The Simple Simons have determined to give a dinner to their friends in honor of the birthday of the Madam. They call their chef who, just as he is on the point of presenting himself to them, is headed off by Mephisto, who has come to make a brief tour of the earth and to amuse himself at the expense of mortals, Mephisto appears to Mr. and Mrs. Simple Simon disguised as the cook: he receives their orders. Then he rapidly withdraws from an inexhaustible basket the table, the cloth, the napkins. all the service, and even all the chairs necessary for the guests. The latter arrive and joyously seat themselves around the magnificently appointed table: but, at the moment when they begin to cat, everything disappears in the midst of flames. The guests, amazed at this spectacle, rush off, followed by Mr. and Mrs. Simple Simon, who are at a loss to account for such an exhibition.
