EXCURSION TRIP TO RYDE.
On Tuesday morning last the kind and respected master of Churcher CoIIege, Mr. Dusautoy, with the second master, proceeded by the first the train down from this town, accompanied by the ‟boys upon the foundation,” and boarders, with their parents, &c.. from kindly invite given, for a day’s excursion trip to the Isle of Wight, by way of celebrating the half centenary residence of the master beneath the roof of this noble institution, bequeathed by the charitable founder whose name it bears. The weather, although not possessing the genial rays of bright Sol to smile upon, and give warmth and extent of vision to Nature’s splendid picture opened before them, yet, nevertheless, it was favourable, when contrasted with the gloomy atmosphere and drenching wet of the last month or six weeks, so as to give a rich treat to both our adult and junior excursionists. And, although we are not disposed to tire our readers with a long yarn, in travelling along ‟o’er flood and field upon the occasion, still, it may be necessary to report short progress, that may be somewhat interesting, at least to some, particularly the young collegians and others, who, perhaps for the first time, ventured to cross an arm of the mighty deep, upon whose bosom their generous benefactor accumulated that store which enabled him to house, clothe, feed, and ‟teach the young ideas how to shoot” along the chequered path and scenes of undeveloped life. Arriving at the station, out party were soon comfortably stowed away in second class carriage, happily anticipating the pleasures of the day, and as merry as crickets upon travel, till they arrived at the Landport station. Here the railway was exchanged for the tram, to the pier at Southsea (from whence the gallant Nelson took his last step on England’s soil), where we embarked and steamed to Ryde; not, however, without certain cravings for the comforts of inner man upon landing. A consultation was at once held, and comfortable quarters found, when the well-filled hampers were opened and set upon with a gusto that did full justice to the commissariat arrangements throughout. This being over, Ryde and its scenery, with Spring Vale and Sea View, explored, our party returned by Sea Wall to the Pier, where they lingered In delight to the inspiriting strains of a fine military band. After which they recrossed Spithead, homeward bound, and arrived by the last train up, highly delighted by their day’s trip, and gratified by the liberal treat of the principal of Churcher College.