A. It is now necessary that I should say a few words.
The Court. Say on.
A. We painters take the same license that is permitted to poets and jesters. I have placed these two halberdiers—the one eating, the other drinking—by the staircase, to be supposed ready to perform any duty that may be required of them; it appearing to me quite fitting that the master of such a house, who was rich and great (as I have been told), should have such attendants.
Q. That fellow dressed like a buffoon, with the parrot on his wrist,—for what purpose is he introduced into the canvas?
A. For ornament, as is usually done.
Q. At the table of the Lord whom have you placed?
A. The twelve Apostles.
Q. What is St. Peter doing, who is the first?
A. He is cutting up a lamb, to send to the other end of the table.
Q. What is he doing who is next to him?