Harrrington's - being the collected thoughts of the Hon Sec, by way of excuse and explanation.

 Traditions can seem somewhat odd, if not uncalled for, by those who are new to them so, as we will be gathering together for ‘The Naming of the Festivals’ after supper, I feel a word of explanation might avoid unnecessary delays later on.   By time honoured practice, the youngest member of the Club enters the Snug on St Andrew’s day and declares, in a clear and honest tone ‘Happy Holidays!’.   As one, all present must make some startled noise which must have the nature of intelligible words but, on no account be them.   It is them custom for the Captain of the Bridge Team to reply ‘we shall have none of that modern nonsense.   It is and has always been ‘Merry Christmas.   Each word must be audible to all foregathered. The assembled members are required to then make approving noises.   At the this point either the Keeper of the Postage Stamps or the High Walden of the Larks – precedence is given to the man who has been longest in his office...