“Ach, yes, I love to study the animals. I have a library—a small one, here. You must see it.”
“Thank you.”
“You were studying the animals’ ways and how d’you call it?—das Volkskündliches—in Wongolo?”
“Yes. I do nothing else.”
“So?” Bakunjala arrived with fresh glasses and vermouth. “Which do you prefer, French or Italian, Herr Professor?”
“French, please.”
“You will dine with me, please?”
“That is very kind of you, Lieutenant.” Birnier gazed quizzically, rather amused at the complete change of manner. Quite charming when he likes, he reflected.
“From what part do you come, Herr Professor?” inquired zu Pfeiffer as he set down his glass.
“Oh, I’m a Southerner. Louisiana. My name is French, you know.”