Curiosity got the better of them. After the next round, they walked over to the group.
“Excuse me,” said the first retiree, “but why do you just sit here without drinking anything?”
One of the policemen smiled knowingly. “Well, someone has to make sure the drinks are only ten cents. Plus, we like to reminisce about the old days. And… we enjoy seeing new customers get a bargain.”
The retirees nodded in appreciation. “That’s fair,” said another. “We can respect a good watchdog policy.”
Then the bartender added with a twinkle in his eye, “And here’s the best part: if anyone ever tries to scam me or sneak a free drink, these seven gentlemen will make sure it doesn’t happen. It keeps the bar honest… and keeps me laughing.”
The four retirees chuckled, clinking their glasses together. They spent the afternoon sharing stories, drinking the incredible martinis, and occasionally glancing at the seven silent policemen who were keeping watch.
By evening, the old men left with full hearts and empty glasses, promising to return. And as they stepped into the warm Cooktown night, one said, “Best ten cents we ever spent… and the most entertaining bar we’ve ever visited!”
The moral? Sometimes, a bargain, a few martinis, and a group of silent watchers make for the perfect day.