Nana was so furious that she bit Augustine on the wrist.
"Ah! you know," murmured Augustine, "I'll tell your mother that after the veal you asked Victor to kiss you." But all became quiet again as Gervaise and mother Coupeau came in to get the goose.

The guests at the big table were leaning back in their chairs taking a breather.

The men had unbuttoned their waistcoats, the ladies were wiping their faces with their napkins.

The repast was, so to say, interrupted; only one or two persons, unable to keep their jaws still, continued to swallow large mouthfuls of bread, without even knowing that they were doing so.

The others were waiting and allowing their food to settle while waiting for the main course.