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The centrepiece, which was coated from rim to rim with froth and

sugar white as snow, counterfeited marvellously well a winter

landscape. In the centre a huge grove of confections showed dark;

on the sides were houses which seemed to form peasant villages

and hamlets of gentry, and which were coated, not with hoar

frost, but with sugary froth; the edges were decorated with

little porcelain figures in Polish costumes: like actors on a

stage, they were evidently representing some striking event;

their gestures were artistically reproduced, the colours were

individual; they lacked only voice-for the rest they seemed to be

alive.

"What is it that they represent?" asked the curious guests;

whereupon the Seneschal, raising his wand, spoke as follows

(meanwhile brandy was being served, in preparation for dinner):-