Better a pawn than a king, I say. Opportunities for advancement, for one. [Usually a few left when the game ends, too, even on the losing side.

He shrugs at the mention of the wine, swirls his empty glass around in his hand.]

Too heavy for my tastes. It might be poor manners to complain, but I prefer mine to go down easy. [There's that gag again. Everything here is laid on far too thick. He might be harping on it overmuch, but it rings true.]

Careful not to have too much. You risk losing your golden tongue.