CONSTITUTION

Les Boulevardiers is dedicated to following the spirit and example of our patron of honour, Monsieur Aubelin Jolicoeur. Associes are encouraged to be dapper, yet ostentatious, to exhibit an interest in fine art and poetry, and to cultivate an appreciation for, and an indulgence in, friendly intercourse. They should be fluent in more than one language, and understand the value of newspapers from other countries and in other languages. Reunions are convened with a 'Call to Arms' as often as necessary. Associes should take it in turn to host, while each associe present should contribute to the evening. Reunions must exhibit a true Epicurean spirit, including good friends, good food, good drink, and good conversation, in no particular order. All are welcomed to bring newspaper clippings, recipes, books, articles of interest, music, or anything else they wish to share with the group, in addition to any tinctures they wish to imbibe. Fellowship is open to anyone who aspires to become a boulevardier. To attain true boulevardier status, one should be bilingual, know at least a few words of Creole, have read Graham Greene's The Comedians, and host one reunion. Reunions may follow any format, with certain particulars essential. For the duration, the host's residence is understood to be sovereign territory of the Grand Hotel Oloffson in Port-au-Prince, with the dining table as bar of said hotel. Seasonal adjustment permits designation of the patio as the terrasse, should weather permit gathering outdoors. The host is mandated as Monsieur Jolicoeur's personal agent, with the designated title Deputy Information Minister & Toastmaster. A quorum of four is suggested, while toasts include the obligatory to Monsieur Jolicoeur, and may extend to associes present or absent, the Republic of Haiti, Mr. Greene, and anyone else so desired. Mandatory trappings include a portrait of Monsieur Jolicoeur, the flag of Haiti, a copy of Le Nouvelliste, a copy of The Comedians, and a silver-tipped cane. In deference to Monsieur Jolicoeur's culinary heritage, the menu could include a Creole dish.

  Author's note: although the text of the Constitution may seem mildly pretentious, I have endeavoured to 'elaborate with a flourish', trusting that Monsieur Jolicoeur would undoubtedly approve.