On Monday evening, Nov 18th, a service for the commemoration of benefactors was held in Abby, by permission of the Dean. The service, which was entirely in Latin consisted of several Psalms and the Deum set to Gregorian music & chanted in union; the lesson read by the Dean, a long sort of preface setting forth the benefits conferred in the School since its foundation & concluding with a list of principal Benefactors – read by the Headmaster; Mr. Gladstone’s Latin version of Toplady’s “Rock of ages” set to Anthem music by F. Bridge; & a sermon by Rev Canon Ellison, OW. The service prayers & other choral parts of the service were entered by Rev. D. Troutbeck.
The choir consisted of the Abbey chorister boys, a select choir of male voices, four OWW of about 30 fellows from the school. The TBB who sang, attired in surplices kindly (?) lent by S. Margaret’s joined the procession, walking immediately after QSS.
It is only fair to say that the singers from the school (who did not take part in the Anthem) were rather hampered than otherwise by the other singers.
The service was followed by a reception up school (by the H.M. and Masters) which was very largely attended.
F. G. Eccles. Prin: Opp: