On August 21, 1992 an evening of great importance to wargamers and military historians in general, and Seven Years War buffs in particular, took place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The esteemed military historian, Professor Christopher Duffy, was the featured speaker at the first annual Corderlier's Banquet at Mader's Restaurant in Milwaukee. Professor Duffy is the author of numerous books on the period including such titles as Frederick the Great: A Military Life, The Army of Maria Theresa , The Army of Frederick the Great, Russia's Military Way to the West, and The Military Experience in the Age of Reason. He also teaches military studies at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst in England.

Professor Duffy was invited to present a series of lectures at the GENCON convention, courtesy of Todd Fisher and the Emperor's Headquarters and was feted at the above mentioned banquet on Friday night. The banquet was attended by nearly 100 people and we all met for a pleasant conversation and cocktails at 7:30 P.M. By the time dinner was served at 8:30, we were rosy-cheeked and convivial. The meal consisted of three choices, Icelandic cod, saurbraten or scnitzel Esterhazy. All three choices appeared to be tasty and the portions were quite ample. I can vouch for the fish which was delicious.

After the meal, Todd Fisher introduced Professor Duffy, who made a few brief remarks about the nature of his profession. We were enchanted and intrigued by his explanation as to how he became interested in military history. His first exposure to warfare was during his childhood in London at the time of the Blitz, when his house took a direct hit from a German bomb. Fortunately, he and his family were in the basement at the time and they got out all right.

He also described the differences between the three types of historian: amateur, professional and career historian. He explained that the first studies history out of love for the subject with no remunerative expectations. The second is an amateur who becomes fortunate enough to find somebody willing to pay him for his work. The third gets paid to say the right things.

We were all delighted by Professor Duffy's gentle humor and unassuming, congenial style. His remarks were informative and insightful.

The only incident which threatened to mar an otherwise excellent evening occurred when an unknown, misdirected vagabond, too deep into his cups to have a grip on reality, interrupted with an irrelevant question that became the genesis for the title of this article. As Professor Duffy adroitly attempted to return to the subject of 18th Century military history, the clueless heckler began to mumble very loudly to the clear embarrassment of those present.

It became obvious that something must be done, as lightning was beginning to emanate from Todd Fisher's eyes and other individuals were beginning to grab for sharp eating utensils to apply to the inebriate's throat. At this juncture, none other than the inestimable Dean West rose to the occasion, quietly rising, walking over to the defender, and whispering into his ear: "If you don't shut up, I'll kill you."

Clear, direct, and to the point. This admonishment had its intended effect, as no more was heard or seen of this provacateur for the remainder of the evening.

At the conclusion of Professor Duffy's speech, things once again became informal as we broke into small groups for more conversation. Those of us who had brought books written by the Professor queued up for autographs, and Professor Duffy was delighted to sign every book. A few of us remained until midnight, asking Professor Duffy questions about military history, 18th century battlefield tactics and a variety of other interesting topics.

I can't remember when I've had such a wonderful time. The speaker, the company, and the food were terrific, and the Corderliers are off to a smashing good start. All who were responsible should be commended, as well as Mr. West, who, I suggest, be made permanent Sergeant at Arms and First Exalted Lord High Chastiser of the Socially Bereft.

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