Chapters 16-17 Summary and Analysis

As Chapter 16 begins, the princess has now lain in state for a month. The national mourning continues, with foreigners still forbidden from participation due to the shameful behavior of a few early attendants. Mark Twain is happy to learn, however, that foreigners will be allowed to view the finale performances in the palace yard from the veranda of Dr. Hutchinson's house (The Minister of the Interior).

From his vantage point on the veranda, Mark Twain watches as thousands of natives prepare for the ceremony. For a moment Mr. Harris is mistaken for the King. Here Twain digresses to again share his poor opinion of Harris, relating an event in the legislature whereupon Harris was shown up by a common citizen. Presently a dozen native women begin to gesture and wail as the rite begins.

Mr. Brown is critical of...