The meal was a simple one, but Gervaise enjoyed it thoroughly, for the table was loaded with an abundance of fruits of kinds altogether novel to him, and which he found delicious.
The official in charge of them sat at the head of the table, and the meal was eaten in silence.

After it was over and they had retired to their own rooms discipline was at an end, and they were free to amuse themselves as they liked.

There were many questions to be asked and answered, but his display of strength and skill in the courtyard saved Gervaise from a good deal of the teasing to which a newcomer among a party of boys is always exposed.
He, on his part, learnt that the duties of the pages were very light.
Two only were on duty each day, being in constant attendance on the grand master, and accompanying him wherever he went.

When he dined in public four of them waited on him at table, and one of them performed the duties of taster.

If he returned to the palace after dark, six others lined the staircase with torches.