It was Mardi Gras time in New Orleans and having a few days off, Napoleon Solo dragged his partner there to experience a bit of  Americana and Louisiana tradition.

“I do not understand, you Americans have so many obscure holidays, Groundhog Day, National Anthem Day, Johnny Appleseed Day,  Liberty Day, Maple Syrup Saturday but mind you, is nowhere near National Pancake Day and neither is close to National Maple Syrup Day.”

“Not to mention New Year's Day, Chinese New Year,  Abraham Lincoln's Birthday,George Washington's Birthday, St. Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Arbor Day, Easter, April Fool's Day, Mother's Day  Memorial, Day, Flag Day, Father's Day, Independence Day, Labor Day.”

He paused to take a breath. “Labor Day, Columbus Day, Halloween, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas. It boggles the mind... and oh yes, lest I forget this Mardi Gras. These holidays all reek of nothing but attempts by capitalistic greeting card companies and retail shops to bilk the people of their hard earned kopeks...umm, I meant money.”

"Are you finished?" Solo looked at him with amazement."Okya, I get the picture," he added, stopping his partner from going on ad nauseum."You know you can really be a party pooper sometimes."

“I am sure I could recall more if you like,” he grinned at the American, knowing full well he was annoying him just a little. “

“That’s not exactly the over-indulgence I had in mind," Napoleon mumbled.