2. John Wilkes (18th Century) - "Naturally, And If Your Friend Decides Against Standing, Can I Count On Your Vote?"
Another 18th-Century British politician known for his wit and smart remarks, John Wilkes came out with a brilliant response while he was out on the campaign trail. A constituent in Middlesex walked up to Wilkes and shouted: "I'd rather vote for the Devil than you." Renowned for his snappy responses to insults, Wilkes turned and calmly stated:
"Naturally - and if your friend decides against standing, can I count on your vote?"
Wilkes' brilliant response in calling the Devil his constituent's friend defused the situation, and was just one example of his brilliant wit. Possibly the most-famous occasion occurred during a heated argument with his political rival, John Montagu, the Earl of Sandwich, though. Montagu derisively told Wilkes: "Upon my soul, Wilkes, I don't know whether you'll die upon the gallows, or of syphilis." Offering up another instant but brilliant retort, Wilkes replied: "That will depend, my Lord, on whether I embrace your principles - or your mistress." Sheer, unadulterated genius.
NUFC editor for WhatCulture.com/NUFC. History graduate (University of Edinburgh) and NCTJ-trained journalist. I love sports, hopelessly following Newcastle United and Newcastle Falcons. My pastimes include watching and attending sports matches religiously, reading spy books and sampling ales.
