noon
The saplings were laid across the top of the pit , thus extemporising over it a huge gridiron . The ox , which was to form the staple of the day 's feast , had been killed and dressed ; and , having been split in halves after the fashion of the barbecue , was laid upon the bars to roast . Proudly presiding over the operation was the major-domo of the planter 's household , assisted by several celebrated cooks of the neighbourhood , and a score of chosen farm-hands , whose strength was ever and anon invoked to turn the beef ; while the _ chef _ ordered a fresh basting , or himself sprinkled the browning surface with the savoury dressing of pepper , salt , and fine herbs , for the composition of which he had attained a grand reputation . The morning wore swiftly on in the observation of these novel manoeuvres ; and with the noon came the guests in numbers from the neighbouring plantations and settlements . Even the determined resistance of the toughest beef must have failed before the hot attack of such an army of live coals , as had lain intrenched in the deep fireplace ; and the tender joints of the enormous _ boeuf roti _ were ready to bear their share in the festivities almost as soon as the invited company . Separated with great cleavers , and laid into white button-wood trays hollowed out for the purpose , they were borne rapidly to the shady nook selected for the dining-place , followed by vast supplies of sweet potatoes , roasted in the ashes , and of rich , golden maize bread . A barrel of rare cider was broached ; while good old-fashioned puddings , and the luscious fruits of the region completed the bill of fare in honour of the day .