Our trouble is that we drink too much tea. I see in this the slow revenge of the Orient, which has diverted the Yellow River down our throats.

Summary

This quote suggests that the speaker believes their society is facing a problem because they consume tea excessively. The mention of the "Yellow River" alludes to the influence of Eastern cultures on the Western world. It implies that the East, symbolized by the Orient, is gradually asserting power and dominance over the West through the pervasive consumption of tea. The quote critiques the perceived passivity and submission of Western society to these influences, implying that their excessive tea drinking is indicative of being overwhelmed by Eastern traditions and practices.

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