“Very well, then,” he said. “Bombest, I’d like to rent your restaurant and kitchen for a full day … shall we say, day after tomorrow? Sergeant Escrima will require it to prepare the food for our company. “
“My kitchen?” the hotel chef shrieked. “You cannot-“
Sensing disaster, the hotel manager broke in. “I’m afraid, sir, the cost would be-“
“Five thousand dollars should cover it,” the commander finished. “Of course, we’ll provide our own supplies. The current kitchen help can have the day off, with pay, except …”
He turned to address the chef directly.
“You, sir. I shall personally pay you double for your normal day’s wage, if and only if you are present in the kitchen for the entire day to sit and quietly observe how our mess sergeant conducts himself with food. You are also invited to join us for dinner, at which time you will be given an opportunity to tender your apology to Sergeant Escrima … if you feel he deserves it. Agreed?”
The chef opened and shut his mouth several times before nodding his silent consent.
“All right, then, Sergeant Escrima, make a list of the Legionnaires you want to assist you in the kitchen and give it to Brandy. C.H.!”
He didn’t even have to raise his voice this time, as the supply sergeant had been loitering nearby throughout the entire exchange.
“Yes, Captain?”
“You’re excused from normal duty tomorrow. Get a list from Sergeant Escrima as to what he needs in the way of supplies and get him whatever he asks for … top of the line. Got it?”
“Got it. Umm … Captain?” Harry dropped his voice and leaned close to the commander. “Are you sure you want to do this? Truth to tell, our chow ain’t been all that good.”