The banquet was a noble success; but very trying to the landlord who appeared to be completely upset at having such unusual trade.

Instead of heeding orders for edibles, he would rush into the banqueting hall every few moments and nervously count the empty wine bottles.

The guests yelled at him to hurry; but those bottles were counted several times before anything was set on the table to eat.

Paul remained at Pontedera until morning, simply because he did not wish to reach Pisa until the following mid-day, which was the time appointed.

Consequently it was 8 o'clock in the morning when he resumed the voyage; he was escorted to the river by the same enthusiastic crowds.