The Divided Delegation

  A DELEGATION¹ at Washington went to a New President, and said:

  "Your Excellency, we are unable to agree upon a Favourite Son to
represent us in your Cabinet."

  "Then," said the New President, "I shall have to lock you up until
you do agree."

  So the Delegation was cast into the deepest dungeon² beneath the
moat, where it maintained a divided mind for many weeks, but
finally reconciled its differences and asked to be taken before the
New President.

  "My child," said he, "nothing is so beautiful as harmony.  My
Cabinet Selections were all made before our former interview, but
you have supplied a noble instance of patriotism³ in subordinating
your personal preferences to the general good.  Go now to your
beautiful homes and be happy."

  It is not recorded that the Delegation was happy.