[ Describing Clement Attlee :] A sheep in sheep’s clothing.

[ Of Bernard Montgomery :] In defeat unbeatable: in victory unbearable.

[ Of Clement Attlee :] A modest man who has a good deal to be modest about.

[ Of Ramsey MacDonald :] I remember, when I was a child, being taken to the celebrated Barnum’s circus, which contained an exhibition of freaks and monstrosities, but the exhibit on the program which I most desired to see was the one described as “The Boneless Wonder.” My parents judged that the spectacle would be too revolting and demoralizing for my youthful eyes, and I have waited 50 years to see the boneless wonder sitting on the Treasury Bench.

[ On his portrait, painted by Graham Sutherland :] I look as if I was having a difficult stool.

[ Replying to Nancy Astor’s saying “If I were your wife I would put poison in your coffee!” :] And if I were your husband I would drink it.

[ Responding to criticism that he edited the British Gazette in a biased manner during the General Strike :] I decline utterly to be impartial as between the fire brigade and the fire.

[ To Anthony Eden about a long report from the latter :] As far as I can see you have used every cliché except “God is Love” and “Please adjust your dress before leaving.”