Eton's Purpose

Last week London's Lord Mayor Sir Kynaston Studd dined exceedingly well. Among his guests were Viscount Byng of Vimy and Thorpe-le-Soken, Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, Viscount Lascelles, Lord Chancellor Baron Hailsham. Also present was Dr. Montague Rhodes James, Provost of Eton, author of many a learned treatise and many a tingling ghost story. All the guests were Eton graduates. Provost James offered the famed toast, Floreat Etonia. Then, pridefully eyeing the company, he added: "Gentlemen, the purpose of Eton is to produce old Etonians."*

*Not to be confused with "The Old Etonian," potent cocktail served at London's Hotel Metropole.