[MR] Re: Secrecy

[Dave Montuori]

Scripsit Caitlin (mka Rise):
> I've listened to folks from other kingdoms describing how they were able
> to plan for and anticipate their Laurel ceremonies. I don't understand
> the rationale for Atlantia's tradition of secrecy, especially given the
> drawbacks.

With the peerage orders in particular, AEthelmearc has a tradition that I
rather like: the writ. Atlantia has even used this on occasion, though not
by that specific name. Those of us who were at Coronation witnessed one.

A writ is simply this: The gentle is called into Court (usually followed
by the appropriate Order) and instructed to show up at a given FUTURE
event for the actual induction. AEthelmearc is a bit more formal with it
than we are (when wo do it), but that's the only real distinction I've
seen. The "surprise" aspect is preserved in that the presentation of the
WRIT is a surprise, but the actual induction can then be prepared for,
including a particular script if such is desired.

The first writ I ever witnessed in Atlantia was for Dame Winifred about 5
years ago, who was called in at Fall Crown and instructed to show up at
12th Night to give her decision. It has happened sporadically since then.

It has just occurred to me that this could be done for awards other than
peerages too, if the involved parties knew of the preference beforehand
(including the Crown, of course).

As you may have guessed: Personally, in the event that I got tagged for a
peerage -- which isn't very likely and we don't expect it -- that is
what I would prefer for myself. (Apologies to Arlo Guthrie.)

Evan