I take point 2 on board. I think that's where they got hung up.
I mentioned that I was using the new() function as a sort of short-hand to set up what properties that I might use for a simple example.
but -- in the real world -- you'd nearly always have a separate init() function (or similair). I know I would, in most cases.
but -- using $proto clearly stuck in the chap's craw. And you're always fighting a losing battle in that case, aren't you....?