“Oh, Madam Chairman,” put in a member, “I’m sure I do not wish to be unkind, but this is really a very important matter where decision is needed and prompt action. Don’t you think you should substitute someone else for dear Miss Henrietta—she’s so wishy-washy!”
The presiding officer’s retort was instantaneously delivered:
“The person in question may be wishy,” she said, “but the Lord in Heaven knows she is not washy!”
§ 215 The Embarrassing Broad A
A Chicago man visiting in London was invited to a ball where everybody except himself talked with an exceedingly broad a, as people will do in England—and Boston, Mass. The accent was puzzling to his Chicago ears but he did his best.
He danced with the wife of his host. The lady spoke with an especially broad accent; also she ran somewhat to flesh. When they had finished the round of the floor she was panting in a repressed and well-bred way.
“Shall we try another whirl?” inquired the Chicago man.
“Not now,” she said; “I’m darnced out.”
“Oh, no,” said the Chicago man, “not darn stout—just nice and plump, ma’am.”