DINING-AND DRINKING

Wairarapa Daily Times, 10 May 1932, Page 3

DINING-AND DRINKING

FARMERS’ RULES. The Faversham (Kent) Farmers’ Club was established on 21st Juno, 1727, Avithin a feAV days of the death .of George I. Month by month through 4avo centuries its meetings have been held Avith unfailing regularity on a day in the AA r eek nearest to the full moon. It AA r as contemplated AA'hen the club Avas founded that there should be no more than twelve members, each to entertain the others to dinner at his house once in the twelve months. That limitation of membership Avas not adhered to; there haA’e at times been nearly a score. The old parchment on Avhich were inscribed the articles of the club is carefully preserved in a silver casket. The tAvo leading articles are: — (1) To have but one joint or dish, the same to be on the table exactly at tAvo of the clock. (The object of this modest limitation is supposed to have been to prevent the members vieing Avith one another in. their hospitality). (2) Every person to drink Avhat quantity of liquor he pleases. (This is secured by the practice that a member shall help himself to Avine and shall not be helped by a neighbour). The sixth reads: “All bets and Avagers (except sixpence at cards) laid in the presence of the said club shall be applied for the good of the said club. ’ 5 Records shoAV that the club has not hesitated to expel members who have strayed from the path or rectitude.