"May God protect thee," says the new-comer gravely, as though he had never given vent to such a momentous utterance before.
"May God give thee good fortune," answers the other, with equal solemnity; and removing their pipes, they clasp hands and fervently kiss each other. Then the smoking is resumed, and between the puffs the following conversation ensues.
"How art thou?" says the new-comer, gazing with affection at his old comrade.
"Well, thank God," replies the other.
"Thank God."
"And how art thou?"
"Well, thank God."
"Thank God."
Now it is the new-comer's turn for the Montenegrin catechism.
The questions already asked and answered are only the prelude, so to speak, before they settle down to serious business. "Kako ste?" ("How art thou?") is simply as meaningless as "How do you do"; in fact, a mere matter of form.