In this grim season, I came across a story that got me to laugh out loud.  If it elicits a chuckle or even a smile from you, it will be worth the time it will take me to tell it.

The British politician Benjamin Disraeli (Primer Minister in 1868 and again from 1874 to 1880) was a dinner guest at a private home where the food was far below his standard.  He suffered through one tasteless course after another, waiting for the evening to end so that he could return home to something worth eating.  He thought the moment had come when his hostess stood up.  He stood as well.  When she realized that he was planning to leave the table, she told him that the meal was not yet complete.  In this house, they always served champagne to signal the end of the evening.  As Disraeli sank into his chair, he said, “Something warm at last.”

— Gerry Bresslour