The banquet was long; there were all sorts of nice things to eat, and everybody seemed to eat and drink a good deal.

Everyone lay on cushions and couches, ladies on one side and gentlemen on the other; and after the eating was done each lady went and sat by some gentleman, who seemed to be her sweetheart or her husband, for they were very affectionate to each other.

The Court dresses had gold threads woven in them, very bright and beautiful.
The middle of the room was left clear, and different people came and did amusing things.

There were conjurers and jugglers and snake-charmers, which last Anthea did not like at all.
When it got dark torches were lighted.

Cedar splinters dipped in oil blazed in copper dishes set high on poles.
Then there was a dancer, who hardly danced at all, only just struck attitudes.