There was an awkward silence, which the Count, consummately gracious host that he was, alleviated forthwith by showing the company his paintings.
"I recognise this!" said De Brie, indicating a painting by Hobbita of Luthienne performing an exotic dance for Béren's delight. "This painting was proposed for the Musée de la Maison-Mathon, which, however, refused to buy it."
"Why that?" said Château-Renard, who was admiring Richard Van Dycke's painting of a chicken coop.
"You are charming, you," said De Brie. "Because the government is not rich enough."
At this moment, the Roi des Sorciers announced the Marquis Entelletto Pseudonimo, Castellan of Castel Gandolfo, and the Viscount Andurillo Pseudonimo. The Marquis Pseudonimo was still a bit leafy, but had dispensed with the wreath and sported a satin collar. Andurillo looked slightly greener than before, as he had taken pains to look as ent-like as possible; he smiled charmingly at Éowénie and inquired, "How much money per annum does your father make?" Éowénie said nothing, but looked even more bored than before.
"Pseudonimo!" said Morrie. "A fine name!"
"Yes, these Ents name themselves well, but dress poorly," said Château-Renard.
"Indeed, foxes are celebrated for their haute couture," sallied De Brie.
