The British have such a command of decorum and aplomb to which others can only aspire.

His Lordship was in the study when the butler approached and coughed discreetly.


"May I ask you a question, My Lord?"


"Go ahead, Carson," said His Lordship.


"I am doing the crossword in The Times and found a word the exact meaning of which I am not too certain."


"What word is that?" asked His Lordship.


"Aplomb," My Lord.


"Now that's a difficult one to explain. I would say it is