Civilization doesn't take anything from a man's courage and tenacity.

Rather it adds to them.

There are our enemies, the French, who are as brave and enduring as anybody, and yet they're the best cooks in the world, and more particular about their food than any other nation." "You always speak of the French with a kind of affection, Dave," said Robert.
"I suppose I do," said the hunter.

"I have reasons." "As I know now, Dave, you've been in Paris, can't you tell us something about the city ?" "It's the finest town in the world, Robert, and they've the brightest, gayest life there, at least a part of 'em have, but things are not going right at home with the French.

They say a whole nation's fortune has been sunk in the palace at Versailles, and the people are growing poorer all the time, but the government hopes to dazzle 'em by waging a successful and brilliant war over here.