Free Sin by Josephine Hart Page A

Donn, Latin
    Stephen has a natural flair for Greek. He has the heart of a classicist combined with the temperament of an artist. We await development!
    Xavier James, Greek
    Stephen is an outstanding pupil, particularly in French literature. He is currently entranced by Baudelaire, though I feel I ought to inform you that he has moved well past the class curriculum in respect of this author. Stephen’s sardonic use of the quotation “calme, luxe et volupté” for a class essay on “House Atmosphere” rather gave the game away! I have specifically forbidden “Les fleurs du Mal,” a decision with which I feel confident you will be in full agreement. Let us hope this does not dampen Stephen’s enthusiasm for French.
    Alistair Knight, French
    Stephen’s essays are in reality “short stories.” They demonstrate a maturity that is extraordinary. His rather wild sense of humour takes the sting out of some of his more morbid writings.
    James Sanders, English
    No mathematician he. What more can I say? We do our best to inculcate, against his natural inclinations, the rudiments of mathematical principles, and mostly fail. I suggest after O levels that the subject be dropped entirely. No one benefits. Stephen is however always pleasant in his behaviour and ironically I always enjoy having him in the class.
    Duncan Heychurch, Mathematics
    It is not wise in my opinion that Stephen has allowed himself to become so enamoured of some subjects, that others seem to bore him. Geography is important. I gained Stephen’s attention only once—during the debate “Geography Is History.” His subsequent essay on the subject was brilliant. I have, in fact, taken the liberty of submitting it for the “Ovington Award” this year. It would be a great honour for the school were he to win, though not necessarily “character building” for Stephen. A familiar dilemma.
    Michael Moore, Geography
    Stephen enjoys history and is always in the top three. His essays are as memorable for their style as for their content—a rarity amongst historians! He is a pleasure to have in the classroom and he contributes much to debates.
    Alex Dunnington, History
    Though reasonable at science, Stephen’s behaviour in the lab this term was, on one or two occasions, potentially dangerous. A calmer, more considered approach is called for. Perhaps his move to Mr. Trent’s house will achieve what is necessary in this department.
    Colin Thornton, Science
    Stephen is above average at art. He is not however as committed as one would have expected. Nevertheless, his exciting use of colour and his interesting view of even the most basic object is always fascinating. Could surprise us all—in art, that is.
    Miles Masterson, Art
    Stephen’s work in the gymnasium is reasonably good. His tennis is adequate—he seems not to make much effort—perhaps intimidated by his cousin William’s success. Stephen’s tendency to asthma makes swimming “not his favourite sport.” We persevere in this element. Not a natural one for Stephen, I’m afraid.
    Arthur Caldwell, Physical Education
    Stephen had two minor attacks of asthma this term. We are increasingly aware of the psychosomatic element in asthma. The more Stephen “calms down,” the better it will be for him. The move to the Trents’ house is welcomed by me. I have long recommended this idea.
    Megan Owyston, SRN, Matron
    I put these reports, which I now know almost by heart, back in their carved wooden box. And picked up a crumpled article from years ago called
    The Artist in His Time
Brannington Orchard, Art Critic
    Is it a failure in the artist to be unfashionable? Each artist lives in his or her own “modern” time. Are we simply looking for landmarks? Ever hoping, through a recognisable historical pattern, to tame something essentially timeless. The artistic impulse.
    I pose these