Drunk and Ugly
What is the truth or falsehood of the famous exchange between Churchill and a woman (Nancy Astor?) who accused him of being drunk? Did it really take place? —J.M.
Bessie Braddock MP (Lab., Liverpool)It’s true, but the lady was Bessie Braddock MP, and Churchill’s retort was not strictly original. From my book, Churchill by Himself, page 573:
Bessie Braddock MP: “Winston, you are drunk, and what’s more you are disgustingly drunk.”
WSC: Bessie, my dear, you are ugly, and what’s more, you are disgustingly ugly. But tomorrow I shall be sober and you will still be disgustingly ugly.…