Toby & Cruz
Geoffrey BEVERIDGE
Smashwords Edition
Copyright © 2011 Geoffrey Beveridge
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
The information, views, opinions and visuals expressed in this publication are solely those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the publisher. The publisher disclaims any liabilities or responsibilities whatsoever for any damages, libel or liabilities arising directly or indirectly from the contents of this publication.
A copy of this publication can be found in the National Library of Australia.
Published by Book Pal
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INTRODUCTION
As a child, did you envy adults and couldn't wait to grow "up" so you could have some real fun? Then as an adult, were there times when you reflected upon your youth, and thought they were the best times of my life, and at the same time condemn the generation below you for not following your standards!
None of us get it completely right throughout life, and we are all different as to what we expect, and what we have learnt on the way to so-called maturity. TOBY and CRUZ with their vastly different upbringings, highlight this. The boys also provide a compelling insight into the struggles different cultures face assimilating and adapting to the changing face of Australia.
The idea for this book came to me when I was sitting on a train behind a group of school boys of mixed ethnicity, and obviously two of their teachers. Their topics of conversation were fascinating, and it was enlightening to hear first hand, how the youth of today share some of the "oldies" values, as well as critically evaluating their own peer group! During the forty minute trip, the boys covered just about every subject adults would at a well to do dinner party. It was a real "eye-opener," and in some areas sad.
With this in mind, and in preparing the novel, I spoke with dozens of teenagers from various social standings, cultures and gender.
It was a delight to talk openly with these young adults, and certainly a surprise to hear what the generation behind actually thinks! Common themes surfaced that shocked and fascinated me at the same time.
The book provides a blend of fiction, fact and entertainment that allows any reader to relate to Australia's past and present, and objectively consider their own values in the face of modern day Australia. There is a common thread; a concern if you like, that Australia needs a good overhaul, and that there is one word desperately needed to be reintroduced, and acted upon - respect.
I have tried to make Toby and Cruz, a book for all ages. It is without coarse language, and includes short, interesting factual material, and not too much poetry.
Geoff Beveridge
TO SOME SPECIAL PEOPLE:
My wife Karen for putting up with the journey
My cobber Livie for her encouragement
Mum and Dad for the memories.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
Encyclopedia Britannica
"Old Wal" ~ beekeeper
The National Trust
Various parents, teachers and students.
CHAPTER ONE
________________
"What sorta name's Cruz?" asked Toby, gripping his bone handled penknife with one hand, and nervously scratching the back of his head with the other. "Who'd call a kid that, unless you had something against him?"
"The name has a Portuguese origin, and it means Cross, like the Holy Cross! My parents called me that, and it's a common name in their old country," Cruz replied with some restraint, after all it was Toby's first day at boarding school, and Cruz had the job of looking after him, he knew he had to be nice.
"Where do you come from Toby?"
"Parents own a farm between Wellington and Gilgandra, its called Rabarra, which means place of hidden beauty or something like that. Some aboriginal name dad said, what about you, eh?"
Cruz explained that his parents lived in the best part of Melbourne, and he was sent to boarding school the year before because his father travelled a lot overseas for work. Toby was not really listening, his parents were forced to place him in what he had determined was some form of prison. Due to the unrelenting drought conditions, Toby's parents had no choice but to look for work elsewhere, at least then they would be able to keep their bank reasonably quiet! Ultimately finding work in one of the mines, they were forced to leave the farm for extended periods. Their neighbours, typical country people, happily undertook to keep a close watch on the property, and make sure the garden remained in some order!
It was a lot to accept for an eleven-year-old lad from the bush. Toby blamed his Uncle Robin for providing the money for his school fees, and swore he would soon get out even if this was his first day!
Why me he thought, I could have stayed with the Johnsons in town, or even the Richards! Perhaps not them I s'pose, Mrs. Richards can't cook for nuts, and makes Ian go to church every week! Oh well, at least mum and dad said they'd always take Blackey with them.
Toby's concerns were interrupted when the bell rang for assembly, a special event to welcome all the boarders and new students, even though it was a Saturday. There was a rush of boys in all directions.
"Come on Toby", said Cruz, "I'll take you through the dormitory, then we can cut across number two oval." For a moment, the activity and excitement gave Toby a revised interest in his new surroundings.
"Yeah all right Cruz, I'll beat you there!" Toby had no doubt that he would, as he reckoned Cruz looked as if he'd been in a damn good paddock most of his life.
Toby sat in the assembly hall feeling as if he was waiting for Old Coley, the dentist back home. The muscles in his stomach tightened as he thought of Rabarra, and his dog Blackey. He bowed his head, and held his knife tightly.
Rather tall for his age, Toby was unmistakably from the country. His well-rehearsed gait and rangy frame were immediate giveaways, as was his tan and unkempt forelock that fell freely over his darting blue eyes. The wind up watch his grandfather had given him a few years ago, was another sign of coming from the bush, with its oil soaked faded leather cover; a simple gift that Toby cherished.
He remembered after he was given the watch, how he would hide under the sheets after going to bed, and with the aid of a torch, read and re-read, that the Seiko had 17 jewels. It wasn't long before the watch was dismantled adding to the collection of family clocks, just to see how they worked!
Eventually the Seiko was restored to its original state by a very understanding jeweller in Dubbo, his sons had been guilty of doing exactly the same thing! It was a different story for most of the clocks however, for both families!
The assembly appeared to drag on for hours, as the boys were subjected to welcoming speeches and directions from the Headmaster as to what the School expected from its Junior School pupils: After all you will all be in Senior School very shortly, and….and…..and! Toby was only half listening; he felt all this meant that he really was in some sort of prison! This kid next to me must be thinking the same, thought Toby; as he spent most of his time either looking out the windows or up at the massive timber vaulted ceiling. It turned out that Warwick was also from the country, on a property near Cootamundra. They were to become good mates.
Most of the country boys soon got to know each other, and apart from the odd few that had larger farms and reputations to establish, cemented friendships early.
After assembly, Cruz took Toby, Warwick and two other boys for a walk around the school before lunch, which was strictly at 12.15 Cruz proudly reminded them.
"The bell rings ten minutes before, and you bet Mr. Ford will be looking out for us if we're late!"
After lunch, cricket practise was arranged which Toby was eagerly looking forward to. He was a good fast bowler, having spent many hours pitching at a drum behind the chook pen, much to the occupants' displeasure! Sport was a vital part of life in the country, and a good way to get friends to visit to break the boredom at times that was part of growing up on the land.
"I'm starving," one of the boys exclaimed as they headed for the science block. "Couldn't eat a thing this morning, I was a bit nervous about what goes on here."
"Yeah, tell us about the place Cruz," said Toby. "You've been imprisoned here for a while."
Cruz explained how every day there was a timetable to follow, and that you shouldn't be late for class, or chapel which was held three mornings a week, and twice on Sundays.
"Every two weeks there's a movie in the Gerald hall, but if you're late more than a few times without an excuse, you're banned for a month, then made do dorm duty for a week!"
"What's that about?" asked Kevin, one of the boys who had joined the group after assembly.
"You have to make sure the dormitories are clean, and on Friday afternoon before the truck comes, you've gotta strip all the beds, and put the stuff in bags then take them down the stairs to the back for the trucks to collect."
"Oh yeah, and what do they do if nobody is late, or they can't find anyone to put on dorm duty Cruz?" Kevin retorted immediately.
"They always do," said Cruz, as he continued to paint a bleak picture in the new boys' minds.
"The bloke to watch out for is Mr. Finn; he walks around in a black robe and smokes a pipe leaving a smoke trail like a beast from Hell. He's from the senior school, but comes here sometimes. They say because his family went back to England and didn't return he takes it out on us. Just remember he likes no one, and he's a real old Pommy bastard, they're different you know. Oh, and you have to stand up straight when he walks past."
"God this is going to be great fun, but you made it mate eh?" Warwick added
A fun loving boy, Warwick was always the entertainer at primary school. His parents had sold their property, and were travelling around Australia for a year before moving to Sydney. Once the family settled, he would become a dayboy. This was exciting for Warwick, as he never wanted to be on the farm, although he knew his dad would have wanted him to take over. Many of his mates had left the land to follow the illusions of the big cities, sadly few returned. It was just how it was; no rain, no real support from any Government, and no future. Warwick had often heard his dad complain about the costs of fertilizer and fuel, and that farmers were in the minority and therefore didn't count!
Cruz went on to explain.
"On most days after the last period, there's some sort of compulsory sport organized, depending what team you were in. Anyone not involved could go to the library, or maybe watch TV in the rec. room. But there was always a prefect there supervising, generally a mongrel one!"
"Athletic season is the worst I reckon. I hate athletics, and I'm no good anyway, but they make you do it. Also the cross country, you have to get out of bed when it's freezing, and run about five kilometres before breakfast!"
Toby thought that's nothing, as he reflected on his regular rabbit hunting excursions, when he and Blackey often walked for hours carrying the traps, a tomahawk and his mum's thermos. During the winter as well, before it got light, and with a heavy frost on the ground. Things don't seem so bad when you're having fun, he reminded himself.
"The swimming pool's great," said Kevin, "I saw it on the way to assembly, and they've got a couple of pool tables in the rec. room next door."
Cruz hesitated: "You have to wait until senior school to use them, but we can use the pool. There are some really good swimmers in the school, and we generally come first or second in the Associated Schools' comp!"
"Oh, and it's compulsory to watch the first and seconds if they are playing on the home ground, and don't ever volunteer to be orange boy, as you wait around all day, and there are never any oranges left."
The new science building was a must for the boys to see, so a set of stepping-stones was hurriedly created with milk crates allowing each lad to have a peek through the well secured windows. For the four new boys it was an experience described by Toby as bloody amazing. As you would expect, the sight of tubes, computer screens, and overhead monitors linked to beakers of all shapes and sizes was very new to them. It was one of the best in Sydney, Cruz explained, so he was told.
It was impossible for the boys at their age to appreciate the opportunities in front of them. Toby and Kevin in particular found their new source of learning hard to accept. Kevin's school in Devondale Tasmania only went to primary level, and Toby shared the one classroom with three other classes. These were years of fun, not serious learning!
"So have we got any overseas boarders in our house Cruz?" asked Peter, who had said little up to now.
"Yep a few, there's a bloke from Thailand who keeps to himself mainly because he can't speak English that well, but he's good at math's and science. We call him junket "cause his real names Larket, and he's really fat! He wins a lot of the science competitions, and he's O.K."
"Larket" sniggered Peter. "That's bizarre!"
"It's the name some fortune teller gave him apparently; it's based on the day he was born or something like that."
"There are some Asian kids, in the other houses but they all keep together and just seem to study," Cruz added.
"That rubbish doesn't help you get on in life!" Toby emphasised.
"Bet they can't change a truck tyre, or make a shanghai poor bastards! At the end of the day if you can't look after yourself who will, books can't tell you how to!"
As the boys were heading down the hill to the dining room, the bell sounded. Peter led the charge, as he was the one who had earlier confessed to being hungry. Feeding almost sixty hungry and impatient boys was never easy for the dining staff, yet all seemed to run smoothly most of the time - except today of all days. Toby and Peter found seats at the front table, and the other three were somewhere at the back, so none of the boys really saw what happened in the middle row, when after about five minutes, a violent commotion erupted.
"Give me the jug!" exclaimed a boy called Webb, and as he grabbed the almost full container of milk, it flew in all directions. One lad from another table, who had milk all over his shirt, came over, grabbed Webb by the hair, and then put him in a headlock. Before the incident could escalate, Miss Healy soon had the two boys seated.
"And what was that all about?"
"Aitken's been teasing me all day about my earring." said Webb, "and he wouldn't give me the milk. It's not real, it just sits there, and he wouldn't give me the milk on purpose."
"Bull Webb, you wouldn't pass the butter when I wanted it, and …"
"Miss that's crap, Aitken has been calling me a girl, and said he'd flatten me as girls can't fight."
"You know you aren't allowed to wear any jewellery at school Adam, and you should tell me if there are any problems."
"Yes Miss Healey, but I can…."
"Outside please the three of you! The rest of the room please settle down and finish your meals."
The silence that fell over the dining room remained for some time. Although the boys came back soon after and proceeded to finish their meals with long faces, the incident was soon forgotten. Their punishment was to shake hands and explain to each other how the incident could have been avoided, a clever way to make each boy to feel responsible. Miss Healey was good at that. She reminded the whole room at the end of the meal, that had Mr. Creswell (the junior headmaster), been here when that happened, everyone would have been sent outside and no one would have had any lunch.
Of course, this would not be the case, but the message and how it was said, determined that the dining room became second only to the chapel as a venue for exemplary behaviour!
Miss Healey had been a matron at the school for fifteen years, and was a replacement mum for all the boys. For years after they left, she received cards and letters from former boarders, reflecting on her kindness and understanding during those sensitive years. If it wasn't for her, the school would have lost many a first term boarder, though that was never admitted.
"Do you know this bloke Webb Cruz?" asked Toby.
"Sort of, he was in another house last year, and his parents live somewhere in Canada I think."
"Reckon he's got a temper," said Toby. "He just sort of looks like he'd wear an earring, why would any bloke want to do that anyway?"
"My dad wore one for about a month, then took it out when Mum said tattoos or earrings were a sign he wasn't happy, or was sick or something, made him feel embarrassed I think," added Peter.
"I don't think he's got a bad temper, he's just got a chip on his shoulder, I think he was moved to our house "cause he couldn't get on with most of the boys in Gold House," Cruz explained, as the boys headed to the changing rooms.
"Must be the reason for wanting to wear a stupid earring, don't you reckon?" said Toby.
"But a lot of people do, but not here of course," Cruz replied. "I know my dad would never allow me to wear one ever, or especially get a tattoo."
"Damn girls if you ask me," reinforced Toby.
"Like sheep following each other to a dam: "cause some bloke's got one, they have to, what for, and so what, all bullshit if you ask me! What does any of that rubbish prove that you're tough? What about girls with tattoos, they most likely put make-up on before they go out to look pretty, that's dumb, can't work that one out at all. Like polishing a rusty tractor, won't make it look or go any better!"
The boys had time that morning to choose their beds and unpack their clothes. There was never enough room for clothes and everything else, so a spare locker was a rare find. Laying claim to one was another story, however Cruz knew the trick! He and Toby found one to share, and thanks to their neatly printed sign on the top; USED SICK BAGS ONLY, had unchallenged additional storage for the year.
Getting a comfortable bed was simply good luck, as the horsehair mattresses retained the various shapes of previous residents, no two being the same. There were numerous objections by the boys in the morning, especially from Peter, who promised he would at least be bringing his own pillow next term.
Warwick and Toby readily agreed that they had slept on much worse, and in an attempt to outdo the other, described in colourful detail, various horror stories of overnight stays in shearing quarters with rats and spiders for companions.
After a short time the sports master announced that that anyone playing cricket this term was required at the nets near number one oval in ten minutes. All of Toby's new friends were, so there was a scurry to change shoes and get their whites on in time.
As they headed for the nets, there was a sense of relief from within each boy, an acceptance that maybe this place was kinda O.K. - for the moment anyway. Toby earned an immediate place in the A's, as a fast bowler, while Cruz found a place in the D's with his old team from last year, which suited him just fine. He could spend more time studying, and didn't have to wait around in the heat for the other teams to finish like the B's and C's did.
New boys always enjoyed this first afternoon of sport following their arrival. Those that wanted to play tennis for the school, had the choice to do so, and many new friendships were formed in all arenas. Toby noticed even the boys from the dining room Webb and Aiken, were playing together in the net nearby, Webb without the earring, and Aiken adding the odd compliment to Webb about his batting skills. Adults can learn a lot from the innocence of youth.
Toby reflected on the times when he went over to the neighbours to play cricket with his mates, and the day he got into trouble with his mum, for being late. The conversation was clear in his mind.
Toby, you know you were supposed to be home just after lunch, and it's now half past four, where were you?
Jeez mum, I had a great time at the Woods' place, and Mrs. Wood gave me lunch, and said I could stay there. Grattan had to let his brother have a bat, so we wasted all that time. Listen Toby, you must let me know when your going to be late, and don't blame someone else! But mum, our "phone lines are crossed remember, I couldn't ring you! Also, I was only a couple of miles away; you could have come and got me. I bet dad would have. Toby you know I had Mrs. Sloane coming over with the quinces for afternoon tea, I really can't run after you all the time. Aww, you could've let her wait, and got me. Besides the blackberries have all come out near the lucerne flat, so I went through hell picking some for you, it took ages!
Oh, thank you very much Toby, where are they? I've got to go back and pick them up mum, there were too many to carry.
That was the end of the matter; Toby knew his mum's soft heart would prevail, and the missing blackberries soon forgotten.
Sport can do many things, one of which is to preserve the peace, and it had apparently worked for Webb and Aiken. At the nets however, Toby felt an underlying seriousness that he was there to win at all costs, his school was the best, and he really didn't understand why he was made to feel this way. Perhaps that's just what happens in the cities where sport means big money more than just simple fun, and school was the start of it for many future players. Unfortunately, eager young players often copy what's highlighted on T.V. - the antics, the fights, the sideline performances – much to the detriment of the game, and the name of sport!
When the boys finally met up again at the end of the day, there was little energy or enthusiasm remaining. No one was going to admit that he was as tired as a hibernating bear, and almost as irritable. It had been a challenge in all respects, with each lad setting out to prove his worth, and at the same time, just have fun. There were many sore muscles and sun burnt faces in chapel the next morning, and the hymns suffered as a result.
The school chaplain was well aware how the boys felt, that they were there under sufferance, so a light-hearted sermon was delivered about playing fairly in life.
Mr. Roy was a kindly soul, loved by the boarders especially. He was always there to provide a sympathetic ear and shoulder to a homesick lad, or to anyone who just wanted some home comfort. Often the boys would visit the chaplain's residence for a yarn, where Mrs. Roy would produce a cake or a scone, then wrap up a spare one or two for "Ron." [Later on!]
At the end of the sermon, Mr. Roy called for a show of hands for those interested in joining the choir. Cruz put his hand up with more than a dozen other boys.
"What are you doing Cruz?" whispered Toby.
"Why would you want to do that? Don't you have to come to chapel every week and sing songs and stuff? You're mad mate."
Cruz leaned back into the pew.
"Because you get fifty cents each wedding, and you get to see the girls, what do you call them, yeah the bridesmaids!"
Toby's hand went up immediately, and Peter who had been listening, repeated the fifty cents part, and showed his sudden interest in singing. They were joined by Kevin who said later that he really wanted to put his hand up but was frightened what the others might think of him! When the news spread about the money, and the other side benefits, at least another half dozen boys volunteered. The first day of choir practice however, resulted in a substantial reduction in the number of applicants, mainly because of the diplomatic suggestions made by Mr. Roy and the organist, that certain boys weren't quite ready!
Sunday went quickly for Toby; it was a day of feeling lost one minute, then excited and nervous the next. He knew tomorrow was going to be big. During the afternoon, the boys prepared for the start of the school week. Bags were organised, uniforms made for the ready, and the odd treasure hidden.
One of the challenges Toby always had, was putting on a tie, a problem he had so far never admitted.
"Cruz, where are you mate?" asked Toby. He knew he was around the dorm a few minutes ago.
"You got a minute Cruz."
"Yeah Toby, what's going on?" Cruz could see the tie hanging over Toby's neck, and smiled to himself. Got some trouble there eh?"
"No not really, replied Toby, but do you know how to do those special kinda knots, the whinger knot."
"You mean a Windsor knot," laughed Cruz. "That's easy Toby, my nanny taught me that when we were all in Paris once."
Toby watched carefully as Cruz demonstrated.
"First adjust the tie so the shorter part on the right falls near your belly button, then place the left side fat part over the short one, and turn it clockwise over the short part, and lift it under both parts of the tie, up to where a loop has formed. Then push the fat part through the loop and pull it down with your right thumb and forefinger while holding the skinny part with your left hand. After that, swap hands. Now, with your right hand hold the skinny part, and with the left thumb and forefinger, pull the knot up to your shirt collar."
Toby followed Cruz for at least seven times, and when he finally got very close to an acceptable length, said with pride…
"Here you go Cruz old mate, over the log, up the tree, cover the branches, back down the tree, pull the chain then raise the flag! The best bloody whinger not I've ever done! Umm…what about if you're left handed?"
Both boys laughed, and then threw their ties on the nearest bed. It was a relief for Toby, as he was feeling a little out of place again, and a little sad.
"Hey Cruz, you'll have to tell me about this nanny of yours, we don't have such things in the country, or not really, and what's Paris like?"
As Cruz explained how he often had nannies mind him when he was on holidays, Toby thought this bloke's bloody spoilt, and in many ways Toby was right. Cruz was sheltered from the "outsiders."
It was convenient for Cruz's parents to have someone look after him when they went on holidays, as well as providing an element of control, unnatural by Aussie standards. Boarding school had freed Cruz a little however, he was always conscious of being different. He found it hard to be himself he thought, especially with his father's words of direction echoing in the back of his mind. With the new boys however, he was making a real effort to be one of them.
Kevin had become an expert at catching small lizards that lived within the oval retaining wall. He discovered that if you made a small noose with string at the entrance of their burrows, the unfortunate creatures became entangled when they appeared.
"You can't have the noose too big, or the lizard will just go through it." Kevin explained. "Too small, and you won't catch a thing! What I do, is wrap the noose around my thumb, and add a bit, that usually works. I'll show you."
The three boys looked on with anticipation, as Kevin prepared a lizzy lynch, as he called it. Cruz however, changed his mind, and said that he didn't want anything to do with it, and was going to the library. Sport was cancelled due to heavy rain, so it was a rare Saturday off. Generally the boarders were given free time to study or visit friends, however this was their first term at school, so they were grounded, the expression generally used. The noose was set, and the boys waited.
"Hey, how'd you go with the tests?" asked Kevin.
Toby and Warwick looked at each other and laughed.
"Ya know, I'd never come across that math's stuff before – ever," said Toby. "I did a few questions at the end where they asked how to solve the additions, but that's all. I pretended I was counting sheep, and it all came back to me!"
"It was like the science exam, I just ticked most of the boxes in the middle; you had to have at least one chance out of three, and in the middle you're half way there. English was easy; I just made up a story about working the sheep, and going rabbit hunting with my dog. What did you blokes write about?"
"I did an essay about abalone becoming harder to get because of the change in water currents, and the pollution from the paper mills." Kevin replied.
"How do ya know that's right mate?" asked Warwick
"My uncle goes fishing, and he always tells dad when he comes over about how it's all changing."
"The whole world is changing for the worst I reckon." Warwick added.
"Anyway, made a good story I think. Even if I exaggerated a bit, what did you do Warwick?"
"Nothin" much; just about how computers were going to take over the world one day before we know it, and we won't have to speak to each other."
All the boys agreed, and provided various interpretations about how computers had made things easy in one way, and hard in other ways.
"My dad's got one just so he can find out about the weather," said Toby.
"Can't he just watch that on T.V?" asked Warwick. "I can use one a bit, but my sister is always on it, so what's the point. As I said, I reckon we've lost the art of talking if you ask me, if you want to ask someone how they are, just send an email."
An unfortunate lizard was caught in Kevin's trap. This one was larger than usual, so it was a little hard to handle.
"Wow, look at the blue stripe down its side; it feels all smooth, and it's really strong for its size," Toby said with an air of pride as he passed the struggling creature to Warwick.
"What do you do with these blokes when you get them Kev?"
"I let them go Toby, always do."
Warwick handed the lizard back to Kevin and obviously very relieved, it darted for freedom into the nearest crack in the old sandstone wall.
"Reckon we should have a bet as to who can catch the most," said Toby with a plot in mind. "Whoever catches the most before the lunch bell, wins a prize from the others."
"Yeah, but Kevin's better than us, he'll win all the time," Warwick exclaimed. "He should have a handicap."
After a number of potential prizes were discussed, and who would give what to the winner, there was unanimous excitement to begin the game. Kevin promised to give up his ice-cream at dinner for two Sundays, Warwick promised to lend his pocket warmer for a month in winter, and Toby a ride on his horse one day.
It was agreed that Kevin had a penalty of two lizards, and had to help Warwick and Toby at least twice if they wanted it. After some effort, each of the boys had three or four nooses placed strategically around the wall. Kevin was complaining, as he had spent most of his time fitting out his friends' traps.
"I shouldn't have any penalty, as you blokes have my lynches anyway, that's not fair!"
Just then, Mr. Horsepool appeared; a kindly man who looked after one of the boarding houses in the senior school. He had his suspicions immediately.
"No cricket today boys? The rain has beaten us all."
The three boys stood up immediately, and with their hearts going at a faster pace, attempted to divert the housemaster's attention away from the wall below.
"No sir," said Warwick. "We've got some more time to get used to the school. What's it like up there?" he said, pointing to the senior school buildings.
"There's some big classrooms." said Toby.
"Oh, you'll have a lot of fun, it's like a new world, and you'll be just like new explorers setting out for a new life. So what are you up to then lads?" asked Mr. Horsepool.
Almost in unison, the boys answered with an obvious undertone of stress.
"Not much sir, just hanging around talking really."
"Oh got some nature studies on," said Toby, which might have been the best response after all.
"I've been practicing for choir sir," said Warwick with his head bowed, and hands in his pockets. What made him say that, he would never understand, as he didn't join the choir, and never intended to!
Without warning, a sudden commotion erupted from below as a rather large and frantic lizard struggled to free itself from a trap. An empty lemonade tin clattered down the wall after the desperate creature knocked it from its resting place, and there was a very clear thud now and then when the lizard turned from side to side. It was joined by a further two lizards with the same unmistakable thud, giving the game away. At first, there was no reaction from any of the boys or indeed Mr. Horsepool. Warwick felt he had to at least go and have a look, with the thought that he could decamp from the scene if no one followed. That wasn't to be the case, as the noise increased and the scrambled actions of the lizards caused all parties to peer at the wall. There were three lizards of varying sizes struggling and thrashing as they hung from the tightened nooses.
When Cruz returned, he couldn't find his friends anywhere. They had been in the office with Mr. Horsepool, and their housemaster for over half an hour, explaining their actions of unnecessary cruelty, and inability to own up to the truth!
"But I told you it was a sort of nature study," said Toby with an air of determination. "I just followed the others to see what kind of lizards lived there."
He had always found that it was best to put up a brave front, and never back down in the face of adversity, and his disarming smile was a definite asset. He remembered when he and Billy Iverson were caught with a packet of cigarettes belonging to Bill's dad; there was a very sound explanation. Both boys thought his dad had forgotten them and were on the way to bring them to him! How kind thought Mrs. Iverson, perhaps the boys really didn't know dad was in town playing bowls.
"None of the lizards was hurt, and we always free them sir," Kevin said, in the most innocent way he could.
"I just thought I'd give it a try," Warwick explained, and went on about the choir practise. "I really was just singing some choir songs in my mind, as I thought to myself just this morning, it would be good to join the choir, and help the school out."
The boys left with red faces, and a stern warning from their housemaster that they were required at all times to think of the school first, and if what they were doing was going to help them get on, and finally - what to expect if anything like this happened again!
They could not have known that both masters smiled after the boys left, and agreed that these three lads had various character assets to be proud of, especially Toby who could sound as if he was telling the truth, and look as if he was.
It was often hard for masters to administer any real discipline to the junior boys; they relied upon the exaggerated stories of the students in the years above to create some element of fear. After all, boys will be boys.
Of course, when the boys caught up with Cruz, the tale of their escapade was highly coloured.
"We got over twenty huge lizards out of the wall, before we got caught by Horsey," Kevin explained. "They were going to send us all back home, to expel us from the school, but I reckon they knew that they'd be loosing out."
"I convinced them that we were all going to be vets one day, and we needed the nature training," Toby went on…"It was my idea that saved our bacon I reckon, in the end Horsey and the housemaster felt sorry that they'd even disturbed us, well, sort of."
Sunday after chapel, Cruz found Toby sitting under an old peppercorn tree near the vestry.
"How goes it all Tobes? What are you doing, I'm going to have a hit of tennis if it's not too wet, wanna come down?"
"Um, yeah maybe a bit later, I just thought about some things in chapel, and I want to write them down."
"What?" asked Cruz.
"Well, I like to write what I'm thinking in a poem sometimes. It tells my story in my way. I've always written poems that mean something to me, and probably no one else," said Toby without looking up.
"O.K. Toby, see you later, and if you see Jim Thatcher, tell him I've got his locker key, I found it stuck in a Phantom comic in church; the comic had his name on it."
Toby finished his poem without seeing Thatcher, or anyone. His poem was the only thing of importance.
MISSING HOME
Sent to learn – or just to stay,
Whatever it is, it's another day –
All controlled, told what to do,
It's sort of hard away from you.
Yep, I think of home, and all back there,
And tell myself you really care.
Got a few mates and they're OK,
But I miss my dog, and when we play.
I know I'm here "cause things are tough,
And I'll be home, soon enough;
But just for now it seems all too hard,
And I'd love to be home in my own backyard.
CHAPTER TWO
________________
It was a school tradition for first term boarders to go on a weekend camping trip to the Blue Mountains before the term ended. The idea being to show new students, that boarding school life wasn't that bad, and to allow them to let loose and have fun. After all, the school wanted them to come back!
Following a noisy bus trip that brought no end of frustration for the driver, and the resolution never to complain about retiree outings again, the boys finally arrived. While most took advantage of the bunk accommodation, Toby, Kevin and Peter had no hesitation in choosing to set up camp in the tent area. It was closer to the food hall, and away from the master's hut! Toby promised to himself that he would thank Cruz later for the tip.
The river was a welcome sight, and for most of the afternoon, the boys went swimming in one of the popular water holes below the camp. Toby and Peter didn't take long to find an old truck tyre, and with the aid of a "borrowed" tent rope, made a pretty handy swing. This was an instant hit with all concerned, and Toby felt a sense of pride about it.
"Hey Pete, what do you reckon, great find eh?"
"Sure Toby, I've got a sore stomach from laughing so much. Hey, what about Masters eh, I thought he'd drown when he said that he couldn't swim."
"You should have seen him carry on pretending, and when Andrews pulled him out by the legs, he got the biggest shock."
"My arms are sore mate," replied Toby as the boys headed for the showers. "And I reckon I could eat a whole cow!"
Apart from the odd argument as to whose turn it was, or who pushed whom, it was a time when many of the boys' fears and suspicions were resolved. The outdoors and having simple fun are perfect catalysts for friendships to form, especially in an institution such as boarding school.
There was very little left on any plate that night, and an unusual stillness fell upon the dining room. The fresh air and expended energies at the swimming hole meant there were some very tired and hungry boys. There was one thing they all had learnt from boarding, if you are at all hungry eat what's there as there isn't anything else.
After dinner, part of the tradition was for the boys to form into groups and to tell a funny story, about anything or anyone. It was a good way to end a solid day with no T.V or computers to confuse the issue. When it came to Toby's turn, he had great pleasure relating the time when a man called Jack Spratt caught his mother out badly.
One of the hobbies his father had, which held no interest at all for his mother, was keeping exotic poultry. There were various types of chooks wandering about, including guinea fowl, Chinese whites and even mottled houdans; cared for by his dad, and now and again, by Toby.
Before Toby's story however, and going back a little in time, after his family had settled into the area one of their neighbours, a real practical joker, was always trying to catch Toby's parents out. For example, he once telephoned on a Sunday night, and said to Toby's mum…
"Mrs. Murphy, this is reverent Hudson, I haven't seen you in church lately," which had the desired effect immediately. All the apologies under the sun followed with promises of returning to church as soon as harvest was over, and so on; Sid could not contain himself, and burst into hysterical laughter.
Toby's mother never quite forgave him, and could never get the degree of revenge she sought! That's what made life in the country special; lots of good, clean, simple fun. It was one thing that got farmers and their families through the times of stress when the climate was against them, or the banks!
Toby went on with his story.
"Well dad hadn't said anything to mum about what he was doing when it came to buying chooks, and Mum didn't care."
"Dad often spoke to dealers, and read as much as he could about special chooks. He was really keen on them."
"One day – I wasn't there at the time, but I know how it all went - mum answered the "phone when this bloke called Jack Sprat called and said to her…"
"Mrs. Murphy, it's Jack Sprat here, calling about your husbands Chinese geese."
"Well, mum's immediate response, and she thought she was really clever, was to recite the nursery rhyme."
"Oh yes, Jack Sprat could eat no fat, his wife could eat no lean…! I know that's you Sid you rotten thing, you won't get me this time; you and your Chinese geese."
"Ahem, no it's about the geese your husband ordered Mrs. Murphy, we….." Jack tried to continue, but mum wouldn't give in at all, or hear a word of it.
"Sid get out with you, Tom's not here, and anyway I still haven't….."
"Mrs. Murphy I am Jack Sprat, and I would really be grateful if you would let your husband know we can only send three of the geese he ordered." Mr. Sprat then ended the call abruptly, and mum began to wonder!
"After trying in vain to call Sid back without a reply, she really did think it might have been true. I have never heard my parents laugh as much when mum explained this to dad."
"No doubt he thought you were completely drunk," dad said, "I must tell Sid his humour works without him even knowing."
"Dad got his geese, but it was some lady that called the next time to arrange everything. The name Jack Sprat wasn't mentioned, but I bet the story went around."
These were good times on the farm for Toby, experiences that developed his character, and saved him many times throughout his life. He was able to see the funny side of his own problems, and the odd disaster when it happened, and Toby was to face many in his relatively short life.
The rest of the group all laughed loudly and clapped Toby after his story. He felt good about this, and as he absorbed the friendship and laughter within the group, wondered if Cruz had any funny stories. Cruz was a bit straight after all, and thought of as boring, even tedious by a number of boys when it came to fitting in at the school. However, Toby could see Cruz had some good points even if he was some wog from the city.
One of the boys in the group Alan Eggleston had suffered a broken arm the week before but still went on the trip. Rather than sit around, he made a point of helping out wherever he could. Eggleston didn't say much, but Toby thought he had a lot of guts, and must've grown up the old way – his way.
Alan reminded Toby of his friends back home, and he was shocked to learn that he'd always lived in the city in a unit with his mum. His dad had run off to New Zealand with a car wash attendant without warning when Alan was seven. It was only in the last few years that he'd made an effort to see his only son, and make amends as best he could.
Boarding school was his dad's idea, and Alan who was good at sport, readily agreed knowing his mum was only a few stations away, and he could return as a dayboy if he had to!
On the way back in the bus, Toby thought about Alan, and some of the new friends he'd made, and wrote another poem. He felt that he had learned a lot from them, especially the ones that had done it a lot harder than he had, and ended up at boarding school with very little to look forward to when they left.
GIVE THINGS A GO MATE!
Don't let the team down, and give up on the day,
Keep on fighting as you continue on your way…
No one can say that your pissweak - not a man -
All you gotta do is the best that you can!
Life can be hard during these very early years
And it's only up to you to banish all your fears –
No one will help you change what's inside,
It's all up to you mate - the things that you hide…
Face life as it comes with a big smile now and then,
You'll soon bounce up, and be on the road again;
Life is a theatre – just a stage for the show -
But it sure gets better, when you give things a go!
Arrangements were made for Cruz to go home with Toby for the first two weeks of the holidays. At first, he was excited about visiting the country, however as the time got closer, and as he was packing his case, Cruz began to regret that his parents had to suddenly go overseas just before the term ended. He kept that to himself though, as Toby was proud to be taking him back to Rabarra to show this city kid the bush, and indeed it was Cruz that suggested it!
Although the boys had plenty of time to catch the train to Central, they ran at a pace that caused Cruz to stumble more than once, which made him feel worse. He was missing the comforts he knew he had at home. His PlayStation, his computer games, the good food down the street, and the family friends. Ben's dad was going to take us for a run in his new cruiser as well, thought Cruz. Oh well, I'll be home for the third week! I'll just have to put up with it! It was an attitude that was set to change.
The train trip was an experience Cruz would always remember. He had never been on a country train with its noises, unexpected jolts, and the general lack of comfort; however, he began to love every minute. There was a sense of adventure, a feeling that danger was somewhere around, and yet he was in control. He was an individual at last. He soon forgot about his PlayStation and his other necessities back home, and settled into every moment with excitement.
There were numerous girls on the train heading home as well; the subject of some exaggerated stories by Toby; however, most avoided the boys whenever possible.
Cruz found plenty of excuses to go for a "bit of a walk" throughout the carriages more than was at all necessary.
"Where you going this time Cruz?" asked Toby.
"Not to the dunny again!"
"Na, just want to see where we are and…"
"Yeah right Cruz, you're checking the chicks out. I'm coming to."
The boys tucked their bags on top of their cases, adjusted their clothes and headed for the door, as if on a mission.
There was always a dining car on country trains, and that seemed like the best place to head for. Although both boys had packed lunches before they left, and were far too excited to eat, both agreed it would be just like the only water hole in the desert. All types of animals had to come and visit sometime!
The way to the dining car provided an entrée for their enthusiasm. As the boys passed the odd carriage full of energetic girls, their courage grew. Toby even waved at two, huddled in the corner, and got a giggle from both!
"What did you do that for asked Cruz," sorry that he hadn't!
"You're kidding Cruz; did you see the one near the door, what school did she go to? I'm going back there later. You can come if you want to Cruz," Toby went on to say with an underlying sense of personal achievement.
Toby found a table near the window, bought a can of Mountain Dew, and sat down. Cruz, wanting to appear more "cultured," bought a cup of coffee, which was cold and tasted dreadful.
"Don't drink it all Cruz," said Toby. "Just leave a bit as if you haven't finished, as the bloke at the bar said we'd have to give the table when we do, or buy something else."
"Sure Tobes" said Cruz, and developing a feel for the country, added "This tastes like cow shit!"
"You'll soon know mate when we get home, especially if dad cooks."
Their laughter carried down the corridors. Both boys were in high spirits as they joked about their first term at school. Toby's test results were a little below average, as his housemaster put it, however he did really well in his cricket team, so he thought the other didn't matter anyway.
Cruz on the other hand had sound results in all the tests, yet feared he could have done better, and was conscious that his parents would expect that to be the case.
"Hey Cruz, you should be happy mate! It's only other people that can make you feel any other way, don't compare yourself to others." said Toby. "Be yourself."
"Yeah, but dad and mum expect, well yeah… suppose so Toby, you might be right there." Cruz quickly added.
"What about trigger Montgomery Cruz; he failed in everything but bible studies, and geography! He didn't give a rat's tail about it either," said Toby, with an air of defence for his mate.
The boys agreed it wasn't the time to feel sorry for anyone or anything; they were here to have fun. They were on the lookout! Although the trip would take over six hours, right now they didn't want it to end. Although neither one said anything to the other, both boys felt like they were very special, very special indeed!
Then it happened! Three girls from the carriage next door entered the dining car with an air of importance blended with extreme caution. Having the table nearest the window, and the counter was bloody brilliant thought Toby. It was a plan made in heaven. The girls headed for the counter as the boys lowered their heads, and let their imaginations run wild. This was it!
As the girls debated what to have, Cruz raised his head and gave Toby a nudge. He had caught one of the girls sneaking a quick look their way, followed by an immediate retraction back to the menu! However, that was sufficient for Cruz.
"So, where are you all heading?" Cruz asked in his politest of fashions. There was no immediate reply, so he added.
"We're off to Dubbo, going to Toby's farm, and…."
"Well I live near Dubbo," said one of the girls.
"But I'm only going as far as Orange this time." Catherine Summers was unmistakably from the country, tall and straight with an air of confidence, and a partly freckled nose that suited her flowing black hair. Catherine was the sort of girl you know would be able to ride a horse and help with the lamb marking.
"What err, what um do your parents do?" asked Cruz, as if that was an essential part of any introduction.
"Dad's just sold the farm," said Catherine.
"We're moving to Sydney where mum's got a job with her sister."
"Oh yeah, doing what?" Cruz added.
"Mum's sort of an auditor; she can't get much work in Dubbo, so dad thought we should move closer to the city and the coast."
"What's an auditor?" asked Toby, his confidence having returned.
"Looking at books and financial stuff, auditors can catch people trying to rip the tax system off," responded Catherine.
"I know she even caught some church minister out once."
By now the other girls had ordered, and were standing safely away.
"Come on Catherine," said Jane, "we've got our stuff, hurry up!"
Catherine didn't reply; turning to the portly man behind the counter, she placed an order, and promptly sat down at the boys table. Toby nearly fell off his chair, as did Cruz who started rubbing his leg without any reason to do so!
"What are ya getting?" Toby said hurriedly.
"Cruz said the coffee was really off, and tasted like…." pausing before finishing the sentence.
"Like something horrid from greasy Mick's" exclaimed Catherine. Toby and Catherine had an immediate common interest, and laughed aloud whilst the others looked on. Mick's was their local café, and it had been operating by the same family for over thirty years. As a favourite "quick and easy" eatery, it was the subject of numerous food jokes, mostly undeserved.
Typically, Mick's café had an atmosphere all of its own. Faded lino barely covered the many layers of newspaper that still made mention of the war years. Every booth had a name carved into it, and the variety of cooking smells embedded in the red and white chequered curtains, added an immediate welcome to every patron. Stepping back into history brought memories for all ages, good and bad. Old Mick's was just one of those now scarce places.
The other girls sat down following Catherine's insistence, and an immediate silence fell upon the window table. The moment was conveniently disturbed when the friendly waiter delivered Catherine's apple pie, and ice cream soda to the table, and asked them all if they were enjoying the trip? After all, Wiley had seen all this many times before. He had been on the country trains for years, and although he had been offered the job as stationmaster with better pay and less hours, this was where his heart was. He loved observing the young passengers and their awkwardness at first; cherishing the gifts he would get by many of the kids at the end of their schooling when they joined HIS train for their last train trip home.
He was a friend to all, and often a father to many. Wiley's needs in life were very small. Often sitting down with a lonely young boarder returning to school, he explained that they didn't need brand name football boots, the latest video game, or the friend that everyone had to know. He used to convince them that each person was unique, and lucky in their own right: they could change their thinking, and change their life if they wanted to!
It often worked, especially if the philosophy was accompanied by a surprise pack of mixed sweets. How simple things often worked wonders he thought.