Sussex Advertiser - Wednesday 21 February 1866
CUCKFIELD.
Penny Readings.—These highly interesting and popular entertainments has been carried on here during the winter season, a few individuals having joined together to improve themselves and amuse their neighbours by giving, with the kind assistance of a few gentlemen, readings and musical pieces in the School-room, every week.
The Rev. J. Stuchbery presided on Wednesday evening. W. Payne, Esq., (Hatchlands,) read two chapters from an interesting work, describing the experience of two christian young men; Mr. Bray, a tale from "All the Year Round," (1) and the Chairman, "The Well of St. Keyne." (2)
A musical performance by a string band followed, and Mr. S. Willett sang a song written in commemoration of the late Lovell Byass, Esq., “Dame Durden,” (3) (4) - (to commemorate St. Valentine's day): the anthem “Behold How Good and Joyful," was then given by Mr. C. Wretten, Mr. J. Burtenshaw, and Mr. S. Willett.
In the absence of a piano-forte the pieces were accompanied on the violoncello, Mr. J. Napper. The evening passed off very pleasantly, and the whole the performances were much applauded.
(4) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puZFyZJ4VaY rendition of 'Dame Durden'
(5) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ux6w5xa1lhI rendition of 'Behold How Good and Joyful'