"The noble lady who sits opposite is Queen Pest, and our Serene Consort. The other exalted personages whom you behold are all of our family, and wear the insignia of the blood royal under the respective titles of 'His Grace the Arch Duke Pest-Iferous'--'His Grace the Duke Pest-Ilential'--'His Grace the Duke Tem-Pest'--and 'Her Serene Highness the Arch Duchess Ana-Pest.' "As regards"--continued he--"your demand of the business upon which we sit here in council, we might be pardoned for replying that it concerns and concerns _alone_ our own private and regal interest, and is in no manner important to any other than ourself. But in consideration of those rights to which as guests and strangers you may feel yourselves entitled, we will furthermore explain that we are here this night, prepared by deep research and accurate investigation, to examine, analyze, and thoroughly determine the indefinable spirit--the incomprehensible qualities and nare of those inestimable treasures of the palate, the wines, ales, and liqueurs of this goodly Metropolis: by so doing to advance not more our own designs than the true welfare of that unearthly sovereign whose reign is over us all--whose dominions are unlimited--and whose name is 'Death.'" "Whose name is Davy Jones!"--ejaculated Tarpaulin, helping the lady by his side to a scull of liqueur, and pouring out a second for himself. "Profane varlet!"--said the president, now turning his attention to the worthy Hugh--"profane and execrable wretch!--we have said, that in consideration of those rights which, even in thy filthy person, we feel no inclination to violate, we have condescended to make reply to your rude and unseasonable inquiries. We, nevertheless, for your unhallowed intrusion upon our councils, believe it our duty to mulct you and your companion in each a gallon of Black Strap--having drank which to the prosperity of our kingdom--at a single draught--and upon your bended knees--you shall be forthwith free either to proceed upon your way, or remain and be admitted to the privileges of our table according to your respective and individual pleasures."