... passed me the transcript of a conversation between an unnamed UK media consultant and spin-doctor, and an internationally famous financier who's not been getting too good a press lately. I cannot vouch for its authenticity, but make it available, for what it's worth, in the public interest :
"Sir, what can I do to salvage my reputation with the liberal classes ? A bit of fun - I swear she consented - and the Guardian have published 348 articles attacking me! Even after charges are dropped they're still at it, with innuendo about class justice and the rich getting the pleasure while the poor get the blame.
It's getting my wife down - and it's doing my reputation as a Socialist no good either. Some people just don't understand the concept of 'from each according to her abilities, to one according to his needs!'"
"It's 351 articles, actually - another three this morning. Now I can help you - but you may not like what I'm going to suggest."
"Please speak - I will be forever in your debt"
"Unlikely, even with my fees. You want to continue your amours, your peccadillos, your ... er ... bunga-bunga - with whoever takes your fancy and whenever ?"
"Mais oui !"
"Even when the object of your desires is ... shall we say ... a little backward in her response to ... your ardent advances ?"
"We understand each other, m'sieu"
"And you want the Guardian to look steadfastly in the other direction and write nothing, perhaps with the occasional piece accusing your critics of being motivated by racism ?"
"As you say in your country, m'sieu - that will do nicely"
"If you can follow my advice you will never be troubled by the Guardian again. You will be able to do what you like, to whom you like, and they will write nothing. But the course I suggest involves, for you, great personal sacrifice."
"What is it, man - for pity's sake tell me what I should do !"
"You must change your name to something like Youssiff Ibrahim, and move to Greater Manchester"
"Mon Dieu !"
