Letter: Diplomatic reply
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Diplomatic reply
Sir: May I thank Merrick Baker-Bates (letter, 19 June), who added to the sum of my knowledge in properly attributing my quotation about an ambassador being "sent to lie abroad for the good of his country" to Henry Wotton? I had previously assumed that it was from Benjamin Franklin, who I believe also had an eye for a pretty face and a well-turned ankle, appropriately to the double entendre.
I trust however, that Mr Baker-Bates is not arguing with Peter Ustinov: "A diplomat these days is nothing but a head-waiter who's allowed to sit down occasionally." I doubt his own distinguished service in Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur and Los Angeles supported that contention.
DAVID DAVIS MP
(Haltemprice and Howden, C)
House of Commons
London SW1
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments