ation of the staircase, appears to lead to other
similar small rooms.

In the middle of the cook shop, an iron ring
which can be let down by means of a cord, and to
which large pieces of game are fastened, makes a
sort of chandelier.

The ovens glow in the shadow under the stair-
case. The copper vessels shine. Spits are turn-
ing. Mounted pieces of game form a pyramid.
Hams are hung up here and there. It is the
bustle of early morning. Confusion of bewildered
scullions, huge cooks, and small apprentices.
Caps abundantly trimmed with hen's feathers or
guinea-fowl's wings. Quincunxes of brioches,
villages of pastry, are brought in on sheet-iron
plates and osier stands.

Some tables are covered with cakes and dishes.
Others, surrounded by chairs, are ready for those
wishing to eat and drink. One smaller than
the others, in a corner, is lost under papers.
RAGUENEAU is seated at it writing, when the
curtain rises.

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