Irish Imprudence
IN the year 1797, when democratic notions ran high, the king's coach was
attacked as his majesty was going to the House of Peers. A gigantic
Hibernian, who was conspicuously loyal in repelling the mob, attracted
the attention of the king. Not long after, the Irishman received a
message from Mr. Dundas to attend at his office. He went, and met with a
gracious reception from the great man, who praised his loyalty and
courage, and desired him to point out any way in which he would wish to
be advanced, his majesty being desirous to reward him. Pat hesitated a
moment, and then smirkingly said, I'll tell you what, mister, make a
Scotchman of me, and, by St. Patrick, there'll be no fear of my
gettin' on. The minister, dumfounded for the moment by the
mal-apropos hit, replied, Make a Scotchman of you, sir! that's
impossible, for I can't give you prudence.