A video accompanying this exhibition shows one such table being prepared, with a hand constantly moving things around until the mise-en-scene is satisfactory.

"It's flattering, if it means they believe I do my homework and come to the table prepared," Ravitch said.

But those reassuring numbers come from flagrantly misleading tables prepared by a highly partisan Congressional staff.

The three breakfasted at the bountiful table, then prepared to depart.

"It is absolutely essential that we go to the table prepared to bargain very quickly."

He was the author of astronomical tables prepared at Perpignan in 1361.

He led them to a table prepared by his security people, where coffee was served, the strong, bitter brew favored in the Middle East.

"We all told him you've got to come to the table prepared," Mr. Barber said.

He spread the "cloth" over the table prepared by his contemporary, the ב"י."

In my mind's eye, I saw myself eating at the table prepared by the Lord.