St Agnes High School - Agnita Yearbook (West Chester, PA)

Text from Pages 1 - 112 of the 1943 volume:

� � ST. AGNES HIGH SCHOOL ANNUAL Edited and Published by the Tor God and Country' WEST CHESTER - PENNSYLVANIA 6 June, MCMXLIII THE AGNITA DEDICATION This Special War Issue of is Dedicated by the Class of 1943 With Pride and Prayerful Affection, to You, the Graduates of St. Agnes High School, West Chester, Pa., Who Serve in Our Armed Forces On Land, on Sea, and in the Air. 4 THE AGNITA REV. HENRY C. SCHUYLER, S.T.L., LL.D. OUR BELOVED PASTOR 5 THE AGNITA PATRONESS Our Lady of Victory CLASS Mono Pro Deo et Patria CLASS COLORS Red, White and Blue CLASS FLOWER Red Rose 6 THE AGNITA AGNITA STAFF Editor-in-Chief MARIE A. TESTA Assistant Editor ANNE M. DONOVAN Business Manager JANE K. SHELLER Sports Critics ROSALIND H. SWORDS C. WALLACE SHELLER Asst. Business Manager ELIZABETH M. AHN Personals FLORENCE M. SHELLER WILLIAM A. McCLAIN Humor CARMELA T. Di SANTI MARGARET M. FRAME MARY F. TAVANI 7 THE AGNITA PLEA TO OUR LADY OF VICTORY O dearest Lady, in so many ways We need thee in these our youthhood days! From the deepest depths of our souls we plead That thou for us wilt always intercede. In all life’s battles we ardently pray: Oh, come, dear patroness, to us and stay,- When woeful trials cut off our vision free, Then thou, dear Mother, come with victory! Dear Lady, we, thine own children, implore,- Do thou keep us close to thy heart’s pure door, Oh, keep us safe until life’s day is dore, Then lead us to Heaven and thy dear Son. 8 ethel m. McCarter THE AGNITA Our Lady of Victory, pray for us. 9 CLASS OF 1943 THE AGNITA GRADUATES President JOSEPH B. McGROGAN West Chester—Classical Vice-President JOHN J. FALCONE West Chester—Classical Secretary MARY F. TAVANI West Ch'ester—Commercial Treasurer CLAIRE M. LINDSAY Lenni—Classical ELIZABETH M. AHN, West Chester....................................Classical ANTHONY J. BARBER, Malvern........................................Classical THOMAS D. CASSIDY, Markham........................................Classical LAWRENCE E. COWAN, West Chester..................................Commercial MARTHA T. De ANGELO, West Chester................................Commercial CARMELA T. Di SANTI, West Chester................................Commercial ANNE M. DONOVAN, Berwyn..........................................Commercial ANN C. DORAN, Coatesville.........................................Classical FRANCIS J. FINEGAN, West Chester..................................Classical MARGARET M. FRAME, West Chester...................................Classical DORA R. GASPARI, West Chester.....................................Classical WILLIAM C. GILL, West Chester.....................................Classical MARY A. MATTIA, West Chester.....................................Commercial ETHEL M. McCARTER, West Chester...................................Classical WILLIAM A. McCLAIN, West Chester.................................Commercial JAMES E. McCOOL, West Chester.....................................Classical GERALD F. McCORMICK, West Chester.................................Classical MARY T. McCORMICK, West Chester...................................Classical HARRY C. McNAMEE, West Chester...................................Commercial JAMES T. PENNELL, West Chester...................................Commercial ANNA D. RICCARDO, West Chester...................................Commercial JOHN J. RILEY, West Chester.......................................Classical ELIZABETH M. SCHENKER, West Chester..............................Commercial C. WALLACE SHELLER, West Chester..................................Classical FLORENCE M. SHELLER, West Chester.................................Classical JANE K. SHELLER, West Chester....................................Commercial ROSALIND H. SWORDS, Malvern.......................................Classical HERMAN T. TAVANI, West Chester....................................Classical MARIE A. TESTA, Concordville......................................Classical RAYMOND A. WALDRON, West Chester..................................Classical JOHN T. WRIGHT, West Chester.....................................Commercial 11 THE AGNITA VICTORY The thundering terror and rebellious roar Of bitter, bloody war Barred all fond hope from me, Save one small voice, whispering so softly, Sweet “Victory.” The surging blood coursed hot to my tired head; I stumbled over the dead To reach a covering tree, When with three dots, a dash, my gun Beat “Victory.” Then sudden warmth came trickling, trickling down: How strange this new renown, From crimsoned clots not free!— A gloomy darkness—a glowing light—angels’ song “Lo, Victory!” 12 MARIE A. TESTA THE AGNITA PERSONALS What is more pleasing Than a class so gay, In whom we truly do confide? Whatever we do, Whatever we say, A friendship is securely tied. What is more touching Than a class so sad, Who, having marched on side by side, Must now bid farewell And go the broad way Into the vast world—oh, so wide! What is more endearing Than the school we know, By whose standards we do abide? For God and Country,” Our motto so true, In our hearts we’ll treasure with pride. 13 FLORENCE M. SHELLER THE AGNITA JOSEPH B. McGROGAN President “Moge” (Basketball) “No matter what his task may be, Our Joe will always find the key. U pright S ensible N onchalant JOHN J. FALCONE Vice-President “Johnnie” “The richest man, whatever be his lot, Is he who’s content with what]he has got.’ U rbane S agacious A rt-loving 14 THE AGNITA MARY F. TAVANI Secretary Mickey” Truth is honest; truth is sure,- Truth is strong and will endure. ” S erene P rudent A ccomplished R eliable CLAIRE M. LINDSAY Treasurer Claire” (Basketball) Happy from September to June, She always knows the latest tune.” W aggish A ffectionate A ttentive C heerful ELIZABETH M. AHN Betty” (Basketball) Always so sure, and never with a doubt, Betty will be certain the whole year out.” W ise A ttractive F astidious S tylish 15 THE AGNITA ANTHONY J. BARBER “Tony’’ (Basketball) Our Tony’s charm is a forecast Of a personality that will last. U nchangeable S pruce A dventurous C ongenial THOMAS D. CASSIDY Tom’’ (Basketball) So patient, so calm, and yet so carefree, In our memory Tom will ever be. U nconcerned S ociable M anly C apable LAWRENCE E. COWAN Lefty” In his modesty he stands alone,• _ He has a way that s all his own. U nfailing S turdy C ontented G enerous 16 THE AGNITA MARTHA T. De ANGELO Marty” (Basketball, co-captain) Her every goal she shall achieve, For she does pursue and believe.” W filing A lert F riendly S uccessful CARMELA T. Di SANTI “Carm” With years of service past, She is victorious at last.” W hole-souled A ccurate V ictorious E xemplary ■ ANNE M. DONOVAN Anne Our Anne will find much happiness, While marching onward to success.” N aive N eighborly C ourteous 17 THE AGNITA ANN C. DORAN Nancy ” 'This pleasant pupil, from the start, Has won a place in every heart.” A micable N atty C lever FRANCIS J. FINEGAN Babe” (Basketball) Untroubled by defeat, unawed by fear, His words are comforting,- his heart, sincere.’ U ndaunted S taunch N imble MARGARET M. FRAME Peggy” We are so proud of her—a little lass— Who in many contests has led the class.” S ystematic P atient A mbitious R eserved 18 THE AGNITA DORA R. GASPARI “Dora” “Of friendships sincere, we ll never regret; Of Dora’s true loyalty, who could forget?” W orthy A dmirable A ffectionate C haritable WILLIAM C. GILL “Orange” “Quiet, demure, never in a hurry, Here’s a boy without a care or worry.” U nflinching S ympathetic A rtistic MARY A. MATTIA “Mush” (Basketball, co-captain) “Virtue hath some perseverance; neither will She believe her own good nor other’s ill.” W arm-hearted A ristocratic F riendly S tately 19 THE AGNITA ethel m. McCarter “Chickie” (Basketball) “She has a way—not too demure, And many friends she shall secure.” W holesome A ffable V ersatile E nergetic WILLIAM A. McCLAIN “Bill “The youngest of the senior class is he. And as considerate as a sage would be.” U seful S tudious M odest C ontrolled JAMES E. McCOOL “Pete” (Basketball) “Although he’s very quiet, we must confess His intellect will bring hirti great success.” U nceasing S mart M annerly C areful 20 THE AGNITA GERALD F. McCORMICK Jerry (Basketball, captain) Honor s the noblest chase; pursue that game, And recompense defeat with fame.” U ndramatic S traighforward A miable C onservative MARY T. McCORMICK “Mary” (Basketball) You II find her pleasant, quiet and gay, As she does her part and goes her way.” A Itruistic N eat C onsiderate HARRY C. McNAMEE Mack” “Harry’s policy is to say The kindest thing in the kindest way.” U nspoiled S incere C onscientious G entle 21 THE AGNITA JAMES T. PENNELL Gig” “Keep on being as merry as you can, For none delights in a sorrowful man. U nprejudiced S killful N onchalant ANNA D. RICCARDO “Chink” (Basketball) “Kindness is a friend ever true— Keep it; guard it, whatever you do.” W itty A ctive V igilant E arnest JOHN J. RILEY “Fats” He’ll seldom need aid, Who has a good trade.” U ncompromising S hy A greeable 22 THE AGNITA ELIZABETH M. SCHENKER “Toots” Serene will be her days and bright For he' joy has filled us with all delight.” N obby N oble C onstant C. WALLACE SHELLER “Wally” (Basketball) “He never defers, he never demands. But smilingly takes the world in his hands.” U nbiased S uave A ssuasive C onfident FLORENCE M. SHELLER “Florrie” (Basketball) “She is faithful and constant and kind,— As sincere a Friend as you’ll ever find.” W ide-awake A stute A dept C harming 23 THE AGNITA JANE K. SHELLER Jane” (Basketball) In Jane is a charming independence For she has knowledge, skill and confidence. W atchful A rdent F rank S ociable ROSALIND H. SWORDS Boots” (Basketball) Her smile like the radiant sun Will warm and cheer everyone.” W insome A thletic V ivacious E nthusiastic HERMAN T. TAVANI Herman” True happiness is not.to place confined,- ■•rBut it does dwell in a contented mind.” U nsophisticated S teadfast M agnetic C ompanionable 24 THE AGNITA MARIE A. TESTA “Marie” “She’s of gentlest manners, and unaffected mind, A lover of peace, and friend of human-kind. S cholarly P opular A ttentive R esourceful RAYMOND A. WALDRON “Ray” “In many virtues does Raymond excel,-— For he lives twice who lives his first life well. U naffected S trong-minded C andid G allant JOHN T. WRIGHT “Jack” “Happy and jolly is Jack Wright— An advocate of wit’s delight.” U nassuming S olicitous A droi.t 25 THE AGNITA GROWING OLDER Tis in the blissful land of Make-believe,” That dream boats dock long before eve. There in the corner stands Little Boy Blue,” And sturdy Captain Kidd” with his great crew. Oh! What a lovely lady over there! Tis Cinderella with her flaxen hair. Oh, to be always so cheerful and gay, To live in the land where children dream by day! But there’s the joyous land of youth so fair. Is there anyone who’s never been there? The people are happy and laughing and gay; And no one is sad or troubled all day. Young folks are dancing with an even grace— Of want and misery there is no trace. Yet something is lacking. What can it be? When youth grows older perhaps it shall see. Tis in the blessed land of revered age That life is viewed in its august stage. Things are quite different here—so it seems— Though days are spent in dreaming sweet dreams. Here s a lovely Lady whom each one knows; To her children she never older grows. Does her youth seem so very strange to you? Remember, she’s our Mother, dressed in blue. 26 ethel m. McCarter THE AGNITA EDITORIALS Words are mighty, words are living,- Serpents with their venomous stings, Or bright angels crowding round us, With heaven s light upon their wings,- Every word has its own spirit, True or false, that never dies,- Every word man’s lips have uttered Echoes in God’s skies. ADELAIDE A. PROCTER 27 THE AGNITA VICTORY'S COMPANION By MARIE A. TESTA In times of panic, distress, war—in time of any crisis—the pendulum of life is compelled to swing back, sometimes so far back that we arrive at the simplest form of simplicity in living, hood, once intended to be rich and elegant, is now plain,- clothing, so adorned and ornamented, as it were, becomes almost dull. Due to various reasons, means of transportation are so reduced that one notices them to be almost primitive. In all, our natural outlook on life is changed and is formed on another basis. Under such conditions, almost instinctively man reverts to the simplicity of confidence. Not only in such a case, but always, confidence is the principal need. America s supreme need now is full confidence in Supreme Reality,- Reality is God. Just to hear the name of our country pro- nounced gives us a feeling of security,- we feel safe to be living in such a land. However, confidence in country without confidence in God is worthless. In the light of true hope our forefathers labored; our institutions were established,- our laws were enacted. Especially in such times as these we should remember that this country was founded upon religious trust. Knowing this, our country should mean much more to us than just opportunity for increasing prosperity. Nature, in itself, is a path by which we discover that our implicit confidence should be placed in Him who created us. We trust in God, because He is goodness and truth in an infinite degree,- He is at all times willing to provide for the least of His creatures. His justice is seasoned with mercy,- for though He is our Judge, why should He want to condemn us if He did so much for our redemption? As a reward for our fidelity, our trust, we have been promised eternal life with the Lord Himself. God sealed this great promise with the blood of His own Divine Son. Ihus when all seems hopeless, our confidence in God should remain firm, unshaken, like that of David who fought Goliath, and that of Daniel in the lions den. Very often one meets people who have a constant fear that they will some day regret their confidence in others. True, they will confide in their fellow-men, but not without reserve. They might justify their attitude by stating that once a trusted person broke his word or promise. Yet, it is well to know that trust, the confidence in another’s integrity, is the foundation of society. Whether or not we can get along with others depends on the respect we have for confidence. Our trust in others exposes our own qualities, for as Montaigne says: Confidence in another man’s virtue is no slight evidence of one’s own. True con- fidence dips in gold admirable traits and qualities of our character. Real trust will always be a distinguishing attribute of purest humanity. Emerson tells us very candidly that Self-trust is the essence of heroism. Countless are the times that brave hearts have done exalted 28 THE AGNITA deeds, because of the trust they have in themselves. As an example, let us take one of the most exalted characters in American History. No royal prince was he, and yet he was a hero. He was born in the midst of almost complete poverty, and in such was he reared. At an early age he became a favorite, because of his humor, knowledge, and witty speech. Besides having these gifts, he had a strong determination, strengthened by self-confidence. So perseveringly did he labor, and so faitnful was he to the high principles of living, that he merited for himself the presidency of the United States. This truly great hero is none other than the self-made man—Abraham Lincoln. He reached great heights, not for wnat he had, but for what he was. This mighty oak from an acorn grew.” Victory in the war seems to be of greatest interest today, but the results of this victory in the peace that is to come will be at least of equal interest. They will present a problem that will be hard to solve. We can surely, with God s help, solve it, if we keep strong and pure our trust in God, in our country, in our fellow-men, and in our- selves. OUR STAR SPANGLED BANNER By ANNE M. DONOVAN Barn during the Nation s infancy, I have grown with it, my stars increasing in number as the Country has grown in size,- the domain over which I wave expanding until the sun on my flying folds now never sets.”—The American Flag. Our flag is the symbol of the American people,- it is the symbol of all we are and all we hope to be. It is part of America, of Americans, regardless of race, creed, or color. It was part of America during the crucial days,- and when there was peace again, our flag proudly pro- claimed that peace. It is a pledge of America’s greatness,- it is the symbol of America’s destiny. George F. Hoar avowed: The fairest vision on which my eyes ever looked was the Flag of my Country in a foreign land. This is especially true today when countless numbers of American boys are on foreign shores. The sight of Freedom’s Banner” proudly blowing against the wind emphasizes only more clearly that they are fighting, and not in vain, that Liberty will once more reign over all freedom- loving people. Our nation s unstained immortal flag tells a story which must never be forgotten. It is something more than a neat color scheme. Its forty-eight stars tell of our present forty-eight states. They rest in a blue background above and side by side with the thirteen red and w.iite stripes that symbolize our pioneer struggling victory. 29 THE AGNITA The Red of our flag signifies the courage of men who sacrificed their blood for this infant nation’s freedom. This is true of every genera- tion, and most true today when another battle is being waged to preserve freedom. The White stands for purity. Secondly, it is Liberty speaking. It is the symbol of religious Liberty. To quote George Washington: “We take the star from heaven,- the red from the Mother Country, England, separating it with white stripes, thus showing that we have separated from her, and the white stripes shall go down to posterity representing Liberty.” The Blue proclaims loyalty. It tells the story of thousands who have been true to their Country through suffering and hardships—of men who have never hesitated to sacrifice their lives when the flag of their country was threatened. Our flag is a prized heritage. We must love and honor it because it is a part of a land carved out by the determination and righteousness of America’s own. A. P. Putman fully describes it: “Wherever the American Flag has gone it has been a herald of a better day—it has been the pledge of freedom, of justice, of order, of civilization, and of Christianity.’’ OUR PRESIDENT By ANNE M. DONOVAN Amid the anxiety of the country, amid the depression which was harassing its business men and industrialists, amid the agitators who were confusing a political world, a man was brought into focus who was to determine the destiny of our great nation. That man, Franklin D. Roosevelt, was chosen by an overwhelming majority of the people of these forty-eight United States. At the outset, Franklin Roosevelt succeeded in impressing the nation, and, under the most difficult circumstances, in winning the confidence and the enthusiasm of the masses. This can be attributed to the harmony which exists between his personality and that of the country. Roosevelt has a daring and vivacious character. His frankness and eloquence of speech are his predominating characteristics. In his youth he made friends rapidly. His engaging smile was a powerful magnet, which was to be a potent force in later years to gain for him the presidency of the United States. Terror struck Franklin Roosevelt when he was thirty-nine years of age. He had an attack of infantile paralysis. After the attack he said: “It is humiliating at the prime of life to be floored by an infant’s disease. 30 THE AGNITA With his legs powerless to move, his strength lay in his blue eyes and the will to conquer the unconquerable. Warm springs, Georgia, was the scene of his return to active life again. Today, his legs are still useless though he is able to stand by the support of braces. Because of his undying faith in God and in himself, he came to be known as the true friend of the people. President Roosevelt has succeeded in ruling the nation without fear; he has succeeded in Congress without ever being overbearing or weak. He has received the support and the approval of the majority of the people for a longer period of time than any other president in the history of the United States. He has governed our people as a president, not as a dictator. He is a man of the people and for the people. This is Franklin Roosevelt's strength,- politics is life to him. There is no rigidness, no narrowness in his practical outlook. He takes what he thinks best from both liberalism and conservatism. This is our President, Franklin D. Roosevelt, the man of the people, a man who will always be remembered in the hearts of the American people as the defender of democracy, the defender of the common rights of man 31 THE AGNITA COMMENCEMENT ORATOR It is the ambition of every senior class to have a graduation program that is characterized by a distinguishing feature. We, the Class of 1943, feel especially privileged in having as speaker for the occasion the well known and highly esteemed publisher, author, and lecturer, Frank Sheed. An Australian of Irish descent, Mr. Sheed was graduated with honors in Latin, French, and English, and was awarded the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws by Sydney University. Later he went to England where he founded a Catholic publishing house which aims at presenting Catholicism positively and at being a modium of expression for the whole Cqtholic world. The American office of the London house of Sheed Ward was opened in 1933. The best known Catholic authors of Europe and America are included in its lists. Because of his clear understanding of man and man’s problems, Mr. Sheed has presented to the public four invaluable books: Nullity of Marriage,” A Map of Life,” “Communism and Man,” and “Side- lights on the Catholic Revival.” In addition to his publishing and writing, Mr. Sheed is Master of the Westminster Catholic Evidence Guild. He trains the Guild speakers in London, and has addressed countless indoor and street- corner meetings in England and America. Mr. Sheed is by no means a stranger to West Chester for he has spoken here on three previous occasions: 1. In November of 1930, under the auspices of the Catholic Laymen’s Committee of Chester County, he lectured on “Religion on the Street Corner,” in St. Agnes School Hall. 2. Under the same auspices he lectured on December 4, 1941, in Philips Memorial Hall, State Teachers College, on “Who Is Jesus Christ?” 3. In May of 1942, he addressed the Holy Name Society of St. Agnes Church on the occasion of the annual Communion Breakfast, in the school lunch room. We, the Class of 1943, are most grateful to Mr. Sheed who has so honored us, and we take this occasion to thank him. 32 THE AGNITA GRADUATION THEMES Farewell! that word has broken hearts And blinded eyes with tears,- Farewell! one stays, and one departs,- Between them roll the years. No wonder why who say it think— Farewell! he may fare ill; No wonder that their spirits sink And all their hopes grow chill. Adieu! such is the word for us, Tis more than word—’tis prayer,- They do not part, who do part thus, For God is everywhere. 33 ABRAM J. RYAN THE AGNITA SALUTATORY By WILLIAM A. McCLAIN Welcome! A Happy Welcome! Reverend Fathers, dear Sisters, fond Parents, and kind Friends, these are the words with which my classmates would have me greet you today. Our welcome has a two- fold significance—we wish you to share our joy, and we wish to thank you for the countless benefits we have received from your hands. Of the innumerable favors you have bestowed upon us, we are especi- ally indebted to you who, during these days of hatred, greed, and fear, have offered us love, unselfishness, and hope. In you we enjoy a certain security, and because of you we have this respite from war— this foretaste of the peace we hope will be soon and lasting. Our first words of greeting are for you, dear Father Schuyler, who, by your wisdom, foresight, and pastoral vigilance, have provided us with an education that is lasting—an education that is a solid founda- tion for Christian living, regardless of the conditions of the time. To our other priests, who have so zealously directed us on the path of righteousness and ministered to our spiritual needs, we express our true appreciation and extend most cordial greetings. With a feeling of inexpressible gratitude we acknowledge the debt we owe to you, our teachers, the Sisters, Servants of the Im- maculate Heart of Mary, who have unselfishly given your lives that we might be instructed in the ways of charity and truth. Though all words of gratitude would be inadequate, we ask you to give ear to our heart-felt words of welcome. For you, dear parents, we have a very special welcome, and with it an acknowledgment of the priceless gift you have presented to us in giving us a Catholic high school education. May our welcome to you today be one of the many rewards God has promised to those who obey His Law. To our dear friends, whose interest and encouragement have assisted us greatly in reaching this particular goal, we have warmest words of welcome. With our greetings we make a plea—be to us always as you have hitherto been—a source of strength, a brilliant light shining through the blackest darkness. Again, one and all, we welcome you. Yes, come,- stay with us,- help us to live according to the standards you have set for us,- and, above all, pray for us; pray that we may follow you in leading others to Christ. 34 THE AGNITA RELIGION AND WAR (K. of C. Prize Essay) By MARGARET M. FRAME At twilight on Christmas Day, 1776, Washington led his pitifully small army across the bleak Delaware. Then, though their hands and feet were frostbitten, they marched onward to Trenton. There they pounced on the Hessians, who, in their celebration of the Feast Day, had relaxed their watchfulness, because they believed it impossible for Washington to make a crossing. Trenton fell. And a week later Cornwallis, thought he had conquered New Jersey, was routed at Princeton. That episode saved the American cause from collapse. Washington stands as an example of the generalship that wins. Our country now finds itself engaged in the greatest struggle of its existence. Are we to play the unpleasant role of Cornwallis? Are we to be the conquered? No! a thousand times, No! We are all mindful of the fact that this conflict is being fought by two distinct groups. Our opponents are fighting to get the kind of world they want—a slave world over which they shall be masters. They are fighting, not just for victory, but because they have a burning hunger for what they believe victory will bring them. We have the flame of faith in our fighting. We are fighting for our freedom, for our very lives, and we do not see the war simply as one of self-preservation. Lord Halifax emphasizes these facts by this statement: Although we are determined to rid Europe of Hitler and all his works, we are not so foolish as to suppose that the world after the war will be the same world as it was before. We have all learned much in a hard and bitter school. What we have learned together has brought us a new humility. We acknowledge that in the past we toler- ated much of which we are now ashamed. We are resolved never again to lose that new sense of values which we have won through the war. We shall uphold these at whatever cost, so that we may build a future in which they shall rise and rule the lives of men.” Does not this compulsion drive us on? I believe it does,- I believe it will drive us on to victory. The American people must begin, sometime, to think of the problem of peace. From the last war we have learned that military victory alone will not give us peace. Also, by the treaty or agreements of the last war we secured neither peace, freedom, nor prosperity. For a while we were foolish enough to think we were all free from the destruction of war,- but we found out, too late, that our old foundations of peace were not to be permanent. What was left out? What es- sential quality was missing? Our answer is—God and religion. 35 THE AGNITA We know God hates anything sinful, but is this war we are fighting sinful? Are we fighting just for gain, territory, praise? No, we are fighting a righteous war, a war to defend our rights against aggression. But even though this is a just conflict, some wish to know why God doesn’t stop such destruction and turmoil. To stop this war would be to destroy human freedom. God could have made this world without freedom,- but no, He wished men to be free to live their own lives and to fight their own battles. It is God’s plan that we keep the freedom He gave us. The horrible conditions that prevail over the world to- day are only the result of man’s misuse of this freedom. We say we are fighting for freedom. Then why do we ask God to destroy it? This is just what we do when we ask Him to stop this war. We also say we are fighting to destroy dictators. Then why do we ask God to become a dictator? We should know now that it is unfair to ask God to stop this war. It would not be unfair, but on the contrary, most proper to pray to God for help and guidance, and to ask Him to have pity on all of us and especially on those who are fighting and dying for us and for our freedom. But the prayer of some is useless, for it is only lip service, not a sincere raising of the mind and heart to God. Prayer without devotion is like a plant without water—a man without a heart—just plain useless. But prayer said with real devotion and interest can and will bring good results. We all know that love, honor, and glory are due God and all of these are expressed in an ardent prayer. Let this proverb direct our thoughts on prayer: Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God, the things that are God’s.’’ The things which we are to render to God are not fully acceptable to Him except through prayer, a weapon of immeasurable power. Nations, as well as men, can be governed by force or by persua- sion. Persuasion is the American method, and is the application of the Catholic doctrine of free-will to the political process. The Church employs this democratic process and seeks the sanctification of men and the salvation of society by persuasion and prayer. Therefore, its fundamental field of operation is in the minds and souls of men. The Church knows that you cannot use the power of politics to force men into the kingdom of heaven. The Church knows that you can destroy the material part of man with bullets and bayonets, but not the spiritual part, not the free-will God gave each one of us. The Church knows that you can fight ideals with ideals, evil principles with prayer. And to win this fight the Church realizes it must be in and of this world. President Roosevelt affirmed all this in a letter to Archbiship Mooney, when he stated: We shall win this war, and in victory we shall seek not vengeance but the establishment of an international order in which the spirit of Christ shall rule the hearts of men and nations.’’ 36 THE AGNITA VALEDICTORY By MARY F. TAVANI Victory is the watchword of every man, woman, and child of America. To serve one’s country is heartening to all who cherish democracy. No matter how great or small the sacrifices, no matter what changes are required in social, financial, political, economic, or educational institutions, winning the war and securing peace come first in the hearts and minds of the American people. Pearl Harbor has caused many changes in America, and the school participates in these changes. The chief influence of the war on elementary education is to guard the mental and physical health and the well-being of children of elementary school age. In the secondary schools, the war has caused many curriculum changes. The urgent need for specialized training of manpower for our armed forces and wartime industry has brought new demands on the youth of today. Boys and girls are aware of the fact that the knowledge of mathe- matics and science is essential in the various branches of our armed forces, and they are eager to master these studies. With American troops scattered all over the globe, great emphasis is placed on the knowledge of foreign languages. Our schools are prepared to meet this demand also. Yes, our schools stand ready to serve and do whatever they can to strengthen America on the home front. The present and the future call for an education that is realistic, vital and comprehensive,- one that is an integral part of the life of the community, and one that meets the needs of the individual and of society. The program of National Defense calls for men and women who are mentally fit to endure, whether in field, factory, office, home or armed forces. Education makes a great contribution to this much needed fitness. Although all required changes be made, the structure of the Christian education remains the same, for good teaching in its truest sense is preparing man to live a purposeful life here on earth and then to enjoy eternal life in heaven. We, the Class of 1943, are especially grateful to our parents for training us in habits of discipline at home and for sending us to a Catholic school where patriotism and religion have been so inter- woven that each serves to make the other more effective. Our patriot- ism, as well as our religion, is not a wartime sentiment, but an essential part of our educational structure. 37 THE AGNITA To the Sisters, whose encouragement, patience, guidance, and teaching have made our program of education one of immeasurable worth, we bid farewell with a promise that there will be no farewell to the practicing of the Christian principles they have inculcated. Words are not sufficiently adequate to express our gratitude to our pastor, Father Schuyler, whose leadership and guidance have been in harmony with the views of Pope Pius XI, who in his Christian Education of Youth’’ very definitely states: Christian education takes in the whole aggregate of human life, physical and spiritual, intellectual and moral, individual, domestic, and social, not with a view of reducing it in any way, but in order to elevate, regulate, and perfect it, in accordance with the example and teaching of Christ. “Hence, the true Christian, the product of Christian education, is the supernatural man who thinks, judges, and acts constantly in accordance with right reason, illumined by the supernatural light of the example and teaching of Christ; in other words, to use the current term, the true and finished man of character.’’ While complying with the requirements of the times, we are stirred with a renewed confidence, the strength of which is based on the knowledge that we have been supplied with the best life-lasting munition that can be obtained—a Catholic high school education. Because of this, we shall do more effectively the good things that are to be done, we shall adjust ourselves where adjustments are to be made, and we hope to share in strengthening the lines of our democracy, for we believe wholeheartedly in the cause for which we stand. Today, we say a fond farewell to our dear Alma Mater. We leave her portals, but she will never leave the most cherished place in our memories, for it was here, within her walls, that we learned the true meaning of justice, charity, peace, and democracy. We are proud to leave our classrooms, and go forth, equipped to protect our American way of life and to participate in the struggle for our nation’s goal—Victory! 38 THE AGNITA OUR LADY OF VICTORY By MARIE A. TESTA Our Lady is everywhere invoked under the title of Our Lady of Victory. Of old, when the Moslems lingered outside the gates of Vienna and threatened to destroy the imperial city, the Church ordered the faithful to pray the rosary for deliverance from domination by the Turks. Victory followed with a decisive defeat for the Mohammedans. The Turkish fleet was also overpowered. This is only one of the many cases in which Mary was a most powerful mediatrix. In choosing Our Lady for our patroness, we beg her to obtain for us many types of victory. We ask her to help the just to gain victory in this dreadful crisis so that through her intercession Our Heavenly Father will grant us a just and lasting peace. Yet, there is another kind of victory for which we are seeking, and it is this one in particular about which we are, in a way, more personally concerned. It is the one upon which our immortal life depends,- namely, that Our Blessed Lady will teach us to be victorious over the passions and trials of daily life. At the time of Mary’s birth the whole world was enveloped in a spirit of darkness,- the heathen nations were rooted in vice and pride. With Mary came light that would bring forth the Redeemer. Although triumphant in crushing the head of the serpent, the Mother of God endured many sorrows and privations while here on earth. And thine own soul a sword shall pierce,-’—at these words Mary’s joy was changed to sorrow, for her own Son was a sign that would be contradicted. Yet, never did Mary murmur or yield to dis- couragement—not when she had to flee into Egypt, not when she suffered the loss of her Son for three days, not even when she stood at the foot of the Cross on Calvary. How do we imitate Mary? A small interior trial, a single afflic- tion, the slightest suffering is sufficient to dishearten us, although these are the chief battles of life in which we should strive to be victorious. Our model and Mother recalled the words, Whom the Lord loveth He chastiseth, and in the midst of her grief she began to behold the fruit of Christ’s death, and thus she was comforted. As Mary is the key to a holy and happy life, we can readily see that she is greatly needed in this our day, when scientific inventions and discoveries are hailed as man’s greatest achievements, when that person is considered a man who is materialistic rather than spiritual, when man has forgot the Source of creation and has, as a result, wrought upon himself a most dreadful calamity. While our sins merit the penalty of social disturbances, God, through the intercession of Mary, will season His Justice with Mercy and bless us with Peace and Victory. Thus with the confidence that a child has in its mother, let us unite in our plea, Our Lady of Victory, pray for us. 39 THE AGNITA FOR GOD AND COUNTRY By MARY F. TAVANI Day after day, the newspapers relate stories of the magnificent physical courage shown by the men in our armed forces. They are fighting for the rights which our Constitution guarantees—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Many more are sacrificing their lives for the freedom that God desires us to possess. God created us as free men and it is His will that we remain free. The majority of men in our fighting forces realize that they are fighting for God as well as for Country—they realize that God is their Supreme Ruler and Leader, and that their Country is one of God’s gifts to them. We cannot but admire them for their beautiful Christian patriotism. We are indebted to God and Country for our very life, conserva- tion, and protection. St. Thomas Aquinas, prince of theologians, explains the necessity and reasonableness of patriotism in his words: Men are made debtors of others in different ways according to their different excellence, and the different gifts received from them. In both re- spects God holds the highest place. He is most excellent, and is the first principle of our being and governance. Secondarily, however, the prin- ciples of our being and education are our parents and country, from whom and in which we have been given our birth and nurture. Where- fore, just as it pertains to religion to give worship to God, it pertains to piety; in an inferior degree, to give honor to one’s parents and one’s country.” Therefore, our Country constitutes a second principle of life. Love of Country is not charity and justice obvious only in war time, but a virtue which perfects us in our everyday relations with our Country. It is so intimately connected with God that we cannot love God and not love our Country. Christ Himself wept when He thought of the destruction of Jerusalem,- Joan of Arc has won undying fame for her love for God and for France. Neither is love of Country a hatred for the foreigner. The inevita- ble results of hatred are clearly stressed by Pope Pious XI, who asserts that it is impossible for peace to reign among states if a violent nation- alism usurps the place of true and national patriotism. We, the Class of 1943, ask God’s assistance in making the motto, For God and Country,” our own. Both girls and boys will be called upon to take an active part in the present day crisis, and this motto should help us to keep pure and worthy motives in our minds and hearts. The present needs of our Country demand the best in us, and it is our duty to respond by having a love for Country, like that of the great saints, based upon love for God. When peace is restored and the normal order is resumed, our motto will still be a most appropriate one. In time of war, in time of peace, in time of joy or in time of sorrow, let us dedicate ourselves to Our God and Country!” 40 THE AGNITA THE PASSION PLAY The Son of God upon the cross hangs dead. The trees sway black against the riven sky,- The lightnings crown His brow. And it is I From whom the shuddering earth recoils in dread; I who wove thorns about that drooping head, Who pierced those shattered hands and set on high The darkling cross; who stood and watched Him die, And heard Him groan, It is consummated!’’ Finished, O Lord, the love, the treachery. Where should the traitor turn but to that tree More bitter than the cross? The dead lips part; Beneath the thorns, the blood-dimmed eyes burn deep: For sin there is no anodyne of sleep,- Find thou thy peace within my broken heart.” 41 ELEANOR DOWNING THE CHOIR Upper left—Michael, the Archangel. Center—Adam and Eve. Upper right— Lower left—The Roman Soldiers. Lower right—ChronisLa. -The High Pri es s. Upper left—Joseph of Arimotheo. Upper right—Longinus. ower left—Mary of Cleophas. Upper center—Pilate.. Center—Mary Magdalene. Lower center—Herod. Lower right—Nicodemus. Upper left—Peter and John. Center—Mary. Upper right—Veronica and Esther. Lower left—Messengers. Lower right—Procula and Pilate. THE AGNITA UNTO US A SON IS GIVEN By JANE K. SHELLER and DORA R. GAS PAR I When God drove Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden, He promised the world a Redeemer. The fulfillment of that promise is the theme of the play presented by the Class of 1943, the title of which is Unto Us a Son Is Given”. The first act takes us back to the scene outside the Garden. Adam and Eve, sad and distressed, recall their sin committed in the Garden. Soon after, while asleep, Eve is awakened by a dream in which she sees clearly sin and the horrible punishment of sin. However, in the dark picture before her eyes, there is a bright ray of hope—she sees a woman, her daughter, who shrank not in fear, but with a courage born of God she raised her foot and bruised the head of the serpent into the dust; and in her arms she bore a Babe.” Adam recognizes in the Babe the means of man’s Redemption, and is thus comforted. Sin exacts its punishment when Adam and Eve look upon death, the bitter fruit of their sin, which was the result of the jealousy Cain had for his brother, Abel. The second act takes us to the time of Christ. In the house of Nicodemus are Esther and Veronica, who rejoice because of Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. They are joined by Nicodemus and Mary Magdalene, who cries out: And the whole world will follow Him.” But the joy and happiness of Christ’s friends is short lived, for the priests and elders stir up hatred among the people who clamor for His life. Joseph of Arimathea, summoned by Nicodemus, hears that the Master has been taken and hurries off to intercede with Pilate. Peter, covered with shame and confusion, admits having denied his Master. The grief-torn Magdalene rebukes Peter and Nicodemus for their failure to protect Christ, but later she understands that Christ has no need for any of them, that He goes to death His own appointed way. As Mary enters the house all try to comfort her. In the third act, the scene of which is outside the Judgment Hall, we hear Joseph pleading with Pilate. Pilate might have granted Joseph’s request had not the priests and elders insisted upon Christ’s death. Though Pilate knows Jesus is innocent, he, in his weakness, permits Him to be taken to Calvary to be crucified. During this time Mary is at the house of Nicodemus where her friends respect and share her grief. They wish to inform her of her Son’s sufferings, but Joseph assures them: There is no need. She knows all—His agony in the Garden, the blows and buffetings, the scourge, the crowning, and the Cross.” As Christ approaches on His way to Calvary, Mary, accompanied by Mary of Cleophas, Mary 46 THE AGNITA Magdalene, and John, goes out to meet Him. Veronica, overwhelmed with sorrow, runs out to wipe Christ’s face. She is rewarded by His leaving the imprint of His countenance on her veil. To Pilate s surprise, Herod visits him. While he is musing over the strangeness of the events of the day, Procula, his wife, comes to plead with him so that he will have nothing to do with Jesus, the Preacher, and Teacher. She relates a dream in which she saw Pilate having slain Life. Pilate, pondering over the words of Procula, is interrupted by Joseph, Mary Magdelene, and Nicodemus, who ask for the body of Christ for burial. Their request is granted. A tableau, in which Mary, surrounded by Christ's faithful friends, holds her Son in her arms, brings the play to a close. Thus Christ fulfilled the promise of His Father by coming into the world and dying on the Cross to open for us, the children of Eve, the Gates of Paradise. Our program was made more attractive by the appropriate selec- tions rendered by the orchestra, and by the hymn, “Jerusalem,” which was sung by the senior girls. We are grateful to Father Schuyler, who sacrificed so much of his precious time in coaching us, and we wish to assure him that his valuable time has not been spent in vain—he has given us something that will always be a source of pleasant memories. ANTICIPATION Deep in my heart there’s a yearning To journey to the moon someday; And day by day the yearning avers: I II get there, whatever the way. I want to see the sparkling light That guards the world in slumber, The light that lulls to peaceful sleep The babes—so great in number. And if someday, I find the way, In its company I shall linger,- I II look for eyes, and mouth, and nose; Yes, and even a finger. I’ll thank that creature in the moon For the sweet gifts without number, For the joy he sheds on earth below To you and me while we slumber. FLORENCE M. SHELLER 47 THE AGNITA DESIRES While in the midst of my slumber, I dreamed I was afire,- Then suddenly I wakened To see my dream expire. I never want to dream such things— To see so much of woe— But to dream of the beautiful, Of love and life aglow. I want to do my part each day,- And this I do confess, I want to give the things of life The love that I possess. FLORENCE M. SHELLER GOD'S GRACE A pearl, Oh, to have it! It is my own, but then How many times do I lose it By sin! MARIE A. TESTA HER WISH Alone! How quiet it is Now that you have left me. But fight and pray with all your strength, My son. MARGARET M. FRAME 48 THE AGNITA VICTORY THEMES AND RHYMES A few can touch the magic string, And noisy Fame is proud to win them:— Alas, for those who never sing, But die with all their music in them! OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES 49 THE AGNITA A COMPLETE LIFE By ROSALIND H. SWORDS Kneeling silently, surrounded by glowing faces, I gaze with intent devotion at the magnificent spectacle before my eyes. It is the repetition of the drama of Calvary by a representative of our Almighty Father. I become enraptured by this unearthly ceremony every time I assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. During the cere- mony, so dear to the heart of every Catholic, we see the Son of God performing the work of His Father in teaching, redeeming, and beck- oning us to follow Him. Now, as I hear the Consecration bell ring, I know why we have been given bodies in which to live, breathe, and act. We have been given every means to adore God, to love fdim, and to perform our life s duties. Yes, as I gaze upon the Spotless Host and strike my breast while I say, My Lord and my God, I know why man has troubles, joys, and happinesses. For was it not God who gave His life that we might live and cheish the things of His creation? We have been given life that we might live it in all its completeness—that we might enjoy its pleasures and that we might be privileged to gain merit by enduring its sorrows. As I walk to my God with a prayer begging forgiveness on my lips, I remember our men who go into battle with their prayer begging God for protection while they fight for their God and their country. They beg Him also to make their souls His home, and to enkindle within these souls the strength that the ever-burning and life-giving fire will enable them fearlessly to go into battle, and thus keep Old Glory” waving high over their heads and God in the hearts of men and on His humble altar throne. When the representative of God washes Lis hands, I am reminded of the purity and cleanliness which should characterize the soul which is the life of the body. How do we protect purity? Do we keep our souls free from sin by fulfilling God’s law? Because of the weakness of our human nature, our answer is not always in the affirma- tive. Nevertheless, by frequent confession, communion, and prayer, we can cleanse and beautify our souls and make them the home of God. The Dominus vobiscum” of our spiritual father is a plea that as we leave the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass God will be with us. How comforting are these words! How strengthening, now! These words give our life and liberty a security that is not given by physical strength nor by material resources. With an all-sustaining strength, we, as true Americans, should open the avenues of complete living to all peoples, and thus make all lands forever the home of God-conscious people, and the land of true life. 50 THE AGNITA AMERICAN LIBERTY By ANNE M. DONOVAN In his state of original justice, man possessed immortality of the body and infused knowledge. As these gifts were God-given, God alone could take them away. When man sinned, he lost many of the special privileges that had been granted to him,- nevertheless, he was permitted to retain his life, his free-will, and his right to search for happiness. From the fall of man until today, man has appreciated these inborn rights,- and from that day until today, history gives proof that man will risk all—even his mortal life—to retain his freedom and his right to seek happiness. The insatiable love for liberty encouraged the early settlers of America to stake all to obtain it. It was the love for liberty that prompted Thomas Jefferson to express his own sentiments and those of the men of his time in the words: All men are created equal; they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. To secure these rights governments are instituted among men, deriving their just power from the consent of the governed. These words are lasting because they voice the feeling of every human heart. Liberty is one of the many privileges that have made America great. It is that precious liberty which allows us to practice our religion, and to attend the school of our choice. It is that liberty which affords the child the opportunity to enjoy the pleasures and games of youth; it is that liberty which grants the adult the choice of career or profession. American liberty gives to every citizen who is twenty-one years of age or over the right to vote—to select the leaders of our country. To live peacefully with peoples of all nations and creeds is to know true liberty. People from all corners of the globe have flocked to our land of the free. Besides settling in America, these people have contributed to make America great. In art, music, medicine, science, and literature, they have given their utmost to enhance American greatness. They are grateful to America because she trusts them, and because she has given them the right to exercise their liberty. Today, with war traversing all parts of the world, American liberty is seen in all its luster, and that luster illumines the name of Abraham Lincoln, that great promoter of freedom and equality, who declared: Our reliance is in the love of liberty which God has planted in us. Our defense is in the spirit which prizes liberty as the heritage of all men, in all lands, everywhere.” It is in this selfsame spirit that we keep liberty and share it with others. Thus our America will always be great, for it stands for liberty, and the desire for liberty is a quality that will never die in the hearts of men. 51 THE AGNITA HAPPINESS WITHOUT BLEMISH By FLORENCE M. SHELLER A cozy home, wealth, talents, health, vigor, laughter, gayety, and security,—what more could a person ask for? Still, as I sat there pondering over my fortune, I was not content. Something was puzzling me, but I could not determine what it was. Something I desired was not within my grasp. I became interested in the unknown.” Suddenly my thoughts transported me to a new world. What a strange place! Instead of the plains and valleys I knew so well, there were steps, very great steps. What was at the top? Somehow, I knew my destination to be there, so I decided to mount them. On the first flight, I saw thousands of infants with their chubby, smiling faces. Why were they smiling? They were not able to distinguish joy from sorrow. Curiosity would not allow me to linger, so I continued to mount the steps. When I reached the second flight, I saw children studying, working, and playing. Unexpectedly a tear came from my eye. How happy I was in my childhood! The children grinned at me—I had to hasten away. On and on I went until I stumbled over another step. The ap- proaching view presented many stores, factories, offices, and other places where everyone was working. There wasn’t an idler in the entire group. Some faces were radiantly pleasant; others were more serious and calm. Some were laughing so heartily that they frightened me. Out of breath, I climbed to the next step. When would I reach the top? On the last reached step were beautiful churches. I entered one to see if it differed from those on earth. What beautiful music and singing! What an unusual expression on the faces of those attending Mass! Although the church differed in no way from those on earth, for the first time in my life I realized how beautiful is the Mass. I could not account for the fact that the ceremonies of the Church, and especially the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, did not mean so much to me before. Bewildered though I was, I decided to continue climbing the mysterious steps. Much to my surprise, I was unable to go on. Some invisible force was holding me back. To my amazement, my puzzling problem was solved. The proverb, Seek and you shall find,” was my guide. It was happiness I was pursuing. My mind’s journey brought home to me a truth I hope I shall never forget—happiness is to be found in the places and in the people of my every day life. 52 THE AGNITA Hereafter, I shall seek happiness, the light that dispells the darkness, in doing each day s duty as I see it, in rendering loyal serv- ice to my country, and, above all, in giving worthy adoration to my God. Although I know that happiness comes from all that is fine and good, from St. Augustine s words: My soul was made for Thee, O Lord, and it cannot rest until it rests in Thee,” I know as well that full and complete happiness will not be attained while on this earth. However, I shall use the time, health, and all advantages that God has given me with the knowledge that through these I can reach the top step where earthly happiness will be replaced by that soul- satisfying happiness—Heaven and the Beatific Vision. A GREAT AMERICAN By MARGARET M. FRAME I have always wished to see it—the most sacred relic of American History. Friends have told me how majestically it hangs from its beam of solid black walnut—its great tongue silent. I think we should feel proud of Independence Hall, in Philadelphia for here the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed, here the Constitution of the United States was signed, and here the Liberty Bell, the symbol of what makes worthwhile all our sacrifices, stands. On its broad rim are blazoned the thrilling words: Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof.” This verse from the twenty-fifth chapter of the book of Leviticus, an inspiration as well as a command, was selected by Isaac Norris, Speaker of the Assembly of the Colony of Pennsylvania, who fought for American liberties, but did not live to hear the bell articulate the words he chose for it. When America was young, the bell was sounded on every note- worthy occasion. At times the neighbors complained of the tumult, but the bell continued to announce events of joy and of sorrow. It spoke to the people and for the people. Its single tone expressed unison. It was the great voice of the people which could not be silenced by any one. It rang in 1757, when Benjamin Franklin went to England; again in 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was accepted. It bellowed the election of Thomas Jefferson, and it mourned the death of Washington, Hamilton, and Lafayette; and, while tolling the death of Chief Justice John Marshall, it cracked—never to be heard again. But in its silence it has been more distinctly heard. The Liberty Bell is a hero that, like other heroes, was born, lived, retreated, ad- vanced, sang, shouted, fought, and was wounded. It is an American,- a great American like Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and so many thousands whose every heart throb is in unison with that of America. It is the one bell of which we can be justly proud; it is the bell for which the whole world is listening,- it is our own Bell of Liberty. 53 THE AGNITA THE AMERICAN WAY By FLORENCE M. SHELLER How good it is to be an American—to live in a country where we can be “free”! I’m neither implying nor suggesting that we do as we please, because a loyal American, who lives up to the principles of our democracy, will do only that which is correct. Amid life’s little struggles, we may proudly boast that with con- fidence in our government we can overcome our difficulties. Our government stands for freedom—a right that many nations do not possess. God is our first Law-Maker. With His inspiration we accept only those laws that justify our demands for proper living, and never shall we accept a law contrary to the law of God. A characteristic of the American people is the remarkable spirit of co-operation cultivated among neighbors. We get a thrill of living for life’s sake—not putting temporary powers before innate qualities. When ours is a day of hardship ,we have our neighbor to whom we may turn,- when our neighbor is in need of help, he depends upon us. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, is our policy— and one worthy of imitation. It is the opinion of some who do not know us that the American people are weak, lacking in perseverance and in the power of endur- ance. Need we enumerate the numbers who have lived for America and died for her? It is the spirit of self-sacrifice that has implanted and strengthened the characteristic co-operation of which America is so justly boastful. Our forefathers fought for the principles of democracy which we now enjoy and cherish. Could weakness purchase such priceless gifts? True, to maintain order, we do not encourage the brutal measures that are found in some countries. Were violence and brutality to become a part of our government, it would cease to be the democratic government which is dear to each and every one of us. We are a happy, normal people who adjust ourselves to business and pleasure, and worship God according to our religious belief. If our democracy is threatened, if the havoc of war endangers our land, we summon a strength that is entirely unknown to the weak. It is a strength that comes through confidence in God—in God, the Author of righteousness. As time speeds by and the older people go to their eternal reward, the younger generation carries on the work of its forefathers, and thus the spirit of democracy becomes more deeply rooted in America. This is the American way,- may it last forever! 54 THE AGNITA V-MAIL By CARMELA T. Di SANTI Mail! Mail! More mail! To help comply with the wishes of his fighting nephews, Uncle Sam has established a new way of trans- porting mail, and that way—although in its infancy—is growing rapidly and winning the admiration of ell the members of Uncle Sam's big family. The mail transported by the new method is known as V-mail. The system was adopted in June, 1942. Its purpose is to facilitate the transmission of letters to and from those in the Armed Forces. The size and the weight of the letters are reduced so that they may be transported more readily and in a greater number at a single shipping. At present the system is solely for the use of those who are serving in the Armed Forces on distant shores. V-mail service is based upon the use of a special standard V-mail letter sheet, which is a combination of letter paper and envelope. On this paper messages may be written on only one side. It is preferred that V-mail letters be typewritten; when hand written, they should be legible and in normal sized writing. No enclosures are permitted. The V-mail letters are numbered consecutively and tied into bundles of approximately five hundred each. The bundles are delivered to a photo-finishing company. A memorandum receipt, which is to be re- tained until the letters have been filmed and returned, is taken. The letters are then mailed to one of the two V-mail stations, New York and San Francisco, where they are opened by a machine designed especially for that purpose, inspected by a censor, and photographed to one-sixteenth of their original size. Thirty-eight V-mail letters are equivalent to one pound of common stationery. At the present time, when shipping facilities and space on ships and planes are such vital factors in winning the war, this difference in size and weight increases in importance. We do not hesitate to believe that, although V-mail has been established for communication during this crisis, it will remain a perma- nent establishment of our mail system because of its many advantages. It will help considerably in the conservation of space that bulky letters require, and it will reduce the cost of air mail letters. What does the future hold in store for V-mail? Many predictions can be made, but we may be assured that when this world returns to some degree of normalcy untold possibilities of V-mail will be develop- ed to serve the people of the world and to bind them into a closer unity. While looking to the future and while hoping for great progress in that future, let us remember that mail is one of the best morale builders for those in the Armed Forces. With this in mind, let us co-operate with Uncle Sam and satisfy the plea, Mail! Mail! More mail! 55 THE AGNITA FROM EARTH TO HEAVEN By ROSALIND H. SWORDS “Lord, see my children, So precious and small; Help me to guide them, Lest they should fall.” J. Francis Zabel. In the above lines is beautifully expressed the true significance of a Mother’s love. Mary is asking her Son, the Lord on High, to see her children as she sees them—so priceless, yet so timid; so strong, yet so weak; so eager for peace, yet in a world of continuous strife and combat. “Help me to guide them,” she pleads, so that when they come to the crossroads of life they may be inspired by clean thoughts and clear thinking. Let them see the path of glory and reward and not that of disappointment and punishment is petitioned in “Lest they should fall. In her petitions, Mary encourages and teaches us to pray. Thus strengthened by prayer, we, the children of our heavenly Mother, are prepared to continue our struggle in all types of battle, not only with material weapons, but with the spiritual ones also. Against all enemies we shall build a strong fortress with a well-known and powerful prayer, the Rosary. As we go from bead to bead, each of which represents an “Ave,” we meditate on the life of Christ and that of His dear Mother. After being reminded that their joys were replaced by sor- rows and that their sorrows were followed by glories, we are better prepared to put aside our joys, to accept our sorrows, and to hope for a glorious reward. Since prayer leads to victory over Satan and all the advocates of Satan, by constant and fervent prayer, we can ensure a speedy and efficacious victory for all the fighting men. With renewed zeal and fervor, let us pray to Our Lady of Victory and ask her to continue to pray for us and to guide and inspire our fighting forces. May she envelop us all in a cloud of purity, and make firm our trust in God, Our Father, and make secure the God-given gift of internal peace. Thus, we on the home front and those on the battle front shall find our sentiments expressed in the words of Joyce Klimer, World War hero and poet, who wrote: “There is one harp that any hand can play, And from its strings what harmonies arise! There is one song that any mouth can say— A song that lingers when all singing dies. When on their beads our Mother’s children pray, Immortal music charms the grateful skies! 56 THE AGNITA CATHOLICITY AND CITIZENSHIP By MARIE A. TESTA Be a good Catholic and you can’t help being a good American. Thus in World War II, one of America’s great heroes spoke words of advice to his young son. In doing so, the late Lieutenant Shea gave counsel, not only to a small boy, but to all of us. The annals of history are testimony for the proven truth that a religious man, a man who fears God and walks in the way of the Lord, cannot but be a loyal and devoted citizen of his own country. Genuine patriotism, as a rule, does not exist without education. An ignorant people very seldom makes a truly patriotic people. How- ever, if moral force is absent, education is useless and very often injurious. In the Catholic way, the true way of life, religion and educa- tion go hand in hand. The system of education maintained and sup- ported by the Church aims to serve first God, then country. The neces- sity of such an education is evident. If children are trained to be truly patriotic Christians, they will not hesitate to give their all for their God, for their homes, and for their country. It is indeed front-line duty to mold the minds and hearts of young Americans, who must first be taught how to think and act. Upon the contingent of teachers depends the success or failure of our young Americans,—of our future America. The principles instilled by teachers are of vital importance in our pattern for Victory. Our well instructed Americans take up arms against the foe for the sake of justice. They have been taught true values, the worth of freedom and equality, and the nobility of democracy. They are willing to defend our glorious flag on land, and sea, and in the air. To us who have been reared in a tradition of Christianity, the systems adopted by some European countries are incomprehensible. We cannot understand the theory which idealizes the man-made state and holds it superior to God who is the source of all authority. Faith and hope in God are followed, not only by a love for God, but by a love for our fellow-men which results in a social frame of mind that makes for highest citizenship. When Pearl Harbor sounded the death knell for the conflicting theories and beliefs that were dividing our country, there became evident a new and strong unity which was encircling the whole nation. Frivolity and artificiality suddenly disappeared. Every man wanted to go to the battle front; each woman wanted to be of assistance. The progress of war industries became the most essential problem. The United States was at war! With this sudden change that is still sweeping over our country, one notices another change—a spiritual change. Men who scoffed 57 THE AGNITA now pray,- the indifferent now believe and hope. America is marching on to a future of promise under the starry banner and the redeeming wood. The Cross and the Flag are symbols dear to all Catholic Amer- icans. May the day be not far distant when they shall be dear to all Americans and to all men of all nations! IN THE TWENTIETH CENTURY IT IS ALIVE By MARY A. MATTIA and ELIZABETH M. SCHENKER Leslie was shot down a quarter of a mile off shore. He leaped from his flaming plane and floated for six hours until dark, when he swam to a beach where he was almost discovered by two Japs. Stealthily, he made his way to a mountain top, from whose peak he saw Henderson Field and the battle of October 5th, in which the Japs lost seven transports. Later, he modestly related to his comrades: Boy, I led a cheering section there all by myself. I decided to work my way towards the sea with the hope of being able to swim to one of our destroyers. I reached a destroyer, but it belonged to the Japs. Disappointment and exhaustion left me with little pep, but, somehow, I succeeded in reaching the shore.” Hiding near the shore for some days, Leslie finally took a dugout canoe from under the very nose of a Jap and paddled by night along the coast. At last a dive bomber spied him and picked him up. The next day, Leslie was back in his plane and fighting against the Japs. Yes, Leslie is a hero, and there are thousands like him. Everyday in our newspapers, magazines, and moving pictures we read about and see depicted on the screen the gallant deeds of our present-day heroes. True, they do not ride away on prancing steeds, neither do they return with the weapons of the conquered to prove their vic- tory, nor do they wear a blazoned sword to remind themselves and others of their achievements,- but valor, courage, endurance, love for righteousness, and true nobility are theirs and their love for these is put to the test in the warfare of today as never before. Most of these boys have been accustomed to comforts of all kinds, and yet they have given up the luxuries of home life for the hardships of war. Their cause is for justice, charity, and peace. What could be more noble? Their very actions refute the opinion of the skeptic when he says that chivalry is dead. Although the present generation has been reared in a grandeur and luxury unknown to the knights of old, it is not weak, nor is its regard for high ideals less force- ful. The men of this generation who are fighting to keep America free and to retain the esteem each true American has for his fellow- man bring to us the actual, living, and genuine touch of American chivalry. 58 THE AGNITA VICTORY RHYMES By FLORENCE M. SHELLER As I sit and ponder o’er Our class in a year or more, I ask, Shall sweet peace or fierce war Be knocking at freedom’s door? Army, Navy, Marines, Air Corps, WAVES and WAACS and nurses galore! Shall we keep pace with the times, And live up to our Victory Rhymes? Little Johnnie Bugler, come blow your horn, The soldiers are asleep so early in the morn. But where are the boys we thought were asleep? They’re already up and out in their jeep. Shall we get up late and then have our fun, While they realize there is a war to be won? Chug-a-chug-chug, Some men in a tug,— Who do you think they be? The Guards and the Navy, The Marines and the Army, To keep our America free! Dear Uncle Sam is a busy old man, And a busy old man is he. He calls for his bombs, And he calls for his planes, And he calls for his pilots free. Every fine pilot has a fine plane, And a very fine plane has he. Let us soar! Let us soar! says the Air Corps. Oh, there is none so rare as can compare With Uncle Sam and his pilots free. Mary, Mary, quite contrary, How your food store does grow! Because those like you are hoarding, Rationing must be so. There was a crooked man, who went a crooked way, He met a crooked crowd, where treason was in sway, He had information—the F.B.I. came his way, So now that crooked man has not a word to say. 59 THE AGNITA Little Jack Horner, Sat in a corner Sulking—and he so tough. He wanted to fight, But it wouldn’t be right, For he was not old enough. A dillar, a dollar, a victory scholar, What makes you be so smart? You do twelve lessons, In just two sessions, And are really doing your part. Guns, weapons, have you any more? We must have them to win the war. Oh, please don’t say you do not care, For all of us must do our share. Little Miss Bryan, Was cryin’ For the pleasures of which she’s fond; But her eyes became brighter— She d be a fighter, And hurry to buy a war bond! Humpty Dumpty fought a great war,- Humpty Dumpty would be no more, Had not the Marines on sea and on land Taken the situation well in hand. Army, Navy, and all your fans, Just watch our scrap pile grow! With pipes and stoves and pots and pans And boilers piled row upon row. Little Bo Peep does raise more sheep, She’s speeding up production,- But even so, she s just as neat, While keeping us from destruction. 60 THE AGNITA FAREWELL SONG (Army Air Corps) Chorus Off we go from our cherished Alma Mater dear on to our goal, Into the world where the clear blue skies are darkened now and thunders roll. Forth we march, bearing our standard proudly, while the guns and cannons roar. St. Agnes dear, we shall always cheer— True to the cause and mem’ries of yore. Raise a song to the throng of teachers, kind and gentle of our care,- And again to the men who walk with Christ and in His mission share. May years to come hold joys untold for you. We sing farewell to you, our colors, white and blue. A song, here’s a song, forever strong— St. Agnes, Farewell! 61 FLORENCE M. SHELLER MARIE A. TESTA THE AGNITA THE VICTORY CORPS “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.” During this time of world-wide conflict, every American, worthy of the name, considers it his duty to do his utmost to keep the Flag—- the symbol of liberty and justice, the symbol of our united nation—well elevated above our land and deeply rooted in the hearts of our people. In their desire to render a fitting contribution, the boys and girls of school age were greatly aided by the establishment of the High School Victory Corps, which emphasizes the necessity of a thorough mastery of fundamental subjects, special studies, and physical training. Its chief aim is to prepare the youth to serve more effectively after graduation. In the classroom fundamental and special studies have been thoroughly stressed. Military drill has been offered to the boys of West Chester through the American Legion, the military drillmasters being members of the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, commanded by Lieut. George M. Benner. The boys are glad to have an opportunity to learn the elements of military training and are most grateful to all those who have shared in giving them a better knowledge of what will be expected of them in the near future, at which time they hope to prove that the time so generously given them by their instructors has not been wasted. Each boy of the Victory Corps finds satisfaction in knowing that, in his own small way, he is participating in a great cause—he is one of the many who are loyal to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands.” JOSEPH B. McGROGAN HERMAN T. TAVANI OLD GLORY Thank God For Old Glory! Long may her beauty wave On land and sea, mid sun and cloud, Our Flag. MARGARET M. FRAME 62 THE VICTORY CORPS THE AGNITA AIR-RAID WARDENS Br-r-r-r-rr! The newly installed air-raid signal is heard, and the entire student body of St. Agnes School changes its routine. The students, each with book in hand and coat, if the weather is cold, proceed to the lower floor where they are more safely located in case of a bomb hit. With a remarkable alertness the volunteer wardens, members of the senior class, take their posts throughout the school. That every precaution be taken,a boy is stationed at each advantageous place from the roof to the ground floor. Each of these boys has been well instructed in his particular duty. The wardens realize the importance of their work and assume the responsibility with a rather mature attitude. While there have been no casualties, the wardens are well aware of the awful possibilities, and for this very reason observe every precaution. Yes, our wardens are of the opinion that the best way to preserve safety is to be prepared for danger. C. WALLACE SHELLER DAY Awake! It is morning; The sun is shining bright On the vast earth’s sorrows and joys— ’Tis day. CLAIRE M. LINDSAY BORROWED My life, It is not mine— It came from Him above— It must go back to Him someday— My life. MARIE A. TESTA 64 AIR-RAID WARDENS 65 THE AGNITA ST. AGNES NURSE AIDS When America summoned its men and women from their special occupations and leisurely living to take their places in the Armed Forces and industrial plants, we, though school girls, wanted a share in this great patriotic movement. Our desire was soon gratified. Through the co-operation of the Faculty and the Red Cross Association, we were given a course in Home Nursing and another in First Aid. Both courses were so new and interesting that we became impatient for each succeeding lesson. Our training was most thorough and our examination most difficult, but the thrill we experienced on being presented with certificates doubly repaid our efforts—and, we hope, those of our teachers. With our knowledge of Home Nursing and First Aid, we were prepared for many everyday emergencies, and felt privileged when we were assigned to special posts in the school during an air-raid drill. With a promptness, indicative of assurance and willingness, we, nurse aids, were ready to give assistance, should it be needed. How pleased we were to know that we were participating in a patriotic cause! Though our contribution was very small, we, St. Agnes Nurse Aids, felt that we were keeping step with our Armed Forces in the great march to Victory. ANN C. DORAN THE NURSE Marching Side by side with Our men. She brings them all Hope and courage and victory— The nurse. ANN C. DORAN OUR BOYS They fight For our freedom In fields across the sea, While we at home work and pray. Our boys! JANE K. SHELLER 66 ST. AGNES NURSE AIDES THE AGNITA STAFF THE AGNITA OUR STAFF Victory! Victory! This triumphal cry has been echoed and re- echoed in the hearts of our staff members. Conscientiously and in- dustriously have they applied themselves to their duties as students, and have experienced their reward—a place on the honor roll. The satisfactory mastering of studies merited for them a position on the Agnita Staff.” Their whole-hearted appreciation of the appointment has been well confirmed by their diligent and enthusiastic labor, the fruit of which is the Agnita of 1943. We congratulate our classmates on their achieving so desired a goal,- we hope that these honors are but the indications of many victories to follow,- we thank them for compiling the book which will grow dear with the years the book which will be a memento of the days which we shall often enjoy recalling. ANNA D. RICCARDO On opposite page, reading from left to right: Standing: C. Wallace Sheller and William A. McClain. Sitting: Jane K. Sheller, Rosalind H. Swords, Anne M. Donovan, Marie A. Testa, Florence M. Sheller, Margaret M. Frame, Elizabeth M. Ahn, and Mary F. Tavani. LIFE Breathing, Speaking the truth, Loving beautiful things, Depending upon God, then self— 'Tis life. ROSALIND H. SWORDS GOD-GIVEN Two hands That came from God Are so worn and tired— But think of the work they have done! Two hands! MARTHA T. De ANGELO 69 THE AGNITA HOLY COMMUNION O God, when Thou dost come to me Do I treat Thee as Guest Divine? Do I offer a hospitality Befitting earth’s Creator and mine? Alas! My poor distracted soul Does merit not one gift of Thine,- But Thou in Thy great mercy sweet Dost flood my soul with grace divine,- Dost lift my heart from empty earth To Thy great Self and heavenly shrine. 0 God, Thou art too good to me In daily blessing me and mine! While kneeling humbly at Thy feet 1 beg of Thee my soul enshrine With gifts which Thou alone can give, Until it is entirely Thine. O God, when Thou dost come to me, May I treat Thee as Guest Divine,- May I offer a hospitality Befitting earth’s Creator and mine! 70 HARRY C. McNAMEE THE AGNITA BASKETBALL ’Tis God has given to us all The power to run and play and win; To control ourselves lest we fail, To play our best through thick and thin. Tis not the game that proves our power, But the striving with strength and will To play our best at every turn And achieve so much more than skill. So with fair-play close by our side, How many a choice have we made! The winning or losing means naught— Tis the manner in which we played. 71 ROSALIND H. SWORDS THE AGNITA BOYS’ BASKETBALL By C WALLACE SHELLER With many veterans answering the practice call early in November, Manager John Civial and Coach Francis Moran soon had one of the best balanced and smoothest playing teams that ever played for St. Agnes. Rev. William H. Finigan took up the duties of Athletic Director, which were relinquished by Rev. John M. Healy upon his entrance into the Army. Due to the transportation difficulties, the schedule was limited to twelve games, of which the St. Agnes passers won eight and lost four. It is worthy to note that this schedule was the toughest ever encountered by a St. Agnes team. It included: West Catholic, Coates- ville and Archmere Academy, all new teams on our schedule. The team adopted a new nickname, 'Stags,’’ which was selected by votes cast by the students. The Stags possessed great fighting spirit and played with a fine brand of teamwork. Captain Jerry McCormick was an inspiring leader and contributed greatly to the success of the team, leading in scoring with 144 points. Although there was no established starting five, Joe McGrogan with his steady play and Babe Finegan with his brilliant ball handling were the forwards who saw the most action. At the guard posts the most regular performers were Tom Cassidy, whose ability to control the backboard was a valuable asset to the team, and Wally Sheller, whose defensive playing helped much during the course of the season. Tony Barber, a reserve, was the sparkplug of the team, while Joe Joyce, another frequent starter, was of unmeasurable value to the team in his relief roles. Pete McCool with his smooth brand of basketball gave many of the big fellows plenty of trouble during the season, while Larry Ford and Dorn DaBunda supplied the needed punch to bring victory on more than one occasion. Jerry McCormick’s 24 points in the Marple Newtown game, the close guarding of Tom Cassidy and Wally Sheller, which held Jerry Bowlus, the leading scorer of the Philadelphia Catholic League, to six points, and Babe Finegan’s great foul shooting in the last game of the season, when he converted nine out of ten fouls, were some of the highlights of the season. The Stags this year, by winning all their home games, also ac- complished a feat never before realized by a St. Agnes team. The two most noted victories of the year were over Salesianum and Arch- mere Academy. The Jayvees with a very short schedule had several heart-breaking defeats and finished the season with one victory and four loses. They also played four non-scheduled games,- of these they were victorious in three. The student manager of the team, Ray Waldron, deserves much credit also in the success of the team for his tireless work throughout the season. 72 THE VARSITY TEAM THE AGNITA Looking back on our successful season, we realize the value of the time and effort so generously given by Father Finigan, “Franny” Moran and Jack Civial. To these men, we extend our sincere thanks. SCHEDULE Varsity Jay vee December Opp. St. A. Opp. S. A. 8—St. James, Pennsgrove. . . .18 46 Home 11—West Catholic . . .34 15 33 11 Away 13—Salesianum . .30 25 18 15 Away January 8—Church harm School... . .. .33 39 Home 12—Archmere Academy.... .. .34 42 Home 19—Marple Newtown . .24 49 25 21 Home 26—St. Katherine . .10 34 Away February 2—Coatesville . .51 31 44 24 Away 9—Salesianum . .27 28 Home 12—Archmere Academy.... . .34 21 Away 16—St. Katherine . .23 43 Home 23—Marple Newtown . .24 36 27 29 Away HIGH SCHOOL CLASS LEAGUE After the close of the regular basketball season, the boys’ at- tention was turned to the Class League. There was a fine turnout and each game was played with great zeal and enthusiasm. The Sen iors with a veteran team had little trouble and emerged victoriously with six straight wins. The Juniors gave the Seniors a scare in the fourth game, when an extra period was needed. FINAL STANDING Team Won Lost Points SENIORS 0 12 JUNIORS 2 8 SOPHOMORES 1 5 2 FRESHMEN 1 5 2 SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADE LEAGUE These boys had plenty of excitement and thrills during the course of their six scheduled games, and not until the final game was the winning team determined. Joseph McGrogan coached the Navy, the winning team,- Francis Finegan, the Marines,- Wallace Sheller, the Army,- and Gerald McCormick, the Air Corps. FINAL STANDING Team Won Lost Tied Points Navy 1 0 10 Marines 2 0 8 Army 3 3 0 6 Air Corps 0 6 0 0 74 THE AGNITA GIRLS’ BASKETBALL By ROSALIND H. SWORDS The time has come, was the expression on the lips of each basketeer who enthusiastically awaited the opening of girls inter- class basketball games. Every year, after the festivities of Christmas holidays are over, the girls don their various colored gym suits and with great vigor and zeal begin their basketball season. This year, we, as Seniors, have attained the goal for which we have so earnestly played. As champions of the two preceeding years, we have again earned the reward of a victorious team—the shining symbol of victory, the trophy cup. Although our only defeat was at the hands of the Juniors, we had to use our utmost efforts against the exceptionally strong Freshmen, who were at our heels every minute, and now occupy second place. Senior Team Center Martha De Angelo (co-captain) Forwa rds Guards Anna Riccardo Mary Mattia (co-captain) Florence Sheller Jane Sheller Mary McCormick Rosalind Swords Elizabeth Ahn Claire Lindsay Ethel McCarter FINAL STANDING Team Won Lost Tied Points Seniors 8 1 0 16 Freshmen 5 4 0 10 Juniors 4 5 0 8 Sophomores 1 8 0 2 JUNIOR BASKETBALL LEAGUE This year, the seventh and eighth grade teams had a much harder schedule, for they played against the second team of the freshmen who bore the title, WAMS. Yes, on certain appointed afternoons anyone in St. Agnes’ gym could witness a raging game between two of the following teams: WAACS, WAVES, SPARS and WAMS, for these were the titles of the teams in the Junior League. 75 SENIOR GIRLS' TEAM THE AGNITA Although each of the four teams strove enthusiastically for final victory, the WAACS won the honor with a 16 to 14 score against their closest competitors the WAMS. The teams and their coaches were: ....................................Mary Mattia and Elizabeth Ahn CDadc ..................................................Irene Daley and Alice McKinley w Awcc.................................Florence Sheller and Mary McCormick WAVES........................................Jane Sheller and Anna Riccardo FINAL STANDING Tied Points 1 11 1 9 0 4 0 2 Precious memories, physical fitness and practice in acquiring self- control are the benefits received through the kindness of our pastor, Father Schuyler, who so generously gives us so much of his precious time. To him we are most grateful. Team Won Lost WAACS 5 1 WAMS 2 SPARS 4 WAVES 5 RESOLVED! I grew hotter and hotter. My head began to ache. There was a most unpleasant feeling in my stomach. I felt as though I were going to die. Would this horrible torture ever stop! I clenched my fists and murmured a prayer. Suddenly, it stopped. With a sigh of relief I once more placed my feet on the ground. For a split second I thought I was back to normal, but immediately my head began to spin and my knees grew weak. Somehow, I managed to reach a bench and sit down. While sitting there, I firmly resolved that I would never again ride on a scenic railway. MARY T. McCORMICK 77 THE AGNITA FATHER TIME KEEPS THE RECORDS To us, the Class of 1943, the happiest and brightest of September days was the one on which we began our high school career. We mounted the steps of St. Agnes High School to join the great army of youth with the hope that after our training we would be well prepared to fight the battles of life. While receiving our basic training, we were known as freshmen.” The understanding and capable faculty introduced us to the upper classes and then to the subjects they expected us to master during the following months. The thought of learning a roster, changing classes, and studying Latin and algebra would have paralized us both mentally and physically had we been given time to become rigid; but applica- tion” being the watchword, we found ourselves translating Latin and factoring algebraic expressions before we realized it. Many of us became interested in basketball, a sport for which our zest increased with time. Our team, though a promising one, was not quite prepared to cope with those of the upper classes. We were permitted to take our first solo flight during the June examinations. A few were unable to prove their skill, but most of us enjoyed the thrill of success. As a reward we were given our first furlough. Like all vacations, ours was much too short. However, we return- ed with a feeling of superiority—especially in the presence of the new recruits—for we had received our first stripe and had our name changed to sophomores.” We were expected to do more advanced work. The first lessons of biology and geometry might have disturbed us had we not already developed that disease, sophomoritis.” In basketball our improvement was noticeable—the girls won the cup and some of the boys were chosen for the varsity team. Spring ushered in the day on which we were to select our courses for special training in the form of Classical and Commercial Studies. Four of our group were named for officers training: Joseph McGrogan, president; John Falcone, vice-president; Mary Tavani, secretary; and Claire Lindsay, treasurer. Examinations and our second furlough followed. Our return to school was most eventful—we received another stripe and a new title, “juniors.” Promotion generally includes added responsibility and in our case it proved no exception. The interminable sentences of Cicero, the experiments of chemistry, the constant drill of stenography, and the exactness of bookkeeping kept us more busy than we had ever been before. 78 THE AGNITA The December of this year will always be remembered, for it was then that the declaration of war rang throughout our beloved America. We realized that we could best serve our America by earnest study, and we studied with renewed zeal. Shortly after the new year the girls had the opportunity of receiv- ing a course in home nursing, a course which will prove beneficial at all times and especially during these days. They are most grateful to the Red Cross Association for giving them a most efficient teacher. More skilled in basketball, the girls again won the cup, and an increasing number of boys were on the varsity team. Our Junior-Senior Banquet, an affair never to be forgotten, re- minded us that another year was coming to a close. We bade farewell to the Class of 1942 and anticipated our new title, seniors.” With a step of assurance and a superior air we began our senior year, the first half year of which was given exclusively to intensive study. Then we selected our rings, participated in the Knights of Columbus Essay Contest, chose the Agnita Staff, rehearsed and gave our Passion Play, and edited our Agnita. Our basketball games provided the much needed relaxation. The girls were happy beyond expression when they won the cup for the third time in succession, and the boys were just as happy when they won so many of their difficult games. The May Procession, one whose beauty was tinged with sorrow because it was to be our last, reminded us that our days at St. Agnes were numbered. Too soon came the day on which we were to leave, to put into practice all we had learned during the time of our training. Yes, our days of training are over. As full fledged soldiers we march forth to meet the trials and difficulties of life, with the hope that, after our battles are fought and won, we shall hear Our Great Leader and General, Christ, say, Well done! You have won the eternal victory! 79 MARIE A. TESTA MARY F. TAVANI THE AGNITA CLASS WILL We, the Class of 1943, do ordain this as our last will and testa- ment, and hope that all our priceless gifts will bring wealth and happi- ness to each beneficiary. To our Alma Mater, we give our pledge of sincerest loyalty. To our beloved pastor, Father Schuyler, our heartfelt gratitude for all that he has done for us in the past, and a promise of fidelity to him and his teachings in the future. To our patient and zealous teachers, the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we offer our grateful appreciation for the countless benefits they have so unsparingly bestowed on us. To the innocent freshmen, we bestow the title, sophisticated sophomores, and the pleasure of speaking in the auditorium. To the sophomores, the dignified title, “juniors, and the right to select class officers. To the juniors, the exalted title, seniors,” and our best wishes for their success in the many important, though pleasant, tasks that make the senior year so attractive. To the individual members of the Class of 1944, we bequeath the following: To Joseph Sheller, Thomas Cassidy’s height. To Jean Graul, Elizabeth Ahn’s enthusiasm. To Jean Reilly, Ann Doran s keen sense of humor. To George Hart, the responsibility of the presidency. To Edith Mattia, her sister Mary’s leadership in basketball. To James Finegan, Raymond Waldron’s loquaciousness. To Anne McCormick, JaneSheller’s place as efficient bookkeeper. To Lawrence Ford, Gerald McCormick’s ability to get things done. To Patricia Reilly, Margaret Frame’s place in the Passion Play. To Emily Cochlin, Rosalind Sword’s exuberance. To Mary Mason, Mary McCormick’s quiet manner. To William Osborne, Wallace Sheller’s art in teasing. To Rockine Leroy, Anna Riccardo’s alertness in basketball. To Charles Walker, William Gill’s love for mechanical drawing. 80 THE AGNITA To Viola Condemi, Anne Donovan’s size. To Dora D’Addio, Martha De Angelo’s aptitude for making friends. To Charles Penrose, James Pennell’s perpetual smile. To Margaret Cialini, Claire Lindsay’s vocal talent. To Mary Lou Ammon, Florence Sheller’s interest in all class activities. To Robert Joyce, Francis Finegan’s calmness. To Elizabeth Nicholson, Dora Gaspari’s willingness to assist on all occasions. To Elaine Williams, Ethel McCarter’s love for poetry. To Floyd Coggins, John Riley’s bashfulness. To John Donovan, Anthony Barber’s superfluous energy. To John Keithley, John Wright’s fondness for playing the part of ‘‘class clown.” To Joseph Ahearn, John Falcone’s frequent holidays. To Dominic Da Bunda, Herman Tavani’s place as the ever reliable.” To Dolores De Angelo, Mary Tavani’s permanent smile. To Paul Cosgrove, Lawrence Cowan’s witicisms. To Albert Newman, James McCool’s refusal to get excited. To George Oakes, Harry McNamee’s straight hair. To Howard Smith, Joseph McGrogan’s physique. To Mary Cassasso, Marie Testa’s ability to write essays. To John White, William McClain’s curly locks. To Joseph Joyce, James Pennell’s stock of moron jokes. To Anne Dougherty, Carmela Di Santi’s weight. To Antoinette Ragussa, Elizabeth Schenker’s hair ribbons. We do hereby revoke any and all wills made by the class hereto- fore, individually or collectively, including any and all promises which may conflict with statements contained in this document, and do declare that this will has been affirmed and signed by the class on this the fifth day of June, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- three. Witnesses: Signed: JANE K. SHELLER MARGARET M. FRAME ANNA D. RICCARDO ETHEL M. McCARTER 81 F. Finegan A. DOnovan J. Riley M. TestA R. SworDs A. RiccarDo 00 K) H. TaVani C. Dl Santi J. McCool M. MatTia G. McCOrmick J. McGRogan C. LindsaY E. Ahn H. McNamee R. WalDron J. Pennell A. BaRber W. McCIAin T. Cassidy F. ShEller E. McCaRter D. GasPari J. FalconE A. DorAn W. Gill M. McCormiCk L. Cowan W. ShEller J. WrighT M. De AngelO J. Sheller E. SchEnker M. FRame M. TaVani MARTHA T. DE ANGELO THE AGNITA THE AGNITA ST. AGNES ALUMNI HONOR ROLL May the Prince of Peace, who came To bring new light to men, Bless ypur days of service true With graces that strengthen! May He bless the Flag you serve, So it will always be A pledge of truth and justice, And a symbol of the FREE! 83 ROSALIND H. SWORDS THE AGNITA TO THE ALUMNI IN UNIFORM Alumni members in the armed forces, we greet you! Harken, while we pay our humble tribute! Though we miss you more than we shall attempt to say, we are proud of you,- we are proud to know that so many of the children of our Alma Mater are physically and mentally able to be of service to America during these most trying days. Yes, this graduation day finds so many of you scattered all over the world, upholding the traditions of our nation and the ideals which you learned to appreciate while in your and our Alma Mater. When you took off your civilian clothes and donned the uniform of Uncle Sam, you dismissed for the time thoughts of pleasure, ease, and personal ambition, and welcomed strenuous training, vigorous fighting, and unheard-of hardships that the rights of mankind, the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, might be saved and made more secure for all times. Your ccuse is a noble one, and upon it depends the destiny of the entire universe. You have inspired us with courage and instilled in us the desire to imitate you. Perhaps we shall be beside you within the next few months,- but whether we are with you in battle or still on the home front, we assure you that victory will be more glorious because some of our Alumni members will have shared in securing it. To assure vou of our sincerest appreciation for all that you are doing in this, the greatest struggle of the world, we, the Class of 1943, dedicate to you the cherished work of ojr senior year, our “Agnila.” Yo jr valor has been our inspiration. Like a light it glows more steadily as time goes on, and it gives us a confidence that is deeply rooted. So onward, soldiers of God and Amerca1 Upon you and those with you depend the preservation of Truth and Justice in some countries and their restoration in others. We pra that God will bless and protect ea:h one of you, and guide you onto the path of victory. Meanwhile, we hope that the time is close at hand when the dark night of war and destruction will give way to the bright day of peace and happiness, and that the next graduation day will find you here with us. For today, remember that we are with you whether you are in the far-off Solomon Islands, Australia, Africa, Europe, or in our own United States. How happy we shall be to see you marching home to live the American way again, marching home to enjoy more fully that American way! Until then, God be with you! ANN C. DORAN ROSALIND H. SWORDS 84 THE AGNITA O Christ the Leader, protect and guide those in our Armed Forces. 85 THE AGNITA HONOR ROLL Reverend Francis Haley, ’20 Louis Cosgriff, ’21 Joseph Cosgriff, ’23 Richard Haley, ’23 Eleanor Cassidy, ’24 John Ludlam, ’24 Dr. James Rogan, '24 Aloysius Hanselman, '26 John Hickey, ’26 John McGill, ’26 Roger Hollingsworth, ’28 Thomas McIntyre, ’28 Joseph Yeager, ’28 Thomas Finegan, ’29 Thorn Lewis, ’29 Lawrence Finegan, '30 Earl Holman, '30 Carol Moran, ’30 Charles Daly, '31 Michael Doyle, ’31 Benjamin Giancola, ’31 David Monaghan, '31 Charles Robinson, ’31 Anna Daly, ’32 William Moore, ’32 Francis Foster, ’33 William O’Brien, ’33 John Bannan, ’34 Matthew Collins, ’34 Victor Giancola, ’34 Thomas Montgomery, ’34 Richard Snitzer, ’34 Edward Finegan, ’35 Robert Finegan, '35 Lawrence Haley, '35 Elizabeth McGrogan, '35 Francis Megargee, ’35 Donald Brewster, '36 William Corcoran, '36 Thomas McKnight, ’36 James Monaghan, '36 Francis Murray, ’36 William Bannan, ’37 William Conwell, ’37 Joseph Corcoran, '37 Joseph Cumberland, ’37 Trent Gaspari, ’37 Rosemary Gay, '37 William Gorman, ’37 Edward Joyce, ’37 Joseph McCool, '37 Jane Swords, '37 James Terrizzi, ’37 Arthur Corcoran, ’38 Thomas Di Pasquale, ’38 George Donohue, ’38 Andrew Harrold, ’38 William Hayes, ’38 Harry McCullough, '38 Louis Megargee, ’38 Thomas Morley, '38 Elizabeth Purcell, '38 Benjamin Berardi, ‘39 Charles Brown, '39 John Finegan, ‘39 William Martin, ’39 86 THE AGNITA Russell McCool, ’39 Edward McCormick, ’39 John Penrose, ’39 William Sheridan, '39 William Springman, ’39 John Terrels, '39 Emidio Zaccarelli, ’39 Robert Brown, ’40 Patrick Corcoran, ’40 Michael Malloy, ’40 Frederick O’Connell, ’40 Vincent Sheller, ’40 Vincent Clark, ’41 Joseph Cowan, '41 John Gleason, ’41 Vincent Gorman, ’41 Leo McCarter, ’41 Francis McCool, '41 Francis Newman, ’41 John Purcell, '41 Joseph Reilly, ’41 Peter Schroth, ’41 John Smith, '41 Brian Walker, ’41 Charles Watts, ’41 Joseph Zaccarelli, ’41 Thomas Burke, ’42 Hugh Connor, ’42 Philip Corcoran, ’42 John Dougherty, ’42 Edward Hayes, ’42 Charles Kershaw, ’42 Joseph Mason, ’42 William Mulcahy, ’42 Anthony Sabatini, ’42 Robert Thompson, ’42 Francis Zaccarelli, ’42 1 V 87 THE AGNITA ALUMNI NOTES As president of the St. Agnes High School Alumni Association, it is my pleasure to extend congratulations to the Graduating Class o 1943, and to wish its members success in the future they have planned for themselves. It is also my pleasure to accept and welcome these graduates as members of the Alumni Association. 1N1_11 , w JOHN M. REILLY, President. CLASS OF 1929 The Class of 1929 extends to the Class of 1943 hearty congratula- tions, and the sincere wish for the future success of each and every member. Since leaving St. Agnes High School, each of us has followed the path we felt would lead us to happiness, or fame, or success, depending upon our individual tastes and desires, and as a result we are repre- sented in the different walks of life. There have been many times when we have looked longingly back on our carefree school days, and remembered gratefully the kindness and patience of the priests and sisters as they prepared us to take our places in the world. Good luck, Graduates! MARY E. HAGER CLASS OF 1933 First, we extend our thanks to our beloved pastor, Father Schuyler, and the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, for their untiring efforts to make our school life one of work and pleasure. Second, we wish to extend our congratulations to the Class of 1943 and wish them God speed and success on their ventures into the futUre' MARIE C. HANSELMAN CLASS OF 1934 Once more June days draw near and thousands of boys and girls are turning their thoughts toward graduation. Although graduation is a very festive occasion, it means leaving the beloved Alma Mater and many happy and carefree days. 88 THE AGNITA Soon your glorious school days will be memories and you will be launched into a troubled world filled with the suffering and horror of the present war. We sincerely hope you will not experience much of this chaos. We, the Class of 1934, extend to you our sincere congratulations, and wish you God speed in your future undertakings. MARGARET McCOOL CLASS OF 1935 We, the Class of 1935, extend to the Class of 1943 sincerest congratulations on the completion of a successful high school course. We wish each and every one of you health, happiness, and success in the future. This occasion affords us an opportunity to thank Father Schuyler and the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart, for the teaching and guidance they gave us during our school days at St. Agnes. May God’s blessing be with you, Class of 1943! MARY BADUM DAYLOR CLASS OF 1938 You, the Class of 1943, are graduating into a war-torn world. Today, it is secondary for us to wish you success in your personal endeavors, for primarily we all have one aim in mind—victory. What a consolation to know that there will be victory! We, with our religious background, know that Christianity must survive. Of course we know that victory will not be ours without hardships and sacrifices. As Christians and citizens of the United States, we are more than willing to pay the price. I How often have we, the Class of 1938, appreciated the principles set forth by our Pastor and teachers. To thank them is inadequate, but we are grateful for the opportunity to express our appreciation to Father Schuyler and the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, for their guidance and teachings during our school term. During our five years as alumni, we have more clearly understood the results of the standards instilled by our Alma Mater. We know you will find these fundamentals most valuable in the obtaining of victory and also in the sharing of it. Accept our hearty congratulations, Class of 1943, and let us hope and pray that your patroness, Our Lady of Victory, will soon reign over the whole universe. _ . EILEEN M. McCORMICK 89 THE AGNITA CLASS OF 1939 A famous poet once said: The time has come to talk of many things. But in this troubled world of today it seems as though, the only topic of conversation is the war. However, we shall follow that poet’s advice and talk of many things. The first topic is the Class of 1943. We, the Class of 1939, feeling wise with the worldly wisdom acquired in the four years since we left St. Ag nes, wish to extend our congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 1943. Though world conditions have changed, though greater sacrifices will be demanded of you, you can meet the challenge f'ie y orH flaunts before you, if you follow the teachings and principles instilled within you in the years you spent in the halls of your Alma Mater. Before we conclude our talk of many things we must report that wf ass 1939 is busy working in various fields of war activity. We wish to say now that we are most proud of our classmates serving in the Armed Forces. To the rest on the home front, we must say: Keep up the good work. Follow the principles you learned some few years ego.” The last topic in our talk of many things is our gratitude. We have not forgotten that we owe a debt of thanks to our loyal pastor, Father Schuyler, to our assistant priests, and to our faithful sisters, who taught us how to cope with the problems and difficulties that would beset our paths. Our talk of many things has ended, just as your high school days, Class of 1943, have come to a close. With the knowledge that is yours, go forth, and, not only talk of doing many things, but accomplish them as well. ANNE M. ROBINSON CLASS OF 1940 Oh! say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave O' er the land of the free and the home of the brave!” These words mean a lot to the American people today. With sons, sweethearts, and husbands serving in the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, we Americans have suddenly realized the significance of the flag and how proud we feel when we see it flowing in the breeze overhead. You graduates also carry a flag,- one that is the most essential factor in winning the war, and that is the banner of religion. Today, more than ever, it is necessary that this banner lead the parade of every man, woman, and child, living in the world at the present time, because neglect of religion brings hate, destruction, and extinction. 90 THE AGNITA We, the Class of 1940, have carried the banner of religion with pride and gratitude. We are grateful for our religion and for receiving religious training from our pastor, Father Schuyler, and the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. So to you, Class of 1943, our heartiest congratulations are extend- ed, and we know you will keep the banner of the Catholic religion flying forever. CHARLOTTE M. McCORMICK CLASS OF 1941 Shrapnel from the same bomb that dropped on Pearl Harbor has landed in our midst, scattering the Class of 1941. Regardless of where our fellow students are, you may be sure their thoughts have turned at this season to St. Agnes’ graduating class with the best of wishes in their hearts for the Class oT 1943. The short expanse of two years has impressed upon us one thing— a Catholic education stands above all others. Remember, students of 1943, the time you have spent in a Catholic high school in the past four years has placed you one step higher on that ladder which every- one spends years trying to climb. May your ascent be swift and successful. MARGARET G. HOFFMAN CLASS OF 1942 The calendar says it is a year—our hearts say it was only yester- day that we walked through the portals of our Alma Mater never to return as students. For such is the destiny of all who seek knowledge— having completed one phase, we seek another. Our pursuits have varied, but none lacks interest. We are trying to yield a harvest of fruit in tne second phase of our life as we have done in the first. The success that has come to us thus far, we humbly credit to our beloved pastor, Father Schuyler, and to the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Their philosophy of life and death is for- ever rooted in our hearts. Our boys have become men and it is to those who are serving in the armed forces now and to those who will serve soon that this record is dedicated. Our president, Philip Corcoran, is in the United States Army. The others also serving in the Army are: Thomas Burke, William Mulcahy and Anthony Sabatini. 91 THE AGNITA L se 'n ar'nes are: Edward Hayes, our vice-president; Hugh Connor, Charles Kershaw and Robert Thompson. John Dougherty, Joseph Mason and Francis Zaccarelli are in the Navy. Louis Hutton is helping his father. James McAnnulla is employed at Davis’ Lumber Yard. Robert Moran is employed at the Short Line Bus Company. Francis O Brien is working a. Sharp and Dohme. Joseph Cassidy is emp'oyed at Baldwin Locomotive Works. William White and George Hunt help to keep the Army supplied with food by working on the farm. Anne McCormick attends Miss Eachus’ Business School. Elizabeth Castagna is studying music at State Teachers College. Barbara Corcoran and Florence Dawson are at home. Norma De Pose is taking a Business Course in Chester. Mary Di Santi is employed at Sylvestri’s Store. Margaret Kavcnagh and Catherine Sheller are studying nursing at Misericordia Ho. Sal. Kathleen Kavanaugh is willing to wait on you at Grant’s. Agnes Kelly is a stenographer at Baldwin Locomotive Works. Frances Kershaw is at Marakos’ Candy Kitchen. Joan La Chapelle is studying nursing at Chester County Hospital. Mary Murphy is a stenographer at the Sun Ship Yard. Grace Redmond is a stenographer at Schramm’s Inc. Helen Snyder is employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. Elizaoeth Travis is a postulant at Villa Maria. Frances Williams is attending State Teachers College. The undersigned is a student technician at the University of Penn- sylvania Hospital. ANNE McCUSKER OUR HERO Fighting— Muddy marshes— Battered helmet—gun shots— Body bruised and tired and worn—our Hero! ANN C. DORAN 92 THE AGNITA TO LAUGH, OR NOT TO LAUGH The stars with their laughter are shaken; The long waves laugh at sea; And the little Imp of Laughter Laughs in the soul of me. THEODORE MAYNARD 93 THE AGNITA W. McC.— Wasn’t that too bad about Fred? J. McC.— What happened? W. McC.— He was a window washer and he stepped back to admire his work. P. F.— My mom is always having trouble with either pop or the furnace. C. DiS.— What’s the matter? P. F.— Every time she would watch one, the other would go out. G. McC.— How long was your last cook with you? F. F.—“She was never with us. She was against us. C. L— Why did you leave your last position? Illness? B. A.— Yes, the boss got sick of me. T. B.— I’ve often been compared with Clark Gable. N. D.—“Who made the comparison? T. B— My girl; she seems to prefer Gable. R. S.— It takes all kinds of people to make a world.” W. S.— Yes, but she’s the kind that ought to go somewhere and make one of her own. J. McG.— Let me tell you, my friend, that horse knows almost as much as I do. R. W.— Well, don’t tell anybody else; you might want to sell him someday. P. F.— Oh boy, she’s a card. R. S.— She looks pretty human to me. First Private—”1 feel like telling that sergeant where to get off at again. Second Private— What do you mean, ‘again’? First Private— I felt like it yesterday, too. Mess Sergeant— Who the heck put those Rowers on the table? Orderly— The captain. Mess Sergeant— Purdy, ain’t they? Sergeant— What’s the first thing you do when cleaning a rifle?” Private— Look at the number. Sergeant— And what’s that got to do with it? Private-— To make sure it’s my gun.” C. L.— Do you sing soprano? E. A.— Sure,- how does the first verse go?” 94 THE AGNITA J. W.— When are you going to shave?” H. T.—“I’m not shaving till Saturday.” J. W.—;‘‘What’s coming off Saturday?” H. T.—“My whiskers.” Sister—' ‘This makes five times I have punished you this week. Now, Joseph, what have you to say?” J. McG.— “Well, I’m glad it's Friday.” First Draftee— What did the little dog say when he ran through the fire?” Second Draftee—“I dunno. What?” First Draftee—“He said, ‘Wheel I’ve just been defurred!’.” J. McC - “What' s wrong with the guy, asking you if you can dance?” C. L.—“I was dancing with him when he asked me.” W. McC.—“He df.ots in fur and hides.” F. S.— Well, if he were honest, he wouldn’t have to hide.” Girl—“Will you please donate something to the Old Ladies’ Home?” Man—“Sure, help yourself to my mother-in-law.” Actress—“Does my new part give me a chance to please my public?” Manager—“I should say so! You die in the first act.” The list of prize-winners at a recent event read: Mrs. Smith, winner of the rolling-pin throwing contest. She hurled the pin 75 feet. Mr. Smith won the 100-yard dash.” They had given their son a bicycle and were watching proudly as he rode around and around the block. On his first circuit he shouted: “Look, Mom, no hands!” The second time around: “Look, Mom, no feet!” And the third time: “Look, Mom, no teeth!” F. F. keeping guard, heard, through the darkness, the sound of an approaching horse. “Halt. Who goes there?” he challenged. “The commanding officer,” was the reply. “Dismount, sir, and advance to be recognized,” called the guard. The officer did so, then he asked, “By the way, who posted you here?” “No one, sir,” said F. F., “I’m just practicing.” First Rookie— Did you know that my sergeant talks to himself?” Second Rookie—“So does mine, but he doesn’t know it. He thinks someone is listening.” Sophomore—“Did you ever take chloroform?” Freshman—“No, who teaches it?” 95 THE AGNITA Professor (rapping on desk)— Order.’’ Entire Class— Coke!” M. M.— I forgot to ask you to my picnic tomorrow. A. R.— Too late now; I’ve prayed for a blizzard.’’ Mother— This hurts me more than it does you, Billy. Billy— Don’t be too severe with yourself, Mamma. Well, I suppose the little wife will win all the arguments in your house. No, she’ll win half of them. You expect to win the other half, eh? No, but my mother-in-law will. J. S.— He’s a pain in the neck ordinarily, but not on the dance floor. F. S.— You’re right. On the dance floor he’s a pain in the foot. Sergeant— Didn’t you catch that guy? You had blood hounds. Cop— Well, could I help it if he was anemic? H. T.— A man picked my pocket. T. C — What did he get? H. T.— Practice. Joe— My feet were sticking out of the covers. Moe— Why didn’t you pull them in? Joe— I ain’t pulling those cold things in bed with me. A. D.— Isn’t that a terrible picture of me? I look just like a monkey. M. T.— You should have thought of that before you had it taken. T. C.—“There are several things I can always count on. J. R.— What are they? T. C.— My fingers. Clerk— Yes, sir, that’s the smartest hat we’ve got. M. McC.— It doesn’t have to be smart. I’ll put the brain in it myself. A. R.— Do you have many lines to speak in the new play? J. P.— No, I take the part of the husband. 96 THE AGNITA WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF: Gerald McCormick didn’t rest up the day after a game? Marie Testa couldn’t write essays? Jane Sheller didn’t like bookkeeping? Raymond Waldron were lost for words? Mary Mattia ever said “no”? Claire Lindsay lost the art of making faces? William McClain weren’t friendly? James McCool were seen with a girl? Florence Sheller didn’t have her jolly expressions? Thomas Cassidy were short? James Pennell lost his giggle? Elizabeth Ahn didn’t like the boys? John Wright couldn’t make us laugh? Anthony Barber couldn’t take a joke? Rosalind Swords didn’t have a nice personality? Lawrence Cowan were serious? John Falcone never missed school? Anne Donovan were late for school? Wallace Sheller couldn’t make wise-cracks? Ethel McCarter had short, curly hair? Mary Tavani didn’t have a sweet disposition? Herman Tavani were lazy? Ann Doran weren’t in a happy mood? John Riley didn t go with Pete and Squinty”? Dora Gaspari had her hair untidy? Carmela Di Santi were thin? Joseph McGrogan didn’t fulfill his office as class president? Martha De Angelo walked home at noon time? William Gill were without freckles? Margaret Frame didn’t blush? Francis Finegan talked rapidly? Anna Riccardo were disinterested in school activities? Mary McCormick were demonstrative? Harry McNamee didn’t laught at “Wrighty”? Elizabeth Schenker were without friends? 97 THE AGNITA SONG HITS OF 1943 Dearly Beloved............................................Father Schuyler Old Gl ory.....................................Buying Stamps and Bonds I Had the Craziest Dream.................................Algebra I’ve Heard That Song Before...............................School Song Jingle, Jangle, Jingle................................Class Dues Light a Candle in the Chapel............................Assembly On the Old Assembly Line.............................Typewriting Class You’re Driving Me Crazy..................................Spanish We II Get It...............................................Scrap Drive You Speak My Language......................................Latin Class Pass Me By........................................Mid-year Exams Freedom Ring!...............................................2:45 Bell That’s Sabotage..........................................Reports This Is the Army, Mr. Jones........................Victory Corps Let’s Bring New Glory to Old Glory.................Service Flag Moments Like This..................................Passion Play We’re All in It.............................................Room 1 3.121 Miles Away......................................Graduation There Will Never Be Another You..........................Diploma The Thoughts of You Remain............................Alma Mater LAWRENCE E. COWAN SCREEN GUILD OF 1943 ‘‘Priorities on Parade”.. . . ..................May Procession The Major and the Minor ’. . . .Thomas Cassidy and Anthony Barber ‘‘Gentleman Jim”. ..............................James Pennell ‘‘Between Us Girls”.................................Senior Girls Navy Comes Through .....Joseph McGrogan and Wallace Sheller Varsity Show ......................... Varsity Basketball Team Here We Go Again • • Rehearsals in the Auditorium “You Were Never Lovelier”.......................Girls at Banquet ‘‘House of Mystery”.............................St. Agnes School Who Done It? ........................................ Homework “Destination Unknown”....................................Seniors ‘‘Sunset Serenade”.....................................Orchestra ‘‘Johnny Doughboy”. . ............................... John Riley “Strictly in the Groove”.................................Banquet Thanks for the Memory”....................................Latin _The Gold Rush . ._.................................Class Rings ‘‘Youth on Parade”..............................Victory Corps The Glass Key”.................................Key to Library JANE K. SHELLER 98 THE AGNITA PATRONS AND PATRONESSES OUR FRIENDS So many people come and go, And there the pleasure ends, For just a few we care to hold, And these we call our friends. They are the blessings of our lives, These chosen few we know. Through them our hopes take nobler form And by their faith we grow. EVELYN BROWN STANTON 99 the agn;:a Reverend Henry C. Schuyler Reverend Edward A. Connelly Reverend William H. Finigan Revr rend James C. Devers Reverend Dominic Manzocco Reverend John J. Martin Reverend Joseph G. Martin Sisters of I. H. M. Sisters of the Catholic Apostolate, Dante School Sisters of the Catholic Apostolate, Har- riman, N. Y. Sisters of St. Joseph Sister Marie Angelus Sister Marie Edward Sister M. Gloriosa Sister M. Henrita Sister Mary Henry Sister Mary Patrick Class of 1944 Class of 1945 Class of 1946 Rose Abbonizio Mr. and Mrs. Francis Ahearn Mr. M. J. Ahearn Mr. and Mrs. Charles Ahn Howard J. Aldworth, Radio Service Alert Shoe Shop Mr. and Mrs. William Ammon Anthony and Bette's Sweet Shoppe Carmen Aquilino Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Arabia Mr. William Archer Mildred C. Badum Mr. W. H. Baldwin Bandel Bakery Shop Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Bannan Mr. and Mrs. G. Barber Mr. and Mrs. Vance Bates Belt’s Studio Ben’s Fruit Market Benjamin Berordi, U. S. M. C. Mr. and Mi - tro Berardi Mr. and Mi i:an Blackson Boston Shoe onop Bowers and Strode Mr. Anthony Branda Mrs. Agnes Bray Miss Helen M. Bray Miss Sara Bray Pvt. E. Donald Brewster, U.S.M.C. Mr. and Mrs. George J. Brinton Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bruno John J. Buffington Mr. and Mrs. Francis Bugliane Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Bullotta Bernard M. Burke Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Burke Pvt. Thomas E. Burke Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Calista Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Capanna Clarence Carson Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Carter Catherine R. Cassidy Mr. and Mrs. J. G. Cassidy Mr. Joseph P. Cassidy, Jr. Mrs. R. F. Cassidy Elizabeth M. Castagna Mrs. M. Castagna Rose Cataldi Jane Chalfant Shop Mr. and Mrs. J. Herbert Chambers, Jr. Cheyney Gift and Girdle Shop Children of the Dante School Miss Dorothy Cialini Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ciavatta Mr. and Mrs. John E. Ciccaroni Mrs. Ninetta Cinorre John F. Civial Mr. Joseph C. Clark Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Clark Clinic Cleaners and Laundry Mr. and Mrs. George Coffey J. E. Coleman Leona Condemi Mrs. John L. Connelly James G. Connor Miss Julia Cooke Barbara Corcoran Mr. and Mrs. Henry P. Corcoran Mr. and Mrs. John Corcoran Pvt. Philip H. Corcoran Corvin Dance Studio Mr. William A. Cosgriff Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cosgrove Mr. and Mrs. Fdward F. Cotter Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Cotter Miss Dorothy Cowan Pvt. Joseph J. Cowan Guy S. Craig, Music Store Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Curran Mr. and Mrs. D. Da Bunda Mr. and Mrs. V. J. Dalton C. D’Annunzio and Son Mary J. D’Annunzio Mr. and Mrs. Gus D’Antonio Camby Darlington Mr. and Mrs. Charles Dawson, Sr. Florence Dawson Joseph J. Dawson Rosemary T. Dawson Mrs. Thomas Dawson Mr. and Mrs. James De Angelo De Haven’s Drug Store Ellen De Huff Mary Ellen C. De La Coeur Mr. Austin Delaney Miss Margaret Delaney 100 T'-'E AGNITA L. Delpino, Fruit and Produce Mr. and Mrs. Vincent De Philippis Norma De Pose Pvt. Dominic Di Archangelo Miss Elvira Di Archangelo Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Diehm Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Di Fabio Grace Di Gregorio Donald D. Di Marco Frank Di Matteo, Cleaners and Dyers Miss Julia Di Pasquale Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Di Poalantonia Mr. Luigi Di Santi Mr. and Mrs. John J. Dixon Mrs. R. J. Dixon Dorn’s Barber Shop Mr. and Mrs. John J. Donnelly Richard Donnelly Mrs. John Donovan Mr. John Donovan Miss M. Lillian Donovan Miss Mary Donovan Marie T. Doohan Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Dopp Dr. E. F. Doran Mr. Lawrence B. Doran Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Doyle Miss Jean Dulin Sgt. and Mrs. Joseph E. Dulin Mr. John A. Dunleavy Mr. and Mrs. John F. Dunleavy Mr. and Mrs. T. Joseph Dunleavy Diana M. Durante Mrs. Durborow Col. and Mrs. P. R. Dwyer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Epstein Mr. and Mrs. Richard Evans Miss Mary Evoli Miss Josephine Facciolli Mr. Fairbanks Mr. and Mrs. Frank Falcone Tullio D. Falini, (S 2 c) U.S.C.G. Mr. John A. Farrell, 2nd Miss Mary Farrell Fath’s Miss Amelia Ferrazza Catherine E. Finegan Christine G. Finegan Mr. and Mrs. Frank Finegan Mr. and Mrs. James Finegan, Jr. Lucy A. Finegan Mr. and Mrs. Matthew L. Finegan Patricia M. Finegan Mr. Thomas Finegan Mr. and Mrs. Thomas S. Finegan Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Finegan Mr. and Mrs. William Finegan Miss Helen Fitzgerald Anna M. Fitzpatrick Fitzpatrick’s Store Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Flack Ford and Burneson Mrs. Mary Redmond Ford Eugene Foster Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Frame Eleanor A. Frame The Freeman Studio A Friend A Friend A Friend A Friend Mary Jean Gallagher William D Gallagher Garden Theatre Mr. Carlo L. Gaspari Miss Concetta Gaspari Pvt. John A. Gaspari P.F.C. Trent Gaspari Gay Bowling Academy George’s Barber Shop Mr. and Mrs. Bennie J. Giancola Miss Lena M. Giancola David Gibbons Mr. and Mrs. John V. Gibney Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer Gill Mr. and Mrs. George Gleason Mr. Thomas W. Glennon Goldberg's Furniture Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Graul Mr. and Mrs. Ralph E. Green Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Haggerty Mrs. Kathryn Haines Miss Elizabeth B. Haley Hall’s Barber Shop Mr. and Mrs. Joseph L. Hanselman Marie C. Hanselman Mr. and Mrs. William M. Harkins, Jr. The Harlan Norman I. Harris, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. George A. Hart Miss Eleanor C. Hayes Mr. and Mrs. Edward J ayes Pvt. Edward J. Hayes, Js. Mrs. George O. Hayes Pvt. William C. Hayes Mary J. Healy Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Hendrickson, Jr Miss Margaret Heron Mrs. Mary Herron Mr. and Mrs. Roy Herron Mr. and Mrs. Harold Hetherington Helen C. Higgins Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Higgins Highland Dairies W. G. Hilyard Estate Raymond S. Himelright Mr. and Mrs. Earl E. Hoffman Miss Margaret G. Hoffman THE AGNITA -Hv 'cn's Shoe Store Miss Marie D. Howe George Benny” Huobard Mr. and Mrs. Eugene I- .uber Hughes' Corner Store Mr. George A. ! ! .it Mr. Harry Huss Miss Flora Hutt Mr. and Mrs. I n Hutton Louis B. Hutton Mr. and Mrs. Dorino Izzi Robert F. Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Jackson Jay Square Deal Jewelers Johnnie and Connie’s Dr. and Mrs. J. Johnson M s. H. Abner Jones Mr. and Mrs. Charles M. Joyce Pvt. Edward M. Joyce William C. Jcyce Miss Edna Karmerze William J. Kaufmann Florence M. Kavanagh Marie M. Kavanaugh Thomas F. Keating Agnes P. Kelly Catherine M. Kelly Edna Kelly M. W. Kershaw Dr. and Mrs. Charles M. Kerwin Kift’s Greenhouse Dr. Raymond Kramer Margaret D. Lacey Miss Nell Lacey Joan E. La Chapelle Liberty Laundry Mr. and Mrs. William Lawlor Miss Dorothy L. Lewis Miss Marion Lewis Mrs. William T. Lewis Liggett s Drug Store Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lindsay Miss Mary E. Loftus Mr. and Mrs. William F. Logue Lorgus Flower Shop The l.orraine Restaurant Mr. and Mrs. M. D. MacCool Mrs. John T. Maguire Malavolta Shoe Repairing Mr. and Mrs. Harry O. Malen Marakos Candy Kitchen Margolies’ Men's Shop Katie T. Martin Mr. and Mrs. Charles Mason Mary Mastaippolito Mrs. L ucy Masterson Miss Antoinette Mattia Mr. and Mrs. D. Mattia Mr. and Mrs. J. Mattia A J;ck Mattia, Sr. K and Mrs. N. Mattia, Jr. Miss Theresa Mattia Mazzula Family James McAnnulla Mr. James H. McAnnulla Mr. and Mrs. James McCarter Mr. and Mrs. Paul McCarter Mr. and Mrs. Stanton McCarter Miss Julia McCarthy Sara E. McClain Mr. and Mrs. William A. McClain Mr. and Mrs. Frank McCool Idella McCool Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. McCool Margaret McCool Annabelle McCormick Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. McCormick Mrs. Elizabeth D. McCormick Mr. and Mrs. Frank McCormick Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. McCormick Mr. Joseph P. McCormick, Jr. Miss Mary D. McCormick Mr. and Mrs. William J. McCormick Mr. and Mrs. William J. McCormick Mr. A. E. McCrary James F. McCue Mr. and Mrs. Frank McCusker Mr. and Mrs. Hugh McDevitt Mr. and Mrs. A. B. McFarland Elizabeth McFarland Mr. David McGrogan Miss Jane S. McGrogan Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. McGrogan Mrs. Kathleen McGrogan Mr. Joseph McGuire Mr. and Mrs. Clarence McKay Alice T. McKinley Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth McKnight Miss Lucille McKnight Miss Lillian McMaster Miss Marne McMaster Mrs. Patrick McNally Mr. and Mrs. Harry C. McNamee Anna Meara Miss Helen Meara Marie Meara Mr. and Mrs. Michael Mengea Mr. and Mrs. F. B. Meyer Mrs. Susanna Milhizer R. Grier Miller Mr. and Mrs. Herman Miller Mr. and Mrs. Sara Minniti Miss Florence Minyone Walter S. Mitchell Margaret A. Mobile Mildred C. Mobile Mr. and Mrs. M. Mobile Mr. and Mrs. Sam Mobile 102 THE AGNITA Mr. and Mrs. David S. Monaghan Mr. and Mrs. Bronzo Riccardo Mr. and Mrs. John M. Riley F. B. Moore Mr. Mrs. Joseph Moore Royal Cab Compar, • Francis K. Moran, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ruggiere Mr. Robert Moran Pvt. Anthony Sabctini Miss Frances B. Morgan P.F.C. Joseph F. SabatinT Miss M. Rita Morgan George Jame Subbi Mr. and Mrs. William D. Morgan Theresa’s Beauty Salon Mrs. J. Dewees Mosteller Christian Sanderson’s County Dance Band Mozzani Family Sante's Drug Store, Coatesville Mary Murphy Corps, Nicholas F. and John J. Sapone Mrs. Margaret Murray Dr. O. A. Schneweis Marie V. Musante Mr. and Mrs. George E. Screem Miss Pauline Muzio Mr. and Mrs. R. W. Seiler Sara G. Nesbitt Miss Betty Shaffer New England Cleaners J. Irwin Shaffer Mr. and Mrs. A H. Newman Mrs. J. 1. Shaffer Miss D. FH. Nider Mr. and Mrs. John B. Shay Mrs. Mary A. Nider Miss Catherine A. Sheller FHelen B. Nugent Mrs. Catherine A. Sheller Mr. and Mrs. Frank Oakes Pvt. Charles A. Sheller Miss Sara J. O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Sheller FHelen Marie O’Connell Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Sheller Mr. and Mrs Dennis O’Connor Corp. FHoward F. Sheller Air Cadet Edward F O’Neill Miss Jean M. Sheller Mr. and Mrs. James E. O’Neill Mr. and Mrs. Stephen C. Sheller On Time Cleaners and Dyers Stephen Clyde Sheller Mrs. E. S. Orendorff Pvt. Vincent J. Sheller Mr. and Mrs. Charles Osborne Mr. William J. Sheller Emil Paiardi Mr. and Mrs. Dominic Sicoli Mr. and Mrs. FH. FHurlburt Palmer J. B. Simon Brothers Michael Parasmo Mr. and Mrs. Ashton B. Smith Parisian Cleaners and Dyers Charles Smith Parry’s Cleaners and Dyers Mr. C. E. Smith The Pearl Shop Mr. and Mrs. Ralph G. Smith Nick Pelosi Mr. and Mrs. William B. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Pennell Miss FHelen Marie Snyder Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pesce Mr. and Mrs. FHubert Snyder Mr. and Mrs. John A. Pierce Mr. and Mrs. William P. Snyder Adele A. Pizzi Mr. and Mrs. Robert Spaziani Mrs. Clara Pizzi Speare’s Dress Shop Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Porco Sportoggerv Shop Pusey and Young Bertha G. Stern Quaker Baking Co. Ella M. Sullivan The Quaker Restaurant Mrs. Edith Swords Mr. Joseph Quici T.Sgt. Jane Swords Mr. and Mrs. C. P. Quill Mrs. W. B. Swords Mr. and Mrs. William FH. Quill Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Tavani Mary K. Quinn Miss Clara Tavani Mr. and Mrs. Charles Raub Miss Dora A. Tavani Miss Grace E. Redmond Miss Helen Tavani Reeland’s Frocks de Jour Mr. and Mrs. Henry Tavani Joseph M. Reilly, U.S.M.C. Miss Lena Tavani Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Reilly Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas J. Tavani Lt. Philip J. Reilly Mr. and Mrs. Harold Taylor Mr. Philip J. Reilly Mr. Stephen J. Reilly John 1. Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Taylor Mr. and Mrs. T. Reilly Mr. and Mrs. George A. Temple Mr. and Mrs. Carmen Renzi Pvt. John L. Terrels 103 THE AGNITA Mrs. Mary Terrels Mr. Paul A. Terrels Mr. Frank Terrizzi John J. Testa Audrey Thompson Corp. Robert J. Thompson Mr. and Mrs. William Thompson William Tigue and Family Mr. and Mrs. James A. Treston Mrs. Elizabeth Tuohey Vi’s Beauty Shoppe Michael J. Volpe Mr. and Mrs. Raymond A. Waldron Anna M. Wasson Pvt. Charles Watts, '41 Weaner’s Drug Store FHorace T. Webb West Barber Shop West Chester FHardware Store John E. White Mary L. White Frances E. Williams J. W. Woolworth Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Wright Mr. and Mrs. F. A. Yanni Mrs. Mary E. Yarnall Yarnall’s Garage Pvt. Francis Zaccarelli THE EDITOR'S WAIL Getting out a book is no joke!’’ If we print jokes, people will say we are silly,- If we don t, people will say we are too serious. If we clip things from other books, we are too lazy to write them our- selves,- If we don’t, we are stuck with our own stuff. If we don’t print contributions, people say we don’t appreciate true genius,- If we do, our book is filled with junk. If we make a change in the other fellow’s write-up, we are too critical; If we don’t change it, we are asleep. Like as not someone will say we swiped this from some other book. We did! 104