"There are many examples," Holland said, reseating himself. "For
instance, the medieval feudalistic class who dominated the ignorant
and highly superstitious serfdom soon found it expedient to add to
their titles _by grace of God_, as though it was God's wish that they
be count or baron, prince or king. What serf would dare attempt the
overthrow of his lord, in the face of God's wishes?"
"I see," Balt Haer said. "And other examples?"
Holland shrugged. "The Chinese Mandarins utilized possibly the most
unique method of a governing class perpetuating itself ever known,
certainly one of the most gentle."
Haer was scowling at him, obviously out of his depth, as was Joe
Mauser for that matter.
Holland said crisply, "The mandarins devised a written language so
complicated that it took at least ten years to master reading and
writing, thus assuring that only the very well-to-do could afford to
educate their sons. When invaded, as so often China has been invaded,
only the mandarins were in the position to serve the conquerors by
carrying on the paperwork so vital to any advanced society. So, still
in control of the machinery of government, they continued to
perpetuate themselves, and shortly--as history is reckoned--we found
the conquerors assimilated and the mandarins still in power."
Balt Haer said impatiently, "I seem to be under the impression that
you were speaking of more current times, when I entered, Mr. Holland."
From the door, Nadine said, "Good heavens, Balt, are you badgering my
guests again?"
The three men faced her.
Balt said nastily, "I am astonished that you persist in bringing
members of the lower orders into my home, Nadine."
"Our home, Balt. In fact, if you must bring up such matters before
outsiders, you will recall that you converted your portion of the
family estate into continental Hovercraft stock, shortly before father
met Baron Zwerdling's forces in the recent fracas. No wonder you
dislike Major Mauser. Through his efforts, our company won, rather
than losing as you had expected."
Her brother, who could have been only slightly her senior, was
obviously enraged. "Are you suggesting that I am not welcome to stay
in this, our family home, simply because the property is in your
name?"
"Not at all," she sighed. "You are always at home here, Balt, I simply
demand that you exercise common courtesy to my guests."
He turned and walked stiff kneed from the room.
* * * * *
"Sorry," Joe said to Nadine.
"Why?" she said simply. "The fact of the matter is that Balt and I are
continually at each other. He is quite the active member of the Nathan
Hale society."
Joe frowned his ignorance and looked at Holland.
Holland chuckled. "An ultra-conservative--reactionary might be the
better term--organization devoted to witch hunting and such in its
efforts to maintain the _status quo_, major. Once again, history
repeats itself. Such groups invariably evolve when basic change
threatens a socio-economic system." He looked at Nadine. "I must be
going, my dear. My, how charming you look. If this is the customary
garb whilst going a-gliding, I shall have to take up the sport."
"Why Phil, inane words of flattery from serious old you?"
Joe squirmed inwardly, wondering again upon what basis was the
friendship of Nadine Haer and Philip Holland.