He descended slowly to the bar, and informed his master of the extraordinary orders he had received.
The landlord took it for a joke; but on a new summons from the bell, he ascended himself and addressed Colline, for whom he had a certain respect.

Colline explained to him that they wished to see Christmas in at his house, and that he would oblige them by serving what they had asked for.

Momus made no answer, but backed out, twisting his napkin.
For a quarter of an hour he held a consultation with his wife, who, thanks to her liberal education at the St.Denis Convent, fortunately had a weakness for arts and letters, and advised him to serve the supper.
"To be sure," said the landlord, "they may have money for once, by chance." So he told the waiter to take up whatever they asked for, and then plunged into a game of piquet with an old customer.

Fatal imprudence! From ten to twelve the waiter did nothing but run up and downstairs.
Every moment he was asked for something more.

Musette would eat English fashion, and change her fork at every mouthful.