The occasion, as far as we have been able to gather, was thus:--Whilst
he sat at meat, casting his eyes upon a noble _surloin_ at the lower end
of the table, he cried out--
"Bring hither that _surloin_, sirrah, for 'tis worthy of a more
honourable post, being, as I may say, not _surloin_ but _sirloin_, the
noblest joint of all;" which ridiculous and desperate pun raised the
wisdom and reputation of England's Solomon to the highest.
Great was the stir and preparation for the evening masque; a pageant
containing many allegories and devices; dancing and merry games, with
all other "lawful recreations and honest amusements." Little heed was
given, we fear, to their Maker's service, these vain follies running in
the heads and filling the thoughts of the few who chose to attend in the
chapel; the greater portion were preparing for the entertainment, into
which service they entered heartily, and without grudge.
Sir George Goring and Sir John Finett were verily indefatigable on the
occasion, drilling and marshalling men, women, and children; conning
their lessons, and correcting the awkward and ridiculous movements and
mistakes of their pupils.
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