At the same time, when you can get your own clubroom, no matter how small, it gives the boys more a sense of proprietorship and responsibility, especially if they have taken a hand themselves in making the furniture, putting up pictures, etc.
The clubroom must not be made cosy like a lady's boudoir, as the boys must be able to romp in it occasionally, or play handball or "Bang the Bear," etc. So you want furniture that will pack away into a corner, such as folding wooden chairs, small tables, and a cupboard in which to put away books, games, etc., when the romp comes on.
The ideal club is one of two rooms—one for quiet games, reading and talking; the other for romping, gymnastics, etc.
The boys must of course pay subscription towards rent, lighting, furnishing, etc., and the major expenses must be provided for by means of some joint work by them, such as garden produce, toys, displays or bazaars (as described in Appendix).
One penny weekly, paid strictly in advance, is sufficient as a membership subscription.
A Penny Savings Bank should be started to enable boys to put by money to pay for outings and eventually to start them in the practice of thrift.
A piano is of great help in a club, if you have some one who can play it, to help out songs, musical drill, war-dances, etc.
THE HANDBOOK.
The Handbook is merely intended to offer suggestions, not to tie instructors to one set course.
In such brief space it can only touch sketchily upon subjects whose detail as instructor you must fill in for yourself, according to your own imagination and resourcefulness, to suit your particular local circumstances.