Wednesday, February 15, 2006

Via my good friend Patrick:

Your mention of Western Union no longer telegraphing, combined with this first-night stuff, brought to mind one of the filthiest telegrams ever sent. Quoting now, from the book Viva Le Repartee:

When Bette Davis, one of the objects of Tallulah Bankhead's affection, was about to opena a new play, Bankhead sent her one of the most suggestive telegrams of all time. Since Western Union prohibited profanity or graphic language, the message had to be worded in such a way that it would get past the telegraph operator, but be perfectly clear to the recipient. The telegram read:

KISSES ON YOUR OPENING.

Heh.

4:36 PM

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