FOURTH TERM CADETS ON BOARD THE “ISIS.”
Photo: W. M. Crockett, Plymouth.
An early start was necessary next morning, so they breakfasted at 6.45 a.m., left at 8, and reached Charing Cross at 9, whence they marched to the Admiralty, where Mr. Goschen, the First Lord, had made all hospitable provision for them. At 10.30 they marched to Buckingham Palace to salute the Queen as she drove off; then back to the Admiralty to a sumptuous lunch. At 1.15 fall in again, and march to the Palace to mount guard on the Queen’s return. Then they returned to the Admiralty for a “stand easy,” and lay about on the grass in the First Lord’s garden, which they found very pleasant; and the enjoyment of their repose was presently enhanced by the appearance of unlimited ginger-beer, served out by Mr. Goschen’s two sons. Finally, tea was served in the First Lord’s house, and they marched to Paddington in time for their train, at six o’clock; very tired—and no wonder—but happy. What time they got on board is not stated; but, doubtless, they were allowed a good lie in next morning.
Those who did not go to London for the procession were taken to see the Spithead Review, on the 26th, which was, perhaps, still better worth seeing.
Jubilee year was further signalised by the institution of the Queen’s medal, to be awarded annually, by the vote and selection of his comrades, to the cadet who is deemed to be foremost in good conduct and gentlemanly bearing in all respects.
This honorable trophy was awarded at Christmas, 1897, to Midshipman J. W. Scott, who had already gone to sea, and was serving in H.M.S. Astræa; Cadet G. B. Alexander receiving the “diploma,” which is a necessary step towards receiving the medal next time.
The editor is busy again asking questions. “How is it,” he wants to know, “that so few cadets are to be seen dancing in the evening? Hardly one of the third and fourth terms is to be seen. They are hard at work, no doubt, but a quarter of an hour devoted to dancing every night, instead of ‘x,’ would invigorate their brains to further efforts in pursuit of that wily letter. They will have sometimes to attend dances, and if they have to say they can’t, what a nuisance they become to themselves and others.”
Most true; and, as we recollect, dancing was included in the curriculum in the old Academy, and for a considerable portion of the College time; it is not easy to see where time could be found for it in the course on board the Britannia.