In conclusion Miss Beale sketched the possibility of an association of old pupils, such as already existed in some boys’ schools, and was not wholly unknown among girls. ‘When I read of meetings of old Etonians, Rugbeians, Marlburians, and of works undertaken by them in common, and know how strong is the tie of affection which binds many of our old pupils to their Alma Mater, I have often wished there were some means of uniting us into an association.’ She named also the uses and aims of such an association. It is needless to say that though its members strive to bear in mind the objects their Principal and President put before them, rules, precisely to embody them, could not be framed. ‘Members should consider themselves united together to help in sustaining, especially in distant countries, as high an intellectual and social standard as possible, first amongst those of their own class. Thus reading societies, mutual improvement societies, libraries, etc., would be helped on by them. They would bear in mind the College motto, “Let no man think or maintain that a man can search too far or be too well studied in the Book of God’s Word, or in the Book of God’s Works; but rather let men endeavour an endless progress and proficiency in both; only let men beware that they apply both to charity and not to grovelling; to use and not to ostentation.”[58] Some articles of their creed would be—(_a_) that influence radiates from a centre, and hence it is a duty all through life to continue one’s own education; (_b_) that the nearer we stand in intellectual and social position, the stronger are our ties to any, and the greater are our duties; (_c_) that the worst thing one can do with any talent one possesses is to bury it. Rules would have to be framed concerning admission.’ Miss Beale added that secretaries to the proposed association had already been appointed: Mrs. Ashley Smith for the general work and organisation, Miss Flora Ker as local secretary. This announcement of her appointment to what proved to be a very strenuous work was the first suggestion that Mrs. Smith received that she should even undertake it. In an article in the next Magazine Miss Beale unfolded her plan more fully, suggesting a few rules. She proposed further that the badge of the association should be a little brooch engraved with a figure of her beloved Britomart.