Established in Perpetuity
✦ OMNES CHANDLERII SVMVS ✦
We are all Chandlers.
Let it be known throughout all lands, surnames, and ages that the name Chandler is, and has always been, royal. The word itself descends from the old craft of the chandler — the maker of candles, the bringer of light. To bear it is not to hold a title but to be the light by which lesser rooms are seen.
The Chandler does not pursue a crown. The crown pursues the Chandler. To the unfortunately-surnamed of the world we extend not pity but invitation: you, too, may aspire to the light. Few arrive. None regret the attempt.
At the head of the House sits His Radiance Will Chandler, First of His Name, the Original Flame, Keeper of the Wick, Warden of the Wax, by whose surname all others are measured and, regrettably, found wanting.
We are all Chandlers. Some merely have not been informed yet.
The Chandler carries light into every room and takes the best seat upon arrival. This is custom, not rudeness.
To meet a Chandler is to want to be one. This is not vanity. It is gravity.
The surname may be acquired by birth, by marriage, or by sustained excellence. It cannot be acquired by wishing, though the records show many have tried.
There exists no office higher than Chandler. Several kings have applied. No record of their acceptance survives.
† Will Chandler. The figure is not expected to change.
The House does not refuse the hopeful. Pledge your fealty, and the Council will assess your claim to the light.
The name is not given lightly. The name is, however, given. Complete the petition and the Office of the Wick will adjudicate in due course.
The House may, at its sole and unquestionable discretion, raise a worthy soul to knighthood. Enter a name. Lower the shoulders. Receive the blade.
Rise. Or remain seated — the anthem reaches all the same.
Arise, ye lesser-surnamed throng,
and lift your eyes toward the light;
one House has held the flame so long —
the House of Chandler, ever bright.
We are all Chandlers! (some don’t know)
the wick eternal, the steady glow;
long may he reign, the Original Flame —
Will Chandler, first and finest name.