Language

Shortly after President Truman’s death, a panel of veteran journalists appeared on television to reminisce on his life and times. One reporter recalled an incident wherein President and Mrs. Truman were being escorted by a friend on a tour of a flower and garden exhibit in Washington. As the party stopped to admire a particularly beautiful display, Mrs. Truman exclaimed, “I wonder how they grow such gorgeous flowers?” “It’s the manure,” said the President. Hearing this, the friend whispered into Mrs. Truman’s ear: “Can’t you persuade him to say ‘fertilizer’?” “I’m afraid not,” replied Mrs. Truman, “It took me fifteen years to get him to say ‘manure’.”