MD3PAD 118-120

[Toby G Levy]

        Mr. Blackner, proprietor of the Moon tavern in which Mason,
Dixon and Maskelyne are meeting, has endorsed Dixon's enthusiasm for
Gothic novels. Maskelyne complains that it is too much free time that
generates unhealthy interests such as bad novels.

        Mr. Blackner makes a pun on the dog star saying "Sirius
business." He brings out a birthday cake for Maskelyne who is disturbed
by the attention. He is not happy to be turning 29 because after that,
the next birthday is 30, a number that can be divided by six others.
Twenty-nine is a prime number.

        Maskelyne steps outside and Dixon takes the opportunity to ask
Mason if he really intends to send Dixon off and leave Mason alone with
Maskelyne for three months. Mason says they can't use Dixon because some
of Maskelynes equipment doesn't work. Dixon intends to ask Maskelyne to
allow him to look at the equipment.

        Maskelyne returns and Mr. Blackner gives them a sampling of his
cock ale, made with the carcasses of dead fighting cocks.

        Maskelyne, studying the duo, asks if there is some lack of trust
between Mason and Dixon.

Toby