The Peacock 'At Home:' A Sequel to the Butterfly's Ball

In this light‑hearted sequel to the celebrated Butterfly’s Ball, a proud peacock balks at the modest celebrations of his feathered neighbours. Declaring that no bird should be content to sit quietly while insects throw their own fêtes, he sends carrier‑pigeons with hand‑written invitations for a Valentine‑styled gathering at his own splendid roost. While some birds—such as the shy turtle‑dove or the grieving turkey‑cock—offer polite excuses, a dazzling parade of swallows, egrets and even a dignified cassowary eventually accepts the summons.

The preparations become a riot of colour as a tailor‑bird fashions bright doublets, velvet caps, and silver‑spanged plumages for the guests. Arriving in a kaleidoscope of gowns and glittering tails, the avian party assembles beneath a holly‑bush orchestra that brims with thrushes, linnets and a newly‑freed bull‑finch. The scene sets the stage for a lively contest of pride, music, and good‑natured rivalry, promising listeners a charming mix of rhyme and revelry.