The Emperor's table was laid in one of the lower rooms of the Golden Cross.

The orchestra and the boy choir had been stationed in Saint Leonhard's chapel.

A wide door led from the consecrated chamber, spanned by a vaulted roof, into the dining-room.

When it was opened, the music and singing would pour in a full flood to those seated around the board.
Shortly before midnight everything in kitchen and cellar was ready for the royal couple.

The wax candles and lamps were already lighted when Queen Mary prepared to bring her imperial brother to the surprise which she had planned, and whose influence she eagerly anticipated.
The Emperor had received the last report half an hour before, and then commissioned his physician, who had again warned him against the excess of work, to protect him from interruption--he desired to have an hour alone.
Dr.Mathys had fulfilled this order with the utmost strictness.