The chief sommelier's request

Suggestions from the sommelier were rare. The ladies knew their cigars and wines quite well. But there was a new waiter. The ladies expected prompt service, as always, but the approach needed to be different today.

He seemed more than acceptable. He looked great in a vest and bow tie. He had been taught the proper amount of flattery for top patrons, not too much or too little. But the chief sommelier had to make sure he had not just the moves but the touch as well.

How would he react when they pointed out a small mistake? Or a mistake that wasn't a mistake? Would he be properly interested in them? Would he respond well to questions about himself without rattling on?

All this added to the atmosphere. Overbearing clients and employees were not tolerated. But there was a certain order to it all. Even if he was not a perfect fit, he would do very well in other less prestigious establishments.

He passed with flying colors, though the chief sommelier downplayed how well he did.