Page:The Curious Republic of Gondour, and Other Whimsical Sketches.djvu/152



Byron made a poor business of it, and could not think of anything to say, at the last moment but, “Augusta-sister-Lady Byron—tell Harriet Beecher Stowe”—etc., etc.,—but Shakespeare was ready and said, “England expects every man to do his duty!” and went off with splendid eclat.

And there are other instances of sagacious preparation for a felicitous closing remark. For instance:

Joan of Arc said, “Tramp, tramp, tramp the boys are marching.”

Alexander the Great said, “Another of those Santa Cruz punches, if you please.”

The Empress Josephine said, “Not for Jo—” and could get no further.

Cleopatra said, “The Old Guard dies, but never surrenders.”

Sir Walter Raleigh said, “Executioner, can I take your whetstone a moment, please?” though what for is not clear.

John Smith said, “Alas, I am the last of my race.”