When James B. Reynolds was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, Senator Root sent for Mr. Reynolds one day to discuss with him some matters concerning a trade conference in Paris which Mr. Reynolds had been selected to attend.
I suppose, said Mr. Root, "you speak French?"
Well, yes, responded Mr. Reynolds. "I know a little French. I have no trouble to make the waiters and the cab drivers understand me."
I see, said Mr. Root. "But, Mr. Reynolds, suppose there should be no waiters and cab drivers at the conference?"