On Friday, 7th April, the Staff met at lunch to say farewell to Mr Turner. The Rector presided, and, in addition to the whole Staff, there were present Miss Turner and Miss MacLaren.

In his speech the Rector [W King Gillies, M.A., B.A. (Oxon.), LL.D., F.R.S.E.] referred to the esteem in which Mr Turner was held by his pupils, an esteem which was built on the sound foundation of good teaching. He mentioned his personal indebtedness to Mr Turner and, expressing his profound gratitude for thirteen years' assistance, said that Mr Turner's wise and dispassionate judgment on affairs had been a source of comfort and assurance. To all his colleagues Mr Turner had been a valued friend, the younger members of the Staff in particular finding in him a kind and considerate adviser. The Rector congratulated Mr Turner on entering on his retirement after such long and distinguished service, and expressed his pleasure in handing over to him a pair of field-glasses and several books as a token of affection and esteem from his colleagues, who might fairly claim to represent the High School Masters and Mistresses of the last forty years.

Mr Turner in reply said that the occasion marked the end of a long story, not very exciting, but pleasant, and might also be the beginning of another, perhaps shorter one, but one which, if good wishes counted, would be happy. Forty years ago he had found his career determined by force of circumstances, but he had never regretted that kindly fate had made him a teacher and had decreed work in the Royal High School. The profession of teaching had its drawbacks - the work was more strenuous than credit was given for - but whether teachers received honest abuse or doubtful compliments, there was no doubt that their work was useful, important, and well worth doing for its own sake. It was no small thing to belong to such a School as the High School. He had found that the School was unique in some puzzling way. Perhaps it was the beauty of the building. As the late Dr Marshall had said, "I think it must be the spirit of the School, moulding by her gentle influence all her children, masters and boys, unto her own image." It would be a sad day if that gentle spirit were lost, driven away by neglect or indifference. To his colleagues his debt was a long one, and he wished to express his thanks for their kindness, not only for presenting him with such handsome gifts, but for so many years of forbearance and good fellowship. He often wondered how far good wishes helped to bring about their own fulfilment. He thought they did, and felt sure that the good wishes expressed that day would bring years of happiness to all.