The Unchanged Diplomatist

THE republic of Madagonia had been long and well represented at the
court of the King of Patagascar by an officer called a Dazie, but
one day the Madagonian Parliament conferred upon him the superior
rank of Dandee.  The next day after being apprised¹ of his new
dignity he hastened to inform the King of Patagascar.

  "Ah, yes, I understand," said the King; "you have been promoted and
given increased pay and allowances.  There was an appropriation²?"

  "Yes, your Majesty³."

  "And you have now two heads, have you not?"

  "Oh, no, your Majesty - only one, I assure you."

  "Indeed?  And how many legs and arms?"

  "Two of each, Sire - only two of each."

  "And only one body?"

  "Just a single body, as you perceive."

  Thoughtfully removing his crown and scratching the royal head, the
monarch⁴ was silent a moment, and then he said:

  "I fancy that appropriation has been misapplied.  You seem to be
about the same kind of idiot that you were before."