<t-f-i> An officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve was attending a
conference that included admirals from both the U.S. Navy and
the French Navy. At a cocktail reception, he found himself in
a small group that included personnel from both navies.
<t-f-i> The French Admiral started complaining that whereas
Europeans learned many languages, Americans learned only
English. He then asked, "Why is it that we have to speak
English in these conferences rather than you speak French?"
<t-f-i> Without hesitating, the American Admiral replied:
"Maybe it is because the Brits, Canadians, Aussies, and
Americans arranged it so you would not have to speak German."
The group became silent.
