THE DEVIL'S DICTIONARY

The Devil's Dictionary_ was begun in a weekly paper in 1881, and was continued in a desultory way at long intervals until 1906. A ABASEMENT, n. A decent and customary mental attitude in the presence of wealth of power. Peculiarly appropriate in an employee when addressing an employer. ABATIS, n. Rubbish in front of a fort, to prevent the rubbish outside from molesting the rubbish inside. FORGETFULNESS, n. A gift of God bestowed upon doctors in compensation for their destitution of conscience. FRIENDLESS, adj. Having no favors to bestow. Destitute of fortune. Addicted to utterance of truth and common sense. HAPPINESS, n. An agreeable sensation arising from contemplating the misery of another. HARANGUE, n. A speech by an opponent, who is known as an harrangue- outang.