|
Chapter 49 Even a seasoned traveler like Bruce wasn't ready for Sarlat. Little was known about it by most travelers until recently when new roads allowed easy access. The old town was divided by Rue De La Republique that cut the town in two in the 19th century. It was referred to as La Traverse. As you walked north the left side was filled with residences on very narrow streets and the occasional restaurant. The main area was to the right and sat on either side of the Rue De La Liberte and the large Place. The town had the highest concentration of medieval renaissance buildings than any other city in France. The sand colored facades drew ones attention. Having been loyal to the king during the Hundred years War, Sarlat had a privileged status. In a word, it was beautiful. They walked around the main square and looked into the shop windows. Here one could buy the best truffles, pate de foie, walnut oil, marzipan loafs with different colors and an aperitif called Quercy Noix made from the nuts of the region. They sat in the main square while a troupe of traveling gypsies entertained with music. Bruce felt as though he had gone back hundreds of years. The beer was local, cold and refreshing. The music was loud and almost primitive but it was fun to watch the unwashed children dancing to the rhythm of tambourines. They later walked past some of the 16th and 17th century mansions on Rue des Consuls, built for middle class merchants, magistrates and church officials. At the top of Rue Fenelon they entered the Presidial Restaurant. They were greeted like royalty by the corpulent owner, Monsieur Sajac.
(They walked down a street toward the Presidial Restaurant) He clasped his hands in front of his chest and said, "This is my lucky day. When I awoke this morning, I knew something special was about to happen. Now I know I was destined to see you again my dear friends." They shook hands warmly and introduced Bruce as a friend. After a few minutes of small talk they reserved space for five people for a sophisticated nine o'clock. We will be joined by Mademoiselle Francheville and Monsieur Denis from Dromme. The jolly Mr. Sajac was pleased. "It will be like a reunion. I will have our special goose made just the way you like it. I'll make the gizzards too, in walnut oil and raspberry vinegar. And for monsieur I'll prepare escargot stuffed with duck comfit." It was settled and as they walked out of the building that had once been the Ministry of Justice, Constantin explained that before the war, Mr. Sajac had lived in Hautefort and had been their father's closest friend. They often rode together in 'leaner' days. Bruce smiled and made another note. The French, he thought had a certain humor. Outside, he turned and looked at the unusual building that had once been used to dispense Royal Justice. Now it was the meeting place of the connoisseurs of great sarladaise food. (Click here for Chapter 50)
| ||
 |
