What is an occasional table the rest of the time?
The rest of the time it has its choice–a bed, chair, and so forth. Actually, “occasional” refers to the table’s versatility–it can be adapted to various functions (buffet, sideboy, etc.) according to the occasion one uses it for. Alternatively, it could be an awkward piece, rather like the dotty Victorian aunt tucked away in the attic and kept from One’s Intended until the last chapters in the novel, that gets dragged out for special occasions such as weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, and coronations of the Pope. And sometimes the Wife can drag it out and create an Evil Omen, such as her husband saying, “Uh! Your mother visiting again?” (Sweetly): ” Why whatever do you mean, dear?” “It’s the table. It makes me want to go hunting, and even tadpoles aren’t in season.” I hope I’ve both answered your question and made you laugh. If I did, go to my avatar; at my age I’d BETTER make someone laugh.
