The food we were given was no more than eatable, but the patron was not mean about drink; he allowed us two litres of wine a day each, knowing that if a plongeur is not given two litres he will steal three.

Summary

This quote highlights the conditions and motivations of the plongeurs, who were dishwashers working in restaurants during the early 20th century. The author suggests that the food provided was only edible, indicating the low standard of sustenance offered. However, the patron was lenient in providing two liters of wine per day, recognizing that if they were given less, the plongeurs would resort to stealing more. This quote implies that the plongeurs had a reputation for being resourceful and willing to bend rules in order to satisfy their needs in an environment marked by scarcity and poverty.

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