"'We did not invite you to smoke,' Anastasia Herrera said frigidly.
"'Oh, that's alright, don't apologize, I know you got a lot on your minds.' Van Rijn lit the cigar, leaned back, crossed his leg, and exhaled a blue cloud." (IX, p. 87)
When everyone present has at last accepted that an accommodation must be made:
"'Good, good!' van Rijn beamed. He rubbed his hands. 'How glad I am for common sense and friendliness. I tell you what plans we make together.' He looked around. 'Only I'm terribly thirsty. How about you send out for a few bottles beer.'" (p. 91)
This reminds me of a trade union steward that I knew who was on a serious disciplinary charge - of which he was eventually completely exonerated. Reporting back to his comrades, including me, after one disciplinary hearing, he said, "Then, after the break - and there was a break because I insisted on one for me tea break..."
Always with a touch of humour!
1 comment:
Kaor, Paul!
It helps a lot not only to be in the right but also to be as wily and self confident as Old Nick and that union official!
Ad astra! Sean
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