82. Elegantly Wasted

If you’re going to get wasted, get wasted elegantly
Keith Richards

Francis had spent the evening single-handedly propping up the bar, figuratively and – in must be said – financially.

Now, in recognition of his sterling efforts, the bar was returning the favour and kindly propping him up.

“I think you might have had enough, sir. Might be time for you to head home?” said the landlord.

Francis tried to fix him with a level gaze, which was not easy given the slight sway that the bar seemed to have acquired.

"Enough?" he asked. "Dear boy, I'm only just beginning."

He finished his drink. "One for the road?"