"Now, we want a motto," said Gordon; "something that will express, in few words, the objects of the society."
"I don't happen to know what the objects of the society are," replied Haven; "but I suggest, 'Honi soit qui mal y pense.'"
"The Queen of England has a mortgage on that motto," said Paul. "Semper paratus will be better."
"What does it mean?" asked a student.
"Some praties," replied a wag.
"Let us have a motto in plain English, and one that has not been used by all the engine companies in the United States," added Haven.
"Semper paratus is good, I think," persisted Paul. "Always ready to answer the boatswain's call, and always ready to do our duty."
"But it is worn out," protested Haven. "I move you we invite the Grand Protectress to give us a motto."
The motion was carried, and the same committee appointed to make the request. Paul led the way to Grace again, who was still highly amused at the grand honor which had been conferred upon her.
"The Order of the Faithful instructs me humbly to petition the Grand Protectress for a motto suitable to the needs, and expressive of the objects, of the association," said Paul.