... here's another spin ... from the Philly Inquirer, inter alia:
... makes more sense than the 'burnt toast' theory ...
Toasting's origins are shrouded by the proverbial mists of antiquity. Ancient Greeks and Romans hoisted their chalices to ward off divine hissy fits and pay tribute to egomaniacal emperors. Early Christians were wont to clink glasses to keep Satan at bay.
... makes more sense than the 'burnt toast' theory ...