Thys is he of whome I spake, he that commeth after me, was before me be cause he was yer than I.

Strangers sat next to one another at two communal tables while waiters set down platters of quzi (lamb shank with almonds and raisins) and masgouf (a whole freshwater fish split open and roasted); friends shared hookahs; and a live band, improbably squeezed into a corner, kept conversation at a playful shout.

Everybody's going to the party.

I had as lieue haue no ſunne, as haue it ſhine faintly, no fire, as a ſmothering fire of ſmall coales, no cloathes, rather then weare linſey wolſey.