The table in the great hall, a masterpiece of workmanship, was made
of a dark Canadian wood then newly introduced, and stretched the
length of the hall. A massive gold epergne of choicest Italian art,
the gift of La Pompadour, stood on the centre of the table. It
represented Bacchus enthroned on a tun of wine, presenting flowing
cups to a dance of fauns and satyrs.
Silver cups of Venetian sculpture and goblets of Bohemian
manufacture sparkled like stars upon the brilliant table, brimming
over with the gold and ruby vintages of France and Spain; or lay
overturned amid pools of wine that ran down upon the velvet carpet.
Dishes of Parmesan cheese, caviare, and other provocatives to thirst
stood upon the table, amid vases of flowers and baskets of the
choicest fruits of the Antilles.
Round this magnificent table sat a score or more of revellers--in
the garb of gentlemen, but all in disorder and soiled with wine;
their countenances were inflamed, their eyes red and fiery, their
tongues loose and loquacious. Here and there a vacant or overturned
chair showed where a guest had fallen in the debauch and been
carried off by the valets, who in gorgeous liveries waited on the
table.
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