hical and metaphysical argument between M. Colline,
hyperphysical philosopher, and M. Schaunard. To avoid any collision
between the two antagonists, they will both be securely fastened._

_10.--M. Tristan, master of literature, will narrate his early
loves, accompanied on the piano by M. Alexander Schaunard._

_10:30.--Second reading of the essay on the "Abolition of the
penalty of tragedy."_

_11.--Narration of a cassowary hunt by a foreign prince._

_PART II_

_Midnight.--M. Marcel, historical painter, will execute with his
eyes bandaged an impromptu sketch in chalk of the meeting of
Voltaire and Napolean in the Elyssian Fields. M. Rodolphe will also
improvise a parallel between the author of Zaire, and the victor of
Austerlitz._

_12:30.--M. Gustave Colline, in a decent undress, will give an
imitation of the athletic games of the 4th Olympiad._

_1.--Third reading of the essay on the "Abolition of the penalty of
tragedy," and subscription on behalf of tragic authors who will one
day find themselves out of employment._

_2.--Commencement of games and organization of quadrilles to last
until morning._

_6.--Sunrise and final chorus._

_During the whole of entertainment ventilators will be in action._

_N.B. Anyone attempting to read or recite poetry will be summarily
ejected and handed over to the police. The guests are equally
requested not to help themselves to the candle ends._

Two days later, copies of this invitation were circulating among the
lower depths of art and literature, and created a profound sensation.

There were, however, amongst the invited guests, some who cast doubt
upon the splendor of the promises made by the two friends.

"I am very skeptical about it," said one of them. "I have sometimes gone
to Rodolphe's Thursdays in the Rue de la Tour d'Auvergne, when one could
only sit on anything morally, and where all one had to drink was a
little filtered water in eclectic pottery."

"This time," said another, "it is really serious. Marcel has shown me
the program of the fete, and the effect will be magical."

"Will there be any ladies?"

"Yes. Phemie Teinturiere has asked to be queen of the fete and Schaunard
is to bring some ladies of position."

This is in brief the origin of this fete which caused such stupefaction
in the Bohemian wo