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the experience of reading in Britain, from 1450 to 1945...

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Listings for Reader:  

Reginald Robson

 

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 : [works by and about Tolstoy]

'Mrs Unwin then read a biography of Leo Tolstoi. C.I. Evans then dealt with him as a schoolmaster - H.M. Wallis as a literary artist & R.H. Robson summarised the message of Tolstoi.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Oliver Wendell Holmes : Professor at the Breakfast Table, The

'The Life & Works of Oliver W. Holmes were then dealt with. John J. Cooper read an interesting biographical paper, concluding with a reading "Latter Day Warnings" for The Autocrat. Mrs Robson a reading from "The Poet at the Bt table" Mrs Evans [ditto marks] from "Elsie Venner" R.H. Robson read a paper dealing with the characters of "The Professor at the Bt table". The paper was illustrated by well selected readings from the book - making a most interesting communication. C.I. Evans read "The Chambered Nautilus" & "The Wonderful One-hoss Shay".'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Reginald Robson : [paper on Holmes's 'the Professor at the Breakfast Table']

'The Life & Works of Oliver W. Holmes were then dealt with. John J. Cooper read an interesting biographical paper, concluding with a reading "Latter Day Warnings" for The Autocrat. Mrs Robson a reading from "The Poet at the Bt table" Mrs Evans [ditto marks] from "Elsie Venner" R.H. Robson read a paper dealing with the characters of "The Professor at the Bt table". The paper was illustrated by well selected readings from the book - making a most interesting communication. C.I. Evans read "The Chambered Nautilus" & "The Wonderful One-hoss Shay".'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Miguel de Cervantes : 

'The evening was then devoted to the consideration of Cervantes - his life & work. C.E. Stansfield read a paper & readings were given by Mrs Rawlings, Alfred Rawlings, Mrs Evans, Mr Robson & Mrs Robson'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Rupert Brooke : 

'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: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Rupert Brooke : 

'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: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Reginald Robson : [paper on Rupert Brooke]

'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: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Reginald Robson : [paper on Dostoevsky]

'Dostoieffsky [sic] occupied our attention for the remained [sic] of the evening. We were much indebted to R.H. Robson for an interesting & valuable introduction dealing with his life as the background of his works. All his writings are in the main autobiographical & the story of his life is necessary for a study of his work. One of the main lessons of his writings is a new & deeper meaning in the term 'brotherhood'. It may be that the Russians will reveal the true democracy to the world. Readings from his novels were given by C. E Stansfield, Mrs Evans, E.E. Unwin'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: BookManuscript: Unknown

  

Fyodor Dostoevsky : 

'Dostoieffsky [sic] occupied our attention for the remained [sic] of the evening. We were much indebted to R.H. Robson for an interesting & valuable introduction dealing with his life as the background of his works. All his writings are in the main autobiographical & the story of his life is necessary for a study of his work. One of the main lessons of his writings is a new & deeper meaning in the term 'brotherhood'. It may be that the Russians will reveal the true democracy to the world. Readings from his novels were given by C. E Stansfield, Mrs Evans, E.E. Unwin'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Mark Twain : 

'Mark Twain A very humorous essay written by C.E. Stansfield & read by R.H. Robson gave us a delightful introduction to this great American 'wit' [?] Readings from his works were given by Mrs W.H. Smith. Mrs Evans. Miss Mary Hayward. Mr Robson. Mr Unwin'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Charles Stansfield : [essay on Twain]

'Mark Twain A very humorous essay written by C.E. Stansfield & read by R.H. Robson gave us a delightful introduction to this great American 'wit' [?] Readings from his works were given by Mrs W.H. Smith. Mrs Evans. Miss Mary Hayward. Mr Robson. Mr Unwin'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

William Morris : Earthly Paradise, The

'C.I. Evans described the Earthly Paradise & Mrs Evans & R.H. Robson gave readings therefrom. H.M. Wallis read [superscript 'recited'] some parts of Sigurd the Volsung & described the extraordinary conditions under which many of the poems were written. Some little discussion upon his poetical works followed but lack of time prevented the reading of further poems'. [the 'crowded' tendency of the meetings is then commented on]

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Herbert George Wells : [a short story]

'The meeting then considered the work of H.G. Wells. The chief item of interest was undoubtedly a paper by Henry M. Wallis upon Wells's romances but a better title would be 'A Critique of the Wells Method in Story-writing'. This was certainly one of the ablest papers which H.M.W. has contributed to the Book Club in recent years and gave rise to interesting discussion. R.H. Robson read one of the short stories to illustrate this side of Wells's literary works. Mrs Smith read a paper upon Mankind in the Making and Mary Hayward dealt with the novels, showing by extracts his views upon the English middle class, marriage, social life & religion.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Reginald Robson : [paper on Conrad]

'The subject before the meeting was Joseph Conrad. R.H. Robson introduced the subject with an interesting essay & a number of readings were given to illustrate his descriptive power & his style. C.I. Evans helped by H.M. Wallis read from Lord Jim Mrs Reynolds - Almayer's Folly Mrs Rawlings - Typhoon Joseph Conrad seemed to have been known to but few of the club before the meeting, but certainly as a result members will turn to his writings with considerable [interest] and find possibly that a new star has sailed into their literary sky. If so one object of the club, to be a literary telescope, will have been achieved.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Joseph Conrad : 

'The subject before the meeting was Joseph Conrad. R.H. Robson introduced the subject with an interesting essay & a number of readings were given to illustrate his descriptive power & his style. C.I. Evans helped by H.M. Wallis read from Lord Jim Mrs Reynolds - Almayer's Folly Mrs Rawlings - Typhoon Joseph Conrad seemed to have been known to but few of the club before the meeting, but certainly as a result members will turn to his writings with considerable [interest] and find possibly that a new star has sailed into their literary sky. If so one object of the club, to be a literary telescope, will have been achieved.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Henry Marriage Wallis : [paper on an altar stone found near Carthage]

'Essays were then read. The Secretary does not feel able to do more than indicate the general nature of these essays. 1. Read by R.H. Robson. An essay written by H.M.W. about the remains of an altar stone found near Carthage. Vivid & interesting, bloodstained though the stone was, with human sacrifice. 2. Mrs Smith read a very interesting paper dealing with the mind & its training. 'My mind to me a kingdom is'. Considerable discussion followed. 3. Mr Stansfield read a fantasia (written surely by a historian. R.H.R.) relating the musings of Mendax II giving expression to a cynical prophecy of European politics if events evolved or devolved along present lines. We hope that the assassination of Ld. George by a Quaker pacifist & the suppression of L.P.S. will not be fulfilled. 4. E.E. Unwin read a paper entitled 'The Humours of Man' which consisted of a number of humorous stories lightly linked together'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Reginald Robson : [essay on Keats' life]

'The subject of the evening's programme was John Keats. R.H. Robson read an essay dealing with his life. The main influences & friendships of his short life were well brought out. H.M. Wallis folowed with an appreciation written in the delightful style of which our Friend is so great a master & a reading of the Grecian Urn ode by Miss Marriage completed the first part of the programme. On our return from physical refreshment Charles I. Evans described the Poems of 1820 and some readings were given by Mrs Evans, Mrs Robson & C.E. Stansfield.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Reginald Robson : 'Bad Morality & Bad art'

'The following miscellaneous programme was then gone through. This change in the subject was caused by the imposibility of getting cheap copies of The Dynasts. 1. Pianoforte solo. Selection from Debusy [sic] Miss Bowman Smith 2. Reading. Modern Froissart Chronicles Mrs W.H. Smith 3. Reading. Migrations. Anon. Contrib. from Punch by Alfred Rawlings 4. Recitation. In a Gondola (Browning) Miss Cole 5. Song. 2 French Bergerettes. Mrs Unwin 6. Essay. 'The Pious Atrocity' R.B. Graham 7. Reading. Wedding Presents (Punch) Mrs Reynolds 8. Song. My dear Soul. Mrs Robson 9. Reading 'How the Camel got his Hump' W.H. Smith 10. Song. The Camel's hump. E.E. Unwin 11. Reading. The Man of the Evening (A.A. Milne Punch) Miss R. Wallis 12. Song. Hebrides Galley Song. Miss Bowman Smith 13. Reading. Arms of Wipplecrack S.A. Reynolds 14. Reading. Joints in the Armour. E.V. Lucas. H.M. Wallis 15. Song-Chant Folk Song [ditto] 16. Essay. 'Bad morality & bad art' R.H. Robson 17. Song. Winter. Miss Bowman Smith 18. Essay 'Etaples & the air raids' H.R. Smith 19. Recitation. These new fangled ways. E.E. Unwin 20. Song. Goodnight. Mrs Robson.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Robert Browning : Ring and the Book, The

'the rest of the evening was devoted to Browning's The Ring & the Book. Henry M. Wallis read a masterly paper in introduction. This enabled those who had not read the long poem to understand the story & the way in which Browning treated the story. The success of the evening was largely due to this introduction. The story from several standpoints was then dealt with by members of the club. R.H. Robson read a description of the 1st Guido A. Rawlings read extracts from the book Capansacchi Mrs Evans [ditto] Pompilia Mr Gidham [ditto] Pope Mr Robson [ditto] Guido in prison'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Fanny Burney : [from works or diary]

'The rest of the meeting was devoted to Fanny Burney. Mrs Robson read a paper which had been prepared by Miss Cole dealing wih the main features of her life. We then had a number of reading [sic] from her works & diary by Miss Stevens, Mrs Unwin, Miss Cole, R.H. Robson, H.R. Smith, E.E. Unwin. To Miss Cole was due the success of the evening. She selected the readings & in most cases copied them out for the different readers. They were well selected & gave an interesting glimpse into the kind of life lived by Fanny Burney at Court as a Lady in Waiting'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Sheet, copy from book, taken by Miss Cole

  

John Bunyan : Pilgrim's Progress

'The rest of the evening was devoted to John Bunyan. H.R. Smith read a paper dealing with the main episodes of his life. This was a valuable introduction and gave the right historical & religious setting of Bunyan. C.E. Stansfield read an Appreciation of Pilgrim's Progress & of the writing of Bunyan. He referred to Bunyan & Milton as the two writers who expressed most completely the Puritan ideal. He expected Pilgrim's Progress to live as it expressed the universal quest of mankind. There were several readings from Bunyan's works which added greatly to the interest. Mrs Smith read from 'Grace Abounding' the book which is his spiritual autobiography. R.H. Robson read the Fight with Apollyon C.I. Evans [ditto] The trial scene in Vanity Fair Mrs Unwin [ditto] The Interpreter's House. In the general discussion some doubt was expressed of C.E. Stansfield's opinion that the Pilgrim's progress will live. It was felt by some that the story will always be attractive to children, but that the puritan flavour & crude theology would prevent it becoming anything more than an interesting historical document for older people'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Samuel Pepys : Diary

'The rest of the evening was spent in the company of Samuel Pepys (Peeps) The Club was much indebted to H.M. Wallis and to H.R. Smith for able essays giving an outline of Pepys' life & an estimate of his character. From H.R. Smith we were introduced to Pepys as the competent official who by keenness made himself master of his job. Readings from the diary were given by Rosamund Wallis on "The Great Fire" Mrs Robson on Mrs Pepys E.E. Unwin on "The Plague" & R.H. Robson'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

 : Sir Patrick Spens

'The subject of the evening, 'Ballads', now occupied attention. From an introductory paper prepared by Mary Hayward & from readings by Rosamund Wallis we learnt what a ballad is or was & is not. [this is summarised at length] The programme was divided into six parts dealing with the six main varieties of ballads. Some of these ballads were read & others were sung. Part 1. dealing with Magic Song The Two Musicians Mr & Mrs Unwin Reading The Demon Lover Mr Rawlings [ditto] Thomas the Rhymer Miss R Wallis Part 2. Stories of Romance Song Lord Rendel The Book Club Reading Edward Edward (Binnorie) R.B Graham Instead of Binnorie we were favoured by a rendering of a Berkshire version of this story by Mr Graham. In fact he broke forth into song & was assisted in the chorus refrain by the whole Club who sang with differing emphasis "And I'll be true to my love - if my love'll be true to me". part 3. Romance Shading into History reading Sir Patrick Spens Mr R.H. Robson [ditto] Bonnie house of Airly [sic] Mr H.R. Smith Part 4. Greenwood & Robin Hood Reading Nut Brown Maid Mr & Mrs Evans [ditto] Death of Robin Hood Mr Rawlings H.M. Wallis read at this stage an interesting paper upon the subject [contents summarised] Part 5. Later History Reading Battle of Otterburn Miss Marriage [ditto] Helen of Kirconnel H.M. Wallis Part 6. Showing gradual decline Song Bailiff's Daughter of Islington Mrs Robson Reading Undaunted Mary Mrs Rawlings Song Mowing the Barley All Song The Wealthy Farmer's Son Mr & Mrs Unwin'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Unknown

  

James Boswell : Life of Johnson

'The evening was then devoted to Samuel Johnson as seen through the biography of Boswell. Two papers were contributed. By Mr Burrow on "a Second Hand Book" which threw an interesting sidelight on Dr Johnson & By H.R. Smith who gave us an interesting account of the biographer. Readings from the biography were given by Mr Rawlings, Mr Unwin, Mr Evans & Mr Wallis, Mr Robson'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Reginald Robson : [paper on Housman's 'New Child's Guide to Knowledge']

'The rest of the evening was devoted to the works of Laurence Housman. Most of the members had seen & heard Mr Housman recently so there is no need to give any personal details & H.M. Wallis's encyclopaedic summary of Housman's artistic gifts & works put us in touch with the versatility of the man. "A charming man" says H.M.W. & so say all of us tho' I'm not sure whether someone did not say "a little effeminate". It was news perhaps to some to know that "An Englishwoman's Love Letters" published some years ago anonymously were by Housman. The bill of fare was varied & we were introduced to a novel, a St Francis play, a Victorian play & the Child's Guide to Knowledge. The choice whether conscious or otherwise gave us a rather curious result for in the main it dealt with the struggles & characters of women. Mrr & Mrs Evans dealt with The Sheepfold which relates the spirited history of a woman, 'Jane Sterling'. R.B. Graham chose out of all the St Francis cycle the coming of Sister Clair into the monkish community. Miss Marriage. E.E. Unwin & Alfred Rawlings gave a part-reading of "The Queen God Bless Her" which brought into prominence the foibles of Victoria and showed her in relation to two intimates, John Brown her favourite man-servant & Beaconsfield - her favourite minister. There was but little time left for R.H. Robson to display the fun of "A Child's Guide to Knowledge".'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Laurence Housman : New Child's Guide to Knowledge

'The rest of the evening was devoted to the works of Laurence Housman. Most of the members had seen & heard Mr Housman recently so there is no need to give any personal details & H.M. Wallis's encyclopaedic summary of Housman's artistic gifts & works put us in touch with the versatility of the man. "A charming man" says H.M.W. & so say all of us tho' I'm not sure whether someone did not say "a little effeminate". It was news perhaps to some to know that "An Englishwoman's Love Letters" published some years ago anonymously were by Housman. The bill of fare was varied & we were introduced to a novel, a St Francis play, a Victorian play & the Child's Guide to Knowledge. The choice whether conscious or otherwise gave us a rather curious result for in the main it dealt with the struggles & characters of women. Mrr & Mrs Evans dealt with The Sheepfold which relates the spirited history of a woman, 'Jane Sterling'. R.B. Graham chose out of all the St Francis cycle the coming of Sister Clair into the monkish community. Miss Marriage. E.E. Unwin & Alfred Rawlings gave a part-reading of "The Queen God Bless Her" which brought into prominence the foibles of Victoria and showed her in relation to two intimates, John Brown her favourite man-servant & Beaconsfield - her favourite minister. There was but little time left for R.H. Robson to display the fun of "A Child's Guide to Knowledge".'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: BookManuscript: Unknown

  

Anatole France : Penguin Island

'Miss Marriage then gave us some notes on Anatole France [sic] Life with references to some of his work & the order of their production. F.E. Pollard read an amusing account of an unconventional dinner party from "La Reine Pedauque" & A. Rawlings gave us some extracts from "The Memoirs of Abbe Coignard". After supper R.H. Robson amused us with the story of the Baptism of the penguins by the Blessed Mael "Penguin Island" & Mrs Evans gave us a glimpse of France's more sober philosophy in a series of short essays from "The Garden of Epicures". Mrs Rawlings read a charming passage on Joan of Arc and Miss Marriage read us one of the cynical passages from a novel "The Red Lily".'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Arthur Quiller-Couch : 'Once aboard the lugger'

'Mr Robson then gave us some short notes on Sir A.T. Quiller Couch and read us his short story "Once aboard the lugger". H.M. Wallis gave us an appreciation of 'Q's' work & read a tragic short story & poem. Mr Evans read from Couch's lecture on the Art of Writing an Interlude on Jargon. H.R. Smith read from the Mayor of Troy Mr Stansfield whose health unfortunately did not allow him to be present sent a short appreciation of Quiller Couch's novel Pho & Farrell [sic] and Miss Marriage read a short story (very sad). Perhaps the selection of his work put before us was a little one-sided for the club certainly got the impression of a writer too fond of the gloom & pain of life'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Anthony Trollope : Warden, The

'The rest of the evening was devoted to Anthony Trollope. C.E. Stansfield read an amusing passage from Dr Thorne. H.M. Wallis gave us a full & racy sketch of Trollopes life interspersed with short extracts from his works illustrative of his love of Fox hunting & his broad grasp of the social life of English upper class & clerical life. H.R. Smith read from "The Prime Minister" & F.E. Pollard gave a short appreciation of Trollopes work from which it appeared that he was not quite in the first rank of Victoriann writers, he does not attempt the greatest problems but he does quite perfectly the job he sets out to do; his pictures of life are real his, [sic] characters are not mere puppets but are all alive. R.H. Robson read from the Warden & F.E. Pollard from "the three Clerks" bringing to a conclusion a delightful evening in which many renewed old acquaintances whilst others were introduced to much that was new to them.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

George Gordon, Lord Byron : 'Isles of Greece, The'

'H.R. Smith then gave some account of Lord Byron's Life. Mrs Burrough [sic] read part of Mazzeppa [sic]. C.E Stansfield then read a critique of Byron's work showing he belonged to the Romantic Movement especially as it was a Recoil of the Human Spirit against Tyranny. His work is witty & vitriolic full of energy & passion. Mr Robson expounded Childe Harold to us and Alfred Rawlings read to us from the same poem 4th canto. Mr Robson then read The Isles of Greece and Mr Pollard a stirring passage the Giaour'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

George Gordon, Lord Byron : Childe Harold's Pilgrimage

'H.R. Smith then gave some account of Lord Byron's Life. Mrs Burrough [sic] read part of Mazzeppa [sic]. C.E Stansfield then read a critique of Byron's work showing he belonged to the Romantic Movement especially as it was a Recoil of the Human Spirit against Tyranny. His work is witty & vitriolic full of energy & passion. Mr Robson expounded Childe Harold to us and Alfred Rawlings read to us from the same poem 4th canto. Mr Robson then read The Isles of Greece and Mr Pollard a stirring passage the Giaour'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

William de Morgan : Alice for Short

'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: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Walt Whitman : 

'F.E. Pollard gave some account of Walt Whitman's Life indicating the variety of livelyhood [sic] & of expression which he sought he also told us something of the leading ideas expressed in his work "The Splendour of Life" World wide Comradeship Immortality Freedom Broad Vistas. Geo Burrow read from the poem Memories of President Lincoln. After supper R.B. Graham read Captain, My Captain & Manhattan Faces. F.E. Pollard sang "Ethiopian Saluting the Colours". R.H. Robson amused us by reading passages showing Whitman's fondness for lists. In the discussion which concluded the evening it was concluded that whilst Whitman is often effective his poems are often not poetry.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Hugh Walpole : Cathedral, The

'The subject for the evening Hugh Walpole was then taken F.E. Pollard giving us a brief outline of the writer's life. Mrs Robson read from "Fortitude" & Mrs Pollard from "The Secret City". After supper the Secretary attempted some analysis & estimate of Walpoles work which was followed by some discussion. Mr Stansfield read from "Jeremy" & in conclusion Mr Robson read from "The Cathedral". An interesting evening about work which both attracts & repels. The man perhaps just missing greatness but frequently gripping us by powerful intriguing work.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

J. C. Squires : [poem possibly entitled 'Birds']

'The Club then listened to a variety of readings from modern poets as follows: A Rawlings Extracts from "The Art of Poetry" T.C. Eliott from Chesterton's "Lepanto" Mrs Evans some verses by Colin D. B. Ellis R. H. Robson from J. C. Squires "Birds" D. Brain from Noyes' "Torch Bearers" C. I. Evans from Thos Hardy G. Burrow poems by his brother F. E. Pollard from Siegfried Sassoon Mrs Pollard from W. Watson's "Lakeland" C. E. Stansfield from Rupert Brooke A. Rawlings from E. V. Lucas & Lang Jones'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Thomas Hardy : Far from the Madding Crowd

'F. E. Pollard read an article on Thos Hardy by Arnold Bennett S. A. Reynold [sic] spoke on Hardy's country with books & illustrations & R. H. Robson read from "Far from the Madding Crowd. T. C. Elliott read some of Hardy's poems. Mrs Rawlings read a description of Egdon Heath from "the return of the Native" Muriel B. Smith read from The Mayor of Casterbridge & Miss Brain from Tess of the d'Urbervilles. Geo Burrow gave a short introduction to & some readings from the Dynasts. In conclusion F. E. Pollard made some provocative remarks which achieved their object'.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald Robson      Print: Book

  

Christopher Marlowe : Doctor Faustus

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: Reginald H. Robson      

  

Ben Jonson : Epicoene, or the Silent Woman

There followed an amusing passage from Ben Jonsons Silent Woman with C I Evans as Morose Geo Burrow as Mute & R H Robson as Truewit.

Unknown
Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      

  

Reginald H. Robson : The Abolition of the House of Commons

'A Meeting held at 9 Denmark Rd 13/11/1928 F. E. Pollard in the chair

1. Minutes of last read and approved


[...]

8[.] Essays were read (1) Alfred Rawlings on Beauty (2) R H Robson on The Abolition of the House of Commons'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

William Shakespeare : The Tempest

'A meeting held at School House 4/12/28 T. C. Elliott in the chair

1 Minutes of the last read and approved


[...]

4 The Most Part of the Tempest was then read the Play being cast as follows.
Alonso King of Naples Mrs Stansfield.
Sebastian, his brother Miss Brain.
Prsopero [sic], the right Duke of Milan Mr Stansfield.
Antonio, his brother, usurping Duke of Milan Mr Elliott.
Ferdinand, son to King of Naples Mr Reynolds.
Gonzalo, honest old Counsellor Mr Rawlings.
Adrian, a Lord Mrs Pollard
Caliban, a savage and deformed slave Mr Pollard.
Trinculo, a Jester Mr Smith.
Stephano, a Drunken Butler Mr Robson
Miranda, daughter to Prospero Miss Bowman Smith
Ariel, an airy Spirit Miss Wallis
Mrs Rawlings read the stage directions
Mrs [or Mr.?] Robson sang some of Ariel’s songs.'

Unknown
Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      

  

Victor Hugo : Toilers of the Sea (Les Travailleurs de la mer)

'A Meeting held at Oakdene 20/2/1929 S. A. Reynolds in the chair

1. Minutes of last Meeting read and approved


[...]

4. The Subject of the evening Victor Hugo was then taken[.] Howard R Smith gave a brief sketch of his life[.] Thos C. Elliott gave some estimate of Hugos verse & his position in French literature following this up by reading in French "Boaz" & Waterloo. after supper Mis Brain read from Les Miserables which was followed by some general discussion on Hugos work. R. H. Robson read from Toilers of the sea & H. B. Lawson read from Ninety three'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

William Shakespeare : Henry IV Part 1 (Act II scene I: the men in buckram)

'A Meeting held at Grove House May 3rd H. B. Lawson in the chair

Min 1. Minutes of last Read and approved


[...]

[Min] 4 The Subject of the evening "Humour" was then introduced by H. B. Lawson who fascinated us by his thoughtful attempts to define his subject[.] An interesting discussion followed in which the disputants backed their opinions by literary allusion and we were led to wonder if Humour flowed from F E Pollards heart & wit from R H Robsons head.

After Supper the Club settled down to enjoy the following selections chosen to represent English Humour in literature down the Ages[:]

Prologue of Chaucers Canterbury Tales The Prioress & Wife of Bath read by Howard R. Smith

Shakespeares Henry IV The Men in Buckram read by R. H Robson Fallstaff
[ditto] S. A. Reynolds Poins
[ditto] C. E. Stansfield Prince Hall [sic]
[ditto] Geo Burrow Gadshill
Jane Austin Pride & Prejudice Mr. Collins proposes
[ditto] Mrs Robson
Charles Dickens David Copperfield Mrs Micawber on her husbands career[?] Geo Burrow
Charles Lamb A Letter Alfred Rawlings
Lewis Carrols Alice in Wonderland The Lobster Quadrill Mary Reynolds
Jerome K. Jerome Three Men in a Boat Uncle Podger hangs a picture F. E. Pollard
Hilaire Belloc Cautionary Tales "George" recited by Howard R. Smith'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Sinclair Lewis : Babbitt

'A Meeting held at Broomfield June 6 1929

Geo H Burrow in the chair

Min 1. Minutes of last time read and approved


[...]

5 The Subject of the evening Modern American Literature was then taken F. E. Pollard introducing us to a number of Authors in a short general Survey. Geo Burrows then read us several short examples in Verse[.]

Rosamund Wallis read two passages from "the Bridge of St Louis Rey" by Thornton Wilder[.]

Thos C. Elliott read an essay on "War" by George Santiana[.]

Chas E Stansfield read a poem "Renaissance by E. St Vincent Millay[.]

R. H. Robson gave us two readings from Sinclair Lewis’s Babbit'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      

  

Reginald H. Robson : [essay on a family holiday]

'A Meeting held at 70 Northcourt Avenue 25th September 1929 C. E Stansfield in the chair

Min 1. Minutes of last time read and approved

2 Mrs T C Elliott was wellcomed to the club in a felicitous speech by the chairman

3 The Secretary read a letter of resignation of Membership from Muriel Bowman Smith he was directed unanimously to ask her to reconsider the matter.


[...]

7 Holiday Essays were read R H Robson a family holiday at Mort[?] Geo Burrow The Jamboree & thoughts thereon C. E. Stansfield on a Swiss Holiday whilst H M Wallis chatted on some aspects of Bordighera.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

John Galsworthy : The Roof

Meeting held at Broomfield June 3rd 1930
G. Burrow in the chair
1. Minutes of last read and approved
[...]
7. John Galsworthys “The Roof” was then read in parts
Gustave C.E. Stanfield
Hon R Fanning R. H. Robson
Major Moultenay H. M. Wallis
Baker H. R. Smith
Brice T. C. Elliott
Mr Beeton S. A. Reynolds
Mrs Beeton E. B. Smith
H. Lennox Geo Burrow
Evelyn Lennox Celia Burrow
Diana D. Brain
Brye J. Rawlings
A Nurse R. Wallis
A Young Man F. E. Pollard
A Young Woman Mrs Pollard
Froba Mrs Robson
Two Pompiers Thomas C. Elliott
Miss Stevens read the stage directions

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Hugh de Selincourt : The Cricket Match

'Meeting held at Fairlight: 9 Denmark Rd. 18th April 1932.

Francis Pollard in the Chair.

1. Minutes of last read and approved.

br/>[...]

4. F. E. Pollard then spoke on the spirit of Cricket, telling some good anecdotes to illustrate its fun and its art, both for those who play & those who frequently see it.[...]

5. Readings were then given by Victor Alexander from Nyren, by Howard Smith from Francis Thompson, & by R. H. Robson from de Delincourt's "The Cricket Match".'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Reginald H. Robson : [a paper on the life of Goethe]

Meeting held at Reckitt House, Leighton Park: 22.6.32

Reginald H. Robson in the Chair.

1. Minutes of the last read. It was felt that Minute 6 needed some amplification, & Charles Stansfield was asked to do this. His more than kind amplification is appended.


[...]

8. After adjournment for supper, the Goethe evening was begun by Mary E Robson. She sang the song "Knowst thou the land". The music is by Beethoven. In this and her other songs Mary Robson was kindly accompanied by Caroline Pollard.

9. A Reading from Goethe was next given by Mary S. W. Pollard.

10. Reginald H. Robson read a paper on the life of Goethe. If there were any who had thought of Goethe exclusively as a poet, they must have been amazed at his vesitality. Philosopher, poet, statesman, scientist, he seems to have been "everything by turns and nothing long", except indeed a lover [...].

11. We had been much intrigued with Mrs Robson's description of the Sorrows of Werther, especially when our friend warned us that those who came under the spell of this book usually commited suicide after reading it. We felt accordingly grateful to Mrs. Robson who had read it on our behalf, and flirted with death for our sakes, and not a little apprehensive when Janet Rawlings read us an extract from it. All passed off well, however. [...]

12. George Burrow read a song from Goethe's Gefunden.

13. Mary Robson sang "My peace is o'er" from Faust.

14. A Reading from the same play was given by Elisabeth & Victor Alexander

15. Another song "Little wild rose, wild rose red." was sung by Mary Robson.

16. Finally Charles E. Stansfield gave us his paper on Goethe. He referred to the lack of the political sense in the German people of those days, & showed Goethe as quite content to acquiesce in the paternal government of his small state. He described the influence of Herde[,] Klopstock, Lessing, Shakespeare, &, quaintly enough, of Goldsmith on Goethe. In speaking of the poet's scientific interests he told us of his discovery of the intermaxillary bone & of Goethe's ceaseless efforts to acquire truth.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Howard Smith : [A paper on English justice]

Meeting held at Fairlight, Denmark Rd.: 21.iii.33

Francis E. Pollard in the Chair.

1. Minutes of last read & approved.


5. Eight anonymous essays were then read. In some of these the subject treated or the style of the author made recognition comparatively easy, but others were provocative of much ingenious speculation. A paper on English Justice proved to be the most discussed during the interval. Rival tipsters gave in confidence the names of Mrs. Stansfield & Robert Pollard as the author, one of them purporting to recognize - or coming perilously close to so doing - Mrs. Stansfield’s opinion of her fellow magistrates, while the other detected just that ingenious combination of Fascism and Bolshevism that Robert Pollard would enjoy putting up for the Club’s mystification. Further conflicting theories attributed the authorship to Henry Marriage Wallis or Howard Smith, & this last proved correct[....]


Another essay which stirred debate told of a medium, a photograph, a Twentieth Century Officer & a suit of medieval armour. It was told with that precision of detail that marks either the experienced writer of fiction or the worshipper of truth. And as if to darken counsel there was an open allusion to Bordighera. Suspicious though we were, & in spite of every appearance of our being right, we adhered to the view that the author must be H. M. Wallis.


Time & space do not allow adequate record of all the papers, but it must be mentioned that three of the eight came from the Rawlings family: a thoughtful essay by Alfred Rawlings needed a second reading if it were to be seriously discussed, some interesting reminiscences by Helen Rawlings made very good hearing, & Moroccan memories by Janet helped to make a most varied programme.

Other essays were "Safety First" by Charles E. Stansfield, and "The English - are they modest? " by Edgar Castle, both of which added some humorous touches to the evening.

A list of essayists, & their readers, follows.

Mrs Castle read a paper by Alfred Rawlings
Janet Rawlings read a paper by Helen Rawlings
Charles Stansfield read a paper by Henry M. Wallis
Reginald Robson read a paper by Howard Smith
George Burrow read a paper by Reginald Robson
Alfred Rawlings read a paper by Edgar Castle
Howard Smith read a paper by Janet Rawlings
Mrs Pollard read a paper by Charles E. Stansfield.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Dorothy Brain : Hors d’Oeuvres

Meeting held at Oakdene, Northcourt Av, 20.3.34.

Sylvanus A. Reynolds in the Chair.

1. Minutes of last read and approved, in the teeth of one dissident.


[...]

5. We then proceeded to the anonymous essays and members felt on excellent terms with themselves at the prospect of hearing some attractive reading and of eluding or inflicting a good hoax or two.

The first essay opened discreetly without title on the theme of “Newcomers to Reading”, going on to a description of the neighbourhood, its beauties its quaint place names and historical associations. […]

6. Next came a paper on “Uniforms”. The writer was considered by one or two to show the observation of the masculine mind and the style of the feminine. […]

7. Then came a letter to "My dear Twelve" written with the unmistakeable touch of the practised writer. […]

8. We listened, too, with equal interest to a paper called “Canaries”, telling us something of the progress and perambulations of our latest migrant members. Moreover two or three of our number were able to follow their doings with particular appreciation, having mad much the same trip themselves. […]

9. All of us were a good deal non plussed by “Hors d’Oeuvres”, an essay not inappropriately named, for it contained a perplexing mixture of fare, and certainly stimulated our appetite. […]

10. Hardly less difficult was “Glastonbury”. Many of us had visited it, and so were able to follow closely the author’s points. But few of us knew enough of its history and legend to be sure whether or no our one professional historian had set his wits before us. So we gave up reasoning and just guessed. […]

11. Finally we heard “Spoonbill”. It was a noteworthy paper, combining the love of the naturalist for the birds he watches with the craft of the writer in the language he uses. […]

12. Here is the complete list. —

“Newcomers to Reading” by H. R. Smith, read by F. E. Pollard
“Uniforms” by Janet Rawlings, read by Elizabeth Alexander
“My dear Twelve” by H. M. Wallis, read by S. A. Reynolds
“Canaries” by C. E. Stansfield, read by Dorothy Brain
“Hors d’Oeuvres” by Dorothy Brain, read by R. H. Robson
“Glastonbury” by Mrs Goadby, read by H. R. Smith
“The Spoonbill” by W. Russell Brain, read by Mrs. Robson

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

Reginald H. Robson : [On the artistic and socialist aspects of William Morris’s work]

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: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Unknown

  

J. W. Mackail : The Life of William Morris

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: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Samuel Pepys : Diary

'Meeting held at 70 Northcourt Avenue: 18. 6. 35.

Charles E. Stansfield in the Chair

1. Minutes of last read and approved.

2. The Secretary then read a letter from Marjorie C. Cole, expressing her interest in the Book Club and offering us a book “Gone Rambling” by Cecil Roberts which she had recently read with enjoyment. [...]


[...]

6. The large subject of London was then opened by Howard Smith. He spoke of the extraordinary insistence of the divergent views as its origin, leaning to the opinion that it owed its beginnings to to a variety of causes.


[...]

7. Extracts from Defoe’s Journal of the Great Plague were then read by Victor Alexander.


[...]

8. From Defoe we turned to Pepys, and Reginald Robson described the Great Fire.


[...]

9. We next enjoyed a delightful picture of old London which Edith Goadby gave us, making the acquaintance of Gabriel Bardon the locksmith, his pretty daughter Dolly and Simon the apprentice. It was all too short, but at least we left them happily seated before their jolly round of beef, their Yorkshire cake and quaintly shaped jug of ale.


10. A further scene was depicted for us by Ethel Stevens, old Crosby Hall, Chelsea Hospital, Cheyne walk as it used to be, and Carlyle’s house, where he entertained Tennyson in the kitchen. We were introduced to John Stuart Mill and his great concern over the loss of his fiend’s manuscript of the French Revolution, and we took glimpses at William de Morgan + Sir Thomas More.


11. Finally Charles Stansfield read us Wordsworth’s Sonnet composed on Westminster Bridge, and Henry Marriage Wallis quoted happily ten lines from William Morris.'

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Reginald H. Robson : The Excursion – Saturday July 13th. 1935: Byways of the Chiltern Hills

Meeting held at School House, L. P. : 13.9.35

   Francis E. Pollard in the Chair.

1. Minutes of last read and approved.

2. Account of the Excursion, contributed by R. H. Robson, read and approved.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Manuscript: Notebook, with photographs of the excursion pasted alongside the text.

  

Percy Bysshe Shelley :  Prometheus Unbound

Meeting held at School House, L.P. :- 28. v. 37.

C. E. Stanfield in the Chair.

1. Minutes of last read & approved

[...]

4. Charles Stansfield then read a biographical sketch of Shelley, followed by an estimate of Shelley’s views and character.


5. Readings were then given by the following
Hymn to Intellectual Beauty by Mary Pollard
Prometheus Unbound by Reginald Robson
Ode to the West Wind by Elizabeth Alexander
Adonaïs by Victor Alexander.


These were all discussed; and a further short reading, from William Watson’s poetry, was given by Alfred Rawlings.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      

  

Sinclair Lewis : Dodsworth

Meeting held at 70 Northcourt Avenue: 14. 12. 37
[...]
6. The evening was completed by the reading of extracts from the works of various authors who had recently been awarded the Nobel prize for Literature. In the interests of truth it should perhaps be mentioned that the reading from French and Russian authors were given from English translations.
R. H. Robson read from Dodsworth by Sinclair S. Lewis
Mary S. W. Pollard [read from] The Village [by] Ivan Bunin
L. Dorothea Taylor [read from] All God’s Chillun Got Wings [by] Eugene E. O'Neill
H. R. Smith [read from] Les Thibault by Roger M. du Gard
S. A Reynolds [read from] White Monkey [by] J. Galsworthy

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Saki [pseud.] : Beasts and Super-Beasts

February 15th was the date chosen for the next time and the subject “Books that people have been reading”


Meeting held at Oakdene: Northcourt Av.–15.2.38 Sylvanus A. Reynolds in the Chair.


1. Minutes of last read and approved

[...]


4. The first reading came from Reginald Robson who gave us an amusing extract from “Beasts & Superbeasts” by H. H. Munro


5. Mary S. Stansfield read from “Lawrence by his Friends” some interesting impressions contributed by some of these friends to a book edited by Lawrence’s brother. One passage by a man who knew Lawrence as a fellow aircraftman gave us a picture of him as a thoroughly likeable and popular hero, admired for his prowess as a motorcyclist.


6. Howard L. Sikes then read from Africa View by Julian Huxley. The passage concerned the respective advantages of Indirect and Direct Rule[...]. This reading produced considerable discussion on the same questions, and spread over on to the attitude of the French and the British toward their African dependant peoples, and members found something to ask or to say about almost every corner of Africa[...].


7. Elizabeth T. Alexander followed with an entertaining reading from Halliday Sutherland’s “A time to keep”. We shall carry in our minds for some time the dramatic appearance of Red William in his nightshirt urging the ladies in evening dress to run for their lives.


8. Roger Moore gave us some excellent fun in his reading from Benjamin Robert Haydon’s Autobiography, and we made some discoveries about Charles Lamb and Wordsworth too.


9. F. E. Pollard, greatly daring, then read from the “Comments of Bagshott” [sic] some shrewd remarks about the male and female of the human species[...].


10. H. R. Smith completed the programme with some well chosen paragraphs from “Those English” by Carl [i.e. Curt] von Stutterheim.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

  

Saki [pseud.] : Beasts and Super-Beasts

February 15th was the date chosen for the next time and the subject “Books that people have been reading”


Meeting held at Oakdene: Northcourt Av.–15.2.38 Sylvanus A. Reynolds in the Chair.


1. Minutes of last read and approved

[...]


4. The first reading came from Reginald Robson who gave us an amusing extract from “Beasts & Superbeasts” by H. H. Munro


5. Mary S. Stansfield read from “Lawrence by his Friends” some interesting impressions contributed by some of these friends to a book edited by Lawrence’s brother. One passage by a man who knew Lawrence as a fellow aircraftman gave us a picture of him as a thoroughly likeable and popular hero, admired for his prowess as a motorcyclist.


6. Howard L. Sikes then read from Africa View by Julian Huxley. The passage concerned the respective advantages of Indirect and Direct Rule[...]. This reading produced considerable discussion on the same questions, and spread over on to the attitude of the French and the British toward their African dependant peoples, and members found something to ask or to say about almost every corner of Africa[...].


7. Elizabeth T. Alexander followed with an entertaining reading from Halliday Sutherland’s “A time to keep”. We shall carry in our minds for some time the dramatic appearance of Red William in his nightshirt urging the ladies in evening dress to run for their lives.


8. Roger Moore gave us some excellent fun in his reading from Benjamin Robert Haydon’s Autobiography, and we made some discoveries about Charles Lamb and Wordsworth too.


9. F. E. Pollard, greatly daring, then read from the “Comments of Bagshott” [sic] some shrewd remarks about the male and female of the human species[...].


10. H. R. Smith completed the programme with some well chosen paragraphs from “Those English” by Carl [i.e. Curt] von Stutterheim.

Century: 1900-1945     Reader/Listener/Group: Reginald H. Robson      Print: Book

 

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