It is satisfying for the descendant of a dissident refugee from Elizabeth I to present his credentials to Elizabeth II.

If I take refuge in ambiguity, I assure you that it's quite conscious.

I'm very curious to know what the hell they're saying on the phone, but I'd be more worried if they weren't talking.

The function of a briefing paper is to prevent the ambassador from saying something dreadfully indiscreet. I sometimes think its true object is to prevent the ambassador from saying anything at all.

Maybe you are the "cool" generation If coolness means a capacity to stay calm and use your head in the service of ends passionately believed in, then it has my admiration.

There is no greater challenge than to have someone relying upon you; no greater satisfaction than to vindicate his expectation.