HIS READY WIT

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXVI, Issue 3, 30 January 1908, Page 38

HIS READY WIT

A non-commissioned officer, entering a barrack gate in Dublin, was mistaken by the ' fresh one ' on sentry go, who immediately saluted him. The non-commission-ed officer, unaware that his colonel was just behind, returned the salute, a thing not permissible under the circumstances. Arrived at his quarters, he was surprised to find an order for him to attend before the Colonel. On presenting himself he was asked how he came to return the salute, knowing full well he was not entitled 1 to it. Not in the least embarrassed, he promptly answered, ' Sir, I always return everything I am not entitled to.' - The colonel, taken aback by his ready wit, laughingly dismissed him.