The patron saint of the Oude Kerk, Saint Nicolaas, the ‘water saint’, was also very popular, as he protected the sailors and those living on the polders from the dangers of the sea.

literal and downright adorement of cats, lizards, and beetles

Disappointments and sorrows have taught me the vanity of human expectations, quieted the exultings of youthful hope, and cooled the ardour of anxious desire.

As for you, little maiden, I am sorry I cannot buy you all. Unrope my boy, Pug. And look—treat these others well while they are in your hands or it'll be the worse for you.