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Patea Mail, 15 February 1881, Page 3

A Chinese gentleman thinks it beneath his dignity to manufacture his own witticisms. He appreciates wit, and he is fond of tea, but he would as soon grow his own tea as makes his own jokes. When he goes into society he carries in his pocket a package of prepared witticisms and repartees, which he has purchased at the joke shop. When conversation flags; and he perceives an opportunity for saying something brilliant, he draws a humerous remark from the top of his package and gravely hands it to his neighbour. The latter as gravely reads it, and, selecting from his bundle of repartees the one which is appropriate, returns it with a bow to the original joker. The two then solemnly smile in a courteous and undemonstrative way, and resume their conversation, satisfied as to their having acquitted themselves with conspicious brilliancy.