Imbolc blessings

Imbolc blessings to you, dear Chalicers!

As winter's chill arms still hold us in her thrall, I plump my cravat in anticipation of the splendid afternoon tea and corn dolly and ornamental broom creation event that Lady Augusta is hosting in her glorious orchid room. I thank the ladies of the newly created Temperance Committee for their tireless efforts in planning what I am sure will be an entirely suitable occasion on which to divine the exit of what has been one of the most bitter winters to date.

We shall be following this with our annual symbolic (and actual) cleaning of the Chapter House, where the children from Lady Augusta's Orphanage for Lost Waifs will follow the cleaning staff about for the day in preparation for their ultimate vocations. I apologise again to all those who are put out by the House's annual closure for the day, however it is done in the spirit of thoroughness and is ultimately in the best interests of our many members who abhor the very sight of children, and most particularly waifs.

For those of you attending the upcoming Lupercalia festivities, which is so kindly being hosted by Miss Finch-Newtley and her inestimable Aunt Philadelphus at their winter retreat in Surrey, I remind you that places are limited, that 'plus one' means just that, and that the RSVP date is done and gone.

It is with sincere regret that these, the first two events that I am overseeing, have been by invitation only, and I am aware that this goes against the spirit of the Club's ethos of veritas unitas caritas, however having now gotten to the bottom of this situation, I shall shortly have matters firmly in hand and soon we shall see vox populi heard!

Vale!

Nigel

From the desk of Nigel Rutherford, Viscount Templemore

Head of the Festivities Committee
Order of the Splendid Chalice (London Chapter)