Sunday 8 February 2009

Diplomatic humour

In 1960 a book was published containing 53 photos of Peter Ustinov masquerading as assorted diplomats addressing the UN. Here are some of them from the section called A Small Joke...

UNITED STATES
"In the immortal words of Millard Fillmore..."





FRANCE
"...her waist was extremely narrow—but I digress..."




GERMANY
"The story I have told you is full of humour. When I have finished laughing at it, I will explain it point by point.




CHINA
"From childhood was taught wisdom of veiling emotions. Western delegations think I content. Only secretary read my fury and shake like autumn tealeaf."


UNITED KINGDOM
"In this connection, an anecdote springs somewhat laboriously to mind..."



RUSSIA
"A joke seems in order..."






Thanks to Grumio for giving me a copy.

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