Mr. Bullmore, the tall, hefty, formidable man was the Proprietor, Principal and Teacher of the School. 'Bullmore's School' was always the 'first and best' when it came to a choice of schools. My first day at school was filled with sweets, toys and nursery rhymes. It was a day of colour, a day of new found love. Mrs. Bullmore was always there to keep the show going with her affected, maternal ways. The initial excitement wore off as the days passed. I was gradually initiated into the world of alphabets and numbers. My tiny hands fondly held the black slate on which the strange markings appeared and disappeared. I was fascinated beyond measure with my first slate, so fragile yet strong. This 'Black Beauty' was my treasure, my 'First Love'. I had committed myself to something greater than my little hands could contain. It was to last a life- time and there was no turning back……..