Dinah has an accustomed spot on this table - right at the very end, nearest the staff table, facing the rest of the hall so she can watch goings-on at other tables.

The reason for her choice is very clear - so someone who brings her own chair and not sit on the long benche at the table - can still sit next to her best friend.

Also it gives Dinah the chance to see most of the hall and to be with as many of her friends as possible. It's been a tiring few weeks; she plans to enjoy tonight.