of the day “M.G.” Company’s flag fu l to him.—-Editor.'] was at the top of the mast, with 13 points. “C,” “13,” “24” Companies all tied next with 12 points, so there really was not much in it although the “ Gunners ” were beginning to wear that 100% air. Perhaps they Battalion Sports, 1931. were forgetting that "C” were -in the field. “B” Company were next with 8 points, “A” supporting the During past years the battalion has held both team issue with 3 points. and individual events ; this year only team events The first event of the afternoon was the 400 yards were held. It is understood that expenses played a relay ; four competitors run 100 yards straight up and large part in this decision. down. Another very even event and well-contested, As to the general standard produced in the team the standard being quite good ; practice in starting events this year, I cannot see there was anything out­ as the man passes the line is needed. standing, except 2/Lieut. K. W. Craddock's very fine “ 13” Company fielded a strong team for this event 440 yards, L/Cpl. Hurley’s excellent three miles and and won in 44g secs. ; “24” Company were a good L/Sgt. Trinkwon’s 880 yards and one mile. One will second. never get good results unless men are well trained. Result: (1) “13” Coy.; (2) “24” Coy.; (3) “C” Just to appear a few nights before the meeting is far Coy. - • worse than useless; it is a couple of months’ steady The next event was the three miles team race. training that is wanted. There were some very distressful looking individuals This year an extra event was added for the moving round the track in this race. I know some championship events, namely the “ Discus." good men were not competing here, such as Pte. During the meeting company flags are flown in order Frankham (sprained ankle), Sgt. Bell (sick) and a few of merit. others. Lack of training was the chief cause. L/Cpl. H igh Jump.— Result: (1) “M.G." Coy. : Pte. Hurley ran a very fine race. It was good to see Divers Jordan, 4 ft. 11 ins, Pte. Buxton, 7 ft. 7J ins., L/Cpl. having a go this year. Having trained, he was a good Austin, 4 ft. 6J ins., L/Cpl. Milne, 4 ft. 5^ ins. Total, second. L/Cpl. Fox-also ran a good race. 1 18 ft. 6£ ins. ; (2) “C” Coy. : Pte. Belson, 4 ft. Result: (1) “C” Coy., 27 p ts .; (2) “M.G.” Coy., ins., L/Cpl. Marsh, 4 ft. 1 \ ins., Pte. Moore, 4 ft. 6£ ins., 47 pts. ; (3) “B” Qpy., 71 pts. Pte. McKay, 4 ft. 5£ ins.. Total, 18 ft. 3 ins. (In 1930 480 Yards H urdles R elay.—Result: (1) “ B” “C” Coy. team were second with 19 ft. 6 ins.) ; (3) Coy. ; (2) “M.G.” Coy. ; (3) “C” Coy. “B” Coy. ; (4) 18 ft. ; (6) “A" Coy., 17 ft. 11 ins. The Two Mile R elay came next. Each com­ Total: 18 ft. 2£ ins. petitor runs 880 yards. “C” Company fielded a strong Bdms. Catt had the second highest jump with 4 ft. team and were able to win with ease. 10 ins., Pte. Cox, “A” Coy. third with 4 ft.'8$ ins. Result: (1) “C” Coy. ; (2) “24” Coy. ; (3) ‘?B” Discus.—For this event only two competitors Coy, made up the team. Months of practice are required 880 Y a r d s R e l a y .—Another very good event. before one can hope to do well. Some very strong teams were on view here. The Result: (1) “24” Coy. : Bdms. Nelthorpe, 84 ft. Adjutant, competing fdr “13" Company fell on the 8 ins., Bdms. Rayment, 82 ft.. Total, 166 ft. 8 ins. ; track losing a few yards. “M.G.” Company set up (2) “M.G.” Coy. : Lieut. F. W. B. Parry, 80 ft., L/Cpl. a good lead throughout and won rather easily. Roser, 75 ft. 10 ins.. Total, 155 ft. 10 ins.; (3) “C” Result: (1) “M.G.” Coy.; (2) “C” Coy.,; (3) Coy. : Sgt. Smith, 80 ft. 5 ins., Pte. Whiskin, 71 ft. 1 in.. “ 13” Coy. Total, 151 ft. 6 ins. One Mile Team R ace.—L/Sgt. Trinkwon and L/Cpl. P utting the Shot.—This appears to be one of the Hurley both ran very well indeed. Both had a hard events where there is a general improvement in the race an hour earlier. The time of 4 mins. 46 secs, was standard. Competitors like Pte. Sparks, Bdms. quite good. L/Cpl. O’Connor also ran very well to Nelthorpe, Sgt. Smith, L/Cpl. Roser and Bdms. Catt finish 3rd. Pte. Divers and S. Burgess were 4th and could do very well if only they devoted the time to it. 5th respectively. “13” Company, with the aid of Pte. Sparkes, won Now perhaps I can be excused for being personal, the event, “M.G.” Company being second. but when the writer (C.S.M. Ongley) can come in sixth Result: (1) “ 13” Coy.: Pte. Sparkes, 35 ft. 10 it really does not show much for all our latest arrivals. ins., Pte. Girling, 26 ft. 11 ins., Pte. Burrows, 24 ft. Surely after over 18 years on the track it is nearly time 8 ins., Cpl. Griggs, 24 ft. 3 ins., Total, 111 ft. 8 ins. ; some of the younger ones found a place in front. 286 THE DRAGON

Result: (1) "C” Coy., 12 pts. ; (2) '‘13” Coy., 2nd Battalion The Buffs v. 1st battalion The Manchester 31 pts. ; (3) “24" Coy., 53 pts. R egim ent. One MieE REEAY.—This being the last champion­ Played on 30th June. R esult: Won by 7 wickets. ship event, was expected to be a good race. Perhaps lsi Battalion The Manchester Regiment. this was spoiled by Pte. Redman of "C” Company Capt. Britlorious, b Nelthorpe...... 11 having a bad ankle which caused him to lose much Eieut. Chlsdetti, c Foster, b Hammond...... 16 distance; taking over second he went back to a very Major Clowes, b Hammond...... 0 Pte. Brindle, c Hammond, b Sparkes...... 17 bad fourth place. Lieut. Craddock ran a glorious race Major Parminter, c Sparkes, b Nelthorpe...... 3 to bring "C” Company up to third place, just failing to Pte. Whatmor, c Harwood, b Hammond...... '...... 29 get second. In the meantime, "M.G.” Company had Eieut.-Colonel Bostock, b Connolly...... 13 been able to have the race to themselves. Except Pte. Tolhurst, st Moore, b Hammond...... 0 Pte. Eockwood, not out...... 13 for the accident, the result might have been different. Close Brook, b Hammond...... 0 Time of winners : 3 mins. 43 secs. Eieut. Hatt, b Connolly...... 6 Result: (1) “M.G.” Coy.; (2) “ 13” Coy.; (3) Extras...... 9 “C” Coy. Position of Flags : “C” Coy., 40 p ts.; "M.G.” Total...... '...... -104 Coy., 36 pts. ; "13” Coy., 32 pts. ; “24” Coy., 28 2nd Battalion The Buffs. p ts.; "B” Coy., 22 pts. ; “A” Coy,, pts. Eieut. Connolly, not out...... 64 “C” Company were once again successful in gaining Bandmaster Foster, b Bostock...... 7 Sgt. Jackman, c Chisdetti, b Bostock...... 0 3 points towards the Sports Shield, “M.G.” Coy., 2 2/EieiA. Harwood, c Brooks, b Bostock...... 0 points; “13” Coy., 1 point. This makes seven Sgt. Moore, not-or' 35 successive years that/'C" Company has won the Athletic Bdm. Nelthorpe Sports. 2/Eieut. Craddock Bdmn. Rayment The Ladies’ race was won by Mrs. Millar, Mrs. Pte. Sparkes \ Did not bat. Wright being second and Mrs. C. Smith third. Pte. Hammond The Boys’ race was won by Jack Bryan, Bobby Bdmn. Catt Baker being second with Allen Ricketts third. Extras...... 1 The Girls’ race resulted in a win for Kathleen Smith, Total. 109 Sylvia Carvell being second. The Sergeants’ 220 yards Handicap was won by inches by L/Sgt. Trinkwon from C.S.M. Ongley. Other 2nd Battalion The B u ffs v. A. R. Ram sey’s XI. prizes were obtained by holders of lucky cards. Played on July 3rd. Result: Won by 100 runs. The Corporals’ 220 yards resulted in a win for L/Cpl. A. R. Ramsey's X I. Spence, L/Cpl. E. Taylor being second and L/Cpl. Gould, b Foster...... 29 Austin third. L/Cpl. Spence did very well indeed to Jones, c Connolly, b Hammond...... 10 get so fit so soon after his recent illness. Braddon, c Williams, b Neltliorpe...... 24 R. Uniack, b Foster...... 5 The AH Ranks Relay was won by the Officers, Baucher, st Moore, b Kenward...... 18 although I do not know how, for the person responsible Greenwood, c Harwood, b Connolly...... 25 must have been on the other ranks’ side by the size of Allen, b Connolly...... 2 Ramsey, lbw, b Connolly...... 5 the loads the Officers carried. Mullens, b Connolly...... 5 Finally, our thanks are due to all the Officials for Allen, b Foster...... :...... 8 the work done to make the meeting a success. The Robertson, not out...... 7 organisation of the meeting was certainly a success. ' Extras...... ;...... 6 Also to the one and only Pte. Woods for the efficient way Total...... '...... 144 he had prepared the ground. A.V.O. 2nd Battalion The Buffs. 2/Eieut. Kenward, b Ramsey...... 5 Bd.-Mr. Foster, c Braddon, b Ramsey...... 9 Cricket. 2/Et- Harwood, b Ramsey...... 51 Eieut. Williams, c Greenwood, b Ramsey...... 4 2nd Battalion The Buffs v. B ev e rley . Eieut. Connolly, b Jones...... 62 Played on June 25th. R esult: Eost by] 38 runs. Sgt. Moore, c Ramsey, b Braddon...... 26 Beverley. Sgt. Jackman, b Jones...... 9 C. Goldsack, c Watts, b Hammond...... 10 Bdm. Nelthorpe, c Mullins, b Uniack...... 48 R. Gillett, c Connolly, b Tuff...... 3 2/Eieut. Craddock, b Jones...... 4 W. Hills, c Neltliorpe, b Tuff...... 0 Pte. Hammond, not out...... 15 W. Gray, c and b Hammond...... 20 Major Morgan, b Robertson...... 0 J. Parker, c Hammond, b Sparkes...... 9 Extras...... 17 J. D. Cripps, c and b Foster...... 17 N. Sandy, c Foster, b Hammond...... 24 Total...... 250 E- Kemp, c Fox, b Tuff...... 1...... 21 C. Harris, st Connolly, b Hammond...... 35 K. Baddock, b Hammond...... 2 • C. Russell, not out...... 1 2nd Battalion The Buffs v. S t. E aw ren ce C.C. Extras...... 30 Played on 4th July. Result: Eost by 160 runs. Total...... 172 St, Lawrence C.C. Major Honeyball, c Hammond, b Tuff...... 28 2nd Battalion The Buffs. T. Kennedy, b Sparks.,...... 12 Eieut. Connolly, c Hills, b Sandy...... 10 Fagg, c Sparks, b Tuff...... 10 Bandmaster Foster, b Sandy.,...... 58 Phillips, c Morgan, b Nelthorpe...... 26 Bdmn. Nelthorpe, b Sandy...... 10 Major Blaxland, c Nelthorpe, b Kenward...... 114 Pte. Sparkes, st Gilletti, b Sandy...... 4 Balding, b Kenward...... 44 2/Eieut. Tuff, lbw, b Sandy...... ;...... 0 Capt. Cremer, c Morgan, b Kenward...... 0 Sat. Watts, c Cripps, b Sandy...... 6 Jones, b Nelthorpe...... 10 2/Eieut. Craddock, st Gilletti, b Sandy...... 11 Col. Ffrench Blake, b Kenward...... 1 C.Q.M.S. Burville, run out..'...... 0 Capt. Wall, c and b Nelthorpe...... 0 Pte. Hammond, c Baddock, b Russell...... 0 Capt. Borthwick, not out...... 6 Bdmn. Catt, b Baddock...... 21 Extras...... 19 E/Cpl. Fox, not out...... 12 Extras...... 4 Total...... 270 Total...... 136 THE DRAGON * 287

2nd Battalion The Buffs. clock was presented to Sgt. " Chalky ” Wright, a watch Major Morgan, c Fagg, b Phillips...... 0 Bieut. Kenward, b Phillips...... 0 and chain, also inscribed, to Sgt. “ Ed'ard ” Goodwin, Bieut. Harwood, c Jones, b Phillips...... 7 and a dress ring to Mrs. Goodwin. 2/Bieut. Tuff, b Jones...... 45 The evening afterwards turned out to be a red- 2/Bieut. Craddock, b Phillips...... 1 13dm, Neltliorpe, c Blaxland, b Jones...... 28 letter ” one for “ Chalky ” and I am not sure if he Sgt. Watts, c Cremer, b Phillips...... 5 carried the clock home or if he took the place of the Sgt. Jackman, not out...... 15 clock. Pte. Sparks, b Jones...... 0 " Ed'ard,” having the cubicle capacity to stick it Pte. Hammond, b Jones...... 2 B/Cpl. Vincent, b Jones...... 1 out, visited all the " Browns,” and rumour has it that Extras...... 6 he scored a century on " Browns,” at least, the caterer was a hundred down next morning. Total...... ll.o The “ Ladies ” turned up in force and the ” Sheiks ” were in their element; I am afraid we shall have to 2nd Battai.ion The Buffs v. Dover C.C. start a class for " Gents ” beginners. Dancing continued Played on 8th July. R esult: Drawn. until about 2 a.m., everybody going home extremely 2nd Battalion The Buffs. 2/Bieut. Walker, c Dale, b.Bartlett...,...... 36 y. 2/Bieut. Kenward, lbw, b Jewell...... 25 he day following everybody attended the Sgt. Watts, c Took, b Baker...... 49 Battalion Sports’ Meeting and some fine running Was Sgt. Jackman, b Jewell...... 3 Bieut. Reeves, b Baker...... 8 witnessed, not forgetting of course, the Sergeants' 2/Bieut. R. Hill, b Farrow...... 6 220 yards race. This event was won by L/Sgt. Trink- 2/Bieut. Craddock, run out...... 27 won, the sealed prizes going to Sgt. Buxton (1st), L/Sgt. Pte. Sparkes, c Took, b Baker...... 4 Pte. Edwards, b Baker...... 21 Jackman (2nd), Sgt. Glover (3rd)._ I feel I cannot Pte. Boorman, not out...... 0 pass this race over without reporting that R.Q.M.S. E/Cpl. Fox, did not bat. Ricketts gave us a wonderful exhibition of a graceful Extras.... !...... 22 fall (Pavlova Fashion). Total...... 201 The “ Old-Uns,” as usual, got a start according to the number of hairs on their chest. Sorry ! I meant Dover Cricket Club. number of years away from work, but age will tell, Dr. Fisher, c Reeves, b Walker...... •...... 4. Greenstreet, run out...... 22 and tea, wads and sandwiches will always beat the Capt. Baker, c Reeves, b Sparkes...... 25 pint glass on the track. Took, not out...... 68 The Mess was w.ell represented in the " Medley Race.” Enson, b Sparkes...... 1 The C.O., with a basket of raspberries, a label with Enson, c Hill, b Sparkes...... 25 Farrow, not out...... 8 indication of same on and a well-rolled scheme, started Gale the ball rolling and was passed on the track by the Jewell. R. S.M. carrying all the insignia of his office, i.e., (1) Bartlett I Did not bat. V. Enson Pace Stick, (2) Metranone; (3) Chairs, Windsor, one. Extras...... 10 The organizer of this race evidently let our " No. 1 ” off lightly as his duty rosters, files and board remained Total...... in 160 his office. The Pioneer Sergeant was observed staggering along with a tool-bag containing several items, including an anvil, being followed by the Sergeants’ Mess. Transport Staff fondly embracing Saddlery, Officers, Whilst at our last station, Aldershot, we heard many Sets (1). Next was observed the "Q” Branch dashing rumours regarding our present station, the main one down the track with boxes, coal, 5-bushel (1) ; Mops, being to the effect that we were due to come for a rest Common (1); Brooms, Sweeping,. Long (1), etc. cure. As often, rumours are false, as at present we are Not being content with tapping it all day, our O.R. deep in battalion and brigade schemes and counting Sergeant took his typewriter on the run, wondering if blisters has caused the dream of having a C.O. playing it was heavier than the form, (not A.F.) that the permanent golf, the Adjutant abroad, the R.S.M. Adjutant was harnessed to. “ Doughy ” Baker, being on permanent leave; ahd we by the seaside all day, S. I.M., carried all his surplus stores with him, and if to fade away. Never mind, for all that, owing to the " Narchy ” Field hadn’t stopped to ring up we might enterprise of the R.S.M. in claim-jumping a section of have won. Not to be outdone, the O.C. Emma-Gee the Battalion Sports Ground, the untiring ? efforts of Company dashed forward with several Boxes, Belt, 303, the “ Mumpy Squad ” with rake and mower, the dash­ M.G., and finally two wheeled vehicles in the form of ing tennis experts can now bash and slash to their hearts dummy A/T Guns flew along the track, to the public content. danger and to the accompaniment of loud cheers from The Ladies, too, are entering into the spirit of it, the spectators. and what with deck chairs, etc., we fair bid to outdo The Officers were announced as having won. Wimbledon. We hope to produce an Army Champion “ W a n g b E.” in the near future. Up to the present our young hope­ Although I have already mentioned that Sgts. fuls have only succeeded in wearing off the grass. Goodwin and Wright are on the verge of leaving us, So when the " close season ” arrives we shall have to I feel I cannot just leave it at that. Goodwin, who plough the fields and scatter and fetch the “ Verdant has acted as Officers’ Mess Caterer for a good number Pastures ” up anew, ready for next summer. of years will be sadly missed in the jar-school at On Friday, July 10th a " Flannel Dance ” was held Snooker, but we have the consolation of knowing he in the Drill Hall instead of in the Mess. About 150 isn’t far away, in fact he has gone to The Depot to were present, everybody enjoyed themselves and the look after the interests of the officers there. The show was voted tip-top. Music was provided by our following address will find him :—c/o Depot The Buffs, old friends, the " Crochet Crackers,” they being as good Canterbury, as ever, and the intervals, etc., were filled in by using We shall all miss the familiar figure of " Chalky ” our latest and valuable asset, the Radio Gramaphone. trekking across the green in his working overalls. He Previous to the commencement of the dance, the has completed a local vocational course in the Pioneers’ R.S.M., on behalf of the members of the Mess, made Shop under the eagle eye of “ Chips.” Cabinets and presentations to two of our members who are very shortly chairs with wrigley legs were his speciality, so he will leaving for “ Civvy ” life. A suitably-inscribed mantel be able to fix up the homestead at market prices. 288 THE DRAGON

He is going to take up the occupation of gardener to sobs, said : " My Platoon Sergeant was i/c Markers ; he Capt. Coote and his address will be " The Cottage,” let me down but look me over and dekko my left sleeve.” Redbrooke Wood, Hythe. After the speeches the R.S.M. duly awarded the usual C.Q.M.S. (Charlie) Smith is nearing the " final ” number of “ show cleans ” and the President is watch­ stage and is getting his hand in under " Ginger ” ing him very closely now. Hollands, our Master Shoemaker. Charlie is at present in the brad and heelball stage, but we hope in a few weeks’ time to find a new poky-die pot on the centre table. “A” Company. We have had a telephone installed in the Mess and Company Notes will, I ain afraid, be rather short. Firstly, there local calls are abundant. The reasons are varied, has been very little of any interest happening and secondly, I am far from what one would call a good writer. but “ All alone on the telephone,” is one good reason In opening, I must congratulate Cpl. Richardson in getting third for the majority of entries in the Caterer's “ Tog.” place in the Battalion Bayonet Fighting Competition. This is a good We offer our heartiest congratulations to C.S.M. and show and I wish more would take the interest in all sport that Cpl. Richardson docs. Mrs. Fawcett on the birth of a daughter, at Shomcliffe Battalion Sports Day was a sorry day for the Company. As on July 15th. “ Night Operations ” will soon will he described in other parts of The Dragon, only team events took commence and our “ mechanized ” C.S.M. will have to place. I am not grumbling or saying that our teams did not try, find extra accommodation on the " Family Bus.” but they did not manage to .obtain many points and consequently we took last place. Still, betterMuck next year when we hope to do better. IS IT TRUE. Several new faces have appeared in the Company, a draft having That our deep-sea fishermen are causing unnecessary joined us from The Depot. We accord them a very hearty welcome alarm among the wives, and that, for a cod, Arthur and hope they, like their new sphere of life. We must congratulate Pte. and Mrs. Thirst in having an addition caught one ? to the family in a baby daughter. Although the Company do not, That Nobby has been turned out to graze ? as yet, know Pte. Thirst he being still attached to The Depot, I am sure That A/T guns (dummy) might become good we wish him all the best. Sergeants' Mess containers, on Manoeuvres ? The three days’ Company March, 16tli, 17th and 18th, that we have just completed, was, I am sure, enjoyed by all the Company. That scramble for the sealed envelopes on Sports Although we were training, the schemes were so well thought out that Day made our Treasurer think of some that are not they were interesting for all ranks. On our second day we were Convoy scrambled for ? escort to the Pay of the Canterbury Garrison through a half-civilized and rebellious country. It was a hard and tiring day as all had to be That the " Rapid ” movements of our “ Sedate” on the alert from 7.15 a.m. when we pulled out from Harrihge Court Departments during the Medley Race were out of until 5.30 p.m. when we arrived at Denton. The convoy was ambushed order in accordance with the rules of " Trade Union on the way, hut I am pleased to say that the copper placed in the limber by our Company Commander to represent the Garrison’s Pay, was not Hours and Efforts.” ? captured. Our second night out proved to be rather a damp one, T ouchstone. but owing to the kindness of our Captain, a big percentage of the Company were under cover; the others who had to bivouac did not mind as there was a nice country public house close handy, so one could get wet inside as well as out. We arrived in'Barracks about 1 p.m. Corporals’ Room. and except for a few sore feet on account of wet boots nobody was any the worse for their three days’ marching. I have heard that certain The month has been a very busy one as we have members of the Company were hoping it would last for a week. numerous N.C.O.'s punching up for promotion and This, I am afraid, constitutes all my notes for July so will close with just one query : How does our C.S.M. like being a Daddy ? and did training for sports to be considered as well. the Sergeants sing to him the first night on the march “ I ’m a real Cpl. Sirett rejoined from the School of Education Daddy, now ” ? with a “D.” We congratulate him for this very I n k P ot. splendid effort. T/Cpl. Parker, a possible candidate for the A.E.C., also returned with a "Q.l.” We are pleased to record that T/Cpl. Garratt of The Drums “B” Company. passed for his Second Class Certificate in the last exam, Since our last notes we have received two drafts from the Depot, and the extra ackers are already flowing in. the first one bringing with it, Cpl. Stone, a N.C.O. well-known by the older men of the Company and the second draft brought with it Cpl. During the month some fourteen fresh faces have Chipp-Smith, another old hand of the Company. To both drafts and been admitted members of the Corporals’ Room. We N.C.O.’s we extend a hearty welcome and hope their stay in the can offer no further advice than stick to the pamphlet Company will be a long one. The outstanding event of the last three months is the Company that is issued by the R.S.M. on appointment. Sports which were held on the 25th June. The results were very In the next item, the Annual Sports, T/Cpl. Taylor pleasing and Number 7 Platoon are to be congratulated on winning of “B” Company ran a very close second to T/Cpl. the Company Shield. Below I give the results of some of the most Spence for the Paget 220 yards Running Cup. In this important events. Three Miles.—(1) Pte. Frankham ; (2) Pte. Hayde. race T/Cpl. Hodgson was to be seen creeping round the 440 Yards.—(1) Pte. Marsden; (2) E/Cpl. Taylor. course similar to the tortoise in the fable, but Spence 880 Yards.—(1) E/Cpl. Turmaine ; (2) Sgt. Bell. never looked round. The race finished in a “ Bumping One Mile.—(1) Pte. Hayde ; (2) Sgt. Bell. 100 Y a r d s .—(1) Cpl. Gowen; (2) Pte. Marsden. Melee ” for the lucky envelope. Hodgson received his H igh Jump.—(1) E/Cpl. Turmaine; (2) Pte. Duffield. and the note inside said : “ Hard luck, youngster, 220 Y a r d s .—(1) Cpl. Gowen ; (2) Pte. Marsden. try next year.'/ He hasn’t got over the blow yet. P utting t h e Shot.— (1) Cpl.' Gowen; (2) E/Cpl. Taylor. We would like to congratulate "C” Company on Hurdles.—(1) Cpl. Gowen ; (2) E/Cpl. Butler. One Mile Relay.—(1) No. 8 Platoon ; (2) No. 6 Platoon.. again winning the Championship despite, the fact that Tug-of-War.—(1) No. 7 Platoon ; (2) No. 8 Platoon. • others have tried ever so hard to take the honour from Consolation.—(1) Pte. Finch ; (2) Pte. Feldman. them. Children’s.—(1) Master I.ewry ; (2) Miss Eewry. Dong J u m p .—(1) Pte. Marsden; (2) E/Cpl. Taylor. In the proposition book Monty Junior signified his Discus.— (1) Cpl. Gowen; (2) Pte. Marsden.: wish for a Tennis Court. The C.O., we are pleased to The best Athlete in Class A (N.C.O. or man with more than two say, has sanctioned this and we take this opportunity years’ service): Pte; Marsden. The best athlete in Class B (N.C.O. or man with less than two years’ of thanking him. So on the 18th and 19th you may service) : Pte. Hayde. It is interesting to note that the best man in see some of us attired in Flannels wielding “ tennis Class B was somewhat of a dark horse, if he continues as he has started rackets G.S ,” but just a word of advice : don’t take he will be a very useful man to the Company. Next came the most important event of the year, namely the them on the Teas and use them as supporting sticks. Battalion Sports. I am sorry to say that the results in these were At the Monthly Mess Meeting the R.S.M, presented rather disappointing. Out of a total of six companies competing “B” the Shooting Spoons. Cpl. Tee, the winner of the Company were 5th. After last year’s performance; when they took Silver Spoon, stated in reply: "The markers were third place in the companies after being last for some two or three years it was really disappointing. All competitors were intensely keen and extremely good to me. I thank them from the bottom tried their utmost to get the points which we so badly needed. Still, of my heart.” T/Cpl. Taylor, Wooden Spoonist, amidst better luck next time. I am not going to give the results of the T H E D R A G O N 289

Battalion Sports Meeting as somebody more capable than I will do that, Discus T eam.—Sgt. Smith, Pte. Whiskin. but there is one thing that I should like to say. The Company backs A new event to the team competition. Teams of two only. This me up when I give Mr. Reeves every congratulation on the fine way should be four next year to place it on the same standard of other he ran in the Two Mile Relay Race. Also, we would like to congratulate events. Sgt. Smith did well with a throw of 77' 5" and Pte. Whiskin Pte. Marsden on liis fine performance in the Tong Jump. Better luck with 71' 2*. The Company were again third. This gave us twelve next time, “ Tut.” points for field events, a better result than we expected. Everything now is bustle and excitement. Next Monday the 4x100 Y ards R elay T eam.—T/Cpl. Brigstock, T/Cpl. O'Connor, Company go out on a three days’ march. This will complete the Ptes. Burgess and Clements. training for this year and then we prepare for Tondon. I feel sure All did very well to gain another third place. This was hot one that when the time comes not only the men of the Company, but every of our strong points. man in the battalion will uphold the prestige of the Regiment when we T h r ee Miles T eam.—T/Cpls. Hurley, Fox, Marsh, Pte. Whiskin. go to the Capital. One of our strong points. T/Cpl. Hurley set the pace which was We are exceedingly sorry to notice on reading Battalion Orders bound to prove disastrous to the inexperienced. He continued to reel that Sgt.-Major Simon is going to the 1st Battalion during the coming off laps with ease, whilst others fell out and won quite comfortably. trooping season. It is a case of our loss and their gain. We wish him T/Cpl. Fox ran a great race to finish second. ’ T/Cpl. Marsh did fine to every success and trust that one day we shall once again see him as finish fifth. Pte. Whiskin did well to finish 21st, but will now remem­ Sgt.-Major of “B” Company. ber that it is only a man that is trained and fit can race three miles round a track. The Company were first. Well done ! 4x120 Y ards H urdles T eam .—T/Sgt. Jackman, Cpl. Hobson, T/Cpl. Fox,. Pte. McKay. “ G” Company. Few hurdlers exist in the battalion and these few do not belong to us. Anyway, our team stuck to their job and cleared their hurdles Our last month has been an exceptionally busy time for all, so many well, not one being knocked over. In this event we again finished third. big events having taken place within such a short period, that one T/Cpl. Fox deserves special mention for he came straight out of a hard was apt to get confused ; still, as usual, everything went off with three miles race and took his place in this team, performing very our usual success. well too. I regret to announce the death of Ptc. B. Fox, late of the Two Mile R elay T eam.—C.S.M. Ongley, T/Sgt. Trinkwon, Ptes. 1st Battalion. Pte. Fox had only just returned to England and. our Belson, Tong. deepest sympathies are extended to his brother, T/Cpl. Fox of our Another of our strong events. Pte. Tong set off on the first stage Company in his loss. and by a well-judged race gave us an early lead, Belson taking over, Most of us have now forgotten our Company Training which took only served to increase our ever-growing lead and T/Sgt. Trinkwon place during the month, but I doubt if any will forget where Sugar- taking still added more, leaving our C.S.M. to romp home a comfortable Toaf Hill is ; still, now we are in the midst of Battalion Training, winner thus bringing another victory to us. Well done, so here we will get plenty of opportunities to practice the climbing 4x220 Y ards R elay T eam.— 2/Tieut. - Craddock, T/Cpl. Blake, of this “ famous ” hill. Ptes. Garrett, Redman. Congratulations to T/Cpl. Jones and Pte. Belson on obtaining The last three ran quite well. Mr. Craddock took the last stage, their Second Class Certificates, and I believe I am right in saying that easily catching T/Cpl. Spence of “B ” Company to gain second place. they are studying hard for the next one. We wish them both luck. “M.G.” Company were too far ahead to be caught. A very good effort. Our Company Sports were held on July 1st, but I must remark On e Mil e T eam R ace.—C.S.M. Ongley, T/Sgt. Trinkwon, T/Cpl. that many of our “ stars ” require quite a lot of training before they Hurley, T/Cpl. O’Connor. take part in Battalion Sports. At the conclusion of the Sports the Another of our strong teams. T/Sgt. Trinkwon and T/Cpl. Hurley Company Commander presented the prizes and made comments on soon took the lead and finished first and second in 4 mins. 41 secs. the kind of training many of our men require ; also to the thanks due T/Cpl. O’Connor did well indeed to finish 3rd. ' C.S.M. Ongley, to finish to Tieut. Craddock and T/Sgt. Trinkwon on their hard work to make sixth, showed us once again how to get fit to run in spite of 37 years of the sports such a success. age and nearly 19 years’ service. Our winning team completed the Full results are :— Mile in 5 mins'. 10 secs. Well done. One M ile.—Winner: T/Cpl. Hurley; (2) T/Cpl. Fox; (3) Pte. On e Mil e R elay T eam.—2/Tieut. Craddock, T/Cpls. Blake, Tong. Brigstock, Pte. Redman. Putting the Weight.—Winner: T/Cpl. Marsh; (2) Pte. I-Iere we had onr first and only bit of misfortune. T/Cpl. Blake and Burgess ; (3) Cpl. Wheeler. 27' 5". T/Cpl. Brigstock did very well in the first two stages, Pte. Redman, Discus.— Winner : Pte. Belson ; (2) Cpl. Hobson ; (3) T/Sgt. third stage, should have been our second best man in the team, but a Trinkwon. 77' 3". kicked ankle caused him to almost walk 150 yards. This put the 100 Yards.—Winner: T/Cpl. Brigstock; (2) Cpl. Hobson; Company back to a very bad fourth place before Mr. Craddock was (3) Pte. Clements. able to get the baton. Having got a grip upon it, he commenced to 880 Yards.—Winner: T/S0t. Trinkwon ; (2) T/Cpl. Hurley ; show us many things, amongst them being how a 440 should be run, (3) Pte. Whiskin. how never to look on a situation as impossible, how never to say die. High J ump.—Winner: Pte. Belson ; (2) T/Cpl. Marsh ; (3) I cannot accurately say what lead the 2nd and 3rd men had, some­ Cpl. Hobson. 4' 9". where near 150 yards, but Mr. Craddock just flew round the track, 440 Yards.—Winner: T/Cpl. Fox; (2) T/Cpl. Brigstock; (3) catching the third man about 20 yards from home, just failing by a Pte. Berry. foot to catch the 2nd man, a real effort. The result might have been Tong J ump.— Winner : T/Sgt. Trinkwon ; (2) Cpl. Hobson ; different except for Redman’s misfortune. The Company were placed (3) Cpl. Wheeler. 18'. 3rd. Very well done. 220 Yards.— Winner : T/Sgt. Trinkwon ; (2) Pte. Burgess ; For the whole eleven events the Company obtained three first (3) T/Cpl. Marsh. places ; two second ; fi,vc third ; one fourth ; no fifth or sixth. Once again wc found recruits joining us, for we received ten of This proves the all-round standard of the Company. Our thanks the last draft to our fold. are due to those who tried hard, also those willing to try to keep the Our congratulations to the N.C.O.’s and Men of the Company Company flag on top. who represented the Battalion in the A.R.A. Meeting at Bisley, and we are pleased to see that Cpl. Tee still retains his “ Dead Eye.” Our congratulations to T/Cpl. Blake on his recent marriage and we wish him all the hest of luck for his future happiness. We heartily welcome Sgt. MeNeir to the Company, but in doing so, Machine Gun Company. we bid farewell to C.Q.M.S. Burville, who left us for “H.Q.” Wing, \ and in him we lose a prominent Athlete and Cricketer. Since our last issue of Dragon Notes nothing of great importance The Inter-Company Relay and Team events were held on Saturday, has happened except the Battalion Athletics, prior to which, of course, July 11th. The Individual events were not held this year; we hope wc held our Company Sports, to enable the teams to represent the by next year that the financial position will permit these to be carried Company in the Battalion Sports to be chosen. The results of the out, for it is important that we should have our champions at the Company Sports are as follows :— various distances and field events. 100 Y ards(I) T/Cpl. Cowley (10 3/5 secs.); (2) T/Cpl. Chapman ; The Company have won the Inter-Company Athletic Meeting (3) Pte. Underwood. since 1925, therefore it was most important that we should prepare 220 Ya r d s — (1) T/Cpl. Cowley (24 secs.) ; (2) T/Cpl. Chapman ; good teams to hold off all the opposition that was to be put against (3) Cpl. Tracey. us. We expected to win, but other -Companies thought otherwise. 440 Y ards.— (1) Cpl. Tracey (56 secs.); (2) T/Cpl. Cowley; (3) Our all-round, good standard plus our good men enabled us to win once T/Cpl. Sexton. more. 880 Yards.— (1) Cpl. Tracey (2 mins. 14 2/5 secs.) ; (2) T/Cpl. High J ump Team.—T/Cpl. Marsh, Ptes. Belson, Moore, McKay. Cowley; (3) Tieut. F. W. B. Parry. The standard in this was not so good this year. The Company On e Mil e .— (1) T/Cpl. Dodd (5 mins. 11 secs.); (2) T/Cpl. Sexton managed to find four average jumpers that maintained their form (5 mins. 14 secs.) „ and did good service to get placed second. T h r ee Mil e s .—(I) T/Cpl. Dodd (16 mins. 23 secs.); (2) Pte. T. Tong J ump Team.—Cpls. Tee, Hobson, Ptes. Garrett, Moore. West; (3) Pte. Warner. This event was well up to standard. The Company Team was 120 Yards H urdles.—(1) T/Cpl. Chapman (19 2/5 secs.); (2) placed third. It is difficult to produce winning teams in all events, T/Cpl. Austin ; (3) T/Sgt. Bartlett. , especially when building for general all round standard. Pte. Garrett Throwing th e Discus.—(1) Pte. Collins (77 ft.); (2) T/Cpl. jumped 17' 7*. The other three were all over 16'. Roser (76 ft. 6 ins.); (3) T/Cpl. Dodd (74 ft.) • Putting the Weight Team.—Tieut. Airy, 2/Tieut. Harwood, P utting th e Shot.—(1) Tieut. F. W. B. Parry (30 ft.); (2) Set. Smith, T/Cpl. King. Sgt. Smith did well with 28' 11"; Tieut. T/Cpl. Roser (29 ft. 10 ins.) ; (3) Pte. Jordan (29 ft. 3 ins.) fury, 25' 11"; T/Cpl. King, 25' 1"; 2/Tieut. Harwood, 23' 2". We Tong J ump.—(1) T/Cpl. Milne (17 ft. 1 in .); (2) T/Cpl. Cowley must find some more weight-putters for next yean (16 ft. 3 ins.); (3) T/Cpl. C. Parker (15 ft. 3 ins.) 290 T H E D R A G O N

High J ump.—(1) E/Cpl. Austin; (2) E/Cpl. Milne. T h in g s w e w a n t to k n o w . In the Throwing the Discus, 1,/Cpl. Roser had very hard luck in not being 1st with a throw of 89 ft. 1 in., i.e., just slipping out of the Who is the man that went fishing with a pin for a hook and cotton ring when throwing. Hard lines, Alf., much better luck next time. for a line ? Ask Noser. The Sports were held on the 4th July, and for once in a while the Does the gun go Autonatical ? Ask Keeler. weather was kind to us. It was very dull and cloudy during the day, After the Medley Race in the Battalion Sports, is our O.C. still but the rain managed to keep off. At the conclusion of the sports, in favour of the “ Eong Carry ” ? the Company sat down , to a nice tea very kindly supplied to us by our Company Commander, Capt. G. R. Howe, and prepared well by E/Cpls. Hadlow and Castle, and assisted by our Mess. Orderlies. In the Choosing of the teams for the Battalion Sports, the Selection Committee could not have done better, and I think that all will agree The Drums. with me, for we only just missed getting 1st place by 4 (four) points, Owing to my duties being rather heavy I was unable to submit any which really was a great show considering. I am not going to start notes last month. However, I think I have had rather a lean time of making excuses, but I must say all you other Companies, if we had had late (at least someone else thinks so) and I will endeavour to send two just one little bit of luck on our side, we should have; won the Sports months’ “ news ” in now. ■ quite comfortably, anyway, hard luck “ Gunners,” better luck next I honestly think I am justified in starting with our doings on the year. Even now we. are only one point behind in the Inter-Company Annual Course fired at Hythe. Why ? Well, I see that every other Championship which, of course, we shall finish up by winning. That Company has done so in last month’s issue and we don’t intend to be is our aim, anyway, and as you know, a gun Vickers '303, properly left at the Post. ‘ So stand by. Watch your front, safety catches directed by a person who knows something about it, and with good forward.” Don’t get your own back in the next month’s Dragon, gunners, can be very effective—this was proved in the Football and all you 100% Companies. Hockey. The Drummers obtained five Marksmen out of ten that were The Battalion Sports were held on the lltli July and once again the classifying with the ride, vis. : E/Cpl. A. J. Banks (Company Shot), weather turned out fine. E/Cpl. Sedgwick, Dmrs. Collins, Williams, Smart. Easily one of the best races was the Mile Relay which it so happens A.A. Gun :—Cpl. Toms (107), Dmrs. Manbridge (127, Company we won. I t was in this that Eieut. Craddock ran a wonderful race to Shot), Peebles (126), Pout (107), Pilcher (125), Jolley (107), Gray get “C” Company 2nd place. After being somewhere about 25 to 30 (99). Not too bad. Glance it over and take “ tips.” yards behind when he .took over the baton, he ran in such a determined We wish to congratulate Drm. Tim and Mrs. Pilcher on the birth manner that he finished a short lead in front of the third man : Well of their second baby boy on 12tli May. So he has two silver buglers run, S ir! standing by. The results are as follows :— Congratulations also to Drum-Major Duffy on winning the 400 Yards Relay. Sergeants’ Mess Wooden Spoon. After all, there is a certin amount of “M.G.” Coy. 4th. Team: E/Sgt. Bartlett, E/Cpl. Woolford, honour attached to this as all the Sergeants’ Mess was competing. Pte. Underwood, Pte. Hogben. We have had a few engagements since our last notes appeared, 480 Yards. H urdles. namely:—Alexandra Palace, Maidstone and the Kent County Police “M.G.” Coy. 2nd. Team: Eieut. F. W. B. Parry, E/Sgt. Bartlett, Sports at Folkestone, “ Napier Barracks ” every Sunday. So you can E/Sgt. Newell, E/Cpl. Austin. seg we are in demand. 880 Yards R elay. Dmrs. Pilcher and Whittington are doing duty as Buglers to the .“M.G.” Coy. 1st. Team: E/Sgt. Good, Cpl. Tracey, E/Cpl. O.T.C. who are at Shorncliffe. Cowley, E/Cpl. Chapman. One Mile Team Race. “M.G.” Coy. 5th. Team: E/Cpl. Dodd, E/Cpl. Sexton, Pte. H. H e a r d o n t h e R a n g e . (A.A. Co u r s e ). West, Pte. Beeching. Firing Point Officer: “ Book here, your shots were all low last time. One Mile Relay. What do you intend doing to rectify your error ? ” “M.G.” Coy. 1st. Team : E/Sgt. Good, Cpl. Tracey, E/Cpl. Cowley, A.<4. Gunner (Dr.-"X"): "E ast time, Sir, I had the A.A. stand up E/Cpl. Chapman. three holes. If I put it up to four that will be O.K.” Two Miles R elay. F.P.O.: “ Cease Firing.” “M.G.” Coy. 4th. Team: Eieut. J. F. Connolly, E/Sgt. Newell, A.J.B. E/Cpl. Woolford, Pte. Eongley. Three Miles Team Race. “M.G.” Coy..2nd. Team: E/Cpl. Dodd, E/Cpl. Sexton, Pte. T. West, Pte. Beeching. H igh J ump. “M.G.” Coy. 1st. Team : E/Cpl. Austin, E/Cpl. Milne, Pte. Jordan, 5 John Street, Pte. Burton. Putting the Shot. Southampton. “M.G.” Coy. 2nd. Team : L/Cpl. Roser, Pte. Jordan, Pte. Burton, July 28th, 1931. Pte. Stead. Dear Sir, Throwing the Discus. “M.G.” Coy. 2nd. Team: Eieut. F. W. B. Parry, E/Cpl. Roser. As the trooping season is getting near, I am writing The next item of importance is the Company Relay Race, to be run on the 8th August. This should prove very interesting indeed, as the to ask if you will insert in The Dragon that any Buffs two main contestants are again “C” Company and of course, “M.G.” passing through this part, either coming on leave Company. I think we can win, in fact we have got to, or else I shall from the 1st Battalion or returning to India and who have to go on Short pay for the rest of my life in order to pay off my would like to spend a night in Southampton before betting losses, for I have backed the jolly old Company to the tune of one jolly old shilling) please note it is singular), the reason being I embarking, I would be pleased to see them and put cannot find anyone who will bet against me. them up for a night or two. Congratulations to E/Sgts. Newell and Bartlett on getting to the final' of the Individual Bayonet-Fighting Championship, which E/Sgt. I live just outside the dock gates and five minutes’ Newell won. Hard luck, Ned. walk from the berth where the troopships tie up. At the time of writing these notes we are in the midst of Battalion Training, our last scheme (Battalion Test Scheme) taking place on the I saw all the drafts off last year and also met those 15th July. This does not wind up our training, as we have a three coming home, and any members of those drafts will days’ Company March on the 21st, 22nd and 23rd. No doubt more remember the postman who was on board and talked details of the Battalion Training will be seen in the battalion notes. Congratulations to the following on being appointed Unpaid- with them. Although I did not know many of those Eance-Corporals:—Arber, Chapman, Field, Eeech, Russell, J. Sharp, men going out, I knew most of those coming home. Jessop, Taplin and C. Parker. The following are at present attending lectures and drill parades My wife, also having done a few years on the strength, for a promotion examination which takes place at the end of this month will welcome any married women returning home (July) :—Cpl. Blanch, E/Cpls. Roser, Hadlow and Austin, while the who would like to have a cup of tea after a long trip. newly-appointed E/Cpls. are attending for instruction. We all hope that these N.C.O.’s will pass the examination with flying colours. I had Sgt. Petley and wife and Sgt. Annar and wife We welcome E/Sgt. Good to the Company from the Regimental here last year, also Sgt. Morgan and family when he Depot. May his stay with us be long and enjoyable. came home. I have plenty of accommodation and all Since our last Notes, Eieut. F. W. B. Parry and Tich (Newman) have rejoined us after a holiday ? with the R.A. in Wales. By all will be welcome. accounts the Camp was a proper mud pond, never mind, Tich, many Wishing the dear old Dragon every success, people pay well for a mud bath, and you had a chance to have one for nothing. I am. Sir, Crankhandle. Yours faithfully, H e a r d o n P a r a d e . G. E . W a r n e r . Who is the N.C.O. who said “ Get Felled in ” ? Ask Ned. (Bate Sgt. "A” Coy. 2nd Bn. The Buffs.) THE DRAGON 291 Beneath Bell Harry NE of the priv­ O ileges of being at the Depot is that of meeting the large num­ ber of interesting people who, for social or military reasons, find their way into the Headquarters of the Regiment. In this connection last month has provided several examples. We had a visit, early in July, from the Educational Staff of the Eastern Command, in the shape of Eieut.-Colonel Maude, D.S.O., A.E.C. (grand­ nephew of Major Maude, V.C., the Crimean hero, and nephew of General Sir Stanley Maude of “ Mespot ” fame, under whom the 1 /5th Buffs served in the Great War). With him was Captain Charman, M.B.E., Lieut. Cooper and his brother outside A.E.C., the son and grandson of Buffs and The Warriors’ Chapel. otherwise closely connected with the Regiment. On July 13th we were very pleased to see We heartily congratulate Captain Andrews Lieut. Cooper and his brother, of The Queen’s on his promotion. The Commanding Officer Own Rifles of Canada, now on a holiday visit had all recruits on parade and personally to England. They had come specially to lay put the extra stars in Captain Andrews’ a wreath in the Canadian corner of the Warriors’ shoulder-straps. He reminded everyone that Chapel in Canterbury Cathedral. An officer the rank of Quartermaster was open to anyone from the Depot went down and helped them from the ranks who worked for it.. Captain to perform this little ceremony and afterwards Andrews was a recruit here the same as they shewed them the Book of Life and other were, and had worked his way up, incidentally memorials in the Chapel and the rest of the teaching himself to read and write. (Those Cathedral. The wreath is a particularly fine without " 3rds ” please note.) one of beautiful arum lilies, and visitors to The Commanding Officer read out a message the Chapel have remarked on it. from the Colonel of the Regiment, congratulat­ Other events of the month which have ing Captain Andrews on his promotion, the interested us have been, the Rochester Pageant, parade marched past Captain Andrews who took the Wrotham Picnic, attended by Captain the salute. 1 q Andrews and Lieuts. Lynden-Bell, Walters The stage is now set for Canterbury Cricket and Mathew; and the “ Buffoons and Week, during which this number should Buffettes ” variety entertainment, organised appear, and we offer a silent prayer for. fine by Miss Lynden-Bell, of which a full account weather on each of the days. . will be found elsewhere. Suffice it to say that those who came over from Canterbury thought that the talent was extremely good Appeal. i and enjoyed it thoroughly. Tlie Education Officer of The Depot would be very grateful to anyone who can spare, either as gifts or Whilst talking of theatricals, we might as loans, any books, pamphlets, pictures," or maps mention that a highly successful " gaff ” was that are likely to be of assistance to the: instructors in held in the Library on June 30th to celebrate teaching Regimental History. Prints. of Battles, the last night at the Depot of the “ Colonel war maps, and pictures of weapons or uniforms in particular would be very welcome. Nothing of any Robert Sidney ” Squad, and we hope that real value, intrinsic or extensive, is needed. Any the B.A.D.S. will find some of this new talent contributions will be thankfully received by Lieut. useful in the future. Lynden-Bell. m THE DRAGON

Cricket. On 23rd June we held a Cricket Fixture with the June 25th. Canterbury City Police, which ended in a draw. Depot The Buffs "A”—148 for 5 wkts. (i.d.c.)„ (Dawson 51 not out). Another match with the same team was about to Gas and Water Works—151 for 7 wkts. commence on 7th July, blit a cloudburst oyer, Canter­ June 21th. bury decided that there should be no play that day Kenningtbh—138 for 5 wkts. (i.d.c.) Depot The Buffs—63 and 93 for 7 wkts. and the rain also decided that we should not hold the June 29th. ’ : ' return fixture with the Royal Marines on 15th July. Depot THe Buffs—198 (Bieut. Tuff, 56; Bieut. Connolly, 35; Bieut. Gilford, 34). On 18th June we successfully held our own against Ibis C.C.—201; for 6 wkts. the Corporals at cricket. They had expected a win— July 1st. trusting to L/Cpl. Bley’s deadly bowling, but good St. Augustine's College—-50 (Gilford, 7 for 30). fortune smiled on us through C.S.M. Williams, Sgt. Depot The Buffs—210 (Bi&Ut. King, S3; Dr. Hudson, 54; Capt. Wickham, and L/Sgt. Cross as the following will shew :— Willows, 30).. July 4th. Sergeants. Depot The BUffs—189 (Bt. Mount 8.0 —Dawson 51) C.S.M. Williams, not out...... 86 Goodncstbne Park—89 (Gilford, 6 for 50 ; Dawson 3 for 24). Sgt. Wickliatn, lhw, b Eley...... 4 July 8th. Sgt. Trice, b Eley...... 0 Depot The Buffs—143 (Bieut. Gilford, 31 ; Sgt. Wickham, 31* ; B/Sgt. King, c Ciiipp-Smith, b Eley...... 7 Bieut. Kihg, 27). R.Q.M.S. Ings, b E ley...... 0 Heme Bay College—55 (Gilford, 6 for 18). Sgt. Saunders, c and b Ingram ...... 8 July llfft. ‘ Sgt. Papworth, b Eley...... ;...... 0 Depot The Buffs—94 (Gilford, 26 ; Hudson, 21*). C.Q.M.S. Gibson, c Charlton, b Eley...... 17 B/Sgt. Cross, c King, b Eley...... 45 Beverley—141’ (Mbiiht, 4 tot 15). B/Sgt. Good, b Eley...... 0 July 11 th. Cr.-Sgt. Shorter, not out...... 22 Depot The Btiffs “A”—53. E xtras...... 13 Whitstable arid Tankerton—76. July 16th. Total (for 9 wkts.) (Innings declared)...... 202 Braybon’S. C.C.—21 (for 1 wkt.). Rain stopped play. Corporals. July I8tk. ' ; Faversham Gunpowder- Works—71 (Gilford, 4 for 34 ; Wickham, .Cpl. Fletcher, e Wickham, b Saunders...... 3 3 for 17). B/Cpl. Eley, c Wickham, b Williams...... 39 ' Depot The Buffs—87 (for 8 wkts.)—(Gilford, 31; Hudson, 24). •Cpl. Ciiipp-Smith, b Wickham...... 2 Cpl. Ingram, lhw, b Wickham...... ;...... 5 Cpl. Charlton, b Wickham...... 0 B/Cpl. Carr, b Wickham...... 10 Sergeants’ Mess. Cpl. Hills, b Wickham...... 8 B/Cpl. Crane, b Williams...... 0 During the month we fired off the following practices B/Cpl. Martin, b Cross...... 11 to complete the outstanding Shooting Cup Competition Cpl. George, b Wickham...... '...... 13 B/Cpl. King, not out...... 2 and Spoon Shoots E xtras...... 12 Practice i. 15 rounds Rapid. 20Q/30 Target. „ 2. 10 rounds Application. 200/30 „ Total...... 105 „ ; 3. 5 rounds Snap. 200/25 ,, 4. . 5 rounds Application. 500/30 ,, We finished up the evening with a series of games „ 5. 5 rounds Snap. 200/30 in the Mess, the results of which were, I think, about ,, 6. .5 rounds Timed. 200/30 ,, honours even. 7. lO rounds Application. ' 200/25 „ On 27th J une we held our Annual Cork Club Outing „ 8. 5 rounds Snap: 200/25 ,, by proceeding on the Circular Tour—Canterbury— H.P.S. 235. . Herne Bay—Southend—Chatham—Canterbury. Results Winner of Shooting Cup for ,1930: S.I.M. Trice. Glorious weather prevailed and consequently we Score 223. were able to thoroughly enjoy it, especially the boat Runner-up : L/Sgt. Cross. Score 215. trips and 5 hours at Southend. - . , . Silver Spoon. Wooden Spoon. January.' . S.I.M. Trice. R.Q.M.S. Ings. * -February. Set. Pfetley. Sgt. Stace. • March. L/Sgt. King. L/Sgt. Cook. Corporals’ Mess. April-June. L/Sgt. Cross. L/Sgt. Thorndycroft. As far as we are concerned June has been a very *.... S.I.M. Trice is to be congratulated on winning the interesting month. .Shooting Cup two years in sucession. On Thursday; June 18th The Sergeants invited us , The games in connection with the George Porter to a game of cricket and a series of indoor games. The Billiard Handicap Cup have not yet been completed, game started about 2.30 p.m., the Sergeants winning but the following are the finalists-:— the toss. They sent in C.S.M. Williams and Sgt. Wick­ ham as their opening hats, but it did not take us long to C.Q.M.S. Gibson v. Sgt. Wickham. dispose of Sgt. Wickham. The next five were also Mr. C. Kimber of the London Branch recently paid disposed for the small amount of 15 runs and we were us his usual annual visit, and we were glad to see him congratulating ourselves that we were going to have an looking as fit as ever. easy win. C.Q.M.S. Gibson decided otherwise ? ? ' ’' L/Sgt. Good of the 2nd Battalion having completed He is a firm believer in “ hitting hard ” and he certainly the good- Work for which he was loaned to us, rejoined gave us, and the spectators, a good demonstration. his battalion on the 10th July. Bventually Cpl. Chariton caught hun in deep field after he had scored 17 runs. : Mr. S. Harvey has also left us on termination of his employment as Officers' Mess Steward, being relieved It is said that a cat has “ nine lives.” I should ,t>y Mr. A. !E>. Goodwin, and whilst we welcome the latter imagine that L/Sgt. Cross must have had “ ninety ” ? ? back to the Depot we sincerely hope that Mr. Harvey He added another 45 runs to the score before he got- Soon settles down in a new job. caught by Leslie. THE DRAGON W I

Sgt. Good then came on the scene carrying his bat Cricket. in the approved style ? ? But alas ! the ball refused Played at Worthing on the 7 th June, 1931. to have anything to do with him ; instead it decided 4t h Battalion The Queen’s Own R.W. Kent . Regiment ».• 4th to have an argument with his wicket. So he made a < B a tta lio n The Bvm?8.: quick exit. 4th Battalion R.W.fC. •' . - The Sergeants declared when they had scored 202, I,veut. Hudson, c Sidders, b T u tt...... 9 much to our relief and then started to get busy; our Weut.-Col, Hancock, c Geering, b Sidwell. Capt. de TTphaugh, b Tevett...... next eight men Were bowled out for the small amount Tieut. Scott, hSparkes...... of 49 runs (Eley 39). R esult: Sgts. 202 for 8 wickets, Capt. Du Buisson, c Sparkes, b Sidwell..,. 27 Cpls. 105. U/Cpl. Pride, not out...... 2 6 C.S.M. Hine, b Sparkes...... -.7 i Capt. Burke 1 Capt. Howlett > Did not bat. Sgt. Theroux J Trained Soldiers. Total (for six declared)...... We are shortly losing Alderson; he goes to the R.A.P.C., on t Probation. His place is being taken by Dovejoy ; we wish them both Bowling Analysis. the best of luck. Dieut. Tutt ...... 1 for 23 Everyone is talking about P.P. and how to hold it. We are getting Pte. Sparkes ...... 2 for 70 in a little Snide Practice on Tuesdays. , Tucker is still locked in the C.S.M. Sidwell ...... ■' s 2-for 37 V-v Blue Cupboard—the butterfly screw is still tight at the neck. Pte. Devett ...... ' ... I tot 13 V •} The G.O.C. paid his annual visit on the 8th. Quite an unusual 4th Battalion The Buffs. ; sight to see so many strange faces on parade. But wc all missed Bogey pieut. Tutt, lbw, b Scott...... •' 8 and Dougie. “ I don’t know why.” Major Scott, b Howlett...... 0 W.P. Pte. Sparkes, b Howlett...... 10 Pte. Devett, b Scott...... 15 Capt. Willows, b Howlett...... 43 Capt. Sherwood, b Scott...... 1 C.S.M. Sidwell, b Scott...... ;...... •••»...... 4 Capt. Bacon, b Scott...... 2 Pte. Sidders, not out...... 2 Total (for 8 wkts.), 98 Bowling Analysis. 4th Battalion. Tieut. Scott ...... v 5 for 26 f Capt. H ow lett...... • 3 for 38 : 'E have very little to Dicut.-Colonel Hancock O for 17 Match Drawn. W 1report this month. On July 23rd we are being visited by Colonel “C” (Weald) Company. . . \ Crossman, our Brigade Com­ Once again’ Camp is behind us and the majority of the Company . mander, • who is going , to have resumed the daily round of agricultural life in the Weald. • 1 It will tie generally agreed that Myrtle Grove had her charms, and ; inspect several of our drill there were days when she looked radiant as the sunshine lit up her dear • halls. This will be his first cut features, but the lady was rather too emotional for the average man, : and though her tears were comparatively warn ones, they had a way of ’ official visit to our area penetrating into the very heart of her victims! It was only the timely ) arrival of the T urn jar that saved many good Buffs from being drowned since he assumed command in the waters of passion. We would suggest to Myrtle that if we are | of the Brigade. ever again entrusted to her care that she should adopt a more ordjnary | method of attracting our affection. : s , ’ ‘ • We have lost one of So much for her. i our oldest and most res­ We congratulate Captain Bacon and-his boiler-makers on winning ■ the Harris Shield and we look forward to depriving them of it again pected Sergeants this month. before many Camps are over. But all the King’s gunners and all the 1 Sgt. Twyman has been with : King’s men could not pull the Weald over in the Tug-of-war again 1 j this battalion since 1893 We may be slow, but we keep pulling. Once again we derived : great benefit from the help of the Officers and N.C.O.’s of the 2nd ' and has now 38 years’ service. He has been Battalion who were in Camp with us and we look forward to seeing j in charge of the Officers’ Mess for many years,, sonic more of them next year. ... The garden is crying out for water and the Company scribe must j and his familiar figure will be greatly missed tread his dusty path with dripping water cans to rescue the more f at future camps. We would like to thank delicate seedlings, (Oh ! for Myrtle’s welcdxjie t^ars-!),' and ?o to bed ; lest these notes be mistaken for weekly gardening hints instead of'‘the j him through these columns for his great and ; echoes of martial evolutions. ] loyal service to the battalion, and to say how • A.IS.If.H. | sorry we are to lose him. “D” Company. ‘ ; . ' . - ‘ i Next month (on August 16th) we hope the Our notes tills month must necessarily be somewhat short '• as we have little to report. " The Buffs Fete and Fair ” took place at i battalion will turn up in large numbers to attend the Drill Hall and the grounds adjoining on 8th and ,9th, July, but a ! the Regimental Service of Remembrance at fuller report will be found in the Past and Fresent -Association The j Buffs’ Notes. The Drums <( Beat Retreat ” for the first time this ; the Cathedral. It is our one chance of getting year on Wednesday, 8th July before a very large attendance which f included, our Commanding Officer, Tieut.-Colonel B . 8- .Cpllard, X.D., ; the battalion together between annual trainings, and Mrs. Collard, Capt. J. Sherwood, and Xiettts. B . F^|ggW49K9nd ? and no one should miss this great opportunity. A. C. Roberts. Once again the Drummers disttnmiteh^ thfm^elyes, r particularly if one judges them by the applaffse they received; rFor ! Bunch will be provided and the same arrange­ the benefit of any Past or Present Buffs, The, Drums will “ Beat ' ments will be made as in 1930. Retreat ” at Dover on Wednesdays, 12th August agd' 2pd and 'Ath r September, and we extend a very hearty invitation to* any Buffs who ; may be present to visit the Club at The Drill Halli H.W. J .S» ; RICHARDSON & Co. V Y i S , 26 KING STREET, ST. JAMES’S, LONDON, S.W.l. nioH i/ SUPPLY— THH HAST KENT Regimental Kit of all kinds GROCERS Regimental Buttons and Badges 36 RENDEZVOUS S r u FOLKESTONE Swagger Canes m AND BRANCHES Sports Requisites Sports Prizes Shooting Prizes Presentation Gifts G. DOLTON & SONS (we will make suggestions suitable for all Ranks) 2 Royal Military Avenue, Newspapers and Magazines by CHERITON. post to all parts of the world

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Messes Supplied. Papers delivered New Exercises and Examination Tests on Maps, together with the answers, promptly. Telephone: 85493.form a prominent feature of this well illustrated book. Candidates for Certifi­ cates of Education will find here just the THE help they need in their work of FOLKESTONE & DISTRICT preparation. Licensed Victuallers Invaluable aid to Instructors and Students. MINERAL WATER and General Supply COMPANY Ltd. Price 3 / 6 By Post 3 /9 . 10 FOORD ROAD - FOLKESTONE. ’Phone: 326. Obtainable from the Printers & Publishers— HIGH CLASS MINERAL WATERS & CYDER. Wholesale Tobacconist and Biscuit Merchants. GALE & POLDEN, LTD., CLUBS, MESSES &c. SUPPLIED WELLINGTON WORKS, ALDERSHOT. . Daily Deliveries. And at LONDON & PORTSMOUTH. 330 THE DRAGON

The Regimental Gazette POSTINGS, 6284395 Pte. F. Milgate (2nd Battalion The Buffs), posted to Depot The 2nd Battalion. for a tour ofduty, 26-7-31.

B o y s ’ E n l is t m e n t s . St r e n g t h —D e c r e a s e . Boy G. Jefferies, “H.Q.,” attested 11-7-31 for 1st Battalion The Buffs. Term of service 12 years (9 with Colours and 3 Reserve) as The undermentioned, the “ Vane ” Squad, were posted to 2nd from attaining age of 18 years, i.e., 4-3-35. Battalion The Buffs on 29-7-31 :— 6284752 Pte. A. T. Austin, 6284772 Pte. N .> T. Bailey, 6284698 A p p o in t m e n t . Pte. E. F, Barnes, 6284761 Pte. S. A. Battams, 804778 Pte. D- E. Biggs, 6734127. Pte. A. C. Brockman, 6284766 Pte. W. F. Burton, 6282200 D/Cpl. G. Ashby, “H.Q.” (1st Battalion attached), 6284764 Pte. E. W. Emptage, 6284745 Pte. H. S. Epps, 6284767 Pte. appointed Paid Dance -Corporal, 27-4-31. D. J. Good, 6284649 Pte. F. Harris, 6284693 Pte. A. Heather, 6284768 Pte. R. F. F. Hoare, 6284247 Pte. M. Howard, 6284763 Pte. G.. V. J. T r a n s f e r t o A r m y R e s e r v e . Dancaster, 6341368 Pte. H. E- Manser, 6284770 Pte. P. C. Nelligan. • 6282461 Cpl. F. Goatley, “M.G.,” transferred to Army Reserve, 6284682 Pte. E. W. Potter, 6284743 Pte. R. Russell, 6284565 Pte. 22-7-31. W. E. Williams. 6282458 D/Cpl. A. Dane, “B,” transferred to Army Reserve, 24-7-31. D is c h a r g e s . 6282484 Pte. G. Bates, "H.Q'.,” transferred to Army Reserve, 28-7-31. 6387179 Pte. W. Allen, discharged under para. 370 (xviii) 'K.R.’s, '6004425 D/Sigt. J. Bentley, "H.Q;,” transferred to Army Reserve, 24-7-31. . • 14-8-31. 6284938 Pte. P. Moore, discharged under para. 370 (iii), K.R.’s, 6282501 Pte.-C. Johnson, “H.Q.,-’ transferred to' Army Reserve, 27-7-31. , 17-8-31. . 6284744 Pte. E. Burford, discharged under para. 370 fvi) (6) K.R.’s. D is c h a r g e . 27-7-31. 6284491 Pte. E, Quested, “A,” discharged under K.R., para. 370 (viii.) The 4th Battalion.

The Depot E n l is t m e n t s .

R e c r u it s . The undermentioned recruits have been attested, taken on the Attested as shewn :— . strength and posted to companies as shewn :— Recruits J- Thornton, 30-7-31 ; G. S..W. Care, 7-8-31 ; D. Boy W. Ward, “D,” 19-7-31. Collins, 8-8-31 ; H.' Deader, 10-8-31 ; A. M. Duncan, 10-8-31 ; Pte. G. Shingleton, “D,” 21-7-31. G. A. ~H. Dane, 4-8-31 ; H. Roylance, 13-8-31. Pte. F. King, “D,:". 1-8-31.

P r o m o t io n a n d A ppointments . A t t a c h m e n t o n P r o b a t io n , R.A.P.C. 6283714 Pte. T. H. Alderson (2nd Battalion The Buffs, attached), 6283445 Pte. G.. Brazier, “D” (F), appointed Paid Dance-Corporal, to the R.A.P.C, “ On Probation ” at the Cavalry Pay and Record 20-7-31. Office, Canterbury, 21-7-31. 6284089 D/Cpl. A. Tolhurst, "D” (F), promoted Corporal, 11-7-31. I - " ' ■ " J...... H. G. HAMILTON,— ______LLOYDS BANK (Late FREND & SO N ). LIMITED WINE MERCHANT, 6 PALL MALL, S.W. 1. (ESTABLISHED 1739)

This Branch of Lloyds Bank, in which is 26 St. George’s Street, incorporated the business of Messrs. COX & Co., Army and Royal Air Force Agents, is specially CANTERBURY. adapted to meet the banking requirements of Telephone : 148 Canterbury. Officers and Cadets.

RETIRED PAY AND PENSIONS. All classes of Retired Pay & Pensions collect­ Ha l k s w o r t h W h e e l e r ed and credited to customers’ accounts.

SPECIAL DEPARTMENTS ARE OPEN AT THIS OFFICE I PHOTOGRAPHER which deal particularly with the following classes of business.: I Outdoor OPERATOR always available 1. Colonial and Foreign. 2. Stock Exchange. 3. Insurance: Life, Fire, Accident, &c. for 4. Preparation of returns and recovery of MILITARY GROUPS Income Tax. 4 HEAD OFFICE: LONDON, E.C.3. STUDIO - .. • - - J 125 SANDGATE ROAD - FOLKESTONE THE DRAGON 329

Drills actually start again early in September, and and it consists almost entirely of furniture making, in the meantime all those that can should look out for but on occasions he goes into large houses and shops to the husky recruit to bring along with him. fix the hard wood panelling and shop fittings made by At the time of writing these notes we are recovering him. from the previous day's outing to Canterbury to attend Cabinet Making demands skill with tools and a man once more the annual Battalion Concentration for the must possess the ability to work cleanly and neatly in Regimental Service at the Cathedral. hard wood. The methods of construction differ from This seems to improve every year and although we joinery, but the skill required is very much the same. must not forget the real reason for our attending, it is Machinery has lowered the general standard of crafts­ something to look forward to, in seeing all those old manship in the present day, but some firms are again faces, and refreshing the memory of the happy times developing hand-made work along the traditional lines. one has had.' One who possesses the aptitude for wood work and Our numbers were small as compared with other the use of keen-edged tools soon makes progress at the years and it is to be hoped that, those that went woodworking trades, but the difference between them yesterday will advertise the fact that it was to them a should be realized. A man may make a first-rate perfect day’s outing (forgetting, of course, the rain) carpenter, but a very poor joiner or cabinet maker and and so when next year comes along those numbers vice versa. will be doubled. Nowadays much of the work hitherto done patiently Ramsgate Drill Hall at the moment is surrounded by hand is produced by machinery—notably we have by scaffolding and no doubt the Sgt.-Instructor will machine-made doors, windows and furniture—so that be grateful to the contractor when he at last takes it in many joinery and cabinet-making works the bench down and clears his traps away. The reason for all this hands are little more than assemblers. It follows is to enlarge the drill hall and enable us to have a little that apprentices in such works are often robbed by, more space f6r drill, and it must be said that it is also the machine of good and necessary practice. greatly improving the look of the place. At the Vocational Training Centres things are Possibly next month there will be much to write different. Productiveness takes second place to train­ about and so we leave you until then. ing and although machinery is in use it is used only to B u s y . save unnecessary labour. Most of the work is hand- wrought by the student so that by gaining skill with his tools and co-ordinating hand and brain, he can later Vocational Training. use the machine as a servant rather than slave under The Woodworking Trades. its mastery. Ca r p e n t e r , J o in e r , Ca b in e t M a k e r . .'J’O the majority of individuals the Woodworking Trades are the most interesting and attractive H e a t in g a n d D o m e st ic E n g in e e r in g . of the constructional trades and generally are con­ A new Vocational Course in the above subject has sidered the most important. just been opened as, with the tremendous development In mpdem industry the general term " Carpentry in central heating the trade of Heating and Domestic and Joinery " is commonly used to cover all the wood­ Engineering has become one of the most important in working operations connected with the building trade industry. and Cabinet Making is the general term applied to the It embraces many branches of engineering and offers making of furniture. the congenial employment of the Engineer without In the country districts Carpentry and Joinery the disadvantages of other trades. Unlike most trades frequently go hand in hand, a craftsman often being this one is usually very busy during the winter months able to work as either a carpenter or joiner, but in most and the initial outlay for a kit of tools is only a few large towns men generally keep to one section or the shillings. other. Although carpentry is akin to joinery there is This modern industry originated from one of the a great deal of difference between the two. The oldest crafts of the present day, namely, “ Plumbing," carpenter works on the construction of the building and consists chiefly of the installation of Heating, and moves from building to building as required, while Ventilating and Hot Water Systems. the joiner remains in the workshop at the builder’s This work was taken up as a speciality by men who works or the joinery factory and prepares the various foresaw there was room for advancement and scope fittings which the carpenter fixes. in it and with its development it has become separate A joiner’s work consists mainly of making all the and distinct from Plumbing except perhaps in country wooden fittings required in the construction and fitting districts where you still find the Plumber and Hot up of buildings, houses, shops, etc. These consist of Water Fitter. such items as doors, door frames, sashes, sash frames, The trade is in its infancy and the young man who dressers, cupboards, mantelpieces, show cases, stair­ takes up this trade has great possibilities in front of cases and fixtures of all kinds. The carpenter fixes him as in addition to the normal work of installing these in the buildings after he has assisted with his heating and hot water systems there are many branches part of the construction. His work on the building to the trade in which he can specialise. It is usual to lasts almost from start to finish. As the building goes commence as a Pipe Fitter and with work and study up he puts in the joists, partitions, roof timbers, etc., develop into a fully-fledged Heating and Domestic and then when the roof is on he fixes the stairs, floors, Engineer. doors, sashes, cupboards, dressers, skirtling, etc. In most of the Electrical Factories Pipe Benders are Whereas the work of the joiner calls for greater continually employed engaged on nothing else but neatness and skill in finishing than that of the carpenter pipe bending or steel conduit bending. It is here that the latter’s work requires a sound knowledge of con­ the Fitter can bring out to his full extent the art of struction. Each class of work is highly skilled and the pipe bending. From an outsider’s point of view the young man in training should see that he gets experience work appears to be very simple. This is not the case of both carpentry and joinery, as this will enable him by any means, but like most difficult things it is to discover which of the two he is most fitted for. The moderately easy to the man who is out to master it work entails the skilful use of tools and familiarity with when he is shown “ how.” timbers. Some Pipe Fitters are nick-named " Pipe A Cabinet Maker has a somewhat similar job to the Stranglers ” and this is certainly a fitting name for them Joiner. He also does most of his work in the workshop as some of the work they produce is marvellous to behold. 328 THE DRAGON

The final of the George Porter Billiard Handicap Cup was played off ori 30th July, when Sgt. Wickham 4th Battalion. beat C.Q.M.S. Gibson by 250 to 178. After presenting the Cup to the winner the R.S.M. also presented each of the finalists with medals as a rp H IS month we have souvenir of the occasion. been visited by our Hearty congratulations to Sgt. and Mrs. Wickham Brigade Commander, Col. •on their marriage. The members presented them with Crossman, who visited Can­ a suitable gift coupled with our best wishes. terbury, Margate, ■ : Rams­ During Canterbury Cricket Week the 2nd Battalion Band stayed at the Depot, and we enjoyed the musical gate, Dover and Folkestone programmes given at both the Cricket Ground and Drill Halls. Beyond this on the Dane John. There is no doubt about the great there has been very little popularity of the 2nd Battalion Band. military activity in the area. It was good to see so many of the Past and Present in attendance for the Annual Memorial Service on the We were, glad to see 16th August and the Cathedral was once again packed a number of our officers to its utmost capacity. at the Buffs Cricket Week Owing to the bad weather conditions the cricket Tent. Their names will match arranged for the afternoon could not be played on the Cricket Ground. It was therefore held on the doubtless be included else­ Barrack Square, where the 2nd Battalion Band also where, so we will not repeat gave us some delightful music. them in these notes. The members were " A t Home" to Tea to Past- Members at our tent on 17th August during Depot We extend our congratulations to two Cricket Week, but the bad weather must once more be of our late officers, Captains Whitfield and blamed for the small gathering. Coote, on being chosen to play in the Regimental Our heartfelt sympathy is tendered to Sgt. H. Crump and relatives on the sad death of his wife at Cricket Team at the Depot next week. We Rangoon. wish them every success and many runs. Corporals’ Room. We noticed that Mr. Green made an excellent policeman in the Old Stagers' per­ On August 10th the Corporals had their Annual Outing. Arrangements had been made to go to South- formance “ The Sign on the, Door.” This end by Steamboat from Herne Bay, but, unfortunately, must be one of the first occasions when the everything had to be altered at the last minute through 4th Battalion has been represented at the the sailing of the boat being cancelled. Old Stagers. .. Instead, a circular tour was arranged v iz. : Canter­ bury — Herne Bay — Margate— Ramsgate — Deal — Our Commanding Officer and Mr. Green, Margate;—Canterbury. Most of the time was spent at Margate and Ramsgate. also Captain Cremer were to be seen taking We left Canterbury at 7.30 a.m. and arrived back part in the Pilgrims of Canterbury during again at 11 p.m. after having a very good day with the Hospital Week. The weather was most glorious weather. unkindly, but the participants, appeared to E/Cpl. Rose has arrived back from the School of Education and it is rumoured that he has to take an be thoroughly enjoying themselves swimming extra large size in caps now ? ? ? - round the Canterbury thoroughfares/ One of o.ur Notabilities was found to be missing the other day and after a long search was eventually found Next month we are having our Annual “ Studying form ” on the County Cricket ground. Shooting Competitions on the Teynham Range What did you learn, “ Sid.” ? ? on September 13th. The Coronation and We are still hoping to give the Sergeants a return Divisional Cup will be fired for, also the Officers’ cricket match so we shall come along to you, “ Sid,” Annual Competition. May We suggest a little for information on how to hold a Bat and “ Spin ” a ball. practice in rapid fire for the officers before­ At present Canterbury Carnival Week is in full swing hand ? Last year we heard—well, perhaps and, as usual the Corporals are doing their bit as stall­ it’s better left unsaid, but rifles do seem to holders, etc. Cpls. Hills, George and Fletcher are running two get jammed so easily ! popular stalls at the Fete and incidentally have very J.R.W, nearly lost their voices shouting. h/Cpl. Eley is in the procession and his disguise is so good that “ certain ” people could not recognize him. That's something “A” Company. worth knowing, is'nt it “ Spud ” ? ? The only thing that is not popular at present is the Here we are once again, but although nothing has weather and the least said about this the better. been heard of the Company, we are still very much alive. By now all are wondering whether we did have all N ovice. the bad weather at camp as it has’nt improved itself at all, and the summer seems to have been as bad as it NOTICE. Unmounted copies of the could be. ' : photograph of the Luncheon on August Just at present we are on a slack time as regards 16th,; can be obtained from Mr. Sinclair, drills, this district being very busy with those holiday seekers who have braved the elements and are seeking 101 Northgate Street, Canterbury, price the sea air and a blue sky, to enable them to carry on 2/6 each. for another year. T H E D R A G O N 327

Depot Team.

The Depot helped in several ways. In the During Cricket Week we saw the faces of " Chaucer’s Canterbury Pilgrims ” procession many old friends whose names are, no doubt, through the city, which took place on August chronicled in the review of the week. The 12th and 14th, we were represented by Dieut. Colonel of the Regiment was also over for the Lynden-Bell, Sgt. Sivers, Cpl. Bills and E/Cpl. Memorial Service on August 16th and to Eley. This event was much appreciated in welcome The Queen’s Own cricket team on the city and we are informed that the sight the 19th. of the thirty-four characters from “ Chaucer’s Major-General F. J. Duncan came down to Tales ” riding in costumes up the High Street enlist his son as a recruit, an event which has and into the Precincts caused the citizens to many significant points to-day. open their purses to the extent of £100 or more. Other visitors whom we were pleased to At the Fun Fair on the football ground, see are :—Major-General Sir Bertram Boyce, stalls were run with success by Sgt. Cross Mr. John Crean of The Queen’s Own Rifles of and Cpls. George, Plills and Fletcher. The Canada, General Sir Webb Gillman, Brigadier- Depot gymnastic display team under C.S.M.I. General Whitacre Allen, Brigadier McCulloch Wright gave a performance to a meagre of the Senior Officers’ School, and our visiting audience in the rain. Bad weather may damp cricket teams—the Band of Brothers, The the enthusiasm of spectators, but nothing is Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment so disheartening to us as a damp and scanty and the East Kent Ramblers. “ gate.” Better advertising and a roofed building might produce better results next time. Sergeants’ Mess. The fourth and last week, given over to We have to gratefully thank the Colonel of the Regimental Cricket, is now in full downpour ! Regiment for the abundant supply of Heather he sent It is the unwritten law of us literary experts to us during the month. that we never mention the weather, birt some On 27th July we held a cricket fixture with the comment is surely called for this month ! R.A.P.C., Canterbury, and managed a win. The law must be broken. The editorial diary R.S.M. Stewart recently paid us another visit. He shews that Tuesday, August 4th was fine and is at present on leave from the West Coast to where he returns on 2nd September for his fifth tour out there. sunn}^ : since then we have had no other. We heartily congratulate him and Mrs. Stewart on their It has rained on every day for the last fort­ marriage and wish them both the best of luck. night and in addition a biting westerly wind L/Sgt. King left us on 30th July to rejoin the 2nd has buffetted us. Battalion on completion of tour of duty here. 326 THE DRAGON

During our second day’s march we did a small scheme, finally arriving at Bittlestone golf course. But we hadn’t been here long before we had a downpour of rain, but our Company Commander Beneath Bell Harry. was good enough to obtain shelter for us in a disused holiday camp. Here we were able to dry our clothes in readiness 'for our return to barracks the following day, and here, thank goodness, we were blessed r PHlS has been a with fine weather. On July 21st we played the first round of the Inter-Company month of four Cricket Championship, our opponents being “A” Company. Here weeks, but they have, Eieut. Harwood gave us. a sparkling display of batting, scoring 159 out of our total of 287. We ran out winners by 144 runs, complete nevertheless, been no scores being :— ordinary weeks. First “C” C o m p a n y . “A ” Company. there was the Festival Et. Harwood, c Tuff, b Cartcrl59 Bt. Tuff, b Bird...... 75 E/Sgt. Jackman, c and b Tuff.. 4 Bt. Kenward, c and b Belson... 2 Week, which was cen­ Bt. Craddock, c and b Rowe.... 35 Capt. Rowe, b Fox...... 5 Cpl. Hobson, lbw, b Rowe...... 1 McGinley, b Bird...... 3 tred on the Cathedral. B/Cpl. Fox, b Tuff...... 2 B/Cpl. Jolley, e Brigstoek, b Fox 0 Music in the Cloisters B/Cpl. Brigstoek, lbw, b McGinley 3 Darlow, st Brigstoek, b Bird... 6 Sgt. Smith, b Rowe...... 0 Capt. Tukc, b Craddock...... 9 by the B.B.C. Orches- Belson, b Darlow...... 35 B/Cpl. Carter, c Belson, b Bird 5 Bird, b Kenward...... 8 Bcvan, c Fox, b Hobson!...... 12 stra, violin recitals in Cpl. Bee, b Kenward...... 7 McBride, not out...... 12 the Cathedral by Miss Druggett, not out...... 0 B/Cpl. Oxford, c Bird, b Hobson 3 Extras...... 33 Extras...... 11 d’Aranvi, and lectures and meetings com­ Total...... 287 Total...... 143 prised the main attrac­ Bowling Analysis : tions of the Festival, “C” Company.—Bt. TufT, 2 for 24 ; Bt. Kenward, 2 for 28 ; Capt. Rowe, 3 for 12. which culminated in “ American Day ” on “A” Company.—Belson, 1 for 30 ; B/Cpl. Fox, 2 for 19 ; Bird, which all Americans on holiday or business 4 for 10 ; Bt. Craddock, 1 for 11 ; Cpl. Hobson, 2 for 2. July 31st saw another exodus of leave parties, our Commanding in England were invited to attend a vService Officer granting four days to those available, and there was very few of Thanksgiving. The Archbishop gave an in the company who were unable to have a well-earned rest. address. There were three processions— The Inter-Company Relay Race takes place on August 13th and, if possible, two other relays will be staged for that evening, in which Ambassadorial, Mayoral and Archiepiscopal. “C” Company will oppose the rest, and by the appearances of the teams there should be some interesting running. In the first-named were the American Am­ ' We welcome to the company six men of the draft from the Depot bassador’s representatives and officers from that joined us on July 29th and hope they will soon get settled down and make themselves happv. the American Army and Navy, accompanied B.A.T.E. by officers of equivalent rank in our Royal Navy and Army. Bt.-Eieut.-Colonel Thomson Machine Gun Company. and Eieut. Eynden-Bell were our representatives In the way of cricket during the month we have done very little. at this unique assembly. Wc played one match against “B” Company during our “ rest ” on the three days’ march. This match provided quite a good evening’s The next week was devoted to cricket enjoyment as well as excitement.' The scores cannot be traced at the moment. However, if I remember rightly the game finished something in the time-honoured way. The weakness like this :—“M.G.” Company : first innings 30 all out, second innings 112 all o u t; “B” Company : first innings 117 all out, secondinnings, 24 of Somerset spoilt the first match by finishing all out, leaving us the winners by one perfectly good run. it too soon so that there was no cricket on The next match was just a “ Danker ” match against “C” Company which we won without an effort, getting “C” Company out for the small the Tuesday. Rain spoilt the second match total of 25 and ourselves scoring well over the 100 mark. and “ Radies’ Day ” was a fiasco everywhere However, these small games have enabled us to pick a fairly good cricket team to represent us in the Harris Shield match against “13” except in the Regimental tent, where a large Company on Monday, August 10th, and although we do not entertain number of guests were entertained. The week any hopes of winning the cricket, wc shall give them equally as good as they give us. However, who will win remains to be seen. Our is no doubt described in full elsewhere in team will be :—Eieuts. Connolly and Fcarnside-Speed, E/Sgts. Newell The Dragon, and Bartlett, E/Cpls. Roser, Milne, Cowley and Castle, Eieut. F. W. B. so we will pass on to the third Parry, Ptes. Burton and Keeler, and twelfth man B/Cpl. Beech. of our weeks, dedicated to Carnival in aid of We congratulate B/Sgt. Good, E/Cpls. Chapman and Cowley, and Cpl. Tracey, our relay team, on winning the open mile relay race at the the Kent and Canterbury Hospital. Manchester’s Battalion Sports. Good show, Gunners ! please do the same in the Inter-Company Relay Race next Thursday. Young Baldy (Charlie) has just returned from his course (loaf) with safety angles, etc., written all over his pretty face. When 2nd Battalion—continued. I questioned him as to what sort of a time he had, he said “ It was wonderful.” “M.G.” Company and “B” Company. An account of this match will It seems that as soon as we. get one of the family back, another be seen at the beginning of these notes. On the morning of the 23rd one leaves us. Our renowned Technical Sergeant, namely Sacco, we struck camp and marched out for our return to barracks. During leaves us shortly to attend a Small Arms Refresher Course at the this march an encounter battle between the remainder of the battalion S.A.S., Itytlie Wing, prior to joining a rifle company when the annual and our party took place, “M.G.” Company, “B” Company and the turnover comes. If such is the case, we are losing our crack goalkeeper. Signals driving the enemy towards barracks, which wc reached about In our last notes mention, was made of a "three days’ company 2 p.m. In a way we were glad to return, though I think everyone march. Wc were very lucky indeed over the weather which kept enjoyed themselves during this period. fine the whole time that we were out. The company, with a detach­ A Searchlight Tattoo was held at Folkestone on the 7tli and 8th ment from the Signal Section, paraded at 3 a.m. on July 21st and August in which all units of the Shorncliffe Garrison took part, our marched out by platoons to their respective positions, which were held company being selected from the battalion for a machine gun display. till about 10 a.m. Each platoon had their own breakfast rations and This display included limber driving through a series of obstacles, cooked them in the open. I t reminded us all of the pictures one sees dismantling the limbers to get them through a narrow gap in a fence, in the daily papers of hiking parties preparing their meals. If Nos. mounting the guns and bringing them into action, and a “ death ride ” 13 atid 15 Platoons were of the same opinion as No. 14 Platoon, every­ out of action. The show was very well carried out and everything one enjoyed this unusual turn-out on training. About 9 a.m., “B” went off smoothly. Company joined us and operated with us during the remaining time The Promotion Examination over, the N.C.O.’s are once again of the three days. We arrived at Parsonage Farm, North Elham, back to normal duties, but as no results have been published at the not long after mid-day and proceeded to make ourselves comfortable time of submitting these notes, I cannot say who had the good fortune for our stay there. On the 22nd we did a small scheme during the to pass the examination. morning, and in the evening a cricket match was played between Crankhandle. THE DRAGON 325

are out, only giving in for want of light, or much- Aldershot. We wonder if he will introduce any new needed refreshments. Deck-chairs are placed out ideas ; being so full of ideas as he is, we fully expect for the convenience of critics and spectators, and a a bombshell. waiter who knows a short cut to the bar is always The Glosters, " our sons,” are at Camp close and handy. handy, but owing to an infectious disease we have been Members are also taking full advantage of being so unable to entertain them as we should have liked to near to the sea, there being a short cut by the quarters have done. which leads direct to the sea-front, thus making Cpl. Goatley has left for the Army Reserve and with mackintosh bathing possible. De-Vrooinfe has actually him goes our right-back, and as football is about to been called at 5 a.m., so as to be able- to get into the commence we are on the look-out for a substitute. water before it got dirty, and as no young ladies are Best of luck, Fred, keep in touch with us if you can; about at that time, the fascination of the. water itself we shall always welcome a line from you. must be great indeed. Cpl. Griggs has been selected to undergo an We offer our heartiest congratulations to " Fiddler ” Instructors' Course at the School of Signals, Catterick, and Mrs. Duffy on the birth of their daughter on the and we expect what we do expect, or in other words 24th of July. ' Also to C.Q.M.S. and Mrs. Carvell on the “ we shall see what we shall see.” addition to their family of a son, on the 1st of August L/Cpl. Taylor, who has been Wine Corporal in the (good old one in seventeen). Officers’ Mess for a long time, is shortly going to the C.S.M. MacWalter has returned from his Machine Army Reserve, but we may have a little more to say Gun Course at Netheravon and brought back with him of him at a later date. a " D.” As one knows, the elusive “ Distinguished ” On P a r a d e. is only obtained through sheer hard '‘ graft,” especially Instructor: (1) “ How much room are you allowed to one who had little preparation previous to the actual in the ranks ? ” course. He is probably leaving us soap., to go on the Instructed : " Two inches ” {loud explosion). Territorial Staff, so our loss is their gain, for however A. (2) “ Which foot do you give the Command " Halt " good they are at musketry he will find some way to on in quick time ? ” improvement. A : " Opposite to slow time, Sir” (Cheers). IS IT TRUE ? Mo n ty . That silent drill movements are in vogue, and that Dingers ” received his tuition of presenting from the order from a. drill book “A” Company. now in the Military Museum ? On July 21st we played “C” Company in the Inter-Company That Wass’ “ London Bags ” were cut in mistake for beach pyjamas Cricket Teague. Although the scores are very much against us, it and that the bottoms will get frayed when he stoops ? does not in any way mean that our side did not play a good game. That if our clerk to the noble order of the C.R.A. were to take a I should think the scores were pretty well a record for company cricket. tip from “ Steve ” and get things over on the first of the month, all It was a glorious afternoon (quite a change, I’m sure), and “C” Company would be merry and bright ? . batted first, putting up a score of 287. Our men fielded very well, That “ Fiddler Duffy ” is becoming a “ road-hog ” on his miniature but made a couple of costly mistakes in giving Pte. Harwood two lives ; “ chugger ” and can now arrive in time for parade ? he eventually went on to make 159. Just after the tea interval we went T o u ch sto n e. in and put up a score of 143, thereby losing by 144. Our scores were as follows :— Mr. Tuff...... 75 Mr. Kenwood...... 2 Corporals’ Room. Capt. Rowe...... -...... 5 McGinley...... 3 July went by rather quietly as regards sport, except Lieut. Solley...... 0 for the fact that we now have our own Tennis Court Darlow...... 6 and equipment. L/Cpl. Banks, of The Drums, is in Captain Tuke...... 9 Lieut. Carter...... 5 charge of this and has, with others, put in a considerable Bevan...... 12 amount of practice, his ultimate aim being------? McBride...... 12 . The Examination for Lance-Corporals to Corporals Lieut. A tford...... 3 and Corporals to Sergeants, took place on the 30th and Extras.-...... 11 31st and we are now anxiously awaiting the result. T otal...... 143 We take this opportunity of thanking the R.S.M. and Since then we have had two scratch games, losing again to “C” • his willing band of helpers for all the very valuable tips Company, but beating the Signal Section. they gave whilst we were swatting up for the exam. * A few new faces are to be seen in the company—Pte. McBride from Headquarter Wing and seven recruits from the Depot. We give them We welcome those N.C.O.’s of the 1st Battalion a hearty welcome. who are attached to us pending embarkation in the near We are sorry to hear that Mr. Tuff is leaving us to take over our future and hope their stay will be a happy one. Signal Section. He will be a great loss to the company, but may good Amongst them is Cpl. Priestley who is a very valuable luck go with him. This is all now, but in our next issue I hope to be able to let our asset as far as entertaining goes ; he gives us some good readers know what public duties in London are like. items on the piano and the ukelele. I nk P ot. Cpls. Sirett and Cunningham are back with us once more from hospital, as also Cpl. Go wen from a Gas Course, “G” Company. The result of this has not come through yet. Our company march took place on July 17th to 19th and, unfortun­ ately, rain took the edge off a very interesting and enjoyable trek. Cpl. Toms has taken on another and important duty, The first day found us at the village of Mersham. We got a viz., the duties of a husband. Should it be necessary, preliminary damping here, but it dried up enough for us to play the - Tommo, you’ll always have the drum as an aid to drown village a game of cricket. This took place on the village green, the scores being any squalls or even to amuse any little ones you may “ C” Company. Mersham. care to purchase later on. L/Sgt. Jackman, c and b Griggs 2 R. R. Russell, b Belson...... 12 We might add that we still have a few bachelor Cpl. Hobson, b Pilgrim...... 0 C. Griggs, c and b Fox...... 2 L t. Craddock, b Russell...... 23 T. Crust, c and b Fox...... 0 Corporals left, but the number is gradually diminish­ L/Cpl. Brigstock, b Griggs...... 1 G. Clee, b Belson...... 15 ing. Lt. Harwood, c and b Russell.. 10 F. Apps, c and b Belson...... 3 Cpl. Pudney leaves us for Hounslow for a vocational Lt. Airy, b Griggs...... 0 S. Griggs, b Bird...... 0 Sgt. Smith, b Russell...... 0 R. Ladd, c and b Belson...... 3 course at the end of the month. We all wish him the L/Cpl. Fox, not out...... 1 W. Cullen, c Craddock, b Bird 0 best of luck and hope he jumps into a job as soon as his Belson, c and b Griggs.'...... 6 S. Nutlay, b Belson...... 0 Colour Service expires. Clarke, b Griggs...... 0 Pilgrim, not out...... 0 Very shortly we shall have L/Cpl. Foster back with Bird, c and b Russell...... 3 S. Breadon, lbw, b Bird...... 1 us, fresh from the mysteries of a Mince Roll Course at Total...... ’...... 47 T otal...... 36 324 THE DRAGON

The One Mile was the next event, the teams being : 2nd Battalion The Buffs v . The Sherwood C.A.C.—Dr. Pooley (Depot), Pte. Good (Depot), Mr. F o r e ste r s . Johnson. 2nd Battalion.—B/Sgt. Trinkwon, B/Cpl. O'Connor, B/Cpl. Marsh. Played on 23rd J uly. Result: Won by 11 runs. Sgt. Trinkwon was content to let Pooley make the The Buffs. The Sherwood Foresters. 2/Lt. C. R. Tuff, b Allen...... 5 Capt. Allen, lbw, b Walker...... 35 pace for the first two laps. These two were rather 2/Lt. G. L. Walker, b Allen..... S Cpl. Allen, c Brigstock, drawing away from the remainder. Then came B/Cpls. Lt. Connolly, c Drury, b b Connolly...... 15 O’Connor and Marsh, followed by Good and Johnson. Wilkinson...... 3 C.S.M. Sutton, b Connolly...... 2 Lt. Reeves, b Wilkinson...... 19 Lt. Wilkinson, b Fox...... 25 After two laps Sgt. Trinkwon took the lead and in­ Sgt. Watts, c and b Allen...... 1 Lt. Denison, b Fox...... 2 creased it to win easily. Dr. Pooley was a good second. 2/Lt. Craddock, c Allen, b Drury 40 Major Robinson, b Walker...... 5 B/Cpl. O’Connor just beat B/Cpl. Marsh for third place. 2/Lt. Kenwood, b Wilkinson.... 3 Major Shawcross, b Fox...... 0 Time of winners 4 mins. 51 4/5 secs. Pte. Hammond, c and b Allen.. 2 Lt. Clarke, c Reeves, b Fox..... 2 L/Cpl. Vincent, run out...... 4 C.S.M. Bolling, b Walker...... 0 The next event on the programme was the Bong L/Cpl. Fox, c Allen, b Drury.... 0 Bdm. Latham, c Brigstock, b Jump. Team C.A.C.—Mr. F. Phillips, Mr. Bouch. L/Cpl. Brigstock, not out...... 1 Fox...... 0 2nd Battalion.—B/Cpl. Vincent, Pte. Marsden. Sgt. Drury, not out...... 0 Result:—1st: B/Cpl. Vincent, 19 ft. 11 ins. ; 2nd : Extras...... 20 Extras...... 6 Pte. Marsden, 18 ft. 1 in. ; 3rd: Mr. F. Phillips, Total...... 103 Total...... 92 17 ft. 3 ins. One Mile Medley Relay.—C.A.C.—Mr. Andrews, Mr. F. Phillips, Mr. Bouch, Mr. J . Kerridge; 2nd Battalion.—Pte. Reekie, Pte. Baker, 2nd/Bieut. R. W. 2nd Battalion The Buffs v . Depot The Buffs. Craddock, Pte. Belson. This proved a good and well-contested event, C.A.C. Played on July 28th. Result: Bost .by 82 runs. winning in the end by about 30 yards. I suppose a 2nd Battalion The Buffs. Depot The Buffs. 2/Lt. Tuff, lbw, b Gilford...... 8 Lt. Mount, c Walker, b Tuff... 30 certain amount of blame for this defeat rests with the Sgt. Jackman, run out...... 5 Dr. Hudson, c Fox, b Tuff...... 27 writer. It was only intended to turn out a team that Sgt. Moore, c Mount, b Dawson 17 2/T(t. Gilford, c Hammond, b would have to run hard to win. I am afraid our 2/Lt. Craddock, b Gilford...... 0 Walker...... 58 2/Lt. Walker, b Gilford...... 28 Col. Paynter, b Sparkes...... 9 visitors were under-estimated here. At the end of the Pte. Sparkes, b Wickham...... 0 Lt. King, c Sparkes, b Jack..... 19 second 220 yard stage our team were about 10 yards Lt. Nicholson, b Wickham.....‘.. 11 Capt. Willowes, c Tuff, b Jack 16 behind. Bieut. Craddock soon made short work of this Pte. Jack, b Gilford...... 3 C.S.M. Williams, b Jack...... 0 2/Lt. Hill, c and b Mount...... 0 Capt. Hammond Davies, not out 1 lead, being able to give Belson about 20 yards start Pte. Hammond, not out...... 2 Sgt. Wickham 1 for the last (880 yards) stage. Knowing Kerridge of L/Cpl. Fox, st Williams, b Pte. Dawson > Did not bat. old, I knew this lead was not sufficient. Belson did one Mount...... ’ 7 C.Q.M.S. Gibspn J good lap, then rather faded away. Yes, a man must Extras...... 5 Extras...... •...... 8 be well trained to run a half-mile at any speed. Total...... 86 Total...... 168 Time of winning team :—3 mins. 54 2/5 secs. The last event was the Three Miles, teams being :— C.A.C.—Dr. Pooley, Mr. Boughton, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Gerry; 2nd Battalion.—B/Cpl. Hurley, B/Cpl. Fox, Pte. Insole. 'Sergeants’ Mess. B/Cpl. Hurley went straight into the lead at his usual pace. Although he set up quite a good time, Having risked a possible action by a " Common he has had better times on the same track. Dr. Pooley Informer,” for the Sunday Observance Society, a very ran very well indeed. B/Cpl. Fox ran a very good successful social evening was held in the Mess on J uly three miles. Time : 17 mins. 2 secs. Pte. Insole ran 19th. There was a good attendance, and I was pleased well to finish 4th in 17 mins. 19 secs. to note that there were quite a few honorary members lsf (3 pts.) 2nd (2 pts.) 3rd (1 pi.) Points obtained. of the Past and Present Association mingled with our Event. Club. Club. Club. C.A.C. Buffs. own families. 100 yards ... Buffs Buffs C.A.C. 1 5 880 yards ...... Buffs C.A.C. Buffs 2 4 The first item was a pianoforte entertainment by a 220 y ard s...... C.A.C. Buffs Buffs 3 3 young battalion musician, followed by a song -by Sgt. High Jump C.A.C. C.A.C. - Buffs 5 1 Smith, our Mess “ Caruso.” 440 yards ... Buffs C.A.C. Buffs 2 4 One Mile ... Buffs C.A.C. Buffs 2 4 Our Battalion “ Scalp Hunter,” Mr. Tom Moore, Long Jump Buffs Buffs C.A.C. 1 5 then demonstrated how the ivories should be rattled. Mile Medley Relay C.A.C. Buffs 2 0 The following artistes contributed to the remainder Three Miles Buffs C.A.C. Buffs . 2 4 of the programme :— Total points ... 20 30 Mrs. Buxton, Song; Miss Hollins, Song; Drm.- A.V.O. Major Duffy, Comic Song; Mr. Willing, Song; Mr. Doulton, Song; Mr. Beggett, Pianoforte Solo. Cricket. The radio-gramophone also provided us with good 2nd Battalion The Buffs v . ” De Flamingo’s.” music during the interval. .Played on 18th July. Result : Drawn. The R.S.M., who acted in the capacity of announcer, The Flamingoe’s. The Buffs. host, and chief persuader, enlightened us to the fact that A. F. Van Manen, ran out...... 47 2/Lt. C. R.Tuff, not out...... 22 we had among us Mr. Pearson, the West Bromwich M. Venny, c and b Gilford...... 11 2/r,t. G. L- Walker, not out.... 8 Albion goal-keeper. He mentioned how the team’s F. Wunden, b Gilford...... 5 Lt. J. G. Nicholson P. Labouclicre, lbw, b Walker 5 2/Lt. N. R. Reeves progress had been closely watched by all and con­ P. C. East, b Walker...... 7 Sgt. Watts gratulated him on his team’s attainments. J. Van de Berg, not out...... 6 Sgt. Moore Did not The R.S.M. has himself acted as goal-keeper to our P. V. Heck, c Reeves, b Gilford 0 Capt. Willowes bat. C. Bakker, b Gilford...... 0 I/t.-Col. Crookenden V Rain Mess team, against the Officers, etc., in the past, but J. V. Van Gruffen, c Reeves, b Lt. Williams stopped I won’t commit myself in saying that a few tips were Gilford...... 0 2/I,t. Gilford play. passed over. F. Bok, lbw, b Gilford...... 5 Pte. Hammond F. A. Davidson, c and b Gilford 1 L/Cpl. Vincent The entertainment concluded at 11 p.m. and I am A. Fokker, run out.,...... ■.... 1 sure that in the future they will be regular occurrences. Extras...... 13 Extras.. 18 The Shomcliffe air, apparently, has a very bracing Total.. 101 Total. 48 effect, for practically every evening our tennis experts THE DRAGON 323

On the 13th the Annual Inter-Company The first event was the 100 yards, Canterbury being represented by :—Mr. Andrews, Mr.. F. Phillips, Mr. Two Mile Relay Race was held and won by Beer; 2nd Battalion by 2/Lieut. R. W. Craddock, “C” Company. In a subsequent Four Mile L/Sgt. Good and L/Cpl. Chapman. Relay, a combined battalion team tackled It is as well to mention -that quite a strong following “C” Company and proved too strong for the wind was blowing. It was rather a pity that the com­ petitors did not get away to a good start. • Of course, champions. these sprinters are always a very eager lot, some get over Polo is a game one does not think of a great anxious and often put the starter out of his stride. deal in England, regarding it as beyond the Anyway, Andrews of the C.A.C. still sat in his holes. resources of most people. Actually though, Sgt. Good rather got away ; this caused Mr. Craddock to pull out his best to win by inches in 10 secs., Sgt. it can be played cheaper in England than in Good being second and Mr. Beer third. India and at about the same cost as in Gibraltar. Following this event came the 880 yards. C.A.C. One has only to look at the prices of ponies was represented by Mr. J. Kerridge, Mr.'Baker, Mr. realised, at Tattersall’s to prove the truth of Gerry ; 2nd Battalion by C.S.M. Ongley, L/Sgt. Trink- won, Pte. Bong. this. In India it is impossible, unless one This was what might be called an orderly start. is exceptionally lucky, to buy a made and Starter and starters working in co-operation with each found pony for less than Rs. 1,300, which is other. Sgt. Trinkwon was soon in the lead, followed by equivalent to £100. A glance at Tattersall’s Mr. Kerridge. After the second bend C.S.M. Ongley lists wilt shew ponies going at less than half got up into second place. Trinkwon was running a good race and sure to make good time, C.S.M. Ongley this. It seems a pity then that polo is not was trying to hang on, but the pace was a little too more universally popular at home amongst much; Kerridge came into second place about 100 infantry regiments. In a country like East yards from the finish. Evidently by the shouts of the Kent these same ponies would be admirably spectators, Bong was having a battle with the other two C.A.C. men for fourth place, which he obtained suited for the woodland hunting that prevails. in the end. Winner’s time : 2 mins. 9£ secs. Won At the beginning of August the Shorncliffe by about 10 yards ; 2nd and 3rd same distance. Polo Club held a tournament at Hawkinge in 220 yards came next. This had to be run round the which seven teams took part. Eieut.-Colonel track; being five laps to the mile, corners are rather sharp for fast racing. Crookenden, our sole representative, was play­ C.A.C. had running :—Andrews, F. Phillips, Beer; ing number three for Terlingham Farm, which 2nd Battalion :—Pte. Baker, “H.Q.,” L/Cpl. Cowley, won the subsidiary, the Colonel scoring five Pte. C. Burgess. L/Cpl. Spence should have been in out of their seven goals. Those who played this race, also the relay, but owing to a strained muscle was resting. in Gibraltar will remember him as the back­ Result:—1st: Andrews ; 2nd : Cowley ; 3rd : Baker. bone of the defence and the spearhead of the Time : 24f secs. attack of the battalion side that got into the Then came the High Jump. I was rather pleased to final in our last season there. know that the C.A.C. had two good jumpers. I really tuink there is something in being able to jump 5 ft. 4 Major Willis Cole, 3rd Hussars, called on ins. Perhaps more men will take up this event in the the Regiment not long ago and presented future, having witnessed a good performance. us with a photo of members of the Regiment C.A.C. had jumping :—Mr. Reed and Mr. Beer; in costumes for the Military Tournament 2nd Battalion had:—L/Cpl. Vincent and Pte. Jordan. of 1895 when The Buffs and the 3rd Hussars Pte. Jordan came out after clearing 4 ft. 10 ins., provided the “ display.” Major Willis also he certainly tried hard. L/Cpl. Vincent could only manage 4 ft. 11 ins. This was not good as Vincent gave a souvenir brochure published at the cleared 5 ft. 3 ins. last year. time and contemporary numbers of The Sketch The two C.A.C. members went straight to 5. ft. and Punch. It is amusing to contrast the which both cleared. 5 ft. 2 ins. was next attempted, get-up of The Weekly Budget of that time with, Reed clearing, Beer failing. Reed cleared 5 ft. 3 ins. say. The Sketch of to-day. and 5 ft. 4 ins., but failed in his attempt at 5 ft. 5 ins. Next we had the 440 yards, the following taking Everyone will wish Mr. F. Crozier the p a rt:—C.A.C. :—Mr. Bouch, Mr. Gerry, Mr. Baker ; best of luck on the occasion of his recent 2nd Battalion:—L/Sgt. Good, L/Cpl. Tracey, L/Cpl. marriage to Miss Morna Brooks at Rathfarnham, Blake. Co. Dublin on August 4th. After one false start the competitors were got away. All seemed to hang very close for most of the distance, the lead being contested by Sgt. Good, Bouch and Athletics. L/Cpl. Tracy, the remainder being particularly close to On Thursday, 30th July, an evening athletic meet­ the leaders all through. In the end Sgt. Good won by ing was held against the Canterbury Athletic Club. inches. I should like to add one remark here. To pass a The conditions of the meeting were : three to run man on the track, the competitors must have sufficient in each event, except high and long jumps in which distance to go in front on the edge of the track without case each team had two competitors. Three points impeding the other competitor (otherwise he may be were scored for a win, two for second place and one for ruled out of the race), therefore it follows that one third. In the medley relay, winning team two points. sh uld go at top speed when passing. The meeting was held on the Battalion Sports Result:—1st: L/Sgt. Good ; 2nd : Bouch ; 3rd : Ground by the kind permission of the Commanding L/Cpl. Tracey; 4th: L/Cpl. Blake. Time: 54§ Officer. •secs. Won by inches. 2nd and 3rd by one yard. 322 THE DRAGON 2nd Battalion. ’J'HB 2nd Battalion arrived at Victoria Station about The way in which our men marched off the parade midday on the 24th August. I was, to my great . ground, headed by our Band and Drums, to take up regret, prevented from being present to witness their their public duties will never be forgotten by anyone arrival and subsequent departure for Chelsea Barracks. who saw it. I have, however, been able to obtain some account of The next move was to Buckingham Palace to see our the proceedings from a distinguished officer of high people arrive there. When they came they were rank who was there and wishes to be nameless for accompanied by a vast concourse of people among special reasons. I quote only the following from what whom I noticed many of the London Branch and other he says :—“ The detrainment was the quickest and Buffs. The Buckingham Palace Guard, under Lieut. best thing I have seen for a long time. Headed by the Reeves, detached itself and proceeded to take over its Coldstream Band they went off to Chelsea Barracks, duties—meanwhile the rest of the column passed on to and I followed them. I was greatly impressed with St. J ames’s Palace, where the crowd was so great that the splendid march discipline—and the fine bearing the police decided to stop all traffic until the “ Changing of the men. Then when the Battalion formed up in of the Guard ” was over. Capt. Howe was the Captain Chelsea Barracks soldier spectators could not fail to be of our guard with Lieut. Airy as subaltern and 2/Lieut. struck with the way in which the Battalion, after a Tuff carrying the Regimental Colour. I need say no tiresome journey, ‘ ordered Arms' from ‘ the slope.' more of the ceremony at St. J ames’s Palace except that It was a revelation and meant volumes to any soldier.” Further than this. General Corkran, G.O.C. London it was carried out in absolutely faultless style and made District, who was present at Chelsea Barracks when all us Buffs who watched it very proud. There are the Battalion arrived has been good enough to write two points which I wish to mention before I finish, to me as follows : ‘‘ If I may say so, your fellows namely :— looked splendid—hard, fit, cheery and very clean and (1) It has frequently been said to me by officers smart. I was delighted to see them and Crookenden.” of other Regiments : " I suppose you had a lot' of On Thursday, the 27th August, I went to London instructors from the Guards to show your people how to see something of the 2nd Battalion in their new to do the duties in London.” The answer is “ We had quarters. It was the day on which they were to take none.” their first tiim at the Palace Guards. Evidently news (2) I am delighted that Colonel Crookenden has of this had become widely known for at every Station decided that there shall be no specially selected guards at which my train stopped I saw large numbers of Buff and that every man in the 2nd Battalion should have Ties. On arrival in London I went to Chelsea Barracks his chance which may never occur again, of taking his to see the guard mounting parade. Colonel Crookenden turn on guard at the Royal Palaces. and other officers of our own Regiment and of the It only remains for me to say my final words regard­ Coldstream Guards were present and no one could fail ing the first day—August 27th, 1931—when the 2nd to agree that it was a most impressive sight—and Battalion took over public duties in London. They another triumph for Regimental-Sergeant-Major are: “ Well done, the 2nd Battalion and my very Vaughan—achieved in the presence of his old battalion heartiest congratulations to Colonel Crookenden and of the Coldstream Guards and on the parade ground all ranks.” where he has drilled so many young officers and recruits A. LYNDIiN-BEIJ,, of that famous regiment. Colonel.

n ^ H B whole battalion is A duty such as this is a unique privilege j - n/ w busily engaged seldom accorded to a line regiment, for nor­ in preparing for guard duty mally, as everyone knows, the Brigade of in London during the latter Guards performs these functions. As far as part of August and the" we can discover, The Buffs have in all their first fortnight in September. long history never before carried out these About 20 officers and 450 duties. Fully conscious, therefore, of the other ranks leave Shorn- honour of the occasion, all ranks have thrown cliffe on August 24th for their full energy into the preparations so that Chelsea Barracks and will when the time comes to march down the Mall, be there till about Septem­ we hope spectators will be able to remark— ber 15th. The battalion as they did ten years ago in Constantinople will be finding duties on on another occasion—“ Just as smart as the August 27th and 30th, Sep­ Guards, though not quite so ta ll! ” tember 2nd, 5th, 8th and On August 7th and 8th a miniature tattoo 11th. On these days we was held on the Leas at Folkestone in which shall be on guard at Buckingham Palace, the Machine Gunners gave a fine display of St. James's Palace, Magazine, Hyde Park, limber and machine gun work; whilst the and at night on the Bank of England. The Band and Drums also played massed with the familiar ceremony of changing guard may be others of the Brigade. witnessed on these days in Friary Court, St. James’s Palace at about 11 o’clock in the Then on the 12th, at Hythe, the Machine morning. Gunners performed again. THE DRAGON 321

“A” Company. I am pe “fectly certain it would not, but what an inestimable boon such a heritage would be. At the moment, without a deep dip into the The condolences of the company are extended to Sgt. Crump on pocket of company funds, one is definitely tied to the settlement, his sad bereavement. and it is left to the privileged few to enjoy the true glamour of the The past month has been particularly depressing to most people. place—a glamour that only unexplored lands can give to us slaves of The climate at present prevents anyone from having a great liking civilisation ! for the place and quite a number of new grouses have been heard, Meanwhile, the military side of our education has not been forgotten, particuarly by those who so far have not been allotted Vocational for we are in the throes of individual training, and the dick of cocking Courses and by those who have been sent on Detachment on account pieces of D.P. guns, coupled with an instructor’s exhortation to “ prove of the present unrest. revolvers,” penetrates even the peaceful atmosphere of the Company Fortunately our period of Individual Training commenced on Office, where Sergeant-Majors and such dignitaries are wont to take July 20th, so we were fortunate enough to get all in from Detachment their ease (that is the popular idea, anyway !). (if only for a short while), and now training is in full swing, great interest being displayed in bayonet and grenade training. Our leaders have The results of an Inter-Platoon Football Teague, held recently, impressed us that these “ items ” are handy ones to be proficient in are appended:— to likely participants in jungle warfare. One intelligent individual Platoon. Won. Lost. Drawn. Points. has been delving amongst manuals, both ancient and modern, to No. 7 3 0 0 6 ascertain what drill is applicable to those detailed to ride on elephants ; No. 6 1 1 1 3 another, being over intelligent, has applied for leave during the period No. 5 0 1 2 2 to be devoted to the throwing of live grenades. No. 8 0 2 1 1 Sickness takes a large toll of our numbers, at present an average of V.B. twenty daily being out of action. Happily none of these of a serious nature. Games are somewhat at a standstill, rugger and running being the only ones of interest; both of these competitions are likely to come “ D ” (M.G.) Company. off in the near future, which will be the only ones the company will compete in, as it is anticipated our sojourn in the Andaman Islands A few days ago, having a couple of minutes to spare,' I read a very will coincide with the remainder of the Harris Shield events. interesting article entitled “ Everything being Mechanised.” Tabour- C.Q.M.S. Ravenscroft was one of the “ HareS” in last week’s paper saving devices in all branches of industry are invented, amusements chase. He hopes to have recovered for the next one. also have largely been mechanised and, the article reads, life itself Ptes. Nolan, Hope, Kettle and Blake competed in the Burma is becoming mechanised at an alarming rate. Amateur Boxing Competition. Kettle was beaten in the first round It is very nice for a soldier who has a little time to spare to sit down by Nolan, the latter being beaten in the final by T/Cpl. Turk, 52nd and read these articles, but I wondered at the time why some of these Tight Infantry. Blake was beaten in the first round by G.ourdie, inventions are not used in the Army. For instance, I am sure the the holder, who retained the championship. Hope lost to Pte. Baxter Company Commander or the C.S.M. would much rather sit in the of the 52nd Tight Infantry. Not a bad show for the first year. No office with some kind of instrument in front of them and give words champions, but a good show to have four competitors in the champion­ of command to the company on the parade ground. Of course the ship and one to reach the final. Next year the battalion will be having instrument would have to have a mirror reflector attached to it so that some Burma champions. although sitting in a chair in the office they could check any faults. The Regimental Football team still contains the majority of “A” Then again, think how the ordinary soldier would appreciate the Company, with varying success. Morris has unfortunately been introduction of these instruments into the barrack room. Instead of injured, and it is doubtful if he will play again this season. having to parade for meals, lectures, Church, school, etc., he could Congratulations to Cpl. Ivey on promotion to full Corporal, and sit in his room or lie in bed as the case may be and have liis food brought to T/Cpl. Scullion on getting the pay of his appointment. Cpl. Ivey to him by some mechanical invention straight from the cookhouse. has left us for “B” Company and we are sorry to lose him. As for the other i terns, I am quite sure that the people concerned would Fifteen of the company are now on Vocational Training and Pte. be only too pleased to do their good turn to the soldier by allowing West has been allotted a course iii U.K. Others are still hoping to him to sit in the barrack rooms, specially fitted with loud-speakers, see their names in Battalion Orders. and listen to the lectures, sermons or instruction, whichever happens 2/Tieut. Alexander has been in hospital for the past month, but to be on at the time. Then again, think what a wonderful thing it we hope to have him rejoin us very soon. would be to have a machine to do your writing for you while all you Sgt. Sinclair is due for the Small Arms School in September; do is sit in a chair and watch it. What a boon this would be to incidentally, who is the N.C.O. of his platoon who told his squad “ We Dragon representatives. I think I could sit and imagine hundreds will now have a few minutes’ silent criticism ” ? of things like this for weeks, but I have just been reminded that these Sgt. Turner will also be leaving us (unfortunately for us) about the notes are for publication during 1931, and not having the last mentioned same time for a tour at the Depot and we hope that his eventual return invention in my possession, I must do the next best thing—write them. will be to “A” Company. I am very glad to see that rugby in the company is improving . Only five remain with the company who were in Turkey (including to a very great extent. Our first match against Steele’s ended by them the Company Commander), arid of these the C.S.M., Sgt. Turner and beating us by 36 points. We turned the same team out against the Sgt. Hoskins are leaving, those remaining being Cpl. Priestley and remainder of the battalion and managed to draw with them after a Pte. Spice. very good game. Since then several matches have been played and Sgt. Tarkin is back from the A.F. (I) attached to the battalion that old maxim “ Practice makes perfect ” has certainly been proved whilst on a stripping course. He is quite happy and contented and is so far as the Gunners are concerned. But the ideal weather for rugby now an expert badminton player and with a little practice in his spare is not the ideal weather for football. I had hopes of including the time between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. hopes to get to the championship stage. results of our Inter-Section Football in these notes, but owing to the The Company Jazz Band can be heard each evening, but have not weather only two matches have been played. I hope to include the yet commenced booking engagements. A few more instruments are final results in the next edition. being procured and now we require a few more artistes. It is a long time since the company had a Novices’ Boxing Com­ H.E. petition, but at last the C.S.M. has found time to promote this and we hope from the result to be able to pick out our Harris Shield team so as to enable them to do a bit of training before this event takes place. We have already started picking our cross-country running team “B” Company. and I think by having our Inter-Section Competition regularly the P ort Btair. men will appreciate the training necessary for this sport. There is one thing we have not been able to do since our arrival The " land of the lotus eaters ” lias seen a change of personnel in Rangoon, and that is to play hockey. _ I t seems to be absolutely since the last appearance of Andamanese Dragon notes, for “C” impossible to fix a game unless we go to Mingaladon, where they have Company lias been replaced by “B” Company. only one ground. Hockey in India and hockey in Burma cannot be From all appearances “B” seems to be revelling in the change compared. The shortage of hockey grounds here gives one the after the vigorous life (not altogether military vigour) of Rangoon. A impression that the people in this country don’t seem to appreciate party of rapidly improving oarsmen, under the able coxswainship of Capt. this sport at all. Backhouse, may be seen during the early evening plying towards popular fishing grounds. Others, not such good sailors, try their luck So far our Company Concert Party have not been able to produce from the rocks on the eastern side of our island home; whilst the another entertainment. The M.SS. has been written out and songs 4 o’clock ferry takes to Aberdeen a daily cargo of football or hockey selected, but duties, combined with a serious outbreak of influenza, players to battle in the local leagues. has interfered with the arrangements and forced us to put off the The fortnightly dances in the “ Chota Club,” a regular feature concert for a couple of weeks. of the place, continue under the auspices of “B” Company, whose We are still giving our Company Dances once a week in the Gym­ jazz band is rapidly improving. By the way, our thanks are due to nasium and according to reports (and, of course, the takings at the the ladies who have come forward to help us in the piano side of the door) they are proving very successful. The Company Band play business. very well together and, I venture to suggest, would give the civilian To attempt to describe the amazing beauty of this halycon spot dance orchestras a run with a little more practice. Tife.in a dance after “C” Company’s admirable notes and Die interesting articles band is everything, and when this spirit is transferred to the dancers, from the pen of Mr. Charles Bonnington which have appeared in recent everything is bound to be successful. I am rather inclined to think numbers of The Dragon, would be superfluous. I t is sufficient to say that is why the troops enjoy our Company Band better than others that we are appreciating them. If ever the Army estimates shew a in town. Within the next few weeks they hope to be able to introduce surplus (what a hope), I wonder if the question of providing a launch a new novelty in dance music. However, more about that anon. for the use of the British Detachment at Port Blair would be considered ? 320 THE DRAGON

The following were the sides :— On Friday, 31st inst., we are entertaining the Gymkhana and Steels.—J. Q. Wood ; W. C. Brown, Corporals and their wives to a series of games and C. E- Bingham, T. M. Ferguson, M. P. Williams ; M. W. dancing and hope to initiate them into the mysteries of White, R. M. H all; G. B. Wall, E- K. Piercy, R. A. R. " Slosh " and other classical games. Mackay, E. R. Mackay, D. P. McCarthy, Pritchard, In conclusion, on behalf of all members of the mess J. Downie, Hall. and their wives, I tender to Sgt. Crump our deepest The Buffs.—Pte. Knight; Pte. Crust, Sgt. Glazier, sympathy in his great loss. Mrs. Crump, although Capt. Allen, Pte. Taylor ; Lieut. Hoare, Lieut. D. O. B. such a short time with us, was always a cheery supporter Oliver; Capt. Essel, Lieut. Murphy, Sgt. Watson, of any mess function. We all attended the Funeral Cpl. Groves, Pte. Long, Cpl. Digliton, Pte. Smith, at the Cemetery here on Sunday, the 19tli inst., mem­ Pte. Nolan. bers of the Mess acting as Pall Bearers. 7-A-Side Game. A.B. 48. This was played off during the interval and was fought out at a terrific pace. . Grieve opened the scor­ ing with a try which he failed to convert. After Payne had only just missed securing a try Odd from a pass Corporals’ Club. which he received from Sutton went on to score wide At present the Members are rather split up owing to and Payne failed to convert. Half-time : Colours 3 the Detachment at Nyaunglebin which provides at least points, Whites 3 points. seven Corporals to be changed every fortnight. During the second half Grieve brought off a wonder­ Consequently, it has been found impossible to run our ful run from fully 50 yards and secured a brilliant usual Billiard Competition. There are several Corporals try under the bar which he converted. Final result : of the 4th Divisional Signal Corps from India staying Colours 8 points, Whites 3 points. with us for a few days, so we arranged an impromptu The following were the sides :— social to welcome them, which was held in the Club on Colours.—Grieve, Palmer, McGuire; Hall; Watson, Saturday night. Various games were played, such as Richardson, Weatherfield. Phat, Bridge and Solo, also a team of six at Billiards. Whites.—Odd, Sutton, Noble ; Payne ; Cumming, We were too strong for our opponents at this and only R. A. R. Mackay, Downes. lost one game. We were granted an extension until (Rangoon Gazette). 11 p.m. and a small grant to cover the cost of sand­ wiches and a couple of rounds of drinks. Everyone agreed that it was a very pleasant evening and it was mum appreciated by the visiting N.C.O.’s. Sergeants’ Mess. Friday week we are folding a Whist Drive and small What one can do, another can attempt. Anyhow, Dance and when the weather is more settled we are to cut a long story short, our correspondence clerk is going to have an “ outing " to the Lakes. On this indisposed, and it has fallen to my lot to prepare the Friday, 31st July, the Members of the Sergeants’ notes for this month which I am afraid will be rather Mess have invited us to a Social and Dance of which a brief. full account will be given next month. With so many outside attractions within easy reach, the Mess never seems to suffer from that over­ crowded feeling like, so I am given to understand, the detachment mess at Rangoon. Our weekly “H.Q.” Wing. functions carry bn, but it does seem a pity so few of our ladies come along to support us, even if they do not Once again I am at a loss how to fill the duties of Headquarter play whist we like to see them occasionally. The usual Wing correspondent as Mick supplied the notes last month through my being on guard, and this month has been so wet and uneventful number of tables is six, a very small number indeed. that I can only mention the fact that once again “A” Company are Now, come along, please ; Mingaladon is quiet enough struck off duties for training and Headquarter Wing is finding all at the best of times, and we arrange the shows for duties combined with the few men of “C” Company who have not to be taken to relieve “A” Company at Nyuanglebin (duties in aid to everyone. Civil Power). I t is not a very strange sight these days to see the On Friday, the 10th July a very enjoyable evening Drum-Major, the Pioneer Sergeant and the Sanitation Corporal doing was spent, and resulted as follows :— guard and B.O.S.’s. The Band and Drums have had very little time for practice, and several times when the Drums have been about to Ladies.—1st: Mrs. Evans; 2nd: Mrs. Hubbard. turn out for Retreat, the skies have suddenly opened up as they do GENTS.—1st: R.S.M. Evans ; 2nd : C.S.M. Holman. every week at the commencement of the battalion cross-country runs. The Booby prizes were won by Mrs. Chillingsworth There has not been much company sport through the rains, although and R.Q.M.S. Mould. several games have been played with the Arsenal and some of the In connection with this, the usual four-anna younger footballers have been getting practice. Most of our old com­ pany team arc due for the TT.K. this trooping season and we shall have swindle was held and appeared to be the most popular to find players from the transfers and drafts to replace them. Pte. event, judging by the number of C.Q.M.S.'s playing Pulman of “C” is being transferred to the Wing so we are assured of pokie. die for chances during the interval. In this, a goalie to take the place of Pte. Billett, our. old goalie, who is away Mrs. Hubbard won first prize, with Sgt. Turner a on a Vocational Course. good second. The C.C.M.A.’s Annual Inspection of the Wing’s arms was an event which caused knees to knock, and rifles were always being cleaned After twelve hands of whist the floor was cleared from Reveille to Retreat with extreme thoroughness, and although and we carried on dancing for the remainder of the this is a damp and consequently bad station for rifles, the standard evening. of rifles is good in Headquarter Wing, probably due to the fact that a The following Friday, a long whist drive of 24 hands great number of new rifles has been distributed in the battalion during took place attracting only five tables, owing to a the last two years and recent lectures on the care of arms. heavy monsoon shower falling just before the start. The hobby of gardening, which was taken up by a number of men on arrival in Burma, has been taken up quite seriously by everybody Prizewinners were as follows :— that could find a suitable piece of land, and now there is hardly a bare patch near the bungalow. Some of the gardens are showing quite good Ladies.—1st: Mrs. Evans; 2nd: Mrs. Pratt. results for the labour spent upon them, others look exactly the same GENTS.— 1st: C.S.M. Ransley ; 2nd : C.Q.M.S. Pratt. as they must have done a couple of hundred years back before the forests disappeared, but one gains experience by continually trying The “ Swindle ” again proved an attraction, Sgt. and no doubt there will be some fine gardens here by the time the Parrett winning first prize and C.S.M. Beasley runner- battalion leaves this station. up. G.W.F. THE DRAGON 319 some good passing was seen. Coade, from a pass by pressed and from Marsh’s corner-kick and the resultant Eke, opened the scoring with a fast and well placed play in front of goal Coade-succeeded in putting us on shot. A through ground pass from Coade saw equal terms. The Railwaymen took the lead in rather Kemsley fastening on and further increasing the lead. an unexpected way. Their wing-man centred well, Having almost all the play we went further ahead, Crampton had the ball covered, but Newbury, rushing Coade again finding the net. Nearing half-time the in in an attempt to clear, turned the ball into his own visitors nearly managed to get near reducing the gap, goal, a bad mistake. After this, the Railway’s were but offside spoilt a promising movement. The second content to rest on the defence and. despite many half was practically a repetition of the first half. attempts of our right wing to score again, managed to Kemsley shot well after receiving from Coade, the hold out and we were beaten by the score already goalie threw the ball out, but our centre managed to indicated. A very fast, clean and interesting game recapture it with his head and it found the hole at the in which we were always the masters of our opponents. back of the net. Hand Ball saw our goalie scoring We, I am, sure, shall never have such terrible luck as from the ' spot kick ’ with a well-placed shot (He can in this match. Crampton was outstanding in goal, now be heard telling the remainder how to score Vasey the better of the backs, Marshall (making his first penalties). A bout of passing by the inside men saw appearance in Teague games) was the best of the half­ Heath in possession and he managed to find the net' backs. The right wing alone did any good work in This ended the scoring and we were winners as indicated. the forward line, Coade being a very hard and scheming Crampton had very little to do, his shot being the most worker in this respect. The team was :—Goal: important piece of work performed by him. The Crampton ; Backs : Newbury and Vasey; Half-Backs : backs played well, Coomb again proving a very good Marshall, Purkiss and Harlow; Forwards : King, deputy. The half-line also played well, Marshall being Coade (Capt.), Kemsley, Eke and Marsh. outstanding, in fact he showed us some real good foot­ ball.' Keeping the ball on the ground, he tackled with W.L.L., sound judgment and gave the forwards many glorious Pte., 1st Buffs. passes, in fact he should easily displace Harlow at left- half. Harlow in the centre, on the other hand, often headed the ball in the direction of his own goal and completely failed to hold his man ; he must learn Gym. and Steels Win. to recover quicker. Eke played very well on the left, running and centreing well. Kemsley and Coade A 3-P oints Victory. have developed a nice understanding in the mir1 lie The Buffs showed improved form in the game on (in fact Coade was again the. pick of the forwards). the Gymkhana ground last evening. The combined Heath again failed, but King on the right wing gave a team, Gymkhana and Steels, were just about the better sound display. A good winger who has greatly im­ side and so deserved their victory. The Buffs’ forwards proved. Our team for this match was :—Crampton, gave their backs a full share of the ball, but seldom Newbury and Coomb ; Purkiss, Harlow and Marshall,; could the latter make much headway. On the other King, Coade, Kemsley, Heath and Eke. This game was hand the .Gymkhana and Steels’ backs were more also refereed by the writer (so critics in the 1st Battalion accurate in handling. They were also quicker in their must once again excuse mistakes). stride. Consequently the Buffs’ centres more often Before a very large gathering on the 17th we met than not found themselves “ bottled ” by the and were defeated by the Burma Railways by the odd opposition. Crust made the most of his limited chances goal in three. In this match we were particularly on the wing. unlucky, for after enjoying much more of the game The Gymkhana and Steels’ passing movements than our opponents we saw Newbury deflecting a shot broke down time and again. Ferguson tried hard and into his own goal, and incidentally giving the Railway- some of his dashes down the left touch-line were thril­ men the victory. We again lacked the services of ling. Morris and Tutt, Tutt in the forward line being sadly missed. Purkiss deputised very well for our skipper. Outplaying the combined teams’ pack both in the Eke, playing in the inside-left position failed to combine scrums and in the open, the Buffs’ pack started well and with Marsh, but did not do so bad considering his quite early made ground with strong rushes. Taylor infrequent appearances in the 1st Eleven. raised the Buffs’ hopes but was held within a couple Assuming the offensive from the outset, our of yards of the back line when a try looked to be a forwards being fast and quick on the ball, the Railway’s certainty. A little later from a fly-kick Wood out- defence were hard pressed. Their goalie cleared in raced Lieut. Murphy -for the touch down. Open rapid succession from Coade and Kemsley. The play followed with the combined team gaining ground pressure being temporarily relieved, Crampton had steadily. Ferguson was well away, but Williams to run out to clear from their inside-right and their failed to take the pass and a little later half-time arrived centre drove inches wide. Swinging the leather about with the score sheet a blank. with long passes which had the Railway’s defence The second half was full of excitement. A sprint guessing, we were soon back in our opponents' territory, by Ferguson should have ended in a try, but when but Coade’s shot found their goalie on the alert. End within a yard of his objective he was brought down to end exchanges followed and although we did most by Knight. At the other end both Glazier and Taylor of the pressing the Railwaymen were very dangerous failed to gather passes by Capt. Allen and then in a in their raids. In one of these Crampton, in attempt­ break away White had bad luck in being held a couple of ing to save a drive from their centre, fell from the re­ yards away from the Buffs' goal-line. After 15 minutes’ bound taken by the inner man, to air an obvious offside play the Gymkhana and Steels scored. Hall sent out goal. Finishing the first half with a bustling attack, a pass to Brown who gained a start on Taylor and we were prevented from equalising on many occasions, Lieut. D. O. B. Oliver. Brown was close to the touch- Coade in particular having hard luck. In the second line and had Knight to pass, but securing in clever half we practically monopilised the play, but the left fashion, he just squeezed through and raced in for a and centre-forward failed in shooting and many fine try. Ferguson failed to convert. The Buffs tried 0PP0r^un^ es were thrown away. Coade, who was hard to at least get on terms, but their splendid efforts the schemer of our attack, again was unlucky to see a were of no avail. Final result: Gymkhana and Steels header just graze the bar and sail over. We again XV, 3 points ; The Buffs, nil. 318 THE DRAGON

Goal: Crampton ; Backs: Newbury and- Vasey ; of bringing the ball back before parting-with it. Tonge Half-Backs : Purkiss, Morris and Harlow ; Forwards :. on the left was greedy and should part with it long before King, Coade,) Heath, Tutt and Marsh. he does. Eke at inside-left was the best of a poor set Yet again another Friday game on the 10th inst., of forwards. Satterly on the right had little to do, we being away to University College XI., a strong team but what he did do he did very well, the only goal in the Rangoon League, who had just beaten the being the result of ‘ swinging the ball about,’ a sure Burma Railway (at present holding the top position policy under the conditions. This was the first time in the League) in a friendly encounter. They gave a these men had played together so I think we did well, trial to several new players in the first half of the game Our team was :— and played their full representative side in the second Goal: Pullman (“C”) ; Backs: Coomb (H.Q.) half. With the wind at our backs we kicked off and and Beauchamp, ("A”) ; Half-Backs: S. Martin, the early play was all in the visitors' , territory and we (“H.Q.”), Farrell (“C”), Nolan (“A”); Forwards: had hard luck frdin scoring on more than one occasion. Satterly (‘‘H.Q.”); Davidson, (“D”) (M;G.), Heath The College wingmen were very fast and their centres ("C”), Eke (“H.Q.”) and Tonge (“D”- (M.G.) ). always spelt danger to our last line, who kicking strongly Monday, 13th July saw us again playing the soon had them well in hand. The half-time whistle University XI. with a slightly altered eleven. Coomb came with the score-board—blank. A very clean, fast of “H.Q.” deputising for Vasey, and Heath, "C,” for and interesting half in every way. On the resumption Tutt (absent on account of the Rebels). However, we attacked strongly and a pass from Coade to King, a very interesting game was witnessed by a large gather­ his outside man, saw the latter centre well into the goal­ ing of students. The College opened strongly and mouth. To all it appeared that the ball was. going within three minutes had taken the lead, their inside- just outside the post, but the goalkeeper caught it left taking full advantage of a slip in our defence. Rain and was bundled ball and all into the net by our came on and playing strongly our halves and forwards energetic centre (Kemsley). Still, having most of the took command of the game. We were not long in play, we went further ahead, Coade meeting a centre obtaining the equaliser, Kemsley fastening on to a from King and scored a good goal with a fine ground pass from Coade and made no mistake with his final shot. The College again had hard luck in not scoring effort. We took the lead on nearing half-time, and the final whistle met without any further addition Kemsley again being the scorer, crowning good work to the score. Crampton in goal had a great deal to do by Coade and King on the right. The second half was and did it well, two saves in particular being brilliant. played in a torrential downpour, but in spite of this The backs were very steady under pressure. The some good passing was seen. Exchanges in this half half-line played quite good, Morris in the centre being were fairly even and only the condition of the ground the better of the trio ; the forwards were up to prevented further scoring on both sides. We, how­ scratch. The right wing (Coade and King) were a hard ever, managed to notch another goal through Marsh, working pair with Kemsley a bustling leader. Marsh who, running well, found himself almost on the goal­ and Tutt on the left spoilt an otherwise good display line and from an almost impossible angle, lobbed the by holding on to the ball too long ; if they only had ball over the goalkeeper’s head into the net. This passed a bit more, more goals would have resulted. ended the scoring and we ran out winners 3-1. A However, it was a very good and clean game. Our very clean set of fellows, this College team, who always team was - give us a clean and sporty game. Our team played Goal: Crampton ; Backs : Newbury and Vasey ; quite well and are now accustomed to these sodden Half-Backs : Purkiss; Morris and Harlow; Forwards : grounds, for amost every match it rains, in fact many King, Coade, Kemsley, Tutt and Marsh. matches at home would be cancelled on this account, but not so in Burma; the teams here fairly revel in On Saturday, the 11th, the 2nd XI. visited Rangoon the rain and mud. Crampton played his usual game, to play a friendly game with the Chinese Union. On the backs played well and kicked strongly, Coomb a rain-sodden pitch it was impossible to play good proving a capable substitute for Vasey. The half­ football, also the referee did not, unfortunately, know line worked with vigour, Morris in the centre being much about the game. Still, all things considered, the best of a fairly good line. The forwards were a fairly good game was witnessed and we were narrowly, good, the right-wing pair being the best in the line, beaten 2-1. The Union were the first to attack and Kemsley in fact proving a dangerous man in the taking our defence by surprise scored an early goal. centre; he has now got used to his inside-men. In For a while we were completely outplayed by a team this respect, however, he did not get much assistance who revelled in the mud, our defence being sorely tried. from Heath who, although a trier is by no means a Tutt. However, they overcame this and we now had a little he is far too slow. Marsh, as in the previous match, more of the play. Lack of finish and inability to control spoilt an otherwise good display by hanging on to the a greasy ball, saw many chances in front of goal being ball too long. However, a very good show. Our team wasted. The Union came on again and scored a good was :— goal from about 12 yards out. We were not long, Crampton ; Newbury and Coomb ; Purkiss, Morris however, in reducing the leeway, Satterly on the right and Harlow; King, Coade, Kemsley, Heath and sending over a well-judged dropping shot which found Marsh. the mark. There was no further scoring before half­ I, the writer, was called upon to referee this game, time. The second half was even, both sides in turn so anyone who witnessed the game must excuse any having bad luck in not scoring. We had a slice of bad mistakes I have made in this report. luck nearing the finish when Eke broke through and The following evening, 14th July, saw us at shot wide with only the goalie to beat. The final whistle Mingaladon Garrison Ground engaging the Rangoon sounded with no addition to the half-time score. Pull­ City Police in a Friendly. ..For this game we lacked man in goal played well and could not be blamed for the the services of our skipper (Morris) and also Marsh. two goals scored. The backs were good. Coomb being This resulted in Harlow moving to the ■ Centre and the better of the two. The halves were disappointing, Marshall being introduced at left half; Eke deputised particularly Farrell in the centre who was very weak. for Marsh on the left wing. Once again we were handi­ The forwards lacked understanding and relied too much capped by the rain and after a while the ground was in on individual play. They would have done much better an. almost unplayable condition. We monopolised if they had swung the ball about as the opponents did. the game throughout and ran out winners 6-1. Foot­ Heath at centre was slow and must forget the habit ball of a high nature was practically impossible, but THE DRAGON 317

Left to right— Pie. Sandom, Drum Major Richards, Roy Thacker, Winner of C.O.’s bugle. Winner of Adjutant’s bugle. taken to hospital. It was even reported to Friday, the 3rd July saw us opening July with a win against the Rangoon City Police by the narrow be in the process of being cut up at the hospital. margin of 2-1. The game was witnessed by a very The comedy lies in the fact that the dead man small crowd, but probably the clerk of the weather can is alive, never went out shooting, and had tell us something about this, as the match was played certainly never seen the python. in a downpour of rain throughout. The Police opened very strongly, having a strong wind and the rain at their I have asked a number of people what the}’ backs, whereas we were handicapped by an almost would do if they were to meet a 30 foot snake, blinding rain in our faces. Football of any high standard was quite out of the question on this water­ and with one accord they nearly all gave the logged pitch, and the match was, of course, not up to same answer, i.e., rapidly withdraw to a cover­ the standard of other games witnessed on this ground. ing position from which a reconnaissance The Police, in the early stages of the game, monopolised of another route to their destination could the play and a gap in our defence saw them obtain an early goal. This roused us considerably and we were be carried out in safety. soon in the vicinity of their goal. Several of the This leads me to the suggestion that perhaps forwards had hard luck in not equalising; however members of the Regiment, both past and we were not to be denied and Coade, receiving from Purkiss, eluded two or three players and passed to present, might care to enliven our dull moments King, who scored with a good shot. This acted as a with descriptions of encounters with dangerous tonic to our men and for the remainder of the first half beasts, both wild and otherwise. dominated the play. Ten minutes after our first goal, Marsh, on the left, beat the opposing back in a race for the ball and from a difficult position scored with a well-placed ‘ drop shot ’ (Marsh, by the way, seems to Football Notes. have a great liking for these shots, which are always well on the mark). We appeared to be certain to go Reviewing the period of football we have played further ahead when Coade, after beating several i.e., from the 23rd May until the end of June, we have, opponents, found himself practically unmarked in front I think, acquitted ourselves very well. Duties and of goal, Tutt rushed up and taking the ball almost off illness are very heavy in this sultry climate and all his toe as he was about to shoot, sent the leather well things considered we are now performing well. We ‘ over the top ’ and unfortunately robbed us of an have become accustomed to the grounds and play of almost certain goal. Half-time arrived with the score our opponents. At present we are lying fourth in the 2-1 in our favour. The second half was very interest­ Rangoon Deague, Senior Division 1 and hope by the ing, play being equal and the Police being very end of July to considerably improve this position. dangerous in tlicir breakways, their outside-right having Unfortunately our team is distributed, some in Rangoon hard luck from scoring on two occasions. Our team and some in Mingaladon, and training cannot be stayed the pace exceedingly well and managed to keep attended to. However, some of the lads are very the Police from equalising, and so, after a very hard keen and carry out their own method of keeping fit game under the conditions we were deservedly for these strenuous encounters. Our goal average to winners, by the score as indicated at half-time. Our date in all matches is as follows opponents were a very clean and sportsmanlike side. Our team as a whole played well, and they had to rely Flayed, 8 ; Won, 5 ; Dost, 3 ; Drawn, 0 ; Goals For, 19 ; chiefly on individual efforts to get them through. Two A gainst, 9. hard-earned and welcome points. The team was as Quite a good performance in every way. follows :— Post free— Ireland & Abroad. 8/-. per annum. 4/- . .6 months. 2/- S months. Write,:—Editor, , Depot,. The,Buffs, Canterbury Telephone,:. 513. .

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No. 382. September, 1931. Price Sixpence. Personalia. TITAJOR-GENERAL Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell when down came the rain. Bandmaster Foster j M was present at Canterbury for the Cricket with his usual versatility, brought his Band Week, on August 3rd, 5th and 7th, for the under shelter close to the tea tent and began Service of Remembrance on 16th, for Regi­ to play dance music which we 'all thoroughly mental Cricket Week 17th and 19th, and visited enjoyed. The Dean asked that Mr. Foster the 2nd Battalion in London on 27th , ultimo, should be presented to him. This was done and on 3rd instant. , and the Dean. remarked : " Yesterday, when I heard the 2nd Battalion Band, - it played The 2/5th Buffs, who have recently joined Chopin's Funeral March more beautifully than the Past and • Present Association in I have ever heard it played, and now they are great force, must have felt very proud on playing jazz music to perfection." August 16th, when Lord Goschen marched at their head to and from the Cathedral. The thanks of the Regiment are due to Mrs.; Mason, who so kindly decorated the Warriors’ We were very glad to receive a visit the Chapel for the Service of Remembrance, other day at the Depot from Brigadier A. J. an d to those who supplied flowers for the purpose, McCulloch, D.S.O., D.C.M., Commandant of in which connection we must mention Mrs; the Senior Officers' School, who is well-known Friend and Mrs. Findlay. to many in the Regiment. He has had a We think we are correct in saying that remarkable career. H e. got his commission this is the first year when any real’ special from the ranks during the South African War effort has been made to brighten " The Buffs into the Highland Light Infantry, and was Chapel ” by floral decorations,'and-we hope transferred to the 7th Dragoon Guards as a that the idea may be continued and. grow. Captain in 1911. During the Great War he Mrs. Mason has a real affection for The; commanded the 9th Battalion Yorkshire Light Buffs. Her brother-in-law" was in the Regiment Infantry and also a Brigade in France, and in the Zulu War, from the effects of which He came out of the War with three wounds and a met his death. A tablet in the Cathedra! D.S.O. with two bars. Subsequently he was bears record to his services. Chief Instructor at the Quetta Staff College and commanded a Brigade at Aldershot. The following ladies very kindly assisted in arranging flowers for the enclosure , and Our Chaplain, the Dean of Canterbury. luncheon tents at Canterbury Cricket Week - (Dr. Hewlett Johnson), was a guest of the Mrs. Findlay, Mrs. Vallance, Mrs. Friend,. Mrs. Depot at their tent on the first day of Eric Neame, Miss Patience Ronald and .Mrs. the cricket match between the Regiment Thomson. " Mr. Chapman, Mrs. Findlay, Mrs. and the Band of Brothers. The match had Vallance and Mrs. Friend also provided the not been in progress very long in the afternoon flowers. 296 THE : DRAGON

Messrs. Cripps’ Nurseries at St. Duristan’s Captain (local .Lieut.fColonel) Neil Rice is| •were responsible for the flowers at the entrance. at Kano arid very fit, while Mr. .Knocker is, ; .to • and in the enclosure. Messrs. Phillips reported as going stfongl at'Ydla/ where lie is j ' and Sons of Canterbury supplied the luncheons, commanding a compariyi| r ; . ... ; . \l and the Quaint Cafe cakes for teas. We congratulate ■‘Captain Wilson on his; We were glad to notice in our tent during appointment to succeed Captain, Willows as;. the Cricket Week the following patrons of Adjutant of the 4th Bjattalion on December: our Association :—Commander Carlyon Bellairs, ' 14th, and we wish him every success. Sir Edmund Davis, the Right Hon. L. Hardy, Sir Charles Igglesden, Sir William Manning, Lord Northbourne, Lord Plender, Sir Henry Mr. Dudley Lister writes cheerily from Streatfield, and also our Chaplain, the Dean Maiduguri, which is about 80 miles from Lake of Canterbury. Chad and 350 rfrom^Kail0- The white popula­ tion of Maiduguri varies from 15 to 25, and A musical critic of great distinction there is some pold and excellent shooting. remarked during the Cricket Week : “ I think Mr. Lister hopes to finish his last tour with the Bandmaster of The Buffs is to be Con­ The R.W.A.F.F. on October 22nd next year gratulated on the suitability of the programmes and rejoin the Regiment. he has selected. What you want on occasions like this is tunes everyone knows. I suppose We have heard with mixed feelings the news I am what is described as a ' highbrow,’ but of the; appointment of the Rev. Harry ‘ highbrow ’ music is no earthly use here.” Blackburne; D.S.O., M.C., to be a Canon, of We entirely agree. Windsor. On the one hand we heartily. con­ gratulate him on going to an appointment Major Trollope is home on leave from which will be very congenial to him, but on South Africa for the shooting season and the other we shall miss him tremendously returns.there on January 7th, 1932. at Ashford, where he is so greatly beloved by everyone and where his many kindnesses Major Booth, whom we were delighted to to the men of our Ashford Branch can never see with Mrs. Booth at the Cricket Week, be forgotten. visited the Regimental Museum at the Depot and was good enough to make a handsome The Colonel of. the Regiment has received, donation towards it. Other donations, how­ with deep regret, the news of the death of Mr. ever small, will be welcomed. G. T. Rogers, Secretary of the Margate Branch ‘ Our Museum, which is the special child of our Association. Mr. Rogers has done of Colonel Thomson and is in the immediate invaluable work of the Regiment. He never charge of Captain “ Bill ” Andrews, is going spared himself, and as late as August 15th, very strong, and it is hoped that anyone who though very ill, he was engaged in working out has anything of Regimental interest in his the arrangements for the attendance of the or her possession will send it along. Margate Branch at the Remembrance Day parade. The Colonel is sure that the whole Another welcome visitor to the Depot Regiment will join him in expressing deepest during the Cricket Week was Mr. Arthur sympathy with Mrs. Rogers in her irreparable Jelf, Colonial Secretary in Jamaica, whose loss. • son is serving in the 1st Battalion. Mr. Jelf has recently been acting as Governor of J amuica The Secretary of the Association has and with conspicuous success during a somewhat received from Miss Lynden-Bell the sum of trying period in the history of the island. £26 as a result of the entertainment recently organised by her and held at Maidstone. Mr. Raymond Grace, a nephew of Mr. This sum has been credited to the Benevolent Arthur Jelf, will be gazetted to the Regiment Fund. from Sandhurst on August 28th. We welcome On behalf of the Association we say thank him to the Regiment with which he has close you very much indeed. family connections. His cousin is serving in May we venture to hope that others in other the 1st Battalion. His very gallant uncle, districts may be able to find the time to organise Charles Gordon Jelf, was killed on October entertainments for the same purpose, thereby 13th, 1915 whilst serving with our 6th Battalion helping the many Buffs who through no fault in France. of their own are " up against it ” ? THE DRAGON 297

Rangoonk Times, 3 0 / 7 / 3 1 Sgt.-Drummer It is this : “ Is H. Hobbs that charming red­ A. W> Andrews, The Buffs, one of the finest faced fellow who was, in “A” Company 1st soldier athletes ever to come to Burma, whose Battalion The Buffs when Cheal was Colour- performances on the B;A.A. Ground in 1913 Sergeant of it ? ” Perhaps Mr. Hobbs will are still in the Burma records, in both civil reply. and Army events, and who was granted commissioned rank, has now been promoted As regards the article in our last issue Captain Quartermaster and posted to the entitled “ Vishnu in Erse,” an old Buff writes : Regimental Depot at Canterbury. During the “ I fancy I can recognise under the pseudonym Great War he was mentioned in despatches “ P. & P.A. 1659 ” the hand of Hughie Borland, and awarded the D.C.M. ' I can vouch for the veracity of his story about There are many in Rangoon and Burma the performance of the 1st Battalion Band who still remember this splendid athlete at the native function at Khirja, in 1893, and will be glad to hear of his promotion.” because I was there. But the author does not mention that at the end of the performance From 1931 Handbook. B.A.A. Records. the head native came up to the Band-Sergeant Army. (Micky Roach) and said : “ You Boff fellows understand us. You are rough fellows but Quarter Miie.—Sgt.-Dmr. A. W. Andrews, we like you.” The Buffs. . Year 1913. 51 secs. . This reminds us of an incident which took : Civ ilia n s. place, a few months before that recorded Quarter Mile.—Sgt.-Dmr. A. W. Andrews, above. We had two teams in for the Calcutta The Buffs. Year 1913. 51 f secs. Rugby Cup. Our second team was drawn against a team of Bengali Baboos. It was a Half Mile.—Sgt.-Dmr. A. W. Andrews, tragedy or a farce, whatever you like to call it. The Buffs. Year 1913., 2 mins. 7-1- secs. The Bengali Baboos trusted to their weight, which was certainly tremendous, but they had A great Regimental character, Drum-Major no knowledge of the game and at the end Tripp of the 4th Battalion, will, most unfor­ of the first half the Bengali Captain came up tunately,. finish his “ official ” career in the to our Captain and said : “ Sir, we resign the Regiment very -shortly under the age rules. match. Your men are too fat and too fierce.” Happily, however, he will, be given permission to wear his uniform on retirement and con­ Two hundred and twenty-one Warrant sequently we hope to see him as Drum-Major Officers, N.C.O.’s and men of the 2nd Battalion of the 4th Battalion for many years to come. were on parade at Canterbury for the Service ; We take this opportunity of congratulating of Remembrance and were subsequently the him on his great service to the Regiment in guests of Branches and the Association at getting together a Corps of Drums which is luncheon and tea. without equal in the Territorial Army. The following Chelsea Pensioners attended We offer our hearty congratulations on his the Service of Remembrance:—Pensioners 5th regimental birthday, which occurs on the Fairchild, Marsh, Turner, Brohpy, Kenealy 9th of September, to Regimental Sergeant- and Barnes. Major Vaughan. The five years of his tenure of the post of R.S.M. of the 2nd Battn. have We very much regret to hear of the death been eventful ones in the history of the Regi­ of Mrs. Keefe, wife of that well-known member ment and he has contributed in no small of the Ashford Branch of the Past and Present degree to their success. Association. We offer Mr. Keefe our sincere sympathy. We are glad to notice that readers of The Dragon keep a close eye on our “ Corres­ pondence ” pages. As regards the August Dragon, readers have expressed their pleasure How to get *4 The Dragon.** that such worthy Buffs as W. Taylor and H. W. pO R those wishing to receive the Paper direct through the Walton have, thanks to the Association, been . , .post each month, the rates of subscription are:— fitted up with good jobs, but a Buff of the old 1 year, 8}-, 6 months, 4/-, 3 months, 2[ brigade asks us a conundrum which we cannot Remittances should be sent to the Editor, Depot The Buffs. answer as regards the letter from H. Hobbs. Canterbury. 298 THE/DRAGON

Births, Marriages and Deaths. Remarks by the Colonel of the '• Births. Regiment on Remembrance Day, Duffy:—2847504 itt.-MJr, H. Duffy, “H.Q.,” 1931. ' ' a daughter,' Jeati Audrey, born at Shorn- TD EMEMBRANCE Day, 1931 will not be cliff e, 24/7/31. J-u forgotten by those who were fortunate Fawcett.— 6278391 C.S.M. G. Fawcett, ", A” enough to be present. a daughter. Daphne, born, at Shorncliffe, The parade on the Depot Square was a ,/ ; 15/7/3 1 ' marvellous sight: The members on parade H^rt ,^-TT-On July.. 25th; 1931, to Lily (nee easily exceeded all past records. This was . , Kelloway),. wife of. A. E. Hart, late. The wonderful in view of the terrible weather : Buffs, a daughter. and widespread unemployment, but it was Thirst;—6278663 Pte. G; Thirst, 2nd Battalion yet another example of the Buff spirit. The Buffs, a son, John Vincent, born at The service in the Cathedral, conducted • ' Shorncliffe; 16/7/31. by our Chaplain, the Dean of Canterbury, was wonderfully impressive and nothing could have been finer than the rendering of Chopin’s • Marriage. Funeral March by the 2nd Battalion Band Davis—Weatherley.—6195168 L/Cpl. C. Davis, and the sounding of the “ Last Post1” and :i “B/v married to Ivy Weatherley at the “ Reveille ” by the 2nd Battalion Buglers. • Registry Office, St. Pancras, London, on The march past—in the rain—after the .. 4/4/31. ; , : service will be difficult to efface from the Green—Barton.—On August 18th, 1931, at memories of those who saw it—the Chelsea Gillingham Parish Church, by the Rev. Pensioners, the Duke of York's School Buff ‘ / C. Webb,Thomas Edward Green, M. A., B.Sc., lads, the 2nd and 4th Battalion Detachments, ‘ only son of Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Green of the Detachments from the Branches and the Court Lodge Farm, Gillingham, to Ada Depot all marching with one thought— Ethel Barton, B:A,, only daughter of The Regiment. Captain and Mrs. A. Barton of Napier Road, Many people have earned the gratitude : Gillingham. of us all for their work on this'great day, but I think that our special thanks are due Diamond Wedding. to Colonel Findlay for his perfect arrange­ M artin-A tkins—Phillips.—On August 2nd, ments for feeding such a vast gathering of 1871, at Christ Church, Lancaster Gate, Buffs and to Colonel Thomson for all the W., by the Rev. C. R. Powys, assisted by staff work he did to bring about such highly the Rev. William Wyld, Rector of Wood- successful results. botoUgh, Wilts/ Ernest Edwin, The Buffs, Buffs who were not present may rest assured East Kent Regiment, third son of the late that the Regimental flag was kept flying E. Martin-Atkins, of Kingston Lisle, Berks, mast high on Remembrance Day, 1931. to Adela Millicent, second daughter of A. L y n d e n -B e e e , the late John S. Phillips, of Culham House, : Abingdon, Berks. Colonel of The Buffs.

Death. The bride, who was given away by her father, wore Crum p.—At the Married Families Hospital, a long beige lace gown with a picture hat to match Mingaladon, on July 18th,. 1931, Elsie and carried a bouquet of deep pink roses, which together - Crump, wife of Sgt. H. Crump, 1st Battalion with that of the bridesmaids, was a wedding present from Alderman and Mrs. H. Hepworth. The bride The Buffs.. ■ was attended by Miss Eva Brading, B.A., whose gown matched the bride’s flowers. The duties of best man were ably carried out by the Rev. S. M. Epps, and Wedding. afterwards a reception was held at the home of the bride’s parents. . A quiet but pretty wedding was solemnized at the Parish Church on Thursday, August 18th, both the Over fifty presents were received, including a coffee bride and bridegroom being members of well-known set from the bridegroom’s colleagues at East Sheen local families. The contracting parties were Miss County School and a clock from the girls of Ripon Ethel. Barton, B.A., daughter of Captain and Mrs. A. High School, Yorks., where the bride has been a member Barton of Napier Road, Gillingham, and Mr. Thomas of the staff. Edward'Green, M.A., B.Sc., son of Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Eater the happy couple left for Dorset, where the Green of Court bodge Farm, Gillingham. honeymoon is being spent. At Canterbury iP. J. Sinclair, 101 Norths’ate Street, Canterbury. th August, 1931. 300. THE -DRAGON fair sex in the town where their recruits are trained, In June, 1918 the cadre returned to England, the " The Lass of Richmond Hill ” is one of the marches battalion was restored to full strength, and in October, played by The Green Howards. Their official, quick­ 1918 embarked at Dundee for North Russia to protect step is "The Bonnie English Rose.” THe 'regiment Murmansk against the Bolsheviks. It would be hard has the uncommon privilege of possessing its own special to imagine a greater contrast than the conditions under Funeral March—said to have been presented to Major- which the 6th Green Howards served—wearing shirts, General Howard when he visited Vienna on a shorts and pith helmets on the burning sands of Egypt; diplomatic mission. then, in khaki serge and steel helmets in the rain and mud of Flanders; and finally, clad in sweaters, In 1875, while the regiment -was at Sheffield, H.R.H. " parkas,” hoods, mitts, and fur caps, enduring the the Princess of Wales presented new Colours, and rigours of a Russian winter, within the Arctic circle. consented to the regiment being known as " The . The 13th Green Howards, originally raised as _ a Princess of Wales’s Own.” On July 1st, 1881 the old “ Bantam ” battalion and known as “ The Yorkshire title of the 19th Foot was discarded in favour of " The Gurkhas,” after service on the Western front, Princess of Wales's Own, Yorkshire Regiment,” and' accompanied the 6th to North Russia and joined General to the dismay, of all connected with the regiment, its Ironside's force at Archangel. facings were changed from the historic shade of green • Sixty-four Battle Honours and Thirteen Victoria to the white which was made compulsory for all English Crosses have been awarded to the regiment. Since line regiments now known as " Royal.” the end of the Great War the Green Howards have In 1885 the regiment took part in the Soudan taken part in minor operations in China and Palestine. campaign including the Battle of Ginniss, notable as The 19tli Foot were the first regiment of infantry of the, last battle in. which the red, coat was,worn by the line to have a drum and fife band, this being started British soldiers. In July, 1890, while stationed at in 1747, and they can also claim credit for having re­ Portsmouth, the 1st Green Howards received sudden' introduced drums and fifes into the American Army, (and totally unexpected) orders to entrain for London where they had been discontinued for many years. the same night. On arrival they marched to Welling­ While serving with the Shanghai Defence Force in 1927 ton Barracks, and immediately took over many of the 1st Green Howards undertook the training of a the duties usually done by the Household Brigade. drum and fife band for the 4th Battalion United States These duties were performed in such a manner as to Marines. By the time The Green Howards were re­ earn’ unusually glowing tributes from the Duke of called to England, their American pupils had made Cambridge and Lord Wolseley. In 1892-3, the 2nd enough progress to be able to play the regimental Battalion had 104 officers and men employed in an march, “ The Bonnie English Rose,” as the homeward expedition against the Kutchins (Burmah). A medal bound transport left Shanghai harbour. As a lasting and clasp was granted ten years later. token of gratitude, the 4th U.S. Marines presented the The 2nd Battalion took part in the Punjab Frontier 1st Battalion Green Howards with a handsome Drum and. Tirah expeditions, and the 1st Battalion in the Major’s Staff. Boer War. In 1899 the time-honoured green facings R . Ma u r ic e H im .. were restored, and in 1902 the title was amended to " Alexandra, Princess of Wales’s Own,” in order to perpetuate the name of the particular Princess in whose Commissions in the Regular Army. hoqpur the regiment was named. In 1903 the 2nd A rm y E n t r a n c e E x a m in a t io n . Battalion sent out a detachment of Mounted Infantry The War Office announces that the next Army to fight, against “ the Mad Mullah ” in Somaliland. Entrance Examination will begin on 17th November, During the Great War the regiment had twenty- 1931. There are open for competition at this four battalions. When the Great War commenced • examination not less than 85 Cadetships at the Royal the 1st Battalion was in India, and to the great dis­ Military Academy, Woolwich, and not less than 200 appointment of all ranks it was one of the British Cadetships at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Regular battalions retained in India throughout the To be eligible to sit for this examination, the age of a War, because the Authorities did not think it wise to candidate must be such that he will have reached the entirely denude the key-positions on the North West age of 18 years on 1st January, 1932, but will not have Frontier of Regular troops. Drafts were sent to other reached the age of 19 years on that date. battalions on the field from time to time, and finally, Forms of application may be obtained from the in the summer of 1919, the outbreak of the Third- Secretary, Civil Service Commission, Burlington Afghan War gave the 1st Green Howards a chance of Gardens, London, W.I., and should be completed and seeing active service. forwarded to the Commission in time for delivery on The 2nd Green Howards, being stationed in the or before 23rd September, 1931. Channel Islands, did not form part of the original British Expeditionary Force. In October, 1914 they landed at Zeebrugge with the 7th Division. The first 2nd Battalion, The Buffs. prisoners captured by the regiment were members of the The Battalion will be quartered in Chelsea Barracks, 19th German Hussars, and it was carefully explained to while carrying out the Public Duties in London during them that by a coincidence their captors were the 19th August and. September. British Regiment of Foot. The battalion earned great The time of arrival is 12 noon at Victoria Station glory, at a terrible cost, in the First Battle of Ypres. on August 24th, while arrangements for departure on Within a month of arriving in Belgium the 2nd Green September 12th have not yet been fixed. Howards were reduced to one captain, three second- The Public Duties will be found by the Battalion on lieutenants and less than three hundred men. the following dates: The 6th Green Howards, the first " Kitchener’s August 27th and 30th. Army ” battalion to .be added to the regiment in 1914, September 2nd, 5th, 8th and 11th. had an unusually varied experience, for after serving Guard Mounting on Chelsea Barracks Square takes in Gallipoli and Egypt they were brought to France place at 9.30 a.m. on these dates, while the Guards where heavy casualties reduced them to a “ training change at St. James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace cadre ” of 10 officers and 50 other ranks, who were at 10.30 a.m. approximately on the same dates and employed as instructors to the United States troops. also on each of the days following. THE DRAGON 301

Memories of an Old Buff. The, Adjutant’s Soldier Servant. At 7.15 next morning he fell in, with his nose No doubt Pte. Piper was, on the whole, an exemplary glistening' like a rose with the morning dew on it, and soldier. He had been the Adjutant’s servant for his serge was in such perfect condition that his Company twelve years, in fact ever since he joined they had shared Officer thought it belonged to his last issue, and told the ups and downs of a soldier's life, under varying the Colour-Sergeant to make a note for the Master conditions, and there was the kind of bond between tailor that the collar was too tight. So, taking every­ them which frequently arises when two men are brought thing into consideration, Pte. Piper was ' thankful into close association for any length of time. ' ' lie had dome to a right decision the evening before, In appearance Pte. Piper was a well set up man, or he might have been in the.soup again ! of over average height, and smart appearance, but It so happened that we were starting on manoeuvres there was one blemish, he had a prominent nose with that day in Hampshire. We 'belonged to the " blue a bulbous end to it, which in colour closely resembled army,” which was the attacking force, and ' knew an over-ripe tomato! Some said this was due to that we were in for a gruelling day, for the sun was indigestion, and others again (for this is an evil world) rising like a ball of fire, which foretold scorching weather. more than hinted at the fact that like a snipe, he lived On reaching the proximity of the enemy’s position, principally on suction ! we extended in skirmishing order and advanced by On one occasion, when twitted by a young officer’s alternate rushes iip a steep incline,. and Pte. Piper, servant, he explained it himself in the following words :— who had always been a bit of a wag in his way, between his gasps for . breath, was heard to say : " I say, mate, “ My lad, it would take you fourteen years' service, I’ve ’e^rd tell of the ’ampshire Downs,, but they forgot a clean sheet, and two good conduct badges, to grow to mention the bally h’ups ! ” However, our attack a nose like that, and then }rou couldn't do i t ! ” was apparently unexpectedly successful, which, as our But no doubt this was his little joke. I must say Commander was the General, who perpetrated " ciever here, however, that except on the occasion to which minor, tactics ” to the eternal confusion of an unborn I am about to refer, his conduct had always been generation of British subalterns, was, I suppose, a exemplary. On this occasion, the previous day being foregone conclusion. , ; the last pay day in the month, and a good balance We duly retired to recuperate in a deep-cut shady having come his way, I am afraid the temptation to lane, with nut trees meeting overhead, and sqme very celebrate, a rather unusual event, was.too much for hard army biscuits and, cheese Was issued by way of him, and that he exceeded his usual allowance of light refreshment. When the Orderly Sergeant, who “ dog’s nose,” which was, I believe, what his favourite was issuing them out ,of h,is helmet,, came to Piper, beverage was called. he said: “ No thanks, Sergeant, them biscuit^ are Anyhow, he was late in bringing the Adjutant’s too rich for me, as I ’ave a delicate stummick,” which shaving water next morning, or rather he put an empty made the company laugh and forget the hardness of can on the floor, in the middle of the room, under the the biscuits, anyway ! impression he was doing so, and when the Adjutant, On the way home, in the evening,. after a heavy on discovering it, felt naturally rather irritated and day, two or three of the younger men fell out, over­ forcibly remonstrated, he made some idiotic excuse. come by the heat, but. Pte. Piper, though dead-beat The next thing that happened was that the Adjutant himself, was not amongst them, indeed, he was carrying was unable to find his braces, and again he pointed out, two rifles most of the time and leading the pompany with emphasis, that Pte. Piper ought to have guessed singing, but his cheeriness and grit covered a sore he would want them, to which Pte. Piper replied that heart, for he was fond of the Adjutant, .in his way, that was so, for he was not so bad at guessing, for, to and felt that through his fatal fondness for liquor, put it into his own words : “ When I sees h’eggshells, after years of good service, he had let. him down, and I guesses h'eggs ; and when I finds an ’airpin—.” his pride was touched. It was fortunate for him that at this moment he got a Next moaning, after the prisoners had been told glimpse of the Adjutant's face, and realised at once off, Pte. Piper expressed a wish to see the Commanding that he had gone too far. So the latter sentence Officer, and was marched in. The C.O. asked him what remained unfinished, for he had seen that look in his he wanted, and with a sob far back in his throat, he master’s eye which we all knew well and which meant said : “ Please, sir, I want to return to my duty.” that someone was going to be put on the carpet! The C.O. and the Adjutant exchanged, a look, and Our Adjutant, though one of the very best of fellows, often looks mean a lot, in the Service, and the Sergeant- and with the kindest of hearts, was, nevertheless, a Major said : “ Right turn, left wheel,. quick march,” very rigid disciplinarian. Nothing more, however, and then it was over. ■ was said, at the moment, but the braces were eventually When Pte., Piper returned to the barrack room, found, after staff parade had fallen in, in the toe of the first thing that met his eye was a recruit gaping his jack-boot! at him. Still determined not to shew his real feelings, That evening, just before “ Last Post,” when he said: “ Look 'ere, young feller, just 'qp it to. the Pte. Piper was in the act of unstrapping his blankets, orficers’ kitchen and bring me down my family 'eirlooms. the Orderly Corporal put his head in at the door and You’ll find them lying on the grand pianny ! ” called-out his name, and having received a reply, said : ‘‘ Pte. Piper, you’ll be for parade to-morrow, in field day order,” and he knew full well that he was “ for it,” for the Adjutant’s servant was not, as a rule, warned for field days ! Royal Hospital, Chelsea. Before he went to sleep, though he was not very His Majesty the King has been pleased to approve clear-headed at that time of night, he endeavoured of the appointment of General Sir Walter P. Braithwaite to unravel the problem of whether the red serge he used G.C.B., retired pay, as Governor of the Royal Hospital, for clean fatigue would pass muster with his Company Chelsea, in succession to the late General the Rt. Hon. Officer, or whether it would have to be the serge which Sir Neville G. Lyttelton, G.C.B., G.C.V.O., with effect belonged to the last issue but one. from October next. THE DRAGON Canterbury Cricket Week, 1931. QNCE again I have been honoured by . a .request The title of this year’s Epilogue was “ Full from the Editor of The Dragon to write some­ speed ahead or How’s that Umpire ? ” I can hear thing, for the benefit of Buffs abroad, about the Can­ Dragon readers abroad saying " I wonder if it was as terbury Cricket Week. I will begin by saying at once good as when I last saw it ? ” I leave the answer to that the week was, from the Regimental point of view, an expert—the dramatic critic of one of a leading a huge success in spite of the fact that the Clerk of the London Paper who says : " The oldest of all the Old Weather and Tich Freeman combined to deprive us Stagers, was heard to declare that he had never heard of two-days’ Cricket. The first match against Somerset a better Epilogue—I agree.” finished very shortly after 3 o’clock on Monday, August Major Ratcliffe Ellis certainly excelled himself as 3rd with , a victory for Kent by 8 wickets, thanks to the writer of this Epilogue. He displayed the same Freeman’s clever bowling and there was no more ingenuity as ever in making allusions—most of them cricket for a day and a half. We turned up again on containing shamelessly far-fetched puns—to every kind Wednesday, August 5th, for the Derbyshire match. of happening. In one short passage of dialogue he Kent went in and made 299 and we saw a delightful polishes off Empire Marketing, the tariff, Irish Sweep- innings, of 99 by A. M. Crawley. Oh that he could stakes, changes in the Cabinet and Maurice Chevalier. play oftener for the County ! On this subject our old But it is in his lyrics that Major Ellis is greatest. There friend “ Plum ” Warner writes in the Morning Post: were a great many excellent songs, but perhaps I may be " Were he to take part regularly in first class cricket forgiven for mentioning one—namely a duet by two no distinction would be beyond him.” Derbyshire Victorians (Major Ellis himself and Mrs. Bartlett) finished the day with their score at 63 for 3. It was, which goes to a tune resuscitated from " The Quaker in sharp* contrast to the icy wind of Monday, a real Girl.” These are two figures from the past and demand steamy day and some of our 1st Battalion fellows at the end of each lugubrious verse " Well, what would were comparing the heat with that of Rangoon and the Mr. Gladstone say to that ? ” This brings me to the Andaman Islands. In the evening a tremendous performance of the only Buff lady, unfortunately, in storm of rain broke over the whole of England. The the show. The dramatic critic of the Daily Telegraph, north got it very badly and we in the south got a more referring to the question asked in the duet just or les$ mild dose, but no play was possible at Canter­ mentioned says:—“ I am inclined to ask the same bury on Thursday, the 6th of August until 2.15 p.m. question myself concerning one of the best .turns, and then'only for 1J hours when down came the, rain Miss Vera Lynden-Bell’s' acrobatic dance. In Mr. again and play was abandoned for the day with the Gladstone’s time if young ladies were able to tie their score—Kent, 299; Derbyshire, 85 for 5. backbones into knots they concealed the fact. The On Friday, the 7th August, the weather conditions loss, I hasten to say, was Mr. Gladstone’s.” were perfect and the only question from the Cricket Space forbids me from saying any more about the point of view was whether the wicket would enable Epilogue except that it was a top-hole show which I Tich Freeman and Marriott to dispose of Derbyshire wish you Buffs who are abroad could have seen. * I and thus produce 15 points for Kent in the County hope you will be able to see the next Epilogue. Championship. In this they just failed, for after dis­ And now to turn to the so-called “ social side ” of missing Derbyshire in their first innings for 125, the the week from the Regimental, point of view. Our sun refused to shine on the wicket and help Tich and enclosure and lunch tent were , admired by everyone— the match ended in a draw with Derbyshire, scoring and justly so. The enclosure, as was remarked to me 208 for 7 wickets. Consequently Kent only took by a prominent official of the Kent County Cricket first innings points. Club, with a. wink, seemed larger than usual. The So much for the Cricket. Next come the theatrical portion of it nearest the playing ground was adorned shows. Our friends, the Old Stagers, were in great form. by a brand new Buff and Blue awning—with the best Incidentally, 25 of them lunched with us at our tent on Buff I have seen for a , long time—for which we are Wednesday, the 5th of August. Among other Old indebted to Colonel Findlay. The enclosure and the Stagers present were:—Lady Crutchley, looking as Luncheon tent were most beautifully decorated with charming and as young as ever, Miss Margaret Hulston, flowers by Mrs. Findlay and her able helpers, Mrs. Miss Diana Churchill, Mrs. Gerald Crutchley, Miss Vallance and Miss Patience Ronald, Mrs. Eric Neame, Audrey Frere, Miss Armstrong-J ones, Colonel Hawkes, Mrs. Friend and Mrs. Thomson. A new and pleasing Majors Clarke-J ervoise and Ratcliffe ElKs and our old feature at the Enclosure was, that at the entrance to friend, Mr. Alick Tassell (Bell roper) looking quite fit it were two very smart Sergeants from The Depot again. Apart from the enjoyment they gave us at dressed in Red. This was Colonel Thomson's idea. lunch the Old Stagers, as, usual, put up a really fine We had many hundreds of visitors to our Enclosure programme at the theatre, though we missed from the and Luncheon Tent. Among others who came were caste the names of Major Hardy with his inimitable Field Marshal Sir William Robertson, The Dean of drollery and Major Tomlinson as "O.C. noises." We Canterbury, Sir Henry Streatfeild, Lord Plender and all hope to see them performing again next year. The Lord Hardinge. But we sadly missed Lord Harris Old Stagers played on Saturday, August 1st, Monday, and the Regiment sent him a. message to this effect 3rd and Wednesday, 5th, Noel Coward’s “ Hay Fever ” and received a charming reply. We are all delighted with a curtain raiser “ Rococo ” by Granville Barker to hear that Lord Harris is making excellent progress and on Tuesday, the 4th and Thursday, 7th Charming and shall look forward eagerly to seeing him next Pollock’s " The Sign on the Door ” which was followed Cricket Week. on the latter night by the Epilogue. As regards the Now I come to an important point. Buffs overseas plays, they are so well-known that a description of will be impatiently asking : " After all this rigmarole them would be boresome to Dragon readers. It is who of our people were at the Week ? ” Well, here is sufficient to say that they were performed in the Old a list of some of them :— Stagers’ very best style. A word or two about the Major-General Sir Arthur, Lady, Miss and Mr. P. Epilogue may, however, not be out of place because Lynden-Bell, Brig.-General, Mrs. and Miss McDouall, no one can know anything about it—in fact the author Colonel Trevor, Colonel and Mrs. Findlay, Colonel and of it (Major Ratcliffe Ellis) told me that he himself Mrs. Howard Smith, Colonel. and Mrs. .Crookenden, knew nothing about it until a week before the perfor­ Colonel and Mrs. Thomson, Colonel and Mrs. Buttan- mance. shaw, Colonel and Mrs. Lucas, Colonel Sparrow, Major THE DRAGON 303

Regimental Cricket Week. 17th to 22nd August.

'THIS week, now constituted as a Regimental rather However, Tuesday was fine and the sight of the sun than a Depot week, was arranged for the third gladdened us, so that we were quite prepared for a good week in August. As the first two weeks had been up to day’s cricket and this we got. Owing to stubborn sample for the rest of the summer, we hoped that this batting by 2/Lieut. Gilford and Bandsman Nelthorpe,! week would have given us better luck. After the our innings closed only 11 runs behind our opponents torrential rain, however of Remembrance Day, Monday and at one time we were hoping to get a lead. was fine, but cold and with half a gale of wind, so that ! Band of Brothers went in for an hour before lunch only with difficulty were the tents and awnings kept and runs came so freely that our hearts sank again, as in place. -On this day the Officers of the Depot were 100 went up for the loss of one wicket only ; however, At Home to their friends, and over a hundred braved the thanks to the sun, which worked on the wicket, and inclement weather and watched the cricket until tea, Captain Wilkins’ bowling they were all out at 4 p.m. for during which a further storm put off all possibility of 168, leaving us 180 or a few more to get. The tea further play for the day. interval was then taken and with 2J hours left for play. Concerning the play. Band of Brothers was the match Captain Wilkins and 2/Lieut, Tuff started off our 2nd- and thanks to 2/Lieuts. Walker and Gilford of our innings,. The outstanding feature 'of this was 2/Lieut. Supplementary Reserve, Band of Brothers were all Tuff's century, Lieut. Connolly scored 36 in quick time, out for 125, although, at one time they had 70 on the and although Captain Wilkins only got 8/:by his steady board for the loss of .one wicket. When rain brought defence for three-quarters-of-an-liour, he helped to play to a close we were in a depressed mood as five of tire the Band of Brothers' bowlers. our best wickets were down for 22 runs. *I So ended the first match with a grand win. We all turned hopefully towards the next match, with the. Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment; but. an ominous halo round the sun did not promise well, arid, Continued from page 302. on Wednesday and Thursday torrential rain and wind made play completely impossible. The opposing; George Hamilton, Major and Mrs. Booth, Major team came, but nothing could be done, and aftet count­ Hickman, Major and Mrs. Whitaker, Major and Mrs. less inspections of the wicket, the match was .called! Stronge, Major and Mrs. Tylden-Patterson, Mrs. and off a t 2 p.m. on Thursday, : \ Miss Ronald, Captain and Mrs. Baird, Captain and Mrs. On Friday and Saturday our opponents ^.werd tlie Willows, Captain and Mrs. Terry, Captain and Mrs. East Kent Ramblers, wild brought a ; strong: side Webster, Captain and Mrs. Watson, Captain Sandilands, captained by G. A. Simpson, the skipper of the’County? Captain and Mrs. Wale, Captain and Mrs. Tuke, Captain 2nd XL, who included in his te.am an old friend h i Wood, Captain Andrews, Major Poster, Mr. Walters, Captain Cramer-Roberts. Once again we lost the toss Colonels Burns and Body, Colonel and Mrs. Collard, and having got 5 wickets down for 78 looked like getting Mrs. Hughes D’Aeth (Miss Evelyn Kelly), Major them out cheaply, but let the opportunity slip and they Tomlinson, Major and Mrs. Eric Clarke, Mr. King, scored 159. * Captain and Mrs. Dampier Palmer, Captain George Play continued up till 6.15 p.m. when a slight shower Howe, Mr. Jelf, Mr. Coates, Major and Mrs. Morgan, stopped our not very brilliant display. In our first Captain and Mrs. Hammond-Davies, Captain and Mrs. innings Captain Wilkins was first in and eighth out, Wilson, Captain Rowe, Mr. Rose, Mr. H. P. Williams, scoring 30 runs. The next highest was Extras with 16, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. F. W. B. Parry, Mr. Noel Reeves, and none of our other batsmen reached double figures, Major and Mrs. Reeves, Mr. Craddock, Mr. Tuff, Captain’ though we were told the team had ho. tail and were and Mrs. Lloyd Hardcastle, Major and Mrs. Dean, batsmen down to number ten, or was it eleven. > Mr. Brooke, Mr. Green, Mr. Bruce, Captain Coote, Saturday morning was fine and warmer than the Colonel Dunstan, Colonel Bradley-Dyne, Colonel and previous day .when we had all shivered in coats. Once Mrs. Friend, Major H. S. Hardy, Mrs. Meakin, Mrs. more the Ramblers made 159, and once again we Ravenhill, Major and Mrs. Norman, thought they would be out for less ; 7 wickets were . This story has already run to inordinate length down for 96 runs, but Bandsman Nelthorpe, who'was and I expect the long-suffering Editor of The Dragon playing in place of one of their team who had been will have quite justly, used his blue pencil freely, but called away, began to hit Captain Wilkins' bowling, I cannot stop without expressing the very grateful and this so encouraged the later batsmen that they got thanks of our Canterbury Cricket Week Club to various the same total as in the first innings. This left us with people. 236 runs to get, and we all hoped to see the same-sort of batting as in the 2nd innings against the Band of- First and foremost to Colonel Findlay for his splendid Brothers. But it was not to be, Captain Wilkins again arrangements for our comfort. They were deeply and Lieut. Jelf were the only ones together with Extras appreciated by us all and could not have been improved as 3rd highest scorer, and so the week ended. on. We also are greatly indebted to Mr. Foster and Four days cricket in six was good for the present so- the 2nd Battalion Band—which played most called summer and many weeks have not been so lucky. beautifully and kept the show going when things looked It only remains to add that on the first night of each like ‘ fizzling out ’ and Colonel Thomson and his Depot match the teams dined with the Regiment in the Depot Staff. Sgt. Goodwin and his assistants worked, as Mess, and that at both at dinner and on the. ground usual, indefatigably. Buffs abroad will be delighted the 2nd Battalion Band kept us cheered by music,; to know that Sgt. Goodwin having finished his Colour After the Depot At Home on the .first day, teas Service is now installed as Civilian Steward at the Depot were served in tents on the ground, about fffty came Mess. each day to the Officers’ enclosure and a similar number And so cheerio and au re voir till next Cricket Week. to the Sergeants. The: Wasp. Scores of both matches are overleaf:— • . 304 T h e d r a g o n Band of Brothers v. The Buffs.

P. J. Sinclair, 101 Northgale Street, Canterbury.

i iir Buffs v . Band of Brothers. T h e B u f f s v . East Kent Ramblers. Played at Canterbury, 17th and 18tli August, 1931. Played at Canterbury, 21st and 22nd August. Band o r B rothers. East K ent R amblers. 1st Innings. 2nd Innings. 1st Innings. 2nd Innings. M. F. Kemp, c & b Gilford...... 31 c Harwood, b Connolly...... 47 Capt. Cramer-Roberts, b Gilford 4 b Tuff...... 1 D.A.T.Standring,cIIarwood,b Tuff 2 b Wilkins...... 16 Capt. B. G. Allen, lbw, b Wilkins 31 Sub., lbw, b Connolly...... 11 B.G.Whitfield,c Gilford,b Wilkins 29 c Harwood, b Gilford...... 45 D. A. Standring, e Jelf, b Hammond G. de E. Hough, c Harwood, b 13 b Wilkins...... 24 Gilford...... 27 c Morgan, b Connolly...... 11 A. G. W. Hill, c Tuff, b Gilford 4 lbw, b Wilkins...... 17 J. T. Neve, st Morgan, b Walker 0 b Walker...... 22 Capt. W. S. Kelly, c Harwood, b X,. A. F. Wcigall, c King, b Gilford 4 b Wilkins...... 7 Wilkins...... 13 b Wilkins...... 25 D. N. Watney, b Walker...... 0 c Nelthorpe, b Wilkins...... 3 G. A. Simpson, b Wilkins...... 41 b Connolly...... 2 R. O. Arrowsmitli, notout...... 11 not out...... 7 Capt. G. A. Macnab, b Connolly 16 b Hammond...... 7 Col. ffreneli-Blake, b Gilford..... 6 b Walker...... 5 Capt. J. R. Willows, b Wilkins . 5 e & b Connolly...... 3 J. Abrahams, b Walker...... 2 lbw, b Wilkins...... 0 C. McCauslaud, not out...... 13 c Whitfield, b Gilford...... 32 Capt. C. H. Borthwick, c Tuff, b Capt. T. Wall, b Connolly...... 6 b Gilford...... 29 Walker...... 4 lbw, b Wilkins...... 1 R. H. Uniacke, c Harwood, b Extras...... 9 Extras...... 4 Wilkins...... 4 not out...... 4 Extras...... 8 Extras...... 4 Total...... 125 Total...... 168 Total...... 159 Bowling. Total...... 159 1st I n n i n g s .—Gilford, 4-29; Tuff, 1-28; Nelthorpe, 0-12; Wilkins, 1-21 ; Connolly, 0-4 ; Walker, 4-22. Bowling. 2nd Innings. —Gilford, 1-41; Walker, 2-29; Connolly, 2-41; Gilford, 2-50 & 2-27 ; Hammond, 1-29 & 1-14 ; Wilkins, 5-54 Nelthorpe, 0-7 ; Wilkins, 5-37 ; Tuff, 0-9. & 3-56 ; Connolly, 2-18 & 3-47 ; Tuff (2nd innings), 1-11. The Buffs. Tin■: Buffs. 1st Innings. 2nd Innings. 1st Innings. 2nd Innings. Capt. D. A. Wilkins, b Neve...... 2 b Neve...... 8 Capt. Wilkins, b Macnab...... 30 c Kelly, b Macnab...... 50 Et. C. R. Tuff, lbw, b Neve...... 3 not out...... 103 Lieut. Tuff, b Macnab...... 1 lbw, b Macnab...... 1 Et. J. F. Connolly, b Neve...... 2 not out...... 36 Lieut. Connolly, b Kelly...... 6 b Macnab...... 8 Capt. H. S. Whitfield, e ffreneli- Capt. Whitfield, b Macnab...... 2 lbw Kelley...... 3 Blake, b Weigall...... 7 lbw, b Watney...... 12 Et. Gilford, b Macnab...... 8 run out...... 4 Et.G.E. Walker,c Watney,b Neve 16 c Standring, b Weigall...... 8 Lieut. Harwood, b Macnab...... 5 b Standring...... 2 Et. H. C. Harwood, b Neve...... 1 Lieut. Reeves, e McCauslaud, b Et. M. Gilford, lbw, b Neve...... 47 Macnab...... 4 b Standring...... 6 Bdstn. Nelthorpe, c ffreneli-Blake, Et. Jelf,c Kelly,b McCauslaud..... 3 c Wall, b Standring...... 44 b Hough...... 19 Et. King, c Kelli’, b McCauslaud 2 b Macnab...... 1 Capt. J. R. Willows, not out..... 7 Major Morgan, not out...... 5 b Standring...... 8 Et. J. E. King, b Hough...... 0 Pte. Hammond, b Macnab...... 0 not out...... 3 Major H. de R. Morgan, c Wat­ Extras...... 16 Extras...... 22 ney, b Hough...... 1 Extras...... 9 Extras...... 0 Total...... -...... 82 Total...... 152 Total. 114 Total for 3 wKts...... 191 Ramblers won by 84 runs. THE DRAGON 305

The Buffs Golfing Society. Correspondence. Autumn Meeting. Birmingham, HPHANKS to the kindness of the Committee and August 15 th, 1931. members of Royal St. George's Golf Club, the The Editor, “ The Dragon.” Society will hold their ninth autumn meeting over their course on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, October Dear Sir, 6th, 7th and 8th, the first day being given up to practice. I have been staying a week in London on my And on Friday the 9th there will be a match against holidays, spending most of my time sight-seeing. I Prince’s. thought that I should like to pay a visit to the Tate Competitions. Gallery. Of course I wasn’t lucky enough to get in free, as it wasn’t a free day, but I was very pleased The Competitions will be :— I dropped in after all, for I ran into a very old " Buff,” (a) Paget Cup. 36 holes medal play under handi­ Billy Coveney. We had plenty to taik about .old cap, 18 holes being played on the morning of each day. times, especially being surprised at meeting each other. (b) The best gross score over 36 holes to be played He told me he had entered for Colonel Findlay’s Billiard concurrently with {a). Cup and was going very strong. I told him I had been (c) Senior Medal. The best 18 holes on either day an old player myself and would give him some practice for those with a handicap of 13 and over. whilst in London. We arranged to meet at the Club (d) Junior Medal. Same as above for those with a that evening where another old Buff was Steward— handicap of 14 and over. Cushy Bolton). We had some very exciting games (e) Lynden Bell Trophy. 18 holes Bogey Com­ and pleased to say we both finished up level with three petition on the afternoon of first day. victories each to our credit. Of course there was the (/)■ Bogey Foursomes on afternoon of second day, usual leg-pulling by Spud Austin, Donkey Warren and partners by mutual arrangement. Cushy, Bolton, all being 1st Battalion; poor Billy '{§) Veterans' Cup, Eclectic Competition in aid Coveney had no friends from the 2nd Battalion to of the Benevolent Fund, running throughout Tuesday, cheer him up, but we all parted good friends as old Wednesday, and Thursday morning) for those of 50 Buffs always do. I wished him every success in the years of age and over. Cards one shilling each. Championship when I left for Brum. (h) Youngsters' Cup. Same as above for those over I was very much surprised and also very pleased to 50. see my photo in the August Dragon, taken with Drum- Entrance Fee. Major Featherstone and Drums, 1st Battalion at The entrance fee to be paid in advance, but return­ Richmond Barracks, Dublin, 1884, as a little Drummer able in the case of non-attendance, will be 10/-. There Boy. I wonder how many of us are left ? will be no green fee. Yours faithfully, , Annual General Meeting and Dinner. Sailor Co6per. The annual general meeting followed by the annual dinner will take place at 7.30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6th. Time and place to be notified later. Agenda. 1. Appointment of Vice-President, Captain and Buffs Golfing Society —Continued. Hon. Secretary under Rule IV (2). 2. Minutes. 4. Handbook:—During the year the Society's 3. Hon. Secretary’s report. handbook has been brought up-to-date and a copy 4. Handicapping for Eclectic Competition. sent to all members. 5. Prizes. 5. Ties and Umbrellas :—At the Spring Meeting 6. Vote of thanks to Royal St. George’s and it was decided that the Society should have its own tie. Prince's. These have been obtained and supplied to the majority 7. Any other business. of playing members. The Society might now like to Notes. Members wishing to bring any matter up consider having its own umbrella. at the meeting are requested to notify the Hon. Secretary 6. Veterans' and Youngsters’ Cups:—Eclectic not later than September 30th. Competitions in aid of the Benevolent Fund for the Suggestions for prizes to take the place of ash trays Veterans' and Youngsters' cups presented by Captain will be welcomed. H. H. C. Baird and Colonel W. H. Trevor respectively, have been initiated this year, and, as a result of the Honorary Secretary’s Report. Autumn and Spring Meetings, the sum of £12 5s. Od. 1. Membership:—On August 21st the number has been handed over to the Fund. of Members was 164, showing an increase of 5 on the 7. Arrangements for next year The Committee total of last year. recommend that, provided sanction can be obtained, 2. Matches :—Since last Autumn Meeting the the Spring Meeting shall be held at Prince's and the Society has played 11 matches, winning 7, losing 2 and autumn meeting at Royal St. George’s. Also that the halving 2. annual match against the Royal West Kent Regiment 3. The Army Golfing Society Meeting:—The shall, if possible, be played at Prince’s. records of the Society would not be complete if mention Finance On August 21st the amount standing to were not made of the success of Lieut. Noel Reeves in the credit of the Society was £14 13s. 8d. being a winning the Army Championship ; of the 2nd Battalion decrease of £2 17s. 8d. compared to last year. This entering two teams for the inter-unit competition, has been caused by the revision of the handbook which, one of which reached the semi-final; of Lieut. C. exclusive of postage for circulation, cost just over £5.' Haggard being runner up in the handicap event; and of a team. of retired officers entering for the Argyll Henry H. C, Baird, and Sutherland Cup for the first time and featuring in the final against the Black Watch without having Captain, played a previous match; Hon. Secretary. 306 THE . DRAGON

Howfield Manor, Regimental Motto. Chartham, In last month’s Dragon there appeared a question Canterbury, as to the origin of our Regimental motto. It was ■ • . August 16 th, 1931. suggested that perhaps it might be the end of an Dear Colonel Findlay, ■■■•■> heameter by Virgil or some other later poet. We I have just returned from the Cathedral Service have consulted the highest classical experts at Oxford of Remembrance for All Ranks ^of The Buffs. I have and Cambridge. The Oxford replies have not yet been ah i?itimate .knowledge of the Cathedral'and its services received, but - the Cambridge experts are unanimous having presided at the, organ many times 37 years ago. in saying that “ Veteri frondescit honore ” does not but ! have neyer., in all those,years, been more impressed appear in the works of Virgil or any other well-known with the .solemnity-and the dignity of , its services, than Batin poet. Their view is that our motto was com­ I was. this-morning. ; , posed by some admirer of the’ Regiment in the 17th May i. be allowed to say that the Buffs’- band under century. its , Bandmaster, interpreted.-

Past and Present Association.

SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE.

The Parade.

By kind permission of “ The Daily Sketch ” and F. Bailey, Canterbury. Ashford Branch on Parade, 16th August. 3 0 8 THE DRAGON

]VriNUTES of the 96th Meeting of the Regimental D o n a t io n s . Committee and the Executive Committee of During the period 18/7/31 to 18/8/31 the following the Past and Present Association, The Buffs, held at donations have been made :— Canterbury on 2nd August, 1931, at 5.30 p.m. ' - J : P a st a n d P r e s e n t A s s o c ia t io n . P r e s e n t ? / s. d. • Brig.-General R. McDouall, C.B., C.M.G.. C.B.E., Doctor R. Pinhom ...... 1 1 0 D.S.O. (in the Chair). Colonel W. H. Trevor, D.S.O. . B e n e v o l e n t F u n d . Dieut.-Colonel B. S. Collard, T.D. £ s. f1- Bt.-Dieut.-Colonel A. B. Thomson, M.B.E. Captain J. J. Slattery ...... 1 1 0 , Captain B. E. Bammond-Davies, M.C. - Major A. StuartElmslie... ■ nv: 0 7 0 Colonel H. Findlay, C.B.E. (Secretary). Miss V. Lynden-Bell, proceeds of Minutes of the last meeting were approved and entertainment given at Maid­ signed by:the Chairman. ' . stone ...... 26 1 0 Buff : Pipecl AY.-pThe ‘Committee, haying viewed the buff, cloth both before and after being treated with the wet buff pijieclay, is of dpinioft that efforts should be made to get manufactured a pipieclay which would ■ D isbursements . more nearly produce the original colour, as it is . of During the period 18/7/31 to 18/8/31 the following opinion the present pipeclay produces a much too yellow disbursements have been made :— shade. ■ '• } !i £ s. d . : ' Canterbury Cricket Week Club.—It was decided Julv 20.' Grant ... .' :.i . 0 5 0 that a circular letter should be drafted and submitted, " 22. Grant ... ' ... 1 0 0 through the Chairman, to the Colonel of the Regiment 24. Grant .;. ... : ... 2 10 0 for approval, for circularisation to all members. 25. Grant ...... : ... 2 0 0 . . Correspondence. 30. Doan ...... 4 0 0 (а) It was decided that a donation of £2 should be Aug. ,4.. Grant ...: ...... 1 0 0 ; made, to the Employment Bureau for Disabled 4. Grant ...... 1 0 0 Soldiers and Sailors in Dubliii. 7. Grant ...... :/ ... 2 0 0 (б) It was decided that a grant of £2 should be made 10. Grant ..; ... 0 5 5 to the Ex-Regular Re-union of South Africa, the 10. Grant .../ ... 2. 0 0 object of which is to'ensure that no imperial 10. Grant .;...... ', 1 0 0 soldier shohid have a pauper’s funeral. (c) . The Committee'regretted that the suggestion put forward by the Dondon Branch, that sons of S Buffs who never actually enlisted, or received N e w M e m b e r s . ; commissions in the Regiment, might be con­ Life Members.—Major A. R. Dangdale Kelham ; sidered eligible to become full members of the Captains G. L. Lushington, W. Thomson H ill; Sergeant Association, could not be approved. R. Watson; D/Cpl. C. W est; Pte. H. Smith; Mr. (d) The Committee regretted that funds did not permit J. Dayton. of a pension being made to the widow of the Annual Members.—Privates A. T. Austin, N. T. late Sergeant ------who was not a member of Bailey, E. F. Barnes, S. A. Battams, D- E. Biggs, A. C. the Association. Brookman, W. F. Burton, E. W. Emptage, H. S. Epps, Ypres Road, Planting of Trees.—The Committee D. J. Good, F. Harris, A. Heather, R. F. F. Hoare, regretted that funds were not available for this purpose, M. Haward, G. V. Dancaster, H. E. Manser, P. C. but approved of a notice being inserted in The Dragon Nelligan, B. W. Potter, R. Russell, E. G. Williams ; asking those interested in the scheme to forward Messrs. H. A. Church, W. B. Silverwood, W. Read, donations to the Secretary of the Association, to permit S. Gordon, T. G. Mitchell, J. O. Ounton, A. Sindon, of the planting being gradually carried out. W. Price, A. Bailey, A. Croft, W. H. Poole, F. T; H. Battlefield Tour.—The Committee is not in Godden, J. E. Williamson, A. G. Horlock, W. J. favour of this being an annual event, but suggested for Byrne, D.C.M., W. Fennell, H. W. Nowers, W. Kirk, the consideration of the Colonel of the Regiment; that S. Taylor, G. Burch, J. Fittall, F. H. Silk, H. Norris, a Tour might be Organised in about two years time, R. W. J. Watson, E. A. Pearson, H. F. Scott, G. H. by the Headquarters of the Association. Pain. REGIMENTAL MUSEUM.— A grant of /1 3 was Associate Members.—Messrs. E. G. Dong, D. N. approved, in connection with an outstanding bill, and Amos. purchase of further cases for the exhibits. National Association for Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen.—^-Tlie Committee further considered the Ashford Branch. question of subscriptions to the National Association, The Branch held their Monthly Meeting on Saturday, August 8th and was Unanimously of opinion that, everytliing possible at the Market Hotel, the meeting being well up to the average not­ withstanding the wet night. Mr. F. C. Stocker (Chairman), Mr. W. had now been done to assist the movement. Fuller (Vice-Chairman), Mr. E. H. Chambers (Secretary), Mr. A. F. Service of Remembrance.—The provisional Tomsett (Assistant Secretary) ; Mr. W. Clifford (Pianist). arrangements, in connection with the Service of The Chairman, in opening the meeting, thanked the members for the honour they conferred upon him by electing him as Chairman Remembrance were approved. of the Premier Branch, remarking that he was all out for the welfare The Minutes of the Sub-Committee Meeting, of the Bipnch.’ He then called upon the Secretary to read the Minutes of the last meeting, which were confirmed, also the Cash Account and; held at Canterbury on 11th July, were approved. Correspondence being accepted, a raUier large agenda was attacked The Secretary’s Travelling Expenses to date, and discussed in a thorough business-like way. amounting to £Q 19s. Od. were approved. One item which was unanimously agreed to was that the-Branch should entertain twelve nominated Members at the Re-union at Can­ NEXT Committee Meeting.—To be held at The terbury, who through illness, disability or age, would not have been Depot, Canterbury, on 5th October, 1931, at 11 a.m. able to meet old comrades. THE DRAGON 309

Some of the Officers present on August 16th. [Fisk-Moore. Left to Right— Capt. Andrews, Colonels Trevor and Findlay, Lord Goschen, Colonel Crookcnden, General Lynden-Bell, Colonels Burns and Messel, Capt. Donald, Gen. McDouall. I wish to remind all Members that the Branch Annual Parade and Folkestone Branch. Memorial Service takes place on Sunday, September 20th. Parade, 10 a.m., in the Market Place. The usual monthly meeting was held on Tuesday, August 11th, General Sir Arthur Lynden-Bell, K.C.B., K.C.M.G., has kindly when there was a good attendance of members. offered to place the Branch Wreath on the Memorial. A cordial The great event this month was, of course, the Memorial .Service invitation is extended to all Branches to take part in the Parade. at Canterbury on Sunday, August 16tli. Fifty members of this Branch Lunch will be provided at the Market Hotel, at 1 /6 each. paraded and in addition there were some 15—20 members of the F,.H.C. Ladies’ Guild present at the Cathedral. It was a magnificent parade, and the best thanks of all members of this Branch who were present are due to those responsible for the excellent organisation and the arrangements made which, in spite of the indifferent weather, made Medway Branch. a most successful event. Just one small grumble, Mr. Kditor. The Minutes for General Meeting held at the Headquarters on 25tli 2nd Battalion Band and Drums (doubtless in consideration of the July, 1931. Chelsea Pensioners and the elder or crippled members of the Branches) The Minutes of the previous Meeting were read and passed as correct kept a slower time than the regulation, whereas the Drums of the oil the motion of Mr. A. J. Shirley, seconded by Mr. H. Barnes. Arising 4tli Battalion in the middle of the procession beat the regulation time. from the Minutes the Chairman said that Mr. R. A. Attwood in his Your readers can readily understand that it is very difficult for those capacity as Treasurer to the Sports Committee had been written to, members of Branches who happen to be somewhat in the rear and but no answer had been received. near to the 4th Battalion Drums, for there is nothing more tiring A letter from the General Secretary drew the attention of all than to try and march to two different steps, and at many time the concerned to the undesirability of conducting draws for the purpose “ march ” developed into an amble. Possibly on some future occasion of raising funds and of one branch sending books to other branches. some agreement could be entered into on this point, which, I think, This letter was challenged by several Members present and Mr. would be more conducive to the comfort of all. Wheatley requested that the disapproval of the Branch be brought In accordance with this Branch’s policy for the summer mouths, forward at the next Sub-Committee Meeting. the next meeting will be held at the Sandwich Arms, Sandwich, on The Chairman gave a brief account of the march past recently Tuesday, September l()th, and if any of the members of other Branches held in London when all Branches paid their tribute at the Cenotaph. are in the neighbourhood we shall be pleased to welcome them. The The arrangements for the visit to Canterbury were marie known to time of arrival will be approximately 7.30 p.m. the'Meetiug and the orders for the day were read. Shudder. On the motion of Mr. Wheatley (which was passed unanimously) the sum of £ 5 was transferred from the Branch funds to the Dinner Fund. The same Speaker stated that arrangements for the proposed rally were in hand and that the children’s treat was also in course of Work for Discharged Soldiers. arrangement. A concert arranged by the Unity Club was afterwards attended by In May, 201 soldiers completed courses of instruction the Members and much appreciated by them. at the Army Vocational Training Centres. Of these, The usual collection amounted to 4/8, from the thirty members immediate employment was found for 120, and 16 present. A. Barton, students who had left in previous months were also C h a ir m a n . placed in employment. 310 THE DRAGON 1st Battalion. . HAVE . to open these Cross-country runs are a weekly event notes by tendering the at both Mingaladon and Sale Barracks. Ideepest sympathy of all Dance fiends have been delighting in All ranks of the battalion to Ranks Dances. Mrs.. Hart conjures up a Sgt. H. Crump in his great bevy of " Fay re Damozels.’’ who are not loss. Mrs. Crump died at allowed much rest. the Families’ Hospital, Min­ To turn to other more mundane ■ matters. galadon on July 18th. The The officer in charge of boxing and Major funeral, which, was on the Hart have been able to persuade Sgt. Quinn ; 19th, was attended by of the Burma Police, who is the holder of the the officers, married families Burma Amateur Middleweight Championship, and members of the Ser­ to go out to Mingaladon to train any boxing geants’ Mess. aspirants. His first visit was well attended, On August 4th seventeen after which interest flagged. It is not often, years will have passed since that a budding boxer can get the services the commencement of the of such an excellent instructor and it is to be greatest war that the world has up to the present regretted that more interest is not taken in ever had to suffer. One of the things that always this. It is not only the men who know how strikes me most,.is that when on parade how to box, but those who are novices that will few men one sees who have seen any war benefit. We are none of us too old to learn service. Yet at times it seems as if it' wag something new, and to consider that we know yesterday that the 1st Battalion was ploughing all about any form of sport is not the way to- through the mud of the Somme and Ypres. improve. Rain and an influenza epidemic have been Three excellent films have recently been the keynote of this month's activities. Happily shewn at the local cinemas. I refer to the former has not seriously interfered with “ Plunder,” “ Tons of Money” and “ The any games that have been arranged. At King of Jazz.” The first two were by the the same time, it turns all the grounds into celebrated Ralph Lynn and Tom Walls’ Com­ quagmires and makes it extremely hard to pany ; they were well worth seeing if only to control any kind of football. The local grounds hear English voices and to see the inimitable in Rangoon are fertilized with a special mixture combination of the two leaders supported by which has a most penetrating and lasting that wonderful character actress Mary Brough smell when one’s nose is imbedded deeply and the delectable Winifred Shotter. The in it. third film was of a totally different nature. Beautifully staged at what must have been, Both types of football have been well to colossal expense, it is full of good music and. the fore. The rugby team is learning to work beautiful ladies. Personally, I sometimes regret, together, and once the outsides can find their the old days when the flickers were not so- legs and hands, we have tlie makings of a very perfect but one was given exciting pictures- good team. The scrum is good and packs well of Red Indians, battle,, murder and sudden out, but they must learn the offside rule. t death, but the hero always came out on top. I enclose an account of the match between The Rangoon Turf Club has been running the Regiment and a team of the Gymkhana meetings once a fortnight. The, prices paid and Steele’s. out by the Tote are improving. The writer Two teams were entered from the battalion was lucky enough to pick one winner which, for the Seven-a-Side Tournament; one from paid rupees 51 to win and another which, Mingaladon and the other from Sale Barracks. paid 41 for a place. I saw Major Hart with, The Mingaladon team was unlticky enough .to a fist-full of notes at one time during, the last meet the probable winners and were beaten meeting which he had just drawn from the pay 16—0. The Sale . Barracks team met and window. , vanquished Gymkhana II. 6—0 and are now Burma has been stirred by the astounding to meet the Services on August 6th. story of the desperate fight between a man As to Association, I. enclose a very full and a 30 foot python. It resulted in the man. account of .the doings. of. the battalion team. being despatched, leaving pnly his loongyi In addition, on July 29th the first eleven met and his shoes behind as silent witnesses to the- the Burma Police in the return match and were- desperate struggle that he had put up. The unlucky enough'to lose by the odd goal in seven. snake was reported to have been killed and. 2nd Battalion taking over the Guart 27th August, ]

MAMYO SPORTS MEETING. DRAGON THE 316

The Buffs in the Tug-of-War. [By kind permission o The Rangoon Times.