|
George MILLIE’s 70th Birthday Part 2 |
|||
|
The Restaurant With
visions of the natural hazards of travelling in
convoy – being separated by other vehicles and traffic lights – I took the
precaution of giving each ‘navigator’ a detailed set of instructions in
regard to the intended route. To
further simplify matters it was decided that only two vehicles be used – I
accompanied Roy and Kay in their car whilst A
composite table for ten was quickly and efficiently assembled and we sat down
to order the drinks and in leisure peruse the menu. As one can see from the bill
(right, with prices removed as a matter of courtesy) our individual tastes
were very varied. Beer served and red and white wine poured we commenced our
repast with three large plates of Bruschetta, Sweet Chilli Bread, and Garlic Baguette, to while away the time until
the main course was served. The
conversation flowed across the table accompanied by much laughter and the
usual banter. There are never any pregnant pauses in our company. The first
two bottles of wine were soon depleted and replacements ordered. Iced water
was also on the table, provided free for those who indulge in living
dangerously. At the
end of the meal a surprise for me – one of the waitresses, with whom I had
been engaging in a jocular exchange, paid me back by bringing in a plate upon
which was a small caramel tart complete with lit sparkler and dollop of
cream, accompanied by a cheerful “Happy birthday”. This immediately prompted
nine voices in discordant unison to belt out a tuneless rendition of “Happy
birthday to you …” much to the dismay and amusement of the other diners. With
one and all now “thoroughly fed up” |
|
||
|
Published: June 2004
|
|||
