We had always thought that this; 20 - CMB - 11, chalked above the doors at Epiphany by the three kings, stood for the year and the initials of Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. It actually represents the Latin words Christus Mansionem Benedicat, and is a blessing upon the house. Caspar did the rounds with two other kings and a star, singing a blessing song and chalking this sign above the door of each house. They raised money for charity and came back with a huge bag of treats. For authenticity Balthasar was blacked up for the part. Caspar played Caspar which caused no end of confusion when the house owners wanted to know the names of the children who had sung so sweetly.
