No Relation
After one of the victorious battles of the seven years’ war, Frederick the Great gave orders that a young cornet, whose bravery he had had occasion to witness himself, be brought to him.
“What is your name?” the monarch asked the young man.
“Von Stira Stora Stazarneda, your Majesty,” was the answer.
“What, sir,” cried the King, indignant at a name so hard to remember, “why, the devil isn’t called that!”
“He is no relative of mine, either, your Majesty,” was the impudent cornet’s prompt answer.
The King smiled, and said:
“I am very glad to hear it, Lieutenant von Stira Stora Stazarneda,” and with a wave of his hand, dismissed him.