Moreover he gave notice that he intended to propose that no actual official of the league should be allowed under its by-laws to give anything.

He himself--if they did him the honour to make him president as he had heard it hinted was their intention--would be the first to bow to this rule.

He would efface himself.

He would obliterate himself, content in the interests of all, to give nothing.

He was able to announce similar pledges from his friends, Mr.Boulder, Mr.Furlong, Dr.Boomer, and a number of others.
Quite a storm of applause greeted these remarks by Mr.Fyshe, who flushed with pride as he heard it.
"Now, gentlemen," he went on, "this meeting is open for discussion.
Remember it is quite informal, anyone may speak.