The Queen's Commissioner arrived, Burgomaster Witschey said grace in Dutch, and dinner proceeded: three stout courses followed by brandy and a speech by the burgomaster.
The burgomaster, with relish rather than resolution, did so immediately.
Where might the burgomaster of Meerane be bound, all resplendent in his uniform of office, at this grey hour of a nipping winter's day? Perhaps off to dine with a dignitary .