Without Intent
Lord Russell, the English ambassador at the German court, called one day on Prince Bismarck at the palace of the latter, in Berlin. During conversation, Lord Russell remarked, that a man in the Chancellor’s position must be bothered with a great many troublesome callers.
“God knows how true that is,” sighed the Prince.
“But you certainly have some remedy or other to get rid of such people quickly?”
“Oh certainly,” laughed Bismarck, “one of my best is, that my wife comes in to call me away on some pretext or other. Of course the caller can’t remain after that.”
These words were hardly uttered, when the Princess entered, and said in the most harmless way: “Otto, it is time to take your medicine; do not forget it.”
Lord Russell broke into a ringing laugh and took his leave at once.