He turned to the boatman and said, “That was thirty five hundred, wasn’t it?”
“Yes, my Colonel.”
“I’ll not forget about the over-age jeep engine. Take this and buy your horse some oats.”
The porter, who was taking the bags from Jackson, heard this and laughed.
“No veterinarian will ever fix his horse.”
“She still runs,” the boatman said.
“But she doesn’t win any races,” the porter said. “How are you, my Colonel?”
“I couldn’t be better,” the Colonel said. “How are all the members of the Order?”
“All members are well.”
“Good,” said the Colonel. “I will go in and see the Grand Master.”
“He is waiting for you, my Colonel.”
“Let us not keep him waiting, Jackson,” the Colonel said. “You may proceed to the lobby with this gentleman and tell them to sign me in. See the sergeant gets a room,” he said to the porter. “We’re here for the night only.”
“The Baron Alvarito was here looking for you.”
“I’ll find him at Harry’s.”
“Good, my Colonel.”
“Where is the Grand Master?”
“I’ll find him for you.”
“Tell him I’ll be in the bar.”
