During a conversation with a young lady Mark Twain had occasion to mention the word drydock.
“What is a drydock, Mr. Clemens?” she asked.
“A thirsty physician,” replied the humorist.
Some officer had disobeyed or failed to comprehend an order. “I believe I’ll sit down,” said Secretary Stanton, “and give that man a piece of my mind.”
“Do so,” said Lincoln, “write him now while you have it on your mind. Make it sharp. Cut him all up.” Stanton did not need a second invitation. It was a bone crusher that he read to the President.
“That’s right,” said Lincoln; “that’s a good one.”
“Whom can I send it by?” mused the Secretary.
“Send it!” replied Lincoln. “Why, don’t send it at all. Tear it up. You have freed your mind on the subject, and that is all that is necessary. Tear it up. You never want to send such letters, I never do.”