Manchurian Books

And now, landlord, set forth the best meal you can provide, with a
double quantity of wine."
"For yourself, sir?"
"For all, landlord. What else? The lads have had no supper, I'll
warrant."
"A little black bread has gone the rounds."
"All the more reason that we should have a huge pasty, steaming hot, or
two or three of them if necessary. And your best wine, landlord. That
from the Rheingau."
But the landlord demurred.
"A meal for yourself, sir, as leader, I could venture upon, but feeding
a score of hungry men is a different matter. Remember, sir, I have not
seen the color of their silver for many a long day, and, since these
evil times have set in, I am a poor man."
"Sordid silver? Out upon silver! unless it is some silvery fish from the
river, fresh and firm; and that's a good idea. We will begin with fish
while you prepare the meat. 'Tis gold I deal with to-night, and most of
it is for your pouch. Run your hand in here and enjoy the thrill," and
Roland held open the mouth of the bag which contained his treasure.


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