"Gentlemen, I give you the health of the King.
"Gentlemen, to a strong and united Britain." And so forth.
But after these stock phrases, suitable for such an occasion, his
words began to take on a more personal tone, which bordered at times
on outright sarcasm.
During the first several toasts, Arthur had worn the air of a
righteous man who would not be pacified. But as their nature and
content became more inflammatory, and their number far exceeded
decorum, he became first agitated, then flushed and quite angry. The
latter speeches of Purceville ran something like this:
"Gentleman, to the health of vibrant leaders." To Arthur, an obvious
slur against his age and recurring angina.
"Gentlemen, to the gallant soldiers who conquer and protect, so that
others may live comfortably from their labors." The Secretary had
never been more than a token officer, nor served in a single campaign.
"Gentlemen, to those with the strength and courage to make their own
way in the world." And so on.
Finally the aged aristocrat stood defiantly, and raised his own cup
high.
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