Manchurian Books

It was a tremendous thirst caused by the dryness of my throat from last
night, and the dust on the Frankfort road this morning. It takes a great
deal of wine to overcome two thirsts. Come along, lads, and drink to the
success of the journey. No hard feeling. Landlord, set out the wine here
for seventeen people, and don't forget us four in addition."
The whole company strolled in under the trees that fronted the tavern,
except Roland, who stood aloof.
"Here's a salute to you, Captain," cried Kurzbold. "I drink wine with
you."
"Not till we return from a successful expedition," said Roland.
"Oh, nonsense!" hiccoughed Kurzbold. "Don't think that your office
places you so high above us that it is _infra dig_. to drink with your
comrades."
To this diatribe Roland made no reply, and the sixteen, seeing the
attitude of their leader, hesitated to raise flagon to lip. The
diplomatic Ebearhard seized a measure of wine and approached Roland.
"Drink with us, Commander," he said aloud; and then in a whisper,
"Greusel and I think you should.


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