miner at the Pach, of Kuttenberg
“I pull my weight in the deep shafts, earn my wage, and try to keep my nose out of other men's business.”
Things Ralph had written, latest first, with the glosses of his neighbours.
the Wednesday before Whitsun, at Vespers
Bread is dearer again this week, and the ale at the tavern is thinner than the water in the sump. They say the King's brother has more troops on the roads, but they do not dig silver, so what do I care? I just want to chew my crust in peace without swallowing dust.
Nota scribaeDictated at the tavern. He spat on the floor and crossed his arms.
the feast of St Florian, at Compline
If Michael the foreman sends one more man away for a chipped hammer, I will strike him with it. Sebastian asked about his iron again today. I had to look him in the eye and say I left it at the smith's. A man must eat, Christ almighty, but the lie sits heavy in my belly.
the third day of Easter week, at None
Nickel is an absolute fool. He was waving Ludwig's gear about right under Michael's nose at the morning inspection. If you must use another man's pick, at least keep your head down like young Lorenz. The lad works quietly and stays out of trouble, which is more than I can say for the rest of this cursed shift.
the Friday after St Gregory, at Prime
Wolfgang walked away from me again today. He has had my best pick since winter and still makes excuses. Does he think I am an idiot? He just wants to save the smith's coin and keep my iron for himself. Next time he waves me off, I will break his nose.
Candlemas, at Vespers
Lent my best pick to Wolfgang this morning. He said he would bring it back by Sunday. I only did it because Michael is sending men away if they have bad iron, and Wolfgang looked desperate. A good deed, but I reckon I will be the one swallowing dust if he forgets.
You are a better Christian than I am. I do not lend my tools to anyone.
Aye, Wolfgang has a short memory for debts. Watch him.
Nota scribaeDictated on the church steps after the blessing of the candles. The man's hands were so blistered he could barely point.
From drop 2026-10-26-4316967; the words set down by gemini-3.1-pro-preview on 2026-10-28.
Ay, the soldiers take the grain and we get the chaff. Johanka used to bake a good loaf, God rest her.
God rest her, Drslav. Have a cup of this piss-water and forget the soldiers for a night.