'A part reading from the Midsummer Night Dream was then given, nearly all the members present taking part - after that Mr and Mrs Morland read a selection from Macbeth'.
Century: 1850-1899 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club members Print: Book
'The programme included [...] a Shakespearean reading in the garden from the Tempest in which many members and some visitors took part'
Century: 1850-1899 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club, and guests Print: Book
'After a period of refreshment A. Rawlings then read a paper on Ruskin as an art critic, in which he gratuituously attacked the literary style of Modern Painters with which the paper chiefly dealt. The style was condemned as quite unsuited to the subject by reason of its verbosity its looseness of expression & inexact terminology. This view met with strong dissent. Extracts were then read from Modern Painters showing the argument of the work which was criticised later'. [the critique is summarised]
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Print: Book
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The meeting held at the Lawn on March 27th was devoted to the reading of five minute anonymous essays of which the following is a list of the titles. Recollections of Childhood, Superstitions, On the Origin of Mourning, Procrastination, An Alpine Climb, Wanted a new Line of Temperance Work and De Pueris [?]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'various readings from George Eliot in character & otherwise were then given by members bringing a very pleasant meeting to a close.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Mrs Ridges followed with an address on Augustine Birrells Essays illustrated by copious illustrations selected from the two volumes which had just completed the rota'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'F.J. Edminson read a paper on Matthew Arnold with special reference to Literature & Dogma. Readings from both the prose & poetical works of Matthew Arnold were given by various members.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'A discussion of considerable interest took place on Rowntrees Poverty. Doubt was thrown by Mr Ridges and others upon the correctness of the bases of the argument of the book which were defended by Mr Edminson and others but apparently neither section was convinced by the other. [a discussion ensued comparing Reading with Rowntree's York]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book club Print: Book
'Illustrative readings from various [Russian] authors were given by members which elicited a considerable amount of discussion'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'Geo Meredith's Diana of the Crossways was the subject of the evening. H.M. Wallis read an essay on the work of Geo Meredith as a whole & also two pieces of his poetry. This gave rise to considerable discussion. W.J. Rowntree gave a resume of Diana of the Crossways illustrated by copious extracts from the book & other members also read from the book & his poems'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'There was a very full attendance & a lively discussion of the Departmental Committee's Report on Physical Deterioration was discussed in many of its bearings, introduced by C.E. Stansfield in a paper having special reference to the housing problem. It was generally considered that there was much more in the report offering material for interesting discussion so that the committee appointed to arrange the programme of the evening was continued with the addition of Mrs Wallis to prepare a programme for the next meeting'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'An excellent programme illustrative of R.L. Stevenson's work was then proceeded with. A biographical paper was read by H. R. Smith & a critical appreciation of the works by J. Ridges & selections by several members.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'Mr Smith read a paper on Shelley & Mrs Ridges selections from a paper by Dr Scott on the poet's literary characteristics while other members read selections from his works'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII book Club Print: Book
'Mr Binns then read a paper on W.S. Landor which was followed by a reading by Mrs Edminson, a paper by William [?] Harris & other readings by other members'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'A meeting of the Club & a large number of guests met at Manor House Earley [?] on the kind invitation of Mr & Mrs Heelas on July 6 1908 to witness a []performance crossed out] reading of W.S. Gilbert's Palce of Truth. It is due to the host & his family & the committee of performers to record here the great amount of care & preparation they took in presenting this piece'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club and friends Print: Book
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A varied series of anonymous essays were then read - with the following titles
The Love of a Nation
The Tiger & the Lady
Building
Quaker Stories
Henry Lawrence
The Pleasure of Winter Bathing
On Washing Seldom & then not much
Poetry'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Miss Marriage explained fully with aid of diagrams, Dante's progress through the Inferno, selections from which were read by other members. Mr Edminson read a paper on the Purgatorio which was also supplemented with readings by various members. A. Rawlings gave a few selections from Plumtree's [sic] notes on Dante, concerning the Paradiso.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Mebers of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Miss Marriage explained fully with aid of diagrams, Dante's progress through the Inferno, selections from which were read by other members. Mr Edminson read a paper on the Purgatorio which was also supplemented with readings by various members. A. Rawlings gave a few selections from Plumtree's [sic] notes on Dante, concerning the Paradiso.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme consisting of the following eight anonymous essays was then proceeded with. Viz A Theory of Language - Further East. Perpetual Motion - 2 Essays by different authors entitled A Vignette of Local History - Civilisation in the Nineteenth Century, The Court of Appeal & A Feat of Journalism. All proved of an interesting character & some provoked discussion. Much entertainment arose at the end in guessing at the authorship.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A programme devoted to Shelley was arranged which included readings from Adonais, the Skylark & Francis Thompson's Essay on Shelley'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'A programme devoted to Shelley was arranged which included readings from Adonais, the Skylark & Francis Thompson's Essay on Shelley'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'A programme devoted to Shelley was arranged which included readings from Adonais, the Skylark & Francis Thompson's Essay on Shelley'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'A series of readings from Maeterlinck were given by various members'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The Programme on Recent Irish Literature consisted of the following.
1. A reading of The Tinker's Wedding by Synge
2. A paper by E.E. Unwin on the neo-Irish theatre
3. A reading from the playboy of the Western World
4. Two Songs by E.E. Unwin
5. readings from Countess Cathleen etc.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The Programme on Recent Irish Literature consisted of the following.
1. A reading of The Tinker's Wedding by Synge
2. A paper by E.E. Unwin on the neo-Irish theatre
3. A reading from the Playboy of the Western World
4. Two Songs by E.E. Unwin
5. readings from Countess Cathleen etc.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The Programme on Recent Irish Literature consisted of the following.
1. A reading of The Tinker's Wedding by Synge
2. A paper by E.E. Unwin on the neo-Irish theatre
3. A reading from the Playboy of the Western World
4. Two Songs by E.E. Unwin
5. readings from Countess Cathleen etc.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to the reading of a number of short stories which were more or less anonymous. Most of the stories were seasonal in that they dealt with some ghostly episode.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'The evening was then given up to the consideration of three modern poets.
Alfred Noyes. A paper by Mrs Unwin with readings from his works.
Henry Newbolt. A paper by C.E. Stansfield with readings
Clifton Chapel C.I. Evans
Vitai Lampada H.M. Wallis
A Ballad of John Nicholson A. Rawlings
The Vigil Mrs Robson
& two songs. Drake's Drum & the Old Superb Mr Unwin.
(3) Rupert Brooke a paper by R.H. Robson
with readings by Mrs Rawlings
Mrs Evans
Mrs Robson & R.H. Robson'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to readings from the plays of Galsworthy. The plays thus dealt with were: Justice. A bit o' Love. Strife.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to readings from the plays of Galsworthy. The plays thus dealt with were: Justice. A bit o' Love. Strife.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to readings from the plays of Galsworthy. The plays thus dealt with were: Justice. A bit o' Love. Strife.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The members then considered Bret Harte & his work. The committee overwhelmed by the inability (through health & other unavoidable circumstances) of 3 members to introduce the [underlined] Man [end underlining] to the Club boldly inaugurated a new procedure & in the capable hands of C.I. Evans became a great success [this was for every member to furnish some facts about him - these are redacted]
We then had some readings from his works
'The Waif of the Plains' by Miss Wallis
'Luck of Roaring Camp' by Mrs Rawlings
This last was the short story with which he leaped into fame as a short-story writer of Western mining life.
Mr Evans read a story from the published biography - a book that seemed well worth reading, & Mrs Unwin read two of his poems. Other members read poems & the discussion upon his work was continued. To many of us - the Secretary is one of these - the evening introduced us to a new novelist - we had heard of the short poems - 'Jim' & 'In the Tunnel' but The Luck of Roaring Camp & his other prose work are surely worthy to rank with the best.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Then followed the reading of 7 essays. They were supposed to be anonymous & were certainly read withot any author's name being attached but the inquisitive by internal or external evidence began to sort them out & at the end of the meeting the identity of the various writers was disclosed' [the essays are then discussed, but without mention of authors or readers]
Century: Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A number of Members helped by reading poems from one or other of these authors' [de la Mare, Newbolt and other George V period poets]
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The remainder of the evening was given over to R.L. Stevenson & his work.
[the format of the evening's discussion on the question of whether Stevenson's work will live is explained]
To enable us to review his work readings were given as under
from the Essays - 'An Apology for Idlers' by Alfred vice Janet Rawlings
Poems - 'Christmas at Sea'
'Tropic Rain'
'Vagabond' [all read by] Mrs W.H. Smith
Travel Books - 'Travels with a Donkey' by E.E. Unwin
Novels - 'Master of Ballantrae' by H.M. Wallis
Letters - Mr & Mrs Evans.
[some remarks on songs sung by various members]
It is difficult for any one to sum up the results of the discussion - it was soon apparent that to some members his essays were the one & only thing worth having, to others his stories, 'Treasure Island', 'Island Nights Entertainments' & so on reveal his greatness: to others, his letters are the thing & so one might proceed'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The remainder of the evening was given over to R.L. Stevenson & his work.
[the format of the evening's discussion on the question of whether Stevenson's work will live is explained]
To enable us to review his work readings were given as under
from the Essays - 'An Apology for Idlers' by Alfred vice Janet Rawlings
Poems - 'Christmas at Sea'
'Tropic Rain'
'Vagabond' [all read by] Mrs W.H. Smith
Travel Books - 'Travels with a Donkey' by E.E. Unwin
Novels - 'Master of Ballantrae' by H.M. Wallis
Letters - Mr & Mrs Evans.
[some remarks on songs sung by various members]
It is difficult for any one to sum up the results of the discussion - it was soon apparent that to some members his essays were the one & only thing worth having, to others his stories, 'Treasure Island', 'Island Nights Entertainments' & so on reveal his greatness: to others, his letters are the thing & so one might proceed'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The evening then became a 'Comic One'. The chief contribution was a paper by H.M. Wallis on 'the Comic' as reflected in the works of the writers of last century. Readings were given & stories told as illustrations'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The evening was then devoted to a reading of Drinkwater 'Abraham Lincoln' - most members taking part'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to a reading of 'The Winter's Tale'. The production was under the joint management of Mrs Robson & R.B. Graham. The play had been 'cut' to bring it within the compass of the time at our disposal and the cast was so arranged that most members took some part. Where all were so good it would be invidious to mention names. Suffice it to say that all felt the evening to have been a good one and the result of the evening was two fold: a new or renewed acquaintance with the genius of Shakespeare and a sense of fellowship induced by the collective contributions of a large number of members'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The remainder of the evening was occupied by the reading of Dr Faustus. The various parts were read by the members - the chief being
Mephisto - C.I. Evans
Faustus - R.H. Robson'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club including Charles Evans and Reginald Robson Print: Book
'A play-reading of Galsworthy's Skin-Game was then given. The members taking part were as follows
Hillcrest R.H. Robson
Amy, his wife Miss Marriage
Jill his daughter Miss R. Wallis
Dawker his agent R.B. Graham
Hornblower E.E. Unwin
Charles his soldier son S.A. Reynolds
Chloe wife to Charles Miss M. Hayward
Rolf his younger son R.B. Graham
Fellows & Anna Mrs Unwin
the Jackmans Mr & Mrs H.R. Smith
An auctioneer H.R. Smith
The reading was much enjoyed & gave rise to a short but interesting discussion as to Galsworthy's meaning. R.B. Graham put forward an interesting suggestion that the play was symbolic of the struggle seen in the war.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to a play-reading. Gilbert Murray's translation of The Agamemnon had been selected. The following took part.
Chorus & Elders H.M. Wallis
Watchman & Elder C.E. Stansfield
Herald R.H. Robson
Aigisthos H.R. Smith
Cassandra Mrs Unwin
Cytemnestra [sic] Eliot Wallis instead of Miss B.S.
Agamemnon E.E. Unwin
For the ordinary member some introduction & description of the Greek Drama would have added to the interest of the evening. Probably those who were reading enjoyed it more than those who had to listen.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to a reading of Oliver Cromwell by John Drinkwater'.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The remainder of the evening was devoted to a play-reading from Oliver Goldsmith's 'The Goodnatured Man'. Although this play was Goldsmith's first experiment in writing for the theatre & contains many obvious faults it succeeded in obtaining a fair hearing at its first production in 1768 & brought the author a sum of £500. It has a rather weak plot & the character of Honeywood is not well brought out. Undoubtedly Croaker saved the piece, with help from Lofts. The reading of the play by members of the club made an interesting & enjoyable evening. The play certainly goes better in dialogue than when read through to oneself, although there is too little action in it for any success for acting. In this respect it is much inferior to 'She Stoops to Conquer'. [a lengthy cast list is given]
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The rest of the evening was devoted to a Play-Reading of Bernard Shaw's Candida.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII book Club Print: Book
'Land of Heart's Desire by W. B. Yeats was read by members of the Club. The parts were distributed among the members as follows and those who read entered very charmingly into the spirit of the piece.
Maureen Bruin by H.M. Wallis
Bridget Bruin [ditto] F.E. Reynolds
Shawn Bruin [ditto] R.B. Graham
Mary Briuin [ditto] K.S. Evans
Father Hart [ditto] Geo Burrow
A Faery Child [ditto] E.A. Smith
After supper Celia S. Burrow recited Down by the Salley Gardens & half a dozen short readings from Yeats poetry were given by the members which was followed by a desultory discussion on Irish Humour, Fairies &c.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Land of Heart's Desire by W. B. Yeats was read by members of the Club. The parts were distributed among the members as follows and those who read entered very charmingly into the spirit of the piece.
Maureen Bruin by H.M. Wallis
Bridget Bruin [ditto] F.E. Reynolds
Shawn Bruin [ditto] R.B. Graham
Mary Briuin [ditto] K.S. Evans
Father Hart [ditto] Geo Burrow
A Faery Child [ditto] E.A. Smith
After supper Celia S. Burrow recited Down by the Salley Gardens & half a dozen short readings from Yeats poetry were given by the members which was followed by a desultory discussion on Irish Humour, Fairies &c.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'R.H. Robson opened the subject of Joan of Arc by giving a historical sketch of her life & then attempting to "Put her in her Place" which latter process involved a general & interesting discussion the substantial result being that she refused to be so put. Mrs Evans read a fervid passage from De Quincey & H.R. Smith & C.I. Evans gave some estimate of the Lives by Mark Twain & Andrew Lang & read short passages from these works. After supper Mr Graham Mr Pollard Mr Robson & Miss M.B. Smith read in parts most spiritually the first scene from Shaw's St Joan; Mr Evans read from the Epilogue, & another general discussion brought a most fascinating evening to a conclusion.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'The evening's subject of William de Morgan was introduced by Geo Burrow who gave some account of his life drawing attention to his whimsical nature & unpractical business methods. Mrs Rawlings read a powerful but sad scene of shipwreck from Joseph Vance. F.E. Pollard chatted on the novels emphasizing their apparent but not real shapelessness the author's great interest in problems of memory the reality of the conversations the way in which characters were drawn & well drawn in all kinds of situations & from all ranks of society. The ensuing discussion showed how the healthy & delightful tone of the books had been enjoyed. R.H. Robson & H.R. Smith read from Alice for short & Somehow Good & A. Rawlings gave some account of De Morgan's methods on his tiles & pottery.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Various anonymous essays by members of the Club were then read with the following titles and at the conclusion of the meeting whilst the authorship of some was quickly acclaimed others proved very difficult to locate.
Some thoughts on Racing attributed to R. Wallis
One Generation & the next or Jobson on False Freedom C.E. Stansfield
Intimations of Immortality R.H. Robson
The Lady of the Marsh Mrs R.B. Graham
If Christianity had Won R.B. Graham
The Revolt of the Innocents Geo Burrow
Thoughts on the Construction of Cathedrals H.M. Wallis
Revenge or Justice C Evans
Five minutes Thoughts upon present Condition H.M. Wallis
A Scandalous Affair [illegible symbol]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'A reading in parts of Barrie's "Admirable Crichton" was then given with considerable spirit & was much appreciated. The characters were read as follows [a list of 14 members and characters follows]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'To conclude some 15 sonnets were read & recited by members & much enjoyed'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: members of XII Book Club Print: Unknown
'Gallsworthy's [sic] play "The Escape" was then read in parts by the Club except that the Prologue was omitted. The reading was greatly enjoyed by all & it was felt that the Committtee had been singularly successful in their casting of the piece.' [the long cast list follows]
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Four one act plays were then read:
"Windows by J. Galsworthy, "the Dear Departed" by Stanley Houghton, "The Boy Comes Home" by A. A. Milne, "Fame & the Poet" by Lord Dunsany & a delightful evening was spent.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Four one act plays were then read:
"Windows by J. Galsworthy, "the Dear Departed" by Stanley Houghton, "The Boy Comes Home" by A. A. Milne, "Fame & the Poet" by Lord Dunsany & a delightful evening was spent.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Four one act plays were then read:
"Windows by J. Galsworthy, "the Dear Departed" by Stanley Houghton, "The Boy Comes Home" by A. A. Milne, "Fame & the Poet" by Lord Dunsany & a delightful evening was spent.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
'Four one act plays were then read:
"Windows by J. Galsworthy, "the Dear Departed" by Stanley Houghton, "The Boy Comes Home" by A. A. Milne, "Fame & the Poet" by Lord Dunsany & a delightful evening was spent.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of XII Book Club Print: Book
The Club was then much impressed by a reading from Christopher Marlows Doctor Faustus parted as under
Thos. C Elliot Faustus
R H Robson Metistopholes [sic]
A Rawling An old Man
Unknown
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Live dramatic reading featuring T. C. Elliott, R. H. Robson, and A. Rawling of XII Book Club
'A. Meeting held at Frensham 19/3/1929 H. R. Smith in the chair
Min 1 Minutes of last read and approved
Min 2 The date of the next Meeting was fixed for Friday May 3rd at Grove House by kind
invitation of Mrs Lawson[.] Mr H. B. Lawson was added to the committee
Min 3 Three short Plays of John Galsworthy were then read in parts. The first was "Hall Marked"
not a great success as it depends so much on exit. [illegible word similar to ‘cutranas’] glances &
backs. After supper Came "The Little Man" which was much enjoyed and finally Punch & Go
which also gave much pleasure.'
Unknown
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Un-named members of the XII Book Club
'A. Meeting held at Frensham 19/3/1929 H. R. Smith in the chair
Min 1 Minutes of last read and approved
Min 2 The date of the next Meeting was fixed for Friday May 3rd at Grove House by kind
invitation of Mrs Lawson[.] Mr H. B. Lawson was added to the committee
Min 3 Three short Plays of John Galsworthy were then read in parts. The first was "Hall Marked"
not a great success as it depends so much on exit. [illegible word similar to ‘cutranas’] glances &
backs. After supper Came "The Little Man" which was much enjoyed and finally Punch & Go
which also gave much pleasure.'
Unknown
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Un-named members of the XII Book Club
'A. Meeting held at Frensham 19/3/1929 H. R. Smith in the chair
Min 1 Minutes of last read and approved
Min 2 The date of the next Meeting was fixed for Friday May 3rd at Grove House by kind
invitation of Mrs Lawson[.] Mr H. B. Lawson was added to the committee
Min 3 Three short Plays of John Galsworthy were then read in parts. The first was "Hall Marked"
not a great success as it depends so much on exit. [illegible word similar to ‘cutranas’] glances &
backs. After supper Came "The Little Man" which was much enjoyed and finally Punch & Go
which also gave much pleasure.'
Unknown
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Un-named members of the XII Book Club
'Meeting held at 70 Northcourt Avenue 28th October 1930
C.E. Stansfield in the chair
1. Minutes of last time read and approved
[...]
3. For the next meeting the Club accepted the kind offer of hospitality made by Mrs Castle when the
meeting would vote in new Books, the following to act as a committee [...] E. B. Castle Miss Brain
and H. R. Smith.
4 For the following meeting it was decided to have a symposium with E. B. Castle R. H. Robson and
V. W. Alexander as a Committee. The Club accepted the kind offer of hospitality made by Miss E. C.
Stevens.
5 The Books were then auctioned by the Secretary as list overleaf.
6 After refreshments the Club settled down with many giggles to a general Knowlege paper attached,
For (the answering of) which 40 minutes was allowed. The correction of the papers caused much
discussion & amusement The total of marks gainable was 85 & Mr Mitchell a visitor[?] came out first
with 43 H.M. Wallis came next with 39 1/2 & E B Castle third with 38 1/2. Mrs Alexander proved
herself the leading lady with a score of 31.
Result of Book Auction 28/10/30
High Wind in Jamaica H. M. Wallis 5/-
Henry the VIIIth V. W. Alexander 8/6
Alice Meynell Miss E. C. Stevens 8/6
Tarka the Otter Geo Burrow 3/6
English Tradition in Education E. B. Castle 8/-
Magellan do 7/3
Studies in Literature Miss D. Brain 6/9
Peep Show of the Port of London S. A. Reynolds 6/-
[?] Around us C. E. Stansfield 10/6
C. E. Montague H. M. Wallis 8/9
Waters of Africa Mrs Alexander 6/6
Good Companion Mrs D. Brain 7/9
[total] 4/7/-
'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Sheet, Two sheets of carbon copy typescript
'Meeting held at 70 Northcourt Avenue 28th October 1930
C.E. Stansfield in the chair
1. Minutes of last time read and approved
[...]
3. For the next meeting the Club accepted the kind offer of hospitality made by Mrs Castle when the
meeting would vote in new Books, the following to act as a committee [...] E. B. Castle Miss Brain
and H. R. Smith.
4 For the following meeting it was decided to have a symposium with E. B. Castle R. H. Robson and
V. W. Alexander as a Committee. The Club accepted the kind offer of hospitality made by Miss E. C.
Stevens.
5 The Books were then auctioned by the Secretary as list overleaf.
6 After refreshments the Club settled down with many giggles to a general Knowlege paper attached,
For (the answering of) which 40 minutes was allowed. The correction of the papers caused much
discussion & amusement The total of marks gainable was 85 & Mr Mitchell a visitor[?] came out first
with 43 H.M. Wallis came next with 39 1/2 & E B Castle third with 38 1/2. Mrs Alexander proved
herself the leading lady with a score of 31.
Result of Book Auction 28/10/30
High Wind in Jamaica H. M. Wallis 5/-
Henry the VIIIth V. W. Alexander 8/6
Alice Meynell Miss E. C. Stevens 8/6
Tarka the Otter Geo Burrow 3/6
English Tradition in Education E. B. Castle 8/-
Magellan do 7/3
Studies in Literature Miss D. Brain 6/9
Peep Show of the Port of London S. A. Reynolds 6/-
[?] Around us C. E. Stansfield 10/6
C. E. Montague H. M. Wallis 8/9
Waters of Africa Mrs Alexander 6/6
Good Companion Mrs D. Brain 7/9
[total] 4/7/-
'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Unidentified members/guests of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Sheet, Two sheets of carbon copy typescript
Meeting held at Broomfield: 15. V. 31
George Burrow in the chair
1. Minutes of last approved
[...]
5. George Burrow read a short paper introducing the Taming of the Shrew and the Club then
read this play in parts
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'Whinfell, Upper Redlands Rd., 30. i. 32.
Alfred Rawlings in the Chair.
1. Minutes of last read and approved.
[...]
3. Howard Smith spoke to us of the social and literary sides of Sheridan's life.[...]
4. Reginald H. Robson followed with an account of Sheridan as Parliamentarian, telling us of
his thirty-two years in opposition to reactionary government, his aversion from bribery in a
corrupt age, and his conduct of the Hastings Impeachment. This last brought into remarkable
combination Sheridan's dramatic and rhetorical gifts; so that we quite fell beneath the spell,
accepting him as a heroic character, and were ready to condone, if not indeed even to
acclaim, his less creditable convivialities with the Prince Regent and Mrs.[or Mr.] Robson's
ancestors!
5. Francis E. Pollard then read a passage from Sheridan's speech on the devastation of
Oudh.[...]
6. We then listend to extracts from "The School for Scandal" starring Mrs. Robson as Lady
Teazle and C. E. Stansfield as Sir Peter. As is not unusual on such occasions the humours of
the play as devised by the author had to compete with other unrehearsed attractions — actors
borrowing books, adjusting their spectacles, turning two pages instead of one, and, perhaps
best of all, the pure milk of the expurgated editions looking a little sour at the strong wine of
the original text.
Be that as it may, ancestral portraits from the brush of Vandyke or Lely, Kneller or Rawlings
changed owners with the accustomed success: Mr. Robson* as Joseph Surface mad love to his
own wife as Lady Teazle[...].
* R.H.R. states that Gio. B. was Jos. Surface [Footnote is in MS]'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Unidentified members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
Meeting held at 9 Denmark Road, 20 IV. 1934
F. E. Pollard in the chair
1. Minutes of last read & approved with one correction, in the absence of the secretary.
[...]
4. Howard R. Smith told us of Morris’s life. The meeting gasped with unanimity and
amazement to learn that he (Morris i.e.) had read all the Waverley novels by the age of
seven; we gathered that the background of his life had been a blend of Epping Forest & shares
in a coppermine, and that his appearance accounted for his lifelong nickname of Topsy. Of his
friendships, his labours to restore beauty to Victorian homes, to prevent vandals from
restoring cathedrals & other ancient monuments, his Kelmscott Press, his poems & prose
romances, his turning to Socialism as the only way to a society in which men would find
happiness in sound and beautiful work – of all these things and many more which made up his
extraordinarily full and fruitful life, it is impossible to make a summary.
5. Mary S. W. Pollard read a short extract from Percy Corder’s life of Robert Spence Watson
telling of a visit of Wm Morris to Bensham Grove. Members afterwards inspected his signature
in the Visitors’ book.
6. Ethel C. Stevens read an interesting account of Kelmscott Manor, revealing other sides of
this vigorous and many sided personality.
7. R. H. Robson gathered together the artistic & socialist aspects of Morris’s work, emphasised
the greatness of the man, & read extracts from MacKail’s Biography. It was clear that Morris
would wish to cancel out the last four hundred years & start again on different lines. Time was
wanting to reveal all the varieties of opinion that this might have elicited, & we parted in
united awe at the mans capacity for work, & his important contributions to our life & ideals.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: XII Book Club Manuscript: Notebook
'The Excursion – Saturday 7th July.
Plans laid for our entertainment led to a delightful outing.
Ufton Court proved a most interesting + even thrilling adventure with its secret panels,
priests’ holes and treasure hidey places. [...]
In the course of a happily chosen route through what I should like to describe as Newcomers
to Reading scenery we halted at Kingsclere Church + there for the first time many of us saw a
race horse in a stained glass church window. On looking at the type-written programme of our
way I see we passed other spots with alluring names ‘Round Oak’, the Falcon, the Pineapple,
the Ship, the Bolton Arms but no stops were permitted at any of these, and as official
programmes were only issued to actual drivers of cars, our passengers were brought safely
through in blissful ignorance of the potency of Berkshire welcome. [...]
The official route is appended.
[The typescript of the itinerary, with handwritten title, is pasted into the minutebook and
reads as follows.]
Excursion to Ufton Court
Proceed to "Three Firs", Burghfield, take road towards "Round Oak", taking 2nd on right and
twice bear left to Ufton Court.
Return same road and proceed to "Round Oak", and forward to Kingsclere via "Falcon",
"Pineapple" and "Ship".
If time allows, pause Kingsclere for short visit to Church.
Leave Kingsclere by Overton road, bear right "Bolton Arms" and soon after sharp left on
Sydmonton road. After 2½ miles turn sharp left at 4 X roads for Overton uphill to Supper site.
Return by same road to Kingsclere, there bear right for Basingstoke and thence to Reading.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Driving members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Sheet
Meeting held at 233 Shinfield Road, 29 XI. 1934
1. At Mrs Goadby’s request, C. E. Stansfield took the chair, and in the absence of the
Secretary, F. E. Pollard took his place.
2. Minutes of last approved as presenting the spirit of the meeting.
[...]
6. A statement of accounts was presented, showing (subject to some members realizing that
their subscriptions were still unpaid) a balance of £1. 18 0.
[...]
8. The committee appointed to bring in a list of books for the coming year presented some
thirty to choose from, & a recommended selection. The voting was somewhat confused, at
times bordering upon the riotous[...].'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Meeting held at Frensham, Northcourt Avenue: 4.2.36
Howard R. Smith in the chair.
1. Minutes of last read and approved.
[...]
4. We then read a large part of Richard of Bordeaux. R. H. Robson had apportioned the parts and
most members present had to read more than one. The play made good reading, and some
discussion of its merits took place at the close of the programme.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'Meeting held at School House, LP. 15.9.36
Howard R. Smith in the chair.
1. Minutes of last read + approved
[...]
6. We then proceeded to read “Much Ado about Nothing”, a somewhat singular title for a
situation involving the honour and happiness of a virtuous young lady betrothed to a rather
attractive young noble. The parts were drawn by lot, or rather some of them were – such as had
not been forgotten by the committee, or had not slipped into the lining of the rather inferior
Handbag produced for the occasion. The principal male parts were taken by ladies — just the
reverse of what occurred in Shakespeare’s own day.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Minutes
'Meeting held at Ashton Lodge: 15. 5. 36
H. M. Wallis in the Chair
1. Minutes of last read and approved
5. A General Knowledge then occupied us very happily for the rest of the evening. H. R. Smith
and C. E. Stansfield, the Examiners, proved too cunning for most of us. But the ladies claimed
with some show of reason that the absence of a female Examiner placed them at a
disadvantage.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Typescript sheets
'Meeting held at Frensham:- 27.1.37
Howard R. Smith in the chair
1. Minutes of last read and approved.
[...]
6. Members then read the play Green Pastures, with exception only of one big scene. Edgar
Castle took the part of “De Lord Jehovah” (unavoidably absent) and Frank Pollard (perhaps
with boyhood memories of the days when he was B. B. le Tall’s licensed jester) played the
Archangel Gabriel. Of the others it might be said that each man in his turn played many parts,
and Reginald Robson was a veritable Henry V at Agincourt, Pyrrhus at Troy, + Condé at Rocroi
rolled into one with here and there a touch of the angels at Mons.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Unidentified members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
Meeting held at Hillsborough :- 14. 9. 37.
Reginald H. Robson in the Chair.
1. Minutes of last read & approved
2. Charles Stansfield then introduced the momentous question of the evening. Was the Book
Club to end its existence? He had felt for some time that it was moribund. [...]
He referred to E. B. Castle who shared his concern and to a letter which he believed had been
written to the Secretary by E. B. Castle.
3. The Secretary then read this; it supported the opinions expressed by C. E. Stansfield.
4. The subject was then discussed informally.
[...]
9. We then turned to the work of Barrie. Howard Smith gave us a chat – he would not call it a
paper – on the plays he had seen.
[...]
A considerable part of “What every woman knows” was then read in which a number of people
took part.
Charles Stansfield appropriately gave a reading from My Lady Nicotine.
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Book
'Meeting held at 70 Northcourt Avenue: 14. 12. 37
[...]
4. The Book list committee then submitted a list of twelve books with various alternatives. With
one exception the original twelve were accepted by the Club[...].'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Meeting held at 7, Marlborough Avenue. 15th Jan, 1944
A. G. Joselin in the chair.
[...]
2. The minutes of the last meeting were read and signed
[...]
5. Howard Smith opened the evening on Shelley with a biographical sketch. [...]
6. We adjourned for refreshment[.]
7. F. E. Pollard read “Ode to the West Wind”
8. Margaret Dilks gave brief appreciation of Shelley’s poetry. This started a general
discussion in which nearly all took part — whether he influenced or was influenced by
his contempor[ar]ies , & what effect he had, if any, on future poets. On these
questions opinion varied, but all agreed with F. E. Pollard that Shelley’s verse is
supremely ‘poetical’.
9. To illustrate Shelley’s passion for liberty and reform Bruce Dilks read from “The
Masque of Anarchy” which was inspired by the Peterloo Massacre in 1819.
10. Rosamund Wallis read some stanzas from “Adonais”. F. E. Pollard read a short
poem entitled “A Lament”[.] Thus, our thoughts being with the departed, the meeting
ended on a lighter note. One member quoted a touching little verse from the
Berkshire Chronicle In Memoriam notices, which another capped by some lines written
by a school-boy on the relative merits of perpetual roasting and eternal hymn-singing.
Lines which gained the boy a severe reprimand from his head-master, and a ‘Fiver’
from his father.
[signed as a true record by] S A Reynolds 14/2/44'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members and perhaps guests of the XII Book Club Print: Newspaper
Meeting held at Gower Cottage. 2nd. Dec. 1943
Muriel Stevens in the chair.
1. Minutes of last meeting read & signed.
2. The treasurer reported on the club’s finances. No accounts were
presented for
inspection, indeed the only member near enough to the treasurer to get a
glimpse
of his A/C book protested that the figures read out in no way corresponded
to
those written down. Amid a good deal of flippant comment a balance in
hand of
6/3 was revealed. A vote of confidence in the treasurer was moved and his
report
accepted.
[...]
5. After a refreshing interval we proceeded to the ever more difficult task of
selecting books for this year’s reading. The Committee [Knox Taylor, Muriel
Stevens and Rosamund Wallis – see minutes of the meeting held 6 October,
XII
Book Club Minute Book, Vol. 4, p. 162] had gone to a good deal of trouble in
order
to put before us a list of books which it was possible to get. However,
these did
not meet with very general approval, so we proceeded to vote on the list of
much
more interesting books many of which the committee had ascertained were
already out of print & unobtainable. [...]
[signed as a true record by] Arnold G. Joselin
15th Jan. 1944 [at the club meeting held at 7, Marlborough Avenue: see XII
Book
Club Minute Book, Vol. 5 (1944-1952), p. 0 – i.e. the page before the first
numbered page]
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Meeting held at 22 Cintra Avenue: 17. IV 40.
F. E. Pollard in the chair
1. Minutes of last read & approved.
[...]
5. As an introduction to our subject of Modern English Humourists, R. H. Robson
read a passage analysing the nature of Humour. Discussion followed on the
distinction, if any, between wit & humour, & various alleged examples were
forthcoming.
6. A. B. Dilks read from Grossmith’s Diary of a Nobody; many entries appealed to
members as characteristic of themselves or their friends.
7. In the regretted absence of C. E. Stansfield, F. E. Pollard read T. Thompson’s
Blitzkrieg, from the Manchester Guardian, in what purported to be the Lancashire
dialect.
8 Howard R. Smith read from A. A. Milne: the reader shared fully in the mirth of
the hearers.
9. M. Dilks gave us a passage from Macdonnell’s ‘England, their England’, which
must have been salutary for any suffering from insular complacency.
10. Rosamund Wallis’ contribution was from P. G. Wodehouse’s ‘Carry on, Jeeves’;
certain methods of being off with the old love & on with the new were
characteristically indicated by the writer, effectively rendered by the reader, &
clearly appreciated by the company.
11. R. H. Robson’s Saki story supplied further satire on English standards – in this
case of music, & the services likely to secure a title.
12. The chapter from Barrie’s ‘Window in Thrums’, read by F. E. Pollard, told how
Gavin Birse did his best to be off with the old love, but failed.
13. The idea of a Barrie evening was mooted.
[signed as a true record:] M. Stevens
18-7-40'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Notebook
'Meeting held at Gower Cottage, Elm Road.
18–7–40
M Stevens in the chair.
1. Minutes of last were read and signed.
[...]
3. The Treasurer (V. W. Alexander) gave a statement of accounts up to the end of
1939, which showed the astonishingly large balance of £4/10/2. The statement was
accepted.
4. The Secretary (also V. W. Alexander) reported having received a letter of
resignation from Howard and Elsie Sikes who are no longer able to attend our
meetings. We are sorry to lose them.
5. Mary S. W. Pollard read a letter of resignation from Victor W. and Elizabeth
Alexander, who are leaving Reading. A telegram had been received from Elizabeth
Alexander during the day, wishing the Club “goodbye & good luck, with thanks for
many merry meetings.” Howard Smith expressed our gratitude for the very
valuable services of V. W. Alexander & his wife as Secretary and Treasurer, &
afterwards drafted a letter of thanks & good wishes to Elizabeth Alexander, which
was signed by all present.
6. As his last duty for us, V. W. Alexander wrote a letter of affectionate greeting
to Charles Stansfield who has been ill for many weeks. This was signed by all.
7. M. Stevens was asked to write minutes for this time.
[signed as a true record by] A. B. Dilks
20 Aug 40.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Print: Telegram
'Meeting held at Gower Cottage, Elm Road.
18–7–40
M Stevens in the chair.
1. Minutes of last were read and signed.
[...]
3. The Treasurer (V. W. Alexander) gave a statement of accounts up to the end of
1939, which showed the astonishingly large balance of £4/10/2. The statement was
accepted.
4. The Secretary (also V. W. Alexander) reported having received a letter of
resignation from Howard and Elsie Sikes who are no longer able to attend our
meetings. We are sorry to lose them.
5. Mary S. W. Pollard read a letter of resignation from Victor W. and Elizabeth
Alexander, who are leaving Reading. A telegram had been received from Elizabeth
Alexander during the day, wishing the Club “goodbye & good luck, with thanks for
many merry meetings.” Howard Smith expressed our gratitude for the very
valuable services of V. W. Alexander & his wife as Secretary and Treasurer, &
afterwards drafted a letter of thanks & good wishes to Elizabeth Alexander, which
was signed by all present.
6. As his last duty for us, V. W. Alexander wrote a letter of affectionate greeting
to Charles Stansfield who has been ill for many weeks. This was signed by all.
7. M. Stevens was asked to write minutes for this time.
[signed as a true record by] A. B. Dilks
20 Aug 40.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Letter
'Meeting held at Gower Cottage, Elm Road.
18–7–40
M Stevens in the chair.
1. Minutes of last were read and signed.
[...]
3. The Treasurer (V. W. Alexander) gave a statement of accounts up to the end of
1939, which showed the astonishingly large balance of £4/10/2. The statement was
accepted.
4. The Secretary (also V. W. Alexander) reported having received a letter of
resignation from Howard and Elsie Sikes who are no longer able to attend our
meetings. We are sorry to lose them.
5. Mary S. W. Pollard read a letter of resignation from Victor W. and Elizabeth
Alexander, who are leaving Reading. A telegram had been received from Elizabeth
Alexander during the day, wishing the Club “goodbye & good luck, with thanks for
many merry meetings.” Howard Smith expressed our gratitude for the very
valuable services of V. W. Alexander & his wife as Secretary and Treasurer, &
afterwards drafted a letter of thanks & good wishes to Elizabeth Alexander, which
was signed by all present.
6. As his last duty for us, V. W. Alexander wrote a letter of affectionate greeting
to Charles Stansfield who has been ill for many weeks. This was signed by all.
7. M. Stevens was asked to write minutes for this time.
[signed as a true record by] A. B. Dilks
20 Aug 40.'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Letter
'Meeting held at 39, Eastern Avenue. 20. 8. 40
A. B. Dilks in the chair.
[...]
8. After coffee we were faced with the Herculean task of answering a General
Knowledge paper consisting of 9 sections, each of about 10 questions. This paper
was set by Howard Smith and A. B. Dilks and we are very grateful to them for the
time & trouble they took in compiling it. [...] “Time” was called at 10 o’clock and
the chairman then read out the answers. The integrity of the Club was not
questioned so we each corrected our own papers. [it was a matter for regret that
the two sections calling for original composition should have been left out by so
many members. [...]
[signed by] Howard R. Smith
13/9/1940'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Meeting held at 39, Eastern Avenue. 20. 8. 40
A. B. Dilks in the chair.
[...]
8. After coffee we were faced with the Herculean task of answering a General
Knowledge paper consisting of 9 sections, each of about 10 questions. This paper
was set by Howard Smith and A. B. Dilks and we are very grateful to them for the
time & trouble they took in compiling it. [...] “Time” was called at 10 o’clock and
the chairman then read out the answers. The integrity of the Club was not
questioned so we each corrected our own papers. [it was a matter for regret that
the two sections calling for original composition should have been left out by so
many members. [...]
[signed by] Howard R. Smith
13/9/1940'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Unknown
'Meeting held at Frensham, Northcourt Avenue, 13.xii.40
Howard R. Smith in the chair.
1. An apology for absence was read from Mr. & Mrs. Joselyn.
2. Minutes of last meeting were read & signed.
[...]
4. Mrs. Pollard read a letter from Elizabeth Alexander telling of a very unfortunate
accident which had befallen our late secretary. Mrs. Pollard was asked, when
writing, to convey to the Alexanders our sympathy and hopes for a very speedy
recovery.
[...]
6. Typed lists of books suggested for this year’s reading were handed round an F.
E. Pollard made a few brief explanatory remarks about each book. Some doubt
was expressed regarding the number of books to be purchased this year in view of
our depleted numbers, but a brief journey into the realms of the higher
mathematics soon satisfied everyone that if we counted our single members
separately instead of in pairs, 12 books would provide one per house per month.
[...]
[...]
[Signed by] A. B. Dilks
10.2.41'
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club Manuscript: Typescript
'Meeting held at School House, LP. 15.9.36
Howard R. Smith in the chair.
1. Minutes of last read + approved
[...]
6. We then proceeded to read “Much Ado about Nothing”, a somewhat singular title for a
situation involving the honour and happiness of a virtuous young lady betrothed to a rather
attractive young noble. The parts were drawn by lot, or rather some of them were – such as had
not been forgotten by the committee, or had not slipped into the lining of the rather inferior
Handbag produced for the occasion. The principal male parts were taken by ladies — just the
reverse of what occurred in Shakespeare’s own day.'
Unknown
Century: 1900-1945 Reader/Listener/Group: Members of the XII Book Club
