Kalb writes:
The chef's special of the day was historical pork cutlets from another age. We sat finishing dinner. Balz's golden silk pajamas looked like he's been dunking them in the soup. The mood aboard U-53 was grim.
"With two torpedoes left," Balz said, "No way we'll get 100,000 tons for this patrol. We're a disgrace. The great, magnificent Balz brought down to reality. Down to the level of other Kaleuns--disaster!" He hit the table with his fist.
The officers had to quickly grab their glasses with U-boot cocktail desert to prevent them from spilling.
Balz leaned back and smiled. "Brilliant as I am, I have an idea."
Bernard turned and splattered U-boot desert cocktail all over Gelwitz. "Yes, Captain, an idea?"
"Ja. I can tell the Gestapo to muster out the kids at the orphanages and collect money for a Balz grandiose party. The kids will carry cans with a slot donor can stick money in, but the orphan blighters can't steal." Balz's face lit up like a destroyer's search light. "I knew those kids would be good for something. Maybe I can organize them into a choir."
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